TOM GREEN COUNTY TEXAS- Obits:San Angelo Standard-Times - December,
2004
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The San Angelo Standard-Times is a E.W. Scripps newspaper. 
Copyright (c)2003 - http://www.texaswest.com/
 http://www.usgwarchives.net/copyright.htm
 
December 1 

GERALDINE LORENA HULSEY 

ODESSA — Geraldine Lorena Hulsey, 70, of Odessa died Saturday, Nov.
27, 2004, while visiting family for the holidays. Mrs. Hulsey was
born Oct. 14, 1934, in Keota, Okla., to Edgar and Lorena Cole. After
she retired from the University of Oklahoma, her favorite pastime was
spending time with her children and grandchildren. She loved to cook
for her family and friends. She was always finding new recipes to
try. She dedicated her life to caring for her family and friends. She
was preceded in death by her husband James Hulsey. Survivors include
one daughter, Rhonda Arledge and husband Larry of San Angelo; three
sons, Dewayne Fletcher and wife Ellen of Norman, Okla., Mike Hulsey
and wife Anita of Norman, Okla., and Roger Hulsey and wife Susie of
Odessa; her sisters Jewel Gaultney, Edna Stamps, Sibby Walden and
Kathryn Palmer; her brother Kenneth Cole; 14 grandchildren; and nine
great-grandchildren and one more due in December. Visitation was from
4 p.m. to 7 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 30, at Hubbard-Kelly Funeral Home.
Funeral service will be at 10 a.m. Wednesday, Dec. 1, in Hubbard-
Kelly Funeral Home Chapel. Interment will follow in Sunset Memorial
Gardens. 
 
Hubbard-Kelly Funeral Home 

VICKIE JO CLARK 

SAN ANGELO — Our beloved Vickie Jo Clark went home to her Lord and
Savior on Monday, Nov. 29, 2004, after a courageous battle with
cancer. Service will be at 11 a.m. Wednesday, Dec. 1, in Johnson’s
Funeral Home Chapel with interment following in Fairmount Cemetery.
Vickie was born in San Angelo on March 26, 1961, to Joe and Theresa
Miller Clark. She was a graduate of Lake View High School and Angelo
State University. Vickie went on to become a talented and
compassionate registered nurse and found great fulfillment in her
career. She was close to her co-workers at SCCI Hospital where she
worked for the last several years. Vickie loved living life and was
always ready to have fun with her friends. Thanks for all the good
times Ellen, Lisa, Shawna, Carla and Charlotte. She enjoyed
traveling, Saints hockey, her dog Gracie and meeting new people.
Vickie was a devoted mother, daughter, sister, aunt and friend. She
was preceded in death by her father, Joe Clark; grandparents Raymond
and Helen Miller; grandparents J.E. and Vida Clark; and an uncle,
Rodney Miller. Vickie is survived by her daughter Amanda; mother
Theresa Knoche; sister Carolyn Scherr; and nieces and nephews, Brook
and Erik Taunton, Preston and Mandi Scherr, Nikki Scherr and Jennifer
Scherr, all of San Angelo, and Brian Gortney of Frisco; special aunt
and uncle Bonnie and Robert Sansing of San Angelo; aunt Mary Frances
Clark of San Angelo; uncle Tom Clark of San Antonio; cousins Angela
and Todd Friend of San Angelo, Tim Sansing of Fort Worth, John Clark,
Ricky Clark and Ronnie Clark of San Antonio. Pallbearers will be
Brian Gortney, Preston Scherr, Eric Taunton, Ricky Clark, John Clark
and Mike Cahill. Honorary pallbearers will be Tim Sansing, Todd
Friend, Scott Briley, Johnny Cox, Corri Moffat, Daniel Chaput, Scott
Reid and Matt Frick. The family would like to thank all of Vickie’s
friends for the kindness and devotion shown to her and her family
during her illness. Special thanks to Dr. Chang, Dr. Gibson and
Shawna, Dr. Hunt and Audra; Dr. Saborio, Dr. Rivera, Steve Hines and
the staff at Hope Clinic and Hospice of San Angelo. A special thanks
for prayer from Victory Christian Fellowship, Glen Meadows Baptist
Church, Park Heights Baptist Church and First Presbyterian Church.
After the services, visitors will be received at the family home
until 3 p.m. Contributions can be made to Hospice of San Angelo or
Meals for the Elderly. 
 
Johnson’s Funeral Home 

FRANK K. ANTILLY 

WINTERS — Frank K. Antilley, 80, of Wingate died Tuesday, Nov. 30,
2004, at his residence. He was born Oct. 9, 1924, in Elmdale. He
married Marianne McClure on Oct. 15, 1944, in Abilene. He served in
the Merchant Marines during World War II. He was a very prominent
rancher at Wingate and a member of First Baptist Church in Winters,
where he served as trustee for many years. Frank K. was involved in
numerous organizations including Taylor Telephone Board of 48 years,
Valley Creek Water Control Board for 45 years, Farm Bureau Board,
Taylor County Exposition Board, Taylor County Extension Program
Council, Blackwell School Equalization Board and Taylor County Sheep
and Goat Raisers Board. He was extremely active in local and area
projects including Boy Scout council, West Texas Fair Lamb Show,
volunteer fireman at Wingate, Wingate Lion’s Club, American Society
of Range Management and several years working with youth at the
Winters Stock Show. Frank K. was a staunch supporter of the West
Texas Rehab as one of the founding members of the West Texas
Cattleman’s Roundup. Mr. Antilley was preceded in death by his
parents, Frank H. and Nalda Antilley; and one sister, Doris Lind
Manahan. Survivors include his wife, Marianne Antilley of Wingate-
Shep; one daughter, Cindy Cathey and husband, Bill, of Wingate; two
sons, Tommy Antilley and wife, Kei, of Robert Lee, and Gary Antilley
and wife, Stasia, of Guthrie; 10 grandchildren, Shelly and Lupe
Guevara of Winters, Jamie and Jeff Weaver of Winters, Scott Antilley,
Casey and Christy Antilley, Ryan and Kallie Antilly of Abilene, Cara
and Brad Ledbetter of Honolulu, Hawaii, Hollie and Jeremy Sockwell of
Sweetwater, Kourtney Cathey of Irving and Clay Antilley of Robert
Lee; great-grandchildren, Hannah, Jeffrey, Mollie and Matthew Weaver
of Winters; one brother, Joe Antilley and wife, Mozelle, of Elmdale;
two brothers-in-law, Bill McClure of Baton Rouge, La., and Jay
McClure and wife, Lois, of Lubbock. Service will be at 2 p.m.
Thursday, Dec. 2, at First Baptist Church in Winters with the Rev.
Barry Taylor officiating. Family visitation will be at 6 p.m.
Wednesday, Dec. 1, at the Winters Funeral Home. Burial will be in
Shep Cemetery. Pallbearers are Bill Colburn, Kobert Paschal, Thurman
Self, Bill Walker, Dwayne Vogler and Johnny Walker. Honorary
pallbearers are Thomas Hyde and directors of Taylor Telephone Co-Op.
Memorials can be made to West Texas Rehab Center, 4601 Hartford,
Abilene, TX 79605, or First Baptist Church, 104 W. Truitt, Winters,
TX 79567. 
 
Winters Funeral Home 

W. R. "JINKS" POWELL 

COLORADO CITY — Mr. W.R. “Jinks” Powell, 93, of Colorado City died
Sunday evening, Nov. 28, 2004, in a local hospital. Services will be
at 1 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 2, at the All Saints’ Episcopal Church with
the Rev. Dennis Bosley, the Rev. Monte Jones and the Rev. Steve
Birdwell officiating. Burial will follow in the Colorado City
Cemetery. Mr. Powell was born in Mitchell County on Nov. 26, 1911, to
George Lee and Mattie Irene Thomas Powell, a prominent ranching
family that has been ranching in Mitchell and Sterling Counties since
1891. He graduated in 1930 from Colorado High and attended three
years of pre-law at TCU, where he was the captain of the track team.
He then went to the University of Texas where he studied law for a
year and met Ester Elenor Philquist. They were married in Austin on
Jan. 2, 1937; she preceded him in death on Dec. 11, 1987, after 50
years of marriage. He was a lifelong farmer, a member of the All
Saints’ Episcopal Church and a Shriner. He was a longtime member of
the Texas Cattle Ranchers Association and a founding member of the
Mitchell County Appraisal District board. He is survived by two sons,
George Powell of Colorado City and Don and wife Anne Powell of Robert
Lee; five grandchildren, Latricia Uselton of Kingswood, Dane Powell
of Colorado City, Reed Powell of Snyder, Page Powell of Midland and
Blis Freeman of Dallas; 10 great-grandchildren, Lawren Uselton of
Kingswood, Britney Powell, Kali Powell and Jordan Powell, all of
Colorado City, Elenor Powell and Colton Powell, both of Snyder,
Kimberly Medina of Midland, Lawson Freeman, Hadley Freeman and Sutton
Freeman, all of Dallas; two great-great-grandchildren, Avery Powell
and Alexander Powell, both of Lubbock; numerous nieces and nephews,
and many friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife
and seven brothers and sisters. 
 
Kiker-Seale Funeral Home 

DAMON PHILLIP SMITH 

Damon philip smith iii LLANO — Damon Philip Smith III of New Canaan,
Conn., died Saturday, Nov. 27, 2004, of a sudden illness. He was 57
years old. Born May 13, 1947, in Austin, Texas, to Damon Philip Smith
Jr. and Mary Waltmon Smith, Damon grew up in Llano, Texas, the Hill
Country that he loved. In keeping with his proud heritage of
cattlemen, Damon worked as a boy for his father — cattle ranching or
astride a horse. Summers and after school, Damon worked for the
family business, the Llano Livestock Auction. Graduating in 1965 from
Llano High School, and staying true to family tradition, he went on
to attend the University of Texas, graduating with a degree in
business in 1969. He went back to the University of Texas for his
Master’s in Business Administration in 1971. While at UT, Damon
married Sara Ann Schmidt of Amarillo. Upon graduation, Damon began
working for Rotan Mosle Inc. of Houston in the municipal bond
Business. Later, in Dallas, Damon worked for Hornblower Weeks Inc. in
their municipal bond department. In 1981, much to the chagrin of
family members in Texas, Damon was called up to the New York office
of First Boston Corp. where he would move his family into the town of
New Canaan, Conn. What was to be a two-year plan turned into a 24-
year hiatus from Texas. He often could be heard saying “This ain’t
Texas, but it ain’t that bad.” Damon would continue his work in the
municipal bond business, later working for Dillon Reed Inc. and
eventually for JPMorgan where he would spend the next 14 years. Just
this past June, Damon retired from JPMorgan and began working for
Samco Capital Markets with his son, Casey, in their bond department.
To mark Damon’s life by only his career would be a tragedy second
only to his death. It was through these venues that he was able to
truly make his mark on the places and the people with whom he
involved himself. Never one to limit his efforts or think twice about
stretching himself too thin, he immersed himself into his love of
family, friends, work and church. Damon was on the board of advisers
at the University of Texas Graduate School, Municipal Advisory
Council of Texas, Municipal Securities Rule Making Board, Shawnee
Municipal Bond Club, Believe in Me Foundation and various other
charity work events and committees. Damon is survived by his wife
Sara; sons, Casey Shurtz Smith of New York and Tatum Cummings Smith
of New Canaan; his mother, May “Chu Chu” Waltmon Smith; his brother
Hatch Cummings Smith and wife Fraser of Llano, Texas; nephew Hatch
Cummings Smith Jr. of Argentina; nieces, Katherine Suttles Smith,
Dinah Ligon Barksdale and husband Barry, Frances Ligon Boyd and
husband Scott and Ellen Ligon Gold and husband Bob; and 11 great-
nephews and nieces, all of Austin. Also surviving are his brother-in-
law Bill Schmidt and wife Darlene of Spiro, Okla.; and nieces, Deb
Barrett and husband Ty of Spiro, Cecilia Yi and husband Timothy of
Cincinnati, Ohio, and Sally Gutting and husband Tom of Houston;
uncles, DeWitt Waltmon and wife Muffy of Houston and Robert Shurtz of
San Francisco, Calif. Preceding Damon in death was his sister Diane
Maxson Smith Ligon; father Damon Philip Smith Jr.; aunt Margie Smith
Shurtz; and son Damon Philip Smith IV. Memorial service will be held
at 2 p.m. Friday, Dec. 3, in the Llano City Cemetery in Llano, Texas.
Following the service, a reception will be held at the home of his
mother. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions in memory of Damon
can be made to the St. Mark’s Episcopal Church of New Canaan, Conn.,
or Grace Episcopal Church of Llano, Texas. 
 
Waldrope-Hatfield-Hawthorne Funeral Home 

DOUGLAS COLBURN 

WINTERS — Douglas Colburn, 81, of Winters died Monday, Nov. 29,
2004, in the Bronte Health and Rehab Center. He was born Nov. 25,
1923, in Winters and graduated from Winters High School. He served in
the U.S. Navy during World War II. He married Cleo Sprinkle on Sept.
13, 1944, in Drasco. He was a farmer and rancher and a member of
First Baptist Church in Winters. Survivors include his wife, Cleo
Colburn of Winters; two sons, Ronald Douglas Colburn of San Angelo
and Derrell Colburn and wife, Sherry, of De Soto; one brother, James
Clayton “Mutt” Colburn and wife, Jane, of Quitman; four sisters,
Emily Mathis of San Antonio, Neva Puckett and Nell Bowen, both of
Winters, and Deulah Howard of San Angelo; six grandchildren; and
seven great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by a brother, Lee
Colburn. Service will be at 2 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 1, at the First
Baptist Church in Winters with the Rev. Barry Taylor officiating.
Burial will be in Pumphrey Cemetery. Pallbearers are Scotty Belew,
Billy Frank Belew, John Paul Belew, Mike Mitchell, Randall Conner and
Phil Colburn. In lieu of flowers, memorial can be made to VistaCare
Hospice of San Angelo or the First Baptist Church. 
 
Winters Funeral Home 

ELIZABETH ROBERTS HANCOCK 

ELIZABETH ROBERTS HANCOCK JUNCTION — Elizabeth Roberts Hancock of
Lubbock, Texas, passed away at her residence on Wednesday, Nov. 24,
2004, at the age of 76. She is survived by her husband, Mark Hancock;
two sisters, Georgia Boyd and Sidney J. DeMoss of Junction; one
brother, Orvy Roy Roberts of Washington State; and several nieces and
nephews. She was preceded in death by her father, Sid W. Roberts; her
mother, Vera Ellis Jennings; and one brother, Jack Roberts. Memorial
services will be scheduled at a later date. Online condolences may be
sent to www.gentryfifefuneralhome.com. 
 
Gentry-Fife Funeral Home 

LUELLA LORD 

SAN ANGELO — Luella Lord, 89, of San Angelo passed away Saturday,
Nov. 27, 2004, in San Angelo. Graveside service will be at 2 p.m.,
Friday, Dec. 3, in Llano Cemetery in Amarillo, Texas. Luella was born
Nov. 22, 1915, in Schlewieg, Iowa. She worked for J.C. Penney in
Amarillo and San Angelo for 35 years. Luella was preceded in death by
her parents; her husband Robert Carpenter Lord; one son Dr. Ralph
Lord; and one brother Ralph Burk. She is survived by her loving
family, daughter Karen Cline of San Angelo; granddaughter Susan Cline
of San Angelo; daughter-in-law Paula Lord of Austin; grandson David
Lord and his wife Jenine of Austin; granddaughter Leslie Walters and
her husband John of Austin; sister Mrs. Carmen Frahm of Denison,
Iowa; sister-in-law Ramola Burk of Henderson, Nev.; five great-
grandchildren; four nieces; four nephews; and special friend Arnie
Aguero of San Angelo. In lieu of flowers, spend time with someone who
needs you. 
 
Johnson’s Funeral Home 

CECIL BURTON JOHNSON

SAN ANGELO — Cecil Burton Johnson died on Tuesday, Nov. 30, 2004. He
was born in Moody, Texas, on Nov. 15, 1916, the eldest son of Jeff
and Una Johnson, and moved to Veribest, Texas, in 1927 where he lived
for many years before moving to San Angelo. He was preceded in death
by his wife of 56 years, Lorene Reed Johnson; and two brothers,
Claude and Clayton Johnson. He is survived by his sister, Clydia
Prosise; and three children, Janice and her husband, Bruce Henrickson
of Houston, Texas, Helen and her husband, Bobby Hultquist, of
Victoria, Texas, and Cecil B. Johnson and his wife, Rebecca, of San
Angelo, Texas. He has six grandchildren who all knew him as “Pete,”
Scott Walker, Jennifer Walker, Melissa Proctor, Shawn Hultquist, Seth
Johnson and Reed Johnson. He also had nine great-grandchildren,
Brooke, Kendall, Maddy and Gracie Walker, Barclay, William and Fred
Proctor, and Garrett and Caitlin Hultquist, as well as numerous
nieces and nephews. Cecil lived in Veribest where he and his brother,
Claude, owned and operated the Johnson Brothers’ Gin, and became
known for his ability to play a great game of dominoes. He was an
active member of the Veribest Baptist Church and then College Hills
Baptist Church after moving into San Angelo. In recent years, he
lived in Rio Concho Manor and Riverside Healthcare, where he became
friends to many and endeared to everyone who knew him. He will be
missed by all who knew him, as he lovingly called everyone “Pete” or
“Suzie.” The funeral service will be at 10 a.m. Thursday, Dec. 2, at
Johnson’s Funeral Home with the Rev. J.B. Bitner officiating.
Interment will be in Miles Cemetery. 
 
Johnson’s Funeral Home 


December 2 

JAMES MICHAEL HOLSTER 

SAN ANGELO — James Michael Holster, 47, of San Angelo died Friday,
Nov. 26, 2004, in a local hospital. Rosary will be recited at 7 p.m.
Thursday, Dec. 2, in Johnson’s Funeral Home Chapel. Funeral Mass will
be at 10 a.m. Friday, Dec. 3, at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church. Burial
will follow in Calvary Cemetery. James was born Sept. 18, 1957, in
San Angelo and was a lifetime resident. He graduated from high school
in Hawaii and attended Southwestern College in San Diego and also
Angelo State University. He was employed by Kinney’s Shoe Corp. for
nine years and with the IRS as a revenue officer for eight years.
Survivors include his mother Betty V. Brown of San Angelo; stepfather
W.E. Brown of San Angelo; grandmother Paula Enriquez of San Angelo;
sister Christine Crow and husband James of Fort Worth and their
daughter Victoria; aunt Jane Rodgers and husband Kaywood of Oregon;
and uncle Tony Enriquez and wife Cecilia of San Angelo. Pallbearers
will be Steve Rodgers, Christopher Enriquez, Roy Duran, Joe Hogeda,
Jr., Manuel Mata and Robert Villescaz. The family wishes to express a
special thanks to all the staff on the fourth floor at Shannon
Medical Center. 
 
Johnson’s Funeral Home 

KATHY BAUER BYRD 

SAN ANGELO — Kathy Bauer Byrd, 51, of San Angelo left this world
Monday, Nov. 29, 2004, to join her Heavenly Father’s band of Angels
after a sudden illness. 
Born Kathy Gayle Bauer on Dec. 28, 1952, in Brady, Texas, to Emil
Hugh Bauer and Velma Guthrie Bauer, Kathy grew up in Brady and Big
Lake before Hugh and Velma settled in San Angelo for Kathy’s school
years. Kathy graduated from Lake View High School in 1971. A loving
wife, a devoted mother and a friend to all she knew, Kathy will be
missed terribly by all. 

Kathy was preceded in death by both her parents Hugh and Velma Bauer. 

Kathy is survived by her husband Lonnie Byrd and son James Martin,
both of San Angelo; stepdaughter Marlissa Valenzuela; James’ father
and wife, John Scott and Laura Martin of Brownwood; mother-in-law
Nancy Cox of San Angelo; sisters-in-law and husbands, Eloise and
Lonnie Melton of Llano and Johnnie and Ricky Ward of Clinton, Okla.;
numerous nieces and nephews; and a wealth of friends. 

Graveside service will be at 2 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 2, in Resthaven
Cemetery in Brady, Texas, with Buddy Trull officiating. 


