Category: Obituaries

Jun 17, 1955 — Jun 19, 2026

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of George H. Saenz, beloved husband, dedicated craftsman, and esteemed member of the Natalia community. Born on June 17, 1955, and passed on June 19, 2026. George was a man whose life was marked by his unwavering commitment to his family, his profession, and his passions.
George served honorably as an aircraft mechanic in the United States Navy, a role through which he demonstrated not only skill and expertise but also a deep-seated love for his craft. His colleagues and friends admired him for his work ethic and dedication, which he carried into all aspects of his life. Beyond his professional accomplishments, George took great joy in simple pleasures: relishing a cold beer, savoring barbecues with loved ones, his beautiful family, and embracing the rhythms of life through dance.
George was known as “not to worry”, which was his favorite saying.
George is preceded in death by his parents, Raul Saenz and Juanita Saenz; sister, Sandra Saenz; brothers, Moses Saenz, and Raul Saenz, Jr.; and nephew Gary Alvarado.
He leaves behind his cherished wife, Mary Helen Saenz of 50 years, and children, George Jr. (Patricia), Sergio (Carrie), Gabe (Tanya), and Javier (Trini). He also leaves behind 5 sisters and one brother, numerous nieces and nephew and his 13 grandchildren, that were the light of his life.
His warmth, generosity, and vibrant spirit will be dearly missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.
In this time of sorrow, we remember George H. Saenz not only for the life he lived but for the joy he brought to those around him. May he rest in peace.
Funeral services will be held Monday, June 29, 2026 at Primrose Funeral Home, 14822 Main St, Lytle, TX 78052. Visitation will be from 5 to 7 pm with a Rosary from 7 to 9 pm. Funeral services will be held at St. John Bosco Church in Natalia on Tuesday, June 30, 2026 at 10 am. Burial will follow at St. Joseph Cemetery in Devine.
Services under the direction of Primrose Funeral Services in Lytle.

Our sweet and precious angel, Mary Nell Tudyk, 93, of Natalia, Texas, went home to be with her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ in Heaven, on Sunday, June 14, 2026. She is now joyfully reunited with her beloved husband, Paul Tudyk, with whom she shared 64 wonderful years of marriage.
Mary Nell was born on December 3, 1932, in Lockhart, Texas, to Henry and Lillie Rackley. Faith was the foundation of Mary Nell’s life. As a young child, she attended the Presbyterian Church in Natalia before becoming a lifelong member of Natalia Baptist Church, where she faithfully worshiped and served throughout her life. In her school years, Mary Nell enjoyed participating in basketball, volleyball, baseball, track, and pep squad activities. She graduated from Natalia High School in 1950.
During her life, she worked for Southwestern Bell Telephone Company and Levin’s Factory in Devine.
Mary Nell married Paul on July 11, 1952. They had four children together. She dedicated herself to her family as a homemaker, great cook, canning fruits and vegetables, planting flowers, babysitter, seamstress, and provided ironing services for many members of her community. She remained active and involved throughout her life, especially in her church.
Mary Nell is preceded in death by her parents Henry W. Rackley, Mary Lillie Yarbrough Rackley, her husband Paul R. Tudyk, her daughter Carolyn Ann Tudyk, her brother Henry “Sonny” Rackley, and her grandson Ryan Neal Tudyk.
She is survived by her 3 children, Richard Tudyk (Joyce), Cheryl Tudyk Day, Karen Tudyk Baird; her 6 grandchildren, Michael Tudyk (Jennie), Stacy Day Wiggins (John), Bryan Day (Krystal), Stephany Day McDougal (Chester), Chris Baird, Kevin Baird; her 11 great grandchildren, Audrey Tudyk, Adam Tudyk, Neal Tudyk, Maggie Tudyk, Skyler Wiggins Kingston (Mickey), Paisley Wiggins, Lilly Wiggins, Peyton Day, Paxton Day, Mattix McDougal, Lexi McDougal; her 2 great-great grandchildren, Everly Kingston, Emmery Kingston; extended family and friends. Where her love, kindness, and faith will live forever.
With grateful hearts, the family wishes to express their sincere appreciation to the nurses, staff, and Chaplin of Enhabit Hospice, Abilene, TX. The loving care, comfort, kindness, and compassion they provided to our precious Mama, Mammaw, and Maw was a true blessing to both Mary Nell and our entire family during this difficult time.
Visitation will be held at Natalia Memorial Funeral Home on Thursday, June 25, 2026, from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., located at 2048 TX-132, Natalia, TX 78059.
Funeral services will be held at Natalia Baptist Church on Friday, June 26, 2026 at 2:00 p.m., located at 301 Pearson St., Natalia, TX 78059.
Graveside service will be held at Devine Evergreen Cemetery

