Stefanie Maria Vera, age 68 of Devine, Texas entered eternal rest on Wednesday, June 21, 2023. She was born on November 28, 1954, to parents Domingo and Maria Hernandez Vera in Devine, Texas. She is preceded in death by her parents, brothers Tim H. Vera, Vicente Vera, Jesus Vera, Esmeregildo Vera, Josesito Vera, Domingo Vera, Jr., sisters Lorenza Martinez, Cecilia Hernandez. Stefanie is survived by her brother, Albino Vera, sisters Marcy Jay, Josephina Salinas, Miquelia Castillo, Romalda Vera, Lupe Moore, nephews and nieces, Anthony Vera, Joshua Vera, John Vera, John Moore, Gabriel Rene Vera, Alfonso Vera, Alvino Vera, Jr., Frankie Salinas, Lupe Vera, Vanessa Vera, Adela Moore, Connie Salinas, Mary Salinas, Elena Salinas. Visitation will be held on Wednesday, June 28, 2023, 8:00 A.M. Primrose Funeral Services Chapel Devine, Texas. Rosary will be held on Wednesday, June 28, 2023, 9:00 A.M. with Mass to begin at 10:00 A.M. St. Joseph’s Catholic Church Devine, Texas with interment to follow at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church. Anyone wishing to leave condolences, share memories, or sign the online guestbook may do so at www.primrosefuneralservices.com Arrangements are under the direction of Primrose Funeral Services, 303 W. College Ave., Devine, Texas, 78016, (830) 663-4445.
Jerry Gray Jones was called to his eternal home June 26, 2023, fifty-six days after losing the love of his life, Lou Ann. Since her passing, he longed for the time that they would be together again. Jerry was born March 26, 1933 to Sam and Elsie Jones in San Antonio, TX. He graduated from Devine High School in 1950 and married Lou Ann Montgomery on May 29, 1955. They were married for almost 68 years and were blessed with four children. After graduating high school, Jerry enlisted in the United State Air Force during the Korean War and served his country as a radar specialist from 1950 to 1954. After marrying Lou Ann, Jerry worked Civil Service and was later called into the ministry and pastored several churches throughout South Texas. As a pastor, Jerry enjoyed sharing the gospel with others at every opportunity. He was always available, day or night, whenever there was a need in the congregation or community. Jerry loved deer hunting, traveling with Lou Ann and camping in their RV, spending time with the grandchildren, and family get togethers. In 2018, Jerry and Lou Ann moved to Kingwood to live with their youngest daughter Betty and her husband Todd. He spent his final years there and enjoyed watching westerns on TV and spending time with 3 of his great grandchildren, Caleb, Hannah, and Molly. The family would like to express their gratitude to Susan Finley for giving up so much to care for both Jerry and Lou Ann and being a good friend to them. We are forever grateful for the loving care she gave them. Jerry was preceded in death by his wife, Lou Ann, his parents, Sam and Elsie Jones, brothers Edwin Jones, Thomas Jones, and Romie Jones, sisters Cleo Wheeler, Shirley Johnson, and Cherry Jones. He is survived by his brother David Maurice Jones, sister-in-law Mildred Jones, children Johnny (Karen) Jones, Carol (Mike) Newbery, Kathy (Kirby) Haertner, Betty (Todd) Rogers, grandchildren, David (Natasha) Jones, Jessica (David) Bonnet, Joey (Leslie) Newberry, Jennifer (Jason) Moseley, Amanda (Ryan) Meegan, Emily (Justin) Robinson, Bradley (Stephanie) Rogers, and Erin Flowers, 14 great grandchildren and 3 great-great grandchildren. A funeral service will be held at 10 AM on June 30th at Primrose Funeral Home in Devine, Texas. A visitation will be held preceding the funeral beginning at 8 AM. Interment will be at the Tomerlin Cemetery.
