Matagorda County Obituaries
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A. N. "Sandy" Sandusky
(April 6, 1921 - October 15, 2017)  

A. N. “Sandy” Sandusky, 96, formerly of Bay City passed away October 15, 2017. He was born April 6, 1921 in Rio Vista, Texas to the late Alonzo Newton Sandusky, Sr. and Susie Menefee.

He graduated from Palacios High School and served in the US Navy during WWII. He would be remembered in this area as a grocer and ice man.

He was preceded in death by his wife Mildred Sandusky and a son-in-law Charles Fox.

Survivors include daughters Margaret Fox of Pearland, Kathryn Barnet of Spring and Pat Esslinger & husband Warren Campbell of Houston; son Dr. George Sandusky & wife Mary Ann of Cedar Hill, TX; 9 grandchildren and a host of great and great-great grandchildren.

The family will receive friends and relatives from Noon until 2:00 PM Tuesday at the funeral home. Private interment services will follow.

Taylor Bros. Funeral Home
 

Arnelia Bartee Sandusky
January 19, 1926 – October 28, 2012

Arnelia Sandusky, age 86, passed away on October 28, 2012 in Tomball, TX. She was born in Oakhurst, TX on January 19, 1926. Arnelia worked as a secretary for the Soil Conservation Office in Bay City, TX for many years. She had a heart for missions and serving her community through the church. She served as president of the Women's Missionary Union and was a faithful member of First Baptist Church of Bay City, Rosanky Baptist Church, First Baptist Church of Smithville, TX, and Mims Baptist Church in Conroe. Arnelia was preceded in death by her husband, Gene Sandusky; parents, Willie and Callie Bartee; sister, Aileen Lenze; and brother, Lloyd Bartee. She is survived by her children, David Sandusky and wife Robin, Jeannie Sullivan and husband Leland, Jeff Sandusky and wife Renee, Mike Sandusky and wife Kecia; grandchildren, Karen, Zachary, Kay, Ethan, Andrea, Callie, Tod, Jessica, Mikayla, and Rebecca; brother, Willie Ray Bartee; and numerous relatives and friends. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in Arnelia's name to Samaritan's Purse and the National MS Society.

Eickenhorst Funeral Services, Conroe, Texas
 

Billy Gene Sandusky
Dec. 23, 1924 - March 12, 2006

Billy Gene Sandusky, 81, of Magnolia, died at his home on March 12, 2006 following many years of courageously fighting multiple sclerosis.

He was born on December 23, 1924 in Rio Vista, Texas and served in the United States Navy during World War II. He brought his family to Bay City in the early 1950's and worked for the Celanese Chemical Company in Bay City for many years. He was a member of the Bay City Volunteer Fire Department and a member and a Deacon of the First Baptist Church of Bay City. He was instrumental in forming and building the Baptist church in Sargent and did other volunteer service in the area.

Even though he suffered from a debilitating disease he remained a strong example of faith and strength to his family and friends.

He is survived by: his wife of over 50 years, Arnelia; daughter and her husband, Jeannie and Leland Sullivan of Magnolia; sons and daughters-in-law, David and Robin Sandusky of Aledo, Jeffrey and Renee Sandusky of Beaumont, and Michael and Kecia Sandusky of Moscow, Idaho; sisters, Peggy White and Rala Dalscheimer; brother, A.N. Sandusky; and grandchildren, Zachary and Andrea Sullivan, Karen, Kay, Todd, Ethan, Callie, Jessica, Mikayla, and Rebecca Sandusky.

Funeral services were held on March 17, 2006 at the Mims Baptist Church in Conroe and interment followed at Center Hill Cemetery in Oakhurst, Texas.

Services were under the direction of Cashner Funeral home in Conroe.

