Boxwell Brothers Funeral Directors

Dorothy Fay (Beegle) Baggerly, daughter of Harry and Corean Beegle, was born in Beaver, Oklahoma on April 15th, 1928. She left this earth to join her Savior Jesus Christ after a life of 96 years on August 16, 2024. After graduating from Beaver High School she continued her education at Oklahoma University, majoring in piano and music education. She participated in many campus activities, marched in the OU band and remained a loyal OU fan for her entire life.

Dorothy married her childhood sweetheart, Max, in 1948 and they celebrated 58 years of wonderful marriage before his death in 2007.

In 1955 they moved to Spearman, Texas, where they raised their children; Steve, Karen and Camille. Dorothy continued her love of piano by teaching in schools, participating in many civic clubs, and musical performances. Her life revolved around her family and friends. She was a loving wife, daughter, mother and sister and a special grandmother and great-grandmother. Her generous spirit touched many lives. She encouraged her children to give of their talents and resources and was always very proud of their accomplishments.

Dorothy was a lifelong Presbyterian. She and Max were charter members of First Presbyterian Church in Spearman, Texas. She served her church as organist for 35 years and fulfilled her duties well as elder, President of Presbyterian Women, stints on various committees, and the design of the interior of the new church building.

She and Max were passionate supporters of education and established the Max and Dorothy Baggerly Scholarship Fund through the Amarillo Area Foundation.

After moving to Amarillo in 1994, they became faithful members of St. Luke Presbyterian Church. In 2019 as her health declined, Dorothy moved to Lubbock, Texas, and joined the independent living community at Carillon Windsong.

Dorothy and Max traveled extensively and enjoyed visiting many places and different countries with good friends. Her friends were a very important part of her life and meant so much to her, and she took great pride in her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

Preceding her in death were her husband Max, her parents, and her two brothers, Morris Beegle, and Lloyd Beegle.

She is survived by her children: Steve Baggerly and wife Becky; Karen Baggerly and her partner, Cathy Pope; Camille Williamson and her husband, Marc; as well as four grandchildren Stacy Baggerly Roseberry (Jed), Shana Baggerly Fields (Ronnie), Kristen Williamson Burger (Gary) and Matthew Williamson (Meghan) and six great-grandchildren.

Services will be at 10:30 on August 20, 2024 at St. Luke Presbyterian Church, Amarillo, Texas. Internment will be at 3 PM for the family at the Pioneer Cemetery, Beaver, Oklahoma.

The family would like to especially thank the staff at Carillon and Home Instead, especially Calessa, Virginia, Mary, Malia, and Beverly with whom she had become quite close.

Memorials to honor her life can be given to St. Luke Presbyterian Church in Amarillo, or Hospice of Lubbock, Texas, or the charity of your choice.

IN LOVING MEMORY OF BETH HANCOCK

Ila Beth Hancock, age 84, passed on Thursday evening, August 13, 2024, in Hospice Care in Amarillo, TX surrounded by her niece and nephew.

Beth was born in Tucumcari, New Mexico on July 11, 1940, to Lucille and Henry Hancock and graduated from Tucumcari High School in 1958.

Beth went on to graduate from Eastern New Mexico University with a Masters Degree in Art and English. She taught High School English in Tucumcari for several years before moving to Santa Fe to teach 2 years at the New Mexico School for the Deaf, then taught High School Junior English at Santa Fe High School for over 20 years. She retired from teaching in 1995 and moved back to Tucumcari in 2003.

Beth was known for her artistic expression and ability to make her family and friends laugh. She enjoyed reading, painting, sketching, playing the piano, and she could build just about anything. She spent time making jewelry and all kinds of furniture and loved all of her dogs over the years, especially her last, Duffy.

Beth is preceded in death by her parents Henry and Lucille Hancock, her brother A.W. Hancock, and great-niece Shelby Danielle Clark.

Beth is survived by her sister Marilyne Hancock Caton and husband Charles, her nieces and nephews: Karen Owens, Kathy Caton, Robin Clark, Ken Caton, W.A. Hancock and many grand nieces and nephews.

A burial service will be held in Tucumcari, New Mexico in October 2024.

Penny Mann, 96, of Amarillo, Texas passed away peacefully on Wednesday, August 14, 2024 at The Sycamore at Park Central in Amarillo, Texas.