Thomas (Tommy) David Johnson, 71, of El Campo, peacefully passed away on June 19, 2023. He was born on December 15, 1951, to Cleo Nelvin Johnson and Helen Fern Ellis Johnson. He grew up in and around Lytle, Texas with his parents and sister Sue. After graduating high school in Lytle, Texas, he went on to play football on scholarship at New Mexico University, and then at San Angelo State. He went to work at the Texas State Penitentiary at Huntsville, and then enjoyed a successful career in sales as a manufacturer’s representative with several companies, capping off his career at Team Associates in Houston. He married Mary Helen McDonald in 1979 and had their son Hunter Thomas Johnson in 1986. Tommy and Mary enjoyed hunting together and bringing Hunter on countless road trips. During that time, he also built many friendships in El Campo. After Mary passed away, Tommy and Hunter spent several years in Houston before moving to El Campo in 2000. Soon thereafter, Tommy met Mary Williamson and they were married in 2005. Tommy was an avid hunter, enjoying numerous hunting trips throughout his life across the United States, Canada, and Bolivia. He loved many other outdoor activities, including fishing across the world and at his “honey hole” on the bay. He especially enjoyed spending time at the San Miguel with his family and friends. Tommy was great at the things he loved. He was an excellent gardener, and anyone who knew him loved his tomatoes. One of his greatest gifts was his ability to tell a story. But in recent years, when Tommy became a grandfather, he found his greatest joy – his grandkids. Tommy is preceded in death by his parents Cleo and Fern Ellis Johnson and his first wife Mary McDonald Johnson. He is survived by his wife Mary Williamson Johnson; son, Hunter Johnson and wife Elizabeth, and children James, Henry, and Catherine; daughter Laura Williamson Duncan and husband Tyson, and their children Tyson Dove and Mary Margaret; daughter Sarah Williamson Burden and husband Michael, and their children Ila and Harrell; son Thomas Williamson; and sister Cleo Sue Johnson Huntsman and husband Emet (Buster) Huntsman. Viewing will be 1 p.m. to 2 p.m. Friday, June 23, 2023 at First Presbyterian Church, El Campo, followed by the Funeral Service with Rev. Dr. Erin McGee officiating. Graveside services will be 2 p.m. Saturday, June 24, 2023, at the Lytle Masonic Cemetery in Lytle, Texas. Pallbearers are Miltie McDonald Devin, Sean Huntsman, Shelley Huntsman Jones, Jay McDonald, Robert “Chico” McDonald, Touchstone McDonald, Zach Montello, Christopher Raun, Paul Schnake, Brooks Ware, Ryan Ware, and Andrew Webster. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the American Transplant Foundation or Ronald McDonald House. Triska Funeral Home, El Campo,TX, 979-543-3681
July 14, 1934 – June 18, 2023 Peggy Montgomery, a loving wife, mother, grandmother, great grandmother, sister, and friend went to be with the Lord on June 18, 2023, at the age of 88. Peggy was born on July 14, 1934, to Eugene and Nina Whorton in San Antonio, Texas. Peggy is preceded in death by her beloved daughter Teri Lynn Montgomery; both her parents and sister Evelyn McBee. Peggy will be missed by many including her loving children Tammy McDaniel (Michael), Timothy Montgomery (Vaña), Randy Montgomery (Tammye), Ronald Montgomery (Melissa); sister Patsy Henager (Thomas) as well as 10 grandchildren and 11 great grandchildren.
Elmer Dale Stehle, age 72 of Leakey, Texas, entered eternal rest on Saturday, June 24, 2023. He was born on March 26, 1951, to parents, Elmer Phillip and Mary Eunice DuBose Stehle in Hondo, Texas. Elmer is preceded in death by his parents, Elmer Phillip Stehle and Mary Eunice DuBose Stehle. He is survived by his children Troy Stehle, Traci Blackman and husband Brent, Phillip Stehle and wife Krystal, Tyla Stehle, Jessica Gutierrez and husband Matt, grandchildren Korin Ricord and husband Dillon, Alissa Stehle, Gabi Blackman, Karissa Stehle, Cayden De La Cruz, Ty Stehle, Ryan Gutierrez, Kalli Stehle and Sadie Gutierrez, siblings Lynda Johnston, Cindy Kendrick and husband Randall, numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. Dale was blessed by his nine grandchildren. He loved spending time with them and was extremely proud of each of them. Dale spent his life in Devine where he served as a Texas State Trooper, and then Constable. After he retired, he enjoyed his hill country life in Leakey, Texas. Dale loved Devine and the surrounding communities. He loved his work, and he loved sports. You could always catch him at a softball or football game telling stories and sharing words of wisdom. He also had a love for coon hunting in his younger years. We know he has touched many lives and leaves behind many fond memories for many friends and family. We thank you for your thoughts and prayers. Services are pending at this time. In lieu of flowers, you can make donations to the Medina County Sheriff’s Brown Santa. Please send donations to: 801 Avenue Y, Hondo, TX 78862, In Care of Cara Thomas Anyone wishing to leave condolences, share memories, or sign the online guestbook may do so at www.primrosefuneralservices.com. Arrangements are under the direction of Primrose Funeral Services, 303 W. College Ave., Devine, Texas 78016, (830) 663-4445.