Bay City Tribune, Published March 22, 2006
 

James Dinsmore Sartwelle

James Dinsmore Sartwelle of Sealy passed to the sheltering arms of his Lord on March 15, 2002. J. D. as he was known to most, was the eldest of seven children born to James Williams and Lura Charlotte Arnold Sartwelle. He was born in Palacios, Texas on March 26, 1921 and in 1926 moved with his family to Houston. J. D. attended public schools in Houston and the Massey Business College before beginning work in family businesses. J. D. is predeceased by his mother and father, his wife, Mary Parker Belk, the mother of his children, a brother Henry, a brother-in-law, Hugh Buffaloe, and his eldest child and daughter Mary Judith (Sophie) Kracke. J. D. is survived by his wife Cynthia Darnell Woykyns, brother Robert and wife Wanda of Gillham, Arkansas; sisters, Helen Buckley and husband Jack of Houston, Mary Jane Willis and husband Robert of Sugar Land, Kay Buffaloe of Palacios, and Margaret DeBardeleben and husband Frank Nelson of Birmingham, Alabama. He is survived by his children, J. D. Jr. and wife Lavinia (Sugie) of Sealy, William C. Sartwelle and wife Mary Jane of Houston, Thomas P. and wife Priscilla of Houston, and Susan Elizabeth and husband Leroy of Sealy and a stepson Garrett Wotkyns of Washington D.C. J. D. is also survived by fifteen grandchildren, four great-grandchildren and many nieces and nephews. J. D. is also survived by his daughter-like secretary of forty years, Anita Little and husband Glenn and a very special friend, Gloria Walker of Sealy. J. D. was a lifelong Episcopalian as his grandfather W. L. Sartwelle was one of the First Episcopal clergy in the State of Texas. He is formerly a member of Trinity Episcopal Church in Houston and was currently a member of St. John's Episcopal Church in Sealy. J. D. grew up in the family tradition of livestock production and marketing as he devoted his life to the workings of the Port City Packing Co., the Port City Stockyards Co. and the Sartwelle Brothers Ranch. J. D. was discharged from service in the U. S. Army in 1945 and began to actively manage the Stockyards Co. to the point that it became the 4th largest calf market in the U.S. In his early days in business J. D. distinguished himself by being named Houston Jaycee's Outstanding Young Man of the Year in 1956. J. D. was one of the organizers and early day President of the Houston Farm and Ranch Club. On a statewide basis he was one of the organizers and Vice President of the original Texas Beef Council. He followed the footprints of his father and involved himself in the affairs of the American Brahman Breeders Association, serving as a Vice President and on its Board for many years and at his death was a Director Emeritus. He was an organizer and President of the Texas Brahman Association and was named TBA's Beef Booster of the Year in 1985. His father, J.W., is generally credited as the founding father of the then Houston Fat Stock Show and J. D. for many years involved himself with the Show, serving as a Vice President and Secretary. He was the principal organizer and Chairman of the International Committee, the Junior Commercial Steer Feeding Contest, and the All Breeds Livestock Sales Committee. J. D. was active in the affairs of the Texas and Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association. He was a long-time Chairman of its Marketing Committee, served on its Executive Committee for many years and was an Honorary Vice President. J. D. served on several State Boards to include the State Board of Public Welfare, the Texas Water Development Board, and most recently as a twelve-year member of the Texas Animal Health Commission. He served on many Agriculture Study Committees for the State and Texas A & M Agriculture Programs, was Chairman and Co-Chairman of the two Beef Referendum Campaigns for Texas and served several years on the Board of the U.S. Meat Export Federation. J. D. recently completed his term on the Board of the George Foundation in Ft. Bend County and at his death was an active Board Member of the Citizens State Bank of Sealy. J. D. tirelessly worked for the livestock industry that he loved and was recognized on several occasions for his service. In 1972 he was named "Texas Agriculture Man of the Year" by the Texas County Agricultural Agents Association. In 1978 he was awarded the prestigious Knapp-Porter Award by the Texas Agriculture Extension Service. In 1981 he was named "Man of the Year in Service to Agriculture" by the Progressive Farmer magazine. J. D. was inducted into the International Stockman's Hall of Fame in 1995 and in 1998 was the recipient of the Texas A & M Agriculture Program's Distinguished Texan in Agriculture Award. In 2000 J. D. was awarded the Lifetime Ranching Heritage Award of the Texas and Southwestern Cattle Raisers Museum. J. D. Sartwelle was a child of God, a gentleman's gentleman, a man's man, a brother, father, and family man second to none. He was a friend beyond all expectations and worked for the good of his agriculture industries and his fellow man. He always said to put on his tombstone, "He ain't missed nothing." A Celebration of Life will be celebrated at St. John's Episcopal Church in Sealy at 3:00P.M. on Sunday, March 17, 2002. Pallbearers will be longtime Port City Employees/Associates, G. D. Scott III, William Hartlage, Glenn Little, and nephews, Steve Buckley, Jim Buckley, Bill Buckley, Henry Buffaloe, Tommy Buffaloe, Glen Sartwelle, and Bobby Willis. Honorary pallbearers will be Roland Adamson, Rocky Parr, John Gayle, Rayford Smith, Coleman Locke, Hilmar Moore, Milton Robinowitz, Bob Inglish and all members of Port City's Board of Directors and all employees of Port City Stockyards. Interment will be in the Sealy Cemetery. Remembrances, should you wish, may be made to J.D.'s beloved St. John's Episcopal Church Memorial Fund or to the charity of your choice. Funeral Services under the direction of Knesek Family Funeral Chapel, 768 Fourth Street, Sealy, Texas (979) 885-3535.

