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Next reunion date: September 13, 2025, Cotton Patch, Temple, TX
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Saturday, September 14, 2024 -- Reunion:
Following is a report written by Joan Kurtz regarding the 2024 Reunion:
FmHA/RD/FSA 2024 Reunion Results of September 14,2024 meeting in Temple, TX.
Attendance: Sixteen former employees, spouses/family members.
Reunion Income: Due to the sizeable balance in the Flower Fund account, registration fees were returned and no donations were solicited.
Reunion Expenses: $52 was spent on envelopes and postage for reunion notices sent to those without email addresses. Out of 53 sent, 13 of the notices were returned by the post office as "not deliverable - unable to forward".
Business Meeting: The Flower Fund was discussed. A motion was made and seconded to discontinue the fund and divide the money between worthy organizations. A vote was taken, and by a narrow margin, the group decided to close out the Flower Fund, and send one-time donations to the American Heart Association, American Cancer Society, State of Texas Kidney Foundation, Alzheimer's Texas, and the Salvation Army. It is planned to have the checks written and the account closed by October 5 (date of next bank statement) or soon thereafter. There is one memorial check outstanding that should be on the October 5 statement.)
2025 Reunion: The attendees agreed to continue having the annual reunion, and selected September 15, 2025 as the date. LaVerne Cocke and Deborah Wright will be contacts for the reunion.
FmHA Newsletter: Donna Freytag and LaVerne Cocke will continue to be contacts for the newsletter and receive notices of address changes and obituary notices.
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Joan Kurtz received bank book and Reunion records from Mrs. Charles Hart on 7-30-24.
Flower Fund Balance 7-5-24 - $5,147.50 }
9-5-24 - 4,999.87 } $147.63 for four memorials/flowers
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Funeral services for Jean Dowdy, 92 of Lexington, Texas, are scheduled for 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday, October 23, 2024 at St. James Lutheran Church in Lexington with Rev. Jonathan Meyer and Rev. Bernard Schey officiating. Burial will follow in the Lexington Cemetery. Visitation will be held on Tuesday, October 22, 2024 from 9:00 a.m. until 8:00 p.m. and on Wednesday, October 23, 2024 from 7:00 a.m. until 8:00 a.m. at Phillips and Luckey Funeral Home in Giddings. The family will be present for visitation Tuesday evening from 5:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m.
Jean Ellen Hartfield was born August 17, 1932 to Adele (Hellman) and Albert Hartfiel. She was the middle child of 5 with 3 brothers and 1 sister. She was born at home in Lexington, Texas. Jean was baptized on August 28, 1932 and confirmed on July 29, 1945 at St. James Lutheran Church in Lexington. Her confirmation verse was Psalm 27:1, “The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? The Lord is the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?” She grew up on the family farm with chickens, livestock and lots of vegetables from the garden. There was not much money, but plenty of family time spent playing games like marbles and dominos. Jean graduated from Lexington High School in 1949. Although her mother stayed home to raise the children, she was an RN and Jean decided to follow in her footsteps and attend nursing school. During this time, she met and married William H Dowdy, Jr. “Bal” on August 29, 1949, in Brenham, Texas.
Jean and Bal lived in Lexington, Texas throughout their 66 years of marriage and raised three children who blessed them with 8 grandchildren and 18 great grandchildren. She was affectionately known by her grandchildren, nieces and nephews as well as many others as Jean Jean.
Jean started her nursing career in Lexington working for Dr. Korkmas and then continued on working first in Giddings and then in Austin for Dr. Hazard and Dr. Vickers until she retired in 1988. Upon retiring from nursing she opened the Dowdy House, a beloved Lexington institution located in downtown featuring antiques, collectibles and gifts that was featured in Bluebonnet Electric Cooperative Magazine. She was a lifelong member of St James Lutheran Church. Jean was a charter member of the Lexington Rotary Club and served on the Lexington ISD School Board.
Jean loved to travel and took many cruises with family and friends, but her favorite destination was a certain slot machine in Louisiana. She felt she had reached her pinnacle on her last trip there when she finally hit the jackpot.
Jean passed away the evening of Sunday, October 20, 2024, surrounded by her family, at her home in Lexington.
Jean was preceded in death by her parents, Albert and Adele Hartfiel, her husband, William H Dowdy, Jr., her brothers Melvin Hartfield, Werner Hartfield, Elton Hartfield and her sister Artis Poston.
She is survived by her three children, Arlene Wiederhold and her husband Lee Roy of Dime Box, Mickey Milburn and her husband, Donnie of Lexington and their grandson Joseph, and William Dowdy and his wife Kim of Lexington, eight grandchildren, Trey Wiederhold and his wife Dora and their children Beatrice and Elizabeth, Amber Inberg and her partner Chris Behan and her daughter Olivia; Amanda Foley and her husband Daniel and their children Sadie, Molly and Clara Jean, Will Wiederhold and his wife Annie and their children Wyatt, Beckham and Caroline; Michael Milburn and his wife Stephanie and their children Jake, Preslie and Ben; Jonathan Milburn and his wife Tammy and their children Landry, Langston and Loxley; Kayla Stanley and her husband Wes and their children Meadow and Harper and Sterling Dowdy and his husband Michael Mills along with numerous nieces and nephews and her beloved dog, Strawberry. Serving as pallbearers will be Trey Wiederhold, Michael Milburn, Jonathan Milburn, Will Wiederhold, Sterling Dowdy and Wes Stanley. Honorary pallbearer will be Daniel Foley.
Memorials may be made to the Lexington Rotary Club or the charity of one’s choice.
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Margie Kaye Gleaton, age 73, passed away September 4, 2024, in Hamilton, Texas after a long illness. She is survived by her husband John Gleaton of Comanche, Texas, her son Kevin Cude of Hamilton, Texas, Marcus Gleaton of Brock, Elizabeth Gleaton of Weatherford, Texas, and her sisters Barbara Greene of Wagoner, Oklahoma and Millie Cook of Fort Gibson, Oklahoma. She is preceded in death by her parents, Carl and Barbara Pollard and her sister Frances Sommerfeld.
Margie was born September 5, 1950, in Salina, Oklahoma and upon graduation from high school she held a successful career with Farmers Home administration which took her traveling and living across Texas. She ultimately became the state director for the Rural Development Administration in Texas and finally settled in Comanche, where she lived and retired with her husband John.
Margie was always an active community member and was for many years the President of Comanche County Medical Center auxiliary. She enjoyed playing golf with family and friends at PAR Country Club and sitting with John on their back porch watching the golfers play through. She loved to host her grandkids for the annual weeklong Golf camp and watch them compete in high school sporting events. She was an avid supporter of TCU football and enjoyed attending many games with family and friends.
She was a wonderful mother-in-law to Wendy and Shannon and beloved "Hashie" to all her grandkids and great grandkids. She will be sadly missed by Elliot, Rebecca, Piper, and Beauden of Hutto, Texas, Mitchell, Ellie, Oliver and Robbie Lynn of Hamilton, Texas, Madison Cude of Peoria Illinois, Chloe Cude of Hamilton, Texas, and Jaxon, Josh, and Jillian Gleaton of Brock, Texas. She was a great aunt and friend to her nieces Chelle McCorkell, husband Tim, Carlye, Tymani, Skye and Cole of Wagoner, Oklahoma, Tawnda, Clif, Christian and Ashtyn Warford of Ketchum, Oklahoma, and nephew Brett, Carrie and Stephanie Greene of Wagoner, Oklahoma.
