June 21, 1958 – June 10, 2026
NOCONA – Mark Dean Hancock, 67, died on June 10, 2026.
A memorial service will be from 2-4 p.m. on June 28 at the Turquoise Owl in Nocona.
He and his twin, Mike, were born on June 21, 1958, in Gainesville to Harvey F. Hancock and Jean (Hancock) Shears. He graduated from Nocona High School in 1976. He also attended North Texas University. He had several careers in his lifetime—the Boys’ State School in Gainesville, Tucker Rocky Distributing and numerous oilfield companies.
He is preceded in death by his parents; a half-sister and grandparents.
He is survived by two sons, Ben Hancock and Sam Hancock; brothers, Harvey Hancock and Mike Hancock; sisters, Kathy Tomlinson and Patty Crabtree; two grandchildren; numerous nieces, nephews; and great-nieces and nephews.
Arrangements entrusted to Jerry Woods Funeral Home, Nocona.

April 20, 1952 – June 13, 2026
LAKE DALLAS- William Thomas Nichols, 74 passed away peacefully into the presence of his Lord and Savior on June 13, 2026.
A memorial service will be at 11 p.m. on June 20 at Southside Baptist Church in Bowie with pastors Tony Rogers and Mike Henson officiating
He was born on April 20, 1952 in Bowie to Dean O Nichols, Sr and Sophia Pauline (Moser). Thomas was raised in Bowie where he attended local schools and was an active member of Southside Baptist Church during his childhood.
Thomas graduated from Bowie High School in 1970 where he distinguished himself as a talented athlete. He excelled in basketball and track and proudly served as the team’s starting quarterback.
He continued his education at East Texas State at Commerce. Thomas devoted much of his working life to serving others as a delivery driver for Ben E. Keith. He enjoyed being out on his routes and cherished the friendships and connections he made with his customers over the years. He later began a career with Albertson’s where he remained a valued employee until retiring.
Thomas called Lake Dallas home for more than 45 years, where he formed lifelong friendships and touched the lives of many. He had a passion for cooking and was a familiar competitor at American Legion and VFW cook-offs. He earned more than 50 cooking contests throughout the years, many with his super-secret chili recipe.
Thomas treasured the time he spent with friends at the American Legion and VFW, whether playing pool, sharing stories or watching his beloved Dallas Cowboys. His warmth, friendship and love of the community will be remembered by all who knew him.
A devoted animal lover, Thomas had a particular fondness for cats and lovingly cared for many over the course of his life. His kindness and generosity were reflected in his longstanding support of animal rescue organizations and a variety of charitable causes.
Thomas Nichols was preceded in death by parents, Dean O Nichols, Sr. and Sophia Pauline (Moser), Bowie; brother, Danny Joe Nichols, Ardmore, OK and sister-in-law, Marita (Wilson) Nichols, Tyler.
He is survived by his brother, Dean O. “Don” Nichols, Jr.; niece, Lisa Nichols Lowrance and her husband, Michael; niece, Lori Nichols Thomason and her husband, Andy; great niece, Sophia Rose Morros; great nephew, Adam Thomason as well as many other friends and extended family.
The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to Hospice of East Texas in Tyler for their compassionate and exceptional care they provided to Thomas during his final days.
Arrangements entrusted to the Steward Family Funeral Home, Tyler.

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December 27, 1958 – June 12, 2026
BOWIE – Larry Joe Allen, 67, passed away peacefully on June 12, 2026 with his dad by his side.
A small graveside service was at 10 a.m. on June 17 at Montague Cemetery.
Larry was born on Dec. 27, 1958 to Bill and Lahoma Allen. He spent his life in Montague County where he grew up, attended school and built memories with the people and places he loved.
Larry was a quiet man who loved simple pleasures. He was content with a good movie (always preferring a classic western to anything modern), a day at the lake with friends and classic rock playing on the radio or a joy ride to Wichita Falls on his motorcycle.
His greatest source of pride was his son, Jeremiah. He reveled in all of Jeremiah’s accomplishments and his pride in him spilled out of him.
He became “Grandpa Larry” when Jeremiah’s children, Charlie and Lucy, came on the scene, and he settled naturally, lovingly and enthusiastically into that role.
He spoke often of his devoted dog, Brandy, a faithful companion who brought him comfort and happiness during her life and who was a permanent piece of his heart after her passing.
Larry is preceded in death by his mother, Lahoma Allen.
Larry is survived by his father, Bill Allen; sister, Cindy Bell; brothers, Rusty Allen and Danny Buck; son, Jeremiah Allen; daughter-in-law, Lori Allen and his grandchildren, Charlie Allen and Lucy Allen.
In lieu of flowers, those wishing to make a donation in Larry’s memory may do so to Hospice of Wichita Falls. The family is so very grateful for their grace, guidance and comfort over these past weeks.
Larry will be remembered for his love of family and friends, his gentle spirit and the joy he found in small-town life and its unique adventures. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.
Arrangements entrusted to White Family Funeral Home, Bowie.

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