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Fallen Eagles O - Z

flagDon Obar
April 25, 1940 to January 5, 2003



Donald Obar, 62, died Sunday, Jan 5, 2003 in a local hospital.

Born in Jacksonville, Texas on April 25, 1940, to Marion Obar and Ernestine Searcy Obar.  Don was raised and attended school in Abilene. After he got out of school he joined the U.S. Army and served in Germany. He returned to Abilene and went to work as a machinist and moved to Fort Worth in 1966 and worked there until 1998 when he moved back to Abilene.

He worked in the trucking industry until he retired in 1998.

Survivors include his two daughters; Tammy Obar and Tiffany Obar, both of Fort Worth; his mother, Emetine Obar of Abilene; a sister, Jane Anthony Allison of Fort Worth; a brother, Harold Obar of Grand Prairie; and eight nieces and nephews.

Abilene Reporter News, January 2003

Don was buried at Elmwood Memorial Park.

 

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Lana Ruth ODEN DILLARD
27 Aug 1941 -  25 May 1966
Lukemia

Lana was born in Dallas, Texas on 27 Aug 1941 to  Hillman Dilbert and Annie Louise Hague Oden.  After she graduated from Abilene High in 1959, she married Ray Dillard and the young couple lived in Levelland, Texas where she died on 25 May 1966. Lana had been diagnosed  about 16 months, before her death, with Acute Lymphatic Leukemia.   She was buried in the Levelland Municipal Cemetery, Levelland, Texas.

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flag James Harrison Parramore, III
Sep. 22, 1941 - Dec. 20, 2014

James Harrison Parramore, of Canyon, Texas, died on Saturday, December 20, 2014, in Amarillo. He was 73. A graveside service and burial will take place today, December 23, at 3 pm in Elmwood Memorial Park in Abilene, Texas. 

James Harrison Parramore III was born September 22, 1941 in Abilene, Texas. He was named after Col. James Harrison Parramore. James graduated from Abilene High School in 1959, and attended McMurry College in Abilene, earning a Bachelor of Arts degree.

After college, James served in the US Air Force. Following his tour of duty he received an honorable discharge from the military and moved to the Amarillo area, where he resided until his death. He was an active member of the community. He volunteered as an election judge and for a time was the treasurer of the Randall County Republican Party. James also was a member of the Range Riders of Amarillo, the Panhandle Producers Royalty Owners Association (PPROA) and First Baptist Church of Canyon, Texas.

James was the son of Norwood Dilworth Parramore and Frances Weems Parramore, who preceded him in death. 

He is survived by his sister Virginia Parramore Thinnes of Abilene; his nephew Billy Thinnes of Houston; his nephew Mark Thinnes of Ft. Worth; and his longtime dear friend Carolyn Lutes of Canyon. 

James was a firm believer in the work of the following charities, and would encourage donations to them or a charity of your choice in lieu of flowers: Salvation Army, 1726 Butternut, Abilene, TX 79602, and Rescue the Animals, SPCA, 4620 North 1st Street, Abilene, TX 79603. 

 

Abilene Reporter-News

Burial: Elmwood Memorial Park
 

flagJimmy Dean Parsons
October 30, 1940 to December 9, 2014

Jimmy Dean Parsons, 74, of Baytown, passed away peacefully at home on Tuesday, December 9, 2014. He was born October 30, 1940, in Abilene, Texas, to his late parents, Lawrence Parsons and Earline Montgomery Parsons, and had lived in Baytown since 1972.

After graduating from Abilene High School and Abilene Christian College, Jimmy was an award-winning photographer for the Abilene Reporter-News. He served for six years in the United States Air Force, reaching the rank of captain, before moving to the Houston area to work for Houston Lighting & Power Company. Jimmy retired after 30 years in public relations, external relations and government affairs for HL&P and its affiliated companies. He was a past president of the CNP Retired Employees Club and was active in the Abilene High Class of 1959 alumni club. He also loved volunteering at the Houston Public Library's Houston Metropolitan Research Center. Jimmy's hobbies included photography, travel, history, sports and music. His greatest enjoyment came from his family and his church family. He was a member of Eastside Church of Christ and had served as a teacher, deacon and elder in the Church of Christ. 

He was preceded in death by his parents and a grandchild, Sydney Leigh Parsons.

Survivors include his wife, Ann Parsons of Baytown; sons, Antony Parsons and his wife, Megan, of Liberty Hill, and Jim Parsons of Houston; grandchildren Abigail Parsons and Joshua Parsons; brother, Percy Parsons and his wife Holly of Abilene; an aunt, Doris Sherk of San Diego, California; his beloved cat, Finn and numerous relatives and friends. 

 The family will receive friends from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Thursday, December 11, 2014, at Navarre Funeral Home. Services will be held at 10:00 a.m. Friday, December 12, 2014, at the funeral home with Mr. Marc Hinds and Mr. Zeke Flores officiating. 

A graveside service will be held at 3:00 p.m., Friday, December 12, 2014, at Hopewell Cemetery in Normangee. Arrangements are under the direction of Navarre Funeral Home & Cremation Services, 2444 Rollingbrook Drive, Baytown, Texas 77521, (281) 422-8111. 

 

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flagJohn Jackson "Jack" Pattillo
March 13, 1941 to February 23, 1999

EL PASO - John Jackson "Jack" Pattillo, 57, died February 23, 1999, in El Paso. Services were at Episcopal Church of the Heavenly Rest in Abilene with the Rev Scott Mayer officiating, directed by Mission Funeral Home.

Mr. Pattillo was born in Abilene and graduated from Texas Military Institute in 1959. He attended the University of Texas and Hardin-Simmons University. He was a Navy veteran and worked for Texas Instruments in Dallas and Australia.

Survivors include one daughter, Leslie Morgan of Dusseldorf, Germany; one son, Scott Palmer of Plano; two sisters, Patricia Jennings of El Paso and Peggy Beckham of Abilene; and several nieces and nephews.

