Cissi Lanier

Cissi Lanier, age 90, of Linden, TX departed her life on earth on Wednesday, October 7. Cissi passed peacefully surrounded by her large and loving family after a brief illness.

Cissi was born in Wills Point, TX to Hazel and Nelson Hargrove on July 15, 1930. Cissi had lifelong friends from Wills Point including her special group, The Five Roses and a Thorn (Cissi was the Thorn). Cissi married the love of her life, Tom Lanier in October, 1951. Tom was a dashing war hero who attended Texas A&M University and Cissi and Tom attended the A&M versus Baylor football game for their honeymoon. Tom and Cissi settled in Linden where Tom owned the local Chevrolet dealership and Cissi ran the household. Cissi and Tom raised five children in Linden and made many wonderful friends. Cissi was well known in Linden and Cass County for her genuine love, kindness, and charm by everyone she met. She was also known by her affectionate name, “Honey”, to her grandchildren and great grandchildren. Among other honors, Cissi was the first female recognized by the Linden Chamber as Citizen of the Year. She was also an active Den Mother, Girl Scout Leader, founding member of the Linden Garden Club, faithful member of the Linden United Methodist Church, Sunshine Sunday School Class, Linden Hospital Auxiliary, and American Cancer Society. She was also the washboard player in the well known local band, The Five Slows. After Tom’s passing, she became a member of “The Coffee Ladies” who hold their daily coffee breaks at Crump’s Grocery.

Cissi was preceded in death by her loving husband, Tom in 2011, and her brother, Nelson (Bud) Hargrove. Cissi is survived by her children, Lesa Lanier Lovett (Jeff), Denise Mahan (Mike), Frank Lanier (Judy), Dana Boland (Gary), and Glenn Lanier (Melissa). She is also survived by five grandchildren, Tommy Lanier, Lauren Lanier, Bradly Lanier, Michael Mahan, and LaShay Ebarb. Additionally there are fourteen great grandchildren.

Graveside services were held on Friday, October 9, at 2 p.m. at the Linden Cemetery with Reverend Kelly Krone and Dr. Judy Lanier offciating.

Memorials may be made to the Linden United Methodist Church, the Linden Cemetery Association, or the charity of your choice.

An online guestbook can be signed at www.reeder-davis.com