Arrangements by Brown’s Memorial Funeral Home, 972-254-4242

Elmer A. Basket, Jr.  87  April 25, 1925 – February 4, 2013

William “Bill” Wingo  83  September 9, 1929 – February 6, 2013

Juan Uvalle Lopez  62  November 27, 1950 – February 4, 2013 

Arrangements made by Chism-Smith Funeral Home, 972-259-7644

Rosa Maria Briones, age 44, of Irving, tx passed away February 5, 2013. She was born July 18, 1967. 

Arrangements made by Donnelly’s Colonial Funeral Home, 972-579-1313

William “Bill” George Morgan

September 8, 1949 – January 30, 2013

Patricia Ann “Patti” Brazier

October 5, 1957 – January 30, 2013

Josephine M. Suits

August 14, 1917 – February 1, 2013

Betty J. Moseley

October 18, 1941 – February 1, 2013

Harvey Eugene Cook

July 7, 1926 – February 2, 2013

Emma Mae Branch

May 24, 1925 – February 2, 2013

Joyce Marie Whitley Hickman

April 8, 1931 – February 5, 2013

Volney Ray Currier

Volney Ray Currier was born September 2, 1936 and passed Sunday, February 3, 2013 at the Ashford Nursing Home. He is survived by his wife of 33 yrs Phyllis "Ann" Currier. Six children and many grand children and great children. He was loved very much and will be missed even more. Memorial Services will be held at the First Baptist Church of Irving, 100 Main St. Irving, TX on Tuesday February 12, 2013 at 2:30 in the Chapel. In lieu of flowers please send memorial donations to the National Wildlife Association.

Rev. Arthur L Slye Jr.

Rev. Arthur L Slye Jr., age 81 of Kerrville, TX passed away Saturday, February 2, 2013 in Sisterdale, TX. He was born May 13, 1931 in Little Rock, AR to Arthur L Slye Sr. and Gladys (Cummings) Slye. On January 16, 1954, he married Christine Stoecker in Robstown, TX. Arthur served in the United States Air Force during the Korean War. He went to the University of Texas at Arlington where he received his bachelor of arts degree and received his Masters from Dallas Theological Seminary. Over a period of 25 years, Rev. Slye served as senior minister for three Methodist churches. He became a district superintendent, and later, was elected the founding general superintendent of the Bethel Methodist Church, where he served for 14 years. Survivors include wife, Christine Slye of Kerrville, TX; daughter, Sharon Slye of Garland, TX; sons, Arthur L Slye, IV (Larry) and wife, Lynn of Pilot Point, TX, Eddie Slye and wife, Debbie of Hurst, TX, and Jerry Slye and wife, Cindy of Spring Branch, TX; 10 grandchildren; and 14 great grandchildren. Services will be held at the First United Methodist Church on Thursday, February 7, 10 AM, officiated by Rev. Curtis Morton. Interment will follow at Garden of Memories Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Bethel Methodist Church, 1603 E. Main St., Suite E, Fredericksburg, TX 78624. The family invites you to send condolences at www.grimesfuneralchapels.com by selecting the “Send Condolences” link. Funeral arrangements are entrusted to Grimes Funeral Chapels of Kerrville.

Arrangements by Brown’s Memorial Funeral Home, 972-254-4242

H.M. “Smokey” Eggers  85  February 12, 1927 – January 24, 2013

Margie Runge Martinez  69  February 13, 1943 – January 27, 2013

Billy Ray White  78  January 11, 1935 – January 28, 2013

Arrangements made by Donnelly’s Colonial Funeral Home, 972-579-1313

Ginger Laird

August 24, 1940 – January 27, 2013

Larry Don Boyer

Larry Don Boyer, of Irving, went home to be with his Heavenly Father on January 25, 2013. He was born June 26, 1941 in Howe, Texas. He was an auto mechanic for over 50 years and the owner of Boyer Auto Repair in Irving. Larry was an artist, master woodworker, avid fisherman, but more than anything a great storyteller who loved spending time with family and friends over a cup of coffee or an ice cold Dr. Pepper. He was soft spoken, kind and a great listener. He loved spending time in New Mexico and appreciated God's beauty. He will be greatly missed by his children, grandchildren and great grandchildren: his greatest treasures. He most recently attended Western Heritage Church in Irving. Larry is preceded in death by his parents Clarence M. and Maggie (Hill) Boyer, and wife Linda Cole Boyer. He is survived by his children Beth (Mark), Beverly (Ann), Brigette (Todd), and Angie (Mark); grandchildren Matthew, Maureen, Meghann, Michaela, Maggie, Cameron, and Cole; eight great grandchildren; beloved Border Collie Lady; and first wife, caregiver, and friend Virginia. Funeral services were held at 3 PM Thursday, January 31, 2013 at Western Heritage Church. Burial followed at Oak Grove Memorial Gardens. Friends and family met for dinner and "story telling" at Western Heritage Church following the burial.

