Nettie Gayle Thetford, age 89, went to be with the Lord on Sunday, Sept. 5, 2021, Nacogdoches, Texas. Funeral will be 10 a.m. Wednesday, Sept. 8, 2021, at Country Road Fellowship in Graham, Texas, Pastor Joe Finfrock will be officiating. Burial will follow in Finis Cemetery in Jack County under the direction of Morrison Funeral Home.

Gayle was born on July 16, 1932, in the family home near Henry Chapel in Young County. She was the daughter of Lewis Frederick and Ora Myrtle Chestnut Moren and she had a sister, Thena Francis Moren, and two brothers, George Franklin Moren and Robert (Bob) Lee Moren. She married William Carl Thetford Sept. 3, 1949, in Graham. He preceded her in death on July 16, 2018. Gayle was a member of Oak Street Baptist Church and was a member of the Agape Ministry for many years. She loved the Lord and loved her family. Each member knew they were loved by their mom and Granny and she made each one feel very special. She had a comforting and warm way and loved to laugh. Gayle also had many dear friends from Graham, Waco, Nacogdoches, and Possum Kingdom Lake whom she loved. She loved spending time with them all and especially her dear friend and neighbor, Cindy Elsberry. She had a special place in her heart for Pastor Joe Finfrock and his dear wife, Patty Finfrock. Although extremely biased, her family believes she exhibited many, many traits of the Godly woman described in Proverbs 31.

Survivors include: daughter, Lisa Cummings and husband, Daryl of Alto; sons, Rick Thetford and wife, Karan of Graham and Rusty Thetford and wife, Susie of Cedar Hill; grandchildren, Tricia Stone and husband Ed of Haslet, Tonya Schweighofer and husband Joe of Justin, Trent Thetford and wife Kristina of Graham, Danny Thetford and wife Beverly of Huntsville, Alabama, David Thetford of Katy, Sarah Thetford of Fort Worth, Melissa Cummings of Tyler, Amy Ward and husband Danny of Nacogdoches, and Carrie Gist and husband Jarrett of Tyler; twenty great grandchildren; and three great-great grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents, and her three siblings.

Wallace Randolph Cullers was born to Albert Randolph “Dolph” and Ora Box Cullers on March 13, 1928. He passed from this life on Friday, Sept. 3, 2021. He was raised in Bryson, Texas. In 1945, at the age of 18, he volunteered in the U.S. Navy. Wallace graduated from Abilene Christian College in 1951 with a BS in Accounting. While attending ACC, he met Jo Claire Hughes from Pioneer, Texas. They were married on Oct. 13, 1951. Together, they raised four children while moving 10 times between Farmington, Tatum, and Hobbs, NM, to Snyder, Crane, Abilene, then finally settling in Breckenridge, Texas, in 1968.

His life spanned across 10 decades. His employment encompassed a unique set of jobs: roughneck, oilfield tool pusher, transport trucking, real estate agent, home insulation business, personnel manager at Petco, and production superintendent at Damson Petroleum. The work he most enjoyed was being a life-long rancher, from which he retired in 2021. He was a man of character and was honest to the core: so much so that it cost him two jobs! He never compromised his integrity.

Wallace was obedient to the gospel and was baptized into Christ at the age of 14. He and Jo Claire raised their children to be faithful Christians -- always providing them with church fellowship. He coached Little League baseball, softball, and the church basketball league along with sponsoring youth activities with both the church and with the local 4-H club.

He cared for Jo Claire at home for 12 years after her Alzheimer’s diagnosis. He never complained, never lost his sense of humor, and always addressed her as “Sugar”!

Wallace was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Jo Claire; a brother, Cleve Cullers; a grandson, Nic Ellis; and his brother-in-law, James “Bucket” Bailey.

He is survived by three siblings, Sue Bailey of Abilene, Will Ed (Frances) Cullers of Kaufman, Texas, and Windell (Linda) Cullers of Fayetteville, Arkansas; his four children, Glenna (Mark) Fambro and Gay Ellis, both of Breckenridge, Carlton (Jana) Cullers of Comanche, Texas, and Sue (Loyd) Sands of Perry, Oklahoma; eight grandchildren, Marka (Jason) Castillo, Chris (Kristi) Fambro, Luke (Courtney) Fambro, Will (Sarah) Cullers, Amy (Bryan) Stewart, Emily Cullers, Jozie Sands, and Annie Sands; along with his 10 great-grandchildren, Jaxon, Zeke, Mia, McKenna, Conner, Karson, Jack, Kate, Claire, and Aubrey.

