Category: Obituaries

Joe Castillo, Jr., born on January 26, 1953, in Stanfield, Arizona, passed away peacefully on January 11, 2026, at the age of 72, where he later made his home in Lytle, Texas.
Joe was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend. A proud Native American man with a wild and free spirit, Joe lived life on his own terms. He had a heart full of love, a contagious laugh, and a way of making everyone around him feel joy and warmth. Though his wings were ready, our hearts were not.
Joe worked for many years as a roofer, providing for his family through hard work, strength, and dedication. Outside of work, he loved to joke, dance, and have a good time. He was always the life of the room, and his favorite song, “Free Bird,” perfectly captured his free spirit and love for living.
Above all else, Joe was the best dad ever. He was the proud father of seven children—“and counting,” as he liked to say—and his family was the center of his world. He adored his grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren, all of whom brought him immense pride and joy.
Joe shared a deep and loving bond with his beloved wife, Virginia “Vicki” Torres, whom he cherished deeply. He welcomed her family as his own and loved them with unwavering loyalty and care.
He is survived by his loving wife, Virginia Torres, and his children and their spouses: Jojo Castillo and Sandra Lopez; Tony and Michelle Castillo; Monica Castillo and Lorenzo Olvera; Debby Flores; Katie and David Chlad; Joelouis Barlow and Virginia Reese; Marjorie Castillo and Terrance Bedingfield Jr.; Amy Castillo and Carlos Ortiz; Olivia and Rudy Rodriguez; Stephanie and Dan Booth; Pedro and Loretta Guerrero; Santiago and Marissa Morantez; and Anna Marie Guerrero.
He is also survived by his siblings, Constance Ochoa, Anita Ochoa, and Louie Castillo, along with many extended family members and friends who loved him dearly.
Joe was preceded in death by his mother, Mary Marjorie Galvan Hernandez; his father, Jose Castillo; his brother, Daniel Castillo; his sister, Marjorie “Hope” Ochoa; and his grandson, Gabriel Benegas, who now welcome him home in heaven.
Joe now rests in the promise of eternal life, as written in Scripture:
“I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live, even though they die; and whoever lives by believing in me will never die.” — John 11:25–26
A Funeral Mass will be held on January 26, 2026, at 9:30 a.m. at St. Andrew’s Church in Lytle, Texas. An open reception will follow the service at the Rodriguez residence.
Joe Castillo, Jr. will be remembered for his love, strength, laughter, dancing, and the powerful legacy he leaves behind through his family. He was loved beyond words and will be missed beyond measure.

Natalia Police Report

1/5/2026 – Officers responded to the 500 Blk of 5th street for a theft that had occurred the case is being investigated.
1/6/2026 – Officers were dispatched to the 600 Blk of 4th street for a dog bite that occurred the victim was take to the hospital for the bite case is still pending investigation.
1/8/2026 – Officers responded to the St Hwy 132 for illegal dumping the individual was advised and picked up the trash.
1/9/2026 Officers were dispatched to the 600 Blk of 4th St for a verbal disturbance; everyone was separated and no charges were filed.
1/9/2026 – Officers were dispatched to 3rd St and 471 for a couple arguing upon arrival they were separated and the female left the area.

Barbara Lee Smith passed away on December 31, 2025. Barbara was born July 12, 1940 in San Antonio, TX.
She was independent and strong-willed, living life on her own terms and loving her family deeply.
She is survived by her sons James Woodcock and wife Missy, Greg Woodcock and wife Tena, and Fred Smith Jr.; grandchildren Chris, Logan, and Savanah Woodcock; Jaren and Lily Woodcock; Jayden Causey; sister Sissy Joyce; four great-grandchildren and several nieces and nephews.
A celebration of life will be held at 2:00 PM, Saturday, January 17, 2026 at Lytle Methodist Church, 19341 S. Somerset St., Lytle TX 78052.

