2009 Obituaries

Fort Hood announced the death of a Soldier who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Sgt. Timothy Allen David, of Gladwin, Michigan, died June 28, 2009 in Baghdad, Iraq, of wounds suffered earlier in Sadr City, Iraq, when an improvised explosive device detonated near his vehicle.
David joined the military in April 2001 as an Infantryman and was assigned to 2nd Battalion, 5th Cavalry Regiment, 1st Brigade Combat Team, 1st Calvary Division, Fort Hood, Texas, since February 2006. David deployed to Iraq in December 2008.
David’s military awards and decorations include the Army Commendation Medal with Valor, Army Achievement Medal, Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Iraq Campaign Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Noncommissioned Officer Professional Development Ribbon, Army Service Ribbon, and Overseas Service Ribbon.

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Sgt. Shameka Nicole Jones
Sgt. Shameka Nicole Jones, 26 of Vadslia, Louisiana died Monday June 22, 2009 at Fort Hood, Texas after allegedly being stabbed by her former husband.
The former husband, a civilian, was apprehended and transferred to the FBI’s custody in Waco.
Jones entered the Army in November 2005 as a construction equipment repairer. She was assigned to 59th Mobility Augmentation Company, 20th Engineer Battalion, 36th Engineer Brigade since May 2006.
Sgt. Jones deployed to Iraq in Nov. 2007 and returned in Feb. 2009.
Sgt. Jones awards and decorations include the Army Commendation Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Iraq Campaign Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Army Service Ribbon, Overseas Service Ribbon and Army Reserve Component Overseas Training Ribbon.

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Allen D. Mosley
Services for Allen D. Mosley, age 91, of Austin and formerly of Salado were held June 27, 2009 at First Baptist Church of Salado with Rev. Ryan Arnold officiating with Jim Fitzhenry and Don Jeffreys speaking. Burial followed in the Salado Cemetery.

Mr. Mosley died June 24 in a Austin hospital.
He was born in Wingate, Texas August 12, 1917 to Allen Broughton and Emma Bessie (Smith) Mosley. He was a graduate of Winters High School. He served in the U.S. Army Air Corp during World War II as a aircraft mechanic. He married Elisabeth Street November 28, 1939 in Elm Springs in rural Bell County. He was stationed in San Angelo and later settled there where he was a rural letter carrier for 31 years. Upon his retirement he moved to Salado where he lived until recently. He was a member of the Masonic Lodge in Salado and First Baptist Church of Salado.
Survivors include his wife, Elisabeth Mosley of Austin, 2 sons, Martin Derward Mosley of Keller and Harlan Ray Mosley of Austin, 2 sisters, Dortha Howard of Keller and Sudell Jeffreys of Converse, 12 grandchildren and 4 great grandchildren.
In lieu of flowers the family request memorials be made to the Salado Cemetery or the charity of choice.

Dossman Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

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Paul Edwin Boggs

Paul Edwin Boggs passed away on Saturday June 20, 2009, in Mt. Pleasant. Funeral Services will be held Monday June 22, 2009 at the First Presbyterian Church of Mt. Pleasant at 2:00 P.M. Visitation will be Sunday night from 6:00 to 8:00 P.M. at the Curry-Welborn Funeral Home.
Boggs was born March 25, 1920 in Commerce, Texas, the son of Edgar Benton Boggs and Frances Pauline Pattillo Boggs.

He graduated from high school in Commerce and attended East Texas State Teacher’s College in Commerce. He graduated in 1939 with a B.S. degree from East Texas, and received his M.S. degree from the University of Texas at Austin in 1942.
He joined the Navy and proudly served his country during World War II as an officer on the U.S.S. Rebel, a minesweeper in the South Pacific where he participated in the battles of Iwo Jima and Okinawa.
After the war while turning his ship into dry dock in Orange, Texas he met the love of his life, Barbara Helen LeFloor. It is reported that when he first met her he told his best friend that was the girl he was going to marry. Eventually they married January 25, 1947 and started their life together in Dallas, Texas. This union produced a daughter, Lenice Boggs Smithwick, and a son, Donald Bryan Boggs.
Boggs began working as an auditor for Braniff Airlines. He studied for and passed his entire C.P.A. exam the first try. He began working for Intercontinental Manufacturing Co. in Garland, Texas as head of the accounting department. He eventually became Treasurer of the company and then later served as President. Paul was a very active member of the National Association of Accountants serving as president of the Texas chapter. Paul was very proud to be a 32nd degree mason, a Shriner, and a member of the Lions Club for over 20 years.
The Boggs entered the next stage of their lives in 1972 when they moved to Mount Pleasant, Texas. He started a private C.P.A. business while Barbara opened an interior decorating business. While living in Mount Pleasant Paul served as president of the Chamber of Commerce, County Auditor of Titus County and as elder and Treasurer of the First Presbyterian Church of Mount Pleasant.
In 1991 they moved to Salado for retirement until Barbara was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s Disease. They were active members of the First United Methodist Church of Salado. He was the sole caregiver of Barbara and devoted his life to her care until she died in Nov. 2004. He remained in Salado for another year until he moved back to Mount Pleasant to live with his son, Don. He was a resident of the Pleasant Springs Nursing Facility of Mount Pleasant at the time of his death.
Boggs was preceded in death by his parents, one brother, Don Wendell Boggs, his wife, Barbara Boggs, and one grandson, Richard Boggs. He is survived by a daughter, Lenice Boggs Smithwick and husband, Jack of Florence; a son, Donald B. Boggs and wife, Annaleisa of Mount Pleasant, Texas; granddaughters Jaime Smithwick Cowan and husband, David, of Round Rock, Texas, and Sarah Boggs of Miami, Florida; grandsons Bryan Boggs of Arlington, Texas and Joseph Boggs and wife Sheila of Altus, Oklahoma; and great-grandchildren Olivia and Reece Cowan of Round Rock, Texas.

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David Evans

David Evans, Jr., 70, of Salado died June 20 at his residence. Funeral services were held June 23, 2009 at the First Baptist Church in Salado, Rev. Randy Carder and Rev. James Haney officiated. Interment followed at Salado Cemetery.
David was born on December 3, 1938 in Oglesby to Emil David (San) and Geraldine Ethridge Evans, Sr. He married Laura Dean Humphrey on August 28, 1964 in Belton, Texas.
David graduated in 1959 from Temple Junior College with an Associated of Applied Science then received his Bachelor of Science Degree in 1961 and his Masters in Education in 1967 from Southwest Texas State. He did post graduate work at the Killeen Campus in Supervision.
He taught at the same school, Nolan Middle School in Killeen for 44 years. He was the Talented and Gifted (TAG) Coordinator. During his tenure with the Killeen Independent Schools he received numerous awards and recognition among some of the most notable were the Kileen Herald’s Teacher of Excellence Award, Nominee for the Outstanding and Notable Teacher of America, Primo Palomino Emeritus Award from Teachers Under my Supervision, Awarded the State Historical Commission Award for Excellence in Historical Markers, City of Killeen Award for Teaching Excellence, Nominated for The Texas Teacher of the year for State and National Competition, Certificate and Plaque of Appreciation from Scott & White Hospital for facilitating eleven Historical Markers for the Hospital and Staff, Region 12 Gifted Teacher Award, Award of Excellence from the House of Representatives for Teaching Excellence. He also received numerous letters, certificates and awards from the Governor House of Representatives and Senators for his many accomplishments.
Evans served on the Bell County Historical Commission for 20 years as Marker Chairman for the County. He was on the Bell County Historical Commission for 20 years as Marker Chairman for the County. He was an avid gardener and was known for the orchids that he grew.
Survivors include his wife of 44 years, Laura Dean Evans of Salado; son, Jeffrey David Evans of Salado; daughter Jennifer Anne Mays and husband Jim of Peachtree City, GA; mother, Geraldine Evans of Temple; brother, Sam Evans of Belton; sister, Sandy Scully of Temple; three granddaughters, Amanda, Katelyn and Rebecca Mays of Peachtree City, GA.
Should friends desire, memorials may be made to Scott & White Hospice 5701 Airport Road Temple, Tx 76502.
Arrangement are under the direction of Heartfield Funeral Home in Belton.

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Private John Curtis DeSilva

Fort Hood officials have released the name of a soldier after next-of-kin had been notified, who died Friday, June 5, in a motorcycle accident in Ottawa County, Oklahoma.
Private John Curtis DeSilva, 21, of Commerce, Oklahoma, an Infantryman, entered the military in May 2008. He was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 8th Cavalry Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Division since September 2008.
DeSilva, during the time of the incident, was the driver of a privately owned motorcycle. He was killed as a result of injuries sustained during the accident.
Private DeSilva was currently deployed to Iraq and home on leave.
Pvt. DeSilva’s decorations and awards include the National Defense Service Medal, and Army Service Ribbon.
The accident is under investigation.

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Spc. Christopher Milton Kurth

Fort Hood officials announced today the death of a Soldier who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Spc. Christopher Milton Kurth, 23, of Alamogordo, New Mexico, died June 4 in Kirkuk, Iraq, of wounds suffered when his vehicle was struck by an anti-tank grenade.
Kurth entered the Army in June 2005 as a Food Service Specialist. He was
assigned to the 3rd Battalion, 82nd Field Artillery, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Division since December 2005.
Specialist Kurth deployed to Iraq January 2009.
Specialist Christopher Kurth’s awards and decorations include the Purple
Heart, Army Commendation Medal, Army Achievement Medal, Army Good
Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Iraq Campaign Medal,
Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Army Service Ribbon, and Overseas Service Ribbon.

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N J “Jay” Goodman
N J “Jay” Goodman, 88, of Stamford passed away May 30, 2009. Funeral services were held June 2 at the First Baptist Church in Stamford with the Rev. James Brigham presiding. Burial followed in Highland Memorial Cemetery under the direction of Tankersley Funeral Home.
Jay was born February 16, 1921 to Bennie and Mattie Reeves Goodman in Frost, Texas. He served his country in the Army during WWII. In 1945, when Jay was discharged from the Army, he rode the bus to this area, put down roots and began his farming career. He married Imogene Putnam January 11, 1942. She preceded him in death in December 1969. On February 19, 1971 he married Frances “Susie” Holladay Leggott. Jay was a member of the First Baptist Church in Stamford, Stamford VFW and the Sons of Hermann. He served as a director on the Farmers Coop Gin Board. After retiring Jay and Susie spent 14 summers in Gunnison, CO where he enjoyed fishing as much as he did farming.
Goodman is survived by his wife, Frances of Stamford, one daughter; LaJuan Shelton and husband Garlyn of Salado; one grandson, Jay Shelton of Temple; one stepson, William Leggott of Snyder; one brother, Olan Goodman of Stamford, and numerous nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his son Larry Jay Goodman; a granddaughter, Melissa Layne Goodman; his first wife Imogene Putnam Goodman; two sisters: Willie Ruth Thompson and Louise Freeze; two brothers: Chester Goodman and A. R. Goodman, and his parents
Online condolences may be made at www.tankersleyfuneralhome.com

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Pvt. Thomas Edward Lee
Fort Hood announced the death of a Soldier who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Pvt. Thomas Edward Lee, 20, of Dalton, Georgia, died May 29 in Mosul, Iraq, of wounds suffered when an explosive device struck his vehicle.
Lee joined the military in February 2008 as an Infantryman and was assigned to the 3rd Battalion, 8th Cavalry Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Division since July 2008.
Private Lee deployed to Iraq in December 2008.
Lee’s military awards and decorations include the National Defense Service Medal, Iraq Campaign Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Army Service Ribbon and Overseas Service Ribbon.

