Lillie Mae Denton

Lillie Mae Denton of Ballinger passed away Friday, July 25, 2008 at Ballinger Memorial Hospital. She was 100 years old and was honored earlier this month with a birthday reception at her son’s home.

Lillie was born July 2, 1908 near Naruna in Burnett County, Texas to George and Mallie (Foree) Morgan. She married John Thomas Denton on March 9, 1924 in Paint Rock, and the family lived in the Hess-Averitt Community west of Eola for many years before moving to Ballinger in 1947. In Ballinger Lillie worked as a clerk in several stores, including the shoe factory, which many old-time residents will remember. She was a member of the Ninth Street Church of Christ and a loving, devoted wife, mother, and homemaker.

She was preceded in death by her husband on March 3, 1987, by her parents, a daughter, a son, and three brothers.

Lillie is survived by her son, Odell Denton of Ballinger, who has been her caregiver for the past several years. Also surviving are grandchildren, Terry Denton and wife, Marinda, of Ballinger; Tamela Park and husband, Steve, of Georgetown; Sharon Watley and husband, Cliff, of Irving; Clifton “Buddy” Smith and wife, Susan, of Australia. There are eight great-grandchildren and 21 great-great grandchildren who will remember or be told of their 100-year-old great-great-grandmother. Those who assisted in Lillie’s care over the past several years will miss her and cherish her memory, as will family and other friends.

A time of visitation will be held Saturday, July 26 from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. at Lange Funeral Home in Ballinger. Funeral services will be conducted Sunday, July 27 at 2:00 at Lange Funeral Home Chapel with Max Pratt officiating. Burial will follow in Old Runnels Cemetery near Ballinger.