Shelby County Today

07/03/2025

Silver Bell Motley, 87, passed away peacefully on July 1, 2025, in Center. She was born on December 31, 1937, to Marley Steven Bell and Mildred Lookabaugh Bell in Ennis, Texas.

Visitation will be held at 10am on Wednesday, July 9, 2025, at First Baptist Church in Center, with the service to follow at noon. Interment will follow at Oaklawn Memorial Park.

Silver Bell was raised in a home full of love, hard work, a strong sense of family, and lots of laughter. Her father Steve was a cattleman and trader with a sixth-grade education and a heart the size of Texas. Her mother Mildred was a gifted teacher, highly educated, a fabulous seamstress and largely the disciplinarian of the household. With her two sisters, Linda and Kathy, Silver grew up in Frankston, Texas, through her freshman year in high school, where she was a cheerleader and played tennis and basketball. Her family moved to Nacogdoches briefly then to Center at the beginning of her Junior year. Never a shy one, Silver recalls catching the eye of a handsome Sophomore, Luke Motley, on the first day of school. After going on a double date, each with other people, she knew Luke was going to ask her out. Sure enough, he asked to carry her home from church that Sunday, which began what would be a lifelong courtship.

Silver graduated in 1956 from Center High School and attended Stephen F. Austin State University, earning a marketing degree while also being chosen as the 1958 SFA Homecoming Queen and voted Miss SFA. Luke, in the meantime, attended Baylor University, with the two charting their own paths, until the day Silver received a job offer in another state. Luke’s mother, Martha, didn’t mince words in telling him he needed to get on the ball if he wanted to catch and marry Silver Bell. He asked, she said yes, and they married on June 5, 1959, and loved each other well for 66 years.

Silver and Luke made their home in Center, investing their lives in the community through banking, volunteerism, service organizations, First Baptist Church, and raising three children - son Luke IV, daughter Monica, and daughter Meredith. Although Silver filled many roles in her lifetime, her greatest joy was being a wife and mother. It wasn’t until all three kids were in college at Baylor University—at the same time—that Luke said, “Silver… I think it would be a good idea for you to start teaching.” This marked the beginning of a newfound personal passion for Silver in connecting with and caring deeply for her students. She enjoyed a 17-year teaching career at Center ISD, including being recognized as the 2003 Shelby County Teacher of the Year. Silver said, “On a good teaching day, I taught my students to learn 2 or 3 new things.” She held them to a very high standard balanced with consistent encouragement and praise. She believed “To teach once was to learn twice,” a lesson she shared with her own kids, which inspired her daughter, Meredith, to become a teacher. Meredith is now teaching at Center ISD and her students are children of her mom’s students. It never fails, when parents find out Meredith is Silver’s daughter, their gratitude for how she changed their life is overwhelming.

Silver Bell Motley was a gift of a person, a friend to everyone, with a competitive, witty spirit, sincere joy, class, and kindness. Beneath it all was her unwavering belief and full faith in the birth, death, and resurrection of her Savior, Christ Jesus, and the promise of eternal life. She not only understood but modeled the redemptive power of forgiveness, grace, and unconditional love, which she gave freely to her family and everyone who knew her.

She is survived by:

Beloved husband of 66 years, Luke Motley III

Son, Luke Motley IV and wife Rosalind of Sherman, Texas and family
Granddaughter, Marlee Wilson and husband Chase of Sherman, Texas
Great-Grandchild, Jeffrey Camden Wilson
Granddaughter, Jordan Motley of Austin, Texas
Granddaughter, Mary Kate Motley of Encinitas, California

Daughter: Monica Van Slate and husband Jon of Houston, Texas and family
Granddaughter, Sara Compton and husband Mitchell of Dallas, Texas
Great-Grandchild, William Jon Compton
Granddaughter, Emily Davis and husband David of Grapevine, Texas

Daughter: Meredith Morris and husband Brian of Center, Texas and family
Morgan Morris of Splendora, Texas
Jake Morris of Longview, Texas

