Matagorda County Obituaries
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Jesus Romero Calderon
(May 11, 1952 - January 5, 2014)

Jesus Romero Calderon, 61, of Bay City passed away January 5, 2014. He was born May 11, 1952 in Mexico to the late Eliseo Calderon and Lucina Romero Calderon.

Survivors include his wife Cynthia Calderon of Bay City; step-mother Olivia Calderon of Bay City; daughters Rita Calderon Elizondo & husband Jorge Luis of Freeport, Christina Perez & husband Christian of Victoria and Cynthia Vela Joyner of Bay City; son Juan Vela III of Bay City; sisters Rafaela Calderon Hurtado of Bay City, Rosa Calderon Flores of Chicago and Cruz Calderon of Chicago; brothers Eliseo Calderon, Jr. of Bay City and Joe Luis Calderon of Katy; 6 grandchildren and 4 great-grandchildren.

A rosary will be recited at 6:30pm Friday at Taylor Bros. Funeral Home. Funeral mass will be 2:00pm Saturday, January 11, 2014 at Our Lady Of Guadalupe Catholic Church with Msgr. Gerry Cernoch officiating. Interment will follow at Cedarvale Cemetery. Pallbearers will be Jorge Elizondo, Christian Perez, David Hurtado, Luis Calderon, Mark Moya and Cruz Calderon. His grandsons will serve as honorary pallbearers.

Bay City Tribune, January 8, 2014           Photo courtesy of Betty Crosby

Wade Thomas Calk Sr. went to be with his Lord and maker on September 21 in Van Vleck, Texas. He fought a hard battle with cancer, but never lost sight of the final reward-Going to be with his Lord. He took his “ Flight Final ”. He passed away peacefully at his home. He was born on December 17, 1926 in Highlands, Texas to his father Felix Clayton Calk and mother Lillie Constance Kopecky Calk.

Thomas was a member of the U.S. Army Paratroops, 11th Airborne Division, Tech 5, (corporal) including duties as a medic during WWll from December 1944 to November 1946 in Korea. He had a career in Mechanical and Civil Construction. His most prized work achievement was Area Superintendent at Stearns Rogers while working in Evanston and LaBarge, Wyoming. He was a board member of the Apostolic Pentecostal Church in Bay City, Texas which he took great pride in.

He married the love of his life, Alpha Lucille, on May 5, 1950 in Bay City, Texas. Lovingly known as “Sonny Boy” . he was preceded in death by his parents, and his sisters, Sadie Ashcraft and Madelyn Harris. He is survived by his wife of 63 years, his children-Tranis Calk and wife Judy, Clayton Calk and wife Suzanne, Nancy Ducote and husband Al, Wade Calk and wife Pam, Bobby Calk and wife Donna. He is also survived by 8 grandchildren, 22 great grandchildren and 4 great-great-grandchildren who lovingly called him Paw Paw. He is also survived by his sisters Katherine Green, and Evelyn Hornaday and husband Eddie , and numerous nieces and nephews. Thomas loved his church and gospel music, The family wishes to send a Thank You to Houston Hospice-Linda and Marie-for all their loving care and special attention.

Visitation will be held Wednesday, September 25 from 5-7p.m. at the funeral home. Funeral services will be 10;00 A.M. Thursday , Sept 26 at the Apostolic Pentecostal Church in Bay City. Burial will follow at Roselawn Memorial Park.

Bay City Tribune, September 25, 2013                     Photos courtesy of Faye Cunningham

Melvin Frederick Campbell Jr.
August 18, 1937 –June 27, 2013

Melvin Frederick Campbell Jr., 75, of Bay City passed away June 27, 2013 at his home.

He was born August 18, 1937 in Colorado County, Texas to the late Melvin Frederick Sr. and Frances Frnka Campbell.

Melvin was a long time resident of Bay City, served his country as a member of the United States Army and was a retired warehouse supervisor with Phillips Petroleum Company.

He is survived by: his two daughters, Stephanie Renee Cassey and husband Robert of Vidor and Amy Cline and husband Kelly of Humble; son, Dayton Cole and wife Cathy of Boone, North Carolina; nine grandchildren, Erin Cole Brownfield, Adam Cole, Justin Cole, Sara Cole Glenn, Amy Cole Holway, Ketcher Cline, Kinsey Cline, Christene Cassey, and Victoria Cassey; and four great-grandchildren, Dayton Brownfield, Cole Holway, Kaih Cole, and Dominic Holway.

Melvin was preceded in death by his parents and wife, Carolyn Christine Hicks Campbell in April of 2007.

Memorial services will be held at 4 p.m., Saturday, August 17, 2013 at Taylor Bros. Funeral Home with the Rev. Lawrence Gwin officiating.

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

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

Bay City Tribune, August 14, 2013                          Photo courtesy of Faye Cunningham

Abel Joe Cantu, Jr.
(September 29, 1974 - May 5, 2013)

Abel Joe Cantu, Jr., 38, of Van Vleck passed away May 5, 2013. He was born September 29, 1974 in Bay City to Abel Joe Cantu, Sr. and Olivia Gonzales Cantu. He was a pipe-fitter foreman who enjoyed playing softball, coaching Little League Baseball, watching both of his boys play baseball and was an avid Dallas Cowboys Fan.

His father preceded him in death. Survivors include his wife, Erica Cantu; sons Jordan Cantu and Antonio “Tony” Cantu; mother Olivia Cantu; sisters Debbie Cantu & husband Frank, Amanda Cantu and Audra Cantu as well as several nieces and nephews.

