Mary Louise Bevil McKee, a resident of Orange, Texas, for 70 years, died Wednesday at the age of 94. She is survived by her son, Dr. Cooper McKee and his wife Mary; son Clyde “Tad” McKee, III and his wife Terese; her daughter the Honorable Wanda McKee Fowler and husband, Roger; and by her grandchildren, Carrie McKee and daughter, Raven; Kelly McKee Davis and husband, Houston; Carolyn McKee Toves, husband Jason and children, Tori Turner, Sienna Turner, and Sierra Turner; Emily McKee; Robert McKee; Julia Fowler; and Alexandra Fowler. Also surviving her are her sister-in-law, Alice McKee Henderson, her cousins, Frances Blair Bethea, Ann Bevil, Jane Bevil Hanovich, Bevil Hart, and John Talley and her niece Ann McKee Calhoun and husband Kent, and great nephews John Kent and Cameron. She also leaves behind her good friend and helper Jo Ann Henson and her caregivers, Elaine Hock, who worked for Mary Louise and her husband for 16 years, Helen Clark, Monica Fairley, Mary Knox, Pat Moore, and Molly Stringer.

Mary Louise attended Ball High School in Galveston, and went on to Mary Hardin Baylor and Baylor University, graduating with a degree in history and a minor in music. While at Baylor she was voted a Baylor Beauty. Mary Louise moved to Orange in 1947 with her husband, Clyde V. McKee, Jr., who had just completed his masters in tax law from Duke University. They were both active in the community in a variety of ways. Both were steadfast members of First United Methodist Church. Mary Louise was a founder and the first president of the Service League of Orange and was an officer and participant of many other community organizations. She was an avid bridge player and played with two different clubs until she was 93.

Mary Louise was a true southern belle. The words most often used to describe her are lovely, gracious, kind, loving, generous, big-hearted, supportive, and happy. Her heart was immense—large enough to take in everyone from store clerk to waiter to caregiver to nurse to business advisor and of course to her children and beloved grandchildren. She was quick to tell people she loved them, and meant it, and they knew she meant it. With Mary Louise, there were no impersonal encounters.

Mary Louise had a keen intellect, a near photographic memory, and a remarkable ability to recall dates and names, which she used to mark the important dates in her life and in the lives of those she loved, and to remember the names of all she met.

Until the end, her faith in God and in the promises made to all believers was unshakeable. She knew and trusted in where she was destined to go upon leaving this life. We know she is there, still sending her love to us. The world will still be a wonderful place, but it will also be a little less bright without Mary Louise.

Funeral services will be 11:00 a.m., Tuesday, June 27, 2017, at First United Methodist Church in Orange. Officiating will be Reverend John Warren. Entombment will follow at Orange Forest Lawn in West Orange.

Visitation will be from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., Monday, at Claybar Funeral Home in Orange.

Serving as pallbearers will be Clyde V. “Tad” McKee, III, Dr. Cooper McKee, Robert McKee, Houston Davis, IV, Cameron Calhoun, John Kent Calhoun, Kent Calhoun, and Roger Fowler. Honorary pallbearers are Austin Mellen, John Talley, Sam Bethea, Bevil Hart, and Dan Massie.

Contributions may be made in her name to WOC-CISD Education Foundation, 902 West Park Orange, Texas 77630.

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Ashley Dene’ G­­­­­ann-Lawrence, age 38 of Beaumont, Texas, passed away on Tuesday, June 20, 2017 in Beaumont.

Ashley was born on June 6, 1979 in Nederland, Texas, to Rhonda Sue Majors Gann and Guy Lynn Gann. She studied accounting and business at Lamar University and Southeastern Louisiana University, and was planning to return to school this fall. She was a talented artist that loved painting. Ashley was a giving person who opened her home and her heart to foster children and was very active in many different charities in the SETX area. She loved spending time with her family and friends.

Ashley was preceded in death by her parents, Guy and Rhonda Gann, her aunt, Donna Gann van der Stucken and uncle, Scott Gann.

Those left to cherish her memory are her husband, Paul Lawrence; son, Patrick Lawrence both of Beaumont; stepson Shelby Lawrence of Orange; and nine very special foster children: Jacob, Zack, Shawn, Blake, Gage, Christian, Samuel, Thomas, and Dalton. Sister, Katie Kemp-Venable and husband JR; nephew, Austin Borel of Orange; maternal grandparents, George and Claudine Hare of Orange; uncle, Arnold Majors and wife Sherry of Winnie; as well as numerous beloved aunts, uncles, cousins and friends.

Family and friends will gather to celebrate Ashley’s life from 5:00 to 7:00 PM on Saturday, June 24, 2017, at MacArthur Heights Baptist Church of Orange, Texas. Services are under the direction of Dorman Funeral Home.

