Raymond L. Cates, 72, of Nederland passed away on Saturday, December 31, 2016 at the Medical Center of SETX.

Ray was born in New Albany, Mississippi, on March 23, 1944. He is the son of the late Lewis Ezra Cates and Jeffey Loreda Moore Cates. Ray served in the United States Marines from 1960 to 1969 and was in the National Guard from 1978 to 1980. He was in law enforcement for 35 years, serving 8 years with the Port Arthur Police Department and 27 years with the Jefferson County Sheriff’s office.

Those left to cherish Ray’s memory are his loving wife, Norma L. Cates of Nederland; children, Michelle Stephenson and husband, Paul of Beaumont; Troy Cates and wife, Joy of Porter, TX, Brian Cates and wife, Traci of Port Neches, Kelly White and husband, Joel of Kingwood, TX; sisters, Becky Wuenschel and husband, Carl of Port Acres and Sherri Cates of Port Arthur; grandchildren, Sarah Fondrich and husband, Michael, Rebekah Stephenson, Matthew Stephenson, Carli Cates, Jacob Cates, Abigail Cates, Austin White, Anna Claire White, Carson White and a host loving nieces and nephews. Ray is preceded in death by his parents; sisters, Barbara Torres and Rita Greene

There will be gathering of family and friends on Tuesday, January 3, 2017 from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Melancon’s Funeral Home in Nederland. The funeral service will be Wednesday, January 4, 2017 at Procter Baptist Church in Port Arthur at 10:00 a.m. with an interment at Greenlawn Memorial Park in Groves.

Online guest registry available at www.melancons.org

Comments:  Ray was a classmate and an old Marine Buddy.  Semper Fi, old friend. -- Wayne Taylor

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To the loved ones of Raymond my love, thoughts and prayers are with you as we honor the life of Raymond. Brian, my thoughts are with you knowing your Dad and I attended the same school together as you and Christy have.
Love you Brian.
Charlotte Metreyeon

http://www.kleinfh.com/memsol.cgi?user_id=1847220

Life Legacy

It’s been said by many on several occasions that because of Sue Stokes Greenman’s contagiously vibrant energy, “She never met a stranger”.

She was born on September 27th, 1943 in Port Arthur, Texas to her beaming parents, Rose and Charlie Stokes, and baby sister to Lynda Stokes. Growing up in Port Arthur, she made several life long friends and attended Thomas Jefferson High School, where she was a Drum Majorette and baton twirler for a number of years. She met and married her high school sweetheart and coincidental neighbor, Terry Segura, in spring of 1962. The birth of her three beautiful daughters, Karen, Betsy, and Ellen, soon followed.

Eventually the family moved to the North West side of Houston, where she raised her children and served her community in several ways; She was the Girl Scout Leader of her eldest daughter’s troupe, a Life Guard, and even a drummer in her church orchestra at Garden Oaks Baptist. In her free time, she was also a skilled seamstress, sewing many beautiful dresses for her three girls (which can be seen in many of their grade school photos).

Sue was fortunate to have had two chances at love and marriage in her life. She met her second husband, John Greenman, in a singles class at their mutual church and married shortly thereafter on Valentine’s Day, 1981. Sue also gained a fourth daughter that day, Marie. John and Sue recently celebrated their 35th wedding anniversary.

Sue possessed many ambitious entrepreneurial qualities, which lead to her success as a Manager of Sales and class development at the Dale Carnegie Institute and then eventually became the owner and operator of a Sylvan Learning Center Franchise in the Champions Forest area of Houston, along with her husband. Sue always said she loved her job and the people she met and worked with along the way. She kept this business alive and thriving for 25 years, until she retired in 2008.

Sue was also a beloved and incredibly proud Grandmother (Grammy) to 10 grandchildren, 5 great-grandchildren and 5 grandchildren-in-law over the past 32 years. She never missed an opportunity to show her love and support to each of them the best way she knew how, by being involved in their lives and hosting some great sleepovers and birthday parties.

