THELMA LEE EBERHARDT
Thelma Lee Eberhardt, 94, went to be with the Lord on Thursday, January 15, 2004, in a local hospital. Mrs. Eberhardt was preceded in death by her husband, Fredrick W. in 1984, three brothers, two sisters and one niece. Thelma and Fredrick were two of the founding members of the First United Methodist Church of Kennedale, and they were very involved with various groups within the church. She was also involved with the Kennedale Senior Citizens Center and demonstrated her love for her community by trying to help out whenever she could. Thelma also belonged to the Unique Club. Funeral services were held on Friday, January 16 at Emerald Hills Memorial Chapel, with burial at Emerald Hills Memorial Park. Mrs. Eberhardt is survived by sisters, Billie Hoover and husband, Joe, Maxine Thomas and husband, Elder; nieces, Sue Jordan and family, Carla Lofton and family, Sandra Watson and family, Glenda Rudisill and family; nephews, Larry Hoover and family, and Benny Maxwell. Memorial donations may be made to: VITAS Hospice at Baylor All Saints Hospital, 1400 8th Ave, C3 South, Fort Worth, Texas 76104.

JOYCE HAMBLETON
Burleson -- Joyce Hambleton, 64, a loving wife, mother, grandmother and friend, passed away on Tuesday, February 10, 2004, in a local hospital of natural causes. Funeral services were held at 7:00 p.m. Friday, February 13 at Laurel Land of Burleson Memorial Chapel. Visitation was 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. Friday at the funeral home. Joyce was an avid bowler in both Nebraska and then later here in Texas. In the past she held various offices in the different bowling associations and had a love for the game. Joyce was an outgoing and caring person who will be dearly missed by her family and many friends. Joyce is survived by her best friend and husband of 34 years, Carlos Hambleton of Burleson; children, Jina Huerta and husband, Steve, of Kileen, Jeff Grant and wife, Julie, of Cozad, Nebraska; grandchildren, Stephanie and Heather Huerta, Kaleb and Kyle Grant; mother, Velma Hannawald of Hastings, Nebraska; brothers, George Yerger and wife, Jan, of Hastings, Nebraska; sister, Lois Youngs and husband, Al, of Portola, California; numerous nieces and nephews; mother-in-law, Ruth Hambleton of Englewood, Ohio; sister-in-law, Nancy Hofele and husband, Chuck, of Tipp City, Ohio. Memorials may be sent to the Burleson Volunteer Fire Department, Briaroaks Station; the Fort Worth Woman's Bowling Association; or the Johnson County Woman's Bowling Association. Laurel Land Funeral Home of Burleson was in charge of arrangements. 817-295-5211

LOUIS LYNDEL "LEONARD" KOLAR
Joshua - Louis Lyndel "Leonard" Kolar, 43, a drywall contractor, died Tuesday, February 10, 2004, at a local hospice house. Funeral services were held at 2:00 p.m. Friday, February 13 at Mountain Valley Chapel. Burial was at Burleson Memorial Park. Visitation was 7:00 to 9:00 p.m. Thursday at Mountain Valley Funeral Home. Lyndel went home to be with his Lord on February 10, 2004, after a long, courageous battle with cancer. He enjoyed raising and fighting game roosters in years past. Lyndel was preceded in death by his grandparents, Jim and Maty Lovell and Frank and Annie Kolar. He is survived by his parents, Albin and Kathin Kolar of Joshua; brothers, James Morris of Burleson and Doyle Kolar of Joshua; sister, Gloria Roe of Whitney; numerous aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and cousins. Mountain Valley Funeral Home of Burleson was in charge of arrangements. 817-517-5995

ROBERT DONALD TAFT
Burleson - After a long and courageous battle with lung cancer, Robert Donald Taft, loving father and grandfather entered rest on Tuesday, February 10, 2004, surrounded by family and friends. A memorial service will be held at 10:30 a.m. Monday, February 16 at Broadway Baptist Church, 305 W. Broadway Avenue in Fort Worth. Pastors Brett Younger and Jorene Taylor Swift will officiate. Visitation will be from 9:00 a.m. until service time on Monday at the church. A graveside service will be held at 3:00 p.m. Monday, February 16 at Dallas-Fort Worth National Cemetery, 2000 Mountain Creek Parkway in Dallas. On September 5, 1927, Robert was born to Nellie and Harold Taft, Sr. in Enid, Oklahoma. After graduating high school in 1945, and at the age of seventeen, he and his close friend Jack Cutbirth joined the Merchant Marines and served in WWII. Then he served as an Intelligence Officer in the Air Force during the Korean Conflict. Following his graduation from the University of Oklahoma, where he was a member of Sigma Chi Fraternity, he moved to Fort Worth where he and his brother Harold were in several ventures together, including Church Bonds. One of the pleasures these two brothers shared was the hunting trips they took to the mountains of Colorado. Later Bob worked in land development and the sale of health insurance. More recently, he and a longtime friend were involved in an ongoing business project in central Texas. Bob was always a history buff and loved to talk about his family's involvement in the history of Oklahoma. In later years, Bob and his wife, Jody, found joy and gave joy with their carefully tended rose garden. He and his wife were famous among family and friends for their Christmas cookies and candies. Bob is survived by his wife, Jody; daughters, Robbie Wood and Beth Fincher; stepson, Paul Buening II; four grandchildren; sisters, Patsy Brown, Annette Northcutt, Mary Lou Bond, Judy Levy; numerous nieces and nephews; and a host of other relatives and friends. Memorials may be made to Community Ministries of Broadway Baptist Church in Fort Worth. Services under the direction of Brown-Cummings Funeral Home of Enid, Oklahoma. (580) 237-5432

DAVID J. CERMAK
Burleson-David J. Cermak, 61, passed away Sunday, February 8, 2004 in Fort Worth. Funeral services will be held at 12 noon on Friday, February 13 at Laurel Land Chapel of Burleson. Burial will be at Burleson Memorial Park. Visitation is 6 to 8 pm. Thursday at Laurel Land of Burleson Funeral Home. Mr. Cermak is survived by his wife of 41 years, Nancy; children, David J. Cermak II and wife, Catherine, Dawn Mercer, Scott Cermak and wife, Michele; siblings, Blase and wife, Julia, Charles and Susan Cermak; grandchildren, Clayton, Rachel, Cade, Shannon, Morgan, David III and one on the way. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Cancer Care Services (817) 921-0653. Laurel Land Funeral Home of Burleson is in charge of the arrangements. (817) 295-5211

HENRY WINTON HARRIS
BENBROOK -- Henry Winton Harris, 68, a wonderful husband, dad and granddad, died Tuesday, February 3, 2004, at a local hospital. Funeral services were held at 2 p.m. Saturday, February 7 at Trinity Hills Baptist Church in Benbrook. Dr. Larry Sanders officiated, assisted by great-nephew Jason McGuire. Pallbearers were Randy Harris, Roy Harris, Allan Harris, Mike Harris, Wayne McGuire, Larry McGuire, Monroe McGuire, Ricky Agee. Burial was at Benbrook Cemetery. Visitation was noon to 5 p.m. Thursday and 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Friday at the funeral home, and 5 to 8 p.m. Friday at the church. Henry was born January 17, 1936, in Tom Green County to the late Artie and Roxie Holland Harris. A longtime Benbrook resident, he was a member of Trinity Hills Baptist Church. He retired from Borden Milk as a supervisor. Henry dedicated many years to the Benbrook Lions Club, was loved by many, and will be missed by all who knew him, especially his coffee drinking friends at the Waffle House. In addition to his parents, Henry was preceded in death by three brothers and two sisters. He is survived by his wife of 48 years, Louise Harris of Benbrook; children, Debbie Brookshier and husband, Todd, of Benbrook, Denise Andress and husband, Rickey, of Haskell, and Steve Harris and wife, Dana, of Benbrook; brother, Buryl Harris of River Oaks; sister, Geneva Bloodworth and husband, Earnest, of San Angelo; grandchildren, Sherry and Mike, Josh, Matt, Michael, Judith, Ashley and Alicia; great-grandchildren, Wyatt, Nattalee and Ella; numerous nieces and nephews; and a host of friends. Services under the direction of Mid-Cities Funeral Home of Haltom City. (817) 838-3370

