Obituaries

Elias Vasquez, Sr

t is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Elias Vasquez, Sr. on January 27, 2025.

Born on August 11, 1941, in Dallas, Texas, Elias lived a life full of love, dedication and hard work.

Elias is survived by his beloved wife of 64 years, Cecilia (Escamilla) Vasquez, of Ferris, Texas, and their children: Elias Vasquez, Jr., Angel Vasquez and wife Sylvia, Mario Vasquez and wife LaVonna, and Christopher Vasquez.

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Leopoldo R. Montemayor

Leopoldo R. Montemayor, lovingly known as Polo, passed away on January 26, 2025, surrounded by his devoted family. Whether he was known as Dad, Tío Polo, or Grandpa, he lived life with an unmatched zest for fun and joy. His vibrant spirit and unique presence touched everyone around him in ways that can never be replicated. He will be deeply missed, but his memory will always serve as a reminder to live life with laughter, love, and high spirits. Polo’s legacy of joy will continue to inspire all who knew him.

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Bill Jack McLelland

Bill McLelland, 82, passed away surrounded by love and family, leaving behind a life filled with cherished memories and a legacy of kindness, dedication, and resilience. Born and raised in Ennis, Texas, Bill graduated from Ennis High School in 1961. His passion for football and education led him to Texas Tech University, where he proudly played for the Red Raiders and graduated in 1969.

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Sarah Jane Garrison (Cox)

Sarah Jane Garrison (Cox), also known as “Aunt SaSa” to her family, was born at home in Cunningham, Texas, on June 25, 1940. Sarah went to be with the Lord on December 4, 2024, at the age of 84. She was a beloved wife and mother preceded in death by her husband James “Jim” McAfee. After graduating from Daingerfield High School in 1958, she attended beauty school, worked at the Ennis Sewing Factory, Texas Instruments and Haggard Slacks. She was a faithful member of Ladies Auxiliary VFW in Garland. After moving to Ennis, she became a member of Calvary Baptist Church. Sarah wore many hats, a jack of all trades, with never a dull moment. Throughout her life, she held an unwavering faith in God, which she shared with those who surrounded her. She held a strong conviction in Jesus and was a steadfast follower.

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Genevieve Poage Holmes

Genevieve Poage Holmes passed away peacefully at home in Ennis, Texas on December 13, 2024. She was born October 4, 1939, to Walton Poage and Helen Elrod Poage in San Angelo, Texas. She was raised in the ranching and rodeo culture of West Texas and was very proud of her heritage. Genevieve graduated from Rankin High School and Texas Tech University. Following her education, Genevieve taught school in Albuquerque, New Mexico and Ozona, Sanderson, Ennis and Palmer, Texas. She was loved by generations of students and followed the lives of many of them.

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Sarah Jane Garrison (Cox)

Sarah Jane Garrison (Cox) went to be with the Lord on December 4, 2024, at the age of 84.

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Louis Wayne Jackson

Louis Wayne Jackson, a cherished husband, father, grandfather, and valued community member, passed away on December 10, 2024, in Edmond, Oklahoma. He was born on June 29, 1939, in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. The son of Lewis Woodson “L.W” Jackson and Vernice Marie Holland, Wayne graduated from Duncan High School and went on to attend Cameron University and Cooke County College where he studied Industrial Arts and Engineering.

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John J. (Jack) Andrews

John J. Andrews (Jack) passed away on October 27, 2024 in Hot Springs, AR. Born to Polish immigrants, John J. and Zanie (Gawrych) Andrews in Stuebenville, OH on September 9, 1942, Jack lovingly devoted his life to providing for his family. He and his wife, Carol (Arend) Andrews were married on April 15, 1967. Jack worked many years at Weirton Steel before relocating to Ft. Myers, FL and then to Ennis, TX. He ultimately retired from Elk Corp. after more than 20 years there. He and Carol retired to Hot Springs, AR where they enjoyed the outdoors, including boating, fishing, and taking in nature. But, his favorite hobby was spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren.