Matagorda County Obituaries
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Angelita Ramirez

October 18, 1945 - May 16, 2015

Angelita Ramirez, 69, of Bay City, Texas, passed away May 16, 2015.

She was born October 18, 1945, in Houston, Texas, to the late Tony and Augustina Arevalo and was a homemaker.

She is survived by her husband, Luis Ramirez of Bay City; daughter, Nancy Ramirez of Bay City; sons, Benny Gutierrez of Bay City, Luis Ramirez III of Victoria, Tony Ramirez of Bay City and Augustine Ramirez of Victoria; 20 grandchildren; and five great-grandchildren.

Angelita was preceded in death by her parents; sister, Lupe Arevalo; and brothers, Cruz, Joe, Johnny and Thomas Arevalo.

Visitation will begin on Wednesday May 20, 2015, at 1 p.m., at Triska Funeral Home, El Campo, Texas.

A Rosary will be recited at 6 p.m., on Wednesday at the funeral home.

Funeral services will be held on Thursday May 21, 2015, at 10 a.m., at St. Roberts Catholic Church.

Burial will follow at Holy Cross Memorial Park.

Pallbearers will be her sons, and Daniel Padilla and Thomas Ramirez.

Condolences for the family may be left online at www.triskafuneralhome.com

Triska Funeral Home, El Campo, Texas. 979-543-3681

Bay City Tribune, May 20, 2015
 


Geraldine (Jerry) Ramsey

May 30, 1923 – December 19, 1999

 

Funeral services for Geraldine (Jerry) Ramsey, 76, will be held at 10:00 AM Wednesday, December 22, 1999, at First Methodist Church Chapel in Bay City. Interment will follow at Bay City Cemetery. Visitation will be from 1:00 to 3:00 PM Tuesday, December 21, 1999, at Wilkirson-Hatch-Bailey Funeral Home in Waco, Texas.

 

Ms. Ramsey, born Geraldine Crow, died on December 19, 1999, in Waco, Texas. She was born on May 30, 1923, in Lometa, Texas.

 

She is survived by:  two daughters, Susan Parker Hunt of Dallas and Ann Parker Carpenter of Waco; sister, Johnna Norris of Bay City; five grandchildren and six great-grandchildren.

 

The Daily Tribune, December 21, 1999           Photo courtesy of Faye Cunningham

 

 


Charles 'Frank' Rawlins
24 April 1941 – 21 May 2015

BAY CITY - Charles 'Frank' Rawlins of Bay City passed away on May 21, 2015 at Oakbend Medical Center in Richmond, Texas. He was born on April 24, 1941 in San Benito, Texas to Charles and Dorcas Rawlins. He served in the U.S. Army from July 1958 to July 1964. He was an active member of Calvary Baptist Church.

He is survived by his sons: Denton R. Rawlins of Bay City, Alex Campbell, Sherman Rawlins, daughters: Ina Rodriguez(Richard),Carol Rawlins(Christopher Hess), 8 grandchildren and 7 great-grandchildren all from Victoria, Texas. Siblings: Paul Cleveland, Dorcas Sue Kleinhans, Carrol Vice of Bay City and Victor Rawlins of Illinois.

He is preceded in death by his parents and loving wife, Nancy Rinehart Rawlins for 38 years.

A memorial service will be held at 2p.m. on Wednesday, May 27, 2015 at Calvary Baptist Church.

Published in the Victoria Advocate on April 25, 2015
 


Thomas Powell Richards

July 17, 1943 - September 21, 2015

Thomas Powell Richards, 72, returned to his Father in Heaven at 5:50 p.m., on September 21, 2015.

The eldest of four children, born to Thomas Sidney and Edna Maude (“Eddie”) Lawhon Richards, on July 17, 1943, Tom was a proud Aggie, Class of ’65, and in 2006 was named a Distinguished Alumnus. He took every opportunity to recruit what he considered the best of the best for the incoming freshman class. He loved visiting with young people and sharing what he says he learned throughout his life and career, over a cup of coffee in his office.

He began his life long career in the oilfield in South Texas, doing “what nobody else wanted to do”. He hired on with Global Marine as a driller, working and living all over the world. In 1974, he left Global to start his own business, Richards Drilling Company in Bay City, Texas. He joined Penrod Drilling Company, which was later acquired by Diamond Offshore, where he was Sr. Vice President of Operations. In 1996, he was chosen to be the President of DI Industries. In that position, he orchestrated the acquisition of numerous companies in order to create the premier ASE international drilling contractor, Grey Wolf, Inc., where he served as the Chairman, President and CEO, until his retirement in 2008. Tom served as Chairman of the IADC and was named Contractor of the Year in 2002.

Tom was passionate about creating a first class waterfowl habitat at his farm in Wharton County, Texas. He would spend countless hours scouting birds, and just enjoying the sunrise and sunset, from a duck blind. He was an avid wing shooter and made hunting trips all over the world. He became a decoy collector later in life and enjoyed telling the story behind many of his favorites.

Tom gave credit for the success in his life to his wife, Anita, whom he said stood by him through it all. He loved to tell the story of how they were married in Norway, and that since their marriage license was in Norwegian, her Daddy always said he didn’t know if they were really married.

Tom is survived by his loving wife of 44 years, Anita Ramsey Richards; their sons, Ramsey, Jess and wife Stacey, and Jon and wife Sara; his grandsons, Drake, Carter, Myatt, Trent and Landon; his brother, John and wife Susan; his sister, Joanne; and many nieces and nephews.

He is predeceased by his parents; his sister, Sidney Richards McDermand; and his niece, Nancy Richards.

He was a friend and mentor to many; always ready with a smile, hand shake and of course, a cup of coffee. He gave of himself and reveled in the success of those around him.

