Nowlin Anders Funeral Home

09/09/2025

Deborah E. Swinney, 77, peacefully passed away September 8, 2025, at Legacy Estate with her loving family by her side. She was born April 16, 1948, in Gorman, Texas to John Lloyd Montague and Ruth H. Carlin Montague. Deborah married Roy Dale Swinney November 5, 1966.

Deborah was raised in De Leon and graduated from De Leon High School in 1966. She and Roy married as soon as he returned from Vietnam, and they began their family. She was a loving and devoted homemaker for her family always. She enjoyed spending time outdoors and watching nature. She lived a quiet and fulfilling life and will be missed deeply by all who knew and loved her.

She is survived by her loving husband, Roy Dale Swinney; son, Shelby Swinney and wife, Shannon; daughters, Carla Landreth and Lisa Stephens; brother, Carl Montague; numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren; numerous nieces, nephews, and other extended family. Deborah has been reunited with her son, Jason Swinney.

In respect of Deborah’s wishes, no public services are scheduled at this time. Condolences may be offered online at www.nowlinandersfh.com.

09/09/2025

Martha Jayne Stephens, 56, peacefully passed from this life September 8, 2025, at De Leon Nursing and Rehab. She was born November 11, 1968, in Weatherford, Texas to J. Loyd and June Stewart Stephens.

Martha graduated from Stephenville High School. She resided at Abilene State Supported Living Center most all her adult life. Martha had a happy disposition, was kind and friendly to everyone, and always enjoyed a good hug. She was a true joy to all that knew and loved her. She will be deeply missed but her family takes comfort in knowing she is healed in the presence of her Lord.

She is survived by her devoted mother, June Stephens; brother, Stewart Alexander and wife, Nancy; sisters, Angelia Coan and husband, David, Nanci Kelly and husband, Charles, and Page Briggs and husband, Jason; numerous nieces, nephews, and other extended family.

Martha has been reunited with her father, Loyd Stephens; and grandparents, Vernon and Lorene Stewart.

Graveside services will be held Wednesday, September 10, 2025, at 1:00 p.m. in Victor Cemetery.

If desired memorial contributions may be made to De Leon Nursing and Rehabilitation in memory of Martha.

The Stephens family would like to thank the staff of De Leon Nursing and Rehab for their love and compassion shown towards Martha. Condolences may be offered online at www.nowlinandersfh.com.

09/09/2025

Debra Lynn McDowell, 67, left this earth unexpectedly September 7, 2025. She was born July 1, 1958 in Dallas, Texas to Cecil Elwayne Perkins and Louise “Weasy” Roberts. Debra married Jackie McDowell on August 7, 2000. They spent many wonderful years together until his passing in 2022.

Debra attended high school at South Grand Prairie High School. Later, she was a homemaker and vastly enjoyed playing games, such as 42, Yahtzee, Farkel and Bingo. Especially Bingo. She was the fun sister and aunt and was known for bringing Stanley to all of the gatherings. Debra is irreplaceable and will be tremendously missed by everyone.

Debra is survived by her daughter, Dalynn Johnson and husband Cody of De Leon; son, Jeremy Knox of Stephenville; sister, Christi Polvado and husband Cody of Merkel; granddaughters, Kaley Floyd, Avis Johnson, Vanessa Johnson and Wyndalynn Johnson; nieces, Carolyne Perkins and husband Randy, Catherynn Bennington and husband Floyd, Christyan Bennington and husband Dalton, and Camrynn Bennington; and numerous other nieces and nephews.

Debra was preceded in death by her husband, Jackie McDowell; parents, Elwayne and Weasy Perkins; sister, Susan Perkins; brother, Cecil Perkins; and nephew, Gavin Perkins.

Her family is eternally grateful that they had the privilege of her being theirs, and there will forever be a void left by her absence.

May angels lead you in.

A private celebration of life will be scheduled at a later time for close family.

Condolences may be offered online at www.nowlinandersfh.com.

08/19/2025

De Leon ISD Employees ~ have a Lil Hoss drink on us!

Come out to Bearcat Country Thursday and support our Bearcats & Lady Cats at Meet the Bearcats!

Great times in the Big D and we are so proud of all involved in our common goal - raising well rounded, hard working, future leaders! Raising Bearcats🐾🐾

We wish all a great school year!

08/17/2025

Brian Wayne Morgan, 53, of Euless, Texas peacefully passed from this life August 15, 2025. He was born February 10, 1972, in Ft. Worth, Texas to Howard Wayne Morgan and Dell Smith Morgan. Brian faced many challenges in his life, but he always had a positive attitude and very seldom complained. He fought the good fight, and now he is free of any earthly ailments and is healed and whole in the presence of his Savior for eternity.

