Matagorda County Obituaries
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Fred L. Sailor
September 03, 1943 - July 29, 2017

Fred Sailor, a Nebraska native who got to Texas as soon as he discovered the warm weather here, passed away at the age of 73 on Saturday July 29, 2017 with his domestic partner, Eileen at his side, after succumbing to cancer. He was born September 3, 1943 to Dwight and Irene Sailor in Valentine, NE. He grew up in Beatrice, NE where he spent most of his school years with his siblings, Brenda, Ray and JoDee.

He joined the Marines in 1961 and was stationed in Twenty-nine Palms, CA and Okinawa, Japan. He served as a field artillery fire control man in the 3rd 8” howitzer battery where he obtained the rank of Corporal.

Fred worked for the municipality of Beatrice and Lincoln, NE before moving to Austin, TX where he worked as a supervisor for the City of Austin Water & Wastewater Utility for 23 years before retiring in 1998.

Fred enjoyed many different and diverse activities including bowling, “working” at Renaissance Fests, tinkering on old cars, trucks and motorcycles, and riding his beloved Harley-Davidson. Through these activities he met and made many good friends.
In 1990 he met his beloved partner, Eileen Ackerman, who together shared lots of fun times and lasting memories whether it be camping, riding Harleys with the “Tacky Light Motorcycle Gang”, bowling on Thursday night league, working at Renaissance Fests or visiting and laughing with family and friends reliving the “old days”.
They moved to Eileen’s hometown of Blessing, TX in 2009 when she retired where they enjoyed a quieter life of fishing, gardening and renovating their home.

Fred is preceded in death by his parents Dwight Sailor and Irene Bower Sailor, brother Ray Sailor, nephews “Butch” Jenkin, Jr., Christopher Garcia and Brandon Hughes, brothers-in-law Ron Jenkin, Sr. and Larry Woods.

He is survived by his domestic partner of 24 years, Eileen Ackerman; sisters Brenda (John) Garcia, JoDee Woods and sister-in-law Marla Sailor.

He is also survived by many nieces and nephews: Rhonda Penner, Jon Jenkin, Mike, Todd and Michelle(Lisa Morphis) Garcia; Jill Graves, Jamie (Chris) Sutton, Jeramie (Sis)Barlett, Jimmie (Jennifer Jocobi) Bartlett, Lacee(Seth) Gonzales; Shoni (Rob) Baxa, Jason Sailor, Kylee (Adam) Hohbein; and great nieces and nephews: Nolan (Rachel) Penner, Molly and Riley Jenkin, Josh (Megan) and Nikki Garcia; Bayleigh Graves, Brittnie (Rick) Joyner, Justin (Alisha) Hughes, Alainye Schumacher, Savannah and Brayden Bartlett, Seth and Luke Gonzales; Tyler and Delaney Baxa, Bailey and Ainsley Sailor, Kason Verden, Ellee and Saige Hohbein and 11 great-great nieces and nephews.

He considered Eileen’s family as his own. He will be missed by her son, Dennis (Julie) Wesselman and their 2 daughters Erin and Lilli. Also, by Eileen’s sister, Gale Rush and her family: Amy (Robert) and their sons Robert and Andrew Perez; Cari (T.J.) and their sons Tyler and Taylor Englehardt. As well as Wayne (Brenda) Ackerman and their family: Cody (Tim) Janssen and their children Kate (Nat) Longoria and James Steffek; and Abby Ackerman and her 2 children Riley and Reed.

A celebration of Fred’s life will be held at Hawley Cemetery, Blessing, TX at 2 p.m. on August 12, 2017. Come prepared with memories and reflections and remember its August in Texas: dress comfortably!

Taylor Bros. Funeral Home
 


Clara Martinez Sanchez

April 25, 1956 – October 10, 2018

 

Clara Martinez Sanchez, 62, of Corpus Christi, TX passed away October 10, 2018. She was born April 25, 1956 in Bay City, TX to Alex Martinez and Margaret Rangel Barefield.

 

Clara loved to cook and it was always a big meal when she did! She was a very loving and giving person and you could always depend on her for a helping hand.

 

She is survived by her loving husband, William “Bill” Sanchez; daughters, Trisha Caluillo and Monique Martinez; son, Fred Martinez; parents, Eugene Barefield Sr. and Margaret R. Barefield; sisters, Mary Helen Martinez and Bertha Gohn; brothers, Abraham Garza and Eugene Barefield Jr.; uncle, Ray Rangel; aunt, Martha Rangel of Bay City; and seven grandchildren.

