Martin Leon Walker Sr.
January 29, 1927  - February 17, 2017

Martin Leon Walker, Sr. was born to Lee Otto Walker and Pearl Schmerber on January 29, 1927 in Gulf, Texas and passed from this life peacefully on February 17, 2017 at the age of 90, in his home surrounded by family.

He is preceded in death by his parents; one sister; and four brothers.

He is survived by his wife, Margaret Janet Sellers Walker; two sons; three daughters; 12 grandchildren; and four great grandchildren.

He was a proud WWII veteran.

A memorial will be held at the Thomas Blvd. Church of Christ in Port Arthur, Texas on Saturday, February 25, 2017 at 3:00 p.m.

Bay City Tribune, February 22, 2017
 

Erlinda “Linda” Sainz Welch
February 19, 1945 - November 27, 2016

Erlinda (Linda) Sainz Welch, 71, of Amarillo, Texas, went to join our heavenly father and our beautiful angels on November 27, 2016.

Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m., on Wednesday, November 30, 2016 in Brentwood Chapel at Schooler Funeral Home, 4100 S. Georgia, Amarillo, Texas, with Terry Pevehouse officiating.  Arrangements are by Schooler Funeral Home.

She was born on February 19, 1945 to Joe B. Sainz and Lucia Garcia Sainz in Palacios, Texas.  She attended school in Palacios. She was of the Catholic faith.

She married Willie Gonzales in November, 1960 and out of that union came five wonderful children.  She worked at Bill’s Store in Midfield, Texas, where she touched the lives of many people there. It is also where she met her beloved husband, David Welch. They were married on July 17, 1979 in Farwell, Texas.  While residing in Clovis, NM she started her own house cleaning business.   They moved to Amarillo in 1984 and she went to work for Amarillo State Center Wisdom Apartment, teaching developmentally delayed adults independent living skills.

She was a homemaker, mother, sister, friend, advisor, aunt, grandmother, great-grandmother and above all, a loving wife.  She loved collecting dolls, working crossword puzzles, cooking and always feeding those who came to visit.  Her favorite sitcom was “I Love Lucy”.

She was preceded in death by her parents; brothers, Joe and Albert Sainz; and a grandson, Shane Meyer.

She is survived by her husband of 37 years, David Welch of the home; her five children, Carla (Pat) Meyer of Melbourne, FL, Donna Gonzales of Clovis, NM, Ellen “Tiny” Gonzales of Bay City, Willie Gonzales Jr. of Midfield and Eric (Tammy) Gonzales of Amarillo; grandchildren, David (Mary) Gonzales of Clovis, NM, Brittany Meyer of Melbourne, FL, Josh, Jacob, Jeremy & Jared Gonzales of Amarillo, Zachary Laxson of Blessing, Bethany (Matt) MacArthur of Melbourne, FL, and Morgan Berkopec of Clovis, NM; great-grandchildren,  Adam, Samantha and Anthony Romero of Clovis, NM; Kaitlyn Shane Meyer, Brittany and James Cannon, Makayla and Keegan Klein all of Melbourne, FL; great-great grandchildren, Aidan, Joseph and Noah Romero and Phil Valencia; and all of the kids that call her Memaw; numerous nieces and nephews; three sisters, Olga (Larry) Hill of Odessa, Lucinda Garcia of San Antonio and Otilla Vargas of Palacios.

We would like to thank the doctors and staff at BSA Hospital and BSA Hospice of  the South Plains for the wonderful care that was given to Erlinda (Linda).

There was a visitation from 6 p.m. to 7 pm on Tuesday, November 29, 2016 at the funeral home.

Please sign our online guest register at www.schoolerfuneralhome.com

Bay City Tribune, November 30, 2016
 

Pearl Welfel

March 26, 1920 - February 10, 2017

Pearl Welfel, 96, of Bay City, TX passed away on February 10, 2017.

She was born on March 26, 1920 in Shiner, TX to Louis and Christina Tesar Schaefer.

Pearl had a rich family life of children and grandchildren, all of whom enjoyed many a delicious meal at “Grandma’s” where food was home-cooked and delicious.  She excelled in baking breads, pies, cakes and kolaches.  Everyone who came to her house was fed.  She made sure there was always plenty of food.  She will be remembered by many at Cherry Elementary School where she served as head of the cafeteria for 20 years.  They missed her and her kolaches and kept trying to bring her back out of retirement.  And she won many a blue ribbon at the Matagorda Co. Fair for her baking.

Quilting was another of Pearl’s loves.  Every family wedding, new baby or graduation called for one of her prized works of art. The Holy Cross parish will miss the quilts and baked goods she donated for fundraising sales.  She was active in their quilting group and Altar Society ladies group.

Pearl is preceded in death by her parents; husband, Daniel Welfel; and son Fred Welfel.

She is survived by her daughters, Arlene A. Morris (Ron) of Sarasota, FL, Rosalie Gavender (Melvin) of Bay City and Theresa Milberger (Bryan) of Bay City; sons, Dennis D. Welfel  and Eugene A. Welfel (Sandy), both of Bay City; sisters, Christie Wenske of Moulton, TX and Millie Janota of Gonzales, TX; 12 grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren.

The family received friends and relatives from 10 a.m. until Noon on Monday, February 13, 2017 at Taylor Bros. Funeral Home.

A rosary was recited at 1:30 p.m. Monday, February 13, 2017 at Holy Cross Catholic Church in Bay City. The funeral mass immediately followed the rosary with Fr. Greg Korenek officiating.

Interment followed at Roselawn Memorial Park in Van Vleck, TX.

