Matagorda County Obituaries
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Robert Salazar

December 27, 1957 - October 04, 2012

Robert Salazar passed away on October 4, 2012. He was born on December 27, 1957 in Newgulf, Texas to the late Juan and Isabel Chavez Salazar. He was a lifelong resident of the Matagorda County area. He graduated from Van Vleck High School in 1976. He was an electrician by trade. He loved to sing and play his guitar; going to the beach and spending time with his family. He had many friends in life, and he will be truly missed by all that knew and loved him.

He is survived by daughters, Kristin Hopkins of Lake Jackson, Dahlia Morales of Van Vleck, and a son Joey Canales of Van Vleck; grandchildren, Renae and Brendan Hopkins of Lake Jackson; brother Johnny Salazar of Bay City; sisters Lupe Ramirez and husband Ernest Sr. of Bay City, and Teresa Cantu of Wharton. He is also survived by ex-wife and dear friends Debra Clawson of Van Vleck; longtime companion Judy Wernly of Wharton. He was preceded in death by his parents Juan and Isabel Chavez Salazar, sister, Mary Lou Ramirez, and brother Luis Salazar. A memorial service will be held on Saturday, October 27, 2012 with the Rosary beginning at 9:30 A.M.. The funeral Mass will begin at 10:00 A.M. at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church with Rev. Monsignor Gerry Cernoch officiating.

[Burial: Cedarvale Cemetery, Bay City, Matagorda County, Texas]

Taylor Bros. Funeral             Photo courtesy of Faye Cunningham


 


Luz Sanchez

Funeral services for Luz Sanchez, 91, of Bay City were set for 2 pm today at Taylor Brothers Funeral Home Chapel with the Rev. Janie Robles officiating. Burial will be at Roselawn Memorial Park in Van Vleck.

Mrs. Sanchez was a resident of Bay City for 30 years.

Survivors include stepson, Samuel Garcia Jr. of Van Vleck and six grandchildren.

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

Daily Tribune, February 3, 1993              Obituary courtesy of Faye Cunningham
 


Naomi Sanders
January 20, 1925 - March 15, 2020

Naomi Dickerson Sanders of Sargent Texas was called home by our Lord on Sunday, March 15 2020.  

Naomi was born in Burke, Angelina County, Texas on January 20, 1925. She was born to Harvey Franklin Dickerson of Atlanta, Dekalb County, Georgia and Letha Iowa Dickerson of Clayton, Rabun County, Georgia. 

Naomi grew up and attended school in rural Burke, Texas and at age 15 was accepted into Ft. Worth Technical High School for the years of 1940-42 Business Education Program. 

Naomi wed her childhood sweetheart, Walter D. Sanders (Pete) on June 23, 1942 in Angelina County, Texas. They were blessed with two children: Linda Sue Sanders Boney and Robert Lynn Sanders and many grandchildren, great grandchildren and great-great grandchildren. 

Naomi was licensed through the Texas Real Estate Commission and held a Real Estate Brokers License. Naomi and her husband Walter D. (Pete) Sanders owned Sargent Reality and Development.  Together, they developed subdivisions, as well as, businesses in Sargent and in Deer Park, Texas. 

Naomi was a member of the Texas Secretary’s Association.

Naomi was one of the founding members of the Sargent First Baptist Church. She not only gave of herself to work as secretary and bookkeeper, but she served in the choir, taught Sunday School classes and helped in many other capacities too.   

Naomi was an avid hunter, she was an amazing baker, active in her community, spent her life taking care of others and a devoted grandmother and great grandmother. She was loved by so many.  She will be sorely missed. 

The services for Naomi Dickerson Sanders as follows:

On Wednesday, March 18, 2020 a viewing will be held at Taylor Bros. at 2313 Ave. I in Bay City Texas 77414 from 5:00-7:00 PM.The graveside services will be held at Grandview Cemetery at 2:00 PM Thursday, March 19, 2020 at 8501 Spencer HWY Pasadena Texas 77505.

Taylor Bros. Funeral Home
 


Otto Martin Sanders

Funeral services for Otto Martin Sanders, 77, of Bay City will be held at 2 pm Friday at Taylor Brothers Funeral Home with the Rev. Jim Kelley officiating. Burial will be in Roselawn Memorial Park, Van Vleck.

Mr. Sanders was born June 7, 1909, in Kilgore, Ark. to Joseph and Flora Ray Sanders and Died Aug. 6, 1986, at Matagorda General Hospital.

He was a resident of Bay City for 30 years.

Survivors include his wife, Ruth Sanders of Bay City; a daughter, Flora Elizabeth Sanders of Bay City; two sisters, Opal Scott of Kilgore and Maurie Gravett of Orange; a brother, Arvell J. Sanders of Orange; two grandsons; one great-grandson; and several nieces and nephews. Arrangements are with Taylor Brothers Funeral Home.

Daily Tribune, August 1986        Obituary courtesy of Faye Cunningham
 


Amber Le Savage
September 28, 1969 - November 27, 2019

Amber Le Savage, age 50, a resident of Evanston, WY, passed away November 27, 2019 at UC Health University hospital in Denver, CO with her wife Christina at her side.

