Westside Obituaries
Page "S"

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Antonio Salguetro, 86
Died - August 23, 2001

Funeral services will be held at a later date in Puerto Rico for Bakersfield resident Antonio Salguetro. Antonio passed away on August 23, 2001 in a Bakersfield hospital at the age of 86. All funeral arrangements are under the direction of West Side Family Mortuary.
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James A. Salyards, 76
January 15, 1920 - July 12, 1996

Graveside services were conducted by Peters Funeral Home Saturday, July 13,1996 at the Shafter Memoiral Park for Taft resident James Albert Salyards, 76.

Mr. Salyards was born on January 15, 1920 in Keota, Oklahoma to Francis Lee and Doshie Leon (Pendergrass) Salyards and passed away July 12, 1996 in Bakersfield. He was raised and educated in Keota and was married in Bellers Mountain, Oklahoma, on August 29, 1942 to Pauline Buckner. He had resided in Kern County for the past 54 years. Mr Salyards spent most of his adult life farming. He also drove a "cat" and leveled land all over the Buttonwillow desert. He was a devoted family man who loved his family.

He was preceded in death by a sister, Betty Ruth Atckinson. He leaves behind to honor his memory his beloved wife of 54 years, Pauline Salyards of Taft; three sons and their wives, James and June Salyards of Lake City, Colorado, Norman and Joann Salyards of Piggott, Arkansas, and and Johnny Salyards of Taft; two daughters and their husbands, Sandra and Steve Bottoms and Juanita Williams, all of Bakersfield, and Rhonda Salyards of Taft; a brother, William "Bill" Hollis Salyards of Wasco; four sisters, Hazel Gipson of Eugene, Oregon, Enda Coble of Shafter, Beachie Jewel Taylor and her husband, Joe, of Stigler, Oklahoma, and Helen Wheeler of Fellows; 15 grandchildren; six great grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews.
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Billy Gearld Sampley, Sr.
November 3, 1934 - February 6, 2012

A graveside funeral service wil be held on Friday, February 10, 2012 at 3:00 p.m. in the West Side District Cemetery for Billy Gearld Sampley, Sr., 77. Rev. Tom White, pastor of Cuyama Assembly of God, will offiiciate at the service.

Mr. Sampley was born at home on November 3, 1934 in Grayback, Texas and passed away at San Joaquin Community Hospital in Bakersfield on February 6, 2012. He was raised in Kadane Corner, Texas and worked in the oilfields in Texas until 1968 when he moved to Taft, California where he went to work for General Production until he retired. He loved traveling and enjoyed trips to Laughlin and Pismo Beach. He looked forward to his trip to Texas every year. He especially loved to be with his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Edgar Monroe Sampley and Jettie Estelle Sampley; his brothers, Wayne Sampley of Oklahoma and Jack Sampley of Oregon; sister, Mary Clark of Wichita Falls, Texas; brothers Charles Sampley of Royce City, Texas, and Dale Sampley of Iowa Park, Texas; sister Charlene Capehart of Taft; brother, Lehman Sampley of Taft; and granddaughter, Kayron Jones of Maricopa. Mr. Sampley is survived by his brother and his wife, Glen and Rita Sampley of Iowa Park, Texas; his wife of 58 years, Florris Sampley of Maricopa; his daughter and her husband, Vivian and Larry Beatrez; his son, Billy Sampley, Jr. of Maricopa; his grandchildren, Nicole Pierce and her husband, Bobby of Brentwood, California, April Patton and her husband, Jake of Bakersfield, Matthew Sampley of Maricopa; his great grandchildren Cierra Pierce, Ryan Pierce and Payton Pierce all of Brentwood and Calyssa Sproul and Jackson Patton of Bakersfield; brothers and sister-in-law, Billy and Gay Rodgers of Gordonville, Texas, Bo and Lupe Camp of Groveton, Texas and Malcolm Camp of Idaho; and many nieces and nephews and great-nieces and great-nephews.

To convey condolences or sign an online registry, please visit www.EricksonAndBrown.com
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Lavelle Sampley, 77
February 14, 1920 - June 1, 1977

Funeral services will be held in the First Baptist Church on North Street Tuesday at 10:00 a.m. for long-time Taft resident Lavelle Sampley, 77.

Mrs. Sampley was born in Weatherford, Texas, on February 14, 1920 and passed away in a Bakersfield hospital on June 1 1997. She moved to Taft in 1942 and had been a very active member of the First Baptist Church for many years. She had been employed as a bookkeeper for over 30 years and had been employed at McMahan's and Oilfield Controls. She was a member of the Taft Rebekah Lodge #343 and the Order of the Eastern Star.

Her survivors include her husband, N.L. "Lee" Sampley of Taft; her daughter, Jerry Blankenship of Bakersfield; her sons and their wives, Gene and Charlene Sampley of Silverdale, Washington and Michael and DeAnn Sampley of Bakersfield; her daughter and her husband, Vickie and Donnie Thruman of Tulare; 11 grandchildren; and 12 great grandchildren.

Lavelle Sampley was a woman of compassion, prayer and commitment to God's purpose in her life, especially to those in her family. Lavelle was a strength, joy and inspiration to all that knew her. Her loving spirit and sense of humor will forever be etched in our minds. Her unconditional love and hospitality exemplified the Jesus she loved so much and so faithfully served. We are thankful for the joy she has brought us and we look forward to joining her in our eternal home.

In lieu of flowers, the family rrequests donations be made to "Children to Love," P.O. Box 9575, Bakersfield, California 93389. Friends may call at the Erickson & Brown Funeral Home Monday until 8:30 p.m. to pay their respects.
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Narvin Lehman "Lee" Sampley
August 12, 1917 - January 11, 2007

Narvin Lehman (N.L. or Lee) Sampley went home to be with the Lord and his loving wife on January 11, 2007. Graveside services will be held at the West Side District Cemetery in Taft at 11:00 a.m. Tuesday, January 16, 2007.

Lee Sampley was born to Edger and Minnie Sampley August 12, 1917 in Oklahoma. Lee met his bride, Frances Lavelle King in Vernon, Texas where they fell in love and married in 1939 until Lavelle's departure from this life in 1997. He and Lavelle located in Taft where they made their home since 1942. Lee worked as a welder for Standard Oil Company for 25 years, after which he began his own contract welding business in the oil fields of Taft until his ultimate retirement.

He had many friends, many of which preceded him in death. Lee was active in the Taft Odd Fellows and Masonic Lodges. Lee was preceded in death by his wife Lavelle, his mother and father, his stepmother, Jetty, brothers Jack, Dale and Charles, sisters Mary and Charlene. He is survived by his daughter Jerry Blankenship (Bakersfield), daughter and son-in-law Vickie and Donnie Thruman (Tulare), and sons and daughters-in-law Gene and Charlene (Silverdale, Washington) and Mike and DeAnn (Bakersfield), 11 grandchildren, and 18 great grandchildren, and 3 great-great-grandchildren.

The family would like to acknowledge the wonderful care given to Lee prior to his death by Hallmark Assisted Living and Hoffmann Hospice in Bakersfield. Anyone wishing to make a donation in lieu flowers is requested to donate to either the Alzheimer Foundation or Hoffmann Hospice, 5300 California Ave., Bakersfield, California 93309. Erickson & Brown Funeral Home.
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Anna Sanders
May 7, 1941 - May 14, 2003

Services are pending at the West Side Family Mortuary for Anna Sanders, 62 who passed away in Bakersfield on May 14, 2003.
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Geraldine Sanders
April 1, 1925 - November 24, 2006

Geraldine Sanders passed away November 24, 2006 in an extended care center in Coalinga that had been her residence for the past nine years.

Geri entered this world onApril 1, 1925 in Los Angeles, the 5th of six children of Curtis and Ethel VanScyoc. Geri spent her childhood in the Los Angeles area and Taft. She married Raymond J. Sanders on November 4, 1942. They started a family and following WWII lived mostly in Taft with her four children until the 1960s moving to Granda Hills. Geri enjoyed gardening, sewing, and cooking. Raymond and Geri enjoyed traveling California, Nevada and Baja California until her husband of 55 years, Raymond and sons, James and Bruce.

She is survived by two daughters, Terry and Lori and their spouses, 11 grandchildren, 15 great grandchildren and four great-great grandchildren.

Private family services will be held in the West Side District Cemetery on Friday, December 1, 2006. The Erickson & Brown Funeral Home is assisting the family with the arrangements.
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Raymond J. Sanders, 79
July 14, 1918 - October 2, 1997

Graveside funeral services will be held in the West Side District Cemetery on Monday afternoon at 2:00 p.m. for former Taft resident Raymond J. Sanders, 79. Rev. Scott Peason, pastor of the First Baptist Church will officiate at the services.

Mr. Sanders was born in Gordon, Nebraska on July 14, 1918 and passed away in San Luis Obispo on October 2, 1997. He moved with his family to Taft when she is seven years old. He graduated from Taft Union High School in 1936 and from Taft College in in 1938. Mr. Sanders joined the Army in 1940 and attended Officers Canidate School in 1942. He married the former, Geraldine VanScyoc on November 4, 1942. He was later assigned to the 82nd Airborne Division as a lietentant. He jumped with his division at Normandy during the invasion. He later served on Eisenhower's personal body guard staff.

After returning home he commanded the Taft National Guard and retired form the National Guard in 1957. He moved from Taft to the Los Angeles area in1961 and and worked as a general contractor. While in the Los Angeles area he managed several youth baseball teams. Mr. Sanders retired in 1986 and moved to Desert Hot Springs. He enjoyed all sports and remained active until a short time ago.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Arthur and Della Sanders; his brother Jack, Carl and Glenn Sanders. Survivors include his wife, Geraldine Sanders of Coalinga; his sister Helen Bates of Walnut Creek; his children Terry Robertson and her husband Jerry of Grover Beach, Vance Sanders of Desert Hot Springs, Bruce Sanders and his wife, Stephanie of Grover Beach and Lori Ventress of Lake Forest; his nephew, Hoyt Sanders and his wife, Virginia, of South Gate; his 12 grandchildren and nine great grandchildren.

The family has suggested that in lieu of flowers, donations maybe made in Mr. Sanders' memory to a local youth sports organization. Friends may call at the Erickson and Brown Funeral Home on Sunday from 4:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. and again on Monday from 8:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. to pay their respects.
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Ruth A. Sanders, 68
October 10, 1927 - September 5, 1996

Private family services were held this morning for Taft resident Ruth A. Sanders, 68. Inurnment followed at Union Cemetery in Bakersfield.

Mrs. Sanders was born October 10, 1927 in New Mexico and passed away at her home September 5, 1996. She spent her early years and received her education in New Mexico. Following her marriage to Bill Sanders they moved to Brawley and then to Armstrong, Oklahoma, where they made their home until recently moving to Taft.

She is survived by her husband, Bill Sanders of Taft; three children and their spouses, Betty and Charles Pittman of Taft, Ruth and Lynn Trauntham of Armstrong, and John and Linda Sanders of Brawley; three sister, Edna of Brawley, Betty and Bell, both of New Mexico; 11 grandchildren; and numerous great grandchildren, nieces, nephews and friends.

The services were entrusted to the care of the Bonewell Family of the Taft Funeral Home, a Golden Rule Funeral Service.
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Virgil Herman Sanders
April 1927 - June 21, 2007

Virgil Sanders, 80, of Templeton passed away Thursday, June 21, 2007. Virgil was born in Plainview, Texas, one of eight children. He worked as a cowboy and was an accompllished horseman. He married his wife, Fern, in 1944 just before his overseas service in WWII. Upon returning from the war, Virgil worked as a mechanic for the Standard Oil Company/Chevorn in Taft, California for 37 years. He and Fern raised three children then retired to the Central Coast on 1984. He was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather, brother and uncle and will be missed tremendously. His kindess, humor, wit, and generosity were an inspiration to all who knew him.

He was preceded in death by his mother and father, three brothers and three sisters. Virgil is survived by his wife of 63 years, Fern; sister Bobbie Jones; his son Darrel Sanders and his wife Kathy; his daughters Catherine Kingsbury, and Becky Bouch and her husband W.A.; grandchildren Darran Sanders and his wife Coral and their children Sydney and Autumn; Josh Sanders and his wife Johanna and their children Marina and Justin. Davy Kingsbury and Zoe Kingsbury; step-grandchildren Jean Reynoso and Will Bouch and their families; nephew Sonny Sanders and his wife Roxanne and their family; and many other nieces and nephews. A private family memorial will be held.
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Jesse Matthew "Squeaky" Sandoval
June 3, 1976 - September 3, 2010

Jesse Matthew "Squeaky" Sandoval, 34, was reunited with his loved ones on September 3, 2010. He was born in Tulare on June 3, 1976 and resided in Taft for 29 years.

He is survived by his parents, Jesse and Lucy Sandoval; his son and two daughters, Jesse, Ripley and Charity; his brother-in-law, Corey Shugart; brother and sister-in-law, Michael and Carla Sandoval; his sister, Alexzandra Sandoval; grandparents, Enedina Sauceda and Chris Sandoval; nephews, Corey, Ravin and Gage; nieces, Crimson, Regan, Natalie, Isabell and many cousins, aunts and uncles. He was preceded in death by two older sisters, Lupe Jay and Christine Marie Sandoval; his niece Kylee Artz and grandparents Jesse Sauceda and Francis Sandoval.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, September 11, 2010 at 2:00 p.m. in the Erickson & Brown Funeral Home Chapel, 501 Lucard Street, Taft. A private graveside service will be conducted at a future date. The Sandoval Family would like to thank all of the family and friends for their prayers and support. There are no visitation hours scheduled and the arrangements are under the direction of the Erickson & Brown Funeral Home. www.EricksonAndBrown.com
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Earl Sane
October 7, 1917 - December 29, 1996

Graveside funeral services will be held in the West Side District Cemetery on Friday at 2:30 p.m. for Taft resident Earl Sane. Services will be under the auspices of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Taft Ward.

Mr. Sane had lived in Taft for the past 45 years and passed away here on December 29, 1996. He was employed as an auto body repairman at Darrell's Body Shop for many years.

He was preceded in death by his first wife, Mildred Sane, Ray Sane of Moultry, Georgia and Don Sane of Callahan, Florida and several nieces and nephews including Pat and James Mulkey of Maricopa.

There are no visitation hours scheduled and the services are under the direction of the Erickson & Brown Funeral Home.
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Mary Lee Williams Sane
November 26, 1927 - October 13, 2003

Mary Lee Williams Sane passed away in the Shafter Convalescent Hospital, Shafter, California, October 13. She was born in Columbia County, Lake City, Florida on November26, 1927, and attended elementary juniorand high school in the city.

Mary married James Howard Meredith in 1947. Two daughters were born to them: LaKeitha (1948) and Carla Lynn (1962). The Merediths moved in Taft, California, in 1961. In subsequent years they divorced; Mary later married Earl Sane, who passed away in 1996. Mary remained in Taft until 2000 and worked as an LVN (Licensed Vocational Nurse) at the Westside Hospital for 30 years, after which she moved to Bakersfield and lived with her daughter LaKeitha Darquea for a year and a half before being admitted to a convalescent home. After spending a month in Health Care South, she was admitted to Shafter Convalescent Hosptial, where she remained until her death a year later.

Mary was preceded in death by her father, William Abraham Williams, and her mother, Eva Estell Robinson Williams. She is survived by a brother, W.C. Williams of Waverly, Florida; a sister, Martha Lee Nickoloff of Postland, Oregon; two daughters, LaKeitha Darquea of Bakersfield, California; and Carla Lynn Meredith; grandchildren, Stephanie Nicole Abney, Monique Darquea Plante and Joshua David Darques.

Burial is under the auspices of Erickson & Brown Funeral Home in Taft. A graveside service was held at Westside Cemetery on Friday. October 17th, at 2:00 p.m. under the direction of Bishop Harold W. Peace of The Church Of Jesus Christ of Latter day Saints.
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Richard G. "Dick" Sanford
January 21, 1922 - May 3, 2003

Mass of Christian Burial will be held Wednesday, May 7th at 10:00 a.m. at St. Philip the Apostle Catholic Church, 7100 Stockdale Highway, for Richard G. "Dick" Sanford. Father Doug Walker will officiate and burial will follow in Greenlawn Southwest Cemetery, 2739 Panama Lane, Bakersfield, California.

Richard was born on January 21, 1922 in Fort Collins, Colorado to Joe and Jeanette (Riddle) Sanford. He passed away at his home, with his family at his side, May 3, 2003. In 1933, Dad's family moved west, settling in Maricopa, California. He graduated from Maricopa High School 1940 and Taft College in 1942. He served in the U.S. Army/Air Force from 1942 - 1946 where he was a Link Trainer Instructor, stationed at Gardner Field. After his military service, he went to work for Standard Oil Company as a draftsmen, working at Elk Hills. He retired from Standard Oil in 1981. Dad loved to barbecue and cooked many a "going away-retirement" party for fellow Elk Hills employees. Dad and Mom traveled extensively over the years, both home and abroad. Traveling in everything from motor coach to fifth-wheel. They criss-crossed the country visiting and sightseeing. They were especially proud of their overseas trips to China and Russia.

Dad was a loving husband, father and granddad. Though the last few weeks were difficult for him, he remained courageous throughout and was always a consummate gentleman. Richard is survived by his wife Helen; son Richard and wife Darlene; daughter Gail Johnson and husband Rick; grandchildren Scott Hacker and wife Angela, Christine Sanford, Dean and Wade Johnson; great grandchildren Alyssa and Madison Hacker; brother Gordon and wife Freda, all of Bakersfield; sister Joan Garrity of Tucson, Arizona; brothers-in-law Lloyd and Lois McCravey, Jean Morgan, Doris Lewis, all of Bakersfield, Dr. Janet Sanford of Laguna Hills, California, John and Louise McConnell of Santa Cruz, California, Nova Brucks of Decatur, Michigan and Frey of Bradford, Pennsylvania; as well as many nieces and nephews.

Pallbearers will be Rick and Dean Johnson, Scott Hacker, Christine Sanford, Lloyd McCravey and Mark Garitty. Honorary pallbearers will be Gordon Sanford, John McConnell and Toby Sears.

The family would like to thank the wonderful staff at Hoffman Hospice for the care and compassion given to Dad. Also a special thanks to Margaret and Ameka of Alternative Care for being there with Dad. No visitation is scheduled. Greenlawn Southwest Mortuary Funeral Directors.
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Charlie E> Sansome Jr., 86
March 14, 1910 - May 10, 1996

Cryptside funeral services will be held in the West Side District Cemetery Mausoleum Thursday at 2:00 p.m. for former Taft resident Charlie E. Sansome Jr., 86.

Mr. Sansome was born in Coalinga on March 13, 1910 and passed away May 10, 1996 at his Nipomo Home. He and his family moved to Taft in 1913 where he was raised and educated. He married his wife, Clara Bell VanNostrand, in 1938 in Taft. Mr. Sansome had been employed as a carpenter by Standard Oil Company for over 25 years and was a volunteer with the Taft City Fire Department. After retirement Mr. Sansome made his home in Nipomo. He enjoyed camping, fishing, cooking and spending time with his family.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Clara Bell Sansome, in 1968. Survivors include a daughter, Darlene Sansom; a sister, Treva Newton; his grandchildren and their spouses, Debra and Gary Weaver, and Delores and Chuck Jasper; his great grandchildren, Shawna Weaver, Brandy Weaver, Dawna Moore and her husband, Scott, Billy Jaster and Elizabeth Jaster; his great-great grandchildren, Kristena Weaver and Bailey Moore.

Friends may call at the Erickson & Brown Funeral Home Thursday from 8:30 a.m. until 1:00 p.m to pay their respects.
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Clifford George Sargent
January 14, 1928 - March 28, 2012

Cliff was born, raised and died in Bakersfield, California. He graduated from K.C.U.H.S. in 1946, later joined the Air force as a RADAR Technician during the Korean War. At the end of his tour he worked for Standard Oil in Taft where he met and married Barbara Clemo. The opened a Chicken Delight Franchise in Bakersfield in the 60's then partnered a second one with his brother, Mike Sargent, Cliff was an avid golfer. After Barbara's death he married Margerie Rogers and they enjoyed years of fishing and gambling together.

Cliff was preceded in death by his parents, George and Verda Sargent, wife Barbara, great nephew Jeff Chaffin, brother-in-law Larry Chaffin. He is survived by his wife Margerie Sargent, step-children Melanie (Shawn), and Ian (Katie) Sutton, Cody (Lauren) Anderson. Step-grandchildren, Paige, Hayden, Rue, Nick and Gabriel. Brother Mike (Ada) Sargent sister Pat Chaffin. Nephews Mark (Lezlie), Steven (Rhonda), Douglas (Connie) Chaffin. Nieces Karen (John) Loucks, Shawna (Joe) Silva and great nieces and nephews.

A memorial will be held at the home of Steven and Ronda Chaffin, 1807 Spanke, 93312, on Wednesday, April 4th at 4:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, donations to the Bakersfield Rescue Mission (816 21st St. Bakersfield, California 93305) would be appreciated.
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Bonnie Grace Satterfield, 87
April 18, 1914 - May 17, 2001

Graveside funeral services will be held in the West Side District Cemetery on Monday, May 21, 2001 at 11:00 a.m. for longtime Taft resident, Bonnie Grace Satterfield. Rev. Sam White, pastor of the Cuyama Assembly of God, will officiate.

Mrs. Satterfield was born in Braggs, Oklahoma on April 18, 1914 and passed away in Mercy Westside Hospital on May 17, 2001 after a lengthy illness. She had lived in Taft for the last 56 years.

Her survivors include her husband of 85 years, Leo Satterfield; Leo Satterfield; her son and his wife, Danny and Marjorie; sister, Katheryn Rotramel; her four grandchildren, Karen San Juan of Stockton, Lee Ann Murguia of Taft, Lisa Upchurch of Fontana and Jill Braunstein of Las Vegas, Nevada her 14 great grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.

There are no visitation hours scheduled and the services are under the direction of the Erickson & Brown Funeral Home.
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Marjorie Ann Satterfield
April 15, 1938 - October 9, 2012

Marjorie Ann Satterfield, born in Bakersfield, California, passed away Friday, October 9 at home, at the age of 74.

Graveside services will be held Saturday, November 17, 2012 at 11:00 a.m. the Westside District Cemetery, Taft, California, LeeAnn Murguia of Taft, California and Lisa Upchurch of Woodlake, California, 15 grandchildren and 7 great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband Danny of 46 years in 2005.

Marjorie moved to Taft, California, with her parents as a young girl where she attended school and graduated from high school. Marjorie married her High School Sweetheart. She moved to Santa Maria in 1996 in support of her extended family, to lead through good and rough times. She was a loving daughter, sister, wife, mother, and grandmother. Her great smile and laughter will be truly missed. Marjorie loved helping and being amongst friends, along with watching her grandchildren grow in their lives. Marjorie was a member of Pacific Christian Church of Santa Maria, California and a member of Desert Hills Baptist Church of Las Vegas, Nevada.

Arrangements are under the direction of Dudley-Hoffman Mortuary, Crematory and Memory Garden.
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Andrea Saylor
March 22, 1949 - April 22, 2002

Graveside memorial services will be held in the Westside District Cemetery on Monday April 29, 2002 at 10:00 a.m. for former Taft resident Andrea Saylor, 53.

Mrs. Saylor was born in Taft March 22, 1949 and passed away in Nevada on April 22, 2002. Mrs. Saylor was a special education teacher at Brown Middle School and a 11 year resident of Henderson. She is survived by her husband, Dean of Henderson, Nevada. Daughters Alexis Sailor of Henderson, Nevada; her son Josh Sailor of Mesopotamia, Ohio; her father and step-mother Kenneth and Caroline Casparis of Lompoc; her sister, Chris Landrum and Karen Smith both of Mesopotamia, Ohio; and her six grandchildren.

There are no visitation hours scheduled and the arrangements are under the directions of Erickson and Brown Funeral Home.
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Betty Jean Scalf
February 20, 1928 - June 24, 2001

Loving, sweet, funny, kind, sensitive, strong and what beautiful eyes, that was Betty. Betty Jean (Morris) Scalf was born in Oklahoma on February 20, 1928 and went to be with the Lord on June 24, 2001.

Betty's greatest love was her family and taking care of them was the most important "job" of her life. Betty's loving hands created beautiful crochet pieces that she gave as gifts to friends and family. Betty is reunited in heaven with Howard, her husband of 57 years and infant daughters Linda and Penny.

She is survived by son William and daughter-in-love (as she called them)DeAnn Scalf of Mesa, Arizona, daughter Janice and son-in-love Gary Cole of Taft; loving son Howard "Bud" Scalf of Taft. Betty most cherished her grandchildren Mike and Cherish Potter of Gilbert, Arizona; Gary Cole, Jr. of Taft; Britton and Debbie of Case Grande, Arizona; Amanda Cole of Bakersfield and Carissa Scalf of Mesa, Arizona. Her special gift from God was her great grandchildren Alexis and Logan Potter of Gilbert, Arizona; and Daryn Scalf of Casa Grande, Arizona. Nieces and nephews, brother and sisters, brothers-in-love and sisters-in-love, friends old and new were Betty's family. She loved them all and blood lines were no boundaries to her.

Betty's and Howard's request was to be joined in death as in life. Services for them will be held at West Side District Cemetery on June 29, 2001 at 1:00 p.m. Reverend Sam White will officiate. Services are being handled by Erickson & Brown Funeral Home.
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Clyde Scarborough, 64
September 14, 1932 - September 29, 1996

Graveside funeral services will be held in the West Side District Cemetery Tuesday at 11:00 a.m. for Taft native Clyde E. Scarborough, 64. The Rev. Sam White, pastor of the Cuyama Assembly of God, and the officers of the Taft Elks Lodge #1527 will officiate at the services.

Mr. Scarborough was born in Taft on September 14, 1932 and passed away September 29, 1996 at his home. He was raised and educated in Taft and graduated from Taft Union High School in 1950 and Taft College in 1952. Mr. Scarborough worked for ARCO in the area from 1955-76 transferring to Alaska until he retired in 1986. He was a member of the Taft Elks Lodge #1527, serving as exulted ruler in 1989-90: the Independent Order of Odd Fellows Lodge #426 for 35 years, serving as noble grand; and the Petroleum Production Pioneers. He served as secretary of the ARCO Rovers until illness forced his retirement.

His survivors include his wife, Imogene Scarborough of Taft; his children and their spouses, Stephen and Allison Scarborough of Van Nuys, Claudia and Chuck Stein of Villard, Minnesota, Cynthia Hill of Taft, and Susan Landine of Fitchburg, Massachusetts; a sister and her husband, Loretta and Ed Wheeler of Taft; two brothers, Lynn and his wife Jean Scarborough of Taft; and Omar Scarborough of Fullerton; an aunt and her husband, Pat and John Coker of San Diego; 12 grandchildren; and eight great grandchildren.

The family has suggested that in lieu of flowers donated in Mr. Scarborough memory be made to Kern Hospice or to the American Cancer Society. Those who wish may call at the Erickson & Brown Funeral Home Monday from until 8:30 p.m.
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Lynford L. Scarborough
November 10, 1926 � August 2, 2003

Funeral services will be held in the Erickson & Brown Funeral Home Chapel on Thursday, August 7, 2003 at 10:00 a.m. for lifelong Taft resident, Lynford L. Scarborough, 76. Burial will follow in the West Side District Cemetery.

Born Lynford Leroy Scarborough, November 10, 1926. Our dear one went to be with his Savior on August 2, 2003. He was the first born of Omar �Bud� and Juanita Scarborough. He entered kindergarten at Conley School, going on to graduate from Taft Union High School, Taft College and San Diego State University. Lyn served in the Navy. He and his wife Jean were married on September 24, 1949. Lynford began working for Standard Oil as a summer hire at the age of sixteen. He went on to be an electrician and retired from Chevron as an electrical engineer in 1986 with forty-two years of service. His strong interest in youth and education led him to serve twenty-one years on the Taft Union High School Board. He loved God with all his heart and served Him faithfully. His quiet and steady manner blessed us all. His children learned from him that their actions speak louder than their words. His life will continue to serve as an example for all who knew him.

Lynford was preceded in death by his mother and father and brother Clyde. He is survived by his wife Jean, his daughter Carolyn and her husband Tom of Taft, California. His son Kevin and his wife Nellie of Bakersfield, his son Omar and his wife Ruth Ann of Long View, Washington, his six grandchildren Jennifer, Carrey, Jarod, Omar, Harrison and Leslie. His brother Omar and his wife Gay of Azusa, California, sister-in-law Imogene of Bakersfield, California, his sister Loretta and her husband Ed Wheeler of Taft and his Aunt Pat and Uncle John Coker of San Diego.

Those who wish to pay their respects may do so on Wednesday from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the Erickson & Brown Funeral Home, Taft.
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Omar George Scarborough, Jr.
January 28, 1930 - March 22, 2013

Omar was the third generation born in the small town of Taft, California on January 28, 1930, the second child of Juanita York Scarborough and Omar George (Bud) Scarborough. Omar graduated from Taft Union High School in 1948 and soon enlisted in the U.S. Navy. He was honorably discharged from the Navy after a four year tour of duty that included time in Korea.

1952, he enrolled at San Bernardino Valley College where he received his BA Degree. He was very athletic and enjoyed the sports in Track and Field. He won several medals with the Javelin and Discus Throw. 1954, he moved to San Diego and enrolled at San Diego State College where he received his BS degree in Business Management. A year before graduation, General Dynamics, Convair, SanDiego,had their eyes on Omar as their key person in Quality Assurance. So, immediately after graduation, he was hired as the Manager of Quality Assurance. He continued with the Aerospace Company until they began closing their doors, when there were no longer government contracts in California. In 1964, Omar was offered a management position with Hycon in Monrovia, California. Hycon, was a high-tech company involved in "Topographical Reconnaissance Photography", a process that enhanced the technology of government Reconnaissance Planes. Hycon later became Actron and was eventually merged with MacDonald Douglas in Huntington Beach. Omar was offered the position of Director of Quality Assurance and held this leadership position until his retirement in 1995. Omar continued as their consultant for many years after his official retirement.

Omar is survived by his wife, Gay, his two sons, Dan Scarborough of Lake Tahoe, California and David Scarborough of Stockton, California, and sister, Oretta Wheeler of Taft, California. He also left behind two sister in-laws, Jean Scarborough, of Taft, and Imogene Scarborough, of Bakersfield, as well as many nieces, nephews, sisters-in-laws and loving family and friends. Omar was blessed with the Gift of Leadership and Managerial Skills and was also blessed with mechanical ability to fix anything he encountered. This skill led to his collection of antique clocks and a clock repair shop. Omar also was a skilled craftsman and enjoyed buying "fixer-upper" homes where he could renovate and develop a beautiful family home. Omar's hobbies were fishing, camping, traveling, exploring, snow skiing, entertaining family and friends.

Memorial services will be held on Monday, April 8, 2013, at 10:00 a.m. at 570 N. Garey Avenue, Pomona, California followed by graveside services at the Riverside National Cemetery, 22495 Van Buren Blvd., Riverside, California.
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Cleona Pearl Schaef
May 2, 1909 - August 31, 1996

Cryptside services will be held at Hillcrest Memorial Park, 9101 Kern Canyon Road, at 1:00 p.m. on Wednesday, September 4, 1996 for Cleona Pearl Schaef, 87, who passed away August 31st in Bakersfield. Rev. Jim Patterson will officiate.

Mrs. Schaef was born May 2, 1909 in Taberville, Missouri. She was a resident of Kern County since 1918 and was raised on the Heath Ranch, west of Bakersfield. She was a member of Kern City Community Church. She was an avid golfer, enjoyed playing bridge and was a square dancer.

Mrs. Schaef is survived by her husband, Charlie E. Schaef of Bakersfield; son, Charles E. Schaef of Washington; daughter, Juanita C. Walker of Santa Maria; grandchildren, Steven Schaef of Naples, Florida, Julia Schaef of Port Orchard, Washington, Dennis Walker of El Cajon, California; great grandchildren, Steven Schaef, Jr., Sydney_Marie Schaef, and Aaron Schaef, all of Naples, Florida, Kathleen Walker and Julia Walker, both of El Cajon, Michael Walker, Jr. and Angela Walker, both of Hesperia.

Visitation will be held today from 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. at Greenlawn Mortuary. Friends are invited to a reception at Kern City Clubhouse following the service.
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Joyce W. Schasteen
December 23, 1925 - May 6, 2010

Joyce W. Schasteen , 84, who passed away May 6, 2010 in a local hospital was born December 23, 1925 in Payson, Utah and resided in Kern County for over 75 years. She was the only child of William H. Whimpey and Clotiel Wilson.

Joyce graduated from Taft Union High School in 1943, received a Bachelor's degree from UCLA in 1947, and a Masters degree from Cal in 1957. She was teacher/counselor with the Taft and Kern Union High School Districts for over 25 years.  Joyce was preceded in death by her husband of 48 years, James C. Schasteenin 1998. Survivors include her daughter and son-in-law, Carol Ann and Matthew Craig of Long Beach; son and daughter-in-law James William and Midea Schasteen of Walnut Creek; 6 grandchildren, Joshua, Abigail, Emily, Christopher, Allyson and Joven; 1 great grandchild, JJ; and numerous nieces and nephews and a host of dear friends.

Graveside services will be held at Greenlawn Memorial Park, 3700 River Blvd., Saturday, May 15, 2010 at 10:00 a.m. President Ernie Larson and Bishop Brad Davis from the church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day-Saints will officiate. Visitation will be Friday May 14, 2010 from 3:00 to 8:00 p.m. The family will greet visitors from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m.

Greenlawn Mortuary
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Samuel M. Shasteen
January 23, 1896 - May 29, 1968

Funeral services will be conducted in Greenlawn Memorial Chapel in Bakersfield Monday at 10:00 a.m. for Samuel Montell Schasteen, 72, 2602 Nelson Street, Bakersfield, who died Wednesday in a Bakersfield hospital.

The Rev. Dr. J. A. Laavendar, First Baptist Church, will officiate. Masonic services will be conducted by Taft Lodge 516 F&AM, Larry Arndt, workshipful master. Interment will be in the Masonic section of Greenlawn Memorial Park.

A native of Missouri, Mr. Schasteen had resided in Kern County for 47 years. Before retirement he had engaged in the petroleum industry for 38 years and was last employed by Standard Oil Company as a foreman. He was a member of the Taft Lodge F&AM.

Survivors include his wife, Helen Schasteen; a daughter, Mrs. Geraldine Spangle, Bakersfield; three sons, James, Bakersfield; John, Woodland, and Robert, Seattle; a sister, Mabel Stringer, Southgate; two brothers, John, Lake Arrowhead and Ted Paso Robles; 11 grandchildren and three great grandchildren.
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Devon Jay Schell
September 1, 1970 - August 3, 2009

Graveside funeral services will be held in the West Side District Cemetery on Monday, August 10, 2009 at 10:00 a.m. for Bakersfield resident, Devon Jay Schell, 38.

Devon was born in Los Banos on September 1, 1970 and passed away at his home on August 3, 2009. He was raised in Merced County and has lived in Bakersfield for the last five years. He had been employed as a welder and forklift operator.

His survivors include his mother and step-father, Margaret and Charles Kirk of Bakersfield; his father and other mother, Willis and Betty Schell of Denair; his grandmother, Dolores Huckins of Taft; his step-brother, Richard Adcox of Delaware; his step-sister with whom he was very close, Julie Cardella and her husband, Gene and their daughter, Danielle; his half-sister, Debra Ackerman of Ceres, California; and his auntie and uncle for whom he had a special love, Alice and Duane of Reno, Nevada; his other several aunts and uncles and many cousins. Devon will be missed greatly by his family. We love you son. You are gone but not forgotten and are forever in our hearts.

There are no visitation hours scheduled and the services are under the direction of the Erickson & Brown Funeral Home. www.EricksonandBrown.com

A special Thank You to Harold Baer. M.D, staff and nurses at the dialysis center.
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LaVerna M. Schertz
December 30, 1916 - May 24, 2006

Funeral services will be held in the Erickson and Brown Funeral Home Chapel on Wednesday, May 24, 2006 at 2:00 p.m. for long time Taft resident, LaVerna M. Schertz, 89.

Mrs. Schertz was born in Page City, Kansas on December 30, 1916 and passed away in Taft on May 21, 2006. She moved to McKittrick in 1938 and has resided in Taft since 1993. Mrs. Schertz was a loving wife, mother, grandmother and homemaker all her life.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Harold Schertz; her infant daughter, Sandra Lou Schertz and all her seven brothers. Mrs. Schertz is survived by her two daughters and their husbands, Leona and Dan Drace and Karin and Bill Lackey who are all full time RVers; her grandchildren and their spouses, Jeff and Margaret Drace of Stockton, Brian Drace and Darlene of Gilroy, Sandra and John Downey of Taft and Mike and Stacey Lackey of Taft; her great grandchildren, Corey and Luke Drace, Matt, Courtney, Christina and Mark Downey and Seth Lackey; her sisters, Nelda Dinning, Louanna Meadows and her husband, Gene, and Darlene Agan and her husband, Dennis; and by many nieces and nephews.

Those who wish to pay their respects may do so on Tuesday from 3:00 p.m to 8:30 p.m. The arrangements are under the direction of the Erickson & Brown Funeral Home.
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Terry Glen Schertz, Sr.
February 17, 1950 - January 22, 2009

Born February 17, 1950 in Bakersfield, Californina to Clayton and Maldrene Schertz and went home to be with our Lord on the 22nd of January 2009 peacefully.

He is preceded in death by his parents Clayton and Maldrene and a brother, Robert Schertz. He leaves behind his loving wife of 31 years, Lois. Two daughters Omie and Julie of Bakersfield, two sons Edward of Taft and Terry Jr. of Bakersfield, 30 grandchildren, and two great grandchildren, brother Orville and Linda Schertz of Fredona, Kansas, brother-in-law Kenneth and Pati Miller of Sharon, Tennessee, brother-in-law Robert and Cindy Miller of Sharon, Tennessee, numerous nieces and nephews and numeroius friends. Dad loved his family, grandkids and friends. Dad was a big diehard Raiders fan. He will be missed by all who loved him.

The viewing is February 4, 2009 at the West Side Mortuary at 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. The services are scheduled for Thursday February 5, 2009 at 2:00 p.m. at the West Side Mortuary.
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Dell D. Schey, 60
July 19, 1935 - May 5, 1996

Graveside funeral services will be held in the West Side District Cemetery Saturday at 11:00 a.m. for Taft resident Dell D. Schey, 60.

Mr. Schey was born on July 19, 1935 and passed away late Thursday night in a Bakersfield hospital.

He is survived by his wife, Margie Schey of Taft; and a daughter and her husband, Debbee and David Hardt of Las Vegas, Nevada.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the American Cancer Society, 1523 California Ave., Bakersfield, California 93268.

The services are under the direction of the Erickson & Brown Funeral Home.
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Frank Schimandle 82
June 17, 1924 - April 27, 2007

Frank Schimandle 82 Pismo Beach April 27. Visitation 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.followed by Rosary 7 a.m. May 3rd. Marshall-Spoo Sunset Funeral Chaple, Grover Beach, Mass noon May 4th St. Paul Catholic Church, Pismo Beach, Marshall-Spoo Sunset Funeral Chaple Grover Beach.
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Frank Joseph Schimandle, 82
June 17,1924 - April 27, 2007

Frank Joseph Schimandle died Friday April 27, 2007 in Arroyo Grande Community Hospital in Arroyo Grande, California.

Frank was born June 17, 1924 to Evalina and Vincent Schimandle in Taft California and baptised in the San Luis Obispo Mission. He was educated in Taft schools and graduated from Taft Union High School in 1942.

At age of 18 he joined the U.S. Army Air Corps, and when he was 19 he married his high school sweetheart Frances Quimby, two months before he was shipped over seas to serve on a B 17, pilot.

Durnig his service he was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross and the Air Medal with four Oak Leaf Clusters and several other decorations.

He was especially proud of having earned membership in the Lucky Bastard Club a distinguished honor awarded by the 8th Air Force completeing 35 mission over Germany. He flew three bombing missions on D-Day over the English Channel during the invasion of Germany. Capt. Schimandle was dishcharged in 1946 after which he enrolled in the Universty of California at Santa Barbara; upon graduation he began his long career in public education in Bakersfield.

In 1965 Frank was one of 18 achool administors in the United States to receive the American Educators Medal from the Freedom Foundation of Valley Forge for his "exceptional work in promoting responsible citizenship, patriotism and an understanding of the spiritual and moral values of our Constutional Republic." After serving as a teacher and counsler at various schools in Bakersfield he opened two new schools as principal-- Colonel Thomas Baker Elementery and Compton Junior High.

In 1966 Frank annd Frances moved to Sacremento, where he served as principle of John F. Kennedy High School. Frank was tireless in his efforts to create a safe and postive enviornment for his students; he again received national recognition when, with the help of his younger brother, Bill, an engineer with Cal Tech Jet Propulsion Laboratory, the school recieved grants and assistance from NASA.

They established and electronic alert system for instant detection of any disturbance on the school campus in the turbulent 1960's. Frank spoke to numeroous school districts throughout the nation to acquaint them with this valuable tool that helped prevent violence in high schools which was prevalent at that time.

Athletics were always an important part of Frank's life. He was most proud to have been on the Taft High School football team that beat Bakersfield in 1941.

As a softball pitcher, he was noted for his numerous no-hit no-run games. He pitched in the Softball World Series in Arizona in the 1950s. He played center on the UCSB Gaucho basketball team in 1946-1949.

In 1952 his love of fishing took him to Lake Almanor, where he and his family spent many happy summers in their cabin at the lakeshore.

Frank served as president of Region XIII School Administrators and President of Kiwanis of Greater Pismo Beach and held a life membership in those organizations as well as a life Membership of the Oceano-Five Cities Order of Elks haveing been a member for 56 years. However, his many achievements were insignificant when compared to his pride and joy in his two sons and their families.

Frank is survived by his devoted wife of 63 years, Frances; his son Joe and wife Sue; his son David and wife Lois; daughter-in-law Debbie; and grandchildren Christian and wife Summer, Patrick and wife Lucinda, grandsons Palmer and Steven and granddaughter Jackie; and greatgrandsons Paxston and Ian. Frank referred to his grandchildren as the "whipped cream on the cake." He is also survived by nephews Bill, John, James and Matthew and niece Kathy. Surviving great-nephews and nieces are Crystal, Justin, Jason, Jamie, Tim, Andrew, Christina, Iris, Kit, Curtis, Logan, Keoni and Kalani. Frank leaves behind many cousins who were very dear to him. He was preceded in death by his parents, Vincent and Evalina, and his brother Bill and wife Margaret. Over the years Frank was blessed with many wonderful friends who enriched his life immensely; he treasured and appreciated them. He earned respect and affection wherever he went. His was a kind and gentle soul who deeply loved his family, his country and his faith. He truly earned the right to be called an American gentleman.