Don Brown

Don Brown, of Irving, passed away Tuesday, January 29, 2013. He was born February 23, 1937 in Abilene, Texas. He retired from Jones-Blair Paint in 2001. Don was a member of Kirkwood United Methodist Church in Irving. After retiring, he became an active volunteer with Irving Cares, Texas Scottish Rite Hospital for Children, and Baylor Medical Center at Irving. Don was active with Nimitz Booster Club and all things associated with Nimitz High School in Irving. He is survived by his wife Judy Brown of Irving; son Doyle Brown of Mt. Vernon, Texas; daughter Donna Nystrom and husband Tim of Southlake; brother Tommy Brown and wife Barbara of Hamlin; grandchildren Sydney Brown and Channing Brown, both of Mt. Vernon, and Andrew Nystrom, Zachary Nystrom, and Madison Nystrom, all of Southlake; and nephew Chris Brown of Anson, Texas. Funeral services were held at 10 AM Saturday, February 2, 2013 at Brown’s Memorial Chapel. Burial followed at 3:30 PM at Summerfield Cemetery in Longview, Texas. Memorial donations may be made to Irving Healthcare Foundation, P.O. Box 153705, Irving, TX 75015-9942, Texas Rite Hospital for Children, P.O. Box 199300, Dallas, TX 75219-9300, or Kirkwood United Methodist Church, 2232 W. Fifth St., Irving, TX 75060.    

Joel Allen Brown, Jr.

Joel Allen Brown, Jr., 70, of Dallas passed away January 27, 2013 in Kindred Hospital in Dallas. He was born on October 26, 1942 in Abilene a son of Joel Allen Brown , Sr. and Cornelia Hudson Brown. He was a retired crane operator and served in the U.S. Air Force. He was preceded in death by his father Joel Brown, Sr. in 1991, mother Cornelia Brown in 1994, brother Thomas Brown in 1961, niece Susan Radke in 1974, nephews David Comozzie in 1975, Curtis Radke in 1985, son Steven Brown in 2005, wife Audrey Brown in 2007, and son Kevin Brown in 2010. He is survived by daughters Tami Brown of Alba, Deborah Davis of Dallas; brother Vernon Brown of Harrisonburg,VA; sisters Joanne Radke of Bartlesville,OK; Sandra Rice of Fort Scott, KS; and Beth Rumble of Bartlesville, OK; step-daughters Michelle Herring of Grapevine; Natalie Braid of Washington, IN; and Nicole Wolf of Evansville, IN; 11 grandchildren and 5 great grandchildren. Funeral services were conducted at 11:00 A.M. Thursday, January 31, 2013 in the chapel of Fry-Gibbs Funeral Home with Patrick Cannon officiating. Burial followed in the Tigertown Cemetery with honors provided by the U.S. Air Force Honor Guard. Pallbearers will be Joseph Macaluso, Ryan Macaluso, Justin Dryer, Rob Herring, Tom Wolf, and Art Braid. Family received friends one hour prior to service. Online condolences may be sent to the family by visiting www.fry-gibbs.com.