 

A Rosary was held Saturday, October 13, 2018 at 12:30 p.m. at Our Lady of the Gulf Catholic Church in Port Lavaca, TX, followed by a mass at 1 p.m.

 

In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be made to Our Lady of the Gulf.

 

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

 

Richardson Colonial Funeral Home

 


John H. Sanders

September 7, 1883 – June 6, 1950

 

J. H. Sanders Dies Suddenly Tuesday While Mowing Lawn

 

J. H. Sanders, yardman for K. D. Horton, died Tuesday afternoon at 6 o’clock while he was mowing a yard for Mr. Horton at 8th Street and Moore Avenue.

 

His death was apparently caused by a heart attack. He was between 60 and 65 years of age. Mr. Sanders lived at the Stafford House at 1845 6th Street.

 

Relatives have not been located yet. Taylor Brothers Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

 

The Daily Tribune, June 7, 1950

 

Lula “Tomi” Nixon Savage
March 26, 1939 - June 6, 2018

Lula “Tomi” Nixon Savage, 79, of Blessing, Texas passed away June 6, 2018.  She was born March 26, 1939 in Pottawatomie County, Oklahoma to the late Gerald Nixon and Mary Maxine Jolly Nixon.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Eddie “Doc” Savage; and siblings, Ronald Crouch and Shirley Lorance.

Survivors include daughters, Trish Smith (Joe Toria) and Monya Richards; son, Clay Clement; sisters and brothers, Margie Wright (Ronald), Marilyn Edlund (Mel), Sharon Franklin (Bill), Marshall Gail Crouch (Claudia), Fred Crouch, Darrell Crouch, and Wanda Brown (James); sister-in-law, Brenda Miller; grandchildren, Sabrina Albert, Barry Robertson, Ronny Smith, Taffany Sullivan (Jeremy), Travis Beauvais, Cassie Housley, Lee Clement (Adina Odom) and Tommy Smith (Kim); 17 great ; and one great-great grandchild.

The family would like to send a special thank you to Juanita Gonzalez for the love and care you have shown to our mother.

Her life will be celebrated at a memorial service at 3 p.m. Monday, June 11, 2018 at Taylor Bros. Funeral Home in Bay City, Texas with Fr. James Ramsey officiating.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the Alzheimer’s Association at www.alz.org or the charity of your choice.

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

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

Bay City Tribune, June 10, 2018
 


Martha Jane Schimek
November 18, 1924 - October 18, 2018

Martha Jane Schimek breathed her last breath on earth on October 18, 2018. She is now at peace in heaven and fully renewed in spirit. She was born Martha Johanna Hejtmanek on November 18, 1924 in El Maton, TX to Frank Joseph Hejtmanek and Albina Wetzel Hejtmanek.

At the age of four, her family moved to Ashby, TX, which Martha Jane recently referred to as 'my stomping grounds'. She attended school there until she went to Blessing High School, from which she graduated near the top of her class in 1942. Martha Jane moved to Bay City in early 1943. On September 8, 1943, she married Ottmar Schimek. In later years, Martha Jane worked at a few places, the longest as a secretary at Central Power and Light Company. After retiring in 1973, she volunteered with the Salvation Army store in Bay City. Over the years, she helped to care for family members and friends.

Martha Jane's parents were active in the Evangelical Czech-Moravian Brethren (now called The Unity of the Brethren in Texas) church, which her father helped to organize the local congregation. Martha Jane (and later Ottmar) continued to be active in that denomination until about 1953, when they joined First Presbyterian Church in Bay City. She was busy and an involved member, including being an elder, visiting, and being active in the Women of the Church.

Martha Jane was proud of her and Ottmar's Czech heritage, and provided extended family with genealogical information that she gathered. Martha Jane and Ottmar were able to make several trips to visit relatives in the Czech Republic. Her grandchildren and great-grandchildren enjoyed going to her house where they enjoyed her wonderful cooking, especially her delicious kolache'.

She spoke frequently of fond memories of her teachers and schoolmates, and worked to put together class/school reunions over the years. They were a very close-knit group.

She is survived by children, Janice Corporon (Russell) of Citrus Grove, TX, Ottmar Schimek Jr. (Joanna) of Anahuac, TX, and Sylvia Huey (Jimmy) of Bay City, TX; grandchildren, Kimberly Stewart (Curtis), Todd Corporon, Taylor Schimek (Erika), John Wheeler (Candice), Daniel Wheeler (Corrie), Meredith Schimek, Stephen Huey (Stephanie), and John Huey (Laura); 22 great-grandchildren; numerous nieces and nephews, including her God-children, Shirley Bryson, Karen Howery and Sandra Jurek. She is also survived by a sister-in-law, Irene (Jim) Schlueter.

