Alumni News from near and far

By Vernon Pate ’50

The 150th year Anniversary celebration at TSD

June 8-10, 2006 was a great success. A big crowd gathered on the TSD campus. Everyone enjoyed meeting new and old friends as most came from different states and out of town.

Mrs. Lennie Benefield Martos ‘41 of Houston and her two daughters flew to Alaska on the first week of June. They rode the tram way and all enjoyed a boat cruise. Then they visited TSD and noticed a change since many years ago.

Joy Gibson ‘56 of Cave Springs, Georgia retired from teaching at the Georgia School for the Deaf in 1996. She returned to her alma mater to help support the 150th year anniversary celebration. It was a great honor to see her.

Charlene Griones Mullenix ‘52 of California attended the graduation exercise of her granddaughter at TSD. Her daughter, Patricia of Pflugerville, TX all gathered for a TSD reunion.

Rolley Kolbye ‘67 if Castro Valley, California retired from a draftsman job after many years. He toured the TSD campus meeting old friends at the celebration.

Jose E. Montello ‘50 retired from printing service after 24 years. He resides in Corpus Christi, TX.

Edward and Rosie Jenkins Hoffman, both ‘56 of Tyler, TX along with their daughter visited around TSD. They all had a florist business at Grand Prairie after many years their daughter purchased an Arabian horse which was shipped from Saudi Arabia. It was expensive, they said. Wow!

Melvia Miller Nomeland ‘56 and her husband from Washington, D.C. surprised everyone at TSD. They both retired from administrative jobs which Dr. Nomeland was employed at Gallaudet University for many years.

Kay Youngblood Harvard ‘72 and Russell Harvard ‘99 surprised everyone during the celebration. Kay is employed as a houseparent at the Deaf school in Alaska. Russell is student at Gallaudet University. He has been taking movie dramas "There is Blood" at Hollywood Studio this summer. It will be released after 2007. Any of us will want to see it. Russell had a short visit with his dad Henry Harvard ‘69 who is part of the TSD residential staff for 20 years before he flew back to Washington D.C.

Mildred Alexander Williamson ‘33 was honored by TSDAA during the 150th Anniversary celebration. She was the oldest Deaf lady living. She is 93 years old. She is still active and alert. She enjoyed all the activities at homecoming. She’s proud of her three Deaf children John ‘62, Key Nunn ‘58 and Rodney ‘78. Welcome Mildred!

Arnold Urban ‘57 of Tucson, Arizona retired from U.S. Post Office after 30 years. He is very active in helping with Sorenson VRS, also he and his wife made trips to different countries. He loves to hear about TSD news.

Dorian Yank ‘94 was hired as a TSD High School English teacher, also is helping coach football after school. He was a TSD football player under Andy Boneyo. He was employed at the state of Virginia as an ASL instructor. Welcome back Dorian.

Wesley Street ‘89 and his wife moved to Pflugerville, TX from Houston, TX recently. He secured employment as a night resident educator at TSD. They have a four years old boy who is enrolled at TSD.

Eva Nell Montgomery ‘53 and John Rooch surprised everyone at the 150th anniversary celebration after she left TSD in 1953. She was living in Laredo at the time of school. She retired from Post Office in 1996. Her husband John was product of Michigan School for the Deaf and also retired from the Post Office. They have 2 grown sons and 6 grandchildren. Eva Nell was pupil of Mrs. Markie Eastman at TSD.

Reuben McGill ‘47 of Amarillo was a guest of Don Sewell ‘50 at the La Vista Community in San Marcos. They toured around TSD campus. Reuben said that there was lots of changes and enjoyed the reunion.

TSD Homecoming was the spotlight at TSD on October 6 & 7, 2006. A drama was shown at R.L. Davis auditorium for two nights under the direction of Raymond and Cynthia Cunningham Piper. She is a teacher of TSD kindergartners teacher. Raymond is a retired TSD teacher and coach. A B-B-Q dinner and picnic was held at the Austin Deaf Club. Iris Sandell, President of TSDAA presented the Hall of Fame award to: Texanna Faulk Conn, founder of Travis County Services for the Deaf and interpreters were honored for the community. James ‘48 and Laverne Carison Fair ‘52, Vernon Pate’ 50 and Anita Uregate Dalla ‘39, were all honored for community. Franna Corley Camenisch ‘65 was for community, sports and education. Groon Farquah ‘08 was honored for education and he was a member of the Missouri School for the Deaf faculty and staff. He passed away in 1971. The Gallaudet University Museum attracted everyone Friday and Saturday evening. They said that the picture scene were very interesting which Franna Camenisch and other committee members worked hard to make it successful.