A Memorial Service in celebration of Tom’s life, will be held on Monday, September 28, 2015, at 4 p.m., at St. John The Devine Episcopal Church, 2450 River Oaks Blvd., Houston, TX, followed by a reception at River Oaks Country Club, 1600 River Oaks Boulevard, Houston, Texas.

Thanks to the family of his lung donor, and his living kidney donor, Tom was able to enjoy an extended life.

Tom was always humbled to have received gifts of this magnitude, and his family will be eternally grateful for the additional time they had with him, because of these selfless acts of kindness.

In lieu of customary remembrances, the family requests, with gratitude, that memorial contributions in Tom’s name, be made to Nora’s Home, Methodist Foundation, Life Gift, Holy Cross Episcopal Church or the Charity of your choice.

Bay City Tribune, September 30, 2015
 

 
Paul H. Richardson

April 4, 1954 - September 12, 2015

Paul H. Richardson, 61, of Van Vleck, Texas, passed away on Saturday, September 12, 2015.

He was born on April 4, 1954, in Phoenix, Arizona, to Hubert and Madge Neuman Richardson.

Paul was a loving husband, father and grandfather, and loved spending time with his family. He worked for Celanese and Oxea for 35 years. Paul loved watching football, and liked to camp and fish.

Paul is survived by his loving wife of 42 years, Sheri Avants Richardson of Van Vleck; children, Teri Hood and husband Roger of Van Vleck, Paul Brandon Richardson and wife Kristine of Van Vleck, Lisa Asif and husband Ghulam of Bay City, Neil Richardson and wife Gwen of Van Vleck; grandchildren, Kristin Richardson, Kyle Richardson, Logan Hood, Skylar Hood, Luke Richardson, Lance Hood, Emma Richardson, Sarah Asif and Sophia Asif; brother, Edward Dannelley and wife Rosie; numerous nieces and nephews; and other loving relatives.

Paul is preceded in death by his parents; brother, Billy Dannelley; and sister, Betty Brooks.

The family received visitors from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m., Monday, September 14, 2015, at the funeral home.

Funeral services were held at 2 p.m., Tuesday, September 15, 2015, at Taylor Bros. Funeral Home in Bay City, Texas, with the Rev. Steven Malone officiating.

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

Pallbearers were Scott Avants, Jonthen Times, Wayne Brooks, Rick Brooks, Chad Hurta and Robbie Zenker.

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

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

Bay City Tribune, September 16, 2015          Photo courtesy of Faye Cunningham


 


Rev. Carlyle Roberson Jr.

Funeral services for Rev. Carlyle Roberson Jr., 84, who passed away August 22, 2015, were held at 2 p.m., Saturday, August 29, 2015, at Evergreen Baptist Church, 635 Highland Park Drive, Clute, Texas, with the Rev. Bostic, eulogist.

Burial followed at Eastview Cemetery in Bay City, Texas.

Visitation was held from 2 p.m. to 8 p.m., Friday, August 28, 2015, at Duncan-Roberts Funeral Home Chapel.

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

Bay City Tribune, August 26, 2015
 


Cecil Lynn Roberts

(December 8, 1923 - October 2, 2015)

Cecil Lynn Roberts of Bay City, TX passed away October 2, 2015 at the age of 91. He was born December 8, 1923, one of four children born to the late Raney R. and Marguerite K. Roberts in Lockhart, TX.

Cecil was a veteran of WWII serving in the Tank Corp and the Air Force. After the war, he worked at Texas Gulf Sulphur as Power Plant Supervisor and retired in 1983 with 35 years of service. Cecil was a Deacon at First Baptist Church and junior high boys Sunday school teacher. He was Chairman of the First Baptist Church Building Committee during the building of the gym, which he drew first draft plans and supervised the construction of. He was President of Bay City Country Club and served on the Board of Directors for several years. He served on the board of the Bay City Public Library and was “the fix-it man” for any building upkeep. A room at the library was dedicated to him last year for his service. Cecil was named Bay City Chamber of Commerce’s “Man of the Year” in 2006. He designed and constructed the golf cart shed, and worked a shift once a month in the office, at the Matagorda County Birding Nature Center and gave free golf lessons to children for several years

Cecil’s wife of 50 years, Lucille C. Roberts, preceded him in death in 2002. He is survived by his daughter Jean Cadenhead of Spring, TX; grandson Steve Cadenhead and wife Sompong and great-grandchildren, Pamela Cadenhead and Kane Junmanee . He is also survived by his step-daughter Mildred Coker and her husband Ron of Galveston, TX; grandson Gregg Coker; great-grandson Austin Coker and wife Jenna and great-great-grandsons, Deegan, Colt and Maverick; granddaughter Donna Coker Tarbox and great-grandchildren Taylor, Trevor, Josh and Jordan.

Visitation will be from 9am until Noon, Sunday, October 4, 2015 at Taylor Bros Funeral Home. Funeral services will be held at 2:00pm Sunday, October 4 at the First Baptist Church of Bay City with Dr. Mike Zimmerman officiating. Interment will follow at Cedarvale Cemetery in Bay City, Texas. Pallbearers are Hollie Briscoe, Tim Hall, Lee Carroll, Bob Allen, John McMillan and Woody Reidel. Refreshments will be served in the Pearl Morton Hall at the First Baptist Church following the graveside service.

Taylor Bros. Funeral Home
 


Joan Robertson

(July 19, 1934 - May 22, 2015)

Joan Robertson, 80, of Bay City passed away May 22, 2015. She was born July 19, 1934 in Smithville, Mississippi to the late Samuel Cason Goddard and Claudia Lurene Chism Goddard.