ROLLA DUANE COLE
BURLESON -- Rolla Duane Cole, 89, a retired world-known aerobatic pilot, passed away Tuesday, February 3, 2004, at a Fort Worth care center. Funeral services will be at 2:00 p.m. Sunday, February 8 at Mountain Valley Chapel. Burial will be at Laurel Land Memorial Park, Fort Worth. Visitation is 7:00-9:00 p.m. Saturday at Mountain Valley Funeral Home. The family would appreciate memorials to The Duane Cole Memorial Fund, 731 N. W. Tarrant, Burleson, TX 76028. Duane was born April 1, 1914, in Toulon, IL, the son of Rolla Henry and Mable Loesch Cole. He married the former Julia Marie Hippe on November 22, 1937, in San Bernardino, CA. He always called her Judy. During the war, he taught military pilots in California. In 1946, Duane with three of his brothers, Arnold, Lester and Marion, started the Cole Brothers Airshow. Duane was a founding member of the Experimental Aircraft Association as well as the Reno Air Races. He won the National Aerobatic Championship twice and was on the first American team to fly in Europe. He published eight books and produced three videotapes on aviation. His son Rolly flew in the airshow with his mother Judy who rode the wing. His son John announced the airshow and daughter Karen was there for moral support. His son Rolly preceded him in death on August 3, 1963. Duane and Judy have lived in a care facility for the past year and a half, both with progressive Alzheimers Disease. Duane passed quietly and quickly at 6:20 a.m. on Tuesday. Duane is survived by his wife of 66 years, Judy Cole of Burleson; son, John Cole of San Francisco, CA; daughter, Karen Allard and husband, Charles, of Burleson; brothers, Marion Cole of Shreveport, LA, Lester Cole of Phoenix, AZ; sister, Bernice Booker of Peoria, IL; granddaughter, Julia Martin and great-grandchildren, Nicole Martin and Alexandra Martin, all of Carlsbad, NM. Mountain Valley Funeral Home of Burleson is in charge of arrangements. (817) 517-5995

MILDRED COLEMAN
BURLESON -- Mildred Coleman, 82, a retired school teacher, died Saturday, January 31, 2004 at a Fort Worth hospital. Funeral services will be held at 2:00 p.m., Wednesday, February 4 at Mountain Valley Funeral Home Chapel in Burleson. Burial will be at Burleson Memorial Park. Visitation is 6-8 p.m. Tuesday at the funeral home. Mrs. Coleman was born August 27, 1921 in Kopperl. She married William Coleman in Johnson County. She was a 6th grade school teacher for Alvarado ISD for 42 years, and attended the Burleson Church of Christ. Mrs. Coleman was preceded in death by her husband in 1967. She is survived by daughter, Robin Coleman of Burleson; brother, Robert Stanley of Stephenville; grandchildren, Taylor, Rainey, and William. Mountain Valley Funeral Home of Burleson is in charge of arrangements. (817) 517-5995

VELMA ROBERTSON
ALVARADO -- Velma Alice Berry Robertson, 87, beloved mother and grandmother, died Wednesday, January 28, 2004 at a Dallas hospital. Funeral services were held at 11 a.m. Saturday, January 31 at the First United Methodist Church in Alvarado. Burial was at Glenwood Cemetery in Alvarado. Visitation was 6 to 8 p.m. Friday at the funeral home. Memorials may be sent to Community Hospice of Texas, The First United Methodist Church of Alvarado Scholarship Fund, Texas State Library - Talking Books Program. Velma was born in Tyler on April 8, 1916 to Andrew Jackson Berry and Mary Alice Ritchie Berry. She grew up in Dallas where she met her husband of 56 years, Willard Robertson. They moved to Alvarado in 1954 where they owned and operated the Robertson Agency for 30 years. She lived the last nine years at Huguley Place in Burleson with many good friends and a wonderful staff for support. Velma was a kind and loving person who always saw the good in people and situations. She was devoted to her family and loved to have them gathered around her table for wonderful meals, games and lively discussions. She was an active member of the First United Methodist Church in Alvarado and involved in many school and community organizations. Through the Robertson Agency, Velma and Willard provided services well beyond the scope of insurance and real estate. Willard was the idea person and Velma was the one who made the details come together for pine tree giveaways and countless other community causes. They were a terrific team. Velma died as she lived... in peace, surrounded by her family. Her gentle spirit will be missed by all whose lives she touched. Velma was preceded in death by her husband, parents and four brothers. She is survived by four children, Walter Robertson and wife, Betty, of San Diego, James Robertson and wife, Marilee, of Irving, Mary Nell Robertson of Irving and Betty Robertson of Pflugerville; four grandchildren,Scott Robertson and wife, Michelle, of New York City, Susanne Robertson of San Diego, Jay Robertson of Lewisville and Julie Robertson of Irving; several nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. Crosier-Pearson-Mayfield Funeral Home of Burleson/Fort Worth was in charge of arrrangements. 817-568-8836

MILDRED BABER HUFF
JOSHUA -- Mildred Baber Huff, left us January 28, 2004, at the age of 84.She passed away peacefully at her home in the company of her husband and loved ones. Funeral services were held at 10:00 a.m., Saturday, January 31 at Mountain Valley Funeral Home Chapel with Dr. David Hampton officiating. Burial was at Skyvue Memorial Gardens. Visitation was 7-9 p.m. Friday at the funeral home. Mrs. Huff was born March 27, 1919 to Patrick and Lucy Baber in Wichita Falls. She was their only child. She married Olin D. Huff at her parents home near Happy, Texas in August of 1938. She and Olin were married 65 years. She enjoyed travel and selling. She was a good housekeeper. They lived in Richland Hills for about 20 years, also Canyon, Austin, Sulpher Springs, and Searcy, Arkansas. Mrs. Huff was preceded in death by her parents. She is survived by her husband, Olin D. Huff; daughters, Dr. Patricia Cox of Searcy, Arkansas, Charlotte Ertelt and husband, Rev. Milton Ertelt, of Joshua; granddaughters, Dr. Deborah Cox-Hulgus and husband, Dr. Joe Hulgus, of Springfield, Missouri, Annelle King and husband, Tim, of Littlerock, Arkansas, Rebekah Cox of Portland, Oregon, Leah Cox of Springfield, Missouri; grandsons, Michael Cox and wife, Jenny, of Ozark, Missouri, David Ertelt and wife, Tracie, of Cleburne; great-granddaughters, Katie King, Jana King, Allison Ertelt, and Lakyn Cox; great-grandsons, Mathew King, Colton Cox and A.J. Hulgus. Mountain Valley Funeral Home of Burleson was in charge of arrangements. (817) 517-5995

DONNY WALTER BAXTER
Burleson - Donny Walter Baxter, 37, a salesman for The Fort Worth Star-Telegram, passed away Tuesday, January 27, 2004, at a local hospital. Funeral services were held at 1 p.m. Friday, January 30 at Crosier-Pearson-Mayfield Funeral Home in Burleson. Burial was at Georges Creek Cemetery. Visitation was 6 to 9 p.m. Thursday at the funeral home. Donny was a lifelong resident of Burleson and attended The Church at Burleson. He was a loving father, devoted son and brother, and a friend to all who knew him. Donny was preceded in death by his father, Lee Roy Baxter, Jr.; and his grandmother, Lucille Goodwin. He is survived by son, Donny Joseph Baxter and his mother, Neva; parents, Cinda and Sam Morton; fiancee, Cheryl Schuerg; sister, Jackie Griffith and her husband, Wes; brother, Travis Baxter and his wife, Debbie; niece and nephews, Travis Jr. and Derek Baxter and Kelli and Wesley Griffith; and numerous aunts, uncles and cousins. Crosier-Pearson-Mayfield Funeral Home of Burleson handled the arrangements. 817-568-8836

VELMA ROBERTSON
ALVARADO -- Velma Alice Berry Robertson, 87, beloved mother and grandmother, died Wednesday, January 28, 2004 at a Dallas hospital. Funeral services were held at 11 a.m. Saturday, January 31 at the First United Methodist Church in Alvarado. Burial was at Glenwood Cemetery in Alvarado. Visitation was 6 to 8 p.m. Friday at the funeral home. Memorials may be sent to Community Hospice of Texas, The First United Methodist Church of Alvarado Scholarship Fund, Texas State Library - Talking Books Program. Velma was born in Tyler on April 8, 1916 to Andrew Jackson Berry and Mary Alice Ritchie Berry. She grew up in Dallas where she met her husband of 56 years, Willard Robertson. They moved to Alvarado in 1954 where they owned and operated the Robertson Agency for 30 years. She lived the last nine years at Huguley Place in Burleson with many good friends and a wonderful staff for support. Velma was a kind and loving person who always saw the good in people and situations. She was devoted to her family and loved to have them gathered around her table for wonderful meals, games and lively discussions. She was an active member of the First United Methodist Church in Alvarado and involved in many school and community organizations. Through the Robertson Agency, Velma and Willard provided services well beyond the scope of insurance and real estate. Willard was the idea person and Velma was the one who made the details come together for pine tree giveaways and countless other community causes. They were a terrific team. Velma died as she lived... in peace, surrounded by her family. Her gentle spirit will be missed by all whose lives she touched. Velma was preceded in death by her husband, parents and four brothers. She is survived by four children, Walter Robertson and wife, Betty, of San Diego, James Robertson and wife, Marilee, of Irving, Mary Nell Robertson of Irving and Betty Robertson of Pflugerville; four grandchildren,Scott Robertson and wife, Michelle, of New York City, Susanne Robertson of San Diego, Jay Robertson of Lewisville and Julie Robertson of Irving; several nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. Crosier-Pearson-Mayfield Funeral Home of Burleson handled the arrangements. 817-568-8836

