Walters Funeral Home, Madisonville Funeral Home, Buffalo Funeral Home

12/11/2025

Harold Lynn Reed

Harold Lynn Reed, 72, a Madison County native and servant to the community, made his entrance into glory on December 8, 2025. His presence in the world began in Madisonville, Texas on November 6, 1953, as he was born to proud and loving parents, James Elmer Reed Jr. and Martha Pearl (Sparks) Reed.

Harold, affectionately known as “Lynn” to his family and friends, will be fondly remembered as an instrument of God’s righteousness. His faith was observable from a distance as he willingly came alongside others, which often resulted in meaningful lasting relationships. Lynn was saved in 1985, and surrendered his life to the Lord culminating in decades of service in the form of a true living sacrifice. He was a father to the fatherless, and a friend who was closer than a brother. Lynn valued people. He would gladly cast a line with folks on the bank of a fishing hole, sit in a deer blind, talk with people outside the Dwelling Place or the House of Hope, but one thing was for certain, Lynn never sought to leave the conversation early.

Lynn was a passionate outdoorsman. He loved taking kids hunting and fishing. These were important ministry opportunities, so it was rare to catch him without his Bible in hand. He had a love for the Scripture and embraced every moment to share it with others.

Lynn can also be described as a man who navigated his days in simplicity. He was frugal and had the gift of making anything go a long way. His diet consisted mainly of deer sausage and a piece of bread. He had a great sense of humor, made friends easily and was committed to his church and very involved with the House of Hope. His favorite saying, “Thank you Lord Jesus!,” further reiterated his faith and established the clear sentiment of his heart. Eternal life with Christ was his motivation and he desired it for others also.

Lynn was preceded in death by both parents; his brother, James Elmer Reed III; and nephew, James Elmer Reed IV.

Those left to cherish Lynn’s memory are his brother, Randy Reed; uncle, Jerry Reed; and three cousins, Matt Reed, Teri Fitzjerrell and Leanne Reed, as well as numerous other extended family and loving friends.

A funeral service for Lynn, officiated by pastor Brad Brock and pastor Glenn Campbell, will be held in the chapel of the Madisonville Funeral Home on Wednesday, December 17, 2025, at 10 A.M., followed by burial in the Madisonville Cemetery. Visitation will take place at the funeral home on Tuesday evening, December 16, 2025, from 5 P.M to 7 P.M.

The family requests that in lieu of flowers, donations be mailed in Lynn’s name to the House of Hope, 901 West Trinity, Madisonville, Texas 77864.

Final arrangements for Harold Lynn Reed are under the compassionate care and direction of Madisonville Funeral Home, Madisonville, Texas.

View Harold Lynn Reed's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

12/10/2025

Christmas in June may sound out of the ordinary, but not for Kasey Zachmann! Discover how a loving community came together to support a girl with a terminal diagnosis.

12/10/2025

You may not know all the ins and outs of funeral planning, and that’s okay. We do! We will listen to your needs and wishes, discuss all the options, and then help you create a personalized service that honors your loved one’s life and brings healing and comfort to your family. If you have questions, give us a call at 903.536.2551 or go to www.waltersfuneraldirectorsinc.com to get some answers!

12/09/2025

Erich Artur Ehlert

Erich Ehlert, a beloved father, grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully at his home on December 6, 2025, at the age of 90. Born on June 17, 1935, in Behlenhof, Germany, Erich made a remarkable journey that took him to the United States through Ellis Island, where he began his new life full of promise and adventure.

Shortly after his arrival, Erich was drafted into the U.S. Army, where he served his country with pride and had the unique experience of being stationed at the same base as Elvis Presley, a memory he cherished and often shared with a twinkle in his eye. It was in this new world that he met his sweetheart, Carol Pitts, and the two were united in marriage on June 28, 1956. Their love story became a foundation for their family.

