Johnny Harlow, 81, passed away Saturday, June 29, 2019 in Graham.  Graveside services are Tuesday, July 2 at 2 p.m. in Pioneer Cemetery under the direction of Morrison Funeral Home.

Johnny was born Nov. 1, 1937 in Woodson to the late William Byron and Gladys (Hughes) Harlow. He married Elizabeth Marie Gregory Sept. 2, 1961 in Fort Worth. Johnny was a veteran of the U.S. Army and was a member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church.

Johnny loved sharing stories with family and friends about his music days with Lake Country Five. He was a master of the steel guitar and played with joy in his heart. He was loved by many and lived life selflessly.

Survivors include: wife, Elizabeth “Babe” Harlow of Graham; daughters, Valerie Skidmore and husband, Jimmy of Graham and Jennifer Vargas and husband, Roger of San Antonio; son, Chris Harlow and wife, Ann of Rockwall; grandchildren, Saxon Yarbrough, Keaton Skidmore, Kaitlyn Smith, Evan Smith,Victor Vargas, Lucas Harlow, Alexis Pryor, Savannah Pryor, Carley Pryor and Kenny Griffith; great grandchildren, Holden Yarbrough and Axle Griffith.

Memorials may be made to Beyond Faith Hospice, 604 Oak Street, Graham, Texas 76450.

Ben William Mosley passed away June 29, 2019 at his home in Graham. Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Wednesday at the Jean United Methodist Church. Interment will be in Pioneer Cemetery. Family visitation is from 5-7 p.m. Tuesday at McMillan-Satterwhite Funeral Home.

Ben was born Dec. 1, 1944 in Baird and moved to Graham in 1986 from Andrews. He was a graduate of Anson High School and was retired from AMOCO and the City of Graham. He served in the U.S. Army in the Vietnam War.

Survivors include four sons, Robert of Jean, Lance and wife Rebecca of Graham, Vince and wife Marla of Ft. Collins, Colorado, Brandon and wife Jill of Vineyard, Texas; two daughters, Patricia Mosley of McCamey, Texas and Sammie Daily and husband Kenny of Graham; three brothers, Larry, Edward and Buddy; sister, Margaret Ochs; 16 grandchildren and four great grandchildren.

Ben was preceded in death by his parents, Charlie and Mildred Mosley, two brothers, Charles and Lynn, sister, Lugenia and by his wife Vicki and his wife Peggy.

Ottis Lee Mullin, 92, of Graham passed away Friday, June 28, 2019. Visitation was Monday, July 1 at Morrison Funeral Home from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. A Memorial Service will be Tuesday, July 2 at the Eastside Church of Christ in Graham at 10 a.m. Graveside service will be Wednesday, July 3 at 10 a.m. in Dreamland Cemetery in Turkey followed by a celebration service at the Church of Christ in Turkey at 11 a.m. Arrangements are under the direction of Morrison Funeral Home. 

Ottis was born in Turkey on May 12, 1927 to William Bert Mullin and Gracie Eugene (Pierce) Mullin. He was raised in Turkey and graduated from Turkey High School. Ottis was a World War II veteran where he served in the U. S. Army as part of the European occupational force. After returning to Turkey he met and married Rita Mc Alister, on Aug. 18, 1954 in Carlsbad, N.M. He was a water well driller and cotton farmer until he relocated to Graham in 1984. He then worked as a landman until he retired. Ottis was a member of the Eastside Church of Christ in Graham. He will be greatly missed by his family and friends.

Survivors include his wife of 64 years, Rita Mullin of Graham; sons, Brent Mullin and his wife Laura of Graham, Norman Mullin and wife Connie of Amarillo; daughter, Jena McClaine and husband Stephen of Midland; nine grandchildren and twenty-two great grandchildren.

Ottis was preceded in death by his father William Bert Mullin, his mother Gracie Eugene (Pierce) Mullin, brothers, Nobit Hue Mullin, Leo Bert Mullin and sister, Willie Grace (Mullin) Majors.

In lieu of flowers the family suggests memorials to Beyond Faith Hospice or donor’s charity of choice.

Jeanette Golson, 84, passed away Saturday, July 6, 2019. Funeral was Tuesday, July 9 at 10 a.m. at Oak Street Baptist Church in Graham. Burial will follow in Pioneer Cemetery under the direction of Morrison Funeral Home. A Memorial Service may be planned at a later date in Oak Ridge, Tenn.

Jeanette was born in Phil Campbell, Ala. to the late Jeanette Hale Spiller and Hilliard D. Spiller. After receiving her R.N. degree from the University of Alabama Birmingham, she worked for UAB hospital before joining the U.S. Air Force. Jeanette married Thomas James Golson, Oct. 15, 1960 in San Antonio. They have been residents of Oak Ridge Tennessee since 1963. After raising their children, Jeanette resumed her career as a R.N. at Methodist Medical Center in Oak Ridge Tennessee. Jeanette was a member of Central Baptist Church in Oak Ridge since 1976.