 Published in Houston Chronicle from Mar. 16 to Mar. 17, 2017
 

Don Schmersahl II
(January 11, 1977 - October 5, 2017)

Robert Gene Seiferman
April 16, 1939 - October 3, 2017

Robert Gene Seiferman, 78, of Bay City, TX, returned home to be with his Heavenly Father on Tuesday, October 3, 2017.

Bob passed peacefully away in Round Rock, TX  after a long hard fight with cancer. The youngest of eight, he was born on April 16, 1939, in Paris, TX to the late Elmer and Katherine Fry Seiferman. He was named after his uncle Eugene Harrell, former Lamar County Judge and legislator.

Bob was a former Paris police officer before joining the Department of Public Safety and he retired as a State Trooper IV after many years working Matagorda County. He received many commendations over the years for his actions as a Trooper and was honored to have served on security details for VP Bush, former Governor Smith, and the LBJ Library dedication protests. He was also recognized as Matagorda County 100 Club Outstanding Officer of the Year 1979, 1984 and 1986. As a young man he also served in the Texas Army National Guard.

He loved the outdoors and fondly recalled hunting in his youth in the back woods of Lamar County. He enjoyed spending time with his many grandkids and was sometimes just plain intimidated by their shear numbers and rowdiness and was tempted more than once to break out the handcuffs.

He is preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Gale, Joe, and JD; and sisters, Margaret Seiferman, Jane Callicoat, and Mary Hatcher.

He is survived by daughter, Natalie Domhoff (Rick) of Pittsburgh, PA; sons, Bobby Seiferman (Kathleen) of Round Rock, Curtis Seiferman (Debbie) of Pflugerville and Jeff Seiferman of Lago Vista; grandchildren, Leslie Mabry (Dallas), Grant, Emily, Luke, Marissa, Allison, Katelynn, and Curtis Seiferman Jr, Jessie Padilla (Joel); great grandchildren, Elle and Dallas Mabry Jr.; sister, Patsy Jones of Pattonville, TX; and many nieces and nephews.

Memorial and Celebration of Life to be held on Monday, October 9, 2017 at 11 a.m. at Calvary Baptist Church in Bay City, TX with Pastor Chester Sassman officiating.

Bob's ashes will be returned to Lamar County per his wishes.

Arrangements with Beck Funeral Home in Pflugerville, TX.

In lieu of flowers the family requests that you give a generous gift to the Matagorda County 100 Club in Bob's name. To donate, mail to P.O. Box 452, Bay City, TX 77404-0452.

Bay City Tribune, October 8, 2017

Mary Baines Sheeran
November 28, 1920 - February 23, 2017

Mary Baines Sheeran was born to Joseph Wilson Baines and Marianna Elder Baines on November 28, 1920 in Dallas, Texas. She passed away on February 23, 2017 in Victoria, Texas at the age of 96.

Mary’s Mother met with a tragic and untimely death when she was only six weeks old.  Her Father felt it would be best for her to be raised by her Grandmother, Mary H. Elder and so Palacios, Texas became her home.  A wonderful group of aunts and uncles assisted in her upbringing.

She graduated from Palacios High School in 1938 and went on to receive her Bachelor’s Degree from Baylor University and later her Masters from University of Houston.  Mary had a true joy for teaching and taught English and History for 31 years in Palacios East Side Elementary.  Her students were felt to be her extended family.  She received numerous teaching awards and was active in Delta Kappa Gamma and was a President of TSTA (Matagorda County).

