Memorial Funeral Home & Cremation

06/11/2026

Forrest Wayne McCormick

Forrest Wayne McCormick passed away peacefully at his home just outside of Hearne, Texas, on the afternoon of June 9, 2026. He was 92 years old.

Wayne was born in Hearne on July 13, 1933, to Coan Forest ("C.F.") McCormick and Johnnie Starkey McCormick. He was the eldest of two sons, and he and his younger brother, Melvin, shared a remarkably close bond throughout their lives.

Wayne graduated from Hearne High School in 1952 and soon afterward answered the call to serve his country in the United States Air Force. Upon completing his service, he was invited to re-enlist, a testament to the respect he earned during his time in the military. After returning home, he reconnected with family and friends and, on a double date in 1957, met the love of his life, Wilma Lee Smith. Their courtship was brief but certain, and they were married in January 1959.

Later that year, they welcomed their daughter, Sabrina, into the world. During those early years of marriage, Wayne and Wilma enjoyed square dancing and spending time with close friends and family. Their family grew again in 1970 with the birth of their son, Michael.

Wayne spent most of his career in the oil and gas industry, first working for Lone Star Gas and later for Texaco, where he remained for more than 30 years. Away from work, he found joy in taking his family to the lake, woodworking, and sharing afternoon coffee with his parents. Those who knew Wayne likely received one of his handmade creations—a piece of furniture, a trash bin, or a custom entrance sign. Many of his signs can still be seen along farm-to-market roads throughout the county. He was also mechanically gifted and could repair almost anything that needed attention.

One of Wayne's greatest pleasures was spending time outdoors with his family. During the warmer months, weekends often meant packing up and heading to a favorite lake or campground. Over time, those trips led to a permanent place on Lake Limestone, which became a gathering place for family and friends and, in many ways, served as the heart of countless family memories.

Wayne was preceded in death by his parents, Coan Forrest McCormick and Johnnie Starkey McCormick; his brother, Melvin McCormick; and his son, Michael McCormick.

He is survived by his loving wife of 67 years, Wilma McCormick; his daughter, Sabrina Saladino, and son-in-law, Vince Saladino; his grandchildren, Andrew Saladino and wife Brittany, Seth McCormick, and Lily McCormick; and his great-grandchildren, Ellie Saladino and Charlotte Saladino. He is also survived by his sister-in-law, Brenda McCormick; his nieces, especially Melinda, Melissa, Melanie, and Michelle; nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews, cousins, and many cherished friends.

View Forrest Wayne McCormick's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

05/28/2026

Carolyn J. Conn “Mimi”

Carolyn, our beloved wife, mother, Mimi, aunt, and friend, was called home by the Lord on Wednesday May 27, 2026 at the Franklin Nursing Home. Carolyn Juanita (Cawthon) Conn was born on December 7, 1938 in Childress, Texas, to Velma Rudene (Mullins) and Walter (Tead) Cooper Cawthon. She grew up in north Texas and also spent time attending school in California before returning to attend Childress High School where she was an A student. On August 12, 1955, she married the love of her life, Jerry Eugene Conn, Sr. Together they built a beautiful life, married almost 71 years, and were blessed with four sons: Jerry, Jr. “Gene” ~ Gary and wife, Lisa ~ Terry and wife, Margaret ~ Larry and wife, Sherrie.