Visitation will begin at 10:00 a.m. Thursday, May 3, at Marshall-Spoo Sunset Funeral Chapel. Recitation of the Rosary will be at 7:00 p.m. Thursday, May 3, at Marshall-Spoo Sunset Funeral Chapel, Longbranch and 13th Street, Grover Beach. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at noon Friday, May 4, at St. Paul's Catholic Church, 800 Bello St., Pismo Beach. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial donations may be made to the Kiwanis Club Greater Pismo Beach, P.O. Box 44, Pismo Beach, CA 93448, to be used to support youth activites. Arrangements are under the direction of Marshall-Spoo Sunset Funeral Chapel in Grover Beach. In Frank's words: "If you're gonna be a bear, be a Grizzly!"
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Rubie Mae Schmidt
October 14, 1922 - March 24, 2010

Rubie A. Schmidt, 87, was born in the month of October in 1922, to Marvin and Iris Shull and passed away on Wednesday,March 24, 2010, at her home in Taft. Rubie was born in Texas on one of Iris's visits thereto her family, but Durant, Oklahoma was where the Shull family lived and the town Rubie called her birthplace. Rubie was one of ten children, one of the younger siblings.

Her father was a farmer and rancher. She attended elementary and high school in Durant and then spent two years at South Western State University.

During WWII, Rubie left the University and her dream of being a dancer and moved to California to take a job as a secretary at an airplane plant in San Diego and moved in with one of her older, single sisters so that she could send money home to her mother and younger siblings still living in Oklahoma.

It was while she was on a blind, double date with her sister that she met the man she would marry, Walter Albert Schmidt, Jr. In 1942 she married Walt in Los Angeles at "the biggest church Walt could find." Because none of Rubie's family or Walt's parents could come to the wedding, they were attended by Walt's older sister and brother-in-law, Olive and Charles Warnock, and the minister.

A few days later, a small wedding reception was held at Walt's parents home in Taft where Walt's mother and grandmother made and decorated a multi-tiered wedding cake for the newly wed couple. Rubie and Walt lived in San Diego while they both worked at the airplane plant and then moved to Oakridge, Tennessee, when Walt accepted a civilian job at a military project . At the end of the war, Rubie and Walt moved to Walt's home town of Taft. Walt worked at Standard Oil while Rubie worked at Walt's parents business , Schmidt's Photo Shop. But soon, Rubie and Walt set about establishing Walt's TV on Center Street, where they continued to work until their decision to retire and sell the business.

Rubie embraced Taft as her new hometown and became involved in many civic organizations and community projects. Rubie was at the forefront of many beautification projects, especially the planting of the Fruitless Plum trees and Palm trees on the Taft streets. She hand watered these trees until the city began supplying water to the trees. Rubie supported the Taft Museum and the efforts to save the Taft Fort. Many will remember Rubie's outspokenness at City Council, Planning Commission, and Chamber of Commerce meetings. Rubie was a regular booster at Taft Union High School and Taft Junior College football games while her three children attended there, and when her youngest son, Robert, attended Robert USC, she and Walt became Trojan fans, traveling to Los Angeles to attend many games.

Rubie enjoyed gardening and traveling to visit friends and family and various locations. Walt obtained a private pilot's license, and they became partners in ownership of an airplane which further opened up their traveling opportunities. Rubie loved to dance and for many years, she and Walt belonged to a Taft dance club.

Rubie was preceded in death by her husband, Walter Albert Schmidt, Jr., and all but one of her siblings. She is survived by her daughter, Patricia Ann Litzenberger (James); her son, Walter Albert Schmidt III (Sylvia); her youngest sister, Joyce Tarintino; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Rubie requested a private internment at the West Side District Cemetery in Taft. The family requests that if anyone would like to do something in Rubie's memory that donations may be made in Rubie's name to either the American Cancer Society or the American Heart Association. Rubie will be missed and loved forever. www.EricksonAndBrown.com
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Robert Anthony Schmidt
June 28, 1955 - August 26, 2010

Robert Anthony Schmidt, 55, passed away at home on August 26, 2010. Robert was born in the month of June, in 1955, in Taft, California, the youngest child to Walter A. Schmidt and Rubie M. Schmidt, long time residents of Taft.

Robert attended all the grades of the Taft School system, and graduated from both Taft Union High School and Taft Junior College before attending and graduating from the University of Southern California with a BS Degree in Business. Upon graduation, Robert worked for USC for a number of years before returning to Taft to help care for his mother.In Robert's free time, he enjoyed gardening, photography, remodeling and repairing the family home.

Robert was preceded in death by both of his parents and survived by his older siblings, Patricia Ann Litzenberger (James)and Walter Albert Schmidt, III (Sylvia.)

Robert requested a private interment near his parents at the West Side District Cemetery in Taft. The family requests that anyone wanting to remember Robert, please, summit donations in Robert's memory to the West Kern Oil Museum in Taft.
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Walter A. Schmidt Jr.
June 9, 1920 - January 12, 1995

Graveside funeral services will be held in the West Side District Cemetery Monday at 2:00 p.m. for Taft resident Walter A. Schmidt, 74. The Rev. Sam White, pastor of Cuyama Assembly of God, will officiate at the services. Mr. Schmidt was born in San Diego on June 9, 1920 and passed away in a Bakersfield Hospital on January 12, 1995. He was a member of the 1938 graduating class of Taft Union High School. He went on to Taft College and graduated two years later.

On July 21, 1943 he married the former Rubie Shull in the Hollywood First Methodist Church. In 1944 he went to work for Alexson Pump Company before accepting a position at U.C. Berkeley's Donner Radiation Lab. Soon after Walt and Rubie were sent to Oakridge, Tennessee to work on the Manhattan Project. In 1945, at the close of the war, the Schmidt's returned to Taft and Mr. Schmidt began working for Standard Oil Company. In 1952 the Schmidts started their consumer electronic business, Walt's TV. They sold the business in 1985 and Mr. Schmidt went to work as an electrician for Repco, Inc. He was active in local and state politics and was currently serving on the Planning Commission. He was a member and past president of the Taft Chamber of Commerce and a member of the Taft Elks Lodge #1527 B.P.O.E., and the Rotary Club of Taft.

He is survived by his wife, Rubie Schmidt of Taft; a daughter, Patricia Ann Schmidt Litzenberger and her husband, James Ray of Atascadero; his sons, Walter A. Schmidt III and his wife Sylvia Licon Schmidt, of Selma, and Robert A. Schmidt of Los Angels; and a sister, Olive Marie Warncock of San Diego.

Those who wish to pay their respects may do so at the Erickson & Brown Funeral Home Sunday from 3:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. and again Monday from 8:30 a.m. until 12:30 p.m.
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Michael Jay Schnaidt
July 24, 1961 - June 6, 2010

Michael was born July 24, 1961 on his father's birthday in Buffalo, Wyoming and passed away June 6, 2010 on his mother's birthday in Chatsworth, California.

Michael graduated from TUHS and lived most of his life in Taft. As a young person, Michael enjoyed working on bicycles and riding skateboards. Later Michael enjoyed his family, movies, sports, music and a good joke or funny story. He and his laugh will be missed greatly by his family and everyone who knew him.

Michael is survived by his daughter, Tori Schnaidt; son, Michael Brandon Schnaidt; mother, Sharon Schnaidt; father, Oscar Schnaidt; brother, Mark and Cynthia Schnaidt; brother, Dean and Shannon Schnaidt; sister Dixie (Schnaidt) and Tommy Vaughan; nieces, Kierstin Schnaidt and Rachel Vaughan; nephews, Jared Schnaidt, Kyle Schnaidt, Jesse Vaughan, Ryan Vaughan and Collin Reisenauser and many aunts, uncles, cousins and friends.

A public memorial will be announced for the third week in October.

Condolences may be sent to 106 Woodlawn, Taft, California 93268.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to the American Diabetes Association or Defeat Diabetes Foundation, Inc.
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Craig Scholefield
May 31, 1960 - January 22, 2011

A memorial service will be held in the First Baptist Church, 220 North Street, on Saturday, January 29, 2011 at 1:00 p.m. for life-long Kern County resident Craig Scholefield, 50. The Elders of Community Christian Fellowship will officiate.

Craig was born in Bakersfield in May 31, 1960 and passed away on January 22, 2011 in Bakersfield. He had been a longtime resident of Maricopa before moving to Taft. Craig had been employed by Berry Petroleum and was the owner and operator of the local Service Master and for the last several years he owned and operated Supreme Floor and Windows. He was and active member of the Community Christian Fellowship, Taft Kiwanis Club and the Taft Chamber of Commerce. Craig enjoyed landscaping, creating, building, Hama treks and collecting oilfield memorabilia.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Jeanie Scholefield and his father-in-law, Ron Woolverton. Craig is survived by his wife, Vicki Scholefield; his father, Bud Scholefield; his sons, Andrew Scholefield and his wife, Beth, Matthew Scholefield, Zak Scholefield and his fianc'ee, Jenny; his stepdaughters, Melissa Robertson and her husband John, Elizabeth Ursey and her husband John and Celia Roth; his sisters, Sheila Young and her husband Mike, Lori Dodge and her husband Bruce and Stacey Fountain; his grandchildren, Shara, Hunter, Andrew, Jason, Noah and Seth; his uncle, Bob Scholefield and his wife, Donna; his nieces and nephews, Kierstien Melendez, Byron Young, Shannon Dodge and Blake Dodge and by numerous great nieces and nephews and cousins.

Craig was known and will be remembered for his quick with, friendly wave and big smile. He never met a stranger.

There are no visitation hours scheduled. In lieu of flowers the family has suggested that donations to the West Kern Oil Museum may be made in Craig's memory. www.EricksonAndBrown.com
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Jeanie Scholefield
March 11, 1933 - March 17, 2006

Jeanie Scholefield age, 73, born in Chino, California and resided in Shell Beach passed away on March 17th due to complication after heart surgery at Loma Linda Hospital.

A memorial service will be held Tuesday March 28th at 1:00 p.m. at Los Osos Valley Mortuary, 2260 Los Osos Valley Road, in Los Osos, California.

Jeanie Scholefield was active in a local investment and garden club.

Survivors includ her husband of 53 years Bud Scholefield, daughter, Shelia Young and husband Mike of Taft; daughter Lori Dodge and husband Bruce of Bakersfield; son Craig Scholefield and wife Vicki of Maricopa and daughter Stacy Fountain of Shell Beach. She also leaves 7 grand-children and 2 great grandchildren.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the American Heart Association.
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Benny Lee Schrader
January 26, 1928 - May 6, 2010

Services are pending for Taft resident, Ben L. Schrader, 82. The services are under the direction of West Side Memorial Services, Porteous Family.
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Bobbie Louise Schroeder
June 8, 1922 - December 17, 2012

A graveside funeral service was held in the West Side District Cemetery on Friday, December 21, 2012, at 11:00 a.m. for Bobbie Louise Schroeder, 90, with Pastor Kathy Cannon officiating.

Mrs. Schroeder was born in Angus, Texas on June 8, 1922 and passed away in New Braunfels, Texas on December 17, 2012. While living in Taft she was employed by the Taft City School District as a teacher's aide. She had lived in Taft from August of 1952 until moving to Texas in 2003. She and her husband had also been members of the First Baptist Church in Taft. In New Braunfels she was a member of the First Protestant Church.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Burton and Evelyn Jones of Angus, Texas, her husband, Jerrold D. Schroeder of Taft, California and her sister, Vergie Allen of Corsicana, Texas. Mrs. Schroeder is survived by her younger sisters, Loretta Williams of Woodway, Texas and Jo Lucas of Irving, Texas; her daughter, Karen Schroeder of Valencia; and her son, Gordon Schroeder of New Braunfels, Texas; two grandchildren, three great-grandchildren and several nieces and nephews.

There were no visitation hours scheduled and the arrangements were under the direction of the Erickson & Brown Funeral Home. To convey condolences or sign an online registry, please visit www.EricksonAndBrown.com
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Jerrold David Schroeder
January 21, 1917 - October 7, 2003

Funeral services will be held in the First Baptist Church, on North Street, on Saturday morning at 10:00 a.m. for former Taft Resident, Jerrold David Schroeder, 86. Rev. PaulRay will officiate at the services. Burial will follow in the West Side District Cemetery. Mr. Schroeder was born in Mt. Lake, Minnesota on January 21, 1917 and passed away in New Braunfels, Texas on October 7, 2003.

He had lived in Kern County for over 50 years and had recently moved to New Braunfels, Texas. Mr. Schroeder proudly served his county as a member of the U.S. Navy. He had been a teacher at Taft College for over 30 years.

Mr. Schroeder was preceded in death by his parents, David and Marie Schroeder and by his two sisters, Loraine and Marcia. His survivors include his wife Bobbie Schroeder of New Braunfels, Texas; his daughter Karen Schroeder of Valencia; his son, Gordon Schroeder of New Braunfels, Texas; his two grandchildren and several nieces and nephews.

Friends are invited to pay their respects at the Erickson & Brown Funeral Home on Friday from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
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Lyman E. Schryver, 80
July 25, 1920 - June 29, 2001

Graveside funeral services will be held on Thursday at 2:00 p.m. in the West Side District Cemetery for longtime Taft resident, Lyman Ellsworth Schryver, 80.

Mr. Schryver was born in Iowa on July 25, 1920 and passed away in Bakersfield on June 29, 2001. He had lived in Taft since 1951 and was employed by ARCO for 30 years. He was a member of the Loyal Order of Moose, Taft Lodge #1431 and also a member of the OCAW. He loyally served his country during WWII as a member of the U.S. Navy.

Mr. Schryver was preceded in death by his wife, Lavon, in 1985. He is survived by his children and their spouses, Larry and Linda Schryver of Anaheim Hills, Linda and Toney Sandlin of Taft and Lee and Barbara Schryver of Taft, his grandchildren, Keri Morfin, Jason Schryver, Shannon Sandlin, Greg Sandlin, Emily, Blake and Kaitlyn Schryver, his great grandchildren Jessica Morfin and Cori Anderson; his sister Jaurine Goecke of Pennsylvania; his brother Lauren Schryver of Missouri; and by several nieces and nephews who all live in different parts of the United States.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the American Cancer Society. There are no visitation hours scheduled and the arrangements are under the direction of the Erickson & Brown Funeral Home.
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Isobel Ann Schulz, 65
March 22, 1931 - June 18, 1996

Funeral services will be held in the Sunset Chapel of the Taft Funeral Home, Friday at 11:00 a.m. for Isobel Schulz, 65. The Rev. Sam White, pastor of the New Cuyama Assembly of God, will officiate at the services.

Mrs. Schulz was born in New Prague, Minnesota on March 22, 1931 and passed away June 18, 1996 in local hospital. She was a U.S. Air Force veteran, having served during the Korean War. She was a loving mother and grandmother who gave her devoted time to her family. She was an avid reader. Mrs. Schulz had resided in Taft for the past 35 years, having moved from lSt. Paul, Minnesota.

She was preceded in death by her husband, John George Schulz II, in 1994; a grandson, Michael Aldis, in 1993; and a great grandson, Johnnie George Schulz V, in 1995. She is survived by her children and their spouses, John and Cynthia Schulz, Dennis Schulz, Steve Schulz, Debra and Phillip Woodward, Renee and Billy Scalf, and Richelle and Kevin Childress, all of Taft, and Vickie and Ken Driver of Fresno; two sisters, Christine Moran and Rosine Page, both of St. Paul; 18 grandchildren; many nieces and nephews, and a host of friends.

Visitation will be held Friday from 9:00 a.m. until service time. The services are entrusted to the care of the Bonewell Family of the Taft Funeral Home.
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John Schulz
September 28, 1954 - January 19, 2007

Graveside funeral services will be held in the West Side District Cemetery on Wednesday, January 24, 2007 at 11:00 a.m. for Taft resident, John Schulz, 52. John was born in St. Paul, Minnesota on September 28, 1954 and passed away at his home in Taft on January 19, 2007.

John was raised in Taft and worked as a mechanic for over 25 years. He enjoyed rides on his motorcycle with his wife and friends. John loved to work on cars and go camping at the beach with his family.

He was preceded in death by his grandparents, John and Sarah Schulz and John and Frances Simek; his parents, John and Betty Schulz; his grandson Johnnie Five Schulz; his daughter and son-in-law and their baby, Cindy and Alex Jordan; and by his nephew, Michael Scalf. Johns survivors include his wife and best friend, Cynthia Schulz of Taft; his two sons, John Schulz, IV and Steve Schulz and his wife, Heather all of Taft; his daughter, Nicole and son-in-law, Dave Perry of Taft; his grandson, Bryson Schulz; his brothers and their wives, Steve and Brenda Schulz and Dennis and Brenda Duquette all of Taft; his sisters and their husbands, Vicki and Ken Driver of Fresno, Debbie and Phil Woodward of Taft, Renee and Billy Scalf of Taft and Shellie and Kevin Childress of Taft; his aunts, Rosine Paige, Christine Moran, Doris Clemons and Jane Anderson; his brothers-in-laws Will and Charles Lewis of Maricopa, and Henry and Heidi Lewis of Manheim, Germany; his mother and father-in-law Jim and Darlene of Maricopa; his father-in-law John Machado of Fresno; his nephews, Tony Schulz, Kenny Driver, Kevin and Erin Driver, Daniel and Becca Scalf, David and Nicci Scalf, Benji and Marcus Lewis and Joe and Will, Jr. Lewis; his nieces, Jennifer and Samatha Woodward, Stacy Schulz, Sephanie and Chad Coontz, Rhiannon, Sarah and Destiny Schulz, Krystal and Brittny Scalf, Marianna, Priscilla, Joyceann Lewis and Carrie Louise Lewis Nelson; his great nieces and nephews, Cameron and Elizabeth Scalf, Blake Coontz and Henry Lewis, Jr.; and by many many friends including F C F and you all know who you are.

Friends may pay their respects on Tuesday from 3:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at the Erickson & Brown Funeral Home.
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Erma Esther Schuster
November 28, 1917 - November 22, 2002

Private family funeral services will be held for longtime Fellows resident Erma Schuster. Erma was born November 28, 1917 in Bakersfield, California and passed away November 22, 2002 in Taft at Mercy Westside Hospital. Her family moved to Derby Acres in 1936. She was a member of the 1937 Taft High Graduating class. After graduating Erma worked for J.C.Penny in Taft for a number of years. All who knew her will miss Erma.

She is survived by her son Jerry Schuster of Taft, three grandsons and their families; Jeff Meacham of Lake Isabella, Brian Meacham of Bakersfield and David Sweeney of Taft; four sisters and their families Doris Buttke and Sudie Love of Paso Robles, Bernice Simmons and Melba Ferguson of Taft, three brothers and their families Ray and Charles Walrath of Derby Acres and Delbert Walrath of Taft. Her daughter Janis Meacham in 1996, husband Willmore in 1997, and her brother Edward Walrath preceded Erma in death. Services will be under the direction of Erickson & Brown Fruneral Home.
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Wilmore "Willie" Schuster, 81
June 5, 1916 - November 21, 1997

Graveside funeral services will be held in the West Side District Cemetery on Tuesday afternoon at 1:00 p.m. for Fellows resident, Wilmore "Willie" Schuster, 81.

Mr. Schuster was born in Worth, Missouri on June 5, 1916 and moved to Fellows when he was seven months old. He passed away in the local hospital on November 21, 1997. He was raised and educated in Fellows, attended Taft Union High School and graduated from there in 1934. He also attended and granduated from Taft College. Mr. Schuster retired as a machine shop foreman at Santa Fe Energy after 43 years of service. He enjoyed camping, fishing and hunting.

He was preceded in death by his daughter, Janis Meachem, in July of 1996 and his sister, Lillavee Stone, in November 1983. His survivors include his wife of 57 years, Erma Schuster of Fellows; his son, Jerry Schuster of Taft; his grandsons, Jeff and Brian Meachem of Bakersfield, David Sweeney of Taft; his brother-in-law, Carl Stone of Coalinga and his nephew, Roger Stone of Long Beach.

Friends wishing to sign the register book, prior to the service may do so on Monday until 8:30 p.m. at the Erickson & Brown Funeral Home.
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Carolyn Schwafel, 74
September 25, 1914 - October 21, 1993

The Rosary will be recited Tuesday at 7:00 p.m. in the Erickson & Brown Funeral Home Chapel for longtime Taft resident Carolyn Schwafel, 74. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Wednesday at 1:00 p.m. in St. Mary's Catholic Church, followed by interment in the West Side District Cemetery. The Rev. Loydell J. Marth will officiate at both services.

Mrs. Schwafel was born September 25, 1914 in Shannon and passed away a local hospital Thursday. She had lived in Taft for the past 45 years and was a member of St. Mary's Catholic Church.

Her survivors include her husband, Mike Schwafel of Taft; two sisters, Florene Brant of Pismo Beach and Mollie Treece of Paso Robles; a brother Chuck Norton of La Mirada; and numerous nieces and nephews. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be sent to the American Cancer Society in memory of Mrs. Schwafel.
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Michael Lawrence "Mike" Schwafel, 74
September 23, 1919 - November 18, 1993

The Rosary will be recited in the Erickson & Brown Funeral Home Monday at 8:00 p..m. for Taft native Michael Lawrence "Mike" Schwafel, 74 . The Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Tuesday at 10:00 a.m. at St. Mary's Catholic Church. The Rev. Loydell J. Marth pastor of St. Mary's will be the celebrant. Burial will follow in the West Side District Cemetery.

Mr. Schwafel was born in Taft September 23, 1919 and passed away in a Bakersfield hospital Thursday afternoon. He was raised and educated in Taft and graduated from Taft Union High School in 1937. He was employed by the city of Taft as a policeman for over 20 years. He was a member of St. Mary's Catholic Church, Taft Elks Lodge and the Native Sons of California.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Carolyn A. Schwafel, last month. His survivors include two sisters, Ann S. Murphy of Los Angeles and Pauline B. Zanger of Hollister; a brother, Leroy Schwafel of San Jose; and numerous nieces and nephews.
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Richard Warren "Dick" Schwass, 87
October 19, 1910 - September 11, 1997

At his own request no services will be held for richard Warren "Dick" Schwass, who passed away Thursday at a Ukiah hospital.

He was born on October 19, 1910 in Salt Lake City,Utah. He served in the U.S. Army during World War II. He worked as an accountant for Standard Oil of California for 42 years. Dick was a avid reader, cook, world traveler and humanitarian. He belonged to the 250th Coast Artillery Association, the Chevron Retirees Association and the Coffee Clatch of Taft. He lived in Taft for 45 years and was part of the West Kern Oil Museum and volunteered at many local Taft Elementary Schools. He moved to Ukiah four years ago.

Mr. Schwass is survived by his wife, Gladys, of Ukiah; his son, Gerald, and his wife, Tamara, of Uniah; and three grandsons: Joshua, Marc and Jared. He was preceded in death by his son, Ronald Richard Schwass, and by his brother, Mickey Schwass.

In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to the local library. The Eversold Mortuary is in charge of arrangements.
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Margaret Scofield
July 24, 1923 - May 7, 2010

Margaret Scofield passed away peacefully at her home on May 7, 2010, surrounded and loved by her family. Margaret is survived by her twin sister, Mildred Peale of Thousand Oaks, California; and her three daughters, Suzanne Bishop (Towne) of Tucson, Arizona, Christine Kelly (Patrick) and Karen Olney (Jon) of Bakersfield. She has six grandchildren: Darren and Mark Bishop, Jeremy and Jonathan Gage, Joni Sallee and Jeffery Onley and eight great grand children.

She was born in Lost Hills, California to Ben and Eva Hadlock and a family of eight siblings, Margaret attended school in Lost Hills, Wasco, Bakersfield College, and San Jose State. Where she earned her teaching credential. A few years later she became a speech therapist. In 1951, Margaret met and married Len Scofield, together they built a home raised a family, and worked as teachers. Margaret taught school and was a speech therapist with the Beardsley School District. In addition she and Len operated the Ferris Wheel at Hart Park on weekends and holidays.

Upon retiring from teaching, Margaret and Len traveled thousands of miles in their camper, from Alaska to Mexico and Carpinteria to Washington D.C. They visited China, Europe, Alaska, Japan, and Australia.

Margaret's life had both roots and wings. Her roots were deeply embedded in her home and family whom she loved deeply and protected fiercely. Her wings are those of us left to pass on the love and integrity she and Len shared with each of us.

The family would like to express sincere appreciation to those who tended to Margaret's care in the past year: Dr. Baker, Dr. Ashraff, Pacifica Senior Living, Hoffmann Hospice, and Linda, her caretaker from Visiting Angeles. Contributions can be made in Margaret's memory to the AmericanHeart Association, the American Cancer Society, or an organization of your choice. Her graveside service will be held May 11, at 10:30 at Greenlawn Cemetery on River Blvd. and Panorama Drive.
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Charles [Charlie] Ray Scott
August 22, 1936 - July 23, 2002

Golf attire is requested for guests. (Casual) Services will be held at St. John's Luthern Church, 912 New Stine Rd., Saturday, July 27 at 10:30 a.m., for Charles Ray Scott "Charlie", 65, who passed away July 23, 2002 at home. Pastor Dennis Hilken will officiate and interment will follow in Greenlawn Southwest Memorial Park, 2739 Panama Lane.

Charlie was born August 22, 1936 in Wheeler, Texas. He resided in Taft for 26 years and had resided in Bakersfield for the past two years. He graduated from Bakersfield High School in 1955. He married Joanne on June 16, 1956. In 1961 he became a deputy with the Kern County Sheriff's Office. He worked in Patrol and Corrections and was a detective in Vice and Narcotics. Charlie was promoted to Sergeant in 1966 and served as watch commander in Taft for nine years, and as watch commander in the jail for six years. He retired in 1981. In 1986 Charlie became the Chief of Police of the Taft Police Department. He was responsible for improving the overall professionalism and reputation of the Taft PD, instituting the DARE program in Taft schools, obtaining funding and implementing an aggressive and successful drug enforcement program (ADAPT) in Taft, negotiating for building and operating the 500-bed Taft Community Correctional Facility, which brought 80 jobs to Taft along with additional revenue, developing a take-home vehicle program for police officers. And he served as Taft's interim city manager for several months. He retired in 1995 from the City of Taft Police Department. Charlie was a member of the Elks for 35 years. Mason/Shriners for 41 years. Footprinters of Bakersfield as a charter member, Kern County Police Chiefs Association and International Police Association. He served on the Board of Trustees for Taft College for 17 years. His hobbies and special interests included golfing, golfing, golfing, collecting and tasting wine, traveling with family and friends and BBQ'ing for everyone.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Bertha Largent Spencer of Shawnee, Oklahoma and James D. Scott Sr. of Wheeler, Texas; and a brother James D. Scott, Jr. of Los Angeles. Charlie is survived by his wife of 46 years, JoAnn Scott; daughters/husbands, and grandchildren. Valarie and Mick Zumbro of Payson, Arizona, and Bryan-20 and Brenna-16; Diana and Greg Nelson of Bakersfield, and Malarie-16, Makalah-16 and Matthew-8; and nephews, Jim of Oregon, Rich of Taft, Ron of Reno, Neveda and and Gary of Carlsbad. Charlie became the boys surrogate father after the death of his brother.

Pallbearers will be Rick Scott, Ron Scott, Brian Zumbro, Mick Zumbro, Tim Pierce, Greg Nelson, Matthew Nelson, Gary Scott and Greg Greeson. Honorary pallbearers will be Gene Smith, Don Zumbro, Don Bandy, Mike Arnold, Gerry Collis, George Culver, and all Charlie's golfing buddies. Visitation will be held Friday, July 26 from 2:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. Greenlawn Southwest.
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Donald E. Scott Jr., 46
January 17, 1951 - January 20, 1951

Donald Eugene Scott Jr. died January 20, 1997 at a San Luis Obsipo hospital at age 46. The family has planned a memorial service to be held Thursday at 5:00 p.m. at the New Life Community Church of the Nazarene in Pismo Beach with Pastor Ron Salsbury officiating.

He was born January 17, 1951 in Bakersfield and had resided on and off in the area since 1969, coming from Bakersfield. He attended drama school in Corvallis, Oklahoma, and worked with a blue grass band and theater around the Bakersfield area during the 1960's. He traveled across the country with various country and rock bands. He loved to play softball and attend bluegrass festivals in Arkansas. He enjoyed playing music with friends and fellow musicians. He enjoyed spending time with family and writing letters to his children during his final days. He loved the bench and playing with his cat. He was of the Methodist faith.

He was preceded in death by his father, Donald Eugene Scott Sr. Survivors include his wife, Bunni of Shell Beach; his mother Lonnie Gates and her husband, Wayne, of Bakersfield; his sons, Jesse Waylon of Hammond, Louisiana and Lonny Joe of Hazen, Nevada; his brother, Matthew Scott and his wife, Deanna, of Grants Pass, Oregon; his sisters, Michele Scott of Bakersfield, Lynice Gates of Bakersfield, and Diedra Wagner of jamestown, North Dakota; and several nieces and nephews.

Memorials may be directed to Hospice of San Luis Obispo County, 1432 Higuera St., San Luis Obispo, California 93401. Arrangements are under the direction of Lady Family Mortaury of Arroyo Grande.
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Harley R. (Scotty) Scott
May 6, 1921 - September 3, 2011

Harley R. (Scotty) Scott, 90, of Oceano, California died on September 3, 2011 in Rockwall, Texas.

He was born in Ringwood, Oklahoma on May 6, 1921 to George B. and Bessie Keesecker Scott. He married Myrtle M. Stewart in 1942 and she preceded him in death in 2002 after 60 years of marriage. A brother and 5 sisters also preceded him in death. Surviving Scotty is a daughter Lynda (Richard) Ross of Kodiak, Alaska and a son George (Elizabeth) Scott of Rockwall, Texas. Also, surviving are six grandchildren, 19 great grandchildren and several nieces and nephews.

Scotty was a veteran of the U.S. Coast Guard and served in WW II in the South Pacific. He was also a lifetime member of the Elks in Oceano. He was an avid golfer. Scotty was a resident of Taft and McKittrick for over 30 years before retiring in Oceano. He owned and operated a Union and a Chevron gas station in McKittrick and later owned and operated the Tidewater Distributorship on Fellows Highway in McKittrick. He later worked and retired from Cal Trans.

A private family ceremony was held after his death.
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Hubert Lee Scott
March 8, 1925 - October 14, 1995

Graveside funeral services and interment will be held Tuesday at 11:00 a.m. for former Taft resident Hubert Lee Scott, 70. The Rev. Sam White, pastor of the New Cuyama Assembly of God, will officiate at the services.

Mr. Scott was born March 8, 1925 In Guthrie, Oklahoma and passed away October 14th at his Bakersfield home. He spent his early years in Oklahoma and received his education there. He enlisted in the U.S. Army and served in the tank corps in the European theater. Following his discharge, he settled in the Los Angeles area and was an insurance agent for AAA of California. He retired in 1987 and moved to Taft and had resided there until recently moving to Bakersfield.

Mr. Scott was preceded in death by is first wife, Jessica Rose Scott, in 1988. He married Dorothy V. Osborn in Bakersfield on June 22, of this year. He is survived by his wife, Dorothy of Bakersfield; his sons, Dale of Carmel, Albert of Louisville, Texas, and Gary of Carlsbad, New Mexico; a daughter, Peggy Viau of Louisville; two brothers, Henry of Tucson, Arizona and Otis of Gurthrie and many grandchildren, nieces, nephews and friends.

Visitation will be at the Taft Funeral Home Monday until 5:00 p.m.
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Ira Wilson Scott "Scotty", 55
June 13, 1903 - August 7, 1997

Graveside services were held today, Monday August 11th, at West Side District Cemetery for longtime Taft resident Ira Wilson Scott, 94, who passed away in Bakersfield on August 7, 1997. Although he resided in Bakersfield for the past five years, he lived in Taft for 55 years making numerous friends and acquaintances.

Scotty was born June 13, 1903, in St. James, Missouri. He was employed by Railway Express for a short time before arriving in Taft in 1925 to work in the oilfields. In 1930 he moved to San Francisco to learn the tade of a barber, and it was there that he met and married Alice, his wife of 64 years. In early 1942 he returned to Taft, working as a barber first at Gardner Field during World War II, and later at the Westside Barbara Shop where he spent many years. After reitrement he purchased Frank's Barber Shop and returned to his trade for a few years before a second and final reitrement.

Survivors include his wife, Alice, of Bakersfield; son and daughter-in-law Gary and Wanda Scott, of Bakersfield; son Gordon Scott of Morro Bay; grandchildren Gary Scott, Jr., Sherry Taylor, Michael Scott , Shelly Scott, and Shannon Scott; great grandchildren Christina Scott, Aaron Taylor, Ashley Taylor, Kayla Scott, and Heather Sanderson; sisters Letta Wood, Mary Mitchell, and Cora Brendel of Missouri; nephew Joseph Scott of Taft, niece Ashley Young of Bakersfield, and other nieces and nephews.

Words alone can never adequately sum up the life of any person, and those who knew him will find the world has become a little colder with his passing.
A cheerfuland outgoing man,
he usually wore a grin
and had a friendly word for all
that came from deep within;
To those in need he'd lend a hand
and gave from what he had;
Most knew him just as "Scott"
but I was proud to call him Dad.

The arrangements were under the direction of the Erickson & Brown Funeral Home.
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John Charles Scott
October 18, 1950 - October 19, 2012

John was born in Taft, California to Marion "Joe" Scott and Alma MacKinzie Scott.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his sister, Ninalee Wade.

John graduated from Taft Union High School in 1969 and proudly served his country with the United StatesArmy from 1969 and proudly served his country with the United States Army from 1969 to 1971. He spent his career working in the Westside oilfields for various oilfield contractors. John was very patriotic, extremely opinionated and definitely one-of-a-kind. He loved backpacking, taking pictures, making butterscotch pies for friends and family and was an avid history buff. He will be dearly missed.

John is survived by his brother, Jack Scott of Alturas; nieces and nephews. Scott and Renae Wade of Bakersfield, Jolene and Jon Selby of Helena, Montana, Stacey Wade of Bakersfield, Holly and Darrell Melton of Taft and Bryon Scott of Sparks, Nevada; and many great-nieces, nephews and cousins. John is also survived by his close friends, Danny Baker, Tim and Lisa Hill and Jack and Pat Reedy. Here's to John Wand the High Sierra!

The arrangements are under the direction of the Erickson & Brown Funeral Home. To convey online condolences please visit www.EricksonAndBrown.com.
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Joseph Milton Scott, 80
October 29, 1926 - December 13, 2006

Joseph Milton Scott (affectionately known as "Scotty") passed away on December 13th after suffering from a prolonged respiratory illness and congestive heart failure. He was born in Fellows, California on October 29th, 1926 to Joseph A. Scott and Beulah (Jones) Scott. He was a longtime resident of Taft and he graduated from Taft Union High School. He proudly served our country in both the Army and the Merchant Marines during both WWII and the Korean War. Joe was a general contractor until he was well into his seventies and loved working with his hands. He was a civilian pilot, rode motorcycles, and was an avid fisherman. He loved helping others and was an active member of the Taft Museum.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his sister Virginia (Scott, Brock) Rauch, and first wife, Audrey Walker.

He was united in marriage to Audrey Walker in 1959 and Gloria Constable in 1965. He leaves behind his daughter Lori (Joe) Scott (Rice) and granddaughter Jennifer Shakespeare of Juneau, Alaska; stepdaughter Phyllis Rothwell of Arlington, Washington; stepdaughter Kerin (Jason) Wilson of Juneau, Alaska; stepson Robert (Jeanette) Geiger of Canoga Park, California; stepson Kenneth (Jan) Geiger of Union City, California; cousin Gary (Wanda) Scott of Bakersfield, California; niece Dayle (Carlos) Lopez of Upland, California; niece Bonnie Brock and her son Josh of San Bernadino, California; nephew David Brock of Claremont, California; nephew Jim Brock of Claremont, California; his beloved dogs Patrick and Chelsea, as well as many relatives in Missouri. He will be greatly missed by his family and numerous friends.

There will be a Celebration of Life ceremony at his home at 123 Lierly Ave., Taft, California on January 6th, 2007 at 2:00 p.m. Cards and condolences can be sent to the aforementioned address c/o Lori Scott.
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Marine A. Scott, 83
April 7, 1918 - January 22, 2002

Graveside funeral services will be held in Lakewood Memorial Park in Hughson on Friday at 3:00 p.m. for Taft resident, Marine A. Scott, 83.

Mrs. Scott was born in Konawa, Oklahoma on April 7, 1918 and passed away in a Bakersfield Hospital on January 22, 2002. Mrs. Scott had lived in Taft for many years.

She is survived by her seven children and several grandchildren, many great and great great grandchildren.

Friends are invited to pay their respect on Thursday from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m., at the Erickson and Brown Funeral Home.
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Myrtle Scott, 76
August 4, 1925 - March 7, 2002

Myrtle Scott, 76 of Oceano passed away Thursday, March 7, 2002 at a San Luis Obispo Hospital. At her request, no service will be held.

Mrs. Scott was born August 4, 1925, in Poland, Ohio. She was a resident of Oceano for 14 years and prior to that had resided in the Taft area from 1952 to 1988. A wonderful housewife and mother. Mrs. Scott enjoyed cooking, sewing, and crafts. Last November a surprised celebration of her and her husband's 60th wedding anniversary was held in Bakersfield with all of her family.

She is survived by her husband H.R. "Scotty" Scott of Oceano, her son George C. Scott of Bakersfield; her daughter, Lynda R. Ross of Kodiak Alaska, six grandchildren, 12 great grandchildren and several nieces and nephews.

Mrs. Scott was preceded in death by one sister and two brothers.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in her name to your favorite charity. Arrangements are under the directions of Marshall-Spoo Sunset Funeral Chapel in Grover-Beach.
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Peggy Joyce Scott
October 23, 1932 - December 24, 2011

A memorial service will be held in the Erickson & Brown Funeral Home Chapel on Saturday, December 31, 2011, at 10:00 a.m. for Taft resident, Peggy Joyce Scott, 79. Mrs. Scott was born on October 23, 1932 in Leachville, Arkansas and passed away in Taft on December 24, 2011.

She had lived on the West side for the last 55 years and during that time she served as President of the Desk and Derrick organization and was a 33 year member of Al-Anon. Preceding her retirement from Southern California Gas Co. she had been employed with them for 25 years. Most importantly she had a special relationship with God.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Jesse and Nadine Langley. Mrs. Scott is survived by her husband of 58 years, Murray Scott of Taft; her children and their spouses, Greg and Allisa Scott of Boston, Massachusetts, Martin and Donna Scott and Russ and Deb Scott all of Taft; her sisters, Myra Sealy of Taft and Lucille Hanebrink of Missouri; 13 grandchildren; seven great grandchildren; and a host of nieces and nephews.

There are no visitation hours scheduled and the arrangements are under the direction of the Erickson & Brown Funeral Home. To convey condolences or sign and online registry, please visit www.EricksonAndBrown.com
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Ed Scripps
August 9, 1941 - March 27, 2013

Los Altos, California resident Ed Scripps passed away on March 27 at the age of 71 after a long struggle with residual effects of a major stroke in 2005 that resulted in a fall at this home. Born in Seattle on August 9, 1941, Ed spent his childhood in Atherton, California, attended Menlo-Atherton High School, from which he graduated in 1959. He went on to college in Neuchatel, Switzerland, and lived overseas where he enjoyed travel, living as a bon-vivant driving his MG Midget across the Riviera and making new friends. Ed eventually settled back in the Bay Area to start his professional career. Ed worked in the newspaper industry, holding various posts in the family's Scripps League Newspapers chain, including as publisher of daily and weekly community newspapers in Taft, California. (Daily Midway Driller), and Hamilton, Montana. (The Ravalli Republic.) When Scripps League Newspapers was acquired, Ed took on new challenges, publishing titles including the Bishop, California, Inyo California Inyo-Register, the Mammoth Lakes, California, Mammoth Mountain News, and the Maui bulletin.

At home, Ed married his first wife Bonnie, with whom he remains friends. Together they raised their son and daughter James and Joanna in Los Altos. Ed remarried in 1999 after a long courtship with Becky, whom he met through mutual friends. Ed and Becky retired in 1999 and answered the call of adventure, taking to blue-water cruising aboard their 46-foot Hylas sloop "Seasilk." Their ocean travels took them up and down the west coast of North America, from the serene fog-drenched waters of the Puget Sound to the friendly cruising grounds of Mexico. Ed was at his happiest at the helm of the Sausalito, California based yacht with Becky by his side. When the challenges of frail health made sailing more difficult, Ed and Becky started spending more time at their home in Tahoe City on Lake Tahoe's north shore. There they enjoyed the company of their children and grandchildren, as well as a steady stream of family and friends. They shared the beauty of the high sierra with the people they love. Ed will always be remembered as someone with a big heart and quick laugh who lived life on his own terms. From the friends with whom he would gathered on Sunday afternoon at Rosati's (Zots") under the "Tree of Knowledge," to his colleagues in the newspaper industry, everyone knew Ed as a true original.

Ed is survived by wife Becky; son and daughter James Scripps and Joanna Lovera (Otto); stepchildren Brian O'Boyle and Kathy Reehl; grandchildren Lauren and Andrew Scripps, Ayla Lovera, Kira and James Reehl, and Daniel Lindevald; brother and sister Barry (Gail) and Stephanie Scripps; mother Betty Knight Scripps, and many nieces and nephews.

A celebration of Ed's life will be held April 4th at 2:00 p.m. at the University Club, 3277 Miranda Ave., in Palo Alto. All friends are welcome to come and share stories of their time with Ed. In lieu of flowers, the family requests generous donations in Ed's name to Reach Program Foothill Foundation, 12345 El Monte, Los Altos Hills, California 94022. Ed formed special bonds and made amazing progress in the supportive, therapeutic community.
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Kenneth (Ken) Edwin Scudder
April 24, 1950 - June 10, 2012

Ken Scudder was born April 24, 1950 in Springfield, Vermont. His life began as a mischievous boy, followed by becoming a brave young solider for the United States Army in 1969. Ken loved to ride motorcycles in the 1970's and became a father and family man in 1976. He worked hard and selflessly for his family for many years and adored his wife and best friend, Lynn.

Ken enjoyed surfing and had a s strong affection and respect for animals, rescuing every injured animal that crossed his path, big or small. He was truly a cowboy at heart, roping, riding and tending to his horses in his free time. Ken deeply loved the Lord and trusted him in all things. We know that he has now heard the words: Well done thy good and faithful servant. Son, brother, husband, father and friend, our lives will never be the same. We well cherish your memory, and we will carry your humble, kind, simple ways in our hearts and actions until we are reunited.

Ken is preceded in death by his father, Cecil Scudder. He is survived by his loving children Iczaa, Kamille, Jayleigh, Sayler and Taryn, close family friend Cheryl Miller, as well as extended family and friends.

A memorial service will be held at Grace Baptist Church, 2550 Jewetta Ave., Bakersfield, California at 11:00 a.m. on June 18th, 2012 with lunch to follow. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Ken's name to the nonprofit horse rescue facility close to his heart: Bit O' Heaven Ranch, 13453 Olen Ave. Bakersfield, California.
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Frank [Jack] Seale, 68
January 29, 1933 - July 27, 2001

Graveside funeral services will be held in the West Side District Cemetery on Thursday afternoon at 1:00 p.m. for longtime Taft resident, Frank [Jack] Seale, 68.

