Elaine Irene Dorsett, 78, passed away on August 29, 2018.

A Memorial Service is to be held at 11:00 a.m., Saturday, September 8, 2018 at 702 Creekbend Dr, Pflugerville, TX 78660.

Elaine was born on February 15, 1940 to Ira and Thyra White in Austin, Texas. She married Wayne Dorsett and together they raised 2 children, Mike and Kerri. After many years at the State Comptrollers Office she retired in May of 1998.

Elaine is preceded in death by her husband, Wayne Dorsett and parents Ira A. and Thyra White.

Survivors include, son, Mike Dorsett and wife Laura; daughter, Kerri Dorsett and fiancé, Mike Hassler; grandchildren, Ethan Dorsett, Bailey Jordan, Jake Dorsett, Brandon Dorsett and great grandson, Bentley Arthur.

Arrangements under the care of Jenkins Funeral Home.

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Catherine Childs died on Wednesday, September 12, 2018 at The Manor, Morrisville, VT.

Fondly known as “Catchi” to family and friends, she was born August 27, 1920 to William Henry Harrison Childs and Catherine Oeland Childs in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Her grandfather, Eversley Childs, was co-founder of the Bon Ami Company and a well-known philanthropist. Catchi, an only child, was raised on Long Island where her next-door neighbor was illustrator John R. Neill, best remembered for his “Wizard of Oz” characters. Mr. Neill used Catchi and his own daughters as models for “Oz” children, paying them twenty-five cents an hour, a good wage at that time. She attended Briarcliff Preparatory School and graduated from Friends Academy, Locust Valley in 1938.

She discovered her love of art while in her early teens. The family wintered in Miami Beach, Florida, and she would collect seashells on the beach and work them into place cards to sell at a Miami gift shop. She saved her profits to pay for art lessons. She ultimately studied with Paul Wood in Port Washington, Leon Kroll and Hans Hoffman in New York City, and Angelo Savelli in Italy. Art became a life-long occupation and led to a long, illustrious career. She spent many years staying in Pietrasanta where she not only painted gorgeous landscapes, but also learned print making and how to sculpt in marble. Her work has been exhibited in the United States House of Representatives and many important galleries in United States, Europe and Asia. She was a past President of the National Association of Women Artists, a past President of the New York Society of Women Artists, and a member of the Board of Directors Artists Equity. She is listed in Who’s Who in American Art, Who’s Who of American Women, Who’s Who in the East, and the World Who’s Who of Women. In addition to her many memberships in important professional artistic associations, Catchi was the recipient of numerous awards and honors.

With advancing age, Catchi developed another passion – rug hooking. She brought her love of color and creativity to the craft. She enjoyed attending week-long workshops up and down the East Coast, developing new friendships, and occasionally having a four generational hook-in with her daughters, grandchild, and great grandchildren. She often demonstrated the technique at the annual Cow Neck Historical Society fair. She loved calling herself a “happy hooker”.

Catchi is survived by daughter Diane Neuse of Middlebury, VT, daughter Heather Sargent of Morrisville, VT, and son, Charles E. Willis (“Trip”) of Leicester, VT.

She was predeceased by son, Jeffrey C. Willis in 1969 and by three husbands, Charles E. Willis, Jr., Donald Twomey, and Mel Fowler. She was the grandmother of eight and great- grandmother of twenty-one.

A private memorial service will be held in the Chapel at the Memorial Cemetery of St. John’s Church. Laurel Hollow, New York, with internment to follow. Charitable gifts in Catchi’s memory may be made to The National Association of Women Artists, 315 W 39th Street, Suite 508, New York, NY 10018 or the North Shore Animal League America, 25 Davis Avenue, Port Washington, NY 11050. Assisting the family is the Perkins-Parker Funeral Home in Waterbury VT. To send online condolences please visit www.perkinsparker.com or the funeral home Facebook page.

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Barbara “Babs” Phillips Rigby passed away at the age of 88 in New Braunfels, on Sept. 8, 2018. She was born in Austin on Nov. 3, 1929 to parents Homer and Zelma Phillips.

Barbara was preceded in death by her husband of 33 years, William Robert Rigby.

She is survived by her two daughters and sons in law, Diane and Bill Mehrer and Bitsy and Mike Mayberry, all of New Braunfels; five grandchildren and five great- grandchildren including John Mehrer of Valley Glen, CA.; Joseph and Holly Mehrer and Henry of Richardson; James Mehrer and Jaime Pruna and Colin Mehrer of San Antonio; Matt and Jessica Mayberry and Bear and Kylie of San Antonio; Morgan Mayberry and Gunner of San Antonio.

Babs graduated from Liberty Hill High School in 1947 and received a Bachelor’s degree in education from Trinity University in 1951, and a Master’s degree in education from Southwest Texas State University in 1968.

