Walters Funeral Home, Madisonville Funeral Home, Buffalo Funeral Home

03/04/2026

Betty Wingfield West

Betty Wingfield West, 72, was born to Yance and Frances Wingfield (Cundiff) on June 14, 1953, in Palestine, Texas and passed away on March 3, 2026, surrounded by her loved ones after a long battle with kidney disease exceeding every medical prognosis.

She spent her childhood riding and showing all of her beloved horses in Centerville, Texas, a place she always considered home after moving to Madisonville with the love of her life, Carroll West. The two wed on June 18, 1971, and spent fifty-four beautiful years together. When she became a mother to her two sons, she found her true calling. They were her heart, and she poured herself into raising them with fierce love, steady guidance and endless support.

Her home was never just a house; it was a gathering place. The door was always open, especially to her grandchildren, who knew they could walk in and find something sweet in the kitchen waiting for them. She was always cooking, no one ever left hungry and her pies were simply unmatched, made from scratch and always made with love.

Betty delighted in shopping, never missing a reason to buy something “just in case.” She loved flowers and plants and filled her yard with the ones she adored, while happily leaving the job of caring for them to her husband. Crafting brought her peace and joy, and many of her creations became keepsakes to her family and friends, but nothing compared to the light in her eyes when she was with her grandchildren. They were her greatest joy along with her dog, Blackie. When she was with them, her smiles were bigger and she cherished every single moment.

Betty never met a stranger and could strike up a conversation with anyone, anywhere. Visiting, whether in person or over the phone was one of her greatest pleasures. She looked forward to checking in on family and friends, sharing stories, laughter and long conversations that lasted well beyond “goodbye”.

Betty is preceded in death by both of her parents.

She is survived by her loving husband, Carroll West; her two sons, Yance West (Crissy) of Flynn and Lance West of Madisonville; her cherished grandchildren, M’lyn Colgrove (Trent) of Madisonville, Jayci Watson (Corbin) of Bryan, Tanner West of Normangee, Haylee of Centerville, Mallie West of Lubbock, Cason of Flynn, and Yance West II of Flynn; great-grandchildren, Kash and Braelyn of Madisonville; her faithful dog, Blackie; caregiver and friend, Becky Perez; her best friend, Tammy Douget; along with numerous other family members and friends who will forever treasure her memory.

A funeral service officiated by pastors Dennis Ivey and Joel Douget will be held in the chapel of the Madisonville Funeral Home on Friday, March 6, 2026, at 12 P.M. Visitation will take place one hour before the service starting at 11 A.M. Burial will follow in the Midway Cemetery, Midway, Texas.

Final arrangements for Betty Wingfield West are under the compassionate care and direction of Madisonville Funeral Home, Madisonville, Texas.

View Betty Wingfield West's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

03/03/2026

Alton Ford Hooper

Alton Ford Hooper was born on August 26, 1934, and passed away on March 1, 2026, at the age of 91 years and 6 months. He was a longtime resident of Madison County for more than eighty years, and was a resident of Hearne, (Robertson County) for the past nine years. He was the son of D.W. and Nannie Ford Hooper of Normangee and grew up around Mecca and Normangee. He would later live in Madisonville during his career years.

In the latter months of 1954, at the invitation of his lifelong friend, Roger Hines, he went on a double date and met Frances Reynolds. These two quickly fell in love and got married in June 1955. Ford and Frances would enjoy a great marriage lasting nearly seventy years before Frances passed on in February of last year. They would raise two children: James David and Lauren Michelle, in Madisonville. They were a lifelong couple with a near inseparable bond, sharing many lasting friendships over the years with so many folks of this area.

Ford and Frances both shared a strong, durable faith in Jesus. They were faithful members of several local Baptist Churches. Upon moving to Hearne, they joined the First Baptist Church, where James serves as Pastor. Ford talked a lot about going to Heaven, especially since Frances passed, and now that longing has been fulfilled. They are both now in our Lord’s presence.

As for his career, Ford loved to drive trucks and operate heavy road machinery. His favorite role was sitting behind the wheel of a road grader or maintainer, a role he enjoyed for some forty years. Chances are high that you’ve driven some of the roads he has helped maintain, especially over in Precinct 3. He also had a side occupation he enjoyed, being a cattleman on his 85-acre place, just south of Normangee. He and Frances built a new home there in the 1980’s and enjoyed life on the ‘Hooper Hill’ for more than thirty years.