Mr. Seale was born in Napavine, Washington on January 29, 1933 and passed away in Taft on July 27, 2001. Mr. Seale came to Taft in 1923. He served in the U.S. Navy during the Korean Conflict and later served his country as a member of the U.S. Air Force from January 1955 to January 1959. Mr. Seale was proud to work in the oilfields like his father. Mr. Seale especially enjoyed fishing with his son, Winfred.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Lon and Tealy Seale and his brother, J. Seale in 1991. His survivors include his wife, Barbara Seale of Taft; his children, Christina Seale of Shafter, Winfred Seale of Taft and Jackie Vanderhoff of Taft; his grandchildren, Aaron and David Seale and J.D. and Jordan Vanderhoff; his brother and his wife, Calvin and Roberta Seale of San Luis Obispo; his sister, Mary Gordanier of Sacramento and many nieces and nephews.

There are no visitation hours scheduled and the arrangements are under the direction of the Erickson & Brown Funeral Home.
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Ewing H."Toby" Sears
April 30, 1922 - September 20, 2003

Ewing H. "Toby" H. Sears, a native of Kern County and a long time resident of Bakersfield, died on September 20, 2003. Toby was born on April 30, 1922, in Maricopa to E.H. and Lee M. Hogan Sears. Toby was an only child with 54 first cousins, many of who were like siblings to him.

He graduated from Maricopa High School in 1940. Toby served in the service during World War II. He attended Taft College, Bakersfield College and graduated from College of The Pacific in June 1950.

He married Eunice Nuoffer on June 24, 1950. They made their residence in Bakersfield where Toby began his career in Insurance. He was associated with Bill Thompson, Bob Newell, later became partners with Morris Watson, and eventually established his own successful independent agency on Oak Street, which is now Jake's Tex Mex. Toby was known as an excellent insurance agent, one that could be depended on in time of need. This career extended over 30 years, and at one time he was the top agency in the San Joaquin Valley for Fireman's Fund. Toby loved and was committed to his clients. After his retirement, he stayed busy with his rental properties. Although work was his first love, certainly hunting was his second. Many times he and his friends would reminisce about "big dove shoots," and how they hiked all day for the "big" covey of quail. Later in his hunting career, he enjoyed hunting wild boar. He also enjoyed giving out gifts of honey and Jake's cookies. He was always befriending people and encouraging them to continue their education.

Toby is survived by daughters, Elaine Gibbins and husband Mel, Betty Miller and husband, Tom; and granddaughters, Emily Miller and Allison Gibbins.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations may be made to AA, Optimal Hospice, or the church or charity of your choice.

Visitation will be held Friday, September 26, 2003, 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Hillcrest Memorial Park. Family Interment will be Saturday, September 27th, 9:00 a.m. A Memorial service will be held Saturday, September 27, 11:00 a.m. at the First Baptist Church, 4600 Stockdale Highway, Bakersfield.
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Dr. Dale Kenneth Sechrest
April 22, 1939 - November 12, 2011

Dr. Dale Kenneth Sechrest, age 72, Professor Emeritus of Criminal Justice at California State San Bernardino and resident of Redlands, California, passed away peacefully due to complications from cancer at Loma Linda Hospital on Saturday, November 12th, 2011.

Dale was born in Taft, California on April 22nd, 1939. Though an injury in his youth cost him an eye, as well as many opportunities in life, he spent the rest of his life working hard to create his own opportunities. He enlisted in the Army on July 7th, 1957, and served during the Cold War monitoring Soviet radio and missile activity from Turkey as a Morse radio intercept operator. He used the G.I. Bill to help pay his way through college and he earned his Doctorate in Criminology from the University of California, Berkeley, in 1974. Dale went on to work in numerous research projects in the field of corrections, publish a plethora of articles and books on the subject of criminology and teach as a professor of criminal justice for 27 years, including 21 with Cal State San Bernardino where he became Professor Emeritus.

Amonbg all his great accomplishments as a scholar and professor, it should be noted that Dale Sechrest leaves behind a wealth of family, friends, and colleagues who will remember his even more for his energy, passion, kindness, and formidable sense of humor, than they will for his impressive body of work. Dale never once met a stranger, because everyone was already his friend.

Dale is survived by his three children, Stephanie Conner, Alan Sechrest, and David Sechrest; his six grandchildren, Devon Bott, Dylan Conner, Ellen Holmes, Alison Sechrest, Austin Sechrest, and Nathan Sechrest; and one great grandchild, Alaina Conner. He is also survived by is nephews, Donald Sechrest Jr., and Jaye Sechrest, as well as his ex-wife, Judy Sechrest. He was preceded in death by his mother Ellen Peahl; his brother, Donald Sechrest; and his ex-wife, Terry White.

Services will be held at Cortner Chapel, 221 Brookside Avenue, Redlands, with a viewing at 10:00 a.m. and service at 11:00. Reception will follow the service at the Hilton GArden Inn, 1755 South Waterman Avenue, San Bernardino. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that contributions be made to the Dale Sechrest Fund for Excellence in Criminal Justince. Please send our tax-deductible contribution (tax ID 45-2255077) to: The CSUSB Philanthropic Foundation, 5500 University Parkway, SanBernardino, California 92407 In the memo section, be sure to write; "Dale Sechrest Fund for Excellence in Criminal Justince".

For additional information, contact Enrique Gonzalez_Salgado (909) 537-7363 or [email protected].
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James Orville Selby
June 1, 1930 - October 30, 2006

Services were held on Thursday, November 2, 2006 at 10:00 a.m. at the Oakridge Baptist Church in Boswell, Oklahoma for James Orville Selby. James Orville Selby was born June 1, 1930 and passed away October 30, 2006 in Soper, Oklahoma after a battle with cancer.

Preceded in death were his parents and grandson, Timothy Preston White, Jr. Jim worked for Getty Oil Company until his retirement in 1985. He was a member of the New Hope Temple in Taft for years. He loved being around his family, loved singing and loved working in his garden.

Jim is survived by wife of 57 years, June Selby: his sister Veta Bonds of Boswell; daughters, Vickie and Dan Bohannon of Modesto, Debbie and Steve Martinez of Taft and Cathy and Tim Healy of Taft; and Tim Healy of Taft; son, Rick and Vickie Selby of Boswell. Grandchildren, Jennifer and Demarcus McCloud, Cory and Debbie Bohannon and Brian and Wendy Bohannon of Modesto, Shelly Reynolds, Missy and Donnie Williams, Ryan and Marie Ballard, Alissa and Bill Holland, Stacy and Mike Lackey and Candace and Matt Borrecco of Taft, Lacey and Matte Beare of Taft, Sean Healy of Taft and Lynzie Healy of Taft. Great-grandchildren; Cheyene, Garrett and Macayla Reynolds, Mariah and Braden Holland, Seth Lackey, Payton Bohannah, Taylor Keyley Williams of Oklahoma. Niece; Linda and Jim Walsh and their children of Taft.

All arrangements are under the care of Prater-Lampton-Mills and Coffee Funeral Home. The family wishes donations to be made in memory of Jim to the American Cancer Society.
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Phil Selby
March 10, 1970 - June 27, 1997

Memorial services were held on Monday June 30, 1997 at 10:00 a.m. at the Cuyama Community Methodist Church in New Cuyama for Cuyama Valley resident Phil Selby, 80. Mr. Selby passed from this life on June 27, 1997 at his Cuyama Valley home.

Phil was born on March 10, 1917 on Selby Ranch in the Santa Ana Valley, Ventura County. He was born the youngest son of John Lloyd Sellby and Zora Percy Selby, who were both members of prominent Ventura County pioneer families. After graduating from Nordhoff High in 1935, Mr. Selby served in the Merchant Marines in WW II. He was a U.S. Deputy Marshall and rode the rodeo circut before continuing his earlier ranching career.

Phil is survived by his wife of 51 years, Betty (Elizabeth)Badger Selby: two daughters, Shannon Fletcher of Big Cabin, Oklahoma, and Phyllis of Newport, Oregon; three sons, Philip of Pinedale, Wyoming, Edward of San Francisco and Jon of Helena,Montana; 11 grandchildren. Also surviving are his three sisters, Mildred Babe Selby Smith, Barbara Nye and Margaret Bryee.

He was preceded in death by his daughter Sharon and his brothers, Jack and Jim Selby.
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Amie S. Self
February 23, 1913 - February 15, 1997

Graveside services will be held Wednesday at 2:00 p.m. in the West Side District Cemetery for Amie Sylvia Self, 83.

Mrs. Self was born in Bethel, Oklahoma on February 23, 1913 and passed away on February 15, 1997 in Taft. She married Joe Self on August 12, 1932 in Oklahoma and they enjoyed being together for 64 years, the passed 30 years in Taft.

She is survived by her husband, Joe Self; two daughters, Sylvia Wood and Belvia Self of Taft; three sons, Billy Joe of Taft and J. W. Self of Lawson, Oklahoma and Jimmy Self of Denver, Colorado; 18 grandchildren, 16 great grandchildren; and one great-great grandchild.

All of her grandchildren and great grandchildren have requested the honor of being her pallbearers. Howard Gay of the First Southern Baptist Church will officiate, with the assistance of Bob Self, Mrs. Selfs' grandson. Services have been entrusted to the Taft Funeral Home.
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Alisa Leane Sell
December 29, 1964 - March 29, 2011

Chapel funeral services will be held in the Erickson & Brown Funeral Home Chapel on Monday, April 4, 2011 at 1:00 p.m. for Taft resident, Alisa Leane Sell, 46. Burial will follow in the West Side District Cemetery. Rev. Tommy McWhorter will officiate.

Mrs. Sell was born in Wasco on December 29, 1964. and passed away in Bakersfield on March 29, 2011. She had lived her life in Kern County and graduated from Arvin High School in 1983. Mrs. Sell was a member of Gateway Temple.

Mrs. Sell is survived by her husband, Sherman Sell; her son, Sherman "Buddy" Sell; her daughter and her husband, Crystal and Clinton Harris; her parents, Gail and Teddy Reaves; her brothers and their spouses, Jeffrey and Tina Reaves and Teddy, Jr. and Tammy Reaves; her sister and her husband, Kimberly and William Hattabaugh; her grandchildren, Conner and Kylie Harris, Braxton Sell and one on the way; many nieces respects on Sunday from 3:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at the Erickson & Brown Funeral Home. www.EricksonAndBrown.com
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Fuamatala Sesepasara
September 5, 1933 - January 10, 2004

Chapel services will be held Saturday, January 17, 2004, 10:30 a.m. at West Side Family Mortuary, 1150 4th Street, Taft, California for Fuamatala Sesepasara. Officiating will be Pastor Mefi Nuna of the First Samoan Assembly of God Church. Visitation for Mrs. Sesepasara will be Saturday, January 17, 2004 from 9:00 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. at West Side Family Mortuary, Taft, California. A luncheon will follow at 713 Tyler Street, Taft, California Contact #(661) 763-1932. Services in Honolulu, Hawaii will be held on Friday, January 23, 2004 at Mililani Mortuary Downtown, interment will be immediately there after at Punchbowl Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Honolulu, Hawaii. Contact # (808) 668-7437.

Fuamatala Seiuli Sesepasara was born in American Samoa to Soefeni and Mui Seiuli on September 5, 1933 and passed away January 10, 2004 in Taft, California.

Mrs. Sesepasara is survived by sister Alisi Leaana of Nua, Steetago American Samoa, Daughters Kerina (Irvin) Hendrix of Honolulu, Hawaii, Lisa Whittington of Castro Valley, California; Lisa Sesepasara of Honolulu, Hawaii, Dace (Martin) Teregeyo of Saipan, Cindy (Angelo) Charbonier of North Carolina, Annabelle (Ioane) Savaii of Taft, California, Elizabeth (Tom) Koytys of Honolulu, Hawaii, sons Tasi (Malel) of North Carolina, Sofeni (Mariana) of Taft, California, Taaloga (Tina) of Honolulu, Hawaii, Michael, "Big Ben" and Tulisa Jr. of Honolulu, Hawaii, 62 grandchildren, and 18 great grandchildren.

All services are under the care and direction of the West Side Family Mortuary, Taft, California. (661) 763-1594
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Glen W. Sessions, 73
July 17, 1922 - February 29, 1996

Graveside funeral services will be held in the West Side District Cemetery Thursday at 1:00 p.m. for Ventucopa Resident Glen W. Sessions, 73. The Rev. Theodore Wehunt, pastor of the Church of God, will officiate at the services.

Mr. Sessions was born July 17, 1922 in Heber City, Utah, and passed away suddenly at his home February 29, 1996. He was born into one of the largest sheep ranching families in Utah. He received his eduction and formed his early ties to the Mormon Church in Heber City, becoming a deacon in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. As a young man he moved to California and in 1943 joined the Army Air Corps and served during the World War II Normandy Invasion and on the beaches of Anzio, receiving several medals for his courageous service. Mr. Sessions was a carpenter by trade and worked for several construction companies in the West Side oilfields until his retirement.

He was preceded in death by his parents, William Fernando and Mary Irene Carroll Sessions; his first wife, Juanita Sessions in 1969; and his second wife, Carolyn McKoone Sessions in 1983. He is survived by two sisters Laura Dumont and Merle Bennett of Torrance; a niece, Sheila Bennett of Torrance; and many stepchildren, step grandchildren, and friends.

Visitation will be held Wednesday from noon until 5:00 p.m. Golden Rule Services are entrusted to the care of the Bonewell Family of the Taft Funeral Home.
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Donald R. Severe
July 21, 1939 - November 27, 2011

Funeral services are pending at the Erickson & Brown Funeral Home for Donald R. Severe, 72. Mr. Severe passed away in Bakersfield on November 27, 2011.
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Charles Severy
August 19, 1923 - May 26, 2004

Funeral services are pending at he Erickson & Brown Funeral Home for Charles Severy. Mr. Severy passed away May 26, 2004.
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Harry I. Shaffer
August 17, 2008 - January 4, 2008

Graveside funeral services will be held in the West Side District Cemetery on Thursday, January 10, 2008 at 1:00 p.m. Memorial services will be held at the Taft Moose Lodge at 2:00 p.m.

Harry was born in Placentia, California and raised in Orange, California. He married Kathleen Taylor in February of 1952 and together they raised three children in Bakersfield: Theresa, Stephen and Patricia. Harry is survived by his son, Stephen; two daughters, Theresa Shaffer and Patricia Belflower; his grandchildren, Megan, Regina, Aurin, Julie, Glen and Miranda; and his nine great grandchildren; as well as his brothers, Jim Shaffer and Dick Shaffer; and his sisters, Dot and Roberta. Harry worked for Texaco for 36 years and retired in 1990. He served in the U.S. Army from 1952 to 1954. He enjoyed Rving, camping and fishing, bowling and good times with his many friends at the Moose Lodge. He was a longtime member of the Taft Moose Lodge# 1431 and a member of the VFW. Harry will be sorely missed by his children and his beloved dog, Barney. Harry took great pride in his grandchildren and great grandchildren. In lieu of flowers, donations to the Taft Moose Lodge were Harry's wishes. There are no visitation hours scheduled and the arrangements are under the direction of the Erickson & Brown Funeral Home.
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Kathleen R. Shaffer
October 24, 1932 - January 11, 2006

Recitation of the Rosary will be held in the Erickson & Brown Funeral Home Chapel on Thursday, January 12, 2006 at 6:00 p.m. Graveside services will be held in the West Side District Cemetery on Friday, January 13, 2006 at 2:00 p.m.

Kathleen was born and raised in Santa Maria, Cuyama Valley and Taft. She married Harry Shaffer in February of 1952 and together they raised their three children, Theresa, Stephen and Patricia.

Kathleen is survived by her husband, Harry Shaffer; her two daughters, Theresa Colwes and Patricia Bellflower, her son, Stephen Shaffer; her grandchildren, Megan, Regina, Aurin, Julie, Glen and Miranda; her eight great grand children as well as her sister, Evelyn Pence and numerous beloved cousins, nephews and nieces. She was preceded in death by her sister, Georgene Devine and Shirley Patterson; her brother, Johh Taylor and her parents, Mildred Feliz Taylor and George Taylor.

Kathleen enjoyed crafting, RVing, fishing, antiques and cooking. She was a longtime member of the Women of the Moose, Lodge #667 Kathleen loved her children and took great pride in her grandchildren. She will be sorely missed. We love you Mom and Grandma.

There are no visitation hours scheduled and the arrangements are under direction of the Erickson & Brown Funeral Home.
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Richard A. Shaffer
October 2, 1931 - March 1, 2011

Richard, known to his friends and family as "Dick," was born on October 2, 1931 in Placentia, California and raised in Orange County, California. He served in the U.S. Army from 1952 to 1954 where he served in the Korean Conflict. After his service to our country he moved to Taft. There he met the love the of his life, Virginia, and after a one month courtship, they were married on July 3, 1955 and had their three children, Ed, Rick and Cindy. Dick was employed in the oilfields with Belridge Oil and retired from Shell Oil in 1996. After his retirement, Dick spent most of his time playing with his four grandchildren and doing woodwork in his shop in his backyard. He was a longtime member of the West Hills Church of the Nazarene.

Dick was preceded in death by his parents Harry I. Shaffer and Edith Pastorino and his siblings, Florence, Fern, Dot and Harry. Dick is survived by his loving wife of 55 years, Virginia L. Shaffer; his children Ed Shaffer, Rick A., Kathryn and Cindy Shaffer; his grandchildren, Tina and Ron Odom, Tiffany Shaffer, Alysha And MIke Gatley and Shelby Shaffer; his great-grandchildren, Kevin, Bradley and Kaitlyn Odom, Cameron Hamilton and Chance Gately; his brother, Jim Shaffer and his wife, Judy; and his sister, Roberta; many nieces and nephews; and a very special longtime friend, Bill "Rod" Malin.

Because of his love for all children, in lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Bakersfield Ronald McDonald House on his behalf. Funeral Directions are under the direction of the Erickson & Brown Funeral Home. Visitation is scheduled for Sunday, March 6, 2011at the funeral home from 3:00 p.m. until 8:30 p.m. A graveside service will be held on Monday, March 7, 2011 at 11:00 a.m. in the West Side District Cemetery. Family and friends will be gathering at the West Hills Church of the Nazarene following the graveside service. www.EricksonAndBrown.
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Virginia Shaffer
December 16, 1933 - January 22, 2014

Virginia was born on December 16, 1933 in Taft California. After a one month courtship in 1955, she married the love of her life, Dick, and later had three chidren: Ed, Rick and Cindy. Her family was her life and she loved nothing more than being a mother, grandmother, and great grandmother. Virginia enjoyed playing the piano, gardening, praising the Lord, and volunteering her time helping those less fortunate. Along time member of the West Hills Church of the Nazarene, Virginia will be remembered by many as their Sunday school teacher and Preschool teacher. Virginia went to be with the lord on Wednesday, January 22, 2014.

She was preceded in death by her husband of 55 years in 2011. Virginia is survive by her children, Ed Shaffer, Rick and Kathryn Shaffer, and Cindy Shaffer; her grandchildren, Tina and Ron Odom, Tiffany Shaffer, Alysha and Mike Gatley, and Shelby Shaffer; her great grandchildren, Kevin, Tina, Bradley, and Kaitlyn Odom, Cameron Hamilton, Brylee and Hunter Miller, Chance Gatley, and Sara Cummings; and her brother, Ed Norris and his wife, Mary.

In lieu of flowers, Virginia's family requests that random acts of kindness be passed along to others in her memory. Funeral arrangements are under the direction of the Erickson & Brown Funeral Home. Visitation is scheduled for Sunday, January 26, 2014 at the funeral home from 3:00 p.m. until 8:30 p.m. A graveside service will be held on Monday, January 27, 2014 at 11:00 a.m. at the West Side District Cemetery. Family and friends will be gathering at the West Hills Church of the Nazarene following the service. To convey online condolences please visit. www.EricksonAndBrown.com
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Clyde Shaler
July 3, 1922 - September 8, 2003

Funeral services will be held in the Erickson & Brown Funeral Home Chapel on Wednesday afternoon at 2:00 p.m. for Taft native Clyde Shaler, 81. Burial will be in the West Side District Cemetery. Pastor Michael Pollock, associate pastor of the First Baptist Church will officiate.

Mr. Shaler was born to Sherman and Jewel Shaler in Taft on July 3, 1922 and passed away in a Bakersfield hospital on September 8, 2003. He was raised and educated in Taft. He proudly served his country in the U.S. Army Air Corps during World War II. Mr. Shaler worked as a self employed mechanic. He loved HAM radio and operated his own station. W6KIQ. He received several awards for his station's operation.

Mr.Shaler was preceded in death by his wife, Dorothy P. Shaler and his sister, Dorothy L. Shaler. Both ladies passed away in December of 1988. His survivors include his two sons and their wives, Mark and Donna Shaler of Seattle, Washington and Mike and Ellen Shaler of Oakland and his loving companion, Clara Lunsford of Maricopa.

Friends are invited to pay their respects on Tuesday until 8:30 p.m. and again on Wednesday from 9:00 a.m. to service time at the Erickson & Brown Funeral Home.
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Kermit "Jack" Shannon
August 15, 1923 - February 26, 2010

A memorial graveside funeral service will be held in the West Side District Cemetery on Thursday, March 4, 2010 at 11:00 a.m for longtime Taft resident, Kermit "Jack" Shannon, 86. Mr. Shannon was born in El Reno, Oklahoma on August 15, 1923 and passed away in Bakersfield on February 26, 2010.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Lillie Adil Shannon. His survivors include his children and their spouses Pat and Earl Mason of Texas, Mary and Billie Jones of Maricopa, William and Marcie Shannon of Bakersfield, and Tammy and Bill Owens of Taft; his grandchildren, Donna and Ronnie, Robert and John, Josh, Kyle, Devon, and Marissa, Reynita, Evelyn, Anthony, and Richard, Rebecca, Charles and Rodney; and by his 9 great grandchildren.

There are no visitation hours scheduled and the arrangements are under the direction of the Erickson & Brown Funeral Home.
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Marthella [Marty] Sharp, 69
February 25, 1933 - March 12, 2002

Marthella Sharp was born on February 25th 1933 in Tulsa Oklahoma. She passed away on March 12th, 2002 of natural causes.

She is survives by her daughter, Jane Baptista, her two sons; James and Gene Crabaugh, her son in-law Harvey Hill. She is also survived by her grandchildren; Nicole Moore, Whitney and Kelsey Crabaugh, Dwan and Billy Harris, Brandon and Kristy Burton, Stanley Burton, and Anthony Hill. Her Great-grandchildren are Kristen Copeland, Ashley and Joshua Harris, Jaqueline and Joseph Hall, Dylan and Kameron Burton, Tyler, Noland and Zack Hill.

There is no viewing scheduled. The funeral service will be held on Monday, March 18th, 2002 at 10:00 a.m. at the Erickson and Brown Funeral Home.
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Wilma A. Shaver
December 16, 1898 - September 28, 1996

Graveside funeral services will be held Wednesday at 10:30 a.m. in The West Side District Cemetery for Taft resident Wilma A. Shaver, 97. The Rev. Scott Pearson, pastor of the First Baptist Church, will officiate at the services.

Mrs. Shaver was born on December 16, 1898 in Milo, Iowa, and passed away September 28, 1996 in a local hospital. She was a past member of the Order of the Eastern Star, Taft Chapter; White Shrine and Native Daughters.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Amza "Shorty: Shaver in 1964. Mrs. Shaver is survived by a son, James Robert Shaver of Yuma, Arizona; her grandchildren, Darlene Warren and Dian DeRosso, both of Santa Maria, and Mark Shaver of Taft a nephew, Jack Mimzey of Piedra; four great grandchildren; and two great-great grandchildren.

Visitation hours will be Wednesday from 8:30 a.m. until 9:30 a.m. at the Erickson & Brown Funeral Home.
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Jerry W. Shaw
October 2, 1937 - February 12, 2003

Memorial Graveside funeral services will be held in the West Side District Cemetery on Tuesday morning at 10:00 a.m. for long time area resident Jerry W. Shaw, 65.

Mr. Shaw was born in Fort Morgan, Colorado on October 2, 1937 and passed away at his Dustin Acres home on Wednesday, February 12, 2003. Mr. Shaw�s family moved to this area when he was eight years old. He attended Taft Union High School. He was employed as an oil worker and worked for Hale and Son, General Production and Horner Construction, and he retired as a field foreman. Mr. Shaw was a former member of the Elks Club, Petroleum Club and the Taft Motorcycle Club.

He was preceded in death by his parents Fred and Nellie Shaw; his brother, Terry Shaw and nephew, Brian Shaw.

His survivors include his wife of 48 years, Velta Shaw of Dustin Acres; his son and his wife, Fred and Cheri Shaw of Dustin Acres; his daughter and her husband, Cynthia and Brian Vaughn of Taft; his grandchildren, Levi Weldon Shaw of Dustin Acres and Brittany Evans of Taft; his sister Delores Joan Headley of Tehachapi and many nieces and nephews.

No visitations hours are scheduled and the services are under the direction of the Erickson & Brown Funeral Home.
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Nellie M. Shaw
September 3, 1921 - November 25, 2001

Graveside memorial services will be held in the West Side District Cemetery on Thursday afternoon at 2:00 p.m. for Nelllie M Shaw, 80. Pastor Craig Pickle of the Church of the Nazarene in Tehachapi will officiate.

Mrs. Shaw was born in Las Vegas, Nevada on September 3, 1921 and passed away in Bakersfield November 25, 2001. She moved to Fellows 52 years ago and worked as a cook at the C.W.O.D. Cookhouse. In later years she worked as a beautician at Alice's Beauty Shop. Mrs. Shaw moved to Tehachapi about two years ago.

Her survivors include her son and his wife, Jerry W. and Velta M. Shaw of Taft; her daughter and her husband, Dolores J. and Bob H. Headley of Tehachapi; her grandchildren, Fred W. Shaw II and his wife, Cheri; Cynthia Evans, Nellie M. Habberfield and Lowell R. Childers; her great grandchildren, Levi Shaw, Brittany Evans, Nathan Habberfield, Nicole Habberfield and Yvonne Skidgel; her sisters, Georgie Million of Missouri, Gracie Valone of Rochester, New York and Ruby of South Dakota and by her brother, A.L. Webster of Missouri.

No visitation hours have been scheduled and the services are under the direction of the Erickson & Brown Funeral Home.
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Mary Shelburne
September 6, 1924 - February 26, 1925
Child Passes at Shelburne Home in Taft

Mary E. Shelburne, second daughter of Mr. and Mrs. R.A. Shelbourne, passed away at the family home on North Street last night, at the age of six months. The little one has been ailing since her birth.

Funeral services will be held at the Taft Undertaking Company Parlors tomorrow morning at 9:00 o'clock and interment will take place in Union Cemetery in Bakersfield.

Surviving the child are her parents and an older sister, Harriet, and other relatives living in Taft.
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Dessie Pearl Shelby
February 28, 1914 – June 29, 2003

Graveside funeral services will be held in the West Side District Cemetery on Thursday morning at 10:00 a.m.for longtime Westside resident, Dessie Pearl Shelby, 89. Pastor Bill LeBarron of Community Christian Fellowship will officiate the services.

Mrs. Shelby was born in Purman, Missouri on February 28, 1914 and passed away in a local nursing home in Taft on June 29, 2003. Mrs. Shelby moved from Missouri to Fellows in 1944 and in 1946 she moved to Maricopa. She lived in Maricopa until 1994 when she moved to Taft. While living in Maricopa she was a member of Maricopa Congregational Church. After moving to Taft she attended Community Christian Fellowship. Mrs. Shelby worked for many years as a cafeteria worker for Maricopa School District. She was dedicated to her job and the children she served. She was a member of the Women�s Club.

Mrs. Shelby was preceded in death by her husband, Guy E. Shelby, in October of 1958 and by her son, Beryl Shelby, in November of 1999. Her survivors include her sons, Kenneth and his wife Birda Shelby and Meryl Shelby all of Taft; her grandchildren, Dennis Shelby of Yuma, Arizona, Allen Shelby of Clovis, Kenny Shelby, Cherie Layton both of Taft, Nicholas Shelby of Louisiana, Patricia Stuntebeck of Maricopa and David Shelby of Santa Maria; her great grandchildren, Allison and Lindsay Shelby of Yuma, Arizona, Cameron and Brandt Shelby of Clovis, Brandi and Luke Shelby of Taft, Heather and Alysha Layton of Taft, and Josh and Kasey Stuntebeck of Maricopa.

Friends are invited to pay their respects on Wednesday from 3:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at the Erickson & Brown Funeral Home.
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Meryl Shelby
December 31, 1941 - May 19, 2012

Graveside funeral services were held in the West Side District Cemetery on Friday, May 25, 2012 at 11:00 a.m. for longtime Kern County resident, George Meryl Shelby, 70. Pastor Bill LeBarron officiated at the services.

Mr. Shelby was born to Guy and Dessie Shelby on December 31, 1941 in Doniphan, Missouri and passed away in his Taft home on May 19, 2012. In 1944 he and his family moved to Fellows and in 1946 they moved to the Havenstrite Oil Lease, east of Maricopa. Mr. Shelby had been employed by ARCO for 30 years, retiring in 1992.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his twin brother, Beryl Shelby and his sister-in-law, Birda Shelby. Mr. Shelby is survived by his daughter, Tricia Stuntebeck of Maricopa; his son, David B. Shelby; their mother, Cathy Shelby both of Santa Maria; his brother, Kenneth Shelby of Taft; his grandchildren, Josh and Kasey Stuntebeck; his great grandchild, Mackenley Stuntebeck; his nephews, Dennis Shelby and his wife, Judy, Allen Shelby and his wife, Toni, Kenny Shelby and Nicholas Shelby; his niece, Cherie Layton and her husband, Blake; his great nieces and nephews, Brandi, Luke, Alison, Lindsay, Cameron and Brandt.

To convey condolences or sign an online registry, please visit www.EricksonAndBrown.com Beryl and Meryl are together again.
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Virginia Shelton
November 13, 1922 - February 5, 2003

Chapel services will be held on Thursday, February 11, 2003 at 1:00 p.m. at the West Side Family Mortuary for longtime Taft resident, Virginia Frances Shelton. Pastor Paul Wilson will officiate.

Virginia was born on November 1, 1922 to Fred and Imogene Shelton in Carnegie, Oklahoma and she went to be with the Lord on February 5, 2003 in Bakersfield, California at the age of 80. Virginia married her husband of 52 years, Willie E. Shelton on April 2,1950 in Tulare, California. The later moved to Taft where they built their lives together. She loved to go to church and was a very active member of Trinity Southern Baptist Church. In her earlier years she enjoyed making latch hook throw rugs. She loved the coast or the mountains with her family. While her sons were growing up she attended all their sports games even if it meant she had to sit in the cold rain.

Survivors include her loving husband, Willie "Bill" Shelton of Taft; her son, Kenneth Eddy and his wife Joan of Bakersfield; daughters, Joyce Martin and her husband Bill of Hanford, California and Donna Boyles of Cushing, Oklahoma; sisters, June Carrier of Bakersfield and Pearl Jones of Madera, California; brother, Louis Shelton, also of Madera, California; daughter-in-law, Maureen Eddy of Reno, Nevada; 9 grandchildren; 19 great grandchildren and 2 great-great grandchildren. She is preceded in death by her son, Raymond Floyd Eddy in 1994, by her great grandson, William Joseph Martin in 1999 and by her great-grandson, Donovan Eddy in 2001. Virginia was a friend to all and will forever be missed.

A public viewing is scheduled for Tuesday, February 11, 2003 from 9:00 a.m. until service time. All funeral arrangements are entrusted through West Side Family Mortuary. For Additional funeral information please contact West Side Family Mortuary. (661) 765 -1594
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Willie "Bill" Earl Shelton
February 10, 1923 - December 10, 2011

Willie "Bill" Earl Shelton was born on February 10, 1923 at his home in Caddo County, Oklahoma, between Carnegie and Fort Smith. He died December 10, 2011 at Bakersfield, California. He was the 11th child born to Mark "Mack" Shelton and Martha Caroline Dees Shelton. His formative years were spent there before the family moved to Earlimart in central California during the Dust Bowl era. They were farmers and followed the fruit picking up and down California. Unlike many at that time, Bill was able to attend and graduate from High School in Delano, California.

His thoughtful nature was evident from early youth. As a boy in Oklahoma, Bill had a brush with death when he was struck by lightning. His mother was trying to gather baby chicks so they wouldn't drown, while he jumped up and down on the cement porch yelling for her to get in the house out of the rain. Bill received burns and his clothing was shredded.

He served the duration of World War II as a civilian employee of the U.S. Navy assigned to Mare Island in the Bay area. He was at his residence in Vallejo, California during the explosion at Port Chicago that killed 6 and wounded 31. He both heard and felt the concussion and heat from the explosion.

His many assignments during that time included the design and construction of a device to prevent anti-aircraft guns from firing while pointed toward their own ship. It was referred to a "stop block".

After leaving the Navy, he worked many jobs, including farming and driving a Taxi. In 1952 Bill joined the Southern California Gas Company, working all over California as an oiler, plant operator, pipeline crewman, welder, cathodic protection and volunteer lifeguard at the company pool. Southern California Gas sent him to Los Angeles in 1971 for repairs after the large earthquake. He retired as a supervisor in 1985.

In 1950, while working in Tulare, California Bill met Virginia Frances Shelton Eddy and they married soon after. Her three children from a previous marriage, Joyce, Raymond and Kenneith Eddy always considered him their loving father and Bill raised them as if they were his very own. Virginia suffered a major stroke in 1967 and Bill spent the rest of Virginia's life caring for her. She passed away in 2003.

Bill married Virginia Kelley in October 2004. Virginia passed away in January 2011.

He was preceded in death by his first wife, Phyllis, second wife Virginia, third wife Virginia, his parents, all of his siblings and their spouses, his daughter and son-in-law Bill and Joyce Martin, son Raymond Eddy, grandson, Billy Martin, and great-grandson Donovan Eddy. Bill is survived by his son and daughter-in-law Kenneth and Joan Eddy, daughter-in-law Maureen Eddy, daughter and son-in-law Maureen Eddy, daughter and son-in-law Donna Ronnie Boyle, 9 grandchildren, 22 great grandchildren, 11 great-great grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews.

Bill was a long time member of the Trinity Southern Baptist Church in Taft. He loved to play his guitar and piano as he sang many different types of songs. His great heart and loving nature meant Bill was always ready to help others. After the death of a beloved nephew, he sought to bring the family together for a moment of healing. One family member tells this story. Bill took all of us to the mountains above Avenal in May of '65 about a week after Jody was killed. He thought it would be good for us and it was. Bill was always special to me and Craig. Lord I'm going to miss him. Richard Carrier, Nephew.

A viewing will be held on Wednesday, December 14, from 3:00 to 7:00 p.m. at the West Side Memorial Services. Funeral Services will be held on Thursday, December 15, 2011, at 1150 4th Street, Taft, California. Graveside following services at the West Side District Cemetery.
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William Shepherd, 82
March 8, 1915 - September 25, 1997

Graveside funeral services will be held in the West Side District Cemetery on Thursday afternoon at 3:00 p.m. for William Shepherd, 82. Rev. David Daniel, pastor of the Calvary Temple Assembly of God, will officiate at the services.

Mr. Shepherd was born in Newark, Ohio on March 8, 1915 and passed away in a Lancaster hospital on September 25, 1997. He was a member of the Armed Forces in the Pacific Theater during World War II, and received two Bronze Stars and other medals. Mr. Shepherd moved to Taft in 1951 and went to work for Richfield Oil Company. He then moved to Boron and went to work for Edwards Air Force Base until his retirement.

Mr. Shepherd was preceded in death by his wife, Lorene; his son Frank; and a step-son, Don Jameson. Survivors include his grandchidren and their families. Kelly and Jerry Sullivan of Bakersfield; Doug Jameson, Mary Jameson, Brian and Carrie Jameson and Barry Jameson all of Taft; Nicole Shepherd of Pamona; and Tami Benson of Sacramento; nine great grandchildren; and a daugther-in-law, Anita Jamieson of Taft.

Bill was a loving family man who never missed his families birthdays and Christmas. He will be greatly missed by his family and friends.

No visitation is scheduled. Services are under the direction of the Erickson and Brown Funeral Home.
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Elvis Sheppard
July 3, 1929 - August 23, 2007

Elvis Sheppard passed away August 23rd, 2007 after a short illness. Elvis was born in Oklahoma, July 3rd, 1929 to mother Vernie Morris and father Elmer Sheppard. He moved to Taft in 1970 where he raised his two daughters. He worked for the City of Taft until he retired in 1991 to become a full time Grandfather.

Elvis was preceded in death by his parents Vernie Morris and Elmer Sheppard, brothers Elmer and Hershel Sheppard, sister Bertha Fuller, daughter Judy Sheppard, and his granddaughter Jennifer Cash. He is survived by Kathryn Sheppard, brothers Donald and Bobby Sheppard, sister June Nelson, daughter Becky Cox, grandchildren Shelly Hawkesworth and husband Michael, Wendy Morgan and husband Justin, Kenny Cox Jr., Amber Cox, Shane Williams, and Dylan Cox., his five great grandchildren and numerous friends. He is dearly loved and will be missed by all of us.

A graveside service will be held at he West Side District Cemetery on August 29th at 10:00 a.m.
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C.A. [Chet] Sherman
December 13, 1921 - January 11, 2003

Graveside funeral services will be held in the West Side District Cemetery on Wednesday, January 15, 2003 at 11:00 a.m. for C. A. [Chet] Sherman, 81.

Mr. Sherman was born in Fellows on December 13, 1921 and passed away in Bakersfield on January 11, 2003. Mr. Sherman was raised in Fellows and graduated from Taft Union High School in 1939. He served his country in the United States Marine Corps during World War II and the Korean Conflict. He worked as a foreman for Chevron for 41 years. He was a member of the Taft-Midway Lodge #426 F& A.M.

Mr. Sherman was preceded in death by his wife, Myra Sherman in 1999. His survivors include his son, John Sherman and his wife, Carolyn of Riverside his daughter Daisy Galletto and her husband Joe of Gilroy; his three grandsons, Trevor Sherman and his wife, Shannon, Augie Galletto and Reno Galletto; his aunt, Sybil Timm of Bakersfield and his sister, Vera Duvall of Taft.

There are no visitation hours scheduled and the arrangements are under the direction of the Erickson and Brown Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers the family has asked that donations be made to the Medical Transportation Project, c/o Taft Soroptomist Club, P. O. Box 333, Taft, California.
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Stephen M. Sherman, 39
October 7, 1958 - August 30, 1997

Memorial services will be held beginning at 9:00 a.m. on Saturday, September 6, 1997 at St. Andrews Episcopal Church in Taft for Stephen M. Sherman, who passed away on August 30, 1997 in UCLA Medical Center in Los Angeles.

He was born October 7, 1958 in Montery, California. Steve moved to Taft in 1989. He had worked as an electrician for many years. He was employed by C J S Electric in Fellows at the time of his death. Steve was an avid bicyclist and was enthusiastic in all his endeavors.

He is survived by Rebecca Lynn and her son Tyler, of Taft; a son Jeremiah of Taft; his daughter, Arletta of Carmel; two brothers, Matt and Tim, of Santa Maria; two sisters, Laura and Dede, of Salinas; and his father, Roger, and stepmother, Chris, of Sweet Home, Oregon.

Those who wish may make contributions in Steve's name to B.A.L. Research, Department of Transplant Surgery, Regents of U.C., 10945 Le Conte Ave., Suite 3132, Los Angeles, 90095. Pierce Brothers Westwood Village Memorial Park is in charge of arrangements.
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Roscoe W. Sherrill, 66
September 3, 1930 - September 28, 1996

Former Taft resident Roscoe W. Sherrill, 66, died September 28, 1996 in Torrance. Mr. Sherrill was born September 3, 1930 in Taft. He graduated from Taft Union High School in 1948 and attended Taft College for two years. He served in the U.S. Army and was a veteran of the Korean Conflict and also served 25 years as a motor officer for the California Highway Patrol and recently retired from the Long Beach Naval Shipyard.

He is survived by his wife, Phyllis; two daughters, Laurie Smith-Gonzales of Rincon Indian Reservation and Kathryn Beck of Casa Grande, Arizona; a son, Steven of Torrance; seven grandchildren; and four great grandchildren.
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Ruby Shields
December 24, 1911 - September 4, 2002

Graveside funeral services will be held in the West Side District Cemetery on Monday morning at 11:00 a.m. for Taft resident, Ruby Christine Shields, 90. Rev. Rick Francis of Maricopa congregational Church will officiate at the services.

Mrs. Shields was born on December 24, 1911 in Gerry, Oklahoma and passed away in Bakersfield on September 4, 2002. She had worked for the Maricopa School District for 15 years and was a member of the PTA and the Maricopa Women's Club and attended Maricopa Congregational Church. She was a wonderful homemaker and candy maker and a great seamstress, having made her daughter's clothes.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Hugh William Shields. Her survivors include her daughter and her husband, Marilyn and Gene Smith of Victorville; her brother and his wife, Donald and Norvella Shields of Maricopa; her sister, Elsie Thulin of San Clelmente; her grandson, Phillip Harwood of Chino; her great grandchild, Taylor Harwood; her step grandson, Mike Warner of Bakersfield; her step grandchildren, Tyler and Victoria Warner; and by some nieces and nephews.

Those who wish to pay their respects may do so on Sunday from 3:00 p.m. until 8:30 p.m. at the Erickson & Brown Funeral Home.
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Velma F. Campbell Shiffler
July 22, 1923 - April 6, 2002

Mrs. Velma Florence Campbell Shiffler, 78 Spotsylvania County, died Saturday April 6, 2002 at Wilburn Gardens. She was born to the late Reed E. and Irene Campbell of Taft California in 1923. She served in the U.S. Navy Waves from 1943-1945. She was a member of the Waves National; Franklin Women's Club and the Business Professional Women's Association. She also served on the board of directors for the Women's Resource Center in Fredericksburg.

She is survived by two daughters; Elisabeth Allaire of Leesburg, Marguerite Shiffler of Fredericksburg, a son George R. Shiffler of Fredsricksburg; a brother Reed E. Campbell of Minneapolis, Minnesota; grandchildren, Tracy Allaire Hudgens, David Miller and great grandchildren, Samuel Hudgens. She is the widow of James Harry Shiffler.

The family will receive friends at Found and Son Funeral Chapel, Fredericksburg on Tuesday April 9, 2002 from 7:00 to 8:30 p.m. A funeral service will be held at Found and Sons Chapel Wednesday April 10, 2002 at 2:00 p.m. with Chaplain Edward Leis Officiating. Internment will follow in Sunset Memorial Gardens.
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Ronald Lynn Shipe, 42
May 22, 1969 - September 2, 2011

Ron passed away at home following a courageous battle with cancer on Friday, September 2, 2011.

Ron was born in Santa Barbara, California on May 22, 1969. He moved to Taft, California when he was in first grade. He attended Taft city Schools and graduated from Taft Union High School in 1987. Ron proudly worked as a Lineman for Braun Electric for 15 years.

Ron loved riding his dirt bikes with his friends and built a 1976 Cafe' Racer. He also enjoyed playing paintball with the Wildcards. Most of all he absolutely loved watching his son and best friend Kelby race at Honolulu Hills Raceway, Taft Arenacross and many other places. He was a member of theTaft Motorcycle Club for 6 years.

