Tommy “Tom” Ray Stroud, age 82, Passed away on November 28, 2024 in Round Rock Texas. Tom was born in Marlin Texas on March 26, 1942.

Tom was very proud of his military service. Serving as a Captain in the USAF. He loved to talk about the various planes he flew as well as some of the battles he participated in during the Vietnam War. He recently was recognized for orchestrating a daring rescue to save another soldier. This is detailed in the book “Pennies from Vietnam,” by Tracy Smith. Tom was honored to be a part of this book and have his story told. He bought several copies and passed them out to his children.

After he retired from the Air Force, he focused on an accounting career that would last for decades. He enjoyed his work immensely, especially helping so many folks navigate taxes and tax season.

His other love was being part of his church community. He felt it his calling to be not just a member, but a participant. Often, he volunteered as treasurer for some of the smaller churches he attended over the years. But his passion was singing in the choir. You would always see him standing in the choir loft singing his heart out. St. Philip’s Methodist Church of Round Rock was his church home for the last 38 years.

Tom loved his family including his three children, their spouses, nine grandchildren and two great grandchildren. He adored all of them and loved to spend time with them whenever he could. You could often find him gathered at one of his children’s homes watching his favorite football teams, the Baylor Bears, and the Dallas Cowboys.

Tom was preceded in death by his mother and father, Annie and Dick Stroud. As well as his granddaughter Amanda Irish. He is survived by his children: Judy Irish, her husband Scott and children Ben, his wife Teresa and daughter Chelsea; and Jackson; His son Jim Stroud, his wife Mendi, their daughter Carson, her husband Russ and daughter Sarah; their sons Connor and Colin; His daughter Nancy Beck, her husband Greg, their daughters Katie, Jordan and Sarah.

His family is saddened at this loss. Tom will be deeply missed. His passion, his humor, his story telling left a mark on us all. His spirit will live on in the memories of those who knew and loved him.

Kathryn Ruth Dodson Baulos died peacefully Friday, December 13, 2024 at age 83. She was born November 21, 1941 in Rosebud, TX the seventh child of Joseph Marion Dodson and Lillie Mae Schlemmer Dodson. A celebration of her life will be Saturday, December 21 with visitation at 11:00 a.m. and service at noon at Grace Gardens Funeral Home. Rev. Buddy Sipe will officiate. At a later date, interment will be at Waco Memorial Park.
Kathy was part of a large, loving family with 8 children. As older siblings became adults, they helped with school clothes and other items for the younger children. She attended East Junior and Waco High where she and her siblings made many friends that frequented the Dodson home. Kathy was number six in her 1959 class. Kathy worked at Bellmead State Bank after graduation and then Baylor University’s Financial Aid department. She took college classes while working at Baylor.

In 1972, she moved to Shreveport, LA to join her sister Jean Buck and nephew Henry (Bucky) Buck. She worked for AMI holding company, then National Heritage Inc. Licensing. She was executive assistant to the president of Care Capital Holding Company most of her career, managing nursing homes in Louisiana. In Shreveport, she met her husband, David Baulos. He had restaurants in the area. Their marriage ended in just 10 years with David’s death. Her companion for many years has been her white Bichon Frise, Jules.

She was a lifelong Baptist. She grew up in Turner Street Baptist a few blocks from their house on Turner. She was active in activities and choir for 30 years at Summer Grove Baptist in Shreveport.

In 2004, Kathy returned home to Waco to be near family. Her sister Jean had moved to Dallas,

She worked for Grace Temple Baptist Church where she and many of the family were members. The last 9 years, she resided in St. Catherine Center where she was active in activities and enjoyed reading, puzzles and the Game Show Network.

She was blessed by her nieces – the Cousin Connection – that made a point to include her in gatherings. Just two weeks before her passing, they celebrated an ornament exchange, games and, importantly, her 83* birthday. They vowed to always travel to Waco for her when she could join in the celebration.

Members of the Cousin Connection are Sheila Bohannan, Joy Luedke, Gay Yglecias, Angie Cole, Lisa Phillips, Kim Good, Patty Nevarez, and Christy Martinez.

