Tmn special edition 2018 1 3 18

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“In the End, we will remember not the words of our enemies,

Free - Take One Free - Take One but the silence of our friends.� - Martin Luther King, Jr. !VAILABLE AT .EWSSTANDS IN

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COMMEMORATIVE BLACK & CLARK EDITION

Metro News EBONY QUEENS COMMITMENT

926-8503 Fax$45.00 (903) 450-1397 1 Year Subscription $45.00 ar72)Subscription

Legacy continues for mother and daughter in more ways than one

Michelle Marva Johnson Miss FAMU 2017-18

By Cheryl Smith Texas Metro News

For decades the historic Ebony Magazine has featured Black college queens.

Clearly one of the most anticipated issues of the year, changes in the industry have had a serious impact.

In previous years, instead of a few select queens gracing the cover with all queens featured inside; cost-cutting measures have reduced the feature to only the top 10 queens as voted on through

each reigning beauty was elected by her peers and/or school officials to represent those standards for her institution of higher learning. Meet the Queens to find out more about the dynamic queens representing HBCUs nationwide and vote for your favorite. You are allowed to vote as many times for as many queens as you like. So keep coming back every day. Log on to www.ebony.com. Voting concludes on January 20, 2018 at 11:59 p.m.�

Texas Metro News does have its favorite-- Dallas’ own

Clients benefit as Linda Mitchell leads Black & Clark to new heights

By Norma Adams-Wade Contributor Friends who grew up with business juggernaut Linda Mitchell say she showed signs of her professional future as a child. They just did not know what those signs

social media.

Michelle Marva Johnson, Several schools are not Miss Florida A&M University represented and will not be (FAMU). voted on but on the pages Michelle, who is called “Marof Texas Metro News (TMN) va� on FAMU’s campus, hails we are featuring the entire from Dallas, TX where she atgroup who the 10 featured tended Newman Smith High queens will be chosen from.

School in Carrollton. She is TMN also continues to a senior, double majoring in speak out in support of the Business Administration and Black Press, so readers are Theatre & Performing Arts. encouraged to subscribe, Michelle is a member of the advertise and uplift those Beta Alpha Chapter of Alpha publications that are institu- Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. tions and provide balance to and FACES Modeling Troupe everyday coverInc. She is age. also a PresiRealizing that dential AmEbony has gone bassador, and through sevPeer Mentor eral changes with the goal and there are of excelling in a number of the Film & Enchallenges that tertainment hopefully the Industry as a new ownership Screenwriter. is addressing, Her parents one can’t forand I attendget what Eboed FAMU tony has been to gether and so many for so Vivian Bradley Johnson Dr. Vivian long.

Miss FAMU 1981-1982 Bradley JohnIn announcson served ing the competition, Ebony as vice president of the DFW wrote: “We’re excited to an- FAMU National Alumni Assonounce EBONY’s 2017-2018 ciation when I was president HBCU Campus Queens online of the chapter, in the late competition. Historically Black 1980s.

Colleges and Universities were The mother-daughter tradifounded to promote Black exSee EBONY, page 16 cellence and brilliance, and

In addition to casting your vote, TMN is urging you to subscribe and help Ebony to carry on in the rich tradition established by the incomparable John. H. Johnson.

We need Ebony Magazine!

See SPECIAL BLACK & CLARK TRIBUTE Inside she, too, did not understand traits about herself that gave

The owner, president and chief executive officer of

historic Black & Clark Funeral Home in Dallas looked back over her life recently during an IMessenger interview and marveled at the journey that brought her to this point -- sitting behind the Black & Clark CEO desk where – in See MITCHELL page 5

KJ may be off the air but still in our communities KJ Bland’s work in Dallas-Fort Worth area continues Texas Metro News

Mr. FAMU 2011-12

hints of her coming career, business savvy, and community service.

We’re Still Rollin’ Wit A Sista

Story and Photo

By Eva D. Coleman

Frederick Johnson (center)

meant.

The friends were not alone.

Mitchell said recently that

Single mothers uplifted.

Making a way for kids. Fashion handed down. Celebrity bowling champion. Not just a voice for the community, KJ “Midday� Bland has always been a doer of deeds with far reaching benefits to many within and well beyond her reach. She’s left her position as radio personality for Smooth R&B 105.7 FM to

pursue other that’s just how interests. it works in “Everything business. It’s has a reason, okay to agree a season, and to disagree.�

I just think For nearly with Service eight years Broadcasting, in her midI just know it’s day time slot a different seain the Dallas son now, and market, LouisI’m okay with ville, Kentucky that and I’m native Bland sure they’re has served KJ Bland okay with that,� in prior onBland said. air capacities in Louisville, The agreement for KJ Mid- Kentucky, Greenville, South day and the station to part Carolina and Greensboro, ways seems that simple.

North Carolina. She says she “It ultimately became a de- wishes Service Broadcasting cision where you couldn’t re- the best and expresses gratally come to an agreement,� itude for her initiation into Bland said. “Unfortunately the area.

“Moving to Dallas almost eight years ago was life-changing. Not only was it a different city‌I had never, ever visited Dallas, ever.

But from a radio standpoint, I just knew that that platform was gonna allow me to be exposed to a lot more, to be able to expose people to a lot more,� Bland said.

While her southern charm on the airwaves has permeated the masses, her wide-ranging mission of giving props and assistance, specifically to women and children, do not go unnoticed. Bland’s charity, The PINK Foundation - Poised to Inspire and Nurture our Kommunity, champions causes See KJ page 3

WOMAN OF THE YEAR Pastor Yvette Blair Lavallais!

Thanks for giving a voice to Clergy women who are being assaulted multiple times as the Church remains silent or protects the perpetrators!

#MeToo

Read the riveting accounting of how the United Methodist Church handled assault claims.

Texas Metro News May 31 and June 7, 2017 at www.issuu.com and see how Pastor Lavallais reclaimed her life!

Also check out thegatheringexperience.com

#Heavysigh Admittedly, 2017 was a challenging one for me.

To say I was shocked upon hearing of the passing of Mr. Dick Gregory would be an understatement. I’m still reeling from the news.

He was a fine man who I held in high esteem and I miss him dearly.

As each day passes I expect to get a call from him with his familiar greeting, “God Bless You!�

He was such a wise man who seemed to understand what life is really about.

He was a true friend. I awake daily wondering if he is really gone.

Then, I received word See SPECIAL, page 13

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KJ may be off the air, continued from front page through events and services, including her annual Mother’s Day Soiree that salutes women in the community.

Efforts like the Soiree, which is expanding to include events in both Dallas and her hometown of Louisville in 2018, seem to have been born from personal experiences.

“When my mother was raising us, she was a single parent and we saw her do it all.

She never complained about that…ever,” Bland said. “I think I draw my strength from her, but at the same time, I know how hard it is for a single mother to try to work and provide not only a roof but clothes, school clothes, Christmas stuff, Easter baskets, Easter bonnets, Easter clothes, still food on the table every day.

“So, I still want to do my part to help a single mother any way I can.”

Other PINK Foundation missions are to assist grandparents who are raising their grandchildren and to help children stay connected to parents who may be incarcerated.

“Not a lot of people know, but I am the adult child of an incarcerated parent so I know what it’s like,” Bland said. “I was blessed to have a car to go see my parent incarcerat-

ed but a lot of kids just don’t have that.”

Bland’s transportation plan is in the works to strengthen this often strained family dynamic.

“It’s important that kids still have that connection with their parent even though they’re incarcerated. So, I really want to put together a program that allows them to, one, be able to have a ride every week, and two, just around the holiday time to remind them that they’re not forgotten,” Bland said.

Breast cancer initiatives are also important in Bland’s charitable efforts. Since losing a nephew to epilepsy, those related causes have been added as well.

The expansion of KJ’s Kloset, an upscale clothing resale experience with the charitable component of providing women with attire to aid in their job search, is also top of mind for Bland. She plans to incorporate office parties and lunches, and also increase awareness through Sip and Shops within the brand.

Connecting with Bland socially through her podcasts, on Facebook with her continuation of Beauty Shop Talk and through a variety of hashtags like #MiddayMotivation, #KJsKitchen #TrinketsByKJ and more on Instagram

help others see the vastness of Midday Enterprises. Keeping up is the hard part. Her trinkets component takes orders and sells custom items that she physically creates by hand.

“Mentally, I have to allow myself only two days a week to do that,” Bland said. “So, Tuesdays and Thursdays are generally the days I set aside from 3:00 - 8:00 and I make blankets.”

Bland’s fleece throws came in handy as hurricane relief for recent Houston area evacuees. She shared her immediate thoughts to provide them to children who were uprooted from their homes.

“Just to make them feel comfortable in a place they have no knowledge of and they may be sitting there scared to death,” Bland said full of emotion. “I wanted that comfort blanket to really be comfort for them and really give them a sense of ‘Okay, for right now, it’s gone be okay.’”

Showing no signs of slowing down, Bland’s step aside from traditional radio allows for greater access.

“For me, the next level is being able to do things the way I want to do things that I feel are best for my career, while still being able to help people at the same time,” Bland said.

“I just feel like, moving for-

ward, I will be able to do a lot more for the community and not feel restricted in what I can do for the community.”

Bland’s life experiences keep coming full circle attributing to how she impacts the future. She shared an experience when her daughter was hospitalized as a young child and how it made her feel to have a volunteer come and read her favorite Dr. Seuss books.

Bland expressed joy as she mentioned now having the time and opportunity to volunteer at local hospitals. We laughed at the thought of her in uniform as she recalled being a candy striper in her youth.

“I remember even as a kid with that outfit on just loving the feeling of giving back… really not understanding what giving back meant at that age…I just knew that I loved it. Now, I really feel that is my calling,” Bland said.

During our conversation, we enjoyed personal favorites, both chai tea lattes. The mood. Sips tea. Bland’s passion for others is real, truly organic. There’s no backing down as she enters this new season on her own terms, and within range. Without the ability to disclose details of what’s in the works as far as being on-the-air, she men-

tioned with assurance that she’ll do radio again.

“I used to really love radio for the music. Now, it’s like I really love the feeling that people get when I share information, share what I consider a joke…some people laugh, some people don’t.

But just to share laughs and memories. That is what I love

about radio. And for that opportunity I will forever be grateful,” Bland said.

And for now, she’s not going anywhere. We need her to stick around to defend her Don’t Believe the Hype Celebrity Bowl-a-thon top celebrity female championship title.

“Dallas is my home. I’m staying. Y’all stuck with me!”

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JANUARY 3, 2017

TEXAS METRO NEWS

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Democrat for 68 District Court Judge th

Democrat for th 68 District Court Judge

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Mitchell focuses on service to Black and Clark clients, continued from front page

one of her familiar phrases -- the buck stops.

“Never in my wildest imagination would I have thought I’d end up owning a funeral home,” Mitchell said pensively. “It’s mind-boggling.”

Mitchell has covered much ground and survived hard-hitting business and personal blows on her way to this juncture. She has gained a reputation as a successful businesswoman with a social conscience, a no-nonsense executive who runs a tight ship, and a caring Christian who proudly credits her faith and spiritual lifestyle for her undisputed success so far.

But she makes it clear that the road ahead is challenging in order to accomplish the goals she has in mind to rebrand and take the 103-year-old Black & Clark institution to the next level.

And along the way, Mitchell is leading a crusade to preserve the strength and existence of independent, blackowned funeral homes in the Dallas area and Texas.

EXPANDING TO FAR NORTH DALLAS Part of her crusade involves opening a new market for an independent, black-owned funeral Home in far North Dallas. In the spring of 2017, Mitchell quietly opened Black & Clark Chapel at 14119 Montfort Dr., not far from the Galleria shopping mall, and plans a grand opening around the spring of 2018.

The funeral chapel is a new extension of the main funeral home about 20 miles away at 2517 E. Illinois Ave. in southwest Dallas’ Oak Cliff community.

The funeral chapel occupies a building that once was an edifice for a historic African-American church in far North Dallas -- Christian Chapel CME/White Rock Chapel Methodist Church – that was founded a year before Emancipation.

CHURCH AND COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIP The 155-year-old church is now Christian Chapel Temple of Faith and occupies a different edifice at 14120 Noel Road. The church is steeped in black history and says it was the first African-American church established in the far North Dallas area. Mitchell is a trustee at Temple of Faith, and Black & Clark is a community partner with the church, assisting with some community outreach ministries.

Mitchell said she sees the funeral chapel facilitating mutual benefits – providing funeral services for that community while helping sustain a historic independent, black-owned business by opening a new market.

Competition is stiff in southern Dallas and Oak Cliff that are saturated with funeral homes that serve African-Americans, she said. And she frets that an increasing number are being purchased by white-owned corporations that retain the original African-American staffs, giving the appearance of black ownership that, in fact, is shrinking. Lower pricing and rushed, shorter funeral services are robbing families of traditional, more caring attention, she said.

I don’t want to chase funerals,” Michell said. “I want to provide service..”

social security and veteran benefits from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. January 18, 2018 at Dunston’s Steak House, 5423 W. Lovers Lane in Dallas. Registration is required. Call 214-376-8297.

SEEKING HELP FROM OTHER BLACK CHURCHES Mitchell is seeking help from other black churches while on her mission to save independent, black-owned funeral homes and stop large corporations seeking to monopolize the black funeral home market.

In November, she attended a town hall meeting where prominent African-American ministers discussed economic development and the black church. From the audience, she stood and asked the group if they were aware of the unwelcome movement of large corporations seeking to buy up black funeral homes.

She summarized the issue and told them she would be contacting them to see if black churches will help her fight the encroachment. So far, one or two have offered encouragement as she continues her efforts, she said.

“We tackle this by talking about it,” she said later. “It’s time to start the conversation and make people aware.”

GROWING UP IN TAMPA, FLORIDA – SIGNS OF DESTINY It might sound too morbid to say death intrigued Mitchell early in her life. Better to say she never feared it and wondered why others did.

“I always wanted to own a funeral home since around the 10th grade,” Mitchell recalls. “I was fascinated with death but didn’t know why.”

Her childhood friend Francina Lewis, now a retired banker in Jacksonville, Florida, remembers early signs of Mitchell’s future. She and Mitchell said they just did not know what the signs meant.

“When Linda was bored in high school she would doodle,” Lewis recalled. “In the doodles she would always write, ‘The end of the road.’ When I would ask her what that meant, she said she didn’t know.”

“When we were seniors, she got a job in a pathology lab delivering body part specimens around the building,” Lewis said. “After she got into the funeral home business we realized: this is your destiny. It was like an epiphany.”

MAKING INROADS AFTER MOVING TO DALLAS Destiny began to manifest after Mitchell and her late, second husband moved to Dallas in 1977. She got jobs with insurance companies. He died in 1979 of a sudden heart attack that devastated Mitchell and took her through emotions that she said now help her empathize with grieving clients. Black & Clark did his service, then soon after allowed Mitchell office space for a pre-need funeral service she represented as Texas district manager. She also owns her own L. A. Mitchell Memorial Planning Service. She continued in the funeral business throughout the 1980s and ‘90s, then she said destiny moved her further along her still unknown journey.

DIVINE INTERVENTION?

AFTER CARE SERVICES That desire to nurture families during and after grieving led Mitchell to implement detailed aftercare services that she says distinguish Black & Clark.

These services include grief counseling and a series of seminars on wide-ranging topics including wills, power of attorney, social security, veterans’ benefits, and maintaining family records.

Mitchell said monthly sessions usually are held on the fourth Thursday, co-sponsored by Temple of Faith.“ This is my way of saying ‘I care,’ ” she said.

The next public session will discuss

Black & Clark business manager and Clark family member Otis Clark died in 1999 and Mitchell approached a crossroad. Always a passionate champion of black culture and heritage, she worried that the historic, independent, blackowned Black & Clark institution might be scooped up by a large corporation -- further depleting the once health stock of black-owned businesses that she knew existed before integration.

“It bothers me that we keep losing,” Mitchell said. “I just get so frustrated.”

She decided that against all odds, she would try to buy Black & Clark. She

made inquiries and set about to get funding.

Emma Lyons, who co-owns an insurance agency, said she met Mitchell as an adult on an insurance job in Dallas about 40 years ago and they became close friends. She helped Mitchell write a proposal for a $1.4 million loan that it would take to buy the business.

Lyons said Mitchell gave strict instructions that the proposal must tell the naked truth about Mitchell’s dismal personal finances at the time. But it also must stress her ability to run the company and her desire to preserve it as an independent, black-owned community treasure. Stunningly, the loan committee approved Mitchell.

“It was clear that was a gift from God because she qualified in her worst financial year,” Lyons recalled. “We now know it was the grace of God. It was meant for her to have it.”

