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Griggs-Schooler-Gordon Funeral Directors, 5400 Bell Street, Amarillo, TX (2025)

10/14/2025

Gary D. McDade
October 1, 1944 – October 10, 2025

Gary McDade, a devoted husband, father, and man of steadfast faith, passed away peacefully surrounded by family. Born on October 1, 1944, to Doris and Clarence Dee McDade in Wildorado, Texas, Gary grew up with strong roots in family and community. He shared a close bond with his sister, Karen, and cherished the values instilled in him from an early age.

After proudly serving his country in the United States Navy from 1965-1967 on the USS Enterprise CVAN-65 where he did two tours in the Tonkin Gulf/South China Sea, Gary returned home with a deep sense of honor and humility that would guide him throughout his life. On January 20, 1968, he married the love of his life, Sylvia McGee, and together they built a beautiful life centered on faith, love, and family. Gary was most proud of his two daughters, Amy and Carrie, and considered being their father his greatest accomplishment. He was also a loving and devoted grandfather to his adored granddaughter, Sydney Dee Hubbard, who brought him endless joy and laughter.

Gary served his community in various positions through the years. The majority of his career was spent as Executive Director of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Amarillo (1970-79), and as Manager of Employee Development of Southwestern Public Service in Amarillo (1983-1997). Gary was a godly man of integrity whose quiet strength, wisdom, and kindness earned the respect of all who knew him.

Church life and leadership were a constant in Gary’s life. Gary and his family were founding members of Westview Christian Church in Amarillo, where he served as both elder and teacher. He also served as elder and teacher at Washington Avenue Christian Church. He and Sylvia later attended Paramount Baptist Church where Gary enjoyed more years of teaching.

Gary was preceded in death by his parents, Dee & Doris McDade, and his wife Sylvia. He is survived by his daughters Amy McDade of Amarillo and Carrie Hubbard, her husband Craig, and their daughter Sydney of Amarillo, his sister Karen and her husband Dewayne Sexton of Lubbock, and many beloved nieces and nephews. Extra special to his heart was his beloved Aunt Charolyn Gouldy of Wildorado.

Those who knew Gary will remember him for his unwavering faith, his steady presence, and his ability to make others feel valued and seen. His legacy of love, faith, and integrity will continue to live on in the hearts of those he touched.

Visitation will be held at Griggs-Schooler-Gordon (5400 Bell, Amarillo), Oct. 14th 5-7 p.m.

Graveside service will be 11:00 a.m. Oct. 15th at Palo Duro Cemetery, Wildorado.

Memorial service will be held at Griggs-Schooler-Gordon Oct. 15th 3:00 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts can be made to Palo Duro Cemetery or Hospice of the Southwest in honor of his wife, Sylvia.

09/28/2025

William Ottoson
AUGUST 15, 1931 – SEPTEMBER 23, 2025

William “Bill” Earl Ottoson, Sr., also known as Dad, Papa, and O.P. (Old Papa) passed away peacefully on Tuesday, September 23, 2025, at the age of 94. Born August 15, 1931, in Cambridge, Illinois, to Edna (Hight) and Ralph Ottoson, he was raised in Illinois and lived a long and remarkable life filled with love, laughter, service, and accomplishment.

Bill graduated from Alexis High School in Illinois. He proudly served in the U.S. Air Force before graduating from Western Illinois University with a bachelor’s in music and a master’s in psychology. A man of intellect and curiosity, he nearly completed a doctorate in psychology and administration. However, the long commute to Texas Tech University and the time away from his family kept him from finishing. Still, his brilliance, wit, and wisdom were unmatched.

On February 10, 1951, he married the love of his life, Betty Jo Ritter. Together, they shared 74 ½ extraordinary years of marriage, a legacy of devotion and steadfast love that has been a shining example to their family and all who knew them. Betty always enjoys reminding people that he had once been voted Football King, a title that captured both his charm and the admiration of those around him. They welcomed their first child, Bill Jr., in Mississippi in 1953. Later, the family moved back to Illinois where they welcomed their second child, Carolyn, in 1958.

