Variee Flanagan

Variee Flanagan, a beacon of love and service, was born on January 22, 1935, in Hope, Arkansas, and embarked on her journey to a peaceful rest surrounded by her loving family on December 27, 2025, in Commerce, Texas. Variee’s steadfast devotion to family and faith carved a legacy of compassion that echoes through the hearts of all who knew her.

For many years, Variee dedicated herself to nurturing the health and wellbeing of children as a beloved Child Nutrition worker for Commerce ISD. Her influence extended beyond the walls of the school; she was a devoted member of Mt. Moriah Missionary Baptist Church for over half a century. Her commitment to her faith was exemplified through her active engagement with the Rebecca Circle Missionary Organization, where she offered support and service to her church family and community alike. Variee fondly remembered her roots at Haines Chapel in Hope, AR, where she worshipped with her family during her formative years, instilling in them values that would last a lifetime.

Above all, Variee was a faithful wife and devoted mother. She radiated unconditional love towards her children, grandchildren, and extended family, remaining a steadfast anchor throughout their lives. Her vibrant spirit was matched only by her love for the Lord, which she shared with all whom she encountered. Whether through heartfelt conversations or acts of kindness, Variee impacted those around her in ways that will be cherished forever.

Her hobbies included fishing, which brought her joy on tranquil afternoons, as well as the camaraderie found within the church community she so deeply loved. Variee was a proud recipient of an award from the Hunt County African American Leadership Conference, honoring her dedication to her community and affirming her role as a nurturer and ambassador of goodwill.

Variee’s family, who survived her, includes her daughters: Rose Bailey and husband Herbert of Commerce; Tyera and husband Keenon Allen of Commerce; Dorothy Flanagan of Commerce; Felicia Flanagan of Commerce; and her son, Cleon Flanagan and wife Jennifer of Ladonia;  28 grandchildren, 38 great grandchildren and 1 great great grandchild.  She also shared life’s joys with her sister, Jewel Phillips and husband Lewis of Prescott, AR, who stood by her side throughout her journey.

Her passing has brought profound sorrow to all who loved her dearly, including her pallbearers—Reginal Flanagan, Joel Mayberry, Lance Allen, Landon Allen, Jordan Flanagan, Chase Flanagan, Nickolas Gadlin II, Erwin Kinchlow, Cedric Richardson, Chance Flanagan, Carvez Flanagan, and Tyson Shaw. Honorary pallbearers—Herbert Bailey, Keenon Allen, Nick Gadlin, Pat Gadlin, and George Brigham—will also carry her legacy forward in their hearts.

Variee was preceded in death by her parents, Leo Morrison and Louise Newton Morrison; her beloved husband, Cleon Flanagan Sr.; her cherished daughters, Brenda Gadlin and Sandra Flanagan; her son, Donnie Flanagan; and her siblings, Bobby Spearmen and Ledale Morrison.

A viewing for friends and family will be held on January 2, 2026, from 3:00 PM to 6:30 PM at Jones - Walker & Son Funeral Home, located in Commerce, TX. Following the viewing, a funeral service will be held on January 3, 2026, at 1:00 PM at Mt. Moriah Baptist Church in Commerce, TX, where her community will come together to honor a life so beautifully lived.  Rev. Larry Dixon will be the eulogist.

As we remember Variee Flanagan, let us celebrate her unwavering spirit, the warmth of her heart, and the legacy of love she leaves behind in each of us.