A TSDAA meeting was held October 7, 2006 from 9:30 to noon. Iris Sandell made several announcements along with business. New officers were elected: Tom Becker’ 77 – President, Janice Aronson ‘72 – Vice President. Gina Worcheshi Kuehne– Secretary, John Mills ‘63 – Treasurer. The Board members listed as: Dorothy Floyd ‘59 of Midland, representing the western part of Texas, Kent Kennedy of Austin representing Austin and central and south part of Texas. Cathy White Simerka of Houston representing the eastern part of the state. The president of TSDAA will appoint an editor for FLASHBACK and A Hall of fame chairperson. Keith Sibley ‘70 of McAllen was here to give good advice at the meeting. He is an ASL teacher at the University of Texas. His wife, Paula is a product of Washington School for the Deaf. She still teaches in a mainstreaming program.

Allan Bubeck and his wife Lorena Kee Bubeck ‘42 of Dallas joined with us and made good suggestions which were needed for the improvement of TSDAA.

Willie ‘44 and Evelyn Fitch Floerke ‘46 of Taft were happily seen by everyone at homecoming as they were unable to attend the 150th anniversary celebration in spite of being hospitalized. He was rushed to the hospital at that time. He looked fine. Billy ‘54 and Jeanette Fitch Turslan ‘54 of Dallas joined them.

Elizabeth Barnett Goodman ‘45 of Bastrop informed us at homecoming that her oldest son, Jimmy Guiterrey was rushed to the hospital in an emergency due to blood clots, cancer and stroke on October 6th.

Bonnie Nash Tippett ‘52 of Nederland was wed to Earl Utzman ‘52 of Bakersfield, California by the Justice of Peace in Beaumont on October 4, 2006. Earl retired as a printer after 54 years of service about 10 years ago. Congratulations to both of them.

Garrett Scott ‘03 enrolled at the Austin Community College as he wants to major in graphic arts. He earned a certificate at SWICD in the spring of 2006.

I bumped into two sisters of Dallas: Margie Judd Coggins-Peckham ‘63 and Susan Judd ‘72 at the TSD museum. Margie is employed at AT&T as an office clerk and proudly said that she has 6 grandchildren. Susan stays with DARS in Irving doing clerical work. She has 4 grandchildren.

Very interesting! Larry Gillette ‘76 of San Angelo escorted Paula Rose of Corsicana to the museum to get acquainted with Franna Camelish ‘65. Paula is employed as a teacher aide of a mainstreamed program for 19 years. She graduated from High School in Corsicana in 1987. She told us that her great-greatgrandfather, Joseph Carmach was the 11th student at TSD when it first stated in 1857. Her greatgreat grandmother Mary Elizabeth Wisdom was the 54th student to enroll in TSD in 1886. Larry Gillette is still with the U.S. Post Office in San Angelo and he was a member of the TSD governing board for several years.

It was great to meet Mrs. Shelly Sallop at the museum. She was busy taking care of her grandchildren. She used to live on the TSD campus. Now she resides in the Northern part of Austin. It was a pleasant surprise to see her.

Ricardo Gonzales ‘66 of Corpus Christi accompanied Alice Young, Brandon Deleon ‘99 of Beeville and two other ladies to TSD early Saturday morning to attend TSDAA meeting and homecoming. Alice was remembered by TSD students as a cafeteria worker a few years ago. Brandon is employed at Walmart since graduation.

Melvin and Ruby Holder Rueffer ‘66 of Waco had a guest, Wayne Habison ‘66 of Idaho that they had not other for 40 years. They all went to the TSD homecoming for the 1966 class reunion which was the 40th year anniversary reunion.

Also, the 1966 class had their 40th year reunion, Pat and Roseline Wilson Stucky of Beaumont attended the reunion. Pat was a product of North Carolina School for the Deaf. They have two grown daughters. Rosaline is with the U.S. Post Office for 12 years. She has a total of 30 years of experience.

Sara Wickham Havens ‘70 of Greenville attended the TSD homecoming. It happened that she had car trouble and got a the police to help her. They towed her car to Georgetown for mechanic work. Her neighbor, Tracey and Doris Woods of Austin picked her up and she spent the weekend with them.