Erich dedicated nearly forty years of his life to Merichem as a soda chemical coordinator before retiring to enjoy new adventures. In the late 1990s, he and Carol made their home in the warm community of Centerville, Texas, where they embraced life with open hearts. Erich found joy in attending Our Savior Lutheran Church whenever he could, a testament to his faith and dedication.

A true animal lover, Erich took great pride in caring for his beloved chickens and dogs-his affectionate companions, Elvis, Prissy, and Jude. He was known for his excellent sense of humor, always ready to share a laugh, and for his gentle ways of spoiling his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. His passion for collecting coins and stamps showcased his appreciation for history, while his enjoyment of working with his hands and playing the computer game Diablo revealed his creative spirit.

Erich will be greatly missed by all who were fortunate enough to know him. His legacy will live on through his loving family and friends who will remember him for his kindness, wit, and the countless memories shared over the years.

Preceding Erich in death were his parents; wife, Carol Ehlert; and grandson, Zach Herford. Surviving family members include children, David Ehlert (Holly) and Trish Ehlert; grandchildren, Stephen Ehlert (Fabiola); Andrew Mills (Jessica) and Brittany Phillips (Clint); great-grandchildren, Naomi, Hailey, Jackson, Jacob, Bradley, and Taylor; and sister, Renate "Nonnie" Tannenberger, as well as special neighbors and friends, the Hickman family.

A funeral service will be held in honor of Erich's life 2 P.M., Thursday, December 11, 2025, at Walters Funeral Home, Centerville, Texas with a visitation from 12 P.M. to service time. Pastor Red Etzell will officiate the service. Following the service, Erich will be laid to rest in Pleasant Ridge Cemetery next to his beloved, Carol, surrounded by the love of family who will keep his memory alive in their hearts forever.

Final arrangements are entrusted to Walters Funeral Home, Centerville, Texas -- A Walters Family Funeral Home.

View Erich Artur Ehlert's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

12/08/2025

12/07/2025

On this day, we pause to reflect on the sacrifices made and the resilience shown by so many men and women on December 7, 1941. We will never forget you!

12/05/2025

Have you ever needed to plan a funeral but didn’t know where to start? This article shares some great resources and ideas for planning a personalized and meaningful funeral.

Would you feel more comfortable if you had a guide to planning a funeral? This article full of helpful resources and information can help!

12/04/2025

Robert Edward Howell

Robert Edward "Bobby" Howell, 68, of College Station, Texas, passed away on Friday, November 28, 2025, surrounded by family.

Bobby was born on February 19, 1957, in Orange, Texas, to Mary Howell and Wyatt Howell.

Bobby is survived by his loving wife, Jackie Howell, and his children, Christi Blair and her husband, Casey, and their children, Payton and Dylan; Robert J. Howell and his wife, Amanda, and their children, Tristan, Emmaline, and Hudson; and Scottie Hammock and his children, Jeremy and Lindsey.

He is also survived by his siblings Kevin Howell, Karen Smart, Koby Howell, and Kizzie Waggoner, and was preceded in death by his sister, Kim Townsend.

Bobby was a mentor in every sense of the word. A master of his trade, he taught every man in the family how to hunt and fish, passing down the skills, traditions, and quiet confidence that shaped generations. His love for life came from the relationships he built - steady, loyal, and full of heart.

He was a quiet Christian and a quiet mentor, guiding others not with loud direction, but with example, patience, and humility. He never pushed his opinions on anyone; he simply lived his values in a way that made others want to follow.

Above all, Bobby adored his grandchildren. He encouraged them to chase their dreams, go to college, and keep going even when the path felt difficult. His pride in them was immeasurable, and his influence will carry forward in the lives they lead.

Services will be held on Friday, December 12, 2025, at St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Church, 2541 Earl Rudder Freeway, College Station, Texas 77845. A Funeral Mass to honor Bobby's life will begin at 11 A.M., followed by a reception with light refreshments in the parish hall until 2 P.M.

Final arrangements are entrusted to Walters Funeral Home, Centerville, Texas -- A Walters Family Funeral Home.

