Walters Funeral Home, Madisonville Funeral Home, Buffalo Funeral Home

03/20/2026

Winter is past. Spring has come. After long and difficult winters, spring is a welcome change. Do you have any plans for this spring that you're looking forward to?

03/17/2026

Wanda Marie Callahan

Wanda Marie Callahan, 81, of Iola, Texas, passed away on March 14, 2026, in Iola, Texas. She was born on June 13, 1944, to William Junior and Marjorie (McGill) Gressett in Navasota, Texas.

Wanda was known for her infectious laughter and vibrant personality. She had a unique gift for bringing people together and was truly the life of any gathering. Her warmth and kindness shone brightly, making even the ordinary moments feel extraordinary. She was also a proud and loving grandmother, who delighted in sharing her wisdom and warmth with her family.

Wanda was preceded in death by both of her parents. She is survived by her son, Sean Callahan (Robin) of Iola, Texas; granddaughters, Sierra Gilbreath (Keith) of College Station, Texas and Paige Callahan (Kalem Wilson) of College Station, Texas.

A funeral service for Wanda will be 11 A.M., Friday, March 20, 2026, at Madisonville Funeral Home, Madisonville, Texas. Bro. Glenn Connor will officiate the service. Visitation will be from 10 A.M. until time of the service.

Pallbearers: Scottie Gressett, Keith Gilbreath, Kalem Wilson, Elijah Gerzik, John Gerzik, Micah Gerzik

Arrangements are under the direction of Madisonville Funeral Home, Madisonville, Texas -- A Walters Family Funeral Home.

View Wanda Marie Callahan's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

03/17/2026

The color green has long been associated with Ireland, so it makes perfect sense that we should wear green to honor St. Patrick's Day. Do you wear anything special to celebrate St. Patrick's Day?

03/16/2026

03/13/2026

Have you ever wondered what happens during an arrangement conference for a funeral? This article shares a few tips on what to expect and how you can prepare ahead of time.

Do you know what to expect at a funeral arrangement conference? Read over these tips so you can prepare for the conversation ahead of time.

03/12/2026

Richard Joel Tidwell

Affectionately known as PaPa, Sweetheart, RJ, Dad, Dick, Dickie, Rich, Little Brother, Uncle, Papa Richard, Grandpa Richard, and simply Richard—passed away on Saturday morning, February 14, 2026, with his wife, son and sister-in-law beside him as he entered the presence of the Lord.

A fifth-generation Texan, he was born on May 23, 1943, in Corsicana, Navarro County, Texas, to Richard Wheeler Tidwell and Jonnie Evelyn Arnett. He grew up in Texas, attending Stephen F. Austin High School in Houston and later the University of Houston. On May 3, 1963, he married the love of his life, Carol Jean (Jeanie) Bullard, beginning a beautiful sixty-two-year marriage.

Richard will be remembered as one of the kindest and most genuine men many have ever known. He never met a stranger and had a rare gift for making every person feel seen, valued, and important. He truly listened, remembering details about jobs, family, school, and future plans and always followed up with sincere interest. A natural encourager and peacekeeper, he was quick to tell others how proud he was of them and often asked, “What can I do to help?” He faithfully served those around him with a steady, giving heart.

He built a successful career in management and sales in the reprographics industry, where he formed lifelong friendships and took great pride in mentoring and encouraging others. In retirement, he began a second career working alongside his son and daughter-in-law at LakeHouse.com, proudly serving as the company’s biggest fan.

He was a born-again believer in Jesus Christ and worshiped and served faithfully alongside his church family at Walnut Ridge Baptist Church. He loved his job in the Parking Ministry where he was able to greet people before they got to the front door and was able to assist in the handicap parking area. He was a strong supporter of the Heart & Hope 4 South Sudan ministry where he along with his wife served the refugees of South Sudan together in various ways.

He loved spending time at the deer lease with friends and was deeply proud of his family, often sharing stories of their accomplishments and adventures. Whether greeting someone with “There’s my girl,” laughing that he “got tickled,” or saying, “Hey, I got an idee,” Richard brought warmth and joy wherever he went.

He was preceded in death by his son, Joel Garland Tidwell; his brother, Gene Gilliam; brother, TD (Thomas) Neal and his parents, Richard Wheeler Tidwell and Jonnie Evelyn Arnett.

He is survived by his beloved wife of sixty-two years, Carol Jean (Jeanie) Bullard Tidwell; his son, Richard Kirk Tidwell and wife Wren Tidwell; his grandsons, Troy Tidwell (Megan) and Tyler Tidwell (Carrie); brother, Gerry Neal (Beverly) and numerous loving extended family members, along with many “adopted” sons, daughters, granddaughters, and grandsons in the USA and in Africa, they know who they are.

A Celebration of Life honoring Richard, officiated by our Sunday School teacher and Pastor David Groves of Walnut Ridge Baptist Church, Mansfield, Tx will be held in the chapel at the Madisonville Funeral Home on Saturday, March 21, 2026, at 10 A.M. An inurnment will follow in the Jozye Cemetery followed by lunch at the Woodbine Hotel.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be either mailed to Heart & Hope 4 South Sudan 1613 Chateau Ln., Mansfield, Texas, 76063 or made online at MercyShips.org.