Pallbearers were Eric Gavender, Isaac Morris, Russell Welfel, Joe Davis, Raymond Chavez and Mike Schelsteder.

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

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

Bay City Tribune, February 15, 2017

Photo courtesy of Faye Cunningham

Dolly Virginia Wells
(February 13, 1934 - February 7, 2017)

Dolly Virginia Wells, 82, of Bay City, passed away February 7, 2017. She was born February 13, 1934 in Altus, Oklahoma to the late William Stewart and Myrtle Baker Stewart.

Dolly married William R. Wells in Eastland, TX on January 22, 1977. They both had their pilot licenses and loved to fly. Dolly and Bill loved taking motorcycle trips and did just that for their honeymoon. Bill was the love of Dolly’s life. They were deeply dedicated to one another. Dolly managed the Sears store in Bay City for years, and Bill ran Wells Automotive Shop for many years. She loved gardening, flowers and birds. Dolly and Bill both loved the beach and everything outdoors. They had a close relationship with their children and had many close friends in Bay City and surrounding areas.

Both Dolly and Bill have had a dedicated team of health care providers whom they have greatly appreciated and loved. The family would like to express their gratitude to all who have helped care for them.

Dolly is preceded in death by her parents. She is survived by her husband of 40 years Bill Wells; daughters, Joyce Wells of Bay City, Ann Reid Maloney of Grand Junction, CO; son Wayne Reid of Ajo, AZ and step-daughter Toy Wood of Livingston, TX; sister Betty Sue Dunham of Fort Worth; grandchildren Leann Goode, Kelly Schippnick, Alyssa Dearborn, David Cale Maloney, Allison Blevins, Ashley De Los Santos, Carrie Wood and Mindy Hickman; 16 great-grandchildren, and nephew Earl Gilbert of Chouteau, OK.

A Memorial Service will be held at 3:00pm Saturday, February 11, 2017 at Taylor Bros. Funeral Home with Bro. Andrew Livingston officiating.

Taylor Bros. Funeral Home

Carl ‘Jack’ James Welsh

A memorial Service for Carl ‘Jack’ James Welsh, 86, of El Campo, were held July 30 at First United Methodist Church in Palacios with Rev. Johnny Kisiah officiating.

Carl "Jack" James Welsh as born January 14, 1930 in Palacios to the late Don E. and Grace Mae Hicks Welsh and passed away on July 16, 2016. He served in the U.S. Navy for nine years and was retired from Celanese Chemical.

He is survived by his wife of 57 years, Virginia Welsh of El Campo; daughters, Patricia Jinks and husband Randall of Vidor, Jackie Welsh and Richard Heinhold of El Campo; son, Billy Welsh and wife Allison of Palacios; 6 grandchildren, 5 great grandchildren; sister, Bonnie Kisiah and husband Johnny of Port Lavaca; brother, Jimmy Welsh and wife Melvina of Brazoria and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; sisters, Kathleen Maddox and Irene Williams and brothers, Billy, Freddie and Emmett Welsh.

Memorial donations may be made to the DAV Van Funds or the Donor's Choice.

Palacios Beacon, July 27, 2016
 

Dan Wendt
May 19, 1928 - July 15, 2020

Lifetime resident of Matagorda County, James Daniel “Dan” Wendt, 92, died July 15, 2020 at his home on Wendt Ranch in Bay City, Texas. Dan spent his final days surrounded by family and friends. Dan is preceded in death by his parents, R.A. and Mary Wendt; his siblings Rudolph, William, and Howard “Tooksy” Wendt; wife of 63 years, Mary “Jane” Wendt; and his children, Jimmy and Ann Wendt. He is survived by his second wife, Ellen Lewis Wendt; his two daughters, Kathy Wendt and Nancy Kubecka (husband, Gene Kubecka); grandchildren, Daniel Kubecka (wife, Lauren Kubecka) and Jenna Sneed (husband, Jonathan Sneed); and great grandchildren Kinsley, Laney, and Callie Kubecka, and Aiden Sneed.

Dan was born on May 19, 1928. Growing up, he quickly fell in love with cattle and began showing them through 4-H Club at the county fair. He said he knew early on that it was his calling and that in high school everyone knew he would be a rancher. He also was very active in Boy Scouts, serving as a Scout Master from 1950-55 where he helped three young men achieve their Eagle Scout designation. Dan married Jane on March 4, 1953. Together, they spent 63 years building a world class Santa Gertrudis herd. They pioneered performance records helping to establish breed standards and international relations still revered today.

Dan served as President of Santa Gertrudis Breeder’s International from 1988-90, and spent many years on its Breed Improvement Committee. He was a lifetime member of the Mid Coast Santa Gertrudis Association; locally served as Chairman of the Matagorda County Cattlemen’s Association, who later honored him in 2018 with the Silver Spur Award, and was a member of the South Texas Cattlemen’s Association. He and Jane were inducted into the Santa Gertrudis Hall of Fame in 2012. Dan also supported Santa Gertrudis youth programs in many ways, one being an annual heifer donation to their national show and eventually contributed another for their Bred & Owned class. Dan was proud to transition ownership of the ranch to his daughter Nancy, son-in-law Gene, grandson Daniel, and his wife Lauren in 2016.

Dan was known for his love of ranching, his dedication and work ethic, wit, and very clearly communicating his stance on things.  He loved his family and close friends, and spent many hours connecting with them in his sunroom overlooking a pasture on the ranch. 