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Imogene Titus, 90, of Bridge City, Texas, passed away on June 23, 2017, in Orange.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m., Monday, June 26, 2017, at Claybar Funeral Home in Bridge City, Texas. Officiating will be Reverend Doug Shows, of First Baptist Church in Bridge City. Burial will follow at Hillcrest Memorial Gardens in Orange.

Visitation will be prior to the service beginning at 10:00 a.m.

Born in Lamesa, Texas, on August 28, 1926, she was the daughter of Richard Durant Altimore and Ruhama (Coats) Altimore. She was a member of First Baptist Church in Bridge City as well as the Good Sam Travel Club. Imogene was a wonderful seamstress and enjoyed spending her time traveling, cooking, and reading, as well as playing dominos and cards. She will be greatly missed by everyone who had the pleasure of knowing her.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Richard and Ruhama; husbands, Clyde Ebb Titus and Jack Elliott; sister, Willie Mae Coates; and her grandson, Ricky Titus.

She is survived by her children, Richard Ebb Titus and wife Janelle, of Bridge City, Charles Anthony “Tony” Titus and wife Gwen, of Bridge City, and Karen Rose and husband Bill, of Sunflower, MS; 8 grandchildren; 21 great-grandchildren; and 6 great-great-grandchildren.

Serving as pallbearers will be Casey Rose, Joshua Rose, Lynn Smith, Chris Faul, Ty Hollier, and Drew Hollier.

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Betty June Chatagnier, 77, of Orange, passed away on June 23, 2017.

Funeral services will be 2:00 p.m., Monday, June 26, 2017, at St. Maurice Catholic Church in Mauriceville, Texas. Officiating will be Father Delphyn J. Meeks. Burial will follow at Hillcrest Memorial Gardens in Orange.

Visitation will be from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., Sunday, with a Wake service at 7:00 p.m., at Claybar Funeral Home in Orange.

Born on November 27, 1939, she was the daughter of George Hilas Evans and Lula Arminda Evans. Betty loved horses and horseback riding. She was in the Orange County Sheriff’s Posse and liked to show horses. She also enjoyed bowling and won many state championships. She bowled her whole life up until the last few years.  She also liked to golf, paint, and play video games. She was a hard worker who was very involved as a mother and enjoyed coaching her children. Betty will be greatly missed by those who knew and loved her.

She was preceded in death by her parents; and her son, David Chatagnier.

She is survived by her husband of 55 years, Leonard Chatagnier; her children, Tina Chatagnier of Orange, TX, Cheryl Sterling of Jasper, TX, Mindy Wix of Katy, TX; her grandchildren, Jessica Griffin and her husband Drew of Austin, TX, Tony Chatagnier and his wife Molly of Colorado, Megan Pounders and wife Amy of Beaumont, TX, Miranda Gallagher and wife Rebecca of Bridge City, TX, David Arabie of Bridge City, TX, and Nicole Wix of Katy, TX; her great-grandchildren, Caden, Kendall, Carson, Peyton, Rylee, David, Weston, Charlee, Zachary, and Hudson; her brother, Jerry Evans and his wife Florence of Orange, TX; her sister, Patsy Phillip and her husband Charlie of Orange, TX; and her close friends, Jan Harris and Sharon Dryden. 

Serving as pallbearers will be Lance Spell, David Arabie, Jared Broussard, and Chris Kennedy. Honorary pallbearers are Jerry Evans and Charlie Phillips.

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Earl Thomas Cooper, Jr., 76, of Orange, passed away on June 25, 2017.

Funeral services will be 3:00 p.m., Tuesday, June 27, 2017, at Claybar Funeral Home in Orange. Officiating will be Reverend David Milner of Calvary Baptist Church in West Orange. Burial will follow at Orange Forest Lawn in West Orange.

Visitation will be from 2:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m., Tuesday, at Claybar Funeral Home in Orange.

Born in Center, Texas, on February 19, 1941, he was the son of Earl Thomas Cooper, Sr. and Edith LaNell Rhames Cooper. Earl worked for many years at Excavators and Construction in Beaumont. He recently worked for Arceneaux Wilson and Cole LLC. He enjoyed working and was a very hard worker. He devoted all of his life to his loving wife, Ruth Ann and his three girls. He enjoyed having grandkids and great-grandkids. He enjoyed life and never met a stranger. He was also very humble and kind. Earl will be greatly missed by those who knew and loved him.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his loving wife of 55 years, Ruth Ann Cooper; and his brother, Phillip Cooper.