 
Johnson’s Funeral Home 


December 3 

RICHARD MURPHY 

SAN ANGELO — Richard Murphy, 37, of San Angelo passed away
Wednesday, Dec. 1, 2004, in San Angelo. He was born Nov. 13, 1967, in
San Angelo to Robert Raymond Murphy and Betty Sue Kidwell Murphy.
Funeral service will be at 11 a.m. Friday, Dec. 3, at Johnson’s
Funeral Home Chapel with Brother Charles Beale, Brother Ron Patterson
and Brother Dusty Daniel officiating. Interment will follow in
Lawnhaven Memorial Gardens. Pallbearers will be Bobby Murphy, Brandon
Murphy, Derek Shropshire, Donny Murphy, Micheal Murphy and Shannon
Murphy. Honorary pallbearers will be Josh Murphy, Lucas Murphy, Sam
Murphy and Brian Murphy. Richard was preceded in death by his
paternal grandparents, Wesley and Lizzie Murphy; and maternal
grandfather, Willie Kidwell. Richard is survived by his parents,
Robert Raymond and Betty Sue Murphy of San Angelo; brothers and
sisters, Robert “Ray” Murphy and wife Charlene of Sweetwater, Sherry
Preas and husband Ricky of Bangs, Billy Don Murphy and wife Taree of
Grape Creek, Janie Leifeste of San Angelo, Norman Murphy and wife
Sharon of San Angelo, Lisa Shropshire and husband Steve of Grape
Creek, Donna Rohmfeld and husband Glenn of Wall, and Milton Murphy of
San Angelo; grandmother, Velma Kidwell of Leakey, Texas; 21 nieces
and nephews; 13 great-nieces and great-nephews; and numerous aunts,
uncles and cousins. The entire Murphy family would like to extend a
very special thank you to the Shannon Medical Center, SCCI Staff, San
Angelo Community Hospital, West Texas Medical Center and the San
Angelo Paramedics. 
 
Johnson’s Funeral Home 

RAYMOND RALPH McSHAN 

BALLINGER — Raymond Ralph McShan, 93, died Saturday, Nov. 27, 2004,
at Heritage House Nursing Home in San Angelo. Raymond was born on
April 3, 1911, in Runnels County to William Ralph and Mary “Gray”
McShan. Prior to retirement, he was an automotive mechanic in
Ballinger and San Angelo for many years and had worked for Rogers
Machine Shop in San Angelo for 12 years. Raymond was preceded in
death by his wife, Claudia Smith in April 1939 and Virginia Pittmon
in August 1985; daughter, Janet Rae Tinsley in 1970; son, Gary P.
McShan in November 2003; and a grandson, Mark Wayne Tinsley in
December 1991. He is survived by his granddaughters, Leslie Kay and
her husband, Mark Cutright, and their three children, of Lubbock;
Shannon Gayle and her husband, Steven Denzer, and their three
children and two grandchildren, of Tennessee; and grandson, Gary
Wayne McShan of San Angelo. Caretaker and grandson Wayne McShan would
like to give a heartfelt thanks to Heritage House and Dr. Chang along
with a special thanks to VistaCare of San Angelo, especially nurse
Shannon Bowles, for their humane and compassionate care given to
Raymond during his final days. In lieu of flowers, donations may be
made to Vista Care of San Angelo or a favorite charity. Viewing and
visitation with family and friends will be at 10 a.m. Saturday, Dec.
4, at the funeral home. Graveside service will follow at 11 a.m. in
Evergreen Cemetery in Ballinger with the Rev. Ferris Akins
officiating. 
 
Rains-Seale Funeral Home 

PAULINE COLE FLETCHER 

BALLINGER — Pauline Cole Fletcher, 94, was born on Dec. 16, 1909, to
Hubert E. and Suzy Cothran. She married Maxie J. Cole in 1928, and
spent most of her life in Ballinger in the restaurant business. She
passed away on Friday, Nov. 26, 2004, in Shannon Medical Center in
San Angelo. She was preceded in death by her husbands, Maxie Cole and
Kenneth Fletcher; and a grandson, Doug Cole. “Granny” is survived by
her sons, Maxie J. Cole and wife Mary of San Antonio, and Wayne Cole
and wife Helen of Ballinger; grandchildren, Leslie Stegal and husband
Larry, Kelly Watkins, Laurie Ryan and husband Mike, Tracy Ogle and
husband Danny, and Steve Cole; great-grandchildren, David,
Christopher, Apryll, Joe, Shelby, Brittany, Brooke, Peyton, Spencer,
Ryan, Hayden and Kimberly; two great-great-grandchildren; brothers,
Doyle Cothran and L.D. Cothran; sisters, Juanita Ward and Nettie Sue
Hughes; along with several nieces and nephews. In lieu of flowers,
the family requests memorials be made to your favorite charity.
Memorial service will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 4, in Rains-
Seale Funeral Home Chapel with Lynn Smith officiating. 
 
Rains-Seale Funeral Home 


December 4 

DAVID HORTON HOWELL 

SAN ANGELO — David Horton Howell, age 86, passed away in St. John’s
division of Shannon Hospital on Thursday, Dec. 2, 2004. Funeral
service is scheduled in the Chapel of First Baptist church at 10 a.m.
on Saturday, Dec. 4, with Dr. Kyle Reese officiating. Burial will be
in the family plot at 2 p.m. Dec. 5 in Olton, Texas. 
Horton was born to K.W. and Laura Howell in Hedley, Texas on Dec.
27, 1917. He attended public school in Brownfield and graduated from
Texas Tech in 1938. He was married to Evelyn Meekma on July 9, 1939. 

He taught vocational agriculture in Post, Texas, and in Meadow,
Texas, and then went into farming at Lockney, Texas, where they lived
for 30 years. 

They moved to Fort Worth where he was a traffic coordinator at DFW
until his retirement. 

He has been a Christian since early childhood and a member of the
Baptist church since he was seven years old. He is a member of First
Baptist Church, San Angelo, Texas, and of the Caleb Sunday school
class. 

He has been active in Baptist work serving as a deacon, Sunday
School Superintendent, area Brotherhood president and trustee at
Wayland Baptist College for nine years. 

He and his wife moved to Baptist Memorials in 1988. 

He is survived by his wife of 65 years, Evelyn. Also surviving are
three sons and one daughter. David Howell and his wife Flo of San
Angelo, Jim and his wife Merilyn of Pampa and Ken and his wife Jeanne
of Weatherford; and his daughter Carol and her husband Greg Smith of
Red Oak, Texas. Also surviving are 12 grandchildren and 10 great-
grandchildren. 

He was preceded in death by his parents; and three brothers, Hyatt
who died in infancy, Weldon and Harlan; and by one sister, Margaret
Taylor. 

Honorary pallbearers will be the Caleb Sunday school class. 

 
Johnson’s Funeral Home 


December 5 

MARGREAT V. WILKERSON 

Margreat V. (Paul) Wilkerson, 78, of San Angelo passed away
Wednesday, December 1, 2004, in San Angelo. She was born October 19,
1926, in Bangs, Texas, to W.A. Paul and Maggie L. Rheal Paul. She
married Kimbrel Millard Wilkerson on May 5, 1945, in San Angelo; he
preceded her in death in 1982. She worked throughout her life and
retired as a LVN. 
Margreat was preceded in death by one grandson, Mathew. 

Margreat is survived by two daughters, Kimbrel Wilson of San Angelo
and Sherry Marshall of San Angelo; three grandchildren, Michele
Batten, Terri Wilson and Douglas Wilson; one great-grandchild,
Brandon Batten, and numerous nieces and nephews. 

Graveside service will be 11 a.m. Monday, December 6, 2004 at
Fairmount Cemetery with Father Bob Hedges officiating. 


 
Johnson’s Funeral Home 

DOLORES A. HERNANDEZ 

Dolores A. Soto Hernandez, age 90, passed away on Friday, December
3, 2004, at her residence. 
Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Monday at Mary Magdalene
Catholic Church in Floydada, Texas. Burial will follow at Floydada
Cemetery. Arrangements made by Robert Massie Funeral Home. 

Mrs. Hernandez was born to Santos Moses Adame and Luz Soto on April
4, 1914 in Mathis, Texas. She was married to Apolonio Hernandez on
August 3, 1931 in Bryan, Texas. She is preceded in death by her
husband; brothers, Anastancio, Benjamin, Moses, Lupe and Mateo Adame;
sisters, Petra, Adelita, Elvira and Benancia Adame. 

She is survived by her sons, Tomas Hernandez and wife Virginia of
Floydada, Noberto Hernandez of Floydada, Lorenzo Hernandez Sr. of San
Angelo, and Santos Hernandez and wife Rosa of Floydada; daughters,
Noberta Flores and husband Jesse of Bryan, Angelita Ramirez and
husband Francisco of Amarillo, Luz A. Hernandez of San Angelo, and
Rosa Perez of San Angelo; thirty-nine grandchildren; numerous great-
grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren; and adopted children,
Marcelo Lara, Dominga Barra and Jose Hernandez. 

Pallbearers, all grandsons, are Tomas Hernandez Jr., Larry
Hernandez, Santos Hernandez Jr., Raymundo Martinez Jr., Ishmael
Flores and Francisco Ramirez Jr. 

The family would like to send a special thank you to Marisol Torres
and Jenny, Shannon and Sharon from Vista Care Hospice. 

Mrs. Hernandez’s obituary may be viewed online at
www.RobertMassie.com. 


 
Robert Massie Funeral Home 

JOHN EARNEST McCLEERY 

SAN ANGELO — John Earnest McCleery, 87, of San Angelo passed away
Saturday, December 4, 2004, in San Angelo. He was born October 21,
1917, in Erath County to Robert A. McCleery and Victoria Jane Wagner
McCleery. He married Nora Mae Wall on May 24, 1939, in San Angelo.
John worked 42 dedicated years at Gandy’s Creamery as a manager,
where he retired, and worked for no pay at the Double Eagle Carwash
on Ave. L for another 25 years. He always deeply enjoyed playing with
all the grandchildren who affectionately knew him as “Tadpole.” 
John was preceded in death by his parents; one brother, Fred
McCleery; and his loving wife, Nora Mae Wall McCleery. 

John is survived by his son, Sherryl McCleery and his wife, De, of
San Angelo; two daughters, Vicki Price of San Angelo, and Wanda Cason
and husband Rod of Nikiski, Ala.; six grandchildren, Billy Price and
wife Toni, Donnie Lankford and wife Tiffany, Susen Derrick and
husband Chris, Michelle Krieg and husband Michael, Brad Cason and
wife Katie, and Clay Cason and wife Jackie; eleven great-
grandchildren; brothers, Glen McCleery and wife Ailene of Corpus
Christi, Willie McCleery of Victoria, and Wesley McCleery and wife
Peggy of Lubbock; and sister, Annie Ruth Payne and husband Leslie of
Ruidoso, N.M. 

Graveside services will be 2 p.m. Monday, December 6, 2004, at
Lawnhaven Memorial Gardens with Brad Cason officiating. 


 
Johnson’s Funeral Home 

VERA ELIZABETH ALLBRIGHT 

BALLINGER — Vera Elizabeth Allbright, 99, of Ballinger, died
Thursday, Dec. 2, 2004, in San Angelo Community Medical Center. 
Vera was born on April 14, 1905, in San Saba County, Texas, to Simon
Richard and Sara Ann Hayes Cochran. She was a graduate of Live Oak
School near Eden. 

She entered the school of nursing at the old Halley-Love Sanatorium
in Ballinger where she received her registered nursing degree in
1927. She was in the nursing profession for over 60 years prior to
her retirement. 

She married John Elwood Allbright on Aug. 27, 1928, in Ballinger. 

Vera was a member of the First Christian Church of Ballinger, a
member of the Eastern Star for over 75 years, charter member of the
Ballinger Garden Club and a member of AARP. 

She was preceded in death by her husband, John on Sept. 26, 1993;
two sisters; and two brothers. 

She is survived by her son David Allbright and wife Ruby of
Ballinger; daughter Mary Bailey and husband Bill of San Angelo;
grandchildren, Lee Allbright and wife Elizabeth of Albuquerque, N.M.,
Charles Allbright and wife Cathleen of Keller, Texas, Andrea
Allbright of Hurst, Texas, William Bailey and wife Tina of Little
Elm, Texas and John Bailey and wife Kathy of Clear Lake, Texas; eight
great-grandchildren; and sister Beatrice Needham of Pensacola, Fla. 

Family visitation will be from 6 to 7 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 4, at the
funeral home. 

Funeral service will be at 2 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 5, at First Christian
Church with Lynn Smith officiating, with burial to follow in
Evergreen Cemetery. 

Memorials may be made to the charity of choice. 


 
Rains-Seale Funeral Home 

ROBERT JAMES BARTHOLOMEO 

SAN ANGELO — Robert James Bartholomeo, 26 years old, passed away
suddenly at his home in Mastic, N.Y., on Saturday, November 27, 2004.
He was born to Valerie Bartholomeo and the late Robert Anderson on
Dec. 26, 1977. 
Robert was seven feet tall with a heart just as big, especially when
it came to his family and his dogs. He loved spending time with his
nieces and nephews, Jaqueline, Eric and Jacob, when he came to Texas.
He always had a special place in his heart for his mom and
grandparents. 

He was preceded in death by his father, Robert Anderson. 

He is survived by his mother, Valerie Bartholomeo; brother, Dennis
Kramer; sister, June Garcia and husband Eric; niece, Jaqueline;
nephews, Eric and Jacob Garcia; grandparents, Albert and June
Bartholomeo; aunts and uncles, Frank and Kay Bartholomeo, Christine
Duffy, Steven Bartholomeo and Diane Bartholomeo; cousins, Shannon,
Rusty, Nick, Joseph and Nicole; his fiancé and best friend, Amy
Warren; and godchildren, Colin and Leah. 

A family service will be held at 10 a.m. Monday, Dec. 6, at Holy
Angels Catholic Church. 


 
 

DOROTHY MARIE BURLESON 

JUNCTION — On Dec. 2, 2004, the Lord sent his Angel of Mercy and
Kindness to grant our mother, nana, aunt and friend Dorothy Marie
(Murr) Burleson, peace at last. She is survived by her daughter,
Melissa Murr Ramos; grandsons, Nick, Joshua and Zachary Ramos; two
nieces, Tony Frady and Kay Mason; and one nephew, James Keith
Coleman. 
Dorothy was born in Jena, La., on April 23, 1923, to Mabel Ethel and
William Green Coleman. She graduated in 1940 from Jena High School
where she was named valedictorian. Dorothy completed her bachelor’s
degree from Louisiana State College in January of 1944 and her
master’s degree in August of 1957. She married Charles Ernest Murr on
May 27, 1945, and had two children, David Charles and Melissa Ann.
Charles Ernest preceded her in death in 1970. 

David preceded her in death in 1982. Dorothy married Gamewell David
Burleson on September 8, 1981. G.D. preceded her in death in 1996. 

Dorothy taught high school English for 28 of her 37 years of
teaching. She was voted favorite teacher and teacher of the year. 

Dorothy will be remembered by her students for her dedication to
their success and for those “never-ending” vocabulary tests. 

Dorothy became a Christian at an early age and served the Lord by
singing in the choir as a member of First Baptist Church in Junction
and the Trinity Baptist Church in Kerrville. She continued in choir
at the Inn at Los Patios in San Antonio. 

Dorothy was a very special mother and nana. She loved to tease her
grandchildren with her humor and wit and could be seen inner-tubing
down the river or showing them how to shoot a basketball. Her love
showed for them in everything she did. There were always hugs and
cookies at nana’s house. She was a patient and loving mother who was
devoted to raising her children to succeed in life. 

She is best remembered by her smile, her gentle ways, and her
encouragement to those around her. Dorothy will be missed in every
way, but we are thankful she is with the Lord and know she is now our
angel watching over us all. We love you, mom, nana. 


 
Gentrey-Fife Funeral Home 


December 6 

ALLIE HALBERT ASKEW 

ELDORADO — Allie Halbert Askew was born on March 31, 1914, in
Eldorado, Texas. Her parents, Robert and Battie Halbert, were pioneer
ranchers. She went to be with her Lord on Saturday, Dec. 4, 2004.
Service will be at 3 p.m. Monday, Dec. 6, at First United Methodist
Church of Sonora with burial to follow in Sonora Cemetery. Allie was
raised on ranches, following her daddy around from the time she was a
little girl. She grew to love the land and her polled Hereford
cattle. She remained active in ranching interests until the time of
her death. In 1999, she was recognized as one of the pioneer ranching
women of Sutton County. After attending public school in Sonora, she
graduated from Southern Methodist University, where she met and
married Clifford McBride, who preceded her in death. As a widow, she
returned to the ranch to make a living for herself and her three
children. She married Vestel Askew on Jan. 19, 1959. Vestel and Allie
celebrated their 45th anniversary this past January. Allie was a
longtime member of the First United Methodist Church of Sonora. She
was also a proud member of the Texas Sheep and Goat Raisers
Association, the American and Texas Polled Hereford Associations and
the American Cancer Society. One of her great joys was playing bridge
with her dear friends. Allie paraphrased Romans 12:9-16 in this way,
“Count the day lost in which you have not done something for others.”
All who knew and loved her know that she lived every day by that
motto. She was always one of the first to help a friend in need, and,
in turn, appreciated help she received from her many friends. Whether
you knew her as My Best Girl, Mama, Granny, Aunt Snooks, Allie,
friend or neighbor, you knew that you had found a special person in
Allie. She was preceded in death by her parents; her beloved sister,
Bobbie Fawcett; as well as other family members and dear friends who
were waiting to reunite with her. She leaves behind her husband,
Vestel Askew of Sonora; son and daughter-in-law, Robert Michael and
Frances McBride of Stephenville; son, Joel Patrick McBride of
Guadalajara, Mexico; daughter and son-in-law, Linda and Glen Fisher
of Sonora; step-son, Guy Askew of Von Ormy, Texas; grandson, Clifford
McBride of Waco; granddaughter, Tammy Fisher of Washington, D.C.;
grandson, David Fisher and his wife, Stacy, of Spring Branch;
granddaughter, Melissa Hennesey and her husband, David; and niece,
Randee Fawcett and her husband, Bobby Doran, of Sonora. The pride and
joy of her last two years of life was her great-granddaughter,
Madalyn Ann Fisher. Pallbearers will be Buck Bloodworth, Bert
Bloodworth, Lee Bloodworth, Dick Byrd, Bob Byrd Jr., Mike Byrd, Jimmy
Condra, Dan E. Reinhart, J.T. Hill, Eddie Sawyer, Doyle Morgan, Dick
McMillan and Billy Martin. The family requests any memorials to be
made to The American Cancer Society or the First United Methodist
Church of Sonora. 

 
Kerbow Funeral Homes 

RONNY ALLAN REED 

Johnson’s Funeral Home

HELEN RUTH FAY 

ELDORADO — Helen Ruth “Ms. Helen” Fay, 62, went to be with Our Lord
at 6:40 a.m. Friday, Dec. 3, 2004. 
Service will be at 11 a.m. Monday, Dec. 6, at the First Baptist
Church in Eldorado with the Rev. Henry Green, minister of the St.
Luke Baptist Church, officiating. Burial will be in Eldorado
Cemetery. 

Helen was born July 26, 1942, to Josh and Dorothy Hastings Sr.; both
preceded her in death. She married Richard Tony Fay on Sept. 16,
1956, and had five children. Tony preceded her in death on Oct. 29,
1982. 

Helen owned and operated her own beauty shop for in excess of forty
years. She enjoyed being a cosmetologist; she established lifetime
friendships with most of her clients. 

She had a special relationship with God and was prepared for
everlasting life. She rededicated her life to Christ on Oct. 31,
2004. 

Everything Helen did was centered around her family. She loved
family gatherings where we would just sit, talk and laugh together.
She was most proud of the fact that, to date, all of her
grandchildren have graduated from Eldorado High School. Education was
very important to Helen; she received her GED later in her adult
life. 

Survivors include two sons, Larry Fay of San Antonio, and Floyd Fay
and wife Martha of Eldorado; three daughters, Shirley Pina and
husband Orlando of Houston, Angela Redish and husband Mack of
Eldorado, and Dora Nance and husband Keith of Eldorado;
grandchildren, Andre Fay and wife Veronica, Christina Redish, Michael
Redish, Tony Fay, Jordan Fay, John Fay, Mayra Bustos, Jorge Bustos
and Eloy Bustos; two great-grandsons, Jesse and Michael Fay; sisters,
Rosetta Lozano of Eldorado, Jean Speaers of Fort Worth and Agnes
Payne of Ozona; sisters-in-law, Elizabeth Fay and Inez Fay, both of
Fort Worth, Francis Hill of Georgetown and Lucille Mitchell of
California; brother, Josh Hastings and wife Cora of Eldorado;
brothers-in-law, Owen Fay of San Angelo, Pete Fay of Mount Vernon,
Wash., and Adam Fay of Fort Worth; several special nephews and
nieces; and Louise Mendez, a very special friend. 


 
Kerbow Funeral Home 

CARL “BILL” SPENCER MORSE 

SAN ANGELO — Carl “Bill” Spencer Morse Sr., 83, of San Angelo died
Friday, December 3, 2004, at his residence. 
Visitation will be from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. today in Johnson’s Funeral
Home. 