She was a wonderful mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend and will be greatly missed.
A memorial service celebrating Margie's life will be held at Comanche Funeral Home in Comanche, Texas on September 21, 2024 @ 10:30am.
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Rena Mae Davis, of Crockett, Texas, was born in Hobart, Oklahoma on the 4th day of May 1938 to parents Orval “Buck” Roscoe Marler and Emily Gertrude Dodgion Marler. On Saturday evening, the 18th day of November 2023, she left the loving arms of her family into the eternal arms of Jesus, at the age of 85.
Born and raised in a small town, Mrs. Davis grew up with a strong sense of community and love for her family. She worked for over thirty years for the Rural Housing Development, before retiring, and beginning a second career at the Houston County Extension Office, where she was respected and admired by her colleagues for her intelligence and dedication. Her contributions to the community extended beyond work, as she was an active member of Calvary Baptist Church. Her faith was a significant part of her life, and she served her church with devotion before her health declined. Her strength was an inspiration to all who knew her, and her kindness and generosity were a testament to her faith.
Mrs. Davis was a passionate home cook who loved to gather her family around the dinner table. Her recipes were cherished by her family and friends, and her kitchen was always filled with laughter and love. She was the heart of her family, and her home was a place of joy and warmth.
Mrs. Davis was also known for her wit and humor. She had a knack for making people laugh and her presence always lit up the room. She was a smart woman who was always up for a good game of poker or a scratch-off ticket. Her annual "Ma's Christmas Party" was a highlight of the year, where she would gather her family for a day filled with joy, laughter, games, and her delicious cooking. These moments of togetherness were a testament to the love and warmth that she brought into the lives of her family members.
More than anything else, Mrs. Davis loved her family deeply, especially her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She was a loving wife, a caring mother, a doting grandmother, and a loyal friend who put others before herself. Her love for her family was boundless, and she expressed it in countless ways, both big and small, whether it was always there to lend an ear, a hand, or a word of advice. Her family was her greatest joy, and she was their guiding light.
In remembering Mrs. Davis, we celebrate a life well-lived. Her spirit, her laughter, and her love will live on in the hearts of those who loved her. As we mourn her loss, we also celebrate her life and the many ways she touched our lives.
Mrs. Davis joins in heaven her parents Buck and Gertie Marler; husband, Max Davis; infant daughter, Barbara June Evans; daughter, Donna Marie Curry; grandson, Christopher Hill; brother, Kenneth Marler; and her sister, Patsy Marshall.
Mrs. Rena Mae Davis will be deeply missed, but her memory will forever be a source of joy and inspiration for all who knew her. “Ma” as she was lovingly known by her family, is survived by her daughters, Regena Rhone, Karla Evans, and Lea Ann Holmes and husband Michael Wayne Holmes; son, Eddie Evans; son-in-law, Richard Curry; brothers, Ray Marler and wife Sandy, and Danny Marler and wife Linda. She will also live in the hearts of her nine grandchildren; twelve great-grandchildren with one on-the-way; and her family she was blessed with when she married Max, Annette Wood and family, Beverly Jewel and family, Donna Davis, and Kevin Davis and family. Mrs. Davis is also survived by numerous nieces, nephews, other family members and many friends.
A funeral service to celebrate the life of Rena Davis is to be conducted at eleven o’clock in the morning, on Wednesday, the 22nd day of November 2023 in the Rhone Memorial Chapel with Bro. Reggie Gregory officiating the service. Interment will follow in Evergreen Memorial Park in Crockett, Texas.
Friends are invited to visit with the family one hour prior to the start of the service at Rhone Funeral Home.
Those honored to serve as pallbearers are Ben Rhone, John Shveyda, Tyler Shveyda, Weston Evans, Russell Holmes, Cannon Earp, Patrick Haynes and Fernando Arvizu. Honorary pallbearers include Jaden Hill, Cannan Haynes, Jerrett Haynes, and Brandon Enos.
The family would like to express their appreciation to China Cobb and Oletha Murray for the exceptional loving care they provided Mrs. Davis. For those desiring, memorial contributions may be given to the Calvary Baptist Church, 210 S. 8th Street, Crockett, Texas 75835.
Funeral services for Rena Mae Davis are in care of Rhone Funeral Home, 3900 S. State Highway 19, Palestine, Texas.
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Charles Benjamin Hart, died unexpectedly yesterday at his home. He was born on June 21,1935 and just celebrated his 89th birthday and Father’s day with his family.
Charles was an Eagle Scout, graduated from Lamar High School in Houston, received a Bachelor’s degree from the University of Houston and a Masters degree from American University in Washington, DC. He served proudly in the US Army 1958-1962. He was a Master Mason, a member of Scottish Rite and a 50 year member of the Karem Shrine in Waco, TX.
For many years, Charles was a board member of the Texas A&M University Hillel Foundation and was President of the Texas Jewish Historical Society. He retired in 1994 from the US Department of Agriculture, Farmers Home Administration, as a loan specialist. After retiring, he and his wife spent several years traveling across the US and Canada in their motorhome. Chuck spent over 20 years after retirement teaching horseback riding at his beloved Echo Hill Ranch and at Greene Family Camp. He had a lifelong love of the outdoors, nature and animals and enjoyed raising cattle and taking care of retired ranch horses.
Survivors include his wife of 63 years, Jan Siegel Hart, daughters Debbie Hart, Kathy Hart, and son, David Hart and his wife Karen, six grandchildren, and sister-in-law Pam Joffre and her husband Joe. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the American Heart Association, Texas Jewish Historical Society, Texas A&M Hillel Foundation or the charity of your choice.
Johnye Kate Fleming Conner, age 87, of Bangs, passed away peacefully on Sunday, April 7, 2024.
Johnye Kate, the fifth of six children, was born on December 29th, 1936, in Pioneer, to Callie and Mabel Fleming. She attended school at Williams and graduated from May High School. Johnye married her sweetheart and love of her life, Jimmy Conner, on June 5th, 1955 at Pleasant Valley Church in Williams. The couple was blessed with three fun but rowdy boys, Ray, Randy and Russell Conner. Johnye worked early in their marriage at Dyess Air Force Base. Later she ran the family cleaners in Stanton, Texas. Johnye completed her career, retiring after eighteen years of service, as a loan officer for Farmers Home Administration. She also served as a pianist for many years at the First United Methodist Church in Stanton and Plains.
After the birth of her first grandchild, Johnye affectionately became known as "Meme". As Meme, she shared her many talents, teaching her grandbabies to paint landscapes, knit, crochet and make wooden crafts. Family members were blessed by the many beautiful quilts, baby blankets, and handmade gifts throughout the years. It was like she out did herself with each new design. When Johnye was not busy with her many activities, she loved planning family reunions. She was in charge of pictures and family photo albums that the families still enjoy to this day.
Johnye is survived by her brother, Sam Fleming (Eva) of Cross Plains; sister Pat Allen (Bo) of May; three sons, Ray Conner (Brenda) of Bangs, Randy Conner of Bokchito, Oklahoma, Russell Conner of Bangs; Grandchildren, Calley Conner (Megan), Toby Conner (Shana), Ryan Conner (Kelly), Lana Bagley (Scotty), April Ward (Justin), Jayson Conner (Lindsey), D'Ann Dedeke (Taylor); 18 great-grandchildren, as well as many nieces and nephews. Johyne was proceeded in death by her husband of 68 years, Jimmy Conner, her brothers Buster Fleming and Skeeter Fleming, and her sister Lavern Hood.
