Jo Ann “Jody” L. Danklefs, a beloved mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend, entered eternal life on March 14, 2025. Jody was raised near Devine, Texas, and graduated from Devine High School. From there, she attended and graduated from Southwest Texas State University. She married Wesley G. Danklefs in 1971 and was an educator for over three decades at South San Antonio High School.
Jody enjoyed nature, the Texas Gulf Coast, various art and craft projects, her three grandchildren and observing the daily adventures of her two cats. Her spirit is carried on by her children, Jon (wife Hilary, children Wesley, Jimmie and Riley); Jake; siblings Clay Lessing, Mark Lessing (Margaret), Beth Pape (Wayne dec.), Janet Mangold (Ronny), Mike Lessing, Carolyn Kempf (Greg), Christi Wells (Duane), Kenny Lessing (Cindy), many in-laws, nieces, nephews, extended family and friends too numerous to list but not forgotten. Jody is reunited with her Mother, Geraldine “Geri” Lessing, Father, Walter Lessing, and the love of her life and husband of 43 years, Wesley G. Danklefs.
Jody put first the happiness and safety of those around her and always carried a smile that would light up a room. Friends and family will meet at St. Joseph’s Parish Church in Devine, TX, on Saturday, March 29th at 9:30 a.m. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Jody’s honor to the ALS Association. Visit www.als.org/donate
Category: Obituaries
Celebrating the lives of the loved ones we’ve lost
Leonel Garza Garcia
Leonel Garza Garcia was born November 7, 1935, in Agua Dulce, TX to Patricio Garcia and Jovita Garza.
Samuel Thomas Neagley Sr.
Samuel Thomas Neagley Sr. passed away peacefully at home surrounded by family on March 2nd, 2025. He was 84 years old.
Sam was born on June 15th, 1940 and lived an extraordinary life full of laughter and fun.
Karen Marie Bower Jensen
It is with great sadness that I announce the passing of our beloved mother and wife, Karen Marie Bower Jensen 72, of Devine, Tx. She went to her lord and savior on Friday March 14th 2025 in San Antonio, Tx.
She grew up in Devine and attended St. Joseph Catholic Church then Devine High School, class of ‘71.
Gilbert Alfaro
Gilbert Alfaro passed away peacefully on February 26, 2025, in Castroville, Texas. Born on January 4, 1942, in Lytle, TX, he lived a life rich with love, service, and deep connections to those around him.
Bill A. Hawkins
Bill A. Hawkins was born on January 12, 1946 in McGregor, TX and passed away February 24, 2015 in San Antonio, TX.
Jose Angel Mancillas
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our Champ, Jose Angel Mancillas.
Bobbie Turner
With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of our beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and great-great-grandmother, Bobbie Turner, who peacefully departed from this world on February 28, 2025, at the age of 89. Born on August 10, 1935, in Moore, Texas, Bobbie lived a life rich in love, family bonds, and leaving an indelible mark on all who knew her.
Andres Sepulveda
September 6, 1964 — February 12, 2025
With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Andres Sepulveda, who left us peacefully on February 12, 2025, at the age of 60. Born on September 6, 1964, Andres was a beloved husband, Dad, Grandpa, Brother, Uncle, and friend whose kindness and generosity touched the lives of all who knew him.
Joe “Jody” Ornelas III
Joe “Jody” Ornelas III, age 53, went to be with the Lord on February 7, 2025. We will miss him dearly and he will always be remembered for his generosity, cheerful personality and love of life attitude.