Category: Obituaries

Louise Giorda, born October 14, 1942, passed away peacefully on April 11, 2026, at the age of 83.
She was known and loved by many simply as “Mama Lou” or “Nana”, though to those
closest to her, she was so much more. She was a steady source of friendship, vivacious humor and giving spirit.
Louise is survived by her beloved sister, Carolyn. She was preceded in death by her brothers, Jack, James, Larry and Ellis, along with her recently departed husband, Joseph Giorda, who surely welcomed her home with open arms.
Louise was known for the simple but meaningful joys she brought into the lives of
others. She had a love for cooking that filled both homes and hearts. We will never forget her famous sugar cookies, banana bars, and homemade chicken soup that she always had ready for her whole family to enjoy. Her homemade spaghetti sauce, sourced from her own garden tomatoes, was referred to as “liquid gold” by her
brother-in-law, Scott. She found peace and happiness tending to her garden. Her beautiful roses, lovingly cared for over the years, became a reflection of who she was. Between her children Pamela, Karen, Geoffrey and Gregory, she boasts seven wonderful grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren, who continue to grow and
bring beauty and meaning to the world. Those who knew Louise will remember her quick-witted spirit and the meaningful conversations she shared so freely with family and friends. Whether through a home-cooked meal, quips about the latest book or magazine she had read, or the treasure troves she cultivated from her garden, she made people feel welcomed and enamored with her presence. We will carry her memory with us in every blooming rose, every shared meal and every moment of togetherness she taught us to cherish. Louise Giorda, we love you and you will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

Romalda Flores Buentello, born in San Antonio and raised in Devine, passed away on Saturday, May 23rd, in Austin, surrounded by her family. She leaves behind a legacy of faith, compassion, humility, and devotion to family. Romalda embodied motherly love, kindness, and service throughout her life, touching the hearts of all who knew her.
Romalda was a deeply caring and selfless woman who devoted her life to caring for her mother, Alejos F. Buentello. Her dedication and unwavering commitment reflected the gentle spirit and strong faith that guided her every day.
She worked at Christus Santa Rosa Hospital in San Antonio as a medical biller and coder, where she was known for her strong work ethic and caring nature. Later in life, she transitioned to working with Devine Independent School District as a substitute teacher, where she became a valued support to students and staff. Romalda especially took the lead in supporting children with dyslexia and English as a Second Language classes for adults, helping serve both with patience, compassion, and encouragement.
A woman of deep spirituality, Romalda greatly admired Mother Teresa and treasured the extraordinary honor of meeting her, along with her mother, Alejos, in San Antonio before she was canonized as a saint. That experience remained one of the most meaningful moments of her life and reflected the servant-heartedness that Romalda herself embodied.
Romalda was preceded in death by her parents, Librado and Alejos Flores Buentello; her brothers, Librado F. Buentello and Gilberto F. Buentello; her sister and brother-in-law, Delfina and Cecilio Gonzalez, Jr.
Left to cherish her memory are her sisters-in-law, Ramona Buentello and Stella Buentello; numerous nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins, friends, and all whose lives she touched through her kindness and faith.
The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to Delfina, Aliza, and Anna for the loving care, compassion, and caregiving support they provided to Romalda. Their dedication brought comfort not only to Romalda but also to her family and loved ones.
She will be remembered for her quiet strength, generous heart, strong faith, and motherly love she showed to her family, friends, students, and community. Romalda’s life was one of service, humility, and grace, and her memory will continue to live on in the lives of those she touched.
Visitation will be held on Thursday, June 4, 2026, from 5:00 PM until 9:00 PM with a Rosary recited at 7:00 PM at Primrose Funeral Services Chapel Devine, TX. Mass will be held on Friday, June 5, 2026, at 10:00 AM at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church with interment to follow in St. Joseph’s Catholic 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, TX 78016, (830) 663-4445.

