James Edwin Bennett, III, of Natalia, Texas, went to be with the Lord, on December 28, 2022, at the age of 67, in San Antonio, Texas. James was born on February 8, 1955, to James and Joann Tilton Bennett in Columbus, Ohio. James served in the United States Army, for 20 years. He served in support of Desert Storm. He was also a member of Lytle VFW Post 12041 and the Veterans of Foreign Wars Motorcycle Group of Texas (VFWMGTX), Unit 8. James is survived by his wife, Petra S. Bennett; brothers, Jack Bennett, Jeffrey Bennett (Kelly), John Bennett and Jody Bennett; and numerous nieces and nephews. Visitation will be on Monday, January 23, 2023 from 5:00 pm – 7:00 pm at Primrose Funeral Services, 14822 Main Street, Lytle, Texas 78052. Graveside services will be held on Tuesday, January 24, 2023 at 2:15 pm at Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery, 1520 Harry Wurzbach Road, San Antonio, Texas 78209, with Full Military Honors. In lieu of flowers, the family request that memorial donations be made to the American Cancer Society, https://www.cancer.org/involved/donate.html Anyone wishing to sign the online guestbook, share memories or issue condolences to the family, may do so at www.primrosefuneralservices.com Arrangements under the direction of Primrose Funeral Services, 14822 Main Street, Lytle, Texas.
Lois Delean Mangum Wanjura of Lytle passed away on January 11, 2023 at the age of 95. She was born August 5, 1927 in San Antonio, Texas to the late James Mitchell Mangum and Annie J. Ferguson Mangum. Lois attended high school in Oklahoma City and then Lytle High School. On June 15, 1946, Lois married Franklin S. Wanjura at the Lytle Methodist Parsonage. They were blessed with seventy years of marriage at the time of his passing in 2016. Lois was a school nurse for Lytle ISD and retired in 1990 after twenty-six years. In addition to being a school nurse, Lois also helped her husband on the farm, all while raising their three children. Survivors include her children and their spouses, Franklin Wanjura, Jr. and Pam of Lytle, Warren Wanjura and Diane of Lytle, and Denise Avants and Roger of San Antonio; grandchildren, Kyle Wanjura, Warren Wanjura, Jr. (Jennifer), Tricia Kelley (Brandon), Tyson Wanjura (Vicki), Clinton Avants (Rebekah), Ashley Avants, and Nadia Robinson; great-grandchildren, Colby Wanjura, Laynie Wanjura, Sarah Kelley, Andrew Kelley, Leo Wanjura, Emily Wanjura, Camden Avants, Averie Cairns, Hailey Cairns, and Wimberly Avants; honorary grandchildren, Caleb and Carson Green; sister-in-law, Bonnie Finnigan; as well as several nieces and nephews. Lois was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Franklin S. Wanjura, Sr.; her sister, Elizabeth Peters (Marvin); her brother, James Mangum; and her brother-in-law, Jack Finnigan. Visitation will be Saturday, January 21, 2023 beginning at 9:00 a.m. at the Lytle United Methodist Church with the Funeral Service at 10:00 a.m. Interment will follow at the Lytle Community Cemetery in Lytle, Texas. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in Lois’ memory to the Lytle Animal Shelter, Lytle Public Library, Lytle UMC, or the charity of your choice. Arrangements by Tondre-Guinn Funeral Home. Visit www.tondre-guinn.com.
