The opening reception for both shows will be Friday, Nov 7, come and go from
5-7 pm. Free admission. All welcome. Come visit with Dean Todd and other artists and guests. Light refreshments will be served.
Art Classes – The Center continues to have a wide variety of art classes scheduled for all ages. A Kids Paint Party with Jaye will be held on Nov 8. A Christmas Doorhanger Workshop with Brenda Magness is set for Nov 11. The Junk Journal Club will meet on Nov 12 from 2-4 pm. Watercolor with Chris Cra-
vens will be on Nov 13. Garden Charm Workshop with Michelle Haynes will be held on Nov 15. Oil and Cold Wax class with Wanda Oliver will be on Nov 18 & 21. A Reindeer Paint Party with Jessie from 3 Little Birds Painting will be held from 6-8:30 pm on Nov 18. Oil Pastels with Tatiana Murray will be on Nov 25. Brush and Brunch with Jaye includes both a painting class and lunch on Dec 9. Kids Crafts with Jaye and Youth Mixed Media with Sandy will be held in the afternoons on Nov 11, 18 & 25. Additional classes, details and registration can be found on the center’s website. Other Classes – There will be a Belly Dance Workshop on Nov 8 from 10 am to noon. The center also offers weekly yoga classes. Kristi Dunbar teaches yoga on Tuesdays at 6 pm and Jenny Schero teaches chair yoga on Wednesdays at 1 pm. Classes are $10 each for members and $15 each for non-members.
Continued
See Creative Arts on page 4
Evelyn Hicks 19th
Tanner Long 10th
Tony Long 11th
Cindy Hope 12th
Suzannah Wanner 14th
Kyle Sanderson 14th
Stacy Martin 17th
Darren York 17th
Blake Utter 18th
Tessie Cunningham 19th
Mike Hintergardt 21st
Lloyd Ray Long 20th
Elect BILL
COUNTY JUDGE CAREY
Bill Carey Announces Candidacy For Fannin County Judge
Hello, my name is Bill Carey and I am running to be your next Fannin County Judge in the March 3, 2026 Republican Primary. I am a conservative Republican who has lived with my wife Chantal in Fannin County for fourteen years. Our family motto is God first and always … together. I have been a successful
owner all my life. My background is in real estate, insurance, securities, financial planning and taxes. My wife and I are internationally published authors of twelve books on real estate investing including multiple editions of consumer self help books on how to sell your home without a broker. One of our books is a real estate college textbook and another is for agents in the real estate industry. Three of our books were top 10 real estate books of the year. If you elect me as your Fannin County Judge I am committed to working with your County Commissioners to substantially lower our county property tax rate. This will lower your property taxes no matter
how high our property appraisal values climb. Our Commissioners Court goal will be to find other revenue sources and income streams so that we can lower our county property tax rate and in coordination with our state representatives develop a plan to abolish Fannin County property taxes completely. Together we can stop the economic devastation that runaway county property taxes are having on our families and businesses.
The Fannin County Judge is the Chief Budget Officer for Fannin County. In my business life as a Real Estate Broker I have started and successfully managed two real estate companies. I have held two Security Licenses, an
Insurance License and been a Certified Tax Preparer. As your Fannin County Judge our Commissioners Court will know where every dollar earmarked for Fannin County comes from and we will know where every dollar is being spent.
The Fannin County Judge is also the Emergency Management Director. As your Fannin County Judge I will have your safety and wellbeing be of paramount importance. One of my top priorities will be to have the Commissioners Court work together with our Office of Emergency Management, our Sheriff’s Department, our County Constables, our Justices of the Peace, our County Court at Law and our District Court to have Fannin County be a safe and
Post-Election Summary and Reporting
Fannin County successfully completed the November 4 Election Day with a 15.5% turnout and submitted Election Night Reporting through the new TEAM module without issue. According to the Texas Secretary of State, Fannin County’s module was one of only a few across the state to function fully and correctly on election night — an accomplishment we can all be thankful for.
The Secretary of State’s office will remain in contact with me over the coming weeks as I finalize and certify results. Official canvass reports will be released following the final meeting of the Early Voting Ballot Board on Tuesday, November 12. Once results are finalized, the canvass will be certified by my signature, my official seal, and the approval of the Commissioners Court. Unofficial Results and Public Transparency
The unofficial election results and the Election Day voter rosters have been posted to the Fannin County Elections webpage for public access. Local media outlets have also received the requested unofficial results.
On November 5, our office received one ballot by mail postmarked November 3, which makes the ballot valid per Texas Election Code Sec. 86.007, and will be included in the final canvass results.
Post-Election Processing and TEAM Closure
Multiple post-election functions must be completed before the election can be officially closed in TEAM. These include:
• Ballot reconciliation and accounting
• Provisional ballot review and resolution
• Preparation of audit documentation
• Post-Election Audit
• Submission of certified canvass results
• Archiving of Election materials
Post-Election Audit
The Secretary of State released an official advisory identifying the contests selected for the post- election audit. In accordance with state law, Sec. 127.201, the post hand count audit has been scheduled during the week of November 12, with the Early Voting Ballot Board reconvening to complete this task.
Acknowledgments
A special thank-you to the Fannin County Sheriff and his two deputies for accompanying us on election night, and to the District Attorney’s Office for allowing us to use their meeting room for the Early Voting Ballot Board to process ballots by mail. Thank you to Dustin Morrow and his boy scouts for their assistance with cleaning the 1st Presbyterian Church on Election night, and to the County Clerk for sharing members of her staff with me to assist with Election night duties. My sincere appreciation also goes to Lisa York and Galen Bennett for their support in the tabulation room.
Debrief and Improvement Efforts
I will be inviting election judges and workers to participate in post-election debrief sessions to discuss their experiences, gather feedback, and share improvement ideas as we prepare for the 2026 election cycle. My first debrief with Mr. Spell from Precinct 19 (Honey Grove) provided valuable insight into how we can better serve voters at that location.
Administrative Updates and Staffing
A very special thank you to Stephanie Hawes, my Election Deputy Clerk, for assisting me in every way imaginable during my first Fannin County Election. Additionally, I have begun taking steps toward filling an existing vacancy in my office. I am currently drafting the job description for a second Clerk, and plan to post the position in the coming weeks.
IMPORTANT: Upcoming Ballot and Precinct Updates
Following an evaluation of our county’s current practices, I have made the administrative decision to return to a traditional precinct numeric system for labeling and generating ballot styles, beginning with the Primary Election. This will ensure that each voter receives the correct ballot style based on their location of residence, reinforcing election integrity and accuracy. To prepare voters for this transition, I will write an informational piece to publish in the local media to educate the public on precinct numeric systems — their history, function, and importance — ahead of the upcoming primary election. Precincts and their splits help ensure orderly administration of elections – they define who can vote where, which ballot style, which polling place, which offices/issues apply to each voter, and create manageable units for registration, polling-place placement, ballot creation, staffing, and tallying results. This legal framework gives structure to: where precincts are, how they are defined, how they are numbered, and how population growth changes are documented and identified for the proper conduct of Elections. Thank you to my election workers and volunteers for their commitment, professionalism, and teamwork in delivering a secure, transparent, and successful election for the voters of Fannin County, in the GREAT STATE OF TEXAS.
Sincerely, Your Elections Administrator -Cris Pérez García
drug free place to live and raise our families.
The Fannin County Judge is also the Chief Executive Officer of Fannin County and as such presides over the Fannin County Commissioners Court. We will restore respect and decorum to the Commissioners Court and each other as elected officials and to the citizens we serve. The Fannin County Commissioners Court belongs to the citizens of Fannin County. I will work with our Commissioners to develop new and innovative ways to make our county roads drivable and be safe for our loved ones. We can do this using our Precinct road budgets and having our team finding new ideas,
technologies and materials. As your County Judge I will promote our Fannin County way of life and preserve our Texas values as new people, new opportunities and new challenges arrive on our doorstep. Contact me with your ideas and concerns at electbillcarey@gmail.com, my Facebook page Elect Bill Carey, or text or call me at 817-526-1344. I ask for your support and vote on March 3, 2026 for Bill Carey for Fannin County Judge. Together we can bring Peace and Prosperity to Fannin County. May God bless you, your loved ones and Fannin County.
VOLUNTEERS NEEDED
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Letter to the Editor
Continued from page 1
parties. If your business, church, friend group or other organization would like to schedule their own private paint party, contact the center soon to discuss your plans. Prices start at $20 per person for kids and $30 per person for adults, with a minimum of 10 people. The Art Center’s normal hours of operation are Tuesday – Friday from 10 am to 5 pm and Saturdays from 10 am to noon. The Center will be closed Nov 26-28 for Thanksgiving. Be sure to remember the center’s art gallery and gift shop when doing your holiday shopping. The Creative Arts Center is a nonprofit organization with a mission of supporting the arts in Fannin County. They are located at 200 W 5th in downtown Bonham. Get more info by calling (903) 640-2196 or going to www. CreativeArtsCenterBonham. org.
A Matter of Concern
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James Cartwright Marines
Eula Sturdivant Phillips U.S. Army Air Force World War II Frank
Sgt. Steven Lynn Pemberton Air Force
David Phemister Marines
Byron Royse and wife Beverly
Stanley Eugene Waldrop served in the Navy during WWll, he was a gunner
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This week’s devotion comes from Matthew 24:4-8. There is no doubt that we are living in the end times. In this passage, Jesus warns us concerning what will be experienced during these times, and it is certainly unfolding before our very eyes. We should be cautious of those who say that they come in His name, and are merely wolves in sheep’s clothing, because they are definitely among us. 1 Peter 5:8 reminds us, “Be sober, be vigilant, because your adversary, the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour.” In verse 6 of Matthew 24, Jesus tells us that we will hear of wars and rumors of wars. Think about what is going on in the Middle East right now. Nation is rising against nation, and there are famines, earthquakes, diseases, among other things, just as Jesus tells us in verse 7. He also
reminds us not to be troubled, as these things must come to pass, but the end is not yet. Jesus explains, in this chapter, the events leading up to His return, and the tribulation period to follow. Fortunately we, as believers, won’t have to experience the tribulation period, because we will be taken home to Heaven with Him when He returns (see 1 Thessalonians 4). We are reminded in Matthew 24:42, “Watch therefore: for ye know not what hour your Lord doth come.” The Lord is coming back. The question is, will you be found faithful in His sight? Will you be ready?