Ford was well known among the local folks as a kind-hearted, friendly man. In many ways, he seemed quiet and reserved, but his good friends and family knew him to be quite a lively character. For the most part, he was a man of humble and modest means and conservative disposition, and a friend or neighbor who was easy to respect and to love, due in part to his concern for being helpful to others. A great source of pride was his family. Among his favorite titles was Dad, Papa, Brother & Uncle.

Ford was preceded in death by wife, Frances; his parents; his brother Kal Hooper; and sister, Eula Mae Marino.

Those surviving Ford are son, James Hooper (Judy); daughter, Lauren Martin; and grandkids, Ben Hooper (Amber), Whitney Hooper and Jared Martin (Mysti). As for great-grandchildren, he had two: Emersyn and Aiden Hooper. Other family surviving him are sister, Mary Jo Patterson (James David); sister-in-law, Linda Hooper; and numerous nephews & nieces, and several other relatives.

Ford lived his ninety-one years to the max! He had his struggles along the way but was in great health until the past few months. As the oldest member of his family, this patriarch was a highly respected and truly beloved man, who will be truly missed by his family and many others. Oh, not a perfect man by any means. He had plenty of faults, yet a man saved by God’s Grace, and now residing in Heaven.

A funeral service, officiated by pastor Charles Higgs, and Ford’s son and pastor, James Hooper will be held in the chapel of the Madisonville Funeral Home on Saturday, March 7, 2026, at 11 A.M. Visitation will take place one hour before the service starting at 10 A.M. Following the service, Ford will be laid to rest alongside his wife in the Ten Mile Cemetery.

The family wishes to extend its appreciation to the staff of Crossroads Nursing & Rehab Center of Hearne, and nurses of Allumine Hospice as well for their wonderful care of Ford. It should also be noted that Judy Hooper has, for the past year, taken excellent care of Ford, helping him with meals, washing, house-cleaning and medical appointments too. Thank you for this heart-felt service!

We couldn’t have asked God for a better Dad. He was among the best! He’s been the solid leader of this band!

Final arrangements for Alton Ford Hooper are under the compassionate care and direction of Madisonville Funeral Home, Madisonville, Texas.

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03/02/2026

Jannis Gail Matthews

Jannis Gail Matthews was born to the late Terry Miles & Kathleen Miles on January 28, 1969, in Houston, Texas. Ever since Jannis was young, she had enjoyed singing, being creative with crafting, and building relationships with new friends, as she never knew a stranger. Based in Houston starting out, she moved through central Texas to be closer to family in Madisonville and then eventually moving to Centerville, which became her forever home.

Jannis was blessed with a large and loving family. She raised two children and then found love, marrying William Darrell Matthews on May 25, 2000, in Centerville, Texas, gaining four bonus children. And next came their daughter joining their two families forever -- The official Yours, Mine and Ours family.

Jannis is best known caring for many others as a care taker, her beautiful voice, her love of baking, especially chocolate chip cookies, her deep love of her family, her faith, and being Hannah’s #1 fan in basketball and now as a Nurse.

Jannis will be dearly missed by all who loved her and our lives will never be the same.

Jannis is survived her children, Hannah Matthews, Christopher Rahman, Stephanie Rahman and Christopher Graham, Cody Matthews and Taylor Matthews, Jerry Matthews and Richard Tregilgas, Erin Matthews and Sarah Wicks, and Rona Santiano and Jonathan McMullen, as well as her grandchildren, Levi Matthews, Eren Matthews, Kallie Black, and Ava Wicks.

She was proceeded in death by her husband William Darrell Matthews, brother Mark Davis, and her parents.

A celebration of Jannis' remarkable life will be held 12 Noon, Friday, March 6, 2026, at Walters Funeral Home, Centerville, Texas. Pastor Rosemary Matthews will officiate the service. A brief visitation will take place prior to the service from 11 A.M. to service time, also at the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to assist with funeral expenses at Cadence Bank, 400 East St. Mary's Street, Centerville, Texas 75833 -- (903) 536-5601. An account has been set up in her children's names.

