Matagorda County Obituaries
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Emil Fabrygel Jr.

Emil Fabrygel Jr., always known as Bubba, passed away on Friday, September 29, 2023. He was 69 years old.

Bubba resided in El Campo, Texas, after living most of his life in Midfield, Texas. Prior to retirement he had been employed at the Danevang Co-Op.

Bubba was the son of the late Emil and Della Fabrygel.

He is survived by his two sisters, Carmen Koshnoodi and Jackie Albright.

A private interment will be held at Bay City Cemetery, where Bubba will be laid to rest near his parents.

Bay City Tribune, October 8, 2023
 


Mary Ellen Fallis

July 7, 1926 - February 25, 2023

Mary Ellen Fallis, 96, of Bay City passed away February 25, 2023.  She was born July 7, 1926 in Indianapolis, Indiana to the late Louis Francis Christman and Margaret Helen Yoakum Christman.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband Jesse Lyndon Fallis.

Survivors include daughter Vicki Fallis Barosh and husband Roger; son John L. Fallis and wife Laura; grandchildren Landon Bradshaw and wife Amy, Jessie Fallis and Jackson Falls and great granddaughter Maggie Bradshaw.

Funeral service will be 10:00 AM Thursday, March 2, 2023 at St. Mark’s Episcopal Church with Rev. Jack Meyer officiating.  A private graveside service for the family will be held at Forest Park Westheimer Cemetery in Houston, Texas.

In her honor, please make memorial donations to the Organ Fund at St. Mark’s Episcopal Church; 2200 Ave E; Bay City, TX 77414.

Taylor Bros. Funeral Home
 


Ted Wayne Farrar

October 14, 1934 - January 27, 2022

Ted Wayne Farrar, 87, of Bay City, TX, went home to be with the Lord on January 27, 2022. He was born in Lillie, LA on October 14, 1934 to Christopher Columbus Farrar, Jr. and Pearl Moore Farrar. He was married to Lorena R. Smith on September 19, 1955.

He joined the US Navy in 1954 and served for 4 years, mostly aboard the USS Yorktown and then in Millington, TN.  He then served an additional 4 years in the US Air Force in New Mexico, Fort Worth, TX and Taiwan, first as an air traffic controller then in missile operations and top-secret documents.  After leaving the military, he attended Louisiana Tech University and earned a BS in accounting and then earned an MBA in Business Administration while working at Murphy Oil in El Dorado, AR.  In Jan. 1974, he went to work for the Dept. of Treasury in Dallas, TX, where he remained until he retired in Dec. 1995. During these years, he was honored by the Dept. of Treasury for his many other activities.  He was a volunteer probation officer for the Dallas Juvenile Detention Center; served on the board of the Texas Board of Prison Ministry Hospitality House in Huntsville, TX; was a member of the Texas Baptist Men’s Disaster Relief Team (serving during hurricane Alicia in Corpus Christi, and at DFW during the crashes of Delta flights 191 and 1141 among others); and served on the Board of the Dallas Treasury Credit Union from 1981-1988.

Ted had a love of life and was active in the Baptist Church wherever he lived, serving as a Deacon and as a youth Sunday School teacher, as well as on several committees over the years. He also was very involved with the Bill Glass Prison Ministry for over 25 years, serving as coordinator for many prison weekends around the United States and witnessing to many inmates over the years. Ted also made several mission trips within the US and to foreign countries with the Christian Motorcyclists Association, his local church and other Christian organizations.

He also had a lifelong love of sports and was an active participant in baseball, softball, and senior softball-even playing on two different age 75 and over teams-and finally taking up golf at the age of 72, becoming an avid golfer and making a hole-in-one at age 80.

Ted was preceded into Heaven by both of his parents; one grandson, Tyler Anthony Farrar of Bay City, TX; two brothers, James Roy Farrar of Shreveport, LA and John Clark Farrar of Lobelville, TN and one sister, Betty Lou Farrar Caswell of Ballwin, MO.

He is survived by his wife of 66 years, Lorena Rose Smith Farrar; two sons, Marvin Wayne Farrar of Keller, TX, and Terry Richard Farrar and wife Dianne of Bay City, TX; grandchildren, Brittney Michelle Farrar of Washington, D.C., Austin Daniel Farrar and Rylee Ann Farrar of Keller, TX and several nieces and nephews.

The family will receive friends and relatives beginning at 9:00 am Wednesday, February 2, 2022 at the First Baptist Church in Bay City.  Funeral services will begin at 10:00 am with Dr. Mike Zimmerman officiating. Interment will follow at Cedarvale Cemetery in Bay City.

Taylor Bros. Funeral Home                    Photos courtesy of Faye Cunningham


 


Judith "Judy" Lorain Farrer

July 23, 1945 - May 7, 2023

Judith “Judy” Sowden Farrer, 77, of Bay City, passed away May 7, 2023. She was born July 23, 1945 in Houston, TX to the late Jerry Frank and Mary Sowden.

Judy is preceded in death by her parents; daughter Eunice Lorene Farrer; brother James “Jim” Sowden, Sr.; half brother Jerry Terry Sowden; mother-in-law Ellen “Nanny” Farrer, and sister-in-law June Sowden. She is survived by her loving husband of 56 years, Eldon “Gene” Farrer; daughters, Marrie Evans, Darla Plant (Robert) and Bobbi Denn (Danny); grandchildren Troy Evans, Lorain Evans, Samantha Evans, Brittany Plant and Micheal Plant; sisters-in law Eunice (Faye) Cunningham and Nancy Sowden, numerous nieces, nephews and great-great nieces of nephew.

Special thanks to the hospice team of Angels of Bay City.

The family will receive friends and relatives beginning at 1:00 pm Tuesday, May 16, 2023 at Calvary Baptist Church. Funeral services will begin at 2:00 pm with Rev. Lan Par-Due officiating. Interment will follow at Roselawn Memorial Park in Van Vleck. Pallbearers are Mitch Thames, Lynn Grebe, Vic Collins, Jason Patterson, Rod Sala and James Orr. Honorary pallbearers are Paul Lopez Nate McDonald, Mike Denn and Terry Farrar.

Taylor Bros. Funeral Home                   Photo courtesy of Faye Cunningham


 


Clyde Everett Farthing Jr.

February 3, 1938 – April 30, 2023

Clyde Everett Farthing Jr. passed away April 30, 2023, following a short illness. Everett was born on February 3, 1938 in Bay City, Texas, to the late Clyde E. Farthing and Ora Fella Farthing. Everett graduated from Tidehaven High School and attended Wharton County Jr. College and graduated from Texas A & M University. During his high school and college years, he was very active in the rodeo world. He enjoyed and participated in calf roping, bull riding, and bareback and saddle bronc riding. He had the opportunity to attend and compete in the National College Finals in Las Vegas in August, 1962.

Everett’s work career brought him many opportunities. After graduation from Texas A & M, he began teaching at Rock Island High School, El Campo High School, and Bay City High School. He worked in the oil business and owned and operated Outdoor Service Center in El Campo & Matagorda.

He is survived by his son, Duane (Donna) Farthing of Houston; grandson, Blake Farthing of El Campo; granddaughter, Jenna (Zane) Kallus of Clemville; great-grandchildren, Odin and Faeryn of El Campo; brother, Tommy Farthing of Markham; sisters, Anne Thompson of Bay City and Jan Hosman of Eagle Lake; special mention of his adopted grandchild, Charles (Tre) Beasley, whom he shared an unbreakable bond with later in life.

Everett was preceded in death by his infant daughter, Michelle; and son, Edward.

Memorial services will be held at a later date.

Bay City Tribune, May 3, 2023
 


Ronald Eugune Fehmel

August 27, 1946 - November 25, 2021

Ronald Eugene Fehmel was born August 27th, 1946 in Bonham, Texas to Bill and Hazel Fehmel, the youngest of their 4 children. He began his journey to Heaven and left his earthly life on November 25, 2021. Ronnie graduated from Bay City High School in 1965 and attended Lamar University before returning back to Bay City in 1967, where he was a lifelong resident.

Ronnie had a zest for life, a larger than life personality, and he certainly lived his to the fullest. He became a pilot at the age of 16 and had flown over 40,000 hours prior to his crash in 2010. Aviation was in his blood, as his father Bill had been a pilot instructor during WW II and began the legacy of Fehmel Dusting Service in 1948 in Bay City, Tx. A true pioneer and icon among the crop dusting community, flying was Ronnie’s absolute passion. To most people, the sky is the limit…to those who love aviation, the sky is home. His storied career with Fehmel Dusting spanned over 50 years, dedicated to the farming industry in Matagorda County. Ronnie received the TAAA Operator of the Year award in 2010 for the countless hours flying his AgCat. He was an avid supporter of the Matagorda County Fair and Livestock Association, a member of St. Mark’s Episcopal Church, and a friend to all who knew him. He enjoyed sharing good times with family and friends, traveling, and riding motorcycles. He will be greatly missed.

Ronnie is survived by his son Jerrod Fehmel and grandson Dustin, daughter Wendy Kirkby, husband Brett, and grandson Logan, son Jonathan Fehmel, wife Susan, and granddaughters Haylee and Peyton, stepson Jimmie Pavlu, wife Gina, and grandson Chad, stepdaughter Jill Oates and grandchildren Cameron, Connor, and Alana, stepson Joel Pavlu, wife Jennifer, and grandchildren Addisyn and Mason, sister Eleanor Deuel, husband Les, sister Rebecca Phillips, sisters-in-law Margaret Fehmel, Novie Smith, and Clydie Tinnin, brothers-in-law, Mark Tinnin, wife Karen, and Ben Tinnin, wife Rosa as well as numerous nieces and nephews, and his devoted caregivers over the past 11 years.

Ronnie was preceded in death by his beloved wife Jean Tinnin Fehmel, his parents, and his brother Bill Fehmel.

Visitation will be from 9:00 AM until 10:00 AM Thursday, December 2, 2021 at Nichols Street Church of Christ, 1200 Nichols Ave, Bay City, TX 77414.  Funeral service will be at 10:30 AM at St. Mark’s Episcopal Church, 2200 Ave E, Bay City, TX 77414 with Rev. Jack Meyer officiating.  Interment will follow at Cedarvale Cemetery.  Pallbearers will be Jeffrey Leget, Derrill Franzen, Shane Cornett, Kirby Savage, Billy Mayfield and Kevin McKissick .

Taylor Bros. Funeral Home                    Photo courtesy of Faye Cunningham


 


Annie Ferrell

October 19, 1926 ~ April 12, 2022

Annie Ferrell, 95, of West Columbia, Tx passed peacefully into the arms of Jesus on April 12, 2022. Annie was born on October 19, 1926, in Iago, Tx to Vaclov and Karolina Dloughy.

She was raised on her family’s farm until she graduated high school.  After graduation, Annie left the farm and traveled to California to live with her sister, Pat. It was there that she met her husband, Ben during WWII.  She and Ben were married on March 30, 1946. They moved back to Texas to be closer to family and started a landscaping business. In 1983, Ben passed away and Ann then joined her many friends at the First Baptist Church, West Columbia where they traveled the United States and Canada together for many years.

 Annie enjoyed her time with the garden club, family and grandkids. You would always find her beautiful face with a smile.

She is preceded in death by her parents, many siblings, husband Ben and daughter Laury.

 Her surviving relatives include her son, Alan (Melany), son-in-law Mark, grandchildren Brandon Ferrell (Ashley), Nathan Ferrell, Shawn Maroul (Leaha), Amanda Maroul, Jamie Mikulec and close niece Patricia Wislon.

The family will welcome friends and loved ones from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. Wednesday, April 20, 2022, at C.T. Baker & Sons Funeral Home in West Columbia.

Funeral services will be held Thursday, April 21, 2022, at 2:00 p.m. at First Baptist Church West Columbia, with interment to follow at Rose Lawn Memorial Park in Van Vleck, Tx.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in her memory to the Alzheimer's Association, web address Alz.org.

