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Our Staff
Our Caring Staff
Your Neighbors...
Selecting a funeral home is a personal decision, so we want you to know who we are. With sincere gratitude we thank you and all our families for entrusting your loved ones’ final care to us. It is an honor to serve our families and community.
Funeral Directors & Cremation Specialists...
Our Funeral Directors and Cremation Specialists have a wealth of expertise and experience, in which most of us have been serving families for decades. We all believe in honoring and celebrating the life lived.
Nicole Dennis Simpkins
Our Managing Funeral Director and Cremation Specialist since April of 2024, has been serving families in need since 1994. She was a 1995-96 graduate of Dallas Institute of Funeral Services and has been a licensed Funeral Director and Embalmer since 1997. Nicole was a 1993 graduate of Cleburne High School and received her bachelor’s degree from Columbia College in 2018 with a focus in Human Services Management.
Nicole has served communities throughout Texas and Arkansas. Her belief in service has enhanced her ability to serve families in various roles including managing several funeral homes and cemeteries, including Laurel Land Funeral Home & Cemetery of Fort Worth & Burleson, Emerald Hills Funeral Home & Memorial Park of Kennedale, and Johnson’s Funeral Home of San Angelo, as well as Griffin Leggett Funeral Home & Memorial Park in Arkansas. She served as a CASA volunteer for over 7 years in both Johnson and Tom Green counties, as well as in several civic organizations, such as Zonta of Johnson County, and the American Business Women Association, Celebrity Chapter of Fort Worth where she was honored as Business Woman of the Year. Through her travels she has met countless people and learned from each area she has been blessed to serve in. Nicole is happy to be back home in Cleburne once again serving those closest to her heart since 2018.
Nicole is the mother of five exceptional children, Sarah, Raymond, Reece, Matthew and Katie, who bring her an abundance of joy. In 2017 she married Ret., USAF Mst. Sgt., William Simpkins. They spend every opportunity they can racing his 1974 Nova across Texas or cheering on their grandchildren. Nicole is a crafter of all kinds and always has several projects in the works. The family are all avid animal lovers and members of The Heights Baptist Church in San Angelo. Bill and Nicole look forward to moving completely back to Johnson County once their youngest graduates high school...until then they spend their time in both places.
Eric is a native of the West Texas and Southwest New Mexico area. He graduated Jal High School in Jal, NM in 1983. Eric is a 1989 graduate of Dallas Institute of Funeral Service and has been a licensed Funeral Director and Embalmer in Texas since 1990. During his 30 year career, he has served families in the Dallas Fort Worth area, the Texas Panhandle area and throughout the West Texas area where he also served as a Managing Funeral Director. He served on the West Texas Funeral Director Association Board from 2003-2008 and was President of the WTFDA for the 2007-2008 term. Eric also served on the Texas Funeral Directors Association that same term. In 2017, Eric joined our team at Crosier-Pearson Cleburne Funeral Home where his experience and
knowledge has been a valued addition ever since.
Eric and his wife, Patti, who also serves families at Crosier-Pearson Cleburne Funeral Home, enjoy spending time with their children and grandchildren. Eric is an avid fly fisherman. He looks forward to his time fly fishing with childhood friends each year on their trip to Rockbridge, Missouri. In any
spare time he gets, he can be found golfing or watching ESPN.
Eric has been a funeral director and creamation specialist for over 30 years, joining the Crosier- Pearson Cleburne Funeral Home in 2017. He was a 1989 graduated of Dallas Institute of Funeral Services and has been a licensed Funeral Director Embalmer since 1990. He has served families in the Texas Panhandle, West Texas and DFW area in his 30 year career. Eric served on the West Texas Funeral Director Association Board from 2003-2008, serving as president from 2007-2008 and serving on the state board of Texas Funeral Directors Association from 2007-2008.
Eric is a native of West Texas and Southwest New Mexico area. He is a 1983 graduate of Jal High School in Jal, New Mexico. Eric and his wife Patti live in Fort Worth and enjoy spending time with their children and grandchildren. Eric is an avid fly fisher, enjoying fishing trips to Rockbridge, Missouri. If Eric has any spare time it is spent playing golf and watching ESPN.
Previously from the Dallas area, our youngest full time Funeral Director &Cremation Specialist, Amanda Caton got to Johnson County as soon as she could!
A graduate of Keller Central High School in 2014, Amanda made the decision to pursue higher education in Funeral Service and Mortuary Sciences after the passing of both her parents in 2018 and 2019 respectively. After graduating from the Dallas Institute of Funeral Service in 2021 with an Associates of Applied Sciences in Mortuary Science, Amanda found her home at Crosier-Pearson Cleburne in the fall of 2022, where she accepted a position to complete her apprenticeship. Shortly after, in May of 2023,
Amanda received her full licensure. She is the daughter of two U.S. Air Force Veterans and a mother to her beautiful son, Ezra.