For over three decades, she was a teacher/librarian in Port Lavaca, where she touched the lives of many students. Following the death of her husband, Bob, in 1985, Babs relocated to New Braunfels, where she continued to be an active member of the community serving in various civic organizations.

Babs was a strong, independent woman, well known for her high energy and dynamic personality. She deeply loved her family and friends, and she will be remembered fondly by all who knew her.

Please join the family for a celebration of her life during the holiday season on Dec. 22nd at her home in New Braunfels. The celebration will take place from 12:00-2:00pm, and all friends and family of Babs are warmly invited to attend. Please contact any family member for more details regarding this celebration.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Babs’ memory to Friends of the Library at www.friendsofthenewbraunfelspubliclibrary.com , or The Alzheimer’s Association at www.alz.org. The family would like to especially recognize the loving care and support provided by the dedicated staff of professionals at Sodalis of New Braunfels, as well as Hope Hospice of New Braunfels.

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Bari Dean Loyd, age 75, of Burnet, Texas passed away on September 17, 2018.  He was born in his grandmother’s house in Avery, TX on January 14, 1943.  His parents are Rholand Fletcher Loyd from Mt Vernon, TX, and Junetta Rhea Nicholas Loyd from Avery. The family lived in Hooks, TX, until 1953 when his father accepted a position with Texas State Teachers Association, TSTA, in Austin. 

His greatest love as a teenager was being a mechanic.  He worked for M. E. “Gene” Johnson Gulf station from the age of 14, and remained there for several years.  He enjoyed getting older motorcycles and cars and rebuilding them, selling, and getting more.  He also enjoyed spending weekends at the family’s house on Lake Travis where he developed a love for living on the lake that never left him.

He graduated from Stephen F Austin High School in 1961 and joined the USMC Reserves. He started working for the Texas Teacher Retirement System, TRS, in 1961 and retired in 1998. Retirement allowed him the luxury of living in Burnet, TX, and on Lake Buchanan. He started working part-time for Hoover’s Building Supply in 1998 and remained there until his untimely passing.

He married Peggy Joyce Reid of Austin in 1961, and early in their marriage they had three sons; Stephen Allen Loyd born March 24, 1962, Loni Ray Loyd born May 4, 1963, and finally Michael Dean Loyd born May 19, 1967. Bari, Peggy, and the three boys were faithful members of Faith Lutheran Church of Austin.  He moved his family to Liberty Hill, TX, from Austin in 1976. They transferred their church membership to First United Methodist Church of Liberty Hill. It was during this time in Liberty Hill that he and Peggy divorced, and he remarried to Velma Jean Dwyer in 1979. Jean had a daughter born on February 2, 1971 that Bari adopted, Jennifer Loyd. He and Jean continued to live in Liberty Hill until 1998, and then relocated to Burnet, TX. Bari and Jean were married for 32 years and were faithful members of the First Lutheran Church of Burnet. Jean preceded him in death 10 years ago, and Bari continued to be a faithful member until his passing.

Bari learned his amazing work ethic from his father, Rholand, who generally had many business ventures he pursued in addition to his work with TSTA. Hard work gave Bari some of his greatest pleasure and was a driving force in his life, which he passed on to his sons and daughter. He acquired his home building skills from Peggy’s father, Baxter Reid, who was a home builder and many of Baxter’s relatives that were also home builders. Baxter built their first home in 1967, which launched his lifelong passion for home building. The rigorous demands of building a home suited his budgeting, accounting, and managerial skills he had learned working for TRS. He built 12 custom homes over his lifetime, while working full-time for TRS and part-time for Hoover’s Building Supply.

God and family were his sustaining reasons for his hard work and sacrifice. He reveled in the accomplishments and successes of his sons, daughters, grandsons, granddaughters, and great- grandsons. Much of what he made and amassed over his lifetime were to benefit his legacy.

He is survived by his loving sister, Rholetta Loyd, who sacrificed much for her brother during his many bouts with heart disease over the years. He is also survived by an aunt, Wanda Nicholas of Longview, TX, three sons, one daughter, one son-in-law, three daughters-in-law, seven grandsons, one grandson-in-law, four granddaughters, two granddaughters-in-law, and 10 great grandsons.

All through his life he charmed people with his wit and dry sense of humor, which blessed him with many life-long friends and business associates. His character was above reproach and his many friends, customers, and clients looked forward to his help and insight. He will be sorely missed by his family, friends, and community.

A Memorial Service will be held at First Lutheran Church of Burnet at 133 Apollo Dr, Burnet, TX 78611 (512) 756-2967 on Sunday, September 30th at 4PM. There will be a reception following the service in the fellowship hall with a meal catered by Momma Jean’s BBQ. All are welcome to come fellowship and reminisce.