Amber was born on September 28, 1969 in Perry, OK to Kenneth Wayne Savage and Jacqulyn Leah Bailey Savage. As a young woman Amber attended both Oklahoma University and Oklahoma State University graduating with a Bachelor of Science, Computer and information from Oklahoma State University.   Amber was a devoted mother to her son Kypton.  She enjoyed camping, hiking, four wheeling and generally being outdoors with nature, family and friends. 

Amber worked for Mears Group Inc, where she was the business unit controller for the Midstream Division. She took great pride in being a team member and supporter to her coworkers and took on projects to assure success for the Midstream Division.

Amber had a big heart, supporting the St. Jude Hospital Charity and several animal charities as well.

Amber was preceded in death by her father Kenneth Wayne Savage, Sr. and a brother Kenneth Wayne Savage, Jr. Amber is survived by her spouse, Christina Savage and son Kypton; her mother Jacqulyn Wolfe; sisters Eboney Schomaker and Kristine Morales; brothers Justin Savage and Jade Wolfe.

Amber will be deeply missed by family, friends, and all that knew her.

Visitation will be held Friday, December 13, 2019 from 5 - 7PM at Taylor Bros. Funeral Home in Bay City, Texas. Funeral service will be conducted on Saturday, December 14, 2019 at 10:00 AM at Taylor Bros. Funeral Home with Dr. Mike Zimmerman officiating.  Interment will follow services at the Cedarvale Cemetery, Bay City, Texas.  Pallbearers will be Justin Savage, Jade Wolfe, Richard Morales and Jadon Morales.

A benefit fund has been setup in the name of Kypton Savage, donations can be made out to Kypton Savage FBO Kypton Savage Benefit Fund or Kypton Savage Benefit Fund. Checks should be mailed to 1606 Eastport Plaza Dr, Suite 110, Collinsville IL 62234.

Bay City Tribune, December 11, 2019                   Photo courtesy of Susie Adkins


 


Harley Stewart Savage

March 21, 1931 - December 13, 2019

Harley Stewart Savage, Granddaddy, died peacefully at home with God’s love, December 13, 2019. He was born on March 21, 1931, in Bay City, Texas to Francis I. and Frances Owen Savage where he grew up with his brother, Francis Savage, Jr.  Harley grew up in Bay City, graduated from Bay City High School where he met his Janie.  He married Jane Kirby October 12, 1951.  He attended Texas A&M University and graduated college from Saint Mary’s University in San Antonio, Texas.  After Harley completed college and his time in the service, they returned to Bay City in 1954 to farm and ranch with his father and grandfather, as well as raise their five children.  As his family grew to 14 grandchildren and 27 great-grandchildren to date, he earned his name “Granddaddy”. 

He was preceded in death by his wife of 62 years, Jane Kirby Savage, and his parents Francis I. and Frances Owen Savage.

Our Granddaddy will be lovingly remembered by his family and many friends during his memorial service at St. Mark’s Episcopal Church in Bay City, Texas December 18, 2019, at 3 p. m.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to St. Mark’s Episcopal Church.

He is remembered by his children, daughter, Suzanne and husband Bruce Grover; daughter, Debra Ann and husband David Shield; daughter, Diana Jane and husband Buzzy Romine; son, Stewart Savage and wife Tami; son, Kirby Savage and wife Renee’; grandchildren, Jim and Allison Grover, Paul and Christy Grover, Matthew and Katie Murray, Joshua and Debra Shield, Emily and Brian Lehrmann, Michael and Kim Romine, Jennie and Keith Meyer, John and Courtney Romine, Stew Savage, Christopher Savage, Scott and Amberly Savage, Sarah and Carlysle Bond, Michael and Maegan Griffith, Andrew Griffith; great-grandchildren, Ella and Grace Grover; Avary and Harley Grover; Karsyn, Kolbe, Kaleb, and Karoline Murray; Hudson, Paxton, and Canon Shield; Reid and Madelyn Lehrmann; Cole and Sloan Romine; Luke and Logan Meyer; Cora and Pierce Romine; Bentley and Aubree Savage; Leighton and Landyn Savage; Grace, Sadie, and Charlotte Bond; Walker Griffith.

Harley was a pillar of the community and an active member of many organizations. He was a lifetime rice farmer and outdoor enthusiast. One of his joys was becoming an Episcopal priest and serving the congregation at Christ Episcopal Church in Matagorda, Texas. His greatest joy in life was his family.

Taylor Bros. Funeral Home
 


Ben Schafer

February 07, 1960 - July 15, 2020

Ben Schafer, 60, of Markham, passed away July 15, 2020. He was born February 7, 1960 in Grand Rapids, Iowa to George Melvin and Marion Duncan Schafer.

Ben was preceded in death by his father, and sisters, Laquetta Schafer and Lorel Schafer Rodriguez.

