James Fuentes Medrano, age 64, passed away at his home in Liberty Hill, TX on Friday, April 26, 2019. He has gone to take his place in Heaven with his parents, Albert and Jessie Medrano and brothers, Junior and David Medrano.

James was born August 31, 1954 in Leander, TX. He was the third of six children.

He is survived by his three children, Mario Medrano, Antoinette Medrano, and Justin Medrano. As well as his sisters, Ernestina Pope, Julia Roby, and Debbie Atkinson and grandchildren Victoria, Albert, and Elizabeth Atkinson and Gabriella Medrano and numerous nieces.

James will be remembered as a great father, brother, uncle, and friend. He was a hard worker with a strong work ethic. He was a father figure to many and his home was always open to those in need. He never hesitated to help someone out.

Services will be held Saturday, May 4, 2019, at Williamson County Cowboy Church located at 8355 Ranch Road 1869, Liberty Hill, TX 78642 from 2-4 p.m.

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Grace Inez (Simpkins) Williams, age 91, passed away on Tuesday April 23, 2019.

She was born November 2, 1927 to Claude A. and Addie Floyd Simpkins in Hoover Valley, Texas. She Married JB Williams on March 6, 1948 and they were blessed with 65 years of marriage before JB was called home.

They had an amazing marriage and taught their children what true love truly was. JB and Grace moved to Liberty Hill in 1948 where they built their home together and raised their five children.

Grace had many talents and loved teaching. Her compassion for those things led to her most commonly being known as Ms. Grace. Her biggest passions were her work as an artist, a florist, an art teacher and a substitute teacher for Liberty Hill schools. She was an active member of the Liberty Hill Church of Christ and often times helped with the vacation bible school and was chosen to paint the mural for the baptismal. Grace was a true believer with a strong Christian faith and peace in knowing that she would be reunited with her loving husband JB.
 
Grace leaves behind her loving children, Sue Williams, Sharon Brown and husband Cadmus, Teresa McBeath and husband Sid, Tammy Kirk and husband Scott, James Williams, and Mary Parker who often referred as her adopted daughter; grandchildren, Tommy Brown and wife Candace, Joseph Richey II and wife Amy, Michael Daniels and wife Amanda, Angela Inez Sorrell and husband Jeff, Rowdy McBeath, Sharesa Solis and husband Simon, Jeremy Parker and wife Amy, Brandon McBeath and wife Michelle, Cherokee Gonzales and husband Ismael, Lauren Parks and husband John, Jacob Williams, Benjamin Williams, Addie Kirk, Macy Kirk and Sarah Kirk; great grandchildren, Kevin (Jezs), William (Gracie Mae), Jeffrey, Rowdy JR., Alexis Grace, Daniel, Kailey, Corynn, Ethan, Bryan, Mackenzie, Riley, Hayden, Hadley, Lillian, Richard, Amira, Irelin, Abrielle, Jaxson, Jenika Grace, Savannah Grace, Taylen, Axel and Trystan; and great-great grandchildren Sabrina Grace and Emberose Marie Inez; her closest friend Sandy and many other family members and treasured friends.
 
Grace is preceded in passing by her parents Claude and Addie Floyd Simpkins; her husband and soulmate JB Williams; and her sisters Lela Wright, Bertha Cox, Nora Simpkins, Fanny Rampy and Hazel Williams.

Funeral services were held on Saturday, April 27th, at the Liberty Hill Church of Christ. She was laid to rest beside her beloved husband at Liberty Hill Cemetery.

Arrangements by Cook-Walden Davis Funeral Home, Georgetown.

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Gregory Bryan Watts of Liberty Hill, Texas went home to be with his Lord and Savior on Wednesday, June 26th 2019 at the age of 59.

Greg was born in Abilene, Texas on April 14, 1960 to Mary Coffey Watts and George Willis Watts. He was blessed with a large and loving extended family from the very beginning that only grew throughout his life. A gifted athlete from an early age, Greg loved sports and excelled at football and baseball throughout his school years.

Greg met the love of his life, Toni, while they were both attending Cooper High School in Abilene. They married on June 7th, 1980 and remained inseparable until his passing. They became the proud parents of Erika Danielle in 1983 and Allie Carlé in 1986. In 2016, Greg and Toni became the proud grandparents of Hazel Joy Blair. Another granddaughter, Avril Hope Roseberry, is expected to arrive in September.

After attending Lubbock Christian College on a full baseball scholarship, Greg and his family lived in Lubbock for a decade until relocating to Austin in 1990. The family started attending Westover Hills Church of Christ right after the move and it continues to be their church home. After years of service there, he became a deacon and then an elder, remaining an essential leader at the church for the rest of his life.

After many professional accomplishments over the years, Greg’s greatest career achievement began in 2003 when he founded Texas Eclipse Volleyball, a Christian organization that continues to inspire and shape the lives of countless young women.

There are no words that can adequately describe the incredible person that Greg was, and the impact he had on every life he touched. He was known for his immeasurable kindness, warmth, service, generosity and love for everyone in his life. Furthermore, he was the core and the rock of his entire family. In the way he lived and the example he set throughout his life, Greg reflected the unconditional love of Jesus Christ more than anyone else we have known. Though we can never comprehend the pain he felt in this world, we know that he is now at peace in Heaven at the side of his Lord and Savior.