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

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03/02/2026

03/01/2026

Cheers to the trailblazing women who have transformed history - from fearless suffragists to groundbreaking scientists. Their courage and determination continue to inspire generations to dream big and break barriers.

02/27/2026

Grief support groups bring so much hope and healing to countless people, but how do you know which one to choose? As you consider your options, keep these 9 qualities of a good grief support group in mind!

Would you like to try a grief support group, but you're not sure what to look for? Read more to learn 9 qualities every group should have.

02/26/2026

Judy Marsh Hester

Judy Ann Marsh was born on September 10, 1946, in Teague, Texas. A little known fact is that she was the first baby born by caesarean section at the Teague Hospital. Judy grew up as an only child in Buffalo, Texas. She had very close relationships with many of her first cousins. Judy passed away in College Station, Texas on February 25, 2026, following a brief illness.

On August 10, 1963, she married the love of her life, Lawrence Hester. Judy and Lawrence had two children: Brenda and Steve. Judy owned the Buffalo Flower Basket for many years, perhaps the very setting that fostered her love of talking and visiting. Judy never met a stranger. On a trip to New York one summer, every morning, Judy left the hotel room very early. Her family finally figured out that she was down in the front of the hotel talking to the doorman. Judy also worked at Ernie's Pharmacy and Walters' Buffalo Funeral Home. Wouldn't you know it, she was positioned as a greeter at the funeral home, once again inspiring her "gift of gab."

Judy lost her husband, Lawrence, on February 15, 2019. After Lawrence passed she was on the road all of the time. She loved to go out to eat. Little Mexico in Palestine was her favorite restaurant. She traveled everywhere in three counties. Judy loved beauty shop days and getting her nails done. Change was difficult for Judy--she wore the same nail color for the past eight or so years! Her last days spent in the hospital she enjoyed all the friends and family who came to visit, and talking on her phone. On Tuesday, she had so many visitors and she loved every minute of getting to say her goodbyes. After everyone left on Tuesday she said, "Finally all those Chatty Chatty Bang Bangs left. Now I can rest."

Judy was preceded in death by her parents, Pete and Mary Marsh and her beloved husband, Lawrence.

She is survived by her daughter, Brenda Williams (Randy) and son, Steve Hester, all of Buffalo; three grandchildren, Blake Harriman of The Woodlands, Briana Pate (Ethan) of Centerville and Blaize Theiss (Corey) of Buffalo; and five great-grandchildren, Kambree, Collins, and Cade Theiss and Crew and River Pate. Judy also leaves behind a host of family members and close friends.

A memorial service honoring Judy's life will be held 2 P.M., Sunday, March 1, 2026, at Calvary Christian Center, Oakwood, Texas. A time of visitation will take place Saturday, February 28, 2026, from 6 P.M. to 8 P.M. at Walters' Buffalo Funeral Home, Buffalo, Texas.

Final arrangements are under the direction of Walters' Buffalo Funeral Home, Buffalo, Texas -- A Walters Family Funeral Home.

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02/26/2026

Did you know that it's National Letter to an Elder Day? Kindness travels through the mail, and with a heartfelt note, you can make someone's day. Try it!

02/26/2026

Ronald Burchett

On February 22, 2026, Ronald “Ron” Burchett, loving husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, passed away at the age of 84.

Ron was born in Hillsboro, Ohio, to the late Claude Burchett and Martha Oney Burchett. He was preceded in death by his parents; his sister, Betty Burchett Mills; and his beloved wife of sixty-one years, Yvonne Tolliver Burchett, who we trust was waiting to meet him at Heaven’s gate.

He is survived by his children, Gregory “Michael” Hatfield, Veronica Hatfield Morain (Courtney), and Rodney Brian Burchett (Madonna); his grandchildren, Kierstyn Yvonne Rodriguez (Luis) Elizabeth Shae Burchett, and Kailey Labig Patterson (Chad); and great-grandchildren, Aleigha Rodriguez , Adalynn Rodriguez, and Memphis Patterson.

He is also survived by his siblings, David Roger Burchett, Patricia Burchett Wilson, and Dolores Burchett Criger along with many nieces and nephews who loved him dearly.

Ron was the strongest man we have ever known — resilient, hardworking, and unwavering in his devotion to his family. He carried the weight of responsibility without complaint and made sure his family was always cared for and protected. He was the one you could count on, the steady foundation that held everyone together.