He is survived by his mother Marion Schafer; wife Vicky Ann Boots Schafer; daughter Holly McKee and husband Kevin; son Jonathon Schafer; sisters O. Lee Chavez, Bonnie Sheffler and husband Cliff; brother Lloyd Schafer; grandchildren Megan, Adrian, Brandon and Colton, and numerous nieces and nephews.

He loved his family and his beer.

A Celebration of Life will take place Monday, July 20, 2020 at his home. Friends and family may begin gathering there at 4:00 PM.

In lieu of usual remembrances, donations may be made to Taylor Bros. Funeral Home for final expenses of Little Ben Schafer.

Taylor Bros. Funeral Home
 


Carolyn Joyce Schneider

December 10, 1953 - October 29, 2019

Carolyn Joyce Schneider, 65, of Palacios passed away October 29, 2019. She was born December 10, 1953 in Palacios, Texas to Robert McCrory and Melba Brister McCrory.

She was preceded in death by her father.

Survivors include her husband Victor Schneider; her mother Melba McCrory; daughter Christina Lambert & husband Adolfo; daughter Rachel Bryant; son Matthew Lewis; sister Mary McCrory; brothers Robert McCrory, Henry McCrory and Ricky McCrory; grandchildren Adolfo Lambert, Sean Bryant, Chelsea Bryant, Juliet Lambert, Victoria Bryant, Paula Lambert, Faith Lewis, Bella Lewis, Leland Lewis and JoJo Lewis and great grandchildren John Lane Bryant, Liam Bryant and Isabella Fipps-Bryant.

Visitation will begin at 10:00 AM Thursday, November 7, 2019 followed by a funeral service at 11:00 AM at the Palacios Funeral Home Chapel.

Taylor Bros. Funeral Home
 


Twyla Armenda Shelby

September 18, 1952 - October 23, 2019

Twyla Armenda Shelby, 67, of El Campo passed away October 23, 2019. Throughout her life, she called El Campo, Palacios and Wharton “home”.  She was born September 18, 1952 in Crosbyton, TX to the late Ollie Lee Johnson and Billie Jo Bristow Johnson.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her sister Diane Gaines and brother Richard Lee Johnson.

Survivors include daughter Karen Holub & husband Jason; son Rick Shelby; nephew Tommy Little & wife Elizabeth; grandchildren Austin Holub, J. R. Shelby, Josh Holub, Rebecca Lynn Shelby; great grandchild John Kolten Shelby and her long-time best friend Terry Reed, also known as “Aunt Terry”.

Visitation will be from 1:00 PM until 2:00 PM Monday, October 28, 2019 at the Palacios Funeral Home. Funeral service will begin at 2:00 PM with Doyle West officiating. Interment will follow at the Palacios Cemetery. Serving as pallbearers will be Austin Holub, Josh Holub, J. R. Shelby, Tommy Little, Sheldon Holub and Josh Garcia. Rebecca Lynn Shelby and Levi Zimmerman will serve as honorary pallbearers.

Taylor Bros. Funeral Home
 


Douglas Verne Short

February 05, 1944 - November 11, 2019

Douglas Verne Short, born February 5, 1944 to Ruth Anna Rumble and George Robertson Short in Borger, Texas passed away November 11, 2019.

He spent much of his childhood in Sweeny, Texas and later moved to Bay City, Texas where he attended high school. He ran hurdles for the Bay City High School track team earning many metals for his events, including competition in the state tournament. He attended University of Texas and graduated with a bachelor's degree in physics in 1967, and pursued a long career designing sonar and communication systems for submarines.

He fostered love and appreciation for nature, hunting, fishing, dominoes, and cards, in his nephews. He used their love for those activities, and his gourmet cooking abilities, to inspire them to do well by their mother and in school. He was a voice of reason, particularly during Stephen's junior and senior years of high school. He will be remembered as a great outdoorsman, for a very well-conditioned poker face, a very genuine grin, as well as a warm giving heart to his family and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his step - mother Glendine Thompson Short and his grandson Clayton Hugh Irwin, Jr.

He is survived by his daughter Tammy Hann and her husband Fred of Bay City, his sisters Ruth Ann Short of Palo Alto, CA and Deborah Cobb of Friendswood, Texas, granddaughter Jessica Irwin Tyler and husband Shane of Wharton, Texas, nephews Glen Edward Cobb and wife Christy of Friendswood and Stephen Jay Cobb of Cedar Park, Texas, step - brothers Mike Wade of Bay City and Pat Wade of Emporia, Kansas; Great-granddaughters Angeleahna Riley and Kaidence Emma Mejorado, and great-grandson David Clayton Mejorado of Wharton, Texas.

To honor his wishes, there will not be a service. Memorials may be made to SPCA, your local animal shelters, or the charity of your choice.

Taylor Bros. Funeral Home
 


Joy Gayle Siemering

Joy Gayle Siemering, 58, passed away at her home on January 29, 2020 from complications due to cancer.          

