Pat Crawford Williamson 1938-2023

 

Pat Crawford Williamson

January 19, 1938 - August 14, 2023

 

Patricia Anne Crawford Williamson, 85, departed this world August 14, 2023 after living life with abundant joy and grace.

 

Memorial Service: 2 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 22, 2023, at First Presbyterian Church of Fort Worth followed by a reception at the Rivercrest Country Club. There will be a private interment in Greenwood Memorial Park.

 

Fondly known as "Pat", she was born in Houston, Texas on January 19, 1938 to loving parents, Estrid and Alexander Crawford. Pat embodied a spirit that radiated joy and warmth. Her laughter was as contagious as her love for family and friends. Her life was busy with travel adventures, tennis, gardening and sports.

 

Pat's outgoing nature and insatiable curiosity was reflected in a multitude of experiences. Her senior year she was crowned with the title of Mayfete Queen of Bellaire High (editor’s note: she attended Lamar ’56 and was transferred to the new Bellaire High for her senior year). Continuing her journey at Texas Christian University, she joined the Zeta Tau Alpha sorority, and there met her future husband, J. Donovan "Donny" Williamson. Graduating with a bachelor's degree in education, she and Donny journeyed to Belize to help start a Williamson Dickie factory. Memories of being Donny's secretary without typing skills, mingling with the inhabitants and even sharing her office with a coatimundi, recalled a vivid picture of their time together in Belize. Hurricane Hattie sent them back stateside. Settling in Fort Worth, they nurtured a family of three boys. Pat loved travel, sports, the arts and horticulture. Pat and Donny loved to sail and spent much time on the water, whether it was in a regatta or for pleasure.

 

Her home, adorned with treasures she gathered from lands far and wide, spoke volumes about her global adventures. With great flair she imbued her surroundings with a fashion-forward elegance and an innate sense of interior design.

 

Pat's joy was infectious, whether she was camping with her boys on the ranch or inviting friends for bird hunts. She and Donny traveled widely with their family and friends. Pat and Donny loved to sail and spent much time on the water, whether it was in a regatta or for pleasure. She was a member of the Fort Worth Garden Club, the Lecture Foundation, and The Assembly. She was active in the Junior League and various other Charity organizations. She was a loving wife, mother and grandmother as she relished her time with her children and grandchildren.

 

The family would like to thank Dr. Alan Kelly, whose care was not only exceptional but also peppered with grace and humor; Esmeralda and Alfredo for the many years of devotion and friendship; her dedicated caregivers, Lolli, Pearl, Angela, Blessing, Cynthia, Dorris, Lydia, Rhoda, and Rudo who were there in her final years, ensuring comfort and care.

 

Preceding her in death were her parents; and her brother, Scott.

 

Pat leaves behind a legacy woven with love. She is survived by her beloved husband, Donny; sons, Donovan and his wife, Amy, Alex and his wife, Lori and Greg; grandchildren, Donovan III and his wife, Ashley, Mary Amelia and her husband, Peyton Moss, Crawford, Elisabeth, Sam, Natalie, Sawyer and her husband, Chance Henning, Gregory and Elle; her sister-in-law, Gail Rawl; and a constellation of cousins, nieces and nephews adding to the joy of her life.

 

The family kindly requests memorial donations to the First Presbyterian Church of Fort Worth, the Alzheimer's Association - North Central Texas Chapter, or a charity of your choice in tribute to Pat's spirit and memory.

 

Ted Cowart 1938-2024

 

Ted Charles Cowart
02/05/1938 - 05/24/2024
Born in Oklahoma City on February 5, 1938, Ted Charles Cowart died on May 24, 2024, while on a painting trip to a picturesque ranch just outside Austin, Texas. Painting, drawing, and the Arts were his lifelong passions, and he died in pursuit of more beautiful scenes to capture on canvas. Ted was 86 years old.
Ted was born to William Lomax Cowart and Bessie Viola (Underwood) Cowart in 1938. He is survived by his niece, Monica Rene Cowart; her husband, Kevin Jay Ellenwood; his great-niece, Haley Rebecca Cowart-Sciarrone; and his brother, Bill Tex Cowart; his wife, Joyce Cowart. He was preceded in death by his partner, Gary Palmer Hays.
Ted began his lifelong love of the arts at the very early age of two and started his formal education at eight, when he was awarded a full scholarship to the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston. He continued this M.F.A.H. scholarship through high school while also studying art at Lanier Middle School and Lamar High School. After graduation, he moved to California to study at the Art Center of Design In Los Angeles.
His art education was interrupted by an 18-month stint in mandatory military service. Always inspired by his environment, he painted portraits, but also ignited a love of Europe while in the Army. Many of his works are influenced by memories of scenes of Europe.
After serving in the Army, Ted moved to New York City and embarked on a career in the advertising industry. An opening with Revlon led to a position with a national marketing company. With national clients from New York City to Beverly Hills, as well as portrait work of celebrities, he began concentrating on his artwork and building his reputation. Magazines such as Vogue and Bazaar soon became regular clients.
He returned to Houston to build his own advertising company with his business partner, Gary Hays. As the business of Cowart and Hays grew, Ted began to focus on his painting. Ted enjoyed an ever-growing list of art fans and gained an extensive following for his work, both his beloved landscapes and seascapes of Texas, as well as beautiful abstract paintings. His work has been featured in galleries throughout the country and internationally.
Ted loved his life. His spirit, creativity, and joyful attitude will be missed by friends and family. We invite and encourage anyone touched by Ted's life to share a story or leave a memory on his tribute page on BradshawCarter.com