Ron is survived by his wife Alisha, his son and favorite person in the world, Kelby Shipe, mother Becky Robbins of Maricopa, California father Ron Sr. and step-mother Linda Shipe of Penns Creek, Pennsylvania, and his favorite aunt Debra Aresco of Carpenteria. He is also survived by his brothers and best friends Jake Stubblefield, Eric Federoff, TC Laffoon, Chris McKamie, Zak Crabb and John Todd and by many, many, many loyal friends and family.

Funeral services for "Shipe" will be held at 4:00 p.m. Friday, September 9th at the Westside Believers Fellowship, 101 Hwy 33, Taft, California. A reception will follow at Taft Petroleum Club, 950 Petroleum Club Road, Taft, California We are asking everyone who owns a motorcycle to ride to church and then to the Petro Club in memory of Ronald. In lieu of flowers, an account has been set up for Kelby Lynn Shipe at Chervron Valley Credit Union. Alisha and Kelby would like to thank all of "Shipes" friends and family for their help and support in the difficult times.
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Loree Waine Short
December 26, 1953 - September 14, 2008

Loree Waine Short passed away on September 14, 2008 at home. She was born in Taft, Californnia on December 26, 1953 to Leola and Leonard Metsch.

She attended Taft Union High School.

Loree was preceded in death by her daughter, Jennifer Phillips; and son, Kelly Short. Loree is survived by son, Kasey Short; granddaughters, Katie and Cassie; son Rafe Short; mother, Leola Metsch; sister, Lee Skidmore and Lynn Snowden; numerous family members and friends who she cherished. She is also survived by her constant companion dog, Bear.

There will be no services per her request. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to your favorite charity.
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Roslyn Shown, 44
December 24, 1952 - March 16, 1997

Roslyn Shown, 44, of Alta Loma died March 16th at her home.

A teacher's aide, she was a native of Los Angeles and a former Taft resident for 17 years.

She is survived by a daughter, Teresa Shown of Alta Loma; her parents, Bertha and Gilbert Cendejas of West Covina; two sisters, Elaine Olivares of La Verne Springs, Colorado; three brothers, Gilbert Cendejas of Glendora, Larry Cendejas of Chino Hills, and Danny Cano of West Covina.

Private family services will be held and interment will also be private.
Draper Mortuary is in charge of the arrangements.
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Billie Gene Shugart
March 14, 1925 - December 24, 1995

Graveside funeral services will be held in the West Side District Cemetery on Thursday afternoon at 2:00 p.m. for long time Valley Acres resident Billie Gene Shugart, 70. Rev. Carl McEnroe will officiate at the services.

Mrs. Shugart was born in Gasoline, Texas on March 14, 1925 and passed away at her residence on December 24. She had lived in Valley Acres for 48 years and was a cook at the White Elephant restaurant for 22 years.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Charles Thomas Shugart, Jr., in 1989 and also by her daughter, Rebecca Louise Brenoel, in 1994. She is survived by two daughters, Kathy and Joslyn Brenoel, both of Bakersfield; her grandchildren Shane, Billy Joe, and Lee-Eric; great grandchild, Erin Shy; and several brothers, sisters, nieces and nephews.

Those who wish to pay their respects may do soon Wednesday until 8:30 p.m. and again on Thursday from 8:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at the Erickson & Brown Funeral Home.
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Virginia May Shugart
March 1, 1931 - November 20, 2004

Graveside services will be held in the West Side District Cemetery on Tuesday afternoon at 1:00 p.m. for former Taft resident, Virginia May Shugart, 73. Bishop Harold W. Pease of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, Taft Ward will officiate.

Mrs. Shugart was born Virginia Flippen in Long Beach on March 1, 1931 and passed away in Las Vegas, Nevada on November 20, 2004. She was raised in Simi Valley and married and enjoyed her family in Taft before retiring to Las Vegas, Nevada ten years ago.

She is survived by her husband of 46 years, Gene Shugart; her brothers, Jim and Chuck LaForce of California; her sons, Michael Shugart and his wife, Christine of Bakersfield; Ted, Dale and Guy Snodgrass of Florida and Missouri and lots of grandchildren that loved her. She will be remembered by those she bowled and played cards with and those who worked alongside her. She will be missed.

There are no visitation hours scheduled and the services are under the direction of the Erickson & Brown Funeral Home.
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Charlene Kathryne Shumate
December 23, 1935 - January 31, 2004

Charlene Shumate passed January 31, 2004 in a Bakersfield hospital at the age of 68. Services will be held at 1:00 p.m. at the West Side District Cemetery Mortuary on February 9, 2004.

There will be no public viewing. Funeral services are under the care and direction of the West Side Family Mortuary. (661) 763-1594.
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Manuel "Tony" Silva, 55
July 17, 1941 - May 16, 1997

Manuel Anthony "Tony" Silva Jr. was born in Fresno on July 17, 1941 and passed away in a Bakerfield hospital on May 16, 1997 at 55 years of age. Manuel served in the U.S. Air Force during the 1960's spending most of the time at Lackland Air Force Base. Upon returning to Taft, he became a truck driver, driving for 35 years on the West Side before his health forced him to reitre nine years ago. Manuel was a member of the Loyal Order of the Moose for 19 years. He loved fishing and spent many hours at local lakes, especially loving the times spent with his grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his father, Manuel Silva Sr. He is survived by his mother, Laura Wallace of San Jose; two brothers, Tony Silva of Texas and James Wallace of San Jose; two sisters, Laura Andrews of Fresno and Edna Alves of Kent, Washington; a son, Manuel Silva III, and his wife, Marcell, of Valley Acres; a daughter and her husband, Arlene and Mike Georgous of Bakersfield; his children;s mother, Darlene Silva of Valley Acrs; five grandsons, Joey Sarnowski, Bobby Murrell, Timmy Ice, Jeremy Silva and Manuel Silva IV; two granddaughters, Monique Ice and Darcell Silva; and numerous nieces, nephews and friends.

Mr. Silva's nephew, Leo Fisher, pastor of the United Pentecostal Church, will officiate.

Mr.Silva left no insurance and the family would appreciate any help his friends would care to give toward his final expenses. The Taft Funeral Home will be glad to assist in this and give receipts to the donors.

Visitation will be until 8:00 p.m. Tuesday. Graveside services will be Wednesday at 1:00 p.m. in the West Side District Cemetery.
Services are entursted to care of the Taft Funeral Home.
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Benjamin A. Simmons, 75
July 22, 1922 - November 1, 1997

Funeral services will be held in the Erickson & Brown Funeral Home Chapel at 11:00 a.m. Wednesday for longtime West Side resident Benjamin A. Simmons, 75. His son, Johnny Simmons, will speak at the services and burial will follow in the West Side District Cemetery.

Mr. Simmons was born in San Bernardino on July 22, 1922 and passed away in a local nursing home on November 1, 1997. He moved to Fellows with his family when he was five years old. He attended Fellows school and was a member of the 1941 graduating class at Taft Union High School. During the Second World War, Mr. Simmons served his country as a member of the U.S. Navy. He retired as a foremen from Marathon Oil Company after 41 years of service.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his brothers, Frank, Charles, Fred and Philip. Mr. Simmons is survived by his wife of 55 years, Lorrain "Tiny" Simmons of Taft, son Johnny and wife Ella Simmons of Fresno, daughter Bonnie De La Cruz of Taft; grandchidren, Amanda and Clint Watts of Taft, Troy Simmons of Fresno and Kimberly Simmons of Taft; brother-in-law Jim and Willie Gaither of Taft and sister-in-law Zula Simmons of Taft, plus several nieces and nephews.

Friends may call at the Erickson & Brown Funeral Home on Tuesday afternoon until 8:30 p.m. to pay their respects.
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Bernice Edra Walrath Simmons
October 13, 1921 - September 15, 2008

Graveside funeral service were held today (Friday, 9-19-08) for longtime Taft resident, Bernice Edra Walrath Simmons, 86. Mrs. Simmons was born in Bakersfield on Octoer 13, 1921 to Herbert and Lurlee Walrath and passed away at her Taft home on September 15, 2008. At the age of two the family moved to Missouri for a short time before returning to Kern County. Mrs. Simmons graduated from Midway Grammar School in Fellows and Taft Union High School. She had lived in Derby Acres and Fellows but most of her life she lived in Taft. Mrs.  Simmons didn't know a stranger and had a positive effect on everyone she met.

She was preceded in death by her husband of 34 years, Fred V. Simmons; her brothers, Delbert and Edward Walrath and her sister, Irma Schuster. Mrs. Simmons is survived by her sons, Gary Simmons and his wife, Arlene of Taft and Greg Simmons and his wife, Kay of Turlock; her daughters, Shearald Morris and her husband, John of Derby Acres and Delene Costello of Los Osos; her brothers, Raymond Walrath and his wife, Marlene and Charles Walrath all of Bakersfield; her sister, Doris Buttke, Sudie Love and her husband, Kenneth all of Paso Robles and Melba Ferguson of Taft; her five grandchildren and six great grandchildren plus numerous nieces and nephews.
The arrangments were under the direction of the Erickson & Brown Funeral Home.
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Bethany Christine Lytle Simmons
February 21, 1982 - December 29, 2013

Bethany Christine Lytle Simmons was born February 21, 1982 in Redmond, Oregon and passed away December 29, 2013 in Taft, California.

Bethany is survived by her daughter Mikiya. She is also survived by her Step father and Mother, Gary and Arlene Simmons; brother, Soloman Lytle; niece and nephew, Evangaline and Soloman Jr.; brother, Dustin Lytle, nephews, Shade and Logan.

May she rest in peace and will always be in our hearts.

Services will be held at the Westside Believers on Thursday, January 9, 2014 at 11:00 a.m.
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Charles E. Simmons, 78
May 2, 1918 - November 5, 1996

At the request of the family, no funeral or memorial services will be held for Taft resident Charles Edward Simmons, 78.

Mr. Simmons was born in Bisbee, Arizona on May 22, 1918 and passed away November 5, 1996 in a local nursing home. He had been employed as an oil worker for over 30 years and was last employed by Mobil Oil Company.

He was preceded in death by three brothers and a grandson, Mark Simmons, in January 1990. Survivors include a son and his wife, Melvin L. and Marcella Simmons of Marsing, Idaho; two daughters and their husbands, Shirley and Robert Chollman of Taft and Charleen and Norman Perreault of Bakersfield; two granddaughters, Cindy Simmons of Richland, Washington and Teresa Manes of Bakersfield; seven grandsons, Dennis and Steven Perreault of Bakersfield, Ken, David and John Miller of Taft, and Gregory Perreault of Fresno; a brother, Ben Simmons of Taft; and 10 great grandchildren.

The family has suggested that in lieu of lowers, memorial donations in Mr. Simmons name be made to the West Side District Hospital Foundation. There are not visitation hours scheduled and the arrangements are under the direction of the Erickson & Brown Funeral Home.
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Danny James Simmons
April 17, 1952 � May 31, 2003

Danny died on the 31st of May of heart failure.

He grew up in Manhattan Beach, California. After returning back from his term in Vietnam he moved to Taft, California. There he made his home. He ran heavy machinery and worked in the oilfields for many years. Sons Sonny and Maxwell also his daughter Paula along with her three children Jasmine, Gabriel and Anthony. Parents Margaret and Walter Birch, sister Candee Wilson and brother Jerry Simmons. Father Donald Simmons survived him. Danny was a great guy and will be missed by his many relatives and friends.

To celebrate Danny�s life we will hold a Memorial service on the 12th of July from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m. at the American Legion Hall, 618 Center, Taft, California.
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James Randall Simmons
July 30, 1911 � August 6, 2003

James Randall Simmons was born July 30, 1911, in Bakersfield. He grew up in Lost Hills and went to school in Taft. He was in the class of ’20 at Taft High School where he lettered in both baseball and football, while at the same time working for Standard Oil Company. He also played semi-pro baseball for the Standard Oil Company. He attended Bakersfield Junior College where he met Frances Drouillard, whom he married in 1935.

Altogether, he was married and widowed three times. After Frances died in 1962, he married Blanche Carrie and later Phelma Fitzhugh Ott, with whom he lived with for twenty-seven years. Phelma died in April 2002.

He is survived by his daughter, Joyce Ray; two granddaughters, Marie Ray and Dr. Eleanor Friele; two grandsons, Alex and Sean Friele; his sister Vivian Shaw; his stepdaughter, Linda Pickett; his step-grandsons, Michael Pickett and David Pickett; and stepson, Thomas Ott.

As a young man, he flew a mail route up and down the western side of the lower central valley. He worked for Standard Oil Company for many years. He was a master craftsman and during the Second World War he taught welding to the new unskilled shipyard workers at the Long Beach shipyards. After the war, he went to work at Vincent�s Sporting Goods store in Bakersfield as a safesmith and master gunsmith, a vocation which he loved all his life. He taught gunsmithing at Arvin nightschool during the late 50�s and early 60�s. After many years with Vincent�s he went into semi retirement, buying real estate, refurbishing it, and then either renting it or reselling it.

He always kept his personal tools and shop available to him – always active in his gunsmithing. He died, having finished one gun for one of his two great grandsons, the second gun yet unfinished.

Graveside services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, August 13, at Greenlawn Memorial Park. Viewing will be available prior to the graveside service. Remembrances can be made to your favorite charity.
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Zula May Gaither Simmons
November 11, 1922 - November 16, 2003

While surrounded by her family, Zula went to be with the Lord on November 16, peacefully in a Bakersfield hospital. Visitation was Tuesday, November 18, 2003 from 4:00 to 8:00 p.m. at the West Side Family Mortuary. Chapel Services were at Westside Family Mortuary on Wednesday, November 19, 2003 at 12:00 p.m., with graveside services at West Side Cemetery, Taft, California. Johnny Simmons (nephew) will be officiating the services.

Zula was preceded in death by her husband Phil Simmons; son Allen Simmons, mother and father Amanda and Jim Gaither, her sister Mildred Kocher, her favorite brother-in-law Ben Simmons. Zula has left many family and friends to cherish her memories. Daughter Phyllis Thompson, grandsons Fred Thompson, and Randy Witherall, brother Jim Gaither and wife Willie, sister Tiny Simmons and husband Dana. Nieces and nephews, Bonnie Smith and husband Bill, Connie Miller, Dee Ann Sampley and husband Michael, Johnny Simmons and wife Ella, Eddie Gaither and many great nieces and nephews. She had amazing friends whose lives she touched.

Zu was born November 13, 1922 - 1922 in Arkansas and came to California in 1925. She graduated from Taft High in 1941. Taft was her home all her life and she was proud to call Taft her home. Zu's life revolved around family. She loved to help anyone clean their house and loved to cook. Her highlight was playing Bunco every month.

Zu, we miss you, but you will be in our hearts forever. All funeral services are under the care and direction of West Side Family Mortuary. The Mortuary That Cares (661) 763-1594.
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Norman L. Simonek
July 13, 1941 - August 5, 2010

Norman Simonek of Winchester, Kentucky, entered into eternal life on August 5, 2010 after a 22 year battle with leukemia. He was surrounded by his family, whom he loved so dearly.

He is survived by his loving and devoted wife, Nancy Mott-Simonek and his children, Carolyn Rodriguez of Tulare, California, Sheri Simonek of Taft, California, Ralph Mott of Cynthiana, Kentucky, Steven Simonek (Shendonnah) of Tulare, California, Jennifer Mott of Winchester, Kentucky, Theron Mott (Becky) of Shanghai, China. He had 13 grandchildren and 4 great grand children. He is also survived by his brothers, Waler Simonek (LuAnn) of Inglewood, California, Harold Simonek (Sherry) of Gilbert, Arizona, Warren Simonek (Connie) of Hemet, California, and James Simonek (Kyung) of Sandy, Oregon, and a sister, Barbara Eichelkraut (Bill) of Torrence, California, well as numerous family members. He was preceded in death by his loving parents, Josephine and Jerome Simonek, brothers, Charles and Gerald Simonek, and a sister, Betty Jane "Patty" Simonek, as well as his favorite pet rabbit, Houdini.

He was a loving gentle and devoted man, always ready to give or receive hugs. He had a unique sense of humor, ranging from the "Wet Willy" to dancing a jig. He always made everyone laugh. He loved the outdoors, camping in Sequoia, playing with his rabbit, tinkering with cars and collecting "The Duke" memorabilia. He loved "Tis the Season." He will be deeply missed and forever in our hearts.

Our family wishes to extend our sincere gratitude and appreciation to the doctors and staff of the Markey Cancer Center for their gentle and loving care and devotion not only to Norm, but our family as well. Donations can be made to the Markey Cancer Center in Lexington, Kentucky. A memorial service wil be heldThursday, August 12th at 6:00 p.m. at Scobee Funeral Home in Winchester, Kentucky.
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Virginia Katherine Simonson, 73
January 17, 1922 - November 7, 1995

Cryptside funeral services will be held Saturday at 11:00 a.m. in the West Side District Cemetery Mausoleum of long-time Taft resident Virginia Donnel Simonson, 73. The Rev. Sam White, pastor of the Cuyama Assembly of God, will officiate at the services.

Mrs. Simonson was born on January 17, 1922 in Sedalia, Missouri, and passed away November 7th, in Taft. She came to Taft with her family at the age of 18 months. She attended local schools and graduated from Taft Union High School in 1940. She married Robert Simonson in 1942. While in Taft,the Simonsons raised two children. Together they operated a retail children's clothing business called "Youthville" form 1962-1980. Mrs. Simonson was known and well-liked throughout the community for her friendliness and positive attitude and will be missed by all those who knew and loved her.

She was preceded in death by her husband of 51 years, Robert Simonson. Her survivors include her chidren, Jim Simonson and his wife, Kris, of Taft and Sue Simonson-Roi and her husband, Steve, of Sunnyvale; her grandchildren, Todd and Jodi Simonson, and Jeffery Roi of Sunnyvale and Jennifer Dragoo of Colorado Springs, Colorado; a brother Harold Donnel of Arcadia; a sister, Marie Latkowski of Taft; a brother-in-law and his wife, Russell and Gladys Simonson of Glendale; a nephew and his wife, Cork and Margie Donnel of Taft; her nieces, Beverly Donnel of Sierra Madre and Betty Wilrich and her husband, Al, of Virginia; and many loving friends.

Remembrances may be given to Kern Hospice. Visitation will be held Friday from 9:00 a.m. until 8:30 p.m. and again Saturday for 8:30 a.m. until 10:00 a.m. at the Erickson & Brown Funeral Home.
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Eva Dorothy Simpson, 88
January 11, 1908 - January 18, 1996

Funeral services will be held Wednesday at 10:00 a.m. in the Sunset Chapel of the Taft Funeral Home for Taft resident Eva Dorothy Simpson, 88. The Rev. Sam White, pastor of the New Cuyama Assembly of God Church, and Taft Chapter #323, Order of the Eastern Star, will officiate at the services. Committal services and interment will follow in the West Side District Cemetery.

Eva Dorothy Moody was born in Lompoc on January 11, 1908 and passed away January 18, 1996 in a Glendora Convalescent Hospital. She spent several years of her early married life in Fellows with her first husband, Harold Riley, and three daughters. She and her second husband, Earl Toombs, moved to a new house at 215 Fillmore Street, in the early 1950's. Earl was well-known in Taft as a orchid grower, a honey bee man and a gauger with Standard Oil Company. She married John A. Simpson in 1986 and they traveled together, making several trips to Colorado and Hawaii. She was especially fond of the Isle of Maui. Mrs. Simpson was a member of the Native Daughters and the Order of the eastern Star, Taft chapter #323. She was a past member of the Grandmothers Club, West Side District Hospital Auxiliary, Senior Citizens Club, AARP Chapter #1060 and the West Kern Oil Museum Volunteer Group.

She was preceded in death by two husbands, Harold Riley and Earl Toombs, and her youngest daughter, Arlene. She is survived by her husband, John A. Simpson of Taft; two daughters, Norma Upton of Covina and Patricia Stedman of Prescott, Arizona; 12 grandchildren; 18 great grandchildren; and many nieces, nephews and friends.

The family has suggested remembrances in Mrs. Simpson's name be made to the West Side District Hospital Foundation for the West Kern Oil Museum. Visitation will be at the Taft Funeral Home Tuesday from noon until 8:00 p.m. and again Wednesday from 9:00 a.m. until service time.
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Thomas Eugene "T.J." Simpson III
June 1, 1982 - August 7, 2003

Graveside funeral services will be held in the West Side District Cemetery on Tuesday morning at 11:00 a.m. for Hesperia resident, Thomas Eugene "T.J." Simpson, 21 T.J. was born in Holbrook, Arizona on June 1, 1982 and passed away on the Colorado River on August 7, 2003. He graduatd from Scottsboro High School in Scottsboro, Alabama in 2000. He joined the U.S. Marine Corps. He had been employed as an assistant manager at Jiffy Lube in Sanata Maria and had recently moved to Hesperia to Work for his grandfather.

His survivors include his mother and step-father, Julie and Henry Saltsman of Maricopa; his father and his wife Thomas E. Simpson, Jr. and Jean of Santa Maria; his brothers and sisters, FTSA Daniel J. Simpson, currently stationed in Connecticut, Carrie Beckett, Joshua Saltsman and Matthew Saltsman all of Maricopa, Sherie, Cheyenne and Shanyah Simpson all of Santa Maria; his grandparents, Thomas E. Simpson, Sr. and Cheryl of Hesperia, Harold and Pat Donohue of Santa Maria, Bob and Janet Kirkland of Mariposa, Bill and Rita Beckett of Huntsville, Alabama and Francisco and Osmemia Viloria of Santa Maria; his great grandparents, Selma Adams of Riverside, Delbert and Iva Beckett of Morro Bay and Ted and Opal Blair of Taft.

Those who wish may pay their respects on Monday until 8:30 p.m. at the Erickson & Brown Funeral Home.
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William M. Sims
January 8, 1926 - October 16, 2011

Memorial services for William M.Sims will be held at Grace Episcopal Church (5 Real Road) on Thursday, October 20, 2011 at 6:00 p.m. Bill passed away surrounded by his family and friends on October 16, 2011.

Bill was born in Taft, California and is preceded in death by his parents, Albert and Winifred Sims and his wife, Midge Sims. He graduated from East Bakersfield HighSchool and Taft Junior College before serving three years in the Coast Guard during WWII. Bill went onto earn his law degree and became an advocate for injured workers. He was on of the first Certified Specialists in Workers' Compensation in Kern County and spent the majority of his career championing the injured and disabled. Bill partnered with Gabriel Solomon from 1964 to 1981. He retired from law practice in 2002.

Bill is survived by his daughter, Milissa Ackerlye; his step-son, Stuart Ahlf; grandsons, Jason Walston and Jarrod Ackerley, and granddaughter, Erica Ueberroth and her husband Eric. He also leaves behind his faithful companion, Kona. The family asks that in lieu of flowers; please donate to a charity that is dear to your heart. For additional information, please contact Basham Funeral Care at 661-873-8200.
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Genevieve [Jan] Henning Singatis
December 31, 1912 - March 22, 2003

Graveside funeral services will be held in the West Side District Cemetery on Thursday, March 27, 2003 at 1:00 p.m. for longtime Taft resident, Genevieve [Jan] Henning Singatis, 90. Pastor Darren Hulbert of the Advancing God's Kingdom will officiate at the services.

Mrs. Singatis was born in Janesville, Wisconsin on December 31, 1912 and passed away in Taft on March 22, 2003. Mrs. Singatis came to Taft in 1941. She worked as a waitress for Jo's Restaurant for 25 years. She was a member of the Housewives League for 50 years and the Grandmother's Club for 30 years. Mrs. Singatis was a volunteer at the West Kern Oil Museum. In her younger years, she won many trophies bowling and playing pool. Mrs. Singatis enjoyed crafts, making rugs, ceramics and crocheting. She would do anything for anybody.

Mrs. Singatis was preceded in death by her husbands, Charles Henning in 1995 and Nick Singatis in 1991 and by her son, Robert Henning in 1997. Her survivors include her two sons and their wives, William and Carolyn Henning of Taft and Richard and Paulette Henning of Mountain View; her grandchildren, Charles Henning and his wife, Sylvia of Oxnard, Mary Avery and her husband, Dale of Oxnard and Thomas Henning of Mountain View; and by her five great grandchildren. Those who wish to pay their respects may do so on Thursday from 8:30 a.m. to noon at the Erickson & Brown Funeral Home.
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Jack L. Sipes
August 26, 1927 - January 21, 2003

Graveside funeral services will be held in the West Side District Cemetery on Friday, January 24, 2003 at 2:00 p.m. for lifelong Taft Resident, Jack L. Sipes, 75. Mr. Sipes was born in Taft on August 26, 1927 and passed away at his home in Taft on January 21, 2003.

Mr. Sipes was raised and educated in Taft. Mr. Sipes served his country in the U.S. Navy during World War II. He worked for the U.S. Postal Service for 30 years. He was an avid sports fan and had many special friends. Mr. Sipes was a wonderful man.

His brothers, Harold Sipes and O.V.Sipes preceded him in death. His survivors include his niece and her husband, Stephanie and Christopher MacLaughin of Bakersfield; his great nieces, Holly MacLaughlin of Bakersfield; his special cousins, Neal and Mable Mitchell of Taft, Mary McGuire of Bakersfield and Ray Lewis of Long Beach.

Those who wish to pay their respects may do so on Thursday from 3:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. and again on Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at the Erickson & Brown Funeral Home.
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Bart Wesley Sisson, 41
December 25, 1959 - January 13, 2001

Bart Wesley Sisson, 41 died in Bakersfield on Saturday, January 13, 2001 of Septic Shock.

Born in Hanford, educated in Fresno and resided in Bakersfield where he was an independent carrier for the Bakersfield Californian newspaper. He enjoyed camping and fishing and he took great pride in his automobiles. He was compassionate, caring and of a generous nature to all who were less fortunate than he. His kindness and openhearted sense of humor was evident by his widening circle of loyal friends. Bart had a tremendous affection for his loved ones and treasured his friendships. He was seldom ever seen about town without his beloved Chihuahua, Ginger.

He was preceded in death by his father George Sisson of Hanford in 1996. He is survived by his mother Dorothy Sisson of Bakersfield, daughter Crystal Leann Sisson of Bellevue, Washington, sister Georgia Sisson Hurt of Visalia and Katie Sisson Roberts of Clovis and nephews Cole and Derek Roberts and Dana Hurt.

Graveside services will be held at 1:30 p.m. Monday, January 22, 2001 at Hanford Cemetery in Hanford, California.

Funeral Services are under the direction of West Side Family Mortuary, Taft.
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Danny G. Sisson
November 17, 1949 - June 16, 2002

A memorial service will be held for family and friends at the Civic Park on Kern Street, on Saturday at 1:00 p.m. for longtime Taft resident Danny G. Sisson, 52. Mr Sisson was born in Taft on November 17, 1949 and passed away peacefully at his home on June 16, 2002. Mr. Sisson was a heavy equipment operator for many years.

He was proceded in death by his father, Walter Sisson in 1978, his wife Vickie Sisson in 1989 and his brother James Sisson in 1984.

His survivors include his mother Vera Zimmerman, his three sons, Ron, Jeremy and Billy, his neice, Roxie Sisson Reed, his nephew, Colby Sisson, his sister-in-law Nancy Keeler Sisson; his two daughter-in-laws, Rhonda and Maelene, his great nephew Ryan Cos, his two great neices Paige and Taylor Reed; his grandson David Robert Sisson; and many other nieces and nephews.

There are no visitation hours scheduled. The arrangements are under the direction of the Erickson & Brown Funeral Home.
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Lloyd W. Skaggs, 78
June 11, 1919 - November 26, 1997

Funeral services are pending at the Erickson & Brown Funeral Home for Taft resident, Lloyd W. Skaggs, 78.

Mr. Skaggs passed away at his home on November 26th. He worked as a cowboy on ranches from Paso Robles to Frazier Park prior to WW II. He served his country during that war as a member of the U.S. Army. After the war, he went to work for Standard Oil Company where he worked until 1962. After leaving Standard Oil, he started Skaggs and Sons Trucking.

He was preceded in death by his brother Hubert Skaggs is survived by his wife Sadie Skaggs of Taft; his two sons and their wives, Bill and Gerry Skaggs and Jack and Marcia Skaggs, all of Bakersfield; his brothers Jesse, Calvin, Clifford and Orville Skaggs, all of Lanton, Missouri and Bennie Skaggs of Oroville; his sisters Gracie Clark of West Plains, Missouri, Lola Satterfield of Washington and Lois Muguffee of Salem, Arkansas; his grandchildren Gary and Mark Skaggs and Nicki Garinger.

Friends may call at the Erickson & Brown Funeral Home on Monday from noon to 8:30 p.m. and again on Tuesday from 8:30 a.m. to service time to pay their respects.
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Sadie Stewart Skaggs, 77
February 6, 1920 - December 6, 1997

Funeral services will be held in the Erickson & Brown Funeral Home Chapel on Tuesday afternoon at 2:00 p.m. for longtime Taft resident, Sadie Stewart Skaggs, 77. Burial will follow in the West Side District Cemetery.

Mrs. Skaggs was born in Coalinga on February 6, 1920 and passed away in a local skilled nursing facillity on December 6, 1997. Mrs. Skaggs came to Taft from Coalinga in 1923 and lived in Taft and on oil leases near Taft and Fellows. In 1939 her family moved to Elk Hills, the Navy oil lease Taft, where her father worked for the Richfield Oil Company.During World War II Sadie worked for Douglas Aircraft in Long Beach rivoting on the B-17 (Flying Fortress).

Mrs. Skaggs was the daughter of the late Tom and Effie Stewart and was preceded in death by her husband, Lloyd W. Skaggs and brothers, Russell, Allen, Wesley and Quicksel Stewart and her sisters, Nadine Wilde and Rena Hansen. Mrs. Skaggs is survived by her two sons and their wives, William and Gerry Skaggs and Jack and Marcia Skaggs all of Bakersfield; sisters, Betty O'Brien of Taft, Edith Cooper of Brookings, Oregon and Grace Fimple of Bakersfield and her grandchildren, Gary and Mark Skaggs of Bakersfield and Nicki Garinger of Frazier Park.

Friends may call at the Erickson & Brown Funeral Home on Monday until 8:30 p.m. and again on Tuesday from 8:30 a.m. to service time to pay their respects.
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Benjamin H. "Jack" Skiles
July 29, 1930 - July 20, 2008

Benjamin H. "Jack" Skiles born July 29, 1930 passed away at home in Jacksonville, Oregon July 20, 2008 He is survived by his wife Mondillia (Mondi) of 55 years, his three children, daughter, Micki Scott and husbasnd Darrell, son, Benjamin (Benny) and wife Sue, son, Bryon and wife Cathy, 9 grandchildren, 13 great grandchildren, brother Ray Skiles and wife Dora, sister Patt Badger, numerous nieces and nephews, numerous brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law.

There are no services. In lieu of flowers make donations to Homecare & Hospice Services, 2825 East Barnett Road, Medford, Oregon 97504.
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Leland Skinner, 72
July 26, 1929 - February 18, 2002

Memorial funeral services will be held in the Erickson and Brown Funeral Home Chapel on Friday morning at 11:00 a.m. for Taft native, Leland Skinner, 72. Mr. Skinner was born in Taft on July 26, 1929 and passed away at his home on February 18, 2002. He was raised and educated in Taft and graduated from Taft Union High School. During World War II he proudly served his country as a member of the Merchant Marines. After the war he served two years in the Navy. Mr. Skinner graduated from Fresno State and received his masters Degree in Education Administration from California State Universty, Bakersfield. He had been employed as the superintendent of Belridge School District and retired in 1984. Mr. Skinner was a member of the Taft Elks Lodge and served the lodge twice as Exalted Ruler.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Harry and Evelena Skinner; his sister Mary Evelyn Keeler; his grandson Bo Daniels.

Mr. Skinner's survivors include his wife Polly; his sons and their wives, Kevin and Cara and Steve and Domenique; his daughters and their husbands, Kathryne and Aurelio Cavazos and Kimberly and James Daniels, and his brother and his wife Gifford and Mary Skinner, and by several nieces and nephews and grandchildren.

In lieu of flowers the family has suggested that donation may be made to a charity of their choice. There are no visition hours schedualed and the service are under the direction of Erickson and Brown Funeral Home.
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Ken Slaughter
February 26, 1934 - July 14, 2003

Ken Slaughter was born on February 26, 1934 in Chaffee, Missouri and passed away on July 14, 2003 in a Bakersfield hospital. He was a resident of Taft for the last 43 years.

He is survived by his wife of 50 years, JoAnn Slaughter; his son and daughter-in-law, Ken and Gerri Slaughter of Leucadia, California; his daughter, and son-in-law and grandson, Linda, Jim and Jacob Wierbick of Dublin, California. He will be remembered as a kind and loving husband, father and grandfather. He will be greatly missed by all those who truly knew him. Mr. Slaughter will be cremated and the ashes will be returned and the ashes will be returned at a later date.
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Henry A. Sletz
December 7, 1919 - October 30, 1979

Former Taft resident Henry A. Sletz, 59, of Macon Georgia died recently and was buried last week at Middle Georgia Memory Gardens in Macon.

Mr. Slentz was a member of the Cross Keys Baptist Church and was also a pilot with the State of Georgia Forestry Commission.

He was a major in the Army Air Corps and had spent time overseas during World War II as a pilot.

He received his education of Taft schools and was active in sports. He was born in Van Wert, Ohio, and came to Taft at a young age with his parents, the late Ora and Gladys Slentz.

Survivors include his wife , Mrs. Carol Neal Slentz of Macon: two sons, Allen E. Slentz and Richard Lynch of Macon: two daughters, Loraine Toby of Longmont, Colorado and Mary Frances Slentz of Macon; his mother, Mrs. Gladys Slentz of Taft; three brothers, Raymond Slentz of Bakersfield; Boyd Slentz of Downey and Jack Slentz of Taft; five sisters, Mrs. Junaita Maize, Mrs. Betty Barnes, and Mrs. Patsy Hill, all of Taft, and Mrs. May Lou Garges of Bakersfield and Mrs. Helen Richard of Virginia Beach, Virginia.
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Mary Nell Edwards Slentz-Bertolucci-Garrett
May 17, 1931 - May 21, 2001

A celebration of life will be held Thursday, June 7, 2001 at 11:00 a.m. at Vessels of honor, 225 Chester Ave. (parking in rear). Pastors Chuck and Silvia Lack will officiate.

Mary was born to Lon "Blackie" and Lois Edwards on May 17, 1931 in Prescott, Alaska. The family then moved to Taft, California in 1937 then to Shafter where Mary graduated high school in 1949. She attended nursing school for a short time but spent her years working in the secretarial field, retiring from Tosco Refinery. God gifted Mary with an ear for music. She was accomplished at the accordion and piano. A voice from heaven, she sang as a child with her family "The Edwards" and later on TV with the Cousin Herb Show and Jimmy Thomason. She was always very involved in her church playing piano and singing. Now she sings with the angels and dances the streets of gold praising her Lord.

Mary was preceded in death by her parents and husband, Raymond Slentz. She is survived by husband, Charles; daughter, Raynell and son-in-law. Randy Lyons; brother Coy Edwards and wife, Leta, all of Pineville, Louisiana; daughter, Carol and son-in-law Richard States; grandchildren, Wendy Ash and Craig Taylor; three great grandchildren and stepchildren, Dwayne, Darrin and Diane, all of Bakersfield.

Mary passed away May 21, 2001 after celebrating her 70th birthday with her family.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in her name to the Muscular Dystrophy Association.
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Anita F."Kili" Sligh, 74
September 14, 1924 - October 30, 1998

Fresno Bee Nov. 8, 1998

Sligh. Anita F. "Kili" - Memorial services for Anita F."Kili" Sligh, 74, of Clovis will be held at 3:00 p.m. Saturday at Grace Chapel of Fresno in Clovis.

Mrs. Sligh a self-employed transcriber for 10 years, died October 30, 1998. Arrangements are under the direction of Nove Cremation Service.
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Boyd William Small
July 23, 1918 - March 27, 2001

Visitation for Boyd William Small will be held at Basham Funeral Care on Friday evening March 30, 2001 from 4:00 - 8:00 p.m. Graveside services with christian burial well be held at Hillcrest Memorial Park on Saturday morning March 31, 2001 at 10:00 a.m. Officiating Boyd's services will be Pastor Milt Cole of Riverslakes Community Chruch.

Boyd was born July 23, 1918 in Taft, California and he passed away peacefully at his home with his family by his side on Tuesday, March 27, 2001.

He is survived by his wife, Dorene Small; twin brother, Lloyd Small; sister, Mildred McNeely; cousin, Audrey Loperena; grandson, John and Matthew Small; granddaughters, Eden and Daniellle Small; great grandchildren, Amanda and Noah Small; beloved daughter-in-law, Dixie Small and may other sister and brother-in-laws and nieces and nephews.

Boyd was raised in Taft, California and he attended Taft schools. He served our county in the Army Air Corps and he graduated from La Verne College and he attended seminary at the Baptist College and he attended seminary at the Baptist Theological Seminary in Covina. In 1938, he met his lively bride Dorene Aaron at a dance and they were married in January of 1941. This past January, Dorene and Boyd celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary. He was a building contractor and developer for over 50 years. He was currently the owner of the Belle Terrrace Industrial complex and a partner in the Westside Industrial Complex. Boyd loved his family dearly and he will be missed by all that knew him.
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Dorene Katherine (Aaron) Small
August 28, 1923 - September 15, 2010

Dorene was born in Taft, California, where she was raised, educated, and met the love of her life. She was the first born of 5 children to Connie and Victor Aaron, and her two older siblings from her fathers side. She met her true love, Boyd Small in 1938 at a dance, and they married in January of 1941.

Lovingly known as "Doe" to those innumerable many whose lives she touched, her light shined ever bright, continuing to touch new lives up until her last days.

She passed away peacefully at her home in Bakersfield surrounded by her family. She is preceded in death by her mother and father, Constance and Victor Aaron, her beloved husband of 60 years, Boyd Small, her two sons Woodrow and Richard Small, and her sisters and best friends, Patty Aaron and Roxanne Armstrong. She leaves behind four grandchildren, beloved daughter-in-law and brother-in-law, sisters, brothers, nieces, nephews and so many friends to cherish her memory and and keep her light shining.

Doe was active up until her last few weeks of life. She enjoyed traveling to her favorite spots like Seattle, Arizona, Morro Bay, and Bass Lake. She loved her twice weekly exercise class with friends at Kern City, and remained active in her church. Dorene was a true servant of the Lord, and her relationship with her savior and strong faith emanated through her life. She cherished attending River Lake Church, being an original member of their prayer group ministry for over 25 years. Doe was a warm loving, gentle and humble soul who adored her dogs, was a fantistic dancer, loved to laugh, and had the most beautiful smile that was a reflection of her beautiful generous heart.

A celebration for the inspirational life of the "heart of our family" will be held at River Lakes Community Church, 4301 Calloway Drive, Bakersfield, California, on Saturday, September 18th, at 1:00 p.m. For additional information, contact Basham Funeral Care at 837-8200.
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Rhonda Kay Small
August 9, 1958 - November 5, 2011

Rhonda was born in Oxnard, California, August 9, 1958 to Risdon J. & Glenna F. Robinson. She passed away November 5, 2011.

She was preceded in death by both parents and a brother, Terry G. Robinson of Arizona. Surviving Rhonda is a sister, Debbie Gordon of Taft, a brother, Steve A. Lovingood, 3 grandchildren all of South Carolina, a step father James (Lucky) Lyles of Taft. A private family ceremony will be held at a later date. She will be missed by all.
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Milton Lee Smart
June 2, 1944 - October 28, 2012

Milton Lee Smart, born in Phoenix to Joseph and Myrtle Smart, died Sunday, October 28, 2012, after a long fight with heart, lung disease and diabetes.

Preceded in death are his parents, Joseph and Myrtle, and siblings Jim, Joe, Dan, Mae, Samuel, Catherine, Dorothy and daughter, Deborah Ann Smart are deceased. Also Deceased are his dogs, who meant the world to him - Bowser, 1994 Scooter, 1996; Sassy, 2010; Baby girl, 2012. He is survived by his wife and sweetheart, Linda Kay Smart of Kingman; his sisters Mary, Viola and Mildred; his son, Lester (Sara) Smart of Taft, California; and his daughters, Carolyn (Ron) Ray of Taft, Cheryl (Rick) Keel, Rhonda (Daniel) Hobbs, Kelly Fagan of Bakersfield, April (Stanley) Hopps of Kingman and Suzette (Tyler) Herreid of Kalispell, Montana. He is also survived by 21 grandchidren, whom he loved and who all put smiles on his face; and many nieces and nephews, all spread across the United States. Also surviving are special friends, Karen Calton and Connie Frizell of Bakersfield.

He was employed at J. G. Boswell in Bakersfield, California, as a heavy equipment foreman for 40 years. He loved golf, fishing, antiquing, collectibles and swap-meeting with his wife. He loved working with his hands and working with wood. He loved having fun, corky, and loveable. Daddy touched many lives of the people he met. Thank you to all family and friends for being a part of Milton's life. Gone Fishing A memorial service will be held in Saturday, January 5th, 11:00 a.m., at In Jesus Name ministries, 731 E. 21st Street, Bakersfield, California 93305. Reverend Harold Bryant will officiate.
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Albert Smith, 71
September 12, 1931 - December 8, 2002

Albert Lee "Al" Smith, 71, of Albany died Sunday at home.

Mr. Smith was born in Long Beach, California to Ray and Leona (Tanner) Smith. He grew up in Taft, California and lived in California until 10 years ago, when he moved to Oregon. He served in the Air Force in the Korean War.

He married Lori Schaid on March 18, 1970. Locally Mr. Smith belonged to the New Life Center Church. He was a member and former board member and membership chairman of the Oregon Paralyzed Veterans of America. He also had served on the board of the California Paralzyed Veterans of America. Mr. Smith enjoyed bowling and participating in wheelchair bowling tournaments through out the United States. He also liked watching NASCAR racing.

Surviving are wife Lori; daughters Susan Thomas of Thousand Oaks, California, Julie Small of Santa Maria, California, and Nanda Hall of Weatherford, Texas; brothers Charles Smith of Lake Shasta, California, and Ray Smith of Taft, California; grandchildren Shelley Thomas, Kelci and Jeremy Small and Rusti Spear.

A memorial service was held at 10:00 a.m. Friday at the New Life Center. Burial was in Willamette National Cemetery in Portland. Contributions in Mr. Smith's name maybe made to the Oregon Paralyzed Veterans of America or to New Life Center. They may be sent in care of Fisher Funeral Home, P.O. Box 156, Albany, Oregon 97321.
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Arthur Franklin Smith, 84
July 15, 1911 - January 2, 1996

Private family services and interment will be held for Arthur Franklin Smith, 84. Mr. Smith was born July 15, 1911 in Hallis, Oklahoma and passed away in a Bakersfield hospital on January 2, 1966.

He served in the U.S. Army during the World War II. Following the war, he lived in Manson, Washington, coming to Taft in 1982. Mr. Smith was a member of the Jehovah's Witnesses. He was an outdoorsman and loved to fish.

