Category: Obituaries

Eldon Wayne Brauchle of Charlotte, Texas, passed away at his home place on August 14, 2026, at the age of 87. He was born on February 20, 1939, in San Miguel, Texas, to Stanley and Alma Brauchle. 
Named Mr. CHS by his peers, Eldon graduated from Charlotte High School with the Class of 1957. He went on to earn a Bachelor of Science in Accounting from Trinity University in 1961. After college, he served in the United States Army and was stationed at Fort Hood, Texas, with Company A, 2nd Battalion, 81st Armor, 1st Armored Division—“Old Ironsides”—where he was a tank commander. During his service, Eldon rose to the rank of First Lieutenant, receiving his promotion in May 1963. Following his military service, Eldon returned to South Texas, where he spent much of his life farming and raising Beefmasters. 
He was a co-founder of Mid County Peanuts and spent decades farming peanuts and working the land around Charlotte. Agriculture was more than his livelihood; it was a way of life that he loved and valued deeply. Eldon also had a lifelong interest in hunting, fishing, and wildlife management. When he wasn’t farming, much of his time was spent as an avid outdoorsman, managing the land and habitat and enjoying the wildlife of South Texas and beyond. 
Eldon was married to Susan Forester Brauchle for more than 60 years until her death in 2022. Together, they raised four children and made Charlotte their home. 
He was preceded in death by his wife, Susan Forester Brauchle; his parents, Stanley and Alma Brauchle; and brothers Marlin and Fred Brauchle.
Eldon is survived by his daughters, Kris Summers (Troy), Pamela Brauchle, and Jennifer Kellner (Frank); his son, Tobin Brauchle (Stephanie); his grandchildren, Hayley Summers, Collin, Ryan, Austin, and Owen Skiba, Elise Young (Noah), and Claire Kellner, Logan Chansley, and Wyatt Brauchle; as well as his many nieces and nephews. 
Funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m. on September 17, 2026, at First Baptist Church in Charlotte, Texas. Interment will immediately follow at the Charlotte City Cemetery. 
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to one of the following Atascosa youth scholarships: Atascosa Cattlemen Association Youth Scholarship or the Atascosa Merit Scholarship P.O. Box 379 Leming, Texas 78050 