 

 

Thomas Samuels 1938-2013

Thomas Samuels Obituary

Dr. Thomas E. Samuels

1938- October 14, 2013

 

 

The Samuels family is saddened to announce the death of Thomas E. Samuels, Ph.D., beloved brother, father, grandfather, uncle and friend.

 

Dr. Samuels was considered by his peers one of the finest psychologists in Northern California. He was a generous and warm person of stature who helped his fellow man at every turn.

 

A noted athlete, Tom served with distinction as a captain in the U.S. military.

 

As his older brother Bob wrote in a poem to him on his recent 76th birthday,

 

'Tom, you've had quite a career,

 

You're a great listener, that's clear;

 

But more than that, you're a teacher, too,

 

Docs like you are very few.'

 

More than being a clinician, Tom lit up every room he walked into, and found satisfaction in bringing joy to others.

 

A funeral service will be held on October 18, 2013 at 2:00pm at Skylawn Memorial Park on Hwy 92 and Skyline Boulevard, San Mateo.

 

Published by San Francisco Chronicle from Oct. 17 to Oct. 18, 2013.

Rita Louise Webster Parmer 1938-2017

RITA LOUISE WEBSTER PARMER

SEPTEMBER 20, 1938-

JULY 15, 2017

 

Rita Parmer, born Rita Louise Webster on September 20, 1938, in Houston, Texas, died Saturday, July 15, 2017 in Conover, NC.

 

She graduated from Lamar High School in Houston in 1956, attended Texas Christian University, then earned her RN in nursing from Methodist Hospital School of Nursing. Later, Rita returned to her studies to earn her license as a Nurse Practitioner.

 

Over the years, Rita worked in many hospitals, doctor’s offices, and health departments in Houston, New Orleans, New York, Dallas, Ft. Worth, Little Rock, Poyner, Goldsboro, and Morganton. After she retired, patients would often recognize her and thank her for kindness and caring ways.

 

Rita is survived by a daughter, Melanie Louise Fagan; son, Brian Webster Welch; sister, JoAnn and her husband Pat; niece, Jill; nephew, Brady; great-niece, great-nephews; as well as three step-daughters, Kelly, Karen, and Kathryn and their families.

 

Rita was preceded in death by her parents, Joseph Rock and Iris Mae Webster.

 

The family appreciates Pastor Marcus Ollis from Beth Eden Lutheran Church for his continuous support, care, and concern over and above his duties and also church members who were so kind while Rita was ill.

 

A Memorial Service will be held on Thursday, July 20, 2017 at 3:00 p.m.at Beth Eden Lutheran Church in Newton with Rev. Marcus Ollis officiating.

 

Burke Mortuary & Crematory in Newton is serving the Parmer family.

Carolyn McGhee Ginther 1937-2022

 

Mary Carolyn McGhee Ginther
October 24, 1937-January 6, 2022

Mary Carolyn McGhee Ginther passed away peacefully on January 6, 2022. She was born on October 24, 1937, in Houston, Texas, to George Lee McGhee and Jimmie Mae Bryan Triplett. As a native Houstonian, she attended Montrose Elementary, Lanier Junior High, where she was a cheerleader and the May Fete Queen, and Mirabeau B. Lamar High, where she graduated in 1955. She attended Baylor University and later graduated from the University of Houston with a Bachelor of Science in Home Economics.
Carolyn's grandchildren, and many others, lovingly referred to her as Mimi. Her grandchildren especially loved spending the night at her house and waking up to warm Shipley's donuts and kolaches. Carolyn adored her family get-togethers at El Patio and Pino's. She loved to share her memories from her summer spent in Europe when she was 18; her time in Istanbul with her mother, aunt, and sister; and her "girls' trips" to Cuernavaca with her best friends, Anne and Elvi. Carolyn briefly lived in Aberdeen, Scotland, which made visiting her daughter and family in France easier. Later in life, Carolyn enjoyed her trips to New England and Italy with her children and grandchildren. She loved lavender crème brûlée, lavender fields, and lavender decor. She also enjoyed hosting her friends for competitive rounds of Mahjong. Carolyn was a member of Pi Beta Phi at Baylor, the River Oaks Blossom Club, the Lady Washington Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution, the Houston Junior Forum, and Second Baptist Church.