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Spc. Caleb Allen Bezanson
Fort Hood officials have released the name of a Soldier who died May 18, 2009 from cause unknown at this time.
Spc. Caleb Allen Bezanson, 28, of Ridgecrest, California, was found unresponsive in his barracks room by fellow Soldiers. Fort Hood Emergency Services responded and Bezanson was transported to Darnall Army Medical Center, where he was pronounced dead.
Specialist Bezanson entered the military May 2003 as a Satellite Communications Systems Operator and was assigned to 3rd Brigade Special Troops Battalion, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Division since August 2008.
Bezanson’s decorations and awards include the Army Achievement Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Army Service Ribbon and Overseas Service Ribbon.
The incident is under investigation.
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-Spc. Crystal Joy Carney
Fort Hood officials have released the name of a Soldier who died May 17, 2009 from cause unknown at this time.
Spc. Crystal Joy Carney, 21, of Houston was discovered unresponsive in a house on post by another Soldier. Emergency Medical Services responded and Carney was pronounced dead at the scene of an undetermined cause.
Carney entered the military May 2007 as an Automated Logistical Specialist and was assigned to the 289th Quartermaster, 15th Special Troops Battalion, 15th Sustainment Brigade, 13th Sustainment Command since July 2008.
Specialist Carney’s decorations and awards include the Army Good Conduct Medal and Army Service Ribbon.

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Richard Phillips
Richard Phillips, 83, of Salado, and formerly of Austin, died May 23, 2009 in a Temple hospital.
Funeral services will be held at 2 P.M. May 28 at Harper-Talasek Funeral Home in Temple. Burial will be in Salado Cemetery.
Phillips was born to Joseph Walker and Bessie Grace Daughter Phillips in Ft. Worth on Sept. 25, 1925. He had been a resident of Austin for several years; moving to Salado in 2003. Prior to his retire-ment, he was a longtime employee of Austin Engineering Company.
Survivors include a son, Marvin Phillips of Austin; three brothers, Henry Phillips of Ft. Worth, and Charlie Phillips and Billy Phillips, both of Fresno, California; three sisters, Janie Williams of Ft. Worth, and Dorothy Bassett and Ollie Keith, both of Fresno, California; and several grandchildren. He was preceded in death by two sons, Jack Phillips and Dick Phillips.
Visitation will be May 27 from 6-8 p.m.. at the funeral home.

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Howard Drake Austin

Howard Drake Austin, 79 of Salado, passed away on May 24, 2009.
Visitation will be held on May 26, 2009 from 6:00PM to 8:00PM at The Gabriels Funeral Chapel, 393 North IH 35, Georgetown, Texas. A celebration of Howard’s life will be at 10 a.m. on May 27, 2009 at The Gabriels Funeral Chapel.
Howard was born on April 15, 1930 in Smithville, Tennessee to the late Albert and Patsy Austin. He is also preceded in death by his brother, Owen Austin and sister, Geneva Bissinger. Howard had a true entrepreneurial spirit, owning and operating several very successful real estate ventures over the years. Most recently H&D Enterprises in Salado, Texas. Howard served his country honorably in the United States Army during the Korean War. Howard lived in Warren, Michigan for over 35 years and continued to serve his community as a City Councilman for the City of Warren for over 18 years. Howard moved to Texas in 1985.
Austin is survived by his wife of 23 years, Dee Austin of Salado, and children, Randy Austin and wife Mary of Belmont, NC., Denise Ettle and husband Jerry of New Baltimore, MI., Lorie Austin of New Baltimore, MI., Cindy Rodrigo and husband Jay of Spartanburg, SC., Brian Austin and wife Cindy of Rochester Hills, MI., Chad Austin and wife Dawn of San Antonio, TX., and Fernando Austin of Austin, TX.; 12 grandchildren, Angela Recinella and husband Tony, Ricky Frantz, Nicholas Austin, Luke Danielewicz, Jessie Danielewicz, Bradley Austin, Brianne Turzynski and husband Brian, Jonathan Austin, Marissa Austin, Wyatt Austin, and Carson Austin; one great grandchild, Paul Turzynski ; along with many other loving family members and friends.
Those wishing to send the family private personal condolences may do so at www.gabrielsfuneral.com.

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Mary Lou (Honey) Beesley
Funeral services for Mary Lou (Honey) Beesley of Hillsboro were held May 11, at Church on the Hill in Hillsboro. Pastor Mike McReynolds officiated. Burial will be at Fairview Cemetery in Hubbard.
Beesley passed away May 7 in a Fort Worth hospital at the age of 72.
Beesley was born in Salado on June 2, 1936 to James Bunn and Ruth (Stroud) Gidley. She was reared in Salado.
On June 14, 1975 she married James Beesley.
For 15 years she worked as office manager for an insurance company.
She was a member of Church On The Hill in Hillsboro.
Preceding her in death were her parents, three brothers, and a sister.
She is survived by her husband James Beesley of Hillsboro, four daughters — Sherry Jacks and husband Jason of Bluff Dale, Cindy Lackey of Cleburne, Jennifer Beesley of Moody and Jamie Collier and husband Casey of Waco, three brothers — Tom Ed Gidley of Salado, Wayne Gidley of Mesquite and Johnny Gidley of Salado; five sisters — Velma Griffin of Brookshire, Jo Ann Moon of Ocean City, NJ, Frances Roth of Wimberly, Doris Burt of Temple and Linda Sue Gaslo of Kansas; and 11 grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.
Marshal & Marshall Funeral Directors is in charge of arrangements.

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Monroe Taylor “Shep” Shepperd
Monroe Taylor “Shep” Shepperd, 79, of Belton passed away May 9 in a local care center. Memorial services were held May 12 at Heartfield Funeral Home Chapel in Belton.
Descended from Bell County pioneers, M.T. “Shep” was born on Oct. 28, 1929 to Guy Monroe Shepperd and Lila Mae Allanmon Shepperd. Shep grew up in the ranch country of Salado. He graduated from Salado High School in 1946, where he was an all-district football player. He entered Texas A&M College as a 16 year old freshman and graduated in 1950 with a degree in Animal Husbandry and Management.
On April 20, 1951 he married his life-long love and companion, Joan Darden in Belton. The couple moved to Buda, Texas where he was manager to the Negley Ranch. Soon after duty called and Shep entered the Army and was stationed in Germany for two years. Upon his discharge he, Joan and Joe made their home in Bell County Shep’s career as civil servant working at Killeen Base began at this time but shortly thereafter, he accepted a position at Fort Hood where he worked for 20 years as a budget analyst, completing a 35 year career. He volunteer thousands of hours and was a dedicated servant of his community.
He will be lovingly remembered by his wife of 58 years, Joan Darden Shepperd, three sons; Joe T. Shepperd; David C. Shepperd, John M. Shepperd; sister, Mayelee Carlisle and brother Guy Shepperd.
Memorial donations may be made to: Belton Educational Enrichment Foundation 400 N. Wall St. Belton, Texas 76513 or to the Belton FFA-4-H Booster Club Scholarship Fund P.O. Box 1912 Belton, Texas 76513.
Funeral arrangements by Heartfield Funeral Home.

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Spc. Jake Robert Velloza
Fort Hood officials have released the name of a Soldier who died supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.
He died from wounds sustained after being shot by enemy forces in Mosul, Iraq on May 2.
Spc. Jake Robert Velloza, 22, of Inverness, California, a Fire Support Specialist, entered the military in February 2006. He was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 12th Cavalry Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Division since July 2006.
Velloza deployed to Iraq December 2008.
Specialist Velloza’s awards and decorations include the Army Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Army Service Ribbon, and Overseas Service Ribbon.
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Private First Class Brittany Nicole Morris
Fort Hood officials have released the name of a 13th Sustainment Command Soldier who died April 29 at Scott & White hospital,
Temple, from medical complications.
Private First Class Brittany Nicole Morris, 20, of Auburn, Alabama, wasbrought to Darnall Army Medical Center on April 28 after complaining ofheadaches. Upon evaluation she was transported to Scott and White Hospital in Temple for treatment. Morris died April 29.
Private First Class Morris joined the military in March 2008 as a Unit Supply Specialist and was assigned to the 15th Sustainment Brigade, 13th Sustainment Command since August 2008.
Pfc. Morris’ military awards and decorations include the National
Defense Service Medal and Army Service Ribbon.

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Spc.Shawn Dante Sykes
Spc. Shawn Dante Sykes, 28, of Portsmouth, Virginia, died May 7, at Landstuhl Regional Medical Center in Landstuhl, Germany of wounds suffered from an accident that occurred May 5 at Combat Outpost Crazy Horse, Iraq.
Sykes joined the military in August 2001 as a Food Services Specialist and was assigned to the 215th Brigade Support Battalion, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Division since April 2007.
Spc. Sykes deployed to Iraq December 2008. Specialist Sykes’ decorations and awards include the Navy Commendation Medal, Army Good Conduct Medal, Marine Corps Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Army Service Ribbon, Overseas Service Ribbon, and Navy Sea Service Deployment Ribbon.