View Robert Edward Howell's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

12/04/2025

Kenneth Rex Smith Jr.

In loving memory of Kenneth Rex Smith, Jr, "Kenny," beloved husband, brother, uncle, and friend to many.

Kenny passed away unexpectedly on Friday, November 28, 2025, at the age of sixty-seven. We acknowledge and share the gift that Kenny's life brought to us, as well as the pain that his passing brings.

Kenny was born and raised in Texas and truly never wanted to live anywhere else. He spent the majority of his life in Houston, and most of his adult years working for AT&T. He loved to hunt and fish and when he retired, he moved away from the city to Bedias, Texas; where he could do both and remain close to family and friends.

While Kenny did not have any children of his own, he loved spending time with his siblings and all of their children and rarely missed a holiday or birthday celebration.

Kenny was married to the love of his life, Cindy, for over forty years; he recently lost her to cancer.

In addition to the passing of his wife, Kenny was preceded in death by his parents, Kenneth and Erma Smith, and two of his siblings, Carolyn Grayson and Karen Anderson. He leaves behind a sister, Nita Horn; and a brother, Keith Smith; as well as numerous extended family members and friends. A celebration of life to honor Kenny is being planned for a later date.

Arrangements are under the direction of Madisonville Funeral Home, Madisonville, Texas -- A Walters Family Funeral Home.

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12/03/2025

Engle Dell Williams, Sr.

Engle Dell Williams Sr., a cherished father, grandfather, and proud veteran, departed this life on November 26, 2025, in Houston, Texas, at the age of 92. Engle was born on September 20, 1933, in Flo, Leon County, Texas, to Randolph and Neddie Irene (Smith) Williams. He grew up in the serene surroundings of Flo, where he attended Lone Star School before transferring to, and graduating from Buffalo High School. During his youth, Engle exhibited a strong passion for sports, notably playing football, an enthusiasm he carried with him throughout his life.Engle's work ethic began at a young age, having held various jobs since the age of twelve. Upon graduating high school at eighteen, he took on a position at the Ford Motor Company in Dallas, Texas. Engle's sense of duty and patriotism led him to enlist in the United States Army, where he served in active combat during the Korean War as a member of Battle Group B, 35th Engineer Corps from 1955 to 1956, and was stationed in Germany. After his honorable service, Engle transitioned to work for AL Smith, where he learned the valued trade of a machinist. He then moved to Houston Light & Power, from which he had an illustrious career and eventually retired. All the while building houses on the side throughout his career as a machinist.Engle was known not only for his dedicated work ethic but also for his love of nature and family. He took great joy in fishing for crappie and relished the moments spent at Lake Limestone with his beloved grandchildren. Engle was a devoted fan of the Dallas Cowboys and took pride in his garden, employing a unique method to cultivate the best and largest tomatoes.Having built a home in Freestone, Texas, with the help of his brothers, Engle lived there for forty-six years. His contributions to family, work, and country will be remembered with deep gratitude and reverence.Engle was preceded in death by both of his parents; son, Engle Williams Jr.; daughters, Peggy Darlene Burden and Patricia Ann Kehlmeier; granddaughter, Alisa Sanchez; and great-granddaughter, Angel Stephens.Surviving family includes grandchildren, Bobby Hayes (Stephanie), Desira Taghan (John), and Max Kehlmeier; great-grandchildren, Kaylen, Hannah, and Samuel Hayes, Max Kehlmeier II, Raven Glenn, Joann Krushtensky, Alexandria Knight, Xavier Robertson, and Jaxon Sanchez; a great-great-grandchild, as well as a host of extended family and friends.Engle Dale Williams Sr. will be honored with a funeral service at Walters' Buffalo Funeral Home, Buffalo, Texas, on Sunday, December 7, 2025, at 11 AM, preceded by a visitation at 10 AM. He will be laid to rest in Stevens Cemetery following the service.Arrangements are under the direction of Walters' Buffalo Funeral Home, Buffalo, Texas -- A Walters Family Funeral Home.

