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Matagorda County Obituaries F |
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Carol Suzanne “Suzie” Fanson, 51, of Bay City, Texas, passed away October 31, 2025. She was born March 19, 1974, in Houston, Texas, to the late George Arnold Fanson and Carmel Raylene Reynolds Fanson. To all her family and friends, she was known as Suzie. Suzie was a loving mother, grandmother, sister and friend. She loved her many nieces and nephews and was known as “Aunt Squeeze” as she loved to give those big hugs. Suzie’s love for her children and grandchildren was unmeasurable, and they were what she lived for. Suzie grew up between the two towns of New Gulf where she lived with her parents & siblings and in Wadsworth where her grandparents lived. Later the family moved to Seguin, Texas where she graduated high school. Suzie was placed in art class during her freshman year of high school in which she was not happy but agreed to give it a try. She learned the skills of art and became quite the artist winning a Grand Champion Ribbon in the Guadalupe County Fair for her drawing. She continued her artwork through her adult years as a hobby and blessed others with her paintings as gifts. However, Suzie chose another path for her career and became a nurse caring for others for nearly 30 years. Shortly after finishing nursing school, Suzie married Rodney Dale Smith Sr., and they had their three children. Suzie also enjoyed listening to music, dancing and gardening but most of all spending time with her precious children & grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her grandparents, the late Arnold and Minnie Fanson; her father, George Fanson; her birth mother, Carmel Raylene Reynolds; and her mom, Mary Lewis Fanson. Survivors include their sons, Rodney Dale Smith, Jr., Austin Garrett Smith (Samantha Beaudroux); and daughter, Faith Nicole Smith (Sean Spencer); sisters, Carrie Fultz (Lonnie Fultz) and Carmin Bertling; grandchildren, Carter Dale Smith, Chloe Nicole Smith, and Carsyn Leigh Smith; and numerous nieces and nephews. The family will receive relatives and friends for Visitation at 1:00 PM Wednesday, November 5, 2025, at Taylor Bros. Funeral Home. Funeral Services will begin at 2:00 PM, with Bobby Williams officiating. Online condolences may be shared with the family by visiting www.taylorbros.net
Taylor Bros. Funeral Home |
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Jaime Ferretiz, 46, passed away February 16, 2026 at his home surrounded by family. He was born October 6, 1979 in Palacios, TX, the son of Antonio and Sulema Rocha Ferretiz. Jaime had a beautiful heart; the life of any room he walked into. He would have stories for days if you brought up a subject he read about, watched recently, or had experienced. He would make jokes that would make you laugh to tears from the moment he woke up til he went to bed and even sometimes in his sleep. Most of all he cared deeply for the ones he loved. Survivors include his wife of 2 years and love of 7 years Ashley Lamphier; step children, Kaylee Sobon, Mathias Sobon, Dominick Sobon; his children, Jaime Ferretiz, II, Nathaniel (Sunny) Ferretiz, Sulema (Chica) Ferretiz, and Anthony Ferretiz; brothers, Marcelino Flores, Pablo Rocha and wife Monica, Juan Ferretiz and Stephen Ferretiz. He also leaves behind many aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, nephews, as well as many friends. He will be deeply and greatly missed, even more than he missed shrimping on the Gulf of Mexico.
Baum Carlock Bumgardner
Funeral Home, Mineral Wells, Texas & Palacios Beacon,
February 25, 2026 |
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Michael Craig Finster, 67, of Bay City, passed this life to be with the Lord on July 26th in his home. Mike was born on June 23rd, 1958, to Harvey and Waldena Finster here in Bay City. He attended Bay City High School and Wharton County Jr. College to study being a machinist. Mike was married to Martine Finster and the father to Michael Finster and Amy Finster. Mike worked as a machinist throughout his life and took a position with Phillups Petroleum in 1990 until he retired in 2018. During time off, Mike enjoyed Motorcycles and Music. He is survived by His wife Martine Finster, Son Michael Finster, Daughter Amy Finster and Shawn Brown, Granddaughter Kirra Schneider, Sisters Nancy Warren and Frances Turner, Nephews: Jeffery Hines, Gene Frank, Nieces: Carrie Steel (Randall), Sherry Frank, and Stacey Glavosek and Husband Steve. Michael Craig Finster’s Celebration of Life will be held at Calvary Baptist Church, 3321 6th St, Bay City, TX 77414 at 11:00 A.M. on Saturday, August 23, 2025. Memorial contributions may be made to Calvary Baptist Church, Youth Group.