Kandi Lyn Mangold, of Devine, Texas, departed this world on May 30, 2026 at the age of 41. She was born October 9, 1984 in San Antonio, Texas, to Leyton Mangold and Karen Frazier.
Survivors include her father, Leyton Mangold (Michele & Kingston) of Castroville; mother, Karen Frazier of Devine; brothers Korey (son Doc) Mangold, and Kolton (Allie and Emmie) Mangold of Devine. Grandmothers Wanda Frazier, Patsy Mangold, and Carol Mangold. Aunts Donna (Gary) Davis, Richelle Mangold, Tricia (Steven) Chatham and Uncle Lanham (Marla) Mangold.
Kandi was preceded in death by her grandfathers Dale Frazier and Dickie Mangold, and her husband John C. Campsey.
Kandi was a bright and intelligent young woman who loved reading and music. She was an excellent dancer, which led to competitive twirling and later to serving as head cheerleader in high school, while also playing saxophone in the band. She loved her little brothers dearly, and treasured her relationships with her cousins Kelly, Kara, and Kathy, who lived nearby. Many family members and friends will fondly remember her beloved pony, “Pancho”, and the happy days spent at the ranch where they grew up.
Kandi will be remembered fondly by all who loved her for her kind heart and gentle spirit. Although she faced difficult challenges during her adult years, we take comfort in knowing that she is now safely resting in the arms of the Father, free from burden and at peace, watching over the precious ones she left behind.
“Do not let your hearts be troubled. You believe in God; believe also in me. 2 My Father’s house has many rooms; if that were not so, would I have told you that I am going there to prepare a place for you? 3 And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am.” John 14:1-3
Visitation will be Friday, June 26, 2026 from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Tondre-Guinn Funeral Home, with a Memorial Service at 5:30 p.m. Services will conclude at the funeral home.
Her ashes will be interred at Black Creek Cemetery near Devine with a graveside service at 10:00 am, on Saturday, June 27, 2026.
Memorials may be made in Kandi’s memory to the charity of your choice.
Arrangements by Tondre-Guinn Funeral Home. www.tondre-guinn.com

John “Jay” Henderson Patterson passed away June 9, 2026, at the age of 88. He was born on March 17, 1938, in Ava, Missouri, to BF (Pat) Patterson and Freida Osborn Patterson. He graduated from West Plains High School (West Plains, MO) in 1956 and proceeded to attend Sul Ross State College on a basketball scholarship. It was there that he met the love of his life, Judith “Judy” Knox. After his graduation the two were married on May 26, 1960.
Jay and Judy moved to Fabens, TX, where he began his career in education and coaching. Jay’s celebrated and distinguished career spanned over 41 years in Texas at Wink, Devine and Medina Valley High Schools. At Medina Valley he was part of the state championship coaching staff in football and rose to the title of Athletic Director. As Director, Jay was instrumental in the growth and development of the Medina Valley athletic programs. After his retirement at MV he continued teaching math locally at San Antonio College.
Jay and Judy thoroughly enjoyed traveling to their favorite locations in Colorado, New Mexico and Wyoming. They found true joy in life with the addition of their three grandchildren. They were regular fixtures with him on the football field. He and Judy also hosted them throughout the summers and attended countless sporting events, graduations and life events in support of them throughout the years. He welcomed great-granddaughters in 2023, 2024, and a great-grandson in 2025 and loved spending time with the newest generation of his family.
He is survived by his children Jay Patterson (Barbie) of San Antonio, TX; Jan Glasser (Mark) of San Antonio, TX; grandchildren, Zac Glasser (Victoria) of LaCoste, TX, Meaghan Patterson Reed (DJ) of San Antonio, TX, Hannah Glasser of San Antonio, TX; great-grandchildren Vanessa and Grayson Glasser, Parker Reed; sister Betty Jean Hickox of West Plains, MO; sister-in-law Jody Knox of Kennesaw, GA; sister-in-law Janelle Patterson of Columbia, MO; nephew Chris Hartman of Kennesaw, GA; honorary daughter Sheri Carter of San Antonio, TX; beloved dog Cozi as well as numerous nieces, nephews and other relatives.
He was preceded in death by his parents and his wonderful wife Judy, brother Lowell Patterson, brothers-in-law Gary Hickox and Charles Knox.
The family would like to thank Always Best Care Senior Services, especially Faith and Anderson for their care along with Dr. Lloyd VanWinkle, Donna and Accent Care Home Health and Hospice.
A Celebration of Life will be held for Jay and Judy Patterson on Saturday, June 27, 2026 at the Braden Keller Center, Castroville, Texas, 1pm to 4pm. Memorials may be made to Medina Valley Sports Boosters or a charity of your choice.
Arrangements by Tondre-Guinn Funeral Home. Visit www.tondre-guinn.com.

