Matagorda County Obituaries
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ANGELINE M. GAAS

VICTORIA - Angeline Marie Gaas, a truly kind, caring, and gracious lady, passed away peacefully in her home on Sunday, May 3, 2009, after a lengthy illness. Her loving husband, Bernard, who has taken care of her for many years, was at her side at the time of her death.

Angeline was born in Bay City on Sept. 10, 1930 to Rudolf Stasta and Betty Kacer Stasta. Her family resided in the community of El Maton, in Matagorda County. She graduated from Blessing High School in 1948, where she excelled in academics and athletics, mainly volleyball, and was known to have been able to spike a volleyball like no one else. She attended Southwestern Business School in Houston in 1950. Angeline worked at Long Theater's business office in Bay City for two years, in addition to working for her father in his cotton gin in El Maton every summer for many years.

Angeline had a strong work ethic and was devoted to her family and her faith. She was also a die-hard Dallas Cowboys fan, and could be formidable in a test of football trivia. She could speak Czech fluently, and enjoyed teaching those in the family who were "challenged" in this area.

In May 1957, Angeline married Bernard Gaas in St. Peter's Catholic Church in Blessing. They resided in Point Comfort for 40 years and in Victoria for the last 10 years.

She is survived by her husband, Bernard; her daughter, Mary Ann Dunda; son-in-law, Darren Dunda; and two grandsons, Peter, age 3, and Andrew, age 1.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Rudolf and Bessie Kacer Stasta, along with her two brothers, Raymond and Rudolf Jr.

She will be missed and remembered by many, including long time friends, extended family members, and especially by her long time caregivers, Janie Salinas and Annie Forehand, to whom the family extends sincere appreciation and gratitude for their care, commitment and dedication in caring for Angeline.

Visitation will be held at 5 p.m. this evening, with the rosary at 6 p.m., at Rosewood Funeral Home in Victoria. The funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, May 6, at the Holy Rosary Catholic Church in Frenstat, with burial in the adjoining cemetery immediately following.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in memory of Angeline may be made to the charity of choice.

Words of comfort may be shared with the family at www.mem.com.

Arrangements by Rosewood Funeral Home, 361-573-4546.

Published in the Victoria Advocate on 5/5/2009
 

[WILBURN] HARRY GAINER.

Mr. Harry Gainer of Clemville died yesterday morning at 5 o'clock with pneumonia, and will be buried tomorrow in the Hawley Cemetery near Blessing, the funeral being from the Wm. Walker undertaking parlors.

Mr. Gainer was 55 years of age at the time of his death.

Matagorda County Tribune, Friday, November 8, 1918

William Thomas Gainer

William Thomas Gainer, 83, of Victoria died March 22, 1976 in Victoria. He was born Dec. 23, 1892 in Clemville.

Survivors include numerous nieces and nephews. Services will be held at Taylor Brothers Chapel March 23, 1976 at 3 p.m. The Rev. Warten Hornung will officiate. Burial will be in Hawley Cemetery. Arrangements are with Taylor Brothers Funeral Home.

The Daily Tribune, March 22, 1976
 

Winnie Viola Gainer

Winnie Viola Gainer, 83, of Palacios died July 1 at the Port Lavaca Nursing Home. She had been a Palacios resident for 10 years. Survivors include: daughters, Joyce Beaty and Merry Brown both of Palacios; sons, Henry Gainer of Palacios and Ben Gainer of Victoria; sisters, Mary Lou Rice of Houston and Lois Montgomery of Louisiana; brothers, John Rice of Palacios and Herbert Rice of West Columbia; 9 grandchildren and 5 great grandchildren. Funeral services were held July 3, at 4 p.m. at the Palacios Funeral Home Chapel with N. E. Balch officiating. Interment at the Hawley Cemetery in Blessing. Arrangements under the direction of Taylor Bros. Palacios Funeral Home.

The Daily Tribune, July, 1978
 

Charles Dana Gallatin
Hawley Cemetery

 

Norman Harold Galle

Funeral services will be held for Norman Harold Galle, 38, at 2 p. m. Wednesday from Holy Cross Catholic Church with the Rev. Charles Sonnier officiating.

A rosary will be said at 7 tonight at the Taylor Bros. Funeral Home Chapel.

Interment will be in the Hawley Cemetery under the direction of Taylor Bros. Funeral Home.

Galle died Sunday, March 27, 1983 in the John Sealy Hospital in Galveston as the result of burns received when a liquid storage tank filled with liquid natural gas exploded at a Phillips Petroleum Co. terminal.

He was born March 8, 1944 in Bay City.

Galle is survived by his wife Myra Vaughan Galle and three sons Todd, Bart and Jean all of Bay City; his parents, Lefty and Molly Mitchell of Blessing; grandmother, Peggy Mayhew of Bay City; sister, Kathy Cockroft of Sweeny; brother, Lawrence Mitchell of Glen Flora; and four nephews.

Pallbearers will be Tom Uher, Dan Pena, Ben Manry, Jimmy Spurr, Kenneth Smith, J. N. McDonald, Charles Ryan and Kenneth May. Honorary pallbearers will be Earl Icenogle, Frank Susik, James Ward, David Sparks and Randolph White.

A member of Holy Cross Catholic Church, he was active in the Parks and Recreation soccer program, Little League baseball, the Holy Cross Parents-Teachers Association, the Knights of Columbus and Ducks Unlimited.

He was a pipefitter for ___ Contractors.

The Daily Tribune, March, 1983                                   Photo courtesy of Faye Cunningham

KAREN GALLEGOS
 

YORKTOWN - Karen Gallegos, 55, devoted mother and homemaker, died Sunday, March 23, 2008, at home with her children after a brave struggle with cancer. She was born May 5, 1952, in Yorktown, to the late Edgar and Anna Mae Goehring Hardt.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Edward Gallegos.

Survivors are her children, Miranda Priour and Ryan Gallegos, both of Victoria; brothers, Edgar Hardt of Victoria and Brad Hardt of Bay City; sister, Trish Rios of Victoria; and her adorable granddaughter, Kadence Priour of Victoria.
Visitation will be from 4-6 p.m., Tuesday, March 25, 2008 at Finch Funeral Chapel. A funeral service will follow at 6 p.m. in the funeral home. Burial will be at a later date.

Memorial gifts to donor's choice.

You are invited to sign the online guest book at finchfuneralchapels.com.

Finch Funeral Chapel, Yorktown, 361-564-2277.

Published in the Victoria Advocate on 3/25/2008.
 

JOHNNY JOE GALVAN

BLESSING - Johnny Joe Galvan, 57, of Blessing, passed away Thursday, May 27, 2010. He was born March 10, 1953, in Olton, to Angelita Vasquez Galvan of Blessing and the late Ramon Galvan Sr. He was a member of St. Peter's Catholic Church in Blessing.

He is survived by his mother; daughters, Ester Murashita of Hawaii, Estelle Galvan, Lydia Galvan, and Sarah Galvan, all of Lake Elsinore, Calif., Rachel Galvan of Pomona, Calif., and Andrea Galvan of Ontario, Calif.; sisters, Regina Sanchez of Bakersfield, Calif., and Lala Longoria of Houston; brothers, Candelario Galvan of Blessing, Ramon "Ray" Galvan Jr. of Lamont, Calif., Macky Galvan of Houston, and Jimmy Galvan of Blessing; 18 grandchildren and one great-grandchild.

He was preceded in death by his father and son, Johnny Galvan Jr.

Visitation will be from 12 p.m. noon to 1:15 p.m. with a final viewing to follow at 1:15 p.m. on Saturday, May 29, 2010, at St. Peter's Catholic Church in Blessing. Funeral Mass will be at 2 p.m. on Saturday, May 29, 2010, at St. Peter's Catholic Church in Blessing. Burial will be at St. Peter's Catholic Cemetery in Blessing.|

Pallbearers are Danny Galvan, Mike Galvan, Robert Galvan, Alex Galvan, Mike Galvan Jr., and Frank Galvan.

Artero Memorial Chapels, Port Lavaca, 361-552-2300.

Published in Victoria Advocate on May 29, 2010
 

Armando Galvez, Sr.
(July 20, 1953 - November 15, 2007)

Armando Galvez, Sr., 54, of Bay City, passed away Thursday, November 15, 2007 in Houston, TX. He was born July 20, 1953 in Rio Hondo, TX to Antonio Rodriguez Galvez and Amelia Trevino Galvez. He was resident of Bay City for the past 20 years and attended Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church in Bay City.

He is survived by his daughter: Monica Rodriguez of Kalamazoo, MI; by his sons: Armando Galvez, Jr. of Dickinson and Luciano Galvez and wife Samantha of Fritch; by his mother: Amelia Galvez of Bay City; his sisters: Dora Gomez of Laredo, Dalia Rodriguez of Bay City, Irene Salazar of Houston and Genoveva Flores of Katy; by his brothers: Arturo Galvez of Brownsville and Tony Galvez of Bay City; and by four grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his father: Antonio R. Galvez.

The Rosary will be recited at 7:00 PM Sunday, November 18, 2007 at Taylor Bros. Funeral Home Chapel. The Funeral Mass will be held at 10:00 AM Monday, November 19, 2007 at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church in Bay City with Rev. Casey Jarzombek officiating. Interment will follow at Palacios Cemetery in Palacios, TX. Pallbearers will be Arthur Miranda, Erick Galvez, Jeremy Salazar, Tony Galvez, Jr., Carlos Miranda, Arthur Galvez, Jr., Armando Galvez, Jr. and Luciano Galvez.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.taylorbros.net

Arrangements are with Taylor Bros. Funeral Home, Bay City, TX (979) 245-4613.

www.taylorbros.net
 

Joe Gamez
(October 31, 1939 - August 23, 2007)

Joe Gamez, 67, of Bay City passed away August 23, 2007. He was born October 31, 1939 in Cuero, Texas to the late Francisco and Francisca Bocanegra Gamez. He was a former employee of the City of Bay City.

Survivors include daughter Mary Ramirez & husband Ernest of Bay City; son Ronald Gamez & wife Jennifer of Bay City; sisters & brothers-in-law Matilda & Mike Guajardo of Dayton, TX & Gloria & Joe DeLaRosa, Sr. of Bay City; brother & sister-in-law Frank & Irma Gamez of Van Vleck; and grandchildren Desiree & Darian Ramirez, Ronald Gamez, Jr. and Katilyn Gamez.

Prayer service will be 7:00 PM Monday, August 27, 2007 at Taylor Bros. Funeral Home. Funeral service will be 10:00 AM Tuesday, August 28, 2007 at the Church of God of Prophecy with Pastor Tommy Griffin officiating. Interment will follow at Roselawn Memorial Park in Van Vleck. Pallbearers will be Joe DeLaRosa, Jr., Frankie Gamez, Jr., Johnny Cervantes, Joe Perez III, Joe Gamez and Manuel Benevidas.

www.taylorbros.net                     Photo courtesy of Faye Cunningham
 

Mr. George Gann Jr., age 83 of Van Vleck died Friday, May 23, 2008 in a Houston hospital following a brief illness.

Mr. Gann was born on September 22, 1924 in Chico Texas to the late George Yeakley Gann Sr. and Sarah Antonia Drennan Gann. George was a construction worker for Brown and Root.

Survivors include: his spouse, Sissy Gann; children, Roy Drennan Gann and wife Vicki of Tucson, Arizona and George Richard Gann and wife, Martha of Tucson, Arizona, Matt Brooks and wife, Betty of Granbury, Texas, Tim Brooks of Fort Worth, and Mark Brooks and wife, Stacy of Van Vleck, fourteen grandchildren, three great grandchildren.

Following cremation, a memorial service was held at 2 p.m. on Sunday at Wild Peach Community Church in Brazoria with the Rev. Earl Brazeale officiating.

Bay City Tribune, Published May 28, 2008
 

Carlota "Carmen" Gaona
(November 29, 1909 - August 4, 2010)

Carlota “Carmen” Gaona was born in Corpus Christi, TX on November 29, 1909 to the late Frank Torres and late Josephina Ramirez. After a long, long life of 100 years, she passed away on Wednesday, August 4, 2010 in Palacios, Texas, surrounded by her beloved family. As a migrant worker, she traveled and lived in many states, making Palacios, Texas her final place of residence. She is survived by her brother Johnny R. Bustillos of Houston, TX, Grandchildren Amelia and Husband Alfonso Trevino of Flint, Michigan, Trinidad and Wife Maria Raigosa of Fort Hood, TX, Mario Sr. and wife Lilia Nunez of Irving TX, Mary Rose and Husband Daniel Galvan of Blessing, TX, and Johnny and Wife Betty Nunez of Lake Jackson, TX, and Loretta Ortega of Houston, TX., approximately 27 Great Grandchildren, 53 Great, Great Grandchildren., and 1 Great, Great, Great, Grandchild, 16 nieces and nephews, and numerous Great- Great, and Great, Great, Great nieces and nephew.

She was preceded in death by her Sons Guillermo “Willie” and wife Benita Nunez of Palacios, and Joe and wife Inez Nunez of Houston, Brothers and Sisters; Maria, Pedro, and Rodolfo Bustillos, Josephine Llanes of Sweeny, and Catalina Ramirez of Palacios; and Niece Lily Bustillos of Palacios. Visitation will be held on Saturday, August 7 from 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. at Palacios Funeral Home in Palacios, TX. Discourse will be held on Sunday, August 8, 2010, at 7:00 p.m. at Palacios Funeral Home in Palacios, TX. and Monday at 10:00 a.m. at Hawley Cemetery, Blessing, TX. Pallbearers will be Daniel and David Galvan, Johnny Nunez Jr., Mario Nunez Jr., Mark Garcia, Vincent Rojas, Edward Garza Jr. Honorary Pallbearers: Carlos Galvan, Tony Galvan, Mike Galvan, and Edward Garza Sr.

Taylor Bros. Funeral Home                                     Photo courtesy of Heather Serrill Janise

ESIQUIEL GAONA SR.
 

VICTORIA - Esiquiel "Chico" Gaona Sr., 84, of Victoria, died Tuesday, Apr. 10, 2007.
He was born Apr. 10, 1923 in McFaddin to the late Feliciano and Manuela Castillo Gaona. Retired from Safety Steel, he was a Catholic.

He is survived by: one daughter, Rosemary (Sammy) Adames of Victoria; five sons, Robert (Frances) Gaona, David (Nancy) Gaona, Esiquiel "Sonny" (Lucy) Gaona, Sammy (Mary) Gaona and Richard "Herbie" (Ida) Gaona, all of Victoria; nine grandchildren, Robert Anthony Gaona, Natalie Joy Gaona, Julie Ann Gaona Reyna, Sammy "Bubba" Gaona Jr., Anthony Louis Adames, Angela Louise Adames, Jeffery Gaona and Erica Gaona; five great-grandchildren, Nicholas Gaona, Haley Marie Gaona, Joseph Gaona, Alyssa Renee Adames and Jaelyn Renne Adames; two sisters, Rafaela Aguilar of San Antonio and Theresa Vasquez of Victoria; and two brothers, Vicente Gaona of Bay City and Victor Rodriguez of San Antonio.

He was preceded in death by: wife, Rachel Valenzuela Gaona; and one sister, Patricia White.

Visitation will begin at 1 p.m. today at Artero Memorial Chapels, with a rosary at 7 p.m. Funeral mass will be 10 a.m. Thursday at Our Lady of Sorrows Catholic Church, with burial at Edna Latin Cemetery.

Pallbearers will be Robert Anthony Gaona, Sammy "Bubba" Gaona Jr., Anthony Louis Adames, Jeffery Gaona, Eric Gaona and Daniel Reyna.

Published in the Victoria Advocate on 4/11/2007.
 

Pete Garay
(October 11, 1944 - October 4, 2005)

Pete Garay, 60, of Bay City died October 4, 2005 at the Methodist Hospital in Houston, TX. He was born October 11, 1944 in Bay City, TX to the late Anastacio and Olivia Torres Garay. Mr. Garay was a lifetime resident of Bay City and was a member of Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church. Survivors include: wife: Margaret Escamilla Garay of Bay City; sons: Pete Garay, Jr, Gilbert Garay, and Joe Garay all of Bay City, Baltimore Garay of Tuson, AZ; daughters: America Lopez, Gina Sanchez, JoAnn Garay, and Corine Montalvo all of Bay City; brothers: Anastacio Garay, Jr, of Houston, Julio Garay, Alfred Garay, Abel Garay, Adolf Garay & Steven Garay all of Bay City, Lee Garay of Houston, Tx, Felix Garay of Texas City, TX, and Benino Garay of Russellville, AR; sisters: Rosalinda Zboral, Elida Garay and Adel Martinez all of Bay City, Virginia Garza of Russellville, AR, and Erminia Garay of Angleton; 24 grandchildren and 4 great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his brothers: Jose and Paul Garay; sisters: Janie Ruiz, Benne Garay, & Maria Garay; and grandson: Gilbert Garay, Jr. Rosary will be 7:30 PM Thursday, October 6, 2005 at Taylor Bros. Funeral Home, and the Funeral Service will be 2:00 PM Friday at Taylor Bros. Funeral Home with Rev. Gerry Cernoch officiating. Interment will follow at Cedarvale Cemetery. Pallbearers will be Pete Garay, Jr, Gilbert Garay, Joe D. Sanchez, Dante Estrada, Albert Montalvo, Jr, and Mac Briscoe. Honorary Pallbearers will be Phillip Soto, Joe D. Sanchez, Jr, Branden Sanchez, Michael Garay, Jimmy Montalvo, III, Jonathan Sanchez, Jose C. Garay, and Pete Garay, III. Arrangements with Taylor Bros. Funeral Home, Bay City, TX (979)245-4613.

www.taylorbros.net             Photo courtesy of Betty Crosby

Dora Garcia
 

Florencio Montero Garcia
May 4, 1955 - January 13, 2011

Funeral services for Florencio Montero Garcia, 55, of Bay City, Texas, were Tuesday, January 18, 2011.

Mr. Garcia was born May 4, 1955  in Santa Maya Michoacan, Mexico to Vicente Montero and Guadalupe Garcia. He died January 13, 2011 in Bay City.

He is survived by his wife, Gloria G. Montero; sons, James Garcia, Florencio Martin Montero and Danny Montero; and daughters, Jennifer Montero and Janet Garcia.

Burial was in Hawley Cemetery.

Green’s Mortuary was in charge of arrangements,  979-245-3489.

Bay City Tribune, January 19, 2011
 

Haley Victoria Garcia
(May 19, 2003 - June 25, 2005)

Haley Victoria Garcia, 2, of Bay City passed away June 25, 2005 at Texas Children’s Hospital in Houston. She was born May 19, 2003 in Houston to David Farrell Garcia, Jr. and Georgeanne Chamberlain.

She is survived by her father, David F. Garcia, Jr. of Ft. Sill, Oklahoma, her mother Georgeanne Chamberlain of Bay City, her maternal grandparents, Larry and Prandy Chamberlain of Sweeny, and her sisters, Emily and Whitney Garcia of Bay City.

Graveside services will be held at 10:00 am Tuesday, June 28, 2005 at Roselawn Memorial Park in Van Vleck.

www.taylorbros.net                        Photo courtesy of Faye Cunningham
 

Inez Garcia
(January 29, 1922 - June 24, 2005)

Inez Morales Garcia, born to Paz and Juanita Morales on January 29, 1922 in Cuero, TX passed away on June 24, 2005. She was preceded in death by her husband, Reynaldo Garcia, Sr., her parents, brother Caesar Morales, and sister Cruz Bustos. She was a member of Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church.

Inez wanted nothing more than to be surrounded by her loving family and close friends to whom she was completely devoted. She brought joy to many, not only with her love of family and friends, but also with her passion for cooking and hospitality. She realized that joy as well, in working along side her sister, Ginger Hernandez, as co-owner of the El Zarape Café in Bay City, TX for over 60 years. She will be greatly missed by all those she touched.

She is survived by her children, Ray Garcia, Jr. and wife Lisa of Houston, Mundy Garcia of Bay City, Rosario Rodriguez and husband, Rolando Rodriguez, Sr. of Bay City, Regina Garcia of The Woodlands, and Rita Martinez and husband Rodolfo of Bay City in addition to 10 grandchildren, Roland Rodriguez, Jr., Robert Rodriguez, Erica, Michael and Matthew Martinez, Garrett, Cody and Mindy Garcia all of Bay City and Ray and Lauren Garcia of Houston. Inez also leaves behind brothers, Pete Moralez and wife Connie, Frank Morales and wife Elisa, Paz Morales and wife Andrea, and sisters Inocensia Ginger Hernandez and Janie Amador and husband David.

A rosary was recited at 7:00 pm Sunday, June 26, 2005 at Taylor Bros. Funeral Chapel. Funeral mass was held 2:00 pm Monday, June 27, 2005 at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church with Rev. Gerry Cernoch and Rev. Dan Morales officiating. Burial followed at Roselawn Memorial Park in Van Vleck. Her grandsons had the honor of serving as pallbearers.

Arrangements are with Taylor Bros. Funeral Home in Bay City.

www.taylorbros.net               Photo courtesy of Faye Cunningham
 

ISABELLE APARICIO GARCIA

Funeral services for Isabelle Aparicio Garcia, 90, of San Antonio, were held Oct. 1, 2008 at St. Anthony’s Catholic Church in Palacios, Tx. with Father Mike Buentello and Father Dan Morales officiating. Interment was at Palacios Cemetery.