Mary married Arthur R. Sheeran in 1952 and they had 41 happy years of marriage, until Arthur passed away in 1993.  They had four children – Marianna, Hank, Vikijane and Ben.  They both retired in 1981 and enjoyed extensive travel together to the Holy Land, Europe, Russia and the U.S.A.  She later took each of her grandchildren (individually) on a special trip to a far-away place of their choosing.

Mary was a long time faithful member of First Baptist Church, Palacios where she taught Sunday School and served in many capacities.  She later helped start up the Carancahua Chapel and she and Arthur attended many services there.  Mary truly loved the Lord and served Him well.

Mary’s other interests included sewing, bird watching, family camping, aerobics, reading and just being with people.

She is survived by her children and their spouses, Marianna Young (Dennis), Hank Sheeran (Kathy), Vikijane Moiser (Rudy), and Ben Sheeran (Evelyn); seven grandchildren; four great grandchildren; one cousin, Cliff Rees; and numerous friends. She was predeceased by her husband; and one Grandson, J. A. Sheeran.

The family wishes to thank the staffs of Trinity Shores (Port Lavaca), Twin Pines (Victoria) and Crown Hospice for the loving care they gave Mother in her final years.

The family received friends and relatives from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m., Saturday, February 25, 2017 at Palacios Funeral Home.

 Services were held at 2 p.m. Sunday, February 26, 2017 at First Baptist Church in Palacios with the Rev. Hollis Hoffman and the Rev. Chris Webb officiating.

 Interment followed at Hawley Cemetery in Blessing, Texas.

Pallbearers were Michael Sheeran, Jacob Bear, Daniel Bear, Robert Young, Jerry Coufal and Dustin Ferguson.  Honorary pallbearers were J.A. Sheeran, Joseph Bear and Rudy Mosier.

In lieu of flowers, memorial can be made to First Baptist Palacios, 202 Main St., Palacios, Texas 77465 or Crown Hospice. 1101 Salem Rd., Victoria, Texas 77904.

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

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

Bay City Tribune, March 1, 2017

Mary Baines Sheeran
28 November 1920 – 23 February 2017

PALACIOS - Mary Baines Sheeran was born to Joseph Wilson Baines and Marianna Elder Baines on November 28, 1920 in Dallas, TX. She passed away on February 23, 2017 in Victoria, Texas at the age of 96.

Mary's Mother met with a tragic and untimely death when she was only 6 weeks old. Her Father felt it would be best for her to be raised by her Grandmother Mary H Elder and so Palacios, TX became her home. A wonderful group of aunts and uncles assisted in her upbringing.

She graduated from Palacios High School in 1938 and went on to receive her Bachelor's Degree from Baylor University and later her Masters from University of Houston. Mary had a true joy for teaching and taught English & History for 31 years in Palacios East Side Elementary. Her students were felt to be her extended family. She received numerous teaching awards and was active in Delta Kappa Gamma and was a President of TSTA (Matagorda County).

Mary married Arthur R. Sheeran in 1952 and they had 41 happy years of marriage until Arthur passed away in 1993. They had 4 children - Marianna, Hank, Vikijane and Ben. They both retired in 1981 and enjoyed extensive travel together to the Holy Land, Europe, Russia and the U.S.A. She later took each of her grandchildren (individually) on a special trip to a far-away place of their choosing.

Mary was a long time faithful member of First Baptist Church, Palacios where she taught Sunday School and served in many capacities. She later helped start up the Carancahua Chapel and she & Arthur attended many services there. Mary truly loved the Lord and served Him well.

Mary's other interests included sewing, bird watching, family camping, aerobics, reading and just being with people.

She is survived by her children and their spouses, Marianna Young (Dennis), Hank Sheeran (Kathy), Vikijane Moiser (Rudy), and Ben Sheeran (Evelyn), 7 grandchildren, 4 great grandchildren, one cousin, Cliff Rees, and numerous friends. She was predeceased by her husband and one Grandson, J A Sheeran.

The family wishes to thank the staffs of Trinity Shores (Pt. Lavaca), Twin Pines (Victoria) and Crown Hospice for the loving care they gave Mother in her final years.

The family will receive friends and relatives 5:00-7:00pm Saturday, February 25 at Palacios Funeral Home. Services will be 2:00pm Sunday, February 26, 2017 at First Baptist Church Palacios with Rev. Hollis Hoffman and Rev. Chris Webb officiating. Interment will follow at Hawley Cemetery in Blessing, TX. Pallbearers are Michael Sheeran, Jacob Bear, Daniel Bear, Robert Young, Jerry Coufal and Dustin Ferguson. Honorary Pallbearers are J.A. Sheeran, Joseph Bear and Rudy Mosier.

