Blooming Grove Historical Society

Blooming Grove Historical Society Contact information, map and directions, contact form, opening hours, services, ratings, photos, videos and announcements from Blooming Grove Historical Society, 201 S. Fordyce, Blooming Grove, TX.

Wife of Robert "Bill" Smith Daughter of Charlie Smith and Ethel Lee (Lewis) HollingsworthJohnnie Odessa (Hollingsworth) ...
08/13/2026

Wife of Robert "Bill" Smith
Daughter of Charlie Smith and Ethel Lee (Lewis) Hollingsworth

Johnnie Odessa (Hollingsworth) Smith
July 4, 1920 - Aug. 10, 2026

Johnnie Odessa Smith "Granny" age 106 passed away peacefully on August 10, 2026, at Twilight Nursing Home. She was born on a bright sunny Sunday morning in a farmhouse near Emhouse, Texas on July 4, 1920. Her parents were Charlie and Ethel Lewis Hollingsworth. She was the middle of five siblings.

She attended school in Blooming Grove, graduating in 1937 as an honor student. Although small in stature, she played all the girls sports.

In July of 1936 she gave her life to the Lord. She was baptized at Central Baptist Church in Blooming Grove and began a lifelong service to her Lord and Savior, Jesue Christ. Even in failing health she attended and participated in as many activities at Central as she could.

Her family lived through the Great Depression. Since there was no money and she was too young to work, she held several menial jobs until she was 15. Later she worked for the City of Blooming Grove as secretary, as a Post Office clerk, and for Field Grocery Store and bookkeeper. She married the love of her life, Robert Bill Smith on April 4, 1940. Bill served over three years in the Army Air Corp (later becoming the United States Air Force) in World War II. When he returned, they moved to Dallas and both worked for Proctor & Gamble. After retiring they moved back to Blooming Grove.

In August of 2020, at the age of 100 years old, she decided it was time to go to Twilight Nursing Home. She came alive while at Twilight. She took it upon herself to check on several residents daily, visiting them, taking them snacks and coffee. She would see someone sitting alone and go up to them, put her arm around them and say, "Jesus loves you and I do too."

Watching the Dallas Cowboys was her favorite past time. She also loved going to her grand and great grandkids sporting events.

She is preceded in death by her parents, husband, two brothers and two sisters. She is survived by her daughter Jo McKee. Grandchildren; Rick Montalvo, Sandy and Roger Mahoney. Great grandchildren and great great grandchildren; Ashley, Cory, Madison, Brittini, Marcos, Ryan, Faith, Zayne, Zach, Jessice, Melissa, Brandon, Aryanna, Aaron, Michael, Lindsey, Tristan, Sarah, Kaden, Lexi, Beau and Remi. She is also survived by several nieces and nephews, her family at Twilight and her family at Central Baptist Church.

Celebration of Life will be held Monday, August 17, 2026, at 11:00am at Central Baptist Church in Blooming Grove. Viewing will be held prior to the service beginning at 10:00am. Burial will be at Rose Hill Cemetery with Deacons form Central Baptist Church serving as pallbearers.

A very special thanks goes to Arc Hospice and to Twilight Home in Corsicana. Memorials can be made to JOY at Central Baptist Church in Blooming Grove.

Obituary for Matthew Bolen GillenIn Loving Memory of Matthew Bolen GillenJune 28, 1982 – June 20, 2026Matthew Bolen Gill...
06/26/2026

Obituary for Matthew Bolen Gillen
In Loving Memory of Matthew Bolen Gillen
June 28, 1982 – June 20, 2026

Matthew Bolen Gillen, 43, passed away on June 20, 2026, leaving behind a lifetime of stories, laughter, friendship, and love. Though his time with us ended far too soon, the memories he created will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

Born on June 28, 1982, Matthew was the beloved son of Larry Drew and Shelia Gillen and the younger brother of Jason Drew Gillen. He graduated from Allen High School in 2000 and later graduated from Texas Tech with a major in Biology and a minor in Chemistry. He was a devoted husband to Lori Gillen and a loving father to his daughters, Sage and Codi Gillen, who were the center of his world.

An accomplished football player in his younger years, Matthew carried that same competitive spirit and determination throughout his life. He loved spending time outdoors hunting and fishing, but his greatest joy came from the people he loved, especially his family and friends.
Matthew was, by all accounts, one of a kind. He possessed a goofy sense of humor that could lighten any room and a personality larger than life itself. He seemed to have both the best luck and the worst luck of anyone who knew him, often finding himself in situations that became legendary stories among family and friends.

Life with Matthew was never boring. Planning was never really his style. Rather than carefully mapping things out, he preferred to jump headfirst into whatever came his way and figure it out as he went. This approach turned even the simplest outing into an adventure, as Matthew navigated each moment in real time with equal parts confidence, optimism, and improvisation.

He also had an undeniable passion for discovering truly awful food trucks and the most obscure and questionable eating establishments imaginable. Somehow, what most people would drive past without a second glance became a destination worth exploring if Matthew was involved.

Matthew never met a dog he didn't love, and over the years he welcomed more than his fair share into his life. His affection for animals matched the loyalty and kindness he showed to the people around him.
Above all else, Matthew was a devoted father who adored Sage and Codi. He was a dependable and loyal friend to many; someone people could count on when it mattered most. His generosity, humor, and genuine heart left an impression wherever he went.

Matthew's absence leaves a space that cannot be filled, but his stories, laughter, and unforgettable spirit will continue to bring smiles to those who loved him. He will be deeply missed, forever remembered, and always loved.

