Matagorda County Obituaries
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Martha Mae Adams Lacy
(August 3, 1937 - July 27, 2012)

Martha Mae (Quinney) Adams Lacy, 74, of Bay City, went to rest with her Heavenly Father on Friday, July 27, 2012. She was born August 3, 1937 in Bay City to the late G.W. Adams and Annie Ella Slone Adams. Martha graduated from Bay City HS in 1955, and later graduating from WCJC School of Nursing 1970. From there the world was her “Clinic”. She devoted her life to God, family and nursing. After graduation she worked at Matagorda General Hospital for several years. After leaving there she went to work for Dr. James E. Cowart, and where his entire family embraced her. It took 33 years to tutor him. Martha always said, “ When I retire I’m going to write a book. “Jim Ed and Me” Because of her love of nursing and caring for others, she retired 4 times. There was always a need for Martha Mae to nurse somewhere. She took a “PRN” position with the Bay City Independent School District and loved to nurse at the various schools, giving prescribed medications, and just simply nursing and caring for children.

Martha served as Disaster Relief Nurse Red Cross for several years; Matagorda School Board for two terms; Crime Stoppers for two terms; Multiple Health Fairs; Texas League LVN’s and Gulf Coast League of LVN’s. While belonging to these organizations she served locally and state in all positions. She was voted “NURSE of The YEAR” twice and runner-up twice. She was also, director of music at First Baptist Church in Matagorda, which led her into Gospel singing at various places.

Martha is survived by her son: Odie Milner & wife Kim; daughter: Suzan L. Thompson; granddaughters: Shelley Anderson, Korey Milner Anderson & husband Erik, and Kaitlyn Milner; grandsons: Bubba Simons and Kyle Milner & wife Katy; great granddaughters: Madison Ann Simons, Kinsley Rae Simons, and Lacy Kathleen Anderson (namesake); great grandson: Ryver Clay Anderson; and brother: Ed Quinney & wife Lois. She was preceded in death by husband: John A Lacy; grandmother: Martha Slone; mother: Annie Adams; father: G. Wallace Adams; grandsons: Jason Anderson and Zachery Matthew Milner.

The family will receive visitors from 5:30 PM to 6:30 PM Monday, July 30, 2012 at the funeral home. The funeral service will be held 2:00 PM Tuesday, July 31, 2012 at Calvary Baptist Church. Interment will follow at Matagorda Cemetery. Pallbearers will be, her grandsons: “Bubba” Simons, Erik Anderson, Kyle M. Milner, extended family: OW Parker, David PeVey, Joseph Quinney, and Ronald Andrews, Jr. Honorary Pallbearers will be: Thomas Frieze, Simon DeSoto, Larry Fitzpatrick, Stephen E. Quinney, and Rick DeLeon. And waiting to escort her into heaven: Jason Anderson, Zachery Matthew Milner.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Jason Anderson Memorial Scholarship at c/o Lynsey Buss Curtner, 2305 Linwood Lane, Bay City, Texas 77414, the Dr. James Cowart Scholarship Fund at Stephen F. Austin State University, c/o SFA Alumni Association, P.O. Box 6096-SFA Station, Nacogdoches, TX 75962, or Calvary Kids at c/o Calvary Baptist Church, 3321 6th St., Bay City, Texas 77414.

www.taylorbros.net                         Photo courtesy of Faye Cunningham
 

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 15, 1977
 

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
 

Rites Friday For Ashby Pioneer, 86

Sterling Landers, 86, of the Ashby community, passed away at Wagner General Hospital Wednesday afternoon. Funeral services will be 2 p. m. Friday at Taylor Brothers Funeral Chapel, Rev. Claude Cagle of the Markham Methodist Church officiating. Interment will be in Hawley Cemetery.

Landers had been a resident of Matagorda county for 63 years, living in the Ashby community for many years. He was a farmer, a member of the Woodman of the World and Blessing Masonic Lodge No. 411.

Survivors include his wife, Mrs. Elizabeth Landers; three sisters, Mrs. Elizabeth Marchant and Mrs. Jewel Reagon, both of Sweetwater, and Mrs. Merta Godfrey of Tulsa, Okla.; and three brothers, O. G. Landers of Roby, Texas, Bryan Landers of Lubbock and H. K. Landers of Temple.

Pallbearers will be A. W. Hurta, R. E. Terry, Oscar Havlik, Vic Burchfield, W. M. Epperson, Steve Rickaway. The Blessing Masonic Lodge No. 411 will conduct the graveside services.

Arrangements are under the directions of Taylor Brothers Funeral Home.

Palacios Beacon, June 2, 1966
 

Artie Latham

COMMERCE—Artie B. Latham, 91, of Cumby, died Monday at Oak Manor Nursing Home in Commerce. There is a graveside service at 10 a. m. Friday at Hawley Cemetery in Bay City.

Born Nov. 25, 1907 in Hopkins County, she was the daughter of Fess L. Wright and Sarah Bowen. She was a homemaker and was a member of First Baptist Church in Cumby. She married Cecil H. Latham.

Surviving are daughters Charlene Latham Strickland of Cumby and Claudia Faye Latham Winters of Boyd; a son, W. H. “Doc” Latham of Lake Charles, La.; seven grandchildren; 17 great-grandchildren and four great-great-grandchildren.

Her husband and a grandson preceded her in death.

