John Kennith Magness passed peacefully at his home in Austin on Friday, June 13, 2008. Kennith was 65, and spent the last ten years of his life in Austin, after growing up and living many years in Bridge City and Orange, Texas. To his last day, Kennith was a Union Pipefitter and proud of it. He was also a lifelong and loyal supporter of the Longhorns, and was never shy about sharing his opinions on how the football coach could do a better job. Kennith was beloved by his family and friends. He would regularly drive us crazy, but then he would always end up beloved again. We will miss him, and his life will give us stories to tell for years to come. Kennith was born in Sulphur, Louisiana, and was a graduate of Bridge City High School. He was preceded in death by his father John Cates Magness and his mother Una Marie Magness. He is survived by his son, Donald Lee Magness; grandchildren, Shelby Thibodeaux, Lanie Marange, and Mason Marange; stepmother, Lida Magness; and his brothers, sisters, and numerous nephews, nieces, and cousins. A celebration of his life will be held at 10:00 AM on Wednesday, June 18th at the Wilke-Clay-Fish Funeral Home, 2620 South Congress in Austin, Texas. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to the Recording for the Blind and Dyslexic, 1314 W. 45th Street, Austin, Tx 78755.
Byron “Pete” Yoakum, 57, of Seabrook died Wednesday, May 14, 2008 at his residence.
Pete was born October 14, 1950 in Port Neches to Bradley Sr. and Gloria Yoakum. He lived most of his life in Port Neches until moving to Seabrook 15 years ago. He was a pipe fitter for Rohm and Haas with 18 years of service. A gathering of family and friends will be from 9 to 11 AM Saturday at Broussard’s in Nederland with a cremation to be held later at Broussard’s Crematorium in Beaumont.Pete was preceded in death by his brother, Bradley Yoakum Jr. and his parents. He is survived by two daughters, Emily Racca and her husband Steve, and Kim Sweeney; one sister, Linda Reed, also three grandchildren.
Clayton Ray Richard, 35, of Port Arthur, Texas passed away on Monday, March 24, 2008 at his home in Irving, Texas. He was born in Port Arthur, Texas on September 18, 1972 to Rachel Morris Richard and Ray Richard. He graduated from Bridge City High School in 1991 and Lamar University in 1996 with a degree in Criminal Justice. He was a member of Sigma Phi Epsilon Fraternity. Clayton was employed as a Sales Representative with Time Warner Media Sales for over 5 years and was recently transferred to the Dallas area. He loved golf, hunting, family and friends and his dogs. Visitation will be on Thursday, March 27, 2008 from 5 P.M. to 8 P.M. at Clayton Thompson Funeral Home. Funeral Service will be on Friday, March 28, 2008 at 2:00 P.M. in the Thompson Memorial Chapel at Clayton Thompson with Rev. Walter Montondon, officiating. Burial will follow in Greenlawn Memorial Park. He is survived by his parents Ray and Rachel Richard of Port Arthur, Texas, his brothers Michael Richard of Bridge City, Texas and James Richard of Groves, Texas along with his aunts Sandra Mertens, Jean Glasscock, Gail Salem and Patricia Schneller and his uncle V. J. Morris as well as his great aunt Rachel Smith and great uncle Jim Poochie Darby and wife Trella along with numerous cousins. The BCHS class of 1991 will miss our friend dearly. We appreciate the work he did on our reunion committee.
Ben D. Hare, 62, died November 29, 2007, after complications from cancer. He was born on August, 11, 1945, in Miami, FL, to Aubrey Dean and Betty Marie Hare of Bridge City, TX, while his father was stationed in Miami during World War II. Ben has always said they got him back to Texas as fast as they could. Ben graduated from Lamar University, Beaumont, TX, with a B.S. in geology and went on to the University of Oklahoma to receive his M.S. and Ph.D. in Geology in 1973. He married Carol R. Gardner on June 19, 1971, in Norman, OK. He began his career in Tulsa, OK, with Amerada Hess Corporation as a senior geologist. He went on to work for Atlantic Richfield Corporation (ARCO) in Los Angeles, Denver, Dallas, and Anchorage, Alaska, from Senior Geologist to Anchor Fields Exploration Manager. In between he was Exploration manager and Senior geologist for Edwin L. Cox Oil and Gas Producers in Dallas and Lake Ronel Oil Company in Tyler, TX. He was instrumental in starting up ARCO’s independent oil company Vastar in Houston as Onshore Exploration/Exploitation Manager and Senior Geologist. When British Petroleum took over ARCO, he formed his own consulting firm and worked in partnership with Legends Exploration run by Denny Bartell, another OU graduate. In 2004 he moved to Oklahoma City as Chief Operating Officer of Panhandle Royalty Company and in March 2006 also became Co-President. He and his Co-President, Michael Coffman, added new corporate direction and were instrumental in changing the company name to Panhandle Oil and Gas Company. He was a licensed Texas Geoscientist. As a member of the American Association of Petroleum Geologists, he was a Certified Petroleum Geologist, served as Chairman on several committees, and received a Distinguished Service Award in 2001. At OU he has served as Director and Chairman of the Alumni Advisory Council, School of Geology and Geophysics; Director and Chairman of the Board of Visitors, College of Geosciences; and part of the Presidential Task Force for the university. Over the years, he has recruited and encouraged dozens of young geologists and geophysists. He is survived by his wife Carol in Oklahoma City; his son Christopher Coleman Hare and wife Beth in Sydney, Australia; his son Patrick Hare and wife Shannon in Austin, TX, and their children. A memorial service was held Saturday, December 1, 2007 at Smith and Kernke Funeral Home in Oklahoma City. Graveside services were held for the family and close friends through Sam Harvey Funeral Home of Mt. Vernon, TX, at Sulphur Bluff Cemetary in Sulphur Bluff, TX, on December 2. Memorial contributions may be made to the Youngblood Geology Library Fund, The University of Oklahoma Foundation, Inc., 100 Timberdell Road, Norman, Oklahoma, 73109-0685. Also, OU, with the support of the Naresh Kumar family and Panhandle Oil and Gas Company, has established a “Ben Hare Award for Excellence in Geology and Geophysics” to provide a $250.00 prize to a graduate student in perpetuity for “creative application of principles of geology and geophysics.” Any further funds contributed will increase the award amount. Either fund will be appreciated in lieu of flowers.