Funeral services celebrating Wallace’s life will begin at 10 a.m. Thursday, Sept. 9, 2021, at the Breckenridge Cemetery Pavilion under the direction of Melton-Kitchens Funeral Home. The family will be there at 9 a.m. for anyone who would like to visit before the service begins.

Memorial donations in Wallace’s name can be made to the Haitian Christian Foundation (402 Cypress Suite 511, Abilene, Texas 79601) and may be left at the Melton-Kitchens Funeral Home office. Condolences can be made online at meltonkitchens.com.

Billy Jack Stafford, 82, passed away Sunday, Sept. 5, 2021, in Fort Worth. Funeral will be 2 p.m. Friday, Sept. 10, 2021, at Morningside Baptist Church. Burial will follow at Pioneer Cemetery under the direction of Morrison Funeral Home.

Billy was born Jan. 19, 1939, in Dunn, Texas to the late Eunice Inez (Baker) Stafford and Vernon Edward Stafford. He was a veteran of the United States Army. He married Lillie May Ponder, Jan. 21, 1962, in Graham. She preceded him in death on May 28, 2014. Billy moved to Graham in 1982 from Arlington. He was a former employee of United supermarket in the produce department and a member of Morningside Baptist Church.

Survivors include; daughter, Susan Mixon and husband Beau of Graham; son, Will Stafford and Linda Johnson of Graham; grandchildren, Kayla Mixon, Brayden Mixon, Lela Johnson, Dustin Johnson, and Shonda Johnson; several nieces and nephews also survive.

Kenneth Wayne French, 78, passed away on Sept. 5, 2021, in Wichita Falls, Texas.  Kenneth was born in Graham, Texas, on April 9, 1943, to Dennis and Eloise French.

Kenneth graduated from Graham High School and Tarleton State College. He worked his way through college by working in oil fields and on ranches. Kenneth always loved riding horses and competed in many rodeos across the country. Kenneth taught school for several years and then worked many years at the Hexel Plant in Graham. In later years, he had a private agri-business.

Kenneth was preceded in death by his parents and a brother, Milton French. He is survived by two daughters, Kelli Brown of Austin, and Kecia French of Fort Worth. He is also survived by a sister, Shirley Glover of Wichita Falls, and a brother, Dale French of Houston.

A private family memorial service will be held at a later date.

Bobby Sinyard AKA Uncle Bobby, age 57, passed away in Graham on Tuesday, Sept. 7, 2021. A memorial service will was held on Saturday, Sept. 11, 2021 at 10 a.m. at Morrison Funeral Home Chapel.

Bobby was born on Aug. 17, 1964, in El Paso, to Billy and Manuela (Nellie) (Mendoza) Sinyard.

Bobby is survived by his parents Billy and Manuela Sinyard; daughters, Kimberley Stobaugh and Tamara Wages; brothers, Ricardo Sinyard, Oscar Sinyard, and Daniel Sinyard; sister, Elisa Curtis; grandchildren, Teaguen, Bella, Ci’rus, Alexander, Shaylynn, Christian, Maria, Trisha, Karrieana, and many other children who considered him a grandpa; along with numerous extended family members and friends.

Bobby was preceded in death by his wife, Joanna Dee Sinyard AKA Aunt Dee.

If you knew Bobby or if he touched your life in any way, please come join us as we celebrate his life. The family is asking, if you can, please wear blue.

We know Bobby is up in Heaven now, looking down on all of us. He is with his beloved wife and his father God.

We will miss you Uncle Bobby, son, brother, dad, cousin, and friend.

Bonita (Bonnie) Sue Harrison, 78, of Fort Worth, a loving mother, grandmother, great grandmother, sister and friend passed away on Aug. 21, 2021 in Fort Worth, Texas.

A memorial service will be held from 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 18, at Hawkins Family Funeral Home 2711 Jacksboro Hwy. Fort Worth, TX 76114.

Bonnie was born to James Howard Harrison and Harriet Jane Truesdell in Breckenridge, Texas. Bonnie was a woman with a heart larger than life. Her hobbies in life consisted of reading, sewing, and community involvement, but what she enjoyed the most was taking care of her family. During her life, she was very active in Girl Scouts and Society for Creative Anachronism (SCA) where she enjoyed preparing large, elaborate meals. Her devotion and dedication will forever be remembered and greatly missed by all.

Bonnie was preceded in death by her parents, her brothers James “Butch” Harrison Jr., R.W. Harrison and her sister Helen Elaine Harrison.