She is survived by her husband Charles Robertson of Bay City; daughter Cheryl Renee Ramey & husband James of Spring, TX; sons Christopher Lee Robertson of Allen, TX and Charles Michael Robertson of Bay City; grandchildren Rhonda Michelle Brantley & husband Dale and James Brandon Ramey and great grandchildren Sarah Elizabeth Brantley, John Andrew Brantley and Leah Grace Brantley.

The family will receive friends and relatives from 5pm until 7pm Tuesday at the funeral home. Funeral service will be 2:00 PM Wednesday, May 27, 2015, at Taylor Bros. Funeral Chapel with Rev. James Guerrero officiating. Interment will follow at Roselawn Memorial Park. Pallbearers will be Jan Norris, Dale Brantley, Brandon Ramey, Bernie Schneider, Steve Alley and Dan Tanus. Honorary pallbearers will be Bob Allen and Bill Cornman.

Taylor Bros. Funeral Home             Photo courtesy of Faye Cunningham


 


Robison Rites Held Monday

Stanley Lee Robison, 60, died at his residence on Sixth Street Saturday at 11 a. m. Funeral services were set for 4 p. m. Monday at Taylor Brothers Taylor Home with the Rev. Leslie LeGrand and Rev. F. Parke Smith officiating. Interment in Cedarvale Cemetery.

Survivors include his wife, Mrs. Margaret Millican Robison, Bay City, one sister, Miss Roberta Robison, Santa Ana, Calif.; one brother Joe Robison of Austin.

Pallbearers, L. B. Luder, Rowland Rugeley, P. R. Hamill, Arthur Harris, Ken Horton and M. L. Hale

Daily Tribune, August 4, 1959
 


Christina Ann Rodriguez

November 18, 1975 – March 11, 1999

 

Funeral services for Christina Ann Rodriguez, 23, of Bay City, were held at 2:00 PM Monday, March 15, 1999, at the Church of God of Prophecy, Rev. Robert Collins officiating. Interment was at Cedarvale Cemetery.

 

Ms. Rodriguez died March 11, 1999, in Bay City. She was born November 18, 1975, in Matagorda County, to Ralph Rodriguez and Susan Garcia Rodriguez. She was a lifelong resident of Bay City and a member of the Church of God of Prophecy.

 

Ms. Rodriguez is survived by: her father, Ralph Rodriguez of Bay City; mother, Susan Rodriguez Vasquez of El Campo; daughters, Victoria and Chrystal Rodriguez of Bay City; son, Victor Rodriguez of Bay City; paternal grandmother, Bertha Rodriguez of Bay City; brothers and sisters-in-law, Abel and Tara Rodriguez, Ellis and Nancy Rodriguez, Ralph Rodriguez, Jr., Andrew and Melody Rodriguez, Jesse, Noah, and Christopher Rodriguez, all of Bay City; and sister, Patricia Sanchez of Houston.

 

Pallbearers were Robert Rodriguez, Randy Rodriguez, Sergio San Miguel, Jr., Steven San Miguel, Kenneth Garza, and Freddie Martinez.

 

Arrangements are with Taylor Bros. Funeral Home.

 

The Daily Tribune, March 16, 1999

 


Jesus Javier "Shorty" Rodriguez
(September 26, 1935 - October 30, 2015)

Jesus Javier "Shorty" Rodriguez, 80, went to be with the Lord on October 30, 2015 in Bay City Texas. He was born September 26, 1935 To Urbano & Aurelia Rodriguez.

He was a lifelong member of Our Lady of Guadalupe Church. He was a loving husband, Dad, and Grandfather and friend to all that knew him. He worked for Cole Plumbing for 53 years and in 2012 became owner of Cole Plumbing Heating & Cooling.

He was preceded in death by his parents and granddaughter Jasmine Rodriguez and brother Juan Homero Rodriguez. Survivors include his loving wife of 52 years Betsy S. Rodriguez, daughter Diana Barrera (Arthur), son Jesse Rodriguez (Mayra), son Urbano Rodriguez, and daughter Dora Rivera (Richard) and grandchildren: Xavier, Jacqueline, Jocelyn, Jasmine, Janelly Rodriguez, Arthur (AJ), Alyssa, and Adrian Barrera, Richee and Aimee Rivera.

Shorty enjoyed spending time with his family and being outside attending to his garden. Shorty always had a smile on his face, and will be remembered by his family for dressing up as Santa and having a BIG annual Easter egg hunt.

A rosary will be recited at 6:00 PM Tuesday, November 3, 2015 at the funeral home. Funeral Mass will be 10:00 AM Wednesday, November 4, 2015 at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church with Msgr. Gerry Cernoch officiating. Interment will follow at Cedarvale Cemetery. Pallbearers will be Jesse Rodriguez, Arthur Barrera, Urbano Rodriguez, Richard Rivera, A. J. Barrera and Xavier Rodriguez.

Taylor Bros. Funeral Home             Photo courtesy of Betty Crosby


 


Ralph R. Rodriguez
March 6, 1942 - June 7, 2015

Ralph R. Rodriguez, 73, of Bay City, Texas, passed away on Sunday, June 7, 2015.

Ralph was born March 6, 1942 in Freeport, Texas, to Arthur E. and Bertha Rodriguez. At a young age, he became a lifetime resident of Bay City.

Ralph was known for the love of music, dancing and was very talented in playing the piano in a band, where he was known as “Little Richard”. He worked for the City of Bay City, from where he retired. He worked for Matagorda County Teen Court for four years. He helped out lots of teens, and they loved him dearly. He was faithful to his job. He was certified in the Gospel Ministry in Freeport, Texas, in El Templo Christano Holiness Churches Inc., on September 13, 2000. He served the community, and to all the people that knew him, loved him for his kindness and loving heart. Ralph always had a great smile on his face, and he had a great laugh. He cared and loved his family with all his heart. His number one priority was to serve and love the Lord with all his heart, and he never stopped preaching the Word. We will miss him dearly.