Loni Joe` Bean, 24, of Orange, passed away, Friday, December 21, 2007 in Orange. Funeral Service will be Wednesday, December 26, 2007 at 11:00 a.m. at Claybar Funeral Home Chapel in Bridge City. Officiating will be the Reverend Jay Thomas of MacArthur Heights Baptist Church in Orange. Visitation will be held from 9:00 to 11:00 a.m., Wednesday at the funeral home. Cremation will be under the direction of Claybar Haven of Rest. Loni was born December 19, 1983 in Galveston to Mike Bean and Suzanne Campbell Bean. She was employed at The Meadows Nursing Home & Rehab where she worked as a Certified Nursing Assistant. She loved music and her cat, Nala. Loni was preceded in death by her grandfather, Joe Bean and grandmother, Helaeha Reed. She is survived by her parents, Mike and Suzanne Bean, grandmother Bessie Bean of Houston, and grandfather James Reed of Orange. Also surviving Loni are her brothers, Aaron Scalf and wife Stacey of Pt. Orchard, WA, Mark Bean and wife Melissa of Ponca City, OK, Jeff Bean, and Matthew Bean of Galveston.
Catherine Elaine Flowers Bayless left this earth to live with her Heavenly Father and her earthly father, William B. Flowers, on September 4, 2007, after fighting a courageous battle against lung cancer. Services will be 10:00 a.m., Saturday, September 8, 2007, at Claybar Funeral Home Chapel in Bridge City. Brother Keith Royal of Winfree Baptist Church and Donald Toutcheque of Clute, her first cousin will officiate, followed by a burial service at Hillcrest Memorial Gardens in Bridge City. Visitation will be 6:00-8:00 p.m., Friday at the funeral home. She was born February 8, 1954, in Port Arthur, to William B. and Mary V. (Martin) Flowers of Bridge City. She graduated from Bridge City High School in 1972 and served her country in the United States Army. She was a free-spirited woman with infectious laugh and a radiant smile. She touched many lives through her illness and will be remembered for the positive way she fought it. She loved the Beatles, gardening and being outdoors. She was preceded in death by her dad, William B. Flowers, husband, Dick Bayless, grandparents, Henry and Myrtle Martin and Elma Goudhooft. Cathy is survived by her mother, Mary, her four siblings, Jim and Beckie Flowers of Lake Charles, Margaret Flowers Robinson of Orange, Gary and Laura Flowers of Bridge City, and Lisa and Larry Jernigan of The Woodlands, as well as her children: Angela and Jon Dunn of Salt Lake City, UT, Jason Huckaby of Beverly Hills, CA, and Emilie Anne Bayless of San Antonio. She is also survived by her precious grandchildren, Sophie and Audry Dunn and Rickey Bayless, as well as numerous nieces, nephews and extended family. The family would like to express sincere gratitude and thanks to VistaCare Hospice of San Antonio and Odyssey Hospice of Beaumont. Those angels took such good care our sister and daughter. Should friends desire, Memorial Contributions may be made to Odyssey Hospice of Beaumont. 550 Fannin St Ste 1230, Beaumont, TX
Murphy Wade Peart, 48, of Bridge City, died, Wednesday, August 08, 2007, at Memorial Hermann Baptist Hospital in Orange. Graveside service will be 2:00 p.m. Friday, August 10, 2007, at Hillcrest Memorial Gardens. Reverend Jeff Bell of Cove Baptist Church will officiate. Visitation will be 5:00-8:00 p.m. Thursday at Claybar Funeral Home in Bridge City. Mr. Peart was born September 10, 1958, in Orange, to Freeman Eugene Peart and John Eva (Fletcher) Peart. Mr. Peart was a member of Pipefitters Local 195 for 30 years. He was preceded in death by his mother, John Eva Peart. He is survived by his father, F. E. Peart, three nieces, three nephews and great niece and great nephew. Serving as pallbearers will be Nedd Reese, F. T. Also surviving him are his brothers, F.T. and Cathy Peart, J.R. and Trudy Peart and D.W. and Mary Peart. Serving as pallbearers will be Nedd Reese, F. T. Peart, J.R. Peart, Michael Peart and Rod Rodriguez. Serving as honorary pallbearer will be Neal Dickman.
Preston Michael “Mike” Wood, 58, of Bridge City, passed away on July 29, 2007. Mike was born July 15, 1949, in Orange, Texas to P.M. “Red” & Ione (Jackson) Wood. He was a 1967 graduate of BCHS. He was preceded in death by his parents and his wife Michele. He is survived by his brother in law & sister, C. W. “Bubba” & Kathy Lormand, his aunt Janelle Hammond of New Jersey and his aunt Sandy Parkhurst of Orange.