Linda Sultenfuss of Academy passed away May 29th, 2024 at the age of 70.
Linda was born on April 27, 1954 to Emmit and Gladys Wolz of Deanville, Texas. She attended Deanville School 1st through 8th grade and graduated Caldwell High School in 1972. She started her 36 years of employment with Rural Development (formerly Farmers Home Administration) USDA in January 1973 in Bryan, Texas. She transferred to the Texas State Office in Temple where she worked until her retirement in 2009. She was a member of St. Matthew Catholic Church in Rogers and was a member of the Ladies Society.
Linda is preceded in death by her beloved daughter Emily Lynn Sultenfuss, her parents Emmitt and Gladys Wolz, brother Donnie Kenneth Wolz and her nephew Thomas Calvin Wolz.
Linda is survived by her husband, Patrick T. Sultenfuss Sr.; son, Cody Sultenfuss, Rob Leach; grandsons, Fritz Bryant and Finn Caspar; stepsons, Patrick Sultenfuss Jr. and wife Cindy and Matthew Sultenfuss; stepdaughter, Shannon Sultenfuss; grandchildren, Ashli DeFraties and husband Kyle, Samantha Sawyer and husband Blake, Morgan Shine and husband David, Justin Sultenfuss, Amanda Sultenfuss, Jude Sultenfuss and David Sultenfuss; and two great grandchildren, Cedric DeFraties and Sarah Beth Sawyer; brothers, Emmitt Wolz and wife Jane of Caldwell, Fritz Wolz of Caldwell and David Wolz and wife Rhonda of Caldwell; and sister, Dorothea Matcek and husband Jerry of Bryan, as well as eight nieces, three nephews, and numerous great nephews and nieces.
Visitation will be at Scanio-Harper Funeral Home in Temple from 5-7:00pm Thursday June 6, 2024 with Rosary following at 7:00pm. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 2:00pm Friday, June 7, 2024 at St. Matthew Catholic Church in Rogers. Burial will follow at Reeds Lake Cemetery. A celebration of life will be held at the St. Matthew Parish Hall following burial.
Memorial donations may be made to St. Matthew Catholic Church Building Fund.
Lee was born August 27, 1954 in Abilene, Texas to Curtis and Frances (Carothers) Reed. He grew up in Uvalde and San Antonio, graduating from Winston Churchill High School in 1972 and was on their baseball team. He returned to Abilene to attend Hardin-Simmons University. Lee graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in Criminal Justice and Political Theory in 1976. He was working on his master’s degree in criminal justice at HSU at the time of his death.
Lee always had a caring heart for children from his time as director of the Wagley Unit of the Abilene Boy’s and Girl’s Club while pursuing his undergraduate degree. After graduating, Lee joined the Abilene Police Department. He spent one year on patrol and was then promoted to the Youth Division and Missing Persons Unit. He would spend his entire career in that division doing what he loved.
While in the Division, Lee saw a need for legislative action dealing with missing persons and unidentified individuals. He, along with then Lt. Melvin Martin, authored and were able to get the Texas State Legislature to pass and fund the Texas Missing Persons and Missing Children’s Act. This act formed the Texas Missing Persons Clearinghouse within the Texas Department of Public Safety and provided the legal definition of a missing person or child. In the following years, Lee authored several state legislative acts that were passed into law, including the Interference with Child Custody.
Lee was involved with the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children since their inception in 1984. Anyone who met Lee would know of his passion for the National Center within five minutes. He was one of their first outside instructors. He co-authored several publications for them including The Endangered Runaway, Infant Abductions, Long-Term Missing and The Investigator’s Guide to Missing Children Cases. He continued his work with the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children by being a part of Team Adam as a consultant. Lee became an expert in the field of searching landfills for missing persons. He was an instructor for the Institute of Criminal Justice Studies, Texas State University for over 20 years. Lee was a member of NecroSearch International. He served on several boards of directors for non-profit organizations in Abilene. He will be remembered for caring for all the children and working tirelessly to improve their quality of life.
Lee was proceeded in death by his parents. He is survived by his wife of 42 years Cheryl (Craig) Reed, daughter Lindsay Reed (Javier Gutierrez) of San Antonio, brother and sister-in-law, Scott and Creta Reed of Allen, nephew Kyle Reed (Amanda Reed) of McKinney, uncle and aunt Bob and Jenny Carothers, and numerous cousins.
A graveside service will be 2:00 PM on Friday, May 24, 2024 at Elmwood Memorial Park, 5750 Hwy 277 South, Abilene, Texas.
Lee lived and believed: “You may strive to walk with Kings but kneel to help a child.”
Bennie Davis, a beloved husband, father, and friend, passed away at 87 on March 13, 2024 in Georgetown, Texas.
Bennie grew up in Andice, Texas, graduated from Southwest Texas State, spent time in the army, married Virginia Simms, the love of his life, had three wonderful children, worked for Farmers Home Administration in Comanche, Texas and then Georgetown, and was fully involved in the Methodist church.
In retirement, he and Virginia enjoyed their grandchildren, checking on the cows at the farm, watching lots of sports, and traveling the world.
He is survived by his wife of 62 years, Virginia, his daughter Susan Hammond and her husband Don of Austin, his son Gary Davis and his wife Laura of Andice, his daughter Gina Ivens and her husband Billy of Boerne, and his four grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother Craig.
His viewing will be March 22 from 6-8pm at Ramsey Funeral Home in Georgetown. His funeral service will be at 1pm at St. John’s Methodist Church in Georgetown followed by a graveside service in Andice.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. John's Methodist in Georgetown at https://stjohnsgtowntx.com/give or to a charity of your choice.
George Louis Svatek, age 88, of Temple, Texas passed away on Thursday, March 7, 2024, peacefully at his home surrounded by family. He was born on November 20, 1935, in Shiner, Texas the son of John F. and Angeline (Hajek) Svatek. He grew up on a farm near Crescent, Texas with his parents and 13 siblings with him being the fourth oldest. The love of farming and participating in 4-H activities drove him to wanting to learn more.
George earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Agricultural Education from Texas A&M University, class of 1958 (whoop!), served his country in the United States Army, and went to work for the USDA Farmers Home Administration beginning his career in Liberty, Tx and this is where he first laid eyes on Frances while working at the Liberty County Courthouse whereby, he had to walk past her office to get to his. They married on April 8, 1961. While beginning his career in Liberty, George was a very driven individual and soon began getting promoted and moved to Rosenberg, then Bellville, on to Seguin, and ultimately landing a role in the State office of Temple in 1974 where they nestled in and have resided for the past 50 years.
George’s career lasted 32 years until they were trying to put a computer on his desk……and he said no way! Upon retiring, he was recruited by the local Empire Seed company (who he would visit each day when taking a walk during his lunch hour) to come work and help take care of plants. Then he got wooed by a competitor, Tem-Bel Nursery where he kept their plants alive and even learned how to make bows during Christmas time for the poinsettias. Plants, yard work and gardening were his favorite pastimes, and he was great at it. He was often called upon to help the neighbor kids with their science projects of producing leaf collections since he had such a variety of plants throughout his yard (they all got A+’s) and quite often he would save the day for wedding planners by providing fresh cut English ivy for the decorations. You could tell when he had a great day by watching him sit back, relax with a cold beer, put on some polka tunes, and admire his yard.