Preceding him in his passing was his father Willis in 2015 and stepfather Jim Hopkins in 2007.

Greg is survived by his beloved wife of 39 years Toni Gregg Watts; daughter Erika Blair, her husband Kyle and their daughter Hazel Joy; daughter Allie Roseberry and her husband Jake; mother Mary Hopkins; stepmother Joyce Watts; brother Jim Hopkins Jr., his wife Christina and their daughter Julia; brother Dusty Watts, his wife Carole, their son Seth and daughter Abbey; sister Tina Upton, husband David, and their sons Austin and Jace; sister Brandy Watts and daughters Rachael, Megan and Hannah; brother Will Watts, his wife Kristy, their son Brayden and daughter Makynna; brother Scott Hopkins and his partner Courtney Czar; and countless cherished friends and extended family members, including his niece Victoria Glomb, her husband Caleb, and their sons Wade and Levi who called Greg “Papa”.

A memorial service was held at Westover Hills Church of Christ at 8332 Mesa Drive in Austin, Texas on Wednesday July 3rd at 10 a.m.

Online condolences may be written at: http://www.beckchapels.com/m/?p=guestbook&id=2173635

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made via the Westover Hills special gift fund at https://onrealm.org/westover/Give/DLLCQDXDAR or via personal check with “Special Gift” in the memo line and given to an elder or member of the staff. You may also text “WESTOVER SPECIAL + (AMOUNT)” to 73256. Donor will receive link to complete their gift. All contributions to the special gift fund will be directed to assist the Watts family during this difficult time.

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Barbara Ann Forbes, known by many as “Nanny”, was born on May 27, 1936 in Conroe, Texas and left this world on June 21, 2019, surrounded by her loved ones.

She spent her childhood growing up in and around the Conroe area. During this time, she enjoyed spending time with her cousins at her grandmother Momma Howard’s farm. After graduating from Conroe High School she went on to graduate from Massey Business College in Houston, Texas.

In 1960, she moved to Liberty Hill with her then husband James W. Forbes, and worked for the State of Texas. Living on the farm was quite a contrast from her life in Houston. She spent a great deal of time bottle feeding baby calves and taking them to the vet in the backseat of her car. She always enjoyed telling stories of how people would point as she drove down the road with a calf in her car.

After the birth of her first child, Laura, in 1962, she wholeheartedly threw herself into motherhood. In 1964, she gave birth to her son, Jimmy Forbes. She attended every school function, Girl Scout and Boy Scout event, field trips, sport events, band events, ag events and many more activities for not only her children, but also her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. In 1984, she became a grandmother for the first time. She was more than a grandmother to her three grandchildren and six great-grandchildren, she was like another mother to them. She adored her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren beyond measure.

Barbara was a volunteer at the local outreach thrift store when it was located in downtown Liberty Hill. Helping there brought her such great joy and she looked forward to the time she spent there, as well as the local flower shop.

She is preceded in death by her son Jimmy Forbes, her brother Tommy Howard, her mother Inez Palmer, her father Archie Howard and her step-father John Palmer. She is survived by her sisters Winifred Weisinger ( Bill) and Mary McLean, daughter Laura Glass (Peter), granddaughters Christina Helms (Jordan), Lacie Hale (John), grandson Scott Helms (Casey) and great grandchildren Nolan Helms, Hutson Helms, Emory Walther, Owen Walther, Annie and Marlie.

Barbara spread sunshine wherever she went, often heard singing “You Are My Sunshine” to the youngest members of the family. She never met a stranger and was kind to everyone. We will miss her dearly and will do our best to instill her legacy of spreading sunshine to the great-grandchildren she loved so dearly.

At her request, private family services will be held.

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Donald (Don) Harlow Cranford, 78, of Liberty Hill, Texas passed away peacefully in his home surrounded by his family on June 2, 2019 following his battle with cancer.

Don is survived by his loving wife of 55 years Janice, his children Cindy Montemayor and husband Roy; Vicki Cranford and fiance Steve Tysor and Stephen Cranford; his grandchildren, Shane and wife Tristen, Lauren, Valerie and husband Austin, Jaime, Trinity, Tyler and Zach and his great grandchildren Josephine and Dryden as well as his sister Joyce Tigert and husband Joe; sister-in-law Carol Cranford and numerous nieces and nephews. Don was predeceased by his siblings Jack Cranford, Donora Todd, brother-in-law Jack Todd and daughter-in-law Crystal Cranford.

Don was born in Smithville, Oklahoma on July 25, 1940 to Bonlyn Eugene Coleman and Harold Clifton Cranford.

Don loved hunting, fishing and spending time with his family, he always told anyone who had his attention for even a minute he had the greatest family ever and how proud he was of his family.

Cremation was under Cook Walden-Davis funeral home in Georgetown. A family gathering will be held at a later date.

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Donald Layne (Don) Crawford, 72, passed away on June 27, 2019, in Liberty Hill, TX. Don was born on October 25, 1946, in Baton Rouge, LA, the son of Joe Crawford and Mildred Weaver Crawford. 

