In Remembrance of the '68 Class Family and Friends

Deborah “Debbie” Morgan, sister of Becky Morgan

  Deborah “Debbie” Morgan, a cherished resident of Groves, Texas, passed away peacefully on April 10, 2026, at The Medical Center of Southeast Texas at the age of 71. Born on June 15, 1954, in Port Arthur, Texas, Debbie’s life was marked by kindness, dedication, and a deep love of family and community.
Debbie attended Port Neches Groves High School, where she laid the foundation for a life filled with meaningful connections and service. She dedicated more than 20 years of her career to Bruces Market Basket, retiring after decades of loyal service. Her commitment and warm personality touched the lives of many who knew her through her work.
An artist at heart, Debbie had a passion for oil painting, which provided her a creative outlet and joy throughout her life. She was also an avid animal lover, actively supporting Life Force Animal Rescue, demonstrating her compassionate nature and dedication to giving voice and care to animals in need.
Beyond her creative and charitable pursuits, Debbie found happiness in the simple pleasures of gardening and feeding hummingbirds, activities that reflected her gentle spirit and love for the natural world. She enjoyed visiting the casino occasionally and treasured antiquing with her aunt. Above all else, Debbie's favorite pastime was gathering with family, where she found joy and fulfillment.
Debbie was preceded in death by her beloved mother, Lucille (Breaux) Morgan and beloved father, Sidney Morgan and stepmother, Patricia Morgan. She is lovingly remembered and survived by her siblings: Dennis Morgan and his wife, Jeanette; Becky Jackson and her husband, Thomas; and Terry J. Morgan. She also leaves behind a host of nieces, nephews, and extended family and friends who will carry forward her memory with affection and respect.
Visitation to honor and remember Debbie will be held on Tuesday, April 14, 2026, from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m., with a Celebration of Debbie's Life to begin at 2:00 p.m., at Melancon Levingston Funeral Home in Groves, Texas. Interment will follow at Greenlawn Memorial Park. These gatherings will provide a space for loved ones and friends to reflect on her life and share their cherished memories.
Debbie Morgan’s legacy is one of warmth, dedication, and love. She will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege to know her. Her life story remains a testament to the impact one individual can have through kindness, passion, and steadfast devotion to family and community.

Ronnie Abate, husband of Joyce Marceaux

  78, of Lumberton, Texas, passed away on April 5, 2026. He was born on June 10, 1947, in Port Arthur, Texas. Ronnie was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather who cherished his family above all else. He found great joy in caring for those he loved and created a lifetime of memories through his kindness, strength, and unwavering support. He enjoyed spending his time hunting and fishing, and he especially treasured playing poker with his father and brothers—moments that brought him laughter and lasting connection.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Jack Abate and Lucille Abate; his brothers, Victor (V.J.) Abate and Luther Abate; and his sister, Virginia (Ginger) Wilson.
Ronnie is survived by his loving wife of 55 years, Joyce Abate; his daughters, Lisa Laird of Groves, Angie Doise and her husband Allen of Lumberton, and Rhonda Bonin and her husband Scott of Montgomery. He also leaves behind his cherished grandchildren: Mason and Lyndsay Salazar, Justin and Jenna Salerandi, Hayden Thibodeaux, Alyse Doise, Addison Doise, Montgomery Bonin, Stratton Bonin, Ranger Bonin, and Ella Laird; his great-grandchildren, Davis Salerandi and Myla Salazar along with several nieces and nephews.
Ronnie will be remembered as a loving and devoted family man—a wonderful husband, a proud father, and a deeply cherished grandfather. His presence, guidance, and love will be greatly missed by all who knew him.
A visitation will be held on on Tuesday, April 7, 2026 beginning at 5:00 pm with a rosary at 6:0o pm at Melancon Levingston Funeral Home , 1605 Avenue H, Nederland, Texas. A Mass to celebrate Ronnie’s life will be held on April 8, 2026, beginning at 10:00 a.m. at St. Charles Borromeo Catholic Church, located at 211 Hardy Avenue, Nederland, Texas. Family and friends gather together to honor his memory and the profound impact he had on their lives. The final resting place for Ronnie will be at Memory Gardens in Nederland, where a graveside service will be held following the funeral service.
Pallbearers are Abe Abate, Lance Abate, Scott Bonin, and Gina Wilson with Stratton Bonin and Ranger Bonin as honorary pallbearers.
Ronnie James Abate’s passing leaves a void that cannot be filled, but his spirit endures in the love he gave and the family he raised. He will be remembered with deep affection, respect, and gratitude for a life well lived. May he rest in eternal peace.