A viewing is scheduled for Friday August 16, 2024 from 7:00 pm to 8:00 pm at Boxwell Brothers Funeral home in Amarillo. A memorial service will be held at 11:00 am on Saturday, August 17, 2024 at the First Baptist Church in Amarillo with Dr. Howard Batson, Pastor, officiating. Arrangements are by Boxwell Brothers Funeral home.

Penny was born March 27, 1928 in Vernon, Texas to WL and Clara Anderson. She attended Amarillo High School and Amarillo College.

Penny was a devoted wife and mother who was extremely proud of her Family. She met the love-of-her-life, Richard, at First Baptist Church Amarillo and was married in the church chapel on November 25, 1947. Penny enjoyed a wonderful and fulfilled life together with Richard in marriage for over 66 years.

Penny was engaged with several business opportunities including design, developing, and opening a gift shop, working for the Potter County Tax Office and the United State Postal Service.

Penny retired in 1971 and enjoyed numerous travel trips with Richard, as well as, spending time at her second home in Red River, New Mexico which she and Richard owned for almost 40 years and cherished many fond memories of their time together in the mountains. Penny and Richard were active square dancers and helped form a local Amarillo club – Ye Ole Squares. Richard, with Penny by his side, spent many years calling professionally in venues throughout the Panhandle and within the five-state area. Penny spent much of her time in retirement enjoying tole painting and needlepoint.

She is proceeded in death by her parents, her husband Richard, who passed in May 2014, brother, Bill Anderson and sister, Melva Kardos.

Penny is survived by a Daughter, Deannie Hill and her husband Tommy of Amarillo, Texas; a Son, Don Mann and his wife Terry of Plano, Texas; four grandchildren, Jason Hill, Ryan Mann, Justin Hill and Melanie Mann; and two great grandchildren, Carter and Lyla Mann.

The family suggest memorials be to the American Cancer Society or First Baptist Church of Amarillo Mission group.

James Lynn Boxwell, 85, passed away peacefully at home on August 10, 2024, surrounded by his wife and three girls. Services are to be determined.

Jim was born in Amarillo on March 2, 1939, to Mary Josephine and Ivan Duane Boxwell. Jim grew up in Dumas, Texas, where he graduated from Dumas High School. He attended SMU and the University of Minnesota, where he graduated with a degree in Mortuary Science.

While at the University of Minnesota, he met Ginny Leduc Lenmark. They were married in Minneapolis on February 8, 1964. They returned to Amarillo, and he began his career at Boxwell Brothers Funeral Home, where he worked for over 60 years.

As an active member of St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church, Jim served faithfully as an usher, a member of the Vestry and Senior Warden.

Our family would like to express our sincerest gratitude for the incredible love and compassion Jim received from his caregivers at Ruby Slippers and BSA Hospice.

Jim was preceded in death by his parents Jo and Ivan Boxwell and his son-in-law Dr. Scott Sawyer, DDS.

He is survived by his wife, Ginny; his three daughters Becky McIlraith and husband Jay; Barrie Tapp and husband Randy; Katy Terry and husband Mike. He is also survived by his grandchildren, Hannah Tapp Derryberry and husband Trey; Thomas McIlraith, Marnie McIlraith, James Tapp and wife Sydney, Max Sawyer, and Hudson Terry; and three great-granddaughters Avonlea Derryberry, daughter of Trey, Adalynn Rose Derryberry, and Sadie Jo Tapp. Survivors also include his brother Mike Boxwell and wife Vicky; nephews Bart Boxwell and wife Christy; Brad Boxwell and wife Jami; niece Beth Throckmorton and husband Jimmy; and 13 great-nieces and nephews and one great-great-nephew.

Jim would be honored by a gift to St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church, 1601 S. Georgia, 79102; ASPCA, 11901 Coulter 79119; or Gracie’s Project, 7617 Canyon Drive, 79110.

Phyllis Jeanne Switzer, 78, of Frisco, TX passed away peacefully at home on August 8, 2024.

No services are planned at this time. Arrangements are by Boxwell Brothers Funeral Directors.