Martha Jane was preceded in death by her husband of 70 years; her parents; five siblings, Anna Mae Jurek, Georgia Lostak, Alice Jurek, Frank Hejtmanek and George Hejtmanek; and great-granddaughter, Hadlee Wheeler

Pallbearers will be Kimberly Stewart, Todd Corporon, Taylor Schimek, Stephen Huey, John Wheeler, John Huey, Daniel Wheeler and Meredith Schimek.

Honorary pallbearers will be Jud Austin, Clyde Workman, Tom Uher, Gene Klepac, Greg Westmoreland, Crayden Dennard, nieces and nephews.

We would like to thank her special friend, Vera Perez, and the staff of Matagorda Nursing and Rehabilitation for their care of her in her later years.

Visitation was held Sunday, October 21, 2018 from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. at Taylor Bros. Funeral Home in Bay City.

Funeral services were held Monday, October 22, 2018 at 10 a.m. at First Presbyterian Church in Bay City with the Rev. Wilma Harris officiating.

Burial followed at Hawley Cemetery near Blessing, TX.

Contributions could be made to Hus Encampment Building Fund (c/o Todd Corporon, 5350 CR 124, Georgetown, TX 78626, First Presbyterian Church of Bay City, or charity of your choice.

Bay City Tribune, October 24, 2018
 


Dorothy Jean Sedlacek

Dorothy Jean Sedlacek, 87, of Galveston, passed away Wednesday, October 10, 2018, at UTMB Hospital.  She was born March 23, 1931, in Ganado, TX.  Dorothy was an active member of Holy Cross Catholic Church in Bay City for many years, where she also taught catechism.  More recently, she was a long-time active member of St. Patrick Catholic Church, where she served as a eucharistic minister.  Dorothy’s family and the Catholic sorority, KJZT, were the central focus of her life.  She was also a lifelong Astros fan.

Dorothy was preceded in death by her husband, Clifton Sedlacek, and all of her eleven siblings.

She is survived by her children: Larry Sedlacek and wife, Leah; Mary Ann Welch; Carol Jean Garner; and Cynthia Kay Redman and husband, John; six grandchildren; seven great grandchildren; and numerous other relatives and friends.

Dorothy’s family will receive visitors beginning at 9:00 am, Monday, October 15, at Malloy & Son Funeral Home.  A funeral service will begin at 10:30 am with graveside service at 3:00 pm Monday at Hawley Cemetery in Blessing, TX.

Malloy & Son Funeral Home, Galveston, Texas
 


Jeri Callihan Schultz

Jeri Callihan Schultz, 90, of Palacios, passed away on Monday, October 15, 2018. She was born October 1, 1928 in South Houston, TX. She is preceded in death by her husband, the late Tommy Schultz of Palacios, whom she married January 16, 1948.  She is the daughter of the late Gerald Callihan and Mollie Meredith of Houston. She was a member of the Carancahua Community Church.

Jeri is the beloved mother of three children, Karen Hadaway and her husband Ray of Iola, TX, Ron Schultz of Palacios, and Tess Flores and her husband Steve of Palacios. She is also survived by her grandchildren Shannon Palmer of Conroe, Reagan Hadaway of Oceanside, CA, Amanda Schultz of Houston, Gordon Schultz of Houston, Lauren Norris and husband Bradley of Sealy, and Kimberlee Savage of Bay City.  Her great-grandchildren are Marshall Palmer, Nolan Palmer, Nova, Cruz and Roxy Gano, Kaden and Austin Morales, Bentley and Aubree Savage, Able and Sawyer Schultz.

Jeri is known for her quick wit and was loved by all her knew her. She is a descendant of Thomas Jefferson Callihan who fought at the Battle of San Jacinto and she was awaiting her membership in the Daughters of the Republic of Texas.  She loved baking, fishing and camping.  Jeri was an accomplished seamstress and her gift for creating beauty from fabric and yarn is legend.  She also has made thousands of cross-stitched crosses that have been gifted to churches around the world.  The Huggy Bears that she created and gave to police departments helped calm children in bad situations.  Her contributions will be sorely missed.

The family will receive friends and relatives 5:00-7:00pm Thursday, October 25th at Palacios Funeral Home. Services are 11:00am Friday, October 26, 2018 at Palacios Funeral Home with Rev. Bob Keprta officiating. Interment will follow at the Palacios Cemetery. Pallbearers will be: Ray Hadaway, Steve Flores, Johnny Lloyd, David Anthony, Danny Jessup and Jerry Adelman. Music will be provided by David Thigpen and Ray Hadaway.  If you prefer, in lieu of flowers donations to the Carancahua Community Church can be made in her name.

