Life Stories

Harold Robert Pierce, Jr., age 73, went home to be with the Lord on Monday, May 6, 2024 at his home after a long illness. He is survived by his beloved wife, Pearlene and together, they celebrated 35 years together. He was loved by friends and family and will be sorely missed. He was a member of Walnut Springs Baptist Church and was retired from the oilfield. There will be a Celebration of Harold's life on Sunday, May 12, 2024 at 11:00am at Walnut Springs Baptist Church, 1806 FM 1186,...

Carla B. Ponder, passed away on May 4, 2024, in Longview, Texas. Born on August 12, 1967, in Linden, Texas, Carla's zest for life and her unwavering spirit left an indelible mark on all who knew her. She was a beacon of love and joy, whose legacy will be cherished forever. Carla graduated from Marshall High School with the Class of 1985 and went on to further her education at North Carolina State University and East Texas Baptist University, where she earned a bachelor's degree in...

Jerry Donald Avant, Sr., known affectionately as Jerry to his friends and family, departed this life on May 4, 2024, at the age of 92. Born on August 23, 1931, in Gladewater, Texas, he was a son of the soil who carried the spirit of his hometown with him throughout his life. Jerry passed away in Longview, Texas, surrounded by his loving family. Jerry's journey through life was marked by dedication, love, and service. A proud Korean War veteran, he served his country with honor before...

Donivee "Donna" Bryant, a radiant beacon of love, laughter, and sass, went to be with the Lord on May 4, 2024, at the age of 84, in Tatum, TX. Born on March 5, 1940, in the quaint town of Winnie Wood, OK, her family moved to Kilgore at an early age. Donna's early years were filled with the kind of Southern charm and wit that would define her for the rest of her days. Donna's life was a masterclass in comedy and love, starting from the day she met the love of her life, Paul Bryant Sr., in...

A Life Celebration® funeral service for Simona Castro DeOlvera, will be held at 10:00 AM Wednesday, May 8th, 2024 at St. Matthew's Catholic Church. The family will receive friends for a time of visitation from 4:00 PM - 7:00 PM Tuesday, May 7th, 2024 in The Cammack Family Welch Funeral Home.

Rose Marie Dalme, known affectionately as Rose Marie to her friends and loved ones, passed away peacefully on April 30, 2024, in Jefferson, Texas. Born on January 24, 1933, in Perth Amboy, New Jersey, Rose Marie lived a vibrant life filled with passion and spirit. She left this world at the age of 91, leaving behind a legacy of love, resilience, and a zest for life that will be fondly remembered by all who had the pleasure of knowing her. Rose Marie was the cherished daughter of Leonard and...

William "Dub" H. Newton passed away at age 95 on April 29, 2024, in Plano, Texas. He was born in Marshall, Texas. Dub was a dedicated individual, known for his love of football, fishing, and car races. He will be remembered for his warm personality and love for his family. He was happiest when he was cooking something for his loved ones. Dub is survived by his wife, Anesya Newton, who recently turned 100; his step-daughter, Lynda Gary and her two daughters, Jill and Lori and grandchildren...

We come together today to celebrate the life of Mary LaWana Woods, a beacon of love and creativity in her community. Born on May 4th, 1935, in Gladewater, Texas, LaWana's journey through life was marked by devotion to her family, her faith, and her passion for art and education. She passed away peacefully on April 27th, 2024 in Longview, Texas, leaving behind a legacy of kindness and inspiration. LaWana was the cherished daughter of Merkel and LaVina Maberry. Her life was enriched by love...

Carla was born on November 15, 1957, and passed away April 22, 2024. She was preceded in death by her parents, Albert Louis, and Ouida Jo LaRue. Carla is survived by her brother, Ronald Joe LaRue, and wife Donna; nephews, Christian LaRue Boykin and wife Rachel, and Cameron Boykin; nieces, Callie, and Clara Boykin; cousins, Cindy LaRue Ottmers, Sandra LaRue Gobert, David LaRue, Rhonda LaRue Meixner, Regina LaRue, and Becky Fields Prince; and life long best friend Toni Weiss Self. Carla spent...

Larry Allen Howard, a beacon of unwavering love and spirited generosity, went to his heavenly home on April 20, 2024, at his home in Marshall, Texas, born on September 2, 1967, in Mt. Pleasant, Texas, to Mother, Ramona and Father, Larry Howard both who preceded him in death. Larry was loved by many and feared by all deer. He embodied the very essence of a life well-lived, marked by a profound devotion to God, his family, a passion for the great outdoors, and an enduring legacy as a respected...