Obituaries

Ricky Leon Reed, 69, of Nocona, Texas, passed away peacefully on October 25, 2025 in Wichita Falls, TX, surrounded by his loving family. Ricky was a devoted husband, dad, and PawPaw who found his greatest joy in life through his family. Born on June 26, 1956, in Nocona, TX to Earl and Beatrice Reed, Ricky spent his life in the town he loved. He married the love of his life, Rita, and together they shared 42 wonderful years built on faith, laughter, and love. Ricky was the heart of his family – the one everyone turned to for guidance, advice, or just a steady hand when things got tough. Long before Google, Ricky had the answers. His family always knew they could call on him. He was their rock, and a true example of what it meant to be a great dad. He took pride in his work and could run a backhoe like it was second nature, enjoying every minute of it.  He is survived by his wife, Rita Reed; son Steven Reed and wife Kaylon of Saginaw, TX, son Bryan Reed and wife Stefanie of Nocona, TX; and daughter Stephanie Lemon and husband Cody of Nocona, TX. He was a proud Pawpaw to eight grandchildren — Kasen, Kynlee, Walker, Owen, Bo, Reed, Wade, and Lane — who were the light of his life. Two, sisters, Karen Teague & husband Roger of Nocona, TX , Cathy Sawyer & husband Keith of Nocona, TX, as well as several nieces, nephews and cousins. Ricky was preceded in death by his parents, Earl and Beatrice Reed. He will be remembered for his hardworking spirit, his kindness, and his love for his family. Ricky’s presence will be deeply missed, but his wisdom, laughter, and love will live on in the hearts of all who knew him. Visitation will be October 28, 2025 from 6-7pm at Jerry Woods Funeral Home. Services will be held at Montague County Cowboy Church on October 29, 2025 at 10:00 am with graveside to follow at Montague Catholic Cemetery.  Pallbearers: Randy Ritchie, Jeff Skinner, Tony Barger, Wesley Barger, Colby Barger, and Luke Barger. Donations may be made to the Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation or a charity of your choice.

Marty Daniel Henson, 48, passed from this life on October 20, 2025, in Fort Worth Texas. He was born February 25, 1977, in Nocona, Texas and resided there his whole life. He was a 1995 graduate of Nocona High School. Marty was a heavy construction operator, worked in the oil and gas pipeline industry, and worked for the Counties of Montague and Cooke. He enjoyed football, The Dallas Cowboys, loved music and his guitar. He loved spending time at the Lake Cabin and enjoyed friends and family at the Lake every 4th of July. He was always reminiscing the memories of his many hunting trips and childhood with his buddies.  Marty is survived by his wife Patty Ryan Hostetter, stepsons Ian, Evan and Austin Hostetter and his parents Steve and Glenda Lee Henson along with a host of dear friends, family and cousins.  He is preceded in death by his Grandparents Irving and Peggy Henson, and Charley and Dean Lee, and Uncle C.W. Lee.  A memorial service will be held Saturday, October 25, 2025, at 2 p.m. First Baptist Church, Nocona Texas  Honorary Pallbearers will be Jeff Terry, Jarett Davis, Joey Thibodeaux, Staley Keck, Orville Abeyta, Rusty Harris, Tommy Price, Mike Foster, Michael Ryan, Cody Russell, Cody Beckham, Richard Beverage and Michael Vicari.

Tracey Ann Henderson Tuggle

May 22, 1971- October 14, 2025

Tracey Ann Henderson Tuggle was born on May 22, 1971 at Harris Hospital in Fort Worth, Texas to Frankie Allen Henderson and Noma Lee Kelton Henderson. She was their only child.

Tracey graduated from Liberty Christian School in Denton, Texas, in June 1989. She began her college studies at Tarrant County Junior College that same year, later transferring to the University of Oklahoma in Norman in 1991, and ultimately to Stephen F. Austin State University in Nacogdoches, Texas. There, she earned her degree in Elementary Education with specializations in Reading and English, completing her student teaching in Special Education and Reading while finishing her certification. She graduated on August 13, 1994.