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

Taylor Bros. Funeral Home
 


Bud Schulz
March 06, 1940 - October 17, 2018

On October 17, 2018, Gail “Bud” Austin Schulz, 78, gained his heavenly reward. Bud was born March 6, 1940 in Mesa, AZ, the son of Frances and Fay Schulz.

Bud was married in 1960 to Patricia Walker Schulz, and enjoyed 49 years of marriage. He spent many years as a cotton, alfalfa and wheat farmer in the Buckeye, AZ area, as well as owning a commercial hog farm, managed the LDS church farm and managed the farming operations for Steve Bales Farms. In 1984 he and his family began a herbicide spraying business in Bay City, Texas. He later proudly served as the Supervisor of Matagorda County Drainage District from 1990 to 2008, along with maintaining the Bay City Cemetery from 1995 to present. Bud was a hard worker and always took pride in anything he did, never backing down from new challenges or new technology in equipment. His love of family was evident in his eyes any time he was in their presence and his family adored him. He had exacting standards that he placed on himself and strived to always be a representation of what was good in this world. He will be remembered always with love and affection.

In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by a brother, Bradley Schulz, sisters, Shirley Scarborough and Peggy Robidoux. He is survived by his children, Greg (Nikki) Schulz of Amarillo, TX; Wyatt (Beverly) Schulz of Bay City, TX; Wade (Tonya) Schulz of Bay City, TX; Tammie (Greg) Mitchell of Vidor, TX; 13 grandchildren Greg Schulz Jr of Wild Peach, TX; Chad Schulz (Shawnee) of Glendale, AZ; Ethan, Alea and Madeline Smith of Amarillo, TX; Jared Schulz of Austin TX; Allison Schulz of Seattle WA; Pruett, Jenna, and Olivia Schulz of Bay City, TX; Austin Cameron of San Marcos, TX; Erin Alvarado of Galveston, TX; Kelsie Mitchell of Nederland, TX; Chandler Mitchell of Galveston, TX; Sean Mitchell of Nederland, TX; and Travis Mitchell of Vidor, TX; Sisters Debbie Marlow of Vancouver, WA and Ramal Ciruli of Buckeye, AZ. Great grandchildren Emily and Audrey Schulz, Michael, Sky, Tony, Rose and David Schulz; Madisyn, Ayden, Lilyana Alvarado; Kyleigh Rodriguez, Aiden Weldon, Atticus Cambell.

A memorial service will be held Monday, October 22nd, 3:00 pm at Taylor Brothers Funeral Home in Bay City, TX.

Taylor Bros. Funeral Home         Photo courtesy of Faye Cunningham


 


Patricia Ann Walker Schulz

March 21, 1943 – March 16, 2019

 

On March 16, 2019, Patricia “Pat, Patsy” Ann Walker Schulz, 75, passed away in Kerrville, Texas.

 

Pat was born March 21, 1943, in Binger, Oklahoma to Mack and Daisy Walker. The family later moved to Williams, Arizona. It was here that she met and married Gail (Bud) Schulz in July 1960. They were married for 49 years, raising three sons, one daughter and one grandson.

 

Bud, Pat and their four children moved from Buckeye, Arizona to Bay City, Texas in 1984 to begin a spraying and mowing business. She later moved to Bandera, Texas to enjoy life in the Hill Country.

 

Pat was a hair stylist for most of her adult life, working in many different salons, and often running her own business from home. She enjoyed serving her clients and family, taking great pride in her work. She was also able to realize a life-long dream of owning a restaurant when she and Bud opened the Yellow Rose Café in Van Vleck, Texas.

 

She is preceded in death by her parents, and 10 siblings.

 

Pat is survived by her children: Greg (Nikki) Schulz, Wyatt (Beverly) Schulz, Wade (Tonya) Schulz, and Tammie (Greg) Mitchell; 16 grandchildren, 12 great-grandchildren; along with numerous nieces and nephews.

 

There will be a Memorial Service held at Cedarvale Cemetery in Bay City, Texas on May 11, 2019, at 11:00 AM, where she will be laid to rest.