Two daughters accompanied their mother, Ima Jean Ledbetter Martin ‘46 to the TSD homecoming and toured TSD campus and museum. They are still residents of San Antonio. They were very respectful to their mother. They also took her to the 150th anniversary celebration.

Wade Scott ‘84 of Bastrop was at the ADC dinner. He said he enjoyed reading the news about the Deaf alumni. He has been employed at UPS for many years.

John Donimik ‘80 and Geoffrey Chandler ‘89 are employed there as well.

Mary Harvard Hamlin ‘68 visited her friends in Seattle, Washington. She attended the Timber fest a few weeks ago.

Barbara Becker Carter ‘72 is assigned to cottage 564 at TSD where she is a resident educator for the senior class girls.

Jerry Mikus ‘43 of Grand Prairie was always seen at every TSD activity for years. He never missed one of them even at reunions.

Jackie Ragodale Pace ‘50 looked great while attending the homecoming B-B-Q dinner. She was hospitalized for a few days after she fell down and hurt her hip a few months ago.

Mildred Alexander Williamson ‘33 was given a nice TSD shirt by Ronnie Taylor at the B-B-Q dinner and Hall of Fame reception. It was a big honor to her as the oldest resident who is still living.

Finice Taylor ‘49 of Lubbock and cousin, Esther Morris, wife of J.C. Morris ‘46 enjoyed all the activities during homecoming. His wife, Juanita Morris Taylor was unable to come. He said the health of Reuban McGill ‘47 of Amarillo has improved after being hospitalized.

Stork arrival: Wesley Striet ‘89 and his wife Julie, product of Michigan school for the Deaf are proud parents of a daughter born on October 2, 2006. Her name is Eliza. She weighted 6lbs and 3oz.

Vernon ‘50 and Joan Burnett Pate ‘42 vacationed in Tucson and Mesa, Arizona during the summer. Joan is proud to announce that she has 26 great grandchildren. They were stuck in a flood in El Paso and had to wait a few days. They drove 18 hours to arrive in Texas in time for work at TSD. Vernon and Joan Pate motored to Louisiana on Labor Day weekend to be with his 97 years old father. He is in a nursing home in Ringgold, LA. as he had a light stroke a few weeks ago. They also visited his two sister-in-laws. They spent one night at Timpson, TX as a guest of his sister-in-law.

Brett Waltman ‘89 is rehired as an After School Program Coordinator at TSD. He was resident educator at TSD a few years ago. He earned his Bachelor’s degree majoring in Communication Studies at Gallaudet University. He was employed at Louisiana School of the Deaf as a Staff Development Specialist. His wife, Kristin Clark Waltman was a product of Wisconsin School for the Deaf and she is assigned as an assistant teacher in kindergarten. They have a two year old girl. TSD is glad to have them back.

Early McVey ‘42 of Houston was 85 on July 4, 2006. His daughter, Patsy McVey Walker ‘64 had a surprise birthday dinner which was catered at the activity hall on July 1. There were about 125 people at the dinner. Early is still active for his age.

George ‘58 and Sue Nell Bridwell Farek ‘60 of Crockett, Texas informed us that Virginia Sessions ‘58 of San Marcos and the Fareks helped celebrate Mrs. Jenanette Creath Croll’s 100th birthday was held at the retirement home in Crockett on April 9. A nice crowd joined them. She remembered her sign language as she taught manual communication in high school at TSD during 1935-1942.

The oldest TSD teacher who are still living are: Mrs. Myrtle Hornsby Callan, Mrs. Jeanette Creath Crell, Mrs. Carrie Lou Abbott under the superintendents of T.M. School and E.R. Wrights. Mrs. Abbott lost her husband, Lee Abbott in June. He was deacon at Congress Avenue Baptist Church and helped with the Deaf. We all miss him.

Don Sowell ‘50 and Johnny Martz ‘60 of San Marcos visited relatives in Dallas and Wichita Falls in August. They stopped by Graham, TX to visit with Donnell Bryan ‘50.

Shayne Babcock ‘97 visited TSD campus before Homecoming week. He had been in Hawaii independently this summer. His mother, Susan Anderson is still at TSD as a librarian for many years.

