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Ronald Payne, 57

Died November 22, 2020.

Woodward Middle School, Woodward, OK

Mathematics

Obituary:

Ronald Glenn Payne, II, 57 year old current teacher and coach at the Woodward Public Schools, died Sunday, November 22, 2020 in Woodward. Funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m. Wednesday, November 25, 2020 in the Billings Funeral Home Chapel. Interment will be at 2:00 p.m. at the Hobart Rose Cemetery in Hobart. We ask that you wear a mask at the funeral and please wear OU attire for Ron’s last Boomer Sooner rally.

Ronald Glenn Payne, II was born on July 24, 1963 in Cheyenne, Oklahoma to Ronald Glenn Payne and Neva Jean Pyatt. Ron grew up in Cheyenne and graduated from Cheyenne High School. He attended Southwestern Oklahoma State University and received his Bachelors degree in Health and Sports Science. He later received his Masters in Administration.

He was united in marriage to Judy Sharp on July 15, 1994 at Lone Wolf, Oklahoma. They made their first home in Mountain View, before moving to Sterling, Taloga and Woodward. Early on Ron worked as a Sheriff Dispatcher for Roger Mills County. He was a teacher and coach for 26 years and also served as Principal for Corn Public Schools. He was currently coaching and teaching for Woodward Public Schools and he will be missed by his family, friends, and all the students he had.

Ron enjoyed woodworking, golf, and he loved his OU Sooners and Dallas Cowboys. Ron loved spending time with his wife, children, grandchildren, extended family and friends.

He is survived by his parents, Neva and Joe Pyatt of Cheyenne, Karel Payne of Stillwater; his wife Judy Payne of the home; daughters: Kayla Hodges and husband Billy of Weatherford, Heather Tutten and husband Dusty of Blair, Gretchen Jones and husband Jeremy of Clinton; son, Chad Baden of Woodward; 11 grandchildren: Ali and Wade Powell, Rhett Tutten, Shawn O’Kelley, Mia Jones, Preslie Jones, Payton Jones, Justice Jones, Casen Hodges, Teagan Hodges, Houston Hodges; one great-grandchild, Ridge Powell; brothers Jon Payne of Stillwater and Lance and Dena Bowman of Cheyenne; sisters: Renae and Mike Bagzis of Cheyenne, Michelle and Darren Knight of Elk City, Kristi and Ron Leonard of Oklahoma City; his dogs, Speck, Gizmo, Bear, and Trouble; other relatives and many friends.

Ron was preceded in death by his grandparents, Nina (Jiggs) and Dean Krober, Vergil and Nina Payne, Lavera Lyle and his dad, Ronald Glenn Payne and loyal friend and pet, Patch.

Memorials contributions may be made to the WOOF Pet Rescue with the funeral home accepting the contributions.

Cynthia Torbett, 55

Died November 27, 2020.

Colonial Heights Middle School, Kingsport, TN

Counselor

Local news:

Community members pulled together this week to support a local family following the death of a woman known by many for her service to children.

Cindy Torbett, a Colonial Heights Middle School counselor and former Science Hill High School secretary, died Nov. 27 at the age of 55 following a battle with COVID-19. Her husband Phil was still in Johnson City Medical Center’s Intensive Care Unit as of Wednesday.

Former Science Hill Principal John Boyd said Cindy worked under Assistant Principal Jeff Aldridge, primarily in the attendance office, during her time at Science Hill. It was there that she began to consider a future career in counseling.

“Cindy was a wonderfully kind, generous and hard-working person who radiated energy and caring for all students and staff,” Boyd said. “I’m sure that sincere concern for others served her well in her later career as a school counselor.”

Her mother, Ginger Ison, who also had worked in Johnson City Schools, said Cindy wanted to work in a field that would enable her to help more children. That eventually led to her career at Colonial Heights in 2012.

“She just saw a need for children. I think she saw a lot of that when she was at Science Hill and realized there were things she could do,” Ison said.

Rebecca Henderson, a longtime friend who attended a prayer group with Cindy, said she was known for her generous and caring nature.

“She was a very giving person,” she said. “It’s true, she would’ve given you the shirt off her back.”

Henderson recalled one example of Cindy’s drive to help others.

“Without ever mentioning names, or even if they are boys or girls, Cindy has several times told us about students coming into her office, so hungry they cannot learn,” she said. “On many occasions, the prayer group girls and I have brought Ramen noodles, packages of instant soup, granola bars, packages of snack crackers, snack-sized containers of pudding and fruit, and because of their long shelf life, apples, for Cindy to take to her students.”

Since Cindy’s death, the family has received financial support through an online fundraiser started by Cindy’s lifelong friend Kayla Wilson, who works as a teacher at Science Hill. The fundraiser aims to help cover funeral and medical expenses.

By Wednesday afternoon, the campaign had raised more than $11,000.

Ison said more than 300 people recently attended a prayer vigil for the couple before Cindy died. She said it’s been amazing to see such support during this difficult time.

“Both of them are loved by so many people,” Ison said.

Boyd said that level of support is fitting for someone known for helping others.

“Cindy shared so much love for the students and educators in our community,” he said. “It’s heartwarming that the community is returning the love to the Torbett family.”

Phil’s condition was improving Wednesday, according to Ison.

For more information on the fundraiser or to donate, visit www.gofundme.com/f/torbett-family-fundraiser.

Tammy Cannon, 52

Died December 13, 2020.

Westward Elementary School, Colbert, OK

Principal

Obituary:

Tammy Russell Cannon, 52, of Mead, OK went home to be with our Lord on Dec. 13, 2020.

Tammy was born March 27, 1968, to Glen and Billie Russell. She attended Allen High School in Allen, Oklahoma. She earned a bachelor’s degree from Southeastern Oklahoma State University and a Master’s degree from East Central Oklahoma State University. Students in all levels of education in both Texas and Oklahoma were blessed by her award-winning career as an educator. Most recently she served as the principal of Westward Elementary in Colbert, Oklahoma.

Tammy loved to make new memories and have unique experiences. More than that she enjoyed sharing those experiences with family. She loved to camp, hike, and explore. Many a cousin can still recall adventures in which they were led by Tammy. She had an uncompromising love for family and friends, to which we should all strive.

She is survived by Todd Stringfellow of Mead; her sons Ben, Mason, and Jacob Whipkey of Norman; her father Glen and his wife Norma of Mead; and her sister Tracey and her husband Eric of Wylie, Texas.

She was welcomed to Eternal Glory by her Mother Billie.

The family has requested at this time the service not be open to the public. Covid took their precious Tammy and it is their hope that by doing this that no other family suffers the same unimaginable loss, as a result of their gathering to bid farewell, for now, to Tammy.

They will celebrate her life together with you at a safer, later date TBD and invite you all to come share your stories of how Tammy touched your lives.
The family wishes to thank all those who have reached out and offered support, love, and prayers.

James Coy, 71

December 3, 2020.

Capital City High School, Jefferson City, MO

Paraprofessional

Obituary:

James Curtis Coy, 71, of Jefferson City passed away on Thursday, December 3, 2020 at SSM Health-St. Mary’s due to complications from COVID-19. He was born April 29, 1949 in Jefferson City; a son of the late Curtis O. and F. Varine (Capps) Coy. He was united in marriage to Linda Amsbaugh on January 8, 1972 in Atchison, Kansas.

Jim attended St. Peter school and was a 1967 graduate of Helias High School and a 1971 graduate of St. Benedicts. Jim’s family owned and operated Coy’s Moving and Storage Company where he was the Vice President until his retirement in 2006. After retirement he found his true passion in life as a paraprofessional with Jefferson City Public Schools. He adored his students and was known for loading up on everyone’s favorite bubblegum flavors and getting extra desserts at lunch. His co-workers at school became his second family over the past decade and he loved them dearly. Jim’s greatest joy in life came from his family. He loved big and smiled even bigger. His wife, children, sons-in-law, grandchildren, siblings, nieces, nephews and cousins meant the world to him. He was known for spoiling his children and that spilled over to his grandsons, who were his pride and joy. Jim was a faithful member of St. Peter Catholic Church.