Dollie Mae Buser of Natalia went to be with her Lord and Savior on January 6, 2023 at the age of 70. On July 6, 1952 Dollie was born in small town Poteet, Texas. Dollie was as a South Texas native all her life; she took great pride in her beautiful state and country. Dollie settled down in Natalia, Texas where she went on to raise 3 beautiful daughters. Dollie served as a bus driver for the local school district for over 25 years. Dollie’s children had children and their children would also later have children bestowing unto her the title she took the most pride in, “Mammie”. She is often remembered as being a Mammie not only to her grandkids, but to many. Those who knew Dollie appreciated that you could not come by her house without leaving with something in your hands and food in your stomach. Dollie was a bright soul, she would always bring love and laughter to every gathering she attended. Sadly, after a week in the hospital, Dollie’s pain was eased and she gained her wings. She will be loved and missed by all who knew and loved her. Dollie is preceded in death by her parents, Rolyn “Bill” Stevens, and Annie Mae Stevens; grandparents, William Nelson and Edna Lee, John Stevens and Viola Akers; brothers, William Stevens, and Rolyn Stevens; aunts and uncles, Lonie and Georgia Lou, Ernest and Lily, Ben and Paula, Velma and Edwin Poe, Billie Jo and James, Patsy and James; and cousin, Charlotte Stevens. Dollie is survived by her children, Viola and Lee, Poo and Derek, Vonda and Mark; aunts and uncles, Nancy and Ray, Jack and Elaine; nieces and nephews, Wendy Lee, Wendy Leigh, Franklin, Roy, Robert, Tommy, TG, Brandon, Wesley, Rolana, and Tynia; grandchildren, Richard, Kassandrah, Savannah, Alisyn, Justin, Trey, Alicia, Emily, and Nickolus; great grandchildren, Colton, Jacob, Eli, Aceton, Cameron, Brady, Jocelyn, Raelynn, Keaghan, Oaklynn, Gracelynn, Madelyn, and Waylon Services are under the direction and guidance of Camero Funeral Home.
Juanita Torrez Cervantes (Nita/Jenny), age 45 of Natalia, Texas entered eternal rest on Tuesday, January 3, 2023. She was born August 6, 1977, in San Antonio, Texas. Juanita is preceded in death by her parents, Anunsacian (Chon) and Anita Torrez; brother, Ramon Garcia. She is survived by her loving husband of thirteen years, Juan Cervantes; sister, Jessica Ferdin (Venancio); five special God-Children; numerous extended family and friends. Visitation will be held Monday, January 9, 2023, 5:00 P.M. until 9:00 P.M. with a Rosary recited at 7:00 P.M. at Primrose Funeral Services in Devine, Texas. Mass will be held Tuesday, January 10, 2023, 10:00 A.M. at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church with interment to follow at St. Joseph’s Catholic Cemetery. Anyone wishing to leave condolences, share memories, or sign the online guestbook may do so at www.primrosefuneralservices.com
On Friday, December 9, Gilbert E. Ricord, 66, of Pearsall, Tx, beloved husband, father, brother and friend, passed away. Born to Mannie and Martha Ricord of Devine, Texas, Gilbert was raised alongside his 2 sisters (Elizabeth & Eleanor) and 3 brothers (David, Lonnie & Ricky). Gilbert worked many years at local tire shops and convenience stores. Those who stopped by will remember his infectious laugh and friendly nature. When not working, he took every opportunity to go fishing. Whether it was along side his brother, Lonnie (Captain), oar at the local pond, going fishing was his happy place. Gilbert was predeceased by his parents Mannie and Martha Ricord, and his brother David Ricord. He is survived by his wife of 35 years Maria, and their 5 daughters Valerie, Nicole, Estrellita (Jason), Martha (Joseph), and Priscilla (Timothy). There are 3 granddaughters and 5 grandsons who love their Grampi very much. A memorial service will be held on Saturday, January 14, 2022, at 11:00 a.m. at San Pablo United Methodist Church.