Dan was an active member of St. Mark’s Episcopal Church for 67 years that housed many notable life events: his weddings, Jane’s and his children’s funerals, as well as his children, grandchildren, and great grandchild’s baptisms. His family invites you to celebrate his life while also respecting current public health restrictions on Sunday, July 19 at 2:00pm and onward through viewing his funeral online on the Saint Mark’s Episcopal Church Facebook page, and will be re-shared on Wendt Ranches Facebook page. 

Donations can be made in Dan Wendt’s honor to:

Saint Mark’s Episcopal Church: 979-245-2557 http://www.saint-mark.org/ 2200 Avenue E, Bay City, TX 77414

National Junior Santa Gertrudis Program: PO Box 1257, Kingsville, TX 78364

Taylor Bros. Funeral Home                    Photo courtesy of Faye Cunningham

Jane Vaughan Wendt
December 13, 1934 - December 17, 2016

Lifetime resident of Matagorda County, Jane Vaughan Wendt, 82, died December 17, 2016 at her home on Wendt Ranch in Bay City, Texas.  She was surrounded by family.

Jane is preceded in death by her parents, Corinne Clark and Frank Vaughan; her sister, Corinne Fields; and children, Jimmy and Ann Wendt.

She is survived by her husband, Dan Wendt; their two daughters, Kathy Wendt Riggers (husband, Tim Riggers) and Nancy Jane Wendt Kubecka (husband, Gene Kubecka); grandchildren, Daniel Kubecka (wife, Lauren Kubecka) and Jenna Jane Sneed (husband, Jonathan Sneed); great grandchildren, Kinsley and Laney Jane Kubecka; and sister, Margaret Ottis.

Jane was born on December 13, 1934. Growing up, she and her two sisters loved to play with their pets and take day trips to Galveston. A head cheerleader, homecoming queen, and on the year book team, Jane graduated in 1952 from Bay City High School with dear friends, many of whom she remained close to throughout her life. She married Dan Wendt on March 4, 1953. Together they spent 63 years building a world class Santa Gertrudis herd.  They pioneered performance records helping to establish breed standards still revered today.  Throughout her tenure, she helped sell cattle internationally, foster youth leadership programs, served on the Mid-Coast Santa Gertrudis Board of Directors, the Santa Gertrudis International board, and selected as the first female president of Santa Gertrudis Breeders International.  She and her husband were inducted into the Santa Gertrudis Hall of Fame in 2012.

Jane loved travel and co-owned a travel agency, Travel World, with her sister, Margaret. She was well known for her quick wit, kind spirit, hospitality, and perseverance. Many called her a ‘class act’ of a lady who was always positive despite whatever circumstances.

Jane was an active member of St. Mark’s Episcopal Church for 63 years that housed many notable life events: her wedding, children’s funerals, and children and grandchildren’s baptisms and weddings. Her family invites you to celebrate her life at the visitation and funeral service to be held this week.

Visitation was held Tuesday, December 20, 2016 from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m., at Taylor Brothers Funeral Home, 2313 Avenue I, Bay City, Texas 77414.

Funeral services will be held Wednesday, December 21, 2016 at 2 p.m., at St. Mark’s Episcopal Church, 2200 Avenue E, Bay City, Texas 77414. (Refreshments to follow graveside at St. Mark’s Parrish Hall.)

Serving as pallbearers are Daniel Kubecka, Mike Outlaw, Rusty Atkinson, Erik Wiley, Joe Jones and Lee Vaughan.

Honorary pallbearers are Wes Hall and Jim Corporon.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to St Mark’s Episcopal Church Endowment Fund, 2200 Ave E, Bay City, Texas 77414, Attn: Pam Bullard; or National Junior Santa Gertrudis Association,  “In honor of Jane Wendt”, P.O. Box 1257, Kingsville, Texas 78364.

Bay City Tribune, December 21, 2016                    Photo courtesy of Faye Cunningham

William Dave West
June 12, 1947 - August 29, 2016

William Dave West, 69, of Oakdale, LA, born June 12, 1947 in Bay City, TX, and died August 29, 2016 at M.D. Anderson Hospital in Houston, Texas.

He previously lived in Sweeny, Old Ocean and West Columbia, Texas, before his retirement in 2003, from Phillips 66, Sweeny Complex in Old Ocean. Dave had been Fire Chief for the Old Ocean Volunteer Fire Dept., member of Phillip’s Fire Department, Little League coach in Sweeny, Volunteer at Varner-Hogg Historical Park in West Columbia, Colonel in the Texas Army and was on the board for Austin Town with the Brazoria County Museum.

Dave was preceded in death by his parents, Willard and Deanie West.

He is survived by his wife of 47 years, Judy Benedict West; daughters, Nicole West and Emilie West Davis; nine grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; brothers, Jimmie West Sr. and Sammy West; sisters, Marcia Strelec, Janice Crowell and Peggy Roe; and many other family members, plus his grieving precious dog, Lily.

Memorial services are pending.

Bay City Tribune online, posted September 14, 2016
 

Kenny Westinghouse
(February 11, 1953 - January 21, 2017)

Frank White Jr.
September 21, 1923  - October 5, 2016

Frank White Jr., 93, was born September 21, 1923 in Saltillo, Tennessee, to Frank and Cella White. He moved to Texas in 1925, in time for the 1930’s census. He graduated from Bay City High School in 1947, after serving in World War II in the U.S. Army Air Corps. He obtained a B.A. degree at Southwestern University in 1951, followed by a Master’s in Fine Arts in 1953.

Frank lived most of his adult life in Sugar Land, Texas where he exhibited a big heart for service. He was a member of the First United Methodist Church of Sugar Land and offered many hours of his time volunteering both at the church and for Memorial Southwest Hermann Hospital.