Carolyn was preceded in death by her parents, sister, Martha McGhee Stephens, brother-in-law, Dr. Jerry Stephens, and nephew, John McGhee Stephens. She is survived by her children Fergus Mahony Ginther Jr., Lisa Ginther de Montaigu, and John Bryan Ginther and his wife Lisa O'Grady Ginther. She is also survived by her grandchildren Brittany Grimes, Blake Charman, Catherine Tassin de Montaigu Knop, Chase Ginther, Caroline Tassin de Montaigu, Mahon Ginther, Colin Ginther, Luke Ginther, and her great grandchildren Benjamin, Hannah, and Harrison Grimes, Adley and Kate Charman, and Lex Knop.
A memorial service will be held at 2:00 P.M. on Wednesday, January 12, 2022, at Second Baptist Church in the Hankamer Chapel. 6400 Woodway Drive, 77057. The family wishes to thank the staff of DaVita Galleria. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the Houston Pi Beta Phi Foundation. Pallbearers: Doak Leggett, Chase Ginther, Mahon Ginther, David Grimes, Kevin Charman, and Andrew Knop. Honorary Pallbearers: James Lee Bryan, Joe Bryan, Jerry Bryan, Bill Bryan, Killis Almond, and Donald Clarke.

 

Nancy Roberts (Gardiner) 1938-2021

Nancy Roberts Gardiner

July 28, 1938 - December 7, 2021

No obituary available, only the funeral home message of Nancy’s dates, but here is her husband’s which gives information about Nancy’s life:

Edward Gardiner Obituary

ROSEMONT — Edward Ernst Gardiner, 85, of Rosemont, died peacefully at home Dec. 26, 2015, surrounded by his children following a joyful Christmas with his family.

The beloved husband of Nancy Roberts Gardiner, devoted father of Edward T. and wife, Margaret, of Acton, Massachusetts, Lisa C. Davis and husband, Bob, Gulph Mills, and Whitney G. and wife, Amy, Wilson, Wyoming; loving grandfather of Edward A. and John "Jack" R. Gardiner and Elliot J. and Mason C. Davis; cherished brother of Margarete (Gray) G. and the late Murray Halton, Media; and warm-hearted cousin, uncle and friend to many.

Edward was born Aug. 11, 1930, the son of Edward August and Maria (Gerlach) Gardiner, Bryn Mawr. He attended the Haverford School, Haverford, and graduated from The Hill School in Pottstown in 1948; Washington and Lee University in Lexington, Virginia in 1952; and completed post-graduate programs in finance and accounting at Villanova University in Villanova. After completing his education, Edward served as 1st Lt. in the U.S. Marine Corps from 1952 to 1954.

Following a brief courtship, Edward married the love of his life, Nancy Roberts, at The Church of the Redeemer in Bryn Mawr on Sept. 19, 1959. Completely devoted to Nancy, they enjoyed 56 years of marriage while raising their children together.

Edward was the great-grandson of Christian Schmidt, who founded the Christian Schmidt Brewing Company of Philadelphia. Schmidt's was the largest brewery and the most popular beer in Philadelphia for many years. In 1955, Edward began his career at Schmidt's Brewery, ultimately rising to the position of Treasurer. While at Schmidt's, he met his best friend and future business partner, Franklin C. Markle, of Chester Springs.

In 1975, Edward and Frank took a bold business leap. They assumed the leadership of the Pepsi Cola Bottling Co. of Wilkes-Barre, where Edward was named president. Between 1976 and 1996, Edward and Frank built up the company to become one of Pepsi's most desirable franchises, while providing opportunity to their employees and supporting the community. During this time, he also earned a position on the Board of Directors for Laurel Packaging in Johnstown. Edward became known for his disciplined and fair business practices and for his profound respect for his workers. His employees asked him to serve as a Trustee of the Teamsters Union No. 401.

In 1996, following two successful decades with the company, Edward retired from the beverage industry. Never one to slow down, he then became vice president of Amtel Systems Corporation in Chester Springs. After his formal retirement in 2007, he continued to consult with individuals starting their own small businesses.