In retirement, Sue and John enjoyed much of their time reading by their pool with their treasured Dachshunds (previously with “Gracie” and recently “Tootsie”) and traveling. She also kept busy serving on many committees at First Baptist Church of Tomball and taught a Sunday school class.

Sue was a dignified and vibrant Christian woman, mixed with her headstrong ways and even softer, loving heart. As we honor Sue’s life, her favorite singer and longtime idol, Elvis, likely sang it best how she would want you to remember her: “Love me tender, love me sweet, never let me go. You have made my life complete, and I love you so.”

Her Guestbook can be viewed and signed here.

http://www.kleinfh.com/memsol.cgi?user_id=1847220

What a fabulous lady.  She never missed a Reunion and she loved the Class of 1962.

The 3 middle photos above sent by her granddaughter, Brittany Djie. Thank you so much.

Brian Engholm

Published 1:00 pm Friday, June 3, 2016

Diane Norvell Bates

Diane Norvell Bates, 72, of Bridge City passed away Saturday, May 21, 2016 at her home surrounded by her family.  She was born on December 30, 1943 in Port Arthur, Texas to Graham Norvell and Estelle Deason Norvell.

Diane was a lifelong resident of this area and a Senior Loan Officer with Gulf Employees Credit Union with 32 years of service.  Diane enjoyed spending time with her family and friends. She loved the beach, music and a good rain storm. Her hobbies included sewing, playing dominos and watching her flowers grow.

Funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m., Tuesday, May 24, 2016 at Levingston Funeral Home in Groves with Mr. Tom Hicklin of Golden Triangle Church of Christ officiating. Burial will follow in Oak Bluff Memorial Park.

A visitation for family and friends will be Monday evening from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. at the funeral home.

Diane is survived by her husband of 53 years, Ralph Bates of Bridge City, three daughters, Cynthia Anselmo and husband, Charlie of Groves, Juli K. Cook of Groves, and Rebecca Pitre and husband, Ricky of Groves, brother, Douglas Norvell and wife, Mary of Nauvoo, IL, sister in law, Leah Brumley of Houston, eight grandchildren, Katy, Jessica, Maegan, Kelsey, Nathan, Barron, Chas, and Harlan, two great grandchildren, Rylee Mae and Greenleigh and several nieces and nephews.

A special thank you to the doctors and staff of M.D. Anderson Hospital.

Friends wishing to make memorial contributions may send them to: The Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, Texas Gulf Coast Chapter, 5005 Mitchelldale, Suite 115, Houston, Tx 77092.

The Guestbook can be signed at ... 

 http://www.levingstonfuneralhome.com/_mgxroot/page_10780.php?id=1620518

Comments:  

Milton was born April 14, 1944 to the late Carl Melton Haney and Helen Christine Deaver Haney in Ft. Worth and lived in the Port Arthur area for 64 years. He retired from Local 195 Pipefitters and served in Law Enforcement in the Port Arthur area. He also served in the U.S. Marine Reserves.

Milton is survived by his daughters, LeAnn Chisholm and husband Chris of Little Cypress, and Mari Hunt and husband Johnny of Groves; son, Jeff Haney of Magnolia; sisters, Norma Cates and husband Ray of Nederland, and Pat Bagwell of Jasper; nine grandchildren and eleven great grandchildren.

To leave Condolences - http://www.melancons.org/obituaries/Milton-Haney/#!/Obituary

Comments:  So Long old classmate, fellow Marine, and old friend.  - Wayne Taylor

Luther A. Odom, Jr.

March 8, 1944 – March 12, 2016

Luther Odom passed away from congestive heart failure early Saturday morning, March 12, 2016.  He grew up in Griffing Park in Port Arthur and graduated from Thomas Jefferson High School in the Class of ‘62.  He was predeceased by his parents, Luther and Lois Odom. Survivors include:  his sister Linda Thibodeau of Onalaska, his son Aaron and wife Marta, and their son Aaron Odom, Jr.  Luther’s daughters include Courtney Odom, Melanie Comegys & Kristie Odom of Houston.

