Matagorda County Obituaries

A
 


Wanda Darlene Acheson
October 4, 1938 - January 4, 2025

Wanda Acheson, know by many as MēMē, a beloved mother, grandmother and great grandmother, passed away peacefully on January 4, 2025 in Bay City, Texas.  She was born October 4, 1938 in Edna, Texas to GA Quinn and Elizabeth Johns Quinn Koop.  Wanda lived a life rich with love and devotion to her family.

Wanda was the proud matriarch of her family.  She is survived by her four children Branda Stephens & husband Troy, Cindy Brown, Connie Miller & husband Russ and Larry Acheson, Jr. & wife Kim.  Her legacy continues through her grandchildren, Cody McGinty (Lydia), Kelly McGinty, Taylor Brown (Angela), Andrew Acheson, Sr. (Chantelle), Morgan Bullard (Cody), Garret Miller (Ashley) and Jacob Acheson as well as nineteen cherished great grandchildren who brought immense joy to her later years.  She will be missed by her surviving siblings O’Banion Quinn, Barbara Micaletti, Gary Quinn and Evelyn Vacek.

A woman of many passions, Wanda found solace in the outdoors where she nurtured vibrant gardens that reflected both beauty and hard work.  Her love for yard work was matched only by her creative spirit, which flourished through crafting projects that often became treasured gifts for those she loved.

She was preceded in death by several loved ones including Gordon Mathis, grandson Clinton Allen McGinty, sisters Elizabeth Bayer, Ethel Wake and Johnnie Sue Vaness, and brother Troy Quinn, all of whom hold a special place in the hearts of those left behind.

Visitation will be from 5PM until 7PM Thursday, January 9, 2025 at Taylor Bros. Funeral Home.  Funeral Service will be at 10:00 AM Friday, January 10, 2025 at Calvary Baptist Church with Rev. Lane Par Due officiating.  Interment will follow at Cedarvale Cemetery.   Pallbearers will be Cody McGinty, Garret Miller, Andrew Acheson, Sr., Taylor Brown, Jacob Acheson and Brayden McGinty.

As we remember Wanda’s remarkable life – a tapestry woven from threads of kindness- her spirit will continue to inspire all who knew her.  In every bloom that graces our gardens or craft projects lovingly made by her lies an echo of Wanda’s enduring love.  Though she has departed from this world, the warmth of her memory remains alive within us all.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Ladies Auxiliary of the VFW Post 2438 or to Cancer Research.

Taylor Bros. Funeral Home
 


Michael Anthony Adame

April 2, 2002 - August 23, 2025

On August 23, 2025, Michael Anthony Adame, 23, passed away as the result of a car accident in Cleveland, Tennessee.

Michael was born to Mary Jane Trevino and Gustavo (Gus) Adame on April 2, 2002 in Bay City, Texas.

He was raised in Bay City and graduated from Bay City High School in May 2020.

He furthered his education by attending Wharton County Jr. College where he received his welding certification.  He was employed by Gilbert Industry Inc. in Tennessee as a welder.

Survivors are his mother, Mary Jane Terrazas and Stepfather Jesse Terrazas, his father Gus and wife Kathy Adame; brothers Mark A. (Oneyda) Adame, Jason Adame and E4 Specialist Anthony Terrazas; his maternal grandparents Janie Trevino and Silverio Corrales; his paternal grandparents, Gloria Mejias and Gustavo Adame, Sr. and his girlfriend Autumn Deal of Cleveland.

He was preceded in death by his maternal grandfather, Amado Trevino.

A memorial service will be held at 1:00 PM Saturday, October 25, 2025 at the KC Hall; 129 County Rd 146, Alvin, TX 77511.

Taylor Bros. Funeral Home
 


Clarence Adams - Eastview Cemetery - Photo courtesy of Faye Cunningham

 


Gladys Marie Griggs Agu

January 15, 1958 - November 22, 2024

Gladys Marie Griggs Agu, 66, of Bay City, Texas, passed away peacefully on Friday, November 22, 2024, in Bay City.

