Branon Funeral Home

02/19/2026

Graveside memorial service will be held Tuesday, February 24, 2026 at 1:00 pm at Dawson County Cemetery.

Mark Alan Stephens was born March 24, 1960, in Lamesa, Texas, to Wanda (Seely) and Jesse E. Stephens, and he passed away in Lamesa on February 10, 2026.

Mark graduated from Klondike High School in 1978. Over the years, he wore a lot of different hats. He worked on the farm, worked for Ben E. Keith, spent many years with the Texas Department of Criminal Justice, and held several security guard jobs along the way. Life wasn’t always easy, but Mark never quit and kept moving forward.

Mark had a big heart and a good sense of humor. He loved to laugh, enjoyed going to the movies, and could usually be counted on to have a strong opinion about whatever was playing on the screen. He was a proud Texas Tech fan and loved watching the games on TV. Every March, he surprised people with how good he was at picking his Final Four teams.

One of the most meaningful moments in Mark’s life came on July 28, 2018, when he made the decision to be baptized in San Marcos, Texas—a testament to God's unending and unconditional love for humanity.

Mark was preceded in death by his parents, Wanda and Jesse Stephens; his brother, Alton Dee Stephens; his sister-in-law, Linda Stephens; and many aunts and uncles. He is survived by his brothers (and Sister-in-Laws), Val (Pat), Cliff (Tana), and Mike Stephens; many nephews and nieces; great-nephews and great-nieces; and more cousins than anyone could count. He is also survived by his Uncle Dean and Aunt Mary Seely, and Aunts Jeanie Seely, Susan Seely, Judy Seely, and Jan Seely.

Mark will be remembered for his perseverance, his laugh, his love for family, and the simple joys he found in everyday life. To send condolences online, please visit

Branon Funeral Home in Lamesa, TX provides funeral, memorial, aftercare, pre-planning, and cremation services to our community and the surrounding areas.

02/11/2026

Donna LaRue Adkins was born August 22, 1934, in Lamesa, Texas and passed away on February 9, 2026.

Donna was born to Rozelle and O.C. Kellam and the second eldest of three siblings. She is survived by her younger brother, Carley Kellam, and his wife, Linda. She was preceded in death by her beloved sisters, Sue, and Ann.

Donna's greatest joy was her family. She was the mother of two children and is survived by her daughter, Donita Fain, and her husband, Mike. She was preceded in death by her son, Thomas Martin. She had ten grandchildren, whom she adored deeply: Peter, Sonia, Joshua, Christopher, Jerad, Heather, Jeremy, Braxton, Paynter, and Caydee. She had nine great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandchild. Donna held a special place in her heart for her eleven nieces & nephews and many great nieces & nephews.

Donna graduated from Lamesa High School and attended Texas Tech University. Throughout her life, she was known for her intelligence and adventuresome spirit. She owned and operated multiple small businesses and enjoyed living in numerous towns across Texas and New Mexico. In her later years while living full-time in Ruidoso, she worked for a local family-owned lumber yard, volunteered at the world-class Spencer Theater, and eventually became a real estate agent, selling properties in the community she cherished.

A true lover of nature, Donna found peace and happiness outdoors. She treasured time spent fishing with her grandchildren at Lake Sweetwater or the Ruidoso River, wildlife watching with her daughter at either of their homes and taking road trips with her nieces to the Texas Hill Country to admire the blooming bluebonnets. She enjoyed singing in her church choir and was an ardent bridge player, playing several times a week. She was eager to share her wisdom, freely gave advice, and not shy to tell you she loved you.

A graveside celebration of life will be held at 2:00 pm on Saturday, February 14, 2026 at Dawson County Cemetery in Lamesa, Texas, directed through Branon Funeral Home of Lamesa. To send condolences online, please visit www.branonfuneralhome.com.

She will be deeply missed and forever loved.

02/11/2026

Mark Alan Stephens was born March 24, 1960, in Lamesa, Texas, to Wanda (Seely) and Jesse E. Stephens, and he passed away in Lamesa on February 10, 2026.

Mark graduated from Klondike High School in 1978. Over the years, he wore a lot of different hats. He worked on the farm, worked for Ben E. Keith, spent many years with the Texas Department of Criminal Justice, and held several security guard jobs along the way. Life wasn’t always easy, but Mark never quit and kept moving forward.

Mark had a big heart and a good sense of humor. He loved to laugh, enjoyed going to the movies, and could usually be counted on to have a strong opinion about whatever was playing on the screen. He was a proud Texas Tech fan and loved watching the games on TV. Every March, he surprised people with how good he was at picking his Final Four teams.

