Matagorda County Obituaries
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Steve Labuda, 89, of Bay City, formerly of Kingsville, Texas, passed away on Thursday, August 13, 2009. He was a World War II veteran and a longtime member of St. Gertrude Catholic Church in Kingsville.

He is preceded in death by: his first wife, Lillian Makovy Labuda; son, Frank Labuda and grandson, Lucas Taber.

He is survived by: his wife, Noma, of San Antonio, Texas; his children, Jeanne Labuda and husband Michael Taber of Denver, Colorado, Steve Labuda, Jr., of Toronto, Canada, Joe Labuda and wife Norma of Van Vleck, and Therese Burgamy and husband Joe Glenn of Poynor, Texas. Also surviving Steve are his nine grandchildren, five great grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews.

Visitation was held on Friday, August 14, 2009, at Turcotte-Piper Mortuary in Kingsville, with a Rosary recited at 8:00 P.M. A Funeral Mass was held on Saturday, August 15, 2009, at St. Martin Catholic Church at 10:00 A.M. Burial followed at Resthaven Cemetery with full military honors.

Bay City Tribune, Published August 19, 2009
 

MARY LADDIE

Mrs. Mary Laddie, 81 of Van Vleck passed away at Matagorda General Hospital Oct. 19. Survivors include one daughter, Mrs. Winnie B. Thompson of Houston; four sons, Lawrence and William T. Cockrell of Van Vleck; Ben H. Cockrell of Galveston; and Jimmie L. Cockrell of Los Angeles, California; 17 grandchildren, and 15 great-grandchildren. Funeral services will be held at Union Baptist Church, Ashwood, Tx, on Sunday, Oct. 23 at 1:30 p.m. with Rev. Rudolph Martin officiating. Burial will follow in Ashwood Cemetery with pallbearers including Donald Wyche, Darryl Cockrell, William Cockrell, Jr., Sam Laddie, Jr., and Lionel Laddie. Arrangements made through Duncan-Roberts Funeral Home.

The Daily Tribune, October 21, 1977

Billy Ray Laird

Billy Laird, 48, died at his home in Portland, Tx., Monday Feb. 14, 1977 following a long illness. He was born and raised in Wadsworth, leaving from the area 16 years ago to Portland where he was a welder. Survivors are his widow, Mrs. Ruby Laird of Portland; three daughters, Mrs. Gary Breshears and Mrs. Rita Phillips of Corpus Christi and Mrs. Billy Russell of Portland; parents, Mr. and Mrs. H. W. Laird of Bay City; two grandsons, three brothers, Hilliard W. Laird, Jr., of Prescott, Arkansas and Gene Allen Laird of Corpus Christi and James W. Laird of Victoria. Services will be held Wednesday at 10 a. m. at the chapel of Maxwell P. Dunne Funeral Home in Portland with Rev. Dan Bazar of Wesley United Methodist Church of Portland officiating. Graveside services are scheduled for 3 p. m. Wednesday at Hawley Cemetery in Blessing. Local services under the direction of Dick R. Elkins, Bay City Funeral Home.

The Daily Tribune, February, 1977
 

JOAN LAMAR
 

Funeral services were for Joan Lamar, 81, of Palacios, Tx. will be held at 10 a.m. Thursday, March 12, 2009 at the Palacios Funeral Home Chapel with Reverends Andy and Janell Blair officiating. Interment will be at  Hawley Cemetery.

Visitation is scheduled for 6-8 p.m. Wednesday at Palacios Funeral Home.

Mrs. Lamar was born Oct. 2, 1927 in Jasper, Tx. to the late Benjamin Franklin and Mary Cless Long Smith. She passed away March 9, 2009.

She owned and operated the Pier Drive-In in Palacios for over 30 years. She was awarded the Palacios Chamber of Commerce’s Merchant of the Year Award in 1983.

She is survived by her husband, Leonard L. Lamar of Palacios; daughter Melissa Ann Carpenter of Palacios; sons Robert Alton Porter, Jr., Edward Dale Porter and James Gaylord Porter, all of Palacios; brother Ernest Everett Smith; grandchildren Christina Giest, Annie Burnett, Lara Rendon, Eric Carpenter, Scott Porter and Ronnie Porter; and five great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her son, Ronald Allen Porter; one brother, and two sisters.

Online condolences may be shared with the family at www.taylorbros.net. Arrangements are with Palacios Funeral Home.

The Palacios Beacon, Wednesday, March 11, 2009

Leonard Leon Lamar
March 15, 1936 - May 02, 2020

Leonard Leon Lamar was born in Houston, Texas, on March 15, 1936, to Leonard and Bea Lamar. He passed away on May 2, 2020, in Columbus, Texas. He lived more than half his life in Palacios, serving as mayor, county commissioner, volunteer firefighter, director of Palacios Housing Authority, Sergeant-at-Arms in Rotary, member of the Chamber of Commerce and numerous civic organizations, including the Fraternal Order of Eagles.

Leonard was preceded in death by his parents, two sons: Kevin and Jimmy, and his beloved wife Joan. He is survived by three sons: Joel, Larry, and Kenneth; three daughters: Cherylann, Jeannette, and Pamela; step-sons: Bobby, Dale, and Jimmy Porter; sister and brother-in-law: Florence and John Crews; many grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and long-time friends.

Graveside services are 2:00 p.m. Thursday, May 7, 2020, at Hawley Cemetery.  In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to be made to Palacios Volunteer Fire Department or Pet Pals of Palacios.

Taylor Bros. Funeral Home
 

Elizabeth Landers

Elizabeth Landers, 91, a resident of El Maton passed away October 1 at the Wagner General Hospital. She was a member of the Methodist Church. She is survived by nieces and nephews. Funeral services were held October 3 at 2 p. m. at the Palacios Funeral Home with Rev. Tripp officiating. Interment was at the Hawley Cemetery. Arrangements with Taylor Brothers Funeral Home.

The Daily Tribune, October, 1977
 

Mary Ellen "Pickle" Landers, 61, of Markham, died Oct. 19, 2000, at Matagorda General Hospital in Bay City. She was born March 25, 1939, in Beaumont, Texas, to the late Russell and Medora Duron Robinson. Mrs. Landers was a member of the First Baptist Church in Markham and a resident of Markham since 1974. She, along with her husband, owned and operated Bay City Optical.

Survivors include: husband, Ralph Landers of Markham, three daughters and two sons-in-law, Terry and Mark Frick, Linda Landers and Mary Nell and Brent Harvey, all of Markham; brother, Norman Robinson of Beaumont; eight grandchildren, Hannah Seaman, Mark Frick, Jr., Casey Nicole Frice, Lance Steven Frick, Krystal Leigh Rush, Tyler Allen Rush, Jason Lane Frick and Justin Kyle Harvey; three great-grandchildren, Seth Williams Seaman, Tristan and Price Evans. She was preceded in death by her sister, Doris Tubbs and a brother Buster Robinson.

Funeral services will be at 10 a.m. Monday, Oct. 23, 2000, at the First Baptist Church of Markham with the Rev. Howard Harper officiating.

Interment will follow at  Hawley Cemetery.

Pallbearers will be Jason, Eric, and Mark Frick, Dennis Naiser, Tim Seaman and Corey McShannon.

Arrangements are with Taylor Bros. Funeral Home.

A00011A2000OT22, THE DAILY TRIBUNE, Matagorda County, Texas, Sunday, 22 October 2000
 

 
Ralph Landers Jr., 76, of Markham, TX passed away Thursday, November 6, 2008 in Houston, TX. He was born September 3, 1932 in Powderly, TX to Ralph Landers and Elsie Banks Landers. He was a resident of Matagorda County for the past 35 years, and along with his late wife, was the founder and operators of Bay City Optical for 27 years. He was a member of the First Baptist Church of Markham and a US Army veteran of the Korean Era.

He is survived by his daughters: Terry Frick & husband Mark of Markham, Linda Landers of Bay City, and Mary Nell Harvey & husband Brent of Markham; by eight grandchildren and nine great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his wife: Mary Ellen Landers and by his parents.

Funeral services will be held at 2:00 PM Monday, November 10, 2008 at the First Baptist Church of Markham with Revs. Jim Lane and Howard Harper officiating. Interment will follow at  Hawley Cemetery in Blessing, TX. Pallbearers will be Jason Frick, Justin Harvey, Mark Frick, Jr., Lance Frick, Tyler Rush and Timothy Stearman.

Words of comfort may be shared with the family at www.taylorbros.net.

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

Velma L. Landrum
(January 10, 1915 - November 29, 2008)

Velma L. Landrum, 93, passed away Nov. 29, 2008. She was born January 10, 1915 in Gueydan, LA to the late Luphied & Eva Belaire Landry. She was a longtime resident of Bay City, a member of Holy Cross Catholic Church, charter member of Bay City Junior Service League, member of Bay City Women’s Golf Association and member of the Bay City Country Club.

Her husband, E. M. “Nini” Landrum preceded her in death in 1991. Her sister Chloe L. Edge and brother Marvin J. Landry also preceded her in death. Survivors include daughter and son-in-law Chloe & Gus Jones of Kingsland, TX, grandchildren Claire Pursley & husband Jeff, Porter Taylor, K. C. Jones, Steven Jones, great grandchild Taylor Nimmo and sister-in-law Moselle Landry.

Mass will be 2:00 PM Tuesday, Dec. 2, 2008 at Holy Cross Catholic Church with Rev. Casey Jarzombek officiating. Interment will follow at Cedarvale Cemetery in Bay City. Pallbearers will be Marc Landrum, Doug Pursley, Lynn Nunez, Bobby Wilkinson, Jim Matthes, Rusty Green & Scott Peden. Pinkie Logan, Johnny Dickerson, Lindsey Thompson & Billy Penny will serve as honorary pallbearers. Memorials may be made to Holy Cross Church or the Bay City Junior Service League.
 

Elvin Mack Landrum                   Photo courtesy of Gale French

Elvin Mack “Nini” Landrum

September 12, 1914 – February 7, 1991

Funeral services for E. M. “Nini” Landrum, 76, of Bay City will be held 10:00 AM Saturday at the First United Methodist Church in Bay City, with the Rev. Jim Welch officiating. Burial will follow at Cedarvale Cemetery in Bay City.

Mr. Landrum was born September 12, 1914, to Mac and Lela Bond Landrum in Bay City and died February 7, 1991, at Matagorda General Hospital.

He was a member of a pioneer family that came to Matagorda County in 1836. His father passed away in 1918 and his mother later married J. J. LeTulle. He was a charter member of the Bay City Lions Club, a member of the volunteer fire department, a member of the First United Methodist Church, and a member of the Wesley Class. He was on the board of directors and former vice president of the Bay City Country Club, and an active farmer in Matagorda County for 33 years.

He is survived by his wife, Velma Landry Landrum of Bay City; a daughter and son-in-law, Chloe and Scooter Taylor of Midland; six sisters, Juanita Matthes, Hattie Ziegenhals, Ida Taylor, Virginia Peden, Jean Anderson and Mignon Matthews; two brothers and a sister-in-law, Burton LeTulle and Marvin and Mozelle Landry of Bay City; and four grandchildren, Claire Conoly, Porter Taylor, Kirk Taylor and Bradley Taylor.

Pallbearers are Frank Lewis, Bill Penny, Glen White, Mac Gist, Don Haley, John Huebner, Bob Wilkinson and Beadle Moore. Honorary pallbearers are Tom Anderson, Ferman La Pari, Dick Bachman and Bill Fehmel.

Arrangements are with Taylor Brothers Funeral Home, Bay City.

Newspaper and date unknown
 

Gladys Faye Landry, age 57, passed away at the Herman Memorial Burn Center in Houston on March 19, 2009 as a result of an accident she had on December 31, 2008.

She was born on November 4, 1951 in Humble, Texas to parents John H. Davis, Jr. and Edith Halford Davis.

Gladys spent many years of her life teaching, helping and working with handicapped children and Special Olympics events in the Angleton  Brazosport area. She had a special connection with all handicapped children along with a true love for every child she came in contact with.

Gladys is survived by: her husband of 40 years, Joseph L. Landry; three children, sons, Jacob Jake Landry, Levi Landry (Special Olympic Champion) and daughter, Courtney Landry Wright and husband Corey. Grandchildren are Joshua and Kylee Landry; Bryson and Jaycob Wright. Surviving siblings are John H. Davis III, Laughlin, Nevada, Helen Davis Ketner, Visalia, California, Harrison Davis, Des Moines, Iowa; Marie Davis Krenek and Carol Davis Bloomhuff, Brazoria, Texas; David Davis, Danbury, Texas; Joyce Davis Cameron, Bay City, Texas.

She was preceded in death by her parents and three brothers, Phillip Davis, Donald Davis and Wayne Davis.

Her surviving stepfather, Albert Ybarra is a resident of Sweeny House, Sweeny, Texas. She is also survived by many other family members.

The family extends gratitude and appreciation to the caring staff at the Dunn Burn Center, Herman Memorial Hospital and the Life Flight Crew and Angleton paramedics.

Visitation was held from 6 until 8 p.m. Sunday March 22, 2009 at Palms Funeral Home, Angleton, Texas. Services were conducted at 10 a.m. Monday, March 23, 2009 at Most Holy Trinity Catholic Church, Angleton, Texas, followed with graveside services at the Angleton Cemetery.

Online condolences may be sent to www.palmsfuneralhome.com.

Bay City Tribune, Published April 19, 2009
 

Marjorie Moselle Solinsky Landry of Bay City, Texas, died July 20, 2009 after a long and fulfilling life, marred only in later years by the many physical trials she faced courageously, not letting them dim her optimistic attitude. Her lifetime was filled with great happiness, derived mainly from deep religious convictions and the devotion, care, and concern of her devoted friends and relatives. Moselle was born in Beaumont, Texas, on August 3, 1928, to parents Mr. and Mrs. M. M. Solinsky, pioneer residents of the city. She was the much loved niece of Ruth Caswell (husband George) and Lola Bucklin Martin, also pioneer residents of Beaumont. Married to Lt. Colonel Marvin J. Landry, a World War II officer in the United States Air Force¸ with whom she lived forty-nine years, she enjoyed many adventurous travels that located her three years in Yohola, Japan, and four years in Chatereaux, France, where she enjoyed many excursions in search of antiques while savoring also the French culinary delights encountered along the way. Moselle will be fondly remembered as a culinary artist extraordinaire, one needing no cookbook to create never-to-be-forgotten dishes, the recipes often sought after by friends. In addition to her culinary prowess, she painted in oils beautiful still life admired by all. Moselle leaves behind many loved ones: a niece Chloe Jones and husband Gus; a grand niece Claire Pursley and husband Jeff; two great grand nephews Taylor Nimmo and Rucker Pursley; a grand nephew Porter Taylor, along with step grandniece and nephew K.C. and Steven Jones; dear friends Suzanne Green and husband Rusty, Priscilla Wissink, Cornelia Normann-Petersen and husband Torsten, and lifelong friend Myrtle duPerier Watkins and husband Doyle. To share remembrances of the joy of Moselle’s life, friends will gather at funeral services to be held at Taylor Brothers Funeral Home on Thursday, July 23, 2009 at 1:00 PM, with burial in Beaumont, Texas, at Magnolia Cemetery on Friday, July 24, 2009 at 11:00 AM.

Bay City Tribune, July 22, 2009
 

J. C. Langley
(April 4, 1927 - December 7, 2005)

J. C. Langley, 78, of Burkeville died December 7, 2005. He was born April 4, 1927 in Burkeville, Texas to Carey Jackson and Elsie Loraine Kerr Langley. A resident of Burkeville for 25 years, he formerly lived in Vidor and Houston. He was a member of First Church of God in Burkeville, a veteran of WWII and worked as a Supervisor for Southwestern Bell Telephone for 35 years. He is survived by his wife, Porthania Langley of Burkeville; four daughters and three sons-in-law, Peggy & Thomas Gentry of Vidor, Debbie & Farron Wroblewski of Nashville, AR, Joyce Slack of Katy and Myra Sue & Kevin Mayo of Bay City; two sons & a daughter-in-law, Randall Langley of Burkeville & Tim & Becky Langley of Nacogdoches; four sisters R. V. Griggs, B. D. Warner, & Jimmie Johnson all of Burkeville, & Reva Westbrook of Tomball; twenty grandchildren and eighteen great grandchildren. Funeral service will be 2:00 PM Friday at the First Church of God in Burkeville with Rev. Mike Welch & Rev. Rudolph Purtel officiating. Interment will follow at Tanner Cemetery in Burkeville. Pallbearers include Carl Gentry, Gary Gentry, Chris Tallant, Justin Stagner, Uriah Langley and Matt Bell. Memorials may be made to Every Home For Christ, PO Box 64000, Colorado Springs, CO 80960. Arrangements with Taylor Bros. Funeral Home in Bay City. 979-245-4613.

http://www.taylorbros.net/index.cfm
 

Laura Jean (Lee) Lanigan of Texas City passed from this life on October 19, 2009. Mrs. Lanigan was the first woman elected to the school board of TCISD. She was born on December 12, 1931, to Clarence Edward “Buzz” Lee and Nantie Duncan Pier in Bay City, Texas and grew up there. Her father and uncles were rice farmers and cattle ranchers by trade, so she was familiar with farming and ranching her whole life. Later in life, she took over part of the family business in cattle ranching.

Mrs. Lanigan graduated from Bay City High School in 1949, Wharton County Junior College in 1951 and Sam Houston State Teacher’s College in 1953. After graduating from Sam Houston with a BBA, she began her teaching career at Flour Bluff High School and later taught P.E. and business education at La Marque High School for 11 years where she also served as cheerleader sponsor. Mrs. Lanigan served as state president and recording secretary of the Texas Girls Recreation Association which preceded girls’ involvement in UIL athletic competition. She later attended the University of Colorado, Boulder and received a Master of Arts degree in education in 1963. She met her husband while teaching in La Marque and they married in the chapel at First United Methodist Church, Texas City on May 19, 1961.