The inspiration for this week’s message comes from a song that I started singing in church around the middle of 2023. It’s a different direction than I would normally go in for this, but it was what the Lord laid on my heart. This was made popular by Brian Free back in 1999. This song asks a very powerful question,
and this fits right in with this passage.
12-18-18
“This morning’s front page headline reads, ‘Disaster Strikes Once More.’ The writing on the wall is just too great to be ignored. Floods and earthquakes everywhere, violence plagues our land. The last days are upon us, Christ’s coming is at hand. Where would you be had Jesus come back five minutes ago? Would you still be here, alone and lost, without hope?
He will return as a thief in the night. Will you be taken or left behind? Where would you be had Jesus come back five minutes ago?”
If you are in search of a good church home, we invite you to come visit us, and be a part of our church family and worship at Central Baptist Church. Visitors are our honored guests, and we hope to see you this coming Sunday!
Bro. Josh Stevenson
Some Things We Know About Faith
By Mike Dickison Minister for the Ivanhoe Church of Christ
We know that Biblical Faith that saves can be seen in lives of Christians. The Hebrew writer informs us that “faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen” (Hebrews 11:1). James declares that faith can be seen in the work of Christians, “Yea, a man may say, Thou hast faith, and I have works: shew me thy faith without thy works, and I will shew thee my faith by my works” (James 2:18). We also know the Faith is an indispensable element of Christianity. Consider the message, “But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him” (Hebrews 11:6). We must
by Wil Pounds
believe that God is real, He is a rewarder, and we must diligently seek God. We know that Faith comes from God’s word. Paul wrote that “faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God” (Romans 10:17). Again, Paul, states that we must “live by faith” (Romans 1:17). We also find that “whatsoever is not of faith is sin” (Romans 14:23). We know that Faith is essential in prayer. James declares “If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him. But let him ask in faith, nothing wavering. For he that wavereth is like a wave of the sea driven with the wind and tossed” (James 1:5-6). Consider that “the prayer of faith shall save the sick, and the Lord shall raise him up; and if he have committed sins, they shall be
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forgiven him” (James 5:15).
We know that Faith does not stand alone. James testifies “that by works a man is justified, and not by faith only” (James 2:24). Peter writes that faith is the foundation on which the Christian character is built, “add to your faith virtue; and to virtue knowledge; And to knowledge temperance; and to temperance patience; and to patience godliness; And to godliness brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness charity. For if these things be in you, and abound, they make you that ye shall neither be barren nor unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ” (2 Peter 1:5-8).
We know that whosoever “is born of God overcometh the world: and this is the victory that overcometh the world, even our faith” (1 John 5:4).
Custom Made by God
Our great God and Savior knows everything, is everywhere, and is allpowerful.
The LORD God knows me because He made me, and since He made me, I am responsible to Him for my actions. That’s probably the biggest reason why people do not want to accept the fact that God created man. But whether a person acknowledges the facts about creation or not, he or she will still have to answer to Him personally.
The Psalmist David observed that the LORD God “formed my inward parts; You wove me in my mother’s womb” (Psalm 139:13). Our Creator not only created the first man Adam, but He continues to create. There is not another person on the face of this earth with the same genes, DNA, and chromosomes. I am a unique person, custom made by God for a specific purpose in history. No one else can fulfill that purpose in history; no one else can fulfill my purpose. God’s dealings with you and me are not a duplicate of His dealings with anyone else in time and space. It is unique to me because I am unique. There is no one else like me. A person who wants to be something different from God’s purpose for him is like a cancer cell. We become like cancer cells in the body of Christ when we
want to be like someone else and not what God wants us to be. God deals with each child differently. We do not trust Him when we ask that our experience duplicate someone else’s. No one is inferior or unspiritual because his or her experience is not just like someone else’s. Thank God that you are who you are. His resources have already been revealed in creating you. “I will give thanks to You, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made; Wonderful are Your works, and my soul knows it very well” (Psalm 139:14). Have you thanked God for making you just the way you are?
“My frame was not hidden from You, When I was made in secret, And skillfully wrought in the depths of the earth; Your eyes have seen my unformed substance; And in Your book were all written The days that were ordained for me, When as yet there was not one of them “ (Psalm 139:15-16).
I worship a God who knows me and is near me. He created me for today. There is only one me. I am a pattern that God will never use again. In all the time to come, there will never be another me. I am somebody. I am a unique creation of God. Therefore, I must be found doing the will of God. My responsibility is not to seek the praise of men, but to be what God made me. Have you considered who you are in God’s eyes? Have you in humility thanked
Him for making you so wonderfully complex? The Lord’s work is marvelous.
The Psalmist catches his breath and declares, “How precious also are your thoughts to me, O God! How vast the sum of them!” (v. 17). “How weighty are your designs” (NAB). “How immeasurable your concepts are” (R. K. Harrison). “How hard it is to grasp your thoughts” (Jerusalem Bible). “How deep I find Your thoughts” (NEB). “How precious and weighty!” (Amplified Bible).
How odd that in our day the U. S. government and the politically correct no longer refer to the unborn child as a baby. The fact is no one likes to think about killing an unborn baby so it has been renamed a fetus or an embryo or human tissue. God said it is His creation fearfully and wonderfully made. It is a baby custom made by God.
The LORD said to Jeremiah, “Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, and before you were born I consecrated you; I have appointed you a prophet to the nations” (Jer. 1:5). Each one of us is custom made by God.
Leonard First Assembly of God, 108 Pecan Leonard, Texas 469-450-9777
Allen’s Point Baptist Church 310 CR 2775 Honey Grove, TX 75446 903378-7038
Bailey Bible Baptist Church 205 Leslie Bailey, Texas 75413
Bethlehem Baptist Church “The House of Bread” 1415 Franklin Avenue, Bonham, TX 7541 Office: 903-583-8061
Bois D’Arc Creek Cowboy Church Hwy 121 & Edhube Road 903-583-1671
Boyd Baptist Church 3707 St. Hwy. 78 N Bonham, Texas Phone (903) 583-7288
Calvary Baptist Church 913 S. 5th St Bonham, TX 75418 903-583-3910
Central Baptist Church (Fundmental, Independent) 709 Union Ave. Bonham, Texas 75418 (903) 505-4124
Ivanhoe Baptist Church 4063 NO.FM 273 Ivanhoe, Texas 75447 (903)583-2359
Lamasco Baptist Church 346 CR 2615 Telephone, Texas 75488
Corinth Baptist Church 277 CR 1150 N. of Bonham on Highway 78 903 583 2750
Dial Baptist Church 16816 FM 1550 Honey Grove, TX 75446 903-378-7070
Duplex Baptist Church 313 CR 2102 Ivanhoe, Texas 75447 903-664-3175
Edhube Baptist Church 595 FM 2815 Bonham, TX 75418 903-583-2840
Elwood Baptist Intersection of CR 2125 and CR 2544 near Ivanhoe, Texas
Faith Independent Baptist Church 12676 W Hwy 82 Savoy, Tx 75479 903-965-5517
First Baptist Church of Bailey PO Box 221 Bailey, Texas 75413 (903) 583-0732
First Baptist Church of Bonham 710 N. Center Bonham, Texas 75418 (903) 583-0732
First Baptist Church of Dodd City PO Box 47 Dodd City, Texas 75438-0047 (903)583-4465
First Baptist Church of Honey Grove PO Box 124 Honey Grove, Texas 75446 (903)378-2768
First Baptist Church of Ladonia 301 East Main Ladonia, Texas 75449-100 (903)367-7038
First Baptist Church of Leonard 100 East Thomas St. [PO Box 1146] Leonard, TX 75452 (903) 587-2250
First Baptist Church of Pecan Gap PO Box 100 Pecan Gap, Texas 75469 (903)359-6683
First Baptist Church of Randolph PO Box 14 Randolph, Texas 75475 (903)583-6900
First Baptist Church of Savoy .O. Box 177 Savoy, Texas 75479 (903) 965-4160
First Baptist Church of Trenton PO Box 157 Trenton, Texas 75490 (903)989-2319
First Fannin Baptist Hispanic Church Rt. 4 Box 10 Bonham, Texas 75418 (903) 583-5727
Gober Baptist Church P.O. Box 82 Wolfe City, Texas 75496 (903) 583-2378
Grace Reformed Baptist Church 2800 10th St Honey Grove TX gracerbcbonham.com
Little Bethel Baptist Church PO Box 63 Ladonia, Texas 75449 Phone (903)367-7708
Mt. Pisgah Baptist Church Rt 1 Box 101B, PO Box 73, Ladonia, Texas 75449 Phone (903)367-7009
New Home Baptist Church 1300 N Maple St. Bonham 903-583-4509
Joyful Light Baptist Church 4695 FM 2645 Savoy, TX 75418 903-436-5440
Landmark Missionary Baptist Church 1409 W. Market St. Honey Grove, Texas 75446 (615) 448-8802
New Zion Baptist Church 627 County Road 1265 Bonham, TX 75418 903-961-2027
Pilgram Rest Baptist Church 703 Agusta St. Trenton, Texas
Ravenna Baptist Church 100 Elm Street Ravenna, Texas 75476
Rising Son Cowboy Church 1526 CR 2010 Ivanhoe, Texas 75447 903-640-3377
Sandy Baptist Church Ravenna, Texas 75476 (903) 583-9546
Seventh & Main Baptist Church 617 N. Main Bonham, Texas 75418 (903) 583-8679
Sovereign Grace Baptist Church 601 S. 4th St. Bonham, TX 469-207-1141
Telephone Baptist Church located on FM 273 in Telephone Office phone: 903-664-2377
Primera Iglesia Baustia Hispana 1134 FM 273 Bonham, Texas 75418 903-583-5727
Trinity Baptist Church 219 W. Denison Bonham, Texas 75418 (903) 583-3388
Valley Creek Baptist Church 3615 FM 896, Leonard, TX 75452 903-587-2386
Westside Baptist Church 912 W. Commerce St. Honey Grove, Texas 75446 903-249-2987
Windom Baptist Church 203 1st Street Windom, TX 75492 (903) 623-2215
Wild Horse Creek Cowboy Church 2992 CR 2285 Telephone, Texas 75488 903-486-1630
United Methodist Church 207 Second Street PO Box 936 Windom, TX 75492 940-390-0146 Pleasant Grove CME Church box 34 Ladonia TX 75449 Hwy 64 903-367-7870 St. Paul CME Church 801 E. 6th St. Bonham,
OBITUARIES
Cecil Wayne Bethel
Cecil Wayne Bethel, age 83, passed away at his home in Bonham, Texas on October 30, 2025. Cecil was born on February 20, 1942, to parents Kenneth and Lois Bethel. He was raised in Ravenna along with two siblings. Upon graduating from Bonham High School, he enlisted in the United States Army-serving two years in Hawaii during the Vietnam War. He made his career as a machinist at General Cable Corporation, retiring after 35 years. Cecil was a member of First Baptist Church in Bonham. His lifelong marriage to Martha (McCraw) Bethel lasted 58 years and they raised two sons, Chad and Jason. He became “Pappy” in 1999 when his first grandson, Blaine, was born. In just a few years, he earned three more grandsons-Carson, Tate and Colin. He got to meet his first great granddaughter, Harper Clark, in September.
