Current Obituaries-Less than 2 months old   

 

DEACON AUGUST HESSE, III, Chuckwagon Cook, Canyon, TX,   May 04, 1940 – October 28, 2016

August was born May 4, 1940 in Dalhart to August, Jr. and Cheniel Hawkins Hesse.

He graduated from Dalhart High School in 1958. He graduated from Panhandle A&M College with a bachelor’s of science degree in Animal Husbandry and a Commission in the United States Army in May of 1963. He received a Masters of Agriculture degree from West Texas State University in December of 1981.

While in college he met Barbetta Hays. They were married on August 27, 1962 in Guymon, Oklahoma.

August retired as a Lt. Colonel from the US Army. While serving in the Army, he was awarded the Silver Star, Bronze Star with 3 Oak Leaf clusters, the Purple Heart and many other honors.

On July 23, 1988, August was ordained a Deacon in the Roman Catholic Church by Bishop L. T. Matthiesen. He served as a Deacon at St. Ann’s Catholic Church for many years.

He was a 4th Degree Knight of Columbus, Charter member of St. Ann’s council of the Knights of Columbus and a past Grand Knight. He was also a member of the Military Order of the Purple Heart, and a past member of the board of Catholic Family Services.

He was preceded in death by his parents; and two sisters, Mary Lou Hesse and Jamie Joe Hesse.

Survivors include his wife of 54 years, Barbetta; two sons, August Hesse, IV and Charles Hesse both of Canyon; a sister, Becky Mitchell and husband, Jerry of Dalhart; a brother, Jason Hesse and wife, Melody of Canyon; three nephews, Jody Mitchell, Justin Hesse, Jarod Hesse; two nieces, Jamie Gillispie and Jocelyn De Villiers; and numerous great nieces and great nephews.

Memorials may be sent to St. Ann’s Catholic Church, PO Box 59, Canyon, TX 79015 or to your favorite charity.

Ken Cunningham, Chuckwagon Cook, C Bar C Chuckwagon, Hartley, TX

Larry Scott, Western Swing Promoter, Disc Jockey, Terrell, TX

Trey Allen, Kansas, Cowboy Poet

Paul Hudman, San Angelo, Texas, chuckwagon cook, rancher, vet, owner of Zentner’s Steak House

James Russell Gough (Jim Gough, Mr. Texas) Mar 18, 1931-June 7, 2016

James Russell Gough (Jim Gough, Mr. Texas), was born March 18, 1931 to Earl and Margaret Gough in Stephenville, Texas where his father was Dean of Music at John Tarleton College.

Jim grew up in Austin, attending Austin High School and The University of Texas before joining the Navy during the Korean Conflict. He served as a journalist, building an Armed Services Radio Station at Sangley Point, Philippine Islands. Upon returning Jim studied commercial art at the prestigious Art Center College of Design.

Jim met and married his wife, Gail Williams, in 1961 at a ceremony at Hyde Park Christian Church, Austin, where Gail was employed as choir director. Throughout Jim’s remarkable career he was able to utilize his talents as an advertising art director, in Dallas and Houston. With his gifted, vibrant voice he recorded untold numbers of radio and TV commercials. Jim Gough, the man called “Mr. Texas” used his patented Texas drawl to record 60 Western audio books and his acting career included around 20 movies and TV series. In recognition of a lifetime promoting, playing, singing and recording with bands and combos, Jim was inducted into 5 Western Swing Hall of Fame Societies. He made lasting friends wherever he went

 

Richard “Rick” Vanaugh

 8/3/1954-6/1/2016-He played drums for Kitty Wells and Charlie Louvin, Jeannie Seely and Jack Greene, and Mel Tillis and Dottie West over his long career, but he will forever be known as one of the backbones of one of the most beloved bands in Nashville, the Western swing-inspired supergroup The Time Jumpers, and one of the friendliest musicians you would ever meet.

Richard “Rick” Vanaugh, long-time drummer for The Time Jumpers, and a studio and touring musician, has passed away. Rick recently received a terminal diagnosis for liver disease, and was only given months to live. And estimated 400 friends and family of the drummer had gathered on May 22nd at The Nashville Palace for a benefit for Rick, and the event included performances and appearances by notable Nashville names.

Rick Vanaugh was born on August 3rd, 1954, and was originally from Youngstown, Ohio. It is said Rick was so passionate about country music, he immediately pursued a career after finishing high school, moving to Nashville and getting his start behind Charlie Louvin. This would lead to a string of high-profile gigs behind numerous country music Hall of Famers, and multiple television appearances on TNN shows such as Church Street Station and New Country. Vanaugh joined Lorrie Morgan’s band in 1989, and played on her 1991 record Something in Red, and spent half a decade playing for the country star. He also played on Vince Gill’s 2011 record The Guitar Slinger.

Later in life though, Vanaugh’s claim to fame would become his steady hand behind The Time Jumpers. Joining in 1998 to take the place of Kenny Malone when the band landed a regular gig at The Station Inn, Rick Vanaugh became a staple of the supergroup of studio musicians and notable Nashville artists, including Vince Gill, fiddle player Kenny Sears, and steel guitar player Paul Franklin. Over 20 musicians can claim to be a part of The Time Jumpers at one point, not to mention all of the famous guest musicians, but Rick was one of the few constants in the lineup and played on both the band’s records—their debut in 2007, and 2012’s self-titled release.