Don earned a BA in Communications and Biblical Studies from Abilene Christian University and completed graduate studies in interpersonal communications, philosophy, Christian apologetics, and human rights law at universities in the U.S. and the University of Strasbourg. He had a multifaceted career, serving as a Christian minister in four states, as director of an energy education program for the state of Texas, and as a statewide intake specialist for a Texas abuse hotline. He was the host and producer of “The Flip Side,” an award-winning radio talk show in Austin and Los Angeles, and also hosted the “Christian Encounter” radio program, which was carried on the Armed Forces Radio Network, and received an award of commendation by the U.S. Department of Defense for outstanding service to the Armed Forces. Don was the author of Faith on Fire, published a few days before his death.

Don is predeceased by his parents. He is survived by his wife of 22 years, Rhonda, by his children Christin Crawford, Corey Crawford (and wife Heather), and Cason Crawford (and fiancée Hillary), by five grandchildren, Miette, Sunny, Sarah, Savannah, and Shayne, and by his twin brother Ronald Crawford (and wife Mary Alice), sisters Cathy Durham (and Ed Locke) and Sharon Hoffman (and husband David), sister-in-law, Thaila Robertson (and husband Jim), brother-in-law Marvin Wilcoxen and numerous nephews and nieces as well as several great nephews and nieces.

His family and friends will remember with joy his vivacious nature and fun-loving spirit, his gift for and delight in storytelling, his unfailing kindness, his inability to meet a stranger, and his deep Christian faith. 

A memorial service will be held on July 20, 2019 at 1:00 pm at the Leander Church of Christ, with Peter Gunn officiating. A meal will be available afterwards.

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Pamela Lingle (Newell), our beloved wife, mother, and grandmother passed away on July 19, 2019 at her home in Bertram, TX.

Pam was born to Philip and Betty Jo Newell in McAllen, Texas, where she grew up with her sister Paula. They moved to Corpus Christi where she married and became mother to her three precious sons Danny, Jeff and Kent Walker. She eventually moved to the Austin area and lived in and around Austin for the rest of her life. Pam became a licensed counselor and spent her life’s work counseling for people struggling with drug addiction. She met and fell in love with Mike Lingle in 1990 and they married in 1997.

Pam loved riding motorcycles, reading, and her animals. She fed the birds and squirrels but most of all she loved her puppies. Her most passionate hobbies were her children and grandchildren. She was their number one fan in everything they pursued. She was an avid football fan, which worked out well having three sons who each played football. Eventually two of her sons became football coaches and she rarely missed any of their games. Pam perfected the art of showing up early (as in four or five hours) since she wanted everyone to have good seats especially at away games. She also collected a massive wardrobe of all the necessary school colors. Her favorite was the purple for Liberty Hill. When it came to her five precious grandchildren Pam was all in. She could always be found at any of their sports events, ceremonies, performances, and activities. She never met an occasion that didn’t require spoiling them with over the top presents. Above all she loved spending time with her family and was generous with her love for them.

Pam is survived by Mike Lingle, her husband of 29 years; her sister Paula Law; her sons Danny Walker and wife Alisa, Jeff Walker and wife Miranda, and Kent Walker and wife Sarah; her grandchildren Daniel Walker and wife Colleen, Will Walker, Regan Walker, Madison Walker, and Eli Walker; and beloved nephews Chris and Michael.

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Cameron Cosper, 21, was called to his eternal resting place on August 1, 2019. He entered this world on September 28, 1997 in Longview, TX, born to Jerry and Sherri Cosper.

Cameron was a resident of Pflugerville Texas. He passed from a motorcycle accident in San Antonio Texas.

Cameron graduated Manor High in 2016 and later received his certificate of completion in Welding Technology from Texas State Technical College in December 2018. He was employed as a welder by Dennis Steel of Leander Texas.

He enjoyed spending time with his friends and family and being outdoors. Always willing to lend a helping hand to a friend in need. Cameron enjoyed simple pleasures and observed the world and would always think before speaking. He had wisdom beyond his years. He will be deeply missed by all.

He is Survived by his mother Sherri Cosper of Liberty Hill, Tx. father Jerry Cosper of Manor, Tx. brother Blaine Cosper and wife Ashley Cosper of Austin Tx. Grandparents Dennis and Beverly Fogarty of Jacksonville Fl. and Robert and Mavis Cosper of Longview Tx. His nephew Alexander Cosper. Also survived by Aunts and Uncles Camie Flowers, Denise Davis, Morgan Allen, Randle and Yvonne March, Murry Flowers and survived by many loving cousins and friends.

Memorial services will be held at Beck Funeral Home in Pflugerville Texas on August 10th at 2pm.

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Frank J. Watson Jr., or “Poppi” as he was called by his grandchildren and many others, died Friday, August 23, 2019, with his children, family, and close friends at his side, surrounding him with an abundance of love. Frank was a 37-year resident of Liberty Hill, Texas, a community he loved dearly and worked tirelessly to make better.

He was born on January 23, 1948, to N. Catherine Sweeney and Frank J. Watson, Sr., in Lake Charles, Louisiana. His childhood was blessed with a large family and many friends with whom he has remained connected to throughout his life. Frank was an avid outdoorsman who loved to hunt and fish. Duck hunting in the marshes, fishing on the bayous, rivers, lakes, and even the Gulf in his father’s boat created some of his fondest memories with them.