He was a graduate of Lamar University and taught at Houston Community College for many years. Following his service in the Army, where he was a decorated Vietnam veteran, he had a successful career in law enforcement until his retirement.

Luther was well liked, had a wicked sense of humor and was a fiercely loyal friend. He adored his grandson.  He liked his animals more than most people and they him. Unfortunately, his dementia robbed him of the enjoyment of his last years but thanks to his son Aaron he was given the best possible care anyone could have. No services are planned at the present time.

Friends are asked to send condolence cards to his son:  Aaron Odom, P.O. Box 458, Porter TX 77365.

Our classmate, Ben Beauchamp, sent this notice about his dear friend Luther’s passing.  Thanks, Benny.  We know how difficult it is to lose our old friends!  We are thinking of you. 

Renell Maria Perron, 71, of Port Arthur, Texas passed away Friday, March 4, 2016 at Harbor Hospice Hospital in Beaumont, Texas.

Renell was born September 23, 1944 in Port Arthur, Texas to Rene Joseph d'Audereau and Verna Broussard. Her father was killed in action when she was one and she was raised by Alto Berry Smith, Sr.
She was a lifelong area resident and member of St. Catherine Catholic Church.  She was a teacher and retired after 30 years of service. Her teaching career included DeQueen Elementary School and Lamar University, she was also a member of Port Arthur Teachers Association. She was recognized for her years of service, and was named Teacher of the Year.

Renell was preceded in death by her parents; sister, Christine Hood; and brother, Alto Berry Smith, Jr.  Survivors include her husband of 53 years, Malcolm Perron of Port Arthur; three sons, Rahn Perron of Groves, Shawn Perron of Mauriceville, Chad Perron and Meagan of Groves; two grandchildren, Tanner Perron and Julian Perron; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Funeral services were Tuesday, March 8, 2016 at 2:00 p.m., at Levingston Funeral Home in Groves with Monsignor Dan Malain officiating. Burial will follow at Memory Gardens Cemetery.

A visitation for family and friends was held on Monday evening from 5:00 p.m.-7:00 p.m. with a Rosary at 6:00 p.m. at the funeral home.

Comments:  Wayne Taylor - Renell was a ball of fire and really loved the Reunions.  When she said she was glad to see you, she meant it.  So long old friend.

Born: August 25, 1944
Died: January 06, 2016

Funeral services for Billy Frank Feltman, 71, of Lufkin will be held Monday, January 11, 2016 at 10:00 a.m. in the Carroway Funeral Home Chapel with Brother Swain Barker officiating. Graveside services with military honors will follow in the Garden of Memories Memorial Park.

Billy Frank Feltman passed away at his home in Lufkin Wednesday, January 6, 2016. He was born August 25, 1944 in Port Artur, Texas to the late Edwin Franklin and Myrtis Rebecca (Perry) Feltman. Following graduation from Thomas Jefferson High School, Billy joined the United States Air Force at age 17 and was stationed in Germany. After being honorably discharged from the Air Force, he then attended Stephen F. Austin State University, graduating in 1970 with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Education and Rehabilitation. In 1974, Billy graduated as part of the first class of students to attend and complete the Master’s Degree program for Rehabilitation Counselors. Billy made his home in Lufkin where he worked for the State of Texas as a Public Welfare Worker prior to becoming a Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor with the Department of Assistive and Rehabilitative Services where he retired as an Area Manager after 27 years of service. Billy then earned his Certified Rehabilitation Counselor credentials and enjoyed 10 years as an Employment Specialist with Goodwill Industries in Lufkin.

If not hunting or fishing with family and friends, Billy could be found hosting parties and entertaining. He was a talented musician who wrote and performed a number of songs including “Pokey The Lazy Elf” which he produced and recorded. Billy performed for years and had a loyal following at Rayburn Country in Brookeland, Texas and The Wurst Haus in Hudson, Texas.

