John Henry Holcomb III(1930 - 2010) John Henry Holcomb III, 79, a loving husband and devoted father, died Tuesday, April 27, 2010, in Granbury.
Memorial service: 6 p.m. Friday at First Baptist Church of Granbury, where Jack and Louise have been members for 26 years.
Dr. John Henry Holcomb III was a lifelong educator, administrator, civic and military leader. He served 30 years in Colorado as teacher, principal and superintendent, and with the State Department of Education. He retired from the Army as a lieutenant colonel. He returned to his home state of Texas in the capacity of professor of administrative education at Tarleton State University. He continued to contribute to the community in retirement, serving on the local airport board and as a Texas Silver-Haired Legislator.
Survivors: Wife, Louise; sons, John, Greg and Bradford; daughter, Kimberly; two granddaughters; and two grandsons.
Published in Star-Telegram on April 29, 2010 |
John Raymond HawkinsAugust 12, 1926 - February 2, 2010John Raymond Hawkins, 83, a longtime resident of Snook, died Tuesday, February 2, 2010, at Copperas Hollow Nursing & Rehabilitation Center in Caldwell. Services were held Saturday, February 6, 2010, at Bethlehem Evangelical Lutheran Church in William Penn with Pastor Jeffrey King officiating. Interment followed in Snook Cemetery. Mr. Hawkins was born on August 12, 1926 in Rosemont, (Baltimore County) Maryland, the son of James Lewis Hawkins, Sr. and Nelllie A. DeBaufre Hawkins. He was married to Margaret Ruth Schoenberg on October 29, 1948 in Liberty, Texas and served in the Merchant Marines during World War II. John was a lifelong member of the Lutheran faith. He was baptized and confirmed in Lutheran churches in Rosemont and Glen Burnie, Maryland and he and his wife continued to practice their faith throughout their entire lives. John was a service oriented man, whether it was serving his church, his community or his country, he gave it his all. He was a member of Marion Mays American Legion Post # 455 of Somerville and a member of Bethlehem Evangelical Lutheran Church in the William Penn Community. He has been active in various Senior Advocacy Groups for over fifteen years, including being an active grassroots "Star" member of the National Committee to Preserve Social Security and Medicare; he served three 2-year terms in the Texas Silver-Haired Legislature serving Washington and Burleson Counties. He resigned in September of 1995 to serve as the Texas Senior Senator (National Silver-Haired Congress) for two 2-year terms and was Past-Chairman of District VI. He was Past Chairman of the Advisory Committee of Brazos Valley Area Agency on Aging; he served as Past-President of the National Council of Silver-Haired Legislators; he was a member of the Board of Directors of Central States Coalition on Aging; an active member of Texas Senior Advocacy Coalition; an active member of Scott & White Senior Care Advocacy Committee; he served three 2-year terms on the A.A.R.P. State Legislative Committee for Districts 30 and 32; and was a member of Texas New Century Alliance for Social Security. John was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, four brothers, James Hawkins, William Hawkins, Richard Hawkins and Edward Hawkins; and two sisters, Dorothy Hannon and Gloria Rogers. Survivors include his loving family consisting of his son and daughter-in-law, John R. Hawkins, Jr. and his wife, Susan, of Highland, Ind.; three daughters and a son-in-law, Susan R. and William Moore, of Snook, Christina R. Owens, of Humble and Theresa R. Dunlap, of New Albany, Ind.; four sisters and a brother-in-law, Nellie A. Wenzel, of New Castle, Pa., Jessie M. Slivecky, of North Fort Meyers, Fla., Joyce C. Strine, of Windom, Minn.; Lucille J. Cantrell and her husband, Glenn, of Pasadena, Md.; 11 grandchildren, 20 great-grandchildren, other family and numerous friends. |
Donald Carroll Brodnax(October 23, 1932 - October 17, 2009)Donald Carroll Brodnax was the only child of Estelle Farr and Leon Donald Brodnax, of Newton, Texas. He was born October 23, 1932 in Jasper and was raised in Newton by his mother and grandparents. He graduated from Newton High School and later attended Lamar University in Beaumont. He passed away at age 76 on October 17, 2009 at his home in Jasper after an extended illness. Known to young and old alike as Don Brodnax or simply as ‘Mr. B,’ his life was the culmination of a lifelong career of service to others, beginning in the very early years as an Eagle Scout and child prodigy in electronics, and later as an electrician, business owner, entrepreneur, and as a self-taught computer programmer. He began his career in the Social Services Industry in 1974, and co-founded a private, non-profit corporation in 1985 called East Texas Support Services, which specializes in State and Federal contracts and grants. He expanded the