Frank was also a star athlete in his youth. He played as a starter on the championship Lake Charles High School basketball team, and he also excelled in track and field at the high jump and javelin throw. It’s also in high school where he met and began dating the love of his life, Lynda (Lyn) Gail Jackson, whom he married on May 31, 1968. Frank and Lyn both attended Louisiana Tech University.

Frank and Lyn moved to Houston, Texas in 1972 where Frank worked first in construction, and then later in sales related to the oilfield industry. After 10 years in Houston, Frank welcomed an opportunity to transition into the mortgage industry and moved with his wife and two children, Todd and Lecia, to Liberty Hill, where he has lived since. In 1989, Superintendent Louine Noble hired Frank as the business officer for the Liberty Hill Independent School District. Thus began a 27-year career in Texas school finance and budget management where his position morphed into the district’s first Chief Financial Officer. During his nearly three-decade tenure in this role, Frank worked for four different superintendents and scores of school board trustees where he helped guide the district’s financial health — enabling the district to flourish and grow to meet the needs of the growing community. Until his retirement in 2016, Frank strived to make every cent of revenue for the district be used prudently to serve the needs of the students. Even in retirement he was actively engaged in working toward the continual betterment of LHISD. His heart was truly dedicated to Liberty Hill providing the very best public education possible.

Frank was preceded in death by his parents, Frank and Catherine, his sister Kathy Natali, and his brother Ed Watson. He is survived by his childhood sweetheart and wife of 51 years, Lyn, now a resident of the Wesleyan at Estrella Memory Care facility in Georgetown, Texas; his two children: Todd (wife Stephanie) and Lecia (husband Dale Egli); his three grandsons: Nathan, Jacob, and Gabriel; and many nieces, nephews, cousins, and extended family.

Frank touched the lives of so many people. He was known for his quick wit, his sense of humor, his wonderful advice, his trust, and his love. He was also known for his size and snow white beard, and was believed by many children in the district to be Santa Claus, to which he obliged. He was deeply loved by his family and many others, and there will forever be a void in their hearts with his passing; however, they are blessed to have had such an incredible man as a husband, father, grandfather, uncle, father-in-law, brother-in-law, and friend. The world and this community is a better place because of him, but will never be the same without him.

A celebration of Frank’s life will be held on Saturday, September 7, 2019, at 2:00 p.m. in the auditorium at Liberty Hill High School (16500 State Highway 29, Liberty Hill, TX 78642). In lieu of flowers, the family has asked to consider contributions to the newly formed “Frank & Lyn Watson Memorial College Scholarship Fund for Community Engagement” aimed at supporting college-bound Liberty Hill High School graduates who have been actively engaged in supporting or improving the Liberty Hill community.

In lieu of flowers, the family has asked to consider contributions to the “Frank & Lyn Watson Memorial College Scholarship Fund” aimed at supporting college-bound Liberty Hill High School graduates who have been actively engaged in supporting or improving the community. Contributions can be made online at: http://fundly.com/frank-lyn-watson-memorial-scholarship or in-person at Verabank located at 13601 W. State Highway 29, Liberty Hill, TX 78642.

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Leander, Texas – On Thursday August 15, 2019, Maggie went home to her Lord.

Maggie was born in Lima, Ohio to John and Jean Roosenberg. She married Carl Thomas Beckett (Tom), who predeceased her. She is survived by her brother Paul Roosenberg (Ruth), her son Bruce Beckett (Carolyn), her daughter Deborah Kinnison (Preston), her son John Beckett, and her son Robert Beckett. She was blessed with 10 grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.

Maggie was a sweet, smart and caring woman who was devoted to the welfare of her family, friends, employees and business associates. She loved Christ, Church and her church family, coffee, listening to singer and songwriter John Denver, and streams, ponds, lakes, shorelines and fishing.

Maggie has owned and operated a farm, bakeries, and a coffee shop, in which she employed and mentored numerous young people, including family.

She grew up in Lima Ohio and graduated from Shawnee High School. During this time in her life Maggie found and forged a lifelong trio of friends at Shawnee HS and in Lima. Maggie was introduced to Tom by his brother Harold Beckett who taught music at Shawnee HS. In 1952, Maggie and Tom married and began life together in Ohio where they resided in Cleveland, Dayton, Cincinnati with many trips to Lima and Columbus for holidays and visits with family. They and their children moved to New York to live in Poughkeepsie and then LaGrange where they owned a farm and tree nursery (Echo Pond Farms).

She enjoyed living in and restoring the Echo Pond farmhouse (built circa 1698), loved gardening and picking wild berries on literally “the back 40”, and was often joined in her outdoor endeavors by farm cats and the fearless terrier Rascal. After over 40 years of marriage Tom passed in 1993. Maggie then moved to Liberty Hill, Texas and opened a coffee shop, a baking business, and purchased land to build her home and establish a longhorn cattle ranchette. Within a few years all four of her children were also her neighbors on these scenic acres. On the ranchette she watched her grandchildren grow; loving and being loved by her family. She was there through thick and thin helping all unselfishly. The term that comes to mind when we recall this is “family first”, she was there always to help, advise, listen, and love.

Maggie was cared for and surrounded by her family until the time came to find peace and be welcomed home by her lord, and the family and friends no longer of this life.

She attended Cross Tracks United Methodist Church in Liberty Hill.  A memorial service will be held Saturday, August 31st, at 5 pm.