She was born Phyllis Jeanne Swearengin on December 27,1945 to William R. (Bob) Swearengin and Geneva Mary (Jenny) Shippen. Born and raised in Denver, Colorado, she attended Denver Public Schools including Abraham Lincoln High School where she met her future husband in sixth period study hall. Following public school, she graduated from Central Business College in Denver.

She spent summer weekends fishing and camping with her Mom, Dad, and Brother. She got an early start in the working world by clerking at the Friendly Drug every weekend she wasn’t camping with her family. Phyll married Joe Switzer in February 1967. Joe joined the U. S. Air Force, and they lived and traveled from California to New York to North Carolina.

After the military they moved to Milliken, Colorado while Joe was in graduate school. From there to Johnstown, Colorado where they lived and worked for 14 years. She was hired as the Johnstown Assistant Town Clerk and eventually became Town Clerk. A position she held until 1990. Phyllis and Joe made many friends while in the Johnstown-Milliken area. She enjoyed raising two daughters, watching them grow, cheering them on in their activities throughout the school years. She enjoyed camping with friends and family. She was also a member of Estrellita. Due to a job change, Phyllis and Joe moved to Amarillo in 1994. There she was an accounts payable clerk for Maxor National Pharmacy Corporation until her retirement in 2008.

She is preceded in death by her parents and several cousins.

She is survived by her husband Joe of Frisco, Texas, a brother Paul (Susan) Swearengin of Crossville, Tennessee, daughters Lisa (Dru) Bryant of Coppell, Texas, Amy (Ernie) Collie of Amarillo, Texas and five grandchildren Chris, Sydney, Matt, Montana, and Lauren.

Ella Kaye-Lynn Foley, 47, of Amarillo, TX passed away August 11, 2024.

Memorial service will be at 2:30 PM, Saturday, August 17, 2024, at Boxwell Brothers Ivy Chapel, 2800 Paramount. Arrangements are by Boxwell Brothers Funeral Directors.

Ella was born February 22, 1977, in Amarillo, TX to Bobby and Charlene Vinson. She married Mike Foley on April 25, 2020. Ella was an adamant crocheter and enjoyed making blankets, hats, and socks. She was also a rare left-hander, so she built everything backwards. She loved animals, especially her miniature schnauzers, Maddie and Grace.

She is preceded in death by her bonus daughter, Macey Foley.

Ella is survived by her husband, Mike Foley; parents, Bobby and Charlene Vinson; brother, Lance Vinson and wife Lori; sister, Tao Nguyen and husband Van; bonus daughter, Sarah Foley; nieces and nephews, August, Ashelynn, Bobby, and Blaze; and countless friends.

Walter Lee “Bill” Green, 97, of Amarillo, TX died Saturday, August 10, 2024.

The memorial service will be at 10:00 a.m., Saturday, August 24, 2024, at Bolton St. Baptist Church. Burial was private. Arrangements are by Boxwell Brothers Funeral Directors, 2800 Paramount Blvd.

Bill was born December 13, 1926, in Quinlan, TX to Albert Lee and Stella Green.

He worked for W.M. Cameron Co. for thirty-seven years as a salesman and mowed lawns until he was 95.

In 1952, he married his sweetheart, Monnie L. Wunneburger. They had two children, Albert Lee and Joan Elaine.

Bill loved to hunt, fish and watch football. In 1962, he got saved. He was a faithful member of Bolton St. Baptist Church.

He was preceded in death by his daughter, Joan Doster; his parents; three sisters; and two brothers.

He is survived by his wife, Monnie Green; son, Albert Lee Green and wife Karen; his five grandchildren; and twelve great-grandchildren.

Scott Allen Sticksel, 55, of Amarillo, Texas went home to be with his Savior on August 9th, 2024 after being involved in a tragic car accident.

Scott was born to Hugh and Priscilla (Pan) Sticksel on November 5th, 1968, and spent a majority of his life rooted in Amarillo, where he was known as kind, generous, and occasionally mischievous.

Scott grew up in a close-knit family with his sister Heidi and many cousins and friends who were practically siblings. Summers were spent catching frogs, snakes, and fish at the place where horses, children, and the elderly “run free,” the Palo Duro Club. Scott graduated from Tascosa High School in 1987 before going on to play soccer at Texas Christian University and finished his undergraduate degree at the University of Houston. Scott continued his education and deepened his relationship with the Lord while receiving his Doctorate of Psychology at Fuller Seminary School in 1999.