Memorials may be made to the donor's favorite charity.

 

Abilene Reporter-News

 

Saundra Peay Green
July 3, 1941 to May 19, 1985

Saundra Leigh Peay Green, 43, of Corpus Christi died Tuesday in a local hospital after a short illness.

She was a native of Abilene, Texas, and a resident of Corpus Christi for past 17 years moving here from Atlanta, Georgia. She was a school teacher for 14 years with C.C.I.S.D., teaching at Kostoryz Elementary and Yeager Elementary. She was a graduate of Texas Tech University with a Bachelors of Arts Degree and from Corpus Christi State University with a Masters degree,

She is survived by her husband, Larry Green; one daughter, Miss Kelli Leigh Green, both of Corpus Christi; and her mother, Mrs. Maxine Peay of Abilene, Texas.

Funeral services were conducted Thursday, May 23rd at the Clifford Jackson Funeral Chapel with Rev. Warren Spanutius officiating.

Elliott Hammel Funeral Home at the Hickory Chapel location in Abilene, Texas, was in charge of the final funeral services on Saturday at 2 p.m. on the 25th of May. Internment at the Elmwood Memorial Park Cemetery in Abilene, Texas.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the Youth City.

Clifford Jackson Funeral Home, Kostoryz Road.

 
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William Don Phillips
July 9, 1939 to April 28, 1991
 

W. Don Phillips, a corrections officer, died April 28, 1991 at a Fort Worth hospital. He was 51.

Graveside service were at Shannon Rose Hill Memorial Park.

Mr. Phillips was born in Potosi and lived in Fort Worth from 1959 to 1982, when he moved to Albuquerque, N.M. He returned to Fort Worth in 1990.

Mr. Phillips worked for the City-County Jail System in New Mexico.

Survivors: Wife, Shirley Phillips of Fort Worth; two sons, Gary Johnson and Keith Brown, both of Antlers, Okla.; two daughters, Rhonda Swimmer of Tahlequah, Okla., and Melissa Nowakowshi of Albuquerque; brother, Charles Grady Phillips of Hollywood, Fla.; six sisters, Christine Martin of Fort Worth, Irene Bell of Melissa, Hazel Bulinoff of Mojave, Calif., Martha Chandler and Rita Scales, both of Abilene, and Gloria Phillips of Houston; and 10 grandchildren.

Fort Worth Star-Telegram (TX), April 30, 1991

 

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flagTommie Wayne Polk
August 12, 1940 to September 2, 2000
Cancer


Tommie was born the eighth child to Clifton and Mamie 
Rushing Polk in Sweetwater, Nolan County, August 12, 1940.

Tommie graduated with our class and was a Junior Class Who's Who in the AHS 1958 Flashlight. He served as a PFC in the US Army and went on to marry Carolyn Janet King. They had two children, Janet Carol in 1969 in Taylor County and Kelly Diane in 1973 in Dallas County.

Tommie is survived by two sisters, Doris Allen and Phyllis Polk, of Abilene, and one brother, Kim T. Polk of Denton. He was preceded in death by siblings Virgil Polk, Jim Polk, T. Kyle Polk, and Dorothy B. Polk Todd.

He died in Denton, Texas of a rare form of cancer (note: Tommie's father' Cause of Death was Bronchogenic carcinoma which could have been related) on September 2, 2000, and is interred at Roselawn Memorial Park, 3801 Roselawn, Denton, TX 76205. 


 

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flagLloyd Martin Presswood
August 11, 1941 to June 23, 2020
Cause unknown.


Abilene - Lloyd Martin Presswood passed away peacefully in his home on June 23rd, 2020. His final days were spent surrounded by his family and friends. A graveside service to celebrate Lloyd's life will be held at 10:00 am on Friday June 26th at the Round Mound Cemetery on FM 1082 in Jones County. Those in attendance are encouraged to wear masks and observe social distancing. Viewing will be available from 1-6 pm on Thursday at Piersall Funeral Directors, 733 Butternut St.

Lloyd was born to Lloyd and Reta Presswood on August 11, 1941 at Hendrick Hospital in Abilene, Texas. He was baptized at University Baptist Church at the age of 12. Lloyd was a graduate of Abilene High School and attended Cisco Junior College. In 1963, he was drafted and served two years in the United States Army. On December 23, 1965 he married Carolyn (Katy) Presswood. Their only daughter, Sara, was born in 1978.

Lloyd graduated from Abilene Christian College with a degree in Animal Husbandry/Agriculture. He worked for ACCO Feeds for 20 years before farming and raising cattle full time. Lloyd especially loved combining.

Lloyd and Katy have attended Westminster Presbyterian Church for many years where they have been surrounded by friends. He enjoyed traveling, listening to Willie and anything else that the girls in his family wanted him to enjoy. He was the best dad and husband ever.

Lloyd was preceded in death by his parent, Lloyd and Reta Presswood; his sister, Joyce Lynn Presswood Smith; and his brother, Rex Presswood.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 54 years, Katy and their daughter, Sara Presswood Cook, Sara's husband, Joe, and their daughter, Claire. Lloyd is also survived by many members of a large extended family, all of whom he loved dearly.

The family wishes to thank David Griffith, Lance Johnson, Trey Walker, Gary Richardson, and Lanny Vinson for getting that last wheat crop harvested. Thanks also to the Amarillo Street Neighborhood and to Hendrick Hospice Care for the many acts of kindness.

Memorial donations may be made to Meals on Wheels or the charity of your choice. Condolences may be offered to the family online at www.pbfuneraldirectors.com.

 



Lloyd Martin Presswood

flagDavid O. Rix
January 28, 1941 - April 8, 2020
Complications of Alzheimer’s

 

David O. Rix was born 28 January 1941 in Siloam Springs, Arkansas to F. Averyt and Dorothy H. (Dewees) Rix. He departed this earthly life 8 April 2020 to be with our Lord.