Mrs. Garcia born to Manuela and Isaac Aparicio in Goliad, Tx. on Jan. 2, 1918. She entered into eternal life on Sept. 28, 2008.

She was a devoted wife and mother who, with deep faith, love, and tremendous trust, showed us by her example the precious gift of life. She lived to the fullest its virtues of faith, hope, and love, always serving God’s will. Mamaw, we will miss you.

She is survived by her children: Mike Garcia and wife Elba of New Milford, CT, Mary Ramirez of Galveston, Ben Garcia, Jr. and wife Mari of San Antonio, Bertha Garcia of San Antonio, Mamie Herrera of Houston, Molly Kafarela and husband Niko of Houston, Robert Garcia, Sr. and wife Mary Ann of Palacios, Liz Ramirez and husband Steve of Angleton, Carrie Lopez and husband Raul of San Antonio, Bonnie Suniga and husband Ruben of Angleton, 31 grandchildren, and 36 great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Ben Garcia, Sr., daughter Angela, son Isaac, sister Janie Gonzales, and brothers Homer and Bernard Aparicio.

Pallbearers were Chris Ramirez, Carlos Garcia, Dan herrera, Robert Garcia Jr., Marcos Lopez and Matthew Suniga. Alter servers were Kenneth Garcia Jr., Drew Morales and Anthony and Christopher Garcia.

Palacios Beacon, October, 2008
 

Jose Lara Garcia
(August 28, 1931 - January 15, 2008)

Jose Lara Garcia, 76, of Palacios passed away January 15, 2008 in Houston. He was born August 28, 1931 in Mexico to the Late Petra Garcia and Ramon Lara. Mr. Garcia was a long time resident of Palacios, and a member of St. Anthony’s Catholic Church.

He is survived by wife: Maria Lara of Palacios; daughter: Rosa Lara of Palacios; 5 sons: Jose G. Lara and Joel Lara & wife Eugenia all of Freeport, Jorge Lara & wife Maria, Jesus Lara & wife Judy, and Ismael Lara all of Palacios; 2 sisters: Esperanza Salinas of Mexico and Yolanda Salinas of Pharr, TX; 13 grandchildren, and 2 great grandchildren.

A rosary will be recited 7:00 PM Thursday January 17, 2008 at Palacios Funeral Home. Mass will be 10:00 AM Friday January 18, 2008 at St. Anthony’s Catholic Church with Father Charles Dwomoh officiating. Interment will follow at the Palacios Cemetery.

www.taylorbros.net
 

Josie “Pino” Garcia, 64, went to be with her Lord on Friday, December 17, 2010. She was born March 13, 1946 in Bay City, TX to Felipe Lopez and Tomasa Zamora Lopez. She was a life long resident of Matagorda County and a member of the Rose of Sharon Pentecostal Church of Van Vleck, TX.

She is survived by her husband: Samuel Garcia of Van Vleck; her daughter: Rose Mary Kinman of Bay City; her sons: Sammy Garcia of Bay City, Javier Garcia of Van Vleck, George Garcia of Van Vleck, Roel Garcia of Bay City, and Raymond Garcia of Bay City; by her sisters: Elena Huerta of Van Vleck, Rev. Janie Robles of Van Vleck, Angelena Quiroga of Van Vleck, Lupe DeLeon of Bay City, Mary Aguilar of Bay City, and Felipe Aguilar of Bay City; and by her brother: Ray Lopez of Manville, TX; and her grandchildren: Victoria Rutledge, Nicole Kinman, Joell Garcia, Samuel Garcia IV, Nora Campos, Gina Downs, Sonia Chino, George Garcia Jr, Brittany Garcia, Celeste Garcia, Mariah Garcia, Raymond Garcia Jr, and Amy Garcia; and by four great grandchildren.

Visitation will be at Taylor Bros. Funeral Home on Sunday from 2 PM to 9 PM. Funeral services will be held at 1:00 PM Monday, December 20, 2010 at Rose of Sharon Pentecostal Church with Rev. Janie Robles, officiating. Interment will follow at Roselawn Memorial Park in Van Vleck. Pallbearers will be: Lionel Garza, Paul Quiroga, Martin Huerta, Manuel Aguilar Jr, Felipe Lopez III, Felipe Edward Lopez, Ben Aguilar, and Mark DeLeon. Honorary pallbearers will be: George Garcia Jr, Raymond Garcia Jr, Paul Irwin, Fred Trevino, and Jerry Robles.

Remembrances and words of comfort may be shared with the family at www.taylorbros.net.

Arrangements are with Taylor Bros. Funeral Home, Bay City, TX (979) 245-4613.

www.taylorbros.net                              Photo courtesy of Faye Cunningham

Julia DeLeon Garcia
(June 19, 1928 - September 30, 2008)

Julia DeLeon Garcia, 80, of Bay City, passed away Tuesday, September 30, 2008. She was born June 19, 1928 in Bay City, TX to Jesse DeLeon, Sr. and Guadalupe Zapata DeLeon. She was a lifelong resident of Bay City, a retired cafeteria worker from the Bay City ISD and a member of the Catholic Church.

She is survived by her husband: Ezequiel Garcia, Sr. of Bay City; by her son: Sidney Garcia of Bay City; her daughters-in-law: Mary Jessie Garcia and Rose T. Garcia of Bay City; grandchildren: Brenda Reyes, Eddie Garcia, Richard Garcia, Monica Garcia, Stacie Garcia-Longoria, Ezequiel Garcia III & wife Charlotte, Jennifer Gomez, Anthony James Garcia & wife Melissa; great grandchildren: Russell Garcia, Christopher Garcia, Ashley Muraira, Sierra Garcia, Savannah Garcia, Alazae Longoria, Manuel Longoria, Selene Longoria, Davión Arellano, Anthony James Garcia Jr., Ronald Lee Gomez Jr., Gabby Garcia and Kaitlyn Gomez; and by 2 great-great granddaughters. She was preceded in death by her parents: Guadalupe and Jesse DeLeon Sr.; her sons: Ezequiel Garcia Jr, Manuel D. Garcia and Richard Garcia; by her sister: Margaret Cervantes; and her brothers: Jesse and Joe DeLeon.

A prayer service will be held at 7:00 PM Thursday at the funeral home. Funeral services will be held at 10:00 AM Friday, October 3, 2008 at Taylor Bros. Funeral Home Chapel with Pastor Ezequiel T. Garcia, III officiating. Interment will follow at Roselawn Memorial Park in Van Vleck.

Words of comfort may be shared with the family at www.taylorbros.net.

Arrangements are with Taylor Bros. Funeral Home, Bay City, TX (979) 245-4613.

www.taylorbros.net                       Photo courtesy of Faye Cunningham
 

LEONIDES "LENNY" GARCIA

PALACIOS - Leonides "Lenny" Nevarez Garcia, 65, of Palacios, passed away Tuesday, March 3, 2009. She was born April 10, 1943, in Ed Couch, to the late Leonardo Nevarez Sr. and Matiana Gonzalez Nevarez. She was a homemaker and a member of St. Anthony de Padua Catholic Church.

She is survived by her daughters, Naomi Rivas of Palacios and Alma Puentez, both of Palacios, and Angelica Garcia of El Campo; sons, Oscar Garcia Sr. of Port Lavaca, Paul Anthony Garcia Jr., Carlos Ray Garcia Sr., and Israel Garcia Sr., all of Palacios; sister, Linda Escobedo of Palacios; brothers, Wally Nevarez of Bay City, Leonard Nevarez Sr. and Leo Nevarez Sr., both of Port Lavaca, and Leonel Nevarez Sr. of Palacios; 23 grandchildren; and 12 great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Pablo Pena Garcia Jr.; sister, Leonora Garcia; and brother, Leon Nevarez.

Visitation will be after 5 p.m. Thursday with a rosary recited at 7 p.m., at St. Anthony de Padua Catholic Church in Palacios. Funeral Mass will be at 10 a.m. Friday at St. Anthony de Padua Catholic Church, with Father Charles Dwomoh officiating. Interment will follow at Palacios Cemetery.

Pallbearers will be Oscar Garcia Sr., Paul Anthony Garcia Jr., Israel Garcia Sr., Carlos Ray Garcia Sr., Leo Garcia Sr., and Ismael Lara Jr.

Honorary pallbearers are Thomas Garcia Jr., Jeremy Rivas, P.J. Garcia Jr., O.J. Garcia Jr., and Israel Garcia Jr.
Artero Memorial Chapels, Port Lavaca, 361-552-2300.

Published in the Victoria Advocate on 3/5/2009
 

Maria Guadalupe Garcia
(January 14, 1936 - January 3, 2008)

Maria Guadalupe Garcia, 71, of Pasadena, TX passed away Thursday, January 3, 2008 at Pasadena Bayshore Hospital. She was born January 14, 1936 in Mexico City, Mexico to Refujio Perez and Maria Dolores Gonzales Perez. Formerly of Bay City, she has resided in Pasadena for the past 4 years and was a member of St. Juan Diago Catholic in Pasadena.

She is survived by her husband: Amado Mera Garcia of Pasadena; her daughters: Guadalupe Estrada and Maria Isabel Medina, both of Mexico, Socorra Ramona Ramirez, Cecilia Saucedo and Aurora Garcia, of Bay City; by her sons: Francisco Javier Garcia and Jose Manuel Garcia of Mexico, Pedro Garcia of Bay City, Sergio Garcia of Pasadena and Armando Augustin Garcia of Rosharon; by a sister: Maria DeJesus Perez of Mexico; by her brothers: Raul Perez of Brownsville, Luis Perez of Tennessee, and Juan Perez of Mexico; and by 25 grandchildren and 6 great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents: Refujio & Maria Dolores Perez; and by a daughter: Judy Garcia.

The Rosary will be held at 7:00 PM Sunday, January 6, 2008 at Taylor Bros. Funeral Home. The Funeral Mass will be held at 2:00 PM Monday, January 7, 2008 at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church with Rev. Gerry Cernoch officiating. Interment will be at Roselawn Memorial Park in Van Vleck.

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

Arrangements are with Taylor Bros. Funeral Home, Bay City, TX (979) 245-4613.

www.taylorbros.net

Maria G Garcia
(February 12, 1934 - June 17, 2006)

Maria G. Garcia, 72, of Markham, passed away Saturday, June 17, 2006 in Bay City. She was born February 12, 1934 in Falfurrias, TX to Jose Maria V. Garcia and Maria Gutierrez Garcia. She was a resident of Markham since 1967.

She is survived by her Daughters & Sons-in-law: Matiana G. & Edwardo Perez of Markham, Anna Maria G. & Abraham Hernandez of Austin, Noemi G. & Donnie West of El Maton and Lorenza G. & Terry Brewer of El Maton; by her Sons & Daughters-in-law: Julian & Irma Garcia of Markham, Martin G. & Toni Jo Garcia of Bay City, Pedro & Patricia Garcia, III of Markham and David & Vicki Garcia of Markham; by her Sisters: Manuela Gonzales, Rosa Longoria and Petra Sanchez of Falfurrias and Antonia Villarreal of Houston; by her Brothers: Bernardo Garcia, Leopoldo Garcia and Jose M. Garcia, all of Falfurrias; and by 20 Grandchildren and 5 Great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents: Jose Maria V. Garcia and Maria G. Garcia; by her sister: Marcella Gonzales; and by her brother: Pedro Garcia.

A Prayer service will be held at 7:00 PM Monday, June 19, 2006 at Taylor Bros. Funeral Chapel with Bro. Saul Garcia officiating. Funeral services will be held at 2:00 PM Tuesday, June 20, 2006 at the Church of Christ on Nichols St. in Bay City with Bro. Joe Wrape officiating. Interment will follow at Cedarvale Cemetery in Bay City. Pallbearers will be Mario Rodriguez, Elizandro Perez, Armando Perez, David Perez, Daniel Perez and Martin E. Garcia. Honorary pallbearers include Marcus Rodriguez, Frank Brewer and Abraham Hernandez, Jr.

Online condolences may be sent by visiting www.taylorbros.net. Arrangements are with Taylor Bros. Funeral Home, Bay City, TX (979) 245 – 4613.

www.taylorbros.net                          Photo courtesy of Betty Crosby

Matthew Ryan Garcia passed peacefully in the arms of his parents on August 30, 2009.

Matthew Ryan was born on August 20, 2009. He was only here a short while and he touched the lives of all of his friends and family.

He is survived by: his parents Larry, Jr. and Monica Kay Garcia; maternal grandparents, Agapito, Sr. and Emma Rodriguez; paternal grandparents, Steven and Carrie Palmer and Larry, Sr. and Lucille Garcia; Aunts and Uncles Greg and Michelle Schulz, Agapito, Jr. and Cassandra Rodriguez, Mandi Rodriguez, Joey and Mel Garcia, Ashley Garcia and Edward Perez, and Melanie Guzman. He is also survived by numerous great aunts, uncles and cousins.

The family will receive friends and relatives from 6 until 8 p.m. Wednesday, September 2, 2009 at the funeral home.

Funeral service will be at 10 a.m. Thursday, September 3, 2009 at St. Pauls United Methodist Church with the Rev. Tom Morgan officiating. Interment will follow at Roselawn Memorial Park.

The family would like to thank the staff at the Texas Childrens Hospital NICU for the excellent care provided to Matthew and his entire family. They also extend a special thanks to Pastor Tom Morgan.

Memorials may be made to Ronald McDonald House, 1907 Holcombe Blvd., Houston, TX 77030-4123.

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

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

Bay City Tribune, Published September 2, 2009               Photo courtesy of Faye Cunningham
 

NATIVIDAD "NAT" GARCIA

VICTORIA - Natividad "Nat" Garcia, 65, of Victoria, passed away Tuesday, March 11, 2008. He was born in Goliad on Sept. 8, 1942 to the late Juan and Victoria Barrera Garcia. He was a truck driver.

He is survived by his wife, Elvida Garcia of Victoria; daughters, Laurie Garcia Ramos and husband Ray Ramos, and Bebe Garcia Martin and husband Paul Martin of Victoria; sons, Robert Garcia and wife Olga, Michael Garcia and wife Kim of Victoria, and Daniel Mark Garcia and wife Crystal Garcia of Bay City; sisters, Lupe Moya of Corpus Christi, Estella Franka of Victoria, Rose Licerio of McAllen, and Terry Garcia of Houston; brothers, Domingo, Victor, and Juan Garica Jr., all of Cuero, Mario Garcia of Corpus Christi and Rene Garcia of Port Lavaca, grandchildren, Michael Crystal, Sarah, Michael II, Chris, Chelsea, Tori, Mariah, Joe, Maravilla, Bobby and Jayden; and great-grandchildren, Rayven, Kaleena, Darius, Trent, Drew, Alyssa, and Eric.

He was preceded in death by his parents and sister, Gloria Cuellar.

The rosary will be at 7 p.m., Friday, March 14, 2008 at Grace Funeral Home. Funeral service is at 10 a.m., Saturday, March 15, 2008 at Grace Funeral Home Chapel with Larry Daniels officiating. Interment will follow at Resurrection Cemetery.

Pallbearers are Robert Garcia, Daniel Garcia, Michael Garcia, Michael Garcia II, Chris Garcia, Joe Garcia, Ray Ramos, and Michael McMurtrey.

Grace Funeral Home, 361-573-4341, in charge of service.

Published in the Victoria Advocate on 3/14/2008.
 

Rafaela Salazar Garcia
 

ROMOLO PENA GARCIA

Funeral services for Romolo Pena Garcia, 81, of Palacios, Tx., were held Dec. 29, 2008 at St. Anthony’s De Padua Catholic Church with Father Charles Dwomoh officiating. Interment was at Palacios Cemetery.

Mr. Garcia was was born July 6, 1927, in Blessing, Tx. to the late Pablo Garcia Sr. and Guadalupe Pena Garcia. He died Dec. 24, 2008.

He was a retired metal refinisher and a Catholic.

He is survived by his daughters, Sylvia Ann Davalos of Markham, Elvia Marie Saldierna of Palacios, Yvette Fay Sanchez of Palacios, and Liza Marie Rodriguez of Bay City; son, Mario Garcia of Palacios; sisters, Virginia Benavides of Corpus Christi and Geneva Cooke of Palacios; brothers, Thomas Garcia of Houston and Arturo Garcia of Palacios; 14 grandchildren; and five great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Evangelina Garza Garcia; sister, Maria Rocha Garcia; and brothers, Pablo Garcia Jr., Jesus Garcia Sr., and Eusebio Garcia.

Pallbearers were Leno Garcia, Hector Garcia, Gary Garza, Oscar Garcia, Ignacio Benavides, and Michael Benavides.

Arrangements were with Artero Memorial Chapels, Port Lavaca.

The Palacios Beacon, Wednesday, December 31, 2008
 

SENOVIA LEONORE GARCIA
Nov. 20, 1953 - April 30, 2008

PASADENA - Senovia "Senora" Leonore Garcia, 54, of Pasadena, passed away Wednesday, April 30, 2008. She was born Nov. 20, 1953, in Palacios, to Gilbert Suniga Yanes and Dominga Rodriguez Yanes. She was a lifelong resident of Pasadena and a member of St. Pius Catholic Church in Pasadena.

She is survived by her daughters, Renee Marie Garcia and son-in-law Jose Ruiz, and Rebecca Lynn Esparza-Martinez and Christopher Martinez of Pasadena; by her sons, Ernest Palacios Garcia Jr. and Ricardo Esparza Jr. of Pasadena; by her parents, Gilbert and Dominga Yanes of Port Lavaca; by sisters, Judy Pena and husband Tony of Angleton, Connie Perez and husband Merced of San Antonio, Norma Yanes of San Antonio, and Karen Williams and husband Keith of Bulverde; by brothers, Gilbert R. Yanes Jr. and wife Sylvia of Palacios, and Christopher Yanes of Laredo; and by five grandchildren, Briana, Nathaniel, Anthony, Sierra and Trinton.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Ernest Palacios Garcia Sr.

The rosary will be held at 7 p.m., Saturday, May 3, 2008 at Palacios Funeral Home. Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m., Sunday, May 4, 2008 at the Palacios Funeral Home, 701 First St., Palacios, Texas, with Don Kopecky officiating. Interment will follow at the Palacios Cemetery.

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

Arrangements are with Palacios Funeral Home, Palacios, 361-972-2012.

Published in the Victoria Advocate on 5/3/2008.
 

Roosevelt “Boss Jr.” Gardner, 62, of Bay City formally of Edna, Texas, passed away on June 29, 2010.

Visitation was held from 12 p.m. - 1 p.m. on Saturday July 3, 2010 at the Shiloh Missionary Baptist Church in Edna, Texas.

Funeral services were held at 1 p.m. on Saturday July 3, 2010 at Shiloh Missionary Baptist Church on Edna, Texas with the Rev. G.L. Roberts, Pastor officiating.

Burial was held at Mt. Olive Cemetery, Edna, Texas,

Bay City Tribune, Published July 4, 2010
 

Sampson Gardner, Jr.
(November 27, 1952 - February 20, 2009)

 

Sampson Gardner, Jr., 56, of Bay City passed away Feb. 20, 2009. He was born Nov. 27, 1952 in Bay City to the late Sampson Gardner, Sr. & Nona Jenkins Gardner.
 

His sister Esther Mae Wiley and brothers Thomas Baugh, Alfred Baugh and Jesse Baugh all preceded him in death. Survivors include his wife Mona Owen Gardner; daughters Sheila Marie Gardner & Shellie Elizabeth Gardner; sons and their wives Sampson Gardner III & Patricia Luna and Scotty James & Mackenzie Gardner; sister Katherine Joiner; brothers James Earl Gardner and Donald Ray Gardner; and grandchildren Caleb DaShaun Gardner, Abigail Marie Gardner and Kyler James Gardner.

A rosary will be recited at 7:00 PM Sunday, Feb. 22, 2009 at Taylor Bros. Funeral Home. Mass will be 10:00 AM Monday, Feb. 23, 2009 at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church with Rev. Gerry Cernoch officiating. Interment will follow at Roselawn Memorial Park. Pallbearers will be Sampson Gardner III, Scotty James Gardner, James Earl Gardner, Donald Ray Gardner, Larry Amey, Emil George Owen, William Herman Owen III and William Herman Owen IV. Christopher Earl Gardner, James Tristan Gardner, Bobby Dale Wood, Jr., William Berkley Wood, Emil Owen, Donald Ray Gardner, Jr., Jeffrey Gardner, Edward Hite, Thomas Baugh, Larry Sanford, Joseph Frank Owen and Bobby Dale Wood, Sr. will serve as honorary pallbearers.

Bay City Tribune, February 25, 2009                                Photo courtesy of Faye Cunningham

HARVEY GENE GARTICA

MATAGORDA - Funeral services for Harvey Gene Gartica of Matagorda will be Saturday, Oct. 24, 2009 at 1 p.m. at First Baptist Church in Matagorda, with Rev. Richard Lewis pastor and Rev. Cornelius Bass officiating.

Burial will be at Matagorda Cemetery immediately following services.

Viewing will be today, October 23, 2009 from 4-8 p.m. in the chapel of Green's Mortuary.

Final arrangements are entrusted to Green's Mortuary of Bay City, 979-245-3489.