Belinda Mata DuBose passed away unexpectedly on May 19, 2026, at the age of 68. She was born on July 24, 1957, in Highland Park, Illinois, to her parents, Maria and Jesus “Chuy” Mata.
Belinda lived her life filled with love, strength, dedication, and faith. She shared her life and made cherished memories alongside her husband of nearly 25 years. She was known as a sister in Christ at St. Joseph Catholic Church, where she served on the ACTS team and was always willing to volunteer or lend a helping hand.
She enjoyed sewing, a hobby taught to her by her mother. Belinda came from a large family and cherished every opportunity to visit loved ones in Illinois. She’d gather with her parents, siblings, daughters, nieces, nephews, and cousins and share lasting family memories.
Belinda and David always had a large garden where she enjoyed seeding her own plants and flowers. She truly had a green thumb and was also a member of the Garden Club, Quilting Club, and Art Club.
She loved to travel and visit churches along the way. She also enjoyed traveling in her RV, always bringing the dogs along on their adventures. In her later years, she especially cherished traveling with her daughters, spending time together laughing, and creating fun memories they would always treasure. Belinda and David loved to dance; any music had them floating around the dance floor. She was known for her unforgettable laugh and her love of life.
She is survived by her husband, David Wayne DuBose; mother, Maria Mata; children, Jennifer (Martin) Reyes, Monica J Villarreal, Ashley (Derek) Coyle, Samantha (Coy) Barber, and David DuBose II; grandchildren, Emma Coyle, Hannah Coyle, Kade Barber, and Gustaf DuBose; siblings, Mario (Darlyn) Mata, Mary Elsa (Marquette) Fricot, Elizabeth (Dennis Mahoney), Mark (Teri) Mata, and Dina (Richard) Oberman; siblings-in-law, Debbie DuBose, Don DuBose, Janice DuBose, and Pam (Ron) Shoemake; and numerous beloved nieces, nephews, and cousins.
She was preceded in death by her father, Jesus “Chuy” Mata; parents-in-law, Darrell and Evelyn DuBose; and brother-in-law, Darrell “Tinker” DuBose.
Visitation will be held on Monday, June 1, from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM, with a rosary at 7:00 PM, at Primrose Funeral Services in Devine, Texas.
Mass will be celebrated at St. Joseph Catholic Church at 10:00 AM, with interment to follow at St. Joseph Catholic Cemetery in Devine, Texas.
A meal will be provided by the family immediately following the burial at St. Joseph Catholic Church Hall.
The family would like to thank everyone for their prayers, love, and support during this difficult time.
Her memory will be cherished forever by all who knew and loved her.

Norma Alice Calderon, lovingly known by many as “Grandma Alice” and “Grandma Grandma,” passed away on May 15, 2026, at Christus Santa Rosa Hospital in San Antonio, Texas at the age of 89.
Alice was born on August 20, 1937, in Fort Davis, Texas to Jim and Magdalena Hartnett and was the oldest of seven children. In 1950, she moved with her parents and sisters to San Antonio, Texas, where she later graduated from Little Flower Catholic School in 1955.
In 1958, she married Antonio Calderon of Marfa, Texas, and together they built a life centered around faith, family, and service. During Tony’s 23 years in the United States Air Force, Alice proudly served as a military wife, traveling across the country and creating a loving home wherever life took them. Together they raised three daughters: Jeannie Olivares, Elizabeth Vera, and Terri Lerner.
After returning to Texas, Tony and Alice eventually settled in Devine, Texas in 1976, where she spent the past 50 years surrounded by family, ranch life, and generations of grandchildren. She worked for many years in the hotel industry and later became a nanny in Dallas, a role she deeply loved until the birth of her first great-grandchild, Alyssa Cortez, created five living generations in the family.
Alice returned home to help raise and nurture the many grandchildren and great-grandchildren who filled her life with purpose and joy. Her home was always full of laughter, love, stories, and the comforting smell of homemade treats. Christmases will never be the same without the famous baked cookie baskets she lovingly prepared and gifted to everyone she cared for.
She held a deep affection for spending time with her grandchildren and treasured the close bond she shared with her best friend, Melly Haro. Alice was strong, independent, loving, and endlessly devoted to her family. Her kindness and generosity touched all who knew her.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Jim and Magdalena Hartnett; sisters Esther Hartnett and Olivia Fauley; former husband Antonio Calderon; and beloved great-grandson Triese Vera.
Alice leaves behind a legacy of love through her daughters Jeannie Olivarez, Elizabeth Vera, and Terri Lerner; sisters Teresa Hernandez, Arlene Imkin, Sally Gwyn and husband Larry Gwyn; brother Jim “Jimbo” Hartnett and wife Liz Hartnett; along with generations of six grandchildren, twelve great-grandchildren, and seven great-great-grandchildren who will forever cherish her memory.
Though our hearts are heavy with grief, we celebrate a life beautifully lived. Alice’s strength, warmth, laughter, and unconditional love will remain with us always.
Funeral Services will be Friday, May 29, 2026 at Primrose Funeral Home, 303 West College Avenue, Devine, Texas 78016 with a Rosary at 10:00 a.m. and Funeral Service at 10:30 a.m. Procession to St. Joseph’s Cemetery to follow.
Family and friends are invited to attend a luncheon at the Calderon Ranch following the services.