Jones-Walker & Son Funeral Home of Commerce is in charge of arrangements.

Greenville Herald Banner, January 6, 1999
 

Leslie Mae Lawhon

Funeral services for Leslie Mae Lawhon, 93, will be at 3 p. m. today at Geeslin Funeral Home Chapel. Graveside services will be at 10 a. m. Saturday, March 21 at Hawley Cemetery near Bay City.

Mrs. Lawhon was born on March 5, 1905 in Matagorda County. She was married to Tot Lawhon November 17, 1927 in Markham. The Lawhons moved to Alpine in 1975.

Both were instrumental in organizing the Sunshine House with their daughter, Janette Bowers. She was a dedicated quilter for many years at the Sunshine House and was the “resident counselor” for many members and friends while she was quilting. She was an active member of the First United Methodist Church in Alpine, and the senior citizens club.

She is survived by her daughter and son-in-law, Janette and Richard Bowers; grandchildren, Connie Brinker, Clay Cornett, Cole Cornett, and Casey Cornett of Houston, Kelly Albrecht of Alpine and George Bowers of Horseshoe Bay; and nine great grandchildren, Christ and Amy Brinker, Colby and Colton Cornett, Marshall and Stuart Cornett, C. P. and Vivian Albrecht, and Haley Bowers.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Tot, her daughter, Shirley, and all of her seven brothers and one sister.

Memorials can be made to Sunshine House in Alpine.

Daily Tribune, March 15, 1998
 

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.

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 21, 1990
 

Evelyn "Ebbie" Layne
(February 25, 1923 - March 4, 2012)

Evelyn “Ebbie” Johnston Cook Layne, 89, of Blairsville, Georgia passed away Sunday, March 4, 2012. She was born February 25, 1923 in Bay City to the late Earl & Johnnie Benge Johnston.

Survivors include her daughters Sue Daniel (Sumner), Laura Grantham and Kathy Macinnes (Neil); sister Frances Miller; brother Gene Johnston; five grandchildren, Mark and Blake Daniel, Emily Jobson, Matt and Jeff Grantham; eight great grandchildren, Zoe and Hannah Daniel, Joshua and Jacob Daniel, J. W. and Charley Jobson and Jonathan and Emily Grantham. She was preceded in death by her parents, Earl Johnston and Johnnie Johnston; husbands Roy Cook and Landon Layne; brother Jack Johnston; sisters Kathryn Hayes and Mary Ann Melton and son-in-law John Grantham.

The family will receive visitors from 12:30 PM to 1:30 PM Friday, March 9, 2012 at Taylor Bros. Funeral Home. A graveside service will be held 2:30 PM Friday, March 9, 2012 at Roselawn Memorial Park in Van Vleck.

Taylor Bros. Funeral Home

Arthur Roy Cook & Evelyn Cook - Roselawn Memorial Park - Photo courtesy of Faye Cunningham

 

Antonia Lee
(February 14, 1928 - February 13, 2012)

Antonia “Toney” Lee, 83, of Blessing passed away February 13, 2012. She was born February 14, 1928 in Snook, Texas to the late Lukas Antone Prihoda and Apolena Geraldine Mader Prihoda. She loved spending time with her family. She also loved flowers and operated a nursery out of her home for several years.

Her husband Melvin Lee, sister Lena Prihoda and brother Rudy Prihoda all preceded her in death. Survivors include sons Robert Volek, Sr. of El Campo, Marvin Volek and wife Dana of Alvin and Andrew Volek of El Campo; sister Lillie Machacek; brother Lucas Prihoda; grandchildren Karen, Kim, Robbie, Kris, Kenny, Cassandra, Matthew, Darren and Jessica and nine great grandchildren.

A rosary will be recited at 7PM Tuesday, Feb. 14, 2012 at Taylor Bros. Funeral Home in Bay City. Mass will be 10:00 AM Wednesday, Feb. 15, 2012 at St. Peter’s Catholic Church in Blessing with Rev. Peter Yeboah-Amanfo officiating. Interment will follow at Garden of Memories Cemetery in El Campo. Pallbearers will be Matthew, Darren, Kenny, & Kris Volek, Bassilio Flores, Sr. Bassilio Flore, Jr. Kevin Tucker and Thomas Martin. Honorary pallbearers will be Robbie Volek, Scooter Machacek, Steve Prihoda and Travis Clark.

Victoria Advocate, February 15, 2012
 

Bay City Tribune, Saturday, February 4, 2012
 

Jerry Alvin Lee

A memorial service for Jerry Alvin Lee will be held Saturday at the Blessing American Legion Hall.

Mr. Lee died Oct. 10, 1992.

Survivors include two sons, Jay Lee and Shawn Lee, both of Palacios; his mother, Ruth Lee of Palacios; a sister, Connie Lavat of Houston and a nephew, Kevin Latat of Austin.

Daily Tribune, October 28, 1992
 

Funeral Rites Held Yesterday For John Lee

Funeral services for John Lee, 83-year-old resident of Blessing, were held yesterday at Hawley Cemetery with Rev. Harry Rankin of the First Methodist Church here officiating.

The aged Blessing resident had no known survivors. He has been a resident of Blessing since 1907. Death was the result of natural causes.

Taylor Bros. Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.