Bay City Tribune,
August 17, 2025 |
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In Loving Memory of Pastor Antonio Garcia “Tony” Flores. Tony Flores, beloved pastor of Living Word Church in Palacios, Texas, passed away peacefully, surrounded by family, on October 10th, 2025. Tony was a devoted husband to Ramona and loving father to their children. His grandchildren and great-grandchildren brought a smile to his face and warmth to his heart. Pastor Tony was known not only for his deep spiritual wisdom but also for his warm sense of humor, gentle patience, and joyful spirit. His laughter was contagious, his counsel steady, and his presence a source of comfort to all who knew him. As pastor of Living Word Church for over 35 years, he shepherded his congregation with humility and grace, preaching the Gospel with clarity and conviction. His ministry was marked by compassion, outreach, and a deep commitment to the people of Palacios. Outside the church, he found peace in simple pleasures—casting a line by the water, tending to his garden, and sitting on his porch watching the sunset with Ramona by his side. He and Ramona recently celebrated 62 years of marriage—a milestone that reflected a lifetime of love, partnership, and shared faith. In his final days, he treasured drives along the bay, visits with his sisters, and the warmth of family and friends. He deeply appreciated every visit, each one bringing a smile to his face and a moment of joy to his heart. He leaves behind a legacy of faith, love, and service that will continue to inspire his family, his church, and the community he so dearly loved. He was preceded in death by his parents, Abelardo and Rosaura, and by his brothers, Lalo and Thomas. Survivors include his wife, Ramona Cervantes Flores; daughters, Sonia Martinez and Celeste Flores; sons, Mark Flores (Lolita) and Javier Flores; sisters, Ophelia Perez, Stella Martino, Evangeline Hilburn, and Pilar Flores; grandchildren, Amaris Escalona, Ariel Arteaga, Preston Flores, Matthew Flores, Julian Flores, Adrian Flores, Dominic Flores, and Lincoln Flores; and great-grandchildren, Jude Ellis, Auden Arteaga, Evie Escalona, Jazmine Flores, Nicholas Flores, and Ariya Flores. The family would like to extend a very special thank you to his great-niece, Alexandria Hinds, for providing compassionate and devoted care that brought him comfort at home. She was “his Alex.” A memorial service will be held at Living Word Church on Wednesday, October 15th at 11:00 a.m. to honor his life and celebrate the enduring impact of his ministry. Interment will follow at Palacios Cemetery. Honorary pallbearers will be his grandsons.