Amanda brings a refreshing outlook and several years of experience in with working in multiple capacities within the funeral home setting, as well as a renewing sense of compassion and care for the families she serves. She has a special interest in cosmetic application and restorative embalming.
In her spare time, Amanda enjoys her various hobbies such as spending time in nature, reading, attending music festivals, different forms of crafting and refurbishment projects, as well as going on long walks with her beloved dog, Georgia Mae.
Life-long resident of Fort Worth, Andra Barajas, joined the Crosier-Pearson
Cleburne Funeral Home team in June of 2024. She graduated from the Dallas
Institute of Funeral Service in 2017 with an Associates degree in Funeral Service
and then earned her licensure as a Funeral Director and Embalmer in 2018. Andra
began working in the funeral industry in 2008, and has been blessed to serve
families in various roles, making her not only compassionate but also well-versed
in her ability to take care of their needs. We are excited to have Andra at Crosier-
Pearson Cleburne Funeral Home!
Andra is the mother of 4 sons and wife to her husband, George, who all keep her
on her toes. She spends countless hours fostering and finding homes for rescue
dogs and cats. Her family gatherings are some of her favorite activities and
memories alike.
Dayna Shepard, long time resident of Granbury, joined our Crosier-Pearson Cleburne Funeral Home team at the end of August 2024. She is a 2021 graduate of Granbury High School and 2024 graduate of
the Dallas Institute of Funeral Services. Over the upcoming year, Dayna will complete her Provisional Funeral Director and Embalmer licensure requirements with our group of vastly experienced and knowledgeable Funeral Director, Embalmer and Cremation Specialists. Dayna is a “military brat”, having grown up on US Air Force bases throughout Texas, Oklahoma, California, Washington and Tennessee while her father served with honor. She brings with her a sense of dedication, willingness to serve others and desire to always put her best foot forward, with a smile. We are blessed to have her on our team and cannot wait to see what her future looks like.
Dayna married her high school sweetheart, Cory in October of 2023. They are renovating their new home together and loving it. She tries to spend as much time in the kitchen with Cory teaching her to cook or with their three dogs and two cats.
Eddy Carrell, lifelong resident of Cleburne has been a vital part of the Crosier-Pearson Cleburne Funeral Home team since May of 2012. He is a 1979 graduate of Cleburne High School and 2013 graduate of the Dallas Institute of Funeral Service. Eddy worked with Marti Electronics as an electric technician for many years before entering the funeral industry. His skillset for IT needs, audio and visual systems and production in general are top-knotch.
Eddy has been serving as the Worship Leader of Calvary Baptist Church (Cleburne) since 1997 as well as teaching Sunday school classes and participating in various ministry roles ranging from children to adult and elderly groups. Eddy has been a member of several gospel quartets throughout his life as well.
Eddy not only serves as a Funeral Director, Embalmer and Cremation Specialist but also as Chaplain and Vocalist to many families throughout Johnson County. The messages he delivers at services are detailed and personalized to celebrate the life lived in the most meaningful way possible. His love of people, community and his faith all shine brightly in all he gives to so many!
Eddy married his high school sweetheart, Pam Ross Carrell, on May 5, 1983. They are the proud parents of two children and adoring grandparents of two as well. “PaPa” is Eddy’s favorite title of all! In the limited time that he does not have committed to his family, church or funeral home, Eddy enjoys tinkering with a variety of projects and traveling at every opportunity he can with Pam.
Cleburne as a whole and Crosier-Pearson Cleburne Funeral Home are truly blessed to have Eddy’s influence and talents amongst their ranks!
Hayden Massey was born and raised in Granbury, Texas. Inspired by his grandfather's funeral home,
Hayden developed a passion for serving others. Soon after graduating from Granbury High School, he enrolled in the Dallas Institute of Funeral Service. While attending mortuary school, Hayden worked at the funeral home in Granbury as a funeral assistant until graduating in 2018. He worked as a licensed
funeral director and embalmer in Granbury and the Fort Worth area, until coming to Crosier-Pearson Cleburne Funeral Home in 2023.
We are blessed to have Hayden on our team of esteemed Funeral Directors, Embalmers and Cremation Specialists. His attention to detail, desire to serve others and un-matched level of perfection and dedication - all make him a valued part of our team. Hayden also brings a fun-loving and positive attitude and approach to all he does. His smile and old- soul spirit makes all those around him remember him fondly.
In his free time, Hayden enjoys spending time with his family, flying airplanes, and training the next generation of pilots. He currently also works for American Airlines.