Rex Mayhew, 82, of Lytle, peacefully, passed away at his home, on June 20, 2023. He was born on March 15, 1941, to Guy and Juanita Mayhew in Edinburg, Texas. Rex moved to Lytle at the age of 6, when his father established what is known as Mayhew Farms. Rex graduated from Lytle High School, and Southwest Texas State in San Marcos. He married the love of his life, Phyllis Ann, in 1962, and shortly thereafter had their daughter Terri in 1963. They loved to travel and explore new places. They especially enjoyed the snow country of Colorado, Montana, and Wyoming, spending weeks at a time driving to these beautiful destinations. Rex was an avid outdoorsman, he loved to farm and hunt, enjoying numerous hunting trips across the United States and British Columbia. Rex served on the board at Lytle State Bank for 27 years and spent many years on the BMA Irrigation Board. He knew the history of the local water wells and offered his advice to the city on water issues. Rex loved the community of Lytle, often volunteering his time and resources by donating hay and trailers for the annual Christmas hayride. He also donated auction items to the LASSO organization each year by building swings and picnic tables. Rex was preceded in death by his parents, Guy and Juanita Mayhew and wife, Phyllis Ann Mayhew. Rex is survived by his loving daughter, Terri Pringle; brother-in-law, Larry Stanfield and wife, Jeri; loving, grandsons, Shawn Pringle and wife, Megan, and Nathan Pringle; and great grandchildren, Hudson and Holly Pringle. A Memorial Service will be held on Wednesday, June 28, 2023 at 10:00 A.M at Lytle United Methodist Church, 19341 S. Somerset St., Lytle, Texas 78052. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to: St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital, Memorial Giving, 501 St. Jude’s Place, Memphis, TN 38105; https://www.stjude.org/donate/donate-to-st-jude.html If you wish to share a memory or express your condolences to the family, you may do so by visiting www.primrosefuneralservices.com Arrangements are under the direction of Primrose Funeral Services in Lytle, Texas.
Elva P. Delgado, from Devine, Texas joined the Lord in her heavenly resting place on May 31, 2023. She was born on January 19, 1943 in Moore, Texas. She was born to Donato & Angelita Perez and was one of 10 children. She married Joe Thomas in 1965. Together they had four children, Bessie Smith, Martha Thomas, Joe Allen Thomas & Daniel Thomas. Eight grandchildren Marcus Velasquez, Megan (Velasquez) Ferrell, Jamie (Smith) Dale, Sonny Hernandez, Ashley Smith, Damon Thomas, Cole Smith & Slade Thomas and seven Great Grandchildren. She had a lifetime devotion to God, her faith, prayer and helping others. She was a prayer warrior and read her bible daily, always helping others. She loved sewing especially quilts, cooking & baking, so many people enjoyed her burgers, tamales & capirotada. She worked at the nursing homes in Devine for many years as a nurse’s aide, caring for the elderly and sick. She loved traveling and visiting others. Her greatest treasure was her children, grandchildren & family. She was survived by her children, Bessie Smith (David Densford), Martha Thomas (Carlos Galvez), Joe Allen & Daniel (Priscilla) Thomas, Brother Arturo (Nancy) Perez, Twin brother Eliseo (Mary) Perez, Monseis Perez Sr., Tomas (Rosa) Perez, sister Yolanda (Arturo) Sanchez & Don Pererz. She was preceded in death by her parents, Donato & Angelita Perez, her first husband Joe Thomas and second husband Jose Delgado, brother Guadalupe Perez, sister Naomi Jass and brother Saul Perez. A Viewing will be held at 7:00pm on Wednesday, June 7th at Primrose Funeral Services in Devine, TX. Funeral Services will be held Thursday, June 8th at 10:00am at the First Baptist Church in Devine, Texas with interment to follow in Longview Cemetery in Bigfoot, Texas. A reception will follow services at the First Baptist Church in Devine, Texas. Services are under the direction of Primrose Funeral Services in Devine, Texas.