Those who are left to honor and celebrate her memory are her daughters Lisa Simmons and husband Tony of North Richland Hills; Sarah Darr and husband Archie of Fort Worth; Suzanne Ban and husband Luke of North Richland Hills; her son Ulysses Anderson of Arlington; her grandchildren Miranda Simmons, Natalie Simmons, Nic Simmons, Anastasia Sandel and husband Austin, Bryan Payne, Alex Ban and Arthur Ban; her great grandchildren Elizabeth, Calhoun and Artemis Sandel; her brothers TJ Gray and wife Cruz of Huckabay and Bob Gray of Odessa; along with extended family members and a host of friends.

Jerry Lynn Caudle, 74, passed away peacefully on Friday, Sept. 10, 2021, at his home in Canadian, TX. Cremation and arrangements are under the direction of Carmichael-Whatley Funeral Directors of Canadian.

Jerry was born July 28, 1947, in Lamesa. He was the son of Rose Nethery Caudle and Hiram Raeburn Caudle. Jerry was a 1965 graduate of Ruidoso High School. He attended New Mexico State University before serving in the United States Army in Turkey as a Nuclear Weapons Maintenance Specialist. As an adult, Jerry worked as a master carpenter in Graham, TX and Ruidoso, NM, teaching the trade to countless others along the way.

Jerry married Dudette Browning in 1971 and together raised their children Jodi Creager, Waylon Scott and Doka Cullender. He married Susan Owens in 1997 and aggravated her for a good 24 years. He and Susan retired to Susan’s hometown of Canadian, TX in 2005, where he was fondly welcomed into the community. He became a strong supporter of Canadian Wildcats football and cherished the friendships made over the shared love of football and family.

Jerry is survived by his wife, Susan Owens Caudle of Canadian; his children, Jodi Creager and husband Danny of Granbury, Waylon Scott of Graham, Doka Cullender and husband Jay of Austin and Keri Maricle of Saginaw, Michigan; his grandchildren, Becca Fuhrmann and husband Dominic of Hico, Kassie Basham of Graham, Bethany Johnson of Graham and Clark Cullender of Austin. He is also celebrated and missed by several great-grandchildren, extended family, dear friends, beloved pets and the local feral cat population that he kept well-fed. Jerry was preceded in death by his parents, and by his brother, Bobby Wayne Caudle.

Jerry loved to joke, tease and spoil his people. If he liked you, you knew it.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Canadian Sports Network, P.O. Box 2, Canadian, Texas 79014.

Carson Dalton Singleton, 33, passed away Sunday, Sept. 12, 2021, as the result of a tragic accident at his home in Murray.

Funeral services will be held Saturday, Sept. 18, 2021, at 10 a.m. in Morrison Funeral Home. Interment will follow at 4 p.m. in Center Valley Cemetery in Hamilton under the direction of Morrison Funeral Home.

Carson was born May 25, 1988, in Olney to Vicky Lynn (Ratliff) Singleton and the late Dempsey Mid Singleton. He graduated from Woodson High School in 2006 where he was an active participant in FFA and Ag Mechanics. Following high school, Carson attended college at Tarleton State University, where he met and fell in love with the love of his life, Mary Jo, in 2008. He graduated college in 2010 with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Rangeland Management. Upon graduation, he was hired by the Natural Resources Conservation Service as a Rangeland Management Specialist.

Carson and Mary Jo’s love story continued as they joined together in holy matrimony on May 4, 2013. Fifteen short days later, the couple welcomed their pride and joy, Kyle Lane, into their family.  

Of all the hats he wore, being “Daddy” was his calling. Carson loved sharing his love of farming and ranching with Kyle. Daddy’s influence is probably why Kyle’s first word was “bine,” short for combine. Together they spent countless hours in the cab of a tractor or combine in the short eight years of Carson’s fatherhood. Carson taught Kyle how to drive pickups and tractors, fix flat tires, repair fence, wire trailer lights, back a trailer and anything else that might give him life skills that were necessary for farm-life. Carson was so proud of his son.

In April 2020, he obtained his dream job as the District Conservationist of the Breckenridge USDA-NRCS Field Office. Carson excelled at sharing his knowledge of conservation practices with local producers to better the world around us.

He was a proud and active member of the Murray Volunteer Fire Department for many years. He loved volunteering to help his community.

Carson was a beloved husband, father, son and friend to many. In fact, he was often late for supper, meetings, etc. because he was frequently stopped on the side of the road helping someone in need. His unexpected passing has left a hole in the hearts of those who loved him, but we rejoice knowing he is Home with his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

Survivors include his wife, Mary Jo; son, Kyle; mother, Vicky Singleton; siblings Michelle Singleton, Candace Edmonson and husband Steve, Janlyn Johnson, Keith Singleton and fiancée Lily, Dempsey N. Singleton and wife Heather, Morgan Singleton; grandmother, Doris S. Walters as well as numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.