In lieu of flowers and plants sent to the funeral home or church, please make memorial donations to the First Lutheran Church of Burnet, or the American Heart Association at (800)242-8721, or the Bennie Lenox Memorial benefiting the Hill Country Community Foundation by calling Doug Fipps (512)756-8471 or mail to: Delaware Springs G.C., PO Box 1369, Burnet, TX 78611. Condolences may be offered to www.clementswilcoxburnet.com

Arrangements entrusted to Clements-Wilcox Funeral Home, Burnet, TX.

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James Ryon Degenhardt, born on April 21, 1980, in Austin, TX, departed this world on October 5, 2018, after a hard-fought almost three-year battle with cancer.

Ryon was raised in Liberty Hill, TX, by his mother Pamela Mynard, along with his brother Charles Degenhardt and sister Jacqueline Bosley-Frame, on the family farm, with his grandparents; Charles and Jacqueline Mynard. He attended Liberty Hill schools and was a member of the National Honor Society. He was an outstanding participant of LH Panther sports. Dedicated, skilled, a passionate team player that was a force to be contended with. Absolute poetry in motion, a sight to behold. Ryon graduated college from Texas State University, to become a teacher and coach (inspired by Timothy Morris, his beloved friend and coach in LH).

Ryon’s passion for teaching and coaching was evident as he served as a mentor and role model for the students at Klein Intermediate. He loved coaching and his competitive side was evident as he coached both eighth grade basketball and football. Often pushing himself to the limits, even following surgeries and chemo, he wanted to make a positive impact on each of his students’ lives. Ryon modeled dedication, perseverance through trials, and always wanted to be there for “his kids”. Ryon impacted many lives in his short 38 years. He was a loving husband to Michelle for almost 10 years and a committed, loving father to Ashlyn (6) and Caleb (4).

Ryon is survived by his wife, Michelle; children, Ashlyn and Caleb; mother, Pamela Mynard; father and stepmother, Carlton and Marilyn Degenhardt; brother, Charles Degenhardt; sister, Jacqueline Frame; grandmother, Jacqueline Mynard; his Oma, Doris Degenhardt; father and mother-in-law, Robert and Bonita Pierce; and many aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, nephews, and in-laws.

He was preceded in death by his Opa, Alton Degenhardt; and his grandpa,Charles Mynard.

Funeral services will be held at 3 p.m. Sunday, October 14, at Salem Lutheran Church, 22601 Lutheran Church Road, Tomball, TX 77377. Friends are welcome to visit with the family beginning at 2 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, the family is requesting donations to Salem Lutheran School or Klein Intermediate Athletic Program.

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Dennis Woods, 59, passed away on October 5, 2018 at his home in Liberty Hill, Texas.

He was born on August 30, 1959 in Georgetown, Texas to Willard Lee (Bill) and Bobbie Lou Woods. Dennis married his wife, Patricia (Patti) Ann White Woods, on September 17, 1977 in Lago Vista, Texas. The two raised three children together and made a wonderful life with one another. Dennis enjoyed hunting, fishing, and being out in God’s creation. He enjoyed spending time with his children and his grandchildren. He was a member of Hwy 29 Church of Christ in Liberty Hill, Texas.

He was preceded in death by his brother, Douglas Lee Woods; his father, Willard Lee (Bill) Woods; and his son, Joshua Douglas Woods.

Dennis is survived by his wife, Patti Woods; his son, Dylan Woods and wife Krista; his daughter, Katy and son-in-law James Woods (Teel); his daughter-in-law, Brandi Woods; mother, Bobbie Lou Woods; his brothers: G.W. Woods and wife Michelle, and Mickey Woods and wife Laurie; and his grandsons: Anthony, Alex, Sean, Jacob, Joshua James, Hunter, Abby, Ryder, and Colton.

Honorary pallbearers are his grandsons: Anthony, Alex, Sean, Jacob, Joshua James, Ryder, and Colton.

A time of visitation will be held from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. on Friday, October 12, 2018 at Ramsey Funeral Home, 5600 Williams Drive, Georgetown, Texas 78633. The funeral service will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, October 13, 2018 in the Chapel of Ramsey Funeral Home with Minister Danny Simmons officiating. Burial will follow in Liberty Hill, Texas.

You may leave a message or memory in the online guestbook at www.RamseyFuneral.com.

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Kenneth Joel Clark, 77, of Sawyer, Oklahoma, passed away October 7, 2018

He was born August 10, 1941 in Willis, AR, the son of Rufus Jefferson Clark and Donnia Zora (Wheelington) Clark and had lived most of his life in Liberty Hill, TX prior to moving to the Sawyer, OK area three years ago.

His parents preceded him in death. He was also preceded in death by a sister, Charlene Clark-Beck.

Kenneth married Hazel Hodge on February 12, 1971, in Dallas, TX. He was a foster parent and loved helping children with special needs along with helping other people. He also enjoyed fishing and attending Cowboy Crossing Church of Hugo.

