Category: Obituaries

March 2, 1940 ~ September 24, 2022
MJ “Butch” Shoemaker, age 82, passed, unexpectedly, Saturday, September 24, 2022 at M.A. Assisted Living, in Natalia.
Butch was born March 2, 1940, in Washington, DC, the son of Milton John aka Milton Fremont Shoemaker and Frances Housel Shoemaker.
Butch, as known by his many friends, graduated from Edison High School in 1958. After graduating from high school, Butch’s mother told him to either get a job or join the military, so at age 18, he enlisted in the U.S. Navy. He served 4 years as an Electrician’s Mate aboard the Aircraft carrier, USS Coral Sea. In May 1964, after his military service was completed, he went to work for Union Pacific Railroad, which later became Missouri Pacific or MOPAC. Butch started as a Trainman and worked his way up to Conductor status when he retired, after 41 years, in January 2005. He loved working for the Railroad, was dedicated to his job, and formed many Railroad friendships during this time, with lunches and get-togethers continuing after his retirement.
In his mid-30’s, Butch married Juanita Hill and they were married for 32 years until her death in 2009. In 2010, Butch was fortunate to find, at age 70, the perfect partner with whom to spend the rest of his life, Linda Darlene (Rutherford) Glover. They were married for 12 years. It was during this time that Butch was baptized at Southwest Church of Christ, by Bro. Bob Stokes, the minister who married them. Bro. Bob and Butch became good friends and Butch became a faithful servant to his Lord and Master. Even though he had only been a Christian a short time and was still learning, Butch would participate in helping serve at the Communion table and whatever else he felt comfortable doing. A few years ago, Butch & Linda started worshipping at the Natalia Church of Christ closer to home in Lytle and developed a deep fondness for this loving and caring “church family”. Butch loved his church family, his immediate family, especially all the children with whom he bonded very quickly.
He loved driving his 1919 Model-T Depot Hack, which he inherited from Juanita’s father. He got a big thrill out of driving it in parades, going on Model-T tours along with Linda and Butter, his yellow lab. She rode in the front seat next to Butch until Linda came along, and then she had to “take a back seat” but was ok with that just as long as she got to ride.
He also loved his animals, watching the weather and beautiful sunrises and sunsets. Butch always had a firm handshake and a bear hug for anyone he met…it was really hard for him during Covid to refrain from hugging anyone.
He was a gentle man who exhibited concern and empathy for others. Butch supported the Veterans of Foreign Wars and when available would buy a poppy or two from them. He always made it a point that we vote in important elections.
Surviving, in addition to his wife, Linda, are his step-children, Christine M. Glover of Lytle; Justin W. Glover and wife, Sharon, of Natalia; three step-grandchildren, Coleton Martin, Darren Glover and Katelyn Glover; one step-great-granddaughter, Kendall Martin; one sister, Georgiana “Pinky” Shoemaker Starzel and husband, Dave Madison of Denver; two brothers, Lawson Housel “Happy” Shoemaker and his wife, Pat; Joel David Shoemaker; & numerous nieces and nephews.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Thursday, March 2, 2023 at 11:00 am at Primrose Funeral Services, 14822 Main Street, Lytle, Texas 78052 with Preacher Jim Word officiating.
A private burial will follow at Jourdanton City Cemetery in Jourdanton, Texas.
Memorials can be sent to M.A. Assisted Living, 185 CR 679, Natalia, TX. 78059, under MJ “Butch” Shoemaker or Natalia Church of Christ, P.O. Box 209, Natalia, Texas 78059
Anyone wishing to leave condolences, share memories, or sign the guest book may do so at www.primrosefuneralservices.com
Arrangements by Primrose Funeral Services, 14822 Main St., Lytle, Tx. 78052, (830) 709-0698.

