Obituaries

Garrick Keith Newell, born on August 20,1996, in Nacogdoches, to Gary Dean Newell and Karen Amanda Wilson Newell, sadly passed away at the age of 29 on February 7, 2026, in Houston. A lifetime resident of Sabine County, Garrick made his home in Rosevine, where he embraced life as a devoted husband to Candice Newell and a loving father to his daughters, Dallee Newell and Hadley Jones. Garrick had attended Hemphill High School and built a respected career as a general foreman supervisor with PMC, specializing in refinery shutdowns. His dedication to his work was profound, as he lived to work, ensuring the safety and efficiency of his team and projects.

Born in the deep east Texas town of Pineland on February 9, 1938. Parents were William Bradford Eicke, Sr. and Lura Mae Strickland Eicke. Emily was named after her favorite great aunt Augusta (Gussie) Runge. Emily died, January 23, 2026. Emily was preceded in death by four siblings: Margaret Louise Eicke Childs, William Bradford Eicke, Jr. (Bud), Cecil Emil Eicke and Colonel George Douglas Eicke. The family moved to Beaumont where Emily graduated from Beaumont High School. She then attended Lamar College. During her studies at Lamar, Emily met the love of her life, Herman David McClinton, Sr.. Herman was the manager of Pig Junior diner, a local hang out for college students.

Mattie Ruth Goodwin Davis, age 87, of San Augustine, departed this physical life on January 31, 2026, at Colonial Pines Nursing Center in San Augustine. Mrs. Mattie Ruth Goodwin Davis was born June 07, 1938. Mattie leaves to cherish her memory a very special daughter-in-law, Patricia Davis; grandchildren, Reva Davis, Raven Davis and Ronald Davis, Jr. of San Augustine, and Yvenske Rushing of Henderson, ; great-grandchildren Reagan Davis, Maliah Chatman, Raelynn Guidry, Rayla Davis and Malik Chatman of San Augustine, ; a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives, former students and friends.

Barbara June Pruett passed away on February 6, 2026, at the age of 87 in Many, Louisiana. Born on June 24, 1938, in Pike County, Alabama to Levi Preston Helms and Selma Claudie Renfroe Helms, she spent her early life in her birthplace before moving to Richmond, Texas, and later settling in Sabine County with her beloved husband, Chet. They enjoyed 21 years of their lives there, surrounded by the natural beauty and close-knit community. June Pruett had a fulfilling career as a Commercial Bookkeeper, where she was respected for her precision and reliability. Her skills not only kept her professional environment in order but also contributed significantly to the success of her workplace.

Ruby Wood, aged 85, passed away on February 2, 2026, in Nacogdoches. Born on May 1, 1940, in Hemphill, she was the daughter of John Allen O'Banion and Susan Cunningham O'Banion.

William Earl White, 76, of Hemphill, passed away on January 31, 2026 at his residence. Born on March 23, 1949, in Hemphill, to William Curtis White and Freddie Raker Miller White, Earl was a lifelong resident of Sabine County and a cherished member of the community.

Douglas Hamilton, 80, of Lufkin, passed away on January 27, 2026. Born on August 12, 1945, in Hemphill, Douglas was the son of Lenon Hamilton and Tenola Thomas Hamilton. A lifetime resident of Sabine County, he was deeply rooted in his community and will be remembered for his significant contributions both in public service and personal life. Douglas dedicated many years to law enforcement, beginning his career with the Houston Police Department. He was a proud member of the Houston Police Officer Pension System and the Houston Police Refined Officer Association. His career also included roles with the U.S. Marshals, as a Deputy in Jasper, and with the USDA Forestry Service. Notably, Douglas was the first Black Bailiff in Angelina County. His commitment to service was further exemplified by his military service as a Sergeant in the United States Air Force, where he served with distinction.

William Rickey Clark, known affectionately as Rickey, passed away on January 28, 2026, in Hemphill, at the age of 71. Born on August 19, 1954, in Hemphill, to William Terrell Clark and Rosa Ann Wright Clark, Rickey spent over three decades as a cherished member of the Sabine County community after previously residing in Port Arthur. Rickey dedicated many years of his life to working as a carpenter at Gulf Oil Refinery, where he was well-respected for his skill and work ethic. Outside of his professional life, he was an avid sports fan and enjoyed fishing, activities that brought him great joy and relaxation.

Henry Eugene Reeves, 84, of Hemphill, passed away on January 19, 2026. Born on August 28, 1941, in Houston, he was a beloved figure in his community and a devoted family man.

Clarence Melvin Matlock, known affectionately as Butch, passed away on January 19, 2026, in Hemphill, at the age of 77. Born on March 13, 1948, in Gueydan, Louisiana to Howard Melvin 'Pete' Matlock and Effie Jean Breaux Matlock, Butch was a cherished member of his community.