Susie Baker, sister of the late Steve Baker

  known and loved by so many, passed away peacefully on March 18, 2026, at home in Port Neches, Texas. She was born on January 10, 1954, in Port Arthur, Texas.
To most, she was simply “Susie,” and to many, she was also known as “Coach Baker,” a name that carried just as much love and familiarity as she did.
Susie graduated from Lamar University with her Bachelor’s degree in Physical Education. She dedicated over 40 years to the Port Arthur Independent School District, teaching and coaching at Travis Elementary, Edison Middle School, Stephen F. Austin, Thomas Jefferson Middle School, Tyrrell Elementary, and several other schools throughout her career. She coached basketball, volleyball, track, and many other sports throughout her career.
She loved what she did, and it showed. Susie didn’t just teach, she built relationships. Her students were her kids, her coworkers were her family, and she gave her time, her energy, and her heart to all of them. So many people will remember the way she showed up for them, believed in them, and never stopped caring.
Susie was a lifelong member of First United Methodist Church, a place that was part of her upbringing and family history. In her younger years, she served as president of the GRA Girls Recreation Association, something that reflected her natural leadership and her heart for others.
If you knew Susie, you knew her hugs. There wasn’t a person she came across that didn’t get one—that was just her. She loved the beach, where she found peace, and she loved being surrounded by her family. She had a way of making people feel comfortable, always ready with a hug, a laugh, or one of her silly jokes that could brighten your whole day.
Susie was preceded in death by her parents, Francis Melvin Baker and Katie Lou Comfort Baker; her beloved life partner, Donna Worthington; her brother, Steve Baker; and her brother-in-law, George Thomas.
She is survived by her sister, Becky Baker Thomas.
Her nieces, Chera Hargrave and her husband Jack, Shayna Thomas, Amber Conner, Mindy Marse and Ashley Baker Her great nieces, Lauren Louviere and her husband Lance, and Shaylea Thomas.
Her great nephew, Cade Latiolais and his wife Graci.
Her great-great niece, Liv Bren Louviere.
And her beloved fur pup, Carmen, who stayed right by her side.
Each of them held a special place in her heart, and her love will continue to live on through all of them.
Visitation to honor Susie’s life will be held on Monday, March 23, 2026, from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. A funeral service will follow on Tuesday, March 24, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. Both services will take place at Melancon-Levingston Funeral Home, 5601 39th Street, Groves, Texas. She will be laid to rest at Greenlawn Memorial Cemetery in Groves, Texas.
Susie’s life was full of love, dedication, and showing up for others. She gave so much of herself to her family, her students, and her community, and that love will continue to be felt in all the lives she touched.

Dorothy Kathleen “Kitty” Lyons, mother of Carolyn Lyons

 99, of Pflugerville, died Thursday, February 26, 2026. She was born to Frances Young Miller and Marshall Miller on May 27, 1926, in Ville Platte, Louisiana.
Mrs. Lyons enjoyed reading, playing games and cards, and embroidering. In her younger days she spent her time gardening and canning. Kitty was a great cook and loved fishing with her husband, Leonard.
Survivors include daughters, Sheryl White of The Village, Arkansas; Katherine Tulare, of Pflugerville, Texas; Carolyn Lyons, of Port Hueneme, California; sons, Len Lyons, Jr. and his wife, Yolanda, of Stockbridge, Georgia; Ricky Lyons and his wife, Emily, of Hemphill, Texas; Kenny Lyons of Pflugerville, Texas; grandchildren, Kate Showalter of Norway; Kyle Showalter of Lumberton, Texas; Cindy Lyons of Pflugerville, Texas; Angie McMillan of Los Lumas, New Mexico; Angelia Mohr of Baton Rouge, Louisiana; J.J. Brooks of Port Hueneme, California; Shane Brooks of Cary, North Carolina; Donny Lyons of Pflugerville, Texas; Brandon Lyons of Magnolia, Texas; Gabriel Lyons, Michael Lyons, Emma Lyons, all of Hemphill, Texas; and eighteen great-grandchildren.
She is preceded in death by her parents, and husband, Leonard Donald Lyons, Sr.
A gathering of Mrs. Lyons family and friends will begin at 1:00 p.m., with her funeral service at 2:00 p.m., Thursday, March 5, 2026, at Broussard’s, 505 North 12th Street, Nederland. Her interment will follow at Memory Gardens Cemetery of Jefferson County, Nederland.