 

Steve “Steve Richie” Langston, October 12, 1954 – May 23, 2016- Steve Langston, aka Steve Richie, died May 23, 2016, surrounded by a host of loving family members and friends.

Most comfortable with a microphone in his hand or at his deck in a radio studio, Steve was a fixture of the radio waves across the South Plains for more than 40 years. At the time of his death, he was operations manager for KSSL Radio, as well as the voice of the Richie Gang Morning Show.

He was born in Lubbock on October 12, 1954 to Otho Lee and Mildred Langston. He graduated from Lubbock High School and completed a course of study at the Elkins Broadcast Institute. As a teenager, he realized his passion for radio and could not possibly have done anything else. Among his call letters were KBYG, KSEL, KPOS, Rebel, KOBT and others. He dearly loved the music of classic country. He admitted being a redneck…and loved living that life. And, he loved riding motorcycles.

Guy Clark, May, 2016, age 74, Monahans, Texas, Country Music performer and songwriterJohnny Seay, Johnny Seay born John Allan Seay, Jr., July 15, 1940 died May 14, 2016 was an American country singer. His first hits came in the late 1950s, and his career saw a resurgence in the mid-1960s, particularly with the release of his spoken word single “Day For Decision”.

Bud McCauley, Cowboy Cartoonist and artist, from Amarillo, TX

James Robinson, Texas Artist;James Robinson was a fine artist who had a fabulous career over a 40 year period. His specialty was recreating Texas Hill Country western scenes long past, such as rounding up loose longhorn strays.James passed away in 2015 and his family published a book of his works in January, 2016, enlisting Vicki Stavig (Art of the West magazine) to develop a narrative on him, supplemented with offerings from notables such as Nolan Ryan, and other artists. Well over 100 paintings are depicted in high resolution scans

Billy Joe Rogers, Farmersville, Texas, saddlemaker, leatherworker and musician.

Pat Richardson, California Cowboy Poet-Born in Caruthers,CA on February 11, 1934, Pat was a long time resident of Merced,CA. He is preceded in death by his wi…fe of 49 years, Jane Richardson. Pat was a loving husband and father first and foremost. He is survived by children Terry Richardson, Kelly Luiz and Mary Fitchett; grandchildren Brandon Richardson, Katelyn Lewis and Alicia Luiz; great-grandson Conor; along with Julie Nelson, Brett Lewis, Debbie Corvaglia, Breanna Villegas, and Brandon Villegas. Pat was well-known as fair in business, a hard worker and quick and creative thinker, and above all as an honest man. Pat’s true gift was his artistic ability, mainly cowboy poetry; his ability to interject his own experience, wit and wisdom into his art left him in a class all his own.

Curtis Potter, Country and Western Swing Musician, Abilene, TX

Jean Cates, Hartley, TX, Cook for C Bar C Chuckwagon

Lynn Anderson, Tennessee, western and country singer

Gary Bloxsom, Western Swing Musician, Oklahoma

Jack Ferguson, Spurmaker, Colorado

Howard Council, Lawton, OK Saddlemaker

James “Jimmy” Young Sr., 85, died Friday, Oct. 3, 2014.

 

 

 

T.L. White, Rule, TX, November 16, 1930-September 26, 2014. TL is best known for his fine leather garments and was at many western and western trade shows.  He passed away of cancer

 

Bill Dessens, Western Swing, TX

Truitt Cunningham, Western Swing

Snuff Garrett, Western songwriter, TX

Herb Jeffries, California western musician and actor

Don Butler, Saddlemaker, Sheridan, WY

Robert “Bob” Cobb, Western Swing Musician, Oct, 17-1924 -Dec. 8, 2013

Robert “Bob” Cobb, age 89 of Claremore, passed this life on Sunday, December 8, 2013 at the St. John’ s Medical Center in Tulsa, Oklahoma.  He was born in Wagoner, Oklahoma on October 17, 1924 to Nettie (Sullivan) Cobb and Gilbert “Ben” Cobb. Bob has played the bass electric guitar since he was 5 years old.

Bob served six years in the U. S. Navy and was an Aerial Gunner and was on the Dive Bombing squadron. He was on multiple aircraft carrier ships in the Pacific quadroons.  While in the navy he accompanied a thirty two person orchestra with his guitar.  Bob married Doris (Hatch) Cobb in Oakland, California on February 4, 1947; she preceded him in death in 2003. He was a welder/fitter for major pipeline corporations.  He also was a farmer during this same time. Bob sold his farm and started his own family business, Eagle Manufacturing, Inc. in 1981 in Tulsa, which they operated for fourteen years.  Bob has belonged to many country/western swing groups. He was a five time Western Swing Hall of Famer.  He has performed with many famous music artists, a few visited him at his home and he also played for the USO Shows and with the Bob Fieldsted Band. Bob played last for the Oklahoma Veterans Center in Claremore on October 16, 2013. His music was definitely his hobby, but his family and grandkids were very dear to his heart that would bring that little grin.

Tuffy Cooper, Cowboy, New Mexico, father of Roy Cooper, calfroper, MC atd Lincoln County Cowboy Symposium.