Ralph is preceded in death by his parents; daughter, Christina Ann Rodriguez; and brother, Ruben Rodriguez.

He is survived by his sons, Ralph Jr., Christopher, Andrew, Jessie and Noe Rodriguez of Bay City, and Able Rodriguez of Galveston; daughter, Pat Rodriguez of Galveston; sisters, Bertha Morales (Able) of Freer, Texas, Carmen Chancey (Brian), Janie San Miguel (Sergio) and Rebecca Rodriguez of Bay City; brothers, Arthur Rodriguez (Delia) and Bobby Rodriguez (Sue) of Bay City; and numerous grandchildren, nieces and nephews, all of whom loved him very much.

The family will receive visitors from 2 p.m. to 8 p.m., Wednesday, June 10, 2015, at Taylor Bros. Funeral Home, Bay City, Texas.

Funeral services will be at 12 p.m., Thursday, June 11, 2015, at Turning Point Church, Bay City, Texas, with the Rev. Gordon Winfrey officiating.

Interment will follow at Cedarvale Cemetery, Bay City, Texas.

Pallbearers are Jessie Cordoba, Sergio San Miguel Jr., Kenneth Garza, Steven San Miguel, Victor Xavier Rodriguez and Nathan Rodriguez.

Honorary pallbearers are Sergio San Miguel Sr., Brian Chancey and Able Morales.

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

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

Bay City Tribune, June 10, 2015                Photo courtesy of Betty Crosby


 


Gertrude “Pete” Rooth

August 5, 1922 – August 30, 1999

 

Funeral services for Gertrude “Pete” Rooth, 77, of Bay City, will be held at 10:00 AM Thursday, September 2, 1999, at the First Presbyterian Church, with Rev. Sam Steele officiating. Interment will follow at Cedarvale Cemetery.

 

Mrs. Rooth died August 30, 1999, at Matagorda House in Bay City. She was born August 5, 1922, in Bay City, Texas, to Benjamin and Gertrude Eidlebach Harrison. Mrs. Rooth was a member of the First Presbyterian Church and a lifelong resident of Bay City.

 

She is survived by: her husband, Oscar L. Rooth of Bay City; daughter and son-in-law, Judy and Jack Salyer of Rockport, TX; son, Gary Rooth of Cancun, Mexico; sisters, Laura Lee Tillman of San Antonio and Marion Gerhold of Kansas City, MO; brother, Ralph Harrison of Orlando, FL; three grandchildren, Kelli Rooth of Bay City, Gary Rooth and wife Myla Ramsey Rooth of Bay City, and Robin Broussard of Rockport; three great-grandchildren, Courtney and Katelyn Kunz, both of Bay City, and Ashley Rooth of El Campo.

 

Pallbearers include Richard Rooth, Gary Rooth, Jr., Ty Boening, Randy Patton, Harry Norris, Jr., and Dallas May.

 

Arrangements are with Taylor Bros. Funeral Home.

 

The Daily Tribune, September 1, 1999                      Photo courtesy of Betty Crosby

 

 


Oscar Leonardo Rooth

June 07, 1921 – November 29, 1999

 

Funeral services for Oscar Leonardo Rooth, 78, of Bay City, will be 4:00 PM Thursday, December 2, 1999, at the First Presbyterian Church in Bay City, with the Rev. Sam Steele officiating. Interment will follow at Cedarvale Cemetery.

 

Mr. Rooth died November 29, 1999, at Gulf Coast Medical Center in Wharton, Texas. He was born June 07, 1921, in Matagorda County, Texas, to the late Eric Leonardo and Nancy Elizabeth Mullens Rooth.

 

Mr. Rooth was a member of the First Presbyterian Church, a life-long resident of Bay City and a rice farmer.

 

Survivors include: daughter and son-in-law, Judy and Jack Salyer of Rockport; son, Gary Rooth of Cancun, Mexico; sister, Lois Ruth Heath of Waller; three grandchildren, Kelli Rooth, Gary Rooth, Jr. and wife Myla Ramsey Rooth, all of Bay City, and Robin Michelle Broussard of Rockport; and three great-grandchildren, Courtney and Katelyn Kunz of Bay City and Ashley Rooth of El Campo.

 

He was preceded in death by: his wife, Gertrude E. Rooth on August 30, 1999; a sister, Helen Orchard; and by brothers, Adrian and Raymond Rooth.

 

Pallbearers will be: Richard Rooth, John L. Rooth, Bubba Simons, Dallas May, Grady Hollingsworth, and Harry Norris, Jr.

 

Arrangements are under the direction of Taylor Bros. Funeral Home.

 

The Daily Tribune, December 2, 1999

 


Joseph Timothy Ros

(March 29, 1971 - May 25, 2015)
 

SFC Joseph Timothy Ros of Ashwood, TX went to be with Our Lord in Heaven May 25, 2015.
 

He is survived by his loving wife Ashley and their children Garrett, Grayson, Gaven, and Aubrey. His mother Mittie Burditt, sister Regina Densmore, three nephews, and two nieces, not to mention the rest of his extended family whom he loved so dearly. He was preceded in death by his father Benny Joseph Ros.
 

Joe was a proud Aggie and proud member of the United States National Guard since April 1989. He never forgot where he came from and cherished being a Van Vleck Leopard. Joe bravely served our country in combat during his time in Iraq. But it was what he did when he came home that truly showed who he was. He used his combat experience as a tool that helped him speak to others about The Lord.
 