Service will be 10 a.m. Monday at First Presbyterian Church with
Rev. Ron Sutto officiating. Burial will follow in Lawnhaven Memorial
Gardens. Pallbearers will be Cleave Pool, Jack Pool, Joe Hoelle, Edde
Elliott, Bill Pool, David Bailey, Raymond Torres and Herbert Torres. 

Mr. Morse was born November 5, 1921, in Houston, Texas, to Spencer
Morse and Daisey Driver Morse. Bill married Verna Joan Dalager on
October 20, 1956, in Alamo, Texas. 

Bill served in the United States Air Force during World War II, and
later served in the security department with the Civil Service
Department at Goodfellow Air Force Base. He retired from Keyno
Contractors in 1992. Mr. Morse graduated from the University of Texas
in 1949 and attended graduate school at Trinity University in San
Antonio. He was a deacon at First Presbyterian Church for many years.
Bill was preceded in death by his parents; an identical twin brother,
Bob Morse, in 1987; and his mother and father-in-law, Clarence and
Lenora Dalager. 

Survivors include his wife, Verna Joan Morse of San Angelo; four
sons, Carl Morse Jr. of Austin, Scott Morse and wife Lisa of
Arlington, Greg Morse and wife Tracey of Arlington, and Brad Morse
and wife Jacque of Fort Worth; and grandchildren, Carl Spencer III,
Harlon, Kylie, Katelyn, Meredith, Mallory, Logan, Hudson, Brad Jr.
and Marilyn Morse. 



 
Johnson’s Funeral Home 

ALTA MAE MILLER DUTTON 

JUNCTION — On Friday, Dec. 3, 2004, God suddenly and gently called
Alta Mae Miller Dutton to Himself. Funeral service will be held on
Monday, Dec. 6, at the First United Methodist Church in Rocksprings.
Pallbearers will be longtime friends, Gene Graham, Raymond Custer,
Sam Shanklin, Marty Graham, Charles Carson and Jake Shanklin.
Honorary pallbearers are Bill Mitchell, Allan Dunbar, Jimmy Rudasill
and Bill Seales. 
Alta was born on Dec. 29, 1933, to James Alton Miller and Emma Mae
Hodges Miller at the Miller’s home in Rocksprings. On Nov. 17, 1951,
she married her husband, Vernon Claude Dutton, who survives his
devoted wife. 

Also surviving are their two children, Jackie Dutton Dunbar and
husband Larry of Rocksprings, and Cody Miller Dutton of Boerne. Alta
and Vernon always enjoyed their six grandchildren, Tonya Dunbar
Netting and husband Mike from Robert Lee, Tyann Dunbar Townsend and
husband Joe of Houston, Ned Allen Dunbar of San Angelo, and Kyle
Hodges Dutton, Tyler Hall Dutton and Stran Miller Dutton, all of
Boerne. Four great-grandchildren were an added delight. They are
Makenna, Bridger Lee and Tori Netting, all of Robert Lee, and Jacob
Lynne Townsend of Houston. Alta’s sister is Mary Elizabeth Knowles
and her husband, Ronny, of Ignacio, Colo. Alta’s mother-in-law is
Velma Dutton of Junction. Alta will be missed by numerous nieces and
nephews, and countless friends. 

Throughout her active life, Alta had many interests. She loved
people, the ranching industry, history, and was always civic minded. 

In 2002, she was a true representative as Old Settler’s Queen. She
was a proud member of the Methodist church, the 1949 Miss Mohair,
twice Worthy Matron of the order of Eastern Star, Chairperson of the
Board of Directors of Peoples State Bank, member of the Historical
Society, served the Woman’s Club, Devil’s Sinkhole Society, and was
honored to belong to the daughters of the republic of Texas. When she
worked 25 years as secretary for the school superintendent, Alta
considered each student as her special child, attending their games
and activities. 

Husband Vernon gives praise for a “wonderful wife” of 53 years. 

Online condolences may be made to www.gentryfifefuneralhome.com. 


 
Gentry-Fife Funeral Home 

J. D. BROWN 

OZONA — J. D. Brown, age 85, passed away at San Angelo Community
Medical Center on Friday, Dec. 3, 2004, after a brief illness. 
Funeral service will be at 11 a.m. Wednesday, Dec. 8, at the Ozona
United Methodist Church with burial in Cedar Hill Cemetery. 

J.D. was born to John J. and Paralee Medart Brown on Sept. 5, 1919,
in Lometa, Texas. He was a graduate of Lometa High School and
Draughon’s Business College in Austin, Texas. J.D. married Lillian
Godwin on Dec. 25, 1937, in Gatesville, Texas. They resided in Lometa
and moved to Grand Prairie, Texas, in 1941. He worked at North
American Aviation as an airplane construction worker during World War
II. After the war was over, he opened Grand Prairie Trading Post, a
new and used furniture business. While in Grand Prairie, he was
elected to the city council and was mayor pro-tem for two terms. In
1965, he and Lillian leased and then later bought Brown Furniture in
Ozona, Texas. He was a member of the chamber of commerce of both
Grand Prairie and Ozona for all his business life. After moving to
Ozona, he and Lillian were members of Levis and Lace Square Dance
Club, serving as president for two separate terms. He was a member of
the Ozona United Methodist Church. 

J.D. is survived by his wife of eight years, Pauline Johnson Brown;
two daughters, Dr. Anita Salomonsky and husband Louis of Richmond,
Va., and Judy Hutcherson and husband John of Fredericksburg, Texas;
12 grandchildren; 13 great-grandchildren; and one cousin, Edna Ruth
Cowan of Taylor, Texas. 

He was preceded in death by his parents; one brother; one sister;
and his wife of 58 years, Lillian Godwin Brown. 

The family request memorials be made to Hospice of San Angelo or a
charity of choice. 


 
 

ENA MARGARET TALBOTT 

Ballinger - Ena Margaret Talbott of Lubbock passed away December 3,
2004, at her residence in Lubbock. The funeral will be at 4:30 p.m.
today at Rains-Seale Funeral Home in Ballinger with the Rev. Ferris
Akins officiating. Burial will be in Old Runnels Cemetery.
Pallbearers will be Michael West, Ryan West, Jim Crawford, Marvin
Gerhart, Therin Osborne and Brian Childs. Honorary pallbearers will
be Mitchell West and David Talbott. 
Ena was born to Robert Talbott and Thora West Talbott on November 4,
1914, in Miles, Texas. She graduated from Miles High School and
Draughon’s Business School. She spent the majority of her life as an
administrative assistant to school administrators in the Ballinger
Independent School District and the Lubbock Independent School
District. 

The family would like to express deep and sincere appreciation for
the loving care afforded to Ena by her caregivers: Marge and Don
Scholer, Rhonda Washington, Alana Lawrence, Vanessa Olivarez, Tina
Trevino, Carolyn Allen, Ruby Brackett; faithful visitors June
Clayton, Ruth Hindeman, Ann Sanders and John Ballard; and Hospice of
Lubbock. 



 
Rains-Seale Funeral Home 


December 7 

NATO G. PENA 

SAN ANGELO — Nato G. Pena Jr., 88, died Saturday, Dec. 4, 2004, at
his residence. Graveside service will be at 2 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 7,
in Lawnhaven Memorial Gardens. Survivors include his wife, Melilia
Pena; sons, “Bob” Pena, George Pena, Raul Ramirez and Alfredo
Ramirez; daughters, Oralia Ruiz, Ernestine Ruiz, Norma Ybarra, Grace
Sanchez and Guadalupe Lopez; and sister, Elvira P. Aguirre. He is
survived by 13 grandchildren, 25 great-grandchildren and nine great-
great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his daughter, Elida
Del Toro, and a son-in-law, Federico Ybarra. 
JIMMY V. FLORES 

BALLINGER — On Dec. 3, 2004, Jimmy V. Flores Sr. went to be with the
Lord. He was born and raised in Ballinger. He had a deep love for
music and won many awards, including a lifetime achievement award,
playing many instruments. Jimmy was preceded in death by his first
wife, Margie P. Flores; and a son, Jimmy Flores Jr. He is survived by
his loving wife, Virginia L. Flores; two daughters, Liz Painschab and
husband Patrick of Windsted, Minn., and April Dawn Flores and fiancé
Felix Quast of Maplewood, Minn.; brother, Albert V. Flores and wife
Mary of Ballinger; sisters, Matilda Gomez of Ballinger and Juanita
Sanchez of San Angelo; sister-in-law, Hilda Bocanegra and husband
Daniel; step-children, Ruben Gallegos and wife Dalia of San Angelo,
Jessica Gallegos of San Angelo and Jackie Gallegos of San Angelo; and
nine grandchildren, Patricia Painschab, Ryan Painschab, Logan
Painschab, Lauren Painschab, Justin Flores, Ethan Quast, Aeden Quast,
Amaya Ochoa and Gabby Gallegos. 
Rosary will be at 7 p.m. Monday, Dec. 6, at Rains-Seale Funeral Home. 

Mass of Christian burial will be at 10 a.m. Tuesday, Dec. 7, at St.
Mary Catholic Church in Ballinger with the Rev. Louis Moeller
presiding. Burial will follow in Evergreen Cemetery. Pallbearers will
be Daniel Bocanegra, Juan Cuellar, Albert Flores Jr., Billy Sanchez,
Ace Arteage and Tony Flores. Honorary pallbearers will be members of
his band “La Formula,” Bobby, Issac, Peter, Paul and Frank. 



 
Rains-Seale Funeral Home 

JAMES “JAKE” ELY FREEMAN 

ROSWELL, N.M. — Graveside service is scheduled for 2 p.m. Friday,
Dec. 10, 2004, for James Ely “Jake” Freeman, 96, who passed away
Saturday, Dec. 4, at Casa Maria Health Care Center. Pastor Phil
Grassie of First Christian Church will officiate in South Park
Cemetery. Jake was born March 5, 1908, in Kennard, Texas. His
parents, Mr. and Mrs. Richard Freeman, have preceded him in death, as
well as his wife, Noreen Freeman, and his granddaughter, Tina Lea
Dacy. He is survived by his son, James Taylor Freeman of Dallas,
Texas; one sister, Lorene Young and family of Dallas, Texas; his
daughter, Sandra Dacy and husband Wayne of Roswell, N.M.; his
granddaughter, Melisa Rapstine and husband Wes; and two great-
grandsons, Michael and Colton Rapstine of Granite Shoals, Texas. His
very special companion, Wilda Brown of Roswell, N.M., and her sons,
David Brown and wife Kathy of Centreville, Va., and Jimmy Brown of
Odessa, Texas, also survive him. Mr. Freeman was raised in San
Angelo, Texas; he was a contractor in the early years of his life. He
built airports and highways, plus commercial buildings. While in San
Angelo, he was an estimator and superintendent for J.D. Burk Company.
In 1976, he retired from contracting and moved to Ruidoso, N.M., to
work as an estimator for his son-in-law’s construction company. He
lived in Ruidoso from 1976 to 1985. He retired in 1985 and moved to
Roswell. He was a devoted caregiver to his wife in her last days. Mr.
Freeman was a wonderful companion, father, grandfather and great-
grandfather. We will always remember him as one of the most mannerly
gentlemen and for his wonderful laughter. Honorary pallbearers are
David Brown, Jimmy Brown, Paul Dacy, Wayne Dacy, Joe Fields, Dan
Gomez, Colton Rapstine, Michael Rapstine and Wesley Rapstine.
Memorials may be made to the First Christian Church, 1500 S. Main,
Roswell, N.M., or a charity of choice. 

 
La Grone Funeral Chapel & Crematory 

CARL WILLIAM CARTER 

SAN ANGELO — Carl William Carter, 72, of Carlsbad, Texas, died
Sunday, Dec. 5, 2004, at his residence. Graveside service will be at
1 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 8, in Lawnhaven Memorial Gardens with Chaplain
Kary Rawlings with Hospice of San Angelo officiating. Carl was born
Jan. 6, 1932, in Hugo, Okla. He served in the U.S. Army for two years
in Korea and belonged to the Masonic Lodge in Van Horn, Texas. Carl
was married to Lavonda Newton on May 15, 1952, in Hobbs, N.M.
Survivors include his wife of 52 years, Lavonda Carter of Carlsbad;
three daughters, Carla Rouke of Truth or Consequences, N.M., Connie
Martin of Glen Rose, Texas, and Judy Thornton and husband Russell of
San Marcos, Texas; one sister, Jimmie Miner and husband Howard of
Odessa, Texas; one nephew, Mike Brooks and wife Dena and their
children, Michelle of Austin and Dillion of Odessa; five
grandchildren, Allison Corrales and husband Toby, George Thornton,
Rocky Rouke, Erin Rutledge and Riley Martin; and two great-
grandchildren, Alyssa and Annika Corrales. 
 
Johnson’s Funeral Home 

L B HARRIS 

VAN — Memorial service for L.B. Harris Jr., 86, of Mineola is
scheduled for 2 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 11, at Kingdom Hall with Conrad
Armstrong officiating. Mr. Harris died Saturday, Dec. 4, 2004, in
Tyler. Lawrence B. Harris Jr. was born Oct. 4, 1918, in San Angelo,
Texas, to the late Lawrence B. Harris Sr. and Verda B. Scott Harris.
He had lived in Mineola four years, moving from Pecos. He had served
in the Army Air Force, was a retired math teacher and a member of
Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witness. He was preceded in death by his
parents; brother, Charles O. Harris; and sister, Minnie Rene Gilbert.
Survivors include his wife of 57 years, Helen Brooks Harris of
Mineola; daughter, Dottie Rene Cockrell of Bartlesville, Okla.;
brother, John Scott Harris of San Angelo; granddaughter, Melanie
Cockrell Bruce of Tyler; great-grandson, Phillip Lawrence Reyes,
Tyler; and numerous nieces and nephews. If desired, memorials may be
made to Hospice of East Texas, 4111 University Blvd., Tyler, TX
75701. 

 
Hilliard Funeral Home 

JOYCE ANN SHAFFER 

SAN ANGELO — Joyce Ann Shaffer, age 61, died Monday morning, Dec. 6,
2004, at her residence. She is survived by her husband, Lonnie D.
Shaffer, and his children and their family; two double cousins and
their family; and numerous friends. Graveside service will be at noon
Thursday, Dec. 9, in Lawnhaven Memorial Gardens with the Rev. Kary
Rawlings officiating. 
 
Johnson’s Funeral Home 

RODNEY ANCEL PORTER 

SAN ANGELO — Rodney Ancel Porter, 55, of San Angelo died Sunday,
Dec. 5, 2004, in a local hospital. Graveside service will be at 10
a.m. Tuesday, Dec. 7, in Lawnhaven Memorial Gardens with Chaplain
Roger Roenfeldt with VistaCare officiating. Rodney was born April 8,
1949, in Odessa, Texas. He was preceded in death by his mother,
Dannie D. Grosshans, and stepfather, Fred Grosshans. Rodney touched
many lives. He was a good friend to those he spent time around, such
as his friends at MHMR, where he attended day habilitation, his
friends and former housemates at Mosaic’s Honeysuckle group home, his
friends at Guardianship Alliance, his friend and guardian advocate
David Brooks and all his other friends. Rodney had a strong will and
great love for life. He loved birthday parties, John Wayne movies and
ice cream. Rodney had a kind heart and was quick to greet people at
Heritage House and offer a handshake. Rodney enjoyed joking around
and getting into mischief. He will be missed and loved always.
Survivors include a cousin, Billie Tinkler of St. Peters, Mo. 

 
Johnson’s Funeral Home 


December 8 

HENRY C BUTTERY 

LLANO — Henry C. Buttery, 80, passed away peacefully on Sunday, Dec.
5, 2004, at his home in Llano, Texas, following a courageous 12-year
battle with prostate cancer. Henry was born on Sept. 27, 1924, to
Bessie (Atkins) and Henry C. Buttery in Austin, Texas. He resided in
Llano all of his life except for the period when he joined the Marine
Corps after finishing high school during World War II. The Marine
Corps first sent him to Texas A&M where he attended one year. He then
was transferred to Georgia Tech University and graduated from there
in February 1945 with a mechanical engineering degree. While at Texas
A&M and Georgia Tech he ran track, lettering at Georgia Tech. After
graduating, he reported to officer candidate school at Quantico, Va.
During that time the atomic bomb was dropped and the war was over. He
came home in 1945 with the rank of captain. The following spring he
went to work for Wheland Co. in Chattanooga, Tenn., and was there
approximately 1¤ years. When his father’s health began to fail, he
returned to Llano on Jan. 1, 1948, to help him at Buttery Hardware.
While living in Llano he met Norma Lee Wasserman, and they were
married on Feb. 18, 1951. Shortly after their marriage, he returned
to active duty due to the Korean Conflict. Norma and their first
child later joined him when he was stationed in North Carolina. Their
marriage produced four children and lasted 53 years until Norma’s
death on Feb. 16, 2004. Henry and his family returned to Llano in
1953. During the following years he grew his wholesale hardware
business from five employees to approximately 165 with his business
covering Texas and reaching into Oklahoma and New Mexico. He still
managed to find time to contribute much to the community of Llano and
received many awards, including Masonic Community Builder Award,
Llano Outstanding Citizen Award, The Hall of Fame Award and the
Humanitarian Award. He served as president of the Jaycees and the
Chamber of Commerce and was a 50-plus year member of the Lions Club.
He had an instrumental hand in creating the Llano Memorial Hospital
and later served as chairman of the board. Henry also was important
in creating and financing the Llano Community Center, and he donated
the property for the present-day Llano County Library. He helped
bring the first Savings and Loan to Llano and served as its president
for the first 10 years of its existence. He also served for several
years as chairman of the board of the Llano National Bank. Church was
very important to Henry, and he was a 69-year member of the Lutie
Watkins Memorial United Methodist Church. He especially was proud of
his Sunday School Class. Henry was a very respected man for both his
morals and the examples he set. When he became involved in a cause,
he gave it his all. His opinions and ideas were highly valued and
sought out by both family and community. He was a very wise and kind
man and will be missed by many. Survivors include daughters Brenda
Durst and husband Dusty of Llano and Jean Wallace and husband Harold
of Edmond, Okla.; sons William Buttery and wife Becky of Llano and
John Buttery and wife Angela of Llano; sister-in-law Anna Shipp and
husband Bill of Llano; six grandchildren, Travis and Troy Allen,
Kristin and Michael Wallace, Andrew and Heath Buttery; and one niece
Karla Van Item of Llano. Service will be at 3 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 9,
at the Lutie Watkins Memorial United Methodist Church in Llano. A
graveside service will follow in the Llano City Cemetery. Officiating
will be the Rev. David Griffin. In lieu of flowers, memorial
contributions can be made to the Llano Memorial Hospital, Lutie
Watkins Memorial United Methodist Church or M.D. Anderson Cancer
Center. 

 
Waldrope-Hatfield-Hawthorne Funeral Home 

THOMAS “TOMMY” J DENTON 

ABILENE — Thomas “Tommy” J. Denton, 75, died Monday, Dec. 6, 2004,
at Windcrest Alzheimer’s Care Center in Abilene. Funeral service will
be at 11 a.m. Thursday, Dec. 9, at the Elliott-Hamil Funeral Home
Chapel of Faith, 5701 Hwy 277 South, Abilene, Texas, with the Rev.
Jim Wallace officiating. Burial will be in Elliott-Hamil Garden of
Memories. The family will receive friends from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Wednesday, Dec. 8, at the funeral home. He was born to Lillie Mae
(Morgan) and John Thomas Denton on June 9, 1929, in Mereta, Texas. He
worked as a staff accountant and moved to Abilene in 1991. Tommy’s
hobby was genealogy. He was a member of the West Texas Genealogy
Society and Westminster Presbyterian Church in Abilene. He was
preceded in death by his father and a sister, Leara Smith. Survivors
include his mother, Lillie Mae Denton of Ballinger, Texas; his
lifelong friend, Walter Christen of Abilene; a brother, Dan Odell
Denton of Ballinger; several nieces and nephews; and a host of
friends. 