Chosen daughter-in-law, Kelli Mathews of Center, Texas and family
Grandson, Collin Mathews and wife Madyson of Center, Texas
Great-Grandchild, Vaughn Miller Murray Mathews
Granddaughter, Taighen May and husband Trevor of Center, Texas

Sister, Linda Lane of Center, Texas and family
Niece, Aleshia Fife and husband Keith of Center, Texas
Great-niece, Allana Gallant
Great-nephew, Jackson Fife
Nephew, Mark Massey and wife Wendy of Kemah, Texas
Great-nephew, Harrison Massey
Great-nephew, Hunter Massey
Great-niece, Savannah Massey
Great-nephew, Colton Massey

Nieces/Nephews:
Debbie Armstrong and daughter LeAnn of Humble, Texas
Christie Pickens and husband Chris of Lumberton, Texas and family
Great-nephew, Austin Pickens
Great-niece, Cortney Stelly
Great-niece, Abby Hutto

Preceded in death by parents, Steven “Steve” and Mildred Bell; in-laws, Luke “Jack” and Martha Motley; sister-in-law and brother-in-law, Charles and Kathy Noble; sister-in-law and brother-in-law, Jeanne and Leland Howard; nephew-in-law, Keith Armstrong; brother-in-Law, Wardlow Lane; niece, Noelle Noble; and chosen son, Murray Mathews.

Pallbearers are Jake Morris, Collin Mathews, Mark Massey, Mitchell Compton, David Davis, and Chase Wilson.

Caregivers: The family would like to extend their love and heartfelt gratitude to Mom’s caregivers: Ashley McCollister, Shant’e McCollister, Patsy Patton, Anastasia Barnes, and housekeeper, Delfina. You will never know the appreciation we have for you. Thank you for loving Mom and Dad as if they were your own. You became part of our family and journeyed through this storm with us. You’ve cried with us, rejoiced with us, worried with us, and laughed with us. Your presence was a consistent comfort in a process that nobody knew how to navigate. May God shower you with blessings every day! All our love!

In lieu of flowers, please donate to The Silver Bell Motley Roughrider Scholarship Fund, PO Box 152, Center, Texas 75935.

Silver’s Wishes:
She said, "Do NOT wear black. Dress Happy!!" Silver said, "Smile!!" and "May you always have Love to share, Health to spare, and Friends to care."

07/02/2025

Joyce Ham Kirkley was called home to The Lord on June 19, 2025. She was 97. A lifelong resident of Center, graduating Center High School in 1945, voted "Most Popular" in her class.

She was a devoted wife and mother, "Nan" to much loved grandchildren, and a cherished friend to many. Her passions were Bible study, piano, and service to church and community. She was a long time member of Center First Baptist Church.

Her survivors include:

Son, Richard Kirkley and wife Louanne, "Kate", of Kerrville, Texas

Grandchildren:
Rex Kirkley and wife Missy of Center
Rick Kirkley of Center
Renee Swain of Colorado
Shelby Stennett of Colorado

5 Great-grandchildren
3 Great-great-grandchildren
8 Nieces and Nephews

Special friends: JW Braden, Sandy Yarbrough, Julie Richards, and Nikke White

Special niece, Marge Hyer Choate

She was preceded in death by her husband of 64 years, Gene Kirkley; daughter, Jena Joy, "Candy", Engle of Jefferson, Texas; brother, Hap Ham of Jefferson, Texas; and parents, Pleas and Buna Stephens Ham.

The family wishes to thank Ms. Kaye and all the staff at Lakeside Village Assisted Living in Center, for their love and loving care for "Ms. Joyce" for almost 10 years.

"I'll not be needing this old body anymore... " Thanks to Watson and Sons Funeral Home in Center for donation arrangements with Texas A&M Health Science Center for Medical Research.

A family Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. 

Please send thoughts and special memories to Richard: erkirkley@hotmail.com

06/30/2025

LaMoine Kaufman Williams, 72, of Lufkin, passed away Saturday, June 28, 2025, in Lufkin.

Graveside service will be held at 11:00 a.m., Thursday, July 3, 2025, at Oaklawn Memorial Park in Center with Bro. Michael Williams officiating.