Survivors include: his wife, Hazel Clark; sons, Keith J. Clark and wife, Sherry of Wichita Falls, TX, Kevin J. Clark of Austin, TX, Rufus L. Clark of Sawyer, OK and James Davis also of Sawyer, OK; siblings, Herbert Clark of Texarkana, TX, Ruby Herrington of Texarkana, AR, Retha Hart of Texarkana, AR and Earlene Clark of Arkadelphia, AR; grandchildren, Tristen Clark, Tiffany Clark, Dakota Clark and Hunter Clark along with many other relatives and friends.

A Memorial Service was held at 10 a.m. Saturday, October 13, 2018, at Cowboy Crossing Church in Hugo, OK. Bro. Mike Merritt officiated.

Funeral arrangements by Miller & Miller Funeral Home of Hugo, OK.

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Deborah (Debbie) Ann Witbeck of Leander, Texas, passed away peacefully at her home of stage 4B Uterine Cancer, on October 22, 2018, at 1:45 pm.

Debbie was born on October 9, 1958, in Seguin, Texas, to parents Dick Jenkins and Mary (Rutherford) Jenkins. She grew up in Seguin and graduated from Seguin High School. She went on to graduate from South West Texas State University in 1982, with a degree in Accounting and then received her license as a Certified Public Accountant.

In 1987, Debbie moved to Austin, Texas, where she met her husband John Van Witbeck, and they were married on November 7, 1987. Debbie’s two children, Kristin Witbeck and Brent Witbeck, both graduated from Liberty Hill High School and now run successful companies of their own.

Debbie and Van opened a manufacturing company in 1995 where she was able to put her CPA degree to work. Over the years she, along with her husband, was able to build a successful manufacturing company named Absolute Machine and Tooling where they produced products primarily for the semiconductor and oil field industry on Ronald Reagan Blvd. in Leander TX.

Family fun was a big part of her life. Debbie was deeply devoted to her children’s sports in Liberty Hill. Debbie also enjoyed deep sea fishing with her husband Van, kids, and friends; walking on beautiful beaches, camping, golf, water skiing, snow skiing, going to the Caribbean Islands to scuba dive, hiking trails in the mountains, and she loved seeing water falls. Her love for fun was equally matched by her love for animals. Often referred to as Snow White by her husband because of the way animals gathered around her. She especially loved her dog Trixie, a beautiful pitbull who never left her side all the way to her death.

Debbie is survived by her husband, John Van Witbeck; daughter, Kristin and partner Briana Foster; son, Brent and wife Kayla; brother, Rick and his children Mallory and Brennen; and extended family, Nina, Steve, Ashton, Cali, and Donnie Scarbrough.

Debbie was truly beloved by all that met her, she was as beautiful on the inside as she was on the outside.   

Visitation will be held at Beck Funeral Home on Friday, October 26th, from 6pm – 8 pm. Funeral Services will be at 2 pm on Saturday, October 27th, at Grace Alive Church in Liberty Hill, followed by a graveside service at Liberty Hill Cemetery.

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Terry Kim Stuart, age 63, died Sunday, Nov. 11, 2018 in Clayton, New Mexico. Cremation has taken place and a Celebration of Life service will take place in the Spring. Arrangements are by Hass Funeral Directors of Clayton.

Kim was born on September 4, 1955 in El Paso, Texas to Raymond Isom Stuart and Paulene (McKinney) Stuart. He worked most of his life as a cowboy, a heavy equipment operator and a truck driver. He was a member of the Clayton Elks Lodge, the VFW and the American Legion in Logan. He was preceded in death by his parents and by a son; Arnes Moore.

He is survived by longtime girlfriend: Karen Taylor of Clayton, two daughters: Heather Wheeler and her husband Patrick of Amarillo, and Misty Covey and her husband Travis of Crozet, Virginia. one son: Terry Don Stuart of Clayton.six grandchildren: Caden Wheeler, Aspen Wheeler, Mason Covey, MaKenzie Covey, William Stuart and Brooke Stuart. two sisters: Earla McClure and her husband Jake of Clayton, and their children; Casey McClure, Cory McClure and his wife Virginia Rose and Tierah Aragon. And Lovera Short and her husband Ronnie of Amarillo and their children; Todd Short and his wife Chandra and Kelly George and her husband Dan. one brother: Gary Stuart and his wife Pam of Nunn, Colorado and their children; Shane Stuart and his wife Gayrine, Shelley Duran and Lace Norden and her husband Matt. Many great-nieces and great-nephews. And his adopted brother: Curtis Jeffrey and his children; Terica, Talya, Will and Wesley.

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Gail Dykes of Liberty Hill was born on August 22, 1940 in Martinez, CA. After a brave battle with cancer, she passed peacefully in her sleep on November 7, 2018.