One of the most meaningful moments in Mark’s life came on July 28, 2018, when he made the decision to be baptized in San Marcos, Texas—a testament to God's unending and unconditional love for humanity.

Mark was preceded in death by his parents, Wanda and Jesse Stephens; his brother, Alton Dee Stephens; his sister-in-law, Linda Stephens; and many aunts and uncles. He is survived by his brothers (and Sister-in-Laws), Val (Pat), Cliff (Tana), and Mike Stephens; many nephews and nieces; great-nephews and great-nieces; and more cousins than anyone could count. He is also survived by his Uncle Dean and Aunt Mary Seely, and Aunts Jeanie Seely, Susan Seely, Judy Seely, and Jan Seely.

Mark will be remembered for his perseverance, his laugh, his love for family, and the simple joys he found in everyday life. To send condolences online, please visit

Branon Funeral Home in Lamesa, TX provides funeral, memorial, aftercare, pre-planning, and cremation services to our community and the surrounding areas.

02/09/2026

Graveside service for Robert Butchee, 62, of Lamesa will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Thursday, February 12, 2026, at Hancock Cemetery with Pastor Kalith Brown officiating. A memorial service will follow at 11:00 a.m. at First Baptist Church with Pastor Kalith Brown officiating and Garett Gunn assisting. Arrangements are under the direction of Branon Funeral Home in Lamesa, Texas. Visitation will be held from 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday, February 10, 2026, at Branon Funeral Home.

Robert passed away on Friday, February 6, 2026, in Big Spring, Texas, surrounded by his family. He was born on December 16, 1963, in Fort Worth, Texas, and was a graduate of Lamesa High School. On October 3, 1987, he married the love of his life, Lavenda Cheek, in Lamesa, Texas. Together they built a life rooted in faith, family, and friendship, sharing 38 wonderful years of marriage.

Robert was a cotton farmer who loved the land and took great pride in his work. He was always eager to lend a hand, share advice (sometimes unsolicited), or encourage younger generations of farmers just getting started. Many learned not only practical lessons from him, but also the value of hard work, not cutting corners, and helping neighbors.

Known by many as the life of the party, Robert had a gift for bringing people together. Whether at the lake house surrounded by family and friends, at a backyard gathering, or morning meetings at White’s, his laughter was contagious and his stories unforgettable. He never met a stranger, and more importantly, he never left anyone feeling like one.

His greatest joy was his family. Robert was a devoted husband, a proud father, and an especially loving grandfather. He cherished every moment spent with his grandchildren and with the many “inherited” kids and grandkids who found in him a steady mentor, encourager, and friend. To Robert, family wasn’t defined by blood alone-it was defined by love, loyalty, and showing up for one another.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Donald Edward Butchee and Wanda Moreen Butchee.

Those left to cherish his memory are his beloved wife, Lavenda Butchee of Lamesa; his loving children, Bryant Butchee and wife Jessica of Lubbock, and Kyla Gunn and husband Garrett of Big Spring; his grandchildren, Piper, Riverleigh, Brooks, Graycee, Blayklee, Rhett, and Colton Todd; his siblings, Lori Maples, Stephen Riley, and Phil Riley; and his birth mother, Shirley Harris; along with a wide circle of extended family and friends whose lives were made richer by knowing him.

Robert will be remembered for his generous heart, his steady presence, and the way he made every gathering warmer and every person feel welcome. His legacy lives on in the fields he tended, the people he mentored, and the family he loved so deeply.


Family suggests memorials to The Honey Bee Society, a local 501(c)3 that “promotes life skills for youth through livestock.” Information can be found at thehoneybeesociety.com.

To send condolences online, please visit www.branonfuneralhome.com.

02/01/2026

David Vogler, 78, of Midland, passed away peacefully at his home on Friday, January 30, 2026, surrounded by the family he loved so deeply.

Born on March 6, 1947, in Lamesa, Texas, to Lawrence and Roxie (Bass) Vogler, David lived a life rooted in faith, family, and community. He graduated from Klondike High School and Texas Tech University, and on August 20, 1966, he married his high-school sweetheart, Dyann Reed, in Lamesa. Together, they shared 59 years of devoted marriage, building a life filled with love, laughter, and unwavering commitment. Much of their life was spent in the Klondike community before retiring to Midland.

David was a man who found his greatest joy with family. A devoted husband and proud father, he especially treasured his role as “Gump” to his grandchildren. Whether sharing a laugh, talking to any passing stranger, or simply being present, David made those around him feel deeply welcomed and loved. His humor, gentle heart, and warm smile will be missed beyond words.