John Young Stewart, Sr., a lifelong rancher, steward of the land, and devoted family man, passed into eternity on August 21, 2026, at the age of 87, leaving behind a legacy grounded in faith, responsibility, and quiet strength. Named after both his great-grandfather and a great-uncle, John carried a name shaped by generations, and he honored it well.
He was born on July 26, 1939, on the W.A. Stewart Ranch in Barksdale, Texas, during a historic flood of the Nueces River. From the beginning, his life was marked by the rugged demands and enduring beauty of the Texas Hill Country. As the oldest of six children born to C.C. and Corrinne Stewart, John learned responsibility early. Ranch life was simple but demanding, and electricity did not reach the ranch until 1954. Though the family had little by way of material wealth, his parents instilled in him the strength, resilience, and faith that he would carry throughout his life.
John’s childhood was shaped by daily work and a deep connection to the land. He helped raise Delaine and Rambouillet sheep, Angora goats, and Hereford and crossbred cattle. When drought forced the family to adapt, they introduced Brahman cattle, an early lesson in resilience and innovation that John carried throughout his life.
His interest in agriculture grew during high school under the mentorship of agriculture teachers Joe Trees and A.L. Newman. Through Future Farmers of America, he showed sheep and Hereford cattle at major stock shows, including the San Antonio Livestock Exposition and the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo. In 1959, he was awarded the American Farmer Degree at the National FFA Convention in Kansas City, Missouri.
Outside of his responsibilities, John enjoyed listening to Elvis Presley on the AM radio and spent Saturday nights square dancing with family. In school, he was active in athletics, playing basketball, baseball, and football. The summer before his senior year, he got his first pickup, a 1955 Chevrolet half-ton, a hard-earned symbol of independence and pride.
After graduating high school in 1957, John attended Southwest Texas Junior College in Uvalde, where he met Elizabeth Louise Hinkel, known to everyone as Betty, on a dare that would become a lifelong partnership. Both later transferred to Texas A&I College in Kingsville, Texas, where John completed his degree in 1961. On June 3, 1961, he and Betty were married in Cotulla, Texas, beginning a marriage that would span 65 years.
John began his career as an agriculture teacher at Edcouch-Elsa High School in the Rio Grande Valley, where he taught for two and a half years. Though he valued teaching, he felt called back to the land and returned to ranching full-time in 1964 with Cox Cattle Company in Devine, Texas. It was there that he met Sterling C. Evans, a respected Texas banker and cattleman who recognized John’s character and potential.
In 1967, Mr. Evans entrusted John with managing his extensive ranching operations, responsibilities that would take him and his family across multiple states and place him in charge of land and operations few ever experience. In southern New Mexico, he oversaw a 152,000-acre ranch stretching across rugged country with more than 80 miles of barbed wire fencing. He later managed another 148,000-acre ranch near Clines Corner, New Mexico, before moving to Louisiana to oversee the Little Eva Plantation, a 13,000-acre operation that included 4,000 acres of pecan trees.
In 1977, Mr. Evans moved John and his family one more time to manage the U Bar Ranch in western Bexar County, Texas. In 1982, the ranch was purchased by H.B. “Pat” Zachry, a renowned engineer and construction magnate. John continued in his role, working for the Zachry family and managing the ranch until his retirement in 2011 with the same dedication and integrity that defined his entire career.
For 50 years, John was a widely respected ranch manager and agricultural leader. He entered roles he had never held before and mastered them through determination, humility, and a willingness to learn. He did not rely on titles or credentials, but on steady effort, sound judgment, and an unshakable work ethic. Over time, through observation and experience, he developed a practiced eye and deep knowledge of the land and livestock, becoming known for his ability to select excellent horses and cattle and to grow top-quality pecans, hay, and row crops. Those who knew him understood that no matter the size or scope of the task, John would find a way to get it done—and get it done right.
John and Betty also shared a deep commitment to investing in others. Together, they devoted their time to Bexar County 4-H, the Bexar County Junior Livestock Show, and the San Antonio Livestock Exposition, where both were lifetime members and served on the Horse Show Committee. Side by side, they encouraged young people, supported families, and passed on a love for agriculture that had shaped their own lives.
Following retirement, John and Betty settled on a small property south of Lytle, Texas, where they enjoyed a quieter pace of life while remaining closely connected to their family and community. Whether a friend, neighbor, or someone he had just met, John had a natural way of connecting with people and putting them at ease, and many came to lovingly call him dad or grandpa.
Faith played a central role in John’s life. In 1986, he and Betty were instrumental in founding Medina Valley United Methodist Church in Castroville, Texas. Their commitment to the church remained steadfast from its beginning, reflecting their devotion to both God and community.
John’s greatest pride was his family, especially his wife, Betty. As a husband, he was steady and devoted; she could depend on him to lead, to provide, and to build a life for their family, no matter the uncertainty ahead. As a father, he led by example, showing his sons the value of hard work, responsibility, and loyalty. He regarded his daughters-in-law as his own, treating them with the same respect and care. As a grandfather and great-grandfather, he was steady and present, taking a quiet interest in each of them and finding joy in watching them grow. He was not a man of many words, but his expectations were clear, and his actions spoke for themselves.
He is survived by his beloved wife, Elizabeth “Betty” Hinkel Stewart; his sons, John (Lexie) Stewart, Jr., Brett (Laura) Stewart, Doak (Angie) Stewart, and Royce Stewart; his grandchildren, John Stewart III, Alex (Madison) Stewart, Charles Stewart, Benjamin Stewart, Emily (Andrew) Jones, Samuel Stewart, and Joel (Hailey) Stewart; and his great-grandchildren, William Stewart, Gwendolyn Stewart, Lorelai Stewart, Hayeden Stewart, and Raelynn Jones. He is also survived by his brothers, Robert (Rae) Stewart and Paul (Neilia) Stewart, and his sisters, Carol Ann McKelvain, Pamela Kruse, and Paula (John) Cowart, as well as numerous nieces, nephews, grand-nieces, and grand-nephews.
In his later years, John faced serious illness with the same quiet strength that marked his life, outliving expectations while continuing to invest in those around him. His life stands as a testament to hard work, humility, and unwavering faith. From the floodwaters that marked his birth to the pastures and livestock he carefully tended, he lived with purpose—shaping the land, his family, and the lives of all who were blessed to know him.
Visitation will be Wednesday, September 2, 2026 from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Tondre-Guinn Funeral Home, Castroville. The Funeral Service will be at 10:00 a.m. on Thursday, September 3, 2026 at the Medina Valley United Methodist Church, Castroville. A Graveside Service will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Friday, September, 4, 2026 at Cotulla City Cemetery, Cotulla, Texas.
In honor of John, donations may be made to the Medina Valley United Methodist Church at P.O. Box 1607, Castroville, TX 78009, Cowboys for Christ at P.O. Box 7557, Fort Worth, TX 76111, or the charity of one’s choice.
Arrangements by Tondre-Guinn Funeral Home. www.tondre-guinn.com