Charlie Camden, Cowboy Poet, Idaho

Les Darsey, Chuckwagon Cook, Texas

Jimmy Boggs, Electra, TX, western swing guitar player Mar. 6, 1945-Aug 29, 2013

“Cowboy” Jack Clement, TN Apr. 5, 1928-Aug 8, 2013

Leon Flick, Cowboy Poet, OR

Rudy Alexander, Estacada, OR, Western Swing Musician, died 7-15-2013

Curly Lewis, OK, Tulsa, OK, Western Swing fiddler, passed away 6-14-2013, played with Bob Wills

Boots Reynolds, Idaho, Cowboy Cartoonist, passed away at his home in Idaho July 12, 2013.

Rich Dubois, Rhode Island-He was the fiddle player on the Great CD Good Bye Liza Jane Hello Western Swing from Peter Ward & The Lone Pine Western Swing Band. Rich Dubois, died suddenly last week, heart attack, at 53. Extremely nice person and excellent member of many bands, the kind of guy who’d harmonize vocals without being prodded .. He was inducted into the Rhode Island Country Music Hall of Fame and won numerous fiddle prizes in the state starting from his teenage years

Maurice “Reese” Anderson, Dec. 12, 1934-2013- After graduating from high school, Maurice Anderson immediately pursued his passion for music by playing professionally with a band 5 nights a week. Showing a remarkable dedication and further displaying his zeal for all things musical, Maurice took on the extra task of teaching steel guitar at McCord Music, one of the most renowned music stores in Dallas history and a local hotspot at the time.  During Maurice’s extensive music career he has worked with an astounding number of legendary artists including Gene Autry, Tom Jones and LeAnn Rimes. He has appeared in the films “Honeysuckle Rose” (with Willie Nelson), “On the Road Again” and “Dallas, the Early Years”. Throughout the years Maurice Anderson has deservedly earned an immense number of accolades. Most notably he has been inducted into The International Steel Guitar Hall of Fame, The Texas Steel Guitar Hall of Fame, The Texas Western Swing Hall of Fame and The California Western Swing Hall of Fame. He has even been nominated for a Grammy Award!  Early in his career, Reece gained national prominence with Bob Wills, then distinguished himself with remarkable talent and facility in many music genres.  He recorded and performed internationally with major artists on radio, television and motion pictures. Co-founder and President of MSA Guitars, he is a legendary player known worldwide as a teacher, innovator, writer and recording artist and is referenceddd as the “Master of Chords”. He was inducted into the Steel Guitar Hall of Fame in Dallas, TX in 2006 

Bill Owen, Western Artist– Cowboy Artist January 23, 1942 – June 15, 2013
Bill Owen was born in 1942 in Gila Bend, Arizona, to a mother who was an artist and a father who had been a cowboy throughout the early 1900’s. These influences shaped his desire to be an artist and cultivated his interest in the cowboy lifestyle. Having inherited the God-given talent, it was only natural he would strive to become an artist who chronicled the lives and works of the contemporary cowboy.
Bill became a member of the prestigious Cowboy Artists of America in 1973 at the age of 31, and was the Senior Active Member at the time of his passing in his 40th year as a CAA. Throughout Bill’s career his multi-faceted and self-taught talents earned him many medals and awards in Sculpture, Drawing, Watercolor and Oils at numerous shows, both here and abroad.
Bill felt compelled to chronicle the lives and works of the contemporary cowboy and believed they were the true endangered species of our time. He was passionate about portraying every detail of these real people, real animals, and real happenings in real places with complete accuracy. Even though he was honored with many awards and his talents were admired and appreciated by many throughout his career, his proudest moments were realized when a cowboy looked at one of his pieces and said, “That’s exactly the way it is!”
In 1989, while practicing for a rodeo, Bill survived an accident which resulted in the loss of sight in his right eye, affecting his depth perception and forcing him to give up sculpting. He never allowed himself to consider this loss a handicap, but greatly missed the medium for thirteen years; successfully resuming sculpting in 2002.
For all of Bill’s artistic achievements, he was especially proud of The Arizona Cowpuncher’s Scholarship Organization, which he founded in 1995 to help finance college educations for young people of the Arizona ranching community.
Bill was admired and loved by many in the art world as well as the cowboy world. But more importantly, his family loved him in a “big” way. He was their Patriarch, their rock, and the glue that held them together. His passing has left a hole in their hearts that can never be filled.
The Owen home in Kirkland, Arizona where Bill lived with his wife Valerie, allowed him the pleasure of visiting nearby ranches to gather research for his artwork, which is what he was doing when he went to be with the Lord. He was on the beautiful Diamond A Ranch in Northern Arizona, enjoying more of God’s country he was so often blessed by. He was doing what he loved, surrounded by cowboys, and he was gone in the blink of an eye. Not a bad end to the beautiful life lived by Bill Owen, Cowboy Artist.
There will be a service to honor Bill’s life and everlasting legacy on Saturday, June 29th at 11:00 A.M. at Lifepointe Church, 10100 E. State Route 69 in Prescott Valley, AZ. In lieu of flowers, it is requested that donations be made to: The Arizona Cowpuncher’s Scholarship Organization, Inc. c/o George Vensel, Treasurer PO Box 55 Patagonia, AZ 85624

(List is by alphabetical  & Interest order)

………….BIT AND SPUR

Cates, Jerry, (June 2, 2011) Spurmaker, Amarillo, TX

Cundiff, Charles, Ghostriders Clothing, Dallas, TX

Gish, Joe, Western Collector, TX

Ford,  R. F. (May 5, 2011) Spurmaker, Water Valley, TX

Gardner, Bill Saddlemaker, WY

Maloy, Bill, Saddlemaker, Reno, NV

Rule, Bill, Western Collector, OK

Stucky, Paul (May 22, 2011) Western Collector, Denison, TX

………….CHUCKWAGON

Mrs. Mickey Love Baird, 71 (July 16, 1941-Sept 29, 2012) Snyder, TX-Mickey Love Weaver Baird went to be with her Heavenly Father on Saturday September 29, 2012 . She died suddenly, but peacefully, in her sleep, at home in Snyder, Texas.