Published in Victoria Advocate on October 23, 2009

Bernardo "Ben" Garza
(February 16, 1938 - April 22, 2010)

www.taylorbros.net                    Photo courtesy of Faye Cunningham
 

Delmira Anita Rodriguez Garza
(July 7, 1934 - October 20, 2008)

Delmira Rodriguez Garza, 74, of Bay City passed away October 20, 2008. She was born July 7, 1934 in Karnes City, TX to the late Juan & Maria Martinez Rodriguez. She worked for Clothes, Inc. in Bay City for 20 years.

Her parents and sisters Delia Aguilar & Dora Rodriguez preceded her in death. Survivors include her husband Daniel C. Garza, Sr. of Bay City; 9 children: Pat Rodriguez, Lucy Hernandez & husband Joe, Daniel Garza, Jr. & wife Cindy, Margaret Rodriguez & husband Frank, Delfina Garza, Delia Rodriguez & husband Johnny, Eloise Huerta & husband Rubin, Darryl Garza & wife Susie & Lionel Garza & wife Betty; sisters Delfina Martinez & husband Pasqual, Neva Cortez & Tila Rodriguez; 22 grandchildren and 12 great grandchildren.

A rosary will be recited at 7:30 PM Thursday, Oct. 23, 2008 at Taylor Bros. Funeral Home. Mass will be 2:00 PM Friday, Oct. 24, 2008 at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church with Rev. Gerry Cernoch officiating. Interment will follow at Roselawn Memorial Park. Pallbearers will be: Frankie Rodriguez, Jeremy Rodriguez, Robert Huerta, Christopher Rodriguez, Gregory Wayne Garza, & Cody Garza. Honorary pallbearers will be: Alex Cantu, Fred Cantu, Jr., Gary Plummer, Louis Huerta, III, Bobby De La Rosa & Edward Cortez.

www.taylorbros.net               Photo courtesy of Faye Cunningham

Elida Rivas Garza
(February 27, 1935 - July 22, 2007)

Elida Rivas Garza, 72, of Van Vleck passed away July 22, 2007. She was born February 27, 1935 in Edinburg, Texas to Dario Ruben Rivas and Catalina Blanco Rivas. She graduated from Mission High School in 1954 and attended Pan American University for three years to study Social Work. She moved to Van Vleck with her husband and their first two children in 1962. She worked for the Red Cross from 1979-1998; volunteered for the Economic Action Committee from 1977-1979; she volunteered for Van Vleck FFA Chapter from 1980-2000; was very active in all Van Vleck school committees; former 4-H leader; member of Van Vleck Volunteer Fire Department; volunteer EMT; volunteer for Bay City Annual Food Drive; a CCD teacher and choir member at church; and has three generations of Girl Scouts in her family because of her 15 year involvement and leadership with Girl Scouts.

Survivors include her father Dario Ruben Rivas of Mission, TX; husband Juan V. Garza of Van Vleck; daughters and sons-in-law Catalina G. & James P. Silva of Conroe, Cynthia G. & Juan A. Delgado of Wharton, Corina G. & Michael D. Weaver of Hobbs, New Mexico, Celeste G. & Juan Cortez II of Van Vleck, Christella G. & Jesse Rodriguez of Wadsworth, Carolina G. & Raymond Trevino, Jr., Carmen G. & Adrian Escobedo of Van Vleck and Eva Rivera of Uvalde; sisters Rebecca Vincent of California and Lucilla Martinez & Ratalia Rodriguez both of Mission; brothers Dario Rivas, Jose Rivas, Ruben Rivas, & Roberto Rivas all of Mission; sixteen grandchildren and three step-grandchildren.

A rosary will be recited at 7:00 PM Tuesday, July 24, 2007 at Taylor Bros. Funeral Home. Mass will be 2:00 PM Wednesday, July 25, 2007 at Holy Cross Catholic Church with Rev. Casey Jarzombek officiating. Interment will follow at Roselawn Memorial Park. Pallbearers will be Michael Weaver, Jesse Rodriguez, Adrian Escobedo, Juan A. Delgado, Raymond Trevino, Jr., John Anthony Rodriguez, Brian Vega and Johnathan Rivera. Honorary pallbearers include her brothers and James P. Silva. Arrangements with Taylor Bros. Funeral Home in Bay City. 979-245-4613.

www.taylorbros.net

Ev Marie Louisia Garza
(June 27, 2006 - July 9, 2006)

Ev Marie Louisa Garza, infant daughter of Joe Santos Garza, Sr. & Rebecca Guerra Garza, died July 9, 2006 at Texas Children’s Hospital in Houston. She was born June 27, 2006 in Houston.

Survivors include her parents; paternal grandparents Joe John Garza and Maggie Segovia of Angleton; maternal grandparents Mary Lou and Rick Hampson of Bay City and Paul and Sandy Guerra of West Columbia; great grandmothers Emma Rodriguez of Victoria and Genoveva Garza of Bay City; and brother Richard Vega of Bay City.

Graveside service will be 4:00 PM Wednesday, July 12, 2006 at Cedarvale Cemetery in Bay City with Hill Winfrey officiating. Arrangements with Taylor Bros. Funeral Home in Bay City.

www.taylorbros.net
 

Francisco Garza, Jr.

Francisco Garza, Jr., 63, went to be with our Lord Wednesday, October 27, 2010.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Maria and Francisco Garza, Sr.

He is survived by his loving wife of 37 years, Beatrice R. Garza; children, Francisco Garza, III, Gabriela Chavez, Naomi Garza and husband Gordon F. Conover; grandchildren, Ariel S. Chavez, Francisco Garza IV, Alexis B. Garza, Avery M. Garza, Gabriel N. Garza, Kaitlyn B. Conover, and Peyton W. Conover. Also survived by brothers and sisters, Teresita and Buddy Gallegos of Bay City, Texas, Alfredo and Diane Garza of Panama City, Florida, Elida and Tom Thomsen of The Dalles, Oregon, Elda Garcia of Houston, Texas, Sylvia and Delfino Ochoa of Corpus Christi, Texas, and Jerry and Joan Garza of Lumberton, Texas.

Mr. Garza was proud to serve eight years of enlistment in the United States Army.

Funeral service was Saturday, October 30, 2010, at Our Lady of Fatima Church in Galena Park, Texas. Interment followed at San Jacinto Memorial Park.

San Jacinto Memorial Park Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.

Bay City Tribune, Tuesday, November 2, 2010
 

GENOVEVA "BEVA" GARZA

BAY CITY - Genoveva "Beva" Garza, 74, of Bay City, died Dec. 10, 2010. She was born Oct. 12, 1936, in Buckeye.

A prayer service will be at 7 p.m., Sunday, Dec. 12, 2010, at Taylor Bros. Funeral Home. Funeral service will be at 2 p.m., Monday, Dec. 13, 2010, at Taylor Bros. Funeral Home with the Rev. Gordon Winfrey officiating. Interment will follow at Cedarvale Cemetery.

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

Arrangements are with Taylor Bros. Funeral Home in Bay City, 979-245-4613.

Published in Victoria Advocate on December 12, 2010                Photo courtesy of Betty Crosby

Jacinto Garza, Jr.
(August 10, 1931 - April 17, 2008)

Jacinto Garza, Jr., 76, of Freeport, TX, passed away Thursday, April 17, 2008. He was born August 10, 1931 in Louise, TX to Josefa Jasso Garza and Jacinto Garza, Sr. He was a resident of Freeport for the past 40 years, a former member of the National Guard, a former long time resident of Palacios and a member of 1st Missionary Baptist Church of Freeport.

He is survived by his daughter: Deborah Castillo of Bay City; his son: David Rene Garza, Sr. of Houston; two sisters: Mary Guajardo of Texas City and Lillie Perez of El Campo; by seven grandchildren and one great grandchild. He was preceded in death by his parents, by two sons: Ruben and Kenneth Vaness; a sister: Feliciana Llanes; and his brother: Raynaldo J. Garza.

A Prayer Service will be held at 7:00 PM Monday, April 21, 2008 at Palacios Funeral Home. Funeral services will be held at 10:00 AM Tuesday, April 22, 2008 at the Palacios Funeral Home Chapel. Interment will follow at the Palacios Cemetery. Pallbearers will be Rudy M. Castillo, David R. Garza, Jr., Damien G. Garza, Darren W. Garza, David R. Garza, Sr. and Manuel DeLaGarza.

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

Arrangements with Palacios Funeral Home, Palacios, TX (361) 972-2012.

www.taylorbros.net
 

Leonides Leon Garza, 50, of Bay City passed away Monday, December 8, 2008.

He was born February 4, 1958 in Bay City to the late Macaria Lopez Garza and Rudy Garza. Leon was a life long resident of Bay City, and a Member of the Rose of Sharon Pentecostal Church.

He is survived by: his wife, Virginia Zboral Garza of Bay City; three sons, David, Leon, and Rudy Garza all of Bay City; four sisters, Irma Garcia and Diana Gonzalez both of Markham, Jo Ann Perez of Bay City, and Corina Ruiz of Georgia; two brothers, Lionel and Steve Garza both of Markham; and one grandchild.

Leon was preceded in death by his parents, and brother Jesse Lopez.

A Prayer Service will be held 7 p.m. Thursday, December 11, 2008 at Taylor Bros. Funeral Home. A Funeral Service will be held 10 a.m. Friday, December 12, 2008 at the Rose of Sharon Pentecostal Church with Sister Janie Robles officiating.

Interment will follow at Cedarvale Cemetery.

Pallbearers will be Nativadid Estrada, John Garcia, Jesse Saldana, Martin Huerta, and Smiley Huerta.

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

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

Bay City Tribune, Published December 10, 2008                                                    Photo courtesy of Faye Cunningham

Reynaldo M. Garza
(September 11, 1937 - November 15, 2006)

Reynaldo M. Garza, 69 of Bay City died Wednesday, November 15, 2006 in Houston, Texas. He was born September 11, 1937 in Mission, Texas to the late Leonides Garza and Sofia Mercado. He is survived by daughters, Gloria Zamora of Van Vleck, Lorraine Schroeder of SC, Emma Garza of Bay City. Sons, Ray Moreles of Bay City, Gilbert Garza, Sr. of Bay City. Sisters, Silva Garza of Bay City, Linda Garza of Houston, Olga Garza of OH. Brothers, Leon Garza of Bay City, and Ramiro Garza of Bay City. 19 grandchildren and a number of great grandchildren. He is preceded in death by his parents, one son, Daniel Garza, brothers, Rudy Garza, Raul M. Garza, Raul Garza, Emilo Garza. Services will be held at 6:00 PM Saturday, Nov. 18, 2006 at Taylor Bros. Funeral Home. The family will receive visitors from 6Pm to 8 Pm Friday, November 17, 2006 at Taylor Bros. Funeral Home. Arrangements by Taylor Bros. Funeral Home, (979)245-4613

www.taylorbros.net
 

Lydia K. Gates

Lydia Kopecky Gates, 88 of Bay City died November 13, 2003 in Bay City.

She was born November 5, 1915 in Galveston, Texas to the late Vladislav L. Kopecky and Louise Vavrecka.

She is survived by her husband; John C. Gates of Sugar Land, Tx. daughter; Rebecca Beard of Blessing, sister; Ollie Nedbalek of Houston, grandchildren; Iona Kay Wilder Calhoun and John C. Beard both of Blessing.

Lydia was known for her paintings. She was a former student of Simon Michael of Rockport. These beautiful items of originality & beauty can be found in several businesses, doctor's offices, several homes, and various local places in Bay City. She was the former owner of the Yellow Cab Co., and was the first woman cab driver and cab business owner in Bay City. She taught Sunday School at Calvary Baptist Church and organized the Cradle Roll Department which gave enrollment certificates to all newborn babies and roses to their mothers. She also drove a transit bus system for school children which gave her the opportunity to witness to the children.

She was in the following organizations Prep & Eva Graham Senior Center, Art Guild, Gyro Club at Calvary Baptist Church, Volunteer at Bay Villa, Seabreeze and Legacy Nursing Homes, and member of the Golden Ave Baptist Church.

She was born in Galveston and the family moved to what is now known as El Maton. She worked in the El Maton post office and store with her mother Louise. The town of El Maton was originally called Kopecky Town, because her family and descendants all owned land there. She was a fine God loving Christian. Her life was devoted to Christ and giving of her self to others. She always had a smile on her face, a gift in her hand and a word of encouragement. She will be missed by all her family and friends.

The family will receive visitors at Taylor Bros. Funeral Home from 6:00 P.M. to 8:00 P.M. Monday. Graveside service will be held at 10:00 A.M. Tuesday at Hawley Cemetery [Matagorda County, Texas].

Arrangements by Taylor Bros. Funeral Home (979) 245-4613.

The Victoria Advocate, November 16, 2003

HERMAN GATICA SR.

PALACIOS - Herman Gatica Sr., 87, of Palacios, passed away Dec. 10, 2009. He was born May 3, 1922 to the late Antonio and Simona Camacho Gatica. He was a member of St. Anthony's Catholic Church and served his country in the U.S. Army during WWII.

He is survived by his wife, Victoria Chavez Gatica of Palacios; his son, Herman Gatica Jr. of Palacios; his sister, Dominga Solis of Palacios; his brother, Leon Gatica of Palacios; his grandchildren, Norma Nixon, Jeffery Gatica, and Herman Gatica III; 11 great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews.
His sisters, Bessie Diaz and Pola Rivas, and brothers, Monico, Maximo, Frank and Lino Gatica, all preceded him in death.

A rosary will be recited at 7:30 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 13, 2009 at the Palacios Funeral Home. Mass will be 10 a.m. Monday, Dec. 14, 2009 at St. Anthony's Catholic Church with Rev. Charles Domowoh officiating. Interment will follow at the Palacios Cemetery.

Pallbearers will be Herman Gatica III, Jeffery Gatica, Ramiro Arroyo Jr., Jack Gillett Jr., Andrew Garcia Jr., and Gabriel Lopez.

Arrangements are with Palacios Funeral Home. 361-972-2012.

Published in Victoria Advocate on December 13, 2009
 

LEON C. GATICA

PALACIOS - Leon C. Gatica, 92, of Palacios, went to be with the Lord on Thursday, Sept. 16, 2010.

Visitation will start at 5 p.m., Monday, Sept. 20, 2010, at the Palacios Funeral Home. The holy rosary will be recited at 7 p.m., Monday, Sept. 20, 2010, at the funeral home. The Mass will be held at 10 a.m., Tuesday, Sept. 21, 2010, at St. Anthony's Catholic Church. Interment will follow at Palacios Cemetery with military honors.

Pallbearers will be Mike, Robert, and Marcus Gatica, Daniel Herrera, Daniel Rivas, and Randy Diaz.

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

Arrangements are with the Palacios Funeral Home, 361-972-2012.

Published in Victoria Advocate on September 19, 2010
 

Albina “Bennie” Gauthier passed away June 6, 2011 at the age of 88. She was born April 16, 1923 in El Campo, TX and was one of 10 children born to Ignac Senkyrik & Josephine Gahura Senkyrik.

She was preceded in death by her husband Marvin “Frenchy” Gauthier, son Michael Gauther, granddaughter Bethany Gauthier and grandson Kenneth Quinby. She is survived by daughters Jeanine Crow & husband Raymond of Selkirk Island, Renee Smith of San Marcos and Michelle Gauthier of Bayou Vista, TX; sons Marvin “Tony” Gauthier & wife Judy of Sugarland and Alan Gauthier of Houston; 6 grandchildren, 5 great grandchildren and numerous nieces & nephews. She is also survived by her sister Nancy Bane of Wimberley, TX.

www.taylorbros.net                       Photo courtesy of Faye Cunningham

Marvin S. Gauthier

 

Edwin Gay
(August 7, 1943 - September 21, 2007)

Edwin Gay, 64, of Bay City passed away September 21, 2007. He was born August 7, 1943 in Bay City to the late William Edwin Gay, Sr. and Ruby Leila Sanford Gay. He was an avid outdoorsman, family man and a business owner.

Survivors include daughters Amy Ging & husband Glenn of Bay City and Ellen Gay of Pearland; son Ed Gay III & wife Cheryl of Bay City; grandchildren Shawna & Brianna George of Pearland, Grant & Will Gay of Bay City and Megan & Aron Ging of Bay City; mother of his children Beverly Dagerath; sisters-in-law Janet Gay of Sweeny and Cookie Gay of Ft. Worth and a number of nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his brothers Billy, Joe and Claude Gay.

Funeral service will be 2:00 PM Tuesday, September 25, 2007 at the First United Methodist Church with Rev. Chris Harrison officiating. Interment will follow at Roselawn Memorial Park in Van Vleck. Pallbearers will be Steve Gasaway, James Craft, Erwin Ward, Don Bendy, Dave Garner and Terry Stockman. Memorials may be made to Outdoors Without Limits, PO Box 238, Markham, TX 77456.

www.taylorbros.net                        Photos courtesy of Faye Cunningham
 

DARIN DUANE GAYLOR

Darin Duane Gaylor, 45, of Odessa, a driver for Fedex, died Tuesday, March 8, 2011 in an auto accident. He was born March 22, 1965 in Odessa to LaNell Elkins.

He was a member of the Dodge Viper Club and had raced in several races in Ft. Stockton and several other places in the state. He loved his Viper and his Dodge Charger.

He was preceded in death by his grandfather, Rudolf J. Boehm, and three beloved pets, Ursa, Tia, & Vesta.

He is survived by his mother, LaNell Elkins, grandmother, Frieda Boehm, and five beloved pets, Sammy, Bandy, Boomer, Woody, & Chloe.

There will be visitation from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Friday, March 11, 2011 at Hubbard-Kelly Funeral Home.  Graveside services will be held at 10:00 a.m. Monday, March 14, 2011 at Hawley Cemetery near Blessing, TX.

Services entrusted to Hubbard-Kelly Funeral Home.

El Campo Leader-News, Saturday, March 12, 2011
 

Shirley M. Geer, 83, of Blessing, Texas, passed away peacefully September 3, 2010 at home surrounded by loving family.

She was born October 23, 1926 in Prattsburg, New York, the daughter of the late Clifton and Helen Northrop. She was the oldest of six siblings. On March 6, 1955, she married Carlton Geer.

She lived most of her life in the Naples, New York area. She worked at Widmer Wine Cellers, retiring after 40 years of service. She relocated to Blessing, Texas and worked for many years at Tonys Country Kitchen, where she served up not only good food, but sincere friendship to anyone who wanted it.

Shirley is remembered as a baker of fine cakes, pies and cookies. She was always baking a sweet treat to support a community raffle, cheer up an ailing friend, or to share with her family, friends and neighbors. She loved Alan Jackson and country music, Jeff Gordon and Nascar, Tiger Woods, The Atlanta Braves and the Houston Rockets.

She is survived by: her daughters and son-in-laws, Donna and Russell Bloom of Blessing; Colleen and Steve Labar of Blessing, Dawn and Dean Hare of Windsor, Vermont; grandchildren, Russell and Penny Bloom, Tina Bloom, Kathy Bloom, Carlette Thibeault, Bryan and Neil Hare; great grandchildren, Patricia Wheaton, Ashley Lee, Justin and Jason Bloom; great, great grandson Hunter Lee; sister, Eunice Stopka, plus many nieces, nephews and very special friends.

Shirley was preceded in death by her husband, Carlton; and all but one of her siblings.

A Memorial Service will be held at 4 p.m. Saturday, September 18, 2010 at Hawley Cemetery, Blessing, Texas.

There will be separate Memorial Service held in Naples, New York at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you make a donation to the National Kidney Foundation in her memory.

Bay City Tribune, Published September 8, 2010
 

Adolph Genzer

Funeral services for Adolph Genzer, 63, of Caldwell, Texas, will be held 2 p. m. Saturday at Taylor Brothers Funeral Home chapel with the Rev. Joe Ramsey officiating. Burial will be in Hawley Cemetery, Blessing.

Mr. Genzer was born May 29, 1924, in Ammansville, Burleson County, Texas, and died of cancer May 12, 1988, at Olin Teague V. A. Center, Temple, Texas.

A resident of Caldwell for 10 years, he was formerly of Markham. He was inducted into the U. S. Army March 11, 1943, and participated in the Invasion of Omaha Beach. He was a member of the Catholic church.

Survivors include his wife, Ann Genzer of Caldwell; two daughters, Barbara McVey of Madisonville, Texas, and Becky Weid of Van Vleck; two sons, Randy Genzer of Bellville and Donnie Genzer of Bay City; three sisters, Georgie Hahn of Utopia, Texas, Annie Mae Gates of Wadsworth and Bernice Brunner of Brazoria; a brother, Stanley Genzer of Markham; nine grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.

Arrangements are with Taylor Brothers Funeral Home, Bay City.

The Daily Tribune, May, 1988

Clarence Joe “C. J.” Genzer
Nov. 27, 1935 – Dec. 6, 2010

After a lengthy valiant fight, C .J. Genzer, 75, of Columbia Lakes, passed away at his home on December 6, 2010, with his wife holding his hand.                        

He, one of eleven children, was born on November 27, 1935, to George and Cecilie Genzer of El Maton, Texas.

C. J. is survived by: his wife, Judi; son and wife, Craig and Pam Genzer of Angleton, Texas; daughter and husband, Debra and Bobby Fielden of West Columbia, Texas; three granddaughters, Chelsea Fielden, Jennifer and Catilyn Genzer; best and long-time friend, Jim Henley of Angleton, Texas.            