Margarita “Margie” R. Gutierrez was born on March 2, 1949, in Natalia, Texas. Margie was born to Policarpio and Petra Gutierrez. Margie and her husband, Andy, resided in Natalia, Texas.
Preceded in death by her parents and three of her siblings: Maria Concepcion (Concha) Sanchez; Reyes (Ray) Gutierrez, and Eduardo Gutierrez.
Margie is survived by her husband of over fifty years Andy Ybarra, daughter Marivel (Felipe Camacho), son Eric (Veronica) and one granddaughter Alyssa Ybarra. Survivors also include her sisters: Rita Thompson, Lupe Reyes, Olga Torres, Laly Rico, and Mary Estrada; brothers Juan Gutierrez (Elvira) and Joe Gutierrez, numerous nieces and nephews.
Visitation will be held on Monday, August 24, 2026, from 5:00 P.M. until 9:00 P.M. at Primrose Funeral Services of Devine, Texas. Funeral Service will be held on Tuesday, August 25, 2026, at 10:00 A.M. at First Baptist Church of Natalia, Texas with interment to follow at Evergreen Cemetery in 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.

Rodolfo “Rudy” J. Torres, a beloved father, friend, and devoted sports enthusiast, entered eternal rest on Saturday, August 15, 2026, at the age of 78. Born on June 13, 1948, in Evanston, IL, Rudy was the cherished son of Martin L. and Rita Juarez Torres.
Rudy’s passion for sports was undeniable, as he proudly wore the colors of his beloved Dallas Cowboys every day and the Chicago Cubs during baseball season. His infectious spirit and love for life resonated with everyone he met, forging friendships that spanned a lifetime. Friends shared comments that he was a friend to many, a great guy, a hard worker, and the sweetest person with a warm spirit.
Growing up with the nicknames “Corona” and “Coyotito,” Rudy embraced hard work from a young age. He began his journey as a migrant worker in his preteen years, moving on to a successful 45-year career as a concrete finisher while working an impressive 63 years of hard labor. He embodied the values of determination and perseverance, earning him the respect and admiration of his peers and community.
Rudy is survived by his loving children, son Darrell Torres; daughters Carrie De Los Santos and husband Pete; Rita Garcia and husband George; mother of his children and longtime friend Odelia Campos Torres; brother Estanislado “Tony” Torres; brother-in-law Macedonia Martinez; Sister-in-law Bertha Campos Garcia; seven grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren; many nieces, nephews, cousins, and close friends.
He is preceded in death by his parents; brother Ruben Torres; sister Juanita Torres Gonzales; brother Martin Torres, Jr.; brother-in-laws Valdemar Campos, Ramon Campos, Manuel “Meme” Campos; sister-in-law Soyla Campos Martinez.
Visitation will be held on Wednesday, August 19, 2026, from 5:00 P.M. until 9:00 P.M. with a Rosary recited at 7:00 P.M. at Primrose Funeral Services of Devine. Mass will be held on Thursday, August 20, 2026, at 10:00 A.M. at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church with interment to follow in St. Joseph’s Catholic Cemetery.
Pallbearers: Harley Garcia, Riley Torres, Oscar Torres, Frazier Gonzales, David Martinez, Mace Martinez, Gerald Martinez, and John Martinez.
In this moment of loss, we choose to celebrate the beautiful memories, laughter, and love that Rudy brought to our lives. May he rest in eternal peace, and may his spirit continue to shine brightly in our hearts.
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.

Albert Joseph King, 89, of Devine, TX passed away on August 1, 2026. He was born in Hondo, TX on July 25, 1937 to William & Elizabeth (Weiss) King.
He attended the Shook School in Devine, TX before transferring to St. Louis Catholic School in Castroville, TX where he graduated in 1957. He briefly worked at Sammy’s Restaurant in Castroville before joining the Air Force in October of 1957 where he proudly served for 28 years, retiring in 1985 from Randolph AFB. He liked to say he almost traveled around the world through his multiple transfers and TDY’s.
After retirement he moved back to Devine, TX sharing a fence line with the original family farm on his little piece of land that he called Oasis. He would do odd jobs for neighbors to keep busy and loved working in his garden and maintaining his pecan and peach trees. He was an avid woodworker and called himself the Wood Wacker. He loved to tinker and could pretty much fix anything he put his mind to. He taught Sunday School at St. Louis for several years and was a very active member of the American Legion Post 460 in Castroville, that is named after his uncle Joseph Weiss. He later raised goats and chickens and very much-loved being outdoors. His greatest joy in his life however was his family and every moment with them was cherished.
He is survived by his wife of 60 years Monica King of Devine, their daughter Katherine Hacker and husband Jody of Devine, grandson Michael King Hacker and wife Anna of Devine, granddaughter Jessica Hacker of Devine, and four great grandsons, the oldest being his namesake Waylon Albert King Hacker, Hutsyn Hacker, Austin Hacker, and Colten Hacker, all of Devine. He is also survived by his older sister BettyLou Lewis of Maryland and his younger brother Bryan King of Devine.
He was a faithful man that loved God, his country and his family.
A special thank you to his hospice nurse, Margie, who was an angel in a nurse’s uniform. Her care and dedication to our family cannot be measured in words. We will forever be grateful.
Visitation will be Thursday, August 13, 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 Friday, August 14, 2026 at St. Louis Catholic Church. Interment with Full Military Honors will follow at St. Louis Catholic Cemetery in Castroville, Texas.
Memorials may be made in Albert’s memory to the charity of your choice.
Arrangements by Tondre-Guinn Funeral Home. www.tondre-guinn.com