Survivors include; husband, Thomas Golson of Oak Ridge, Tenn.; daughters, Kay Guinn and husband Jimmy of Graham, Linda Cross and husband Joel of Marietta, Ga.; grandchildren, Jim Guinn and wife Chelsea of College Station, David Guinn and wife Maria of Dallas, Benjamin Cross, Amanda Cross, and Camille Cross all of Marietta, Ga.; great grandchildren, Blair and Caroline Guinn of College Station.

Memorials may be made to Central Baptist Church, 130 Providence Rd, Oak Ridge, TN 37830 or Oak Street Baptist Church, Agape Ministry, 505 First Street, Graham, Texas 76450.

Condolences may be sent to the family at morrisonfuneralhome.com.

Jimmy Delbert Ratcliffe, 80, passed away Tuesday, July 9, 2019 at his home. Funeral will be 2 p.m. Sunday, July 14 at Morrison Funeral Home Chapel. Burial will follow in Pioneer Cemetery. 

Jim was born Nov. 29, 1938 in Graham to the late Milton Ray and Gladys (Laquey) Ratcliffe. He was raised all over Young County as one of the “Jean kids” and although he moved away a few times, he always was drawn back to his Graham roots. After high school he joined the U.S. Army and upon returning from his tour in Vicenza, Italy, he moved to Farmington, N.M. where he met and married the love of his life, Elsie Juanice Walker on Dec. 30, 1961. She preceded him in death on Dec. 8, 2016. He spent most of his adult life working in the Oil and Gas industry, in Farmington and in Graham, and has owned his own business in Graham for over 40 years. Jim also had a passion for working the land and raising his own cattle, which he continued to do until the day he died.

Survivors include; daughter, Shirley McPherson and fiancé John Butler of Graham; son, Charlie Ratcliffe and wife Johnna of Graham; six grandchildren, Garrett McPherson and wife Meredith, Jacob McPherson and wife Brooke, Matthew McPherson, Joshua Morrison, Julia Morrison, Skyla Riddle and husband Dallas; great grandchild, Cole Riddle; brothers, Ted Ratcliffe and wife Carolyn of Lubbock, Wayne Ratcliffe and wife Dorothy of Palo Pinto; several nieces and nephews also survive.

Jim was preceded in death by sisters, Helen Wooldridge and Martha Nation and a brother Richard Ratcliffe.

Visitation will be Saturday from 6 to 8 p.m. at Morrison Funeral Home.  

Jim David Casteel, 76, passed away July 10, 2019 in Dallas. Graveside service will be Tuesday, July 16 at 10 a.m. in Tonk Valley Cemetery under the direction of Morrison Funeral Home. 

He was born Jan. 4, 1943 in Graham to Roy Lee and Percy Pearl Rasco Casteel. He married Sylvia Anne Chambers March 27, 2011. He lived in Graham until he joined the Army where he served two tours in Vietnam. After he left the Army he was manager of an apartment complex in Garland before retiring and moving to Balch Springs where he continued with his love of music. He loved to play his guitar and sing especially at the cafe in Balch Springs at least once a week. He also had a jam session at his home once a month for all his friends who played and sang, that was his enjoyment. 

He is survived by: his wife, Sylvia Anne of Balch Springs; sons, David Casteel of Florida, Jack Casteel, Jeff Casteel and Terry and Teresa Vance all of the metroplex; daughter, Marsha and husband, Billy Bolin; brothers, Roy Jack and Evelyn Casteel of California and Bill Casteel of Graham; sisters, Ruth Ann and Doyle Cornell of Olney, Thelma Jean Casteel, Adabel Silva, Debbie Gardenhire and Patti McAlister all of Graham; sister-in-law, Betty Casteel of Abilene; eight grandchildren and five great grandchildren; several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, brothers, Fred and Frank Casteel and sister, Jane Wages.

Visitation will be Monday from 5 to 7 p.m. at the funeral home.

Mildred Louise (White) McMillan, age 88, of Brownwood passed away peacefully Tuesday, July 9, 2019.

A Celebration of Life for Mildred will be held at 2 p.m. Friday, July 12 at the First Baptist Church with Bill Slaymaker officiating; a private family interment will be held prior to services.

Visitation will be held Thursday evening from 5-7 p.m. at Blaylock Funeral Home. Arrangements are under the direction of Blaylock Funeral Home of Brownwood.

Mildred was born on Jan. 27, 1931, to William Leroy and Rachel (Nunn) White in Navasota. After high school, she attended Howard Payne University. She graduated in 1951 with a bachelor’s degree in education, also receiving her teacher’s certificate in New Mexico.