Early in his career, Scott worked with Shelterwood Center for Troubled Teens, Smalley Relationship Center, Kanakuk Kamps Leadership, and worked with young adults at the A&O House at First Presbyterian Church.

Scott later married and had two wonderful children, Shelby and Hayden, who were the light of his life. He spent his 30’s and 40’s being the “cool dad” according to his children and their friends. Being the “cool dad” included coaching, cheering, and supporting, in an unwavering fashion, all of his children’s sports, education, goals, etc. Scott co-founded Bridge Works, a consulting firm focused on helping people and organizations get from where they are to where they’re going by offering insights, ideas, introductions, and resources, with his mentor Byron Gossett. Through his work, he impacted and touched countless lives nationwide. He went on to briefly run the Amarillo Children’s Home (ACH), an organization close to his heart. Following his time with ACH, he continued his career in Vail, Colorado as a business consultant, working with privately held companies and family offices. From the start until the end of Scott’s career, he continued to support families through marriage and family crisis intensives.

The most important contribution Scott made throughout his life was his gift of sharing the Message of Christ with many, often times for people in seasons of crisis, change, and life-altering events.

Scott was preceded in death by his father, Dr. Hugh A. Sticksel; and his uncles, John Charles (JC) Sticksel, and William (Bill) Sticksel.

He is survived by his mother, Priscilla (Pan) Sticksel; his two children, Shelby Ann Sticksel and her fiancé Douglas Bliss of Fort Worth, Texas, and Hugh Hayden Sticksel of Austin, Texas; his sister Heidi Hawkins and her husband AWR Hawkins; his nieces, Howdy and Hadley Hawkins; Aunt Mary Nell and Uncle Rex Lemert; Aunt Michaele Sticksel; Aunt Susie Sticksel; along with many cousins and friends.

A visitation will be held from 5:00 P.M. - 6:30 P.M., Friday, August 16, 2024, at Boxwell Brothers Funeral Home, 2800 Paramount Blvd., Amarillo, Texas. Services will be at 2:00 P.M., Saturday, August 17, 2024, at First Presbyterian Church, 1100 S. Harrison St., Amarillo, Texas.

Scott’s children would like to thank everyone for their outpouring of love and ask that in lieu of flowers donations be made to the Hugh Sticksel Memorial Scholarship at Tascosa High School. Please make checks payable to Amarillo ISD with Hugh Sticksel Memorial Scholarship in the memo line. Mail checks to AISD Accounting Department, 7200 I-40 W., Amarillo, Texas 79106-2598.

Ida ‘Belle’ Armstrong entered into eternal peace on July 16, 2024.

Born to Ila and George on February 21, 1949, in Dalhart, TX. Graduated from Hartley High School in 1967. She attended Wayland Baptist College and Texas Tech receiving a Bachelor’s degree in American History.

Belle worked in the tech industry with Texas Instruments at the Lubbock location and Intracorp at the Dallas location. She also, taught 2 years as a driving instructor. Her final years of employment were in the banking industry at Amarillo National Bank as a bank auditor. She was also a retired pastor from Metropolitan Community Church in Amarillo.

She had a lifelong love for music including playing the piano, guitar, and singing. Belle was a history buff and enjoyed puzzles. She loved reading mysteries, romance, and history. Dogs were always in her life and house. Known for her German chocolate cake, Belle was an excellent cook/ baker. She was intrigued by new technologies. She stayed up on current events/news, loved Facebook, and sharing her political views.

Preceding her in death: Carol Hildebrand (wife), Ila and George Armstrong (parents), Marie Cornelius (sister), Dennis Floyd (brother), Patricia Floyd (sister), and Dennis Malone(nephew).

Surviving her are: Shirley Perkins (sister), Emmalyne (sister-in-law), Shawna, Stan, Patrick, and Nizhoni Floyd; Jodi Price, Russell Malone, Robin Fluke, Darrin Fluke; Julie Spencer, Daniel Bilbay, Tony Bilbay, Choya Perkins; Aubrey Cole, Alex and Denver Cornelius; Michele (Rath) Martinson, David and Michael Rath; Kathy Price, and Cynthia Bullington. Along with many other grand-nieces and nephews.