Phyllis Ann Hill, born May 26, 1936 to parents Bud and Ora Hamilton of Natalia, entered the gates of Heaven on February 8, 2023, to join the love of her life, John Logan Hill. John and Phyllis met in Eagle Pass Texas at the movie theater, it was love at first sight! They would make many trips back to Eagle Pass, where they enjoyed playing the slots at Kickapoo. They’ve now hit the Mega jackpot by rejoining in Heaven where they can enjoy eternal life together.
Phyllis is preceded in death by her husband John Logan Hill, parents Bud and Ora Hamilton, Father and Mother In Law Dee Witt and Ada Hill, son Keith and Grandson Christopher. She is survived by her brother J.J. Hamilton (Linda), sons John Phillip Hill (Paula), Mark Allen Hill (Deb), daughter Robin Kay Qualls (Mike), grandchildren John Dee Hill, Connie Hill, Jessica Reyes, Danny Hill (DeShana), Shannon Holland (Tim), April Qualls, Amanda Morrow (Joseph), 14 great-grandchildren and 4 great-great-grandchildren.
Phyllis had a heart of gold, always caring for others and being the anchor to never let you fall. She made an impact on anyone she met with her kindness, nurturing and humorous spirit, loved by all. Although we will miss her tremendously, her presence will always be with us, we know that her faith has carried her on to her Heavenly Father and she’s rejoicing in Heaven with a big family reunion! And making sure all the kitty cat’s are well fed! We love you Mama, Grandma, Meemo, Sissy.
Visitation will be held on Friday, February 24, 2023, starting at 1:00 P.M. until 2:00 P.M. Primrose Funeral Services Chapel Devine, Texas with a Graveside service starting at 2:30 P.M. at Evergreen cemetery.
Anyone wishing to leave condolences, share memories, or sign the online guestbook may do so at www.primrosefuneralservices.com Arrangemtns are under the direction of Primrose Funeral Services, 303 W. College Ave., Devine, Texas, 78016, (830) 663-4445.

Hilda Cassiano Samudio was born August 9, 1946 in Big Wells, Texas. Her parents Enedina and Ernesto and her granddaughter, Alyssa, preceded her in death. On February 15, 2023, Hilda’s prayers were answered to be in heaven with her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
During her life, Hilda made a very special and lasting impression on all who knew her. At a young age, she met the love of her life, Joe. She worked in Social Services and many other successful business ventures, offering support and comfort to all. Over the years she made a happy home, raised a beautiful family, and welcomed others into it with open and loving arms.
Hilda was a VERY SPECIAL LADY. She was funny and feisty with a big heart. Her superb cooking skills and passion were better than any Food Network star! Hilda was “the best” at everything she set her heart and mind to. Nothing made her smile more than spending time with Joe, her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Hilda was a true matriarch of the entire family.
Hilda’s love, life, and legacy will forever be precious memories for her husband Joe; her children Danny (Kim), Debbie (Phil), Joey (Julie), Jamie (Paula), Sister Odilia and Brothers Oscar (Yolanda) and Mario (Pat); her grandchildren, Daniel, Jake, Jordan, Josh, Payton, Lauren, Phillip, Paul, Sarah, Felipe, Erik and Maddox; Great- Grandchildren Ari, Amias, Bria, Kyra, Kaleb, Danica, Dante, Kailo and all of her nieces and nephews. Hilda will be missed and fondly remembered by a host of other relatives and friends.
Visitation will be held on Saturday, February 25, 2023, beginning at 10:00 A.M. with a Celebration of life starting at 1:00 P.M. at Primrose Funeral Services Chapel, Devine, Texas with service concluding at the funeral home.
Anyone wishing to leave condolences, share memories, or sign the online guestbook may do so at www.primrosefuneralservice.com
Services are being conducted by Primrose Funeral Services, 303 W. College Ave, Devine, Texas 78016.

Phyllis Ann Hill, born May 26, 1936 to parents Bud and Ora Hamilton of Natalia, entered the gates of Heaven on February 8, 2023, to join the love of her life, John Logan Hill. John and Phyllis met in Eagle Pass Texas at the movie theater, it was love at first sight! They would make many trips back to Eagle Pass, where they enjoyed playing the slots at Kickapoo. They’ve now hit the Mega jackpot by rejoining in Heaven where they can enjoy eternal life together.
Phyllis is preceded in death by her husband John Logan Hill, parents Bud and Ora Hamilton, Father and Mother In Law Dee Witt and Ada Hill, son Keith and Grandson Christopher. She is survived by her brother J.J. Hamilton (Linda), sons John Phillip Hill (Paula), Mark Allen Hill (Deb), daughter Robin Kay Qualls (Mike), grandchildren John Dee Hill, Connie Hill, Jessica Reyes, Danny Hill (DeShana), Shannon Holland (Tim), April Qualls, Amanda Morrow (Joseph), 14 great-grandchildren and 4 great-great-grandchildren.
Phyllis had a heart of gold, always caring for others and being the anchor to never let you fall. She made an impact on anyone she met with her kindness, nurturing and humorous spirit, loved by all. Although we will miss her tremendously, her presence will always be with us, we know that her faith has carried her on to her Heavenly Father and she’s rejoicing in Heaven with a big family reunion! And making sure all the kitty cat’s are well fed! We love you Mama, Grandma, Meemo, Sissy.
Visitation will be held on Friday, February 24, 2023, starting at 1:00 P.M. until 2:00 P.M. Primrose Funeral Services Chapel Devine, Texas with a Graveside service starting at 2:30 P.M. at Evergreen cemetery.
Anyone wishing to leave condolences, share memories, or sign the online guestbook may do so at www.primrosefuneralservices.com Arrangemtns are under the direction of Primrose Funeral Services, 303 W. College Ave., Devine, Texas, 78016, (830) 663-4445.