We had a nice chat with Martha Baker Pruitt ‘53 through videophone. She wants to send news that Deaf Senior Citizens from Dallas Action Center for the Deaf made a trip to Canada in a chartered bus from Arkansas, Tennessee, Kentucky, Ohio and Pennsylvania. They stopped at a restaurant in New York on the way to Canada. It was very strict there that the patrolman checked their licenses and birth certificates so they visited Toronto, Quebec City and Montreal. They lodged at different hotels. Senior Citizens listed as Thomas ‘51 and Martha Baker Pruitt ‘53, Elma Alanis Usrey ‘52, Martha Wilcoxson Phillips ‘39, Rubin ‘47 and his wife Sims of Houston, James ‘48 and Julia Spalding ‘65, Jessie Bolton McCarlies ‘44, Alton Young ‘42, Patsy Rasberg Kemp ‘48, Helmut ‘52 and Erna Rueffer Quiran ‘57.

Thomas ‘51 and Martha Baker Pruitt ‘53 of Dallas celebrated their 53rd wedding anniversary on July 4, 2006. Congratulations to the Pruitt.

Martha Baker Pruitt ‘53 informed us that the Deaf Action Center for the Deaf group motored to Fort Worth on October 13th and they toured the Deaf Assisted Living at Westerchester Plaza. They enjoyed visiting with other Deaf senior citizens who reside at the place where they get good care, skilled interpreters and nurses.

Doris Hodges Hightower ‘45 is still living at Deaf Action Center Apartments in Dallas. She was a former custodian at the TSD Primary Dept. 1945-1946.

Helmert ‘52 and Erna Rueffer Quiran ‘57 of Dallas proudly announced that they have 3 grandchildren. Congratulations to the Quirans.

I had a nice chat with Oreita Brumley Patton ‘37 though videophone on October 14th. She resides in Alabama as she moved from Nacogdoches, TX. She is 89 years old. She was happy to see us on the videophone.

Gertrude Kaspea Sessions ‘52 of Houston, Gertie Galloway of Austin, Retired Superintendent of New Jersey School for the Deaf, Kathryn Caldcleught ‘50 of Austin and Mario ‘56 and Charm McWhorter Montello ‘58 of San Antonio traveled to Greece and Turkey, September 22 to October 10th. The interpreters were Shayne Galloway and Alan Sessions. There were 40 people all together. They visited many interesting historic sites in both countries.

OLD NEWS…

Keith Sibley, ‘70 and his wife Paula of Edinburgh, were in Austin for the weekend of October 15th-16th to attend the Deaf Festival. Paula is a graduate of Washington State School for the Deaf and she is a member of the Faculty staff at a mainstream program there.

Christine Boyd McKinner, ‘43, of Houston and her daughter greeted everyone at the Deaf Festival. She is still very active for her age.

Joan Pate, ‘42, visited talked though videophone with Glen and Virginia Hill Horton, ‘45. They were surprised to see each other and they enjoyed chatting. They have been married for 48 years and traveled several different camps like Snowbird. At present, they are living in California.

Peggy Dodd Robinson, ‘55 of Baytown, surprised everyone at the Deaf Festival, as we had not seen her for many years. She was accompanied by the Wayne Lee Carters, ‘66 and Peggy Lamb, ‘66.

Ruby Holder Rueffer, ‘66 and Melvin Rueffer, ‘66 of Waco and Walter Holder and his wife joined with the crowd at the festival. Elvis Minshew,’38 is still living in Waco and does not go out much.

Larry Lawrence and Aurora Smith, ‘83, proudly announced the birth of their baby boy. The baby was born on August 31 and was named Kimani Lawrence. He weighs 7lbs 6oz. A sister and brother shared the joy and happiness of his arrival. Larry is still member of TSD High School faculty and Aurora is on leave of absence.

Earl, ‘61 and Marilyn Burrors Johnson, ‘61 of Pasaenda, were at the festival. He retired from Auto Trade several years ago.

Shirley Bridges Buizherini, ‘53 of Orangefield, visited at TSD Heritage Center with her daughter, Gloria. She was very much impressed with the Center. She has 4 children living. Her youngest daughter was killed in a car accident few days ago. She also lost her husband Joe Buizherini, ‘49. She also attended the TSD homecoming game on October 1st and 2nd.

Ronald Craven, ‘78 of New York, came to the TSD Homecoming. He is still employed at the place where he transports autos for 8 years. He is married and has 3 children.

