In Remembrance of the '68 Class Family and Friends

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.

Dot Hall Bell, sister of Elizabeth "Liz" Hall

  72, of Nederland, passed away on Wednesday, November 19, 2025. A resident of the Nederland area for forty-five years, Dot was born in Port Arthur, Texas, on February 3, 1953, to Robert “Bob” Hall and Aline Hall.
Dot began her professional life serving patients as a dedicated dental hygienist in Mid-County. In her later years, she embraced her most cherished role—that of “Nana”—devoting her time, energy, and heart to her beloved grandchildren. She was also a faithful member of St. Charles who enjoyed serving the parish through her work with Faith Formation classes and as a Eucharistic minister.
Dot is survived by her children and grandchildren: her daughter, Jennifer Bell Epperly, and husband, Troy, of Austin; her sons, Clint Bell and wife, Lori, of Moss Bluff, Louisiana, and Cliff Bell and wife, Meredith, of Prosper. She leaves behind nine grandchildren— Ryan Bell and wife, Ashleigh, Kalynne Epperly, Dylan Bell, Hannah Epperly, Wilson Bell, Carter Bell, Peyton Bell, Campbell Epperly, and Brenley Bell. She is also survived by her sister, Elizabeth Burns, and husband, John, of Prosper, as well as numerous cousins, nieces, and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Bob and Aline Hall, three siblings, and her husband, Peter Bell.
A Rosary for Dot will be recited at 4:00 p.m., with a gathering of her family and friends to follow until 6:00 p.m., Friday, November 28, 2025, at Broussard’s, 505 North 12th Street, Nederland. A Memorial Mass will be celebrated at 10:30 a.m., Saturday, November 29, 2025, at St. Charles Borromeo Catholic Church, 211 Hardy Avenue, Nederland. Her ennichment will follow at Oak Bluff Memorial Park, Port Neches.
In Lieu of flowers, the family requests that those who wish to express sympathy consider making a donation to St. Charles Borromeo Youth Ministry, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, American Cancer Society, MD Anderson Cancer Center, or a charity of one’s choice.

Charlie Fitzpatrick, husband of Linda Louise Davis

  81, of San Antonio, Texas, and Wilmington, New York, passed away peacefully on December 28, 2025, at his home in Wilmington. Celebrations of his life will be held at a later date in May near Wilmington, New York, and at a graveside service with full military honors at Ft. Sam Houston National Cemetery in San Antonio, Texas.
Charlie was born in New York City (Bayside Queens), New York, on October 29, 1944, to John and Mary (Nolan) Fitzpatrick. He attended Xavier High School and then Fordham University where he received a Bachelor of Arts degree in 1966 and a Master of Arts degree in 1968. From 1968 to 1972, he served as an officer in the U.S. Army.
After an honorable discharge from the Army, he received a Juris Doctor degree from St. Mary's University School of Law in 1975. He was a member of Phi Delta Phi and the John M. Harlan Society and served as an associate editor of St. Mary's Law Journal from 1974 to 1975. He was recently recognized by the State Bar of Texas as a 50-year member.
Charlie was Managing Partner of Egan, Fitzpatrick, Malsch & Lawrence, PLLC, having joined Joe Egan to form the firm in 2001. Prior to that, he was a senior partner in the Texas-based firm of Strasburger & Price, L.L.P., which frequently teamed with the Joe Egan’s firm on large nuclear matters.
Charlie had significant experience in a broad range of civil litigation, including jury and nonjury trials, arbitration, and mediation involving federal and state antitrust actions, toxic tort cases, and litigation involving complex nuclear power plant construction and operation, and was admitted to practice in both state and federal courts including all state courts in the state of Texas, all federal courts in the state of Texas, as well as the United States Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit, and the United States Supreme Court.
Charlie had many friends who have remembered him fondly saying, “we had a friendship with him that was both fun and valuable”; “I am going to miss that man; we had many a great conversations and he is truly one of a kind”; he was “A real friend in the old fashioned sense”; “Charlie was a friend that was enormously influential in protecting [his clients] for many decades”; I was “privileged to work with a good man and fine lawyer”; “Charlie was a lovely man and delightful to.

Charles Alton Williams, brother of David Williams

  Charlie was in the first class to graduate from the new Thomas Jefferson HS in 1960 and also fromLamar Tech in 1968 with a degree in mechanical engineering. He lived in the Baton Rouge area most of his life where he loved the cajun food and cajun culture. He is survived by two sons and four granddaughters all in the Baton Rouge area and brother, David H. Williams and wife, Lee of San Marcos, TX.