Robert Steven “Steve” Hicks

 passed away peacefully on January 7, 2026, surrounded by the family he adored, after an eight-year battle with cancer. Steve was a loving husband, devoted father, loyal friend, successful businessman, and generous philanthropist. Above all, Steve will be remembered for his kind and gentle heart and his unique ability to make people feel seen and loved. Steve made the world a better place.
Steve was born on February 24, 1950, in Dallas, Texas, the third of four sons of John Hardin Hicks Jr. and Madelyn Ollis Hicks. He grew up in Dallas, Port Arthur, and Beaumont. He achieved the rank of Eagle Scout in 1964 and graduated from Forest Park High School in 1968. He served in the U.S. Coast Guard before going to college. Steve attended the University of Texas at Austin, earning a Bachelor of Arts in Government in 1972. At UT, he was a proud member of Sigma Phi Epsilon and The Silver Spurs. Steve often spoke about how his experience as a Longhorn was pivotal in his life — helping him find confidence, embrace leadership roles, and form lifelong friendships. A devoted fan of UT athletics, Steve proudly passed that passion on to his children, stepchildren, and grandchildren.
Steve grew up in the radio business, working as a disc jockey at KLVI, his father’s radio station. After graduating from UT, Steve and Debbie moved to Beaumont to start their family and he began working full time in the family business. At age 29, he bought KLVI from his father, launching a long and storied career as an entrepreneur and business owner.
What began with a single station grew over several decades into a national footprint. In the early 1990s, Steve co-founded and led SFX Broadcasting, Inc., building it into a publicly traded company and one of the country’s largest radio groups. He made radio history by inventing the local marketing agreement (LMA), a breakthrough that changed how radio stations operated and helped return many to profitability. His innovative management approach ultimately helped persuade Congress to change ownership rules through the Telecommunications Act of 1996.
Steve later partnered with his brother Tom and founded Capstar Broadcasting Corp., serving as its CEO. Under his leadership, Capstar acquired more than 50 companies in three years, including SFX, and debuted a successful initial public offering on the New York Stock Exchange in 1998. At its peak, Capstar owned 350 radio stations, more than any company at the time. In 1999, Capstar merged with Chancellor Media Corp., and the combined company was acquired by Clear Channel Communications in 2000.
After stepping away from radio, Steve began a second career as an investor and mentor. Through Capstar Partners, he invested in businesses across many industries, but his true passion was helping entrepreneurs solve complex problems and create long-lasting organizations. He believed as much in people as he did in businesses, and he cherished the friendships formed along the way just as much as the successes. Steve spearheaded successful real estate projects in Big Sky and St. Barth’s and led notable investments, including the acquisition and sale of DMX, Inc., the roll-up of Harden Healthcare, and in 2012, becoming the first outside investor in Kendra Scott Design, helping nurture what became one of Austin’s most beloved companies. Steve was a longtime member of the Young Presidents’ Organization (YPO) and served as Education Chair and Chapter Chair of YPO Austin.
Steve’s love for the University of Texas endured throughout his life. He served on the University of Texas System Board of Regents from April 2009 to May 2023, becoming one of the longest-serving Regents in UT history, and served on The University of Texas Investment Management Company (UTIMCO) Board for a decade. He received the Distinguished Alumnus Award from the Texas Exes in 2018. That same year, Steve made a transformational gift to the UT School of Social Work that was deeply personal to him, inspired by a belief that social workers are “angels” capable of quietly magnifying good throughout their lifetimes. To date, the Steve Hicks Scholars and Fellows Endowment has supported 126 social work students. Steve was also a proud supporter of The Center for Students in Recovery community at UT. He was instrumental in efforts to bring MD Anderson to Austin and could often be found wearing burnt orange, cheering on his beloved Longhorns alongside family and friends.