Billy is survived by Janet, his wife of 18 years; his sister and brother-in-law, Doris and Carl Bilderback of Pottsboro; daughters and sons-in-law, Julie and John England of Colmesneil, Jennifer and John Quine of Kilgore, Casie and John Matthews of Hudson, and Chelsie and Eric Page of Lufkin; daughter, Carrie Glaze of Quinlin; and grandchildren, McKenzie Rogers, Sara England, Kenedy Rogers, John Wesley Matthews, Kyla Page, Maggie Quine, Jeffrey Matthews, Reagan Gragg, Molly Quine, Seth Gragg, Jr., Kaleb Page, and Ellie Page; as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

Billy was preceded in death by his mother and father; his sister, Dian Goodman; and his brothers, Jack Feltman and Steve Feltman.

Pallbearers will be John Quine, John England, John Matthews, Eric Page, Tim Feltman, Mark Feltman, Jack Feltman, Jr., and Larry Westby.

Honorary pallbearers will be Dave Bates, Bobby Dotson and Kyle Dotson.

The family would like to express our deepest appreciation for the care provided by the nurses and staff of Hospice in the Pines, Jimmy and the staff at Meals on Wheels of Lufkin, and Dr. Michael Huber and his nurse Theresa Havard.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Hospice in the Pines, 1504 W. Frank Avenue, Lufkin, Texas 75904, Meals on Wheels, c/o Angelina County Senior Citizens Center, 2801 Valley Drive, Lufkin, Texas 75901, or to the Parkinson’s Disease Foundation, 1359 Broadway, Suite 1509, New York, NY 10018, or online at www.pdf.org.

The family will welcome friends and loved ones from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m. Sunday evening at the funeral home.

Memories and condolences may be added, and live webcasting of the services may be viewed at www.carrowayfuneralhome.com.   Carroway Funeral Home, Lufkin, directors.

A close friend of his, Dave Bates painted this wonderful picture of Billy.  It captured him perfectly.

Comments:  

As some guys will recall, I was really feisty in PE Class.  In early Spring 1962, after the season, the football players were in our class period.  Coach Smitty Hill proposed that I choose up some guys and play the football players in a game of touch football in a class period.  I picked some good players but we were not the class athletes they were.  

They surged ahead of us.  At one point, I ran a long touchdown to tie them up.  I recall I was running down the sideline, David Bankston, (63) had me cornered, I did a studder-step to go around him and score.  They scored again to go one score ahead of us, with time running out in the period.  I was driving down the field for the tying score when my friend, Jerry Kidd, intercepted me, and they held the ball until the time ran out. I whined that "we had you guys until that pass was intercepted."

At some point, Billy Feltman challenged me to a game of tackle one day after school where I would have a chance to prove who was best.  We picked Lee School as the site.  I brought some big guys, like Gerald Thibodeaux and Phillip McCullough, who were big but not football players, the type of guys he brought.

They whipped us pretty good, I recall I was never tackled so hard in my life.  My poor guys on the line were beaten badly by his guys who knew how to block.  It was a learning experience.

Fast forward to our reunion of 1997.  I asked Billy if he remembered a certain tackle football game we played at Lee School.  He said he remembered it well.  He told me, "I was impressed, you played hard and never quit."

I like to think of those last words he related to me, someone who could remember a game so long ago that is still in my memory today.

So long, old friend.

Wayne Taylor

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Loron Ernest Truett

8-11-43 - 10-8-15

He was born in Port Arthur, Texas on August 11, 1943, to the late Robert Truett and Marguerite Haston Truett-Phalen. Loron graduated from Thomas Jefferson High School and attended Lamar College and San Jacinto College. He was a member of Pipefitters Local 195 and was a certified API 510 Inspector. 

Loron was a veteran of the U.S. Army. He was also a member of the United Methodist Temple in Port Arthur, Texas. 

Loron is survived by his wife, Judith Truett; daughters, Stephanie Truett of Houston, and Tiffany Truett of Spring; son, Matthew Truett and his wife, Jana, of Nederland; sister, Priscilla Irvine and her husband, Ted of Port Arthur; and Loron's pride and joy, grandson, Rhett Thomas Truett of Nederland. 

