Obituaries

Melva D. Smith, 73, passed away on May 2, 2026, in Milam. Born on December 15, 1952, in Roseville, California to T. C. Nix and Maudie Hess, Melva spent her early years in Eureka, California before moving to Milam 18 years ago. Melva dedicated her professional life to her role as a housekeeper.

Paul Edwin 'Eddie' Toole passed away on April 29, 2026, in Lufkin, at the age of 90. Born in Sabine County, on October 6, 1935, to Paul Edwin Toole, Sr. and Inez Cook Toole, Eddie was a lifelong resident of Hemphill and an esteemed member of the local community. He was a proud graduate of Hemphill High School and furthered his education by earning a master's degree. Eddie dedicated many years to teaching biology at Hemphill ISD before his retirement.

Larry Dean Bevans, aged 75, passed away on April 22, 2026, in Milam. Born on January 23, 1951, in Parsons, Kansas, to John Bevans and Eva Lee Tiffee, Larry lived a life marked by dedication to his family, love for outdoor activities, and a notable military and professional career. Larry served in the United States Army during the Vietnam War, where his commitment to his fellow soldiers and to his country was evident. After his military service, he built a career as an oilfield dispatcher, a role he held for many years, showcasing his resilience and work ethic.

Penny Carolyn Bolyard, aged 86, passed away on April 25, 2026, in Hemphill. Born on February 1, 1940, in Port Arthur, to Duward Moss and Pauline Hollis Moss, Penny was a cherished member of her community and a devoted family figure. Penny spent many years as a clerk for Gulf States Utilities, a role that highlighted her dedication and hard work. A longtime resident of Groves, before moving to Sabine County in 1995, she was deeply involved in her community. She was an active member of the Fairdale Baptist Church, where she served as a Sunday school teacher and assisted with Vacation Bible School, reflecting her strong faith and commitment to service.

Jason Phillip Dickerson, of Pineland, passed away on April 22, 2026, at the age of 46 in Hemphill. Born on October 10, 1979, in Jasper, Jason was a cherished member of his community and a lifelong resident of Pineland. A graduate of West Sabine High School, Class of 1998, Jason quickly embraced the trade of welding. His career in construction led him to various locations until he settled at Cypress Bayou Metal Fabrication, where he spent the last decade as the mechanical shop superintendent. Jason was not only dedicated to his profession but also to nurturing young minds, evident from his years coaching baseball and softball for his children.

Maria Rosario Ortiz passed away on April 14, 2026, in Milam, at the age of 86. Born on August 11, 1939, in Uvalde, to Joaquin Pena and Carolina Flores, Maria spent her early years there and had lived in Leesville, Louisiana before moving to Milam a year ago., Maria had worked at Catfish Junct ion, where she was known for her welcoming smile and the ability to make anyone feel at home. Her warmth and friendliness extended beyond her professional life into her personal passions. She was dedicated member of the American Legion Auxiliary Club 387 in New Llano, Louisiana, and a lifetime member of the VFW. She also cherished playing Bingo, a pastime that brought her much joy and companionship.

Melba Elaine Rich, aged 97, passed away on April 16, 2026, in Hemphill. Born on July 28, 1928, in Beaumont, to Ferold Paul Dever and Velma Christine Jetton Dever, Melba spent many years in Beaumont before becoming a cherished member of the Hemphill community. A 1946 graduate of South Park High School, Melba dedicated many years as a bookkeeper for several automobile dealerships, showcasing her meticulous nature and commitment to her profession. Beyond her professional life, she was deeply involved in her community and church. A member of the First Baptist Church in Hemphill, she contributed passionately to Vacation Bible School and the Awana Club. In her later years, she attended Little Flock Baptist Church with her family.

Deborah Lou Aftab, aged 63, passed away on April 13, 2026, in Silsbee. Born on May 12, 1962, in Hemphill, to Charles P. Shaw and Bobbie Lou Fuller Shaw, Deborah spent her earlier years in Orange, before moving to Silsbee. Deborah was a dedicated restaurant manager at IHOP, where she combined her love for people and her passion for service. She was a cherished member of the Pinecrest Baptist Church in Silsbee.

Harold “Dean” Horne Jr., 62, of San Augustine passed away Thursday, April 16, 2026, at Nacogdoches Medical Center following a brief illness. Dean was born February 7, 1964, in Hemphill to Barbara Jean (Kloecker) Horne and Harold Dean Horne, Sr.

John Lee Mathis, age 52, of Shelbyville, departed this physical life on Thursday, April 2, 2026, at UT Health Center in Tyler. Mr. John Lee Mathis was born February 20, 1974. Survived by his children: Desmond Mathis (Raven) of San Augustine, Don’Karvian Dickson of California. Breanna Rodgers (Jerdarius) of San Augustine, Ja’Davian Mathis of San Augustine, Jonavian Mathis of Shelbyville, and Bracilyn Mathis of San Augustine, seven grandchildren, parents: Vickie and Stanley Edwards of San Augustine, sister: Jennifer Pogue of Houston, and brother: Odis Mathis of Diboll. As well as, a host of other nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.