Robert David Brown passed away on January 7, 2026, at the age of 70.
Robert was born in San Antonio, Texas, on October 26, 1955, to Robert (Bob) Brown and Ruth Hernandez Brown.
He moved to Devine at age 10 after his father, Mr. Brown Sr., had the opportunity to open a Chevrolet dealership in town. It was then that Robert discovered his first passion—the auto industry.
He began with humble beginnings at the dealership; his first assignment was washing cars for years.
Robert graduated from Devine High School, Class of ’74, and went on to college with all his Beatles albums—music being another of his passions.
He attended the University of Texas at Austin, graduating in the Class of ’78 with a degree in Business Administration.
One of his proudest memories from this time was driving from Austin to Devine almost every weekend to sell cars and continue learning about the auto industry.
Along his college journey was his high school sweetheart, Connie, whom he married on July 8, 1978. They shared a son, Robbie. Connie sadly passed away in 1999.
Robert continued to work his way up in the Brown Auto Stores, holding many titles at dealerships in Devine, Del Rio, Eagle Pass, and Laredo—proudly becoming one of the nation’s youngest dealers.
Over the years, he served as a salesman, sales manager, Finance Director, and ultimately CEO/President and Dealer Principal of the Brown Auto Group.
He also served on the Board of Directors for the Bank of Texas and the Texas Auto Dealer Association. Robert was a proud member of the Texas Exes Alumni Association. Hook ’em!
He carried on his parents’ legacy and commitment to supporting the communities served by the dealerships.
Robert was a dedicated season ticket holder for the San Antonio Spurs for more than 30 years. He attended games regularly, inviting family, friends, and employees, and donated his seats in the Super Box countless times for charity.
In 2008, Robert found love again, marrying Thelma Romero Brown on November 13, 2010. Together, they had three beautiful children: Victoria, Delilah, and Armando.
Robert held many titles and accolades, but the one he valued most was being a dad.
He is preceded in death by his parents, Robert B. Brown and Ruth Marie Hernandez Brown; his first wife, Connie; his infant son, Baby Boy Brown; and his brother, Michael.
He is survived by his wife, Thelma Romero Brown; his children, Robbie, Victoria, Delilah, and Armando; his siblings, William George Brown and wife Tammy of New Braunfels, and Jeannette Brown Perez and husband Carlos of Del Rio; his grandchildren, Robbie and Milli; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends.
Honored to serve as pallbearers are: Robert (Robbie) Brown, Armando Jorge Brown, Carlos Perez, Pete Ortiz, Christopher Ortiz, Emmanuel Cuevas, Jorge Alberto Romero, Gustavo Gallegos.
Honorary pallbearer, William George Brown.
Visitation will be held on Friday, January 16, 2026, from 6:00 pm until 9:00 pm at Primrose Funeral Service of Devine, Texas. Funeral Service will be held on Saturday, January 17, 2026, at 1:00 pm at the First Baptist Church of Castroville, Texas, with interment to follow in 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.

We are sad to announce the passing of JoAnn Marsh Davis, born September 21, 1946, passed on December 22, 2025. She resided in Seguin, Texas for the last couple decades of her life where she is survived by her Husband Mike Palmer.
JoAnn went to school and later taught in Natalia and Devine, where her parents were very active in the Church of Christ.
She is predeceased in death by her Son Joey Nathan Davis.
She is survived by her eldest Son Carl Von Oberlender and his spouse Loyd Hawkins; Son Terry Jay Oberlender and his wife Bernarda Oberlender; Grandchildren Samantha Bailey Oberlender, Branden Chase Oberlender and his wife Sara, Tristen Seth Oberlender and his wife Lahni, Jayven Blane Davis and Jaya Mae Davis; Great Grandchildren Jade Aura Dubose, Bluenn Fleur Dubose, Riley Grey Oberlender and Weston Tate Oberlender.
A graveside service will be held Sunday, January 18th at 2 PM at Evergreen Cemetery in Devine, Texas.

Della Marie Linehan of Natalia, Tx, was born September 20, 1934, in Seagraves, Tx. At the age of 91, she peacefully left this world surrounded by family and entered the pearly gates on January 4, 2026.
She is preceded in death by her husband Jimmy of 64 years, parents, John C. and Viola Bluhm, along with six sisters and two brothers.
Della is survived by her children, Joe “Doc” Linehan, Brenda Fernandez (Mike), Janice Gray (Ricky), Monty Linehan (Lisa), eleven grandchildren, twenty-eight great-grandchildren, and five great-great-grandkids.
Della, also known as Del and Mom, but most importantly, Granny, and Mimi, lived a life defined by faith. Her heart for her family, friends, and Church has been felt for many decades and across generations. Countless people were blessed with her gifts. Whether through sewing, quilting, embroidery, upholstery, baked goods, handmade jewelry, or something grown in her garden. No project was ever too big or small for her loving hands. She lived to serve others first, and few have ever loved as fiercely or as faithfully as she did.
Service officiated by Grandson, Chestly Gobar.
Honorary Pallbearers: Joe “Doc” Linehan, Monty Linehan, Mike Fernandez, and Ricky Gray
Pallbearers: Kellen Nixon, Antonio “Nano” Ramirez, Frankie Reyes, Jr., Aidan Villarreal, Alec Villareal, and Joshua Ramon
A visitation was held on Sunday, January 11, 2026, from 3:00pm to 7:00pm at Primrose Funeral Services at 303 West College Ave, Devine, Texas, 78016.
The funeral service was also held at Primrose Funeral Services on Monday, January 12, 2026, at 10:00am with interment to follow in Evergreen Cemetery, Devine, Texas.
If you would like to express your condolences, or share a memory, please do so at www.primrosefuneralservices.com
Funeral arrangements are under the care of Primrose Funeral Services in Devine, Texas