He is survived by two sons and their wives, Frank and Sally Smith of Redding and Douglas and Jan Smith of Manson; a daughter and her husband, Reba and Joe Cox of Taft; a brother, Bobby Smith of Arizona; a sister, Irene Smith of Arizona; and numerous grandchildren, great grandchildren,nieces, nephews and friends.
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Bernidene Smith
June 17, 1929 - August 8, 2011

Bernidene Smith was born to Robert and Eunice Irby in Madera on June 17, 1929 and passed away in Bakersfield on August 8, 2011. She moved from Madera to Buttonwillow 49 years ago and had made Taft her home for the last 40 years.

Mrs. Smith had worked as a cosmetologist for the last 30 years and was working at her daughters shop, Personal Style. She was better known to her ladies as "Bernie" and she loved her patrons.

Mrs. Smith was preceded in death by her parents and two brothers. Her survivors include her husband, Smitty Smith; her children and their spouses, Gary and Lenore Rowe and Vicky and Sam Gregory all of Taft; her 6 grandchildren; 19 great grandchildren; and 2 great-great grandchildren "Remember me full of life with much laughter and sparkles."

There are no formal funeral services planned at this time and the arrangements are under the direction of the Erickson & Brown Funeral Home. www.EricksonAndBrown.com
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Beverly Lou Smith
June 14, 1929 - February 11, 1997

Funeral services will be held on Saturday, February 15, 1997 at 2:00 p.m. at Hillcrest Memorial Park for Beverly Lou Smith, who passed away on February 11, 1997 in Ventura, California.

A long time resident of Bakersfield, Beverly was born on June 14, 1929 in Taft, the second daughter of Tunis and Lucille Smith. The famiy moved to Bakersfield in 1936, where they bought a small ranch in Old River. Beverly and her sister, June, attended Old River and Lakeside Elementary Schools, and graduated from Kern County High School. In 1946 Beverly married Roland Humeston and they had two children, Patricia and Steve. She was employed for many years by GMAC and Three Way Chevrolet. For the past several years, Beverly had resided in Santa Monica and most recently in Ventura.

Beverly will always be remembered for her love of life and laughter. She is survived by her children and their spouses, Jim and Patricia Humeston Orefice of Orange County, and Steven R. and Julie Humeston of San Bernardino County; grandchildren Steven Roberts, M.D. of Minneapolis, Erin Zeto of Huntington Beach, Jonathan Humeston and Jennifer Humeston of San Bernardino, and three great grandchildren, Benjamin and Madeline Roberts and Shelly Zeto. She is also survived by her sister and brother-in-law, June and Leo Paine; two nephews, Mike Williams and Rod Paine, and two nieces, Shelley Coburn and Lisa Martin, all of Bakersfield.
Hillcrest Memorial Park & Mortuary Funeral Directors
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Buster Smith Rites Pending
July 28, 1924 - September 9, 2004

Family and friends will gather for a VFW graveside service for Buster Smith on Tuesday, December 28, 2004 at 11:00 a.m. in the West Side District Cemetery.

His family has asked that in lieu of flowers donations be made to your favorite charity.
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Cathy Diana Smith
May 27, 1951 - September 4, 2012

On Tuesday September 4, 2012 our Wife, Mother, Nana, Sister, Aunt and Friend, Cathy Diana Smith of Taft, California was called to be our Guardian Angel.

She was born Cathy Diana Floyd, on May 27, 1951 in Denver, Colorado and relocated to Oxnard, California short time there after. It was there that she met her future husband, when she was just 14 years old and married him 3 years later. She resided in Ventura County until 2005, when she and her family moved to Taft. She was the best in everyone, never judging and always willing to give of herself. Her family and friends meant everything to her and she will forever be the glue that holds us all together.

Waiting with open arms to greet her at the Gates of Heaven, where her son Sean Smith, Mother and Fathers, Son-of-Heart Timothy Michaels, Father and Mother-in-law, great nephew Ayden Henderson and Brother. Loving Her and Celebrating her Life, are her loving husband of 44 years, James (Smitty) Smith, Son Michael Smith, Daughter Shannon Paracha, Grandchildren Sean Smith, Jeffery Smith, Ty Jones, Amanda Rubio, Tonya Rubio, Christina Kelly, Great Grandchildren Zachary Smith and Makaylah Flores, Her Albertson of Taft Family and Cohorts, Mike (Laquetta and Shelbie) Jones and all who were blessed to have had her pass through their lives, how ever brief it may have been.

Please come and Celebrate Her Life on Sunday September 16, 2012 at 1:00 p.m. We will be gathering at her favorite park, Veterans Memorial Park on Kern Street in Taft. She will be missed and always loved by those who knew her. If you never had the chance to have her bless your life in some way, we are truly sorry for your loss.
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Charlene Kay Smith
September 28, 1951 - December 3, 2002

Charlene Kay Smith, 51, passed away on Tuesday, December 3, 2002. She had lived the major part of her life in Taft and Bakersfield. She graduated from Maricopa High School in 1969 and from Taft College in 1976. She worked many years for Shell Oil Company and was a member of the Taft Chapter, Women of the Moose for 22 years and the American Legion Women's Auxiliary, Post 11, in Madera, California and a member of the Freewill Baptist Church of Madera, California.

Her husband of 20 years, Aaron G. Smith, her parents, Charles and Dorothy Bailey and a brother David V. Bailey, and many nieces and nephews survives her.

A memorial service will be held at "The Madera Freewill Baptist Church" on December 14th at 6:00 p.m.
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Cleona N. Smith, 78
January 1, 1918 - January 18, 1996

Graveside funeral services will be held Wednesday at 2:00 p.m. in the West Side District Cemetery for Cleona Naomi Smith, 78. The Rev. Mark Roberts, pastor of the New Hope Temple, will officiate at the services.

Mrs. Smith was born in Tupilo, Arkansas on January 1, 1918 and passed away January 18, 1996 in a local hospital. She spent her early years in Arkansas before moving to the San Fernando Valley. She came to Kern County in 1948. She had recently made her home at the Taft Residential Care Center.

She is survived by two sons, Roy and Danny Edmaiston of Taft; a daughter-in-law, Nancy Edmaiston of Bakersfield; her grandchildren, Danny and Michael Edmaiston and Nick and Karen Ellis, all of Bakersfield, and Kathryn and Larry Jewell, David and Jennifer Edmaiston, and Sherry and Dwayne Cloud, all of Taft; seven great grandchildren; and one great-great granddaughter.

Friends are invited to call at the Taft Funeral Home Tuesday from noon until 8:00 p.m.
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Dolly L. Smith, 87
January 17, 1903 - November 23, 1991

At the request of the deceased there will be no formal funeral services for Taft resident Dolly L. Smith, 87. Burial will be private in the West Side District Cemetery.

Mrs. Smith was born in Fulton, Missouri on January 17, 1903 and passed away in the local hospital on Saturday morning. She moved to the West Side about 45 years ago. Mrs. Smith owned and operated Ruth's Frock Shop on Center Street for more than 25 years.

Her survivors include her sister Emma Williamson of Taft; her niece, Nancy Barker of Taft; her grandniece and nephew, Renee and Tim Snyder and family of Bakerfield and Robert and Annetta Barker and family of Taft.

The services were under the direction of the Erickson & Brown Funeral Home.
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Edith E. Smith
September 2, 1930 - June 21, 2002

Visitation for Edith E. Smith will be held at Basham Funeral Care (3312 Niles Street) on Wednesday morning June 26, 2002 from 9:00 to 11:00 a.m. and graveside services will follow in the "Hill of Valor" at Hillcrest Memorial Park at 12:00 noon, where she will be joined with her late husband, Hal E. Smith. There will be a reception following the services at her home (2212 Ellen Way).

Edith E. Smith passed away at her home in Bakersfield, California on Friday, June 21, 2002, after a courageous battle with cancer. Edith was born Edith Ellen Edwards on September 2, 1930 in Taft, California where she spent her childhood. She later moved to Kernville where she lived off and on through the years. She attended Taft High School and graduated in 1948. She then joined and served her country in the U.S. Air Force in 1951 with an honorable discharge in 1953.

Left to treasure her memory are her brother and sister-in-law, Leroy and Clarice Edwards; brother, Benny Edwards; sons and daughters-in-law, Larry and Kathy Smith, Peter and Laura Cooskie and Wesley and Dexene Smith; daughter and son-in-law, Angela and Bill Lovett; 10 grandchildren; 3 great grandchildren; numerous nieces and nephews and many other extended family members. Among her friends are the beloved "Ladies of Bunco" and many, Many other friends along the way.

She was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt and friend. Edith touched everyone's life that ever knew her. Her wonderful spirit and sense of humor will live on in all of us. She will be forever missed and her beautiful smile will always be etched in our memory. She truly was the most gentle, loving soul that ever walked. When you think of her, your heart fills with an abundance of love and joy.

For additional service information of floral delivery information, please contact Basham Funeral Care (3312 Niles Street) 873-8200.
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Edith Irene Smith, 90
January 1, 1912 - April 7, 2002

Funeral services for Edith Irene Smith will be held Thursday April 11, 2002 at 2:00 p.m. in the Chapel of the Westside Family Mortuary. Visitation will be Wednesday, April 10, 2002 from 3:00 to 8:00 p.m. Burial will follow in the Westside District Cemetery. Re. Lonnie McAllister of the Freewill Baptist Church will officiate.

Edith was born in Carbon Texas, January 1, 1912 and passed away in Bakersfield April 7, 2002. Edith was an elementary Teacher in Texas before moving to California in 1937. Taking time off to nurture her two children Lee and Janice, she returned to teaching in 1946 in Cuyama, where she taught all grades in one room for five years. The bulk of her teaching career was in Maricopa where she taught until she retired in 1975.

Edith has been a member of the Rebekah Lodge of Taft since 1944, she also enjoyed the fellowship at the Senior Nutrition Center and a member of the Free Will Baptist Church.

She is survived by one son, Lee Elton Smith of Washington D.C., one daughter, Janice Smith of San Carlos, California, two grandchildren Justin Barton, Alex Smith, two Great grandchildren Hayley Barton and Kendall Barton, brother Rufus Jordan and sister Pearl Peck both of Texas.

Friends who wish may donate to the Research Foundation of Colon and Rectal Surgery. Arrangements are under the Care of West Side Family Mortuary.
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Elizabeth Smith
November 17, 1916 - June 14, 2008

Elizabeth Smith, who taught piano in Taft from 1953 to 2000 died last Saturday, June 14th. She passed away from a massive heart attack at age 91, while a resident of Golden Living Center in Shafter, where she has lived for the past four years.

Born Elizabeth Cowan on November 17, 1916, in Riverside County, California she grew up on a ranch in Caruthers, a small farming community in Fresno County and married Mel Smith in August of 1937. They were married for 66 years; until Mel's death in 2003.

Both lived in Taft for 50 years, and for the majority of that time, Elizabeth was well known for her musical talents, as she taught piano, privately, to approximately 500 students during that time, and accompained the chorale groups in the Taft schools. Some of her excellent students received music scholarships to attend universities and colleges.

She began takilng piano lessons at the young age of five, and exhibited an extraordinary musical talent. During the "Great Depresssion" years, when her parents could no longer afford to pay her for less, her piano teacher suggested that Elizabeth do household chores for her in exchange for her weekly piano lessons.

As a teenager in high school, she played in a dance band, and played the piano and the organ for several weddings in Central California in order to earn money for her family during those difficult economic times iln the 1930's.

After her marriage to Mel Smith, they resided in Southern California, and during WWII she worked in an aircraft factory that manufactured airplanes. In 1944 they moved with their two children to Madera, California and in 1949 she began her career as a piano teacher. In 1953 they moved to Taft, because Mel was transferred to the Taft Branch of Bank of America, which was located on Center Street at that time.

Elizabeth taught as many as 80 students each week in her home from Monday through Saturday. During that time she taught two of her granddaughters: Stacy (Stoll) Lozano and Julie (Smith) Gumz, as well as taught singiing lessons to Kevin Smith, one of her grandsons. All three of them performed in her piano recitals, which were held every two years in the high school's auditorium, which was filled to capacity.

After she suffered her heart attack a few days ago, Desiree (Thornton) Harder, one of the women from the hospice service who was caring for Elizabeth during her final days, discovered women from the hospice service who was caring for Elizabeth during her final days, discovered that she had been a student of Elizabeth's 35 years ago.

Elizabeth is survived by her daughter, Nancy (Smith) Sousa, of Taft, a son, Doug Smith, of Laguna Hills, California, five grandchildren, nine great grandchildren and one great-great grandson.

Graveside services are being held this Saturday 10:00 a.m., the 21st, at the West Side Cemetery, located on Cedar Street in Taft. A Celebration of Her Life will be held after the funeral, and will be hosted by Nancy and Al Sousa and Steve and Hilda Stoll. Location for this celeabration will be explained at the graveside service. Friends and former students are welcome.
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Eugene "Gene" Smith
September 22, 1914 - July 12, 2002

Graveside funeral services will be held in the West Side District Cemetery on Thursday afternoon at 2:00 p.m. for Fellows resident, Gene Smith, 87. Pastor Bob Self will officiate at the services.

Mr. Smith was born in Tipton, Indiana on September 22, 1914 and passed away in a Bakersfield hospital on July 12, 2002. He moved to Taft in 1953 and has resided in Fellows since 1973. He had worked in the Kern County oilfields for over 30 years.

His first wife, Arlena Smith Teafatiller, preceded Mr. Smith in death. His survivors include his wife, Doris Richards Smith of Fellows; his children and their spouses, Shirley and William Byrd of Oak Harbor, Washington, Ronald and Sherry Smith of Taft and Roger and Roberta Smith of Buena Park; his step-children and their spouses, Nita Tawyea of Taft, Tom Richards and Sandy of Monterey and Ron and Anne Richards of Fresno; his sister, Pearl Carney of Indiana; several grandchildren and many great grandchildren.

Friends are invited to pay their respects on Wednesday from 3:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. and again on Thursday from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at the Erickson & Brown Funeral Home.
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Eva May Smith
June 21, 1920 - March 18, 2003

Graveside funeral services will be held in the Ivy Lawn Memorial Park, in Ventura, on Friday, March 21, 2003 at 2:00 p.m. for longtime Taft resident, Eva May Smith, 82.

Mrs. Smith was born on June 21, 1920 and passed away on March 18, 2003 in Bakersfield. She was raised in Maricopa and has lived on the Westside all her life. Mrs. Smith drove a tractor trailer at Gardner Field during World War II.

She was preceded in death by her husband, George C. "Smitty" Smith in 1992. Mrs. Smith is survived by her sister, Betty Herr; her brothers, Lloyd J. Smith, Jr. and Richard T. Smith and many nieces and nephews.

In lieu of flowers the family has suggestd that donations be made in Mrs. Smith's name to the charity of your choice. Those who wish to pay their respects may do so on Thursday from 3:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at the Erickson & Brown Funeral Home.
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Foy A. Smith
July 10, 1939 - February 14, 2014

Graveside funeral services will be held in the West Side District Cemetery on Wednesday, February 19, 2014 at 11:00 a.m. for Taft resident, Foy Allen Smith, 74.

Mr. Smith was born in Mesa, Arizona on July 10, 1939 and passed away in Bakersfield on February 14, 2014. He had make Kern County his home for the past 60 plus years. Mr. Smith had been employed as a truck driver he worked at the West Side Recreation and Parks District for several years. He will be remembered as a man who would do anything he could for his family and his neighbors.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Shirley Smith: his parents, Clifford and Gertrude Smith and by his sister, Wanda. Mr. Smith loved his family and was ready to join his beloved wife, Shirley. His survivors include his children, Sam Smith, Rick Smith, Treva Yochum and Ken Smith; his brother Troy Smith; his sisters, Audrey Carlin and Shirley; his grandchildren, Sam, Courtney, Desiree, Aaron, Rachel, Ean and Jared.

No visitation hours are scheduled and the services are under the direction of the Erickson & Brown Funeral Home. To convey condolences or sign and online register, please visit www.EricksonAndBrown.com
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Annie Helen Smith, 67
November 12, 1928 - August 9, 1996

Funeral services will be held in the Sunset Chapel of the Taft Funeral Home Wednesday at 10:00 a.m. for Annie Helen Smith, 67. Committal services and interment will follow in the West Side District Cemetery.

Mrs. Smith was born on November 12, 1928 in McLeansboro, Illinois, to Frank and Goldie Craddock and passed away August 9, 1996 at her home in Valley Acres. Helen and Harold Roy Smith were married on December 24, 1944 and they moved to Taft in July 1967. She was a loving mother and grandmother and had been active as an Avon distributor for many years.

She was preceded in death by her husband on April 26, 1993; a daughter, Brenda Sue Baker, on February 17, 1994; her parents; and two brothers, Tye and Glen Craddock. She is survived by three daughters and their spouses, Anita And Lawrence Wardrup, Judy and Butch Rawls and Vickie Edmaiston and Dutch Templeton, all of Taft; a son and his wife, Harold D. and Wanda Smith of Taft; seven grandchildren and their spouses, Daryl, Harold W. and Cassie Smith, Carmen Parker, Sherry DeWayne Cloud and Kevin and Korina Rawls, all of Taft and Kraig and Karen Rawls of Madera; three great grandchildren, Kurtis and Kylie Rawls and Alexis Cloud; three brothers and a sister, all of McLeansboro; and her in-laws, Eva Smith and families.

Visitation will be Tuesday from 3:00 - 8:00 p.m. The services are entrusted to the care of The Bonewell Family of The Taft Funeral Home, A Golden Rule Funeral Service.
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Iva M. Smith, 67
November 13, 1929 - March 18, 1997

Graveside funeral services will be held in the West Side District Cemetery, Friday at 11:00 a.m. for Taft resident Iva M. Smith, 67. The Rev. Sam White, Pastor of the Cuyama Assembly of God Church, will officiate at the services. Also Doris McDonald from the VFW will speak at the services.

Mrs. Smith was born in Carnegie, Oklahoma, on November 13, 1929 and passed away on March 18, 1997 in a Bakersfield hospital. She was a member of various clubs and had been past president of the VFW Auxiliary, American Legion Auxiliary and Pyphians Sisters.

She is survived by her husband of 51, years, Buster Smith of Taft; her mother, Inez Hanes of Oklahoma; her brother, Bob Proffitt of Nevada; her three sisters, Ester Gibson of Taft, and Eva Ledford and Betty Baily both of Oklahoma; her two daughters and their husbands, Bertha and Tom Goard of Alabama, and Sally and Donald Baxter of Oregon; her grandchildren, Debbrah Berard, Angela Villalobos, Barbara Goldsberry and Steven Walsh, all of Lompoc, Donald Baxter Jr. of Oregon, and Anthony Baxter of Taft; her 14 great grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to your charity of choice. Visitation hours are scheduled Thursday from noon to 8:30 p.m. and again Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. at the Erickson & Brown Funeral Home.
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Josie Adella Smith
April 1, 1953 - July 25, 1996

Graveside funeral services will be held in the West Side District Cemetery Saturday at 9:00 a.m. for Taft resident Josie Adella Smith, 43.

Mrs. Smith was born in Coalinga on April 1, 1953 and passed away July 23, 1996 in a Bakersfield hospital. She was raised and educated in Coalinga and had lived in Taft for the past eight years. She was a member of the First Freewill Baptist Church. Mrs. Smith had been employed as a clerk at Safety Drug Company. Prior to her employment there, she was employed for tour years at Time Warner Cable.

Her survivors include her husband, Darrell Smith of Taft; a daughter, Tammy Trevillian of Bakersfield; her mother, Mary Mesa of Coalinga; her brothers John Rivera of Coalinga and John Rivera of Coalinga and Valentino Rivera of Santa Maria; and her grandchildren. Megan, Michael and Mariah Trevillian.

Friends may call at the Erickson & Brown Funeral Home Friday from noon until 8:30 p.m. to pay their respects.
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Lena Smith, 84
December 9, 1911 - February 25, 1996

Graveside funeral services will be held Wednesday at 2:00 p.m. in the West Side District Cemetery for long-time Taft resident Lena Smith, 84. The Rev. Tom Scalera, pastor of the First Assembly of God, will officiate at the services.

Mrs. Smith was born in Dexter, Missouri on December 9, 1911 and passed away February 25, 1996 in a local nursing home. She moved to Taft in November 1919 and joined the First Assembly of God in 1922 and has been a member ever since. She was also a member of the church's women's group.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Evan "Mike" Smith, in March 1982. Her survivors include several nieces and nephews; her special friends, Bob and Sue Michal, and their sons, Bill and David Michal, all of Taft; her church family at First Assembly of God; and a host of other friends.

Those who wish may call at the Erickson & Brown Funeral Home Tuesday until 8:30 p.m. and again Wednesday from 8:30 a.m. until 1:00 p.m. to pay their respects.
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Leona M. Smith, 81
May 7, 1920 - May 24, 2001

Funeral services will be held in the Erickson & Brown Funeral Home Chapel on Tuesday at 11:00 a.m. for Leona M. (Kurtz) Simmons, Langdon, Smith, 81. Private burial well be in the West Side District Cemetery.

Mrs. Smith was born in Lemoore in May 7, 1920 and passed away in a local nursing home on May 24, 2001. She had been a cook at Midway School and at the Petroleum Club. Mrs. Smith was a member of the Moose Lodge, the Pocahontas and the Dolphins (the wives of submariners). She was preceded in death by her husbands. Charles Simmons, Ernest Langdon and Lyle Smith; her parents; her four brothers; her four sisters, and her grandson, Mark Simmons.

Her survivors include her son and his wife, Melvin and Marcella Simmons of Idaho; her daughters and their husbands, Shirley and Bob Chollman of Taft and Charleen and Norman Perreault of Bakersfield; her step-daughter and her husband, Holly and Mark Chavez of Bakersfield; her brother and his wife, Jack and Alice Kurtz of Clear Lake; her sister and her husband, Pat and Larry Blair of Oxnard; her nine grandchildren and their spouses; her 11 great grandchildren and many nieces and nephews. Mrs. Smith will be remembered as a great homemaker and a loving mother and friend.

Friends are invited to pay their respects on Tuesday from 8:30 a.m. to service time at the Erickson & Brown Funeral Home.
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Leonard Sylvester Smith
November 29, 1927 - February 11, 2012

Leonard Smith, lovingly known as Pete to his family and friends, was born in Graham, Oklahoma on November 29, 1927. Pete had a special woman waiting for him to arrive in Heaven for Valentine's Day this year. He was granted passage to heaven on February 11, 2012 to be with his wife of 59 years, Ruby Smith who paved the way to Heaven for him on February 15, 2011.

Pete is survived by his sons, Ron, Phillip and Kelly Smith. His sister Katherine, her husband Tom Little, brothers Jimmy, his wife Frankie Smith and Richard, his wife Doris Smith. Pete had 4 grandchildren, Phillip, Christopher, Cody, and Holly. His grandchildren gave him 5 great grandchildren. He leaves behind numerous nieces, nephews, friends and family who will miss him.

Pete was a veteran of World War II where he served in the United States Navy. He was an avid fisherman who loved to fish. He was also known as a hard worker, who at the young age of 84 still worked in the oilfields of McKittrick.

A memorial service to celebrate Pete's life will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Sunday, February 25, 2012 at the First Congressional Church located at 395 California Street, Maricopa, California with a potluck to follow.
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Lois Margaret "Margot" Smith
February 7, 1916 - May 28, 2011

Lois margaret "Margot" Smith died early Saturday morning, May 28, 2011, at Presbyterian Intercommunity Hospital, Whittier, California. She was 95. Born in San Diego, California, Margot attended San Diego State University before transferring to the University of California, Berkelely, where she earned a BA and MA in English (1940). Her joy was the community of students at UC's International House.

Margot taught high school in Mendocino until invited to Avenal High School where she taught college preparatory English and drama from 1943 to 1952. While in Avenal, Margot met petroleum engineer Leonard Smith. The couple married in San Diego in 1949. Their son, Dennis was born in 1952. Standard Oil moved the family to Taft, California, where Margot taught at Taft College for 33 years, founded the International Club, advised the literary annual, and was women's counselor. They retired to the Smith family home in Whittier in 1986.

Margot was precede in death by Leonard, her husband of 56 years, and is survived by their son, Dennis Charles Smith, his wife Kagari Tokumaru Smith, and their daughters Caitlin Akiha Smith and Elise Meika Smith; nieces, nephews, numerous students, and many friends.

A memorial celebration of the lives of Margot and Leonard is planned for September 4, 2011 in Whittier. Memorial contributions may be made to the Restless Legs Syndrome Foundation, 1610 14th Street NW Suite 300, Rochester, MInnesota 55901.
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Lorene E. Smith
August 9, 1917 - April 9, 2003

Graveside funeral services will be held in the West Side District Cemetery on Tuesday at 3:00 p.m. for longtime area resident, Lorene E. Smith, 85. Steve Wright of Taft Kingdom Hall, Jehovah's Witnesses will speak at the services. Mrs. Smith was born in Pride, Texas on August 9, 1917 and passed away in Taft of April 9, 2003. Mrs. Smith had lived in this area for over 65 years and was a Jehovah's Witness.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Charlie C. Smith, two children and three grandchildren. Mrs. Smith's survivors include her five daughters Edna Parish of Bakersfield, Edith R. Smith of Taft; Nora Rohlfing of Bakersfield, Carolyn Yates of Bakersfield and Susan Shephard of Arkansas; her sister, Flossie Long of Oregon; her 13 grandchildren; 20 great grandchildren; and three great-great grandchildren.

The family would like to thank the CAN's at Regency West II for the loving care they showed their mother. Friends are invited to pay their respects on Monday form 3:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. and again on Tuesday from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the Erickson & Brown Funeral Home.
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Mark W. Smith
March 6, 1954 - March 2, 2003

A memorial service will be held on Wednesday, March 5, 2003 at the Cuyama Methodist Church in Cuyama at 6:00 p.m. for New Cuyama resident, Mark Wayne Smith. Mark was born on March 6, 1954 in Conneaut, Ohio to Floyd and Lucille Smith and he passed away on March 2, 2003 at the age of 48 in New Cuyama with his loving family by his side. Mark served his country in the United States Air Force before he was honorably discharged.

Mark married his wife of 28 years Vicky and had 5 children, sons: Dustin Smith and Tim Smith both of Santa Maria, California and daughters: Amy Murrillo of Santa Ynez, Tracy Smith of West Palm Beach, Florida and Ginger Smith also of Santa Maria and he had five grandchildren. He is also survived by his father, Floyd Smith of Ohio and by his sister, Bonnie Hoover also of Ohio and by his brothers, Leylend Smith and Merl Smith, both of Wyoming. Mark was loved by all who knew him and he will be deeply missed.

There will be no viewing hours scheduled.
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Mary Lee Smith
October 7, 1921 - January 9, 2014

Mary Lee Smith was born on October 7, 1921 in Taft, California to Hugh and Ruby Brown. She grew up in Taft and graduated from Taft High School in 1938. She was accepted at Franklin Hospital's newly added School of Nursing in San Francisco where she earned her degree and Nursing (RN) Certificate.

Shortly after returning to Taft, she met and married John "Jack" Smith in 1942. They had a son and a daughter. Mary Lee worked at Taft Community Hospital for 16 years which was built and owned by her Mother-in-Law, Norma Smith, while Jack was a popular disc-jockey at KTKR Radio Station. In 1958, Mary Lee and her family moved to Bakersfield and built a home in East Bakersfield where she lived until she passed away. Mary Lee quickly found a job as a Surgery Nurse for Dr. Marion C. Barnard at Niles Medical and Surgical Group, where she stayed until she retired in 2001. Mary Lee was passionate about making a difference in the lives of her patients. Mary Lee had many interests. She loved to travel and garden. Mary Lee sent as much time as possible with family and kept in close contact with friends and neighbors. She also had a great love for her pets, Peanuts, Rudy and Barbie.

Mary Lee was preceded in death by her husband John "Jack" A. Smith and her parents Hugh and Ruby Brown. She is survived by her sister, Billie Pinnick Lovemark; her son Duane Smith; her daughter Georgette Smith; her nieces Cassandra Pinnick Rodgers, Cynthia Pinnick Stadelman and Shawna Romine; and her nephew Mike Wells.

A graveside service will be held at Hillcrest Memorial Park and Mortuary, 9101 Kern Canyon Road on Friday, January 17, 2014 at 10:00 a.m. In lieu of flowers please donate to the SPCA. For additional information, Please contact Hillcrest Memorial Park and Mortuary at 661 - 366-5766.
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Melvin C. Smith
September 26, 1914 - June 1, 2003

Sunday, June 1st, long time Taftian Melvin C. Smith, died at Mercy Westside Hospital from complications after suffering a major stroke exactly two years ago. He was 88, and had lived in Taft for 51 years with his wife of 61 years, noted piano teacher Elizabeth Smith. Mel was born in Denver, Colorado in 1914 and moved to El Segundo, California in 1916, where he attended school.

In 1952, working for Bank of America, he was transferred to the Taft Branch, which at the time was branch number 3, the third branch of Bank of America's many branch offices, where he remained until he retired in 1977. He was an active member of the Exchange Club and elected to the hospital board for several years. Since retiring from the bank, he kept busy with his gardening and his hobby of working and was noted for making wooden wall clocks, which he loved to give to people of this community.

Mel was responsible for making some of the display cases for the Oil Museum in Taft. While working at the bank he was responsible for making loans, and some of the current business owners in Taft give him credit for assisting them in their time of financial need. During Mel's years at El Segundo High School, he was the star athlete of the basketball and baseball teams. In the 1940's and early 50's he played first base on an all-star softball team in Madera, California. Taftians recall Mel's morning walks and friendly nature, which will be missed.

He is survived by his wife, Elizabeth, his daughter, Nancy Sousa, a Taft resident and teacher at Midway High School, Doug of Laguna Hills, five grandchildren and seven great grandchildren. A brief graveside ceremony will be held Saturday June 7th at 10:00 a.m. at West Side Cemetery, and immediately following will be a "Celeration of Mel's Life" to be held at the home of Nancy and Al Sousa, 220 E. Lucard Street. Those who knew Mel are encouraged to attend and celebrate his life with stories about him and his thoughtfulness.
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Michael Wayne Smith
October 24, 1972 - July 23, 2002

Graveside services will be held on July 29, 2002 at 11:00 a.m. at the West Side District Cemetery for Taft resident, Michael Wayne Smith.

Michael was born on October 24, 1972 in Bakersfield, California and passed away on July 23, 2002 in Taft, California at the age of 29. Michael was employed with Nuevo Oil Company as an operator for 2 years. He loved water sports, fishing, water skiing and jet skiing.

Survivors include his wife Paula Smith of Taft, parents, Howard and Lenna Shafer of Taft, aunts; Johnie Coakley and her husband Ted of Bakersfield and Janey Brown of Taft, cousins; Sherry Hall of Bakersfield, Rhonda Flores of Bakersfield, Cheryl Armstrong of Utah and Tom Brown of Taft. Nieces; Tiffanie, Crystal and Alyssa, his in-laws, Chester and Betty Roberts of Arkansas, sister-in-law, Mellisa Roberts of Arkansas, brother-in-law Chester Roberts of Arkansas, many other cousins and friends.

Michael is preceded in death by his grandparents Leonard and Emmer Martin, Michael was loved by all and will be deeply missed.

There will be a public viewing on Friday, July 26th from 4:00 to 8:00 p.m. at the West Side Family Mortuary and again on Saturday July 27, from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. All funeral services are under the care and direction of West Side Family Mortuary. Taft. (661)763-1594
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Mildred May Smith
January 31, 1918 - February 15, 2002

Friday morning, long time Derby Acres resident Mildred May Smith quietly passed from this life. Mildred was born on Omaha, Nebraska on January 31, 1918 to Charles Franklin Campbell and Emma Rebecca Harper Campbell. She passed away February 15, 2002 having just celebrated her 84th birthday.

Mildred with her parents and brothers migrated from Nebraska to Oregon, and then to Oakland, California in 1927. They moved to Bakersfield in 1928, where she attended Standard School and graduated from Kern High School in 1936. She met Everett Smith in 1935 and on the 1st of September 1937, they were married. They moved first to Fellows and then Derby Acres where she lived for over 60 years.

Mildred was preceded in death by her parents, her husband of 32 years in 1970. Everett Tyner Smith, her daughter, Sharon Pauline in 1940 and her son Patrick Winn Smith in September 2001. Mildred also lost her brothers, Jesse, Charles, Floyd and Leo Campell.

Family was important to Mildred. She left behind to morn her three sons and there wives, David and Sandra Smith, Charles and Earlene Smith, Michael and Virginia Smith, all of Taft. Also surviving her are her grandchildren, Shawn and Cary Smith of Naperville, Ill., Kimberly and Brett Dobson of Tehachapi, California, Troy Smith of Derby Acres, Brandon and Tara Smith of Fairfield, California, Matthew Smith of Oregon, Chad Smith of Taft, Adam Smith of Taft, and Daniel Smith of San Diego, California. She will also be missed by her 5 great-grandchildren, Oakley, Deven, Austin, Trenton and Aliana Smith.

Mildred had been a active member in many lodges and organizations, the Pithian Sisters, Eastern Star, Desrettes, The Housewives league, Westside Senior Citizens, AARP and the Grandmother's Club. She was often voted into offices and served as president for many of them. She had been a Den Mother for the Cub Scouts and was active in the Midway School PTA, when the boys were young. Mildred was well known for her handicraft work. She painted ceramics, porcelain, China dolls. She enjoyed crocheting and even completed several baby afghans after she lost her eyesight.

She will also be remembered by many children as the "Park lady". She worked for the Westside Parks and Recreation in the 1950's and 60's teaching crafts and overseeing activities at the McKittrick, Derby Acres and Fellows Parks.

Visitation will be held at Erickson and Brown Funeral Home, 501 Lucard Street Taft, Wednesday, February 20th from 3:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. and Thursday from 8:30 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. Graveside services will follow on Thursday at 11:00 a.m. at Westside Cemetery.
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Norma Z. Smith
September 16, 1897 - September 15, 1965

Born September 16, 1897 California
Died September 15, 1965 lived in Bakersfield, California and Taft, California Age 67
Bakersfield Californian, Saturday September 18, 1965
Smith, Norma Zemira

Services will be conducted at Greenlawn Mortuary Monday 10:00 a.m. for Norma Zemira Smith, 67, 8909 Viola St, she died September 15 in Slovang. The Rev. Glenn D. Puderm minister of the First Presbyterian Church will officiate and interment will follow in the Oak Hill Section, Greenlawn Memorial Park.

Mrs. Smith was a native of California. She had been a nurse for 43 years and was a member of the Reistered Nurses of California and the Native Daughter's of California.

Survivors include a son, Jack Smith of Bakersfield; two daughters, Catherine Rich of Bakersfield and Norma Sechler of Marina; one brother H.R. Crouch of Texas; four grandchildren and 3 great grandchildren. Pallbearers will be Douglas Dalton, Joe Linden, Clifford Shelton, Fred Long, Joe Cosgrove and Robert Payne.

Note: Norma Smith owned the Taft Community Hospital until around 1946 and a womens clothing store in Downtown Taft.
Donated by Marta O'Keefe Starr.
I have a question, was she born in October or September?
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Patrick Winn Smith, 49
October 13, 1951 - September 15, 2001

Taft native, Patrick Winn Smith, was born at The Fort on October 13, 1951 to Everett and Mildred Campbell Smith. He passed away peacefully in his sleep while camping in Mariposa, California on September 15, 2001. Patrick was raised in Derby Acres, attended Midway School in Fellows and graduated from Taft Union High School in 1969. He received his AA from Taft College in 1972. After working in the oilfields for three years, Pat decided to pursue his love of cooking and attended the Culinary Program at San Francisco City College. Upon graduation he worked as a chef in Houston, Texas, San Francisco, New York and Las Vegas. In the 1970�s he ran Patrick�s Restaurant on North Street in Taft. More recently he catered dinners locally.

Patrick loved the outdoors and was well known for his cooking, gardening, wood and ice carving. He enjoyed sharing his talents and fresh vegetables with family and friends.

Patrick was preceded in death by his father, Everett Tyner Smith in 1970 and his sister, Sharon Pauline Smith in 1940. His survivors include his mother, Mildred Smith of Derby Acres; his brothers and their wives, David and Sandra Smith, Charles and Earlene Smith, Michael and Virginia Smith all of Taft. He also leaves seven nephews, one niece, five grandnieces and nephews and numerous aunts, uncles and cousins.

Graveside funeral services will be held on Friday, September 21, 2001 at 3:00 p.m. in the West Side District Cemetery. Rev. David Daniel, pastor of Calvary Temple Assembly of God, will officiate at the services. Carol House will be the soloist. Honorary pallbearers will be his brothers, Dave, Charles and Mike Smith and his nephews, Troy, Chad and Brandon Smith and Brett Dobson.

Visitation will be held on Thursday from 3:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. and on Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at the Erickson & Brown Funeral Home, 501 Lucard St. Patrick will be greatly missed by his family and many friends.
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Robert F. Smith
July 1, 1929 - November 9, 2009

Services have been scheduled for Visalia resident, Robert F. Smith, 80. The visitation scheduled will be private. A Celebration of Life Service will be held on Friday, November 13, 2009 at 2:00 p.m. at Miller Memorial Chapel. Condolences may be made at www.mem.com. The Arrangements are under the direction of Miller Memorial Chapel, Visalia.
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Thelma Jean Smith
November 30, 1922 - July 26, 2009

Thelma Smith passed away in Bakersfield on July 26, 2009 after a brief illness. Thelma was the daughter of the late Inez Dunn and Lester Boyd and the widow of the late Willam B. Smith. Thelma Jean Boyd was born in Oildale on November 30, 1922 and her family moved to Taft shortly afterward. Growing up in Taft and graduating with TUHS class of 1939 she went on to take business classes in Los Angeles that stood her well over the years.

Thelma worked as a civilian secretary at Gardener Field and then transferred to Douglas, Arizona during World War II. During the war Thelma dated and married William B. Smith in 1945. While Bill was in the service she and her mother started the childrens store "Tot Shop" on Center Street in Taft and on Bill's return they founded Youthville which they ran until 1963, where her flare for display and organization was able to shine. Thelma then went on to become a secretary for Taft City Schools, worked at CWOD and after "retirement" she and Bill again founded yet another business, Jean's Antiques which became a wonderful excuse for their love of travel. The Smith's fondness for the sights was embraced with the boys as they traveled through Mexico towing a travel trailer with their 65 Mustang convertable or touring Europe.

Thelma collected inspiration from each venture and incorporated them into her gracious homes. Only last year did she design and have created a garden gate worthy of her favorite magazine, Architectural Digest. A very humble, independent lady, Thelma was exceptionally talented and artistic, a seamstress, gardner, decorator and advisor, all this done with attention to detail, taste and her own special flair. Yet nothing sums up Thelma as much as her quite ways and gift of doing as much her personal project of collecting new coats all year and providing a closet full at Conley School...quietly done with care and determination that was so typical of Thelma. Her goodness and generosity will surely be missed.

She was preceded in death by her parents; brother, Tye Boyd; and her husband of 59 years William B. Smith. She is survived by sons Boyd Smith, Bill Smith and his wife Bonnie; her sister La Vonn Culp; granddaughters Jennifer Pitts and Stephanie Smith; great grandchildren, Bailey and Eyan Pitts; nieces, Jo Ann Urioste, Silvia Carrol and Sherry Lynn Boyd; and special good friend, Craig Noble.

Visitation for Thelma is scheduled from 4:00 - 8:00 p.m. Friday, July 31, 2009, at Westside Mortuary, graveside services will be held at 9:00 a.m. on Saturday August 1, 2009 at Westside District Cemetery with a recepition immediately following at First Assembly of God Church, 314 Asher Avenue, Taft, California.
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Walter Bryant Smith, 92
August 2, 1915 - March 22, 2008

Graveside funeral services will be held in the West Side District Cemetery on Thursday, March 27, 2008 at 11:00 a.m. for long time Taft resident, Walter Bryant Smith, 92. Rev. Tom White, pastor of Cuyama Assembly of God, will officiate at the services.

Mr. Smith was born in Rome, Georgia on August 2, 1915 and passed away at his home in Taft on March 22, 2008. He served his country as a member of the U.S. Army and had been a farm laborer for 50 years.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Nora; his son, Walter Bryant Smith, Jr.; his grandaughter, Joyce Helton. Mr. Smith is survived by his children, John E. Smith of Bakersfield, Florence Tutt of Taft, Myra Helton of Red Bluff, Lillie "Boots" Gardiner of Bonanza, Oregon and Debbie Player of Battle Ground, Washington; 13 grandchildren; 37 great grandchildren; and 16 great-great grandchildren.

Visitation will be on Wednesday from 3:00 p.m. at the Erickson & Brown Funeral Home for those who would like to pay their respects.
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Walter Bryant Smith Jr., 49
March 2, 1952 - November 4, 2001

Walter Bryant Smith Jr. passed away November 4, 2001 at Mercy Hospital in Bakersfield.

He was loved by many, he is survived by his wife Roberta Smith, his son Robert Smith, daughter Pamela Brown, 2 grandchildren, Seth and Zoey, daughter Stacy Fuson, parents Nora and Walter Smith. Four sisters and one brother and many nieces and nephews.

At his request there will be no services held. He will be missed and never be forgotten.
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Wayne "Bud" Smith
March 3, 1925 - June 22, 2006

Graveside funeral services will be held in the West Side District Cemetery on Tuesday, June 27, 2006 at 10:00 a.m. for long time Taft resident Wayne Bud Smith, 81. Rev. Tom White, pastor of Cuyama Assembly of God will officiate at the service, Bud was born in Kettle Falls Washington on March 3, 1925 and passed away peacefully at his home in Taft on June 22, 2006. Bud came to Taft in 1925. He worked for Standard Oil Company as a diesel mechanic for 40 years. Bud was preceded in death by his father and mother, Elmer and Eva Smith his brothers Snuff and Merle; and by his sister-in-law Peggy. His survivors include his wife of 61 years Chris Smith; his sons, Russell and his wife Marilyn and Mark and his wife Debra; his daughter Chris and her husband Greg Scott; his six grandsons and seven granddaughters, and two great grandchildren he is also survived by his faithful caregiver, Susan Wagner.

In lieu of flowers the family asks that donations be made in Mr. Smith's name to the Multipule Scierosis Society 1615 E. Shields Ave, Fresno California 93704 or the American Cancer Society, 1523 California Ave. Bakersfield, California 93304. Those who wish to pay their respects may do so on Monday from 3:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at the Erickson and Brown Funeral Home.
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James Raymond Smyth
September 14, 1926 - March 31, 2002

Private services are schedules for Tupman resident, James Raymond Smyth who passed at age 75.

James was born on September 14, 1926 in Centralia, Washington and passed away on March 31, 2002 in Bakersfield California. James was employed with Boston Hospital where he worked as a manager in the housekeeping department.

He is survived by his sons; James Smyth II and Jorge Smyth, daughters Judalon Smyth, Jesuree Elliot and Joslnn Lytell, brother Frank Smyth, sisters; Sally Parker and Agnes Smyth and numerous friends. James was loved by all who knew him and will be greatly missed.

All funeral arrangements are under the care and directions of West Side Family Mortuary Taft
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Bertram Joseph Snedden Jr.
March 16, 1913 - February 28, 2002

Funeral services were held in the Westside District Cemetery Chapel this afternoon at 3:00 p.m. for longtime Maricopa resident, Bertram Joseph Snedden, Jr. 88. Pastor Rick Francis of the First Congregational Church will officiate at the services.