 
Elliott-Hamil Funeral Home 

JACK J. CONWAY 

SAN ANGELO — Jack J. Conway, 78, went to be with his Lord on Monday,
Dec. 6, 2004. He was born to John and Alice Conway on June 12, 1926,
in Boise, Idaho. A time of visitation for family and friends will be
from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Tuesday evening, Dec. 7, at Johnson’s Funeral
Home. Service will be at 11 a.m. Wednesday, Dec. 8, at First Baptist
Church with Dr. Kyle Reese and the Rev. Tom Martin officiating. Jack
went to school in Tulsa, Okla., and to Oklahoma A&M University. He
was a World War II U.S. Navy veteran. After moving to Texas, he
married Darlene Cope Conway on May 24, 1952. He was service manager
at Cleveland Motors and also owned Uncle Charlie’s Burgers & Pizza
for several years. He was a longtime member of First Baptist Church.
Jack was also a member of the Knights of the Round Table where he,
being an Eagle Scout himself, was a devoted leader for many years
with the Boy Scouts of America. He had a love of being with his
family, hunting and fishing. Jack was a kind and soft-spoken man who
had a wonderful sense of humor. Jack was preceded in death by his
parents; brothers, Erold, Bill and Ernest Conway; and a son, Douglas.
Survivors include his wife, Darlene, of 52 years; daughter, Brenda of
Belton; son, Kyle of New Hope, Pa.; granddaughters, Meagan and Kelsey
Conway of Flemington, N.J.; sisters, Annabelle Madeira and husband
Jim of Tulsa, Okla., and Barbara Phelps and husband Aaron of Catoosa,
Okla.; brothers, Gilbert of Tulsa, Okla., Bob and wife Charlotte of
Laurel, Md., and Alan and wife Delores of Chandler, Okla.; sisters-in-
law, Carolyn Ferguson and husband Leon of San Angelo, Donna Swindle
and husband Dwayne of San Angelo, Joan Conway of Edmond, Okla., and
Joanne Conway of Tulsa, Okla.; brother-in-law, Bill Kresge of San
Angelo; numerous nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews; and
a dear friend, Joe McQuire and family of Tulsa, Okla. Our thanks to
all of the caregivers who extended skill and love to us, including
the entire staffs of 5 North at Shannon Hospital and Baptist Hospice.
Our very special gift of thanks and love go to Baptist Memorial,
specifically our dear “family” of Division II. Memorials may be made
to Baptist Memorials Center. 



 
Johnson’s Funeral Home 

WILLIE LOIS DANIELS 

WINTERS — Willie Lois Daniels, 85, of Winters died Monday, Dec. 6,
2004, in a San Angelo nursing home. She was born March 5, 1919, in
Winters and lived there most of her life and was a graduate of
Winters High School. She married Watson Chester Briley in 1938; he
died in 1983. She married Bill Daniels in 1964; he died Sept. 1,
1979. She was a sales clerk for Roach Electric for 20 years and was a
member of the Church of Christ. She is survived by two sons and
daughters-in-law, W.C. and Willia Briley and Billie Joe and Elaine
Briley, all of San Angelo; and seven grandchildren and six great-
grandchildren. Service will be at 3 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 8, in
Winters Funeral Home Chapel with Max Pratt officiating. Burial will
be in Lakeview Cemetery. Pallbearers include Donnie Briley, Bo
Briley, Tom Briley, Eric Briley, Marla Wilen and Kristi Briley. 
 
Winters Funeral Home 


December 9 

VIRGIL L. SMITH 

SAN ANGELO — Virgil L. Smith, 82, a loving husband, father and Paw-
Paw, died Monday, Dec. 6, 2004, in Shannon Medical Center. Service
will be held at 4 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 9, 2004, at Johnson’s Funeral
Home Chapel with the Rev. James Mitchell and the Rev. Kevin McSpadden
officiating. Burial will be in Lawnhaven Memorial Gardens. Virgil was
born June 2, 1922, in Llano. He married Estelle Jones Sept. 6, 1947,
in Mertzon. He owned San Angelo Roller Rink for 33½ years before
retiring. He was a Navy veteran of World War II. Virgil was preceded
in death by his parents; sister Lois; and brothers, Arthur, Woodrow,
Carroll and Bobby. Survivors include his wife Estelle of San Angelo;
daughters, Linda Jennings and husband David of Weatherford and Vicki
Ramage and husband Alan of Colorado City; brothers, E.L. Smith and
wife Gladys of Midland and Albert Smith and wife Brenda of
Bridgeport; sisters, Jessie Bell and husband Gene of San Angelo and
Dorothy Phillips and husband Clivy of Houston; grandchildren, Coley
Ramage, LeeAnn Stone and husband Josh, Jason Jennings and wife
Jennifer and Jill Husbands and husband David; great-grandchildren,
Reagan Jennings and Zackary and Sara Stone; and extended family,
Carolyn, Steve and Sam McKee. Family requests memorials to the
Immanuel Baptist Church of San Angelo. 


 
Johnson’s Funeral Home 

MARIA DEL REFUGIO ‘CUCA’ CHAVEZ 

ODESSA — Maria Del Refugio “Cuca” Chavez, age 63, passed away
Saturday, Dec. 4, 2004, at Medical Center Hospital in Odessa, Texas.
She was born July 4, 1941, to Pedro and Mercedes Chavez in Sonora,
Texas. She was a teacher for Ector County Independent School
District, and a member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church. Miss Chavez
graduated from Sul Ross University. She continued to further her
education by receiving two master’s degrees from East Texas State
University. Her teacher’s certification included bilingual, early
childhood, special education, art and general elementary. Miss Chavez
began her teaching career in Eagle Pass, and then went on to teach in
Pearsall, Texas, as well as San Antonio, Texas. She retired from
Travis Elementary in Odessa. Miss Chavez’s love for teaching extended
to tutoring as well as teaching religious education classes. “Cuca”,
as she was known by most, had a great love for family, life and
friendships. She enjoyed various hobbies and was always full of life.
She was a very generous and compassionate person. One example of this
was the gift she left for others to continue to live through her
generosity of organ donation. After organ donation, it was Cuca’s
wish to be cremated. Survivors include her brothers, Jaime Chavez and
wife Andrea and Jesus Chavez and wife Elizabeth, all of Sonora,
Texas; sisters, Olga Chavez of Odessa, Maura Chavez of Chicago, Ill.,
and Llolanda C. Fonseca and husband Gregorio of Sonora, Texas; and
numerous nieces & nephews. The rosary will be recited in union with
the Novena to Our Lady of Guadalupe at 6 p.m. Friday, Dec. 10, 2004,
at St. Ann’s Catholic Church in Sonora, Texas. A Mass celebration of
her life will be held at 2:30 p. m. Saturday, Dec. 11, 2004, at St.
Ann’s Catholic Church with William DuBuisson O.M.I. officiating. Miss
Chavez’s last wishes, in lieu of flowers, was for monetary donations
to be made to the American Diabetes Association and the National
Kidney Foundation. The family of Maria Del Regugio Chavez would like
to express their sincere gratitude to the Rev. Bill and the Rev.
Frey, the Permian Basin Dialysis Center and her devoted technicians,
Odessa Medical Center Hospital, nursing staff at I.C.U. Dept., Odessa
E.M.S. Lifeline, and Drs. Oliver and Newsome. May God continue to
bless everyone who helped during her illness. 

 
Hubbard-Kelly Funeral Home 

BARBARA C. BREISACHER 

OZONA — Barbara C. Breisacher, 92 years, went home to be with our
Lord at 3:10 p.m. on Monday, Dec. 6, 2004, in the Crockett County
Care Center. Service will be at 2 p.m. on Sunday, Dec. 12, 2004, at
Our Lady of Perpetual Help in Ozona with the Rev. Serafin Avendio
officiating. Burial with be in the Cedar Hills Cemetery. Barbara was
born in New York City, on April 22, 1912, to Michael and Theresa
Marx. They both preceded her in death; along with her sisters and
their husbands, Betty and Fred Apers, Eva and Ted Hoffman and Anna
and John Bahr. She married Daniel Breisacher in May 1960. They both
resided in Maine and Key West, Fla., until his death Nov. 12, 1986.
Survivors include her two daughters. Terry Adams and husband Jack of
Ozona and Elaine Hussen of Chevy Chase, Md.; six grandchildren and
their husbands and wives, Kathy and Westley Bracamontes of Arlington,
Texas, Tammy and Louis Bunger of Ozona, Texas, Jon and Erika Adams of
Coppell, Texas, David and Janene Adams of Katy, Texas, Rhonda and
Patrice Penaud of Carlisle, Mass., and Zena and Bart Bartholomew of
Pacific Palisades, Calif.; 12 great-grandchildren, Jamie LeMaire of
Gonzales, La., Ashley Rich of Perry, Fla., G.L. and Kristin Bunger of
Ozona, Texas, Morgan and Mason Adams of Coppell, Texas, Haley and
Megan Adams of Katy, Texas, Alexandra and Taylor Bartholomew of
Pacific Palisades, Calif., and Brice and Chloe Penaud of Carlisle,
Mass.; one great-great-grandson Gage LeMaire of Gonzales, La.; and
many nieces and nephews. Family would like to express their deep
appreciation of the loving care afforded to her by Dr. Ike Whitten,
Hospice of Ozona and the whole staff at the Crockett County Care
Center, and to a very special friend, C.O. ‘Lefty’ Walker. Family
request memorials be made to the American Cancer Society or The
Crockett County Care Center. 

 
 

SAM "SONNY" RANDOLPH BOYD 

SAN ANGELO — Sam “Sonny” Randolph Boyd Jr., 88, of San Angelo passed
away Sunday, Dec. 5, 2004, at his residence. Funeral service will be
at 2 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 9, in the Johnson’s Funeral Home Chapel with
the Rev. Steve Hart officiating. Burial will follow in Fairmount
Cemetery. Sonny was born Jan. 26, 1916, in Knickerbocker, Texas, to
Sam and Willie Boyd Sr. He attended school through the first grade in
Knickerbocker and then in Tankersley, Texas. He married Willie Merle
Journeay on Aug. 27, 1937, in San Angelo. He worked for M.L. Leddy
for 11 years making boots and then for Southwest Stockman’s Supply
for 15 years, where he managed the leather shop for 14 years. He
enjoyed animals and raised calves, sheep and chinchillas on different
occasions. He also enjoyed keeping up with world events, science and
politics. He was a Baptist. He is survived by his wife, Merle Boyd of
San Angelo; son, Sammy E. Boyd and wife Jean of Melissa, Texas;
grandson, Marcus K. Boyd of Austin; and many nieces and nephews. 


 
Johnson’s Funeral Home 

GRANVILLE “TEX” LACY 

MARBLE FALLS — Granville H. “Tex” Lacy, 89, passed away Monday, Dec.
8, 2004, at Harris Methodist Northwest Hospital in Azle, Texas.
Funeral will be at 2 p.m., Friday, Dec. 10, in Edgar Funeral Home
Chapel, Marble Falls, Texas. Burial will be in Marble Falls Cemetery.
Family will receive friends from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 9,
and from 11 a.m. to noon, Friday, Dec. 10, at Edgar Funeral Home.
Survivors include wife of 62 years, Genevieve Catherine Lacy; sons,
Gary Lacy and wife Joanna of Azle, Roy Lacy and wife Betty of Elgin;
sister Helen Gibbs of Burnet; grandchildren, Angela Baldwin of San
Angelo, Debbie Taylor of San Angelo and Shayna Lacy of Azle; and
great grandchild, Emily Grace Baldwin. Mr. Granville was born to John
and Maude Lacy in a ranch home in Marble Falls, Texas, on Sept. 20,
1915. He married Genevieve Renslo in Minneapolis, Minn., on May 30,
1942. He began his career as a law enforcement officer in Douglas,
Ariz. He had various law enforcement positions in Texas before
retiring as a supervisor from the Texas Alcoholic Beverage
Commission. Tex and wife Gen traveled after retiring and enjoyed
travel trailer rallies for several years. Tex will be remembered as a
compassionate and caring man not only to those close to him, but in
his work as well. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the
charity of your choice. 
 
Edgar Funeral Home 


RUTH COLE WOOD 

WINTERS — Ruth Cole Wood, 94, of Winters died Wednesday, Dec. 8,
2004, in a local hospital. She was born Sept. 20, 1910, in Franklin,
Texas, to Fred and Sallie Cole. She married H.M. “Pat” Wood on Dec.
31, 1929, in Ballinger and lived there until moving to Winters in
1978. She did private nursing and was a member of the First United
Methodist Church in Winters. She is survived by one son and daughter-
in-law Pat and Marlene Wood of Winters; three grandchildren; six
great-grandchildren; and one great-great-grandchild. She was preceded
in death by her parents; husband; three brothers; and three sisters.
Graveside service will be at 2 p.m. Friday, Dec. 10, 2004, in Old
Runnels Cemetery with the Rev. Jan Baldwin officiating. 

 
Winters Funeral Home 


December 10

HELEN ROBETA DUNN WALLIS 

SAN ANGELO — Helen Roberta Dunn Wallis went to be with the Lord on
Wednesday, Dec. 8, 2004, after a brief illness. Service will be at 2
p.m. Friday, Dec. 10, at Johnson’s Funeral Home. Graveside service
will be at 3:30 p.m. Friday in Stacy Cemetery, Stacy, Texas,
following chapel service with the Rev. L.C. Messer officiating. Helen
was born June 14, 1916, in Coleman County. She married Charlie B.
Wallis Sr. on Jan. 13, 1934, in Coleman, Texas. Helen taught school
for 20 years at Lamar Elementary in Special Education. She spent the
better part of her life working and living on ranches in the West
Texas area. After her husband preceded her in death, she moved to
Grape Creek in May 1980. She enjoyed quilting, reading, gardening and
raising her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She was preceded
in death by her husband; and her brothers, Frank E. Dunn and M. Doss
Dunn. She is survived by her seven children, Jane Parker, Roberta
Christopher, Gwen Baker and her husband, Kenneth Gene, Lonnie Wallis
and his wife, Barbara, all of Grape Creek, Morris Wallis of
Arlington, Charlie B. Wallis Jr. and his wife, Linda, of Alvord, and
Lorna Bunger and her husband, David, of Eden. She had 13
grandchildren and 18 great-grandchildren. The family would like to
express a deep appreciation to the employees of Baptist Memorials. A
special thanks to her daughter-in-law, Barbara Wallis, and her
daughter, Roberta Christopher. 

 
Johnson’s Funeral Home 


ROBERT L NICKELL JR 

MIDLAND — Robert Lee Nickell Jr., 74, of Midland passed away
Wednesday, Dec. 8, 2004, after a long illness. Bob was born Oct. 27,
1930, in Del Rio, Texas, the son of Theresa and Robert L. Nickell. He
graduated from Alpine High School. He attended Sul Ross University
where he played for the university football team. He served in CID in
the U.S. Army during the Korean War, being honorably discharged in
1953. Bob married Gladys Hill of Ballinger, Texas, on Nov. 11, 1954.
He graduated from Texas Technological College in 1958 and was
employed by El Paso Natural Gas as a drilling engineer in Farmington,
N.M. He remained with the company for 28 years, retiring as regional
operations manager of El Paso Exploration in Midland, Texas, in 1986.
He was a volunteer interviewer for the Commemorative Air Force and
was on the board of directors for the Permian Basin International Oil
Show. He was a former member of the Society of Petroleum Engineers
and Texas Professional Engineers. Bob is survived by his wife, Gladys
Nickell of Midland; sisters, Helen Wilkerson and husband Marion of
Garden City, and Marilyn Read and husband Bob of Big Spring; and
several nieces, a nephew and a host of friends. The family especially
wishes to thank Dr. John McKenna and Dr. John Worrell for their care,
compassion and friendship in treating Bob over the years, with a
special thanks to friends for their support and love. The family will
receive friends between the hours of 6 p.m. and 8 p.m. Friday, Dec.
10, at Ellis Funeral Home. Funeral service has been scheduled for 9
a.m. Saturday, Dec. 11, in Ellis Funeral Home Chapel. Private family
graveside service will be in Evergreen Cemetery in Ballinger, Texas.
Pallbearers will be Rick Armstrong, Johnny Howard, Phil Roberts, Gene
Hodge, Tommy Lent and Butch Ladd. In lieu of flowers, the family
suggests that memorials be directed to Hospice of Midland, P.O. Box
2621, Midland, TX 79702 or the Commemorative Air Force, P.O. Box
62000, Midland, TX 79711-2000. 
 
Ellis Funeral Home 


ALTA GERALDINE GRIMES “GERRY” REECE 

ABILENE — Alta Geraldine Grimes, beloved mother and cherished
friend, was born in Duval, Okla., on May 1, 1928, to Ellis Everett
Grimes and Katherine Elizabeth “Bessie” Smith Grimes. She was
preceded in death by two sisters, Ruth Grimes and Helen Harper. She
graduated from Plainview High School and attended McMurry College
where she studied voice. She received a bachelor’s degree from Hardin-
Simmons University in social work in 1971 and was employed at Abilene
State School, Big Spring State Hospital and Skyview Living Center in
Stamford. She sang professionally and was a choir member and soloist
at University Baptist Church for many years. Her family was her
greatest source of joy. Survivors include two sons, Monte Perkins of
Houston and Stephen Perkins and wife Laurel of Rockwall; six
daughters, Donise Coonrod of San Angelo, Ramona Davenport and Melissa
Riggs and husband Steve of Boerne, Roxanne Sturgeon of Odessa,
Elizabeth Berry and Melody Swogger of Arlington; 14 grandchildren,
Corbin Perkins, Talon Berry, David, John and Mark Perkins, all of the
Dallas area, Reece and Logan Perkins and Karen Rachel Coonrod, all of
San Angelo, Nicholas Swogger of Arlington, Margot McNeil of Abilene,
Kristy McGaughey of Bellingham, Wash., and Matthew, Kathryn and
Samuel Sturgeon of Odessa; four great-grandchildren, Noah Perkins of
San Angelo, Kloey McNeil and Korbin Deere, both of Abilene, Taalyn
and Bralon Berry of the Dallas area, and Maya Safarik of Bellingham,
Wash.; two nephews, Aaron Harper and wife Susan, and Daniel Harper
and wife Florence of California; and several great nephews. In lieu
of flowers, friends may make donations to VistaCare Hospice at 800-
836-6727. Visitation with the family will be at 2 p.m. on Saturday,
Dec. 11, at Elmwood Funeral Home, 5750 Hwy. 277 South in Abilene,
followed by service at 3:30 p.m. in Elmwood Funeral Home Chapel.
Burial will be in Elmwood Memorial Park. 

 
Elmwood Funeral Home 


CECILIA CABALLERO RAMIREZ 

SAN ANGELO — Cecilia Caballero Ramirez, 48, of San Angelo went to be
with the Lord on Tuesday, Dec. 7, in San Angelo. Rosary will be at 7
p.m. Friday, Dec. 10, in Johnson’s Funeral Home Chapel. Mass of
Christian Burial will be 10 a.m., Saturday, Dec. 11, at St. Joseph’s
Catholic Church with Father Quirino Cornejo as celebrant. Interment
will follow in Calvary Cemetery. Cecelia was born in San Angelo,
Texas, on July 23, 1956, to her parents, Fred and Gloria Caballero.
She attended San Angelo Central High School. She was preceded in
death by two brothers, Ervin and Ronnie Caballero; and one sister,
Hilda Caballero Vega. She is survived by her loving family, parents
Fred Caballero of Bonham, Texas, and Gloria Caballero of San Angelo;
son Frankie Ramirez Jr. of San Angelo; granddaughter Lucile Vianey
Ramirez; son, Ronald David and his wife, Amy Ramirez, of San Angelo;
two sisters, Yvonne Caballero of San Angelo and Jeannie Fernandez of
Bonham; one brother, Fred S. Caballero Jr., of Grand Prairie; nieces
Rosario Lavaris, Jackie Escobedo, Yvette Zuniga, Leticia Ornelas,
Monica Troncoso, Amy Flores and Delilia Robles; and numerous other
nieces and nephews. Pallbearers for the service will be Michael
Caballero, Steven Morales, Joel Martinez, Ricky Zuniga, Fred
Caballero, Jr. and Issac Perez. 
We knew little that morning that God was going to call your name. In
life we loved you dearly, in death We do the same. It broke our
hearts To lose you, you did not go alone; For part of us went with
you, the day God called you home. You left us peaceful memories, your
love is still our guide; and though we cannot see you, you are always
at our side. Our family chain is broken, and nothing seems the same;
but as God calls us one by one, the chain will link again. 




 
Johnson’s Funeral Home 


JEANNE P CARD 

FORT STOCKTON — Mrs. Jeanne P. Card, 86, of Fort Stockton, Texas,
passed away Thursday, Dec. 9, 2004. She was born March 10, 1918, in
Hagerman, N.M., to Clarence C. and Winifred Mae Pritchard. On July 3,
1940, she married W.L. “Dub” Card in Pecos, Texas. In 1966 they moved
to Fort Stockton, Texas, where Mrs. Card was a longtime member of the
Fort Stockton Garden Club and many bridge clubs. She was active in
the Homebound Ministry of the First Baptist Church. She was preceded
in death by her husband on June 18, 1994. Service will be at 2 p.m.
Sunday, Dec. 12, at the First Baptist Church of Fort Stockton. The
Rev. Bob Cheek will officiate. Burial will follow in the East Hill
Cemetery. She is survived by two sons, W.L. Card Jr. and wife Martha
of Pecos, Texas, and Robert Card and wife Sarah of Fort Stockton,
Texas; two daughters, Connie Phillips and husband Fred of Odessa,
Texas, and Pat Dunagan and husband Dan of Alpine, Texas; sister,
Helen Orrison and husband Lowell of Roswell, N.M.; brother, Stuart
Pritchard and wife Rita of Roswell, N.M.; 13 grandchildren; and eight
great-grandchildren. 
 
