Matagorda County Obituaries
S
 

Garry Ray Saha Sr.
September 18, 1947 - February 9, 2018

Garry Ray Saha Sr. of El Maton Texas went to be with the Lord on February 9, 2018, with his loving family by his side.

He was born in La Grange, Texas on September 18, 1947 to Emil and Lena Saha of Ellinger Texas. Garry and his parental family moved first to Crosby and then to El Maton, Texas in 1955 to begin a lifelong occupation of farming.

On September 28, 1968 he married Sharon Sue King of Palacios, Texas. Garry continued farming row crop, rice, cotton and finally fish until his retirement. Garry and Sharon enjoyed traveling in their motor home to many camping destinations. Garry also enjoyed flying small planes and hunting. He especially enjoyed the Ellinger area where he had spent a lot of time at his grandparent’s home with uncles and cousins.

He is survived by his loving wife Sharon; his children and grandchildren, Tammie and Dan Werring with Byron of Willis, Texas, Garry and Lafy Saha with Slade and Scollie of Blessing, Texas, Joni and Jan-Henrik Suchort with Mary and Carolyn of Berlin, Germany and John and Amanda Saha with Kyus, Gavin, Cheryl Faith, Drayson and Lyra of Palacios, Texas. He is also survived by his siblings, Suzanne and David Kucera, Anned (Tootsie) Gilbert, Marvin and Charlotte Saha, Kathy and Tommy Boyett, Mike and Janet Saha and Cynthia (Chicken) and Steve Heard; along with numerous nieces and nephews.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Emil and Lena Saha; his mother and father-in-law, Byron and Mary King; and brother-in-law, Marion Gilbert.

Garry loved his Catholic faith, loved his family and his 10 grandchildren, and loved farming. He was a very private person and spent his time taking care of those he loved.

There was a visitation at St. Peter’s Catholic Church in Blessing, Texas on Monday February 12, 2018 from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m. Garry’s rosary will be held at St. Peter’s Catholic Church at 6 p.m.

A funeral mass officiated by Father Gabriel Mensah and Father Samuel Appaisi was held Tuesday, February 13, 2018 at 2 p.m. at St. Peter’s Catholic Church.

Burial followed at St. Peter’s Catholic Cemetery in Blessing, Texas.

Pallbearers included Garry’s nephews and friends, David Kucera II, Steven Gilbert, Greg Saha, Thomas Boyett, Chris Boyett, Mikey Saha, Stephen Heard and Shawn Kacer.

The family invited all to Beneath the Oaks, following the services, on Tuesday for fellowship and celebration.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to MD Anderson Cancer Center.

Bay City Tribune, February 14, 2018
 

Kayla Anne Sanchez
August 13, 1968 - August 10, 2019

Kayla Anne Sanchez, 50, of Palacios passed away August 10, 2019. She was born August 13, 1968 in Bay City.

She was a former dispatcher for the Matagorda County Sheriff’s Office and most recently worked with the Palacios Community Hub.

Her mother, Ophelia Rendon Barrera and step-father, Abelino Barrera preceded her in death.

Survivors include her husband Roberto Sanchez; father and step-mother Johnny Cruz Longoria and Ralph Longoria; daughters Kaymi Palmer & her husband Joshua and Kaitlin Sanchez; son Robby Longoria; sisters Darla Ortiz, Tanya Guerrero, Starr Cruz and Crystal Zepeda; brother Ryan Longoria; her 4 grandchildren Emmiry, Huntyr, Kayden and Abel.

Funeral service will be 10:00 AM Saturday, August 17, 2019 at Taylor Bros. Funeral Home in Bay City. Interment will follow at the Midfield Cemetery. Pallbearers will be Joshua Palmer, Joe Galvan Jr, Steven Galvan, Jeremy Guerrero, Johnny Guerrero, James Cruz Jr, David Zepeda Jr.

Bay City Tribune, August 14, 2019
 

Bay City Tribune, November 29, 1917

Harry Hayward Sauceda
January 3, 1948 - November 24, 2017

On January 3, 1948 a baby boy was born to Tellas and Claudia Sauceda in Bay City, Texas whom they named Harry Hayward Sauceda. He was the third of four children born to this union.

Harry spent his growing years in a nurturing family in the North End neighborhood where he grew and developed in the Bethel Baptist Church under the leadership of Reverend L. C. Cunningham, Sr. Harry attended twelve years of school at A. G. Hilliard High School, where he graduated in 1966. He then attended Prairie View A & M College in Prairie View, Texas but after a short time he decided to join the United States Army. After serving our country, Harry attended Common Wealth College of Science and became a licensed Embalmer. He was employed with Green’s Mortuary for many years.