Mickey was born July 16, 1941 in Concho County, Texas . Growing up in a ranching family winning every major stock show in the State of Texas, her senior year of High School. She graduated from Angelo State University and received her Masters Degree from Sul Ross State University.

She is preceded in death by her parents Mackey and Dorothy Weaver, of Melvin, and her brother Jack Weaver of Menard. She is survived by her husband, companion, and best friend of 49 years, Jerry Baird, of Snyder. Their undying love and relationship was one that, anyone who knew them, was envious of.

Although Mickey was never blessed with her own children, she raised many. Her legacy will live on in the many young lives she touched, mentored and loved. She was a teacher and coach for many years in public schools throughout Texas before coming to Snyder in 1972 as the college’s First Women’s Tennis Coach, Cheerleading Sponsor and ultimately, the Director of Student Activities at Western Texas College. She held that position at the college until her retirement in 1997.

Mickey will be remembered by many of her students as “Mrs. Baird “. She never met a kid she didn’t love,and always had a kind word and a hug for each and every one that passed through the doors of the WTC Student Union Building.

In lieu of flowers donations can be made to Western Texas College or Jerry and Mickey Baird Foundation at Sul Ross State University.

Barrett, Pat, Chuckwagon, TX

Brooks, Helen, Chuckwagon, El Reno, OK, (Mar. 15, 1926-May 16, 2012) Helen was the wife of Garnet Brooks and also a presenter at the AWA Awards giving the chuckwagon award each year.  She was involved with the National Cowboy Hall of Fame and many other events.

Cotter, Bud, Lubbock, TX, Chuckwagon cook

Edhahl, Ed (Oct. 30, 1935-June 26, 2012), Stamford, TX-Ed graduated from Stamford High School in 1953, where he played football and loved being a Bulldog. After graduation, Ed furthered his education at Texas Tech University, obtaining a Bachelor of Science degree in Finance. He married Peggy Ann Mahone on April 12, 1963 in Lubbock, Texas. Ed was the founder of Ekdahl Real Estate, and co-owner of C & E Mortgage Company in Stamford.   Ed was a member of the Exchange Club, Stamford Masonic Lodge, Rotary Club, and the Texas Cowboy Reunion Oldtimers Association. He was a member of Orient Street Church of Christ and was a Gideon. So much can be said about this great man, including he was a good husband, father, grandfather and a man of his word.

Gilbert, Joe Bill

Hatfield, Horace, Chuckwagon, TX age 68, Jan. 28, 2012. Horace was a chuckwagon cook who loved what he was doing and lived every day to the fullest.

DICKENS, TX– Donald D.B. Burnett Hurdt, 76, of Dickens, Texas passed away on December 24, 2012. Don was born in Hobart, Oklahoma on July 21, 1936. Don graduated from Hobart High School and continued on to New Mexico Military Institute and Texas Christian University. Don was married to Martha Annette Gass on June 14, 1955. They were married 31 years and had three children, John, Linda, and Cody. Don owned Hurdt Seeds where he created his own seed varieties. He and his dad, J.T. Hurdt, invented the Hydromist that puts moisture back into the ginned cotton prior to being pressed into a bale; and he had his own Delinting Plant for a majority of his adult life. He was also a rancher and loved the outdoors. He loved to laugh, pull pranks, and holidays (4th of July and Christmas!). What Don was best known for was his deep and faithful friendships throughout his life. All his friends are especially remembered for their love and support throughout the years. Don is survived by Edith Boots Joy Wells; son, Johnnie and Mary Sue Hurdt; daughter, Linda and Rob Winkler; son, Cody and Karen Hurdt; Kim and Candy Vale; Melody Wells; Sheere and Robert Alsup; along with many grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Taylor, Joe, Chuckwagon Cook, Lockney, TX (July 10, 1935-Apr. 21, 2012) Joe was born July 10, 1935 in Lockney, Texas to Clifford Johnney “Jack” Taylor and Josie Louvilla (Martin) Taylor. He graduated from Lockney High School and later attended Texas Tech University. Joe honorably served his country during the Korean Conflict as a member of the U.S Army. He returned home to farm and married Virginia Taylor, October 12, 1957 in her childhood home in Northeast Floyd County.

Joe was a friendly face in any crowd and fun to be around.  He was a mainstay at the Chuckwagon Cookoff in Lubbock each September, being the lead wagon on the east side.  You’ll never forget him in his big hat, shorts and flip flops before the cookoff.  He will be greatly missed.d life to the fullest.
Joe was active member of the Lockney Young Farmers, Lockney Rodeo Association, a 4-H Leader, Lockney Volunteer Firefighter, and a member of the Chuckwagon Association. He loved participating in the National Cowboy Symposium and cooking in the chuckwagon cookoff and also cooking for groups on the ranch. Joe was a member of the Caprock Canyon State Park Partners. He was known for his colorful personality and was a jokester. He loved people and never met a stranger and he was ALWAYS trying to get by with something that Virginia wouldn’t find out about!

