Business Meeting
Activities 2010 / 2013
Clippedb luncheons and other meetups. View photos of many of the Clippedb events and gatherings.
Salad Toss
Spring Luncheon
Sherry Party
Spring Luncheon
Our annual May Spring luncheon, scheduled for Wednesday May 6, has been postponed due to the COVID 19 virus. Please watch your emails and our Facebook group, Braniff Clipped B’s for updates and all future announcements.
Hope to see you soon.
Jean Jordan
Rick Marshall
Charlie Stitz called to let us know that Rick Marshall passed away in Austin on 5-17-20.
Rick flew for BI from 1976-1989, then went on to fly for Delta until 2016.
Louise Davis Woodward
Glen Smith
Capt John Tapley
John Tapley, 90, of Arlington, Texas, passed away April 16, 2020 with family by his side.
He lived along the gulf coast until his family settled in Houston, where he became an altar boy and an Eagle Scout. He graduated from Texas A&M University in 1952 where he was a member of the Fish Drill Team, a Yell Leader and a Squadron Commander. He was active duty as an USAF pilot (F-86), reservist and Texas Air Guard. In 1965 he transferred to the Naval Air Reserve and flew the F-8 Crusader. John was a commanding Officer of a Naval Air Reserve fighter squadron, and retired as a Captain. He flew for Braniff Airlines for 32 years, and was Chief Pilot from 1985 to 1990. He also served many years as a simulator instructor at American Airlines. His aviation career spanned fifty years. He was a member of The Daedalians, an organization of military aviators, the Tailhook Association, and the Braniff International Silver Eagles.
John was a loving husband, father and grandfather. He is survived by his wife Carolyn, his son Kyle, his daughter Julie, his grandsons William and John, and nephews Robert and Michael. He is preceded in death by his brother Charles, and his son David. John’s generous spirit and sense of humor will continue on in the hearts of his family and friends.
A service will be scheduled at a later date at the DFW National Cemetery.
Jean Bartosh
Mayo Crum
With sadness we notify you that Mayo Crum, husband of Yvonne Crum who flew from 1964-1989, died on April 2 after a lengthy illness. Yvonne and Mayo have been married 52 years.
We send our condolences to Yvonne and her family.
The Clipped B Board
Mayo Paul Crum, Jr., beloved husband, father and grandfather, passed away peacefully on Thursday, April 2, 2020 at Walnut Place in Dallas, Texas. Mayo was born August 1, 1937 in Dallas, TX to Jeanne and Paul Crum (both preceded him in death). He is survived by his loving wife, Yvonne; son, Michael Patrick Crum; sisters Carolyn Crum Reed (Bobby) and Jeannie Crum Fortson (Joe B); one grandchild, Samantha Jordan Crum. Mayo was preceded in death by his son M. Paul Crum III and brother William Robert Crum. Mayo graduated from Highland Park High School and Southern Methodist University. He was president of M. P. Crum Company, president of Dallas Mortgage Bankers. Mayo was a former member of the Dallas Country Club, SAE Fraternity, Calyx, and enjoyed playing golf. A memorial service will be scheduled later. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Suicide and Crisis Center of North Texas https://www.sccenter.org/.
Yvonne Crum
10625 Northboro
Dallas, TX 75230
Sandra McGill
Pat Greer Harris
With much sadness we notify you that Pat Greer Harris died March 18 of Lewy Body Dementia. Pat flew from 1966 to 1986 and was married to Braniff pilot Paul Harris. Pat loved Braniff and the Clipped B’s, and was an active member until her illness prevented her from participating. No obituary has been posted to date. A celebration of life will be held in the future. Cards may be sent to Paul at:
6335 West NW Highway, Apt. 1013, Dallas, TX 75225.
We extend our sympathies to Paul and his family.
Ray Craighead
Linda Glover
Chuck Martin
Charles Davis “Chuck” Martin (January 12, 1940-March 12, 2020)
Born in Columbia, South Carolina, Chuck attended the University of South Carolina before serving in the South Carolina Air National Guard and Texas Air National Guard. He went to work for Braniff Airlines in 1966 and later Piedmont and USAirways. He loved hunting, skiing, motorcycle trips, boating, working on his jeeps and spending time with lifelong friends.
He passed away at home in Blaine, Washington. He will be laid to rest with his parents in South Carolina
He is survived by his wife of 51 years, Ramona, his daughter Claire, of Redmond, Washington, son Mark, daughter-in-law Marianne and granddaughter Madeleine of Calabasas, California.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to:
Good Samaritan Society-Stafholt
456 C Street
Blaine, Washington 98230
The Stewpot
1835 Young Street
Dallas, Texas 75201
Whatcom Hospice
2800 Douglas Avenue
Bellingham, Washington 98225
Tom Kyger
Anna Lee Weiss
David Grant
Husband of Jane Grant
Teddy Hoge
Pinky Wagner
Kristin Rathnow
Kristin Rathnow passed away unexpectedly in the hospital 11-25-19. Kristin was a German Speaker for Braniff and flew from 68-82. I’m not sure if she did BNF 2. She had been with AA for many years also as a German speaker. She is survived by 2 brothers. She was living in Baltimore and based in Philadelphia when she passed away. Her beother sent Joyce Martin a letter and included his address in Germany if anyone wants to send cards. I posted this on the Braniff Clipped B’s FB group, but didn’t send to you. I posted in the group that she has passed away suddenly.