Taylor Bros. Funeral Home |
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With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of our beloved older sibling, brother, cousin, and uncle, Ediberto “Buddha” Flores, who departed this life on March 3rd, 2026, at the age of 34. Ediberto “Buddha” Flores, 34, of Blessing passed away March 3, 2026. He was born January 26, 1992, in Brenham, Texas, to Martin Flores and Sanjuanita Moreno Flores Buddha was a pillar of strength, wisdom, and unwavering love within our family. As an older brother, he naturally stepped into the role of protector, mentor, and friend. He led by example teaching us the value of love, integrity, and kindness. His guidance shaped our paths, and his steady presence was a comfort we could always rely on. As a cousin, he kept family bonds strong, bringing laughter to gatherings and reminding us of the importance of staying connected. As an uncle, he was patient, playful, and proud never missing an opportunity to encourage, support, or celebrate the accomplishments of his nieces and nephews. To them, he was not only family, but a hero and role model. Buddha will be remembered for his warm smile, generous heart, Big bear hugs and the countless ways he showed up for those he loved. Whether through quiet advice, shared stories, or simple acts of service, he left a lasting imprint on everyone who knew him. He is survived by his parents, Martin and Sanjuanita Flores; paternal grandmother, Maria Inez Diaz; maternal grandmother, Justa Moreno; sisters, Erica Flores, Jerika Flores (Samuel), Maranda Flores (Alysha) and Roselyn Flores; and brothers, Martin Flores, Jr. (Cecily) and Zane Flores; along with many relatives and friends who will cherish his memory forever. He was preceded in death by Paternal Grandfather, Armando Flores; Maternal Grandfather, Ramiro Moreno, Sr.; and Cousin, Enrique “Ricky” Rubio. A service to honor and celebrate his life will be held from 5:30 PM until 7:00 PM Tuesday, March 10, 2026, at Taylor Bros. Funeral Home. Funeral Service will be at 10:00 AM Wednesday, March 11, 2026, at Discover Life Church in Markham, with Rev. Sonny Salas officiating. Interment will follow at St. Peter’s Catholic Cemetery in Blessing. Fellowship will be right after burial at the Blessing Community Center. Pallbearers will be Martin Flores, Maranda Flores, Mike Alvarado, Hector Luna, Alexis Arteaga, Samuel Garcia, Candelario “Jr” Izquierdo, Zane Flores. Honorary Pallbearers are Jeremiah Flores, Braxton Diaz, Nicholas Palomares, Tony “TJ” Martinez Though our hearts ache in his absence, we find comfort in the love he gave so freely and the legacy he leaves behind. His memory will live on in the lessons he taught us, the love he shared, and the family he helped hold together. May he rest in eternal peace.
Taylor Bros. Funeral Home |
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Esperanza “Hope” Flores, 57, of Bay City passed away January 13, 2026. She was born January 10, 1969 in Palacios, Texas to the late Urbano Vasquez and Florencia Zavala Vasquez. Hope cherished every moment spent with her family and friends and husband of 18 years. She found joy in watching movies, trying new recipes, and most of all, sharing time with her beloved son. She was a warm, fun-spirited, and caring soul whose smile could brighten any room. Always willing to lend a hand, Hope touched countless lives with her kindness and generosity. Her faith was strong, and she faced her battle with cancer with remarkable courage and grace. She will be remembered forever by all who knew and loved her. Heaven has gained one of it’s sweetest angels. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by siblings Rachel Vasquez and Hector Vasquez. Survivors include her husband, Pete Flores III; son Ethan Ayden Flores; sister Irma Pena, brother Valdemar Vasquez and mother-in-law Lupe Flores as well as her nieces and nephews. Visitation will begin at 5:00 PM Monday, January 19, 2026 at St. Anthony’s Catholic Church in Palacios. A Rosary will be recited at 6:00 PM. Funeral Mass will be at 10:00 AM Tuesday, January 20, 2026 at St. Anthony’s Catholic Church. Interment will follow at Palacios Cemetery. Pallbearers will be Ethan Flores, Adrian Pena, Andrew Pena, Vincent Pena, Elias Torres and Elpidio Torres. Honorary pallbearers will be Brandon Fabian and U. J. Vasquez.
Taylor Bros. Funeral Home |
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Edna—Mary Lee Fojtik, 60, of Edna died Monday, Nov. 16, 1992. She was born Nov. 18, 1931 in Bay City to Eva Hamm Layton of Wadsworth and the late David Joseph Layton. She was a homemaker and a member of St. Agnes Catholic Church of Edna. She was a former member of Catholic Daughters of America. Survivors: husband, Albert Fojtik; daughters, Linda Gregory, Beverly Lambert and Shirley Garza, all of Edna; sons, Wesley Fojtik, Bill Fojtk, Robert Fojtik, David Fojtik, Michael Fojtik and Kenneth Fojtik, all of Edna; mother; sisters, Dorothy Foster of Wisconsin and Lillian Adams and Betty Lou Layton, both of Bay City; brothers, D. L. Layton of Bay City and Willie Layton of Houston; and 13 grandchildren. Preceded in death by: father; sister, Helen Layton; and two grandchildren. Rosary: 7 p. m. Tuesday at Slavik Funeral Home chapel, the Rev. Michael O’Shaughnessy officiating. Services: 10:30 a. m. Wednesday at St. Agnes Catholic Church in Edna, the Rev. O’Shaughnessy officiating. Burial: Memory Gardens cemetery, Edna, Slavik Funeral Home, Edna, 782-2152. Pallbearers are sons: Wesley Fojtik, Bill Fojtik, Robert Fojtik, David Fojtik, Michael Fojtik and Kenneth Fojtik.