Photos by Eva Coleman

THE BLACK & CLARK STAFF About a dozen employees comprise the Black & Clark staff. Soon after Mitchell purchased the funeral home, she allowed the main staff to acquire interest in the company: Emanuel Pruitt, managing funeral director who has been with the company more than 50 years; Gary Clark, a licensed funeral director who has been with the company about 40 years. Gary Clark is the son of the late Otis Clark and grandson of C. J. Clark, one of the company’s original owners; and funeral consultant Johnny Wilson, who has been with the company about 60 years. Others on the staff include Thomas J. Wattley Jr., a senior finance and marketing consultant.

Wattley says people quickly recognize Mitchell’s humanity behind her straight-forward business exterior.

Aside from the funeral business, she is fiercely devoted to young people, education, her faith, and moving the African-American community forward.

“You first have to respect her as an entrepreneur … (who is) taking care of her community,” Wattley said. “She’s hard-headed yet very caring, and loves her people. Working with her is like taking a class in African-Americans 101.”

Linda Mitchell outside of Oal Cliff location of Black & Clark Funeral Home

Benjamin MItchell, Family Services Counselor

AWARDS AND HONORS Mitchell majored in behavioral science and African-American studies at the University of South Florida in Tampa where she was among an early group of African-Americans who integrated the campus. She sharpened her knowledge of black culture and her spiritual growth. Her humanity, business savvy and faith have not gone unnoticed. Those components have brought many awards and honors. Among them are the Interdenominational Ministerial Alliance’s Business Award, 2017; a Dallas Black Chamber of Commerce Quest for Success Award, 2016; and the #1 Producer of the Year honor for 14 straight years from Homesteaders Life, a pre-need insurance firm.

Gary Clark, Funeral Director

FACING CHALLENGES LEADS TO TRIUMPH Mitchell says that the hard knocks of her life have helped her relate to the families she serves, and there have been many hard knocks.

“There’s very little anybody can talk about that I haven’t experienced,” said Mitchell, a divorcee with no children, and 20-year cancer survivor. She also has triumphed over domestic abuse in one of her three marriages, losing a brother in a fire and a husband to a heart attack, dyslexia and learning disability in elementary school, and financial troubles as she struggled early on to grow her businesses.

But she has triumphed. And she can say as the character Celie says in the book and Broadway play The Color Purple – “I’m here!”

THomas Wattley and Linda Mitchell share a light moment

Theresa Shelton, Personal Assistant to Linda Mitchell

Black & Clark

Funeral Home “Excellence is our tradition...

Service is our legacy” Linda Mitchell, CEO

2517 E Illinois Ave, Dallas, TX 75216

(214) 376-8297

Ermina (JoJo) Sunday, Office Administrator

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Editorial and Commentary A promise to you!

By Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson

ally.

Some of us lost loved ones. My youngest sister, Helen Willis Johnson, passed in November and the pain of her passing is carried in my soul.

I am certain that many of you lost people close to you. I extend my deepest condolences as you, too, mourn the passing of those who affected your lives.

As a nation we witnessed the departure from office of President Barack Obama, a visionary leader, respected the world over, who lifted us from financial ruin and ushered in years of prosperity and economic growth.

Sadly, President Obama, whose major legislative achievement,

A

new year has arrived and events that occurred in 2017 are behind us. Some of them were painful, politically and person-

the Affordable Care Act, provided health insur ance to millions of Americans who had not been able to afford it, was followed into office by President

Donald J. Trump.

It has been a turbulent time for our nation since January 20th when President Trump was inaugurated as the 45th president of the United States.

His rhetoric and his policies have harmed caring and progressive citizens in our country. He has withdrawn America from the Paris Agreement on Climate Change. He has attempted to neuter the Affordable Care Act. The President has opposed sensible trade agreements that were in the best interests of the American economy, and he has appointed radical conservatives to the federal courts.

We must not allow this Presi-

dent to take our country backwards.

We must continue to stand and rally voters to oppose draconian policies that only serve the wealthiest amongst us, such as the tax legislation signed into law just before Christmas.

Yes, it does appear bleak, but we must continue to stand tall and rise for goodness and greatness. This year must be our "finest hour."

I pledge to you that I will not bend nor will I break given the current morass that is Washington.

I shall continue to serve you and represent your interests with every bit of strength that God gives me.

That is my New Year's promise to you, and to your family.

The Death Angel Rides‌ QUIT PLAYIN’

By Vincent L. Hall

M

y Grandfather, the paternal one, not the preaching one, had a third grade education and the intellect of an East Coast scholar. He missed some grade school, all of high school, but was valedictorian in the school of hard knocks. Ed Hall was as perceptive and penetrating as any man you could meet. He was a walking dissertation on life, labor and “bigboned Black women.�

Papa Hall, akin to most pre-Civil Rights era Negroes, shared cultural wisdom and idioms that no other race of people would readily understand. Old Black wisdom was like Pig Latin‌It was contorted, coded and confounding to the untrained ear.

We were at a gambling shack on New Years’ eve in 1970 something.

The statute of limitations has run and that South Dallas neighborhood is in the full grasp of gentrification, so it’s ok to tell this story now.

Strategic silence was another one of Papa’s mantras; “Don’t let your two cent mouth get your million dollar assets in trouble.�

Anyway‌We were at the corner of South Blvd. and Parnell when a loudmouthed, socially uncircumcised heathen sauntered into the flop house. The table was newly-laden in green felt with a set of dice and a set of playing cards. There were 20 or so players casting lots on the shooter and on the side.

This brother, who seemingly came into the game from nowhere, was full of that oil (you can plug in whichever intoxicant you prefer because we couldn’t tell) and talking much trash.

This dude leaned and out, covering bets on both sides and instigating like Redd Foxx. Dude was winning like hell, but he had a nasty habit of taunting his victims on a personal level. The smokefilled room was a playpen for thick skinned hustlers, who were in no form demure or easily discomfited.

Mr. Big Mouth, whose government name shall not be printed, gave

clarity to a comedic warning circulated by Richard Pryor; “You can’t kick my ass and holler at me too!�

Mr. Big Mouth was obsessively and ostentatiously onerous.

Looking for answers as a 15-yearold, I drew close to Papa and whispered; “Pops, what’s up with this cat?� As quickly as I slid the .38 S&W snub nosed to my Papa, he pushed it back at me. Papa gave us one of those exclusively Black anecdotes: “Don’t worry son, he just got the death angel riding him.�

Two weeks later at the Sportsman’s Rec, a “billiards emporium� around the corner, we learned that misfortune paid Mr. Big Mouth a visit.

His demise caused me some reflection and uneasiness. How did Papa know that this imbecile was headed for destruction? Did I miss something? How could I master this level of discernment? Papa held court as I drove him home around 4:00 a.m. the next morning. “Son sometimes, when people are evil and know the difference between right and wrong, they begin to implode. Eventually it shows up in their behavior and in their interaction with others. When tragedy is near, they get a premonition and begin to act strange. Don’t fight with death angels; you don’t have

to‌just give them enough time and rope and they’ll hang themselves.�

I’ve watched the death angel ride a lot of people since then. 2017 has been my first opportunity to watch it in on Twitter. There’s been some really crazy behavior this year

and Papa’s wisdom has me convinced that the death angel is still riding.

Stay Woke!!!

Vincent L. Hall is an author, activist and award-winning journalist.

Faith, the Weapon of Choice Spiritually Speaking

by James A. Washington

I

heard Bishop T.D. Jakes of the Potters House in Dallas TX preach a sermon one night that really caught my attention.

He reminded those in the audience that most of the bible was written from a jail cell. I think his overall message had something to do with his prison outreach ministry, which I understand to be significant.

I was so struck, however, by the reality of God’s Word and direction coming from the deep faith of those imprisoned, that the concept has never left me.

What is it about being a believer, a walking talking believer that somehow frightens those in power, so much so, that a jail cell or worse is a reasonable solution to the imagined problem?

History suggests that professing one’s belief in Jesus Christ as Lord can literally be a death sentence.

The bible teaches us that eventually our belief will be put to the ultimate test.

Have you ever wondered why God’s teachings are so feared by those who believe in other religions?

I used to say Jesus’ message made so much sense that even if He didn’t exist, we should invent Him. Now that I’m saved, I guess you could say I know I’m a candidate for assassination.

My point, as I was being enlightened by Bishop Jakes’ reference, is that I don’t view myself as a threat to anyone based upon my belief in one God, the Holy Trinity and the truth of Jesus Christ. But the world in which I live does view me in this manner.

I suppose a larger issue ought to then be, have I done anything or said anything that should land me in jail, if jail is defined as that spiritual place that present day Sadducees

Do you know this man?

Texas METRO NEWS

Bishop T. D. Jakes and Pharisees want to send people like me?

If I haven’t said or done anything, then maybe I better get going, stir things up.

In their day, the apostles, Paul and others were indeed looked upon as threats to the establishment.

That meant governments and principalities, as well as the

church hierarchy.

If nothing else, I don’t think anyone would argue that on His worst day, Jesus was the quintessential revolutionary. It still amazes me how such principles of unconditional universal love for humankind got Him killed.

And then it always hits me that this kind of philosophy will ulti-

James

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mately attack and undermine entrenched institutionalized power of all kinds.

That’s when I realize that if you are a believer in Christ, you are most certainly a threat to man. Man craves power and Christianity abdicates all power to Jehovah.

We stand as representatives of that truth and stand trial everyday with the world as our judge and jury.

That explains that target on the backs of believers throughout history and should remind us all of the target on our own backs.

All I can encourage you to do in the face of all this is to stay the course and know our defense attorney is on the case 24/7.

The prosecuting attorney has already lost this case.

So when you’re alone in your cell remember, you have already won.

The battle is over. The verdict is in.

We won. May God bless and keep you always.

TEAM Eva Coleman Dorothy J. Gentry Vincent Hall Carlton McConnell Richard Alexander Moore Betheny Sargent Dr. Felicia N. Shepherd Dareia Tolbert Andrew Whigham III

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Stephen Edward Watts, II

Stephen Edward Watts, II was born July 21, 1959, in Dallas, TX. The third child of Nathaniel T. Watts, Jr., M.D., and Daisy Creighton Watts, after many years of battling kidney disease and other medical issues, Stephen passed away on Sunday, January 15, 2017.

Stephen was one of seven siblings. He attended St. Anthony Catholic School and graduated from Jesuit Preparatory High School in Dallas, where he played trumpet in the Jesuit Marching Band. He attended Morehouse College in Atlanta, GA. He began working for US Postal Service. In 1985, Stephen married Caroline Horton, and they had two children, Christina and Edward. Stephen was preceded in death by his father, N.T. Watts, Jr. He is survived by his daughter, Christina Ruth Watts; son, Edward Fritzgerald Watts and grandson, Brennan Hicks; his beloved mother, Daisy Watts; siblings, Gwendolyn Satterthwaite (Aaron), Nathaniel T. Watts, III, Michael C. Watts (Maria), David C. Watts (Marilyn), Joseph F. Watts (Jenelle) and Paul G. Watts; his uncle, Stephen Edward Watts, M.D., relatives and friends.

Phennye Henderson Phennye M. Henderson was born on October 15, 1932, in Arp, TX. She was one of 10 children born to the late Jesse E. Cole and Hattie Sullivan Cole. She accepted Christ at an early age at Cool Springs - Spring Chapel CME Church in Arp, TX. Phennye received her education from Arp Industrial High School. She received her Nursing Degree and worked as a Registered Nurse at both hospitals and private care, for a number of years. She loved to dress and look nice. She was a free spirit. She had a very special bond with one of her nieces, Mr. Lynda Carroll, which lasted until her passing. She leaves to cherish her memories, her sister, Cloteil R. Cole; brother, Jesse F. Cole; her grandson, Derek Davidson; and a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

Charlie Mae Brown Smith Charlie Mae Brown Smith was born on May 5, 1932, to the late Robert and Charline Brown in Fulshear, TX. She was the eldest of eight siblings. Charlie Mae united with Mt. Vernon Baptist Church at a very young age along with other family members. She later became a member of St. John Baptist Church. Charlie Mae received her education from A. W. Jackson School in Rosenberg, TX. She earned a bachelor’s degree from Prairie View A&M University in Hempstead, Texas. Later, she earned a post-graduate degree in Library Science from Texas Woman’s University in Denton, TX. She was employed with the DISD for over 40 years. She was affiliated with: Paul L. Dunbar Learning Center - named in her honor, Delta Sigma Theta - lifetime member, The Black Academy of Arts and Letters - board member, Duncanville Library Board - member and president, Prairie View A&M University Alumni Association. She was also a world traveler. On Friday, June 30, 2017, Charlie Mae Smith was called home. She leaves to cherish her memories one brother, Edward N. Brown Sr. (Dorothy) of Dallas; three sisters, Minnie Lee Brown of Rosenberg, Texas, Dr. Mary M. Brown of Houston, Texas, and Shirley J. Moffett of New York and Australia; sister-in-law, Judy Brown of Rosenberg, TX; and a host of other family members and friends.

Rose Giddings Rose Estell Jefferson-Giddings was born on November 10, 1923, to Mr. Earl Jefferson and Francis J. Thompson Jefferson in Groesbeck, TX. She later moved, along with her mother and father, to Bynum, TX. In 1944, she moved to Dallas, TX where she met and married Lofton Giddings, who preceded her in death. To this union, one daughter was born, LaKeisha Lashawn Giddings. She was past president of the C.W.I.A. (Christian Women in Action), and was with the fellowship for 27 years. She later moved and was co-founder of Trinity Bible Center. She leaves to cherish her memories her daughter, LaKeisha Giddings of Garland, TX; three grandsons, Dekeitheran (Ke-Ke), Lytidrion (Ty) and Emanuel Jr. (Man-Man); two great-granddaughters, Angel Roberson and Samiyah Edwards of Dallas, TX; one sister, Earlene Stevenson

of Oklahoma City, OK; and a host of extended children, nieces, nephews, loved ones and friends.

Wilhelmina Alvera HawkinsGreen Wilhelmina Alvera Hawkins-Green was born to the parentage of the late Roy Hawkins and Florence Jordan on April 20, 1925, in Jefferson, TX. She attended Prairie View A&M University before moving to Dallas to care for her mother.

It was during this time she met, dated, and later married the late Reverend Willie Edward Green. To this union three children were born. A master seamstress, she previously worked for Nardis of Dallas before committing to employment with Texas Instruments of Dallas. She united with Porter Temple CME Church of Dallas. Preceding her in death were her husband, Willie Edward Green; brother, Willie Doris Hawkins; and first child, Fredrick Lawrence Green. She leaves to cherish her life works, a daughter, Ruth Green-Lipscomb (Kenneth); son, Ralph T. Green; and daughter-in-law, Patricia Green. Other relatives include her grandchildren, Lisa, Lamont, Fredrick II, Darrya, Raphaelle, Kim, and Ryan; nephews, Ronald and Terry; nieces, Vivian and Paula; three great-grandchildren; one great-great-grandchild; and a host of other relatives and friends.

Elijah Walker On December 13, 1936, Elijah Walker (affectionately known as “Brother”) was born to Elijah Walker, Sr., and Alice Harper (Edwards). He was baptized at an early age at Mt. Carmel Church in Dallas, TX. Elijah loved the Lord.

He was a faithful and active member of Concord Church. Educated in Dallas schools, he attended Phyllis Wheatley Elementary School and Lincoln High School, where he was a proud member of the Lincoln Tigers football and track team. He attended Wiley College on a track scholarship. Elijah married Bobbie Johnson and to this union four children were born; he later had an additional son.

Elijah spent most of his adult years in Los Angeles, California, later returning to Dallas. He enjoyed his retired life after 19 years of service to the Dallas County Juvenile Department - Letot Center. Elijah was an avid golfer.

He leaves to cherish his memories: three daughters, Sheila Fucuals (Carlton), Janice Walker and Sherry Burrell (Timmy); two sons, Uhl Walker (Loretta) and ECrandle Walker; four grandsons; eight great-grandchildren; a sister, Maxine Banks; a special friend of 21 years, Cynthia Cass; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives, and friends.

Sammy Jewel Pearson Sr Family Man, Consummate Entrepreneur, Dedicated Man of God are just a few words to describe Sammy Jewel Pearson Sr. who transitioned on Tuesday, September 26 at his home of 50 years. He was born in Avinger, Tx and moved to Dallas in 1961 after graduating from Traylor High School in Hughes Springs, Tx. He married Sarah Jeanette Stanton, on April 8, 1964. He went to work for Ben E. Keith in 1968. He ended up owning several businesses including a cab company, body shop, feed store and car lot. In the early 70’s he formed a band called Sammy and the Jumping Jacks, where he played drums. While he loved music, he was still a country boy at heart and his farm gave him much joy. A member of Cedar Crest Cathedral CME for over 40 years., he leaves to cherish his memory a loving and faithful wife of 53 years, Sarah J Pearson; two daughters, Rapunzel Powell and Ramona Luster; one son Sammy J. Pearson Jr (Tamika) all of Dallas, TX; one sister, Lessie B Lyons of Chicago, IL; nine grandchildren; three God grandchildren; 10 great-grandchildren, along with a host of nieces, nephews and cousins; a special daughter and sons, Yvette Jeffries (Freeman), Darryl Locke and Chauncey Knight.