He is preceded in death by his father, Dempsey Mid Singleton and uncle, Jim Terry Singleton.

In lieu of flowers, his wife asks that monetary donations be made in his memory to the Murray Volunteer Fire Department, P.O. Box 345, Graham, TX 76450.

Raylan Eugene Kunkel (93) passed away on Sept. 13, 2021, in Graham, Texas. Raylan was born at his family’s home near Olney, Texas, on Feb. 21, 1928, the youngest of five children, to the late Leopold William Kunkel and Minnie Annie (Schlegel) Kunkel. He was baptized and confirmed in St. Luke’s Lutheran Church and attended the rural Lone Oak Schoolhouse, west of Olney, through 8th grade and graduated from Olney High School in 1945.

After high school, Raylan farmed wheat and cotton for his family and worked as a roughneck for R & G Drilling. He lived on the Kunkel Dairy until 1962 when he moved by the Olney Lake to farm and raise cattle. During the late 1960’s he also bought oil leases and built oil production. In 1972, Raylan started Young County Drilling and moved to Graham, Texas, where he continued his career as an oil producer until his retirement in 1990. After retirement, he loved to visit with his friends for coffee at the Dairy Queen in Graham and attended the Graham Oak Street Baptist Church. Raylan’s favorite pastime was hunting. For years, he kept a large kennel of Bluetick Coonhounds. His favorite country musicians were Marty Robbins, Feron Young and George Strait.

Raylan was preceded in death by his parents, siblings: Hildegard (William Riley) McLeland, Gertrude (John Calvin) Jones, Gerhard Kunkel, Leona (James Durwood) Reagan; nephews: Raymond William McLeland, James Cecil Reagan, John Lewis (Mary Ann) Jones; and great-nephew John William McLeland.

He is survived by his daughters: Becky (Jon) Garvey of Loving, TX; Debra (Jim) Kunkel-Rose of Arvada, Co; and their mother, JoAnn Kunkel of Wichita Falls, TX; grandson Travis (Denise) Kunkel of Newcastle, TX; great-granddaughters Suzanna Kunkel and Sarah Kunkel; nieces and nephews: Lorna (Howard) Klinkerman, Mervin Reagan, Lynda (Rusty) Childs, Cynthia (Sid) Broyles, Daniel Robert (Susan) McLeland and by numerous great-nieces, great-nephews and family friends.

Family visitation was held from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Wednesday, Sept. 15, 2021, at Lunn Funeral Home in Olney, TX. Graveside services were held at 10 a.m. on Thursday, Sept. 16, 2021, at Restland Cemetery in Olney, TX. Raylan’s grandson, Travis Kunkel officiated.

Memorials may be made to Solaris Hospice, 2250 South FM 51, Suite 400, Decatur, TX 76234, or to Oak Street Baptist Church, 505 First Street, Graham, TX 76450.

Condolences may be expressed to the family at www.lunnfuneralhome.com.

Jessie Atwood, age 89, passed away Thursday, Sept. 16, 2021, at her home in Graham. Graveside funeral was held at 10 a.m. Monday, Sept. 20, 2021, at Murray Cemetery in Young County. Arrangements were under the direction of Morrison Funeral Home.

Jessie was born on July 18, 1932, in Murray, Texas, to the late Oscar Luther Golden and Beulah Sybil (Burk) Golden. On Sept. 16, 1951, she married the love of her life, Kenneth Ray Atwood, he preceded her in death on June 9, 2015. Jessie was a member of First Baptist Church Graham and a faithful member of the Choir Ministry. Jessie had a full life. She had a passion for music, she played the piano for the Kiwanis club and sang in multiple singing groups for the church and community. You could find her at many sporting events keeping score and she was the ultimate Texas Rangers fan. She was also an avid bowler and loved to read but above all else she loved her family.

Jessie is survived by her children, Billy Atwood and wife Cynthia of Graham, Betsy Henderson and husband Malcolm of Graham, Gary Vaughn and wife Debbie of Kempner, Judy Fambro and husband Randy of Strawn, Janet Lynn and husband Jeff of Noel, Missouri; sister, Jan Evans and husband Larry of Graham; 14 grandchildren; 26 great grandchildren; and two great great grandchildren.

She is preceded in death by her parents, husband, and brothers, Oscar Luther Golden, Jr., Willard Eugene Golden, and Billy Jack Golden.

Memorials may be made to first Baptist Church, Mission ministry.