In lieu of flowers, memorial can be made to First Baptist Palacios, 202 Main St., Palacios, TX 77465 or Crown Hospice 1101 Salem Rd., Victoria, TX 77904.

Victoria Advocate,  25 February 2017
 

Bobby Fred Skinner
November 21, 1937 - July 15, 2017

Bobby Fred Skinner was born November 21, 1937 to Leslie Izeral and Lina Fay Duncan Skinner. He put up a valiant battle against Multiple Myeloma and went to be with his Savior on July 15, 2017.

Bob was born in Port Arthur, TX and moved to the Houston area as a young boy. He graduated from Aldine High School in 1956. He worked most of his adult life for Celanese Chemical Company in Bay City. He was a member of The First Baptist Church of Bay City. He retired in 1995. For most of the 20 years after his retirement, he and his wife, Nancy, toured the United States and Canada in their RV. He belonged to three RV clubs, The Traveling Supremes, the Rice Belt Sams, and the Jolly Good Sams. He also belonged to the Log Cabin Square Dance Club. He made many friends through these clubs.

In 2008, he moved to the small town of Blooming Grove. He joined Central Baptist Church. He built a barndomenium that he and his wife designed.

Bobby is survived by his wife, Nancy Keith Skinner; his son and daughter-in-law, Dwayne and Melanie Skinner of Bryan, TX; daughters and sons-in-law, Deborah Schwartz and Bill of Conroe, Leslie and Dennis Gann of Bay City, TX; and his brother, Joe E. Skinner and wife Linda of The Woodlands, TX. He is also survived by his step children, Craig and wife Nancy Hlavinka of Matagorda, TX and Tina and husband Bob Ortolan of Oakland Township, Michigan. He is survived by his grandchildren, Crystal and Chris Porter, Leanne and Captain Jeff Kocian, Bradley and Rachelle Schwartz, Lisa Skinner, Austin Skinner, Chloe Gann, and Collin Gann. He is survived by eight great grandchildren that he cherished. He was blessed by his youngest great grandson, being named after him.

He is preceded in death by his parents; his beloved grandson, Ryan Craig Standlee; and a nephew, Greg Skinner.

A visitation was held at Corley Chapel in Blooming Grove on Monday, July 17, 2017 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.

The funeral will be held at First Baptist Church in Bay City, TX on Wednesday, July 19, 2017 at 2 p.m. with visitation to be held prior.

Burial will be at Hawley Cemetery following the funeral.

Dr. Darren Heil and Dr. Michael Zimmerman will officiate.

Pallbearers will be Dwayne Skinner, Craig Hlavinka, Bob Ortolan, Bradley Schwartz, Austin Skinner, Captain Jeff Kocian, Christ Porter, Dennis Gann, and Collin Gann.

Honorary Pallbearers will be the Celanese retirees.

In lieu of flowers, gifts may be made to the building fund of Central Baptist Church of Blooming Grove or an organization of your choice.

An online guest book is available at www.corleyfuneralhome.com and by selecting the Bobby Fred Skinner obituary.

Bay City Tribune, Wednesday, July 19, 2017

Dorothy Jean Sliva
(March 20, 1930 - April 5, 2017)

Ailene Adams Smith
June 16, 1924 - March 6, 2017

Ailene (Adams) Smith, 92, of Madisonville, TX passed away on March 6, 2017 in Huntsville, TX.

Graveside services are scheduled for Friday, March 17, 2017 at 2 p.m. at Cedarvale Cemetery in Bay City, TX with Gregory Jackson officiating.

Ailene was born on June 16, 1924 in Beaumont, TX to Marcus and Elizabeth (Davett) Adams.

She was preceded in death by her parents; and her husband, Charles Leroy (C.L.) Smith.

Ailene enjoyed rural life, hunting, fishing, and homemaking with a special interest in cooking and sewing.  She was a Sunday school teacher for some forty years and was a member of the First Baptist Church of Bay City.  Ailene was a loyal and dedicated mother, grandmother, and great grandmother.  In her last years, she was a dedicated prayer warrior.  Ailene never failed to face life’s difficulties head on, always moving forward in faith, trusting in God.