Tracey was a person whose heart was for children and education. Her dedication and kindness were known and deeply appreciated by her students and colleagues alike. She was a devoted teacher who loved working with her students and making a difference in their lives. Through her endless patience, creativity, and compassion she taught Life Skills at Taylor Elementary in Burleson (1995), Special Education in Tenaha (1996), First Grade in Lampasas (1997), Pre-Kindergarten in Terrell (1998), Special Education at Kennedy Elementary in Terrell (2000), Special Education Math teacher at Mineral wells Junior High (2002), First Grade Teacher at Mineral Wells ISD (2014), Resources Teacher at Bridgeport High School (2015), and Special Education Teacher at Bridgeport Middle School (2017) where she retired early in May on 2020 due to her cancer.

Tracey was diagnosed with stage 4 glioblastoma when it was discovered she had a brain bleed in November of 2017. She had surgery and started radiation at MD Anderson in Houston that December. This would be the beginning of a 9 year long uphill struggle that would include 2 more tumors but yet also filled with faith and prayers that she could make it just another year. Tracey was known to be extremely stubborn and cancer did not affect her in this area even for a second. She became a part of the 5% who survived for more than 5 years with brain cancer. Even when she finally neared the end, she was given 2 weeks and surpassed even that as well. She continued to be steadfast in her faith and would always say “God’s not finished with me.” She was finally embraced with heaven’s relief in the early morning of Tuesday October 14. 

Special thanks to Raquel's Wings, Texas Cowboys Against Cancer, and Bridgeport Medical Center for being a huge support in getting Tracey to and from Houston and to receiving the care she needed for the time that God allowed her to have with us.  Tracey met her husband John David Tuggle in Nacogdoches. They had two children, Savannah Rae (1999) and Lane Alexander (2002).  She is preceded in death by her grandparents Frank Jasper Henderson and Gertrude Marie Brown, Roy Willard Kelton and Junie Lucille Robinson, and a grandbaby. She is survived by; her husband John David Tuggle, her son Lane Alexander Tuggle, her daughter Savannah Rae Jones and son in law James Ryan Jones, her grandchildren Nolan Ryan and Gwen LeeAnn Jones, her parents Noma Lee Henderson and Frankie Allen Henderson, her in laws Bobbie Jean Tuggle and Billy Ray Tuggle, her best friend Gwen Monday Smith, and a host of other family members and friends. There will be a visitation on Friday, October 17, 2025 from 6 – 7 P.M. at Jerry Woods Funeral Home in Nocona. Her funeral will take place. Saturday, October 18th, 2025 at 10 am at Bethel Baptist Church in Nocona Texas. Interment will follow in Molsbee Chapel Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, we ask for contributions to be made to Molsbee Cemetery, Raquel's Wings, www.rwfl.org, and Texas Cowboys Against Cancer, www.cowboysagianstcancer.com.

