Mildred Gaston

Mildred Mc Ree Gaston, "Mimi", passed away peacefully on October 2, 2011 in Longview, Texas. She was just one week away shy of turning 102. Born October 8, 1909 in Casscoe, Arkansas, Mildred was the first born to the late Mary Ethel Porter and Samuel Mims Mc Ree. In her young adult years Mildred and her sister Ruby sang over the radio calling their group the Mc Ree Sisters. The first radio station that headlined the sisters was KLRA in Little Rock. Mildred lived in Arkansas and Kansas with her family prior to relocating in Houston, Texas. She attended the University of Houston where she earned her BA in Home Economics. Mildred met her husband James Wilson Gaston on a blind date in Houston, Texas. They married on April 21, 1939. They made their home in Houston where they raised three children. In 1972 Mildred suddenly lost her beloved husband. With her children grown she turned her energies to caring for her aging parents who were living in west Texas. In 1980 Mildred began a new journey as she became both mother and grandmother to her six year old grandson. She took great delight in attending every event that her grandson was involved with. Mildred even turned her home into a haunted house on Halloween for her grandson and his friends. Her greatest joy was her family. Mildred never lost her love for music. Singing and playing her piano was her favorite pastime. Her volunteer time was dedicated to serving women who suffered from mental health conditions. She attended River Oaks Baptist Church in Houston and First Baptist Church in Longview. Mildred will be forever remembered for her zest for life, quick wit, and love for her friends and family. Survivors include children, Barbara and James P. Gaston of Austin; Kathryn and Thomas R. Gaston of San Antonio; Janet and Randy Erwin of Longview; grandchildren, Jim Gaston,, Emily and Grant Gaston, Rebecca Gaston, Allison and Jon Meyers, and Fin Erwin; great grandchildren, Zakk, Daniel, Bridget, and Joshua Gaston, Steel Meyers; and her sister Ruby Harris and dear friends Carol Wynn and Flora Williams. Graveside services will be held at 3 PM Wednesday at Bernice Cemetery in Bernice, Louisiana under direction of Rader Funeral Home of Longview. The family requests that those who desire may make memorial contributions to Beacon Hospice at Margaret's House, 5016 Gilmer Rd., Longview, TX 75605

Mildred Gaston

October 8, 1909 - October 2, 2011