DONALD ALLEN CARROLL, SR.
Burleson -- Donald Allen Carroll, Sr., 77, a retired operation supervisor for the U.S. Air Force, passed away Saturday, January 24, 2004. Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m., Friday, January 30 at Baumgardner Chapel, Crowley. Burial will be at Dallas/Fort Worth National Cemetery with full honors. Visitation is from 6 to 8 p.m. on Thursday at Baumgardner Funeral Home. Mr. Carroll was a 27 year veteran of the U.S. Air Force and Air National Guard, retiring at the rank of Chief Master Sergeant. He served in the Pacific Theatre during WWII. At the end of the war he was assigned in Nationalist China as an Air Force advisor, based in Peiping, now Beijing. As the Nationalist government fled the mainland to Formosa, Mr. Carroll was the last American unit evacuated. He served at the American Embassy in Beiruit and in the historic 509th Bomb Wing at Walker A.F.B. Mr. Carroll also served in Los Negros Island, Saudi Arabia, Southeast Asia, Europe and Vietnam. Throughout his distinguished career, Mr. Carroll was awarded more than 28 medals including: the Bronze Star Medal in June 1971 as Command and Control Superintendent, 21st Tactical Air Support Squadron in Vietnam, and the Meritorious Service Medal in June 1973 as Superintendent, Command and Control Division, Deputy Commander for Operations, 7th Bombardment Wing, Carswell A.F.B. He made two trips around the world and was stationed at bases in Colorado, Ohio, New Mexico, New Hampshire, Massachusetts, Nevada, England and Texas, where he retired. Mr. Carroll was a 32nd Degree Mason, Essex Lodge, A.F. & A.M. in Salem, Massachusetts where he served as lecturer and transferred to the Burleson Lodge 649, a Moslah Shriner, deacon of several Baptist Churches and city councilman. Mr. Carroll was devoted to his country and family and will live on in their hearts and memories. Mr. Carroll was preceded in death by his parents, Milford and Anna Margaret Carroll; brothers, Henry Carroll and Woodrow Carroll; and sister, Edna Cottle. He is survived by his wife of more than 54 years, Caroline Carroll; son, Don Carroll, Jr.; daughters Linda Carroll Lenander, Bonnie Carroll Peterson, Patricia Carroll Johnson and Catherine Carroll Chambers; brothers, Prentice Carroll and Maurice Carroll; sister, Clemma Adams; grandchildren, Dawn Lenander Zigler, Chad Lenander, Ami Leal, Amber Plehal, Melanie Keenan, Andrea Dawn Lopez, SSgt. Jeffrey Baxter, Chelsea Chambers and John Chambers; and seven great-grandchildren. Baumgardner Funeral Home of Crowley is in charge of arrangements. 817-297-1116

DAVID EUGENE HARRIS
Burleson - David Eugene Harris, 80, a retired master painter for Ford Motor Company, was called home to Heaven on Thursday, January 22, 2004, at a Fort Worth Hospital. A memorial service will be held at 11:00 a.m., Friday, January 30 at First United Methodist Church of Burleson. The family would appreciate memorials to the Building Fund of First United Methodist Church of Burleson or to the Harvest House of Burleson. Mr. Harris was preceded in death by a brother, Bill Harris.
He is survived by his wife, Helen Harris of Burleson; daughters, Diana Moser of Washington, Melody Harris of Michigan; sisters, Ida Louise Ford of Oxford, Nebraska, Lillie Elizabeth Lee of Gladwin, Michigan; brothers, Wayne Harris of Oxford, Nebraska, Ray Harris of Michigan; stepsons, Bill Neal and family, Dwight Neal and family. Mountain Valley Funeral Home of Burleson is in charge of arrangements. (817) 517-5995

ORVILLE "GENE" MIDDLETON
1933-2004
Orville "Gene" Middleton, 70, of Burleson died Saturday, January 24, 2004, at Community Hospice in Fort Worth after a two-and-one-half-year battle with prostate cancer. Funeral services were slated for 2 p.m. on Tuesday, January 27, at Mountain Valley Funeral Home. Burial followed at Burleson Memorial Park. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Emory J. Lilge Hospice House,301 Med Park Circle, Burleson, Texas 76028. Gene was born May 12, 1933, in Montague, Texas, to S.F. "Smith" Middleton and Angie O'Leta Brown Middleton. He graduated from high school in Jacksboro, Texas, in 1950. He married Allyne Garrison on September 7, 1957. He served in the United States Army from 1953 to 1955 as an overseas radio operator stationed with NORAD Siberian Defense Line in Alaska. He was employed in many capacities, including ranching, in the oil fields, for an aeronautics company, for a cafeteria and catering service, as a truck driver, and then retired from Alvarado Muffler as an inspector. He also worked at Luby's in Burleson. He participated in the 2002 and 2003 American Cancer Society Relay for Life of Burleson events. Gene was preceded in death by his son, Kelly Gene Middleton, in 1981. He is survived by his wife of 46 years, Allyne Middleton; two daughters, Kerri Nerios and her husband Ray of Burleson and Tori MacFawn and her husband Shane of Keller; four grandchildren, Kelly Nerios and Kody Nerios of Burleson and Kyler MacFawn and Kinsley MacFawn of Keller; and siblings, David and Johanne Middleton of Hayward, California, Betty Thomas of Fremont, California, and Rita Jackson of Grapevine. Mountain Valley Funeral Home handled the arrangements. 817-517-5995

JIMMY RAY MILLER
BURLESON -- Jimmy Ray Miller, 66, a retired shipping and receiving manager, passed away Monday, Jan. 26, 2004, at a local hospice. Funeral services will be held at 10 a.m. Thursday at St. Matthew Cumberland Presbyterian Church, Burleson. Burial will be at Laurel Land Memorial Park of Fort Worth. Visitation is 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday at Laurel Land Funeral Home of Fort Worth. Jimmy was born Oct. 8, 1937, in Fort Worth. He was a member of the Masonic Lodge. Jimmy was also a member of St. Matthew Cumberland Presbyterian Church of Burleson, where he was active with the Mission Team. He served in the U.S. Army. Jimmy was preceded in death by his parents, Frank and Vera Mae Johnson-Miller. Mr. Miller is survived by his wife of 21 years, Judie Miller; children and their spouses, Jill Maddox, Greg and Laurie Bargsley, Tim Bargsley, Susan and Rob Hodges and Karen Bargsley; grandchildren, Sasha and T.J. Maddox, Alex, Ian and Miranda Bargsley and Alexis, Samuel and Sara Hodges; and brothers and their spouses, Larry and Patsy Miller, Bobby Miller and Darrell and Linda Miller. Laurel Land Funeral Home, 7100 Crowley Road, is handling the arrangements (817) 293-1350.

DOLORES L. NELSON
BURLESON ­ Dolores L. Nelson, 72, died Sunday morning, January 25, 2004, at a Fort Worth hospice. A memorial service will be held at 2:00 p.m. Wednesday, January 29 at First Baptist Church Burleson after a private burial service at 10:30 a.m. The family received friends at Mountain Valley Funeral Home in Burleson from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Tuesday. Dolores was born May 31, 1931, in Sentinel, Oklahoma to Roy and Ruth Cate. She graduated from Borger High School in 1948. From there, she attended Baylor University and graduated from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary, where she received a bachelor's degree in religious education and was awarded the Elizabeth B. Price award for being valedictorian of the women's graduating class. With her husband, Jimmie Nelson, Dolores ministered to many people. She was a loving counselor and wonderful Bible teacher. Together, they served several Baptist churches including Oak Grove Baptist Church, Fort Worth, Colonial Hill Baptist Church, Snyder, Texas, First Baptist Church of Deer Park, Texas, churches in The Netherlands, Germany, Switzerland, and Barcelona, Spain, and at the Canadian Baptist Seminary in Cochrane, Calgary, Canada. Dolores was a Bible teacher to young people for many years, and was an active member of First Baptist Church of Burleson for more than thirty years. She also worked as a substitute teacher for many years in the Burleson Independent School District. She was a gifted writer and wrote curriculum, teaching materials and devotionals for the Baptist Sunday School Board (Lifeway). Known for her creativity, she coined the motto for the city of Fort Worth during the U.S. bicentennial: "Fort Worth: Where the Pioneer Spirit Is Alive And Well." Dolores was active in the Seminary Women's Club at Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary and served as an officer and President. She loved to read mysteries and to travel. She had a knack for storytelling, and brightened conversations with her clever sense of humor. Above all, she was known for her warmth, her kindness, and her compassion. Her faith defined her life. Dolores is survived by her husband, Jimmie L. Nelson of Burleson; her two sons, Stephen Nelson and his wife, Robin Nelson, of Terrero, New Mexico, and J. Alan Nelson and his wife, Susan Innmon Nelson, of Waco; daughter, Julie Cate Nelson Couch and her husband, Robert E. Couch, of Lubbock; brothers, Dempsey Cate of Houston, Michael Cate of Amarillo; and sister, Louise Eatmon of Belton. She was known as Grand Dolly to her grandchildren, Nicholas Nelson and Julia Nelson of Waco, Collin Couch and Henry Couch of Lubbock, and Reina Nelson of Terrero, New Mexico. Dolores was also known and beloved as Grand Dolly to many 'adopted' family members. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to First Baptist Church Burleson designated to the Canadian Southern Baptist Seminary or to the Jimmie L. and Dolores L. Nelson scholarship fund at Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary. Mountain Valley Funeral Home of Burleson is handling arrangements. 817-517-5995