Barbara Lynn Carr Pacini, born May 18, 1962, went into the loving arms of the Lord on December, 20, 2022 at the age of 60. Barbara loved being a mother and grandmother. She was always available to help friends and loved planning special occasions and making beautiful decorations and gifts. She thoroughly enjoyed being an educator and helping children grow and learn in the classroom and in their faith. She is loved and will be dearly missed by parents Charles Richard Carr & Lee Cowan Carr; her daughter Jacqulynn & Josh Hermann of D’Hanis; and her son John & Monica Pacini of San Antonio; and grandchildren Stella Pacini, Tyson Hermann, and Cassius, Christian, and Cadenece Hermann; and a brother Rick and Barbara Carr. Barbara earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Education from the University of Houston at Victoria. Barbara was married to Tony Pacini in Victoria, TX. Born to the marriage were the loves of her life, her children Jackie and John, her two biggest blessings. After they married they moved to Devine, TX where she made lifelong friendships and his parents ran a dairy farm. She taught in Devine, D’Hanis, and Big Springs. She loved to teach math, which was her favorite subject, and created “Pacini City” to help kids understand the value of money. Everyone had a job with a salary and would have to pay to do certain things. She taught CCD in Devine and D’Hanis and helped start up the Alter Server program in Devine with her friends. When Barbara and the kids moved to D’Hanis one of her favorite things to do with her teenage children and their friends was to play board games one night a week. Some of her favorites were Farkle (dice) with the kids, and Euchre with her friends and having movie nights/game nights with her friends and families. When she retired from teaching Barbara took on a new career selling insurance for Get More Insurance in Devine, TX, with her friends the Sultenfuss’ who were like family to her. Then, when her parents health started to decline and they needed help she dropped what she was doing to help them day to day. She also made time to take care of her grandson Tyson a couple times a week. She was so excited to become a grandmother, “GIGI” and made both Tyson and Stella newborn clothes and a sleeping pillow. She loved making clothes for everyone. Barbara hand sewed Jacqulynn’s wedding dress, and made the grandkids many outfits. She even made Stella’s first Halloween costume. She also sewed diaper bags and breastfeeding pillows. Anything they needed she looked up how to make, including rompers when that was all Jackie felt comfortable wearing as her belly grew. Barbara was super creative, from Halloween costumes growing up (John was a John Deer Tractor) to Jackie’s Mardi Gras themed party where the kids all built their own cardboard boxes. If you had an idea she was able to bring it to life. More recently she would enjoy the days she got to pick the grandkids up from school and hang out with them until their parents got home. They would always play some sort of board game or card game. She loved gifting them different books series she thought they would be interested in and helped them enjoy reading for fun. She made a huge impression on everyone she met. Since her passing many ex-students have reached out expressing their love for her 20+ years later. She never met a stranger and always made everyone feel welcome. Services have been changed to 12:30 p.m. on Saturday, January 14th at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Devine. A reception will follow in the hall.
Jacob Sanchez, age 35, of Bigfoot, Texas, went to be with his Lord and Savior, on Thursday, January 5, 2023. He was born November 23, 1987, in San Antonio, Texas to Raul D. Sanchez and Maria Del Jesus Sanchez. Jacob is preceded in death by his brother, Tony Sanchez. He is survived by his loving wife of eighteen years, Rebecca Renee Powe; daughter, Karli Joy Sanchez; father, Raul D. Sanchez; mother, Maria Del Jesus Sanchez (Oscar); and mom, Yolanda Ornelas, siblings, Raul Sanchez, Jr., Jose Luis Sanchez, David Sanchez (Stephanie), Saily Z. Sanchez (Jessica), Donald Ornelas (Jessica), Suzanna Vasquez (Uriel), Jose Sanchez, Jr., Jeremy Currie (Hilary); nephews, Connor, Isaac, Oliver, Wyatt, and Ryan; nieces, Bailey O., Bailey D., Leighton, Mia, Bella, Mariyah, Chloe, and Aunalyse. Bonus family, James and Jennifer Howard, David and Donna Powe, Eric and Amanda Rodriguez, David, Jr. and Taryn Powe, Chelsi and Sam Hall, & Erika Temple. Jacob went to live with his Aunt Yolanda in Bigfoot when he was six. He stayed with her through school, and he graduated from Devine ISD in 2006. He continued his education at Texas A&M, graduating