Irene (Williams) Henderson Irene (Williams) Henderson was born to the parentage of George Williams, Sr., and Frances Cotton on February 5, 1929, in Homer, LA.

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The family’s moved to Dallas when Irene was nine months of age. She attended B.F. Darrell Elementary and Booker T. Washington. After graduation from high school, she attended Wiley College in Marshall, Texas, where she was the drum majorette her freshman year. She became a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc. in November 1949 and graduated in 1951 with a BS degree in secondary education. On June 27, 1953 she was united in holy matrimony to Floyd E. Henderson in Dallas, TX at the Greater New Zion Baptist Church under the pastorage of Rev. A.V. Voice. From this union, two sons were born: Kenneth E. and Kevin E. Henderson. Irene entered into eternal life on August 13, 2017. She is preceded in death by her parents, two sisters, Gertha Harrison and Helen Francis Menafee and two brothers, T.R. Williams and Aster Williams. She leaves to cherish fond memories, two sons, Kenneth Henderson of Dallas, Texas, and Kevin Henderson and daughter-in-law, Kristine, of Crowley, Texas, two grandsons, Samuel and Daniel of Crowley, TX; brother, George Williams Jr. of Dallas, TX and a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

Brenda L. Traylor Brenda L. Traylor was born on November 28, 1959 in Dallas, Texas. She was raised in North Dallas and earned her diploma from Hillcrest High School and attended El Centro College. She became a member at Macedonia Baptist Church then later joined Central Church Christ.

She was a faithful worker at Golden Acres Living and Rehabilitation for many years and with C.C. Young Retirement Home in Dallas for 19 years.

She leaves to cherish her memory: husband, Gordon Mathis; eight children, Laquincy, Davoddrick, Nakesha, Gordon, Jennifer (Raymond), Laquita, Emanuel (Sharon), and Tyneisha Traylor; mother, Claudia Coleman; sister, Zereata (Tony) Traylor-Hickerson; three brothers, Emanuel L. Traylor Jr, Charles and Lawrence Blanks; 23 grandkids; three great-grandkids; step daughter, Traci Thomas: four brothers-in-law, Carl, Ronald, Duncan and Donald; one sister-in-law, Pamela Mathis; two nephews, Charles and Dante Traylor; one niece, Shenikwa; four maternal aunts; other son, Keith (Kathy) Hoffman and their children, Emerald and Diamond; other daughter, Lakeshea (Roderick) Washington and their kids, Teara, Riyah and Deneatra Reddic; and a special family member, Valencia Pendleton; her best friend, Leona Crenshaw; and a host of other family and friends.

Ollie V. Smith Waddleton Ollie V. Smith Waddleton was the only child born to Ima Lee Brookins and Jim Cumming. Velma was born on August 23, 1935 in Eustace (Big Rock) Van Zandt County, TX. After graduating from St. Paul High School she moved to Dallas and attended Madame Coleman Cosmetology School. She was a stylist for a few years and after meeting and marrying Elastus Waddleton, she became a housewife. Velma and Elastus had eight children and enjoyed 61 years of marriage. After her children were school age Velma went to work for the DISD, and retired after 30 years of service. Velma united with Porter CME Temple Methodist Church and was a member for 50 years. Velma moved her membership to Cedar Crest CME Church. Velma loved to sing. She became a member of the South Dallas Concert Choir that performed all over Dallas. Her daughter nicknamed her “Whitney.” Velma leaves to cherish her wonderful life and memories, four sons, Gregory (Monique), Carey (Rosa), Donald and Ronald; one daughter, Kim (Tommy); grandchildren, Kristen, Gregory Jr., Darrin (Tela), Darrell, Aaron and Nate (the great) Nathaniel; one great-grandchild, Jalen; God grandchild, Michale Austin; and numerous cousins, nephews and nieces.

Lavert Williams Lavert Williams was born April 6, 1923 to Leola and Elihue Williams, Sr. (both of whom preceded him in death) in Marshall, TX. Lavert enlisted with the United States Army in March 1944 and was discharged in May 1946. He later moved to Dallas, where he met and married Catherine Pitts on March 12, 1961.

They were members of Munger Avenue Baptist Church for many years. He went to World Series baseball games, football games, basketball games, races at Louisiana Downs, took a trip to Jamaica, and his last trip was to the Negro Baseball Museum in Branson, Missouri. His favorite pastime was playing dominoes. He was employed as a bartender for over 30 years, retiring from the Dallas Country Club (Lakewood). After the death of his wife in March of 2013, he united with the North Park Baptist Church. On July 5, 2017, Lavert left to cherish his memories: 10 nephews - Harold Williams, Jr., Dennis Strong, Michael Davis, Earnest Lane, Carl Jacob, Jr., Kenneth Williams, Elihue Williams

III, Jeffrey Williams, Jimmy Williams, and Eddie Williams; seven nieces - Shirley Mann, Frankie Jean Jackson, Patricia Williams, Jeannie Williams, Kresha Lane, Kim Bazile, and Carla Jacobs; two special cousins, Lucille Garrett, and Tina Wilson.

Willie Ruth Carter Willie Ruth Carter of Corsicana, TX was born June 28, 1944 in Oklahoma City, OK and peacefully transitioned on her 73rd birthday, June 28, 2017.

She is the eldest of six children born to Willie Robert and Ruby Leonard (both deceased). Their grandmother, Mrs. Arneata Leonard of Corsicana, raised the children because both parents died at an early age. Willie Ruth attended G. W. Jackson High School and during the course of her career received Professional Development certificates and Certifications in the health field.

To the union of Willie Ruth and Luster E. Brown (preceded in death), three children were born - Nichelle, Tyrone and Lester. Willie Ruth recently received the “In Grateful Appreciation Award” for 20 years of outstanding service from the Heritage Oaks Retirement Village. She also worked as a private health caregiver for over 10 years. Those who will love and cherish her memories forever and always: Daughter – Nichelle Crenshaw of Cedar Hill, TX, sons - Tyrone Leonard (Lakresha), of DeSoto, TX, Lester Leonard (Catrinna) of Plano, TX; step children – Priscilla Johnson of DeSoto, TX, Anna Brown of DeSoto, TX, Dwayne Brown (Loretta) of Mesquite, TX, Anthony Brown (Alice) of Waco, TX, Lawrence Brown (Brenda) of Corsicana, TX, David Coleman of Corsicana, TX, and a host of great–grandchildren, and other loving relatives, long time friends, and co-workers.

Alice Dabbs Alice Dabbs was born January 24, 1928, in Denison, TX, to George Cornell and Inez Stevenson. She attended Denison’s only black church with her g randmot her, Artie Nelson. She graduated from Denison High School, moved to Dallas in 1945, worked odd jobs and working for the likes of Fat’s Domino, Jr. Walker, and Booker T. Washington. She also worked as a school cook for DISD and for the first black-owned cab company in Dallas. Mrs. Dabbs’s last job was working for Lee Data Mailing Center. She married a musician, and to this union three children were born: Gloria McDonald, Emma Sample (Charles) and Louella Edwards, all of Dallas. She had four children during her second marriage: Clinton Jones, Danny Jones (Houston), Tom Jones (Annette) and Linda Jones. In 1982 she married Robert Dabbs, who preceded her in death. She leaves to cherish her memories, seven and a half children, 21 grandchildren (two preceded her in death), 20 great-grandchildren, and 20 great-great-grandchildren, three brothers, James Cornell of Waco, TX, Agustus Robinson of Garland, TX (Thomas Jr. preceded her in death), and one sister, Artie McGee of Phoenix, AZ.

James Edgar Allen James Edgar Allen was born on March 15, 1932 in Dallas, TX to the late Elmore Allen and Bessie Miller, and raised by the late Leola Brown Allen. He received his formal education in the Dallas Public Schools attending, J.W. Ray Elementary, B.F. Darrell Middle School and Booker T. Washington High School. Soon thereafter he was drafted into the US Army until his discharge in 1954. He became a skycap for Love Field Airport where he retired after many years of service. He attended Munger Avenue Baptist Church. He united in marriage to the former Pattie Lorraine Williams. One of his favorite things was dancing, listening to music especially jazz. He was an avid golfer.

James transitioned peacefully at his home on May 20, 2017. He is preceded in death by two sisters and four brothers. He leaves to cherish his memory a loving and devoted wife of 21 years Pattie L. Allen, two daughters, Patricia Allen Drawhorn and, Shelia Walker (Eric), one granddaughter, Djuana L. Compton, two grandson, Kevin D. Drawhorn and Dwight Turner, one great grandson, Devin D. Compton, Special friend, Gladys Harris, one brother, Shelby Allen, two sisters, Celestine ‘Pinkie’ and Earline Allen, and his loving companion that would always lend a listening ear, ‘Boston’.

Vera Lee Williams Vera Lee Williams was born on August 3, 1930, to the parentage of Florence

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and Lester Taylor in Baytown, TX. She passed away on June 7, 2017. She was preceded in death by her husband of 43 years, Irvin Williams, Jr.; her parents, two sisters; and two brothers. Vera attended Baytown public schools. She was a graduate of Wiley College in Marshall, TX and received her master’s degree from Texas Woman’s University in Denton, TX. She was a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. Vera was an early childhood educator and retired as director of the child development program at Martin Luther King Center. She is survived by her brother, George A. Taylor (Sandra) of Houston, Texas; nephews, Allen Taylor (Consuela) of Missouri City, Texas, Spencer Taylor (Janita) of Marshall, Texas, Penny Whitsey (Charles) of Baytown, Texas, and Raymond Taylor (Susan) of Crosby, Texas; brother-in-law, Joe Williams (Eva) of Dallas, Texas; along with many nieces, nephews, cousins, devoted caretakers and friends.

Loel Lonell Booker Loel Lonell Booker passed away peacefully, surrounded by family on March 31, 2017, at Harbor Hospice in Dallas, TX. He was born in Dallas on September 26, 1935, to Bennie “Lucille” and Willie Lee Booker, the third of seven children. He grew up in South Dallas and attended Lincoln High School. After he graduated high school in 1955, he attended Howard University.

He entered into the Army in 1958. After his service he worked at the US Postal Service for almost 36 years until he retired in 1993. He married Ardell Fairfax in 1961 and enjoyed their marriage until her death in 2000. While attending the Lincoln High School Reunion in Dallas, Lonell connected with his classmate Irma Frank. They were married in 2002 and they happily resettled in Dallas for the past 15 years until he transitioned.

He became a member of Oak Cliff Bible Fellowship in 2006. He enjoyed watching and playing golf. During football season, he could always be found watching his beloved Washington Redskins. He is remembered with love by his children, Lynell Booker-Marsh, Cedric Frank, Stefanie Booker Atchison, Thomas Frank, Steven (Toni) Booker and Leslie (Marvin) Middleton, his sister Betty Page, his brothers Richard Booker, Paul Wayne (Gloria) Childs, James (Yvonne) Childs, his brother-in-law Major Anderson II, 16 grandchildren, 12 great-grandchildren and a host of loving nephews, nieces, blended family, classmates and friends.

Bobbie Bolds Lander Bobbie Bolds Lander was born in Menlo, GA on April 16, 1925, the youngest of 13 children, the daughter of William F. Bolds and Rosa Lee Covington (Bolds).

She was raised on the farm in Menlo until World War II brought her, at the age of 18 years, to Washington, DC, where she worked for the Department of the Navy. She met and married Fred L. Lander, III, in 1964, who was then an aspiring graduate of Howard University Law School. In marrying, she took on the responsibility of raising Fred’s two young sons, Fred Leonard Lander, IV (now known as Leonard) and C. Victor Lander.

Bobbie always said that raising Leonard and Victor was the most important thing she could have done with her life, and that she did not have two step-sons – she just had two sons who had two mothers.

The family moved to Dallas, TX in 1972.

Bobbie was an active member of the New Home Baptist Church for well over 40 years until her health failed. She was a life member of the National Council of Negro Women (NCNW), Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc, the Links, Incorporated, and the Dallas Association of Bench and Bar Spouses (affiliate of the J. L. Turner Legal Association). As a member of Bench and Bar Spouses, she, along with Mrs. Barbara Steele, the late Judge Cleo Steele, and her husband, Fred, formed the C. A.W. Clark Legal Clinic, a monthly legal clinic bringing lawyers and Judges to the people they serve, to give legal advice to the community. In 1996, at the age of 72 years, Bobbie finally achieved what she had promised her father long before, and graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree from Dallas Baptist University, one of the oldest students to ever graduate from that University. While at Dallas Baptist, she became a member of Delta Sigma Theta, Inc. She is survived by her sons, Leonard Lander and C. Victor Lander; by her nephew, Clyde W. Bolds (Gloria), of Atlanta, Georgia; by her niece, Janice Billingslea of Atlanta, Georgia; and

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of the Bolds family and friends (including her loving Goddaughter, Cheryl Goode).

Sonja O. Hicks Sonja O. Hicks, a devoted mother, sister, niece, cousin and friend entered into rest on Februar y 17, 2017 at the end of a long illness.

She was best known for her organizational and accounting skills, volunteering and working with her son’s baseball teams. Sonja was born the fourth child and third daughter of the late Willie A., Sr. and Mary A. Hicks, on May 4, 1969 in Dallas, TX. She graduated from J.N. Ervin, Skyline High School and received a Bachelor of Science at the University of North Texas and a Master of Science at Texas A & M Commerce. After working at DART and Coca Cola Inc., she spent her last 27 years at Sabre as an accountant. She left to celebrate her life, two sons, Ryland and Reid Ricard of Arlington; two sisters, Mary E. Hunt (William) of Lewisville and Charlotte Hicks Todd (Gregory L.) of Arlington; one brother, Willie A. Hicks, Jr. (Kristi) of Houston; four nephews, William J. Hunt III of Lewisville, Jermaine A. Hunt of Brooklyn; Avanti D. Hicks and Kaden J. Hicks of Houston; great-neice, Hailey Hicks of Houston; great-nephew, Ace B. Hunt of Brooklyn; and a host of God children, cousins, other relatives, close friends and co-workers.

Mr. Willie P. Porch Mr. Willie P. Porch, affectionately called “Pops,” was born on May 31, 1925 in Sayre, Alabama to Will and Maggie Porch, he had two sisters, Annie L. Nichols and Lula B. Mitchell whom all preceded him in death. Mr. Porch was educated at Hooper City High School in Alabama, and later graduated from Tuskegee Institute. After graduation, he enlisted into the United States Air Force. He married Ruby L. Blanton on February 12, 1967. Later Mr. Porch retired from the Air Force after successfully completing 20 years of service. On February 23, 2017 he left to cherish his memories Shorunda and Christopher who were reared by Willie and Ruby Porch. Two nieces, Clarissa Bluiett, Minneapolis, MN, Billie Jean Cunningham, Birmingham, AL, a host of great nieces, nephews and cousins; Ms. Narcissus Noriega, his Caregiver and friend, who cared for his physical and spiritual needs until the God called him home. Special thanks to Mrs. Exzonia Alexander-Spencer whose father was a longtime friend to Mr. Porch, to the doctors and staff of the VA Hospital, and to the Palliative Care Unit, Dr. Polanco and team members.

Vancie Juanita Brown Vanc i e J u a n i ta Brown was born in Calvert, Texas, to the parentage of Willie Lee Banks and Imogene Robertson on January 3, 1940. She was reared in Palestine, TX, where she attended A.M. Story and received her GED from El Centro College in Dallas, TX. Vancie Juanita was united in holy matrimony with Jessie Ray Brown; to that union no children were born. She did contract cleaning for Cosmopolitan Maid Services for over 18 years and became a very good friend and confidant to the owner and special friend, Tammy Dietzman. She was employed there until the onset of her illness. After traveling all over the world, she settled in Dallas, TX, where she joined Greater New Zion Church. She leaves to cherish fond memories, one son, Richard Thompson; two daughters, Sebastina Jones and Demetria Thompson; adopted son, Ervin Mathis (Jael); grandchildren, Dominic Thompson, Kamilah Thompson, Jessica Thompson, Akila Jones, Caleah Jones, Kimesha Paramore, Daytonia Sharper, and Shree Rabb; sister-in-law and friend, Bernice Banks; and her clan, Brother Al Mathis; sisters-in-law, Frances Johnson, Joyce Thompson and Dorothy Wilson; longtime special friends, Vera Byrd, Dearlene Robertson, Maggie D. Marshall and Josie Drake; 18 great-grandchildren; five great-great-grandchildren; and let’s not leave out “Them Taylor Kids”, and a host of other relatives and friends. A special thanks to her caregiving friends, Monique, LaKitha and Lesha.

Bettie Ruth Chambers Brown Bettie Ruth Chambers Brown began her life socially and spiritually on December 15, 1936.