Born January 28, 1953, in Center, LaMoine is the son of Kaufman Pearl Williams, Jr. and Hazel Dean Williams.  He served in the United States Army.  LaMoine loved reading, cooking, and his dog, Jetter.  A follower of Jesus, LaMoine was a member of First Assembly of God.

He is survived by:

Daughter, Rebecca Williams Lackey

Sister, Regina Williams

Brother, Michael Williams.

Preceded in death by his wife, Sue Williams; son, Nathan Kaufman Williams; and parents, Kaufman Pearl Williams, Jr. and Hazel Dean Williams.

Online condolences and tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfuneralhome.com

06/26/2025

Tammy Lynn Rice, 55, of Leesville, Louisiana, passed away Monday, June 23, 2025, in Alexandria, Louisiana.

Graveside service will be held at 4:00 p.m., Saturday, June 28, 2025, at Mt. Pleasant Cemetery in Shelby County with visitation beginning at 3:00 p.m. at Watson & Sons Funeral Home in Center. Bro. Rodney Cox will officiate.

Born October 12, 1969, in Shreveport, Louisiana, Tammy is the daughter of Pat W. Bussey, Jr. and Terry Lynn Bradshaw Rice. She resided in Longview, Texas, for twenty-eight years, where she worked side by side with her mother at The Flower Peddler. Tammy was also a Mary Kay consultant for over thirty years. She loved the outdoors, enjoyed fishing, hunting, and spending time on the water with her dad and Carolyn on their boat, “Miss Candy Kids.” Her hobbies included traveling, cooking, shopping, decorating for the holidays, and spending time with her family-especially her grandkids. Tammy was a member of Alpine Church of Christ.

She is survived by:

Husband, Danny Rice of Leesville, Louisiana

Daughters:
Amber Barber and husband Jeremy of Longview, Texas
Ashley Bridwell of Longview, Texas

Grandchildren:
Alyvia and Aubrey Barber of Longview, Texas
Lauren Phillpott and husband Ryan

Step-daughter, Alicia Lacoste and husband Craig of Houma, Louisiana

Brother, Patrick W. Bussey III and wife Amanda of Orange Beach, Alabama

Nephew, Patrick Finnigan (Finn) of Orange Beach, Alabama

Aunts and Uncles:
Brenda Dean and husband Bobby of Center, Texas
Brenda Bartle and husband Tom of Fort Worth, Texas

Special Cousins:
Bobby Hunter Dean of Center, Texas
Brandy Gebala and son Lukas of Longmont, Colorado.

Preceded in death by father, Patrick W. Bussey, Jr. and wife Carolyn; mother, Terry L. Bradshaw Rice and husband Loyd; grandparents, Pat and Lois Bussey and Hunter and Clara Bradshaw.

Online condolences & tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfuneralhome.com

06/25/2025

Wanda Fay Mathes Johnson, 84, of Joaquin, passed away Tuesday, June 24, 2025, in Joaquin.

Visitation will be held from 6pm to 8pm, Friday, June 27, 2025, at Watson & Sons Funeral Home in Center. Funeral service will be held at 10am, Saturday, June 28, 2025, at Old Home Missionary Baptist Church in Shelby County. Interment will follow at Old Home Cemetery in Shelby County.

Born May 23, 1941, in Sugarland, Wanda is the daughter of Allsey Mathes and Pearl Mae Hard Mathes. She was a member of Old Home Missionary Baptist Church.

She is survived by:

Sons:
Billy Joe Watson Jr. of Joaquin
John Allsey Watson and wife Wendy of Joaquin

Grandchildren:
Bradley Joe Watson and wife Alexis
Amanda Fontenot and husband Keith
Sara Watson
Jim Anna Britton and husband George
Johnathan Watson

Great-grandchildren:
Marlie Watson
Jasper Watson
Eli Watson
Sophia Watson
Korbyn Fontenot
Kamryn Fontenot
Hattie Watson

Sister, Mary Anderson

Preceded in death by husband, Allen D. Johnson; parents, Allsey Mathes and Pearl Mae Hard Mathes; and brother, Alfred Wayne Mathes.