 

The Daily Tribune, May 8, 2019                    Photo courtesy of Faye Cunningham

 

 


Alice Mae Senkyrik
October 30, 1924 - September 23, 2018

Alice Mae (Susie) Senkyrik, 93, formerly of Van Vleck, TX, answered our Lord’s call on September 23, 2018. She faced and survived many battles in her long life. These included numerous cancers, heart disease, and diabetes. She was immobile after a broken hip, resulting in heart problems and kidney failure.

She was born October 30, 1924 to Edward and Elizabeth “Betty” (Gurecky) Popek. She never met a stranger and always had a ready smile and laugh for those who filled her life.

She was a graduate of Van Vleck High School. She met and married Louis J. Senkyrik in 1946 and had one son, Louis J. (LJ) Senkyrik, Jr. The couple owned and operated Senkyrik’s Grocery and Feed Store for many years. She was a dedicated wife and mother. She loved to crochet, knit, and cross-stitch. She also dabbled in painting. Both her husband and son fought for our country. Her husband served in World War II, her son served in Vietnam. She cared for an amputee husband and a son affected by “Agent Orange” without complaint. She was an active member of the VFW, crocheting many “booties” for the servicemen overseas. She was currently a resident of Carmine, TX.

She is preceded in death by her parents Ed and Betty Popek; husband Louis J. Senkyrik, and son Louis J. Senkyrik, Jr. She is survived by grandsons Louis J. Senkyrik III and Renee of Lufkin, TX, and Eric Senkyrik and Susie of Lufkin, TX; grandchildren Diesel, Hailey and Eric, Jr.; brother Ralph Popek and Barbara of Van Vleck; sister Loraine Naiser of San Marcos, and several nieces, nephews, great nieces and great nephews.

The visitation and funeral Mass will be September 29, 2018 at Holy Cross Catholic Church in Bay City, TX. Visitation begins at 9:00am, followed by Mass at 10:00am. Interment will follow at Roselawn Memorial Park in Van Vleck.

Bay City Tribune, September 30, 2018                  Photo courtesy of Faye Cunningham


Louis Jerry “Sonny” Senkyrik Jr.
November 9, 1946 - May 13, 2018

Louis Jerry “Sonny” Senkyrik Jr. was born on November 9, 1946 in Bay City, TX and went to be with The Lord on May 13, 2018.

Sonny served in the U.S. Army, he was a Green Beret and served in Vietnam from 1968-1969. Sonny was a retired welder who traveled all over the US with his work. Sonny was a loving son, father and grandfather. He loved his family very much! He always wanted the best for them.

Sonny was preceded in death by his father, Louis Jerry Senkyrik Sr.

He is survived by his mother, Alice Mae Senkyrik of Carmine, TX; sons, Louis Jerry Senkyrik III and wife Renee, and Eric Senkyrik Sr. and wife Susie of Lufkin; grandchildren, Eric Senkyrik Jr., Hailey Senkyrik, and Diesel Stanaland and fiancé Natalie Fuentes of Lufkin, TX; aunts, uncles, cousins; Marvin Kristynik and wife Betty; and special family friends, Gary and Bo Mueller of Carmine, TX.

Funeral services will be at 2 p.m. Thursday, May 17, 2018 at Taylor Bros. Funeral Home in Bay City.

Bay City Tribune, May 16, 2018               Photo courtesy of Faye Cunningham


 


Loretta Ethel Shepard

August 29, 1926 - May 07, 2018

 

Loretta Ethel Shepard, 91, passed away May 7, 2018. She was born August 29, 1926 in Oklahoma to the late Marion Levi Wheat and Eula Mae Davis Wheat.

She retired as Postmaster at the Cedar Lane Post Office and was a member of the Pink Ladies Auxiliary at Matagorda General Hospital for over 20 years. Loretta enjoyed square dancing. She was very active in her church until her health began to prevent her from being so.

She was preceded in death by her husband H. H. Shepard in 1991.

Survivors include daughter Kathryn Smith of Bay City; sisters Edna Mae Davis of Angleton and Leona Zamora of California; grandchildren Amanda Garcia, Angie Kovacs and Anthony Kovacs; great grandchildren Jaclyn Deavers, Miranda Davis and Shelby Davis and great-great grandchild Pierce Deavers.

Visitation will begin at 8:30 am Friday, May 11, 2018 at Cedar Lane Baptist Church. Funeral service will begin at 10:00 AM with Rev. Mike Patterson officiating. Interment will follow at Sweeny Cemetery.

Taylor Bros. Funeral Home, Bay City, Texas
 


John Albert Sliva
April 7, 1924 - May 29, 2018

John Albert Sliva, 94, of Palacios, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, May 29, 2018. He was born April 7, 1923 in Wallis, Texas to the late Edward Sliva and Mary (Kuchera) Sliva.