A rosary will be recited at 6:30 PM Wednesday at the funeral home. Mass will be 10:00 AM Thursday, May 9, 2013 at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church with Rev. Gerry Cernoch officiating. Interment will follow at Roselawn Memorial Park in Van Vleck. Pallbearers will be Daniel Gonzales, Eddie Esparza, Jr. Esparza, Lupe Zboral, Daniel Garza, Lynn Garza, Mario Hull, and Brett Pomeroy.

Please make memorials to Antonio Cantu College Fund; c/o Texas Dow Employees Credit Union.

Taylor Bros. Funeral Home                     Photo courtesy of Faye Cunningham

Three violent deaths were recorded in Matagorda County this weekend, two by a violent headon traffic accident about 9:20 p.m. Saturday in which a woman and a man were killed, and a tragic shooting accident which took the life of a six-year-old Palacios youth.

Dead from the traffic accident which was about a mile west of the Blessing underpass on Highway 35 were Mrs. Nellie Odom McGauthey, 20, of Humble, who was killed instantly, and Pete Carrillo, 22, of Francitas, who died about 10 minutes after the accident. Mrs. McGaughey was pinned in the death car, a 1955 Ford, for quite sometime before the body could be removed. Carrillo, whose 1950 Ford was on Mrs. McGaughey's
side of the road at the time of the terrific impact was thrown from the car. He died before arrival of a Taylor Brothers Ambulance.

Investigating officers of the Saturday night traffic accident said the wreck was a "perfect head-on collision." in that both cars were struck flush on the extreme front of each vehicle.

Both cars were badly crumpled with the motor of the 1955 Ford driven by Mrs. McGaughey, being driven back into the front seat area, as was the metal of the side rear of the 1955 Ford. The impact also jarred open the turtle of Carrillo's 1950 Ford, and tossed the jack of the car about 10 to 12 feet behind the car.

Traffic was slowed for the accident, but not stopped for both cars were on the left side of the highway as one looked towards Bay City.

Mrs. McGaughey, who was enroute to spend her first wedding anniversary with her husband M. G. McGaughey on Sunday, was driving east towards Bay City at the time and Carillo was driving west towards Blessing at the time of the of the fatal accident.

The two traffic deaths were the first recorded in Matagorda County this year. State Highway Patrolman Leonard Swan reported.

Later when the victim's husband Mr. McCaughey arrived at the funeral home in Bay City he told B. L. Bickham, sheriff's deputy that his wife's parents had 12 years ago died in a similar tragic traffic accident.

There were no skid marks on the road, Officer Swan and others said Saturday night.

Mr. McGaughey is a driller for Henderson Drilling Company, working on a site at Blessing when the accident occurred. He was residing at the Blessing Hotel. The couple had planned an anniversary celebration for Sunday, which would have marked the first anniversary of their marriage.

The scene of the accident was on a straight stretch of Highway 35 about a mile west of the turns and underpass at the junction of Highways 35 and 71. The location was about 15 miles from Bay City.

Justice of the Peace D. B. Hinton rendered verdicts of accidental deaths.

THE DAILY TRIBUNE, Monday, April 29, 1957
 

Opal Walter Teagle Carradine
Dec. 10, 1915 – March 3, 2013

After a brief hospital stay, Opal Walter Teagle Carradine died at her home on Sunday, March 3, 2013. She was 97 years old.

Opal was born December 10, 1915 to George and Lena Phillips Teagle. She grew up in Kirk, Texas, a community, which no longer exists. But, like many of us, she always thought fondly of her hometown, and talked of returning.

She married William R Carradine in 1939. They lived in several Texas cities, then came to Bay City about 70 years ago. Opal has been here since. William (Bill), an employee of the city, died in 1974.

Opal was preceded in death by her parents, two sisters, and three brothers. She was the last of her generation on both sides of the family.

She is survived by: three children, William Jr. and wife Julia of Austin, Elaine Booker of Irving, and Robert of Bay City; also, two grandchildren, Paul Carradine of Houston, and Cassie Carradine of Austin.

Most of her life was spent taking excellent care of Robert. She worked tirelessly to provide for him as best she knew how.

The family received visitors from Tuesday, March 5, 2013 at Taylor Bros. Funeral Home.

A graveside service will be held at 2 p.m. Wednesday, March 6, 2013 at Cedarvale Cemetery.

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

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

Bay City Tribune, March 6, 2013                  Photo courtesy of Betty Crosby

William Radell Carradine
Photo courtesy of Betty Crosby

Bill Carradine Dies

A long-time Bay Citian who served as superintendent of the city utilities department for 25 years died this morning at Matagorda General Hospital. William Radell Carradine, 59, a resident of 2200 5^th in Bay City for 29 years expired shortly after 9 a. m. this morning following a short illness.

Carradine came to Bay City in 1945 from Galveston where he was with the Internal Revenue Service since 1941. He worked at the Bay City Packing Company before going to work for the city on June 1. 1949. He was superintendent of the Utility Department and also served as treasurer. He was an unofficial member of the Gas board.

Acting as an interested citizen, Carradine served in many community and civic projects. He was a member of the First United Methodist Church and served on the Board of Stewards. He held an active membership in the Lions Club and was a part president.

Carradine was very active in Little League and helped build the first Little League field. He assisted in the construction of the present city hall and other building projects such as the water tank, library, sewer plant and water tower. He was also a former Rice Festival chairman.

He is survived by: wife, Opal Teagle Carradine of Bay City; two sons, William Radell Carradine Jr. of Ponca City, Okla. and Robert Caradine of Bay City; one daughter, Mrs. Vance Booker of Irving; one brother, R. E. Carradine of Aransas Pass; five sisters, Mrs. Owen Kennedy, Mrs. Walter Sanders and Mrs. Ralph Roe, all of Waco, and Mrs. Charlie Mitchell and Mrs. A. B. Whitton, both of Mort; and two grandchildren, Paul Carradine and Cassandra Carradine of Ponca City.

