Obituaries

VIVIAN MANRIQUEZ

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Vivian Manriquez, age 86, a beloved resident of Vidor, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, April 9th, 2024, at her residence. Born and raised in Vidor, she was a steadfast member of the community throughout her lifetime. In addition to her talents in the kitchen, Vivian had a green thumb and found solace in her garden, nurturing plants and flowers with care and dedication. Family was at the center of Vivian’s world, and she cherished every moment spent with her loved ones. A woman of faith, Vivian lived her life guided by Christian principles, embodying kindness, compassion, and generosity in all that she did. Vivian is survived by her loving children, Felicia Manriquez and Roger Manriquez, both of Vidor, TX; her sisters, Connie Carron of China, TX, and Martha Archibeque of Seguin, TX; 2 grandchildren, and 1 great-grandson.

ISIAH ARGALOUS GIBSON

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Isiah Argalous Gibson, a stalwart figure in the maritime industry and beloved resident of Vidor, passed away on Friday, April 12, 2024, at the age of 93. Born in Beaumont, Isiah embraced a life of hard work, adventure, and dedication to his family and community. Isiah was known for his warm-hearted nature and love of entertaining others. As a gifted storyteller, he captivated audiences with tales of his adventures at sea and shared his wisdom with all who would listen. He had a particular passion for teaching children the value of hard work and instilling in them a sense of responsibility and determination. Isiah’s legacy is carried on by his wife Margot Gibson and their children: Gary Parker, Ettie Thompson, Kelli VanAusdal, Robert Salazar, Shane Parham, along with his 17 grandchildren, 8 great-grandchildren, and 6 great-great-grandchildren.

TERRY GLYNN DRYDEN

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Terry Glynn Dryden, a cherished member of the Evadale community known for his musical talents and unwavering faith, passed away on Monday, April 8th, 2024, at Christus St. Elizabeth Hospital in Beaumont, TX. He was 64 years old. Born in Kountze, TX, Terry spent most of his life in Evadale, where he became an integral part of the community. He was known for his passion for music, particularly his skillful mastery of the bass guitar, which he played with devotion in his local church. His music touched the hearts of many and brought solace and joy to those around him. Terry is survived by his loving sister Rhonda Bland of Vidor, TX, and Shirley Jeanise of Vidor, TX, along with numerous nieces and nephews who adored him dearly.

ELLIS “E.C.” BLACK JR.

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Ellis “E.C.” Black Jr., age 95, passed away on Tuesday, April 9th, 2024, at Harbor Hospice House in Beaumont, Texas. He was a native of Nacogdoches, TX, and a beloved longtime resident of Vidor. E.C. Black had a diverse and fulfilling life, marked by his dedication to various endeavors. He retired as a respected member of local union #125 as an Iron Worker, leaving behind a legacy of hard work and craftsmanship. Additionally, he was a committed member of the Masonic community in Swift Hill, TX, for many years. E.C. proudly served his country in the U.S. Air Force during World War II, demonstrating courage and patriotism during his service. E.C. Black is survived by his loving children: Linda Maxwell of Vidor, TX; Kenneth Black of Kenefick, TX; and Darlene Gibbs of Vidor, TX. He is also remembered fondly by his 4 grandchildren, along with eleven great-grandchildren and five great-great-grandchildren.

KATHLEEN CLEVELAND

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Kathleen Cleveland, 77, a cherished resident of Vidor, passed away peacefully on Monday, April 15th, 2024, at her home. She was a beloved member of the Vidor community, having spent many years as a resident. Kathleen found solace and spiritual fulfillment as a devoted member of Rose City Baptist Church, where her presence brought comfort and joy to fellow parishioners. Kathleen’s talents extended to quilting, where she lovingly crafted beautiful quilts for her family and friends. Above all, Kathleen’s greatest joy in life was her family, especially her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She cherished every moment spent with them, creating cherished memories that will last a lifetime. Kathleen is survived by her children: Richard Cleveland Sr. of Vidor, TX; Melinda Champagne of Vidor, TX; Diane Akridge of Vidor, TX. She is also survived by her sister, Betty Morris of Nederland, TX, along with 17 grandchildren and 8 great-grandchildren.