It is with profound sadness and deep respect that we announce the passing of George Edd, a devoted servant of God, who left this earthly land for heaven on Sunday, August 11, 2024 at the age of 74.

Born on April 18, 1950 in Fort Worth, TX, George lived a life of unwavering faith and a generous, hard-working, and onery spirit. As a husband, dad, early-riser, and coffee drinker, George dedicated himself to spreading God’s word and service the kingdom with compassion and integrity. His life was a testament to his deep commitment to love, faith, and family.

In addition to his faith, George was known for his playful sense of humor and his ability to bring laughter and smiles to those around him. Whether through a smile after a big moment, greetings to children at church, or comments during a bad time, he had a unique talent for brightening even the most challenging moments.

George was a devoted husband, dad, and Pa, leaving behind his one and only love, Patricia Sue Lambert Cook of Canyon, TX; daughter, Rachael Patterson and husband Heath of Amarillo, TX; granddaughter, Kirklynn Patterson of Austin, TX; grandson, Riley Patterson of Amarillo, TX; son, George “Nathanael” Cook and wife Samantha of Newport, MI and their children, Mason, Madison, and Marlee Cook; sister, Glennda Cook of Taiwan; and countless brothers and sisters in Christ.

His family will treasure the memories, the voice of his love, and the many ways he touched their lives.

He is preceded in death by his parents, George Glenn and Marie Birdwell Cook.

The family will receive friends at Boxwell Brothers Funeral Home, 2800 Paramount Blvd from 6-7:00 PM, Tuesday, August 13, 2024. A memorial service to celebrate George’s life and the joy he brought to others will be held at 11:00 AM, Wednesday, August 14, 2024, at Arden Road Baptist Church. We would love for you to wear blue or bright colors to celebrate George’s life.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests you frequent Bears, Tyler’s BBQ, Chick-fil-A, Buffs, Chicken Express, share coffee from Roasters, or NobiliTea with someone you love. George loved to share food with those he loved.

Though he is no longer with us here on earth, George will be remembered for his faith, love of the Old Testament, joking and encouraging words, and the enduring impact he had on all who knew him. His legacy of faith and humor will continue to uplift and guide us.

Ruth Irene Buchanan, 82, passed away on Wednesday, August 7, 2024 at the Amarillo Center for Skilled Care where she lived for the past 5 ½ years.

She was born in Parnall, TX on April 4, 1942 to Orvel Evin and Pauline Zelma (Hartzog) Luster. Her mother died when she was 2. When she was 4, her daddy married Annie Catherine Conatser who raised her.

Ruth moved with her family from the Turkey-Quitaque area to Wildorado in 1951. She graduated from Vega High School in 1961. She was very artistic, loved to write poetry, sing, work in her yard, watch and feed birds, and grow flowers.

Ruth married Raymond Atkins on May 13, 1962. To this marriage, two children were born, Vivian Irene and Richard Edwin Atkins. After Raymond’s death in 1977, she married Sam Buchanan on November 1, 1980.

She is preceded in death by both husbands; her father, Orvel Evin Luster in 1992; her biological mother, Pauline Luster in 1944; four brothers, Baby Boy Luster in 1939, Evin Jr. Luster in 1940, Jessie Thomas Luster in 1945, and Orvel Ray Luster in 2008; her mother, Catherine Luster in 2012; and her sister, Judy Hicks in 2022.

Ruth is survived by her daughter, Vivian Lopez and husband Jesse of Vega, TX; son, Ricky Atkins and wife Diana of Vega, TX; sisters, LaNita Balko of Wickett, TX and Linda Browning and husband Sam of Miami, TX; sister-in-law, Rojanna Occhi and husband John of Tucson, AZ; brother-in-law, Paul Hicks of McLean, TX; five grandchildren, Annie Lopez, Jessica Lopez, Bridget Lopez, Christopher Atkins, and Patricia Atkins; six great-grandchildren, Nathaniel Rodriguez, Noah Lara, Elijah Martinez, Niah Austin, Ezziah Austin, and Jessica Lopez.

Memorial services will be held in September and interment will be in Palo Duro Cemetery in Wildorado, TX.