Victoria Advocate,
November 17 & 18, 1992 |
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Louise A. Force, 91, of St. Edward, NE, passed away on May 5, 2025, at the Good Samaritan Society in Albion, NE. A Graveside service will be 2:00 p.m., Friday, May 9, 2025, at St. Edward Catholic Cemetery, St. Edward, NE with Deacon Harlan Long officiating. Miller-Levander Funeral Home of St. Edward, NE is in charge of arrangements. Louise Anna Force, daughter of Louis and Helen (Hahn) Svetlik, was born October 22, 1933, in El Maton, TX. Louise was baptized and confirmed at St. Peters Catholic Church in Blessing, TX. She attended and graduated from Tidehaven High School in El Maton, TX in May of 1951. Louise met Max when she was working in Houston, TX and Max was stationed at Ellington Air Force base near Houston, TX. On August 2, 1952, Louise was united in marriage to Max Howard Force at St. Peters Catholic Church in Blessing, TX. Following Max’s discharge from the Air Force they returned to the family farm in St. Edward, NE. After two years of poor farming conditions, they moved to Lincoln, NE where Louise was employed with Steckley Seed Corn. In 1959 they moved to Bay City, TX where she was employed at First National Bank as a bookkeeper and teller. In 1972, Max’s job took them to Rich Creek, VA for two years. Finally, in 1975, they moved back to St. Edward, NE where Louise worked Wert’s Grocery until she retired in 1989. Louise was a member of St. Edward Catholic Church as well as the American Legion Auxiliary. Louise is survived by her two sons: Montgomery (Maryann) Force of Prescott, AZ; Matthew (fiancé June Deidrick) Force of Akron, OH; grandson: Ethan Force of Akron, OH; sister: Barbara (Anton) Staff of Bay City, TX; along with many nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends. She was preceded in death by her parents; husband: Max Force in 2003; infant brother: Louis Svetlik; infant sister: Mary Ann Henkes. Miller-Levander Funeral Home, St. Edward, Nebraska
Bay City Tribune, May
9, 2025 Courtesy of Shirley Brown |
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Corrigan, Texas Daniel “Pops” Franklin Fortenberry went to his final resting place on Monday September 13, 2021. He was born on October 14, 1932, in Houston, Texas to Lewis Ervin Fortenberry and Ida Fay Rodden. Pops was a devoted father, grandfather, great- grandfather, brother, uncle, cousin, and friend to all. Pops was a 1951 graduate of Sweeny High School before joining the US Marines. After the Marines, he became a boiler maker and worked many years for Hahn and Clay before venturing off to his own businesses. He retired from the Millwright Local Union 2232. He was active in the Southern Trail Riders Association. Along with being lifetime member of Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo Association. He loved his quarter horses and horse racing. Survivors include his sons: Joe Fortenberry (Tracie), Daniel Fortenberry, Ralph Fortenberry (Sylvia), Jeffrey Chambers (Nancy) and his daughters Julie French (Darryl), Karen Matcheski and Kim Martin (Scott). Pops grandchildren are Jenna, Monica, Nicholas, Claire, Joshua, Phillip, Tara, James, Jared, Stormy, Sunnye, Skye, Joey, Lauren, Kurt, Dakota, Anna, Taylor, Jeffrey, and Jacqueline along with 29 great-grandchildren and 2 great-great grandchildren. He is survived by his brothers Jack Fortenberry (Lila), Clayton Forrest and Lewis Ervin as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and devoted friends. Pops is preceded in death by his parents and granddaughter Cortney Fortenberry. Family will welcome friends and loved ones for visitation from 10:00 am to 11:00 am Thursday September 23, 2021, memorial service to follow at 11am Thursday September 23, 2021, at C.T. Baker & Sons Funeral Home West Columbia, TX.
