Goliad Funeral Home Obituaries

Obituary Preview: JAMES "JJ" LEROY JOHNSON JR., WAS BORN OCTOBER 3, 1964 IN GOLIAD, HE PASSED AWAY NOVEMBER 21, 2020 AT THE AGE OF 56.  HE WAS PRECEDED IN DEAH BY HIS PARENTS LEROY AND MILDRED JOHNSON, GRANDPARENTS WILLIAM AND STELLA DAVIS, IMA WHITFIELD AND CLYDE JOHNSON . MANY UNCLES AND AUNTS.  HE IS SURVIVED BY SISTERS NANCY (KIRK) LUBBOCK, BRENDA SHEBLAK , JENNIFER (LEIGHTON) LASSMANN, NIECE BETHANY (SEAN) WILLEMIN, NEPHEW DAKOTA SHEBLAK AND GREAT NIECE BRYNLEY. DAUGHTER REBECCA LYN JOHNSON (CAROLYN). JAMES WAS A BELOVED SON, BROTHER, FATHER, AND UNCLE. JAMES DROVE AN OILFIELD VACUUM TRUCK FOR BFI SERVICES , GOETZ SERVICES AND PRO FIELD SERVICES, JAMES WAS ALSO A MEMBER OF FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH OF GOLIAD.  IN LIEU OF FLOWERS DONATIONS CAN BE MADE TO HARBOR HOSPICE IN VICTORIA, TEXAS . FAMILY MEMORIAL SERVICE TO BE HELD AT A LATER DATE WITH PASTOR JAY FLEMING OFFICIATING.