She is survived by the love of her life, Gene Dykes of Liberty Hill, TX. They were married for 57 years and raised 5 children. Ron Dykes, Rick Dykes and wife Debbie of Liberty Hill, TX, Deanna Sicard and husband Kenneth of Salem NH, Rebecca Staton and husband Brian of Wortham, TX and Robert Dykes and wife Nickie of Cedar Park, TX.

She was loved by her many grandchildren, Janne Latronica, Richard Dykes, Steven Dykes, Blake Freydenfeldt, Stacy Cantrell, Shawn Staton, David Dykes, Tasha Kelly, Cody Staton, Zachary Sicard, Chase Sicard, Mollee Dykes, Harley Staton, Kiyah Dykes, Wyatt Staton, Lilly Dykes, Ryland Dykes and Keira Dykes and many many great-grandchildren.

Gail was an active member of the Union Hall Baptist Church and enjoyed travel and adventures. We were blessed to be with her when she left this world for her last but greatest adventure, to meet her Lord Jesus Christ.

A time of visitation was held on Saturday, November 10, 2018 at 11:00 am at Union Hall Baptist Church, with funeral services at 12:00 noon at Union Hall Baptist Church in Liberty Hill. Burial followed at her much loved Buck Cemetery in Liberty Hill.

You are invited to share a message or memory in our memorial guestbook at www.RamseyFuneral.com

Arrangements made under the care and guidance of Ramsey Funeral Home, 5600 Williams Dr. Georgetown, Texas 78633 (512) 869-7775.

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Gloria Puckett, 76 of Liberty Hill passed away on Saturday, November 17, 2018. She was a member of Cross Tracks Methodist Church. She was a loving mother, grandmother, great grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend. 

She was born March 15, 1942 in Mullen, Texas, to Hugh Jackson and Charlotte Phosia Buchanan. She was preceded in death by her parents; beloved husband, Howard; infant daughter Kimberly; grandson, Zachary; sisters, Charlene Clayton, Katherine Johnson, Margie Mowery, Patsy Redenbaugh, Sybil Daily, Jaunice Outten, and brother Jack Buchanan.

Gloria is survived by her children; Charlotte Barnes and husband Zane of Georgetown, Texas; Dianna Dooley and husband Darrell of Houston, Texas; Beth Griffin and husband Jeff of Arlington, Texas; sister, Betty Jo Bevil of San Antonio, Texas; brother, James Buchanan of Houston, Texas; 5 grandchildren; 5 step-grandchildren; and 2 great-grandchildren, along with many nieces and nephews, loved family members, and dear friends.

The family will receive guests for a time of visitation one hour before the service at Cross Tracks Methodist Church with Pastor John Saint officiating. Visitation will be from 10:00 am to 11:00 am with the funeral service at 11:00 am, Wednesday, November 21, 2018, at Cross Tracks Methodist Church. Interment will follow at Liberty Hill Cemetery. 

The family has suggested memorial contributions be made to The Linus Connection (www.thelinusconnection.org) as it was an organization very close to Gloria’s heart.   

Arrangements under the direction of Beck Funeral Home, 1700 E. Whitestone, Cedar Park, Texas 78613. (512) 259-1610.  On-line guest registry at www.beckchapels.com.

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The mission of Don Cunningham began on January 29, 1942 when he was born to Wesley and Violet (Squiers) Cunningham in Brady, TX.

He departed this earth on November 21, 2018 where he will live eternally in heaven.

God’s unique design and providential path, along with the influence of his parents, family and community allowed him to live a profoundly impactful life — a life centered around integrity, humility, patience, wisdom, humor, virtue and faith.

Don grew up in Mason, TX where he developed a love of sports. It was soon apparent that he excelled in these, eventually earning a college scholarship to play baseball at San Angelo College. While this may not seem unusual, it was actually very significant as Don had contracted polio while in high school. This left him with an impairment resulting in limited mobility and compromised posture. In spite of this, living life according to his principles and foundations, caused him to stand taller than most.

Whether he was teaching, coaching or raising his family, Don always spoke clearly and with honesty. In his classic Texas drawl, he would dispense country wisdom in a way that would not only make perfect sense, but would often be quite humorous.

As an administrator at Liberty Hill ISD, Don pioneered a project to install the nation’s first sculpture park on a high school campus. This was so unique and successful that it garnered the attention of state and national news outlets. With all of this attention, Don was the first to admit that he knew very little about art and sculptures. When asked for his comment by a journalist on the topic, the reporter eagerly awaited his deep, philosophical reply. Don responded simply by saying, “I don’t know what the big deal is over a pile of rocks.”

He was never more uncomfortable than when attention was showered upon him. He exuded humility and never sought to be celebrated or to be the center of attention.