Despite being a man of few words, Cecil loved to joke and had a sense of humor. He had a love for photography, hunting, chuckwagon cooking and carving. Designing and creating treasures were Cecil’s pastime. He has quite the collection of knives, wooden items, and metal designs that he made all on his own. Many of us have the designs that Cecil crafted. His designs have traveled far-from carved ducks, wall crosses, pendants, to spurs many cowboys use today. Buckles that carry the weight of belts and saddles define his brand. His ability to see details then put those visions into objects was his labor of love. His favorite movie was Lonesome Dove and he could recite just about every line! Cecil was well known for his skills with a smoker and his signature creation were jars of candied jalapeños known as “Pappy’s Peppers”. Cecil joins in heaven his parents Kenneth and Lois Bethel. He is survived by his wife Martha (McCraw) Bethel, son Chad Clark and daughter in law Judy, son Jason Bethel and daughter in law Robin, grandsons Blaine Bethel, Carson Clark and wife Jenna Clark, Tate Bethel, Colin Clark, and great granddaughter Harper Clark. Cecil is also survived by his brother Jimmy Bethel and sister Elaine Savage, cousins and close friends Mike Bethel and Justin Bethel along with several nieces and one nephew. He leaves behind lifelong friends (some who called him “Beefy”), for whom he cared deeply.
Family visitation was held on Sunday, November 2, 2025 at Cooper Sorrells Funeral Home from 6-8pm with graveside services held on Monday, November 3, 2025 at 11am, Willow Wild Cemetery. Standing in as pallbearers were Mike Bethel, Justin Bethel, Blaine Bethel, Carson Clark, Tate Bethel and Colin Clark.
The Bethel family wishes to thank everyone for their prayers, love and support in Cecil’s final days. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to First Baptist Church, Bonham.
To share a memory or leave an online condolence, please visit www.coopersorrells.com
Thank You to Turrentine Jackson Morrow Funeral Home For Sponsoring The Obituary Section.
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PSALMS 23
The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want.
He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: He leadeth me beside the still waters.
He restoreth my soul:
He leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name’s sake.
Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me;
Thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.
Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies:
Thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life:
And I will dwell in the house of the LORD for ever.
Roy Vernon Floyd
May 28, 1945 – October 29, 2025
Roy Vernon Floyd, a devoted public servant, fearless advocate for Bonham, Texas, and loving brother, husband, father, grandfather, and uncle passed away peacefully at his home on October 29, 2025. He was 80 years old.
Born on May 28, 1945, in Alexandria, Louisiana, Roy lived a life marked by service, leadership, and compassion. Known throughout North Texas for his unwavering commitment to community growth, Roy spent decades working to bring people together in the name of progress that benefited everyone and solidarity. His leadership reflected a deep conviction that a community can only achieve success when those most in need succeed.
Education and Early Life Roy graduated from Frederick High School in Frederick, Oklahoma, in 1963. He went on to earn his Bachelor’s Degree from Arlington Baptist College in Arlington, Texas, in 1968. A lifelong learner, he continued his education through additional studies at Southern Methodist University, Grayson County College, and East Texas State University.
Community and Organizational Leadership
Roy’s dedication to public service was matched by his tireless work through a number of civic and philanthropic organizations. His leadership and influence extended to local, regional, and state levels, including:
●Bonham Rotary Club – Officer
●Friends of Sam Rayburn – President
●Texoma Regional Blood Center Board – President (30+ years)
●United Way of Fannin County – Chairman
●March of Dimes, Fannin County – Chairman
●Bonham Chamber of Commerce – Board Member
●Bonham Industrial Foundation – Officer and Executive Director
●Texoma Senior Nutrition Board – Member
●Texas Association of Broadcasters – Board Member
●Oklahoma Association of Broadcasters – Board Member
●Texas Employment Jobs Service Committee – Member
●Texas Council of Governments – President
●Texoma Council of Governments – President (25+ years)
●Texoma Workforce Board – Member
●Texoma Foundation Board – Chairman
●NETSEO Trails Boy Scouts Board – Member
Professional Experience
Roy’s career was marked by an extraordinary range of accomplishments, all guided by a commitment to progress and opportunity for others. He served as Mayor of Bonham from 2004 to 2021, and as Executive Director of the Bonham Industrial Foundation for over 40 years. In addition, he owned and managed KFYN/KFYZ Radio in Bonham from 1975 to 2006, where his voice became a familiar and trusted presence in the community. Roy hosted many beloved and long-running local radio programs, including “Town and Country,” “Sounding Board,” “Turkey Talk,” “Trading Post,” “Letters to Santa,” and many others. His wit, warmth, and gift for conversation made these programs community favorites for generations.
He also proudly served as the voice of the Bonham High School Fighting Purple Warriors, announcing countless football games and bringing the excitement of Friday nights to listeners across North Texas. He also announced countless school sporting events and functions from all over Fannin County.
●Chairman, North Texas Certified Development Board – 1984–2024
●President/Officer, Texas Association of Regional Councils – 1982–1985
●President, Texoma Regional Planning – 1980–1989
●Owner & Manager of multiple radio stations (1971–2000): KTAT, KORC, KBGH, KCAN, KJEM, KVLH
●Owner/Manager, Bonham City Limits Restaurant — 1995–2000
●Youth Director, Sherwood Park Baptist Church, Irving, TX – 1968–1970 Awards and Recognition
Throughout his remarkable life of service, Roy Floyd received numerous honors recognizing his leadership, integrity, and enduring impact on his community, region, and nation. In 2023, Roy was deeply honored to receive the United States Presidential Community Servant Recognition Award from the White House, one of the nation’s highest distinctions for civic service. That same year, he was presented with the Bonham Chamber of Commerce Legacy Award, celebrating a lifetime of dedication to the growth, prosperity, and unity of his beloved hometown. He was also honored with:
●TCOG Better Leaders Award – 2018
●Community Builders Award (Freemason’s Constantine Lodge #13) – 2015
●H.G. Dulaney Public Service Award (Friends of Sam Rayburn) – 2015
●Texoma Regional Citizen of the Year – 1995–1996
●Bonham Citizen of the Year – 1991
These honors reflect not only his many accomplishments but also the respect, admiration, and gratitude of those whose lives he touched through decades of service and leadership.
Major Projects and Accomplishments
Through the Bonham Industrial Foundation, Roy led recruitment efforts that brought countless jobs and industries to the region, including two state prisons, Clayton Homes, KWAL Paint, TCI Cable, Wire & Plastics, Renlita Doors, Clyde Cosper Texas Veterans Home, Dalnor Industries, HR Industries, Super Sacks Plant, Kelso, and North Lake Controls. He was instrumental in countless community development projects, including the Lower Bois D’Arc Project, Holiday Inn Express, VA Expansion, and the Formation Committee for the Annual Heritage Day Festival. Family and Legacy
Roy is survived by his beloved wife, Lynda Floyd of Bonham; his son, Sean Floyd of Bonham; and his daughter, Rory Floyd and husband Brian Hilliard of Dodd City, Texas. He is also survived by his sister and brother-in-law, Dianne and Allan Gant of Stillwater, Oklahoma; sister and brother-in-law, Debbie and Brent Morey of Frederick, Oklahoma; brother and sister-in-law, Randy and Denise Floyd of Enid, Oklahoma, and nephew and spouse, Chad and Sondra Floyd of Austin, Texas. Roy leaves behind his adored grandchildren: Will, Worth, and Wyatt Lacy, Matthew Floyd, Kylie Walker, numerous nephews, a niece, and four great-nephews and a great niece.
He was preceded in death by his father, Reverend Vernon Floyd; his mother, Omega Floyd; his brother, James Floyd; and nephews Tyler Floyd and Seth Floyd.
Roy Floyd’s fearless advocacy and steadfast vision left an indelible mark on Bonham and North Texas. His compassion, courage, and commitment to community uplift will continue to inspire generations to come.
As Roy always ended his broadcasts of “Town and Country”: “…and remember, keep smiling!”
The Visitation & Memorial Service celebrating Roy’s life and legacy will be on Friday, November 14. The visitation will take place at 1 PM, with the Memorial Service starting at 2 PM. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the Bonham Senior Citizens Center to continue the community service that Roy so deeply valued. Contributions may be coordinated by phone at (214) 738-9975. To share a memory or leave an online condolence, please visit www.coopersorrells.com
God’s Garden
God looked around His garden And found an empty place. He then looked down upon the earth And saw your tired face. He put His arms around you And lifted you to rest. God’s garden must be beautiful He always takes the best. He saw the road was getting rough And the hills were hard to climb, So He closed your weary eyelids And whispered “Peace be thine.” It broke our hearts to lose you But you didn’t go alone, For part of us went with you The day God called you home.
He Came Out Last
7/3/18
By Skipper Steely
Most Americans think the Great War, later called World War I, ended at the 11th hour on the 11th of November, 1918. But not for Ladonia, Texas native General Wilds Preston “Dick” Richardson. He finally left an assignment in Northern Russia during the late Summer of 1919. In all probability, he was the last of the American infantry commanders to close his war office.