Their journey later took them to an Air Force Base in Puerto Rico for 5 years where Bill worked as a civilian employee as a psychologist, director of counseling and guidance of a 12-grade school system, and the high school band director. Following this, he served for three years in an administrative role at Del Mar College in Corpus Christi.

In 1967, the family settled in Amarillo, Texas, where he lived the rest of his life. He worked for Amarillo College in various administrative capacities for 10 years, lastly as director of the public information office. He then served as general manager of the AAA Panhandle-Plains Auto Club until his retirement. His long list of accomplishments also includes being a Mason and Shriner and playing trumpet in the Khiva Shriner’s Oriental Band.

He filled his days with music, photography, woodworking, and humor. He was a man of many talents, always creating, always learning, and always ready with a clever joke. His witty sense of humor brought joy to every family gathering.

While serving at AAA, he and Betty fulfilled their dream of traveling. They journeyed across the world, exploring countless countries and even standing on the Great Wall of China. After retirement, they completed their list of travel to all 50 states, many of them from the comfort of their RV. He especially loved golf, often taking his grandchildren along to play and share the game he loved so much. More than anything, though, he loved food, laughter, and the company of his family, gathering with them for meals and celebrations throughout the years.

Bill was preceded in death by his parents, his brother, Bobby, and his sister, Betty Swanson.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 74 ½ years, Betty; his son Bill Ottoson, Jr. (Debbie); his daughter Carolyn Ottoson (Doug Curry); his grandson Sean Ottoson (Kaylene) and their children Peyton, Kennedy, and C**t; his granddaughter Wendy Monds (Scott) and their children Christopher, Kayla, and Benjamin; and numerous nieces and nephews.

He will be remembered for his humor, his brilliance, his creativity, and above all, his love for his family. His legacy lives on in every story, every laugh, and every cherished memory shared around the table. In place of flowers, please share an extra-long hug with those you love.

09/28/2025

Florence Brofft
SEPTEMBER 13, 1926 – SEPTEMBER 20, 2025

Florence Brofft, 99, of Amarillo, passed peacefully from this world on September 20, 2025.

She was born on September 13, 1926, in Crosby, Texas, to August and Tillie Hechler. On November 8, 1952, Florence married Richard “Dick” Brofft in Crosby. The couple shared many years together, including 12 years living in Alaska, before settling in Amarillo. Richard preceded her in death on May 30, 1995. Florence later married Bennie Solano on April 2, 1998, in Amarillo. He also preceded her in death. A devoted member of St. Laurence Catholic Church for over 55 years, Florence was a woman of faith and quiet strength. She found joy in life’s simple pleasures—gardening, reading, music, and spending time outdoors.

Florence is survived by her three children: Albert Brofft and wife Sherry, Richard Brofft and wife Tina, and daughter Suzanne and husband Wesley. She leaves behind a loving legacy of 7 grandchildren and 9 great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents, August and Tillie Hechler; her two husbands, Richard “Dick” Brofft and Bennie Solano; three brothers, Antone, Alvin, and August; and three sisters, Eleanor, Elizabeth, and Louise.

A private family service will be held at a later date to honor and celebrate her life.

09/23/2025

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09/21/2025

Angie Hart
MAY 7, 1927 – SEPTEMBER 17, 2025

Anjelita “Angie” Mendez Hart, 98, of Amarillo, passed away on September 17, 2025. She was born on May 7, 1927, to Tom and Nicolasa Mendez in Navasota, TX.

On November 23, 1957, Angie married the love of her life, Joe Hart. Together they built a family rooted in love and faith. They spent much of their life together in Bugbee Shores.

Loved ones should celebrate Angie’s life, rather than mourn her death. Angie stayed astoundingly active until the last few days of her life, and was blessed enough to live independently, and in great health, until the very end. She regularly walked to and from the library and she had many friends with which she would mingle in the hallways of her apartment. Angie always had plenty of company to look forward to, even after her children had passed on.