Matagorda County Tribune, February 3, 1947

Blessing

John Lee, 89 years old, resident of Blessing since 1907, was found dead in his room Saturday. He was a partial invalid, having lost a leg some 25 years ago in an accident. He had no known survivors. Funeral services were held Sunday at Hawley Cemetery and remains interred.

Newspaper unknown, February 6, 1947
 

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, Monday February 17, 1985
 

A memorial service for Ruth Lee will be at 1 p.m. on Friday, October 28, 2005, at the Blessing Community Center in Blessing, Texas.

Survivors include: daughter, Connie Lavat; three grandsons, Kevin Lavat, Jay Lee and Shawn Lee; three great-grandchildren, Trey, Jacob and Taylor; two brothers, Dale Gredvig and Burton Gredvig.

Bay City Tribune, October 26, 2005
 

Henry Roger Legg, Sr.

Funeral services for Henry Roger Legg Sr., 76, of Houston will be held 10 a.m. Tuesday at the Taylor Brothers Funeral Home chapel with the Rev. David Kleinfeldt officiating and Glen Sedam assisting. Burial will follow at Hawley Cemetery in Blessing.

The family will receive friends and relatives at 7 p.m. today at the Taylor Brothers Funeral Home chapel.

Mr. Legg was born July 17, 1914, to Roger Kay Legg and Viola B. Merck Legg in Collegeport and died March 16, 1991, at St. Joseph’s Hospital in Houston.

A resident of Bay City until 1964, he was a member of the First Christian Church in Bay City.

He is survived by his wife, Alma Ray Legg of Houston; three daughters, Kay Francis Cheek of Victoria, Valerie Ryman of Bay City and Jo Ann Crow of Bay City; two sons, Roger Legg of Houston and Allen Ray Crow of Bay City; five grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren.

Pallbearers are Patrick Mahurin, Duane Ryman, Bryan Fonville, Dale Fonville, Keith Kilgore, Greg Schulze, Michael Saizan and Jarred Saizan.

Arrangements are with Taylor Brothers Funeral Home, Bay City.

Daily Tribune, March 17, 1991
 

Roger Kay Legg

Funeral services for Roger Kay Legg, 99, of Houston will be held at 3 p.m. Tuesday at Taylor Brothers Funeral Home chapel with the Rev. Dave Hylan officiating. Burial will be in Hawley Cemetery, Blessing.

Mr. Legg was born July 12, 1886, in Cedar Creek, Texas, and died 5:30 p.m. Feb. 2, 1986, in West Houston Medical Center.

A resident of Bay City for over 30 years, he was retired from Texas Gulf Sulfur after 25 years of service. He was a member of First Christian Church.

Survivors include a brother, Cecil Legg of Markham, a grandson, H. Roger Legg Jr. of Houston; a granddaughter, Kay Legg Mahurin of Houston; and a great-grandson, Patrick W. Mahurin of Houston.

Pallbearers include Dean Merck Jr., John M. Merck Jr., Deu Pree Snell, Michael A Mahurin, Stephen A. Mahurin and Albert Hoffman.

He was preceded in death by his wife of 72 years, Viola Merck Legg, and a son, Henry Roger Legg Sr. of Houston.

Arrangements are with Taylor Brothers Funeral Home.

The Daily Tribune, February 3, 1986
 

Viola B. Legg

Funeral services for Viola B. Legg, 89, of Houston, formerly of Bay City, will be held at 9 a.m. Tuesday at Lake O’Woods Chapel, Forest Park Lawndale Funeral Home, Houston, with the Rev. Dave Hylan officiating.

Additional funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. Tuesday at Taylor Brothers Funeral Home Chapel, Bay City, with the Rev. Dave Hylan and Elder Glenn Sedam of First Christian Church, Bay City, officiating. Burial will be in Hawley Cemetery, Blessing.

Mrs. Legg was born April 21, 1895, and died March 3, 1985, in Houston where she resided for three years

She is a former member of First Christian Church, Bay City.

Survivors include her husband, Roger K. Legg of Houston; a son, Henry Legg Sr. of Houston; a son, Henry Legg Sr. of Houston; two brothers, Dean Merck of Collegeport and Gerald Merck of San Antonio; four sisters, Theora McRee and Elve Martin, both of Houston, Jessie Kilpatrick and Bessie Wilson, both of Dallas; two grandchildren; and one great-grandchild.

Pallbearers include Albert Hoffman, John M. Merck, DePree Snell, Steve Mahurin, Mike Mahurin, John McGee and Dean Merck Jr.

Funeral arrangements are with Forest Park Lawndale Funeral Home, Houston.

The Daily Tribune, March 4, 1985
 

Michael J. Leibold

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

Leibold died October 1, 1962 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 5, 1962
 

Ruth May Schwabe Leissner
July 12, 1924 - July 21, 2023

Ruth May Schwabe Leissner of Bay City, Texas passed away on July 21, 2023 at the age of 99. She was born July 12, 1924 in Hochheim, Texas to Emil and Eva McGehee Schwabe.

Ruth graduated from Yoakum HS in 1940, Victoria Junior College in 1942, and received her BBA from Texas A&I in 1946. She began her teaching career at 18 years old, while pursuing her college degree in the summers, Her first year teaching was at the O’Connor Ranch (a one room school house) in Refugio County. Other area schools she taught at were Vanderbilt HS, Van Vleck HS, Jeff Davis Elementary and Pierce Elementary in Bay City. While teaching at Vanderbilt HS one of her students, Jake Leissner, set her up with his brother, Vernon Leissner. After a brief courtship, they married and moved to Bay City in August 1946. She taught several generations of families and always cherished many life-long friendships of former students. She retired after 26 years.