After the Armistice date, Americans, the English, the French, the Poles, and soldiers from some other countries placed troops there to protect a huge amount of supplies stored for use by the former Russian Tsar’s government against the German onslaught. The supplies were not needed for war against Germany after the Russian revolution began, but needed to be guarded while governments met at Versailles to craft a treaty. Four months later, however, by mid-March 1919, some 5,500 Americans found themselves somewhat stranded in the cold, working on projects and doing some fighting. They were defending regional Russians from a faction of the Russian disturbance. Parents, especially of those in the 339th Infantry Regiment originally called “Detroit’s Own,” eventually pushed their Congressmen hard enough to demand these soldiers come home.
After December 13, Wilson was in Paris, France, attempting to shore up those countries who went to war and find some method of a long-term peace. He also had another problem—the American soldiers in Russia.
About March 17, 1919 Richardson was called to a meeting, probably at the Quai d’Orsay ministry complex. With a small staff of 35 officers and 267 enlisted men, Richardson was sent by President Woodrow Wilson, General
Tasker H. Bliss, and General John J. Pershing to a “wobbly venture” at a place called Murmansk. Richardson was ordered to extract the American soldiers, who were called “besogged troops” by the British lieutenant later left behind to work on a graves registration project in the Arkhangelsk Oblast. He thought all the soldiers were rather bogged down in a confusing mess. By now the event was labeled the Polar Bear Expedition. A cable was sent to the American Arkhangelsk Ambassador outlining the decision to leave. Richardson departed on his assigned mission from England March 31. By the time he arrived at the city of Archangel and began the process for all his command to say goodbye to Northern Russia, the mid-April 1919 weather was still cold and wet. The temperature was 34 degrees, with a harsh, persistent winter hanging on. Accompanying Richardson were many railroad personnel of the 310th Engineers, giving the impression that work would be done by Americans before the final decision to leave arrived. More British were incoming, also. The withdrawal orders found the American troops finally on board ships and gone by June. It was no longer cold, but 90 degrees “in the shade!” By July 11 the last of the 339th and some other American units from Northern Russia debarked from Brest, France for home. They arrived in New York City just days after Wilson brought home the Treaty of Versailles for Congressional approval. Meanwhile, Richardson remained in Russia with part of his staff and some volunteer railroad engineers. The English wanted to stay until they had formed and trained a reliable Russian army ready for the onslaught of the revolutionary Bolsheviks. But, that ability
was not possible. The last 709 American members of the medical units and the 310th engineers left Archangel July 28. Some others left Murmansk two days later. Along with them went eight Russian brides and numerous adopted young Russians!
Though Russians had been promised protection by both the Americans and English, residents now saw the contingents leaving. By the first week of September, only a few special American officers remained. Embassies in town were vacated. The British were set to leave in three weeks. They blamed the Americans for the debacle; the Americans were not happy with working alongside the British. One American said, “We beat the British twice, so why should we salute a British officer!”
Another complained that the British officers could not even speak good English. The saga was so little known nor taught in history books that when Soviet leader Nikita Khrushchev made a state visit to the United States in 1959 he was told that Americans had never fought on Russian soil. “You are wrong,” the premier said, and reminded them of 19181919 when not only were American troops in Russia, they were fighting against his government! Few of the allied soldiers who served in and near Murmansk knew why they spent 8-10 months on Russian soil.
General Richardson formally closed his Archangel headquarters on August 5, 1919, and after traveling the region some, left for Scotland on the hospital steamer called the Kalyan. In February 1920 the Red Army marched into Archangel, meeting with little resistance. As with the Afghanistan exit by allies two years ago, little was left the Russians to fight with. Citizens of the Oblast were assimilated into the Soviet cause.
By the time Richardson was sailing back to the United States, word came
Rosella Smith
Rosella Smith, 87, of Honey Grove, Texas, passed away on October 30, 2025, at the VA Community Living Center in Bonham, Texas. She was born on September 21, 1938, in Memphis, Tennessee, to Floyd Smith and Ruby Marie Smith.
After graduating from high school, Rosella enlisted in the United States Air Force.
Beginning a lifetime of adventure and service, she enjoyed traveling and exploring different areas of the world, Europe being one of them. Later, she made her home along the east coast shores of Long Island, New York and Florida, where she found great joy and peace by the beach.
Rosella enjoyed setting up her booth at local markets, where she showcased unique jewelry and accessories she had for sale. In 1998, she moved to Honey Grove to be close to her daughter, Penni, and her family, becoming a familiar face in the community. Many people remember Rosella fondly as their “first boss” as she worked alongside her daughter at her store, Penni’s Convenience Store, serving as manager even after the business changed hands, until her retirement.
Rosella was a devoted animal lover, an avid reader, and a passionate football fan with a sharp sense of humor. Though she valued her privacy, her deep love for her family was always evident to those who knew her. She is survived by her beloved daughter, Penni Neeley and husband Terry of Honey Grove; grandchildren Jeanne Ashlock and husband Clint of Bonham, Sherry Stover and husband Randy of Princeton, Shelby Neeley of Honey Grove, and Marlee Randall and husband Richard of Fort Worth; two great-grandsons, Gavin Collier and Seven Collier, both of Bonham; and numerous nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends who will miss her dearly. A memorial visitation to honor Rosella’s life will be held at Cooper-Sorrells Funeral Home in Honey Grove, Texas. Details regarding the date and time are pending. To share a memory or leave an online condolence please visit, www.coopersorrells.com
that Wilson suffered a stroke on October 2. Richardson never saw him again, but received a Distinguished Service Medal for his
command of the American Expeditionary Forces in North Russia. Richardson’s
tangible work for the Army and citizens of his country had been years before. He created most of the roads in Alaska, with one named for him and a joint military base still stands with his name. His portrait hangs there.
Richardson was briefly given command of the 5th United States Army Infantry Division. He retired at his permanent rank of colonel in October 1920 after helping write the history of World War I. He spent his last years living in Washington
D.C., residing at the Army and Navy Club. Richardson never married, and after his death in 1929, was buried at West Point among schoolmates, most of whom knew little or nothing of the American intervention into Russia. Congress promoted him back to brigadier general by a June 1930 act.
U.S. Navy transport ship The General W.P. Richardson was named in his honor during World War II. His much younger stepbrother and cousin, Admiral James Otto Richardson, was Fleet commander-in-chief in 1941, later helping design the current Department of Defense operation.
Note: The life of W.P. Richardson [1861-1929], who personally dealt with at least three presidents, is told in the digital book called “Allied Intervention in Russia 1918-1920: General W.P. Richardson and His Role in Withdrawal of American Troops.” A month before he died, he was still active in meetings on the future of Alaska. A historical monument to his efforts stands on the Richardson Highway today.
OBITUARIES
Ariann Cheri Boisvert
On October 28, 2025, we lost our beloved Ariann, silently and unexpectedly. Formerly of Crafton, Pennsylvania, living in Bonham, Texas. Ariann was born on July 18, 1971, in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. She was preceded in death by her grandparents and is survived by her parents Sandra and Dan Rosga, her significant other Tom Ferguson and her beloved cat Mama. There will be a private service in Texas, and she will be buried at a later date in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Cremation arrangements are under the direction of Cooper-Sorrells Funeral Home. To share a memory or leave an online condolence please visit, www.coopersorrells.com
Stephen John Hadsall
Stephen John Hadsall returned home to his Heavenly Father Sunday November 2, 2025. He was greeted there by his wife Jean Hadsall, son Stephen Joshua, and daughter Kelsey. He died from cardiovascular disease. Local arrangements are under the care of Cooper-Sorrells Funeral Home in Bonham, TX.
John was born in Pasadena, California to Stephen Wayne and Genevieve Hadsall. He attended Baldwin Park High school where he met his high school sweetheart and eternal companion Velora Jean Hunter. He and Jean were married August 27, 1965, at the Methodist church in Baldwin Park. Shortly thereafter he was drafted and proudly served his country in the Vietnam war. They were introduced to The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day saints and were baptized July 5, 1975. A year later they took their three children Doreen, Joshua, and LukE to be sealed together for time and all eternity October 1976 at the Los Angeles Temple.
John worked as a Dental Laboratory Technician creating dentures. He built his own company Hadsall Dental Laboratory. He and Jean raised their children in Southern California, South Carolina, and Blackwell, Oklahoma. He later moved to Texas and began working for the VA. Throughout Jean’s years battling cancer John took great care of her until her passing October 7, 2006.
Later he met and married Mary Ann Laughlin and increased his family by becoming a stepfather to her 4 children, grandpa to 14 grandchildren, and 1 great grand kiddo.
Throughout John’s life he had a servant heart and spent his time volunteering service to his community, family, and friends. He was a leader for the Boy Scouts of America, was a temple worker in the Dallas Temple, served as Branch president for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day saints in Blackwell, and served a mission as an addiction recovery specialist. John was a skilled craftsman creating beautiful wood turned ornaments, pens, and bowls. He also created wood toys for his posterity. He turned jars for the organization Beads of Courage for children with childhood cancer. He volunteered for Habitat for Humanity. He was a certified HAM radio operator with the handle KA6IZA. He was a great collector of many tools, trinkets, and wonders untold. He was a learner throughout his life and loved to study the scriptures and books. He would study how to build, create, or fix.
He is survived by his wife Mary Ann, his sister Betty and Ray Rincon, his children Doreen and Michael Perdue, LukE and Meghan Hadsall, Jerushia Dyer, Heather and Shawn Bradford, Josiah and Lisa Hadsall. Grandchildren Audree and Phil Bearss, Bailee Jordan, Clairee Jordan, Stephen Oliver Hadsall, Simon Hadsall, Hailee Dyer, Hannah Dyer, Ella Dyer, Emma Bradford, Stephen Alex Bradford, Hunter Hadsall, and Carter Hadsall, as well as 2 great grandchildren. A graveside service was held on Friday, November 7, 2025, at Blackwell Cemetery in Blackwell, OK beginning at 11:00AM. A memorial service was held on Saturday, November 8, 2025, beginning at 11:00AM, at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints located at 1540 Hwy 78 South, Bonham, TX 75418.
In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Humanitarian Aid Fund. To convey condolences or to sign an online registry, please visit www.coopersorrells.com or www.robertsandsonfh.com
General Wilds
Preston “Dick” Richardson
Staff Sgt. Ellis Roberts & Sgt. Charles Roberts
walkway in Hillsboro, TX by their Great-nephew, Ray Roberts.