Douglas Reid Grogan

Douglas Reid Grogan, age 89, longtime Architect of Irving, passed away peacefully at his home in Irving on January 22, 2013. Visitation will be 4:00 to 6:00 p.m., Sunday, February 3 at Donnelly’s Colonial Funeral Home, 606 W. Airport Freeway in Irving. Service is 12:30 p.m., Monday, February 4 at Plymouth Park Baptist Church, 1714 North Story Road in Irving followed by interment at 2:30 p.m. at Dallas-Fort Worth National Cemetery. Doug was born June 9, 1923 in Weatherford, Texas. He graduated from Weatherford High School in 1940 and attended Weatherford Junior College for one year and Texas A&M in Bryan for 2 years. He enlisted in the Army in December 1942 and received specialized training, followed by two semesters at the Citadel in South Carolina. In 1944, he was sent to Europe, entered combat and was promoted to acting Sergeant. Soon thereafter, he received a battlefield commission to 2nd Lt. and then to 1st Lt. A proud recipient of the Expert Infantryman Badge, Doug was awarded the Bronze Star with Clusters for meritorious service in combat as well as several other combat related awards, including the good conduct medal. On December 10, 2012, Doug was honored by the French Government and appointed a Chevalier of the Legion of Honor for his contribution in the liberation of France in World War II. Doug was discharged from service in July 1946 and married Barbara Smith in August that year. After their marriage, Doug returned to A&M where he received his degree in Architecture. He stayed active in the Texas National Guard. Their next move was to work for the George Dahl Architectural firm and later in 1953 they moved to Irving where Doug set up his own architectural firm with partner, Jim Scoggins. Their practice was very successful and among their many commissions were the current Irving City Hall, numerous churches, commercial buildings, personal residences, shopping centers and projects across North Texas. He was designated Architect Emeritus by the Texas Board of Architectural Examiners, as well as being a member of the American Institute of Architects and the Texas Society of Architects. During his years in Irving, Doug served on many City and Civic Boards. He was a member of the Irving Chamber of Commerce, the Las Colinas Rotary Club and a longtime active member of Plymouth Park Baptist Church where he taught for many years. He chaired the Board of Deacons and was honored as a Life Deacon for service to his Church. Doug was preceded in death by his mother and father, C.B. and Blanche Grogan of Weatherford. He is survived by his wife, Barbara Smith Grogan; son, Dr. Douglas R. Grogan, Jr. and wife Patty Grogan of South Easton, Massachusetts; daughter, Deborah Paxton and husband John Paxton of Southlake; brother, Roy Grogan and wife, Jeanne Grogan of Weatherford; seven grandchildren; and two great grandchildren. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that gifts in honor of Doug be made to Plymouth Park Baptist Church; the Disabled American Veterans; or to a charity of choice.

Elizabeth “Betty” “Nana” Hastreiter

Elizabeth “Betty” “Nana” Hastreiter, 89, passed away January 29, 2013 in Irving Texas. She was born in Niagara Falls, New York, on January 3, 1924. Betty moved to Irving in 1967. She worked at Citizen’s Bank as the first teller at the drive-in, and she was also a teacher’s aide at Travis Middle School for many years in the 80’s. Betty was a lover of cats and all animals. She loved being around her grandchildren and great grandchildren. Betty is preceded in death by her loving husband of 51 years, Harold Hastreiter. She is survived by her dear son, William (Paula) Hastreiter of Houston; her loving daughter, Gretchen Brosch of Irving; two grandchildren and their spouses, Erin (Mark) McKee of Irving; Adam (Samantha) Brosch of Little Rock, Arkansas; and three beautiful great grandchildren, Olivia, Peyton and Presley. Interment Services will be held at Dallas-Fort Worth National Cemetery on Friday, February 8^th at 11:30 a.m., followed by a memorial service at Silverado Senior Living Center in Irving at 2:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to DFW Humane Society or The Alzheimer’s Association. Arrangements by Donnelly’s Colonial Funeral Home.