Until October of 1971 Carolyn, Jerry, and family lived at Tell, Texas near Jerry’s parents, Merrell Herbert (MH) and Ruby Nell Conn. Carolyn was a homemaker and farmer’s wife to Jerry, a dry land cotton farmer like his dad. While caring for the boys at home, Carolyn got a reputation for breaking hoe handles killing rattlesnakes at the Groseclose Place in the early 1960’s. As a young wife Carolyn enjoyed the Tell Home Demonstration Club and socializing with other young mothers and numerous friends that she and Jerry met while growing up in the Childress area. Things took a dramatic turn in October of 1971 when Jerry and Carolyn made the tough decision to move their family 380 miles south to Hearne, Texas for Jerry to pursue irrigated cotton farming opportunities in Robertson County. Carolyn and Jerry made Hearne their home for the next 55 years. At their Valley Junction home on the Scamardo farm, Carolyn was known for hosting Friday night pizza while watching Dallas with the boys and sometimes their dates. Carolyn and Jerry provided a stable home for the family, and they enjoyed southern gospel music long before that genre was popularized by the Gaithers. She loved turning up Elvis, Loretta Lynn and later George Strait while working around the house, cooking a pot of her famous goulash, then yelling at all the men in her family to not forget to take off their muddy boots, and someone “TAKE OUT THE TRASH”. She was a multi-tasker and a go getter.

Carolyn dedicated many years to serving others including working in the insurance industry. Notably, from 1970 to 1984 she broke through the glass ceiling elevating from secretary to an award-winning insurance agent at Robertson County Farm Bureau. She continued her insurance career with Hill’s Insurance from 1984 until her retirement. Carolyn also had a deep faith and served as a Sunday School teacher at First Baptist Church where she and Jerry have been members since 1971.

Beginning in 1990, Carolyn dealt with a health issue, but she was a fighter and an overcomer, able to endure havoc induced in her body for over 35 years. Carolyn was also the emotional center of a growing family: Gary and Lisa, along with Larry and Sherrie, blessed Carolyn and Jerry with five treasured grandchildren: Brandon and wife, Emily ~ Kendall and husband, Justin Kleiber ~ Colton and wife, Kendle ~ Caleb and wife, Ellie ~ Cary Jo and husband, Drake Grigsby. Those wonderful grandchildren brought even more joy to her life through 13 beloved great-grandchildren; Payton, Colby, Kyle, Brinley, Elliot, Kambri, Brooks, Colter, Hudson, Brady, Haven, Chandler, and Harvey.

Carolyn is also survived by her sister-in-law, Rita Scott and husband, Ron Scott. Nephews; Ron Cawthon Jr., Kevin Weatherly, Aaron Scott & Nieces; Denee (Cawthon) Delich, Amber (Scott) Gentala, Audra (Scott) Spring and their precious families. She was preceded in death by her parents, her loving brother Ron Cawthon, former sister-in-Law Cheryl Cawthon, witty sister Fern Weatherly Pantoja, former DJ brother-in-law Dean Weatherly, nieces Kimberly (Weatherly) Benedict, Kris Weatherly, and Kandra (Weatherly) Petersen.

Carolyn would light up the room with her voice, laughter and enthusiastic expressions. She loved to accessorize, do crossword puzzles, read novels, watch a good show, and was a QVC devotee. She also loved rocking babies, singing lullabies, having ice cream cones with her great grandchildren, and keeping up with family via social media. Her legacy of love, strength, and family devotion will continue through the generations she cherished so deeply.

Family will receive guests from 10 am until 11 am on Saturday, June 13, 2026 at First Baptist Church, Hearne, Texas with the memorial service following at 11 am, Pastor James Hooper officiating.

Donations can be made to First Baptist Church, Hearne Texas (www.fbchearne.org)

The family would like to express our appreciation to all of the caregivers that provided loving care and companionship for Carolyn, especially Crystal Garza and the dedicated staff at the Franklin Nursing Home and her long time cardiologist Dr. Marcel Lechin.

View Carolyn J. Conn “Mimi”'s obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

05/12/2026

Anita Lavon Scarpinato

Anita Lavon Gray Scarpinato, beloved wife, sister, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and faithful servant of Christ, passed peacefully into the arms of her Lord, after a sudden and brief battle with brain cancer, at the age of 83.

Lavon was born on January 18, 1943, in Stamford, Texas, to Elsie Mae Meadors and Marshall Otis Merryman of the Camp Creek/New Baden area. She grew up in the Franklin community, where her warmth, work ethic, and joyful spirit became evident early in life. While working as a waitress at a local diner in Franklin during high school, she met the love of her life, Theodore Ashborn “Ted” Gray. The two were married on September 5, 1960, and together built a beautiful life centered around faith, family, love of travel and hard work.