She was an active member if the Bay City Presbyterian Church and a Life Member of Presbyterian Women, Teacher Retirement Association and recipient of the Melvin Jones Fellowship Award of Lions Club International. In retirement, Ruth compiled photo album-scrapbooks for each of her 8 grandchildren and organized the family’s genealogy records. She loved and adored her grandchildren. She was very active and supportive in all their activities, especially at the family ranch. Ruth was well known for her impeccable memory and sharp wit, especially the countless stories she could recall and tell in detail. She enjoyed playing cards and was active in many bridge groups for over 60 years.

Ruth was preceded in death by her parents; her husband of 66 years, Vernon Allison Leissner; her daughter Leah Leissner Sedlacek, and her siblings Emil Edward Schwabe and Mary Louise Schwabe Wenske. She is survived by her sons Al Leissner (Charlotte), Denton Leissner (Linda)’ son-in-law Larry Sedlacek; grandchildren Lance, Amber, Lee (Amanda), Stuart (Catherine), Sara (Wes), Chance (Lindsey), Poth (Tyler), Cole (Cassie); seven great-grandchildren; sister Doris Anne Kaiser, and in-laws Glen and Leura Leissner and Madelyn Ann Sutton.

Ruth and her family were blessed, thankful and grateful for Teresa Ortiz, her caregiver for over 4 years. Also, much appreciation to Letha, Jovita and Gloria, and Angels Care Hospice, especially Alex.

Graveside services will be held at Roselawn Memorial Park Pavilion Sunday, July 22, 2023 at 2:00 pm. Pallbearers are her 8 grandchildren. Honorary pallbearers are Glen Leissner, Robert Allison, John Dickerson III, Malcolm Romine, Kenneth Seifert and Paula Dimukes Davis.  A reception will follow at Robbins Hall First Presbyterian Church in Bay City.  

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the First Presbyterian Church Scholarship Fund, the Bay City Lions Club or the charity of your choice.

Taylor Bros. Funeral Home
 

Vernon Allison Leissner Sr.
(December 4, 1921 - July 1, 2012)

Vernon Allison Leissner Sr., 90, of Bay City passed away Sunday, July 1, 2012. He was born to Jacob A. Leissner and Annie Bosak Leissner December 4, 1921, near Danevang, TX. The family relocated to LaSalle, TX. Vernon graduated from Edna High School in 1939 and attended Schreiner College for one year. He enlisted in the Navy in April of 1942, and served to November of 1945 as a Chief Signalman with 36 months of sea duty. He returned home, met his brother Jake’s teacher, Ruth Schwabe and after a brief courtship, married and moved to Bay City, in August of 1946.

Vernon was the former owner of Bay City Abstract and Title Company, and a Rancher. He was a member and Elder of the First Presbyterian Church since 1946. As a life member, Vernon had over 65 years of membership in the Bay City Lions Club, American Legion, VFW Post 2438, Bay City Masonic Lodge, Gulf Coast Shrine Club, Honorable Life Membership in the Matagorda County Real Estate Association, and Texas Lions Club Children’s Camp. Vernon served as president of the Bay City Chamber of Commerce, Little League, and Bay City Country Club. He was awarded the Jack Wiech Fellow and the Melvin Jones awards by the Lions Club. Vernon was named the 2007 Lion of the year.

Vernon suffered a severe stroke in 1991, and then it was “Life After Stroke”, but with that same smile and the support of a loving family he and Ruth attended church, many baseball games, Scout and FFA Events, and Family Gatherings. He was an avid outdoorsman. He loved all the hunting and fishing trips to the 5L Ranch with the family.

Vernon is survived by his loving wife of 66 years: Ruth Leissner; 2 sons: V. Allison Leissner & wife Charlotte and Denton Leissner & wife Linda; daughter: Leah Sedlacek & husband Larry; 8 grandchildren: Lance, Amber, Lee, Chance, Poth, and Cole Leissner, Stuart and Sarah Sedlacek; brother: Glen Leissner & wife Leura; 3 sisters: Atemsa Lamb & husband Ortie, Alta Lee Whitmore, and Madlyn Ann Sutton; sister-in-law: Elaine Leissner; and many dear nephews, nieces, and cousins. He was preceded in death by his parents, brother Jake Leissner, brother-in-law Jack Whitmore, step mother Cleo “Miz Gus” Leissner, and step brother Floyd Schiewitz.

The family will receive visitors from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM Monday July 2, 2012 at the funeral home. A funeral service will be held 1:00 PM Tuesday, July 3, 2012 at the First Presbyterian Church of Bay City with Dr. Mark Stoub officiating. Interment will follow at Roselawn Memorial Park in Van Vleck. Pallbearers will be his grandchildren. Honorary Pallbearers will be: Lions Club Members, Charlie Slocum, Kenneth Seifert, Malcom Romine, Paula Davis, Robert Allison, Albert Ainsworth, and Frank Baker and Bert Huebner.