It is with sadness that we announce the passing of Mrs. Caroline Alice Brannin Sims. She passed in Castroville, Texas, at the age of 83.
She is preceded in death by her parents, Clifford and Leatha Brannin; sister, Billie Fern Parker; and son, Richard Scott Weber.
Caroline is survived by her loving husband, Patrick Sims; sister, Catherine Carroll; children, Shelly Spurger and Michael Weber (Michelle); grandchildren, Nicole, Maegan, Justin, Joshua, Kyle, Zachary, Taylor; great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren. She will also be missed by numerous nieces and nephews.
Please join us in celebrating her life. Graveside inurnment will be held on Thursday, June 25, 2026, at 1:00 P.M. at Evergreen Cemetery.
Anyone wishing to leave condolences, share memories, or sign the online guestbook may do so by visiting www.primrosefuneralservices.com
Arrangements are under the direction of Primrose Funeral Services, 303 W. College Ave., Devine, Texas 78016, (830) 663-4445.

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved mother, Mary Lee Enderlin, on June 10, 2026, at the age of 83. Born on July 3, 1942, in Val Verde County, to George and Mary Cammack, who precede her, along with her husband, Kenneth Enderlin, brother William Cammack, and sister Dorothy Carney. Mary Lee devoted her life to her family, her work, and the simple joys that made a house a home.
A devoted mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, she found her greatest happiness in time spent with those she loved. She especially cherished farming alongside her husband, tending her garden, cooking favorite dishes for family gatherings, browsing shops on a leisurely afternoon, and making trips to the coast. For two decades, Mary Lee served the Natalia School District with dedication and care.
Mary Lee is survived by her sons, William Enderlin and wife Sandra, Darrell Enderlin and wife Rachel; her daughters, Laurel Ijams, Leigh Enderlin and husband Gabriel Hernandez, Rose Mary Delaney and husband Robert. She is lovingly remembered by her grandchildren, Katie and Wyatt Enderlin, Jessica Nehr and husband Matthew, Mariana Aramburo, Dustin Keith and wife LaShelle, Whitney Keith and husband Tye Dowell, Bo Enderlin, Shelby Vestal, Jacob and Jacelyn Delaney; and by her great-grandchildren, Kylie, Lylah, and Kolby Keith, Kooper and Kenna Dowell, Manolo Garcia, and Kreese Sellers. Her legacy of love and perseverance lives on in each of them.
Visitation will be held on June 18, 2026, from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. at Primrose Funeral Home Chapel, 303 W. College Avenue, Devine, Texas. Funeral services will be conducted on June 19, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at First Baptist Church, 301 Pearson, Natalia, Texas, with interment to follow at Moore Memorial Cemetery in Moore, Texas.
Family and friends are invited to gather in remembrance of a life well lived and a heart that never stopped giving.
Arrangements are under the direction of Primrose Funeral Services, 303 W. College Ave., Devine, Texas 78016, (830) 663-4445.
Anyone wishing to leave condolences, share memories, or sign the online guestbook may do so by visiting www.primrosefuneralservices.com