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James Alvin Jowers, age 76, passed away peacefully at his home on September 13, 2019, in Liberty Hill, Texas. 

James was born on September 14, 1942, in Brady to Melvin Clinton “Pete” Jowers and Roxie Lee (Hitchcock) Jowers.

James is preceded in death by his parents; brothers Melvin and most recently, Wayne Jowers.

He is survived by his wife, the love of his life, Chikako “Chiko” (Nishida); their children, son Melvin “Chris” Jowers and daughter Cathy Ann Jowers and her husband Allan Castillo; granddaughter Ashley Nicole Duncan and her husband Jacob; great-grandchildren Amaris Hope, Zaydin James and Caleb Alexander Duncan; sister Christine DeSpain and her husband Johnny and brother Johnny Jowers. As well as numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends who will miss him deeply. 

James proudly served a total of 42 years combined service in the United States Navy, Navy Reserves and Merchant Marines. After his retirement he enjoyed playing his guitars, singing and was devoted to building and maintaining his homestead and raising his goats. 

The Jowers family would like to give a special Thank You to his nieces Pam Ratliff and her husband Troy, Karen Cozby and her family, Nephew “Little” John Jowers and his wife Kerrie; his cousin, brother and friend Rick Jowers and his wife Dora. 

We also wish to extend sincere appreciation to Tim Bobbitt, Jodi and Rachel Goodman for their unwavering care, support and friendship they have provided to our father and our family. 

We would also like to acknowledge Leander VFW Post 10427 and their Motorcycle Group, Unit 10 for their generosity, support and their time. 

The family invited family and friends to the viewing and sharing of memories on Monday September 16, 2019, from 6-8 pm at Clements-Wilcox Funeral Home in Burnet. The funeral service was held Tuesday, September 17, 2019, at Clements-Wilcox Funeral Home followed by a graveside service with full military honors at the Liberty Hill Cemetery. 

Those serving as pallbearers were Ricky Jowers, Robert Jowers, John Jowers, Joseph Jowers, Troy Ratliff and Allan Castillo.

A reception followed at Leander VFW Post 10427 at 8760 RR 2243 Leander, TX 78641.

Condolences may be offered to www.clementswilcoxburnet.com.

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

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Suzy Bates, beloved mother, grandmother and great- grandmother passed away on Sept. 26, 2019, at the age of 85 at Rocky Hollow Lakehouse in Georgetown.

She was born Amy Sue Vaughan in Lubbock, daughter to Howard and Frances Vaughan.

Despite declining physical limitations caused by a 12-year battle with a brain aneurysm, she continued to amaze us with her vitality.

She earned Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees from Sul Ross University, and a Library Science degree from Texas Women’s University. She taught in the Texas public school system for 30+ years, which took her to Comstock, Marfa, Alpine, Grapevine, Taylor and Elm Mott. She then retired from teaching and moved to her childhood hometown Liberty Hill, where she earned her real estate license and practiced for 15 years. Also, she blossomed as a community activist.

She was proud to be an American and even more proud to be a Texan. She was always delighted to share her knowledge and expertise in the many areas in which she was gifted. She was passionate about helping people.

Suzy is pre-deceased by her parents, sister Mary Ann Vaughan, and grand-daughters Lisa and Stefanie Adams.

She is survived by sister Louise Marcom and husband Bert Marcom; daughters Davida Jones and Debbie Bates; three grandsons Jacob Jones, Andy Jones and Brian Adams; and one great-grandson Grey Jones.

Funeral services were held Monday, Sept. 30, 2019, at Cross Tracks Church, 101 Church Street in Liberty Hill, with a graveside service following at the Liberty Hill Cemetery.

Those attending the services were requested to wear her favorite colors: red, white and blue (or just red).

The family extends its most grateful thanks to the loving and caring staff at Rocky Hollow Lakehouse and at Wesleyan Assisted Living.

Those wishing to do so may make a donation in her name to Liberty Hill Lions Foundation Park, Liberty Hill Over the Hill Gang, or Liberty Hill Cross Tracks Church.

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After a short battle with cancer, Jerry Michael “Mike” Smets of Georgetown, TX, passed away on October 8, 2019, at the age of 77.

He was born on January 1, 1942, in Ft. Smith, Arkansas. His family briefly moved to Orange, TX, before settling in Northern California after WWII.

He is preceded in death by his son, David William Smets, and his parents, Jerry Neal Smets and Agnes Jo Carruth Smets. He is survived by his loving wife of 53 years, Sandra Smets. Also surviving him are his son, Steve, daughter-in-law, Jennifer, grandchildren Nathan and Lauren, all of Lakeway, TX.

Mike graduated from Sunnyvale HS in Sunnyvale, CA. He attended DeAnza JC and Foothill JC before earning his degree from San Jose State University, the first member of his family to do so. Prior to earning his degree, he worked for the US Postal Service. After graduation, he held positions with Memorex and National Semiconductor. He then went to work for Westinghouse, a position that took him to North Carolina, then overseas to Iran and eventually to Round Rock, TX.

In 1995, Mike fulfilled a life-long dream by starting his own custom home building company, JMS Design and Construction. He enjoyed designing and building many beautiful homes for his customers until his retirement in 2012.