Our Prayers and a special “Thank You” to the Angels Home Health Care and Letha Austin, Dr. Cannon, Dr. Dada, and Dr. Hanna.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the Texas Lions Club Children’s Camp, P. O. Box 290247, Kerrville, TX 78029, The First Presbyterian Church Scholarship Fund, or Charity of Choice.

Taylor Bros. Funeral Home                      Photo courtesy of Faye Cunningham

Lemcke Services Will Be Saturday

Barney Lemcke, 81, died Thursday night at Matagorda County General Hospital.

Services will be held at Taylor Brothers Funeral Home at 10 a. m. on Saturday, with Rev. Vernon Rabel to officiate with interment in Hawley Cemetery.

He is survived by his wife, Mrs. Lena Lemcke of El Maton, one daughter, Mrs. Nellie Mae Shindler of Midfield and one brother, Gus Lemcke of Bullard, Texas.

Daily Tribune, January 13, 1956
 

Burt Lenz

Funeral services for Burt Lenz were held at the Palacios Funeral Home Chapel at 2 p.m. Tuesday, April 6, with the Rev. Leslie E. Webb officiating. Interment was in Hawley Cemetery.

Son of John and Mattie Lenz, he was born February 7, 1894 in Victoria and had been a resident of Palacios for 31 years. He was a retired carpenter. He died Sunday, April 4, in Leisure Lodge.

He is survived by three daughters, Katherine Brown of Palacios, Belle Dufner of El Campo, Mattie Nelson of Bayou la Batre, Ala.; two sons, Ernest Lenz of Palacios and Arthur Lenz of Midwest City, Okla.; one sister, Belle Hilliard of Victoria; two brothers, John Lenz of California and Luther Lenz of Victoria; __ grand children and 20? great grandchildren.

Unknown newspaper, April, 1976
 

Mrs. Elmore [Elmere] Lenz Funeral In Hawley

PALACIOS—Funeral services for Mrs. Elmore [Elmere] Dawdy Lenz, 62, were held from the Palacios Funeral Home, Thursday, August 2, at 2:30 p. m. with Rev. N. F. Danning officiating. Burial was in the Hawley Cemetery.

Survivors are her husband, Bert Lenz of Palacios. Three daughters Mrs. Mattie Nelson of Palacios, Mrs. Bell Dufner of Blessing, and Mrs. Cathrine Brown of Edna. Two sons, Arthur Lenz of California and Ernest of Palacios. A sister Mrs. Lurline Merrill of Houston. Sixteen grandchildren.

Daily Tribune, August 2, 1956
 

Ernest Anton Lenz

Funeral services for Ernst Anton Lenz, 73, of Palacios will be held 4 p. m. Saturday at the Palacios Funeral Home chapel with Brother Shan Jackson officiating. Burial will follow at Hawley Cemetery in Blessing.

Mr. Lenz was born Jan. 10, 1918, to Burt and Elmere Dawdy Lenz in Victoria and died June 19, 1991, at Wagner General Hospital.

A resident of Palacios for 45 years, he retired as an oil field worker and was a veteran of World War II, serving in the U. S. Army. He was also a member of the Palacios Church of Christ.

Survivors include his wife, Josephine B. Kremlin Lenz of Palacios; daughter, Evelyn Dunn of Palacios; two sons, Donnie L. Lenz of Palacios and Ernest A. “Buddy” Lenz Jr. of Collegeport; one sister, Belle Matthews of El Campo; one brother, Arthur Lenz of Oklahoma City, Okla.; two granddaughters, Lisa and Jolene Dunn of Palacios; and four grandsons, Traylor and Garrett Lenz of Collegeport and Ryan and Cody Lenz of Palacios.

Pallbearers are Pat Nelson, Lloyd Halloway, Ernest Skarpa, Kenneth Petersen, Vernon Wright and Sonny Barrier.

Arrangements are with Taylor Brothers Funeral Home, Palacios.

Daily Tribune, June 20 or 21, 1991

Taylor Bros. Funeral Home
 

LEWIS, JOHN E.

John E. Lewis, 72, of Markham, Texas died August 13, 2000 at Southwest Memorial Hospital in Houston. He was born June 15, 1928 in San Augustine, Texas to the late Henry B. and Irene Bruce Lewis. Mr. Lewis was a member of the Baptist Church, a resident of Markham the past 30 years and a carpenter.

Survivors include two daughters and a son-in-law Livia Eve Enochs of Markham, Jerry Ann and Raymond Pyle of Palestine, Texas, two sons and daughters-in-law James Lee and Jennifer Lewis of Markham, Meredith Alden, Jr. and Susanne of Thibadeaux, La; sisters, Mary Fanson of Wadsworth, Jesse Lee Kay of Sinton; brother Lee Roy Lewis of Sinton; 15 grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his wife Mildred June Lewis on November 15, 1993 and by one sister Lois Walker and brothers Henry Lewis, Jr., James Lewis, Ed Lewis and T. J. Lewis.

Funeral Services will be 10 a.m. Wednesday, August 16, 2000, at Taylor Bros. Funeral Chapel with the Rev. Joe Ramsey officiating. Interment will follow at  Hawley Cemetery in Blessing, Texas.

Pallbearers will be Steven Burnett, Keith, John and Troy Pyle, Clinton Dybala and Larry Lewis. Honorary Pallbearers will be Gary Bray, Danny Denn, Darryl Ashcraft, David Orr and George Walker.

