Category: Obituaries

Martin L. Gutierrez of Lytle, Texas entered eternal rest on October 31, 2025, at the age of 72. He was born in San Antonio, Texas, on November 5, 1952, to Apolinar and Mary Leyva Gutierrez.
He is preceded in death by his parents and sister Irene Negrete.
Martin is survived by his beloved wife of 49 years, Rosa Irene H. Gutierrez, his brothers Baldino and Gilbert (Olga), sisters Delores, Guadalupe (Jaime), Negrete, Virginia (Ruben) Conde, Anita (Preston) Nichols, and Teresa (Joe) Douglas and numerous nephews and nieces.
Martin’s dream of becoming a truck driver came true when he first started with Coca-Cola Company, then a propane truck. What he really enjoyed was being a cattle hauler; he was able to own his own truck. Health reasons finally got him off the truck. He worked as a diesel mechanic when not driving. Retired he enjoyed watching wrestling and car racing. He will be deeply missed but will forever remain in our hearts.
Services will be held on Thursday, November 13, 2025, at St. Andrew Catholic Church of Lytle, Texas, Rosary to be recited at 10:00 A.M. and the Memorial Mass starting at 10:30 A.M. a reception to follow in the Church hall.
Anyone wishing to leave condolences, share memories, or sign the online guestbook may do so by visiting www.primrosefuneralservices.com

Lucinda May Gonzales, born February 13, 1956, in Rochelle, Illinois, to John and Glendolyn Carson, passed away peacefully surrounded by her family and loved ones on Wednesday, November 5, 2025.
Lucinda was a devoted wife, loving mother, and proud grandmother. Her life was centered around faith, family, and the joy she found in caring for those she loved. She was the beloved wife of Lorenzo Gonzales of Natalia, and the cherished mother of Matthew (Michelle) Gonzales of Natalia, and David (Gail) Gonzales of Devine.
She was a proud grandmother to Mylie Gonzales of Natalia and Zoe (Jacob) Barron of Devine, and a delighted great-grandmother to Tilden Barron. She also leaves behind step-grandchildren, Celeste Muzquiz of Devine, and Brandon Muzquiz of San Antonio, along with great-grandchildren Xavier and Xander Muzquiz of Laredo.
Lucinda is survived by her siblings: Belinda (Don) Luxton of Rochelle, John (Bonnie) Carson of Ashton, Joel (Lisa) Carson of Rochelle, James (Michelle) Carson of Rochelle, and Rhonda (Charles) Vardman of Creston.
She was proceeded in death by her parents, John and Glendolyn Carson; her sister, Glenda Beardin; and her in-laws, Eusebio and Maria Gonzales.
Lucinda will be remembered for her kindness, her unwavering love with her family, and her generous spirit. Her warmth and laughter will be deeply missed by all who knew her.
Arrangements are under the care of Primrose Funeral Services, if you would like to share a memory or express your condolences, you may do so at www.primrosefuneralservices.com

Charles (Joe) Rooks passed away peacefully on Tuesday, October 21, 2025 surrounded by the love of his family. Charles was born on August 14, 1940, in San Antonio, Texas. He attended Thomas Jefferson High School, where he met the love of his life and high school sweetheart, Anna Mae. The two were married and shared 67 years of a beautiful, unwavering love story.
Charles was preceded in death by his beloved sons, David Michael Rooks and Patrick Joseph Rooks; his parents, Wesley and Hortensia Buentello Rooks; and his brother, Randy Rooks.
He is survived by his devoted wife, Anna Mae Rooks; his daughter, DeAnna Gail Huff and her husband Chad Huff of Helotes, Texas; his son, Clyde Lee Rooks and his wife Terrianne Rooks of Lacoste, Texas; his sister, Laura Faust. His legacy also lives on through his grandchildren, Kailum Rooks, Kaylee Elizondo (Bobby), Kurtis Rooks, Cooper Rooks, Ryland Alfaro, Sterling Huff, and Kaiden Rooks; as well as ten great-grandchildren, who will forever cherish his love and the lessons he instilled in them.
A proud skilled aircraft mechanic, Charles dedicated many years of service to Boeing Aerospace. Known for his strong work ethic and remarkable expertise, he took great pride in his craft. Beyond his career, Charles found joy in working in his yard, where his hands shaped the beauty around him.
Charles had a big heart, a gentle spirit, and an unwavering love for his family. He was a man who led with kindness, strength, and quiet wisdom. His presence filled every room with warmth, and his love will continue to guide his family for generations to come.
Charles Joe Rooks will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him, but his legacy of love, hard work, and family devotion will live on forever in the hearts of those he leaves behind.
The Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday, October 29, 2025 at Our Lady of Grace Catholic Church. Interment will follow at Our Lady of Grace Catholic Cemetery in Lacoste, Texas.
Memorials may be made in Charles’ memory to Lytle Animal Shelter or to the charity of your choice.
Arrangements by Tondre-Guinn Funeral Home. www.tondre-guinn.com