Following the births of her children, Mrs. Lanigan retired from teaching to become a fulltime mother. She was very active in her children’s lives but continued to pursue her own interests as well, giving her time and energies to many athletic and educational pursuits in the Texas City Area. She served as a Girl Scout Leader and as Director of the South Texas Girl Scout Council; was involved with Little League Baseball, Texas City Rebels football, Art League of the Mainland, and PTA. Mrs. Lanigan was made a lifetime member of the national PTA because of her devotion to education. She served on the Texas City Independent School District Board for 13 years and served as president of the board in 1984. With her love for teaching, she also worked as a substitute teacher in the TCISD, taught courses at College of the Mainland, and was a member of Delta Kappa Gamma (a professional teachers’ society) for 30 years. Mrs. Lanigan was a member of First United Methodist Church of Texas City for over 50 years.

Mrs. Lanigan was most proud of her family and family heritage. She is the descendent of the Alden, Bradford, Brewster, Mullins, and Warren families that came to America on the Mayflower as well as other early settlers of New England. Other ancestors colonized Virginia, South Carolina, North Carolina and Maryland, including Gov. Thomas West (Lord Delaware) of Jamestown. Her ancestors later fought to win independence in the American Revolution, then migrated west to Ohio, Alabama, Georgia, Tennessee, and Arkansas. Eventually they migrated to Texas in the 1820’s and 1830’s, where they fought for Texas independence, some giving their lives at the Alamo and Goliad while others were victorious on the battlefield at San Jacinto.

Mrs. Lanigan has been very active in heritage and historical organizations for many years. She served in numerous offices for these organizations including the following: Daughters of the Republic of Texas, Daughters of the American Revolution, United Daughters of the Confederacy, San Jacinto Descendents, U.S. Daughters of 1812, Colonial Dames (Regent), and Daughters of American Colonists. Mrs. Lanigan received the Sam Houston Award from the San Jacinto Descendents for her dedicated promotion and preservation of Texas History. She served on the Board of Management of the DRT which manages the Alamo for the State of Texas. Mrs. Lanigan also served two terms as chairman of the Cradle Committee which manages the historic law office of William Pitt Ballinger in Galveston.

She is survived by: her husband of 48 years, William F. “Bill” Lanigan, of Texas City; a daughter, Vasser Lanigan, of Dallas, TX; son and daughter-in-law Rev. William F. “Bill” and Katherine Lanigan of Maud, Texas; three grandsons: Will, Andrew, and Daniel Lanigan of Maud, Texas; sister-in-laws Dorothy Wolfe of El Campo, Texas; and Shannon Lanigan of Metairie, Louisiana; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

She is preceded in death by her parents, C.E. Lee and Nantie Pier Lee; brothers, John Knox Lee and Pier Edward Lee; and nephew, Pier E. Lee, Jr.

Visitation will be 5 - 8 p.m., Thursday, October 22, at Emken-Linton Funeral Home in Texas City. Funeral services will be held at 10 a.m. at First United Methodist Church, Texas City on Friday, October 23, 2009. A graveside service will be held at 2:30 p.m. at Cedarvale Cemetery, on Golden Avenue, in Bay City. Active pallbearers will be cousins: Jack Lee, Gary Alberts, James Pier, Thomas Pier, and Andrew Pier, and grandnephew, Coy Radley. Honorary pallbearers will be cousin Jon Abshier and grandsons Will Lanigan, Andrew Lanigan, and Daniel Lanigan; and grand-nephew Cade Radley. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to: either “The Cradle Fund” or the “Laura Lanigan Texas History Educational Fund” of the Daughters of the Republic of Texas address: Karen Clogston, DRT Treasurer General, 25203 Aughton Drive, Spring, TX 77389-5405; or First United Methodist Church, Texas City - 317 5th Avenue N., Texas City, Texas 77590.

Bay City Tribune, Published October 21, 2009
 

Carolyn Bradshaw LaQue
(June 12, 1945 - June 21, 2009)

Funeral services for Carolyn Bradshaw LaQue, 64, of Palacios, TX, are scheduled for 1 p.m. Wednesday, June 24, 2009 at First United Methodist Church in Palacios with Pastor June White officiating. Graveside service will follow at Brazoria Cemetery in Brazoria, TX. Carolyn was born on June 12, 1945 in Freeport, Texas to Olin ”Bill” Curtis and Edith Curtis. She passed away on Sunday, June 21, 2009.

Carolyn went to college at Sam Houston University and graduated with her Masters in teaching. She pursued her degree in teaching at Palacios Independent School District for 41 years. She also was active with the Special Olympics. She was a member of the First United Methodist Church, Delta Kappa Gamma Club since 1976 where she served as past-president and served as a board member of the Palacios Public Library.

She is survived by her husband, Jimmy LaQue of Palacios, TX; sister and brother-in-law Wanda Bellar and Jerry Bellar of Gainesville, TX; son, Jesse LaQue of Palacios, TX; daughter’s; Eva Lopez of Houston, TX and Kimberly Quintero of San Antonio, TX; 9 grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews.

Nicolasa Lara
(December 6, 1941 - March 6, 2006)

Nicolasa Lara, 64 of Blessing, passed away Thursday, March 9, 2006 at the Methodist Hospital in Houston, TX. She was born December 6, 1941 in LaFeria, TX to Ataulfo Guerrero and Rosa Galvan Guerrero. She was a life long resident of Matagorda County and a member of St. Peter’s Catholic Church in Blessing.

She is survived by her husband: Cruz Lara, Jr. of Blessing; her daughter: Cynthia “Cindy” Lara & fiancé Renee Guajardo of Blessing; her sons and daughters-in-law: Freddie & Maggie Lara of Blessing, Gary & Dana Lara of Bay City, Ricardo & Charlotte Lara of Blessing and Mario & Julie Lara of Blessing; by her sisters: Maria Martinez of Blessing, Sylvia Rocha of Wharton, Ursula Longoria of Blessing and Zulema Rendon of Oklahoma; by her brothers: Raul Guerrero of Santa Fe, Ataulfo Guerrero, Jr. of Palacios, Ramiro Guerrero of Palacios and Tiofilo Guerrero of Blessing; and by her grandchildren: Rachel Lara, Gabriel Lara, Sarah Lara, Joshua Lara, Jessica Lara, Jacob Lara, Jordan Carrillo, Marisa Lara, Chelsea Perez, Nicholas Perez, Darrien Lara, and Abrea Lara. She was preceded in death by her parents: Ataulfo & Rosa Guerrero, a sister: Amalia Guerrero and her brother: Ramon Guerrero.

The Rosary will be recited at 6:00 PM Sunday, March 12, 2006 at St. Peter’s Catholic Church in Blessing. The Funeral Mass will be at 10:00 AM Monday, March 13, 2006 at St. Peter’s Catholic Church with Rev. Samuel Appiasi officiating. Interment will be at St. Peter’s Catholic Cemetery in Blessing, TX. Pallbearers will be Pete Lara, Jr., Raul Caballero, Ricky Galvan, Joshua Lara, Jordan Carrillo and Gabriel Lara. Honorary pallbearers will be Jacob Lara, Nicholas Perez, Robbie Galvan and Joey Lara.

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

Taylor Bros. Funeral Home                            Photos courtesy of Heather Serrill Janise

Porfirio Muniz Lara
(February 26, 1930 - August 15, 2005)

Porfirio Muniz Lara, 75, of Blessing died August 15, 2005 at the Palacios Community Medical Center. He was born February 26, 1930 in San Juan, Texas to Cruz Lara, Sr. And Francisca Muniz Lara. He had been a resident of Blessing since 1952 and was a member of St. Peter’s Catholic Church.

He is survived by his wife of 55 years, Maria F. Lara of Blessing; by five daughters and four sons-in-law, Delia and Nick Carrillo, Jr. Of Bay City, Estell Cordero of Puerto Rico, Irma and John Vasquez of Waukesha, Wisconsin, Martha and Ramiro Alanis of Blessing, and Teresa and Carleton Revis of Wilson Creek; by a son and daughter-in-law, Oscar and Kristen Lara of Blessing; by four brothers, Cruz Lara, Tony Alvarado, Vincent Alvarado, and Lino Lara; and one sister, Alicia Pendleton. He is also survived by sixteen grandchildren, Noel Lee Muniz, Michael Rivera, David Rivera, Alex Rivera, Daniel Campos, Jr., Tiana Vasques, Johnny V. Vasquez, Mario Lara, Christopher Byars, Rebecca Byars, John Salinas, Maria Teresa Salinas, Justin Lara, Vincent Lara, Karissa Lara, and Marcus Lara; by seventeen great grandchildren and his dog, Loco. He was preceded in death by his parents, a sister, Maria Fransica Soto and two brothers, Pete Lara, Sr. and Emilio Lara.

A rosary will be recited at 7:00 PM Wednesday, August 17, 2005 at St. Peter’s Church in Blessing. Funeral mass will be at 10:00 AM Thursday, August 18, 2005 at St. Peter’s Church in Blessing with Rev. Samuel Appiasi officiating. Burial will follow at St. Peter’s Catholic Cemetery in Blessing. Pallbearers include, Noel Muniz, John Salinas, Mario Lara, Vincent Lara, Christopher Byars, Mike Rivera, Alex Rivera, and Justin Lara. Arrangements are with Taylor Bros. Funeral Home in Bay City. 979-245-4613.

Taylor Bros. Funeral Home

Photos courtesy of Heather Serrill Janise
 

KILLED BY LIGHTNING.

Raymon Lara, a Mexican, Meets Death While Riding in a Buggy.
 

Jim Bruce and Raymon Lara, a Mexican, was driving in a buggy to Mr. Bruce's place northeast of Wadsworth, Wednesday morning during the shower which passed over this section, when a bolt of lightning struck Lara upon the head, killing him instantly and throwing him from the vehicle. The horse became frightened and ran with Mr. Bruce, who was occupying the seat with Lara, a short distance to the pumping plant where Mr. Bruce feeling somewhat dazed lay down to rest and sent young Mr. Horn back to ascertain the nature of Lara's injuries. He was found dead and later in the day he was brought to Matagorda where he lived with his wife and six children, and his remains prepared for burial by his Mexican friends. Other than a shakeup, Mr. Bruce came out unhurt, but escaped a very close call from the grim reaper--Death.

Lara was leading a horse as he sat in the buggy Mr. Bruce driving. The bolt of lightning struck Lara on the top [of] the head, burning hair down to his neck, and then evidently passing on to the wheel into the ground, as no part of the buggy was struck.

Mr. Bruce was on the streets yesterday and did not show any signs of the fearful experience of the day before. He says he still has a roaring in his head as one would experience who is in close proximity to a great explosion.
 

The Matagorda News and Midcoast Farmer, August 29, 1913

CAROLE JEAN RAASCH LARK

A celebration of the life of Carole Jean Raasch Lark, 67, of Carrizo Springs, Tx., was held Feb. 5, 2011 at Hawley Cemetery near Blessing, Tx. with the Rev. Janell Blair officiating. Family and friends attending shared remembrances of Carole’s life.

Carole was born to John and Athlyn Raasch on Sept. 12, 1943 and went to be with her Heavenly Father after a lengthy illness on Dec. 16, 2010.

She is survived by her husband, Sam Lark of Brackettville, Tx.; son Rusty Woodland and wife Jenn and their children Jack and Lyn of San Antonio. She also leaves behind her stepsons and their children: Scott Lark and wife Stephanie and son Chas of Frisco, Tx.; Stephen Lark and wife Kari and children Payton, Hayden, and Madilyn of Bay City, Tx.; Tom Lark and wife Kandra and daughter Nicole of Frisco, Tx., along with her sister, Debbie Mosier and husband Terry of Palacios, Tx.; and nieces Mary Lynn Roe of Van Vleck, Tx. and Leigh Ann Roemer of Palacios.

Palacios Beacon, February 16, 2011
 

Alvena Kopecky Laslie
 

Markham News

Mr. Cecil Latham passed away at his home on Monday night, February 12,  at 10:25 p.m. after a lingering illness. He is survived by his wife,  two daughters, Mrs. Leo Winters of here and Mrs. Billy C. Strickland of  Pampa, Texas; one son, Mr. Doc Latham of Markham, four grandchildren, five sisters and one brother. Funeral services were held Wednesday  afternoon at 3:00 at Taylor Bros. Funeral Home in Bay City with Bro. Charles  Dooley, pastor of the Markham Baptist Church officiating and he was  assisted by Bro. W. J. Clements former pastor but now of Damon. Burial was  in the  Hawley Cemetery.

Out of town relatives who came for the funeral were as follows: Mr. and Mrs. Birt Bowen, and Mr. and Mrs. Buddy Bowen of Houston; Mr. John R.  Bowen, Mr. Haskell Dickens and daughter of Greenville, Texas; Mrs.  Billy Wolfe and Noble Wright both of Cumby, Texas; Mrs. Lorenia Regg of  Galveston; Mrs. C. W. Byers of Seguin; Mrs. Russell Cooke of Tulsa, Okla., Mrs. Geo. Daley of Arlington, Texas; Mrs. Gene Rex of Sulphur Springs,  Texas; Mr. and Mrs. Enoch Latham of Prenest, Miss.; Mrs. Birch Hauseal  of Memphis, Tenn.; Mrs. Van Allen of Sulphur Springs, Texas; and Mr.  and Mrs. Billy C. Strickland and three children of Pampa, Texas.

The family of the late Mr. Cecil L. Latham wished to thank those who brought food to our home during our recent sorrows. May God bless each and every one of you--Mrs. Cecil B. Latham, Mrs. Leo Winters, Mrs. Billy C. Strickland, and Mr. and Mrs. Doc Latham.

THE MATAGORDA COUNTY TRIBUNE, February 28, 1957

Lula Bell “Lou” Lattie
Feb. 22, 1938 –Nov. 30, 2010

Lula Bell “Lou” Lattie, 72 of Sweeny, Texas, passed away Tuesday, November 30, 2010, at Memorial Herman Southwest Hospital surrounded by her loving family.

She was born February 22, 1938, in Colbert, Oklahoma to Otis and Opal (Wiggington) Reagan.

She graduated from Borger High School and was a Licensed Vocational Nurse and worked for Bay City Hospital, Dr. Ayaz Durranti, and Amy Keffer.         After an illness, she retired from Dr. Keffer, traveled to many places in the Americas. She loved adventure and exploration. She has dined in the White House with President George and Laura Bush.              She loved the doctors she worked for like they were family and she kept checking on her patients she had cared for after her retirement.

Memorial services will be held at 11 a.m., Saturday, December 4, 2010, at Baker Funeral Home in West Columbia with daughter-in-law, Pandora Lattie officiating.

Lou is preceded in death by: her parents, Otis and Opal Reagan; brothers, Donald “Donnie” Reagan and Wayne Reagan.

She is survived by: her husband of 55 years, Lawrence “Larry”  Lattie of Sweeny; sons, Larry Alan Lattie and wife Pandora of Sweeny, Rickey Dale Lattie and wife Debbie of Martindale, Texas; brother, Jim Reagan of Fairview, Texas;  six grandchildren, Chris Lattie, Hunter Wainscott, Jordyn Lattie, Romy Wainscott, Ian Lattie and Rayleen Diaz; special friends, Marilyn Streetman, Helen and Kelly Buckley, Barbara Richmond, Dr. Amy Keiffer, Marie Hall, Sharon Rohrig, Jeannete Nelson and Elvie Lee Matejek; along with a host of other family members and friends.

Most of her life was spent in Borger and Sweeny, Texas. She liked to garden and travel to interesting places.

She was game to try just about anything that sounded fun from neighborhood sports to fishing and mudding on four wheelers. Her favorite hobby was always spending time laughing with her family and friends.      She was a great storyteller and was funny. I do well to get my kids to listen for 30 seconds and get a slight smirk. She could keep us listening for hours and make us laugh so hard our bellies would hurt.

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

Online condolences may be made by signing the guestbook at www.bakerfuneralhome.net

Bay City Tribune, Sunday, December 5, 2010
 

MURIEL THRASHER LAWHON

MATAGORDA - Muriel Thrasher Lawhon passed away peacefully on Sept. 6, 2008. She was born May 7, 1924, in Gulf, to the late Algernon and Rita Inglehart Thrasher.

She was preceded in death by her husband Gene Lawhon and her brother, Bill Thrasher.

Muriel is survived by daughters, Bonnie Chalmers and husband Don and Linda Moore and husband Roy; grandchildren, Robert Uher, Diana Maust, Laura Moore Isenring and husband Bernhard, Justin Moore and wife Dory, and David Moore; great-grandchildren, Andrew Maust and Jack Maust; brother, Elwin Thrasher and wife Billie; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Muriel was a member of Christ Episcopal Church in Matagorda and served on the Altar Guild and as senior warden. She was a member of the Daughters of the American Revolution and the Daughters of Texas Confederacy and was a charter member of River's End Garden Club. She left a legacy of love that her family will cherish forever. Muriel will be remembered for her kindness and friendship to all.

Friends may call at the funeral home Wednesday afternoon. The funeral service will be at 2 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 11, 2008 at Christ Episcopal Church in Matagorda with the Rev. Lawrence Gwin officiating. Interment will follow at the Matagorda Cemetery.

Pallbearers will be Don Chalmers, Roy Moore, Robert Uher, Justin Moore, Joe Lawhon, Carl Thrasher, Glenn Thrasher, and David Moore.

Davant Sterry, Ray Culver, Gardner Serrill, Carl Anderson, Mickey Rehak, Rich Stanley, James Smith, and Jack Thompson will serve as honorary pallbearers.

Memorial contributions may be made to Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation, 9400 N. Central Expy., Suite 1201; Dallas, TX 75231 or to Christ Church in Matagorda.

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

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

Published in the Victoria Advocate on 9/9/2008
 

Tot Lawhon

Funeral services for Tot Lawhon, 84, of Alpine will be held 4 p. m. Saturday at the Geeslin Funeral Home chapel in Alpine. Graveside services are set for 10 a. m. Thursday at Hawley Cemetery, Blessing.

Mr. Lawhon was born Oct. 2, 1906, in Arkansas and died Dec. 20, 1990 at his home after an illness.

He lived in Texas most of his life, spending 44 years in Markham and a number of years in Alpine. He married Leslie Mae Watkins Nov. 17, 1927, in Markham. At the age of 13, he began working in the Texas oil fields and retired at the age of 63. He was a golf pro at the Bay City Country Club for a time.