He is survived by his wife, Dyann Vogler of Midland; his son, Cody Vogler and wife Sherrie of Midland; his daughter, Tessa Calzada and husband Gregory of Midland; his grandchildren, Emilee Vogler, Mason Vogler, Avery Guelker, and Graham Guelker; his sister, Lillian Holcomb of Stanton, Texas; his brother, Terry Vogler of Huntsville, Texas; and many nieces, nephews, and extended family members who loved him dearly.

David was preceded in death by his parents, Lawrence and Roxie Vogler; his sister, Sharon Airhart; and his son-in-law, Grant Guelker.

Funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Monday, February 2, 2026, at Branon Funeral Home Chapel, with Mike Wilcox officiating. Interment will follow at Dawson County Cemetery. Visitation will be held Sunday, February 1, 2026, from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.at Branon Funeral Home in Lamesa.

The family suggests memorials be sent to a charity of your choice.
To send condolences online, please visit: www.branonfuneralhome.com.

01/17/2026

Jerry D. Harris, longtime Lamesa, Texas native, passed from this earth on January 15, 2026. He was at home surrounded by loved ones. Harris farmed and ginned cotton in west Texas for over 60 years. He was born in Lamesa, on June 1, 1943, grew up on a cotton farm west of the Ten Mile Community and graduated from Klondike High School.

Jerry served the agricultural industry through countless leadership roles, and he was recognized for his service by a wide array of organizations. Recognitions included National Ginner of the Year, Man of the Year in Agriculture by Texas Tech University, and Distinguished Texan in Agriculture by Texas A&M University. Harris served as Chairman of the State FSA Committee across four decades, through the Reagan Administration, both Bush Administrations, and the first Trump Administration.

Harris’s professional success and agricultural accolades were always secondary to his devotion as a servant of Christ. God blessed him with many skills and resources, and he committed those blessings to furthering Christ’s Kingdom. He supported mission efforts across the United States and Internationally, and this included personal mission trips to Wisconsin, Wyoming, and Trinidad and Tobago. One example of his dedication is that he was a daily Bible reader for more than 40 years, without fail. He believed in the importance of Christian Education, and served on the LCU Board of Trustees for 30 years, including 20 years as Board Chairman.

Jerry’s priorities were Christ first, family second, and everything else after that. Jerry met Nelda McGee on Lamesa’s famous Wall Street, and they were married soon after high school. They spent the next 65 years of their lives together. Jerry traveled extensively as part of his many roles, and he always wanted Nelda by his side. In the early 2000’s, they discovered a love for RV travel, and they visited every state. Their most adventurous excursion was a 6-week trip to Alaska, and this trip created many wonderful memories for both of them.

Jerry leaves behind Nelda, as well as one daughter, Renee Furr, and one son, Brandon Harris with wife Desiree. Their grandchildren are Blaze Taylor with wife Macalee, Hunter Harris, Hanna Harris, Kenedy Furr, Kamryn Schexnayder with husband Keegan, and Tyner Harris. Harris was also blessed with two great-grandchildren, Brynn Taylor, and Ryser Taylor. Jerry’s example will continue to guide his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren for many years to come.

His surviving siblings are sister, Shirley Thomas and brother, David Harris. Jerry was preceded in death by father John David Harris, mother Dorris Elizabeth Harris, and brother Larry Don Harris.

Funeral service will be held at 1:30 p.m. on Tuesday, January 20, 2026 at Lamesa Church of Christ. Interment will follow at Dawson County Cemetery. Arrangements are under the care of Branon Funeral Home. Visitation will be held Tuesday, January 20, 2026, from 1:00 p.m. to 1:30 p.m. at Lamesa Church of Christ.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests that donations be made to Children’s Home of Lubbock.

To send condolences online, please visit: www.branonfuneralhome.com.

01/16/2026

Funeral service for Wanda Jean Martens, 88, of Lamesa will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Sunday, January 18, 2026 at Crestview Baptist Church with Pastor Keith Clower officiating. Interment will follow at Dawson County Cemetery. Arrangements are under the care of Branon Funeral Home. Visitation will be held Saturday, January 17, 2026, from 3:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at Branon Funeral Home.

Wanda passed away on Thursday, January 15, 2026 in her home surrounded by her loved ones. She was born on October 4, 1937 to Albert Burnice Dossey and Clovis Bodine in Lamesa, Texas.

She married Vernon Roger Martens on March 2, 1957 in Lovington, New Mexico. They were married 32 wonderful years.

Wanda lived a life stitched together with creativity, care, and quiet strength. A gifted baker and seamstress, she had a way of turning simple ingredients and scraps of fabric into something beautiful and lasting. She was an accomplished piano player and passionate barrel racer and horsewoman, passions that brought her both excitement and peace.