Frank was both a businessman and a teacher. He first taught music at Lake Jackson Jr. High, then moved to Houston, where he co-owned and operated Parker Music Co. for 18 years, and eventually left to follow his true dream of imparting his love of music to band students at Sugar Land Jr. High, from which he retired in 1983.

In addition to his love of music, Frank had many other interests. He obtained his private pilot’s license and scuba diving certifications. He was an amateur photographer and enjoyed camping.

Frank died at the age of 93, on October 5, 2016. He could still proudly recite the Boy Scout Oath and Law, as well as the full alphabet in Greek.

He was preceded in death by his parents; brother, James E. White of Van Vleck; and sister, Ruby Sellers of Victoria.

Frank is survived by his three loving children, Tanya White of Magnolia, James F. White III of Magnolia, Greg White and wife Susan of Katy; four grandchildren, Zachary, Graham and Jessica White of Katy, TX, and Ruby McCoslin of Cypress, TX; as well as three great-grand-children, Giana, Bella and Trey. Other living relatives include his aunt, Grace Burnham (age 103) of Oregon; and his sister-in-law, Della White of Bay City; four nieces; and two nephews.

Frank is also survived by Paschal Cusimano, his dear friend in Christ and roommate at Park Manor Nursing Home for the past eight years. Pascal was a true gift from God, who provided tremendous joy to Frank.

Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m., Tuesday, October 11, 2016; visitation begins at noon, at Taylor Bros. Funeral Home, 2313 Ave. I, Bay City, Texas 77414, immediately followed by a Graveside service at Cedarvale Cemetery.

In lieu of usual remembrances, donations may be made to the American Heart Association.

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

Bay City Tribune, October 9, 2016           Photo courtesy of Faye Cunningham

Hewitt Wiggins
November 12, 1938 - October 13, 2016

Funeral services for Hewitt Wiggins, 77, of Bay City, Texas, will be held Saturday, October 22, 2016, at 11 a.m., at Mother Zion Baptist Church, Bay City, with pastor Murray Martin, eulogist.

Burial will follow at Eastview Cemetery.

Visitation and guest book register will be Friday, October 21, 2016, from 2 p.m. until 8 p.m., at Duncan-Roberts Funeral Home Chapel in Bay City.

He was born in Live Oak, Texas, November 12, 1938, to Felix Wiggins and Essie Tim Brown, and passed away October 13, 2016, in Bay City, Texas.

He was a graduate of Van Vleck High School. Afterward, he attended the night classes at Wharton County Junior College through Bay City I.S.D., where he engaged in Refrigeration and Air-Conditioning.

Hewitt was employed with Bay City I.S.D., where he assumed the position of Head Custodian. During his tenure, he was well-respected by the administration, faculty and students, and retired after 38 years of devoted service. Subsequently, he was a dedicated employee at Bay City’s City Hall for over 30 years.

He was a faithful member of Mother Zion Baptist Church for many years. There, he served as trustee, secretary of the deacon board, chairman of the deacon board since 2011, member of the financial committee and program committee, and also a member of the male chorus.

Survivors include his devoted wife of 50 years, Joyce; and a devoted son, Patrick. Also two sisters, Pearl Perry (Reginald) and Joyce Smedley; four brothers, Roosevelt Allen, Sherman Franklin, Clemis Brown and Arnold Brown; special daughters, Lawanda Hines and Kennisha Bree; special grands, Colby and Alydien; seven sisters-in-law; three brothers-in-law; and a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives and a family of many friends.

Condolences may be shared with the family by fax (979) 245-1537, or online at duncan-roberts@att.net

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

Bay City Tribune, October 19, 2016
 

Dorothy Jean Scott Wiley
May 10, 1936 - April 7, 2017

Funeral services for Dorothy Jean Scott Wiley, 80, of Bay City, Texas, will be held Saturday, April 15, 2017 at 11 a.m. at Enterprise Baptist Church, 2420 Avenue B, Bay City, Texas.

Burial will follow at Scott Cemetery in Kendleton, Texas.

Visitation and guest book register will be Friday, April 14, 2017 from 2 p.m. until 8 p.m. at Duncan-Roberts Funeral Home Chapel in Bay City.

She was born in Wharton County, Texas on May 10, 1936, to John Scott Sr. and Jeralean Wright Scott, and passed away April 7, 2017 in Bay City, Texas.

Survivors include her husband, Recie A. Wiley Sr. of Bay City; two daughters, Sandra Moore of Bay City and Yvette Jammer (Chris) of Sweeny; five sons, Curtis Wiley Sr. (Nichole) of Pearland, Texas, Recie Wiley Jr. (Jackie) of Fesno, Texas, Terry Wiley Sr. (Theresa), and Stanley Wiley Sr. (Adrienne), all of Bay City, and Dontay Wiley (Robin) of Angleton, Texas; four sisters, Quvella Harris of Bay City, Mozelle Westbrook of Houston, Texas, Joyce Punch of Rosenberg, Texas, and Sheila Gooden of Wharton, Texas; one brother, Johnny L. Taylor  of DeCatur, Georgia; and a host of grand and great-grandchildren, other relatives and friends.

Besides her parents and siblings, she was preceded in death by one son, Kerwin Wiley, December 12, 2015.

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

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

Bay City Tribune, April 12, 2017

Gertrude Williams

 Gertrude Williams, 86, of Cedar Lake passed away on Saturday, January 28, 2017. Funeral service will be Saturday, February 4, 2017 at 11:00 a.m. at Bethlehem Christian Church in Cedar Lake, TX. Visitation will be Friday, February 3, 2017 from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. with a Wake Service from 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.at Dixon Funeral Home in Brazoria. There will be viewing at the church on the day of service from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.