Kathy was preceded in death by husband, David Baulos, sisters Betty Dickens and husband Jack, Margie Good and husband George Robert, Jean Buck and companion Marvin Jones, Merle Neumann and husband Leonard; brothers George M. Dodson and Harold Dodson; brother-in-law Earl Pophin, sister-in-law Linda Dodson; nephews Mark Rutledge, Henry Buck, Kyle Dickens, Frank Nevarez.

Surviving is the last sibling Patsy Pophin, and sister-in-law Carolyn Dodson. Both have cared for her in recent years. Also, nieces Cindy Mitchell and husband Dick, Sheila Bohannan and husband Jimmy, Joy Luedke and husband Ron, Gay Yglecias, Angie Cole and husband Lynn, Lisa Phillips and husband Danny, Patty Nevarez, Christy Martinez and husband Rob; nephews Steven Good and wife Kim, Joe Dodson, Jasper Thomason, Derrick Lowry and wife Missy, and David Dodson and wife Emily; countless great and great-great nieces and nephews.

The family would like to extend a special thanks to St Catherine Center staff for their loving care during the last nine years.

Kathryn was one of the top six graduates of the class of 1960: Dennis O’Brien, Stan Lennard, Kathryn Dodson, Hugh Wilfong, Betty Vaughan and Jan Massey. Stan Lennard was #1 and according to the obit Kathryn Dodson was #6. Stan Lennard and Hugh Wilfong are still alive.  

An obituary is not available at this time for Jennie Rose Siders.

Photos from Jennie Rose’s Tribute.

 
 
Harland Eugene Gaiser was born September 22nd, 1942. He died October 13th, 2024, and is survived by his two sisters, Janny and Joan. Harland was also survived by his roommate of over 15 years, K.C.

Gene, as he was known by his friends, served honorably in the United States Army and attended Baylor University, but he was most recently known and loved by the Emmaus Church community in Downtown Denver.

Gene faithfully attended Emmaus Church for close to 10 years. If you’re watching or listening to the any of the sermons at Emmaus church, you get the pleasure of regularly hearing a hearty “Amen!” from Gene. No one could miss him, and his absence in the later months of Gene’s life was felt hole his small church community.

Gene was best known for riding his bike around the Baker neighborhood and spending time at some of his favorite places to eat. If you got a chance to talk to Gene for any length at church, you were regularly invited to Smokn’ Yards or Swift’s. He wasn’t known for sharing a lot of personal details, but he wouldn’t miss an opportunity to share time with his church family over a meal.

In the last decades of his life, Gene read about 5-7 books a week. His trivia was regularly fact checked, mainly because it was so obscure, but his memory rarely missed a beat. He could tell you names, dates, places, and specific address in ways that could only be validated in our Google search era. He read so many books, that disposing, donating, or recycling all his “pocket books” became a complex issue by itself!

Gene’s favorite event was the annual Super Bowl party. He could sit on a comfortable chair, eat all the food he enjoyed, have conversation with his community, and play with the little children who ran around the house. One of the few times Gene didn’t hesitate to ask for help was when he needed a ride to the party. It’s how we knew how important this annual celebration was to him.
When Gene was asked about his biggest regrets, he was disappointed that he didn’t invest early in Microsoft, so he could make larger financial gifts to the church. I think Gene now knows that his prayers over the decades were infinitely more useful for the kingdom than any financial gift he was able to give. Gene also underestimated his regular, consistent financial gifts he gave to his small church family.

I don’t think we’ll truly know Gene’s impact on the Kingdom of God until we are again eating with him in eternity. Gene was great at pulling many young affluent couples out of their comfort zone and closer to the Lord. Gene regularly called others to lay aside their selfishness and serve. Gene was truly an instrument for the glory and majesty of Jesus Christ, both Gene’s Lord and Gene’s Savior.

Amen!!

Click here for more photos of Gene Gaiser at a Reunion

Gwendolyn Carole (Ewing) Hodges gained her wings and passed from this life on Nov. 7, 2024, after a brave battle with cancer. Born in San Diego, California on New Year’s Eve 1941 to parents L.B. and Dorothy Ewing, young Gwen always said she “couldn’t wait to get to Texas” where her parents were originally born and raised. In 1947, the family did return to the Lone Star State, first to Weatherford before heading back home to Speegleville, outside of Waco.

