Jim Rhamey

"James Rhamey died peacefully at his home in Murchison, TX on July 20th, just short of his 92nd birthday. He would have found this annoying because he loved to get presents and eat cake."

Click here to view Jim's obituary.

Wanda Prokop

Wanda Prokop passed away August 10, 2023.  She had been living in a nursing home since her stroke several years ago. After her big sister Vona Nason moved to the Mabank Nursing Center, Wanda joined her at the center and moved into a room across the hall.  Frequent players at the Gun Barrel City club, they were known as "the sisters".  They usually played as partners, but both of them would play with anyone who needed a partner if they were available. 

Click here to view Wanda's obituary.

Beverly Battle

Beverly passed away peacefully on July 25, 2023, after a brief illness. She always had a ready smile and twinkle in her eye.  She played at the club in Canton with her partner Jo Booth. For many years, she played at the club in Gun Barrel City with Marion Davis, Neva Davis' husband.  Beverly achieved Life Master status in 2016. 

Click here to view Beverly's obituary.

Jan Jenkins

Jan JenkIns, 80, passed from this life on July3, 2023. After retirement Jan along with his wife, Sandy, took bridge lessons from both Linda Harrison and Mike Graham. When possible, Jan and Sandy enjoyed playing duplicate bridge at the Pittsburg DBC. They made a great pair learning and playing together as they complimented each other’s play.  

Jan was always so courteous, helpful, generous and humble. He was very special and a bright spot with his upbeat, lowkey personality. Jan was a veteran of the U.S. Navy and we are thankful for his military service. He will be dearly missed by all his bridge friends in East Texas.

NELL VELVIN

Nell passed away on Thursday June 29, 2023. Nell played duplicate for many years and attained the rank of Gold Life Master.  Even though she was an excellent bridge player, her main love was gardening.  She commented once to Jean Roach that her favorite place to be was in the garden with her hands in the dirt.  Some of her duplicate partners over the years were Judy Adams, Lela Mae Corley, Ginger Rhamey and Karen Owen.  

From Karen Owen:

In the old days, I played a lot with Nell! She was instrumental in helping me get my life master like going with me to tournaments. She preferred playing with Judy Adams in our local games. As you probably know, they were both from Kaufman and got their life masters playing together!!!

By old days, I am referring to times between 2005 and 2009-when I started playing duplicate bridge  in Athens and when I got my life master. I remember one very special STAC game week where Nell and I played together and got 22 silver points in 2 different games. Boy that really encouraged me! 

Well, she was a very special lady and I will miss her! 

Mary Helen Lawrence

Mary Helen Lawrence of Quitman passed away Saturday April 29, 2023 after a long illness.  She played at the Tuesday Canton game for years.  Her partners were Anita McKinney and Evelyn Schmidt among others.