Along with his wife Linda, he is survived by his three children: Alisande Rocha (Pedro) of Nashville, Tennessee, Christopher Coy of Jefferson City and Jill Duzan (Kelly)of Normal, Illinois; grandchildren Mason Coy, James and Everett Duzan; two sisters and one brother. Jim was preceded in death by grandson in his heart, Dylan Pirner and grandson Hayden Duzan.

Private family services will be held in the spring.

In lieu of flowers, expressions of sympathy may be made to the Special Education Department at Capital City High School.

Carmen Enriquez Chavez, 64

Died November 21, 2020.

Denver Alternative Learning Center, Wichita Falls, TX

Instructional aide

Obituary:

Carmen Enriquez Chavez, 64, of Wichita Falls passed away on Saturday, November 21, 2020.

A Rosary will begin at 6:00 p.m. followed by a Vigil service and visitation until 8:00 p.m. on Monday, November 30, 2020 at Owens and Brumley Funeral Home in Wichita Falls. The funeral liturgy will be celebrated at 3:00 p.m. on Tuesday, December 1, 2020 at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Wichita Falls with Rev. Jonathan Demma, celebrant. Rite of Committal will follow at Sacred Heart Cemetery under the direction of Owens and Brumley Funeral Home of Wichita Falls.

Carmen was born on July 16, 1956 to the late Panfilo and Josephine (Ayala) Enriquez in Wichita Falls. She graduated from Wichita Falls High School. Carmen married Nicholas “Nick” Chavez. She enjoyed strawberries of any form, watching the Texas Rangers, Dallas Cowboys and the WF Coyotes. The grandchildren were very special to her and she loved being “Granny” to them. If possible, she would make every effort to attend every event the grandchildren, nieces and nephews were participating in. She worked for the WFISD for 40 years and did some seamstress work. Carmen was a “Mom” to all, and she would captivate everyone with her beautiful smile.

Along with her parents, she was preceded in death by husband Nick Chavez; and a daughter Pamela Chavez.

Carmen is survived by daughter Carisa Martinez and husband Daniel; son Nick Chavez and wife Adriana; grandchildren Noah Webb, Gavin Chavez and Gianna Chavez; siblings: Helen Moreno and husband Jose, Danny Enriquez, Carolyn Perez and husband Frank, Susan Crawford and husband George, Rosemary Webster and husband Lonnie, Steven Enriquez, Rita Robinson and husband Steve and David Enriquez and wife Christina; and many nieces and nephews and great nieces and great nephews.

Pamela Podany, 67

Died November 17, 2020.

Thorpe Creek Elementary School, Fishers, IN

Head Cook

Obituary:

Born in Flint, Michigan on September 20, 1953

Departed on November 17, 2020 and resided in Noblesville, Indiana

Pamela (Kuhn) Podany, 67, passed away on November 17, 2020 after a month-long battle with COVID-19.

A small family service will be held on Monday, November 23rd at Flanner Buchanan – Carmel. She was born September 20, 1953, in Flint, Michigan to Joan and Ernie Kuhn. Pam graduated from Holy Rosary High School before continuing on to study nursing at Harper Hospital School of Nursing. She married Randy Podany in 1974, they lived in Flint before relocating to the Chicagoland area. They left Chicago to be closer to their grandchildren in the Indianapolis area in 2007.

Throughout her life, Pam was a true servant of God. From working as a nurse, to volunteering in her kids’ school when they were young, to working at her church, to working as a special education instructional assistant, to taking care of her grandkids, to serving lunch in an elementary school, Pam dedicated her life to serving others, especially children. In her free time she enjoyed crafting, walking her dogs, shopping, attending her grandchildren’s events, and traveling.

Pamela is survived by her daughter, Kari (Chicago, IL), her son and daughter-in-law, Eric and Mary Podany (Carmel, IN), and her three grandchildren, Ella, Olivia, and Ryan. She was preceded in death by her husband, Randy Podany.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in her name to the Hamilton County Humane Society.

Thomas Barnabo, 57

Died November 7, 2020.

Dowling Catholic High School, West Des Moines, IA

Physical Education, Track Coach

Obituary:

Thomas Maurice Barnabo, age 57, passed away peacefully on Saturday, November 7, 2020, in his home of West Des Moines, Iowa. He was born on October 26, 1963 in Beloit, Wisconsin to Don and Arloa Barnabo. He was a 1982 graduate of Parker High School in Janesville Wisconsin.

Tom attended Drake University on a full-ride football scholarship and graduated in 1987. Because of his many friends, he bounced around working in many states before landing back in Iowa at Simpson College.

While working at Simpson he met the love of his life, Susan Godby. The two got married and moved to Texas in 1993 where he taught and coached football. Their son Dalton was born in October of that same year, and son Cole in December of 1994.

A few years later the Barnabos moved to West Des Moines, Iowa after Tom accepted an offer to teach and coach at Dowling Catholic High School where he would go on to work for the next 24 years. He was the defensive coordinator when Dowling earned their first back-to-back state football championship title in 2000 and 2001. And most currently the assistant boys track coach.

In 2008, Tom was recruited to assist in coaching the defensive-line and help launch the first football team at Grand View University. Barnabo helped lead the team to many accomplishments, including winning the NAIA Championship in 2013.

Outside of Tom’s passion for football, he was an avid griller, constantly perfecting his craft and cooking for others. The Barnabos loved hosting for friends and family. They spent their summers swimming in their pool, Tom even took his four month old granddaughter for her first swim this summer.

He strongly admired his father and spent a lot of his time visiting him in northern Wisconsin. The two shared a great love for football, and many outdoor activities such as, hunting, fishing and camping.

Tom had a passion for building relationships and long lasting friendships. He gave his all no matter what. He had a friend in every state, and made sure he never met a stranger.

Tom is survived by his wife of over 27 years, Susan, sons, Dalton (Karissa), Cole (Linda) and their daughter Emma, sister, Lana and father, Don. He is also survived by many beloved family members. He was preceded in death by his mother, Arola, older sister, Dana, and older brother, Dante.

Jeremy Morgan, 44

Died December 6, 2020.

Forney High School, Forney, TX

Football and softball coach

Obituary:

On Sunday, December 6, 2020, Jeremy William Morgan went to be with the Lord at the age of 44. Jeremy was born on June 5, 1976 in West Memphis, Arkansas, to William and Thelma (Young) Morgan. He spent his early years in Arkansas, and then was raised in Waxahachie, Texas. He played on the State Champion football team in 1992, and graduated from Waxahachie High School in 1994. On July 12, 1997, he married Teri Susanne Butler. At Southern Methodist University, Jeremy was a four-year letterman and graduated with honors in 1998. He and Teri raised three children, Addie, William, and Hannah in Waxahachie, and Jeremy coached little league, baseball, softball, and basketball for his children and countless other young ones. After many years in the business world, Jeremy chose to step back and pursue the Lord’s calling on his life to be a high school football coach and teacher. He taught and coached at Waxahachie High School from 2016 to 2018, and began at Forney High School in the fall of 2018.

Jeremy was a beloved husband, a devoted father, an esteemed brother, a cherished son, an admired uncle, and a friend to many. He had a relationship with the Lord from a young age, and he lived his life so that others may come to know the Lord too. Jeremy was a man of integrity, who did things not for the glory or praise, but because they were the right thing to do. He was a man of his word, and was wise beyond his years. Jeremy knew how to have fun and celebrate life’s victories, but did not shy away from walking through the valley with those who needed him.