He had a giving spirit and tirelessly worked at many civic minded endeavors with Liberty Hill ISD, was a long-term member of the Board of Directors of Chisholm Trail SUD and served as president of his homeowners association.

Two of Mike’s passions were cars and travel. He restored and owned several classic cars and was a regular attendee at many of the area’s car shows, proudly showing off either his 1934 Ford or 1950 Ford.

He and Sandy also loved to travel, whether it was internationally or in the United States. Together, they visited 35 countries and just this summer completed their goal of visiting all 50 states.

There will be a celebration of his life on October 25, 2019, at 3:00 p.m. at the First United Methodist Church Georgetown at 410 E. University Avenue in Georgetown. Pastor Scott Heare will officiate. There will be a reception immediately following the service at the church. Donations can be made to the American Cancer Society.

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Doris (Russell) Sealey went to her heavenly home on September 26, 2019 at the age of 98.

She was born to Neva and Lemuel “Lem” Russell on October 23, 1920 in Andice, Texas. She was a faithful wife and loving mother, grandmother, great grandmother and friend to many.

On July 6, 1940 she was joined in marriage to Travis Eudell Sealey at the First Baptist Church of Houston in the pastor study. They had three children, two sons, Tommy and Jacky and one daughter Sherlyn. Throughout her life she prioritized her strong faith and the importance of being the best wife, mother and grandmother her family could ask for.

In addition to being an incredible influence and inspiration to her family, she was active in her community and church. Not only was she a member of First Baptist Church for over 50 years, but she also served in a variety of roles within the church. Perhaps her favorite and most memorable role was that as a Sunday School teacher for the 1st and 2nd grade classes where her love for children and God intersected. She also enjoyed being an active part of First Baptist Church’s Main Street Bethlehem until her health forced her to step away.

She was no stranger to hard work. After she graduated from Jarrell High School, she worked in a variety store in Big Springs, Texas where she earned a salary of $10 per week. After moving to Jarrell, Texas she worked as a waitress at Mom’s Café in Florence, Texas. Upon relocating to Briggs, Texas she worked as a cook in the lunchroom at Briggs School where she was able to use her talents in the kitchen to ensure the students were well fed. Eventually she found her calling as a nurse and started taking classes while also working at the Florence Hospital. For over 25 years thereafter she was honored to serve as a nurse for Dr. Peggy Newman at Shepperd Clinic. Even after retiring as a nurse, she worked at the Burnet Early Head Start where she could continue to share her love for children by rocking as many babies as possible.

Before and after retiring she enjoyed many hobbies such as cooking, arts and crafts, tending to her garden, yard work of all kinds, but most of all she was an avid game player of all sorts. In fact, one of the first interactions with her husband came on the baseball diamond where she was offered “something to chew” by Travis. Unfortunately, just before she could accept what she thought was his offer of bubble gum, the batter on her team hit the ball and she was forced to advance the bases thereby leaving the chewing tobacco behind. To commemorate that memorable moment, on every wedding anniversary she received a box of Juicy Fruit chewing gum to always ensure she had “something to chew.” While she enjoyed all types of card and board games, she was a notorious domino player and looked forward to her weekly domino games with a variety of friends and family.

Doris is predeceased by her loving husband Travis Eudell, sons Tommy and Jacky, son-in-law Jerry W Brooks, sisters Martha Mihlgerger, Albena Proctor and brother LJ Russell. She is survived by her daughter Sherlyn Brooks of Burnet, granddaughter Jackie Sealey Alvarez of Austin, grandsons Terry Sealey of Houston and Clark Brooks of Burnet, 4 great grandchildren, Jaden Alvarez, Priya Alvarez, Julian Alvarez and Emma Sealey, daughter-in law Donna Sealey of Chattanooga, TN, grandson-in law Robert Alvarez of Austin, sister Peggy Rebecca “Becky” Moore (Roland) of Kingsland, sister-in-law Margaret Russell of Texhoma, OK , longtime friends Leona Williams and Debbie Plevan along with many nieces and nephews.

Memorials may be made to First Baptist Church of Burnet PO Box 310 Burnet, TX 78611 or New Century Hospice of Marble Falls, TX 1800 Mormon Mill Rd Bldg. 1, Suite A4 Marble Falls, TX 78654 in lieu of Flowers.

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Faye Marie Funke, 90, passed away on October 11, 2019 in Burnet, Texas.

A graveside service is planned for Friday, October 18, 2019 at 11:00 a.m. at Liberty Hill Cemetery to be officiated by Dylan Thompson. The family will receive friends from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m., Thursday, October 17 at Jenkins Funeral Home, formerly Edgar Funeral Home, Burnet, Texas.

Honorary Pallbearers will be Jarret Scott, Ty Scott, Galen Davidson and Taylor Mullins.

Faye was born on February 25, 2019 to Luther and Helena Jacoby in York, PA. She married Earle Funke and together they raised five children. She was a long time resident of Burnet, a member of Hill Country Fellowship Church. She loved dong crossword puzzles, crochet and crafts.

She is preceded in death by her husband, Earle Funke; sons, Skip Funke and Larry Funke; grandson, Gary Funke; and sister, Arlene Williams.