She married the love of her life, Carl McMillan, on May 27, 1951, after a year of courtship and a year engagement. Mildred taught elementary school for 27 years, always teaching wherever Carl would become an Administrator of Education and sometimes coach.

Mildred had a true servant’s heart; she was an active member and volunteer to many organizations, including: Maybee Center Thanksgiving Dinners, Meals on Wheels, Good Samaritan, and the local community garden. She was a secretary for Republic Women of Brown County, Texas. Mildred was also an active member and volunteer of First Baptist Church of Brownwood.

Mildred was a devoted daughter, wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend.

Mildred is survived by her two daughters and their spouses, Rebecca Johnston and husband Keith, Kathy McMillan Wichman and husband Jeff; grandsons, Jeremy Brister and Holden McMillan. She is also survived by other relatives and friends.

She was preceded in death by her husband of 66 years, Dr. T. Carl McMillan; parents, William and Rachel White; sister, Dorothy “Dot” Shaw; and brothers, Leroy, Lawrence, Melvin, and James White.

In lieu of flowers, memorials for Mildred can be made to Dr. T. Carl and Mildred McMillan Endowed Scholarship Fund (HPU, P.O. Box 2369 Brownwood, TX 76804). Online condolences for the family are welcome at www.blaylockfuneralhome.com.

Roger Bell went to meet the Lord his savior on Monday, July 8, 2019 in Graham. A celebration memorial service will be held at 10 a.m. on Saturday, July 13 at the Coach Mike Doss Field V (5) in the Hubble Baseball Complex, 200 Hwy 67 in Graham.

Roger was born in Mundy on Sept. 30, 1941 to Riley and Vera Bell. He grew up and graduated high school there. He had a funny personality that lit up a room. He never met a stranger. He was a whiz in math and history and had excellent memory recall. He was very athletic. He was especially good in track. He set a new record in the mile at regionals his senior year. He also played basketball and football and made all district and baseball was his passion. He lived and breathed sports. He loved passing his knowledge on to the youth today. He would have been an excellent coach. Roger was voted Most Outstanding Boy, vice president of his class and Carnival King and also selected as Mr. MHS his senior year. He was truly highly thought of in high school. He went to North Texas State College in Denton on a track scholarship. He then came back to Munday until Mary graduated from high school in 1961. Then Roger and Mary both went to Lubbock Christian College for one year 9/1961-5/1962.

Roger married his high school sweetheart Mary Patterson on Dec. 22, 1961. They moved to Ft. Worth in the spring of 1964. He went to work for Texas Instruments in Dallas sometime in 1965. They moved to Plano in 1969. He was also the Youth Minister of the church. Then they moved back to Munday in the summer of 1972. Then they moved to Stamford in 1973. Then finally he moved to Graham in 1975. He became a master plumber under the guidance of Ed Davis and started his own business. He was a member of the Graham promenader’s square dancers for 12 years and he Umpired for little league. He started umpiring at the request of his boss at the business he was working. He umpired for over 40 years where most of the time was spent in Graham. He also trained Sue and other family members to work along side him. It was one of his greatest joys along with high school football, which he traveled across Texas to watch. He was a huge fan of Country music and loved the Sons of the Pioneers and favorites like Merle Haggard. He married Joy Miller (deceased) on Aug. 13, 1976. He is currently married to Margarett Sue as of April 5, 2000. He loved and was very proud of his family.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Riley Dee and Vera Lola McKinney Bell, his brother Bobby Dee Bell, and sisters Donna Kay Austin and Vicki Darlene Barker.

Survivors include: his wife Sue Bell of 20 years; sister Glenda Sue Straw and Cliff of Seymour; children with Mary Patterson Bell, Melinda (Mindy) Braden and Dwayne of Midland, Kenneth Bell and Amanda of Midland, Mary Kathryn Attebury (Kathy) and John of Green Cove Springs Fla., and Keith Foxx and Tiffani of Belton; grandchildren, Harrison Mundy and Christy, Marne’ Barclay and Andy, Danne’ Braden, Jordan Bell-Lane, Haley Bell, Nathan Bell, Jacob Bell, Hannah Bell, Maizie Mahlstedt, Madilyn Mahlstedt, Gracie Foxx, Hudson Foxx, Megan Young and Mike, Kyle Attebury and Rachel; great grandchildren, Summer Mundy, Skylar Mundy, Carter Mundy, Olivia Barclay, Owen Barclay, Sophie Young, Grayson Young, and Owen Young; children with Joy Bell, James Miller of Graham, Joey Miller of Wichita Falls, Scott Bell of Graham, and Robert Bell of Graham; mother of grandchildren, Victoria Benavides of Sagerton; grandchildren, Grace Miller of Graham, Greg Miller of Graham, Robbie Miller of Wichita Falls, Madelyn Bell Sagerton, Brooklyn Bell, Sagerton, and Grayson Bell of Sagerton; children with Sue Bell, Eric Westmoreland of Mineral Wells, Tobie Westmoreland of Mineral Wells, and Kathryn “Katie” Westmoreland of Mineral Wells; grandchildren, Christopher Westmoreland of Mineral Wells, Faith Westmoreland Mineral Wells, Johnni Dominguez of Mineral Wells, Jade Flegle of Mineral Wells, Gage Perez of Mineral Wells, Jensen Perez of Mineral Wells, and Paris Perez of Mineral Wells; great grandchildren, Elias Potts, Aaliyah Potts, and Reign Perez.