Darlene Hitzfelder Whetstone passed away peacefully on April 28, 2026, at the age of 92.
Born on June 11, 1933, to Alexander Joseph Hitzfelder and Adela (Kauffmann) Hitzfelder, Darlene lived a life centered on family, love, kindness, and quiet strength. She was a devoted daughter, sister, wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother whose gentle spirit touched the lives of everyone who knew her.
Darlene was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Charles Edward Whetstone, who passed away on February 26, 2023. Together they shared a lifetime of love, commitment, and cherished memories. She was also preceded in death by her siblings, Matthew Max Hitzfelder, Marie Virginia Hitzfelder, Alexander Joseph Hitzfelder Jr., and Therese Adella (Hitzfelder) Bendele.
She leaves behind her loving daughters, Becky Jolly (Mark Jolly) and Brenda Whetstone. She was a proud and loving grandmother to Jason Tuttle, Sean Whetstone, Anthony Whetstone, and Geoffrey Hillner, and a treasured great-grandmother to Bradford Andrés Carlson Jolly.
Darlene will be remembered for her warm heart, gentle nature, and unwavering love for her family. She had a special gift for making others feel cared for and welcomed. Whether through a comforting conversation, a shared laugh, or simply her presence, she brought peace and love to those around her.
Her family was her greatest joy, and the memories created with her will forever be held close in their hearts. Though she will be deeply missed, her legacy of love, compassion, and devotion will continue through the generations she leaves behind.
The family takes comfort in knowing that Darlene is now reunited with her beloved husband and family members who went before her. Her memory will forever remain a blessing to all who knew and loved her.

In loving memory of Mary Jane Dennis of San Saba, Texas, who passed away at her home surrounded by family, on May 11, 2026. She was 91years old. Mary Jane brought joy, laughter, and kindness to everyone she met. She was born in Devine, Texas in 1935 to Kathleen (Cox) and Charlie Paine DuBose. She graduated from Devine High School and attended Southwest Texas State Teachers College (STSTC) in San Marcos, Texas, earning a degree in Home Economics Education. While at STSTC, she met the love of her life, George T. Dennis. George knew she was the one the moment he saw her smiling eyes.
Mary Jane and George got married after college in 1956. They lived in Shiner, Yoakum, and San Marcos, Texas before settling down on their little piece of paradise in San Saba in 1964. In 1965, Mary Jane started teaching in San Saba Junior High in Home Economics education. During the summers, since they enjoyed their summers “off”, she and George loaded the kids and picnic foods in the car and headed out for many educational adventures throughout the western United States. She received her kindergarten teaching certification in the early 1970s, and started her 21 years of teaching kindergarten at San Saba Elementary. Many people who attended San Saba Elementary during these years fondly remember the field trip to Mrs. Dennis’ home where they participated in Easter egg hunts, nature walks, picnic lunches, and boat races in the stream. Mary Jane retired in 1995, filling her time with extended education club, serving at the Bend United Methodist church, and spending time with extended family and friends.
Mary Jane will be remembered for her kindness to all, especially children, infectious laughter, sparkling eyes, exquisite sense of humor, enjoyment of sunsets and moon rises, and her care for wildlife and flowers.
She was preceded in death by her parents, her son, Allen Michael Dennis, her brothers W.L., Pat, and Wade DuBose, nephew Leslie DuBose, brothers in-law C.R. Simmons, William Chambers, and Bob Dennis, and sisters in-law Kitty DuBose and Betty Lou Dennis Heath. She is survived by her loving husband, George Dennis, daughter Shannon Dennis (Sydney Minnerly), sister Rena Simmons, sisters in-law Bobbie DuBose and Carolyn Pickett, daughter in-law Nila Stricker, grandsons Christopher (Larina) Dennis and Matthew (Tina) Dennis and great-granddaughter Gwendolyn Rose and her wonderful nieces and nephews.
Visitation will be held at the Blaylock Funeral Home, Sunday, May 17th 2p-4p and services will be held at the Blaylock Funeral Home, Monday, May 18th at 2p with internment to follow at Colony Cemetery. Memorial donations can be made to Bend United Methodist Church, Colony Cemetery Association, or San Saba Friends of Animals.