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Michele Jordan Woods
Michele Jordan Woods, wife of Dr. Bryan Woods, and a Salado resident since 2003, died on April 25, 2009 after a long illness. Michele was born in Sept. 1936 in the small village of Dornestetten in the Black Forest of Germany. She lived in Germany until age 19, when she came to the United States on a one-year college scholarship. She decided to complete her education in the U.S., and moved to San Antonio, Texas in 1958, where she first attended St. Mary’s night school (in what later became La Mansion del Rio), and then Our Lady of the Lake College. While in San Antonio she met her future husband, Bryan, who was in Air Force OCS at Lackland AFB. She stayed in San Antonio to finish college while he was reassigned to Clovis, New Mexico and then Washington, D.C. They reconnected after her graduation, and married in Nov. 1961. At that time they were both working in Washington, and he was also attending night school to take pre-med courses. Their first child, Michele, was born in Oct. 1962, and Bryan started medical school in Charlottesville, Virginia in Sept. 1963.
During medical school two more daughters, Monika and Suzanne, were born. In 1967 the family moved to Brookline, Massachusetts for Bryan’s internship and residency training. They relocated to Wellesley, Massachusetts a year later, and lived there until 1993. Michele became a naturalized citizen in 1974, and a year later was the first immigrant ever elected to the town school board, which she eventually chaired. While in Massachusetts she and Bryan had two more children, sons Michael and Jordan.
In 1993 Bryan accepted a position as VA Neurologist in Temple and Professor of Medicine (and later also of Psychiatry) at Texas A&M. During the ensuing years Michele continued with her lifelong interest in antiques and collectibles, as well as remaining a close observer of politics from the local to the international level. In 2003, after Bryan retired from clinical work at the VA, they moved to Salado for more space, a beautiful view, and a home with no stairs.
In 2006 she was diagnosed with ovarian cancer. She responded well to active treatment for two years, but then found she couldn’t tolerate any more chemotherapy.
A memorial service, attended by her husband and children and many local friends, was held for her at the VA chapel in Temple on May 11, and her ashes were interred at Bellwood Cemetery on May 12.

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Douglas Marsh
A private service for Douglas Marsh, 69, of Salado will be held May, 17. Marsh died May 8, 2009 in a local hospital.
Marsh was born to John S. Marsh and Flavia Seith in Cleveland, Ohio on December 2, 1939.
He attended Staunton Military Academy in Staunton, VA and then went to Lybia with his father to explore for oil for the Lybian government.
He served his country in two service branches, the Army and subsequently the Navy. He had two tours of duty with the Navy in Viet Nam on board the USS Boston. An electronics specialist he received two Bronze Stars, National Defense Service Medal, Expert Pistol Shot Medal and Marksman award. After serving over 7 years, he left the Navy to return to Vermont and began his career in law enforcement.
He was a county sheriff, volunteer firefighter and EMT before retiring.
He is survived by his wife of 33 years, Paula Marsh and two daughters, Dawn Marie and Lori Anne of Denver, CO.
He was preceded in death by his parents.
He loved bluegrass music and was known for his barbecue recipes.
Burial will be with military honors at a later date in Vermont Veterans Memorial Cemetery, Randolph Center, VT.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the American Heart Association. Broecker Funeral Home of Salado is in charge of arrangements.

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Spc. Ryan Charles King
Fort Hood officials have released the name of a Soldier who died supporting Operation Enduring Freedom near the village of Nishagam, in Konar Province, Afghanistan on May 1.
Spc. Ryan Charles King, 22, of Dallas, Georgia, a Common Ground Station Operator, entered the military in November 2005. He was assigned to the Special Troops Battalion, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 1st Infantry Division since July 2007.
The Soldier died from wounds suffered when insurgents attacked his unit using direct fire.
Spc. King deployed to Afghanistan June 2008.
Specialist King’s awards and decorations include the Army Commendation Medal, Army Achievement Medal, Army Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Army Commendation Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Army Service Ribbon, Overseas Service Ribbon, and NATO Medal.

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Spc. Jeremiah Paul McCleery
Fort Hood officials have released the name of a Soldier who died supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.
He died from wounds sustained after being shot by enemy forces in Mosul, Iraq on May 2.
Spc. Jeremiah Paul McCleery, 24, of Portola, California, a Fire Support Specialist, entered the military in June 2007. He was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 12th Cavalry Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Division since December 2007.
McCleery deployed to Iraq December 2008.
Specialist McCleery’s awards and decorations include the National Defense Service Medal, Iraq Campaign Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, and Army Service Ribbon.

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Pvt. James Baxter McCoy
Fort Hood officials have released the name of a 1st Cavalry Division Soldier who died April 21 in Minnetonka, Minnesota from noncombat injuries.
Pvt. James Baxter McCoy, 21, of Haynesville, Louisiana joined the military in May 2008 as an Armor Crewman and was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 8th Cavalry Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Division since October 2008.
McCoy was found unresponsive by a relative. Emergency Medical Service was called to the residence where Private McCoy was pronounced deceased at the scene. Cause of death is still pending.
Private McCoy deployed to Iraq January 2009.
Private McCoy’s military awards and decorations include the National Defense Service Medal and Army Service Ribbon.

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Sgt. James Dewel Pirtle
Fort Hood officials have released the name of a Soldier who died supporting Operation Enduring Freedom near the village of Nishagam, in Konar Province, Afghanistan on May 1.
Sgt. James Dewel Pirtle, 21, of Colorado Springs, Colorado, a Signals Intelligence Analyst, entered the military in July 2006. He was assigned to the Special Troops Battalion, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 1st Infantry Division since June 2007.
The Soldier died from wounds suffered when insurgents attacked his unit using direct fire.
Pirtle deployed to Afghanistan June 2008.
Sergeant Pirtle’s awards and decorations include the Bronze Star Medal, Army Achievement Medal, Army Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Army Commendation Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Army Service Ribbon, Overseas Service Ribbon, and NATO Medal.

Leroy Otis Webster

Fort Hood announced the death of a Soldier who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Sgt. Leroy Otis Webster, 28, of Sioux Falls, South Dakota, died April 25, near Kirkuk, Iraq, after being shot while on a dismounted patrol.
Webster joined the military in November 2003 as a Cannon Crewmember and was assigned to the 3rd Battalion, 82nd Field Artillery Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Division since March 2006.
He deployed January 2009. Sergeant Webster’s decorations and awards include the Army Commendation Medal, Army Achievement Medal, Meritorious Unit Citation, Army Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Army Commendation Medal, Iraq Campaign Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Armed Forces Reserve Medal, Noncommissioned Officer Professional Development Ribbon, Army Service Ribbon, and Overseas Service Ribbon.

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Michael Lawrence Lynch

Michael Lawrence Lynch, 64, passed away April 24, 2009 in Pasadena, Texas.
He was born March 30, 1945 in Long Beach, California to Justin and Josephine Lynch.
He was preceded in death by his father, Justin Joseph Lynch.
He is survived by his wife Shirley Lynch, who owned and operated Salado Chiropractic Clinic for many years in Salado.
He is also survived by his mother, Josephine Iris Lynch, two sisters, Sharon Booth, and Margaret Robey and husband Glen, two brothers, Paul Lynch and wife Trudy, and John Lynch and wife Peggy, two daughters, Dawn Bray and husband Roy, and Gretchen Thomas and husband James, five grandchildren and one great-grandchild as well as seven nieces and nephews.
A Mass of Christian burial will be held April 30 at 11 a.m. at St. Hyacinth Catholic Church, 2921 Center St. Deer Park. Interment will follow in Grand View Memorial Park.

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Vicky Jo Sartor

Vicky Jo Sartor; of Salado, died at the age of 55 on April 25, 2009 at a Temple hospital. She was born on January 5, 1954.
She dedicated her last 20 years of life to the Salado United Methodist Church serving as Program Director and Minister of Children. She was a devout Christian and spiritual counselor; lending her energy in every endeavor. She served her community and family through her love of animals and children.
Sartor served on the Advisory Board of the Peaceable Kingdom Retreat for Children and assisted with the first fundraisers for the organization. She also served Salado ISD as an officer of the Salado Parents and Teachers. She was involved in many community events, ranging from parades to history awareness and politics to artistic endeavors of every color.
While she shared her giving heart with this community, her greatest love was for family. Vicky was the wife of H.K. Sartor and the mother of H.R. Sartor.
After graduating from high school in Bartlett, Texas and college; Vicky studied at area universities. She married H.K. Sartor on June 2, 1978. Her son, Howard Robert (HR), was born on Christmas Day, 1979.
She is survived by her husband, Howard Kent Sartor; her son, Howard Robert Sartor; her parents, Robert and Evelyn Powitzky; her sister, Janie David; and her aunt, Dorothy Jean Bartlett.
A memorial service will be held at 5 p.m. May 1 at the Salado United Methodist Church. A reception will follow.
In lieu of flowers, the family has asked that a donation be made in honor of children and animals that will be managed and distributed by the Salado United Methodist Church, P.O. Box 771, Salado, Texas 76571.
A future dedication to Vicky Jo Sartor will be made at Peaceable Kingdom Retreat for Children. “ The Laughing Place” will be named in her honor.
Funeral arrangements are being handled by Dossman Funeral Home of Belton.

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Gil Wanzor

A Life Celebration for Gil Wanzor, 78, of Salado will be Saturday, April 25 from 5:00PM at Broecker Funeral Home, Salado.

Wanzor died April 21, 2009 at his home in Salado.

Gil was born to Aubrey Wanzor and Caroline LoPresti in Minneola, N.Y. on March 18, 1931.

He graduated from Great Neck High School, Great Neck N. Y. in 1948 and attended Kent State University until 1951 when he entered the Navy.

Gil served on the aircraft carrier USS Lake Champlain during the Korean War as a Lt. JG with the F2H2 Banshees Attach Squadron 106. He received the Korean Service Medal, United Nations Medal, Navy Occupation (European CLASP), Korean PUC and National Defense Service medals.

He returned to Kent State University in 1955 and graduated in 1957 with degrees in fine arts, commercial art and art education. After graduation, he began a 26 year career as an art educator at all levels, 1st grade thru adults in Kent, Ohio.
He was a 50 year member of the ATO Fraternity at Kent State University.

Due to his love for the water, Gil and his wife Pat, of 52 years, sailed various sailboats on the Great Lakes and upon retiring in 1988 fulfilled their dream of cruising aboard their 38’ Hood sailboat, “The Blue Parrot”, in the Gulf, Caribbean, Intercoastal and Chesapeake Bay.

Moving to Salado in 1998 Gil became deeply involved in the Arts. He was a member of the board of directors of SaladoVillage Artists, board member of the Public Arts League, winning numerous awards. He was also a member of the Salado Lions Club.