Arrangements by Brown’s Memorial Funeral Home, 972-254-4242

Betty Ann Baxter, 72 

October 27, 1940 – January 18, 2013

Vicki Lane, 61 

October 18, 1951 – January 17, 2013

Claude “Red” Hill, 86 

February 24, 1926 – January 22, 2013

J. Edward Cherryholmes, 81

July 25, 1931 – January 17, 2013

Arrangements made by Chism-Smith Funeral Home, 972-259-7644

Gramham William Ross, 62

August 29, 1950 - January 15, 2013

Melanie Dionne Stephens, 44

December 4, 1968 - January 15, 2013

Arrangements made by Donnelly’s Colonial Funeral Home, 972-579-1313

Arlene Taylor

June 29, 1923 – January 17, 2013

Douglas R. Grogan

June 9, 1923 – January 22, 2013

Duane C. Cleere

Duane C. Cleere, of Irving, passed away Tuesday, January 22, 2013. He was born July 20, 1922 in Paris, Texas. He was a veteran of the Army, Navy, and Coast Guard, and a Navy Cross Recipient. He was a lifetime member of The U.S. Submarine Veterans of WWII; USS HOE. Duane was a retired member of Ham Radio. He was a member of First Baptist Church in Irving. He was a 50 year Mason. His hobbies included music, painting, old war movies, and traveling, and he loved to spend time with his wife. Duane is survived by his loving wife Estelle Cleere of Irving; family Jennifer Grimes and husband Daniel, Vicki Shelley, Reta Higgins and husband Stanley, Sharon Trainer, Suzanne Dedman and husband Allan, Stephen Higgins and wife Amy, Michael Higgins and wife Margaret, Quentin Higgins, Ryan Trainer and wife Rachel, Derek Trainer and wife Dorothy; sister Sudie Worsham and husband Gordon; and Laura Worsham, along with several other nieces and nephews. Funeral services were held at 11 AM Friday, January 25, 2013 at First Baptist Church in Irving with Rev. Wayne Watkins officiating. Burial with Military Honors will follow at Oak Grove Memorial Gardens in Irving. Memorial donations may be made to First Baptist Church, 403 S. Main St., Irving, TX 75060, or Irving Masonic Lodge #1218 A.F. & A.M., P.O. Box 170397. Arrangements made by Brown’s Memorial Funeral Home.  

Robert Lynn Fillmore

Robert Lynn Fillmore, 77, passed away at his Hilltop Lakes home. He was born on November 18, 1935 to Harvey Louis & Dee Etta Ruth (Mullins) Fillmore in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Mr. Fillmore was a former longtime resident of Irving where he was a longtime member and deacon of First Baptist Church Irving. He was the owner of Fillmore & Associates, CPA, a member of Irving Masonic Lodge #1218 A.F & A.M.. Gideons International and a present member of Hilltop Lakes Chapel. He was the Past President of Irving Kiwani’s Club, Past Treasurer of Irving Symphony, and Past Treasurer of the Irving Chamber of Commerce. Mr. Fillmore was preceded in death by his wife, Carol (Holland) Fillmore and son, David Fillmore. He is survived by his two daughters, Cynthia Ann Moore and husband, Dennis of Warrensburg, Missouri and Janet Fillmore Scott and husband, Dave of Lake Charles, Louisiana; seven grandchildren; eight great grandchildren; sister, Raedell Weatherl of Owasso, Oklahoma; and sister-in-law, Susan Morrison of Victoria, Texas. Funeral services were held on Wednesday, January 23, 2013 at 1:00PM at First Baptist Church of Irving, the visitation was held from 12:00PM- 1:00PM prior to services. Masonic Rites followed at Oak Grove Memorial Gardens in Irving, Texas.In Lieu of flowers memorials may be made to First Baptist Church or Gideons International.

Samuel Leighton Van Landingham

Samuel Leighton Van Landingham, 77, passed away on January 06, 2013 in his Midland, Texas home. He was born on August 25, 1935 to Grady & Winnie (Fry) Van Landingham in Iraan, Texas. Sam had been a resident of Midland for many years where he had worked as a consultant as a geologist and biologist and was a member of the Unitarian Universalist Church. He received his Bachelor's Degree from Texas Tech, Master's Degree from the University of Kansas and held two PHD's from the University of Louisville. Sam was preceded in death by his parents. He is survived by his brother, Bill Van Landingham and wife, Judy of Irving, Texas; two nieces, Jennifer Downey and husband, Ray and Sally McClure and husband, John of Mansfield, Texas; nephew, Rick Van Landingham of Denton, Texas; and six great nieces and nephews. Funeral services were held on Wednesday, January 16, 2013 at Restland Coppell Chapel at 1:30PM and on Saturday, January 19, 2013 at the Unitarian Universalist Church of Midland at 11:00AM.  Interment followed at Resthaven Memorial Park at 1:00PM in Midland, Texas. 

Gaylon E. “Mac” McGuffin

Gaylon E. “Mac” McGuffin, passed away January 18, 2013. He was born June 6, 1950, to Don and Mildred McGuffin in Altus, OK. He was a driver for Lonestar Plywood and Door, of Irving for over 25 years. He was preceded in death by his granddaughter, Beyonkia. Survivors include his wife Susan, daughter Tandy McGuffin of Oregon; son, Michael and wife Lavrisa of Gene Autry, OK; grandchildren, Susan, Andrew, Michael and Tommy; Mom, Mildred Walker of Gene Autry, OK; brothers, Jimmy McGuffin of Gainesville, Stanley McGuffin of Gene Autry, OK, and his special companion “Lady”; with numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, aunts, and uncles. The family received friends 6-8 PM Monday, January 21, 2013 at Brown’s Memorial Funeral Home.