Anna Lee McAnelly Fronczek Strait (Feb. 9, 1920 – Feb. 3, 2023)
Anna Strait, affectionately known as “Pidge”, went to be with her Savior on February 3, 2023, just six days before her 103rd birthday. Anna’s remarkable life began at the McAnelly home near Yancey, Texas where she was born to Gladden Clyde McAnelly and Hallie Laura Nixon McAnelly. She and her six siblings grew up on the family ranch with no electricity or running water in the house. They rode Shetland ponies and horses into town to attend school. Anna graduated from Yancey High School in 1938 as valedictorian. She then went on to earn a bachelor’s degree from the University of Texas-Austin in elementary education, and later a master’s degree in counseling and guidance from McNeese State University in Lake Charles, Louisiana. Anna taught elementary school in several communities around south and central Texas and worked as a typist in the Texas State Library in Austin. She married Chester “Chet” Fronczek on New Year’s Eve, 1944 just before he shipped out to the Pacific Theater of WW2. They spent 29 years in Westlake, Louisiana, raising their three sons and actively serving in their church and community. After Chet’s death she moved to Pearsall, Texas and married John B. Strait. She was active in the Pearsall Methodist Church and the Gideons Auxiliary. Anna lived in Pearsall for 41 years before moving to Decatur, Texas in 2017.
Anna was a self-described “eternal optimist” and a genuine people-person, who always kept her loved ones connected. Throughout her life, she cherished sharing family updates, which started as hand-written newsletters then, as technology changed, she used typewriters, phone calls, word processors, emails, text messages, and even social media to keep loved ones informed.
Anna’s love for family and friends was unwavering, and her absence will be deeply felt. She cherished the tradition of spending time at the Frio River with her family. Even at the age of 99 years young, she tubed down the Frio. She was often seen with a camera in hand, capturing every event in photographs. Anna adored moments spent with others and made sure to preserve them. Anna’s love of games brought people together and created lasting memories. During family gatherings, Anna was known to spark lively and competitive games of Pitch, a cherished family card game. Games were more than just a way to pass the time for Anna, they were a means of connecting with others and creating lasting bonds. Whether she was winning or losing, Anna was always having a good time, and her love of games will forever be remembered by all who had the privilege of playing with her.
Anna is survived by sons Franklin R. “Frank” Fronczek (Rosalind), William G. “Bill” Fronczek (Cynthia), stepchildren George H. Strait (Norma) and Pency Edel (Leander), daughters-in-law Carol Coen Fronczek and Beverly Singleman, and stepdaughter-in-law Denise Strait. She is also survived by grandchildren Kathy Ellis, Joseph Fronczek (Randi), Phillip G. Fronczek (Lara), Jennifer Fronczek (John), Christopher F. Fronczek (Ariana), John B. Strait III “Trey” (Ashley), Kara Silva (John), George H. “Bubba” Strait, Jr. (Tamara) as well as many great grandchildren, nephews and nieces.
Anna was married to Chester Fronczek and later to John B. Strait, both deceased. Her six siblings, all deceased were Dora Mae Faseler, Hallie Lorine McAnelly, John E. McAnelly, Gladden C. “Rusty” McAnelly, Jr., James W. “Dick” McAnelly, and Charles W. “Dook” McAnelly. She was predeceased by son Ronald C. Fronczek, stepson John B. “Buddy” Strait Jr., granddaughter Jenifer Strait, and grandson Walker Strait.
A visitation will be held on Friday, February 17, 2023 from 6:00 PM until 8:00 PM at Primrose Funeral Services in Pearsall. Anna’s funeral service will be held at the Pearsall Methodist Church on Saturday, Feb. 18, 2023 at 1:30 PM, followed by interment at the Yancey Cemetery.
The family thanks the staff of Governor’s Ridge Retirement and Assisted Living in Decatur, Texas for their loving care for the last 5 years.
Also, the family expresses special thanks to her many private care givers, especially Jean Burns and Gerry Lobdell who loved her and held her hand during the final months of her life.
Memorials can be made in honor of Anna to Gideons International.
“Think Positive!” – Anna Strait
If you wish to sign the guestbook or share a memory you may do so by visiting primrosefuneralservices.com. Arrangements are under the direction of Primrose Funeral Services in Pearsall, Texas.