He is survived by his wife, Leslie Mae Lawhon of Alpine; a daughter, Jeanette Bowers of Alpine; a sister, Lois Oglesby; three brothers, Freely Lawhon, R. B. Lawhon and Joel Lawhon; six grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren.

Arrangements are with Geeslin Funeral Home, Alpine.

The Daily Tribune, December, 1990
 

Robert Lee Lawrence, 72, of Bay City, passed away Saturday, January 31, 2009 in Houston, Texas.

He was born February 20, 1936 in El Campo, Texas to Ernest Kade Lawrence and Geneva Norsworthy Lawrence.

Robert was a resident of Matagorda County since 1965, and retired as a pipe fitter from Celanese. He was a member of the Calvary Baptist Church of Bay City, was an avid outdoorsman and enjoyed hunting, fishing, his cattle, and spending time with his family. He also loved to cook and make beef jerky.

He is survived by: his wife of 53 years, Marie Ann Coker Lawrence of Bay City; his daughters, Ginny Spencer and husband Mike, Lisa Dibbern and husband Randy and Sheri Lee Butler and husband Stuart, all of Bay City; his foster son, Michael Lindgren of Huntsville; sister, Wanda Williams of Victoria; brothers, Eugene Lawrence of Utah, Doug Lawrence, Dennis Lawrence, Melvin Lawrence, all of Victoria and Russell Lawrence of Nacogdoches; his grandchildren, Sandra Hogg and husband Bryan, Kade Spencer and wife Stacey, Trent Tinnin, Robert Travis Tinnin, Lawrence Chase Dibbern, Lauren Dibbern, and Brent Butler; his great grandchildren, Spencer Hogg and Kaylee Spencer; and by numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by: his parents, Ernest Kade and Geneva N. Lawrence; a sister, Bessie Baker; and a brother, Clayton Norsworthy.

The family will receive visitors from 6 until 8 p.m. Tuesday, at the funeral home. Funeral services will be held at 10 a.m. Wednesday, February 4, 2009 at Calvary Baptist Church with the Rev. Lane Pardue officiating.

Interment will follow at Roselawn Memorial Park in Van Vleck.

Pallbearers will be his grandsons, Bryan Hogg, Kade Spencer, Trent Tinnin, Travis Tinnin, Chase Dibbern and Brent Butler.

Honorary pallbearers will be his brothers, Eugene, Doug, Dennis, Melvin and Russell Lawrence.

Contributions may be made to the Calvary Baptist Church Building Fund.

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

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

Bay City Tribune, Published February 4, 2009                       Photo courtesy of Faye Cunningham

VIRGINIA SHANNON LAWRENCE

Services for Virginia Shannon Lawrence, 88, were held Sept. 24, 2010 at Holy Faith Episcopal Church in Inglewood, Calif.

Mrs. Lawrence was born June 4, 1922, the 11th of 13 children born to John and Sylvia Rivers Shannon. She left for the “Mansion in the Sky” on Sept. 16, 2010.

She was an anointed child and became a founding members of the West Palacios Church of God of Prophecy at the age of 9. At the age of 10 she followed the call of Evangelism and sang in revivals while her sister, Dorothy Deadrick, preached and helped establish missions for the church in the early days.

Virginia excelled at everything: professional homemaker, master gardening, interior decorating, seamstress, bookkeeping, gourmet cooking, home improvements, and fundraising. She was a church clerk and treasurer (35 yrs.), Sunday School teacher (30-yrs.) and song leader (35-yrs).

She leaves to cherish her memory her children Lee (Danny) Lawrence III, Tisa Lawrence-Burrell, Kimberly Lawrence-Clayborn and son-in-law Gregory; grandchildren James M. Jordan, Shannon Lawrence and Lee Lawrence IV; great-grandchildren Lee Lawrence V, Jamila, Jade Luna and Roy; brother Troy Shannon of Merced, Calif.; beloved sister and best friend Dora Lewis of Palacios, Tx. and Johnnie Nelson of Los Angeles, Calif.

She was preceded into Glory by her beloved brothers and sisters Winnie Shannon, Adelaide Williams, Myrtle Deadrick, Calanthe Deadrick, Grace Carter, Dorothy Deadrick, Estella and Vera Reed, and Willie Shannon.

The Palacios Beacon, September 29, 2010
 

HORACE LAWS

BAY CITY- Funeral services for Horace Laws, 85, of Bay City, who passed away Aug. 16, 2008, will be held Saturday, Aug. 23, 2008, at 11 a.m., at Mother Zion Baptist Church, Bay City, with the Rev. Murray Martin, eulogist. Burial will follow at Eastview Cemetery.

Visitation will be Friday from 2 until 8 p.m. at the chapel.

Survivors include his wife of 63 years, Georgia Johnson Laws of Bay City; a nephew he reared, Earl Laws; and two sisters, Vera Laws of Bay City and Gladys Langston of Houston; also a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

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

Published in the Victoria Advocate on 8/22/2008

Photo courtesy of Tresmond Scott

Capt. G. Lawson, Soldier-Lawyer, Claimed By Death
(Palacios Beacon)
 

Capt. Gordon Lawson, about 45, Houston attorney, died on the way to a hospital after his car had been struck by an International-Great Northern train at the Hardy Street road crossing at 10:30 a. m. Friday.
 

The above news came to Palacios relatives of Captain Lawson, Friday at noon and his brother, Grover, immediately went to Houston in response to this sad message.

The remains of Capt. Lawson were brought to Palacios on the S. P. train Saturday noon and a large number of loved ones and sympathizing friends were in waiting at the depot to carry the body to the home of Grover Lawson, where funeral services were held at 3 o'clock by Rev. G. F. Gillespie.

The most beautiful floral offerings were brought by relatives, friends, and neighbors and clients and tenderly placed for him whom they had loved and known, and only words of high esteem and kindly praise can be said of Captain Lawson in all of his dealings with friend or foe.

Captain Lawson lived in Palacios a number of years ago and later moved to Houston where he entered the practice of law. It is said of him that he never prosecuted a person in any case, he would always be on the defending side. He never spoke ill of a person, saying only the kind things or none at all of any one. His idea of a true life was "let me live by the side of life's road, and be a friend to man."

Capt. Lawson was an attorney of Texas-wide reputation, a 32nd Degree Mason, Spanish-American War soldier, Captain in the World War and a member of the American Legion. He was a good son to his mother, a kind brother, a wonderful father, a true neighbor and a worthy citizen.

For the past two years he had been under the careful watch of the Government Hospital in Houston as he was injured during the World War and from which he had never fully recovered, but he was able to be actively engaged in his law practice all the time.

Capt. Lawson is survived by his mother, Mrs. W. H. Lawson, three brothers, E. E. Lawson of Alice, Lee Roy of Taft, Grover of this city; two daughters, Mrs. Butler Allen and Willie Lawson of Palacios.

A number of friends came from Houston, Wharton, Bay City to attend his funeral. The services at the cemetery were conducted by the Masonic Lodge. Beautiful flowers and evergreen were banked around the grave and the U. S. flag in evidence of his valor and loyalty.

The active pall-bearers were: John Bowden, W. C. Gray, W. H. Williams, J. A. Louderback, Jack Appleton and Grady Walker.
 

The following poem was written by Captain Lawson, and he lived the lines he wrote.

 

The Daily Tribune, January 21, 1929
 

Beverley J. Leach, 81, of Greenville, Texas died on March 1, 2009 at the Medical Center of Plano (ICU).

She was born in Greenville, Texas on July 6, 1927 to Millard F. Hart and Nora B. Hammond. She was married in 1966 in Dallas, Texas to Elton Leach.

She attended college at East Texas State, Commerce, Texas, taught school in Kemp and Palacios, Texas. She then became a flight attendant for American Airlines for five years. She went back to college to obtain her masters degree and taught school in Bay City, Texas for 20 years before her retirement. She was a member of Ridgecrest Baptist Church.

She is survived by: her son, Michael Leach and wife Raquel of Plano; sister, Nancy Woodall of Greenville; grandchildren, Jonathon, Julia and Gabriella Leach; sister-in-law, Shirley Hart of Bay City, and several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by: her parents; her husband; and two brothers William and Wally Hart.

Funeral services will be at 2 p.m. Wednesday, March 4, 2009 at Coker Mathews Chapel with the Dr. David Stubblefield. Burial will be in Wieland Cemetery. Pallbearers will be Peter Zamani, Steve, Silver, Ralph Schwindt, Wendell Jeter, Robbie Robinson, and Charlie Smith.

Visitation was from 6 until 8 p.m. Tuesday, March 3, 2009 at the funeral home.

Bay City Tribune, Published March 4, 2009

Kenneth Alan Leaf, 55, of Lake Jackson, Texas passed away Wednesday, August 19, 2009 in his home.

He was born July 30, 1954 in Providence, Rhode Island to Stanley and Bernice Leaf.

Ken began his life long passion for riding motorcycles while growing up in East Providence, Rhode Island. He spent the last 4 years as a member of the Bonneville Nationals Inc. holding 3 world land speed records in the 500cc pushrod engine class, on his Buell Motorcycle. His favorite pastime was working with his son and friends preparing for speed week and the Salt Flats. He was a member of the First Baptist Church of Lake Jackson and his ride to the Lord has been completed.

Ken spent his entire career in the nuclear power field, most recently at the South Texas Nuclear Project. He was the owner of Energy & Motion Consulting Inc.

Kens children were the light of his life. His son, K. C., was his best friend and his eyes lit up when he was with his daughter. He was a beloved husband and father and will be dearly missed.

He is survived by: his wife, Cynthia, of Lake Jackson; his daughter, Amanda Leaf of Clear Lake and his son, K. C. Leaf and his wife, Sarah, of Lake Jackson; father, Stanley Leaf and wife, Eva, of East Providence, Rhode Island; two brothers, Kevin Leaf of East Providence and Stephen Leaf and wife, Marcille, of Soddy Daisy, Tennessee, twelve nieces and two nephews.

Funeral services were Sunday, August 23, 2009 at 3 p.m. at the Lakewood Chapel with the Bro. Mike Zimmerman officiating.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the American Heart Association.

Online condolences may be made at freeportlakewoodfuneralhomes.com

Bay City Tribune, Published August 26, 2009
 

Julius Henry Ledwig, Sr., 74, of Bay City passed away October 18, 2009. He was born December 17, 1934 in Myersville, Texas to the late Frank and Julia Hahn Ledwig. He was a longtime farmer and rancher and served as a board member for a number of organizations in Matagorda County.

Four of his brothers Mike Ledwig, Alois Ledwig, Leo Ledwig and Stanley Ledwig all preceded him in death.

Survivors include: his wife of 46 years, Vlasta Ledwig of Bay City; daughter, Sandy Knight and husband Hal of Richmond; two sons, Scott Ledwig and wife Cheryl of El Maton and Jay Ledwig and wife Carol of Blessing; three sisters, Margaret Meador and Bernice Davis both of Bay City and Elizabeth Mariner of Van Vleck; four brothers, Ignatz Joe Ledwig and Milton Ledwig both of Bay City, Joe Ledwig of Delcambre, Louisiana and Henry Ledwig of Palacios; seven grandchildren, Luke, Meaghan, Mason and Natalie Ledwig, Karmen Cooley, Kristi Knight and Kassie Knight and two great grandchildren.

Honorary Pallbearers will be: Earl Halfen, Ross Cole, Michael Ledwig, Dewayne Ledwig, Bill Phillips, Carl King, James Pawlosky, John Dickerson, Jimmy Henkes, and Charles Hahn.

A rosary was held at 7 p.m. Tuesday October 20, 2009 at Taylor Bros. Funeral Home.

Mass will be held at 10 a.m. Wednesday, October 21, 2009 at Holy Cross Catholic Church with the Rev. Joe Varana officiating.

Interment will follow at Hawley Cemetery.

Pallbearers will be: Ignatz Joe Ledwig Jr., Larry Ledwig, Kenny Ledwig, Otha Meador Jr., Donnie McCabe, and Pat Brown.

Memorials may be made to M.D. Anderson Hospital, 1515 Holcombe Blvd., Houston, TX 77030 or Cure PSP, Executive Plan 3, 11350 McCormick Rd. Suite 906, Hunt Valley, MD 21031.

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

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

Bay City Tribune, Published October 21, 2009                                                         Photo courtesy of Heather Serrill Janise

Luella Bender Ledwig
(February 8, 1928 - August 2, 2006)

Luella Bender Ledwig, 78, of Bay City, Texas passed on to be with her heavenly Father, Wednesday August 2, 2006 in Houston, Texas. She was born February 8, 1928 in Cat Springs, TX. to the late Albert R. Bender and Vera Garling Bender. She was a member of Calvary Baptist Church and she was very involved in many local organizations of Matagorda County. She loved her family and loved to serve others.

She is survived by her loving husband of 58 years Ignatz Joe Ledwig of Bay City, daughter and her husband; Linda Sue and Jimmy Richardson of Fredericksburg, TX., sons; Ignatz Joe Ledwig, Jr. of Cleburne, TX., Donald Ray Ledwig of Bay City. Sisters; Dorothy Fojtik of Galveston, Ruby Lee Dierks, Vera Gates both of Kingman, AZ. Brothers; Frank Bender of Brenham, TX. , Harry Bender of Green Valley, AZ., Albert Bender, Jr. of Madisonville, TX. , and Earl Bender of Kingman, AZ. and their families. She is also survived by her grandchildren; Jill Tabor and her husband Russell, Stuart Richardson, Bobbe Smalley and her husband Jeff, Brice Ledwig and his wife Maria, and Zach Williamson IV and her great grandchildren; Hailey, Courtney and Jayce Smalley, Zach Williamson, V. and Joshua Tabor. And her extended family and many , many friends. She is preceded in death by her parents, sisters; Bernice Bender, Anna Mae Coker, and Betty Jean Harvey, and brothers; Vernon, Wilburn and Lester Bender.

Funeral service will be held at 2:00 P.M. Sunday Aug. 6, 2006 at Calvary Baptist Church with Rev. Chester Sassman officiating. Interment will follow at Roselawn Memorial Park in Van Vleck. There will be family visitation Saturday from 6:00 P.M. to 8:00 P.M.

Arrangement by Taylor Bros. Funeral Home 979-245-4613

www.taylorbros.net

James L. Lee Dies Sunday

Mr. James L. Lee, 64, of 1204 Ave. F., died at Matagorda General Hospital Sunday.

He is survived by his wife, Mrs. Bessie Lee; one daughter, Mrs. Gwendoline Hoover of Bay City and one son, J. T. Lee of Los Angeles, Cal.

Funeral services are set for Wednesday afternoon at 2:00 from Taylor Bros. Funeral Home with Rev. Garnet House officiating.

Graveside services at Roselawn Cemetery will be conducted by Masons.

The Daily Tribune, Monday, November 25, 1957, page 1

Pier Edward "Bubba" Lee, Jr.

Pier Edward "Bubba" Lee, Jr., 40 of Markham passed away Wednesday, June 5, 2002 at the Matagorda General Hospital in Bay City. Bubba was born on September 25, 196l in Bay City to Pier Edward, Sr., and Dorothy Fay Moss Lee.

He was a self-employed truck driver and a carpenter in and around Bay City.

He is survived by: his daughter, Amy Marie Lee of Bay City; his mother: Dorothy Lee Wolfe of El Campo; sister and brother-n-law: Debbie and Craig Radley of El Campo; and nephews Cody, Cade, and Coy Radley. His also survived by Bambi Byrd and her daughter Courtney. He was preceded in death by his father, Pier E. Lee, Sr.; grandparents: C. E. and Nantie Lee; grandfather: J. H. Bohuslar; and step-father, Leon Wolfe.

Services were scheduled for 2 p.m. Saturday, June 8, at the Bay City Funeral Home Chapel with the Rev. William F Lanagan, Jr., officiating. Interment followed at Hawley Cemetery in Blessing.

Pallbearers were Craig and Cody Radley and Jim, Billy, Bobby, and Thomas Pier.

Services were under the direction of Bay City Funeral Home. A00014B2002JN09

The Bay City Tribune, Sunday, June 9, 2002

Pier Edward Lee, Sr

Funeral services for Pier Edward Lee Sr., 50, of Markham, will be held 2 p. m. Tuesday at First United Methodist Church, Bay City, with the Rev. Joe Ramsey of Markham officiating. Burial will be in Hawley Cemetery.

Mr. Lee was born Dec. 8, 1934, in Bay City, and died Feb. 16, 1985, in Matagorda General Hospital.

He is a descendant of an early Matagorda County family. He graduated from Bay City High School in 1953 and was a member of the Methodist church.

Survivors include his wife, Dorothy Lee of Markham; his mother, Mrs. C. E. Lee of Bay City; a son and daughter-in-law, Pier E. and Terry Lee Jr. of Markham; a daughter, Debbie Lee Griffith of San Antonio; and a sister, Laura Lanigan of Texas City.

Pallbearers include Wayne Frieda, Willie Bohuslar Jr., Garland Kaiser, Garry Hunter, Norris Pier, Kenneth McKissick, Stanley Genzer Sr. and Stanley Genzer Jr.

Honorary pallbearers include Willie Bohuslar Sr., Bill Lanigan, Wally Hart, Boyd Nave, Frankie Harrison, Dale Warren and Doug West.

He was preceded in death by his father, C. E. “Buzz” Lee in 1981.

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

The Daily Tribune, February, 1985
 

Virginia Lee, 90, of Bay City, passed away Friday, January 29, 2010 at the Matagorda House Nursing Center in Bay City.

She was born in Sulphur, Oklahoma on November 13, 1919 to parents, Edgar Franklin and Jenny Mae Mauldin Smith. Virginia graduated from Sam Houston State Teachers College and taught school in Bay City at Pierce School for over 20 years.

She married Clifford Jack Lee on September 25, 1940 and worked with him for many years on the family ranch. She was a devoted wife, mother, and friend to everyone who knew her.

She was preceded in death by: her parents; her husband Clifford; a son, Robert Franklin Lee; and her sisters, Bessie Smith and Nellie Jo Womack.