C. T. Baker Funeral Home,
West Columbia |
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Lewis Ervin Fortenberry, Jr. was born on October 20, 1945 to the union of Lewis E. Fortenberry, Sr. and Laura MaeDell Fortenberry in Wharton, TX. He was educated at Boling High School in Boling, TX. He went on to further his education at Wharton County Jr College. He was most known for managing Zarsky Lumber Company in Wharton for over 20 years. Prior to that he was the manager of Blessing Lumber Company and in his earlier years he was a supervisor for WKM in the Rosenberg area. Mr. Fortenberry was very active in the Wharton Community. He was a Rotarian since 1997 and even Paul Harris Fellow +1, City Councilman from May 2008- February 2011 where he served on multiple boards and committees: WCJC Police Academy Board of Director, Freedom Fest Committee and was a member of the Fraternal Order of Eagles. Mr. Fortenberry was proud of his support of the Wharton Police Dept and enjoyed being a part of the first Citizens Police Academy. He was also honored by WPD as Citizen of the Year. He truly enjoyed serving the community in any capacity he could. Lewis Ervin Fortenberry, Jr. departed this life on Sunday, October 13, 2024. He was preceded in death by his father Lewis E. Fortenberry, Sr., mother Laura MaeDell Fortenberry, brothers Daniel and Jack Fortenberry. Lewis treasured his family and leaves behind his Brother Clayton Fortenberry and six children: Forest Fortenberry, Johnny Fortenberry, Barbie Fortenberry, Latisha Fortenberry, Robert Fortenberry (Rachel) and Bryan Fortenberry; 16 Grandchildren that he adored: Kyle (Kimberly), Miranda, Jordan, Laura, Tayler, Ryan, Xavier (Tiffany), Jonathan, Corban, Grayson, Heaven (Dayton), Logan, Sebastian, Diezel, Memory and Jayden along with four great grandchildren that lit up his life: Lazarus, Azariah, Jaslynn and Weston. He also leaves behind a host of nieces & nephews and many of his children's and grandchildren's friends that so lovingly called him Dad and PawPaw. **In his honor, a same day visitation and service will be held Friday October 18, 2024 at Wharton Funeral Home Chapel 515 E. Boling Hwy from 3-5:30p with funeral beginning promptly at 5:30p, Pastor Felicia Matthews, officiating. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Just Do It Now P.O. Box 787 Wharton, TX 77488. Most precious memories entrusted to Matthews Funeral Home of Wharton 979.532.2715.