Ernst M. Graw, a respected Texas band director, died October 27, 2025, in Dallas at age 87.
Born June 17, 1938, Ernst graduated with honors from Uvalde High School in 1957. He studied music at Sul Ross State Teachers College in Alpine and earned a master’s degree from Texas A&I University in Kingsville.
Ernst began his teaching career in Van Horn, served at Hondo High School, and returned to lead the Uvalde High School Band. He later directed the band at Freer High School and completed his career as Band Director at Lytle High School. Widely respected across South Texas, he frequently judged drum-major and twirling competitions and took special pride in mentoring young musicians.
After retiring from education, Ernst drove for the Texas Test Fleet in Devine for more than two decades. He moved to San Antonio in 2019 and more recently to Dallas to be closer to family.
A proud Eagle Scout, Ernst served on staff at Camp Fawcett and Philmont Scout Ranch, supported council camporees and national jamborees, and was an early member of the Sahawi Indian Dancers. He was also known for his rich bass voice and lifelong love of singing church hymns.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Ernst A. and Flora Graw. He is survived by his brother, Julius Graw; two nieces; one nephew; one great-niece; and one great-nephew, along with many former students, Scouts, and colleagues.
A memorial service will be held November 3 at 10 a.m. at Rushing Estes Knowles Mortuary in Uvalde.

Aurora M. Talamantes, 97, entered eternal rest on October 20, 2025, in Lytle, Texas. Aurora was born in Big Wells, Texas on November 21, 1927, to Genoveva Cardenas and Ovidio Marines. Aurora is preceded in death by her parents, husband; Carlos Talamantes Sr., sister; Consuelo Martinez, Olivia Sanchez, and Anita Marinez, brother; Gustavo Marinez.
Aurora is survived by her children; Carlos Talamantes Jr., Oscar Talamantes, Raul Talamantes, Jose Luis Talamantes, brother; Robert Marines, along with 11 grandchildren and 20 great grandchildren.
The Talamantes family will honor their loved one on Tuesday, October 28, 2025, at Leonard Funeral Home from 4:00 pm to 9:00 pm. A rosary will be held at 7:00 pm. A funeral mass will be held on Wednesday, October 29, 2025, at 10:00 am at the St. Michael’s Catholic Church in Big Wells, Texas. Interment will follow at St. Michael’s Cemetery.
Funeral arrangements under the direction of Leonard Funeral Home, 707 W Houston St, Carrizo Springs, TX 78834, 830-876-2119. You may express condolences, share a favorite memory and sign the guestbook online at www.leonardfunerals.com.