Fort Stockton Funeral Home 


December 11

HOWARD DALTON YORK SR. 

BRADY — Howard Dalton York Sr. of Brady passed away on Thursday,
Dec. 9, 2004, in Eden at the age of 69 years. Memorial services will
be planned at a later date. 
Howard was born Aug. 2, 1935, to Robert Miles and Bernice Wallace
York in Moline, Texas. He married Judy Hale on May 19, 1983, in
Altus, Okla. Coming from Coleman in 1997, Howard lived in Brady six
years. 

Survivors include his wife, Judy York of Brady; one son, Howard York
Jr. and wife Nina of Brownwood; two daughters, Sheri York of Lubbock
and Angela York of Waco; two stepchildren, Jerry Roberts of Bangs and
Jackie Roberts of Hamilton; six step-grandchildren; one brother,
Charles York of San Antonio; and one sister, Katherine Benjamin of
Lometa. 

Howard was preceded in death by his parents; brother, R. D. “Buck
York” in 2001; sister, Belle Wagner in 2001; and stepdaughter,
Jennifer Roberts Newton in September of 2004. 

The family would like to give special thanks to Concho Health and
Rehabilitation Center of Eden, Texas, and to VistaCare of San Angelo,
Texas. 

 
Heritage Funeral Home 


LEONARD SPENCER LEE 

SAN ANGELO — Leonard Spencer Lee, 87, of San Angelo died Friday,
Dec. 10, 2004, at Regency House of San Angelo. 

Leonard served in World War II at Shepard Field in Wichita Falls and
37 months in France. 

He was preceded in death by his wife, Pansy; by parents, Mr. and
Mrs. E.C. Lee; brother, Bill; and niece, Brenda Eckert. 

He is survived by one sister, Leah Brooks of San Angelo and her
children, Janie Boykin of Vernon, Dr. Larry Brooks of Junction and
Lynn Brooks of San Angelo; sister-in-law, Elaine Eckert and her
husband, Clarence, of Odessa and their children, Pam Logan and
husband Deryl of Fort Worth, and Kim Wrinkle and her husband, A.W.,
of Odessa; and several great-nieces and nephews. 

Graveside service will be at 10 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 11, in Fairmount
Cemetery on Avenue N with Paul Shero of Southgate Church of Christ
officiating. 

 
Johnson’s Funeral Home 


December 12

NORMA HINRICHS 

SAN ANGELO — Norma Hinrichs, 94, passed away Friday, Dec. 10, 2004,
at Baptist Memorials Center. 
Service will be at 10:30 a.m. Monday, Dec. 13, at Trinity Lutheran
Church in Miles with Diane Terrazaz A.I.M. officiating. Interment
will be in the Protestant Cemetery in Rowena. 

She was born Jan. 7, 1910, to August and Emily Schnieder Maass. She
married Gerhard Hinrichs on Dec. 17, 1932, in Ballinger. Norma spent
most of her life in the farming community. She truly loved quilting,
cooking, gardening and visiting with family and friends. She was a
member of the Trinity Lutheran Church of Miles. 

She was preceded in death by her husband in 1990. 

Survivors include two daughters, Helen Cantrell and husband George
of Carrollton, and Pearl Bowen and husband Butch of Wingate; four
grandchildren, Mike Bowen and wife Sandra of St. Jo, Lisa Lamb of
Garland, Alfred Cantrell of Carrollton, and Beverly Davidson and
husband Keith of Crossroads; two great-grandchildren, Michael Bowen
and Kyle Lamb; one brother, Victor Maass of California; and two
sisters, Margaret Palmer of Austin and Eva Harmon of Dallas. 

Family would like to express their deep appreciation to all the
staff at Baptist Memorials and to Baptist Memorial Hospice. 
 
Johnson’s Funeral Home 

J. H. “Steve” Stevens 

SAN ANGELO — J. H. “Steve” Stevens, 79, of San Angelo passed away
Friday, Dec. 10, 2004, in Waco. 
He was born March 6, 1925, in Miles to S.P. Stevens and Charlotte
Brooks Stevens. Steve served in the U.S. Army and later owned Stevens
Floor Covering for 30 years. He married Meirle Lane on Aug. 31, 1956;
she preceded him in death in 1998. J.H. was a longtime member of the
local VFW and of the DAV. 

J. H. was preceded in death by his parents; son, Dwayn Stevens; and
his wife. 

Steve is survived by two daughters, Connie Everett of Beaver, Okla.,
and Marsha Franklin of Denver, Colo.; seven grandchildren; 12 great-
grandchildren; sister, Ella Wallace of Atlanta, Ga.; and niece, Joy
Brown of San Angelo. 

Graveside service will be at 10 a.m. Monday, Dec. 13, in Miles
Cemetery with Pastor Bill Myers officiating. 

Johnson’s Funeral Home 

ROBBIE L. PROCTOR 

SAN ANGELO — Robbie L. Proctor, 63, of Big Lake passed away Friday,
Dec. 10, 2004, in a local nursing home. 
Funeral service will be at 11 a.m. Monday, Dec. 13, at the Grape
Creek Baptist Church with the Rev. Brad Winchester officiating.
Burial will be at 3 p.m. in the Big Lake Cemetery. 

Robbie was born May 21, 1941, in Coleman, Texas, to William Milas
and Birdie Proctor. He worked as a truck driver for Southwest Butane
for 30 years. He was an Army veteran. 

He was preceded in death by his parents and three brothers, Barney
Proctor, Winifred Proctor and Jimmy Proctor. 

Survivors include daughter, Stacey Minor and husband Mickey of
Jacksonville, Ark.; son, Michael Ray Proctor of Dermott, Ark.;
brother, Horace Proctor and wife Peggy of Arlington, Wash.; two
sisters, Dorothy Foy of Austin and Bonnie Jonas of Arlington, Texas;
sister-in-law, Mary Ann Proctor of San Angelo; five grandchildren,
Jade Tynes, Holly Longoria, Kyle Manes, Suzette Barnes and Tony
Wilkerson; six great-grandchildren, Rowdy Weathers, Ryder Longoria,
Green Leigh Weathers, Jaidyn Barnes, Christian Manes and Neelie
Minor; 11 nieces; and 13 nephews 

Pallbearers will be Doug Proctor, Danny Proctor, Billie Proctor,
Keigm Proctor, Lane Worthington, Nathan Proctor and Jimmie Proctor. 

Memorials may be made to Heritage House, 1915 Greenwood, San Angelo,
TX 76901 or VistaCare Hospice, 940 B. Arroyo Drive, San Angelo, TX
76903. 

Mr. Proctor’s obituary may be viewed online at www. RobertMassie.com 

Robert Massie Funeral Home 

MAMIE S. PFEIFFER 

SAN ANGELO — Mamie S. Pfeiffer, age 97, of San Angelo passed from
this life on Friday, Dec. 10, 2004, at Regency House. She previously
resided at Meadow Creek Nursing Center. 
She was born on July 21, 1907, in Rockdale, Texas, to Paul John and
Selma Menn Henniger. She married Waltermer “Alex” Pfeiffer on Nov.
26, 1930, in Thorndale, Texas. 

She was a wonderful cook and homemaker, and especially liked to bake
cookies. She liked working in her yard. Mamie loved having big
birthday parties and family gatherings for her family. 

She is survived by a brother, Lonnie Henniger of San Angelo; her
son, Arvid Pfeiffer and wife Sue of San Angelo; daughters, Beulah
Collins and husband Billy of San Angelo, and Fay Dell Doran of San
Antonio; six grandchildren and their spouses, Linda and Rick Offill
of Grape Creek, Micky and Kerrie Collins of Paint Rock, Teresa and
Steve Jansa of Vancourt, Donna and Kevin Niehues of Eola, David Doran
of Austin, and Michael and Maryanne Doran of McAllen; and 15 great-
grandchildren, Robbie Offill, Mason Collins, Morgan Collins, Slade
Jansa, Kalli Jansa, Kirsten Niehues, Reid Niehues, Lauren Niehues,
Amanda Doran, Darby Doran, Travis Doran, Shelby Doran, Marc Doran,
and twins, Mckhaela and Savannah Doran. 

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Alex; son-in-law,
Leo J. Doran; sisters, Maggie Straach and Amanda Nuckles; and a
brother, Albert Henniger. 

Family visitation will be from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 12, at
Johnson’s Funeral Home. 

The family extends special thanks to Verna Morse for her special,
loving care of Mamie, and also the nursing staff at Regency House and
Meadow Creek Nursing Center for their kind and loving care while she
was at their facilities. 

Funeral service will be at 10 a.m. Monday, Dec. 13, at Johnson’s
Funeral Home Chapel with the Rev. Alan Williams officiating.
Pallbearers will be her grandsons. Burial will follow in the Miles
Cemetery. 

Johnson’s Funeral Home 

JESUS MONCADA YBARRA 

SAN ANGELO — Jesus Moncada Ybarra, 81, of San Angelo died Friday,
Dec. 10, 2004, at his residence. 
Rosary will be recited at 8 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 14, in Johnson’s
Funeral Home chapel. Funeral Mass will be at 10 a.m. Wednesday, Dec.
15, at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church. Burial will follow in Lawnhaven
Memorial Gardens. 

Jesus was born June 5, 1923, in D’Hanis, Texas, to Jesus and Benita
Ybarra. He was a lifetime resident of San Angelo and was a retired
boot maker, having worked for Mercer Boots for several years. 

He served his country proudly during World War II in the European
Theater with Battery B. 581st antiaircraft artillery battalion. He
was a recipient of the EAME Campaign Ribbon with one Bronze Star, the
Victory Ribbon and two Overseas Service Bars. 

Survivors include his daughters, Christina and Yolanda;
stepchildren, Abe Villescaz of Dell Valley, Robert Villescaz of San
Angelo, Daniel Villescaz of Austin, Joe Villescaz of Fort Worth,
Jessie Villescaz of Henderson, Nev., Sylvia Uriegas of Cedar Hills
and Mary Luna of Houston; and several grandchildren, nieces, nephews
and cousins, including a very special cousin, Larry Davila of San
Angelo. 

Pallbearers will be R.J. Luna, Daniel Lopez, Manuel Baca, Jesse
Martinez Sr., Jessie Martinez Jr. and Glen Paiz. 

Johnson’s Funeral Home 

MARVIN HELWIG 

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. — Marvin Helwig, 85, a 44-year Colorado
Springs resident, passed away Wednesday, Dec. 1, 2004. 
He was born Dec. 27, 1918, in Miles, Texas, to Edmund Julius and
Thelma Muller Helwig. Mr. Helwig retired from the Army after 24 years
of service. He was a criminal investigator while serving in the Army
and went on to Offset Printing upon retiring. 

Marvin is survived by his son, Richard “Rick” and his wife, Barbara;
a daughter, Linda Martell; three grandchildren, Cynthia Helwig,
Robert Helwig and Tina Peters; one great-grandchild, Jordan Peters;
and two brothers, Edgar and Walter. 

Preceding him in death were his wife, Elizabeth Anna Baumgaertner
Helwig, and his parents. 

Services were held in Colorado Springs. 
 
Cappadona’s Family Services 

JAMES ALBERT SANDERS 

SAN ANGELO — James Albert Sanders, 64, of San Angelo passed away on
Friday, Dec. 10, 2004, in a local care center. 
Mr. Sanders was born Jan. 13, 1940, in Coldston, Texas. He was a
Navy veteran. 

He was preceded in death by his parents and a stepson, Ricky Newton. 

Visitation will be from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 12, at
Gutierrez Funeral Chapels/North, 1002 N. Oakes St. Visitation will
also be on Monday, Dec. 13, starting at 9 a.m. at Foskey-Lilley-
McGill Funeral Home in Dimmitt, Texas. Chapel service will be at 2
p.m. Monday, Dec. 13, at the funeral home. Interment will follow in
the Dimmitt Cemetery. 

Survivors include his wife, Charlette Youts Sanders of San Angelo;
two daughters, Michelle Gosson of Abilene and Sharon McQuiston of
Henderson; and two stepchildren, Katonya Allison of Canyon and Donnie
Newton of Coahoma. Also surviving is one sister, Mary Dell Young of
Hale Center; brother, Jack Sanders of Amarillo; 11 grandchildren; and
seven great-grandchildren. 

Gutierrez Funeral Chapels/North 

JAMES MILTON CONDRA JR.

SONORA — James Milton Condra Jr., 67, died Friday, Dec. 10, 2004, in
San Angelo after a brief illness. 
Jimmy was born Aug. 3, 1937, in Dryden, Texas. He was the son of
James Milton Condra Sr. He attended elementary school in Dryden and
high school in McCamey, Texas. He served in the 3rd Infantry of the
U.S. Army and, after being honorably discharged, he attended Texas
Western College in El Paso. Jimmy began his career in the oil and gas
business during high school working on a pulling unit for Yale E.
Key. After his service duty, he worked for Kennedy Trucking, Dowell,
Texas Eastern Transmission, Mobil Oil and BTA Oil Company. 

Jimmy moved to Sonora in 1974 while working for Lively Exploration.
On June 3, 1978, Jimmy married Diana Cahill in San Angelo, Texas. He
started a contract pumping and roustabout service, which evolved into
JIMCO and DICON Enterprises. In 1996, they fulfilled their dream by
moving to their ranch in the eastern part of Sutton County. 

Jimmy loved Sonora and Sutton County and served his community in
many capacities, including the Sonora ISD, Sutton County Airport and
4-H Club. He was a very dedicated and active member of the First
United Methodist Church. 

Jimmy is survived by his wife, Diana Cahill Condra of Sonora;
daughter, Jamie Sue Haga of San Antonio, Texas; son, Justin Condra
and wife Donette of Austin, Texas; daughter, Whitney Condra Keller
and husband Shane Keller of Galveston, Texas; granddaughter, Erica
Maingot; sister, Dottie Routh and husband Steve of Ballinger, Texas;
and niece, Julie Guzman and children Matt and Michaela of San Angelo,
Texas. 

Funeral service is scheduled for 3 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 12, at the
First United Methodist Church in Sonora. Burial will follow in the
Sonora Cemetery in Sonora, Texas. 

Pallbearers are Bud Whitehead, Espy Whitehead, Ben Pool, Cleve T.
Jones, Billy Burnham, Mario Duran Jr., Glen Richardson and Bobby
Doran. Honorary pallbearers are Arnold Gilcrease, Jim Mathews, Al
Lynch, Jackie Howard, Aaron Cranford, Bob Cramer and Jim Stimmel. 

The family requests memorials be made to the Sutton County Health
Foundation, Box 18, Sonora, TX 76950, or your favorite charity. 

Kerbow Funeral Home 

December 22 

NICHOLAS A PETRELLA 

SOLVAY, N.Y. — Retired Master Sgt. Nicholas A. Petrella (USAF), 47,
of Solvay went home to be with the Lord on Monday, Dec. 20, 2004,
after a long battle with cancer at St. Joseph’s Hospital. He was born
in Syracuse and graduated from Solvay High School in 1975. He served
in the best Air Force in the world for 22 years and received a
Meritorious Service Medal, Joint Service Commendation Medal and the
Southwest Asia Medal. He graduated from Southern Illinois University
Carbondale Magna Cum Laude. He was employed at Lockheed Martin,
Liverpool, in the Radar Division for the past three years. Nick was
an active member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
He served as a Sunday school teacher for the youth and also served in
the High Priest Quorum. He volunteered for six years at Glenmore
Elementary School. The Petrella family would like to extend its
thanks to St. Joseph’s Hospital Staff on floor 1-8 for their care,
understanding, kindness and love. Surviving are his wife of 24 years,
Gerri Petrella; three daughters, twins Angelina and Melissa, and
Nicole, all of Solvay; one son, Michael of San Angelo, Texas;
parents, Beth (White) and Nicholas J. Petrella of Solvay; one sister,
Marybeth (Tom) Bonczek, of New Haven, Conn.; two brothers, Dan
(Sharon) and Jim (Karen), both of Liverpool; and several nieces and
nephews. Service will be at 10 a.m. Thursday, Dec. 23, in The Church
of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 801 E. Colvin St., Syracuse,
New York. Burial will be in the Onondaga County Veterans Memorial
Cemetery. Calling hours are from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 22,
at the Bagozzi Twins Funeral Home, 2601 Milton Ave., Solvay. In lieu
of flowers, contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society-
Research, 6725 Lyons St., P.O. Box 7 E. Syracuse, NY 13057. 
 
Bagozzi Twins Funeral Home 

BETTY JUNE BRYMER BACKUS 

LA GRANGE — Graveside service for Betty June Brymer Backus, 75, of
Freyburg, was at 9:45 a.m. Friday, Dec. 10, in Fort Sam Houston
National Cemetery in San Antonio with military honors. She passed
away Sunday, Dec. 5, 2004, in an Austin hospital. Betty was born June
15, 1929, in San Angelo and was a 1947 graduate of San Angelo High
School. She attended Angelo State College from 1947 to 1949. She
served in the U.S. Navy during the Korean War from 1950 to 1953. She
was a member of First Presbyterian Church in San Angelo and served as
a librarian for numerous government and private libraries. She was a
member of A.R.M.A. and T.L.A. Betty retired from Union Texas
Petroleum/Allied Chemical in 1985 and moved to the Freyburg area of
Fayette County, Texas. She was a member of the Schulenburg American
Legion Post #143 and held various offices in the organization.
Survivors include daughter and son-in-law, Beth and Mike Patterson of
Muldoon, Texas; six grandchildren, Elisha and Bryan Corliss of San
Antonio, Joshua Andrade, Jacob and Rebecca Westmoreland and Talon
Patterson, all of Muldoon, Texas; three great-grandchildren, Blake,
Hunter and Kayleigh Corliss; and one sister, Maxine Tyler of La
Vernia, Texas. Memorials may be made to the John Wayne Cancer
Institute, Saint John’s Health Center, 2200 Santa Monica Blvd., Santa
Monica, CA 90404. 
 
Koenig & Strickland Funeral Home 

December 23 

MARIA M ROBLES 

SAN ANGELO — Maria M. Robles, 90, of San Angelo passed away
peacefully Tuesday, Dec. 21, 2004, at her home surrounded by her
family and her two daughters that never left her side. A prayer
service will be at 7 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 23, at Gutierrez Funeral
Chapels/North. Graveside service will be at 1 p.m. Friday, Dec. 24,
in the Sonora City Cemetery. Mrs. Robles was born on April 15, 1914,
in Villa de Union, Coah. Mexico. She married Norberto H. Robles on
Jan. 3, 1929. Before moving to San Angelo, they had lived in Oregon
for 23 years. They were members of the Primera Iglesia Bautista. She
was preceded in death by her husband of 72 years, Norberto H. Robles.
Survivors include her sons, Melchor Robles and wife Rosa of
McMinville, Ore., Francisco Robles and wife Genoveva of San Angelo,
Norberto Robles Jr. of Amity, Ore., David Robles of Silverton, Ore.,
and Jose Robles of Salem, Ore.; six daughters, Dolorez Lopez and
husband Eugene of San Angelo, Alice Sanchez and husband Tony of Waco,
Carmen Gonzales of Amity, Ore., Delia Reyes of Joliet, Ill., Herminia
Robles of Eldorado and Gena Byrd of St. Petersburg, Fla. Also
surviving are four nieces, five nephews, 34 grandchildren, 44 great-
grandchildren and three great-great-grandchildren. Pallbearers will
be grandsons Jesse Echavarrie, Ruben Robles, Arturo Robles, Raul
Robles, Reymundo Robles and George Montez. The family wishes to
express thanks to Hospice of San Angelo and especially to Lea
Henderson and to Shannon Home Health. I Am Not There Do not stand at
my grave and weep; I am not there, I do not sleep. I am a thousand
winds that blow; I am the diamond glint on snow. I am the sunlight on
ripened grain; when you wake in the morning rush of quiet birds in
circling flight. I am the soft starlight at night. Do not stand at my
grave and weep; I am not there, I do not sleep. 
 