He loved helping others, as was shown when he began his work in schools. Some people knew him as Coach Ros, others as Principal Ros, but they all knew him as someone who was in their corner. Joe enjoyed fishing, hunting, and anything that involved having friends and family around. Joe enjoyed life! He left this world surrounded by friends and family, on a day when they were all having fun!
 

The family will receive visitors from 5_7pm Thursday, May 28, 2015 at Taylor Bros. Funeral Home. Funeral services will be held at 4:00pm Friday, May 29, 2015 at First Baptist Church in Bay City with Dr. Mike Zimmerman officiating. Interment will follow at Roselawn Memorial Park in Van Vleck. Pallbearers are Brent Taylor, Curt Kjergaard, SSG Nelson Zepeda, CW1 Joey Rodriguez, SFC Doug McCord, SSG Lupe Martinez, Buddy Kelly and Bob Templeton. Honorary pallbearers are Justus Densmore, Paxton Densmore, SGT Richard Mathis, Derek Tibbit, Cody Crouch, Terry Crouch, Dan Croatt and Scott Barr.
 

Taylor Bros. Funeral Home
 

Van Vleck man dies saving children

Undertow claims life of father of 4, National Guardsman
 

Although a crowd of good Samaritans did everything possible, they were unable to save the life of a man attempting to pull his children out of a riptide at Matagorda beach on Memorial Day.

 

Matagorda County Sheriff’s Office dispatch received a call at approximately 2:30 p.m. on Monday, May 25 in reference to multiple subjects in the water in distress at Matagorda Beach.

 

Matagorda County Sheriff’s Deputy Capt. Stephen Baker and Chief Robert Thompson were working beach patrol and responded to the call along with LCRA Ranger Kurtis Brown.

The tragic loss of husband and father Joe Ros, 44 of Van Vleck, happened suddenly and without  warning as onlookers watched in a panic.

Four children were in distress in the water being pulled by an undertow. As one of the children yelled for help, Ros and  Sandra Hogg immediately jumped into the water, swimming towards the children to make an attempt to save them.
 

Upon reaching the children, Ros and Hogg began to make the trek back to shore with them in tow.

 

Bay City Police Department Officer Armando Galvan and his brother Eddie Galvan aided in the rescue of the children.

 

Armando and Eddie proceeded into the water, took the children from Ros and Hogg, turned towards the beach and began to make their way to shore.

Once the children were safely back on shore the Galvan brothers, along with Lauren Rafter, quickly returned to the water in order to pull an unconscious Ros to shore.

Capt. Stephen Baker, LCRA Ranger Kurtis Brown and Texas Game Wardens Clay Shock, Trey Sparkman, and Tommy Johnson all aggressively and continuously performed CPR – Cardio Pulmonary Resuscitation on Ros until EMS arrived on scene.

Ros was transported to the Matagorda Regional Medical Center in Bay City where he was pronounced dead upon arrival.

Although there were several bystanders not listed on the original Matagorda County Sheriff’s Office press release, their assistance was greatly appreciated.

All the children involved in the incident were transported to the Medical Center and were listed in stable condition.

“We had so many incidents over the weekend and it was just a dangerous situation out at the beach all around,” said Matagorda County Sheriff’s Office Sgt. James R. Orr.

“The riptides and undertows were really bad this weekend, and it’s difficult to reach people out there when we don’t know exactly where they are on the beach.

 

“On May 24, we had another incident of near drowning when Deputy (Joshua) Summers received a call of subjects in the water unable to return to shore as well,” said Orr.

 

Ros was the director of Maintenance and Transportation for Van Vleck Independent School District, the former Principal of O. H. Herman Middle School, Assistant Principal at VVHS, an active Texas Army National Guardsman and an outstanding, extraordinary member of the community.

 

Van Vleck ISD released a statement on their Facebook page Tuesday saying VVISD classes will be dismissed at 12:30 p.m. Friday, May 29 to allow staff and students to attend Ros’ funeral. The funeral will be at 4 p.m. Friday at First Baptist Church in Bay City.

 

A fund for the family, the Joe Ros Memorial Fund, has been set up at Prosperity Bank.


Bay City Tribune, May 27, 2015

 

Joe Ros left his mark on hearts
By Casey Kile

 

Sometimes there are people that you meet in life and they pass t h r o u g h only leaving a little blip on your radar screen. Then there is that person… the person who leaves a seed so fertile in your soul that it does not matter where life takes you, they are there with you.  These are the types of people that leave things with you like character, integrity, sense of worth, pride, loyalty and service. When we get the honor to know someone like this, we do not realize their impact on our lives and we usually do not get the chance to thank them for the mark left on our hearts.

 

Our community lost one of these of people this week. Joe Ros was a man of honor, a man that served his community, a man that served his country and his family.

I first understood this man’s worth in 2007 when he was the assistant principal at Van Vleck High School. My brother was a senior in high school in 2007, and I knew several of his classmates well from coaching them in baseball. I would often hear stories of how this principal was always making sure they kept their noses clean and went above and beyond his duties to make sure they walked across the football field on graduation night.

 

You see, in a tight knit community like the one we live in, it does not take long for the effects you make on someone’s life to spread.

 

I got the chance to get to know this community pillar over the last few years, and I b egan to clearly understand this is a guy many people have been touched by and they don’t even know it.

 

One of the other perks of a close community is that word travels fast. It didn’t take long for news that Joe had drowned at Matagorda Beach on Monday to spread.

 

With just a quick swipe down your Facebook feed, you could see the impact it was making on the people he touched. Condolences were shared, former students and players shared the life lessons he handed down, such as character, integrity, sense of worth, pride, loyalty and service.

 

Driving home from the beach where I learned of the events that took this great man from us too soon, after my heart sank for his family and loved ones, I began to think, what am I doing to make an impact on the lives around me? I don’t know. One thing I do know is I want to be like Joe, I want to keep a smile on my face and leave a lasting impression on the people I can, I want to leave a legacy.