Sally Marie Howard Waddell was born to Harvey Delbert Sr. and Sallie Pearl Howard in Port Arthur, April 29, 1937. Her family moved to the Bridge City area in 1938 where, except for two years elsewhere, she spent her entire life. She married Marvin Waddell on September 4, 1959. After several years of marriage, they had twin sons in 1967. She spent her life ministering to her family, church and young people in the Bridge City schools. Having a B.A. in business subjects and a M.A. in counseling, she used both in her 30 year career at Bridge City ISD. She was a Sunday School teacher at First Baptist Church in Bridge City from the age of 13 until Alzheimer's rendered her incapable. Sally passed away on July 11, 2007, in Orange. She is survived by her husband, Marvin; sons and daughters-in-law, Bryan and Rebekah Waddell, Bill and Valarie Waddell; seven grandchildren, Joshua, Abigail, Hannah, Mikayla, Corban, Bryanna and Annalisa Waddell. Also surviving are her sisters, Bess Hollomon, Terry McClain; and brother, H.D. Howard, Jr. Sally was preceded in death by her parents and two brothers, Jimmy Don and Joe Howard. Friends are invited to a visitation from 6-9 p.m. Friday, July 13, at Claybar Funeral Home in Bridge City. The funeral service will be 10:00 a.m. Saturday, July 14, at First Baptist Church in Bridge City. Officiating will be Reverend Bob Boone, pastor, and her sons, Bill and Bryan. The graveside service will be 1:30 p.m. Saturday at Holland Cemetery near Kountze. Serving as pallbearers will be Kent Howard, Todd Howard, Don Howard, Scott Hollomon, Joshua Waddell and Louis Miller. (from KOGT.com)
Via Email - (4-19-07) Services for Travis Ray Richey, 37, of Tennessee Colony, will be at 10 a.m. Saturday (April 21st) at Herrington/Land of Memory Funeral Home Chapel. Burial will follow at Tennessee Colony Cemetery under the direction of Herrington/Land of Memory Funeral Home.
Mr. Richey died Wednesday, April 18, at East Texas Medical Center in Tyler. Visitation will be from 6 to 8 pm Friday, April 20th, at Herrington/Land of Memory Funeral Home. Memorials may be made to Hospice of East Texas or to Tennessee Colony Cemetery Fund.
Lisa Cormier. (from The Record 02-28-07).
Although many of her friends and fellow students had already received the devastating news and were gathered at her family’s Bridge City home Monday evening, the remainder of students and faculty members at Bridge City High School were told Tuesday morning that 15-year-old freshman Lisa Cormier died suddenly Sunday from complications of the flu. Bridge City High School did not hold classes Monday, but faculty members likely spent Tuesday consoling grieving students. Lisa was popular, on the basketball team, a straight “A” student, an avid photographer and was devoted to her youth church group in Bridge City. “They will need a lot of counselors at the school because she was such a great person and a good friend,” said 15-year-old fellow student and close friend Cody Cupit. “If you were ever around her, even once, you’d remember. She gave everything her all and she encouraged other people to do well and to go to God. Her boyfriend, just like her mom and all the friends here (at her house) are just coping right now.” By Monday evening, there were several signs along the streets of Bridge City, saying “We Love You Lisa,” and according to her mother, Julie Vickery, Lisa’s myspace.com web-page continues to be bogged down with friends offering their condolences and saying goodbye to the girl and friend so many admired. Officials with Church on the Rock Bridge City are preparing for the overflow of mourners expected at her visitation Thursday evening and at her funeral Friday morning. “She turned my eyes to God and she did it to lots of students at school,” said close friend Hannah Smith, 16. “But Lisa wouldn’t want us to be sad right now. Even with something like this, she would want us to smile.” Her mother, with whom she had a very tight bond, says she feels extremely lucky to have had Lisa as her child, even if only for such a short time. “I’m really honored to have been her mother. She was a child anyone would want to have,” she said. “She was so good and we were so close and I am sure she is sitting in God’s lap right now, telling him how to run things up there. My only regret is going to work those few days she was home sick. But what 15-year-old dies from the flu? I had no idea this would happen. But she is with God now and I will continue her legacy of trying to help kids who were going down the wrong path. I don’t know how I’m going to do it yet, but Lisa will show me how.” Lisa’s mother said her daughter had a feeling something was going to happen. “She knew something was going to happen. She told her coach earlier this year that she didn’t think she was going to live much longer on this earth. She was very religious and she must have just felt something,” said Lisa’s mother, Julie Vickery of Bridge City. “She got the flu on Monday (Feb. 19) and spent three days sick at home, but by Wednesday, I knew something wasn’t right and she went to the emergency room and they evaluated her and did some tests and pretty much immediately flew her to Texas Children’s Hospital in Houston with a full team of doctors onboard. They believe she had some condition she was just forming because her white blood count was too low and her little body just couldn’t fight the flu. They are doing a full autopsy though to know for sure.” But Vickery said her daughter was a “fighter” and even though her heart stopped at least once at Texas Children’s Hospital, she refused to give in until all of her friends and family had time to gather by her side to say their goodbyes. “That’s just how she was. She refused to let go until we all had a chance to get there. Her family was there and her friends and her boyfriend and pastor and once she knew we all had the chance to say goodbye, she wasn’t going to let herself suffer anymore and God wasn’t going to let her suffer either. She let go when I left the hospital to get some rest so that I could go back and have the strength to take care of her.” Lisa had been a student in the Bridge City School District since first grade and was preparing for track and playing basketball at the time of her death. Her mother said she was also working to get into accelerated classes. She was a long-time member of the Church on the Rock Bridge City, where she led youth services and programs. “She had three families, her church, her friends and her regular family and everyone loved her,” Julie said. “Her smile was so incredible. I am at peace knowing she is with God and I am so touched by all the people helping me through this.” Visitation services will take place from 6-9 p.m. at the Church on the Rock Bridge City, located on Texas Avenue (Highway 87). Funeral services will be at 10 a.m. on Friday at the church. To visit Lisa’s myspace.com page go to www.myspace.com/cartwheelqueen13.