She is survived by: her son and his friend, Jack E. Lee and Patricia Armstrong of Chandler, Texas; daughters, Betty Jane Lee Clayton of Greenville, Georgia and Martha Nell Lee Cone of Bay City. She is also survived by a sister, Frankie Tanzy of El Paso, Texas and grand children, Gerald David Rodgers of Alpharetta, Georgia, Darrell Lee Rodgers of Austin, Texas, and Nell Lee Gibbens of Bay City, as well as great grand children, Caitlin Rodgers and Christopher Rodgers of Alpharetta, Georgia, Taylor Rodgers of Austin, David Gunner Gibbens, Alexis Grace Gibbens and Iralynn Grae Gibbens all of Bay City.

She also leaves behind a number of nieces and nephews.

Visitation will be from 4 until 7 p.m. at Bay City Funeral Home on Sunday.

Funeral services are scheduled for 1 p.m. Monday, February 1, 2010 at the Chapel of the First United Methodist Church in Bay City with the Rev. Chris Harrison and the Rev. Bill Lanigan, Jr. officiating.

Interment will follow at Cedarvale Cemetery.

Pallbearers will be Darrell Rodgers, David Rodgers, David Gibbens, Kim Abshier, Mac Crain, and Garland Kaiser. Honorary pallbearers will be Jon Abshier and Bill Lanigan.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorials be made to the American Cancer Society and to the Friends of the Library.

The family would also like to extend a special thanks to Wayland Bryant _Thomas and the staff of AMED HOSPICE, and to the staff of Matagorda House Nursing Center.

Services are under the direction of Bay City Funeral Home.

Bay City Tribune, Published February 3, 2010                                  Photo courtesy of Faye Cunningham

Clifford J. Lee

March 1, 1916 – July 24, 1987

Funeral services for Clifford J. Lee, 71, of Bay City will be held at 10:00 AM Tuesday at First United Methodist Church with the Rev. W. E. Dugger, Jr. officiating. Burial will be in Cedarvale Cemetery.

Mr. Lee was born March 1, 1916, in Ashby, Texas, to Patilla E. and Beulah Short Lee and died July 24, 1987, in Ruidoso, New Mexico.

He was a lifelong resident of Matagorda County, where he was a rancher and farmer.

Survivors include: his wife, Virginia Lee of Bay City; two sons, Jack E. Lee of Sabinal, Texas, and Robert F. Lee of Bay City; two daughters, Betty J. Sweat of Vero Beach, Florida and Martha N. Cone of Bay City; a sister, Lois Abshier of Bay City; and three grandchildren, David Rodgers, Darrell Rodgers and Nell Cone, all of Bay City.

Pallbearers include Melvin Blum, Prep Graham, Travis Harrison, Voss McCrosky, J. D. Voyles and L. A. Augsburger. Honorary pallbearers include Jack Powers, Frankie Harrison, Frank Lewis, Nini Landrum, Odie Sweeny, Earl Sirmon and George Shoultz.

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

The Daily Tribune, July, 1987
 

Michael J. Leibold

Services will be held for Michael J. Leibold, 31, of Markham, today (Friday).

Leibold died October 1, 1982 as a result of drowning in the Colorado River.

Survivors include wife, Betty Sue Leibold of Markham; parents, Mr. and Mrs. Jack Leibold of Pompano Beach, Florida; brothers, Donald of Markham and Rick of Boca Raton, Florida; sisters, Patricia Sue Stallings and Judy Leibold of Pompano Beach, Florida.

Leibold was a member of His Lighthouse Church in Markham.

Burial was held today (Friday) at Hawley Cemetery.

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

The Daily Tribune, October, 1982
 

Guadalupe Leija
(February 15, 1910 - October 7, 2005)

Guadalupe Leija, 95, of Bay City died October 7, 2005 at the Matagorda House. She was born February 15, 1910 in Chile, Mexico to the late Roque and Amelia Garza Navarro. Mrs. Lieja was a resident of Bay City the past 5 years and a former longtime resident of Palacios. She was a member of the Baptist Church. Survivors include: daughter: Frances Guerra of Bay City; 2 sons: Guadalupe “Lupe” Leijha of Albuquerque, NM & Ross Leija of Summerfield, FL; 10 grandchildren, 20 great grandchildren and 9 great great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband: Jose Leija; daughters: Janie Cerda & Marcella Leija; son Leo Leija; and grandson: Mark Cerda. Graveside Funeral Service will be 10:OO AM Tuesday, October 11, 2005 at the Palacios Cemetery. Arrangements with Palacios Funeral Home, Palacios, TX (361)972-2012.

Taylor Bros. Funeral Home
 

Velma Pauline LeJune
(September 12, 1921 - June 25, 2009)

Velma Pauline LeJune, 87, of Bay City passed away June 25, 2009. She was born September 12, 1921 in Yoakum, TX to the late Si & Idelle Burgess West. She was a life member of the VFW Post 2438 Ladies Auxiliary.

One son George Nichols and grandson Matthew Eklund preceded her in death. Survivors include daughter Barbara Holloway of Brazoria; sons Jack LeJune & Thomas Nichols both of Houston; 11 grandchildren and 12 great grandchildren.

A visitation will be held 5pm to 7pm Saturday at the funeral home. Graveside Services will be Sunday, June 28, 2009 at Roselawn Memorial Park with Rev. Lane Pardue officiating.

www.taylorbros.net

Mr. Jack Richard Le Master, Sr., age 64 of Van Vleck died Tuesday, Dec. 29, 2009 following a sudden illness.

He was a graduate of Van Vleck High School and formerly worked as an Insurance Agent for the Le Tulle Insurance Agency in Bay City.

Following Cremation, memorial services will be held at a later date.

Survivors include: his daughters, Leslie Olivett of Rosenberg, Texas and Jamie Haehnlenin of Aurora, Colorado; son, Jack R. Le Master, Jr. of Van Vleck, Texas; brothers, Gary Le Master of Van Vleck, Texas, Tim Le Master of Houston, Texas and seven grandchildren.

In lieu of usual remembrances the family requests memorials to The Salvation Army, P.O. Box 416, Bay City, TX 77404 OR your favorite charity.

Funeral services are under the direction of the Wharton Funeral Home in Wharton.

Bay City Tribune, Published January 4, 2010
 

LLOYD LEMON

BAY CITY - Funeral services for Lloyd Lemon of Bay City will be at 2 p.m. Saturday, June 13, 2009 at New Missionary Baptist Church in Bay City with Pastor T. L. Richardson, officiating. Burial will follow immediately after the service at Eastview Cemetery in Bay City.

Visitation will be from 4-8 p.m. Friday, June 12, 2009 in the chapel of Green's Mortuary.

Final arrangements entrusted to Green's Mortuary, 979-245-3489

Published in the Victoria Advocate on 6/11/2009
 

John Vance Lesikar
(January 20, 1945 - August 15, 2010)

John Vance Lesikar, 65, of Deer Park, TX passed away August 15, 2010. He was born Jan. 20, 1945 in San Francisco, CA to the late John W. & Corinne Moss Lesikar. He worked as a pipe welder for Brown & Root for many years.

His son Frank Gary Lesikar preceded him in death. Survivors include his wife Carolyn Sewell Lesikar of Deer Park; daughter Ginny Lesikar of Deer Park; sister Patricia Clark of Vista Villa, Arkansas; nieces and nephews Gina Allgaier, David Clark, Jason Sewell, Kody Sewell & Brandi Sewell.

The family will receive friends and relatives from 6pm to 8pm Wednesday at the funeral home. Funeral service will be 3:00 PM Thursday, August 19, 2010 at Taylor Bros. Funeral Chapel with Rev. Bob Hobbins officiating. Interment will follow at Roselawn Memorial Park. Pallbearers will be Kody Sewell, Jason Sewell, Brad Tompkins, Danny Moss, Jeff Mallard and Bill Lesikar.

www.taylorbros.net                                                           Photo courtesy of Faye Cunningham

W. Howard Lester
Aug. 14, 1935 - Nov. 15, 2010
 

W. Howard Lester, entrepreneur, retail pioneer and philanthropist died at age 75.
 

W. Howard Lester, American entrepreneur, devoted husband, beloved father, grandfather and cherished friend, died Nov. 15 at his home surrounded by his loved ones in Indian Wells, California, after a 13-year-long and courageous battle with cancer. He was a business icon, who for over 32 years guided the development and success of the Williams-Sonoma, Inc. portfolio of brands.
 

Howard lived the American dream during his life’s journey. Born Aug. 14, 1935, in Durant, Oklahoma, he was known to all as just “Howard.”
 

Despite being raised, as he often said, “on the wrong side of the tracks,” he was a true renaissance man with so many achievements. Even with all his success, he never forgot his humble beginnings.
 

In the 1950s, Howard served in the Counter Intelligence Corp. of the U.S. Army and was stationed in Munich, Germany. After military service, he attended the University of Oklahoma where he met his first wife Wanda Eshelman.
 

During the 1960s and early 1970s, Howard created several of his own companies, including Centurex Corporation, which became one of the leading suppliers of software systems to the American banking industry. After selling the company in 1976, he “retired.”
 

Never one to relax for long, in 1978, a friend introduced Howard to Chuck Williams, the founder of a small, authentic, French inspired kitchen store called Williams-Sonoma.
 

Howard immediately saw the potential in what Chuck had created and it was at that moment that the dream began, the vision of building a company that would “enhance people’s lives at home.”
 

It was at this moment also that a wonderful and enduring partnership began with Chuck that would last over 30 years.
 

Early in his career, Howard jotted down seven principles that eventually came to be known as “Howard’s Rules.”

These rules speak to his beliefs; the need for vision, the disdain for arrogance, modeling of honesty and integrity, reverence for the accomplishments of associates, and above all, a belief in the value of the customer, “because without them, nothing else matters.”

Originally intended as guiding principles for his own behavior, still today, these “rules” guide the entire Williams-Sonoma, Inc. organization and are integral to the rich culture that Howard helped to build. 

As chairman and CEO of Williams-Sonoma, Inc. from 1978 to his recent retirement in May 2010, Howard transformed business operations, taking Williams-Sonoma, Inc. public in 1983 while overseeing the development of more than 600 retail stores, seven direct mail catalogs and six online retail websites.

More than 50 years ago, Howard began a love affair with a game that would become one of the centerpieces of his life. Through golf, he forged many of his closest relationships. He attacked the game with the same passion and determination that he applied to his other endeavors.

Either playing in his beloved AT&T Pebble Beach National Pro-Am or enjoying his annual pilgrimage to the British Isles, his love for the game was unwavering.

Whether he was competing in tournaments or just playing with friends, his quest to better his game was endless. Howard may have simply been his happiest on the golf course.

Howard chose to share this passion for golf through many ways, including serving as a national trustee for the renowned First Tee Program, serving as the ceneral chairman of the American Express World Golf Championship in 2005, chairing the 2009 Presidents Cup event in San Francisco, and serving as a director for the Bob Hope Classic Golf Tournament. 

Howard strove to improve the lives of others through his philanthropy. With his wife Mary, they supported education, medical research, youth programs and the arts. In 1991, he founded The Lester Center for Entrepreneurship and Innovation within the Haas School of Business at the University at California, Berkeley, which now carries on his legacy of business enterprise.

In 2005, they endowed a new addition to the University of Oklahoma’s Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art. Over the years, he and Mary helped fund vital cancer research programs at MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston, UCSF Comprehensive Cancer Center and St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

Howard provided his resources, leadership and guidance to many organizations including: Boy Scouts of America, Conner Peripherals Inc., Delancey Street Foundation, Harold’s Stores, Inc., Il Fornaio (America) Corporation, International Association of Shopping Centers, San Francisco Museum of Modern Art, and The Good Guys, Inc. He also served on the Executive Council of the University of California, San Francisco, and the advisory boards of the Retail Management Institute of Santa Clara University and the Haas School of Business at the University of California, Berkeley.

In 2001, Howard was elected to Oklahoma’s Hall of Fame. In 2003, he was honored by the Haas School of Business as the Business Leader of the Year and also received an honorary degree from the University of Oklahoma the following year. In 2007, he received the Lifetime Humanitarian award for the Housewares Charity Foundation. Howard and Chuck together, in 2008, received the Direct Marketing Association’s highest honor by being inducted into their Hall of Fame.

Most recently, Howard was inducted into the Bay Area Council’s Business Hall of Fame in October 2010.

Mr. Lester is survived by: his wife, Mary Vaughan Lester; his children, Kirk and his wife Sheryl, Kathryn Lindlan and her husband Tim and Kristen Rio and her husband Steve; his five grandchildren, Claire, Charles and Charlotte Lester, Luke and Sarah Lindlan; and his niece, Elizabeth Lester Hartmann.

The family has asked that donations may be made to: MD Anderson Cancer Center, UCSF Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, Delancey Street Foundation and St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

Bay City Tribune, Monday, November 29, 2010
 

Mrs. Tommy Zell LeTulle, 80, of Charlotte, N.C., died Monday, March 27, 2000 at Carolinas Medical Center. She was born November 21, 1919 in Comanche, Texas to the late Noah and Oda LaGrone Norwood.

Mrs. LeTulle was a former longtime resident of Bay City, a member of the First United Methodist Church of Bay City, and a longtime realtor. She was Mayor of Bay City from 1989 to 1992 and also served on City Council and Bay City School Board. She also belonged to the Junior Service League, Book Review Club, and the Chatauqua Club.

Survivors include: two daughters, Linda and Dwight Edman of Charlotte, N.C. and Leslie and Richard Smith of Pittsburgh, PA; five grandchildren, Burton Stavinoha and his wife LuAnn, Richard LeeMaster, Jamie Haehnlein and her husband Chris and Leslie Olivett and her husband John; and seven great grandchildren.

Funeral services will be 2 p.m. Friday March 31, 2000, at the First Baptist Church with the Rev. George Butchee officiating. Interment will be at Cedarvale Cemetery.

Arrangements are with Taylor Bros. Funeral Home.

THE DAILY TRIBUNE, Thursday, 30 Mar 2000                  Burton Bond LeTulle            Photo courtesy of Gale French

Burton Bond LeTulle

August 28, 1922 – December 6, 1993

Funeral services for Burton B. LeTulle, 71, of Bay City, are scheduled for 3:00 PM today at First United Methodist Church in Bay City with the Revs. Leslie LeGrande and Buford Finley officiating. Burial will follow in Cedarvale Cemetery in Bay City.

Mr. LeTulle was born August 28, 1922, in Bay City to John James and Lela Bond LeTulle and died December 6, 1993, in St. Luke’s Hospital in Houston.

He was active in many organizations and businesses in the civic and political arenas. He was also a member of First United Methodist Church in Bay City.

Survivors include: his wife, Tommy LeTulle of Bay City; two daughters and sons-in-law, Linda and Dwight Edman of Charlotte, North Carolina and Leslie Jan and Richard Smith of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania; six sisters, Juanita Matthes, Hattie Ziegenhals, Virginia Peden and Jean Anderson, all of Bay City, Ida Mae Taylor of Rockport and Manon Matthews of Wharton; his mother-in-law, Oda Norwood of Sweeny; three sisters-in-law, Velma Landrum, Leah Landrum and Jeanette LeTulle McMeans, all of Bay City; and five grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.

Pallbearers are Burton J. Stavinoha, J. Eric Stavinoha, J. Richard LeMaster, Gordon Cook, George Deshotels, James M. Allen, James M. Frankson and Gary Green.

Honorary pallbearers Allen Green, Roy L. Anderson, Richard Bachman, Bob Wilkinson, Bobby Wilkinson, Tom Rowland, Members of the Bay City Lions Club and the Directors of the LCRA.

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

The Daily Tribune, December 9, 1993             Obituary courtesy of Susie Adkins
 

REGINAULD CURTIS LEVI

VICTORIA - Funeral services for Reginauld Curtis Levi, 38, of Victoria, who passed away April 3, 2008, will be held Saturday, April 12, 2008, at 11 a.m., at Enterprise Baptist Church, Bay City, with the Rev. Harvey Snell, eulogist. Burial will follow at Eastview Cemetery. Visitation will be Friday from 2-8 p.m. at the funeral home chapel.
Arrangements are with Duncan-Roberts Funeral Home, Bay City, 979-245-5197.

Published in the Victoria Advocate from 4/11/2008 - 4/12/2008.

Larry Edward Lewis, 59, of Bay City was graciously called home by God, after a battle with cancer on July 9, 2010.

He was born September 21, 1950 in Bay City, Texas to James Edward and Mary Helen Smith Lewis.

He was a 1970 graduate of Van Vleck High School and graduated from Sam Houston State University in 1975. He married his childhood sweetheart, Bennie Jo Weathers on August 21, 1971. He worked for 25 years at Amoco Production Company and currently worked for El Paso Corporation in Houston.

Larry was a great husband, father, grandfather and friend to many. He let his life shine for Christ and was a witness for his Lord everywhere he went. It has been said that he made his workplace his Mission Field.

Survivors include: his wife of almost 39 years, Bennie Jo Lewis of Bay City; mother, Helen Lewis of Bay City; daughter, Tammy Annette Smith and husband Trey of Longview; sons, Jason Edward Lewis of Bay City and Brian Keith Lewis and wife Robbi of Kilgore; sister, Gail Elizabeth Denn and husband Vernon of Bay City; brothers, Mark Alan Lewis of Florida and James Allen Lewis and wife Sherry of Brazoria; grandchildren, Paige, Noah, Jaidyn, Chase and Hailey Lewis and a number of nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles and cousins.

The family will receive friends and relatives from 6 until 8 p.m. Monday at the funeral home.

Funeral service will be 10 a.m. Tuesday, July 13, 2010 at the Cedar Lane Baptist Church with the Rev. David Roach officiating.

Interment will follow at Roselawn Memorial Park in Van Vleck.

Pallbearers will be Raymond Brooker, Ronnie Woolsey, Ray Horton, Paul Hill, Bill Bona and Willie Denbow.

Honorary pallbearers will be Jimmy Grisham, Glenn Robertson, Don Ross, Gary Powell and his co-workers from El Paso Corporation.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to the staff of Houston Hospice for their care and time.

