Cecil Ray Fullen

Died: Feb. 7, 2013

Cecil Ray Fullen, 92, passed away peacefully Thursday in Dallas, Texas, at his residence at Walnut Place surrounded by loving staff and friends.

He was born Dec. 10, 1919, in Chuckey, to the late William Walter and Roxie Bell Fullen. Following the death of his father, Cecil became a resident of Dallas, where he was raised by aunt and uncle from age 8.

As an active member of the youth group in the Ervay Street United Methodist Church, Cecil met his future bride, Nora V Nave. They married on Sept. 3, 1948, and celebrated 55 wonderful years together, including several bowling championships.

Cecil had previously attended A&M University when he joined the U.S. Air Force to serve in World War II. His airplane mechanic expertise from military service led to a long successful career at Braniff Airlines, where he retired as a safety inspector.

In addition to his mechanical talents and interests, Cecil was a devoted, lifelong Methodist.

After the Ervay Street Church burned, it was relocated as Schreiber Memorial United Methodist Church in 1965. He and Nora V were charter members and he continued to serve faithfully in many capacities including as chairman of the Building Committee and trustee, as well as Schreiber's Lay Representative to the Methodist Annual Conference for 48 consecutive years.

Mr. Fullen had a big-hearted appetite for life. He was a people person who enjoyed learning about others and demonstrated a remarkable memory for the details they shared.

Survivors include a sister-in-law: Mabel Fullen of Afton; a nephew: Fred Simpson, and a niece: Ann Dunn, both of the Ottway community; and a special great-nephew: Josh Dean.

In addition to his wife and parents, he was preceded in death by one sister: Elizabeth Simpson; and two brothers: James Fullen and an infant.

A memorial service was held at 11 a.m. today at Schreiber Memorial United Methodist Church, 4525 Rickover Drive, Dallas, TX 75244.

Visitation was held Sunday at Restland Funeral Home, Dallas.

On Cecil's behalf, the family expressed gratitude to the exceptional staff of Walnut Place for their faithful, devoted care that meant so much to him.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to Schreiber Memorial Church or to a charity of the donor's choice.

This obituary is provided as a courtesy by Doughty-Stevens Funeral Home.