Lutz Rathnow
Anna Weiss
Lloyd Jones
Just wanted to let you know that my father Lloyd A. Jones passed away New Year’s Eve at 11:30 pm. I think my mom or dad had written something to say at this time for the Braniff list. I will let you know.
Blue skies,
Jeff Jones
Lloyd Jones served both in the Army and the Air Force. He flew for Braniff 1956-1982. In 1983 Lloyd flew for Overseas National (ONA) before coming back for another year at Braniff 2. He then went to United and finally retired in 1990. Lloyd was living with his wife Dee in Tampa, FL and was 92 years old when he passed away.
Tom Brewer
After serving all presidents from Ronald Regan through Barack Obama, serving in most olympics since Atlanta, celebrating 50 years of marriage, locking the gun safe, and turning off the ham radios, Tom has decided to rest.
He had a long struggle with Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s diseases and left us at the age of 76. His last days were spent with the loves of his life, Clint, the son who made him so proud and Becky, a loving wife, who were so honored to care for him. He was also blessed to spend many hours with wonderful family and friends.
He is preceded in death by his parents, Hubert Joseph and Thelma Inez Pirtle Brewer, his sister Denise Jackson, sister-in-law Janis Gentry Williams and father- in- law James Carthel Gentry.
Tom had a gifted wit and sense of humor that kept everyone belly laughing. He always had a joke or story that you’d probably already heard, but got funnier every time because of new embellishments each time told.
He was a friend on whom you could depend. One said, “It is rare to keep friends for a lifetime,” but he did. Another said, “He changed my life forever.” Other phrases came up like, “loaned me money because my need was greater than his, bought a tire when I had a blowout, came and got me when my mother died, bailed out my repossessed vehicle, and let me live with him at a difficult time.” He did those things because he loved, had a kind heart and learned from friends who had done similar things for him. Thank you friends. He will be missed by so many who loved him.
Tom was a man of strong quiet faith. He loved the Lord and his church family.
He was extremely pleased to serve numerous charities in our area.
He is survived by Rebecca D. and Clint Brewer, a sister Del Gearhart, brother Alan Brewer along with cousins, nieces, nephews and many, many friends.
Instead of a formal service, there will be a “come and go” at our home, 2405 Meadow Creek, Carrollton on Saturday, January 18th from 2-4. Please come and share stories that he shared with you.
Becky and Clint want to thank all who have visited, called, texted, brought food, flowers and so many other displays of comfort. A special thank you to Ameristar and Vitas Hospices who so kindly cared for Tom.
Donations can be made to Metrocrest Amateur Radio Society, 12895 Josey Ln., Ste. 124-449, Dallas, TX 75234 or Alzheimer’s or Parkinson’s societies.
Please share with anyone who may have interest.
Helen Parker
Helen Jean (Alexander) Parker of Allen, Texas passed away on December 8, 2019 at the age of 86. She was born on September 19, 1933 to Eddie Millard Alexander and Ethel Eveline Newman in Ardmore, Oklahoma. Helen married William Knight Parker on May 16, 1966 in Dallas, Texas. She worked as a flight attendant for Braniff International Airways from which she retired to start a family with Bill. Helen also had her private pilot’s license. Even after retiring, she loved traveling. Her family will all remember her as a great cook. Helen attended Cottonwood Creek Baptist Church. She was a long time member of the “Clipped B’s”, the Braniff International Retired Flight Attendants Association.
Helen is survived by her son, Scott Howell Parker and his wife, Janet of Allen, Texas; stepdaughters, Carol Crowder of Florence, Texas and Pam Helton and husband, Dwaine of Mesquite, Texas; stepson, William K. Parker, Jr. and his wife, Ahnna of Lubbock, Texas; grandsons, Justin Parker and Travis Parker, both of Allen, Texas; numerous other loving family and friends.
She was preceded in death by her husband, William Knight Parker; parents; and brother, Eddie Alexander.
A funeral service will be held at 2:00 p.m., Friday, December 13, 2019 at Turrentine-Jackson-Morrow Funeral Home Chapel, 2525 Central Expressway North, Allen, Texas 75013. Interment is to follow at Ridgeview Memorial Park in Allen. The family will receive friends during a visitation on Thursday evening from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. at the funeral home.
Alfred Hendrickson
David Bradley
Orville Rogers
It is with sadness so great that I must inform you of the loss of Braniff International Captain Orville Curtis Rogers today, Thursday, November 14, 2019. Captain Rogers was 101 years old and what an amazing and full life he lived. You may remember, Orville was our 2017 recipient of the Braniff Airways Foundation Hall of Fame Award and we had the privilege of taking part in the filming of his amazing documentary last year called RUNNING MAN.
Orville, or Orv as he was known to his friends, had been ill for awhile with a heart problem, which required surgery that had curtailed his running. This had really struck his massive and strong will. I knew the last time I talked with him before the Conference that he was not as chipper as he normally was during our conversations.