He is survived by his children, Deborah Cooper McHugh and her husband Timmy of Highlands, TX, Becky Cooper Byley and her husband Roy of Woodville, TX, and Pam Cooper Toney and her husband Rory of Orange, TX; his grandchildren, Mac McHugh and her husband Kadi of Baytown, TX, Josh Franz and his wife Ashley of Silsbee, TX, Jenny McHugh Clement and her husband Zach of Mont Belvieu, TX, and Wayne Brooke Byley of Woodville, TX; his great-grandchildren, Graci, Emma Cake, Hadley, Bryce, Ashlynn, Devon, Charlie Claire, and Cash; his siblings, Doris Jones and her husband Harry of Orange, TX, Prentice Cooper and his wife Kim of Conroe, TX, Helen Allen and her husband Monk of Beaumont, TX, and Linda Burkhalter and her husband Danny of Conroe, TX..

Serving as pallbearers will be Rory Toney, Roy Byley, Timmy McHugh, Mac McHugh, Josh Franz, Wayne Byley, Prentice Cooper, and Zach Clement.

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Thomas Earl Day, 86, of Orange, passed away on June 24, 2017.

Funeral services will be 11:00 a.m., Wednesday, June 28, 2017, at Claybar Funeral Home in Orange. Officiating will be Reverend Randy Branch of Wesley United Methodist Church. Masonic Rites will be provided by Madison Lodge 126 AF & AM. Burial will follow at Wilkinson Cemetery in Orange.

Visitation will begin at 10:00 a.m., Wednesday, at Claybar Funeral Home in Orange.

Born in Liberty, Texas, on September 16, 1930, he was the son of Ras Day and Mae (Bingham) Day. Thomas worked as a production foreman for DuPont Sabine River Works for many years. He was a member Wesley United Methodist Church; member and Past Master of Madison Lodge 126 AF & AM in Orange. He was also a member of Gideon’s International and a former member of the Little Cypress-Mauriceville School Board.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his sister, Evelyn Jones; and his grandson, Dustin Cox.

He is survived by his wife, Jan of Mauriceville; his children, Tammy Cox of Mauriceville, Sharon Gambrell and husband Todd of Groves, and Marty Day and wife Keli of Silsbee; his grandchildren, Jessica England and husband Robert of Fredericksburg, VA, Brady and Ali Day of Silsbee, Heaven Cox of Mauriceville, Jason and Ethan Werner of Groves,  and Rachel Hadnot of Woodville; his sister, Louise and husband Charles Ricks of Orange; and several great-grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews..

Serving as pallbearers will be Sandy Jones, Tom Schulte, Harvey Wilson, Henry Freese, Don Ball, and Boyce Ward.

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Betty Jean Dearbonne, age 79 of Orangefield, Texas, passed away surrounded by loved ones on Saturday, June 25, 2017. Services will be at 11:00 AM on Tuesday, June 27, 2017 at Dorman Funeral Home Chapel with Father Dan Malain officiating. Interment will follow at Mary Williams Cemetery. Visitation will be from 5:00 to 9:00 PM with a 6:00 PM rosary service on Monday, June 26, 2017 at Dorman Funeral Home.

Betty was born in Hackberry, Louisiana on July 16, 1937 to Alice Mary Thibodeaux Motte and Ozice Loia Motte. She graduated from Orangefield High School and was a homemaker. Betty was a member of St. Helen’s Catholic Church and the 3rd Age Group. She was a member of the Ladies Auxiliary for the American Legion Post 250. Betty was a courageous  breast cancer survivor who, walked proudly for herself and others during the Relay for Life event. She loved playing cards and making casino trips with her family and friends. Betty loved being a grandmother and great grandmother.

She is preceded in death by her parents, husband Claude Dearbonne and a son Ronnie Lytle.

Those left to cherish her memory are her children; Randall Lytle and his wife Vikki of Mauriceville, TX, John Wesley Lytle of Orangefield, TX, Shannon Lytle Halliburton and her husband Brian of Mauriceville, TX and Judy Dolce of Austin, TX. Eight grandchildren; Misty Lytle Adams, Brian Lytle, David Lytle, Kristy Lytle, Brandi Middlebrooks, Joshua Working, Brittany Lytle and Rylee LeVasseur. Nine great grandchildren; Dacius Lytle, Laiten Lytle, Alexis Lytle, Jaden White, Emily Diaz, Thayleas Middelbrooks, Bodie Middlebrooks, Sarah Middlebrooks  and Baby Alex Jo Trimble to arrive in October 2017. As well as very special lifelong friend, Dot Dronett Dargis.

Pallbearers will be Brian Lytle, David Lytle, Joey Encalade, Brian Halliburton, George Shirley and Richard Shrode.

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Barbara Nell Whiddon, age 79 of Mauriceville, Texas, passed away surrounded by her loving family on Friday, June 23, 2017 in Orange, Texas. A private memorial service to honor Barbara’s life will be held at a later date. Dorman Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Barbara’s family would like to thank the staff (Angels as she called them), of The Meadows for their extraordinary loving care they gave her during her final days.