Jeremy was an example of Christ in the way he loved his family, his students, and his athletes. Jeremy’s love for his wife was unwavering; they were teammates in all that life took them through. As a father, he lived out the principles of a “R.E.A.L. Man:” he rejected passivity, empathized with others, accepted responsibility, and led courageously. It was not just something that he talked about, but something that he modeled for his children and everyone around him. Jeremy valued knowledge, and was eager to impart it to each student in his classroom. He loved teaching because he got to share his knowledge. He loved coaching because he got to share his heart. It was his joy to see boys grow into men, and to be a part of each of their stories on and off the field. Many lives, young and old, in both Waxahachie and Forney were impacted by Coach J-Mo because of his care and intention to be present. He lived out AYGATT- “All You Got, All The Time,” not just in front of the team, but his family, friends, coworkers, and most importantly, the Lord. He was a good and faithful servant to the end.

Jeremy is survived by his wife, Teri, his three children, Addie, William, and Hannah, his father, William, his mother, Thelma, his brothers, Joshua and Jonathan and their families, and a host of others. Visitation will be at Connect4LIFE Church (1971 John Arden Dr, Waxahachie, TX) on Wednesday, December 9, 6-8pm. A funeral service will be held on Thursday, December 10, 2020 at the Waxahachie Bible Church (621 N. Grand, Waxahachie, TX) at 1 o’clock p.m.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to an account set up in Jeremy’s name at Interbank in Waxahachie, TX. All donations will be used to create a scholarship fund in his name.

Jeremy LeJeune, 44

Died December 6, 2020.

Burnet Middle School, Austin, TX

Principal

Obituary:

Jeremy Scott LeJeune, 44, of Leander, Texas passed away Sunday, December 6, 2020 at St. David’s North Medical Center in Austin, Texas. Jeremy was born January 13, 1976 in Beaumont, Texas to Pat and Carlene LeJeune.

Jeremy was a devout Christian and was passionate about his family. He was a member of Great Hills Baptist Church and actively involved in their men’s ministry. Jeremy loved to hunt, fish and watch ESPN. Jeremy was a sports fanatic and an avid UT football fan. He was an educator for 20 plus years. Jeremy began his career as an athletic trainer; he served as assistant principal and principal for Pflugerville Independent School District. He was currently serving as principal for Burnet Consolidated Independent School District. Jeremy was President Elect for Texas Association of Secondary School Principals.

Those left behind to cherish his memory are his wife, Donna LeJeune of Leander, TX; children, Peyton, Bryce and Hayden; parents, Pat and Carlene LeJeune of Port Acres, TX; brother, Jason LeJeune and his wife, Stacie of Hampshire, TX; sister, Jennifer Cormier and her husband, Devin of Cypress, TX; and a host of nieces and nephews.

A gathering of friends and relatives will be held Friday, December 11, 2020 from 5:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m., at Melancon’s Funeral Home, 1605 Ave H, Nederland, Texas 77627. Funeral service for Jeremy will be celebrated Saturday, December 12, 2020 at 2:00 p.m., at First Baptist Church; 1911 Nederland Ave, Nederland, TX 77627, with Dr. Jason Burden and Pastor Danny Forshee officiating.

Sharon Schuldt, 67

Died October 26, 2020.

Sonia Sotomayor Elementary School, Sioux Falls, SD

Food Service

Obituary:

Sharon Schuldt, 67, of Sioux Falls, South Dakota died on Monday, October 26, 2020, of complications from COVID-19. A Celebration of Life gathering will take place when COVID restrictions have ceased. In lieu of flowers or gifts please donate to your favorite charity in memory of Sharon. Please leave online condolences for the family at www.georgeboom.com or send cards to George Boom Funeral Home in care of the Sharon Schuldt family.

Sharon Marie Kant, daughter of Charles “Chuck” and Norma Jean (Eidenshink) Kant was born June 8, 1953, in Sioux Falls. She graduated from Lincoln High School with the class of 1971. On November 27, 1970, she was united in marriage to Michael Duane Schuldt, the love of her life. They had known each other since they were 13 years old. Throughout the years in Sioux Falls she worked at many places including: The Barrel Drive In as a teenager, The Depot, Townhouse Conference Center, Norma K’s deli, Southeast Tech, Citi Bank Daycare and most recent a food service worker with the Sioux Falls School District at Sonia Sotomayor Elementary. Many of the places she worked through the years were with her mother, Norma. She loved traveling with her sisters almost every year. Sharon also really enjoyed attending country concerts. Some trips included Las Vegas, Branson, Missouri and northern Minnesota. She enjoyed spending time at Lake Brandt and Lake Madison with family. She absolutely loved watching her grandsons play baseball, her granddaughters at dance recitals. With a big family it was special to gather for sister birthday lunches. Her dog Ruthie brought her so much joy and comfort. She was a member or Our Saviors Lutheran Church.

Left to cherish her memory are her children, Chad Schuldt of Sioux Falls, Jennifer Peterson of Sioux Falls, Matt (Rachel) Schuldt of Sioux Falls, Kristina (Rebecca Figueroa) Schuldt of Las Vegas, NV, and Sarah (Derrick) Stokes of Sioux Falls; ten grandchildren; father, Charles “Chuck” Kant of Sioux Falls; siblings, Peggy Savage of Sioux Falls, Sandy Murray of Lawrence, KS, Steve (Stella) Kant of Wentworth, SD, Tim (Jamie) Kant of Sioux Falls, Mary (Tom) Wingert of Sioux Falls, and Kathy (Michael) Nelson of Renner, SD; and sister-in-law, Pam Sampson of Sioux Falls.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Michael in 2014; and her mother, Norma Kant in 2019.

Keith Henry, 54

Died December 5, 2020.

Coalfield School, Coalfield, TN

Assistant Principal, Football Coach

Obituary:

Curtis Keith Henry, age 54, of Coalfield, Tennessee (formerly of Scott County, TN), passed away on Saturday, December 5, 2020. He was born on May 7, 1966 to Dolphus and Brenda Pemberton Henry. Keith was married to Pamela (Japp) Henry for 28 years. His children Chastin and Coalton were the light of his life and loved beyond measure. He was a member of Barton Chapel Congregational Church in Robbins, Tennessee but presently attended Mt. Carmel Cumberland Presbyterian Church in Coalfield.

Keith graduated from Oneida High School in 1984. He also graduated from Tennessee Technological University in December 1990 and began his teaching career at Oneida High School. Keith taught American History and had one of the first 21st Century classrooms at Oneida. He also served as the first School to Career Coordinator and was an Assistant Principal at Oneida High School. He began his coaching career at his alma mater in 1989 as a volunteer coach under his former high school coach and mentor Jim May. In 1991, Keith joined the staff full time and was blessed to help coach the State Championship Team in 1992. In 2005, Keith was fortunate to join Coach Gary Kreis’ Coalfield Yellow Jacket Football Staff. In 2008, Keith became head coach of the Coalfield Yellow Jackets. Keith served as Assistant Principal and Head football coach at Coalfield School. His coaching record during his tenure at Coalfield was 115 wins and 48 losses. The 2020 season was record-setting in Coalfield-undefeated season, most school wins in a season and a Semi-Finals appearance. He attributed all of the success through the years to having the best coaching staff in East Tennessee and the best players one could ever hope to coach.

One of Keith’s favorite quotes was from Coach Paul Bear Bryant, “There are a lot of lessons in football that are very difficult to teach in the home, in the church, or in the classroom. They’re easy to teach on the football field, and if the players don’t learn these lessons, then football is not very worthwhile. The lessons are simple: first of all, there’s work and sacrifice; you have to do a lot of that. Then there’s discipline. Then comes teamwork and cooperation. I’ve read a lot about successful men. They don’t do it alone. It always takes a team.”

Keith was preceded in death by his beloved father, Dolphus Henry and father-in-law William Japp.