Jennifer Coleman, ‘04 of Fredrick, Maryland, flew to Austin and surprised everyone at the TSD Homecoming. She said Gentry Shortes,’93 is still working at Maryland School for the Deaf.

Travis, ‘48 and Gertrude Sessions, ‘52 of Houston, greeted everyone at the TSD Homecoming as they always come here every year but missed last few years.
 

Don Bradford and his wife surprised everyone at the Homecoming. Presently, they are building a new home in Kyle, TX.

Jaime Lugo, ‘94, is employed at the Missouri School for the Deaf as a residential advisor. His sister, Linda Lugo Hill is a member of the TSD High School faculty. Linda’s husband Sean Hill is also empl9oyed at TSD as a residential advisor.

Rogelio Fernandez, ‘94, is employed at C.S.D. He and his wife, Andrea Bright, have a baby boy; His wife is a member of the TSD faculty staff.
 

Tommy Lacy, ‘94 & Jacob Elliott, ‘94 attended the TSD Homecoming although, there was no class reunion of 10 years.

Tyran Lee, ‘94, was hired at TSD as a residential educator. He graduated with a BA degree in Political Science/Sociology from U. T. El Paso, TX in 2003. He worked as a volunteer at the El Paso Center for the Deaf.

Tommy Koch, ‘95, who was active as a student at TSD and as a residential educator at Gallaudet University, is currently with the TSD Deaf Smith Center as an Activity Coordinator.

Martha Anger,‘03 and Bianca Carrigan, ‘02, visited TSD campus before leaving for N.T.I.D. and greeted everyone with happy smiles.
 

Jake Nunez, ‘90, has been working at TSD as a residential educator since September 2004. He has a BA degree from Gallaudet University and a MA degree from Lamar University in Beaumont, TX. Previously, he was employed at the New Mexico School for the Deaf as a residential educator.
 

We have learned from Tennie V. Sessions, ‘58, that Jeanette Creath Crell is resident at Assisted Living Program in Crockett, TX. She was a former teacher at TSD from 1935 to 1942.

Roger Williamson, ‘70 and his wife, Ella celebrated their 27th wedding anniversary this year. Roger and his wife have no children. They moved to Irving, TX (west of Dallas) last October 2004. They can visit with Roger’s former classmates, old friends, brother and father. They had been living in Seattle, Washington for over 27 years. Roger has retired from professional Photographer & Custom Color Printer after 25 years and taught ASL for 5 years. They are glad to have moved to Irving. Roger has survived cancer twice (1985 & 2000). He is doing well. He is looking forward to going to TSD Alumni Reunion Celebration next year. His hobbies are scrap booking and Family Tree. He has written many genealogical books about his family tree. His wife, Ella, also has many hobbies, i.e. crafts work, scrap booking, crocheting, quilting and sewing. Roger’s wife’s family is a celebrity. They have performed in a movie called "Never Cry Wolf" made by Disney. An author has written many books about Ella’s family. You can find those books at the bookstore. The books are "People of the Deer", Never Cry Wolf", "Desperate People", and "Walking on the Land". Ella was in the movie called "Kikkik". She has told us about her experience in cold, starvation and Shaman.

O. Ray and Eleanor Hurst have established a scholarship fund at the Stephan F. Austin State University for deserving youngsters from his high school, Shelby County and from his wife’s home, Woodville, Tyler County. While he was a UT student, he was a houseparent at TSD during the second semester of 1942. He helped Cora Clinger, ‘12 with young boys at TSD. He also was drafted into the U. S. Navy and served until 1046. Ray has retired from the American Hospital after serving many years as president. They are currently residing in Austin. Ray and his wife have two children.

We have learned from Sara Havens, ‘70, that Corroll Willis, ‘69 of Hurst is looking forward living at Granbury Nursing Home. Rita Arnold of Irving is also planning to live there. Presently, Corroll is in therapy,

Ivan Hinojosa, Adrian Mendoza, Rolando Rios and Gerardo Trevino of San Antonio go together at TSD Homecoming as they always go to every activity together at different places. They have jobs at different trades. All of them graduated the same year, 1997.