Brian enjoyed listening to music and loved to watch Bonanza, Gunsmoke, and The Three Stooges. He loved working puzzles and enjoyed all food. He was known to many as a gentle giant with his large stature and kind heart. Brian was truly a light to many, and he will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

He is survived by his devoted mother, Dell Morgan; brother, Lance Morgan; nephews, A.J. Morgan and wife, Evie, and Quaid Morgan; uncle, Bill Smith and wife, Sharon; cousins, Billy and Tracy Smith, Darla Smith, Linda Fischer Smith, and Todd and Deanna Downs; and other extended family. Brian has been reunited with his father, Howard Wayne Morgan; sister-in-law, Shala Morgan; grandparents, Red and Lola Smith; uncle, Arvel Smith, Jr., and cousin, Robert Smith.

The Morgan family will receive friends for visitation on Monday, August 18, 2025, from 4:00-6:00 p.m. at Nowlin Anders Funeral Home.

Graveside funeral services will be held Tuesday, August 19, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. in De Leon Cemetery with Brother Daniel Burlison officiating.

Condolences may be offered online at www.nowlinandersfh.com.

08/12/2025

John D. Scott, Jr.

John D. Scott, Jr., a retired school administrator and teacher, passed away on August 11, 2025 in Comanche, Texas. John was born in Gorman, Texas, on October 26, 1942. He was the son of John Deene Scott, Sr. and Kathryn Loudermilk Scott. His Scott and Loudermilk ancestors were early-day pioneers in Texas and founders of the Downing community in Comanche County.

John was a 1961 graduate of De Leon High School, received a BS degree from Abilene Christian University in 1965, and a master’s degree from Tarleton State University in 1975. As a teacher in San Antonio, Texas, John was selected by his peers as Teacher of the Year and was the recipient of the Teacher Prize for Excellence awarded by Trinity University in San Antonio. He served as an officer and leader in local and state organizations including Phi Delta Kappa, Texas State Teachers Association, National Education Association, Texas Elementary Principals Association, and the City of San Antonio’s Tomorrow's Schools Today Council.

In 1996, John retired and returned to the family farm in Downing, Texas. He was a worldwide traveler, collected Indian artifacts, and spent much of his time in the Washington, D.C. area where his daughter, son-in-law, and granddaughters reside. He had many friends and family members that he loved to spend time with. He was a member of the Church of Christ.

John is survived by his beloved daughter, Carol Scott Schefer; son-in-law, Charles Schefer; and beloved granddaughters, Abby, Annabelle, and Lily Schefer. As well as Lacy Loudermilk (Jaye), LeAnn Loudermilk Harris (Brian), Patti Loudermilk Burrow (Brandon) and their children. He was preceded in death by his parents, John Deene and Kat Scott.

The Scott family will receive friends for visitation on Saturday, August 16th from 10:00-11:00 a.m. at De Leon Church of Christ, Hwy 6. Funeral services celebrating John’s life will begin at 11:00 with Lacy Loudermilk officiating. Interment will follow in Downing Cemetery. Serving as pallbearers are Lacy Loudermilk, Brian Harris, Brandon Burrow, Royce Lesley, Gerald Van Zandt and Charles Schefer.

Memorials may be made to Foster's Children Home, Stephenville, Texas (www.fostershome.org), in loving memory of John. Condolences may be offered online at www.nowlinandersfh.com.

08/04/2025

Terry Don Scott, beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, was born on July 9, 1952, in Fort Worth, Texas, to Joe and Collene Scott. He passed away peacefully on August 3, 2025, at the age of 73.

Terry proudly served his country in the United States Navy from 1973 until 1983 during the Vietnam War. He worked many years beside his father in the concrete business, but his true passion was seeing the joy and smile on people’s faces. He did this by being the lead singer of many bands including Bandera and working at the local Circle K.

He was active in the community and cherished the relationships he built with friends and neighbors. He served at the Comanche County Sheriff’s office and proudly served as the Mayor of De Leon for six years.

Terry Don was preceded in death by his parents, Joe and Collene Scott. He is survived by his loving wife of 41 years, Sonja Scott, his children, Mason McDonald, Noelani Scott, Jacob and Jessica Scott, and Ashley and Andrew Moore. Terry was very proud of his grandchildren, Dakota, Riley, Garred, Kali, Kaleb, Kaedon, Jude, Jax, Jordan, Avaley, Andren and Ansen as well as his three great-grandchildren Scottlyn, Cooper and Leif. He is also survived by his two sisters, Vicky and Leticia, his brothers-in-law, Freddy, Ray and Bill, and his mother-in-law, Jean.