Helen Solis Gallegos, of Castroville, Texas, passed away June 5, 2026 at the age of 91. She was born May 15, 1935 in Castroville, Texas, one of seven children born to Jesus and Maria Hernandez Solis.
On February 11, 1956, Helen married Stevan R. Gallegos at St. Louis Catholic Church in Castroville. Stevan passed away on December 26, 2025, just a few months before their seventieth wedding anniversary. Their marriage was blessed with six children.
Helen was a member of the St. Ann’s Altar Society and the Guadalupana Society at St. Louis Catholic Church.
Survivors include her children, Richard Gallegos (Maritza) of Alexandria, Virginia, Steve Gallegos (Gail) of Sanger, Mickey Gallegos of Castroville, Kenny Gallegos (Melissa) of Castroville, Stefanie Gallegos of San Antonio, and Felicia Larson (Dane) of Round Rock; grandchildren, Breslly Perez, Nicole Jones (Terry), Chris Gallegos, Alicia Gallegos, Aimee Lee (Jerry), Alex Robertson (Ryan), Ken Gallegos, Amanda Griggs (Justan), Megan Gallegos, Gerald Gallegos, Karina Cardenas, Carissa Cardenas, Tyce Larson, and Kolby Larson; ten great-grandchildren; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and other relatives.
Helen was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Stevan R. Gallegos; brothers, Jessie Solis, Joe Solis, David Solis, Rudy Solis, Sr., and John “Johnny” Solis; and sister, Lucia Reyna.
Visitation will be Tuesday, June 16, 2026 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 at 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday, June 17, 2026 at St. Louis Catholic Church. Interment will follow at St. Louis Catholic Cemetery in Castroville, Texas.
One of Helen and Stevan’s last requests was for them to be buried together at the same time. Their request will be honored and Stevan’s urn will be placed in the casket with Helen. As Stevan was a retired Lt. Col in the United States Air Force, Military Honors will be rendered for him during their joint committal service and burial at St. Louis Catholic Cemetery.
Memorials may be made in Helen’s memory to St. Louis Catholic School, Blessed Moye Catholic School, or to the charity of your choice.
Arrangements by Tondre-Guinn Funeral Home. www.tondre-guinn.com

Michael Ralph Franks, a beloved son, brother, and friend, passed away at the age of 76 on Monday, June 8, 2026, at the La Casita Care Program in San Antonio, Texas. A former resident of Devine, Texas, Mike leaves behind cherished memories and the warmth of a loving family.
Born on October 6, 1949, in San Antonio, Michael was the son of Ralph Ervin Franks and Dorothy Evelyn Collard, both of whom preceded him in death. He is also preceded in death by his brother-in-law, David Fargason, and his niece, Donna Fargason Powe. Mike is survived by his sisters, June Fargason and Cynthia Morris (Jack) of Devine, Texas, along with his nieces Carolyn Evermon (Travis), Julie Pritchard (Todd), and Karen Zacharias Enax (Blake). He was a proud uncle to many great-nieces and nephews.
Michael’s early years were spent in the Black Creek Community, where he developed a strong connection to country life and the Black Creek Baptist Church. When the family transitioned to city living in Devine, Mike attended Devine High School and graduated in 1967. His high school years were filled with adventure as he participated in football, track, FFA, and even pitched watermelons at the Fargason Farm.
After high school, Mike attended Tarleton State University before bravely serving in the Navy on the USS Valcour. Upon returning home, he honed his construction skills under the guidance of his cousins, Charles C. Bruton, and Charles Fischer, and later built homes, hotels, and businesses across Texas. His heart remained with his family, and he cherished the time spent at the Fargason Farm with his sister, June, and her family. Family gatherings-especially during Christmas-were filled with laughter and cherished memories. His generosity also included gifting wedding dresses, wedding cake, and Rodeo tickets.
Sadly, as the years progressed, Mike faced health challenges post-COVID, leading him to spend the last chapters of his life in various healthcare facilities. The family extends heartfelt gratitude to La Casita Care Program and its compassionate staff, who took such wonderful care of him during this difficult time.
We know that he is with his heavenly father and all of his heavenly family. His broken health and broken spirit are now healed, and he is rejoicing.
In honor of Michael’s life, Visitation will be held on Wednesday, June 17, 2026 at 10:00 A.M. with Memorial Services beginning at 11:00 A.M. at Black Creek Baptist Church in Devine, Texas, with service to conclude at the Church.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Black Creek Baptist Church of Devine, Texas.
Anyone wishing to leave condolences, share memories, or sign the online guestbook may do so by visiting www.primrosefuneralservices.com Arrangements are under the direction of Primrose Funeral Services, 303 W. College Ave., Devine, Texas 78016, (830) 663-4445.