NORMAN D. "BUCK" STEPAN
BURLESON -- Norman D. "Buck" Stepan, 61, a retired machinist with Union Pacific Railroad, passed away Friday, January 23, 2004, in Fort Worth. A memorial service is scheduled at noon Wednesday January 27 at Laurel Land Memorial Chapel of Burleson. Memorials: Expressions of sympathy may be directed in the form of donations to the Emory J. Lilge Hospice House. Mr. Stepan is survived by his wife of 42 years, Pat Stepan of Burleson; children, Kelly Hallford and husband, John, John Stepan and wife, Sally, Craig Stepan and wife, Lisa, all of Burleson; mother, Mary Helen Stepan; sister, Jeanette Bandt and husband, Thaine, of Nebraska; 12 grandchildren; one great-grandson; and a host of aunts, uncles, nieces and nephews. Laurel Land Funeral Home Burleson is in charge of arrangements. (817) 295-5211

CHARLES EDWARD "ED" TARVER
Cleburne -- Charles Edward "Ed" Tarver, 69, a retired automobile mechanic, died Saturday, January 24, 2004 at a local hospice house. Funeral services will be held Wednesday, January 28 at Mountain Valley Chapel, Burleson. Burial will be at Marystown Cemetery, Johnson County. Visitation was 6:00-9:00 p.m., Tuesday at Mountain Valley Funeral Home. Mr. Tarver was preceded in death by his parents; two sons, Charles Tarver and Jerry Don Tarver; stepson, Mark Harmon; brother, Ernie Tarver; sister, Bonnie Stratton; grandson, Joey Curry; and special cousin, Linda Jenkins. He is survived by his son, David Tarver of Joshua; daughter, Shellye Tyson of Henrietta; stepson, John Collins of Rogers, Arkansas; brother, J.O. Tarver of Alvarado; sisters, Maurine Milliron, Lucille Aiken, Dee Magby and Ozelle Hopper, all of Fort Worth; grandchildren, Valari and Matthew Tyson of Henrietta, Crystal and Brent Tarver of Joshua. Mountain Valley Funeral Home of Burleson is in charge of the arrangements. (817)517-5995

JOE BILLY SIMMS
1926-2004
Burleson - Joe Billy Simms, 77, a retired construction maintenance employee with Lone Star Gas Company, passed away Thursday, January 22, 2004, at his home in Burleson with his loving family at his side. Funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m. Monday, January 26 at Burleson Church of Christ. Burial will be at Laurel Land Memorial Park. Visitation is from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m. Sunday at Laurel Land Funeral Home of Fort Worth. Joe was an avid gardener, regular customer of Paris coffee shop, and a member of Burleson Church of Christ. He was born in Frisco, Texas. Joe was preceded in death by his grandson, Todd Simms; sister, Pauline Bridges; and best friend, Travis Walters. He is survived by his wife of 53 years, Ada Simms; children, Charles Simms and wife, Joyce, Billy Simms and wife, Lola, Paul Simms and wife, Cindy, Laura Dickerson and husband, Don, Philip Simms and wife, Beverly; brother, Weldon Ray Simms and wife, Helen; sister, Dr. Laura Simms; cousin, Ross Daniel; 12 grandchildren; and eight great-grandchildren. Laurel Land Funeral Home of Fort Worth is in charge of arrangements. (817) 293-1350

JOHN E. MILLER
1913-2004
John E. Miller, age 91 years, of Burleson, formerly of Cross Plains, died Wednesday, January 21, 2004 at his home in Burleson. John was born on January 13, 1913 to William and Alice Cornelia (McKinlay) Miller in La Grande, Oregon. He married Irma Brannan on July 19, 1944 in Ft. Worth. He served in World War II as a Technician Fourth Grade Headquarters, Special Troops, 10th Mountain Division. He was a Baptist. John is survived by his wife, Irma Miller of Burleson; three sons, Mark Miller of Florida, David Miller of Pearland and Sam Miller of Spring; two daughters, Becky Lipstraw of Garland and Mary Miller-Mabry of Dallas; four grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; as well as two nieces and a nephew. His parents preceded him in death. Funeral services were held at 2:00 p.m. Saturday, January 24 at Higginbotham Funeral Chapel with Scott Whitson officiating and assisted by Dwaine Clower. Burial was at the Pioneer Cemetery. Visitation was held from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m. Saturday at Higginbotham Funeral Home. The family request that in lieu of flowers donations be made to Burleson Pregnancy Aid Center, 250 N.W. Tarrant Avenue, Suite J, Burleson, Texas 76028. Higginbotham Funeral Home of Cross Plains was in charge of arrangements. (254) 725-6153

WILLIAM THOMAS YOUNGBLOOD
Crowley - William Thomas Youngblood, 69, a retired farmer, died Monday, January 19, 2004, at a Fort Worth hospital. Funeral services will be held at 2:00 p.m. Thursday, January 22 at Mountain Valley Chapel. Burial will be at Caddo Cemetery in Joshua. Visitation is from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. Wednesday at Mountain Valley Funeral Home. Mr. Youngblood is survived by his wife of 45 years, Bernice Youngblood of Crowley; son, Glenn Youngblood of Richardson; daughters, Debbie Cooper of Joshua, Kay Sharp of Raleigh, North Carolina; brothers, Earl and Burl Youngblood, both of Burleson; sister, Eunice Irvin of Cleburne; grandchildren, Toby Cooper and Jennifer Cooper, both of Joshua, Lauren Youngblood of Richardson. Mountain Valley Funeral Home of Burleson is in charge of arrangements. (817) 517-5995

FRANCES ENGLEKING
1921-2004
CROWLEY -- Frances Engleking, 82, passed away Wednesday, January 14, 2004, at a local nursing home. Graveside service were held Sunday, January 18 at Laurel Land Memorial Park of Fort Worth. Frances was born to the late Frank and Hazel Johnson on May 20, 1921, in Omaha, Nebraska. She was of the Seventh-day Adventist faith and a member of the American Business Women's Association. Frances was an avid reader with an extensive private library. She will be missed dearly by all who knew and loved her. Frances was preceded in death by her parents and husband, Earl Engleking. She is survived by son and daughter-in-law, David and Linda Engleking of Burleson; grandchildren, David Engleking Jr. of Crowley and Heather Engleking of College Station; sister, Lois Corbaley of Omaha, Nebraska; sister-in-law, Joan Johnson of Meadview, Arizona; and second cousins, Donna Melnick and Randy Reed of California. Laurel Land Funeral Home of Fort Worth handled the arrangements. 817-293-1350

LEONARD JAMES LEFILS
1923-2004
CROWLEY -- Leonard James LeFils, 80, a retired pressman, passed away Thursday, January 15, 2004, at a Fort Worth care center. Funeral services were held at 2 p.m. Monday, January 19 at Laurel Land Memorial Chapel of Fort Worth. Burial was at Laurel Land Memorial Park. Leonard was born to the late Daniel Frank and Agnes Mary Henderson-LeFils on June 18,1923, in Arp, Texas. He graduated from Hardin Simmons University. He served in the U.S. Navy during World War II. Mr. LeFils was a member of Willow Creek Baptist Church of Fort Worth and the Senior Citizens of Crowley. He will be missed dearly by all those who knew and loved him. Leonard was preceded in death by his parents; his wife of 48 years, Laura LeFils; son, Daniel LeFils; granddaughter, Rachel LeFils; brother, Lloyd LeFils; and sister, Doris Sellers. He is survived by his wife of four years, Kathleen LeFils; children, Sharon McGuffin, Edwin LeFils and wife, Anna, and Cynthia Needham and husband, Danny; seven grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; brother, Leslie LeFils and wife, Barbara; sister, Marie Douglas and husband, Bill; three stepchildren; three stepgrandchildren; several nieces, nephews, and a host of other relatives and friends. Laurel Land Funeral Home of Fort Worth handled the arrangements. (817) 293-1350

ARTHUR LAVELLE "MAC" MC CONATHY
Crowley -- Arthur Lavelle "Mac" McConathy, 61, a retired electrician, passed away Thursday, January 15, 2004 at his residence. Funeral services were held Monday, January 19, 2004 at the Harvest Assembly of God at 7501 Crowley Road. The Reverend Dale Shorter officiated. Mac was born August 25, 1942 in Hill County to Arthur and Tommie Poyner McConathy. He was a member of the Crowley Masonic Lodge. He was also a director, coach and commissioner of the C.Y.A. for 10 years. Mac retired from the Miller Brewery after working there for 29 years and 10 months. He served in the United States Navy from 1961 to 1966. He loved to camp and fish. Mr. McConathy is survived by his wife, Kathy McConathy; sons, Mike McConathy and wife, Cindy, Rick McConathy and wife, Karen, and Daryl McConathy and wife, Jana; brothers, Larry McConathy and wife, Linda, and Roger McConathy and wife, Catherine; grandchildren, Austin, Elissa, Tyler, Mason, Megan and Camille; and several nieces and nephews. Baumgardner Funeral Home of Crowley handled the arrangements. 817-731-8400

