By Kenny Mitchell kenny@westbowiepost.com A partnership between area organizations looks to provide some much-needed help to the Texarkana Baptist Children’s Home with their Stuff-A-Jeep fundraiser. The effort is a partnership between the New Boston Jeep Club and Juneteenth New Boston with the hope of collecting everyday items for the kids living at the children’s home. The list of items they are hoping to collect includes personal hygiene products, body wash and soap, toothpaste and toothbrushes, deodorant and other everyday essentials that are included on the attached flyer. The donation drive will run from now through the end of August with a host of area business joining the effort to serve as drop off locations, the entire list can be seen on the flyer. More drop off locations are being added to the list and if you would like to join the effort by serving as a drop off location you can contact the organizers by email at newbostonjeepclub@gmail.com, or contact Juneteenth New Boston by messaging their Facebook page. The organizers say through the donations of these new and unused items, we can all make a difference in the lives of the children at Texarkana Baptist Children’s Home.

This Nationwide Effort Encourages Citizens to Sign Up as Poll Workers New Boston, Texas — Today, the Bowie County Election Office announced it is joining the U.S. Election Assistance Commission (EAC) in recognizing August 11, 2026, as National Poll Worker Recruitment Day. With the midterm elections about three months away, Bowie County Elections is still looking for eligible Americans to assist with in-person voting. “This National Poll Worker Recruitment Day, we encourage you to make a difference in our community by signing up to be a poll worker,” said Pat McCoy, Election Administrator. “In the early elections in 2026, Bowie Elections had over 100 election workers at voting locations. We now ask for your help. Signing up to be a poll worker gives you an opportunity not only to see how elections are run, but to join your friends, neighbors, and coworkers to serve your community.” Duties include setting up polling places and greeting voters, verifying voter registrations, and issuing ballots. They can help explain how the voting process works by demonstrating how voting machines are used and detailing voting procedures. Paid training is provided for all qualified workers. National Poll Worker Recruitment Day was established by the EAC in 2020 to highlight the vital role of election workers and encourage more Americans to serve their local communities. Since it started, this day has grown into a nationwide effort to raise awareness of the need for poll workers. To learn more about specific poll worker requirements, compensation, and how to sign up, visit Elections - Bowie County or call 903.628.6706. ### The U.S. Election Assistance Commission (EAC) was established by the Help America Vote Act of 2002 (HAVA). It is an independent, bipartisan commission charged with ensuring secure, accurate, and accessible elections by developing guidance to meet HAVA requirements, adopting voluntary voting system guidelines, and serving as a national clearinghouse of information on election administration. The EAC also accredits testing laboratories and certifies voting systems, as well as administers the use of HAVA funds. For more information, visit www.eac.gov.

DALE VINCENT ODOM Dale Vincent Odom, age 92, passed away peacefully, surrounded by family, on July 19, 2026. Born on February 4, 1934, in Lake Preston, South Dakota, Dale was raised in Osceola, South Dakota, where he learned the values of hard work and determination from an early age. Growing up on a family farm, he spent his childhood plowing fields, tending horses, and even riding horseback to school—experiences that shaped the strong work ethic and independent spirit he carried throughout his life. Dale’s adventurous nature led him to work on farms and railroads as a young man, even spending time riding in rodeos. He proudly served his country in the United States Army for six years before beginning the career that would define much of his working life. Dale spent 47 years as a professional truck driver, traveling countless miles across the country and taking pride in the honest work he loved. For more than 30 years, he was a proud and active member of the New Boston American Legion and the New Boston VFW. Throughout his life, Dale called many places home, including South Dakota, Colorado, Iowa, Missouri, Texas, and, finally, Arkansas. No matter where he lived, he built lasting friendships through his kindness, easygoing nature, and genuine love of people. Music was one of Dale’s greatest joys. As a guitar player, he performed with the band Country Stars and cherished gathering with family and friends for country music jamborees. Dale also found peace in the outdoors. Whether spending time outside, enjoying nature, or simply sitting on the porch watching the day go by, he appreciated life’s simple pleasures and treasured the moments shared with those he loved. He was preceded in death by his parents, Gilford and Ada Odom; his siblings, Jack Odom, Beverly Anderson, and Lee Odom; and his three children, Jack Odom, Ronnie Odom, and Dee Odom. Dale is lovingly remembered by his devoted spouse, Bonnie Malone of Foreman, Arkansas; his son, Dan Odom of Wichita, Kansas; 13 grandchildren; 26 great-grandchildren; one great-great-grandchild; and numerous loving friends and extended family members. Dale’s legacy is one of service, hard work, and a deep appreciation for family, friendship, and the simple blessings of life. He will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved him. A visitation will be held on Thursday, July 23, 2026, at Bates-Rolf Funeral Home in New Boston, Texas, beginning at 10:00 a.m., followed by a Celebration of Life service at 11:00 a.m. Family and friends are invited to attend as they gather to honor and celebrate Dale’s life and the many memories he leaves behind.