Faye is survived by her children, Donna Samford and husband Robert, Susan Mueller and husband, Kenneth, and Randy Funke and wife, Susan; grandchildren, Danny Funke, Melissa Staie, Larry Funke Jr., Vicki Davidson, Jarret Scott, and Ty Scott as well as six great- grandchildren. She is also survived by her sister, Doris Govolovich, brother, Ronald (Butch) Jacoby and brother, Jim Jacoby.

Arrangements under the care of Jenkins Funeral Home, Burnet, Texas.

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Lyn Jackson Watson passed away on December 11, 2019 at the age of 71 in Georgetown, Texas after a near decade long battle with Alzheimer’s.

Born in Winnsboro, Louisiana on March 30, 1948, Lyn grew up in Lake Charles, Louisiana and attended Lake Charles High School where she met her husband Frank. After graduating in 1966, Lyn studied at McNeese State University then transferred to Louisiana Tech University where she graduated with a degree in elementary education. After teaching 3rd grade for two years in Lake Charles, she and Frank moved to Houston, Texas in 1972, and eventually settled in Liberty Hill, Texas in 1982. While raising her children, Lyn also had a successful career as a legal/medical insurance adjuster and volunteered her time by serving on the board of trustees for Liberty Hill Independent School District and the Central Texas Arabian Horse Association. Lyn had a passion for horses. Lyn lived her childhood dream through “Watson Arabians” by raising Arabian horses together with her daughter, and had great success breeding, raising, and competing with their incredibly athletic Arabians. Lyn loved horses, but she loved all animals, too. Through her life, she always had dogs and cats present, but also chickens, cattle, ducks, goats, birds, sheep, and more. Lyn also rescued many animals, including a few baby deer — one of whom spent time inside her house every day relaxing on the dog’s bed. Lyn was led to not just rescue animals, but people, too. Her door was always open to friends, family, or troubled teens who needed a place to stay. Lyn lived her life by giving of herself to others. She was a tough, no-nonsense woman. She didn’t mince words — she was direct, outspoken, straight forward, and tough as nails. She was also a beautiful and brilliant woman, full of life, compassion, and love with a heart and soul of gold. She loved being “Nana” to her grandsons, whom she loved so dearly. She had such an incredible spirit, and will be missed by so many.

Lyn was preceded in death earlier this year by Frank Watson, Jr. who was her very best friend, high school sweetheart, and her husband of 51 years. Her death was also preceded by her parents: C.M. Jack Jackson and Bette Ward Jackson.

She is survived by her son Todd Kendrick Watson, his wife Stephanie, and their three sons: Nathan, Jacob, and Gabriel of Liberty Hill, Texas, daughter Lecia Watson Egli and husband Dale of Liberty Hill, Texas, and one brother, Chuck Jackson, from Lake Charles, Louisiana.

A memorial service will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers or gifts please consider donations to the “Frank & Lyn Watson Memorial Scholarship Fund” aimed at supporting college-bound Liberty Hill High School graduates who have been actively engaged in supporting or improving the Liberty Hill community. Contributions can be made online at: http://fundly.com/frank-lyn-watson-memorial-scholarship or in-person or mail at Verabank located at 13601 W. State Highway 29, Liberty Hill, TX 78642.

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Ruth Ann Woolsey, 66, of Liberty Hill passed away Friday, December 6, 2019 at Baylor Scott & White Medical Center in Round Rock.

She was born July 6, 1953, in Yakima, Washington, to William “Bill” and Mary McCoy. The family moved to Houston when Ruth was just 11 Years old.

Ruth married Robert “Steven” Woolsey on April 1, 1971, in Houston. They were married for almost 40 years before he passed away.

She worked in retail management for 20 years, she spent some time working at Mervyn’s as a store manager, then was a floor supervisor at Walmart before resigning to take care of her late husband Steven.

Ruth is preceded in death by her father, Bill, in 1965, her mother, Mary, in 2001, her beloved husband, Steven, in 2010, and her stepfather, Erwin Hilscher, in 2015.

Survivors include her six siblings Billy “Butch” Wayne Long of Portland, Oregon, Alice Marie Lyming of Jerseyville, Illinois, Henry Grant McCoy of Lawrence, Kansas, Kimberly Kay Wren of Jerseyville, Illinois, Sherry Lynn Albright (Eric) of Willis, Texas, and Mary Ellen (Joseph) Hutchens of Eudora, Kansas; her four children Laura “Nikki”, Heather, and Robert “Billy”, of Liberty Hill, and Stephanie Baez of Austin, Texas; nine grandchildren Devlin, Pete, Ayla, Michael, Emerald, Catalina, Antonio, Emily, and Katlynn; four great-grandchildren Kayson (Devlin), Thomas (Ayla), Lukas (Emerald), and Isiah (Catalina), multiple nieces, nephews, great nieces, great nephews, other family, and friends.

The family will greet friends and family from 10:00 AM until 12:00 PM on Friday, December 20, 2019, at Ramsey Funeral Home in Georgetown. She will then be buried alongside her husband in the family cemetery on their property at 115 W. Bear Creek Road in Liberty Hill, Texas at 2:00 PM.

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Billie Wayne Turman McMillan was born in Paris, Texas, on March 19, 1925. She greeted her husband of 70 years in Heaven, December 14, 2019, on Harlan’s birthday.

Billie died peacefully with her children by her side at Cedar Pointe Health and Wellness Center in Cedar Park, Texas. She was 94 years experienced at life!