Baker Funeral Home, Van Vleck, Texas
 


Manuel Hernandez Figueroa

January 06, 1949 - October 07, 2021

Manuel Hernandez Figueroa, 72, of Bay City, passed away Thursday, October 7, 2021. He was born January 6, 1949 in Woodsboro, Texas to Manuel Figueroa and Fermanita Hernandez Figueroa.

Manuel was preceded in death by his parents; wife Refugia Guerrero Gonzales; 3 sisters and 1 brother. He is survived by his children Manuel Figueroa III, Antonio Figueroa, Victoria Flores, and Angela Figueroa, 3 sisters; 13 grandchildren and 11 great grandchildren.

The family will receive friends and relatives for visitation at 9:00am Saturday, October 16, 2021 at Taylor Bros. Funeral Home. Funeral services will begin at 10:00am with Rev. Tommy Griffin officiating. Interment will follow at Cedarvale Cemetery. Pallbearers are Manuel Figueroa III, Antonio Figueroa, Elias Trevino, Joe Trevino, Chris Trevino, Joel Garcia.

Taylor Bros. Funeral Home
 


Archie Lee Findley

November 18, 1938 – January 6, 2024

On the evening of January 6, 2024, Archie Lee Findley passed away peacefully in his home in Angleton Texas. Born to Myra Helen Combs and Archie Marion Findley in Matagorda County, Texas on November 18, 1938; Archie grew up in Bay City, Texas with his two siblings, Harriette June Findley and Melvin Thomas Findley.

In July 1958, Archie Lee joined the Armed Forces of the United States, serving as a sharpshooter in the Battery C 2d How Battalion 36 Artillery 4th U.S. Army based in Fort Sill, Oklahoma. His active-duty years were served in Germany in post WWII efforts supporting political transformation. He briefly returned to duty in 1963 with honorable release of duty in June 1964 receiving the Army Commendation Medal and the Expert Carbine Badge.

Archie entered law enforcement as a police officer for the city of Conroe, Texas in 1963, and later for League City Police Department. Law enforcement became his lifelong profession advancing to detective status focused on fraud investigations for the City of Lake Jackson, Texas.

From 1963-1970, Archie welcomed four daughters, Marcella Ann, Jo Lynda, Phyllis Marie and Heather Lee. From 1973-1982, welcomed a daughter and two sons, Stacy Lynn, Marty Jay, and Matthew Combs.

In 1978, Archie Lee married Lynda Jean Williams of Clute, Texas. Residing briefly in Brazoria County, while employed for the city of Lake Jackson Police Department. Archie supported his family performing offshore rig work and farm hand employment until then returning to law enforcement as a criminal detective in Bay City Texas. Archie completed his high school education and attended college classes for his law enforcement certifications. In 1999, Sergeant Archie Findley formally retired from law enforcement. Archie and Lynda later settled in Angleton, Texas where he resided until his death.

Although diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis early in his third decade, Archie thankfully established remission and enjoyed traveling, spending time with his friends and family, having BBQ’s, camping and fishing. He developed and enjoyed hobbies in leather work, wood burning crafts and photography. Archie was especially fond of his many pets that gave him comfort and companionship over his last years. With the progression of his MS so did his physical decline and increasing associated discomfort; limiting his abilities to enjoy outdoor activities. The Findley family takes comfort knowing Archie is at rest and pain free.

Archie is survived by his wife, Lynda Jean Findley; his children, Marcella Ann Calvo (Gary Calvo), Jo Lynda Findley, Phyllis Marie Wallace, Heather Lee Blanchard, Stacy Lynn Heidaker, Marty Jay Findley (Stacy Findley), and Matthew Combs Latzer Patrick Williams Findley; 12 grandchildren; and 18 great-grandchildren.

Archie Lee is preceded in death by his parents, Myra Helen (Toots) and Archie Marion Findley; his siblings, Harriette June Ashcraft and Melvin Thomas Findley; and his grandson, Travis Wayne Wallace.

Funeral services for Archie Lee will be held on Sunday, January 14, 2024, at Palms Funeral Home, 2300 E. Mulberry St., Angleton Texas 77515. Family visitation will be held from 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., with public visitation starting at 11:30. Funeral services will begin at 12:30 p.m., followed by a graveside ceremony at Angleton Cemetery, 328 Cemetery Rd., Angleton Texas 77515. Reception to follow.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests any donations be directed to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society or their preferred charity.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to the nurses of The Hospice Care Team (HTC) and The Brazoria County Combined Honor Guard.

Palms Funeral Home
 


Abelardo “Lalito” Garcia Flores

A Celebration of Life for Abelardo “Lalito” Garcia Flores, 83 of Palacios, will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Sat. (July 23) at Living Word Church in Palacios.

Lalito was born to Abelardo and Rosaura Flores on February 25, 1939 and he went to Heaven on July 7, 2022.

He was the oldest of his parents seven children (Thomas, Tony, Ophelia, Evangeline, Stella and Pilar).

He graduated from PHS in 1958 and was Valedictorian of the class.

He married Mary Ellen Garcia in 1962 and they had five children - Christine, Abraham, Enedina, Lisa and Naomi. Together they have 11 grandchildren and 3 great-grandchildren.

Palacios Beacon, July 20, 2022
 


Belinda Anna Bueno Flores

November 5, 1961 - June 12, 2022

Belinda Anna Bueno Flores, 60, of Bay City, Texas passed away Sunday, June 12, 2022. She was born November 5, 1961 in Kingsville, Texas to Demencio Bueno, Sr., and Esmeralda Lerma.

Belinda was a loving girlfriend, mother, grandmother, daughter, sister, and friend. For the last 5 years she was an administrative assistant at Texas Sod. She enjoyed spending time with her family, friends, and grandchildren. She also loved getting together with family and friends to have a good time, dancing, listening to music, watching the Dallas Cowboys, being around all her grandchildren, and being a photographer of the family. She loved her dog Sky, “her protector.” She touched so many lives and lit up the room with her smile. She always put others before herself. She was the definition of a ‘Superwoman” the strongest women to us. We will forever miss her.

She was preceded in death by her ex-husband, Juan Garcia Flores, Sr. She is survived by her boyfriend of 7 years, Ben Hernandez, Sr.; daughters, Cecilia Flores (David Solis); Patricia Flores (Michael Rivera); Laura Flores (Christopher Cunningham); son Juan Flores, Jr. (Mariah); brothers Daniel Bueno, Sr. (Teresa); Oscar Bueno, Sr. (Virginia), Demencio Bueno, Jr.; Armando Bueno, Sr.; sister Christina Avila (Rafael); grandchildren Steven Solis, Alexis Solis, Malorie Rodriguez, Liliana Franco, Markus Cook, Juliana Franco, Kage Rivera and Jaden Flores.

The family will receive friends and relatives for visitation at 9:00 am, Friday, June 17, 2022 at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church with a rosary beginning at 9:30 am. Mass of Christian Burial will begin at 10:00 am with Father Gabriel Espinosa officiating. Interment will follow at Cedarvale Cemetery in Bay City, Tx. Pallbearers for Ms. Flores will be Daniel Bueno, Jr., Joe Fernandez, Jr., Oscar Bueno, Jr., Gabriel Oros, Steven Solis and Markus Cook. Honorary Pallbearers will be Kage Rivera and Jaden Flores.

Taylor Bros. Funeral Home
 


Carlos Flores, Jr.

March 26, 1958 - February 18, 2022

Carlos Flores, Jr., 63, of Bay City passed away February 18, 2022.  He was born March 26, 1958 in Bay City to the late Carlos Flores, Sr. and Mary Villarreal Flores.

He served his country in the US Army for 2 years.  He was employed by the City of Bay City for20 years.

He was preceded in death by his parents Carlos Flores, Sr. and Mary V. Ramirez, he was preceded in death by his wife Rosemary Martinez, siblings Larry Flores and Helen Flores Ruiz and nieces Jessica Matthews and Jacklyn Charles.

Survivors include his children Victoria Camacho (Miguel), Joel Davalos (Navi) and Ruben Lewis (Alexandria); grandchildren Christina, Joey, Jaxson, Danielle, Isabelle, Gabrielle, Rosemary, Miguel, Joaquin, Lucia and Amilia, Raven; sister Janie Flores; brothers David Flores (Amy) and Arthur Flores; numerous nieces and nephews and his best friend Travis Nanez, Jr.

A rosary will be recited at 9:30 AM Wednesday, February 23, 2022 at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church.  Funeral Mass will be at 10:00 AM with Rev. Gabriel Espinosa officiating.  Interment will follow at Cedarvale Cemetery.  Pallbearers will be David Flores, Joey Martinez, Travis Nanez, Jr., Joe Ramos, Joel Davalos, and Joel Davalos, Jr.

Taylor Bros. Funeral Home & Bay City Tribune, February 23, 2022                  Photo courtesy of Faye Cunningham


 


Fabian Nicholas Flores

September 22, 1949 – January 24, 2022

Fabian Nicholas Flores was born to Nicholas B. Flores and Beatrice Gonzales Flores on September 22, 1949, in Bay City, Texas, and passed away January 24, 2022, in Charleston, South Carolina, he was 72 years old.

Visitation will be 5 - 7 p.m. Sunday, February 6, 2022, where a rosary will be recited at 6 p.m. at Grace Funeral Home, 2401 Houston Highway, Victoria with a Funeral Service at 9:30 a.m. Monday, February 7, 2022, at Grace Funeral Home with interment to follow at Resurrection Cemetery.

He was an avid hunter, enjoyed coaching in his younger days, and continued to be a fan of football, baseball, and NASCAR. He met his lifelong love Mary Ann in August 1969, and they were happily married for 52 years and blessed with two daughters. He started his career on a line crew for CP&L, continued his education at WCJC with an Associate Degree in Design, and retired as a Facility Designer with AstraZeneca in Frederick MD.

Lovingly known as Popo and Nick, he enjoyed his workshop and loved to bar-b-que, spending time with his grand and great-grand kids. He will be dearly loved and greatly missed...until we meet again.

Preceded in death by his parents Nicholas B. Flores & Beatrice G. Flores and his wife of fifty-two years Mary Ann Santellana Flores.

He is survived by his daughters Ann Marie Steinberg (Eric Wilhelm) and Sandra Flores-Parkhill; grandchildren Charles Steinberg Jr (Brittany), Brian Parkhill Jr (Nikki), Wyatt Parkhill (Norma), Nicholas Steinberg, Garrett Lee Parkhill, Dylan Steinberg, and Clare Parkhill; great grandchildren Mileigh Harvey, Ava Parkhill, Charleigh Steinberg, Ashleigh Steinberg, Easton Parkhill, and Charles Steinberg III; siblings Theresa Martinez (Charles III), Esperanza Flores, Joseph Flores, Lisa Flores (MJ), Catherine Firestone (Joel), and Julia Flores-Mills (Terry); nephews Patrick Flores (Gregory), Charles Martinez (Trevor), Andrew Flores, Nicholas Flores (Kayla) and Jason Neil Hink; nieces Nicole Martinez, Cierra Brown (Kenny) and Victoria Solis (Elvis); 13 great nephews & nieces; and his aunt Teresa Luna Vietti.

Thoughts and memories may be shared online at www.gracefuneralhome.net.

Arrangements and services under the personal care of Grace Funeral Homes & Cemeteries.

Bay City Tribune, February 6, 2022
 

Baby Hardin Maddix Flores
May 23, 2022 - July 19, 2022

Angelic services for Hardin Maddix Flores, 2 months, of Bay City will be Friday, July 29, 2022 at 2:30 PM at Enterprise Baptist Church, 2420 Ave B, Bay City, Texas 77414.