ROBERT STACY TIDWELL Robert Stacy Tidwell of De Kalb, Texas, passed away on July 20, 2026, in Texarkana, Arkansas, at the age of 69. Stacy was born on January 31, 1957, to Bobby Joe and Wanda Payne Tidwell. He was preceded in death by his parents, Bobby Joe and Wanda Payne Tidwell; his beloved wife, Mitzi Tidwell; and his brother, Joe Stanley Tidwell. Those left to cherish his memory include his son, Alex Hart and wife, Cattlin, of Simms, Texas; his sister, LaJuan Garrett and husband, Danny; his grandson, James Day; two nephews, Clay Garrett and wife, Mary, and Tyler Garrett and wife, Morgan; one niece, Kayla Blackstone and husband, Chad; along with numerous extended family members and many dear friends. Stacy had a passion for vegetable gardening and was an avid reader throughout his life. His thirst for knowledge was unmatched, and he seemed to know a lot about nearly everything. He especially enjoyed reading encyclopedias and was admired for his remarkable memory and wide-ranging intellect. Alongside his father and son, he enjoyed hobby farming, creating treasured memories that spanned generations. To those who knew him best, Stacy was affectionately known as “Wild Man,” a nickname given by his friends that reflected his adventurous spirit and unforgettable personality. To his son Alex’s friends, he was fondly known as “Captain Stacy,” a title that spoke to the respect and affection he earned from everyone around him. Stacy will be remembered for his intelligence, his curiosity, his love of family, and the countless stories and conversations he shared with those fortunate enough to know him. His presence will be deeply missed, but his memory will live on in the hearts of all who loved him. Cremation is under the direction of Bates Family Funeral Home. Memorial services will be announced and held at a later date. Online registration at www.batesfamilyfuneralhome.com.

LAVOICE GARRETT EVANS WRIGHT Lavoice Garrett Evans Wright, age 89, of Orem, Utah, passed away peacefully of natural causes on July 16th, 2026, surrounded by her loving family. Lavoice was born on December 15, 1936, in New Boston, Texas, to Rufus Clay and Virginia Hill Garrett. She was raised in Bowie County and graduated from Hooks High School in 1954, where she excelled in volleyball and basketball and was crowned Homecoming Queen. On July 13, 1954, she married the love of her life, Marion Royce Evans. Together they built a life centered on faith, family, and service. She will be laid to rest beside him at Myrtle Springs Cemetery in Hooks, Texas. She later married Dean Wright. A devoted member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Lavoice served three full-time missions and faithfully served in many Church callings. She loved painting, volunteering, spending time with family and friends, and playing games late into the night. She will be remembered for her kindness, generous spirit, deep faith, and love for others. Lavoice is survived by her four children, Randy Evans (Karen), Kim Evans, Mark Evans (Maria), and Jennifer Evans (Jennifer Welch); 48 grandchildren and great-grandchildren; her sisters, Peggy Freeman and Reba Garrett; her twin brother, Joyce Garrett; and her younger brother, Jerry Garrett. She was preceded in death by her husband, Marion Royce Evans; her husband Dean Wright; her parents; her infant sister, Bobbie Jean Garrett; her sister, Annie Bell Whitecotton; her brothers, Gilbert Garrett and Harold Garrett; her grandson, Michael Evans; and her great-grandson Owen Evans. Funeral services will be Wednesday, July 22, 2026, 11:00 am at Walker Sanderson Funeral Home, 646 East 800 North, Orem, UT 84097. Family and friends may visit that morning from 10-10:45 am at the funeral home. Visitation will be on Saturday, July 25, 2026, from 10:00 am to 11:30 am at Bates-Rolf Funeral Home - 502 S. McCoy Blvd - New Boston, Texas 75570. Interment to follow at Myrtle Springs Cemetery - Hooks, Texas.