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Louise B. Allen
Funeral services for Louise B. Allen, 89, of Belton were held April 18 at Heartfield Funeral Home in Belton. Interment followed at North Belton Cemetery.
Louise died April 15 in a Belton care center.
Louise was born Oct. 26, 1919 in Bell County to B.I. and Katie (Strickland) Beasley. She married Lloyd Allen on May 7, 1947 in Bertram. He preceded her in death on Oct. 30, 2007. Louise was the purchasing contracting officer at Ft. Hood for 33 years, retiring in 1985. She has been a member of the Presbyterian Church in Belton for more than 35 years.
Survivors include one son, David Allen of Elgin; two daughters, Mary Allen of Belton, Barbara Lara of Albuquerque, New Mexico; thirteen grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren.
She is preceded in death by her husband, Lloyd Allen; one grandson; three brothers; four sisters.
Heartfield Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

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Pfc. Richard Allen Dewater

Fort Hood officials have announced the death of a Soldier who was supporting Operation Enduring Freedom.
Pfc. Richard Allen Dewater, 21, of Topeka, Kan., died April 15, of wounds sustained from an improvised explosive device, while on a dismounted patrol near Korengal Valley, Afghanistan.
Dewater entered the military in February 2008. He was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 26th Infantry Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 1st Infantry Division since June 2008. He deployed to Afghanistan July 2008.
Private First Class Dewater’s awards and decorations include the National Defense Service Medal, Army Commendation Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Army Service Ribbon, Overseas Service Ribbon, and NATO Medal.

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Floyd “Bud” Fulgham
Visitation for Floyd “Bud” Fulgham, 82, of Salado were held April 16 at Broecker Funeral Home in Salado.
Fulgham died April 14 at his residence in Salado.
Bud was born April 14, 1927 in Houston to Dempsey Adson Fulgham and Kathleen Stafford.
After his tour of duty in the Navy during WW II, Bud spent most of his professional life in the construction business as superintendent of construction for Hooker Construction Company in Waco. He then spent several years in the house moving business. He retired in 1979.
Bud was a bachelor all his life but was “father” to numerous Salado children, helping them with their studies and rewarding their efforts with candy.
Bud is preceded in death by his father, mother, brother Ted Fulgham of Antlers, OK.
Survivors include two brothers, Robert and wife Joyce of Salado, Charles and wife Connie of Pflugerville.
In addition, he had four nephews and two nieces.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his honor to Salado Independent School System, 550 Thomas Arnold Rd., Salado, TX 76571.
Broecker Funeral Home of Salado is in charge of arrangements.

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Lt. Col. Robert B. McGhee (Ret)

Robert B. McGhee, of Salado, died April 20, 2009 at his home. He was born on November 23, 1921 in Muskegon, Michigan to Robert L. and Wenonah (Butterworth) McGhee. Bob was well known in the community for his selfless efforts in the Salado Lions Club. He won the Tom P. Kirkham, Jr. Leadership Award in 1997 and Lion of the Year award 1991-1992. Bob had several careers in his lifetime including the U. S. Army, aircraft safety consultant and real estate. He loved boating and fishing and was a licensed U. S. Coast Guard Captain.
He is survived by his wife of 41 years, Theresa, of Salado and children, Mrs. Robert (Judy) Thompson, of San Antonio; John “Mac” McGhee of Pipe Creek, TX; Mrs. Thirl (Sharon) Johnson, of Dallas; and Dana Allen, of The Grove; 10 grandchildren and 11 great grandchildren, and 3 nephews and one niece. His sister, Helen, resides in Kenai, Alaska. He was preceded in death by his first wife, Dee and two grandchildren. Bob and Theresa are members of the First United Methodist Church in Salado.
Col. McGhee served in the U. S. Army for 28 years including combat action in World War II and Korea. He was awarded the Combat Infantryman’s Badge, the Silver Star and the Bronze Star for valor with one oak leaf cluster. He was awarded the Purple Heart with one oak leaf cluster, The Army Commendation Medal, European and Korean Presidential Commendation Medals, as well as various U.S. and Korean Service Medals. He enlisted as a Private in Troop B, 106 Cavalry Regiment (Horse Mounted), Michigan National Guard, 2 March 1938. He retired as Chief of Operations and Training, Aviation Division, Fourth U.S. Army, 31 March 1966.
His service during WWII involved the invasion of North Africa, airborne invasion of Holland as a Glider Trooper, the Battle of The Bulge in the Ardennes Forest and an airborne invasion of Germany at the Rhine River. He was in Korea for the breakout of the Pusan Perimeter in mid 1950. He served in postwar Panama, Germany, and throughout the USA.
He was a Master parachute jumper and Senior Army Aviator pilot of helicopters and fixed wing aircraft. He was the pilot who flew into the jungles of Ecuador to recover the bodies of five martyred Missionaries working among cannibal Aucas Indians. These exploits were recorded in the book “Through Gates of Splendor” and the movie, “The Tip of the Spear”. He had the honor of flying Able, Baker and Charlie (the first monkeys in space) from Ft. Knox, KY to Florida. He was a member of the Order of Daedalians having logged 13200 hours flight time.
A memorial service will be 1 p.m. April 23, at Salado United Methodist Church, 650 Royal Street. In lieu of flowers, the family has requested donations to the Lions Crippled Children’s Hospital in Kerrville, TX.

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Clara Chrisco Gaines
Services for Clara Chrisco Gaines, of Ballinger will be held April 18 at the Carnegie Library in Ballinger, TX.
Gaines died Sunday, April 12, 2009, at her granddaughter’s residence Chaniel Manning in Salado.
She was born in Arkansas, to S. C. Chrisco and Bertha Boswell. She moved soon afterward to Ballinger, Texas where she called home
She was the restaurant manager at many military bases in Texas for several years.
She is preceded in death by five husbands, R. P. Leggett, Sr., J.C. Williams, Willey Gaines and Ed Edwards; 2 sons, R. P. Leggett, Jr. and Chris Williams and a grandson, Shelby “Shorty” Leggett; two sisters Sis Merrifield and Tommie Jean Parks.
Survivors include a brother, Jack Chrisco, Ballinger, TX.; a daughter Patsy Wood of Ballinger, TX.; and a son Shelby Leggett of Ft Madison, IA. ; and 2 stepsons Bobby and Billy Edwards of Pecos, TX.
In addition, she had eight grandchildren, 16 great grandchildren and one great great grandchild.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in her honor to The Carnegie Library 204 N. 8th Street Ballinger, TX 76821.
Broecker Funeral Home of Salado is in charge of arrangements.

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Truman S. Head
Memorial services for Truman S. Head, 93, of Temple will be held at April 14, 2009 at Scanio Harper Funeral Home with Father Ranjan Cletus and Dick Archer officiating. Burial will be private.
Truman S. Head died April 11, 2009 in a Belton Nursing Home.
Head was born in Bluff Dale, June 2, 1915, to James A. Head and Lucy Norman Head. He grew up in Ranger and graduated from Granbury High School in 1933 and attended Ranger Jr. College. He was employed by the Texas Old Age Assistance Commission and later transferred to the Texas State Unemployment Commission. He married Elizabeth Ladwig of Killeen in 1937. She preceded him in death. He then married Tena Scanio October 9, 1949. He served in the Army Air Corps and Infantry during World War II. After working with American Desk and Manufacturing Company, he became a life insurance salesman, having worked for Southland Life, American General and Executive Life Insurance Companies. He was also a founding member of the “SO WHAT CLUB” (Seekers of wisdom, humor and truth).
Head was a member of the Lions Club, a Past Post Commander for the American Legion and a life long active member of the Heart of Texas Life Underwriters Association, the National Quality Award and frequent member of the Million Dollar Round Table. He was one of the founding members and the first president of the Heart of Texas Life Underwriters Association in 1953. He was a member of St. Mary Catholic Church and was a former Knights of Columbus 4th degree member.
Head was preceded in death by two brothers Manley Head and Princeton Head; and three sisters Nedra Barnett, Lorraine Brown and Lois Bean.
Survivors include his wife Tena Head of Temple; three sons Joe Head and his wife Kay of Austin, Jerry Head and his wife Stephanie of Miramar, Florida and James Head and his wife Marianne of Humble; two daughters Janet Bandas and her husband Rick of Morgan’s Point and Jenna Akridge and her husband Wayne of Round Rock; grandchildren Kathleen Lund & husband Jensey, C.J. Schimmels and husband Kirby, J.J. Head, Jeffrey Head, John Head, Beth Gist and husband Aaron, Bonnie Sue Kirby, Edmund Bandas, Christopher Bandas, Coleman Akridge and wife Meghan and Alice Akridge; great grandchildren Kirby Schimmels, Madeline Schimmels, Shylo Schimmels, Jasmine Katrina Head, Kate Gist, Emily Gist, Shane Kirby, Jacob Bandas, Frannie Bandas, Meg Bandas, and Drew Bandas.
Memorials may be made to Vista Care Hospice 2626 S. 37th Temple, Texas 76504.

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William Joseph Jackson

Services for William Joseph Jackson, 85, of Salado will be 10 a.m., April 10 at the Presbyterian Church of Salado with Rev. Carl Thompson officiating.
Mr. Jackson died Sunday, April 5, 2009 at his home.
Bill was born in Canadian, TX to Robert Coleman Jackson and Grace Reid. After attending University of Texas Law School, Austin, married Lilree Ogburn and practiced law for over 50 years.
In 1995 he retired and settled in Salado where he was a charter member and elder of the Presbyterian Church of Salado.
Survivors include his wife of 63 years, a brother, Bob Jackson of Dallas, 3 daughters, Janice Kessee and husband Charles of Canadian, daughter Diane Jackson of Temple and daughter Eileen Kuhn and husband John of Georgetown. He has seven grandchildren and 4 great-grandchildren.
Memorials can be made to Presbyterian Church of Salado, Heifer International, 1 World Avenue, Little Rock, AR. 72202, (800) 422-0474 or the charity of your choice. Broecker Funeral Home of Salado is in charge of arrangements.

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Linda Gail Barker
A memorial service for Linda Gail Barker, 61, of Jarrell was held at March 28 at Church on the Rock located at 925 Golden Oak Dr. Georgetown.
Rev. Kathryne Snodgrass and Pastor Dennis Hattabaugh officiated. A private burial at the Berry Creek Cemetery preceded the service.
Surrounded by her family, Barker passed away on March 24, 2009. She was born Dec. 29, 1947 in Georgetown to Walter Joe and Pauline Whitfield Barker. She graduated from Georgetown High School in 1966. Barker was a lifetime resident of Georgetown; employed by Southwestern University before moving into the medical insurance field working at Georgetown Hospital and clinics in Austin. She attended and was a member at Church on the Rock.
Barker is survived by her parents Joe and Polly Barker, four sisters; Sue VanNoy and husband Anthony of Jarrell, Kathryne Snodgrass and husband David of Virginia, Mary Jo Dubey and husband Larry of New Hampshire, Beth Montgomery and husband Don of Bryan, 16 nieces and nephews, eight great nieces and nephews, Rolando Mendez, and extended family in El Salvador.
Flowers or a memorial gift supporting missions in El Salvador may be sent to The Church on the Rock of Georgetown. Arrangements were handled by Broecker Funeral home of Salado.