Steve Davidson has lived most of his life within the Johnson County area and graduated from Burleson High School in 1964. Steve married the love of his life, Talana Wiginton in 1966. He was a Medivac in the
United States Army during the Vietnam Era. Steve received his Combat Medic training in Mississippi. He graduated from the Dallas Institute of Funeral Services in 1974 and began working for Crosier-Pearson Mayfield that same year, until 1999 when he left to work at Ben Brown Funeral Home in Irving. Steve
came back to work at Cleburne Funeral Home, which is now Crosier-Pearson Cleburne Funeral Home in 2001 and continues to be a vital part of the team today. His smile, willingness to help others and dedication to the funeral home and families is un-matched.
Steve and Talana are both members of St. John Vianney Catholic Church in Cleburne. Steve is a member of the Knights of Columbus and the Veterans of Foreign War (VFW) as well. They have two children, three
grandchildren, and 1 great-great granddaughter. Steve enjoys spending time outdoors – fishing, hunting and watching the hummingbirds.
Jan Ford a native Cleburne-ite and 1970 graduate of Cleburne High School, has been a Crosier-Pearson Cleburne Funeral Home team member since 2020. She is a 1977 graduate of the Dallas Institute of Funeral Service. Jan earned her Funeral Director license in 1978 and then her Embalmer license in 1979.
Her years of experience and wisdom has only made our team stronger and we are proud to have Jan with us at Crosier-Pearson Cleburne Funeral Home! Her vibrant laughter, big heart and willingness to serve families are what makes her shine brightest.
Jan comes home to Cleburne as often as she can, but has spent most of her life in Fort Worth. She is a member of Aqua Areobics and enjoys listening to live music with her friends as often as possible. Jan spends every moment she can with her daughter, Janna; her two grandchildren, Malayna and R.J.; her
four great-grandchildren, Leighton, Lynleigh, Lawson and Bridger; and her beloved dog, Hazel.
During the Service
You will find our Funeral Assistants: Robbie Knight, Saundra Campbell, Dru Summey, Ron Gravitt, Del Cavazos, Emil Beckman, Todd Neal, Pervis Bailey (not pictured), Joshua Stephenson (not pictured) and Matt Sisk (not pictured) helping provide the best comfort and service for each family we serve. All have deep ties to the Johnson Country area and are active in their community.
Robbie Knight, long-time resident of Burleson, has been working with Crosier-Pearson Cleburne Funeral Home since 2015 as a Funeral Service Attendant. His desire to serve those in need is evident in all he does, through dedication and excellence. Robbie has a welcoming smile and warm nature that puts those around him at ease.
Robbie is the proud husband to Barbara Knight. They have been married since 1957 and have one son, Gary. Since 1985, they have been members of the First Baptist Church in Burleson. He graduated from Pascal High School in Fort Worth in 1957 and went on to attend Tarrant County Junior College for two years after. In his spare time, Robbie enjoys playing golf.
Robbie began working in the funeral industry in 2006, driving coaches and limos for local
funeral homes. Prior to driving, he managed the diesel repair shop for over 20 years and then the auto sales with Forrest Auto Park in Cleburne – where he retired in 2006.
We are blessed to have him working on our team at Crosier-Pearson Cleburne Funeral Home.
Saundra Douglas Campbell, lifelong resident of Cleburne has been serving families at Crosier-Pearson Cleburne Funeral Home since 2021. Her love of people, abundance of creativity, servant’s heart and willingness to always go above and beyond have made her the perfect fit to our team. Saundra embraces her role as a Funeral Service Assistant, working funerals and celebrations that truly honor the life lived being her focus. She is quick to let you know how much she loves the families and funeral home!
Saundra is a 1974 graduate of Cleburne High School and 1976 graduate of Johnson County’s School of Vocational Nursing. In 2000, she established her business, Unique Scrubs N More, that is still in business
today. If you know Saundra – you know she can make, order or find you anything you need from scrubs to shoes – to children’s clothing and accessories to quilts and toys. There is no limit to her drive or creativity!
Saundra is all about her family. She is the proud wife of Mike Campbell, mother of two and “Nauni” to four grandsons. She is a dedicated daughter as well.
Saundra exudes faith in her Lord in all that she does and leaves an everlasting mark on all who are blessed to have their path cross hers. We are blessed to have her serving families with us!
Dru Summey, long-time resident of Cleburne, joined the Crosier-Pearson Cleburne Funeral
Home team in 2022 as a Funeral Service Attendant after retiring with over 30 years in law enforcement as a Lieutenant with the Cleburne Police Department. He currently has gone back into law enforcement as the School Safety Officer with CISD at Irving Elementary School, where he continues to impact those around him. Dru is a man of great character and stands apart from the rest. His dedication to community, family, friends and always doing the right thing is
evident in all that he does. His giving nature and compassionate spirit makes it easy to love Dru – no matter your age. We are blessed to have him working on our team at Crosier-Pearson Cleburne Funeral Home.
Dru is the proud husband to Kelly – since 2005. He is a 1984 graduate of Cleburne High School and grew up in Godley. He received his Bachelor's degree in Criminal Justice from Texas A&M–Commerce. Dru and Kelly can be found antiquing or traveling together at every opportunity that comes their way.