The Rix family moved to Denison, Texas about six months later when his father went to serve in WWII. At the end of the war he returned to Texas, and the family moved to San Angelo, Texas. David always said he lived there during his “barefoot” days. He remembered his dad preaching for the Spanish Church of Christ in a small town south of San Angelo; David would sit in a front row pew and dangle his feet. The family then moved to Abilene, where David attended Lincoln Junior High and graduated from Abilene High School in 1959.

On 4 September 1961, David and Cheri L. Lewis were married in Raymondville, Texas at the home of her parents, with David’s father officiating. (David thought he had it made getting married on Labor Day that year not thinking ahead that Labor Day date changes each year.) They immediately went back to Abilene, Texas where David was attending Abilene Christian College. He graduated in 1963, and they moved to Dallas. David taught at Pleasant Grove Christian School for two years, and then decided to enter the ministry. He was the minister for the Churches of Christ in Hubbard, Waco, Panhandle, and Electra. During his time at Southside Church of Christ in Electra, one of the men in the congregation, Keith Wilson, recorded his sermons and sent them to nine different locations in Ghana, West Africa. This was a surprise for David, but also a reminder that we never know where or who we are influencing. It was very humbling for him. David also preached as a volunteer at Central Church of Christ (1988-2001) in Burkburnett. He preached on Sunday mornings and other men in the congregation had the evening services.

In 1974, he returned to teaching school in Burkburnett. After spending one year in the classroom, he became the high school tennis coach. He coached for 14 years before becoming a counselor. Region 9 Education Service Center was his final “working” job. He retired in May 2002, but continued part time for one more year.

David served in many other capacities. He was Burkburnett TSTA president, Editor of a Tennis Newsletter (state), a volunteer ambulance driver in Panhandle, and President of the Electra Rotary Club. He also served as a volunteer Prison Chaplain at the James V. Allred Unit for 16 years. The family lived in Burkburnett for 30 years (1974-2005) after which David and Cheri moved to Wichita Falls, Texas.

David and Cheri were blessed with two children, one son-in-law, and two grandchildren. Children: Xan Rae Kahn (Timothy) and Brad Alan Rix. Grandchildren: Kaylee Rae Kahn and Ty James Kahn. David is survived by all plus nieces, nephews, cousins, and his church family.

A private service for family members was held Saturday afternoon at (his burial site at) Rosemont Cemetery in Wichita Falls.

The family of David wishes to thank the wonderful care and support we received from the House of Hope. If you wish to send a memorial, please consider the Alzheimer’s Association (Alz.org) or World Bible School (worldbibleschool.net).

Condolences may be sent to the family at www.lunnscolonial.com
Published in The Times Record News on Apr. 11, 2020


 



David O. Rix 1941 - 2020

Kenneth Robbins

Note: Kenneth Gary Robbins was living as of 14 Mar 2007 in Baird, Texas and no evidence has been found of his death as of Jan. 1, 2020.

 

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Sandra Gayle Rodgers Moody
Feb. 14 1941 - March 4, 2002


Sandra was born to Hayward Edward Rodgers and Suzie Dell Bailey on Feb. 14 1941 in Parker County, Texas.  She died in Deer Park, Texas, on March 4, 2002.

She would have graduated with the AHS class of 1959 but she married Ronny Moody on Nov. 27, 1958 and moved to Pasadena, Texas where she graduated from Pasadena High School - so she still was an Eagle.

Sandra married Ronny Moody (AHS '58), the brother of Polly Ann Moody Rutherford (AHS '59). Sandra worked for a family clinic in Deer Park from 1973 until she had a stroke and was in ICU 2 months.  She was buried in La Porte Cemetery, La Porte, TX.
 
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Beverly Ross
October 1, 1993
Long-term illness

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Gerald Satterwhite
March 11, 1941 to April 1, 1976
Cancer


Gerald was in Paris, writing a book in French on a French composer. He developed severe headaches and was told by his doctor that he had an inoperable brain tumor. He returned to New York prior to his death.
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Royce Joseph Sanders Jr.
October 24, 1939 to June 11, 2006


SEDALIA, MO - Royce J. Sanders Jr., 66, of Sedalia, formerly of Arvada, Colorado, died Sunday, June 11, 2006, at Bothwell Regional Health Center.

He was born October 24, 1939 in Abilene, Texas, the son of Royce J. Sr. and Annie B. Pounds Sanders. On April 10, 1979 he was married to Linda Diane Russell, who survives of the home.

Mr. Sanders was raised and educated in Abilene, Texas. He attended Locust Elementary, South Junior Middle School and Abilene High School. He enjoyed fishing, art, cooking and grilling. He enjoyed watching football and spending time with his family and friends.

Also surviving are his mother, Annie B. Sanders, of Abilene, Texas; his mother-in-law, Mary Sue Russell, of Sedalia; a brother, Bruce E. Sanders, of Abilene, Texas; two sisters, Celia Gardner and her husband Tommy, of Laporte, Texas and Gladys Spigner and her husband Ray, of Prattville, Alabama; and several nieces and nephews.

The body was cremated. There will be no services. His ashes will be scattered at a later date.

The family suggests memorial contributions be made to The Children's Therapy Center, or the West Texas Rehabilitation Center in Abilene, Texas, in care of McLaughlin Funeral Chapel.

Arrangements under the direction of MCLAUGHLIN FUNERAL CHAPEL / SEDALIA, MISSOURI.

Abilene Reporter-News - June 13, 2006

Note: Royce has a memorial marker at Millers Chapel Cemetery, Sedalia, Pettis Co., MO.
 

Carroll Savage Jr
October 27, 1941 to July 27, 1982
Heart attack


Oklahoma City - Carroll Hall Savage Jr., 40, of Oklahoma City, formerly of Abilene, died after suffering a massive heart attack Tuesday, July 27, 1982, while on vacation in Tulsa. Services are pending in Oklahoma City.

