Obituaries

Tommy Morgan, 85, passed from this life on June 20, 2026, at his home in New Braunfels, Texas. He was born on September 17, 1940, in Powell, Oklahoma, to S.G. and Dolly Avery Morgan. On February 4, 1967, he married Wanda Gayle Ice, and the two shared a life together until her passing. Family was everything to Tommy. He was a steady, dependable presence for the people he loved. His love for his family was not loud, but it was constant and unwavering. Tommy carried a strong work ethic into everything he did, eventually building a career in accounting that defined much of his life. He served clients across Texas, many of whom became lifelong friends through the trust and care he poured into his work. Tommy was a man who let his actions speak for him, and they always spoke well. Tommy was a man of deep faith, and those who loved him take comfort in knowing he is now home with the Lord, reunited with the loved ones who went before him. He was loved by many and will be deeply missed by all who knew him. A visitation will be held on Thursday, June 25, 2026, from 6:00 to 7:30 p.m. at Jerry Woods Funeral Home Chapel. A funeral service will follow on Friday, June 26, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at First Baptist Church in Nocona, officiated by Pastor Dave Woodbury. Interment will follow at Center Point Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Center Point Cemetery Association, P.O. Box 401, Saint Jo, TX 76265.

Mark Cullen Smith lost his battle with cancer Tuesday, June 16th in Nocona. He was born on October 27, 1949 in Chicago, where his father was attending pilot training for the airline company that would eventually become Delta Airlines. As soon as possible, the family came back to Hurst, Texas, where he grew up.  He graduated high school at L.D. Bell in Euless. After graduation, he attended Tarrant County Community College and graduated with an Associate’s degree in Aeronautical Technology. He received his AP license prior to graduation, and worked for Denton Piper Sales and Service, Dallas Airmotive, and then Midcoast Aviation in Saint Louis, working on both jet and prop-driven aircraft. In 1973 he was hired by Cessna Aircraft Company in Wichita, Kansas as a field service engineer, providing engineering coordination and support involving maintenance and service issues for over 200 Cessna Citation corporate jets throughout Texas, Oklahoma, Idaho, Utah, New Mexico, Louisiana and Mexico. Mark retired from Cessna in 2009, and he and his wife then moved full-time to their very small cattle ranch in Montague County. Mark enjoyed collecting classic cars and motorcycles, scuba diving in the Caribbean, snow skiing in Utah, New Mexico, Idaho and Colorado, sailing on Lake Grapevine, motorcycle riding and racing, hiking, camping and fly fishing in Texas, New Mexico, Montana, Colorado and Idaho, long range rifle and pistol shooting, and flying radio-controlled airplanes.  He is survived by his wife Gale Cochran-Smith of Montague, his son Phillip Smith, of Fort Worth, and two grandchildren. Preceding him in death were his mother, LaVoe Taylor Smith, his father, Jack Phillip Smith, and his daughter, Nicole Smith Derrick. Memorials can be made to the Nocona General Hospital Foundation or the Nocona Carpenter Shop/Meals on Wheels program. A small Celebration of Life service will take place at a later date to celebrate Mark’s full and fun-filled active life.

Helen Louise Murphey, 93, of Nocona, Texas, passed away on June 6, 2026. Helen was born on January 9, 1933, in Winters, Texas, to Curtis and Ophelia Sledge. She lived a long and full life centered on family, hard work, and caring for those around her. On October 9, 1965, she married Billie Raye Murphey. They shared more than five decades together before his passing in February 2017. Helen was preceded in death by her parents, Curtis and Ophelia Sledge; all six of her siblings; her first husband, Elmer Womack, in 1962; her husband, Billie Raye Murphey; her daughter, Kelley Murphey, and her son, Raymond Murphey. She is survived by her children, Greg Womack and partner Pam Beauford of West Columbia, Texas; Kathy Hardin and husband Randy of Gainesville, Texas; Karen Hutchings and husband Donnie of Mullin, Texas; Vicki Jones and husband Gary of Valley View, Texas; Alan Murphey and wife Linda of Sanger, Texas; and Christie McGuffin and husband Jim of Gene Autry, Oklahoma. She also leaves behind numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, extended family members, and dear friends who will forever cherish her memory. Helen was a homemaker whose greatest joy was caring for her family. She enjoyed painting, gardening, tending to her chickens, playing Bingo, and was never afraid to pick up a power tool when there was work to be done. Known simply as “Mamaw” to her grandchildren, Helen was the matriarch of all matriarchs. She kept a watchful eye on her family and always had advice to share. She was strong-willed, independent, and could be ornery at times, but beneath that tough exterior was a woman who would do absolutely anything for the people she loved. She was also famous for her homemade rolls. Holidays simply were not complete without them, and family members often found themselves racing to claim the last one. Those meals gathered generations around the table and created memories that will be treasured for years to come. The family would also like to recognize Billy Price, who faithfully cared for Billie and Helen for more than sixteen years. Through countless doctor’s appointments, hospital stays, errands, and everyday needs, Billy was a constant source of support, companionship, and care. His devotion allowed them to remain independent and comfortable, and his kindness and dedication will always be remembered with gratitude. Helen’s greatest legacy is the family she built, guided, and loved so fiercely. Her strength, wisdom, and devotion will continue to live on through her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and all who were blessed to know her. Visitation will be held Tuesday, June 16, 2026, at Jerry Woods Funeral Home in Nocona, Texas, beginning at 10:00 a.m., followed by funeral services at 11:00 a.m. Graveside services will immediately follow in Nocona Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial donations be made to The Carpenter Shop of Nocona, Texas. She will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.