Obituary Preview: Benny C. Martinez was born on January 4, 1934 in Goliad, Texas and was one of eleven children born to Placido Lozano Martinez and Paula Cabrera Cortinas.  Benny served in the U.S. Army, in Korea from 1957 – 1958 and from 1958 – 1962. He also served in the Reserves as a Medic at Fort Hood, Texas.  All seven brothers would serve in the US Army with four brothers serving in WWII.Benny was a descendant of the early Tejano ranching families, the De La Garza, Cabrera and Becerras, who established and settled Refugio and Goliad Counties.  His ancestors explored and settled in the Texas wilderness over 300 years ago.  Manuel Becerra, his paternal 3rd great grandfather, served as the first Ayuntamiento, (city Secretary) of Goliad in 1820 and held various public offices until 1835.   He was also a guide to Stephen F. Austin.  An Official Texas State Historical Marker documents his ancestor’s contributions and is located in front of the Presidio La Bahia in Goliad, Texas.  On his maternal line, Benny was a direct descendant of Juan Pedro Cabrera and Maria Rodriguez de Bega, from the Canary Islands, Spain, one of 15 families who helped establish a civil government in San Antonio de Bexar and who arrived, March 9, 1731.  Benny was a member of the Canary Islands Descendants Association in San Antonio, Texas.   Benny was also a member of the Sons of the Republic of Texas, San Jacinto Chapter and joined under his 2nd maternal great grandfather, Mariano Cabrera, who supplied beeves in 1835, per a Republic of Texas Pay Voucher to Captain Phillip Dimmitt issued to his ancestor on August 31, 1853.  Benny was very proud of his Tejano history and was proud to be a 9th generation Texan.Benny was a life member of the Veterans of Foreign War (VFW) Post 8930 in Houston, TX.  A member of the American GI Forum Lucian Adams Chapter, a member of the American Legion in Goliad, Texas and a member of the Knights of Columbus, Goliad, Texas.   He was also an honorary member of the Goliad Rotary Club.In 1967, Benny graduated from Houston Community College as a Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN).  In 1985, he obtained a Bachelor of General Studies Degree from the University of Houston Downtown College. ​ Benny worked for Harris County for a total of 35 years – thirty years as a nurse of which he worked twenty years in the psychiatric hospital, fifteen years in the Forensic Unit of Psychiatry. The last five years he worked as a Deputy Sheriff. When Benny retired from the County in 1997, he was honored with proclamations by both the county and city designating his retirement day as “Benny C. Martinez Day.” Benny was an Election Judge for thirty years in Voting Precinct 79 in the area of Denver Harbor, Houston, Texas.  He is a lifetime member of LULAC Council 60.   His grandmother was the President of the Woman’s LULAC Council #2 and later his father, Placido also joined LULAC.   Placido advocated for the Goliad schools be to integrated which was achieved in 1950.  In the late 1950’s, under the direction of Felix Tijerina, Judge Alfred Hernandez, Benny Martinez and LULAC Council 60 members started the Little School of the 400, which was designed to teach Non-English speaking Hispanic Children 400 English words.  The first program was implemented at a school in Ganado, Texas and the second one was in Sugarland, Texas.  By the late summer of 1958, there were nine schools throughout Texas.  When Lyndon Baines Johnson became President he implemented the school as the model for the Federal program “Head Start.” In 1965, LULAC Council 60 members created SER Jobs for Progress.  Benny’s brother Raul was President of Council 60 at the time and Benny was Vice President.  SER Jobs for Progress became so successful it was taken over by the Federal Government and was renamed SER which is a training center and a job placement center.Benny worked in historical preservation and as a Past President of the Tejano Association for Historical Preservation, Benny assisted in obtaining a historical marker for Felix Tijerina.  This official Texas State Historical marker was dedicated at Felix Tijerina’s flagship restaurant location at 904 Bagby, Houston, TX 77006, and dedicated on May 25, 2010.Benny was also instrumental in obtaining an official Texas State Historical Marker for LULAC Council 60 as historian for Council 60, he wrote and was their guardian of their history.  This history was reviewed and edited by Dr. Thomas Kreneck and submitted with the application.  The marker is located at 3004 Bagby, Houston, TX, 77006 and it was dedicated on Feb. 18, 2006.  Council 60 is now designated as a Historical Landmark in Houston, TX.   Through the efforts of Council 60 LULAC members, Benny’s older brother Raul Martinez was admitted and became the first Hispanic in the Houston Police Department. After retiring from H.P.D. Raul Martinez became the first elected Hispanic Constable for the newly formed Constable Precinct 6.  Through the efforts of Congresswoman Sylvia Garcia, who was then the County Commissioner, the Raul C. Martinez Court House, a County Court House Annex was named after his brother.  Benny would successfully advocate through committee meetings for an HISD elementary school to be named after Raul in Denver Harbor.   Benny’s brother Elias Martinez was the first Hispanic admitted into the Houston Fire Department. . Elias served about forty years with H.F.D. and there is a Fire Pumper Truck named after Elias at the Denver Harbor Fire Station #27. As a LULAC Council 60 member, Benny served as Chairman of the renaming of 69th St. to Staff Sgt. Macario Garcia, who was a WWII Medal of Honor recipient.  As President of the Tejano Association for Historical Preservation, he worked to change 67th St. to Cesar Chavez Blvd., which was celebrated on April 1, 2000, with four Congressional Medal of Honor Recipients serving as Grand Marshals in a parade held in Houston’s East End.  The keynote address was delivered by Dr. Andres Tijerina.  Benny also petitioned the City of Houston, City of Pasadena and City of La Porte to change Hwy 225 to Juan N. Seguin.  Honorable Mayor Lee Brown agreed as well as the council members and the 610 Loop before entering Hwy 225 was changed by the City of Houston to the Juan N. Seguin Interchange. State Rep Rick Noriega, and Senator Mario Gallegos assisted in his efforts in having the Park Road 1836 that leads up to the San Jacinto Monument renamed to Juan N. Seguin Blvd.   Benny also successfully advocated that HISD name an elementary school after the Tejano leader Juan N. Seguin. Benny served on the advisory committee and fundraising committee for ten years to erect a Tejano Monument recognizing the contributions of the Tejanos, Spanish and Mexican to Texas. On Dec. 12, 2003, Benny as President of the Tejano Association for Historical Preservation, requested the support of Houston Independent School District to collect pennies, nickels, dimes and quarters in support of the Tejano Monument.  The HISD School Board gave their approval and on April 20, 2004, 14,053.20 was donated by HISD school children and was donated for the Tejano Monument Project.  In 2004, Benny wanted to create public awareness and fund raising for the Tejano Monument on a statewide level, so he rode his beautiful horse, Brooke Shields, from Goliad, Texas to Austin, Texas stopping at schools along the way collecting donations and giving talks about the Monument.  After five days, of riding he arrived in Austin and was greeted by the legislatures who presented him with proclamations.  On May 29, 2009, at 10:45 a.m. Honorable Governor Rick Perry in a historic signing ceremony in the presence of the Tejano Monument Committee and elected officials, signed HB 4114 agreeing to place the Tejano Monument on the historic south lawn of the Capitol.  The Monument was emplaced on the grounds at the State Capitol in Austin, TX on March 29, 2012 and Benny sat in the front row center in a dedication ceremony that was witnessed by more than 2,000 attendees.   Benny has received numerous awards, the LULAC National Man of the Year, which he was awarded in 1996 in Boston, Massachusetts and in 2017, in San Antonio, TX, he was awarded the LULAC Elderly Person of the Year.  In 2007, he was recognized by Texas Education Agency State Board of Education in Austin, Texas and was awarded a Child Hero award for District 2.  His last award was presented by the General Zaragoza Society of Goliad Texas on Nov. 23, 2019.  Benny was presented the General Zaragoza Medallion to Benny Martinez and the inscription read, “To a Leader of the Highest Integrity and one to Emulate in Service and Citizenship.”Benny served as a past president and member of LULAC Council 21 in Goliad.   He raised money for scholarships by organizing hamburger sales and awarded the scholarships to school children.  Benny C. Martinez believed that his greatest accomplishment was being part of LULAC, participating in the education committee and awarding scholarships to Students.  Mr. Martinez stated that education opens the door to opportunities.Benny passed away on Dec. 29, 2019, in Olmito, Texas, at Sunshine Haven Special Care Facility with his ever-devoted daughter, Melinda Ortega by his side.  His daughter, Loretta Williams, had said her final goodbyes earlier with her husband David Williams and brother in law Gary Ortega. The family is indebted to the excellent care provided by at Sunshine Haven Special Care Facility, under the Executive Director, Veronica I. Lucio.  The family ask that in lieu of flowers donations can be mailed to Sunshine Haven, 7105 W. Lakeside  Olmito, TX 78575, so thatothers in need can continue to benefit from the excellent care of Sunshine Haven.Benny is preceded in death by Helen O. Martinez who passed away on July 1, 1976.   Surviving him is his oldest daughter, Loretta Williams, husband David Williams, granddaughters, Helen Williams, Catarina Clarkson and husband, Kyle Clarkson.  His youngest daughter, Melinda Ann Ortega, husband, Gary Ortega, Benjamin Kitchens, his spouse, Denise Pena Kitchens, great granddaughters, Kennedy Kitchens, Phoebe Kitchens; grandson, James Ortega, and granddaughter, Hilary Ortega.   Benny is survived by his wife, Rosemary Martinez, stepdaughter, Elizabeth Figueroa, her children, April Pina Figueroa, Frankie Figueroa, and grandchildren, Hilary and Jose Figueroa; stepdaughter Debbie and husband, Mark Rodriguez, their daughter Melissa Byers, grandchildren, Jordan, Jacob and Aubree; stepdaughter, Estella Becerra, her children, Lucas Flores, Roy Flores and Joel Becerra; and stepdaughter, Angela Perez.This past Sunday, Jan. 5, 2019, at the Goliad Funeral Home, Goliad, Texas, a rosary was led by Ramiro Rubio, Benny’s cousin and also a member of the Knights of Columbus, with over 100 in attendance.  A eulogy was delivered by Hernan Jaso, also a cousin of Benny and the ex-mayor of Goliad.  The family is appreciative of the efforts of the Goliad Funeral Home, and its Director, Adrian Fulton. Visitation for Benny will be at Forest Park Lawndale in Houston, TX.  beginning  Friday, January 10, 2020 at 5:00 P.M.   At 7 P.M. a military salute will be led by John Aleman, Captain, US AirForce American GI Forum, Lucian Adams Chapter.  Following the salute, a rosary will be recited[WL(1] . Mass will be celebrated by Rev. Henry B. Walker, O.M.I., Pastor at 10:00 A.M. at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church.  Interment will follow at 12:00 pm at Forest Park Lawndale Cemetery with full Military Services to be held under the Auspices of the Veterans of ForeignWar, Post 8930. Pall bearers will be Emmanuel Manzano, Benjamin Kitchens, James Ortega, Joey Cardenas III, Alfonso Maldonado III, Kyle Clarkson, with honorary pall bearers, Jim Patrick Albert Harris andRoy Martinez. "The Lord is my shepherd, I have everything I need, HE lets me rest in fields of green. HE leads me to quiet pools of fresh water. HE gives me new strength. HE guides me in the right paths as HE promised. Even if I go through the deepest darkness, I will not be afraid, LORD, for you arewith me.