C.J. was blessed with an extended family seven years ago, the Thrashers — Trent, Nicole, Tate, Grant and four month-old Kennedy. The children touched his life and his heart in many ways, and he took the love he had for them with him.

A memorial mass will be held at 10 am. Wednesday, December 15, at St. John’s Catholic Church in West Columbia.

His sister, Bertha, three years his elder, raised him from 1948 to 1955 in Bay City, Texas. While in Bay City he held various jobs; two paper routes and store clerk from 1948 to 1951. During the summers and weekends of 1951 through 1954, he worked as a roustabout for G. W. Townsend while attending high school.

He worked for Marathon Oil Company during the summers of 1955 to 1958 and earned enough money to attend Texas A&M University. He received a B.S. degree in petroleum engineering in 1959.

After graduation, he worked for Pan American Oil in Lake Charles, Louisiana and Marathon Oil in Robinson, Illinois. Returning to Texas in May of 1966, he went to work for the Dow Chemical Company. He retired from Dow after 33 years of service with the title of consultant, the highest classification in the technical field with Dow.

At Dow, he started out as a production engineer developing and mining salt water wells and storage caverns at Stratton Ridge. He was involved in the drilling of over 50 wells in the technology center for several years. The last five years he was a consultant and traveled to other Dow sites in Germany, South America, Canada and Los Angeles, California. He designed drilling and work over procedures and also well testing procedures.

After his retirement in 1996, he enjoyed playing golf and volunteering with his wife at the Varner-Hogg Plantation State Historical Park and being involved in an outreach program called “The Texas women and a Few Brave Men.” The couple also enjoyed vacationing in the Bahamas and Caribbean Islands and a trip to Switzerland.

Online condolences may be left at www.restwoodfuneralhome.com

Bay City Tribune, Sunday, December 12, 2010
 

Donald Ray "Donnie" Genzer

Donald Ray "Donnie" Genzer, 48 of Markham, Texas passed away Sunday, October 21, 2001. A lifelong resident of Matagorda County, he was born in Bay City on October 20, 1953 to Adolph and Ann Genzer.

Donnie graduated from Tidehaven High School in 1972 where he was an outstanding athlete in both football and track. He married Doris Zemanek in November 1972 and together they had three children. He was a loyal employee of Marathon Oil Company for 20 years. Donnie was a devoted husband and loving father. He enjoyed attending his children's sporting events, coaching and umpiring baseball, hunting, fishing and spending time with family and friends. He had a tremendous sense of humor and his laugh was full of life. He will be missed by his family and the many friends he had made during his short life.

Survivors include: his wife, Doris Zemanek Genzer; his three children, Christi Lyn Genzer of Markham, Stacy Genzer Eckman and husband Daniel of Corpus Christi, Brandon Ross Genzer of Sherman, Texas; and his mother, Ann Genzer of Bay City; sisters, Barbara and Ray McVey and Becky and Monty Wied; brother Randy Genzer; brother and sisters-in-law, Victor Joe and Ginger Zemanek, Jim Snyder, Mary Ann and Tom DeKunder, Robert and Joane Zemanek, John Henry and Tracy Zemanek, Jerry and Cindy Zemanek, Lillian and Dennis Chastain and Betty Jean and Darrell Crain; and 29 nieces and nephews.

Donnie was preceded in death by: Adolph Genzer, his father, Victor Zemanek, his father-in-law; and Jay Zemanek Snyder, his sister-in-law.

The family will receive visitors at Taylor Bros. Funeral Home from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Tuesday. Funeral services will be at Taylor Bros. Funeral Home on Wednesday, October 24 at 2 p.m. with Brother Joe Ramsey officaiting. Interment will follow at Hawley Cemetery.

Pallbearers include, Tom Hudgins, Victor Joe Zemanek, Robert Zemanek, Darrell Crain, John Henry Zemanek, Jerry Zemanek. Honorary pallbearers will be Brandon Ross Genzer, Daniel Eckman, Randy Genzer, Jim Snyder, Tom DeKunder, Dennis Chastian, Monty Wied, Ray McVey and Dave McVey.

Memorials may be made to Bay City Babe Ruth or the American Heart Association.

Arrangements are with Taylor Bros. Funeral Home. A00011A2001OT24

THE DAILY TRIBUNE, Wednesday, October 24, 2001
 

KYLE E. GERLA

VAN VLECK - Kyle E. Gerla of Van Vleck died March 26, 2010 at the age of 20. He was born in Bay City to Michael E. Gerla and Varena Cook Gerla. He was a college student at Wharton County Junior College and had a great love for archery.

He is survived by his mother, Varena Gerla of Taneyville, Mo.; sisters, Andrea M. Gerla of College Station and Laura R. Gerla of El Campo; paternal grandmother, Mary Ann Gerla of El Campo; paternal aunts, Joy Pressler and Jackie Wulf of Houston; and maternal uncles, Curtiss Cook and Stewart Cook of Taneyville, Mo.

He was preceded in death by his father; paternal grandfather, Charles Gerla; and maternal grandparents, Aleta and Floyd Cook.

Visitation will begin 5 p.m. today, with a rosary being recited at 7 p.m., at Triska Funeral Home. Funeral services will be 10 a.m. Wednesday, March 31, 2010, at Triska Funeral Home with Rev. Gary Janak officiating. Interment will follow at Holy Cross Memorial Park.

Arrangements are under the direction of Triska Funeral Home, El Campo, 979-543-3681.

Published in Victoria Advocate on March 30, 2010
 

Mrs. Clyde Gibbens' Condition "Slightly Improved"; Funeral Rites For  Mr. Gibbens Held Today

The condition of Mrs. Clyde Gibbens who was seriously injured early Saturday afternoon in an auto crash which resulted in the death of her 30-year-old husband, and 15-month-old Judy Ann Werla today is "slightly improved" according to attendants at Matagorda General Hospital. Mr. Gibbens a Bay City ex-serviceman died early Sunday morning from injuries received when he swerved his car across the highway and crashed into an irrigation culvert to avoid hitting an itinerate peddlar and his cart. After crashing into the culvert, the car plunged into the canal causing the death of the small child.

A hospital attendant reported that Mr. Gibbens suffered a broken left leg and chest injuries. Mrs. Gibbens also suffered chest injuries. Another occupant of the car, Mrs. John Werla suffered a pelvic injury.

Funeral services for Mr. Gibbens were held this afternoon from the Taylor Brothers Funeral Home with Rev. Horace Goodman officiating. Burial was in Hawley Cemetery. Rites for the infant daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Werla were held Sunday afternoon from Taylor Brothers with Rev. Goodman in charge. Burial was in Cedarvale.

Surviving Mr. Gibbens are his wife, Mrs. Joyce G. Gibbens of Bay City; his parents, Mr. and Mrs. B. D. Gibbens of Van Vleck; a daughter, Mary Lionel Gibbens; two sisters, Mrs. Gladys Hamilton of Bay City and Miss Marie Gibbens of Van Vleck; four brothers, Elbert, Donald and Trueworth Gibbens, all of Bay City, and Earl Gibbens of Van Vleck.

Surviving the Werla infant are parents, Mr. and Mrs. John Werla of Bay City, and three sisters, June Marie, Jo Ellen and Johnnie Sue Werla, all of Bay City.

THE DAILY TRIBUNE, Monday, December 2, 1946

Earl Gibbens
(January 26, 1914 - April 25, 2006)

Earl Gibbens, 92, of Sugar Valley passed away Tuesday, April 25, 2006 at his home. He was born January 26, 1914 in Bates, Arkansas to the late Bud and Casey Gibbens. Earl was a lifetime resident of Sugar Valley, a cattleman, and a child of God. He received the Outstanding Community Service Award from the Seabreeze Care Center in April of 2004, The Certificate of Service that God has called him into the Ministry in September of 1999, and The Volunteer of the Year from Bay Villa Healthcare Center in June of 1999. Earl’s greatest gift to mankind was his relentless passion for passing on the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

Survivors include his wife of 74 Years: Mary Burrows Gibbens; 3 daughters: Ann Blackmon, Jean Talafuse and Bonnie Heidrich & husband Buddy; 1 brother: Don Gibbens; 16 grandchildren: Kelly Blackmon Ross, Debbie Gibbens, Paula Blackmon, Ramona Gibbens, Shanda Heidrich Maxey, Stacia Heidrich Murry, Mary Blackmon Amick, Richard Gibbens, Jr., Glenda Backman, Darrel Heidrich, Connie Blackmon, Nora Talafuse, Sheryl Bell, Jackie Gibbens, Rocky Gibbens, and Vicky Talafuse; 34 great grandchildren and 8 great great grandchildren; also Rev. Donald & Sarah Reed son & daughter in Christ. In addition to his parents he was preceded in death by 2 sons: Richard and Jack William Gibbens; 1 granddaughter: Robin Gibbens; 2 sisters: Gladys Hamilton and Marlene Hazelwood; 3 brothers: Elbert, Clyde, and Truworth Gibbens.

The Family will receive visitors from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM Wednesday, April 26, 2006 at Taylor Bros. Funeral Home. A Funeral Service will be held 10:00 AM Thursday, April 27, 2006 at the Golden Avenue Baptist Church with Rev. Donald Reed officiating. Interment will follow at Roselawn Memorial Park in Van Vleck. Pallbearers will be Charles Reed, Louis Sloey, Curtis Dykes, Truett Farris, Art Martinez, and Doyle McGehee. Memorials may be made to the Open Door Ministries, P.O. Box 4259, Sargent, TX 77414, Hospice of El Campo, P.O. Box 1417, El Campo, TX 77437, or the youth Fund of Golden Ave. Baptist Church. Arrangements with Taylor Bros. Funeral Home 245-4613.

www.taylorbros.net               Photo courtesy of Faye Cunningham
 

Larry D. Gibbs
(November 16, 1959 - April 18, 2006)

Larry D. Gibbs, 46, of Bay City died April 18, 2006 at Matagorda General Hospital. Larry was born November 16, 1959 in Bay City, TX to Harrell Denson and Etta Jean Joines Gibbs. He was a member of the First Baptist Church and a life long resident of Bay City. Survivors include his mother: Etta Jean Gibbs; sister: Carol Sue Gibbs both of Bay City; aunt: Irene Hale of Castroville, TX; uncles: Kenneth R. Gibbs & wife Beth of Ingleside, TX, J. T. Joines & wife Juanita of Thompsons, TX, W. R. Joines & wife Albina of Francitas, and Morris Richardson of Houston. He was preceded in death by his father Harrell Gibbs. The family would like to thank the staff at Bay Villa Nursing Center for all of the kindness extended to Larry, also to Dr. Neret and Dr. Sacco for the wonderful care they gave to Larry. Funeral Service will be 1:00 PM Friday, April 21, 2006 at the First Baptist Church with Rev. Mike Zimmerman officiating. Interment will follow at Roselawn Memorial Park Cemetery in Van Vleck. Pallbearers will be Curtis Dykes, Clarence and Jimmy Joines, Kenneth A. Gibbs, John Hale, Bobby Bonorden, Duane Coulter and Rex Moore. Honorary Pallbearers will be Kenneth R. Gibbs, J. T. & W. R. Joines, Morris & Donald Richardson, & his train buddy Tommy Shults. The family will receive friends at Taylor Bros. Thursday evening from 5:00 to 7:00 PM. Memorials may be made to The First Baptist Church, Bereavement Fund, 2321 Ave F, Bay City, TX 77414. Arrangements with Taylor Bros. Funeral Home, Bay City (979)245-4613.

www.taylorbros.net
 

Arnold Weldon “Slow Water” Gibson

Funeral services for Arnold Weldon “Slow Water” Gibson were held at 2 p. m. Friday, June 7, at the Palacios Funeral Home with the Rev. J. R. Gwin officiating. Interment was in Hawley Cemetery.

Son of C. R. and Molly Phillips Gibson, he was born February 10, 1918 in Rowlett, Texas. He had been a resident of Palacios since 1928, was a member of the Baptist Church and a veteran of World War II, U. S. Army. He passed away Wednesday, June 5, in the V. A. Hospital in Houston.

Survivors include his wife, La Noe Gibson; two daughters, Bettie Valerga of Pleasanton, California and Vivian Harrell of Euless, Texas; two sons. James and Charles Gibson of Palacios; five sisters, Lillian Sewell of Palacios, Vivian Collins of Quanah, Texas, Sadie Howell of Granbury, Velma Jones and Mary Bierbaum of Houston; two brothers, Vernon and Charles Gibson of Palacios and seven grandchildren.

The Daily Tribune, June, 1974
 

William Gibbson
Hawley Cemetery, Blessing


 

Funeral services for Margaret Giles, 85, of Van Vleck, will be held at 11 a.m. Friday, April 16, 2010 at St. John Baptist Church, Van Vleck, with the Pastor Ruben Newell, eulogist. Burial will be at Pine Grove Cemetery, Nacogdoches, Texas.

Visitation will be from 2 until 8 p.m. at the funeral home chapel.

She was born in Nacogdoches, Texas, January 10, 1925, to Briscoe Burnim and Gatha Sanders Burnim, and passed away April 11, 2010, in Houston, Texas.

Mrs. Giles was retired educator whose professional career in teaching span many years with the Van Vleck Independent School District.

Survivors include: a daughter, LaTrelle Giles of Houston; three sisters, Nadine Fly and Elnora Huntly, both of San Antonio, and Louise Caver of Bay City; and one brother, Arzo Burnim (and Ruby) of Cedar Hill. Also a sister-in-law, Lettie Burnim of San Antonio. Also a host of other relatives and friends.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in her name to the Foundation for Sarcoidosis Research (FSR), 122 South Michigan Avenue #1700, Chicago, IL 60603.

Arrangements with Duncan-Roberts Funeral Home, Bay City, Texas (979) 245-5197.

Bay City Tribune, Published April 14, 2010
 

Billie Jo Gillett
(March 3, 1938 - July 3, 2007)

Billie Jo Gillett, 69, of Smiley, TX died July 3, 2007. She was born March 3, 1938 in Bay City, TX to the late Claude P. Fondon, Sr. and Lonnie Rutherford Fondon. She resided in Bay City for over 60 years, was a member of the Rebekah Lodge and very active in helping young people with FFA and 4-H.

Survivors include sons Dennis Gillett of Senora, TX and Perry Gillett of Sealy; sisters Pat Davis and Gayle Polachek both of Smiley, TX; twelve grandchildren and six great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by brother Claude Fondon, Jr. and grandson Blaine Gillett.

Graveside service will be 2:00 PM Friday, July 6, 2007 at the Midfield Cemetery with Leon Davis officiating. Pallbearers will be Marshall Davis, Howard Davis, Joseph Hecox, Jr., Freddie Greer, Kenneth Henderson and Tommy Henderson. The family will receive friends and relatives from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM Thursday at the funeral home. Online condolences may be sent by visiting www.taylorbros.net. Arrangements with Taylor Bros. Funeral Home in Bay City. 979-245-4613.

www.taylorbros.net
 

Lannie Ray Gillette
(September 5, 1937 - August 17, 2007)

GLORIA NANNETTE GILROY

WILSON, Okla. - Gloria Nannette Gilroy, a longtime resident of the Wilson area, died Monday, February 8, 2010 in Okmulgee, Okla. at the age of 74. She was born March 10, 1935 in Palacios, Texas to Ellis Jensen and Ethel (Harbison) Jensen.

She was a member of the Wilson Baptist Church.
 

She was preceded in death by her parents, Ellis and Ethel Jensen; two brothers, Bernard Jenson and Ellis Jensen Jr.; by one sister, Lida Tanton; and by her husband, Harvey Gilroy Sr.
 
She is survived by: four children, Brenda Buckley of Huntington Beach, Cali., Shane Doyle of Calif., Sarah Mayfield and husband Ronnie of Victoria, and Mindy Hogan of Morris, Okla.; three step-children, Harvey Gilroy Jr. of Okmulgee, Okla., Jody Gilroy and wife Lisa of Morris, Okla., and Mike Gilroy Sr. and wife Deanna of Henryetta, Okla.; 15 grandchildren, Brandon Barbee, Bobby Buckley Jr., Aubrey Buckley, Jamie Mayfield, Alan Mayfield, Shanna, Shane Jr. and Shannell Doyle, Paige Pense, Brooklyn Hogan, Mike Jr., Cody, Colby, Trevor and Kennedie Gilroy; seven great-grandchildren; two sisters, Evelyn Loggins of Temple and Leona Alzner of Marble Falls; as well as a host of other relatives and friends.
 

Pallbearers will be Alan Mayfield, Shane Doyle Jr., Michael Gilroy Jr., Trevor Gilroy, Brandon Barbee, and Sidney Pillie.
 

Honorary pallbearers Fred Adams, Mike Gilroy, Jody Gilroy, and Pete Hogan.
 

Funeral services are scheduled for 2 p.m., Friday, Feb. 12, 2010 at the Wilson Baptist Church in Wilson, Okla. Interment will be in Salt Creek Cemetery in Wilson under direction of Integrity Funeral Service.
 

Integrity Funeral Service, Henryetta, Okla., 918-652-6600.

Published in Victoria Advocate on February 11, 2010

HARRIS O'NEAL GINGLES

BAY CITY - Harris O'Neal Gingles, 82, of Bay City, passed away Feb. 21, 2010. He was born June 2, 1927, in Ida, La., to the late Harvey Samuel and Ella Mae Daniels Gingles. He served his country in the U.S. Navy during WWII.

Survivors include his wife, Marie Stelly Gingles of Bay City; sons and their wives, Harris Gingles Jr. and Rose Ann of Ranger, and David Gingles and Sharon of El Campo; sisters, Joyce Gingles and Sabra Bayless of Shreveport, La.; brothers, George Gingles of Shreveport, La., and Billy Gingles of Logansport, La.; grandchildren, Joni, Nathan, Jason, Craig, and Brian Gingles.

The family will receive friends and relatives from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., Tuesday, at the funeral home. Funeral service will be at 2 p.m., Tuesday, Feb. 23, 2010, at Taylor Bros. Funeral Home with the Rev. Lee Watson officiating. Interment will follow at Cedarvale Cemetery.

His four grandsons, D. L. Layton and Willie Denbow will serve as pallbearers.

Memorials may be made to Houston Hospice of El Campo, 1102 N. Mechanic, El Campo, Texas 77437.Arrangements are with Taylor Bros.

Funeral Home in Bay City, 979-245-4613.

Published in Victoria Advocate on February 23, 2010
 

Funeral services Rose Marie Sneed Gipson Sneed 68, of Bay City will be Saturday, March 13, 2010 at 2:00 a.m. at Nichols Street Church of Christ in Bay City with Bro. Elliott Moore, officiating.

Burial will follow immediately after service at Eastview Cemetery.

Viewing will be from 4 until 8 p.m. Friday, March 12, 2010 in the chapel of Green's Mortuary.

Final arrangements are entrusted to Green's Mortuary (979) 245-3489

Bay City Tribune, Published March 15, 2010
 

RAY ELIZABETH GIRARD

PORT O'CONNOR - Ray Elizabeth Girard, 85, of Port O'Connor passed away Feb. 24, 2010. She was born June 2, 1924 in Palacios to the late Howard and Nancy Dunbar Stapp.

She is survived by her husband, Adelard "Dell" Girard; daughters, Betty Causey and Mary Hawes; six grandchildren; and nine great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents; son, Rene "Joe" Girard; and siblings, Louise Sharp, Julia Paulson, Howard, William and James Stapp.

Graveside services will be held Monday, March 1, 2010 at 2 p.m. at Port O'Connor Cemetery, Rev. Erny McDonough officiating.

Memorials may be made to the Port O'Connor Fire Dept.

Richardson-Colonial Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements, 361-552-2988.

Published in Victoria Advocate on February 28, 2010
 

WILLIAM JOSEPH GIRTEN

PALACIOS - Billy Girten, 50, passed away Monday, July 12th, 2010, surrounded by his family. He was born in Illinois. He was a graduate of Calhoun High School. After graduation, he joined the U.S. Marines, where he served his country proudly. He loved his family and was an avid fisherman. He was self-employed.

He is survived by his wife, Lorrie Girten of Palacios; mother and father, Marty and Johnny Young of Meyersville; sister and brother, Saundra Young and Chance Young of Meyersville; sons, Johnny Lee and Billy Joe; daughters, Bridgett, Elize, Erica, Bobby Jo, Emily and Tracy; and numerous grandchildren, nieces, and nephews.

Private family services will be held later this week.

Published in Victoria Advocate on July 15, 2010
 

Max Stewart Gist
(June 6, 1931 - January 4, 2008)

Max Stewart Gist, 76, of Bay City, passed away January 4, 2008, at Matagorda General Hospital following a brief illness. He was born June 6, 1931 in California, Missouri to the late Howard E. and Mary Elizabeth Robertson Gist and attended school in Knob Noster, Missouri, graduating in 1949.

Max joined the U.S. Army in 1952, serving with the 33rd Field Artillery, stationed at Kelly Barracks in Bamberg, Germany. While there, Max met and married the love of his life, Magdalena “Leni” Schmitt, and they returned to the states, in 1955. Leni preceded Max in death.