Born October 27, 1941, he was the son of Mr. and Mrs. Carroll Hall Savage of Abilene. He graduated from Abilene High School in 1959 and married Janice Schmidt of Abilene in August, 1960. He was district manager for the M & M/Mars Candy Co. Inc. in Oklahoma City. He had lived in Oklahoma City the past 10 years.

Survivors include his wife; a daughter, Pam of the home; a son, Scott of the home; his mother, Mary Kate Savage of Abilene; his grandmother, Mrs. Ethel Gainey of Abilene; and a sister, Kay Griffith of Plano.

He was preceded in death by his father.

The family requests remembrances be made to the West Texas Rehabilitation Center or to a favorite charity.

 
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Charles Davis Scarborough
May 12, 1941 to November 22, 1995


Oklahoma City - Carroll Hall Savage Jr., 40, of Oklahoma City, formerly of Abilene, died after suffering a massive heart attack Tuesday, July 27, 1982, while on vacation in Tulsa. Services are pending in Oklahoma City.

Born October 27, 1941, he was the son of Mr. and Mrs. Carroll Hall Savage of Abilene. He graduated from Abilene High School in 1959 and married Janice Schmidt of Abilene in August, 1960. He was district manager for the M & M/Mars Candy Co. Inc. in Oklahoma City. He had lived in Oklahoma City the past 10 years.

Survivors include his wife; a daughter, Pam of the home; a son, Scott of the home; his mother, Mary Kate Savage of Abilene; his grandmother, Mrs. Ethel Gainey of Abilene; and a sister, Kay Griffith of Plano.

He was preceded in death by his father.

The family requests remembrances be made to the West Texas Rehabilitation Center or to a favorite charity.

 

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Jerry Shackelford
May 12, 1941 to November 22, 1995
 

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Arthur Carrol Shaw
February 5, 1941 to October 26, 2002



LINGLEVILLE -- Arthur "Pete" Carrol Shaw, 61, died Saturday, Oct. 26, 2002. Graveside service: 11 a.m. Tuesday in Lingleville East End Cemetery, Lingleville, Texas.

Memorials: Pittman Foster Home, Stephenville, Texas.

Survivors: Wife, Wanda Gean Shaw, Lingleville; sons, Eugene Carrol Shaw, Grand Prairie and Jacky Wayne Shaw, North Richland Hills; daughter, Tina Ann Reid, Lingleville; mother, Loretta Shaw, Bowie; brothers, Walter, Gregory and Danny J. Shaw, Denison and Harry Shaw, Bowie; and five grandchildren.

Lacy Funeral Home, Stephenville

Fort Worth Star Telegram, October 28, 2002

 
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Murry Steve Short
January 25, 1940 to January, 1981

Death registered in Sonora, Sutton County, Texas.
 
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flagJ. D. Showalter
December 30, 1940 to September 18, 2002
Natural causes ?


Joe Dial ("J.D.") Showalter, Jr. passed away on Wednesday, September 18, 2002, at John C. Freemont Hospital in Mariposa, California.

He was born on December 30, 1940, in Abilene, Texas, and attended Abilene High School.

His sister Maxine LaPierre, his brother L.B. Showalter and his wife Donna, and his longtime companion Laura Perez survive him. Also, he leaves four nieces, Lisa Bloomer, Allison Lau, Camille Fredrickson, the daughters of his brother, and Andrea Crews, the daughter of his sister.

His parents, Joe and Maxine Showalter of Abilene, and his daughter Jaydee Showalter preceded him in death.

He was a veteran of the U.S. Army and was stationed in Germany. Joe and Laura enjoyed life in California for over 20 years. He loved music, played the guitar, liked gardening, and enjoyed working with computer hardware systems. He will be remembered for his adventurous spirit.

Graveside services were held at 2:30 pm on Saturday September 21, 2002, at Elmwood Memorial Park in Abilene, Texas under the direction of Elmwood Funeral Home 5750 Hwy. 277 South Abilene, Texas 79606.

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Dale Lynn Sides
April 20, 1941 - January 8, 2021, Lake Brownwood, Texas
Natural causes ?

 

Obituary

Funeral services for Dale Lynn Sides, 79, of Lake Brownwood will be held Tuesday, January 12, 2021 at Rocky Creek Baptist Church at 2:00 PM. Burial will follow at Rocky Creek Cemetery. Mr. Sides passed away January 8, 2021.

Dale was born April 20, 1941 in Odessa, Texas to Walter and Eunice (Dillard) Sides. He married his high-school sweetheart, Bonnie Bailey June 16, 1961 and they were blessed to have 59 ½ years together. 

Dale had a servant’s heart and a great faith in God, and it showed throughout his life in the many good works he accomplished. He served as a Deacon and Sunday School teacher for many years at Rocky Creek Baptist Church, as well as being a member of Gideon’s International. 

Dale also a Scout Master for 10 years where he helped all three of his sons become Eagle Scouts. Dale was a wonderful husband, father, grandfather and friend. He never hesitated to help anyone in need, no matter how great or small that need was.

Dale leaves behind to cherish his memory his beloved wife, Bonnie; sons Michael Wade Sides and wife Leigh Ann, Robert Wayne Sides and wife Cheryl and Steven Wynn sides and wife Danette; 20 grandchildren, 21 great grandchildren (2 more on the way); brothers Alan, Jerry and Rex Sides; sister-in-law Dorothy Swaringen and brother-in-law Harold Bailey.

Burial at Rocky Creek Cemetery,  Brownwood, Texas.



 

Win Skiles
March 19, 1941 to June 10, 2001
Cancer


DALLAS, June 11, 2001 -- Texas Instruments Incorporated said that Elwin (Win ) L. Skiles, Jr., senior vice president for public affairs, died yesterday after a lengthy battle with cancer. A 24-year TI veteran and member of the company's senior management team, Mr. Skiles, 60, was responsible for TI's government, philanthropic and community activities.