Our beloved husband, father and grandfather passed away peacefully at home in New Braunfels, TX, on August 1, 2026. Kenneth was born in Devine, Texas on August 27, 1950 to Coy and Neta Wells. He was the youngest of three children. He grew up in Devine, attended Devine High School, and always called Devine home.
Over the course of his life, Kenneth made his career as a San Antonio Police Officer. After retiring from SAPD, Kenneth branched out as a DJ -musician, owned his own construction company, and was a salesman for the Devine News.
What defined Kenneth’s life was the love and devotion for his wife, children, grandchildren, and all his family and friends. We are grateful for the time and numerous memories we made with him.
He is preceded in death by his parents, Coy F. Wells and Martha O’Neta Wells: his brother Richard Wells and sister Martha Wells Barnhill.
He is survived by his wife Terri of New Braunfels, TX, his son Jake Wells and wife Melissa of Ruston, LA., daughters Katrina Wells of Granbury, TX., Kelly Wells – Wicks and husband Myron of Coolville, Ohio, Haylee Wells and fiancé Aaron DeLuna-Miller of Windsor, CO, and Karlee Wells-Lopez and husband Adrian of Greeley, CO. He has fifteen grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews.
Celebration of life will be held on Saturday, August 8, 2026, at the Devine Community Center at 11:00 a.m. Address: 200 East Hondo Ave, Devine, TX. 78016.

Albert Joseph King, 89, of Devine, TX passed away on August 1, 2026. He was born in Hondo, TX on July 25, 1937 to William & Elizabeth (Weiss) King.
He attended the Shook School in Devine, TX before transferring to St. Louis Catholic School in Castroville, TX where he graduated in 1957. He briefly worked at Sammy’s Restaurant in Castroville before joining the Air Force in October of 1957 where he proudly served for 28 years, retiring in 1985 from Randolph AFB. He liked to say he almost traveled around the world through his multiple transfers and TDY’s.
After retirement he moved back to Devine, TX sharing a fence line with the original family farm on his little piece of land that he called Oasis. He would do odd jobs for neighbors to keep busy and loved working in his garden and maintaining his pecan and peach trees. He was an avid woodworker and called himself the Wood Wacker. He loved to tinker and could pretty much fix anything he put his mind to. He taught Sunday School at St. Louis for several years and was a very active member of the American Legion Post 460 in Castroville, that is named after his uncle Joseph Weiss. He later raised goats and chickens and very much-loved being outdoors. His greatest joy in his life however was his family and every moment with them was cherished.
He is survived by his wife of 60 years Monica King of Devine, their daughter Katherine Hacker and husband Jody of Devine, grandson Michael King Hacker and wife Anna of Devine, granddaughter Jessica Hacker of Devine, and four great grandsons, the oldest being his namesake Waylon Albert King Hacker, Hutsyn Hacker, Austin Hacker, and Colten Hacker, all of Devine. He is also survived by his older sister BettyLou Lewis of Maryland and his younger brother Bryan King of Devine.
He was a faithful man that loved God, his country and his family.
A special thank you to his hospice nurse, Margie, who was an angel in a nurse’s uniform. Her care and dedication to our family cannot be measured in words. We will forever be grateful.
Visitation will be Thursday, August 13, 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 Friday, August 14, 2026 at St. Louis Catholic Church. Interment with Full Military Honors will follow at St. Louis Catholic Cemetery in Castroville, Texas.
Memorials may be made in Albert’s memory to the charity of your choice.
Arrangements by Tondre-Guinn Funeral Home. www.tondre-guinn.com