J.T. TRAMMELL
Joshua -- J.T. Trammell, 76, a retired animal health inspector for the state of Texas, died Saturday, January 17, 2004 at his residence in Joshua. Graveside services were held at 2:00 p.m., Tuesday, January 20 at Caddo Cemetery in Joshua. James Thomas Trammell was born February 23, 1927 in Winters to William Sydney and Mary Elizabeth Hobson Trammell. He married Nona Mae Robinson on March 8, 1950 in Weatherford. He served his country in the U.S. Army during WWII and retired from the state of Texas in 1989. He enjoyed fishing, camping and was a member of Reece Prairie Baptist Church. He was preceded in death by seven brothers and six sisters. Mr. Trammell is survived by his wife, Nona Mae Trammell of Joshua; sons, Lanny Ray Trammell and wife, Angie, of Midlothian, James David Trammell and wife, Kay, of Godley, Thomas Scott Trammell and wife, Beverly, of Joshua, Raymond Leonard Trammell and Pat of Joshua; grandchildren, Chad, Casey, Cristy, Nell, Nolan, Narisa, Tammy, Tim, and John; great-grandchild, Chelsea; and a host of nieces and nephews. Mountain Valley Funeral Home of Burleson handled the arrangements. (817) 517-5995

TREY LYNN EASTER
1987-2004
CLEBURNE -- Trey Lynn Easter, 16, a student, passed away Monday, January 12, 2004, at a Fort Worth hospital. Funeral services will be at 11:30 a.m. Thursday, January 15 in Mount Olivet Chapel. Burial will be at Mount Olivet Cemetery. Visitation is 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday at Mount Olivet Funeral Home. Memorials may be sent to the American Heart Association.
Trey was born February 21, 1987, in Fort Worth. He attended Joshua High School where he was a junior. He was involved with Joshua High School basketball and was taking pre-college courses in preparation for attending college. He was an avid fisherman and enjoyed watching professional wrestling. Trey was preceded in death by his grandfather, Raymond Easter in 1998. He is survived by his mother, Kimberly Easter of Cleburne; father, Terry Easter of Fort Worth; brother, Jordan Easter of Fort Worth; sister, Heather Easter of Cleburne; maternal grandparents, Wesley Cole and wife, Betty, of Springtown; paternal grandparent, Pat Molder of Richland Hills; maternal great-grandmother, Amy R. Tucker of Maryland; aunts, Becky Crowell, Betty Jo Montes and Kelly Easter; uncles, Wes and Kevin Cole; a host of other loving family members and friends. Mount Olivet Funeral Home of Fort Worth is in charge of arrangements. (817) 831-0511

BETTE SUMMERS
1922-2004
FORT WORTH -- Bette Summers, 81, passed away Tuesday, January 6, 2004. A memorial service was held at Thursday, January 8 at St. Giles Presbyterian Church. Dr. Ed Nunnelly officiated. Bette was born April 22, 1922, in Cincinnati, Ohio. She was a loving mother and doting grandmother. She was the wife of attorney Dale Summers, who preceded her in death. Bette was a substitute teacher for many years in the White Settlement ISD. She believed that young people's education was the key to the future. Later in life, she and Mr. Summers opened the American Health & Nutrition Shoppe. She was a good Samaritan and never turned her back on a friend in need or anyone else that might need some type of help. She enjoyed people and was a fabulous cook. She will be remembered by her family and friends as a gift from God. Bette is survived by daughters, Carol Jones of Bedford and Deborah Williams and husband, Bobby, of Burleson; son, James Summers of Fort Worth; grandchildren, Ryan Jones of Bedford, Brandon Yates of Athens, Georgia, Jordan Summers, Justin Summers and Jenna Summers, all of Belleville, Illinois, and Andrea Cavasin of Howell, Michigan; extended relatives, Jeanette O'Shea Wright, Charles O'Shea Jr., both of Sarasota, Florida, Jim and Delores Summers, Harry and Margaret Meckstroth, all of Dayton, Ohio, Frances Phifer of Syracuse, Indiana; longtime friend, Betty Evans of Fort Worth; and extended nieces and nephews. Greenwood Funeral Home of Fort Worth handled the arrangements.(817) 336-0584

EUNICE EVELYN HARRIS
1917-2004
Burleson--Graveside services for Eunice Evelyn Harris, 86, of Burleson, were held at 3:00 p.m., Monday, January 12 at Rose Hill Cemetery in Cleburne. Visitation was held from 12 noon to 2:00 p.m. on Monday prior to service time. Mrs. Harris, a retired bookkeeper for Edwards Chrysler- Plymouth of Dumas, Texas, passed away on Saturday, January 10, 2004, in Fort Worth, Texas. She was born in Canadian, Texas on August 6, 1917. She married Emery Harold Harris on December 24, 1939, in Tucumcari, New Mexico. He preceded her in death August 9, 1997. She is survived by one son, Hal Harris of Dallas.
View obituary and pictures, send condolences and order flowers @ www.cpmfuneralhome.com Crosier-Pearson-Mayfield Funeral Home of Cleburne handled the arrangements. (817) 645-4311

JOAN COLEMAN CARLOCK
1924-2004
Joshua - Joan Coleman Carlock, 79, a homemaker, died Wednesday, January 7, 2004, at a local hospital. Funeral services were held at 2:00 p.m. Saturday, January 10 at Mountain Valley Funeral Home Chapel in Burleson. Burial was at Union Hill Cemetery in Joshua. Visitation was 6 to 8 p.m. Friday at the funeral home. Joan was born November 30, 1924, in Weatherford to Finesse and Tina Grigsby Coleman. She married A.W. "Jack" Carlock on January 16, 1943, in Cleburne. She was a member of the Burleson Church of Christ, loved her family, and enjoyed her grandkids dearly. Joan is survived by daughter, Alicia Mason and husband, Sanford Jr., of Burleson; brothers, F.W. "PeeWee" Coleman and wife, Retta, of Burleson, Elmo "Junior" Coleman of Burleson; sister, Sarah Connor of Union City, California; sisters-in-law, Clifford Coleman of Cleburne, Mildred Coleman of Burleson; brother-in-law, Bob Carlock and wife, Maxine, of Joshua; grandchildren, Sanford "Sandy" Mason III of Joshua, Frank Mason of Grandview, Greg Mason and wife, April of Joshua, Steve Mason and wife, Danette, of Joshua, Suzanna Mason of Burleson; and eight grandchildren. Mountain Valley Funeral Home of Burleson handled the arrangements. (817) 517-5995

O. FAYE GRIDER
BURLESON -- O. Faye Grider, 78, a retired Personnel Manager, passed away Thursday, December 25, 2003 at her residence. Mrs. Grider is survived by daughters, Jamie Cole and Jere Bennett, both of Burleson; brother, C.W. Mabe and wife, Betty, of Longview, Texas; sister, Patsy Stuart and husband, Joe, of Dallas; sister-in-law, Ernestine Mabe of Longview, Texas; and several nieces, and nephews. Laurel Land Funeral Home of Burleson handled the arrangements. (817) 295-5211

MABEL W. MC CLURE KING
Services for Mabel W. McClure King, 90, of Keene, were conducted Sunday, January 4, 2004 in the Cleburne Funeral Home Chapel. Elder Robert D. Rider and James A. Dyche officiated. Burial was in Keene Cemetery in Keene, Texas. Mrs. King died Wednesday, December 31, 2003 in Fort Worth, Texas. She was born February 16, 1913 in Johnson County, Texas, to Guy Rufus and Delia King McClure. She married Thomas Adolph King on May 25, 1929 in Itasca, Texas. Mrs. King was a retired LVN and a member of the Keene Seventh-day Adventist Church for 65 years. Survivors include daughters, Hattie Lee Rider and husband, Elder Robert D., of Keene and Sandra Blu McCamon of Springtown; sister, Dorothy Penney of Cleburne; son-in-law, Dr. D. J. Fong of Amarillo; nine grandchildren; 16 great-grandchildren; and one great-great-grandchild. Mrs. King was preceded in death by her parents; son, Adolph Wilmoth King; daughter, Barbara Ann Fong; six brothers, Jack, Bert, Guy, J.D., Dorsey "Buck" and Dan McClure; sister, Mary Harris; grandchildren, Donald Wayne King and Anthony Alan Ross. You may Email a condolence to the family at cleburnefh@funeralhmtx.com. Cleburne Funeral Home handled the arrangements. (817) 648-0522

JAMES F. CHESSHIR
Joshua - James F. Chesshir, 69, a self employed paint and drywall contractor, died Saturday, December 20, 2003, at a Fort Worth hospital. A memorial service was held at 2:00 p.m. Friday, December 26 at Mountain Valley Funeral Home Chapel in Burleson. James was born March 5, 1934, in Hagensport near Mt. Vernon, the son of Samuel and Helen Dyer Chesshir. He proudly served his country in the U.S. Marine Corps during Korea. He was once a highway patrolman, a race horse jockey, and a graduate of the Devry Institute. He was a great outdoorsman, enjoyed grilling, loved his family dearly, and was a member of Boulevard Baptist Church in Burleson. James is survived by his wife, Judith Chesshir of Joshua; son, Mike Chesshir and wife, Penny, of Godley; daughters, Debbie Bleeker Nicholson and husband, Mike, of Azle, Sherry Chesshir Fuhlendorf and husband, David, of Claremore, Oklahoma; brothers, Sammy, Doug, John, and Max Chesshir; grandchildren, Misty, April, and Nicole Chesshir of Godley, Kevin, Brian, and Jason Bleeker of Joshua, Josh, Julia, and Levy Fuhlendorf of Claremore, Oklahoma; stepchildren, Mike Henslee, Julie Flores, and David Campbell; many nieces, nephews, and cousins. Mountain Valley Funeral Home of Burleson handled the arrangements. (817) 517-5995