Diane Delagarza, sister of Ernie Castaneda

  70, of George West, Texas, passed away Wednesday, August 6, 2025, in Corpus Christi.
Diana was born November 1, 1954, in San Diego, Texas to Simeon Carrillo and Guadalupe "Lupe" Tamez. She attended George West High School and earned an associate's degree from Del Mar College, laying the foundation for her professional journey. She dedicated her life to her family and career in the food industry, notably working at TexBest for five years.
Throughout her life, Diana cherished her family, always finding joy in their accomplishments. She was a faithful member of St. George Catholic Church. She took great pride in watching her grandchildren, Aaron Trevino, excel in football and celebrated Aubrey and Luis, as they played softball and baseball. Her warm spirit extended to her hobbies, which included a love for gambling and purchasing lottery tickets.
Diana was preceded in death by her father, Simeon Carrillo; mother, Guadalupe (Tamez) Garcia; stepfather, Marcario Garcia; as well as her first husband, Jose “Joe” Luis Perez; and a sister, Graciela (Carrillo) Turner.
Survivors include her devoted husband, Eliberto “Bert” Delagarza; her children, Sherry Perez (Arnold) Trevino, Marcella (Luis) Jasso and Tres Delagarza; and her cherished grandchildren, Aaron Trevino, Aubrey Jasso and Luis Jasso III. She is also remembered fondly by her sisters, Ludivina “Ludy” Carrillo Carvajal, Virginia “Vicky” Carrillo D’Amato, Irma Carrillo Johnson and San Juanita “Janie” Carrillo Cuevas; and by her nieces and nephews, Oscar Carvajal, Javier Carvajal, Jaime Carvajal, Ricardo “Ricky” J. Martinez, Sara M. Martinez, David Steward and Mario Cuevas.
Visitation will start at 2 p.m. Tuesday, August 12, 2025, with a Rosary to be recited at 2:30 p.m. at St. George Catholic Church in George West.
The funeral Mass will be celebrated there at 3 o’clock that afternoon with Father Romeo Salinas officiating. Burial will follow at St. George Catholic Cemetery.
Pallbearers will be Arnold Aaron Trevino, Mario Cuevas Jr., Raul Munoz, Tres Delagarza, Luis Jasso and Jesse Valverde.

Lana Arpin Parker, wife of Ruelle Parker

  Lana Marie Parker, a beloved figure in the community, departed this world on August 8, 2025. Lana was born on November 16, 1950, in Port Arthur, Texas, to Lawrence and Inez Arpin. She spent the majority of her life residing in Groves, Texas. She graduated from Port Neches-Groves High School, where she participated as a cheerleader, and subsequently earned her bachelor's degree in education from Lamar University. Her career in education spanned 33 years, with 28 years dedicated to teaching at Taft Elementary within the Port Neches-Groves Independent School District. Lana was deeply committed to supporting both teachers and staff throughout her tenure.
Following her retirement from teaching, Lana was elected to the Port Neches-Groves School Board in 2009, serving diligently for 15 years.
Lana is survived by her husband of 55 years, William Ruelle Parker; her daughter, Charisse Short, along with her husband Richard Short and their children, Trey Short and Phoebe Short; her daughter, Tamara Parker Ivy, and her husband, Preston Ivy; as well as her sister, Kathy Arpin. She was preceded in death by her parents, Lawrence and Inez Arpin.
Family and friends are invited to attend visitation for Lana on August 17, 2025, from 1:00–3:00 PM, with a service beginning at 3:00 PM at Clayton-Thompson Funeral Home.
Lana Marie Parker’s legacy will continue to inspire those who had the privilege of knowing her. She will be profoundly missed but forever remembered with the deepest love and affection by all whose lives she touched.
Donations in Lana Parker’s name may be made to the Port Neches-Groves Educational Foundation, P.O. Box 134, Port Neches, TX 77651, as an alternative to sending flowers or plants.

Linda Faulk, wife of Mike Faulk

  Beloved wife, mother and Nana, passed away on August 7, 2025 in Orange, Texas at the age of 75 surrounded by her loving family.
Born on November 9, 1949 in Port Arthur, Linda graduated from Nederland High School and attended Lamar University, where she received her Bachelor and Master’s Degrees in Education. Her teaching career began in Port Arthur, but she soon found her way to Bridge City ISD where she would spend 33 years as a dedicated teacher, first teaching Kindergarten, 2nd grade, and later 5th grade Science. She was a much-loved educator and so enjoyed her time with her students and co-workers over the years.
After her retirement, Linda could be found spending more time enjoying all the things she loved. She was a loving hands-on Nana who treasured living near her four grandsons. She attended all of the boys’ events, always cheering them on with love and pride. She looked forward to the Faulk family summers spent at Crystal Beach, taking long walks looking for beach glass and shark’s teeth. She and her husband Mike developed a love of cruising and sailed on 54 cruises in their retirement years, visiting locations all over the Caribbean, Alaska, Mexico, and even the Panama Canal. Linda was well-known for her love of flowers and gardening, and could often be found working in one of her numerous, beautiful flower beds. She had a heart for animals and carried pet food in her car in case she met a kitty in need. Linda had a special relationship with each of her daughters and together they enjoyed fun shopping outings, lunches, and grabbing a margarita or sangria. Linda was a devoted and loving caregiver to her mother Emma in her later years.
Linda leaves behind a loving family who cherished her deeply. She was the devoted wife of Michael Faulk for 53 years, sharing a lifetime of memories beginning when they first met in high school. Linda is also survived by her two daughters, Malinda Boudreaux and husband Jared, and Christy Stephenson and her husband Nathan. Her legacy continues through her grandsons, Grant Boudreaux, Luke Boudreaux, Seth Stephenson, and Jude Stephenson, each who brought great joy to her life.
In addition to her immediate family, Linda is survived by her sister, Sharon Turner and husband Mike, who reside in La Grange, Texas as well as her brother James “Jim” Richey and his wife Cynthia, who live in Longview, Texas.
She was preceded in death by her parents, James and Emma Richey, and her brother, John David Richey.
A visitation will be held at St. Paul United Methodist Church, located at 1155 W. Round bunch Road in Bridge City Texas, on August 11, 2025 from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM. Following the visitation, a funeral service will be held at the same location at 1:00 PM, honoring the life of Linda Faye Faulk. A private burial for family members will be held afterwards at Oak Bluff Cemetery in Port Neches, Texas.
In remembrance of Linda’s love for animals, donations can be made to The Humane Society of Southeast Texas and Meezer’s Mission Cat Rescue.