Rev. James Thompson will officiate at services which are pending at the First United Methodist Church. Bay City Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Daily Tribune, January 30, 1974
 

Rose Mary Carter-Jackson

Rose Mary Carter-Jackson, 56, of Cedar Lake, passed away July 17, 2013 at Bay Villa Health Care Center.

Visitation will be held Wednesday, from 2 p.m. until 8 p.m. at Duncan-Roberts Funeral Home Chapel.

Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m., Thursday, July 25, 2013 at Bethlehem Christian Church, Cedar Lake, Texas.

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

Bay City Tribune, July 24, 2013
 

Bay City Tribune, February 19, 2014

Viola Chandler

Viola Chandler, 92, died peacefully in her sleep in Waynesboro, Virginia, December 20, 2013, after several years of gradually declining health.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband of 64 years, Roland Lavelle Chandler, who was a long time Marathon Oil employee; two brothers, both killed in WWII; and one sister.

She is survived by her other sister; two sons, Mac Chandler of Staunton, Virginia, and John Chandler of Clearwater, Florida; two nieces; one nephew; and Mac’s two children and two grandchildren.

A private burial of her and her husband’s ashes in her family plot in Jonesboro, Louisiana, where she was born and raised, will be performed at a later date.

Memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital, Memphis, Tennessee.

Bay City Tribune, December 29, 2013
 

Bay City Tribune, January 5, 2014
 

Mable L. Clark
Oct. 20, 1920 – Feb. 23, 2013

Funeral services for Mable L. Clark, 92, of Bay City, will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, March 2, 2013 at Kendleton Church of God, Kendleton, Texas, with burial to follow at Scott Cemetery in Boone’s Bend Community.

Visitation and guest book register will be from 2 until 8 p.m. Friday at the funeral home chapel.

She was born in Wharton County, Texas, October 20, 1920, to John Scott and Jeralean Wright Scott and passed away February 23, 2013 in Bay City.

Survivors include: six sisters, L.V. Tisdale, Quvella Harris, Mozelle Westbrook, Dorothy Wiley (and R.A.), Joyce Punch (and Rodney) and Sheila Gooden (and Chris), and one brother, Johnny Taylor (and Betty); a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents and siblings, Hortence Scott, Chester Scott, Elicious Scott and John Scott, Jr. and also a longtime friend, Wesley Baker.

Condolences may be shared with the family by fax to 979-245-1537 and online at duncan-roberts@att.net.

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

Bay City Tribune, February 27, 2013
 

Infant Clayton - Matagorda Cemetery - Photo courtesy of Faye Cunningham

Joshua Clayton - Matagorda Cemetery - Photo courtesy of Faye Cunningham

Lacy Jewell Cleek

CLEEK, Mrs. Lacy Jewell, of Sweeny, passed away in her home on Dec. 22. Mrs. Cleek was a retired school teacher and a 14 year resident of Sweeny.

She is survived by her husband, Ivan Cleek and mother, Mrs. C. T. [Maxie Lou] Gibbs of Bay City. Also, four sisters: Mrs. Grace Glauser of San Antonio; Mrs. Lucille Richardson of Bay City; Mrs. Doris Cockburn of Winkelman, Ariz.; and Mrs. Irene Hale of San Antonio. And five brothers: William Gibbs of Cameron, Coleman Gibbs of Leesville, La.; Elmer Gibbs of Marble Falls; Kenneth Gibbs of Houston; and Harrell Gibbs of Bay City. Services will be held on Dec. 24 at 3:00 p. m. in Taylor Brothers Chapel with the Reverend W. D. Baker of the First Baptist Church officiating. Interment will be in Roselawn Memorial Park. Pallbearers will be Gordon Yates, Calvin Holton, O. R. Hagaman, Brittan Sewell, Arthur Younts, Ernest Sewell and K. J. Richardson. Arrangements made through Taylor Brothers Funeral Home.

Daily Tribune, December 22, 1970
 

Doris Gibbs Cockburn

Funeral services for Doris Gibbs Cockburn, 74, of Peoria, Arizona, are scheduled for 2 p. m., Feb. 11 at the Bay City Funeral Home Chapel with Dr. Michael Zimmerman officiating. Burial will follow at Roselawn Memorial Park in Van Vleck.

Doris Cockburn passed away Feb. 4 in Maryvale Samaritan Hospital.

She was born Jan. 28, 1924 in Yarrellton to parents Carroll Thomas and Maxie Lou Underwood Gibbs.

She was a former resident of Granite Shoals and a member of the First Baptist Church in Marble Falls.

Survivors include her daughter and son-in-law, Linda and Herb Franks of Avondale, Arizona; son, Mike Leath of Chandler, Ariz.; sister, Grace Glauser of San Antonio; sisters and brothers-in-law, Lucille and Morris Richardson of Bay City; Irene and John Hale of San Antonio; brother, Elmer T. Gibbs of Onalaska; brothers and sisters-in-law, Ken and Beth Gibbs of Houston and Harrell and Etta Jean Gibbs of Bay City; and five grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Jessie Carl “Speck” Cockburn on Aug. 29, 1997; and grandson, Perry Ashby III; her parents, and two sisters, Lacy Jewell Gibbs Cleek and Mildred Lorraine Gibbs Getty, and three brothers, William Carroll Gibbs, Joe Taylor “Pete” Gibbs and Coleman Thomas Gibbs.

Pallbearers are Donald Richardson, Kenneth A. Gibbs, Larry Gibbs, John A. Hale, Flirsh Ermis, Steven Ermis and Bobby Bonorden.