Giving back to those in need was core to Steve’s identity. He believed strongly in second chances, humility, and showing up for others. In 2010, he created the Rise Across Texas Challenge, a bike ride across the state of Texas benefitting the Rise School of Austin. He was a longtime supporter of Austin Recovery and helped establish the Hicks Family Ranch to support those with addiction. Steve was proud of his sobriety and was a multi-decade member of Alcoholics Anonymous, never missing a Saturday morning meeting when in town. Steve found deep purpose in sharing his experience and mentoring others on their paths to sobriety. He was a longtime supporter of Foster Angels of Central Texas, the Miracle Foundation, and dozens of other charities in his lifetime. Steve modeled generosity for his children and grandchildren not through words, but through action.
Steve was endlessly curious about the world. He traveled to more than 70 countries with Africa holding a special place in his heart. He loved learning from different cultures, asking questions, and listening. He was often quoted as saying, “You can learn a lot more from listening than talking.” In his later years, Steve’s deepening faith became a core part of who he was, and provided great hope and comfort during his cancer journey. Steve was a proud member of The Episcopal Church of the Good Shepherd.
Steve saved his best chapter for his last one — fully soaking up his family. Despite all he accomplished, Steve would tell you his greatest legacy was his family. He was immensely proud of and deeply devoted to his wife, children, and their spouses, stepchildren, and twelve grandchildren. Steve had a boundless heart and was able to love each one unconditionally. His wife Shannon was his great love, and he often said she was “a true gift from God.” With her, Steve found a new light to his life and an internal happiness. Shannon remained by his side through the most difficult days of his cancer journey, offering strength, compassion, peace, and unwavering devotion. Steve excelled at giving love so easily, and in his final years, learned to receive all of that love in return.
Until the end, Steve was surrounded by his beloved wife, Shannon Hicks; his three devoted children, Kristen Hicks Hanson, Robert Steven Hicks, Jr., and Brandon Vaughan Hicks; and his cherished stepchildren, Ryan, Will, and Luke Janek. He was a loving father-in-law to Benjamin Hanson, Carrie Hicks, and Champane Hicks, and a proud grandfather to Jackson, Harrison, Hardin, Kennedy, Steven, Elizabeth, Henry, Jenna, Katherine, Madelyn, Paige, and Carter.
Steve is also survived by his younger brother, Bill Hicks and his wife Paula, his sister-in-law Cinda Hicks, his former wife and friend, Debbie Hicks, his in-laws Carolyn and Jimmy Riddle, and many nieces, nephews, colleagues, and treasured friends.
He will be especially missed by his longtime friend and right hand, Judy Kahn, and by his faithful dog and constant companion, Sully. Steve was preceded in death by his brothers Jay Hicks and Tom Hicks.v Steve’s family extends heartfelt thanks to the incredible team of nurses, staff, and physicians who provided care for him during his time at MD Anderson, especially during the final weeks of his life, including his “QB1,” Dr. Matthew Campbell. These angels know who they are, and we are eternally grateful for your compassion during a very difficult time.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Foster Angels of Central Texas, The Episcopal Church of the Good Shepherd, MD Anderson Cancer Center, or the University of Texas School of Social Work.

