December 2024

Dear Editor: The Van Zandt County Sheriff’s Office will soon experience a milestone, the retirement of Sheriff Joe Carter. Not too long ago, the VZC Sheriff’s Office experience some major problems, and Joe Carter was asked to accept the position of Interim Sheriff and correct the complications.

As I transition from my role as a college coach to General Manager and Assistant Head Football Coach of a new professional team in a new league, I reflect on the incredible journey at Texas A&M University- Commerce, now called East Texas A&M University. Over the past six years, I’ve had the privilege of being part of the first staff in school history to win 11 games in our inaugural season, making it to the third round of the D2 playoffs.

1946 – 2024 Funeral services for Bruce Allen Stewart, 78, of Canton, were held at 11 a.m. on Thursday, December 19, 2024, at Eubank Funeral Home in Canton, with his beloved friends, Mr.

1967 – 2024 Funeral services for Phillip Wayne Ford, 57, of Wills Point, were held Saturday, December 14, 2024, at Hiett’s LyBrand Funeral Home in Wills Point. Visitation was held one hour prior to the service.

1955 - 2024 Services for Mrs. Beverly Adkins Ryan, 69, of Grand Saline, were held Saturday, Dec.

1935 – 2024 Funeral services for Donald Ray Hollister, 89, of Wills Point were held Saturday, December 21, 2024, at Russell Memorial Methodist Church. Visitation was held one hour prior to service time.

2005-2024 Services for Lucas Draven Blackmon, 19, of Grand Saline were held Thursday, Dec. 19, at New Testament Holiness Church, with Bro.

1968 – 2024 Services for Marianna Scott, 56, of Edgewood, were held December 17, 2024, at Hiett’s LyBrand Funeral Home in Wills Point. Marianna passed away on Dec.

With the countdown to Christmas Day continuing, a number of holiday activities, including parades, have already taken place or will be happening soon in Van Zandt County. Following a postponement Dec.

Christmas Tree Lighting in Van.