Every phone call and visit from loved ones, of which there were many, meant the world to her. She knew she was loved, and only ever had love to give. Angie leaves behind a legacy of love, strength, and faith, best expressed in her own words: “I just want to tell you not to feel bad. I have lived a good life. I was loved like I love each one of you… I know Dad (Joe Hart Sr.) is waiting on me. Love one another always.” Angie had a servant’s heart. She was a volunteering at NWTH and went on to serve as the president of the volunteers, dedicating more than 13,500 hours of service.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Joe Hart Sr.; her three children, Mary Campbell, Evelyn Jones, and Joe Dale Hart Jr.; three grandchildren, Kelley Don Youngblood, Tony Parker, Johnny Parker and multiple siblings; Ben Mendez, Buck Mendez, Nar Mendez, Margaret Longbine, Trinidad and Louise.

Angie is survived by her sisters: Mary Ann Knause (George) and Teresa Mendez; grandchildren: Derek Hart, Angela Leal (Rowdy), Brandy Youngblood, Les Parker and Crystal Thomas; great-grandchildren: Tiffany Sharpensteen, Andrew Leal, Corey Youngblood, Brandi Leal, Cody Youngblood, Matthew Leal, Ashley Leal, James Parker, Zachary Parker, Lexi Parker, Cambree Parker, Sarah Parker, Chance Parker and Kaela Smith; and great-great-grandchildren: Bennett Sharpensteen, Ryleigh Sharpensteen, Sloan Creamer and McKinley Smith.

09/21/2025

Jan Robertson
OCTOBER 9, 1940 – SEPTEMBER 13, 2025

Peggie Jan Tongate Robertson was born October 9, 1940, to Elsie Billings Tongate and Elza Benjamin Tongate. She was an only child, and her parents adored her. She grew up on a farm in Zephyr, TX, Jan enjoyed working on the farm, turning all animals into pets, going to school. Jan’s most remembered school stories included breaking her arm in elementary school, winning a trip to Chicago with her 4H project, and becoming Valedictorian of her graduating class from Zephyr High School.

After high school, she became the first in her family to attend college, choosing Texas Tech. She studied Home Economics Education. While at Tech, she met her husband at the Church of Christ Bible Chair. Dwight Gage Robertson, Jr. asked her to coffee to celebrate their mutual birthday, October 9. They married 3 months later on January 22, 1961.

They welcomed their first daughter in December 1961, Tracy Ann. Gage graduated from college in May. They moved to Pampa where Gage began his career as a mechanical engineer. Although Jan did not complete her degree at that time, graduation continued to be her goal.

In August of 1963, Toni Jean arrived, followed by Tami Lynn in October of 1965. Tami was born on October 9, as well so three of the five shared the same birthday.

Jan stayed busy raising children, maintaining the home and caring for the many pets, cats and dogs were always a part of the home. Jan enjoyed growing plants, inside and out, sewing, swimming, and bowling. The family moved over the course of 10 years to Franklin, Louisiana, back to Pampa, on to Big Spring. In Big Spring, she was the Aquatics Director at the YMCA where all three daughters worked for her as lifeguards, swim teachers, and babysitters.

When the family moved to Amarillo in 1979, Jan returned to the workforce, serving as a bookkeeper at Santa Fe Credit Union, Pendleton and Co., and Multiple Systems. She was also the bookkeeper for Friends of Camp Mary White when it first began. Jan worked to help with college tuition so all three of her girls could earn degrees.

Her beloved husband, Gage, passed away in January of 1993. Her daughters were grown and living away, so Jan went back to school. She graduated from West Texas State A&M University with an Accounting degree in 2003 at the age of 63.

At this point in her life, her focus was grandchildren. Jan had 5 grandsons and 1 granddaughter. She attended as many school programs as possible, P*e Wee sports games, scouting events, choir and band concerts, as well as drama and musicals. If there was an event celebrating her grandkids or daughters, she was there regardless of the distance or weather. She continued supporting her grandchildren until her last breath. Jan was often heard telling others about her grandchildren’s successes, marriages and graduations.

Jan’s legacy is unconditional love of Jesus Christ, her Lord and Savior. Her faith and works were her life. While in Louisiana in the midst of the political turmoil and violence of the 60’s, Jan and Gage helped Brother Lemon and his family start the Church of Christ in Jeanerette. As days grew increasingly difficult over the last few months of her life, Jan increased her time in God’s Word. She exhibited unconditional love and faithfulness, demonstrating that to her family. She was excited to attend church the week before she died, understanding the importance of faithful attendance. Jan was a faithful and active member of Southwest Church of Christ since 1979.