Joe Edward Ragland

Joe Edward Ragland, of Grand Prairie, passed away Sunday, January 20, 2013, with his wife Sabrina by his side. He was born November 23, 1956 in Memphis, Tennessee. Joe worked for Continental Airlines for 30 years. After retiring from the airline industry, he went to work for Expert Riser Solutions out of Louisiana. He was a member of the Irving Elks Lodge, #2334 and he loved hunting and 4-wheeling. Joe loved Country & Western music and also the Blues. His favorite artist was Merle Haggard and he knew every song he ever wrote or sang. He enjoyed John Grisham novels. He loved Jack Nicholson and was an avid History buff. Joe loved to dance and was known for his “Joe Shuffle”. He never met a stranger and loved to talk. He is preceded in death by both sets of grandparents and is survived by his wife Sabrina Gregory Ragland of Grand Prairie; daughter Tearnie Jo Ragland of Grand Prairie; son Trey Allen of Grand Prairie; granddaughters “his special princess” Aaliyah Denice, and Natelee Rene, both of Grand Prairie; grandsons Nathan Lee, Colby Ray, and JT, all of Grand Prairie; parents Roland Cooper and Mary Ann Ragland of Fischer, Texas; father and mother-in-law Douglas and Joyce Gregory of Irving; sisters Cissy and husband Lonnie, Cindy and husband Michael, and January and husband Brock; brother, Ronny Ragland and wife Johnnie; numerous nieces, one nephew, aunts, uncles, and cousins; and many friends. Funeral services held at 3 PM Saturday, January 26, 2013 at Grace Pointe Church in Irving. Burial following at Oak Grove Memorial Gardens. Memorial donations may be made to Emma’s House, 920 Bluebonnet Dr., #101, Irving, TX 75060. Arrangements made by Brown’s Memorial Funeral Home.        

Kelly Troyce Suckla

Kelly Troyce Suckla passed away on Saturday, January 19, 2013. He was born on April 10, 1969 in Dallas and was a lifelong resident of the Dallas/Fort Worth area. Kelly graduated from Irving High School then attended DeVry University for two years. Kelly was an outdoorsman, enjoying hiking and other outdoor sports. He worked for Lanier Enterprises and later acquired the company from his step-father. Kelly was a devoted father, son, brother and uncle. Kelly is preceded in death by his father, Kenneth Lee Suckla; step-father, Floyd Benton Lanier and grandmother, Trudy Bell Pate. Survivors include; daughter, Rachel Jordan Suckla; son, Jonathan David Suckla; mother, Charlotte Lanier; sister, Tracy Buck; brothers, Allen Suckla, Tony Suckla, Shane Suckla and wife Cheryl; uncle, Richard Pate; nieces, Athenia Montgomery, Krista Phillips; nephews, Allen Suckla, Jr., Matthew and Nathan Phillips. Everyone who knew Kelly knew of his love for his family and his friends. A Memorial Service was held on Friday, January 25th at Chism-Smith Funeral Home.

Arrangements by Brown’s Memorial Funeral Home, 972-254-4242

Frances Merrilyn Normand, 82 

August 12, 1930 – January 10, 2013

Victor Fagan, 101 

July 17, 1911 – January 10, 2013

Martha Aurelia Murray Dabbs, 96 

March 22, 1916 – January 11, 2013

Deborah Lynn Dunlap, 48 

February 10, 1964 – January 13, 2013

Arrangements made by Donnelly’s Colonial Funeral Home, 972-579-1313

James (J P) Wheless

June 28, 1923 – January 9, 2013

Rev. Charles Victor Denman

March 20, 1913 – January 9, 2013

Dr. George W. Sibley

August 8, 1922 – January 12, 2013

Charley Wayne Clarkston

On January 9th, 2013, the Lord called an Angel Home. Charley Wayne Clarkston was born to Robert V. and Leona B. Clarkston on July 6^th, 1939 in Corsicana, Texas. He later lived in Irving, Texas. Charley was a gentle and kind man who is loved by all who knew him. He was always willing to sit, visit and pray for/with anyone. Charley loved “his” Texas Rangers and Longhorns. We all have a very special Angel pulling for us all now. Charley is survived by two brothers, Bob and Bill Clarkston and sister Millie Green, sister-in-laws Louise and Keli and numerous nieces and nephews. A graveside going home celebration of Charley’s life will be held on Saturday, January 19^th at 11:00 am at Oak Grove Memorial Gardens in Irving.  From a blessed and grateful family, we love you Uncle. Until we see you again, you will be missed. Arrangements made by Brown’s Memorial Funeral Home.