Harry found lasting love in a relationship with Judi Alliniece, to whom he was married for 30 years. To this union there were eight beautiful children Ryan, Christian, Misty, Jamie, Nina, Arlena, Marquia, and Christopher.

Well known to the Bay City community for his commitment to his love of landscaping, from which he developed a prosperous business. Harry was also instrumental in trying to help many who found themselves in the grips of addition. For many years he participated in and hosted weekly meetings of Narcotics Anonymous groups. His group sought to provide a safe place for addicted persons to express themselves amongst like-minded persons also focused on recovery. A place where they could find hope that their efforts might be successful. Because of his success, he was a much sought after speaker for other groups away from Bay City. He was known for traveling extensively to such meetings, fostering trust and hope along the way.

Harry leaves to remember his loving nature and smile his beloved wife, children, 13 grandchildren; 3 great-grandchildren; brother, Tellas Sauceda, Jr.; sister, Joyce Sauceda Macon; special coffee-club friends, J. W. Brown, William "Shot" Dale, Desi Littleton, Hilliard Class of 1966, and a host of nieces, nephews other relatives and friends who will miss him dearly.

Harry passed away Friday, November 24, 2017 at Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center after a short illness. He was preceded in death by his parents and sister, Lois LaVerne.

Green's Mortuary, Bay City, TX               Photo courtesy of Faye Cunningham

Richard Ryan Schmerber
1951 - 2017

Richard Ryan Schmerber, 66, of Humble, TX, went to his eternal rest Saturday, December 9, 2017, after a long and courageous fight against a combination of serious illnesses.

He was born on December 4, 1951, in Bay City, TX, to James Richard & Noma Cummings Schmerber. He was preceded in death by his parents and his stepfather, Kenneth Hodges.

Richard attended elementary and middle schools in Lake Jackson, and graduated from Brazosport High School in 1970. He attended Lamar University, graduating with a Bachelor of Science in Engineering in 1973. He came back to his home town of Lake Jackson to work for Dow Chemical for the next 27 years. Following his years at Dow, he worked for several other companies, including Bayer, BASF, & Covestro, among others. His last employment was with Zachry Industrial, Inc., where he was a highly-respected expert as a Senior Reliability Engineer.

He married his college sweetheart, Cynthia (Cindi) Allen, and together they were the parents of three sons, Michael Scott Schmerber, James Richard Schmerber, II, and John Earl Schmerber. He adored his sons, his son James’ wife Leslie Carroll Schmerber, and most of all, his two granddaughters, Lindsey and Lauren Schmerber.

It was Richard’s desire to donate his body to science in the hope that by studying his mortal remains, current and future medical personnel could learn something which would prevent others from having to go through the ordeals he endured over the last ten years.

A Memorial Visitation will be held on Friday, December 15, 7:00 -8:00 p.m., at Rosewood Funeral Home, 17404 W. Lake Houston Parkway, Humble, TX 77346. A Memorial Mass will be held Saturday, December 16, 10:00 a. m., at St. Martha’s Catholic Church, 4301 Woodbridge Parkway, Porter, TX 77365. Honorary pallbearers will be his three sons, James Gillenwaters, Mark Jud, Mark Rooke, Kevin Bordelon and Larry Schoppe.

A private interment of his ashes will occur at a later date in Mt. Olivet Cemetery, Dickinson, TX.

Rosewood Funeral Home, Humble, Texas and Bay City Tribune, December 17, 2017
 

Lydia Oldham Schuetz
March 6, 1947 - January 17, 2018

Lydia Oldham Schuetz, 70, of Palacios passed away January 17, 2018. She was born March 6, 1947 to Virginia Nell Motes Oldham and Ney Oldham Jr. She started her Teaching career in Bay City and spent her last 28 years with Palacios ISD.

She is survived by her husband, Dennis L. Schuetz; son, Leland Dennis Schuetz and his wife, Nancy Herman Schuetz; sister, Nancy Howard and husband, Glenn; brother, Ney Oldham III; grandson, Jase Schuetz; niece, Rebecca Howard and nephews, Glenn Wesley Howard, Ney Oldham IV and Nolan Oldham.

She was preceded in death by her daughter, Ann Schuetz and parents.

Visitation will be held Thurs., Jan. 18, 2018 from 5-8 p.m. at Richardson-Colonial Funeral Home in Port Lavaca and again on Fri., Jan. 19, 2018 from 5-8 p.m. in the Funeral Home. Saturday, January 20, 2018 will be another visitation from 1-3 p.m. at the Methodist Church in Palacios followed by funeral services at 3 p.m. with Pastor David King officiating. Burial will follow in Hawley Cemetery.

Memorial donations may be made to the American Cancer Society .