She was born in Bay City, Texas, on Wednesday, January 15, 1958, to Earl Griggs and Eddie Lou Johnson Griggs.

Visitation and guest book registry will be on Friday, December 13, 2024, from 2 to 7 p.m. at the Duncan-Roberts Funeral Home.

Services will be held on Saturday, December 14, 2024, at 12 noon at Enterprise Baptist Church in Bay City, with Pastor C. Donnell Wallace, eulogist.

Burial will follow at Eastview Cemetery in Bay City.

Survivors include daughter Falanda Joseph (Joe), son Fredrick Agu (Janie), four grandchildren Nehemiah and Faith Joseph and Davieon and Malachi Agu, mother Eddie Lou Johnson Griggs, six siblings Charlotte Griggs Knapp (Randall), Earline, Shelia, Ellis Earl, Johnathan (Diane), and Milton (Elizabeth), three uncles Rev. Eugene Griggs (Ruby), Gifford Johnson, Jr. and Curtis Johnson, plus nieces, nephews and other relatives and friends.

Bay City Tribune, December 11, 2024
 


Louis H. Aguilar

July 4, 1956 - July 27, 2025

In Loving Memory of Louis Aguilar

Sunrise: July 4, 1956 – Sunset: July 27, 2025Born in Altus, Oklahoma

Louis Aguilar passed away peacefully on July 27, 2025, surrounded by the love and comfort of his family at the age of 69. He was born on the Fourth of July.  He was preceded in death by his parents, Virginia  and Domingo Aguilar, his beloved Brother Smiley Aguilar and Niece Sofia Gazca, who now welcome him home with open arms in heaven.   Louis  was a firecracker in every sense — full of laughter, and light. His smile could brighten any room, and there was truly never a dull moment when he was around and a presence that brought comfort and laughter to those around him.

He was a man who found deep joy in the simple things in life—especially the companionship of his beloved dogs, Shorty and Pepe, who were always by his side. Just know they were his protectors, ask Vivian and Prissy.

Louis is survived by his loving children: Shawn Stevens, Vivian Gonzales, Ruby Garay, Louis Aguilar II, April Parada, and Priscilla San Miguel and he also had Step children.  He was a proud grandfather to many, including his first grandchildren: Mario, Emily, Elmo Jr., Oscar Jr., Genaro, Fabian Jr, Lydia, and numerous others who brought light to his life and who were deeply loved by him. Also his great grandchildren and his devoted siblings: Shirley, Dora, Pauline, Estella, Benny, Sammy, and Domingo; as well as many cherished nieces, nephews, cousins, and extended family.

Louis lived a life rich in love and resilience. His kindness, sense of humor, and unwavering support made a lasting impact on everyone who had the privilege of knowing him. His legacy is not only in the family he raised, but in the warmth and strength he gave so freely to others.

He will be deeply missed, but his spirit will live on in every story shared, every laugh remembered, and every heart he touched.

Visitation will begin at 9:00 AM Saturday, August 2, 2025 at Taylor Bros. Funeral Home.  Funeral service will be at 10:00 AM with Rev. Kevin Blake officiating.  Interment will follow at Roselawn Memorial Park in Van Vleck.

“The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.”— Psalm 34:18

Taylor Bros. Funeral Home
 


Frank G. Alameda

October 27, 1946 - December 24, 2024

Frank G. Alameda, 78, of Bay City passed away December 24, 2024.  He was born Oct. 27, 1946 in Glen Flora, TX to the late Belen Alameda and Narcissa Guerra Alameda.

He enjoyed riding his bike around town, repairing bikes and lawnmowers and spending time with family and friends, he especially loved all of his grandkids.  If he was not at home, more than likely you could find him at Whataburger or the donut shop.