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Louis Acosta, age 87 of Orange, Texas, went home to Our Heavenly Father on Sunday, June 25, 2017. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10:30 AM on Friday, June 30, 2017 at St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church in Orange, Texas with Father Sinclair Oubre officiating.  Visitation will be in the church beginning at 8:30 AM with a rosary recitation to follow at 9:30 AM. Military Funeral Honors will follow at St. Mary Cemetery. Dorman Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Lou was born in Sweetwater, Texas on January 29, 1930 to Petra Robledo Acosta and Miguel Acosta. An American with Mexican descent, Lou proudly served in the United States Navy during the Korean War, earning several medals. Lou was a Knights of Columbus member, first at St. Mary. He and his wife Pat worked many years with their 6 children as parent volunteers for St. Mary Catholic Schools. Lou coached flag football and Pat coached volleyball.  They shared a love of faith, family and friends. In his later years, Lou was a member of St. Francis Catholic Church. Lou retired from Firestone in Lake Charles and had been a welder with Livingston Shipyard, American Bridge and several other shipyards. He was a boxer in his younger years and competed in the Golden Gloves competitions. Lou enjoyed coaching several fighters for the Golden Gloves. Lou was one of the founders of the Orange Youth Boxing Association and devoted his time and talents to helping inner city youth learn self defense and to guide them by athletic discipline to become responsible adults.

He is preceded in death by his parents, brother Isaac Acosta of Orange, Texas and two sisters, Connie Palmer and Mary Lozano of California.

Survivors include his wife Pat Bowman Acosta of Orange, TX and one son Tony Acosta and his wife Stephanie of Orange, TX. Five daughters; Patricia Harris of Bridge City, TX, Jacqueline Hebert of Johnson Bayou, LA, Angela Honeycutt and her husband Tim of Orange, TX, Jo Anna Clark of Nederland, TX and Jennifer Chapman of Orange, TX. Five sisters; Jane Rodriguez of Hawaiian Gardens, CA, Lucy Resendez of Los Angeles, CA, Lupe Green of Costa Mesa, CA, Julia Hinman of San Bernardino, CA and Irene Tietz of Lake Arrowhead, CA.

Lou never met a stranger; he loved people and His God. We are all children of God was his mantra. Lou leaves behind eighteen grandchildren, thirty- four great grandchildren and one great-great grandchild to cherish his memory.

Pallbearers will be his grandsons; Jacob Harris, Joey Hebert, Shawn Haley, Anthony Acosta, Dustin Denham, Derek Denham, Chris Chapman. Honorary pallbearer, Kolbe Gus.

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Vera Mae Parker, 90, of Orange, Texas, passed away on June 27, 2017, at Lake Arthur Place in Port Arthur, Texas.

Born in Pottawatomie County, Oklahoma, on December 4, 1926, Vera was the daughter of James L. and Nellie J. (Hayes) Bray. She enjoyed playing cards, crossword puzzles, fishing, and athletics, especially basketball, baseball, and swimming. She also enjoyed spending time baking.

Vera attended high school and beauty school in Shawnee, Oklahoma. She was a hair dresser and also worked at Palais Royal in Orange, Texas for many years. In 1947, she married the love of her life, Hubert C. Parker and they remained together until his death in 2006. She and Hubert were both members of Church of Christ in Shawnee, Oklahoma, Groves, Texas, and Bridge City, Texas.

She was preceded in death by her parents, James and Nellie Bray; husband, Hubert Parker; and sister, Vivian King.

She is survived by her daughter, Janet Carter and husband Kenneth L., of Orange; grandchildren, Tracy Brugette and husband Joe and Craig Carter and wife Diane; great-grandchildren, Aaron Brugette and wife Amber, Callie Brugette, Davis Carter, and Jackson Carter; and her sister, Joan Terry, of Apopka, FL.

A visitation held in Texas will be from 6:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., Thursday, June 29, 2017, at Claybar Funeral Home in Bridge City, Texas.  

A visitation held in Oklahoma will be from 1:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m., Saturday, July 1, 2017, at Cooper Funeral Home in Tecumseh, Oklahoma.

A graveside service will follow at Tribbey Cemetery in Tribbey, Oklahoma.  

The family would like to thank Dr. George and staff as well as Lake Arthur staff and Kindren Hospice for their loving care and compassion. 

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Robert E. “Butch” Bourgeois, 69, of Orange, Texas, passed away on June 28, 2017, in Orange.

Funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m., Monday, July 3, 2017, at Cove Baptist Church in Orange. Officiating will be Reverend Travis Hood and Reverend Jeff Bell. Burial will follow at Linscomb Cemetery in Orange.

Visitation will be from 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m., Sunday, at Claybar Funeral Home in Orange.