Max was a resident of Bay City since 1956, and worked for Phillips Petroleum from 1955 until his retirement in 1976 when he went to work at Bay Equipment Company here in Bay City. Together, Max and Leni co-owned Bay Equipment Company, and Max served as President of the company and Manager of the Parts Department until his retirement in 1995.

Max was a lifetime member of the Matagorda County Birding Nature Center and was also a lifetime member of the Friends of the Library in Bay City. Max loved sports and was active for many years in Bay City youth programs and coached Little League Baseball, and later coached Pony League Baseball. He was a member and one-time President of the Bay City Gun Club. This past year, Max celebrated his 40th year as a mason and was a member of Lodge AF and AM 865.

He is survived by his daughter, Otti Gist Davis & husband Thomas of Wimberley, TX and his grandson, Stuart M. Davis & wife Jennie of Ann Arbor, Michigan.

The family will receive friends from 6 PM to 8 PM Tuesday, January 8th, at Taylor Bros. Funeral Home. Graveside funeral service will be held at 4:00 PM Wednesday, January 9, 2008, at Memorial Park in Van Vleck with Rev. Tom Morgan officiating.

In lieu of flowers, the family request that memorials be made to the Matagorda County Birding Nature Center, PO Box 2212, Bay City, TX 77404-2212.

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

Arrangements are with Taylor Bros. Funeral Home, Bay City, TX (979) 245-4613.

www.taylorbros.net             Photo courtesy of Faye Cunningham
 

E. R. Glenn

Funeral services will be held for E. R. Glenn, 74, of Bay City, 10 a. m. Tuesday at Bay City Funeral Home Chapel.

Officiating at the services will be the Rev. John Jolley of the First Christian Church.

Glenn died May 6, 1982 at Matagorda General Hospital.

Survivors include; wife, Mrs. E. R. Glenn of Bay City; son, Raymond Glenn of Bay City; daughters, Bettye Jo White of Port Lavaca and Elizabeth Ann Bissett of Houston; brother, Charlie Glenn of Bendon?, Oregon; sisters, Mrs. Pearl Smith of Eastland and Mrs. Annie Macon of El Campo; 13 grandchildren and 8 great-grandchildren.

Glenn was a plumber in Bay City for many years.

Burial will follow services at Hawley Cemetery.

Pallbearers include Bob Bell, Bill Bell, Don Bell, Edward Reynal, Jim Pohlmeyer and Troy Green.

Memorials may be made to the Cancer Society or to the organization of your choice.

Services under the direction of Dick R. Elkins Bay City Funeral Home.

The Daily Tribune, May, 1982
 

John Darrell Glenn

PALACIOS - John Darrell Glenn, 81, passed away Sept. 29, 2010 at Citizens Hospital in Victoria. He was born Sept. 29, 1929 in Mabank to the late John T. Glenn and Aleta Charity Dickson. He moved to Palacios when he was three and lived there the rest of his life. In 1949 he went to work for Alcoa at Point Comfort and in 1951 was drafted into the Army. In 1953 he returned to Alcoa and worked there 42 years until his retirement in 1994. While in the Army he served in Korea with the 2nd Division Combat Engineers. In 1954 he met and married Marian Joanne Davis and they celebrated their 56th anniversary on June 28, 2010.

Survivors include his wife and sons, John Darrell Glenn Jr., Robert A. Glenn, and Larry E. Glenn; his daughters-in-law, Rhonda and Sandra Glenn; grandchildren, Michael Glenn (Patricia), Rachel Barker (Michael), Sarah Dyer (Jeremy), Lorisa Saavedra (Freddy), John R. Glenn, Rocky Yackel (Miranda), and Melissa Holesovsky (B.J.); and 11 great-grandchildren. Also, brothers-in-law, Oliver Davis (Tula), Edward Davis (Karla); numerous nephews and their families; best friend, Royce Harvey (Janice); and many cousins.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sister, Lavern Dearen; mother-in-law, Alva Davis; father-in-law, Oliver Davis; and numerous "buddies" of 42 years at Alcoa.

Services will be held Saturday, Oct. 2, 2010 at 10 a.m. at the Palacios Funeral Home with Rev. Hollis Hoffman officiating. Interment will follow at the Hawley Cemetery.

Visitation will be from 6-8 p.m. today at the funeral home.

Pallbearers will be grandsons and all the other grandchildren will be honorary pallbearers.

Palacios Funeral Home, Palacios, 361-972-2012.

Published in Victoria Advocate on October 1, 2010
 

Ruby Green Glenn

Funeral services for Ruby Green Glenn, 72, of Bay City were planned for 2 p. m. Monday at Bay City Funeral Home Chapel, the Rev. John Jolley of First Christian Church presiding, with interment in Hawley Cemetery.

Mrs. Glenn, born June 7, 1911, in Stockdale, Texas, died Dec. 23, 1983, at Matagorda General Hospital. She was preceded in death by her husband, Mr. E. R. Glenn, in 1962.

Mrs. Glenn was a member of the First Christian Church.

The Daily Tribune, December, 1983
 

Midfield

W. H. Glenn passed away Sunday night, after suffering for several years of tuberculosis and Bright's disease. His remains were laid to rest at the Hawley cemetery. Deceased was about 45 years of age. He leaves a widow who has the sincere sympathy of the entire community.

THE MATAGORDA COUNTY TRIBUNE, September 2, 1910

W. H. Glenn Dead.

Blessing News.

After suffering for the past several years with tuberculosis and Bright's disease, W. H. Glenn passed peacefully away Sunday night at about 8 o'clock at his home west of Blessing. His remains were taken in charge by the Masonic fraternity and given a very impressive burial in the Hawley Cemetery Monday afternoon, the same being conducted by J. R. Rowles and C. E. Duller.

The deceased was about 45 years of age and was an excellent husband and a splendid citizen. During his long illness he never complained but bore his sufferings with christian fortitude.

He was one among the first settlers of this country, and leaves a widow and relatives in Oklahoma who have the sincere sympathy of the entire community.

THE MATAGORDA COUNTY TRIBUNE, September 16, 1910
 

Martha Thomas Godfrey

Funeral services for Martha Thomas Godfrey, 69, of Bay City will be held 2 p.m. Saturday at St. Mark’s Missionary Baptist Church in Cedar Lane with the Rev. M. L. Fields officiating. Burial will be at St. Mark’s Cemetery. Visitation will be until 9 p.m. today at Duncan-Roberts Funeral Home chapel. The body will lie in state at the church 1 to 2 p.m. Saturday.

Mrs. Godfrey was born Oct. 10, 1922 in Cedar Lane to Gracie Grice and Henry Thomas Sr. and died July 14, 1992 at Matagorda General Hospital.

She was a member of the Baptist church and a resident of the Cedar Lane Community. She was a former resident of Chicago.

Survivors include two sisters, Everlina Holmes and Luberta Thomas of Cedar Lake; three brothers, Ezekiel O’Neal of Bay City and Samual and Charles Thomas of Cedar Lane and a number of nieces and nephews.

Pallbearers will be Clarence Holmes Jr., Elroy Griggs, James Thomas, Robert Smith, Sylvester Simple and John Henry O’Neal. Honorary pallbearers will be the deacons of St. Marks Missionary Baptist Church.

Arrangements are with Duncan-Roberts Funeral Home in Bay City

The Daily Tribune, July 1922
 

Tom A. Godsey
(December 10, 1934 - April 5, 2006)

Tom A. Godsey, 71, of Bay City died April 5, 2006 at his residence. He was born December 10, 1934 in Belton, TX to the late Ethridge Ezell and Roxie Love Mobely Godsey. Mr. Godsey was a resident of Bay City since 1977 and a former resident of Bryan, TX, and was a member of the Baptist Church. In 1995 he retired from H L & P as a Nuclear Engineer. He also served in the U S Navy from 1956 to 1964.

Survivors include his wife Nancy Elizabeth Evans Godsey of Bay City; daughters and sons-in-law: Nancy Elaine & Richard Franze of Cypress, TX, Sandra Dell & John Hill of Bay City, and Laura Sue & Don Merta of Richmond, TX; sons and a daughter-in-law: Tom A. Godsey, Jr of Houston and Lawrence Edward & Cynthia Godsey of Round Rock, TX; sisters: & brothers-in-law: Roxie Ann & Richard Long of Houston, Betty Hearne of Rockport, TX and Nelda Mensey of Corpus Christi, TX brothers & sisters-in-law: B. J. & Carlene Godsey of Corpus Christi, TX , Dick & Candy Godsey of Mission, TX, and Marlene Godsey of Victoria, TX 6 grandchildren: Rodney Earles & wife Rosa of Bryan, Ryan Smith and Renee Earles both of Bay City, Caitlyn, Holly, & Julie Merta all of Richmond, TX; 4 great grandchildren: Lizi, Draven, & Emyli Earles all of Bryan and Shelbie Smith of Bay City; and numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his brothers: Harry and E. E. Godsey, Jr.

Funeral Service will be 10:00 AM Saturday, April 8, 2006 at Taylor Bros. Funeral Home with Rev. Mike Zimmerman officiating. Interment will follow at Hawley Cemetery with military honors provided by Philip H. Parker VFW Post 2438. Arrangements with Taylor Bros. Funeral Home, Bay City (979) 245-4613.

www.taylorbros.net
 

Charles “Charlie” L. Gola, 77, of Bay City, passed away Tuesday, December 04, 2007. He was born April 4, 1930 in Bay City to Louis Gola and Louise Anna Foerster Gola. He was a life long resident of Bay City, a retired Paint Contractor and Owned the Color Mart store.

Antonio "Tony" Gonzales
(May 14, 1925 - July 30, 2009)

Antonio “Tony” Gonzalez, Jr., 84, of Palacios, TX, passed away Thursday, July 30, 2009. He was born May 14, 1925 in Palacios, TX to Antonio Gonzales, Sr. and Natalia Gomez Gonzales. He was a lifelong resident of Palacios and was a retired Produce Manager from Wilson’s Grocery in Palacios. He was active in the Senior Citizens Center of Palacios, directed entertainment at the Palacios Pavilion, and was very active in the Palacios community.

He was preceded in death by his parents: Natalia & Antonio Gonzales, Sr.; by his sisters: Felipa Sanchez, Marina Garcia and Natalia Gonzales; and by his brothers: Augustine Gonzales and Ralph Gonzales. He is survived by numerous nieces and nephews.

A Prayer Service will be held at 7:00 PM Friday, July 31, 2009 at the Palacios Funeral Home. Funeral services will be held at 3:00 PM Saturday, August 1, 2009 at the Palacios Funeral Home with Bro. Roosevelt Ellis officiating. Interment will be at the Palacios Cemetery. Pallbearers will be Andrew Sanchez, Sr., Andrew Sanchez, Jr., Jasper Garcia, Sr., Jasper Garcia, Jr., Darrell Buckley and Raymond De La Rosa.

Words of comfort may be shared with the family at www.taylorbros.net.

Arrangements are with Palacios Funeral Home, Palacios, TX (361) 972-2012

www.taylorbros.net
 

Christopher Gonzales
(December 31, 1988 - November 28, 2007)

Christopher Gonzales, 18, of Blessing passed away November 28, 2007. He was born December 31, 1988 in Bay City, TX to Irene Bernal and Francisco Gonzales, Jr.

Survivors include his Parents: Irene Bernal and Francisco Gonzales, Jr. of Blessing; 2 Brothers: Kevin Gonzales, Sr. and Francisco Gonzales III & wife Virginia all of Bay City; Grandfather: Guadalupe Bernal, Sr. of San Perlita, TX; Girlfriend: Victoria Davalos of Markham; Nephew: Kevin Gonzales, Jr. and Niece: Alizia Marie Gonzales both of Bay City; Aunts: Rosie Vera & husband Raul, Lydia Moran, Leonisa Garza, Licha Mesa, Fidela Wilkins, Luisa Gonzales & Catarina Conde; Uncles: Guadalupe Bernal Jr., Raul Bernal & wife Yolanda, Ruben Bernal & wife Marti, Pepe Garza, Juan Gonzales, Fernando Gonzales and Felipe Gonzales; and numerous Cousins.

A rosary will be recited at 7:30 PM Monday, Dec. 3, 2007 at Taylor Bros. Funeral Home. Mass will be 10:00 AM Tuesday, Dec. 4, 2007 at St. Peter’s Catholic Church in Blessing. Interment will follow at St. Peter’s Catholic Cemetery in Blessing. Pallbearers will be: Cody Mallette, Santaigo Saucedo, Jose Palomares, Daniel Perez, David Perez, and Justin Lara. Honorary Pallbearer will be Sean Carrillo.

Memorials may be made to the Christopher Gonzales Memorial Fund, c/o First State Bank in Blessing.

www.taylorbros.net
 

Guadalupe Gonzales
(September 21, 1959 - August 17, 2010)

Guadalupe Gonzales, 50, of Van Vleck passed away August 17, 2010. He was born Sept. 21, 1959 in Bay City, TX to Lorenzo Vega Gonzales & Mary Alameda Gonzales.

His brother Lorenzo Gonzales, Jr. preceded him in death. Survivors include his parents; daughters Valeri Gonzales, Dina Gonzales, Stephanie, Natashia and son Tommy; sisters Gloria Rodriguez & Lora G. Huerta; brother Domingo Gonzales; 3 grandchildren; 5 nieces; 9 nephews and a number of great nieces & nephews.

A rosary will be recited at 7:00 PM Friday, August 20, 2010 at Taylor Bros. Funeral Home. Mass will be 10:00 AM Saturday, August 21, 2010 at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church with Rev. Gerry Cernoch officiating. Interment will follow at Roselawn Memorial Park.

www.taylorbros.net
 

Joseph Robert Gonzales, 29, of Bay City passed away August 23, 2009.

He was born April 10, 1980 in Bay City to Jose Louis and Mary Esther Garcia Gonzales. He was a 1998 graduate of Bay City High School and worked at a roofing contractor.

His paternal grandparents Juan and Trinidad Gonzales preceded him in death.

Survivors include: his parents, Jose and Mary Gonzales of Bay City; maternal grandparents, Ruben and Christina Garcia of Bay City; sisters, Leticia Acosta and husband Armando of Pflugerville and Teresa Gonzales of Austin; brother, Gregory Gonzales of Bay City; God Child, Isabella Acosta and many aunts, uncles and cousins. The family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to his close friend Dawn Lamb for her support and care.

A rosary will be recited at 7 p.m. Wednesday, August 26, 2009 at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church.

Mass will be at 10 a.m. Thursday, August 27, 2009 at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church with the Rev. Gerry Cernoch officiating. Interment will follow at Cedarvale Cemetery in Bay City.

Pallbearers will be Larry Villa, Armando Acosta, Stephen Pena, Jason Zamora, Mike Zamora and Pablo Martinez.

Gregory Gonzales, Keith Morales, Sebastian Samora and Adan Hernandez will serve as honorary pallbearers.

Memorials may be made to M. D. Anderson Cancer Center; PO Box 4486; Houston, TX 77210-4486.

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

Arrangements are with Taylor Bros. Funeral Home in Bay City. 979-245-4613.

Bay City Tribune, Published August 26, 2009                  Photo courtesy of Betty Crosby

JULIA ANN GONZALES

YOAKUM - Julia Ann Partida Gonzales, age 83, passed away on Tuesday, June 29, 2010. She was born on Nov. 3, 1926 in Bay City to Gabriel B. and Josephine Perez Medina.

She was a nurse's aide at Yoakum Hospital, a homemaker, and a member of Austin Street Baptist Church.

Survivors: children, Paul Thomas of San Antonio, Carlos Partida of San Jose, Calif., Elifoncio Partida Jr. of Yoakum, Juanita Alonzo of Yoakum, Antonio Partida of Huntsville, Ala., Pedro Partida of El Paso, Eufemia Partida of Yoakum, Valentin Partida of Yoakum, Lawrence Partida of Yoakum, Florence McIntosh of Shiner, Ernest Partida of Gonzales, and Gabriel Partida of San Jose, Calif.; 27 grandchildren, 19 great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandchild; sisters, Sabina Melendez of Bay City and Mary Crawford of Markham; and brothers, Eusebio Medina of Houston, Pedro Medina of Long Beach, Calif., Benito Medina of Markham, and Jack Medina of Bay City.

Preceded in death by: husband, Joe Gonzales; sister, Minnie Zepeda; brothers, Gabriel Medina Jr. and Estanislada Medina; and a grandson, Joey Allen Dominguez.

Family visitation will be from 6 p.m. till 8 p.m. today at Thiele-Cooper Funeral Home.

The funeral service will be at 10 a.m. on Thursday at Austin Street Baptist Church with Pastor Mike Seay officiating. Burial will be at St. Joseph Catholic Cemetery.

The guest book may be signed at www.thielecooper.com.

Arrangements by Thiele-Cooper Funeral Home in Yoakum, 361-293-5656.

Published in Victoria Advocate on June 30, 2010
 

TERESA GONZALES

PALACIOS - Teresa Gonzales, 89, of Palacios, passed away Thursday, June 24, 2010. She was born March 22, 1921, in Mexico, to the late Reyes Garcia Sr. and Pilar Sanchez Garcia.

She was a homemaker and a Presbyterian.

She is survived by her daughters, Esther De La Rosa of Bay City, Elizabeth Sanchez and Emily Garcia, both of Palacios; son, Ernest Gonzales of Ducktown, Tenn.; 11 grandchildren; 27 great-grandchildren; two great-great-grandchildren; and wonderful friend and caregiver, Pila Pena.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Ralph Gonzales; sisters, Lydia Quintanilla, Vidala Soto, and Rosaura Flores; brothers, Reyes Garcia Jr., Alfredo Garcia, and Manuel Garcia; and granddaughter, Iris Renee Gonzales.

Visitation will be after 5 p.m. today, June 26, with a prayer service at 7 p.m., at First Presbyterian Church on the corner of 3rd St. and Morton in Palacios. Visitation will continue from 1-2 p.m. on Sunday, June 27, followed by the funeral service at 2 p.m., at First Presbyterian Church, with Pastor Andy Blair and Pastor Janell Blair officiating. Interment will be at Palacios Cemetery.

Pallbearers will be Andrew Sanchez Jr., Adrian Longoria, Marcus Sanchez, Jasper Garcia Jr., Jose Zuniga III, and Zachary Smith.

Honorary pallbearers are Ricardo Garcia, Louis Martino Jr., and Abelardo Flores Jr.

Under the direction of Artero Memorial Chapels, Port Lavaca, 361-552-2300.

Published in Victoria Advocate on June 26, 2010
 

FRANK A. GONZALEZ SR.

PALACIOS - Frank Alvarado Gonzalez Sr., 87, of Palacios, passed away Wednesday, July 8, 2009. He was born Oct. 5, 1921, in Five Corners, Wharton County.

He was a U.S. Army veteran of World War II and served as a technician fifth grade, cook, 370th Field Artillery Battalion, and was involved in the following campaigns: Normandy, Northern France, Rhineland, Ardennes, Central Europe, G003, WD 45. He received the following decorations and citations: American Defense Service Medal, Good Conduct Medal, Purple Heart, GO 110 2nd INF DIV Sep 44, and EAME Campaign Medal with five Bronze Stars. He was retired laborer with Texas Gulf Sulfur and retired caretaker with Old Gulf Hunting Lodge. He was a member of St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Church.

He is survived by his daughter, Anna Marie Gonzalez of Palacios; sons, Frank Ramon Gonzalez Jr. of Palacios, John Gonzalez of Lubbock, and Santiago Javier Gonzalez of Cedar Park; sister, Maria Louisa Martinez of Bay City; five grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Janie Aparicio Gonzalez; father, Francisco Gonzalez; mother and stepfather, Julia Alvarado Ramirez and Amado Ramirez Sr.; sisters, Elisa Morales, Beatrice Morales, and Lupe Ramirez; and brothers, Reynaldo Ramirez and Amado Ramirez Jr.

Visitation will begin after 5 p.m. today, with a rosary recited at 7 p.m., at St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Church in Palacios. Funeral Mass will be 10 a.m. Saturday at St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Church with the Rev. Charles Dwomoh officiating. Interment with military honors under the auspices of the Veterans of Foreign Wars-Queen Hamlin-Post 2467 will follow at Palacios Cemetery.

His relatives and friends will serve as pallbearers.

Under the direction of Artero Memorial Chapels, Port Lavaca, 361-552-2300.

Published in the Victoria Advocate on 7/10/2009
 

JUAN S. GONZALEZ

Funeral services for Juan S. Gonzalez, 57, of Van Vleck, Texas will be held Friday, Nov. 30 at 10 a.m. at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church in Bay City, Father Edward Boren officiating. Burial will follow at Hawley Cemetery in Blessing. Visitation will be Thursday, Nov. 29 from noon until 8 p.m. A Rosary will be recited from 7  -  8 p.m. at Green's Mortuary.

Mr. Juan S. Gonzalez was born on September 27, 1943, to the union of Cirilo Gonzalez Garcia and Juana Sandoval Gonzalez in Delorez Ioolgo GTO Mexico. He passed away on November 27 in Bay City.

He was preceded in death by his parents and one sister, Adela Gonzalez.

He leaves to cherish his memory: a devoted and loving wife, Maria Guadalupe Gonzalez; seven daughters, Elizabeth, Alicia, Esther, Angie, Janie, Maria, and Rosemary Gonzales; five sons, Arthur, Tony, Carlos,

Manuel, Gergio, Javier, Cristobal, and Roberto Gonzalez; 24 grandchildren; and a host of other relatives and friends.