Marjorie Louise Knappick Marbach, age 88 of Devine, Texas, passed away on Tuesday, December 31, 2025, at her home with her family by her side.
Margie, as her family and friends called her, was born April 29, 1937, in Leming, Texas to parents Adolf Walter Knappick and Alma (Neal) Knappick. She is preceded in death by her parents and husband, Paul Marbach, and brother, Anton (Tony) Knappick.
Marjorie is survived by her children, Jim (Ande) Marbach of Carlsbad, NM, Cindy Stein of Hondo, TX, John Marbach of Devine, TX, Randy (Tina) Marbach of San Marcos, TX, eight grandchildren, six great-grandchildren, and half sister, Peggy Biela.
Visitation will be held at Primrose Funeral Services in Devine, Texas on Friday, January 16, 2026, from 1:00 pm – 3:00 pm, with a Funeral Service at 3:00 pm. Interment will follow in Saint Joseph’s Catholic Cemetery.
The family has requested that in lieu of flowers that donations be made to Cal-Farley’s Boy’s Ranch at 600 SW 11th Ave, Amarillo, Texas 79101
If you would like to share a memory or express condolences, please do so at www.primrosefuneralservices.com
Arrangements are under the care of Primrose Funeral Services of Devine, Texas.

Virginia Campos of Devine Texas, born September 17, 1950, in Laredo Texas. Passed away on December 23, 2025, at the age of 75 in Devine Texas, surrounded by her loved ones.
She is preceded in death by her parents Antonio and Esperanza Velazquez, her brother’s Juan A. Velazquez and Raul Velazquez, and her sister Yolanda Gonzalez, and grandson Carlos Alberto Campos.
Virginia is survived by her loving husband of 57 years of marriage, Alberto H. Campos, by her children Maria Isabel, Alberto, Alejandro (Ludivina Campos), and Virginia Campos (Ruben Flores). Virginia leaves behind brothers Ruben, and Melquiadez Velazquez; sister Consuelo Rocha. Virginia will also be missed by her grandchildren, Alberto, Samantha, Amanda Campos, Victoria, Ruben, Rodrigo Flores, and Alexia and Pablo Campos, and great granddaughter Gracelyn Gabriela Campos.
A very special thanks to Teresa Cornejo, Daly Robledo, and Silvia Pineda for all their sweet care and attention for Virginia and the family.
A funeral service will be held in her honor on Saturday, January 10, 2026, in the Primrose Funeral Chapel in Devine, Texas, from 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m., Following a gathering at the Devine VFW (211 West College Ave. Devine, TX)

Virginia Campos, de Devine, Texas, nacida el 17 de septiembre de 1950 en Laredo, Texas, falleció el 23 de diciembre de 2025 a la edad de 75 años en Devine, Texas, rodeada de sus seres queridos.
Le precedieron en muerte sus padres Antonio y Esperanza Velazquez, sus hermanos Juan A. Velazquez y Raul Velazquez, su hermana Yolanda Gonzalez y su nieto Carlos Alberto Campos.
Virginia es sobrevivida por su amado esposo de 57 años de matrimonio, Alberto H. Campos, y por sus hijos Maria Isabel, Alberto, Alejandro (Ludivina Campos) y Virginia Campos (Ruben Flores).
Virginia deja también a sus hermanos Ruben y Melquiadez Velazquez; a su hermana Consuelo Rocha.
Virginia será extrañada por sus nietos Alberto, Samantha, Amanda Campos, Victoria, Ruben, Rodrigo Flores, Alexia y Pablo Campos, y por su bisnieta Gracelyn Gabriela Campos.
Un agradecimiento muy especial a Teresa Cornejo, Daly Robledo y Silvia Pineda por todo el cariño y atención brindados a Virginia y a la familia.
El servicio funerario se llevará a cabo en su honor el sábado 10 de enero de 2026 en la Capilla Funeraria Primrose en Devine, Texas, de 5:00 p.m. a 9:00 p.m., seguido de una reunión en el VFW de Devine (211 West College Ave. Devine, TX).