Matthews Funeral Home,
Wharton, Texas |
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Dorothy Franklin - Eastview Cemetery - Photo courtesy of Faye Cunningham  |
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Hattie S. Franklin - Eastview Cemetery - Photo courtesy of Faye Cunningham  |
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Robert Lee Franklin - Eastview Cemetery - Photo courtesy of Faye Cunningham  |
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Chuck Frankson was born on July 24, 1977, to David “Brother” and Patty Frankson, and from the very beginning, he lived life with the heart of a cowboy. With heavy hearts and deep love, we announce his passing on September 24, 2025, at the age of 48. Church was a true cowboy in every sense of the word—steadfast, strong, loyal and kind. He lived his live with grit and grace, embracing the land, the lifestyle, and the values that came with it. Whether he was riding through open fields, lending a hand to a neighbor, or teaching his kids the ropes, Chuck did it all with a quiet strength and a warm smile. More than anything, Church was a devoted husband, a proud father, a loyal brother, and the kind of family man everyone could count on. He led with love, showed up without being asked, and made everyone feel welcome around his table or around a crowd pen. He is survived by his loving wife, Julie, and his cherished Top Hands: McKenlie, Canion, and Adalyn. He is also survived by his parents, David “Brother” and Patty Frankson; sister Cheryl (Dwayne) Lutz and Kelli (Tommy) Wiatrek; mother-in-law Vicki Canion; sister-in-law Kasi (Brandon) Critendon; brothers-in-law Martin (Crystal) Canion and Clinton Canion; many beloved nieces and nephews; and many aunts, uncles, cousins who were proud to call him family. Chuck is also survived by his trusted and beloved horse, Louie, who carried him across many miles and memories. He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Dr. Charles and Catherine Drapela, and David Sr. and Jo Beth Frankson; his great uncle, John C. Franklin; and his father-in-law, Lloyd Canion. Church leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and hard work. He will be deeply missed by his extended family and countless friends whose lives he touched along the trail. We extend a heartfelt thank you to all the Texas Cowboys who rode beside Chuck in life and continue to honor his memory. Your friendship, loyalty and brotherhood meant the world to him. You are honorary pallbearers in spirit—carrying his legacy forward with every ride. Though he has ridden ahead of us now, his spirit remains—in the sunsets across the pastures, in the jangle of the spur rowel hitting the country ground, and in the hearts of all who knew him. Ride easy, Cowboy. We’ll see you down the road. In lieu of flower, donations can be made to the First National Bank under the account name “Top Hands—McKenlie, Canion, and Adalyn,” honoring Chuck’s love and devotion to his children and their future.
Funeral program |
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Nellie “Nell” Norine Frazier, 87, of Victoria, formerly of Edna, died Saturday, June 3, 2006. She was born July 27, 1918, in Edna, to the late James C. and Geneva Hesse Stell. She graduated from Bay City High School and the Durham Business College. She worked as a secretary with the F. B. I. in Washington, D. C., during World War II under J. Edgar Hoover. She was an Assistant County Auditor for Jackson County and retired as a bookkeeper with the Edna Independent School District in 1987. She was a member of the First Baptist Church of Edna and served as Sunday School Teacher, YWA Leader, Secretary, and Church Librarian. She was a member of the Retired Teachers Association of Jackson County and Daughters of the American Revolution. She is survived by her husband, George R. Frazier. Preceded in death by: son, Robert Frazier; parents; sister, Jessie Stell; brothers, James Stell, Charles Stell and Travis Stell. Pallbearers: Carlos Ed Bonnot, Joey Bonnot, David Stell, Daniel Stell, Troy Stell, Kevin Buendel and Clinton Smith. Honorary Pallbearers: Joe Bonnot, Harold Bonnot, Weldon Bonnot, Pablo Negreta, John Stell, David Stell, Charles Koenig, J. V. Hayes, Edward Brown. Services will be 10 a. m. Wednesday at First Baptist Church of Edna, the Rev. Danny Reeves officiating. Memorials: In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to First Baptist Church of Edna or donor’s choice. Services under the direction of Oaklawn Funeral Home. 361-782-2221.
Victoria Advocate,
June 7, 2006 |
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Randy Earl Frontz, 68, of Bay City passed away July 26, 2025. He was born December 16, 1956, in Ravenna, Ohio. He was preceded in death by Father, William Earl Frontz; Mother, Sally Frontz Warnes; Sister, Chris Frontz Sears; niece, Leigh Anne Frontz; and nephew, Wes Frontz. He is survived by brother, William Frontz and spouse Jeanette; daughter, Jennifer Frontz Deckman; son, Nicholas Frontz and spouse Ira; and son, Matthew Frontz; grandchildren, Abigail, Zane and Zoey Deckman, Kilia and Keanu Frontz, and Austin Frontz. He is also survived by his God given family, daughter Corbyn Robles, Correa Family, Robles Family and Quiroga Family. Visitation will begin at 9:00 AM Tuesday, July 29, 2025, at the Bay City Civic Center. Funeral service will be at 10:00 AM with Pastors James King and Bobby Williams officiating. Interment will follow at Cedarvale Cemetery.
Taylor Bros. Funeral Home |