Besides his yardwork, George had a love for sports and when he wasn’t watching his beloved Aggies play, he was cheering on his daughter’s various sport teams and never missing a game of basketball, volleyball, softball, or a track meet….in essence, it was his year-round second job being the Team Dad and #1 yell leader.
George was a member of St. Luke Catholic Church in Temple and faith in the catholic church was extremely important to him. He also loved to volunteer and take care of and nurture the flower beds all across the grounds at St. Luke.
George is survived by his wife of 62 years, Frances Svatek of Temple; 2 children: Brad Svatek of Friendswood, Tx and Pam Tomme and husband Chris of Fulshear, Tx; 5 siblings: Billy Svatek and wife Josephine of Needville, Tx, Bernadette Toman of Rosenberg, Tx, David Svatek of Rosenberg, Tx, and Tommy Svatek and wife Lauren of Missouri City, Tx.
He was preceded in death by his parents and several brothers and sisters: Henrietta Barta, Johnnie Svatek, Jimmy Svatek, Tony Svatek, Agnes Labay, Laddie Svatek, Benjamin Svatek, Janice Toman, and Jody Svatek.
In lieu of flowers, memorials to St. Luke Catholic Church (2807 Oakdale Dr. Temple, Texas) would be appreciated (www.slparish.com).
Greggory Lance Smith, age 72, of Morton, Texas, passed away peacefully from this earth into the arms of his Heavenly Father on February 24, 2024. He was born September 12, 1951 in Brownfield, Texas to Manuel “M.T.” and Marijo (Kasinger) Smith. Lance graduated from Plains High School and attended Texas Tech University, earning his bachelor’s and master’s degrees. While attending college, he met his wife of over 50 years, Denise Willis. They wed on December 22, 1973 in Tokio, Texas.
Lance spent nine years as an ag teacher and FFA advisor in New Town, North Dakota, Dell City, Texas, and Junction, Texas, before moving to Morton with his family. It was there that he started his very long career with the USDA, first with FSA and then later Rural Development. After retirement, he continued working in various ways: as an auctioneer, an appraiser, a mediator, a realtor, a continuing education instructor, and a piddler. In his later years, when not working, he spent his time relaxing outside in his garage reading and listening to talk radio or watering the dozens of trees he planted around the house.
Lance was preceded in death by his parents, M.T. And Marijo, in-laws, Billy and Tootsie, and sister-in-law, Annette. He is survived by his wife, Denise, brother Aaron, brother-in-law, Danny, and children, LeAnna, Micah (Laura), and Laura (David). He also leaves behind grandchildren, Rowan, Maclyn, Kelsey (Tanner), and Travis (Melissa), as well as great-grandchildren Carter, Chloe, and Cason, best brother-friend, Jim Ballantine, and many other family, friends, and former students who loved and held him dear.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that contributions in memory of G. Lance Smith be made to Team Crista, a charity started by former students of Denise to aid families in the local area who have children with cancer. Checks can be sent to: Team Crista, attn: Frankie and Christina Rodriquez, 113 E. Washington, Morton, Texas 79346. Online condolences may be offered to Lance’s family at www.ellisfuneralhomes.com.
Mary Nell Wofford, age 84 of Temple, peacefully passed away on Wednesday, February 21, 2024 at a local care center. The family will receive visitors from 10-12:00pm Saturday, February 24, 2024 at Scanio-Harper Funeral Home. A private family burial will be held at a later time.
Mary Nell Wofford was born on August 13, 1939 in Temple, Texas to the late Sterling Cecil Mitchell and Marian Alice Elza Mitchell. She attended schools in Temple and graduated from Temple High School in 1957. She worked for the USDA Rural Development retiring in 2011. Mary Nell was a longtime member of Memorial Baptist Church. She was preceded in death by her parents.
Survivors include her sons, Richard Wofford and wife Melisa of Temple and James Wofford and wife Connie of Burnet; a sister, Jeane Allison of Marble Falls; granddaughters, Megan Welch and husband Mitchell of Troy and Nicole Wofford of Temple; three great grandsons, Haegen, Hudson and Hayzen Welch of Troy and a niece, Lori Lastly and family of Brunet.
Eugene G. Pavlat, age 82, of Temple, Texas passed away on Saturday, February 17, 2024. He was born on August 27, 1941 in Holland, Texas the son of Joseph C. and Angelina (Zrubek) Pavlat.
Eugene earned a Bachelor's degree from Texas A&M University, served his country in the United States Army, and went to work for the USDA Farmers Home Administration. He was a member of St. Luke Catholic Church in Temple, a member of the Knights of Columbus Council #7197 Assembly #1138, current president of the KJT, and when finished with all his activities, Eugene loved spending time at his farm in Holland, Texas.
Eugene is survived by his wife Charlene of Temple, daughter Denise Chenault and husband Mike of Austin, grandchildren, Evan and Kylie Chenault of Austin, a nephew Ronnie Pavlat of Texas and a niece Karen Penler of Ohio.
He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother Joe Pavlet, Jr and an infant brother Dennis Pavlat.
FRIDAY,FEBRUARY 23, 2024
Rosary
10:00 am
ST. LUKE CATHOLIC CHURCH
2807 Oakdale Drive
Temple, TX 76502
FRIDAY,FEBRUARY 23, 2024
Mass of Christian Burial
10:30 am
ST. LUKE CATHOLIC CHURCH
2807 Oakdale Drive
Temple, TX 76502
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Obituary published on Legacy.com by Clarksville Funeral Home on Dec. 19, 2023.
Robert C. Hendley of the English Community passed away December 19 at Focused Care in Ckarksville.
He was born August 15, 1931, in Palestine Texas to Ransom and Eather Thomas Hendley and was Married to Nancy Storey on February 3, 1989.
He has 3 daughters and a bonus daughter Elizabeth Henson of Pittsburg, Laurie Cates of Mt. Pleasant, Mary (Chrissy) Marxsen of Longview and Lori Puckett of Annona Was a Mason and Member of the Masonic Lodge for 63 years.
Veteran of the U.S. Navy
Graduate of Palestine High School and Sam Houston State University. He worked as a teacher and coach at Grapeland Texas ISD before going to work for the United States Department of Agriculture and retired from there after 35 years.
A member of Williams Chapel United Methodist Church and past Sunday School teacher
Survived by his wife, daughters and their spouses (Mike Henson, Jeff Cates, John Marxsen and Trey Puckett), 2 stepsons, John Gray of English community and Kevin Gray of Mt Pleasant and their spouses, several wonderful grandchildren and great grandchildren. Sister, JoAnn Roscoe of Friendswood Tx and brother Terry Hendley of Pattison Tx
Graveside services will be held on Wednesday December 20 at 1 PM in the English Cemetery under the direction of Clarksville Funeral Home with John Moore officiating.
Pallbearers are: Mike Henson, Jeff Cates, John Marxsen, John Gray, Kevin Gray, Trey Puckett.
In lieu of flowers Donations may be made to the English Cemetery P. O. Box 6, Clarksville 75426.