Richard’s life was a gift to all who knew him, and he will forever hold a special place in our hearts.

Arrangements are under the compassionate care and direction of Madisonville Funeral Home, Madisonville, Texas.

View Richard Joel Tidwell's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

03/11/2026

Larry Joe “Big Head HUNNID” Harrison

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Larry Joe "Big Head HUNNID" Harrison, who left this world on March 2, 2026, on his seventy-second birthday. Born to Dave "OBoy" Harrison Jr. and Mabel (Carrington) Harrison in Madisonville, Texas, on March 2, 1954, Larry was a beacon of love and strength in his community and for his family.

An accomplished carpenter by trade, Larry dedicated his life to mastering his craft within the trucking industry. His impeccable work ethic and commitment to providing for his loved ones earned him the reputation of being a skilled money maker. He devoted himself fully to his family, often putting their needs above his own, making him a cherished father, uncle, and grandfather.

Larry's warmth and charm were boundless. He was outspoken and fearless in expressing his love and faith, often sharing his beliefs with those around him. Family gatherings became vibrant occasions, marked by his thoughtful nature and endless love. Larry showed his devotion not just in words, but through actions that echoed his caring heart.

Larry was preceded in death by his parents and brothers, David Earl Harrison and George Andrew Hopkins, Roy Gean Langford; and sisters, Alberta Hopkins and LaVern Ross. He is survived by his daughter, LaTonia Robertson, his grandchildren, Royalnisha Allen and JaDreon Robinson, great-grandchildren, Royal Fields and Roman Fields; his brother, LaDon Harrison; and aunt, Sharee Ivory Harriel Houston; along with a host of numerous nieces, nephews, and extended family.

A homegoing service for Larry will be 11 A.M., Saturday, March 14, 2026, at Madisonville Funeral Home, Madisonville, Texas. Pastor Toni Green will officiate the service. Interment will follow in West End Memorial Cemetery, Madisonville, Texas. Visitation will be from 10 A.M. until time of the service.

Pallbearers: JaDreon Robinson, R'Kelian "Ken Ken" Wiley, Lance Byrd, Stephen Craft, Joseph Harrison Jr., Fred Ross Jr.

Honorary Pallbearers: Trenton Harrison, Joseph Harrison, Mel Harrison, Richard Byrd, Kiylan Campbell, Fred Ross Sr.

Arrangements are under the direction of Madisonville Funeral Home, Madisonville, Texas -- A Walters Family Funeral Home.

View Larry Joe “Big Head HUNNID” Harrison's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

03/11/2026

Today, as we honor our funeral care colleagues around the country on National Funeral Director & Mortician Recognition Day, we want to say "thank you" for stepping into difficult situations, for offering kindness and compassion, and for going the extra mile for families in grief. Today is about you and making sure you know just how valuable you are to the community!

03/10/2026

Cremation is a popular choice for final disposition, but did you know it is still possible to have a service to honor your loved one?

You can hold a service to honor and commemorate their life before or after the cremation process occurs with a traditional funeral service or a simple memorial.

For more information about the importance of a ceremony and how to celebrate the life of your loved one with cremation, visit www.funeralbasics.org/cremation-importance-ceremony.

03/09/2026

Bobbie Rigby

Bobbie Merle (Bracewell) Rigby, born March 16, 1932, passed peacefully on March 7, 2026, leaving behind a legacy rooted in faith, love, and family. Her life was a testament to the quiet strength of a woman who built a home where everyone felt safe, welcomed, and deeply loved.

Just before her seventeenth birthday, Bobbie married the love of her life, beginning a partnership that would shape the rest of her days. Together they shared more than fifty years of marriage before she was widowed, a bond built on loyalty, hard work, and a shared dedication to their family.

In the early years of their marriage, Bobbie traveled the country with her husband E.C., affectionately known as “Daddy Jo,” as he worked as a pipe liner. With five young children and a trailer house, “Mama Jo” carried the heart of the family wherever the road led, making even the smallest space feel like home.

In 1965, her traveling years took an extended break and Bobbie did what she did best—she built a home that would become the center of family life for generations. Within those walls she raised her five children with patience, strength, and a love of God. Her home was never just a house; it was a place for her kids to turn to… and return to in times of joy and struggles.

Bobbie was never one to shy away from hard work. Whether it was working outdoors, tending to the responsibilities that came with country life, or managing the endless tasks of a homemaker.

Though her passing leaves a space that cannot be filled, the life she built continues in the family she raised and the traditions she created. Her legacy lives on in the laughter around family tables, in the stories still told, and in the love that binds her family together.

Bobbie was preceded in death by her parents, William Travis (WT) and Irene Bracewell; her brother, Charles Bracewell; her daughter-in-law, Sharon Rigby; and her grandson-in-law Kenny Meadors.