Gutierrez Funeral Chapels/North 

ALEX J HALFMANN 

SAN ANGELO — Our beloved Alex J. Halfmann of Wall passed away on
Tuesday, Dec. 21, 2004, in a local hospital at the age of 89. Mass
will be celebrated at 3 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 23, at St. Ambrose
Catholic Church with the Rev. Tom Barley officiating and the Rev.
Curtis Halfmann and the Rev. Louis Moeller assisting. Burial will
follow in St. Ambrose Catholic Cemetery. Alex was born in Runnels
County near Olfen, Texas, to Joe H. and Eleanora Ocker Halfmann on
July 28, 1915. While attending St. Boniface Catholic School in Olfen,
he was a member of the Boy Scout troop later named for its leader
Msgr. Arnold Boeding. He proudly served his country in World War II
in the Army Air Corps in England and North Africa. He was a life
member of Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 1815 in San Angelo. A true
patriot, he donated the flagpole at St. Ambrose Catholic Church in
Wall. He married the love of his life, Geraldine Halfmann on May 7,
1946. Her parents were A.T. and Lena Gerngross Halfmann Sr. of Olfen.
In 1947, they moved to their home southeast of Wall where they began
farming and raising a family together. He was a charter member of the
Knights of Columbus for over 70 years and was a fourth degree Knight
of Columbus. He served as director of the Tom Green County Farm
Bureau for 36 years. He was active in agriculture and stock farming
all of his life. He started working with his father at the age of 12
when his father told the nuns he would not return to school. Over the
years, Alex assisted the 4-H and Wall FFA boys and girls. He hauled
their animals to stock shows all across Texas long after his own
children were grown. He received the Honorary State Farmer Award in
1980 and the Pioneer Award from the Texas Farm Bureau in 2001 for his
years of service to farming and ranching. His parents; sister, Sadie
Edmiston; brother, E.A Halfmann; and beloved grandchildren, Jack
Clayton Burleson II and Julie Alexandra Burleson, his namesake,
preceded him in death. Survivors include his wife of 58 years,
Geraldine, who faithfully took care of him through his illness; three
sons, Bobby and wife Sharon, Bruce and wife Angela and Brian and wife
Rhonda, all of Wall; three daughters, Phyllis Smith and husband
Mickey of Fort Stockton, Pam Stokes of San Antonio and Priscilla
Halfmann of San Angelo; grandchildren, Courtney Hambright and husband
James of San Antonio, Helen Harris of Athens, Greece, Casi Halfmann
of Houston, Brianne Killam and husband Duane, Shyanne Halfmann, Tyler
Halfmann and Justin Halfmann, all of Wall, Kayleen Smith Rivera of
San Antonio, Dawn Clayton of Caldwell and Ben, Dillon and Zack Zaruba
of San Angelo; great grandchildren Julynn and Blair Clayton of
Caldwell and Kennedy Rivera of San Antonio; sister Rupert (Adeline)
Beach of San Angelo; brother Harry Halfmann of Ballinger; sisters-in-
law Laverne Gully, Barbara Frey and Kathy Halfmann, all of Ballinger;
and brothers-in-law Alan Halfmann and wife Marilyn of Ballinger.
Pallbearers will be Marty Frey, Robbie Halfmann, Brandon Halfmann,
Tyler Halfmann, Justin Halfmann, Duane Killam, James Hambright and
Mickey Dodds. Honorary pallbearers will be members of San Angelo VFW
Post 1815 and Alex’s fishing and coffee drinking buddies from the
Wall Co-op Gin. Memorials can be made to St. Ambrose Catholic Church,
VFW Post 1815 Scholarship fund or charity of choice. Special thanks
to Dr. Chang, Intrepid Home Health Care and especially Mechelle
Grice, R.N. 
 
Johnson’s Funeral Home 

JAMES ANDERSON WEAVER ROSE 

DALLAS — James Anderson Weaver Rose passed away in Dallas on
Tuesday, Dec. 21, 2004. He was born in Lamesa, Texas, on Jan. 18,
1935. He graduated from Lamesa High School in 1953 where he excelled
not only in class but also in athletics. He was a fastball pitcher
for the Golden Tornados and was known for his big, sweeping curveball
that led the Lamesa American Legion Team to the state finals in 1952.
Jim attended undergraduate and law school at SMU where he was a
member of the SAE Fraternity, captain of the SMU swim team that was
the Southwest Conference Champion in 1957, and was elected to the
Blue Key National Honor Fraternity. In law school, he was elected to
the Board of Editors of the Southwestern Law Journal, Barristers and
to the Order of the Woolsack. After graduating magna cum laude from
law school in 1960, he joined the Dallas law firm of Thompson,
Knight, Wright & Simmons, which is now Thompson & Knight, LLP. He
remained with the firm since that time. Jim was an excellent lawyer
and remained active as a mortgage banking and real estate lawyer to
the date of his passing. He served as president of the American
College of Mortgage Attorneys in 1999 and has been listed in The Best
Lawyers in America since 1995. Jim was an avid sportsman with fly
fishing and golf being his favorite sports. He played golf weekly at
Brook Hollow Golf Club as part of a close group of friends referred
to as the “Gangsome.” He also served on the Board of Directors of the
Brook Hollow Golf Club and as chairman of its legal committee. His
love for sports and the law did not deter Jim from helping others. At
the time of his death, he was a director of Dallas Habitat for
Humanity and served as its general counsel. Jim was a member of
Highland Park Presbyterian Church. Most of all, Jim loved his
children, his grandchildren and his wife, Jeanette. He often told his
friends that the past 10 years, traveling and playing golf with
Jeanette, have been the best times of his life. Jim was much beloved
by family, friends and members of the Dallas Bar Association. He will
be sorely missed. Jim was preceded in death by his father, Frank W.
Rose Sr.; and his mother, Eleanor Jett Rose Hatch, of Lamesa, Texas.
Jim is survived by his loving wife, Jeanette; and his four children,
Cynthia Wood and husband Jeff of Odessa, Texas, Jennifer Henderson
and husband Mitchell of Frisco, Texas, James Anderson Weaver Rose Jr.
and wife Deborah of San Antonio, Texas, and Allison Rose of Chicago,
Ill.; and by his brother, Frank W. Rose Jr., and wife Joan Rose of
San Angelo, Texas. Jim has four grandchildren, Jill, Britton, Alex
and James Anderson Weaver Rose III. A memorial service will be at 2
p.m. Friday, Dec. 24, at Wynne Chapel, Highland Park Presbyterian
Church, 3821 University Blvd., Dallas, Texas. In lieu of flowers,
memorials may be made to Dallas Habitat for Humanity at 2008 North
Hampton Road, Dallas, TX 75212. 
 
Wynne Chapel, Highland Park Presbyterian Church 

MARY JEAN ANDERSON HAGGERTON FARRELL 

SAN ANGELO — Mrs. Farrell was born to Robert J. and Lorene McCleery
Anderson on June 6, 1938, near Erath County, Texas. She departed this
life on Monday, Dec. 20, 2004, at the Norman Regional Hospital at the
age of 66. Service will be at 2 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 23, in Johnson’s
Funeral Home Chapel, with the Rev. Jim Wilkerson officiating. Burial
will follow in Grape Creek Cemetery. She attended school at San
Angelo, Texas. Her first marriage was to Robert Haggerton of San
Angelo. They were the parents of three children, Carolyn, Bobby and
Billy. She later married John W. Farrell on Sept. 5, 1976, at
Goodfellow Air Force Base at San Angelo. They were married for 28
years. They made their home in Noble, Okla., for 23 years where she
resided until her death. She was preceded in death by her father and
one brother, Robert Daniel Anderson. Those her survive her include
her mother, Lorene Anderson of San Angelo, Texas; her husband, John
Farrell of Noble, Okla.; one daughter, Carolyn Branaman of San
Angelo, Texas; two sons, Bobby Haggerton and Sherry Connell of
Brownwood, Texas, and Billy Haggerton of San Angelo, Texas; four
sisters, Lola Dean of San Angelo, Texas, Willa Dean Cecil of Midland,
Texas, Vivian Baty and Kathy Bystrom of Georgia; and many
grandchildren, great-grandchildren and other relatives and friends. 
 
Johnson’s Funeral Home 

BOBBIE LINTHICUM BORGER DENDY 

SAN ANGELO — Bobbie Linthicum Borger Dendy died Tuesday, Dec. 21,
2004, in San Angelo, Texas, at the age of 93. She was born in
Nacogdoches, Texas, on April 30, 1911, to Claude and Mary Elizabeth
Linthicum. She is survived by her daughter, Barbara Hall and her
husband, Bill, and her son, Alan Borger and his wife, Harriett, all
of San Angelo; numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, a great-
great-grandson, nieces, nephews and a stepdaughter, Sally Sisler of
Frisco, N.C. Mrs. Dendy was the last surviving sibling of a local
ranching family and has resided in San Angelo for more than 60 years.
She was a member of First Methodist Church, attended Southern
Methodist University in Dallas and subsequently became State and
Federal Deputy Clerk of Court for many years. She was well known and
took great pride in her porcelain painting. She won Best of Show in
the San Angelo Stock Show for her work. Family visitation will be
from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 23, at Johnson’s Funeral Home. A
memorial service for the family will be at 6 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 23,
at Johnson’s Funeral Home. The family would like to offer special
thanks to Lupe and the rest of the staff of St. Angelus. Memorials
may be made to Meals for the Elderly, 310 E. Houston Harte, San
Angelo, TX 76903. 
 
Johnson’s Funeral Home 

December 24 

ROBERT L. PIERCE 

JUNCTION — Robert L. Pierce, 86, of Los Fresnos, Texas, passed away
on Tuesday, Dec. 21, 2004, in the Valley Baptist Medical Center in
Brownsville. “PaPa Bob” will be forever missed by his family and many
friends whose lives he so richly touched. 
Robert is survived by his adoring wife of 65 years, Gilberta
“Smokey” of Los Fresnos; and four children, Lyndal Pierce of Los
Fresnos, Brenda Adams of Omaha, Neb., Sandra Steele of White Oak,
Texas, and James G. Pierce of Fort Collins, Colo. He also is survived
by two brothers, R.S. Pierce of Ennis, Texas, and Jerry Pierce of
Levelland, Texas. 

“PaPa Bob” was the proud grandfather of nine and great-grandfather
of 12. 

Service will be celebrated at 2 p.m. Friday, Dec. 24, 2004, at
College Street Church of Christ. Visitation was from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Thursday, Dec. 23, 2004, at Gentry Fife Funeral Home, 1519 Main,
Junction. 

Memorial service for Robert will be held at 3 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 28,
2004, at Los Fresnos Church of Christ, 111 West 5th Street. 


 
Gentry-Fife Funeral Home 

December 25 

IVY T. YOUNG 

SAN ANGELO — Ivy T. Young, 86, of San Angelo, passed away Wednesday,
Dec. 22, 2004, in a local hospital. 
Family visitation will be held from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m., Sunday, Dec.
26, at Robert Massie Funeral Home. 

Funeral service will be held at 1 p.m., Monday, Dec. 27, in the
Robert Massie Riverside Chapel. The Rev. Mike Burson with Vista Care
Hospice will be officiating. Burial will be held in Pear Valley
Cemetery in Pear Valley, Texas. 

Ivy was born July 29, 1918, in Trickham, Texas, to Ivy James and Ida
Young. 

Ivy was owner of a cable television company and was also a rancher.
He was an avid ham operator, silent key W5PNL. 

He married Bertha Gibson Oct. 17, 1938, in Menard. Ivy and Bertha
provided their family with a loving and heartfelt home. He was a
quiet person with a great sense of humor and a lot of wisdom. He
loved his family and especially, of course, the grandchildren and
great-grandchildren. Ivy will remain in our hearts forever. 

He was preceded in death by his parents, Ivy James and Ida Young;
brother Bill Young; and sister Dorothy Baulkum. 

Survivors are wife Bertha Young; two sons, Carl Young and wife
Glenda and Don Young and wife Edna; one sister, Louise Starr of San
Angelo; one sister-in-law, Wilma Young of Austin; and numerous
grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews. 

The family would like to give special thanks to Toni and all of the
employees of Myrtlewood Estates for their care and consideration. 

Mr. Young’s obituary may be viewed online at www.RobertMassie.com. 

 
Robert Massie Funeral Home 

JERRY GEORGE HENDERSON 

SAN ANGELO — Jerry George Henderson, 80, was called home on
Thursday, Dec. 23, 2004, after a courageous battle with cancer.
Private memorial services are pending. 
He was the second of seven children born to Nat Q. Sr. and Leta Lee
Henderson of San Angelo. Jerry G. served in the U.S. Marine Corps
from 1943 until 1945. Sgt. Henderson was an aerial gunner with the
VMB423 squadron flying in SBD and PBJ aircraft in the Solomon,
Caroline and Philippine Islands. 

Jerry married Barbara Ellen Doucette in 1971 in Albuquerque, N.M.,
and they enjoyed 18 years of happiness until her passing. After
Barbara’s death in 1989, Jerry retired to San Angelo. 

Jerry was preceded in death by his wife; parents; brothers, Henry
J., Edward “Doc” and Nat W. Jr.; and sister Joyce Lee Arnold. 

He is survived by his son and daughter-in-law, Craig and Jan of San
Angelo; his brother Cecil of San Angelo; his brother and sister-in-
law Cal and Bernadene of Ballinger; his sister, Leta Calcote of
Waterford, Mich.; and a host of other beloved family members. 

The family wishes to express their gratitude to Hospice of San
Angelo with a special thanks to Lea Henderson, R.N. 

In lieu of flowers, the family wishes for donations to be made to
HOSA or a charity of choice. 

 
Shaffer Funeral Home 

December 26 

MACK WADE HURST 

SAN ANGELO — Mack Wade Hurst, 60, of San Angelo died Saturday, Dec.
18, 2004, at his residence. Graveside service will be at 11 a.m.
Monday, Dec. 27, in Lawnhaven Memorial Gardens with the Rev. J.B.
Bitner officiating. 
Mack was born June 20, 1944, in San Angelo to Harvey Eschol and Nica
Yvonne Hurst. 

Mack graduated from San Angelo Central High School in 1962 and
joined the U.S. Navy, where he served until 1968. He served as an
engineman on the submarine the USS Hard Head. 

In 1972, he graduated from the University of Houston with a Bachelor
of Science degree in electronics engineering. He worked for Lockheed
in the missiles & space programs at Johnson Space Center for two
years and for Schlumberger in Sugerland, Texas, for several years
before returning to work for Lockheed in Sunnyvale, Calif. He did
contract work in Plano and Dallas for several years before retiring
to his family’s farm in Veribest in 1997. 

Mack was married to Marcia Kay Norris on June 5, 1966, in San Angelo. 

He was preceded in death by his parents and grandparents. 

Survivors include his wife, Marcia Hurst, of Plano; his brother,
Danny Hurst, of San Angelo; his sister, Randy Biedermann, of
Veribest; and seven nieces and nephews. 


 
Johnson’s Funeral Home 

Ivy T. Young 

SAN ANGELO — Ivy T. Young, 86, of San Angelo passed away Wednesday,
Dec. 22, 2004, in a local hospital. 
Family visitation will be from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m., Sunday, Dec. 26, at
Robert Massie Funeral Home. 

Funeral service will be at 1 p.m., Monday, Dec. 27, in the Robert
Massie Riverside Chapel. The Rev. Mike Burson with Vista Care Hospice
will be officiating. Burial will be in Pear Valley Cemetery in Pear
Valley, Texas. 

Ivy was born July 29, 1918, in Trickham, Texas, to Ivy James and Ida
Young. 

Ivy was the owner of a cable television company and was also a
rancher. He was an avid ham operator, silent key W5PNL. He married
Bertha Gibson on Oct. 17, 1938, in Menard. Ivy and Bertha provided
their family with a loving and heartfelt home. He was a quiet person
with a great sense of humor and a lot of wisdom. He loved his family
and especially, of course, the grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Ivy will remain in our hearts forever. 

He was preceded in death by his parents, Ivy James and Ida Young;
brother Bill Young; and sister Dorothy Baulkum. 

Survivors are wife, Bertha Young; two sons, Carl Young and wife
Glenda and Don Young and wife Edna; one sister, Louise Starr of San
Angelo; one sister-in-law, Wilma Young of Austin; and numerous
grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews. 

The family would like to give special thanks to Toni and all of the
employees of Myrtlewood Estates for their care and consideration. 

Mr. Young’s obituary may be viewed online at www.RobertMassie.com. 

 
Robert Massie Funeral Home 

MIGUEL P. JASSO 

SAN ANGELO — Miguel P. Jasso, 73, of San Angelo, passed away on
Friday, Dec. 24, 2004, at his residence. Rosary will be held at 7
p.m. Sunday, Dec. 26, in Johnson’s Funeral Home Chapel. Mass of the
Christian Burial will be at 9 a.m. Monday, Dec. 27, at St. Margaret’s
Catholic Church with the Rev. Joseph Choutapalli officiating. Burial
will follow in Calvary Catholic Cemetery. 
Miguel was born May 8, 1931, in Miravalles, Coah., Mexico. He was
involved in the Cursillo Movement. He retired from the San Angelo
Parks Department and from San Angelo ISD. 

Miguel was preceded in death by his parents, Pascual and Manuela P.
Jasso; and his sister, Andrea Zapata. 

Survivors include his wife Jesusita Jasso of San Angelo; his
children, Juanita Runion of Rio Rancho, N.M., Dora Chappa, Michael
Jasso, Jr., Letty Bishop, Jerry Jasso and Sandy Carrasco, all of San
Angelo, Brenda Jasso of Dallas, Mercy Jasso, Debbie Jasso, Robert
Chappa also of San Angelo; 21 grandchildren; and 14 great-
grandchildren. 

The family wishes to thank Dr. Chinn, Dr. Cheruku, Shannon nursing
staff and Hospice of San Angelo. 


 
Johnson’s Funeral Home 

MABEL D. MURDOCH 

CRESTVIEW, Fla. — Mabel D. Murdoch succumbed to dementia on
Thursday, Dec. 9, 2004, in a rehabilitation center in Crestview
Florida. Mabel, a longtime resident of Christian Village in San
Angelo, Texas, was born Nov. 11, 1918, in Lulu, Fla. 
She is survived by her son, Al Murdoch of Dallas; daughter, Sharon
Hall of Opp, Ala.; two nieces; four grandchildren; and six great-
grandchildren. 

A graveside service was conducted Sunday, Dec. 12, at the Douglas
family plot in Kissimmee, Fla. She will be greatly missed by her
family and friends. Memorials in Mrs. Murdoch’s name can be made to
the Alzheimer/Dementia Foundation. 

December 27 

MARY BETH INCE 

MASON — Mary Elizabeth Ince, age 68, passed away on Friday, Dec. 24,
2004. 
Mary Beth was born in Mason, Texas, on Dec. 17, 1936, to Walter and
Mollie Eppler. On Dec. 14, 1957, Mary Beth married Edwin Clinton Ince
at the First Baptist Church. They recently celebrated 47 years of
marriage. 

She graduated from Mason High School and Southwest Texas State
University where she obtained her teaching certification in
vocational homemaking and special education. During her 18 years of
service in the Mason ISD, she touched the lives of countless students
with her understanding nature and creative spirit. 

First and foremost, Mary Beth will be remembered as a Godly wife,
mother and grandmother. She was an avid bridge player, reader and
artist. She was active in the First Baptist Church, Riata Service
Organization, Friends of the Library, Emmaus Community/Chambers
Reunion Group, Wednesday night Bunko group and a member of the Texas
Retired Teachers Association. But, perhaps most of all, she will be
remembered as a wonderful cook, recently opening Grannie Beth’s
Kitchen. Along with her husband, she is survived by her daughter,
Ellen Ince; son, David Ince and wife Rene all of Mason; and son-in-
law, Wade Hibler of Burnet. She is also survived by one brother, Pat
Eppler of Mason. Additionally, she is survived by three
grandchildren, Hailey-Ann Hibler, Emily Katherine Ellebracht and
William David Ince. 

She was preceded in death by her parents and her daughter, Regina
Hibler. Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. Monday, Dec. 27, at
the First Baptist Church in Mason. Burial will follow in the Coffey
Cemetery. For those that wish to send memorials, the family suggests
the American Diabetes Association, P.O. Box 1131, Fairfax, VA 22038-
1131. 

Condolences may be sent to the family on-line at
masonfuneralhome.net. 


 
Mason Funeral Home 

RUTH R. PITZER 

SAN ANGELO — Ruth R. Pitzer died Saturday, Dec. 25, 2004, after an
extended illness. Visitation will be from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Tuesday,
Dec. 28, at Johnson’s Funeral Home. Graveside service will be at 1
p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 29, in Little Bethel Memorial Park in
Duncanville. 
She was born on a farm near Abilene, Texas, on July 12, 1923, to
C.T. and Viola Revell. After graduating from Abilene High School, she
was employed in Monahans, Texas, where she met and married Jack A.
Pitzer. 