Roger Wayne Russell, 76, of Bridge City died Tuesday, January 23, 2007 at Christus St. Mary Hospital in Port Arthur. Funeral Services will be at 2:00 p.m., Sunday, January 28, 2007 at First Baptist Church of Port Arthur with Reverend Don Falke officiating. Burial will follow at Hillcrest Memorial Gardens in Orange. Visitation will be from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m., Saturday at the church. Roger was born in Goose Creek, Texas on January 31, 1930. He graduated from Robert E. Lee High School in Baytown in 1948, began his college education and then joined the United States Air Force in 1950. He was sent to Japan in 1952 for 27 months. When he returned to the states in 1954, he married Peggy Rae Bittick. They were stationed in Topeka, Kansas, until Roger was discharged from the Air Force. He finished his education at Sam Houston State College in Huntsville, Texas, and they moved to Port Arthur in 1957 where Roger began his teaching career at Thomas Jefferson High School. He worked for the Port Arthur Independent School District until 1973. The family moved to Bridge City, Texas at that time and he began working for the Bridge City ISD. He taught art in the classroom, was director of student activities, a counselor, and assistant principal during his working years. Upon retirement, he worked endless hours at his beloved First Baptist Church doing more things than this paper could hold. Even upon learning of his illness in August 2005, he continued working, visiting, writing cards and doing all he could for other people. He is preceded in death by his parents, Holt and Lois Russell and is survived by his wife, Peggy Russell of Bridge City; sons and daughters-in-law, Steve and Kathy Russell of Bridge City and Randy and Helen Russell of College Station; daughters and sons-in-law, Jana and Bob Cash of Beaumont and Karen and Bryan Bozman of Bridge City. He is also survived by his brother, Rollin Russell of Canon City, CO and eight grandchildren, Bonnie Russell, Lindy Stuckey, Shelly Russell, Ryan Russell, Robyn Cash, Matt Cash, Kristi Bozman and Russell Bozman. Serving as pallbearers will be Bill Carter, Mark Tolar, Thomas Robinson, Don Reeves, Mike Nicholas, Charles McBee, Albert Follett and Bart Bragg. Honorary pallbearers will be the Deacon Body of the First Baptist Church in Port Arthur. Should friend’s desire, memorial contributions may be sent to First Baptist Church of Port Arthur, 5000 Gulfway Dr., Port Arthur, TX 77642. (From KOGT website)
Adrienne “A.J.” Nicole Jones, 23, of Bridge City died Saturday, January 13, 2007 at her home. Funeral Services will be at 10:00 a.m., Wednesday, January 17, 2007 at Claybar Funeral Home in Bridge City. Officiating will be Father Jim McClintock of St. Henry’s Catholic Church in Bridge City. A graveside service will follow at 3:00 p.m., Wednesday at Fairmont Cemetery in Hemphill. Visitation will begin at 5:00 p.m. with a rosary being recited at 6:00 p.m. on Tuesday at the funeral home. Adrienne was born December 29, 1983 in Galveston to William Royce and Barbara (Chapman) Jones. She was a graduate from Bridge City High School, a member of St. Henry’s Catholic Church and a home health caregiver. She was preceded in death by her grandparents, Bill and Juanita Jones and grandmother, Myrtle Chapman, my “Megop”. Those left to cherish her memory are her fiancee, Wesley Wilson; her parents, William Royce and Barbara Jones and her daughter, Jaycie Michelle Wilson all of Bridge City. She is also survived by her sisters, Michelle Troxel of Mohegan Lake, NY and Emily Jones of Bridge City and her brothers, Matthew Jones and David Jones both of Austin. (from KOGT website)
Brad Lapeyrolerie, Jr. died on July 8, 2005. It is hard to believe 1 year has already passed since his death. Brad graduated from Bridge City in 1987. He went on to graduate from Lamar in 1992 and then from the Police Academy. He was then hired as an officer for the Port Arthur Police Department and became a narcotics investigator working undercover until the time of his death. Brad had to fight to get his job at the police department. At first he was told that they didn't know how long he'd live since he had cystic fibrosis and didn't think he could do the job. But he changed their minds and the job he loved so much became his life and he was very good at it. Through the years he received a number of service merits and was selected as the Police Officer of the Year in 2003 by the 100 Club of Southeast Texas. One of his lieutenants said that "He was one of the classiest cops he had ever seen in the 35 years of his law enforcement." He said that "He had never seen anyone as devoted to the job or as tough as he was." He was known as Lap or Lap Dog to most of the officers. One of his good friends and fellow officers said "Lap had such a huge heart, such determination crammed into a 115 pound body. Lap, you will never be forgotten." Jonathon Brock Navarro, 25, of Bridge City, passed away on October 12, 2006. A Mass of Christian Burial will be on Saturday, 10 a.m., October 14, 2006, at St. Henry Catholic Church in Bridge City. Officiating will be Reverend Jim McClintock. Burial will follow at Hillcrest Memorial Gardens. Visitation will be from 4-9 p.m., Friday at Claybar Funeral Home in Bridge City, with a Vigil service at 6:30 p.m. Jonathon was born May 17, 1981, in Beaumont, TX to Sandra (Callahan) and George Navarro. He served in the US Air Force for 2 tours of duty in Afghanistan after September 11, 2001. After receiving an honorable discharge, he went back to Afghanistan as a firefighter for KBR for 2 years. Upon returning to Bridge City, he continued to serve as a Volunteer Firefighter for his community. He is preceded in death by his maternal grandmother, Linda Callahan. Jonathon is survived by his parents, George and Sandra Navarro of Bridge City, paternal grandparents, Pete and Irene Navarro of Bridge City and maternal grandfather, John Callahan of Nederland. Also surviving him are his brother, Justin and his wife Jana Navarro, of Nederland; sisters, Emily Navarro and Lari Navarro, both of Bridge City.