SANDRA JEAN FOSTER Sandra Jean Foster, age 52, of Fouke, Arkansas, passed away on Thursday, July 16, 2026, in Little Rock, Arkansas. Sandra was born on July 24, 1973, in Texarkana, Texas, to James Daniels and Leanne Stephens Huggins. She was a loving mother, daughter, sister, fiancée, and friend whose kind heart and caring spirit will be deeply missed by all who knew her. She was preceded in death by her mother, Leanne Stephens Huggins; her grandfather, Wiston Daniels; her grandmother, Billie Jean Byrd; her uncles, Steven Daniels and John Daniels; her aunt, Caroline Walls; and her cousins, Ralph Beasley and Steven Daniels. Sandra is survived by her beloved fiancé, Jack Kevin Hensley; her daughter, Cassie Hampton and husband, Brandon, of Portsmouth, Ohio; her son, Robert Jordan of Glenwood, Arkansas; her two step-children, Destiney and Tyler Hensley; her father, James Daniels of Genoa, Arkansas; her sisters, Debra Bailey and husband, Jason, of DeKalb, Texas; Jennifer Jordan and husband, Wes, of West Portsmouth, Ohio; and Joanne Plowman and husband, Chuck, of Foreman, Arkansas; her step-sister, Tina Hensley; her aunt, Anna Endsley and husband Ron and uncle Troy Daniels and wife Erachel. She also leaves behind many cousins, nieces, nephews, and many dear friends who will cherish her memory. Graveside services will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Sunday, July 19, 2026, at New Hope Cemetery in DeKalb, Texas. Sandra’s memory will forever live on in the hearts of those who loved her. Though she has departed this life, the love she shared and the memories she created will remain a lasting comfort to her family and friends. Online registration at www.batesfamilyfuneralhome.com.

CHARLES EDWARD HILLIS Charles Edward Hillis, 82, of Simms, Texas, passed away peacefully at his home on Wednesday, July 15, 2026. Charles was born on July 8, 1944, in Malta, Texas, to Clifford and Mabel Talley Hillis. Affectionately known as “Uncle Fat”, he was a devoted husband, loving father and grandfather, faithful pastor, and friend to many. On May 30, 1964, Charles married Toney Morris. Together they shared more than 62 years of marriage, building a life centered on faith, family, and service to others. Charles faithfully served as the pastor of Trinity Full Gospel Church in Corley, Texas for over 36 years, where he dedicated his life to preaching the Gospel, encouraging others, and shepherding his congregation with compassion and unwavering faith. When he wasn’t ministering, he found great joy in fishing, hunting, and spending time with his family. He was preceded in death by his parents, Clifford and Mabel Talley Hillis; three brothers; and two sisters. Those left to cherish his memory include his beloved wife, Toney Hillis of Simms, Texas; his sons, Paul Hillis and wife Marilyn, and Michael Hillis; his daughters, Lisa Littleton and husband Jason, and Brandy Rachael; his brothers, George Hillis and Tommy Hillis; his sisters, Jenny Ann Surratt, and Judy Chapman; seven grandsons, six granddaughters, and five great-grandchildren, along with numerous extended family members, church family, and dear friends. Services will be 2:00 PM Monday, July 20, 2026 at Victory Holiness Tabernacle in New Boston, Texas with Rev. Mark Vaughn and Rev. Jimmie Ferrell officiating. Interment will follow at Magnolia Cemetery in New Boston, Texas under the direction of Bates Family Funeral Home in De Kalb, Texas. Visitation will be held from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM Sunday, July 19, 2026 at Victory Holiness Tabernacle in New Boston, Texas. Charles will be remembered for his steadfast faith, his love for God’s Word, his dedication to his family, and the countless lives he touched through his ministry. His legacy of faith, kindness, and devotion will continue to live on in all who knew and loved him. Online registration at www.batesfamilyfuneralhome.com.

