Obituaries

Serenity Marie Rivera, affectionately known as Ren, passed away tragically on March 6, 2026, at the age of 13, following an accident. Born on June 5, 2012, in Jasper, Texas, to Christopher Cody Rivera and Meagan Martin, Ren spent most of her early life in Jasper before relocating to Hemphill. A vibrant and active student at Hemphill Middle School, Ren was involved in various sports, including volleyball and track, and had just been selected as a Jr. High Cheerleader on the day of her accident. Her enthusiasm for life and sports was evident to all who knew her.

Tina Marie Morris Roche, 77, of Lufkin (formerly of Pineland) passed away February 25, 2026, at her residence. She was born July 22, 1948, in Chinhae, South Korea, to parents Jongsun Bae and Yonk Sik Hong.

Phillip LeRoy Verdine, known affectionately as 'Krazy Phil,' passed away on March 3, 2026, at the age of 68 in Hemphill. Born on December 22, 1957, in Beckley, West Virginia, to Rosmah LeRoy Verdine and Phyllis Jean Fout Verdine, Phillip lived a life marked by adventure and a deep commitment to his family and community.

Richard Allen Bean, II, known affectionately as 'Butch,' passed away on February 12, 2026, at the age of 79 in Hemphill. Born on November 19, 1946, in New Orleans, Louisiana, to Richard Allen Bean I and Pearl Marie Bertrand Bean, Butch spent his early years in his birth city before moving to Seattle, Washington, and eventually settling in Sabine County for the last decade of his life. Butch proudly served in the United States Navy during the Vietnam War, demonstrating a steadfast commitment to his country. Following his military service, he embarked on a successful career as a salesman for a flooring company.

Our beloved Mom and Grandma, Audrey Jean Groff, age 96, of Hemphill, went to be with her Lord and Savior on Sunday, February 15, 2026. Her heart beat strong until she took her final breath, a tribute to the powerful love she gave to everyone. Audrey has lived a life of service to her community, her church, and her family. She received her child development degree while raising her five children (and husband) and went on to teach Sunday School at her church. She was also a founder of United Christian Services in Hemphill and devoted endless time helping families and seniors in urgent need.

Ralph Carson Hill, Sr., aged 75, of Bronson, passed away on February 26, 2026. Born on July 4, 1950, in Pineland, to Marvin Carson Hill and Clovis Dowden Hill, Ralph was a member of the Sabine County community throughout his life.

Services for Mrs. Mary Eugenia Hull, 81, of Flint will be held on Saturday, February 28, 2026 at 11:00 a.m. at Stewart Family Funeral Home in Tyler. Bro. Sam Deville and Bro. Park Robinson of Flint Baptist Church will officiate. The family will receive visitors at 10:00 am prior to the service. A family graveside service will be held at Waldrop Cemetery in Panola County near the Fair Play community with Rev. Greg Martin of Mobberly Baptist Church in Longview officiating.

Rickie Allen Lindsey, 64, of Longview, passed away on February 17, 2026 in his home. Rick was born on April 20th,1961 to John “Tommy” Lindsey and Gladys Woods Lindsey.

Daphne Rene' Rash, aged 69, passed away on February 16, 2026, in Kirbyville. Born on October 1, 1956, in Houston, to Harry Polk Rash, Jr. and Norma Grace Fort Rash, Daphne grew up to be a cherished member of her community. She graduated from West Sabine High School and spent many years in Kirbyville since 2007, having previously lived in Belton and Silsbee. Daphne worked diligently as a Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN), dedicating many years to the health and well-being of others. Her passion for helping people was paralleled by her love for crafting, which included sewing, painting, making jewelry, and quilting. She also had a profound love for cooking, often sharing her culinary creations with family and friends.