Obituary Preview: Bennie Flores Sr., 92, of Goliad passed away July 20, 2019. He was born in Goliad to Rosa Ramirez Flores and Dioncio Flores on August 27, 1926. He loved to hunt, fish, and tend to his garden.Bennie Flores is preceded in death by his parents; Rosa and Dioncio Flores, sisters; Solia Briones, Herminia Sandoval, brothers; Fidencio Flores and Dioncio Flores Jr. He is survived by his daughters; Odelia Rodriguez, Rosa Linda Becerra, Sylvia Kibler, son; Bennie Flores Jr., Grandchildren: Cindy Rodriguez, David Rodriguez, Ruben Rodriguez Jr., Jennifer Becerra, Eric Becerra, Amy Kibler-Reyes, and 6 great grandchildren.Pallbearers; Tomas Becerra, Eric Becerra, Ruben Rodriguez Jr., David Rodriguez, Kaleb Rodriguez and Dioncio (Don) Flores.Visitation will be Tuesday, July 23, 2019 at Goliad Funeral Home on 414 W. Ward St. Goliad, TX from 6 PM-9 PM with Rosary recited at 7 PM. Mass will be held 10 AM on Wednesday, July 24, 2019 at Immaculate Conception Church 238 N. Commercial St. Goliad, TX with burial to follow at Flores Cemetery.Funeral Services Entrusted to Goliad Funeral Home 361-645-1104.