SARA LYNN SMITH WOOD Sara Lynn Smith Wood, 90, of Newnan, Georgia passed away peacefully Sunday, April 26, 2026 at Brookdale Senior Living in Newnan where she was a resident 7 years. She was born August 30, 1935 in Tyler, Texas to the late Isaac B. Smith and Anna Lola Gay Smith of Avery, Texas. Sara grew up in Spring Hill, Texas and was a 1953 graduate of DeKalb, TX High School. Further, she is a 1956 graduate of the Registered Nursing Program at Texas Christian University in Fort Worth, TX. After college, she taught the Nursing Program at Texarkana College in Texarkana, TX. She also worked at various health organizations across Texas, Pennsylvania, Florida and Georgia. After her husband’s retirement, they moved from Fairburn, GA, where they resided for 20 years and she was an active member of the First Methodist Church, to Newnan, GA where she resided for 22 years. Sara enjoyed collecting antiques, traveling, thrifting, reading, classical music, gardening and spending time with her family. Throughout her life, Sara faced numerous health challenges with remarkable strength and grace. She was a four-time cancer survivor and also endured congestive heart failure, undergoing quadruple bypass surgery, as well as diabetes, glaucoma, and, later in life, a double amputation in 2022. Despite these hardships, she never failed to greet others with a warm smile, always ready to offer a hug and listen to their story first. In addition to her parents, she is preceded in death by a son, Stanley Scott Wood and her husband, Stanley Medford Wood of Avery, Texas. Sara is survived by her sister, Kathryn Ann Newmann; her sister-in-law, Wyvonne O’Rear; her daughter, Julie Wood Parker of Newnan; and her son Seth Wood, Sr., also of Newnan. She is also survived by her grandchildren: Lauren Wood, Natalie White, Seth Wood, Jr. and William (Clint) Wread; and her great-grandchildren: Lexie Shirey, Marlee Wread, William Clint Wread, Jr., Kenneth Levi Wread, Woods Emmitt Schlehuber, Miles Alan Wood and Mia Louise Wood. The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the staff of Brookdale Senior Living and Sacred Journey/Adoration Hospice for their compassionate and dedicated care. Memorial services will be held July 18, 2026 at 11:00 a.m at Bates Family Funeral Home in DeKalb, Texas. Visitation will be help July 18, 2026 at 10:00 a.m at Bates Family Funeral Home. Inurnment will take place at Avery, Cemetery in Avery, Texas. Online registration at www.batesfamilyfuneralhome.com.