Submitted by Paul Chandler
Staff Sgt. Ellis H. Roberts, Jr. was killed in the crash of an Army bomber, on the coast of Dutch Guinea, while enroute to a field of foreign service on January 15, 1943.
SSgt. Roberts was a gunner on the bomber and completed his training skills with high honors. He was 31 years of age and had been in the service 10 months and 1 day at the time of his death. He attended Bonham schools.
Sgt. Charles E. Roberts served as a tail gunner on a B-24 Liberator bomber with the15th AAF based in Italy. He was killed in action December 6, 1944 in Barri, Italy at age 26. He was awarded an Air Medal in October 1944 for his 26 combat missions over Austria, Germany, Bulgaria, Romania and support missions for the troops fighting the invasion of France. Sgt. Roberts was a graduate of Bonham High School.
Parents, Mr. & Mrs. Ellis H. Roberts lost two sons in WWII.
Bonham State Park, Park Road 24. Park Road 24 in the Bonham State Park will have daytime lane closures while crews rehabilitate the main road, camping spots and parking lots within the park. Detour routes will be present during construction to allow for the flow of traffic.
FM 68, at the North Sulphur River bridge. FM 68 at the North Sulphur River bridge replacement is completed and the bridge is open to traffic. However, construction crews will continue working on the remaining bridge structure and roadway final works. During this final stage, traffic is asked to watch for workers and equipment and drive slowly when going through the work zone.
FM 2645, from FM 898 to FM 1753. Watch for daytime lane closures as crews work to rehabilitate and widen the roadway to an overall width of 26 feet. Motorists should expect delays as signals and pilot cars direct traffic through the work zone.
FM 274, from SH 78 to FM 1753. Watch for daytime lane closures as crews work to rehabilitate and widen the roadway to an overall width of 26 feet. Motorists should expect delays as signals and pilot cars direct traffic through the work zone.
SH 121 overpass at US 69. The SH 121 overpass at US 69 opened to all traffic on 6/23/2025. Construction crews will continue working on minor items at this location. Motorists should expect delays as there will be daily lane closures through the construction zone.
SH 78 from FM 273 to Oklahoma State line: Watch for daytime lane closures as crews work to rehabilitate the roadway. Motorists should expect delays as signals and pilot cars direct traffic through the work zone.
CR 1202 at Tributary of Brushy Creek. The onsite detour on CR 1202 at Tributary of Brushy Creek has been removed. The new bridge is competed and open to traffic. Traffic is asked to approach the bridge slowly and drive at an appropriate speed through the work zone while crews continue working on finishing the remaining bridge work.
CR 2865 at Sanders Creek Tributary. CR 2865 at Sanders Creek Tributary was closed to traffic on Monday, April 21 to allow for replacement of the bridge. The bridge at Sanders Creek Tributary is completed and opened to traffic. The bridge on CR 2825 at Sanders Creek was closed on June 21 & the Contractor demolished the bridge. The bridge is now completed and opened to traffic.
SH 78, from US 69 to Collin County line. Watch for daytime lane closures as maintenance crews perform overlay operations on the roadway. Motorists should expect delays as flaggers and pilot cars direct traffic through the work zone.
Happy Veterans Day to our military Veterans and their families! There are numerous local and nearlocal businesses that offer discounts and incentives on Veterans Day including retail shops and eating establishments. There are too many to mention in this article however, a quick Internet search will highlight the participating organizations. These discounts and incentives are the community’s way of saying thank you for your service. Veterans Day is also a good opportunity to file what VSO’s refer to as an, “INTENT TO FILE.” An Intent to File (ITF) is a formal notification by a potential claimant that they (claimant) will be filing a formal claim with the VA within the next 365-day period. The ITF establishes an initial pay date for favorably adjudicated claims, including pension claims, disability claims, and survivor benefits claims. Think of an ITF as a kind of savings account for claimants. If you’ve read my past articles, you know that I always encourage my clients to file an ITF annually whether or not you plan on filing a claim. Not having an active ITF on file is often an opportunity missed. Because an ITF can only be filed once a year, Veterans Day seems like an easily remembered date to file your ITF. You can reach out to the VA directly at 1-800-827-1000 to file your ITF, or reach out to Fannin County Veteran Services for assistance. You can also file an ITF online if you’ve set up a user account at va.gov, which I also highly recommend. As always, many thanks to our Veterans and their families for their service and sacrifice. Happy Veterans Day and happy birthday wishes to the United States Marine Corps which celebrates its 250th birthday on November 10th. Semper Fi, Marines. Paul Chandler, Fannin County Veteran Services Officer: (903) 912-0036 or vso@fanninco.net.
Sgt. Charles Roberts
Brothers, SSgt. Ellis H. Roberts and Sgt. Charles Roberts were honored with memorial bricks on the Texas Heritage Museum
Trenten
Lloyd Dodson
Chas Hartwell
Bryson Hartwell
Cary Hartwell
Justin Hartwell
Joe Frizell Air Force Nick Gross
Alvin D. Nichols Marines 1973-1974 Honorably discharged in 1974
Joe Wayne Estes U.S. Naval Reserves 1973
Marciano (Tonto) Martinez Viet Nam LRRP Sniper 75th INF Ranger Co.’D’ 151st Indiana National Guard 1969 - 1970 Long Binh Ranger Scout Sniper RTO
Chase Woodruff USMC, served 4 years and combat tour in Syria.
Rodney Gibson Army
Jewell Farris Cox US Army
Sgt. Harry Hammett Army 1961
D.R.
Joseph Smotryski Air Force Sgt. Edward Hammett Army
(Dub) Hodge US Navy
William D. (Jack) Taylor US Army WWII Purple Heart Recipient
William Carl Beasley (Bill) Air Force 1942-1946
Bobby
Sgt.
Joe Bob Estes Served in WWII
Raymond L. Meek WWII 99th Signal Battalion Co. C
Clyde Hartwell
SFC. Louis E. Holmes Feb. 1948 - Feb, 1952
Deryl Bishop
Crawford Ragon Marines 4 years
Billy Max Duncan Ivanhoe, Texas PFC. US ARMY Berlin Crisis 1961-1963
OBITUARIES
George Edward Kitto
George Edward Kitto, 80, of Bonham, Texas, passed away on November 2, 2025, at Texoma Medical Center in Bonham. He was born on September 16, 1945, in Kerrville, Texas, to Frank Kitto and Anita Burkhardt.
George was a proud veteran of the United States Army. Following his military service, he built a career as a truck driver.
He had a lifelong love of cars and enjoyed watching car shows on television. An outdoorsman at heart, George found peace in hunting and fishing. He also cherished old country music, which spoke to his heart and spirit.
George was preceded in death by his parents. He is survived by his devoted caretakers, Sharee Owens, Adriane Chaffin, and all other loving caretakers at Hoffman Mraz, along with Adriane’s husband, Dale, who shared many of George’s interests. He also leaves behind numerous friends from Hoffman Mraz in Bonham, who became more like family.
Cremation arrangements are under the direction of Cooper-Sorrells Funeral Home. George will be interred at the DFW National Cemetery in Dallas, where he will rest among his fellow veterans — a place of honor he deeply deserved. To leave an online condolence or share a memory please visit, www.coopersorrells.com
Week of November 5, 2025
James Paul Smith
James Paul Smith passed on November 4, 2025, at the age of 85. His service was held at 12PM, Monday, November 10, 2025, at Turrentine Jackson Morrow Funeral Home, 701 North Cedar Street, Leonard, Texas 75452. Family welcomed guests during a visitation from 11AM-12PM on Monday, November 10, 2025, at Turrentine Jackson Morrow Funeral Home. James was born on February 14, 1940, in Red River County, Texas to parents, Alfonzo and Angie Jewel Taylor Smith. He retired from the City of Dallas, Texas after 24 years of faithful service in 1995. He and his wife, Nancy Jean Smith of 38 years, moved to Leonard, Texas, from Seagoville, Texas, in 2005. James is survived by his wife, Nancy Smith of Leonard, Texas; children, Paula and Leigh Hubbard Smith of Lone Star, Texas, Judy Altom and husband, Daryl, of Scurry, Texas, Karen Guzman and husband, Paul, of Mesquite, Texas, Laurie Pasch of Everett, Washington, and Jason Smith of Indianapolis, Indiana; step-children, Veta Newton of Denton, Texas, Janet Brewer and husband, Dale, of Leonard, Texas, and Kenneth Edwards and wife, Teri of Denton, Texas; brother, Larry Gene Smith and wife, Shelia of Cunningham, Texas; sisters, Ruth Ann Coleman of Reno, Texas, and Barbara Jewel Merchant of Mt Pleasant, Texas; brother in law, Larry Haskell of Deport, Texas; sister in laws, Betty Ann Smith of Gilmore, Texas, and Dynetta Smith of Paris, Texas; and many grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces and nephews.
He is preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Charley Dale Smith of Blossom, Texas, Donald Ray Smith of Paris, Texas, Darrell Wayne Smith of Irving, Texas, and Fonzo Grant Smith of Deport, Texas; and sisters, Nova Sue Goley of Paris, Texas, Shirley June Haskell of Deport, Texas, Karen Lee Cherry of Deport, Texas, and Opal Juanita Smith at 6 months old of Red River County, Texas.
The family would like to thank Dr. Wynn, Dr. Norris, Dr. Swami, and Dr. Marshall for without them, he would have died in 2016.
Pallbearers for the service will be Daryl Altom, Paul Guzman, Connor Altom, Seth Affuso, Justin Weisse, and Kevin Williams.
