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Robert Douglas Bryant I am a Veteran.
April 26, 1938 - May 15, 2016
"To everything there is a Season" Ecclesiastes.3: 1
... A time to be born - On April 26, 1938, Reverend James Berry and Janie Reed Bryant became parents of a happy baby boy. They named him Robert Bryant. Later in life his friends and schoolmates dubbed him "Big Red". Robert was the sixth of seven children. His siblings were Dr. James Berry Bryant Jr., Helen Marie Mason, John Bryant "Kotchie, " Clarence Bryant "Honey Bunch, " Arthur Ray Bryant, and Leslie Howard Bryant. His parents and siblings preceded him in death.
...A time to plant - Robert planted many seeds during his lifetime on earth. He was friendly, cooperative, kind, caring, and communicative with the old and young. He began his religious path at Macedonia Baptist Church under the guidance of his parents. He was involved in Sunday school classes and worship services that he frequently heard and was often reminded that salvation is an individual affair; we know not where death is; so, keep your house in order.
...A time to build up - Robert began and ended his public education at Woodson Elementary School, and Woodson Junior-Senior High School. He was active in band, football, and track and field. Because of his athletic ability, his positive attitude toward vigorous practice sessions, he earned the position of wide receiver on the football team. This earned position in sports did not diminish his love for music. He received recognition and awards for his abilities in sports and music. It was during this time, that his classmates dubbed him "Big Red." This nickname followed him throughout his life. He was known then and remembered now as one of the fearsome players for the mighty Rams of Carter G. Woodson High School. After graduation, he enrolled in Prairie View A&M; University in Prairie View, Texas with an interest in Physical Education.
After leaving Prairie View A&M; University, he enlisted in the United States Army in 1957 as a PVT E-1 and served an Overseas' unit assignment. After his return he transferred to United States Army Regular where he was stationed in Fort Sheridan, Illinois as a PVT (P) E2. He also successfully completed a Code of Conduct Crusades Battalion Military Justice Training. His last duty assignment was Commandant of Cadets 1st Armored Rifle Battalion, 46th Infantry through 1960. It was during this experience that he received a Letter of Appreciation Sharpshooter Badge (Automatic Rifle), Expert Badge (Sub Machine Gun), and Sharpshooter Badge (Rifle). He later transferred to the United States Army Reserved VIII USA Corps. Under honorable conditions, he was issued a DD Form 214 certificate and discharged in 1963. After his Army commitment, he was employed at the Waterfront in Houston, Texas until his return home to Abilene, Texas.
To peak his interest after returning home he spent quality time at the G. V. Daniels Recreational Center with friends and new acquaintances. He loved fishing and quail hunting with his brothers. He thoroughly enjoyed playing cards, dominoes, Bingo, Lotto, and involving himself in activities planned by the center. He also traveled abroad collecting rare stones where he developed an interest in making jewelry for male and females and traveled the country selling his products. It provided a profitable income for his family.
...A time to love - Studying, sharing and following the teaching of Jesus Christ was his first encounter with commitment; then came his military assignment to serve his country with dignity and valor; followed by a time to return home and reestablish a relationship with his immediate family, schoolmates, and friends. After his discharge and return home, he immediately began a search for that social and legal relationship for the purpose of making and raising a family. This too, was another commitment that was very important to him. From this union of commitment came his children. They are Renee Wilcox (Greg) of Arlington, Texas, Michael Grant of Pearland, Texas, Beverly Bryant of Denton, Texas, Debra Burfict, La Donna Owens-Lewis, and Lawanda Smith of Abilene, Texas. He leaves to cherish his memory grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and friends.
...A time to weep - Our eyes are wet with tears; our hearts are burdened; and our faces are stained with sorrow. But God's sustaining power is yet with us. Robert taught us responsibility by example. When and if you make a commitment at your school, church, or community, always honor that commitment. "When and if we did, Daddy would be sitting quietly in the audience; cheering loudly at our volleyball, basketball, or track meets; and/or calling out our names to let us know he was there, " said Renee. "He surely would do that all the time, " echoed Debra.
...And a time to die - God called Robert home on May 15, 2016 at his home. This is a commitment each has to make.
Visitation will be 6:00 to 8:00 PM Thursday, May 26, 2016 at Elmwood Funeral Home, 5750 Hwy 277 South. Graveside service will be 1:00 PM Friday, May 27, 2016 at Texas State Veteran's Cemetery, 7457 West Lake Road.
Evelyn Voight
September 2, 1929 - May 23, 2016
Evelyn Voight, 86, passed away Monday, May 23, 2016. Visitation will be 12:00 to 2:00 p.m. Tuesday, May 31, 2016, at Elmwood Funeral Home, 5750 Hwy 277 South. Funeral service will be 2:00 p.m. Tuesday, May 31, 2016 at Elmwood Funeral Home Chapel. Interment will follow at Elmwood Memorial Park.
Evelyn was born September 2, 1929 in Claire, Michigan to Pearlie and Hattie Blackledge. She was a home maker and worked for a time as a store clerk.
