Obituaries

Dudley Quinton Kelm, 74, of Katy, passed away peaceful-ly on July 11, 2026.

Services will be held at St John Lutheran Church in Ham-ilton at 1 p.m. on July 18, with visitation held from 12 to 1 p.m.

Born on April 2, 1952, to Habert and Winnie Pearl Seipert Kelm in Hamilton.

Dudley lived a life rooted in faith, service, and a genuine love for people. For 35 years, he dedicated his career to coaching at multiple schools, where he inspired countless young athletes both on and off the field. While he loved the competition of track and foot-ball, his greatest passion was helping others become the best versions of themselves. To generations of students, ath-letes, fellow coaches, and friends, Coach Kelm was more than a coach—he was a mentor, encourager, and role model.

Dudley will be remembered for his unwavering faith, his generous heart, his quick wit, and his unforgettable sense of humor. He had a gift for mak-ing people laugh while offering wisdom and encouragement when it was needed most. His love for the Lord guided the way he lived, coached, and cared for others. His faith guided him through life and led him to be an elder at a cou-ple of churches he attended.

He often joked about what he hoped heaven would be like, saying, “I hope when I get to heaven, there’s a track meet during the day and a football game at night.” Another favor-ite was, “When I get to heaven, I’m going to tell Jesus, ‘I know you can walk on water, but can you run the quarter?’” Those words captured the joy, faith, and love of sports that defined so much of his life.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Habert and Winnie Pearl Seipert Kelm.

Survivors include his son, Nate Kelm; his sister, Christy Murphy and husband Robert; his brother, Delbert Kelm and wife Sherry; his nieces, Sarah Johle, Mandy Vannatta, and Maegan Denard; and his neph-ew, Lee Murphy. He is also survived by several great-nieces and nephews and count-less former athletes, students, fellow coaches and friends whose lives were forever changed by his guidance, kindness, and belief in them.

Though his whistle has gone silent and the races have been run, Dudley’s legacy lives on in every life he encouraged, every lesson he taught, and every person he inspired to keep moving forward with faith, de-termination, and compassion.

His family finds comfort in knowing that he has now reached his eternal finish line and is at peace in the presence of his Savior.

James Allen Kruse, 91, went peacefully home with his wife, Hertha, by his side on Thursday, July 9, 2026.

Funeral services were held on July 13, 2026, at Riley Funeral Home. A Committal service was at Bethel Cemetery in Jonesboro.

He was born on January 2, 1935, to Virgil Elmer Kruse and Bessie Mae Dicus Kruse in Simms.

He graduated high school and wanted to enlist with the Navy. His dad said he wouldn’t sign, but James told him he was going to forge his signature so he could enlist. He joined the Navy on January 19, 1954. He married Hertha Estelle Hoffman on June 25, 1960, and made it 66 years. They had two children, a son, J.M. Kruse, and a daughter, Janet Davis.

James worked for Conviar inspecting aircraft, then went to work at Bell Helicopter, where he retired. After retirement, he and Hertha managed mobile home parks until he decided feeding cows and living on the farm was more fun. He loved to go fishing and liked to wet a hook as often as Hertha would let him. James was a happy soul and usually had a big smile on his face.

He is preceded in death by his parents and daughter, Janet Davis.

Survivors include his wife, Hertha; son, J.M. Kruse and wife Lola, and J.M.’s step-daughters, Tresa Parker and husband Mario, and Whitney Johnson and husband Cody; and one grandson, Shane Gregory. He also leaves behind several great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews. There is a special neighbor, Mark Gasparini, who will miss him dearly.

Joseph Allen Booth, lovingly known as “Pappy,” “Happy,” “Joe Cool,” and “JoJo” passed away on July 3, 2026, in Brownwood, at the age of 60.

Joseph was born on February 21, 1966, in Little Rock, Arkansas, to Betty Snell and James Booth. He was raised in Fort Worth, Texas, spent many years in Gustine, and ultimately called Hamilton his home.