Pallbearers are Carlos, Johnny, Jimmy, Arthuro, Sergio, and Antonio Gonzalez.

Arrangements are made with Green's Mortuary. A00011A2001NV30

THE DAILY TRIBUNE, Friday, November 30, 2001

ROSE EDDIE GOODMAN

BAY CITY - Rose Eddie Goodman was born Dec. 15, 1924, in Muskogee, Okla., to John and Louvinna Applegate, and passed away Monday, Dec. 20, 2010, in Bay City.

She was preceded in death by her husband, John D. Goodman, and children, Willie Burl Goodman, John Goodman Jr., Billy Goodman, and her parents.

Mrs. Goodman leaves to cherish her memory her children, Timothy Goodman and wife Wilma, George Goodman and wife Evelyn, John W. Goodman, May Robertson and husband Jerry, Nancy Johnson, Mattie Wilson and husband Wayne, Phillip Goodman, Roger Goodman and wife Mary, David Goodman and wife Laura, Scotty Goodman and wife Terri. Other survivors include 37 grandchildren, her 77 great-grandchildren, and her 15 great-great-grandchildren.

Funeral services will be held Friday, Dec. 24, 2010, at 10 a.m., at Bay City Baptist Church in Bay City.

Claire Brothers Funeral Home, Houston, 832-244-8162.

Published in Victoria Advocate on December 23, 2010
 

CAROLINE GORDLEY

PALACIOS - Funeral services for Caroline Gordley, 76, of Palacios, who passed away July 18, 2008, will be held Saturday, July 26, 2008, at 11 a.m., at Ebenezer Baptist Church, Bay City, with the Rev. L.V. Harvey, eulogist.

Burial will follow at Eastview Cemetery.

Visitation will be Friday from 2 till 8 p.m. at the chapel.

Survivors include a daughter, Dorothy Callis of Bay City; one brother, L.C. Page of Palacios; and other relatives.

Arrangements with Duncan-Roberts Funeral Home, 2500 Avenue C, Bay City, Texas, 979-245-5197.

Published in the Victoria Advocate on 7/25/2008

ETHEL MAE GORDON

BAY CITY - Funeral services for Ethel Mae Gordon, of Bay City, will be at 11 a.m. Saturday, June 13, 2009 at Mother Zion Missionary Baptist Church in Bay City with Pastor Murray G. Martin officiating. Burial will follow immediately after the service at Eastview Cemetery in Bay City.

Visitation will be from 4-8 p.m. Friday, June 12, 2009 in the chapel of Green's Mortuary.

Final arrangements entrusted to Green's Mortuary, Bay City, 979-245-3489.

Published in the Victoria Advocate on 6/11/2009

Photo courtesy of Tresmond Scott
 

Funeral services for Helen T. Gordon, 82, of Blessing, will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, February 6, 2010 at Mother Zion Baptist Church, Bay City, with the Rev. Murray Martin, pastor, and the Rev. Ben Hadden, eulogist. Burial will follow at Eastview Cemetery.

Visitation will be from 2 until 4 p.m. Friday at the funeral home chapel, and from 5 until 7 p.m. at Free Zion Baptist Church, Blessing, Texas.

Survivors include her husband of nearly 61 years, Ira Gordon, Jr. of Blessing, and two children, Ira Gordon, III (and Barbara), and Gail Byrd (and Greg). Also four grandchildren, Alisa, Ira IV “Rocky” Carol and Greg, Jr., and one great-granddaughter, Azaria. Also two sisters-in-law, Estella Harris and Alena Robinson. Also a host of other relatives and friends.

Arrangements are with Duncan-Roberts Funeral Home, Bay City, Texas (979) 245-5197.

Bay City Tribune, Published February 3, 2010                           Photo courtesy of Tresmond Scott

Ira Gordon Jr.
"Du Papa"
May 17, 1929 - November 7, 2018

Funeral services for Ira Gordon Jr., 89 of Blessing, Texas will be held Saturday November 17, 2018 at 11 a.m. at Mother Zion Baptist Church, 2705 Avenue B, Bay City, Texas.

Burial will follow at Eastview Cemetery in Bay City, Texas.

Visitation will be held Friday, November 16, 2018 from 4 p.m. until 8 p.m. at Duncan-Roberts Funeral Home Chapel in Bay City, Texas.

Ira Gordon Jr., the son of Ira Gordon Sr. and Mary Hebert Rebector, was born in Blessing, Texas on Wednesday, May 17, 1929. Ira Jr. transitioned from this life on Wednesday, November 7, 2018 in Bay City, Texas.

"Du Papa", as he was often called, was united in marriage to Helen T. Gardner of Bay City, Texas on April 17, 1949. They shared their lives with two children, son, Ira Gordon III (Barbara); and daughter, Gail Byrd (Greg).

Arrangements with Duncan-Roberts Funeral Home, 2500 Avenue C (JP Davis Blvd.), Bay City, Texas; 979-245-5197.

Bay City Tribune Online              Photo courtesy of Faye Cunningham

 

Bonnie Jean Graff
(June 1, 1928 - December 16, 2009)

Bonnie Jean Graff, 81, of Palacios passed away Dec. 16, 2009. She was born June 1, 1928 in Bradford, Arkansas to the late Festus & Thelma Whitley White.

Her husband, John Graff and sister Bobbie Cox preceded her in death. Survivors include daughter Carol Ann Burnett & husband Robert of Goliad, TX; son Rick Graff and wife Keri of El Campo; sister Pat Norris of Brazoria; brothers James White of Gladewater, TX, Ronnie White of Angleton & Mickey White of Angleton and grandsons Robert John Burnett, James Dean Burnett, William Cade Graff and Matthew Payne Graff.

The family will greet friends and relatives from 5pm to 7pm Friday at the funeral home. Funeral service will be 3:00 PM Saturday, Dec. 19, 2009 at the First United Methodist Church in Palacios with Rev. June White officiating. Interment will follow at Hawley Cemetery in Blessing. Pallbearers will be Dickie Kubecka, James A. Lingo, Pete Griffith, Allan Janek, George Capak and Mike Pierce, Jr. Memorials may be made to the First United Methodist Church in Palacios.

Taylor Bros. Funeral Home                                                            Photo courtesy of Heather Serrill Janise

John William Graff
(August 16, 1927 - April 12, 2009)

John William Graff, 81, of Palacios passed away April 12, 2009. He was born August 16, 1927 in Fresno, California to the late John & June Lockwood Graff. He was a member of the First United Methodist Church, served in the US Navy during WWII and had been a Member of the Sweeny Masonic Lodge for 56 years.

Survivors include his wife Bonnie Graff of Palacios; daughter Carol Ann Burnett & son Robert of Goliad, TX; son Rick Graff & wife Keri of El Campo; and grandsons Robert John Burnett, James Dean Burnett, William Cade Graff & Matthew Payne Graff.

The family will receive friends and relatives from 5pm to 7pm Wednesday at the funeral home. Funeral service will be 10:00 AM Thursday, April 16, 2009 at the First United Methodist Church in Palacios with Rev. June White officiating. Interment will follow at the Hawley Cemetery. Pallbearers will be Dickie Kubecka, James Lingo, Ronnie White, Mickey White, Mike Davant & Lee Edward Pierce. Memorials may be made to the First United Methodist Church of Palacios or the American Cancer Society.

The Palacios Beacon, Wednesday, April 22, 2009
 

GRAFF

Funeral services for Mrs. Martha Gregersen Graff, 85, of Palacios will be held at 2 p.m. Sunday at Danevang Lutheran Church. Burial will be in Roselawn Memorial Park, Van Vleck.

Mrs. Graff was born May 14, 1901 in Illinois and died Sept. 19, 1986 at Wagner General Hospital in Palacios.

Mrs. Graff was a 60-year resident of Palacios. She was of the Lutheran faith and was a member of Blessing American Legion Auxiliary and the Pink Ladies of Wagner General Hospital.

Survivors include: a sister, Annie Lindgren of Sycamore, Ill., a nephew, John Graff of Palacios; a niece, Josephine Manley of Farmington, N.M.; and numerous great nieces and nephews.

Pallbearers will be John Toellner, O. V. Christensen, Kenny Christensen, Donald Hyett, Robert Burnett and Joe Lingo.

Arrangements are made with Taylor Brothers Funeral Home in Palacios.

The Daily Tribune, September 21, 1986                                                 Pete Graff

Funeral services for Alton Earl Graham, 97, of Palestine and formally Bay City were at 1 pm Monday, February 8, 2010, at Herrington/Land of Memory Chapel with the Rev. Ron Sloan officiating. Burial followed at Payne Cemetery in Eustace.

Mr. Graham died Saturday, February 6, 2010, at Palestine Regional Medical Center.

Bay City Tribune, Published February 22, 2010
 

ELMER SHEPARD "SHEP" GRAHAM

BAY CITY - Elmer Shepard "Shep" Graham, 87, of Bay City, passed away Friday May 16, 2008. He was born Oct. 13, 1920, in Bay City, to the late Lessie Marie Presley Graham and George Jefferson Graham, the youngest of their four children.
 
Shep was a life long resident of Bay City, a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, served his country as a member of the Army Air Forces during WWII, in which he was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross for valor in combat, and worked for Marathon Oil Co. for many years. He also served as fire marshal for the city of Bay City, was a longtime member of the Bay City Volunteer Fire Dept., served as the church custodian for many years, was a member of the American Legion Post 11, Life Member VFW Post 2438, and a member of Masonic Lodge 865 AF & AM.

Shep is survived by two daughters: Janet French and husband Johnny of Lake Jackson and Gina Hinman and husband Garlan of Bay City; two grandchildren: Jana Gibson and husband Spencer of The Woodlands, Staff Sgt. Jon-Michael French, USA and wife Betsy of Darmstadt, Germany; six great-grandchildren: Kara, Chance and Caden Gibson, and Colby, Nicholas and Brandon French; sister-in-law: Bobbie Lettieri of Florida; and many nieces, nephews great and beyond.

He was preceded in death by his parents; wife: Alice Ruth Catchings Graham; son: Robert Shepard Graham; two brothers: JB "Jack" and JP "Prep" Graham; and sister: Louisa Lowery.

He is also survived by his special friends and caretakers Lee and Joe Guajardo.

A visitation will be held from 6-8 p.m., Monday, May 19, 2008 at Taylor Bros. Funeral Home. The funeral service will be held at 4 p.m., Tuesday May 20, 2008 at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints with Bishop David Homer and Dr. Joseph Cannon, M.D. officiating. Interment will follow at Roselawn Memorial Park in Van Vleck.
Pallbearers will be Staff Sgt. Jon-Michael French, Spencer Gibson, Joe Guajardo, Doug Heubner, Russ Lovell, Ken Madsen, Lynn Royster, and Paul Wainner.

Honorary pallbearers will be Dr. James Cowart, Bill McKissick, Dr. Frank Rickman, Charlie Talbot, and the members of the Bay City Volunteer Fire Dept.

Memorials can be made to the Brazoria County Military Moms, P.O. Box 3615, Lake Jackson, TX 77566; Houston Hospice, 1102 N. Mechanic, El Campo TX 77437-3029; or charity of choice.

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

Arrangements are with Taylor Bros. Funeral Home, Bay City, 979-245-4613.

Published in the Victoria Advocate on 5/17/2008.                          Photos courtesy of Faye Cunningham

HARRY LEE GRANBERRY

ALVIN - Harry Lee Granberry, 79, of Alvin, passed away July, 19, 2008.

Visitation will be held from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., Thursday, July 24, 2008 at Scott Funeral Home Chapel. A memorial service will be held at 7:30 p.m. at Scott Chapel with Dr. Bruce Peterson officiating. Additional services will be held at 11 a.m., Saturday, July 26, 2008 at Progress Baptist Church in Yoakum with the Rev. Kenneth Hodges officiating. Interment will be in Hebron Cemetery in Yoakum.

Memorials may be made to Alvin Meals on Wheels, P.O. Box 2086, Alvin, Texas 77512.

Arrangements under the direction of the Scott Family, 1421 East Hwy. 6, Alvin, Texas 77511. 281- 585-1000.

Published in the Victoria Advocate on 7/23/2008

Grace Cone Grantham

Funeral services for Mrs. Grace Cone Grantham, 82, of Pasadena will be held 10 a. m. Wednesday at the Colonial Funeral Home Chapel in Pasadena with Dr. Ron Lyles officiating. Burial services will be in Hawley Cemetery near Blessing.

Graveside services will be held 1 p. m. Wednesday at Hawley Cemetery.

Mrs. Grantham died Sunday in Lake Charles, La. She was a resident of Pasadena since 1948.

Survivors include: daughters, Yvonne Michelsen of Palm Springs, Calif., and Sandra S. Farris of Houston; sons, Merlyn Grantham of Sulfur, La. and Bernie Grantham of Houston; and grandchildren, Michael K. and Michael W. Michelsen, Monica and Mark Grantham and Harvey Farris.

Arrangements were made with Colonial Funeral Home, ___ Main, Pasadena, Texas.

The Daily Tribune, July, 1984
 

Charles Conley Green

Graveside services will be held for Charles Conley Green, 62, of Bay City, 3 p. m. Saturday at Hawley Cemetery.

Officiating will be the Rev. Delmar Baker of Pearland Baptist Church.

Green died February 4, 1983 at Matagorda General Hospital.

Survivors include sons, Raymond Lyle Green of Oklahoma, City, Okla., Thomas Lloyd Green of Huntsville; daughter, Grace Barnes of Dallas; 5 grandchildren; brother, Troy Green of Bay City; sisters, Ruby Glenn and Gladys Pohlmeyer of Bay City, Joyce Berry of Ninnekah, Okla., Marie Walker of Clute.

Services under the direction of Dick R. Elkins Bay City Funeral Home.

The Daily Tribune, February, 1983
 

EMMET EUGENE GREEN

BAY CITY - Emmet Eugene Green, 90, of Bay City passed away July 24, 2010. He was born June 26, 1920 in Edna to the late Eugene and Annie Terry Green. He served in the U.S. Army during WWII in Karachi, India and Burma, Japan. He was discharged in October 1945 from Fort Sam Houston as a private first class. He lived in El Campo from 1949 until 2002.

Survivors include his son, Glenn Green of San Antonio; daughters, Gloria Sabrsula and husband Alfred of Bay City and Sharon Barfield and husband David of Rogers; sisters, Mary Lucille Conley Lee, Mildred Lee Henderson and Lillie Mae Pearce; grandchildren, Rachel, Ashley and Colleen Green, Craig, Ryan and wife Amanda, Karly Sabrsula, John, Scott and Laura Barfield; and great-grandchildren, Valyn Rosales, Logan and Briana Green, Ty and Crayden Sabrsula.

He was preceded in death by his loving wife, Viola Muener Green, after 57 blessed years of marriage.

Family visitation will be from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. today at Taylor Bros. Funeral Home. The funeral service will be 2 p.m. Tuesday, July 27, 2010 at Nichols Street Church of Christ with Bro. Glenn Organ officiating. Interment will follow at Oaklawn Memorial Park in El Campo.

Memorials may be made to Nichols Street Church of Christ, 1200 Nichols Street, Bay City, TX 77414.

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

Arrangements are with Taylor Bros. Funeral Home in Bay City. 979-245-4613.

Published in Victoria Advocate on July 26, 2010
 

Hazel Irene Green

Funeral services for Hazel Irene Green, 70, of Midfield, will be held at 3 p. m. Saturday at Taylor Brothers Funeral Home Chapel with the Rev. John Tripp officiating. Burial will be in Hawley Cemetery.

Mrs. Green was born Sept. 2, 1914, in Anderson County, Texas, and died at 4:30 p. m. Jan. 31, 1985, at Matagorda General Hospital.

She was a retired bus driver and cafeteria worker at Tidehaven High School and was a member of Blessing Baptist Church.

Survivors include two daughters, Charlotte Smith of Frankston, Texas, and Mildred Melsen of Bay City; three sons, Norman Green of El Campo, Eugene and David Green of Midfield; seven brothers; one sister; 12 grandchildren; and six great-grandchildren.

Pallbearers include Frank Fitzgerald, Bill Hurta, Camp Mehrens, A. L. Roades, Paul Wyatt and Michael Denn.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Herbert Green, and a son, Harold Green.

Arrangements are with Taylor Brothers Funeral Home, Bay City.

The Daily Tribune, February, 1985.
 

Herbert Green

Herbert Green, 62, of Midfield died March 15, 1976 in El Campo. He was born in Wilson County May 3, 1913. He worked for M. J. Denn and Sons in Bay City. Survivors include his widow, Mrs. Irene Green of Midfield; his mother, Mrs. J. A. Green of Bay City; two daughters, Mrs. Mildred Nelson of Bay City and Mrs. Charlotte Smith of Frankston; three sons, Norman Green of El Campo, James Green and William David Green of Midfield; four sisters, Mrs. Marie Walker of Freeport, Mrs. Ruby Gleen of Bay City, Mrs. Joyce Berry of Ninnekah, Okla., and Mrs. Gladys Casey of Bay City; three brothers, Donald Green of Winesboro, Connley Green of Okla., Kenneth Green of Louisiana and 12 grandchildren. Services will be held at 2 p. m. Wednesday, March 17 at the Chapel of the Wheeler Funeral Home in El Campo. The Rev. George Draper will officiate. Burial will be in the Hawley Cemetery. Arrangements are with Wheeler Funeral Home in El Campo.

The Daily Tribune, March 16, 1976
 

REV. K D GREEN

BAY CITY - Funeral services for Rev. K D Green of Bay City will be Saturday, Jan. 1, 2011, at 1 p.m., at New Hope Missionary Baptist Church, Dr. T. L. Richardson, pastor, and Pastor L. C. Cunningham Jr. eulogizing. |

Burial will follow immediately after service at Eastview Cemetery.

He is survived by his wife, Wilada Fields Green; four daughters, Angaleak Flye (and A.C. III), Stacy Green, Theresa Wiggins (and Paul), and Rebecca Baker (and Edmond Sr.); three sons, Dwayne Stredic, Tracy Brinkley, and Henry Brinkley Jr.; 19 grandchildren, 24 great-grandchildren; mother, Lettie Green Giles; two sisters, Eddie Percy Miller (and J.C.), and Annie Bratcher (and Donald); one stepsister, Gloria Joyce McNeil; special niece reared as a sister, Phyllis Hayes; also an extended family of nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives and many friends.

Visitation will be Friday, Dec. 31, 2010, from 4 to 5:30 p.m. in the chapel of Green's Mortuary and 6 to 8 p.m. at Bethel Missionary Baptist Church.

Final arrangements entrusted to Green's Mortuary, 979-245-3489.

Published in Victoria Advocate on December 30, 2010               Photo courtesy of Faye Cunningham

Lillian Willis Green

Funeral services for Lillian Willis Green, 81, of Palacios will be held 10 a. m. Saturday at the Palacios Funeral Home chapel with the Rev. Peter Higgins officiating. Burial will follow at Hawley Cemetery, Blessing.

Mrs. Green was born Sept. 9, 1909, to Duncan and Lily Crouch Wallis in Rockdale and died 10:15 p. m. Feb. 27, 1991 at Plantation Health Care Nursing Home in Lake Jackson.

A resident of Palacios for 25 years, she was a member of the Catholic church.

She is survived by her husband, Sherman Green of Palacios; two daughters, Bobbie Jasek of Lake Jackson and Pam Reif of Blessing; a son, Wallis Green of Houston; 10 grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren.

Arrangements are with Taylor Brothers Funeral Home, Bay City.

The Daily Tribune, February, 1991
 

Sandra Lee Green

Funeral services for Sandra Lee Green, 36, of Blessing, will be held at 10 a. m. Friday at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, Bay City, with Bishop Richard Cantrell and Dr. James Cowart officiating. Burial will be in Hawley Cemetery, Blessing.

Ms. Green was born November 14, 1949, to Oar and Barbara Williams Green and died Feb. 11, 1985, in Bay City.

A lifelong resident of Blessing, she was a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, Order of the Eastern Star 125, Palacios; and the American Society of Clinical Pathologists.

Survivors include her mother, Barbara Green of Blessing; a son, William Stephen Hucke of Blessing; and two brothers, David William Green of Rosenberg and Michael Stephen Green of Bryan.

Pallbearers include Charles Talbot, Shep Graham, Chuck Fisher, Buten Guilott, Raymond Mosley and Walter Lowe.

In lieu of the usual contributions, donations may be made to the Stephen Hucke Education Fund in care of the Latter-Day Saints Church.

Funeral arrangements are with Taylor Brothers Funeral Home, Bay City.

The Daily Tribune, February, 1985
 

Wanda Pearl Rutherford Green
Hawley Cemetery



Wanda Pearl Rutherford Green

BLESSING—Wanda Pearl Rutherford Green, 65, of Blessing, died Friday, Jan. 24, 2003.

She was born June 26, 1937, in Bay City, to the late Howard and Elmer McQueen Rutherford. She was a homemaker.

Survivors: husband, Elba Green; daughters, Gidget Jones of Edna and Debbie Vyvial of Palacios; sons, Chuck Green and Howard Green, both of Ganado, and Rick Green of Louise; brothers, Howard Rutherford of LaWard and Lee Rutherford of Brazora’ 11 grandchildren; and 13 great-grandchildren.