The family will receive funds at Taylor Bros. Funeral home Tuesday, evening from 5 to 8 p.m.

Arrangements are with Taylor Bros. Funeral Home. A00011A2000AG15

THE DAILY TRIBUNE, Tuesday, August 15, 2000, Matagorda County, Texas

Mildred Bankhead Lewis

Funeral services for Mildred Bankhead Lewis, 69, of Markham, are scheduled for 10 a. m. Tuesday at the Taylor Brothers Funeral chapel in Bay City with Brother Joe Ramsey officiating. Burial will be in Hawley Cemetery in Blessing.

Mrs. Lewis was born May 6, 1924 to H. R. and Roselee Freeze Bankhead and died Nov. 15, 1993 in Matagorda General Hospital in Bay City.

She was a life-long resident of Markham.

Survivors include her husband, John Lewis of Markham; two daughters, Jerry Ann Pyle of Palestine and Livia Enochs of Markham; two sons, Alden Balinger of Gray, La. and James Leroy Lewis of Markham; two sisters, Elizabeth Myers and Janet Mullins, both of Markham; a brother, A. R. Bankhead of Markham; 19 grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren.

Arrangements are with Taylor Brothers Funeral Home of Bay City.

Daily Tribune, November 16, 1993              Photo courtesy of Pam Davis

William Henry Linder

William Henry Linder, 78, of Blessing died at his residence October 4. Survivors are: wife, Mrs. Priscilla Lindner of Blessing; son, William H. Linder, Jr. of Nacogdoches; sisters, Etta DeLoach and Evelyn Pierce of Palacios and Elisie Elburg of Houston. Funeral services will be held at Taylor Brothers Chapel October 6 at 2 p. m. with Rev. John Tripp officiating. Interment will be at Hawley Cemetery. Arrangements with Taylor Brothers Funeral Home.

Daily Tribune, October 5, 1980      Photo courtesy of Pam Davis

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 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 Domarod, Danny Galvan, Steve Rickaway, Pete Curtner, Ed Bell, G. K. Nelson and Herman Cauffman.

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 28?, 1990
 

Dana Logan

LOGAN, Dana, 86, of Blessing died in the Yorktown Monday night. The funeral will be at 2 p. m. Wednesday at the Taylor Brothers Funeral Home Chapel. The Rev. Leslie Webb of the Palacios Presbyterian Church will officiate. Burial will be in Hawley Cemetery. Survivors include one daughter, Mrs. Florance Kinney; three sons, Victor H. Logan of San Antonio, J. B. Logan of Houston, and M. Logan of Blessing. Also one sister, Mrs. Zella Linvelle of Beaumont, 10 grandchildren, and four great-grandchildren. Taylor Brothers Funeral Home of Bay City is in charge of arrangements.

Daily Tribune, March 5, 1968
 

James H. Logan

Mr. James Henderson Logan passed away at his home in Blessing, August 30, 1940 at 10 a. m. Mr. Logan has been a resident of Blessing for 37 years. He is survived by his wife, Mrs. Dana B. Logan; three daughters, Mrs. W. A. McKinney of Uvalde, Mrs. W. A. Sanford of Blessing, and Mrs. J. S. Montgomery of Brazoria.

Also, he is survived by four sons, Mr. Bert Logan of Sweeny, Mr. Victor H. Logan of San Antonio, Mr. John W. and J. Verns Logan of Blessing.

Funeral services will be held today from the Presbyterian Church, at 3 p. m. with the Rev. George Gillespie officiating.

Burial will be in the Hawley Cemetery under the direction of Taylor Bros.

Daily Tribune, September 12, 1940 (Palacios column)

Obituary--James H. Logan

Mr. James Henderson Logan passed away Friday, Aug. 30, at his home in Blessing, aged 75-years.

Mr. Logan was one of the oldest settlers of Blessing and has done much for the betterment of the community in which he lived.

He is survived by his wife, Mrs. Dana B. Logan, three daughters, Mrs. W. A. McKinney, Uvalde, Mrs. W. A. Sanford, Blessing, and Mrs. J. S. Montgomery, Brazoria, four sons, Bert Logan, Sweeny, Victor H. Logan, San Antonio, John W. and J. Verns Logan of Blessing.

Funeral services were conducted by G. F. Gillespie of Palacios from the Presbyterian Church in Blessing, and the body laid to rest in the Hawley Cemetery.

Palacios Beacon, September 12, 1940
 

Julius Burns Logan

Julius Burns Logan, 62, passed away November 15 in the Veterans hospital in Ft. Lyons, Colorado. Survivors include: 2 brothers, Victor H. Logan of San Antonio and Adelbert M. Logan of Blessing; 1 sister, Mrs. Florence McKenney of San Antonio. Graveside services will be held at Hawley Cemetery November 18 at 2 p. m. with Rev. Leslie Webb of Palacios Presbyterian Church officiating. Interment in Hawley Cemetery. Pallbearers will be: Steve and Jimmy Rickaway, L. P. Neuszer, B. B. Rhodes, Mike Pierce and Lee M. Pierce. Services under the direction of Taylor Bros. Funeral Home.