SCOTT LEE HOLLADAY

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Scott Lee Holladay, aged 56, of Vidor, Texas, passed away unexpectedly on Monday, April 8th, 2024, in Dayton, TX. Born in Houston, Texas, he had been a cherished member of the Dayton community. Scott was known for his dedication as a construction worker, his love for fishing, and his role as a beloved uncle to numerous nephews and great-nieces. He is survived by his sister, Loretta “Macy” McBroom of Vidor, TX, as well as his adopted parent, Clarence Yarbrough, of Vidor, TX.

EVA MCCORMICK SMITH

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Eva McCormick Smith, 81, a beloved resident of Vidor, passed away on Sunday, April 7th, 2024, at Christus St. Elizabeth Hospital in Beaumont. Eva was a cherished member of the community, known for her unwavering dedication to her family and her faith. Above all else, Eva cherished spending time with her family, especially her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She was known for her family-oriented nature and her warm, welcoming presence. Eva’s love knew no bounds, and she treasured every moment spent with her loved ones. An adventurous soul, Eva had a passion for travel and often embarked on spontaneous trips, creating cherished memories along the way. Eva is survived by her three sons: Karl Wayne Smith of Spurger, Texas; John Eddie Smith of Hemphill, TX; and Gilbert Lee Smith of Vidor, TX. She is also survived by her sister Barbara Culp of Claremore, OK, as well as 8 grandchildren and 7 great grandchildren.

LARRY EDWARD BLAND

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Larry Edward Bland, 57, of Vidor, Texas, passed away on Sunday, April 7th, 2024, at Christus St. Elizabeth Hospital in Beaumont, Texas. Born and raised in Beaumont, Larry was a cherished member of the Vidor community throughout his life. Larry was known for his exceptional skills as a carpenter, bringing craftsmanship and dedication to every project he undertook. Beyond his professional talents, Larry had a passion for music and singing, often filling the air with his melodious tunes. He found great joy in firing up the BBQ grill, where he would whip up delicious meals for his loved ones. Larry leaves behind fond memories cherished by his family and friends. He is survived by his father, Ed Bland of Vidor, Texas, and his siblings: Marilyn Blankenship of Kountze, Texas; Debra Bland of Vidor, Texas; Terry Bland of Orangefield, Texas; Rachel Melissa Cahill of Washougal, Washington.

JAMES LAWRANCE FONTENOT

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James Lawrance Fontenot, aged 85, of Vidor, Texas, peacefully passed away on Sunday, April 7th, 2024, at Harbor Hospice House in Beaumont, Texas. Born in Crowley, Louisiana, James later became a cherished member of the Vidor community, where he resided for many years. James will be remembered for his commitment to his work, his country, and his family. His legacy lives on through the memories he created and the lives he touched. The family will have a memorial service on Thursday, April 11, 2024, at 10:00 AM at Memorial Funeral Home of Vidor. He is survived by his daughter, Robin Fontenot of Vidor, Texas; sister Judy Amanda Gertrude of Kaplan, Louisiana; and grandchildren: Kailey Delao of Vidor, Texas; Justin Coshman of Nederland, Texas; Everlie McGee of Vidor, Texas.

PATRICK GODEAUX

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It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Patrick Godeaux, aged 54, of Vidor, Texas. Patrick departed this life on Friday, April 5, 224, at Harbor Hospice House in Beaumont, surrounded by his loved ones. He was a cherished member of the Vidor community, known for his generous spirit and kind heart. Patrick leaves behind a legacy of love and compassion that will be cherished by all who knew him. He is survived by his devoted wife of 12 years, Sonya Godeaux of Vidor, Texas, and his children: Josh Godeaux of Vidor, Texas; Justin Godeaux of Vidor, Texas; Winter Ferraro of Atkins, South Carolina; Hayley Barnes of North Carolina; Cayden Godeaux of Vidor, Texas; Sherry Renshaw of Bridge City, Texas; Amber Pachuca of Orangefield, Texas; KJ Spinato of Vidor, Texas; and Andrea Spinato of Lumberton, Texas. Patrick is also survived by his cherished 15 grandchildren.