Upcoming Services

Fairbanks Church of Christ

7710 Fairbanks N. Houston Rd.

Houston, Texas 77040

Visitation: 10:00 a.m.

Service: 11:00 a.m.

Reception: 12:00 p.m.

Rabon Chapel Cemetery: 2:00 p.m.

Marilyn Jean Vaughn, age 64, of Houston, Texas, passed away peacefully on January 6, 2026. Born and raised in Houston to James and Josephine Vaughn, Marilyn was cherished for her warmth and kindness, which touched everyone she met. She found joy in spending time with her family, visiting the beach, and going shopping. Marilyn was admired for her resilience and grace in the face of adversity, and her presence leaves a void that cannot be filled. Her spirit endures in the hearts of all who knew her, and her legacy of love, compassion, and joy will continue to inspire and guide those she leaves behind.

Survived By

Marilyn is lovingly remembered by her brother, Ronnie Vaughn and his wife Susan; her sisters, Sandra Stemp and her husband Wayne, and Karen Matthias and her husband Curtis. She also leaves behind numerous nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends who will forever cherish her memory.

Preceded in Death

She is preceded in death by her parents, James and Josephine Vaughn; her brother, Tommy Vaughn; and her nephew, James Davis.

And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away.

Revelation 21:4

Emil “Bubba” Ross Zapalac, age 63, passed away peacefully on January 11, 2026, in Houston, Texas, after a courageous fight with cancer. Bubba was born on August 25, 1962, in Houston, where he spent most of his life building community, friendships, and, most importantly a deeply loved family.

A devoted husband to Kim Zapalac, father to Ross & Bridgette, grandfather to Kaia, and friend to all, Bubba often said that being a parent and grandparent was his greatest accomplishment—and he lived that truth every day. His family wasn’t just part of his life; it was his life.

Professionally, Bubba worked in various sales roles throughout his career, where his warmth, humor, and gift for conversation left a lasting impression on colleagues and customers alike.

Bubba’s true passions were not hobbies in the traditional sense—his hobbies were his children and his grandchild. He loved knowing every detail of each of their lives, cheering from the sidelines at games, meets, and recitals, and staying closely involved as a coach, supporter, and biggest fan. He coached baseball and basketball, worked with the Greenwood Breakers swim team, proudly served as an Indian Princess Dad and Dance Dad, and never missed an opportunity to show up for those he loved.

A gifted cook and self-proclaimed BBQ king, Bubba expressed his love by cooking for others. Known for his legendary smoked brisket, turkey, pork butt, and chicken, his meals brought people together and created lasting memories. Thanksgiving—and every gathering—will never be quite the same without him or his BBQ.

Bubba never met a stranger. A natural conversationalist, he formed friendships everywhere he went—from Lifetime Fitness, where he was a member for nearly 20 years, to the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, the Knights of Columbus, and the estate sale community he cherished. He was a loyal friend, staying closely connected with friends from Dobie High School and Texas State University, especially his fraternity brothers, whose daily conversations and laughter meant the world to him.

A man of deep faith, Bubba was a devoted member of the Catholic Church.

Bubba is survived by his loving wife, Kim Zapalac; their children, Ross Zapalac (wife Morgan Zapalac) and Bridgette Zapalac (partner Hayden Herren); his cherished granddaughter, Kaia Zapalac; and his Mother-in-law Carol Sorensen. 

He was welcomed into heaven by his parents, Emil Frank Zapalac and Dorothy Louise Zapalac, and by his sister-in-law, Lisa Zapalac.

He is also survived by his brother, Stephen Zapalac; his niece, Hannah McLemore (husband Malcolm McLemore) and her children, Amyah and Savannah; and his nephew, Noah Zapalac.

A Celebration of Life honoring Bubba will be held Saturday at 3:00 p.m. at Swanny’s Grill. Guests are encouraged to dress in bright, joyful attire with the intent of keeping Bubba's joyful and loving spirit alive. We are excited to create a celebration he would have loved.

He will be remembered for his bear hugs, infectious laugh, generous heart, quick wit, and the way he made everyone feel seen and welcome.

His laugh lives on. His love remains. And his presence will forever be felt.

Gather: 9:00 a.m.

Houston National Cemetery:  10:30 a.m. (In Procession)

Military Honors Presented By:

United States Air Force

Houston National Cemetery

10410 Veterans Memorial Drive

Houston, Texas 77038

Meet in Lane #1 at 1:30 p.m. (Not before 1:15 p.m.)

Military Honors Presented By:

United States Army

Houston Honor Guard

Roger Dale McLemore, Sr., born August 1, 1949 passed away peacefully on January 11, 2026 at the age of 76.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Ellen McLemore, his son, Dale McLemore, Jr. and daughters, Kellie Johnson and Janet Gassman. He was a proud grandfather and he took great joy in being a great-grandfather, roles he deeply treasured.

Roger proudly served his country as a United States Army veteran, a commitment that reflected his strong sense of duty and patriotism. He was also a Mason, holding firm to the values of brotherhood, integrity, and service throughout his life.

Roger will be remembered for his steadfast love for his family, his loyalty, and the quiet strength he carried into every role he held. His presence, guidance, and care will be greatly missed by all who knew him. His memory will live on through the generations of family he loved and the legacy he leaves behind.

            “I hope you're dancing in the sky
      And I hope you're singing in the angel's choir
     And I hope the angels know what they have
  I'll bet it's so nice up in Heaven since you arrived”

                                         - Dancing in the Sky by Dani & Lizzi

Visitation: 11:30 a.m.

Chapel:  1:00 p.m. 

Houston National Cemetery: 2:15 p.m. (In Procession)

Military Honors Presented By:

United States Navy

Houston Honor Guard