A Celebration of Life ceremony will be held on Monday, Nov. 25 at the Historic Sanctuary of the First Baptist Church in Dallas, Texas. The ceremony is scheduled to begin at 11AM.
Lets all remember this great man. I remember him most for his magnificent ability to put personal differences aside and get to know all people for who they are. That is truly remarkable trait to be remembered for in anyone’s lifetime.
This clip was just released on Channel 8 News earlier this evening:
Thank you as always
Ben
Anne Beck
Harriet Dobbs
Esther Ellis
With sadness we notify you that Esther “Diddy” Ellis, who flew for Braniff from 1952-1955, died October 25. Services for Esther will be held on Monday, October 28, at 11:00 am at Our Redeemer Lutheran Church, 7611 Park Lane, Dallas, 75225, followed by a private interment at Sparkman Hillcrest and public reception at the church. Esther is survived by her husband Arthur Ellis, daughter Frances Ellis Fox, son Dr. Thomas Ellis, and five grandchildren.
Helen “Hoppy” Adair has known Esther since high school, and they both started flying for Braniff in 1952. Both Esther and Helen have been longtime Clipped B members, a bond that connects us all.
Condolences may be sent to:
Arthur Ellis, 3724 Wentwood, Dallas 75225.
We extend our sympathies to the Ellis family.
The Clipped B Board
Julia Campbell
Billie Morrow
Woody Wicker
Woody Wicker’s daughter, Brooke Alexander, reported that her Dad passed away this past Sunday from a heart attack. Per Woody’s wishes he will be cremated, but services have not been finalized.
Woody sent this autobiography in a few years ago:
As far as my start in aviation I learned to fly when a sophomore in H.S. by my Sunday school teacher who was an ex-airforce (WW2) instructor. I worked week ends for the crop dusting business my dad and partner owned building time moving cut back cub dusters from Pecos in west Texas to the Corpus Christi area in South Texas another one of our operations, I did this until old enough to get a private license and when I showed up in Midland, Texas and the C.A.A. looked at my log book with about 250 hrs he certainly took a long hard look at me, wondering what my problem was, until I explained the situation. I got my Commercial while a senior in H.S. and started crop dusting in the summer in the cut back J-3 cubs and moved up to our Stearmans with the 450 PW until 1960 however I few charters out of Pecos, Texas also around the Southwest – 1958 flew Ralph Yarborough over the state campaigning for governor of Texas. I was also Billy Sol Estes pilot off and on during this time – C-310 & D-50 Beechcraft. Graduated college spring 1960. 1961 was volunteered for a stint in Thailand until early 1962. Back in Pecos I resumed crop dusting and flying for Billy Sol Estes. 1966 I was hired by the Cessna company to work on the new Ag-Wagon crop sprayer they were developing and also did demonstration flights in all of the Cessna line of aircraft. During a trip to Dallas I went to the Braniff offices and American office at Love Field and applied for job, Braniff called me in July (Capt. Jim Peckam) and hired for the October 3, 1966 class. B-707 S/O, Dallas, B-707 S/O & Reserve F/O PAC MAC Travis AFB. BRANIFF years were fun – fun.
Patricia Wagoner
Debbie Stephens
Jerry Wolfe
Wally Nicholson reports that Jerry Wolfe died yesterday after a long illness. Services are pending.
Jerry was hired by Braniff in 1958 and came back to Braniff. He retired after the second bankruptcy. Jerry was 88 years old when he passed away and was living with his wife, Shirley, in Richardson, TX.
Stan Wied
Alphonso Rosborough
Al passed away Wednesday. He flew for Braniff 1974-1989. While at Braniff, he also worked In Flight Attendant training. After Braniff 2, Al went to NW airlines and was still at Delta at the time of his death.
Joanne Hallberg
Thoughts & Prayers
CAROL KAHN THOMAS’S HUSBAND JIM PASSED AWAY SEPTEMBER 9
Carol and Jim were married 49 years and have one son Jeffrey, daughter-in-law Laurel, and grandson Mason. Jim and Carol’s first blind date was to see Ray Charles, but their second date was to visit the Tower at Love Field. Jim’s love of Braniff and aviation was just as strong as Carol’s. Jim will be interred at the Preston Hollow Presbyterian Church columbarium (family service only), which has been Carol’s church since she was 12 years old. Her parents were founding members of PHPC.
Cards or notes sent to Carol would be greatly appreciated.
4569 Crosstimber Dr. Plano, TX 75093
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to T. Boone Pickens Faith Presbyterian Hospice or the charity of your choice.
We extend our sympathies to Carol and her family.
The Clipped B Board
Ethel Benedict
Dr. Della Perfetti
Henry Benson
Thoughts & Prayers
Our thoughts and prayers are with Barbara Walker who just lost her brother to cancer.
Paula Metcalf fell and fractured her hip and is in rehab until September 10th.
Barbara Pogue
Barbara Terrell Lyle
Carolyn Cotten
Smokey Vanover
Visitation will be Monday, August 19 from 6-9PM at First Colleyville Baptist Church, 5300 Colleyville Blvd. Colleyville, Texas
Services will be Tuesday, August 20 at 2PM at First Colleyville Baptist Church, Colleyville, Tx with a short graveside ceremony at Bluebonnet Hills Cemetery, 5725 Colleyvilleville Blvd, Colleyville immediately following the service ( about 3pm).