She was born in Alice, TX on June 2, 1961, the second of four children of Charles and Fay Alley. She fully gave her heart to Jesus in 1980 and served him faithfully from that time on, ministering in multiple ways, especially with her singing. In 2012 she became a Seventh Day Adventist after watching the teachings on Amazing Discoveries. She fell completely in love with the beautiful truths they taught from the Bible, and from then on her life became focused on how to share those truths with others.

Joy was an incredibly beautiful person who always had a smile and encouraging word for everyone, even strangers. The love of Jesus shone through her, and she was always thinking of someone else. She had a beautiful voice, a great sense of humor and fun, a deep appreciation for the beauties of nature, and a deep devotion to her family.

She will be deeply missed by her husband Mike Siemering, her daughter Misty Gorley, her sons James Gorley and Daniel Alley, her daughter-in-law Jossalyn, her mother Fay Alley, her sisters Carol Alley and Darla Graf (James), and her brother Steve Alley (Christy) along with her nephews, niece, and her brothers- & sisters-in-law from the Siemering family.

In lieu of flowers, there is a GoFundMe link on her Facebook to help with her medical expenses.

Graveside Service: Hawley Cemetery

McCurdy Funeral Home,105 E Pecan St., Lockhart, TX 78644
 


Timothy Wayne Simicek

Funeral services for Timothy Wayne Simicek, 43, of Palacios, formerly of Ganado were held Dec. 7, at Ganado Funeral Home with Mr. Tony Williams officiating. Interment was at Assumption Cemetery in Ganado.

He was born March 14, 1967 and passed away Dec. 2, 2010.

He is survived by his wife, Sue Myers; daughter, Jasmine Simicek of Blessing; step-daughters, Adrienne Meyers, Amy Meyers, and Misti Meyers, all of Palacios; sisters, Evelyn Reed of Ganado, Barbara Mazoch and husband, Mark of Ganado, Brenda Capak and husband, Jerry of Ganado and Karen Losoya and husband, Robert of Palacios; and brother, James Simicek of Ganado.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Joe and Angeline Simicek, and brothers Dennis Simicek and Larry Joe Simicek.

Pallbearers were Randy Matus, Stephen Spalek, Darrell Simons, Darrell Buckley, Randy Randall, and Alvin Broussard.

Jackson County Herald-Tribune, December 29, 2010 
 


Gary Allen Sliva
March 03, 1957 - January 23, 2020

Gary Allen Sliva, 62, passed away January 23, 2020. He was born March 3, 1957 in Houston, TX to Emil Sliva, Jr. and Vivian Maxwell Sliva.

Gary graduated from Scarborough High School in Houston in 1975. He received his Bachelors and Masters degrees from the University of Memphis in Tennessee. Gary went on to teach ESL Geography, One Goal Graduation as well as other subjects at Bishop Byrne High School in Memphis, as well as Wisdom High School (formerly Robert E. Lee High School) in Houston for 19 years prior to his death.

Prior to teaching, Gary worked for the Salvation Army in Memphis. He was a dedicated teacher, musician, avid reader, and a champion for struggling and poverty stricken students that came to Wisdom High School from every part of the world.

Gary is survived by his parents Emil and Vivian Sliva of Blessing; brother Don and wife Teresa of Wimberly, TX and their children Daniel and Derek; brother Terry and his wife Leticia of El Campo, TX and their children Andrew, Jacob and Matthew, and brother Steve and his wife Ida of Manor, TX and their children Adam Guerrero, Adrian Guerrero and Korena Guerrero.

Our family is moved by the outpouring of love from his current and past students.

The family will receive friends and relatives 5:00-7:00pm Wednesday, January 29 at Taylor Bros. Funeral Home. Services are 2:00pm Thursday, January 30, 2020 at the funeral home with Rev. Wade Floyd officiating. Interment will follow at Hawley Cemetery in Blessing. Pallbearers are Andrew Sliva, Jacob Sliva, Matthew Sliva, Joe G. Sliva, Daniel Sliva and Augustine Calderon.

Taylor Bros. Funeral Home
 


Barbara Sue Smith
Feb. 22, 1948 – Oct. 31, 2011

Barbara Sue Smith, 63, of Brazoria, passed away Monday, October 31, 2011, at her residence.

She was born February 22, 1948, in Garrison, Texas, to Reggie Ray and Juanita Barton Weatherly.

Barbara was a loving, wife, mother and memaw and will be missed by her family and many friends. She volunteered many years for her children’s activities and some of her many hobbies were gardening, painting, cooking, dancing and games.

She is survived by: her loving husband of 45 years, Curtis Lynn Smith; mother, Juanita Weatherly Cast; sons, Patrick Darve Smith and wife Gena Lea, Shawn Lyn Smith and wife Kelly, Trask Ian Smith and wife Kimberly; sisters, Patsy Nugent Smith, Sandra Watson and husband K.M., Kathy Pelham and husband Jerry, Janet Young and husband Paul, Lanita Polk and husband Lucky; sister-in-law, Shirley Weatherly; grandchildren, Jordan Lea Smith, Angela Miller, Ashley Miller, Trevor Smith, Christian Smith, Hayden Smith and Aubree Smith; great-grandson, Jude Elijah Wright; mother-in-law, Gloria Smith; sisters-in-law, Earlyne Faldyn and Joyce Hargis; brothers-in-law, Jimmy Smith and wife Shirley and Larry Smith and wife Velma; and many other loving relatives and friends.