NOLA (LUCILLE) JOHANN
1917-2003
Funeral services for Nola (Lucille) Johann, 86, of Keene were held at 10:00 a.m. Wednesday, December 24, 2003 at Martin's Funeral Home Chapel. Interment was in Keene Cemetery. Pastor Leighton Holley officiated. Mrs. Johann died December 21, 2003 in Keene, Texas.
She was born April 3, 1917.
Mrs. Johann was preceded in death by her husband, Robert Kenneth Johann and daughter, Phyllis Johann Hayes. She is survived by daughter, Lela and husband, Lenord Brown, of Ohio, brother, Leon Blackwell of Eldorado, Illinois; grandchildren, Cherie King of Fort Worth, Lenord Brown, Jr. of St. Joseph, Michigan; nephew, Donald Johann of Alton, Illinois. Martin's Funeral Home of Cleburne handled the arrangements. (817-645-6611)

BOBBY ALAN PEARSON
Cleburne ­ A memorial service for Bobby Alan Pearson, 41, was conducted Sunday, December 28, 2003 at First Baptist Church in Cleburne. His brother-in-law, Don Cribbs officiated. A private family burial was scheduled for a later date in Keene Memorial Park Cemetery. Bobby passed away on December 24, 2003 in Cleburne in a tragic accident. He was born July 23, 1962 in Baton Rouge, Louisiana on his family's way to Houston, Texas where he lived to age 12 before moving to Joshua. Bobby married his high school sweetheart, Kim Wadsworth on October 3, 1980. He was an aerospace assembler with Lockheed-Martin Aerodynamics for 13 years, in which he had the opportunity to participate in the production of the International Space Station and was honored to work with astronauts at NASA. Bobby was a member of First Baptist Church in Cleburne. He will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved him. Bobby is survived by his loving wife, Kim Pearson of Cleburne; the children that were the light of his life, daughter Britney Pearson, 18, of Cleburne and son David, 14, of Cleburne; honorary daughters, Diane and Davy Jo Green of Cleburne; parents, Leon and Betty Pearson; brothers, Alvin and Chuck Videtto, Leon Jr., Timmy, Kenny, and Billy Pearson; sisters, Betty Ann, Sherry, Robin, and Starlet; numerous nephews and nieces. Bobby was preceded in death by his brother David Pearson.
Condolences may be emailed to the family at rosserfh@swbell.net. Rosser Funeral Home of Cleburne handled the arrangements. (817) 641-4800

FANNIE I. STEED
1912-2003
Joshua - Fannie I. Steed, 91, a retired teacher and school bus driver for the Joshua I.S.D., died Monday, December 29, 2003 at a local hospital. Graveside services were held Wednesday, December 31 at Caddo Cemetery in Joshua. Fannie Irene Steed was born May 26, 1912 in Johnson County (Wicker Hill), to John Half and Artie Lightfoot Wicker. She married Claude Steed on November 28, 1934. She was a lifelong resident of Joshua and was a Baptist. She is survived by nieces, Janice Edwards and husband, Hayden Jr., of Arlington, Patsy Montanez and husband, Tommy, of Joshua; nephews, Charles Pearson and Paul Randall Wicker; great-niece, Daniell Montanez Woods; great-nephews, Daniel Edwards, Charles Edwards, Allen Edwards, Brian Pearson, Darren McDearmont, Wade Wicker; and numerous great-great-nieces and nephews. Mountain Valley Funeral Home of Burleson handled the arrangements. (817) 517-5995

JOE BOYD MAYFIELD
Burleson - Joe Boyd Mayfield, 54, a self-employed truck driver, was called home to Heaven on Friday, December 26, 2003, at his residence. Funeral services were held Monday, December 29, 2003, at The Church at Burleson. Pastor Jim Rowlett officiated. Burial was at Moore Memorial Gardens in Arlington. Joe Boyd Mayfield was born April 29, 1949, in Fort Worth, the son of Clyde Wheeler and Wanda Colleen Fortenberry Mayfield. He had been a resident of Burleson for 23 years and was a member of The Church at Burleson. He enjoyed street rodding, car shows and swap meets. Mr. Mayfield was preceded in death by his father, Clyde W. Mayfield; sister, Linda Colleen Mayfield; and granddaughter, Maegan Raeanne. He is survived by his wife of 36 years, Cherie L. Mayfield of Burleson; son, Stacy Mayfield of Cleburne; daughters, Amy Atchison and husband, Stephen, of Burleson, Wendy McCrory and husband, Eric, of Burleson, Paula Carter and husband, Teddy, of Mansfield; brothers, Clyde "Bo" Mayfield of Brighton, Colorado, Richard Mayfield of Everman; mother, Colleen Mayfield of Fort Worth; mother- and father-in-law, Al and Norma Blount of Fort Worth; 5.5 grandchildren, Shelby Mayfield, Corey Atchison, Kalyn Atchison, Katy Carter, Haley Carter, and Hannah Jo McCrory (on the way); and his Boston terrier, Monkey. The family would appreciate memorials to the Joe Boyd Mayfield Memorial Fund at Community Bank. Mountain Valley Funeral Home of Burleson handled the arrangements. (817) 517-5995

ERIC DEWAYNE "BABY MAN" PATTERSON JR.
BURLESON - Eric Dewayne "Baby Man" Patterson Jr., a 21-month old toddler, passed away Thursday, January 1, 2004, in Fort Worth. Funeral services were held Monday, January 5 at Laurel Land Memorial Chapel of Burleson. Burial was at Marystown Cemetery. Eric was born April 1, 2002, in Fort Worth. He was a joy to be around and a blessing to his whole family. "Baby Man" had a smile that could light up any room, and everyone who knew and loved him will miss him dearly. Eric was preceded in death by his sister, Pamela; grandfathers, Jerry Taft and Pat Patterson; grandmother, Shirley Patterson; and aunt, Jerri Kay Taft. He is survived by parents, Eric Sr. and Leigha Patterson; brother, Jacob Patterson; grandmother, Linda Taft; aunts and uncles, Sheila Bowerman, Debbie Benjamin, Laura and Mike McNeely, Bobby and Paige Taft, Stephanie Taft, Stephen Taft and Michael Taft; great-grandfather, Claude Taft; great-great-grandfather, E.A. Fletcher; numerous great-aunts, uncles and cousins. Laurel Land Funeral Home of Burleson handled the arrangements. (817) 295-5211

OWEN J. HAYHURST
1937-2004
Alvarado - Owen J. Hayhurst, 66, a retired investigator and most recently, the proprietor of the Bait Shop at Lake Alvarado, passed away on Friday, January 2, 2004, at a local hospital. No funeral services are scheduled.
Owen was born October 17, 1937, in Roulette, North Dakota. He lived in Alvarado with his son, Glenn, and daughter-in-law, Janette, and their two sons, Austin and Marshall. He is survived by his wife of 32 years, Charlotte Hayhurst; sons, Glenn Hayhurst of Alvarado and Chris Hayhurst of Citrus Heights, California; daughters, Lisa Stalteri of San Mateo, California, Mary Thompson of Katy and Terry Sugg of Houston; grandchildren, Sean, Alec, Casey, Dante, Hannah, Austin, Marshall, Elijah, Samantha, Amanda Grace and Luke James.

C. MACKAY CHRISTIANSON
1921-2003
C. Mackay Christianson was born near Hinckley, Minnesota, on October 11, 1921, and went to his rest December 4, 2003, in Fort Worth, Texas. He was a graduate of the class of 1946 of Union College, Lincoln, Nebraska. He was an ordained minister of the Seventh-day Adventist Church for 39 years, eight of which were spent in Columbia, Venezuela and Panama. Mr. Christianson was preceded in death by his son, David. He and his wife, Esther were soon to celebrate 59 years of marriage. He is survived by daughters, Dawna Hoerner of Miamisburg, Ohio and Cathie Workman of Albuquerque, New Mexico; also, sons Jim and Tom from Alvarado. Mr. Christianson's memorial service was held December 6 in the Alvarado Seventh-day Adventist Church. His resting place is the Keene Cemetery awaiting the coming of the Lord.