Virgil Boehme, of Castroville, Texas, passed away December 16, 2025 at the age of 84. He was born April 9, 1941 in San Antonio, Texas, to Armin Emil Boehme and Lorine Stein Boehme Persyn.
Virgil graduated from St. Louis High School in 1959. On August 18, 1963, Virgil married Nora Fay Huckle at Our Lady of Grace Catholic Church in La Coste. They were blessed with sixty-two years of marriage and two daughters.
He was a multi-generational Medina County farmer and rancher. Virgil was a member of the Quihi Gun Club, Stock Show Member for both Medina County and San Antonio, worked with the FFA, and the Medina County Fair. He also served on the Medina Valley ISD School Board. He was a 50-year member of the St. Louis Society.
Survivors include his wife, Nora Fay Boehme of Castroville; children, Susan Kilgore (Daniel) of Castroville and Melissa Nietenhoefer (Stuart) of Hondo; grandchildren, Kele Luigs (Jonathan), Kaci Rittimann (James), Kyli Brewer, Karli Sewell (Anna), Amanda Holmes (Hayden), Johanna Hall (Trent); great-grandchildren, Kenzie, Klaire, and Knox Luigs, Rhett and Riggs Rittimann, Olivia Brewer, Holden and Payton Holmes, and Rielynn, Berkley, and Grayson Hall; brother, Emil Boehme; in-laws, Harold Huckle (Janell), John Coralls, and Alice Ray Boehme; as well as numerous nieces and nephews.
Virgil was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Anthony Boehme; sister, Mary Louise Echtle (William “Billy”); infant sister, Inell Boehme; sister-in-law, Betty Ann Coralls.
Visitation will be Monday, December 29, 2025 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 Tuesday, December 30, 2025 at St. Louis Catholic Church. Interment will follow at St. Louis Catholic Cemetery in Castroville, Texas.
Memorials may be made in Virgil’s memory to the Medina County Junior Livestock Show Association or to the charity of your choice.
Arrangements by Tondre-Guinn Funeral Home. www.tondre-guinn.com

It is with deep sorrow and much love that we mourn the passing of Eduardo Sepulveda, of Devine, Texas, on Sunday, December 14th, 2025, at the age of 80 years old. He passed away peacefully at the Heart to Heart Hospice House in San Antonio after facing dementia with incredible grace.
Ed was born in Devine to Eduardo and Elidia Sepulveda on November 13, 1945. He graduated from Natalia High School and quickly began his successful career at the VA Hospital where he retired with 36 years of service to the Government of the United States of America.
In 1968, he married his beloved wife, Alma Jaramillo Sepulveda , and together they raised 3 daughters.
Eddie was a devoted husband, a supportive father, and a doting grandfather. His family was the center of his world, and he instilled in his children the values of hard work, kindness, integrity, and the love for Jesus Christ. He was always available to share sound advice, had a strong shoulder to cry on, and faced life’s challenges with admirable courage. Ed was a devout Catholic and served briefly as a 4th degree Knight in the Knights of Columbus for St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic Church in Leon Springs.
Beyond his work and family, Ed had a passion for gardening and yard work. He took pride in a pristine manicured yard, his bright red tomatoes and finishing his chores just in time for the Dallas Cowboy game. He had a strong sense of humor, infectious laughter and his gentle spirit will all be deeply missed by all who knew him.
Ed was preceded in death by his parents, Eduardo (Mary Valle Sepulveda) and Elidia Sepulveda; brother, Alex Sepulveda; and sister, Olga Sepulveda.
He is survived by his loving wife of nearly 57 years, Alma Sepulveda; his children, Yvonne (Tito) Alvarado, Yvette (Jason) Gerlach, and Cyndi Sepulveda; as well as his cherished grandchildren, Aaron, Alyson, Angelina, Christian, Aleyna, Diego, and Aryanna ,and several great-grandchildren. He also leaves behind his sister Tillie Chapa of San Antonio, brother, Mike Sepulveda of Austin, and numerous nieces and nephews whom he cherished.
A Viewing will be held in his honor at Primrose Funeral Services in Devine on Monday, December 22, 2025 from 5:00 pm – 9:00 pm, with Rosary recited at 7:00 pm. Mass will be celebrated on Tuesday, December 23, 2025 at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church at 10:00 am. Interment will follow in St. Joseph’s Catholic Cemetery.
His fearless love, endless generosity, and guiding light will remain in our hearts forever.
If you would like to share a memory, or express your condolences, please do so at www.primrosefuneralservices.com
Arrangements are under the care of Primrose Funeral Services of Devine, Texas.