Beverly Ann Durham was born February 19,1948, in Sulphur, Oklahoma, to B. T. (Pete) Peden and Betty Jo (Eason) Peden. She received her eternal entry into the presence of the Lord on Sunday, October 5, 2025, in Nocona, Texas. She was married on July 27, 1968, in Electra, Texas, to Rev. Calvin M. Durham, a young minister from Nocona, and they rejoiced in 57 years of active ministry throughout the world in the Assemblies of God and other organizations as pastor, evangelist, Christian educator, Christian camp speaker and director, and missionary assignments. Beverly was one of the godliest women to ever live, and her vivacious, loving, and Christ-like  spirit touched thousands during her lifetime serving as a pastor’s wife and partner in ministry, teacher, and mother. Her smile, compassion, prayer life, and caring personality were traits admired and replicated in countless other girls and women that she mentored by example and love throughout her lifetime.  A lover of history and travel she attended Southwestern Assemblies of God University, Midwestern University, East Texas State University, and graduated from the University of Mary Hardin-Baylor with highest honors. She traveled on four continents and almost all fifty states in ministry and teaching capacity both as a public, private, and church schoolteacher of history and Bible. As a musician she played the organ, piano, and clarinet. As a lover of music, her voice in singing was always the sweetest in solos and in choirs.  In her senior Electra High School Annual, she stated her goal in life was to “study theology,” and on the day of her high school baccalaureate service, she would meet Calvin as he was the guest speaker in her home church, First Assembly of God in Electra. Within a few months they would start dating, and she would experience the beginning of her childhood dream of ministry unto her Lord which never ceased!  She is preceded in death by her mother and father, B. T. (Pete) and Betty Eason Peden; her son, John Calvin Durham; and her daughter-in-law, Laura Elaine Durham. She is survived by her husband, Calvin Durham of Nocona; her brother, Gary Peden and wife, Marylin, of Michigan; her “sister”, Sylvia Schaefer, of Temple, Texas; her two daughters, Melody Sheree Durham of Nocona, and Candus Barrett and husband James of Justin, Texas; Daughter-in-law, Melissa Durham Brewer; four grandchildren, Justin Durham and wife Itzia of Katy, Texas, Collin Durham and wife Emily of Vigo, Spain, Bristol Durham of Saginaw, Texas, and Trinity Ann Durham of Dayton, Texas; two great grandsons, Judah Joaquin Durham and Theodore John Durham of their respective homes.  Visitation will be at and under the direction of the Jerry Woods Funeral Home in Nocona, Texas, on Thursday, October 9, 2025 from 6:00 – 7:30 PM. Celebration of Life and Funeral will be held at the First United Methodist Church, Nocona, Texas, on Friday, October, 10, 2025, at 2:00 PM. Interment will immediately follow in the Union Cemetery near Cap’s Corner, Texas. A meal for the family will be hosted at the First Assembly of God in Nocona at 11 AM on Friday. Ministers are Rev. Charles Reed, Dr. Larry Martin, Rev. Jill Barker, Rev. Justin Durham, and Rev. Collin Durham. Pallbearers are – James Barrett, Travis Shaefer, Jeff Peden, Arnold Walker, Royce Beck, and Randy Dyer. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the following research project for Dementia and Alzheimer’s disease centered in the University of Indiana. Make checks as follows: Payable to: “Alzheimer Disease Research in Pathology” and in the Memo line please place this information: “I. U. Foundation, Account #038009961 – A. D. Research in Pathology.” Mail to: Dr. Bernadino Ghetti, 635 Barnhill Drive, Medical Science Building, Room A138, Indianapolis Indiana 46202. This is the precise fund that is researching the Frontal Lobe Dementia that Beverly suffered from for many years, and to which she made life saving contributions for future generations of families suffering from the sorrows of this disease.

John Weldon Johnson Jr.