Floyd Eugene Dixon

Floyd Eugene Dixon was born in Chesterfield Pennsylvania, to Zella Knepp Dixon and Eugene William Dixon. Mr. Dixon was born March 12, 1930 and passed away January 16, 2013. He came from a very large family of 13 children. He was the 11^th born in his family. His first wife, Betty Jane Dixon preceded him and he married Ruth McKinley Dixon, she also preceded him. Others who preceded him include, his parents; daughter, Kathleen McKinley Edwards; granddaughter, Candace Smith; Brothers and Sisters, Velda Dixon, Carmel Greenawalt, Kathryn Williams, Alverta Vallalla, Virginia Fravel, William Dixon, Russell Dixon, Veranon Dixon, Grace Dunlap, Beatrice Smith and Charles Dixon. He has only one surviving brother and sister-in-law, Richard “Dick” and Demeris Dixon. He has a son, Steve Dixon, three step children, John Michael McKinley, Diana McKinley Smith and husband Joe Smith, and Kenneth Patrick McKinley. He has four granddaughters, Holly Dixon, Heather Smith, Elizabeth Stockert and Cortni McKinley and five grandsons, Brian Elliot Carter, Ken McKinley Jr., Joshua McKinley, Taylor “Tanner” McKinley, and Jordan McKinley, Also had numerous nieces and nephews and great-grandchildren. He cherished his family so much! He loved his family very much and was always there to help. The highlight of his week was watching the ballgames with Joe on weekends. I know he is enjoying being with all of his loved ones that are in Heaven waiting for him. Graveside services will be held at New Salem Cemetery in New Salem, Texas, Saturday January 19, 2013 at 2:00p.m. with Pastor David Butler officiating under the direction of Rader Funeral Home of Henderson. In lieu of flowers, please make a contribution to a charity of your choice or The Hospice of East Texas, 4111 University Blvd • Tyler, TX 75701. A memorial guestbook may be signed online at www.raderfh.com

Richard Lee Kauffman

Richard Lee Kauffman, 46 of Irving, passed away Sunday January 13, 2013. Visitation is from 2:00 – 3:00 PM Saturday, January 26, 2013 with Memorial Service at 3:00 PM at Aria Memorial Chapel, 1820 N. Belt Line Road, Irving, 972-607-4400. Richard was born October 30, 1966 in Athens, Texas. Survived by his wife of 14 years, Jennifer Kauffman; son, Ryan Kauffman; daughter, Ravyn Kauffman; parents, Freddy & Maritta Jackson and Robert & LaVon Kauffman; brother, Cassidy Jackson; sisters, Starr Goforth and Jeannie Nolan; step brother, Jonathan Sladish; and step sister, Tiffany Sladish.

Henry Grady May, Jr. (Dee)

Henry Grady May, Jr. (Dee) went home to be with the Lord on January 10, 2013. Grady was born in Caddo Mills, Texas on January 7, 1920. He served in the United States Navy during World War II. While in the service, he met Jerry Dale Lucas, and they were married by his Father at the First Methodist Church of Irving in 1944. When the war ended, Grady and Jerry lived and raised their five sons in Irving. During that time, Grady worked at Dallas Power & Light and he and Jerry started a chicken farm called “Real Fowl Eggs” which housed 10,000 chickens. In 1964, they began selling travel trailers as a side business but that business grew so large that they gave up the chicken farm in lieu of operating May Trailer Sales. Besides traveling, he enjoyed jogging, playing dominoes and 42, antique bottle collecting and searching for “buried treasures” with his metal detector. In 2000, Grady and Jerry moved to Glen Rose, Texas where Grady took up residence at Oak Dale Park and Jerry was placed in the Alzheimer unit at Glen Rose Medical Center. While living at the Park, Grady visited Jerry every day until her passing. He performed trailer repairs and warranty work, was active at the Senior Center and enjoyed being a volunteer helper during many of the Park’s events like the Blue Grass Festival. Grady was preceded in death by his wife, Jerry, his parents, Henry and Edith May and sister, Novetta Ahearn. He is survived by his brother, James L. May, his five sons, Henry Grady May III, Phillip Charles May and wife Betty, Martin Bradley May, Clinton Ryan May and wife Vicki and Jere Walker May. Also surviving him are thirteen grandchildren, thirteen great-grandchildren, 11 nieces and nephews as well as a host of friends. Funeral services were held at 10:30 AM Tuesday, January 15, 2013 at Plymouth Park Baptist Church in Irving. Burial followed at Oak Grove Memorial Gardens in Irving. Grady was greatly loved and will be sorely missed.  Arrangements made by Brown’s Memorial Funeral Home.