Memorials may be made to the Cedar Lane Baptist Church; PO Box 90; Cedar Lane, TX 77415.

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

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

Bay City Tribune, Published July 14, 2010                              Photo courtesy of Faye Cunningham

LLOYD LEWIS

BAY CITY - Funeral services for Lloyd Lewis, 65, of Bay City, who passed away May 18, 2009 will be held at 11 a.m. Monday, May 25, at Mother Zion Baptist Church in Bay City with the Rev. Murray Martin, eulogist. Burial will follow at Eastview Cemetery.

Visitation will be from 3 until 8 p.m. Sunday at Duncan-Roberts Funeral Home.

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

Victoria Advocate, May 23, 2009      Photo courtesy of Faye Cunningham

Claudia Della Lezak
(October 4, 1909 - December 24, 2006)

Claudia Della Lezak, 97 of El Maton, passed away Sunday, December 24, 2006 in Houston, TX. She was born October 4, 1909 in Cyclone, TX to John Sivek and Rosalie Surovcak Sivek. She was a member of St. Peter’s Catholic Church in Blessing and was a member of the St. Peter’s Altar Society.

She is survived by her Daughters, Dolores Landsman of Montgomery, TX, Evelyn Landry of Kaplan, LA and Laverne Tagtmeyer of Emporia, KS; by her Sons, Edward Lezak of Clemville, TX, Marion Lezak of El Maton, TX, Jerry Lezak of Winnie, TX and Bob Lezak of Houston, TX; by a Sister, Anna Mae Kammerer of Sweeny, TX; and by 21 Grandchildren, 53 Great Grandchildren and 6 Great-Great Grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband, Jerry Pete Lezak in 1987 and by her parents, John & Rosalie Sivek.

The Rosary will be held at 7:00 PM Tuesday, December 26, 2006 at Taylor Bros. Funeral in Bay City, TX. The Funeral Mass will be held at 10:00 AM Wednesday, December 27, 2006 at the St. Peter’s Catholic Church in Blessing, TX with Rev. Samuel Appiasi officiating. Interment will follow at St. Peter’s Catholic Cemetery in Blessing. Pallbearers include: Mark Lezak, Paul Lezak, Andy Lezak, Lewis Landsman, Gabriel Landry, Matt Lezak and Bret Tagtmeyer.

Words of comfort may be shared with the family at www.taylorbros.net.

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

www.taylorbros.net
 

Frances Canary Lindamood
(October 30, 1921 - May 31, 2007)

Frances Canary Lindamood 85 went to be with her Lord on May 31, 2007. Patient, warm, loving, faithful, nurturing are words to describe Frances. She was born October 30, 1921 in Mid West, Wyoming. Frances received her nurses training at Cook County hospital in Chicago, Illinois. She married her sweetheart Ralph Lindamood, an Army pilot, on July 11, 1944 whom precedes her in death. She worked more than 30 years at Matagorda General Hospital and Sweeney Community Hospital as an emergency room nurse. She loved her community and continued to serve after retirement as a friend of the Bay City Library.

Frances is survived by her sons: Steve Lindamood, Michael Lindamood and wife Teresa and Todd Lindamood and domestic partner Rick Kerby; daughters Caryl Lindamood and husband Buddy and Nina Arnold and husband Ben; grandchildren Holly, Jenny, Michelle, Chandra, Jeremy, Ben, Dana, Amanda and Jeff; and four great granddaughters and one great grandson. She always enjoyed spending time with her grandchildren, great grandchildren and granddogs.

Services will be 2:30 PM Sunday, June 3, 2007 at Taylor Bros. Funeral Home with Rev. Chris Harrison Officiating. Memorials may be made to the Bay City Public Library. Online condolences may be sent by visiting www.taylorbros.net. Arrangements with Taylor Bros. Funeral Home in Bay City. (979) 245-4613.

www.taylorbros.net                              Photo courtesy of Faye Cunningham

Kelly Erin Lindamood - Roselawn Memorial Park - Courtesy of Faye Cunningham

 

Paul Howard Lindsey
(May 20, 1917 - May 28, 2007)

Paul Howard Lindsey, 90, of Sweeny passed away May 28, 2007. He was born May 20, 1917 in Lexington, Tennessee to Richard and Laura Pirtle Lindsey. He retired from Phillips Petroleum and was a member of the Sweeny Church of Christ.

He is survived by one daughter and son-in-law Rose Nell & Charlie Bennett of Ovilla, TX; son and daughter-in-law John & DeLula Lindsey of Senoia, GA; daughter-in-law Susan Lindsey of Ft. Worth, TX; 7 grandchildren Lauri Roberts, Melissa Lindsey, Jamie Lindsey, Holly Jo Bennett, Joey Bennett, Lance Lindsey and Kyle Lindsey and 3 great grandchildren Tyler Lindsey, Mallory Roberts and Landon Roberts. He was preceded in death by his wife Brooksie Nell Lindsey; son Jim Lindsey and 9 brothers and sisters.

Funeral service will be 1:00 PM Wednesday, May 30, 2007 at the Sweeny Church of Christ with Glenn Salyer and Jack Brooks officiating. Interment will follow at Sweeny Cemetery. Pallbearers will be Lance Lindsey, Kyle Lindsey, Edward Burt, Rodney Weems, David Carr and Joe Hazelwood. Visitation will begin at 11:00 AM Wednesday at the Sweeny Church of Christ. Memorials may be made to AMED Hospice, 2919 Palmer Hwy., Texas City, TX 77590. Online condolences may be sent by visiting www.taylorbros.net. Arrangements with Taylor Bros. Funeral Home in Bay City. 979-245-4613.

Taylor Bros. Funeral Home
 

BEVERLAY LINTON

Funeral services for Beverlay Kaye Morgan Linton, 64, of Axtell, Tx. were held Sept. 21, 2009 at Cole Funeral Home Chapel in McGregor, Tx. with Reverend Jon Gartman officiating. Interment was Sept. 22 at  Hawley Cemetery near Blessing, Tx.

Mrs. Linton was born on Jan. 26, 1945, in Temple, Tx. to the late Daniel Roy Morgan and Jimmie (Montgomery) Morgan. She passed way Sept. 18, 2009.

She lived near Moody during her early years. Her family later moved to El Paso and then Palacios where she graduated in 1963. It was at Palacios High School that she met the love of her life, Gerald W. Linton and they married on Dec. 21, 1963. She attended both Wharton County Junior College and Southwest Texas State University in San Marcos before leaving college to be a Navy wife in 1966. She and Gerald lived on Navy bases in the New London/Groton, CT and Norfolk/Hampton Roads, VA areas. After their return to Texas in 1970, Beverlay attended the University of Mary Hardin Baylor where she graduated in 1974 with her Bachelor’s degree in Education.

She began her teaching career in Moody ISD as a Title One teacher and later taught in the Axtell ISD for 22 years after moving there in 1977. Her special love in teaching was for history and reading and anyone who ever had her for a teacher has never forgotten her Greek and Roman feast/festival days as well as her Friday story times. Beverlay was active in the local PTA, and also served on the TSTA board for McLennan County. She promoted academic UIL events and was a supporter and coordinator of academic UIL for many years. She also tutored homebound and struggling students and taught summer school. She retired in 2000 due to declining health.

She is survived by her devoted husband of 45 years, Gerald W. Linton; daughters, Krystal Liske and husband Don of Killeen, and Kimberlay Pavlik and husband John of Frederick, MD; grandchildren Danyele Curtis and fiancé John Thompson, Jr. of Athens, Christopher Richards and wife Samantha of Phillipsburg, NJ, and Kevin Richards of Frederick, MD; great-granddaughter Caydance Kimbrough of Athens, Tx.; mother-in-law, Edith Linton of Axtell; brother-in-law Ronald Linton of Axtell; sister-in-law Sandra Dulnig and husband Robert of Garland; nephews Ronnie Linton, Robbie Dulnig and Nathan Dulnig; and niece Melissa Janda.

She was preceded in death by her grandparents; son Gerald (Chip) Linton; daughter Jimmie Linton; and grandson James Richards.

For those desiring the family has suggested Axtell FFA Memorial Scholarship Fund, 300 Ottawa Street, Axtell, Tx. 76624 or Providence Hospice, 4830 Lakewood Drive Suite 5, Waco, Tx. 76710 for memorial contributions.

The Palacios Beacon, Wednesday, September 23, 2009
 

Jimmie Edith Linton

Graveside services for Jimmie Edith Linton, day old daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Gerald Wayne Linton, were held Sunday, June 2, at 2 p. m. in  Hawley Cemetery with Bro. Dual Pritchard officiating.

The infant was born May 28, 1968 in the Dyess AFB Hospital in Abilene and died May 29.

She is survived by her parents of Norfolk, Va., her twin sister, Krystal Kaye, maternal grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. Dan Morgan of Abilene and paternal grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. Nathan Linton of Palacios.

The Palacios Beacon, June 6, 1968

Helen Margaret Little
(December 30, 1929 - January 3, 2006)

Helen Margaret Little, 76, of Bay City, passed away Tuesday, January 3, 2006. She was born December 30, 1929 in Wadsworth, TX to Samuel Carroll Ryman and Agnes Ellen Butter Ryman. She was a lifelong resident of Bay City, a member of the Catholic Church and was retired from the Bookkeeping department of Matagorda General Hospital.

She is survived by her Grandson: Kenneth Morrill of Georgia; by her cousin: Viola Brietzke of Bay City; a niece: Carolyn Pena of Bay City; and by numerous nieces, nephews and cousins. She was preceded in death by her husband, Clarence Arvin Little; by her daughter: Reneta Little Morrill; and by her parents: Samuel C. and Agnes Butter Ryman.

Funeral services will be held at 10:00 AM Friday, January 6, 2006 at Taylor Bros. Funeral Home with Rev. Gerry Cernoch officiating. Interment will be at Roselawn Memorial Park in Van Vleck.

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

www.taylorbros.net
 

Ralph Louie Littlejohn, Sr.
(September 20, 1923 - October 19, 2009)

Ralph Louie Littlejohn, Sr., 86, of Fayetteville, GA, passed away Monday, October 19, 2009 in Atlanta, GA. He was born September 20, 1923 in Irene, Hill County, TX to O.P. Littlejohn and Mittie Bell Bailey Littlejohn. On September 20, 1954, he married Mamie Ruth Kain in Houston, TX. He was a US Army veteran of World War II and a retired Manager from Exxon Oil Company.

He is survived by his wife of 55 years: Mamie Ruth Littlejohn of Georgia: 4 children: Mindy, Pam, Liz & companion Jeff, and Ralph Jr. & wife Joy; brothers: Oliver and J.P. Littlejohn; 6 grandchildren: David, Aaron, Landon, Katie, Rachel, and Eric; and 2 great grandchildren.

The family will receive visitors from 8 AM to 10:30 AM Saturday, October 24, 2009 at Taylor Bros. Funeral Home. Graveside funeral services will be held at 11:30 AM Saturday, October 24, 2009 at the Matagorda Cemetery with Rev. Mike Wood officiating.

www.taylorbros.net
 

Feliciana G. Llanes
(September 1, 1923 - May 23, 2006)

Feliciana G. Llanes, 82, of Palacios died May 23, 2006 at Memorial Hermann Southeast in Houston. She was born September 1, 1923 in Edna, Texas to Jacinto and Josefa Jaso Garza. She was a member of St. Anthony’s Catholic Church, the Catholic Daughters, and a lifelong resident of Palacios.

Survivors include two daughters Gloria L. Garcia of Alvin and Jodie L. Cedillo of New Braunfels; three sons George Llanes, Jr. of Bell Flower, CA, Gilbert Llanes of Pasadena and David Llanes of Alvin; two sisters Mary Guajardo of Texas City and Lillie Perez of El Campo; one brother Jacinto Garza of Freeport; nineteen grandchildren, thirty nine great grandchildren and one great great grandchild. She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, George Llanes; son, Domingo Llanes; and brother, Ray Garza.

A rosary will be recited at 7:00 PM Thursday, May 25, 2006 at the Palacios Funeral Home. Funeral Mass is 10:00 AM Friday, May 26, 2006 at St. Anthony’s Catholic Church with Rev. Charles Dowomoh officiating. Interment will follow at the Palacios Cemetery. Pallbearers will be George Llanes, Jr., George Llanes, Sammy Garcia, Jr., David Llanes, Jr., Carlos Cedillo, Rick Cedillo, and Adrian Llanes. Words of comfort may be shared with the family by visiting www.taylorbros.net. Arrangements are with Palacios Funeral Home. 361-972-2012.

www.taylorbros.net
 

Mrs. W. P. Lloyd

Mrs. W. P. Lloyd, age 44 years, 9 months and 15 days, passed away in the hospital at Newgulf yesterday morning at 3:30 a.m.

She is survived by her husband; four daughters, Mrs. Voss McCrosky, Aunnine, Robbie and Sarah Lloyd; three sons, Thestle, Aubrey and Garner; two sisters, Mrs. Laura Lanier and Florence Roach of Tennessee; one brother Elbert Roach of Tennessee.

Funeral services were held from the Walker-Matchett Funeral Home this afternoon at 2:30 with Rev. E. O. Thompson of Markham, officiating. Interment was in  Hawley Cemetery.

THE MATAGORDA COUNTY TRIBUNE, November 26, 1936, Matagorda County, Texas
 

Russell Craig Lloyd
(March 19, 1951 - January 8, 2008)

Russell Craig Lloyd, 56, of Matagorda passed on to happier days with our Lord Jesus Christ on January 8, 2008. He was born March 19, 1951 in Corpus Christi, Texas to the late Ruth Day and Ray Lloyd.

Russell precedes his loving wife Peggy of Matagorda; son Jason Lloyd; daughter Sharon Green and three grandchildren all of Austin; two stepsons Ryan Holley of Corpus Christi & Lance Holley of Wahiawa, HI; two step-grandchildren; sister Linda Stoll of Corpus Christi; brothers Terry Lloyd of Corpus Christi, Randy Lloyd of Jersey Village & Marshall Lloyd of San Antonio and a multitude of friends & loved ones on his new journey. “If I can help somebody as I pass along, if I can cheer somebody with a word or a song, if I can show somebody is traveling wrong, then my living shall not be in vain. If I can spread God’s message as I ought, then my living has not been in Vain.” We will miss you!

Friends and relatives may call at the funeral home for viewing from 1PM to 9PM Friday. A memorial service will be 1:00 PM Saturday, January 12, 2008 at the First Baptist Church in Matagorda with Rev. Richard Lewis officiating. Private interment will follow at a later date. Memorials may be made to the American Heart Association.

www.taylorbros.net
 

Clinton Arvid Loff
(April 2, 1949 - June 14, 2007)

Clinton Arvid Loff of Carancahua Community died Thursday, June 14, 2007. Son of Arvid L. and Louise Hurta Loff, Clint was born and raised in Carancahua, graduating from Palacios High School in 1967. He is survived by his spouse, Charlotte Loff of Carancahua; daughter Bridgette Loff and son-in-law Carlos Diaz of Palacios, Texas; son Nathan Loff of Carancahua; grandchildren David and Christen Sandoval of Palacios and Catherine Dodson; step-daughter Laurie Revel; his brother Aaron L. Loff of Houston, Texas; and three sisters: Cindy (Loff) Litten and Eddie Litten of New Market, Virginia; Chris (Loff) Kornegay and Larry Kornegay of Houston, Texas; Debi Loff and Gary Brady of Houston, Texas; nephews Kyle Kornegay, Steven Rizzo, J. Michael Gomez, Jeff Litten, and Joshua Ripple; nieces Joy (Gomez) Kulis, Natalie (Gomez) Jordan, Veronica Jill Gomez, Kayla Loff, Kendra Kornegay, and Koral Kornegay. Clint was preceded in death by his parents, his son Christopher Arvid Loff, and his first wife, Cathy (Holloway) Loff Revel. A rosary will be held at the Palacios Funeral Home Sunday evening at 7:00 pm. Funeral Service will be at St. Anthony's Catholic Church in Palacios on Monday, June 18th at 10:00 A.M. Online condolences may be sent by visiting www.taylorbros.net. Arrangements with Palacios Funeral Home 361-972-2012.

www.taylorbros.net
 

Adelbert Minich Logan

Funeral services for A. M. Logan, 76, were scheduled for 2 p. m. Sunday at Taylor Brothers Funeral Home chapel in Bay City with the Rev. W. S. “Doug” Blanton officiating. Burial to follow at Hawley Cemetery, Blessing.

Mr. Logan was born Aug. 26, 1913, in Blessing to James H. and Dana Bonner Logan, and died at 3:45 p. m. April 27, 1990, in Matagorda General Hospital.

He was a retired pipe fitter, a member of the First Presbyterian Church in Palacios, a lifelong resident of Blessing and a member of the American Legion Post 649.

Survivors include wife Olla Mae Schulte Logan of Blessing; son and daughter-in-law, Edwin Bonner and Yvonne Logan of Sugar Land; sister, Florence McKinney of San Antonio; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Pallbearers include B. B. Rhodes, Jerry Flint, John Domorod, Danny Galvan, Steve Rickaway, Pete Curtner, Ed Bell, G. K. Nelson and Herman Coffman.

Honorary pallbearers include L. M. “Tick” Pierce, Lee Hall Pierce, James Cowger, Victor Zemanek, Red Foster, Delvin Taska, honorary.

In lieu of usual contributions, donations may be made to the American Cancer Society.

Arrangements are with Taylor Brothers Funeral Home, Bay City.

The Daily Tribune, April, 1990
 

WYLIE E. LOGAN

PALACIOS - Wylie E. Logan, 78, of Palacios, passed away Saturday, April 4, 2009 in Victoria. He was born in Mt. Vernon.

Visitation will be from 1-2 p.m. Saturday, April 11, 2009 at Pilgrim Rose Baptist Church in Palacios.

The funeral service will be at 2 p.m. Saturday, April 11, 2009 at Pilgrim Rose Baptist Church in Palacios, with Pastor Leroy Monroe officiating.

Interment will follow at Palacios Cemetery.

Please deliver all flowers to the church one hour prior to the funeral service.