Pallbearers will be Bradley Watson, Keith Fontenot, George Britton, Korbyn Fontenot, Kamryn Fontenot, and Nathan Wells.

Online condolences and tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfuneralhome.com

06/24/2025

Lucinda Richards, 54, of Center, passed away Monday, June 23, 2025, in Center.

Graveside service will be held at 2pm, Sunday, June 29, 2025, at White Rock Cemetery in Center.

Born October 5, 1970, Lucinda is the daughter of Bazell E.D. Williams and Anita Louise Meyers Williams. She worked at Brookshire Brothers as a fry cook for eighteen years. Lucinda’s hobbies included writing poetry and spending time with her grandchildren.

She is survived by:

Husband, Wayne Richards of Center

Children:
Casadie Hagler and husband Corey of Center
Robin Richards of Center
Cordel Richards and Courtney Douglas of Center

Grandchildren:
Braelyn Cosby
Reagan Hagler
Blaine Hagler

Sisters:
Anita and husband Robert Killey of Center
Tammy and husband Ronnie Davis of Center

Brothers:
Edward Williams and wife Louise of Center
Franklin Williams and wife Lynn of Center

Brother-in-law, Johnny Ray Richards and wife Paula of Louisiana

Also, numerous nieces and nephews.

Preceded in death by parents, Bazell E.D. Williams and Anita Louise Meyers Williams; brother, Randolph Williams; and father-in-law and mother-in-law, James and Jerelyn Richards.

Her family members will serve as pallbearers.

Online condolences and tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfuneralhome.com

06/23/2025

Helen Dayle (Hobbs) Weible, passed away peacefully on June 20, 2025, in Shelbyville, Texas, surrounded by loved ones. Born on March 18, 1954, in Jonesville, Louisiana, Helen lived a life marked by devotion to her family, a passion for teaching, and a deep love for the simple joys of country living.

A Visitation will be held on June 28, 2025, from 2:00 PM to 3:00 PM at Mangum Funeral Home, 420 San Augustine St., Center, Texas. A memorial service will follow at 3:00PM with Bro. B.J. Windham officiating.

On January 19, 1973, Helen married her best friend and lifelong companion, Jon Weible. Their enduring partnership was a testament to love and mutual respect. Together they built a family that brought her immense pride and happiness. She went on to dedicate 25 years of service to Shelbyville High School before retiring. Her commitment to education left a lasting impression on generations of students and colleagues alike. She loved teaching and found joy in sharing knowledge and nurturing young minds.

Helen had a deep affection for animals—especially the goats and chickens she tended on her farm—and cherished the companionship of her house pets. She enjoyed thrifting adventures that often led to unexpected treasures and spent quiet moments immersed in books. Her dry sense of humor brought laughter to those around her.

Above all else, Helen loved the Lord and held fast to her faith throughout her life. Her warmth touched many lives through both her personal relationships and professional dedication.

Helen is lovingly remembered by:

Husband, Jon Weible

Daughters:
Tina Feaster
Becky Adkison and Jeff Davis
Brandy Rambin and husband Chase

Grandchildren:
Ty Feaster
Christopher Feaster
Michael Feaster
Caitlyn Feaster
Jesse Adkison
Brylee Rambin
Becca Rambin

Great-grandchildren:
Mack Feaster
Cal Feaster (arriving October 2025)

Brother, James Hobbs and wife, Joyce

She was preceded in death by her parents, Eddie and Mary Hobbs; brothers, J.C. Hobbs, Burlon Hobbs, Howard Hobbs, Edward Hobbs; and sisters, Marylou Hobbs Townsend, Rosa Nell Hobbs Trim, and Sylvia Hobbs Smith.

To send condolences or to sign an online register, please visit www.mangumfh.net. Mangum Funeral Home, Center, is in charge of arrangements.

06/23/2025

Barry Joe Horton was born on January 12, 1951, in Shreveport, Louisiana and was surrounded by his family as he took his final earthly breath on June 15, 2025, at the age of 74, in Tyler, Texas.