Wolf, John F., (1922-2012) Crossroads, NM chuckwagon builder, long-time Lea County resident John Wolf of Crossroads passed away October 2, 2012 at the Good Samaritan Society home in Lovington.

Wolf was born Nov. 16, 1922 in Cleveland, Ohio and left home during the Depression years to work as a cowboy on ranches in Texas and New Mexico east of the El Paso area prior to, and after military service in World War II. During the war Wolf served in the Marines and saw action in four major Pacific campaigns including the battle on Iwo Jima, during which he was an eyewitness to the flag-raising on Mount Suribachi, Feb. 23, 1945.

In the late 1940’s Wolf worked on ranches in Lea County, namely the Lane and Underwood ranches in the northern part of the county. In 1949 he married Barbara E. Klein, also from Ohio. In 1954 the couple moved to Crossroads where they purchased a package store from Henry Reid.

In the late 1970’s John Wolf began rebuilding chuck wagons, buggies and horse-drawn conveyances. Wolf Wagon Works was established as a business in 1979. The Wagon Works was run by John and Barbara (Bobbie) Wolf until 1994 when it was sold to Douglas Vitt of California. Wolf stayed on as a consultant and contract-worker until 2005.

In his declining years, John Wolf made spurs, walking canes, and traveled to cowboy symposiums and Western trade shows.  He was a faithful Mason and was   Past Master of Lovington Lodge #46 serving  in 1975.  He was also a member of York Rite and Scottish Rite.  John was preceded in death by his wife in 2008, and is survived by his son Bill, 53, who works as a substitute teacher in the Lovington school system.

……………MUSIC & POETRY

Anderson, Liz    (Oct 28, 2011)   Famed songwriter and singer Liz Anderson died of complications from heart and lung disease after a brief  hospitalization. The singer, who is the mother  of Lynn Anderson and a key player in the success of Merle Haggard and  others, was admitted to St. Thomas Hospital in Nashville on Oct. 28.  She was 81.

Baker, Kenny, Bluegrass Fiddler, TN

Barlow, Jack, Country, TN

Berry, Dale, Western Actor, 83, passed away Oct. 20, 2011, Dale married Dorothy  Louise Lewis, his childhood sweetheart on January 25, 1947. This union brought  three children, five grandchildren and five great grandchildren. Dale  spent his early years in the entertainment business and the central part of his  life, working with his father and his uncle in the heavy construction machinery business.  Dale helped raise funds for many children’s charities. “I had a great life and enjoyed every minute of it, I would not  change a thing, even if I could do it all over” comments Dale.

Broughton, James C. “J.C.” (Apr. 24, 1934-June 26, 2012) Prattville, OK-J.C. was married to Emma Gene Mills in 1954, together they raised three children.

J.C. was a well known musician. He taught himself to play the fiddle at a young age and preformed with many great artist such as Marvin McCoullough, Billy Parker, Jana Jay, Porter Wagner, Willie Nelson and many others. He was Fiddler for Round Up Boys, South Forty Band, Les Gilliam and the Silver Lake Band.  J.C. is also a national championship fiddle player. He won numerous fiddle contest including Oklahoma State Champion Fiddler as well as National Oldtime Fiddler’s Contest in Weiser, Idaho. He also played the Saxophone and made fiddles by hand. J.C. loved his family, his friends and his music. He was a great person and was well liked by everyone. He will be missed by all.

Cahill, Charlie, Cowboy Poet, Midwest City, OK Apr. 17, 1944-Dec. 4, 2011

Cannon,  Barney, Disc Jockey, KWKH, Shreveport, LA

Charleton, Buddy, Country Musician, VA

Cook, JIm, Storyteller, AZ;, Sept 25, 1935-Jan 10, 2012. Jim’s first marriage was into a pioneer Arizona ranching family, where he developed an appreciation for their way of life. Later, he was a member of Trail Dust, an ensemble of cowboy musicians and poets.  Jim wrote some cowboy poetry, and performed at a few gatherings. His first poem, “Subdivided Cowboy Blues”, was written sometime in the ’70s.

Cooper, Wilma Lee, Country, TN

Cuviello, Johnny,Western Swing, TX

Dean, Jimmy,Country Singer and performer, Plainview, TX

Deaton, Billy.  Agent, TN

Dossey, Slim 1918-2012-Born in Brownsville, Kentucky, in 1918,Slim Dossey started his entertainment career when he was just about 16 years of age. He graduated from high school in 1937. He had athletic talent and earned a basketball scholarship to attend college. After a year of college, he decided to concentrate on music, and had a band, the Green River Boys.

World War II interrupted Slim’s musical endeavors. He was a chief petty officer in the U. S. Navy, serving in the South Pacific Upon discharge, he returned to the northwest and Washington. He worked on Channel 5, KING-TV on the Texas Jim Lewis and His Lonestar Cowboys show.

Around 1952 Slim moved to Kirkland, Washington and was doing a daily broadcast over KRKL, and was also doing personal appearances in the evening at a Tacoma night spot.

In early 1953, Slim made his way to California. In Los Angeles, Slim found work on various shows such as the Jimmy Wakely Sunday Night TV Show and the Spade Cooley Show.

He eventually became a band leader at the The Town Hall Party, broadcast nationwide on the NBC radio network. He became a part of Smokey Rogers outfit in San Diego.