Memorials may be made to Graham Little League Baseball or American Cancer Society.

Carla McCracken, 82, passed away Tuesday, July 9, 2019. Funeral is scheduled Saturday, July 13 at 10 a.m. at First Baptist Church. Burial will follow in Pioneer Cemetery under the direction of Morrison Funeral Home.

Carla was born March 18, 1937 in Houma, La. to the late Carlos Stanley and Vasta Smith Green. She graduated from Minden, Louisiana High School and Baylor University with a degree in English.  She married Eugene McCracken Aug. 27, 1961 in Minden, La.  He preceded her in death on Oct. 4, 2013. Carla was a retired Art teacher at Graham High School after teaching for 35 years and a member of First Baptist Church.

Survivors include; daughter, Marla Coleman and husband Russell of Caddo Mills; sons, Than McCracken and wife Shawn of Graham, Matt McCracken and wife Angela of Spring; grandchildren, Adria Kachtik and husband Drew, Jeremy Lee Allen, Macey McCracken, Ryan and Cody Coleman, and Cate McCracken; great grandchild, Kenna Kachtik; sisters, Denise Key and husband Tom of Mineral Wells, Diane Sentell and husband Sherburne of Minden, LA.; brother, Stan Green and wife Donna of Spring.

Visitation will be Friday from 6 to 8 p.m. at Morrison Funeral Home.

Fredamae Brewer passed away July 12, 2019 in Graham. A graveside service will be held at 10 a.m. Tuesday, July 16, 2019 at Pioneer Cemetery in Graham. McMillan-Satterwhite Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.

Mrs. Brewer was born Jan. 31, 1933 in Ralls and moved to Graham in 1983 from Floydada. She was a receptionist for Dr. S.C. Brewerton in Graham for many years and was a member of the First Baptist Church.

Survivors include her daughter, Jean Whitsitt and husband Owen of Graham; five grandchildren, Jana Frost, Laura English, David Brewer, Wayne Chowning and Dusty Chowning; 11 great grandchildren, Kyle Starling, Jaeden Frost, Tristen Frost, Paige Brewer, Colton Brewer, Logan Brewer, Kendra Chowning, Kayla Chowning, Kensi Chowning, Kaci Chowning and Kaylee Chowning; two great-great grandchildren, Stella Grace Starling and Kinzlee Young. Several nieces and nephews also survive.

Mrs. Brewer was preceded in death by her husband, David Ellis Brewer, her son, David Ellis Brewer, Jr., and by three brothers, Raymond, Hollis and Walter Powers.

Robert “Bob” Clark, 73, passed away Friday, July 12, 2019 at his home. Funeral will be Thursday, July 18 at 10 a.m. in Morrison Funeral Home Chapel. Burial will follow in Gooseneck Cemetery under the direction of Morrison Funeral Home.

Bob was born July 28, 1945 in Peru, Ind. to the late Wilbur Eugene and Cora Marion (Plothow) Clark. He married Shirley Roberts March 26, 1981 in Wise County. Bob retired after 38 years from Zack Burkett Company as an accountant and was a member of Salem Crestview United Methodist Church. Bob was an avid athlete, who loved sports, riding his motorcycle, watching NASCAR and Indy car racing and loved being outside.

Survivors include: wife, Shirley Kay Clark of Graham; sons, Carl Clark and wife, Lisa of San Antonio, Chris Clark and wife, Jodi of Indianapolis, Ind. and Brent Clark and wife, Emily of Newport, Ore.; sister, Kay Ellars of Bunker Hill, Ind.; brother, Ed Clark and wife, Mary of Peru, Ind.; grandchildren, Kagan Clark, Macy Clark, Avery Clark, and Quanah Clark also several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by a sister, Mary Ann Allman.

The family would like to give a special thanks to Solaris Hospice.

Memorials may be made to St. Jude Children’s Hospital or your favorite charity.

Visitation will be held Wednesday from 6 to 8 p.m. at the funeral home.

Shannon Wayne Boyle, 47, passed away July 11, 2019 in Palo Pinto County. Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, July 17 at 10 a.m. in the First United Methodist Church. Arrangements are under the direction of Morrison Funeral Home. A private burial will be held at Loving Cemetery at later time for the immediate family.