JERRY CLAUDE TAFT
BURLESON -- Jerry Claude Taft, 59, an electrician, passed away Monday, December 15, 2003, at a local hospital. Funeral services were held at 2 p.m. Friday, December 19 in Laurel Land Memorial Chapel of Burleson. Burial was at Marystown Cemetery in Johnson County. Jerry was born November 23, 1944, in Fort Worth. He was a member of Handley Church of Christ and the Lions Club. Jerry was an avid antique car man. Jerry was preceded in death by his mother, Wanda Joy Parker-Taft; daughter, Jerri Kay Taft; sister, Deborah Eastep; and a granddaughter, Pamela Patterson. He is survived by his wife of 38 years, Linda Taft; children, Bobby and Paige Taft, Stephanie Taft, Stephen Taft, Leigha and Eric Patterson and Michael Taft; grandchildren, Sarah Wilson, Amber and Justin Ballard, Noewell and Ashlynn Taft, Cody Ballard, Stephen Taft, Jr., Jerry D. and Addyson Taft, Eric Patterson Jr. and Jacob Patterson; father, Claude L. Taft; grandfather, E.A. Fletcher; siblings, Ronald Dean Taft, Sandra Joy Voth and Edward Taft; numerous aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and other relatives; and a host of friends. Laurel Land Funeral Home of Burleson was in charge of the arrangements. (817) 293-1350

ANGELA MICHELLE REES-PEETS
BURLESON -- Angela Michelle Rees-Peets, 21, went to be with her Lord on Tuesday, December 16, 2003, in Fort Worth. A Celebration of Life was held at 2:00 p.m. Friday, December 19 at First Baptist Church of Burleson. Burial was at Laurel Land Memorial Park. Visitation was 6-8 p.m. Thursday at Crosier-Pearson-Mayfield Funeral Home in Burleson/Fort Worth. Angela recently attended Hardin-Simmons University in Abilene. She had a devoted love for God, family and music. Angela is preceded in death by her father, Terry Rees. She is survived by her husband, Eric Peets; mother, Patricia Rees; stepfather, Stan Tyus; sister, Kimberly Rees; grandmother, Jo Carmen Patterson; mother and father-in-law, Richard and Kelley Peets; brothers-in-law, David and Nathan Peets; stepmother, Barbara Rees; beloved pet, Abby "the wonder weenie" Peets; and numerous aunts, uncles and cousins. Special thanks to Dr. Phillip Bechtel, Cooks Specialty Clinic, the nurses at HMFW, Cook Childrens Hospital and Emery J. Lilge Hospice House for their care and compassion. Crosier-Pearson-Mayfield Funeral Home of Burleson/Fort Worth handled the arrangements.

GEORGE MERWYN SCHRAM
Keene ­ Memorial services were conducted for Elder George Merwyn Schram, 88, at 4 p.m. on Saturday, December 20 at the Keene Seventh-day Adventist Church. Elders Benji Leach, Cyril Miller, John Read, and Joe Ray officiated. Also officiating were Mr. Sam Woods and Dr. John Mathews. Honorary pallbearers were Ray Garner, Keith Hallock, Frank Moore, Dr. Bill Newton, Yddo Ortiz, and Joe Watts. His body has been donated to the Osteopathic Hospital for research. Mr. Schram passed away on December 15, 2003. He was born July 3, 1915, in Battle Creek, Michigan. He was a pastor and an evangelist, but also known as "Mr. Community Services" as he directed the Texas Conference Community and Disaster Services for many years. Mr. Schram is survived by his loving wife, Glenda Schram of Keene; son and daughter-in-law, Robert and Karen Schram of Flower Mound; daughter and son-in-law, Janice and Dr. John Mathews of Lincoln, Nebraska; granddaughters, Kerstin Conners of Flower Mound and Angela Pierce and husband, Seth, of Wichita, Kansas; sister-in-law, Gloria Palacios of Fullerton, California. Memorials may be made to Adventist World Radio at 12501 Old Columbia Pike, Silver Spring, Maryland 20904 or It is Written at P.O. Box 0, Thousand Oaks, California 91360. Rosser Funeral Home of Cleburne handled the arrangements. (817) 641-4800

DAVID ALAN MC KENZIE
1960-2003
Fort Worth - David Alan McKenzie, 43, a Musician, passed away Monday, December 15, 2003, at a local hospital. Funeral services were held Thursday, December 18 at Laurel Land Memorial Chapel of Fort Worth. Burial was at Laurel Land Memorial Park. Visitation was 6 to 8 pm Wednesday at the funeral home. David was born October 21, 1960, in Fort Worth. He was a member of Willow Park Baptist Church of Willow Park. David is survived by his parents, Charles and Betty McKenzie; sisters, Cathy Ann Underwood, Susan Gayle Scifres; nephews, Evan Pemberton, Matthew Scifres; niece, Mackenzie Leigh Scifres; maternal grandmother, Mable Lee Smith; many aunts, uncles and cousins; and a host of other relatives and friends. Laurel Land Funeral Home of Fort Worth handled the arrangements. (817) 293-1350

VERNON C. MOHR
Keene--Services for Vernon C. Mohr, 92, were conducted Monday, December 15, 2003 in the Schneider Chapel at the Keene Memorial Park Cemetery. Burial was in the Keene Cemetery. Elder Don Baker and Elder Bob Thrower officiated. Mr. Mohr passed away on Friday, December 12, 2003 in Fort Worth. He was born August 20, 1911 in Schaffer, Kansas to Benjamin and Katy Mohr. He married Freda Marie Schafer on August 28, 1935. Mr. Mohr was a retired farmer and a member of the Keene Seventh-day Adventist Church. He is survived by his daughters, Viola Barnes and husband, Duane, of Cleburne and Shirley Hoehn of Fort Worth; son, Gerald Mohr and wife, Violet, of Cleburne; eight grandchildren and 15 great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents and his wife.
Rosser Funeral Home of Cleburne was in charge of the arrangements. Condolences may be emailed to the family at rosserfh@swbell.net.

MARILYN HALL
Joshua--Marilyn Hall, 56, a retired teacher for the Joshua ISD, died Saturday, December 13, 2003 at a Fort Worth hospital. Funeral services were held Wednesday, December 17, 2003, at First United Methodist Church of Joshua. Burial was at Rose Hill Cemetery in Cleburne. Marilyn Hall, a loving and devoted wife, mother, daughter, grandmother, sister, author, teacher and friend, was born October 12, 1947, in Beaumont, Texas, the daughter of Henry Paul and Ernestine Setliff Rehorovic. She had been a resident of Joshua for 19 years, and taught fifth grade at Joshua Intermediate School. She married Bentley T. Hall on April 13, 1968, in Orange, Texas. Marilyn was healed of cancer and wrote a book entitled "In His Hands." She spoke in churches and to women's groups all over the country and always had a smile on her face and a song in her heart. She brought out the best in everyone. Her philosophy in life was, "You have to love the unlovable." She is survived by her husband of 37 years, Bentley T. Hall of Joshua; son, Bentley Tyler Hall of Corpus Christi; daughter, Jennifer Paige Messer and husband, John, of Burleson; parents, Henry and Ernestine Rehorovic of Joshua; sister Marsha Tadsen and husband, Terry, of Burleson; grandson Jackson Bentley Messer of Burleson. Mountain Valley Funeral Home of Burleson was in charge of the arrangements.

ANGELA BONHAM JOHNSON
Granbury--Angela Bon-ham Johnson, 40, a homemaker, died Tuesday, December 9, 2003 at a Fort Worth hospital. Funeral services were held Friday, December 12 at Mountain Valley Funeral Home Chapel in Burleson. Burial was at Union Hill Cemetery in Joshua. Angela was born March 19, 1963 in Fort Worth to Farrell and Nelda Leonard Bonham. She is survived by her parents, Farrell and Nelda Bonham of Granbury; sons, Michael Hewett of Granbury, Casey Hewett of Joshua, Sean Johnson of Granbury; brothers, James Bonham and wife, Carla, of Crowley, Darrell Bonham and wife, Angie, of Granbury; many aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, and cousins. Mountain Valley Funeral Home of Burleson was in charge of the arrangements.

CHARLES FARMER
Burleson--Charles Farmer, 69, a retired driver for Tom's Peanut Co., died Wednesday, December 10, 2003 at a local hospital. Funeral services were held Friday, December 12 at Mountain Valley Funeral Home Chapel in Burleson. Burial was at Union Hill Cemetery in Joshua. Mr. Farmer was born August 1, 1934 in Navarro County to Asberry and Cora Green Farmer. He was a member of Tabernacle Baptist Church in Burleson. Charles was the "baby brother", a happy wonderful person, and everyone loved him. He is survived by his wife, Margaret Farmer of Burleson; sons, Danny Farmer and wife, Tina, of Burleson, Mark Farmer of Everman; daughter, Denise Underwood of Mansfield; brother, Jackie Farmer and wife, JoAnn, of Corsicana; sisters, Daphene Thompson of Fort Worth, Dorothy Pierce of Burleson, Patsy Smith of Purdon, Darlene Pruitt of Colleyville, Sue Reeves and husband, Homer, of Gainsville, Peggy Farmer and husband, Dwayne, of Flint; seven grandchildren; three great-grandchildren. Mountain Valley Funeral Home of Burleson handled the arrangements.