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

Richardson-Colonial Funeral Home, Port Lavaca, Texas
 

Edward Emil Schumann
(March 1, 1924 - March 3, 2018)

Edward Emil Schumann was born in Oklahoma City on March 1, 1924, to Emil and Edna Schumann. Following graduation from Harlingen High School, he enlisted in the Army Air Corps, wherein he proudly served his country as a jet mechanic during World War II. Upon returning home, he married the love of his life, Joan Phillips Schumann.

Ed was a highly-skilled machinist who retired after thirty years with Celanese Chemical Corporation. His sterling work ethic was also displayed in how he proudly maintained his house, his yard, his tools, and his guns with a precision bordering on perfection. In his avocation as an avid hunter, fisherman, and outdoorsman, Ed greatly appreciated and cared for God’s creation. His character could well be summed up in the word, “steward,” in which capacity he showed his love for family and friends more in well-done deeds than in words.

On March 3rd, 2018, shortly after his 94th birthday and just shy of 72 years of marriage, this fine steward left his earthly service to rejoice forever in the presence of his Savior and Master.

Mr. Schumann is survived by his wife, Joan; his son Dennis Schumann (Diane) and daughter Karen Nance (Ralph); his grandson Nathan Nance; grandaughters Connie Schaaf (Heath) and Abby Nance McReynolds (Danny); and eight great-grandchildren. He is preceded in death by his grandson, Aaron Nance.

A graveside service will be held Saturday, March 10, 2018 at 10:00 AM at Roselawn Memorial Park, Van Vleck, Texas. Memorial donations may be made to Calvary Baptist Church in Bay City.

Taylor Bros. Funeral Home                 Photo courtesy of Faye Cunningham

Philip Gardner Serrill
 

Earnest Carl Sewell
July 23, 1929 - January 22, 2018

Earnest Carl Sewell, 88, of Sweeny, Texas was born July 23, 1929 in Hasema, Texas to the late Tennie Lucille Richardson Sewell and William Clifton Sewell.

He passed away January 22, 2018.

He graduated from Van Vleck High School in 1947 and received an AA degree from Wharton County Junior College.  He served in the U.S. Army from 1951-1952 and enlisted in the Reserve Corp 1953-1955.  He began his career at Phillips 66 in January 1953.

Earnest married Alta Faye Williams on December 16, 1955.  They enjoyed 46 years of marriage before her passing in 1999.

Survivors include children, Cheryl Lyn Sewell Staton, Wesley Allyn Sewell (Sandy), Janis Faye Sewell Ososkie (David), and Nanci Lee Sewell Glover; 13 grandchildren; 10 great grandchildren; and one great-great grandson.  He was also blessed with numerous nieces and nephews.

He married Euta Faye Rayburn Reeves in September 1999 and gained two step-sons; two grandchildren; and six great grandchildren.  They enjoyed 16 years of marriage before she passed away in 2015.

After his retirement in July 1986, he enjoyed traveling in his motor home.  His favorite destination was Alaska.  His hobbies included being on the water fishing, floundering and shrimping.  In recent years he loved watching old western movies, doing word searches, putting together puzzles and spending time with his constant four-legged companion, Murphy.

Earnest was a lifelong member of First Baptist Church of Sweeny.  You could always count on finding him in his favorite pew on the 7^th row from the front on the right side sporting his suit and tie.

The family will receive friends and relatives from 5 p.m. until 7 p.m. Wednesday, January 24, 2018 at Taylor Bros. Funeral Home in Bay City.

Funeral services will be at 2 p.m. Thursday, January 25, 2018 at the First Baptist Church in Sweeny with Pastor John Price officiating.

Interment will follow at the Matagorda Cemetery.

Pallbearers will be Allyson Sewell, Ryan Sewell, Dallas Weston, Andrew McDonald, Aaron McDonald and Evan Ososkie.

Carl Sewell and Joseph Ososkie will serve as honorary pallbearers.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Shriners Hospitals for Children, 2900 N. Rocky Point Dr., Tampa, FL ; (844-739-0849); www.shrinershospitalsforchildren.org.

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, January 24, 2018

Johnnie W. Sidney Sr.

Funeral services for Johnnie W. Sidney Sr. 87, of Bay City, Texas will be held Saturday, January 20, 2018, at 12 p.m. at New Hope Missionary Baptist Church, with Dr. T. L. Richardson, Pastor  and the Rev. Murray G. Martin officiating.

Burial will follow immediately after services at Berean Cemetery in Cedar Lane, Texas.

Visitation will be held Friday, January 19, 2018 from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. in the chapel of Green’s Mortuary.

Final arrangements are entrusted with Green’s Mortuary, Bay City, Texas; 979-245-3489; online condolences at greensmortuary.com.