Though he was a man of immense strength, he also had a tender heart. He would sing nursery rhymes to his grandchildren and great grandchildren , filling the room with warmth and comfort. In those moments, you saw the softness behind the strength — a man whose greatest pride and joy was his family.

While our hearts carry the weight of losing him, we find comfort in picturing the reunion that surely took place as Yvonne welcomed him home. We can only imagine her meeting him at Heaven’s gate, their hands reaching for one another once more.

His legacy of strength, sacrifice, love, and faith will live on in every mile traveled, every lesson taught, and every lullaby remembered.

A funeral service for Ronald Burchett will be held on Saturday, February 28, 2026, at 2 P.M., at Walters Funeral Home, located at 610 South Commerce Street, Centerville, Texas 75833.

Flowers may be sent directly to the funeral home. The family kindly asks that floral arrangements be purchased through Arabella’s Floral Design.

Memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital or to the Alzheimer's Association in support of Alzheimer’s research.

Ronald will be laid to rest in Buffalo Cemetery, beside his beloved wife. We find peace in knowing they are reunited at last, able to finally go home together as they meet their Maker.

2 Thessalonians 2:16–17 (ESV)

“Now may our Lord Jesus Christ himself, and God our Father, who loved us and gave us eternal comfort and good hope through grace, comfort your hearts and establish them in every good work and word.”

Pallbearers: Glenn Burchett, Rodney Burchett, Courtney Morain, Chad Patterson, Luis Rodriguez

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

02/24/2026

Glenda Sue Headrick

Glenda Sue Headrick, beloved wife, mother, Nana, and sister, passed away peacefully on February 24, 2026, in Centerville, Texas, surrounded by the love of her family. Born on November 1, 1960, in Houston, Texas, Glenda spent most of her life in Centerville, where her presence deeply touched the hearts of all who knew her.

Glenda's career spanned thirty years at Woody's #1 & #2, where her work ethic and kindness made her a cherished member of her work team. She found joy in her profession but took even greater pride in her family, which was always her true calling. Her heart swelled with love for her children, Paul Headrick (Lori), Elizabeth Dockery, Robert Headrick (Crystal), and Steven Headrick (Natalie). Each of them carries a piece of her spirit, which will forever be woven into the fabric of their lives.

As a grandmother to Tosha, Justin M., Kaleb, Madison, Justin C., Lane, Mason, Chevy, Elizabeth, Emmalynn, Ray'lynn, Damon, Cashlynn, Leslie, Gabe, and Emalee, Glenda was a constant source of laughter and warmth. Her great-grandchildren, Eathan, Nikki, Ray, Brantlee, Kinsley, and Jonathan, brought her immense joy, and she relished every moment spent with them, creating memories that will forever illuminate their lives.

Glenda adored family gatherings, where her laughter echoed joyfully among loved ones. She found tranquility in nature, often fishing on local ponds that were as peaceful as her spirit. These simple pleasures defined her life and showcased her immense love for those around her.

She was baptized at Victory Baptist Church, a testament to her faith and dedication. Glenda’s commitment to her family was best exemplified by her marriage to her husband, Paul Dean Headrick, with whom she celebrated forth-six wonderful years this past January. Their journey together was one of unwavering love and companionship, a partnership that set a beautiful example for their children and grandchildren.

She leaves behind not only her adoring husband, children, and grandchildren but also her sisters, Patricia Barham (Justin), Jesse Gibson (Heath), and Jamie Douglas (Ben), who will sorely miss her kindness and support. Glenda’s legacy will also be cherished by numerous extended family and friends who have had the privilege to know her.

Glenda was preceded in death by her father, Curtis Glen McAdams; mother, Myra McAdams; and her grandson, Benjamin. While their absence is felt deeply, her life serves as a radiant reminder of love, resilience, and joy.

Visitation will be held at Walters Funeral Home in Centerville, Texas, on Friday, February 27, 2026, from 6 P.M. to 8 P.M., followed by a memorial service the next day at 11 A.M. She will be honored and celebrated for the light she brought into this world, and her memory will live on in the hearts of those she loved and who loved her in return.

Final arrangements for Glenda are under the guidance of Walters Funeral Home, Centerville, Texas -- A Walters Family Funeral Home.