Raymond Vara, Jr., a lifelong resident of Von Ormy, Texas, passed away on May 16, 2026, at the age of 74.
Born on August 13, 1951 in San Antonio, Texas to Ramon Flores Vara, and Eloisa Garza Vara. A dedicated accountant by profession, he was respected for his diligence, integrity, and thoughtful nature throughout his career. In recent years he was Office Manager at the Martinez de Vara Law Firm in Von Ormy, Texas.
Raymond graduated from Southwest High School and later earned his degree in accountancy from Our Lady of the Lake University in San Antonio. Beyond his professional accomplishments, he was a passionate vexillologist whose fascination with flags reflected his lifelong appreciation for history, culture, and identity. He was also a proud Texan who cherished the traditions and spirit of his home state. He was a jalapeno farmer alongside his father. He was a photography enthusiast with his own personal dark room and learned the art of developing photographs himself. He was always the photographer for family events through the years. He was an animal lover with a big heart. In high school he played the drums and loved all types of music throughout his life.
Raymond valued family, learning, and meaningful conversation. Though he never married, he remained devoted to those closest to him and took great pride in the lives and accomplishments of his family.
He is survived by his sister, Sally Ann Martinez; his niece, Stephanie Brady, and her family, J.D. Brady, Nikita Raylene Brady, Ezra Joshua Brady, and Gavin Ray Brady; his nephew, Art Martinez de Vara and his family, Marina Martinez de Vara, Rebecca Ann Martinez de Vara and Arturo Iñaki Martinez de Vara; his nephew, Jason Sanchez and family; and his niece, Patricia Sanchez.
He was preceded in death by parents, Ramon Flores Vara, and Eloisa Garza Vara, his brother Ricardo Vara, his sister, Elida Dolores Sanchez, brother-in-law, Robert Sanchez, and brother- in-law, Arturo Martinez.
Funeral Services will be held at Sacred Heart of Jesus Catholic Church in Von Ormy, Texas on Friday, May 22, 2026 as follows: 9:00am Visitation for family and friends to gather and visit, 10:00am Rosary, 11:00am Mass will be celebrated with burial to follow in St. Mary’s Catholic Cemetery in Somerset, Texas
Raymond Vara, Jr. will be remembered for his intelligence, independence, love of Texas, and enduring devotion to family and lifelong passions. His memory will remain in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.

Carolyn Beth Korczynski, 80, of Beeville, Texas, passed away peacefully on May 16, 2026.
Beth was born on August 27, 1945, in Beeville to Milton and Ora Uhlig. She spent her life rooted in the community she loved and devoted herself wholeheartedly to her family, friends, and all those whose lives she touched through her kindness and compassion.
She worked for many years as a teacher aide, where she was known for her patience, caring nature, and dedication to helping children. Beth had a gentle spirit and a warm presence that made others feel welcomed and loved.
Beth enjoyed antiquing, reading, and cooking for her family. She especially cherished spending time on the front porch visiting with loved ones and enjoying life’s quiet moments. More than anything, Beth treasured the time she spent with her family, creating memories with her husband, children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.
She is survived by her husband, Joe Korczynski; her children, Lynn (Barrlynn) West, Wes (Rhonda) Korczynski, Matt (Rhonda) Korczynski, and Will (Stacy) Korczynski; eight grandchildren; and thirteen great-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Milton and Ora Uhlig; her grandson, Mathew Korczynski; and her cousin who was like a brother to her, Robert Ford.
Visitation will be held from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Thursday, May 21, 2026, at Galloway & Sons Funeral Home, followed by a Rosary to be recited at 12:30 p.m. at St. Joseph Catholic Church. The funeral service will follow at 1 o’ clock.
Burial will follow at Clareville Cemetery.
Pallbearers will be Wes Korczynski, Matt Korczynski, Will Korczynski, Barrlynn West, Max Korczynski, Joey Korczynski, Josh Korczynski and Tyler Korczynski.
Beth will be remembered for her loving heart, her devotion to family, and the kindness she shared with everyone she met.