Carol Jo Forbis went to be with the Lord on Friday, Sept. 17, 2021. She was 83. Funeral Services will be held on Wednesday, Sept. 22, at 10 a.m. at the McMillan-Satterwhite Funeral Home Chapel. Interment will follow at Pioneer Cemetery. Visitation will be held from 6-8 p.m. Tuesday evening at the Funeral Home.

Carol was born Feb. 3, 1938, in Burkburnett to the late Joe Forbis and Dorothy Hall. She resided in Graham most of her life. Carol is a past member of Oak Street Baptist Church. She retired from Helen Farabee Centers. Carol was a member of Graham Noon Lions Club, and the Hospital Auxiliary. She had many friends and family in the Graham area, New York State, Montana, and Nevada. Carol had deep faith in Jesus Christ which she shared with many; her life verse was Psalm 46:10 “Be still and know that I am God.” Carol was faithful in Walk to Emmaus. She was blessed by her family caregivers, especially Maddi Arispe.

She is survived by one Son, David Whiteley and wife Kathy, four Daughters: Teri Brothers and husband Ralph, Dena Peacock, Jana Welch and husband Jerry, and Jodi Arispe and husband Gilbert. Three Brothers; Terry Forbis, Chuck Forbis, and Michael Forbis, Sister Jamie Hanbrick, Ex-Husband Glenn Whiteley. Grandchildren: David, Crystal, Erika, Jaime, William, Nova, Daniel, Kristin, Tina, Theresa, Jerry, Jennifer, Melissa, Rebeca, Bobby, Allison, and Kristina; as well as 47 great-grandchildren and two great-great grandchildren.

She is preceded in death by her father Joe Forbis, Mother Dorothy Bullock, Stepfather Neal Bullock, and three Sisters: Nancy Forbis, Judy Gammil, and Jackie McNeese.

In Lieu of flowers, the family ask that donations be made to the Humane Society of Young County, or Solaris Hospice.

Neal Chadwick Hearne, 45, passed away Saturday, Sept. 18, 2021, in Jacksboro.  Family graveside services were held Monday, Sept. 20, 2021, at 2 p.m. in Loving Cemetery under the direction of Morrison Funeral Home. A memorial service will be held Saturday, Sept. 25, 2021, at 10 a.m. at Loving Baptist Church with Chad Hopkins officiating.

Chad was born April 10, 1976, in Graham to Kimberly (Wilton) Ligon and Neal Fletcher Hearne. He was a Rancher and broke horses. Chad had a kind spirit and he loved everyday nature God provided through ranching. He will be missed by all.  

Survivors include: girlfriend, Jennifer Bennett and her children, Keagen, Kiya and Cammie; sons, Neal Keith Griffin of Vanderbilt and Brody Blue Hearne of Corinth; daughter, Kiya Cinch Cope of Jean; parents, Dennis and Kim Ligon of Loving; brother, Adrian Ligon and wife, Cheryl of Graham; sister, Brittney Ligon of Loving; grandparents, Claude Hearne, Margie Ligon, Juanita Speers, and Vivian Wilton along with numerous Aunts, Uncles, Cousins, Nieces and Nephews.  

He was preceded in death by his father, Neal Hearne; Grandparents, Robert Ligon and Keith Wilton.

Memorials may be made to Faith Community Hospital, 215 Chisholm Trail, Jacksboro, TX 76458.

A private graveside service for Sandra Kay Sparks, of Sulphur Springs, TX, was held at 10 a.m. on Saturday, Sept. 11, 2021, at Restlawn Memorial Park with Pastor Brandon Hollar officiating. Daniel Westlund, Randall Cutburth, Bryan Sparks, Andrew Westlund, Ian Westlund and Rylan (Bear) Sparks will be serving as pallbearers. There will be no formal visitation. Mrs. Sparks passed away on Sept. 7, 2021, at Christus Mother Frances – Sulphur Springs.

Sandy was born on July 4, 1954, in Graham, TX, to Carl and Anita (Robinson) Cutburth. She married Terry Sparks on Sept. 8, 1973, in Loving, Texas. She was a Minister of the Gospel. Sandy was an overseer and member of One Church.

She is survived by her husband, Terry; daughter, Misty Westlund and husband, Daniel; son, Bryan Sparks and wife, Crystal; mother, Anita; brother Randall Cutburth and wife, Brenda; grandchildren, Andrew Westlund, Zoë Westlund, Ian Westlund, Brailey Sparks and Rylan (Bear) Sparks and numerous nieces, nephews, and friends that were like family.

Sandy was preceded in death by her dad, Carl.

In lieu of flowers, please send donations to Peace to the Nations to advance the Gospel to P.O. Box 496 Royse City, TX 75189.