Deborah Thompson, age 70, died peacefully on January 28, 2023 in San Antonio, Texas following complications of diabetes. Born on June 25, 1952 in Charleston, South Carolina to Dr. and Mrs. Oliver Carrier, she was the middle of five children. She earned her bachelor’s and master’s degrees in early childhood education in San Antonio, Texas. She lived in several states throughout her life, but eventually settled in Devine, Texas at the end of her life. Debbie was a devoted educator for almost fifty years with a special heart for teaching special education and life skills classes. She was always looking for new and creative ways to teach and engage with her students. A generous daughter, sister, aunt and great aunt, Debbie is survived by her sister, Sharon Weber and husband Matthew; brother, Richard Carrier and wife Tammy; and sister-in-law, Holly Carrier; nephew Jason Weber, wife Sarah and their children Samantha, Annabelle, Riley, Avery, Nathaniel, and Clarabelle; niece, Ashley Chavez, husband Luis and their child Kyler; and niece, Laurie Feilmeier and husband Tom.
Debbie is preceded in death by father, Dr. Oliver Carrier; mother, Mary Carrier; brother, Dr. Gerald Carrier; brother, Robert Carrier; and nephew, Chad Carrier. While she will be deeply mourned by many, we rejoice that she is at peace and with the Lord.
A church service will be held at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Devine, Texas on Friday, March 3, 2023, Rosary at 9 am, Mass at 10 am with a reception to follow.
In lieu of flowers, her family would welcome donations made in Debbie’s honor to Morgan’s Wonderland, an accessibility-focused theme park in San Antonio that is near to Debbie’s heart for special needs children.

Rosenda (Rosie) Dolores Young of Devine passed away January 20, 2023 at the age of 37.  She was born in San Antonio on February 20, 1985.  
Our beloved Rosenda, was born on February 20, 1985 to Sisto and Olga Morales in San Antonio. Rosenda was also known as Rosie and Chendita by those who loved her.
Rosie graduated from Devine High School in May of 2003 and received her Bachelor’s Degree in communications from UTSA in 2008.
Her first job was at Shepler’s Western Store-which if you know Rose, you know it took a while for her to see a paycheck because of her love of boots and western wear.
Her second job was at Wyndam Resorts where she met the love of her life Joe Young. Prior to leaving Wyndam she got the best gift in her life (the Ring on her finger). Rosie was hired by the Cavender Family at their Toyota location, where she served as their HR specialist. Rosie enjoyed her employment with the Cavender Family.
On November 12, 2016, Rosie and Joe became one as husband and wife. This began a new chapter for Rosie with her bonus kids, Genesis and Brice. The family members grew with the addition of Panda, Berlin, and Canela, their beloved dogs. You would never see them alone without the dogs in Joe’s four runner, with each dog’s head sticking out a window. Rosie would be squished somewhere in there, just smiling away. They were going to a party, and as they were driving, they came across a dog along the roadway. So, she made Joe stop and they picked up the dog and that’s when Dolly joined their pack. Rosie and Joe enjoyed traveling together within the states.
Rosie had very strong family values; she was always concerned about her family and friends, always willing to lend a hand with whatever they needed. Regardless, of how hectic her life was, she always took time out to help those in need, just as she did with Miss Dolly. She truly was doing God’s work.
Rosie was so full of love and life for anyone she came in contact with. Her love and compassion overflowed from her glowing face and smile, and not to mention her red lipstick. The room would light up once she walked into it, with her big smile.
Rosie was also very faithful and loved the Lord and lived life positively.
There will NEVER be another Rosie and as she would say
“ALWAYS LIVE YOUR LIFE TO THE FULLEST AND NEVER BE MAD BECAUSE LIFE IS TOO SHORT!”
She is preceded in death by her husband, Joseph Earl Young and grandparents Sisto and Simona Morales and Manual M. Rodriguez.
Rosenda (Rosie) is survived by her parents Sisto Jr. and Olga Morales, and loving bonus children, Genesis and Brice Young along with numerous aunts, uncles and cousins.
Visitation was held Friday, January 27, 2023, at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church starting at 5:00pm until 9:00pm with a reciting of the rosary at 7:00pm.  
Mass was celebrated at St. Joseph Catholic Church on Saturday, January 28, 2023 starting at 10:00 am, followed by the  burial at St. Joseph’s Catholic Cemetery Devine. 