There will be a reception at Bluebonnet Hills Funeral Home following the graveside service.
His son is Chuck (wife Stacie) Vanover and Smokey’s wife is Jan Vanover.
Pamela Wirtz
Della Perfetti
Jean Collier
Karen Henyan
Mary Little
Rachel Mandell
President of the Clipped B’s Houston Chapter
Marie Fischer
James Geuea
George Gantous
Nancy Dewar
Patricia “Pat” Cobb
Patricia Songer Cobb passed away on May 23, 2019 after a long struggle with dementia. She was surrounded by loved ones and at peace at the time of death.
Pat was a true “Okie from Muskogee,” born on August 19, 1942, to parents Dorothy Lee Songer and Burrel LeRoy Songer. As a girl, she moved with her mother to Tulsa, where she attended Central High School. After graduation, Pat became one of the Pucci-clad flight attendants of the trendsetting Braniff Airlines. She was a part-time fashion model in Houston, where she fell in love with Candler “Candy” Cobb. The couple married in Las Vegas in 1971 and honeymooned in Acapulco. In Houston, Pat and Candy had a son, Russell Cobb, in 1974.
After Candy died in 1980, Pat went back to college, balancing motherhood, work, and school. She found a second career in 1991 as the manager of the bookstore for UCAT, now known as OSU-Tulsa. She also worked as a daycare teacher, retailer, and finally as a bookkeeper for All Souls Church, whose passion for inclusivity and justice she shared.
Pat fired on all cylinders: She loved gardening, dog-walking, house-sitting, and pursuing garage sales. She was a dedicated, compassionate, and loving mother, grandmother, and friend, always quick to lend a hand or share a laugh over a glass of chardonnay. She lived for Saturday morning brunches with her Breakfast Club and hanging out on her front porch with her friend, Sunny. She was a dedicated bargain-hunter but always managed to seem effortlessly elegant. She was also always up for any adventure, small or large, and threw herself into helping out like it was the most fun anyone had ever had.
Pat is survived by her son, Russ; daughter-in-law, Rachel Hertz Cobb; and grandsons, Henry and August Cobb, of Edmonton, Alberta, Canada. Services will be held at All Souls Unitarian Church on Thursday, May 30, at 4:00pm.
Memorial contributions can be sent to the Alzheimers Association.
Linda McGaha Smith
To all former Braniff Family members,
It is with a shattered heart and tears in my eyes I regretfully pass on to you the loss of one of our best and my closest friends, Linda MaGaha Milne Smith. Linda was born August 30, 1946 in Oak Grove, West Carroll Parrish, Louisiana. An angel to all that knew her, she left our physical world on May 13, 2019 after losing her battle with cancer in Clearwater, Florida. I went to see her in February, she told me this was one fight she couldn’t win. She was her same happy self, remembering all the great times, and accepting what was to come- peace. ” This is not good bye or farewell but we will see each other up the line-and we will! ”
Linda began her career at Braniff as a flight attendant in 1967. After a time she left and flew for American for the next few years. She came back to Braniff 2 as an Inflight Supervisor in Dallas and was instrumental in rebuilding the Flight Attendant Department and re-training our Flight Attendants.
In 1986 Linda married her soul mate, Dwight “Rick” Smith, and spent the next 33 years together building and operating numerous companies all based on the improvement of life for others. Their life together was full of love and family and each year she would tell me it was the best one yet! Always positive and ready for the next adventure.
Linda left our lives as she had entered them, full of joy, happiness, and with positive thoughts that each of us would live our lives to the fullest as she had hers.
A light dims and a star brightens as Linda leaves us, forever in our hearts, she will be missed. When you think of her, tell an old airline story and smile, she will!
Idy Jones
Orvis L’Roy
New Facebook Group
April 3, 2019 we started Braniff Clipped B’s Facebook group. In 24 hours we had 100 members and today 335. Braniff Clipped B’s is a closed group only for former Braniff Flight Attendants. Our group has 2 admin: Jean Jordan and Barbara Burnett . There are easy questions to answer to be added to group . We are having lots of fun, lots of pictures and memories that still bring a tear or two. Hope you will join us on Facebook soon. Thanks Jean Jordan
Norma Cousins
Rose King
William “Pappy” Boynton
Funeral Service Mon, 4/15/19, 2:30 pm DFW National Cemetery
Dick Strohmeier
Dick Strohmeier passed away this afternoon. Dick’s daughter, Dana Helton, was with her Dad when he passed. Even though Dick’s son and grandson were both enroute, they didn’t make it in time to say goodbye. Anticipated services are posted in the Comfort Care message below. Dick Strohmeier was 84 years old when he died.
…
Dick wrote the following just a few years ago:
I entered USAF Aviation Cadet School in January, 1956 through the ”Guard Pipeline”. I flew the T-34A, T-28A and T-33 during training, graduated in April, 1957, then returned to the SDANG 175 FIS. I flew F-94C, F-89D, H, J and the F-102. I transferred to the IAANG 174 TFG 1n 1962 and flew the F-100C until 1967.