The Retired Former U.S.D.A. Farmers Home Administration Employees sent a sympathy card to the Robert Hendley family and made a memorial donation to English Cemetery, Clarksville, Texas on December 21, 2023, in memory of Robert Hendley. Robert Hendley, Former FmHA County Supervisor at Clarksville, Texas, passed away on December 19, 2023, at the age of 92. The following thank you letter was received from the Robert Hendley Family on January 4, 2024: "FmHA Retirees, c/o Eugene Pavlat, 3310 Mesquite Drive, Temple, Texas, The Family of Robert Hendley acknowledges with grateful appreciation your kind expression of sympathy. Robert Hendley Family"
Neal Sox Johnson Age 90 – Temple, Texas Sox passed away peacefully on 11/18/2023 and is survived by his daughter Tena Duncan, son Olvy, five grandchildren, five great grandchildren, and his closest friends that watched over him in his later years - Shirley Ganson, the Reverend Shelton Rhodes, and all the great folks at Canyon Creek of Temple Texas. Sox was preceded in death by his wife the former Carmen Louise Webb and son Neal Steven. Sox will be laid to rest in the family’s hometown of Nashville Arkansas (service date tbd), alongside his late wife Carmen Louise, son Neal Steven, and their best dog ever Flick. Oscar Neal Johnson was born February 14, 1933, in Murfreesboro Arkansas, one of five children of Olvy Johnson and former Elsie Faye Keeling, and he would eventually change his name from Oscar to his nickname of Sox. In High School Sox played on both the football and basketball teams, became an excellent tennis player and avid golfer. As part of its annual convention, the Rural Rental Housing Association holds the annual Neal "Dirty Sox" Johnson Golf Classic, named in his honor. Sox lived a long full life developing friends and success everywhere, as a Second Lieutenant in the Army, graduate from Henderson State College, Physics Teacher, Architect builder, and he eventually went into politics becoming a political appointee in the Department of Agriculture’s Farmers Home Administration, serving under Presidents Nixon, Ford, Reagan, and Bush. Sox was a leader in the movement to revitalize the Republican Party in Arkansas during the 60’s and early 70’s but Sox’s main success in life was developing positive relationships with people – Sox will be missed by family, friends, colleagues, and the many casual strangers he helped.
The Retired Former U.S.D.A. Farmers Home Administration Employees made a Memorial Donation to Temple Feed My Sheep Organization, Temple, Texas on December 3, 2023, in Memory of Neal Sox Johnson, Former FmHA State Director, who passed away on November 18, 2023, at the age of 90. The Feed My Sheep Organization was founded to meet the needs of individuals and families that are hungry, physically, spiritually and emotionally. More information on the Feed My Sheep Organization may be found on their Web Site.
The following thank you letter was received from the Feed My Sheep Organization on December 13, 2023:
" Retired Former U.S.D.A. Farmers Home Administration Employees, Dear Eugene:
I am immensely grateful for your memorial gift to Feed M Sheep Temple in honor of Neal Sox Johnson. Your gift for our people is a true blessing to so many. Were it not for generous, compassionate people such as yourself, our goal-to feed people who are physically, spiritually and emotionally hungry-would simply not be possible. You are making a profound difference in our community, and God willing, the best is yet to come, both for Feed My Sheep and for Temple, Texas.
Sincerely,
Jeff Stegall Executive Director"
BETH BATENHORST
Mary Elizabeth ‘Beth’ Batenhorst, 66, of Canyon, passed away on Saturday, September 30, 2023.
Services will be at 10:00 A.M. on Friday, October 6, 2023 at Brooks Chapel in Canyon with Daniel Dreher officiating. Burial will follow in St. Mary’s Catholic Cemetery in Umbarger.
Beth was born on March 5, 1957 in Hale County to Alton and Helen (Diuguid) Wyly. She received her Bachelor of Science in Agriculture Business and Economics degree from West Texas State University in May of 1987. She married Paul Batenhorst in Vega on September 6, 1980.
Beth worked for the Social Security Administration for two years before beginning her career with Farmers Home Administration in May of 1978. She worked in the Amarillo County and District Offices until 1983 when she began reporting out of the State Office in Temple as a Program Review Assistant. In late 1984, Beth returned to the Amarillo County Office as Assistant County Supervisor. She worked in the Hereford office from 1986 to 1988, when she was promoted to County Supervisor in Wellington. There, she received the Assistant County Supervisor Employee of the Year for the State of Texas in 1987. For forty years, Beth worked diligently in every position she held.
Beth loved buying and planting flowers and enjoyed shopping immensely. She and Paul spent many hours supporting WT sporting events over the years and cultivated many lasting friendships with the athletes. Beth was preceded in death by her grandparents and parents.
Survivors include her husband of 43 years, Paul Batenhorst, of Canyon; two sisters, Lauri of Hereford and Teresa of Vega; two nephews and one niece.
The family suggests memorials be to the Department of Agricultural Sciences at West Texas A&M University, PO Box 60998, Canyon, TX 79016.
The Texas Retired Former USDA Farmers Home Administration employees sent a sympathy card to Mary "Beth" Batenhorst Family and made a memorial donation in memory of Mary Elizabeth "Beth" Batenhorst on October 3, 2023, to the Department of Agricultural Sciences, West Texas A&M University, Canyon, Texas 79016. Beth Batenhorst, Former FmHA Program Review Assistant, County and District Office Employee, passed away on September 30, 2023, at the age of 66.
The following memorial donation acknowledgement was received from West Texas (WT) Foundation, West Texas A&M University on October 18, 2023:
"Retired Former USDA Farmers Home Administration Employees, Attn: Eugene Pavlat,
Thank you for your recent gift to Agricultural Business Teams in memory of Beth Batenhorst. Your support of WT means so much to all of us.
You have chosen to share in our vision of providing a well-rounded, high quality academic experience to our students, faculty and community, and for that we are grateful.
The University prides itself on educating students who will address the complex needs of our society. Gifts, such as yours, help our graduates to become impactful, global citizens, fully prepared to improve the lives of communities and individuals.
With your support, you have become one of the voices influencing the future of our students.
Thank you, with your help the possibilities are endless.
With gratitude,
Lezlie Davis
Assistant Vice President for Philanthropy Operations"
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PETE MAYBERRY
A celebration of life for John Henry Mayberry will be held at the graveside at 11:00 a.m. Tuesday, September 26, 2023 at Whitehouse Cemetery with Rev. Sherman Mayfield officiating, under direction of Lloyd James Funeral Home.
John H. Mayberry, known as "Pete" to his friends and family, grew up on a farm in Purmela, Texas. He graduated from Gatesville High School and went on to attend Texas A&M University where he was a member of the Corps of Cadets. He graduated in 1958 with a degree in agronomy. While there, he met the love of his life, Aletha, on a blind date where she attended at Baylor University. They married on August 1, 1959 and were happily in love for 64 years. Pete served in the U.S. Army and then worked as a Federal government employee for Farmer's Home Administration until he retired in 1994. After retirement, Pete and Aletha loved to travel the world together and had many great adventures. When not traveling Pete enjoyed golfing, Aggie football and all things sports.
Pete was preceded in death by his son, John Michael Mayberry in 2012. He is survived by his wife, Aletha; daughter, Myla Mayberry; his daughter-in-law, Cindy Mayberry; grandchildren, Micah Mayberry, Madison and her husband, Nick Norsworthy.
Everyone who knew Pete says he was the kindest and most wonderful husband, father, grandfather and friend. He will be sorely missed but we all praise God for His grace and mercy and we know we will be together again. Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.lloydjamesfuneralhome.comfor the Mayberry family.
The Texas Retired Former USDA Farmers Home Administration Employees sent a sympathy card to John H. (Pete) Mayberry family and made a memorial donation in Memory of John (Pete) Mayberry to Texas A&M Association of Former Students, College Station, Texas on October 2, 2023. John (Pete) Mayberry, Former USDA FmHA District Director at Tyler passed away on September 30, 2023, at the age of 87.