Daily Tribune, February 10, 1998                           Marker photo courtesy of Faye Cunningham

Jessie Carl “Speck” Cockburn

Funeral services for Jessie C. Cockburn, 81, of Granite Shoals, were held on Tuesday, Sept. 2 at the Bay City Funeral Home Chapel with the Rev. Robbins Odom officiating. Burial was at Roselawn Memorial Park in Van Vleck.

Mr. Cockburn died on Aug. 30, 1997 at Highland Lakes Medical Center in Burnett. He was born May 29, 1916 in Velma, Okla., to Hardy Green and Fanny Pearl Waren Cockburn.

He worked as a construction worker and was a member of the Pipe-fitters Union 196 in Amarillo.

He is survived by his wife, Doris Evelyn Cockburn, of Granite Shoals; [step] daughter, Linda Franks of Avondale, Az.; [step] son, Mike Leath of Mesa, Az.; brother, Harold Cockburn of Bowie; nieces, Nan Gilbert of Houston and Patty Louise Broyles of Kingsland; sisters-in-law, Grace Glauser and Irene Hale of San Antonio and Lucille Richardson of Bay City; brothers-in-law, Elmer Gibbs of Onalaska, Kenneth Gibbs of Houston and Harrell Gibbs of Bay City; and a number of step-grandchildren and step-great-grandchildren.

Pallbearers were Steven Ermis, Flirsh Ermis, John Hale, Larry Gibbs, Don Richardson and Bobby Bonorden.

Arrangements were under the direction of Dick R. Elkins Funeral Home in Bay City.

Daily Tribune, September 5, 1997
 

Gail Singleton Conner
Oct. 22, 1946 – April 26, 2013

Gail Singleton Conner, 66, of Bay City, Texas passed away April 26, 2013. She was born October 22, 1946 in Port Chester, NY to the late David and June Singleton. She attended the University of Mississippi and became a resident of Bay City in 1988.

Gail was a member of and an Ordained Elder of the 1st Presbyterian Church where she served in many capacities.

She was honored as Woman of the Year by the Bay City Chamber of Commerce in 2001. She was an original member of the Market Days Committee and Matagorda County Day in Austin.

She was instrumental in bringing the Texas Historical Commission’s Main Street Project to Bay City. Gail was also one of the driving forces behind StreetScape project that changed the face of Bay City Square. She spearheaded “Bay City 2000” project and served as Chairman of “Keep Bay City Beautiful” Committee. She tirelessly and fearlessly spoke to civic, service and church groups about garbage collection changes in Bay City and earned the nickname “Garbage Queen.” She also helped create the annual “E-Waste Collection” day and secured funding for the annual Household Hazardous Waste Collection Day.

During this time she began her column “Do You Know” in the Bay City Tribune. She was involved in much more than we can list, but through it all she was a passionate believer and hands-on person who truly loved Bay City.

Gail was preceded in death by: her husband, Jack I. Conner; her parents; step-father, Edward LaBerge; and twin sister, Jan Singleton McAllister.

Survivors include: sons, Dr. Tod Singleton Conner and wife Leah and Robert Hardin Conner and wife Libbie; sister, Ann Singleton Bush; sisters-in-law, Jane Walsh and husband Chuck and Lucy Denton; and grandchildren, Brantley Kathleen Conner, Sadie Grace Conner, Kelty Lawren Conner, Lucy Jane Conner and McInnis Arthur Conner.

Gail’s family wishes to express their heartfelt gratitude to her caregivers Sandra Brown, Nina George, Genevive Sanchez, Carolina Trevino and Tori Franklin.

The family received friends and relatives from 5-7 p.m. Sunday, April 28, 2013 at the funeral home.

Funeral service were at 2 p.m. Monday at the 1st Presbyterian Church with Rev. Mark Stoub and Rev. Hugh Jones officiating.

Graveside service will be 2 p.m. Wednesday, May 1, 2013 at Parkway Memorial Cemetery in Ridgeland, Mississippi.

Pallbearers will be Steve Pearce, Richard Knapik, Charles Allison, Scott Peden, Paul Serra, Chuck Walsh, Jamie McAda and Steve Sliva.

Memorials in her name may be made to “Keep Bay City Beautiful”; C/O Scott Peden; 7 Carrington Ct.; Bay City, TX 77414; 1st Presbyterian Church; 2216 Ave H; Bay City, TX 77414 or Bethel Independent Methodist Church; C/O Mr. Donald Miller; 3549 Attala Rd. 3022; Kosciusko, MS 39090.

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

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

Bay City Tribune, May 1, 2013
 

Clifford Paul Cooper
(February 13, 1932 - June 7, 2013)

PALACIOS - Clifford Paul Cooper was born on February 14, 1932 in Nixon, Texas to George and Ima Ivy Cooper. He passed peacefully on June 7, 2013 surrounded by his family.

Paul moved to Palacios, Texas in the early 40's. He enlisted in the Army at the age of 17 and served in the Korean War as a Master Sergeant. He married the love of his life, Frankie Faye Stallard on June 11, 1955. To this union, sons, Stephen and Rodney Cooper were born. He worked in the oil industry and retired from Neumin Production Company as Production Supervisor. After retirement, he spent 9 years as a professional guide at the King Ranch. His passion was hunting, fishing and spending time with family and friends. He worked with kids in 4-H and also helped popularize Team Roping. Farming and ranching were also a very big part of his life. He lived a very active lifestyle in the Deutschburg Community from 1958 until his passing. He attended the First Baptist Church.

He is survived by wife, Frankie Faye Stallard Cooper of Deutschburg; sons, Steve and Kim Cooper of El Campo, Rodney and Kathy Cooper of LaWard; grandchildren, Courtney Cooper, Alexis Cooper, Shelby Cooper, Ryan and Kara Howard and Lindsay Howard; great grandchildren, Karys and Drew Howard and Kinlea Cooper; sisters, Margie Johs of Palacios, Dorothy and Claude Collins of Palacios, Shirley Rogers of Ewing, Kentucky, sisters and brothers-in-law, Novella and Raymond Bales of Marble Falls and Fannie Raye and Bill Ivy of San Antonio and numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; sister, Kathleen Peerbolte, and brother, Felton Cooper.