Lavon and Ted raised two sons: Theodore Franklin “Frank” Gray and Timothy Ashborn Gray. Together they built numerous successful businesses through the years, including pipeline welding operations, mobile home frame construction, and Gray’s RV Center. Their partnership in life and business continued until Ted’s passing on January 11, 1994, following a courageous 10-year battle with cancer.

In 1995, Lavon was blessed with a second great love when she married Pete Scarpinato on June 17. Together they spent more than 30 wonderful years blending their families and creating cherished memories with their 4 sons, 10 grandchildren, 7 great-grandchildren and 2 great-great grandchildren.

Lavon was known for her kindness, strength, and unwavering positivity. She loved deeply and fiercely, especially when it came to her family. She possessed a sharp accounting mind and remarkable attention to detail, continuing to work as a dedicated bookkeeper for Cunningham Real Estate until March 26 of this year.

Above all else, Lavon was a devoted Christian and faithful member of First Baptist Church in Hearne. She treasured her Sunday school class, loved attending church, and never missed an opportunity to share her joy for life and her love for Jesus with those around her. She made birthdays, holidays, and ordinary days feel special through her generosity, warmth, and genuine care for others.

Her light, love, and joyful spirit touched countless lives. Though she will be deeply missed, the legacy of faith, love, strength, and family she leaves behind will live on for generations.

She is preceded in death by her husband, Theodore Ashborn Gray and her parents Marshall Otis and Elsie Mae Merryman. She is survived by her husband Pete J. Scarpinato, her sons Frank and wife Karen Gray of Gause. Her son Tim Gray of Hearne, bonus daughter Brenda Myers and Randy of Tucson, AZ, her stepsons Joe David Scarpinato and Carey of Franklin and Scott Scarpinato and Brooke of Hearne. Her sisters Glenda Thompson of Hearne Dean Catalina of Hearne and brother Garry Merryman of Hearne. Grandchildren Jamie Gibbons of Penrose, CO, Lauren Johnson and Travis of Deanville, Lyndsie Willingham and Jacob of Milano, Nate Gray and Brianna of Gause, Nick Scarpinato, Charlie Scarpinato, Will Scarpinato and Aaryelah Scarpinato of Franklin, Abigail Ann and Anna Abigail Scarpinato of Hearne, Great grandchildren Cheyanne Anthony and Michael of Colorado Springs, CO, Alexa Faith and Madeline Grace Johnson, Garrett Charles and RaeLyn Lavon Willingham, Lyla Jo and Theodore Harlin Gray. Great-Great grandchildren Kinsley and Kaiden Anthony. She dearly loved all her nieces, nephews, extended family and friends –

She was “NANA” to everyone.

View Anita Lavon Scarpinato's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

05/06/2026

Dr. Casey Leighton Thomas, DVM

Dr. Casey Leighton Thomas, DVM, born August 7, 1955, to William and Marjorie Thomas, passed away on April 24, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family.

Casey was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and man of faith whose life was defined by love, service, and compassion for both animals and others. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Joyce Thomas, whom he married on June 11, 1982. Casey adored Joyce and the life they built together, and after her passing, he continued to live with purpose and love, especially for his family.

He is survived by his daughter, Natalie Rasco (maiden name Thomas), and his son-in-law, Bryce Rasco, whose love, devotion, and care meant so much to Casey and his family. Casey was a proud and deeply devoted “Pa” to his grandchildren—Grayson, Aubree, Madelyn, and Olivia (Libby)—who meant the world to him and brought him immense joy.

Casey dedicated over three decades of his life to veterinary medicine, practicing in Junction City, Kansas, from 1984 to 2014 as the owner of Flint Hills Veterinary Hospital, which he and his wife Joyce proudly ran together. He was exceptional at what he did and had a genuine love for animals of all kinds. Always eager to learn, Casey expanded his care to include exotic animals and even served the animals at the Milford Nature Center. His passion for wildlife and animals left a legacy, especially in his grandson Grayson, whom he taught to fish, identify snakes, and appreciate the natural world.