 

Rest easy, Joe. Words haven’t been invented yet to describe the legacy you have left in the hearts of the lives you touched.

 

Bay City Tribune, May 27, 2015                         Courtesy of Faye Cunningham

 

 


Raquel Balli Rosas

December 7, 1941 - September 24, 2015

Raquel Balli Rosas, 73, of Bay City, Texas, passed away September 24, 2015, in McAllen, Texas.

She was born December 7, 1941, in Weslaco, Texas, to the late Francisco Balli and Benita Anzaldua Balli.

Survivors include her daughters, Rhesa Perez, Barbara Ramirez, Malinda Quintanilla and Linda Ramirez; sons, Serveriano Ramirez Jr. and Bobby Ramirez; sisters, Rebecca Balli, Lydia Torres, Ruth Balli and Carman Madrigla; brothers, Ruben Balli, Frank Balli, Richardo Balli and Isreal Balli; 20 grandchildren; and 51 great-grandchildren.

The family will receive friends and relatives from 5 p.m. until 7 p.m., Monday, September 28, 2015, at the Taylor Bros. Funeral Home in Bay City, Texas.

Funeral services will be held at 10 a.m., Tuesday, September 29, 2015, at Taylor Bros. Funeral Home, with the Rev. Chester Sassman officiating.

Interment will follow at Cedarvale Cemetery, Bay City, Texas

Pallbearers will be Severiano Medina, Joe Angel Gonzales, Adam Gonzales, Joe Luis Ramirez, Juan Ramirez, Donald Torres, Daniel Hernandez and Martin Alvarado.

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

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

Bay City Tribune, September 30, 2015                Photo courtesy of Heather Serrill Janise


 


Arthur Ross Jr.

April 10, 1947 - August 22, 2015

Funeral services for Arthur Ross Jr., will be Saturday, August 22, 2015, 11 a.m., at Golden Avenue Baptist Church, Bay City, Texas, with the Rev. Byron Gaskin, pastor and the Rev. K. W. Bree Sr. eulogizing.

On April 10, 1947, a baby boy was born to Arthur Ross Sr. and Emeolia Ross in Bay City, Texas, whom they named Arthur Ross Jr.

Arthur accepted Christ at an early age, at Enterprise Baptist Church, under the leadership of the Rev. A. H. Pointer.

He attended public school in Bay City, Texas and graduated from Hilliard High School. After graduation, he enlisted in the United States Army, where he served for twenty years and worked his way up to Master Sergeant. After retiring from his beloved Army, he signed on as a Training Specialist for the Department of Defense. Although Arthur traveled the world and made his home in Washington, D.C., his heart never left Texas. (Texas football, that is!) He was a true die-hard, Dallas Cowboys fan, and if you called his home and his answer machine picked up, you would hear him say, “You have reached the Dallas Cowboys’ headquarters.”

On Saturday, August 8, 2015, Arthur Ross Jr. answered the call from his heavenly Father.

He is survived by his three children, Arthur Ross III of Fort Bragg, North Carolina; two daughters, LaFunja Polk (Herbert) of Bay City, Texas, and Angela Fletcher of Palacios, Texas; two brothers, James D. Ross of Killeen, Texas and the Rev. George A. Ross (Mavis) of Angleton, Texas; one sister, Mildred Faye Williams (Pastor James); six grandchildren, Dominique, Brittany, Bryson, Hillary, Janel, and Tiffany; six great-grandchildren, Bryleii, Peyton, Braydon, Kalia, Jazmine, and Jaceyon; one aunt, Lillie Miller of Galveston, Texas; special friends, Evelyn Jones of Washington D.C., James Bolden (J.R.) of Washington, D.C.; and a host of nephews, nieces, relatives and dear friends from Texas, D.C, and Germany.

Arthur was preceded in death by his wife, Carolyn Ross; his parents, Arthur and Emeolia Ross Sr.; sister, Rhonda Scott; and brother, David Ross.

Final arrangements are entrusted with Green’s Mortuary, Bay City, Texas. 979-245-3489.

Bay City Tribune, August 19, 2015
 


Noelie Roy

November 1, 1999

 

A Mass of Christian Burial for Noelie Roy, 82, of Port Acres, Texas, will be 1:00 PM Wednesday, November 3, 1999, at Holy Cross Catholic Church in Bay City. Burial will follow at Cedarvale Cemetery in Bay City. A Rosary will be recited at 7:30 PM Tuesday at the Mortuary.

 

Mrs. Roy died on Monday, November 1, 1999, at Christus St. Mary Hospital in Port Arthur, Texas. She was a native of Leonville, LA and lived 30 years in Bay City before moving to Port Acres 20 years ago. She was a homemaker and a member of Little Flower of Jesus Catholic Church in Port Acres.

 

She is survived by: her husband, Joseph W. Roy of Port Acres; daughter, Lois A Jurek of Bay City; son, Jimmy Sonnier of Port Alto; sisters, Margie Templet and Odile Coulotta, both of Metairie, LA, Georgie Wilson of Opelousas, LA and Regina Moran of Bunkie, LA; brothers, Leroy and Nolan Stoute, both of Metairie, LA; eight grandchildren and six great grandchildren.

 

Arrangements are with Broussard’s Mortuary in Nederland.

 

The Daily Tribune, November 3, 1999

 


Geoffrey Ruddick

 Geoffrey Ruddick, of Bay City, TX, passed away May 7, 2015.