Joseph had a passion for cooking and found great joy in preparing meals for those he loved. He was a devoted Dallas Cowboys fan and rarely missed an opportunity to cheer on his favorite team. His faithful dog, Dallas, held a special place in his heart and was a constant companion. He was also known for his love of Snoopy, a character that reflected his lighthearted spirit and became one of his signatures. One of the most meaningful moments of Joseph’s life was his recent baptism, a testament to his faith that brought him peace and hope.

Whether you knew him as Pappy, Happy, Joe Cool, or simply as a dear friend, Joseph was known for his warm heart, easygoing nature, and ability to make others smile. He treasured time with his family and friends and leaves behind countless memories filled with laughter, love, good food, and unwavering friendship.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the compassionate staff at Pecan Bayou Nursing Home in Brownwood for the exceptional support, kindness, and care they provided during Joseph’s final days. Your comfort and compassion will never be forgotten.

He is lovingly remembered by his children, Michael Booth and Emily Booth, Meigan Booth and Shane Weddle, Riley Patterson, and Rachel Patterson; his cherished granddaughters, Mariah Booth and Ellie Holmes; his brother, Danny Booth and sister-in-law, Nicky Booth; his sister, Mary Henry; along with many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and countless friends who were blessed to know him.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Betty Snell and James Booth.

Joseph’s legacy lives on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him. Though he will be deeply missed, his family finds comfort in the memories they shared and in the faith that one day they will see him again.

James Lyle Kenton (Jim), age 84, died peacefully at home with his family on Tuesday, June 30, 2026.

Funeral service will be held on Friday, July 10, at Riley Funeral Home in Hamilton, at 11 a.m., with viewing at 10 a.m. Burial will follow in the IOOF Cemetery. Keith Maloney of Argyle will officiate.

Jim was born on July 6, 1941, in Houston, to parents Phil and Phylis Kenton. Jim’s dad, Phil, was in the Navy in the early years of Jim’s life. When Jim was about 5 or 6, they moved to San Antonio, where he grew up. He attended Robert E Lee High School in San Antonio and then attended Tarleton State. It was at Tarleton that Sheron Self caught his eye and they started dating. On June 14, 1963, he married Sheron Self and 3 days later they moved to San Antonio, where Jim worked a few years for a cabinetry company and then moved to EcoLab as a salesman. He was promoted several times through the years and ended his 30+ year career as a National Sales Director. Through the years, Jim and Sheron moved the family from San Antonio to Memphis, Tennessee; Richardson; Placentia, California; and Plano, before finally retiring to Hamilton.

As a child, Jim would go spend a few weeks during the summer with his aunt and uncle, Vern and Peggy Perryman, on two different ranches in Coryell County. It was during these summers that Jim developed a love for ranching, working cattle, horses, and land management. In the mid-90’s, Jim and Sheron purchased land in Hamilton County from Sheron’s uncle, and they started building a retirement dream of living on the ranch and getting to do the things his uncle taught him many years earlier. Jim was actively involved with the Wildlife Association and the Cross Timbers Prescribed Burn Association for many years, even serving as president of the CTP Burn Association.

Jim and Sheron were happily married for nearly 58 years.

Jim’s love for his family was apparent to all who knew him. He was so proud of each of his kids, grandkids, and his great-grandchildren. It was evident by the way Jim lived that his relationships with colleagues, friends, and family were of the utmost importance. You didn’t have to be in conversation with him for very long before hearing a story or memory of a co-worker, one of his children or grandchildren. You might even see a picture or two, especially of the great-grandkids. He truly loved people!

He is preceded in death by his wife, Sheron, and his parents, Phil and Phylis Kenton, and brother Gene.

Jim is survived by his and Sheron’s three children: Kelly and Jose Chacon, Kelene and Mike Curry, and Phil Kenton; eight grandchildren: McKenzie and Connor Newman, Brody Curry, Caitlin Kenton, Elisa and Jake King, Caleb Chacon, Regan Kenton, Isabella Kenton, and Carly Jo Wright; and two great-grandchildren, Nora and Hayes Newman.

Also survived by his brother-in-law, Bob and Donna Self and brother-inlaw, David Self and Linda Miller; and nieces, nephews and many cousins.