Tracy's M. J. Santellana Funeral Directors, Victoria, 361-582-0858.

Published in the Victoria Advocate on 4/8/2009
 

Dudley G. Long

Funeral services were held for Dudley G. Long, 77, 10 a. m. today (Monday) at Bay City Funeral Home Chapel.

Officiating at the services was the Rev. Sam Kitchings of Sixth Street Church of Christ.

Long died May 5, 1982 in an automobile accident in Dennison.

Survivors include brothers: John Long of Beaumont and Garland Long of Francitas; sister, Thelma Rose of San Angelo; several nieces and nephews.

Burial followed services at Hawley Cemetery.

Pallbearers were Melvin Rose, Harvey Daniels, Robert Lee Long, Leslie Long, James Long and R. L. Long.

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

The Daily Tribune, May, 1982
 

John Franklin Long, Sr.
Jan. 6, 1925 –Nov. 25, 2010

John Franklin Long, Sr., born January 6, 1925, longtime resident of Bay City, passed away Nov. 25, 2010.

John is survived by: his wife of 69 years, Hannah; and their four children; seven grandchildren; and eight great-grandchildren.

John was an avid fisherman, golfer for many years, and retired from the family business, Long Theaters, Inc. in 1963. 

He will be greatly missed! 

I just want you to know we love you Grandfather.

Bay City Tribune, Monday, November 29, 2010
 

Robbie Dee Long
(July 21, 1913 - March 9, 2007)

Robbie Dee Long, formerly of Bay City, Texas, passed away on March 9, 2007, at the age of 93 years. Mrs. Long had a life well lived. Born in Houston, Texas July 21, 1913 to the late Edward Alexander Martin and Willie Clark Porter, she and her late husband of 44 years, Eugene R. Long, moved to Bay City, Texas to build their lives and raise their family. Her life was filled with the love of her family, her many friends, her home, her garden, and her involvement in the community. Mrs. Long was an active member of the First Christian Church of Bay City and the order of the Eastern Stars. In recent years, after developing Alzheimer’s she returned to the Houston area to be with family. She will be greatly missed by all those who knew and loved her and the many who passed through her life over her many years. Mrs. Long is survived by her daughter, Bobbie Jean and son-in-law, J.L. “ Corky” Frank of Sugarland, TX, and family and friends including, Jim and wife Patti Frank of Lafayette, LA, Debbie Frank and Terri McCauley of Washington, D.C., Jessie Long, Clint Burchfield, Sue and Hairl Bundick, Robert Earl Long, and Kay and Jerry Campbell, all residing in Texas. Visitation will be held from 9:00 A.M. Wednesday to 2:00 P.M. Wednesday March 14, 2007 at Taylor Bros. Funeral Home. Funeral services will be at 2:00 P.M. Wednesday with Rev. Court Riddle officiating. Interment will follow at Roselawn Memorial Park in Van Vleck. Arrangements by Taylor Bros. Funeral Home 979-245-4613. The family wishes to thank the staff of Silverado Senior Living in Sugar Land, and especially the Silverado Hospice, for their kind, committed, and loving care of Mrs. Long. If wished, charitable contributions can be made to the Alzheimer’s Association to aid the research and study of Alzheimer’s disease. Contributions can be designated for “Alzheimer’s Research Grants.” Alzheimer’s Association, 225 N. Michigan Avenue, Fl. 17, Chicago, IL 60601-7633

www.taylorbros.net
 

Robert E. Long & Alice L. Long
 Hawley Cemetery
Photo courtesy of Kristin Pendleton

Robert Edward Long

Robert Edward Long, 40, passed away September 12, 2009 in Helotes, Texas. He was born in Nuremburg, Germany on March 27, 1969 to Robert Fernando Long and Rose Ann Kopac-Hahn Long. Mr. Long was a plumber and worked for a fire sprinkler system company.

He was preceded in death by his father; grandparents, Robert E. and Alice Jones Long and Louie Lee and Vera J. Kopac Hahn.

He is survived by his mother; sisters, Sherry Long of Hephzibah, GA and Lynnette Lander and husband Paul of Niceville, FL; nieces Emily, Halle and Dana Lander and Claire Marks; nephew, Justin Harrell; uncle, Marvin Hahn of Bay City, TX; aunts, Delores Arendall of Natalia, TX, Mary Goodman of Bay City, TX, and Hilda Pendleton of Edna, TX.

Pallbearers were cousin, Robert Lee Long and nephew, Justin G. Harrell

Burial was at  Hawley Cemetery near Blessing, TX.

[Information taken from death certificate.]
 

Funeral services for Shirley Casey Long, 49 of Bay City, Texas will be at 11 a.m. Saturday, July 10, 2010 at Jesus Freewill Holy Temple Church, 2420 Ave C, Bay City, Texas the pastor Bishop Michael W. Hurst and Dr. Charles Roberson, Sr. will be officiating.

Burial will be in Eastview Cemetery. Viewing will be from 4 until 8 p.m. Friday, July 9, 2010 in the chapel of Green’s Mortuary.

Shirley was a loyal classmate of the class of 1979 and will be missed by all of her classmates.

Green’s Mortuary, 2702 Ave C, Bay City, Texas is in charge of services. 979-245-3489.

Bay City Tribune, Published July 7, 2010
 

Terry Lee Long
(December 23, 1943 - October 3, 2009)

Terry Lee Long, 65, of Bay City passed away Oct. 3, 2009 in Houston. He was born December 23, 1943 in Tulsa, Oklahoma to George Long and Maralee Wilson Long. He served his country in the US Army and most recently worked as a school crossing guard at Tennie Holmes Elementary.

Survivors include his wife: Sharon Heidrich Long of Bay City; mother: Marilee Wilson of Portland, OR; 2 daughters: Theresa Davis of Nowatta, OK & Alisha McDonald of Bay City; 3 sons: Steven Long of Nebraska, Damien McDonald of Bay City & Eric Heidrich of Plano, TX; sister: Linda Marquart of Portland, OR and 13 grandchildren.

The family will honor his life with a memorial service at a later date.

www.taylorbros.net
 

ALFRED LONGORIA

Funeral services for Alfred Longoria, 41, of Houston and formerly of Palacios, Tx., were held March 27, 2010 at The Living Word Church, 1405 12th St. in Palacios.

Mr. Longoria was born Aug. 12, 1968 to the late Alicia F. and Charlie Longoria, Jr. He passed away March 22, 2010.

He is survived by his children Alfred, Erica and Jessica Longoria of Palacios; brother Charlie Longoria III of Rockport, Tx.; sisters Susan L. Madrigal of Spring, Tx., Cynthia Longoria and Debra Martinez, both of Houston, Tx.; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Pallbearers are Charlie Longoria VI, Anthony Longoria, Daniel Mohammad, Aaron Madrigal, Saul Chacon and Kenny Garcia.

The Palacios Beacon
 

David Longoria, Jr., 48 was born to David and Dolores Longoria, April 6, 1958.

He passed from this life to eternal glory April 5, 2007 in time to spend his 49th birthday with his Lord and Savior.

He is survived by: his son, David Longoria III (Rebecca); daughter, Sara Denise Longoria (Cristan); granddaughters, Tyler Reece, Kayla Brooke Longoria; brothers, Joe Frank Longoria, Hector Longoria, Alfred Longoria (Dianna); sisters, Rozann Longoria, Audrey Guardiola (Dionico) and a host of nieces and nephews; aunts, uncles, and dear friends that will miss him dearly.

His parents preceded him in death.

Services were held by Green’s Mortuary (Bay City) he was laid to rest in Midfield Cemetery.

Pallbearers were, Leon Reyes, Robert Galvan, Jesse Adkins, Emiliano Villanueva, Tony Martinez and Javier Palomares.

Bay City Tribune, Published April 11, 2007, Matagorda County, Texas
 

Emilio Longoria
(March 20, 1931 - May 4, 2006)

Emilio Longoria, 75, of Bay City died May 4, 2006. He was born March 20, 1931 in Harlingen, Texas to Rosalio and Rosa Rosales Longoria. He was a painter and a longtime resident of Bay City. He is survived by his wife, Felipa Gomez Longoria of Bay City; five daughters Alvina L. Longoria of Katy, Elva L. Gonzales of Houston, Mary Jane Longoria of Bay City, Graciela Longoria of Bay City and Rosa Irene Braune of Victoria; three sons Emilio Longoria, Jr. of Palacios, Jesse Longoria of Bay City and Richard Longoria of Austin; one sister Delfina Diaz of Harlingen; fifteen grandchildren and twelve great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents and one son, Arturo Longoria. A prayer service will be at 7:00 PM Friday, May 5, 2006 at Taylor Bros. Funeral Home. Funeral service will be 3:00 PM Saturday, May 6, 2006 at Taylor Bros. Funeral Home with Pastor Mark Longoria officiating. Interment will follow at Roselawn Memorial Park in Van Vleck. Pallbearers will be Ruben Longoria, Jr., Mark Anthony Longoria, Emilio Ray Longoria, Eric Longoria, Arthur Longoria, Richard Gonzales II, William Gonzales, and Eugene Rodriguez. David Ross Braune, Jr., Zachary Ryan Braune and Christopher Rey Braune will serve as honorary pallbearers. Online condolences may be sent by visiting www.taylorbros.net. Arrangements are with Taylor Bros. Funeral Home in Bay City. 979-245-4613.

www.taylorbros.net                                          Photo courtesy of Faye Cunningham

Richard R. Longoria, 88, of Bay City passed away June 4, 2011. He was born July 3, 1922 in Cuero, TX to the late Manuel Longoria & Catarina Rodriguez Longoria. He worked as an Electrical Mechanic for 40 years at Coastal Electric Motors. He served his country in the US Army during WWII and was a life member of Philip H. Parker VFW Post 2438 in Bay City.

His wife Matilde Longoria, son Richard Longoria, Jr. and sisters Angelita Longoria & Irene Longoria preceded him in death. Survivors include daughters Hortencia Zavala of Angleton, Virginia Garcia of Bay City & Rachel Ramirez & husband Roger of Bay City; sons Ruben Longoria & wife Alvina of Katy, Michael Longoria of Bay City, Abelardo Tamez, Jr. & wife Annelie of San Antonio & Joe Pineda of Bay City; sisters Anita Luna of Victoria, Petra Rocha of Bay City, Otilia Martinez of New Orleans, Lily Sanchez & husband Frank of Angleton & Herlinda Hernandez & husband Robert of Killeen; brothers Manuel Longoria of Angleton & Rudy Longoria & wife Olivia of Bay City and by numerous grandchildren, great grandchildren and great-great grandchildren.

A rosary will be recited at 7:00 PM Monday, June 6, 2011 at Taylor Bros. Funeral Home. Mass will be 10:00 AM Tuesday, June 7, 2011 at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church with Rev. Gerry Cernoch officiating. Interment will follow at Roselawn Memorial Park in Van Vleck. His Grandsons will serve as pallbearers.

Taylor Bros. Funeral Home                       Photo courtesy of Faye Cunningham

Annie B. Longuet

Annie B. Longuet, 90, of Rosharon died June 15 at the Angleton Nursing Home. She is survived by one son, Olan Ray Longuet of Rosharon. Funeral services will be held Saturday, June 17, at 10 a. m. at the Palms Funeral Home in Angleton. Interment will be at 12 noon Saturday at the Hawley Cemetery in Blessing. Local arrangements under the direction of Taylor Bros. Funeral Home.

The Daily Tribune, June, 1978

Olan Ray Longuet
(November 14, 1927 - December 6, 2007)

Olan Ray Longuet, 80, of Gary, TX, passed away Thursday, December 6, 2007 in Nacogdoches, TX. He was born November 14, 1927 in Bay City to Orphy Jeffery Longuet and Annie Bertha Smith Longuet. He was a long time resident of Matagorda County and has resided in Gary, TX for the past 27 years.

He is survived by his cousins: Ola M. Voris of Blessing, Mary Ertell of Freeport, Barbara Adams of Pasadena, Lee Eva Frazier of Houston and Louise Smithey of Austin. He was preceded in death by his parents: Orphy Jeffery and Annie Bertha Smith Longuet.

Graveside funeral services will be held at 2:00 PM Monday, December 10, 2007 at the  Hawley Cemetery in Blessing with Forrest Ray Harter officiating.

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

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

Taylor Bros. Funeral Home                                                    Photo courtesy of Heather Serrill Janise

Annie Janise Loose

Funeral services for Annie Loose, 75, of Bay City are scheduled for 3 p.m. Monday at Taylor Brothers Funeral Chapel with the Rev. Charles Sonnier officiating. Burial to follow at Roselawn Memorial Park, Van Vleck.

Mrs. Loose was born Oct. 25, 1912, in Rosebud, Texas, to Gilbert and Alida Dronnett Janise and died April 1, 1988 in Matagorda General Hospital.

A resident of Bay City for eight years, she previously lived in Markham and was a member of Holy Cross Catholic Church.

Survivors include her husband, Marcell Loose of Bay City; daughter Letha Mae Bailey of Bay City; sons, Lloyd Henry Loose of Markham, Walter Leo Loose of Angleton; sisters, Mrs. Euclid Clement of Egan, La., Hazel Strap of Houston, Eva Bonin of Lake Arthur, La., and Loraine Watkins of Orange, Texas; seven grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren.

Arrangements are with Taylor Brothers Funeral Home, Bay City.

The Daily Tribune, Bay City, Texas, Sunday, April 13, 1988

Marcell Loose

Funeral services for Marcell Loose, 89, of Bay City were scheduled for 10 am today at the Taylor Brothers Funeral Home Chapel with Monsignor James Brunner officiating. Burial will follow at Roselawn Memorial Park, Van Vleck. A rosary was said 7 pm Wednesday at the Taylor Brothers Funeral Home Chapel.

Mr. Loose was born Aug. 6, 1901 to Martin and Fidelia Goodman Loose in Matagorda County and died April 2, 1991 at Bay Villa Nursing Home in Bay City.  A lifelong resident of Matagorda County, he was a member of the Catholic church.

He is survived by his daughter, Letha Bailey of Bay City; two sons, Henry Loose of Markham and Walter Loose of Angleton; six sisters, Lillian Le Monds of Bay City, Irene Shelby of Bay City, Agnes Janise of Bay City, Annie Zubereck of Liverpool, Texas, Kathryn Harvey of Liverpool and Vernice Alexander of Palacios; seven grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren.  Arrangement are with Taylor Brothers Funeral Home, Bay City. 

The Daily Tribune, April, 1991           Courtesy of Faye Cunningham
 

Walter Leo Loose, Sr. departed this world on December 6, 2010. He was born January 22, 1941 in Bay City, TX to the late Marcell and Annie Janise Loose. Walter attended grade school in Markham and graduated from Tidehaven High School in 1959.

Walter married Carole Lee Hunt of Bay City and of this marriage came two sons Walter L. Loose, Jr. of Palacios and Donald E. Loose, deceased. Walter, Jr. and his wife Stacy brought him two grandchildren Kyle Loose of Pearland and Victoria Bomar & husband Nick of Bay City. He also has one sister Letha Mae Bailey of Bay City and one brother Lloyd Henry Loose, deceased.

Walter loved to hunt, fish and travel. He made do with what he had and was proud of having a very good life. He had been living in the country near Angleton since 1981.

Walter wanted to let the folks at IPH Hospice Care know what a great job they did assisting him in his time of need. “If you have ever been a part of my life or just a friend, consider yourself an honorary pallbearer.”

The family will receive friends and relatives from 5pm to 7pm Wednesday at the funeral home. Funeral service will be 10:00 AM Thursday, December 9, 2010 at Taylor Bros. Funeral Home with Rev. Rodney Coates officiating. Interment will be at Roselawn Memorial Park in Van Vleck.

www.taylorbros.net

Jo Ann M. Loose

Funeral Services for Jo Ann M. Loose, 46, of Angleton will be held 2 pm Saturday at Brazosport Baptist Temple with the Rev. Clifton Jones officiating. Burial will be in Roselawn Memorial Park, Van Vleck.

Mrs. Loose was born May 30, 1943, in Edna, Texas to Ralph and Nettie Byrd Mayhew and died Oct. 11, 1989, at Diagnostic Hospital, Houston.  A resident of Angleton for 18 years, she was a member of the Baptist church. 

Survivors include her husband, Walter Loose of Angleton; parents, Ralph and Nettie Mayhew of Bay City; a son, Brett Bevers of Angleton, a sister, Lauren Smith of College Station; and a brother, Richie Mayhew of Bay City.

Pallbearers include Gayle Holton, Steve Holton, Harold Holton, Craig Kucera, Eric Kucera, and Donnie Loose. Arrangements are with Taylor Brothers Funeral Home, Bay City. 

The Daily Tribune, October 12 or 13?, 1989             Courtesy of Faye Cunningham
 

Esmeralda Zepeda Lopez
(May 6, 1973 - June 24, 2006)

Esmeralda Zepeda Lopez, 33, of Orange, Texas passed away Saturday June 24, 2006. She was born May 6, 1973 in Houston, Texas to Juan and Gloria Zepeda Lopez. She was a life long member of Rose of Sharon Church of Van Vleck.

She is survived by her mother: Gloria Lopez of Bay City; daughter: LaSette Garcia; sons: Darren Wayne Garza and Miguel Garcia all of Orange, Texas. Sisters: Chella Lopez of Orange, Teresa Gonzales of Bay City, Bethany Lopez of Orange, Samantha Lopez of Bay City, and Johnnie Marie Huerta of Bay City. Brother: Johnny Lee Lopez of Orange; Brother in law: Andrew Gonzales and sister in law: Ashley Lopez. Her father Juan Lopez preceded her in death.

A Prayer service will be held at 7:00 P.M. Tuesday, June 27, 2006 at Taylor Bros. Funeral Chapel. Funeral services will be held at 10:00 A.M. Wednesday June 28, 2006 at The Rose of Sharon Church of Van Vleck, with Sister Janie Robles officiating. Interment will follow at Roselawn Memorial Park in Van Vleck. Pallbearers include: Darren Garza, Johnny Lee Lopez, Peter Trevino, Felipe Lopez, III, Christopher Morales, Roel Garcia, and Phillip Robles, Jr. Honorary pallbearers include; Andrew Gonzales, Juan Miguel Garcia, Raul Garcia, III, Baby Christopher Alvarado, Jackson Solis, Dylan Lopez, Gaiven Lopez and Gaige Gonzales.