Keith is survived by his wife of 28 years, Pamela Japp Henry. Daughter Chastin Kade Henry and son Coalton Kash Henry. Mother, Brenda Henry. Brother Jared and wife Christina. Special niece and nephew, Leeah Marie and AJ Henry. Mother-in-Law, Donna Japp of Jefferson City, TN. Sister-in-law, Jennifer Japp of Foley, Alabama. Special Family Members: Shawn Basler, Jason Wilson, James Bales, Shelley Burgess, Grey Dad, Howard Stinnett, Matt Murphy, David Treece, Kelly Norman, Rebecca Owens, Greg Addington, Brian Langley, All Present and Former Football Players and H2O squads. Several very special Aunts, Syble (Ervin) Stringfield, Velma (Dickie) Purser, Eunice Henry. Uncles, Ralph (Flora) Pemberton, Ledford Henry, Winford (Betty) Henry and many special cousins.

Whether it was winning a football game or having a great day at school, Coach loved to see people smile and be happy, so to honor that we will have a Celebration of Life in his honor. This Celebration will be held in the Coalfield High School Gymnasium on Saturday, December 12, 2020, from 10:00, am to 1:00 pm. There will be a brief service at 1:00 and internment at the Estes-Western Cemetery in Coalfield immediately following. If anyone would like to write down a special memory they have of Coach Henry there will be a place where you can leave your written remembrance for the family. The family requests that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to Coalfield High School Football PO Box 98 Coalfield, TN 37719

Ellis Booth, 55

Died December 5, 2020.

Heath High School, Heath, OH

Athletic Director

Obituary:

Heath – Ellis Edward Booth, of Heath, passed away the afternoon of December 5, 2020, at the age of 55.

He is survived by his wife of 29 years, Debbie (Yochheim) Booth, children, Madison Booth & Payton Booth, and younger brother, Mike Booth. He is preceded in death by his parents, Edward Booth & Brenda (Hankins) Booth and grandparents Clifford Hankins and Mildred (Wheeler) Hankins. A private, socially – distanced memorial service for the family will be held this week with a service for the community to follow in the future.

Ellis, E, or EB to family and friends, was the first child born to Ed and Brenda Booth of Columbus, OH, on Dec 21, 1964. Ed worked as a geologist for AEP, moving the family around to several states including Michigan and Ohio, landing them in Ravenswood, West Virginia for Ellis’s high school years. Ellis was a member of the football, basketball, and baseball teams. He went on to study Social Studies at The Ohio State University, later earning his masters of education at Ashland University. He met Debbie while teaching in Newcomerstown, OH in 1988. The two were married on the hottest day of the year on July 20, 1991 at East Chippewa Church of the Brethren in Orville, OH, near Debbie’s hometown.

The two moved to London, Ohio, in 1992 where Ellis was the in-school suspension monitor and coached football, baseball, and girls basketball. They welcomed their first child, Madison, in April of 1995 and Payton in 1998 after moving to Delaware, OH. The family stayed in Delaware until 2001 when Ellis heard of an opening for an Athletic Director/Assistant Principal position at Heath High School in Heath, OH. Ellis got the job and the family became bulldogs.

Ellis served as AD/AP from 2001-2006. From 2006 – 2008 Ellis juggled the roles of AD, AP, and principal, assuming the latter role from 2008 – 2016. In his time as principal Ellis was responsible for running the annual district wrestling tournament, the beautification of the hallways with murals and school activity photos, and the Heath High School Athletic Hall of Fame. Mr. Booth was able to return to his true calling in 2016 as athletic director, being responsible for the new victory bell and his passion project, the new turf football field.

Up front, Ellis was known for his quiet, professional demeanor, but everyone he opened up to appreciated his quick sarcastic wit, his never-ending wisdom, and objective advice. Truly a well-rounded individual, Ellis loved yelling at a television football game as much as he loved singing along to his favorite musical, West Side Story. He loved Debbie, the outdoors, and his Pudelpointer puppy, Henry. He dreamed of traveling the country in his rooftop tent, seeing more mountains and high points, hunting, and fishing. His support of Payton and Madison in their endeavors was never ending, and his love for Heath athletics was clearly reflected in his work.

Ellis’s family would like to extend a special thank you to David and Donna Linn of Heath Church of Christ for his support and council during this time. The family would like to thank the medical staff at Licking Memorial who worked directly to care for Ellis as if he were their own family. Last but not least, the Booth family would like to give a huge thank you to the Heath Bulldog community and school district for their continuous love and support. In Ellis’s memory, in lieu of sympathetic gifts, donations may be made to the Heath Athletics Boosters in his name for use in future projects.

Philamena Belone, 44

December 16, 2020.

Wingate Elementary School, Fort Wingate, NM

Third Grade

CNN:

Even when she was hospitalized for Covid-19 and pneumonia for three days, Philamena Belone wanted to get home so she could resume doing what she loved most — teaching.

Belone led Zoom classes for behaviorally challenged students during the day and worked with those who had no internet at night via phone, her brother Phillip Belone told CNN. After the hospitalization, the third-grade teacher taught while wearing an oxygen mask from her home in Albuquerque, New Mexico.

“I know that she kept wanting to go home to teach. She wanted to be with the kids that she was teaching,” Phillip Belone said. “She was actually on oxygen teaching when she would have been in the hospital, but her condition got to the point where she couldn’t physically breathe.”

Philamena Belone returned to the hospital almost two weeks later on November 28, her brother said. A week after that, she was put on a ventilator in a last-ditch effort to save her life.

But on December 11, the previously healthy 44-year-old passed away at the Lovelace Medical Center in Albuquerque. She leaves behind three children and one grandchild, as well as her parents, brother and sister.

The Belone family and many of the students the teacher served are part of the Navajo Nation in New Mexico.

It’s a community that’s been hard hit by the virus. The Navajo Nation was a prominent hot spot for Covid-19 in the United States earlier this year. In May, it surpassed New York and New Jersey for the highest per capita infection rate.

The Navajo Department of Health reported 20,095 cases and 731 deaths as of Wednesday. It has a population of 173,667, according to US Census data.

Philamena Belone gave her heart to her students and she did everything she could to meet them on their level, her brother said.

“The most difficult students were given to my sister,” Belone said with a laugh. “She taught kids everyone gave up on but her. She never gave up on anyone.”

Belone was a teacher at Wingate Elementary School in Fort Wingate, New Mexico, about two hours west of Albuquerque. Her school confirmed her death in a statement to CNN.

“Her smile radiated throughout her classroom and her laughter could be heard echoing down the hallways,” Principal Eric North said. “She always had a kind word for others who came across her path, whether in the cafeteria, at the buses or on the playground. Her energy and sense of humor were contagious.”

During the pandemic, Philamena Belone taught virtual classes, her brother said. However, many of her Navajo students did not have access to reliable internet, he said.

As a result, Belone said his sister would drive to two hours each way every week and leave class materials at the school for her students.

She customized the materials for each one, he said. She created paper copies for some students, while others had laptops but no internet, so she made them flash drives that contained the materials. Other students could get online only from their parents’ phones at night, so she worked nights to meet their needs.

“She provided arts and crafts, little personal notes and mementos specific to each child,” Belone said. “She went above and beyond in teaching her kids through either phone calls, internet when it was available, and building the hard copies for all of her coursework for the week.”

Belone estimates his sister was working 70 hours a week. She did it because she loved the students and wanted to make each of them feel special, her brother said.

“A lot of the kids she worked with didn’t have the best upbringing, so she would always go on another level personally to engage with them and be a big sister or an aunt to them,” he said.

“My sister had some tough circumstances in her life also, so she had a special connection with behaviorally challenged kids,” Belone said. “She would love to connect with the kids and make them happy. That was her reward.”

Philamena Belone started feeling unwell November 12, her brother said. The symptoms were minimal at first, but a persistent cough landed her in the emergency room. Doctors diagnosed her with Covid-19 and pneumonia.