Bay City Tribune online

Johnnie W. Sidney, Sr.
March 28, 1930 ~ January 12, 2018 

Johnnie Wilbert Sidney, Sr. was born on March 28, 1930 in Cedar Lane, Matagorda County, TX to the late Alfred Sidney and Esther Jones.  He was the eldest of three children and grew up in the Cedar Lane community.  Johnnie accepted Christ as his Lord and Savior and was baptized at an early age.  On February 17, 1951, Mr. Johnnie Wilbert Sidney united in holy matrimony to the love of his life, Miss Mary Jane Lewis and to this union 11 children were born: Dian, Johnnie, Larry, Johnnie, Jr., Cheryl, Wanda, Teresa, Donald, Karl, Karen and Sharon Sidney. 
 
Johnnie was a Corporal in the United States Army, serving in Greenland during the Korean Conflict.  He was the epitome of someone with a servant’s heart.  He loved his family, community, and church but most of all, his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

He was a loving husband, father, son, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, cousin, counselor, confidante, and friend.  His genuine warm smile as well as his wisdom and strength will be sorely missed by all who knew him.  His transition from this life to life eternal came on Friday evening, January 12, 2018, in Houston, Texas at 87 years of age.  Loving memories will be cherished by six daughters, Dian Mills of Bay City, TX; Cheryl Rutherford (Melvin) of Bay City, TX; Wanda Pointer (Russell) of Van Vleck, TX; Teresa Sidney of Bay City, TX; Karen Francies (Alvin) of Fresno, TX and Sharon Sidney of Bay City, TX; four sons, Larry Sidney of Bay City, TX; Johnnie Sidney, Jr. (LaTanya) of Banning, CA; Donald Sidney of Bay City, TX; and Karl Sidney of San Antonio, TX.  He will forever be in the hearts of his family, including four sisters-in-law, Irma Jean Sidney of Van Vleck, TX; Hazel Johnson (Simon) of Bay City, TX; Frances Lewis of Bay City, TX; Bessie Lewis of Pearland, TX; and Doris K. Lewis of Haynesville, LA; brother-in-law, Edgar “Dick” Lewis of San Diego, CA; fifteen grandchildren; fourteen great grandchildren; grand godson; as well as a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends along with countless others whom were blessed to have known him.  Johnnie was preceded in death by his wife of 65 years, Mary Jane Sidney; son, Johnnie Sidney; mother, Esther Jones Boston; stepfather, E.J. Boston; father, Albert Sidney; brother, Leroy Sidney; sister, Gertie C. Petteway Edwards; and son-in-law, James T. Mills. 
 

Visitation
Friday
January 19, 2018
4:00 PM to 7:00 PM
Chapel of Green's Mortuary
2702 Avenue C
Bay City, TX 77414-8514

Funeral Service
Saturday
January 20, 2018
12:00 PM
New Hope Missionary Baptist Church
3300 Avenue F
Bay City, TX 77414

Green's Mortuary
 

Hipolito Silva
(August 13, 1924 - October 20, 2017)

Hipolito M. Silva, 93, of Bay City passed away October 20, 2017. He was born August 13, 1924 in Mexico to the late Francisco Silva and Asencion Montalbo Silva.

He was preceded in death by his wife Guadalupe Silva. Survivors include daughters Blanca Silva and Maria Silva; sons Asencion Silva, Francisco Silva, Hipolito Silva, Jose Silva and David Silva; sister Virginia Silva; grandchildren Francisco Silva, Hipolito Silva, Jr., Martin Lopez, Jose Silva, Benny Silva, Margie Ayala, Freddy Ayala, Gonzalo Ayala, Jr., Ramona Lopez, Fernando Silva, Lupe Silva, Cynthia Silva, Raquel Silva, Diana Silva and Daniel Silva and by numerous great grandchildren.

The family will receive friends and relatives from 5PM until 7PM Monday at the funeral home. Funeral service will be 2:00 PM Tuesday, October 24, 2017 at Taylor Bros. Funeral Home with Jose Silva officiating. Interment will follow at Cedarvale Cemetery. Pallbearers will be Francisco Silva, Gonzalo Ayala, Jr., Daniel Silva, Freddy Ayala, Jose Silva and Fernando Silva.

Taylor Bros. Funeral Home            Photo courtesy of Susie Adkins

Edward F. Sliva

Photo courtesy of Heather Serrill Janise
 

James Ronald Simmons

James Ronald Simmons, “Jimmy” to his friends, 96, of Cedar Lane went to be with the Lord April 18, 2018.  He was born March 7, 1922 in Colfax, Louisiana to the late Benjamin S. Simmons and Eula Frances Johnson Simmons.