influence of this business over three decades to include the entire state of Texas, eventually being nominated to serve on the distinguished Texas Silver Haired Legislature, as well as the National Silver Haired Congress in Washington, D.C., where he helped co-author legislation to aid Senior Citizens both in Texas and across the Nation. He is survived by his wife of 33 years, Bobbie Brodnax; two sons, Bruce Brodnax & wife Diann of Orange, Texas and Drew Brodnax & wife Evonne of Jasper; two daughters, Teresa Janeaux & husband Dale of Jasper and Donna Tapley of Newton; grandchildren, Sterling Brodnax, Ashley Brodnax, Adam Brodnax (deceased), Brady Williams, Brock Williams, Beauxdean Williams, Letisha Peveto, Christopher Brewer, Steffany Duke, Katrena Brewer; and four great grandchildren. Visitation will be 6:00 to 8:00pm Monday, October 19 at Stringer & Griffin Funeral Home in Jasper. Memorial Services will be at the Stringer & Griffin Chapel Tuesday, October 20 at 10:00am with interment to follow at Newton City Cemetery in Newton. Memorial Donations may be made to Lakes Area Hospice of Jasper, P.O. Box 2086, Jasper, Texas 75951. |
Mary Poppy Hulsey, 87, died Thursday, February 26, 2009. A service celebrating her life will be held in First Presbyterian Church in Georgetown at 2:00 p.m., Sunday, March 1, 2009 officiated by Mike Roberts. A second service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Tuesday, March 3, 2009, in the First Presbyterian Church, Tulia, Texas officiated by her grandson, David Lee Hulsey, Jr. Burial will be in Rose Hill Cemetery, Tulia. Arrangements are by Corner Stone Funeral Home in Tulia. Mrs. Hulsey was born in Brownwood, Texas on November 25, 1921 to Jasper and Laura Galbreath. She graduated from high school in Fort Worth and attended Trinity University in Waxahachie. She married William Kirk Hulsey on June 10, 1941. They became permanent residents of Tulia. She was very active in Swisher County serving as a member of the senior board of Swisher County Historical Commission and was the driving force in publishing Windmilling which was the publication of the Swisher County history. Mrs. Hulsey was a charter member of the Texas Silver Haired Legislature. She served on the White House Conference on Aging and was a state director on AARP. She and Kirk helped organize the Swisher County Flying Farmers and was the State Flying Farmers Queen of 1953. The Hulseys moved to Georgetown in 1997. She was active in the neighborhood organizations, including bridge clubs in Sun City and the First Presbyterian Church of Georgetown. She was preceded in death by her husband Kirk in May 2003, a sister and a brother. She is survived by her daughter, Jane Burrow and husband Ken; sons, Bill, Chappy and David; five grandchildren and five great-grandchildren; and one sister, Nancy Nelson. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations may be made the Swisher County Museum in Tulia or to the charity of your choice. Words of comfort may be shared with the family at www.mem.com |
Max Christopher KennisonMax Christopher Kennison, 80, of Austin, Texas, passed away on February 2, 2009. He was born in Indiana in 1928 by parents Fred and Fern Kennison. He left his home on his own when he was 13 and spent much of his childhood with his uncles and a foster family, Ma and Pop Kyer. Max served in the U.S. Navy at age 18 for 4 years just after WWII, and volunteered to serve again in the Korean War, where he sustained combat injuries, which ended his military career. He was awarded several medals for his service. After returning to the U.S., he completed a Bachelor of Science in Engineering at New York University, and a master’s degree in Nuclear Physics. Max worked in the field of nuclear engineering and physics at several companies including RCA in New Jersey, and later worked in nuclear physics at ORTEC in Tennessee where he made significant contributions in the field of Neutron Spectrometry and had several articles published. His career brought him to Austin, Texas in 1968 and he worked in a similar field at Accelerators Inc. in Austin, Texas. He later formed Microlec, a manufactures representative company, and spent the last several years of his working career selling electronic assembly equipment used for circuit board production. After retiring, Max spent much of his time volunteering for different causes he believed in, particularly for those causes concerning senior citizens. He also served with the Texas Silver Haired Legislature. Max will be remembered by his cheerful and positive nature. He had the uncanny ability to charm most people he met. He was a gifted conversationalist and had many ideas for topics of conversation. Max loved the Port Aransas area, and was an avid fisherman. He would often visit the area with his sons when they were younger, and taught them lots of cleaver ways to catch fish. He also taught them to enjoy the experience even when no fish were caught. Max is survived by his four sons, David Kennison, Chris Kennison, Kevin Kennison and Kirk Kennison, and his two daughters, Evie Delmar and Charisse Gamble. He is also survived by 9 grandchildren and 2 great-grandchildren. Services will be held at Cook Walden Funeral Home, at 6100 N Lamar Blvd, at 3:30pm. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to in Max Kennison’s memory to the Austin Children’s Shelter, P.O. Box 684213, Austin, Texas 78768-4213. |