Memorial funeral services will be held at 6 p.m., Thursday, November 3, 2011, at Stroud Funeral Home in Clute.

In lieu of flowers, family request donations be made to American Cancer Society.

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

Funeral arrangements entrusted to Stroud Funeral Home, 538 N. Hwy. 288B, Clute, TX 979-265-1188.

Bay City Tribune, November 2, 2011
 


Curtis Lynn Smith

December 7, 1945- July 12, 2020

Curtis Lynn Smith passed peacefully on July 12, 2020 at the age of 74 following a 20+ year battle with Parkinson’s Disease.  Although the disease ultimately took him from us far too soon, it never defined him and he kept enjoying life with his family for as long as his body allowed.

He was many things to many people, a son, a brother, a father, a grandfather, a carpenter and coworker, but most importantly, in all aspects of his life, he was always loving and kind.

Curtis was a creative soul who loved building home projects, watching sports (especially his Longhorns, Astros & Cowboys), playing cards, listening to music, and dancing.

He always made the holidays a special time for his children and grandchildren.

Curtis was born on December 7, 1945 in Bay City, TX to James and Gloria Smith, graduated from Bay City High School in 1964; and from Wharton County Junior College in 1966.

He married Barbara Sue Weatherly on February 26, 1966 and worked as a carpenter at Dow Chemical Co. from August 1966 to July 1997.

Curtis is survived by his sons: Patrick Darve Smith (Gena), Shawn Lyn Smith (Kelly), and Trask Ian Smith (Kimberly); his grandchildren: Jordan Lea Pena (Dago), Trevor Smith, Angela Miller, Ashley Miller, Christian Smith, Hayden Smith and Aubrey Smith; his great grandchildren: Nova Sue Pena, Esmeralda Pena, Jude Davidson, and Willow Hill; his siblings: James Smith (Shirley), Joyce Hargis, and Larry Smith; his half-siblings: Marie Dugas, Kevin Smith, Audrey Broussard (Dwight), and Randy Smith; his sisters-in-law, Sandra Watson (KM), Kathy Pelham (Jerry), Janet Harrison (Paul), Lanita Polk (Lucky) and many cousins, nieces and nephews.

Curtis was preceded in death by his wife Sue; his parents, Gloria & James; his in-laws Reggie Ray and Juanita Weatherly; his brother Hershel Smith; his sister Earlene Faldyn, his brother-in-law James Weatherly and his sister-in-law Patsy Nugent Smith. 
A memorial will be planned for a later date.

Bay City Sentinel, July 23, 2020
 


Leola Fortenberry Smith - Roselawn Memorial Park - Photo courtesy of Faye Cunningham


 


Lester Emerson Smith

Funeral services for Lester Emerson Smith, 80, will be 2 pm Friday at Taylor Brothers Funeral Home Chapel.  Burial to follow at Roselawn Memorial Park, Van Vleck.

Mr. Smith was born April 28, 1909, in San Antonio to Samuel and Rosie Smith and died April 24, 1990, at Matagorda General Hospital.

A lifelong resident of Bay City, he was a member of the Baptist Church.

Survivors include his wife, Leola Fortenberry Smith of Bay City; three sons, William Smith of Angleton, Clifford Smith and Michael Smith, both of Van Vleck; two sisters, Alta Le Tulle of Markham and Evelyn Polk of Sugar Valley; one brother, Ewell Smith of Wooddrift, S. C. and eight grandchildren.

Pallbearers include Jimmy Fortenberry, Denton Fortenberry, Melvin Trevers, Roy Ryman Jr., J. D. Gassen and Craig Westmoreland.

Arrangements are with Taylor Funeral Home, Bay City.

Daily Tribune, April 1990            Obit & photo courtesy of Faye Cunningham


 


Mr. Wilbert Anthony Smith, "Fuzz"

On August 8, 1935, a baby boy was born to Woolworth Smith and Rosalie Bell, whom they named Wilbert Anthony Smith affectionately known as “Fuzz” or “T-Spoon”. He was the third oldest of seventeen children, who was partially raised by his aunt, Delcenia Smith.

He accepted Christ at an early age and was baptized at Mother Zion Missionary Baptist Church under the leadership Reverend C. H. Brown.  He remained a member of Mother Zion under the leadership of Rev. Murray Martin.

He attended elementary school in San Diego, California but later moved back home where he attended  Powell Point High School in Kendleton, Texas, and graduated in 1952. Upon graduating high school he enlisted in the army where he would serve in the U.S. Army for three years.

On February 28, 1965, Wilbert  married the love of his life Bettie Marie Robertson.  To this union they were blessed with two children, Prince and Sonya.

He was employed at Hoescht Celanese Corporation in Bay City, Texas, as a maintenance engineer retiring after 32 years of service. 