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Olga Alvarez, who entered eternal rest peacefully on May 27, 2026, at the age of 87. She was born on September 8, 1938, in Palestine Coachuila, Mexico, to parents Fransico and Francisca Heredia. Olga was a dedicated family woman whose love and wisdom shaped the lives of all who knew her.
Olga will be remembered as a gentle and kind person, a steadfast presence in the lives of her loved ones.
She leaves behind her loving children Gerardo Morales and wife, Linda, Juan S. Morales and wife, Elida, Maricruz H. Espinosa and husband, Nestor; step-children Mike Alvarez Jr. 2nd and wife, Jenny, Dolores Everett and husband, Bobby; twelve grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren; four siblings; numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends who carry forward her legacy of diligence, responsibility, and kindness. Olga’s life was a testament to the values she instilled in her family, teaching them the importance of being helpful to each other and showing unwavering loyalty. Memories of countless days spent outside doing yard work, mending fences, and learning the ways of the world through her guidance will forever resonate in the hearts of her loved ones.
Olga is preceded in death by her parents, Fransico and Francisca Heredia; husband, Mike Alvarez, Jr., daughter, Marivel Perez; son, Jose Antonio Molinar; and step-daughter, Christina Franklin.
Family and friends are invited to celebrate Olga’s life with warmth and love. A public visitation will take place at Primrose Funeral Services in Devine, Texas, on Monday, June 8, 2026, from 5:00 PM until 9:00 PM. A funeral service will be held on Tuesday, June 9, 2026, at 10:00 AM at Primrose Funeral Services Chapel, with interment to follow in Evergreen Cemetery, where we will gather to honor her memory. A meal will be served immediately following the interment.
Anyone wishing to leave condolences, share memories, or sign the online guestbook may do so by visiting www.primrosefuneralservices.com Arrangements are under the direction of Primrose Funeral Services, 303 W. College Ave., Devine, Texas 78016, (830) 663-4445.

Bennie Alfred Duncan, 71, of Moore, Texas, passed away peacefully on May 25, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family and faith.
Bennie was born on August 7, 1954, in Pearsall, Texas, to Ben C. Duncan and Dora Winters Duncan. He was one of eleven siblings and was raised with the values of hard work, humility, faith, and family that stayed with him throughout his life. Growing up in a large South Texas family taught Bennie the meaning of loyalty, resilience, and the importance of always showing up for the people you love.
A lifelong rancher and farmer, Bennie dedicated his years to the land, cattle, and horses he loved so deeply. He was most at peace on the ranch with a cup of coffee in hand, his dogs nearby, and the quietness of the South Texas countryside around him. Bennie was a man of few words, but those who knew him understood the wisdom, strength, and love he carried in his heart.
His life was rooted in simple joys – caring for livestock, working the land, sharing stories with family, and living out his Catholic faith with quiet devotion. Bennie leaves behind a legacy of perseverance, loyalty, and love for the ranching way of life.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Ben C. Duncan and Dora Winters Duncan; his siblings, Emma Riojas, Bennie Otis Duncan, Ramon Duncan, Dora Ramirez, Minnie Cruz, Eloy Duncan, and Irma Lee. He is survived by his siblings, Angel Chapa, Martin Duncan, and Roy Duncan. Though many of his brothers and sisters have gone before him, the bond they shared throughout their lives remained strong, built on family traditions, hard work, laughter, and the memories made growing up together in South Texas.
Visitation was held on Tuesday, June 2, 2026, from 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m., with the Holy Rosary that was recited at 7:00 p.m. at Primrose Funeral Services of Devine.
Funeral Mass will be held on Wednesday, June 3, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Devine, Texas with interment to follow in Moore Catholic Cemetery.
Bennie will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing him. Though his boots may now rest, the lessons he taught through his quiet strength and steady presence will live on in the hearts of those he loved.
Anyone wishing to leave condolences, share memories, or sign the online guestbook may do so by visiting www.primrosefuneralservices.com Arrangements are under the direction of Primrose Funeral Services, 303 W. College Ave., Devine, TX 78016, (830) 663-4445.