Known affectionately as "Poppy" to many, Terry took in countless children as if they were his own, leaving a profound impact on everyone he met. Those who knew him remember him as a kind man who shared hugs and greetings wherever he went. He was never a stranger to anyone and will be greatly missed by his family and friends who loved him.

In accordance with Terry's wishes, a celebration of life gathering will take place at Bride of Christ Church in Gorman, Texas August 16, 2025, from 4:00-8:00 p.m. Flowers and other arrangements may be sent to Bride of Christ Church the day of celebration.

Terry Don Scott's legacy of kindness and community spirit will forever live on in the hearts of those he touched.

Condolences may be offered online at www.nowlinandersfh.com.

07/23/2025

Mike “Speedy” Leal Gonzales, 60, passed from this life July 19, 2025. He was born February 1, 1965, in San Antonio, Texas to Guadalupe Gonzales and Rosa Leal.

Mike was raised in De Leon and graduated with the De Leon Class of 1984. He attended Tarleton State University and studied business management. He was self-employed most all his life. Mike was always full of life and outgoing. He loved socializing with his many friends and spending time with his family. He was always the comedian and enjoyed making people laugh. Mike had a quick wit and welcoming smile that could cheer anyone up.

He enjoyed many hobbies including golfing, cutting wood, and spending time outdoors. He was a life-long Dallas Cowboy fan, win or lose. Mike was a loving father, brother, and friend. He will be missed by all who knew and loved him.

Mike is survived by his sons, Jordan Gonzales, Mikey Gonzales and Dante Gonzales; daughters, Selena Gonzales, Isabel Garcia, Giselle Gonzales, Anjelica Rodriguez, and Holly Gonzales; brother, Louise Gonzales; sister, Petra Ruiz; grandchildren, Carmen, Kylie, Emma, Zoey, Ella, Katarina, Luka, Liam, Sophia, Mariah, Alexis, Adelina, Michael and Elijah; numerous nieces and nephews, and other extended family. He was preceded in death by his daughter, Ashley; parents, Guadalupe and Rosa; and sister, Janie.

The Gonzales family will receive friends for visitation on Friday, July 25, 2025, from 12:00 - 5:00 p.m. at Nowlin Anders Funeral Home. Graveside services celebrating Speedy's life will be held Saturday, July 26, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. in De Leon Cemetery. Serving as pallbearers are Jordan Gonzales, Mikey Gonzales, Dante Gonzales, Braden Gonzales, Alex Rodriguez and Gustavo Nava.

07/22/2025

Mike "Speedy" Leal Gonzales, 60, passed away Saturday, July 19, 2025.

The Gonzales family will receive friends for visitation on Friday, July 25, 2025, from 12:00 - 5:00 p.m. at Nowlin Anders Funeral Home.

Graveside services celebrating Speedy's life will be held Saturday, July 26, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. in De Leon Cemetery.

Full obituary to come. Condolences may be offered online at

Nowlin Anders Funeral Home | Our Family Caring for Your Family

07/21/2025

Shanna Lynn Holland Lewis, 52, a beloved wife, mother, sister, aunt, friend, and teacher, passed peacefully from this life July 19, 2025. Her courageous battle with cancer is over and her victory is now eternal with her Lord and Savior.

Born October 4, 1972, in De Leon, to Clifford and Galyna Holland, Shanna was raised in De Leon and graduated with the De Leon Class of 1991. She graduated from Tarleton State University with her Bachelor of Science. She married her high school sweetheart and devoted husband, Gerald (Brutus) Lewis, on June 22, 1996. She later returned to Tarleton State University and earned her Master of Educational Leadership and also received her principal certification. She began her career in Gorman where she completed her student teaching. In 2009, she began a long and rewarding career teaching with De Leon Independent School District. She taught kindergarten and first grade her entire tenure at De Leon Elementary. She retired in 2025 due to her declining health after twenty-nine years of dedicated service to hundreds of children and the De Leon community. Shanna was truly called to be an educator. She made every child feel welcomed, loved, and important. She was soft spoken, kind, and always encouraging. Shanna believed her contribution to the world was helping children learn and grow, and she was gifted beyond measure in that regard.