Daily Tribune, November 17, 1972
 

Mrs. Mary Jane Loman

The funeral of Mrs. Mary Jane Loman who passed to the glory world February 5, 1934 at the home of Mr. and Mrs. T. B. Smith with whom she made her home near Markham, was held Tuesday, February 6 at two o’clock p. m. in the much loved Hawley Cemetery near Blessing, where a large number of friends and relatives gathered to pay their last tribute to the much loved Aunt Mollie as she was called by all who knew her. She had reached the age of seventy years and ten days having finished her work in this world. God saw fit to take her from this world of pain into the home not made with hands but eternity in the heaven where she will meet her loved ones who have passed on before. She was a lifetime member of the Methodist Church and lived a consecrated Christian life up to the time of her death. She died as she had lived trusting in the Lord. Her last words in this life were I am going to be with Jesus, come go with me. She repeated a part of a much loved hymn. Close to Thee, Close to Thee. Gladly will I toil and suffer only let me walk with thee, as the end came she knew she was coming nearer to her savior who she served daily. Her life was a living example for Jesus.

She is gone but not forgotten. Ever will her memory live in the lives of her friends and loved ones. Rev. R. E. Black, pastor of the Markham Baptist Church and Rev. Robert Payne, pastor of the Markham Methodist Church conducted the funeral services which was done in a very wonderful manner. Pallbearers were four of her nephews, Oscar and Joe Smith of El Maton; Edward Thielen of Houston, Ardie Hale of Markham and two of her step-grandsons, Aaron Fondon of Sexton, Jim Fondon of Wadsworth. The newly made mound was covered with beautiful fresh cut flowers put there by the hands of loved ones. May her living and passing be the cause of bringing others to serve the savior she served the one that is able to save to the end. Her loved ones that are left to mourn her going wish to express to their many friends their heartfelt thanks for the floral offering and for the many kind words and deeds of sympathy rendered them during their sad hour. They also express their thanks to the Walker-Matchett undertakers which rendered their service in a most excellent way. May God’s richest blessing be with you in your work also do they thank Bro. Black and Rev. Payne for their words of comfort. God bless you all. Aunt Mollie has left a vacant chair in this world but has filled a vacant chair in this world above that God has prepared for her and all others that love and serve Him. May God guide her loved one in the path that she walked in. The path that leads to rest.

Matagorda County Tribune, February 15, 1934
 

Haleigh Mariah Longoria
Jan. 28, 2004 –July 11, 2012

Haleigh Mariah Longoria, 8, of Blessing passed away July 11, 2012.

She was born January 28, 2004, in Bay City to Santiago Longoria and Tiffany Ruddick Longoria.

She was preceded in death by her paternal grandfather, Manuel Cruz Longoria, Jr.

Survivors include: her parents; sister, Hannah Madilynn Longoria; maternal grandparents, Tracy and Kellie Ruddick of Berea, Kentucky and David and Donna Rodriguez of Georgetown; paternal grandmother, Ursula Longoria of Blessing; maternal great-grandmother, Manuelita Garza of Bay City; and a number of aunts, uncles and cousins.

A rosary will be recited at 7 p.m. Monday, July 16, 2012, at St. Peter’s Catholic Church in Blessing.

Mass will be at 10 a.m. Tuesday, July 17, 2012 at St. Peter’s Catholic Church.

Interment will follow at St. Peter’s Catholic Cemetery.

Pallbearers will be Beno Hernandez, Fernando Gonzales, Gabriel Gonzales, Ben Longoria III, Justin Lara, Shawn Corrillio, T. J. Martinez, Damion Hernandez, Michael Rivera, Alex Rivera, Byron Battle and Antonio Martinez.

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, July 15, 2012
 

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 Bross. Funeral Home.

The Daily Tribune, June 16, 1978
 

Angelina Valdez Lopez
(April 27, 1953 - August 16, 2012)

Angelina Valdez Lopez, 59, of Bay City passed away August 16, 2012 in Houston. She was born April 27, 1953 in Bay City to the late Juan Jose & Julia Rodriguez Valdez. Angelina was a life long resident of Bay City, worked for Bay City Independent School District as a Registrar, and was a member of Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church.

She is survived by her husband: Roselio Lopez of Bay City; daughter: Lorraine Lopez of Bay City; son: Jaime Lopez of Bay City; 2 sisters: Corrina Cortez of Van Vleck and Mary Rose Cox of Bay City; 4 brothers: Jesse Valdez of Missouri City, John Joe Valdez Jr. of Bay City, Lorenzo Valdez Sr. of Bay City, and Guadalupe Valdez of Wharton. Angelina was preceded in death by her parents: Juan Jose & Julia Rodriguez Valdez, and 2 sisters: Mary Guajardo and Mary Helen Paniagua.

The Rosary will be recited 6:30 PM Tuesday, August 21, 2012 at Taylor Bros. Funeral Home. The Mass will be held 10:00 AM Wednesday, August 22, 2012 at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church with Father Gerry Cernoch officiating. Interment will follow at Cedarvale Cemetery in Bay City.

www.taylorbros.net       Photo courtesy of Betty Crosby

Willie Janell Love

Graveside services for Willie Janell Love, infant, were held 2:45 p. m. Tuesday at Hawley Cemetery, Blessing.

She is the daughter of Billy Gilbreth and Willie Love of Missouri City. She is also survived by four brothers and a sister. Mrs. Love is a former resident of Bay City.