Arrangements with Taylor Bros. Funeral Home (979) 245-4613. “ Until we meet again find peace in heavens hands.”

www.taylorbros.net
 

ESTELA CANTU LOPEZ

PORT LAVACA - Estela Cantu Lopez, 79, of Port Lavaca, died Friday, Aug. 29, 2008. She was born Nov. 22, 1928, in Victoria, to the late Rafael Lopez Sr. and Abelina Cantu Lopez. She was a homemaker and a member of Our Lady of the Gulf Catholic Church.

She is survived by her daughters, Yolanda Ybarra of Waller, and Maria F. Arredondo and Diana Tagle, both of Port Lavaca; sons, Albert L. Martinez and Dave L. Martinez, both of Port Lavaca; sisters, Elida Herrera of Port Lavaca, Susie Lopez of Brenham, Dora Ortiz of Bay City, and Hester Herrick of Houston; brothers, Paul Lopez Sr. of Port Lavaca and Ralph Lopez Jr. of Rockport; 17 grandchildren; 22 great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, David G. Martinez; sisters, Antonia Franco and Janie Lopez; and brother, Abelardo "Larry" Lopez.

Visitation will begin after 1 p.m. with a rosary to be recited at 7 p.m. today at Artero Memorial Chapels in Port Lavaca. Funeral Mass will be at 11 a.m. on Monday, Sept. 1, 2008, at Our Lady of the Gulf Catholic Church, with burial at Catholic Cemetery No. 3 in Victoria.

Pallbearers are Porfirio Ybarra Jr., Dave Martinez Jr., Mitch Lee Arredondo, Jeffery David Arredondo, Anthony Winters, and Albert Brian Martinez Jr.

Honorary pallbearers are Johnny Lopez and Mark Sowa.

Artero Memorial Chapels, Port Lavaca, 361-552-2300.

Published in the Victoria Advocate on 8/31/2008
 

Felipe Lopez, Jr.
(March 26, 1952 - April 25, 2006)

Felipe Lopez, Jr., 54, of Van Vleck passed away April 25, 2006 at UTMB in Galveston. He was born March 26, 1952 in Bay City to Felipe Lopez, Sr. and Tomasa Zamora Lopez. He was a life long resident of Matagorda County and a member of Rose of Sharon Pentecostal Church.

He is survived by four daughters and two sons-in-law, Cynthia & Keith Blackwell of Van Vleck, Michelle Lopez , Pricilla & Jay Hailstone and Jennifer Lopez all of Seabrook, TX; one son Felipe Lopez III of Seabrook, TX; seven sisters, Ellen Huerta, Janie Robles, Angelina Quiroga & Jose Garcia all of Van Vleck, Lupe Deleon, Mary Aguilar, & Felipa Aguilar all of Bay City; one brother Ray Lopez of Pearland and seven grandchildren Chasity and Kasandra Blackwell, Keith Blackwell, Jr., Norman Medillin, J. C. Medillin, Jr., Leah Lopez and Elias Lopez.

A prayer service will be recited 7:00 PM Wednesday, April 26, 2006 at Taylor Bros. Funeral Home. Funeral service 2:00 PM Thursday, April 27, 2006 at Rose of Sharon Pentecostal Church with Rev. Janie Robles & Rev. Janie Jo Lopez officiating. Interment will follow at Roselawn Memorial Park in Van Vleck. Online condolences may be sent by visiting www.taylorbros.net. Arrangements with Taylor Bros. Funeral Home in Bay City. 979-245-4613

www.taylorbros.net
 

Final Services Held for Mrs. Juanita R. Lopez

Requiem mass was said for Mrs. Juanita R. Lopez, 74, of Bay City, on Monday July 31, at 11:00 AM, in Our Lady of Guadalupe Church with Rev. F. Dugeas officiating. Interment was in Cedarvale Cemetery.

She is survived by four daughters Mrs. Josephine Guzman of Bay City, Mrs. Beatrice Lopez, Mrs. Fannie Ramos, and Mrs. Janie Harvey; two sons, Esabel and Frank Lopez, all of Palacios.

The Daily Tribune, August 3, 1961                                Courtesy of Susie Adkins

Martin M. Lopez, Sr.
(May 27, 1929 - February 12, 2009)

 

Martin M. Lopez, Sr., 79, of Bay City passed away Feb. 12, 2009. He was born May 27, 1929 in Karnes City, TX to the late Samuel and Agustina Montez Lopez. He was a member of Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church and a former Foreman for Pas-Key Construction.
 

A son, Martin Lopez, preceded him in death. Survivors include his wife Tomasa Martinez Lopez of Bay City; daughters Janey Riley of Bay City, Deliz Garcia of San Antonio & Jessica Sarabia of Bay City; sons Arnulfo Lopez of Houston, Martin M. Lopez, Jr. of Rosenberg and Oscar Lopez of Corpus Christi; sisters Lorenza Martinez and Maria Nanez both of Taft, TX; fifteen grandchildren and four great grandchildren.

A rosary will be recited at 7:00 PM Sunday, Feb. 15, 2009 at Taylor Bros. Funeral Home. Mass will be 10:00 AM Monday, Feb. 16, 2009 at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church with Rev. Gerry Cernoch officiating. Interment will follow at Roselawn Memorial Park. Pallbearers will be Arnulfo Lopez, Martin Lopez, Jr., Bobby Hawkins, Jr., Rudy Reyes, Anthony Sarabia and Marcel Martinez.

Bay City Tribune, February 15, 2009                  Photo courtesy of Faye Cunningham

Fulton Lothridge
(May 26, 1912 - December 11, 2006)

Fulton Lothridge, 94, former longtime resident of Palacios died December 11, 2006. He was born May 26, 1912 in Baxley, Georgia to Joseph Elijah and Agnes Pybus Lothridge. He worked for Alcoa for 26 years, was a member of the Palacios Masonic Lodge for 50 yrs and owned Lothridge Garage in Palacios.

Survivors include daughters Virginia Valenta of Bay City and Judy Hanzik & husband Ronald of Aiken, SC; son Joe Lothridge & wife Debbie of Columbus; seven grandchildren Denise Valenta, Valerie Henson, Vanessa McFadin, Brad Mann, Lauren Mann, Matt Torregrossa and Rick Bateman and two great granddaughters Christina & Alyssa Henson.

Funeral service will be 10:00 AM Thursday, December 14, 2006 at the Palacios Funeral Home Chapel, 701 1st St., Palacios, TX with Rev. Sammy Carr officiating. Interment will follow at the Palacios Cemetery. Pallbearers include Brad Mann, Matt Torregrossa, Tommy Beard, Ted Bates, Buddy Stavinoha, and Arthur Kollmann. Charles Fox and Billy Morton will serve as honorary pallbearers. The family will receive friends from 6pm – 8pm Wednesday at Taylor Bros. Funeral Home, 2313 Ave I, Bay City, TX. Online condolences may be sent by visiting www.taylorbros.net. Arrangements with Taylor Bros. Funeral Home in Bay City. 979-245-4613.

www.taylorbros.net
 

JONITA JOY LOUDERBACK

  EDNA - Jonita Joy Stewart Louderback, 80, of Edna, passed away Sunday, Sept. 28, 2008 in Victoria. She was born Feb. 1, 1928, in Houston, to the late William and Ermine Partain Stewart. She was a retired teacher with Palacios Independent School District and received her education from Texas Women's University in Denton. She was a member of Edna Presbyterian Church.

She is survived by her daughters, Linda Gates of Edna and Cindy Brookhouser of Van Vleck; son, "Andy" Louderback of Edna; and grandchildren, Jennifer Weeren, Julianne Hammock, Jonathan Gates, Katie Brookhouser, Clint Johnson, Kara Louderback, and Kelsie Louderback.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, John Jerome Louderback; and brother, William Stewart.

The funeral service will be at 2 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 1, 2008 at Edna Presbyterian Church of Edna, with the Rev. Terry Bozarth officiating. Burial will follow at Memory Gardens of Edna.

Pallbearers will be Billy Ray Blackman, Bill Hansen, Keith Wallis, Monty Mozley, Emil Gonzales, and James Gasch.

Slavik Funeral Home, Edna, 361-782-2152.

Published in the Victoria Advocate on 9/30/2008
 

Franklin Dennis Loveless, 55, passed away at his home in Matagorda on February 16, 2010.

He was born in Chesapeake City, Maryland on October 26, 1954 to Gilbert Caldwell Loveless and Martha Francis Loveless.

Franklin is preceded in death by: his father, Gilbert Caldwell Loveless; mother, Martha Francis Loveless; brothers, Gary Dennis Nowland and George Albert Loveless.

He is survived by: four brothers, Gilbert Loveless, Wilbert Loveless, Delbert Loveless, John Loveless; sister-in-law, Maureen (Scottie) Nowland; many nieces, nephews, great nieces and nephews.

In lieu of flowers, please send a small donation to The National Foundation for Cancer research at 4600 East West Highway Suite, Bethesda, Maryland 20814.

Bay City Tribune, Published February 22, 2010
 

Virgie Mae Loveless, 84, of Little Rock, loving mother and devoted wife, went to join our Lord on May 5, 2009.

She was born on September 30, 1924, in Markham, Texas to Albert Hoyt and Jesse Longuet Johnson.

She was preceded in death by: her husband, Walter Lewis Loveless, Sr.

She was the youngest of five siblings. She is predeceased by brothers Chester and Hoyt Johnson and sister Lorena Dawdy.

Her sister is Helga Harper who lives in Bay City, Texas. She is also survived by her son Wally (Ann) Loveless, her daughter Harriet (Dan) Larson, all of Little Rock and her daughter Patty (Johnnie) Watts of Anderson, S.C. Her grandchildren include John Watts, Jennifer Watts Friday, Kyle Loveless Noble, Elizabeth Loveless Tilbury, Edward Walter Loveless, Blake Larson, Hallie Larson, Barrett Larson, and 8 great-grandchildren.

Virgie was raised in Markham, Texas and graduated from Markham High School at the age of 16 after skipping a grade. She moved to Galveston, Texas, to work for Southwestern Bell Telephone Company where she met and married Walter Loveless in January 1943. After the family located in LR, she worked as office manager for Dr. David Cheairs and Dr. Carl Wenger from 1953 to 1982.

Her interests included dancing and gardening. She belonged to the Square Rounders and The Dance Club, and The Briarwood Garden Club. Virgie and Walter enjoyed travel together and shared trips in their motor home throughout the US. They also traveled in Europe and Hawaii after their retirement.

She was a member of Fellowship Bible Church where she enjoyed serving in the tape ministry.

The funeral service was held at 3 p.m. Thursday, May 7, 2009 at Fellowship Bible Church in the chapel with interment at Pinecrest Memorial Park.

Visitation was at Roller-Chenal Funeral Home (501)224-8300 from 6 until 8 p.m. Wednesday, May 6, 2009.

The family wishes memorials to be made to Ozark Conference Center, 4 Ozark Mountain Road, Solgohachia, Arkansas 72156. Telephone (501)354-3959.

Online guestbook: www.rollerfuneralhomes.com/chenal

Bay City Tribune, Published May 13, 2009
 

Ruth Lovett
(September 14, 1931 - January 13, 2006)

Ruth Lovett, 74, of Bay City, passed away Friday, January 13, 2006. She was born September 14, 1931 in Bay City to Verner Clive Glenn and Elizabeth Shower Glenn. She was a retired Teacher and Reading Specialist and a member of the First United Methodist Church of Bay City.

She is survived by her husband, James E. Lovett of Bay City, TX and by her sister, Helen Foreman of Anchorage, AK. She was preceded in death by her parents, Verner C. and Elizabeth Shower Glenn and by her brother, Jack Glenn.

Memorial services will be held at 2:00 PM Wednesday, January 18, 2006 at the First United Methodist Church of Bay City with Rev. Pauline Harvey officiating.

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

www.taylorbros.net
 

Jonita Joy Stewart Louderback, 80, of Edna, Texas died on September 28, 2008 in Victoria, Texas.

She was born February 1, 1928 in Houston, Texas. She was a retired teacher who worked for Palacios Independent School District. She received her education from Texas Women’s University, at Denton, Texas. She was a member of Edna Presbyterian Church.

She is survived by: daughters, Linda Gates of Edna and Cindy Brookhouser of Van Vleck; son, “Andy” Louderback of Edna; grandchildren, Jennifer Weeren, Julianne Hammock, Jonathan Gates, Katie Brookhauser, Clint Johnson, Kara Louderback and Kelsie Louderback.

She is preceded in death by: husband, John Jerome Louderback; brother, William Stewart and parents, William and Ermine Partain Stewart.

Services will be at 2 p.m. Wednesday, October 1, 2008 at Edna Presbyterian Church of Edna with the Rev. Terry Bozarth officiating. Burial will follow at Memory Gardens of Edna.

Pallbearers are to be Billy Blackmon, Bill Hansen, Keith Wallis, Monty Mozley, Emil Gonzalez, and James Gosch.

Slavik Funeral Home, 209 North Allen, Edna, Texas 77957; 361-782-2152 is in charge of the arrangements.

Bay City Tribune, Published October 1, 2008
 

Mr. Homer Lee Lowe, age 82 of Porter, Texas and a former resident of Wharton died Monday, April 12, 2010 in Conroe, Texas following an extended illness.

He was born on April 8, 1928 in Bay City, Texas the son of the late William Butler Lowe and Julia Anna Ertell Lowe.

Mr. Lowe had been a resident of Porter, Texas since 1972 and formerly lived in Wharton. He married Betty Jeane Joines on August 26, 1948 in Sealy, Texas. He worked as a water well driller and started Lowe Waterwells, Inc. in 1968.

He was preceded in death by a son, David Lowe in 1989 and a brother, Tom Frank Lowe.

He was a member of the Texas and National Groundwater Association and was dedicated to his profession and his customers.

Funeral services were held at 11 a.m. Friday, April 16, 2010 at the chapel of the Wharton Funeral Home with Mr. Charles Collett officiating. Burial followed in the Evergreen Memorial Park Cemetery in Wharton.

Survivors include: his wife, Jeanie Lowe of Porter, Texas; sons and daughter-in-law, Johnny and Linda Lowe of Bay City, Texas and Terry Lowe of Spring, Texas.; grandchildren, Jason, Dusty and Stephanie Lowe, Misty Lowe and Terry Lowe, Jr.; great grandson, Gibson Lowe.

Pallbearers were: Jason Lowe, Dusty Lowe, Terry Lowe, Jr., Joe Ray Joines, Jon Joines and Gary Joines.

Honorary Pallbearers were: Thomas Gene Joines, Bill Joines, Jr., Michael Joines and Joe Wayne Mask.

In lieu of usual remembrances the family requests memorials to the Houston Area Parkinson Society, 2700 Southwest Fwy., Suite 296, Houston, TX 77098 OR The Alzeheimer's Association, 2246 W. Holcombe Blvd., Houston, TX 77030.

Funeral services were under the direction of the Wharton Funeral Home in Wharton.

Bay City Tribune, Published April 18, 2010
 

Clifton Neal Lowery
(December 9, 1950 - June 17, 2009)

Clifton Neal Lowery, 58, of Van Vleck, passed away Wednesday, June 17, 2009. He was born December 9, 1950 in El Campo to Doris Sue Middleton Lowery and Joe Verne Lowery. He was a lifelong resident of Matagorda County and a member of Calvary Baptist Church of Bay City. He was a retired Operator from Phillips-Conoco in Old Ocean and a Vietnam veteran of the U S Army.

He is survived by his wife: Grace Heidrich Lowery of Van Vleck; his mother: Doris Sue Lowery of Bay City; a daughter: Brandy Lowery Holloway & husband Rhett of Blessing; and his brother: Clifford Lowery of Van Vleck. He was preceded in death by his father: Joe Verne Lowery.

Funeral services will be held at 2:00 PM Friday, June 19, 2009 at Taylor Bros. Funeral Home with Rev. Jared Stillions officiating. Interment will follow at Roselawn Memorial Park in Van Vleck.

www.taylorbros.net
 

W. W. Lowrey, Jr.
(April 21, 1915 - October 23, 2005)

W. W. “Bill” Lowrey, Jr., 90, of Bay City, passed away Sunday, October 23, 2005, He was born April 21, 1915 in Wharton, TX to Wallace Walker Lowrey, Sr. and Annie Myra Davidson Lowrey. He was a former Mill Manager and Chief Pilot for Adolphus Rice in Houston. From 1943 to 1945, during World War II, he served as Advanced Group Commander of the 319th AAFWFTD training the W.A.S.P. (Women’s Airforce Service Pilots) in Sweetwater. He was a resident of Bay City since 1988, a member of the First United Methodist Church, a member of Masonic Lodge # 1317 of Lake Jackson, and retired as Chief Pilot for the Dow Chemical Company.

He is survived by his wife: Ruth M. Lowrey of Bay City; by his sons: Wallace Walker Lowrey III & wife Paula of Cypress, James Michael Lowrey & wife Leslie of Lake Jackson and Arthur Harris Lowrey of Lake Jackson; and by eight grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren. He is also survived by caregivers: Iris Diaz, Laura Diaz, Maria Luisa Galvan, Monica Serrano, Andriana Mendoza and Gabriella Rodriquez; and by his special cat: Rhett. He was preceded in death by his first wife, Marguerite Harris Lowrey and by his parents Ann & Wallace W. Lowrey, Sr.

The family will receive friends at Taylor Bros. Funeral Home from 6 PM to 8 PM Tuesday. Funeral services will be held at 10:00 AM Wednesday, October 26, 2005 at the First United Methodist Church of Bay City with Rev. Pauline Harvey officiating. Graveside services will be held at 3:30 PM Wednesday, October 26, 2005 at the Forest Park Lawndale Cemetery in Houston, TX. Honorary pallbearers will be Wallace W. Lowrey IV, Steve Moniot, James Russell Lowrey, Mark Koenning, Clint Wehrly, and David Lowrey.

