La Rue Rankin, 74, of Big Spring, Texas, died on Sunday, April 25, 2004, at her residence. Graveside funeral services will be held at 2:00 PM Tuesday, April 27, 2004, at the Peace Chapel at Trinity Memorial Park with Priest C. H. Whiteman, of the Remanant Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, Skiatook, Oklahoma, officiating.She was born on October 18, 1929, in Mitchell County, Texas and married Horace W. Rankin on August 26, 1950 in Odessa, Texas. Mrs. Rankin had lived in Big Spring since 1935. She enjoyed the rodeo and competed as a ribbon runner with her husband since 1979. Her hobbies were doing crossword puzzles, painting, and working in her yard and around the house. She loved people, especially her family and her animals.She was a member of College Baptist Church; a member of Beta Sigma Phi Sorority and a member of NSPRA (National Senior Pro Rodeo Association). Survivors include her husband, Horace Rankin of Big Spring; two daughters and sons-in-law, Valencia and Kyle Ditto of Big Spring and Teresa and Rex Cox of Weatherford; four grandsons, Justin Cox of Weatherford, Shey Ditto of Irving, Corey Cox of Keller and Colby Ditto of Big Spring and her stepmother, Mildred Browne of Synder. The family suggests memorials to the Allison Cancer Center, 301 North N Street, Midland, Texas 79701 or to Odyssey Hospice, 1003 E FM 700, Big Spring, Texas 79720.Arrangements under the direction of Nalley-Pickle & Welch Funeral Home & Crematory of Big Spring. Online condolences can be made at: www.npwelch.com,