Online condolences may be left for the family by signing her guestbook at www.dixonfuneralhome.com

Final arrangements entrusted to Dixon Funeral Home of Brazoria at (979) 798-9113.

Bay City Tribune, February 1, 2017

Mrs. Lydia Williams, Former Resident, Dies in Tennessee

Funeral services were held in Waynesboro, Tenn. Sunday for Mrs. Lydia Williams, 75 years of age. She passed away Saturday, May 7, in Waynesboro, where she has resided the past several years.

Mrs. Williams, widow of the late Chris Williams, was a resident of Palacios for many years.

She is survived by two sisters Mrs. Velma Melton of Waynesboro and Mrs. Ruby Redman of this city and several nieces and nephews.

Palacios Beacon, May 12, 1955

Buried at Walnut Grove Cemetery, Wayne County, Tennessee
 

Hill Winfrey
April 7, 1934 - September 18, 2016

Hill Winfrey, 82, of Bay City, Texas, went to be with the Lord Sunday September 18, 2016.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Lena and Hill Winfrey Sr.; sisters, Eutha Hamilton of Harlingen, Texas, Zerline Anderson of Georgetown, Texas, and Billie Jo Winfrey of Georgetown, Texas.

Hill was a descendent of Thomas Nelson Jr., one of the signers of The Declaration of Independence. He was born April 7, 1934 in Georgetown, Texas, to Lena Nelson Winfrey and Hill Winfrey Sr. Hill, grew up in Georgetown, Texas and there graduated from Southwestern University with a Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry.

In 1954, he began working for Celanese Research in Corpus Christi, and there met the love of his life, Billie Franklin, whom he married in 1955. They moved with their family to Bay City, Texas in 1965, where Hill began working for Celanese Production Plant. He later went to work for Baroid for a while, and then Brokered Chemicals. His Lord led him to make products that he was unable to locate for his clients, thus forming Varichem International, Inc. Hill gave the company to the Lord from the very beginning, always calling it God’s company, and operating with Godly principles.

He was a family man who loved all his family. He coached ball teams for his son and daughter alike. Hill served in the Lion’s Club, was involved in the Rice Festival for many years, and served on the board of many community organizations.

He loved music, led the choir at First Christian Church, taught adult and teenage Sunday School classes, and served in many other capacities for many years. Hill founded and served as President of Full Gospel Business Men in Bay City for over 10 years, seeing many saved and filled with the Holy Spirit. He supported many ministries, including prison ministries such as S.T.P.O., and ultimately founded Turning Point Church in Bay City, Texas, where he and the congregation were blessed to see many more come to the Lord and turn their lives around.

He was loved by many, as he loved everyone. He was an honest, God loving man, and always willing to help others. After a long unfortunate hospital stay, he went to be with his Lord and Savior, and will be greatly missed by all.

Hill leaves a legacy of faith, hope and love to all. Family members left to honor and cherish his memory are his beloved wife, Billie; son, Gordon and wife Lyia Winfrey; daughter, Kimberly Burns; grandchildren, Dustin and wife Samantha Durham, Brandi and husband Dr. Barry Liberoni, Tara and husband Rob Castro, Stephen Burns, and Michael Burns; great grandchildren, Lora Svetlik, Alyssa Castro, Kaitlyn Durham, Alexa Castro, Wyatt Durham, and Lathan Liberoni; sister, Wanda Mehlman; numerous nieces and nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews, cousins, many loving friends, and adopted loved ones.

Visitation will be Saturday, September 24, 2016 at Taylor Bros. Funeral Home in Bay City, from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.

The memorial service will be held at Turning Point Church, 1800 Marguerite, Bay City, Texas, Sunday, September 25, 2016, at 3 p.m., with the Rev. Gordon Winfrey and the Rev. Jim Hardaway officiating.

Graveside service will follow at Cedarvale Cemetery in Bay City.

Serving as pallbearers will be Dr. Barry Liberoni, Rob Castro, Dustin Durham, Larry Quijas, James Boone, Tim Taylor, David Vargas, and Dale Robinson.

Honorary pallbearers are Dr. George Burlingame, Mike Jacobs, Stephen Burns and Michael Burns.

In lieu of floral tributes, the family requests with gratitude that memorial contributions in Hill’s honor be made to the New Youth Building Project at Turning Point Church P.O. Box 657, Bay City, Texas 77404-0657.

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, September 21, 2016              Photo courtesy of Faye Cunningham

Vesta Lou Going Winters

December 6, 1930 - January 31, 2017

Vesta Lou (Going) Winters went to be with our Lord and Savior peacefully surrounded by family and friends, on January 31, 2017, in Sugar Land, Texas.

Vesta Lou was born December 6, 1930 in Pocohantas, AR, but moved to grow up in Pendleton, Indiana, after the death of her parents. She graduated from Pendleton High School in 1948. She moved to California and later married the love of her life in 1962, in Carson City, Nevada. They moved to Sherman, Texas in 1966, then retired and moved to Bradenton, Florida in 1980. They remained in Florida until 2007 and returned to Texas for their Golden years.

Vesta Lou will be greatly missed by everyone that knew her, from coast to coast. She enjoyed many things in life, including nice cars, crossword puzzles, games of all kinds, football, fishing, singing and dancing! She enjoyed life to the fullest and loved spending time with her family and friends and traveling to visit them all. She loved driving her red convertible and loving her little Maltese fur baby, Bodie!

