Obituaries

On Thursday March 27, 2025, the world lost a truly beautiful soul when Denise passed away peacefully at her home in her sleep. Denise was born December 3, 1968, to parents Harry and Wanda Fincher. She was welcomed by sisters Sherry, Jeannette and an older brother HD who preceded her in death in 1978. Sister Stacie was welcomed in 1971. Denise tragically lost her precious daughter Lee in 2014.

On Thursday March 27, 2025, the world lost a truly beautiful soul when Denise passed away peacefully at her home in her sleep. Denise was born December 3, 1968, to parents Harry and Wanda Fincher.

James Donald “Don” Jones, 79, of Telico, Texas, passed away on March 30, 2025, peacefully in his sleep after a long battle with cancer. Don was born in Nashville, TN, on January 9, 1946, to John Louis and Doris Louise (McKelvy) Jones. He spent his childhood years in Nashville before moving to Monroe, GA, and later to Atlanta, GA, where he graduated from Sylvan High School in 1964. He then attended technical school.

Ronnie Alan Cikanek, 72, of Ennis, Texas, passed away on Friday, March 7, 2025. Born on June 6, 1952, in Ennis, Texas, to Antone and Adelle Cikanek, Ronnie lived a life defined by integrity, hard work, and an unwavering love for his family. A graduate of St. John’s High School in 1970, Ronnie built a career rooted in dedication and craftsmanship. He brought his work ethic and skill to Coors Distributing and LaDew Fire Protection before finding his home at Leggett & Platt, where he spent 29 years before retiring. He was a valued member of SPJST, KJT, and the Crow Barn Boys Club, where he formed lasting friendships and shared countless memories.

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Elias Vasquez, Sr. on January 27, 2025. Born on August 11, 1941, in Dallas, Texas, Elias lived a life full of love, dedication and hard work. Elias is survived by his beloved wife of 64 years, Cecilia (Escamilla) Vasquez, of Ferris, Texas, and their children: Elias Vasquez, Jr., Angel Vasquez and wife Sylvia, Mario Vasquez and wife LaVonna, and Christopher Vasquez.

t is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Elias Vasquez, Sr. on January 27, 2025.

Born on August 11, 1941, in Dallas, Texas, Elias lived a life full of love, dedication and hard work.

Leopoldo R. Montemayor, lovingly known as Polo, passed away on January 26, 2025, surrounded by his devoted family. Whether he was known as Dad, Tío Polo, or Grandpa, he lived life with an unmatched zest for fun and joy. His vibrant spirit and unique presence touched everyone around him in ways that can never be replicated. He will be deeply missed, but his memory will always serve as a reminder to live life with laughter, love, and high spirits. Polo’s legacy of joy will continue to inspire all who knew him.

Bill McLelland, 82, passed away surrounded by love and family, leaving behind a life filled with cherished memories and a legacy of kindness, dedication, and resilience. Born and raised in Ennis, Texas, Bill graduated from Ennis High School in 1961. His passion for football and education led him to Texas Tech University, where he proudly played for the Red Raiders and graduated in 1969.

Sarah Jane Garrison (Cox), also known as “Aunt SaSa” to her family, was born at home in Cunningham, Texas, on June 25, 1940. Sarah went to be with the Lord on December 4, 2024, at the age of 84. She was a beloved wife and mother preceded in death by her husband James “Jim” McAfee. After graduating from Daingerfield High School in 1958, she attended beauty school, worked at the Ennis Sewing Factory, Texas Instruments and Haggard Slacks. She was a faithful member of Ladies Auxiliary VFW in Garland. After moving to Ennis, she became a member of Calvary Baptist Church. Sarah wore many hats, a jack of all trades, with never a dull moment. Throughout her life, she held an unwavering faith in God, which she shared with those who surrounded her. She held a strong conviction in Jesus and was a steadfast follower.

Genevieve Poage Holmes passed away peacefully at home in Ennis, Texas on December 13, 2024. She was born October 4, 1939, to Walton Poage and Helen Elrod Poage in San Angelo, Texas. She was raised in the ranching and rodeo culture of West Texas and was very proud of her heritage. Genevieve graduated from Rankin High School and Texas Tech University. Following her education, Genevieve taught school in Albuquerque, New Mexico and Ozona, Sanderson, Ennis and Palmer, Texas. She was loved by generations of students and followed the lives of many of them.