Survivors include his wife Estella Alameda; son Frank Alameda, Jr.; daughters Virginia Alameda, Theresa Perez and Frances Alameda; sisters Mary Gonzales, Christina Alameda Pedraza; brothers Donald Alameda, Belen Alameda, Jr.; grandchildren Valerie Alameda, Lionel Galvan, Jr., Brianna Alameda, Marshall Perez, Jr., Benjamin Ruia, Jordan Garcia, Nya Ruia, Jalomo Ramirez, Jr., Josiah Ramirez, Crystal Salazar, Frank Alameda III, Savannah Alameda, Selena Alameda, Lorena Alameda, Julian Alameda, Leon Alameda and Angel Alameda and 18 great grandchildren.

Visitation will be from 5:00 PM until 7:00 PM Monday, December 30, 2024 at Taylor Bros. Funeral Home.  Funeral services will be at 10:00 AM Tuesday, December 31, 2024 at Taylor Bros. Funeral Home.  Interment will follow at Cedarvale Cemetery.  Pallbearers will be Lionel Galvan, Jr., Benjamin Ruiz, Jordan Garcia, Marshall Perez, Jr., Ronnie Aguilar and Adam Salas.

Taylor Bros. Funeral Home               Photo courtesy of Faye Cunningham


 


Sherman Allen - Eastview Cemetery - Photo courtesy of Faye Cunningham

 


Steve J. "J. S." Allen - Eastview Cemetery - Photo courtesy of Faye Cunningham

 



Bride Of Six Weeks Dead
Mrs. Illinois Jordan Altman Passes Away

Mrs. Illinois Jordan Altman died Tuesday afternoon at Eureka, Kan. She had been in poor health for some time.

Mrs. Altman was formerly Miss Illinois Jordan, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. T. F. Jordan, who reside about nine miles southwest of Champaign. She was married six weeks ago.

The body will be sent to Sadorus, arriving some time Thursday evening. Funeral services will be held Friday at 2 o’clock at the home of her parents. Rev. W. W. Wilson of the Tolono Presbyterian church will officiate. Burial will be at Prairie View cemetery.

The Champaign Daily News, Champaign, Illinois, October 22, 1913

Died in Kansas
Mrs. Illinois Jordan Altman To Be Buried at Prairie View

Word had been received here telling of the death of Mrs. Illinois Jordan Altman which occurred in Eureka, Kan., yesterday. Mrs. Altman was the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. T. N. Jordan of Prairie View and was well known in that vicinity. The body will be brought to Prairie View for burial and the funeral will be held tomorrow afternoon at 2 o’clock from the home of the parents of deceased near Prairie View. Burial will be in the Prairie View cemetery. Rev. W. W. Wilson, pastor of the First Presbyterian church will preach the services. Rev. Wilson married Mr. and Mrs. Altman just a month ago at the home of the latter’s parents and they were just ready to settle on the groom’s farm near Eutopia, Kan., when Mrs. Altman was taken ill.

She leaves beside her husband and parents two sisters, Mrs. Frances Emig and Mrs. John Smith, both of Prairie View and two brothers, Theodore Jordan at home and George Jordan of Texas.

Miss Mattie Sedgwick and Mrs. O. Miller of this city will attend the funeral tomorrow afternoon.

The Champaign Daily Gazette, Champaign, Illinois, October 23, 1913

Mrs. Illinois Jordan Altman

Mrs. Illinois Jordan Altman of Utica, Kan., who died Monday after being a bride since September 25 was married to Mr. Samuel Altman, a Kansas farmer, at the home of her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Tip Jordan, at Prairie View, 8 miles north of Tolono. Mrs. Altman took cold on her wedding trip and died from pneumonia. Her many Tolono and Prairie View friends were shocked here on Wednesday to learn of her death. She was faithful in Sunday school work and has endeared herself to a multitude of friends in this community and all who knew her. The body was shipped from Utica to Sadorus and was conveyed in a hearse to Prairie View at the home of her parents. The funeral was conducted by Rev. W. W. Wilson, who performed her wedding ceremony. The funeral was at 2 o’clock Friday afternoon and burial was at Prairie View cemetery, near Prairie View church. The family has the sincere sympathy of the entire community.