March 30, 1948 – October 5, 2025

John passed away peacefully on October 5, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. He was born in Saint Jo, Texas, on March 30, 1948 to John Weldon “Boots” Johnson Sr. and Mary Alberta (MeeMaw) Melson Johnson. He was raised between Texas and Oklahoma and took on the role of raising his three brothers — Paul Johnson, Ronald Ray Johnson Sr., and James William “Jimmy” Johnson Sr. — who later found their way to Waco, Texas, at The Methodist Home. John attended Richfield College in Waco. Those Johnson boys were always into something — full of life and adventure. Eventually, they made their way back up to Montague County, Texas, where John met the love of his life, Vickie Faye Abbott, at the Saint Jo skating rink. They married on August 20, 1976, and built their home in Montague County. Together they raised three children: James Johnson, Kimberly Johnson, and Amy Johnson Woods. John was deeply devoted to his family — the rock and provider who made sure his wife and children had everything they needed. Known for his generosity and big heart, he was always willing to lend a helping hand without judgment. He worked most of his life at Bowie Industries before retiring, and later worked the night shift at Walmart as a janitor. If you ever saw a tall, broad man in Liberty overalls and a cap — that was John. He never met a stranger and could talk to anyone. A true storyteller, he had a way of making everyone feel like family. John later took on mowing jobs, including a contract to care for the Montague Cemetery grounds — a real family effort. He loved his Hustler Zero Turn lawnmower and took great pride in his work. His proudest title came when he became “Papa.” First to his grandson Malcolm Johnson, then to LaKolm Johnson, Levi Love, Madison Schelsteder, and Alexis McCarty. Each grandchild had their own special nickname given by him — MuttMutt, LayLay, Evil Eye, Madi May, and Lexi. He loved them all fiercely and was so proud of them. John had a way of finding humor in everything, especially when it came to his wife. He loved to call her “Vickie Faye Johnson” just to get her stirred up — and oh, she’d get mad at him for it every time. But that only made him laugh even harder. That was John — playful, teasing, and full of love that lasted through 49 years of marriage. He was hardheaded and stubborn in the best ways — true to the Johnson name. He could sit for hours sharing stories of his younger days with his brothers, and he always seemed to know everything about everything. He is preceded in death by his parents and his brother Paul “Tony” Johnson. He is survived by his loving wife of 49 years, Vickie Faye Abbott Johnson; his son James Cluren (J.C.) Johnson; daughters Kimberly Annie Johnson and Amy Nikole Johnson Woods; and his son-in-law Billy Woods. He is also survived by his grandchildren Malcolm Johnson, LaKolm Johnson, Levi Love, Madison Schelsteder, and Alexis McCarty; and his brothers Ronald Ray Johnson Sr. and wife Karen Johnson of Montague and their children Ronnie and Brian Johnson, and Melissa Johnson Gortney; and James William “Jimmy” Johnson Sr. and wife Penny Johnson of Alvord and their children Jamie and Andy Johnson. The family would like to thank Solaris Healthcare, Dr. Len Dingler, and the nurses at Nocona General Hospital for their compassion, care, love, and support during this difficult time. A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. Memorial donations may be made to a charity of choice.

Joe Combs, 85, passed from this life on October 2, 2025 in Bowie, TX. He was born in Montague County on June 24, 1940 at the home to Lesley & Opal Lewis Combs. Joe was a hard-worker all of his life. He was a good man and was known to be able to put anything together with a tack welder. He was the kind of man that would do anything to help someone in need, whether it was with his tractor or just his bare hands. He loved his family very much and always supported them when he could. He married the love of his life JoAnn Witt on July 4, 1959 in Denison, TX. Joe was a faithful man and a member of Valley View Baptist Church. Joe is preceded in death by his parents and a great-grandson, Cutter Combs. He is survived by his wife JoAnn Combs of Nocona, TX, son, Joe Bob Combs & significant other, Terri Brown of Nocona, TX, sister, Jan Lobban of Nocona, TX, grandchildren, Jennifer Snow & Dale, Garrett Combs & Ronni, Jody Combs and 7 great-grandchildren. There will be a graveside service on Saturday, October 4, 2025 at 11 A.M.at Nocona Cemetery with Pastor Donald Cheshier officiating. Pallbearers will be Billy Henley, Jerry Dan Davis, Rusty Harris, Brannon Kirby, Casey Don Uselton, and Jimmy Green. Memorial donations may be made to The Michael J. Fox Foundation to End Parkinson’s. 