Arrangements under the direction of Murray-Orwosky Funeral Home.

The online register can be signed at www.murrayorwosky.com.

Carolyn Bobo, 84, of Colorado City, Texas, passed away peacefully at Coleman County Medical Center on Wednesday, Sept. 15, 2021. Carolyn was born on June 25, 1937, to Brice and Sadie Suggs in DeQueen, Arkansas.

She is survived by siblings Lucille Gresham and husband Maurice of Waynesboro, Virginia, Jack Suggs and wife Susan of Chesterfield, Missouri, and sister Kathleen Suggs of Benton, Arkansas, as well as many nieces and nephews.

On Dec. 17, 1955, she married James R. Bobo, going on to have four children, Cindy, Lisa, James, and Bruce. Carolyn was preceded in death by her parents and her husband, James.

She is survived by her children: Cindy Coghlan and husband Paul of Brownwood, Texas, Lisa Andrews and husband Darrell of Loraine, Texas, James “Jim” Bobo and wife Angela of Graham, Texas and Bruce Bobo of Colorado City, Texas. Also surviving are five grandchildren: Ashley Thompson and husband Phillip of Roscoe, Texas, Jacob Bobo and wife Lisa of Lake Dallas, Texas, Cody Andrews and wife Heather of Loraine, Texas, Courtney Robertson and husband Craig of Fort Worth, Texas and Joshua Andrews and wife Bailey of Snyder, Texas. Also surviving are six great-grandchildren: Emalynn and Gavin Thompson, Kennedy Andrews, Dot Robertson and Elise and Hayden Bobo.

Graveside service at Colorado City Cemetery will be held Friday, Sept. 24, 2021, at 10 a.m. under the direction of McCoy Funeral Home, Sweetwater, Texas. Service by Gene Self and Larry Wooldridge of Little Hope Primitive Baptist Church, Graham, Texas. No formal visitation is planned but the family will be receiving guests at 220 E 13th Street, Colorado City, Texas on Thursday, Sept. 23, 2021, from 4 p.m. - 8 p.m.

Online condolences may be expressed at www.mccoyfh.com.

Dr. Jewel Glenn Rainwater, 90, passed away peacefully Sept. 10, 2021. Joe was born in Walnut Ridge, Arkansas to Clarence E. and Alpha Christine Ball Rainwater. He married Joyce Lanell Fulbright on Nov. 12, 1951.

He was preceded in death by his parents Clarence and Alpha Rainwater, wife Joyce (married just shy of 60 years); sisters Twana and Jean; brothers Lawrence and Marion Hugh; granddaughter Amanda; great-grandson Trenton; and great-granddaughter Terra.

He is survived by his daughter, Johanna Dye and husband Leo of Bulverde, TX; sons, Jim Rainwater and wife Sharon of San Antonio, TX, and John Rainwater and wife Julie of Graham, TX; five grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren; brother Raymond and his wife Gwen; numerous nieces and nephews, extended family, and countless friends.

Joe grew up in Walnut Ridge, AR, where he played football at both Walnut Ridge High School and in college. He joined the U.S. Air Force and served with distinction, leaving as a master sergeant. He went on to college and obtained his PhD in Chemical Engineering from the University of Arkansas where he was an instructor of Chemical Engineering from 1957-1960 and Assistant Professor of Chemical Engineering from 1960-1965. While working in St Louis, MO, he took several summers off to work on the Hydrogen Bomb project in Oak Ridge, TN. He later worked for Texas Instruments, Graham Magnetics, and Carlyle Industries. While at Texas Instruments he was instrumental in developing new processes resulting in several patents for magnetic tape manufacturing, chip capacitors, blow molding systems, etc. for the computer industry.

Prior to and after retirement, he remained very active in the Presbyterian Church where he served as both a Deacon and Elder and supported the Stephan’s Ministry. When not working, Joe greatly enjoyed living life to the fullest. He was always willing to help anyone that was in need. He loved camping, taking his RV on fishing trips where he would fly fish for trout, lake fish for bass, and just enjoyed the great outdoors. One of the activities he enjoyed the most was spending time with his family, especially with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

A viewing will be held at Roller-Crouch Funeral Home of Batesville, Arkansas Friday, Sept. 24, 2021, at 1 p.m. to be followed by a graveside service at 2 p.m. at Pleasant Valley Cemetery in Cushman. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America, 322 Eighth Avenue, 16th Floor, New York, NY 10001.

Coy Dwayne Willis, age 71, after a courageous 3-month battle with a lung illness, was welcomed to his eternal home by our Lord and Savior, with his sweetheart Kay, by his side on Sept. 18, 2021. Funeral will be Wednesday, Sept. 22, 2021, at 2 p.m. at Morrison Funeral Home Chapel. Burial will follow at Pioneer Cemetery under the direction of Morrison Funeral Home. 