"Retired Former USDA FmHA Employees C/O Eugene G. Pavlat, Class of 1963
Eugene,
At a time when you kindly remember someone dear to you, you also thought of the students at Texas A&M University and extended your support to them. On behalf of our students, thank you for your gift in memory of Mr. John Mayberry, Class of 1958.
This support is meaningful to the students who benefit from scholarship awards made available through the scholarship fund. Your thoughtfulness will help provide for the education of a deserving Aggie.
We are honored to have received this gift and have notified Aletha Mayberry of your donation.
Best regards,
Sheila Connor, Class of 1992 Manager of Development"
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DORIS STRAUSS
Doris Venglar Strauss, a God-fearing Catholic lady who loved life, laughter, and dancing entered eternal rest surrounded by her family on January 7, 2023, at the age of 92.
The youngest of eight children, Doris was born to Karolina Cervenka Venglar and Paul P. Venglar in Fayetteville, Tx, a Moravian Czech community, on February 3, 1930. She was very proud of her Czech heritage and community where hard work and church involvement was the way of life, while music, dancing, and singing being the entertainment. Unbeknownst to many, Doris did not know a word of English until she attended the Osveta one room schoolhouse at the age of 6. After her eighth-grade year, the family moved to Egypt, Tx, where she graduated from Crescent High School in 1947. She continued to speak, read, and write Czech her entire lifetime.
In 1948, Doris married Otto J. Strauss and they had 4 children. In 1966, her self-proclaimed best decision was realized when she moved to Caldwell, Tx, another strong Czech community, where she made lifelong friends. She was a civil servant for the USDA Farmer’s Home Administration for 30 years. After retirement, she was a demonstrator for different companies to allow for continued social involvement. However, in 1997 she found her dream job at Strickland Funeral Home where she greeted, assisted, and comforted the citizens of Burleson County until she retired at the age of 89.
Music and dancing on floors covered in wood shavings continued to be her passions. Upon a visit, one may hear her beloved polkas, waltzes, Ray Price, Charley Pride, Jim Reeves, Bobby Flores, Don Ho, Daniel O’Donnell, or possibly Pavarotti in the air. One of her greatest joys was listening to polka music on the radio each Sunday afternoon. Another passion of hers was using her green thumb and keeping a manicured yard at her home that welcomed birds, butterflies, and frogs, her favorite creatures. She was proud and thrilled when it was once selected as “Yard of the Month”. She was happy giving tours to show the different foliage including the antique rose bush that grew from a cutting she received from her mother. Her artistic skills were shown through painting ceramics including wet and dry brushing. This started with making a nativity scene in 1950. Her children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren enjoyed receiving her lifelike creations as gifts. She used this skill to repair the nativity scene displayed at St. Mary’s Our Lady of Lourdes Church.
To say Doris lived a full life would be an understatement. She loved to travel be it by plane, train, automobile, motorcycle, or hot air balloon. In 1995, she fulfilled a dream of visiting the Czech Republic. Involvement in Czech and church organizations continued to be important. She belonged to Burleson County Czech Heritage Society, Burleson County Czech Singers, Sons of Herrmann, RVOS, and participated in the annual Kolache Festival for many years. At St. Mary’s Our Lady of Lourdes church, she was a member of the Altar Society, KJZT, St. Mary’s Women’s Club, Parish Council, Rosary Society, Clerical Endowment Fund Chairman, Cemetery Committee and was a Eucharistic Minister. Other activities included being a blood donor for 50 years, Caldwell Recreation Association Board of Directors Secretary/Treasurer, Girl Scout leader, handmaking costumes for her children’s school activities, a member of the Red Hats of Somerville, and was recognized as Burleson County Citizen of the Year in 2007.
Survivors include daughters Beverly Broaddus and husband Bill, Rebecca Strauss and husband Larry Montoya all of Caldwell, Tammi Lambert of Knollwood, her son David Strauss and wife Carolyn of Austin. Her 5 grandchildren include Brian Broaddus and wife Jennifer of Caldwell, Bradley Broaddus and wife Katie of Round Rock, Stephen Strauss and wife Meghan of Austin, Kathryn Meyeres and husband Brenton of Austin, and Christopher Lambert of Knollwood. She was blessed with 10 great grandchildren and numerous nieces, nephews, and friends.
Per her request, Doris’ body was donated to UT Southwestern School of Medicine. There will be a visitation at Strickland Funeral Home from 8am until 8pm on January 27, 2023 with family present from 5-8 pm and rosary starting at 7. On January 28, 2023, a memorial Mass will begin at 10:30am at St. Mary’s Our Lady of Lourdes Church, Caldwell, Tx with Fr. Melvin Dornak officiating with the assistance of Deacons John Young and Godson Dennis Kutach.
The family would like to extend many thanks to the staff at CHI St. Joseph’s Hospital System, as well as all the healthcare professionals who helped her over the years. We appreciate the excellent and loving care she received from the staff at Copperas Hollow Skilled Nursing and Rehab. Also, the visits, flowers, and phone calls from faithful friends and family meant the world to her and she spoke of them with a smile in her voice and are much appreciated.
In lieu of flowers, Doris asked that memorial gifts be made to St. Mary’s Cemetery Association or St. Mary’s Altar Society 500 W. O.S.R., Caldwell 77836, or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital P.O. Box 50, Memphis, TN 38101-9929.
The Retired Former U.S.D.A. Farmers Home Administration Employees sent a sympathy card to Doris V. Strauss Family and made a memorial donation to Saint Mary Catholic Church in Caldwell, Texas in Memory of Doris V. Strauss on August 14, 2023. Doris, FmHA County Office Employee in Caldwell, Texas passed away in January 2023.
Henry Rayford Head
Henry Head was born on June 13, 1940 in Gladewater, Texas to Henry Leston and Sarah Maudina Snider Head. He was baptized in the Christian faith when he was 10 years old. Henry graduated from Huntsville High School in 1958. He served in the U. S. Air Force for four years. He was employed by the Clarks County Sheriff’s Department. He attended Lamar University in Beaumont Texas. He owned and operated Exxon Service Stations in Temple, Belton and Troy, Texas. He was an auto mechanic and did plumbing and electrical wiring. He worked for the Texas Department of Criminal Justice in Abilene and Gatesville until he retired in January 2001.
He married Myrtle Jane Rose on October 9, 1965. He was a member of Immanuel Lutheran Church, Temple, Texas, where he served as an elder for many years; he also helped with Vacation Bible School and adult Bible classes.
Henry was preceded in death by his parents.
Henry is survived by his wife, daughter Julia Head, son David and daughter-in-law Cathy Head of San Jose, California; daughter Patricia and son-in-law Richard Nipps of College Station, Texas; grandson Tom Head, step-grandson Alex Nipps and step-granddaughter Erica Nipps and granddaughter Tara Nipps, and step-great-grandson Noah Hearn; sister Louise and her husband Robert Slover; sister-in-law Valeria and her husband L.G. Cash; and many nieces and nephews.
Funeral service will be held at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Temple, TX on May 27th at 11:00 am. Burial service at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Copperas Cove, TX on May 27th at 1:30pm. In lieu of flowers, donations would be appreciated to Immanuel Lutheran Church, Temple TX or to a charity of your choice.
The Retired Former USDA Farmers Home Administration Employees sent a Sympathy Card to the Henry Head's Family, College Station, Texas, and made a Memorial Donation to Immanual Lutheran Church, West Avenue H, Temple, Texas in Memory of Henry Rayford Head on May 29, 2023. Henry R. Head passed away in late May 2023 at the age of 83.