There will be a memorial service at 1 p.m. at Apostolic Pentecostal Church, 7th St. Bay City, TX on May 16, 2015 with the Rev. Kevin Blake and Dr. M. J. Moore officiating.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to www.youcaring.com/search/go?w= geoffrey+ruddick%2c+sr

Bay City Tribune, May 13, 2015
 


Ethel Mae Tippens Rugeley

December 1, 1999

 

Graveside services for Ethel Mae Tippens Rugeley, 87, of Houston, was to be at 1:00 PM Saturday, December 4, 1999, at Cedarvale Cemetery.

 

Mrs. Rugeley went to be with the Lord on Wednesday, December 1, 1999.

 

Mrs. Rugeley is survived by: Dr. and Mrs. Henry Moore of Seguin, Michael Moore and family of Houston, Houston Moore and family of Seguin, Amanda Moore, Mrs. Cordelia Inks of Channelview, Robert Inks of Channelview, Walcott Inks of Ohio, Mrs. John Rakestraw of Bay City, Rev. and Mrs. Billy F. Norton of Houston, Richard Norton and wife of Houston, Mr. and Mrs. J. D. Sutherland of Wadsworth, Mr. Greg Sutherland and family of Wadsworth, Mrs. Pat Evans and family of Carrollton, Mrs. Linda Houston and family of Benbrook, Texas, and Dr. and Mrs. John Q. Rounsaville of DeSoto, Texas.

 

Mrs. Rugeley was widowed by Walcott Rugeley.

 

Arrangements were with Heights Funeral Home of Houston.

 

The Daily Tribune, December 5, 1999

Sargent Wolcott Rugeley

Sargent Wolcott Rugeley, 65, a resident of Channelview and formerly of Bay City, passed away in a Houston hospital October 9. Survivors include: wife, Mrs. Ethel Rugeley of Channelview; 2 daughters, Mrs. Cordilia Inks of Boone, North Carolina and Mrs. Henry Moore of Seguin; 1 sister, Mrs. J. A. Rakestraw of Bay City; 6 grandchildren; and a number of nieces and nephews. Funeral services will be held Wednesday, October 11 at 10 a. m. at the Howard-Glendale Funeral Chapel at 1015 Federal Road in Houston. Father Aubrey Maxted will officiate at the service. Graveside services will be held 1 p. m. Wednesday at Cedarvale Cemetery in Bay City. Local arrangements under the direction of Dick R. Elkins, Bay City Funeral Home.

Daily Tribune, October 10 or 11, 1972
 


L. C. "Red" Rush

(February 13, 1927 - September 13, 2015)

L.C. Rush was born February 13, 1927 in Markham, Texas, the youngest child of Sally and Eugene Rush. He also spent several summers in Port Aransas, Texas and had many fond memories of his time there. He was a World War II veteran, worked for Sun oil company and he and his wife Irene also owned and operated Rush's Café and Motel.

L.C. or "Red" as he was known to his boyhood, oilfield and Army friends, lived his entire life in Markham Texas. The youngest and smallest of six Rush boys, L.C. and his mother Sally faced tremendous challenges during the Great Depression, where finding three meals a day was often a challenge. He often spoke of those days, and dinners of greens, corn bread and sweet milk on a routine basis, not with regret, but as one more challenge he had faced, and had overcome. He was a Christian in the most important sense of the word. He prayed every day of his life, leaned on God for strength, and instilled this faith in his four children.

L.C. enlisted in the Army back when checks of actual qualifications, including age, were not as closely monitored as they are in the current Army. Despite his small size, he thrived as a Soldier. He served with honor in the Pacific Theater as an Infantryman. His brother, Corporal Carl Rush, was serving with the1-31st Infantry Regiment in the Philippines when the Japanese attacked Pearl Harbor. Carl fought during the defense of the Philippines, survived the Bataan Death March, but later died in a Japanese prison camp. L.C. was able to visit Carl's gravesite after the Allies recaptured the Philippines.

Following the war, L.C. worked in the Texas oilfield. His drive and physical toughness enabled him to endure blistering summers and freezing winter rain as a roughneck. He was proud of his ability throw a spinning chain, joking that he was so skilled that he could "throw it out of his hip pocket" and worked that position until graduating to "derrick hand" working a 100 feet plus in the air, where the margin for mistakes is zero. In time he left the drilling rigs and worked for many years for Sun Oil Company as a roustabout, in small gas plant operations, and other positions.

During this period, while working full time for Sun Oil, L.C. and Irene operated a café and later a café and motel for many years in Markham. Also during this period he built more than one house with his bare hands, from the foundation to the roof, accomplishing all associated tasks, with no real training. You see L.C. was not only able to overcome great physical challenges as the "runt" of his family (some of his brothers were over six feet tall) but he was extremely intelligent and skilled with his hands. He could do home construction, wire a house, repair a car, fix a Cub Cadet lawnmower that had not run in five years, and a plethora of other tasks. He never said, "This is just too hard", he just did it, working as long as it took to complete the task. He was also a great thinker and had several patents for inventions. He did all of this with a sixth grade education. If he had been able to attend college, there is no telling what else he might have been able to accomplish.

This lack of a degree or formal training never slowed him down, or made him doubt whether or not he could accomplish some difficult task, he just knew he could do it. If, however, you were to ask him what was his and Irene's greatest accomplishment, he would say his children. He and Irene struggled financially and went without many of the things the current generation consider necessities, in order to send all of them to college. His oldest daughter Brenda was a gifted teacher and is currently a successful realtor. His son Topper, though often a tremendous challenge to keep on task, pursued a career in the Army, serving as an Infantryman, like his Dad. His son Dennis went on to fill a key position at the Celanese plant in Bay City. His son Darryl is a successful song writer, singer and recording artist and also works in chemical sales. L.C. and Irene devoted all their spare time to their children, encouraging them, developing them, helping them, even years after they should have been standing on their own two feet.

