Louise Bennett Stripling lived 97 good years and, on January 27th, died at her home. She was born in Teague, Texas, December 2, 1912. She was preceded in death by her husband, Dr. C.H. Stripling. Surviving family members include two sons and their wives, S. Hogan & Joyce Stripling (Jacksonville) and Clifford B. & Carolyn Stripling (Marble Falls), and a daughter, Louisa Schmid (Jacksonville). Grandchildren number eight: Jeff Stripling (Austin), Kimberly Spinks (Tyler), Susan Edwards (Frisco), Jay Stripling (Chicago), Rob Schmid (Fort Worth), Lara Schmid (Fort Worth), Sonja Larison (Lipan, TX) and Gregory Chapa (Houston). There are 10 wonderful great grandchildren: Aaron, Cameron, Kendall, Casey, Cody, Carolyn Jane, Mary Beth, Brendan, Ryan and Drew. This list of family cannot be complete without a special mention of Ms. Stacey Nash, CNA, a compassionate companion, friend and skillful caregiver for Louise during the last few years.
Jacksonville was home to Louise for most of her life. She was a member of the First United Methodist Church. She attended Lon Morris College and Stephen F. Austin University, married in 1934 and taught school in Dialville, Texas. As her family grew, she became a full time homemaker. Every member of the family loved to sit down and enjoy her meals. She was an accomplished pianist and a fair artist. Travel was her passion. Together with her husband they journeyed far, to Europe, Africa, Canada, South America and Mexico, and near throughout the United States. She was a daring driver in their Winnebago as she maneuvered through roads better suited for the Model T she first learned to drive. Crossword puzzles feared her sharp pencil and sharper mind. Hershey bars must have been her secret to longevity; one a day and always extra on hand for the kids, grand or great grand. Her sense of humor lasted until the end. Whether we knew her as “Mom” or “Granny”, she was a central part of our family life. We all love her deeply and we will miss her greatly.
Family visitation will be 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM, Friday, January 29th at Autry Funeral Home, 1025 SE Loop 456, Jacksonville, 903-586-6262. Graveside services will be at the Bullard City Cemetery, 11:00 AM, January 30th.
Memorials may be made to Hospice of East Texas, HOPE, Heifer International, Habitat for Humanity or to the charity of the donor’s choice…or just give someone you love a huge hug. She’d like that too.