James Edward "Jim" CowgillCowgill, James Edward (Jim) Born in Dallas, TX on May 24, 1932 to parents Elmer and Effie Cowgill. He was educated in Dallas Public Schools and at Southern Methodist University. He was a member of Centenary Methodist Church from birth to marriage, and a member of Casa Linda United Methodist Church since 1954. He was employed by the City of Dallas Engineers, Water Department, for 33 years and Gifford Hill and Company for 10 years. He was a member of the Coffee Cup Sunday School Class. He was also a member and chairman of various committees, administrative boards and trustees, including; The Technical Club of Dallas, American Society of Civil Engineers, The American Academy of Science, American Association of Retired Persons, 55 Alive Instructor, AARP Chapters, #3880, #12, #2252, and # 4375, Health Care Chairman, #3880, Metropolitan Dallas Legislative Council, AARP Criminal Justice Service, Past District Coordinator of Texas Metro District, Past Community Coordinator, TX. Jim has been a member of the Advocacy Group for Elders Program (AGE) since 1994. One of the highlights of Jim’s efforts was his hard work as a Texas Silver-Haired Legislator (TSHL) to author and pass a resolution to allow cities, counties and junior college districts the option of freezing the property taxes for seniors and persons with disabilities. The measure was meant to ease the financial burden of people on fixed incomes. Next, Jim led his fellow TSHL members to find legislators to write a bill and work for passage in the 78th State Legislative Session. They succeeded!! The following is a list of some of the groups Jim dedicated time to:
Jim Cowgill has made a difference for all older adults in the State of Texas on the tax freeze issue, but it is only one example of issues that he has been involved in. He has educated older adults on issues that affect them, he has taught older adults how to advocate, and he has been a great advocate for older Jim was a U.S. Navy veteran and served on the destroyer U.S.S. Owen in Korea. His hobbies included golf, photography and his grandchildren. He is survived by wife, Avanell; daughters, Patty Hopkins and husband David, and Janet Pennington and husband Mike; and grandchildren, Russell Hopkins, Dyann Hopkins and Christopher Moeri. Visitation will be from 6 to 8 PM Tuesday January 13, 2008 at Restland Funeral Home. Memorial service will be at 3:30PM Wednesday January 14, 2008 at Restland Memorial Chapel. In lieu of flowers, send memorials to Casa Linda United Methodist Church. |
J.D. KahlerJ.D. was born in Dallas, Texas on March 6th, 1918. He lived in Texas all his life except for 10 years when he and his wife Mattie were transferred to New Orleans, La. After leaving New Orleans, they moved back to Dallas where they lived the remainder of their lives. J.D. lost his wife Mattie in February of 1996 and married Ethel Flourine Gumm in January of 2001. J.D. went to work for Santa Fe Railroad in 1939 in Forth Worth, Texas and retired in Dallas in 1982 as Area Sales Representative having completed over 43 years of uninterrupted service After his retirement in 1982 he pursued his passion for music and discovered a life of service working on behalf of seniors in his community. His service would include representative for District III for the Texas Silver Haired Legislature in Dallas County for 2 years, member of Area Agency on Aging Advisory Council for 2 years, and a member of the Executive Committee of the Age Program at The Senior Source for 3 years. He was also very active in the Elmwood Senior Center, AARP, and Oak Cliff Christian Church. He was a member of the Dallas Banjo Band and has his own band. He is survived by his daughter, Andrea Denuszek, his grandson, Nathan Cyrus, his wife, Ethel Flourine Kahler, a brother, Bobby Kahler, and a sister, Martha Glasser and their families as well as many loving relatives and friends. He will be dearly missed by all who knew and loved him. |