Hardin was born in Matagorda County, Bay City, Texas on May 23, 2022 and was immediately life flighted to Women’s Hospital of Texas (NICU) where he spent 58 days of his precious life, visited by loved ones.  He was a fighter #HardinStrong.  He was carried away by angels on July 19, 2022 and placed in heaven.  His tenacity and strength will live on in the lives of those who loved him. Hardin will be dearly missed.

He leaves to mourn his passing, his mother, Anistyn Flores; father, Josh Trace; grandparents, Tim and Christina Aaron, Donald Arnold and Denise and Christopher Trace, Sr.; great grandparents, Connie Kaigler and Larry Kaigler and Sandra Francis; as well as uncles, aunts, cousins and many loved ones. To receive Hardin in heaven are all the paw’s and grannies to watch over our sweet baby boy.

Acting as pallbearers will be Rudy and Dustin Flores and Christopher Arnold.

Duncan-Roberts Funeral Home


Javier Flores

August 13, 1966 - February 26, 2023

Javier Flores of Bay City passed away February 26, 2023.  He was born August 13, 1966 to the late Nicolas Flores and Luz Perez Flores.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a son, Carlitos “Carlos” Flores.

Survivors include his wife Maria M. Flores; daughter Zoyla Rasso (Jorge); sons Genaro Flores (Ana), Francisco Flores (Jennifer) and Carmelo Flores (Vanessa) and grandchildren Genaro Flores, Jr., Elizabeth Flores, Marco Flores, Angela Flores, Francisco Flores, Jr., Erik Flores, Jazmin Flores, Jorge Rasso, Jr., Andrez Rasso, Natalie Flores, Ayden Flores, Camila Flores and Zayden Flores.

A rosary will be recited at 6:00 PM Thursday, March 2, 2023 at Power Church.  Funeral Mass will be 10:00 AM Friday, March 3, 2023 at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church with Rev. Gabriel Espinosa officiating.  Interment will follow at Cedarvale Cemetery.  Pallbearers will be Jorge Rasso, Jorge Rasso Jr., Francisco Flores, Jr., Erik Flores, Genaro Flores, Jr. and Zayden Flores.

Taylor Bros. Funeral Home
 


Johnny Raymond Flores

July 26, 1951 - November 19, 2022

Johnny Raymond Flores, 71, of Bay City passed away November 19, 2022.  He was born July 26, 1951 in Bay City.

Johnny was a life-long resident of Bay City, TX. He worked for the Matagorda County Drainage District for many years. He loved to spend time with his family and friends, sitting on his back porch, drinking his Schlitz and listening to his music. He was also well known for loving his Dallas Cowboys and running his good ol’ football pots. Johnny was the greatest of disciplinarians with his nieces and nephews, and well loved by his family and friends. He has truly left us with a tremendous amount of loving memories. 

He was preceded in death by his mother Herlinda Flores; wife Hope A. Flores; sister Yolanda Sanchez Garcia and brother Steven Flores. Survivors include son Jesse Daniel Sanchez; brother Sammy Flores & wife Elida; 11 grandchildren, 16 great grandchildren; niece Norma Jones as well as other nieces, nephews, and family members.

A rosary will be recited at 9:30 AM Wednesday, November 23, 2022 at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church.  Funeral Mass will be at 10:00 AM.  Interment will follow at Roselawn Memorial Park in Van Vleck. 

Taylor Bros. Funeral Home
 


Margarita Amezquita-Flores

 


Mario “Pangi” Flores

August 9, 1952 – October 22, 2023

A Memorial Service for Mario “Pangi” Roman Flores, 71, of Palacios, will be held from 2-5 pm on Sat. November 4th at the Baptist Encampment Tabernacle in Palacios.

Mario was born August 9, 1952 to Angel P. Flores and Mary L. Flores, and he succumbed to complications of a stroke on October 22, 2023.

Mario was a loving father, brother and son. He was a man who led by example and held fast to his beliefs. He’s someone who will be missed dearly by those who knew and loved him.

Mario is survived by his sons, Rai, Craig, Marc, and Gary, 10 grandchildren, 3 great grandchildren; sisters Hope, Diana, Maryann, and Jackie, brothers John, Larry, Jesse, Chris and Isidro.

“My father didn’t tell me how to live; he lived, and let me watch him do it.” -Clarence Budington Kelland

He is preceded in death by his parents, Angel P. Flores and Mary L. Flores and brother Eugene Flores.

Palacios Beacon, November 1, 2023
 


Mary Ellen Flores

A Celebration of Life will be held for Mary Ellen Flores at 10:30 a.m. on Sat. (Nov. 3) at the Living Word Church, located at 1405 12th St.

Mary Ellen was born October 5, 1942 to Albert Garcia and Eva A. Rodriguez and she passed away on October 1, 2023 in Lubbock surrounded by her family.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, Abelardo Flores, Jr., and brothers Manual and Johnny Rodriguez.

She is survived by her children, Christine (Richard) Perez and Abraham (Yvette) Flores of Palacios, Enedina (Manuel) Ramirez and Naomi Flores of Lubbock, Lisca Flores of Garland, Regina (Mark) Tomlinson of New Braunfels, sister Mary Diaz of Palacios, brother Michael (Lupe) Rodriguez of La Porte, 15 grand children, 4 great grandchildren, several nieces, nephews and family members.

Palacios Beacon, November 1, 2023
 


Ninfa O. Flores

February 21, 1939 - July 04, 2022

Ninfa Orozco Flores was born February 21, 1939 to Manuel Orozco Gomez and Petra Solis Orozco.  She passed away peacefully on July 4, 2022 in Palacios, TX at 83 years of age.

Ninfa was the heart and soul of her family.  Her strength and love held her 6 children, 18 grandchildren, and 24 great grandchildren together.  Her house was a home to all, where an open door welcomed with the scent of her amazing food, the sound of children, and stories of her life and struggles.  You could talk to Grandma about anything or nothing at all, because she had an amazing ability to connect with those she loved.  She was always up for an adventure, enjoying whatever celebrations her family planned, and travelling to many places across the country, most recently taking a cruise to Alaska and Canada.

She was preceded in death by her husband of 64 years, Robert G. Flores; 3 brothers, Arturo, Jose Angel and Refugio S. Orozco; 2 sisters, Amparo Orozco Garcia, Amalia Orozco Garza and son in law Arnold “Potsy” Serna Jr.

She leaves behind sisters Ofelia Orozco Aguilar and Gloria Orozco Rivera; 6 children, Michael Flores (Tammy), Sylvia Garcia (John), Robert Flores Jr. (Astrid), Brenda Serna, Randal Flores (Victoria), and Sharon Estraca (Pete), 18 grandchildren, 24 great grandchildren and numerous nephews and nieces.  She will also be missed by her faithful friend, neighbor and honorary son, Fred Middleton Jr. and by all those who knew her as “Grandma.”

Our hearts are broken but we are grateful to God for the time we had with you and the strength you gave us with the story of your life.  Your love lives on in us Grandma, until we are with you again. 

Visitation will begin at 1:00 PM Friday, July 8, 2022 at the Palacios Funeral Home.  Funeral service will be at 2:00 PM with Pastor Eric Young officiating.  Interment will follow at the Palacios Cemetery.  Pallbearers will be Jason Young, Jeremy Young, Lawrence Crews, Kaleb Garcia, Chase Cervenka and Stephen Sosa.  Honorary Pallbearers will be Jack Young, Elisha Flores, Matthew Flores, James Frangullie and Fred Middleton Jr.

Taylor Bros. Funeral Home
 


Sergio Flores

February 01, 1977 - May 27, 2021

Sergio Flores, 44, of Bay City, TX passed away May 27, 2021. He was born February 1, 1977 in Mexico to Pasquel Anemis Guzman and Adelina Flores.

Sergio is preceded in death by his father. He is survived by his mother Adelina Flores Palacios, and daughters Frances Gutierrez, Yinda Flores and Juana Flores.

The family will receive friends and relatives beginning at 9:00 am Saturday, June 5, 2021 at Taylor Bros. Funeral Home. Funeral services will follow at 10:00 am.

Taylor Bros. Funeral Home
 


Thomas G. Flores

August 3, 1940 - August 1, 2023

Thomas G. Flores, Sr., 82, of Bay City passed away August 1, 2023, peacefully in his sleep at his home with his family.  He was born August 3, 1940, in Palacios, TX to the late Abelardo Trevino Flores and Rosauro Garcia Flores.

Thomas graduated from Palacios High School in 1960 and served in the United States Army from 1961 – 1963.  He married Joyce, his wife of 60 years, in November of 1962 before being deployed to Germany where he served as a medic.  After completing his service, he returned home to Palacios before moving to Bay City to raise his family.  

He worked his entire career for W & W Marina where he started out helping in the shop at 14.  Over the years he worked as a mechanic, a deck hand and eventually a Captain on multiple shrimp boats.  When he retired, he was a partner in the business.

After retirement he began ranching and enjoyed taking care of his animals.  He woke every morning and drove to check on the cattle each day. He helped his nephew and sons with their cattle and made many friends over the years doing what he enjoyed.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother Lalo Flores.

Survivors include his wife Joyce Flores, sons Tommy Flores, Jr., James W. Flores (Tamara) and Martin Dewayne Flores (Michelle); sisters Ophelia Perez, Evangaline Hilburn, Stella Martino and Pilar Flores; brother Tony Flores and grandchildren Matthew Thomas Flores, McKenna Day Flores, Kalie Flores, Kayla Robinson, Kolton Wooley, Cooper Flores, Garrett Flores, Erin Flores and Jackson Flores.

Visitation will begin at 9:00 AM Saturday, August 5, 2023, at the First Presbyterian Church in Palacios.  Funeral services will be at 10:00 AM with Estela Sifuentes officiating.  Interment will follow at the Palacios Cemetery.  Pallbearers will be Craig Wallace, Martin Estudillo, Zeke Marroquin, Efren Marroquin, Luis Cisneros, and Abraham Flores.  Honorary pallbearers will be Mike Solomon, Jose Tapia, Abel Morales, and Alfredo Zamora.

Taylor Bros. Funeral Home
 


Carolina Florez

August 11, 1947 - August 11, 2021

The world lost a beloved Mother, yet heaven gained a beautiful angel. Carolina Florez, 74, of Bay City, Texas, passed away on Wednesday, August 11, 2021. She was born August 11, 1947 in Crystal City to Espiridion Florez and Francisca Lerma Florez. She attended St. Thomas School and graduated from Asherton High School in 1966.

Carolina’s pride and joy were her children and grandchildren. They were her whole wide world. If there was anything she’d look forward to, it would be spending time with them. She was a caring mother, grandmother, sister, and aunt. Her happiness was being surrounded by the love and laughter of her family. She enjoyed shopping every chance she’d get, doing cross word  puzzles, and dancing. She was known for always praying for her whole family and anyone in need. She carried the torch to keep our family united. She will be tremendously missed yet she’d be pleased to know that her family remains stronger together during this difficult time.

 She was preceded in death by her parents; Espiridion Florez and Francisca Lerma Florez. Survivors include daughter; Judit Orea and husband Manuel Polina from Wharton, her son Jesus Miguel Orea and wife Deanna Davis from Beasley, her daughter Jo Anna Rodriguez and husband Antonio Rodriguez from Bay City. Her sisters; Corina Orea and Juane Florez. She is also survived by her loving grandchildren; Francis Orea, Shaylynn Longoria, Avian Gomez, Lexi Orea, J.J Orea, Jasmyn Polina, Aliana Rodriguez, Manuel Polina III, Jayce Orea, and Iann Rodriguez. She is also survived by many loving nieces and nephews.

The family will receive family and friends for visitation at 9:00am Tuesday, August 17, 2021 at Our Lady of Guadalupe Church with a rosary beginning at 9:30am. The Mass will immediately follow at 10:00am with Deacon Ramos officiating.

Taylor Bros. Funeral Home
 


Armentha Flye

July 18, 1926 – March 17, 2002

Funeral services for Armentha Flye, 75, of Bay City, will be held Saturday, March 23, 2002, at 2 P. M., at Enterprise Baptist Church, Bay City, with the Rev. J. Weldon Gilbert, eulogist. Burial will follow at Eastview Cemetery in Bay City.