EFFIE WINKLER
Burleson--Effie Winkler, 88, a homemaker, passed away Tuesday, December 9, 2003 at a local nursing home in Burleson. Funeral services were held at 10:00 am Saturday, December 13 at Laurel Land Burleson. Burial was at Green Acres Memorial Park in Cleburne. Effie is survived by her sons, Robert Winkler and wife, Barbara, of Burleson, Walter Winkler and wife, Gladys of Joshua, Donald Winkler and wife, Dwanna, of Mesquite, and Terry Winkler and wife, Janet, of Burleson; daughter, Joyce Jenkins of Burleson; 14 grandchildren; 21 great-grandchildren; four great-great-grandchildren; brothers, Hubert Pearce and wife, Modena, of Burleson, and John Pearce and wife, Dovie, of Cabool, Missouri. Laurel Land Funeral Home of Burleson was in charge of the arrangements.

LENA SCHUMACHER
BURLESON -- Lena Schumacher, 87, a homemaker, passed away Tuesday, Dec. 9, 2003, in Fort Worth. Funeral services were held Friday, December 12 at Burleson Church of Christ. Burial was at Burleson Memorial Park. Lena was born July 12, 1916, to the late Richard Erskin and Laura Surginer-Halbert in Haslet. J.A., Lena and their family were the original owners of the Burleson Bowl during the 1960s and '70s, as well as J.A. Schumacher Construction Company. She was a member of the Burleson Church of Christ since 1960. Lena was preceded in death by her husband, Jimmie "J.A." Schumacher, in 1981; and brother, Sam Halbert. A special thanks the staff and nurses of Community Hospice, and to the Emery J. Lilge Hospice House. Survivors: Son, J.R. Schumacher and wife, Bea; daughter, Patty Huffman and husband, James; grandchildren, Jimmie Ray Schumacher Jr., Johnny Lee Schumacher and Stuart Huffman; great-grandchildren, Ashley, C.J., John-athan, Michael, Amanda and Christopher; and numerous nieces and nephews. Laurel Land Funeral Home Burleson was in charge of the arrangements.

Beatrice "Pete" Guthrie
Cleburne--Beatrice "Pete" Guthrie, 83, of Cleburne went to be with her Lord and her beloved husband Marvin on Wednesday, December 10, 2003. Funeral services for Mrs. Guthrie were held Saturday, December 13, 2003, at Crosier-Pearson-Mayfield Funeral Home Chapel, of Cleburne, with Rev. Russ Weaver officiating. Burial was at Godley Cemetery. Mrs. Guthrie, a homemaker, was born February 4, 1920 in Godley, the daughter of Corbie and Bertie (Simmons) Crocker. She married Marvin Henry Guthrie, May 10, 1941, in Corsicana, Texas. He preceded her in death November 22, 1996. She was also preceded in death by two daughters, one son and one sister. She is survived by son, Corbie Guthrie and wife Zoe; daughter, Gayle Jean Dawson; granddaughter, Misty Hiser and husband, Ben; grandson Brandon Holden and wife Jenifer; great-grandchildren, Trevor, Torie and Karissa; sisters, Venita Mastin and Corbie Johnson and husband Murlin; brother, Don Crocker and wife, Ann; brother-in-law, Bill Brown; sisters-in-law, Louise Leonard, Sue Bruce and Pauline Marshall and husband Bill and a host of other relatives and friends. View obituary & pictures, send condolences & order flowers at www.cpmfuneralhome.com
Crosier-Pearson-Mayfield Funeral Home of Cleburne handled the arrangements.

BOBBY JOE COLE
1948-2003
Burleson - Bobby Joe Cole, 55, a retired equipment operator for Brown and Root, died Saturday, December 6, 2003, at his residence. Funeral services were held at 10:00 a.m., Tuesday, December 9 at Mountain Valley Funeral Home Chapel in Burleson. Burial was at 3:00 p.m. at the Dallas-Fort Worth National Cemetery in Grand Prairie. Visitation was 6-8 p.m. Monday at the funeral home. Bob was born May 18, 1948, in Panama City, Florida. He proudly served his country in the U.S. Marine Corps with the 5th Marine Division during the Vietnam War. He was a highly decorated wounded Vietnam veteran. Bob is survived by his Special Friend, Margaret Landess of Kennedale; father, William L. Gray, Sr. of Pineville, Louisiana; daughter, Rachel Ranee Tedana of Fort Worth; brothers, Albert Ray Cole of Fort Worth, William L. Gray, Jr. and wife, Carol, of Joshua, Chris Lee Duhon and wife, Amy, of Pineville, Louisiana; sister, Michelle Ann Labro and husband, Mark, of Pineville, Louisiana; grandson, Eric Daniel Tedana; numerous nieces, nephews and cousins. Mountain Valley Funeral Home of Burleson handled the arrangements. (817) 517-5995

BOBBIE COLLINS
1914-2003
Bobbie Collins, 88, of Keene passed away Monday, November 17, 2003, in Keene. Services were held November 21, 2003, at Memorial Park Cemetery in Amarillo. Mrs. Collins was born December 6, 1914, in Endee, New Mexico to Robert Rodney and Bessie Myrtle Allen Rice. She was preceded in death by Doyle Osborne.
She is survived by daughters, Leona and Stan Neiman of Keene, Dottie McCartney and husband, Vern, of Eagle Creek; daughter-in-law, Shirley Osborne of Amarillo; brother, Frank Rice of Endee, New Mexico; grandchildren, Rick Hanson of Woodland, Washington, Lonnie Hanson of Spanaway, Washington, Robin Ford of Keene, Rocky Neiman of Arlington, Randy Neiman of Redding, California, Blane Osborne of Amarillo, and Dana of Amarillo; 20 great-grandchildren; five great-great-grandchildren. Memorials may be made Castle Peak Hospice, Holbrook Indian School, Holbrook Arizona, Voice of Prophesy.

MARJORIE ANN DRURY
1921-2003
Burleson - Marjorie Ann Drury, 82, a retired teacher, passed away Saturday, December 6, 2003, at a Fort Worth hospital. Funeral services will be held at 3:00 p.m. Thursday, December 11 at First United Methodist Church of Burleson. Burial will be at Laurel Land Memorial Park of Fort Worth. Visitation is 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday at Laurel Land Funeral Home of Burleson. Marjorie was born to the late L.G. and Sue May Nichols on January 11, 1921, in Harlingen. She taught for many years at various schools. She taught at junior high level for the Burleson ISD from 1968-1983. She had been a resident of Burleson since 1968. She was a member of the Retired Teachers Association of Burleson and First United Methodist Church. Marjorie was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Robert Zell Drury, Sr.; sister, Mary Elizabeth Holloway; and brother, R.A. "Dick" Nichols. She is survived by son and fiancée, Robert Zell Drury, Jr. and Roberta White; nephews, Billy and Tommy Holloway and their families; and sister-in-law, Mary Nichols. Memorials may be made to the Lupus Foundation or First United Methodist Church of Burleson. Laurel Land Funeral Home of Burleson is in charge of arrangements. (817) 295-5211

MELVENA GAYE PHILLIPS
1940-2003
BURLESON -- Melvena Gaye Phillips, 63, a retired Greeter for Wal-Mart, passed away Friday, December 5, 2003, at a Fort Worth hospital. A Memorial Service was held on Monday, December 8, at Blessing Colonial Chapel in Mansfield. Melvena was born June 18, 1940, in Littlefield, Texas, the daughter of Melvie Preston and Clara Belle Waldrop. She was a member of the Assembly of God Church in Kennedale. Mrs. Phillips is preceded in death by her daughter, Betty Elaine Phillips, and by her parents. She is survived by son, Melvie Renfro and wife, Tami; daughter, Linda Phillips; sons, Michael Phillips and wife, Dwana, Steve Phillips and wife, Annette; daughters, Charlotte Prater and husband, Sam, Vickie Davis and husband, Billy, Cathy Andrews and husband, Richard Woodcock; grandchildren, Cristy Butler and husband, Michael, Gerrick Diaz, Chad and Robin Trussell, Preston and Natalie Renfro, Laura and John Lough, Michael, Shelly, Chuck, David, Austin, Justin, and Morgan Phillips, Brandy Reeves, Charles Broach, Tamara and Eric Dexter; sisters, Janice Stewart, Lois Rawdon, Pauletta Sullivan, Ruby Curry; brother, Weldon Preston; 18 great-grandchildren; and many friends that loved her. Blessing Funeral Home of Mansfield was in charge of arrangements. (817)473-1555

REID RANKIN
1911-2003
Keene--Funeral services for Reid Rankin, 92, of Keene were held Sunday, December 7 at the Keene Memorial Chapel. Burial was in Keene Memorial Park. Mr. Rankin, a retired chef for Loma Linda University Hospital, in Loma Linda, California, passed away on Friday, December 5, 2003, in Fort Worth. He was on born November 23, 1911, in Kosoma, Oklahoma, the son of George Reid and Fanna Mae (Beauchamp) Rankin, Sr. He married Rubye Freeman on May 25, 1938. She preceded him in death on November 22, 2002. He was a member of the Keene Seventh-day Adventist Church. Mr. Rankin is survived by one brother, Robert Rankin of Albuquerque, New Mexico; nephew, Clinton Roberts of Cleburne; and a host of other nieces and nephews. View obituary and pictures, send condolences and order flowers at www.cpmfuneralhome.com Crosier-Pearson-Mayfield Funeral Home of Cleburne handled the arrangements.