The family would like to thank all family and friends for their love and support for our dad. In memory of Dad, please skip your Sunday best and come dressed in your jeans and boots. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to one of his favorite charities: Focus on the Family, St Jude, Wounded Warrior, or Tunnels for Towers.

Joseph Verne West Oglesby, born in Waco on April 10, 1964, passed away July 1, 2026, in Waco. Joseph, also known as “Crazy Uncle Joe,” loved helping everyone, even if that meant he went without. Joe also loved being the center of attention and making everlasting memories. Joe was a rough, tough outlaw and will be missed by all. He loved doing everything the Joe Oglesby way, the cowboy way.

Joe is preceded in death by his mother, Susie Perryman; granddaughter, Harper Faye Capella; and siblings, Gae Tucker and Jimmy Oglesby.

Surviving Joe are his wife, Syta Oglesby; children, Stephen Oglesby and wife Lexi, Joesi Capella and husband Ethan, Jesse Oglesby and wife Savanna and Joedi Oglesby. Also surviving Joe are nephews, Jace Oglesby and wife Carissa, Chance Oglesby, Lariat Gartman, Houston Tucker and wife Keelah; nieces Julie Black and husband EJ, Jenna Oglesby, Janna Whitehead and husband Dylan, Kameron Mantell and husband Travis, Katherine Staton and husband Cade, Lane Gartman and Brooke Tucker; and numerous grandchildren.

Graveside Services were held Monday, July 6, 2026, at the Black Family Cemetery.

Diana Sue Schronk, 76, of Hamilton, passed away June 28, 2026.

Services will be held on Friday, July 1 at Riley Funeral Home in Hamilton, at 2 p.m. with the viewing at 1 p.m.

Sue was born February 8, 1950, to Ocie Dyson Creacy and O.W. “Doc” Creacy.

She lived most of her life in Hamilton and attended Cowboy Church.

Sue is survived by her three daughters, Samantha Gregory, Sabrina Barnett, and Sharla Hoyt; one son, Sammy “Bulldog” Gregory; and by many grandchildren and great-grandchildren, which she adored.

Clifford Russell Dearing, 56, of Hamilton, passed away on June 15, 2026, after a courageous battle with cancer.

Services were held on Saturday, June 20 at Gentry’s Mill Cemetery, Hamilton.

Born on June 12, 1970, to Howard and Bonita Ann Dearing. Cliff was a truly good man. He was known for his kind heart, quick wit, and unwavering loyalty to those he loved. Cliff had a way of making people feel welcome and valued. He was never one to leave “I love you” unsaid. He lived for making people smile and laugh. That is what many will remember about him along with his kindness.

Above all else, Cliff loved his family. He was a devoted brother, son, nephew, cousin, and friend whose presence brought comfort, laughter, and loyalty to those around him. His strength and determination throughout his illness were an inspiration to everyone who knew him.

He was preceded in death by his father Howard Dearing, his niece Kimberly Allen, his uncle Jerry “Buddy” Roberts, and his aunt Karleen Roberts.

He is survived by his mother Bonita Ann Roberts Dearing, twin brother Charles Dearing and his beloved wife Karen of Gatesville, two sisters and their husbands, Crystena and Jimmy Schneider of Leander, and Cheryl and Michael Starich of Georgetown, and many nieces, nephews, and cousins who will cherish his memory forever.

Though our hearts are broken by his passing, we take comfort in the memories he leaves behind and the genuine love he shared with all of us throughout his life. His legacy will live on in the lives he touched, and he will be deeply missed and forever remembered. A man like no other.

Jerry Wayne Hansard, 71, of Hamilton, passed away on June 13, 2026.

A Celebration of Life service will be held on June 20, 2026, at 11a.m. at First Baptist Church of Hamilton. All who knew and loved Jerry are welcome to attend and celebrate his life.

He was born on February 27, 1955, in Grand Prairie, he was the son of Andrew and Irene Hansard.

Jerry graduated from Apostolic High School in Fort Worth in 1973 and went on to have a fulfilling career in the Grocery Industry for over 20 years and several years ending at Hamilton Healthcare System. He will always be remembered for his kindness, humor, generosity, and willingness to help anyone at any time.