Ron Gravitt, long-time resident of Cleburne, joined the Crosier-Pearson Cleburne Funeral Home team in 2022 as a Funeral Service Attendant. He was born in Whitney, Texas. He graduated from Santiago High School in Grove, California in 1968 and attended Junior College in Bend, Oregon. Ron has been married since 2000 and is a proud father and grandfather. He has worked as a truckdriver for many years. Ron is a man of faith and a member of the United Presbyterian Church in Cleburne. He served in the United States Army during the Vietnam Era.
We are blessed to have him on the Crosier-Pearson Cleburne Funeral Home team!
Ron is a man with a calming spirit, who can speak on any number of subjects with ease. He has a servant’s heart and goes above and beyond to serve families and friends attending services with us. His dedication and desire to serve with excellence is evident in all he does.
Emil Beckman, long-time resident of Cleburne, returned to the Crosier-Pearson Cleburne Funeral Home team in 2024 as a Funeral Service Attendant. Over the years, and changes in his career, Emil has moved 15 times from Texas to Illinois to California and then finally back to his home state of Texas. Emil worked as K-Mart Corporation over 30 years in Management, Lincoln-Mercury Automotive over 13 years in Sales and Management, Wal-Mart Corporation
over 13 years in Stock Replenishment and Optics before entering the funeral industry where he has worked in Pre-Need Sales, Receptionist and Funeral Service Attendant roles. Emil has been quoted as stating, “I enjoy people and serving their needs. In the funeral business, a caring heart, a generous smile, demonstrated concern and compassion can be a great gift and benefit to those who have lost a loved one.” Emil encompasses all these traits and more. We are blessed to have him working on our team at Crosier-Pearson Cleburne Funeral Home.
Emil was married from 1966-1995 and is a proud father and grandfather today. He is a 1962 graduate of Georgetown High School – Georgetown, Texas and attended Trinity College in Chicago and Deerfield, Illinois. Emil is a current member of the NRA and USCCA, and past member of the Lion’s Club, Chamber of Commerce, Awana, and Indian Guides. He has been a member of several faiths and churches including: Evangelical Free Church, Baptist Church, Non-Denominational Bible Church, and currently is a member of the Gospel Light Church in
Haltom City. In his spare time, he enjoys gardening, lawn work, fishing, hunting, and horse-back riding.
Todd Neal, longtime resident of Granbury, joined the Crosier-Pearson Cleburne Funeral Home team as a Funeral Service Assistant in 2024. He is a 2018 graduate of the Dallas Institute of Funeral Services and
1982 graduate of Crowley High School. Todd is a Provisional Funeral Director licensee in the state of Texas currently. He grew up in Fort Worth and enjoyed learning all he could about the city. His hobbies include building model cars and reading. Todd has been married since 1994 and is a member of The Hills
Church.
Todd is dedicated to serving families with excellence. He is a team-player and is willing to go above and beyond for those we serve. We are blessed to have him working on our team at Crosier-Pearson Cleburne Funeral Home.
Pervis “Bailey” Bailey, lifelong-time resident of Cleburne, joined the Crosier-Pearson Cleburne Funeral Home team in 2022 as a Funeral Service Attendant. Bailey is a 1992 graduate of Cleburne High School and has been married since 1996. He is the proud father of three kids, who are truly the light of his life. Family is the most important aspect of Bailey’s world. He is often the instigator for family and friend cook-outs or get togethers. Bailey has an energy that makes others relax and take a deep breath. His smile and laughter is contagious. To know him- is to love him. His love of life and servant’s heart makes him able to serve families in their darkest time through his compassion. We are blessed to have him on the Crosier-Pearson Cleburne Funeral Home team!
Bailey has worked a number of years with Wal-Mart Distribution Center and although holds no current church membership – has a strong faith in God. He spends every minute he can with his wife, whom he affectionately calls his “Wogie” and family and friends whether it be fishing, cooking out, camping, vacationing or hosting get togethers.
Joshua Stephenson, long-time resident of Cleburne, joined the Crosier-Pearson Cleburne Funeral Home team in 2024 as a Funeral Service Attendant. He is a 1994 graduate of Cleburne High School and went on to attend the Dallas Institute of Funeral Services, the Art Institute of Dallas, Tarrant County Community College and Hill Junior College. As you can tell – Joshua believes in life-learning. He grew up in the Eastern Heights Church, now known as The Heights
in Cleburne and has been married since 2022.
Joshua works as a Maintenance Manager full-time but enjoys sculpting, mask making projects, exercising and playing the drums as often as time allows.
Joshua has a servant’s heart and quiet spirit that puts those around him at ease. We are blessed to have him working on our team at Crosier-Pearson Cleburne Funeral Home.