Shana Kay Reed, a beloved mother, wife, sister, and friend, was born on December 21, 1969, in Bowie, Tx. She entered eternal rest on September 9, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of love and joy that will forever resonate in the hearts of those who knew her. She was preceded in death by her parents, Danny Roberts and Geraldine “Jeri” Kay Langford (Leonard), along with her paternal grandparents, Lester Elonzo and Margaret Blanche (Morgan) Roberts, maternal grandparents, Robert and Glenora “Jean” Smarts, and her stepsister, Andrea Pollan.Shana is survived by her loving husband, Robert Reed; daughter, Kelsey Reed; sister, Tandy Williams (Billy Ray); stepbrother, Randy Langford (Angela); nephews, Joseph Pollan (Whitney), Zach Langford (Amy), Coby Langford (Taylor), Raylen Williams; nieces, Rachel Sain (Brandon), Julia Williams; uncles, Billy Smart (Jo), Roger Roberts; aunts, Shelia Perry, Sue Smith. Along with many great nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends.A Christian woman with unwavering faith, Shana was known for her love of animals and her storytelling prowess. An excellent wife, mother and sister, Shana took great joy in creating warmth and joy for others, exemplified by her thoughtful gesture of crocheting stockings for an entire Head Start class during Christmas. She had a passion for True Crime shows, which often sparked engaging conversations. In honor of Shana’s wishes, she will be cremated, and in celebration of Shana's life, a graveside service will be held on Sunday, October 5, 2025, at 2 P.M., at Terral Cemetery, 2150 E Rd, Terral, Ok 73569. Family and friends are invited to join together in honoring her memory, sharing stories, and reflecting on the profound impact she had on all our lives.In lieu of flowers, the family ask that donations be made to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society at www.nationalmssociety.org, click the "Memorial Donation" button below, or you can make a donation to any chapter of your choice.

Glen Edward “Bo” Davis of Nocona, TX passed away August 30, 2025 at his home in Nocona. Bo was born on December 4th 1957 in Ryan, OK to Carolyn and Weldon Davis. He was a truck driver and heavy equipment operator for many years, and he took care of his mother until she passed. Glen is survived by one son, Bradley Davis and wife DeAn of McAlester, OK, three grandchildren, Tyler Sappington and wife Adrianne of Stigler, OK, Chelsea Davis of Webber Falls, OK, Christian Davis & wife Sara of Quinton, OK, Step-grandchildren, Dakota Thomas of Indianola, OK, Kaylee Thomas of McAlester, OK, McKenzie Kasper of McAlester, OK, and great-grandchildren, Jace Johnston, Ezmay Sappington, Lilly Cutright, Shooter George, Jolene Davis and Callie Davis. Glen is preceded in death by his parents, Weldon & Carolyn Davis, Grandparents, Ola Davis & Louise Kennedy and one great-granddaughter, Zaibrey Davis. Glen was loved by many family members and friends. A memorial service will be held on Tuesday, September 16, 2025 at 1 P.M. at Jerry Woods Funeral Home in Nocona, TX. He will have a private family interment at Ryan Cemetery.

Thurman “Bronc” Parsons Jr., 64, left this earth on Friday, September 12, 2025 in Montague County Texas. He was born on December 29, 1961 in Bridgeport, TX to Butch and Ginger Bussey Parsons. He married the love of his life Tressa Kaker on April 3, 2004. Together they built and ran B&T Excavation for many years. Bronc lived a very eventful life and even though he could be very stubborn he had a gentle spirit and a loving heart. He was always ready to help anywhere he was needed. His favorite thing was driving his truck which he did successfully for most of his life. He leaves behind his wife, Tressa, children, Lorri, Loni, Billy and step-son, Rob, sister, Misty and nephew, Dalton. He loved his grandchildren and took great joy in watching them grow. He had a special place for his little dogs, Tinker and Pazli. He will be remembered for his sense of humor, strong work ethic, and generous nature. He was preceded in death by his parents, son, Nicklas and great-granddaughter, Leighton. His huge presence will be missed by all who loved him. A graveside service will be held on Thursday, September 18, 2025 at Eagle Point Cemetery at 11 A.M. with Pastor Austin Wright officiating. Memorial donations may be made to a charity of choice.