Funeral services will be held at Levingston Funeral Home in Groves, Texas on Wednesday, October 14, 2015 at 10:00 AM with Reverend Adam Muckleroy officiating. Burial will be at 2:00 PM at the Truett Family Cemetery in Jasper, Texas. A visitation for family and friends will be on Tuesday evening from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be sent to: Limbs For Life Foundation, 9604 N. May Avenue, Oklahoma City, OK 73120. - 

Patrick Henry Belanger

10-6-15

Patrick Henry Belanger, 71, of Bridge City, Texas, and longtime resident of Port Arthur, Texas passed away on October 6, 2015, at the Medical Center of SETX, in Port Arthur.

Born in Port Arthur, Texas, on December 20, 1943, he was the son of Minor Belanger and Elizabeth Ann Cillessen. Patrick enjoyed woodworking projects; he was very smart and crafty, and loved children. Patrick was a master electrician, and worked for IBEW for 42 years, he was also in the Army Reserves.

Patrick was proceeded in death by his parents and his brother David Belanger, and is survived by; his brother, Michael Belanger; his sons, Adam Belanger, Jacob Belanger, and Matthew Belanger; and grandchildren, Nicole Belanger, Michael Belanger, Damien Belanger, and Crystal Belanger.

Cremation is under the direction of Claybar Haven of Rest Crematory.

The Guestbook can be signed here.....

http://www.claybarfuneralhome.com/obituaries/Patrick-Belanger/#!/Obituary

This is truly an iconic photo of TJ Graduates.  It was taken June 11, 2015 at the Funeral of a TJ Class of 61 Grad, James Rogers.  

Pictured are:  Mickey Breaux Class 64, Mike Doyle Class 63, Hugh Weeks Class 60 (left us 2016), John Lewallen Class 63, Joe Columbo Class 59, and Huey Latiolais Class 61.  The picture was taken by Wayne Taylor Class 62.

At the funeral, a special tribute was given by Deanna Taylor Laughlin, who had known James Rogers her entire life, since she could crawl.  This is what she said:

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Prologue

Before I begin reading what I have prepared today, I need to take a moment to thank my dad Wayne Taylor for his input and all of the information he provided to me for my poem.  [Wayne, can you raise your hand?]

He has been friends with James Rogers for probably every bit of 60 years (67).  Amazingly, at age 72, he remembers the life of James to the detail that is hard to even fathom.  He could literally write “The Book of James.” 

He knew all of the places that James has worked, the years he worked there, and his occupation at those places.

He remembers all of the places James was stationed while in the Army, and the years he spent there.  In fact, he has even brought a copy of James’ military honorable discharge papers here with him today.  Luckily he is a pack rat.

He knows every car that James has ever owned, including the make, model, year, color, and even the engine that was in it.  In fact, he still has the engine to a 1956 Chevy 2-door that James once owned.  And to clarify something mentioned earlier – it was a 1965 Plymouth Barracuda – and it was gold with a racing stripe down the middle.

We can’t all be as lucky as James to have lifelong friends like that, but luckily I am – and that’s his daughter Tricia.

In the words of James Rogers:

What would I say to you today

If I could wash your tears away?

Don’t cry now, I’m happy you see

But let me tell you a few things about me.

I was Lee Majors, the six million dollar man

Colonel Steve Austin, with bionic hands

As a kid I played baseball with my best friend Wayne

We were the 1959 city champs – I even hit a homerun that year,

but not in that game

I worked for the railroad

I worked at Gulf

I used my hands to build cabinets and such

I was in the army, I went over seas

Even bought a green Volkswagen bug in Germany

I shipped it home to the USA

I always did things big that way

I drag raced my gold 65 Plymouth Barracuda down Hwy 347

Even won some trophies – man that was pure heaven

I loved to shoot pool, I was the best around

I won some money all over town

I had fishing boats with big motors that went fast

But there was nothing better than catching a bass.