Mariano Aguinaga of Castroville, Texas, entered eternal rest on October 22, 2025, at the age of 96. He was born in Natalia, Texas, on July 29, 1929, to Martin and Ruperta Mercado Aguinaga.
Mariano grew up in Devine and Natalia, where he developed a strong work ethic and deep appreciation for family and community. On April 12, 1953, he married the love of his life, Leocadia “Carrie” Raygosa, at St. Louis Catholic Church in Castroville. Their marriage of seventy-two years was blessed with three daughters, who were the pride and joy of his life.
His first career was ranching and farming, selling goods at local markets. Among his many crops, sugar cane became a family favorite. Later in life, he continued to grow sugar cane and even built his own molasses press, proudly making molasses to share with family and friends.
Mariano eventually became a commercial truck driver, proudly owning his own rig. An entrepreneur at heart, he later partnered with his brother-in-law, Joe Raygosa, to open Aguinaga and Raygosa Automotive, also known as A & R—a one-stop shop that included a gas station, bar, convenience store, and auto parts and repair business. Their success selling auto parts allowed them to travel extensively, creating memories across the globe.
Mariano is survived by his beloved wife, Leocadia “Carrie” Aguinaga; daughters, Monica Sanchez (Scott), Melinda Weiblen (Glenn), and Melissa Aguinaga, all of Castroville; grandchildren, David Sanchez (Jennifer), Sarah Sanchez, Jarrett Weiblen (Stephanie), and Jason Weiblen (Amber); and great-grandchildren, Aeriel Sandoval, Violet Sanchez, Selena Sanchez, Brennan Weiblen, Adele Weiblen, Liam Weiblen, Landon Weiblen, Jillian Weiblen, and Luke Weiblen. He is also lovingly remembered by numerous nieces, nephews, extended relatives, and in-laws.
He was preceded in death by his parents and his brothers, Nieves Aguinaga, Ramon Aguinaga, and Lorenzo Aguinaga; as well as several nephews, sisters-in-law, and other cherished relatives who welcomed him into eternal rest.
Visitation will be held Thursday, November 6, 2025, from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Tondre-Guinn Funeral Home, with the Holy Rosary recited at 5:30 p.m. The Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10:00 a.m. on Friday, November 7, 2025, at St. Louis Catholic Church. Entombment will follow at St. Louis Catholic Cemetery Garden Mausoleum in Castroville.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Mariano’s honor to St. Louis Catholic Church or School, or to a charity of your choice.
The family would like to thank the staff at Changing Seasons for their compassion and care during Mariano’s final moments.
He will be remembered for his entrepreneurial spirit, his devotion to family, and his generosity of heart. His door was always open to anyone in need, a reflection of his faith, kindness, and unwavering willingness to help others.
Arrangements by Tondre-Guinn Funeral Home. www.tondre-guinn.com

Ed Lacy Haywood, 88, of Devine, Texas, passed away peacefully on October 11, 2025, surrounded by loved ones. Born on July 27, 1937, Lacy lived a life filled with kindness, laughter, and an unwavering love for family and friends. Known for his steady nature, quick wit, and generosity, Lacy touched the lives of everyone he met.
A cowboy through and through, Lacy spent much of his life as a rancher, where he enjoyed riding and caring for his horses. He found peace in open pastures and quiet mornings in the saddle, where hard work and simple pleasures shaped his days. His love for animals and the outdoors reflected the same patience and loyalty he gave to his family.
Lacy attended school in Natalia, Texas, and devoted nearly 60 years of his life to Cox Cattle Company and Cox Feedlots, Inc. Throughout his career, he worked as a tractor driver, mechanic, truck driver, and all-around jack of all trades. Known for his strong work ethic and dependability, Lacy could fix just about anything and never hesitated to lend a hand to others. He took pride in a job well done and earned the respect of everyone who worked alongside him.
He is survived by his beloved wife, Sharon Haywood; his sister, Juanita Jones; his children, Vincent and Elexa Allen, Randy William, Robert and Melanie Haywood, Stacy and Amy Haywood, Sheila and Denis Haynes, and Whitney Haywood and Rodrigo Gomez; his stepdaughter, Nicole Haywood; 20 grandchildren; and 19 great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents, David and Melicia Haywood, and his siblings, Lucille Brooks, Annette Todd, Gene Haywood, Liz Haywood, and Vivian Fields.
Though deeply missed, Lacy’s spirit will live on in all who knew him – riding with every sunrise over the Texas fields he loved.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, November 1, from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at First Baptist Church of Natalia, 301 Pearson Street, Natalia, Texas. Family and friends are invited to attend and honor his remarkable life.