I was hired by Braniff in June, 1966 and was with BI until March, 1982. During that time, I flew the Convair 340/440, L-188, BAC – 111, B-727 and B-707. I was hired by Piedmont in November, 1982 and was with Piedmont/USAir until 1993, flying the B737 and F-28.
After retirement the last day of 1993, I did what a lot of new retirees do, just wandered around trying to find myself. I tried showing my wife what she’d been doing wrong around the house all those years when I’d been gone on trips. She suggested I find some work outside the house, so I became the Executive Director of the Kernersville Chamber of Commerce from Aug, 1994 to May, 1997. Having no prior experience in that field, I reinvented the wheel every day. I came out of that position with a few good stories, no major damage, and went into full retirement.
In late 1998, I auditioned at a community theatre for A Christmas Carol and got a small part. Since then, I’ve attended some acting classes and workshops, done about 30 full-length plays with theatre groups throughout the Triad area, quite a few short plays, 8 short films, one full-length film and a few commercials. I’ve just been cast in Cheaper By The Dozen as the father, Mr. Gilbreth.
I’ve read about a small study that was done in a retirement community to determine what activities might contribute to preservation of brain function. Findings showed that, while some activities helped certain areas of the brain, acting provided the best overall benefit for the brain.
I’ve enjoyed acting a great deal. Community Theatre doesn’t provide any income, but I’ve made a lot of new friends and it keeps me off the streets.
As an aside, my wife died in 2003. I had planned to audition for a part in Inherit The Wind, which was scheduled for the day after she passed. I went to the audition with the idea of having something to do that would keep me both busy and surrounded with friends for a couple of months. I did get the part and being with a surrogate family provided a great deal of support during that early healing period.
Tina Dinkins
Tina Dinkins, daughter of Francine Giles House Dawe, former Braniff flight attendant and flight attendant supervisor, passed away on March 17, 2019, at age 61. Tina had suffered from chronic heart problems for several years prior to her death. A memorial service will be held on Saturday, March 30, 2019 at 11:00AM at Open Range Fellowship Church, 9950 Hwy 80, Greenwood, LA.
Cards may be sent to Francine at 10416 Plum Creek Dr, Shreveport LA 71106
Bill Pace
William (Bill) Pace passed away quietly & easily riding home from a dinner out with us, on February 8. Bill first moved to Murphy in 1968. After living in both Plano & Green Valley, AZ for a number of years , 10 years ago he came back to Murphy. He had been employed by TI & then Raytheon for 42 years. He was born in Lou Ann, Arkansas As a child, his family moved around but by Jr high the family had settled in Gladewater, TX. Graduating from Gladewater H.S. in 1957, it was on to Texas A&M; followed by 4 years in the Air Force. He went on to Texas A & M Commerce, to get his Masters Degree. He enjoyed cruising, & all kind of traveling,fine dining, & time with his family; He is survived by sons, Steven Pace & Melissa, John Rogers & Judy & Jeff Rogers $ Stacey; daughter Wendy Rogers &, Grandson Joshua Rogers & wife of 29 years Sherry Pace.. After over 2 years being ill from emergency surgery, the Lord invited him to come up to dance with the angels.
Celebration of life will be held at Niki’s Bistro on Saturday April 6. It will be a come & go type of event so as not to interfere with your weekend plans too much. Niki’s is located on the SE corner of FM 544 & Murphy Road (behind McDonalds)
Burial of ashes will be at the National Cemetery of Dallas on Monday at 1:00pm
Arrangements for overnight guests will be at La Quinta of Wylie about a mile &1/2 from our home.
Susan Moloughney
Sally Cole
Dr Ashby Harris
With sadness we notify you that Dr. Ashby Harris, Mary Ann Harris’ husband, died yesterday afternoon following a lengthy illness. Mary Ann and Ashby enjoyed a long and wonderful marriage. Together they have two daughters and six grandchildren. Mary Ann is spending time with her family and no further information is available at this time. We will share any details when they become available.
We send our sympathies to Mary Ann and her family.
Merlin Hauan
Merlin Reuben “Bear” Hauan was born October 7, 1937, in Seattle, Washington, into the loving Christian household of Reuben and Selma Hauan. Captain Hauan took flight on his final journey on February 25, 2019, in Dallas.
Merlin’s extraordinary trip through life exemplified commitment, adventure, perseverance and sacrifice. Everyone always mentioned his smile, his decorum, how he treated people…all the while maintaining a great sense of humor (“Hauan – like how-in the heck are ya?”)
His early years nurtured what would become a lifelong love of being on the water and in the outdoors, playing cowboys and Indians and sharing sports with his brother, Alan. Their uncle had fishing boats and Merlin later joined the Coast Guard. An expert snow-skier and PNSA-certified instructor and member of the Mt. Spokane ski patrol, once he skipped a test at Whitworth University to save a person on the mountain. He worked for the forest service as a firefighter, even managing a team of convicts in a chain gang. He was an avid motorcyclist, traveling stateside and riding through Europe with his dearest friend Dale, and when a motorcycle accident changed his life, he changed too…but never wavered.