Shanna was extremely creative. She loved to decorate for holidays and parties and often assisted with planning showers and weddings. Shanna’s greatest joy in life was her family. Her two daughters brought her immense happiness in all they did. She never missed any of their activities and was always their biggest cheerleader. Shanna was a selfless mother and wife, and she loved her family incredibly well. Shanna was a member of Desdemona First Baptist Church. She was a devoted follower of Christ and leaned on Him faithfully throughout her life and her illness. Her trust in Him never wavered, and what a testimony that is to all who knew and loved her. As heartbroken as her family is having to say their earthly goodbye to her so soon, they take comfort in knowing she is healed and whole in Christ.

She leaves behind a loving legacy in her family. Shanna is survived by her husband, Brutus Lewis; daughters, Madilyn Brooke Lewis and Anyssa Klaire Lewis; sisters, Kayla McCoy and husband, Shane, and Kristin Matteson and husband, Heath; numerous nieces and nephews; and other extended family. She has been reunited with her parents, Clifford and Galyna Holland.

The Lewis family will receive friends for visitation on Tuesday, July 22, 2025, from 6:00-8:00 p.m. at Nowlin Anders Funeral Home. A celebration of Shanna's life will be held Wednesday, July 23, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. at Desdemona First Baptist Church with Rusty Rose officiating. Interment will follow in Desdemona Cemetery. Serving as pallbearers are Donald Holder, Lance Lampman, Robert Love, Kevin Pack, Joey Lindley and Jeff Maupin. Honorary pallbearers are Morris Greenhaw and Terry Denson. If desired, memorial contributions may be made to the Desdemona Activity Center, in memory of Shanna.

Condolences may be offered online at www.nowlinandersfh.com.

07/16/2025

Sonja Alvarez, 36, passed from this life July 14, 2025, in North Richland Hills, Texas. She was born July 13, 1989, in Dublin, Texas to Adelita Reyna.

Sonja was raised in the De Leon area in her adolescent years and spent most all her adult life in the metroplex. She loved to read and spend time with her family. She was a devoted homemaker for her family and the most loving and selfless mom to her children. She will be missed beyond measure by all who knew and loved her.

She is survived by her husband, Rodrigo Cabrera Rodriquez; sons, Damian Xavier Alvarez and Nolan Cabrera; daughters, Marissa Parga and Chloe M. Cabrera; mother, Adelita Castro; brothers, Joe Landa, Enrique Landa, Jr., and Armando Reyna and wife, Daisy Amaya; sister, Angelica Kirkpatrick and husband, Jacob; grandma, Nicolasa Garcia; uncle, Francisco Lopez; nephews, Jacob Kirkpatrick, Austin Phare, Julian Kirkpatrick and Devin Landa; nieces, Jalissa Kirkpatrick, Olivia Reyna, Jordyn Landa and Emma Reyna; other extended family, and many loving friends. Sonja has been reunited with her grandpa, Domingo Reyna; and uncle, Salvador Reyna.

Sonja's family will receive friends for visitation on Sunday, July 20, 2025, from 6:00-8:00 p.m. at Nowlin Anders Funeral Home.

Funeral services celebrating Sonja's life will be held Monday, July 21, 2025, at 1:00 p.m. at Nowlin Anders Funeral Home.

Condolences may be offered online at www.nowlinandersfh.com.

07/16/2025

Philip Alan White, 84, of De Leon, peacefully passed from this life July 13, 2025. Philip was born March 20, 1941, in Ann Arbor, Michigan to Gerald E. White and Viola Durkee White. He married his loving wife of sixty-two years, Nancy Jane Schneider, on February 16, 1963.

Philip proudly served in the United States Army and was an active military police officer at Fort Hood and Killeen Base in Killeen, Texas. He retired from the State of Texas as a TDCJ correctional officer after many years of dedicated service. He enjoyed traveling all over the United States, often RV'ing with his wife, and had an adventurous spirit. Philip also enjoyed ranching and spending time with his family. He and Nancy relocated to De Leon in 2022 from Lampasas County to be near family. He was a devoted husband, loving father and grandfather, and special friend to many. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

He is survived by his wife, Nancy White; son, Christopher White; daughter, Tracey Bettis and husband, Brad; grandchildren, Whitley Bettis, Codi Banks and husband, Seth, and Braden Bettis; and other extended family.

In respect of Philip’s wishes, no public services are scheduled.

Memorials may be made to Immanuel Lutheran Church, 922 Lutheran Church Rd.,Copperas Cove, TX 76522.

Condolences may be offered online at www.nowlinandersfh.com.