Lillian Estelle Mingus

Lillian Estelle Mingus, of Irving, passed away Sunday, January 13, 2013. She was born November 8, 1912 in Gentry’s Mill, Texas. She was a longtime member of MacArthur Blvd. Baptist Church in Irving. At her 100^th birthday celebration, she received Gov. Perry’s Yellow Rose of Texas Award, the U.S. House of Representatives’ Congressional Resolution Award, and the Texas House of Representatives’ Celebratory Recognition Award. Lillian’s husband of 54 years, Silvester O. Mingus, died in 1985. She is survived by her sons Grady A. Mingus of Odessa, and C.O. Mingus and wife Becky of Odessa; and daughter Rosa Mingus Gordon and husband Ken of Irving; 9 grandchildren; 19 great grandchildren; and 5 great-great grandchildren. Funeral services were held at 11 AM Thursday, January 17, 2013 at Brown’s Memorial Chapel with Rev. Peter McNabb and Rev. Darrin Mechling officiating. The family received friends 6-8 PM Wednesday at the funeral home. Graveside services were held at 1 PM Friday, January 18, 2013 at Sunset Memorial Gardens in Odessa. Memorial donations may be made to MacArthur Blvd. Baptist Church Building Fund or MacArthur Blvd. Baptist Church Boy Scout Troop #316, 8001 Mustang Dr., Irving, TX 75063.    

Hilda Klingbeil Ricker

Hilda Klingbeil Ricker went to be with her Lord on January 11, 2013, at the age of 97. Hilda was born the 8th of 12 children, in Priddy, Mills County, Texas, on March 1, 1915, to Johann (John) and Amelia Sauder Klingbeil. She was baptized at the Zion Lutheran Church, in Priddy and was confirmed in the Round Grove Lutheran Church, in Coppell, Texas. She was a 55-year member of Kirkwood United Methodist Church in Irving. A 92-year resident of the Irving area, she was active in the Estelle Historical Society and a contributor to the Irving Archives. Hilda attended lower school at the Estelle School in the old Estelle Community near Irving. She had a perfect attendance record and was
double-promoted twice. She went on to attend upper school at Irving High School, where she also had perfect attendance, excellent grades and graduated in 1929, at the age of 15. After graduation, she attended business school in Dallas. In 1934, during the heart of The Great Depression, she married a former high school classmate, Roy Clifford Ricker. They were married 71 years. Survivors include a sister, Pauline Mong, of Dallas; a daughter, Norma Stewart, of Franklin; a son and daughter-in-law, Roy (Rick) and Patti Ricker, of Boerne; a grandson and his wife, Bernie (Bo) and Sarah Stewart of Austin; a grand-daughter, Cassidy Anne Ricker; and numerous nieces and nephews. Hilda was preceded in death by her parents; her husband of 71 years, Roy Clifford Ricker, Sr.; six brothers—Martin, Leonard, Alfred, Edmund, Walter and a Baby Boy; four sisters—Marta Schramm, Hanna Johnson, Lydia Drew and Louise Thompson; nieces, Hilda Johnson Aldrich, Darlene Klingbeil Ceilley and Carolyn Klingbeil; and nephew, Gary Klingbeil. Hilda had been a decorator with W. A. Green’s Dept. Store in Dallas, for nine years, and a Dept. Manager with the Irving J. C. Penney’s Dept. Store, where she was employed for 23 years and was presented with an award by James Cash Penney, himself. Subsequent to her retirement, she was able to become more active in her church and she and Roy enjoyed traveling with the Bluebonnet R.V. Club of Dallas and visiting their children, grandchildren and other relatives. Hilda was loved and admired by all who knew her. She had a reputation of being very positive, self-motivated, honest, confident and cheerful, with a can-do attitude, high character and sense of humor. She had a true servant’s-heart and was always hospitable and concerned with the well-being of others, over herself. Funeral services were held at Kirkwood United Methodist Church at 2 pm, on Friday, January 18. Committal services will be held at DFW National Cemetery in Dallas on Tuesday, January 22, at 2:15 pm. In lieu of flowers, anyone wishing to make a memorial in Hilda’s name may send it to Kirkwood United Methodist Church, 2232 W. 5th St., Irving, TX 75060. Arrangements made by Brown’s Memorial Funeral Home.  