Merlin’s great passion was flying. He was a distinguished Captain for Braniff Airlines. After Braniff’s demise, he flew overnight mail routes from Detroit to LA for Kalitta Air even as he lived in San Angelo, Texas. This required a commute from Mathis Field in San Angelo to DFW to Detroit — a whole day just to get to work — and after completing his mail route, a whole day to get back home. He also spent a year piloting cargo flights around Africa, based in Kenya…a difficult job that would take him from Denison, Texas, to Greenland, and to Egypt before arriving in Nairobi. Later in his career he flew for Ultrair out of Houston to New York – again having to commute just to start his flights. Before ultimately retiring from commercial aviation, he flew freight for Ameristar out of Addison Airport near Dallas. These sacrifices of time away from family were for his family, and that is the best part of Merlin’s story.
The real adventure began when he met Tissie Enochs through her friend, Sherry, at Braniff. She invited him home to a reunion at her family’s ranch in Eldorado, Texas…and thus began a courtship, friendship, and lifelong love that overcame adversity, celebrated joys and created a shining example of devotion.
They enjoyed travel, snow-skiing with the Braniff Ski Club and time in Eldorado. They married in 1971 on a date strategically timed around the opening of dove season, which allowed Merlin and Tissie’s dad Pat to build on a fond relationship that would continue to the end of Pat’s life. They welcomed daughters Kristin and Julie. Merlin was devoted to all “his girls.” And together they built a life they loved.
Merlin was a big man with a giant heart and everlasting faith. He is survived by his wife Tissie Hauan, daughters Kristin (Michael) Jolly and Julie (Jason) Sickles, grandchildren Peyton and Patrick Jolly, brother Alan (Yvonne) Hauan, nieces and nephews, and many friends in Alaska, Washington state, Texas and beyond.
Note: There will be a private service later for the family.
Donna Stringer
Nita Rowan
Barbara Loux
Leslie Graf
Thomas Steele
Rex Winters
Shirley Bunn
Kristan McCully
Kenneth Holder
Vikki Anderson-Maultsby
Victoria Elizabeth Anderson (McMann), passed away on Jan. 4 at the age of 73, surrounded by loving family and with her favorite song “Leaving on a Jet Plane” playing in the background. A beloved wife and mother, cherished friend, and great lover of many furry friends over the years, Vikki brought caring, dignity and elegance with her wherever she went. And she went all over the world, first as a flight attendant for 20 years at Braniff Airlines and later on in her career in accident investigation for the FAA in Washington, D.C. Her tireless work over the years, along with many others’, helped to make the skies safer for all of us. Vikki is survived by her husband George Maultsby, daughters Nichole & Jenny, sons Scott & George III, and “her favorite child,” Sunny, a certified therapy dog, along with her grandchildren Andrew, Stephanie, Audrey and Charlotte, family, and countless friends and colleagues. Memorial services will be held in Hurst, TX, at United Methodist Church on Jan. 26th, and in St. Augustine, FL on Feb. 9th at Craig Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers, donation may be made to FOHA, www.foha.org.
For anyone planning to attend Vikki’s service in Hurst this Saturday please RSVP to lbsewflyn@yahoo.com
Patricia Warner
Dave Cody
Jodie Cody’s husband, Dave, passed away the morning of December 18 in a Mesquite, TX, rehabilitation hospital near his home after a 10 year battle with cancer, which started with a melanoma. No services. Dave requested his ashes be spread on the Muskogee River in Michigan where he spent time fishing with Jodie and friends. Jodie, Marisa (his daughter) and granddaughter will meet by the river in April to say a final goodbye.
Jodie’s address is 9505 Baskerville, Rockwall, TX 75087.
Dave Cody served his country in the Army 1958-1960. He was hired by Braniff in 1964. He came back to Braniff 2 and Braniff 3. Along the way, Dave also flew for ONA, Buffalo Airways, the US Postal Service, Hawaii Express, Kitty Hawk, Polar Air Cargo, Connie Kalitta, Bahamasair and Ameristar and 5 others. In fact Dave is the Braniff record holder for having flown for the most airlines – 17 including all three versions of Braniff. Dave’s wife, Jodie, was the widow of Braniff pilot, Lee Pitcher. Dave was living in Rockwall, TX and was 81 years old when he passed away.
Peggy Nadolski
Donna Uhler Stringer
Camille Cheryl Turner
Barbara Martell
Mary Chappell
Dirk Tollenaar
Lynda Anderson
From Barbara Shumaker:
Received sad news today my dear friend and Braniff flying buddy Lynda Anderson passed away from cancer. She was such a kind sole, adoring mother and animal lover. I’m sure God wrapped you in his loving arms when you got to heaven and I can see you smiling. You will be missed my friend but I’m sure I’ll see you again one day.