L.C. was honest to a fault, and had a heart as big as Texas. Following a storm in Markham, he agreed to complete extensive repairs to a church in town. L.C. worked for days repairing this church. When the church deacons paid him, he put the check in the church offering plate and never said a word. This kind of goodness influences others greatly, including one’s own children.

After his retirement he and Irene enjoyed going to garage sales and had a booth at the Canton, Texas flea market for 25 years. We really don't know what heaven looks like, but for L.C. and Irene--who joined our Lord before L.C., it probably has a special place that looks a lot like Canton, with rows of garage sale treasures.

L.C. was preceded in death by his parents, wife Irene, Sister Jenny Condra, brothers Eugene, Carl, Milton, Joe, and Louis, as well as grandson Bradly Rush Damron and great granddaughter Kelly Casteel.

He is survived by his daughter Brenda and husband Bill Damron, sons Colonel Topper Rush and his wife Patricia, Dennis and his wife Marianne, Darryl and his wife Karen, grandchildren Dawn Rush Germany, Brooke Damron Casteel, Blake Damron, Captain David Rush, Daniel Rush, Nathan Rush, Catherine Rush, Justin Rush, Jarrett Rush, Caroline Rush and Lily Rush. Also by five great grandchildren and numerous nieces, nephews, and family friends.

His family and friends rejoice in the great life he lived, his Christian example, iron will to accomplish challenging tasks in great adversity, and selfless love for his children and friends.

Services will be held on Thursday, 17 September. Visitation will be at 9 AM and the service at 10 AM at First Baptist Church in Markham. He will be buried next to Irene in Hawley Cemetery. Pallbearers will be Joe Johnson, David Rush, Blake Damron, Daniel Rush, Nathan Rush, Justin Rush, Jarrett Rush and Jordan Bailey.

The family requests donations be made in his honor to the First Baptist Church of Markham where he was a loyal member for over 70 years.

Taylor Bros. Funeral Home                                     Photo courtesy of Heather Serrill Janise

Irene Lois Uherek Rush
March 3, 1932 – Aug. 21, 2012

Irene Lois Uherek Rush, beloved wife, mother, sister, aunt and grandmother extraordinaire; passed away in the early hours of August 21, 2012, following a battle with cancer.

She was a devout Christian and her family rejoices in the fact she has gone to be with our Lord. Irene was born in Damon, Texas on March 3, 1932, and was the eighth of eleven children of Caroline and Louis Uherek. She attended school in West Columbia.

Growing up in a large family she was instilled with great love of family and an unsurpassed work ethic. She was married to L.C. Rush of Markham on April 2, 1949, and lived most of her adult life in Markham where she was very active in the First Baptist Church. She and L.C. raised four children. She was best known for the Christian love she showed to her family and friends, her total selflessness and willingness to help others in need. She was a renowned cook and worked for many years in various restaurants and cafeterias including Rush’s Cafe and the Celanese Cafeteria.

She is survived by: her husband, L.C. Rush; and children, Brenda Rush Damron and her husband Bill Damron, Colonel L.C. “Topper” Rush and his wife Patricia, Dennis Rush and his wife Marianne and Darryl Rush and his wife Karin.

Surviving grandchildren include: Dawn Rush Germany, Brooke Castell, First Lieutenant David Rush, Blake Damron, Daniel Rush, Nathan Rush, Catherine Rush, Justin Rush, Jarret Rush, Caroline Rush and Lily Rush.

Surviving great-grand children include: Grace, Ada, Elias and Jack Germany and Madison Rush.

Surviving sisters include Janet Woodard and Evelyn Stockton and brothers, Raymond Uherek and Fred Uherek.

She was preceded in death by: her parents, Caroline Andras Uherek and Louis Uherek; brothers, Henry, Adolf and Ludwig; sisters, Lydia, Wilsie and Rose; and grandchild, Bradley Rush Damron.

The family will receive visitors from 5 until 7 p.m. Wednesday, August 22, 2012, at the funeral home.

The funeral service will be held at 10 a.m. Thursday, August 23, 2012, at the First Baptist Church of Markham with the Rev. Damon Rambo and Rev. Louis Rush officiating.

Interment will follow at Hawley Cemetery in Blessing.

Pallbearers will be: David, Daniel, Nathan, Justin, and Jarret Rush, Blake Damron, and Jordan Bailey.

Donations may be made to the First Baptist Church of Markham, P. O. Box 33, Markham, TX 77456.

The family wishes to express their heart felt thanks to Dr. Neret and the Bay Villa Healthcare Center.

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, Wednesday, August 22, 2012
 


Albert Ryman, 83, Dies in Arkansas

Albert Ryman, 83, of Batesville, Ark., passed away in a hospital in Little Rock February 2.

Funeral services will be conducted at Taylor Brothers Funeral Home, Saturday morning, Feb. 7, at 10 o’clock, with the Rev. R. O. Finher officiating. Interment will be in Cedarvale Cemetery.

Mr. Ryman, a former resident of Bay City, is survived by his wife, Mrs. Albert Ryman of Batesville; four daughters, Mrs. Paul LeCompte, Bay City, Mrs. Leola Head, Houston, Mrs. Lucille Cobel, Corpus Christi and Miss Bertha Schuetze, Houston; three sisters, Mrs. Minnie Broussard, Matagorda, Mrs. Tom Harris, Bay City and Mrs. Katy Butter, Wadsworth. Also surviving are nine brothers: Henry of Dickerson; Nolan of Muldoon; Alvin, Port Arthur; Thomas, Sam, Beny, Fred, Jesse and Clyde Ryman all of Wadsworth.

Matagorda County Tribune, February 12, 1959
 

 

Copyright 2013- Present by Carol Sue Gibbs
All rights reserved

Created
Mar. 29, 2013
Updated
Apr. 12, 2014
 

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