Pallbearers are Hensley Weaver, Larry Dillard, Eddie Vavra, Ronnie Kubecka, Van Crittendon, and Dick Kubecka.

Honorary Pallbearers are Cody Adams, Scott Arbuckle, Dean Blackwell, Robert Cornett, Billy Hamlin, A.J. Hebert, Bruce Kay, Craig Radley, Bill Scurlock, Brian Streams, Lonnie Williams and Bill Yeager.

The family will receive visitors from 5-7pm Monday, June 10, 2013 at the Palacios Funeral Home. Interment will be 9am, Tuesday, June 11, 2013 at the Deutschburg Community Cemetery and a Memorial Service will follow at 11am at First Baptist Church in Palacios.

Memorials may be made to the First Baptist Church of Palacios or the Deutschburg Cemetery Fund. Online condolences may be shared with the family by visiting www.taylorbros.net. Arrangements are with Palacios Funeral Home, 361-972-2012.

Published in Victoria Advocate on June 10, 2013
 

Leonard Herff Cornelius passed away September 19, 2013 at home surrounded by his children. He was born August 19, 1926 in Markham, Texas to the late W. D. Cornelius and Mary Ethel Johnson Cornelius. He lived his entire life in Matagorda County with the exception of residing in Australia for 3 years with his family. He was a lifelong rancher and a true man of his word. He was a member of Holy Cross Catholic Church; past director of Southwest Texas Cattle Raisers Association; member of Matagorda County Cattlemen’s Association; member of Kansas Cattlemen’s Association and a number of other organizations. His sister Annabelle Cobb and brother Daniel Cornelius preceded him in death. He is survived by his wife of over 66 years, Bettie Lou Cornelius; children Donna Harrison & husband George, Debbie Reed & husband Bob, Bonnie Elbel & husband David, Melody Sanders & husband Ken, Amy McLeod & husband Mack, Herff Cornelius & wife Nancy, Brenda Rider & husband Bill, Connie Coney & husband Jeff and Mary Nuala Brown; grandchildren Jennifer Ligums & husband Jeb, Tres Hovel & wife Tania, Robby Reed & wife Stephanie, Rick Reed & wife Casey, Randi Walker & husband Marshall, Brian Elbel & wife Sarah, Ellis Elbel, Kathrin Campise & husband David, Michael Sanders & wife Amber, Brandon Sanders & wife Barbara, Michelle Weathers & husband Stephen, Jake McLeod & wife Pam, Len Cornelius & wife Savannah, Sara Cornelius & fiance’ Michael, Brant Rider, Blake Rider, Braden Rider, Kimberlee Rodriguez & husband Adam, Rebecca Coney and Avery Coney; great grandchildren Jet and George Hovel , Robert Reed III, Ruger Reed, Weston, Finley, Hattie and Chloe Walker , Tristan and Kristan Campise , Brooke and Brylie Sanders, Grady and Lucy Weathers , Lila McLeod, and Wyatt Cornelius; numerous nieces and nephews and many great friends. The Cornelius family would like to express special thanks to Susan and Doug Ryman, Nelly and Simana, Angels Care Home Health, Andrea, Dr. Dada, Dee, Doretha and Gloria. A rosary will be recited at 5:30 Saturday, Sept. 21, 2013 at Taylor Bros. Funeral Home. Funeral mass will be 2:00 PM Sunday, September 22, 2013 at Holy Cross Catholic Church with Rev. Greg Korenek officiating. Interment will follow at Hawley Cemetery. Pallbearers will be Tres Hovel, Robby Reed, Rick Reed, Brian Elbel, Michael Reitz, Brandon Reitz, Jake McLeod, Len Cornelius, Brant Rider, Blake Rider, Branden Rider and Avery Casey. Honorary pallbearers will be Clyde McKinney, Warren Criswell, Billy Burton and Bert Huebner. Please consider memorials in his name to Holy Cross School Foundation, American Cancer Society or Alzheimer’s Association. “THE COWBOY RIDES AWAY.”

www.taylorbros.net
 

Dorothy Dell (Charley) Cornett, 94, of Blessing, Texas went peacefully to the Lord on October 14, 2013. She was born on December 6, 1918 to the late S. P. and Flora Charley in Huntsville, Texas. She deeply loved the Lord, our savior Jesus Christ, her family, church, and expressed her Christian faith often. She was a lifelong Methodist. She is survived by her sons Doug Cornett (Kathy), Jack Cornett (Nettie), Robert Cornett (Julie), and John Cornett; her loving sisters Helen Aden and Flora Traylor (R.M.), along with grandchildren Reno Cornett, James Cornett, Joey Cornett, Anna Cornett Brown, Grant Cornett, Anisa Cornett, Chas Cornett, Jana Cornett Busby, Connie Cornett , Clay Cornett, Cole Cornett, Casey Cornett, Fara Cornett Ashcraft, Shane Cornett, Todd Cornett, and Alicia Cornett McCracken, nephew Richard Traylor, niece Denise Whitsell, and numerous great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents, husband Elmer, sons Joe Bruce Cornett, J. E. “Budger” Cornett II, grandsons Wyatt Jack Cornett and Jason Earl Cornett, and sister Lucille Corgey. She attended Hartwell School in Westfield, Texas, graduated from Sam Houston State Teachers College in 3 years, and began her teaching career in Markham, Texas. In Markham she met the love of her life and future husband J.E. “Elmer” Cornett. She later taught school in Blessing and Bloomington, Texas. She was a very devoted wife and mother and was always seen in the bleachers at the county stock show, Little League games, Blessing School athletics, and Tidehaven High School; watching her sons and their friends play football and run track in the Glory 60’s of Tidehaven. She went along on hunting trips to West Texas and prepared many a wildlife and fish dinner. Her cooking was known throughout the area, especially her homemade rolls and infamous old fashion “scratch” chocolate cake that no one could duplicate. The recipe was written, but we believe that her exact technique was something that she never completely revealed. Those who dined at her table often showed up again at the just the right time. “Grandmother” will be deeply missed by her friends, family, and especially her grandchildren, which she loved to rock and put to sleep. Pallbearers will be her Grandchildren. The family will receive friends Wednesday, Oct. 16, 2013 from 6;00-8:00P.M. at Taylor Bros. Funeral Home in Bay City, Texas. Funeral services will be Thursday, Oct. 17, 2013 at 10:00 A.M. at the Methodist Church in Palacios, Texas with interment at Hawley Cemetery, Blessing. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to the Hawley Cemetery Association, P.O. Box 343, Blessing, Texas 77419 or charity of your choice