Doctors gave her oxygen and she stayed there for three days, but her yearning to get back to teaching was strong, her brother said.

She went home with an oxygen tank and mask, pushing to keep teaching until the end of the school term, her brother said. Her youngest son had been living with his mother but he left the house while his mother was quarantining.

Within two weeks, she had gotten worse and was taken back to the Albuquerque hospital.

Philamena Belone was a runner and someone who loved to exercise. Her brother found it unbelievable that she had to be placed on a ventilator December 6, he said.

The family also understood what the ventilator meant — Belone lost his aunt and uncle to the virus after both had been on ventilators, he said.

They thought Philamena Belone would be OK. “Prior to that she was a healthy and vibrant, good soul who we never expected would be in this situation,” Belone said.

She kept fighting and reassuring her family she would be OK, he said. Philamena Belone never wanted anyone to “fuss” about her and was a very private person, he said.

“We didn’t know that it came to such a dramatic circumstance until after she was physically admitted the second time,” Belone said. “I was under the impression that she was still going to be fine and the symptoms weren’t that bad. She hid all of that very well from all of us.”

The family said doctors found blood clots in her lungs and discovered she had a collapsed lung. She also went into kidney failure and required dialysis.

“I saw her at her worst but understood that she fought her heart out and she was ready to rest,” he said. Ultimately, her family made the heart-wrenching decision to remove her from the ventilator.

“After we made the decision … I was literally numb,” Belone said. “I had no feeling in my body. I didn’t know if I was dreaming or I didn’t know what was real.”

When she wasn’t in the classroom, Philamena Belone enjoyed horseback riding, hunting, crafting and traveling. She also loved to dance, spending time to teach her students some moves, her brother said.

But most of all, “she loved children,” her brother said.

Philamena Belone was a devoted, loving mother to three children.”Her children are absolutely devastated by the loss of their precious sweet mom,” Belone said.

Mekaile Belone, 27, Quionna, 22, and Dion Dotson, 19, are now missing their mother’s love and support. She also left behind a 4-year-old granddaughter, Mila.

The family created a GoFundMe campaign to help cover the cost of Philamena Belone’s funeral. They met their fundraising goal within 48 hours, her brother said.

But what Belone will miss most about his sister is her smile with her “beautiful dimple on her right cheek.”

“Everyone’s going to miss her big vibrant contagious smile. Everyone’s going to miss her laugh,” he said. “What I’m going to miss most about her is her willingness to make people happy at whatever cost it took.”

Belone said he knows he’s not alone in the loss he and his family have felt because of the pandemic.

“Philamena’s story is not unique,” Belone said. “We should be focusing on all the stories, all of the hundreds of thousands of people, all of the millions of people in our country who have been affected by this.”

If anything, Belone hopes that people can learn from his sister’s life of service and giving.

“She would have wanted everyone to love one another and not judge one another, to see the best in everyone and to do whatever they could to make the world a better place,” he said. “That was her legacy.”

Choua Lee Yang, 53

Died October 9, 2020.

Prairie Seeds Academy, Brooklyn Park, MN

Principal

Obituary:

Yang, Choua Lee 53, passed away on Friday, October 9, 2020 with her family by her side in Minneapolis, MN. She endured over a month-long battle with COVID-19.

Choua was born on October 30, 1966 in San Luang, Laos. In 1978, she came to America and resided in Syracuse, NY. She married her husband Cha Ger Yang in 1985 and moved to MN in 1995 where she lived for the remainder of her life. Choua received numerous degrees up to her Master’s Degree at Saint Mary’s University in Educational Administration and K-12 Licensure. Choua discovered her passion for education when she began her teaching journey in 1996 as a bilingual Social Studies and Hmong Literacy teacher at Folwell Middle School.

In 2004, she became a Project Coordinator at Jenny Lind Elementary School. She moved on to become the Principal of St. Paul Family Learning Center in 2006. Choua returned to the Minneapolis Public School District as the Assistant Principal at North High School and then the ELL Director at the Minneapolis Schools Central Office.

One of Choua’s most valued accomplishments is when she founded and built Prairie Seeds Academy in 2004, a Hmong charter school in Brooklyn Park, MN. Choua, who was CEO, was a visionary and dedicated educator. Choua loved life. She was an extraordinary woman who saw the best in people. She was always able to lift others with her humor and high spirits. She faced challenges and obstacles with a smile and always trusted that everything happened for a reason.

To many, she was a light and a devoted friend. Her entire life was dedicated to serving others. For those that know her, know that she was selfless and had the kindest heart. She was so loved and will be missed by many.

Choua is survived by her husband, Cha Ger Yang; her children and their spouses, Crystal and Mong Vang, Jonathan and Teena Yang, Timothy and Betty Yang, Mychael and Foua Yang, and Amber and Kuh Chang; her grandchildren, Sean Yang, Alyssa Vang, Gavin Yang, Taylor Yang, Chloe Vang, Feyona Yang, Evelyn Yang, Ellie Vang, Roy Chang, Gwendalyn Yang, Chelsea Vang, Mychelle Yang, Miles Yang, and Parker Chang; her stepmother, Chao Thao Lee; her siblings and their spouses, Lymay and Chong Chou Ku, Matrix and Chente Lee, Alex and Jasmine Lee, Nhia and Patrick Clarke, Pahoua Lee, Mousa and Mao Lee, Shoua and Chong Lee, Mouda and See Lee; and many nieces and nephews. Choua is preceded in death by her parents, Pheng and Phomma Lee. kozlakradulovich.com “A Celebration of Life” 763-783-1100

George Bures, 73

Died September 23, 2020.

Nekoosa School District, Nekoosa, WI

Substitute Teacher

Obituary:

George Bures, age 71, passed away on September 23, 2020 at Aspirus Wausau Hospital due to Covid-19 with no pre-existing or underlying conditions.

George was born on July 6th, 1949 in Elgin, IL to the late Claire (Walter) and George Bures, Sr. He grew up in Fox River Grove, Illinois and graduated from Cary-Grove High School in 1967. He attended UW-Stevens Point where he graduated with a bachelor’s degree in Music Education. George was united in marriage to his wife, Karen, on July 21st, 1973 at St. Vincent de Paul Church in Wisconsin Rapids.

George was a Senior Systems Analyst at Sentry Insurance and First Financial Bank in Stevens Point, Wisconsin before he left the corporate world to pursue a career in teaching. He spent 17 years as a band director in the Tomorrow River School District in Amherst, Wisconsin, and after retirement, continued to work as a substitute teacher for the Nekoosa School District. George also spent countless hours on the football field as a referee, officiating games for teams of all ages, from Rapids Raptors youth football to Division I WIAA Varsity football games.

George’s greatest gift was as a teacher, which extended far beyond the classroom and the podium as a band director. He loved to teach his grandsons how to fish and hunt and enjoyed special trips to Canada each summer with Karen and his “boys”. He also enjoyed his summers with Karen, entertaining friends and family by the pool, gardening, and attending many of his grandsons’ sporting events. In winter, George was usually found on a black diamond slope at Granite Peak ski hill, his favorite winter pass time. He was a nationally certified ski patrol and instructor, and was looking forward to another season at the hill this year.

George also spent time giving back to his community. He was an active member of Elks Lodge 693 in Wisconsin Rapids and served in many leadership roles, including Exalted Ruler in 2013-14 and 2015-16.

George is survived by his wife, Karen; daughters Cara (fiancé Ryan Parker) and Krista (Josh) Hafenbredl; grandsons Keagan and Carter Christy, Ethan and Alex Hafenbredl; brother Mark (Julie) Bures of Cary, IL; niece Maggie Bures of Chicago, IL; nephew Andy Bures of North Aurora, IL; and great-nephews Joey and Will Bures of North Aurora, IL.

Our family would like to thank Dr. Kris Lahren and all of the amazing nurses and caregivers in the Covid ICU Unit at Wausau Aspirus Hospital who took such extraordinary and compassionate care of George since due to restrictions we were not able to be by his side.