in 2016, with his Bachelor of Science. He landed his dream job, teaching and coaching at Devine ISD in 2016. He taught sixth and eighth grade Science, and coached football, basketball and track, for the last seven years. Jacob met the love of his life, Becky, while in High School and in 2015, they welcomed their beautiful daughter, Karli Joy Sanchez. He blossomed as a father and was wrapped around Karli’s finger. He was always going above and beyond to provide for his family and make all their dreams come true. Jacob had a love for the beach. In the summer he would take his family down for weeks at a time to stay in their camper. He woke early and plotted their day of fishing. He was always after the biggest catch. He, also, recently, started taking guitar lessons so he could play and sing to Karli. Their favorite song to sing together was Folsom Prison Blues by Johnny Cash. Jacob loved spending time with his family as often as possible. Football Sundays were spent in Bigfoot watching games and trash talking the other teams and on how, his Titians, were going to win. On the off season it was flea market, Ross, then Game Stop. He loved to find a good deal, and splurged on whatever deal he could find. Throughout Jacob’s life his love for people shined through in many ways. He initiated a few projects to help his community, mowing yards for those who couldn’t do for themselves, and collecting shoes for students in need. He would often have snacks available in his classroom, and sneak in food for his students, and buy tacos and doughnuts for his colleagues. He was the kind of guy that made you feel like you mattered, no matter what your background was. Jacob would tell you if you were in the wrong, and how to turn it around. He believed in supporting one another, however possible. Jacob truly felt the calling to be a teacher, not just in the classroom. “I’ve never wanted a student to dread coming to my class, I make sure to tell them, ‘I want to see them everyday’, I tell my kids that I truly do care about them and they become honorary “Sanchez” when they are taught by me.” -Jacob Sanchez. A Visitation will be held Thursday, January 14, 2023, from 5:00 pm to 9:00 pm at Primrose Funeral Services, 303 W. College Ave., Devine, Texas 78016. Funeral Services will be Friday, January 13, 2023 at 2:00 pm at First Baptist Church, 308 W. Hondo Ave., Devine, Texas 78016. Interment at Longview Cemetery on CR 2729, Bigfoot, Texas. If anyone wishes to make a donation to “Jacob’s Love Fund”, an account is set up at Security State Bank, Devine, Texas. Also, available for donations https://venmo.com/u/jacoblovefund and https://cash.app/$jacoblovefund75 Anyone wishing to leave condolences, share memories, or sign the online guest book may do so at www.primrosefuneralservices.com
Thomas Steven Smith of McQueeney, Tx, took his seat with Our Lord on December 11, 2022 at 68 years old. He was preceded in death by his parents, Gerald Walter and Lillian Lee Smith of Devine, Tx, his brothers Gerald Walter Smith, Jr, and Patrick Wayne Smith, sister Debra Ann Johnson, and daughter (in his heart) Denae Erin Enfinger. He is survived by his loving wife of 48 years, Linda Marie Smith; brother Michael Ray (Mike) Smith and wife Linda of Celina, Tx, sister Dana Lynn Hood and husband Tracy of Seguin, Tx, brother James Allen (Jimmy) Smith and wife Jeanne of Adkins, Tx, lifelong best friend and brother Scott Matykiewicz and wife Trish of McQueeney, Tx; children Steven Thomas Smith and wife Stacey of Schertz, Tx, Daniel Alan Smith and wife Danielle of McQueeney, Tx, Lisa Marie DuBose and husband JR of Devine, Tx, Christopher Michael Smith and wife Jessica of Warrensburg, MO; grandchildren Kortney Cannon, Celeste Smith, Kahlie Smith, Jonathan Washington, Clint DuBose, Steven Smith, Brooke DuBose, Harper DuBose, Brielle Smith, Scarlett Smith; and numerous nieces and nephews that he loved like his own children. Tommy served in the US Navy until his second child was born, and then began driving a truck for Texas Test Fleet alongside his father. He drove for many companies throughout the years, the longest being Parkway Transport (HEB) for the last 33 years of his career. He loved spending time with his children and grandchildren, siblings and in-laws and sharing tales of life on the road and memories of the past. He could tell a story like no other, and his love for family was endless. Services were held at Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery, 1520 Harry Wurzbach Rd., San Antonio, Tx 78209, on December 30, 2022 at 1:15pm, under Shelter #2. There was a luncheon that followed at Cross of Christ Lutheran Church, 1530 Kitty Hawk Rd., Universal City, TX 78148.