John served in the U.S. Army during World War II and was awarded the bronze star medal. He was a retired farmer who spent many years farming and ranching in Matagorda County alongside his late wife, Dorothy Sliva.

John was preceded in death by his loving wife of 69 years, Dorothy Jean Sliva, and his siblings, Edward B. Sliva, Elija Sliva, Bessie Marek, and Edith Watson.

He is survived by his daughters Betty Ross (Fortune) and Linda Biskup (Adolph); grandchildren Chris Sexton (Greg), Jennifer Montague, Cathy Rickaway (Kevin), Mark Biskup (Susan), Jeff Biskup (Terrie), and Steven Biskup (Vicki); great grandchildren Gregory Sexton (Jessica), Katelyn Sexton, Johnathan, Luke, and Blaike Montague, Jordan and Taylor Rickaway, Makayla and Tori Biskup, Sara and Brian Biskup, Adam and Chance Biskup, and great-great grandchild Cason Biskup; Siblings Tony Sliva (Hazel) and Vicki Garcia (David), and numerous nieces and nephews.

A memorial service is being planned to celebrate John’s life. Service and burial will be held at Hawley Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to be made in John’s name to Houston Hospice – El Campo.

Taylor Bros. Funeral Home
 


Forrest Smith

July 24 1913 – April 27, 1932

 

Young Farmer at Midfield Meets with Tragic Death

 

Forrest Smith Crushed Under Wagon Load of Wood.

Team Frightened and Bridge Breaks With Wagon and Load.

 

Our community was shocked at the tragic death of Forrest Smith, which occurred last Wednesday afternoon. He was driving a team of mules hitched to a wagon loaded with posts and when crossing a bridge across Juanita creek near the home of Mr. F. Cornelius, the bridge collapsed, resulting in the young man being buried in the water under the wreckage of both the load and team. One mule was killed and the other crippled. The accident was not discovered until Thursday afternoon, but indications were that the young man’s death was instantaneous, as he had been struck in the head, both front and back. The body was carried to the undertaker’s establishment in Bay City and prepared for burial, interment taking place Saturday afternoon. The youth was seventeen-years of age, son of Mrs. S. E. Smith, who moved into our community from Markham last year and leaves several sisters and brothers besides his mother, to grieve over his passing. The deepest sympathy of our entire community is extended this family in this tragic hour of sorrow.

 

Midfield News, May 5, 1932

 

One of the most peculiar of accidents to be recorded here in a long time was the one which took the life of young Forrest Smith, a nineteen-year-old son of Mrs. S. E. Smith, who with her children is engaged in farming on the C. E. Welsh farm near Midfield, Wednesday evening.

 

As well as the tragedy can be pieced together, it appears that young Smith was catapulted from the bridge over a narrow ravine with team, wagon and load, about ten feet below. The horse was killed, while the young mule, which was being broken, was found unhurt in the ravine, but entirely free of his harness. Young Smith was found with his head under the load and in shallow water. His body was free.

 

It is thought that the young man, who was taking a load of posts from the Cornelius home to erect a fence on the farm reached the bridge around noon Wednesday and in crossing, the load being too heavy for the frail bridge, it broke in the middle and team, wagon and all fell through.

 

Thinking the young man had decided to remain at the Cornelius house for the night, his absence gave no concern to his mother and the family. The next morning some Negroes discovered the wreck and the lifeless body of the young farmer.

 

Forrest is survived by his mother, Mrs. S. E. Smith, four sisters and five brothers, all of whom are at home.

 

The funeral arrangements are being attended to by the Walker-Matchett Company of this city.

 

Funeral services were conducted from the Methodist Church Saturday afternoon at 2:30 o’clock, with burial in Cedarvale immediately thereafter.

 

Matagorda County Tribune, May 5, 1932

 


Jewel Smith

Jewel Smith, 90, of Bay City, Texas passed away Friday, April 27, 2018 in Port Arthur, Texas surrounded by her family.

Funeral services will be at 11 a.m. Saturday, May 5, 2018 at Mother Zion Missionary Baptist Church, with visitation from 9 a.m. until service time.

Burial will follow in East View Cemetery in Bay City, Texas under the direction of Gabriel Funeral Home, 2500 Procter Street, Port Arthur, Texas; 409-983-6661.

Bay City Tribune, May 2, 2018           Photo courtesy of Faye Cunningham


 


 

Mike Smith

Eastview Cemetery

Photo courtesy of
Faye Cunningham


Charles Michael Sneed

Funeral services for Charles Michael Sneed, 59, of Bay City, Texas will be Saturday, May 12, 2018 at 11 a.m. at Jesus Freewill Holy Church with Bishop Michael Hurst officiating.