Brandi McMinn
I would not normally do this but this is an exception for an old and valued friend. Cindy McMinn, who was in my original Braniff International class in 1974 , is the mother-in-law to Brandi who is married to her son. Brandi is starting her third trimester when she had a series of seizures. Doctor have determined that she has a serious brain tumor and surgery puts their baby at great risk. They do have medical insurance but it has a high deductible. Any assistance you can give will earn you my thanks and the affection of Cindy and her family. My Braniff friends will remember her as Cindy Kebabjian and she was a DFW-based flight attendant and supervisor and a beautiful and wicked funny friend. So I cast out the net to my Braniff family to help one of our own. Gofundme.com and #allinformcminn
Shirley Hess
Ruth Moore-Wilson
Aline Liles Spotts
Dan Clark
Dan Clark passed away Wednesday, 10/11. Services at Lucas Funeral Home 1100 10/20/18.
Dan Clark began his professional life in the Marine Corps. He was hired by Braniff in 1967. Post Braniff found Dan at Piedmont Airlines and USAir after the merger. Dan retired in 1995 and was living in Bedford, TX with his wife, Trudy. He was 83 years old when he passed away.
Earl Hudman
Earl Hudman, husband of Clipped B member Ruthie Hudman (58-64), died on October 1 after a brief illness. A memorial service will be held on Wednesday, October 10 at 2:00 p.m.
Park Cities Baptist Church, Ellis Chapel, 3933 Northwest Pkwy, Dallas, TX 75225.
Ruthie Hudman
9133 Villa Park Cr.
Dallas, TX 75225
Bob Gunn
UPDATE: Bob Gunn passed away at 2:02 this afternoon Oct 11, 2018.
UPDATE: His condition is rapidly deteriorating and that he has been moved to:
Faith Presbyterian Hospice
T Boone Pickens Facility
12477 Merit Drive
Dallas, TX 75251
Cards are appreciated. Prayers are requested
ORIGINAL: We just received word from Shirley Gunn that Bob has had a stroke and he has been moved to the Faith Presbyterian Hospice in Plano. She has requested that cards and letter be sent to him at their home address:
Bob Gunn
1609 Old Course Drive
Plano, TX 75093
Jeanne Knapp
A friend, Jeanne Knapp, who flew for Braniff in the 1960’s out of MSP, past away Sunday, September 9th. If you knew her, and would like to send a card to her daughter, I’m sure she would appreciate it.
Kimberly Boyce, 8435 NE 137th St., Kirkland, WA 98034-1719.
Jeanne is the dark haired lady in the front. This photo was taken in 2013 at a Braniff reunion in Minneapolis.
Lewis Wilson
Pete Krause
Betty Hazlett
George Purcell
Husband of Donna Bennett Purcell
Roberta Brown
Christine DiPalma
Carol MacNamara
Willard Baker
Husband of Clipped B Martha Baker
Jacqueline Vetter
Barbara Jackson
Sharon Mallory
Linda Masopust
Linda Masopust 77, passed away in her sleep, at her home in Layton Utah. May 20. She was the daughter of Jim and Blanch Masopust, born March 9th 1941 in Okla. City, Okla. She is survived by her sister, Carol VanHorn of Okla. City and her brother, Paul Masopust of Layton Utah. She attended Okla. University but her passion to fly and travel, led her to become a flight attendant for Braniff Airlines for 22 years. She later worked as a librarian at the Vacaville Ca. library where she retired in 2006. She loved all animals and lived a full life. She will be truly missed by family and friends.
Dianne Laffoon
It is with great sadness this Monday morning we found out Dianne Laffoon passed away June 5. She was at the Braniff Fly in May 28. I have no more details.We have now learned that Dianne died in her sleep. Our thoughts and prayers for family and Friends. Dianne flew for Braniff 1969-1989. Her current address in the yearbook is Lexington KY. Dianne was still currently with AA and was on medical leave from a fall on crew staircase for bunk beds. Her friends in KY are working on Obit for Dianne. I will send out when I receive. I have called the flight Museum and asked if they could let us have space for celebration of life. I haven’t heard back from the CEO.
Jean Jordan
Virginia White Bowie Skelton
Virginia was born on July 25, 1924 and passed away on Thursday, May 17, 2018. Virginia was a resident of Dallas, Texas at the time of passing. Funeral service to celebrate Virginia’s life will be held on Tuesday, May 22, 2018, at 1:00 PM in The whispering waters garden at Restland Memorial Park.
Marion Griffith
Marion Sherman Griffith Jr., age 87, passed away on June 2, 2018, in Sun City, Texas. Marion Griffith is survived by his son, Marion Sherman Griffith III, Sherman’s wife Dawn, and their children Justin Griffith and Ben Griffith of Southlake, Texas; and his daughter, Sheryl Griffith Shewell, and her son Corey Shewell of Bastrop, Texas. He is preceded in death by his wife of 51 years, Mary Lynn Griffith, of Dallas, Texas.
Marion was born on October 19, 1930 in Austin, Texas to Sherman and Myrtle Griffith. He graduated from The University of Texas with a Masters in Music. After graduation, he served in the Air Force flying C-124 transport aircraft in the Alaskan and Pacific theaters. After the Air Force he was hired at Braniff Airlines. He spent most of his time at Braniff in management and was the Director of Flight Standard when he was asked to manage the Concorde program. He was the first US airline pilot to be type rated in Concorde. After Braniff, Marion worked as the President of the US subsidiary of Rediffusion, a British flight simulator manufacturer.