Born in Orange, Texas, on February 1, 1948, he was the son of Herman Bourgeois and Margaret (Caldwell) Bourgeois. Butch worked as the head custodian at West Orange – Cove CISD for 37 years, as well as Cove Baptist Church for 18 years. He was a member of Cove Baptist Church and the West Orange- Stark Mustangs number one fan. He will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved him.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Herman and Margaret; and his sisters, Dianne Conway and Pamela Bourgeois.

Butch is survived by his loving wife of 45 years, Charlet Bourgeois, of Orange; sister, Melanie Moore and husband James; in-laws, JoAnn and Billy Hardin and Johnny and Esther Bergeron; nephews, Michael Willis and James Moore, Jr.; and his nieces, Nicole Jenkins and Lindsay Moore.

Serving as pallbearers will be Michael Hagen, Jr., Michael Hagen, III, Michael Willis, James Moore, Jr., Paul Chisum, and Joe Langston.

In lieu of flowers, the family has requested that donations be made to Cove Baptist Church at 1005 Dupont Dr., Orange, TX 77630.

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Revel T. Brown Sr., 87 of died Wednesday, June 28th, 2017 at his residence. A native of Gist, Kentucky, he was a longtime resident of Vidor. Revel was a member of the Assembly of God in  Mauriceville and was a member of the Carpenters Local Union #2007. He served his country in the U.S. Army and U.S. Air Force during WWII and Korean War. Revel was an avid golfer and motorcyclist. Visitation will begin at 6:00 pm Saturday, July 1, 2017 at Memorial Funeral Home of Vidor. Funeral services will be held at 2:00 pm Sunday, July 2, 2017 at Memorial Funeral Home with burial to follow at Restlawn Memorial Park in Vidor. Revel is preceded in death by his parents William and Willena Brown, sons Revel Jr. and James Brown. He was survived by his wife of 30 yrs Lenora Brown of Vidor, TX, sons Robert Brown and wife Billie of Vidor, TX, Dennis Gonzales and wife Denise of San Antonio, TX, daughters Melissa Cortez of Vidor, TX, Priscilla Gonzales of Vidor, TX and Debbie Deeds of Camas, WA, 13 grandchildren and 11 great grandchildren.

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Vernon W. Odom, 66, of Orange, Texas died Tuesday, June 27th, 2017 at Christus St. Elizabeth Hospital in Beaumont. A native of Beaumont, TX, he was a lifetime resident of Vidor, before moving to Orange in 1989. He was a member of Calvary Purchase Church in Orange and served his country in the U.S. Navy. Vernon worked for the Orange County Sheriff Dept. and was a past Criminal Investigator for Newton. Visitation will begin at 6:00 p.m. Thursday, June 29, 2017 at Memorial Funeral Home of Vidor. Funeral services will be held at 2:00 pm Friday, June 30, 2017 at Memorial Funeral Home with burial to follow at Restlawn Memorial Park in Vidor. Vernon is preceded in death by his wife Barbara Tillman Odom, daughter Angie Odom Swiney, father Basil Y. Odom, brothers Charles and Bobby Odom. He is survived by his son Darren Scott Odom and wife Kristi of Orange, TX, daughter Kerri Lynn Odom East and husband Joseph of Vidor, TX,

mother Ruby Odom Jasper of Vidor, TX and 7 grandchildren. 

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Marcus Adam Miller, 30, of Orange, Texas, passed away on Tuesday, June 27, 2017, in Hartburg, Texas.  Funeral service, under the direction of Dorman Funeral Home, will be held at 4:00 PM on Friday, June 30, 2017, at First Baptist Church in Deweyville, Texas; Brother Brad Bickham officiating.  Rite of Committal and Interment will immediately follow the funeral service at King Cemetery, in Hartburg, Texas.  Visitation for family and friends will be held prior to the funeral service from 2:30 PM- 4:00 PM, on Friday, June 30, 2017.

Marcus was born in Orange, Texas, on Friday, January 23, 1987, to parents Tammy (Paul) and Carl Mark Miller.  He was a lifelong resident of southeast Texas and was of the Baptist faith.  Marcus was a hardworking man, who spent 10 years working as a welder. He enjoyed riding motorcycles, spending time on the computer, and playing acoustic guitar. Marcus was a loving father and family man, who will be missed by all those who knew him.

Marcus is preceded in death by his paternal grandfather, Adam Miller.

Those who will cherish his memory most are his son, Micah Peccorino; mother and father, Tammy Miller and Carl Miller; brother, Benji Miller; maternal grandparents, Bob and Ione Buxton; paternal grandmother, Paulie Miller; and numerous members of extended family, his many friends, and dog, Sway.

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Buddy Wolfford, 88, of Orange peacefully received his wings on June 29, 2017 at his home with his family by his side.

A mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10:00 a.m., Saturday July 1, 2017, at St. Mary Catholic Church in Orange, TX with Father Joseph P. Daleo celebrating. Burial will follow at St. Mary Cemetery in Orange with full military honors.