Although born and raised in Texas, Billie and Harlan would move to Southern California where she raised her two children. Years later, they returned to Texas and lived in Liberty Hill for more than 35 years.

Granny loved to sew and embroider. She was an avid walker. Generous and humble in spirit, Granny’s faith in Jesus Christ guided her life always. Her most cherished gift was her family. Granny never believed in getting depressed and was grateful for all she had until the moment she passed away.

Celebrating Billie’s Heavenly birthday is her son Michael (Esther) McMillan, Bertram, Texas, daughter Linda (Greg) Blue, Holly, Michigan, Grandchildren Mick (Dawn) McMillan, Liberty Hill, Shawnessy (Russell) Frost, Bertram, Logan Blue, Leander, Hannah Blue, Holly, Michigan, brother Ray Dell (Petra) Turman, Amarillo and sister Carol (Bill) Morgan, Eufaula, Alabama. She leaves six great grandchildren, Robert and Anna McMillan, Luke, Abigail and David Frost, Oliver Blue Guerra and many treasured nieces, nephews and friends.

Mother was preceded in death by her husband, Kenneth Harlan McMillan, parents, JW and Elsie Turman, her dear brothers Frank, Buddo and Jerry Turman, and her beloved sisters Gladys, JoNeta, Jimmie, Betty, Vivian, and Janice.

A Memorial Service will be held for Billie at Grace Alive Church, 16030 SH Hwy 29, Liberty Hill, Texas, on January 5, at 10:00 am. A meal will be provided following the service.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Grace Alive Children’s Program or Operation Liberty Hill.

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Scott Alan Schmidt, 52, of Liberty Hill passed away on January 11, 2020.

Scott was born to Doyle and Reta (Meador) Katz on April 5, 1967 in Temple, Texas. He became a life-long, avid outdoorsman, hunter and fisherman from a young age.

During his early years, Scott attended Del Mar College and Temple Junior College and became a Maintenance Tech IV. He was employed by Texas State Preservation Board in Austin.

Angie Kirk came into Scott’s life and they were married on June 24, 2000 in Mountain Park, Oklahoma. They are the proud parents of two wonderful daughters, Leah and Emma.

Scott was preceded in death by his dad, Doyle Schmidt; maternal grandparents, Lem and Hilma Meador; paternal grandparents, Ed and Edna Schmidt.

Those left to cherish Scott’s memory are his wife, Angie Schmidt of Liberty Hill, Texas; daughters, Leah Schmidt Keene and her husband, Brady of Liberty Hill and Emma Schmidt of Liberty Hill; grandchildren: Allison, Kasen, Raylie, and Rycen Keene; mother, Reta Katz of Georgetown; brother, Mike Schmidt of Austin; father and mother-in-law, Spud and Charlotte Kirk; sister-in-law, Carmen McCorkle; nephew, Lawson McCorkle; niece, Kirklyn McCorkle.

Honored Pallbearers will be the following gentlemen: Pete Castilleja, Greg Taylor, Jerry Floyd, Clint Hawes, Terry Young and Dave Brigner. Honorary Pallbearers will be Jesse Truax, Rocky Sowell and Chris Fly.

Memorial donations may be made to the National Wild Turkey Federation – NWTF at www.NWTF.org.

A time of visitation with family and friends will be held from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. on Thursday, January 16th, at Ramsey Funeral Home. The funeral service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Friday, January 17th, 2020, in the Chapel of Ramsey Funeral Home. Scott will be laid to rest at Liberty Hill Cemetery following the funeral service.

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

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Dennis (Denny) Darrell Wilie, age 77, of Liberty Hill passed away Tuesday, January 7, 2020.

Denny was born on April 4, 1942 in Hamilton, Texas. He was the third of eight children born to Walter (Cal) and Lorene Wilie. He lived in Gatesville, Texas until he enlisted in the U.S. Air Force in 1961. He has been a resident of Liberty Hill since 1985.

Denny spent most of his adult life in law enforcement. He was proud to be a Texas Highway Patrolman for a number of years and then a Burnet County Deputy Sheriff. He was the first elected City Marshall after Liberty Hill incorporated in 1999.

He was preceded in death by his parents and three sisters (Robbie, Lenore, and Charlotte). He is survived by his wife, Bonnie Copeland Wilie of Liberty Hill; two daughters, Monica Ross and husband Sean of Montgomery, Pennsylvania and Tracey Wilie of Austin; three stepsons, Don McCown, Bill McCown, and Mike McCown and wife Vicky of Liberty Hill.

He was a special Pop to the following grandchildren: Hayden Ross of Montgomery, Pennsylvania; Shane McCown and Wesley McCown of Liberty Hill; Amanda McCown of Kearney, Nebraska; Ashley Hatton oflvins, Utah; Chelsea Pavliska of Liberty Hill; and Bradley Wheeler of Jarrell. He has two great-grandchildren–Avery and Jonathan.

He leaves behind four brothers: Terry and wife Brenda of Houston; Walter of Schulenberg, Eldon and wife Susan of Cedar Park, and Curtis and wife Melody of Friendswood. Denny also has numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.

A celebration of his life will be held at noon on April 4 at Rockpointe Church on County Road 214 in Liberty Hill.

Donations in his name may be made to the Gary Sinise Foundation. https://www.garysinisefoundation.org/

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