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Obituary Preview: James Lott, affectionally known as "Dale", "L. J" and "Dalle' Boy", was born to the late Jim and Bernice (Billups) Lott on January 20, 1940. On Sunday, March 4, 2018, at the age of 78, God called "Dale" to move to his new address in God's Heavenly Kingdom.Dale attended school at Goliad Colored Schools, F. W. Gross High School and other area school systems during the pre-integration era.He attended Minnehulla Baptist Church as a young boy. Later when Dale expressed his belief in Jesus Christ, he was baptized by Rev. Harry Williams and became a member of Minnehulla.He leaves to cherish his life, his love, and his memory: a son, James Lott Jr., sisters: Vernell Lott and Amy Lott Williams of San Antonio, Texas and Dorothy Avery of Goliad, Texas, and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.Dale was preceded in death by his parents: Jim and Bernice Lott, sisters: Bernice, Fannie, Nannie, and Myrtle Lott and brothers: Jim, Luther, Thomas, and Paul Lott.A viewing will be on Friday, March 9, 2018 beginning at 6 pm at the Goliad Funeral Home, 414 W. Ward Street in Goliad, Texas. A viewing will also be on Saturday, March 10, 2018 from 9-10 a.m. with funeral services beginning at 10 a. m. at Minnehulla Baptist Church with Dr. Ira E. Antoine, Jr. as officiating minister and eulogist. Internment will be at The Sapenter Cemetery in Goliad, Texas. All viewing will be prior to funeral.

Obituary Preview: Juanita "Janie" Vaquera Flores, 56, of Goliad, passed away on Friday, January 12, 2018. She was born in Laredo, TX on April 13, 1961 to the late Ramon and Emma Vaquera. Janie was a retired cook, a homemaker and dedicated her life to her kids and grandchildren.She is preceded in death by her husband, Gonzalo Flores Sr.; parents, Emma and Ramon Vaquera; and sister, Alicia Vaquera.She is survived by her daughter, Vanessa Marie Flores, sons, Gonzalo (Gaby) Flores and John Angel Maturey, her sisters, Martha (Carlos) Ortiz, Laura Loya, Leticia (Alfredo) Quirroz, brothers, John (Angie) Vaquera and Jesse (Melissa) Vaquera and Grandchildren, Gonzalo Flores Ill, Layton Padron, Destiney Capistran, Davanne Bonds, Deziah Perry, Mia Ramirez, and Paloma Ramirez. She is also survived by numerous nieces and nephews.Visitation will begin at 4:00 p.m. with a Rosary to be recited at 7:00 p.m. on Wednesday, January 17, 2018 at Goliad Funeral Home. Funeral Services will be at 10 a.m. on Thursday, January 18, 2018 at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church with Father Charles officiating. Burial will follow at Flores Cemetery.