Born to the p are nt age

of Johnnie Chambers and Lurlee Lane Chambers in Mansfield, LA. Bettie accepted Christ and an early age and joined the Corinth Baptist Church. She joined the Greater St. James Baptist Church and later united with the Allen Chapel Baptist Church under the leadership of Pastor Levi Jones. Bettie graduated from DeSoto Parish Training School in 1955 and she furthered her education attending Grambling State University. In 1960 she moved to Dallas, TX. Bettie met and united in holy matrimony to R.C. Brown and to this union three children were born, Robert Charles, Jacqueline and Gwendolyn Brown. In 1967 she started working at Texas Instruments where she retired after 23 years of service. Keeping active she started working at Foley’s (Macys) Department Store. She is preceded in death by her husband, son, and her parents. The celebration of her life and legacy continues with her two daughters Jacqueline Grigsby and Gwendolyn Brown, three grandchildren, Gweniqua Brown, Jasmine Grigsby and Kendrick Brown, one great grandson, Damon Thomas Jr. and a host of other relatives and friends.

Dorothy Curry In Avalon, TX on July 11, 1925 a little baby girl came into this world. Her parents were Sam Sneed and the former Annie Mae Louder.

Her name was Dorothy Mae Sneed. Miss Sneed lived her early years between Avalon and Italy, TX but moved to Dallas for her adult years. She lived with her aunt, Ardella Carter. Shortly thereafter, she met Robert E. Curry. The two married December 24, 1953. The two also became prominent members of the Good Street Baptist Church. God blessed Robert and Dorothy Curry with their only son, Myron, September 6, 1963. While she was active with her church, she became more active, working with the youth and various other auxiliaries. On August 12, 2015, Mrs. Curry lost her husband of 62 years, Robert. She chose to stay close to her home. In 2017, Mrs. Curry developed an infection resulting from pressure points on her hip and heels. The infection proved to be her greatest battle. The Lord relieved her of her agony, July 2, 2017, nine days shy of her 92nd birthday.

Dorothy Mae Sneed Curry leaves behind Myron and his wife Maudia and a host of relatives, friends and acquaintances.

Alvin Gene Benson Jr. Loving Son, Man of God, are just a few words that describe Alvin Gene Benson Jr. who was called home on Tuesday, July 4, in Richardson, TX. He was 31 years old.

Alvin was born in Dallas, TX on March 8, 1986. He leaves to cherish his memory, his mother Janice (Alfred) Christopher; his father Alvin (Lynn) Benson Sr.; fiance, Ie'Tierre Hamilton, five stepchildren; Terione Taylor, Iyaunna Okray, IeRaiya Watkins, Ayden Watkins, Autumn Watkins; ex-wife, Amber Benson; daughter Rhianna Sherman; five sisters - Crystal Simpson, Brittney Benson, Lakisha Anderson, Brittany Coleman and Ashley Coleman; one brother - Travis Anderson; special cousins, seven amigos, Rodney Price, Reginald Price, Kenon Walker, Sheree Holden, Lakeisha Murray, and Berry Johnson; grandmothers - Mary Hunt, Edith Christopher, Nellie Benson; Grandfather -James Benson preceding him in death; grandfathers, James Hunt and Curtis Ray Christopher; and a host of aunts, uncles, cousins, other relatives and all his friends. He attended ITT Tech University. Alvin graduated from Cedar Hill High School Class of 2004. He was baptized at an early age and his church home was Agape International Fellowship Church, Phillip C. Murray Jr., Pastor (his cuz). Alvin was an entertainer; comedian, dancer, singer and rapper.

Roger Lee Jones, 68 Roger Lee Jones, 68, was the sixth child of John L Jones and Thelma S. Jones born on August 15, 1948. He was raised in the community of Joppa in Dallas, TX. He graduated from John F. Kennedy Wilmer Hutchins High School and later attended the University of Texas at Arlington where he earned a BA degree in History in 1970 and a MA degree in Urban Affairs in 1973. He worked for the cities of Arlington and Fort Worth in the department of city planning. He later worked for Neighborhood Housing Services of Dallas. He began to work for the Developmental Training Institute in Baltimore, MD. In this position, he traveled to 44 states providing various types of training to private and government agencies. He spent over 10 years in this role, and retired early. He later decided to go back to work as a consultant for a longtime colleague. He worked with Community Development Services until the beginning of 2016. Roger peacefully transitioned Monday, January 23, 2017. Left to cherish his memory are his daughter, Michelle Oliver of Spring, TX; brother, Bobby E. Jones, Sr

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of Dallas, TX; sister Dorothy L. Watts of Dallas, TX and a host of nieces, nephews, and other family and friends.

great nephew and niece Julia L. Brown and Jace A. L. Kelley and a host of cousins, relatives and friends.

Melissa L. Kelly

Demotis Lillard

Melissa L. Kelly was born to the p are nt a ge of Brad Kelly and Caroline Garrett on Februar y 10, 1928, in Mineola, TX. She was affiliated with Willow Grove Baptist Church at an early age. She united in holy matrimony to Floyd Wright. She was preceded in death by five siblings, Rose Bell Wilson, Virgina D. Wilson, Johnnie Mae Thompson, Willie Carol Willis, and James Kelly. She leaves to cherish her memories, one brother, Rev. Adolphus A. Maddox (Carolyn); three grandchildren; a host of great-grandchildren; and nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

Demotis Lillard, departed this life on September 25, 2017 at Methodist Dallas Hospital. Demotis entered this life as the apple of his mother’s eye, while being raised by his step-father, Willie Spearman Sr. He grew up in Dallas, TX attending South Oak Cliff High School. He accepted Christ at an early age, while his career path led him to become an electrician, working for years with Rick Electrical Service Company.

He loved family outings, family gatherings, and time with the “crew.” Demotis is preceded in death by his step-father Willie Spearman Sr, his mother Addie Jewel Winn Spearman, and his favorite aunt Eloise Odell Winn. He leaves to mourn his loss, his Louisiana family, his biological brothers; Keith Spearman, Willie Spearman (Tammi), his aunts, Ivy Butcher of Dallas, TX and Sarah June.

Harold Boyd, Sr. Harold Boyd, Sr. was born on May 14, 1913 in Dallas, TX. He was one of 14 children born to Rev. Sam Houston and Viola Boyd. At the age of 103 he was the longest surviving sibling. He transitioned on February 16, 2017.Mr. Boyd was educated in the Dallas Public Schools. His parents and siblings joined New Hope Baptist Church in Dallas. The family later united with the Munger Avenue Baptist Church under the leadership of the Rev. Bernard O. Byrd. Harold and Jessie Lee Boyd were married in 1945, and were together until her death in 2004. To this union seven children were born. Mr. Boyd was a self-employed house painter, contractor and entrepreneur. He also worked for Fox & Jacobs Home Builders and Horn-Williams Ford. He retired from the Dallas Housing Authority. He is survived by the following: Irma Boyd (Vernon Hooper), Linda B. Williams, Mary Spencer, Harold Boyd, Jr., Carole Wright and Herbert Boyd (Johnetta) and DeVonna Baggett (Eric). He also leaves to cherish his memories several grandchildren, many great grandchildren, and great- great grandchildren.

Rev. Michael King Rev. Michael King was born October 4, 1958 in Dallas, TX to the late John Wesley and the late Ida Jean King. In 1980, Michael accepted Jesus Christ and soon thereafter answered the call in ministry of spreading God's Word. Michael was happily married to Denise Dunn King for 28 years until his earthly departure. God blessed him to co-minister with his wife, along with Christopher & Brian; as his health began to decline. Michael received his pastoral training under the leadership of the late Dr. E. K. Bailey at Concord Missionary Baptist Church in Dallas, TX and he went on to serve as an Assistant Pastor at Frazier Berean Baptist Church in Dallas, TX. Michael continued to carry out the Lord's calling on his life as the Pastor of New Galilee Baptist Church in Dallas, TX for 14 years. He devoted his time to his family, his church, and his vocation at NCH Corporation where he was employed for 25 years. Michael is survived by his loving and faithful wife, Denise King; his aunt, Merdell Brockington; siblings, Belinda (Michael), Toyce, Robert, and John Jr.; sons, Michael (Ginelle), Jamari, Christopher (Shondrieka), and Brian; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and grandchildren.

Cecil Maurice Hurd Cecil was the first of four sons born to Lafayette Cecil Hurd (deceased) and Helen Emory Hurd of Dallas, TX. In his early years, Cecil attended Mayo Kindergarten, under Principal Mrs. T.E. Crump, Administrator and Mrs. Minnie Nelson-Metoyer as well as Frederick Douglas School. He also attended St. Mary of Carmel School and later Bishop Dunn and South Oak Cliff High Schools, where he graduated in 1973. He attended Texas Southern University in Houston, TX and joined Groove Phi Groove Fraternity and the Ocean of Soul Marching Band. Cecil was raised in Salem Institutional Baptist Church. He was also confirmed with St. James Catholic Church.

In 2015, Cecil became a member of Oak Cliff Bible Fellowship. He was employed with CMS Hartzell Manufacturing services as Quality Assurance manager and was a licensed professional realtor with Century 21, Judge Fite Company. He is survived by his mother Helen M. Hurd, three brothers Charlie B. Hurd, Reginald V. Hurd and William S. Hurd (Rochelle), his devoted children Shaquan Hurd, Shiesha McGue, Sam Smith and Roy Smith; his grandchildren Andreya Hurd, Skylar Hurd, Shaquan Hurd, II and Malik McGue; his loving nephews and nieces Jasmine L. Kelley (Kenneth), Erin L. Martin, Paige A.M. Hurd and Bertis L. Hurd;

Ira Odell Murphy Ira Odell Murphy was born on November 11, 1982 to Eunice Vanette Murphy in Dallas, TX in a bedroom in his grandm o t h e r ’s house and was named after the doctor that delivered him. He graduated from Justin Ford Kimball High School in Dallas, TX. Ira had a kind heart and was willing to help anyone. Ira entered into eternal rest on January 11, 2017. He is preceded in death by his mother, Eunice Vanette Murphy; grandfather, Vandy Murphy Sr;. and cousin, Byron Norton.

He leaves to cherish his memory: grandmother, Lula Murphy; aunt, Vicky Norton; uncle, Vandy Murphy Jr.; cousins, Lisa Hall (Nick), Vandy Murphy II, Jyron, Lauryn and Nickolos II; and a host of other relatives and friends.

Calvert Charles Sims Calvert Charles Sims was born September 17, 1940, in Dallas, TX, to Rev. Calvert Sims and Inez M. Greene Sims.

Charles accepted Christ at an early age at the Pages Temple Church of God in Christ. He entered into eternal rest on September 11, 2017. As a child, Charles, who was lovingly known as “Bubba” was crowned “king” of J. W. Ray Elementary School (DISD) when he was in third grade. At James Madison High School, he excelled in art, served as student body president, was a standout running back for the Trojan football team, and a cadet with the JROTC program. Upon graduating in 1958, Charles and his high school sweetheart Earnestine Marie Hall married and moved to Los Angeles to study architectural drafting and design at UCLA. He went on to launch a career as a commercial artist and architect. He founded Info-Mat Bazaar, which he served as the publisher and art director. Charles is survived by his only child, Terence D. Sims of Lincoln, CA; grandson Sgt. USMC Special Forces MARSOC Raider, Michael J. Sims of San Diego, CA; granddaughters Jessica, Erica and Monica Sims of Lincoln, CA; and great grandchildren Jordan and Isabelle Sims of San Diego, CA. Also left to cherish his memories are sisters Sylvia Wayne of Dallas, Gayle King (James) of DeSoto, Carolyn Woods (Benjamin, Jr.) of DeSoto; nephews Robert G. Wayne, Jr. (Columbia, SC), Benjamin Woods, III (Imah) of Atlanta, GA; nieces Carol Jackson (Edward) of Waldorf, MD, Trecia King of DeSoto, Michele King of DeSoto, Micheon Brackens (Andre’) of McKinney, Bridget Lewis (Reginald) of Arlington, Geli Brown of DeSoto, Chelse’ Woods of DeSoto, and a host of nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.

Dorothy “Dot” Sims Dorothy “Dot” Sims was born to the late Mr. and Mrs. Tommy Haire on December 21, 1945, in Douglassville, TX. She affiliated with Mt. Zion Baptist Church at an early age. She was the Mother of The Rock of Salvation until her passing. She united in Holy Matrimony to Dan Albert Sims. She was preceded in death by her mother, Classie Haire; father, Tommy Haire; grandson, Devionte Smith; brothers, L. H. Haire, John D. Haire, Susie Mae Dixon, Kathryn Jackson and James Heath. She leaves to cherish her memory: seven children, two sons and five daughters, Reginald Haire, LaQuentus Haire (LaKisha) of Dallas, Texas, Sharletta Lawton (Ricky), Tomika Shelton (Randy) of Dallas, Texas, LaQuanda Kinney (Keith), Marion McMurray (Michael) and Cheryl Sims; one adopted son, Zachary Grady (Robin); one sister, Bennie Haire; two

brothers, Willie Heath and Melvin Hal; 17 grandchildren; 23 great-grandchildren; and a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

Kevin Eugene Ferguson Jr. Kevin Eugene Ferguson Jr. was born on October 20, 1997 in Dallas, TX to Shenna T. Lea and Kevin E. Ferguson He was educated in the Duncanville and Dallas ISD, where he attended Duncanville High School and North Dallas High School. He loved sports, especially football. He played little league with the Southside Rams, Reed Middle School and Duncanville High School. He inherited his love of boxing from his father and became a member of the Ring of Hope Boxing Club. Kevin worked for Genghis Grill, Kohl’s & most recently CVS. He was also a junior volunteer with Texas Oncology. He had a passion for cooking and had aspirations of being a Chef/Baker like his father. One of his specialty dishes was bacon-wrapped green beans. Kevin was a member of Freedom Missionary Baptist Church, where he was baptized, along with his father and brother, Kealan, on February 3, 2013.

Kevin was preceded in death by maternal grandparents, Jimmy Faggins and Christine Lea Faggins, and uncle, Jimmy Lea Faggins. Kevin leaves to cherish his memories his parents: Shenna Lea and Kevin Ferguson Sr.; four brothers, Kealan Ferguson, Jaylon Ferguson, DeKalon Ferguson and Ka’Sius Ferguson; paternal grandparents, Anderson and Vanessa Forest; one uncle, Andrew Forest; one aunt, Shontell Byers(Dale); special aunt, Ethel Hasket (Michael); and a host of aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends.

Dwayne Everett Scott Dwayne Everett Scott was born June 1, 1951 in Zwolle, Sabine Parish, LA to Bernice Andrew and Vance E. Scott, Jr. He accepted Christ and united with Boll Street CME Church which is now Cedar Crest Cathedral CME Church and remained a faithful member until his death. He attended high school in the DISD and graduated in 1969.

Dwayne went on to earn a BA degree in Sociology/ Psychology from North Texas State University in Denton, TX in 1975.

He later attended Dallas Baptist University and earned a MBA in Finance in 1990.

Dwayne worked for IBM Corporation and the Mobil Corporation for more than 15 years as an accountant. He also worked 12 years with DISD in various accounting positions. At the time of his death he was employed as a budget analyst for Dallas County. Dwayne passed away peacefully Friday, November 3, 2017. Dwayne is survived by his daughter, Ashley Taylor of San Antonio, TX; sister, Lowanda Scott Hebert of Philadelphia, PA; and brother Vance E. Scott III of Silver Springs, MD. Others left to cherish his memories are special friends and family, Bobbie Johnson and Diane Brown.

Oris Hollie, Jr. Oris Hollie, Jr., served the Dallas Community in home remodeling and church renovations for more than 65 years.

Born in Dallas and attending Lincoln High School, Oris was a Korean War Veteran and a very successful carpenter. Oris was a member and deacon of the Golden Gate Baptist Church for more than 45 years. His hobbies included hosting family gatherings, story-telling and working on antique cars. Oris loved taking his family on long cross-country road trips to expose them to the rich and vast parts of the US. He and his wife, Barbara, were married for more than 60 years. They had one daughter, Bonita Hollie, who preceded them in death. He leaves to mourn, his cherished wife, Barbara; a sister, Dorothy Masterson; two grandsons, Leroy White and Philip Williams; four nephews, Don Jones (Jessie), Dr. Dan Jones (Maria) and Dale Jones (Yolanda) of Washington, D.C., and Adrian Masterson; two nieces, Patricia Knight and Janice Masterson; and a dedicated care-giver, Sheryel Hill.

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Leon Cox Mr. Leon Wayne Cox was born October 25, 1953, in Dallas, TX, to the parentage of Robert Lee and Daisy Lee Cox. As a child, Leon attended the Wheatley COGIC and received his formal education in the Dallas Independent School District. Leon was an avid lover of cars and was a self-taught auto mechanic. He never received any formal training, it was a natural gift from God. His father, Robert; nephew, Marcus; great nephew and niece, Courtland and Courtney preceded him in death. Leon is survived by and leaves to cherish his memory, his mother, Daisy Cox; two children, Leon (Pookey) and Daislyn (Chrissy) Cox; four granddaughters, Starr, Skyy, Kathryn (Kitty) and Chloe; siblings, Mary “Cookie” Cox, Ann Cox-Turner (Earnest), Rodney (Irene) Cox, Robert “Big Cox” (Teresa). He also leaves a host of nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.

