Erbia Buggs

Erbia Faye Hurd Buggs was born September 8, 1941, in Longview, Texas, to the parents of March and Vannie Mae Windom Hurd. She was the eldest of six siblings. She attended the public schools of Longview, beginning with East Ward Elementary, and graduated from “Longview Negro High” in 1959. Erbia was the first black student of Longview to receive the title of “Miss Flame” in 1956. She received many academic honors throughout high school, which led to scholarships to several colleges.

In May of 1961, Erbia married her “high school sweetheart,” Travis Buggs, and to this union in 1963, one child was born, Tammy LaShane, the love of their lives.

In January of 1970, Erbia began employment as an accountant for Mobile Oil Corporation and retired in 1996 after 26 years of service. She continued her education and received an associate’s degree in accounting from Eastfield College; a BA degree from SMU in “Political Science (Pre-law); and a MS degree from Amber University in “Business & Human Relations." She also received her Texas certification for teachers’ in secondary education. She successfully completed the John C. Ford Program of People’s Business college education and acquired many class course hours in counseling.

Erbia was baptized at a young age. She and Travis were faithful members of Southern Hills Church of Christ. She served in many capacities for the church, namely: hospitality, education committee, children’s Bible school teacher, grief committee, and adult choir. Erbia was a great financial supporter for Southwestern Christian College and served on the Beautification Committee.

Erbia enjoyed spending time with friends and family, reading, playing games, traveling, and most importantly, teaching.

Erbia was preceded in death by her daughter, Tammy LaShane Buggs, her husband, Travis Buggs, and her mother and father, March and Vannie Maye Hurd.

Erbia is survived by her three sisters, Jean Simmons (Arthur), Shirley Allen, and Yyvonne Hurd; two brothers, Roy Hurd (Yloundia) and Homer Hurd (Jean - deceased); a host of nieces, nephews, sisters-in-law, brothers-in-law, and other relatives and friends.

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