Shannon was born on May 5, 1972 in Graham to Wayne Lavell Boyle and Gladys Waldene Walker. He grew up in Graham always enjoyed boating and especially loved spending time with his children who he adored, Keaton and Aislinn. He loved being outdoors, and could often be found roping and riding horses, which brought him great joy.

Shannon is survived by his children Keaton Boyle of Graham and Aislinn Boyle of Graham; mother, Waldene Boyle of Terlingua; father and step mother, Wayne and Tara Boyle of Graham; step sisters, Kellie Kubala of Fort Worth, Brandy Kubala of Graham, and Codi Philipp of Burleson;  brother, Michael Kee of Graham; and niece Laci Lipsey of Graham.

Shannon was preceded in death by a great nephew, Berkley Lipsey.

Edward Duane Johnson, 88, passed away Saturday, July 13, 2019 in Graham. Visitation will be Monday, July 22 at 1 p.m. in Morrison Funeral Home Chapel and a memorial service will follow at 2 p.m. under the direction of Morrison Funeral Home.

Duane was born Jan. 15, 1931 in Frederick, Okla. to the late Olin and Minnie Gertrude (Prescott) Johnson. He married Sammie Sue Muse April 8, 1952 in Frederick, Okla. and she preceded him in death on Feb. 13, 2016. Duane was a veteran of the U.S. Air Force and a member of the Eastside Church of Christ. Duane loved to follow sports. He loved both Lubbock Christian University sports teams as well as the Graham Steers and Lady Blues. He was inducted into the LCU Sports Hall of Fame in 2015 as a #1 Fan. He was truly honored as a sports fan, though many Umps and Refs might have a different opinion. Duane loved to teach Bible class and preach and was active doing that until he passed away. He was loved by so many and will be missed.

Survivors include: daughter, Sharon “Dee Dee” Bundy and Bill of Graham; brother, Neal Johnson and wife, Sandra of Sanger; grandchildren, Heather Byars and husband, Matt of Lubbock and J.E. Bundy and wife, Megan of Midland; seven great grandchildren. 

In lieu of flowers the family is requesting memorials be made to:  Lubbock Christian University Duane and Sammie Johnson Athletic Scholarship Fund.

Phillip W. Shepherd, Sr., 77, highly respected Dallas architect, died July 11, 2019, with his family by his side at Presbyterian Hospital. He was diagnosed with Stage 4 Pancreatic Cancer in January and fought a valiant fight.

He was born on May 29, 1942, his mother’s birthday, in Copperhill, Tenn., to Warren L. and Helen King Shepherd while his father was in the Army. When World War II was over, his dad came to Graham, where Phil and his mom were with relatives and the family decided to stay.

This is where he was raised and attended school making many lifelong friendships. The family spent many enjoyable years at Possum Kingdom Lake which was always one of his favorite places, as was Yosemite National Park where he worked during summers while in college. He taught his children the same love for these destinations.

All the family spent many enjoyable times at the Shepherd PK lake house he designed in Gaines Bend; his Dad was so proud to have built the house his son designed. The memories from the Shepherd Angostura summer home near Tres Ritos, N.M., will always be cherished.

Phil developed an interest in architecture from working with his father in his construction business. He graduated from Texas Tech University with a BA in Architecture in 1966; shortly thereafter he married Frances Rogers and moved to Dallas to start his distinguished career.

His first job was with Beran & Shelmire and he later joined Harwood K. Smith & Partners where he quickly became Vice President and was made Partner. Upon leaving HKS, he started a career on his own until teaming with another HKS architect. They formed Shepherd & Boyd which grew into one of the largest firms in the Dallas area with services including architecture, interior design, and planning.

The firm received national recognition for many of their design projects specializing in office buildings, mid and high-rise residential, retail centers, luxury hotels and financial institutions. He was so proud to have designed and completed work on the Graham Library and several financial institutions in his hometown of Graham where he was able to spend time with his parents and reconnect with many lifelong friends.

When his partnership with Boyd ended, he formed Shepherd and Partners which continued to be a leader in the industry. His high-profile projects are too many to mention, having been registered in 15 states and having offices in numerous cities including Beverly Hills and Phoenix with projects throughout the US and as far as Abu Dhabi, Russia, Canada, and Australia.
Two of the most notable Dallas projects were his involvement in the concept and design for the iconic Mansion on Turtle Creek as Designer and Project Architect with Caroline Rose Hunt and the Sands family in 1981 and The Crescent, a joint venture between Rosewood Properties, Inc. and Phillip W. Shepherd. His role in the Crescent was Project Architect in conjunction with Johnson and Burgee, NYC Design Architects.

One of his last notable projects was One Uptown on McKinney, a collaboration between PWS Architects and Humphrey & Partners. Shepherd’s work has been published in the New York Times, Architectural Digest, Architectural Record, Dallas Morning News, and the Dallas Business Journal, and he received numerous awards for design excellence.