Dexter Horace Stanley Dexter Horace Stanley, the son of Mrs. Betty Jean Stanley and Mr. Rayshell Stanley, was born in Dallas, TX. During his youth, he united with St. Anthony Catholic Church. Dexter graduated from the South Oak Cliff High School in 1980 and worker at Dallas County Community College. Dexter was preceded in death by his father, Rayshell Stanley and sister, Mary Ann Stanley.

Left to cherish his memory; Mother, Betty Stanley, two sons, Stacy Wisner, Tracy Wisner (Justina) and one daughter, J’Mese Stanley, eight grandchildren, four brothers, Wayne Stanley, Michael Stanley, Wendel Stanley and Stacy Stanley. A host of uncles, aunts, nieces, nephews, cousins other relatives and friends.

Bobbie Dean Mays Wilson Mrs. Bobbie Dean Mays Wilson was born December 8, 1936, to Mr. Charles E d w a r d Mays, Sr., and Mrs. Lora Lee Wrighter Mays in Chilton, TX. She was the oldest of 12 children.

She received her formal education in Chilton, TX. She attended Frederick Douglass Elementary, Middle and High Schools. In 1956, she was a member of the first graduating class from Frederick Douglass High School. She later earned a Business Education Certification from Durham Business School, Dallas, Texas.

After receiving her Business Certification from Durham, she was employed with the City of Dallas until her retirement in 1997.

At an early age, Ms. Bobbie professed Christ as her personal Savior and united with St. Paul Methodist Church, Chilton, TX. She relocated to Dallas and united with St. Luke “Community” United Methodist Church, in 1974, under the pastoral leadership of Dr. Zan W. Holmes, Jr. She was a faithful member of St. Luke for more than 40 years. She was known for baking delicious cakes and pies. Following Bobbie’s move to Dallas, she met and married Mr. Melvin J. Wilson. To this union, one son, Rory E. Wilson was born. Ms. Bobbie made her transition on Friday, July 21, 2017. She leaves to cherish her memories, her daughter, Beverly J. McNeal; son-in-law Richard; grandson, William; brothers, James and Stanley Mays (Pat) Dallas, TX; sisters, Mary M. Martin (Eddie), Edna and Shirley Mays, Waco, TX; Estella Mays, Dallas, TX; numerous nephews, nieces, great nephews and nieces, devoted friends and visitors, Pat Carroll, Lola Redic and Kathy and Randy Luster.

Queen Esther Erving Queen was born March 26, 1937, to the parentage of Emanuel Jones Sr. and Clydie Mae Coleman Jones in Lodi, TX (Marion County).

Queen began her education at H.S. Thompson Elementary and was a graduate of Lincoln High School. She matriculated further attending LACC, Los Angeles, CA and El Centro College, Dallas, TX, receiving her Bachelors of Science degree began nursing where she was a Staff Nurse. (Became a Licensed RN).

She married the love of her life Thomas Erving September 15, 1960 and to this loving union produced one daughter.

She was an active and faithful member of Oak Cliff Bible Fellowship church under the leadership of Dr. Tony Evans. In her leisure, Queen enjoyed traveling. Queen was involved in many social and civic organizations. She entered eternal rest February 13, 2017. She leaves to treasure her memories: her beloved husband, Thomas Erving Jr.; daughter, Terri Yvette Fields; grandchildren, Christopher DeCorey

Jackson, Chad Winn, Zachary Fields; great grandchildren, Elijah Emilion Christian Jackson, Evan Ellington Chase Jackson; sister, Rose Henderson; brother, Emanuel Jones Jr.; a host of nieces, nephews other relatives and friends.

Gail Denise McGaughey Smart. Accomplished.

Shy. Loyal.

Gail Denise McGaughey was all of these things, and would often dream of a grander life. Gail was born on April 20, 1951 in Dallas, TX, the oldest of three children to Kenneth A. McGaughey Sr. and Priscilla Frances McGaughey. Gail graduated Salutatorian from Roosevelt High School in Oak Cliff, and was named runner up in the highly competitive Miss Teenage Dallas pageant. After high school, Gail attended Tufts University, a prestigious private university just outside Boston, MA, on a scholarship. She graduated with a B.S. degree in Hospital Administration, and began her professional career. Gail was a caregiver for several years to many of her nieces and nephews when they were small children, spent long stretches of time caring for her maternal grandmother, and the last 10 years of her life as a devoted companion and caregiver to her mother and father.

She was completely enthralled by fashion design, could bake a mean and memorable pound cake, and shared her family’s passion for the Dallas Cowboys. Gail is survived by her two brothers Kenneth Jr., and Gerald, their spouses: Debra and Doris, respectively, and seven nieces and nephews: Ashley, Kenny, Erin, Lindsey, Gerald, Natalie and Mathew and many other cousins and relatives.

Victoria Toney Barbour Vi c tor i a Ton e y B ar b ou r was born August 6, 1933 to Lonnie and Elizabeth Ton e y [ n e e Goins] (deceased). She was the sixth child of 10 born to this union. Victoria completed her secondary education in Giddings, TX as an Honors student and an outstanding soloist. She continued her education at Prairie View A&M University, where she completed her studies in three years then attended Texas Women’s University, where she received her Master’s Degree. Additionally, she sought a vocation as a beautician at the Madam CJ Walker Beauty School, in which she later became the owner/operator of two beauty salons. Upon acquiring her teacher’s certification, she initially began teaching at Sequoyah Jr. High School and continued her teaching career within DISD for 34 years and retired as a school administrator. Victoria taught Mission 1 at her church for many years and also loved singing. Victoria was a both a charter and life-long member of the Rose of Sharon Baptist Church.With memories of her life she leaves: her brothers, Dr. A.C. Toney, Reverend David Toney, sister, Evangelist Lizetta Armstrong (Bobby), nephews, Lawrence Toney, Reverend Willie C. Toney, Robert Toney, Lonnie Toney (Pam), Reverend Billy Toney (Alicia), Drexel Toney, Dr. Corey Toney (Clarette), Elder Engleburg Toney (Delvery), nieces, Charlene Davenport (Tom), Margaret Boyd Ward, Felinda Cook (Reggie), Vershun Kenard (Sam), Mariesa Toney, Lisa Williams (Reginald), Monique Thrash (Orlando), Angela Fudge (Jeffrey), and Dinah Toney. She has many great nieces and nephews, two great friends, Mae Dell Proctor and Betty Myles.

Mrs. Jessie Langley Glaspie Mrs. Jessie Langley Glaspie (or for some, Jessie Lee, Mama, or G-Mama) would like to let you know that her work here is done. She left detailed instructions for her children, Michael (Janice) and Jessica; grandchildren, Tamara (Faron), Michael, Jr., Marcus, Patrick, Jr. and Stephen; sisters-in-love, Edna Langley, Ione Greer, and Gloria Glaspie; and a host of loved ones to celebrate her completed mission here, and to do so with excellence, as she would expect nothing less. Jessie was born in Marshall, TX the first of George & Bertha’s three children. She was baptized at Galilee Baptist Church of Marshall.

Jessie earned a Bachelor’s degree in Education at Bishop College in Marshall, TX, where she found love in the person of H. D…a union that lasted 53 years until his passing in 1999. She continued her studies in the Master’s of Education program at Prairie View A&M University. Jessie devoted 45 years of her life to education - teaching in East & West Texas, Tyler, and Wilmer Hutchins Public Schools. She was a devoted member of The Links, Top Ladies of Distinction, Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. and Good Street Baptist Church. On November 2, 2017, after a life of adventure and service, God gave Jessie rest. We remember her laugh, her energy, her passion for life (and clothes,

TEXAS METRO NEWS and hats, and Cadillacs) and love for her family, friends and all people.

Era Mae Jackson Hardeman Era Mae (Dillie) Jackson Hardeman was born November 29, 1926, in Kilgore, TX. She was the second of four children that blessed the union of Herschel and Legether Jackson. She attended North Chapel Public School in Kilgore, TX and attended Denver Vocational School. At an early age, Dillie united with Mount Pleasant CME Church in Kilgore. Upon moving to Dallas in 1942, she joined Saint Paul AME Church. She was also affiliated with: Order of the Eastern Stars: Heroines of Jericho, Kitchen Delight and Dalworth Golden Assembly No. 31. She met and married, a dashing gentleman, the late John Henry Hardeman and this union welcomed one child, Deene Hardeman. The loving family relocated to Denver, CO where they started a Construction Company. Later, Dillie joined her sister Bonnie’s catering business, as the head pastry chef. Dillie leaves to cherish her memory her daughter, Deene Hardeman of Dallas, TX; grandson Eric Hardeman, Dallas; nieces, Vickie Henry (Michael) Dallas, Ann Rogers (George) Dallas, Godson Joseph Lomatt, Dallas. She also had a special relationship with her late sister, Bonnie Jones’, grandchildren - Akadius Berry (Tamra) of Charlotte, North Carolina and Bonnie Henry, Dallas.

John Michael Jones John Michael Jones, affectionately known as Jo h n - M i c h a e l to family and friends was born in New Orleans, LA to Karina Jones (Brown) and the late Nathaniel Stevenson. He is also the step-son of Robert Brown Sr. John unexpectedly departed this world on March 14, 2017 in Dallas, Texas at Methodist Hospital. John graduated in 2012 From Dallas Can Academy. After graduation, John went into the workforce and was an employee of Minyard’s Grocery Store, Wal-Mart, Kohl’s and Textile Pillow Factory during his lifetime. He especially loved to do the second line and watch the movie Friday After Next (his favorite). He leaves to cherish his memories his daughters Miriah and Miya Jones, his (soon to be born) son John Michael Jones Jr., his mother Karina Jones-Brown, brothers Ron Foley Jr., JaRon Jones, Robert Brown Jr., Step Father Robert Brown Sr. Grandmother Rosalind Robinson, Step-Grandfather Joseph Robinson, Great-Grandmother Rosemary Molizone, Aunts, Uncles, Cousins, and a host of family and friends.

Grace Estelle Lott Bacon G R A C E ESTELLE LOTT BACON (79), Our beloved m o t h e r passed away on Saturday February 25, 2017. She was born on in Dallas, TX on September 15, 1935 to Aleisha Williams and Doris Walton Lott. She attended N. W. Harlee school and later moved to Fort Worth and attended I. M. Terrell High School. Her faith was nurtured at the 9th Street Church of Christ and later at the Cedar Crest Church of Christ. She was united in marriage to the love of her life T. C. Bacon and remained his wife until his passing in 1977. Her love for fashion and art led her to a career as a hairdresser where she won numerous awards and honors as a professional Hair Stylist. She studied hair style under the tutelage of world renown stylist Art Dyson of Soul Scissors Salons of Beverly Hills CA. She was the principal director of Hair Salons for Sanger Harris. She owned and operated A Touch of Grace Beauty Salon until semi-retirement. She served on the school boards of her children’s school, John XXIII and Bishop Dunne. She enjoyed her membership in La Bon Marche ladies social club. She led the renown Gospel Hour Radio Chorus for more than 20 years. She contributed to charity as well as politics and was recognized in 2006 as an Unsung Hero by the United States Congress, the Texas Senate and House and Dallas City Council. She was preceded in death by her husband T. C., daughter Schelia, her father Doris Walton Lott and her mother Aleisa Williams English. To mourn her passing are Carolyn Carter (Rickey), Randy Bacon, Stanley Bacon, Schelia (02) and Delania Braden (Robert), her beloved and cherished grandsons, Tralan Chase Mathis and Noah Isiah Carter, her sisters Doris Williams (Zeke), Pat Hinderman and Lisa Frazier (Willie) Galloway and a host of loving family and friends.

Charles W. Winslow, Jr. Pianist, music educator, arts in education activist, seminary student Charles W. Winslow, Jr was born November 30, 1955, in Philadelphia, PA. He passed away November 11, 2017, at Presbyterian Hospital to the sounds of “A Charlie Brown Christmas.” Charles was a native of Philadelphia.

He began studying classical piano at the age of eight and came to Texas in 1977 as

a grad student at the University of North Texas. In 1995 he founded “The Winslow Group,” a fine arts, performance, and education consulting company. He founded The Dallas Jazz Quartet in 1986. Charles Winslow worked as music director, producer, pianist, music coach, and keyboard synthesist for a variety of musicals and shows. In 2002 Charles was an arts in education consultant for W.W. Wilson High School, DISD for their “Diversity in the Arts Initiative 2002.” A longtime member of St. Luke “Community” United Methodist Church, he also attended the Islamic Association of North Texas, Dallas Central Mosque and East Plano Islamic Association, and was a graduate student at Perkins School of Theology, SMU in the Master of Theological Studies; Concentration in Church Music and Worship.

Prior to his passing Charles served as music director at St. Mark Baptist Church, in Garland. He led a monthly Jazz Vespers service at Midway Hills Christian Church, Rev. Arthur Stewart.. He leaves to cherish his memories his siblings Bonita Faye Winslow, Jack Carlton Banks, and Erica Banks and a host of familymembers.

He will also be fondly remembered by his godson, Clarence Shepard, godmother, Dr. Rosie Sorrells, best friend, Jonathan Norton.

Geraldine Wheeler A Time to be Born... Mrs. Geraldine Parms Wheeler was born on November 2, 1926, in Teague, TX, to the late Preston Parms and Beatrice Dixon. A Time to Plant... She confessed Christ at an early age and joined Salem Institutional Baptist Church, under the pastorage of the late Rev. B.R. Riley, and remained a faithful member until her health declined. A Time to Get...

Geraldine attended Dallas Public Schools, N.W. Harllee Elementary, J.P. Starks, and received her high school diploma from Lincoln High School in 1942. She continued her education, attending El Centro College and Mountain View College, obtaining an Associates degree in Early Childhood Education. A Time to Sow...

Geraldine’s first job as a young adult was a waitress at the Adolphus Hotel in Dallas. A Time to Love... On April 23, 1947, Geraldine Parms and Horace Wheeler, Jr. were united in Holy Matrimony. A Time to Embrace... To this union one daughter and three sons were born. A Time to Speak... actively engaged at Salem Institutional Baptist Church. A Time to Die...

She departed this life on Sunday, February 5, 2017 at Grace Presbyterian Village, Assisted Living,. And a Time of Peace... .

Survivors left to cherish her memory are one daughter, Shirley Wheeler, two sons, Horace Wheeler III and Reginald Wheeler, daughter-in-law, Janis Wheeler; 12 grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; two sisters-in-law, Jean Wheeler Crayton and Brenda Wheeler Mitchell; one brother-in-law, Zenas Mitchell; cousins, Rev. Albert Moore, Clementine Brown and Ellen Doris Laury; and a host of nephews, nieces, and friends

Carl Lewis Carl Edward Lewis was born on August 10, 1947, to the union of Raymond Maurice and Isadore Ferguson Lewis. Mr. Lewis attended Lincoln High School and graduated with the class of 1965. He was employed at McShan Florist for a length of time as a delivery driver. One son, Reginald Lewis preceded him in death. He leaves to mourn his passing: his wife for over 23 years, Linda Lewis; one son, Victor Lewis; three daughters, Lisa Conway, Chana Lewis of Oklahoma, and Telisha Bradley of Maryland; 11 grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; four brothers, Bennie Lewis, Stevie Lewis, Tyrone Lewis and David Lewis, all from Dallas; and a host of relatives and friends.

Cleaster Brantley Mr. Cleaster Brantley, Jr. was born in L o n g v i e w, TX to the parentage of Cleaster B r a n t l e y, Sr. and Ida Mae Walker Brantley. He attended the Dallas Independent School District. He graduated from Roosevelt High School class of 1966. He united with the First Full Gospel Pentecostal Church under the pastorage of the late Bishop Harold Smith.

He had a special bond with Bishop Smith who took him on multiple trips in and out of the country. He was a landscaper and owner of his “decorative” styled inventions. He developed many lifelong relationships with his prestigious clientele.

He leaves to cherish his memory, his wife, Mrs. Lois Brantley who gave him her love and support throughout his illness; three daughters, Ms. Brandye Williams, Jessica Brantley (Roderick), and Carla Brantley, all of Dallas; son, Cleaster Brantley III of Dallas; four grandsons, Jamaree Williams, Kemeyon Williams, Landenn Wil-

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liams and Darius Barber, all of Dallas and whom he cherished; three sisters, Bessie Hood (James), Dorothy Washington and Catherine Jones (Franklin), all of Dallas; and a host of relatives and friends. He also had two grandpuppies, Goliath and Koa Koa Chanel.