I had cars, trucks, SUVs, RVs, and vans

Firebirds, Corvettes, Blazers, and Trans Ams

Every time I got a car with a new name

I couldn’t wait to show it to my buddy Wayne

I changed up my motors against his advice

But I wanted them faster – that was my life.

And when I got tired of buying boats and fast cars

I went down to Gulfway Drive and bought me a bar

I had swimming pools in some of my many homes

But I never stayed long – I was a rolling stone.

I loved the ladies – no doubt about that

But I only gave my heart to a woman named Pat

When I would go to Tricia’s shop

The girls would all ask “What you drivin’ today Pop?”

I was a lucky man, with a great family

The fact they are all here must say a lot about me.

My 8 brothers and sisters were close to my heart

We were separated by distance, but never apart.

Troy, Tricia, and Tara – you’ll be just fine

After all – you came from me - you were also mine.

To my grandkids Logan, Drake, Phoebe, Miranda, and Colton – you will succeed

You’ll be the best at everything  – because you also came from me.

Whenever you get down and blue

Just buy something new – like I would do

It goes by fast – so don’t drive slow

Live life to the fullest, until it’s time to go.

In my life, I’ve had it all

I lived big – did nothing small

I did not suffer from a terrible disease

Although my bionic hands got tired and I had bad knees

I died with my pride – happy and free

Just how I wanted the ending to be

I made all the news – I went out with a bang

I was a star – they’ll remember my name.

I know it’s hard to say goodbye

But don’t cry for long, cuz man I had a GREAT ride.

Love, Deedee

Anita M. Higginbotham, 90, formerly of Groves, Texas passed away Tuesday, May 5, 2015 in Columbus, Ohio.
Anita was born April 15, 1925 in Merryville, Louisiana to Everette Ford Montgomery and Sally Karr Montgomery. She was a longtime area resident before moving to Columbus, Ohio. She was a retired school teacher, having taught for many years in the Port Arthur and Fairview Park, Ohio school districts.

Anita was a former member of the United Methodist Temple and held membership in the following organizations, Order of Eastern Star, Port Arthur Department Club, Historical Society, Port Arthur Club, Port Arthur Country Club, and Museum of the Gulf Coast.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Douglas C. Higginbotham and sister, Dolores Bruce of Little Rock, AR.

Survivors include three sons, Douglas Ford Higginbotham and wife Susan of Las Vegas, NV, Philip Howard Higginbotham and wife Betsy of Columbus, OH, and John Timothy Higginbotham and wife Karen of Dallas, TX; and six grandchildren.

A graveside service at Greenlawn Memorial Park will be at 11:00 a.m., Wednesday, May 20, 2015 with Reverend Jeff Hastings officiating under the direction of Levingston Funeral Home in Groves.

Dexter Michael Patterson

Dexter Michael Patterson - August 23, 1944  -  May 12, 2015

Dexter M. Patterson, Attorney at law, 70, formerly of The Woodlands, Texas passed away May 12, 2015 in Abilene, Texas following a lengthy illness.

Graveside services will be held Thursday, May 14 at 2:00 PM at Elmwood Memorial Park, under the direction of Elmwood Funeral Home.

Dexter was proceeded in death by his father, Herbert O. Patterson; mother Mae Dell Patterson; and brother Wayne Patterson. Dexter practiced law for 37 years in Jefferson County and Montgomery County. He was a proud graduate of Baylor Law School. During his career he served on the State Bar of Texas Grievance Committee, was a Special Prosecutor for Orange County, an Assistant Criminal D.A. in Jefferson County but he served the majority of career as a sole practitioner, Board Certified by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization in Family Law and Criminal Law. Dexter loved the law and the art of "lawyering."

Dexter had a great voice to accent his skills as a lawyer. He never learned to whisper and his laugh was infectious. He enjoyed his trips to Louisiana in pursuit of hitting the "big one." Dexter found contentment in his home, his family, and his dogs.

Dexter is survived by his wife, Vicki; daughter, Heather Patterson Ogden, grandson, Andrew Shofner; brother-in-law Mike Babington and wife Kay; nephews Justin and Jamie Babington; many friends who loved him as family.