Steve “Posum” McCullough, 70, passed from this life on July 26, 2025 in Richardson, TX surrounded by his loving family. He was born on April 22, 1955 in Nocona. He spent most of his life in Nocona raised by Glen & Alta Hicks Arnett.  He graduated Nocona High School in 1973 and was a very big supporter of his class, always participating in every event. He was usually seen pulling the class float in the parades.  Steve was a friend to everyone & loved by all who knew him. He was full of kindness, compassion & respect & always willing to help anyone who needed it. One of his hobbies included spending time with family fishing & had developed a love for kayaking. He was also a golfer, although there are those who would disagree, & an avid hunter. When Steve & Sandy got together, they became a beautiful & happy blended family. One of the things he loved doing the most was grilling for all the family get togethers. YouTube became his best friend when it came to learning how to grill different foods. He single-handedly took on the huge job of remodeling the inside of their home even though he lacked carpentry skills, again YouTube was his best friend. He spent many a day lovingly building he & Sandy an outdoor oasis in their back yard.  Steve is survived by his wife, Sandy McCullough, children, James McCullough & wife Ann, Krissy, bonus children, Tiffany Niles & husband Gary, Marcie Kirk, Amber Rains, Nathan Ballard, Grandchildren, Jace & Paxton McCullough, Alyssa Parker, Journie Rushing, Bonus Grandchildren, Colby Peery & Skylin, Morgan Handley & Chris, Baylor Kirk, Luke & Kaylie Niles, Brennan Jennings, Casey Hirsch, Bonus Great-Grandchildren, Reece & Renlie Handley, Colby Peery Jr., and Nephews, Michael Arnett & wife Christie, Rodney Arnett & wife Sherrie. He is preceded in death by his parents, and brother, David. A celebration of life will be held on Sunday, Sept 21, 2025 at 2 pm at Abundant Life Church in Nocona with grilled hamburgers to be served following for all who attend. Will RSVP at a later date.  Honorary pallbearers are Montague County Precinct 3 & Class of 73. In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be made to Lucky Paw’s Animal Shelter, Airport Rd., Nocona, TX 76255, or Stray Evolution, http://strayevol.org/.

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Gayla Campbell Crain, who departed this life on August 27, 2025 at the age of 75 in Plano, Texas. Gayla was a beloved mother, grandmother, sister, and aunt. Gayla Lynn Campbell (Crain) was born on June 13, 1950 in Cleburne, Texas.  Daughter of Dr. Robert Clinton Campbell and Marilyn Ruth McFadyen, Gayla was an attorney and counselor of more than just law to those who needed her. Gayla was a graduate of Baylor University, Baylor School of Law and received an Honorary Doctorate from Dallas Baptist University.   Gayla is survived by a son, Robert Crain and daughter-in-law Darci Crain of Plano, Texas, five grandchildren, sister Robbie Lehman and family, and nieces that loved her dearly.  She was preceded in death by her husband, Howard Leo Crain, and son, Clint Campbell Crain. A funeral service will be held on September 3.  Visitation will begin at Jerry Woods Funeral Home from 9:30, and service at Nocona Cemetery at 11:30 AM in Nocona, Texas. All who knew and loved Gayla are welcome to attend and honor her memory. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Dallas Baptist University in Gayla's name.

Betty Gail Brasier, 78, passed from this life at her home surrounded by her loving family on August 20, 2025. Betty was born in Lubbock, TX on February 15, 1947 to H.H. Glass & Helen Standley Glass. Betty was a hard-worker, working as an aid for Prairie Valley School and later the wellness center at the hospital in Nocona. She was a member of Bethel Baptist Church. Betty’s main love in her life was her family. She married James Brasier on August 30, 1975 in Henrietta, TX. Together they raised 4 children, Jamie Brasier of Nocona, TX, Jodi Gomez of Nocona, TX, Andy Sappington of Nocona, TX and LeeAnna Ringstaff of Nocona, TX, 7 grandchildren and 2 great-grandchildren. She devoted her life to her family, constantly supporting them at every event and always being there for them when they needed her. A graveside service will be held on September 4, 2025 at Nocona Cemetery at 10 A.M. Memorial donations may be made to Solaris Hospice or Healing Hands Home Health.