Elizabeth Stallon Her LifeElizabeth Frances Stallon was born in Dallas, TX, to the union of Shelley Grant and Elizabeth Charlotte Stallon. She was the youngest of four daughters. She is preceded in death by her parents and her three eldest sisters, Myrtle Berry, Chrysanthiaus Washington and Sammie Stallon. Elizabeth was a graduate of Lincoln High School in Dallas, TX, and obtained her BS degree from Prairie View A&M University. She spent her career primarily teaching in parochial schools including St. Phillips, St. Peter and Holy Cross. She also found joy in teaching young children at Pace and Ross Learning Center. She leaves to mourn her loss: her niece, Shu-Pon Holland, and nephew, Vernon A. Holland; her great-nieces and nephews, Kristina Holland, Vernon H. Holland; Shelly and Ross Gloyna and their children, Milana and Robbie; in addition to many loving cousins and special friends. Fiesty to the end!!

Yolanda Webber Yolanda Jeanne Webber was born August 12, 1968, in Dallas, TX, to the late Bishop Webber, Jr. (Badam) and Katherine Louise Tucker-Webber (Kat).

Yo l a n d a was educated in Wilmer Hutchins and Dallas Independent School Districts. She graduated from DISD’s Franklin D. Roosevelt High School in 1986. Yolanda attended Prairie View A&M University and Cedar Valley College. She was a certified emergency medical transportation technician. She also held certificates for CNA (Certified Nurse’s Assistant) and MA (Medical Assistant). She was a faithful member of Pleasant Hill Baptist Church, Wills Point, TX. During the course of her employment, Yolanda worked with several nursing homes, home health care agencies, and MHMR facilities in the Dallas metropolitan area. Additionally, Yolanda worked as a drug counselor with the Hutchins State Jail until her health failed.

Although she never had children of her own, she played an integral part in the raising of her nieces and nephews with whom she so freely extended her unconditional love. Her precious memories will continue to live in the hearts of her sisters, Debra Webber of Dallas and Tenekki Webber of DeSoto; her brother, Deontay Webber of Dallas; her aunts, Emma Lyons (Bobby) of Rowlett, Ritha Jackson of Desoto and Julie Lyons (Emmet) of Wills Point; her nieces and nephews, Shemeka Webber, D-ray, Sheveal, Prentavios, Keilan, Michael, Kayla, Treasure, Brynia, Dillan, Dorian, Aaliyah, Princeton, Destiny, Candy, Alicia and Lena, and her very special niece, Paisley Baker; special friends, Alisha Robinson and Anna Moore; and a host of other relatives and friends.

Minnie McBay

Minnie Fay McBay was born on February 11, 1913, to the parentage of Jalie Carroll and Sherman Cooper.

Fay was educated in the Milford public school district. She met and married Paul L. McBay in October of 1933. To this union, one daughter was born. She was a faithful member of St. James A.M.E. Church until the Lord called her home, Saturday, March 18, 2017. She was preceded in death by her husband, Paul McBay; and daughter, Joyce McBay Brown.She leaves to cherish her memory: granddaughter, Paula Fay Brown; grandson, Kelvin Andre Brown; sister, Lometa Gaskin of Denver; and host of relatives and friends.

Helen Everett

Helen Fae Everett was born on March 7, 1936, in Arthur City, TX, to William and Rena Leroy. She attended and graduated from Arthur City Independent School District. She later moved to Dallas, TX, where she met and married J.C. Everett.

Helen worked for a number of years for Mr. and Mrs. Becker. She finished her working life doing work for Foster Grandparents of Greater Dallas. Mrs. Everett was very devoted to her family, as well as her church family.

She was a member of Tabernacle Church, and then later joined Mother of the Community Care Church. Mrs. Everett leaves

JANUARY 3, 2017

TEXAS METRO NEWS 10 to cherish her memories and celebrate her life, daughters, Mary King and husband, Jimmy King, Sr., Debra Sims, and Cynthia Belt and husband, Carl Belt; son, Gary Sims, Sr.; many grandchildren, Michele Hackney, Jimmy King, Jr., Tenequa McClendon, Frankie Sims, Zemana Sims, James Polk, Jr., Joshua Sims, La Rena Sims, Shantel Sims, Gary Sims, Jr., Annie Taylor, and Shannon Strange; and great-grandchildren, Shantrice Hall, JaRodney Sims, Summer Sims, Shayla, Miracle, Josiah, Farrah, Mariyha, Evan, Cole and Kamryn.

Mary Louise Thomas Mary Louise Thomas was born on August 11, 1943, to Raymond Young Sr. and Cleo Christine Young in Henderson, TX. She accepted Christ at an early age under the leadership of Reverend Joshua and was a faithful member of Munger Avenue Baptist Church for 60 years. She graduated from Lincoln High School in 1962.

She was the captain of the “Purple Flash” Majorettes. She later moved to California and attended Los Angeles Community College majoring in Business Administration. Mary met and married the love of her life, Joe W. Thomas, in 1963, and to this union two children were born: “Kimmi” and “Joe Joe.” They traveled and raised their children around the world before finally settling in Dallas, TX. Mary was employed at Baylor University Medical Center of Dallas and retired after 40 years of dedicated service. She leaves to cherish her memories her daughter, Kim Thomas-Bryant, and son, Joe Willie Thomas Jr.; nine grandchildren, Cecil Bryant II, Xavier Bryant, Elizabeth Bryant, Jeremi Luckey-Thomas, Nicholas McKinney-Thomas, Joe Thomas III, Krystal Washington, Jocelyn Thomas, and Mackenzie Thomas; three great-grandchildren, Carrington Bryant, Jasiah Bryant, and Jeremiah Crawford; two brothers, Henry James Young (Ann) and Michael Henry Morris; two sisters, Rebecca Jean Morris of Dallas and Ivy Wingard (Eddie) of Houston; a special niece, Tammie LaShae Caldwell (Keith); godbrother, Gene Warren of Dallas; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Marie Bell Ramsey Marie Bell West Ramsey was born in Mineola, TX, on November 27, 1925 (Thanksgiving Day), to the parentage of Walter Bell and Estellar Jackson Bell. She joined Cedar Tree Methodist Church at an early age, and later attended Hamilton Park United Methodist Church until her health failed. Marie attended Wood County schools and graduated from Quitman High School. She continued her education at Wiley College in Marshall, TX, and also at Jarvis Christian College in Hawkins, TX. She married Atwell West and two children were born to this union, Atwell Gregory West and Sherry Dianne West.

Marie taught at Bale Care for 10 years and Sanger Harris for 21 years. She also worked as a nanny for Susan McAdams and Jean Phillips. She traveled throughout the United States, and enjoyed traveling to Paris, France. She was a member of the Southern Poverty Law Center and the NAACP. Her volunteer service included breast cancer awareness.

Willie Jean Thompson Willie Jean Thompson was born in Dallas, TX, on September 15, 1951. She was the fourth of five daughters born to the parentage of Dorothy Mae Benson and Eugene Benson.

She graduated from South Oak Cliff High School.

She was a member of True Lee Missionary Baptist Church.

She married Benny Lee Thompson on November 30, 1970. Willie went on to start a career at Rochester Gauges, where she remained employed until her health forced her to retire. In 2010, she moved to West Dallas and soon joined Temple of Prayer under the leadership of Pastor Porter. Willie is preceded in death by her parents, Eugene and Dorothy Benson; husband, Benny Lee Thompson; sisters, Wanda Wallace and Debra Tolbert; step brother, Curtis Johnson; brother-in-law, Sam Wallace; step son, Larry Johnson; nephew, Sammy Wallace; and great-nephew, DaKerrius Williams, Jr. Willie leaves to cherish her memories: her sisters, Sharolyn Craddock of Sherman, TX and Carolyn Patterson of Dallas, TX; two special nieces and one nephew, NaTasha Tolbert, Stephanie Jackson and Edward Wallace; and a host of other relatives and friends.

William G. Timmons God has called from labor to reward, our beloved son, husband, brother and father, Willie Gene Timmons, on April 25, 2017, at 12:05 pm. Willie Gene Timmons was born on April 18, 1934 to the parentage of William and Thelma Butler Timmons.

He received his education and graduated from Winona Industrial School in Winona, TX. He professed his love for Jesus at an early age and joined Liberty Winona

Baptist Church.

Willie Gene supported New Beginnings Fellowship Church and was a loyal and dedicated member. He was employed with Scott Phillips 66 in Amarillo, TX. He met and married Sarah M. Hackworth on March 27, 1970.

He is survived by his loving wife, Sarah M. Hackworth Timmons; son, William Johnson (Sandra) of Detroit, Michigan; daughter, Shirley Whaley (James) of Garland, Texas; brothers, Garnezar Timmons (Rosa) of Houston, TXand Richard Timmons of Anniston, Alabama; eight grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren; two great-great-grandsons; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Bobbie Ratcliff Mrs. Bobbie Faye Edwards Ratcliff was born in Houston, TX, on August 7, 1941, to Mr. Willis Edwards, Jr., and Myrtle L. Reagan. Bobbie received her formal education in Belton, Texas and Dallas public schools, receiving her diploma from Lincoln High School. She then furthered her education and proceeded into a nursing career. Later, she met and married Frederick Ratcliff, who preceded her in death. Left to cherish her precious memories are her four children and their spouses, Bersa Wilson (Kenneth), Byron Smith (Marvette), Bryan Smith (Alicia), and Barry Franklin (Sherri); 16 grandchildren and 18 great-grandchildren; five siblings, Veronica, Patricia, Deronica, Craig, and Elaine; and a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

Bertha Boyd Bertha Mae Moore-Boyd was born into the union of Alfretta and Ella Mae Prentice on June 17, 1918. She accepted Christ at the early age of 10 in Marshall, Texas. She moved to Dallas in 1951. Later, she met and married Deacon Robert B. Moore, Jr., who preceded her in death. In April of 1957, she united with Greater Emmanuel Baptist Church. On December 13, 1981, she married Clinton Boyd who also preceded her in death. Bertha is survived by two sisters, Ella Mae Norman of Dallas, Texas, and Laura Reliford of Pueblo, Colorado. She is also survived by a host of nieces, nephews and cousins.

Bernice Battle Bernice Hunter–Battle (Becie) was born on August 17, 1927, in Longview, TX, to the late Thetus Erone Hunter and Nelvie Lee Hunter. She departed this life on July 7, 2017. She received her education in the Dallas Public School system and was a graduate of Lincoln High School’s class of 1946.

Upon graduation, she attended Texas College. Bernice was a member of Kirkwood Temple CME Church in Dallas, TX. Bernice was employed with A. Harris (Sanger Harris/Foley’s). She retired after 35 years of service. She worked and volunteered throughout her life. Bernice was very active in several organizations, including being a past Matron of Phyllis Wheatley #326 Chapter of the Order of the Eastern Star P.H.A; Parent/Teacher Association (PTA president and gave over 22 years of service); neighborhood crime watch; and city of Dallas (Senior Affairs Commission Board and chair of the Victimization Commission). Left to cherish her memories are her grandsons, Kevin Eron Johnson (Sharhonda) and Hayward Turner, Jr.; seven great-grandchildren; two great-great-grandchildren; special niece and nephew, Vickie Gordon and Julius A. Gordon (Mydes); Godchildren, Whit and Wells Weinberg; and a host family and friends.

Dolores Nix Dolores R. Nix, “Lois,” was born in Athens, TX., at Henderson County Memorial Hospital to parents, Hildred Ross, Sr., and Jessie Mae Ross.

Shortly after her birth the Ross family moved from Athens to East Dallas.

Lois departed this life to receive eternal life with her heavenly father on July 14th, 2017. She is preceded in death by her parents, Hildred Ross, Sr., and Jessie Mae Ross; as well as her sister, Patricia Straughter; and first husband, Robert Charles Rawlins. Dolores is survived by her husband, Herbert James Nix; children, Remon Bernard Rawlins, Victoria Rawlins, and Robbie Rawlins Amos; siblings, Betty Matthews, Hildred Straughter, Jr., Doris Babers, Billy Joe Ross, Barbara Evans, and Ben Ross; grandchildren, Brandon, Kiera, Laqwanza, Cameron, Precious, Jordan, and Remon Jr.; great-grandchildren, Tristan, K’Dyn, Paris, Keldrick, Kay-

la, Leah, and Zion; and a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives and close friends.

Paul Sheely Paul Samuel Sheely, a resident of Austin, TX, by way of Tulsa, OK, passed away August 14, 2017, in Austin at the age of 78.

Paul was born on November 20, 1939, in Dallas, Texas, to the parentage of Barry and Deressa Sheely.

As a child, he enjoyed tap dancing and riding horses. Paul accepted Christ at an early age and was affliated with Saint Paul AME Church both in South Dallas and Cleburne, TX. He graduated from James Madison High School. Later, Paul met and married, Melvina Johnson. Paul’s interests included playing cards, dominoes, and visiting with family and friends. He leaves to cherish his memories: his children, Samuel Lamone Johnson, Camel Johnson; one granddaughter, Carribean, and two grandsons, Lamone Jr. and Terrell; sister and brother, Faye Fields of Tulsa, OK, and Hershall Shelley of Austin, TX; nieces and nephews, Lonnette (Marrell) of Chicago, IL, Jerean (Milton) of Dallas, TX, Tarrens of Dallas, TX, Deandrea of Houston, TX, and Farroll (Terry) of Phoenix, AZ; four great nephews and one great niece; and numerous other relatives and friends.

Joann Washington Mrs. JoAnn Washington was born in Waxahachie, TX, on September 13, 1931 to the late Nancy and Louie Borders, Sr. She professed her love for the Lord at an early age and united with the Golden Gate Baptist Church. She met and married Silas Washington, Sr. on March 17, 1962 in Dallas County. She was employed as a private housekeeper for many years for Mr. and Mrs. Toby and Sue Woolverton. She is preceded in death by one grandson, Gregory Borders, Sr. Survivors include one daughter, Betty L. Alexander (Hiawath); and one step daughter, JoAnn Garrett (James); grandchildren, Shane Hefner (Marjorie) and Velencia Haynes; five great-grandchildren; and a host of other relatives and friends.

Sarah Timmons God has called from labor to reward, our beloved daughter, wife, sister and mother, Sarah Mae Timmons, on October 17, 2017, in Vibra Hospital of Richardson. Sarah Mae Timmons was born on November 13, 1929, to the parentage of Louis C. and Amanda (Mandy Williams) Hackworth.

She received her education in Elm Mott School in Elm Mott, TX. She completed her education by earning her GED at the age of 45. In 1955, Sarah Mae and her children moved to Amarillo, TX, and united with Mount Calvary Baptist Church. She was a faithful church secretary and choir member until she moved her membership to Shiloh Missionary Baptist Church where she remained until her health began to fail. In June of 1966, she met Willie Gene Timmons. They were married on March 27, 1970, and in August of 2008, Sarah and Willie moved to Garland, TX. Sarah is survived by a son, William Johnson and his wife, Sandra, of Rochester, MI; a daughter, Shirley Whaley and her husband, James (or “son” as Sarah called him) of Garland, TX; two brothers, Paul D. Hackworth of Phoenix, Arizona, and Tommie R. Williams; nine grandchildren; 10 great-grandchildren; two great-great-grandchildren; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Phyllis Boyd Phillips (Phyllis) LaNoris Boyd was born December 8, 1946, in Kaufman County, the fifth child of Isaiah McNeal and Odessa Goode McNeal. Phyllis was employed by DISD and later began PBB Bookkeeping and Income Tax Services, established in 1988. She joined Concord Missionary Baptist Church under the late Pastor/Founder E.K. Bailey where she served with the Women’s Chorus Ministry and under Senior Pastor Bryan Carter, serving with the Information Hospitality Ministry until her health failed. Phyllis was affiliated with several organizations in her lifetime: The Order of Eastern Star, Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, CASA, AARP and Dallas Police Neighborhood Training Program under Police Chief David Kunkel. Phyllis married Freddie Lee Boyd on June 22, 1971, and to this union one child was born. She transitioned on December 12, 2017. Phyllis leaves to cherish her memory: daughter, Nicole L. Boyd of Dallas, TX; sister, Janice C. Thomas of Houston, TX; sistersin-law, Katherine Boyd (Randolph, Sr.) of Dallas, Freddie Jean Newhouse (Erick) of Dallas, Hazel Dunn of Marshall, TX, Evelyn Boyd (Charles) of Red Oak, TX and

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Ethelene (Lorenzo) Boyd of Fort Worth, TX; Most Cherished Lifetime Friend, Carolyn Thomas of Spring, TX; Emma Wright of Henderson, TX; devoted niece, J. Mechelle Riggens (Ronald) of Grand Prairie, TX; six God-daughters; Paulette R. Davis-Sakala of Irving, TX, Kristi Turner-Lacy (Orrick) of Dallas, Twyla Warrior-Gillum of Dallas, Texas, Jennifer R. Scott of Dallas, TX, Carlene Stadler of Flower Mound, TX, and Bonnie Carter-Jackson of Dallas; God-son, Perry Provost (Denise) of Rowlett, TX; and one God-grandbaby, Malaki Provost-Simpson; and a host of cousins nieces, nephews and friends.