MINNIE ALLEN WALKER

20 She extends her hand to the poor,
Yes, she reaches out her hands to the needy.
25 Strength and honor are her clothing;
26 She opens her mouth with wisdom,
And on her tongue is the law of kindness.
27 She watches over the ways of her household,
And does not eat the bread of idleness.
28 Her children rise up and call her blessed;
Her husband also, and he praises her:
29 “Many daughters have done well,
But you excel them all.”
30 Charm is deceitful and beauty is passing,
But a woman who fears the Lord, she shall be praised.
31 Give her of the fruit of her hands,
And let her own works praise her in the gates.

Proverbs 31: 25-31

Minnie Allen Walker, an extraordinary and remarkable woman who lived the very example of the Proverbs woman, died June 12 at the age of 88 years, 4 months, and 23 days old. Born January 20, 1938, to Clarence and Eunice Allen in Ardmore, Oklahoma, on what had once been reservation land. Minnie was the only one of nine children to be born in a hospital. Although she weighed just over three pounds at birth, and her mother kept her in a shoe box. Minnie graduated from Prairie Valley High School, where she played basketball and volleyball. In 1959, she married her soulmate, Jerry Walker, and they built their extended family over the next 56 years. Always a career woman at heart, Minnie worked for Dude’s Duds briefly, and at the Ford dealership in Nocona for many years. She served as Nocona City Secretary and then as Nocona City Manager, retiring in 2005 after a total of 23 years. Minnie’s family lit up her life. Nothing pleased her more than having a grandchild to spoil for the weekend. She and Jerry traveled hundreds of miles to ardently cheer at sporting events, livestock shows, or anything in support of their kids or grandkids. An excellent cook, Minnie specialized in candy, desserts and mac and cheese. She delivered food to anyone in need. Just as importantly, Minnie gave her time. She visited the sick and lonely; she remembered the forgotten. She insisted on instilling this sense of service to community in her daughters and grandchildren, and they continue her legacy all over the country. The Walkers lost Jerry in 2018, and Minnie moved to Independence Hall in Bowie a few years ago. She is also preceded in death by her parents and siblings, Sam Allen, Alice Harper, Doie Allen and David Allen.  Minnie is survived by her three daughters, Karen Walker, Linda Wickersham, and Kathy Sayers; bonus daughters, Paula Ewing Dobbs, Tami Ewing Weaver, and Shari Ewing Hillard (children of her best friend, Ella Nell Ewing); grandchildren Zachery Hammer, Lucas Hammer and wife Tammy, Keaton Sayers, Michael Sayers, Preston Wickersham, Carson Wickersham, and great-grandchildren Holden Walker Hammer, Maci Alexander, Coy Alexander, Sierra Sayers, and Michael Sayers; sisters, Joan Tettleton and Barbara Ice as well as many nieces and nephews. There will be a visitation on Sunday, June 14, 2026 from 5 -6 P.M. at Jerry Woods Funeral Home Chapel. A Funeral service will be at Bethel Baptist Church on Monday, June 15, at 2 PM. Interment will follow in Ringgold Cemetery.

Minnie had a lifelong love of flowers, so flowers to remember her are welcome. She would also love donations to the Carpenter Shop, 400 Boston St., Nocona, TX 76255. 