He was deeply involved in his community, including his work with Fort Riley, and faithfully served as a deacon at First Christian Church in Junction City, Kansas. His faith in Jesus was a steady and guiding presence in his life.

Casey also valued health and discipline. He loved to exercise and took pride in staying physically fit throughout his life—though he never outgrew his well-known sweet tooth. He will also be remembered for his quick wit, playful sense of humor, and the practical jokes he loved playing on family and friends.

In 2014, Casey and Joyce moved to Texas to be closer to their daughter and her family. Those years spent near his grandchildren were among his most cherished.

Casey bravely battled Parkinson’s disease for many years, facing it with strength, resilience, and a positive spirit. He remained committed to his health and found encouragement and friendship through Rock Steady Boxing, where he built meaningful relationships and a strong support system.

Casey will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him. His family finds comfort in knowing he is now in heaven, reunited with the love of his life and with Jesus. His legacy lives on in the lives he touched, the family he cherished, and the love he gave so freely.

A small celebration of life for close family and friends will be held on May 12, 2026. The family sincerely appreciates the love, prayers, and condolences of all who knew and loved Casey. Those wishing to contact the family, share memories, or send condolences may do so by email at [email protected] or through Memorial Funeral Home & Crematory, 802 S Market St., Hearne, TX 77859. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Zoi’s Animal Rescue, a dog rescue in Navasota, or to Rock Steady Boxing in College Station in his honor.

View Dr. Casey Leighton Thomas, DVM's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

04/24/2026

Uvaldo "Rudy" Castilleja

Uvaldo "Rudy" Castilleja was born on October 22, 1952, to Alfonso Sr. and Chavela Castilleja of Calvert, Texas. He married the love of his life, Rose Marie Ruiz Castilleja in 1973, where they resided for 49 years in Hearne, Texas.

Survivors include:

Sons: Michael Castilleja Sr. (O'Breka) of Bryan, David Castilleja Sr. of College Station, and Alfonso "Ponch" Castilleja (Savannah) of Cameron

Daughters: Theresa Castilleja of Hearne, and Christina Castilleja of Hearne

His Brothers: Robert Castilleja Sr. (Mary) of Waco, and Joe Castilleja (Mary) of Nacogdoches

His sister: Isabel Perez of Waco

His in-laws: Martha Castilleja (Alfonso Jr.), Sally Castilleja (Paul); Georgia and Ronnie Jutson, Mary Cortez (Johnny), John and Anna Ruiz, Emilia Ruiz (Jimmy), and Stephen and Diana Ruiz

17 grandkids, 25 great grandkids, 2 on the way and numerous nieces and nephews.

He is preceded in death by:

His wife and love of his life: Rose Marie Ruiz Castilleja

His parents: Alfonso Sr. and Chavela Castilleja

His in-laws: George and Josephine Ruiz

His brothers: Alfonso Castilleja Jr., Paul Castilleja, and Enrique Castilleja

His sisters: Gloria Gonzales, Janie Ramirez, and Emma Vigil

Brother-in-law: Carlos Perez, Jesse Ramirez, Robert Gonzales, Jimmy G. Ruiz, Jimmy Ruiz, and Johnny Cortez

View Uvaldo "Rudy" Castilleja's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

04/22/2026

Claudia Ann Ramsay

Claudia Ann McCollum Ramsay, 94, passed into the presence of her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ on Wednesday, April 22, 2026.

Claudia was born on September 20, 1931, in Hearne, Texas to O.H. and Aba (McMordie) McCollum. She graduated from Hearne High School and then went on to earn an education degree at TCU. While at TCU she met a handsome football player named Jack Ramsay from Henderson, Texas and they married on August 24, 1952, just before their senior year. After a year in Odessa, Texas and Jack’s two-year tour of duty in the army, Claudia and Jack returned to Hearne to join the family ice business with Claudia’s father.