She is lovingly remembered by her children, Steve Rigby (Susan), David Rigby (Robin), Laura Hixson (Gary), Paul Rigby, and Lynda Cook (Wes). Bobbie was a proud grandmother to Steve’s children, Tammy, Tracy, Clint (Rachael), Courtney (Rayne), Brock, and Brooke (Michael); David’s children, David (Michelle), and Holly (Ryan); Laura’s children, Melissa (James), Meagan (Juan), and Steven (Liz); Paul’s children, Crissy (Bill), and Jonathan; and Lynda’s son, Dallas (Mikayla). Her legacy continues through her great-grandchildren: Elizabeth, Melody, Kaitlyn, Caroline, Kendall, Camille, Nolan, Owen, Blue, Scott, Emma, Laura Ashley, CJ, Tyler, Lexi, Travis, Luke, Destanie, Zoe, and Joseph. She was also blessed with great-great-grandchildren: Adrian, Claire, Brooks, Fable May, Charlotte Irene, Koral, Bryliee and Asher. Bobbie’s life reminds us that the truest legacy is not found in things, but in the love we give, the work we do for those we cherish, and the memories we leave behind.

A funeral service, officiated by Bro. Charlie Miller, will be held in Madisonville Funeral Home on Tuesday, March 10, 2026, at 1 P.M. Visitation will take place one hour before the service at 12 P.M. Burial will follow in the Bedias Methodist Cemetery in Bedias, Texas.

Pallbearers: Steven Stover, Clint Rigby, David Rigby, Jr., Jonathan Rigby, Brock Rigby, Dallas Gressett

Final arrangements for Bobbie Merle Rigby are under the compassionate care and direction of Madisonville Funeral Home, Madisonville, Texas.

View Bobbie Rigby's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

03/07/2026

Michael Joe Ashford

Michael Joe Ashford, born on May 29, 1956, in Houston, Texas, journeyed through life with a spirit of dedication and joy until his passing on March 5, 2026, in Buffalo, Texas. He departed this world peacefully, surrounded by the love of his family who cherished his every moment.

Michael devoted a significant part of his life to his career as a truck driver for Gulf State Toyota, a vocation that enabled him to traverse the vast expanses of the United States. Despite the miles that often separated him from his loved ones, he carried the weight of his responsibilities with pride, knowing that he was the unwavering provider for his family. His love was made evident in his unyielding commitment to ensuring that they were well taken care of.

Michael was known for his infectious humor and a delightful sense of wit. He possessed an extraordinary ability to light up a room, as those who encountered him quickly found themselves drawn into his engaging presence. A hallmark of his personality was his playful banter; if he teasingly poked fun at you, it was merely a sign that you had earned a special place in his heart. A true conversationalist, he never met a stranger, often making friends wherever he went.

Michael's passions extended beyond his professional life. He found joy in cooking, skillfully preparing bar-b-que and breakfast for his beloved family, reveling in the opportunity to bring them together over a comforting meal. His adventurous spirit also led him to ride his Harley motorcycle in his younger days, and he found exhilaration in NASCAR and dirt track racing, pursuits that brought excitement and camaraderie into his life.

He proudly served his country for two years in the US Army. This noble experience added another layer of respect to the multifaceted man he became.

Michael shared his life with a loving family who will carry forth his legacy. He is survived by his children, Marsha (Donald) Pleasant of Pollok, Texas; Mona Ashford of Lufkin, Texas; Angela Miller (Martin Taylor) of Bellville, Texas; Tammy (Robert) Patterson of Magnolia, Texas; and Michael Ashford of Buffalo, Texas. His grandchildren, Sheldon, Dalton, Jacob, Jordan, Lacie, Morgan, Jaden, and Ethan, along with eight great-grandchildren, provided him boundless joy. He also leaves behind his brother, Lonnie Ashford of New Waverly, Texas, and sisters, Cheryl McDaniel of New Waverly, Texas; Lois Hatten of Dayton, Texas; and Freida Blackwell of Casper, Wyoming, alongside numerous extended family and friends who will forever cherish the memories created with him.

Michael was preceded in death by his parents, Johnnie Clarence and Edith Virginia (Barrick) Ashford; his beloved wife, Becky Ashford; grandchildren, Justin, Garrett, and Emily; and siblings, Clarence, Emmitt, Larry, and Carolyn. Their absence is keenly felt, yet their spirits live on in the stories and laughter shared throughout the years.

A time of visitation will take place Monday, March 9, 2026, from 6 P.M. to 8 P.M. at Walters' Buffalo Funeral Home, Buffalo, Texas. A funeral service, officiated by Pastor Lloyd Lane, will be held the following day beginning at 11 A.M., also at the funeral home. Michael will be laid to rest next to his beloved, Becky, in Buffalo Cemetery, Buffalo, Texas.

Pallbearers: Sheldon Miller, Dalton Pleasant, Jacob Falknor, Jordan Falknor, Jaden Duharte, Ethan Duharte

Honorary Pallbearers: Michael LeLeu, Dakota Atteberry

Arrangements are under the direction and care of Walters' Buffalo Funeral Home, Buffalo, Texas -- A Walters Family Funeral Home.

View Michael Joe Ashford's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.