Win preferred to work behind the scenes. But he influenced this company and the communities in which TI operates in deep and meaningful ways, said Tom Engibous, TI chairman, president and chief executive officer. His unwavering commitment to community involvement served as a beacon to all TIers, and the way in which he daily did his job -- with intelligence, humor, grace, and compassion -- provided subtle yet constant lessons from which we all learned. Whether strengthening cultural arts institutions or promoting policies that teach more children how to read, Win's influence is there. He will be terribly missed not only by me and his friends at TI, but among the many government, philanthropic and community organizations where Win so ably represented this company and the principles it stands for.

During the years he led TI's public affairs activities, Mr. Skiles played the lead role in directing TI's involvement in education, economic development and the arts, promoting activities that improved the quality of life of people throughout the community. He served as Vice Chairman of the TI Foundation, a non-profit corporation that supports a variety of education and arts programs. He made a difference, said Dallas Mayor Ron Kirk. Win recognized that his company and his community could only be successful if quality education and economic opportunities were widely available to all, regardless of background or race. With tremendous personal energy and commitment, Win dedicated himself to making that happen.

During his more than 15 years of overseeing TI's government relations activities, Mr. Skiles was involved in helping set and promote TI's position on a range of policy issues, including international trade, public education reform, research and higher education, and minority and women business development. Win was a scholar of government and public policy, and he had tremendous empathy for people, said U.S. Senator Kay Bailey Hutchison of Texas. He was a tireless worker and he made it fun to be involved.

Mr. Skiles recognized the importance of personal community service and was involved in a range of professional, civic and cultural activities. At the time of his death, he served as chairman, president and director of The Dallas City Plan, Inc., which is responsible for facilitating long-term capital improvement projects in the Dallas area. He was on the executive committees of the board of directors of the Greater Dallas Chamber of Commerce, The Dallas Museum of Art, The Dallas Opera, and the Texas Taxpayers and Research Association. He served on the board of directors of Zale Lipshy University Medical Center, Inc., the John Goodwin Tower Center for Political Studies at Southern Methodist University, and the Dallas Council on World Affairs. Mr. Skiles was a member of the Dallas Citizens Council, an associate member of the Dallas Together Forum, and a member of the advisory board of the Greater Dallas Community Relations Commission. He also was a member of the Hardin-Simmons University Board of Development and was a director of the United States Member Committee of The Pacific Basin Economic Council. Previously, he served as a director of the United Way of Metropolitan Dallas, Inc. and as co- chair of the Dallas chapter of the United Way's Alexis de Tocqueville Society.

Mr. Skiles, who earned his JD from the University of Texas at Austin in 1968, joined TI in 1976, after serving as Senator John G. Tower's chief of staff. He also served as counsel on the U.S. Senate Committee on Banking, Housing and Urban Affairs in Washington, D.C., and as an attorney for Hunt Oil Company prior to joining TI. In addition to his law degree, Mr. Skiles earned a master's degree from George Washington University and a bachelor's degree from Baylor University. He was a member of the Texas, District of Columbia and American Bar Associations.

Besides his involvement with corporate giving, Mr. Skiles was a generous donor in his own right, contributing funds to help build the new Elwin L. Skiles Social Sciences Building on the campus of Hardin-Simmons University ( HSU ) in Abilene, Texas. The building will be named for his father, Dr. Elwin L. Skiles, who served as president of the university from 1966 to 1977 and is currently president emeritus. Construction is scheduled to begin within the next year. Win wanted to recognize the impact his father and his mother made on the lives of generations of students. With his generous contribution, another generation of the Skiles family has touched this campus in a direct and lasting way, said Dr. Lanny Hall, HSU chancellor. I hope the students educated in this building will learn to echo Win's zeal for life, learning and politics, and leave their mark on the world in the same gracious way that he did.

Mr. Skiles leaves his family -- father Dr. Elwin L. Skiles of Abilene, sisters Ann McGinty and Sarah Zachry of Houston, five nieces and nephews -- and friends throughout the company, the community and the country too numerous to mention. His mother, Lavonya Ruth Kinder Skiles, preceded him in death.

 

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Marvin Johnny Smith
October 3, 1940 to November 22, 2006



ARLINGTON - Marvin Johnny Smith, 66, a retired chemist, passed away Wednesday, Nov. 22, 2006, in Fort Worth.

Memorial service: private service on Tuesday in Garden of Memories Cemetery, Comanche.

Survivors: Sons, Eric Haga and Marc Haga; and grandchildren, Pierce and Olivia Haga.

Guardian Funeral Home, 5704 James Ave., 817-293-8477

Fort Worth Star-Telegram, November 26, 2006



 
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John Doss STOWE
October 1, 1940 to December 17, 2022



JOHN'S OBITUARY

John Doss Stowe passed from this life on Saturday, December 17, 2022, in Shreveport, Louisiana, at the age of 82.

John was born on October 1, 1940, and raised in Abilene, Texas. He graduated from Abilene High School and attended Texas Tech University where he fell head over heels for the love of his life, Suzanne McCarty. John and Suzanne were married at Heavenly Rest Episcopal Church in Abilene on January 26, 1962.

Episcopal Church in Abilene on January 26, 1962.
John made his living in the concrete industry for nearly 50 years. He started his long career at Gifford Hill in Houston, Texas. Not long after, John accepted a job with Paisano Concrete in El Paso, Texas, where he and Suzanne happily lived and raised their daughters, Laurie Brooke Stowe and Emily Jane Stowe.

In 1982, John acquired Valley Transit Mix of Las Cruces, New Mexico, and ran a successful concrete business for over 20 years. He represented Sika and JDS Concrete Solutions until his death.