Skipper Enterprises LLC
Game Warden Field Notes
Bois d’Arc EXCELLENT. Normal stain; 73 degrees; 1.82 below pool. There is good bass top water action with choppos or spook type baits early around pond weed or grass. Wind blown banks with grass are producing good catches with spinnerbaits and chatterbaits in 1-3 feet. Try and match the size of the bait in the water. White is the best color. Flukes and yum dingers are good on the edge of pond weed and grass on windy banks 1-4 feet. Squarebill crankbaits are fair over shallow pond dams 3-5 feet. Texas rig bite is slow on timber 3-5 feet. Report by Marc Mitchell, Mitchell’s Guide Service. Crappie are good in deep trees in 15-30 feet of water suspended in 15-22 feet. Fish are transitioning and related to the bottom due to the northern wind. As a southern front moves in expect the fish to rise again. Secondary creek channels and bank line break lines are good. Report by River Bottom Boys Guide Service. Cooper GOOD. Water stained; 73 degrees; 3.10 feet below pool. Crappie are good with some fish still shallow in 2-6 feet of water at the base of trees, and some fish have transitioned to the creek channels in 15-20 feet of water. Minnows are preferred over jigs. Report by River Bottom Boys Guide Service. Lavon FAIR. Water stained; 76 degrees; 2.71 feet below pool. Crappie can be caught on brush and standing timber in 10-20 feet with minnows and jigs. White bass are very active until 9 a.m. in 10-20 feet of water. Check every main lake point until you land on a school. The best bite is on white or chartreuse 1 ounce slabs. Catfish are on flats near drop-offs in 10-15 feet of water with punch bait, stink bait and cut bait. Having a spot chummed out before you get there will make it way easier. Report by Carey Thorn, White Bass Fishing Texas. Ray Roberts FAIR. Water slightly stained; 75 degrees; 0.61 feet below pool. Crappie are good on brush piles in 20-28 feet of water, or timber in 6-8 or 12-18 feet of water. Use live minnows or natural bait colored jigs. Largemouth bass are good with buzz baits and topwater lures. Target offshore rocks in 16-22 feet of water, or shallow vegetation and cover with spinnerbaits, chatterbaits, or swimbaits. Channel catfish are good on baited holes. Blue catfish can be caught on flats with 18-24 feet of water with cut bait. Sand bass are fair on humps with live bait, or slabs. Report by Daniel Koberna, Lt. Dan’s Crappie Co. Texoma GOOD. Water stained; 74 degrees; 0.39 feet above pool. Striper fishing is good on live bait. Water temperatures are in the low 70s and falling this week. Watch for gulls working active fish near the river channels and on shallow flats. Fish are on humps and ledges in 25-45 feet of water. Catching is good and getting better. Big blue catfish are off the ledges on deep flats near the river channels in 40-65 feet of water. Whole gizzard shad or cut rough fish. Eater size catfish are still piled up in the backs of ditches off the river channels in 2025 feet of water. Crappie are piled up on brush in 1218 feet of water. Seeing a lot of smaller fish with larger fish being caught near rocks and structure on main lake points. Report by Jacob Orr, Lake Texoma, Guaranteed Guide Service. Stripers are good with slabs in 10-30 feet of water. Very few catches on the surface with topwaters in 2-3 feet of water. The water is almost done turning. The midweek cold front should improve the bite for this weekend. Birds are showing the anglers the way to surfacing bait and actively feeding fish. Texas
Flew Too Close to The Sun Cherokee, Anderson and Houston County game wardens executed a search warrant after receiving information about an individual who admitted to a friend he had been shooting deer from the road and confessed to shooting a deer in the Davy Crocket National Forest from the roadway. The individual was also heard saying his “deer season never ends.” The Cherokee County Sheriff’s Department was asked to assist in the entry of the house because the suspected individual had previously been involved with shooting at police and fleeing. Upon entry of the suspects home, methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia were found along with poor living conditions. Inside the residence were two adult females, one adult male, and two juvenile females ages 9 and 16. Charges filed by the Cherokee County Sheriff’s Department included: possession of controlled substance and paraphernalia and endangering of a child – state jail felony. The male individual was also currently on parole at the time of the execution of the search warrant. Game wardens are investigating the poaching of deer.
Judge Cunningham Speaks To Kiwanis
By Mary-k Ashley Wilson
Dynamic speaker County
Judge Newt Cunningham spoke to Kiwanis on Artificial Intelligence. Like it or not, artificial intelligence is flourishing and here to stay. It can analyze and fantasize at the speed of light. It has infinite knowledge. It is quickly putting people out of jobs. It can't be stopped now. It is everywhere. Kiwanis had a good crowd in attendance but is still accepting memberships. If you would like to be a member of a civic group who serves
the children of the world and youth groups in Bonham and Fannin County, please call Mary-k Wilson at 903.821.4322. Kiwanis raises their money by managing the Bonham Trade Days, which is always held on the Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday following the first Monday of the month. Some vendor spaces are still available. If you want a vendor space, the Kiwanis office is located on the northeast side of the pavilion at Fort Inglish Park on Hwy. 56, and opens at 7:00 A.M. on Thursday fol-
lowing the first Monday. Checks with Texas Drivers License as identification accepted or cash. No credit cards.
For shoppers, the unusual and unique items can be found. There is also food available there.
Bonham Trade Days brings it all to one place with freshair shopping. You will not only be helping yourself by shopping at Bonham Trade Days but will be helping youth groups as well. We look forward to seeing you at Bonham Trade Days. Thank you.
The Fannin County Leader Deadline is Thursdays @ Noon
Community Food Pantry in Honey Grove
McKenzie United Methodist Church, 701 7th Street. 1st and 3rd Thursday each month. 5pm - 7pm.
4th Tuesday: Produce 1pm - 4pm Contacts: Star Breece - 281-832-8116 Soleil - 903-505-0250 God Bless You!
Manna
House Food Pantry
When: Tuesday 1pm - 5pm.
Where: 914 S. 5th St. Bonham (across from Calvary Baptist Church.) For more information: 903-583-3910
Fannin County Community Ministries
Food Pantry
Wednesday, Thursday & Friday
8:00am - 11:45am 1022 FM 273 BONHAM TX 75418
903-583-3663
Fannin County Family Crisis Center
903-583-7694
24 Hour Hotline
903-583-7000
History, noun :
a record of significant events (such as those affecting a nation or institution) often including an explanation of their causes.
“A generation which ignores history has no past and no future.” Robert Heinlein, American author
Biggerstaff Cemetery
Marker Text: The families of Oliver (1812-1872) and Mary (Livingston) Jaackson (181-1890) and George (1823-1906) and Didama (Jackson) Biggerstaff (1835-1902) moved here from Missouri and settled on adjoining farms in 1854. The Jacksons erected a schoolhouse on their property and this cemetery was established on the Biggerstaff farm. The first recorded burial here was that of Grant Clutter in 1864. The cemetery, which contains about 50 burials, served as the graveyard for the Jack and Biggerstaff families and their descendants. The last recorded burial was that of Russell McCormack in 1935.
Directions: From Dodd City, take FM 2077 south approx. 5.2 miles to RM 1550; then go .6 miles east on FM 1550.
Notice of a Public Hearing before the Commissioners Court
Notice is hereby given that the Commissioners Court of Fannin County, Texas will hold a public hearing on Tuesday, Dec 9, 2025, starting at 8:50am in the Fannin County Court House, 101 E Sam Rayburn Dr. Bonham, TX. The Commissioners Court will consider: (a) Plat Cancelation: Starfire Ranch 3750 E FM 1396, Ivanhoe TX 75447 PID#’s 128863, 128864, 128865, 128866, 128867, 128868 and 128869.
All interested citizens of the County are invited to attend and participate in the public hearing. Please check Fannin County’s website under Upcoming Meetings (www.co.fannin.tx.us) up to 72 Hours prior for more details. For additional info & official protest forms, contact Development Services at 903-449-4220. Any owners of effected property may file a written objection to the cancellation with the Court. All protests must appear in front of the Commissioners Court at the above stated time.
11/11/25
11/11/25
EMPLOYMENT
NOW HIRING! CDL drivers with recent driving experience and a clean driving record. Home daily. Driving radius within 3 hours of Fannin County, TX. Ability to use forklift, tarping and flatbed experience a plus, but will train the right driver. Please come in person to complete an application: 3765 County Road 2135, Telephone, TX 75488 or call 903-664-2332 ask for human resources.
For the City of Bonham, Texas
Policy of Non-discrimination on the Basis of Disability
HELP WANTED
Need Part-Time welder and Part-Time Landscape Helper. Call 903-814-8620
IMMEDIATE OPENINGS for the FOLLOWING POSITIONS
HVAC Technicians, Journeyman Electrician, and HVAC/Electric Apprentice and Helpers. Competitive wages based on experience, vacation and company paid insurance. For more information Call: 903-583-4018 or apply in person at Blain Service Company, 7258 N. Hwy 78 in Ravenna
The City of Bonham, Texas, does not discriminate on the basis of disability in the admission or access to, or employment in, its federally assisted programs or activities. The City of Bonham’s Civil Rights Officer has been designated to coordinate compliance with the nondiscrimination requirements contained in the Department of Housing and Urban Development’s (HUD) regulations implementing Section 504 (24 CFR Part 8).
The City of Bonham, Texas, has adopted grievance procedures to ensure prompt and fair resolution of complaints regarding its Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) programs, as per Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Title II mandates that “no otherwise qualified disabled individual shall, solely by reason hof such disability, be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of or be subjected to discrimination” in public entity-sponsored programs or activities.
To submit a complaint, individuals should complete the “ADA Complaint Form,” which can be obtained at the Bonham Hall (514 Chestnut Street, Bonham, TX 75418). Complaints should describe, as fully as possible, the facts and circumstances of the alleged discrimination. The City of Bonham will begin an investigation within fifteen (15) working days of receiving the complaint and respond in writing within thirty (30) working days.
The City of Bonham has adopted complaint and grievance procedures regarding its Community Development Block Grant Programs (CDBG). Citizens may obtain a copy of these written procedures at City Hall, 514 Chestnut Street, Bonham, TX 75418, during regular business hours. Citizens may also request the procedures be mailed to them by calling City Hall at 903-583-7555. These procedures outline the steps for a citizen to follow if they wish to file a complaint or grievance about CDBG activities.
A person who has a complaint or grievance about any services or activities with respect to the CDBG project may, during regular business hours, submit such complaint or grievance in writing to the City Secretary at 514 Chestnut Street, Bonham, TX 75418, or may call 903-583-7555. The City of Bonham will make every effort to respond fully to such complaints within fifteen (15) working days where practicable.
Equal Employment Opportunity Statement
The City of Bonham does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, or national origin.
Fair Housing Public Service Announcement
Public Service Announcement: Fair Housing, It’s the Law
To promote fair housing practices, the City of Bonham encourages potential homeowners and renters to be aware of their rights under the National Fair Housing Law.