In 1970, Claudia and Jack moved with their two children, Randy and Cathy to Bryan. In 1974, Claudia accepted Jesus Christ as her Lord and Savior. One of the happiest memories for their family was being baptized as a family at Grace Bible Church. Claudia was instrumental in organizing the women’s ministry at Grace and over the years mentored many young women in Bible studies in her home. She loved to see women gathering to study God’s word. Claudia was the administrator and children’s chairman of the first Bible Study Fellowship in Bryan.

When her children started college, she shifted her ministry focus as well. As a couple they began a donut and coffee ministry to the college students at Grace feeding hundreds of hungry Aggie's every Sunday morning! She loved the college ministry and opened her home to many students. She and Jack also generously hosted many church and college class events at their Roberston county ranch, Bucksnort.

Her greatest joy came from time with her grandchildren. Rachel Ann Smith, Hannah Catherine Smith and Ramsay Connor Smith. They called her Gam and she was happiest when she was in their presence.

She is survived by her husband of 74 years, Jack Kenneth Ramsay, her daughter Cathy Smith and husband Kevin Smith of College Station, their children, Rachel, Hannah and Ramsay and his wife Kellee.

Funeral service will be at 1:30 p.m. on Saturday, April 25, 2026, Grace Bible Church, 700 Anderson, College Station, TX 77840.

Graveside service to follow at 3:15 p.m. at New Norwood Cemetery on Norwood Lane in Hearne, TX.

Jack will only attend the graveside service.

View Claudia Ann Ramsay's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

04/16/2026

Timothy Jason Hawkins

Timothy Jason Hawkins, known lovingly as Jason or Tim, passed away on April 11, 2026, at the age of 33.

Jason was born on June 14, 1992, in Katy, Texas, and spent most of his young life in Houston and Waller, Texas. He carried with him a quiet strength and a thoughtful presence that those closest to him will always remember. Intelligent, creative, independent, and deeply passionate, Jason lived life in a way that was true to who he was—steady, intentional, and sincere.

Jason proudly served his country in the United States Army from 2010 to 2014 as an airborne infantry mortarman with 3rd Squadron, 73rd Cavalry Regiment, 1st Brigade Combat Team, 82nd Airborne Division. He completed One Station Unit Training (OSUT) and Airborne School at Fort Benning and deployed with his unit from 2012 to 2013, serving with dedication, discipline, and honor alongside his fellow paratroopers. Throughout his military career, he demonstrated unwavering commitment, courage, and professionalism. His service earned him the Afghanistan Campaign Medal with two campaign stars, the National Defense Service Medal, the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, the Army Service Ribbon, and the NATO Medal. His commitment to excellence was further recognized by the Combat Infantryman Badge and the Parachutist Badge, reflecting both his bravery in active operations and his specialized training. His service stands as a lasting testament to his strength of character and devotion to protecting others.

He graduated from Texas A&M University, magna cm laude, with a Bachelor of Science degree in Electrical Systems Engineering Technology, Class of 2021, and went on to work as a melt shop electrician at Nucor in Jewett, Texas. Jason took pride in his work and approached it with the same dedication and focus he brought to everything he did.

Outside of work, Jason found peace and happiness in the outdoors. Hunting and fishing were among his favorite pastimes, offering him both solitude and connection with nature. He also loved building things and exploring computer science, always drawn to how things worked and how they could be made better.

One of the most important parts of Jason’s life was his bond with his dog, IO. Their companionship brought him comfort, loyalty, and joy.

Jason is survived by his mother, Lynn Hawkins; his father, Gregg Hawkins, and stepmother, Jeannie Hawkins; his grandparents, Paula Hawkins, and Jean and Jerry Richmond; his sister, Amanda Hager, and husband, Chris, and their children, Kayson, Bryson, and Addyson; his brothers, Trenton Hawkins, and wife, Natalie, and their children, Landon, Grace, Savannah, Charlotte, Micah, and Luke, and Daniel Hawkins, and wife, Hannah, and their children, Sawyer, Liam, and Emery; and his stepsister, Chelsea Gibbs, and husband, Mason, and their children, Parker and Emma.