She married Howard Voight, who preceded her in death.
Evelyn is survived by one daughter, Ida Voight, of Abilene, and by David Warren of Abilene.
Shirley Anne Scalf
September 15, 1931 - May 23, 2016
Shirley Anne Evans Scalf, 84, passed away May 23, 2016, in her home. Visitation will be 9:30 to 11:00 AM Thursday, May 26, 2016, at Elmwood Funeral Home, 5750 Hwy 277 South. Funeral service will be 11:00 AM Thursday, May 26, 2016 at Elmwood Funeral Home Chapel. Interment will follow in Elmwood Memorial Park.
Shirley was born September 15th, 1931 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin to Christmas and Mary Evans. Shirley graduated Berlin High School in 1949 and joined the U.S. Air Force. Shirley met Dalton Scalf of Bullard, Texas, and they were married on March 1st, 1953, in Greenville, South Carolina. Shirley has been a member of St. James United Methodist Church since 1971.
Shirley separated from the USAF shortly after marriage. Shirley and Dalton spent the next 25 years traveling to several military bases while raising six children until finally settling in Abilene, Texas in 1969. She worked for AISD as a school cafeteria manager until retiring in 1980. Shirley's passion was sewing; she spent countless hours making church choir robes, clothes, various crafts as well as quilts. Shirley was the founder of the "Sew and S0's", a St. James UMC sewing group that met in her home. The group made and donated quilts and pillows to breast cancer survivors and agencies including Love and Care ministries. If it was made of fabric, Shirley could make it.
Shirley was preceded in death by her husband of 55 years, Dalton Scalf, in 2008, and her only sibling, her sister, Carol Lach of Iowa City, Iowa in 2015.
She is survived by three sons and daughters-in-law, Robin and Kathy Scalf of San Angelo, Brian and Kimberly Scalf of Abilene, and Randy and Tina Scalf of Abilene; her three daughters and sons-in-law, Linda and Doug Keys of Mertzon, Janice and Scott Pledger of North Richland Hills, and Sandy Baldock of Amarillo. Shirley has 18 grandchildren and 15 great grandchildren.
Memorials may be made to St. James United Methodist Church at 3100 Barrow, Abilene, TX 79605.
Billy Darwin Kilpatrick
October 7, 1954 - May 28, 2016
Billy Darwin Kilpatrick, 61, of Abilene, Texas went to be with his Lord and Savior, Saturday, May 28, 2016 from injuries sustained in a vehicle accident.
Billy was born October 7, 1954 to Bill and Dorothy Kilpatrick. He married the love of his life, Gaila Kilpatrick on October 12, 1984. He graduated from Cooper High School in the class of 1973 and enrolled at Hardin Simmons University where he earned a degree in geology. Billy spent his career as an independent geologist and oil operator. He was founder and owner of Kilpatrick Production, Inc. in Abilene.
As an active member of the Second Chance Cowboy Church in Clyde, TX he was involved in the church's chuck wagon ministry.
Billy was a loving husband, father, grandfather and community activist in the Abilene area. Billy treasured nearly 32 years of marriage to Gaila. Above all the things that he enjoyed, family was paramount to Billy. He and his sons built and lifetime of memories through FFA and livestock shows around Texas while raising and showing pigs. He also enjoyed sharing one of his life's passions, team roping, with his family and many friends.
In the Abilene community Billy's impact and philanthropy will surely be missed. The Kilpatrick family founded the Bilbo Golf Tournament in 1982, whose proceeds went to help the Ben Richey Boys Ranch and New Horizons. Billy chaired the Bilbo and was active every year keeping the books and playing in the tournament. Billy started the Gilbert Cook Memorial Scholarship Team Roping. Through the Community Foundation of Abilene, this event helped establish an endowment for youth scholarships throughout the Big Country. Billy also started the BBQ lunch for buyers at the Taylor County Livestock Show to raise additional money for kids whose livestock made the sale. He also sponsored buckles for show champions.
Billy is survived by his wife, Gaila; three sons, Bo Kilpatrick and wife Katie of San Antonio, Tanner Kilpatrick of Bryan, and Chance Kilpatrick of Abilene; his mother Dorothy Kilpatrick of Abilene; his brother Benny Kilpatrick and wife Deborah of Abilene and his sister Becky Adams and husband Kenneth also of Abilene. He is also survived by his three grandchildren, Cameron, Rhys, and Beckett Kilpatrick of San Antonio as well as numerous nieces, nephews, great-nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his father, Bill Kilpatrick.
Visitation will be Friday, June 3rd from 6:00-8:00 PM at Elmwood Funeral Home, 5750 Hwy 277 South. Services will be held at First Baptist Church in Abilene, 1333 N 3rd St., at 10:00 AM, Saturday, June 4. Services will by officiated by Terry Simmons, Pastor of Second Chance Cowboy Church. Burial will follow at Elmwood Memorial Park.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Second Chance Cowboy Church, attn.: Ashley England, 9446 State Hwy 36, Clyde, TX 79510.