Jimmy had been a resident of Matagorda County since 1947. He served in the US Army in WWII and was among the veterans who stormed Utah Beach on D-Day.

He loved fixing things and was the “go-to man” if you had windmill or water well problems. A farmer, rancher, jack of all trades, hard worker who loved his family and made sure they were well taken care of.

He was preceded in death by his wife of 53 years Rosalie E. Simmons in 2002 and by 6 sisters and 4 brothers.

Survivors include daughters Eula “Prissy” O’Neal and Rinda Kay Ward (Teddy); grandchildren Lisa Hutson (John Mark), Richard O’Neal, Jr., Jason Otto and Trey Munsey; great grandchildren Lindsey Shaddock (Joe), Joshua Townsend, Dawson O’Neal, Matthew O’Neal and Robert Munsey; great-great grandchildren Madison Belle and Rylie Rose and by numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.

Visitation will begin at 8:30 AM Saturday, April 21, 2018 at Cedar Lane Baptist Church. Funeral service will begin at 10:00 AM with Rev. Mike Patterson and Rev. Jack Hutson officiating. Interment will follow at Roselawn Memorial Park. Pallbearers will be Jason Otto, Trey Munsey, Robert Munsey, Richard O’Neal, Jr., Dawson O’Neal and Matthew O’Neal. Honorary pallbearers will be Richard O’Neal, Sr., Abe Stevens, Teddy Ward, Mark Grisham, Michael Grisham, John Mark Hutson, Joshua Townsend and Joe Shaddock.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donations in his name to Matagorda County Calvary or Phillip H. Parker VFW Post 2438.

Taylor Bros. Funeral Home         Photo courtesy of Faye Cunningham

Jim Edward Slater
September 30, 1962 - April 8, 2018

Jim was born September 30, 1962 to Charles Edward and Juanita Conkle Slater. He passed on April 8, 2018 from cancer. He was a graduate of Bay City High School.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Cynthia Kubsch Slater; his father, Charles (Podie) Slater and step-daughter, Ashlea Dodd.

Jim is survived by his mother, Juanita Slater; son, Gage Rhys Slater; daughters, Tracy Michele Taylor (Nathan), Catherine Jeanette Nell Slater and Kacie Lynn Slater; sister, Terry Lynn Donham (Taylor); brother, Charles (Podie Joe) Slater (Donna);  grandchildren, Charli Rhyanne, Shyler Mavis and Emery Jo Slater, Nokomis Missouri Griner, Zoe Michelle, Micah Paige and Peyton Scott Sebastian; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Bay City Tribune, April 15, 2018
 

Helen Francis McIntosh Smith
September 1, 1936 - December 17, 2017

Helen Francis McIntosh Smith, 81, of Blessing, TX passed away December 17, 2017.

She was born September 1, 1936 in Bay City, TX to Ernest H. and Trixie Isaacs McIntosh.

Helen is preceded in death by her parents; and grandson, Christopher Wayne Smith.

She is survived by her husband, Charlie Wayne Smith; daughter, Pamela Sue Smith Laitkep (Allen) of El Campo, TX; sons, Charlie Wayne (Chuck) Smith Jr. of Houston, TX, and Tracy Lee Smith of Katy,  TX; grandchildren, Aileen Renee' Avendano (Jesse), David Wayne Laitkep, and William Harrison Smith (Jessica); and six great-grandchildren.

Helen and Charlie were married on September 11, 1954 and began their life together in Bay City.  She lived her entire life in Matagorda County.  She attended the First United Methodist Church and St. Paul's United Methodist Church in Bay City and First United Methodist Church in Van Vleck, then attended the First Baptist Church of Blessing for the remainder of her life.

Helen loved people.  She especially loved her children, grandchildren and great grandchildren.

The family will receive friends and relatives 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. Tuesday, December 26, 2017 at Taylor Bros. Funeral Home in Bay City.

Funeral services will be at 1 p.m. Wednesday, December 27, 2017 at First Baptist Church of Blessing with the Rev. Larry Swift officiating.

Interment will follow at Hawley Cemetery in Blessing with the Rev. Charles Cochran officiating.

Pallbearers are William Smith, David Laitkep, Jesse Avendano, Hank Fitzgerald, Al Helwig and Matthew Cochran.

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, December 24, 2017
 

Mary Smith

Funeral services for Mary Smith 74, of Houston, Texas, formally of Bay City, Texas will be held Saturday, January 20, 2018 at 11:00 a.m., at Bethel Missionary Baptist Church with Rev. L. C. Cunningham Jr., officiating. 

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

Visitation will be Thursday, January 18, 2018 at 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. in the chapel of Green’s Mortuary.