He is also survived by his uncles and aunts, Randy Hawkins and Terri Hawkins; Paul Hawkins and wife, Leslie; and Robert Ives and wife, Belinda; as well as his aunt Belinda, Keith, and many beloved cousins, including Brooke, Grant, Paige, Austin, Ethan, Alissa, Ryan, and Randy.

He is also survived by many other loving family members and dear friends who will miss him greatly.

A visitation will be held on April 21, 2026, at 10:00 a.m., followed by a service at 11:00 a.m. at First Baptist Church Hearne.

Jason will be remembered for his quiet strength, his thoughtful nature, and the love he carried in his own steady way. Though he was not always loud with his feelings, his presence was deeply felt by those who knew him best.

“The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.”

Lamentations 3:22–23

04/16/2026

Jerry Mack Hoyt

It is with a heavy heart that we share the news that Pastor Jerry Mack Hoyt went to be with the Lord on April 10, 2026.

Born July 8, 1941, to Mack William Hoyt and Mary Elizabeth Hughes in Brazos County, Texas.

He attended Elementary through High School in Hearne, Texas.

After graduation from Hearne High School, Jerry joined the Army and became a X-ray technician.

In 1971, he opened Sempco X-ray, which specialized in diagnostic imaging sales, repair and maintenance.

Jerry answered his true calling in 2001, alongside his wife, Jan, they founded Cowboys for Jesus in a one-room barn. He had a profound love for riding horses and a deep passion for winning souls for Jesus, dedicating his life to both with great purpose.

He was preceded in death by both parents, and wife Janice.

Jerry is survived by wife Kay Hoyt; son Stephen Hoyt and wife Carolyn; son Scott Hoyt and wife Marcy; son Charles Hoyt and wife Natalie; Jerry's sister Elizabeth Eberle. He is also survived by many grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces and nephews.

Ride on Pastor Jerry.

Well done, good and faithful servant. Matthew 25:23

View Jerry Mack Hoyt's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

04/05/2026

Happy Resurrection Day! HE is risen!

03/28/2026

Dennis Cook

Dennis Cook, 71, of Calvert, Texas, passed away on March 26, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family.

Dennis was born on January 29, 1955, in Hearne, Texas. He spent much of his life working as a construction worker and climbing telephone poles, a job that reflected his strong work ethic and determination. In 1989, Dennis suffered a life-altering fall from a telephone pole that resulted in a broken back and left him disabled. Despite this, he continued to stay active in his community by doing odd and end jobs, always willing to lend a helping hand to anyone in need.

Dennis was well known for his caring nature and big heart. He was the kind of man who would check on you constantly—sometimes to the point of driving you a little crazy—but it always came from a place of love. He was a worrier by nature, always wanting to make sure those he loved were safe and okay.

Dennis was a believer in God and grew especially close to the Lord over the past few years, finding strength and peace in his faith. Psalm 91 was his favorite Bible passage and brought him great comfort.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Mary Helen Cook and A.B. Cook; his brother, Bobby “Bud” Cook; his son, Kelly Cook; and his wife, Debra Cook.

He is survived by his sister, Anita Lee; his sister and brother-in-law, Rita and Wayne Barker; his son, Dennis Garrett; his stepson, Justin Staley and wife Nicole; his stepdaughter, Temperance Johnson; his grandchildren, Kaden and Tori Johnson, Audrie Hollis, and Camryn Morphis; his great-grandchildren, Paxton Cooper, Walker Hollis, and Silas Morphis. He also leaves behind numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, and nephews, including his niece, Neda Jafari, along with many friends who will miss him dearly.

Dennis will be remembered for his kindness, his willingness to help others, and the deep love he had for his family.

View Dennis Cook's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.