Wilbert's pride and joy was his daughter, Sonya. He was a man who loved spending time with his family.   He looked forward to holidays, special occasions,  and most importantly family reunions. 

Wilbert was a pitcher with the "007 Softball Team" and also a coach for the Bay City Panthers.  He was an historian, loved playing dominoes, watching the Astros, a die-hard Houston Texans fan, loved to travel, and  loved manicuring his yard. He was also the president of the social club “The Fellas.”

Left with broken hearts and cherished memories his wife of 55 years, Bettie Smith; daughter, Sonya Billingsley (Michael); son, Prince Robertson; Godchildren, Donnell Simpson (Trintessa) and Terrisha Mays (Brandon); two grandchildren, Xavier Linson-Smith and Elisha Parker; five  great grandchildren, Deynm Eaton, Eva and Ava Linson-Smith, Kaysen Linson-Smith, and Jakob Bell; twelve siblings, Albert Griggs, Ida Moore, Viola Grice, Catherine McPherson (Eric), Eddie Griggs (Diane), Elroy Griggs (Sharon), Lottie Casey, Lewis Griggs (Vivian), Benjamin Griggs,  Shearly Scott, Ola Times, and Carolyn Griggs; two sisters-in-law, Irma Stone and Eula Mae Fisher “Black Gal”; play-sister, Yolanda Spiller; dear to his heart, Donna Simpson and Michelle Hamilton; and an enormous host of nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives, an extended family of in-laws, and many many friends who will miss him dearly.

Wilbert’s transition from this life came on Sunday, July 26, 2020 at 11:30 in the morning.  He was preceded in death by his parents, Woolworth Smith and Rosalie Griggs; step-father, Eddie Griggs, Sr.; great-granddaughter, Ariyah Linson-Smith; siblings, Leola Griggs-Fields, Georgia Griggs, Robert Griggs, and Leroy Sidney; special nephews, Robert Griggs and Wilbert Griggs; three nieces, Willie Mack, Ashonnia Griggs, and Munye’ Griggs.

Bay City Tribune, August 5, 2020
 


Barbara Lynn Sneath

February 9, 1960 – February 4, 2020

Barbara Lynn Sneath was born February 9, 1960, in Bay City, Texas. She passed peacefully on February 4, 2020, with her family by her side. Barbara is preceded in death by her mother Betty J. Sneath, stepfather Raymond Sneath, and father Robert Teeler. She is survived by her daughter Ashley Simmons and husband Kaleb, grandchildren Samuel and Sydney Simmons, sisters Debbie Sharp and husband Craig, Diane Beyer and husband James, Tracy Wright and husband Ed, brother Raymond Sneath and wife Deeanna, as well as many aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces and nephews.

During her life, Barbara was a devoted worker at both Bay City Country Club and Matagorda General Hospital. She loved to spend time painting, reading, and most of all, listening to Elvis Presley. She was loved by her family and will be dearly missed. There will be a celebration of life on Saturday, February 15, 2020, at 2:00 PM, at the Nichols St. Church of Christ.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks for donations to be made to the Nichols St. Church of Christ Youth and Children Scholarship Funds.

Information provided by family           Marker photo courtesy of Susie Adkins


 


Yvonne Sneed

Yvonne Sneed, 77, of Bay City, Texas passed away on May 5, 2020 in Bay City.

Viewing and guest book registry will be on Thursday, May 14, 2020 from 2 p.m. until 8 p.m. at the Duncan-Roberts Funeral Home Chapel in Bay City.

Services will be held on Friday, May 15, 2020 at 11 a.m. at the Duncan-Roberts Funeral Home Chapel. Burial will follow at Eastview Cemetery in Bay City.

Survivors include an enormous host of relatives and friends.

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

Bay City Tribune, May 13, 2020
 


Isaac J. Sosa - Roselawn Memorial Park - Photo courtesy of Faye Cunningham

 


Annie Stafford

August 9, 1931 - May 19, 2020

Annie Stafford, 88, of Edna and formerly of Boling, passed away Tuesday, May 19, 2020, in Edna, Texas. Annie was born on August 9, 1931, in Artesia, New Mexico, to the late Charles Phillip Riley, Sr. and Ruby Hattie Johnston Riley.

Annie was raised in the San Antonio area and graduated from Lytle High School. She obtained her bachelor’s degree from Southwest Texas State University in San Marcos and her master’s degree from the University of Houston-Victoria. Annie married James W. Stafford on August 21, 1952 in Mississippi, and loved being a “Coaches Wife”. Annie taught 4th and 5th grade  at Newgulf Elementary for 26 years, retiring in 1990. She enjoyed exercising and running, watching Boling High School sports and was in a bowling league in the 1960s. Annie was a “people person” learning things about everybody she met. She enjoyed being active in many clubs and organizations including, the Wharton Garden Club, Boling Lions Club, Matagorda Wharton County Child Protective Services board, the Wharton and Edna Retired Teachers Assoc., the Alexander Love Daughters of the Revolution, a 50 year member of the Order of the Eastern Star, Delta Kappa Gamma, Delta Lambda, the Southern Dames and the Eleanor Breckenridge Literary Society, just to name a few. In what little spare time she had, she loved her garden and square dancing. In addition to her parents she was preceded in death by her husband James W. Stafford, brothers Charles Phillip Riley Jr., William Johnston Riley, and sister Lyla Dawn Cornwell.