The family would like to extend our sincerest thanks to her epilepsy physician, Dr. Sivaram Sudhaker, to the staff at the Amarillo Center for Skilled Care, and Hospice Staff.

L. Wayne Randolph, 82, of Amarillo, died on Saturday, August 10, 2024. Graveside services will be held on Tuesday, August 13, 2024 at the Dumas Cemetery. Military rites will be by American Legion Post #224. A visitation for friends and family will be held at Boxwell Brothers Funeral Home on Monday, August 12, 2024 from 6-7 PM. Arrangements are by Boxwell Brothers Funeral Directors, 2800 Paramount Blvd.

Wayne was born on June 11, 1942 in Levelland. He graduated from Dumas High School in 1960. He attended Amarillo College and earned his bachelor's degree from the University of Houston at Clear Lake. He later earned a master's degree from West Texas State University.

Wayne worked as a policeman in Dumas, Deer Park, and retired from the Amarillo Police Dept. He had worked in special crimes and as a liaison. He enjoyed riding motorcycles in his free time.

He married Gay Nell Gordon on April 28, 1973.

He was preceded in death by his parents, two brothers, Charles Randolph and Donnie Randolph; a sister, Jeannie McClain; and two stepsons, Eddie Scott and Markal Scott.

He is survived by his wife Gay Nell Randolph of Amarillo; a son, Gary Randolph and wife Lynn of McKinney; a daughter, Shannon Evans and husband Randall of Paw Paw, WV.; five grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren.

Tommy Lee McDowell, 80, of Amarillo, Texas, went home to be with his Savior suddenly on August 7, 2024.

Visitation will be from 3-4:00 PM, Sunday, August 11, 2024 at Boxwell Brothers, 2800 Paramount. Funeral service will be at 2:00 PM, Monday, August 12, 2024 at Southwest Church of Christ, 4515 Cornell. Interment will be private. Arrangements are by Boxwell Brother Funeral Directors.

Tommy was born to RV and Marie McDowell on August 29, 1943 and spent the majority of his life in Amarillo where he was known for his generosity, kindness, and ever-present smile.

Tommy grew up in a close-knit family with four brothers who were all ornery but had a brother bond and unbelievable stories of their childhood adventures—especially stories of Tommy. Tommy graduated from Palo Duro High School in 1961.

Tommy later married his high school sweetheart, Emma Lee Litle, and has been married to her for the past 23 years. Though they did not have children, their home was always filled with warmth and laughter, and love for their pets.

A respected realtor for many years, Tommy was a pillar of the Amarillo real estate community, and every realtor in town knew his name. Tommy had a knack for finding the perfect home for clients reflecting his honesty and deep commitment to helping others. Outside of his work, he was an avid and accomplished golfer, a passion that brought him immense joy and many lasting friendships.

In recent years, Tommy found a love for creating music to share the gospel which he was so passionate about. Tommy was a faithful member of Southwest Church of Christ and will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing him. His legacy of kindness, generosity, and joy will continue to inspire those he leaves behind.

Joyce Lee Brown, 92, of Amarillo, Texas passed away on August 8, 2024.

Joyce was born in the home on August 21, 1931, to Granvil and Ruby (Yates) Roberts in the Brown Ranch/Fisk, Texas community. After graduating from Mozelle High School in 1948, she moved to Abilene to attend Draughon’s Business School. She worked as a part-time bookkeeper at a florist while attending college. After finishing college, she worked at a bookkeeping company in Coleman.

She married Dan Brown in 1957. They had three sons and lived in Lubbock, Pampa and Amarillo. During Joyce’s time in Amarillo, she worked at Amarillo Garden Center, over 25 years in Administration at High Plains Baptist Hospital and finished her career with Baptist Community Services. She was a member of Trinity Baptist Church where she was very involved with her boys and their youth group activities.

She was preceded in death by her parents, sister, Candice Ann Roberts, and brother, Doyle Roberts.

Survivors include three sons, Greg Brown of Pampa, Bret Brown and wife Annette of Amarillo, and Randy Brown and wife Diane of College Station. She is also survived by grandchildren, Tristan Brown and wife Whitney of Idabel, Oklahoma, Shea Brown and wife Natalie of Pampa, Jenna Harris and husband James of Arlington, Jase Brown of Bloomfield, New Jersey, Joel Brown of Amarillo, Isaac Brown of College Station, and Jessica Tullos and husband Zach of College Station, and fourteen great-grandchildren. She is also survived by sister-in-law Willeen Roberts of Abilene, and one niece Becky Decker and husband Wendell of Slaton.