Wanda poured her heart into coaching her girls, always encouraging them with patience and pride. She found joy with her hands in the soil as a dedicated garden club member, in crafting thoughtful creations, and through her work in retail at The Pampered Lady and McCalls, where her warmth and kindness were felt by all.

Above all, she will be remembered for the love she gave so freely and the many lives she touched through her talents, generosity, and unwavering devotion.

Wanda is survived by her children, Tonya Clark of Lamesa, Debbie Lee and husband Keith of Lamesa, Melinda Turner of Lamesa, Heather Martens of Lamesa, and Becky Hendrix and husband Sean of Lewisville; sisters, Zelda Bilbo of Ackerly and Rheba Herman of Lubbock; brother, Steve Bodine of Ackerly; nine grandchildren; and four great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Burnice Dossey and Clovis Bodine; and husband Vernon Martens.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorials be made to: The Dawson County Senior Citizens, 609 N. Austin Ave., Lamesa, Texas 79331.

To send condolences online, please visit: www.branonfuneralhome.com.

01/12/2026

Memorial service will be held Friday, January 30, 2026 at 10:00 a.m. at Grace Lutheran Church in Lamesa with Pastor Pase officiating. Burial of ashes will follow at Grace Lutheran Cemetery in Sparenberg, Texas. Please visit www.branonfuneralhome.com for full obituary.

01/12/2026

Grief sessions begin Thursday at Northside Baptist Church .. times are listed in article .

01/01/2026

Wishing you many blessings in 2026. Our staff extends heartfelt gratitude for entrusting your loved ones with us.

12/31/2025

Memorial service for Kathaleen Brown, 84, of Lamesa, will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, January 3, 2026, at First Presbyterian Church with Pastor Robert Reno officiating. Burial will follow at Dawson County Cemetery. Arrangements are under the care of Branon Funeral Home.

Kathaleen was born in Lamesa, Texas to Arnold (Buster) Henderson and Bessie Morris Henderson. She married Norman Brown her high school sweetheart on May 31, 1959. She was a graduate of Lamesa High School and then became an Advanced EMT for Dawson County EMS for many years. Kathaleen loved watercolor and playing bridge. She was thrilled to go to the Kentucky Derby or any horse race.

Kathaleen was a member of the Garden Club and Lamesa Community Players. She was also a lifelong member of First Presbyterian Church of Lamesa.

Kathaleen is survived by her children, Norman Keith Brown and wife Shelley Ann of Midland and Cindi Brown and Eric Cobble and “her other daughter”, Kym Rapier; three grandchildren, Andrea Swinney and husband Jordan of Midland, Andrew Brown and wife Katie of Tyler and Allison Patton and husband David of Lubbock; and nine greatgrandchildren. And of course, her bestie Freda Hawkins!!!

The family would like to extend special thanks to her caregivers; Valerie, Melissa, Tina, Chrissy, Janie, Mary and Linda Gass for their loving care. Also to Home Hospice of Big Spring for their care and Chad Norris at Jones McCall Pharmacy and Staff.

Pallbearers to honor her are: Andrew Brown, Jordan Swinney, David Patton, Wacey Hawkins, and Hutch Hawkins.

Honorary Pallbearers: Jay White, Glenn Hogg, Davie Lasater, Eric Cobble, Kim Hawkins, and Royce McCormick.

She was preceded in death by her parents, and her husband. The family suggests memorials to kymrapierfoundation.org. or charity of choice.

To send condolences online, please visit www.branonfuneralhome.com.

12/30/2025

Lonnie Dean Richter, 69, of Ackerly, passed away December 25, 2025. Memorial service will be held at a later time. Arrangements are under the care of Branon Funeral Home.

Lonnie was born on March 11, 1956 in Lamesa, Texas to Bill Richter and Lydia Kunkel Richter. He attended Sands schools in Ackerly. He worked for many years in the oil industry, travelling to Japan and other countries installing computer equipment. He enjoyed hunting game and fishing in the Rio Grande River. He adopted many rescue dogs and loved caring for them. Lonnie was a lifetime member of the Grace Lutheran Church in Lamesa.

Lonnie is survived by his siblings, Cynthia Richter and Donnie Richter both of Ackerly, Jenny Bartlett (Bill) of Midland; sister in law, Sheryl Richter; nephew and nieces, Steve, Tim, Mark, Josh, Laure, Tracey, Amanda, Michael, Courtney, Ashley, Jessica, Kim, Payton, Trey and Maddie that loved him dearly. He was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Alton “Butch” Richter; sister, Delphine Barthell; and niece, Christi Bartlett.

To send condolences online, please visit www.branonfuneralhome.com.