Category: Obituaries

Celebrating the lives of the loved ones we’ve lost

Pedro G. Sanchez

Pedro G. Sanchez, affectionately known as Pete, passed away in Natalia, Texas on the early morning of October 23, 2023. Surrounded by his loved ones, his passing was peaceful, a testament to the profound love and care he drew from all those who loved him. Born on April 29, 1947, in Natalia, Pete touched countless lives throughout his life.

Pete attended Natalia High School and graduated with the Class of 1968. He embarked on a career in the grocery and hardware business in Natalia, Lytle, Devine, and Somerset, Texas. For numerous years, Pete dedicated himself to serving his community through these ventures. In 2013, after 10 years of service, Pete transitioned into retirement from Palo Alto Community College with gratitude and fond memories of the friendships forged throughout his career.

While Pete had many accomplishments to be proud of, it was often said that his true joy found its roots outside of the workplace. As a devoted family man and friend to all who knew him, Pete found solace and contentment in simple pleasures. He enjoyed barbequing and took great delight sharing it with his loved ones. Pete also enjoyed managing softball teams and you could find him at Castillo’s Ice House. Pete enjoyed hanging out after church with his friends.

Pete’s warm heart and humble nature endeared him to many. Whether it was an old friend or a stranger in need, he always extended a helping hand and offered support without hesitation. It was this admirable trait that made Pete an extraordinary individual and a beloved member of his community.

His involvement in the Knights of Columbus and Men’s Club at St. John Bosco Church showcased Pete’s commitment to nurturing his faith and serving those around him.

In his lifetime, Pete was blessed with a loving family who will forever cherish the precious moments shared together. He leaves behind his wife Guadalupe Sanchez, who stood by his side offering unwavering love and support. His children Carmen Loza (Jesse Loza), Roberto Hernandez (Nora Hernandez), Connie Guajardo (Carlos Guajardo), Sonia Hernandez (Greg Hernandez), and PJ Sanchez (Amanda Sanchez), and brother Robert Sanchez hold dear memories of their father that will be treasured for generations to come. Among those who mourn Pete’s loss are also his grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Pete is preceded in death by his mother Angelita Sanchez, father Manuel Sanchez, brother Juvencio Sanchez, brother Juan Sanchez, brother Juaquin Sanchez, sister Estella Sanchez, daughter Cindy Ortiz and grandson Derek Hernandez.

Relatives and friends are invited to pay their respects during the visitation at St. John Bosco Catholic Church in Natalia on October 26th, 2023 from 5:00 pm until 9:00 pm. A Mass will be held at St. John Bosco Catholic Church on October 27th, 2023, starting at 10:00 am. Following the Mass, Pete will be laid to rest at St. Joseph’s Catholic Cemetery in Devine at 11:00 am.

Edwin “Eddie” William Hutzler

Edwin “Eddie” William Hutzler, 84,  was born at home on the Hutzler Farm at midnight on the 12th with a birth date noted as November 13,1938 born to Albert and Katie (Schneider) Hutzler of Devine. He was peacefully called home to his Lord on Sunday, October 22, 2023. He lived a long full life, a rugged one, but loved every minute of it. Up until he had to go to a nursing home to retire and heal he was cruising the streets of Devine on night watchman patrol in his wheelchair scooter which he treated like a four wheeler, but luckily buddy Joe could fix anything. God and the Angels kept watch over him, and everyone driving through town, as he motored the streets day and night with several close calls. The first visitation will be held on Monday October 30th from 2-5:30 pm at Primrose.

Continue reading “Edwin “Eddie” William Hutzler”

Evelyn Byrd

(07/09/1951 – 10/09/2023)

Evelyn Byrd, “Miss Byrdie” a beloved wife, mother, and friend, passed away peacefully on October 9, 2023, surrounded by her loving family. Born on July 9, 1951, in Poteet, TX, Evelyn lived a life full of love, joy, and cherished moments. Her warm spirit and kind heart will be deeply missed by all who knew her.
Evelyn is joined in heaven by her son, Keith, her parents, her sister and countless friends and family members. She is survived by her husband of 53 years, Richard Byrd, her daughter, Tammy Williams and her husband Rickey, grandsons Nick and his wife, Sara and their children, Walker, Kip and Heidi, Blake and his wife, Erin and her youngest grandson, Greyson. The titles of Little Granny, Aunt Byrdie and Miss Byrdie were her greatest joys.

Continue reading “Evelyn Byrd”

Gilbert A. “Pete” Clawson

Gilbert A. “Pete” Clawson age 88 of Devine, Texas went to be with the Lord on October 9, 2023. He was born in Austin, Texas and made his life in Devine where he was a Master Carpenter and for many years and owned his own construction company. He has worked on many of the buildings and homes in the Devine and surrounding areas. He also loved to hunt and fish and taught his daughters to as well.

Continue reading “Gilbert A. “Pete” Clawson”

Steven Cordova

January 26, 1983 ~ October 9, 2015

You never said I’m leaving,
You never said Goodbye,
You were gone before we knew it
And only God knows why,
In life we loved you dearly
In death we love you still,
In our hearts we hold a place
That only you can fill
It broke our heart to lose you
But you did not go alone, a part
of us went with you the day
God called you home.

Your Loving Parents and Family.

Lance Wayne Smyth

Lance Wayne Smyth was born December 3rd, 1975, in Uvalde, Texas, and passed away on September 18, 2023 in Zavala County at the age of 47.
He was raised in Dilley, Texas, and graduated from high school there, but he spent much of his life in Uvalde. In line with family tradition and following in his father’s footsteps, Lance worked most his life as a Land Surveyor.
He married Jaclyn Hall in 2000 and later that year his only child was born, Trevor Smyth, who became more than just a son, but a best friend and confidant.
Growing up from a young boy, into becoming an adult and parent, Lance did not always follow the rules of life. This made his path difficult at times but all the more beautiful and unique.
Lance lived a life that could be characterized as both humble and extraordinary. You could find him in the field Surveying, exploring the beaches with family, navigating rivers and waterways with friends, or spinning tales with a fellow traveler on the back roads. He was a guaranteed good time.
One remarkable trait was Lance’s repertoire of practical knowledge. A reliable guide on any topic; from mechanics, plants, and animals, to the concerns of the soul, scripture, and the nature of man, Lance’s depth knew no bounds.
Though on Earth his death seems untimely, Lance’s unwavering faith and his profound relationship with God, gives solace that his eternal life is in good hands.
It is a comfort that Lance will be joining his beloved father, whom he held dear in life, D.G. Smyth of Uvalde. Also preceding him in death was his step-father, Kevin Dunn of Dilley.
His memory will be cherished by those who survive him; his son, Trevor Smyth of Boston, his mother, Marilyn Dunn of Dilley, his brother, Tres Smyth of Dilley, his sisters; Shari Caton of Wimberley, Julie Miller of Austin, Shannon Brotherton of San Marcos; and also Trevor’s mother, Jaclyn Smyth of Devine, as well as numerous cousins, nephews, nieces, and friends.
Funeral services will be held at the St. Philip’s Episcopal Church in Uvalde on Thursday, September 28, 2023 at 10:00 A.M.