Preceded in death by: parents.

Services will be 1 p. m. Monday at Slavik Funeral Home chapel, the Rev. Kevin Vyvial officiating.

Burial will be at Hawley Cemetery, Slavik Funeral Home, Edna, 361-7822152

Victoria Advocate, January 26, 2003
 

Henry Gregersen Dies at Daughter's Home Here

Mr. Henry Gregersen, 83 years three months and 16 days, died this morning at the home of his daughter, Mrs. Ed. Johnson. His death came following an illness of three weeks.

Surviving are five daughters, Mrs. Ed. Johnson, Mrs. Pete Graff of Palacios, Mrs. Clarence Lindgren of Chicago, Mrs. John Horn of Bay City, Mrs. M. M. DeLano of Highlands; one son, Johnnie Gregersen of Highlands. Also surviving are 18 grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.

Funeral services are under the direction of Taylor Bros. and the funeral will be held from the funeral home, tomorrow at 4 o'clock. Interment will be in Cedarvale Cemetery.

The Daily Tribune, Thursday, December 5, 1940

Mrs. Martha Gregersen

Mrs. Martha Gregersen, age 63, years, 11 months and 11 days, died at her home on the C. T. Dye farm North of Bay City, yesterday morning at 3 o’clock, and was buried in Cedarvale Cemetery this afternoon at 8 o’clock.

Religious services were conducted at the home.

Matagorda County Tribune, May 15, 1925

We wish to thank our friends for the many deeds of kindness and their words of love and sympathy extended us during the late illness and at the death of our beloved wife and mother, Mrs. Martha Gregersen, who passed away Monday, assuring all of our lasting appreciation for all that was so nobly done.

H. Gregersen, Mrs. Ed Johnson, Mrs. M. M. Delano, Johnnie Gregersen, Mrs. C. C. Delano, Mrs. C. L. Lindgren, Mrs. Pete Graff
 

ROBERT GRICE

ANGLETON - Funeral services for Robert Grice, 89, of Angleton, who passed away June 27, 2010, will be held Saturday, July 3, at 11 a.m., at the Duncan-Roberts Funeral Home Chapel. Burial will follow at Eastview Cemetery.

Visitation will be Friday from 2 until 8 p.m. at the chapel.

Arrangement with Duncan-Roberts Funeral Home, 979-245-5197.

Published in Victoria Advocate on July 2, 2010
 

Clara Matura Griffin
(October 30, 1942 - January 8, 2007)

Clara Matura Griffin, 64, of Palacios passed away Jan. 8, 2007. She was born Oct. 30, 1942 in Bay City to Alfred G. and Goldie Hardy Carter. She had been a resident of Palacios for several years and volunteered for the Coast Guard.

Survivors include her husband Tom Griffin of Palacios; daughter Diana Lucas & husband Jeff of Canyon Lake, TX; son Victor Matura & wife Tari of Vicksburg, Miss.; and four grandchildren Mindy, Beverly, & J. C. Lucas and Lauren Matura. She was preceded in death by a grandson Victor Matura, Jr.

Funeral service will be 10:00 AM Wed., Jan. 10, 2007 at Taylor Bros. Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. Zach Nicholson officiating. Interment will follow at Roselawn Memorial Park in Van Vleck. Her grandchildren will serve as pallbearers. Online condolences may be sent by visiting www.taylorbros.net. Arrangements with Taylor Brothers Funeral Home in Bay City. 979-245-4613.

www.taylorbros.net                       Photo  courtesy of Faye Cunningham
 

Joy Lou Griffin, 52 of Sweeny, passed away Monday, August 17, 2009 at her residence.

She was born January 13, 1957 in Wharton, Texas to Kermit and Ferne Finley.

Visitation will be held from 6 until 9 p.m. Wednesday, August 19, 2009 at Taylor Bros. Funeral Home in Bay City.

Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. Thursday, August 20, 2009 at First Baptist Church of Sweeny with the Rev. John Price officiating. Burial will follow at Sweeny Cemetery.

She was preceded in death by her parents: Kermit and Ferne Finley; husband, Ron Griffin; brothers, Kermit Richard "Pete" Finley and Billy Ray "Mike" Finley.

She is survived by: her sisters, Anna Melder of Keller, Texas, Margaret Hooks of Sweeny, Carmen Ducro and husband Harvey of West Columbia; brothers, Roy M. Finley and wife Rhonda and Bubba Finley and wife Cathy, all of Sweeny. She is also survived by many nieces, nephews, cousins, special friends, and her constant companion and beloved dog, Brady.

Pallbearers will be Les Fortenberry, Bobby Scantlin, Peter Raynor, Jonah Bailey, Frankie Ray and Roy Finley. Honorary pallbearers are the Sweeny / West Brazos EMS.

In lieu of flowers, the family request donations be made to the National Kidney Foundation of Southeast Texas, 2400 Augusta, Suite 252, Houston, TX 77057.

Anyone who knew Joy loved her. She had many true friends because she was a true friend. Despite the fact she fought a lifelong battle with diabetes which resulted in the loss of both legs, an eye, many fingers and both kidneys, but never her spirit. What an inspiration to all of us. She woke every morning with at bright smile. Her thoughts were always of others. Her determination to care for others instead of herself kept her going through all her trials. She had to be there for those she loved. We will carry your love in our hearts forever, sweet girl.

Condolences may be shared with the family at www.taylorbros.net.

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

Bay City Tribune, Published August 19, 2009
 

Julie Diane Michelle Griffin, 25, of Bay City, passed away Thursday, October 22, 2009 in Denton, Texas.

She was born January 18, 1984 in Port Huron, Michigan to John Wayne Griffin and Ginger Lee Webb Griffin. She has been a resident of Dallas / Ft. Worth since 2002, attending Texas Women's University and she was a member of the Texas Education Association.

She is survived by: her parents, John W. and Ginger Griffin of Bay City; brother, James Wesley Patrick Griffin and wife Elizabeth of Bangor, Washington; by nephew, John Gavin Lee Griffin of Bangor, Washington; by maternal grandparents, Gary and DeVonna Webb of Wapakoneta, Ohio; and by many aunts, uncles, and cousins.

She was preceded in death by her paternal grandparents, John and Maudie Griffin from Missouri.

The family will receive visitors from 6 until 8 p.m. Tuesday, October 27, 2009 at Taylor Bros. Funeral Home.

Funeral services will be at 2 p.m. Wednesday, October 28, 2009 at Taylor Bros. Funeral Home Chapel with Gary Webb and Bill Brewer officiating.

Interment will follow at Roselawn Memorial Park in Van Vleck.

Pallbearers will be: James Griffin, Gary Webb, Donald Griffin, Michael Kotwal, Jim Popham, Bob Jones, and Roger Ward.

Words of comfort may be shared with the family at www.taylorbros.net.

Arrangements with Taylor Bros. Funeral Home, Bay City, TX (979) 245-4613.

Bay City Tribune, Published October 28, 2009

BILLY BETH BACON GRIFFITH

Billy Beth Bacon Griffith, 85, of Bellville, Tx. and formerly Rockport, Tx., died Jan. 18, 2009 at Port Lavaca Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in Port Lavaca, Tx. A family service will be held Feb. 7 in Cisco, Tx.

Mrs. Griffith was born April 16, 1923 in Cisco, Tx. to Ted and Ola Bacon. She was a veteran of World War II having served in the WACs. She was a retired educator, having taught 28 years in Rockport, Mathis and Bellville.

She is survived by her daughters and sons-in-law Sally and Eddie Sikes of Texas City, Susan Blake and Jessie O’Riley of Port Lavaca, Lucy and Rob Ziegler of Boerne, Tx., and Mary and Nick West of Palacios, Tx.; brother and sister-in-law Joe. T. and Janice Bacon of Fort Worth; and grandchildren McJohn Bagley, Carol Kmiec, Jay Revels and Chris, Billye, Ryan and Randy West, Dana Wild; and 16 great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Albert R. Griffith, Jr.; brothers Bobby Bacon and Richard Bacon; and sister Lucille Bacon Hatton.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Hospice of South Texas, 605 E. Locust Ave., Victoria, Tx. 77901 or a charity of one’s choice.

The Palacios Beacon, Wednesday, January 21, 2009

MARY ANN GRIFFITH

PALACIOS - Mary Ann Laslie Griffith, 76, of Palacios, passed away Tuesday, May 12, 2009. She was born Sept. 27, 1932, in Palacios, to the late Willie Harden "Bill" and Alvena Kopecky Laslie.

Mrs. Griffith had many loves and hobbies in her life including her children, gardening, hunting, fishing, and the love of cooking. She was a member of the United Daughters of the Confederacy and an affiliate of the Church of Christ.

Mary is survived by her three sons: Durrell "Pete" Griffith and wife Deean of Markham, Lewis Griffith and wife Linda of Midfield, and Willie Griffith and wife Robin of Blessing; four granddaughters: D'Lynn Rahe, Heather, Alicia, and Kara Griffith; seven grandsons: Frankie and Jeff Knebel, Wade, Chad, Chris, C.J., and Kyle Griffith; 15 great-grandchildren; three sisters: Vivian Turner, Willie Mae Simpson, and Lucille Dendy; three brothers: Lonnie B., Raymond, and Charles Laslie; and numerous nieces and nephews.
 

She was preceded in death by her parents; daughter: Phyllis Griffith Gill; and grandson: Brian Griffith.
 

The family will receive visitors from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. today at Palacios Funeral Home. A funeral service will be held 2 p.m. Friday, May 15, 2009 at Palacios Funeral Home with Rev. Zach Nicholson officiating. Interment will follow at Hawley Cemetery in Blessing.
 

Pallbearers will be: Chad Griffith, Chris Griffith, C.J. Griffith, Kyle Griffith, Wade Griffith, and Jeffery Knebel.
 

Honorary pallbearer will be Frankie Knebel.
 

Donations may be made to the American Diabetes Association or the charity of choice.
 

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

Arrangements are with the Palacios Funeral Home, 361-972-2012.

Published in the Victoria Advocate on 5/14/2009

Nellie Frances Harrison Griffith
(May 29, 1916 - June 11, 2007)

Nellie Frances Harrison Griffith, 91, native of Bay City, passed away June 11, 2007. She was born May 29, 1916 in Bay City, Texas to the late Francis “Frank” Thomas and Margaret “Maggie” Smith Harrison. She was a member of the First Presbyterian Church of Bay City. She started in the Kindergarten Department and joined the church on September 29, 1929. She was very active in church work and Women of the Church. She was head of the Kindergarten Department for seven years, taught in the Junior Department several years, and substituted in the Plus Ultra Sunday School Class, of which she was a member. She was honored as Woman of the Year in 1988 by the Women of the Church; headed up departments in the Bible School; and was an ordained Elder of the church.

She was a charter member of the Matagorda County Council for Retarded Citizens, founder of the school for the trainable retarded, with the adult and preschool classes. Nellie made the survey of the counties mentally challenged and set up a clinic at the Presbyterian Church on four Saturdays for testing the clients. She raised money for this by using friends to promote the sale of Pillsbury Cake mixes. By this time, Bay City had one of the first black Special Education Classes in Texas, as we were not integrated at the time. She hired a teacher with money raised by her husband’s barbecuing calves donated by him, her brothers, and friends for several years, until the United Way was organized. She was on this Board and headed up the Women’s Division. She served as President of the Retarded Council for nine years and held every office. She taught the older class of mentally retarded for five years. She served on several committees on the Texas Association of Retarded Citizens in Austin including; the nominating committee, the Awards Committee, and served on the Regional Advisory Board. She was asked to take a State Office but had to decline. She organized a Day Camp at Camp Pierce including other mentally retarded from neighboring counties, which led to the organization of Camp Flipper for the mentally retarded held at the Baptist Encampment in Palacios. She was responsible for obtaining the first speech therapist in the Bay City Schools. She found out it was compulsory that therapist was needed by making a survey. Speech Therapists were hard to find, but she located one who could come three days a week. She taught a Sunday School Class (non-denominational) for older boys who were mentally retarded. She was active in P.T.A. and band mothers when her children were in school. She was a Girl Scout Leader and worked with the Rainbow Girls, and was named Women of the Week twice in the local paper. The Chamber of Commerce awarded her the “Outstanding Citizen of Bay City “ in 1965. She was also a member of the Chamber of Commerce, Eastern Star Chapter #380, Texas Retired Teachers Association, A. A. R. P., Matagorda County Museum Association, Volunteer of Bay Villa Nursing Home, and of the Center of the Retarded at Cullen Residence Hall in Houston. She graduated from Bay City High School in 1936. She taught Math and Biology in Hahnsville Louisiana High School during the war. She substituted in Bay City Junior High and Tennie Holmes Schools.

She was preceded in death by her husband of 50 years Joe C. Griffith in 1986, her parents, brothers Percy & wife Marie, Vernon “Red” and Frank Harrison and sisters Vivian Cady Weir and Christine Cook. She is survived by her daughters Kay and husband Paul Kaspar of Ganado, TX, Rebecca “Becky” Griffith, and son Joe Frank Griffith of Bay City; four grandchildren Jason Kaspar, Lance & wife Kim Griffith, Dirk Griffith and Megan Griffith; two great grandchildren Chase and Anna Griffith; brother Travis Harrison; sisters-in-law Mabel Harrison and Carmel Harrison and a number of nieces and nephews.

Visitation will be 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM Thursday, June 14, 2007 at the funeral home. Funeral service will be 2:00 PM Friday, June 15, 2007 at the First Presbyterian Church with Rev. John-Nelson Pope officiating. Interment will follow at Roselawn Memorial Park. Pallbearers will be Jason Kaspar, Lance Griffith, Dirk Griffith, Megan Griffith, Stephen Harrison, Tom Harrison and C. L. Cook. Honorary pallbearers include Charles Harrison, David Harrison, George Harrison, Larry Harrison, Herschel Harrison, Vernon Harrison, John Harrison and Donald Cook.

The family requests that memorials be made to the first Presbyterian Church, American Cancer Society, Matagorda County ARC, PO Box 1305, Bay City, TX 77404-1305, Houston Hospice, 1102 N. Mechanic, El Campo, TX 77437 or the charity of your choice. Arrangements with Taylor Bros. Funeral Home in Bay City. 979-245-4613.

www.taylorbros.net
 

Thomas Charles Griffith

Thomas Charles Griffith, 62, of Markham died May 28 at Matagorda General Hospital. He is survived by his wife, Mrs. Vera Griffith of Markham. Funeral service will be held at the Markham Methodist Church, Friday, May 30 at 10 a. m. with Rev. Warren Hornung officiating. Interment service will be held in the Hawley Cemetery.

Arrangements with Taylor Bros. Funeral Home.

The Daily Tribune, May 29, 1975
 

Eddie “Knappy” Griggs

Funeral services for Eddie “Knappy” Griggs, 79, of Cedar Lane, will be held at 1 p.m. Sunday at St. Mark Missionary Baptist Church, Cedar Lane, the Rev. N. J. Johnson officiating.

Burial will be in Shiloh Cemetery in Cedar Lane.

Visitation will be until 9 p.m. today in the Duncan-Roberts Funeral Home chapel.

Griggs was born April 29, 1908, in Matagorda County, and died August 19, 1987, in his home.

He was a Baptist.

Survivors include his wife, Rosalie Griggs; eight daughters, Lottie Casey of Los Angeles, Calif., Ida Moore and Catherine Griggs, both of Houston; Sharon Scott of Missouri City; and Leola Fields, Viola Grice, Ola Times and Carolyn Griggs, all of Cedar Lane; seven sons, Leroy Sidney of Dallas, Albert Griggs and Wilbert Smith, both of Bay City, Eddie Griggs Jr. and Ben Griggs of Lake Jackson, Elroy Griggs of Brazoria and Lewis Griggs of Cedar Lane; 39 grandchildren; 39 great-grandchildren, 11 great-great-grandchildren; a niece, Carrie M. Richardson of Cedar Lane; and a host of nieces and nephews.

Active pallbearers will be Ellis Griggs Jr., Eugene Griggs, Willie Griggs, Preston Griggs, Murray Griggs Sr., Earl Griggs, Robert Griggs and Jimmy Griggs.

Honorary pallbearers will be Benjamin Griggs, Lewis Griggs, Elroy Griggs, Wilbert Smith, Eddie Griggs Jr., Albert Griggs, Leroy Sidney, Remus Richardson and Willie Fields.

Arrangements are with Duncan-Roberts Funeral Home.

The Daily Tribune, August 1987
 

Funeral services for Munye Rejun Griggs, 22, of Lake Jackson, will be held Tuesday, September 12, 2000, at 11 a.m. at the Bethleham Christian Church in Cedar Lake, with the Rev. K. W. Bree and the Rev. H. L. Hawkins, Jr., eulogists. Burial will follow at St. Mark Cemetery in Cedar Lane.

She was born in Galveston, Texas, on Sunday, June 18, 1978, to Eddie Robert Griggs, Jr. and Gwendolyn Bree Griggs,and passed away Thursday, September 7, 2000, in Bay City. At the time of her demise, she was employed as a substitute teacher with Brazosport I.S.D.

Survivors include her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Eddie Griggs Jr. of Lake Jackson; one sister, A'Shennia Griggs; two brothers, Eddie Griggs III and Cardell Sidney; her maternal grandfather, Lawrence Bree, Sr. of Bay City; her paternal grandmother, Rosalie Griggs of Cedar Lane; a nephew, Braelyn; a god-child, Megan, and an extended family of aunts , uncles, cousins, other relatives and many friends.

Active pallbearers will include Rondell Griggs, Virlon Griggs, Joaquinn Bree, Yohance Bree, Carnell Straughter, Gilbert Ramirez, Ricky Johnson, Tim Bonner, Jeremy Moore, Adam Wiley and Shannon Sidney.

Arrangements are with Duncan-Roberts Funeral Home. A00011A2000SP12

THE DAILY TRIBUNE, Tuesday, September 12, 2000
 

Charles "CT" Tillman Groce, Jr.
(December 19, 1940 - December 9, 2008)

Sweeny, Texas – Charles Tillman Groce, Jr. went to be with his Lord on Tuesday, December 9,2008. He was born December 19, 1940 in Fort Worth, TX to Charles Tillman Groce, Sr. and Mary Elizabeth Hill Groce. He attended Eagle Mountain Elementary School, J.P. Elder Middle School and graduated from Northside High School in 1960. Shortly after graduation he entered the U.S. Army. He did basic training at Fort Riley, Kansas. While completing his training at Fort Knox Kentucky, he met is wife, Rebecca Ann Dye who was a WAC with the Army Corp. Stationed in Fort Hood where he served in the 49th Armored Division, he graduated from Texas A & I. Following college he returned to Fort Worth where he worked on diesel engines using skills he acquired working on tanks for the Army. Eventually, he fell in love with the Texas coast where he realized his dream of coastal living and commercial fishing. Many thanks to Pastor Mike Zimmerman of First Baptist Church, Bay City and Mr. Tom Uher for their care and guidance.

Survivors: Wife, Rebecca Groce of Wadsworth, Son Charles Tillman Groce, III and his wife Odelia of Riviera, Jack Edward Groce and his wife Susan of Wharton, Brian Kelly Groce and his wife Heather of Wadsworth; brothers John M. Groce, James W. Groce, Gaylen L. Groce, Thomas H. Groce, Timothy S. Groce, Noel C. Groce, Robert E. Groce all of Fort Worth, Ewin P. Groce of Lake Forest, Calif.; sisters, Mary Charolotte Groce Byrne of Kennebunk, Maine, Jettie Charolyn Groce Eddleman and Nancy Virginia Groce Holm both of Fort Worth; eight grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his father Charles Tillman Groce, Sr. and mother Mary Elizabeth Hill Groce; brothers William B. Groce and Jack L. Groce.

The family will receive visitors on Sunday, December 14th, from 6:30 PM to 8:30 PM. Graveside services will be held at 10:00 AM Monday, December 15, 2008 at Roselawn Memorial Park in Van Vleck, TX with Rev. Michael Zimmerman officiating.

Memorials: in lieu of flowers, donation may be made in his name to First Baptist Church of Bay City or to Gideon’s International.

Words of comfort may be shared with the family at www.taylorbros.net.

Arrangements with Taylor Bros. Funeral Home, Bay City, TX (979) 245-4613.

www.taylorbros.net

Mary Helen Guanajuato
(May 22, 1949 - March 31, 2006)

Mary Helen Guanajuato, 56 of Bay City, passed away Friday, March 31, 2006 in Houston, TX. She was born May 22, 1949 in Bay City to Max Guanajuato, Sr. and Cayetana Lozano Guanajuato. She was a live long resident of Bay City and a member of Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church.

She is survived by her sisters: Hope Guanajuato and Teresa Guanajuato of Bay City, Connie Longoria & husband Juan of Bay City, Gloria Garcia & husband Frank, Sr. of Markham, and Virginia Perez & husband Gilbert ,Sr. of Bay City; her brothers: Michael Guanajuato of Bay City, Max Guanajuato, Jr. & wife Joann of Angleton, and Ben Guanajuato & wife Terrie of Bay City; she is also survived by her Nieces: Kim & Jason Camacho, Amy & Joe Sanchez III, Christina & Leonal Garza, Sr. and Kayla Guanajuato; her nephews: Frank Garcia, Jr., Gilbert Perez, Jr. and Brian Guanajuato; her great nieces: Kendal Guanajuato, Kenzie Guanajuato, Sadie Perez and Allie Camacho; and great nephews: Leonal Garza, Jr., Mathew Garza, Andrew Garza and Joe Sanchez, III.