Raul Alvarado, 53

Died December 10, 2020.

Walden Grove High School, Sahuarita, AZ

Campus Monitor

Obituary:

Raul “Ralph” Alvarado, 53 passed away on Thursday, December 10, 2020. He was born February 3, 1967 in Kingman, AZ & grew up in Seligman, AZ. He was a very loving son, brother, husband, father & grandfather. He is survived by: wife Rosie Alvarado, daughters Danielle & Alecia of Winslow, AZ, son Adrian of Sahuarita, AZ, grandchildren Layla, Roy, Madianna, Preston & Mia who he loved dearly; brothers Arthur (Margaret), Daniel (Joy), Paul (Cecilia), John; sisters Irma (Henry), Mercy, Irene, sister-in-law Erlinda, and many aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. He is preceded in death by his mother & father, Manuel & Maria Alvarado and his brother, Manuel de Jesus Alvarado.

Raul retired from the Arizona Department of Corrections, where he worked in Winslow and Tucson. Arizona. He was currently employed as Campus Monitor for Walden Grove High School in Sahuarita, AZ where he touched the lives of so many students, staff, friends and the Sahuarita Community.

He loved running, hunting with his brothers & nephews, and spending time with family and friends and watching his son play football. Raul was a great man who touched the lives of everyone he encountered. He will always be remembered for his big smile, vibrant laughter and great stories. He was a very loving person and will be greatly missed by all.

On behalf of the family, we would like to thank everyone for the love and support they have shown during this very difficult time. We ask you to pray for his family now as they cope with this immense loss.

John Krol, 40

Died December 20, 2020.

Swift Creek Middle School, Clayton, NC

Mathematics, Science, Football and Baseball Coach

Local news:

A longtime Johnston County teacher and coach died Sunday from COVID-19 complications, say friends and colleagues now mourning his death.

John Krol, 40, taught seventh grade science at Swift Creek Middle School in Clayton. He died after experiencing a blood clot in his lung, principal Kerri Evans said in an email.

Lisa Krol told CBS17 her husband had a temperature and felt tired last week but continued to teach online.

“It’s his calling. Like teaching, coaching,” shr told the station. “He loved what he did and he loved his school and he loved his students.”

Krol’s death comes as COVID-19 cases, hospitalizations and deaths continue to rise across North Carolina and the country.

At Swift Creek, 11 students and four staff members are under active quarantines, according to the Johnston County Public Schools dashboard.

Johnston County’s schools had in-person classes until the beginning of December, but reverted to online learning at least until Jan. 15, after the N.C. Department of Health and Human Services determined the county had critical community spread based on its case rate, percentage of positive cases and the impact on hospitals.

“He (Krol) has been an integral part of who we are today because of his commitment and dedication to students through teaching, coaching and mentoring at Swift Creek and the greater community,” Evans said in a statement. “The passing of Mr. Krol is a loss for our Swift Creek Wolf PACK and he will be greatly missed by our staff, students, and community.”

Krol, a father to five children, began teaching at Clayton Middle School after he moved to Johnston County from Ohio in 2003. He taught at McGee’s Crossroads Middle School for many years before joining Swift Creek when it opened in 2017. He was its head coach for football and baseball.

“I’m talking to several of his colleagues and friends and we are still struggling with this,” Krol’s friend John Wood wrote in a text message.

John was one of the most positive, loving, compassionate people I’ve ever known, and he loved ALL of his students,” wrote Wood, who taught with Krol at McGee’s Crossroads. “This is just a horrible, senseless tragedy,”

FAMILY IN QUARANTINE

Lisa Krol had written in a Facebook post that the family was quarantining Dec. 19.

“We kind of thought everybody was probably OK from her being casual about the post,” said April Jones Lee, a friend and former coworker. But Krol began having trouble breathing, his health declined quickly and he died Sunday, Lee said.

Lee and Krol taught sixth- and seventh-grade geography and math at McGee’s Crossroads. Their children were friends, too.

“He was an encourager and concentrated on their (the students’) potential and not letting each other down and not letting them fail,” Lee said. “Whatever he did in the classroom was also reflected in his life and the kind of person he was.”

Lee said it is going to be very difficult for students and the community.

“You can’t lose a member of a school family, the community without acknowledging it and dealing with the emotions of the kids who are in his classes,” she said. “And I know Johnston County Public Schools will do a phenomenal job of having support in the building when kids come back. It’s going to be a hard day.”

Lee is also the president of the Johnston County Association of Educators. Krol’s death has been hard on teachers as well.

“We’re just incredibly sad, and at the same time, we’re incredibly angry,” because nobody mentions the adults in conversations about reopening schools, she said. “We have families with children and fathers and mothers.”

“I want us to be open. I just want us to be able to open safely. I don’t want to think that we can lose somebody else,” Lee said.

DECIDING WHETHER TO REOPEN SCHOOLS

Lee hopes the decision about whether or not to reopen Johnston County schools after Jan. 15 is based on data.

Johnston County has had more than 10,000 COVID-19 cases, according to the county’s website. There had been 97 deaths and 62 people currently hospitalized as of Monday. Roughly 1,500 children in the county have tested positive.

Tristen Alexander, 21, one of Kroll’s former seventh-graders, said he remembers Krol fondly as a coach.

Alexander played soccer and ran track at McGee’s Crossroads. He described Krol cheering the team on from the sidelines during matches.

“No matter what the score, he would say, ‘Just go out there, have the best time you can,’” Alexander said. “He is probably the best coach I’ve had.”

Alexander said Krol taught him lessons he will never forget. One day, the soccer players messed up some equipment in the gym. It was not immediately clear who did it. Instead of identifying a single person to punish, Krol taught the boys to be a team by making all of them do sprints as a punishment.

Amy Peterson, president of Swift Creek’s Parent Teacher Student Association, said Krol taught her son science in the seventh grade.

“I’m going to miss seeing him,” she said. “He was one of those funny (teachers), always keeping things entertained.”

Krol gave his students tough love, but always let them know he cared, Peterson said.

“My soon-to-be fifth-grader will be going there (Swift Creek),” she added. “I wish he could have been there.”

A GoFundMe has been set up to cover Krol’s funeral arrangements and future expenses for his family at tinyurl.com/yccunn2z.

Krol’s family has asked for cards or notes written to Krol’s children about how he has impacted people in the community, Evans wrote in an email to Swift Creek parents. Cards can be mailed to Swift Creek Middle School, 325 Norris Road, Clayton, NC 27520 (attention Krol Memorial) or dropped off after Jan. 4.

Dale Wiersum, 69

Died December 6, 2020.

Cheboygan Area Schools, Cheboygan, MI

Bus Driver

Local news:

Karen Wiersum recently lost her husband Dale due to COVID-19 complications.

They met each other 29 years ago and the two soon fell in love. “I had a wonderful husband,” she said. “He loved everybody and he had so many friends in Cheboygan. He was so good to me, took care of me and everything. When I’d go to bed at night, he’d always tuck me in. Every night.”

Dale Wiersum started working for Cheboygan Schools as a bus driver seven years ago.

Karen was in for a surprise on Tuesday when 23 Cheboygan school buses started passing by her house, honking and waiving.

hey also presented her with a folded Navy flag to honor Dale, a Navy veteran.

Once Karen saw all of the buses heading her way, she became emotional. “I’m shocked. It was wonderful to have all those buses come through. That was really nice,” she said.

Karen said her husband was always someone who could improve anyone’s day. “Music would come on the TV and we’d be in the kitchen and he’d get me up and dance with me in the kitchen. We both loved dancing,” she said.

Student Transportation Director with Cheboygan Schools, Tammy Cage says Dale was just a joy to work with. “All of the drivers go along with him wonderfully,” she said. He has a lot of friends and, well family, our bus garage family.”