As a teacher and coach, Mr. C/Coach C often had students with challenging behaviors. He had a way of identifying with them each on an individual basis. Through his guidance and great patience, he was a master at helping students realize their true potential. Countless former students and colleagues have reported, “I would not be here/alive/in school/in church…were it not for the influence of Don Cunningham”.

Don made it his ambition to not only love his wife, Marie, with all his heart, but to love his Lord with all of his being. If there was only one way to define Don Cunningham, it would all boil down to faith. Our good God was the first thing on his mind when he woke in the morning and the last thing on his mind as he laid his head on his pillow at night. He taught this to all of his children, grandchildren, and to many of those he has touched. It was not active “teaching”; it was instruction through his actions.

Don loved to fish, hunt, and camp. One of his favorite activities was spending time around a campfire in meaningful conversation and contemplations. More than anything he loved his family. He was a devoted husband to Marie for 52 years. He delighted in the company of his grandkids and relished all the time he was able to spend with his family.

It is truly a rare occurrence to know a person of such honorable reputation and gentle spirit — a person who made everyone with whom he interacted with feel as if they were the only person on earth who existed to him at that particular moment. His legacy extends across countless individuals.

Don was preceded in death by his parents and brother.

He is survived by his wife, Marie Insall Cunningham, Leslie (Steve) Campbell, Robbi (Brantley) Hoelscher, and Corey (Stephanie) Cunningham; grandchildren Lindsay (Luke) Clement, Madison (Cooper Strand) Campbell, Erin Hoelscher, Garrett Hoelscher, Matthew Cunningham, Daniel Cunningham, Avery Hoelscher, Taylor Cunningham, Grace Cunningham, Timothy Cunningham, Jonathon Cunningham, David Cunningham; great-grandchildren Jackson Clement, Caleb Clement; “adopted” daughters Karen Luttinen Carey and Nicole Kummala; and countless other family and friends.

The family wishes to thank the exceptional caregivers at BSW STIC Unit in Temple for their provision of skilled, compassionate care.

In lieu of flowers, the family respectfully requests donations to the Salado Education Foundation at P.O. Box 458, Salado, TX 76571 where a scholarship in the name of Don Cunningham will be established.

Services were held November 24, 2018, at First Baptist Church in Salado under the care of Broecker Funeral Home, Salado.

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On Sunday, December 16, 2018, Barbara Lynnette Slattery, loving wife and mother passed away in her Liberty Hill home at the age of 61.

Barbara was born March 30, 1957 in Kittery, Maine to Donald Carl and Ouida Marie Foulk. On March 20, 1982, she married Timothy Owen Slattery. They raised a single daughter, Dawn Marie.

Barbara had a passion for gardening. There wasn’t a plot of ground she didn’t attempt to grow or cultivate some vegetable, spice, or herb. She became famous among her friends with the variety of seasonings she would prepare as gifts for special occasions. She was also known for her wit, smile, and having a kind and compassionate spirit.

Barbara was preceded in death by her mother, Ouida, her father, Donald, and her sister Mary Jo.

She is survived by her husband, Tim, her daughter, Dawn, her sister, Margret (Margo), her brother Don, and several cousins, nieces, and nephews.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, January 12th, 2019 at the Angel Springs Event Center located at 1500 County Road 267, Leander Texas 78628.

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Tina R. Lewis, 56, of Liberty Hill, passed away Dec. 26, 2018. She was born May 2, 1962, in Salina, Kansas, to the late Carol Scott and Herbert Lewis.

She is survived by her brothers, Mike Lewis and Mark Scott; aunt, Vicki Timson (Robert); uncle, James Thompson (Debi); nephews; cousins; most cherished cousin, Patricia Aberly (Ron); and her beloved dog, Ginger.

The family has chosen cremation. There will be no visitation.

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Wendell Wayne McLeod, 79, of Liberty Hill, Texas, passed away at his home on February 15, 2019.  He was born on March 3, 1939, in Florence, Texas, to Henry Brann McLeod and Carrie Ella Knight McLeod.

Wendell proudly served his country as a Corporal in the United States Marine Corps.  He worked for Internal Revenue Service for 33 years and the Liberty Hill Water Supply Corporation for over 40 years, as well as being one of the first members of the Liberty Hill Volunteer Fire Department. He enjoyed serving his community as a member of the City Council and as song leader and deacon at the First Baptist Church.  He enjoyed being outdoors, hunting, fishing, and working at “the place.” He fiercely loved his family and one of his greatest joys was being a husband, dad, grandpa and great grandpa.