Chavela Camacho Gonzales passed away at home peacefully on December 27, 2022, in Live Oak, TX at the age of 69. She is preceded in death by her son, Clifton Charles Gonzales, her parents, Tomas, and Santiaga Camacho;Grandmother, Irena Cerna; Siblings, Ruben Camacho, Lupe Gauna, Tom Camacho; Sister and Brother in laws, Carmen Camacho, Margie Camacho, Bartloa Camacho, San Juan Gauna, and Stella Camacho; Mother and Father-in-Law, Efren and Apolonia Gonzales whom she loved dearly. Chavela is survived by her loving husband of 44 years, Clifton Gonzales, Daughter, Rebecca Cavazos (Edward), Grandchildren, Israel, Bianca, Olivia, Noah, and Great granddaughter, Ellie; Her siblings, Paul (Jean), Manuel (Aurelia), Chago (Pat), Josie, and Vicki Camacho. Born on June 14th, 1953, in Pearsall, TX, Chavela was the youngest of 10 brothers and sisters. In her childhood, she enjoyed making wonderful memories with her siblings and cousins playing outside. Chavela loved to play with dolls. She was spoiled by her grandmother and always got what she wanted. In her teen years, she discovered her love and passion for dancing and big hoop earrings. On July 29th, 1978, she married Clifton V Gonzales in her hometown of Pearsall, TX. Together, they built a life in San Antonio and had two children, Clifton Charles Gonzales, and Rebecca Camacho Gonzales Cavazos. Chavela was a stay-at-home mom and took pride in taking care of her family, ensuring home cooked meals were on the table each night. She attended and volunteered at every event for her children and always knew how to make her family feel better when something was wrong. Chavela woke up each morning joyously to make breakfast and lunch for her husband. She supported and loved him dearly and was grateful for the gift of being able to stay home and raise their two wonderful children. Throughout the years, Chavela often told her children stories of her childhood that included many cherished memories with her parents, grandmother, brothers, sisters, cousins, and friends, growing up overall. There was never a quiet moment in the presence of her sweet soul. She held a very close bond with her many nieces and nephews, and she often expressed this love with the upbringing of her mother’s teachings in dedication to family. Chavela was known for remembering every birthday and made a friend wherever she went. She loved to laugh, joke, and truly lived a life of every moment mattering to life and her family. Chavela was diagnosed with a degenerative disease in 1995. She often told her family she was going to fight the disease and promised herself she would be able to stand up for her children’s graduation. Chavela surpassed this goal and so many others and while able to care for her first grandson, Israel Nathaniel from birth until elementary school age; teaching him preschool and kinder concepts. She loved her grandchildren dearly and considered herself extremely blessed to be a grandmother. Chavela will forever leave a lasting imprint on their hearts. She was an active member of St. Monica’s Catholic Church. Chavela always ensured her children received a catholic teaching, each were baptized, received reconciliation, and were confirmed at St. Monica’s Church. She attended weekly prayer groups and made many friendships through her faith. When Chavela was no longer able to attend services due to her illness, she and her husband watched the daily rosary and mass from home as her continued commitment to God. Chavela will be deeply missed by so many. Her memory will live on through her loving family and friends. A very special heartfelt thank you to her husband, Clifton Gonzales for providing the best care for her and his commitment to his vow as a husband to care for her through sickness and in health. The family would like to also thank the many special individuals who were with them in so many ways during her last weeks of life. Pallbearers: David Camacho, Edward Cavazos, Gary Allen, Israel Urdiales, Jerry Camacho, Joe Valadez, Manuel Camacho, and Mario Camacho. Honorary Pallbearers: Noah Cavazos, Bianca Herrera, Olivia Gonzales
David Lee “One Shot” Vogt, 68, passed away on December 17, 2022, at his residence in Somerset. He was born May 13, 1954, in San Antonio, TX to Levine R. Vogt and Marjorie B. Johnson. David is a 1972 graduate of Southwest High School in San Antonio. He enlisted in the Army in 1972 and proudly served our country until 1980. His military career took him to Korea and Desert Storm, as well as being a Marksmanship Instructor. After being honorably discharged he returned home and studied at Alamo Community College and St. Phillip’s College. David served as Fire Chief for the Rossville Fire Department from 1990-2003 then transferred to the Lytle Fire Department. He was a Master mechanic, enjoyed woodworking, and he especially enjoyed competing in Marksmanship competitions. He loved his fur babies, and his schnauzers, and remained active with fellow Veterans through events and social media. David is preceded in death by his parents Levine Vogt and Marjorie Johnson; and his sister Karolyn Supulver. He is survived by his daughters Ann and Heidi Vogt; brothers and sisters-in-law Lee Vogt and Michelle, William Vogt and Emily, and Ronnie Vogt and Judy; sisters and brother-in-law Sherland Juarez, and Marilyn and Howard Beeson; grandchildren Illiana, Einathan, Kyle, Kevin, Shelby, and Glynn; great-granddaughter Layna Grace; numerous nieces, nephews, and other relatives. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Wheelers for the Wounded https://wheelersforthewoundednj.org Graveside services were at 9:45 am on Tuesday, January 3, 2023, at Ft. Sam Houston National Cemetery in San Antonio, TX; under the direction of Hurley Funeral Home-Pleasanton, TX.