Born Jan. 4, 1947, to Troy O. Willis and Lillie Mae Abney Willis in Brownfield, Texas, in a small three-room house, he joined the Army National Guard in 1964 and served for seven years and six months, receiving an Honorable Discharge as a Sergeant E-5.

Coy attended Lubbock High School and had continuing education at Boston College and Texas A&M University.

He worked various jobs until he accepted a job in Animal Control with the City of Lubbock, were he found one of his great passions…a love for animals. After Lubbock, he continued his career at Ector County and the City of Odessa as Animal Control Director. He then moved to the city of Midland to continue that same career path as Director of Animal Control until retiring after 23 years of service.

Coy married the love of his life, Kay Bishop Willis of Graham, Texas, on Feb. 17, 2001. Coy and Kay then returned to Graham in 2007 and joined the Salem-Crestview United Methodist Church, where he was called to be a Lay Leader and music leader.

Coy served the Texas Animal Control Association for 20 years and the National Animal Control Association for five years. He was on the Executive Boards of Directors, an Executive Officer and served as President for TACA for three terms and President for NACA for one term. He also served on the Texas Department of Health Committees holding positions of Resource Advisors, Ad-HOC Committee, and assisted with the Maddie Fund. Coy participated with the Texas Humane Legislative Network, testifying on Animal Care Issues in both the Texas State Senate and Texas House of Representative Committees as well as a Resource Advisor and Telephone Action Group for many years. Among these associations, Coy also was Advisor on the Continuing Education Training Committee on Animal Control at Texas A&M University and on the Veterinary Technician Program Advisory Committee at Midland College. There are numerous organizations, committees, and associations he served proudly on to aid in educating, investigating, and legislating for animals. He was steadfast in his commitment and served with passion. He was a man of integrity in his field and respected and loved by many of his peers, making lifelong friends of many of those he served with. One of his greatest honors was having an award name for him in the Texas Animal Control Association known as the Coy D. Willis Outstanding Management Award given out at their yearly conference.

He had many hobbies. He was a founding member of a band called Midnight Stampede in Midland where they frequently played around town. He loved serving his church with Kay in any capacity needed. Over the years he played golf, tennis, and loved horses and fishing, especially with family. He loved feeding his birds with the many bird feeders in their back yard and watching the different kinds of visitors he received. He loved his family like no other. Family was a priority, and he was always available when needed by them. Probably his most favorite pastime was serenading his beloved wife Kay every evening at home. They were inseparable and their loved for each other did not go unrecognized. Coy was preceded in death by his father Troy O. Willis, mother Lillie Mae Abney Willis, and brothers, Troy Lee Willis, John H. Willis and Roy W. Willis, and granddaughter Kourtney Rene Cates.

Coy is survived by his committed and loving wife Kay Willis, daughters Brenda and husband Roel Claessens of Haskell, Texas; Barbara and husband Fred Cates of Stanton, Texas; Bobbie and husband Richard Barksdale of Abilene, Texas and Joy and husband Roger Peterson of Camp Lejeune, North Carolina. He is also survived by his brother Jimmy Willis and sister Annette Willis Riggs and husband Ronnie Riggs, all of Post, Texas, as well as his special sister-in-law, Carolyn Rae Willis of Lubbock, Texas. Other loves in his life include April Fulwider, Rocky Tindle and Dusty Tindle, all of Midland, Texas.

Coy has left a wonderful legacy his many grandchildren and great grandchildren will be able to look back on and admire. He had a love so strong for each one and it will be a truly missed and irreplaceable gift they have enjoyed over the years. A very proud grandfather, indeed. To honor Coy’s memory, in lieu of flowers, please make donations to the Humane Society of Young County, 120 Craig St., Graham, TX 76450.

Visitation will be Tuesday 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. in the Morrison Funeral Home Chapel.

Reymundo Guerrero, age 74, passed away in Graham on Tuesday, Sept. 21, 2021. A funeral service will be held at Morrison Funeral Home Chapel on Saturday, Sept. 25, 2021, at 10 a.m. Burial will follow in Pioneer Cemetery under the direction of Morrison Funeral Home.  

Reymundo was born on Oct. 27, 1946, in Haskell Texas to Jose Guerrero and Emilia (Chapa) Guerrero.  

He proudly served his country in the United States Army from 1966 to 1968 stationed in Bamberg Germany.  