Nancy Dana FosterNancy Dana Foster was born on March 18, 1934 in Boston, Massachusetts to Rita and Alfred Foster and died on October 4, 2008 in her home in Frisco, TX. She enjoyed an exciting childhood of sailing, ballet and winter sports in Massachusetts and New Hampshire. She graduated from Salem High School and attended Colby College. She then went on to study and dance in New York City. She married Albert McPhail in 1951 and they lived in Caribou, Maine while Albert was in the Air Force. They moved to Marshall, Texas in 1953 and created a wonderful life for their three children: Leslie, Amy and Douglas. Nancy's creative and social energy brought many things to this part of the world. She was a founder and first president of the Marshall Symphony League, started a gift shop within the family hardware store and ran a ballet school out of her studio on Riggs Circle. Nancy was very active in theatrical productions at ETBC and Marshall High School and choreographed many productions including Oklahoma!, Bye, Bye Birdie and Music Man. There were many back yard productions of Peter and the Wolf, Copellia, Hansel and Gretel that presented magical moments for many families. She choreographed, directed, designed scenery and costumes for every production with endless passion and attention to detail. Nancy still found time to entertain, sew, paint and travel. She also started dance therapy classes for nursing home residents and mental patients at Rusk State Hospital. This led to a position as President of the Texas Nursing Home Association. She served on many boards and spoke to many groups about the benefits of an active, stimulating life for the elderly. In 1975 Nancy and Douglas moved to Dallas, Texas when she accepted an Ombudsman position with Parkland Hospital. She was very active in the Dallas community and served on many boards. She went on to work for a hospice organization, Beverly Enterprises and the Salvation Army. Nancy enjoyed dancing with the Dallas Ballet in character roles during productions of Nutcracker. Her long battle with pain and illness led to an early but short retirement. In the late 1990's she ran for and won a seat in the Texas Silver Haired Legislature. Her incredible writing skills put forth many a bill to protect the elderly and her public speaking abilities made her a popular and respected legislator. She held her seat for many years all the while battling illness. Her contributions will be remembered by many. Nancy is survived by her sister and family, Joan and Walter Barndt of Grantham, NH and children Beth and Mary Dana; daughter Leslie McPhail Peterson and family Glenn and Molly of Mankato, MN; daughter Amy McPhail Bartell and family Dan, Tim and Paul; son Douglas McPhail of Marshall, TX; and close friends Beverly and David Leonard of Austin, TX. A memorial service will be held at 3:00pm on Monday, October 27 at Church of the Holy Communion Episcopal, 17405 Muirfield Drive, Dallas, TX 75287, ph(972)248-6505. We are very grateful for the Faith Hospice organization in Frisco, TX for their kindness and supreme care given to Nancy in her final hours. Donations can be made to Faith Hospice, 6100 Colwell Boulevard, Suite 225, Irving, TX 75039-3112. |
Elmer Sansom IngleVisitation: Tuesday, January 8, 2008 4:00 PM until 6:00 PM Sam Houston Memorial Funeral Home of Willis 10129 FM 1097 W Willis, TX 77318 Service: Wednesday, January 9, 2008 2:00 PM Sam Houston Memorial Funeral Home of Willis 10129 FM 1097 W Willis, TX 77318 Elmer Sansom Ingle, Jr. was born on January 13, 1929 in Ft. Worth, Texas to Elmer and Imogene Head Ingle. He had an enthusiasm for flying, earning his private pilot’s license at an early age and becoming a captain squadron leader in the Civil Air Patrol. He had 3 years in the Naval Air Organized Reserve. Throughout his life, Mr. Ingle enjoyed hunting, camping, fishing, and caring for his (pampered) cattle on his farm in Willis. He attended, at various times, North Texas Agricultural College (now University of Texas at Arlington), Alvin Junior College and the University of Houston. Mr. Ingle was a member of the congregation of the First United Methodist Church of Willis. He was active in many activities of the Methodist Church through the years including his service as Sunday School Superintendent, on the Commission on Missions, Pastoral Council, and the Administrative Council. Mr. Ingle retired from Southwestern Bell Telephone Company in 1983 after 36 years in various management positions. During his employment with the telephone company, he participated in many community service opportunities including the United Way Campaign in Houston, Packmaster and District Chair of the Trinity-Natchez Council of the Boy Scouts of America, the Liberty and East Texas Chambers of Commerce, the American Red Cross in Liberty as Fund Drive Chairman and Director, the Rotary Club, and as president of the Toastmasters of Austin. He continued his affiliation with the telephone company after his retirement through the Pioneers of America, where he was president of the Humanitarian Club. Mr. Ingle’s service to others did not end with his retirement. Since moving to Willis, Mr. Ingle served in fundraising activities of the United Way, as Board