Mark Dean Hancock passed away on June 10, 2026, in Nocona, Texas. He and his twin, Mike, were born on June 21, 1958, in Gainesville, Texas to Harvey F. Hancock and Jean (Hancock) Shears. Mark graduated from Nocona High School in 1976. He also attended North Texas University. He had several careers in his lifetime—the Boys’ State School in Gainesville, Texas, Tucker Rocky Distributing, and numerous oilfield companies. He was a talented guitar player. He wrote several songs and would sing on occasion. He also loved to fish and take care of his cats. Mark is preceded in death by his parents; a half-sister Kristy Hancock Gabriel; grandparents M.F. & Wanda Chilcoat, Lucille Hancock and Albert Hancock. He is surviv ed by two sons Ben Hancock and Sam Hancock. Brothers Harvey Hancock (Rhonda) and Mike Hancock (Lisa). Two sisters Kathy Tomlinson (Jimmy) and Patty Crabtree (Tim). Grandchildren Harlie & Jesse Hancock. Numerous nieces, nephews, great-nieces & nephews.  Mark requested to be cremated and his ashes scattered on the lakes he loved to fish on. A memorial service will be held on Sunday, June 28, 2026 from 2 – 4 P.M. at the Turquoise Owl, 18654 F.M. 103, Nocona, TX 76255.

Pauline Heathington, 87, passed from this life on June 4, 2026 surrounded by her family in Nocona, TX. Pauline was born on December 30, 1938 in Nocona to John & Cora Gross Bellah. Pauline wanted it to be known that her God and her family were the ones who made her who she was. She was a Pentecostal and very involved in the Wow, Women of Wisdom Group at Freedom Life Church in Bowie. Attending classes all the way until a couple of weeks before her passing. She married Mike Heathington on October 7, 1984 and they enjoyed a long marriage together. She is preceded in death by her parents, and 7 siblings. She is survived by her husband, Mike Heathington of Montague, TX, children, Tammy Beckham & husband Ronnie of Nocona, TX, Cindy Billings & husband James of Nocona, TX, Laurie Klimkoski & husband Randy of Childressberg, AL, sisters, Nita Rodgers of Fort Worth, TX, Pat Bella of Athens, TX, grandchildren, Jesse & Jamie Beckham, Amber & Don Lewis, Garrett & Abby Klimkoski, Eythan & Chandler Klimkoski, Alex & Dosson Stubblefield, Thomas & Tanna Billings, Taylor & Bobby Walcutt, Phillip & Cari Billings, Cheryl Johnson, Shaden Johnson, Kaylee Johnson, Cash Johnson and 13 great-grandchildren. There will be a visitation on Monday, June 8, 2026 from 1 P.M. until service time at Molsbee Chapel Church, Montague County Texas. A celebration of life will start at 3 P.M. at Molsbee Chapel Cemetery with Minister Weldon Wright officiating. Pallbearers will be Grandsons, Jesse, Garrett, Thomas, Eythan, Phillip, Cash, Joe Tom Hancock. Honorary Pallbearers will be granddaughters, Amber, Taylor, Alex, Shaden and Kaylee. Memorial donations may be made to Freedom of Life Church/ WoW, 204 Theatre Dr., Bowie, TX 76230, or Molsbee Chapel Cemetery Assn.

Alisha Dawn Parsons, 46, of Nocona, Texas, passed away on April 26, 2026, in Dallas, Texas, with her family by her side. Alisha was born on May 31, 1979, in Durant, Oklahoma, to Eddie Jackson and Vivian Moon. She married Nick Parsons in Nocona, Texas, and together they raised two children, Abriawna Moon and Gage Parsons. Alisha was a homemaker, a bookkeeper for Parsons Transports, and a licensed cosmetologist. She dedicated much of her life to caring for her family and supporting those around her. Her greatest love in life was her husband, children, and family, who meant everything to her. Alisha loved traveling and was always happiest near the beach or in the mountains. Out of everywhere she visited, Belize was her favorite place and somewhere she always loved going back to. Alisha is survived by her daughter, Abriawna Moon; her son, Gage Parsons; her mother, Vivian Moon; her father, Eddie Jackson and wife Bobbie; her brothers, Brandon Jackson and Cody Jackson and wife Kjirsten; and her grandmother, Jean Jackson; as well as numerous aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. She was preceded in death by her husband, Nicklas Parsons; nephew, Chevy Byers; father-in-law, Thurman Bronc Parsons Jr.; mother-in-law Denise Byers; and her grandmother, Donna Tumey.  A private family service will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Nocona Indian Booster Club and Montague County Cowboy Church. 