Arthur Jordan Avean Young Beedie Mozell Franklin Bernice Williams Brenda Mathis

Ruby A. Walker

Carol Hepburn

Ruby A. Walker was born in Jacksonville, TX on April 20, 1936 to the parentage of the late John McDaniel and Melissa Anderson. She is the widow of the late Ralph Walker.

She is survived by her daughter Cheryl McBride (Steven McBride) and her sister Fairy Johnson, her grandchildren Marcus Jones (Sonya Jones), Lakresha Leonard (Tyrone Leonard) and Courtney McBride. She is also survived by a host of great grandchildren, nieces and nephews, and other relatives. Ruby accepted Christ at an early age. She also completed her education and worked in the healthcare profession. Her joy was to help and take care of others.

She worked at several different healthcare facilities, but her most prominent and proudest moment was working for Navarro Regional Hospital for 25 years until her retirement. She lived her life for the Lord and was a faithful servant.

She worshiped and praised the Lord each day and adored life. She became a member of Renfro Memorial C.O.G.I.C in 1977 which later became Greater Love Outreach. She also served as an usher for many years for her home church and served on the City Wide Usher Board Committee. Ruby also participated in the Foster Grandparent program

Dakota Harwell Ezell Rhodes

Elmore Walker Lueteria Reed Darryll Edwards Joseph L. Sam

Lillian Wilson Lindsey GIbson

Lora Handy Margaret Campbell

Martha Hinojosa

Wade Brown Wade Brown was born on November 27, 1925 to Daniel and Oma Dell Brown in Henderson, TX. He was educated at String Town Gold Berry School. After high school, he and his twin brother, Wird, enlisted into the Navy in 1944. He married his wife, Martha Virginia Brown, on July 2, 1957 in Dallas, TX. Together they raised seven children and three great-grandchildren. They were married for 50 years before she transitioned home to be with the Lord. In 1952, he began work as a barber in Graham’s Barber Shop in Dallas. He continued to work there until 1979, when he and his wife moved to California. He then worked as a banking security officer until retirement. Wade, affectionately known by his last name, “Brown,” was very family oriented. His home was always open to his children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, family, and friends. He loved to tell jokes, tinker around the home, create projects, and cut hair. Wade loved church. He served as a deacon at his church, The Burning Bush, in San Bernardino, California, until he moved back to Texas to reunite with additional family members. He became a deacon in his church, Southwest First Church of God in Christ, in Houston, TX. His children, Lonzo Jobe and Juanita Dones of Dallas, TX, Wilma Jean Johnson, Pauline Lloyd, and Marvin Johnson of San Bernardino, CA survive him. He also leaves to cherish his memory, 17 grandchildren, 32 great-grandchildren, three great-great grandchildren, and a host of nieces, nephews, family and friends. His wife, Martha Brown, sons Harold Johnson and Billy Wayne Jobe, father and mother, Daniel and Oma Dell, one sister, Juanita, and six brothers, Matthew, Daniel, Harvey, James, Horace, and Jessie Brown preceded him in death.

Debbie Lorraine Watson Debbie Lorraine Watson was born February 14, 1961, in Dallas, Texas, to the parentage of Jessie Lee Watson and Bennie Mae Cumming.

She attended Dallas public schools and graduated from David W. Carter High School. She was employed as a manager at CRS for more than 14 years until her health began to fail. She was most at peace when she was reading her bible and studying the word of God. Her favorite pastime was shopping at Walmart and Cato. She could spend hours in either one. She loved her family with every ounce of her heart.

She also loved her church family, Central Pointé Church of Christ. She was most happy when she was spending time with her family. Debbie passed away on December 21, 2017. Gone before her is her brother, Don Lynn Watson. She leaves behind a daughter, DeAngela Jefferson; a son, Rickie Watson; her mother, Bennie Mae Milligan and father, Jessie Lee Watson; siblings, Dorian Watson, Vickie Dixon (Nathan) and Marlo McIntyre (Don); nieces, Freda Watson and Sharece Simmons; nephew, Rickie Carter; and grandchildren, Lakiyha Phillips, Braylon Bennett, Ayden Watson, Rickquel Watson and Kaleb Bennett.

Mildred Metters

Obediah Lewis II Ora Woods

Paula Brown Regina Smith Sherry Sanders Vernell McCall

Willie Mae Lettsome Warren Deshay Jr

Helen Beckett A’leia Brown

Willie F. Moore

Ada Williams

A New Beginning by

La Juana and Patricia Barton Authors of Faithful Remembrances - Vol I

Sitting idly in my room; wondering what lies ahead.

Releasing things left behind; feeling relief and not dread.

Gathering life tools from which to choose; planning a path beyond grief bringing visions and views.

And, as seconds, minutes and hours progress into days; ultimately, expressing uplifting outlooks and ideas in many ways.

Then, multiple events and ideas occur end to end; creating new methods for others to comprehend.

Involved in things observed each and every day; elated to be growing and becoming a part; appreciating that this gives a time of sadness a new beginning and a new start.

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TEXAS METRO NEWS

JANUARY 3, 2017

11

JANUARY 3, 2017

TEXAS METRO NEWS 12

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J Marqs the Spot

Sushi Marquee at The Star rolls back time for good food, drinks and conversation

One of many displays of Sushi

Photos and Story

By Eva D. Coleman

It’s Frisco, Texas and has the Jones family “Jerry World” stamp of approval.

The concept of Sushi Marquee wasn’t a hard sell.

“We were all prepared to do this big presentation however after we gave the overview the deal was done,” restaurateurs and business partners Brad Hawkins and Dallas Hale shared, seemingly still in amazement.

The idea alone proved to be a great fit with development at The Star in Frisco, which serves as home to the Dallas Cowboys’ World Headquarters and practice facility, featuring world class venues like the Omni Hotel and notable culinary spots such as Dee Lincoln Prime and Tupelo Honey.

Sushi Marquee is nostal-

Former City of Frisco Mayor Maher Maso at Sushi Marquee

Sushi Marquee Restaurateurs and Business Partners Brad Hawkins and Dallas Hale

Lamb Lollipops at Sushi Marquee

Executive Chef Patrick Stark and Executive Sushi Chef Gabriel Reyes at Sushi Marquee

gic. When you walk in, you’re greeted by a giant marquee containing several screens showing music videos, television shows and movies from the 80s and 90s. Underneath those screens is pure, culinary artistry being performed by chefs with pride.

The food is beautifully crafted with tastes to match. The menu offers so much more than sushi, with options including a variety of appetizers, soups, salads and entrees.

My personal favorites were the Dynamite Rock Shrimp and Lamb Lollipops with cilantro lime sauce.

The drinks are experiments, with some performed in “mad scientist” fashion right before your eyes.

The open concept inside

January 5

the restaurant is intentional. Dining spaces are near each other to stimulate talking amongst guests.

“We want to break down the barriers of tables,” business partner Brad Hawkins said.

When the entire staff breaks into song, it’s obvious a good time is had here! They did just that and it felt like being

trapped inside an episode of the 80s show Cheers.

People were happy, loving food, drinks and life, however in this instance, it didn’t matter whether or not everyone knew your name.

“It’s time for great food and an experience to coincide,” Hawkins said. “Visually it’s just something to see and do here,” he added.

In addition to inside dining, Sushi Marquee has a dynamic outdoor space to initiate or carry on the conversation. It’s ideal for mixing and mingling and provides a great view, overlooking the busy scene within The Star.

Talking is encouraged, but of course, not with your mouth full!

“It’s kind of a social exper

iment for me,” Hawkins said.

With a crowd in the mix, and if my hypothesis holds shape as tightly as the rolls they make, Sushi Marquee at The Star is a non-traditional concept that has potentially secured a successful future.

Enjoy the time hop while diversifying your palate!

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

Big Freedia LIVE Trees, 2709 Elm Street Dallas, TX 75226 8:00 p.m. Tickets $20.00 http://ticketf.ly/2ABMCgy

tive District 30, Eddie Bernice Johnson, Incumbent, Barbara Mallory Caraway 2. U.S. Representative District 33, Marc Veasey, Incumbent, Carlos Quintanilla 3. Governor, Cedric W. Davis, Sr., Adrian Ocegueda, Jeffrey Payne, Tom Wakely, Lee Weaver, Lupe Valdez, Andrew White, Grady Yarbrough, Joe Mumbach, Demetria Smith, James Jolly Clark District Attorney 1. John Cruezot 2. Elizabeth Frizell

keynote speaker, oldest son and oldest living child of Dr. King and the Coretta Scott King. Hosted by the Arlington Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration Committee, the event will take place in the Bluebonnet Ballroom in the E. H. Hereford University Center located on the University of Texas at Arlington campus.

Tickets for the event are $55 per person and are available at www.utatickets.com.

January 11

Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. DFW Joint Founders Day Luncheon, Irving Convention Center at Las Colinas, 500 West Las Colinas Boulevard, Irving, TX 11:30 am - 2:00 pm

I AM NOT YOUR NEGRO Fort Worth Botanic Garden Center Lecture Hall, 3220 Botanic Garden Blvd, Ft Worth

January 12

Celebrate the 107th Anniversary of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. Richardson Plano Alumni Chapter presents- 2nd Annual “DIAMOND AFFAIR”107 Years of Achievement Celebration The Largest #J5 Celebration in the City House of Blues, 2200 North Lamar St Dallas, TX 75204 Sounds By: K104 DJ Steve Nice - DJ Boogie 469-454-8064. Doors open: 10pm until Flashlight

MLK Celebration Fair MLK Recreation Center 2922 MLK Blvd Dallas, TX 75215 Time: 11:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.

The MLK Celebration Fair will provide career opportunities, educational resources, medical screenings and access to valuable healthcare info. Vendor application: http://bit.ly/2C5EFww

The Dallas Examiner presents Monday NIght Politics, 6p.m. at African American Museum 1. U.S. Representa-

Jazz Meets Poetry at E.H. Hereford University Center (UTA Bluebonnet Ballroom),300 West 1st Street Arlington, TX 76010 7:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. This event features poet Verb Kulture along with the phenomenal music of Shelley Carrol who come together to infuse poetry, jazz, soul, funk and rhythm & blues as we pay tribute to Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. $20. Tickets available: http://bit.ly/2C6jAlK

Sunday Funny Day w/ Comedian and Actor Billy Sorrells Hyena’s Comedy Nightclub 5321 E. Mockingbird Road Dallas, TX 75206 Showtime at 7p.m.

Tickets $15 - $22. Tickets are available: http://bit.ly/2o78Tgm

YOGA N DA HOOD: ALL GUCCI MANE EDITION 2:30 PM to 3:30 PM Flow Fitness 2630 Aero Drive Grand Prairie, TX

January 8

36th Annual MLK Awards Banquet Dallas Hyatt Regency, 300 Reunion Blvd E. Dallas, TX 75207 6:30 p.m.

This is a formal awards banquet honoring sponsors and partners of the Martin Luther King, Jr. Community Center. The keynote speaker is Rev. Dr. William Barber, II. Tickets are available: http://bit.ly/2kvvn5E

January 14

January 6

Barre & Bites New Year’s Soirée AC Hotel 1712 Commerce Street Dallas, 7:00 - 9:30 p.m. Barre & Bites New Year’s Soiree is an annual fitness event by bloggers, Janna and Ginger. Its purpose is to bring together fitness enthusiasts and raise money for organizations in need. Tickets 30.00 http://bit.ly/2ocp2BB

January 13

Special Battle of the Bands hosted by Southern University Marching Band at 3pm featuring the ‘Human Jukebox and 10 North Texas high school bands. The event will take place at Ellis Davis Fieldhouse, 9191 South Polk Street in Dallas.

For info email suafdallas@yahoo.com.

DFW Metroplex International Sisterly Relations Day Observance. Public · Hosted by Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated, Omega Alpha Omega Chapter The People’s Last Stand 5319 E Mockingbird Ln, Ste 210, Dallas, Texas 75206 MLK Candlelight Ceremony- MLK Recreation Center 2922 MLK Blvd Dallas, TX 75215 7:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.

The Candlelight Ceremony is a special event hosted by the Alpha Sigma Lambda chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Incorporated. Dr. King Scholarship and Essay Contest winners will be awarded. Essay Contest Application: http://bit.ly/ 2j4yPEg The Toyota North Texas Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Parade & Celebration kicks off on with the MLK Advancing the Dream Awards Banquet where human rights activist and community advocate Martin Luther King III will be the

January 15 The Nu Pi Lambda Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Inc. 8am MLK Scholarship Breakfast where actor Laz Alonso will be the keynote speaker. Tickets for the event are $40 per person and available on Eventbrite at https://www.eventbrite. com/e/mlk-scholarship-breakfast-tick…

Dallas Examiner’s MONDAY NIGHT POLITICS at African American Museum, 6p.m.

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TEXAS METRO NEWS

Special friends, continued from front page

that someone else who always brought a smile to my face, Mrs. Ada Williams, died. Sure she had a way of looking at you, with such love and compassion; but it was also her words that were equally important. She told me she was proud of me. She spoke kind words that warmed my heart and at times gave me strength to continue the work I do.

Ada Williams was a special woman.

I am blessed to have met so many wonderful women during my journey and I have my sorority sister Ada Williams way up at the top of the list. She was such a kind, gentle spirit. She was always helpful and supportive.

When I think of Delta women, she is the epitome of everything we stand for.

She is also the type of woman that every female could use as a role model, because she exemplifies everything noble, gracious, loving and proper.

Another soror, Mythe Kirven, described this wonderful woman: “Ada lived her life to the fullest and enjoyed a wonderful Christmas on Monday. No one knows the hour or the day but God,

and Ada was prepared in the twinkling of an eye to meet Jesus. Today, we celebrate the legacy she leaves to so many throughout Dallas and our nation. She was, is and always will be the Parliamentarian’s Parliamentarian; the Superintendent’s Superintendent; the local, state and national President’s President; the Chairman of the Board’s Chairman; the Trustee’s Trustee; a Leader’s Leader and for sure, A Delta’s DELTA. She was/ is/always will be respected and revered as THE role model, the confidant, the mentor, the mother/grandmother/aunt, the advisor, the sister/soror extraordinaire, class personified, the supreme example of grace and dignity, the smile that keeps on giving, the best of friends.”

I am so happy to have known my dear Ada Williams. I feel honored to have shared special moments with her and I will cherish those memories forever.

As I continue on this journey with so many dynamic people who I count as my angels, I will strive to be a better person, because I am a better person, having known them.

Cheryl Smith

JANUARY 3, 2017

13

ASK ALMA: Girl, you have issues!

Dear Alma,

Dear Name Withheld,

I’ve been married for over 10 years and I’m very happy with my husband and two kids.

My husband is very kind to me. My kids are very well behaved and we have a good life. Before I got married I was in love with a man who said he would never get married and he didn’t want any kids.

I always hoped that he didn’t mean that and would marry me but he never did.

After more than a year and a half, we broke it off and I met my husband and got married.

After I got married I would see him from time to time and he stayed in touch with my brother. When he and my brother would go out, he would always ask about me to see how I was doing.

Recently my brother told me that he said he should have married me.

I know you’re gonna think I’m crazy but I can’t stop thinking about him. I think we need to have a conversation because I have so much I want to say to him.

I am trying to figure out my best option.

I could email him or reach out on Facebook.

I was thinking I could ask him to meet me. How should I contact him in a way that’s the most respectful?

Name withheld

husband wanted to have a conversation with an ex, girl pleez, we wouldn’t even be having this conversation.

You’d be accusing him of all kinds of disrespect!

Turn your twinkle toes towards what’s real and watch the video, live version of Whitney Houston, “All the Man I Need” and fall back in fabulous love with your husband.

My favorite is the one with her in a beautiful red gown, Kirk Whalum’s on the sax. It’s the concert she did for our troops. Girl, rewind it two or three times if you need to.

All the romance and attention you’re looking for is already living inside your home.

You just need to breathe new life into it.

Let that other man go, that conversation and action of sharing words, just isn’t worth the risk of losing your happy home.

I never contacted Poopie and I’m perfectly fine with that decision.

Give it some time and you will be, too.

If not, go find a BFF you can confide in, who’ll keep you on track, named Neasy!

Alma

Excuse me, did you say respectful? What exactly is respectful about a married woman trying to reconnect with an ex?

Because that’s basically all you’re trying to do. You wanna know how I know – cause I thought the same thing.

And when I did, I asked my BFF Neasy about it.

Yep, I wanted to contact my old “here he comes, I can’t breathe” high school crush named Poopie.

Girl, it was a crush like no other, LOL. Like you, I was happily married, life was good, and all I wanted to do is let him know just how much I truly loved him.