Bernardo Coronado
(February 10, 1926 - May 6, 2013)

Bernardo Coronado, 87, of Bay City passed away May 6, 2013. He was born February 10, 1926 in Monterrey, Mexico to the late Felipe Coronado and Herminihilda Garza Crornado.

Survivors include his wife Carolina Cobos Coronado; daughter Letisia Ramos & husband Joseph of Bay City; sons Mario Coronado & wife Janet of LaGrange and Cesar Coronado of Arizona; grandchildren Yvette Coronado, Angela Pfieffer & husband Ben, Amanda Coronado and Stephanie Ramos and great grandson Henry Pfieffer.

A rosary will be recited at 6:30 PM Sunday, May 12, 2013 at Taylor Bros. Funeral Home. Mass will be 10:00 AM Monday, May 13, 2013 at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church with Rev. Gerry Cernoch officiating. Interment will follow at Roselawn Memorial Park.

Taylor Bros. Funeral Home

Claudell Knapp Tweedle Covey
(March 23, 1919 - April 25, 2013)

Claudell Knapp Tweedle Covey, 94, of Bay City passed away on Thursday, April 25, 2013. She was born March 23, 1919 in Bastrop, TX to the late Edward & Mittie Tucker Knapp. Claudell married W. D. Tweedle in 1936, and was widowed in 1979. She remarried in 1981 to James C. Covey. Claudell was a homemaker and lived in Matagorda County over 90 years. She attended the Church of the Nazarene. Her life was filled with love for her family, bowling, fishing, and camping. Claudell was an inspiration to anyone who was around her. She was deeply loved by all, and will be remembered forever in our hearts.

Claudell is survived by her husband: James C. Covey; 4 daughters: Claudia & Milton Jarrell, Nora Stephens, Betty & Jimmy Stephens, and Peggy & Russell Cram all of Bay City; son: Raymond Tweedle & Joy Russell of Jacksonville, FL; sister-in-law: Martha Knapp of Edna; brother-in-law: Connie Covey of Arkansas; 14 grandchildren: 32 great grandchildren; 31 great great grandchildren; 1 great great great grandchild; and numerous nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents; husband: W. D. Tweedle; son: Denver E. Tweedle; son-in-law: Earl Stephens; 3 sisters: Annie Lee Chanik, Mary Rooks, & Ardine Ryman; brother: E. J. Knapp; 2 granddaughters: Minnie Wood & Belinda Emery; and great great grandson: Kevin Tucker.

The family will receive visitors from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM Friday, April 26, 2013 at the funeral home. The funeral service will be held 10:00 AM Saturday, April 27, 2013 at Taylor Bros. Funeral Home with Chaplain Don Storey officiating. Interment will follow at Cedarvale Cemetery in Bay City.

Many Thanks are extended to Michelle, Jocelyn, and Ms. Bertha from the family for their outstanding care during her long illness. If anyone would like to honor her memory, please make donations to: Houston Hospice of El Campo, 1102 North Mechanic, El Campo, TX 77437, or JHLTSA (Donor Transplant), P. O. Box 43571, Jacksonville, FL 32203.

Published in the Victoria Advocate April 26, 2013     Photo courtesy of Betty Crosby

Donald “Slim” Cox
July 29, 1935 –May 27, 2013

Donald “Slim” Cox, of Van Vleck, Texas died Monday, May 27, 2013, in Bay Villa Health Care Center, Bay City, Texas.  He was born July 29, 1935, in McDonald, Pa.

Donald was preceded in death by: Thomas A. Cox, Minnie Katharine Rohde Cox, and three brothers, Charles, Nelson and Glen.

Surviving are: three children,  Rose Ann Grahek, Donald and John Cox; five grandchildren; three sisters, Katharine Everett, Wilma Decker and Mildred Wonderling; and long-time companion, Hazel Liberty. 

Mr. Cox enjoyed “Slim’s Small Engine Repair and Lawn Service” and appreciated all his friends and customers. 

At the request of the deceased no viewing or services were scheduled prior to or after his cremation.

