John T. Middleton

J T Middleton, 83, passed away Tuesday, September 6, 2011, at his residence in Abilene. Funeral services are 10:00a.m. Friday, September 9, 2011 at Woodlawn Church of Christ. Burial will follow in Elliott-Hamil Garden of Memories Cemetery under the direction of Elliott-Hamil Funeral Home, 542 Hickory St. A visitation will be from 5 to 7p.m. Thursday evening at the funeral home.

J T was a humble man who led his family in a quiet Christian way. He was a faithful servant of the Lord's church for many years and served as a deacon at Woodlawn Church of Christ in Abilene, Texas. J T was better known to some as "Jake", especially those who worked with him in the dispatch unit of West Texas Utilities. J T retired from WTU after 36 years with the company.

J T grew up in Nugent, Texas, graduated from Leuders-Avoca High School, attended Texas Tech University for two years, and then entered the Navy in April of 1946. He sailed with Admiral Byrd to the South Pole, and when prodded would tell stories of their adventure. He served in the Navy for two years.

On June 24, 1955, J T married Mary Grace Fore in Graham, Texas. They enjoyed playing bridge with friends, keeping up with the grandkids and traveling together.

J T is survived by his wife of fifty-six years, Mary Fore Middleton, two daughters, Jill Casey and husband Tommy of Graham, TX, and Xan Holub and husband Dorman, also of Graham, TX; and a son, Walter Middleton. He was dearly loved by his family, which includes four grandchildren: Avery Casey and wife Erica; Lauren Casey and fiancé Devin Stewart; Henry Holub and wife Lindsey; and Jake Holub. J T is also survived by two sisters, Aileen Scott of Keller, Texas and Louise Crawford of Abilene, and a brother, Alton Middleton of Abilene.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Lena Moorehead Middleton and John T. Middleton, and a sister, Zona Bell Winn.

Memorials may be made to Foster Children's Home in Stephenville, 1779 N. Graham St. Stephenville, TX 76401, or West Texas Rehab, 4601 Hartford, Abilene, TX 79605 or the Alzheimer's Assoc., 301 S. Pioneer Dr. Ste. 105, Abilene, TX 79605.