Corina Mincher, 80, passed from this life on May 14, 2026 in Nocona, TX surrounded by her loving family. She was born on November 23, 1945 in Atoka, OK to Ben & Mary Thompson Mincher. Corina was a kind person since the day she was born, always looking out for her family and caring for them. Corina had a twin sister, Loriena, and they were known as Pee Wee & Pug. They were inseparable and into their adult life they enjoyed going to the Choctaw Pow Wows. Corina worked at the Nursing Home in Nocona for most of her life where she continued to make sure the residents were well taken care of. Corina grew up going to the Baptist church. She was a down-to-earth woman whom loved her family very much and will be dearly missed. She is preceded in death by her parents, daughter, Malinda Beverage Marshall, granddaughter, Heather Greer, and siblings, Lee Roy, Pam, Sue, Dub, Ruthie May, her twin sister, Loriena, Houston and Lisa. She is survived by her children, Lana Greer & husband Joe Smith of Nocona, TX, Richard Beverage & wife Joanna of Bowie, TX, 11 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren. There will be a graveside service on Sunday, May 17, 2026, 2 P.M., at Ryan Cemetery, Ryan, OK with Pastor Rick Tarpley officiating. Pallbearers will be Joey Beverage, Derik Beverage, Rodney Beverage, Kendell Fleming, Savanna Nail, and Aimee Sowell. Honorary Pallbearers are, Joe Smith, Wyatt Beverage and Nora Flores. Memorial donations may be made to a charity of choice. 

Sharon Blevins, 79, passed from this life on May 8, 2026 in Wichita Falls, TX. She was born on July 5, 1946 in Jacksboro, TX to Truman and Anna May Hazelton McCallister. Sharon was a hard-worker all of her life. She loved to crochet, loved to fish, tend a garden and work outside. She was one to sit in a deer stand and instead of shoot a deer, she would take pictures. She was a very brilliant woman attending college and having a master’s degree. She worked mostly as a nurse all of her life. She was also a member of First Baptist Church in Ryan, OK. She married the love of her life, Joe Blevins on June 22, 1963 in Jack County Texas. Together they raised five sons and contributed to their community. Joe preceded Sharon in death on Jan. 9, 2020. She is also preceded in death by her parents, sons, Stacy Lynn Blevins and Larry Sean Blevins, as well as a granddaughter, Samantha, sister, Ouida and brother, Rex McCallister. She is survived by her sons, Brad Blevins & wife Teresa of Antelope, TX, Nile Blevins & wife Cheramie of Nocona, TX, Lance Blevins & wife Tabatha of Hastings, OK, sixteen grandchildren, and eleven great-grandchildren. There will be a visitation on May 11, 2026 at Jerry Woods Funeral Home in Nocona, TX at 12:30 P.M., followed by a chapel service at 1:30 with Pastor Eric Bayer officiating. Interment will follow in Ringgold Cemetery. Memorial donations may be made to Ryan First Baptist Church Angel Ministries, P.O. Box 159, Ryan, OK 73565.

Roy Edward Gilleland, 89, passed away on May 2, 2026 in Nocona. He was born on October 3, 1936 to Roy Lee and Tacoma (Poirot) Gilleland in Scotland, TX. He was an Eagle Scout, Scout Master, devout Catholic, member of Knights of Columbus and life member of the Bricklayers and Allied Craftworkers Union. He was preceded in death by younger siblings, Patsy and two brothers, Johnny and Jimmy. He is survived by daughter, Lauren Bristow, her children, Anne and Eleanor, great-grandchildren, Abey and Maya, son, Justin his children, Molly and Randi, and Roy’s wife Connie Jo. There will be no formal service. A special mass will be said in his memory at a later date and his ashes will be buried by his parents at sacred heart cemetery in Wichita Falls.