Rodney Stockton (Class of 1969) Roderick Alan Stockton, 55, passed away on September 15, 2006 in Camas, WA. Funeral services will be at 4:00 p.m. Thursday, September 28, 2006 at Claybar Funeral Home Chapel in Bridge City. Burial will follow at Hillcrest Memorial Gardens. Visitation will be from 6-7 p.m. on Thurs. at the funeral home in Bridge City. Mr. Stockton was born January 18, 1951 in Lafayette, LA to Raymond and Olivet Stockton. He was a Robotic Engineer and was the owner of SLR Automation. He was a 1969 graduate from Bridge City High and Stephen F. Austin in Nacogdoches. He was also an A&M graduate with a Doctorate in Chemistry and a Doctorate in Physiology. Mr. Stockton was preceded in death by his father, Raymond Stockton and is survived by his mother, Olivet Stockton of Bridge City; brother and sister-in-law, Kent and Charley Stockton of Warren. He is also survived by his nieces, Amanda Gail Neff and husband Chris of Silsbee and Rissa Rae Stockton of Warren.
Colin Blair Everett, 25, of Bath, Maine died September 14, 2006, at Maine Medical Center in Portland, Maine. Funeral services will be at 10:00 a.m. Wednesday, September 20, 2006, at Claybar Funeral Home Chapel in Bridge City. Officiating will be Mr. Tony Goins and Mr. David McCain, ministers with The Church of Christ. Burial with full military honors will follow at Hillcrest Memorial Gardens. Visitation will begin at 4:00 p.m. Tuesday at the funeral home. Construction Electrician Second Class Colin B. Everett was born on February 10, 1981 in Port Arthur, Texas and graduated from Bridge City High School. Enlisting in the U.S. Navy on June 3, 1999 Petty Officer Everett began his active duty career at Recruit Training Command, Great Lakes, Illinois. He attended Construction Electrician “A” School at NCTC DET Sheppard, AFB, Wichita Falls, TX, graduating January 14, 2000. On January 31, 2000, CE2 Everett began his first tour of duty at Naval Support Activity Naples, Italy. Upon completion of his tour in Italy CE2 Everett transferred to Naval Mobile Construction Battalion Seven, Gulfport, Mississippi on 21 March 2003. While there he was promoted to Petty Officer Third Class and Petty Officer Second Class. While serving in NMCB Seven he was deployed in support of “Operation Iraqi Freedom” to Camp Castle, Kuwait where he provided Camp Maintenance Services to ensure that the flow of supplies to forward deployed troops was uninterrupted. He arrived at Naval Air Station Brunswick, Maine on June 20, 2005 and reported to the Public Works Department where he made a lasting impression. His personal initiative and technical knowledge helped support the completion of a state of the art Security Building and Hazardous Materials Administration building ensuring that fire alarm systems and auxiliary power generators were installed and operational. He was a key member in the setup and tear down of security fencing for parking and show line. His enthusiasm for physical fitness helped improve Public Works’ overall physical readiness standards as our command fitness leader. He grew up in Texas and was an avid Longhorns fan. He enjoyed fishing and rock climbing. He enjoyed giving back to the community and volunteered to install new playground equipment at the base picnic grounds helping save MWR thousands of dollars and helped to install a handicapped ramp for a recent amputee living in the McKeen Street Housing. During his career, he was awarded the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal, Good Conduct Medal (2 awards), Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Sea Service Deployment Ribbon, Overseas Service Ribbon, Presidential Unit Citation, Flag Letter of Commendation and Letter of Commendation and on Thursday he received posthumously the Navy Achievement Medal. He was preceded in death by his grandfathers, L.J. Vice and Robert J. Everett. He is survived by his parents, Richard and Debbie Everett of Bridge City; fiancé, Camille Gagnon of Bath Maine; grandmothers, Mary Lee Vice of Lufkin and Thelma Everett of Bridge City; daughter, Stephanie Michelle Everett and her mother Beata Everett of Poland; brother, Dustin Michael Everett and wife Rheanna of Bridge City; and numerous aunts, uncles and cousins. Honorary pallbearers will be Dustin Everett, Scott Everett, Brock Everett, Travis Everett, Stuart Everett, Weston Dillon, Darrell Trahan, Mike Hoch, Dave Martino, Dan Fletcher and Kendall James.
A memorial service for Roy Wayne Ryan, 67, of Orange, Texas will be Saturday, September 9, 2006 at 4 pm at the First Baptist Church Orangefield. Officiating the service will be the Rev. Dale Vance and the Rev. Forrest Wood. Roy died Wednesday, September 6, 2006 in Orange. A native of Choate Community near Kenedy, TX, he lived in the Orange/Bridge City area since 1962. He attended Baylor University, received his B.S. degree from The University of Texas in Austin, and his Masters of Education degree from Stephen F. Austin State University. He was a retired educator who began his teaching career at Orangefield High School in 1962, and he was an administrator at Bridge City Junior High School, Pettus High School, Vidor High School, and Deweyville High School. He was a member of the First Baptist Church Orangefield, and did volunteer work at Christus St. Elizabeth Hospital and the Medical Center of Southeast Texas. He is survived by his wife Anita Michell Ryan, son Ricky Ryan and his wife Demetria, grandson Brandon Ryan, and granddaughter Zoe Ryan. Cremation will be under the direction of Dorman Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the charity of one’s choice.