During Visitations
Our hometown evening attendants, Vicki Collins, Lisa Schick, Cheri McCullough, Jolene Foster, Lynda Schawo, Ellen Colbert and Emil Beckman all are her to greet evening guests and serve families during their visitations, evening services and events in the countless ways they may be needed.
Vicki Fuller Collins, one of Crosier-Pearson Cleburne Funeral Home’s Administrative Team Members has been with the funeral home since 2019 in various roles throughout the years. Her inviting smile, warm hearted and welcoming nature, as well as her dedication to service and families is un-matched. Vicki believes in doing everything to the best of your ability and holds herself to that standard, especially when helping
families. We are blessed to have her on our team!
Vicki was born and raised in Cleburne, graduating Cleburne High School in 1988. She is a long-time member of First Mount Zion Missionary Baptist Church and the King’s Daughters, Hearts of Gold. She attended
Sam Houston State College and works as an Executive Concierge with PwC in Dallas as well.
Vicki is a gifted balloon artist, party planner and crafter. She enjoys spending time with her two daughters, her grandson, and other family and friends every opportunity she has. However, nothing gives her more joy than being a Glamma!
Lisa Schick, long-time resident of Cleburne, has been serving families at Crosier-Pearson Cleburne Funeral Home since 2018 as an Evening Attendant. Her willingness to go above and beyond for families is un-touchable. Lisa is dedicated to always striving to ease the loss of those we serve. We count
ourselves as blessed to have her on our team!
Lisa is a 1981 graduate of Rio Vista High School. She has been a vital member of Bennett’s Office Supply in Cleburne since 1984 and can still be found there today! She enjoys spending time visiting casinos and
attending Rangers games as often as possible. She is the proud mom of two Chihuahuas, Mila and Shaye.
Cheri Fuller McCullough, lifelong resident of Cleburne has been serving families at Crosier-Pearson Cleburne Funeral Home since 2018 as an Evening Attendant as well as a Funeral Service Assistant. Her giving spirit and bright smile puts those around her at ease. Cheri believes in giving back to the
community and serving families in need. Her dedication to both are evident in the many roles she plays.
We are blessed to have her on our team!
Cheri has been on the staff of Cleburne ISD since 2001, where she is vital to the administration of our schools. She is a 1988 graduate of Cleburne High School and is a fan of all CHS, especially sports. You can
see her at the front gate, taking tickets at most CHS Friday night football games or keeping score at basketball games.
Cheri is a member of Emmanuel Temple Outreach Ministries, King’s Daughters – Hearts of Gold Circle, and a board member of the East Cleburne Community Center (ECCC). All of which she gives her time,
talents and resources to promote at every opportunity she can.
Cheri is the proud daughter of Michael and Doris Fuller, sister of Malon and Jeremy Fuller as well as mother to her daughter, Bria Holderness & son in law, Semaj Holderness, and “ZaZa” to her grandchildren, Lailynn, Macc, Kace, Kyree, and Mya.
Jolene Foster, long-time resident of Cleburne has been serving families at Crosier-Pearson Cleburne Funeral Home since 2018 as an Evening Attendant. Her outgoing personality, drive and compassion for others is evident in all she does. We are blessed to have her taking care of families with us!
Jolene retired after 21 years with Cleburne ISD, where she left her mark on countless children whom she taught at Cooke Elementary. However, since retirement she has been helping take care of her
granddaughter, Baker, and is quick to tell you it is her favorite “job” ever! She and her husband, Stacey have been married since 1981. Stacey was a teacher and tennis coach, retiring from Cleburne ISD after 34 years. They have one daughter, Kennedy, of who they are extremely proud of.
Jolene grew up in Quanah and graduated from Quanah HS in 1978. She went on to attend West Texas State University. Jolene is an active member of King’s Daughters – Heart of Gold Circle in which she can
be found promoting their endeavors, at every event and activity the club hosts. Charity is at her heart and soul, to say the least. Jolene enjoys attending Mavericks games, reading and taking care of her yard and flowers.
Lynda Schawo, one of the Administrative Team Members of Crosier- Pearson Cleburne Funeral Home since the summer of 2022 brings with her a level of compassion that is un-wavering. Serving families in need
with great care and dedication is her priority. We are blessed to have her on our team!
As Lynda states, she is “a gypsy at heart”, having a great love of traveling. Her dream is to retire and live/travel in a RV, exploring the
country. She has lived in Texas, Oklahoma, Kansas, Colorado, Louisiana, Florida and Minnesota – but Cleburne has been her home for the longest stent of all her homes. She is the Counseling Secretary at Cleburne High School, where she is dedicated to the staff and students alike. Lynda is a 1993 graduate of Perryton High School – Perryton, TX and Southeastern Academy of Travel and Tourism – Kissimee, FL.
Lynda married Timothy Schawo on September 6, 2003 in Liberal, KS and they have two sons, who Lynda is immensely proud of. She is a member of The Heights Church, Cleburne. In her spare time, Lynda enjoys spending time with her family, listening to various podcasts,
participating in Bible studies, reading, attending concerts, dining with her girlfriends, exploring wineries in the area and traveling.