Lesli Jan Phipps, 67, passed from this life after a long, hard-fought battle with cancer at her home in Nocona, TX surrounded by her loving friends and family on April 20, 2026. Lesli was born in Nocona, TX on November 8, 1958 to Gerald “Jerry” & Lucia Painter Johnson. Lesli Jan grew up in Nocona and graduated Nocona High School in 1977. She attended Bethel Baptist Church and also supported many organizations in the community. She later attended college at Midwestern State University and was a member of the Gamma Phi Beta Sorority. She worked mostly in accounting for Northrop Grumman. She married Curtis Phipps on June 3rd 2021 in Henrietta, TX. She was loved by many and will be missed by all. She is preceded in death by her parents. She is survived by her husband, Curtis Phipps of Nocona, TX, children, Blake Gantz & wife Betsy of Euless, TX, Emily Gantz Hicks & husband Chris of Hoover, AL, Garrett Palla of Denton, TX, brother, Craig Johnson & wife Leslie of Dallas, TX and grandson, Hampton Hicks. There will be a funeral service on Thursday, April 23, 2026 at 2 P.M. at Bethel Baptist Church in Nocona with Pastor David Rogers officiating. Interment will follow in Hope Cemetery, Henrietta, TX. Pallbearers will be Will Johnson, Ben Johnson, Ryan Johnson, Kevin Johnson, Kaye Rhoades, Tom Skinner and Bill Holcomb. Memorial donations may be made to the Susan G. Komen Foundation at www.komen.org.

Sammy Joe Mitchell, 78, passed from this life on April 19, 2026 in Spanish Fort at his home surrounded by his loving family.  Sammy was born on June 4, 1947 in Nocona, TX to Bonnie O. Mitchell Jr. & Mary Lou Cross Mitchell. Sammy grew up in the Spanish Fort area and went to school at Prairie Valley Schools.  Sammy was a hard-working farmer, rancher, and mechanic all of his life, and served his nation in the Airforce.  He was known to take the shirt off his back or anyone in need.  Sammy was a godly man and was a member of First United Methodist Church in Spanish Fort.  He married the love of his life Robbie Hawthorne on May 8, 1971 in Nocona.  Together Sammy and Robbie worked and contributed to the community of Spanish Fort for many years.  Sammy is preceded in death by his parents and brother, Steven Chris Mitchell.  He is survived by his wife, Robbie Mitchell of Spanish Fort, Texas, children, Joe Chris Mitchell & wife Jamie of Spanish Fort, Texas, Kasie Hamilton & husband Jeremy of Bowie, TX, sister, Bonnie Robertson & husband Gary of Spanish Fort, Texas, grandchildren, Dirk Mitchell, Brittan Shoemaker & husband Cody, Mitchell Eldred & wife Ashley, Holt Mitchell & wife Aracely, Lacey Booker & husband Andy, Kellyn Martin & husband Tyler and several great-grandchildren. There will be a visitation on Friday, April 24, 2026 from 5 -6 P.M. at Jerry Woods Funeral Home Chapel in Nocona.  A graveside service will be held on Saturday, Aprill 25 at 10 A.M. at Spanish Fort Cemetery in Spanish Fort, Texas.  Memorial donations may be made to The Montague County Youth Fair, c/o Kenton Holloway, 5549 F.M. 1758, Bowie, TX 76230.

Frances Marie Baker, 92, passed peacefully from this life on April 11, 2026 in Decatur, Texas.  Marie was born on January 8, 1934 in Spanish Fort to Charlie Lloyd and Detolia Cain Williams.  Marie worked most of her life as a telephone operator in Nocona, Texas.  She loved to sew clothes for her daughter and was a talented artist.  She was a member of the First United Methodist Church in Spanish Fort. For the past few years of her life, Marie was a resident of Independence Hall in Bowie, Texas. She was preceded in death by her parents, and her younger sister, Bonnie York.  She is survived by her daughter, Beth Hudson of Brock, TX and her grandsons, Andy (Shea) Hudson of Brock, Eric (Lauren) Hudson of Fort Worth and AJ Hudson also of Brock, along with her three great grandchildren, Laney, Coy and Bridgette Marie Hudson. Her grandchildren and great-grandchildren were the joys of her life and she loved to share their stories.   She is also survived by her niece, Karen York of Azle.   There will be a graveside service on Monday, April 20, 2026 at 2 P.M. at the Spanish Fort Cemetery officiated by her family.  Memorial donations in lieu of flowers can be made to The American Macular Degeneration Foundation at the AMDF website.