Obituary Preview: Gonzalo R. "Gunzi' Hernandez died peacefully at home surrounded by his family on January 6, 2018 in Goliad, TX at the age of 90. He was known as a kind and gentle man, Gonzalo is survived by his wife, Amelia "Mable"; children, Yvonne Rangei (Luz) of Goliad, Donna Boyer-Straub of Goliad, Mark Hernandez (Angela) of Goliad, Alisa Hernandez of San Antonio and sister, Margarita Baldez of San Antonio. He is preceded in death by his parents and inqavvs, first wife Otilia, grandson Roland Anthony Camacho, son-in-taw Bruce Straub, son Clifford Boyer, brother-in-law Jose A. Pompa, siblings Guadalupe, Mitchell, Ben R., Joe, Juan, Richard, Rita Cardosa and Otilia Mora,Gonzalo was born on January 10, 1927 on a ranchito in La Bahia, TX to parents Juan and Inez Rubio Hernandez. He was drafted for World War Il during his senior year in high school. He served in the United States Army. He would later receive his high school diploma from Goliad ISD in April 2002. He married Amelia Pompa in 1966. They created a loving family and were happily married for 51 years. He began working for Goliad ISD and retired after 25 years. During his years with GISD, he shuttled generations of Goiiad County children to school. He, then, worked for Texas Parks and Wildlife at the Goliad State Park and retired after almost 20 years of faithful services His beautiful legacy includes grandchildren Lorindm Luiz, Shane, Jenna, Christopher, Aimee, Brandon, Marlee, John David, Catherine, Rebecca and Oliver. He also had 16 great grandchildren and 1 great great grandchild. He leaves behind numerous nieces and nephews.Gonzalo created art by upcycling with found objects and gardening with his green thumb. He took pride in maintaining his beautiful lawn, pecan tree and roses. He was an avid coin collector. He enjoyed watching sports and was a longtime Dallas Cowboys, Houston Astros and San Antonio Spurs fan. He loved to gamble and play a good game of poker. He was a member of h-nmacuiate Gonception Catholic Church.Visitation will be on Wednesday; January 10, 201 8 at 6:00 PM at the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church with the rosary to follow at 7:00 PM. A funeral is scheduled for Thursday, Januaty 11 , 2018 at 10:00 AM at the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church with burial at Glendale Cemetery. A reception will follow at the Parish Hall. Fr. Roger Hawes will officiate the ceremony. Pallbearers are Felix "Chano" Eiizondo, Hernan Jaso, Julian Flores, JR Villegas. Roland Mora Christopher Garza, Kevin Fiores and Rudy Lee Mandujano. Honorary pallbearers include his longtime co-worker at the Goliad State Park, Billy Flores and his godchildren, JoAnn Ybarbo, Robert Edison, Frank Garcia, Grace Elizondo, Joe Lee Rangel, Arturo Cano, Josh Flores, Aaron Garza and Kaleb Villegas. All are welcome to attend and celebrate Gonzalo's iife. lieu of flowers, send donations to St. Jude Children l s Research Hospital. The family would like to thank Hospice of South Texas for their tremendous care and support.

Obituary Preview: CUERO – Roy Heine Jr., 76, beloved husband, father, brother, uncle and grandpa (Pop) went to be with the Lord on June 6, 2016.Roy was born on August 12, 1939 to Roy Heine Sr. and Velma Pauline Heine both deceased.  Roy was preceded in death by his loving wife “Kitty” Lillian Heine.Dear father of Jenelle Kunkel and Russell Heine, and brother to Don Heine and James Heine.Roy was preceded in death by his three sisters, Juanelle Haskell, Pauline Wood and Judy Prince.Loving Grandfather to Paul Kunkel, Calvin Kunkel, Kathaleen Greenwood (Landon), Jerod Heine, Clyde Carmody (Molly), Jessica Bannon (Mike) and Rachael Wagner (Chad).  Roy will be missed by his good friend and son-in-law Michael Kunkel.  Roy was a dear uncle to his wonderful nieces and nephews.He is also survived by his great grandchildren Kassidy, Cole, Brayden, Madison, Jaxen, Jacob, Delyn, CheyAnne, Kiley, Nathan, and Cody.Roy was a life-long member of the Church of Christ.  He was a devoted Mason of the Norton Moses Lodge #336 from 1975 and served as Past Master in 1980/81. Roy was in the US Air Force from 1958 to 1961 as a flight line mechanic and crew chief.Roy held a CDL license and spent many years driving haul trucks with his wife Kitty by his side. In later years he was successfully self-employed doing excavation work and was a licensed heavy equipment operator, clearing land, building lakes and roads.  His favorite pastimes were hunting and fishing and watching the stock car races, especially with his grandchildren.Visitation will be held Monday , June 13, 2016 from 9 am to 6 pm at Goliad  Funeral Home Chapel. Family will be in attendance from 4 pm to 6 pm.  The Funeral Servies will be held on Tuesday, June 14, 2016 at Goliad Funeral Home  at 10 am. Burial will follow at Seaside Memorial Gardens Cemetery in Corpus Christi, Texas (4357 Ocean Drive)  “Kitty’s cousin Frank Berthold, minister of the Church of Christ in San Angelo will officiate.Pallbearers are Michael Kunkel, James Heine, Don Prince, Robert DeLaGarza, Ruben San Miguel , Paul Kunkel and Calvin Kunkel. To leave a comforting message or share a fond memory, please go to www.goliadfuneralhome.com