One of Dale’s coworkers, Demi Posh said he was more than just someone she worked with. “He was a friend first,” she said. “Always giving, thoughtful, generous, sincere. There’s not enough words to describe what kind of man Dale was. Everybody went before him. Always.”

His friends and family said his only flaw was that he didn’t enjoy condiments on his meals, and that’s all.

Marilyn Foshee, 81

Died December 15, 2020.

Trinity Christian Academy, Jacksonville, FL

Preschool Teacher

Local news:

A Jacksonville, Florida, preschool is left reeling over the holidays after losing two members of its staff.

The beloved women were also closely related.

Marilyn Foshee, 81, and her daughter, Julie Foshee-Knowell, 41, were longtime employees at Trinity Christian Academy. Both were diagnosed with COVID-19 in late November and died within days of each other.

Foshee-Knowell, the preschool director, died on Sunday. Her mother, a teacher, died Dec. 15.

“I think this is a time that you come together and you recommit yourself to the mission of what Julie and Marilyn were all about, and that is being selfless and in the sense that you give yourself away to other people,” Trinity spokesman Pastor Tom Messer told The Florida Times Union of the double tragedy.

A GoFundMe page was initially set up by one of Julie’s friends, Angie Dennard, to help offset just Marilyn Foshee’s funeral costs. Now the money will go toward two services.

Dennard updated the fundraising page on Sunday hours after the news of Foshee-Knowell’s passing due to coronavirus complications.

“Thank you to all who have donated so far. I know that her brother [Ray Foshee] would appreciate us all helping him out during this difficult time in his life,” wrote Dennard. “Julie and her mom will be missed by all. Let’s continue to lift her family up in prayers.”

As of midday Wednesday, $6,780 had been reached of the $10,000 goal.

Julie Foshee-Knowell, 44

Died December 20, 2020.

Trinity Christian Academy, Jacksonville, FL

Preschool Director

Local news:

A Jacksonville, Florida, preschool is left reeling over the holidays after losing two members of its staff.

The beloved women were also closely related.

Foshee-Knowell, the preschool director, died on Sunday. Her mother, a teacher, died Dec. 15.

A GoFundMe page was initially set up by one of Julie’s friends, Angie Dennard, to help offset just Marilyn Foshee’s funeral costs. Now the money will go toward two services.

Dennard updated the fundraising page on Sunday hours after the news of Foshee-Knowell’s passing due to coronavirus complications.

As of midday Wednesday, $6,780 had been reached of the $10,000 goal.

Elaine Harrison, 64

Died December 16, 2020.

Parnell Elementary School, Jasper, TX

Math Interventionlist

Obituary:

The world changed on Wednesday, December 16, 2020 when Elaine passed away at St. Elizabeth’s Hospital after a courageous three week battle with Coronavirus.

Elaine loved unconditionally.

Elaine was born and raised in Jasper, Texas. She was a 1975 graduate of Jasper High School and graduated from Lamar University in 2000 with a Bachelor of Science degree. Elaine taught school in Jasper for over 30 years at Parnell Elementary. She had a gift and passion for teaching and was honored as 2015-2016 Teacher of the Year. She enjoyed spending time with family, spoiling the kids, playing dominos, popping her famous salty popcorn, making the world’s best grilled cheese sandwiches, making hair bows and watching Hallmark movies. Elaine loved the Lord. She was a lifetime member of Jasper Church of Christ, and she loved her church family. She was a leader in church functions and always gave generously giving of her time and teaching skills.

She is survived by her sister, Evelyn Harrison of Jasper, Texas; brother, Bruce Harrison & wife Nancy of the Woodlands, Texas; four nieces, Heather Trevino & husband Paul, Hilary & husband Jeff Dunn, Hayley Scott, M.D., and Shannon Harrison; and nine great-nieces and nephews.

She is preceded in death by her parents Audry and Pat Harrison and two brothers, Sammy and Keith Harrison.

Donations may be made to Jasper Church of Christ Elaine Harrison Memorial Pavilion Fund, P. O. Box 2243, Jasper, Texas.

The family is accepting donations to honor Elaine by constructing a covered area for children to play and picnic at the Jasper Church of Christ. Donations can be made to the Jasper Church of Christ Elaine Harrison memorial pavilion fund or online via go fund me https://gofund.me/7a328947

Phillip Jimenez, 49

Died December 22, 2020.

Sam Houston High School, San Antonio, TX

Special Education, Football Coach

Local news:

Considered a father figure to many of the athletes at Sam Houston, Hurricanes assistant football coach Phil Jimenez died Tuesday morning.

He was 49.

Jimenez had been hospitalized with COVID-19 since Dec. 15 and had been on a ventilator since Dec. 17. On Tuesday, Jimenez went into cardiac arrest and died.

“We’re heartbroken and devastated,” said Debra Jimenez-Munoz, Phil’s sister. “We were really praying for a miracle. We knew the chances were slim. We feel robbed. COVID’s taken a lot of people, and now, my brother.”

Jimenez was the youngest of four children. After graduating from Burbank in 1989, Jimenez attended Southwest Texas State (now Texas State), to study acting. After pursuing that field for several years, Jimenez contacted his defensive line coach at Burbank — George De Leon — about what he needed to do to get into coaching.

De Leon told him he needed to get a teaching certificate. And once he did that, he eventually made his way to the Sam Houston football staff seven years ago when he became De Leon’s coaching colleague with the Hurricanes.

De Leon first became acquainted Jimenez at Burbank when he needed a nose guard to fill a varsity spot for a scrimmage against Judson.

“They told me he was a freshman, and I said I don’t care,” said De Leon, who retired last year. “From what I’ve seen the last two weeks, he does a good job, and he’s very good at it. … He wasn’t the best defensive tackle I’ve ever had, but he was the best you could ask for when the time came. He rose to the occasion. He was tough and he was smart. That was the thing. You taught him one thing, and he knew it.”

Quincy Stewart, who just completed his first season as the Hurricanes’ head coach said Jimenez made an immediate impression on him when he first arrived at the Sam Houston campus.

“His love for Sam and the relationship-building ability with the community just spoke volumes to me,” Stewart said. “He was truly loved by the community and the school and he was a real big asset to my coaching staff.”

Jimenez-Munoz said her brother found coaching to be a rewarding profession.

“He was a father figure for many of the kids that perhaps didn’t even have a father or much of a home life,” Jimenez-Munoz said. “He was influential for many.”

Stewart said Jimenez carried an upbeat demeanor.

“Phil always had a smile on his face no matter what the day was or how the day went,” Stewart said. “He’d always say, ‘Coach, there’s a brighter side to these things.’ He always made sure that you would see the brighter things.”

Jimenez was the defensive line coach in football and coached baseball, soccer and track.

“We’re dealing with it tough,” Stewart said. “It’s going to be hard to move on with somebody who meant so much to our program.”

Jimenez-Munoz said the school is planning a memorial service and planting a tree in his name. The team will wear a “PJ” patch on their uniforms next season.

“This is not a thing we’ll let go,” Stewart said. “He’ll be on our coaching staff for a while, and we’ll honor him in everything we do as long as I’m at Sam Houston.”

Michelle Suire, 53

Died December 22, 2020.

S.J. Montgomery Elementary School, Lafayette, LA

Special Education

Obituary:

Funeral Services will be held on Wednesday, December 30th, at 12:00 P.M. in La Chapelle de Martin & Castille, for Michelle Murphy Suire, 53, who passed away on Tuesday, December 22, 2020 at Ochsner Lafayette General Medical Center in Lafayette. The family requests that visitation be observed in Martin & Castille’s downtown location on December 30th from 10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. A Rosary will be prayed at 11:00 a.m. in the funeral home.