She is survived by her husband of 53 years, James "Jim" Winters; daughters, Denise Johnson of Bay City, TX, Darcy Downie of Troy, NY and Carla Rae Southard of Sargent, TX; four step-daughters, Sylvia Reynolds, Marilyn Ellis and Phyllis Luttrell, all from California, and Gloria Fields of Nederland, TX; and numerous grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces, nephews and cousins.

She was pre-deceased by her parents, Homer and Bell Going; her surrogate parents, Carl and Rosa Higginbotham; her beloved son, Rex E. Southard II; sisters, Mildred Hubbard, Nola Story, Nadine Lemmons and Katie Higginbotham; and brothers, Worthy Campbell Jr. and Home Lee Going.

Services were held Saturday, February 11, 2017 at 11:30 a.m. at Loose Funeral Homes & Crematory, 200 W. 53rd Street, Anderson, with the Rev. Jay Harvey officiating. Burial followed at Anderson Memorial Park Cemetery in Anderson, IN.

Bay City Tribune, February 19, 2017

Alice Sue Wolf

The remains of Mrs. N. E. Wolf, who died at her home in Midfield early this Thursday morning, will be brought here for burial. A husband and small child besides other relatives are left to mourn her loss and to whom the heartfelt sympathy of the entire community is extended.

Palacios Beacon, September 25, 1930

[burial was at Hawley Cemetery near Blessing, Matagorda County, Texas]
 

Walter Lane Wood

January 29, 1941 - February 5, 2017

Our beloved husband, father, and grandfather, Walter Lane Wood (Peepaw), born January 29, 1941 entered his heavenly home from his earthly home in Bay City, Texas on February 5, 2017.

He was a faithful member of the Baptist Church his entire life. Walter spent his childhood in Wilmington, North Carolina, where he met his wife of 54 years, Emily Ann Burt. The junior high sweethearts began their life together on October 6, 1962.  Their love continued to grow through the birth of their only daughter, Teresa Ann Wood, her marriage to Ricky Busha, the birth of their two granddaughters, Sara Alexander and Kristin Straub, and the birth of four great grandchildren, with two more arriving this summer.

Walter served in the Navy and worked many different jobs to provide for his family, including commercial painting, truck driving, and construction. After retirement, he spent his time serving his community. He delivered meals at the hospital, volunteered for Hospice, and greeted everyone who walked into the Bay City Walmart with Christ's joy and love.  His most favorite way of spreading joy was being Santa Claus for the Christmas season for the past 25 years.  Walter was known for his infectious smile and contagious laugh. His short stature paled in comparison to his giant presence of joy that filled every room he walked into. He found satisfaction in serving those around him, wanting everyone to know the love of God.

Walter is preceded in death by his parents, Luella Barfield Wood and John Edward Wood; stepfather, Emerson C. Cooke; brother, Samuel Wood; mother-in-law, Ann Burt; father-in-law, Richard Burt; and sister-in-law, Iva Thomas.

He is survived by his wife, Emily Ann Wood; daughter, Terri (Ricky) Busha; brother, John Wood; sister, Jean (Gene) Bradford and sister, Barbara (Doug) Miller;  granddaughters, Sara (Jonathan) Alexander and Kristin (Andrew) Straub; and four great grandchildren.

The celebration of Walter's life will begin with the visitation on Wednesday, February 8, 2017, at Taylor Bros. Funeral Home in Bay City, from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.

The funeral service will be Thursday, February 9, 2017 at First Baptist Church in Bay City at 3 p.m., officiated by Dr. Mike Zimmerman.

Interment will follow at Cedarvale Cemetery.

Pallbearers will be Andrew Straub, Jonathan Alexander, Terry Busha, Larry Busha, Dylan Falknor and Bill Cross.

Honorary pallbearers are Ricky Busha, Mike Brown, Pat Matthes and the men of the Faithful Sunday School Class.

Memorial donations may be made to First Baptist Church Camp Scholarship Fund.

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, February 8, 2017              Photo courtesy of Heather Serrill Janise

Emily Ann Wood
August 2, 1943 - May 13, 2023

Our beloved mother, grandmother, and great grandmother, Emily Ann Wood (Meemaw), born August 2, 1943, entered her heavenly home from her earthly home in Bay City, Texas, on  May 13, 2023. She was a faithful member of First Baptist Church in Bay City. Emily spent her childhood in Wilmington, North Carolina, where she met her husband of 54 years, Walter Lane Wood. The junior high sweethearts began their life together on October 6, 1962. Their love continued to grow through the birth of their only daughter, Teresa Ann Wood, her marriage to Ricky Busha, the birth of their two granddaughters, Sara, married to Jonathan Alexander and Kristin, married to Andrew Straub. The love Meemaw and Peepaw had for each other will be forever cherished and live on through their 10 great grandchildren Bernadette, Gianna, Gideon, Ezekiel, Abigail, Veronica, Johnny, Olivia, Isidore, & Isabella.  We know their reunion before the face of Jesus was filled with utter joy and Peepaw’s contagious laugh.

Emily loved working with her hands making many crafts. Her love for crafting led her to work with lifelong friends at Threads, Quilts and Creations.  She served others with gifts of comfort pillows during their time of need.  She loved her time outside tending to her flowers, birds, butterflies and gardening. She served right beside her husband with our local Hospice, and she was never more herself than when she was able to join him, as her favorite Santa, to be Mrs. Claus spreading Christmas joy.

Meemaw loved to teach Sara and Kristin how to sew, crochet, and make the best hand biscuits. With the great grandchildren, she did the same, as much as her spunky little self could, while she was quietly fighting chronic illness for the last decade of her life. Emily might have been petite in stature, but her fight for life and love of her family was far from petite. 