Following his service during World War II, Jack had a long career
with Haliburton Oil Well Service Company. He preceded her in death.
She is survived by two sons, Danny Duane Pitzer and wife Brenda of
Duncanville, Texas, and Rodney Jack Pitzer and wife Laura, of
Colleyville; two granddaughters, Nancy Julene Pitzer and Natalie Kate
Pitzer, of Duncanville; one grandson, Brandon Tyler Pitzer of
Colleyville; one sister, Merle Cross of Lewisville, Texas; and one
brother, Don Revell and his wife, Pat, of San Angelo. 

We sincerely appreciate the kind and professional treatment of the
staff at Meadow Creek Nursing Center and the untold hours of loving
care provided by Pat in the last 12 years of her life. 


 
Johnson’s Funeral Home 

BESSIE REYNOLDS WESTBROOK 

SAN ANGELO — Bessie Reynolds Westbrook, 96, of Christoval, went to
be with the Lord, Thursday, Dec. 23, 2004. Funeral service will be
held at 1 p.m., Tuesday, Dec. 28, in the Robert Massie Riverside
Chapel. Buddy Trull will be officiating. Burial will follow in the
Eldorado Cemetery. 
Bessie was born on Dec. 23, 1908, on her mother’s ranch in
Schleicher County and departed from this life on her 96th birthday on
her beloved ranch. Mrs. Westbrook was from a prominent pioneer
ranching family in Schleicher County. Mrs. Westbrook attended San
Angelo Business College and Beauty College. She met Arnie Westbrook
and married him on Oct. 3, 1937. He preceded her in death March 27,
1983. 

She was a member of the First Baptist Church of Eldorado. She also
resided in Grape Creek, Miles and Tennyson, as well as Eldorado. 

During her younger years she drove a school bus for Schleicher
County and worked at the cafes in Eldorado. She also worked at the
Eldorado Woolen Mills. She took over the ranching business when her
mother passed away. She had ranching interests in Schleicher and
Concho counties. She received the Heritage Award for 100 years of
continuous ranching in the same family. 

Bessie was an artist and enjoyed ranching, reading and painting. She
continued to paint until the last few years. 

She took care of her three grandchildren during the summer months.
She shared her love for ranching and hobbies with her grandchildren
and great-grandchildren. Her great-grandchildren still remember her
teaching them to ride her favorite horse, Dunny. She was a bona fide
product of her generation, she believed in working hard and spending
wisely. 

She was preceded in death by her parents F.J. and Mary Reynolds; her
husband, Arnie Lucious Westbrook; sisters, Gertrude and Lottie; and
brothers, John, Ray, Reuben, and Frank. 

Survivors are son, Arnie Lee Westbrook of Christoval; daughter
Myrtie Burke and husband Ed of Southlake, Texas; sister Auta Mae
Bradshaw of Eldorado; two granddaughters, Elizabeth Baker and husband
Robert of Shreveport, La., and Lynda Mullan and husband Brendan of
Southlake, Texas; one grandson, Joe Lee Luttrell of Eldorado; four
great-grandchildren, Miranda Baker and Rachel Baker of Shreveport,
La; Taylor Mullan and Courtney Mullan of Southlake, Texas; two
sisters-in-law, Nannie Pope and husband Jade of San Angelo and Dorace
Westbrook of Morton, Texas; brother-in-law, Charlie Westbrook and
wife Ina of Visila, Calif.; and many nieces, nephews and friends. 

The family would like to extend a special thanks to Dr. Kenneth
Leckie and staff, Community Hospital third floor, Hospice of San
Angelo and Mary Hernandez, caregiver. 

Memorials may be made to West Texas Boys Ranch, Hospice of San
Angelo or a favorite charity. Mrs. Westbrook’s obituary may be viewed
online at www.RobertMassie.com. 



 
Robert Massie Funeral Home 

MICHAEL FREDERICK OWEN JENKINS 

SAN ANGELO — Michael Frederick Owen Jenkins died in a local hospital
on Dec. 21, 2004. He was born Jan. 1, 1929, in London, England, to
Harold and Violet Ashton Jenkins. 
After two years’ service in the British Army, he earned a B.A.
Honours degree from St. Mary’s College, University of London, after
which he spent a year as a teaching assistant at the University of
Lyon, France. When subsequent employment as a customer assistant at
Harrod’s, complaint-fielder for 3M in England and London city library
clerk proved less than fulfilling, he immigrated to Canada in 1961 to
explore a new continent and a new career as a lecturer at St. Thomas
More College of the University of Saskatchewan in Saskatoon. 

With an American friend he had met in Lyon, he visited New York City
after Christmas of that year, and there met Georgia Shaw, whom he
married exactly one year later. They returned to Saskatoon for the
remainder of the academic year. The next year they spent in Quebec,
P.Q., where their daughter Rachel was born, and Michael completed a
master’s degree at Laval University. The family then returned to
Saskatoon, where sons Stephen and Nicholas were born. 

Saskatoon was a very nice town, but cold. In 1966, the family moved
to Oswego, N.Y., where Michael taught at the local branch of the
State University of New York. Because Oswego was less nice than
Saskatoon and only marginally less cold, and because academic
advancement required a Ph.D. degree, the family next spent three
years in Ithaca, where Michael attended Cornell University, still
fairly cold, but pretty nice. 

On completing the degree in 1971, he sold his snow shovels and moved
the family to Texas, where he taught French and English at Angelo
State University until his retirement in 1994. During his teaching
career, he published a scholarly book, “Artful Eloquence: Jean
Lemaire de Belges and the Rhetorical Tradition,” as well as “Tales of
the Early Franks,” a translation from the French of Augustin Thierry
and translations of two complementary works by Voltaire, “Lion of the
North: Charles XII of Sweden” and “Russia under Peter the Great.”
After his retirement, he traveled and pursued other hobbies. A stroke
at the end of 1998 left him significantly disabled. 

Michael was a thoroughly civilized human being of great character
and charm. While he possessed a normal complement of human
imperfections, he was wholly without greed, cruelty or duplicity. He
was unfailingly honest, loving, conscientious, loyal, kind, patient,
generous to a fault and funny. He bore his misfortunes courageously
and without complaint. He was a wonderful conversationalist,
sometimes verging on monologist. His range of interests was wide,
including but not limited to painting, astronomy, trains (full-size
and model), language and literature, beagles, kites, photography,
guns, metalworking, history (especially of the American Civil War),
travel by train and otherwise, music and other people, although he
didn’t like most clubs and meetings. His greatest enthusiasm was for
his family, whom he spoiled and loved and was loved and spoiled by. 

Michael was predeceased by his elder son Stephen. 

He is survived by his wife, Georgia, of San Angelo; son, Nicholas of
San Angelo; daughter, Rachel and son-in-law Joe Kulhavy of Austin;
sister, Angela Vale and nieces Judith, Tessa, Deborah, Kate and
Claudia Vale, all of London, England. 

No funeral is planned. A memorial gathering will be announced at a
later date. 

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial donations to Save
the Children or to Concho Valley Home for Girls. 



 
Johnson’s Funeral Home 

GAYLE CUNNINGHAM 

SAN ANGELO — Zelma Gayle Woodward Cunningham, 96, actress, model,
business woman and artist, died Wednesday, Dec. 22, 2004, following a
brief illness. 
She was born July 8, 1908, in San Angelo, one of seven children, to
J.C. and Lillie Mathews Woodward. 

As a girl, she learned to ride horses at her brothers’ ranch near
Fort Stockton. After becoming a very good horsewoman, she rode in
three consecutive Rose Parades, where she represented Texas as Miss
Texas Sweetheart and Grand Marshallette. 

She then went into acting and made numerous Hollywood films along
with her beloved horse, Juan Del Rio. 

She met and married J. Glyn Hammack in 1928. Together they owned and
operated The Lamplighter Restaurant. 

She later married George “Concho” Winford Cunningham, who ranched in
the Fort Stockton area for many years. 

In her later years, she operated a booth at Concho Confetti
Antiques, where she kept much of her memorabilia and sold her
handmade jewelry. 

She was preceded in death by Evelyn Woodward Bryant, sister; Lillie
Dell Wall, sister; Fonnie Woodward, brother; Ernest Woodward,
brother; Jewel Woodward, brother; Beatrice Woodward, sister; Birch
Woodward, nephew; and Farrell Bryant, nephew. 

She is survived by Louis Woodward of Fort Stockton, nephew; Mae Ann
Untermeyer of Christoval, niece; Bill Wall of Menard, nephew;
Courtney Bryant of San Angelo, niece; Christen Miller of Dallas,
niece; Matthew Bryant of Dallas, nephew; and a very special friend,
Lamoine Abbott. 

Graveside funeral service will be at 3 p.m. Monday, Dec. 27, 2004,
in Lawnhaven Memorial Gardens with Paul Shero officiating. 

The family would like to thank the staff and all her special friends
at Christian Village and Regency House, along with the care she was
given by Dr. Adams and the Shannon Hospital 5 South nurses during her
final days. 

Memorials can be made to a favorite charity of your choice. 



 
Johnson’s Funeral Home 

December 28 

LEONARD B LEE 

SAN ANGELO — Leonard B. Lee, a four-year resident of Sagecrest
Alzheimer’s Care Center in San Angelo, died Sunday, Dec. 26, 2004.
There will be a graveside service in Lawnhaven Cemetery at 2 p.m. Wed-
nesday, Dec. 29. The Rev. Lee, the oldest of eight children, was born
Feb. 13, 1922, in Ballinger, Texas. He grew up in Texon, Texas, where
he met his wife of 62 years, Elizabeth Smelser. Also, both of their
children were born in Texon. The Rev. Lee was ordained as a minister
by the First Baptist Church of Big Lake in 1953. He completed an
undergraduate degree at the University of Corpus Christi and two
graduate degrees at Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary. He
pastored seven Baptist churches in his 40 years of ministry. Brother
Lee’s survivors include his wife, Elizabeth; sons, Barton and John;
Barton’s wife, Karen; brothers, Jimmy and Sid; and youngest sister,
Wanda. 
 
Gutierrez Funeral Chapels/North 

VERNA LEE DEAN MAHON 

SAN ANGELO — Verna Lee Dean Mahon went to be with Jesus on his
birthday, Saturday, Dec. 25, 2004, after complications from a fall in
her home Dec. 19. “Momma,” “Tiny,” “Gongie,” “Granny” was born on
Jan. 27, 1908, in Ballinger, Texas, to Charles and Ida Mae Dean. She
was raised in the old Ballinger Jailhouse that her father and mother
operated. After the death of her husband, Aaron Hamilton, she moved
to San Angelo with her four children. She married Henry Cleve Mahon
in 1960, who preceded her in death in 1976. She remained in San
Angelo until her death at the age of 96. She was an artist and loved
to work in her yard and grow beautiful flowers. She is survived by
her children, Aaron Dean Hamilton and wife Paula, Lee Roy Hamilton
and wife Opal, and Margie Mae Hamilton Scarborough, all of San
Angelo, and Betty Lynn Autry Smith of Eldorado, Texas; 15
grandchildren; 25 great-grandchildren; and numerous great-great-
grandchildren. Graveside service will be at 2 p.m. Wednesday, Dec.
29, 2004, in Lawnhaven Memorial Gardens with Andy J. Scarborough,
grandson, of Spearman, Texas, conducting prayers. The family will
receive friends after the service at Ann and Bill’s home, 2709 Alta
Vista Lane, San Angelo. We all loved her very much and she will be
greatly missed. Love you Gongie. 
 
Johnson’s Funeral Home 

GARLAND DEAN PINSON 

Garland Dean Pinson SAN ANGELO — Garland Dean Pinson died at his
home on Thursday, Dec. 23, 2004. He was born Sept. 23, 1928, in San
Saba County, Texas, to Willie P and Minnie Marjory Mayo Pinson. He
graduated from Brady High School in 1947. He served in the army
during the Korean War. He worked for Dodd’s Electric Company in Brady
for several years before moving to San Angelo. He worked for Triple A
Wholesale in San Angelo, and he also bought and sold rental property.
He was a handyman who could fix almost anything. He was
affectionately known as “Uncle Mutt” to family and friends. He was a
kind and generous person. He loved all animals. He had a special love
for cats and was always feeding and caring for strays. He was
preceded in death by his parents; his brother, Orville “Pat” Pinson;
and his brother-in-law, Charles Floyd. He is survived by his sisters,
Wilma Smith and husband Bill of San Angelo, and Kitty Floyd of San
Angelo; nieces, Leslie Lancaster of San Angelo and Patty Percifull of
Robert Lee; nephews, William Smith of San Angelo, Dave Smith of San
Angelo, Jim Smith of Houston, Bob Smith of Greentown, Ind., Mike
Floyd of Frisco, Steve Floyd of San Angelo and David Smith Jr. of
Dallas; and special cousins, Olive Hays, Jane Smith and family, and
Ann Southall and family. A graveside service will be at 2 p.m.
Wednesday, Dec. 29, in Union Band Cemetery in Pontotoc, Texas. In
lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Humane
Society of Tom Green County, the Pet Guardian Angel Welfare
Association or the Salvation Army. 
 
Johnson’s Funeral Home 

MAY NOLAND WEST 

SAN ANGELO — Mrs. May Noland West, widow of George B. West, died
Monday, Dec. 20, 2004. Mr. West died in 1968. Interment for Mrs. West
will be in Lawnhaven Memorial Gardens. Graveside service will be
conducted at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, Dec. 29. Mrs. West was born in
Williamson County, Tenn., on June 12, 1913, to James Paschall Noland
and Ruby May Steele Noland. She graduated from Franklin High School
and studied art in Nashville at the Harris School of advertising art.
May Paschall Noland and George B. West were married Oct. 4, 1941, in
Nashville, Tenn. They moved to San Angelo in 1945 when Mr. West
bought a local insurance agency that became George B. West Insurance
Service. Mr. and Mrs. West were active members of First United
Methodist Church for many years. Mrs. West was preceded in death by
her parents; and a brother, Leonard Steele Noland. Surviving are two
sons, Eugene West of California and David West of Fort Worth; two
grandchildren, Christopher T. West and Stacy M. West of California;
one niece, Regina Campbell of Gallatin, Tenn.; and several great
nieces, nephews and cousins. 
 
Johnson’s Funeral Home 

December 29 

MYRTIS MITTEL COURTION 

SAN ANGELO — Myrtis Mittel Courtion passed away at the age of 92 on
Tuesday, Dec. 28, 2004, having lived the past seven years at
Myrtlewood Estates and Regency House in San Angelo. Her service will
be held at 10 a.m. on Thursday, Dec. 30, at Johnson’s Funeral Home in
San Angelo. Interment will be held at 12:15 p.m. in the Sonora
Cemetery. Myrtis was born on Nov. 28, 1912, in Union Parish, La., and
as a young girl, moved with her family to San Angelo, Texas. After
graduating high school, she worked for the Tom Green County
Treasurer. In 1931, she married Ben F. Mittel, a rancher in Sutton
County. After 40 years of ranch life in Sutton and Coryell counties,
Myrtis was preceded in death by her husband in 1971. During her 20
years in Coryell County, Myrtis owned and operated a general
merchandise store in Evant, Texas. While living there, she served her
community and her church with her love for music as a pianist and
organist. In 1972, she moved back to San Angelo to join her family.
She later married Dr. Charles E. Courtion, a longtime resident of San
Angelo. He preceded her in death in 1979, and she is survived by his
daughter, May Helen Courtion of Kerrville, Texas. Myrtis is survived
by her three children, daughter Marilyn Mangum and husband Charles of
Austin, Texas, son Ben R. Mittel and wife Peggy of Gatesville, Texas,
and daughter Melinda Jordan and husband Jerry of San Antonio, Texas.
Also, she is survived by many grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Myrtis was a member of College Hills Baptist Church in San Angelo and
will be lovingly remembered for her service in the community to the
family shelter, Shannon Memorial Hospital, the Literary Council and
homebound ministries. 
 
Johnson’s Funeral Home 

SUE THOMAS HARALSON 

Sue Thomas Haralson HOBBS, N.M. — Sue Thomas “Nanna” Haralson, 84,
began her eternal walk with the Lord, Christmas Eve, Dec. 24, 2004. A
funeral service will be held at 2 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 28, in the
Chapel of Hope with the Rev. Charles Farina officiating. Sue was born
Aug. 14, 1920, in Shiro, Texas, to William Jefferson Thomas and Susie
Donaho Thomas. They moved to Bronte, Texas, in 1920 where she
attended school. She was a nurse prior to meeting and marrying D.L.
“Del” Haralson, the love of her life, in 1955. Sue and Del made their
home in San Angelo, Texas, and spent many happy years together riding
Palomino show horses, traveling and entertaining her sister Mary Lee
Thomas Ford. Sue was proud of her Texas heritage; in fact, a great
grand uncle, “David Thomas” was the first Attorney General for the
Republic of Texas under Sam Houston and was one of the original
signers of the Texas Declaration of Independence. Her father and
mother; four brothers, Theodore, Eugene, Franklin and Hampton; one
sister Mary Lee Thomas Ford; and nephew Thomas Wayne Ford preceded
Sue in death. The family wishes to thank Hobbs Health Care and their
wonderful staff and care givers, Vista Care Hospice and Dr. Lampley
and all the vast friends that came into her life. Sue, “Nanna,” is
survived and will be greatly missed by her son Gaylon Lovelady and
wife Linda; loving grandchildren, Jason Lovelady of Florida,
Dadrianne Lovelady Leuschner of Big Spring, Texas, and Adrianne
Lovelady of Abilene, Texas; great-grandchildren James Lovelady of
Florida, and Alex Leuschner of Big Spring, Texas; nephew, Don and
wife Shirley Thomas of San Angelo, Texas; niece, Anita Thomas Foster
of San Angelo, Texas; all her loving and caring grand nieces and
nephews who she had such loving memories of. The family suggests
memorials to Vista Care Hospice. 
 
Chapel of Hope Funeral Home 

CLARA A DIERSCHKE 

BIG SPRING — Clara A. Dierschke, 88, of St. Lawrence, passed away in
a Stanton Care Center on Saturday, Dec. 25, 2004. Rosary was at 7
p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 28, 2004, at the Nalley-Pickle & Welch Rosewood
Chapel in Big Spring. Mass of the Christian Burial will be held at 2
p.m. on Wednesday, Dec. 29, 2004, at the St. Lawrence Catholic Church
in St. Lawrence, Texas, with the Rev. Bernard Getigan officiating.
Burial will follow in the St. Lawrence Cemetery. Clara was born on
Jan. 31, 1916, to Joseph and Annie Fayte Malinak in Shiner, Texas.
She graduated from Shiner High School. Clara was a leather tooler for
many years, working on saddles and other leather goods. She married
Bernard “Ben” Dierschke on Dec. 28, 1949, in Shiner. To this union,
one son was born, Alan. Ben and Clara lived and farmed in the
community of St. Lawrence. Ben preceded her in death on Aug. 5, 1996.
She enjoyed baking, raising a garden and listening and dancing to
polka music. Clara was a member of the St. Lawrence Catholic Church
and the St. Theresa Alter Society. Besides her husband and parents;
one brother, Ed, preceded her in death. Survivors are her son, Alan
J. Dierschke of St. Lawrence; one sister, Adel Kruse of Victoria,
Texas; one brother and sister-in-law, Frank and Floy Malinak of
Marietta, Ga.; two sisters-in-law, Cora Dierschke of San Angelo and
Elizabeth Truman of Houston; and numerous nieces and nephews.
Pallbearers will be Bob Fulton, Chris Hirt, Mike Batla, Wayne Jansa,
David Weishuhn and Kervin Frysak. Memorials can be made to the
Glasscock County Volunteer EMS, P. O. Box 55, Garden City, Texas,
79739 or to a charity of choice. Alan would like to thank all of the
staff of Stanton Nursing and Rehabilitation Center for the care they
gave Clara during her stay there. Online condolences can be made at:
www.npwelch.com. 
 