President of the Crisis Action Line, on the Montgomery County Grief Support Team, nine years as a mediator for the Montgomery County Dispute Resolution Center, as a volunteer for Project L.O.V.E. for the Willis Independent School District and as a volunteer at Conroe Regional Medical Center. He served for over 10 years in the Texas Silver-Haired Legislature promoting rights and services for older citizens. Mr. Ingle was a Masonic Lodge member for 57 years and was an active member of the San Jacinto Lodge 106. Mr. Ingle is survived by his wife, Verna Bellnoski Ingle; daughters Louann (wife of Kenneth Gum, of Tennessee) and Laura (wife of Patrick Doré, of Austin); stepson Clifford McPherson (and his wife Tami, of Houston); and grandchildren Ross Gum of Tennessee, Derek Gum of Tennessee, Mallory McPherson Hawley of Houston, Roxanne McPherson of Houston, and Melissa and Amelie Doré of Bordeaux, France. Visitation will be held Tuesday, January 8 from 4-6 PM at Sam Houston Memorial Funeral Home in Willis. Services are scheduled for Wednesday, January 9 at 2 PM in the Chapel of Sam Houston Memorial Funeral Home in Willis with Pastor Jeff Gantz officiating. Interment following service at Shepherd Hill Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, Elmer requested contributions be sent to the San Jacinto Lodge 106, the First United Methodist Church of Willis, or the charity of your choice. |
Glen Jerome PetersonApril 3, 1930 - July 15, 2007 Glen Jerome Peterson died of lung cancer on July 15, 2007, at his home in Boerne. He loved his wife of 49 years, Laverne, his sons Jim and Mark, and his grandchildren Eric, Emily, Lilia and Sam. Born in Akron, Ohio, to James and Leah Peterson on April 3, 1930, he lived in Arizona and graduated from San Angelo Texas High School. He was Golden Glove boxing champion and served in the Navy during the Korean era. He managed his family's service stations, sold cars, and ran for Congress in Corpus Christi where he was married and his first son was born. He moved his family to Kerr County in 1962 where his second son was born. Working as a nursing assistant with the Veteran's Administration, he was recruited as a union organizer with the American Federation of Government Employees, organizing almost every local west of the Mississippi. He later was elected (usually by unanimous vote) international Vice President and served on the executive board of the AFGE where he worked tirelessly to improve the lot of working men and women in and out of federal government. From 1994 to the present he was a member of the Texas Silver Haired Legislature and the National Silver Haired Congress. He was a Master Parliamentarian, Admiral in the Texas Navy, a Kentucky Colonel, a federal administrative judge and received honorary PhDs from several universities. He was a stalwart Democrat who served as a campaign manager for Ralph Yarborough and Hubert Humphrey and was responsible for helping organize the campaigns of many local and statewide elected officials. He served as a delegate to almost every State Democratic Convention until his retirement and was a delegate to or attended most National Conventions. He served as Chairman of the Kendall County Democrats. A frequent traveler he became Mikhail Gorbachev's guest in the Soviet Union at President Reagan's request. He visited most European countries and Israel twice. He enjoyed frequent cruise ship vacations to Mexico, the Caribbean and Alaska. As a Christian he started every day with “Thank you Jesus” and grew to become his savior's hands and feet to those he came in contact with everyday. Named “Bud” by his older brother when he was infant, he was a brother to all. Glen is survived by his wife, LaVerne Peterson of Boerne; sons Jim Peterson and Glen is survived by his wife, LaVerne Peterson of Boerne; sons Jim Peterson and wife Suzi of Bulverde and Mark Peterson and wife Margaret of Pipe Creek; four grandchildren; sister Patricia Zeller and husband Robert of Corpus Christi; brothers James Eugene Peterson and wife Gay of Humble, Paul David Peterson and wife Bonnie of Victoria, and Robert Andrew Peterson and wife Karen of Ingleside. Visitation was held from 5 to 7 p.m. Tuesday, July 17, at the Ebensberger Funeral Home. Funeral services were at 1 p.m. Wednesday, July 18, at the First United Methodist Church of Boerne. A private interment will be held at a later date. Arrangements were with Ebensberger Funeral Home of Boerne. |