Visitation will be Friday until 9 P. M. in the Duncan-Roberts Funeral Home chapel, with the family hour from 7 – 9 P. M.

She was born in Pflugerville, Texas, Sunday, July 18, 1926, to Willie Lewis and Annie Johnson Lewis, and passed away Sunday, March 17, 2002, Memorial Southwest Hospital, Houston, Texas.

Armentha was a friend to all mankind, and was known throughout the area for her outstanding cooking and baking for all occasions. In her demise, she will be sorely missed.

Survivors include: her husband, Steve Flye, Sr. of Bay City, six daughters, Jenola Hill of San Antonio, Lyndell Andrews of Staten Island, New York, Maudesta Moore and Wesley of Tyler, Wilma Stredic and Jesse, Rosetta Austin and Lonnie, and Carol Flye, all of Bay City; and three sons, Tim Flye, Sr. of San Antonio, Steve Flye, Jr. and Reginald Flye and Glenda, of Houston; five sisters, Willie Sims, Betty Lewis and Loraine Smith, all of Hempstead, Daisy Frear of Alvin and Evelyn Santee of Prairie View; and two brothers, Sonnie Lewis of Austin, and Leon Lewis of Prairie View; also 29 grandchildren, 31 great-grandchildren, a host of nieces, nephews and cousins, other relatives and a family of many friends.

Active pallbearers will be Lamont Lewis, Joseph George, Milton Burrell, Robert Rollins, Rodney Allen and Don Perry.

Arrangements are with Duncan-Roberts Funeral Home

A00014B2002MR20           Bay City Tribune, March 20, 2002
 


LaJan Franklin, Sr.

1949 ~ 2023

Lajan Franklin, age 73, was born to Benjamin and Mamie Franklin in 1949, in Bay City, TX.  He attended and graduated from Hilliard High School. Lajan loved fixing televisions and other electronics and made that his career.  

God called LaJan home on Saturday night, February 4, 2023, after a battle with cancer. He leaves to cherish his precious memories his devoted son, Lajan Franklin, Jr. (Devoted wife, Shmecka); grandchildren whom he loved very much, Ashley and Isiaiah Franklin, all of Houston, TX; sister, Lurnell Franklin-Howard of Fort Worth, TX; two brothers: Charles Franklin of Missouri City, TX and Robert Franklin of Houston, TX; three nieces: Yolanda Franklin-Moore (Mark) of Fort Worth, TX, Natasha Howard-White (Shannon) of Alvin, TX, and Narvina Franklin of New York; three nephews: Tony Franklin (Yolanda) of Katy, TX, Rennard Franklin of Houston, TX, and Benjamin Franklin of New York; great nieces and nephews: Tony Franklin, Jr. of San Antonio, TX, Monterrian Franklin of Katy, TX, Alexis Braxton and Marye' Hunter of Alvin, TX; special friend and mother to his sons, Patricia Franklin; along with a host of other relatives and friends. 

Celebration of Life service, Saturday, February 11, 2023, 11:00 AM, Sweet Home Baptist Church, 7104 Homestead Road, Houston, TX 77028.

Interment, Saturday, February 11, 2023, 2:00 PM, Eastview Cemetery, Golden Avenue, Bay City, TX 77414

Ben David Funeral Home, Columbus, Texas
 


Rosetta Flye     Eastview Cemetery     Photo courtesy of Faye Cunningham


 


Albert Christopher Fojtik

July 9, 1954 – July 6, 2022

On Wednesday July 6, 2022, at 3:45 p.m. Albert Christopher Fojtik, 67, passed away in the hospital due to health complications. He was a loving husband, father, brother, and grandfather (papa). He will be terribly missed by his family who all loved him so dearly.

Albert is preceded in death by his son, Albert Christopher Fojtik, his mother and father Winifred and Louis Fojtik, Grandma Artlisa Rouse, sister Christine, and brother Richard.

He is survived by his wife, Debra Fojtik, son Matthew (wife Aimee) Fojtik and his grandchildren Cody Rodriguez, Lauryn Fojtik, Caitlyn Fojtik, Ava Fojtik, Logan Fojtik; sisters, Sharon Williams, Cathy Green, Delores Heinrich; brothers Louis Fojtik II and Jim Fojtik, and many nieces and nephews.

A memorial will be planned for family and close friends at the end of this month. Flowers or cards can be sent, if so inclined, to 203 CR 231, Bay City, Texas 77414.

Bay City Tribune, July 13, 2022
 


Chris Fojtik

July 27, 1977 –August 2, 2021

Chris Fojtik, 44 of Bay City passed away August 2, 2021. He was born July 27, 1977, in Bay City to Albert C. Fojtik and Debra Phillips Fotjik. He was an amazing father, a loyal and devoted husband. A great family man with a giving heart. He will be missed by so many.

Survivors include his wife Lisa Fojtik, son Cody (Ashley), granddaughter Lilly and daughters Lauryn and Ava Fojtik. Parents Albert and Debra Phillips Fojtik, brother Matthew (Aimee) Fojtik, niece Caitlyn and nephew Logan. Maternal grandmother Brenda (Buddy) Moore.    Father and mother in law Alfred and Esmeralda Garay and brother in laws Alfred Jr. (Yvonne), Ruben Garay and Aaron Garay. Nephews Ty and nieces Alyssa, Ariana, Lillian and Elise Garay.      

Proceeded in death by his paternal grandparents Louis & Winifred Fojtik, maternal grandfather, Glenn Phillips and his great grandparents.

Bay City Tribune, August 11, 2021
 


Mary Jane Jenkins Follis

August 28, 1950 - September 23, 2024

Mary Jane Jenkins Follis, 74, of Blessing, TX passed away September 23, 2024. She was born August 28, 1950, in Bay City, TX to Claude Lee and Myrtle Marie (Rose) Jenkins.

Mary Jane was preceded in death by her parents; an infant daughter; son, Donald Arthur “Donnie: King; daughter, Denise LaNell King; sisters, Evelyn Jenkin Jones and Alie Jean Jenkins Morris; and brother Claude Jenkins. She is survived by her spouse of 46 years, David C. Follis, Sr.; son, David C. Follis, Jr. (Misti); stepdaughters, Tracy and Holly Follis; grandchildren, Andy King (Leah), Jodi Borak (Devin), Jude Follis, Anna Rose Follis, Paden Johnson, Kyle Woytasczyk, Lance Woytasczyk; eight great-grandchildren; brother, Charles Jenkins (Elizabeth); and sisters, Betty McFarlain and Rose Reichert.

The family will receive relatives and friends beginning at 1:00pm Saturday, September 28, 2024, at Palacios Funeral Home. Services will begin at 2:00pm with Chris Webber officiating. Interment will follow at Palacios Cemetery. 

Palacios Funeral Home
 


Kylie Marie Folmar

June 21, 2005 - September 2, 2024

Kylie Marie Folmar, 19, of Van Vleck passed away September 2, 2024.  She was born June 21, 2005 in Wharton, TX to James Conley Folmar and Nicole Marie Beaver Folmar.

She was preceded in death by her paternal grandparents James Larry Folmar and Lana Sue “Nanny” Folmar of Van Vleck, and nephew John Henry Folmar.

She is survived by her parents James and Nicole Folmar of Van Vleck; maternal grandparents Bill and Suzanne Beaver of Bay City, TX; sisters Amber Butler (Jake) of Columbus, TX and Kaitlyn Folmar of Victoria, TX; brothers Christopher Folmar of La Grange, TX, Ty Folmar (Lexus) of Cedar Lane, TX, and Cody Folmar of Lake Jackson, TX; uncle Billy Beaver (Jonna) of Austin, TX; aunt Marsha Padilla Perez of Coachella, CA;  nieces Sidney and Paige Butler of Columbus, TX, Reagan Bell of Cedar Lane, TX, and Teagan and Tristyn Folmar of Cedar Lane, TX; cousins William “Tre” Beaver III of Austin, TX, Anthony and Sinai Padilla and Mirabel Perez of Coachella, CA, and numerous extended family members and friends. 

Funeral services will be at 4:00 PM Monday, September 9, 2024 at Nichols Street Church of Christ in Bay City, TX with Matt Springfield officiating.  Interment will follow at Roselawn Memorial Park in Van Vleck. Pallbearers are Ty Folmar, Chris Folmar, Cody Folmar, Billy Beaver, Tre Beaver and Jake Butler. Honorary pallbearers are Kaleb Brown, Malek Flarrabi, Austin Beasley and Jason Roe.

Bay City Tribune, September 8, 2024
 


Lana Sue Folmar

February 15, 1945 - March 28, 2023

Lana Sue Folmar, 78, of Van Vleck passed away March 28, 2023 at home with family.  She was born February 15, 1945 in Bay City, TX to the late J. H. Conley Stansell and Mary Cleveland Stansell.

Lana “Suzy” Folmar who was mostly known to everyone as simply, Nanny, grew up in the country working in the hayfields and with cattle in Van Vleck, Texas. She loved being outside in the yard and was happiest when she was busy doing anything outdoors. She loved her children, grandchildren and great grandchildren with a passion and looked forward to seeing them whenever she could. She was always ready to sit and visit with friends and family no matter the time of day. She loved doing for others whether it was running errands, cooking, cleaning or tending to children, and in fact had a hand in raising many during her 78 years. She always had advice to give on any given subject and somehow knew just what to say to make anyone feel better. She was a remarkable woman who was loved by all and will be greatly missed. 

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband James Larry Folmar, her sister Wilma Jean, and her 2 grandsons J. J. Perrin and John Henry Folmar.

Survivors include her son James C. (Nicole) Folmar; daughters Marsha Perez and Rose Wilson; sister Linda King; grandchildren Amber (Jake) Butler, Christopher Folmar, Ty (Lexus) Folmar, Cody Folmar, Kaitlyn Folmar, Kylie Folmar, Anthony Padilla, Sinai Padilla, and Maribel Perez; great grandchildren Sidney Butler, Paige Butler, Reagan Bell, Teagan Folmar, and Tristyn Folmar; many nieces, nephews, and friends. 

Graveside services will be at 3:00 PM Monday, April 3, 2023 at Roselawn Memorial Park with Matt Springfield officiating.  Pallbearers will be her grandchildren: Amber Folmar, Christopher Folmar, Ty Folmar, Cody Folmar, Kaitlyn Folmar, and Kylie Folmar. 

A special Thank You to Bill and Suzanne Beaver as well as the entire team at Houston Hospice of El Campo for everything you did to help take care of Nanny. Words cannot express our gratitude.

Donations may be made to Houston Hospice of El Campo, 1102 North Mechanic, El Campo, TX 77437-3029. (979) 578-0314

Taylor Bros. Funeral Home
 


Rudy Allen Fondon

December 19, 1968 – June 7, 2023

Rudy Allen Fondon, 54, of Richmond, Texas passed away on June 7, 2023. He was born on December 19, 1968 in Santa Ana, California to Roland Allen Fondon and Jeanne Marilla Fondon. He owned Fondon’s Taxidermy in Richmond for many years until his retirement in 2019. He was associated with the Texas Taxidermy Association, Bellaire Coin Club, and the Greater Houston Area Coin Club. His hobbies included coin collecting, being a successful poker player and traveling with his beloved family. This loving husband, father, son, brother, uncle and friend will be missed.

Rudy is preceded in death by his grandparents, Green Berry Fondon, Annie Beth Fondon, Rudy Marilla and Julita Marilla Fronda; and brother-in-law, Donald “Donnie” Barela.

Survivors include his wife of 31 years, Maria Barela Fondon; son, Donnie Allen Fondon; parents, Roland and Jeanne Fondon; sister, Julie Anne Fondon; brother-in-law, Mitch Cary; nephew, Zachery Allen Reyes and wife Melissa Gibson, and their children, Glori, Zachery Jr. and Bliss; in-laws, Simon and Virginia Barela; along with extended family and friends.