Ellen Colbert, one of Crosier-Pearson Cleburne Funeral Home’s Administrative Team Members has been with the funeral home since February of 2022. Her attention to detail and desire to help families and guests navigate through their journey of loss is evident in all she does at the funeral home. We are blessed to have her on our team! Ellen is a long-time resident of Johnson County, having grown up in both Texas and Indiana. She is a 1995 graduate of Richland High School.
She has been married to Cliff Colbert since 2000 and they have children, who keep them on their toes. Ellen is a Math teacher and
Girl’s coach in Joshua as well as a member of the Texas Council of Math Teachers. She enjoys spending time with her family, reading and watching sports of all kinds.
Emil Beckman, long-time resident of Cleburne, returned to the Crosier-Pearson Cleburne Funeral Home team in 2024 as a Funeral Service Attendant. Over the years, and changes in his career, Emil has moved 15 times from Texas to Illinois to California and then finally back to his home state of Texas. Emil worked as K-Mart Corporation over 30 years in Management, Lincoln-Mercury Automotive over 13 years in Sales and Management, Wal-Mart Corporation
over 13 years in Stock Replenishment and Optics before entering the funeral industry where he has worked in Pre-Need Sales, Receptionist and Funeral Service Attendant roles. Emil has been quoted as stating, “I enjoy people and serving their needs. In the funeral business, a caring heart, a generous smile, demonstrated concern and compassion can be a great gift and benefit to those who have lost a loved one.” Emil encompasses all these traits and more. We are blessed to have him working on our team at Crosier-Pearson Cleburne Funeral Home.
Emil was married from 1966-1995 and is a proud father and grandfather today. He is a 1962 graduate of Georgetown High School – Georgetown, Texas and attended Trinity College in Chicago and Deerfield, Illinois. Emil is a current member of the NRA and USCCA, and past member of the Lion’s Club, Chamber of Commerce, Awana, and Indian Guides. He has been a member of several faiths and churches to include: Evangelical Free Church, Baptist Church, Non-Denominational Bible Church, and currently is a member of the Gospel Light Church in
Haltom City. In his spare time, he enjoys gardening, lawn work, fishing, hunting, and horse-back riding.
Administrative Team
Deborah Fails, Office Manager
Deborah has been serving families for over 20 years. Her area of expertise is not only in managing the office but also in filing death records, insurance claims and benefits, and veteran benefits as well as countless other areas, specializing in customizing personalized tributes that are vital to celebrating the life lived.
Detail Clerks & Office Assistants
Patti Stokes, Rebecca Dobbins, Vicki Collins, Linda Hathcock, and Gail Heedley serve our families from the time they enter our facility throughout the time they are with us and beyond, but especially in customizing the personalized tributes such as marquees, video presentations, memorial programs, register books and much more – all focusing on celebrating the life lived.
Deborah Fails, our Office Manager has been with Crosier-Pearson Cleburne Funeral Home since 2004, serving families in various roles
throughout the years. She has been dedicated to serving families with the highest level of care and attention to detail- no matter the task. Deborah’s mission statement for working at Crosier-Pearson Cleburne
Funeral Home is “to do your best in helping and serving families in their time of need”. She not only lives her mission statement, but instills it in other staff members as well. Her servant’s heart, ability to create memorable and personalized tributes for families and desire to always give her best makes her an irreplaceable member of our team.
Deborah was born and raised in Southeast Texas. She and her family have been residents of Cleburne since 1985, where her and her
husband have raised their two children. Deborah spends her free time crafting, gardening and watching sports. Her favorite way to spend time is with her family, especially her two grandchildren.
Patti Stokes, one of Crosier-Pearson Cleburne Funeral Home’s Administrative Team Members has been with the funeral home since 2017. She has been in the funeral industry since 1999 in various administrative, funeral assistant and outreach roles. In her role as the Community Coordinator, Patti served the west Texas market by setting up events and designed programs in the community where she educated the public about funerals in general. Patti left the funeral
industry in 2006 after being recruited into the hotel industry, where she handled events, and then became the Accounts Receivable & Payroll Manager. Although she was not officially “working” in the funeral
industry during this time, she was still married to it. Patti’s husband, Eric Stokes, was active in the industry and served in both the Texas
Funeral Directors Association and the West Texas Funeral Directors Association, which meant she was too! Patti’s eye for detail and
dedication to families in need makes her a perfect fit for our team. She brings years of experience and an open-minded outlook that enhances the level of service we are able to provide families. We are blessed to
have her at Crosier-Pearson Cleburne Funeral Home!
Patti was born and raised in the Abilene area and graduated from Merkel High School. She is the proud mother of two children and two
grandchildren who keep her on her toes. Being a “Gram” is her greatest joy. In her spare time, Patti enjoys shopping, crafting and as well as watching murder mysteries – both real and fiction.