Wendell was preceded in death by his father and mother, Henry and Carrie McLeod and younger brother, Douglas Knight McLeod.  He is survived by his wife of 53 years, Mary Ann Cox McLeod; sister, Shirley Burress; daughters, Audra Wilkinson and husband Darren; Debra Brown and husband Bobby; Karla McLeod; son, Clifton McLeod and wife Evelyn; son-in-law, Bruce Krueger; grandchildren, Haley Krueger Lowrance and husband Wesley; Brady Krueger; Matthew Wilkinson and wife Katy; Meghan Wilkinson Griffith and husband Luke; Matthew McLeod and wife Jade; Emily Krueger; Bethany McLeod; Sarah McLeod; Connor McLeod; and Jacob McLeod; and great grandchildren, Marshall Lowrance, Braxtyn Krueger-Hayden and Henry Lowrance; and many nieces and nephews. Along with his beloved pup Penny (squirt).

In lieu of flowers, contributions in memory of Wendell McLeod may be made to the Gary Sinise Foundation for soldiers at www.garysinisefoundation.org.
Arrangements under the direction of Beck Funeral Home, 1700 E. Whitestone, Cedar Park, Texas 78613, (512) 259-1610.  On-line register at www.beckchapels.com. 

VISITATION
Tuesday February 19, 2019 , 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM at Fellowship Church 
FUNERAL SERVICE
Tuesday February 19, 2019 , 2:00 PM at Fellowship Church 
INTERMENT FOLLOWING FUNERAL SERVICE
Tuesday February 19, 2019 at Lawler Cemetery, Florence 


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Donald Ray Poling Sr., resident of Liberty Hill, TX, passed away at the Georgetown Hospital on Friday, Feb. 22, 2019.

He was born in Belington, WV on Jan. 19, 1933 to Wyatt F. and Mallie A. Poling.

He retired from the U.S. Army having served 26 years as a military policeman, including a tour of duty in Vietnam where he earned the Bronze Star for meritorious service. After retiring at the rank of Sergeant First Class, he worked as a carpenter and was an avid collector of rare coins, books, and glassware, among other things.

He was preceded in death by his wife, JoAnn S. (Brumm) Poling, two brothers, Richard and Robert Poling and two sisters, Velma Keenan and Lois Frederick.

He is survived by two sisters, Alda R. Hammack and Evelyn Davis, four children, Donald R. Poling Jr., Kristine A. Rhoads, Karen A. Konecci, Dale R. Poling Sr., nine grandchildren, 14 great-grandchildren with two more on the way.

Graveside services were held at 10AM, Thursday, February 28, 2019, at Liberty Hill Cemetery in Liberty Hill, Texas under the direction of The Gabriels Funeral Chapel and Crematory.

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HOLLIS FLOYD BAKER: humorist, individualist, artist, writer
August 17,1928 – March 13, 2019

Hollis Floyd Baker was born August 17,1928 and died March 13, 2019 at his home in Liberty
Hill, Texas.

Born on a Burnet County farm to Homer and Lola McCoy Baker, Hollis moved with his parents
into the town of Burnet, Texas at the age of four. There he grew up with his two sisters, behind
the grocery store and gas station that his family traded for the family farm. These experiences
were early influencers of the humorist, individualist, and artist Hollis would become.

After graduating from Burnet High, Hollis attended Texas A&M in 1949. He also fell for Alice
Wanda Pirtle, a farm girl and valedictorian from North Texas. His life as an Aggie was
interrupted by Uncle Sam, and Hollis always said his Army career was spent fighting cactus,
sand and barbed wire at Fort Bliss in El Paso. During that time he married Alice on a three-day
leave, and they later settled in Austin while Hollis attended The University of Texas.

Hollis and Alice raised their kids — Gordon, Jeannette, and Greg — in Austin as Hollis applied his
creative talent to earning a living. He learned the art and trade of graphic design and sign
painting. In 1955, he and Alice began one of Austin’s most established family businesses, Hollis
Baker Sign Company. All three children grew up working in the shop, which still thrives today
under management of Greg and his wife, Vickie.

Hollis was a humorous and inspiring storyteller; his stories were true, or as he put it, “mostly
true, but always entertaining.” He honed his public speaking prowess as a decades-long member
of Balcones Toastmasters Club. After moving to Liberty Hill in the 1980s, Hollis and family
sank deep roots. He served on the School Board, and he and Alice became beloved members of
the community. After retirement, Hollis wrote weekly stories for the Liberty Hill Leader and The Liberty Hill Independent newspapers. His stories now exist in a published five-volume collection titled Shin
Oak Ridge series.

Hollis perfected the art of smoking a brisket, growing geraniums, and digging a posthole. He
built his own house and generously helped others with their projects. He was a voracious reader
of history and lore. He created beautiful paintings and labored over the stories he wrote. Hollis
loved spending time with his family, swimming, gardening, tending chickens, and watching
birds. Most of all, Hollis Baker never met a stranger, and whether he and Alice were traveling
around Europe, lounging on a beach in Hawaii, or simply running an errand at HEB or the bank,
those trips became social outings filled with laughter and friendship. Hollis and Alice joyfully
engaged with everyone they meet.