Survivors include her children, Olivia Suire and Landon Suire, and their father, Trent Suire; her parents, George and Cheryl Murphy; her brother, George and his wife Amanda, and their three children, Tyler, Grant and Georgia; her sister, Monica and her daughter, Nia Claire; her Godfather, Terrell “Uncle Chubby” Melancon; and her friend, Stuart Colomb.

Gone too soon, Michelle was a loving mother, daughter, sister, aunt, teacher and friend. A graduate of Teurlings Catholic High, Michelle served in the United States Navy prior to graduating from ULL with a BA in Education. Michelle found her calling as a teacher, specifically an Inclusion Special Education teacher, focusing her love and attention on her wonderful students at SJ Montgomery Elementary School.

Above all, Michelle loved her children, Olivia and Landon. Traveling with her children, occasionally spontaneously to points undetermined, were some of her life’s most treasured moments. Beyond her children, she loved to spend time planting beautiful, colorful flowers throughout her yard, decorating her home, and her genuine love of animals proving to be the saving grace for more than a few stray dogs and cats.

A beautiful soul, Michelle leaves behind a loving family and friends, all of whom were blessed to have had her in their lives. She will be missed dearly, and she will always be loved.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests contributions be made to Lafayette Animal Aid, Hospice of Acadiana or a charity of your choice.

Tim Rygh, 49

Died December 22, 2020.

Century Elementary School, Grand Forks, ND

Fifth Grade

Local news:

Tim Rygh, a fifth-grade teacher at Century Elementary School, died Tuesday evening, Dec. 22, from COVID-19 at Altru Hospital. He was 49.

Rygh was hospitalized Nov. 8, struggling to breathe because of COVID-19 and bilateral pneumonia, according to a post on the GoFundMe page for a fund drive, organized by Lindsey Johnson, to help the family with medical expenses.

In a Facebook post, Rygh’s wife, Stacey, said her husband battled COVID-19 pneumonia for 44 days in the hospital. He had been on a ventilator for about a month.

“Our hearts are broken as Tim Rygh took his final breath tonight, December 22, 2020, at 8:37 p.m. We can only imagine the beauty and glory that he experienced as he received his miracle of complete healing, running down the streets of gold, into the arms of Jesus,” she said in the post.

“We will miss him forever, and covet your prayers for our family during this excruciating time of pain and loss,” Stacey Rygh said.

Visitation has been set for 12:30 to 2 p.m. Jan. 2, followed by a funeral service at 2 p.m., at Faith Evangelical Free Church in Grand Forks.

The family wishes to say, “as final words, ‘Thank you so much to the Greater Grand Forks community that has supported them, because they have felt their encouragement,’ ” said Pastor Keith Becker, a longtime friend of the Rygh family, who has served as pastor and now serves as area director of Grand Forks Young Life.

“If people wish to support the family through the GoFundMe page, they would be incredibly grateful,” said Becker, who was asked to speak to local news media on behalf of the Rygh family.

“They want to communicate that ‘we’re so thankful that every day with Tim was a good day,’ ” Becker said. “And their charge to all the people is to remember Tim’s mantra, ‘Love God and love people.’ ”

His Christian faith was so important, “because it gave Tim the hope that there is a promise of eternal life that gives purpose to this life on Earth,” Becker said.

Rygh, who is survived by his wife, Stacey, and children, Brayden, Sophie and Sadie, is known by many in the community as a devout Christian, loyal husband, loving father and beloved teacher.

“He leads by example with his calm demeanor and integrity and is highly respected in the Grand Forks community,” Lindsey Johnson wrote on the GoFundMe page. “He truly lives his life to serve others.”

During his hospital stay, Rygh’s battle with COVID-19 included “quite a few complications,” Johnson said, some of which required emergency surgery and medical procedures.

Rygh has been employed by Grand Forks Public Schools since August 1995.

A former student, Kayla Hipsher said in a Facebook post: “Mr. Rygh was my 4th grade teacher. He was so kind and funny. He was a (sic) amazing teacher.”

Heather Kremer wrote: “Mr. Rygh taught me how to not only be a leader but to give back to others.”

Pete Berg wrote: “Tim was one of the first people I met when I moved into the dorms at UND 30 years ago. He’s the guy everybody loves; someone you just WANT to be friends with. We lost touch over the years, but you never, ever forget a person like him.”

Early Wednesday, Dec. 23, staff members of Century Elementary School were notified of Rygh’s death and given an opportunity to come together virtually to share memories and offer mutual support, Tracy Jentz, communications coordinator for Grand Forks Public Schools, said in an email to the Herald.

“Employees also personally reached out to the families of Mr. Rygh’s students and will provide a similar virtual gathering opportunity to all Century fifth-grade families,” Jentz said.

Also Wednesday, all Century Elementary families and GFPS employees were notified of Rygh’s death, she said.

Patrick Key, 53

Died December 25, 2020.

Hendricks Elementary School, Powder Springs, GA

Fine Arts

Local news:

A Cobb County elementary school teacher died Friday after his month-long battle with COVID-19.

Patrick Key, who taught art at Hendricks Elementary School in Powder Springs, died Christmas Day, according to his wife Priscella Key.

Priscella Key, who teaches at Clay-Harmony Leland Elementary in Mableton, told The Atlanta Journal-Constitution on Christmas Day that she has “lost my world and my heart is shattered.”

“Patrick was the kindest, sweetest, most gentle man that never wished harm on anyone,” she said. “The world has truly lost a very good person.”

A GoFundMe page created by fellow Cobb teacher Merry Mullins to help the Key family with medical bills carried the news.

“Christmas morning Heaven gained the sweetest angel this morning,” Mullins wrote on the page. “Although he fought so very hard, Patrick’s poor body was so tired. He is at peace and we have lost our world. Our hearts are shattered. Please don’t call me as I can’t talk and need some time.”

After feeling ill on Nov. 6, Key was admitted Nov. 15 to WellStar Kennestone Hospital’s intensive care unit after he began struggling to breathe. Within days of his illness, his wife also became sick with COVID-19. Priscella Key’s illness wasn’t as severe, so she was allowed to recuperate and recover at home.

Patrick Key is one of three known Cobb County educators who have been hospitalized with COVID-19. Dana Johnson, a Kemp Elementary School first-grade teacher, is in the intensive care unit at WellStar Paulding Hospital after she was admitted on Dec. 6. Jacob Furse, a Garrett Middle School chorus and drama teacher, has been hospitalized for a week at WellStar Kennestone Hospital’s unit reserved for COVID patients.

As of Thursday, Cobb County had 34,247 COVID-19 cases, 539 deaths and 2,321 hospitalizations, according to the state Department of Public Health. The county’s two-week case number per 100,000 people is 634, six times higher than what’s considered high community spread, DPH reports.

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Ronald Payne, 57

Gloria Gonzales, 71

Arethia Tilford, 56

Cynthia Torbett, 55

Terri Sherwin, 60

Sandra Robinson, 63

Tammy Cannon, 52

Tom Russell, 61

James Coy, 71

Dana Hall, 55

Carmen Enriquez Chavez, 64

Pamela Podany, 67

Thomas Barnabo, 57

Jeremy Morgan, 44

Jeremy LeJeune, 44

Sharon Schuldt, 67

Keith Henry, 54

Tim Gilbert, 60

Ellis Booth, 55

Philamena Belone, 44

Damacio Bernal, 64

Gloria Garza, 55

Jamie Sheffield, 60

Joyce Parker, 59

Grover Casey, 44

Connie Williams, 63

Choua Lee Yang, 53

George Bures, 73

Raul Alvarado, 53

John Krol, 40

FAMILY IN QUARANTINE

DECIDING WHETHER TO REOPEN SCHOOLS

Dale Wiersum, 69

Marilyn Foshee, 81

Julie Foshee-Knowell, 44

Elaine Harrison, 64

Phillip Jimenez, 49

Michelle Suire, 53

Tim Rygh, 49

Kenneth McVay, 57

Michael Angelo, 62

Patrick Key, 53