Nelda Dannelly, age 95, passed peacefully into the arms of her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ 8-1-26. She is now in full glory, reunited with her beloved husband and with the great cloud of witnesses testifying to the holiness of Jesus for all eternity.
Nelda was born in Lytton Springs, Texas. She graduated from Lockhart High School and Southwest Texas State Teachers College. She lived a life marked by unwavering faith, quiet strength, and a love that touched everyone who knew her. Her favorite role in life was “Granny”. Her love for her grandchildren was unconditional. Her fifteen great-grandchildren brought her immeasurable joy.
Nelda is preceded in death by her loving husband, Thomas E. Dannelly and her parents, Alton and Maxine Gomillion. She is survived by her son, Phillip Dannelly; daughter, Phyllis Redus; son-in law Clifford Redus, her grandchildren; Christopher Redus, Justin Redus, Marcus Espinoza, Thomas Dannelly, and Maxine Barney.
Nelda dearly loved the Lord, her family, her friends and her church family at Devine Wesleyan Fellowship and Devine Christian Church.
A celebration of her life will be held at Old Lytton Springs Church, Lytton Springs, Texas on Wednesday, August 5, 2026 at 10am. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to The Gideons International in her memory.
“Well done, good and faithful servant.” — Matthew 25:23
Services in the care of McCurdy Funeral Home. Please sign the guestbook at www.mccurdyfuneralhome.com.

Manuel F. “Meme” Campos, a loving brother, cherished uncle, and devoted friend, passed away peacefully on July 14, 2026, at the age of 84, surrounded by the warmth of his family and friends. Born on January 13, 1942, in Big Wells, Texas, Manuel lived a remarkable life marked by kindness, generosity, and a deep love for those around him.
A proud Air Force veteran, Manuel served his country with honor and dedication. He later worked and retired from J.I. Case Company in Rockford, Illinois, he embraced a life rich with family, friendship, and community. He would often help others by offering a warm meal or bed, he truly gave from his heart. He was a simple man with a profound love for fishing, traveling, and cheering on his beloved Redskins football team. “Meme” was known for his warm heart and the personal nicknames he lovingly crafted for each of his nieces and nephews.
Manuel found joy in the simple pleasures of life, often spending his afternoons at the community center in Devine, where he relished in people-watching and catching up on the news over a newspaper. His welcoming spirit drew friends and acquaintances alike, who would often stop to share a kind word or a hearty laugh.
He is preceded in death by his parents, Agapito and Maria Elena Campos, along with his siblings Soyla Campos Martinez, Valdemar Campos, and Ramon Campos. Left to honor his memory are his loving sons, Jimmy and Randy Kristek; sisters, Odelia Torres and Bertha Garcia, brother-in-law, Macedonio Martinez; as well as a multitude of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends who were blessed to know his gentle spirit.
Pallbearers: Vincent Campos, Darrell Torres, Jonathan Campos, Rene Campos, Reyes David Leal, David Martinez, John Martinez, Mace Martinez.
Honorary Pallbearers: Jimmy and Randy Kristek.
Visitation will be held on Tuesday, July 21, 2026, from 5:00 PM until 9:00 PM with a Rosary recited at 7:00 PM at Primrose Funeral Services of Devine. Mass will be celebrated on Wednesday, July 22, 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, Texas 78016, (830) 663-4445.
In honoring Manuel’s life, we reflect on a man who embodied love and care for others, and whose legacy will continue to inspire those he left behind. He will be dearly missed but forever remembered.

Card of Thanks
Thank you to everyone for the kind words, prayers, visitations, food, flowers, and all of the help. Thank you to each and every one of you on behalf of our beloved brother Manuel (Meme) Campos.
Sincerely, OdeliaTorres and Bertha Garcia and family

Jesus “Chuy” Gomez passed away, leaving behind a life of quiet strength and humble service.
Sorry for the delay. Thank you so very Much!
Chuy proudly served his Country as a Corporal in the United States Marine Corps during the Vietnam War. He served honorably in combat and was awarded the Purple Heart, Combat Action Ribbon, and other military honors. Like many Marines of his generation, he carried the weight of war without asking for recognition.
To many, he was simply the quiet man walking through town. To those who knew his story, he was a Marine who had already faced battles most could never imagine. Music was also a part of who he was. He found peace in playing the guitar.
His watch is over. His burdens are gone. He is finally free.
Semper Fidelis
Visitation will be held on Thursday, August 6, 2026, from 6:00 P.M. until 9:00 P.M. at Primrose Funeral Services of Devine, Texas. Interment will be held on Friday, August 7, 2026, at 10:00 A.M. in St. Joseph’s Catholic Cemetery in Devine, Texas, with US Marine Military Funeral Honors.