Edward was a master craftsman and woodworker. His home is furnished with a corner cabinet, low boy and numerous tables and chairs built by his artful hands. His garage was always the scene of the restoration and repair, and of one of several antique boats, his pride and joy being Wannsee, a 1941 Chris Craft 17' Deluxe named after his ancestral home in Germany. In his yard is a shed, dog house, tree house and fence he built. He delighted in teaching woodworking skills to his children, grandchildren and youngsters in the neighborhood.

A long time member of the Merion Golf Club and Merion Cricket Club, Edward played tennis for many years and maintained a lifelong passion for golf and perfecting his golf swing. He avidly supported many organizations, particularly the American Red Cross where his mother, Maria (Gerlach) Gardiner, had volunteered during World War II.

Donna Jane Carter Park 1938-2024

Donna Jane Carter Park

March 23, 1938-July 8, 2024

LONGVIEW -- It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Donna Park on July 8, 2024, at the age of 86. Donna was a beloved daughter, wife, mother, grandmother (Mimi), and friend, cherished for her kindness, generosity, and unwavering love for her family.

Donna grew up in Houston, Texas, where she developed a deep appreciation for community and family values. She graduated from Lamar High School in 1956, attended Texas Tech University briefly, where she met her future husband, Bill Park, and went on to graduate from the Methodist School of Nursing as a Registered Nurse in 1960. Bill and Donna shared a beautiful life together, married for 64 years. Together, they raised three sons, who became the focus of their lives, and embraced the addition of three daughters-in-law and eight grandchildren over the years, bringing a new focus as Mimi and Granddaddy.

Donna is survived by her husband Bill, their three sons and spouses, grandchildren, and great-grandson. Randy and Stephanie Park of San Antonio, Texas, and their daughters Allison and Samantha Park, and her fiancé Brandon Eagan of New Braunfels, Texas. Robby and Martha Park, and their sons Will and Dr. Gina Casini of Houston, Texas, Stewart and Mallory Park of Richardson, Texas, and Reid Park of Dallas, Texas. Lee and Traci Park of Cumming, Georgia, and their children Alex Park Buckley and Conner Buckley, and their son Worth Buckley, Cade and Lane Park of Dallas, Texas, and Mack Park of Cumming, Georgia. Donna is also survived by her nephew Kent Carter, his wife Lynn and their children Holly and Wes.

Donna leaves behind a legacy of love, compassion, and dedication to service that will continue to inspire her family and all who knew her. A lifelong Junior League member, she served on numerous committees, most notably as a founding member and recognized face of the Junior League's store, the Bargain Box. She also served as Director of Bethany Home and Assistant Director of First Christian Church Day Camp for over 15 years, a camp that continues to thrive today.

The visitation will be at Rader Funeral Home in Longview, TX on Thursday, July 11, 2024, from 6 PM to 8 PM.

A memorial service to celebrate Donna's life will be held on July 12, 2024, at First Christian Church of Longview, Texas, at 2:00 PM.

 

William Russell Bynum 1937-2024 Midterm

 

William Russell Bynum

1937-2024

 

William Russell Bynum, known affectionately as Russell by his friends and family, passed away peacefully on June 25, 2024 in Marshall, Texas, after a courageous battle with dementia and cancer. Born on June 30, 1937, in Houston, Texas, Russell was a man of integrity, adventure, and deep love for his family. Russell's life was marked by his dedication to service and his country. He achieved the rank of Captain as a B47 and B52 pilot in the Strategic Air Command of the United States Air Force, serving with distinction for eight years. His passion for flying continued as he joined Continental Airlines, where he worked for 18 years as a respected pilot, guiding countless passengers safely to their destinations. After his tenure at Continental Airlines, Russell, alongside a friend, purchased a large ranch in New Mexico and Arizona. Embracing the ranch life wholeheartedly, he found joy in the vast open spaces and the day-to-day challenges of ranching. However, the skies called him back, and he returned to aviation, flying for Saudia Air for seven years and Emirates for another four years. Upon retirement, Russell's entrepreneurial spirit led him and his beloved wife, Sue, to own and operate a bed and breakfast in Grosbeck. Their hospitality and warmth made the bed and breakfast a cherished stop for travelers. After seven fulfilling years, they moved to Marshall, Texas, where they enjoyed a quieter life surrounded by friends and family. Russell's interests were as vast as the skies he once navigated. He was a master storyteller, with tales of his flying career that captivated and enthralled listeners. His love for travel ensured that he made friends in many places, and he cherished each of these connections deeply. A man of faith, Russell served as a deacon with the Eastern Hills Church of Christ. His love for his church family was evident in his commitment and the way he lived his life, guided by his beliefs and the desire to serve others. Russell's legacy is carried on by his devoted wife of 64 years, Sue Bynum, his sons Jonathan Russell (Kristina) and William Glenn (Lori), his granddaughters Amanda, Alicia, April, Kristin, Brittany, and Ksenia, his grandson Alexander and six great-grandchildren. Each of them holds precious memories of a man who was not only interesting, handy, and generous but also a beacon of love and strength within the family. To know Russell was to know a life well-lived, a flight plan well-executed, and a journey that inspired all who had the good fortune to cross paths with him. His memory will soar in the hearts of those who loved him, as timeless and enduring as the skies he once roamed. Russell's life will be celebrated in a private ceremony where family and friends will gather to honor his remarkable journey. His story--a tapestry woven with courage, service, and unwavering love--will be cherished and retold for generations. As we bid farewell to William Russell Bynum, we take comfort in knowing that his legacy will continue to guide an inspire us, just as the North Star guides a ship at sea. Visitation will be held on Friday, June 28, 2024 from 5-7pm at The Cammack Family Sullivan Funeral Home. Memorial Service will be held on Monday, July 22, 2024 at 10:30am at The Cammack Family Sullivan Funeral Home with D. W. McLendon officiating. Online condolences may be offered at www.cammackfamily.com.