The Deaf Festival was held at the Palmer Auditorium in Austin on October 16, 2004. There was really a good crowd and many booths were displayed. Donnie Dove of Matthews, North Carolina surprised deaf Texans. He is National Outreach manager of MCI Global Relay. He was a Youth Program supervisor from 1992 to 1997. Many visitors from Dallas, Houston, San Antonio and other Texan cities and out of state were at the festival. Bob Barlow, ‘49 and his wife of Dallas, Harry Richard, ‘50, Sara Havens, ‘70, Martha Wilcoxson Phillip,‘39 of Dallas and Elma Alaris Usrey, ‘52 were there.

Evelyn Schulz Norman, ‘58 of Carrollton attended the festival. We have not seen her for several years and we were glad to see her there. Her husband Bert Norman ‘55 has a stroke and was unable to accompany her to the festival.

All of San Antonio "gang" including Gilberto Escobedo, ‘49 and his wife, Olga Barrera Escobedo, ‘42, Jesus Inclaw, ‘60 and his wife, Florence Ziegler Medina, ‘49 and her friend William Buchanan, ‘52 along with Barbara Lloyd Ross, ‘70, greeted everyone at both TSD Homecoming and the festival. William Buchanan had 5-bypass heart surgery.

Don Adkins, ‘63 and his wife, Lee Applewhite Adkins, ‘75 both of Bastrop, hosted a potluck dinner on September 25th. 8 deaf friends from Houston were there to join with us including Henry Harvard and Joel Cook, ‘69, Vernon Pate, ‘50 and his daughter, Linda Morado, Don’s brother, Doug Adkins, ‘74, Paul Guidry and his son, Jerry Hassell, ‘46 and his wife Dovie, Jack Giacona, ‘63, Joe Degnan, ‘63 and Walter Jatzlau, ‘66 of Giddings, Gus Curbello, ‘53 of Houston and R.M. Edgely, ‘55 and his wife were there.

Franna Corley Camenisch, ‘65 was surprised to meet Grover Farqualn’s daughter and granddaughter from Missouri in September. They toured the TSD Heritage Center. His daughter and granddaughter are hearing and they know Sign Language. Grover Farqualn graduated from TSD in 1908 and entered Gallaudet University. He taught at Missouri School for the Deaf for many years. He is currently deceased. Very interesting, He was awarded the Hall of Fame at Missouri School for the Deaf.

Hector Brual surprised everyone at TSD Homecoming. He is employed at Sprint Communications in Jackson Mississippi and he helped support sending the Mississippi School for the Deaf football team to play against TSD on October 2nd. In 1990, he was a TSD residential manager for a while then he worked as an activity coordinator for a few more years before moving to Mississippi.

On October 1st, 2004, David Suddath was promoted to Residential Instructor. In 1990, he was TSD residential educator. He worked at Tennessee School for the Deaf for 2 years then moved back to Texas to work at TSD a few years ago. TSD welcomes him back. He is with the Guidance Program 1 boys.

Dominga Jimenez, ‘59, underwent kidney surgery in July. She returned home in September and returned to work at TSD after Labor Day as a custodian. She is now retired.

Paul Guidry and his wife, Meg Blake Guidry,’78, have been employed at TSD since 1985. He graduated from Louisiana School for the Deaf. At first, Meg worked at TSD as a residential educator for a few years, now she is an assistant teacher. After working at TSD for a few years as a residential educator, Paul is now HS behavioral specialist. Meg and Paul have one son.

Linda Morado, daughter of Vernon, ‘50 and Joan Pate, ‘42 escorted the TSD Prom King Henry Prince and 2004 Queen, Anna Chavez, in her new 2005 Silver Spider convertible. TSD played against the Mississippi School for the Deaf on October 2nd, 2004. Mississippi won 20 to 9.

We received a letter from Sherri Eaves, ‘86 of Kilgore in which she informed us that on October 2nd, Randy Eaves, ‘80 was in car accident with a deer. The deer was killed. Also, on August 16th, some burglar broke into their home and stole their telephone, TDD device, fax, microwave, small TV/DC and piggy bank. She has two broken bones and will have foot surgery in March 2005.

Joan Burnett Pate,‘42, proudly announced her 22nd great granddaughter, Amaya Soleya Martinez, who was born on November 5, 2004. The baby weighs 5 lbs. 13 oz; height: 18 _ inches long. Two other great grandsons including Josiah Steven Tenteria were born on Marcy 18, 2004. Dominic Andres Lopez was born on July 22, 2002. Daniel Cruz Lopez was born on December 31, 2004 and Nathaniel Thomas Renteria on April 20, 2003. Joan is looking forward to having her 77th birthday on November 20th. She still enjoys collecting pictures.