Obituary Preview: James T. Moses, 90 of Goliad died on June 3, 2016 in San Antonio surrounded by his family.He was the son of James Lee and Annie Catherine (Brawley) Moses.  He was born in Floydada, TX on April 28, 1926.He is survived by: his wife of 66 years, Grace E. Moses, a son, James R. Moses (Cherie) and a daughter Rebecca J. Smith (Tommy), three grandchildren, Michelle Smith, Walt Smith (Nikki) and Justin Moses (Carla), and three great grandchildren, Starlie, Peter and Malin.  Survivors also include one brother, Billy Jean Moses (Alene) one sister, Betty Bax and numerous brother and sister in laws who loved him like a brother.James was a veteran, having fought in World War II in the Navy aboard the USS Bladen.  He was also a River Rider for the Tick Force, riding many hours along the U.S./Mexico Border, an Investigator for USDA/APHIS, a cattleman and a loving father and grandfather. He was a proud member of the Goliad Church of Christ.Services will take place on Wednesday June, 8th 2016 at the Goliad Funeral home at 10:00 am.  Burial will follow at the Glendale Cemetery in Goliad, TX.

Obituary Preview: Boyer, Clifford G., 54, of Goliad died on May 18, 2016 in Goliad. He was the son of Gonzalo and Mable Hernandez. Clifford wasborn in Goliad on August 29, 1961. He is survived by his parents; a son, Brandon Boyer (Elizabeth); daughters, Aimee Boyer (Greg), Marlee Boyer (Daniel) and three grandchildren, Brodie, Ava and Emma, a brother; Mark Hernandez (Angela), sisters; Yvonne Rangel (Luz), Donna Boyer Garza, Dawn Sellers, Susan Boyer, Beth Barnard (Allen), Lisa Flores (Ramon), Jennifer B Cowart,and Alisa Hernandez. A Rosary will be recited on Sunday, May 22, 2016 at the ImmaculateConception Catholic Church in Goliad at 7 PM. Fr Ralph Baidoo will officiate the Funeral Mass to be held on Monday, May 23, 2016 at theImmaculate Conception Catholic Church in Goliad at 10 AM.Burial will follow at Glendale Cemetery in Goliad. GOLIAD FUNERAL HOME

Obituary Preview: Vivian Walker Rawlins, a long time resident of Goliad, Tx, was reunited with the love of her life, Guy Robert Rawlins, Jr. on Monday, May 9, 2016. They had been apart just a few days shy of 25 years and after living so many years as a widow, Vivian was peacefully called home. Born in Edna, Tx, to Ivy Vivian Yearwood and Avery Duke Walker, Vivian loved her family and her faith. She loved to reminisce about her childhood, climbing trees and fences and watching the ice being delivered in large blocks. She loved to tells stories about her large family - the Yearwood’s and the Walker’s - and looked forward to the annual family reunions and summer trips to Camp Bean to float down the Guadalupe River. She loved to remember her first date with Guy which always made her remember hearing about her Daddy seeing her Momma for the very first time at a country dance. She loved holding her babies, grand-babies and great-grand-babies and her heart ached as she became too weak to carry them any more. She is survived by her brother, A.D. Walker and his wife, Patricia; her daughter, Dorothy Dawn Cosper-Carter; her sons, Guy Robert Rawlins III and Duane Rawlins; 8 Grandchildren, Renee, Chance, Laura, Rhonda, Chris, Robert, Liz and Elizabeth; 12 Great-Grandchildren; 3 Great-Great-Grandchildren and many close cousins, nieces, nephews and friends. She will be loved and missed by all.