Ailene is survived by her daughter, Charlene Ellisor and her husband Norman; her grandchildren, Stacey Jackson and husband Gregory, and Angela Ramsey and her husband Tim; great grandchildren, Danielle Gilbert and her husband Seth, Dustin Jackson, Makenzie Ramsey, Stormie Ramsey, and Piper Ramsey; her step-son, John Smith; and a host of nieces and nephews.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to The First Baptist Church of Bay City or The First Baptist Church of Van Vleck.

Bay City Tribune, March 12, 2017                Photo courtesy of Susie Adkins

Christine Portia Smith
July 25, 1923 - April 21, 2017

Funeral services Christine Portia Smith, 93, of Bay City, Texas will be Saturday, April 29, 2017 at 11 a.m. at Mother Zion Missionary Baptist Church with the Rev. Murray G Martin officiating.

Burial will follow immediately after services at Eastview Cemetery.

Visitation will be Friday, April 28, 2017 from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Green's Mortuary Chapel.

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

Online condolences may be sent to greensmortuary.com.

Bay City Tribune, April 26, 2017
 

JoAnne S. Smith
March 22, 1936 - April 21, 2017

JoAnne S. Smith, 81, of Van Vleck, Texas passed away on April 21, 2017.

She was born March 22, 1936 in Melbourne, Florida.

She was a loving wife, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother. She enjoyed lounging on the beach and spending time with her family. She was a member of The First Baptist Church in Van Vleck, Texas.

Joanne is survived by her loving husband, Elby Smith; her three children and their spouses, Tamra and Jack Robertson, Leia and David Miller, Brian and Jennifer Smith; nine grandchildren and their spouses, Amber and Joe Squires, Kelly and Luis Quintana, Randa and Christian Walker, Briana Smith, Makena Smith, Jacob Ottis, Matthew Ottis, James Michael Price, Katie Rose Price.

A memorial service will be held at 1 p.m., Saturday, April 29, 2017 at The First Baptist Church in Van Vleck, Texas.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to Hospice Support, Inc., P.O. Box 1417, El Campo, Texas 77437, www.hospice supportinc.org or First Baptist Church, P.O. Box 541, Van Vleck, Texas 77482.

Bay City Tribune, April 23, 2017
 

James Edward Sneed
August 27, 1954 ~ August 31, 2017

James Edward Sneed was born on August 27, 1954, to Charlie Moses Sneed, Sr. and Thelma Austin Sneed.  He passed away at his home in Bay City, Texas on August 31, 2017.

James attended public school at Bay City High School.  After graduation he enlisted in the United States Air Force and was stationed in Tucson, Arizona.  After his Honorable Discharge he returned to Texas.

James was preceded in death by his parents, Charlie and Thelma Sneed; three sisters, Joean Sneed White, Irener Sneed Gardner, and Marjorie Sneed Daranda; three brothers, Arvester Lent Sneed, Freddie Lewis Austin, Sr.; and Darryl Lynn Sneed.

He leaves to Cherish his memories four brothers, Charlie Moses Sneed, Jr. of Bay City, Leonard Ray Sneed of El Paso, Charles Sneed (Debra) and Ronald Dywane Sneed both of Bay City; two sisters, Bernice Sneed Bass (Terry) and Mary Sneed Green (Sonny) both of Bay City; seven nephews, Richard Lewis Moran (Dawn) of Seattle, Washington, Freddie Lewis Austin, J r. of Houston, Darnell Sneed of Bay City, Derrick Sneed of Giddens, Terry Bass II (Alicia) of Clute, Jeremiah Bass of Lake Jackson, and Anthony Daranda of Bay City; six nieces, Brenda Sneed Clay (Cord) of Bay City, Lakeshia Sneed of Bay City, Latavia Sneed of Freeport, Nieshia Sneed, Zipporah Bass both of Dallas, Latasha Times of Bay City; and a host of other relatives and friends.

Green’s Mortuary, Bay City, Texas                    Photos courtesy of Faye Cunningham

Sybil Laurel Sprouse
(June 1, 1944 - April 22, 2017)

Sybil Laurel Sprouse, 72, of Blessing, Texas passed away on April 22, 2017. She was born on June 1, 1944 in Utila, Honduras to the late Isaac Bush, Sr. and Adeline Williams Bush.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her brother Owen Bush of Abbeville, LA.