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Colonel (USAF Ret.) Harry LeRoy Grimm
Memorial services for Colonel (USAF Ret.) Harry LeRoy Grimm, 84, were held April 7 at the historical Methodist Church in Salado with Rev. Charles Berry officiated. A private burial will be held at a later date.
Colonel Grimm was born on June 29, 1924 in Canton,, Ohio to Marion and Donna (Ashbaugh) Grimm. He married high school sweetheart Mildred Reynolds on May 17, 1943. They had two children together. Hank Grimm and Gayla Grimm-Fogle.
Colonel Grimm proudly served his country for 32 years as a member of the United States Air Force. He served during World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War. He was assinged to the 509th Atomic Bomb Group during WWII, and also worked on the Titan and Titan II long range defense missles.
He received his commission at Yale University. He received a Bachelors of Science degree from Air Force Institute of Technology at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base in 1955. He earned his Masters degree in electronic engineering from Stanford University in 1960 and later in his career attended the Air Ward College in Montgomery, Alabama.
Colonel Grimm was a member of the Lions Club in Salado, the Good Sam’s Club, and the Avion Travel Club. A devoted husband and father, he enjoyed traveling the country to visit his family and dear friends. He was known for looking after everyone’s well being and always lending a hand wherever it was needed.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Marion and Donna Grimm, and younger brother, Ted Grimm. Survivors include his wife Mildred Grimm of Salado; son Hank Grimm and wife Lucy of Pflugerville; daughter Gayla Grimm-Fogle and husband Michael of Los Alamos, New Mexico; sister Sandra Charleston of Canton, Ohio; and two granddaughters.

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Lt. Col Emmitt Weems Rogers

Fort Hood officials have released the name of a Warrior Transition Brigade Soldier who died April 26 at Darnall Army Medical Center from medical complications.
Lt. Col. Emmitt Weems Rogers, 47, of Texas, was admitted to Darnall Army Medical Center Intensive Care Unit on April 21 and on April 26 he passed away.
Lt. Col. Rogers joined the military in September 1988 as an Ordnance Officer and was assigned to the Warrior Transition Brigade since December 2007.
Rogers deployed to Iraq 03-04.
Lt. Col. Rogers’ military awards and decorations include the Bronze Star Medal, Meritorious Service Medal, Army Commendation Medal, Army Achievement Medal, Meritorious Unit Commendation, Army Superior Unit award, Army Reserve Components Achievement Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, Southwest Asia Service Medal, Iraq Campaign Medal, Global War On Terrorism Expeditionary Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Armed Forces Service Medal, Army Service Ribbon, Overseas Service Ribbon, NATO Medal, and Kuwait Liberation of Kuwait Medal.

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Private First Class Jarvis Galloway
Fort Hood officials have released the name of a Soldier who died, March 21, from a gunshot wound.
Private First Class Jarvis Galloway, 20, of Saint Charles, Missouri, was shot by a Killeen Police Officer while attempting to flee the scene of an incident. Galloway was involved in an altercation that turned physical at the Starlight Dance Station in Killeen. Pfc. Galloway was transported to Carl R. Darnall Army Medical Center where he was pronounced deceased by an emergency room doctor.
Galloway entered the military September 2007 as a Shower/Laundry and Clothing Repair Specialist and was assigned to the 157th Quartermaster Company, 15th Sustainment Brigade, 13th Sustainment Command since
February 2008.
Pfc. Galloway’s decorations and awards include the National Defense Service Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal and Army Service Medal.

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James Cecil Havens
James Cecil Havens, 89, of Salado passed away March 27, 2009 in a local hospital. Funeral services were held March 30 at Heartfield Funeral Home Chapel. Rev. James Haney officiated. Internment followed in Pleasant Hill Cemetery with Military Honors.
Havens was born on August 31, 1919 in Bell County to the late Jeff and Ada Havens. He was the eighth child of eleven children. There were five boys and six girls. He married Bernice Hamrick on August 1, 1958 and they were married for 32 years.
Cecil was a veteran of World Ward II serving in the Pacific. After returning home, he bought a stock farm which he operated for many years while working for Griggs Equipment Company and Bell County Road and Bridge Department before retiring.
He is survived by numerous nieces and nephews.
His wife, four brothers, Truman, Pat, Dale and Harrell Haves; and six sisters, Lila Boyd, Myrtle Jones, Bertha Jones, Willie Mae Phillips, Violet Daniels and Jewel Marie-preceded him in death.
Visitation was held at Heartfield Funeral Home in Belton.
Memorials may be made to Scott & White Hospice. Arrangements were under the direction of Heartfield Funeral Home.

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Pvt. Samuel Lee Moody
Fort Hood officials have released the name of a Soldier who was pronounced dead, March 21, from cause unknown at this time.
Pvt. Samuel Lee Moody, 29, of Orange, Texas was found unresponsive in his barracks room. Emergency Medical Personnel received negative response from an electrocardiogram, and the Soldier was pronounced deceased.
Private Moody entered the military October 2008 as a Cavalry Scout. He was assigned to the 6th Squadron, 9th Cavalry Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Division since February 2009.
Moody’s decorations and awards include the National Defense Service Medal and the Army Service Ribbon.

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Chief Warrant Officer Mark Jeffcoat
Post officials have released the name of a Soldier who died March 17 2009 in Killeen, Texas from an apparent gunshot wound. Chief Warrant Officer Mark Jeffcoat, 33, of Swansea, S.C. was found at his residence in Killeen. Emergency medical technicians responded to the incident. Chief Jeffcoat was later pronounced dead at the scene.
The warrant officer entered the military in September, 1993 and was assigned to Charlie Company, 2nd Battalion, Warrior Transition Brigade at Fort Hood since June, 2007.
Chief Jeffcoat’s awards and decorations include the Army Commendation Medal, Army Achievement Medal, Army Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Armed Forces Service Medal, Army Service Ribbon, NATO Medal, and the Air Assault Badge.

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Lois Wilma Smith

Funeral services for Lois Wilma Smith, 91, of Temple were held March 20, at Heartfield funeral Home in Belton. Rev. Billy Kolmm officiated. Interment followed at Bellwood Memorial Park.
Lois died March 17, 2009 in a Belton care clinic.
Lois Wilma was born January 26, 1918 in Bell County to George and Eva Kate (Wiseman) Wilson. She graduated from Belton High School in 1936. Lois Wilma married Wallace Percy Smith on August 19, 1939 in Belton. He preceded her in death on July 10, 1969. She worked at a B&M Drug Store for 14 years and at Dyers Department Store. Lois Wilma has been a member of Heights Baptist Church since the 1950’s.
Survivors include on daughter, Barbara Bigham of Dallas; two grandchildren; two great-grandchildren.
She is preceded in death by her husband, Wallace Percy Smith, one brother, George Wilson, Jr; four sisters, Alleen Wilson, Myrtle Vinson, Jessie Lee Fuller, Doris Parker.
Visitation was held at the funeral home.
The family requests memorials be made to Heights Baptist Church 1220 S. 49th St. Temple, Tx 76504.
Heartfield Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

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Sarah Jane Smith
Services for Sarah Jane Smith, 74, of Salado were held March 16 at Salado United Methodist Church, with Rev. Travis Franklin officiating.
Sarah Jane Smith died Thursday, March 12, 2009 at a local hospital. She was born in Princeton, WV to Horace Lewis Mandeville, Sr and Dorothy Lee Vance.
She graduated from Washington Irving High School in Clarksburg, WV and from Marshall University in Huntington. She obtained her Masters Degree from Oklahoma University. She had additional studies at William and Mary University and VA Polytechnic Institute.
She married George E. Smith at the Navy Chapel in Yorktown, VA. on January 7, 1966. She enjoyed traveling, teaching and participating with her “Stranger in the Night”. He preceded her to heaven in 1998.
She was a alumni of Alpha Chi Omega Sorority, Mill Creek Ladies Golf Association, Salado Chamber of Commerce Ladies Auxiliary, Retired Officers Wives’ Club, Texas Service Women’s Golf Association, and Who’s Who-Instructors of Distributive Education (Virginia), Rainbow/Eastern Star, and Red Hat Society.
Survivors include a brother, Horace L. Mandeville, Jr., Perry, Oklahoma; daughter, Robin K. Smith Roesler, San Antonio, sons Mark Alan Smith, Lewisville, TX, and Bruce Alexander Smith, Frisco, TX, and 6 grandchildren.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Red Dress Society, American Heart Association, Heart of Texas Region, 6801 Sanger, #102, Waco, Tx. 76710 or to the charity of your choice.
Broecker Funeral Home of Salado is in charge of arrangements.

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PFC Jason Paul Gambles
Fort Hood officials have released the name of a Soldier who died Saturday, March 14, 2009 from cause unknown at this time.
Private First Class Jason Paul Gambles, 25, of Nebraska was found dead in his barracks room by a fellow Soldier.
Pfc. Gambles entered the military August 2007 as an Infantryman, and was assigned to 2nd Battalion, 5th Cavalry Regiment, 1st Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Division since March 2008.

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Walter C. Lamar Jr
Graveside services with Full Military Honors for Walter C. Lamar Jr., 83, of Holland were held March 9 at the Central Texas State Veteran Cemetery. Bro. Bill Adams officiated. Visitation was held at Dossman Funeral Home.
Walter died Wednesday March 4, 2009 in a Temple hospital.
Walter was born Feb. 12, 1926, in Temple, Texas the Son of Walter and Fannie Dupree Lamar. He was a truck driver and a mechanic. He retired from the United States Army after 20 years of service in 1972. He is preceded in death by his parents and one son Richard Lamar.
Survivors include sons: Robert Lamar; Raymond Lamar; Ralph Lamar; Randy Lamar, one daughter: Helga Singleton. Seven grandchildren and 6 great grandchildren.
Dossman Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.

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Sgt. Jeffrey Alexander Reed
Fort Hood announced the death of a Soldier who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Sgt. Jeffrey Alexander Reed, 23, of Chesterfield, Virginia, died March 2 2009 in Balad, Iraq, of wounds suffered when his vehicle was struck by a grenade in Taji, Iraq.
Reed joined the military in August 2004 as a Military Police Officer and was assigned to the 411th Military Police Company, 720th Military Police Battalion, 89th Military Police Brigade since January 2005.
He deployed to Iraq in January 2008.
Sergeant Reed’s decorations and awards include the Army Commendation Medal, Army Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Iraq Campaign Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Army Service Ribbon, and Overseas Service Ribbon.