Bay City Tribune, June 2, 2013
 

Joseph Hughs Cox

Joseph Hughs Cox, Sr., 64, of Bay City, died in Freeport, Jan. 24, 1976. He was born Oct. 20, 1911 in Fairy, Tex. Survivors include his widow Mrs. Nora Lee Cox of Bay City; two daughters, Audrey Chambless of Bay City and Norma Miller of Houston; three sons Dudley Horn and Paul Horn of Houston and Joseph Hughs Cox, Jr. of Bay City; three sisters, Mrs. Opal Smith of Houston and Mrs. Doris R. Casaway of Crockett; four brothers, _onald Wayne Cox of Ft. Worth, Robert E. Cox of Arlington, Billy Don Cox of Conroe and Jerry D. Cox of Glen Rose; six grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews. Services were held Monday, Jan. 26 at 2 p. m. at the First Christian Church. The Rev. _rnie Williams officiated. Burial was held in Roselawn Memorial Park. Pallbearers were L. M. _ellis, B. F. Schulz, D. B. Wells, Leon Gentry, R. I. Hoke and Jim H. Warnock. Honorary pallbearers were Adrian Newsom, Jack Harris?, Harold Lukefahr, _ilburn Meredith, V. L. _eyer, H. H. Ray, Posey McLendon, Johnny Sykes, Charlie Mitchell, J. L. Sorrell and Rev. Ed Wilbur. Cox was a longtime resident of Bay City and an elder of the First Christian Church of Bay City. He was past Worshipful Master of Bay City Masonic Lodge 865, Past Worthy Patron of Bay City Eastern Star Chapter 380 and a member of the Scottish Rite Bodies of Galveston. Arrangements with Taylor Brothers Funeral Home.

Family requests contributions be made to charity of your choice.

The Daily Tribune, January 26, 1976                            Photo courtesy of Faye Cunningham

Bay City Tribune, July 4, 2013
 

Robert Dale Crammer
December 5, 1932 – September 7, 2013

Our beloved husband and father, Robert Dale Crammer, passed away September 7, 2013 at his home in Bay City, TX.

He was born December 5, 1932 in Smith County, Kansas, the youngest son of Wm. “Ed” and Alta Crammer. Robert served in the Army in the Nike Missile Division, stationed in Boston, from 1954 to 1956. He returned to Kansas to work and help his parents on their farm at Harlan. He met JoAnn Puckett of Franklin, NE., they were married June 1, 1958 and blessed with two children. Knowing and loving his Creator, Robert was baptised in the First Brethren Church in Portis, KS.

He worked very hard to provide for his family and made friends easily. In Leon Anderson’s words: “Dale was employed by Leon & Karen Anderson for over 30 years in multiple entities where he contributed his astounding intelligence and enviable sense of humor. His loyalty, integrity and friendship was very much appreciated. He was a man of multiple skills and held many positions. He was manager of the Anderson Insurance agency in Smith Center, KS. He was also an instructor with the Anderson family business, A. D. Banker & Company in Leawood, KS, where he taught classes and also edited materials for pre-licensing and continuing education classes.”

In Sept. 2008, Robert and JoAnn moved to Bay City, to be closer to their children.

Preceding him in death were his parents; and brother, Don, killed in Korea.

He is survived by wife, JoAnn of 55 years; daughter, Susan and husband Gayle Holton; son, Dr. Robert J. Crammer; brother-in-law, Gary Puckett of Columbus, NE.; nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

The family would like to express a heartfelt thanks to Amed Hospice, Matagorda Hospital, friends and family for the loving care, calls, cards, visits and prayers.

No services are planned at this time.

Bay City Tribune, September 15, 2013
 

Judith Simpson Crawford

Judith Simpson Crawford, 53, of Victoria died in a Houston hospital Wednesday, March 18, 1992, following a lengthy illness.

She was born Sept. 27, 1938, in Bay City to Hazel Inez Rickaway of Cuero and the late and the late Charles Edward Simpson. She was a member of Baptist Temple.

Survivors: husband, Roy W. Crawford of Lamar, Ark.; mother, Hazel Inez Rickaway of Cuero; sisters, Linda C. Gilbreath of Victoria and Alice J. Davis of Cuero; and brother, Michael E. Simpson of Cuero.

Services 11 a. m. Friday at Rosewood Funeral Chapels, the Rev. J. V. Helms, pastor of Baptist Temple, officiating.

Graveside services 2 p. m. Friday at Hawley Cemetery in Blessing, the Rev. Robert Krause officiating.

Rosewood Funeral Chapels, Victoria, 573-4546.

Pallbearers: Jonathon Gilbreath, Lance Simpson, Douglas Simpson, Robert T. Davis, Mark Pekar, Jimmy Crawford and Michael O. Martin.

Memorials: M. D. Anderson Research Center or Baptist Temple.

Newspaper and Date unknown - from Hawley Cemetery records
 

Morris Kent Critendon
March 23, 1934 –August 11, 2013

Morris Kent Critendon, 79, of Simonton, Texas, passed away August 11, 2013 at his residence. 

Morris was born March 23, 1934, in Smithville, Texas to parents, Carlie Critendon and Veneta Hoffman Critendon.

After growing up in and attending schools in Bay City, Texas, Morris became a proud Bearkat at Sam Houston State University in Huntsville, Texas. He served in the Army from July 9, 1954 - May 29, 1956, as a Specialist Third Class stationed in Germany. 

Morris later became a gas analyst and eventually started his own company, Critco Flow Measurement in Houston, Texas. 

Morris is survived by: his wife, Lyn Trammell Christopher of Simonton, Texas; son, Dean Critendon and his wife Tina of Cypress, Texas; daughters, Kathi Waggoner and her husband Steve of Spring, Texas, Missi Baranowski and her husband Sam of Conroe, Texas; step-son, Charles Weiche and his wife Gina of Houston, Texas; step-daughters, Lori Christopher of Katy, Texas, Amber Christopher and her husband Justin Branum of Lewisville, Texas; brother, Bobby Critendon and his wife Timmie of Austin, Texas; sister-in-law, Janice Critendon; grandchildren, Kyle Waggoner, Taylor Waggoner, Cameron Critendon, Blake Critendon, Mackenzie Critendon, Dustin Baranowski, Marissa Baranowski, Christopher C. Weiche, Ryan Weiche, Devin Weiche, Quinn Branum; great-grandchildren, Lane Waggoner, Corinne Weiche; and numerous nephews and great friends.