Jerry Wayne Hansard was a devoted husband to Susie Hansard and an exceptional father to Andrew and Dedra. His guiding presence and love for his family will be deeply missed.

He was preceded in death by his parents Andrew and Irene, brothers Danny Hansard, Tommy Hansard, sisters Janette Hansard and Patsy Shephard.

He is survived by his wife Susie Hansard, daughter Dedra Hansard, son Andrew and his wife Heather Hansard all of Hamilton. He had three grandchildren, Jaxon Hansard of Stephenville, Ashtyn Hansard of Stephenville, and John Carter Hansard of Hamilton as well as many nieces and nephews.

Martha Helen Drew departed from this world and entered into the loving arms of Jesus on June 4, 2026, at the age of 88, surrounded by her loved ones.

Visitation will be Wednesday, June 10, from 4 to 6 p.m. at Martin’s Funeral Home in Granbury. Funeral services will be Thursday at 10 a.m. at Lakeside Baptist Church in Granbury, followed by a graveside service in Holly Hills Memorial Park.

Born to Inez and Frank Hanes on April 23, 1938, in Gatesville, Martha was gifted in music from an early age. By age 12, she was playing piano for local churches and sharing her talents on the radio. She graduated as valedictorian of Fairy High School in 1956 and received a scholarship to Baylor University to study music.

Martha later worked for Blue Cross Blue Shield, where she was recognized for her professionalism, grace and dedication. At 16, she met the love of her life, Bobby “Bob” Drew. They married in 1959 and shared 67 years of devoted marriage built on love and faith.

An accomplished interior designer, Martha founded Decors by Drew, a successful business that gained recognition throughout the Dallas– Fort Worth area and was featured in magazines. She also received accolades for her redesign of the Wayzata Country Club in Minnesota.

While Martha enjoyed many accomplishments, her greatest joy was her family. She was a loving wife, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother who delighted in supporting her children and grandchildren and welcoming family and friends into her home. Known lovingly as “Mimi,” she created a home filled with warmth, beauty and hospitality.

Above all, Martha was a devoted follower of Jesus Christ and faithfully served the Lord throughout her life. She was actively involved in First Baptist Church of Irving, MacArthur Boulevard Baptist Church in Irving, Minnetonka Baptist Church in Plymouth, Minnesota, First Baptist Church of Arlington and Lakeside Baptist Church in Granbury. She also served through the Christian Women’s Club of Minneapolis. Whether singing in church choirs, teaching Bible studies and Sunday School classes, serving on decorating committees or supporting her husband’s ministries, Martha dedicated her life to serving others and sharing the love of Christ.

Martha is survived by her loving husband, Bob Drew; her children, Cindy Moseley and Greg Drew; her brother, Mike, and Debra Hanes; grandchildren Jeff Sisco Jr., Sarah Vrla, Jaclyn Wilhelm, Julie Watters, Matthew Moseley, Mary Kaliher, Abbey Divine, Zach Drew and Gentry Drew; and 20 great-grandchildren.

Jacob Calvin Lingle Jr., 96, passed away on June 4, 2026.

Graveside services were held at Hurst Ranch Cemetery in Star on June 9, 2026.

He was born to Jacob Calvin Lingle Sr. and Delta Lingle on December 11, 1929.

He spent his childhood years in Odessa, until 1949, when he and my grandfather purchased a ranch just northeast of Star. It was there he met and married Sylvia Faye Kennedy.

They operated a cow-calf operation until the drought that defined the mid 1950’s, at which point they moved back to Odessa and worked several years for the Phillips Petroleum Company. In 1962 they returned to the ranch and began their life in the dairy business which continued for over thirty years, working with cattle which he always loved.

He is preceded in death by his parents, sister Dorothy, wife Faye, and Jensey.

He is survived by sons Robert, and wife Ruth, Curtis, four grandchildren Jeanie and husband Josh, Mary and husband Corbin, Bobbie and husband Mark, Travis and wife Elizabeth, eight grandchildren, Caedon, Carter, Caleb, Ray, Thomas, Ellie, Lyndsey, and a multitude of friends.