Vernon Pate, ‘50 has a nice visit with Marie Cosby Shropshire, ‘32 and her daughter, Norma Shrosphire, retired TSD attendance clerk, on Friday, October 29th. They were really happy with the visit. Marie is 91 years old. Marie Cosby Shorpshire, Mildred Alexander Williamson, ‘33 and Ella Burt Street, ‘32 are the oldest living residents around Austin. Marie recalls that she was a student at TSD during the time T.M. Scott was super indent for 16 years.

Recently, Joel Cook, ‘69 was hospitalized the South Austin Hospital for treatment. He was happy to have received visits from everyone. He is not working at TSD,
 

Earl Day, ‘60 of Sugarland retired a few years ago from Bank of America after working there for 18 years. He was in Austin during the weekend of November 13-14 to attend the viewing and burial of Don Adkins who passed away on November 12th.

Fred Clifton, ‘65 of Houston, visited his mother, Laurue Clifton, ‘38 and his brother Jack Clifton, ‘65 moved from Pflugerville to Elgin where he purchased 5 acres of land. After working at the Texas Rehabilitation Commission for 35 years, Jack retired 2 years ago.

Bobby Creed, ‘67 retired two years ago from the State Comptroller after 35 years of services.

Dominga Jimenez, ‘59 retired from TSD after 27 years on December 1, 2004. TSD High School faculty gave her a surprised party two weeks before. She was a very valued at the High School. Everyone will miss her.

Henry Harvard, ‘69 and Joel Cook, ‘70 went deer hunting during the fall season. Henry shot one buck and two does. Joel shot an 8-point buck. They were both very lucky!!

Cepriano and Eva Lozano Anguelo, ‘54 celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary on June 13th. 70 People included their 3 grown children, 8 grandchildren, relatives and friends attended their party at San Jose’s Cypress Senior Citizen. Cep graduated from California School for the Deaf (CSD) in 1943. Eva graduated from TSD in 1954. CONGRATULATIONS!!!! To the Anguelos.!!

After the funeral services for Don Adkins on November 15th his body was transported to Sherman, TX for burial on November 16th. Don Adkins’s son Jr. saw an eagle flying around the tree and then it stat on the tree. He told Linda Morado and his folks about it and they all watched it. At the funeral services, they mentioned that Don’s hobby was in eagles. His casket has a pretty picture of an eagle on it. According to the verse from the scripture in the Bible, Isaiah 40:31, it mentions eagles. That is very interesting! The deaf people in the community will miss him. Quotation from the Bible-Isaiah 40:31 " But they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint."
 

Obituaries
Marie Shrosphire, ‘32, passed away on November 15, 2004. Her funeral service was held on November 18, 2004. Her 3 daughters, 9 grandchildren, and 15 great grandchildren survived her. Marie’s husband, Cecil Shropshire worked at TSD as a painter instructor between 1940 to 1945. Daughter, Norma Shropshire worked at TSD as attendance recorder and secretary for many years until she retired in 2000.

Vernall Shriver passed away on November 26. 2004. She worked at TSD food services for 29 years. She attended Texas School for the Deaf, Blind, Orphans and Colored at the East Campus. She retired in 1982. She was a very friendly employee and she loved everyone. Her funeral service was held on December 3, 2004. Her husband, Lee Andrew Shivers, precedes her in death. She was 86 years old. Linda Morado interpreted the services,

Carolyn Rose Utman,‘53 passed away on Monday, December 6, 2004. After graduating from TSD, she attended Gallaudet University and Southwest Texas University. She taught at the Texas School for the Blind in Austin, TX and in Guam. A funeral service was held at Wilke, Clay & Fisk Funeral Homes on December 7, 2004. Linda Morado interpreted the services. A burial service was at Texarkana, Arkansas on December 8th. She is survived by 3 sons, Tommy and his wife, Bobbi; James Utzman and his wife, Colleen; and John Utzman and his wife, Heidi; 7 grandchildren. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions go to the Texas Alumni Association of the Deaf. She loved everyone.

Charles Missildine, ‘50 of Oregon, passed away on May 14, 2004. He was TSD residential educator around 1985 for a few years. He was TSDAA secretary from 1985-1986. 3 sons survive him by previous marriage, to Sandra Turner, ‘53.