Following is a thank you letter received from Immanual Lutheran, Temple, Texas on June 10, 2023:
"Eugene G. Pavlat, 3310 Mesquite Drive, Temple, Texas 76502,
Thank you for your donation to Immanual Lutheran Ministries in memory of Henry Head. Through your gift, God is glorified, and we are enabled to share the good news of salvation, not only with the members of Immanuel Church, but also with others who reside in the greater community of Temple.
May the Lord richly bless you as you continue to serve him.
Yours in Christ's Service, Rev. Grayson Albers Senior Pastor"
Following is a thank you letter received from Myrtle Head:
August 8, 2023
Retired USDA FmHA Employees<
Thank you for your sympathy card and for posting Herry's Obituary on the Texas FmHA Retirees Website. Also, I appreciate the contribution made to Immanuel Lutheran Church, Temple. I understand it was also acknowledged by Pastor Grayson Albers.
It was a nice surprise to see Charles & Jan, Joan & Harold Kurtz and Merlene Bravenec at Herry's Service.
Thank you all so much.
Sincerely,
Myrtle & Family"
LINDA NEWHOUSE:
Linda was born in Knox City, TX to Clyde and Dorcas Walker on October 15, 1939. She graduated from Weinert High School and completed two years at Abilene Christian University. There she met the love of her life Don Newhouse. The two met January 1st, 1962 engaged February 1st, and later married June 1st that same year. As they would say, it was love at first sight. They were blessed with 2 daughters, Karla and Lisa. Linda worked for Sears Methodist Retirement Center for roughly 15 years. She was very involved in the church and her community. Some of her favorite past times were shopping, playing games and puzzles, going to lunch with friends, and spending time with her grandchildren and great grandchildren. Everyone admired her welcoming embrace. She was known and loved by many, but those who loved her most called her Tutu.
Linda was preceded in death by her mother and father.
Linda is survived by her husband Don Newhouse; her daughter Karla Boone and husband Larry, and daughter Lisa Janssen; her grandchildren Dustin Janssen, Kelsey Ishmael and husband Ryan, Shelby Noguchi and husband Jeff, and Carson Boone and wife Addison; and her great grandchildren Sakura, Raijin, Alchemy, and Thorin Noguchi, River and Shade Ishmael, and Denver Boone.
Pallbearers will be Pat Barton, Carson Boone, Larry Boone, John Braden, Ryan Ishmael, and Jeff Noguchi.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be sent to Meals on Wheels or Timothy Hill Ranch.
Funeral services will be held at 2:00 pm on Tuesday, February 21, 2023, at The Hamil Family Funeral Home, 6449 Buffalo Gap Road, Abilene. Burial will follow at Elmwood Memorial Park.
The Retired Former USDA Farmers Home Administration Employees sent a Sympathy Card to the Linda Newhouse Family and made a Memorial Donation to the Abilene Meals on Wheels Organization in Memory of Linda Newhouse on February 23, 2023. Linda Newhouse is the wife of Don Newhouse, Retired Former USDA FmHA Employee. Linda passed away on February 16, 2023 at the age of 83.
Following is a thank you letter we received from the Linda Newhouse Family.
"Retired Former USDA FmHA Employees & Eugene G. Pavlat:
Thank you for your kindness and sympathy at a time when it was deeply appreciated. My Dad wanted me to let you know how much he appreciated hearing from you and your help in spreading the word there in Temple about Mom's death. He has fond memories working at FmHA.
Thank you - Love,
Karla, Don & Lisa 5510 Peppermill Abilene, Texas"
We received the following thank you letter from Meals on Wheels, P. O. Box 903, Abilene, Texas 79604.
"Abilene Meals on Wheels gratefully acknowledges your Memorial Gift in Memory of Linda Newhouse.
Thank You,
Betty Bradley Meals on Wheels"
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TOMMY BUTLER:Tommy Butler, 79, a lifelong resident of De Leon, passed from this life Tuesday, October 11, 2022, at Comanche County Medical Center. He was born July 20, 1943, in Stephenville, Texas to T.F. Butler and Maud Opal May Butler. Tommy married his loving wife of fifty-three years, Patricia Ann Spruill, December 21, 1968.
Tommy graduated from De Leon High School Class of 1961. Tommy raised and ranched cattle and farmed all his life. He loved farming peanuts, watermelon, cantaloupe, peas, guar, and rye grass. When not on a tractor farming, Tommy enjoyed fishing, hunting, traveling, and spending time with his family and many friends. He was a devoted De Leon Bearcat football fan. They are long time members of De Leon First Baptist Church. Tommy was a loyal family man, a hard worker, and a true friend. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him. He is survived by his devoted wife, Patricia; son, Donny Butler; and brother-in-law, Ronald Spruill. Tommy has been reunited with his parents; and parents-in-law, Herbert and Lottie Spruill.
Funeral services celebrating Tommy's life will be held Friday, October 14, 2022, at 10:30 a.m. at De Leon First Baptist Church with Brother Daniel Harper and Brother Paul Winegeart officiating. Interment will follow in De Leon Cemetery. Serving as pallbearers are Jerry McGinnis, Bill Boswell, Mike Huddleston, Jerry Solomon, Jim Farley, and Larry Nowlin. Memorial contributions may be made to Comanche County Hospital Foundation at P.O. Box 634, Comanche, Texas 76442 or to De Leon First Baptist Church at 125 South Houston Street, De Leon, Texas 76444, in memory of Tommy.
FROM FAMILY:
"Retired Former USDA Farmers Home Administration Employees,
The family of Tommy Bulter acknowledges with grateful appreciation the kind expression of your sympathy. Thank you very much for the Memorial Gift to First Baptist Church. We really appreciate you thinking of us at this time. May God richly bless you for your kindness.
Patricia & Son Donny Bulter"
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CHARLES LYFORD BERGMANN: Charles was born to Martha Ann and John Bergmann. Diagnosed with diabetes at a time when treatment was lacking, Charles, Charlie to those who knew him,had a rough start in life. Doctors said he wouldn’t live past his early 20’s, but in true Charlie Bergmann style, his stubbornness would not let it stop him. His adolescence was spentin South Austin playing on the baseball team and teaching himself to play the accordion, an instrument inspired by his deep love for polka. In 1966 he graduated from Travis High in Austin. Heading off to college at Texas Tech was life-changing for Charlie, not only in the way it is for all young adults, but also because he found a new doctor. With this found freedom, Charlie joined the ice hockey team. When he wasn’t in class studying hoticulture, or hitting the ice, he was hitting the ski slopes in Colorado and New Mexico.
After graduating with a degree in Ornamental Horticulture, Charlie worked in the nursery industry before taking charge of the grounds at the Texas Instruments facility in Temple,TX. After establishing himself in the industry, Charlie started his own nursery and landscape business called Central Texas Horticulture Services. In the early 80’s, Charlie met Marian Warschak, and their mutual love of dancing bonded them immediately. Charlie always said he knew it was meant to be when he learned Marian could dance the polka. After marrying in 1985 Charlie and Marian spent their time on the dance floor, on the ski slopes, and traveling Europe so many times they lost count. When their son, Eric Charles Bergmann, was born in 1987 they brought him along on the adventures.