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02/24/2026

Carlos Quiuber Lira-Martinez

Carlos Quiuber Lira-Martinez, a beloved son, brother, uncle, friend, passed away unexpectedly on February 22, 2026, in Marquez, Texas. Born on October 27, 2000, in College Station, Texas, Carlos brought joy and positivity to everyone fortunate enough to know him.

For the past three years, Carlos served as a deli worker at Woody's Smokehouse #2, where he garnered respect and admiration from coworkers and customers alike. His laid-back demeanor and warm personality created a sense of fellowship and camaraderie, making him a cherished team member. Carlos was a graduate of Buffalo High School, where he began to lay the foundation for his future and developed his passions.

In his free time, Carlos enjoyed indulging in his love for video games, sharing laughter and good company with his friends. He also found great joy in dancing and playing the guitar, often lighting up the room with his enthusiasm. His deep affection for his niece, Valentina Robles, was especially evident; he held a special place in his heart for her and cherished their moments together.

Carlos was known for his uplifting spirit, exuding optimism and positivity that inspired those around him. He had an extraordinary ability to bring people together, often nurturing strong bonds and meaningful connections. His presence was a gift to his family and community.

He leaves behind his loving mother, Karla Martinez; father, Quiuber Lira; and his sister, Karla Lira-Martinez. His maternal grandparents, Carlos and Marina Martinez; and paternal grandmother, Martha De Los Santos, survive him as do numerous aunts, uncles, and a special cousin, Yudith Perez. He is also survived by a multitude of extended family members and close friends. Carlos was preceded in death by his paternal grandfather, Quiuber Lira.

A visitation will be held on Thursday, February 26, 2026, from 4 P.M. to 6:30 P.M., followed by a memorial service from 7 P.M. to 8 P.M. at Walters' Buffalo Funeral Home, located at 249 Humphreys Road, Buffalo, Texas 75831.

Carlos Quiuber Lira-Martinez will be deeply missed, but his memory and the love he shared will live on in the hearts of those he touched.

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

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02/24/2026

Wilma Ann Fite

Wilma Ann (Gilbert) Fite, beloved mother, devoted wife, and compassionate caretaker, passed away peacefully surrounded by family on February 22, 2026, at the age of 89 in Bryan, Texas. She was born on November 24, 1936, in Leon County, Texas, to Norman Earl and Annie Mae (Spikes) Gilbert. Wilma lived a life rich with love, commitment, and unwavering dedication to her family and community.

Shortly after graduating from Normangee High School, Wilma met the love of her life, James Richard Fite, known affectionately as Madison County Judge Jimmy Fite. Their union, which lasted for fifty-three beautiful years, was a testament to the love and partnership they shared.

Throughout her life, Wilma was a prominent figure in the banking industry, working at several institutions while skillfully managing the demands of raising two children. Her work ethic extended beyond the office, as she was also deeply involved in the family cattle ranch and dairy farm for sixty-five years, showcasing her relentless spirit and dedication to her family's legacy.Wilma's nurturing heart was evident in her lifelong care for her sister, Sue. The love and bond they shared were profound, and Wilma devoted much of her time to ensure Sue's well-being until her passing, a testament to her loving nature.

Wilma was preceded in death by her husband, James Richard Fite "Madison County Judge Jimmy Fite;" parents, Norman Earl and Annie Mae (Spikes) Gilbert; daughter, Vickie Lynne Fite; and sister, Wanda Sue Gilbert. She is survived by her son, Mickey Fite (Jill); grandchildren, Justin Fite (Dena Niosi), Marcus Fite (Sarah), Lauran McAdams (Ryan); great-grandchildren, Chloe, Dakota, and Josey; and nephew and niece, Dave and D'Ann Fite.

A visitation will be held in Wilma's honor on Friday, February 27, 2026, from 1 P.M. to 2 P.M. at the Madisonville Funeral Home, Madisonville, Texas, followed by a funeral service at 2 P.M. at the same location. Larry Grimes will officiate the service. Wilma will be laid to rest next to her beloved, Jimmy, in High Prairie Cemetery following the service.

Pallbearers: Darrel Drake, Kenny Bounds, Andre Wheaton, Chuck Heath, Jason Yeager, David Madole

Honorary Pallbearers: Brad Byers, John Fortune, Bobby Drake, James Seale

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

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