He was preceded in death by his parents Helen and Warren Shepherd and four special friends: Bobby Bridewell, Jimmy Guinn, Nauman Scott, and Tom Jones. Phil was a loving and devoted Father and is survived by two sons, Phillip Shepherd Jr. (Christine Jensen) and Barrett Shepherd, and two daughters Stephanie Shepherd and Francesca Shepherd, brother Steve Shepherd (Oliver Roberts), as well as Frances Tompkins the mother of his children, all of Dallas, and several cousins.

The family would like to acknowledge special dear friends Allie Beth Allman, Dr. Jon and Julia Ousley, David Pemberton, J. C. Sterquell, Alina Norman, Darla Chick Brodsky, and Joanna Wood. Honorary Pallbearers are his Old and In the Way group of friends who had lunch one Friday each month for 37 years: Baxter Brinkman, Dick Mullen, Preston Reynolds, J. Emmett Smith, Steve Sands, J. C. Sterquell, Buzz Tompkins, David Tripplehorn, Gary Weber, Daryl Snadon, and Chuck Wilson. Phil was a long-time member of Brookhollow Country Club.
A special thanks goes out to Jack Knox and the Café Pacific staff; Phil held court there most days around happy hour with his wide circle of friends. Next time you are there, raise a toast in his honor.

Services will be held Saturday, July 27, at St. Michael and All Angels Episcopal Church with Reverend Greg Pickens officiating at 2 p.m., located at 8011 Douglas Ave., Dallas, TX 75225. Private interment will be at Sparkman Hillcrest. Donations may be made in his name to Pancreatic Cancer Action Network (pancan.org.) Remembrances and condolences can be expressed by visiting www.ariacremation.com.

Billy Howard Easter, passed away on Tuesday, July 30, 2019 in Graham at the age of 91. 

The family will receive friends at a visitation from 5 to 7 p.m. on Friday, Aug. 2 at Morrison Funeral Home in Graham. Funeral service will be Saturday, Aug. 3 at 10 a.m. in the First Baptist Church with Rev. Richard Segars assisted by Jerry Blake, officiating. Burial will follow in Winn Hill Cemetery under the direction of Morrison Funeral Home.

Billy was born at home on Jan. 21, 1928 in Graham to the late William Stewart Easter and Beulah Howard Easter. His father died when Billy was three years old. He and his two sisters were raised by their widowed mother with the help of their uncle Eli and aunt Carrie. He graduated from Graham High School in 1945, then served two years in the U.S. Navy in 1946-1948. He graduated from Texas Tech with honors in 1951. He received his Master’s degree from Massachusetts Institute of Technology in 1953. He worked for Convair in Fort Worth and taught Electrical Engineering at Texas Tech for eleven years. He attended Oklahoma State University for three years and earned his PhD in Electrical Engineering in 1969. He worked for Texas Utilities in Fort Worth and Dallas as a system fuel analyst for nearly eighteen years taking early retirement in 1987. He then moved back to Graham in 1989 to help his sister, Dorothy care for their aging mother.

He married Joanna Garvey Easter on Feb. 15, 1998 in Graham. Where ever he attended church throughout his life, he sang in the choir and taught Sunday School. He loved his study of the Bible, sharing that with everyone. He and Joanna were very active in their church and loved the ministry with the youth of the community. For ten years they opened and shared their home for teenagers to come to lunch once a week during the school year. They would have a short devotional, wonderful meal and fellowship. They shared a love for the ranch, their cattle and the time they spent working and fishing together. Billy was also an avid collector of G. Harvey art. His thoughtfulness, compassion and kindness touched many hearts through the years. He was loved by all who knew him.

Those preceding him in death are his father, William Stewart Easter, his mother, Beulah Howard Easter, step-son, Bond Garvey, sisters, Dorothy Easter Flint, Margaret Easter Rodden, nephews, Charles Ray Rodden and Spencer Flint.

Remaining to cherish his memory are: his wife, Joanna Garvey Easter; niece, Nancy Bloodworth and husband, Henry; great nephews, David Bloodworth, John Bloodworth and wife, Morgan; great niece, Emily Bloodworth; great great nephew, Brantley Revious; great great niece, Madison Bloodworth.

Michelle Rene Bilberry passed away Sunday, Aug. 4, 2019 in Wichita Falls. A visitation will be held Wednesday, Aug. 7 at 6:30 p.m. at McMillan-Satterwhite Funeral Home.

Michelle was born Oct. 4, 1972 in Galveston to James Curtis Henry, Jr. and Deborah Hilton Henry. She was a loving mother, grandmother, daughter and friend.

She is survived by: her husband Jeff Bilberry; her mother, Deborah Baxter; daughters, Christa Mahurin of Alvarado and Jasmine Smith of Jacksboro; brother James Henry and wife Shannon of Alvarado; sisters, Rebecca Brown and husband Ed of Thayer, Mo., Rhonda Upchurch and husband David of Alvarado, and Regina Holland of Beaumont. She was preceded in death by her father and her sister Rachael Brewer.