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Pfc. Jessica Yvette Sarandrea
Fort Hood announced the death of a Soldier who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Pfc. Jessica Yvette Sarandrea, 22, 2009 of Miami, Florida, died March 3 in Mosul, Iraq, of wounds suffered when enemy forces attacked her forward operating base with mortar fire.
Sarandrea joined the military in August 2005 as a Unit Supply Specialist and was assigned to the 3rd Brigade Special Troops Battalion, 3rd Heavy Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Division since March 2008.
She deployed to Iraq in December 2008.
Private First Class Sarandrea’s decorations and awards include the Army Commendation Medal, Army Good Conduct Medal, Iraq Campaign Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Army Service Ribbon, and Overseas
Service Ribbon.

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Lt. Col. Jeffrey Roberts White
Fort Hood officials have released the name of a Soldier who died Sunday, March 1, 2009.
Lt. Col. Jeffrey Roberts White, 46, of Tennessee, was attending church when he collapsed. Emergency Services were called and life saving procedures met with negative results. Judge Potvin pronounced White deceased.
White entered the military May, 1985 and was assigned to the 4th Special Troops Battalion, 4th Infantry Division since October 2007.
Lt. Col. White’s decorations and awards include the Bronze Star Medal, Defense Meritorious Service Medal, Meritorious Service Medal, Army Commendation Medal, Army Achievement Medal, Joint Meritorious Unit Award, National Defense Service Medal with Bronze Service Star, Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, Iraq Campaign Medal, Global War on Terrorism
Service Medal, Korean Defense Service Medal, Armed Forces Service Medal, Army Service Ribbon, Overseas Service Ribbon, United Nations Medal, NATO Medal, Combat Action Badge, Excellence in Competition Badge Pistol, Excellence in Competition Rifleman Badge, Master Parachutist Badge, and
Ranger Tab.

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LaVora Ann Stewart

Memorial services for LaVora Ann Stewart, 77 of Bullard and formerly of Salado, will be held March 6, 2009 at 3:30 p.m. at Blue Bonnett Hills Cemetery in Bullard with Rev. Jo Ponder officiating.
Arrangements are under direction of Stewart Family Funeral Home
Stewart passed away, Wednesday, February 25, 2009 at Hospice of East Texas in Tyler, Texas.
She was born September 19, 1931 in Jefferson, Texas, to Telena Boney Pierce and Jimmy Pierce.
She was a graduate of Grad Heights High School in Houston and went on to graduate from the University of Houston. Mrs. Stewart loved art and was an accomplished artist. She enjoyed golf while she was able and was an avid Mah-Jong player. Mrs. Stewart never met a stranger.
Stewart was preceded in death by her parents and step father Gene Heft.
She is survived by her loving family, including her husband of 56 years, Bill Stewart; her daughter Debra Kay Redden and husband Dennis of Gatesville, Texas and son William E. “Wes” Stewart and wife Lucy of North Richland Hills, Texas; and grandchildren Jay and Kevin and cousin Gene Pettit.
Memorials in honor of LaVora Stewart may be made to the Hospice of East Texas Foundation, 4111 University Blvd., Tyler, Texas 75701.
For more information or to express condolences, visit www.stewartfamilyfuneral.com.

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James W. Walls

James R. Walls, age 98, passed away on February 11, 2009 at a local hospital after a short illness. He was born in Ludlow, Massachusetts on December 2, 1910. He married Williamina Ferrier in 1935, and they settled in Texas, where they lived in LaMarque, Texas City and Dallas.
Mr. Walls most recently moved to Salado to be close to family. He worked in sales and brokerage of jute products from age 14 and owned his own business until his death. Mr. Walls is preceded in death by his beloved wife “Winnie”.
He is survived by 3 sons, James and wife Carol of Salado, John, and George of Temple. Grandchildren include David Walls of San Fransisco, Scott Walls of Wichita, Kansas, Pam (Walls) Williams and husband Michael of Flint, Texas, and Jonathan Walls of Temple. Great-grandchildren include Adam and Hannah Williams of Flint and Ian Walls of Dallas. Mr. Walls willed his body to the Southwestern Medical School of Dallas. A memorial service is being planned at Presbyterian Church of Salado. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the church at P.O. Box 865, Salado, TX 76571.

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Cpl. Stephen Scott Thompson

Fort Hood announced the death of a Soldier who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Cpl. Stephen Scott Thompson, 23, of Tulsa, Oklahoma, died Feb. 14, in Baghdad, Iraq, of injuries sustained from a gunshot wound.
Thompson joined the military in June 2006 as a Fire Support Specialist and was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 22nd Infantry Regiment, 1st Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division since November 2006.
He deployed to Iraq in March 2008.
Corporal Thompson’s awards and decorations include the Army Commendation Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Iraq Campaign Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Army Service Ribbon, and Overseas Service Ribbon.

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Robbie L. Harrison

Services for Robbie L. Harrison, 88 of Salado were held February 15, 2009 at the First Baptist Church of Salado. Reverend Leroy Kemp officiated.
Burial followed on February 18, 2009 at Ft. Gibson National Cemetery, Muskogee, OK. Robbie L. Harrison passed away February 13, 2009 at a Belton nursing home. She was born Dec. 2, 1920 in Okay, OK to Robert and Bertha Baker Burson.
She attended Grade School in Okay, OK.
She married Glenn E. Harrison, May 17, 1940. They were residents of Muskogee, OK for 59 years. She was a seamstress at Royal Casket Company for 12 years. She was a member of the Hyde Park Baptist Church where she was secretary for 20 years.
Survivors include son Ronnie G. Harrison of Salado, 3 grandchildren and 4 great grandchildren.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Salado First Baptist Church Mission Fund or Salado First Baptist Church Library Fund, 210 S. Main St., Salado, Tx 76571.
Arrangements were handled by Broecker Funeral Home of Salado.

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Ralph B. Cushman, Jr.

Ralph B. Cushman, Jr., 86, died Feb. 4, 2009. Interment was Feb. 7, at Plantersville Cemetery.
He born Aug. 14, 1922. He was an author and businessman, graduating from Milby High School in 1941. He married his high school sweetheart, Margaret Spraggins. In July, 1942, Ralph enlisted in the U.S. Army Air Corp, earned his wings and served in Panama through the duration of WWII. After being discharged in 1946, he resumed his education at the University of Texas at Austin where he consorted with many notables of Texas, including his writing mentor J. Frank Dobie. He began his professional career in Austin, working at the Department of Public Safety as their first Public Affairs Officer, where he served Co. Homer Garrison. After a stint in West Texas, the couple returned to Houston for Ralph to pursue a career in the coatings business before he began his own venture in commercial contracting. His keen interest in politics motivated him to run for political office between 1955-1966, twice for Houston City Council and once for the State Legislature, losing in each attempt, but solidifying valuable friendships with Councilman Frank Mancuso and future President George H. W. Bush.
In 1972 Ralph and Margaret moved to Plantersville, where they were involved in several business enterprises. Upon Margaret’s passings in 1980, Ralph was fortunate to re-connect with Mildred Snyder, an old friend of theirs from Houston, and they were married in 1982. Mildred’s loving encouragement motivated Ralph to pursue publishing his lifetime of research on Jesse Chisholm, trailblazer, peacemaker and friend to Sam Houston, which he first learned from the knee of Andrew Jackson Houston. Ralph’s second work was of Young Bussey, a Houston football sensation, and NFL player.
A fifth-generation Texan, Ralph was the eldest son of Ralph B. and Nell McDougald Cushman. He is survived by his wife, Mildred Cushman of Houston, his three sons with wife Margaret, Ralph B. Cushman, III of Anchorage, Alaska, Russell C. Cushman and wife Linda of Navasota and Reynolds M. Cushman and wife Titia Arledge Cushman of Salado; his siblings, Joy Nell Cushman and Richard S. Cushman of Houston; grandchildren, Maragret D. Cushman, Alexander Cushman, Ryan Cushman and Raegan Cushman, and numerous nephews, nieces and cousins which he all cherished.
Serving as pallbearers will be Robert E. Cushman, Richard S. Cushman, Jr., Russell Cushman, Reynolds Cushman, Austin Cushman and Henry Dean,. Honorary pallbearers are Dr. Denton Cooley, Bill Walraven, Wallace Wilson, Jr., Dr. John C. Gallagher, Dick Gauthier and George Strake, Jr.

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Spc. James Michael Dorsey

Fort Hood announced the death of a Soldier who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Spc. James Michael Dorsey, 23, of Beardstown, Illinois, died February 8 in Kamaliyah, Iraq, in a non-combat related incident.
Dorsey joined the military in September 2004 as an Infantryman and was assigned to 1st Battalion, 66th Armor Regiment, 1st Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division since January 2005.
He deployed March 2008.
Specialist Dorsey’s decorations and awards include the Purple Heart, Army Commendation Medal, Army Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Iraq Campaign Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Army Service Ribbon and Overseas Service Ribbon.

The circumstances surrounding the incident are under investigation.

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Ruby A. Townsend

Services for Ruby A. Townsend, age 82, of Salado were held on Feb. 7 at First Baptist Church in Salado. Rev Billy Johnson, Rev. Mike Bergman and Rev. Steve Sadler officated. Burial followed at the Salado Cemetery.
Mrs. Townsend passed away Feb. 4, 2009 in a Bartlett nursing home.
She was born Jan. 19, 1927 in Praire Dell to John Ferman and Gussie D. (Tisdale) Alexander. She married Kenneth Townsend on November 3, 1942 in Praire Dell. She was a member of Frist Baptist Church of Salado for 60 years. She taught Sunday School, was involved in W.M.U. and sang in the choir for 50 years. She served as coordinator of Senior Adults, ESP (Extra Special People). She was employed with Soil Conservation Service for 30 years in payroll and accounts and was chief clerk of the budget department. She retired Jan. 3, 1985.
She was involved in the community of Salado in several ways and served as president of Ladies Auxiliary of Salado for 2 terms. She was presented with a Life Membership Certificate to the Old Salado School foundation in 1995. She was preceded in death by her parnets, a sister, Eva Juanita Warrick and 2 grandchildren, Stacy Dawn Fellers and Russell Paul Fellers.
Survivors include her husband of 66 years, Kenneth Townsend of Salado, son, Kent Townsend and wife Debbie of Kansas City, MO, daughter, Judy Bruton and husband David of Salado, two grandsons, Tanner Townsend of Poughkeepsie, NY and Nathaniel Nichols of Kansas City, MO, two granddaughters, Stephanie Knoblauch and husband Jeff of Pflugerville, and Courtney Nichols of Kansas City, MO, great grandson Eric Knobluach of Pflugerville and numerous nieces and nephews.
In lieu of flowers the family request memorial to the First Baptist Church of Salado or the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America 322 8th Ave, 7th Fl. New York, NY 10001.