Bertram was the fourth child of Bertram and Grace, was born on March 16, 1913 in Los Angeles, California. He was raised on and worked for the Snedden Land and Cattle Company Ranch. He was educated in the Maricopa Unified School System, Taft Junior College and University of California at Davis. Due to the depression, Bert left school and returned to the Ranch in 1933. For the past forty-five years Bert has operated the Santiago Ranch. Since 1974 he has been in partnership with his son, Richard. They have a registered and commercial Hereford cow-calf operation.

On June 20, 1937 Bert married Esther Aileen Miller. She was also born and raised in Maricopa. Bert was a trustee of the Maricopa School Board for 18 years and on the Taft Junior College Board. He is a Past Master of the Maricopa Masonic Lodge and a life member of the Scottish Rite Bodies of Bakersfield. He was a member of the First Congregational Church of Maricopa where he served as Deacon. Bert was active in the livestock industry. He served as Director and President of the Kern County Cattlemen's Association and was honored as Kern County Cattleman of the year 1972. He was active in the California Cattlemen's Association as a director, chairing several statewide committees. He served on the Veterinary Medicine Advisory Committee for the University of California at Davis and a member of the Kern County Grazing Committee, Bert's hobbies included braiding western tack and making spurs for his children and grandchildren.

Bert is survived by his wife, Esther Aileen Snedden of Maricopa and his sons Bertram Joseph Snedden III of Bend, Oregon; and Richard Miller Snedden of Maricopa; his daughters, Janet Snedden of Fresno and Diane Aileen Chapman of Bakersfield; his 12 grandchildren seven great grandchildren and by numerous nieces and nephews.

In Lieu of flowers donations may be made in memory of Mr. Snedden to LMRF,CCA-Livestock Memorial Research Fund, c/o California Cattlemen's Association 1221 H. Street, Sacremento, California 95814-1910. The Funeral Arrangements were under the direction of the Erickson and Brown Funeral Home
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Esther Aileen Snedden
April 13, 1916 - December 22, 2002

Private family funeral services were held in the Erickson & Brown Funeral Home Chapel on Friday, December 27, 2002 for long time Maricopa resident, Esther A. Snedden, 86. Pastor Rick Francis of the First Congregational Church of Maricopa officiated at the services.

Mrs. Snedden was born in Maricopa on April 13, 1916 to Hazel Estelle and O.G. Miller, who served as Maricopa Postmaster. She was raised in Maricopa and educated in the Maricopa Unified School System. She married Bertram Joseph Snedden, Jr. on June 20, 1937 . For the past forty-five years she was the book-keeper/secretary at Santiago Ranch and since 1974 she and her husband had been in partnership with their son, Richard. They have a registered and commercial Hereford cow/calf operation. She was a 50 year member of the California Cattlewomen's Association and very active in its activities. She was a member of the first Congregational Church of Maricopa. Her hobbies included reading, yard work, oil painting and she produced exquiste china painting.

Her husband, Bertram J. Snedden, Jr. on February 28, 2002, preceded her in death. Mrs. Snedden is survived by her sons, Bertram Joseph Snedden, III of Bend, Oregon and Richard Miller Snedden of Maricopa; her daughters Janet Snedden of Fresno and Diane Aileen Chapman of Bakersfield; her 12 grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; and by numerous nieces and nephews.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in memory of Mrs. Snedden to the American Lung Associatin of Kern County, 306 Chester Ave., Bakerfield, California 93301. The funeral arrangements were under the direction of the Erickson & Brown Funeral Home.
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David Monroe Sneed, 60
February 4, 1942 - April 15, 2002

Funeral services for David Monroe Sneed will be Monday April 22, 2002 at 1:00 p.m. in the West Side Family Mortuary Chapel. Pastor Paul Wilson of the Trinity Southern Baptist Church will officiate. Internment will be in the Westside District Cemetery. Visitation will be Sunday April 21, 2002 from 3:00 to 8:00 p.m. at the West Side Family Mortuary.

Survived by his wife; Judy Sneed of Taft, sister; Marilyn and husband Herb Elliott of Bakersfield, California, brother; Wayne and wife Kem Sneed of Glendale, Arizona, sister Linda and husband Pete Perreira of Modesto, California, sister-in-law Pat and husband Wayne Belyeu of Texas, brother-in-law James and wife Marilyn Jones of Texas and many aunts and uncles, nieces and nephews.

David loved to fish and do woodwork. He was a friend to all that met him. He was very much loved and will be missed. Friends who wish may donate to your favorite charity. Funeral services are under the care of West Side Family Mortuary.
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Blanche Snider, 89
November 19, 1905 - November 4, 1995

Graveside funeral services will be held in the West Side District Cememtery Wednesday at noon for former Taft resident Blanche Snider, 89. The Rev. Sam White, pastor of the Cuyama Assembly of God Church, will officiate at the services.

Mrs. Snyder was born November 19, 1905 to Charles and Eva Franken in Bardley, Missouri and passed away November 4, 1995 in a Lancaster nursing home. She moved to Taft in 1947 where she worked as a nurse's aide at the West Side District Hospital. She moved to Bakersfield in 1965 and to Santa Barbara in 1985. Mrs. Snider attended El Camino Presbyterian Church while living in Santa Barbara. She was a member of the Order of Eastern Star. She was always willing to help anyone at any time. She was loved by many, including her daughter-in-law and son-in-law. She loved to fly with her son and son-in-law.

Her survivors include a brother Samuel Franken of Oceanside; a son Robert Olds of Charleston, Arkansas; a daughter Darlene Johnston of Santa Barbara; six grandchildren and nine great grandchildren.

Friends may call at the Erickson & Brown Funeral Home Tuesday until 8:30 p.m. and again Wednesday from 8:30 a.m. until 11:00 a.m.to pay their respects.
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Virginia Snider
December 31, 1919 - October 15, 2003

Funeral services will be held in the Erickson & Brown Funeral Home Chapel on Wednesday, October 22, 2003 at 10:00 a.m. for longtime Taft resident, Virginia Snider, 83. Rev. Tom White of Cuyama Assembly of God will officiate at the service and burial will follow in the West Side District Cemetery.

Mrs. Snider was born in Bakersfield on December 31, 1919 and passed away in a Bakersfield hospital on October 15, 2003. She had moved to Taft from Bakersfield in 1938. Mrs. Snider worked for Standard Oil Company for 36 years and was a member of Desk and Derrick. She was also a member of the Order of the Eastern Star Chapter #323and was a past worthy matron.

Mrs. Snyder was preceded in death by her parents, Solie Howard and Edna Howard Hensley and by her husband Allen Snider in 1995. Her survivors include her daughter and husband Darlaine and Willard Nickel of Bakersfield; her grandsons, Dr. Frank Long and his wife, Cheryl of Maryland and John Blunt and his wife, Cindy of Bakersfield; her great grandchildren, Jerred and Jason Blunt both of Bakersfield, Jason Andrew Long, Joy April Long, Josha Long, and Zackery Long all of Maryland; her great great granddaughter, Kathernia Blunt of Bakersfield and her brother, Bill Howard of Fresno.

Pallbearers at the service will be, Ed Ridgeway, Dale Ridgeway, Marvin Stone, Mike Stone, Neal Harris and John Caufield. Thos who wish to pay their respects may do so Tuesday from 3:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at the Erickson & Brown Funeral Home.
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Troy Snyder-Mayberry, 28
August 3, 1967 - March 15, 1996

Graveside funeral services will be held in the West Side District Cemetery Friday at 2:00 p.m. for Taft resident, Troy C. Snyder-Mayberry, 28. The Rev. Sam White, pastor of the Cuyama Assembly of God Church, will officiate at the services.

Troy was born in Rockingham County, Virginia on August 3, 1967 and passed away March 15, 1996 in Salem, Oregon. He was raised and educated in Taft, graduating from Taft Union High School. He was employed as a construction worker for several years. Troy was a loving, son, brother and uncle.

He is survived by his parents, Hallie-Fay and Buddy Mayberry of Taft; his sisters and their husbands, Rebecca and Frank Sabin of Las Vegas and Linda and Jim Cash of Taft; his brothers and their wives, Mike and Susan Bartley of Roseburg, Oregon and Scott and E. V. Snyder-Mayberry of Herndon, Kentucky; his nephews and nieces, Michael Bartley of Symra, Tennessee, christopher, Megan, Eriq and Heather Cash, all of Taft, and Jimmie and Julie of Roseburg, Oregon; and his aunt, Irene Lickliter of Staunton, Virginia.

Those who wish to pay their respects may do so Thursday from 4:00 p.m. until 8:30 p.m. and again Friday from 8:30 a.m. until 1:00 p.m. at the Erickson & Brown Funeral Home.
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Margaret Snoddy, 87
April 8, 1876 - December 23, 1963

Margaret Virginia Snoddy, a resident of California for more than a half century, died this morning at a local hospital at the age of 87.

Mrs. Snoddy a native of (Parie H.P. Missouri - this was really hard to read) was born April 8, 1876. She had lived on the West Side for 30 years and was a member of the Methodist Church of Taft and the Rebecca Lodge.

Survivors _________ twin sons, Ralph Snoddy of Hawthorne, Wendel Snoddy of Taft, two daughters, Mrs. Russell Pled of Pasadena, and Mrs. Dorothy Gessling of Cuyama, seven grandchildren 10 great grandchildren.

Funeral arrangements are pending at the Erickson & Brown Funeral Home.
I am really sorry if I miss spelled names or places, I did the best I could. This particular obit was extremely hard to read. A REALLY BAD COPY! If you would like to correct this let me know. I will gladly do it. Thanks, Ann
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Wally M. Snoddy
July 2, 1923 - March 3, 1995

Graveside services will be held today at the Delano District Cemetery. Memorial service for Wally M. Snoddy will be held Friday, March 10, 1995 at 11:00 a.m. at the First Methodist Church in Delano.

Wally was born in Ash Grove, Missouri, to L. C. and Etta Snoddy on July 2, 1923. He attended school in Ash Grove until the family moved to Delano in 1936. Wally graduated from Delano High School and Bakersfield College before entering the U.S. Army, during World War II. Wally served his country for over three years in the Pacific Theatre in Australia, New Guinea and the Philippine Islands.

After returning from the war, Wally continued his education at Fresno State College and completed his teaching credential in 1950. He taught for 1 year in Selma, California and the balance of his teaching career at Pixley Elementary School. He retired after 30 years of service.

From the time Wally was a young boy, he was an accomplished musician. He sang and played piano in his early years and during his college days added the pipe organ to his musical skills. Wally loved to bring happiness to people through his music. He was constantly busy playing for churches, memorial services, organizations including the Delano Nursing Facility and social events. When asked how he accompished so much, he would answer, "because I enjoyed doing it." He was also an avid gardner. He raised beautiful flowers, vegetables and fruit and shared his bounty with all.

Wally was preceded in death by his wife, Pat, and his daughter, Linda. Survivors include his son, Robert Snoddy of Delano, a sister, Anita Thurmond of Delano, his living friend, Mary Tabuyo, his best friend J. C. Collier, his niece Gloria Hall and her husband Norman of Bakersfield as well as several great-nieces and great-nephews.

To all those who gave love and support to Wally during his final days, the Delano Hospice, the care-givers from the Frist Methodist Church, his close friends and to all others who were there for him, the family wishes to thank you. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Delano Music Memorial Association.
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Treacy Snowden, 93
February 15, 1903 - May 16, 1996

Graveside funeral services will be held in the West Side District Cemetery Monday at 11:00 a.m. for Taft resident Treacy Snowden, 93. The Rev. Scott Pearson, pastor of the First Baptist Church, will officiate at the services.

Mrs. Snowden was born in Texas of February 15, 1903 and passed away May 16, 1996 at a local hospital. She had lived many years in Kern County and had lived in Taft since 1982.

Survivors include a daughter, Betty Walter of Taft; a sister Josephine Robbins of Stockton; her grandsons and their wives, Jerry and Betty Snowden of Bakersfield, and Dennis and Stella Snowden and Larry and Sharon Snowden, all of Taft; six grandchildren; and five great grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.

Friends may call Sunday from 3:00 p.m. until 8:30 p.m. and again Monday from 8:30 a.m. until 10:00 a.m. at the Erickson & Brown Funeral Home.
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Rosemarie F. Soares
March 15, 1930 - February 24, 2012

Cryptside funeral services will be held in the West Side District Cemetery Mausoleum on Wednesday, February 29, 2012 at 1:00 p.m. for Taft resident, Rosemarie F. Soares, was born in Pennington, New Jersey on March 15, 1930 and passed away in Taft on February 24, 2012.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Michael and Mary DeSantis; her brother, Michael De Santis, Jr.; and her son, Stephen McClard, Jr. Mrs. Soares' survivors include her four daughters, Diane Holt and Kathy Barnes both of Taft, Karen Cook of Barstow and Brenda Farquhar and her husband, Steven of Bakersfield; her daughter-in-law, Cindy McClard of Taft; her 13 grandchildren, Melissa Hughes, Cindy Inchausti, Larry Owens, Jr., Robert Holt, Nancy Fisher, Brian Holt, Kelly Long, Stacy Kanady, Stephen McClard,III, Kristy Burton, Jeremy McClard, Nickolas Chance and Jennifer McClard and 23 great grandchildren.

Friends are invited to pay their respects on Wednesday at 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon at the Erickson & Brown Funeral Home. To convey a condolences or to sign an on line registry, please visit www.EricksonAndBrown.com
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Mary Elizabeth Soeten
April 16, 1937 - December 29, 1996

Mary Elizabeth Soeten died inher Woodland residence Sunday, December 29, 1996, at age 59.
Mrs. Soeten, daughter of the late Harold (Bud) & Lousie Harrnacker, is survived by her loving husband, James H. Soeten of Woodland; daughters, Kim Louise Soeten, Melissa Ann Wiseman and husband Sam, of Bakersfield; sons, Bret Kyle, of Walnut Creek, Robert Kenneth and Jeffrey Blair, of Bakersfield, Jonathan Keith, of Oklahoma; grandchildren, Samuel Lawrence, Jacob Grey & Elizabeth Ann Wiseman, Amy Louise Christopher Ray, Joshua Ray & Matthew Carlyle Scott Soeten, all of Bakersfield. She is also survived by her brother-in-law, Curt Jones of Taft; 3 nieces; and 7 great nieces & nephews. Mrs. Soeten was preceded in death by her sister, Wilma Lou Jones in 1994.

A private service was held at McNary's Chapel in Woodland.
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Charles [Charlie] Soldano
March 13, 1914 - August 25, 2002

Charlie Soldano, 88 died on Sunday, August 25, 2002. Born and raised in Pueblo, Colorado. Charlie and his wife Rose traveled to San Jose, California where he found employment in the canning industry in 1936. He worked for Barron-Grey, Dole and Tri-Valley canneries until 1972, at which time Tri-Valley and Charlie relocated to Modesto, California where he resided until 1996. He retired from Tri-Valley in 1976 and enjoyed walking with his dog. Bowling and working in his garden of roses and vegetables.

His wife Rose passed away in 1991. In 1996 he relocated to his son Leonard's home in Los Osos, California, where he was active in the Retired Active Men (RAMS) and the South Bay Seniors, People Helping People, a non-profit organized to help seniors and those in need. He relocated to the Taft Residential Home Care Facility in July 2001.

He is survived by his sons Leonard and his wife Betty, Charles and his wife Ruth, Robert and his wife Lana and Ronald; grandchildren Cheryl Ann Hohn of Los Osos, Tony Soldano of South Carolina, Sandi Jameson of Texas, and David Soldano of Texas; great grandchildren Jason Andrews of Manteca and Dustin Soldano of San Jose; great great grandchildren Marin and Ryan Soldano of San Jose. He is preceded in death by his grandson Darrell in 1977. No services are scheduled.

All funeral arrangements are under the care of West Side Mortuary in Taft (661) 763-1594.
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Jesse W. Soles
December 30, 1944 - December 28, 2006

Jesse W. Soles, 61, passed away at his residence on December 28, 2006. at his request there will be no formal funeral service. He was born to Don and Olvea Soles on December 30, 1944.

Mr. Soles proudly served his country during the Vietnam Conflict as a member of the U.S. Army Airborne. He had been employed as a forklift operator for over 30 years. He was a life member of the NRA.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his sister, Sharon Sue Healey and a brother, Marion Hugh Soles.

Mr. Soles is survived by his siblings, Donnie Soles and his wife, Patricia of Taft, Brock Soles of Modesto, Karne Wilson and her husband, Tom, Ruby Jackson and Johnnie Soles all of Taft; his nieces and nephews, Wes and Patti Soles, Chris and Chrissy Soles all of Taft, Donny and Mike Todd of Oklahoma, Angie Jackson all of Taft, Shawana Jackson of Bakersfield and Adam Soles of Modesto; his grandchildren, Ashley and Jose Flores of Turlock and Bubba of Modesto and by several great nieces and nephews.

The arrangements are under the direction of Erickson & Brown Funeral Home.
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Marion H. "Trip" Soles
March 23, 1952 - December 7, 2004

Marion H. Soles was born March 23, 1952 in Sterling City, Texas and passed away December 7, 2004 at his home in Taft. He acquired the nickname Trip as he was the first born of a set of triplets. Trip enlisted in the United States Army where he did a tour of duty in Germany and received an honorable discharge. Trip worked a few years in the Taft oilfields, but mostly worked in maintenance. He was especially proud for working at Sea World, both in San Diego and San Francisco. He also worked at the Taft Nursing Home behind The Fort for several years.

Trip was preceded in death by his father Don Soles, mother Oleva Mark, sister, Sharon Healy, and grandparents William and Eula Gentry. He is survived by brothers Jesse Soles, Donnie Soles and wife Patricia, Brock Soles, John Soles and sisters Karen Walker and Ruby Jackson, plus nephews and nieces Donnie, Mike, Angie, Chris, Wesley, Michael, Shawna and Adam. He also leaves behind many great nieces and nephews.

There will be no visitation or services per his request.
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Jill Dobbins Solomona
February 7, 1965 - June 15, 2012

Graveside funeral services will be held on Thursday, June 1, 2012 at 10:30 a.m. in the West side District cemetery for Jill Dobbins Solomona, 47. Rev. Tom White of Cuyama Assembly of God will officiate.

Jill was born in Taft on February 7, 1965 and passed away in Bakersfield. Jill was preceded in death by her grandparents, Jim and Idella Dobbins, and Lloyd and Jessie Dillingham, and her father, David Dobbins. She is survived by her sons, Alex and Isaac Solomona; her mother, Vivian Dobbins; her sisters, Dianna Rhoten and Susan Koble; her brothers, Charles Dobbins and Kelly Dobbins, and large, extended family.

Those who wish to pay their respects may do so on Wednesday, June 20, 2012 from 3:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at the Erickson and Brown Funeral Home. To convey condolences or sign an online registry, please visit www.EricksonAndBrown.com.
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Edna M. Solvey
October 18, 1911 - November 18, 2003

A memorial service is being held at the Gateway Temple in Maricopa for long time Maricopa resident Edna Solvey who passed away November 18, 2003. Many of you will remember Edna from Edna's Diner in Maricopa.

The service will be held at 6:00 p.m. Friday, November 21st, In lieu of flowers, Edna would like you to make a special dinner for your family, celebrate life and hug each other.
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William [Bill] Songer, 84
July 20, 1916 - January 9, 2001

Graveside Service will be held for William [Bill] Songer, 84 of Paso Robles who passed away on January 9, 2001 at a Templeton Care Center, on Friday, January 12, 2001 at 11:00 a.m. at Templeton District Cemetery, officiant will be pastor Warren Alderson.

Mr. Songer was born on July 20, 1916 in Oklahoma, he was retired after working 32 years at Mobile Oil in Kern County. During this time, Mr. Songer lived in Taft, California. He moved to Paso Robles in 1984 and has lived there until his death.

Mr. Songer loved Country/Western music and fishing at Nacimiento Lake and San Antonio Lake. He enjoyed watching baseball and was involved with his grandchildren�s little league. He was also a member of the Taft V.F.W.

Mr. Songer is survived by wife Helen Mae Songer of Paso Robles, California, daughter; Priscilla Young of Paso Robles, California, sons; Glenn Songer of Lancaster, California, Ronald Songer of San Antonio, Texas.
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Marissa M. Southard
February 19, 1996 - November 24, 2003

Funeral services will be held in the Erickson & Brown Funeral Home Chapel on Saturday, November 20, 2003 at 11:00 a.m. for lifelong Taft resident, Marissa M. Southard, 7. Burial will follow in the West Side District Cemetery at a later date Rev. Trent Meadors, pastor of the First Assembly of God Church will officiate at the service.

Marissa was born in Bakersfield on February 19, 1996 and passed away in Bakersfield on November 24, 2003. Marissa attended Henry Essler Elementry School in Bakersfield and has received numerous awards. The school was also going to have Marissa help develop a new CAT test for the school.

She was preceded in death by her PaPa, Leroy Yochum, her grandpas, Sam Ingrao and her great grandpa William Morris. Marissa is survived by her parents, Mike and Sarah Southard of Taft; her sister, Miranda Lynn Maddox of Nipomo; her grandmothers, Mary Yochum and JoAnn Ingrao both of Taft; her great grandmother, Betty Morris of Dinuba; her uncles and aunts, Robby Yochum of Taft, Pattie Bagwell of Oakhurst, Wanda and George Miller of Taft, Frances Canida of Taft and Ronnie James of Modesto; and by numerous other aunts, uncles and cousins.

There are no visitation hours scheduled and the arrangements are under the direction of the Erickson & Brown Funeral Home.
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Wanda Mae Southerland
September 9, 1926 - February 22, 2002

Wanda entered into rest February 22 in San Jose.

She was born in Taft of parents George and Mae Ayers, September 9, 1926. The beloved wife of the late William C. Southerland, she was the loving mother of Randy A. Petty, also of San Jose, and the aunt of Gene Tessandori of Taft.

Wanda was preceded in death by her sisters Dorothy B. Abrams and Mary C. Tryon both of Taft.
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Esther K. Sowles, 78
January 8, 1919 - March 30 1997

Funeral services will be held Wednesday at 2:00 p.m. at the First Assembly of God Church on Asher Street for long-time West Side resident Esther Katherine Sowles, 78. Burial will follow at the West Side District Cemetery. The Rev. Dan Campbell will officiate at the services.

Mrs. Sowles was born in Greeley, Colorado, on January 8, 1919 and passed away in Taft on March 30, 1997. She had lived in Kern County for 70 years, of which 45 of those years were spent in the Taft and Fellows area. She was an active member of the First Assembly of God Church, as well as the Womens's Ministries, Christian Education, nursing home and prison Ministries. Mrs. Sowles was an outstanding softball player and in the 1930's she was a catcher for Viola Abbott. She had been employed for 15 years in the business office of McMahan's Funiture Store.

Mrs. Sowles is survived by her son and his wife, Murle and Galil Sowels of Taft; her daughter, Susan Harris of Bakersfield; her brother, Walt Prince; her sister, Clara Appleman; five grandchildren; and two great grandchildren.

Visitation will be held Tuesday until 8:30 p.m. and again on Wednesday from 8:30 a.m. until 12:30 p.m. at the Erickson & Brown Funeral Home.
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Earline F. Spangler, 72
May 14, 1934 - January 14, 2007

Graveside funeral services were held in the West Side District Cemetery on Friday, January 19, 2007, for Taft resident, Earline F. Spangler was born in Pauls Valley, Oklahoma on May 14, 1934 and passed away at her son's home on January 14, 2007. She had lived in Taft years. Mrs. Spangler enjoyed playing Bingo, her lucky trips to Las Vegas and Elvis Presley. She was preceded in death by her parents, Samuel and Nettie Green; her two sons, Timothy and Thomas Flanigan; her sister, Glenola Green; her brother, Leroy Green.

Her survivors include her husband of 40 years, Bill Spangler of Taft; her son and his wife, Patrick N. and Gloria Flanigan of Taft; her siblings and their spouses, Ivan and Polly Green, Doris and Al Dingle, Rebecca and Shelby Ray, George Green and Eugene and Loyce Green; her step-children, Pete and Linda Spangler, Don and Patty Spangler, Cathryn and George Palston, Adele and Alan Ward and Ray and Dawn Spangler; her grandchildren, Jason Flanigan, Brock Flanigan and fiance, Krystal Blind, Wesley Flanigan and his friend, Leileh Cordero and April Flanigan; her great grandchildren, Jordan Flanigan, Tyson Flanigan and Sierra Beach; a special daughter, Liz Yingst, many nieces and nephews and her Bingo buddies and many friends.

The family wishes to thank Optimal Hospice and Kitty Shinn for all their help and kindness. The services were under the direction of the Erickson & Brown Funeral Home.
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Jenny Sparks, 47
January 2, 1949 - January 23, 1996

Graveside funeral services will be held Friday at 2:00 p.m. in the West Side District Cemetery for Maricopa resident Jenny Sparks, 47.

Jenny was born in Tulare on January 2, 1949 and passed away in Bakersfield on January 23, 1996.

Her survivors include her mother, Silva Browning of Houston, Texas; two aunts, Florence Dean of Maricopa and Judy Melton of Taft; and several other family members.

There are no visitation hours scheduled. The arrangements are under the direction of the Erickson & Brown Funeral Home.
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Justin Frank Spears
July 24, 1930 - January 8, 2004

Memorial Service will be held Saturday, January 10th at 10:00 a.m. at the First Assembly of God Church at 314 Asher Ave., Taft.

Frank was preceded in death by his parents, 1 brother, 3 sisters, his wife Wanda and daughter Shirley. His survivors include 2 sisters, Dorth and Alma, 4 children, Frank, Carla Judy and Dee Dee, 10 grandchildren. Frank will be greatly missed by his loving family and many friends.
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Barbara A. Specht
December 1, 1925 - November 29, 2007

On November 29, 2007, two days before her 82nd birthday, Barbara Specht went home to be with the Lord.

The youngest of four children, she was born in Bakersfield to Rex and Emma Layfield. In 1943 she graduated from Taft High School and subsequently attended a business college in Los Angeles. Throughout her years in Taft, Barbara was employed as a bookkeeper by Honolulu Oil Company, Mobile Oil Company, and Dr. John F. Ellis. Following her retirement, she enjoyed working part-time for her daughter and son-in-law at Buena Vista Golf Course. In August of 1953 she married Jack Specht. They spent 30 wonderful years together fishing, traveling, raising Barbara's daughter, Maria, and later spoiling their two grandchildren, Jennifer and Jeff. She loved and was loved by all of her family, friends, and neighbors and will be remembered for her love of God, for her longtime interest in ceramics and coin collecting and especially for her devotion to her little dog, Abby.

Barbara was preceded in death by her husband, Jack "Jay"; sister, Margaret Cameron; and brother, Bill Layfield. She will be missed by her daughter and son-in-law Maria and Dave James of Taft; granddaughter and husband, Jennifer and Chris Tozlian of Clovis; grandson, Jeff James of Taft; sister, Pauline Hayes of Terra Bella; and five nieces and nephews.

Graveside services to celebrate her life and her homecoming will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, December 5th, at the West Side District Cemetery, in Taft. In Lieu of flowers donations may be made to Hoffmann Hospice. There are no visitation hours scheduled and the arrangements are under the direction of the Erickson & Brown Funeral Home.
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Raymond Robert Speck
November 19, 1920 - November 10, 2002

Raymond Robert Speck died on November 10, 2002, from injuries sustained in an auto accident, in Bakersfield, California on November 4, 2002.

Raymond was born on November 19, 1920, in Taft, California to Auby and Della (Prilgrim) Speck. He retired from the Kern County Fire Dept., as a Captain in 1978, after 26 years of service. Before moving to Bakerfield, he was a long-time resident of Tehachapi, California.

Raymond is survived by his beloved wife of 49 years, Gloria (Salcido) Speck; four sons and 2 daughters-in-law, Steven and Debra Speck of Bakersfield, Raymond Speck of Wasilla, Arkansas, David and Connie Speck of Mt. Shasta, and Dennis Christian of Oak Harbor, Washington; 13 grandchildren, Zachary, Lindsay, Rachel, Travis, Stefanie, Misty, and Michael Speck, Lesa and Michael Irvine, Dean Kimberly and Porsche Christian, Christa Edminster, and 3 great grand children. He was preceded in death by his parents, 4 sisters, Mildred Speck, Lois Speck, Ione Stanley, and Wilma Hickman, and brother, Russell Speck.

A graveside service will be held Saturday, November 16, at 11:00 a.m. at Hillcrest Memorial Cemetery. The Speck family wishes to thank the doctors and nurses at Kern Medical Center for their dedication and the excellent care they provided for Dad and Mom.
Hillcrest Memorial Park & Mortuary
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Carol Spell
August 13, 1933 - March 30, 2003

Juanita Carol Bridgewater was born in Corning, Arkansas on August 13, 1933 to Helen and Lynn Bridgewater and passed away in Clarksville, Tennessee on March 30, 2003.

Carol met Carl Spell in Taft, and they were married on August 12, 1974. Carol and Carl lived in Derby Acres from 1976 to 1991 when they relocated to Logan, Utah. After Carl's death Carol eventually moved to Clarksville, Tennessee to be closer to her son and family. Her husband, Carl Spell; her oldest son, Gary Bridgewater; and her parents preceded Carol in death.

Carol will be missed by her family, including: children, Bob and Linda Boss, Jim and Teresa Boss, and Caye Thomas; grandchildren, Sarah and Brian Bernstein, Rhoda and Shawn Burke, Melanie Boss, Jeffery Boss and Carrie Boss; step-children, Gail Huffmon and Gary Spell; siblings, Lou Bridgewater, Tykie Draper, Larry Fine, Roy Fine and Janie Walker; numerous step-grandchildren and great grandchildren.

The families of Carol and Carl Spell invite you to celebrate Carol's life with us on May 3, 2003 at the P.A.C.E. Union Hall, 217 Kern Street, Taft, California from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Carol enjoyed her years of raising horses and traveling as a horse trailer sales representative with Carl. With that in mind, Carol's family would ask that in lieu of flowers a donation be made in the name of Carol Spell to M.A.R.E. Riding Center, 18200 Johnson Road, Bakersfield, California 93312, or a charity of your choice.
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Jay Tilton Spence
December 23, 1969 - January 19, 2003

No services are scheduled for West Hollywood resident, Jay Tilton Spence. Jay was born in Iowa on December 23, 1969 to John and Susan Spence and he passed away on January 19, 2003 in California City at the age of 33.

Jay was employed as a photographer for the past five years of his life.

He is survived by his parents John and Susan Spence of Bakersfield, California and by several other family and friends in Iowa.

All funeral arrangements are being handled through West Side family Mortuary. (661) 763-1594
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William E. "Gene" Spence, 76
September 22, 1926 - October 4, 2002

William Eugene Spence passed away at Bakersfield Memorial Hospital on October 4th. A native Taftian, Gene, as he generally was known to friends and family, was born September 22, 1926 to Irma Lucille and William Cowan Spence.

After service in the U.S. Navy during WWII, he returned home and married Jeanette Gibson in 1950.

She preceded him in death in 1994. Gene worked for more than thirty years for Safeway Stores, retiring in 1981. He was a member of the Taft Pilots Association and an RC model airplane enthusiast.

He leaves a daughter, Kimberly Delkener of Taft, a son, Rick Spence, of Moscow, Idaho and six grandchildren.

A graveside service will be held Tuesday, October 8th at 2:00 p.m. at the West Side District Cemetery. Those who wish to pay their respects may do so on Monday from 3:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. and again on Tuesday from 8:30 to 1:00 p.m. at the Erickson & Borwn Funeral Home. The arrangements are under the direction of the Erickson & Brown Funeral Home.
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Jim Spradlin
August 31, 1935 - January 25, 2005

Graveside services will be held in Greenlawn Memorial Park, 3200 River Blvd., for Jim Spradlin, 69 who passed away January 25, 2005. Pastor John Maroney will officiate. Jim Spradlin a lifetime oil man and self employed provider will be greatly missed.

He leaves behind his devoted wife Clara and six children Roybyn, Troy, Debra, Fawn, Julia, and Cal. He is also survived by nine grandchidren as well as two great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his son Robert Campbell in 1996. Jim well be loving remembered for his sense of humor his one liners, his love of fast cars and fast boats. Everyone whose life was touched by Jim will not soon forget his strong will and winning personality. The family and friends of Jim Spradlin give their gracious thanks to Optimal Hospice Care. Greenlawn Mortuary Funeral Directors
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Estella Springer
March 6, 1912 - March 14, 1997

Services will be held in Greenlawn Memorial Chapel, 3700 River Blvd., Wednesday March 19, at 1:30 p.m. for Estella Springer, 85, who passed away March 14, 1997, in Bakersfield. Dr. Marvin Kilgore will officiate.

Mrs. Springer was born March 6, 1912, in Temple, Oklahoma and resided in Kern County for 57 years. She was a longtime member of the Frist Assembly of God Church in Bakersfield and Taft.

She was preceded in death by her first husband Sam Murphy and husband James Springer. Mrs. Springer loved to do hand knitting and crocheting. She is survived by her brother Emmit Smith of Bakersfield; sisters Idella Dobbins of Taft and Oma Sullivan of Riverdale; step-sons James M. and Albert E. Springer: step-daughter Dorothy I. McLaughlin, all of Highlandville, Missouri: and special sister-in-law Georgia Farmer of Bakersfield and niece Nellie Bazzel of Taft. Mrs. Springer was a second mother to several nieces and nephews.

Visitation begins Tuesday at 3 p.m.
Greenlawn Mortuary Funeral Directors
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Hazel Leona Sproul
December 14, 1915 - December 25, 1906

Private services were held in Greenlawn Memorial Chapel for Hazel Leona Sproul, 81, who passed away December 25, 1996 in Bakersfield. Pastors Marc Mullins and Jeff Jackson officiated.

Mrs. Sproul was born December 14, 1915, in Logan, Oklahoma and resided in Kern County for 76 years. She was raised in Taft. She attended California School for the Deaf in Berkeley and later attended Bakersfield Collage and received an Associates Degree. Mrs. Sproul had worked in the purchasing department at Contel for 7 years and later retired. She was one of the founders of the Deaf Club of Bakersfield in the early 1950's and remained an active member. She was also a member of the First Christian Church Disciples of Christ.

She was preceded in death by her former husband Gilbert Sproul and son, Terry D. Sproul. Survivors include her son and daughter-in-law, Jimmy and Phyllis Sproul of Benicia; granddaughters, Dawn Martin and Angela Gill; brother, Melvin Smith of Los Gatos; sisters-in-law, Bobbie Sproul and Mary De Mello; nephews, Marlon, Myron and Marshall Smith and other living nieces and nephews and longtime friend and interpreter Faye Wilkie.

Donations may be made in her name to First Christian Church Disciples of Christ, 1660 S.Street, Bakersfield. Casketbearers were Marlon Smith, Myron Smith, Marshall Smith, Kyle Smith, Kevin Smith and Jose Gonzalez.
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Bert R. Spruitenburg
June 2, 1945 - January 23, 2011

Bert R. Spruitenburg, born June 2, 1945, entered eternal life Sunday, January 23, 2011, following a lengthly illness. Bert was a longtime employee of EUI in Taft, California and a former employee of Southern California Edison. He was a "legend" on the Hill, and we were all fortunate enough to be a part of his life. Bert was an amazing man, portraying qualities that left many of his lifelong loyal friends saddened by his departure. His humor, generosity and sensitivity were cherished by all, and he will be missed greatly.

Bert is survived by his children Kristi (Bobby) Malone, Gerald (Tracy) Spruitenburg, Adrianna (Tom) Heath, his sister Geraldine Mancebo, and his brother Bill (Patsy) Spruitenburg. In addition, Bert also leaves his many grandchildren and several nieces and nephews. He is remembered dearly by his devoted friends JR, Toby and Shirley. He is preceded in death by his parents Arie and Gertie Spruitenburg,and brother-in-law Eugene Mancebo.

To celebrate Bert's life and accomplishments and pay tribute to a wonderful man, a gathering will be held at 12:00 p.m. on Saturday, January 29th, 2011 at George Thompson's house.
When you drink a beer think of Bert!
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Chelca Stacy
April 15, 1926 - October 25, 2010

Chelca passed away at home with his family by his side. He was a hardworking man, who loved his family deeply.

He is survived by his wife of 57 years, Myrtle, son Dennis (Melanie) Stacy, daughter Jancie (James) Lee, four grandchildren, nine great grandchildren, brother Troy (Brenda) Stacy, sister, Inus (George) James and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, three sisters, one brother and a daughter Joyce.

At his request there will be no viewing. Graveside services will be held Saturday, October 30th at 10:00 a.m. at Westside Cemetery in Taft, California. Pallbearers will be Troy Stacy, Dennis Stacy, James Lee, Jamie Edwards, Sean Ornelas and Rosendo Siason.

The family would like to say a special " Thank You" to all the wonderful people at CBCC and to the people of Hoffman Hospice for all your help, and also to all the friends and family for all the food and well wishes.
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Edward C. Stacy
December 26, 1937 - January 24, 2009

Edward C. Stacy was born December 26, 1937 in Hanford, California and passed away on January 24, 2009.

He was born to Evelyn and Edward Stacy of Lemoore where he grew up and attended local schools, graduating from Lemoore High in 1955. He was enlisted in the United States Army and was honorably discharded in 1964. He married Kathleen Reder and they woud have celebrated their 45th wedding anniversary on Febrary 28, 2009. Ed was a dedicated employee of Chevron USA for 34 years. He loved hunting, fishing and instilled his passion for the great outdoors on to his children.

He is survived by his wife, Kathleen, daughter Shelley (Stacy) Mitchell and her husband Dave, daughter Julie (Stacy) Whiteside and her husband Tom. Brother Gene Stacy and his wife Karen, brother Earl Stacy and his wife Clara, grandchildren Bryce Edward, Zachary, Morgan and Ryan and cousins, nieces, and nephews along with his many good friends.

Services will be held in Lemoore, California and are under the direction of the Phelpsdale Funeral Home. Please contact the funeral home at 559-924-5611 for service time and date. Ed was passionate about his 2nd amemdment rights. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the National Rifle Asssociation in his honor.
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Junell King Stallworth
February 21, 1915 - March 6, 2003

Junell King Stallworth, age 88, of Austin, died Thursday, March 6, 2003. Memorial services will be held on Saturday, March 15, 2003 at the Pavilion at Remembrance Gardens in Austin, Texas.

Arrangements by Weed-Corley-Fish Funeral Home, 3125 N. Lamar, Austin, Texas 78705.
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Larry A. Stanfield, 72
February 8, 1923 - November 1, 1995

Larry Allred Stanfield, 72, resident of the Moreland, Idaho area since 1978, died at his home November 1, following a lenghty illness.

Mr. Stanfield was born February 8, 1923 in Salt Lake City, Utah, the only son of Alma Ceburn and Bellva Elizabeth Allred Stanfield. He attended schools in California, graduating from Taft Union High School in 1940. He then joined the U.S.Navy at 17, serving in World War II until February 1946, and earned the rank of chief aviation boatswain mate.

Mr. Stanfield was married to Muriel Lucille Tatjes on March 20, 1945 in San Diego. Their vows were later solemnized in the the Los Angeles LDS Temple on April 1, 1958. After his discharge, Mr. Stanfield attended Whittier College and then taught at the Central Valley High School in Redding for 22 years. He was a lifetime member of the California Teachers Association and served two terms on the Board of Directors of the Shasta Dam Public Utilities District.

Mr. Stanfield was a High Priest in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and had served in various callings including bishop, high councilman for nine years, Young Men's president and Sunday School president. At the time he became ill he was serving as High Priests; group leader and name extractor in the Family History Program. He devoted more than 35 years of his life to service in the Boy Scouts of America, as a scoutmaster and various other leadership positions.

Mr. Stanfield was preceded in death by a grandson, Flint Adin Stanfield. He is survived by his wife, Muriel Stanfield of Moreland; two sons and their wives, Jeffrey Lynn and Audrey Stanfield of Moreland and Steven Matthew and Kaui Stanfileld of Blackfoot, Idaho; two daughters, Mrs. Lawrence R. "Dick" (Kimber Lee) Thomas of Moreland and Mrs. Tracy (Kathryn Susan) Goodwin of Fair Oaks; two sisters, Mrs. Kenneth "Doots" (Virginia) Varley of Bakersfield and Lucille Arnoldus of Taft and 18 grandchildren.
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Barbara Ruth Stanley
December 17, 1933 - July 3, 1997

Barbara Ruth Stanley was born in Taft, California December 17, 1933 and passed away July 3, 1997 in Bakersfield. Graveside services are tentatively set for 9:00 a.m. at the West Side District Cemetery in Taft on Tuesday, July 8, 1997. A memorial service will be held at 11:00 a.m. at the University Baptist Church in Bakersfield. Dr. Charles Revis will be conducting both services. The Oildale Chapter #559 Order of the Eastern Star will assist at the graveside service.

She was educated in the Taft School District and graduated from Bakersfield College. Barbara retired from the Kern County Welfare Department as a social worker for 30 years. Over the years, she also worked for the Kern County Sheriff's Office, Bank of America, Greenfield State Bank, General Petroleum Corp., (Mobil Oil), Artnell Oil and Gas, Tejon Ranch, and was owner of the Superior Secretarial Service and also was secretary of the First Baptist Church of Taft. Barbara was active in the community. She was a past president of the Oildale Business & Professional Women, the Oildale Chapter #559 Order of the Eastern Star, Pacesetters Chapter of the American Business Women's Association and a member of the University Baptist Church.

She will be greatly missed by her sister, Melba Mc Adam and husband Ray; niece, Alice Olson and husband John; aunt, Frances Anderson; sister-in-law, Sally Rogers; nieces and nephews, Bob and Lynne Olson in Spokane, Washington, Kathy and Matt Merwin and Bill and Tracy Olson of Mission Viejo; cousins, Willa Mae and Melvin McDowell, Bakersfield, Jim and Pat Anderson,Thousand Oaks and Judy Warren, San Diego, Barbara had a great many great nieces, and great nephews and lots of friends.

She was preceded in death by her two brothers John Ray Rodgers and Earl E.Rogers.

The family requests that donations be made in Barbara' memory to the University Baptist Church, 2515 Church Street, Bakersfield, California 93306, or the the charity of your choice.
Doughty-Calhoun-O'Meara Funeral Directors
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Ione Stanley
December 15, 1915 - December 31, 1995

Graveside funeral services will be held Wednesday at 1:00 p.m. in the West Side District Cemetery for Taft resident Ione Stanley, 80. The Rev. Mark Roberts, pastor of New Hope Temple, will officiate at the services.

Mrs. Stanley was born in Muskogee, Oklahoma, on December 15, 1915 and passed away December 31, 1995 in a local nursing home. She was raised and educated in Taft and attended Taft Union High School.

She was preceded in death by a son, Dalbert Ray Stanley, in August 1957. She is survived by her husband, Ray Stanley of Taft; her children and their spouses, Barbara and Jack Houx of Taft and Ralph and Gloria Stanley of Simpsonville, South Carolina; a brother, Raymond Speck of Tehachapi; four grandchildren, Kurt Freeman, Barry Freeman, James D. Stanley and Susan L. Lewis; and six great-grandchildren.