He was devoted to his hobby of Soaring and aviation, serving as the President of The Soaring Society of America, was the principal organizer of the first SSA Convention, was a founder of the Dallas Gliding Association which started and funded the Johnson Flight Tests, was a director of Southwest Soaring (a commercial Texas soaring center), state and national open class record holder, and regional and national open class competitor.
Marion, our Dad, will be missed by many who loved him, enjoyed his stories, admired his achievements, and listened to his council.
There will be no formal memorial service per his wishes. Sherman and Sheryl will hold a service in the sky for him.
Mary Kottke
Mary Kottke passed away in Saint Petersburg, Florida. The obituary was featured in Monadnock Ledger-Transcript on June 6, 2018.
Howard Caldwell
Howard Dwight Caldwell, age 103, passed away peacefully at home on May 17, 2018.
He was born February 24, 1915 in Ponce, Puerto Rico to missionary parents, Irwin and Lena Caldwell. He graduated from York College, Nebraska and joined the Marine Air Corps. Howard then was a commercial airline pilot for 34 years until his retirement in 1975, flying first for Pan American Grace Airways (Panagra) and later Braniff Airways.
In the early years of flying for Panagra he and his wife, Gladys, lived in South America and then moved to Miami in 1948. They later moved to Ocala in 1975 after he retired. Howard was a charter member of Grace Presbyterian church in Ocala, FL and a volunteer for Meals-on-Wheels in Marion County until he was 96. He also enjoyed continuing to fly his private plane, playing tennis, and riding his bicycle.
Gladys, his wife of 72 years, predeceased him in 2013. Howard is survived by his children, Barbara Fletcher of Asheville, NC; Richard Caldwell and wife Susan of West Union, SC; and Pat Caldwell of Ocala, FL; as well as grandchildren Catherine, Sarah, Karen, Christopher, Riley, and James; and twelve great-grandchildren.
A memorial Service will be held on June 12th at 11 AM at Grace Presbyterian Church. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be given to Marion Senior Services (designated for Meals-On-Wheels) or Grace Presbyterian Church.
Kathryn Ayers
Daughter of Captain Al Ayers.
Koerner Rombauer
Brenda Nitsch
Brenda Nitsch, age 78 of Seguin, passed away on April 29, 2018. A Memorial Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Saturday, May 5, 2018 at 1030 a.m. at St. James Catholic Church with Rev. Msgr. Dennis Darilek officiating. Private interment will be held later at San Geronimo Cemetery.
Nancy Zastrow Shaw
Nancy Zastrow Shaw, Braniff Flight Attendant, 1958-1960, died today, April 24, 2018. Funeral service is scheduled for Saturday, April 28,2018 at 1:00PM at Rhoton Funeral Home 1511 South Interstate 35, Carrollton, Texas 75006.
Nancy Shaw was married to Robert Shaw, another Braniff employee who worked in the Sales Department.
Cards may be sent to:
Nancy Shaw Family
3465 Janlyn
Dallas Texas 75334
Teddi Weil
Barbi Bittel Brown
Kitty Burge Wilson
It is with sadness we notify you that Kitty Burge Wilson, the last remaining of the four ladies who started the Clipped B’s in 1947, died on Easter Sunday. Her service will be held this Thursday, April 5 at 10:30 a.m. at Presbyterian Village North, where Kitty has been a longtime resident.
The Chapel at Presbyterian Village North
8600 Skyline Drive
Dallas, TX 75243
Directions:
From Central Expressway, go east on Forest Lane. Across from TI, turn right on Landa Lane. Pass through the gate into Presbyterian Village North, and the chapel will be in front of you slightly to the right on Skyline Drive. Ample parking around the chapel.
Harriett Francis Tweedy
Harriet Francis died on March 1. Services are planned for March 24 2018 at 11:00am at Rhoton Funeral Home on I-35 in Carrollton, TX. Harriett’s address was 11844 High Valley Dr. Dallas ,TX 75234.
Rita Sanderson
Karen Titus Pope
Karen Titus Pope, Braniff Flight Attendant 1968-1982 has asked for prayers for her husband, Dale, who is in the final stages of bone cancer. Karen also just recently lost her mother. Please keep Karen and her family in your thoughts and prayers.
Evelynn Eubanks
NEWS & UPDATES
- 2019 Christmas Party
- 2019 Salad Toss
- Linda Shepard LewisOBIT LINK It is with great sadness to notify you that Linda Shepard Lewis, who flew from 1966-1982, died on
- Elina Hoff-DittmarOBIT LINK
- Carolynn PotterOBIT LINK
- Jane AndersonOBIT LINK
- Captain Wayne SchrunkOn Friday, December 22, 2017 at 4:30am Wayne Schrunk passed away from complications from a stroke. While growing up in
- Bob MullinsJohnny Jackson received word that Bob Mullins Braniff Line Service Mechanic at DFW passed away on Wednesday, December 20, 2017.
- Paula Sue SniderOBIT
- Patti ElliottHusband, Terry Elliott, and Braniff friends gathered at Terry Daniels home on November 11, 2017, to remember and celebrate the
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