Final arrangements are entrusted with Green’s Mortuary at 979-245-3489; online condolences at greensmortuary.com.

Bay City Tribune, January 17, 2018

Mary Smith
March 28, 1943 ~ January 12, 2018 

Mary Evelyn Smith, 74, of Houston, Texas, passed Friday, January 12, 2018. Mary was born to Philip Royster, Sr., and Essie Mae Royster, March 28, 1943 in Bay City, Texas.

Mary graduated from H.E. Hilliard High School in 1961, in which she was engaged in numerous activities. She proceeded to further her studies attending St. Phillip’s College in San Antonio, Texas [1963] studying Education.

She accepted Christ at an early age at Bethel Baptist Church under the late Rev. L.C. Cunningham, Sr.  She was Sunder School secretary, an usher, BYPU, was in the Jr. and Mass Choir, and was a member of the Melody Aires singing group.

She was proceeded in death by her parents Essie and Philip, Sr., three brothers: George Reeves, Philip Royster, Jr., and Ira Royster, Sr., and one sister, Phyllis Royster.

Mary worked at Atlanta Life Insurance until she retired in 1982. She volunteered with several organizations, South Post Oak Youth Association 1999-2005, Divo’s and Divas 2003-2018, and Volunteer 2 Gether 2016-2018 and was passionate about affecting the most positive change in people. She also was a member of the Texas Pride Riderz/Family Matterz Trailride group.  Mary will also be missed by all her domino and card playing partners.

Mary leaves to cherish her memories, 3 children: Kimberly S. Boner, Robbin S. Bryant (ROBERT), and Joice E. Smith, also four grandchildren, three great-grandchildren, a special friend, Roy Morrison; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and other relatives and friends.  Special godchildren: Michael Miller, Shannon Holt and Ranie Matthews.

Visitation
Friday, January 19, 2018
4:00 PM to 7:00 PM
Chapel of Green's Mortuary
2702 Avenue C
Bay City, TX 77414-8514

Funeral Service
Saturday, January 20, 2018
11:00 AM
Bethel Missionary Baptist Church
1200 AVE C
BAY CITY, TX 77414

Green’s Mortuary, Bay City, Texas
 

Ronald David Smith

Ronald David Smith ("Smitty"), age 69, of Bay City, Texas went to be with our Heavenly Father on April 10, 2018 after a long, courageous battle with cancer.

Mr. Smith is survived by his mother, Kate Smith of Hemphill, Texas; wife, Beverly Smith of Bay City, Texas; (step) daughter, Stacia Marek (fiancee' Rudy Robles) of Bay City, Texas; step-sons, Jeff Marquart (Sophie) and Jaime Marquart (Maren); grandchildren, Joseph Ohlau, Lindsey Marek, Justin Marek, Daniel Robles, Aiden Robles, Navy Marquart, Suede Marquart, and Rose Marquart. He is also survived by numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends whom he considered family.

He is preceded in death by his father, Henry Smith; daughter, Katherine Kay Ohlau; wife, Donna Smith; and sister, Debbie Burton.

Smitty was a wonderful man, always putting others before himself. He never complained about the obstacles life threw at him, as he knew that God's plan was greater than his plan. He taught many valuable lessons to those around him and never failed to put 110% into everything he did at work and at home.

A service to celebrate his life will be held on Saturday, April 28, 2018 at 11 a.m. at Calvary Baptist Church in Bay City, Texas.

In lieu of flowers, the family would ask that monetary donations be made to MD Anderson Cancer Center in Smitty's name.

Taylor Bros. Funeral Home
 

Martha Solis
November 10, 1942 ~ April 3, 2018

Born November 10, 1942 in Palacios, tx. She departed this world April 3, 2018 in San Antonio, TX at the age of 75. She attended school in Palacios, spent her married life in the Houston area and remainder of her life in Bay City, TX where she worked for Holy Cross parish for 20 yrs when she retired. Her remaining Christian years were spent devoted to the church and Jesus Christ. In the hands of the Lord, she leaves her surviving children: son René Escalon Jr. Daughter Andrea Lee Escalon grandson Christian Alejandro Escalon, brother Louis Solis, sister Irene Solis, and many family members: cousins, nieces, nephews, and so many loving friends. Visitation will begin Saturday, April 14, 2018 at 9am with a rosary to be recited at 9:30am at St. Anthony of Padua in Palacios. Funeral mass to be celebrated at 10am at the church. Burial to follow at Palacios Cemetery. Martha goes into the kingdom of heaven to re-unite with her loving parents Jose angel Solis and Dominga Gatica Solis and two half-brothers Joe m. Solis and Robert Solis. We will forever cherish a lifetime of memories. Until we meet again in that glorious life we all look forward to… dearest Martha. Good bye.