Jan passed away on September 13, 2025, at home, as family held her hands and sang her to Heaven.

Jan is preceded in death by her parents, Ben and Elsie Tongate, her husband, Gage Robertson, Jr., and a son-in-law, Glen Waldo, Jr.

She is survived by her three daughters, Tracy McFadden and husband Dennis, Toni Waldo, and Tami Kraft and husband Jim. Six grandchildren, Benjamin Kraft (Sara), Gage Waldo (Samantha), Kimberly Sullivan (Patrick), Trey Waldo (Alexis), Jake Waldo (Ryleigh) and Austin Kraft (Sydney). Jan has four great-grandchildren, Lillian Kraft, Harlan Kraft, Ethan Waldo, and Kaysen Sullivan. She was delighted to learn that Trace Sullivan is expected to arrive next spring.

Visitation will be Sunday, September 21, 2025 from 2- 4 pm at 5400 Bell St.The memorial service will be Monday, September 22, 2025 at 10 am at the funeral home with burial to follow at Memorial Park Cemetery. The family suggests memorials be made to the High Plains Children’s Home. Other organizations that Jan supported include the missions at Southwest Church of Christ, the Southside Food Pantry in Killeen, TX and Friends of Camp Mary White.

09/13/2025

Jim Reed
DECEMBER 23, 1938 – AUGUST 27, 2025

Jim Reed, age 86, of Fritch, Texas passed away on Wednesday, August 27, 2025.

09/06/2025

Richard Parker
DECEMBER 28, 1943 – AUGUST 27, 2025

Richard H. "Dick" Parker, 81, of Amarillo, Texas passed away on August 27, 2025.
Private family services will be held.

Dick was born in Victoria, Texas on December 28, 1943, to Grace M. (Holley) and Raymond G. Parker. After his dad retired from the United States Air Force, Dick's family settled in Lubbock, Texas, where his dad owned and operated Kar Kare Garage. Dick graduated from Monterey High School in 1962, where he played football for the Plainsman. While attending college, Dick spent many hours working at the garage with his dad, learning how to take proper care of and fix anything and everything related to cars. He even worked on race cars for Kenny Bernstein. He graduated from Texas Tech University in 1969 with a B.B.A. in Personnel Management. He furthered his education in 1981, completing an Executive Development Program at the University of Houston. In 1991, he attended the Governor's Leadership Conference. Dick began his career at Pioneer Corporation as a Personnel Assistant in 1969. He worked his way up through the organization to become Vice President of Personnel in 1985. In 1990, he went to work for the Texas Workers' Compensation Commission as a Pre-Hearing Examiner/Benefit Review Officer, retiring in 2013.

Dick married the love of his life, Janice C. "Jan" Long on January 1, 1983.

He had a sweet heart, was generous with his time and talents, and enjoyed helping others. He had the ability to build and fix just about anything, not just cars.

He volunteered with the Amarillo Council on Alcoholism and Drug Abuse, serving as both a member and Chairman of the Board. This connection led to him being involved with and helping to manage Lawndale Charity Bingo for the past 37 years.

Dick's favorite hobbies were golf and watching Red Raider Football.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Grace and Raymond Parker.

He is survived by his wife, Jan Parker; daughter, Tracy L. Long; sister, Margaret A. "Peggy" Frost; brothers-in-law, Patrick L. Frost and Robert E. Vogt; nephew, Craig P. Frost, and niece Cynthia D. "Cindy" Frost of Austin, Texas.

Memorials can be made to the American Heart Association, Wounded Warrior Project, or a charity of choice.

09/06/2025

“Swing low… sweet chariot, coming for to carry me home.”
“When the journey ends, let it be with peace, dignity, and love.”

If you’ve ever thought about making your wishes known, now is the time to plan ahead.

Prearranging your funeral is one of the greatest gifts you can give your family.

📞 Call us at 806-358-0441 and let’s talk about how we can help you and even receive a FREE Personal Planning Guide.

Dignity Memorial Service Corporation International

08/27/2025

Shara M. Partlow
APRIL 24, 1951 – AUGUST 25, 2025

Shara M. Partlow, age 74, of Amarillo, Texas passed away on Monday, August 25, 2025.