The Champaign County News, Champaign, Illinois, October 25, 1913

Tribute To The Memory Of Mrs. Altman nee Illinois Jordan

Miss Illinois Jordan was born in Champaign County, Illinois.

She came to Texas January, 1907, and has made her home with her brother, George Jordan, since that time. When her health failed last spring she went home to see if she could recover it. She was greatly missed among us; and especially did the boys and girls of her large Sunday School class miss her.

Her quiet, unassuming ways, her desire to do something for the good of others and her pure christian life will be memory that will linger with her friends while life lasts. None knew her but to love her. She was a consistent member of the Presbyterian church of Palacios and an earnest working in the Meadow Glen Sunday School near her home. She was married to Mr. Samuel Altman Sept. 25th and went to Kansas to live. But in a few short weeks her Saviour called her home. She died October 21, 1913.

She leaves a father and mother, two sisters, a brother in Illinois and a brother here, also a cousin, Mrs. Eva Elliott of this place.

A precious soul from earth has flown,
And heaven has gained a spirit fair;
While we who loved are left to mourn,
In this sad world of toil and care.
But, oh, the record she has left.
A life replete with noble deeds,
Her gentle smile, her loving words,
Her thoughtful care of others need.
She is not dead, for in our hearts
Her loving words and deeds live on:
While standing at the Great White Throne
She hears her Saviour say, “well done.”

Mrs. Grace Kellogg

Palacios Beacon, October 31, 1913

Mrs. Illinois Altman
Resolutions of Respect And Love

Whereas God in His infinite wisdom has been fit to remove our much esteemed friend and sister Mrs. Illinois Altman nee Jordan from her earthly to her heavenly home on Oct. 21, 1913.

And whereas, we the members of the Turtle Mott Country Club of which she was a good and efficient member feel that in her death we have sustained a great loss.

And whereas, we wish to show our love and appreciation of her worth and our sympathy for the bereaved family.

Therefore, be it resolved that we, the member of the Turtle Mott Country Club extend to the family our deepest sympathy in their bereavement.

And further be it resolved, that as a tribute to her memory a copy of these resolutions be entered on our minutes and a copy be sent to the bereaved parent and husband and that they be published in the Palacios Beacon.

By order of the committee. Ophelia M. Combs, Bertha E. Krieger, Grace Kellogg.

Palacios Beacon, November 7, 1913
 


Ira Thomas Anderson Jr.

May 1, 1936 - January 27, 2025

Ira Thomas Anderson Jr., a devoted husband, father, grandfather and dear friend passed away on January 27, 2025, at the age of 88. He was born in Bay City, Texas on May 1,1936 as the only child to Carmen Stone Anderson and Ira T. Anderson, Sr.

Ira’s father unexpectedly passed away when he was only 4 years old and he was raised by his mother who lost her own father only two weeks later. A friend of his father’s, E. L. McDonald, became a father figure and mentor to him, and very importantly taught him how to give a proper firm handshake.

Ira was very proud of Bay City and throughout his life he continued to maintain relationships and interests there. His Anderson roots also extended to the Austin area where his great grandfather, Thomas Anderson, a native of Pennsylvania, settled in 1861 and built a water-powered grist mill called Anderson’s Mill on a creek that has long since been submerged under Lake Travis. A replica of that mill stands nearby in Volente, along with a historical marker.

Ira developed a profound love for classical music early in life. He played the French horn and performed with the Bay City High School Band and youth orchestras. His passion for music continued throughout his life and for decades he both financially supported and regularly attended performances of the Houston Symphony and Rice University Orchestras.

Ira attended Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore and then Austin College in Sherman, Texas, from which he graduated in 1958. While in law school at The University of Texas at Austin, Ira served a brief stint in the U.S. Air Force Reserves, and after being honorably discharged he often joked about his faithful service as a dental hygienist.

After graduating law school, Ira was admitted to the Texas Bar in December 1962. He practiced law in the Trust Department of First City National Bank in Houston for several years before establishing a private wills and estates law practice.