Larry Dale Cheshier was born on November 15, 1951 in Los Angeles, California. He passed from this life on August 12, 2025 in Texarkana, Texas. He graduated from McMurry University and began his career as a local manager with various electrical utility offices. He later retired as Administrative Supervisor for the AEP Turk Power Plant. Deeply committed to his community, Larry held leadership roles and was actively involved in many civic organizations, including the Lions Club, Kiwanis Club, the Cahmber of Commerce, the Planning & Zoning Commission, the Housing Authority and the Corvette Club. He also served as the Executive Director of Vernon Business Development, where he worked to strengthen & grow his community. Larry will be remembered as a loving husband, father, grandfather, brother and friend. His dedication to family, faith, and community left a lasting impact on all who knew him. He is survived by his devoted wife of 53 years, Theresa Cheshier, son, Kevin Cheshier & wife Claudia; grandson, Barrett Scott Cheshier II, granddaughter, Julia Emma Cheshier, brothers, Donald Cheshier & wife Rhonda, Anthony Cheshier & wife Lawana; sisters, Delores Hoover & husband Robert, Connie Skidmore & Sandra Vicks; & many cherished nieces and nephews. He’s preceded in death by his parents, Allen and Dorothy Cheshier, son Barrett Scott Cheshier, and brothers, Thomas Bandy, Chris, and Ronnie. There will be a graveside memorial service on Saturday, August 30, 2025 at 1 P.M. at Nocona Cemetery.

Graci Shea Hansen, born on October 19, 2001 in Decatur, TX, she was the beloved daughter of Kelly Vineyard, and lovingly raised by Chris and the late Julie Hansen. She was deeply loved by all whom had the privilege of calling her daughter. She passed away on August 20, 2025 at the age of 23. She is survived by her two precious boys Oaklynn & Brantley, grandparents, and a host of friends that loved her deeply. She was a loving mother to her boys and they were her whole world. She was raised in Price, TX and Bowie, TX. She attended Bowie High School. She was active in choir and loved to sing. She worked in the Home Health Care Field. She cared for all her patients as if they were family. She was a friend to all that she met and would help anyone in need. There will be a graveside service for her on Monday, August 25, 2025 at 10 A.M. at Montague Cemetery. Memorial donations made to a charity of choice.

James Robert Luton, 82, passed away on Monday, July 21, 2025, at his home in Nocona with his family by his side. James was born on June 9, 1943, in Fort Worth, Texas to Daurice Kyser Luton and James William “Bill” Luton. He had lived in Nocona for forty-two years. Funeral services will be held at Bethel Baptist Church on Friday, July 25, 2025, at 11:00. The family welcomes friends to a visitation from 10:00-11:00. Burial will follow at Nocona Cemetery. James graduated from Huntsville High School in 1962. He joined the US Navy Reserves and reported for active duty from 1963-1965. He served two tours of duty to the Mediterranean aboard LSDs, operating mine sweepers. After his service, he attended the Ranch Management program at TCU and began working on a ranch near Weatherford. He enrolled at Texas Tech University in 1968, graduating with a Bachelor of Science in Agriculture Range Management. Upon graduation, he began a 32-year career with the USDA-NRCS as a Range Specialist. He worked in Coleman, Follett, Miami, and Nocona, Texas offices before retirement. He especially enjoyed working with farmers and ranchers to improve their land. After retirement, he enjoyed mowing, mowing, and more mowing and being the neighborhood watchman. In 1963, he met the love of his life, Carol Ann Fisher Luton, at First Baptist Church, White Settlement, when he was home on Christmas leave. On September 9,1966, they were married by his father at Dennis Baptist Church, Weatherford, Texas. To this union were born two children: daughter Kathryn Grace Luton O’Neal and son Thomas William Luton. He loved nothing better than to attend every softball game, little league game, football game, basketball game, piano recital, choir and band performance and anything else that included his children and grandchildren. James was active in numerous capacities in every community and church where he lived, fulfilling his heart’s desire to be used by God as His servant: deacon, RA leader, committee member, yard man, camp sponsor, choir member, and unofficial greeter, as well as filling in wherever he saw a need. He served on the Carpenter’s Shop board of directors, filling many roles that also included mowing the yard. James’ greatest gift to his children was to love their mother wholeheartedly. He was a devoted husband, son, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, friend, and neighbor. He was preceded in death by his mother and father, and his sister, Carolyn Luton Neighbors.  He is survived by his wife of 58 years, Carol Ann; daughter, Kathryn Grace Luton O’Neal of Arlington and husband Kyle; son, Thomas William Luton of Fort Worth; grandchildren, Aaron James O’Neal, Mallory Christine O’Neal, William George Luton, and Anson James Luton; his sister, Barbara Luton Park; and his nephew, Scott Lambright and wife Trina and three great-nieces.    Memorial contributions may be made to the Carpenter’s Shop or Tales ‘n’ Trails Museum or an organization of your choice.   

