Abilene Texas

Abilene, Texas, established as a stock shipping point on the Texas and Pacific Railway in 1881, is located in Taylor County, with a portion extending into Jones County. It rapidly became the principal city of the region, serving as a hub for cattle ranching, farming, and oil production. The establishment of Abilene marked a significant shift in the economic landscape, catering to the needs of settlers and the burgeoning industries. The city’s growth was further accelerated with the founding of institutions such as Simmons College (now Hardin-Simmons University) in 1891 and Abilene Christian University in 1906. Genealogical research in Abilene is supported by records dating back to the city’s incorporation, including census data, property records, and historical archives maintained by local libraries and the Taylor County Clerk’s office. The Clear Fork of the Brazos River, a geographical feature significant for early settlers and Native American tribes, notably the Comanche, marks the region’s natural history and has influenced settlement patterns and economic development.

Stevens, William Odell – Obituary

William Odell Stevens, 54, of Baker City, died July 2, 2004, at his home. His funeral will be at 10 a.m. Wednesday, at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 2625 Hughes Lane. Bishop Thomas Brock of the Valley Ward will conduct the service. Interment will be at Mount Hope Cemetery. Visitations will be until 7 o’clock tonight at Coles Funeral Home. Bill was born July 29, 1949, at McNary, Ariz., to Robert Odell and Geneva R. Pettyjohn Stevens. He married Nancy Jefferies on Nov. 9, 1974, at Phoenix, Ariz. They moved to Baker City in 1981 from Abilene, … Read more

Wood, Timothy – Obituary

La Grande, Oregon Timothy Wood, 57, of La Grande, died Oct. 10 at a local care center. A full obituary will be available later. Loveland Funeral Chapel and Crematory is in charge of arrangements. La Grande Observer – October 12, 2009 ________________________________ Timothy J. Wood La Grande 1951-2009 Timothy Joel Wood, 57, of La Grande, died Oct. 10 at Evergreen Health and Rehab Center of a fast-growing brain tumor. Services will begin at 1 p.m. Saturday at the Church of Christ with Minister Doug Edmonds officiating. Viewing will be one hour before the service. Burial will be later in Phoenix … Read more