The soul of Raymond Edward Gallaway, of Lytle, Texas, was received into heaven on May 26, 2023. Although we will no longer hear his many stories and laughter or feel his genuinely warm greetings, the difference he made in the lives of others here on earth will continue. Raymond, also known as Ray (and affectionately as “Uncle Buddy”), was born to Homer and Mary Ellen Gallaway on May 19, 1939 in San Antonio, Texas. He was a proud graduate of Luther Burbank Vocational High School after attending St. John Berchmans Catholic School and Parish. Ray’s devotion to Charlotte Ann DeCock began on September 17, 1960, when they wed at St. John Berchmans Catholic Church in San Antonio. Ray and Charlotte settled in Somerset, Texas in 1969 where he and his brother Patrick established Gallaway Brothers Feed, Seed & Hardware Store that was a landmark for 36 years. Ray retired from the store in 2005 and made many new friends in Lytle, Texas while continuing his lifelong passion of raising livestock. He was a founding shareholder of Somerset National Bank, served faithfully as the St. Mary’s Catholic Church council president and sang in the choir, was a Somerset City Council Alderman, was president of Somerset Little League, served two terms on the Texas Pork Producers Association, was vice president of the Somerset Lions Club and was president of the Somerset Young Farmers. He positively impacted and touched the lives of generations in the Somerset community and beyond. Ray is survived by the love of his life and wife, of 62 years, Charlotte Gallaway, and their loving family of six children and their spouses: Joan and Marc McGaffigan, Ray Jr. and Lori Gallaway, Michael and Ann Gallaway, Claudette and Billy Jordan, Jessica and Chris Schimelpfening, and Karen and Scott Rankin. Ray is also survived by fourteen grandchildren (and spouses): Blaine (Kate) McGaffigan, Brett McGaffigan, Lauren (Patrick) Cooper, Ty Gallaway, Elizabeth Gallaway, Christi (Clynton) Knox, Kimberly (Tyler) Hardy, Blair, Jacob and Brooke Rankin, Skylar and Sadie Schimelpfening, and Hunter and Chase Rankin, along with three great-grandchildren, Fiona and Dylan McGaffigan and Layne Hardy. Ray is, also, survived by his brother, Patrick Gallaway and his wife Janice; his sister, Janice Potter and her husband, Tom; his brother-in-law, Bobby Springer, plus many loving, nieces and nephews, who were his pride and joy, as were his many friends whom he considered his extended family. Ray is preceded in death by his mother and father, sister Diane (Persyn) Springer, brother-in-law Rene DeCock Jr., and son-in-law, Lance Rankin. We know Ray will be watching over us from heaven and we will remember him as we emulate his warmth toward others and his faithful love of God. Friends and family will be received at a visitation at Primrose Funeral Services in Lytle, Texas on June 12, 2023 from 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. with a Rosary to be recited from 7:00 p.m. to 7:45 p.m. The funeral Mass will be celebrated at St. Andrew Catholic Church in Lytle on June 13, 2023 at 10:00 a.m. with burial to follow at St. Mary’s Catholic Cemetery in Somerset. A reception will follow at St. Mary’s Parish Hall in Somerset. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to St. Andrew’s Catholic Church in Lytle, St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Somerset, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Shriners Hospitals for Children or your favorite charity. If you wish to share a memory or express your condolences to the family, you may do so by visiting www.primrosefuneralservices.com Arrangements are under the direction of Primrose Funeral Services in Lytle, Texas.