Visitation will be held from 12 p.m. until service time at 2 p.m., Wednesday, June 14, 2023 in the Chapel of Davis-Greenlawn Funeral Home in Rosenberg, Texas. Burial to follow at Greenlawn Memorial Park in Rosenberg. Fr. Ralph Morgan to officiate the services. The family will receive visitors following the burial at Calvary Episcopal Church Parish Hall, 1201 Austin St., Richmond, Texas 77469.

Pallbearers include John Bubenik, Israel Delgado, Cody Guyer, Joe Guyer, Ron Gipson, Kevin Romine, John Scott, and Keith Staff. Honorary pallbearers include Mitch Cary, Tim Barziza and Richey Kerzee.

For those wishing, in lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to Calvary Episcopal Preparatory Scholarship Foundation.

Tributes and words of condolence may be left for the family at www.davisgreenlawnfh.com

Arrangements are under the direction of Davis-Greenlawn Funeral Home, 3900 B.F. Terry Blvd. (Hwy 59 South @ FM 2218), Rosenberg, Texas 77471; 281-341-8800.

Bay City Tribune, June 11, 2023
 


Julia Ella Ford

March 04, 1925 - June 16, 2021

Julia Ella Ford, 96, of Bay City passed away June 16, 2021.  She was born March 4, 1925 in Valesco, TX to the late Leo J. Franzina and Sophie Kolatchney Franzina.

She worked as a PBX Operator during WWII and later at Matagorda General Hospital.  She also served as a substitute teacher.  She was an avid trail-rider.  Her favorite was the Salt Grass Trail Ride.  She also loved to deer hunt.  She was involved in many of the Matagorda Huebner cattle moves well into her 80’s.  She loved going to her ranch and checking on her cattle and calves.

She was a life member of VFW Post 2438 Ladies Auxiliary, and a long-time member of St. Paul's Methodist Church.

She was preceded in death by her husband Thomas E. Ford, an infant daughter Mary Margaret Ford, a brother Norman Franzina and a granddaughter Rachel Ford.

Survivors include daughters Linda Mangold (Jim) and Nancy Fryberger (Lynn); sons Thomas “Tom” Ford, Jr. (Reba), Larry Ford and Gary Ford (Roxanne Schelp); brother Cecil Franzina (Patricia); grandchildren Thomas Joseph, Vic and Jason Mangold, Eddie Ford, Kristie Ford, Jana Townzen, Jessica Fry, Alli Aparicio, Logan Ford, Julia Fryberger, Jacob Fryberger and Henry Schelp; great grandchildren Bailey Schelp Nicole Schelp, Ashley. Ashton and Colton Mangold, Mekenzie, Wyatt and Ty Mangold, Mallorie, Chase, Clay, Kyle and Caleb Ford, Jake Townzen, Kambrie and Rhylin Fry, Aaron Fryberger, Katelyn, Aliayah and Kade Fryberger and great-great grandchildren Zaylynn and Rynleigh Fryberger and Amelia Garcia.

Visitation will begin at 1:00 PM Monday, June 21, 2021 at Taylor Bros. Funeral Home.  Graveside services will be 2:00 PM Monday at Roselawn Memorial Park in Van Vleck with Rev. John Williams officiating.  Her sons and grandsons will serve as pallbearers.

Taylor Bros. Funeral Home
 


Karen Diane (Ford) Ford

November 15, 1968 ~ November 22, 2021

Funeral services for Karen Ford, 53 of Bay City will be Saturday, December 4, 2021 at 11:00 a.m. at Dixon Funeral Home in Brazoria with Dr. Melvin Johnson officiating.

She passed away on Monday, November 22, 2021 at Matagorda Regional Medical Center in Bay City, Texas.

She loved cooking and fishing. Her greatest joy was spending time with her family and friends.

She leaves to cherish her loving memories; mother, Janice Hunter, Phoenix, Arizona; son, Treze Ford, Bay City; daughters, Jettice Ford-Lewis (Curtis “Duncan”) and Iisha Davis (Preston) both of Bay City and Edna Genene Ford, Phoenix, Arizona; sister, Erica Hunter, Phoenix, Arizona; her dog, Pepper; grandchildren, Jaylin McBride, Anyia McBride, Zakahia Bonner, Kayden Ford, Nyla Ford and Raelyn Davis; other relatives and friends.

Visitation will be the same day of service from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. at Dixon Funeral Home in Brazoria.

Due to the COVID-19 Virus, everyone must wear a mask and practice social distancing.

Final arrangements entrusted to Dixon Funeral Home of Brazoria at (979) 798-9113.        

Dixon Funeral Home
 


Elzie Florence Fortenberry

November 8, 1924 - April 3, 2024

Elzie Florence Fortenberry, 99, of Sweeny passed away April 3, 2024. She was born November 8, 1924 in Lake Wells, Florida to the late Manning Massey and Margaret Haynes Massey.

Elzie enjoyed spending time with her family, reminiscing and telling stories to anyone that would listen. In her free time she enjoyed playing cards and dominoes with friends at Actions in Sweeny. In her 99 years here on Earth, she was a lady of many talents and careers. She began working at the Blessing Hotel before later supporting the war efforts as an airplane buffer at the bomber plant during WWII. Among many other accomplishments, she retired from Sweeny ISD later in her life. 

In addition to her parents, she is preceded in death by her husband Leslie Lee (BB) Fortenberry, sister Bettye Marlyne Ham, brother Manning Keith Massey, and son-in-law Buddy Azbell.

Survivors include daughter Kay Azbell; son Leslie Fortenberry (Debra); brother Robert Massey (Geraldine); sister-in-law Dorothy Massey; grandchildren Rajetta Hanzik (Jason), Robert Azbell (Tena), Erin Fortenberry and Pake Fortenberry; great grandchildren Cynthia Halfmann (Cody), Kelsye Kishpaugh (Morgan), Kyle Azbell (Lyndsey), Corey Dale Fortenberry and Elzie Fortenberry; and great-great grandchildren Caidee, Lane, and Cheyenne Halfmann.

Visitation will begin at 1:00 PM Wednesday, April 10, 2024 at the First Baptist Church in Sweeny. Funeral Service will be at 2:00 PM with Pastor Warren Rayburn officiating. Interment will follow at Roselawn Memorial Park in Van Vleck. Pallbearers will be Doug Massey, DJ Pierce, Robert Wojcik, Bart Squires, Bill Greeson and Darrin George.  Billy Neel will serve as an honorary pallbearer.

Memorials in her honor may be made to Actions in Sweeny or the First Baptist Church in Sweeny. 

Taylor Bros. Funeral Home
 


Jack Allen Fortenberry

March 10, 1935 - January 16, 2024

Our beloved husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather Jack Allen Fortenberry, 88, of Midfield, Texas formerly of Houston, Texas went home to be with his Lord and Savior on January 16, 2024. He was born March 10, 1935, in Alief, Texas to the late Louis Ervin Fortenberry and Ida Fay Rodden Fortenberry. He grew up in Old Ocean, Texas and attended primary and secondary schools in Sweeny, Texas.

Jack served his country in the Korean war and was a Paratrooper in the 82nd Airborne Division of the United States Army. He joined the Houston Police department in 1958, retiring in January of 1983 to join the Matagorda County Sheriff department. He left the Matagorda County Sheriff department in 1992 and briefly worked for the Fayette County Sheriff department before returning to Bay City to help start the Bay City ISD police department. He spent a total of 43 years in law enforcement. 

Jack was a member of Calvary Baptist Church in Bay City, Texas, and a member of the Masonic Lodge. He had many hobbies including fishing, wood carving, drawing, and spending time with his friends and family. He was a man of many talents and in his younger years he built and repaired cars, roofed his homes and built many things including a pontoon boat and a workshop. Jack had a kind and gentle demeanor. He loved all people and made friends in the many communities he served in.

In addition to his parents, Jack was preceded in death by a brother, Daniel Fortenberry.

Survivors include his wife of 66 years, Lila Marie Thomas Fortenberry; daughter Donna Marie Lester (Keith); sons Bobby Rhey Fortenberry (Marylyn “Marie”) and James Fortenberry (Estrella); brothers Lewis E. Fortenberry and Clayton F. Fortenberry; grandchildren Matthew Allyn Lester (Andreea), Nathan Arlyn Lester (Jill), Micah Allen Fortenberry and Merrett James Fortenberry, great grandchildren Jackson Lester, Abigail Lester, and Maximilian Lester and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and cherished friends.

Visitation will begin at 9:00 AM Wednesday, January 24, 2024, at Calvary Baptist Church.  Funeral service will be at 10:00 AM with Rev. Lane Par Due officiating.  Interment will follow at Hawley Cemetery. The pallbearers will be Matthew Lester, Nathan Lester, Micah Fortenberry, Merrett Fortenberry, Joe Fortenberry and Keith Lester. 

In lieu of flowers, donations can be sent to the charity of your choice.

Taylor Bros. Funeral Home
 


Janice Ann Forth

October 27, 1941 - November 03, 2021

Janice Ann Forth, 80 of Palacios, TX passed away on November 3 ,2021.

Jenny was predeceased by her Father Joseph Spelts and Mother Geneva Spelts, as well as her oldest daughter Diane Boots.

Jenny will be remembered by her surviving children, Mike Thomas of Martinsville , Ind. Debbie McAdams and Donna Soares of Bay City , TX.

She will also be dearly missed by her grandchildren Billy Purkerson, Jeff Thomas,Tiffany Thomas,Ashley Sagissor, Michelle Boots , Chris Boots, and her 8 great grandchildren

She was laid to rest November 8, 2021, beside her loving mother.

Taylor Bros. Funeral Home
 


John Joseph “JJ” Franciskovich
July 4, 1949 - June 20, 2021

John Joseph “JJ” Franciskovich, 71, was born on July 4, 1949 to Peter Franciskovich and Mary Louise Westphall Franciskovich in Canton, IL. He was born again into new life on August 5, 1991, when he accepted Jesus as his Savior, to have his name written in the Lamb’s Book of Life, which covered him in grace so that he was able to behold his Savior face to face on June 20, 2021, when he stepped into heaven. It is his greatest desire that you will also come to know Jesus as your Savior so that you can join him there when your earthly life reaches its end.

JJ’s life was one of service. He served with honor aboard the Richmond K. Turner during the Vietnam War in the United States Navy after enlisting in 1967. In 1981, he married his wife Linda, and began a career in the nuclear industry which led him to STPNOC in 1986 to retirement in 2000 as an Electrical Supervisor, with an additional 13 years as a contractor until he retired for the second time in 2016.

He believed in furthering his education and he wanted to do everything God purposed for him. To that end, he graduated from the University of Houston-Victoria in 2016 and fulfilled his longtime dream of becoming a teacher, at Bay City ISD. He served in his church, teaching Sunday School for many years. He also served as the chairman of South Texas Prison Outreach from 2005 to 2019 in Matagorda County, as a coordinator for Mike Barber Ministries Weekend of Excitement throughout Texas, Louisiana and Oklahoma and was able to minister to countless incarcerated men through his obedience to the calling God placed on his life. He was a faithful husband, a loyal friend, and a dedicated believer in Christ.

John is preceded into eternity by his parents, and two brothers, Pete Franciskovich, Jr. and James Lee Franciskovich. He is survived on this earthly realm by his wife of 40 years, Linda Merritt Franciskovich, of Bay City, TX, his brother Pete (Sallie) Franciskovich of Canton, IL, two sisters, Mary L. Franciskovich-Yerbic of East Peoria, IL and Marianne Nichol of Canton, IL, one sister-in-law, Susan Merritt Moore of Laramie, WY & numerous nieces and nephews.