Robin Lea Middlebrooks, 24, lifelong resident of Bridge City died Sunday, August 13, 2006. Funeral Services will be at 10:00 a.m. Thursday, August 17, 2006 at the Triumph Church in Nederland. Pastor Kirk Ellender will be officiating. Burial will follow at Hillcrest Memorial Gardens in Orange. Visitation will begin at 4:00 p.m. on Wednesday at Claybar Funeral Home in Bridge City. Ms. Middlebrooks was born April 21, 1982 in Beaumont to James Stanley and Mary (Magehee) Middlebrooks. Robin was a recent summa cum laud graduate of the University of Bridgeport in Connecticut where she received her bachelor’s of science in Interior Design. She worked for Cuba Libre restaurant in Austin. Robin is survived by her parents, Mary and James Stanley; grandparents, Irene Middlebrooks and Winnie Ray Magehee. She is also survived by her brother and sister-in-law, Dax and Beth Middlebrooks and her nieces and nephews, Emma, Delaney, Jax and Oliver Middlebrooks. Serving as pallbearers will be Bo Wortham, Shannon Buckley, Chance Sweat, Josh Britt, Brian Rodgers and Rae Metz. Honorary pallbearers will be Ryan Atkinson and Bryan Davis.
Scott Elliott Guidry, 28, of Bridge City died Saturday, July 29, 2006. Funeral Services will be at 2:00 p.m. Wednesday, August 2, 2006 at Claybar Funeral Home Chapel in Bridge City. Officiating will be Reverend Napoleon Williams of the Blood Covenant Church in Beaumont. Burial will follow at Greenlawn Cemetery in Port Arthur. Visitation will begin at 4:00 p.m. on Tuesday at the funeral home in Bridge City. Mr. Guidry was born November 10, 1977 in Houston to Tony and Arlette (Sonnier) Guidry. He had served four years in the Marines and was a apprentice electrician for Davis Electric. He was a member of the Blood Covenant Church in Beaumont. Mr. Guidry is survived by his parents; son, Keaton Guidry of Orange and brother, Sean Guidry of Bridge City. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Capital One Bank for Scott and Keaton Guidry. (From KOGT website)
Randy Tankersley, 49, of Orangefield died Saturday, April 29, 2006 at his home. Funeral Services will be Wednesday, May 3, 2006 at 2:00 p.m. at Claybar Funeral Home Chapel in Bridge City. Officiating will be Reverend Harry Garison of First Christian Church in Orangefield. Interment will follow at Granger Cemetery in Duncan Woods. Mr. Tankersley was born September 3, 1956 in Orange to George Henry and Mary Rose (Hebert) Tankersley. Preceded in death by his father, George Henry Tankersley and step-father, Willard Granger, he is survived by his mother, Mary Granger; son, Justin Tankersley both of Orangefield; brothers, Michael Tankersley of Orangefield, Robert Tankersley of Bridge City, Raymond Granger of Duncan Woods, Larry Granger, Todd Granger, Troy Granger, Pete Granger all of Orangefield. He is also survived by many nieces and nephew (From KOGT website)
Edwin Andrew Guyote, 43, of Bridge City, Texas, died Monday, March 20, 2006, at his home. A Mass of Christian Burial will be 1:00 p.m. Wednesday, March 22, 2006, at St. Henry Catholic Church in Bridge City. Officiating will be Reverend James McClintock of St. Henry Catholic Church and Reverend Francis X. Conroy of St. Pius X Catholic Church in Beaumont. Burial will follow at Hillcrest Memorial Gardens in Orange. A visitation will begin at 5:00 p.m. Tuesday, with a Vigil at 7:00 p.m. at Claybar Funeral Home Chapel in Bridge City. Officiating will be Deacon Steve Obernuefemann. Edwin was born on September 7, 1963. He was the son of Stuart Joseph and Jeanette Marie (Haimoto) Guyote. He was a satellite installer and a member of St. Henry Catholic Church in Bridge City. Those left to cherish his memory are his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Stuart Joseph Guyote of Bridge City; sisters, Denise Broussard of Fannett, Theresa Luciano of Rochester, New York, June Rudd of Shawnee, Kansas and brothers, Erich Guyote and Bruce Guyote both of Bridge City. Serving as pallbearers are Bruce Guyote, Paul Broussard, Kevin Broussard, Michael Rudd, Richard Luciano and his father, Stuart Joseph Guyote. The family would like to say a special thank you to the nurses at Christus St. Mary Hospital, Dr. and Mrs. Kong, Dr. Enriques and Dr. Zappia. Memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society, St. Henry Catholic Church in Bridge City or St. Pius X Catholic Church in Beaumont. (From KOGT website)
Darin Lee Trahan, 23, of Bridge City passed away Sunday, March 5, 2006 at his home. Friends are cordially invited to attend a funeral service at 2:00 p.m. Wednesday, March 8, 2006 at Claybar Funeral Home in Bridge City. His family will receive friends beginning at 5:00 p.m. Tuesday with a rosary being recited at 7:00 p.m. at the funeral home. Entombment will follow at Oak Bluff Memorial Park in Port Neches. Darin was born January 19, 1983 in Port Arthur to Darrell and Claudia (Plott) Trahan. He was a crew leader for Rail Serve at DuPont Sabine River Works in Orange and recently began working at Prime Electrical as an electrical assistant. Darin was a 2001 graduate of Bridge City High School and earned his Associates Degree in Business from Lamar State College in Orange. He was a member of St. Henry Catholic Church. Darin participated in many sports in Bridge City including soccer, baseball, basketball and especially football. He enjoyed playing his Fender guitar and listening to all kinds of music. He is preceded in death by his grandparents, B.R. and Arlene Plott; grandfather, Dallas J. Trahan and uncle C.H. Plott. Darin is survived by his parents, Darrell and Claudia Trahan of Bridge