Rebecca Dobbins, one of Crosier-Pearson Cleburne Funeral Home’s Administrative Team Members has been with the funeral home since 2021. She has an eye for detail and truly enjoys creating personalized tributes that celebrate the life lived. Rebecca’s contagious smile and caring nature put families at ease and allow her to connect with them, making her an asset to our team.
Rebecca grew up in South Texas and has been a resident of Cleburne since February of 2021. Her and her husband are active members of the First United Presbyterian Church, Cleburne. In her spare time, Rebecca
enjoys research projects of all kinds, working jigsaw puzzles and word search games as well as spending time with her family.
Vicki Fuller Collins, one of Crosier-Pearson Cleburne Funeral Home’s Administrative Team Members has been with the funeral home since 2019 in various roles throughout the years. Her inviting smile, warm hearted and welcoming nature, as well as her dedication to service and families is un-matched. Vicki believes in doing everything to the best of your ability and holds herself to that standard, especially when helping families. We are blessed to have her on our team!
Vicki was born and raised in Cleburne, graduating Cleburne High School in 1988. She is a long-time member of First Mount Zion Missionary Baptist Church and the King’s Daughters, Hearts of Gold. She attended
Sam Houston State College and works as an Executive Concierge with PwC in Dallas as well.
Vicki is a gifted balloon artist, party planner and crafter. She enjoys spending time with her two daughters, her grandson, and other family
and friends every opportunity she has. However, nothing gives her more joy than being a Glamma!
Gail Heedley, one of Crosier-Pearson Cleburne Funeral Home’s Administrative Team Members has been with the funeral home since 2013. Her dedication of love of serving others makes her a perfect fit for our team. Gail takes pride in serving families in their time of need.
Gail was a long-time resident of the Fort Worth area until moving to Cleburne in 2008, after her daughters all made Cleburne – their home. She graduated Amon Carter Riverside High School in 1971 and retired from American Airlines. Gail is an active member of The Heights Church. Her family ties go back generations in Johnson County and she
remembers fondly the many stories her grandmother would tell her of the area.
Gail enjoys traveling, scrap-booking, gardening, reading, especially in book clubs, family genealogy and gatherings, and participating in Bible study groups. She is the proud mother of three daughters and five
wonderful grandchildren. Her family is the joy in her life without a doubt! She is also a mother of two Dachshunds and a cat.
Toi McNeel, long-time resident of Cleburne, joined the Crosier-Pearson Cleburne Funeral Home team in 2024. She has quickly become a valued member, serving as Receptionist and Administrative Assistant as well as working services. Toi cared for the geriatric population and those in need of rehabilitation from
2013 – 2024 as Licensed Vocational Nurse, graduating from the Hill College Nursing Program in 2013.
Prior to nursing, Toi worked as a hairdresser in Cleburne for over 15 years, graduating from Ogle School of Hair Design in 1992. And before hairdressing, Toi worked as a customer service manager and credit manager with Scott Durafab and Dickson Jenkins Western West. Her many experiences and talents
make her a perfect fit for our team and we are blessed to have her here!
Toi is from a long line of Johnson County and Cleburne family ties. Her father, Raymond McNeel, worked for Santa Fe Railroad and took his family with him on the train across the country and then he and Cynthia Hines McNeel settled in Fort Worth with their five children, before moving home to Cleburne
years later. Toi graduated from Pascal High School in Fort Worth in 1976. She enjoyed the many years of the family participating in local Play-Days and Rodeo events, but especially serving as the Cowtown Posse Sweatheart in 1972.
Toi is the proud mother of two daughters, Nicole Dennis Simpkins and Lacie Dennis Gillick; seven grandchildren, Tate McCall, Ashton Lafountain, Sarah Simpkins, Raymond Simpkins, Reece Simpkins, Matthew Simpkins, and Katie Simpkins; four great-grandchildren, Krystal Lafountain, Conner Lafountain, Paisley Lafountain, and Aubree Baker; four siblings, Kelli Eager, Tahlia Farmer, Shawn McNeel, and Shane McNeel; as well as countless other family members including her partner, Kim Graig.
Toi’s desire to care for others, strive to be the best you can be, rise above all obstacles and faith in God – all make her easy to be around and work along-side.
Pre-Need Counselor and Cremation Specialist
Shane McNeel
Shane has been a pre-need counselor for several years and takes pride in serving families with his knowledge of the funeral industry, personal touch, and expert information. Shane is a lifelong resident of Johnson County and now lives on his family farm just outside of Cleburne and enjoys raising cattle. Please contact him at (817) 648-3559
Community Outreach
Shane McNeel and Frances Hafford
Shane is a lifelong resident of Johnson County and a 1984 graduate of Cleburne High School. He currently helps run his family farm along with his brother, Shawn and brother-in-law, Russell. They enjoy raising beef cattle and supplying their family and friends with fresh, home-grown beef. The family also raises chickens under his sister, Tahlia’s direction and a garden that all the family help to plant, tend and harvest. The generations of ancestors who began the farm and worked it in their lifetimes, would be proud to see the family continuing to do so today. Love of animals has always been vital to Shane’s life whether it be in play days with horses, riding bulls, or showing pigs with his daughters, animals have always been a vital part of his life. None hold a place in his heart like his dogs though.