Hollis, or Paux, as his grandchildren and great-grandchildren knew him, is survived by Alice
Pirtle Baker, his wife of 67 years; his sisters Leta May Ebeling and Dolores Jo Bostic and
husband Bob Bostic; his son Hollis Gordon Baker and wife Peggy Sweet; his daughter Jeannette
Baker Commet; his son Gregory Howell Baker and wife Vickie Hinkle Baker; his grandchildren,
Zachary Todd Baker and wife Sarah Baker; Zane Thomas Baker and partner Chelsea Brown;
Hollie Gayle Baker and husband Kevin Anderson; John Thomas Leverette IV and wife Mandy
Hudgens; Christopher Hollis Leverette; Travis Ryan Baker; Brittney Majefski and husband John
Majefski; Caroline Sweet and husband Jorge Ramirez-Sosa; and great-grandchildren Olivia
Susan Baker; John Thomas Leverette V; Silas Ramirez-Sosa, and Emil Ramirez-Sosa. And many
beloved nieces and nephews.

A Memorial Service is scheduled for 2 p.m. Saturday, March 23, at Fellowship Church, 3600 RR 1869 in Liberty Hill. In lieu of flowers, the family is requesting donations to the Liberty Hill Public Library.

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March 26, 1943 — March 9, 2019
Liberty Hill, Texas

Sally Ann Jyring, 75, passed away on March 9, 2019 in Round Rock, TX. She was born in St. Paul, MN on March 26, 1943 to Kenneth and Gertrude Berquist.

Sally was preceded in death by her loving husband Richard and is  survived by sons, Timothy Jyring of Pflugerville, TX, and Thomas Jyring of Honolulu, HI; two grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; brothers, Jim Berquist (Bonnie) and Ted Berquist (Jodie) of St. Paul, MN; and many, many friends.

Richard and Sally were married on September 22, 1962 in St. Paul, MN. An enthusiast of most things art, her early focus on singing and dancing later evolved into emphasis on drawing, painting, gardening, and floral design, where she owned and operated her own businesses in Eau Claire, WI and Austin, TX. Sally was also a top Avon seller for more than 20 years, an endeavor she used to meet new people and make new friends – a summation about the type of person she was.

A memorial service was held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, March 16, 2019 at the First United Methodist Church, 115 E. North Street, Bertram, TX 78605. She will be sorely missed by all who knew her.

Arrangements by Weed-Corley-Fish Leander. Remembrances may be left at www.wcfish.com

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Jeffrey Austin Roller, 23, was born on June 16, 1995 in Austin, TX to Jeffrey Ray Roller and Nancy “Breland” Roller. Austin passed away on March 27th, 2019 in Hugo, OK.

Growing up in the Austin area, Austin enjoyed fast cars, big trucks, and loud music. After graduation, Austin moved to Hugo to be with his friends. There he enjoyed living on a large ranch surrounded by his friend and many animals

Survivors include: his parents Jeffrey and Nancy Roller of Liberty Hill, Texas; his brothers, Kristopher Ray Roller of Leander, Texas, Justin Jackson of Gatesville, TX; his sister, Sierra Dawn Roller of Georgetown, TX; his grandparents, Lester Ray Roller and Jewel Lyn Roller of Copperas Cove, TX, Hacha Breland of Cedar Park, TX, and numerous other family and friends.

Services will be Saturday, April 13, 2019 at Rockpointe Church in Liberty Hill at 11:00 AM.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks for donations to be made in his name to the Muscular Dystrophy Association.

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Visitation for Glen Caswell Sims of Liberty Hill was held Monday, April 20, 2019, at Beck Funeral Home, Cedar Park, Texas.

Mr. Sims, who passed away on April 19, 2019, was a retired heavy equipment operator. He was born in Burnet on March 16, 1951, to George Caswell and Mary Lucille Haydon Sims. He was a graduate of Liberty Hill High School. He married Bonnie Baker on June 5, 1971, in Liberty Hill.

Survivors include his wife, three children, Kimberly Daniels of Liberty Hill, Fonda Sims of Georgetown and Kyle “Bubba” Sims of Liberty Hill. Other survivors include sisters Anna Lou Johns of Liberty Hill, Modina Kunze of Lometa, Marie Sims of Liberty Hill, Darlene Kepler of Lampasas, and a twin brother, George Lynn Sims of Bosier, LA.; and several grandchildren, great-grandchildren and numerous friends and relatives.

He was preceded in death by his parents and one son, Tommy Glen Sims.

Sims is remembered as an extremely hard worker, his love of westerns on television and his appreciation of antiques.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in memory of Glen Sims may be made to the ALS Foundation or charity of choice.

Arrangements under the direction of Beck Funeral Home, 1700 E. Whitestone, Cedar Park, Texas 78613, (512) 259-1610. Online guest registry at www.beckchapels.com.

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