 

 

Dan Armstrong 1938-2021

 

Daniel Armstrong III

1938-2021

Austin - Daniel Lewis Armstrong III, was born in Houston, TX, on July 16, 1938, the only child of Daniel and Phebe Armstrong Jr., and passed away in Austin, TX on October 14, 2021 at the age of 83.

He was preceded in death by his eldest son, Stephen D. Armstrong in January 2021.

He is survived by his loving wife Helen M. Armstrong, married for 57 years; his son, David Nak Armstrong (Walter Marcantoni) of Austin, TX; his son Sean P. Armstrong (Andrea), his grandchildren Nick, Keira and William of Anchorage, AK; his daughter, Sarah C. Waltz (Keith), his grandchildren Luke and Jaxon of Spring, TX; his daughter-in-law Annette Armstrong, his grandchildren Katherine (Mitch Palermo) and Daniel (Marien) of San Antonio, TX.

Dan graduated from Lamar High School in Houston, TX in 1956 where he played violin in the school orchestra competing at the state level. Upon graduation he was accepted to the Honors Plan II Liberal Arts Program at The University of Texas at Austin where he received a B.A. in 1960, at the same time continuing his violin studies. After undergraduate school, Dan attended the University of Texas School of Law for one year before deciding to join the US Navy.

Dan received his Naval Officer commission in 1961 after attending the Navy Officer Candidate School in Newport, RI. He then completed 3 years of active duty stationed on the USS Coral Sea Aircraft Carrier, which took him to numerous international ports-of-call, including Sydney, Australia, where he met Helen. He continued serving in the US Naval Reserves and retired as a US Navy Commander.

After completing active duty, Dan and Helen married in Honolulu, HI on August 15, 1964, and they moved back to Austin where Dan graduated from the University of Texas School of Law. In 1967, Dan and Helen moved with their 1-year-old son, Stephen, to El Paso, Texas where they raised their family and lived for 36 years before eventually retiring in Austin in 2003. Dan built a successful legal practice in El Paso, primarily as a personal injury plaintiffs' litigator. Prior to private practice, Dan served as Assistant County Attorney for El Paso County and even tried his hand at politics, narrowly losing a bid for the U.S. House of Representatives for the 16th District of Texas in 1972.

Despite choosing a more "practical" professional career in law, Dan never gave up his passion for playing the violin. In the 1980s, he was a performing member and President of the El Paso Pro Musica chamber music organization. He later played in quartets with friends and during masses at Queen of Peace Catholic Church in El Paso and St. John Neumann Catholic Church in Austin. His violin scales and arpeggios could be heard on most nights at home. Dan enjoyed golfing in his free time and was also an avid reader and scholar of history, archaeology, and theology. He understood how important it was to pursue one's passions in life and similarly supported his children's passions and pursuits.

Dan was a loving, devoted, kind, forgiving, and generous father, husband, and friend, and a faithful member of the Catholic Church. He was loved by many and will be greatly missed.

Donations may be made in lieu of flowers to Hospice of Austin in Austin, TX or Society of Saint Vincent de Paul Diocesan Council of Austin. There will be a Celebration of Life Mass for him in Austin, TX at St. John Neumann Catholic Church at 5455 Bee Cave Rd, Austin, TX 78746 on December 21, 2021 at 11:00am, reception to follow if permitted.