She is survived by and lovingly remembered by her husband Fred Sprouse of Blessing, TX; daughter Gwen Devillier Nohra of Darrow, LA; sons Jon Timothy Williams & wife Christy of Krotz Springs, LA and Danny Williams of Jarreau, LA; sisters Amy Jones, Nellie Ann Bush, Annie Bush and Jenny Olin; brothers Isaac Bush, Jr., Frederick Bush, Donny Bush, Hubert Bush, Robbie Bush and Andy Bush; grandchildren Regan Nohra, Kari Nohra, Megan Williams Gates, Clair Williams and Jarrod Williams; great grandchildren Daxton and Timothy as well as a host of nieces and nephews.

Taylor Bros. Funeral Home
 

Bay City Tribune, April 9, 2017
 

Daniel Lee Stavena
April 14, 1933 - September 11, 2017

Daniel Stavena, 84, of Bay City, passed away on Monday, September 11, 2017. He was born on April 14, 1933 in Fayetteville, Texas , he was the third child of 13 born to the late Ludwig and Annie Novosad Stavena.

Daniel was very active at Holy Cross Catholic Church. He served as a CCD teacher, and Eucharistic Minister, Altar Server and Lector. Dan was in Insurance Sales and was an active member of the Bay City A.C.T.S. movement.

Daniel is survived by his loving family; his wife of 63 years Dorothy Stavena; children Teresa Lamb (Bobby), Karen Zarate (Ricky) and David Stavena; Grandchildren; Connie Lamb, Stephanie Lamb, Amy Finster, Erica Lamb, Dylan Stavena, Michael Finster, and Shelby Stavena; Seven great grandchildren; Anita Acosta, Chasity Fisher, Robert Acosta, Kirra Schneider, Liam Acosta, Jace Acosta, and Ava Rudolph. Brothers; James, Patrick and Gilbert; and sisters Bernice Novosad and Clara Chumchal. He is preceded in death by his parents; sisters Estella Keeler, Dorothy Goff, Elizabeth Ingle, Margaret Ann Worthy, and by his brothers; Arnold, Leonard, Norbert.

The family will receive friends and relatives 5:00-8:00 P.M. Thursday, September 14 at the funeral home. The recitation of the Holy Rosary will be 9:30 A.M. Friday, September 15, 2017 at Holy Cross Church. Mass of the Resurrection will follow the Rosary with Father Greg Korenek celebrant. The Rite of Committal will follow at Roselawn Memorial Park.

Taylor Bros. Funeral Home            Photo courtesy of Faye Cunningham

Ethel G. Stephens


Ralph W. Stephens

Photos courtesy of Faye Cunningham
 

James Allen Stephens
April 5, 1938 - March 18, 2017

James Allen Stephens, 78, passed away at his home surrounded by family on March 18, 2017.

Jim was born on April 5, 1938 in Bixby, OK, grew up in Cherry Valley, AR and later moved with his family to Bay City, TX. Jim was a heavy equipment operator for over 40 years and was skilled in operating all types of machinery. He could build and repair any imaginable item. His gardening skills were unmatched and no one had a greener thumb. Jim's favorite times were spent with family and friends barbequing at his home. He was the patriarch of the Stephens and Tweedle families.

Jim married Betty Ellen Tweedle on July 30, 1960 in Bay City, TX. He as father to Phyllis Longoria (Jesse), Bill Stephens (Alice) and Susan Meyer (Glenn). Jim was the BEST GRANDFATHER to six grandchildren, Robert Torres, Brittany Stephens, James Stephens, Jess Longoria, Mason Meyer and Madison Meyer. He had three great grandchildren, Mark Anthony, Aaliyah and Penelope.

He was preceded in death by his father and mother, Winfred and Chalice Stephens; three brothers, Earl, Johnny and W.C. Stephens.

He is survived by his wife of 56 years; his children and grandchildren; as well as one sister, Mollie May (Norman); one brother, Claude Stephens (Dianne); and three sisters-in-law, Nora Stephens, Claudia Jarrell (Milton) and Peggy Cram (Russell).

A memorial service will be held at St. Paul's United Methodist Church, 3102 5th Street, Bay City, TX on Saturday, March 25, 2017 at 10 a.m. with the Rev. Bill Ramsey officiating.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Jim's favorite charity, St. Jude Children's Hospital or the charity of your choice.