Ira was a collegiate tennis player and later in life a regular at the Houston Racquet Club playing doubles (and having a beer or two) with good friends well into his 70’s. Also an avid spectator, particularly of junior tennis, he enjoyed travelling to many tournaments with his wife, Frances and daughter, Jennifer, including Wimbledon, the Australian Open, and especially the U.S. Open, which he attened almost annually over a 30-year period.

Ira was a self-taught and successful commercial real estate investor, which enabled him to give back to the many communities, organizations and charities that promoted causes that he valued. Extraordinarily generous with his time and resources, Ira was a committed philanthropist, especially in regards to his beloved alma mater, Austin College. His contributions to Austin College were many, including service on its Board of Trustees from 1974 to 1982, and for a number of years as Vice Chair of the Business Affairs Finance & Investment Committee. He continued on its Senior Board until his death.

Ira loved to travel. In the ‘60s and ‘70s there were many memorable trips to Mexico with close law school friends. In the early ‘80s, his adventures took him to China and Russia before significant easing of travel restrictions, and on a photo safari in Africa. He enjoyed traveling to London with Jennifer and Frances and the St. Paul’s United Methodist Church Choir of Houston, which was invited to perform on several occasions at Westminster Abbey. There were many trips to Paris and other places in France, but possibly the most memorable being the summer of 2014 in Normandy with extended family attending events during the 70th anniversary celebrations of the D-Day landings.

Many people have said that their first meeting with Ira was like reacquainting with a long-time friend. He had a naturally soft voice and demeanor and knack for finding just the right words to comfort acquaintances into immediately feeling at ease with the kind gentleman that he was.

As a close friend said recently, it’s hard to imagine a world without Ira and he will be profoundly missed. Ira had a ready wit and was an energetic and hilarious conversationalist. A prodigious reader with an encyclopedic memory, Ira was interested in virtually all subjects and could display great proficiency in most. Ira had a keen appreciation for the fine arts and was unashamed to express his emotions when listening to a poignant melody or viewing a moving piece of art, particularly a Van Gogh painting.

Ira is preceded in death by his parents, Carmen and Ira T. Anderson, Sr. He is survived by his wife of 53 years, Frances Anderson, daughter Jennifer Anderson Skloss and her husband Ronald Gilbert Skloss of Austin, Texas, and his wonderful grandchildren Gibson Anderson Skloss, Edward Anderson Skloss and Carmen Frances Skloss.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a gift to the Ira T. Anderson Sr. Memorial Scholarship at Austin College.

Gifts may be made online at www.austincollege.edu/giving or via check to 900 N. Grand Ave, Suite 6G, Sherman, Texas, 75090. If making a gift online, please select “Other” designation and specify “Ira T. Anderson Sr. Memorial Scholarship.”

A memorial concert will be held celebrating Ira’s life on Tuesday, April 29, 2025, at 3:00 p.m. at Church of the Epiphany Episcopal Church, 9600 S. Gessner, Houston, TX.

Bay City Tribune, March 26, 2025
 


Elton "Drum" Maurice Ashcraft II

June 17, 1963 - November 4, 2025

Elton Maurice “Drum” Ashcraft II, devoted husband, loving father, beloved brother, & disciple of Christ, passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by his family on Tuesday, November 4th, 2025, after a courageous battle with cancer. 

He was born June 17, 1963, in Bay City, TX, to the late Elton Maurice Ashcraft & Harriette June Findley. He graduated from Bay City High School in 1981. 

Maurice was a decorated soldier, honorably serving in both the United States Marine Corps & the United States Army. 

He graduated with his Associate’s Degree from Texas State Technical College & earned a Bachelor’s of Science degree from Northeastern State University. 

In 1997, he fell in love with & married his wife, Malynn Wilkinson. In that same year, he began his career at Explorer Pipeline Company as an electromechanical technician. Maurice was promoted to Area Manager of the Port Arthur tank farm, later becoming the area manager of the Greenville station. In 2010, Maurice was promoted to the Director of Field Operations in Tulsa, Oklahoma. He retired in 2025 after 27 years of service. 