Shane served a short stent in the United States Navy where he received a degree in Air Traffic Control and was medically discharged in 1987. Most of his adult life, Shane has worked in Sales and volunteering as a youth coach for both boys and girls. He has been married to his lovely wife, Brandi, since December 31, 2006 and they live just outside Cleburne. They have a son and two daughters as well as a son who passed. Shane and Brandi enjoy spending time with their children, friends and family as well as traveling together. They spent many hours traveling to sporting events for their children as well over the years. It is a good thing they both are sports-fans with all the football and softball games they have attended!
Shane brings multiple years of experience in prearranging funeral plans and is a licensed preneed insurance agent. Crosier-Pearson Cleburne Funeral Home is fortunate to have him among our ranks and the funeral industry is blessed to have him back as well! Shane brings a positive outlook and dedication to serving families with his whole heart every day. It is contagious! His love of helping families plan ahead of time, lessening the burden to their families at the time of their loss, drives him to develop individual plans that will celebrate their life in a meaningful way. He takes great pride in reassuring their wishes are conveyed to the smallest detail, thus reassuring families that their wishes are recorded and carried out. Shane is a big proponent for the entire family being involved with the planning as he believes it is emotionally supportive to their loved one setting up their plan ahead of time. Shane’s compassion and belief in healing as well as his strong faith all make him a vital part of our team and the perfect one to be checking on our families after death occurs and services are completed. He believes in serving families before, during and after a death and it is evident in all that Shane does.
Frances Fuller Hafford – Cleburne Legend - retired from Crosier-Pearson Cleburne
Funeral Home after 25 years of dedicated service to families and staff alike earlier this
year (2024). We are saddened to not have her presence in the funeral home daily, but
excited for her to start her second retirement and to begin traveling more. No one
deserves some rest and relaxation more than Frances! We are blessed to say that she
will continue to work with the funeral home and serve as a Cleburne Chamber of
Commerce Ambassador for years to come in her off time from her planned travels.
Frances began working with Jimmy and Carol Wray in 1999 when Mountain Valley
Funeral Home opened its doors as the first staff member hired. In 2000, she then
helped to open Cleburne Funeral Home. She has continued to serve grieving families in
a variety of roles at the funeral home and supported the staff through not only new
openings but also the merger of Cleburne Funeral Home with Crosier-Pearson Mayfield
Funeral Home in 2004 to what became Crosier-Pearson Cleburne Funeral Home.
Frances is a life-long resident of Cleburne, where she has given countless hours and
heart to the community in an abundance of roles. Many of which impacted those around
her and made her most likely, the most awarded citizen in Cleburne ever. If you have
attended any banquet or award ceremony over the past several decades in Cleburne –
you saw her receive an award more than likely. Citizen of the Year is one of her much-
deserved awards along-side the countless others she has been honored with.
Frances retired from Cleburne ISD in 2010, after 40 years of service. She was quoted at
that time saying, “But I’ve always told Stephen that the Lord puts you where you’re
supposed to be. So, this is where I’ve been. And it’s time to say farewell. I have finished
the course and fought the good fight…” This fits her service to the CISD, Crosier-
Pearson Cleburne Funeral Home and Johnson County area, especially Cleburne
perfectly.
Above all, Frances is family focused and oriented. Her son, Stephen Hafford, was and
continues to be the light in her life even after his death in 2019. Her granddaughter,
Bailey Hafford Murphy along with her husband, Cody have blessed her with two great- grandsons, Wilder and Riggs Murphy. Frances has numerous siblings, nieces and
nephews and countless extended family and friends as well.
Frances encompasses many roles and things to us all. She has been described as
being soul stirring with her words of wisdom and her infectious laughter. Her song and
prayer move mountains through her faith. She has a direct line to God without a doubt.
She is the life of the party – the sparkle of all events. She is dedicated, committed and
the ultimate goal-breaker and over-achiever in anything she sets her mind and efforts to
do. We are all better for the impact she has made on our lives – personally, professionally and community.
Visit www.prepaidfunerals.texas.gov for information relating to the purchase of pre-need funeral contracts including descriptions of the trust and insurance funding options available under state law. All complaints must be in writing. Concerning the Prepaid Contract: Texas Department of Banking, 2601 North Lamar Boulevard, Austin, Texas 78705; 1-877/276-5554 (toll free); www.dob.texas.gov.