Visitation will be held at the Erickson & Brown Funeral Home.
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Kathleen "Kay" Stanley
July 27, 1929 - September 13, 2012

Kathleen "Kay" Stanley, 83 of Visalia, California and passed away on September 13, 2012 in Visalia, California.

Kay was born in Scottsbluff, Nebraska on July 27, 1929 to John and Mary Allgaier. Her family moved to Taft, California when Kay was 10 where he finished her education, graduating from Taft High School in 1947. Kay worked for Southern California Gas Company as a Payroll Clerk during her younger years and then after her daughter was born, she spent her time being a devoted wife and mother. Kay was an accomplished seamstress, enjoyed toll painting, wallpapering, golfing, home decoration and playing bridge with her friends. She especially enjoyed spending time with her three granddaughters.

Kay was preceded in by her parents, John and Mary Allgaier, her husband Lester Edwin Stanely in 2004 and her son-in-law, Rudy in 2004. Kay leaves to cherish her memory, her daughter, Claudia Duarte of Visalia, California; two sisters, Betty Zink (Wolfe) and Patty Riechel, both of Phoenix, Arizona; three granddaughters, Kathleen Pickens of Visalia, California, Adrienne Duarte of Visalia, California and Sarah Vickers of Sacramento, California and four very great grandchildren.

Graveside services will be held on Thursday, September 20, 2012 at 10:30 a.m. at the Visalia District Cemetery. Condolences may be made at www.millerchapel.com. Arrangements entrusted to Miller Memorial Chapel, 1120 W. Goshen Avenue, Visalia, California 93291.
Miller Memorial Chapel
(559)732-8371
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Robert "Bob" Dale Stanley
October 11, 1934 - March 26, 2010

Bob Stanley was born in Fellows, California and attended school in Fellows and Taft. His family raised chickens, which Bob would deliver to the feed store on his way to Taft Union High School. After attending Taft College Bob joined the National Guard and was stationed at Camp Pendleton for six months. At Camp Pendelton he was awarded a Marksmenship Badge. After his time in the National Guard, Bob worked for his brother-in-law, Bill Gill until he went to work as a welder for Bellridge Oil in 1958. Bellridge Oil eventually became Shell Oil, and Bob worked there until his retirement as a drilling foreman in 1991.

In 1962, Bob married Betty Collins Nabors, and ten years later they had a daughter Robyn. With Shell Oil, the Stanley family was transferred to Midland, Texas for five years, and then eventually back to Bakersfield. After retirement, Bob and Betty traveled to Washington, Laughlin, the Central Coast of California, and to visit their daughter in San Francisco on numerous occasions. Bob was not a big gambler in Laughlin and could really stretch his dollar in the casinos. He mainly loved going to Laughlin to see shows, each good dinners, and people watch. Bob really enjoyed relaxing, reading the news paper and magazines, watching the news and old western films, going out to restrants and clipping coupons. He also had a great fondness for motorcycles and old cars. Bob loved animals and took care of many dogs and cats throughout his life. His tortoiseshell cat Sabrina, will miss him very much.

Bob leaves behind Betty, his wife of 48 years; his daughter Robyn Stanley and her husband Doug Downen and new granddaughter Astrid Downen, all of San Francisco; a sister, Lucille Haney of Taft; his very special niece, Deborah Strosnider of Taft, and numerous other nieces and nephews. Bob was preceded in death by two brothers and two sisters.

Bob passed away from complications related to Alzheimer's Disease, so the family asks that in lieu of flowers to please send donations to the Alzheimer's Disease Association of Kern County or to Hoffman Hospice. A memorial to celebrate Bob's life will be held on Tuesday, March 30th at 6:00 p.m. at Erickson & Brown Funeral Home at 501 Lucard Street in Taft, California.
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Warren Ray Stanley
June 16, 1913 - February 12, 2003

Mr. Warren Ray Stanley, age 89, died Wednesday, February 12, 2003 at Williamson Medical Center in Franklin, Tennessee. Mr. Stanley was born in Fellows, California son of the late Williams Ray and Stella Minton Stanley.

He retired after 29 years with Honolulu Oil Corp., worked with various other oil companies after retiring. He recently moved to the Franklin/Spring Hill, Tennessee area to be with family.

He is preceded in death by his wife, Ione Stanley, his son, Dalbert Stanley and his daughter, Barbara Houx. He is survived by his son, Ralph Stanley and fianc'e, Patricia Welling of Spring Hill, Tennessee; his brother, Robert D. Stanley of Bakersville, California; his sisters, Lucille Haney of Taft, California and Helen Patin of Taft, California; four grandchildren and one great-great grandchild.

Memorial services will be conducted at 11:00 a.m. Monday, March 3, 2003 at New Hope Temple in Taft, California Spring Hill Memorial Park and Funeral Home, 5239 Main Street, Spring Hill, Tennessee is in charge of the local arrangements. (931) 486-0059
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Mary Ellen (aka Grammy) Stanton
February 7, 1937 - June 12, 2012

Mary Ellen (aka Granny) Stanton, 75, passed away quietly in her home on Tuesday, June 12th, 2012. She was born in McFarland, California to Jose and Sara Baisa, who precede her in death. She is also preceded in death by her younger brothers Benny and Alexander Baisa. She is survived by her brothers Joe and Robert Baisa, and her sisters Adeleine Sanchez and Stella Banuelos, daughters Irene Moody and Marie Cocova, her grandchildren, Derrick Waterfield, Marianne Hoffman, Candice Williams, Lisa Reyes, Malinde Costagliola, Melissa Hoffman, and great grandchildren, Jadon and Ava Neher.

Mary was devoted in every sense of the word: Devoted to her children and grandchildren, devoted to her employment, and most of all devoted in her service to the almighty God, Jehovah. Since finding the truth in 1965 and symbolizing her dedication to proclaiming the truth as one of Jehovah's witnesses on February 10th, 1970, Mary used all that life had given her to fuel her appreciation and love for Jehovah's promise and blessing. She fondly remembered for documenting every of her children's lives with the 'clicks' of her disposable cameras. A very fashionable lady, she was always seen wearing coordinating colors, right down to the earrings and bracelets. Mary was a strong capable, independent woman, with boundless energy, even after reluctantly retiring at age 66. She cared for and worked tirelessly for her family and friends, giving generously to make them happy.

One of the more specialized ways she provided was her talents as a seamstress, sewing and crocheting clothes for her beloved girls making sure to add length to the pants and lace to the dresses. Mary also had a fondness for birds, and raised several. Her visitors were often greeted by their happy chirps, and Mary would often be caught whistling back. It is those precious memories that those blessed to know her will miss most. For now, as she rests, a hole in our hearts will remain until Jehovah's promise that she so faithfully endured for is fulfilled: "Do not marvel at this, for the hour is coming in which all those in the memorial tombs will here his voice and come out, those who did good things to a resurrection of life, those who practiced vile things to a resurrection of judgement" John 5:28,29.

A memorial service will be conducted in the Kingdom Hall of Jehovah's Witness at 705 South 10th Street on Saturday, June 30th at 2:00 p.m.
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Gladys Lois Staples
June 22, 1912 - January 31, 1937

Private funeral services were held this afternooon at 3:00 p.m. at the West Side Cemetery for Mrs. Gladys Lois Staples, who passed away Sunday in a Bakersfield hospital. Mrs. Staples had been ill but a short time.

Mrs. Staples was born in Long Beach, June 22, 1912 and is survived by her husband George Staples of 309 Calvin Street, an employee of the General Petroleum Corporation: two children a four month old son and a daughter 2 1/2 years if age, and her parents.
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Mae Staples
November 29, 1908 - September 14, 2001

Saturday evening, long time Taft resident, Aszenia Mae Staples, went to be with her Lord. Mae was born in Dexter, Missouri in November 29, 1908, to Charles Fuller and Allie McFarlen West.

She passed away September 14, 2001, at Mercy Westside Hospital; two months shy of her ninety-third birthday. Mae was preceded in death by her parents; by Paul Leon Wright, he husband of six years in 1934; by George Wilfred Staples, her husband of 42 years in 1985; and by her son, Donald Leon Wright, in 1998. She also lost her siblings and their spouses: Archie and Ellen West, Clara and Tom Vineyard, Arvin and EV West, Calvin and Gladys West, Cecil and Ruby West, Charles Alvie and Mary Frances West, Ann and Veron Pruitt, and Dale and Ilene West. Family was very important to Mae. She could be counted on to remember everyone's birthdays and the names of all of her extended family members. Her mourners include her daughter, Virginia Napoleon and husband Rod: stepson, David Staples and wife Shirley; and daughter-in-law, Dene Wright. Also surviving her are her grandchildren: Erlene and Charlie Smith, Cherie Napoleon, Steven and Valerie Wright, Brian Clark and Brenda Staples. Debbie and Rob Machado, John and Sherry Staples, Keith Staples, Teri and Steve Bolerjack, Michael Staples, Neal and Laurie Staples, and Kristen and Vern Bankston, also her brother, John West and wife Norma Louise; her twenty-three beloved great-grandchildren and five great great grandchildren of whom she was very proud. She will also be missed by her special niece, Doris Longtin and husband Vern.

Mae had been an active member of the Church of Christ since 1924, and taught Sunday school in the Taft church for forty years. She was devoted to the Lord and enjoyed doing His work. A charter member of AARP on the Westside, a member of the VFW Ladies Auxiliary, the Grandmother's Club, and Westside Senior Citizens. Mae also served as president of each of these organizations. Prior to moving to Taft, Mae owned a beauty parlor in Wasco for two years, then for thirty years she worked as a beautician at the Maison Maree Beauty Salon in Taft Heights. After her retirement, she continued to "do" her "little ol" ladies (many of whom were younger than she). She also enjoyed traveling, camping, and visits with family and friends. Mae was known as a generous hostess and for her terrific pies and preserves, often made with fruit picked during her travels. She enjoyed crocheting afghans for everyone, especially the new babies, and rug making. Mae was a kind and generous woman who will be missed by those of us who knew and loved her. She wished for everyone to know the love she shared with her Lord. In her own words Mae's last wishes were that we, "Don't leave God out of your lives. Put Jesus first. Go to church.

Funeral services will be held on Thursday at 11:00 a.m. at the Taft Church of Christ, 305 S. 10th Street. Officiating at the services will be Mr. Jerry Botts. Interment will follow in the West Side District Cemetery. Visitation will be on Wednesday from 3:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. and again on Thursday from 8:30 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. at the Erickson & Brown Funeral Home.
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Robin Lee Starkey
January 25, 1955 - April 3, 2010

There will be no services scheduled for Taft resident, Robin L. Starkey, 55. The arrangements are under the direction of the West Side Memorial Services, Porteous Family.
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Robert Lee Starkey
April 22, 1927 - September 16, 2003

Taft resident Robert Lee Starkey passed away September 16, 2003 in Taft, California.
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Frieda Lucille Pierce Stave
August 28, 1918 - May 9, 2011

Frieda, 91 years old, was born to Tobe Jay and Rose Belle Pierce in Taft, California. She Attended schools in Taft, California including Taft Junior College, Frieda was also a former Job's Daughters Queen in Taft. She married in 1937 to Roy Kenneth Stave. The had two beautiful daughters from this union. Linda Kaye Stave Holloway Hylton and Marian Carol Stave.

Frieda was preceded in death by her parents; her brother, T. James Pierce; sisters, Dorothy Pierce Brown and Beverly Pierce Kelly. Her ex-husband, Roy K. Stave preceded her August of 2010. She is survived by daughter, Marian C. Stave of Lompoc, California; daughter, Linda K. Hylton and husband Bill of Delano, California; granddaughters, Marcy Ladd and husband Mark of Bakersfield, Ellen Robnett and husband Mike of Eureka, California; great grandsons, Mason and Matt Ladd of Bakersfield, California; great granddaughters, Chole and Isabel Robnett of Eureka, California; nephew, Mike Kelly; niece, Anne Kelly and husband George Soneff; niece, Laurie Korpal and husband Bob; great nephews, Michael Soneff and John Soneff; greatnieces, Jill Korpal Shanmagusundarum and husband Murray, and their son Max, Judy Korpal Badoyan and husband Sebouth and their children Nicolette, Christopher, and Devin. Frieda was known as "YAYA" by her great grand children "G-ma Frieda" by her great granddaughters; "MAMA" by daughter Linda; and "MAMMA" by daughter Marian. she is missed greatly by all her friends and family in Delano and Lompoc., especially Noel and Paul.

"Rest in peace in the arms of Jesus
until we see you again MAMA!"

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, July 9th, 11:00 a.m., at the Delano First United Methodist Church.

Lane Family Funeral Home.
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Betty Ann Chambers Stearman Rubright
October 3, 1941 - May 1, 2010

Graveside funeral services will be held in the West Side District Cemetery on Thursday afternoon at 2:00 p.m. for Taft resident, Betty Ann Chambers Stearman Rubright, 68. Rev. Joey Pittman, pastor of New Hope Temple will officiate. Mrs. Rubright was born on October 3, 1941 in Pawhuska, Oklahoma and passed away in Bakersfield, California on May 1, 2010. She had lived in Taft since 1958 and attended New Hope Temple. She had been employed as a clerk and cashier at Johnson's Liquor Store, Courgar Country and for many years at the Outpost. Many of her customers will remember her for her long long hair. Mrs. Rubright was a very caring and giving person.

She was preceded in death by her son Gregory Stearman; her brother "Jockey" Chambers and her step-grandson, Robert Robison. Mrs. Rubright is survived by her daughter and her husband, Lisa and Lance Tweedy; her parents, J.D. and Dora Chambers, all of Taft; her sister and her husband Patricia and Ken Beard of Kansas; her brother and his wife, Darrell and Julia Chambers of Taft; her grandchildren, Lindsay and Chad Kendall and Alex Stearman and a very special grandson, Tyler Royal; her step-children, Jeffery and his wife Valerie Rubright, her great grandchildren, Lyrik and Makenna; nephew, Kenny and Debbie Beard and niece Kimberly Rawles; several step-children and many other nieces and nephews and cousins.

There are no visitation hours scheduled and the services are under the direction of the Erickson & Brown Funeral Home. www.EricksonAndBrown.com
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Lela Steel, 81
January 31, 1920 - July 19, 2001

Graveside funeral services will be held in the West Side District Cemetery on Tuesday, July 24th 2001 at 11:00 a.m. for longtime Taft resident, Lela Steel, 81.

The Order of the Eastern Star #323, the Taft Rebekahs Lodge #343 and Pastor Rick Francis, pastor of the First Congregational Church will officiate at the service. Mrs. Steel was born in Winchell, Texas on January 31, 1920 and passed away in Bakersfield on July 19, 2001.

Mrs. Steel has been a member of the Order of the Eastern Star #323 and the Taft Rebekahs Lodge #343 for many years.

She was preceded in death by her husband, L.D. Steel in 1986 and by her great-grandson, Michael Owens in 1991. Her survivors include her son and his wife, O.B. and Judy Bradley of Neelyville, Missouri; her daughter and her husband, Jean and Bill Shumate of Taft; her stepchildren, Mary Smith of Phoenix, Arizona and David Lee Steel of Taft; her brother Joe Pierce of Crew, Texas; her two sisters, Virginia Smith of Wharton, Texas and Ruth Dawkins of Tow, Texas, her granddaughter and her husband, Cheryl and Merle Minter of Taft; her five great-grandchildren, and eight great-great-grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.

Friends may pay their respects on Monday from 3:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. and again on Tuesday from 8:30 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. at the Erickson & Brown Funeral Home.
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George C. Steinmetz, 84
September 11, 1916 - April 10, 2001

George Steinmetz, 84, of Caycos, died Tuesday, April 10, 2001, at his home. A private inurement will take place at Morro Bay-Cayucos Cemetery.

Mr. Steinmetz was born September 11, 1916, in Bakersfield, California. He was in the Merchant Marines during WWII. After graduating from high school, he worked for the Standard Oil Company in Taft. Later, going back to school and getting a degree in Health and Sanitation at the University of California, in Berkeley. He was employed with the Kern County Health Department as a registered Sanitation Officer in charge of Water Sanitation & Control until he retired in 1976, and moved to Cayucos.

He loved football and fishing and was a past member with the Elks 322 Kamper Klub, and had served as Wagon Master in 1979-80. He was also a past member of Taft Elks Lodge, and past Exalted Ruler and a past member of the Taft Masons. He is survived by his wife of 63 years Marguerite (Margo) Steinmetz of cayucos, and a son, Clark Steinmetz of Paso Robles.

Arrangements are by McDermott-Crcket Mortuary of Santa-Barbara. Memorial contributions may be made to Shopice Partners of the Central Coast, 285 South St. Suite 1, San Luis Obispo, California 93401.
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Charles Ray Stephens, 46
January 21, 1949 - December 3, 1995

Funeral services will be held in Thursday at 10:00 a.m. for Taft resident Charles Ray Stephens, 46. The Rev. Theodore Wehunt, pastor of the Taft Church of God, will officiate at the services. Burial will follow in the West Side District Cemetery.

Mr. Stephens was born in Taft on January 21, 1949 and passed away in a Fresno hospital December 3rd. He served in the U.S. Army from 1968-72. He was employed as a truck driver for over 25 years and was last employed by Monroe Construction.

Mr. Stephens was preceded in death by a granddaughter, Shania Brooke Arnold, in September 1994. His survivors include his wife, Judy Stephens of Taft; two daughters, Amanda Arnold and her husband, Kenny, and Rachell Stephens, all of Taft; a son, Johnny Ray Odell Stephens of Piedmont, Alabama; a grandson, Jaren Bishop Arnold of Taft; four brothers and their wives, Roger and Glenda Stephens, Harley and Penny Stephens and Tim Stephens, all of Taft, and Eddie and Debbie Stephens of Derby Acres; two sisters, Linda Perryman Stephens of Bakersfield and Paula Bright Stephens of Taft; and his parents Chuck and Pauline Stephens of Derby Acres.

Memorial donations in Mr. Stephens' memory may be sent to 505 Sixth Ave., Taft, California 93268. Those who wish to pay their respects may do so Wednesday from 5:30 p.m. until 8:30 p.m. at the Erickson & Brown Funeral Home.
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Pauline Stephens
March 3, 1932 - November 28, 2012

Graveside funeral services will be held in the West Side District Cemetery on Tuesday, December 4, 2012 at 2:00 p.m. for Derby Acres resident, Pauline Stephens, 80. Pastor Tim Sumner will officiate.

Mrs. Stephens was born in Vian, Oklahoma on March 3, 1932 and passed away in Bakersfield on November 28, 2012. She moved to Taft in 1949 and she and her family moved to Derby Acres in 1959. Mrs. Stephens attended Taft Church of God . She will be remembered as a loving wife and mother as well as being a wonderful homemaker.

Mrs. Stephens was preceded in death by her son, Charles Ray Stephens and her daughter, Paula Kay Bright. Her survivors include her husband of 64 years, Charles Stephens; her children and their spouses, Roger and Glenda Stephens, Linda Perryman and John Ginther, Eddie and Debbie Stephens, Harlie and Penny Stephens, Timmy Stephens and Terrie Cobb; her 13 grandchildren; her 16 great grandchildren; her one brother and five sisters.

Friends are invited to pay their respects on Monday from 3:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. and again on Tuesday from 9:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at the Erickson & Brown Funeral Home. To convey condolences or sign an online registry, please visit www.EricksonAndBrown.com
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Bryan James Stetson
August 22, 1991 - August 22, 2009

Visitation for Bryan James Stetson will be held at Basham Funeral Care (3312) Niles Street) on Sunday, August 30, 2009 from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. Funeral services will be held in the Basham Funeral Care Chapel on Monday, August 31, 2009 at 1:30 p.m. Interment will follow at Hillcrest Memorial Park.

Bryan James Stetson (BJ) was born August 22, 1991 and left us to be at peace in heaven on August 22, 2009. He attended Bakersfield an Taft schools. He leaves behind his father and mother, Bryan and Wanda Stetson, brother, Jason; sister, Candice; grandparents, Donald and Cherrie Stetson; great grandmother, Alice Tidwell; grandmother, Joyce Van Curran; foster parents, William and Dorothy Allen; step-mother, Tressa Lowe of Taft and many aunt, uncles, cousins and friends. BJ had resided with the Allens's for most of the last 10 years. He lived 3 years with Tressa Lowe. He was with the Allen's when he passed away, he refered to them as grandma and grandpa was the joy of their lives along with his brother, Jason. For additional service information, please contact Basham Funeral Care at 873-8200.
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Marjorie (Young) Steuwer
August 9, 1925 - September 22, 2003

Graveside services will be held in the West Side District Cemetery on Friday morning at 10:00 a.m. for Marjorie Young Steuwer, 78. Mrs. Steuwer was born in Arkansas on August 9, 1925, and passed away in a Bakersfield rest home on September 22, 2003. She first moved to California in 1943, first settled in the Bay area, moving to Kern County in 1949. She lived most of her adult life in Taft. She was married to Pete Petty, then to James Young.

She leaves behind two daughters, Gola Manasco, of Bakersfield, and Linda Phillips of Taft;. five grandchildren: Bruce Coats of Dallas, Texas, Debra Coats of Crossville, Tennessee, Kimberly Borden of Shawnee, Oklahoma, Johnny Solorio of Fresno, California and Alfred James Segobia of Bakersfield, and 11 great grandchildren.

Graveside services will be held Friday, September 26, 2003 at 10:00 a.m. at the Taft, West Side District Cemetery. The family wishes to express our many thanks to the employees at Optimal Hospice and Valley Convalescent Home for their help through this very trying time No visitation hours are scheduled and the services are under the direction of the Erickson & Brown Funeral Home.
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Tamela Suzette Steward
December 4, 1959 - June 17, 2012

Tammy was born on December 4, 1959 as the youngest daughter of Anthony and Betty McCracken. She passed away in her home late Sunday evening June 17, 2012.

Tammy was a Taft High graduate of the Class of 1978 and married the love of her life. Lance Steward, on June 16, 1979. Tammy was blessed with two daughters, Jessica born 1985 and Jozie born 1990. She is most well known for her unique laugh that was always contagious. Some of the happiest moments in Tammy's life were when she dedicated her time to working with the elderly at a local assisted living facility. She enjoyed vacations with her family (especially spending weeks at the beach), fishing with her husband and purses.

A memorial service will be held on June 22, at 11:00 a.m. at Taft First Assembly of God with a fellowship gathering to follow. In lieu of flowers the family requests that a donation be made to Teen Challenge of Kern County in her honor.
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Daniel T. Stewart
October 6, 1957 - April 21, 2002

Memorial services will be held in the Westside Believers Fellowship, 1000 Sixth Street Taft on Friday at 11:00 a.m. for Taft resident, Daniel Thomas Stewart, 44. Rev. Ron Griffith, pastor at Westside Believers Fellowship will officiate at the services. Private burial will be in the Westside District Cemetery.

Mr. Stewart was born in San Jose on October 6, 1957 and passed away in Taft on April 21, 2002. He lived in Taft for the last year and attended the Westside Believers Fellowship. He had been employed as a foreman by the Boiler Makers Union of California. Mr. Stewart enjoyed the great outdoors, fishing, golfing and loved his children. He was preceded in death by his father, Troy Stewart and his brother, James Stewart.

His survivors include his wife, Sherry Stewart; his children, Amanda, Ashlee, Jacob and Joshua Stewart all of Colorado; his mother Fern Stewart of Manteca; his sisters and their husbands, Cynthia and Ken Mickelberry of Taft,and Angela and James Kutch of Victorville; his nieces and nephews, Dana and Aaron Griffth, Chad Mickleberry, and Emily and Troy Kutch and by several aunts and uncles and cousins.

No visitation hours are scheduled. For more information please call Erickson and Brown Funeral Home, 765-4111. For God so loved the World, that he gave his only begotten Son, that who so ever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. John 3:16
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Frederick L. Stewart, Sr.
September 28, 1948 - June 22, 2012

A graveside funeral service will be held on Tuesday, June 26, 2012, at 1:00 p.m. in the West Side District Cemetery for Taft resident, Frederick Lane Stewart, Senior, 63. Chaplain Bob Winter will officiate the service.

Mr. Stewart was born in Hanford on September 28, 1948 and passed away at his home in Taft on June 22, 2012. He served his country as a member of the U.S. Army and attained the rank of Sargeant having spent time in Vietnam. He was an avid NASCAR fan and was the owner and operator of S&S Home and Lawn Care. He was preceded in death by his father, Charlie Laney. Mr. Stewart is survived by his mother, Naydean Laney; his chidren, Freddy Stewart and his wife, Stephanie and their sons Evan and Kyle Stewart all of Taft; his sisters and brothers, Shirley Thompson of Missouri, Stephan Stewart of Oklahoma, Sharn Stewart of Missouri, Larry Laney of Texas, Anita Valencia of California; and many cousins, nieces and nephews.

There are no visitation hours scheduled and the arrangements are under the direction of the Erickson & Brown Funeral Home. To convey online condolences please visit www.EricksonAndBrown.com.
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Geneva (Brummett) Stewart, 64
August 21, 1932 - August 18, 1997

Funeral services will be held August 23rd for former West Side resident Geneva (Brummett) Stewart, 64.

Mrs. Stewart was born August 21, 1932 in Glendale, Arizona. She passed away August 18th.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Jim Stewart in 1990. Mrs. Stewart is survived by a brother, Frank Brummett, of Taft; a daughter and son-in-law, Brenda and Michael Baker of Covina; one son, Keith Cirling of Reno, Nevada; and three grandsons; Steve, Danny and Anthony.

Services will begin at 10:30 a.m. at Lakewood Memorial in Hughson.
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Helen R. Stewart
August 22, 1902 - September 29, 1995

Funeral services will be held in the West Side District Cemetery Mausoleum Chapel Tuesday at 10:00 a.m. for long-time Taft resident Helen Rhodes Stewart, 93. The Rev. Sam White, pastor of the Cuyama Assembly of God, will officiate at the services. Entombment will follow in the cemetery's mausoleum.

Mrs. Stewart was born in Sioux City, Iowa, on August 22, 1902 and passed away in an Arvin rest home September 29. She was educated in Canada where she met her grammar school sweetheart, George H. Stewart, who later became her husband. She taught music in Canada before moving to California in 1923. She continued to teach music after she moved to Taft and played the piano at many dance recitals. She assisted her husband in the operation of their business Stewart's Drug Company and was an officer in the business.

She was preceded in death by her husband in February 1989. Her survivors include a daughter and her husband, Mary Anne and Paul Thomas of Woodland; a son and his wife, Hank and Anita Stewart of Taft; two brothers, William Garvai of Palos Verde and Richard Garvai of Los Angeles; her grandchildren, Rodney Thomas of Salt Lake City, Utah, Richard Stewart of Clovis, Jill Hixson of Bakersfield and Julie Dobbs of Magalia; and her great grandchildren, Derrick and Stewart Thomas, Jeffery, Scott and Garrett King, Kara Lee and Krissy Dobbs, and Jonathan and Leslie Stewart.

Friends may call at the Erickson & Brown Funeral Home, Monday until 8:30 p.m. to pay their respects.
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Henry Carstairs Stewart
March 24, 1928 - April 5, 2009

Henry Carstairs Stewart was called home to be with the Lord on April 5, 2009.

He enjoyed 81 glorious years on earth. He was born in Taft, California on March 21, 1928 and passed away peacefully at home with his loving wife by his side.

Hank operated Stewart's Drug Store in Taft for 30 years and his greatest joy was helping people. He is a veteran of the Korean War. He and Anita retired to the central coast in 1986 and loved to travel, especially to Lake Tahoe and the Casinos. They moved to Bakersfield in 2005 to be near family.

He is survived by his wife and soul mate of 37 years, Anita of Bakersfield, California, his son Richard and wife Jane of Clovis, California, daughter Jill Knight, and husband Matthew of Vacaville, Callifornia, stepson Tommy Brown and wife Susan Taft, California, stepdaughter Pam Jones and husband Sam of Taft, California. He is also survived by 14 grandchildren and 9 great grandchildren and his sister . Mary Anne Thomas and husband Paul of Woodland, California, as well as many special relatives and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents George H. and Helen R. Stewart of Taft, California. We'll miss you Hank.

Services are scheduled for Saturday April 11th at 2:00 p.m. at Erickson & Brown Funeral Home, 501 Lucard St., Taft, California 93268 - 661-765-4111. Visitation will Be at Erickson & Brown on Friday April 10th from 3:00 p.m. or any time Saturday prior to service.
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Matthew Allen Stice, 17
March 4, 1980 - December 20, 1997

Graveside funeral services will be held on December 23, 1997 at 2:00 p.m. at Atascadero District Cemetery for Matthew Allen Stice, 17. He passed away on December 20th, at his home after a lengthy illness. His grandfather, Pastor Ralph J. Vanderberg will officiate the services.

Matthew was born in Taft on March 4, 1980. He was a recent graduate of Atascadero High School. He was a percussionist with the Atascadero Junior High School and later the Atascadero High School bands. He was involved in Campus Life and Friday Night Live. He was an active volunteer with Famous Fone Friends in Los Angeles. Matt was a past member of the Charles Paddock Zoo Explorer Post. Matt loved music, video games and movie trivia.

He is survived by his father Rick-Stice of Camarillo, California; his mother and step-father Ginny and Jim Vanderberg of Atascadero; his grandmother Gwen Via of Big Stone Gap, Virginia; his grandmother and grandfather Ralph J. and Virginia Vanderberg of Bakersfield, California; his great grandmother Addie Hickenbotton of Pismo Beach, California; his aunts and uncles; Linda and Doug Hunsaker of Big Stone Gap, Virginia, Pam and Mark Via of Jacksonville, Flordia, Sheryl and Paul Nashitka of Bakersfield, Daryl and Cheryl Stice of Valencia, California, Mike and Judy McCoy of Laguna Niguel, California, Adrienne Vanderberg of Fresno; and by several cousins.
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Joann Stichling
July 12, 1934 - September 29, 2011

Joann Stichling was born Ida JoAnn Schertz to Art and Emma on Juy 12, 1934 in McCracken, Kansas. Her family moved to Taft, where she and her siblings Donna, Roberta, Art and Linda spent their childrood years. JoAnn was voted Queen of Oildorado at 16 years old. She was a world traveler, making homes in such varied locales as Hunting Beach, Texas, Belguim, Italy, Germany and Washington State, where she lived out her remaining years surrounded by family. JoAnn loved reading and word games, spending Sunday mornings sipping her coffee and dominating the New Your Times crossword puzzle. She thrived in her work environment as an accomplished, highly regarded secretary and executive assistant at multiple aerospeace companies, retiring from Boeing in 1995.

She is survived by her husband Hermann, siblings Donna and Art; daughers Judy, Kathleeen and Monika; grandchidren Christopher, Carmela, Monique, Sarah, Jennifer, Katelyn, Maia and Zoey; and great grandchidren Lorenzo, Joelle, Olivia, Quintessence, Bianca and Freddie. She will forever be remembered in the hearts of her family.

A private memorial service for family will be held in Renton, Wasington, Saturday, October 8th.
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Deborah Diane Kennedy Stickles
October 16, 1966 - November 14, 2008

Deborah Diane Kenedy Stickles was born October 16, 1966 and she passed away peacefully in her home in Taft on November 14, 2008.

She is survived by her loving husband of 13 years, Robert Stickles. She is also survived by her loving parents, Pete and Shirley Kennedy of Bakersfield; brother, Bobby Kennedy; nephew, Kevin Kennedy; niece, Desi Carlson; aunts and uncles, Billie and Leon Shamblin, Barbara and Nick Verratti, Kathy and Don Bussey, Joyce and Ed Williams and Jeanette Bishop. She is also lovingly survived by numerous extended family members, friends and her beloved dog, Bud.

A Celebration of her life will be held at the Taft Historical Fort at 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, December 6, 2008 for friends and family.
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Olivia Sina Stieger
November 22, 1917 - October 18, 2002

Our Lord gathered Olivia to his loving arms on October 18, 2002. Olivia was born on November 22, 1917 in Jerome, Arizona to Dominic and Camille Valentine. She attended the School for the Deaf in Tucson, Arizona and resided in the Taft area for more than sixty years. She will be greatly missed by her family, relatives and many friends.

Eleven grandchildren and nine great grandchildren survived her by her children, David Wallace of Winfield, West Virginia, Darlene Haufman of Jacksonville, Flordia, Joe Stieger of Bakersfield, and Clara Howard of Taft. She is also survived by her brother Daniel Valentine of San Carlos, by her sisters Pearl Garcia of Taft and Terry O'keefe of Oklahoma City and her many nieces and nephews.

A funeral mass will be said for Olivia on Saturday, October 19th, at 10:00 a.m. at St. Mary's Catholic Church in Taft. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the National Organization for the treatment of Parkinson's Disease. Special thanks to the staff of Glenwood Gardens and Hoffman Hospice for their caring support of Oivia and her family.
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Charles Stigall
January 11, 1919 - May 22, 1968

Funeral services will be held Saturday at 10:00 a.m. in the Erickson & Brown Funeral Chapel for Charles Edward Stigall of San Francisco who died at his home early yesterday morning.

A native of Maricopa, Mr. Stigall was born January 11, 1919. He was a veteran of World War Two and at the time of his death was a member of the Merchant Marines. He had resided in San Francisco for the past six years.

The son of the late Mr. and Mrs. William H. Stigall, Mr. Stigall is survived by one sister, Mary Louise Riggs, Lakewood, California.

Burial will be in West Side District Cemetery.
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Rodney "Pop" Stigall
September 22, 1943 - December 7, 2009

A graveside funeral service will be held in Greenlawn Cemetery, 3700 River Blvd., Bakersfield on Friday, December 11, 2009 at 12:00 p.m. for Rodney "Pop" Stigall, 66.

Mr. Stigall was born in Bakersfield on September 22, 1943 and passed away at his Bakersfield resdience on December 7, 2009 surrounded by his daughters. He graduated from Taft Union High School in 1962 and had lived in Fellows for 36 years. He served his country as a member of the U.S. Army and worked in the oilfields for 32 years. He was an avid NASCAR fan and had the opportunity to attend many of those races.

He was preceded in death by his beloved mother, Frances Madge Inman, in November of 2008. Mr. Stigall is survived by his brother and his wife, Jim and Kay Stigall of Taft; his children, Nicholas Stigall of Bakersfield, Renee and Kelly Vigil, Teresa Stigall and Heather and John Neumann all of Taft; his grandchildren, Cyrena Stigall, Audrik Tatman, Deidra Nies, Chole Stigall, Darius, Travis Neumann and marci McKnight; his great grandchilden, Emma, Riley and Connor; his beloved grandpets, Eve and Fefe and Jackson; and many, many friends and co-workers that knew him as Pop.

Special thanks is given to his nurse. Desiree, at Hoffmann Hospice. There are no visitation hours scheduled and the funeral arrangements are under the direction of the Erickson & Brown Funeral Home. www.EricksonAndBrown.com
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Robert Harold Stillwell
January 22, 1929 - September 24, 2005

A memorial service and reception will be held on Sunday, October 2, 2005 at The Ford, 915 N. 10th Street in Taft from 4:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. If unable to attend, you may write to P.O. Box 254, Taft, California 93268 or email: [email protected].

Robert is survived by his wife, June; son, David; sister, Judy Colby; brothers, Jimmy and Donnie Stillwell; four grandchildren and eight great grandchildren.

There are no visitation hours scheduled and the arrangements are under the direction of the Erickson & Brown Funeral Home.
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Ronda Stine
January 16, 1941 - March 12, 2012

Ronda Stine, age 71, and longtime resident of Taft, California passed away peacefully of natural causes on Monday, March 12, 2012 in Bakersfield, California.

Ronda was born January 16, 1941 in Hudson, Illinois.

Ronda is survived by her step father, Walt Davis, her brother; Dick Smith, her children; Susan Scott, Betty Scott-Evans & Dennis Hill, Will Stine, Leo Valdez and James & Alicia Stine, her grandchildren; Robert & Angie Scott, James & Dawn Waddell, Glenn Scott, Donny & Danyelle Patterson, Josh & Cahty Trusdell, Lea Lowe-Dyer, Nick & Tiffany VanSlyke, and many great & great-great grandchildren. Ronda was preceded in death by her parents Elizabeth Humphress and Raymond Smith; her brother; William Smith and her son Danny Scott.

Ronda was devoted toher family and loved spending as much time as possible with them. She will forevever be missed by many. Per Ronda's request, there will be so service.
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Raymond Leroy Stokesbary
April 10, 1920 - July 3, 2003

Raymond passed away on July 3, 2003 in Valley Acres at age 83. Services will be held in Hemet, California. There will be a memorial dinner at 101 Church Street, Taft, California, at 4:00 p.m.

Raymond was born on April 10, 1920 in Aurora, Nebraska. He joined the Army in 1942 and served as a Medical Corpsman, ambulance driver and Dental Clinic as a denta assistant.

His survivors include a sister, Dorthy Hugihes of Colorado; a cousin Tina Flager also in Colorado; three brothers, Leroy, Jesse, and Ronald Stokesbary who all live in Oregon; daughter: Rhonda and her husband John Davis and Dorthy Stokesbary, who has gone to heaven and Eva and her husband Orval Scott of Taft; sons: Albert and his wife Flo of Jasper, Texas and Kent Hunt of Mesa, Arizona; 12 grandchildren and 36 great grandchildren, 15 great-great grandchildren. He will be missed very much.
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Marion Frances Stone
February 3, 1924 - May 29, 2012

Frances was born on February 3, 1924 in Bakersfield, California and passed away on May 29 at the age of 88. She grew up & raised her family in Taft, and lived in the Bass Lake/North Fork area for the past 30 years. She lived a full and active life. As a stay at home mom, Frances was known for being a exceptional baker and candy maker, gardener, artist, seamstress, an socail organizer. Since the 1950's her creativity has been shared during Christmas with her various homemade yard and rooftop displays that included sleds, reindeer, carolers, etc., and hundreds of lights. She was the multi-talented Martha Stewart of her time.

In addition to her career as a homemaker, Frances was active in many community and political organizations including PTA president, Emblem Club officer, Girl Scout Leader, and political organizer, who regularly developed telephone trees on election day for her favorite candidate. Frances had a passion for reading and reading five books a month was normal for her until her death. Frances played weekly bridge or pinochle over her lifetime and played lots of Bunco in the 60's. She loved to entertain and organize social gatherings wherever she lived, travelled, or vacationed. She was an engaging storyteller, whose embellishments made you wish you were there or had met the person she was talking about, and then realized you had. An excellent fiber artist, she leaves behind a masterful collection of needlepoints quilts, crocheted afghans, and designer inspired knit apparel.

Frances is survived by her husband of 70 years, Bob Stone, who will continue living in the memory care facility adjacent to her assisted living apartment in Fresno; daughter Carol Stone and husband Ken Collins of Friant; son Bob Stone of O'Neals; grandson Dylan Stone of Fresno; and granddaughter Tricia Stone of San Luis Obispo. She also leaves behind, her beloved dog, Brandi, who was her faithful companion and was reported to have knowled like a grieving human at the time of her death in a nearby hospital.

No services per her request. A memorial potluck is being planned at Marina View.
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Pauline Stone
May 5, 1920 - February 14, 1996

Pauline was born May 5, 1920 in Maricopa, California and passed away at home on February 14, 1996.

She attended school in Maricopa and graduated from Maricopa High School. Pauline was a beautician for 40 years. She and husband Douglas recently celebrated 50 years of marriage. Together they traveled extensively, enjoyed membership in Roving Elks, Elks Lodge functions, square and round dancing. Many friends will remember her as a "Classy Lady".

Survivors include her loving husband Douglas; sons Donald and wife Jonnie, Richard and wife Sue, Phillip and wife Ginny; and grandchildren Jennifer and Carey.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Kern Hospice, Shrines Hospital or Elks Major Project. Services will be held at Unity Church, 1619 "E" Street at Truxtun, Saturday, February 17, 1996 at 4:00 p.m.
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William B. Stone
"Stoney"
April 8, 1920 - July 8, 2002

At the request of the deceased, there are no funeral services scheduled for Derby Acres resident William B. Stone "Stoney", 82.

Mr. Stone was born in Belvedere, Nebraska on April 8, 1920 and went to join his beloved wife Barbara in heaven on July 28, 2002.

Mr. Stone worked as an operator for Standard Oil for many years. After retirement, he traveled throughout the United States will his wife and cat. He loved to hunt, fish, ride horses and spend time with his family. He never met a stranger and will be sorely missed by all who knew him.

Mr. Stone was preceded in death by his wife Barbara, his son William Earl Stone, his parents William and Freda Stone and his brother Donald Stone. Mr. Stone is survived by his daughter Bette Eveland of Derby Acres; his grandchildren and their spouses, Sharyn Eveland and Sharon Rea of Derby Acres, Mike and Teresa Eveland of Derby Acres, Jeff and Stacey Eveland of Derby Acres, Bill and Darla Eveland of Taft; and seven great grandchildren, Richard, Tiffany, Terri, B.J., Mikie, Sean and Kylee Eveland.

The arrangements are under the direction of the Erickson & Brown Funeral Home.
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Herschel "Bud" Stoner
February 18, 1941 - July 10, 2008

Bud Stoner passed away on July 10, 2008 after a lengthy illness; he passed into God's arms with his loving sons by his side.

Bud was born on February 18, 1941 in Tulare, California to Herschel G. and Clara Stoner. He was a resident of Taft for over 40 years. He attended Tulare Union High Schoool and graduated in 1959. After high school he proudly served his country as a member of the U.S. Army, stationed in Europe.

He traveled the world while working for Occidental, but his chosen profession was truck driving. He especially loved his last employer, Cooper's Petroleum, and owner Norman Cooper, where he drove fuel tankers. He married Mickey Stoner in 1975 and they were married for 33 years. Bud was an avid gun collector, NASCAR fan and enjoyed watching The Price is Right with Drew Carey. The thing he enjoyed most was spending time with his grandchildren, especially picking them up from school every day.

He is survived by his loving wife, Mickey of Taft; his sons, Robby Caudle and wife, Bianca of Taft, Corey of Bakersfield; daughter, Rachel and husband Mickey, of Taft; son, Steven of Visalia; brother Michael Stoner and wife, Gloria of Tulare; sister-in-law Kathy Line and husband, Dan of Taft; neiphew Denver Stoner of Tulare; niece, RobinStoner ofTlulare; and grandchildren, Beri Lucy, Robbi, Landon, Bodey and Mary Rose; and many friends.

Graveside services will be held on Wednesday, July 16, 2008, at 11:00 a.m. in the West Side District Cemetery. No public visitation hours are scheduled and the arrangements are under the direction of the Erickson & Brown Funeral Home. Bud's family would like to give a special thanks to the nursing staff of Glenwood Gardens and Hoffmann Hospice for the care they provided. Bud was loved trememdoouly by his family. His loss will leave a void in the hearts of all who loved him. We love you, Dad!
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Reba Sue Stoner
February 6, 1942 - February 25, 2010

Reba Sue Stoner was born to L. Merle and Sudie Bull in Bakersfield, California on February 6, 1942. She attended local schools and graduated from East Bakersfield High School in June, 1959. After her marriage to her high school sweetheart, Ken Stoner, Reba enjoyed being a stay-at-home mom, actively involved in all aspects of her young sons' lives. Her interests and hobbies were many, including bowling, reading Ann Rule mysteries, her sons, her grandchidren, her animals, gardening, travel to fun and interesting places, and following and rooting for the Angels and Clippers.