John was a true son of Texas. He was larger than life, never met a stranger, and could tell a story like no other. His love of hunting, fishing, and the Lone Star State was only surpassed by his love of family and friends. John’s life was guided by faith, optimism, and an unwavering belief in Christ and the hereafter. He leaves all those who called him husband, brother, dad, Papa John, and cherished friend with a legacy of laughter, joy, and love.

 

He is survived by his wife of over 60 years, Suzanne Stowe, of Shreveport, Louisiana; daughters Laurie Cody and husband Jon, of Las Vegas, NV, and Emily Hyde and husband Danny, of Shreveport, LA; brother Mark Stowe and wife, Karen, of Del Ray Beach, FL; sister-in-law Cindy McCarty of Abilene, TX; and grandchildren Olivia and Isabel Parker; Claire Hyde, and Daniel Hyde and wife Caroline. John was preceded in death by his parents, Skipper and Dorothy Stowe, and brother, Jim Stowe.
 

The funeral service will be officiated by the Reverend David Romanik at 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, January 7, 2023, at the Episcopal Church of the Heavenly Rest in Abilene, Texas. In lieu of flowers, please consider a memorial donation to Heavenly Rest at https://www.heavenlyrestabilene.org/give.
 

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Steve Tankersley
June 3, 2006 in Midland
Cancer


Carl Stephen Morris Tankersley, 65, went home to be with Jesus on June 3rd, 2006.

Steve was a man who truly loved his Lord and openly shared that love with others. Through his ten year battle with cancer, many remember him for his positive spirit, friendly smile and salutation, "Jesus loves you." He was a member of First Baptist Church for thirty years and loved his Sunday school class, the Daniel Department. He taught Sunday school, sang in the choir, worked in apartment ministry for eight years and went on several mission trips. Even during his illness, he dilligently prayed for others who were sick, often calling to encourage them.

Pepaw loved spending time with his family and found particular delight in his "A Team", daughter, Ainslee, and granddaughters, Ashely, Aubrey, Adi and Anni. Family domino games, pizza night and visiting his family in Israel were treasured moments.

His life was simple, but complete. He loved the outdoors and always took time to enjoy God's creations. An afternoon fishing on the lake and watching the beautiful sunset were favorite pastimes. Steve also enjoyed arrowhead hunting, playing the guitar, visiting with friends, reading his Bible and a tall glass of iced tea.

Steve is survived by his loving wife of twenty-nine years, Janice Stanfield Tankersley, and daughter, Ainslee, both of Midland; daughter Tammy Worley and husband, John, and four granddaughters, Ashley, Aubrey, Adi and Anni, all of Tivon, Israel; a brother, Lamar Tankersley and wife, Margaret, of Fredericksburg; a sister, Virginia Kelly of Albuquerque, New Mexico; and a cherished extended family. He was also blessed wih many loving friends and caregivers.

Special thanks to Allison Cancer Center and Home Hospice for your care and support.

The graveside service was held on Tuesday, June 6 at 1 p.m. at Resthaven Memorial Park, followed by a "Celebration of Life" service at First Baptist Church of Midland at 2 p.m.

Memorials may be directed to Home Hospice, 901 W. Missouri, Midland, TX 79701 or Israel Ministry Fund, c/o First Baptist Church, Midland, TX 79701. Arrangements are by Andrews Funeral Home.

Published in the Midland Reporter-Telegram on June 5, 2006

 
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Bobby Warren Taylor
July 31, 1941 to May 28, 1993




Bobby Warren Taylor, 51, of Abilene, died Friday at his residence.

Services at North Side Baptist Church with Drs. Don Greenway and Bill Hillier officiating. Burial in Elmwood Memorial Park, directed by Elliott-Hamil Funeral Home, 5701 U.S. Highway 277 South.

Mr. Taylor was born in Stonewall County. A meat cutter, he had worked at Furrs for 14 years, Safeway 17 years and Kroger in Dallas and Fort Worth before becoming ill.

He was a member of North Side Baptist Church.

Survivors include his wife, Linda Taylor of Abilene; two sons, Rusty Taylor and Brian Taylor, both of Abilene; and parents, Mr. and Mrs. Melvin B. Taylor of Anson.

Memorials may be made to Hospice of Abilene, P.O. Box 1922, Abilene 79604.

Abilene Reporter News, May 29, 1993

 
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Joe Ann Thornton Frayer
February 14, 1941 to February 6, 1991


Joe Ann Frayer, 49, of Georgetown, formerly of Abilene, died Wednesday, Feb 6, 1991 in Georgetown. She was married to Fred L. Frayer in Abilene on June 17, 1959 and was a member of the Church of God. Mrs. Frayer was born February 14, 1941, in Taylor County, the daughter of the late T.W. and Della Boydston Thornton.

In addition to her husband, she is survived by three daughters and sons-in-law, Delanna and Rick Edge, Rejeann and Clint Fraser and Melanie and John Noles, all of Georgetown; a sister and brother-in-law, B.L. 'Mack' and Tommy Sawyer of Georgetown; six grandchildren, Lyle, Travis, Thomas and Whitney Fraser and Jessica and Nikki Edge; several nieces, nephews, aunts and uncles.

The funeral was at 3 p.m. Saturday at the Davis Funeral Home Chapel with the Revs. Lottie Dunham and Gary Creppon officiating. Burial was in Capital Memorial Park.

Pallbearers were Bernard Sawyer, Lee 'Tim' Sawyer, Dennis Sawyer, Ricky George, Ronnie Boydston and Scott Gibson.

Honorary bearers were James Sawyer and Jason Sawyer. The family suggests contributions to the Austin Hospice Association.
James Elton 'Jim' Toney
January 27, 1941 to January 29, 2004
Cancer


HAWLEY - JAMES "JIM" TONEY, 62, died January 19, 2004. Services will be 10:00 a.m. January 21, 2004, at Hawley Church of Christ. Burial will be in Hawley Cemetery, directed by Lawrence-Adams Funeral Home.