Reymundo married the love of his life Narcissa (Olivarez) Guerrero on June 1, 1968, in Sebastian Texas and together they raised three children.  

Shaped by his working career primarily in the Oil industry, Reymundo, Narcissa, and their children lived in the Texas towns of Whitesboro, Snyder, Iowa Park, and ultimately Graham. He made many friends living and working in Graham, spending years employed by Ray Black Ford, and his most recent employer, L Chem Tech.  

Reymundo played baseball as an athletic youth, and in later years became a beloved baseball coach to many young ballplayers in Snyder.  

A follower of all sports, he pulled for the Rangers, Mavericks, and Stars, but cheered loudest for his football teams the Dallas Cowboys and Texas Longhorns.  

Reymundo found joy in traveling the United Sates with his family.  

His artistic drive was his love of music. Naturally gifted with a wonderful singing voice, he played guitar, wrote songs, and sang for those close to him all his life.  

Reymundo is survived by his wife, Narcissa Guerrero of Graham; children, Javier (Harvey) Guerrero of Iowa Park, Texas, Monica McMullen of Stephenville, Texas, and Rebecca Jones of Dublin, Texas; and five grandchildren.  

He was preceded in death by his parents Jose Guerrero and Emilia Guerrero, brothers Remijio Guerrero and Reynaldo Guerrero, and sisters Lucia Balderas and Elva Castillo.

Don Allen Eason, 88, passed away Tuesday, Sept. 21, 2021, in Graham. Funeral services were held Friday, Sept. 24, 2021, at 10 a.m. at Pioneer Cemetery under the direction of Morrison Funeral Home.

Don was born July 30, 1933, to Erving and Daisy Parrish Eason in Jacksboro, Jack County, TX. He married Barbara Ann Ford in Jacksboro, TX, on June 22, 1956.

He is survived by: Son, Monte H. Eason of Graham, and son Jeffrey A. Eason and wife, Melissa of Trophy Club, TX; four grandchildren, six great grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.

Don was true Texas “Son” and Cowboy for his entire life. He loved to be outdoors and traveling in his retirement. He loved a good joke or prank on old friends.  Don also served our country during the Korean War in 1954 to 1955.

He was preceded in death by wife Barbara A. Eason, son, Don Allen Eason, Jr., daughter, Angela K Shifflett, son-in-law, Michael E. Shifflett, granddaughters, Liberty Donrae’ Shifflett and Calyne Cay Shifflett, brothers, Chester, Arden, Thaddus and Loye; and sisters, Ermin, Etha and Lola.

In lieu of flowers, please make a charitable donation to Young County Animal Shelter.

The Graham Regional Medical Center Board of Trustees voted Thursday to adopt a new tax effective tax rate and budget for the fiscal year 2022. Following a unanimous vote, the adopted tax rate for FY 2022 is $0.339400 per $100 valuation which begins Friday, Oct. 1.

The approved rate is the No-New-Revenue Rate as figured by the Young Central Appraisal District. This rate will raise the same amount of property tax revenue for the hospital in both the 2020 and 2021 tax years.

Outgoing Chief Financial Officer Jeff Casbeer said the hospital is budgeting a total net revenue of $22.3 million for FY 2022 with a total operating expense of $23.6 million. This sets the operating EBIDA (earnings before interest, depreciation and amortization) at a loss of $1.3 million and increases the loss to just over $3 million after depreciation.

For the rest of the story, see the Sept. 25 edition of The Graham Leader.

Gina Michelle Grimes, 56, passed away Sept. 21, 2021. She was born Sept. 1, 1965, in Olney, Texas to Charles Eugene Grimes and Robbye Nell Norman Grimes.

She attended school in Graham and graduated in 1984. Gina attended Midwestern State University and graduated with a Bachelor of Science. She worked as an X-Ray Tech and a teacher. Her greatest love in life were her three children. She was passionate about reading, George Strait, Judge Judy, and her dog Jack. She was a member of Oak Street Baptist Church.

Survivors include her daughter: Julia Michelle Grimes of Graham, TX; sons: Robb Gene Grimes; Scott Ryan Grimes, both of Graham, TX; brother: Norman Grimes; sisters; Beckie Grimes Herchman; Geri Grimes Catron: many nieces; nephews; other relatives and a host of friends. Gina was preceded in death by her parents.   

Funeral Services were held at 11 a.m. Friday, Sept. 24, 2021, at the Oak Street Baptist Church in Graham, TX, with interment following at Pioneer Cemetery under the direction of McMillan-Satterwhite Funeral Home. A visitation was held at 6 p.m. – 8 p.m. Sept. 23, 2021, at the McMillan-Satterwhite Funeral Home Chapel.