City; brother, Darrell Trahan Jr. and fiancé Shanna both of Bridge City; grandmother, Audrey Trahan of Bridge City; uncles and aunts, Wofford Plott of Friendswood, Bobbie and Larry Voight of Port Neches, Darlene Johnson of Lott, TX, Linda Plott of Marlin, Oralee and Ricky Hegefeld of Marlin, Cheryl and William Berry of Groves. He is also survived by his cousins, Troy and Lisa Plott, Patisu Plott, Dean and Donna Voight, Nikki and Steve Pieckenbroch, Kristi and Chris Louviere, Danny Bernauer, Michele Funderburk, Tammy Hegefeld, Tina Hegefeld, Ricky Hegefeld, Jr. and Eric and Mary Ellis; plus numerous great cousins; and many close friends and loved ones. Serving as pallbearers will be Darrell Trahan, Jr., Ricky Hegefeld, Jr., Eric Ellis, Perry Ashworth, Dustin McDaniels and Dustin Everett. Darin was a kind and friendly person who will be greatly loved and missed by all who knew him. (From KOGT website)
Gary Allen Engles of Orange passed away February 21, 2006. He was born January 2, 1952, to Charles Edgar Engles Jr. and Clovis Davis Engles. He graduated Bridge City High School in 1970. He was a welder and pipefitter by trade, and an avid fisherman and hunter. He is survived by his mother, Clovis Engles Wilfer; sister, Donna Bradley and husband Gary; nieces, Malena and Amanda; and nephew, Charles. A memorial service will be held at 2:00 p.m. Saturday, February 25, 2006, at Cove Baptist Church. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Cove Baptist Church
Patricia Ann Vail - Goldsmith, 58, of Bridge City, died Monday, February 6, 2006, at her home. Funeral services will be 2:00 p.m. Friday, February 10, 2006, at Claybar Funeral Home in Bridge City. Officiating will be Pastor Daniel Rose, associate pastor of Community Church. Interment will follow at Hillcrest Memorial Gardens in Orange. Visitation will begin at 6:00 p.m. Thursday, February 9, 2006 at the funeral home. Mrs. Goldsmith was born March 14, 1947 to Woody and Doris (Hogue) Vail in Seattle, WA. She was a lifelong resident of Bridge City who worked as an LVN for several area hospitals. She was a very caring and giving person who loved to buy for other people, enjoyed her yard work and her rose bushes. She also loved dogs, especially Pekingese. She is survived by her parents; her loving husband, Cecil Goldsmith of Bridge City; her sons and daughters-in-law, John Paul and Meshel Frasier of Shreveport, LA and Bobby D. and Tracy Frasier of Carrollton, TX; daughter and son-in-law, Becky and Michael Contos of Reno, NV; her grandchildren, Ashleigh Nicole Davis, Savannah Frasier and Alex Contos; brothers and sisters-in-law, David and Danielle Vail of Oakland, CA, Danny and Malinda Vail of Bridge City and Robert and Betty Vail of Bridge City; sister, Barbara Vail of Crestone, Co and numerous nieces and nephews. (From KOGT website)
Henry Grady LaPointe, 53 of Bridge City, Texas, died Thursday, December 22, 2005, at St. Mary Hospital in Port Arthur. Funeral services will be 2:00 p.m. Friday, December 23, 2005, at Claybar Funeral Home in Bridge City. Officiating will be Reverend Jim McClintock from St. Henry Catholic Church in Bridge City. Burial will follow at Hillcrest Memorial Gardens in Orange. Grady was born on December 5, 1952, in Port Arthur, Texas. He is the son of Stanford and Nellie Melodie (Clark) LaPointe. He worked as a crane operator for Engineer’s Local 450. Mr. LaPointe was preceded in death by his parents and sister, Betty Guillot. Those left to cherish his memory are Dean LaPointe; step-daughter, Connie Midkiff; step-grand-daughter, Amanda Midkiff; brother, Delbert Del LaPointe; sisters, Jo Ann Branham, Martha Nantz; nephew, Corey LaPointe and nieces, Cayla Branham and Charity Branham. Serving as pallbearers are Johnny Slaughter, Corey LaPointe, Steve Taylor, Winfrey LeLeux, Carlo Balord and Gary LaPointe (From KOGT website)
Beverly Kay “Ms. Bev.” Young, 52, of Orange, Texas, died Wednesday, December 14, 2005, at her home. Funeral services will be 1:00 p.m. Sunday, December 18, 2005, at Claybar Funeral Home Chapel in Orange. Officiating will be Reverend David W. Smith. Burial will follow at Orange Forest Lawn Cemetery in West Orange. Visitation will begin at 2:00 p.m. Saturday, at the funeral home in Orange. Beverly was born on April 6, 1953, in Beaumont, Texas. She was the daughter of Paul and Bernice (Thornton) Gandy. She was a homemaker, a loving wife, mother and maw maw. She was preceded in death by her parents and two sisters, Jennifer Wych and Paulette Gandy. Those left to cherish her memory are her husband, Bobby Young, Sr. of Orange; sons, Bobby Young, Jr., Keith Young, Anthony Young; daughter, Brittany Young all of Orange; eight grandchildren; sisters, Pam Torres of Beaumont, Wanda Brown of Lumberton, Sharon Torres of Beaumont and many nieces and nephews. Serving as pallbearers are Tim Taylor, Danial Abrego, Paul Torres, Martin Torres, Gary Flowers and Richard Wych. (From KOGT website)