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Charles Turnbo

Charles Turnbo passed away January 20, 2009 at the age of 67 following a battle with cancer. He died at home, with family by his side.
Turnbo was born in Wichita Falls, TX on January 2, 1942, to Leland and Electra (Peggy) Turnbo. He attended Wichita Falls Senior High School and the University of North Texas (UNT), where he was a member of Kappa Sigma fraternity. He obtained a B.A. in Psychology from UNT, and later earned a Master’s Degree in social work from Louisiana State University. He also served in the United States Air Force Reserves for four years.
Turnbo began his career with the Federal Bureau of Prisons (BOP) in 1970. He was a Warden in the Western and South Central regions, and spent the last seven years of his career as a Regional Director for the BOP in Philadelphia and Dallas before retiring in 1996.
One of the greatest passions in Charlie’s life was history and genealogy. He was the author and publisher of ‘The Texas Turnbo’s’ (1976) and co-authored ‘Huffman Heritage’ (1985). In 2002, Charlie edited and published ‘Home Was Never Like This,’ the war diaries of his uncle, who was a POW in Oflag 64 during WWII.
Perhaps the work Charlie loved researching and writing the most, however, was his most recent 2007 publication, ‘Salado, Texas – Frontier College Town’.
For the last 17 years, Charlie was involved in dispute resolution and mediation, and marriage enrichment, divorce recovery, and Celebrate Recovery ministries. In addition, he published ‘My Prayer and Devotional Journal’ in 2001.
He is survived by his loving wife, Beverly, with whom he shared 196 joyful months of marriage (16 plus years); sons Scott (Bo) Turnbo and Jeff Turnbo and wife Shannon of Wichita Falls, TX; daughter Cindy Hathaway and husband Jay of Edmond, OK; and daughter Meg Rainwater of Austin, TX. He was “Peeps” (and “Indiana Jones”) to five precious grandchildren: Rayna, Jesse, and Adam Turnbo, and Sydney and Leah Hathaway.
He was preceded in death by his father, Leland Turnbo. The primary source of Charlie’s character and Christian walk came from his mother, Electra (Peggy) Turnbo, who survives him. He is also survived by his sister, Patricia Rhodes and brother-in-law, Dusty of Carrollton, TX; brother-in-law and sister-in-law, Scot and Paula Baker of Glendora, California; aunt and uncle, Nita and Johnny Gauntt of San Antonio, TX; incredible nieces, nephews, and cousins.
Charlie’s memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. Feb. 6, 2009 at Temple Bible Church in Temple, TX (directions, below). Private graveside services will precede the memorial service.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Discipleship Unlimited prison ministries (P.O. Box 145, Gatesville, TX 76528); 3C Cowboy Fellowship (P.O. Box 1282, Salado, TX 76571); Temple Bible Church (3205 Oakview Drive, Temple, TX 76502); First Baptist Church (210 South Main, Salado, TX 76571); or www.caringbridge.org.

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Bobby D. Alexander

Funeral services for Bobby D. Alexander, 68, of Moffat were held January 31, 2009 at Bethel Assembly of God with Rev. Elwyn Johnston officiating. Burial will be in North Belton Cemetery.
Alexander died January 29, 2009 at his residence.
Alexander was born, July 24, 1940, in Belton to Dave Alexander and Dorothy Hunter Alexander. He graduated from Belton High School in 1958. He married Patty Stinson Nov. 30, 1968. He lived in the Belton and Moffat area all of his life. He was a member of Keys Valley Baptist Church and had been a plumber for many years having worked for Lochridge-Priest for the last fifteen years. He was also a farmer and rancher. He was a member of the American Brahman Breeders Association, Texas Brahman Association and American Hunters Association.
Survivors include his wife Patty Alexander of Moffat; one son Tarrant Alexander and wife Debbie of Salado; one daughter Tricia Tindol of Belton; his mother Dorothy Alexander of Belton; one sister Pat Wilson and her husband Punk of Belton and four grandchildren Colby Beard, Trent Beard, Brady Alexander and Chase Alexander.
Following the services, Alexander was buried at North Belton Cemetery.

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Earl Lacy (Pete) Creasey

Earl Lacy (Pete) Creasey, a lifelong Texas resident, died January 31, 2009. He was born February 2, 1917 in Waco, Texas, the youngest of eight children of Nancy Elizabeth and George S. Creasey. Pete attended Baylor University, receiving his undergraduate and law degrees. He was a member of the Baylor Chamber of Commerce, the Varsity “B” Club, and was elected to “Who’s Who Among Students in American Universities and Colleges”. A two sport letterman, he was captain of the basketball team, earned All-Southwest Conference honors, and received honorable mention for the All-American team.
Following graduation, Pete taught and coached high school athletics in Texas. He was commissioned and won his wings in 1942 and was an instructor in medium and heavy bomber type aircraft for the Second Ferrying Group. He led the Officers’ basketball team in scoring and to a record of 20 victories in 23 games.
On November 11, 1944, he married Jimmy Corinne Nichols of Texarkana, Texas, a Wave in the Naval Recruiting Station. She died in 1994. Pete was also predeceased by his parents and five brothers and two sisters. He is survived by his three sons, J. Peter Creasey and wife JoAnne Sharman Creasey and their daughter Sharman, Nick S. Creasey, and David E. Creasey and wife Meredith Pinson Creasey and their sons Austin and Brooks.
Pete is also survived by his devoted wife Rosemary Pearson Creasey, a native Houstonian, whom he married in 1995; Rosemary’s children Rosemary Harrison and husband Dan, Howard Jacobe and wife Tammie and their children, and Jan Houston and husband Steve and their children.
Pete served from 1942 – 1946 flying combat bombers in the Ferrying Division, Air Transport Command, reaching the rank of Lieutenant Colonel. After his military service, he attended Baylor Law School. He began his law practice in 1949 with Cities Service Oil Company where he spent his entire career, working eight years in Ft Worth, 18 years in Midland, as well as elsewhere. During these years, Pete also got to be widely known around Texas in his role of officiating high school and college football and basketball games. He retired from Cities Service as Assistant General Counsel.
He retired to live in Salado where he enjoyed golf, tennis, fishing, harvesting pecans, and general leisure. He was active in numerous civic and charity activities, especially The Salado Lion’s Club. He also stayed very active with Baylor University as an active member of the “B” Association Letterwinners organization, having served on the Board of Directors in 1985, vice president in 1988, and president in 1989.
In 1992 Pete was inducted to the Baylor Athletic Hall of Fame. In 2006 he was honored by The Baylor “B” Association as a Baylor Legend for Men’s Basketball. Pete was named to the 17-man Baylor All-Centennial Basketball Team representing the greatest Baylor basketball players of all time.
He and Rosemary moved to Houston in 2007.
Pete will be well remembered as a loving husband, father, grandfather, father-in-law; a caring and sincere friend; a dedicated hardworking lawyer, a fine tennis player, a friendly golfer, a great basketball player, and enthusiastic outdoorsman.
The family expresses heartfelt thanks to those who gave loving care to Pete the past few months, especially Darren, Jane, Gracie, Kevin, Yvonne, et al.
Arrangements in Houston and Salado are entrusted to Geo. H. Lewis & Sons – The Funeral Directors Since 1936, 713.789.3005, www.geohlewis.com.
A graveside service will be conducted at 11 a.m February 5, at Salado Cemetery, where Reverend Brian Dunks will serve as officiant, and military honors will be rendered.
A memorial service will then be conducted at 2 a.m. on February, 6 at The Forum at Memorial Woods, 777 North Post Oak Road in Houston.
In lieu of usual remembrances, the family requests with gratitude that contributions in Pete’s name be directed to The Salado Lion’s Club, P.O. Box 372, Salado, TX 76571, or to the charity of one’s choice.

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Sgt. 1st Class Christoffer Hans Tjaden

Fort Hood officials have released the name of a Soldier who died Sunday, January 25, from cause unknown at this time.
Sgt. 1st Class Christoffer Hans Tjaden, 48, of Wisconsin was found dead in his barracks room by fellow Soldiers who were conducting a morale check.
Tjaden entered the military January 1987 as an Infantryman and was assigned to 1st Battalion, Warrior Transition Brigade since November 2007.
Sergeant First Class Tjaden’s awards and decorations include the Army Good Conduct Medal, Air Force Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Korean Defense Service Medal, Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Noncommissioned Officers Professional Development Ribbon, Army Service Ribbon, Overseas Service Ribbon, NATO Medal, Army Commendation Medal, Army Achievement Medal, and Basic Marksmanship Qualification Badge.
The incident is under investigation.

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Spc. Christopher Melvi Wainright

Fort Hood officials have released the name of a Soldier who died Friday, January 23, from a gunshot wound.
Spc. Christopher Melvi Wainright, 26, of Temecula, California was transported from his residence in Copperas Cove to Darnall Army Community Hospital for a gunshot wound where he was pronounced dead.
Specialist Wainright entered the military August 2006 as a Healthcare Specialist and was assigned to the 2nd Squadron, 3rd Armored Cavalry Regiment since July 2007.
He deployed in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom from Nov. 2007 to Jan. 2009.
Specialist Wainright’s decorations and awards include the Army Commendation Medal, Army Achievement Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Iraq Campaign Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal and the Army Service Ribbon.
The incident is under investigation.

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Marvin Wayne Hammack

Marvin Wayne Hammack, born Dec. 7, 1945 died Jan. 21, 2009. Survived by children: Kimberly Dawn Hammack of Georgetown, Christopher Bob Hammack of Georgetown, Nicole Lee Hammack of College Station, Jason Henry Hammack of Fort Worth, brother Robert Odell Hammack and sister Mary Jane of Santa Fe, Texas.
Preceded in death by parents Marvin Thomas “Bob” Hammack and Loren Henry Hammack, brother Ryamond Thomas Hammack and sister Betty Delores Rees.
Wayne was born in Leander, Texas, was raised in Florence, Texas and graduated in 1964 as Mr. FHS. He loved sports, excelled in football, basketball, baseball, and track. He attended Southwest Texas in San Marcos. He served in the Texas National Guard from 1966 to 1972.
Wayne started as an ironworker and moved on to construction management with Fluor Corporation for ten years. He worked on the Alaskan Pipeline and two projects in Saudi Arabia where he met and married Juliet Peralta. He completed his last twenty-four years working as a Real Estate Broker in the Central Texas area.
He was a 32nd degree member of the Masonic Lodge and received an ‘A’ certificate. He was past master of the San Gabriel and Salado Lodges and was active in Liberty Hill, Florence, and Mahamet. Wayne was also District Deputy Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Texas. Also a member of York Rite, Scottish Rite, Shrine, and the Knights Templar.
Pastor Greg Hammack officiated the services at Gabriels Funeral Chapel in Georgetown Jan. 25. Interment with Masonic Rights followed in Bagdad Cemetery in Leander.