Gwen attended Speegleville Elementary and graduated from Waco High in 1960. She attended the University of Texas at Austin, later landing jobs with Texas Power & Light, and with the City of Austin Buildings Division. Along the way, Gwen met her future husband on a blind date. Always a horsewoman who appreciated all things western, she was impressed when Wayne Hodges appeared on her doorstep dressed in cowboy attire. They married in 1963.

Mr. Hodges’ career with Southwestern Bell took the family to Houston three times, Austin twice, Dallas and St. Louis, Missouri. Son David was born in McAllen, and daughter Diann was born two years later in in Houston.

An attractive lady with a strong personality, Gwen was a talented organizer in a variety of ways and never shy about sharing her opinion. She was instrumental in developing the Metropolitan Baptist Church Preschool in Cypress; helped organize the first Republican Women’s Club in Cy-Fair; and when her daughter was diagnosed with juvenile diabetes, Gwen dedicated herself to the Juvenile Diabetes Foundation, serving as president of that organization from 1982-84.

Having ridden horses since the age of 4, Gwen learned how to be a trick rider, and always had a good horse in her life. She helped organize the Speegleville Saddle Club, an organization that remained active for decades, and belonged to the Texas Equestrian Trail Riders Association. When the Hodges’ retired to Georgetown in 1999, Gwen again gravitated toward politics and became active in the Georgetown Area Republican Women’s Club where she served as president from 2005-06. She also served as precinct chair until her death.

One of Gwen’s longtime friends (they met in McAllen and survived Hurricane Beulah together), described Gwen as a fabulous cook who put every pot and pan in the kitchen to good use. “We both loved clothes, shopping, jewelry, keeping a nice home and gossiping,” said Joan Church.

Gwendolyn Hodges is survived by her husband, Wayne, of Georgetown; daughter Diann Hodges of Taylor; son David Hodges and wife Elizabeth of Missouri City; three grandchildren, Meagan, Connor, and Lauren, brother Patrick Ewing, stepsiblings Dr. Tamara Haygood, Michelle Miner, Greg Miner and numerous cousins and family members. Gwen was preceded in death by her parents.

Visitation will be held on Tuesday, Nov. 12 from 5-7 p.m. at Ramsey Funeral Home, 5600 Williams Drive in Georgetown, with graveside services on Wednesday, Nov. 13 at 1 p.m. at The Aggie Field of Honor and Memorial Cemetery, 3800 Raymond Stotzer Parkway, College Station. A celebration of Gwen’s life will be held at the Berry Creek Country Club on Saturday, Nov. 16 from 3-5 p.m.

Memorial donations may be made to the Tunnel To Towers Foundation, an organization that provides housing for wounded warriors, catastrophically injured veterans and first responders. For information: T2T.org

Ramsey Funeral Home and Crematory is in charge of arrangements.

Click for pictures of Gwen through the years.

Kay Marie Sparks, the widow of Ralph L. Sparks, passed away on November 2nd, in her Waco home.

Born to Violette May and David Kayle Phillips, Kay moved with her parents and two siblings to Waco from Akron, Ohio in 1946 at the age of 3 when her father was transferred to General Tire and Rubber Co.

Kay committed to her Christian faith at an early age, attending Austin Avenue Methodist Church as a youth and being a part of the Methodist Youth Fellowship. She briefly attended both Baylor University and the University of Texas at Austin, pledging Delta Zeta, and studying Business Administration. She left college to care for her father after the passing of her mother.

In 1965, Kay embarked on a distinguished career in the insurance industry, dedicating over 40 years to the field. She advanced steadily, ultimately achieving the position of Claims Manager. Throughout her career, she worked for several companies, including Philadelphia American Life Insurance Company, American Amicable Life Insurance Company, and General American Life Insurance Company. Her professional journey is a testament to her commitment and leadership in the industry.