Born to Arthur and Irene Bailey Horton, Barry was raised in Timpson, Texas. In his youth, he was active in the Timpson community: he was a proud Eagle Scout, an active member of the First Baptist Church, a four year varsity letterman in track and football as well as Mr. School Spirit in his Sophomore year. He graduated from Timpson High School in 1969 and went on to graduate from Stephen F. Austin State University in 1975 with a degree in Business Administration. On April 7, 1973 he married Anita Anne Morris. Though their relationship turned out to be less permanent than either of them expected, they raised two exceptional, intelligent, and loving children, BJ and Chase, while living in Jersey Village, TX. Barry worked at Jefferson Pilot Life Insurance in Houston for most of his career. After retirement, Barry returned to Timpson where he lived out his remaining days.

Barry enjoyed the simpler things in life like a hot cup of black coffee, a heaping plate of fried chicken, and the company of family and friends. Barry was a devoted father—spending many years volunteering his time and resources to Boy Scouts. He served as a Den Leader, a Cub Master, and Scout Master for BJ and Chase’s Cub Scout Pack and Troop. He never took himself too seriously as evidenced by his participation in the “Womanless Beauty Contest” to raise money for the boy’s pack. While he didn’t win the contest, his participation created lasting and joyful memories for all who attended. Barry was happiest when he was spending time in nature with his sons and he appreciated the life lessons and skills that he was able to share with his children through Scouting. Barry took great pride in the accomplishments of his children and never shied away from being their constant cheerleader—whether he supported them by making fabric flags with the logo of their baseball team that he proudly waved behind the outfield fence at baseball games or the myriad of photos of BJ and Chase that he proudly displayed in his home.

Barry delighted in the opportunities he had to spoil his two grandchildren: Trey and Emaline when they came to visit. Living in Timpson allowed “Pop” to share fond childhood memories with his grandchildren. Trey loved exploring the property with Pop and visiting “Trey’s tree” along the creek and Emaline loved sitting at the kitchen table for a tea party and listening to Pop tell stories. Both grandchildren fondly remember the games they would play with their Pop in the “tricky trees.” They will miss him deeply, but know that he is with Jesus. 

When asked how they would describe their father, BJ and Chase quickly replied that their Dad was godly, adventurous, stubborn, and hungry—for good food and for life. They never had to question the love their dad had for them—he always sent birthday cards and letters of which he always signed them with his beloved acronym YDLY.

Barry Horton was a loving father, a devoted follower of Jesus, an outdoor enthusiast, a collector of memories, and a teller of stories. He will be greatly missed by his family and all who knew him well.

He is survived by:

Children:
BJ Horton and wife, Amanda
Chase Horton and wife, Pati

Grandchildren: Trey and Emaline

Former wife, Anita Overhouse and husband, Jeff

Seven grand-pups: Fancy Pants, Piddles, Ollie, Astro, Stafford, Short Stop and Ruby Sue

Sibling, Hal Horton and wife, Arlene

Niece and nephew:
Sheila Barrett and husband, Carl
Art Horton and wife, Kim

A lifetime of extended family and close friends, who he cherished and loved dearly.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Arthur F. Horton and Irene Bailey Horton. 

Visitation will be held on Friday, August 8, 2025 from 1pm to 2pm at Taylor Funeral Home located at 511 Ross Graves Drive, Timpson, Texas with the funeral services following at 2pm.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in Barry’s honor to Scouting America at bit.ly/BarryHortonmemorial.

An online memorial is also available at www.taylorfh.net.

06/23/2025

Robert Gene Richards, Sr., 74, of Tenaha, passed away Thursday, June 19, 2025, in Carthage. He was born September 18, 1950, in Tenaha.

Visitation will be held from 6pm to 8pm, Friday, June 27, 2025, at Watson & Sons Funeral Home in Center. Funeral service will be held at 1pm, Saturday, June 28, 2025, at Triumph The Church of Kingdom of God and Christ, 908 Daniels Street, Center, Texas.

Online condolences and tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfuneralhome.com.