Taps for Carl W. HoffmannMonday, March 12, 2007 Abilene Reporter-News EASTLAND - Carl W. (Dub) Hoffmann, Jr. prominent businessman and resident of Eastland, Texas, passed away Sunday, March 11, 2007. Funeral Services will be held Tuesday March 13, 2007 at 10 a.m. in the First Baptist Church in Eastland conducted by Dr. Shawn Brewer and Dr. Eric McKinney. Dub was born in Eastland on June 5, 1938, to the late C. W. and Bess Hoffmann. As a young boy he attended Eastland Elementary and graduated from Peacock Academy in San Antonio. He attended Texas Tech and Lubbock Christian in Lubbock. Returning to Eastland in September 1963, he managed Eastland Supply which his family owned. In 1968, Dub purchased Poe Floral and was known for his superior floral business for twenty-six years. Dub loved his home town and was always willing to help and strived to improve his community. He was a member of First Baptist Church, Eastland Masonic Lodge, Fort Worth Scottish Rite, Moslah Temple, Eastland City Commissioner serving as Chairman of the Board from 1988 to 1995. West Central Texas Council of Government Executive Board, Eastland Chamber of Commerce, Rotary Club, Eastland Food Pantry Board, Eastland Antique Car Club, and an active member of the Texas Silver Haired Legislature, serving on the Retirement & Aging Committee as well as on the Operations Committee. Dub was honored by the Eastland Chamber with the Golden Deed Award. Survivors include wife, Jean; Son Carl W. (Trey) Hoffmann of Dallas; Daughter Tiffany Hoffmann Turetzky and Husband, David of Secaucus, New Jersey; Step-Son, Mike Carter and Wife Dana of Longview and two Grandchildren, Laura Jean Carter and Zach Turetzky. He was preceded in death by his parents, brother, W. H. Hoffmann, Sr., and sister Mary Katherine Hoffmann Gavrel. Memorial may be made to the charity of your choice. |
Taps for Earl M. LandisEarl M. Landis, 90, entered eternal rest Sunday, Jan. 14, 2007, in Fort Worth. He was born July 30, 1916, in Brookville, Ohio. Funeral: private. Burial: private. Visitation: private. Memorials: In lieu of flowers, the family wishes to have the public make donations in their own names to the American Heart Association or a charity of choice. Earl served in World War II and worked for several decades as a printing press engineer. He also served several terms in the Texas Silver-Haired Legislature where he influenced the response to situations affecting the elderly. Survivors: Loving wife of more than 60 years, Doris Landis; daughter, Judy, and son, Mark Landis; sister, Glenna Jordan of Brookville, Ohio; and several extended-family members. Published in the Star-Telegram on 1/16/2007 |
Taps forThe Honorable Jim CaldwellJames Duncan (Jim) Caldwell, Sr. of Kingsland, TX passed away on February 17, 2006 at age 68. He was born in Dallas, Texas on November 11, 1937 to James Hogg Caldwell and Cathryn Duncan Caldwell. He had resided in Kingsland for the past 30 years, moving here from Dallas and was a Texas Silver-Haired Legislator for District Four. Jim was the director of the Llano County Food Pantry, a member of the Masonic Lodge, and a member of the First Baptist Church of Kingsland. He is survived by his daughter, Alexa Caldwell, of Newport Beach, CA; his son, James D. Caldwell, Jr. and wife, Dena, and grandchildren Taylor Mackenzie Caldwell and Karlee Rae Caldwell of Huntington Beach, CA. A memorial service and celebration of his life was held Wednesday, March 15, 2006, at First Baptist Church of Kingsland, with Rep Tony Goolsby, a long-time friend telling stories about Jim and his experiences, and Rev. Doug Lindley officiating/ Rev. Lindley used 2 Timothy 4:6-8 as being descriptive of Jim and his life: …and the time has come for my departure. I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. … Eulogy by Carlos Higgins A Celebration of Life service for Jim Caldwell was held yesterday (March 15, 2006)in Kingsland. Here’s how fitting and well done the service was. As you all must know, Jim smoked. He smoked a lot! But Jim would have appreciated this service and the gathering of his friends so much –he would not even have thought about taking one of his frequent smoke breaks. Jim’s favorite preacher conducted the service. Pastor Doug Lindley’s respect and admiration for Jim was apparent. Jim’s life-long friend, Texas State Representative Tony Goolsby, delivered a warm-hearted eulogy. He began his remarks with a promise, with eyes lifted up to Jim: that – not to worry - he wasn’t going to tell everything he knew about Jim. The Honorable Jim Caldwell - Texas Silver-Haired Legislator In this life, when Jim was present, it wasn’t long before everyone else present knew who Jim was. That was true in Jim’s countless visits to the state Capitol on behalf of Texas senior citizens. Here’s just one example: Jim and I testified many times before Texas Legislative Committees. My testimony was generally straightforward and to the point. Committee members would listen respectfully. When Jim testified, he’d make the same point, but with humor, gusto and a down-to-earth delivery. They not only listened to Jim, they (along with the audience) frequently rolled with laughter, and everyone remembered Jim. And they remembered his message. As a Texas Silver-Haired Legislator and tireless advocate for senior issues, Jim