A CELEBRATION OF LIFE SERVICE will be held at Ignite Church, 900 Nichols Avenue, Bay City, TX on July 10th at 10:00 am. Burial is at a later date in Cheyenne, WY. Lakewood Funeral Chapel is facilitating the preparations and online condolences at: lakewoodfuneralchapel.com

A special thank you to his caregiver, Darlene Austin, for her dedication and compassion this past year and a half.

In lieu of flowers, please donate to ALS Association www.alsa.org or Paralyzed Veterans of American www.pva.org in his name.

Bay City Tribune, July 4, 2021
 


Paul Eugene Francoeur
January 9, 1938 - October 25, 2021

 Paul E. Francoeur, 83, of Wharton, passed away on Monday, Oct. 25, 2021 at St. Luke’s Hospital with his loving wife by his side. He was born Jan. 9, 1938, in Fall River, Massachusetts to Theresa and Napoleon Francoeur. Paul attended St. Roch’s Parochial School and church where he was baptized and confirmed.

Paul attended Diman Vocational High School and then entered the Army at the age of seventeen. In the Army he attained his GED and two years of college.

Throughout his twenty-year military career Paul was stationed in Germany, France, Vietnam, Belgium and the United States. He was awarded two Bronze Star Medals, the Purple Heart, two Commendation Medals for the US Armed Forces, five Good Conduct Medals. Vietnamese Cross of Gallantry Unit Citation, Vietnamese Civic Action Honor Medal Unit Citation, Meritorious Unit Citation, the Special Forces Tab, Master Parachutist Wings and Combat Infantrymen Badge.  Paul entered as an enlisted man and graduated from Infantry OCS at Ft. Benning, Ga. in March 1966. Upon graduation he was sent to the 6th Special Forces Group at Fort Bragg, NC. He served two one-year tours with the 5th Special Forces at Camp Trabong in Vietnam. He helped procure elephants and logs to provide a saw mill for the village which was the basis for the Walt Disney movie “Dumbo Drop”.

During his second tour in Vietnam, he was serving in Bet Het Camp in 1969, which was the site of the tank battle between the US Army and the People’s Army of Vietnam, where he was wounded. The military channel produced a one-hour program about this attack, one of the few such encounters in Vietnam, called Tank Battle Vietnam. After Vietnam, Paul commanded Headquarters and Headquarter Company 18th Airborne Corps at Fort Bragg, NC. Later he attended the Infantry Officers Career Course at Ft. Benning, Ga. His terminal assignment was Shape Headquarters in Casteau, Belgium, after which he retired as Captain.

Upon retirement in February 1975, he moved to Marseille, France where he was an operations officer for a security company and also worked for the American Consulate General. While there he met and married his wife, Denise. In 1980 they moved to the United States where he began to work for Analysis and Computer Systems, Inc. where they were responsible for the software for AWACS and the MIX missile.

In 1982, Denise and Paul moved to Wharton, which became their beloved lifelong home where they were welcomed by many new friends. Paul was employed by the Egg Farm Healthfocus and Gulf Coast Medical Center. He later joined Matagorda General Hospital in Bay City. Even after retiring in 2000, Paul continued to provide some consulting work for local businesses and began a driving service. In 2006 Matagorda General Hospital called him back to help out for a couple of months on a part time basis as a biomed tech and he stayed for five years, fully retiring in 2011 at the age of 74. Upon retirement you could find Paul enjoying rounds of golf at the Wharton Country Club golf course where he served on the board as well as on the board at the Wharton Chamber of Commerce. Paul belonged to the Special Forces (Green Beret) Association, Purple Heart Association and the Vietnam Veteran of America Association. Paul E. Francoeur (Liberty of Congress).

Paul was predeceased by his daughter Laurence and is survived by his loving wife, Denise Francoeur, daughter Corinne Kirschner of CA., son Christophe Francoeur and partner Penelope Babst of Portland, OR., granddaughter Christine and husband Kevin Simmons, grandsons, Daniel Kirschner and Dion Francoeur, two great-grandchildren, sister Vivan Elliot of Temple, sister-in-law Jannine Donjou of France, sister of the heart Ruby Hawes, nieces and nephews, family and friends.

Visitation will be held at the Wharton Funeral Home on Monday, Nov. 1 from 5-8 p.m. There will be a service at the Wharton Funeral Home on Tuesday, Nov. 2 at 2 p.m. afterwards there will be a Military Service at the Evergreen Cemetery.

Honorary Pallbears are Jerry Salazar, Buck Boetcher, Toby Coats, Frank Cochran, Kent Hill, Jimmy Chambers, Dan Hopgood, Greg Learned, D’Gerald McKinney, Donnie Guess, Wharton Dinner Club, VietnamVeteran Project.

Special thanks to Greg Leonard, his nurse and to all of our family and friends.

In  lieu of flowers please make donations to the Wounded Warrior Project.

Services under the direction of Wharton Funeral Home, 515 E. Wharton, Tx. 979/532-3410. 

Wharton Funeral Home
 


George Champion Frangullie
November 12, 1937 – April 3, 2024

George Champion Frangullie, 87, of Palacios, TX, passed away on April 3, 2024. He was born on November 12, 1937, at home in Palacios, TX, to Amelia and George Frangullie Sr. of Palacios, TX.

George grew up in Palacios, TX, where he attended high school. After his graduation, he joined the Army and was deployed to Korea in 1956, where he served in the 101st Airborne (Screaming Eagles). During his down time, he played baseball, a sport he truly loved.

Once he completed his tour, he moved back to Palacios and met the woman he would spend the rest of his life with, Anita Aguilar. Anita, who was from Wharton, TX, and George were married in 1961. They were blessed with two children. They began their lives together in Palacios, while George worked at the Alcoa Plant in Point Comfort, TX, and attended Wharton Junior College. He then applied and was accepted to the Houston Police Academy in Houston, TX.

From the time he was a young boy, the son of a constable, George Frangullie, always wanted to be a police officer. His love for law enforcement launched his career in criminal justice. He soon applied for a position with the US Customs Department and worked for the Lake Falcon Dam International Crossing Bridge, located in Falcon, TX, where he worked as a customs agent for four years. He then applied to the Bureau of Narcotics and Dangerous Drugs and was accepted. At 37 years old, he became the Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration in Santiago, Chile. He was an important component of the United States narcotics effort in Latin America. His work and assignments commissioned interviews by Geraldo Rivera, Nightline, and 60 Minutes, to name a few.

In 1988, George retired and continued to do contract work for the DEA. He returned to his hometown of Palacios and became an elected official and Justice of the Peace for Matagorda County. He served in that position for 13 years. During this time, he reunited with his family and childhood friends. In his position as the JP for Matagorda County, he was highly respected in the community. He was known for his kindness, understanding, diplomacy, and fairness.

George experienced “bigger than life” events during his career as a DEA agent but never lost focus on what mattered most to him, his family. He spent his entire adult life looking after all of his loved ones. He had a quiet, stern nature about him, and at the same time, he was funny, bright, and loving. George fought a hard battle with lung disease. He departed his life to Heaven on April 3, 2024.

George is preceded in death by his parents, Amelia Frangullie (mother) and George Frangullie Sr. (father).

George leaves to cherish his memories with Anita Frangullie, his loving wife of 62 years; his sister, Sophie Myers; and his brother, Chris Frangullie. He leaves behind two sons, George C. Frangullie III and Mark A. Frangullie; four grandchildren, George Frangullie IV, Jeffrey Frangullie, Natalie Bynum, and Lazaro Frangullie; and five great-grandchildren, Luna Frangullie, Charlotte Frangullie, Amelia Frangullie, Julianna Frangullie, and one whose name is not known.

Funeral services will be held on May 4, 2024, at the Living Word Church in Palacios, TX, at 11:00 a.m., performed by Pastor Tony Flores. A celebration of Life will be held in the fellowship hall immediately following the service.

Bay City Tribune, April 28, 2024
 


Brian Franklin

Brian Franklin was born August 16, 1977 in Houston, Texas. He passed away December 13, 2014 at St. Luke’s Hospital. Brian attended Dodson Montessori Elementary. School Fondren Middle School and Willowridge High School. Brain earned a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering from Prairie View A&M. University.

He was a member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Society of Civil Engineers, Prairie View Alumni and Windsor Village U.M.C.

Brian leaves to Cherish his memory three daughters whom he adorned Taylor, Madison, and Bria Franklin, Mother Gloria Franklin, Brother Eric Franklin and Uncle Troy Brown of Bay City and a host of extended family and friends.

Services will be held at Windsor Village U.M.C Wake 10 am service at 11AM. Burial Eastview Cemetery Bay City, Texas.

Troy B. Smith Professional Services, Houston, Texas               Photos courtesy of Faye Cunningham


 


LaJan Franklin, Sr.

1949 ~ 2023

Lajan Franklin, age 73, was born to Benjamin and Mamie Franklin in 1949, in Bay City, TX.  He attended and graduated from Hilliard High School. Lajan loved fixing televisions and other electronics and made that his career.  

God called LaJan home on Saturday night, February 4, 2023, after a battle with cancer. He leaves to cherish his precious memories his devoted son, Lajan Franklin, Jr. (Devoted wife, Shmecka); grandchildren whom he loved very much, Ashley and Isiaiah Franklin, all of Houston, TX; sister, Lurnell Franklin-Howard of Fort Worth, TX; two brothers: Charles Franklin of Missouri City, TX and Robert Franklin of Houston, TX; three nieces: Yolanda Franklin-Moore (Mark) of Fort Worth, TX, Natasha Howard-White (Shannon) of Alvin, TX, and Narvina Franklin of New York; three nephews: Tony Franklin (Yolanda) of Katy, TX, Rennard Franklin of Houston, TX, and Benjamin Franklin of New York; great nieces and nephews: Tony Franklin, Jr. of San Antonio, TX, Monterrian Franklin of Katy, TX, Alexis Braxton and Marye' Hunter of Alvin, TX; special friend and mother to his sons, Patricia Franklin; along with a host of other relatives and friends. 

Celebration of Life service, Saturday, February 11, 2023, 11:00 AM, Sweet Home Baptist Church, 7104 Homestead Road, Houston, TX 77028.

Interment, Saturday, February 11, 2023, 2:00 PM, Eastview Cemetery, Golden Avenue, Bay City, TX 77414

Ben David Funeral Home, Columbus, Texas               Photo courtesy of Faye Cunningham


 


Mamie Lou Franklin - Eastveiw Cemetery - Photo courtesy of Faye Cunningham

 


Mary Janell “Jill” Franks

February 3, 1947 – April 23, 2024

Mary Janell (Jill) Franks, 77, of Bay City, Texas went to be with the Lord on Tuesday, April 23, 2024, surrounded by her loved ones. She was born February 3, 1947, in Nacogdoches, Texas to Henry Ferman and Edna Lee Franks.

Janell graduated from Bay City High School in the class of 1965 with a Bachelor of Arts & Education from Stephen F. Austin State University. She married Wayne Stephens of Bay City, Texas on December 22, 1967, and they had two children, Rachel, and Ryan. Upon graduating from college, Ms. Franks taught Art, ESL, and English in Bay City for over many years. Janell later ran two businesses: real estate rentals and the Golden ‘T’ bar in Bay City until 1989, when she returned to East Texas to help care for her parents and teach at Timpson ISD. In 2018, she moved to Elkhart, Texas where she created “an ancestral “home (so designated by her grandson) where she enjoyed sharing life with her two dogs, Jake and Peaches, and her children and grandchildren.

Ms. Franks was a woman of many talents: creating and gifting beautiful works of art; giving of herself when family or friends needed help, her passionate love of family, and devotion to her students.

Janell was a loving mother, grandmother, daughter, sister, and friend.

She is survived by her daughter, Rachel Lynn Francois and husband Chad of Jarrell; her son, Ryan Dow Stephens and wife Tracy of Seguin; brother, K. Edward Franks and wife Francesca of Cleveland; her sister, Kathy Sue (Franks) Cannon and husband Lawson McElvy (Mackie) Cannon of Seabrook; and grandchildren, Connor Stephens, Collin Stephens, and Teagan Francois; along with numerous nieces, nephews and a circle of dear lifelong friends.