Gloria Ruth Lee Freeman, affectionally known as “Sam” to many people, went to be with her Lord and Savior on Wednesday, April 1, 2026 in Nocona, Texas. Gloria was born on January 22, 1944 to her loving parents Gerald and Margaret Morris Lee in Spanish Fort, Texas in the same house and same bed that her mother was born in.  She spent her early years in Nocona, Texas. After graduating from Nocona High School in 1962, Gloria attended both Midwestern State University and cosmetology school in Wichita Falls, Texas. After graduation, she married Bill Freeman on May 6, 1967 in Gainesville, Texas. They were blessed with one son, Stephen Freeman, which completed their family. Throughout her life, she worked as a skilled and dedicated hairdresser. In this career she was able to meet, help, and befriend many people in the various communities she called home including Arlington, Ardmore, and Austin. Later in life she also served as a nanny to several special children. Her last official job was at The Carpenter’s Shop in Nocona, Texas. She was an avid sports fan, particularly football, who loved her teams such as the Kansas City Chiefs but none more than her beloved Texas Longhorns.  If you ever doubted her love for burnt orange, you were quickly reminded by her wardrobe which was primarily Longhorn attire. While living in Austin later in life, she frequently enjoyed tailgating at and attending the Texas Longhorn games with friends and family. Gloria is survived by her son, Stephen Freeman, of Austin, as well as her sister, Marlene Bishop, and her brother Tim Lee, both of Nocona. She leaves behind her nieces Holly Leindecker, and husband Jeff, of Bowie, Hayley Bishop, of Nocona, and nephew Cody Lee, and wife Laura, of Gainesville. She also leaves behind two great nieces, Lana and Aspen Lee, and her great nephew, Lincoln Lee, all of Gainesville. She leaves behind her chosen grandson, Marshall Lyons, of Oklahoma. She was preceded in death by her husband, Bill Freeman, and her parents, Gerald and Margaret Lee. She was also preceded in death by her baby sister, Holly Lee, and her brother-in-law, Steve Bishop. Her family would like to express our deep gratitude to the doctors, nurses, and staff of Nocona General Hospital for providing the utmost care for her in her final days. A memorial service will be held at First Baptist Church Nocona on Saturday, April 11th, at 11am. Visitation will occur prior to the service beginning at 10am. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Lucky Paws Animal Shelter of Nocona as animals, particularly dogs, were something she dearly loved. 

Blake Eckeberger, 50, died in his home on March 25, 2026 with his family by his side. Blake was born on February 28, 1976 in Decatur, TX to John Milton and Darlene Eckeberger.  Blake was a free spirit and a hard worker.  He lived life his way, and he was always up for an adventure.  He worked mainly as a hunting guide and outfitter.  Blake married the love of his life Rachael Ford on March 13, 1999, and together they raised two beautiful children, Madelyn and Jacob.  Blake brought a lot of joy to the people he was around and will be greatly missed.  He is preceded in death by sister, Sunni Bratcher.  He is survived by is wife, Rachael Eckeberger;  children, Madelyn Eckeberger, Jacob Eckeberger and fiance Sky-Lar;  parents, John Eckeberger and Debbie, Darlene Potter and Walter;  siblings, Terri Wilson and Ricky, Patty Grubbs and Jimmy, Brandon Eckeberger and Dedie,  Brian Potter and Shannon, Hillary Bratcher and Jerry, Mollie McDonald and Andy, and numerous nieces, nephews, in-laws, and friends.  There will be a visitation on Saturday, March 28, 2026 from 6 – 7 P.M. at Jerry Woods Funeral Home Chapel in Nocona.  In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Bellevue Booster Club, P.O. Box 38, Bellevue, TX 76228, Goldburg PTO, 468 Prater St., Bowie, TX 76230 or Alvord Booster Club, 185 Mosley Ln., Alvord, TX 76225.