Angel Lucy’s Funeral Homes, Port Lavaca
 

Barbara Jean Sweeny Sophia
March 15, 1936 - April 1, 2018

Barbara Jean Sweeny Sophia, 82 of Brazoria, Texas passed from this life on Sunday, April 1, 2018.

She was born on March 15, 1936 in Bay City, Texas to Stanley and Annie (Hayes) Sweeny. Barbara was a direct descendant of John Sweeny, who founded the City of Sweeny. She loved spending time with her family and grandchildren.

Funeral services will be held on Thursday, April 5, 2018 at 11 a.m. at Baker Funeral Home in West Columbia, Texas with Emil Schmidt of Gulf Coast Bible Church officiating.

Burial will follow at Cedar Lawn Haven of Rest.

Visitation will be held from 10 a.m. until service time on Thursday, April 5, 2018.

Serving as pallbearers are Jim Barnes, Steve Small, Colton Pannell, John Joice, Mike Rydman, and Melvin (Peanut) Sweeny.

Honorary pallbearers will be Craig Barnes, Trent Sophia, Ryan Pannell, Carl Roberts, Jim Garza, and Doug Merritt.

Barbara is survived by her husband, Lawrence “Jack” Sophia; daughters, Sharon Barnes of Cedar Park and Barbara Sophia of West Columbia; daughter-in-law, Roxanne Sophia of Churchill; granddaughters, Melissa Pannell (Colton) of Aledo, Jeanna Small (Steve) of West Columbia, and Ashley Sophia of Brazoria; grandsons, Craig Barnes of Cedar Park and Trent Sophia of Brazoria; great-granddaughters, Amber Foreman, Kayla Galbreath, Kaurtnei Gartman, Kyndall Stark, Katelynn Pannell, and Nichole Small; great-grandson, Ryan Pannell; great-great-granddaughter, Natalie Hernandez; sisters, Edna Joice and Joyce Dorsett; along with numerous nieces and nephews.

She is preceded in death by her parents, Stanley and Annie Sweeny; son, Larry Sophia; grandson, Tony Foreman; sister, Clara Dorsett; and brother, Melvin “Bud” Sweeny.

Services are under the direction of Baker Funeral Home, 634 S. Columbia Dr., West Columbia, Texas 77486; (979)-345-3232.

Online condolences may be left for the family by visiting our website at www.bakerfuneralhome.net

Bay City Tribune, April 4, 2018
 

Bay City Tribune, February 28, 2018
 

John C. Stansell
March 20, 1944 - December 23, 2017

Dr. John C. Stansell died unexpectedly Saturday morning December 23, 2017 in Victoria, Texas, at the age of 73.

John is survived by his wife, Sally; son, John Arthur (Ellen); daughter; Carrie (Trent Hicks); as well as his much-beloved granddaughters, Jenna, and Annabelle Sellars; and grandsons; John Henry and Emmett Stansell.

He is preceded in death by his father, James Coleman and mother Vivian.

John was born on March 20, 1944, in Matagorda, Texas to James Coleman and Vivian Stansell and graduated from Bay City High School in 1961. He married Sally Machlan on March 27, 1965. Sally and John welcomed son John Arthur into the world in 1968, and daughter Carrie three years later in 1971. John was a kind, patient and loving father, who set a wonderful example for his children through a life so well lived.

After his school, John attended Wharton County Junior College earned his BA from Texas A&I, his MA from University of Houston Victoria, and completed his EDD in 1976 at Indiana University.  John began his teaching career as a graduate student at UHV, taught high school in El Campo was a professor of Education for twenty years at Texas A&M. He went on to become Department Chair at The University of North Texas for eight years, and then returned to UHV in 2006 as Dean.

He taught his last class this Fall 2017 semester, and was a leading light in the field of Reading Education, touching countless lives in his roles as teacher, mentor and advisor.

John was accomplished at singing and playing guitar, and often entertained friends and family with his favorite songs.  He especially loved blues, for and protest songs.  He was an intelligent, thoughtful individual who loved reading and who was passionate about education.  He was an active and dedicated member of the Vestry at Trinity Episcopal Church, Victoria, Texas.

A funeral was held Friday, December 29, 2017 at 11 a.m. at Trinity Episcopal Church in Victoria, Texas.

A graveside service followed at 3 p.m. at Garden of Memories Cemetery on Highway 59 South in El Campo, Texas.

In lieu of flowers, please send donations to Trinity Episcopal Church, in Victoria, Texas, University of North Texas, Texas A&M & Indiana University.

Condolences can be sent to jastansell@gmail.com.

Condolences and memories can be shared at www.gracefuneralhome.net

Services are under the direction and personal care of Grace Funeral Home.