On December 3, 2005, Troy Lynn Robinson, age 36, was quickly transferred to his heavenly home where he now lives with his Savior, Jesus Christ. Before this time, Troy was born in Orange, Texas on February 14, 1969. In his earthly life, he graduated form Bridge City High School, attended Lamar, and served in the Air National Guard and the Air Force for a total of six years, with Honorable Discharge. Troy enjoyed many activities in his brief life including motor-cycling, golfing, skydiving, softball, stamp collecting and traveling. At one time, he served at Winfree Baptist Church as their youth leader. Most of the time you couldn’t tell Troy from the kids. However, he had a special gift that he gave away everyday and that was his endless love he had for every person he met. His most important and engaging activity was his family. His wife Krissy was the light of his life. They had a special relationship that was easy for everyone to notice. Troy was just different. Father to five children, each one of them thought they were his favorite—and they were. If “Greatest Daddy” awards were presented every year, Troy would win every time. Hugs abounded from him continually. He was still, one of the kids. His parents were a source of joy to him and most days, his mom would get a call from him, lighting up her life. Troy was preceded in death by his grandfathers, R.W. Overman, Junior Robinson, Jesse Lobb and grandmother, Lola Phillips. He is survived by his loving and devoted wife, Krissy and their children: Tyler Wayne Hodgkinson 11, Haley Paige Hodgkinson 9, Seth Lynn Robinson 8, Eden Lynn Robinson 5, and Keely Reese Robinson 4 months. Also surviving are his parents: Glee and Tommy Lobb of Bridge City, Tommy & Debbie Robinson of Gillette, Wyoming. Three brothers and a sister surviving are: Travis & Rachal Lobb, Michael & Ashley Robinson of Bridge City, Mandy & Marcus Cook of Houston, and Thomas Robinson of Wyoming. Surviving grandparents are Troy Phillips of Silsbee and Mary Overman of Hartburg. Also surviving is a large family of aunts, uncles, nieces, and nephews. Thankful to have shared a part of Troy’s life are his father & mother-in-law Dave Sr. & Charolette Chesson, brother & sister-in-law Dave Jr. & Telisa Chesson, other grand-parents: Rena Lobb, Mitchell & Sunny Chesson and Gloria Ardoin.The family will welcome you at Claybar Funeral Home in Orange on Monday, December 5, 2005 at 4:00 p.m for visitation. Funeral Services will be at 2:00 p.m. Tuesday morning at the funeral home. Interment will be held at Hillcrest Memorial Gardens, Inc. in Orange. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to help family with funeral expenses. Contributions may be made to Claybar Funeral Home, 504 N. 5th St., Orange, Texas 77630. (From KOGT website)
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Melvin R. Radke, Jr., 68, of Orange, Texas, died Wednesday, November 30, 2005, at his home. Funeral services will be 1:00 p.m. Saturday, December 3, 2005, at Claybar Funeral Home in Orange. Officiating will be Reverend Marion Martin. Burial will follow at Memory Gardens Cemetery in Nederland. Visitation will be from 5-9 p.m. Friday at the funeral home in Orange. Mr. Radke was born on June 25, 1937, at Hotel Dieu in Beaumont, Texas. He was the son of Melvin R. Radke, Sr. and Judine (Burnett) Radke. He was a master musician, trombone player and an award winning Band Director for over 34 years. He retired from Bridge City I.S.D. and was a member of several organizations including: Orange Lion’s Club, Beaumont Symphony Orchestra, Kappa Kappa Psi Music Fraternity and Texas Music Educators Association. Additionally, Melvin was a member of Mac Arthur Heights Baptist Church in Orange, served as Awards Chairman for the Boy Scouts of America, Pack 8 and studied graduate courses at University of Houston and Stephen F. Austin University. He also enjoyed reading, walking, fishing and chess, but loved his family and his church above all. He was preceded in death by his parents, Melvin and Judine Radke. Those left to cherish his memory are his wife of 45 years, Deanna Marie (Vincent) Radke; daughters and sons-in-law, Stephanie and Richard Lanoue of Orange, Sandra and Andrew Kedjierski of Washington, DC; son and daughter-in-law, Melvin Raymond “Ray” III and Jessica Radke; three grand-children, Cameron Dwayne, Kyleen Raye, Katie Marie Radke all of Silsbee; sister, Donna Radke and aunt, Minnie Burnett both of Livingston, TX. Serving as pallbearers will be Charles T. Vincent, W.C. Bobbitt, Tom Hare, Derrell Smith, Lee J. Thibodeaux, Robert Brower and Jerry Lege.
Mr. Radke will be missed by all who knew him.
(From KOGT website)
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(4-23-05)
Thanks to the initial work of Linc, BC graduates can keep in touch with former classmates. He is sorely missed for his efforts on maintaining a super web site. He will never be forgotten !!! Thanks now to Frank for continuing Linc's dream. Frank, we appreciate you, also !!! Randie Mulholland Jones (Class of '67)
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(5-1-05)
I'm grateful for the work Linc did to help the Class of 1980 have a wonderful 20-Year Reunion in 2000. Linc was instrumental in helping us locate and connect with many of our classmates. I also enjoyed the friendship that developed by our frequent communication while he was developing his web site and helping me develop our class online group. I pray blessings on his family in their time of loss.
Becky Seales McInnis
(Class of '80)
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(6-23-05)
I graduated in 1969 and had lost touch with so many by moving back to Oklahoma. His web site has put me in touch with so many old friend some who are here and some who have left us and I will always be grateful for all the work he did - and even though we never met I could drop him a line and he would always answer. Frank I don't know who you are either (at least I don't think) but alot has been said about you for taking it over and trust me you and Linc will touch many lives and connect many old friends God bless you and I know he did Linc and your work will not be forgotten at least by this old hippie. Peace and long life friend
Michael Hein
(Class of 69)