Jay Bill Norton, 78, went to be with his heavenly father on Wednesday July 16, 2025. He passed away peacefully at his home in Nocona, TX. He was born on November 25,1946 in Walters, OK to JD and Beatrice Brown Norton. Jay Bill grew up in Frederick, OK with his mom teaching and his dad coaching. He went to Southwestern Oklahoma State University to receive his bachelor’s degree in education. He went on to coach golf and football at Frederick High School and served in the U. S. Army Reserves as a Sargent for 8 years. After his coaching career, he went into farming and ranching for many years in Chattanooga, Ok. During his ranching days, he met the love of his life, Sarah Goodner Smith. They married January 4, 1985 and made their home in Burkburnett, TX where Jay went to work for Carter Wind Systems engineering and installing wind turbines all over the states. In his spare time, he loved ranching, racing anything with wheels, 4 wheelers, mini- sprints, etc. But most of all, he loved spending the weekends at their Nocona Lake place with friends and family. This led to them retiring in Nocona Hills where Jay became a volunteer and served on the Board of Hands Up Food Bank and was a devoted member and President of the Board, until his passing, of Shady Grove Community Church.  Jay is preceded in death by his parents and a daughter, Kristi Bales. He is survived by his wife, Sarah Norton of Nocona, TX and a daughter, Laura and husband Clifford Provence and his grandchildren Kadan, Courtney, and Kylie Provence, and Joshua and Johnathan Bales all of Wichita Falls, TX. Jay Bill was blessed with six great grandchildren: Xander, Miya, Heavenly, Cash, Kinzley, and Saint. Memorial Donations in lieu of flowers may be sent to Shady Grove Community Church, Nocona Hills Volunteer Fire Dept. and Hands Up Food Bank in Nocona, TX.

Cecil E. Matheson Jr., 81, passed from this life on July 12, 2025 in Nocona, TX surrounded by his family. He was born on February 29, 1944 in Pawtuckett, R.I. to Cecil Matheson Sr. & Martha Myers Matheson. Cecil was known as a “Jack of Many Trades”. He was a hard-worker, working for Nocona Boot Company as a leather buyer for several years and later opening up his own photography business which is one thing he really enjoyed doing.  He was also a patriot of this country serving in the U.S. Army Reserves. Cecil is preceded in death by his parents and a son, Clay Matheson. He is survived by his companion in life, Julie Leaf Tadlock, children, Corey Matheson & wife Kimberly of Altamont, TN, Kyle Knight of Maui, Hawaii, Colt Matheson of Dallas, TX, Monty Matheson of Wichita Falls, TX, sister, Claudia Williams & husband Dale of Cleburne, TX, their children, Paige, Morgan, Greg and their families, and Julie’s children, Maggie Tadlock and Russell Tadlock and last but not least his many friends he held dear to his heart. A visitation will be held on Saturday, July 19, 2025 at 11 A.M. at Jerry Woods Funeral Home Chapel followed by a funeral service at 1 P.M. Pallbearers will be Joe Tom Hancock, Randy Womack, Staley Keck, Phillip Myers, Corey Matheson, Colt Matheson and Kyle Knight. Honorary Pallbearers will be Robert Fenoglio, Jim L. Keck, Elton Teague, Dale Williams, and Dwight Myers. Memorial donations may be made to Tales “N” Trails Museum, 1522 US-82, Nocona, TX 76255.