Obituary Preview: Jewel Bego Strong of Fannin, died on April 28, 2016 in Fannin . She was born in Fannin on February 1, 1921,to Roscoe and Pauline Hoff Bego. Jewel was a loving wife, Mother, daughter and sister to her family. She strived to make her home full of Love,Laughter, and great food.  She was a faithful volunteer in her church, Goliad Historical Commission and other local events.Jewel is survived by, Daughters; Myra S Heard (Allen), Cynthia S Barfield (Bennie), Sister-in-Law; Mary Bego, Granddaughter, Alana S Barfield, Nieces; Debra Gamblin, Karen Thompson, Lea Chambers, Nephews; Pat Bego, Gary Bego and their families.She is preceded in death by her parents, Husband of 63 years, Edward "Red" Strong, Jr., Brothers; Leland (Marjorie) Bego, Woodrow (Polly) Bego, Bill (Joy) Bego and Harold Bego.The family will have a Graveside Service Monday and a Memorial Service on Friday, May 6, 2016 at 11:00 am at Fannin United Methodist Church.A Special Thanks to our Longtime Care Givers, Kittye Bland and Sue Carter Williams and Isabel Gonzales.Memorials may be made to Fannin United Methodist Church, Fannin Volunteer Fire Department or Hospice of South Texas.

Obituary Preview: GOLIAD - James Henry "Jim" Young - Goliad Blacksmith. After a long battle with Alzheimer's Disease, Jim was promoted to glory on Monday, March 28, 2016 at the age of 90.  Jim was born January 20, 1926 to Marshal and Mary Angeline Williams Young.  He married Shirley A. Campbell on November 3, 1955 and had 2 children:  David James Young and Jill Ann Young McKinney, husband Steve, all of Goliad. Jim is survived by his wife and children, 3 granddaughters, 7 greatgrandchildren and brother Ralph Young all of Goliad.  He was preceded in death by his parents, brothers Wilburn, J.D., Melvin, and Herman and one sister, Verna Mae Cunningham. As a Veteran of World War II, Jim served in the European Theater as a Forward Scout under George Paton, and in February 1944 received an Honorable Discharge along with several medals including the Bronze Star. Since 1960, Jim was well known in the south Texas region as the Goliad Blacksmith.  As a blacksmith, he was featured in several TV network documentaries and news paper articles.  He was devoted to using his gifts with iron work to serve the farmers and rancher in Goliad and surrounding counties, as well a the City, County, and GISD. His life was centered on and around his family, his work, friends, fishing, hunting and a hot cup of coffee. In 2010, he was presented The Lifetime Achievement Award by the Goliad County Chamber of Commerce for his work in the community and devout love for his home town. Visitation for friends and family will be Thursday, March 31st at 5:00pm; a memorial service with military honors to follow at 6:00pm at Goliad Funeral Home. Memorial Contributions may be made to: American Legion Post 193 PO Box 5l Goliad, TX 77963

Obituary Preview: David Valtine Vorpahl, Jr., 66, of Upper Meyersville passed away on Saturday, March 19, 2016. He was born on July 18, 1949 in Sequin to the late Hermine Barkmeyer and David V. Vorpahl, Sr.He graduated from Goliad High School in 1967 and served in the United States Navy as an E5 Engine Mechanic during the Vietnam War. He was employed for 32 years as a Produce Manager for HEB. After retiring, he opened David and Son in Upper Meyersville.On August 21, 1971 he married Barbara Ann Arnold at St Mary's Cathoilic Church in Victoria. They Celebrated their 44th anniversary in August and have two children, Kelly Vorpahl Walters and Brad Vorpahl.David was preceded in death by his parents and his sister, Elizabeth Vorpahl McDonald.He is survived by his wife, Barbara; daughter, Kelly and husband Brian Walters; son, Brad David Vorpahl; and eight grandchildren, Brandon Walters, Lana Walters, John Vorpahl, Zachary Walters, Blake Vorpahl, Caitlyn Walters, Collin Walters, and Lauren Walters..Survivors  also include stepfather, Robert Schwarzkopf; sisters, Janiece Schwarzkopf and Judy Moreno and husband Shaun; brother, Gary  Schwarzkopf and Crystal; and numerous nieces and nephews.A memorial mass will be held at 10 am at Sts Peter and Paul Catholic Church in Meyersville on Monday, March 28, 2016. Donations can be made in his memory to Sts Peter and Paul Catholic Church. Under the direction of Goliad Funeral Home, 361-645-1104.

Obituary Preview: Dulce Nallely Cumpean Camacho, 23 passed away January 12, 2015, Nallely, like the Cumpean family called her was a very loving and caring mother who loved her children with all her heart.  A year after her death, the Cumpean family can finally put her remains at rest along with her three children Xavier Sierra and Faith. The Cumpean family will being having a funeral mass January 15, 2016 at 6 PM with father Tommy Chin officiating at our lady of gulf Catholic Church in Port LaVaca Texas the Cumpean family would like to thank everyone that supported him during this time of sorrow.  Zavier Ryan Camacho, 4, passed away January 12, 2015 Xavier was the Cumpean family's little cowboy, a very happy, lovable, kindhearted little boy.Ciara LeAnn Camacho, 1,  passed away January 12, 2015 Ciara was a very outgoing little girl who learn to walk before the age of one because she wanted to be a big girl to follow her big brother Xavier Faith Nicole Camacho, three months, passed away January 12, 2015. Faith was a very cheerful newborn who spent most of the time awake putting a smile on the Cumpean family’s faces every time she smiled at them. Though they didn't get to enjoy her long she will live in their hearts a lifetime.