Visitation will be from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m., with a rosary at 6:00 p.m., on June 30, 2017 at Claybar Funeral Home in Orange, TX.

Buddy was born in Orange, Texas on March 19, 1929. He was the second son of seven siblings of Liles and Emily Wolfford. Buddy is preceded in death by his parents, Liles and Emily (Spiares) Wolfford, his first wife, Betty Dorman, his brother, Liles Wolfford Jr., and his two sisters, Leatrice (Wolfford) Lee and Juanita (Wolfford) Arnaud.

He is survived by his wife, Verona Kate (Bourdier) Wolfford of over 62 years and their four sons, Wayne Wolfford and wife Judy, Stephen Wolfford and wife Kimberly, Kevin Wolfford and wife Jen, and Greg Wolfford and wife Staci; his ten grandchildren, Brandon Wolfford, Trent Wolfford, Kara (Wolfford) Ricks, Luke Wolfford, Tyler Wolfford, Garrett Wolfford, Clint Wolfford, Kaitlin Wolfford, Kirsten Wolfford, Byron Wolfford; his 15 great-grandchildren; his brother, Roland Wolfford and his wife, Shirley; and his sister, Jeanette Wolfford Frederick.

Buddy was born and raised in the Cove, where at a young age of twelve he started working in the Evergreen Cemetery, digging graves and mowing the cemetery lawn with a no power push lawn mower for $1.00 a day.  After this, he went to work at Consolidated Steel at the age of thirteen. He was a member of the Lutcher Stark Band where he played the coronet and later it was called the Bengal Laucers.  Buddy never had a chance to finish school, leaving in 8^th grade to work to support his Mother and family. He was very close to his little brother, Roland, and he made sure he was always taken care of.  He worked at the shipyard until he married Betty Dorman with whom he had a son – Walter Wayne Wolfford. After an unfortunate illness she passed away at age 20 on February 5^th, 1950.  Buddy then enlisted into the USS Navy and began his service for his country in the Korean war on January 5, 1951. He was very proud of his Navy service, serving on the USS Small & USS Kidd, which is now stationed in Baton Rouge. 

In early 1954, while on leave, he met his soon-to-be wife Verona Kate Bourdier. She was visiting her grandma Simar’s house in the Cove from Iota, Louisiana. Buddy was honorably discharged from the Navy on October 5, 1954 remaining in the Reserves until January 5, 1955. Buddy married Kate on February 5, 1955 in Iota, Louisiana at St. Joseph Catholic Church. The two bought a house in West Orange on 1528 Mustang Street.

Buddy began working at Spencer Chemical in Orange, TX which later became Gulf/Chevron.  He worked as a Process A Operator in the steam boiler area, a skill he acquired in the Navy. On March 16, 1990, he retired from Gulf/Chevron after 35 years, but continued to serve his family, friends and community for many years.

As a member of St. Mary Catholic Church, Buddy served both the church and St. Mary School faithfully for many years. He was a member of the first Jr. High School Board and athletic board for baseball, football and basketball. He annually assisted in the St. Mary School Festival, and could repair nearly anything at St. Mary School.  He received the Bishop’s Medal for outstanding contributions to the Diocese, served at the soup kitchen in the parish hall where he was a member of the Grumpy Old Men Group and served as an usher for mass, particularly funeral masses.   He assisted in building the Wesco Little League baseball park and became a board member with the League. Additionally, he committed many hours to the building of the Lion’s Den Park in Orange and was a member of the VFW & served on the CERA board and cared for the facility and grounds for decades.

Quite simply, whenever someone needed help, Buddy was there. He often said, “I am a jack of all trades, but a master of none.” In his family and friends’ eyes, he was always there to help and knew exactly how to get the job done. His legacy of service will remain with the community and his devotion and love will remain with his family and friends.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made out to St. Mary School Fund, 2600 Bob Hall Rd, Orange, TX 77630, and Southeast Texas Hospice, 912 W Cherry Ave, Orange, TX 77630.

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Ray Raymond Langley, 62, of Orange, Texas, passed away on Thursday, June 29, 2017, at The Meadows of Orange, in Orange, Texas.  Funeral services will be held at 11:00 AM on Saturday, July 1, 2017, at Dorman Funeral Home; Brother John Fortenberry of Calvary Baptist Church of Deweyville officiating.  Visitation for family and friends well be held from 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM, prior to the funeral service on Saturday, July 1, 2017, at Dorman Funeral Home.

Ray was born on Sunday, May 6, 1955, in Orange, Texas, to Nora (Schmiff) and the late Odis Langley, and remained a lifelong resident of the area.  In February 1974, Ray enlisted into the United States Air Force, receiving the rank of AIC, before he was honorably discharged in August 1976.  Ray was a hard working man who spent over 40 years, after his time in active duty military, working in sales as a Sales Manager.  Ray was man who was loved by all and never met a stranger.  He could always be heard laughing and enjoyed making those around him laugh.  Ray loved spending time outdoors fishing, hunting, and camping, and could also be found shooting pool, two stepping, or singing karaoke.  Ray was a father, son, brother, grandfather, and friend, who will be loved and missed by all who knew him.