In the mid-1950’s, Slim was touring with the Grand Ole Opry. He would usually be the opening act and emcee, sometimes playing bass for Eddy Arnold.

Slim was described as someone with a Tex Williams ‘look’ – he was six feet four inches tall and only 190 pounds back in 1954.

Slim was inducted into the Western Swing Hall of Fame in 1994.

Douglas, Charlie, DJ, MS (11-24-2011) PICAYUNE, MS-Charlie Douglas, who was inducted into the Country Music Disc Jockey Hall of Fame in 1994, began his radio career in 1953 at KLIC out of Monroe, LA. Overdrive magazine named Douglas its Trucking Disc Jockey of the Year in 1973, and there were also awards from the Country Music Association.

Emery, Jerry (1935-2012) Tulsa, OK-Jerry was born Jan. 18, 1935 in Kansas City, MO.

At the age of 6 years old, he began accordion lessons. His mom and dad frequently went to Cain’s Ballroom to dance and listen to ‘Bob Wills and the Texas Playboys’. They would often take Jerry with them. Little did he know that one day he’d have the opportunity to be a part of the history of that famous Tulsa landmark.

It wasn’t long until he started playing Western Swing and Country songs on his accordion (by ear), therefore neglecting his regular lessons. He won his first talent contest at the age of 10 years old. He won a second talent contest at 11 years old, which was aired over local radio station KTUL in Tulsa. The Master of Ceremonies was Al Clauser and Roy Pickett. He remembers Art Davis and his Band playing over the same station at that time.

Over the years he performed with many musicians around Tulsa and Oklahoma City, including several Western Swing bands from the Sacramento area.

In 1960 Jerry began playing the piano (by ear).

In 1991, Jerry was inducted into the California Western Swing Hall of Fame. Jerry and Shirley were ambassadors for the Western Swing Society in Sacramento, CA. They represented the society in the area of Public Relations for the OKlahoma-Texas-Kansas-Arkansas area.

Estes, Bufford, TX, former member of the River Road Boys

Flowers, Bryant, (1922-2012) Western Swing, Bryant Flowers was born January 19, 1922 in Perryton, TX. Bryant was a veteran of the U.S. Army, serving at the end of World War II in the Pacific Theater. He had been a resident of Pampa since 1967. He was a member of the Miami American Legion #106, Pampa Elks Lodge, and the Western Swing Music Society of the Southwest.

Franer, David,  (1944-2012) Hillside Records, Florida, country music producer

Gilbert, Joe Bill, (1935-Aug. 21, 2012)Western Swing, MILLSAP, TX— Joe Bill Gilbert, 77, passed away Tuesday, Aug. 21, 2012, surrounded by family at his home in Millsap. Funeral: 10 a.m. Friday at Grace Community Fellowship, 111 West Ranch Lane, Weatherford. Interment: Hill Cemetery, Millsap. Visitation: 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday at White’s Funeral Home, 130 Houston Ave., Weatherford. Bill graduated from Millsap High School in 1953 and attended and graduated from Texas A&M University with a Bachelor of Science Degree in 1957. He married Norma Beth Carter on Sept. 5, 1956. He taught high school in Santo for 19 years. He lived for his family and his music and played the fiddle for 71 years. He also played a number of other instruments but was quoted as saying, “I am a fiddler”, despite other accomplishments and capabilities. It was a fundamental part of his life but he said he played for the fun and enjoyment of it. In 1973 he co-founded the Texas Old Time Fiddlers Association, served as their first president, and helped pass down old time fiddle breakdown music to the next generation. In 1998 he co-founded the Western Swing Society of the Southwest along with being inducted into a number of music halls of fame and accomplishing and winning numerous awards. Survivors: Beautiful wife of 56 years, Norma Gilbert of Millsap; sons, Bart Gilbert and wife, Melia, of Millsap, and Chris Gilbert and wife, Penny, of Millsap; 12 grandchildren; and seven great-grandchildren. He will be loved and missed forever.

Grammer, Billy Country, TN

Grant, Marshall, Country, TN

Graydon, Ken (1933 – 2011) Ken was born October 30, 1933 in Long Beach California and raised in Bakersfield where he raised and trained horses with his father, who had been a working cowboy in Seligman, Arizona in the 1920s.    He wrote songs about cowboys and the sea and railroads. He often said cowboys and sailors have a lot in common – they live with nature and they follow the stars.

Hallam, Dene, Country DJ, GA

Hamilton, Locke (1952 – 2011)   With her husband Les and sidekick Norman Winter, they were known as Prickly Pair and the Cactus Chorale.  Locke Corson was born June 16, 1952 in Philadelphia, PA and married Les Hamilton on Dec. 31, 1996, in Lander, Wyoming. She was a world class equestrian trainer and competitor.  The group received numerous awards.  Locke was a delightful lady full of spunk and a vitality for life.  Her music will linger after her, and she will be remembered joyfully by her family.

Harman, Buddy, Country, TN

High, Johnny, Country Promoter, TX

Husky, Ferlin, Country, TN

Ingram, John, Western Music, Mesquite, TX

Kieth, Ben, Steel Guitar, TN

Le Master, Gary (1942-2012) ,AR One of the Sons of the Pioneers. Gary LeMaster, lead guitarist for the Sons of the Pioneers since 1986, passed away at his home in Branson, MO on Sept. 9, 2012, following a lengthy illness. Not only was he the group’s lead guitarist, he sang tenor beautifully and was a masterful entertainer. In addition, in the words of the Pioneers’ long-time friend, Fred Goodwin, “Gary was one of the most popular members in the Sons of the Pioneers’ history. Everybody loved him.”