Bob Gilbert, 81, of Decatur, TX, passed away on Friday, March 20, 2026, in Denton, TX.  Bob was born on September 26, 1944, in Wichita Falls, TX, to Sonny and Zora (Quinn) Gilbert.  He spent his early years growing up in Nocona and Gainesville before graduating high school in Jacksboro, TX. He got his start training horses in Chico, TX, galloping horses while also working at Gifford Hill and Mitchell Energy. It wasn’t long before he started training horses full time.  He went from racing at “brush” tracks around Texas, Oklahoma and Kansas to racing at Ruidoso Downs, Remington Park, Hollywood Park. Finally settling at Los Alamitos where he ran from 1980 to 2001. Over his career, he had 2,525 starts with 356 first place finishes, 331 second, and 354 third. Later in life he enjoyed watching westerns, playing cards, dominoes, spending time with family, and going out to eat with friends. He is survived by his son Chase and wife Cristy (Decatur, TX), daughter Staci McAvene and husband Ron (La Mesa, CA).  Five grandchildren including Baylie Gilbert (Fort Worth, TX), Beck Gilbert (Decatur, TX), Taylor Quickel and husband Jonathan (Denton, TX), Gabbi Russell (Lubbock, TX), and Piper Russell (La Mesa, CA).  Stepsons Brad, Marty, and Bryan Coffman, brother Tom Gilbert (Runaway Bay, TX), and numerous cousins. He is preceded in death by his parents. Memorial service will be held Saturday, March 28, 11:00am at Jerry Woods Funeral Home, Nocona, TX. 

Sandra Yvonne Ice, 84, of Nocona, Texas, passed away on March 12, 2026. Sandra lived a life centered on faith, family, and community, and she will be remembered for her strength, honesty, vibrant personality, and the deep love she had for those around her. Sandra loved her family fiercely and rarely missed an opportunity to support them. Whether it was a game, concert, or award ceremony, she was there - always cheering proudly from the audience. Her joy only grew with the arrival of her great-grandchildren, whom she spoke of with endless pride and affection. Sandra was known for her love of conversation and storytelling. She enjoyed visiting with friends, sharing stories, and could “spill the tea” better than anyone. She was also an avid reader and was rarely seen without a novel close by. Her home was a gathering place for family and friends. Lunches at her home were always more than a meal - they were an experience filled with laughter, love, and time spent together. Sandra took great pride in her appearance and rarely left the house without being fully put together - hair styled, nails done, and makeup just right. She believed in presenting herself as her best self wherever she went. A hardworking and dedicated woman, Sandra poured her energy into caring for her home and family. She also had a passion for gardening and was an active member of the Nocona Garden Club. Sandra faithfully served her church community as the pianist for Bonita Baptist Church, sharing her musical gifts for many years. She was also a devoted volunteer with the Nocona General Hospital Auxiliary Committee, giving her time to serve and support her community. Sandra was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Donald Gene Ice. They were married on December 6, 1959, in Trenton, Texas, and shared more than 60 years of marriage. She is survived by her children, Paul Ice and his wife Laura; Barry Ice and his wife Marsha; and Becky McCracken and her husband Steve, sisters, Paula Caraway, Carla Todd & husband Gailen, Debbie Bosco and husband Larry. She is also survived by her beloved grandchildren, Hutch Ice, Taylor Brakefield, Bailey Ice, Katie Dixon, Hope Ice, Kirkland Hattfield, Will McCracken, Travis McCracken, and Masey Englishbee. Her legacy continues through her great-grandchildren, Dane, Hollis, Koeden, Honey, Liam, Lindyn, Bayler, Brantley, Briggs, and Miles. Sandra’s life was defined by her love for her family, her faith, and the community she cared for so deeply. Her kindness, strength, and devotion will continue to live on in the lives of those who were fortunate enough to know her. Services will be held Monday, March 16, 2026, at Montague County Cowboy Church,1600 FM 455, Montague, TX 76251. Visitation will begin at 1:00 p.m., followed by the funeral service at 2:00 p.m. Interment will follow in Center Point Cemetery. She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.

James Ervin Brasier passed from this life on March 7, 2026 in Wichita Falls, TX he was surrounded by his loving family. James was born on October 24, 1946 in Spanish Fort, TX to Mozell Linnerman Brasier. James was a good loving man and a hard-worker. He grew up to be a teacher and had his Masters. He also was a Principal and Superintendent for many years and touched many lives during his time in education. He later retired and worked at the Wellness Center in Nocona where everyone loved to see him and strike up conversation with him. He married Betty Glass on August 30, 1975 in Henrietta, TX. She preceded him in death on August 20, 2025. He is survived by his children, Jamie Brasier of Nocona, TX, Jodi Gomez & husband Benny of Nocona, TX, LeeAnn Ringstaff of Nocona, TX, brother, Charles Brasier of Henrietta, TX, 5 grandchildren and 3 great-grandchildren. There will be a graveside service at Nocona Cemetery on March 28, 2026 at 10:30 A.M. Memorial donations may be made to Hospice of Wichita Falls, 4400 Cypress Ave., Wichita Falls, TX 76310.