Matthew is survived by his wife, Lori Gillen; his daughters, Sage and Codi Gillen; his parents, Larry and Shelia Gillen; his brother, Jason Drew Gillen, his wife, Stephenie and their children Morgan and Mason, grandmother, Carolyn Gillen, and countless friends and extended family members whose lives were made better by knowing him.

He was preceded in death by his grandparents Charles Drew Gillen, Bob Bolen, and Helen Bolen.
May he rest in peace, and may his memory forever be a blessing to all who knew him.

Graveside Funeral will be 10:00am Thursday, June 25th at Rose Hill Cemetery.
There will be a reception following at 11:00 at the New Beginnings Family Fellowship Church in Blooming Grove. In lieu of flowers please make donations to New Beginnings Family Fellowship Church

John Milton PutmanFebruary 3, 1954- June 13, 2026John Milton Putman, 72, of Navarro Mills, Texas, passed away peacefully...
06/26/2026

John Milton Putman
February 3, 1954- June 13, 2026
John Milton Putman, 72, of Navarro Mills, Texas, passed away peacefully on June 13, 2026, surrounded by his loving family.

John was born on February 3, 1954 in Corsicana to John C. and Melba Putman. He grew up in Navarro Mills and spent his life building meaningful relationships, serving others, and creating countless memories with family and friends.

John attended elementary school in Corsicana before moving to Blooming Grove, where he completed his school years. He graduated from Blooming Grove High School in 1972 and later attended Texas State Technical College (TSTC), where he earned his HVAC license. Throughout his career, John worked in several different fields and attended mortuary school. He eventually opened his own business, Airtech A/C & Heating, which he successfully operated until his retirement in 2011.

John’s greatest joy and proudest accomplishment in life was his two sons Josh and BC, and his grandchildren, who lovingly called him “Papa John.” He loved spending time with them, teasing them, and keeping everyone laughing with his endless jokes and playful pranks. We often joked that John was the biggest kid in the room. Whether it was a sporting event, school program, birthday party, or stock show, Papa John showed up whenever he could, usually with a pocket full of candy and always with a smile on his face. His love, laughter, and presence created countless cherished memories that his grandchildren will carry with them forever.

John was a member of the Methodist Church in Blooming Grove, Texas. He dedicated more than 20 years to officiating football games with the Corsicana and Waco chapters. John also volunteered his time with the Navarro County Youth Expo for over 30 years, serving on the Poultry Show Committee. He had a deep love for animals and enjoyed deer hunting, track and field, playing music, and spending time with his friends and family.

For the past 18 years, John shared his life with his sweetheart, Charlene. Together they built a relationship filled with love, laughter, and unwavering companionship. They enjoyed countless adventures, shared endless jokes, and stood by each other through life's joys and challenges. Their bond was one of friendship, devotion, and deep affection, and the memories they created together will be cherished forever. Our family is forever grateful for Charlene and her commitment to John.

John was preceded in death by his parents, John C. Putman and Melba Putman.

He is survived by his love of 18 years, Charlene Coker; his son, Josh Putman and wife Brittany, and their children, Karter and Kodi; his son, B.C. Putman and his children, Madison, Brody, and Parker; Patricia and Rickey Looper and their children, Ryleigh and Reid; and Hank and Trena Macik and their children, Matthew and Katelyn. His loving brother, Sherman Putman and wife Dawn; and their children, Stephanie Putman Lasley, Tiffany Putman Muirhead, Brody Clay and Shandee; as well as many cherished nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

While our hearts are broken, we rejoice in the promise of eternal life through Jesus Christ. His race is finished. His faith has become sight. His love remains with us always.

"I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith." — 2 Timothy 4:7

Rose Hill Cemetery Annual Meeting. Sunday June 14, 2026
06/11/2026

Rose Hill Cemetery Annual Meeting. Sunday June 14, 2026

02/05/2026

Blooming Grove Historical Society
Valentine Fund Raiser
Fri., Feb. 13th - 7:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Order now through school, in person or by phone.

Valentines Day is approaching and we are ready for our annual Blooming Grove Historical Society fund raiser. This helps us through the year to pay for electricity, insurance and upkeep to the building. We are offering our Valentine gift arrangements which consist of a Valentine container, Valentine Mylar balloon, small stuffed animal and candy. A card will be attached with your name and Valentine greetings. The cost will remain at $12.00 and we also deliver to Blooming Grove Elem., Jr. High and High School as well as homes in the B.G. City limits. We have had great response for many years from parents and love the way everyone working at the schools have welcomed this event. Since Valentines Day falls on a Saturday this year, we will be delivering on Fri., Feb. 13th. All of the arrangements are different and suitable for all ages. Order early through the schools (order forms have been given to the schools and are to be given to the students) or call these numbers. (903)-695-2633, (903-875-8195 or (903)229-7181. Come by and make a selection or leave it all up to us. If we are not at the building, just give us a call. We are located across the street from City Hall. We appreciate all of you.

01/25/2026

This is information that we have received from Tillman Ferrell about Reba Ferrell’s service.

“Due to the awful weather forecast, we have cancelled Reba's Memorial Service planned
for Sunday, Jan. 25th. It has been rescheduled for Sunday, Feb. 22., 2:00 to 4:00 PM, Dresden Methodist Church”

Address

201 S. Fordyce
Blooming Grove, TX
76626

Website

Alerts

Be the first to know and let us send you an email when Blooming Grove Historical Society posts news and promotions. Your email address will not be used for any other purpose, and you can unsubscribe at any time.

Contact The Business

Send a message to Blooming Grove Historical Society:

Shortcuts

Share