Although he was a tenor, and his voice blended beautifully in trio songs, he also sang lead, baritone and could even drop down to bass if necessary, following in the footsteps of former Pioneers leader, Lloyd Perryman.

He was born to a musical family in Ashland, KY, began learning to play guitar at age 6 and formed his own band at 13. Soon, he was performing with The Hollywood Argyles but that career was interrupted by a stint with the Army Rangers. Afterward, he returned to music and a job as Entertainment Director for Sam’s Town in California where he met the Sons of the Pioneers.

A few years later, in 1984, Sunny Spencer joined the Sons of the Pioneers. Sunny’s daughter, Valerie, was Gary’s wife. In the 1990s, while Gary entertained the fans, Valerie kept them informed by serving as the editor of the Tumbleweed Times, the Pioneers’ newsletter, and she has continued to be an important link to fans ever since.

Shortly before he became ill, Gary recorded two solo CDs in tribute to the Sons of the Pioneers: “The White Hat Collection.” He had planned a third volume. He will be remembered fondly by friends and fans around the world…..  O.J. Sikes

Lister, “Big” Bill, Musician, TX

Lindley, Clay, Western entertainer, TX

Locke, Rusty, Swing Musician, NE

Locklin, Hank, Country, TN

Louvin, Charlie, Country, TN

Lyon, Johnny, Swing Musician, TX

McDaniel, Mel, Country, OK

Mooney, Ralph, Steel Guitar, OK

Musgrave, Curly, Western Singer, CA

Nichols, Joe Paul, Country, Jacksboro, TX

Norskog, Howard, ID Cowboy Poet

O’Gwynn, James, Country, MS

Owens, Dave, Country Musician, TX

Pruitt, Jack (Houston), Country Musician, 78 (Dec. 5, 2011)  Jack Pruitt was Marty Robbins’guitar player for many years and was a part of the country music industry for his entire life.  He was also at one time married to Grand Ole Opry Legend, Jeannie Pruitt.

Puhallo, Mike, Cowboy Poet, Kamloops, BC

Phillips, Bill, Country, TN

Shelton, Raymond Allen, Bluegrass, TN

Singletary, Jay, Western Swing Promoter, OK

Smith, Carl, Country Singer, TN

Stoval, “Doc” Gordon, (Nov. 28-1937 Mar. 21, 2012, Western Singer and Poet, Lithia Springs, GA) A native Virginian, Doc was well known as a Western singer and cowboy poet throughout America, having performed in twenty-five of the fifty states. Honored in 2002 as Georgia’s Official Cowboy Balladeer by the Georgia State Legislature, he entertained audiences both young and old as he strived to keep alive the history of the West in music and song. In November of 2004, Doc was inducted into the Atlanta Country Music Hall of Fame, the first cowboy singer so honored, and in October of 2009 he received the Cowboy Keeper Award from the National Day of the Cowboy Association for his contributions to the preservation of Western heritage and cowboy culture. He had been employed as the Entertainment and Sponsorship Manager for Booth Western Art Museum since 2004.

Wayne, Don, Country, TN

 

………WESTERN SWING

 

Adams, Bill, Western Swing, TX-

MY wife Marlene and I first met Bill and his lovely wife Naomi when we first attended the Legends Of Western Swing Festival, Wichita Falls in June 2001. We were on our honeymoon and welcomed with open arms by Miss Gloria and the many people attending, including Bill and Nay. We made many long standing friends and Bill taught Marlene how to do the Texas Two Step. I interviewed Bill at the festival and this can be accessed from the Articles Page on my website.

Marlene’s thoughts are… “Bill gave me a small silver spur trinket. I look at it and think of Bill. I think of all the things he introduced me to. The first Two Step I did was with him. The elegant tall man in his white Stetson and boots just glided me round the floor with ease. The love and care he took to greet people, he had so many qualities he was a people’s man. I just loved his version of “Faded Love” when I heard him sing it to Miss Gloria at the Legends Festival. We had the best time with Bill and Nay when we stayed at their home and met all their lovely friends. Bill and Nay told me about the Nodding Donkeys in the oil fields.”

In September that year the devastating tragedy of 9/11 took place. That afternoon I emailed a message of condolence for the tragedy that had happened to the American people. Bill took a copy of my message to his local newspaper The Nocona News and it was published on Thursday 20^th September. Bill sent me a copy of the newspaper, which I still have today.

We became good friends with Bill and Nay, keeping in touch through email and we met again in 2003 when Marlene and I travelled to Fort Worth for Red Steagall’s Cowboy Gathering. We all watched the Ranch Rodeo in the Coliseum with Nay and Bill explaining some of the aspects of the cutting horses. One of the competitions we enjoyed; Nay explained that the cowboys had to rope a cow and extract a sample of milk into a bottle….very entertaining!!!