Wayne Taylor

Linda Melancon Hyde born on September 25, 1943, and passed away on December 21, 2014. She lived in Bogalusa, Louisiana. She grew up in Port Arthur, Texas.

Mother of Michelle Pierce Hebert and grandma to Antonella “Nelly” Hebert and Caurnest “Joey” Hebert. Sister of Madelyn “Pokey” Thibodeaux, Jerry Melancon.  Proceeded in death by Brother Freddie Melancon, Mother Ruby Melancon, and Father Freddy Melancon.

A Celebration of Life for Linda was held on Saturday, January 10 at 2 p.m. at the Fraternal Order of Eagles on Nederland Ave. in Port Neches, TX.  

At the Celebration of Life, there was joy, sadness and remembrance.  I sat down with her sister Madelyn to fill us in on what happened in Linda's life since she left this area long ago.  She was gracious enough to provide us with these facts.

Linda had married another of our classmates, Marshall "Sonny" Pierce.  After having daughter Michelle, they later divorced and she moved first to the New Orleans area, later to  Bogalusa.  She enjoyed fishing and taking trips around Louisiana with Michelle and Madelyn. 

Her health problems began and she had various illnesses that eventually took their toll on her.  But all along the way, she had the love and support of her family, she gave it back in return.

At the Celebration of Life, family friend Les Love gladly provided music.  Plenty of good food was provided.  Many of the friends attending were old friends from way back in her life, Junior High and High School..  She would be proud to know that these old friends remained her friends forever. 

A few photos of friends at Linda's Celebration of Life held at The Eagles on January 10, 2015.

Martin Wayon Hefley

August 5, 1944 – November 12, 2014

Martin Wayon Hefley, 70, of Bryan, went to be with his Lord on Wednesday, November 12, 2014. A time for family to receive friends will be from 3:00 to 5:00 p.m. on Sunday, November 16, 2014 at Hillier Funeral Home, 2301 E. 29th Street in Bryan. Celebration of life service will be at 10:00 a.m. on Monday, November 17, 2014 also at the funeral home with Rev. Rick Sitton officiating. Interment will follow at Aggie Field of Honor.

Martin was born on August 5, 1944 in Mineral Wells to John and Wanda (Hines) Hefley. He grew up in Port Arthur and graduated from Thomas Jefferson High School in 1962. Martin went on to attend Texas A&M University, graduating with a Bachelor’s in Business in 1966 and with an MBA in 1967. He was a member of the Corp of Cadets while at Texas A&M and went on to serve in the U.S. Army from 1968 to 1970. Martin worked for Sun Oil Company in Dallas for over 20 years. Following a move to North Carolina, he worked as the Director of Security for the North Carolina Department of Revenue and retired after 15 years of service.

While attending Texas A&M, Martin met the love of his life, Mary Sue Baker, on a blind date his senior year. They were married on February 11, 1967 and together they raised two sons. After Martin’s retirement in 2006, Martin and Mary Sue moved back to Bryan. He was a proud supporter of all things Texas A&M, especially being a second generation Aggie and continuing the legacy with his oldest son. He loved to travel and the family visited all 50 states with stops at many National Parks and Forts along the way. Martin was also a member of First United Methodist Church in Bryan.

Martin leaves behind his loving wife of 47 years, Mary Sue Hefley; sons, Jeff Hefley and wife, Debbie of Spring and Michael Hefley of Bryan; sister, Ann Boriskie and husband, Don of Atlanta, GA; nieces, Dr. Amy Hair and husband, Dr. Clark Hair of Houston and Laurie Sandlin and husband, Doug of Boulder, CO; nephew, Dr. Barry Boriskie of Columbia, SC and great-niece, Emma Hair. He is preceded in death by his parents.

Please share memories and tributes to Martin at www.hillierfuneralhome.com.

Comments:  (Some very nice comments at the Funeral Home ...)

I don't think I ever knew him until the Reunions but he was a very nice guy then.

Wayne Taylor