Maurice loved his Savior, Jesus Christ. He served the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints faithfully in many roles, including as a Primary & Youth teacher, early morning Seminary teacher, Elders’ Quorum President, High Priest Group Leader, & Second Counselor in the Bishopric. 

He was an accomplished marksman, winning numerous competitions & awards. 

Maurice is preceded in death by his parents and older sister, Anna Rochelle Ashcraft. He’s survived by his eternal companion, Malynn, his children, Sarah Rochelle Ashcraft, Morgan McKay Reber, Elton Maurice Ashcraft III, Raleigh Thomas Ashcraft, Lillian Helen Ashcraft, & Isabella Malynn Ashcraft, as well as his siblings, Darryl Hoyt Ashcraft, and Kristen Leigh Ashcraft. 

As a tribute to Maurice, the family invites you to donate blood.

The family will receive relatives and friends 1:00 pm Tuesday, November 11, 2025 at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Bay City, TX. Services will begin at 2:00 pm with Bishop Scott Nance officiating. Interment will follow at Roselawn Memorial Park in Van Vleck, TX. 

Taylor Bros. Funeral Home
 


Richard Ashton Sr.

December 3, 1952 - December 27, 2024

Richard Ashton, Sr., 72, of Van Vleck Texas, passed away on Friday, December 27, 2024, in Houston, Texas.

He was born in Van Vleck, Texas, on Wednesday, Dec. 3, 1952, the son of Horace Ashton Sr. and Clem Monroe Ashton.

Visitation and guest book registry will be on Friday, Jan. 3, 2025, from 2 p.m. until 7 p.m. at the Duncan-Roberts Funeral Home Chapel.

Services will be held on Saturday, January 4, 2025, at 10 a.m., at the St. John Baptist Church in Van Vleck. Burial will follow at St. John Cemetery.

Survivors include an enormous, loving family and many friends.

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

Bay City Tribune, January 1, 2025
 


Joyce Ann Atherton

January 13, 1958 - November 14, 2025

Joyce Ann Atherton (Hanzelka) passed away on November 14, 2025 after a sudden illness.  She was sixty-seven years old and was born, January 13, 1958, and raised in Rosenberg, Texas.

Joyce married Ralph Atherton and they moved to Matagorda County where they raised their two daughters Melissa (Foster) and Tracy.  Joyce attended the University of Houston-Victoria and earned her Bachelor's Degree in Teaching.  She worked for Bay City ISD at Linnie-Roberts Elementary for 20 years before her retirement.  After her retirement, she continued her working journey as a part-time medical transcriptionist.

Joyce loved the simple things in life such as watching the birds and wildlife along with watching her flowers grow.  She especially loved spending time with her grandchildren and attending many events; ensuring they all knew that Maw-Maw was watching their every move, and Jesus too!

Joyce is survived by her husband, Ralph Atherton; her mother Ruby Hanzelka her sister Janice (Marty) Wood of Dime Box, her daughter Melissa (Tim) Foster of Sweeny, her daughter Tracy Atherton of Van Vleck and ten grandchildren; TJ, Alyssa, Dakota, Savannah, AJ and Joyhannah (Foster); Dylan (DJ), Hunter, Trevor, Jason (Atherton); Shelby (Clayton), great-grand-children Joycelynn, and Lillie (Atherton) as well as many dearly loved family members and treasured friends.

She joins her eternal family in Heaven, including her father, Alfonce Hanzelka, and her grandson Parker Jax (PJ) Foster.

Joyce desired to be cremated and the family will be holding a celebration of life at First Methodist Church Bay City on Friday, November 21, 2025 at 1:00pm.

Taylor Bros. Funeral Home
 


Phoebe Austin - Eastview Cemetery - Photo courtesy of Faye Cunningham

 



 

Copyright 2024 - Present by Source newspapers
All rights reserved

 

HOME