One of Joyce’s greatest joys was when her family and friends would gather. In lieu of a memorial service, a reception remembering Joyce will be held at Bret’s house, 4603 Ashville Place, on Saturday, August 10. The family invites you to stop by any time between 10 am and 12 pm. A private family memorial service will be held for the family later that day.

Memorials may be made to Trinity Baptist Church, 1601 I-40, Amarillo, TX 79109.

Barbara (Bobbie) Jean (Ward-Ferguson) Somerville 95 passed peacefully at her home in Amarillo, TX on August 7, 2024, surrounded by her loving family.

No services will be held. Arrangements are by Boxwell Brothers Funeral Directors.

She was born June 24, 1929 in Contra Costa County CA to Eugene Ward (Ferguson) and Nevelyn (Henderson) Ward, along with older brother John Ward and younger sister Helen (Ward) Bonner. The family moved to the Sierra foothill town of Camino CA in her early teens, where they owned and operated the 8 Mile House, a diner/cabin motel/service station/store on the highway to Lake Tahoe during the 1940's. She attended grade-school in Camino and El Dorado High School in Placerville CA, graduating in 1947. She lost her mother to illness one year later. She began her work life and held positions as a phone operator for Pacific Bell, then bookkeeper/receptionist with a local doctor's office.

During this time she met and married Allan William Silva of Placerville in 1949, and had 3 children: Gail Nevelyn (Silva) Garrett (1953), Stanley Spencer Silva (1958) and Wayne Robert Silva (1959). She was a stay-at-home mom during their early years, returning to work as a bookkeeper during the mid-60's. By the late 60's Barbara had dissolved her marriage and met and married Dale Somerville in 1968, and continued living in the Placerville area. By 1971 she and Dale and the two boys relocated to Dale's childhood area near Central Lake MI. Soon she was hired by the Antrim County Sheriff's office as a Dispatcher, the first woman to hold that position. Within a short time she and Dale opened Chain O' Lakes Auto Body in Bellaire and operated it for many years, eventually selling it and retiring in the mid-90's. Many in the area remember her during this time as Grandma or Aunt Daisy- she was active with the elementary school-age group known as Daisy Girl Scouts. After seeing her husband thru his final years in a battle with cancer, upon his passing in 1998 she re-grouped and became active for the next 25 years in local community activities. She held positions with the Grace Community Church of Central Lake, Central Lake Public Library, Bellaire Historical Society, and others.
Barbara was a frequent sight at Meadow Brook Medical Care in Bellaire where she visited and cared for many friends thru the years. Some of her personal interests included both flower and vegetable gardening, doll and quilt making, reading, spending time with her grand and great-grandchildren, and visiting with friends. Her smiling face and easy caring personality will be missed by all. The Family will hold a private ceremony in her memory.

Memorial contributions may be directed to Grace Community Church, 1817 South Main St., Central Lake MI 49622 Ph. 231-544-5131.

Debra Kay “Debbie” Bernson, 64, of Amarillo, TX passed away on August 4, 2024.

Service will be at 2:00 PM, Friday, August 16, 2024, at Boxwell Brothers in Amarillo, Texas.

Debbie was born December 20, 1959, in Pampa, TX to Burdette Olver Brown and Eula Lee (Powell) Brown. Debbie graduated from Caprock High School and from West Texas State University. She taught school for 30 years at San Jan Jacinto elementary school in Amarillo. Debbie was an avid Amarillo hockey team fan and loved to play and watch soccer. She even coached soccer at Tascosa High School for a while. She loved the outdoors including traveling, hiking, mountain biking, camping, gardening, and bird watching. She also loved to play a variety of games with friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Burdette and Eula Brown, and her brothers, Alfred and Claud Brown of Amarillo.

Debbie is survived by her sister, Jewel Lee Downing and brother-in-law Steven Downing of Lubbock.

In lieu of flowers please donate to your favorite charity.

Online condolences may be shared at www.boxwellbrothers.com.