DOUGLAS KEITH HALL Douglas Keith Hall, 65, of Plano, Texas, passed away peacefully on July 8, 2026, in Plano, Texas. Doug was born on March 6, 1961, in Dallas, Texas, to Cecil and Mary Pinkham Hall. From an early age, he demonstrated a deep faith and commitment to serving others. At just 11 years old, he received his Baptist minister’s license and began his journey as an evangelist, sharing God’s Word with compassion and conviction throughout his life. Professionally, Doug dedicated his career to helping others as a psychologist. He owned and operated his own psychiatry practice in Dallas, Texas, where he was respected for his knowledge, compassion, and unwavering commitment to the well-being of his patients. His life’s work reflected his genuine desire to bring hope, healing, and understanding to those he served. Doug was preceded in death by his father, Cecil Hall. He leaves behind to cherish his memory his loving mother, Mary Hall of McKinney, Texas; his brother, David Hall and wife, Kelly, of Ballwin, Missouri; his brother, Michael Hall and wife, Jennifer, of Amarillo, Texas; several nieces and nephews; along with numerous other relatives and cherished family friends who will miss him dearly. Graveside services will be held at 3:00 p.m. on Saturday, July 18, 2026, at Woodman Cemetery in DeKalb, Texas, with Matthew McKay officiating. Services are under the direction of Bates Family Funeral Home. Online registration at www.batesfamilyfuneralhome.com.

Monica Gwen Green, age 69, of Simms, Texas, passed away on July 8, 2026. She was born on July 19, 1956, in Naples, Texas, to Wayne and Glenda Oliver. She married Kelly Green on July 7, 1975. Together, they made a life in Simms with their two boys centered around family and the love of country life. Monica loved her grandchildren, her garden, and growing all kinds of plants. She especially loved canning and cooking the things she grew. She is preceded in death by her parents, Wayne and Glenda Oliver; her stepfather, Melvin Oliver; her husband, Kelly Green; and her brother, Bruce Oliver. Monica is survived by her sons, Phillip Green (Brandy) and Barry Green; five grandchildren, Dustyn Green (Brenna), Sierra Green (Charles), Kaden Green (Sarah), Blade Green (Abegail), and Canden Green; five great grandchildren; one brother, Steve Oliver (Angela); and several nieces and nephews. Cremation is under the direction of Bates Family Funeral Home in De Kalb, Texas. A memorial service to honor Monica’s life will be held at a later date. Online registration is available at www.batesfamilyfuneralhome.com.

Augusta O. ‘Gussie’ Cowan, age 85 of Simms, Texas passed away Wednesday, July 8, 2026 in a local nursing facility. Ms. Cowan was born August 25, 1940 to Jimmie Lee and Tee Gaines in Boxelder, Texas. She was a Homemaker, Texarkana Gazette Courier, Print Shop Owner and lover of all animal kind. She is preceded in death by her parents, Husband, Billy Gene Cowan, a brother, Douglas Gaines and a niece, Dawn Gaines. ‘Gussie’ is lovingly remembered by her brother, Donald Gaines of Boxelder, Texas, several nieces, nephews and other relatives and friends. Funeral services will be held on Sunday, July 12, 2026 at 3:00 P.M. in the bates Rolf Chapelm, New Boston with Bro. Steve Minter officiating. Private Interment will follow in Boxelder Cemetery, Boxelder, Texas. Visitation will be from 2:00 until 3:00 P.M. before services. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the ASPCA OR Boxelder Cemetery Association, C/O Jamie Huddleston, 11854 FM 909, Bogata, Texas 75417.

Robert Lee Hooks, age 82 of New Boston, Texas passed away at his home on Sunday., July 5. 2026. Mr. Hooks was born January 31, 1944 to Matthew and Mattie Lee Hooks in Foreman, Arkansas. He was retired from Red River Army Depot where he was a Fork Lift Operator. Mr. Hooks was also a United States Navy and United States Air Force Veteran and is preceded in death by his parents, a daughter, Andrea Hooks, brother, Chester Hooks and grandmother, Georgia Compton. Mr. Hooks is lovingly remembered by his wife, Shirley Hooks, daughter, DeAundrea McIver, son, Robbie Hooks and wife Holland, 8 grandchildren, numerous great grandchildren, other relatives and friends. Funeral services will be held at 1:00 P.M., Saturday, July 11, 2026 in the Bates Rolf Chapel, New Boston. Interment will follow in DeKalb Cemetery, DeKalb, Texas under the direction of Bates Rolf Funeral Home, New Boston, Texas. Visitation will be from 5:00 until 7:00 P.M. Friday, July 10, 2026 at the funeral home.