There will be a memorial for Janell on Saturday, May 18, 2024, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at First Methodist Church, 2300 Avenue H, Bay City Texas 77414.

Bay City Tribune, May 12, 2024
 


Toby U. Franks

August 12, 1996 - August 27, 2024

Toby U-Gene Franks was born August 12, 1996 in Bay City, TX to Huey Eugene Franks and Rachel Diane Halford.  Affectionately known as “Tobae” to Chelsea, “T-Oby” to his father and “Tobylosis” by other family members, called Oak Grove, Louisiana his home base, but home was wherever he parked the trailer.  Toby just celebrated his 28th birthday.  He was loved and cherished.  Sadly on August 27, 2024 he left our world and went to his final home in heaven.

He was born and married in Bay City, Texas to his high school sweetheart, Chelsea Lynn.  He grew up in Pioneer, Louisiana where he lived and attended school.  He graduated Epps High School in 2016 on a Friday and the following Monday, he was on the pipeline with his Dad.

Starting as a welder’s helper learning the trade alongside his dad, he became a welder in 2023.    He loved working and welding.  He was very passionate about all that he did from farming and raising pigs through high school to helping and practicing becoming a welder.  He was a fixer of all things and loved mowing yards, whether it was his own or a neighbor’s.

No matter where he was or what he was doing, he captivated the hearts of all who met him.  He was a simple man, firm enough to stand up for what was right, but gentle enough to be so lovable.

 

He took a piece of all our hearts.  He was the best son, brother, husband, nephew and friend.  Anyone who knew him was blessed.  For those who just met him and getting to know him, or even those he hadn’t met, will know our world is a duller place without him by hearing our stories and reading about his remarkable life.

He is survived by his wife Chelsea Sanchez Franks; his father Huey Franks (Ciara); his mother Rachel Diane Taylor (Jason); paternal grandmother Evelyn Franks Chelsea’s grandparents Vicky and Ronnie Burgess; Uncle Nick Burgess; brothers Dustin Halford (Destney), Tray Franks (Brenda) and Maverick Parker; aunts Toddie Garcia (Ernie) and Frankie Trevino (Elias) Uncle David Mathews (Minnie); numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and other extended family and friends.

Visitation will begin at 9:00 AM Wednesday, September 4, 2024 at Calvary Baptist Church in Bay City.  Funeral service will be at 10:00 AM with Rev. Lane Par Due officiating.  

Visitation will begin at 1:00 PM Thursday, September 5, 2024 at New Hope Church of God in Pioneer, LA.  Funeral service will be at 2:00 PM with Rev. Jerry Salisbury officiating.  Interment will follow at the New Hope Church of God Cemetery.

Taylor Bros. Funeral Home
 


Anita Frankson

May 27, 1929 - July 25, 2021

Heaven gained another angel in Anita Frankson, who served her time on Earth as a loving mother, grandmother, nurse, Pink Lady volunteer and singer in the choir at First United Methodist Church of Bay City, Texas.

Anita Joyce Frankson was born on May 27, 1929 in Enid Oklahoma to Samuel and Opal Danner of Palacios, Texas.  She was the first of their two daughters and shared her childhood and her life with her sister, Myra Danner Brhlik. She graduated from Palacios High School in 1947, then spent 3 years at Jeff Davis Nursing School in Houston before dropping out in 1951 to marry Dr. M. C. Frankson, a veterinarian from Palacios, Texas. They spent their first three months of marriage in Chicago, Illinois, where Dr. Frankson trained to be a meat inspector.  They settled in Bay City, Texas in 1953.  After her youngest son entered 1st grade, she completed her nurses training at WCJC and worked as a Licensed Vocational Nurse at Matagorda General Hospital.  She loved bowling and reading. Upon retirement, she volunteered for the Matagorda General Hospital Auxiliary Volunteers (Pink Ladies) where she achieved “Emeritus Status”. 

She was a member of the First United Methodist Church, and she sang regularly in the choir. She travelled the world, visiting Hawaii, Puerto Rico, the Bahamas, the US Virgin Islands, and Yugoslavia. She was a loving grandmother to her grandchildren and often had a sweet dog as her pet.

She enjoyed Bay City Blackcat football games and was a season ticket holder for many years. In her golden years, she regularly attended plays and other cultural events in Bay City, and even took up piano lessons for a short time. In her later years, she and her son Donnie both lived at the Legacy Assisted Living Facility, where Anita was often visited by her five grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.

Anita passed quietly in her sleep on July 25, 2021 at the age of 92. She is survived by her sister, Myra Brhlik of Palacios, Texas; her sons and their wives: Jim and Diana Frankson, Donnie Frankson, and Sam and Susan Frankson, all of Bay City, Texas; her grandchildren, their spouses, and her great-grandchildren: Ashley Frankson Hill and Steve Hill (with Harper and Hudson); Matthew Frankson and Hayley Henderson-Frankson; Erik Frankson and Patti Mathes Frankson (with Clifton); Megan Frankson Zapalac and Collen Zapalac (with Luke and Zach); and Mary Katherine Frankson; as well as nephews, nieces, and great-nieces and great-nephews.

The family will receive friends and relatives for visitation 9 a.m. Friday, July 30, 2021 at the First United Methodist—Chapel (corner of 5th Street and Avenue G) in Bay City, Texas. Funeral services will begin at 10 a.m. with David King officiating. Interment services will be private. Pallbearers for Anita will be Matthew Frankson, Erik Frankson, Ira Rose, George Durett, Emil Sliva, and Steve Hill.

The family wishes to thank the nurses and caregivers at Matagorda Nursing & Rehab and IPH Hospice Care for their care of Anita in her final days.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations be made in Ms. Frankson’s name to your favorite charity of choice.

Online condolences may be shared with the family by visiting www.taylorbros.net

Arrangements are made with Taylor Bros. Funeral Home (979) 245-4613

Bay City Tribune, July 27, 2021
 


Donald Stephen Frankson

August 16, 1954 - September 05, 2023

Donald Stephen Frankson, 69, of Bay City passed away September 5, 2023. He was born August 16, 1954, in Bay City, Texas to the late Dr. Maynard C. “Doc” Frankson and Anita J. Danner Frankson.

Complications at birth caused Donnie to fight an uphill battle from his first day on earth. Donnie loved people and his heart was full of love for his family. If you were his friend, he had the ability to get to know you on a higher level and deeply cherish your friendship. Donnie had a photographic memory and the ability to remember even the smallest details of an event he attended or a job task he had to perform. Donnie graduated from Bay City High School in 1973.  After graduation Donnie worked at several jobs prior to becoming a Warehouse Manager for EDCO, and later Evans Oil Company. Before entering assisted living, he enjoyed working for Dee Golden in her nursery in Palacios.  Donnie loved the Astros, Texans, the Texas Aggies, and the Bay City Blackcats. He enjoyed photography, travelling and especially being around the people that he loved.  Donnie had a knack for endearing himself to his employers, co-workers, care takers, and anyone else who spent time with him.

He was preceded in death by his parents. Survivors include brothers Jim Frankson and wife, Diana; Sam Frankson and wife Susan; nieces and nephews Ashley Frankson Hill and husband Steve; Erik Frankson and wife Patti; Matthew Frankson and wife Hayley; Megan Frankson Zapalac and husband Collen; and Mary Katherine Frankson; 8 great nieces and nephews, and his uncle Courtland Frankson and wife Marie.

Visitation will begin at 1:00 PM Wednesday, September 13, 2023, at the First Methodist Church Chapel. Funeral service will be at the First Methodist Church Chapel at 2:00 PM with Rev. Christopher McNeill officiating. Interment will follow at the Palacios Cemetery.

Pallbearers will be Jim Frankson, Sam Frankson, Erik Frankson, Matthew Frankson, Bruce Grover and Kelsey Granberry. Honorary pallbearers are Steve Hill, Collen Zapalac, and Dee Golden.

Bay City Tribune, September 10, 2023
 


Harry L. Frankson

June 19, 1942 – March 24, 2018

Harry L. Frankson, 75, of Port Lavaca passed away March 24, 2018. He was born June 19, 1942 in El Campo to Frank Maynard and Hilda Bengston Frankson. Harry was raised in the Carancahua Community and attended Palacios Public Schools and graduated in 1961. After graduating from High School, Harry attended the University of Oklahoma School of Banking. He was also a member of the United States Air Force Reserves from 1962 until 1968.

Harry had recently retired after 53 years from International Bank of Commerce in Port Lavaca, formerly known as First State Bank and Trust Co. as Executive Vice President focused on Commercial Lending. He had just received a letter from Palacios ISD recognizing him as one of two 2018 Distinguished Alumni and he was to be honored at the 2018 graduation ceremony. He was a pillar of the community in Calhoun County and helped many people. He was a politician that never sought office. Harry was definitely “one of a kind.”

He was a lifetime member of the Houston Livestock & Rodeo Association, member and past President of the Calhoun County Fair Association, and member of the Calhoun County Extension Service Advisory Board. Past President of the Rotary Club, member and past Director of the Port Lavaca Chamber of Commerce. Member of the First United Methodist Church, past Chairman of the Board of Trustees, He was former President of the Calhoun County Sheriff Reserves and member of the Texas Peace Officers Association. Harry was a member of the Board for the Calhoun County Concerned Citizens for Youth, which established the first “Boot Camp” for Calhoun County. He received the 2016 Man of the Year Award from Port Lavaca Chamber of Commerce.

Harry’s hobbies included assisting his son with his Cattle Operation, hunting and traveling.

He is survived by his wife of 33 years, Carol S. Frankson; daughter, D’Anna Owens (Donald); sons, Mitchell Lawrence Frankson and Cody Michael Frankson (Monica); brother, Albert Courtland Frankson; grandchildren, Brenden, Sonora “Kiki” and Mary Faith Owens and 1 great-grandson.

He was preceded in death by his parents and brothers, Donald Frankson and Maynard Clifton “Doc” Frankson.

Visitation will be held on Tuesday, March 27, 2018 from 5-7 p.m. at Richardson-Colonial Funeral Home. Funeral Services will be Wednesday, March 28, 2018 at 10 a.m. at First United Methodist Church in Port Lavaca with Rev. Kelli Williamson officiating. Burial will follow in Palacios Cemetery with military honors under the auspices of the Calhoun County Veterans Joint Honor Guard.

In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be made to the Methodist Children’s Home or First United Methodist Church.

The family asks that everyone wear red to the funeral to honor Harry.

Richardson-Colonial Funeral Home
 


Elizabeth Frawley

March 15, 1930 - July 09, 2022

Elizabeth Frawley, 92, passed away peacefully at her home in Bay City, TX on July 9, 2022 surrounded by family.  She was born March 15, 1930 in Nottingham, England to the late Richard Mansfield and Gladys Hutchinson-Mansfield.

Elizabeth adored her family and left a legacy of always seeing the best in every situation and person.  Elizabeth was a devout Christian and a member of St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, Augusta, GA and later St. Mark’s Episcopal Church, Bay City, TX.  She enjoyed her daily devotional, sewing, knitting, crocheting, swimming, bird watching, and visiting with family.  

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 62 years William Frawley Jr;  her parents; daughter, Bonnie Frawley-Justice, and grandson Ryan Patrick Frawley.

She is survived by her sons Richard (Sandra) Frawley of Bend, OR, Thomas (Deborah) Frawley of Lee Center, NY, Timothy (Patricia) Frawley of Bay City, TX; daughters, Theresa (Greg) White of Brighton, MI and Kathleen (Richard) LaFontaine of N. Augusta, SC; son-in-law Jerry Justice of Lenoir City, TN; 16 grandchildren; 26 great grandchildren; three great-great grandchildren; four sisters-in-law, and numerous nephews and nieces. 