Morris is preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Carl William Critendon.

The family will have a Celebration of Life Service in honor of Morris Saturday, August 17, 2013, at 36714 Ranchero, Simonton (Valley Lodge), Texas 77476.

Friends who wish may make Memorial Gifts to The Veterans of Foreign Wars at https://secure2.convio.net/vfw/site/Donation2?df_id=4620&4620.donation=form1

Schmidt Funeral Homes, 819 Waller Ave., P.O. Box 248, Brookshire, Texas 77423, 281-934-2424 and 12029 Hwy 36 S., P.O. Box 610, Bellville, Texas, 979-865-2424.

Bay City Tribune, August 14, 2013
 

Esta Lee Crosson went to be with her Lord on Monday, Dec. 16, 2013. Esta was born on March 13, 1920 in Brackenridge, Texas to the late Joe and Linnie Stewart Blackmon. Esta was a loving mother, grandmother, great grandmother and great great grandmother. Esta is survived by her children; Jerrel Crosson & wife Mary, Wayne Crosson & wife Gerry, Sharon Hardaway & husband Jim, Mike Crosson & wife Jan, Brenda Quinn & husband Gary, Ricky Crosson & wife Jan; 10 grandchildren; 18 great grandchildren and 5 great great grandchildren, and numerous nieces, nephews and other loving relatives. And her dog Miracle. Esta is preceded in death by her parents and husband George F. Crosson. Funeral services will be 10:00 A.M. Thursday, Dec, 19, 2013 at Harvest Time Church with Rev. Bobby Williams and Rev. Jim Hardaway officiating. Visitation will be Wednesday from 6-8:00P.M. at the funeral home. Burial to follow at Roselawn Memorial Park.

www.taylorbros.net
 

Joshua Xavier “Xa” Cuellar

Joshua Xavier “Xa” Cuellar, age 15, of Gulfport, passed away on Tuesday, October 22, 2013.

He was preceded in death by his great-grandmother, Loraine Stewart; and his cousin, Ernie Esquivel.

Survivors include his parents, Joshua and Natasha Cuellar; his grandparents, Charnyse and Kerry Loper, Peter and Janie Prejean, and Raymond and Carmen Cuellar; great-grandparents, Robert and Ruth Loper, Raymond and Celia Cuellar, and Santos Esquivel; his aunt, Mary Lou Cuellar; two uncles, Joey Cuellar and Ray Ray Cuellar; and many cousins, aunts, uncles, and other relatives and friends.

“Xa” was a 9th grade student at Gulfport High School and he enjoyed to dress, draw, playing football, playing basketball and hanging out with his dad, and shopping with his mom.

He will be sadly missed by all those who knew him.

Visitation was held Saturday, October 26, 2013, from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. at the Riemann Family Funeral Home, 11280 Three Rivers Road, Gulfport.

The funeral service was held at 11 a.m. in the funeral home chapel.

Interment was held at Smith Cemetery in Steep Hollow.

An online guestbook may be signed at www.riemannfamily.com

Bay City Tribune, October 27, 2013
 

Services Held Friday For Mrs. M. Culbertson

Funeral services for Mrs. Martha Hannah "Sook" Culbertson were held Friday, May 8 at 2 p. m. at the Palacios Funeral Home with Rev. J. O. Steele, pastor of the Church of the Nazarene, officiating. Music was furnished by Rev. and Mrs. Wright of Bay City. Interment was in the Palacios Cemetery.

Born in Lee County, Miss. on March 18, 1889, she passed away Thursday, May 7 at the Matagorda General Hospital in Bay City. She and her first husband, W. A. Dewitt [Dewett] who preceded her in death in 1940, moved to Palacios in 1938. She later married Ed Culbertson and they lived at 313 1/2 Morton Avenue.

She is survived by her husband, two sons, Chandous and Carl Dewitt [Dewett] of Palacios, and one brother, Dennis Madden in Mississippi.

Newspaper and date unknown
 

Laura Lou Curtis
(July 21, 1932 - December 1, 2013)

Laura Lou Curtis, 81, of Bay City was born July 21, 1932 in Cisco, TX to the late Keith Morris and Mattie Grace Deitiker Morris. The Lord called her home peacefully December 1, 2013.

She taught elementary school in Van Vleck for many years retiring in 1995 and worked along with her husband for Curtis Photography. She was a member of the Bay City Pilot Club and Delta Kappa Gamma.

Survivors include her husband Robert P. Curtis of Bay City; daughter DeeAnne Myers & husband Charlie of Alvin; grandson Samuel Blackard of Alvin; sisters-in-law Dr. Joyce Curtis of Abliene and Pat Deitiker of Cisco; cousins Betty Davis, Judy Herron and Sheila Carroll and a number of nieces and nephews. Her step-brothers Gary and Kenneth Deitiker preceded her in death.

The family will receive friends and relatives from 5pm until 7pm Wednesday at the funeral home. Funeral service will be 10:00 AM Thursday, December 5, 2013 at Nichols Street Church of Christ with Bro. Larry Macomber and Bro. Don Anderson officiating. Interment will follow at Roselawn Memorial Park. Pallbearers will be Ross Elkins, Willie Rollins, Dusty Deitiker, Glenn Lee Deitiker, David McLeod and John Westbrook. Honorary pallbearers will be Pat McLeod, Glenn Organ and David Carroll. Memorials in her name may be made to Bay City Pilot Club; PO Box 1084; Bay City, TX 77404-1084 or The Harvest House; 1200 Nichols St.; Bay City, TX 77414.

Taylor Bros. Funeral Home                                  Photo courtesy of Faye Cunningham

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