View Engle Dell Williams, Sr.'s obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

12/03/2025

Verner "Wayne" Phillips

It is with deep sorrow and reverence that we announce the passing of Verner "Wayne" Phillips, who departed this life on November 30, 2025, at the age of 81. Born on October 21, 1944, in Dallas, Texas, Wayne was the cherished son of Verner and Alice (Morrison) Phillips.Wayne's legacy is marked by his unwavering service and dedication. He attended Texas Tech University before enlisting in the United States Army, where he was stationed in San Francisco, California and also proudly represented his country during the Vietnam War. While in San Francisco he served as an M.P. for the Army and also worked in the MasterCharge credit card embossing division as a deputized officer. Following his honorable discharge, Wayne resided in Lubbock, Amarillo, Stillwater, (Oklahoma) and the DFW area of Texas, where he made significant contributions to the construction industry throughout his life.Known for his remarkable self-sufficiency and extraordinary handyman skills. Wayne was a man of ingenuity - there was virtually nothing he could not repair or create with his own hands. He was a longtime active member of the Lions Club and in earlier years contributed special time and efforts to the Lions Eye Banks program recovering eye tissue for vision restoration, research and education. His commitment to the welfare of others was unwavering and an inspiration to others.Wayne took immense pride in his family and enjoyed the precious moments spent with his beloved grandchildren and great-grandchildren. As a faithful member of the First Baptist Church of Buffalo, he served on the kitchen committee and participated in many church activities, including the cherished annual Christmas event, "The Bethlehem Experience." His love extended not only to his family but also to his furry service-dog companion, Liberty Belle, who brought him great joy and comfort especially after the passing of his wife, Melinda. A talented artist, Wayne expressed his creativity and passion through various artistic endeavors.Having been a resident of Buffalo for the past twenty years, Wayne will be remembered for his kindness, generosity, and the lasting mark he left on the lives of those who knew him.Wayne was preceded in death by both of his parents; second wife, Melinda (Simmons) Phillips; son, Walter Phillips; and younger brothers, Paul Phillips and Dwight Phillips.Surviving family members include children, Carolyn Tyler (Douglas) of Sachse and Elise Wines of Pierre, South Dakota; grandchildren, Kristin Clark (Tyler), Kaitlin Tyler, Kolbie Tyler, Korbin Tyler (Shelby), Christopher Phillips, Jonathon Stroud, and Deborah Wines; great-grandchildren, Hudson and Lincoln Clark; brother, Myron "Phil" Phillips of Haslet; sister-in-law, Vicki Phillips of Houston; first wife, Brita Phillips of Pierre, South Dakota; faithful dog, Liberty Belle; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family and many special friends.A funeral service will be held in honor of Wayne Phillips at the First Baptist Church, 600 East Commerce Street, Buffalo, Texas 75831 on Tuesday, December 9, 2025, at 11 A.M. Prior to the service, a visitation will take place at the church beginning at 10 A.M. Pastor of the church, Bro. Alan Grisham, will officiate the service. In celebrating his life, we invite all who knew and loved Wayne to join in remembering a remarkable man whose spirit will continue to inspire those he touched.

In accordance with Wayne's wishes, cremation followed by a private inurnment service will be held at a later date.In lieu of flowers, memorial donations are requested to First Baptist Church, Bethlehem Experience, P.O. Box 309, Buffalo, Texas 75831.Funeral arrangements are entrusted to Walters' Buffalo Funeral Home, Buffalo, Texas -- A Walters Family Funeral Home.

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12/03/2025

If you love a warm, flaky treat, consider trying puff pastry! Check out the article below for four, puff pastry recipes that you can bring to your next holiday gathering.

If you have even the slightest bit of stress over holiday hosting, stock up on puff pastry immediately. With the help of this one ingredient, you can churn out gorgeous, delicious, and impressive appetizers like you went to pastry school.