Her heart for service shone brightly through her unwavering dedication to numerous organizations, where she consistently demonstrated compassion, commitment, and selflessness. As a member of the Beta Sigma Phi sorority (Laureate Gamma Epsilon chapter), she served on various committees and as vice president of the chapter. Kay was recognized as the Sweetheart of the sorority, received the Order of the Rose, and the Silver Circle Award for 25 years of service. She was also an active and passionate member of the McLennan County Republican Women. Following her enthusiasm for bowling, Kay was an active member of the Women’s Majors Bowling League, serving as vice president during her time. As a graduate of Waco High School Class of 1960, Kay attended and helped to organize numerous reunions.

She was an enthusiastic encourager and a faithful supporter of her husband’s musical pursuits, always present at Ralph’s performances, assisting with CD sales, signings, tickets, and more.

Known affectionately as “the cat lady” by those who loved her, Kay’s enduring love for animals was evident, especially in the numerous cats she lovingly took in and cared for over the years.

Kay married at the tender age of 19 and, in 1965, found herself a single mother with two young children, Stephen and Shelly Frierson. Demonstrating unwavering determination and boundless love for her children, Kay bravely moved to Dallas, embarking on a professional career in the insurance industry to provide for her family. Her strength and resilience during these challenging times were a testament to her profound devotion as a mother.
In 1980, she married Ralph Sparks and relocated back to her hometown of Waco. After dating in high school and then losing touch, they reconnected years later, discovering that their true love had been waiting for them all along. After marrying, they blended their families, bringing their combined seven children together and creating a family filled with new bonds and shared experiences. They joined the First Woodway Baptist Church in 1980, finding a faith home and decades of friendship and support.

Kay is survived by her seven children: Stephen Hall Frierson (and spouse Tara) of Ruidoso, NM; Shelly Rustanne Frierson of Waco; Lauri Ann Sparks Luedeker (and spouse William “Buddy”) of Waco; Teri Lynn Sparks McGuill (and spouse David) of Fort Worth; Kevin Christopher Sparks (and spouse Melodi) of Lorena; Jamie Lee Sparks (and spouse Missy) of Robinson; and Timothy Howard Sparks. Together, they have fourteen grandchildren: Jeremy Luedeker, Aaron Luedeker, Brendan Luedeker, Charles McGuill, Madison Sparks, Zoe Sparks, Justin Hall, Casey Hall, Tyler Sparks, Jeremy Archibeque, Luke Archibeque, Jordan Frierson Reynolds, Kayle Frierson, and Hayden Frierson; and eighteen great-grandchildren, with one on the way. She is also survived by her stepsister Diedre Coffell, stepbrother William Oswald and numerous nephews and nieces.

She is preceded in death by her husband Ralph Sparks, her parents David and Violette Phillips, her stepmother Anita Phillips-Huggins, sister Carol Johannsen, her brother David Phillips, and her grandson Brendan Luedeker.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to friends and family who provided love and support to Kay and Ralph through meals, cards, visits, and calls during their time of need.

Visitation for Kay and Ralph will be held on Thursday, November 14th, from 3-7 p.m. at Grace Gardens Funeral Home. Services for Kay and Ralph will take place on Friday, November 15th, at 1 p.m. at First Woodway Baptist Church, followed by interment at 3:30 p.m. at Waco Memorial Park. Pallbearers and honorary pallbearers will include their sons, grandsons, and friends.

Memorial contributions can be made to Fuzzy Friends Rescue, 6321 Airport Road, Waco, TX 76708, or to the charity of your choice in Kay’s memory. Kay Sparks will be dearly missed by all who knew her. Her life was a testament to her heart of service, unwavering commitment to her Christian faith, and love for her family and friends.

Pictures of Kay at Reunions and other gatherings.

Ralph Sparks preceeded Kay in death by less than two weeks. Here is his obit.

Entered into eternal rest peacefully surrounded by his loved ones. Adored and devoted husband of Gia Coone (nee Alessandra); James was the honored father of Shannon (Michael) Coyle and Sheldon (Ashley) Coone; cherished grandfather of Austin Coyle, Bailey Coyle and Braxton Coone; dear brother of the late Billy Coone; beloved brother-in-law of Lesa (Detlef) Whitlow and Thomas Aurelio, Jr. (Amy Benko); dearest uncle and godfather of Samuel Whitlow; predeceased by his loving parents, Linden and Louise Coone; also survived by many nieces, nephews, cousins and dear friends.

