Reba Geraldine Bearden

Reba Geraldine (Ballard) Bearden was born June 6, 1929, in Bee House Texas, and died September 4, 2011, in Odessa, Texas. Because of her love for her family and her gift of making true friendships, what a wonderful life Gerry lived and created for others.

Her life began as the first child of Bee and Cecil Ballard. She enjoyed sharing stories of growing up on their farm in Purmela located in Coryell County. A special joy was added to the family when her younger sister Sharon (Ballard) Jeremenko was born the year Gerry graduated from Gatesville High School. The relationship between these sisters is the story of love and deep respect.

She married Paul D. Bearden, an A&M graduate and WWII veteran, December 17, 1949. They enjoyed a rich, loving marriage for over 60 years before his death in 2010. During these years, her family included her beloved nephew J Hudson Carl and later her favorite brother-in-law Peter Jeremenko.

Gerry and Paul worked for Phillips Petroleum Company in Odessa, Texas, where they made their home since 1950, and developed many enduring friendships. After retirement from Phillips, Gerry continued her involvement in Jane Phillips Sorority and also worked not only in business, but in community service and in her church.

She spent her entire life making lives around her more joyful.

Visitation is at Frank W. Wilson Funeral Home 6:00-8:00 p.m., Tuesday, September 6, 2011. Services will be held at First Presbyterian Church 11: 00 a.m., Thursday, September 8, 2011, with Jim Longstreet officiating. Interment will be at Pearl Cemetery in Coryell County at 11: 00 a.m. Friday September 9, 2011.

The poet Langston Hughes wrote: I loved my friend.

He went away from me.

There's nothing more to say.

The poem ends, Soft as it began

I loved my friend.

Memorials can be made to the charity of your choice.

Services are entrusted to Frank W. Wilson Funeral Directors.