In loving memory of our mother, Wanda Fay Gates, 88, of Lytle, who passed away on January 26, 2023. She was the devoted wife of Joel Coy Gates, Sr. and loving mother to Joel Coy Gates, Jr., Janet Lynn Yarbrough and Jill Fay Gates. She will be deeply missed by all who knew her.
Our mother was a kind, caring and giving person who always put the needs of her family before her own. She was a strong woman who faced every challenge in her life with courage and dignity. She was a source of inspiration to us all and we will carry her spirit and memory in our hearts for the rest of our lives.
Wanda was always there for her family helping us navigate through life. You would always find her in the stands cheering on her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren; cooking Sunday dinner, working in her beautiful garden or taking the kids for a day of swimming at the lake. Her faithfulness and loyalty to her family never wavered. She was a true role model who we will always look up to.
Born in Stonewall, Texas on October 12, 1934, she was preceded in death by her parents, Jesse Albert Holden and Effie Mae Andrews Holden; husband, Joel Coy Gates, Sr.; and siblings, Charles Ober Holden, John Lee Holden, Velva Mae Holden Naegelin, Jesse “Pete” Ancel Holden and Melvin James Holden.
She is survived by her sister, Effie Holden Hearn; children, Joel Coy Gates, Jr., Janet Lynn Yarbrough (Steven), Jill Fay Gates; grandchildren, Leigh Anne Watkins (Shawn), Jolinda Arroyo (Chris), Kristin Morris (Robert), Brooke Higgins (Ryan), Joe Allen Carter and Rebecca Tumlinson; as well as 7 great-grandchildren.
Funeral services will be held on Saturday February 4, 2023, at Primrose Funeral Services, 14822 Main Street, Lytle, Texas 78052.
Family visitation will start at 9 am and public visitation will start at 10 am, with the funeral service to follow beginning at 11am. The burial service will follow, immediately after, at the Lytle Masonic Cemetery.
Mom, you will always be in our hearts, and we will never forget you. We love you so very much. Rest in peace.
Anyone wishing to sign the online guestbook, share memories or issue condolences to the family, may do so at www.primrosefuneralservices.com 
Arrangements under the direction of Primrose Funeral Services, 14822 Main Street, Lytle, Texas, 78052

Magdalena P. Garcia, age 75, of Devine, Texas, passed away on January 23, 2023, in Minot, North Dakota. Magdalena was born in Devine, Texas on April 14, 1947, to Simona and Simon Garcia.
Magdalena is preceded in death by her parents: Simon and Simona Garcia; sisters: Amelia Gutierrez, Maria Ellena Gutierrez, Anita Torrez, and Gloria Valdez; and brothers: Perfecto Garcia, and Carlos Garcia.
Magdalena is survived by her husband: Fortino Velasquez; sons: Damion Garcia (Elizabeth), Marcus Garcia (Danielle), and Simon Garcia (Terry); daughter: Erlinda Garcia; sisters: Maria Alvarez, and Ofelia Church; 15 grandchildren, and 5 great-grandchildren.
A visitation will be held on Monday, January 30, 2023, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., followed by recitation of the rosary at 7:00 p.m. at Hondo Funeral Home. Funeral Mass will be held on Tuesday, January 31, 2023, at 10:00 a.m., at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, followed by interment at St. Joseph’s Cemetery.
Services are under the direction of Hondo Funeral Home.

Nelda Elise Franks, age 95 of Devine, Texas entered eternal rest on Sunday, January 15, 2023. She was born on May 4, 1927, in Tilmon, Texas to parents, Arthur Benton and Nona May Jackson Franks.
Nelda is preceded in death by her parents; sister, Imogene Taylor; brother, Vores W. Franks.
She is survived by her children, Joel Bryant Kirkpatrick III, Robbie Louise Roberts and husband, Richard, Nancy Lynn Thetford, Steven Glen Franks and wife, Nancy; brother, Harold D. Franks and wife, Helen; numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nephews, and nieces.
Visitation was held on Thursday, January 19, 2023, 5:00 P.M. until 9:00 P.M. family to receive friends between 5:00 P.M. and 7:00 P.M. Primrose Funeral Services Chapel Devine, Texas. Graveside service was held held on Friday, January 20, 2023, 11:00 A.M. Jeffrey Cemetery located Farm to Market Road 713, 10 miles east of Lockhart, TX and 1 mile West of McMahan, TX. Services will conclude at the Cemetery.
Anyone wishing to leave condolences, share memories, or sign the online guestbook may do so at www.primrosefuneralservices.com Arrangements are under the direction of Primrose Funeral Service 303 W. College Ave., Devine, Texas, 78016, (830) 663-4445. Email info@primrosefuneralservices.com