Born January 27, 1941 in Abilene, Jim was the son of Ima (Lantrip) Toney and the late Carlos Toney. He graduated from Abilene High School and served in the Army. Jim married Annabelle Stephens June 17, 1976. He was an electrician and silversmith having recently retired.

One nephew preceded him in death.

Survivors include his wife, Annabelle Toney of Hawley; two sons, Lee and wife Pat Toney of Jarral and Jimmy and wife Kelley Toney of Hawley; one daughter, Amanda Toney of Hawley; his mother, Ima Toney of Lago Vista; two sisters, Carloyn Toney of Cedar Park and Jan and husband Olen Akers of Dunwoody, GA; brother, Philip and wife Low Gwek Choon Toney of Singapore; and grandchildren; Lee's children, Daniel and Noah, Jimmy's son, "Jet", and Megan Jacobson, Pat's daughter.

In lieu of flowers, those wishing may give of yourself, your time, or donations to others or organizations as Jim did throughout his life.

Abilene Reporter News, January 21, 2004

 
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Bill Tull

Reported suicide

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Sandra Varner Allen Rosser
September 19, 1941 to January 1, 1996
Auto accident, Canon City, CO

Sandra and Billy Jan Allen had two children in Taylor County: Jannabeth in 1966 and Jeffrey in 1969.

She married Jerry D. Rosser on 25 Jun 1993 and died on 1 Jan 1996.

The Social Security death index does not show the place of her death.

 
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Don Vest
December 16, 1940 to August 15, 1994
 

Adrian Don Vest was born 16 December 1940 in Taylor County and died 15 August 1994 in Eastland County.

He married Melvina Louise Howle on 6 August 1971 in Taylor County. Don and his wife had two children in Taylor County, Gregory Adrian Vest in 1972 and Shannon Michelle Vest in 1974.

He was a Vietnam veteran, having served in the U. S. Navy.

Don is interred at Abilene Municipal Cemetery (formerly Cedar Hill Cemetery), 1133 Cottonwood.



 

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Jackie Dean "J. D." Wade
April 15, 1940 to December 15, 1987



J. D. Wade was born in Haskell County and married Joan Haldeman in 1968 in Dallas County. He died in Llano County and no obituary or further information has been found.
 
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flagOtto James 'Jim' Waldrip
December 9, 1940 to March 13, 2000



FORT STOCKTON - Otto James 'Jim' Waldrip, 59, died Wednesday, March 13, 2000.

Services at the Church of Christ; burial in East Hill Cemetery, directed by Fort Stockton Funeral Home.

Abilene Reporter News, March 15, 2000

Jim married Bonnie Jewell Lesley in Abilene. They had two children, Kerry Kim in 1964 in Lubbock and Nathan Geoffrey in 1970 in Midland.

 
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Barbara Ann Weekley Watson
September 12, 1941 to November 1981



Barbara was born in Henderson County. She married William A. Tillison and they had three children in Dallas County; Tamara Gail in 1963, Larita Gay in 1965, and Suzanna Kay in 1969.

She married Curtis W. Watson on January 19, 1973 in Dallas County and their daughter, Cathy L., was born in Dallas County in 1974.

No additional information is available other than that her Death Certificate was issued in November 1981 and the place was not specified.

 
Herman Morris Weller
April 28, 1941 to March 2, 2010
Cancer


Herman Morris Weller of Ennis, Texas died March 2, 2010 at MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston. He was born on April 28, 1941 in Snyder, Texas to Herman and Thana Weller. He is survived by his wife Pam, his son and daughter-in-law John and Leticia Weller of Keller, Texas and their children Ava, Michael and Philip; by his daughter and son-in-law Robin and Matt Kintz of Dallas and their children Conner, Riley, Lauren and Ryan. He is also survived by his father Herman Weller of Sacramento, California, his sister and brother-in-law Janet and Harold Fisher of Roseville, California and by numerous other family members.

Morris was a graduate of Abilene High School, Abilene Christian University and the University of Wisconsin were he earned his Masters Degree. He was an analytical chemist at Allied Laboratories of Dallas before beginning Quality Consultant Services in Ennis in 1985. He later sold the lab to Schirm USA and continued to serve as their Vice President of Product Development.

He was a man of great compassion, who deeply loved his Lord and his family. He served as a deacon and mission chairman at the Skillman Church of Christ and later as an elder of the Church of Christ in Ennis for twelve years. Funeral services Friday, March 5, 2010 in the Church of Christ on Country Club in Ennis with Darryl Willis and Dr. Mike Armour officiating. Interment at Myrtle Cemetery under the direction of J.E. Keever Mortuary, Inc. He would be honored by memorial contributions to Eastern European Mission, P.O. Box 670728, Dallas, Texas 75367-0928; World Bible School, Box 2169, Cedar Park, TX 78630: or MD Anderson Cancer Center, 1515 Holcombe, Houston, TX 77030.

Dallas Morning News

 
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Richard Whatley
July 8, 1942 to March 13, 1966
Auto accident


Funeral for Richard Davis Whatley, 23, of 1125 San Jose, killed Sunday morning when his car overturned on IH 20 southeast of Sweetwater, was held at 3:30 p.m. Monday in Corinth Baptist Church.

The Rev. Elbert Peak, pastor, officiated, with burial in Elmwood Memorial Park directed by Elliot's Funeral Home.

Mr. Whatley was en route to work at the Texas Electric Service Co. river plant at Colorado City with his brother, Larry, 19, who was injured in the wreck.

Born July 8, 1942 at Sweetwater, he was the son of Mr. and Mrs. Herman Whatley, 990 N. LaSalle. He was an active member of Electricians Union No. 920. He married Judy Kay Welch here in 1963.

Surviving are his wife and a three-month-old son, Bryan; his parents; the brother, Larry of 1550 Westmoreland; two sisters, Mrs. Marion Stracener of 1825 Glenhaven and Mrs. Dorothy Hanshaw of 1734 Westmoreland.