Rev. Dr. Joseph R. Sheppard

Rev. Dr. Joseph R. Sheppard was born and raised in Terrell, Texas on July 5, 1935. He was taught the word of God in his Christian home by his father & mother, Rev. & Mrs. Wilburn G. Sheppard. His father was pastor of the Mt. Hebron Baptist Church of Terrell, Texas until his death. Rev. Sheppard received his call/commission at an early age. He was later licensed on May 30, 1954 at the Bethlehem Baptist Church, in Terrell, Rev. M.L. Bradford, Pastor. June 4, 1956 he received his ordination at the Riverside Baptist Church of Dallas, Texas, Rev. A.H. Haggerty, Pastor. In February 1961 he began courting the Ben Washington Baptist Church and was called in April to serve as full time Pastor. Under Pastor Sheppard’s leadership, The West Irving Improvement Association (WIIA) was organized in 1963. The WIIA was among the first in the Nation to sponsor a “Head Start” Program. Besides having served the BWBC Pastor Sheppard cherishes the memory of eight years (1973-1981) of “Sharing the Faith” on channel 8 and the receiving of his doctorate degree from Guadalupe College and Seminary. In 1992, Pastor Sheppard received Irving’s “High Spirited Citizen” Award. In October, 1995 he was awarded Irving’s “Salt & Light Award”. 2005-2006 ….Selected as an Honor Member of the Heritage Registry of Who’s Who Edition. April 25, 2010 Pastor Sheppard was featured with three other local Pastors by the Dallas Morning News Religion Section titled “Living Legends”. October 16, 2010 NAACP “Clergy of the Year Award.” April 16, 2011 Pastor Sheppard was recognized at the “Tenth Unsung Heroes Luncheon Honoring Men of Valor” by ETA PHI Beta Sorority, Inc. Epsilon Chapter. May 19, 2011 joint recognition from the Boy Scouts & Gideons at their breakfast in Irving, TX. He had been a citizen of Dallas County for 57 years. Rev. Sheppard served as a member of the hierarchy of associational leadership including the National Missionary Baptist Convention of America, Inc., a member of the Baptist Training Union Board of the Missionary Baptist General Convention of Texas, Emeritus 1^st Vice Moderator of the Fellowship District Association and the Irving Ministerial Association. Elected and served as Treasury of the North Zone Branch of the Missionary Baptist Convention of Texas. Rev. Sheppard died Monday, January 14, 2013 from cancer at the age of 77. The funeral is on Saturday, January 19, at Noon located at the Calvary Church.

KennethWalker Hearn

On Saturday at 1:40 PM, Mr. Kenneth Walker Hearn, born on Dec. 24, 1935 died at the age of 77 from a long illness as a result of his esophagus exploding in 2005. Only one out of nine people who have this happen even live after the surgery but he lived for 7 more years. His last few years were a struggle just to breathe because he lived with a hole in his esophagus and COPD. He was a giant in the Irving/ Grand/Prairie Community of Bear Creek. He is one of the Founders of the Bear Creek Development Corporation and of the oldest Black non-profit in Irving, namely, the West Irving Improvement Association, (WIIA)., founded in 1964 and located at 3901 Jackson Street across the street from J. O Davis Elementary School. The Yellow Building as all the Blacks call it, would not be there if it were not for the work of Mr. Hearn. Mr. Hearn led and funded the effort to save the West Irving Improvement Association land when Greater Headstart of Dallas attempted to take the land from the WIIA The baseball field right beside the Yellow Building that butts up to the Jackie Townsell Heritage Park is named The Sott-Hearn Field. It is named after Mr. Hearn. Mr. Hearn was one of the first Black members of the Irving Jaycees. He along with Ruth Paine, the landlord of Henry Lee Oswalt, helped to found the first Montessori School in Irving back in 1964. He assisted in the campaign in the early sixties to get Blacks the right to use the Irving Public Libraries. Mr. Kenneth Walker Hearn was a hero, a mentor, a friend, a father figure, a minature Martin Luther King to so many and one of the largest landowners in the Black Community of Bear Creek