Bay City Tribune, March 22, 2017
 

Hugh William "Bill" Strickland, Jr.
May 23, 1939 - March 5, 2017

Hugh William "Bill" Strickland, Jr. experienced his heavenly birth on March 5, 2017.

Bill was born in Bay City, Texas on May 23, 1939 to Hugh William Strickland and Sylvia M. Boney Strickland.

He is survived by his wife, Anna; four daughters, Deborah Martinez (Woody), Sherri Cook (Doug), Shelly Straub (Andy), Lauren Doan Cutrone (Cameron); two step children, Heather Zittle and Johnnie “Bubba” Zittle;  two sisters, Sue “Suzy” Strickland Romberg (Arnold), Ann Strickland Sherrer; brother, Mike Strickland (Sandy); Eleven Grandchildren; and Six Great Grandchildren.

Bill was preceded in death by his parents, Hugh and Sylvia; brother-in-law, John Sherrer; previous wife, Linda Doan; and grandson, Cory Choate.

Bill graduated from Lamar High School and received his degree in Business Administration from Baylor University where he was a member of Delta Sigma Pi.  Bill served his Country in the U. S. Army and Air Force Reserves and was honorably discharged in 1969.

Bill was a licensed real estate broker, mortgage broker and real estate developer.  He worked for the Texas Savings & Loan Commissioner and then went into business buying, selling and developing real estate.

Bill resided in New Braunfels, Texas and moved to the Rio Grande Valley (Harlingen) where he continued building, and he and Anna began their life together, he retired and moved back to Bay City where he enjoyed spending time with family and friends, participating in trade days around the state and cooking/eating barbecue.  Bill loved his Lord and Savior and he volunteered at the local Food Pantries.

A celebration of Bill’s life will be held Saturday, March 18, 2017 at 2 p.m. at Peace Lutheran Church, 1147 Walnut Ave., New Braunfels, Texas.

In lieu of flowers the family has requested a memorial be made to Peace Lutheran Church or a charity of choice.

Bay City Tribune, March 12, 2017
 

Docia Marie Stuber

Memorial services for Docia Marie Stuber, 75, of Bay City, Texas will be Friday, October 6, 2017, at 10 a.m. in the chapel of Green's Mortuary with Dr. T. L. Richardson officiating.

Final arrangements are entrusted with Green's Mortuary, Bay City, Texas; online condolences may be sent to greensmortuary.com.

Bay City Tribune, October 4, 2017

Docia Marie Stuber
September 14, 1942 – September 27, 2017

Docia Marie Stuber was born on September 14, 1942, to Emmett Leon “Lee” Lucas and Ellen Irene Ming LeCompte, in Dallas, Texas.

Her earthly journey came to an end on Wednesday, September  27, 2017 surrounded by her family.  She is preceded in death by her husband, Joseph Patrick Stuber; father, Emmett Lucas; mother and step-father, Ellen and Joseph J. LeCompte; and nephew, Gary.

She is survived by her children, Mona Lee Heinz Trimyer Smith of Bay City, Texas, Janet Lynn Freeman and husband Paul of Kiowa, Oklahoma, and Lisa Irene Zortman and husband of Virginia; eight grandchildren; twenty-one great-grandchildren;  brother, Larry LeCompte and wife Barbara of Freeport and their children, Pat, Larry Jr. and Jerry Don.

Green’s Mortuary, Bay City, Texas
 

Luis Rubio Sustaita
June 26, 1997 - July 10, 2017

Luis Rubio Sustaita, 20, of Albert Lee, Minnesota passed assay July 10, 2017. He was born June 26, 1997.

Survivors include his mother Maria Munoz and sisters Paola Rubio and Christina Rubio.

A rosary will be recited at 6:00 PM Sunday, July 16, 2017 at Taylor Bros. Funeral Home. Funeral Mass will be 10:00 AM Monday, July 17, 2017 at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church with Msgr. Gerry Cernoch officiating. Interment will follow at Cedarvale Cemetery. Pallbearers will be Alberto Gutierrez, Jose Sustaita, Dario Sustaita, Elias Sandoval, Alfredo Paniagua, Manuel Moreno and Luis Gutierrez.

Taylor Bros. Funeral Home                     Marker photo courtesy of Faye Cunningham

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