Stella Guevara Fernandez, 91, of San Antonio, Texas, went to be with her Lord and Savior on Tuesday, May 30, 2023. Stella was born in Natalia, Texas, on September 23, 1931, to Francisco Guevara and Cipriana Rodriguez Guevara. Stella attended Natalia High School and later married Felix Fernandez. They had seven children together. Stella moved to California where she raised her children. Stella worked for and retired from Memorex where she was a Quality Control Specialist. After retirement she returned to Texas where she made San Antonio her permanent home. Stella is preceded in death by her parents Francisco and Cipriana Guevara, her infant son Felix Jr. and her brothers, Victor, Alex, and Frank Guevara. Stella is survived by her children Beth (Van) Chapa, Elsa (Rick) Valdez, Ronald Sr. (Cathy) Fernandez, Diana Miller (Vince Madden), Richard Fernandez, and Monica (Ron) Delgado. Her sister, Manuela Pena, 16 grandchildren, 15 great-grandchildren, and 3 great-great- grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews. Stella was a loving and compassionate person who touched many lives. In her youth, she enjoyed singing with her sister, Manuela for their father. She enjoyed sports and was a catcher for a Natalia baseball team. She was also a drum majorette in high school. Stella was a fantastic cook, the best tamale maker during the holidays and she enjoyed preparing meals for her family. She loved to bake and was famous for her delicious carrot cake. Stella loved stitching quilts for her children and grandchildren and was a great storyteller too. She had many happy memories of her childhood. She would share those stories with her children and grandchildren often. Stella was adored by all who knew her and will be missed. Above all Stella treasured her family, especially her grandchildren whom she loved watching and caring for. We take comfort in knowing that our mother, Stella went home to be with her Lord and Savior. Thank you to all for your support and prayers. Heaven gained a beautiful, sweet angel. Visitation was held at Primrose Funeral Services in Devine, Texas on Monday, June 5th, 2023, from 5 P.M.- 9 P.M. with a Rosary that was recited at 7 P.M. Mass was held at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Devine, Texas, on Tuesday, June 6th, 2023, at 10 A.M. with interment to follow at St. Joseph’s Catholic Cemetery. Services are under the direction of Primrose Funeral Services in Devine, Texas.
Sarah Rodriguez went to be with her Lord and Savior, on May 26, 2023. She is preceded in death by her mother, Elvira Flores; sisters, Consuelo Miranda, and Sylvia Isaac; and brother, Joe Flores. She will be greatly missed by her husband, Johnny; sons, Dr. Ronald Rodriguez (Rose) of San Antonio, John Allen Rodriguez (Louisa) of Austin, and daughter, Cindy Hensel (Steve) of Augusta, Georgia; sisters, Amalia Espinoza, Oralia Flores of Sacramento, California, Sonia Hernandez, Rose Mary Hernandez, Gloria Garza; brother, Pastor Miguel Hernandez, along with her grandchildren; Victoria Rodriguez of Baltimore, Maryland, Lucas Rodriguez, Alana Rodriguez of Austin, Michael Hensel, Alyssa Hensel, and Matthew Hensel of Augusta, Georgia; and numerous nieces and nephews, and great nieces and nephews. Sarah devoted many years to intercessory prayer for family, friends and their families and even acquaintances of their friends. Often, she did this with prayer partners which grew to a ministry unto itself. Sarah was best known for her fantastic cooking and baking skills, including making wedding and special occasion cakes for friends and family. She was very creative and loved to make jewelry, flower arrangements, and created beautiful gardens for her and her family to enjoy. One of her greatest joys in life was baking cookies with her grandchildren. She also dedicated many years to the Lytle and Atascosa County 4-H Clubs. Visitation will be held on Saturday, June 3, 2023 at 10:00 a.m. with a funeral service at 11:00 a.m. at Primrose Funeral Services of Lytle, Texas. Pastor Dan Ytuarte from Prevailing Word Church in Lytle and Pastor Terry Sisneros of Destiny Church in San Antonio will be officiating. Interment to follow in Ruiz-Herrera Cemetery in Von Ormy, Texas. If you wish to share a memory or express your condolences to the family, you may do so by visiting www.primrosefuneralservices.com Arrangements are under the direction of Primrose Funeral Services in Lytle.