Abilene Reporter News, March 14, 1966

 
Brenda Whiteaker Jackson
Nov 4, 1940 to April 19, 2007
Heart attack

Brenda Jackson, 66, passed away on Thursday, April 19, 2007. Funeral services were at The Hamil Family Funeral Home, 6449 Buffalo Gap Road, with Rev. Carter Edmondson officiating. Burial followed in the Hamby Cemetery.

Brenda was born on November 4, 1940 in Abilene, Texas, the daughter of Alton Whiteaker and Beatrice (Perry) Whiteaker. She graduated from Abilene High School and Draughn's Business College. Brenda was a lifelong resident of the Abilene area and for many years worked for Cal Tex Feed Yard in Trent as the secretary and bookkeeper. She was a member of the Hamby Methodist Church. Brenda was also a member of the Merkel Ladies Golf Association, Shady Oaks Ladies Golf Association and the Merkel Senior Golfers.

Loving sports of all kinds, Brenda spent many hours in her younger years showing 4-H club calves and racing barrels. Fast pitch softball was also a passion of hers. She started playing at a very young age and played until about 1980. From the time her daughter, Debbie, was 7 years old until the age of 19, Brenda coached her fast pitch softball team. She also coached many girls in the Trent and Merkel area. She always played golf, but after retiring from the pitcher's mound, she made the golf course her home away from home. When she was not at work or playing golf, Brenda would follow her grandchildren, Whitney and Laramy, to all of their events or she would spend time visiting with her many friends.

Brenda is survived by one daughter, Debbie Richardson and her husband Gary; one brother, Payton Whiteaker and his wife Shirley; two grandchildren, Whitney and Laramy Richardson, all of Hamby; three nieces, D'Ann Gonzalez and her husband Daniel of Arlington, Rhonda Whiteaker of Decatur, and Paula Odom of Arlington; two great-nieces, Bethany and Natalie Gonzalez of Arlington. She is also survived by numerous friends.

Pallbearers were her special golf partners, Sherri Bowden, Danna Dunagin, Jeanie West, Cindy Hamner, Wanda Hendricks, Faye Robertson and Jo Ann Gardner.

Honorary pallbearers were Don Dudley, Don Moore, Lloyd Williams, Lou Garner, Steve Shugart, Rex Bland, John Bland, Johnny Kirk Edmondson and Terry Brown.

Memorials may be made in honor of Brenda Jackson to the donor's favorite charity.

 
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Maurice (Tessie M.) Wiginton
November 24, 1941 to July 25, 2006



Maurice Wiginton is pictured with our class in the 1959 Flashlight and shown as a transfer from Eula; however she is not listed on the Graduation Program as a spring graduate.

She married Billy Gene Hausam and they had three children, the first, Robert, in 1959 in Taylor County. They had their second child, Betty, in 1963 in Taylor County and the last, James, in 1964 in Tarrant County. Sometime after the birth of James, they moved to Oklahoma City, OK.

She died there on July 25, 2006 at 65 years of age and her death notice simply stated that she was an accountant. Her husband died in Oklahoma City in 1997.

 
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R. B. Willman
November 6, 1940 to February 26, 2006
Cancer

TULSA, Oklahoma -- A memorial service celebrating the life of Richard B. Willman was held in the sanctuary of First United Methodist Church. The Willman's pastor, Rev. Ray Crawford, officiated.

He died Saturday, February 25 in a Tulsa hospital following a lengthy illness.

Richard was born November 6, 1940 in Dallas, TX. The son of Fred and Mary Ann Willman was named for his two Willman uncles, Richard and Bernard, and was known as "R.B." to his family and the friends of his youth.

He moved with his family to Abilene, TX. where he grew up and attended school, graduating from Abilene High School. He then entered Texas A and M University, where he earned his business administration degree, graduating in 1963. Just a month after graduation, he married Dorothy Lee Whitehurst, at Centenary Chapel in Shreveport, LA. They moved to Austin, TX where Richard began his business career in management with Sears, Roebuck and Co.

Seven years later, Richard's job took them to Joplin, MO., where they resided for a year before moving to Lincoln, Neb. Just a year later, they were transferred to Harlingen, TX. Another year and another transfer sent the family to Kansas City, MO., and the family chose to live in nearby Kearney. After a two year residency, yet another Sears transfer brought the family to Oklahoma. Richard worked in Tulsa and chose Claremore as home for his growing family.

When Sears offered yet another promotion and transfer, Richard decided to make Claremore his permanent home. He purchased a feed and farm supply store downtown and Willman's Inc. became a true family business. His wife, children and sometimes even the family pet greeted and served customers in the feed store. When the store was sold in 1991, Richard and Dorothy formed another business with co-workers and friends Jerry and Linda Moree. Richard continued to operate Rogers County Pecan Company and a lawn maintenance service until health problems forced his retirement.

An active member of First United Methodist Church, Richard was proud to tell friends that he and work associates under his direction were solely responsible for the church's lawn care since the relocation from the downtown site.

Richard is survived by his wife Dorothy; their sons Richard Lee and wife Heather of Oklahoma City, Fred Douglas and wife Jennifer of Dallas, TX; daughters Tiffany Masson and husband, Grant of Dallas, TX., and Laura Willman and fiancee Cris January of Clearwater Beach, FL; grandchildren Bailey and Nicolas Willman of Oklahoma City, sister Shirley Skipworth and husband Paul, of Dallas; nephews, Fred Ray Skipworth of Waco, TX, and Douglas Skipworth and wife, Merrill of Memphis, TN, and their daughters; and his mother, Mary Ann Willman, also of Dallas. His father preceded him in death.

His family has suggested that memorial contributions may be given to the Next Step Building Fund of Claremore's First United Methodist Church, 1615 N. Hwy. 88, Claremore, OK 74017, or to the American Cancer Society, P.O. Box 22718, Oklahoma City, OK 73123-1718, or www.cancer.org.

 

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