Eventually the family traded the ski slopes for the beaches of South Texas and Mexico, setting a tradition of yearly family trips that always included extended family and close friends excited to go on an adventure with Charlie and Marian. This value of keeping family close, no matter how they might disagree, became a hallmark of their family. As Charlie’s diabetes started to catch up to him, he left the horticulture business, but continued to feed his love for plants by tending a garden and selling the fruits of his labor at local farmer’s markets. Though he would eventually have both legs amputated below the knee, Charlie continued to travel up until the week before his death. Charlie wasn’t going to be done with this life without one more trip to Mexico. At the end of July he got just that. He spent a week surrounded by family, sipping on gin and tonics, and soaking up the sun poolside as the sound of the ocean sang to his ears.
On August 14th, after a week of declining health, Charlie let go of this life the way he lived it, surrounded by the sounds of the voices of his family. Charlie’s sentiment about his family was summed up in a toast on his last Christmas. Charlie said he had “the world’s greatest and best wife” and an extended family “it is a privilege to be a part of,” a family that “is still great, and is just getting greater. Charlie is survived by his wife Marian, their son Eric, his stepdaughters Jacque and Jennifer, his brother John and sister Martha, many nieces and nephews, and four grandchildren.
The funeral mass will take place at 11am on Tuesday August 23rd at St. Luke’s Catholic Church in Temple, 11:00 his home parish where he valued deeply the fellowship of his men’s Bible study group that met weekly. Prior to the service visitation and the Rosary will take place at 10:00 and 10:30am respectively. A private graveside service for family will follow. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to The American Diabetes Association through their website at diabetes.org. Hewett-Arney Funeral Home of Temple is entrusted with the arrangements.
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TOM SPENCER: 72 of Vernon, Texas died on Wednesday, August 10, 2022,Vernon, TX.Services will be Tuesday, August 16, 2022 at 11:00 am at Calvary Baptist Church under the direction of Sullivan Funeral Home. Officiating will be Rev. Tommy Spencer, Rev. Toby Castleberry, and Melvin Lee Clay.Tom was born Friday, September 23, 1949 in Jacksboro, Texas. He was the son of the late Thomas John Spencer, Sr. and the late Inal O’Rene Clay Spencer. He married Nancy Lewis on December 28, 1990 in Vernon, Texas. He worked for FHA Office County Supervisor for Foard, Hardeman, Baylor, Wichita and Wilbarger Counties. He retired in 1995, he was also a local pecan harvester, rancher and farmer in Jack & Foard counties. He loved going to the Sell Barn and he loved gardening. Tom was a member of Calvary Baptist Church and he enjoyed serving at the church where ever he could. Tom is survived by his wife Nancy Spencer of the home. two sons, Thomas John "Tommy" Spencer, III and wife Lana of Amarillo, TX and Robby Spencer and wife Michelle of Vernon, TX, two step-sons Gerald Frank and wife Amy of Lockett, TX., and Wendell Frank of Lockett, TX. brother, Andy Spencer and wife Evelyn of Hillsboro, TX; eight grandchildren; four great grandchildren.He is preceded in death by his parents,a sister Nelda Cox.
Visitation will be Monday,August 15, 2022 6:00 to 8:00 pm at Sullivan Funeral Home. Memorials can be made to Calvary Baptist Church.
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GEORGE KRUPALA:The Retired Former USDA Farmers Home Administration Employees sent a Sympathy Card to the George E. Krupala Family and made a Memorial Donation to the Saint John The Baptist Catholic Church, Schulenburg, Texas in Memory of George E. Krupala on August 21, 2022. George Krupala, Former FmHA County Supervisor in Hamilton, Texas passed away in Hamilton, Texas on January 18, 2022, at the age of 93.
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Floydada-Steve Anderson,age 67, Floydada, passed away on Monday, July 11, 2022. Funeral Service will be 10:00 a.m., Thursday, July 14, 2022 at the 1st Baptist Church in Floydada with Rance Young officiating. Internment will follow at the Floyd County Memorial Park in Floydada. A family visitation will be 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m., Wednesday, July 13, 2022 at Moore-Rose Funeral Home of Floydada. Arrangements are under the personal care of Moore-Rose Funeral Home of Floydada. Steve was born October 2, 1954, to James Louis and Ferne Stovall Anderson in Spur, Texas. Steve attended Floydada schools and proudly graduated in the FHS class of 1973. Steve always stayed close to his classmates. This class holds the record to advancing in football State playoffs making quarter final champions. He attended West Texas State University for a short period of time. He & his sons' mother were blessed with two sons; Brady was born in 1977. Todd was born in 1982. Steve’s lineman career started the opportunity to move back to Floydada and go to work atLighthouse Electric Cooperative, where he retired after making people laugh. He loved cookouts, his family and being the selector of all music played. Steve never met a stranger and was known for his questions and conversations. Steve enjoyed coaching his sons' little league teams, and working with them on their show animals. Other than his sons, the light of his life were his 5 grandchildren. He is survived by his wife Donna of the home; Son Brady and wife Donna of Ransom Canyon; son Todd and wife Ashley of Whitney; granddaughters Maci, Jaylee, Laynee, Taytum and Bryton; brother Mike and wife Barbara Anderson of Floydada; sister Nancy and husband Larry Kirk of Levelland; sister Lisa and husband Tracy Rodgers of Levelland; nieces and nephews who he truly adored; andmany cousins and friends.
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Esther Gonzalez, beloved mother, sister, grandmother, and great grandmother was born in Rotan, Texas on the 10th day of November 1948. She was one of four siblings born to Francisco (Frank) and Benigna Gonzalez. Esther passed from this life and joined the lord in the early evening hours of Friday, March 31st, 2022, surrounded by family. Tuesday, April 5, 2022 beginning at 6:00 pm Rosary to follow at 7:00 pm. Services will be Wednesday, April 6, 2022 at 11:00 am, at St Josephs's Catholic Church in Rotan. Afterward, please join the family for a meal at St. Joseph's (dishes are welcome). From 1975 to 1987, Esther worked as the county office assistant for Farmers Home Administration in Fisher, Nolan, and Wise County. In 1989 she was the assigned administrator for the Farmers Program at the national office in Washington D.C. Esther received special achievement awards in 1981 and 1989 for her work. In 1990 Esther moved to Temple, TX, and continued her work with the USDA. Esther retired from the USDA after 30 years of dedication and ending title of Civil Rights Manager. Esther then moved back to Roby, TX, to devote her time to the care of her parents. Esther loved to travel whether it was a work trip, a family vacation, or a weekend trip with her family. She embraced new adventures and meeting generations her abundance of love, generous nature, and unending faith were obvious to all. She is preceded in death by her father; Francisco Gonzalez, Mother; Benigna Gonzalez, and Sister; Lousia Martinez and brother-in law, Manuel Martinez. Ester is survived by with one daughter she was blessed with, Elena and husband Sonny Jimenez: two sisters. Marcie and husband Alfred Gonzalez and Lucy and Esther was known as GG to her great-grandchildren, Gabrielle Cerna, Olivia Lopez, Triston Lopez, Clarissa Gonzalez, and Amelia Gonzalez. She is also survived by many nieces and nephews. And I heard a voice from heaven saying, “Write this: Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord from now on.” “Blessed indeed,” says the Spirit, “that they may rest from their labors, for their deeds follow them!”
The Retired Former USDA Farmers Home Administration Employees sent a Sympathy Card to the Esther Gonzalez Family and made a Memorial Donation to the Saint Joseph Catholic Church in Rotan Texas in Memory of Esther Gonzalez. Esther was a FmHA County, National & State Office Employee who passed away on March 31, 2022, at the age of 73.
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