Memorial Services for Mrs. Frawley will be Saturday, July 16, 2022, 10:00 am at her home church St. Mark’s Episcopal Church in Bay City, TX. Final resting place will be in Webster, NY at Holy Trinity Church 1460 Ridge Rd, Webster, NY 14580.

In lieu of flowers, donations are being accepted for the Elizabeth Frawley Memorial gift to St. Mark’s Episcopal Church 2200 Avenue E, Bay City, TX 77414.

Bay City Tribune, July 13, 2022
 


Marcus "Mepaw" Frazier

July 28, 1948 - September 06, 2021

Marcus Emmanuel “Mepaw” Frazier, age 73, of Bay City entered the gates of heaven on September 6, 2021 in Victoria, TX.  He was born three months early on July 28, 1948 to W. E. “Tank” Frazier and Mary Louise Huebner Frazier in Baton Rouge, Louisiana.

When Marcus was 5 years old, the family moved to Bay City.  He joined the Army in 1968 and served in Vietnam from 1968-1969 and was honorably discharged in 1971.  He was a life member of VFW Post 2438. He was a teamster at STP at the time of his retirement in 2012.  After retirement he spent his hours either at his ranch checking on cattle, or with his grandsons.

He was preceded in death by his parents. He is survived by his daughter Laura Locke (Brian); son Marc Frazier (Taina); sister Karyl Chalfant (Skip); brother Hollis Frazier (Bonnie); grandsons Marcus Ethan Frazier, Will Frazier, Trevor Frazier; the mother of his children Denise Frazier; many cousins, nieces, nephews and his best four-legged friend Boe.

Visitation will begin at 9:00 AM Saturday, September 11, 2021 at Taylor Bros. Funeral Home.  Funeral service will be at 10:00 AM with Rev. Lane Par-Due officiating.  Interment will follow at Roselawn Memorial Park.  Pallbearers will be Marc Frazier, Ethan Frazier, Will Frazier, Trevor Frazier, Hollis Frazier and Lee Thompson.  Honorary pallbearers will be Dudley Huebner, Jeff Davis and Raleigh Conklin.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to Angels Health Care and Post-Acute Rehabilitation Center for taking care of him during his final days.

Taylor Bros. Funeral Home
 


Judy Lynn Frick

July 10, 1966 - July 04, 2021

Judy Lynn Frick (McBee), 54, of Bay City passed away July 4, 2021 in Houston, Texas. She was born July 10, 1966 to Joseph Gerald McBee and Shirley Ardine Rooks Hattenbach.

Judy loved country music and was an Aristocat at Bay City High School. Her favorite color was blue and she loved to cook homemade meals especially Italian or pasta dishes. She was well known for a few of her recipes by friends and family. Her most popular recipe was her chicken spaghetti. She was a loving mother, daughter, and big sister. She was the first one to call on when you needed a listening ear. She will be truly missed.

She was preceded in death by her father Joseph McBee. She is survived by her daughters, Tiffany Lynn Cervantes, and Kayla Nicole Staff, grandchildren Cayden Lane Cervantes, Raelynn Paige Cervantes, and Kinlee Grace Valladares, mother Shirley Hattenbach, brother Jason McBee, and sister Lisa O'Neal.

Memorial services for Judy will be scheduled at a later date.

Taylor Bros. Funeral Home
 


Patricia Ann Frick

May 7, 1970 – October 3, 2021

Patricia Ann Frick, 51, of Bay City passed away on Sunday, October 3, 2021 in Bay City, Texas. She was born on May 7, 1970 in San Diego, California to Barbara Jean Spencer and Claude Hudson.

She made the best stuffing and was the best grandmother.

She enjoyed being a radio talk show host, making wreaths, doing arts and crafts.

She was preceded in death by her mother; Barbara Jean Spencer; brother, James Warren; grandparents, Allen William Spencer and Faye Esther Spencer.

She leaves to cherish her loving memories, husband, Otto Frick of Bay City; sons, Cody Lyle Hudson and wife Ana of Sweeny, William Kirk Hudson of Bay City and Eric Frick; daughters, Macey Linsinbigler and husband Charles of Avon Park, Florida and Elizabeth Frick of Birmingham, Alabama; sisters, Lisa Presley and husband Jessie, Sandra Hargrove and husband Bill both of Bay City; brothers, Charles Hargrove, Bay City and Allen Warren of Jail, Texas; 9 grandchildren, other relatives and friends.

A memorial service will be held at a later date.

Final arrangements entrusted to Dixon Funeral Home of Brazoria at (979) 798-9113.

Bay City Tribune, October 10, 2021
 


Robert Lewis Frick

April 13, 1954 - September 09, 2022

Robert Lewis Frick, 68, of Kyle, Texas, passed away Friday, September 9, 2022 in San Marcos, Texas. He was born on April 13, 1954 in Bay City, Texas, to the late Clara Marie Babb and V. L. Frick.

Bob Frick was a resident of Markham, Texas for 60 years in which him and former wife raised their 3 children. He spent the last 8 years of his life making an amazing group of friends in Kyle, Texas.

Any person who knew Bob will never forget his passion for building things and his extreme knowledge of building anything, him wanting to help others build things, tinkering with anything he could get his hands on in the shop, his love for music, instruments he couldn't play, his colorful language, his real personality that just made people want to be around him, his willingness to lend an ear just to listen to anyone and to also give the shirt off his back to anyone, his "famous" phrase, his love for Bob's Barn and for all of those who shared it with him.

Bob was an influence to those around him to work and love hard. He had a knack for making people laugh and his was pretty contagious.

He loved sitting down and just listening to his records accompanied by a Pepsi.

Even in his ending moments of life he still found ways to go down in true Bob fashion by making others laugh and giving them a hard time.

Robert was preceded in death by his parents, V.L. and Clara Frick; brother, V.L. Frick, Jr. “Scooter”; and sister, Carol Hoffman. He is survived by his daughter, Rachel Trevino (Steven); sons, R.L Frick (Terry), and Christopher Frick (Crystal); sister, Lois McDermott; grandchildren, Makayla Harley, Allix Trevino, Chelsi Schneider, Clay Frick, Christian Frick, Camryn Frick, and Chloe Frick; and great-grandchildren, Riley Schneider, Paisley Schneider, and Presley Schneider.

The Family will receive friends and relatives for visitation at 9:00 am Friday, September 16, 2022, at Calvary Baptist Church in Bay City, Texas. Funeral Services will begin at 10:00am with Reverend Lane Par-Due officiating.

Taylor Bros. Funeral Home
 


Jane Hawkins Furse Friedman

April 5, 1957 - April 25, 2021

Janie, beloved wife, mother, daughter, sister, aunt and friend left the world far too soon on April 25, 2021. First child of Austen and Margaret Furse, she was born in Houston, TX on April 5, 1957 with a feisty, hilarious and unrelenting energy that defined her entire life. From early days racing up the steps of the Columbia Low Library as a toddler and traumatizing undergraduates to zooming around her family ranch in Texas, Janie's spirit was unparalleled.

Big sister to Mary, Austen and John, Janie grew up in Bay City, Texas before attending The Hockaday School in Dallas and graduating from Wellesley College in 1979. One weekend visiting with friends in New Haven, she met third year Yale Law student John Friedman, who was instantly smitten. They began a relationship as tender as it has been enduring and were married in November of 1982 in Bay City. It survived cross country commutes and even a luxury world tour with Janie's parents, which Janie wisely skipped, prompting many requests from friends: "Will you please send your husband on vacation with MY in-laws?" Janie didn't want a large wedding or even a honeymoon. She lost those battles as her newfound New Yorker family descended on the small Texas town to smother her with love, welcoming her into the fold. And no one dropped more Yiddish than this Texas gal. We are, after all, "Mishpocha."

Even after settling in NYC, Janie remained committed to her Texas roots and actively engaged as a partner in the family ranch, meeting routinely with siblings and cousins in Texas. She was equally dedicated to her career as a journalist - first at the New York Post and then the Daily News. She radiated uptown elegance and disarming wit amidst gritty newsrooms. At the rewrite desk when not participating in witty repartee with her fellow journalists, she made fast work of whatever came over her desk: a parade, a plane crash, or the dramatic outcome of America’s Fastest Chihuahua race - inspiring her daughters to call her “badass” and colleagues to dub her “Rewrite Royalty”."She was the best rewriter. She could clean up your copy fast." Her colleagues loved her deadpan humor.

Travel was a great passion, and Janie was as at home in a cocktail dress as she was in leggings and a backpack. Friends remember laughing their faces off whenever they travelled with her. Janie loved going away with one daughter at a time. Before ZZ began law school, the two summited Mount Kilimanjaro. A few years later, Janie and Meredith tackled an extended stretch of the Camino de Santiago, mere months after her cancer diagnosis. Undeterred as ever, Janie walked every inch of their 110 mile stretch shortly after finishing her first course of chemotherapy. When she was diagnosed with ovarian cancer, Janie took the news calmly and with grace. As in all things, she wanted to do everything (even a grueling 8-hour surgery) with minimal fuss and a sense of humor. When her husband John entered the recovery room, he found a loving wife who awoke with a smile on her face to say: "Thank god! I must not be in heaven if you're here!" Thereafter she turned even chemo into a social event-referring to it as the "juice bar" and holding court with a rotating band of friends. Even in hospice care, Janie remained kind, clever and unendingly vibrant. Her deadpan style was still sharp. Rather than wallowing in self- pity Janie demanded jokes or political news updates. She was as clear as could be: "No boo hoo." Which is hard because we love her so much. Still, despite, our sadness at her departure, we will hold Janie in our hearts forever, a hilarious, kind and unstoppable warrior.

Some women have beauty and elegance: some have brilliance and humor; and some have giant hearts, but Janie Furse had all of those things. She will be missed.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to Navigators USA (https://navigatorsusa.org) or the Psychoanalytic Association of New York (https://pany.org).

Bay City Tribune, May 26, 2021
 


Stephen North Fry

September 19, 1955 - January 9, 2023

Stephen North Fry, 67, came into this world September 19, 1955, and it will never be the same again without him. He was a devoted Husband and Father who will be sorely missed. He was born in Spur, Texas to A.T. and Melva North Fry and throughout his childhood grew up primarily in Fort Morgan, CO graduating in 1973 from Fort Morgan High School.

In 1981 he married Jeanie Fry, the girl next door and started a family. He always made sure his family never went without and was taken care of.  He moved his little family from Fort Morgan, CO to Hobbs, NM and eventually to Bay City, Texas in 1999.

In Colorado he loved assisting farmers or ranchers with trapping coyotes, beavers, and many other creatures. He was even known to raise a few stray crows. He never let an animal suffer and had a very high regard for animal welfare and nature.  He put up with every stray animal his kids brought him with love and devotion, and he taught his kids to be devoted animal lovers as well.

He worked for Phillips Petroleum for 15 years before moving to Bay City Texas to start a solo contract career and he loved it. He loved being in the field working outdoors and taking care of oil leases.  He truly loved working hard but due to health reasons he was forced (and I do mean forced) to give it up and focus on his health.

He passed away January 8, 2023, the day after his 42nd wedding anniversary. He fought as hard as he could to stay with us as long as he could.

In his final wishes, Steve wishes were that everyone embrace life, live with a heart of gold, and cherish the things that matter most.  He is dearly missed by his family, friends, and we have been robbed of some of the best years of his twilight.

He is survived by his wife: Jeanie Fry; daughter: Holly Fry; son Taylor Fry & Fiancé Ashlie Holder; and three grandchildren: Johnathan, Levi and Kaylie.

A memorial service will be held Friday, January 13, 2023 at the Matagorda County Birding Nature Center starting at 1:00 PM

Taylor Bros. Funeral Home
 

 

Copyright 2021 - Present by Carol Sue Gibbs
All rights reserved

Created
May 26, 2021
Updated
May 26, 2021
 

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