Annie is survived by her daughter, Nancy Melton and husband, John of Edna, sister, Chrysta Pearl Moore of Pleasanton, brothers, Robert J. Riley and wife, Dana of Wharton, and Morgan C. Riley and wife, Barbara of San Angelo, and her precious grandchildren, Lea Melton and Doug Melton, along with many friends.

Family graveside services were held on Saturday, May 23, 2020 at 10 am at Evergreen Memorial Park Cemetery in Wharton with Rev. Debbie Cenko officiating.

A Celebration of her life will be held at a later time.

Wharton Funeral Home
 


Holly Diane Standefer

February 23, 1965 – July 27, 2020

Holly Diane Standefer, 55, of Van Vleck, Texas passed away peacefully at home the morning of July 27, 2020. She was born in Houston, Texas, where she grew up.

Holly was preceded in death by her father, Luke Price Standefer.

She is survived by her mother, Joyce Standefer; and brother, Glen Standefer, both of Van Vleck, Texas.

Holly had worked at Walmart in Bay City, Texas, where she had many friends.

No services will be held at this time.

Holly  will be buried next to her father in Grandview Cemetery in Pasadena, Texas.

Arrangements with Taylor Bros. Funeral Home, Bay City, Texas.

Bay City Tribune, July 29, 2020
 


Scott Stewart
March 15, 1954 - March 27, 2020

Harold Scott Stewart, 66, of El Maton, TX passed away Thursday night, March 26, 2020 in the comfort of his home with family by his side. Scott was born March 15, 1954 in El Campo, TX to the late Frank and Bertha (Gerhard) Stewart.

Scott is survived by his wife of 47 years, Mona; son Jeff Stewart and wife Terry of Bay City; daughter Mandi Henkes and husband Matthew of Blessing; grandchildren Lauren Stewart, Mason Taylor and Kendal Greene; great-grandson Barrett Scott Stewart and his sister Brenda Sliva of Blessing.

Scott graduated from Palacios High School in 1972 and joined the United States Air Force. He then married the Love of His Life, Mona (Glaze) Stewart. After serving his country, he worked in the fertilizer and farming industry. Eventually he started his own Turf Farm business alongside his loving wife.

Scott was a member of the First United Methodist Church of Palacios, the American Legion Post 649 and the sons of the American Legion Post 649 of Blessing. He was also a Matagorda County Drainage District commissioner.

Scott was extremely proud to be a United States Air Force Vietnam Viteran. He was a very strong family man, avid hunter and fisherman. His wife, children, grandchildren and great grandchild were the center of his world. He rarely met a stranger and was known for his sparkling green eyes and contagious smile. He will be missed by many.

Graveside services will be 3:30 PM Tuesday, March 31, 2020 at the Hawley Cemetery in Blessing. Pallbearers will be Mason Taylor, Matthew Henkes, Brandon Sliva, Roy “Bubba” Glaze, Jr., Russell Peterson and Eric Kacer. His great-grandson, Barrett Scott Stewart, will serve as honorary pallbearer.

Due to current situations concerning public health, viewing will be private. If you choose to attend the Graveside Service, please practice the suggested social distancing.

For those desiring, memorial donations may be made in his name to the charity of your choice.

Taylor Bros. Funeral Home
 


Frieda Stoever

Graveside services for Frieda Stoever, 90, of Bay City will be held 2 p. m. Wednesday at Cedarvale Cemetery with the Revs. Joe Ramsey and Joe Podalak officiating.

Mrs. Stoever was born Feb. 1, 1902 in Fayetteville to German immigrants, Ernest and Dora Schulze Bartram, and died in her home Aug. 3, 1992.

She was a member of St. Peter Lutheran Church. In her early years, she taught at Abbott Grove School in Fredburg.

Survivors include a daughter and son-in-law, Joyce and Robert Geffert of Bay City; a brother, Albert Bartram of Corpus Christi; a sister, Annie Hardt of San Antonio; four step-grandchildren, Yvonne Mader of Wharton, Angelis Novak of Port Lavaca and Rob and Ernest Geffert, both of Bay City and 21 nieces and nephews.

Mrs. Stoever was preceded in death by her husband, Rudolph C. Stoever, in 1968.

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

Daily Tribune, August 4, 1992
 


Marsha Dean Strelec
June 27, 1946 - May 06, 2020

Marsha Dean Strelec, 73 years of age, of Bay City, Texas went to be with her Lord on May 6th, 2020.

Marsha was born in Bay City, Texas on June 27th, 1946, married Willie Edward Strelec on August 7th, 1965, and had four wonderful children.