Burial will follow immediately after services at Eastview Cemetery.

Visitation will be Friday, May 11, 2018 in the Chapel of Green's Mortuary from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m.

Final arrangements are entrusted with Greens Mortuary, Bay City, Texas; 979-245-3489; online condolences may be sent to greensmortuary.com.

Bay City Tribune, May 9, 2018           Photo courtesy of Faye Cunningham

Charles Michael Sneed
February 14, 1959 - May 1, 2018

On February 14, 1959, a baby boy was born to the late Charlie M. Sneed, Sr. and Thelma M. Austin. He was a member of the Church of Christ.

He graduated from Bay City High School in 1978 and retired from Texas Department of Criminal Justice after 20 years of service as a Sergeant.  In May of 1983 he was united in Holy Matrimony to Debra Walker. To this union three children were born.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Charlie M. Sneed, Sr. and Thelma M. Austin; four brothers and three sisters.

He leaves to cherish his precious memories to his wife, Debra Sneed; two sons, Darnell L. Sneed of Bay City, Texas and Derrick R. Sneed of Giddings, one daughter, Brenda Clay (Cord) of Bay City, Texas; one nephew, Richard Morgan (Dawn) of DuPont, WA; nine grandchildren, Tahjan, Leyleh, Maleyah, Derrick Jr., Brandon, Darnell Jr., Xavier, Jonah, and Kayleigh; five siblings, Bernice Bass (Terry), Mary Green (Sonny), Charlie M. Sneed, Jr. all of Bay City, Texas, Ronald Sneed of Lake Jackson and Leonard Sneed of El Paso, Texas; father-in-law, Walton Walker of Horthorne, FL; brother-in-law, Dexter Walker (Terri) of Jacksonville, FL; three sister-in-laws, Gillian Louissiant (Jolifils) of Horthorne, FL, Jasmine Walker and Lystra Zerba (Mike) of Summerville, SC; a very special cousin, Brenda Cumberbatch of New Jersey; and a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

Visitation
Friday, May 11, 2018, 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM, Chapel of Green's Mortuary, 2702 Avenue C

Funeral Service
Saturday, May 12, 2018, 11:00 AM, Jesus Freewill Holy Temple Church, 2420 Avenue C

Burial after Service
Saturday, May 12, 2018, Eastview Cemetery, 2401 Golden Avenue

Green’s Mortuary, Bay City, Texas
 

Talma Jean Stanford-O'Neal
October 6, 1956 - June 19, 2018

Funeral services for Talma Jean Stanford-O'Neal, 61, of Bay City, Texas, will be held Saturday, June 30, 2018, at 11 a.m. at New Fellowship Tabernacle Church, 600 Matthew Street in Bay City, with Pastor A. H. Floyd, eulogist.

Burial will follow at Eastview Cemetery in Bay City.

Guest book register will be Friday, June 29, 2018 from 2 p.m. until 7 p.m. at Duncan-Roberts  Funeral Home Chapel.

She was born in Bay City, Texas on October 6, 1956 and passed away June 19, 2018 in Bay City.

Talma was a 1975 graduate of Bay City High School and was currently employed as CNA at The Legacy - Matagorda House. She also was a faithful member of New Fellowship Tabernacle Church in Bay City.

Among her survivors include five children, Everret Franklin (Broderick), Jamarque O'Neal, John O'Neal Jr. (Kanica), Perrylon Bell (Shaneton) and Stephen Parsons; three brothers, Robert Stanford (Gale), Herbert Stanford, and Jerome Stanford; two sisters, Kennetha Stanford and Odessa Stanford; also an enormous host of other relatives and friends.

Condolences may be shared with the family by fax (979) 476-3269 or online at duncan-roberts@att.net

Arrangements with Duncan-Roberts Funeral Home, 2500 Avenue C (JP Davis Blvd.), Bay City, Texas 77414; 979-245-5197.

Bay City Tribune, June 27, 2018

 


Richard P. Starns
October 30, 1944 - August 11, 2018

Richard P. Starns, 73, of Van Vleck, Texas passed away Saturday, August 11, 2018. He was born October 30, 1944 in Forth Worth, Texas.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 51 years, Mary Ann Starns, that he loved dearly; his beloved daughters, Tabatha Jones (Carlton Armour) of Louisiana, Judy Willis (Russell) of Arizona; son, Allen Kucera (Teresa) of Florida; six grandchildren; 12 great-grandchildren; and one great-great-grandchild.