was very well known and respected among the members of our Texas House and Senate, and by the Governor. And he was successful. A timely and highly apropos legislative event occurred just two days before Jim’s untimely death. The number one issue the TSHL advocated for, an issue that Jim gave a great amount of effective time and attention to was finally approved. The issue was a personal needs allowance for many of our state’s most needy senior citizens. The way was finally paved for an increase in that allowance, and Jim clearly deserves a big share of the credit for that success. After the service, members of the First Baptist Church in Kingsland provided food and drinks for the gathering of Jim’s family, friends and supporters. Many members of the TSHL attended. During this luncheon, Speaker Chris Kyker presented to the Caldwell family a TSHL lap blanket in memory of Jim and his sustained fine works for the TSHL and for the citizens of Texas. Jim and I were very much a part of the “Capitol Crew” for TSHL legislative efforts. I will miss Jim. We will ALL miss him. By Carlos Higgins TSHL |
Taps forThe Honorable Calvin E. StewartCalvin “Cal” E. Stewart, 82, of Orange died December 30, 2005, at his residence. He is interned at Valhalla Cemetery. Mr. Stewart was born in Birmingham, Alabama and was a longtime resident of Orange. He was a structural engineer for American Bridge-U.S. Steel and was in the Navy Reserves. He was a member of the Mason Lodge 269 in Illinois, Orange County Sheriff’s Alumni Association, Silver Hair Legislator and Senior Watch Program. He was also a member of North Orange Baptist Church, the Birmingham Square Dance Association, National Campers and Hikers Association, Area Agency on Aging and the Retired Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP). He was preceded in death by his wife, Dorothy Stewart; parents, Henry and Minnie (Mitchell) Stewart; and son, Roscoe Stewart. He is survived by his daughters, Mary Margaret “Sissy” Hampton of Birmingham, AL and Fay Ann Powell and husband Terry of Orange; son, Walter Edward Stewart and wife Cathy of Carrollton; grandchildren, Ed and Anthony Hampton, Wendy Roberts, Dustin and Trevor Powell and Emma Stewart; and great-granddaughter, Haley Michelle Roberts. In lieu of flowers the family wishes donations be made to the Southeast Texas Hospice, 912 W. Cherry, Orange, TX 77630. |
Taps forThe Honorable Naomi Elaine Davis NortonNaomi Elaine Davis Norton, of Midland, passed away Saturday, October 22, 2005. She was born September 7, 1917 in Abilene, Texas to James H. Davis and Lula E. Lockley Davis. A graduate of Abilene High School, Mrs. Norton earned a B.A. at Hardin-Simmons University, and a M.S. from the University of Texas. On August 24, 1947, she married David L. Norton. Mrs. Norton taught 31 years in Texas schools, from elementary to college level. Naomi was inducted into Stephen F. Austin High School's Hall of Honor. She was a Texas Silver-Haired Legislator and a member of the National Silver Haired Congress. Naomi was a member of the First Presbyterian Church of Midland. She was active in Eastern Star and many community organizations. A member of "Who's Who", she received numerous honors and awards. She was preceded in death by her parents and her husband. |
Taps for The Honorable Ingram SmithFriday was a sad day. News came that The Honorable Ingram Smith had passed away. He was a very special friend to many of us. He served in the TSHL six terms (the fourth through the ninth term). He was unable to return for the 10th term because of his declining health. Ingram Smith was a kind and loving man. There was never any contradiction between what he believed and the way he lived. Soon after he returned from World War II he got married and bought a new 1948 model pick up truck. He figured that his wife and pick up should last a lifetime. He took good care of them. To celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary he fired up his old pick up truck and took his wife for a ride. She passed away a few years ago. When he passed away on August 25, 2005, his wife's clothes were still hanging neatly in their clothes closet. His pick up truck was in the garage ready for one last final trip. When he got to Heaven his wife was holding the gate wide open for him. May Ingram rest in peace! By Tom Perkins TSHL |
