Veribest ISD

Our 'VeriBEST' Family Gone Home!

A Letter from Heaven: Hey everybody, I hope this doesn't reach you too late. I don't want you to worry, because life up here is great. I can't wait for you to see the beauty of heaven, but I know it's not your time. I really miss you guys, but I know you'll be just fine. You know I can see you right, so please stop shedding tears. You guys, I'm perfectly fine, so conquer all your fears. I'll be watching your every move. relax! I won't spill your beans. But stop all those naughty things you do, because you know there's nothing He can't see. I need you to come here to meet me, but not if you misbehave, so please keep God in your heart, and you'll be safe and saved. Hey guys I know you miss me. It's really hard not to. But please, please stop grieving, because you're making me sad too. You guys have been a great family, and I am truly blessed. You've raised me through my earthly life, now God will do the rest. He's really a great person, and an even better friend, so I'm in great hands, and on Him you can also depend. Oh boy, I'm getting carried away. I want to say so many things, but I really have to go now, because today I'm getting my wings. Bye you guys, love you forever and a day!

P.S. - Be good. I'll be watching!!!

Veribest Excellence: "There are no traffic jams on the Extra Mile" - Roger Staubach

Mr. Kenneth L. Newman
Veribest Elementary School Principal
'In Memoriam'
December 4, 1948 - January 6, 2014.

Mr. Newman was born and raised in San Angelo, Texas. He graduated from Angelo State University with a Bachelor of Science in Health, All-Level Physical Education, and a Minor in English. He later earned his Masters of Education in Guidance and Counseling from Angelo State University.

While attending Central High School, Newman was a member of the 1966 State Champion Football team coached by the great Emory Bellard. He played alongside Randy Stout, Gary Mullins, Dallel Kirkham, and Rudy Izzard and remained friends with his team for a lifetime.

During his diverse career, Mr. Newman has taught and coached in the San Angelo ISD; served as a K-12 Counselor with the Christoval and Eldorado ISD's; High School Principal with the Eldorado ISD; Middle school and High School Counselor at the Brackettville ISD; Elementary and Middle School Counselor with the Eldorado ISD; and Veribest Elementary and Secondary School Principal.

Ken Newman, a lifelong educator, has been remembered as a man dedicated to those around him. Students, educators, friends and family stood in a line that wrapped around First Presbyterian Church, San Angelo; where Newman served as a deacon, for his memorial service on Friday, January 10th. More than 500 people filled the sanctuary and its balconies, spilling into the church lobby and commons area. Dozens stood when pews filled.

Mr. Newman's pursuit of excellence was indicative of his character, and is second to none.

Veribest Excellence: "The Greatest Gift That You can Give to Others is the Gift of Unconditional Love and Acceptance." - Brian Tracey

Mr. Chester Collier
Veribest Preschool Programs for Children with Disabilities (PPCD) Educator
'In Memoriam'
May 21, 1946 - October 3, 2012.

Chester Collier passed away in his home on Oct. 3, 2012. His last wish was that everyone be joyful and not let this time be filled with sorrow. He said, “I am never alone, God is always with me.” Born on May 21, 1946 in Loraine, TX to Bud and Eula Collier, Chester lived a rich and fulfilled life. He grew up in Inadale, TX and went to school in nearby Hermleigh. Growing up the son of a farmer he was never afraid of a hard days work. In his younger days he loved riding his motorcycle with his dad and brother. Riding through the winding country roads was what he liked best.

On July 23, 1966, he married his long time sweetheart, Beverly Doyle, from Loraine, TX. Their family time was spent between Sweetwater and Loraine. Chester and Beverly had one son, Jim Collier, and as soon as he was old enough he joined his dad on those special motorcycle rides.

Chester was a cotton farmer, a member of the National Guard, a truck driver and then found his true calling working with clients from the Big Spring State School where he retired in 2006. Shortly after retirement Chester found a new work home at Small Schools Cooperative in the Veribest Preschool Program for children with disabilities. Known as “Pops” Chester once again brought joy, hope and compassion to each person he came in contact with. When Pop was home, he loved being with his two grandsons. Whether teaching them to plow, work on a tractor, fish or play baseball, his love was unconditional and never failing. He played a vital part in who they are today and who they will become tomorrow. Chester has touched many lives and we will miss his presence each day but we know he is in Heaven! What a glorious place for our Pop to be.

Mr. Richard Earl "Rick" Lancaster, 65, flew to Jesus Thursday, January 19, 2023.

Rick was born February 17, 1957 in San Angelo where he was a lifelong resident. Rick was a veteran of the US Army serving as a tank commander, from 1974 until 1977.

Rick married Joni Parmer McMillan on September 23, 1983 in San Angelo. Rick loved and adored his wife, children, and grandchildren. Throughout the years, Rick was very faithful and supportive to Joni as she pastored churches and helped with many other ministries. He often called himself "a good pastor's wife" with a big smile on his face.

Rick retired from the City of San Angelo as a supervisor in 2014 after 29 years of service. He also owned and operated Ricks on the Spot Automotive and Lancaster Hauling. Up until the time of his passing, Rick worked as the transportation coordinator at Veribest ISD. His favorite part of the job was transporting his "adopted" children by bus to and from school and events.

Rick was an avid fisherman and enjoyed taking others including those physically challenged! He even helped children with the City Fishing Rodeos, baiting and taking fish off the hook. Using his faithful pontoon boat, he took children and parents out fishing during the CAST (Catch A Special Thrill) event for West Texas Rehab in 2021. In typical Rick fashion, he was always willing to help whether it was a kitty needing a home or an elderly person needing a door installed, he would be the "hands and feet of Jesus". Rick loved his garden and had a green thumb. He loved playing Santa and, with his rosy cheeks, was perfect for the job.