Lillian Juanita Shirley
February 18, 1928 - May 29, 2016
Lillian Juanita (Nita) Shirley, 88, beloved Wife and Mother, was called to her eternal resting place on May 29, 2016. She entered this world on February 18, 1928 in Wichita Falls, TX, born to G. C. and Otto May Ellis.
She is survived by son, Mike Schanbacher and wife Connie of Arlington Texas, and son, Jim Schanbacher and wife Laura also of Arlington; Grandkids, Kathryn Cobb, Maresa Rojas, Jennifer Colclazier and Lindsey Diaz; 13 Great Grandkids and 3 Great Great Grandkids.
She was preceded in death by husbands, Jimmy Schanbacher in 1950 and C.L. (Buddy) Shirley in 2011; brothers, Jack Ellis of Roundup, MT, Bud Ellis of May, TX, Kenneth Ellis of Midland, TX and grandson Bryan Smith.
Larry D. Smith I am a Veteran.
June 29, 1951 - February 27, 2016
Larry D. Smith was born in Snyder, Oklahoma on June 29, 1951 and departed this life on February 27, 2016. Funeral Services will be12:00p.m. Saturday, March 5, 2016 at Baker Heights Church of Christ, 5382 Texas Ave, Abilene, Texas. Burial will be 12:00p.m.Monday, March 7, 2016, at The Texas State Veterans Cemetery, 7457 W. Lake Rd, Abilene, Texas; Visitation will be 6:30 p.m.to 8:30 p.m., Friday, March 4, 2016 at Elmwood Funeral Home, 5750 Hwy 277 South, Abilene, Texas.
Larry attended L. G. Pinkston High School in Dallas, Texas being raised at that time by his older sister, Margie. After graduation, Larry left Margie to follow in his older brother, Alvin's, footsteps by joining the Air Force to become a firefighter. Four years later, he separated from the Air Force. His passion for firefighting and his leadership skills made it a "no brainer" that he would come back to his same job except wearing a different uniform as a civil servant only a few weeks later. He served another 30 years before retiring. It did not take long before he became bored with retirement and landed another job he loved at Hendrick Medical Supply as a part-time warehouse employee. He loved being around people. He worked there until he had to retire permanently in January 2009.
Larry was preceded in death by parents James and Louise Smith; foster parents Albert and Pauline Bush; 3 sisters: Ida Smith, Bobbie Steel, and Alberta Elkins; 4 brothers: Jimmy Smith, Clyde Smith, Ronnie Smith and Thaddeus Smith; mother-in-law Ruby Gaines.
Larry leaves to cherish his memories his loving wife of 22 years, Sheila Smith; 4 children: Shana Merrick, Garland, Texas, Stephonse Cleghorn, Abilene, Texas, Sotonye Smith, Fort Worth, Texas and Ayana Clay, Pascagoula, Mississippi; 4 sisters: Georgianna Steel, Jacksonville, Florida; Lillie Jean Jones, Lawton, Oklahoma; Christine Ross, Springfield, Missouri; Margie Tenison (James), Seagoville, Texas; 1 brother: Alvin Smith (Mattie), Dallas, Texas; 2 foster brothers: Wendell Owens (Lela) and Milton Owens (Shirley) both, Dallas Texas; 1 foster sister: Loretta Woodson, Dallas, Texas, 3 sister-in-laws: N. Ann Estelle (Joe) of Waco, Texas; Lavern Gaines, Hutto, Texas; Valerie Gaines, Jacksonville, Florida; 2 brother-in-laws: Joseph Gaines Jr. of Waco, Texas; and Darrell Gaines (Michele) of Hutto, Texas; 12 grandchildren: a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.
Ronnie Westfall
May 7, 1940 - February 28, 2016
Ronnie Dale Westfall, 75, died Sunday, February 28, 2016. Visitation will be held at Elmwood Funeral Home at 10:00 am- 12:00 pm, Thursday, March 3, 2016. Graveside services will follow at Elmwood Funeral Home at 12:00 pm.
Ronnie was born May 7th, 1940 in Hobbs, New Mexico and moved to Texas at an early age. He graduated from Abilene High School, where he met and married Beverly Westfall. They shared 50 glorious years together. She preceded him in death in 2010. Ronnie spent his early years working for L.B. Price Company and later Household Sales. In his later years he was a self-employed Real Estate broker.
Ronnie had always instilled a strong work ethic to his children and grandchildren. He lived by the motto, "Plan your work, and then work your plan." In his earlier years he was an avid fisherman and loved the outdoors. His wisdom and guidance will surely be missed.
Ronnie was preceded in death by his wife, Beverly Westfall and his parents Amos and Thelma Westfall.
He is survived by his daughter, Ronda Westfall of Abilene; son, Keith and Deborah Westfall of Abilene; son, Brian and Patti Westfall of Weatherford; grandchildren, Alana and Nathan Westfall, Emily and Elizabeth Westfall, Carlee and Claire Westfall and one great grandson, Brantlee Westfall.