James was a kind and generous man. He had a fun-loving spirit and quick wit. He loved his family dearly, good barbecue and everything Texas. He will be missed by all who knew him.

James worked his entire career in construction management, specializing in large scale hotels, banks and retail properties across the country.

The family will be present to receive friends on Tuesday, Nov. 12, 2024 from 2:00 – 7:00 PM at the (Amherst Chapel) AMIGONE FUNERAL HOME, INC., 5200 Sheridan Drive (corner Hopkins Rd.) where prayers will be offered on Wednesday, Nov. 13, 2024 at 9:45 AM followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 10:30 AM in St. Gregory the Great Church, 100 St. Gregory Ct. Interment to follow in Holy Cross Cemetery.

Share condolences online at AMIGONE.com

Some pictures of James at our Reunions.

Doris Jean Dickerson, affectionately known as Jeannie, left this world October 22, 2024, surrounded by loving family, who forever cherish the warmth of her spirit and the depth of her compassion. Born on March 16, 1942, in Waco to the late Lionel Jackson and Othello Emogene Crumpton Dickerson, Jeannie lived a life marked by dedication, resilience, and love.

Jeannie had a distinguished career that spanned over 50 years, working as a Nurse and Nursing Supervisor. Her commitment to patient care earned her numerous accolades, a true testament to her outstanding dedication and passion for those she served. She found profound joy and fulfillment in her work, always making time to listen, comfort, and provide care to her patients. Even beyond her professional life, her loving nature resonated through every interaction she had. Whether it was with her family, friends, or her beloved fur babies, her care for others was evident and unwavering.

Jeannie’s educational pursuits reflected her commitment to excellence and lifelong learning. A proud graduate of Waco High School, she attended Hillcrest School of Nursing, where she began nurturing her calling. She earned her Bachelor’s degree from The University of Texas, followed by two Master’s degrees — one in Nursing Administration from Texas A&M University Corpus Christi, and another in Geriatric Nursing from Baylor University. Each step of her educational journey exemplified her determination to excel and to uplift those around her. She was a longtime member of Columbus Avenue Church of Christ, where she enjoyed sharing in the love of Christ and development many lifelong friendships.

Her family and friends will remember Jeannie not only for her professional achievements but also for the love and light she brought into their lives. She is survived by her brother, Wendell Dickerson, and his wife, Carolyn; her niece, Jennifer Villanueva, and her husband, Louis; her nephews, Dave Lionel Dickerson and his wife, Courtney, and Samuel Wendell Dickerson and his wife, Julie. Jeannie enjoyed a special bond with her great-nieces and nephews: Sam Villanueva, Emma Villanueva, Rowan Jean Dickerson, Annie Dickerson, Hudson Dickerson, Henry Dickerson, Levi Dickerson, and Wyatt Dickerson. Alongside her caring family, her three faithful canine companions remained by her side, mirroring her softness and loyalty. Jeannie is also survived by numerous cousins, along with many friends and colleagues who admired her boundless kindness.

Jeannie was preceded in death by her parents, Lionel Jackson Dickerson and Othello Emogene Crumpton, whose legacies of love and support fostered the nurturing soul we all knew.

Jeannie’s family would like to offer their heartfelt gratitude to Kathy Norton and Nancy Mullens for their compassionate care of Jeannie during her last weeks. Their Christian love was sorely needed and will not be forgotten. In every way, Jeannie, shaped lives and inspired many with her selfless heart. As her family gathers to remember her, they will celebrate the love she shared, the lives she touched, and the indelible mark she leaves on their hearts. The essence of her being — her passion for family, care for others, and love for her furry companions — will remain a guiding light, forever cherished and missed.

Those wishing to make memorial contributions in Jeannie’s honor are requested to do so to Fuzzy Friends of Waco or The American Diabetes Association.
The family invites you to leave a message or memory of Jeannie on her, “Tribute Wall” at www.WHBfamily.com.