Emily is preceded in death by her husband of 54 years, Walter Wood, her parents, Richard and Ann Burt, and her sister, Iva Thomas. She is survived by her daughter, Terri (Ricky) Busha, brother, Robert Burt, granddaughters, Sara (Jonathan) Alexander & Kristin (Andrew) Straub, and 10 great grandchildren.

It is with our deepest gratitude that we thank Dr. Alan Byrd and Dr. Shilpan Shah for their care for Emily throughout her years.  We are forever grateful for the Angels Care Home Health nurses and staff, who lovingly cared for Emily through her many years of fighting chronic illness.  The same gratitude is extended to Angels Care Hospice nurses and aides, who with great love and compassion served Emily in her final days. 

The celebration of Emily’s life will begin with the visitation on Tuesday, May 23, 2023 at First Baptist Church at 1:00 pm. The funeral service will immediately follow and begin at 2:00 pm officiated by Dr. Mike Zimmerman. Interment will follow at Cedarvale Cemetery. Pallbearers will be Andrew Straub, Jonathan Alexander, Terry Busha, Larry Busha, Mike Brown and Bob King. Honorary pallbearers are Ricky Busha and Bill Cross. Memorial donations may be made to First Baptist Church Camp Scholarship Fund.

Taylor Bros. Funeral Home
 

Patricia Laverne Klingaman Woodard
February 9, 1958 - November 20, 2016

Patricia Laverne Klingaman Woodard, 58, of Pasadena, Texas passed away on Sunday, November 20, 2016.

She was born on February 9, 1958 in Bay City, Texas to the late Donald Wilson and Bertha Shafer Klingaman.

Patricia loved the Lord and her family. She was a strong willed person and would help anyone that needed help. Patricia loved to write poetry, and enjoyed crocheting hats for cancer survivors.

Patricia is survived by her brothers, Raymond Klingaman and Ronald Klingaman; sister, Donna Klingaman Walleck and husband Val; longtime friend, Mindee Schrock; aunts, Laverne Stevens and Lois Tidwell; uncle, Gene Klingaman; and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.

Funeral services were held at 10 a.m., Tuesday, November 22, 2016 at Taylor Bros. Funeral Home in Bay City, with Pastor Jay Burnett officiating.

Interment followed at Cedarvale Cemetery, Bay City.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the American Cancer Society.

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

Arrangements are with Taylor Bros. Funeral Home, Bay City, Texas. 979-246-4613.

Bay City Tribune, November 23, 2016
 

Christi Devaughn Martin Woods

May 26, 1959 - January 25, 2017

Funeral services for Christi Devauhgn Martin Woods, 57, of Bay City, Texas, will be held Saturday, February 4, 2017, at 2 p.m. at Martin Luther King Church of Christ, 1908 M. L. K. Blvd., Wharton, Texas.

Burial will follow at Cedarvale Cemetery in Bay City, Texas.

Visitation and guest book register will be from 2 p.m. until 8 p.m., Friday, February 3, 2017 at Duncan-Roberts Funeral Home Chapel in Bay City.

She was born in Bay City, Texas on May 26, 1959 to Lawrence Harris and Dorothy Wysong Harris, and passed away January 25, 2017, in Houston, Texas.

Survivors include her husband, Cedric Woods Sr.; three sons, Brandon Harris (Maggie), Otis Young Jr., and Tony Martin Jr.; mother, Dorothy Rivers; sisters, Linda Kaye Johnson and Dorothy Ann; brother, Anthony Rivers; two grandchildren, Jordan Harris and Madison Harris; and an enormous host of other relatives and a family of many friends.

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

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

Bay City Tribune, February 1, 2017                Photo courtesy of Heather Serrill Janise

Vanessa Woods

Funeral services for Vanessa Woods, 56, who passed away December 23, 2016, are pending for Friday, December 30, 2016.

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

Bay City Tribune, December 28, 2016
 

Ruie Roscoe Woodson

Funeral services for Ruie Roscoe Woodson, 70, were held at 2 p. m. Friday, May 8, at Taylor Brothers Funeral Chapel in Bay City. Interment was in the Midfield Cemetery.

A resident of Midfield since 1913, he passed away Wednesday morning in the Nightingale Hospital in El Campo.

Survivors include his wife; one daughter, Mrs. Arl Hunt of Palacios; two sons, Jack and Gene Woodson of Midfield; two sisters, Mrs. Enis Warn of Palacios and Mrs. Ina Shaw of San Antonio; 10 grandchildren and two great grandsons.

Palacios Beacon, May 14, 1970
 

Charlotte Elizabeth Simons Workman
February 16, 1934 - September 18, 2016

Charlotte Elizabeth Simons Workman, slipped from this life into God’s Joyous Kingdom in the early morning hours of September 18, 2016, after a courageous battle with Alzheimer’s Disease.

Charlotte was born on February 16, 1934 in Edna, Texas to Lillian Hensley Simons and Milam Gayle Simons. She was the third of four children and the only daughter. When Charlotte was young, the family relocated to the Caranachua Bay where she lived until graduating from Palacios High School in 1952. She attended one year of nursing school in Houston, Texas and then married and moved to Collegeport, Texas. Charlotte became a member of the Presbyterian Church in Collegeport and a life-long friendship began with her mother-in-law, Hazel Merck.

During the later 1960s, Charlotte and her family moved to Bay City and she began work at the Bay City ISD tax office. Charlotte seemed to be proficient in the area of accounting. She made dear friends, Bertha Broughton and Doris Shillingberg who seemed to take Charlotte and her family “under their wing.” Charlotte continued to work at the Bay City ISD tax office for approximately 16 years. Charlotte married Clyde Workman, retired, and they spent the next 30 years together.