Title VIII of the Civil Rights Acts of 1968, as amended, prohibits discrimination against any person on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, disability, familial status, or national origin in the sale or rental of units in the housing market. For more information on fair housing or to report possible fair housing discrimination, call the Texas Workforce Commission at (888) 452-4778 or (512) 463-2642. TTY: 512-371-7473.
Avisos – Derechos Civiles
Para la ciudad de Bonham, Texas
Política de no discriminación por motivos de discapacidadLa ciudad de Bonham, Texas, no discrimina por motivos de discapacidad en la admisión, el acceso o el empleo en sus programas o actividades con asistencia federal. El Oficial de Derechos Civiles de la Ciudad de Bonham ha sido designado para coordinar el cumplimiento de los requisitos de no discriminación contenidos en las regulaciones del Departamento de Vivienda y Desarrollo Urbano (HUD) que implementan la Sección 504 (24 CFR Parte 8). La ciudad de Bonham, Texas, ha adoptado procedimientos de quejas para garantizar una resolución pronta y justa de las quejas relacionadas con sus programas de Subvenciones en Bloque para el Desarrollo Comunitario (CDBG), según el Título II de la Ley de Estadounidenses con Discapacidades (ADA). El Título II ordena que “ninguna persona discapacitada calificada de otra manera, únicamente por razón de dicha discapacidad, será excluida de la participación, se le negarán los beneficios o será objeto de discriminación” en programas o actividades patrocinados por entidades públicas.
Para presentar una queja, las personas deben completar el “Formulario de queja de la ADA”, que se puede obtener en Bonham Hall (514 Chestnut Street, Bonham, TX 75418). Las quejas deben describir, de la manera más completa posible, los hechos y circunstancias de la supuesta discriminación. La Ciudad de Bonham comenzará una investigación dentro de los quince (15) días hábiles posteriores a la recepción de la queja y responderá por escrito dentro de los treinta (30) días hábiles.
Aviso de Participación Ciudadana y Procedimientos de QuejasLa Ciudad de Bonham ha adoptado procedimientos de quejas y reclamos con respecto a sus Programas de Subvenciones en Bloque para el Desarrollo Comunitario (CDBG). Los ciudadanos pueden obtener una copia de estos procedimientos escritos en el Ayuntamiento, 514 Chestnut Street, Bonham, TX 75418, durante el horario comercial habitual. Los ciudadanos también pueden solicitar que se les envíen los procedimientos por correo llamando al Ayuntamiento al 903-583-7555. Estos procedimientos describen los pasos que un ciudadano debe seguir si desea presentar una queja o reclamo sobre las actividades de CDBG.
Una persona que tenga una queja o reclamo sobre cualquier servicio o actividad con respecto al proyecto CDBG puede, durante el horario comercial habitual, presentar dicha queja o reclamo por escrito al Secretario de la ciudad en 514 Chestnut Street, Bonham, TX 75418, o puede llamar al 903-583-7555. La ciudad de Bonham hará todo lo posible para responder completamente a dichas quejas dentro de los quince (15) días hábiles cuando sea posible.
Declaración de Igualdad de Oportunidades en el EmpleoLa Ciudad de Bonham no discrimina por motivos de raza, color, religión, sexo, orientación sexual, identidad de género u origen nacional.
Anuncio de Servicio Público de Vivienda Justa
Anuncio de Servicio Público: Vivienda Justa, es la Ley
Para promover prácticas de vivienda justa, la Ciudad de Bonham alienta a los posibles propietarios e inquilinos a conocer sus derechos bajo la Ley Nacional de Vivienda Justa. El Título VIII de las Leyes de Derechos Civiles de 1968, según enmendada, prohíbe la discriminación contra cualquier persona por motivos de raza, color,
discapacidad, estado familiar u origen nacional en la venta
CNC Lathe/ Mill Machinist
POSITION OPENINGS
B.F. Gammon Tool & Die is accepting applications for immediate openings for CNC Lathe/Mill Machinist and also someone with Gear Cutting experience. 40 hours per week plus overtime. Full benefits including paid healthcare, retirement benefits and holiday, vacation and sick pay. Climate controlled shop. 7:30am4:00pm, 5 days per week. Send resume via email to brett@bfgammon.com or call 903-583-3597
FOR SALE
AUTHENTIC
HOMEMADE MEXICAN HOT TAMALES
Place orders from Thursday through Tuesday by text to: 903-449-1839 Point of pick up will be at Exxon Hwy 121 & Hwy 69. Saturday morning at 10:00 am $25.00 a dozen
GARAGE SALES
ITEMS FOR SALE CALL OR TEXT
903-227-0285 9AM-6PM Flat Screen TVs w/remotes $10 & $20, Panasonic AM/ FM CD PLayer/Recorder2 Giant Speakers, Crossley Radio AM/FM Dual Casette w/turntable, VHS to CD REcorder, VCR 4 Head, Posters & Banners - Jimi Hendrix, Judas Priest, Dale Earnhart, Marine Corp. Union Pacific Knick Knacks & Collectables. Books, CDs, Origamis, Beanie Babies, Candle Decor. Genuine Indian Motorcycle Jacket, Dallas Cowboys Jacket/Coat, 100 ft. HD Waterhose, Spreader, Aerator, Blower, Travel bag, T Shirts, Jeans. Too many items to list.
MULTI-FAMILY
GARAGE SALE
401a E Sam Rayburn Rd In Ector- North Side Of 56 Thurs - Saturday November 13th, 14th, and 15th. 8am-4pm Kids/Men/Women’s Clothing, Toys, Household Items, Etc.
MISCELLANEOUS
A PAW UP
Helping Animals In Need Thrift Store 101 West Hayes, Savoy Open Friday thru Sunday 10am-5pm.
FREE CLOTHES & HOUSEWARES:
Clothes ClosetValley Creek Baptist Church, 3615 FM 896, Leonard. Wednesdays 8-10am.
PROFESSIONAL SERVICES
CARPET & DUCT CLEANING 903-272-0902
Above & Beyond
https://aboveandbeyond cleaningrestoration.com
ALL PHASES OF REMODELING:
Painting, sheet rock, redesign closets, countertops, cabinets, roofing, foundation repair, concrete work, etc.
Call for a free estimate: 903-449-1865
FARM and LAWN
MAINTENANCE
Tree service, landscaping, brush clearing, fence of any kind, pipe fence painting, power washing, house painting, flagstone patios, gravel driveways, lot mowing, gutters and drainage, concrete demolition, any odd jobs. Call Jose Vazquez at 903-227-5898.
STAPP TREE TRIMMING and REMOVAL
Hauling, Storm Damage, Demolition Work, Dead Wood Removal, Licensed and Bonded. Over 25 Years Experience. Call 903-5837888. “Cheaper than the cheapest. Give me a call, I can handle it all, guaranteed.”
TREES and MÁS
Large Acreage Mowing with Tractor, Landscaping, Fences, Stump Grinding, and Concrete. RoofingMetal or Shingles, Indoor or Outdoor Remodeling & Repairs. House Painting. Insured, Call for free estimate. 903-227-6940, 903-227-8369 or 903-486-2868.
FLEX BASE 6 Yards Flex Base: $300 1-½” Crusher Run: $400 PeaGravel: $450 FREE Delivery in Fannin County! Also available: Mulch & other landscape materials. After hours and weekend deliveries available. Call for details! 469-585-9167
App House Leveling & Foundation repair Pier and Beam/ Slab Foundation/ Small & Large Remodels. 903-227-2860
PUBLIC AUCTIONS
NOTICE OF PUBLIC AUCTION SAT. DECEMBER 6 @ 11:00 am LAKE COUNTRY
Unit vs. Precinct: Texas Counties Weigh Road Management Systems
By Emily Rodriguez Zuniga, County Judge Intern
On October 22, 2025, the Texas Association of County Engineers (TACERA) hosted a panel discussion on county road management systems.
The session featured county engineers from the counties of Fort Bend, Kerr, Tarrant and Johnson, providing perspectives from both unit and precinct-based systems.
The panel also presented findings from a research survey conducted by TACERA (August, 2025) that included 27 Texas counties.
Survey Overview and System Types:
Of the 27 participating counties, 17 operate under a centralized unit system, while 10 use a precinct system. These systems are defined in Chapter 252 of Texas Transportation Code as follows:
A. Ex Officio Road Commissioner System
“Precinct”
B. Road Commissioner System
C. Road Superintendent System
D. County Road Department System “Unit Road System”
Survey Results and Key Findings:
The survey revealed clear preferences and perceived strengths among the respondents.
Personal Preference and Perceived Efficiency:
When asked for their personal preferred roadway maintenance system, 74% of respondents favored the centralized unit system, compared to 16% for the precinct system. Comments indicated that the optimal choice often "depends on politics, county road geography, and urban versus rural settings," with one suggestion for a "hybridized central planning system to help with precinct maintenance schedules."
This preference was also reflected in the perceived efficiency of the systems. A significant majority (76%) believed the centralized unit system is the most efficient for a county, while 18% felt both systems have their efficiencies, and only 6% selected the precinct system.
Risk of Political Bias:
Regarding which system presents a greater risk of favoritism or political bias, opinions were divided. Nearly half of the respondents (47%)
identified the precinct system as carrying more risk, while a very small percentage (3%) selected the centralized unit system. The remaining 50% believed both systems carry their own comparable risks.
Responsiveness to Citizens:
On an additional question regarding citizen responsiveness, the results were more balanced. 38% of the participants viewed the centralized unit system as most effective, 31% favored the precinct system and another 31% found both systems equally effective in addressing citizens’ needs.
Considerations for System
Transition:
The panel also discussed the challenges associated with transitioning between management systems.
Transitioning from a Unit to a Precinct System presents obstacles such as:
● Creating redundancy by splitting personnel and equipment.
● Developing a methodology to budget and allocate funds per precinct.
● Ensuring consistent best practices and maintenance standards across all county roads under separate precinct control.
Conversely, a transition from
Legal Notice Publication Information You Need To Know
In recent public comment it was questioned as to the access of public notices placed in The Fannin County Leader. Every Monday morning the current published notices are added to a nationwide website. The Column website is accessible to every entity that publishes or would be a potential bidder on public notices. The Fannin County Leader staff work very diligently to ensure every advertiser’s funds are wisely spent. We appreciate the opportunity to provide a local source for so many valued businesses in Fannin County and beyond. Use this QR Code or search www.texaspublicnotices.com at any time to access all public notices published in Texas, including The Fannin County notices.