Marella Mae Miller, mother of James Miller

 a cherished daughter, devoted mother, beloved grandmother, and great-grandmother, passed away peacefully on February 5, 2026, in Houston, Texas, just days shy of her 97th birthday. She was born on February 13, 1929, in Breaux Bridge, Louisiana, to David Caillier and Lillian Guidry-Caillier.
Marella's life was defined by her unwavering love for her family and her commitment to her role as a homemaker. She was a nurturing figure who dedicated her days to caring for her loved ones, ensuring that their lives were filled with warmth and kindness. Her culinary skills were renowned; she loved cooking and took great pleasure in bringing people together over shared meals. In addition to her culinary talents, Marella enjoyed sewing and had a profound appreciation for plants and flowers, transforming her home into a vibrant sanctuary. Marella was a Charter member of St. Catherine of Siena Catholic Church, also an active member of the Altar Society and Knights of Columbus Ladies Auxiliary, embodying the spirit of community service and fellowship.
Marella is survived by her two sons, James Miller and his wife, Suzanne, and Errol Miller and his wife, Jan, as well as her daughter, Janice Miller. She leaves behind a legacy of love and nurturing through her five grandchildren: Jason, Jody, Amy, Eric, and Rachel and was also blessed with three great-grandchildren: Bennett, Stella, and Bowen, who brought her immeasurable joy. Marella is also survived by her loving sister, Betty Guidry.
Marella was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Francis Miller, and her parents, David and Lillian Caillier. She joins in eternal life with her brothers, Malcolm Caillier, Ralph Caillier and Carroll Caillier; as well as her great grandson, Griffin Everman.
Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, February 11, 2026, at St. Catherine of Siena Catholic Church located at 3706 Woodrow Drive, Port Arthur, Texas. Visitation will begin at 8:30 AM, followed by a Rosary at 10:30 AM, and a Mass at 11:00 AM. Following the service, the interment will be held at Greenlawn Memorial Park in Groves, Texas.
Marella’s life was a testament to love, devotion, and the beauty of family, and she will be lovingly remembered by those whose lives she touched. In lieu of flowers, Family asks to donate to a charity of your choice.

Mike Babin, brother of Carol"Canny" Babin

 Mike Babin, born on March 2, 1948, passed away on November 9, 2025, at the age of 77. A resident of Conroe, Texas, John lived a life marked by quiet strength, deep love, and unwavering devotion to the people who meant the most to him.
Mike was preceded in death by his father, Ovey Babin; his mother, Lily Mae Babin; and his infant brother, Michael John Babin. He is survived by his former wife, Pam Griffin Babin, beloved son, Jonathan Babin; his sisters, Mary Babin Morris and husband Perry, and Carol Babin Prejean and husband Reed; and his beloved soulmate, Nancy Ippolito Seawell.
A Civil Engineer by profession, Mike dedicated many years to his career with AT&T before retiring. Even in retirement, he remained active and engaged, always finding ways to stay busy and put his skills to use. His passion for learning, fixing, and problem-solving never faded.
Mike loved to travel, and he and Nancy shared countless adventures together—memories filled with laughter, discovery, and the simple joy of being in each other’s company. Above all, Mike deeply cherished his family and friends. His heart was generous, his presence steady and comforting, and his love unshakable. A Gathering of Family & Friends will be held on Saturday, January 24, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at St. James Catholic Church, 3617 Gulfway Drive, Port Arthur, Texas. A Mass of Christian Burial will follow at 11:00 a.m. at the same location.
Mike will be laid to rest at Greenlawn Memorial Park, 3900 Twin City Highway, Groves, Texas.
Mike’s memory will forever live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him—a legacy of kindness, dedication, and a life well lived.John "Mike" Michael Babin, born on March 2, 1948, passed away on November 9, 2025, at the age of 77. A resident of Conroe, Texas, John lived a life marked by quiet strength, deep love, and unwavering devotion to the people who meant the most to him.
Mike was preceded in death by his father, Ovey Babin; his mother, Lily Mae Babin; and his infant brother, Michael John Babin. He is survived by his former wife, Pam Griffin Babin, beloved son, Jonathan Babin; his sisters, Mary Babin Morris and husband Perry, and Carol Babin Prejean and husband Reed; and his beloved soulmate, Nancy Ippolito Seawell.
A Civil Engineer by profession, Mike dedicated many years to his career with AT&T before retiring. Even in retirement, he remained active and engaged, always finding ways to stay busy and put his skills to use. His passion for learning, fixing, and problem-solving never faded.
Mike loved to travel, and he and Nancy shared countless adventures together—memories filled with laughter, discovery, and the simple joy of being in each other’s company. Above all, Mike deeply cherished his family and friends. His heart was generous, his presence steady and comforting, and his love unshakable.
A Gathering of Family & Friends will be held on Saturday, January 24, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at St. James Catholic Church, 3617 Gulfway Drive, Port Arthur, Texas.
A Mass of Christian Burial will follow at 11:00 a.m. at the same location.
Mike will be laid to rest at Greenlawn Memorial Park, 3900 Twin City Highway, Groves, Texas.
Mike’s memory will forever live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him—a legacy of kindness, dedication, and a life well lived.