Taps for The Honorable Honorable Elizabeth Sheridan GunnersonELIZABETH SHERIDAN GUNNERSON (BETTE), 79, passed away on Saturday, December 3, 2005 in Galveston, Texas. She was born in Jersey City, New Jersey on September 6, 1926 to Sarah Coyle and William Sheridan. She graduated from St. Dominic's Academy in Jersey City, New Jersey and on November 16, 1946 was married to Robert (Bob) Gunnerson. Bette was preceded in death by her husband, Robert (Bob) Gunnerson; granddaughter, Mary Briza; grandson, John Briza; brother, William Sheridan; brother-in-law, Robert Schuttinger; nephew, Kenneth Schuttinger. She leaves to cherish her memories daughters Karen Briza and husband Chris, Anne Gunnerson, Lori Rosendale and husband Stephen; son Robert Gunnerson; ten grandchildren; five great grandchildren; sisters Jean Schuttinger, Marie Eeva and husband Dominic; brother John (Jack) Sheridan and wife Charlotte; many nieces and nephews; and a multitude of friends. Bette worked as an Insurance Claims Examiner but spent most of her life as a very loving and devoted wife, mother, sister, aunt, grandmother, and great grandmother. Her strong devotion to her Catholic faith guided her life and impacted all whose lives she touched. Bette was very active in both her Church and community. Before moving to Houston in 1976 she was a member of the Rosary Society at St. Mary Star of the Sea Catholic Church in Far Rockaway, New York. She then became an active member of first St. Michael's Parish and subsequently St. Cyril of Alexandria Parish where she was very involved in the Focolare Movement. Bette served as a Eucharistic Minister and Lector at St. Dominic Village where she resided in Independent Living for five years before moving to Galveston. While at St. Dominic's Bette became an outspoken advocate for senior issues. She held leadership positions in the Senior Senate and was appointed to the Silver Haired Legislature co-authoring a Bill in the State Senate that would provide funds for those needing Assisted Living accommodations. Unfortunately, this Bill was tabled until the next Legislative session. Bette continued to serve in the Silver Haired Legislature until her death making frequent trips to Austin as an advocate for senior issues. Last February Bette could not resist the call of the Gulf and moved to Galveston to be near the beach where she felt so close to God. She described it as an inspirational place conducive to prayer and meditation. For these last few months she attended Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Galveston and made many new friends in her Bible Study there. Many thanks are extended to all those friends who have made her life fuller, especially Ms. Kathy Bingham. |
Taps for The Honorable Rachel Beall-vonTungelnRachel Beall-vonTungeln was born March 23, 1916, in Johnson County, the daughter of Lavirne and E.K. Mahanay. At age 2, she moved to Fort Worth, where she lived until moving to Dallas in 2003 to be near her daughter. She was a legal secretary and served as a civilian court reporter for the U.S. Navy during World War II. She served 10 years in the Texas Silver Haired Legislature, where she chaired several committees and was on the executive board. She was Representative-at-Iarge for Tarrant County. Following that, she was a member for three years of the National Silver Haired Congress, which conducted its business in Washington, D.C. She was a lifetime member of the National Council of Silver Haired Legislature. She was also a member of the National Association of Retired Federal Employees Fort Worth Chapter 30, where she held several offices. She worked with several organizations dealing with the affairs of the elderly, both locally and nationally. She was preceded in death by her husbands, James W. Beall and J. E. vonTungeln. Survivors: Her daughter, Celia Beall Scott and son-in-law Robert E. Scott of Dallas; grandson, Doug Scott; and great-grandchildren, Rob and Taylor Scott of Grand Prairie. |
Taps for The Honorable Bill SagstetterBill Sagstetter, "Word Master," was born to be a Journalist. While in High School he became editor of the school paper. He majored in Journalism at the University of Texas in Austin then spent his working career doing journalistic work. That was not enough for Bill. He was elected to the Texas Silver-Haired Legislature. His second term, he was elected Chairman of the Communications Committee and became editor of the Silver Bulletin. He developed the Silver Bulletin into a first class document that was enjoyed by all who read it. Before he became too ill to work he had published 29 issues. Honorable Bill Sagstetter was given Emeritus Honors by the members of the TSHL to show their respect and esteem for him. To his wife Margaret, thanks for sharing this great man with us. Honorable Bill Sagstetter Emeritus, we miss you. By Tom Perkins TSHL |
Taps for The Honorable Felix NighFelix Nigh was a big man with a big heart who left a big hole, which, before he left, he had filled with energy and strong convictions. We will miss Felix but know he is in a better place where he is having a large family reunion. He has graduated to a better place and we all look forward to being with him later. Thank you Lois for sharing Felix with the Texas Silver-Haired Legislature and the National Silver-Haired Congress. By Homer Lear Speaker Emeritus TSHL |
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