Daily Tribune, date unknown
 

Final Rites Are Held Friday For ‘Pat’ Lowry, Auto Accident Victim

Funeral services for Edgar “Pat” Lowry, Matagorda County’s first traffic fatality of 1963, were held at 2 p. m. Friday, January 25, at the First Baptist Church with Rev. Rayford Harris officiating. Interment was in the Hawley Cemetery.

A son of H. S. and Ercel Foster Lowry, he was born February 17, 1908 in Chattanooga, Tennessee. A resident of Matagorda County for many years, he attended Palacios High School. For the past several years he had operated the Phillips 66 Service Station on Highway 35, north. He was married to Eva Smith, who preceded him in death on June 5, 1962.

He was killed Wednesday evening, January 23, about 3.9 miles west of Palacios on State Highway 35.

Survivors include two daughters Sharon Ann and Debra of Palacios; four sons, Robert and George Lowry of Houston, Lacy Lowry of College Station and Patrick Lowry of Palacios; one sister, Mrs. John Merck, Sr. of Collegeport and one brother Herbert Lowry, Jr. of League City.

Palacios Beacon, January 31, 1963
 

Mrs. Edward Lowry Funeral Services Set For Thursday

Tribune Palacios Bureau

Funeral services for Mrs. Edward (Eva) Lowry, 45, of Palacios will be held at 2 p. m. Thursday from the Palacios Funeral Home, with interment in Hawley Cemetery.

Mrs. Lowry died suddenly Tuesday afternoon while enroute to the hospital after having complained of severe headaches.

A native of Boling, where she was born Sept. 16, 1916, Mrs. Lowry had resided in Palacios for the past 15 years.

Survivors include the husband Edward “Pat” Lowry; her mother, Mrs. Tate Hawks; two daughters, Sharon Ann and Debra Ann, all of Palacios; four sons, Robert and George, both of Houston, Lacy of Bryan and Patrick Sidney of Palacios; two sisters, Mrs. Lindel Vasek of Orange and Mrs. Betty Jane Rowe of Lancaster; three brothers, Jack Smith and H. E. Smith of Eagle Lake and J. L. Smith of Houston.

Daily Tribune, June 6, 1962
 

Anne Novosad 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 14 or 15, 1989
 

Lucas Rites Set Tuesday

Funeral rites for former Blessing resident Mrs. Minnie E. Lucas, 93, will be held at 10 a. m. Tuesday at George Lewis and Sons Funeral Chapel in Houston, and graveside rites at 1:30 p. m. at Hawley Cemetery. She was a native of Dickson, Ill. and lived in Blessing from 1905-1943, moving to Houston in that year Mrs. Lucas resided at 5021 Chenault, Houston, and died at 2:45 p. m. Saturday in a Houston hospital. She was a member of the Third Church of Christ, Scientist.

Survivors are three granddaughters, Mrs. Ann Rice and Miss Virginia Lucas of Houston and Mrs. Betty Williams of San Pedro, Calif.

Daily Tribune, July 15, 1963
 

Floyd Lee Luddington
Dec. 4, 1924 – June 2, 2012

Funeral services for Floyd Lee Luddington, 87, of Bay City, will be held at 11 a.m. Friday, June 8, 2012 at Bethel Baptist Church, Bay City, with the Rev. L.C. Cunningham, Jr., eulogist. Burial will follow at Eastview Cemetery.

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

Survivors include: two daughters, Nell Ruth Fontenot (and Joseph) of Orange, Texas, and Mae Kathryn Brown (and Charles) of Missouri City, Texas; and three granddaughters, Jacqueline Monique Sterling of Fresno, California, Neidra Brown Billings (and Benny), and Audria Brown Winston (and Ramon), allof Missouri City; niece, Marva Tanner (and George, Jr.) of San Francisco, California; and cousins, Alex Garison of Palacios and Lucy Miller (and Roy) of Blessing. Also a host of other relatives and friends.

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

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

Bay City Tribune, June 6, 2012     Photo courtesy of Faye Cunningham

Evelyn Howard Jalufka Luker

Funeral Services for Evelyn Howard Jalufka Luker, 60, of Blessing will be held at 3 p. m., Tuesday, August 17, 1999 at Taylor Brothers Funeral Home Chapel in Bay City with Reverend Mark Clemons officiating. Interment will follow at Hawley Cemetery.

Luker died August 15, 1999 surrounded by her three children at her home in Blessing, Texas. She was born November 14, 1939 in El Campo, Texas.

Luker is a graduate of El Campo High School. She was employed as the manager of the American Legion Restaurant in Blessing. Evelyn has lived in Blessing for the past 37 years. She is survived by daughter Kelly Renee Siegler and her husband Sam; son William Bernard Jalufka, Jr., (Billy), and his wife Gail; daughter Lea Michelle Hickl and her husband Ray; two granddaughters Samantha Lea Siegler and Kelsey Jacqueline Siegler, a step-grandson Matthew Hickl and Prissy. She also leaves behind an older sister, Mildred Krebs; older brother, Raymond Howard; and an older sister, Francis Dawson; along with many nieces and nephews.

Pallbearers will be Joe G. (Pill) Sliva, Michael Davant, Lee Edward Pierce, William (Bill) Richardson, Tom Curnutt and Kent Dawson. The family will receive friends at the American Legion following the burial. Arrangements are with Taylor Brothers Funeral Home of Bay City, Texas.

Daily Tribune, August 17, 1999