Aleta Taylor, ‘60 of Temple, TX passed away on December 14, 2004. Her husband, Ronnie White, ‘55, son Marvin and daughter Joyce and 2 grandchildren survive her. A funeral service was held on December 17, 2004.

Clee Ann Morgan Pate, ‘60 passed away on December 23, 2004. Her husband, Sidney Pate,’60 and two children survive her. Her memorial services were honored at the South Congress Avenue Baptist Church on January 2, 2005.

Opal Persky Piercy, ‘44 of Houston passed away on December 25, 2004. A funeral service was held at 10:30 am on December 29, 1004. Her husband, Eugene Piercy, ‘44, one son, survives her and daughter, Polly Walton who is a member of TSD governing board. She was active at the Deaf Baptist Church in Houston for many years.
 

Dorothy Koen, of Austin, TX passed away on Wednesday, February 18, 2004. 2 daughters, Betty Koen Dannis and Carolyn Koen Turner, precede her in death. Betty was a TSD student but left in 1942 to enter oral school in St. Louis, MO. She survived by her son, Billy Koen and some grandchildren. One of her granddaughters (deaf) Elin Dannis of Fremont, CA. Mrs. Koen was in jewelry business with her husband on Congress Avenue for many years. Betty Koen Dannis’ grandfather, Joe Koen was TSD board member and he was highly honored. Older girls’ dormitory is named "Joe Koen" dormitory.

Bob Bailey, husband of our TSD beloved interpreter, Doris Bailey, passed away on October 24, 2004 after a lengthy illness. Doris’ love and devotion was evident in all of her actions and work. Doris’ uncle, Doyle Thompson, was a graduate of TSD in 1942.

Edwin Nirider, ‘55 passed away on October 1, 2004. He was employed at Kelly Air Force Base in San Antonio, TX for many years until he retired. He and his wife, Elizabeth and family moved to Austin. One of their small deaf sons attended TSD. Our heart felt sympathy to the Nirider family.

Griffi Hancock, ‘55 of Kerens, passed away on September 29, 2004. He was buried at Kerens’ Cemetery. His wife, Betty Alexander Hancock, was TSD queen in 1960. He was employed at the Hat Factory in Corsicana for 35 years.

Estella Cameron, age 89, of Houston passed away on October 17, 2004. She was well known as a Sunday school teacher at the Memorial Baptist Church at Baytown for many years and she established the deaf ministry. She taught several young Christian to become Sign Language interpreters. She also taught at several churches in Louisiana when she was young. She was a good friend to Joel Cook, ‘70. She took him to church when he was a kid. She was buried in Homer, Louisiana after the funeral services on October 20, 2004.

Emmett Hall, age 84, passed away on September 8, 2004. He attended TSD before moving to Oklahoma. He graduated from Oklahoma School for the Deaf in 1940. His wife, Margaret Hill Hall, ‘39, one son and 5 grandchildren survive him. He was a printer and farmer.

Edwin Jamison Spencer, age 44, son of Lewis ‘52 and Joan Wright Stovall, ‘50 passed away on September 23, 2004 in San Marcos, TX. Burial was at Glitzier, TX.
 

William (Bill) H. Rozell, 70, born February 12, 1935, passed away in his sleep on Friday June 24, 2005, Huntsville, TX. His brothers, Alton Rozell, and Arthur Rozell, his companion, Dehilia Harris and his extended family, survive him. His parents, Alton Arthur and Goldie Rozell, precede him in death.

Sharon Kay Jones Stephenson, ‘63 of Spiro, died Tuesday, June 28, 2005 in a local hospital. She was born on June 6, 1942, in Wichita, Kansas. She was a homemaker, of the Baptist Faith, Sunday school teacher of the deaf for 15 years, past president of the Deaf Club and teacher’s aide for the deaf student at Belle Point Elementary. Private funeral was held at 11 am. Thursday, June 30 at Lewis Funeral Chapel in Lavaca. The body was viewed beginning at noon, June 29, 2005 at the funeral home. Memorial service was hold at 10 a.m. on July 9,at Bobbie Nerenberg’s home. Her husband, Archie, survives her. Two daughters, Freda Jones of Arkansas and Elizabeth Gooch of Fort Smith, a son Rodney Stephenson of Webb City and 6 grandchildren.

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