I did my best explaining and exasperating my heart and soul to Neasy and you know what she asked me: Why? Yep, just that simple.

So now I’m asking you.

Why? What if he misunderstands your actions? Is it worth your marriage, the love of your husband, the happiness of your children? If he wanted to marry you, he would have.

Ain’t no truth in shoudda, cudda, wudda.

Stop romanticizing over what you wish could have happen and live in what is happening. What is happening is that you have a loving husband and father to your children.

If circumstances were the other way around and your

Alma Gill’s newsroom experience spans more than 25 years, including various roles at USA Today, Newsday and the Washington Post. Email questions to: alwaysaskalma@gmail.com. Follow her on Facebook at “Ask Alma” and twitter @almaaskalma.

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JANUARY 3, 2017

TEXAS METRO NEWS WWW.TEXASMETRONEWS.COM 14 Vegas, NV, and Bobbie G. Edversity, Floyd met the love of his Bonanza franchise in Texas in 1972. tion. Floyd made it his priority to In Memoriam Las monds of Fort Worth, TX. During life Deborah Gordon and spent alThis opportunity would open doors hire ex-felons and offer them an opMr. Billy Ray Parnell Billy Ray Parnell received his wings December 16, 2017. He was born to the parentage of Marcus Parnell and Catherine Lane on June 30, 1949.

Billy received his education from Dallas Public Schools, graduating from Lincoln High School. The excitement of education motivated him to further his education at El Centro College.

He was a member of Cornerstone Church in South Dallas.

Billy executed the gift of gab and was the voice of the Dallas Weekly for over 15 years. He had a strong ability to convince clients toward optimal advertisement sales through high levels of determination, a positive attitude and hard work. Many clients would call just to hear his voice.

Excelling in written and verbal communications, with exceptional customer service skill; Billy advanced his career and joined forces as a sales and marketing associate with Texas Metro News, IMessenger and the Garland Journal. His pride and joy was Blogtalkradio, which inspired him to spearhead the Ask Uncle Bill radio talk show, where he could expound on life’s subjects and educate listeners on world issues. “Uncle Bill” always had an answer because he shared “Real Deal Truths about everyday happenings in the community!”

A strong advocate of his hometown in the city limits of South Dallas, Billy was instrumental in helping new entrepreneurs start their businesses. He was always willing to market their products and advise them on the best way to advertise their products.

As Billy’s health failed he continued to work because the word “quit” was not in his vocabulary.

Hats off to Crystal Care Home Health, his invaluable healthcare workers, Vera and Ramona. You ladies are amazing. Not only did you care, you became his family.

Billy was a Kidney transplant recipient and attended dialysis on a weekly basis. When the new kidney eventually failed, through it all he always stated he was blessed and never complained. He had an impeccable zest for life. He dressed for life everyday of his life; in spirit, in attitude, in his starched and cleaned attire, and more importantly in his walk with Christ.

Billy was preceded in death by his parents Marcus Parnell and Catherine Lane Wade, brother John Alvin Wade, sisters Mary Jones, Betty Winn, Jean Cooper, Faye Wilson, Delores Wade Ellis.

Touching the lives of everyone he knew, Mr. Billy Ray Parnell leaves to celebrate his Departure: his brother James Curtis (Peggy) Parnell; sister Carolyn Wade, both residents of Dallas, Tx; sons sons are Cody Parnell and Scooter; special friend Mr. Ben; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends who will miss him dearly. Services are Friday, January 5, 2018, 11am at Golden Gate Funeral Home - Dallas 4155 S. R.L. Thornton Freeway Dallas, TX 75224

Mrs. Rosie Lee Harrison Gray

Mrs. Rosie Lee Harrison Gray was born June 11, 1935 to the proud parentage of Freidsburg Harrison and Maggie Lee Davis, in Vicksburg, Mississippi. She transitioned to Heaven on December 30, 2017.

Rosie attended elementary and middle school at St. Mary Catholic School in Vicksburg, Mississippi.

She gave her life to Christ at an early age. Her mother died when she was a teenager. Thereafter, she helped her father with their family business, The Blue Front Store, until it became difficult for him to raise her and her younger sister, Jessie Mae. Rosie moved to Mound, LA, with her older brother, D.C. Marshall and his wife, Lillie. After graduating from Thomastown High School, she took nursing classes in Vicksburg, and started to work in the cotton fields and performed domestic work to earn money.

Rosie and Robert Honer Gray married in 1955 and started their family. They had six children, Robert Gray, Jr. (deceased), William Gray (Carolyn) of New Orleans, LA, Rory V. Gray (Anita) of Bowie, MD, Freidsburg Gray of Baton Rouge, LA, Bessie Gray-Jefferson (Larry) of

the difficult years of raising six children on a sharecropper’s income, Rosie taught her daughters among many things, how to sew and perform domestic housework so that they could earn money to assist the entire household with expenses, school supplies and clothing. Sister Gray also taught all of her sons how to cook, wash, and care for themselves. All of the children were taught to be responsible citizens and to trust in God at an early age.

Sister Gray was always looking for a door of opportunity so that her children could have a better lifestyle. She encouraged them to strive for excellence in education and to explore options for academic success. She motivated all of them to go beyond high school to enhance their education and to better the lives of their families and the community at large.

Sister Gray was known in the community and the church as a “Go-Getter” when it comes to living a Christian life. Rosie and her husband raised their children, instilling in them the value to respect others.

They were hard working people, placing great value in an honest day’s work. Sister Gray was a housemaid, field hand and sharecropper, daycare provider, church worker and volunteer. She helped to organize church programs and musicals, fed the hungry, babysat neighbors’ children and participated in neighborhood cleanup events.

She joined Mt. Able Missionary Baptist Church at an early age and she was served in many areas over more than 40 years of membership; as a choir member, usher, event coordinator, secretary and treasurer.

She was known as traveling musician and organizer in the religious community. Sister Gray never met a stranger and if you had a chance to meet her, you would fall in love with her personality. In her golden years, she worked as a teacher’s aide in The Little People Learning Center until she was 75 years old. She was a member of Eastern Star Pride of Heart #8. She also attended St. John Missionary Baptist Church in Grand Prairie, under the leadership of Senior Pastor Denny D. Davis.

Rosie was a grassroots leader who encouraged the young and the old in her community to register to vote and insisted that they also go to the polls to VOTE. She has received commendations from local leaders for volunteering and cleaning up the community. She has also received many awards from the church community, i.e. Humanitarian Award, Volunteer Award and the Daycare Association Daycare Teacher of the Year. Honored as the Rally for Education’s Living Legend, Sister Gray was actively involved in telling youth to stay in school, get an education, pray, be strong, and respect others and you can succeed in this life.

Her motto in life was, “God is the light of my life.”

She leaves to cherish her memory, a dear longtime friend, Rosie Johnson of Las Vegas, NV; her children, 10 grandchildren, 15 great grandchildren; and a host of nieces and nephews, and many children who she has nurtured.

Services will be held at St. John Missionary Baptist Church, 1701 West Jefferson Street in Grand Prairie, TX., Saturday, January 6, 2018 at 10am.

Floyd Bean Floyd Preston Bean, affectionately known as “Catfish Floyd”, was born on January 3, 1935 in Galveston, Texas to the late Albert and Ollie Bean. Floyd was the second of four children born to that union.

His brother, Albert Bean Jr. and sister, Clara Tatum preceded him in death.

Floyd graduated from Central High School, in Galveston, Texas, where he was a star athlete. During his high school years, he lettered in football which allowed him to receive an athletic scholarship to Texas Southern University in Houston, Texas. Floyd went on to complete his studies and football career at Southern University in Baton Rouge, Louisiana.

Floyd accepted Christ as his personal Savior at a young age and used his gifts and talents for the service of the Lord. In his early years, Floyd was a member of the Progressive Baptist Church in Galveston, Texas, where he sang in the choir. He continued his commitment to God when he joined Highland Hills United Methodist Church in Dallas, Texas, and faithfully and diligently served as a Trustee Member, a member of the United Methodist Men, and the Chancel Choir.

While attending Southern Uni-

most 60 years in marital bliss. Their union was blessed with two daughters, Rhonda and Zandra, and completing the blessings of Love, two grandsons, O.J. and Robert.

Before moving to Dallas, Floyd worked at the Falstaff Brewery in Galveston, Texas. After the Brewery transferred Floyd to Dallas, he was confident he would someday own his own business, and he planned to remain in Dallas for no more than five years. After several years as a traveling salesman, based in Dallas, he landed a position as the Director of Minority Franchises for Bonanza Steakhouse. This position also required him to travel extensively, but because he was now a family man, he leaped at the opportunity to become the first Black owner of a

for major entrepreneurship.

Along with his wife Deborah, Floyd’s ownership consisted of the Bonanza Steak House Franchise (Dallas), Polar Bear Ice Cream Franchise, three concessions at the World’s Fair, The Dallas Independent School District’s concessions, two concessions at the American Airlines Center, five concessions at the State Fair of Texas, and up to five locations of Catfish Floyd’s in the Dallas Fort Worth Metroplex.

The Bean family has been in the restaurant business since 1983 and in the food services business since 1971. For several years, Floyd donated food and volunteered his time serving the hungry at the annual Thanksgiving feast, sponsored each year by the former KKDA Radio sta-

portunity to provide for themselves and their families because he felt everyone deserved a Second Chance.

At Christmas, it was Floyd’s tradition to feed the homeless.

Floyd received numerous honors and privileges of service, but those most notable were the Post Tribune’s Businessman of the Week, the Catfish Floyd Living Legacy Award which honors the perseverance of African American Men, and his service as President of the Dallas Black Chamber of Commerce.

Floyd was a member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc., the Rough Riders Camping Club and the Texas Longhorns Camping Club. In his spare time, he enjoyed spending time with family and friends, fishing, and talking to people.

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TEXAS METRO NEWS

JANUARY 3, 2017

Top 5 HBCU Football Classics in 2017

15

By: hbculifestyle.com

Grambling-State-beats-Southern-in-Bayou-Classic

AAMU-Bulldogs-fall-to-ASU-Hornetsin-Magic-City-Classic

RANKED BY ATTENDANCE IN 2017 Every fall, thousands of college football fans travel across the country to support their favorite HBCU teams.

A record number of football fans attended HBCU Classics this year, and five HBCU Football Classics made our list based on attendance in 2017. Whether you’re interested in the marching bands, dance teams, or contentious football games that set HBCU Classics apart from regular season games, these stats will show you why black college football is one of the most popular sports at historically black colleges and universities.

5. Southern Heritage Classic: 47,407 Fans Liberty Bowl Memorial Stadium, Memphis, TN, Sept. 9, 2017 Tennessee State beats Jackson State, 17-15 Photo Credit Sam Jordan, TSU Athletics The Southern Heritage Classic earned the final spot on our list, with more than 47,000 fans in attendance.

Tennessee State University beat Jackson State University for the sixth time in a row in a contentious match

Panthers-fall-to-Grambling-in-StateFair-Classic

at Liberty Bowl Memorial Stadium.

Jackson State University ended the season at (3-8) overall, while Tennessee State University finished the season at (6-5) overall.

Fun fact: In 1997, the Southern Heritage Classic had a record attendance of 61,171 fans at the Liberty Bowl Memorial Stadium in Memphis, TN 4. Florida Classic: 47,819 Fans Camping World Stadium, Orlando, FL, Nov. 18, 2017 BCU wins against FAMU, 29-24 Bethune-Cookman's running back Larry Brihm, Jr. rushes for a fourth-quarter touchdown during the Florida Classic game in Orlando, FL. Photo credit Romeo Guzman, B-CU Athletics

The Florida Classic earned the #4 spot on our list for 2017, with more than 47,000 fans in attendance. Bethune-Cookman University beat Florida A&M University for the seventh time in a row, which has raised concerns among football fans and FAMU staff regarding the future of head coach Alex Wood.

Bethune-Cookman University finished the season at (7-4) overall, while Florida A&M University ended

BCU-wins-another-Florida-Classic- Tennessee-State-beats-Jackson-State-inagainst-FAMU Southern-Heritage-Classic

at (3-8) overall.

Fun fact: Florida A&M University has the longest winning streak in Florida Classic history (19 games in a row).

3. State Fair Classic: 55,231 Fans Cotton Bowl, Dallas, TX, Oct. 7, 2017 Grambling State beats Prairie View A&M, 34-21 Prairie View A&M falls to Grambling State in the 2017 State Fair Classic. Photo credit PV A&M Athletics.

Approximately 55,000 football fans attended the State Fair Classic in Dallas, TX to watch the Grambling State University Tigers square off against the Prairie View A&M University Panthers. Grambling State University scored a decisive victory against Prairie View A&M University after their offense scored more than 30 points in the first half of the game. Prairie View A&M finished the season at (65) overall.

Fun fact: The State Fair Classic is the largest Division 1 Football Championship Subdivision (FCS) football game in Texas.

2. Magic City Classic: 61,221 Fans Legion Field, Birmingham, AL, Oct. 29, 2017 Alabama State wins game against Alabama A&M, 21-16 The AAMU Bulldogs fall to ASU Hornets in Magic City Classic Photo credit Sidney Jackson, Alabama A&M Athletics

The Magic City Classic earned the #2 spot on our list of the top 5 HBCU football classics in 2017. The Alabama State University Hornets beat the Bulldogs as more than 60,000 football fans watched from the stands.

The Magic City Classic win was a huge achievement for the Hornets, who lost the first five games of the season. Alabama State University ended the season at (5-6) overall, while Alabama A&M University ended the season at (4-7) overall.

Fun fact: Alabama State University and Alabama A&M have competed in the Magic City Classic every year since 1945.

1. Bayou Classic: 66,550 Fans Mercedes-Benz Superdome, New

Orleans, LA, Nov. 24, 2017 Grambling State beats Southern, 3021 More than 60,000 football fans came to the Mercedes-Benz Superdome to watch the Tigers beat the Jaguars at the 44th Annual Bayou Classic.

Grambling State University was in danger of losing the game, but Martez Carter’s 11-yard touchdown led to their game-winning comeback in the fourth quarter.

Grambling State beats Southern in Bayou Classic in Mercedes-Benz Superdome in New Orleans, LA. Photo credit Southern University Athletics.

Grambling State University went on to play in the Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC) Championship against Alcorn State University, where they won 40-32. Grambling State University also beat Alcorn State University 27-20 in the 2016 championship. The Tigers ended the season at (11-1) overall, while Southern University ended at (7-4) overall.

Fun fact: The Bayou Classic (which is also known as the “Black Super Bowl”) has been nationally televised since 1991.

JANUARY 3, 2017

TEXAS METRO NEWS 16

WWW.TEXASMETRONEWS.COM

HBCU queens to be featured in Ebony,

tion doesn’t stop with them being sorority sisters. Yes, Dr. Vivian was also initiated into the Beta Alpha Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha, following in her older sister, Marva’s footsteps. Marva also served as basileus (president) of the chapter, while pursuing her chemistry degree.

And Dr. Vivian, who is an executive with Dallas County, also served as Miss FAMU in 1981-82 and appeared in the April 1982 issue of Ebony.

Son, Fred was Mr. FAMU in 201112 and most recently, he was one of the bachelors on last season’s The Bachelorette. Fred also appeared on The Steve Harvey and Ellen De-

Generes Shows.

FAMU blood runs deep in Dr. Vivian and businessman husband Frederick, who in addition to having several family members who attended FAMU, they are also the parents of a third FAMU Rattler, Erika, who just finished her first semester in Tallahassee. She is majoring in music, but has an interest in business. You may have seen or heard the talented college freshman in one of her many appearances in programs at The Black Academy of Arts and Letters.

I love the Bradley-Johnson story: Vivian and Frederick met when she was in 7th or 8th grade.

“He worked at the grocery store

where our family purchased groceries every Friday evening,” she recalled. “I think we were at the same high school together for one year. I was in the 10th grade and he was in the 12th.

“We called ourselves courting, and my parents were strict so we didn’t

Miss Florida A&M University

do too much. My grandmother liked Fred and that meant a lot to me. He was a hard worker --got up and went to work before going to high school.

He was also very respectful of the seniors and that impressed me.”

Frederick was the first in his family to go to college. He arrived on campus, focused on a grueling schedule in the renowned School of Business and Industry. He found time, however, to pledge the Alpha XI Chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc and he became president of Alpha Kappa Mu Honor Society.

While neither of Dr. Vivian’s parents attended college, they valued education and knew several educa-

continued from page 1

tors in Lake City, Florida who were FAMU graduates; so they sent their four sons and two daughters there.

A certified public accountant and entrepreneur, Frederick, or “Big Fred,” also has several relatives who attended FAMU. Too often folks throw tradition out of the window. This is just one of many families that is steeped in the great tradition that comes from attending an HBCU. As we salute these young ladies, we must do all we can to keep our HBCUs alive and thriving. Vote for Michelle Marva Johnson. Also cast a vote for the Black Press by subscribing or advertising!

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