Marsha devoted her life to the care of her family and was a loving wife, mother, and grandmother. She shared many fond memories of growing up in West Texas with her parents and all the fun times she had with her siblings. In her younger years, she enjoyed going out to dance and on any given day you could catch her dancing in the kitchen. She could name every 50’s artist and never missed an appointment at the beauty shop. As an animal lover, she cared for Chihuahuas, cats, parakeets, and calf’s to name a few. Her cooking was legendary and everyone always looked forward to the best sugar cookies, egg stuff, and Thanksgiving stuffing. She enjoyed spending time tending to her garden (especially fond of her roses), collecting porcelain dolls, and anything cow moo print. She loved being outdoors; taking rides at the beach and the ranch. She loved beautiful days out on her porch watching the hummingbirds around her colorful feeders.

Marsha is survived by her children Charlotte (Jerry) McKissick, Kristy (Thomas) Bundick, Willie Strelec Jr, and James Dale (Carolina) Strelec; Aunt Ruth Harris, Siblings; Peggy (the late Butch) Roe, Janice (Phillip) Walker, Sammy (Dolores) West, and Jimmy (Linda) West; Grandchildren Brandon (Kylie) McKissick, Bradley (Baylei) McKissick, Bryce McKissick, Amy (Robert) Zenker, and Allison Bundick, Jessica Leissner, Bridget (Kyle) Kubena, Brittany Kersh, Brooke (Phillip) Robles, Gary Bubba Kersh Jr., Vance (Deanna) Strelec, Ashley Strelec, and Tyler Strelec as well as twenty two great grandchildren.

Marsha was preceded in death by her late husband Willie, her parents Willard and Evey Dean West, and her siblings Dave West and Sharon West.

The Funeral Service will be held at Taylor Brothers in Bay City, Texas. Visitation will begin 8:30 AM with services at 10:00 AM on Friday, May 8th, 2020. Interment will follow at Cedarvale Cemetery. Pallbearers are Brandon McKissick, Bradley McKissick, Bryce McKissick, Vance Strelec, Ashley Strelec, Tyler Strelec, Gary Kersh Jr, Kyle Kubena, and Philip Robles.

The family would like to thank the staff of Twin Pines North for the attention and care they provided. They would especially like to thank Marie Zapata, Pam Price, and Monica Huber.

Taylor Bros. Funeral Home


Photo courtesy of Bethany Figueroa
 


Weldon E. Sullivan

Port Lavaca—Weldon E. Sullivan, 92, of Port Lavaca and formerly of El Campo, died Tuesday, June 15, 1999.

He was born June 12, 1908, in Plainview Community. He served in the U. S. Army during World War II in the Signal Corps. He received his bachelor’s degree from Baylor University and was a teacher for 35 years.

Survivors: daughter, Landry Starnes of Fort Worth; and three grandchildren.

Preceded in death by: parents, Joe and Beulah Sullivan; wives, Melba Nelson Sullivan and Louise Seal; and son, Mark Sullivan.

Visitation will begin at 10 a. m. today at Wheeler Funeral Home chapel.

Graveside service will be 3 p. m. Thursday at Garden at Memories Cemetery in El Campo, the Rev. Shan Jackson officiating. Wheeler Funeral Home, El Campo, (409) 543-3512.

Victoria Advocate, Wednesday, June 16, 1999                                      Find A Grave Memorial
 


Jerry Swindall

Dec. 22, 1955– Dec. 9, 2019

Jerry "Pie Man" Swindall passed away on December 9th at the age of 63.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Marie Swindall and E. A. Swindall, and by his brothers, John W. Swindall, Jody Swindall and Ronny Swindall.

He is survived by: his brother, Benny Swindall and wife, Annette; his sister, Joyce Jacobs and husband Jerry; seven nieces and nephews; and many great

nieces and nephews.

A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 11, at First Baptist Church Matagorda, 932 Lewis St, Matagorda, Texas.

Afterward, those who would like to participate can join us at the beach to spread his ashes.

Bay City Sentinel, January 9, 2020
 


Ala Merle Swint
January 15, 1997 - April 24, 2020

Ala Merle Swint, 93, of Bay City, TX passed away April 24, 2020. She was born January 15, 1927 in Oakville, TX to the late Howard Leon Woods and Naomi Evelyn McKinnley Woods.

She was preceded in death by her husband of 74 years, Albert Theodore Swint on April 27, 2019 and daughter-in-law Karen Cargil Swint on October 11, 2019.

Survivors include daughter Sherri Mills & husband Gordon “Bob” of Kingsville, TX; sons Ted Swint of Del Rio, TX and Clay Swint of Lake Hills, TX; grandchildren James McAda & wife Helen, Marlo Martin & husband Pat and Seth Swint & wife Stacey; and great, grandchildren Raleigh McAda, Troy Swint, Amber Swint, Audrey Swint, Haley Swint and Seth Swint.

Taylor Bros. Funeral Home
 

 

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All rights reserved

Created
Mar. 10, 2019
Updated
Oct. 24, 2019
 

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