Bay City Tribune, December 31, 2017
 

James A. Steinmeyer

James A. Steinmeyer of Beaumont, Texas, died June 18, 2011 at home among friends. James was born in Bay City, Texas June 2, 1933 and settled in the Beaumont area in 1962.

By invitation he attended the Westminster Choir School at Princeton University, training as an operatic tenor. He left school, deciding against a career in music, not yet aware that God had plans of His own for his life.

He went to work in sales for the Collier Corp., living for a while in Houston, Dallas, and Boston, Mass. At the peak of his sales career, he felt God was calling him to something more, so he left Colliers and moved back to the south, locating in Lake Charles. It was there that God called him into full time ministry as a gospel singer for the Southern Baptist Convention, traveling the south with various evangelists, leading the music during revivals. Yet this was only the training ground for a higher calling. In 1965 while praying to be more useful to God, the Lord asked him to become a pastor, and to gather his own flock, instead of taking an established congregation. He became the founding pastor of the First Century Christian Church. Additionally, in order to support himself and the young church, he began his career as an internationally recognized designer of fine homes and interiors, and as a knowledgeable and respected dealer in art and antiques.

With all his accomplishments and talents, his real passion was for lost souls to come to a saving knowledge of Christ. His personal motto was "To be, rather than to seem to be."
Funeral services will be 1:00 p.m. on Wednesday, June 22 at Claybar Kelley-Watkins Funeral Home with private Interment to follow. Visitation will be 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. Tuesday June 21 at the funeral home.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Verlie and Bill Steinmeyer, and his sisters Audrey and Ann. He is survived by his brother Gene, nieces and nephews: Joane Zemanek, Cathy Thomas, D'Ann Hurta, Carlton LeBeff, Drew Steinmeyer, Gina Nelson, Jill Essbaum, and Jay Schulz. He is also survived by a host of spiritual children, those he personally led to the Lord, and by brothers and sisters in Christ.

To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of James A. Steinmeyer please visit our Sympathy Store.

Claybar Kelley-Watkins Funeral Home 
 

Ross Samuel Sterling
May 22, 1931 - November 6, 2017

Ross Sterling, 86, of Boling, Texas passed away on November 6, 2017 at his home.  He was born on May 22, 1931 in Newgulf, Texas to the late Edmund and Marie Etie Sterling.

Ross was raised in Newgulf and graduated from Boling High School in 1949. He attended WCJC. After serving our country in the United States Air Force, he finished his education at Lamar University in Beaumont with a degree in accounting. He married Betty Asher in New Orleans on April 28, 1961. She preceded him in death on September 7, 2013. The young couple settled in New Orleans for a while before relocating to the Conroe area where Ross worked for Jefferson Chemical as an accountant. Moving in 1977 to work with his brother at Sterling’s Vacuum Service.

Ross enjoyed tennis, cooking for family and friends, going dancing with his wife, drinking a good bourbon, and loved watching his grandchildren playing in their sport events.

In addition to his parents and wife, he was preceded in death by his sister, Rose Marie Davis; brothers, James “Boogie” Sterling, Dewey Sterling, Edmund “Eddie” Sterling and Edward Sterling.

Ross Sterling is survived by his daughters, Melinda Sterling White of Boling, Katrina Sterling Waddell and husband Kyle of Mauriceville, and Valarie Sterling Henson and husband Cliff of Boling; sister-in-law, Suzanne Sterling of Beaumont; grandchildren, George Henson and wife Marianne, Kris Henson and wife Candis, Justin Henson, Caleb Henson, Ryan Waddell, and Mercedes White; great grandchildren, Brayden and Konner Henson, and Charlotte Henson and Jaxson Henson.

Visitation was Saturday, November 11, 2017 at Grace Community Fellowship Church in Wharton, Texas at 1 p.m. with funeral services at 2 p.m. at Grace Community Fellowship with Pastor Matt Sweeny officiating.

Burial was at Evergreen Memorial Park Cemetery in Wharton, Texas.

Serving as pallbearers were Kris Henson, Justin Henson, Caleb Henson, Ryan Waddell, George Henson and Brayden Henson.  Honorary pallbearer was Mercedes White.

In lieu of flowers the family asks that donations be made to Huntington’s Disease Society of America, 505 Eighth Avenue, Suite 902, New York, NY 10018 or at hdsa.org.

Funeral Services under the direction of Wharton Funeral Home, Wharton, Texas.

Condolences may be left at whartonfuneralhome.com.

Bay City Tribune, November 12, 2017
 

August Joseph Svetlik

Photo courtesy of Heather Serrill Janise
 

Copyright 2017 - Present by Source newspapers
All rights reserved

HOME