Obituaries

VICKIE DIANNE (FOWLER) SELLERS

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Vickie Dianne (Fowler) Sellers, 64, passed away on April 19, 2024, in Webster, TX. Vickie was born, November 20, 1959, to Miriam Amandy (Powell) Fowler and John Thomas Fowler. Vickie spent her childhood in Beaumont, TX graduating from French High School in Beaumont in 1978. She worked in the healthcare field and resided in Beaumont, TX until moving to Houston around 1999. Vickie was the life of the party and enjoyed spending time with others and having a good time. Left to cherish her memory include her boyfriend, Kenneth Sims of Deer Park, TX, children; Brandon Gray, of Rosharon, TX, Dena Tullier, of Vidor, TX. 5 grandchildren, one great-grandson, sister, Pamela Lynn Fowler Tucker of Norman, Oklahoma, and numerous nieces and nephews and great nieces and nephews and loved ones.

WANDA SUE SANDERS

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Wanda Sue Sanders, 78, a lifelong resident of Vidor, passed away on Friday, April 19th, 2024, at Christus St. Elizabeth Hospital in Beaumont. She was deeply loved by her family and community. Wanda was an active member of Vidor Church of Christ, where her faith was an integral part of her life. As a dedicated homemaker, she found joy in caring for her family and home. Her beloved dog, Cutter, brought her immense happiness and companionship throughout the years. Wanda had a passion for crafting and gardening, where she poured her creativity and love into every project. She had a kind and generous heart, always willing to lend a helping hand and brighten someone’s day with her infectious smile. She is survived by her daughter, Julie Williams of Vidor, TX, as well as bonus sons Mark Thompson of Vidor, TX, and David Kelly of Cave City, AR. Wanda also leaves behind cherished grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and a host of relatives and friends.

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.