Funeral services will be at 1:15 p.m. Monday, August 20, 2018 at Houston Veteran's National Cemetery, Houston, Texas.

 A celebration of is life will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, August 25, 2018 at Family Worship Center in Bay City, Texas.

Rick never met a stranger and was always willing to lend a hand or help anyone with anything. He had a kind and gentle spirit and was loved and admired by all who knew him.

He was cherished by his family and will be dearly missed.

Bay City Tribune, August 19, 2018
 


Funeral Services Held Here Monday For Alois Emil Svetlik

Funeral services were held here Monday morning at 9 o’clock for Alois Emil Svetlik, 3612 7th Street, who died last Friday at 11:30 p. m., at the Holy Cross Catholic Church with Father Martin officiating. Rosary was said Saturday and Sunday night at 8 p. m.

Svetlik was retired and was 73 years, 11 months and 4 days old.

He is survived by his wife, Rosa Svetlik of Bay City; four daughters Mrs. Millie Hillman of Bay City, Mrs. Mary Hlozek, East Bernard, Mrs. Frances Moore of Bay City and Mrs. Annie Ponder of Wharton; five sons, Louis of South America, James of Bay City, Frank of Phillips, Ray and Willie Svetlik of Bay City; two brothers, Emil and Adolph Svetlik of Hattisville [Hallettsville?].

Funeral services were under the directions of Taylor Bros. Funeral Home and interment was in the Cedarvale Cemetery at Bay City.

Palacios Beacon, October 25, 1952
 


Mrs. Svetlik Dies At 84 – Rosalie Svetlik

Mrs. Rosa Svetlik, 84, passed away at her home at 3612 7th Street, Saturday morning.

Rosary was recited at 7 p. m. Sunday evening at the funeral home chapel. Mass was recited this morning at 10 a. m. at the Holy Cross Catholic Church with Father C. J. Martin officiating. Interment will be in the Cedarvale Cemetery.

Mrs. Svetlik was born in Europe and migrated to the United States at the age of two, setting foot on U. S. soil in Galveston. The family moved to Ammonsville and in 1925 she moved to Bay City.

She is survived by three daughters, Mrs. Millie Hillman of Bay City; Mrs. Annie Ponder of New Gulf and Mrs. Mary Hlozek of East Bernard; five sons, Louis of Bogota, Columbia, Frank of Akron, Ohio, James Ray and Willie of Bay City; 29 grandchildren and 25 great-grandchildren.

Daily Tribune, May 11, 1964
 


Jean Ann Svetlik-McWade
August 05, 1951 - July 14, 2018

Jean Ann Svetlik-McWade, of Port St. Lucie FL, better known as Jeanna, passed away peacefully at her home on Saturday July 14, 2018.She was born on August 5, 1951 in Bay City Tx to James John and Rose Annie Tomasek Svetlik.

Jeanna is survived by her kids Tammy Buller Creech and husband Alton, Billy Buller Jr. and wife Holly, and Vanessa Hansen and husband Kurt; brother James Svetlik and wife Pam; sisters Rosie “Sissy” Svetlik Burt, and Jane Svetlik Laurence. She had 15 grandkids, 9 great-grand kids, and numerous cousins, nephews and nieces.She is preceded in death by her father James John Svetlik, mother Rose Annie Tomasek Svetlik, and brother George Svetlik. Jeanna was a very free-spirited and vibrant woman.

She loved playing dominos and Yahtzee, whether it was on the phone or in person. She loved the beach. She has lived in 8 different states over the course of her life and loved to travel to tropical destinations. Jeanna recently found a love for relaxing on a cruise ship. She loved cruises, and thought everyone should try it at least once in their life. She loved Mexican food, nachos were her favorite. She never missed an episode of the Bachelor or Survivor. She also loved all her dogs and birds and everyone else’s too. She loved pets and they loved her. Dr Pepper was her coffee, and she loved the color pink.

Jeanna was a very loving mother, sister, grandmother, aunt and friend. She loved her family more than words and would have given them the clothes off her back. Jeanna was a wonderful woman and will be dearly missed.

Visitation will begin at 9:00am Saturday July 21, 2018 at Calvary Baptist Church. Services will be 10:00am with Rev. Chester Sassman officiating. Interment will follow at Cedarvale Cemetery. Gathering of friends and family will be at El Zarape Mexican Restaurant following burial.

Taylor Bros. Funeral Home
 

 

 

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Created
May 19, 2018
Updated
May 19, 2018
 

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