Preceding Ray in death are his father, Otis Langley, and brother, Timothy Langley.

.

Those who will cherish Ray’s memory most are his daughters, Mistie Carpenter and husband, Jason, of Deweyville, Texas, Jennifer Langley of Deweyville, Texas, and Kristina Milligan and husband, Aaron, of Deweyville, Texas; son, Jeremy Langley and wife, Heather, of Deweyville; mother, Nora Langley; sister, Angela Johnson; brother, Aaron Langley; grandchildren, Trent, Hunter, Maysie, Jaxen, Weston, Jordon, Zoe, Bella, Lilli, Alexis, and Nora Rae; and numerous members of extended family, and friends.

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Linda Joan Vassar, 79, of Vinton, Louisiana, passed away on July 1, 2017, at her home in Vinton.

Funeral services will be 2:00 PM, Thursday, July 6, 2017, at Claybar Funeral Home in Orange. Officiating will be Reverend Gerald Rodrigue. Burial will follow at Hillcrest Memorial Gardens in Orange.

Visitation will precede the service, starting at 1:00 PM.

Born in Louann, Arkansas, on February 10, 1938, she was the daughter of Roelaux W. Black and Erma Lee (West) Black. She was a loving mother and grandmother and will be greatly missed by all who knew her.

She was preceded in death by parents; husband, Edward Vassar; son-in-law, Frank Hantz; and brother, Samuel Perry.

She is survived by her two daughters, Delores Ann Bertrand and husband, Cho, of Orangefield, TX, and Patricia Ann Hantz of Vinton, LA; five grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren; and brother, Roelaux D. “Blackie” Black and wife, Peggy, of Alabama.

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Jo Ann “Jodie” Christian- Davis, 83, of Mauriceville, Texas peacefully joined her Heavenly Father on Wednesday June 28, 2017, at her daughter’s home surrounded by family, love, and laughter.

A Celebration of her life will be Wednesday, July 5, 2017 at 2 o’clock p.m., at First Baptist Church of

Mauriceville in conjunction with Silver Oaks Baptist Church under the direction of both Brother Kevin Brown and Brother Ed Rawls. 

Visitation will also be at First Baptist Church Mauriceville, Wednesday, July 5, 2017 from 1-2 o’clock p.m.  Jodie’s body has been donated per her wishes to Baylor Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology in Houston, Texas, so there will not be a graveside service.  Her ashes will be placed with her first husband, Kenneth “Dale” Christian at Hillcrest Memorial Gardens in Bridge City, Texas at a later date.

She was born October 18, 1933 in Port Arthur, Texas to Joseph Theodore Dailey and Anna Mae Morton.  She spent her childhood on her family’s dairy farm, Dailey’s Dairy, where she was featured as the baby on the milk bottles.  Jodie graduated from Thomas Jefferson High School in 1952 then went on to attend business college.  She worked as a secretary for a title company and other local businesses, and later as a cake decorator. 

Jodie moved to Mauriceville in the early 1960’s with her husband, Kenneth “Dale” Christian.  They started a family and quickly became rooted in the community.  They served God faithfully through First Baptist Church where Jodie worked in the office, nursery, day care program, children’s programs, and mission’s programs.  Jodie was actively involved in her children’s academic life as well as their extracurricular activities.  She was awarded a Lifetime Membership to the Mauriceville PTA, she served as a leader and chairperson of the Dusty Trails 4-H Club.  She spent countless hours on wooden bleachers, medal stadium seats, lawn chairs, smelly gyms, school theater chairs; cheering on her “kiddos” in sports, rodeos, band, choir concerts…

She was a board member of Orange Christian Services, an active member of the Red Hat Society, Senior Choice Club, Senior Group for both Silver Oaks and First Baptist of Mauriceville.  After raising her family with Dale; God called Jodie and Joe to be an instrumental part of the growing congregation of Silver Oaks Baptist Church.  She served alongside members of both church families until she physically could no longer do so. 

She loved to travel and was very proud to have traveled to 49 US states in her RV; her favorites being South Dakota, Wyoming, and Texas.  One of her most wonderful adventures was traveling on a Christian Tour to the Holy Land; she loved telling anyone who would listen about that special trip. 

Jodie continued to serve anywhere she could up until her death.  Only a few months ago she could be found alongside her daughter and great granddaughter volunteering with the 4-H group teaching sewing and cooking.

She spent her whole life loving and serving her Lord, her family, her friends, and her community.  