Kathleen Chant Barber, often called Kathie by friends and “Kakee” by her family, passed away on May 16, 2026, leaving behind a rich life of faith and love dedicated to God, family and friends.
She is preceded in death by her husband Neil Wayne Barber, her parents Ray and Connie Dee Chant, her sister Connie Richey, and her brother Lonnie Chant. She is survived by her daughter Suzanne Simons and son-in-law Jim, her son Dennis Barber and daughter-in-law Christina, her son Matt Barber and daughter-in-law Jalyn, and her sister Janice, along with 6 grandchildren (Coy, Demarise, Ryan, Kalyn, Ben and Matthew) and 5 great grandchildren (Kade, Ezra, Granger, Waylen, and Carter) plus beloved nieces and nephews.
For over 36 years throughout their married life, Wayne and Kathie Barber owned a number of small businesses in Devine and Natalia where Kathie served as bookkeeper and partner in life and business. A visit to Kathie’s Divine Collections shop was a real treat for lovers of fine china, crystal and home decorations. Kathie was also an expert antique dealer and always in the hunt for treasures.
Known for her style both in fashion and especially interior design, Kathie had a true flare. Starting as president of the Natalia High School Homemakers Association in 1958 to restoring a 1906 Craftsman home to decorating her charming home in the Sun City retirement community of Georgetown, Texas, Kathie created welcoming beauty wherever she was. Kathie was one of a kind and when you walked into her home you immediately felt design, love of family and the presence of a Christian woman.
Kathie made friends everywhere she went and she kept her friendships over the years she knew you, many since first grade. As her friend, Kathie cared about you, celebrating your high points and helping you through your low points. Affectionately called “Kathie Ann” (after Ann Landers advice column), she was quick to serve up Christian love and Southern advice.
Family and friends are welcome to come together to honor Kathie Barber’s life at Primrose Funeral Services in Devine, Texas. Visitation to be held May 26, 2026 from 6:00pm to 8:00pm and funeral service on May 27, 2026 at 10:00am. Interment at Evergreen Cemetery in Devine, Texas immediately after funeral service.

Mary Jane (DuBose) Dennis, 91, of San Saba, TX. passed away peacefully at her home surrounded by her loved ones on May 11, 2026. A visitation will be from 2:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m., Sunday, May 17. A funeral service will be at 2:00 p.m., Monday, May 18, 2026 at Blaylock Funeral Home in San Saba. Interment will follow at Colony Cemetery in Bend, TX. Online condolences can be made at www.blaylockfuneralhome.com

In Memory of Aunt Mary Jane

Another Angel on earth gained her wings on Monday night, May 11, as our dear sweet Aunt Mary Jane Dennis, 91 years old, went to Heaven with the love of her life by her side, Uncle George, and their daughters my cousins Shannon & Sidney and their pet dog Luna aka “Horse”. Family members and friends had been in and out over the past few weeks to help and share their love and memories.
Pauline & Brayden and I were fortunate to get to spend a couple days with them this past weekend.
To watch the love between Mary and George as he helped care for her at her side with his gentle touch and kind words and actions of faith, hope and love was an experience that I was grateful to watch and be a part of and will never forget. Her daughters shared the same love and devotion to her care so she could be in the comforts of her own home right to the end. Devoted to both her needs and wishes and that of Uncle George’s.
George and Mary met in college and have enjoyed over 60 years together. Both devoted their lives to teaching. Mary was a kindergarten teacher for 25 years and earlier taught home economics. George taught high school and college science up until his 80s and even had a Science Building named after him at San Saba High School.
Mary Jane spent many a childhood day at the Devine News office visiting her daddy CP DuBose. She was proud to be the first Homecoming Queen of Devine High School. Her mother Kathleen made her a crown out of a cereal box and aluminum foil, the most beautiful crown ever.
They hosted many a DuBose family reunion at Easter and during the summers. Aunt Mary had a special way of visiting with the little ones, many times on the floor even in her 80s, looking into their eyes and truly listening to their stories, answering their questions, playing games and doing puzzles. A fond memory we all have.
They hosted over 25 years of kindergarten field trips to their home where all the kindergarteners in the school got to float their homemade boats they made at school down the stream, took a walk down the trails and ended with a picnic under the trees. A tradition San Saba graduates remember fondly.
Aunt Mary you will be so missed. I promise we will carry on your traditions, your teachings and your love of family reunions. Love Kay Kay

Kyrie DuBose and Great Aunt Mary Jane Dennis making memories.