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
Notice is hereby given that Original Letters Testamentary for the Estate of BETTY JO WILLIAMS deceased, were issued on the 4th day of November, 2025, in Cause No. PR-2025-13470, pending in the County Court at Law of Fannin County, Texas to DEANNA SUE ELVINGTON.
. The address of the Independent Executor is as follows: Ms. Deanna Sue Elvington P.O. Box 193 Ector, Texas 75439
The address of the attorney for the Independent Executor is as follows: Ms. Sharron L. Johnson Attorney at Law 305 S. Center Street Bonham, Texas 75418
All persons having claims against this Estate, which is currently being administered, are required to present them within the time and in the manner prescribed by law.
DATED THIS THE 4TH DAY OF NOVEMBER, 2025.
s/ Deanna Sue Elvington
DEANNA SUE ELVINGTON, Independent Executor of the Estate of BETTY JO WILLIAMS deceased
a Precinct to a Unit System raises concerns about:
● The political challenges of consolidating power.
● The need for a comprehensive asset management plan.
● Maintaining direct accountability to voters in each precinct.
● Managing the consolidation of equipment and personnel locations.
● Standardizing road maintenance methods across the county.
Conclusion: These survey results represent the critical approaches to addressing road maintenance and financial challenges within either a unit or precinct system. Ultimately, the adoption of either of these methods boil down to the individual needs of the county and resources available.
Fannin County Septic System Permits
Environmental Development
Diane Wilson 903-583-7495.
http://www.co.fannin.tx.us/page/ fannin.Environmental. Development
Public Notice - Fannindel ISD
Notice of Public Meeting to discuss the Fannindel ISD Financial Integrity Rating System of Texas (F.I.R.S.T.) report, on November 17, 2025 at 6:00 pm at the Fannindel ISD high school cafeteria, 601 W. Main Street, Ladonia, Texas 75449. You can locate this report at https://tealprod.tea.state. tx.us/First/forms/Main.aspx
903-583-2877
are currently looking for smiling faces who have a passion for working with children. Full-time and part-time positions available. Must be 18 or older and have a high school diploma. Apply in person.
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
11/11/25
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF BONHAM, TEXAS
AMENDING ARTICLE 16 (NONCONFORMING USES), EXHIBIT 14A (ZONING ORDINANCE) WITHIN THE BONHAM CODE OF ORDINANCES (CASE2025-007); PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE; PROVIDING FOR A PENALTY CLAUSE; AND, PROVIDING FOR THE PUBLICATION OF THE CAPTION HEREOF.
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF BONHAM, TEXAS AMENDING EXHIBIT 14A (ZONING ORDINANCE) WITHIN THE BONHAM CODE OF ORDINANCES IN ORDER TO CREATE A NEW NONRESIDENTIAL ZONING DISTRICT, CORRIDOR COMMERCIAL DISTRICT (CC), AND ASSOCIATED AREA, SETBACK, AND HEIGHT REGULATIONS (CASE2025-008); PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE; PROVIDING FOR A PENALTY CLAUSE; AND, PROVIDING FOR THE PUBLICATION OF THE CAPTION HEREOF.
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF BONHAM, TEXAS AMENDING THE CITY’S ZONING MAP AND ZONING ORDINANCE AND CHANGING THE ZONING OF MULTIPLE PROPERTIES FRONTING AND WITHIN CLOSE
PROXIMITY TO STATE HIGHWAY 121, GENERALLY LOCATED BETWEEN E. SAM RAYBURN DRIVE (STATE HIGHWAY 121) AND U.S. HIGHWAY 82 (CASE2025-009); PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE; PROVIDING FOR A PENALTY CLAUSE; AND, PROVIDING FOR THE PUBLICATION OF THE CAPTION HEREOF.
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF BONHAM, TEXAS
AMENDING THE CITY’S ZONING MAP AND ZONING ORDINANCE AND CHANGING THE ZONING OF MULTIPLE PROPERTIES FRONTING AND WITHIN CLOSE
PROXIMITY TO W. SAM RAYBURN DRIVE (STATE HIGHWAY 56), GENERALLY LOCATED WEST OF WILLOW STREET TO THE INTERSECTION OF OLD ECTOR ROAD AND STATE HIGHWAY 121 (CASE2025-010); PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE; PROVIDING FOR A PENALTY CLAUSE; AND, PROVIDING FOR THE PUBLICATION OF THE CAPTION HEREOF.
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF BONHAM, TEXAS
AMENDING THE CITY’S ZONING MAP AND ZONING ORDINANCE AND CHANGING THE ZONING OF MULTIPLE PROPERTIES FRONTING AND WITHIN CLOSE
PROXIMITY TO E. SAM RAYBURN DRIVE (STATE HIGHWAY 56), GENERALLY LOCATED EAST OF CHESTNUT STREET TO THE EASTERN CITY LIMITS (CASE2025-011); PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE; PROVIDING FOR A PENALTY CLAUSE; AND, PROVIDING FOR THE PUBLICATION OF THE CAPTION HEREOF.
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF BONHAM, TEXAS
AMENDING GUEST HOUSE REQUIREMENTS UNDER APPENDIX 1 (SCHEDULE OF USES) AND DEFINITIONS UNDER APPENDIX 2 (DEFINITIONS ASSOCIATED WITH SCHEDULE OF USES) WITHIN EXHIBIT 14A (ZONING ORDINANCE) OF THE BONHAM CODE OF ORDINANCES (CASE2025-012); PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE; PROVIDING FOR A PENALTY CLAUSE; AND, PROVIDING FOR THE PUBLICATION OF THE CAPTION HEREOF.
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF BONHAM, TEXAS
AMENDING THE CITY’S ZONING MAP AND ZONING ORDINANCE AND CHANGING THE ZONING OF CERTAIN PROPERTY LOCATED AT THE TERMINUS OF S. VILLAGE DRIVE, 190± FEET SOUTH OF W. RUSSELL AVENUE FROM PLANNED DEVELOPMENT DUPLEX RESIDENTIAL DWELLING DISTRICT (PD-D) TO PLANNED DEVELOPMENT SINGLE-FAMILY RESIDENTIAL DWELLING DISTRICT (PD-R) WITH MODIFIED DEVELOPMENT STANDARDS (CASE2025-013); PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE; PROVIDING FOR A PENALTY CLAUSE; AND, PROVIDING FOR THE PUBLICATION OF THE CAPTION HEREOF. The City Council of the City of Bonham, Texas will consider approval or rejection of the ordinances represented by the captions printed above on first and final reading following a public hearing on the ordinances. Public hearing will be at a meeting of the City Council on Monday, December 1, 2025 at 5:30 p.m. in the Bonham City Hall, 514 Chestnut. Heather Stockton, City Secretary
Rich Hilliard
By Rich Hilliard
Whether Bonham will stay in
Class 4A for athletics or return to 3A in the 2026 University Interscholatic League realignment will again depend on the new minimums and maximums for each.
Bonham submitted a 559 average daily membership (ADM) on Oct 31 for
Snapshot Day -- the first of the three-part process in the UIL's biennial classification and district regrouping for the various sports. The submission equated only one less than 2023's 560 submission by Bonham for the 2024 realignment, which then required having at least a 545 to be in 4A and 545–956 to be in 4A Division II for football.
3A Division II for football.
New minimums and maximums for each of the six UIL classifications will be released later in 2025.
Bonham returned to 4A for the 2024 fall semester, having previously been in 3A since the 2018 fall semester.
When competing in team sports during the current alignment, only Pilot Point (461), which Bonham plays
Leonard secures first volleyball playoffs win
By Rich Hilliard
in girls' and boys' soccer, submitted a smaller ADM in 2024.
Meanwhile, Leonard, which narrowly remained in 3A in the 2024 realignment, should comfortably stay there this time. Leonard submitted a 283 on Oct. 31, compared to 2024's 255 -- when the 3A minimum equated a 254 overall and 254–368 to be in
Elsehwhere, Fannin County's 2A and 1A schools ether had minimal increases or none in its submissions on Oct 31: 2A Honey Grove, 2026 (228)/2024 (221); 2A Trenton, 2026/2024 (203); 2A Sam Rayburn, 2026 (146)/2024 (143); 1A Dodd City, 2026/2024 (94); 1A Savoy, 2026 (80)/2024 (73); 1A Ector, 2026 (76)/2024 (73). Previous 2A and 1A minimum and maximum requirements and likewise for Division I and II for football playing schools in 2024 included these.: 2A 105–253 (D1 (181.5 – 253)/D2 (105 –181.4); 1A
By Rich Hilliard
2025 Fannin County Football Standings
Members of the Purple Warriors huddle before concluding practice on Aug. 6 during Day 3 of Fall Camp for Bonham in preparation for the 2025 regular season.
Photo by Rich Hilliard
Members of Bonham's Lady Warriors listen to head coach Madison Norman on Feb. 5 during home District 11-4A girls' soccer at Warrior Stadium.
Photo by Rich Hilliard
Photo by Rich Hilliard
Ector head volleyball coach Dene' Adams during District 21-1A play last month completes a huddle with the Lady Eagles who on Nov. 1 secured their first postseason volleyball match win in school history. Photo by Rich Hilliard
dollars for CASA with Fishing and Golf Classic
Press Release - TXB, a family of customerservice-oriented convenience stores and quick food operations, recently hosted their 29th Annual Fishing and Golf Classic,
raising nearly $200,000 for CASA, the highest amount the event has raised for the child advocacy nonprofit since its beginning.
The tournament, hosted in Lake Texoma in North Texas, added to TXB’s already generous $1,000,000 donation in support of CASA.
TXB holds the sentiment, ‘Leave ‘Em Better, to support and serve local communities across Texas through nonprofit fundraising and volunteering. Their annual Fishing and Golf Classic is one of the many ways TXB serves the causes that matter to them most. The surpassing of over $1,000,000 donated to CASA marks a deeply significant milestone for the brand.
Executive Director of Fannin County Children's Center, Stephanie Garcia accepts donation check. Courtesy photo