Charlotte was preceded in death by her mother and father, Lillian H. Simons (Mimmi) and father, Milam Gayle Simons (Papa); her brothers, Traylor Simons, Edwin L. Simons and Milam Gayle Simons Jr.; and her stepson, Rodney Clyde Workman.

Charlotte is survived by her husband, Clyde Workman; her children, Deborah Merck Dennard and spouse Dr. Crayden Dennard, John Milam Merck and spouse Jeanie A. Merck; step-daughter, Rhonda Crume and spouse Jesse Crume; and daughter-in-law, Nita Workman.

Charlotte was a devoted and loving grandmother who absolutely glowed whenever her grandchildren were mentioned. Charlotte and Clyde’s grandchildren are Jon Kelly Dennard and spouse Dr. Elizabeth Eliot Dennard, Mark Christopher Dennard, Matthew T. Merck and fiancé Samantha Richardson, Emilie Merck Nice and spouse Conner T. Nice, Jackson Merck, Kyle Holton, Ashley Maslak and spouse Jeff, Chris Holton, and Megan Sarclette and spouse Andrew.

Charlotte and Clyde had four great grandchildren. Charlotte knew she was expecting a great granddaughter at the end of September. We think she will be watching her much anticipated arrival and rejoicing, too.

The family would like to express their deepest gratitude to Sandra Ford, Sarah Elizabeth, and the staff at Country Assisted Living for giving our loved one comfort, respect, and dignity. Thank you to Dr. Alan N. Byrd, who was always compassionate, professional, and available. Charlotte loved her supportive church family and was a long time member of The First Presbyterian Church in Bay City, Texas.

Memorial services will be held at 2 p.m., Thursday, September 22, 2016, at The First Presbyterian Church in Bay City, Texas.

Charlotte chose to be part of the University of Texas/ Houston Branch Medical Donor Foundation in hope of assisting others.

In leiu of flowers, the family would suggest donations to First Presbyterian Church of Bay City, Country Assisted Living in Danevang, or Houston Hospice of El Campo, Texas.

Bay City Tribune, September 21, 2016
 

Matilda Minnie “Tillie” Wratislaw

Funeral services for Mrs. Matilda Minnie “Tillie” Wratislaw, 62, of Midfield Cemetery.

Mrs. Wratislaw was born July 29, 1922, in Cameron, Texas, and died Sept. 6, 1984, in Midfield.

She was a member of the Lutheran Church, retired from U. S. Postal Service at Midfield, member of American Legion Auxiliary, manager of the American Legion Restaurant in Blessing from 1965 to 1981, a resident of Midfield since 1929.

Survivors include: husband, Rudolf E. Wratislaw of Midfield; daughter, Darlene Anderson of Tres Palacios; granddaughter, Stephanie Anderson and grandson, Jason Anderson of Tres Palacios, sisters: Evelyn Richardson of Bay City and Mary Shurtz of Midfield. She also leaves nine nieces and seven nephews.

Pallbearers will be Lee Richardson, Jr., Michael Richardson, Robert Schurtz, Jr., Troy Wratislaw, Mike Nemec and Vernon Hunt.

Arrangements were made with Taylor Bros. Funeral Home.

Daily Tribune, September 6, 1984
 

Rudolf W. Wratislaw

Funeral services for Rudolf E. Wratislaw, 69, of Midfield will be held 4 p.m. today at the Taylor Brothers Funeral Home chapel with the Rev. Ron Lynn officiating. Burial will follow at Midfield Cemetery.

Mr. Wratislaw was born April 27, 1921, to R. V. and Nora Wright Wratislaw in Ryan, Okla., and died 7:50 p. m. April 19, 1991, at St. Luke’s Hospital in Houston.

A lifelong resident of Midfield, he retired from Mobil Oil Company as a lease operator. He was a veteran of the U. S. Army, serving in World War II. He was a member of Masonic Lodge 411 of Blessing, a life member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 2467 of Palacios and American Legion Post 649 of Blessing. He was also a member of the Lutheran church. He is survived by his wife, Kay Graham Wratislaw of Midfield; daughter, Darlene Anderson of Midfield; three stepdaughters, Mary Doss of Tres-Palacios, Pam Owens of Midfield and Kathy Ramirez of Corpus Christi; one stepson, John Powell of McKinney; four brothers, Ray Wratislaw of San Antonio, Clint Wratislaw of Point Comfort, Dempsie Wratislaw of Port Arthur and Bill Wratislaw of Kingsville; two grandchildren, Ryne and Jason Anderson; and nine stepgrandchildren, Misty, Justin and Dusty Owens, Jackie, Stephanie and Sonya Ramirez and Aaron, Ryan and Jason Powell.

He was preceded in death by his first wife, Tillie, and his granddaughter, Stephanie Anderson.

Pallbearers are A. V. Bosak, Lee Hall Pierce, Ed Armstrong, Bill Hurta, Jack Fortenberry and Robert Schurtz.

Arrangements are with Taylor Brothers Funeral Home, Bay City.

Daily Tribune, April 1991
 

Jim Wygal Jr.

Memorial services for Jim Wygal Jr. will be Saturday, January 14, 2017, at 11:00 a.m. at Agape Church in Palacios, Texas with Elder Eric Young, officiating.

Final arrangements are entrusted to Green's Mortuary 979-245-3489, online condolences may be sent to greensmortuary.com.

Bay City Tribune, January 11, 2017
 

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