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

www.taylorbros.net
 

Joe V. Lowery, 79, of Bay City passed away April 8, 2009.

He was born August 1, 1929 in Gatesville, Texas to the late John Howard and Lessie McHargue Lowery. He loved gardening, fishing and cooking for his family.

Survivors include: his wife, Sue Lowery of Bay City; sons, Clifford Lowery and Clifton Lowery and wife Grace all of Van Vleck; sisters, Juanita Luna of Austin, Winnie Middleton of Kingwood and Annette Bruton of Gatesville; brother, Bobby Lowery of Gatesville and granddaughter Brandy Lowery and husband Rhett Holloway.

The Family will receive friends and relatives from 5 until 7 p.m. Friday at the funeral home. Funeral service will be at 10 a.m. Saturday, April 11, 2009 at Calvary Baptist Church with the Rev. Clint Lowery officiating.

Interment will follow at Roselawn Memorial Park.

Pallbearers will be Paul Lowery, Mike Lowery, Bruce Grasmunk, Larry Middleton, Chip Lowery and Thomas Matura.

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

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

Bay City Tribune, Published April 12, 2009                     Photo courtesy of Faye Cunningham
 

Ercel M. Lowry Dies Thursday in Galveston

Mrs. Ercel May Lowry age 52 years passed away at Galveston, Texas 9:45 a.m., Thursday.

Mrs. Lowry is survived by her husband Mr. H. S. Lowry, one daughter, Mrs. Hazel Mae Merck of Collegeport, Texas, two sons, Mrs. Edgar Lowry of Genoa, Texas and Mr. Herbert S. Lowry of Livingston, Texas and one sister, Mrs. Nell Killin of Birmingham, Ala.

Funeral services were held today, Friday at 3:30 p.m., from Taylor Bros. Funeral Home with Rev. George Gillespie of Palacios officiating.

Active pallbearers were Dean Merck, Jack Dawdy, Virgil McGinnis, R. L. Brown, Jack Holsworth and Fred Law. Burial was in  Hawley Cemetery.

Taylor Bros. Funeral Home were in charge of the arrangements.

THE DAILY TRIBUNE, Friday, November 29, 1946

LOWRY--Mrs. Ursel Lowry, 51, a resident of Collegeport, died yesterday morning at 9:45 o'clock at John Sealy Hospital. She was born in Lebanon, Tenn., Dec. 25, 1894. Her body was forwarded yesterday afternoon to Bay City by J. Levy & Bro. funeral home for services and interment there.

Galveston Daily News, November 29, 1946

Margaret Gonzales Lozano
(February 22, 1926 - October 2, 2008)

Margaret Gonzales Lozano, 82, of Bay City, passed away Thursday, October 2, 2008. She was born February 22, 1926 in Markham, TX to Joe Gonzales and Teresa Losoya Gonzales. She was a lifelong resident of Matagorda County and was a member of Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church.

She is survived by her daughter: Patricia Lozano & husband Edward Medina of San Antonio, TX; her son: Rudy Lozano & wife Teddi of East Bernard; her sister: Teresa Luna of Manvel, TX; her brothers: Joe Gonzales of Wharton, Marcus Gonzales and Richard Gonzales, both of Bay City; by 5 grandchildren: Rodney Lozano, Randall Lozano, Rae Hernandez, Renae Hernandez and Pariz Medina; and by 8 great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband: Carmel A. Lozano; and by her parents: Joe & Teresa Gonzales.

The Rosary will be recited at 8:00 PM Saturday, October 4, 2008 at Taylor Bros. Funeral Home. The Funeral Mass will be held at 2:00 PM Sunday, October 5, 2008 at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church with Rev. Gerry Cernoch officiating. Interment will follow at Roselawn Memorial Park in Van Vleck, TX. Pallbearers will be: Dan Hernandez, Rick Hernandez, Randall Lozano, Rodney Lozano, Al Luna and Edward Medina.

Words of comfort may be shared with the family at www.taylorbros.net

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

www.taylorbros.net                                  Photo courtesy of Faye Cunningham
 

Paul Lozano, Sr., 79, of Bay City, passed away Monday, April 6, 2009. He was born January 15, 1930 in Greyburg, Texas to Maria Anguiano and Epemenio Lozano.

He was a lifelong resident of Bay City, a member of Our Lady of Guadalupe Parish, and a veteran of the US Army.

He is survived by: his wife, Lucia Barron Lozano; his children, Mary Isabel Lozano, Jose Anthony Lozano, Pete Lozano and wife Debbie, Guadalupe Lozano and wife Veronica, Paul Lozano Jr. and wife Evelyn, Martha Sharpe and husband Christopher, Dolores Schurtz and husband Joel, Rachel Huerta and husband Raul, Vicente Gonzalez and wife Helen, and Lucy Lozano Woodward and husband Paul; by his sister, Maria Louisa Lozano Rodriguez; and by 29 grandchildren, 23 great grandchildren, and by one great-great grandchild. He was preceded in death by his parents: Maria and Epemenio Lozano; his sisters and brothers: Dolores Perez, Jose Lozano, Carmel Lozano, Zoila Barron, Ceytana Guanajuato and Ramon Rodriguez.

Visitation will begin at 9 a.m. Sunday. The Rosary will be held at 7 p.m. Sunday, April 12, 2009 at Taylor Bros. Funeral Home.

The Funeral Mass will be held at 10 a.m. Monday, April 13, 2009 at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church with the Rev. Gerry Cernoch officiating. Interment will follow at Roselawn Memorial Park in Van Vleck, TX with military honors provided by VFW Post # 2438.

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

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

Bay City Tribune, Published April 8, 2009                                Photo courtesy of Faye Cunningham
 

Ramiro Ray Lozano, 62, of Southaven, Mississippi passed away December 9, 2008 in Memphis, Tennessee.

He was born August 5, 1946 in Houston, Texas to the late Genovevo and Lillie Escobedo Lozano. He was a former resident of Matagorda County, served in the US Army, and worked as a supervisor for Global Aviation Services.

He was preceded in death by two brothers Robert Lozano and Gene Lozano.

Survivors include: his wife, Maria Elda Lozano; daughters, Denise Ann Pernisi and husband Richard of Richmond, Texas, Angela Rae Lozano of Sugarland and Ann Marie Liguez of Houston; brothers, Joe Lozano and Juan Lozano both of Houston; sister, Lillie Rivera and husband Isaac of Houston; grandchildren, Zoe Denet Lozano of Richmond, Ashley Marie Liguez, Abel S. Liguez, Jr., and Anthony S. Liguez all of Houston and great granddaughter, Jescie Marie Pena.

A rosary will be recited at 7 p.m. Sunday, December 14, 2008 at Taylor Bros. Funeral Home. Mass will be at 10 a.m. Monday, December 15, 2008 at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church with the Rev. Gerry Cernoch officiating.

Pallbearers will be Louis Longoria, Ray Sexton, Noe Rodriguez, Paul Gonzalez, Scotty Hahn, and Anthony Liguez.

Honorary Pallbearers will be Jeff Flores, Brandon Huddleston, and Abel Liguez Jr. He will be interred at the Houston National Cemetery 2:15 PM Monday, Dec. 15, 2008.

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

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

Bay City Tribune, Published December 14, 2008
 

LAURIE LYNN LUBBERS
Sept. 21, 1951 - Oct. 22, 2010

BAY CITY - Laurie Lynn Lubbers, age 59, was called Home to Eternal rest with her Heavenly Father on Friday, Oct. 22, 2010. Laurie will be forever remembered by all - for her kind heart and her loving spirit. She was born in Alameda, Calif., to Ruth and Bob Hanzen, and will be met in Heaven by her daddy, Bob.

Laurie married Bill Lubbers on Oct. 12, 1973, in Spring Branch and renewed her vows to Bill on their 37th anniversary, Oct. 12, 2010. In 1979, Laurie and Bill moved to Bay City to raise their two children, Melanie and Nathan Lubbers.

Laurie is survived by her mother, Ruth Hanzen, and her loving and devoted husband, Bill Lubbers. She is also survived by her children, Nathan Lubbers, her daughter, Melanie and her husband Eric Owens, as well as by her three treasured granddaughters, Bryce, Tristyn, and Jordyn Owens. Laurie is also survived by her brother, Bruce Hanzen; many brothers and sisters in law, Jim and Mary Lubbers, Charlie and Joan Lubbers, John and Janet Lubbers, Mary Jean and Jeff Craig, Sue and Bob Sizemore; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Laurie was a member of Holy Cross Catholic Church. Those who knew Laurie will miss her always and can take comfort in knowing that there is another angel in Heaven.
Visitation will be Sunday, Oct. 24, at Taylor Bros. Funeral Home from 4-7 p.m. followed by the praying of the Chaplet of Divine Mercy at 7p.m. We will celebrate Laurie's life with a Funeral Mass at Holy Cross Catholic Church at 10:30 a.m. on Monday, Oct. 25, 2010, with the Rev. Casey Jarzombek officiating.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you make a donation to the American Cancer Society in Laurie's honor.

Arrangements with Taylor Bros. Funeral Home, Bay City, 979-245-4613, www.taylorbros.net.

Published in Victoria Advocate on October 24, 2010
 

Anne N. Lucas

Graveside services for Anne N. Lucas, 84, of Dallas, formerly of El Maton, will be held 2 p. m. Tuesday at Hawley Cemetery, Blessing, with the Rev. Wil Bailey officiating.

Mrs. Lucas was born Dec. 13, 1904, in East Bernard to John K. and Francis Janik Novosad and died May 13, 1989, in Dallas.

She was a member of the Methodist church.

Survivors include a daughter, Betty Jo Gavitt of Dallas; a sister, Martha Naiser of East Bernard and two grandsons, Lucas and Charlton Gavitt, both of Dallas.

Memorials can be made to Hus School Memorial Fund, in care of the Brethren Church, P. O. Box 614, Caldwell, Texas 77836 or Casa View United Methodist Church Memorial Fund, 9998 Ferguson Road, Dallas, Texas 75228.

Local arrangements are with Taylor Brothers Funeral Home, Bay City.

The Daily Tribune, May, 1989
 

Joe F. Lucas

Joe F. Lucas, 76, a resident of El Maton died March 20 at the Wagner General Hospital. He was a member of the Unity of the Brethren and the S. P. J. S. T. Survivors include: Mrs. Anne Novosad Lucas of El Maton; daughter, Mrs. Betty Jo Gavitt of Dallas; 2 sisters: Mrs. Emalia Baros of Westhoff; brother, Ed. J. Lukas; 2 grandchildren: Lucas Sterling and Charlton Bonham Gavitt. Funeral services will be held March 22 at 11 a. m. at Taylor Bros. Chapel with Rev. Josef A. Barton officiating. Interment will be at the Hawley Cemetery with pallbearers being: Sam and Jim Naiser, Edwin, George, Henry and Bennie Baros. Arrangements with Taylor Bros. Funeral Home.

The Daily Tribune, March, 1978
 

Santiago "Jimmy" Luera Sr., 51, of Bay City passed away Tuesday, December 17, 2008 in Houston.

He was born September 30, 1957 in New Gulf, Texas to Delia Martinez Luera and Emilio Luera Sr..

Jimmy is survived by: his parents, two sons; Santiago "Jimmy" Luera Jr. and Paul Anthony Luera both of Bay City; sister, Belma Davalos of Angleton; two brothers, Emilio Luera Jr. of Angleton and Ricardo Luera Sr. of Bay City; two grandchildren, Brailynn Luera of Wadsworth and Jaiden Luera of Orange Park, Florida; four nieces; three nephews; five great nieces; and four great nephews.

He was preceded in death by his grandparents: Macedino and Lazara Luera and Juan and Herminia Martinez.

A Prayer Service will be held 7 p.m. Friday, December 19, 2008 at Taylor Bros. Funeral Home with the Rev. George T. Vasquez officiating.

A Funeral Service will be held 2 p.m. Saturday, December 20, 2008 at Taylor Bros. Funeral Home with the Rev. Bobby Pena officiating.

Interment will follow at Cedarvale Cemetery.

Pallbearers will be: George Correa, Tim Davalos Jr., Emilio Longoria Jr., David Garza, Robert DeLarosa, and Alfred Gutierrez.

Honorary Pallbearers will be: Jesse Mireles and Danny Correa III.

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

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

Bay City Tribune, Published December 21, 2008

Photo courtesy of Faye Cunningham
 

Alma B. Luna
(September 9, 1911 - September 24, 2010)

Alma Belle Luco Luna, 99, was born in Wharton, TX to Louis and Alma Walker Luco on Sept. 9, 1911. She passed away September 24, 2010. She grew up in Wharton and graduated from High School there in 1930. She married W. Vernon Luna in 1936. She was a homemaker and ran a Day Care out of her home retiring in 1974. She was a member of the First United Methodist Church in Bay City were she belonged to the Lydia Group Fellowship Group. She was also a member of the Eastern Star.

Her parents, husband, and 2 brothers preceded her in death. She is survived by one daughter, Ada Mauldin; one sister Helen Denson; two grandchildren; two nephews and one niece.

The family will receive friends and relatives from 6pm – 8pm Wednesday at the funeral home. Funeral service will be 10:00 AM Thursday, Sept. 30, 2010 at the First United Methodist Church in Bay City with Rev. Jeff Gantz officiating. Interment will follow at Roselawn Memorial Park. Memorials may be made to the First United Methodist Church of Bay City.

Bay City Tribune, Wednesday, September 28, 2010                                                            Photo courtesy of Faye Cunningham

Freddie Atwell Luna Sr. 90, of Victoria passed away Sunday, January 18, 2009.

He was born in Trenton to the late Willie Bruce and Mattie Ila Gray Luna. Mr. Luna served his country during World War II as a member of the U.S. Navy. He was a mechanic for 68 years and 43 years was with Atzenhoffer Chevrolet. Mr. Luna resided in Galveston, Bay City and Victoria. He was an avid fisherman, shrimper, and into oystering. He loved his grandchildren, and family. He was devoted to his late wife Irene, and was her care provider during the last years of her life.

He is survived by: his daughter, Monica DeLaine Luna Wagner of San Diego, California; son, Larry Luna and wife Linda of Victoria; daughter-in-law, Cindy Luna of Amarillo; five grandchildren, 11 great-grandchildren, and three Great-great-grandchildren.

In addition to his parents, Mr. Luna is preceded in death by his wife, Irene Mae Cantrell Luna, son, Freddie A. Luna Jr., sister, Edna Opal Luna McDonald; brother, Gerald Ray Luna.

Visitation was from five until 7 p.m. Tuesday, January 20, 2009 at Grace Funeral Home.

Funeral Services were 2 p.m. Wednesday, January 21, 2009 at Grace Funeral Home with the Rev. Ralph Baidoo officiating.

Burial will follow at Resurrection Cemetery.

Pallbearers are Val McDonald, Kevin Franke, Wayne Cantrell, Chase Tisdale, Wesley Tisdale, Blake Tisdale, and Joe Smith.

Memorials may be made to the American Cancer Society.

Grace Funeral Home, 361-573-4341 in charge of arrangements.

Bay City Tribune, Published January 25, 2009
 

C. G. LUNDY

After a short illness of pneumonia, C. G. Lundy died at his home in Blessing this morning at 7:30 o’clock.

Deceased was section foreman at the place, having moved from Buckeye only a short time ago.

At the time of this notice funeral arrangements had not been made.

The Matagorda County Tribune, October 25, 1918
 

David Leslie Lusty
(January 22, 1918 - June 11, 2007)

David Leslie Lusty, 89, of Van Vleck passed away June 11, 2007. He was born January 22, 1918 in Wickes, Arkansas to John and Agness A. Cooke Lusty. He was a member of the First Baptist Church in Van Vleck and a veteran of WWII.

Survivors include daughters & spouses, Dorothy Tise of Houston, Elizabeth & Bill Johnson, Sandra Clayton Joyner and Mary & Guy Snyder all of Van Vleck; sons & spouses David Lusty, Jr & Kathy of Lonsdale, Arkansas, Martin & Karen Lusty of Humble, TX, Bobby & Diane Lusty of Los Angeles, CA and James & Eileen McKissick of Bay City; 26 grandchildren, 43 great grandchildren and 12 great great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his wives Novella Lusty and Ivy Mae Lusty.

Funeral service will be 2:00 PM Thursday, June 14, 2007 at Taylor Bros. Funeral Chapel with Rev. Allen K. Lowe officiating. Interment will follow at Roselawn Memorial Park. Pallbearers will be Matt Cockrell, Danny Johnson, Randy Joyner, Dean Lusty, Ross Eidlebach and Sam Cox. Members of the Men’s Sunday School Class at the First Baptist Church in Van Vleck will serve as honorary pallbearers. Arrangements with Taylor Bros. Funeral Home in Bay City. 979-245-4613.

www.taylorbros.net
 

Ivy McKissick Lusty

VAN VLECK -- Ivy McKissick Lusty, 80, of Van Vleck, died Tuesday, Jan. 8, 2002.

She was born July 13, 1921, in Lewisville, Ark., to the late John A. and Edna Lou Smith Jones. She was a homemaker and a member of First Baptist Church in Van Vleck.

Survivors: husband, David Les Lusty; daughters, Elizabeth Johnson, Sandra Joyner and Mary Snyder, all of Van Vleck; son, James A. McKissick of Wadsworth; sisters, Thelma McKissick of Buckeye, Dorothy Bandy of Houston, Jean McClemens of Texarkana, Ark., and Kathrine Stiles of Kansas City, Mo.; 16 grandchildren; 36 great-grandchildren; and three great-great-grandchildren.

Preceded in death by: first husband, James ''Jake'' McKissick; parents; and brother, John A. Jones Jr.

Services will be 2 p.m. today at Taylor Bros. Funeral Home chapel, the Rev. Joe Ramsey officiating.

Burial will be at Roselawn Memorial Park. Taylor Brothers Funeral Home, Bay City, 979-245-4613.

Pallbearers: Danny Johnson, Randy Joyner, Steven Snyder, Guy Snyder Jr., Sam Cox and Matthew Cockrell.

Memorials: Van Vleck First Baptist Church Building Fund.

Victoria Advocate, Thursday, January 10, 2002