08/27/2025

Donald Rouse
JULY 12, 1961 – AUGUST 24, 2025

Donald Jay Rouse, 64, of Tulia, Texas, passed away surrounded by loved ones on August 24, 2025, from complications of pneumonia following chemotherapy. Don was diagnosed with lymphoma last spring and fought bravely throughout treatment, showing the same grit and humor that defined his life. He was born on July 12, 1961, in Borger, Texas, to James and Doris Rouse. The family eventually moved to nearby Amarillo, where he attended Stephen F. Austin Middle School and graduated from Tascosa High School in 1979. THS Rebels might remember Don’s love of baseball, theater, and journalism, but they certainly won’t forget his legendary pranks, which included filling the THS commons with tires; climbing the flagpoles on campus and replacing the flags with mannequin heads; and pilfering a bull figurine from a local steakhouse and placing its back side strategically in the window of the principal’s office. Don was a nut who knew how to have fun and made everyone around him laugh with his zest for living and crazy antics! Throughout his life, he wore many hats: painter (working alongside his father at Jack C. Thomas & Son in Amarillo as a young man), semi-pro baseball player, stand-up comic, actor, FX artist, cowboy, husband, and father. He appeared in and worked on special effects in movies (Wyatt Earp, FX in Dante’s Peak and Krippendorf’s Tribe) and television (Walker, Texas Ranger). His film and FX work earned him SAG and pyro cards. No matter where his adventures took him, Don always returned to his true calling as a cowboy. He was a gifted horse trainer, often called to break horses no one else could. He belonged in the saddle and was proud of the horses he shaped. He could turn steel into spurs, belt buckles, knives, and anything he could dream up. He also enjoyed writing cowboy poetry. Don met the love of his life, Brittany Baker, in 2004, and they married in 2005. They spent 20 years working side by side on ranches, throughout the seasons and in all types of weather. Over the years, there were tough challenges associated with the cowboy lifestyle; they tackled these together, bonded by their enduring love and a deep faith in Christ. They raised and homeschooled their children, Kourtnie and David, on the Conchas Ranch in Santa Rosa, New Mexico. Don taught his kids how to ride, rope, and stir up fun! He considered his family his greatest accomplishment in life.

He is survived by Britt; his daughter, Kourtnie Fuchs, and husband Seth; his son, David; his mother, Doris Hrin and husband, Mike; his brother, Darren Rouse, and wife, Linda; his sisters, Stephanie Atkinson, Danette Chialtas and husband, Speed, and Denise Hulen and husband; and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his father and a pack of loyal dogs and horses who have been anxiously awaiting his arrival. Don was a fire hose of stories, a man who could turn hard work into adventure, and someone who always left people laughing. He was a cowboy, a craftsman, a poet, a prankster, and above all, a devoted husband, father, brother, and son.

Services will be held on Friday, August 29, 2025, at 10 a.m. at the Central Church of Christ in Tulia. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donating to the Working Ranch Cowboys Association (WRCA) Crisis Assistance Fund. And if you really want to celebrate Don, tell a goofy joke or wild story, play a choice prank, or find a reason for a gut-busting belly laugh this week. He’ll be so honored!

~ Wise words to ponder, written by our dear cowboy during his battle with cancer ~

WHO KNEW?

I wanted to be closer to the Lord but I wanted a plan that was easier to afford. Pretty sure I was willing to gain, just not a big fan of going through pain. The Book says to take joy in tribulation. There is no doubt, I’d go without if given a choice, with loud voice, I would avoid the situation. Who knew cancer was the answer that I needed to receive? It’s damn sure a good chance sir to believe. It may not come with ease because it’s a demonic disease, but it will help you find your knees. When faced with death you think about the past and the future breath that could sure be your last. I’ve had moments of peace which passeth understanding but touch and go is not a landing. I’ve also learned that I have lots of friends that are much better friends than me. I’m grateful that I’ve been prayed for, and that all my sins have been payed for. I’m protected. He was resurrected. How my deal ends up won’t effect it. There’s comfort in knowing where I’m going. I’ll be the winner, because Jesus died for this sinner.

by Don Rouse

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