Kelly Smith, 59, of Hudson, Florida, passed away on October 10, 2025.
She was born on August 12, 1966, and spent her life working hard, loving deeply, and helping others in quiet but powerful ways.
Kelly had an immense love for the ocean. In recent years, she took up scuba diving and found great joy in catching and cooking fresh seafood. The water was her place of peace and freedom.
A determined and self-made woman, Kelly built her own insurance company from the ground up and faithfully provided for her family. She dedicated her life to ensuring her son had more opportunities than she did—and she succeeded. Her work ethic, resilience, and sacrificial generosity were the defining marks of her life.
Kelly had a heart that could not ignore someone in need. Whether it was helping an elderly woman named Fay recover money and find safe housing—and visiting her until she passed so she wouldn’t die alone—or caring for her father through his battle with Alzheimer’s when others would not, Kelly consistently stepped in when most people stepped away. These are only two examples of the countless acts of compassion she quietly carried out throughout her life.
She was strong, protective, and deeply loyal. Though she carried heavy wounds from her past, she never stopped showing love through action. Those who knew her best saw a woman whose toughness masked a deeply tender heart.
Kelly was preceded in death by her husband, Frank Smith.
She is survived by her son Joshua Ritchey and his wife Jazmin, her grandchildren Liberty (13), Tesla (11), and Emerson (3); her brothers Bryce, Brian, and Tracy; and her mother.
Kelly’s legacy is one of sacrificial love, fierce protection, and unwavering strength. She gave all she had so others wouldn’t suffer. She will be deeply missed, profoundly honored, and forever remembered by those whose lives she touched.

August 26, 1942 – September 27, 2025

Diane entered Heaven on Saturday, September 27, 2025, after a life devoted to faith, family, friendship, and the countless children whose lives she touched through decades of teaching.
Born and raised in San Antonio, Texas, Diane was the only child of John and Helen Hallock. She graduated from Trinity University in her hometown and went on to pursue graduate studies in Iowa. Diane dedicated over 30 years to teaching elementary school, including several years in Special Education before settling into her role as a beloved 2nd grade teacher until her retirement. She cherished each of her students and kept every gift and ornament ever given to her throughout her teaching career.
Diane’s life was defined by service and community. A faithful and active member of First Baptist Church of Natalia, she gave her time generously over the decades. Whether teaching Sunday School, serving in the Children’s Ministry, worshipping in the choir, or volunteering wherever there was a need, she built lifelong friendships grounded in shared faith and love.
She also found joy in fellowship and fun, especially when it involved shopping trips with family and friends to craft and vendor shows like The Peddler Show in Fredericksburg and the Nutcracker Market in Houston.
Although strokes affected her mobility during retirement, she remained faithful in her trust of the Lord. She loved spending time with her grandchildren—attending their activities, enjoying family events at the farm, and celebrating holidays together.
In March of 1968 in San Antonio, Diane married Harold, after meeting him on a blind date. They were happily married for 53 years, building a life together rooted in love, loyalty, and shared purpose.
Diane was preceded in death by her husband Harold Querner, her father John Hallock, and her mother Helen Hallock.
She is survived by her daughter Kim Querner Chiboroski and son-in-law Craig Chiboroski; her cherished grandchildren Hannah Grossman, Lauren Chiboroski, and Craig “CJ” Chiboroski Jr.; nephew Arthur Querner (wife Mandy); and niece Sharra Querner.
The family would like to extend their deepest gratitude to Agape Heritage Home for the compassionate care and love they showed Diane over the years.
Her legacy lives on in the hearts of all who knew her as a devoted wife, loving mother and grandmother, faithful servant, loyal friend, and extraordinary teacher.
Diane’s life was celebrated on Tuesday, October 14, 2025, at First Baptist Church of Natalia at 10:00am and interment service at Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery, Shelter #5, at 1:45pm, in San Antonio, Texas.

November 30, 1933 — September 30, 2025

It is with sadness that we announce the passing of Mrs. Billie Fern Brannin Parker. She passed in San Antonio at the age of 91.
She is preceded in death by her husband, Thomas L. Parker Sr., and parents; Clifford and Leatha Brannin.
Billie is survived by her sisters, Catherine and Caroline; children, Thomas L Parker, Jr. (Lynn), Fred L. Parker (Patricia); grandchildren, Patrick and Nicholas; and great grandchildren, Henry and Finn. She will also be missed by numerous nieces and nephews.
The family will have a private memorial service at a later time.