Jodie was welcomed to her heavenly home by her parents; her husbands, Kenneth “Dale” Christian, George White, and James “Joe” Davis; brothers, Fred Dailey and Theodore “Ted” Dailey, and granddaughter Ashley Christian.

She is survived by her children; Rebecca “Becky” and husband Ronnie Webb of Mauriceville,

Charlene and husband Don Olson of Beaumont, Brenda Willette of Mauriceville, Alvin “AJ” and wife Dana Christian of Mauriceville, and Dalena and husband James Pickett of Kirbyville; grandchildren; Tricia and husband Jeff Longlois of Orange, Donna Buchanan of Austin, Megan and husband Trey Peveto of Bridge City, Edmon Willette of Mauriceville, Christa Pickett of Kirbyville, and Kenneth Pickett of Kirbyville, Bronson Christian of Mauriceville; great grandchildren, Julianne, Chrisleigh, and Jacob

Longlois of Orange, Katelyn Runnels of Mauriceville; sister, Lola and husband James Smith of Kentucky; sister-in-law, Glenda “Ellen” Dailey of Deweyville; and numerous nieces and nephews that she loved as her own; along with numerous other extended family members and community loved ones that also called her as “Mom” and “Grandma”.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made in her name to: American Cancer

Society, P.O. Box 22478 Oklahoma City, OK 73123; East Texas Baptist Encampment 178 Prv. Rd

7005 Newton, TX 75966; Orange Christian Services 2518 W. Park Ave. Orange, TX 78730; First

Baptist Church of Mauriceville Library or Building Fund 11540 Hwy 12 Orange, TX 78732; Silver Oaks Baptist Church Library or Building Fund 16460 FM 1442 Orange, TX 78732; or to a nonprofit of your choice.

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Frank Everette Welch, 89, of Orange, passed away on July 2, 2017.

Funeral services will be 1:30 p.m., Saturday, July 8, 2017, at St. Paul United Methodist Church in Bridge City. Officiating will be Reverend Mark Bunch.

A gathering of family and friends will be held immediately following the service in the Family Activities Center at St. Paul United Methodist Church in Bridge City.

Born in Robeline, Louisiana, on December 2, 1927, he was the son of John T. Welch and Maude Shull Welch. His senior year of high school (1944 -1945) he was elected and served as the 4^th vice president for Louisiana State FFA. He honorably served his country in the United States Army after joining during WWII. Frank worked as a chemical operator for Texas U.S. Chemical/Ameripol-Sympol until retiring at 55 years old. He then concentrated his time and energy into what he enjoyed most, cattle ranching at his family’s homestead. During his retirement he enjoyed traveling with his wife, Lorayne to Europe, Canada, Nova Scotia, Alaska, Hawaii, and many other places. He was also a member of St. Paul United Methodist Church for more than 60 years.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his sisters, Grace Armitage, Sybil Gillespie, and Mabel Elbert.

He is survived by his loving wife of 60 years, Lorayne Welch; his sons, Philip Welch and his wife Shanna of McLewis Community., and John Welch of Los Angeles, CA; his grandchildren, Jared Welch of Austin, TX, and Sterling Welch of McLewis Community.; his brother-in-law, David Sparks and his wife Nell of Bridge City, TX; and numerous nieces and nephews.

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Larry Wedekind, 72, of Bridge City, passed away on July 1, 2017, in Port Arthur. A celebration of Larry’s life will be held 2:00 PM, Friday, July 7, 2017, at The Cowboy Church of Orange County. Officiating will be Reverend Dale Lee. Born in Amboy, Illinois, on January 25, 1945, he was the son of Herman Wedekind and Phyllis Washurn. Larry was a veteran of the United States Army and served in the Vietnam War. He was a very hard worker and loved to work. He owned and operated his own 18-wheeler rig for 38 years. He was a top notch 18-wheeler driver and never had an accident. He was a mechanic and bus driver for BCISD. In his free time Larry liked to play washers and spend time with his family. He was a true leader and a great example for his family. He was an amazing provider for his wife and children, who he cared for very much. Larry will truly be missed by all who knew and loved him. He was preceded in death by his parents; and daughter, Tina Deanne Wedekind. He is survived by his wife of 55 years, Dorothy Wedekind; children, Brenda Moseley and husband, Jerry, of Bridge City, TX, Chuck Wedekind of Bridge City, TX, Crystal Tolar of Orange, TX, and Scott Wedekind and wife, Cyndy, of Bridge City, TX; grandchildren, Kris Wedekind, Destiny Garza, Brook Garza, Emily Sanford, Lynnsee Halfin, Brant Halfin, Reagan Wales, Dean Webb, Cassidy Wedekind, and Chloe Wedekind; great-grandchildren, Addyson Vilo, Ashton Vilo, Spencer Sanford, and Gunner Hunt; and sister, Anna Stevens of Illinois.

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