Reba was preceded in death by her parents and her older brother, Ronald. She is survived by her sons, Rob Stoner and his wife, Alisha, Kyle Stoner and Kendall Stoner and his wife, Lisa; her grandchildren, Brent Bay Bradley Stoner, and Zane and Shaylee Stoner; her sister, Verla Phillips; her nieces, nephew, cousins, and many friends whol will all cherish her memory.

There will be a memorial service at the Erickson & Brown Funeral Home located at 501 Lucard Street, Taft, on Saturday, March 13, 2010 at 11:00 a.m.and reception at the Taft Moose Lodge immediately following. In lieu of flowers donations may be made in Reba's memory to www.nationalbreastcancer.org. or SPCA (www.aspca.org.) There are no visitation hours scheduled and the arrangements are under the direction of the Erickson & Brown Fruneral Home.
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Teresa Lee Stotts
February 20, 1911 - January 13, 1997

Graveside services will be held in Greenlawn Memorial Park, 3700 River Blvd., Thursday, January 16th at 3:00 p.m. for Teresa Lee Stotts, 85 who passed away January 13, 1997 in Bakersfield. Dr. Wesley Brown will officiate.

Teresa Lee Stotts was born to Lorenzo and Sarah Elizabeth Brown in February 20, 1911 in Durkin County, Missouri. The family moved to Taft in 1924. Teresa attended Taft Union High School where she met and married Ralph Marcus Stotts. He preceded her in death in 1968.

She is survived by her daughter and son-in-law, Diane and Milton Rudnick; two beloved granddaughters, Melanie Ruth Rudnick of Portland, Oregon and Melissa Jean Faye and her husband, Eric and two great grandsons, Ryan Rudnick Faye and Ethan Rudnick Faye of Knights Landing, California.

Teresa was a very beautiful lady who worked many years as a saleslady for Weills and Brocks Department Stores. She was baptized in her deep Christian faith by Rev. John Lavender and truly loved attending the First Baptist Church. Our special thanks and deep gratitude to Dr. Aileen Matuk, also the staff at Mercy Skilled Nursing for their very thouoghtful and kind treatment of our beloved Teresa.

In lieu of flowers, please make donations to your favorite charity. Visisttion begins this afternoon at 3:00 p.m.
Greenlawn Mortuary Funeral Directors
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Vera Lovie Stotts
April 18, 1901 - March 16, 1997

Graveside services will be held at Unon cemetery, Haven of Rest on Friday, March 14, 1997 at 1:00 p.m.for Vera Lovie Stotts nee: Sornborger, 95, who passed away March 16, 1997 in Bakersfield, California.

Vera was born April 18, 1901 in Bakersfield, California. On April 10, 1992 Vera married Clifford Gerald Stotts. Although she lived most of her life in Taft and Bakersfield. Lovie spent a few years in the 1960's working as a change girl at the Golden Nugget in Las Vegas.

Mrs. Stotts is survived by her daughter and son-in-law, Gwen and Norman Smith: son and daughter-in-law Joe and Patricia Stotts; daughter-in-law Jancie Stotts, 9 grandchildren, 15 great grandchildren and 3 great-great grandchildren. Lovie was preceded in death by her husband of 60 years Clifford, and he son, Clifford Gerald, Jr.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to the staff of Parkview-Julian for the kind and compassionate care given their mother during her stay with them.

Lovie's unconditional love and caring for her family will keep her memory aliveand fresh in their hearts forever.
Doughty-Calhoun-O'Meara Funeral Directors
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Dudley Stout
April 13, 1915 - February 25, 2009

Funeral services will be held inthe Erickson & Brown Funeral Home on Monday morning at 11:00 a.m. for Taft resident, Dudley Stout, 93. Burial will follow in the West Side District Cemetery.

Mr. Stout was born the first of six sons to George and Claudia Stout in Broadview, New Mexico on April 13, 1915 and passed away in Bakersfield on February 25, 2009. The day after Pearl Harbor was attacked Mr. Stout volunteered in the U.S. Army and was assigned to the First Cavalry Division and accompanied the Army's last pack mule team to New Guinea. After the war he attended Abilene Christian College where he received his Bachelor's degree. Mr. Stout became an evangelist and preached in Texas, New Mexico, Kansas, Arizona, California, Oklahoma and Oregon. His ministry lasted over 65 years. Mr. Stout was a member of the Church of Christ. After his children were raised he and his late wife, Twylah-Belle, reared three of their grandchildren. He lived in Taft from 1959 to 1961 and returned to Taft in 1996.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his three brothers, Victor, Calvin and Wayne Stout and his wife of 67 years, Twylah-Belle Stout on March 29, 2005. Mr. Stout is survived by his daughter and her husband, Martoria and Fred Sherman; his son, George Royal Stout, Sr., all of Taft, his grandchildren, Deborah Ann Patton, Lisa Royal and Steve Maher, George Royal Stout, Jr., Hollie Cheree Stout and Celexy and Rico Adame; his 12 great grandchildren and his brothers, Fern Stout and his wife, Leta of Palm Desert and Billy Stout of New Mexico.

Friends are invited to pay their respects on Saturday from 2:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at the Erickson & Brown Funeral Home.
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James Louis Stout
June 24, 1919 - January 13, 2006

Graveside funeral services will be held in the West Side District Cemetery on Wednesday, January 18, 2006 at 1:00 p.m. for longtime Taft resident, James Louis Stout, 86.

Mr. Stout was born June 24, 1919 in Collinsville, Oklahoma and passed away in Taft on January 13, 2006. Mr. Stout served his country from 1940 to 1943 in the U. S. Army. He worked for Standard Oil Company for over 20 years.

Mr. Stout was preceded in death by his parents, Hubert and Agnes Stout; his wife, Willie Stout; his sisters, Lorraine Reed and LaVonna Castenada; and by his niece Patty Jo Black. His survivors include his brother, Cliford Stout of Florida; his sister and her husband, Eva and James McCraw of Florida; his nieces and nephews, Candace Soule and her husband, Wally of Tehachapi, Max Reeed of Tehachapi, Lu Anna Phillips of Michigan, Leslie Arbegast of Bakersfield and James Sessom of Taft; his great niece and her husband Andrea and Craig Gotcher of Taft; his great great niece, Stephanie Grant of Taft; his great great nephew, Craig Gotcher of Taft; and by his care taker, Donna Mead of Taft.

There are no visitation hours scheduled and the arrangements are under the direction the Erickson & Brown Funeral Home.
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Willie Elizabeth Stout, 90
February 18, 1911 - December 30, 2001

Graveside funeral services will be held in the West Side District Cemetery on Wednesday January 2, 2002 at 10:00 a.m. for longtime Taft resident, Willie Elizabeth Stout, 90. Rev. Sam White, pastor of the Cuyama Assembly of God Church will officiate at the service.

Mrs. Stout was born in Mena, Arkansas on February 18, 1911 and passed away in Taft on December 30, 2001. Mrs. Stout came to Taft in 1957. She had moved back to Arkansas for about four years and then returned to Taft. Mrs. Stourt wourked as a cook and waitress.

She was preceded in death by her parents and four brothers. her survivors include her husband, James Stout of Taft; her brother and his wife, J. E. Chambers and Dora of Taft; and her several nieces and nephews.

Friends may pay their respects on Tuesday from 3:00 p.m.to 8:30 p.m. The arrangements are in the care of the Erickson & Brown Funeral Home.
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Ollie Stovall
October 25, 1920 - June 7, 2003

No services will be scheduled for Shafter resident, Ollie Stovall. Ollie was born October 25, 1920 in Oklahoma and she passed away on June 7, 2003 in Fresno, California at the age of 82. All funeral arrangements are under the care and direction of West Side Family Mortuary. (661) 763-1594.

Willie Mae Stracener, 76
August 11, 1924 - May 7, 2001

Graveside services for Willie Mae Stracener, 76, of Tupman, will be Friday, May 11, 2001, at 9:00 a.m. at the West Side District Cemertery.

She was born on August 11, 1924, in Houston Texas, and passed away Monday morning, May 7, 2001, at the hospital in Taft. Willie Mae and her husband Wesley retired from Foxtail Ranches after many years of labor.

She was preceded in death by Wesley, May 1, 1994. Survivors include son, Billy MItchell; son, James and wife Theresia Stracener; daughter, Ida Mae and husband Lenore Gott; six grandchildren; 11 great granchildren; brother, Robert McGuire; sisters, cordie Mae Bilbrey and Jessie Bradley.

Visitation will be Thursday, May 10, from noon until 4:00 p.m. at the West Side Family Mortuary. Services are under the direction of West Side Family Mortuary, Taft, 763-1594.
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Fred Marion Strader
June 11, 1917 - December 20, 2001

Fred Marion Strader, 84, died December 20, 2001, at home in Hemet, California. A native of Drumright, Oklahoma. Mr. Strader lived in Hemet for over six years. He had previously lived in Bakerfield, California where he attended St. Johns Lutheran Church. He worked for Mobil Oil Corporation for over thirty years. Fred served in the Army Air Corps from 1942 until 1945. He was a member of the American Legion and the Veterans of Foreign Wars.

Mr. Strader is survived by his wife of sixty-one years, Margaret; one surviving sister, Ruth Savage of Shidler, Oklahoma; three daughters, Margaret Craig of Prescott Valley, Arizona, Marjorie Strader of Roseville, California and Marilyn Bennett of Escondido, California; one son, Rick Strader of Glendora, California; five grandchildren; seven great grandchildren.
Miller-Jones Mortuary & Crematory, Inc., Hemet, California (909) 658-3161
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Maudie Strand
August 1, 1920 - December 12, 2003

Graveside funeral services will be held on Wednesday, December 17th at 11:00 a.m. in the West Side District Cemetery for Maudie Strand, a longtime Taft resident. Rev. Sam White will officiate.

Maudie was born in Taft on August 1, 1920 and passed away on December 12th in a Bakersfield Hospital.

She was preceded in death by her husband of 57 years, Ryan A. Strand.

She is survived by her sons, John and daughter-in-law, Nancy Strand of Taft and Dennis and daughter-in-law, Nancy Strand of Taft and Dennis and daughter-in-law, Darlene of Fresno; her grandchildren, Kelley Wright and Denise Strand of Taft, A. J. Strand of Fresno, Chris Strand and wife Jamie of Bakersfield, Michael Strand of San Luis Obispo, Eric and Cindy Strand of Seattle, Washington and great grandchildren, Ashley, Priscilla and Marissa Wright of Taft.

Maudie will be remembered for sense of caring and her dedication to family.

Special thanks to Dr. Hasta and the nursing staff at San Joaquin Hospital and to Denise Strand, her "Little Angel", who was always with her, providing compassion, care and support during her final hours.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to the Ameican Cancer Society. No visitation hours are scheduled and the services are under the direciton of the Erickson & Brown Funeral Home.
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Daisy E. Strange
March 12, 1914 - August 22, 2001

A memorial to remember Daisy Strange will be held at the Guild House, 1905 18th Street on Sunday, September 9, 2001 from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.

Born March 12, 1914, Daisy passed away August 22, 2001at the age of 87. Born in Sawtelle, California, Daisy was named Margaret Mary Elizabeth MacKay. She moved to Bakersfield in 1936 with her husband Klare. Daisy had a strong commitment to her community. She was a founding member of the Child Guidance Guild and continued to volnunteer her time to Guild House until well past her 80th birthday. Daisy was Presdient of the 7th District PTA as well as the 1st President of the Highland-Wingland PTA. She was a Girl Scout troop leader for both of her daughters and volunteered at Memorial Hospoital for many years. Daisy was a member of the Beldan Circle for over 50 years. Daisy like to paint in watercolors and oils. She was a lifelong learner, avid traveler, and a gracious lady.

Daisy is survived by her daughters, Helen Arms and husband Geoff, and granddaughter Christine Arms of Riverside, California, Katherine Adams and husband Glen of Bakersfield; grandson Douglas Adams, wife Lynn and great grandson, Brandon of Bakerslield. She also leaves a brother, Dougle MacKay of Sun City, Arizona and many nieces and nephews. Her husband of 52 years, Klare, and 7 brothers and sisters preceded her in death.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Guild House, 1905 18th Street, Bakersfield, California 93301.
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Emma M. Strangman
January 27, 1905 - April 23, 2003

Graveside services will be held in the Greenlawn Southwest Memorial Park, 2739 Panama Lane and Hwy. 99, for Emma M. Strangman, 98, who passed away April 23, 2003. Pastor Charles Brehmer will officiate.

Miss Strangman was born on January 27, 1905, in Talmage, Nebraska, and resided in Kern County for 60 years. She received a B.A. Degree in Music and a B.A. in Fine Arts from the University of Nebraska, and a M.A. Degree in 1948 in Music from the University of Southern California. She taught for over 40 years, 1943 to 1969, at Taft Union High School and Taft College, and had served as the Chairman of the Fine Arts Department and later Chairman of the Music Department. She was a member and the organist for many years at St. John's Lutheran Church and also served as choirmaster. She traveled extensively after retirement.

Miss Strangman is survived by her nephew, Thomas Edward Strangman and his wife, Jeanie of Prescott, Arizona; niece, Ida M. Strangman and her husband, Bradley Barron of Fullerton, California; grandnieces, Eva Barron of Fullerton and Wendy Strangman of San Diego; and grandnephew, Robert Strangman of Prescott, Arizona.
Greenlawn Mortuary Funeral Directors
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John Streich
February 12, 1938 - October 24, 2003

Graveside services will be held at the Westside District Cemetery, Taft at noon Wednesday, October 29th for John Streich, beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother and uncle. John lost a courageous six month battle against stomach cancer Friday evening, October 24th with family at his side. Visitation will be held from 3:00 to 8:30 p.m. October 28th at Erickson & Brown Funeral Home.

The youngest of eight, John was born in North Dakota on February 12, 1938 to Clarence and Louise Streich. In 1957 at the age of 19 he moved to California from his family home in Minnesota. Upon arriving in California he found a jov at southern California Gas Company where over a period of ten years he worked at the Huntington Beach, Anaheim and Montelbello bases. In 1967 he was transferred to the Taft Office where he worked until his reitrement in 1994 after supervising the biggest pipeline project of his career and one in which he took a great deal of pride. After retirement, John worked as Chief Inspector on several other Pipeline jobs. In his spare time he enjoyed being a member of the elks and Moose Ldges and was a honorary member of the Americian Legion.

On March 29, 1958 he married the love of his life, his Minnesota sweetheart, Marlyce Laurin. They would have 5 children, Kevin, Kurt, Keith, Karen and Kyle. John and his family came to Taft in 1967 where he would spend the remainder of his life in this community enjoying the times spent with beloved family and a host of cherished friends doing what he loved most-eating, drinking, playing cards and enjoying life to the fullest!

John was preceded in death by his parents, 5 brothers and sisters, his wife's parents and many other family members. He is survived by his treasured wife of 45 years, Marlyce who was his most dedicatd caregiver and advocate during his illness. In November they would have hnown each other for 50 years! Also surviving are his 4 sons Kevin, his wife Susie and their sons Sean and Ryan, Kurt and his children Kaysha and Kalen, Keith, Kyle and his one and only daughter, Karen, her husband, Lyle and their chidren Lynae, Laurin and Derek. John adored and took immense pride in all 7 grandchildren. In addition, John leaves behind his two special sisters, Kay Arnold of Garden Grove, Margaret Dufault of Vista, numeous brothers-in-law, sister-in- laws, nieces and nephews, all of whom he cared deeply for.

John had many friends who assisted in every way to make his last days comfortable one and their efforts will always be greatly appreciated by his family. Special thanks to Dr. Ravi Patel and his caring staff at CBCC, the nursing staff on the 4th and 5th floor Bakersfield Memorial Hospital and last, but certainly not least, to Dr. Naik for his kind and compassionate manner.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the American Cancer Society thru CBCC.
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Marie Mershon Stringer
October 3, 1924 - May 9, 2011

Mom was born Marie Alice Rotaas on her grandparents; farm in the small town Ughenden, Alberta, Canada. She was the third of five children. Marie served in the Royal Canadian Navy before she married Elmo Dalrymple in 1945. They moved to California with their two young daughters in 1953 where they soon had their third child. Mom returned to school in 1961 and earned her nursing degree. In 1978 she moved to McKittrick, California, where she owned and operated the Missouri Triangle until 1983. She then purchased the Tumbleweed Cafe in Derby Acres. She retired in 1996 after many happy years of cooking and serving the oilfield workers of the West Side.

Not long after, she was struck by a series of strokes and for the next seven years was cared for by her eldest daughter, Valerie, and her husband, Rick, at their McKittrick home. Care was subsequently continued by her daughter, Wilda at her Pahoa, Hawaii home until Maries passing. Our Lord took mom home on May 9, 2011 while in her daughters; loving arms.

Marie was preceded in death by her parents, Mathias and Sirena Rotaas; sister, Marge Kriesz and Irene Morrison; brother, Elmer Rotaas; and by husbands, Elmo Dalrymple, Victor Grotticelli, Jim Mershon, and Jerry Stringer. She is survived by her eldest sister, Evy Johnson of Alerta, Canada; three daughters, Valerie Parris and her husband, Rick of McKittrick, Wilda Collins and her husband, Charles of Pahoa, Hawaii, and Lin Rubadeau and her husband, Paul of Taft; as well as his granchildren, Christi Randolph Rubadeau and her husband, Paul of Taft; as well as her grandchildren, Christi Randolf (and Dave) of Texas, Matt Wires (and Lori) of McKittrick, Amber Collins of Florida, Patrick Collins of Hawaii, Leyla Jones (and Dan) of Portland, Oregon, Taylor Jones (and Shannon) of Taft and Seaver and Maddison Rubadeau of Taft; as well as great grandchildren, Dalton Wires, Lily and Hadley Jones and many nieces, nephews and friends.

We would like to thak Hospice and the special care from her homecare nurses, especially nurse, Donna. Join us for a Celebration of Life at Community Christian Fellowship, 631 North Street in Taft on May 31, 2011 at 4:00 p.m. Marie will be greatly missed.
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Sidney C. Stringfellow
March 13, 1912 - June 6, 1996

At the request of the family of the deceased, there will be no formal funeral service forTaft resident Sidney C. Stringfellow, 84. Private cremation will be held.

Mr. Stringfellow was a volunteer fireman and a member of the Masons. He loved sports, and in his youth he played for the majors.

His survivors included a daughter, Cheryl Horton on Rolla, Missouri, a stepson, Grady Edward of Arroyo Grande; two grandchildren, Jodi and Donald Holly of Arroyo Grande; a sister, Ruby Sunderland of Taft; and a niece, Lesa Sunderland of Taft.

Arrangements are under the direction of the Erickson & Brown Funeral Home.
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Arthur Joseph Stroud
August 14, 1926 - October 6, 2003

Arthur "Art" Joseph Stroud was born in Saint Paul, Minnesota and passed away at his home in Taft. Art served his country during World War II from September 1944 to November 1946 with the 27th Infantry and 77 Field Artillery 1st Cavalry Division in Tokyo, Japan for 22 months. Art worked at Standard Oil for 22 years. The last 36 years he has been everyone's favorite bartender at Art Corner. Art was a member of The Loyal Order of Moose.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Kenneth and Julia Stroud. He leaves behind his wife, his "Beloved Sweetheart" of 30 years, Lillian Stroud; his daughters, Kathy Ackerman of Saddlebrook, New Jersey and Judy Michaelsen of Salinas; his son, David Stroud of Bakersfield; his step-children, Gary Spell and Gail Huffmon; his grandchildren, Tim and Jason Ackerman, Mark Brian Michaelsen, Jaquelin Kurtzweil and Lauren and Alyssa Stroud.

A Special Thank You to the staff of Bakersfield Dialysis Center for showing such care and kindness to Art for the last 3 years. A Memorial Service will be held at the Erickson and Brown Funeral Home Chapel on Saturday, October 11, 2003 at 1:00 p.m. A reception will follow at the Moose Lodge.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Optimal Hospice, Kidney or Cancer Foundations or Soroptimist International of Taft for which their "helping hand" was a blessing. Our Art is now listening to his favorite opera or big bands and catching the Big Fish! There are no visitation hours scheduled and the arrangements are under the direction of the Erickson & Brown Funeral Home.
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Judy Stroud
April 11, 1907 - April 16, 2003

Funeral services will be held in the Erickson & Brown Funeral Home Chapel on Saturday morning at 11:00 a.m. for Taft resident, Judy Stroud, 96. Rev. Sam White, pastor of the Cuyama Assembly of God, will officiate. Burial will follow be in the West Side District Cemetery.

Mrs. Stroud was born in Heinricksrod, Bohemia, Czechoslavakia on April 16, 2003. She moved to Taft in 1945 and she owned and operated Judy's Dress Shop in Taft for over 25 years. Mrs. Stroud was a member of the Business and Professional Women's Club and she was an avid bowler.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Kenny Stroud, in 1980. Her survivors include her son, Arthur Stroud of Taft; her grandchildren, Kathy Akerman of New Jersey, Judy Michaelson of Salinas and David Stroud of Bakersfield and by six great grandchildren.

Friends are invited to pay their respects on Friday from 3:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. and again on Saturday from 9:00 a.m. to service time at the Erickson & Brown Funeral Home.
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Lillian Alice Stroud
December 13, 1926 - January 13, 2010

A funeral service will be held in the Erickson & Brown Funeral Home Chapel on Saturday, January 16, 2010 at 2:00 p.m. for longtime Taft resident, Lillian Alice Stroud, 83. A private burial will take place at a later date in the West Side District Cemetery.

Lillian was born on the family farm near Doniphan, Missouri. She passed away in her home in Taft at the very time when her nurse Kitty was to be back. She never wanted to be late or have anyone wait for her. She moved to Derby Acres in late 1946 with her husband, Carl Spell, then later to Taft where she made her home for 58 years.

Her family and home were the main part of her life, but she always worked as a waitress. She finished that career at the White Elephant where she was known to spoil many customers. She later became a caregiver and finally the owner of Taft's last beer bar Art's Corner. Lillian was raised on the family farms in Ripley County, Missouri, where she fell in love with that handsome Spell boy, Carl. They missed the Ozarks but knew the oilfields was the living. Each summer the trip was made to the Spell farm to visit and provide wonderful memories for their children. In 1965 Carl left for greener pastures. Broken hearted, Lillian became even more of a survivor. In 1973 she married her love and dance partner, Arthur Stroud. In this marriage she gained a truly wonderful son, David. As Art's health declined she devoted herself to his care and making sure the "Corner" was taken care of.

Lillian was preceded in death by her parents Lionel and Ruth West; husband Arthur Stroud; siblings, Mary, Bud, Barbara, Wanda, Evelyn, and Bonnie; and by her grandson, Nick Spell. Her survivors include her daughter, Gail Huffmon and Lewis Platt of Taft; son, David Stroud and Lisa of Bakersfield; absent son, Gary Spell of Arizona; brothers, Sony and Bette West of La Habra and John and Betty West of Banning; her very special grandson, Greg Spell, whom she always felt safe in his arms when he would move her; special caregivers, George Terry, who always made her smile, Kim Spell, Sonja Spell and Sue Hester; many more grandchildren, great grandchildren, and we would add a few more greats in the mix. A special thank you to the Optimal Hospice staff that made her life wonderful the last 3 months, Kitty, Tonya, Bridget, and pastor Ken for the singing she enjoyed.

Those who wish to pay their respects may do so on Friday from 3:00 p.m to 8:30 p.m. again on Saturday from 9:00 a.m to service time at the Erickson & Brown Funeral Home. The arrangements are under the direction of the Erickson Brown Funeral Home. www.EricksonAndBrown.com
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Margaret "Greta" Ann Struble, 100
July 11, 1896 - November 9, 1996

Committal is at 1:00 p.m. Friday at Inglewood Park Cemetery for former West Side Resident Margaret "Greta" Ann Struble, 100. The Rev. Galen Goben will preside.

Miss Struble was born July 11, 1896 in La Moure, North Dakota, and passed away November 9, 1996 at her home in West Los Angeles. She graduated from La Moure High School in 1913 and attended Teaching College in Chicago, Illinois. She taught in Fellows for 19 years. After moving to Los Angeles, she graduated from the University of Southern California in 1943 and taught in Culver City until retiring.

Her survivors include her nieces, Marjorie Nunamaker of Bainbridge Island, Washington, Dorothy Martin of Los Alamitos, Carole Struble of Santa Maria; four grandnieces; three grandnephews; six great grandnieces; and two great grandnephews. Mrs. Struble was preceded in death by her parents, William and Elizabeth Evans Struble; a brother, Stanley Struble; a sister, MIldred Struble; a niece, Carolyn Bower; and a nephew, Glenn E. Struble.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Humane Society or a favorite charity. Arrangements are under the direction of Callahan Mortuary.
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Daniel Randolph Stuart
November 19, 1964 - July 1 2007

Visitation for Daniel Randolph Stuart of Taft, California will be held on Thursday, July 5, 2007 from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the West Side Memorial Services (1150 4th Street) and again on Friday, July 6, 2007 from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Funeral Services will be held on Saturday, July 7, 2007 at 9:00 a.m. at West Side Memorial Services Sunset Chapel with burial to follow at West Side District Cemetery. Daniel passed away at his home on July 1, 2007.

Born November 19, 1964 in Santa Cruz, California to Marie Lavona Fitzpatrick and Arden Dean Stuart. Daniel was a great son, brother, father, uncle and grandfather. Daniel was a person who loved not only his family, but nature. He loved to go fishing and camping every chance he got. He also was an avid fan of the Raiders. Daniel has worked in construction for the past three years for General Production Services in Taft, California.

Daniel is preceded in death by his step father Edwin Fitzpatrick. He is survived by his loving wife Laura Jeanne Stuart, his mother Marie Lavona Fitzpatrick; father Arden Dean Stuart of Oroville, California; son Daniel Stuart; son Joseph Stuart; daughter Ashlie Jo Stuart; grandson Jesse Stuart; sister and brother-in-law Lavona and Dennis Callaghan; brother Dean Stuart; brother Jonathon Stuart; sister and brother-in-law DeeDee and Ed Fowler. Daniel is also survived by his nieces Carolann, Amy and Nicole; his nephews Ryan and David, greatnliece Gwyn and great nephew Carter.

For further floral and service information, please contact West Side Memorial Services at 763-1594. You may log on to our website at www.westsidememorial services.com and sign the online guest book. West Side Memorial Services - Porteous Family have been entrusted with the arrangements.
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William "Bill" Stubblefield
Sunrise October 13, 1918 in Maricopa, California
Sunset January 15, 2009 in Maricopa, California

On January 15, 2009 William "Bill" Stubblefield made a transfer to heaven at 8:43 p.m. surrounded by family. He was the last of three children born to homesteaders WM Riley Stubblefield and Sadie Pearl (Jobe) Stubblefield. He was one of the last surviving of all the second generation homesteaders.

He was preceded in death by his father, mother, twins Laura and brother Walter, one niece, Rosalie and his beautiful granddaughter, Donna Nicole Wilson. He is survived by his wife of 58 1/2 years, Alberta; daughters and their spouses, Patricia and Dale White and Janine and John "JJ" Wilson; his son and his wife, Bud and Mary Stubblefield; grandchildren, Jake Stubblefield, Andrew Holland, Katy Beecher and her husband, Brody and Shane Stubblefield; great-grandchild, Kallie Stubblefield; and many nieces, nephews and cousins.

Bill graduated from Maricopa High School in 1936, then took over the ranch in Cuyama at the age of 14 after his father's death. He then was drafted into the Army Engineers and served 4 1/2 years, helping to build Alcan Highway and built air strips in the Aleutian Islands. Bill was loved and respected by the young and old. He will be missed by many friends and family.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the Alzheimer's Association of Optimal Hospice. Funeral services will be held in the Erickson & Brown Funeral Home Chapel on Wednesday, January 21, 2009, at 1:00 p.m. with burial following in the West Side District Cemetery. Viewing will be held on Tuesday, January 20, 2009, from 3:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. and again on Wednesday from 9:00 a.m. to service time at the Erickson & Brown Funeral Home.
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Gene "Skip" Stumbaugh
November 1, 1993 - July 12, 2001

Gene "SKIP" Stumbaugh of Apple Valley, California for 42 years, passed away at St Mary Rev. Med. Crt., in Apple Valley on July 12, 2001.

Gene was born in Taft, California he was 67 years old. Gene was formerly a Seargent for the California Highway Patrol in Victorville, California for 20 years. He served in the Navy from 1952-1956 as a Communications Technician, he was also a member of Ascention Lutheran Church in Apple Valley, California.

Survivors include: Barbara Stumbaugh,wife of 49 years of Apple Valley, Daniel Louis Stumbaugh, son of Cusseta, Lonny Duane and Debby Stumbaugh son and daughter-in-law of Taft, David Logan and Michelle Stumbaugh son and daughter-in-law of Apple Valley, Travis Stumbaugh, grandson of Taft, Jerrod and Zackary Owens grandsons of Taft, Logan Stumbaugh, grandson of Apple Valley, David Rust, grandson of Apple Valley, California and Jade Danielle Lines, granddaughter of Virginia.

Graveside services will be held Tuesday, July 17, 2:00 p.m. at Sunset Hills Memorial Park, 24000Wealew Road, Apple Valley, inturnment will be at Sunset Hills Memorial Park in Apple Valley, California. Sunset Hills Mortuary in Apple Valley is in charge of arrangements.
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Susan Stumbaugh
December 18, 1927 - February 25, 2009

Susan Penny Stumbaugh, 81, of Taft died February 25, 2009 at home. Born December 18, 1927 in Oakland, California to Edward W. And Margaret Taft Whitaker. Graduated Taft Union High School in 1945, active in Westside Friends of the Library, Salvation Army, and the Republican Party. Retired from Paul Lukens Accounting, Taft. Avid bowler, bridge and pool player.

Preceded in death by husband, Harry Stumbaugh, on July 1, 1981; twin sister, Shirley Webb of Bakersfield, on June 6, 2007, and sister, Margaret "Marnie" Wight of Taft, on December 11, 2003. Survived by daughter, Linda (Richard) Palmer of Hilo, Hawaii; son, Duncan Enoch of Rio Vista, California; two granddaughers, one grandson, two great grandsons, three nieces and a nephew.

Private family gathering planned. Arrangements by Erickson & Brown Funeral Home.
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Ellen Boughen Sturdevant
April 28, 1915 - August 8, 2002

Chapel services for Ellen Sturdevant will be held Thursday, August 15, 2002 at 2:00 p.m. at the Hillcrest Mortuary Chapel.

Ellen was born in Los Angeles and moved as a child to Taft. She attended Taft High School and Taft Junior College. She married Hollis Sturdevant and the couple had two children. She was a resident of Bakersfield since 1951.

She is survived by a son, George A. Sturdevant Ph.D.; a daughter Marilyn J. Jones; two grandsons, Robert J. Jones, Jr., and Jeffrey A. Jones M.D.; two granddaughters, Julie Larson and Margie Limbeck; two great grandchildren, Casey Jones and Elizabeth Jones.

Ellen was an active member of the First Assembly of God Church in Bakersfield for over 50 years. For many of those years she supervised the Sunday School's primary grades.

Visitation will be Wednesday from 4:00 to 8:00 p.m. at Hillcrest Memorial Park & Mortuary.
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Norma Faye Stutz
February 9, 1930 - August 17, 2001

In celebration of Norma Faye Stutz as she went home to be with our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on August 17, 2001 in Tehachapi.

She was born on February 9, 1930 and was raised in Taft, California. Norma moved to Cuyama, California when she was 16 years old. She married Eugene Stutz in 1948 and had four children and retired to Tehachapi in 1977. Norma devoted her life to the ministry and service of our Lord Jesus Christ as well as to her loving husband of wonderful 53 years. She enjoyed quilting, gardening, and rock hunting, but her church came first.

She is survived by her husband (Eugene Stutz); four children, (Rick, Cheryl, Kathleen and Trish); and eight grandchidren and her church family. Norma, we await the day that we shall be with you and our Lord forever!

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in her memory to Youth Group 180 at Christian Life Assembly, P.O. Box 1480, Tehachapi, California 93581. A memorial service will be held on August 24 at 11:00 a.m. at Christian Life Assembly, 920 Valley Blvd., Tehachapi, California 92561.
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Eleanor "Ellie" Sullivan
April 28, 1926 - February 10, 2012

A graveside funeral service will be held in the West Side District Cemetery on Friday February 17, 2012 at 1:00 p.m. for longtime Taft resident, Eleanor "Ellie"Sullivan, 85. Rev. Scott Pearson will officiate at the service.

Mrs. Sullivan was born on April 28, 1926 in Adams, Massachusetts and passed away on February 10, 2012 in Taft. She worked in Taft for many years as a waitress and a meat cutter at Westside Market and Marvin's Meat Market. She was a lecturer for Weight Watchers and had managed the Fox Hotel along with her husband, Jim. Mrs. Sullivan enjoyed barbershop harmony and she sang bass in various Sweet Adelines Quartets while living in Taft and Bakersfield. She also sang at the Shamrock Cellar. She was a member of the Taft Emblem Club for several years. Mrs. Sullivan was the director of the Sweet Adelines in Taft and also in Great Bend, Kansas while living in Kansas.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Howard and Mildred Taylor; her brothers, Harry and Kenneth Taylor; and by her great grandson Brett Hickernell. She is survived by her husband of 47 years, Jim Sullivan of Taft; her daughters, Judy Kirkpatrick and her husband, Ken of Taft, Patsy Williams of Bakersfield, and Susan Rogers and her husband, Ron of Bakersfield; her son, David White of Taft; and her daughter, Connie Martin and her husband, Tom of Taft; her step-son, James Sullivan and his wife, Leah of Liberty Lake, Washington; her 15 grandchildren and 35 great grandchildren.

In lieu of flowers the family suggests donations by made to Optimal Hospice. The family would like to extend their deepest gratitude to the staff of Optimal Hospice and the West Side Senior Care for their loving care. There are no visitation hours scheduled and the arrangements are under the direction of the Erickson & Brown Funeral Home. To convey condolences of sign an online registry, please visit: www.EricksonAndBrown.com
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Gary Dean Sullivan
July 11, 1956 - September 11, 2009

Graveside funeral services will be held in the West Side District Cemetery of Friday, September 18, 2009, at 2:00 p.m. for Taft resident, Gary Dean Sullivan, 53.

Sullivan was born in Shawnee, Oklahoma on July 11, 1956 and passed away on September 11, 2009 a result of injuries sustained in an auto accident. He was raised and educated in Taft and graduated from Taft Union High School in 1974. Mr. Sullivan had been employed as an oilworker for over 35 years.

He was preceded in death by his father, Douglas E. "Gene" Sullivan in 1998. His survivors include his mother, Helen Sullivan of Taft; his siter and her husband, Debra and Larry Laney of Carrollton, Texas; his brothers, Jerry Sullivan and his wife, Charlene of Bakersfield, Randy Sullivan of Bakersfield and Douglas Sulllivan of Taft; by several nieces and nephews and great nieces and nephew.

No visitation hours have been established and the services are under the direction of the Erickson and Brown Funeral Home.
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James Byron Sulliavn
June 18, 1921 - December 2, 2008

James Byron Sullivan 1921 - 2008. Born on June 18, 1921 inTaft, California to James and Gertrude Sullivan, Jim passed away December 2, 2008.

Survived by his daughter, Vickie Saunders; stepdaughter, Diana MacDonald; stepson, Terry Hoffman; and brother, Don Sullivan. Jim is also survived by 4 grandchildren and 7 great grandchildren.

Jim worked for Standard Oil Company in Taft, Coalinga, Greeley and Bakersfield, California for 30 years. His passsions were fishing, both in the ocean and freshwater areas and playing the stock market. Jim is preceded in death by his wife, Dorothy; his parents, James and Gertrude; and his sister, Shirley.

There will be no services as requested by jim.
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Paul Swartz
April 12, 1891 - April 29, 1968

A coroner's inquest was held this afternoon over the body of Paul Swartz who died suddenly last evening at the jury bringing in a verdict of "organic heart trouble."

Swartz was employed by the oil company as boiler fireman. He had apparently completed his work shortly after 8:00 o'clock last evening and just started up the stairway of the derrick room to leave when he was stricken down. His body was found shortly after death by an employee of the company, and was in a sitting posture just at the foot of the stairway.

He was not married, but a sister lives somewhere in the east. The body was shipped to Bakersfield this afternoon by William Brooke of the Taft Undertaking Parlors, and interment will be made in the cemetery at that place.
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David Joe Sweaney
November 11, 1939 - January 30, 2004

David left this world peacefully on Friday, January 30, 2004, at home with his loving family around him. He was born November 11, 1939, in Long Lane, Dallas County, Missouri, the fifth of eleven children born to Wiley and Lucile Sweaney.

He is survived by his wife of 43 years, Karen and by their daughters: Laura and husband, Dan Kaspar of Bakersfield; Marianne and husband, Robert Walson of Benicia; and by his grandchildren, Lindsay and Kelly Walsh, and Jeremy and Tyler Walson. He is also survived by his mother Lucile of Riverside; his sisters and their families: Eileen Kirley of San Bernardino. Karen Plunkett of Merino Valley, California, Michele Peters and Vicki Duncan of Riverside and Susan Rankin of Seneca, Missouri: an aunt Kathy Sweaney of Taft, California: nieces and nephews and cousins in California and Missouri. He was preceded in death by his father, Wiley; brothers Larry, Warren, Richard and Michael of Riverside, California and sister Blanche Trout of Redbluff, California.

David attended schools in Long Lane, Missouri and Riverside. He was in the first graduating class of Riverside's Ramona High School in 1958. He married Karen Brann in 1960 and their two daughters were born in Riverside. The family moved to Kern County in 1963, first Taft, then Bakersfield. He earned an Associate of Arts Degree in 1973 from Bakersfield City College. He was employed by Standard Oil Company and Chevron USA for 27 years beginning in 1963 as a roustabout in the drilling department, and he retired in 1990 as a Head Instrument/Electrician for the Production Department, Northern California Division.

David enjoyed camping, fishing, cooking and reading, particularly geography and history. Most especially he enjoyed traveling. He and Karen traveled extensively in the western U. S. in numerous foreign countries in Asia, the Middle East, Europe and Australia.

Our beloved husband, father and grandpa will be deeply missed by all his family, but he has left us with many wonderful gifts - a legacy of love, a strong sense of right and wrong, his sense of humor, and the importnce of a strong and loving family. His great strength and love have given us what we need to carry on in his absecnce.

Chapel and graveside services will be held on Wednesday, February 4, 2004, at 2:00 p.m. at Hillcrest Memorial Park, 9101 Kern Canyon Road, Bakersfield, California 93306. Visitation will be Tuesday 4:00 - 8:00 p.m., at Hillcrest Mortary. Contributions may be made to Opitmal Hospice Foundation, P.O. Box 80538. Bakersfield, California 93380 or American Cancer Society, 1523 California Avenue, Bakersfield, California 93304.
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Demona Ruth Sweet
February 3, 1923 - November 18, 2006

Private graveside committal services will be held at the Riverside National Cemetery in Riverside, California for long time Taft resident Demona Ruth Sweet.

Demona Sweet was born on February 3, 1923 in Indiana to Elmer and Ann Robinson, and passed away at home in Taft, California with her family by her side on Saturday, November 18, 2006. Demona was a fun loving mother, grandmother and friend to those that knew and loved her. She enjoyed spending time with her family, and loved collecting nik-naks.

Demona is survived by her two daughters; Roberta Barr and Ruth Kramer; 13 grandchildren; 17 great-grandchildren; and many nieces, nephews and close friends. She is preceded in death by her husband of 50 years James R. Sweet, son; Stephen Sweet and son; James Sweet.

West Side Memorial Services has been entrusted with the funeral arrangements.
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Gloria Ann Swope
November 15, 1995 - February 14, 1996

Graveside services were held this afternoon in the West Side District Cemetery for baby Gloria Ann Swope. Her great-aunt, Mickey Dunning, officiated at the services.

Gloria was born on November 15, 1995 in Bakersfield and passed away at her home in Taft on February 14, 1996. Her parents lovingly called her "Our November Rain."

She was preceded in death by her grandmother, Lana Evon Naive. She is survived by her parents, Jim B. and Bea Swope of Taft; two brothers, Corie Lee Gerarden of Shafter and Kenneth Brian Swope of Taft; her grandparents, James L. Swope of Taft and Pat Swope of of Chandler, Arizona; her great grandparents, Norman and Beatrice of Guadalupe; three aunts, Cindy Child of Taft, Laura Lagman of Chandler, and Elaine Evon Padgett of Paso Robles; and an uncle, Jerry Gerarden on Paso Robles.

There will be no visitation. The funeral services are entrusted to the Bonewell Family at the Taft Funeral Home.
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Melinda Gail Swope
August 18, 1971 - April 3, 2013

A funeral service will be held in Westside Believers Fellowship on Wednesday, April 10, 2013, at 11:00 a.m. for Taft resident, Melinda Gail Swope, 41. Pastor Ron Griffith will officiate and burial will follow in the West Side District Cemetery.

Mrs. Swope was born in Hollywood, California on August 18, 1971 and passed away at her home in Taft on April 3, 2013. She was a member of the 1989 graduating class of Taft Union High School and was also a graduate of Taft College. She was a faithful member of Westside Believers Fellowship. She enjoyed cooking and cherished her children and the time she spent with them.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Robert and Willaine Jones and her grandmother, Nina Meeker. Mrs. Swope is survived by her husband,Ken Swope of Taft; her children, Nikki Luna, Katie Swope, Kris Swope, Kira Swope and Kody Swope all of Taft; her sister, Michelle Dunham of Maricopa; sisters-in-law, Diane Swope and Christie Vanover both of Taft; her mother-in-law and father-in-law Mary and Larry Swope of Maricopa; her nephews and nieces, Aaron, Kaylee, Chase, Jocee, Taylor, Michael, Rodney, Parker and Hailey.

Visitation will be held onTuesday, April 9, 2013, form 3:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at the Erickson & Brown Funeral Home. To express online condolences please visit. www.EricksonAndBrown.com
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Robert Allen Swope
June 19, 1975 - January 10, 2014

A funeral service will be held on Tuesday, January 21, 2014, at 10:00 a.m. at the First Baptist Church, 220 North Street , Taft, for Robert Allen Swope, 38. Pastor Scott Pearson will officiate and burial will follow in the West side District Cemetery.

Robert was born on June 19, 1975 at Memorial Hospital in Bakersfield, California. He loved his family, friends and children, his dogs and sports, especially the Lakers. He was always so proud of his son, Michael Ryan Campbell.

He is survived by his parents, Larry Wayne and Mary F. Swope; brother, Ken Swope; brother, Ken Swope; adopted brother, Steven Lawless; sisters, Diane Swope and Christie Perry; aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, nephews and friends.

Allen was called home on January 10, 2014 to join his grandparents, Walter and Ora Lee Swope and Van and Rhea Vanover and his sister-in-law, Melinda Gail Swope. Our hearts are broken; you will be forever missed. Viewing will be held at the Erickson & Brown Funeral Home on Monday, January 20, 2014, from 3:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. To express on line condolences please visit www.EricksonAndBrown.com.
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