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Staff Sgt. Roberto Andrade Jr

Fort Hood announced the death of a Soldier who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Staff Sgt. Roberto Andrade Jr., 26, of Chicago, Ill., died Jan. 18 in Baghdad, Iraq, of wounds suffered when an improvised explosive device struck his vehicle.
Andrade joined the military in October 2001 as a Fire Support Specialist and was assigned to1st Battalion, 66th Armor, 1st Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division since March 2007.
He deployed to Iraq in March 2008.
Staff Sergeant Andrade’s decorations and awards include the Bronze Star Medal, Army Commendation Medal, Army Achievement Medal, Army Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Iraq Campaign Medal, Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Noncommissioned Officers Professional Development Ribbon, Army Service Ribbon, and Overseas Service Ribbon.

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Spc. Ezra Dawson

Fort Hood officials have announced the death of a Soldier who was supporting Operation Enduring Freedom.
Spc. Ezra Dawson, 31, of Las Vegas, Nev., died Jan. 17 in Konar Province, Afghanistan when the Chinook helicopter he was in made a hard landing under combat conditions.
Dawson entered the military in September 2004 as in Infantryman. He was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 26th Infantry Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 1st Infantry Division since January 2008.
He deployed to Afghanistan July 2008.
Specialist Dawson’s awards and decorations include the Army Achievement Medal, Army Service Ribbon, and Overseas Service Ribbon.
The circumstances surrounding the incident are under investigation.

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Wayne F. Baden, M.D

Wayne F. Baden, M.D., of Temple, Texas, died January 16, 2009. He was 89 years old.
Dr. Baden was born in Lake City, Iowa, March 21, 1919, to Justie and Laura (Bassett) Baden. His wife, Kathryn Beery Baden, his parents, his sister, Eva Baden Anderle, and his brother, Dr. Ervin Baden, all preceded him in death.
Dr. Baden is survived by a daughter, Karen Baden Parker, and her husband, Tom, of McKinney, Texas; two sons, Leland Baden of Temple, Texas, and Gary Baden, and his wife, Sarah, of Frisco, Texas. He is also survived by three grandchildren, Kurt Liles and his wife, Melissa, of Frisco, Texas; Kevin Lewis and his wife, Wilma, of Jacksonville, Arkansas and Lara Baden of Frisco, Texas. Additionally there are five great-grandchildren and a great-great grandchild.
The great-grandchildren are Marcus Beumer, and his wife Crystalys, of Mesquite, Texas; Lindsey and Landon Liles of Frisco, Texas; and Elizabeth and Michael Ellis of Jacksonville, Arkansas. His only great-great grandchild is the infant son of Marcus Beumer, Peyton Beumer. He is also survived by brother-in-law Tom Beery of Rockdale, Texas, and his wife, Elein.
Dr. Badenwas a member of Presbyterian churches in Lake City, Iowa, Raymondville, Temple, Belton and Salado. He served his churches as member, deacon, chairman of the diaconate and Elder. He graduated from Lake City, Iowa, High School in 1936. At the age of 13 years and seven months, he became the youngest Eagle Scout in Iowa’s history. He was a member of Chi Beta Phi social and of the “Clan of C” athletic fraternities, enroute to earning his B.A. degree from Coe College in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, in 1940. He entered Iowa Medial School as a private in the Army Student Training Program in 1940, graduated on the Dean’s list with his M.D. degree and as a First Lieutenant, later Captain, in the Army Medical Corps, in December of 1943. He was certified by the American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology in 1956. He was in the private practice of OB-GYN at the Baden-Bennack-Spence Clinic in Raymondville, Texas, from 1949 to 1959. He then went to Scott and White Clinic-Hospital in Temple to organize and chair a new Department of Obstetric and Gynecology and to establish an affiliated Resident Training Program. He was a member, serving in various capacities, of over a dozen medical organizations. He was author and editor of three books and three dozen articles in his specialty. He was Founding Chairman of the Board, and later Executive vice-president, for the Institute of Humanities at Salado, Texas, from 1980 to 1987. He resigned from their clinic staff in 1971, retaining his Hospital membership, and eventually serving as Clinical Professor Emeritus in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology until his death. Scott and White established the Wayne F. Baden gynecologic lectureship in his honor. He also practiced in Temple’s Santa Fe and King’s Daughters Hospitals, and was Consultant to the Temple VA and Darnell Army Hospitals, finally retiring to write in 1988.
Dr. Wayne and Kay established an Educational Foundation n the area surrounding the Lake City, Iowa, Stewart Memorial Community Hospital, in the practice of obstetrics, gynecology, pediatric and family practice.
A memorial service will be held on Tuesday, January 20, at Grace Presbyterian Church in Temple, TX, at 1:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, please consider giving a donation to the charity of your choice, or practice the motto Dr. Wayne tried to live by and simply “Do a good (Boy Scout) deed daily.”

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Richard Hugh Vernon

Services for Richard Hugh Vernon, 77, of Salado, were held January 20, 2009 at Salado United Methodist Church with Rev. Travis Franklin officiating.
Burial followed in the Central Texas Veterans Cemetery in Killeen with Military Honors.
Richard “Dick” Vernon died January 12, 2009 at his residence. He was born on March 17, 1931 in Los Angeles, California to William Robert Vernon Sr. and Coral Campbell.
Dick attended Pomona College in Claremont, California and graduated with a Masters Degree in Nuclear Physics. He worked for Xerox in their Classified Division, on assignment to the Pentagon. He has numerous patents. Inventor of the silent plane, used by the government in Vietnam and Cambodia, Dick is represented in the Smithsonian with three inventions on exhibit. He remained an avid guest lecturer at his Alma Mater in California.
Dick served in the US Air Force and was honorably released from active duty at McChord AFB, Tacoma, Washington in 1955. He was an active member of the Scottish rite under the Campbell Crest.
Survivors include : son Steven Vernon of Simi Valley, Calif.; daughter Denise Vernon of Phoenix, Arizona; brother Bob Vernon of Temple, Texas; sister Marleta Smith of Colorado Springs, Colorado; sister Carol Lynn Ostrum of Mollalla, Oregon; plus many grandchildren, nieces, and nephews.
Visitation was January 20 at Salado United Methodist Church. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to: Pomona College Claremont, California.
Broecker Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

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Mary Katherine McNeil

Belton- Memorial services for Mary Katherine McNeil, 74 of Salado were held Jan. 21 at the Pentecostal Church of Jesus Christ in Belton with Rev. Arthur Washburn officiating.
McNeil died Monday, Jan 19, at her residence.
McNeil was born Jan. 24, 1934 in Comanche, the daughter of Milburn “Bill” Adams and Katherine Knight Adams McNeil. She married Jack Elton McNeil April 5, 1973 he preceded her in death in 1985 also preceding her in death her parents; her sister Dorothy Green and a daughter Ellen Marie Fontana. She was a proud homemaker.
Survivors include sons Bobby Wayne Pruitt; Robert “Robbie” Earnets Mathias jr,; Jack Elton McNeil jr. Daughters Kathy Louise McNeil; Ella Louise Fry; Randa Denise Fry. 16 grandchildren; 22 great-grandchildren.

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Boyd Bryan Fletcher

Belton- Memorial services for Boyd Bryan Fletcher, 82 of Moody were held Jan. 19 at the Central Texas State Veteran’s Cemetery in Killeen with military honors.
Fletcher died Wednesday, Jan. 14 at a Temple Hospital.
Fletcher was born Nov. 21, 1926 in McGregor, the son of William Fletcher and Jennie Naylor Fletcher. He moved from the Moody, McGregor area in the 1940’s to Dallas before entering the United States Army. He moved back to Dallas where he worked in the maintenance department of the Dallas public schools for many years. He also enjoyed working for a leasing that drove cars cross country. He moved away many times and always returned to McLennan County, the latest return home was in 2007.
Survivors include his wife Millie Brimm of Moody, step sons Frank Brimm of Garland and David Brimm of Kentucky; one daughter Nancy Fuller of Irving; three brothers Buster Fletcher of Ft. Worth, Mac Fletcher of Waco and Gene Fletcher of Moody; five sisters Willie Kaldenback of Moody, Trisha Ross of Troy, Margie Pate of Moodie, Faye Johnson of Moody and Bobbie Tanner of Gatesville; one granddaughter Elizabeth Fuller of Irving.

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Sgt. Joshua Lee Rath

Fort Hood announced the death of a Soldier who was supporting Operation Enduring Freedom. The soldier was killed January 8, in Maywand, Afghanistan, of wounds sustained when his dismounted patrol was hit by an improvised explosive device.
Sgt. Joshua Lee Rath, 22, of Decatur, Alabama, joined the military in September 2004 as an Infantryman and was assigned to the 2nd Battalion, 2nd Infantry Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 1st Infantry Division since April 2007.
The Soldier deployed to Afghanistan in June 2008.
Sergeant Rath’s military awards and decorations include the Army Commendation Medal, Army Achievement Medal, Army Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Afghanistan Campaign Medal, Iraq Campaign Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Noncommissioned Officer Professional Development Ribbon, Army Service Ribbon, Overseas Service Ribbon and NATO Medal.

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Spc. Keith Eric Essary

Fort Hood announced the death of a Soldier who was supporting Operation Enduring Freedom. The soldier was killed January 8, in Maywand, Afghanistan, of wounds sustained when his dismounted patrol was hit by an improvised explosive device.
Spc. Keith Eric Essary, 20, of Dyersburg, Tennessee, joined the military in September 2006 as an Infantryman and was assigned to the 2nd Battalion, 2nd Infantry Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 1st Infantry Division since April 2007.
The Soldier deployed to Afghanistan in June 2008.
Specialist Essary’s military awards and decorations include the Army Achievement Medal, Army Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Afghanistan Campaign Medal and NATO Medal.

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Staff Sgt. Kevin M. Marsh

FORT HOOD, Texas – Fort Hood officials have released the name of a Soldier that was found in his barracks room dead Jan. 1.

Staff Sgt. Kevin M. Marsh, 41, of Friedens, Pa., was found dead the evening of Jan. 1 by senior non-commissioned officers of his unit that had come to check on his welfare following a concerned call from a family member that had contacted his chain of command.

Marsh was assigned to 2nd Battalion, 12th Cavalry Regiment, 4th Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Division Rear-Detachment since June 2008. He deployed twice previously in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom, serving as a gunner and vehicle commander in 3rd Battalion, 67th Armor Regiment in Iraq in 2003-04, 2005-06.

His medals and awards include the Bronze Star Medal, Army Commendation Medal, Army Achievement Medal, Army Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal, Army Service Ribbon and the Combat Action Badge.

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