Nalley-Pickle & Welch Funeral Home & Crematory 

JUANITA LORAINE BROWDER O'CONNOR 

Juanita Loraine Browder O’Connor BALLINGER — Juanita Loraine Browder
O’Connor, 85, of Ballinger passed away Tuesday morning, Dec. 28,
2004, in a local nursing home. She was born to James Hardy and Adah
Mae Simmons Browder, Nov. 14, 1919, in Wichita Falls, Texas. She grew
up near Bangs, Texas, and graduated from Bangs High School in 1938.
She received a bachelor’s degree in education in 1942 from NTSU and a
master’s degree from Howard Payne College in 1957. She joined the war
effort in 1942, working at Consolidated Vultee in Fort Worth, Texas,
building airplanes including B-52s. After the war, she taught in
public schools in Texas, Montana and Kansas for 12 years. Juanita
joined the Texas Agriculture Extension Service as the Kerr County
Home Demonstration Agent in 1960. She transferred to Runnels County
in September 1966, retiring from that position in 1983 after 23 years
service. Membership and awards include: membership First Baptist
Church, Ballinger; president of the Mary Martha Sunday School Class
1996 to 2000; Order of the Eastern Star, Past Worthy Matron, 50 year
life member 1/19/1988; lifetime member of the Texas State Teacher’s
Association; member of the Texas and American Home Economists
Association; member of the National Association of Extension Home
Economists, past District 7 Director; recipient of the Distinguished
Service Award 1973; member of Delta Kappa Gamma, charter member of
Theta Omicron, past president, Delta Kappa Gamma Certificate of
Appreciation 1984; Theta Omicron Achievement Award 1990; member
National Federation of Business of Professional Women’s Clubs; past
District 7 Director, past president Ballinger B&PW; member Ballinger
Women’s Club, past president Ballinger Women’s Club; charter member
of Epsilon Sigma Phi, Extension Service Honorary Fraternity,
recipient Certificate of Meritorious Service from Alpha Zeta Chapter,
Dec. 15, 1981, Epsilon Sigma Phi Award for Outstanding Service 1983;
Ballinger Civic Garden Club, president 1997-1998; member of the Board
of Directors Christmas in April; member Commission of 1976, Ballinger
Centennial; Texas Sesquicentennial; member Steering Committee Texas
State Festival of Ethnic Culture & Arts and Crafts Show; member City
of Ballinger Logo Committee; member of Ballinger Humane Society;
recognized in Outstanding and Distinguished Personalities of the
South 1973; and charter member of the Ballinger Quilting Club, which
benefits Meals on Wheels and the Ballinger Senior Citizens Center.
Mrs. O’Connor was preceded in death by her parents; and her brother
James Hardy “Bud” Browder, Jr. She is survived by her daughter,
Elizabeth O’Connor of Ballinger. Thanks to Heritage Oaks Estate,
Runnels County Rehabilitation and Nursing Center, Dr. Karen
Rightmire, Dr. Christine Truitt and VistaCare Hospice. Funeral
service will be held at 2 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 30, at the First
Baptist Church. Graveside service will follow at 4 p.m. in the Bangs
Cemetery. 
 
Rains-Seale Funeral Home 

KAREN MARTINA GEARHART FENDER 

SAN ANGELO — Karen Martina Gearhart Fender, 66, died Sunday, Dec.
26, 2004, after an extended illness. A memorial service will be at 11
a.m. Thursday, Dec. 30, at First United Methodist Church, San Angelo,
with the Rev. Nathaniel Hankins presiding. Karen was born March 25,
1938, to Horace William Gearhart and Juanita Loree Smith Gearhart in
Lockney, Texas. Karen was raised in Plainview and later attended
Texas Tech University, when she married Johnny C. Fender, a
lieutenant in the U.S. Air Force. In 1984, Johnny and Karen moved to
San Angelo, where he retired as base commander of Goodfellow Air
Force Base. They had been married 47 years at the time of Karen’s
death. Karen was a warm and loving wife and mother. Her greatest
ministry was providing a joyous home for her family. In service to
others, she volunteered in various capacities some of which include
Girl Scout leader, PTA boards and Officers’ Wives’ Club. Her talented
gifts of sewing, cooking and decorating showed through in all she did
for friends and family. Her favorite hobbies included spending
quality time with her bridge and mah-jongg groups. Much like her
father before her, Karen never met a stranger. She brought smiles of
joy to all who grew to know her, and that memory stays with us. She
is survived by her husband, Johnny Fender; two daughters, Laura J.
Harkey and her husband, Benny, of San Angelo, and Elizabeth L. Hollis
and her husband, Edwin, of Victoria; and four grandchildren, Michael
J. Inmon, Amber D. Inmon, Sterling L. Harkey and Jacob L. Harkey.
Karen was preceded in death by her parents, Horace and Juanita
Gearhart; and her brother, Jerry Gearhart. The family requests that
in lieu of flowers, memorials be made to the Methodist Assistance
Fund or the Methodist Youth Fund at First United Methodist Church,
San Angelo, Texas. 

 
Johnson’s Funeral Home 

FESTUS ALTON ELROD 

SAN ANGELO — Festus Alton Elrod went home to his heavenly father on
Sunday, Dec. 26, 2004, at the age of 79. He will be deeply missed by
friends and family. Festus was a loving husband, father and papaw who
devoted his time to church and family. A graduate of Texas Tech
University with a B.A. in Electrical Engineering, his career spanned
more than 30 years in the telecommunications industry where he
retired in 1987 from GTE Corporation as Senior Staff Engineer. He was
a member and Deacon of the First Baptist Church in San Angelo. During
World War II, he proudly served his country in the Asian-Pacific area
as a sailor in the U.S. Navy. Stationed aboard the USS Midway/St. lo
carrier, he received four battle stars for combat engagements from
Spain to Leyete, two Presidential Unit Citations (the unit equivalent
of the Navy Cross), and the Purple Heart. He was preceded in death by
his parents; sister, Joyce Lindsey of Abilene; and daughter, Sheila
Gay Elrod. Survivors include his wife of more than 50 years,
Willofae; son, Gary; and daughter, Diana Hoelscher and husband Mike,
all of San Angelo. Survivors also include brother, Lowell Elrod of
Baton Rouge, La.; grandchildren, Eric Elrod, Wes Noyd and Sheila
Frances Elrod; and one great-grandchild, Kayleigh Noyd. Festus will
be truly missed by his family and all who knew him. The family
extends a special thank you to Hospice and friends who cared for him
during his illness and ask that memorials be made to a favorite
charity. Funeral service will be at 11 a.m. Wednesday, Dec. 29, 2004,
in Johnson’s Funeral Home Chapel with Dr. Kyle Reese officiating.
Graveside service will follow in Lawnhaven Memorial Gardens. A family
visitation will be from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 28, at
Johnson’s Funeral Home. Pallbearers will be D.G. Williams, Wes Noyd,
Eric Elrod, Gerald Lackey, Roger Anderson and John Broome. 


 
Johnson’s Funeral Home 

FORTUNATO "FORTE" SAUCEDA GARCIA 

BALLINGER — Fortunato “Forte” Sauceda Garcia Sr. was called by the
Lord on Saturday, December 25, 2004. He was born on Oct. 14, 1926, to
Cruz and Valentina Garcia in Ballinger. He lived in the area most of
his life. He was a retired barber and offshore oil rig welder. He was
a Catholic, and member of St. Mary Catholic Church in Ballinger, and
most recently, Sacred Heart Cathedral in San Angelo. He was a member
of the Knights of Columbus and Guadalupanos. He is survived by
daughter, JoAnna Garcia Hambright of Abilene; sons, Pete and Lois
Garcia of Austin, Robert “Bobby” and Margaret Garcia of Austin, Eddie
Garcia of Irving, Fortunato “Forte” Garcia Jr. and Maria of Irving
and Rudy Joe and Veronica Garcia of Irving. He is also survived by 11
grandchildren. The family requests that donations be made to
Hendricks Hospital Hospice Center in Abilene in lieu of flowers. Mr.
Garcia’s celebration of life will be held at 10 a.m. Thursday, Dec.
30, at St. Mary Church in Ballinger. Rosary will be prayed at 7 p.m.
on Wednesday, Dec. 29, at Rains-Seale Funeral Home in Ballinger. The
Garcia family wishes to thank all of his friends for their prayers
and support, and a special appreciation to all the medical and
nursing staff and caregivers. 
 
Rains-Seale Funeral Home 

Gerardo "JERRY" SANCHEZ ALMAZAN 

SONORA — Gerardo “Jerry” Sanchez Almazan, 43, passed away Sunday,
Dec. 26, 2004, at his residence. Service will be at 2 p.m. Thursday
Dec. 30, at St. Ann’s Catholic Church with burial to follow in Sonora
Cemetery. Jerry was born June 26, 1961, in Dimmitt, and was a
lifetime resident of Sonora. He was a Baptist and a truck driver. He
is survived by his mother Noemi Sanford of Sonora; his father Roberto
Almazan and wife Albina of Hereford; godson Fabian Lingo Sanford of
Sonora; goddaughter Marina Ramos of Grape Creek; brothers, Lingo
Sanford of Sonora and Robert Almazan Jr. of Florida; sisters, Sandra
Villalobos and husband Michael of San Antonio and Amanda Gonzales and
husband Benny Gonzales of Hereford; sister-in-law Jo Ann Levario of
Sonora; and niece and nephews Hannah Gonzales, Zach Gonzales, Michael
Villalobos, Elijah Villalobos and Fabian Lingo Sanford. 
 
Kerbow Funeral Home 

MINNIE B Camp 

SAN ANGELO — Minnie B. Camp, 90, of San Angelo passed away Monday,
Dec. 27, 2004, in a local hospital. Graveside service will be held at
2 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 30, in the Shattuck Memorial Cemetery in
Shattuck, Okla., with Pastor Gene Land officiating. Minnie was born
Jan. 14, 1914, in Shattuck, Okla., to George and Amelia Sinner. She
owned and operated Ballinger Florist in Ballinger, Texas. Her
husband, Melvin T. Camp, preceded her in death. She was a Methodist.
Her nieces, Linda Broom and Patricia Cline; and nephews, Robert Gray
and Stephen Gray, survive her. In lieu of flowers, please make
donations to Hospice of San Angelo or Regency House nursing facility
in San Angelo. 
 
Johnson’s Funeral Home 

MELVIN E MOREFIELD 

GEORGETOWN — Melvin E. Morefield, 78, of Georgetown, Texas, formerly
of San Angelo, Texas, died Tuesday, Dec. 28, 2004, in Georgetown,
Texas. He was born June 9, 1926, in Terre Haute, Ind., to Claude and
Grace Densmore Morefield. He married Patricia A. Willeford Morefield
on June 8, 1979, in Arlington, Texas. Mr. Morefield was a veteran of
the Navy, Army and U.S. Air Force. He was a member of the Georgetown
Church of Christ. The three things he loved the most were his wife,
Patricia, the military and baseball. He is survived by his wife,
Patricia; his children, Debbie Burton and husband David of Sachse,
Texas, Nancy Ranson and husband Doug of Kansas City, Kan., Jean Smith
of Arlington, Texas, Billy Oneal of Kaufman, Texas, Karen Scott and
husband Brent of Evergreen, Colo., and Paula Harle and husband James
of Georgetown, Texas; 13 grandchildren; numerous nieces and nephews;
and a sister Ruth Schalburg of Terra Haute, Ind. He was preceded in
death by five brothers and one sister. Memorials are suggested to
Meals on Wheels in Georgetown or San Angelo. A funeral service will
be held at 4 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 29, in The Gabriel’s Funeral
Chapel, 393 N. IH 35, Georgetown, Texas, 78628. 512-869-8888.
Interment will be Friday, Dec. 31, at 11 a.m. in the Dallas-Fort
Worth National Cemetery, 2000 Mountain Creek Pkwy., Dallas, Texas,
75211. 
 
The Gabriel’s Funeral Chapel 

December 30 

JUDY SETTLES 

SAN ANGELO — Judy Settles, age 55, of San Angelo, passed away
Monday, Dec. 27, 2004, at her residence. She was born on Dec. 21,
1949, in San Angelo. Judy worked as a banker at Texas Commerce Bank
in San Angelo for 17 years. She was preceded in death by her mother,
Edith Atwood. Judy is survived by her daughter Candace Sage of
Austin; father Wilson Atwood of San Angelo; and birth mother and
stepfather Patricia and Richard Merchant of Houston. Graveside
service will be Wednesday, Dec. 29, at 1:30 p.m. in Fairmount
Cemetery with the Rev. Buddy Trull officiating. The family extends
special thanks to Hospice of San Angelo and asks that in lieu of
flowers, donations be made to: Hospice of San Angelo, P.O. Box 471,
San Angelo, TX 76902. 

 
Johnson’s Funeral Home 

RUBY DELIA GOETZ KOSIK 

Ruby delia goetz kosik SAN ANGELO — Ruby Delia Goetz Kosik, 86, of
San Angelo passed away Monday, Dec. 27, 2004, in a local nursing home
after a long illness. Ruby was born Nov. 5, 1918, to Dick and Augusta
Grosshans Goetz in Rowena. Ruby married R.W. “Bob” Kosik March 30,
1946; he preceded her in death on Oct. 31, 1975. They farmed in Miles
and Mereta, and she also worked in the Wall school cafeteria. She
retired in 1987 and was on the board of directors of the Eola
Community Center and treasurer of Eola Extension Homemakers Club.
Ruby was confirmed in Miles Lutheran Church and later became a member
of Mount Calvary Lutheran Church at Eola. Ruby played the organ and
taught Sunday school for many years. Ruby had many hobbies, some
including sewing, needlework, cooking and growing a beautiful flower
garden. Her favorite pets were her dog and kitties. Ruby had many
friends and relatives, some include Laurene Goetz, Marylyn and David
Smith, Paul and Allison, Brad and Lauren Tonne, Melissa Durst,
Christopher, Anthony and Kandice, Sharon and Danny Goetz, Chad Chase
and Carson Goetz, Art and Gerri Goetz, Travis and Jamie, Ashley and
Madison Goetz, Kerry and Gail Goetz, Tim and Dalanna Goetz, Justin
Goetz, Correy Goetz, Travis, Cody, and Whitney Robertson, June and
Jim Heinen, John Heinen, Alepsa and Brianna Goetz, Billy and Edwina
Goetz, Robert and Deanna Fuessel, Joann and Keith Ellwanger, Ronald
and Carmen Fuessel, Johanna Fuessel, Elvira and Richard Adams, Marcus
and Missy Adams, Miranda McKenzie, Merissa, Michelle and Bobby
Jacoby, Nacona, Tate and Eli, Robyn and Charles Leich, Dakota,
Setson, Waylon, Doris Kosik, Alfred and Doris Kosik, Justin, Ronda,
Nicholas, Amber Kosik, Kevin, McKenzie Clarnos, Grant, Jason and
Tiffiney Portor, Austin, Nita and Leon Tieman, Wayne and Christina
Psenick, Frieda Franks, Joy, Evelyn Pearse, Cristi, David, Walker,
Morris Dean, Ann and Jennifer Hammock. Service will be at noon
Thursday, Dec. 30, in the Johnson’s Funeral Home Chapel with Tom
Baden officiating. Burial will follow in Lawnhaven Memorial Gardens.
Pallbearers for the service will be nephews Robert Fuessel, Art
Goetz, Danny Goetz, Kerry Goetz, Tim Goetz and Alfred Kosik. The
family wishes to extend special thanks to all the doctors and nurses
at Shannon Medical Center and Baptist Memorials Hospital for all
their loving care for our special aunt and sister-in-law. Thank you
also goes out to the staff at Rio Concho Terrace and all the friends
Ruby made there. 

 
Johnson’s Funeral Home 

December 31 

RONNIE LEE BUBENIK 

SAN ANGELO — Ronnie Lee Bubenik, 64, died Wednesday, Dec. 29, 2004,
in a Fort Worth hospital. Mr. Bubenik was a retired oil production
consultant, a member of the St. Stephen’s Catholic Church and the
Knights of Columbus. Ronnie was a loving and supportive son, husband,
father and grandfather. Survivors include wife, Gloria Bubenik of
Mineral Wells; daughters, Sherrie Reynolds of Weatherford, Marjorie
Lee Deniz of Penn Valley, Calif., and Connie L. Bubenik of Mineral
Wells; father, Albert Bubenik of Weatherford; grandchildren, Jordan
Reynolds, Jacob Reynolds, Justin Deniz, Caleb Lee Bubenik, Matthew
Deniz and Luke Deniz. He was preceded in death by his mother, Marie
Bubenik. Rosary will be at 6 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 2, 2005, at the
funeral home. Service will be at 10 a.m. Monday, Jan. 3, at St.
Stephen’s Catholic Church in Weatherford. 
 
Galbreaith-Pickard Funeral Chapel 

LEE RUBY MARGARET BELL WILLIAMS 

SAN ANGELO — Mrs. Lee Ruby Margaret Bell Williams, 92, of San Angelo
passed away Tuesday, Dec. 28, 2004. Ruby was born on July 8, 1912, to
Mills Bell and Ruth Patrick Bell in San Angelo, and remained a
lifelong resident of San Angelo. Ruby had two brothers, Ernest and
Roscoe; and one sister Ethel. She attended San Angelo public schools
and select courses at Angelo Junior College. Ruby was employed as an
operator by General Telephone Company for 16 years. On June 16, 1936,
she married Lee Williams of San Angelo. They had two children,
daughter Betsey Ann; and son Ronald Lee. In her healthy years, Ruby
was an active member of the Hillcrest Baptist Church, PTA for her
children, Angelo Rebecca Lodge No. 264, B.P.O. Does No. 130 and the
Pulliam Home Demonstration Club. Ruby was preceded in death by her
husband, Lee Williams; parents, Ruth and Mills Bell; sister and
brother-in-law, Ethel and Tom Collier; two brothers, Ernest and
Roscoe Bell and sister-in-law Betty Bell; and nephew and wife Tommy
and Faye Collier. Ruby is survived by her daughter, Betsey DeVore
Garvin of San Angelo; son and wife, Ronald and Deborah Williams of
Odessa; grandson and wife, Henry Lee and Lisa Garvin of Alamosa,
Colo.; granddaughter and husband, Rebecca and Michael Denson of
Lubbock; great-grandchildren, Lee Williams and Kaitlyn Renee Garvin
of Alamosa, Colo.; and nephew and wife, Dan and Barbara Bell of Las
Vegas. Family visitation will be from 6 p.m. until 7 p.m., Friday,
Dec. 31, at Johnson’s Funeral Home. Graveside service will be at 2
p.m. Saturday, Jan. 1, in Belvedere Cemetery with Mills Caraway
officiating. 

 
Johnson’s Funeral Home 

SAMUEL V ALONZO 

SAN ANGELO — Samuel V. Alonzo Sr., 74, of San Angelo passed away
Wednesday, Dec. 29, 2004, in a local hospital. Family visitation will
be from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. Friday, Dec. 31, in the Robert Massie
Riverside Chapel with a Rosary service at 5:30 p.m. Following
Samuel’s wishes, the family will have a private service on Saturday,
Jan. 1, 2005. Samuel was born March 12, 1930, in San Angelo to
Enrique and Esther Alonzo. He worked hard and made sure his family
was supported well. Samuel will be greatly missed. He was preceded in
death by his parents; two brothers, David Alonzo and Daniel Alonzo;
and a sister, Raquel Lozano. Survivors include his wife, Adelina
“Lina” Jacques Alonzo; three sons, Sam Alonzo and Joseph Andrade,
both of San Angelo, and James Andrade of Austin; two daughters, Kelly
Ann Alonzo of Austin and Carole Alonzo and husband Leo of Odessa; two
special daughters-in-law, Noamie Cruz of San Angelo and Arci Ruiz of
Austin; brothers, A.V. Alonzo and wife Betty of San Angelo, and Henry
Alonzo and wife Esther of Chino Hills, Calif.; one sister, Sara
Alonzo of San Angelo; 10 grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren;
and one special friend, Oscar Flores. “Vaya Con Dios” Memorials may
be made to Pet Guardian Angelo, 5841 N. Grape Creek Road, San Angelo,
TX 76901. Mr. Alonzo’s obituary may be viewed online at
www.RobertMassie.com. 
 
Robert Massie Funeral Home 

JOE M ASH 

SAN ANGELO — Joe Michael Ash, 59, died early Thursday in a local
hospital. Service will be at 2 p.m. Friday, Dec. 31, in Fairmount
Cemetery with the Rev. M.W. “Skip” Hill officiating. Joe was born
Jan. 18, 1945, in Anson to Ruth and Eris Ash and lived in Albany
early in his life. A graduate of Central High School, he was a long-
time resident of San Angelo and had a great love for this community,
particularly the friends he made through church. Joe was a dedicated
Christian and anyone who knew him could tell how much he loved Christ
because that devotion was reflected in his way of life. He also loved
music and worked to meld those two passions — his faith and his
music. Late in life, Joe also found an enthusiasm for composing songs
that honored his faith in the Lord. To have known Joe truly was a
blessing, and we all will miss him very much. His father, Eris Lee
Ash, preceded Joe in death. He is survived by his mother, Ellen Ruth
Ash of San Angelo; two brothers, Lee Allen Ash and his wife,
Rhuenell, of San Angelo, and Kenneth David Ash and his wife,
Randelle, of Carrollton; a niece, Allyson Reynolds Dixon of San
Angelo; a nephew, Edward Ash of San Marcos; and two great-nephews,
Michael Dixon of Bedford and Eric Reynolds of Wichita, Kan. 
 
Robert Massie Funeral Home