Glynon Odell Kite, 88, passed away Friday, Aug. 2, 2019 in Graham. Funeral will be Tuesday, Aug. 6 at 11 a.m. in First Baptist Church Graham. Burial will follow in Pioneer Cemetery under the direction of Morrison Funeral Home.

Odell was born Aug. 22, 1930 in Stonewall County to the late Odis Delois and Alice Eugenia (Watley) Kite. He married JoAnn Solsbery and she preceded him in death in 1982 and he married Charlene Atwood in Graham in 1984. Odell was a veteran of the U.S. Army and was business manager for Graham Independent School District for many years. He was a member of Texas Association of School Business Officials, Graham Lions Club, and First Baptist Church. Odell was an avid Texas Ranger fan and longtime supporter of Graham ISD athletics.

Survivors include: wife, Charlene Kite of Graham; children, Lauren Schott and husband, Joe of Waldorf, MD, Phillip Kite and wife, Glenna of Lubbock, Stephen Kite and wife Penny of Midland, Toby Kite and wife, Bobbie of Lubbock, Keli Petty and husband, Lynn of Corinth, Kristi Copeland and husband, Tommy of Ennis and Robert Atwood and wife, Jill of Abilene; seventeen grandchildren and ten great grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by brothers, Odis D. Kite, Jr. and Weldon L. Kite and sisters, Christine Partain and Bonnie Merlyn Kite.

Visitation was Monday from 6 to 8 p.m. at Morrison Funeral Home.

Memorials may be made to your church, Texas Lions Camp for children in Kerville, or your favorite charity.

Bobbi Jeanenne Higgins, 29, passed away Saturday, Aug. 3, 2019 in Bowie. Funeral services were Thursday, Aug. 8 at 2:30 p.m. in Morrison Funeral Home Chapel. Burial followed in Pioneer Cemetery under the direction of Morrison Funeral Home.

Bobbi was born Sept. 11, 1989 in Albuquerque, N.M. to Brad and Wendy (Whitehurst) Higgins. She graduated from Chico High School and was a CNA for Garden Terrace Nursing Home in Graham and loved her residents. She enjoyed being a mother and absolutely adored her children. Bobbi was such a loving soul and was always happy to help anyone in any way she could.

Survivors include: daughter, Lyllian Grace Barnette of Graham; son, Jaxon Connor Johnson of Chico; mother, Wendy Higgins of Graham; father, Brad Higgins and wife, Staci of Chico; sisters, Nikki Littlepage and husband, Russell of Graham; Maci Lingle of Chico, and Katlynn Steinhauser of Justin; brothers, Thomas Cleve Higgins and wife, Bianca of Wichita Falls, Darrion Riggs of North Carolina, and Baily Pittman of Chico; nieces Skyla Littlepage of Graham and Haley Higgins of Wichita Falls; nephews, Madix Littlepage of Graham and Mason Higgins of Wichita Falls.

On Aug. 7, 2019, Jack Ellet Wiley went to be with his Lord and Savior. He was 93 years young.

Jack was born June 10, 1926 in Graham to Frelon George and Stella Elizabeth (Shoemate) Wiley. Growing up on “the old farm place” just outside Graham on Bunger Route, his father farmed cotton and his mother took care of the home and five children while she raised chickens, sold eggs, and had a large garden. Jack was the youngest child. He helped on the farm and was active in 4-H, raising and showing pigs. In 1940, Jack helped his dad build a new house out of the old existing 1915 farmhouse. He also helped his father build a windmill for cistern water out of old Model-T car parts. Jack kept farm records for 4-H showing that in one year the family made $147. He rode a wooden bus to school in Bunger. Jack’s family lived off what they produced on the farm.

Jack was an excellent student in Graham High School, graduating when he was 16. His senior year, the Navy administered a test and Jack scored high. Jack’s parents gave permission for him to join the Navy, and he was off to Austin for Naval training at the Littlefield House at the University of Texas. As Lt. JG Wiley, he was assigned duty on the U.S.S. Denver, which went, to Quebec and down the east coast to New York City and to Bermuda before it was docked due to the end of the war. Jack was honorably discharged on July 11, 1946. He returned to the University of Texas and finished his mechanical engineering degree in 1948. After graduation he worked for Magnolia Oil Company stationed in Falfurrias where he met his future bride, Holla Jean Edwards on a blind date. His best friend, John Lowe was dating Holla’s best friend, Shirley Cooney. All four of them went on dates to Kings Inn in Riviera to eat seafood and dance. The Lowes tied the knot one month before the Wileys did. Holla and Jack married on Nov. 5, 1949. The Wileys and Lowes remained close friends for the rest of their lives.