Bill and Nay offered us the hospitality of their home in Nocona and introduced us to many people, particularly at the local Dairy Queen on the Tuesday when the entire town got together for the evening and burgers were on sale for just 1 single dollar. Bill also arranged for us to tour the local Nocona Boot Factory and the Nokona Ballglove factory that have designed and handcrafted baseball gloves since 1934. A Few days later Bill and Nay took us to a monthly dance for seniors that Bill and his band played for. People travelled a hundred miles or more for this dance and if one of the regulars didn’t turn up without any notice phone calls were made to find out why!!! They had a Jacob’s Table Supper and the fun filled Chair Dance! A chair placed at each side of the room when the ladies formed a line and as the dancers came round the lady dropped out and joined the line and the gentleman took the lady sitting on the chair as his next partner. This way all the ladies got a dance even if they come without a partner.

All good stuff!!! Memories for ever and now Bill has joined his good friend Bobby Boatright and other fantastic musicians to play their music to the stars!…..Graham Lees, England

 

Anderson, Deacon, Western Swing, TX

Ayres, Roy J. (1930-2012) Riverview, FL. Roy was born in Columbus, MS and grew up loving music. He taught himself to play steel guitar at age 8. Turning 16, he began his professional career with Pee Wee King and the Golden West Cowboys, playing weekly on the Grand Ole Opry. He was Pee Wee’s lead steel on the original recording of the “Tennessee Waltz”. Roy obtained his master’s degree in physics from the University of Lousiville in 1956 and worked 8 yerars in the aerospace industry. He worked at Fender Music, where he contributed to the design of many products. He was inducted into the Seattle Music Hall of Fame, the Sacramento Hall of Fame, the 57th inductee into the International Steel Guitar Hall of Fame in St. Louis.

Bone, Bob,Western Swing Musician, TX

Brewer, Clyde, River Road Boys, Western Swing, Houston, TX

 

Dossey, Slim 1918-2012-Born in Brownsville, Kentucky, in 1918,Slim Dossey started his entertainment career when he was just about 16 years of age. He graduated from high school in 1937. He had athletic talent and earned a basketball scholarship to attend college. After a year of college, he decided to concentrate on music, and had a band, the Green River Boys.

World War II interrupted Slim’s musical endeavors. He was a chief petty officer in the U. S. Navy, serving in the South Pacific Upon discharge, he returned to the northwest and Washington. He worked on Channel 5, KING-TV on the Texas Jim Lewis and His Lonestar Cowboys show.

Around 1952 Slim moved to Kirkland, Washington and was doing a daily broadcast over KRKL, and was also doing personal appearances in the evening at a Tacoma night spot.

In early 1953, Slim made his way to California. In Los Angeles, Slim found work on various shows such as the Jimmy Wakely Sunday Night TV Show and the Spade Cooley Show.

He eventually became a band leader at the The Town Hall Party, broadcast nationwide on the NBC radio network. He became a part of Smokey Rogers outfit in San Diego.

In the mid-1950’s, Slim was touring with the Grand Ole Opry. He would usually be the opening act and emcee, sometimes playing bass for Eddy Arnold.

Slim was described as someone with a Tex Williams ‘look’ – he was six feet four inches tall and only 190 pounds back in 1954.

Slim was inducted into the Western Swing Hall of Fame in 1994.

Duncan, Glenn, (1921-Feb 21, 2013) Western Swing, CA-The oldest living Texas Playboy

Emery, Jerry (1935-2012) Tulsa, OK-Jerry was born Jan. 18, 1935 in Kansas City, MO.

At the age of 6 years old, he began accordion lessons. His mom and dad frequently went to Cain’s Ballroom to dance and listen to ‘Bob Wills and the Texas Playboys’. They would often take Jerry with them. Little did he know that one day he’d have the opportunity to be a part of the history of that famous Tulsa landmark.

It wasn’t long until he started playing Western Swing and Country songs on his accordion (by ear), therefore neglecting his regular lessons. He won his first talent contest at the age of 10 years old. He won a second talent contest at 11 years old, which was aired over local radio station KTUL in Tulsa. The Master of Ceremonies was Al Clauser and Roy Pickett. He remembers Art Davis and his Band playing over the same station at that time.

Over the years he performed with many musicians around Tulsa and Oklahoma City, including several Western Swing bands from the Sacramento area.

In 1960 Jerry began playing the piano (by ear).

In 1991, Jerry was inducted into the California Western Swing Hall of Fame. Jerry and Shirley were ambassadors for the Western Swing Society in Sacramento, CA. They represented the society in the area of Public Relations for the OKlahoma-Texas-Kansas-Arkansas area.

Hooper, J.E. “Bud” (1924-2012) Plantersville, TX. Born in Joaquin, TX where he learned to play guitar and became widely known as on eof “Bud and Bud, the Hooper Twins, playing country music for 70 years.

Lee, Norma, Sacramento, CA-Hall of fame songwriter and singer passed away, June 29, 2012

 

Mitchell, Dave 1937-2012-Everybody’s favorite western swing trumpeter Dave Mitchell was born in 1937 in Salt Lake City, Utah. He took up        the trumpet when he was 10, playing in school and local bands and listening to all kinds of music.

Dave joined the Navy in 1955 and played in Navy bands all over the world. He formed his own bands and played in Japan, Hong Kong, and other countries in the Far East.

    Dave left the Navy in 1959 and came to California where he again formed bands and played in the San Francisco Bay Area before moving to Sacramento in 1996. He hooked up with his  long-time friend, bassist Mickey Bennett, who introduced Dave to the area music scene and musicians, including the Jazz Society  and the Western Swing Society and their events.

 

Turman, Tommy, Western Swing, CA

Wyble, Jimmy, Western Swing, TX