The Rosary will be recited at 7:30 PM Monday, April 4, 2006 at Taylor Bros. Funeral Home Chapel. The Funeral Mass will be held at 10:00 AM Tuesday, April 4, 2006 at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church with Rev. Gerry Cernoch officiating. Interment will follow at Cedarvale Cemetery in Bay City. Pallbearers will be Bill Parker, Steve Rodgers, Gilbert Perez, Jr., Max Guanajuato, III, Leonal Garza, Sr., Jose Longoria, Anthony Jimenez, and David Barron.

Arrangements with Taylor Bros. Funeral Home, Bay City, TX (979) 245-4613.

Taylor Bros. Funeral Home

Photo courtesy of Faye Cunningham
 

Josefina Diaz Guerrero
(March 19, 1934 - August 20, 2006)

Josefina Diaz Guerrero, 72, of Palacios died August 20, 2006. She was born March 19, 1934 in Mexico to Jose and Juana Zavala Diaz. She had been a resident of Palacios for over 40 years and was a member or St. Anthony’s Catholic Church.

She was preceded in death by her parents and her husband Ramon Guerrero. Survivors include two daughters Irene Carpenter of Marshall, TX and Mary Torres of Mobile, Alabama; five sons Jose Guerrero, Juan Guerrero & Ramon Guerrero, Jr. all of Palacios, Abel Guerero & Joe Angel Guerrero both of Houston; three brothers Porfirio Diaz of Harlingen, Jose Diaz of San Jose, CA & Manuel Diaz of Fresno, CA; twenty five grandchildren and twenty seven great grandchildren.

A rosary will be recited at 7:00 PM Tuesday, August 22, 2006 at St. Anthony’s Catholic Church. Funeral mass is 10:00 AM Wednesday, August 23, 2006 at St. Anthony’s Catholic Church with Rev. Charles Dowomoh officiating. Interment will follow at the Palacios Cemetery. Pallbearers will be Armando Garza, Jr., Ramon Guerrero III, Joe Edward Guerrero, David Torres, Jr., Juan Guerrero, Jr. and Luis Guerrero. Online condolences may be sent by visiting www.taylorbros.net. Arrangements are with Palacios Funeral Home. 361-972-2012.

www.taylorbros.net
 

Juanita Valdez Guia
(May 24, 1950 - October 22, 2009)

Juanita Valdez Guia, 59, of Bay City passed away Thursday, October 22, 2009. She was born May 24, 1950 in El Campo to Angelina Pulido & Alvino Valdez. Juanita was a resident of Bay City for the past 25 years, and was a member of Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church.

She is survived by her husband: Pedro “Pete” Guia Sr. of Bay City; mother: Angelina Pulido of Bay City; 2 daughters: Lupe Collins & husband Craig of El Campo, and Joann Lule of Bay City; 2 sons: Anthony Guia and Pedro Guia Jr. both of Bay City; brother: Jimmy Valdez of Bay City; 10 grandchildren; and 5 great grandchildren. Juanita was preceded in death by her father Alvino Valdez and stepfather Aristeo Pulido.

A Rosary will be recited 7:00 PM Sunday, October 25, 2009 at Taylor Bros. Funeral Home. Mass will be held 10:00 AM Monday, October 26, 2009 at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church in Bay City with Father Gerry Cernoch officiating. Interment will follow at Roselawn Memorial Park in Van Vleck.

Taylor Bros. Funeral Home

Jim Wilkerson Gunnels

Jim Wilkerson Gunnels, 76, of Lake Jackson, passed away Thursday, May 14, 2009, at his home after a long battle with cancer.

Jim was born October 9, 1932, in Hanover, Texas. His family moved to Freeport during WWII and he attended the local high school. He left the area after graduation to serve as an Air Force medic during the Korean War. Following his service, he returned to Texas and was eventually the owner of an area gas station and restaurant before finally returning for good in 1975 when he opened Jim Gunnels Insurance Agency. He worked as an agent for Farmers Insurance until his retirement in December 2005. Jim married his wife, Pat Gunnels in 1973 in Bay City, Texas.

Jim is survived by his wife, Delores “Pat” Gunnels; son, Nick Gunnels and his, fiancée, Stacy Prince; sons, Chris Gunnels and Michael Martin; sister, Jean Dietz and her husband, Horace; sisters-in-law, Lucia and Frankie Gunnels; brother-in-law, Robert Maxwell and his wife, Lucille; numerous nieces, nephews, other family members and many caring friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Tom and Alice Gunnels; and brothers, Talmadge and Tom C. Gunnels.

Funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m., Monday, May 18, 2009, at Stroud Funeral Home.

Interment will be at 3:00 p.m. at Hawley Cemetery in Blessing, Texas.

Visitation will be from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., Sunday, May 17, 2009, at the funeral home.

Pallbearers will be Robert Davis, Mark Pekar, Chris Lobdell, Gary Krenek, B. J. Krenek and Danny Strauss.

The family would like to thank Dr. Resnick, his nurse, Jenny Ann and the staff of Angleton Visiting Nurses for their excellent care.

Memorial online condolences may be sent at www.stroudfuneralhome.com.

Final arrangements entrusted to Stroud Funeral Home, 538 N. Highway 288-B, Clute, TX, (979) 265-1188.

The Facts, Published May 17, 2009                   Photo courtesy of Tammy Potter
 

William Thomas “Buster” Gunter

Funeral services for William Thomas “Buster” Gunter were held in the Palacios Funeral Home Chapel at 3 p. m. Wednesday, May 7, with the Rev. Tom Connolly officiating. Interment was in Hawley Cemetery.

Son of the late William Travis Gunter and Minnie Mattie Spencer Gunter, he was born November 14, 1923, in Midfield. A lifetime resident of this area, he was a veteran of World War II, having served in the U. S. Navy. He passed away Monday, May 5, after an illness of several months.

He is survived by his wife, Willie Mae Gunter of Palacios; two daughters, Joyce Hudson of San Marcos and Shirley Templeton; son-in-law Terry Templeton; one grandson, Travis Rogers, all of Bay City and one sister, Mrs. Beulah Mae Sparks of Palacios.

The Palacios Beacon, Thursday, May 15, 1975
 

Federico Gutierres

BAY CITY - Federico "Fred" Gutierres, 79, of Bay City, died Sunday, Nov. 30, 2003.

He was born June 25, 1924, in Cuero, to the late Rafael and Antonia Gutierres. He was a Catholic.

Survivors: wife, Mary Ann Gutierres; daughters, Mary Christina of Bay City and Gloria Contreras of Corpus Christi; sons, Jesse Gutierres of Corpus Christi and Danny Gutierres of Kingsville; and sister, Celia Gutierres.

Visitation will be noon-8 p.m. today at Green's Mortuary chapel.

Services will be 10 a.m. Wednesday at the funeral home chapel, the Rev. Gerry Cernoch officiating.

Burial will be at St. Peter Cemetery in Blessing. Green's Mortuary, Bay City, 979-245-3489.

The Victoria Advocate, December 2, 2003
 

CECILIA NEMEC GUTOWSKI

ALVIN - Cecilia Nemec Gutowski, 56, of Alvin passed away May 15, 2010. She was born March 8, 1954 in Bay City to the late Charles R. and Agnes Marie Seviek Nemec. She was a 1973 graduate of Tidehaven High School.

Survivors include her husband, Mark Gutowski of Alvin; son, Nathan Gutowski of Alvin; sister, Christine Naiser and husband Tony of Midfield; brother, Vincent Nemec and wife Cynthia of Bay City; sister-in-law, Adrienne Johnson of Clear Lake; a number of nieces and nephews; and a host of other relatives.

Her brother, Patrick Nemec, preceded her in death.

A rosary will be recited at 7:30 p.m. today, May 18, 2010 at Taylor Bros. Funeral Home. Mass will be 11 a.m. Wednesday, May 19, 2010 at St. Peter's Catholic Church in Blessing with Rev. Sam Appiasi officiating.
Shane Owen, Ben Williams, Jayson Naiser, Ryan Naiser, Thomas Nemec, Wes Nemec and John Nemec will serve as pallbearers.

Memorials may be made to Hospice Compassus, 1100 Gulf Frwy., League City, TX 77573.

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

Arrangements are with Taylor Bros. Funeral Home in Bay City. 979-245-4613.

Published in Victoria Advocate on May 18, 2010
 

Annie Laura Moore Guynes

Funeral services will be held for Annie Laura Moore Guynes, 93, of Blessing, 10 a. m. Saturday at Taylor Brothers Funeral Home Chapel.

Guynes died October 15, 1981 at Gulf Coast Hospital in Wharton.

Officiating at the services will be Sam Kitchings.

She is survived by daughters, Mrs. Hazel Baker of Blessing, Mrs. Christine Webster of California and Mrs. Opal Joines of Pasadena; sons, Henry Guynes of Markham, Ben Buynes of Mt. Belvieu and George Guynes of Friendswood; sister, Mrs. Hattie Vance of New Mexico; 19 grandchildren, 38 great-grandchildren and 1 great-great-grandchild.

Burial will follow services at Hawley Cemetery.

Pallbearers include Wayne Guynes, Tommy Guynes, Don Guynes, Mike Guynes, Kenneth Joines and August Jalufka.

Arrangements with Taylor Brothers Funeral Home.

The Daily Tribune, October, 1981
 

Arvol Norman Guynes
 

GUYNES, Arvol Norman, age 56 of Bay City, passed away Nov. 20, 1970 in John Sealy Hospital, Galveston. Funeral services were held Sunday, Nov. 22 at Taylor Brothers Chapel with the Rev. G. T. Parker officiating.
 Interment was at Hawley Cemetery with Masonic graveside services.
 

Guynes is survived by his wife, Georgia Ruth of Bay City; one daughter, Mrs. Sherry Ramerez of Houston; two sons, Jerry Gene of Bay City and Benny Buck of Houston; two sisters, Mrs. L. J. Nicholson of Thibodeaux, La., and Mrs. A. W. Hurta of Midfield; two brothers, Garland of Clute and James Ralph of Bay City; and three grandchildren. Pallbearers were A. V. Bosak, S. M. and Jimmy Rickaway, W. M. Epperson, Lee Hall Pierce, F. J. Hurta, and Robert Schurtz.

Matagorda County, Texas, November, 1970
 

George Guynes
(April 1, 1932 - February 16, 2008)

George Guynes, 75, of Alvin, TX passed away Saturday, February 16, 2008 in Houston, TX. He was born April 1, 1931 in Blessing, TX to Harry Guynes and Annie Laurie Moore Guynes. He was a resident of Alvin for the past four years and a former Matagorda County resident of the Palacios, Blessing, and Carancahua Bay areas. George was a retired Building Superintendent and enjoyed fishing and hunting.

He is survived by his daughters and sons-in-law: Debra K. and Chris Grilli of Hempstead, Sherry L. Meador of League City and Karen R. and Terry Welker of Alvin; by his son: Michael R. Guynes of Alvin; by his grandchildren: Wade L. Jones, Aaron Connell, Michelle Welker, Christopher Welker, and Courtney Guynes; and great grandchildren: Cody and Cameron Connell. He was preceded in death by his wife: Ethel Ann Guynes; by his parents: Harry and Annie Moore Guynes; and by his brothers and sisters: Bud, Opal, Hazel, Ben, Henry and Christine.

The family will receive visitors from 5 PM to 7 PM Monday, February 18, 2008 at the Palacios Funeral Home. Graveside funeral services will be held at 2:00 PM Tuesday, February 19, 2008 at the Palacios Cemetery.

Words of comfort may be shared with the family at www.taylorbros.net. Arrangements are with Palacios Funeral Home, Palacios, TX (361) 972-2012.

www.taylorbros.net
 

GUYNES

Henry Guynes, 76, of The Woodlands died November 17, 2003 at Houston Northwest Medical Center in Houston. He was born November 11, 1927 in Blessing, Texas to the late Harry and Annie Laurie Moore Guynes. Mr. Guynes was a resident of The Woodlands the past year, and a former resident of Markham for 53 years. He was a retired operator with Marathon Oil with 31 years of service.

Survivors include: his wife of 54 years, Mamie Jewel Guynes of The Woodlands; two daughters and sons-in-law, Cathy and Dennis Roach of The Woodlands, and Janet and Marshall Richardson of Midfield; brother & sister-in-law, George and Ethel Guynes of Cape Caranachua; grandchildren, Chris Roach, Misty Roach, and Amy Richardson all of The Woodlands, and Cody Richardson of San Marcos, Texas; great granddaughter, Chelsie Anna Roach of The Woodlands; and he also leaves behind his beloved dog Jaxs.

He was preceded in death by his brothers, Harry and Ben Guynes; and his sisters, Hazel Baker, Christine West and Opal Guynes.

Henry was a very loving husband, father, grandfather, and great grandfather. He was a man who could fix anything. His greatest joy was spending time with his family.

Funeral service will be 10 a.m. Wednesday, November 19, 2003, at the Nichols Road Church of Christ with Bro. Joe Wrape officiating.

Interment will follow at Hawley Cemetery in Blessing.

Pallbearers will be Tommy, Don, Wayne, and Michael Guynes, Clint Cannon, Roy Salazar, and Danny James. Honorary pallbearers will be Billy Mack Williams, Harold Curnutt, Francis "Red" Denbow and all other employees of Marathon Oil. Memorials may be made to the charity of choice.
 

Arrangements are with Taylor Bros. Funeral Home.

Bay City Tribune, November 19, 2003

JUANITA GUYNES

Juanita, the eight-month-old daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Roe Guynes of Blessing passed away Tuesday morning. Funeral services were held at the church in Blessing this (Wednesday) morning with interment in the Hawley Cemetery. Walker-Matchett Funeral Home was in charge.
 

THE MATAGORDA COUNTY TRIBUNE, June 8, 1933

Funeral Services Are Held Dec. 26 For Mrs. Elizabeth Guynes

Mrs. Elizabeth Guynes passed away at the home of her daughter, Mrs. J. L. Nicholson in Clute, Texas, on December 25 [1947].

Mrs. Guynes was born in Chatfield, Texas, April 29, 1896, as Mary Elizabeth Little. She and Roe Guynes were married April 23, 1912, and to this union six children were born, five of which are now living.

She and Mr. Guynes moved to Blessing in 1918, making it their home for 28 years. Due to ill health she had made her home in Clute the past year at the home of her daughter.

She is survived by the following children: A. N. Guynes of Houston, Mattie Nora Hurta of Midfield, Margaret Nicholson and Garland D. Guynes of Clute, and J. R. Guynes of Sweeny. Surviving also are two sisters, Mrs. Chesley Patterson and Mrs. C. H. Heifner of Corsicana; three brothers, Jimmie Little of Chatfield, Oliver and William Little of Fort Worth.

Mrs. Guynes was laid to rest beside her husband, who preceded her in death two and one-half years ago, in the Hawley Cemetery December 26.

"Weep not, loved ones, for your Mother is in God's care.

January 8, 1948, Matagorda County, Texas

Georgia R. "Doll" Guynes

Georgia R. "Doll" Guynes, 81, of Humble, TX passed away Friday, February 28, 2003 in Wharton, TX. She was born August 27, 1921 in Navarro County to William and Lorene Morris Bivin. She was a member of the First Baptist Church of El Campo, a former resident of El Campo, and a member of the Eastern Star.

She is survived by her daughter and son-in-law: Sherry Lynn and Donald Ray Galow of Humble; by her sons and daughters-in-law: Benny "Buck" and Carolyn Sue Guynes of Lincoln Hills, IL and Jerry Gene and Marilyn Guynes of Bryan, TX; by her grandchildren: Vickie, Terry, Troy and wife Jacqui, Tracy and wife Christi, Michelle and husband Jeff, Jason, Aaron, Stacey, and Christopher; by her Great Grandchildren: Kyle, Tyler, Mikala, and Haley; and by her beloved dog, Sweetie.

Funeral services will be held at 2:00 PM Sunday, March 2, 2003 at the Taylor Bros. Funeral Chapel with Rev. Richard Dubroc officiating. Interment will follow at Hawley Cemetery, Blessing, TX. Pallbearers will be Troy Galow, Tracy Galow, Donald Galow, Jason Galow, Terry Guynes and Christopher Guynes. Honorary pallbearer is Tyler Galow.

Arrangements are with Taylor Bros. Funeral Home, Bay City, TX 979-245-4613.

The Victoria Advocate, Saturday, March 1, 2003

Blessing Resident Dies Tuesday In Freeport Hospital

Death came to Mr. Roe Guynes of Blessing Tuesday, April 10, [1945] at 4:30 p.m., in a Freeport hospital. A resident of Blessing, he was 57 years, seven months and 21 days of age.

He is survived by his wife, Mrs. Mary E. Guynes of Blessing; two daughters, Mrs. A. W. Hurta of Midfield and Mrs. Louis Nicholson of Blessing; three sons, Arvol Norman of Palacios, James Ralph of the U. S. Navy, and Garland D. of Blessing; two sisters, Mrs. Ralph Ship of Corsicana, Tex., and Mrs. Hallie Griffin of Arizona; two brothers, Elmer of California and Harvey of Blessing.

Deceased was a member of the Blessing Masonic Lodge.

Funeral services, in charge of Taylor Bros. Funeral Home, are awaiting the arrival of his son from the Navy. Burial will be in Hawley Cemetery.

[Born August 19, 1888]

Matagorda County, Texas

Antonia Guzman
(August 22, 1922 - January 25, 2010)

Antonia Pinon Guzman, 87, of Bay City passed away Monday, January 25, 2010. She was born August 22, 1922 in Guanajuato Mexico to the late Felipe & Guadalupe Vargas Pinon.

Antonia is survived by her 5 daughters: Maria Gonzales & husband Michael of Bay City, Maria Garcia & husband Porfirio of Camargo Tom Mexico, Juanita Aguilar & husband Alonso of Ganado, Herminia Aguilar & husband Martin of Mission, and Lupita Garza of Houston; son: Inosencio Guzman & wife Lile of San Antonio; brother: Felipe Pinon of Rio Grand City; 16 grandchildren; and 14 great grandchildren. Her parents, and her husband Juan P. Guzman preceded her in death in 2002.

A prayer service will be held 7:00 PM Tuesday, January 26, 2010 at Taylor Bros. Funeral Home. A funeral service will be held 10:00 AM Wednesday, January 27, 2010 at Taylor Bros. Funeral Home with Pastor Saul Garcia officiating. Interment will follow at Cedarvale Cemetery in Bay City.
 

Lucille Robles Guzman
(February 5, 1919 - May 15, 2007)

Lucille Robles Guzman, 88, of Bay City passed away Tuesday May 15, 2007 at her home. She was born February 5, 1919 in Splendora, TX to the late Matias Robles and Natalia Gonzales Robles. Mrs. Guzman was a life long resident of Bay City, and a faithful member of Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church.

She is survived by her daughters: Lydia Pena of Port Lavaca, Lucille Kopecky and Hope Barrera, both of Bay City; by her sons: Fred Guzman, Jr. of Brenham, Danny Rodriguez of Harlingen, Joe Guzman and Ricardo Guzman, both of Bay City; and by 23 grandchildren, 51 great grandchildren and 11 great-great grandchildren. Mrs. Guzman was preceded in death by her parents; husband: Fredrico Guzman; son: Antonio Guzman; and by seven brothers & sisters.

A Rosary will be recited 7:30 PM Thursday, May 17, 2007 at Taylor Bros. Funeral Home Chapel. The Funeral Mass will be held 10:00 AM Friday, May 18, 2007 at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church with Father Gerry Cernoch officiating. Interment will follow at Roselawn Memorial Park Cemetery in Van Vleck. Pallbearers will be Daniel Rivera, Jr., Jesse Barrera, Jr., Eddie Guzman, Adam Kopecky, Henry Pena and David Kopecky. Honorary pallbearers are Manuel Pena, Dennis Pena and Steve Guzman.

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

www.taylorbros.net                   Photo courtesy of Faye Cunningham
 

Janice Ruth Gwin

Miss Janice Ruth Gwin, 23, died August 4 in Houston. She is survived by her parents, Rev. and Mrs. J. P. Gwin of Palacios, a sister and brother-in-law, Joyce and Charles Fitzmorris of Spring; two sisters who live at home, Jill and Jenta Gwin; her maternal grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. Carl Keith, Sr., of Hollandale, Miss.; and several uncles, aunts and cousins. She was a member of Trinity Baptist Church and a very active Christian. She was Valedictorian of Palacios High School, class of 1972. She was finalist in the International Science Fair in 1970 and 1972. She was a former student at Houston Baptist University. Services will be held on Saturday, August 6, at 10:30 a. m. in Trinity Baptist Church of Palacios with Rev. T. C. Herbert and Rev. Orville Roberts officiating. Burial will be at Hawley Cemetery under the direction of Taylor Bros. In lieu of usual remembrances, the family suggests friends contribute to cystic fibrosis research, care of Dr. G. M. Harrison, TIRR, Texas Medical Center, Houston 77039. To know her was to love her.

The Daily Tribune, August 5, 1977
 

Copyright 2007 - Present by Carol Sue Gibbs
All rights reserved

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