After Magnolia Oil Company, Jack worked for Halliburton Oil Services until he retired in 1986 in Corpus Christi. While working for Halliburton, Jack moved several times. His daughter, Rhonda Dee, was born in Mission in 1954. His son, Frelon Boyd, was born in Victoria in 1956. He also had another daughter, Susan Darlene, born in Victoria in 1961. Susan Darlene died shortly after birth. In 1962 the family moved to Corpus Christi where they lived for 30 years.

Jack treated Rhonda like a princess, giving her a horse she loved, and sending her to Veterinary College at Texas A&M University, followed by a beautiful wedding for her and her husband, Nathan E. Bauer, Jr, a fellow veterinary classmate. Rhonda and Nate have two children, Walter Emery Bauer and Susan Elizabeth Bauer. Walter Bauer is currently a Sergeant in the U.S. Army in South Korea. Susan is a Mortgage Consultant, married to Jonathan Michael Orozco. They have two sons, Jack Abraham Orozco (named for his great grandfather, Jack) and Leo Emery Orozco.

Jack hunted and fished with his son, Frelon. He loved Frelon very much, buying him a Toyota Celica, and sending him to the University of Texas to become an architectural engineer. Frelon graduated with his degree in 1978, and worked in Corpus Christi, becoming a partner with James C. Flannagan. Frelon married Brenda Sue Harrison, from Kingsville, whom he met on a blind date. They had a son, Christopher Aaron, who is now a fire fighter in San Antonio. Frelon Boyd died of cancer at M.D. Anderson in Houston June 16, 2000.

In 1995, Jack and Holla built their dream home in Wimberley. Jack made friends with John Blaize, a retired builder in Wimberley, who helped him build the home. This was Jack’s big gift to his Forever Love, Holla Jean. They had a special blessed marriage for 70 years.

Jack grew up a strong Christian, sure in his faith in the Lord Jesus Christ. He instilled in his children and grandchildren and great-grandchildren the importance of praying about everything to God. Jack’s life verse is John 3:16. For God so loved the world that He gave His only Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have eternal life.

Jack leaves behind his wife Holla Jean Wiley, his daughter, Dr. Rhonda Dee Bauer and her husband, Dr. Nathan E. Bauer, Jr. and their children Sgt. Walter E. Bauer and Susan E. (Bauer) Orozco, Susan’s husband Jon M. Orozco, and their children Jack A. and Leo E. Orozco; son Felon Wiley’s wife, Brenda Wiley, and their son, Christopher A. Wiley. Additionally, there are many nieces and nephews and extended family that keep Jack in their hearts.

Jack is preceded in death by his parents, Frelon G. and Stella E. Wiley; all his siblings: Frelon Russell, Irene Creel, Noma Needham, Lucille Kisinger; and his son, Frelon Boyd Wiley and daughter Susan Darlene Wiley.

The family wishes to thank Compassionate Care Hospice for their wonderful care of Jack. We especially thank Chris Briggs for his pastoral care. We also want to thank the many friends who faithfully visited and brought food and flowers to brighten up our days.

A graveside service will be held Friday, Aug. 9 at 11 a.m. with Perry Roberts, officiating at Memory Gardens Cemetery, Victoria, TX. To leave a comforting message, or to share a fond memory, please visit www.gracefuneralhome.net.

Services for Andrew Joseph Gardner, 29, of Sunset, were held at 2 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 8, 2019 at Hudson & Torres Family Funeral Home in Bridgeport, officiated by Rev. Steve King. Burial followed in Jim Ned Cemetery at Runaway Bay. Pallbearers were Josh Oakley, Cedric Evans, Colton Walker, Coledan Messick, Bradley Christiansen, and Josh Roberts. Honorary pallbearers were Michael Poland and Michael Villanueba. Visitation was Wednesday, Aug. 7, also at the funeral home. Andrew passed away late Saturday, Aug. 3 in a traffic accident in Montague County.

Andy was born July 12, 1990 in Brawley, Calif.

Andy was a welder. He also worked in the oilfield. Hobbies included being a shade tree mechanic. His favorite time of the year was RWP. But it was his son Kaiden that was the most important thing in Andy’s life.

He is survived by son Kaiden of Chico;  mother Lisa Gray and husband James of Sunset, father Jesse and Brandie Gardner of Graham, and dad Anthony Adams of Brawley, Calif.; siblings Jesse Gardner, Jr. of Graham, Joshua Gardner and wife Sheri of Bowie, Christopher Gardner of Graham, Cody Gardner and wife Giesi of Coleman, Brittany Gray of Springtown, and Gabriel Gray of Azle; and Shaun, Matt and Misty Adams of Brawley, Calif; grandparents Helen Taylor of Sunset, Steve and Guilda King of Coleman; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Andy was preceded in death by sister Heather Gardner, grandparents ‘Papa’ Don Taylor, and Buster and Eileen Gardner.