Obituary Preview: Hortense  (Momo) Aguayo, 72, of Goliad, Texas passed away Saturday, November 28, 2015. She was born on February 22, 1943 in Victoria, Texas to the late Domingo and Aururo Montes.Hortense is survived by her daughters; Alice (Rudy) San Miguel, Ann Hernandez and Elaine Humphrey, Sisters; Rachel Gamez and Stella (Manuel) Peralez, Brother, Domingo Montes, Grandchildren; Leticia Zielonka, Andy Pompa, Joe Hernandez, Angel Martinez and Mariah Humphrey and eight Great Grandchildren.Visitation Will be held Thursda;y, December 03, 2015 at 7:00 PM with a Rosary to follow at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Goliad, TX. Funeral Mass will be on Friday, December 04, 2015 at 10:00 AM with Father Ralph officiating. Burial will follow at Glendale Cemetery.Pallbearers will be Rudy San Miguel, Jimmy Castro, Endalesio (Andy) Pompa, Ralph Montez, Joe Hernandez, Sr and Benioto Garza. Honorary Pallbearers: CJ's Mini Mart and Dlass Cowboy Clients. GOLIAD FUNERAL HOME

Obituary Preview: Travis Lee Clayton 32, died September 14, 2015.Travis was born October 13, 1982 in Elk City, Oklahoma.He is survived bu his daughter, Eternity Nichole; two sons, Marious Deon and Lastat Leon; his father, Marvin Don Clayton; and mothers, Sandra and Venicia.He was blessed with nine brothers and sisters, Ronald Michael, Melinda, Crystal, Candice Clayton, Clint and Ashley Carlton, Michael and Troy Morey.Travis attended PSJA High School in San Juan, Texas.Per his wishes a party to celebrate his life will be held Ovtober 3, 2015 at the Blanconia HayBarn.Travis always lived life on his terms.

Obituary Preview: Iola ''PEGGY" Pena, 82, of Goliad passed away on Saturday, Sept. 12, 2015 in Yorktown .Peggy was born June 01, 1933 in Hopewell, Alabama to Cleveland and Mamie Wester. She is survived by her husband, Gilbert Pena; daughter, Reanee Koch (Max); son, Randy Rhodes (Cindy);8 grandchildren and a host of friends.Peggy was preceded in death by her parents, 2 sisters and 3 brothers. A memorial service will be held at Goliad Funeral Home Chapel on Thursday, Sept 17, 2015 at 5 pmwith Rev. John Muhler officiating.

Obituary Preview: An obituary is not available at this time for Orville C Koehler, Sr..

Obituary Preview: Maria T. Perez of Goliad died on August 31, 2015 in Victoria, Texas. She was born on October 12, 1952 in Alice, Texasto the late Andres and Leonor San Miguel Charles Perez.Marias is survived by her daughters, Angelica Perez (Robert), and Rosario Hernandez (Rey) ; sons Andres Perez (Sunni) and Juan Trevino (Katrina); a brother Ramireo Pena (Maria Elena); 13 grandchildren and numerous great-grandchildren.Visitiation/Rosary will be held on Wednesday, September 2, 2015 at 7pm at Goliad Funeral Home Chapel. Fuenral will be held on thursday, September 3, 2015 at 10am at Goliad Funeral Home Chapel. with Fr Bill Morman officaiting.

Obituary Preview: Dr Clyde T Holcomb, Jr, of Goliad, passed away Thursday, August 06, 2015. He was born November 07, 1922 in Commerce, Tx to Clyde and Eldora Holliman Holcomb. Clyde was a Navy Pilot in WWII. He was a well loved dentist in Goliad for many years. He is survived by his wife, Mary Garcia Holcomb, daughters Judi Habern, and Julie Hart (Dr. Rick), sons, Clyde Thomas Holcomb III (Phyllis) and Dr Timothy L. Holcomb (Tammie),  11Grandchildren and 4 Great-Grandchildren. Clyde was preceded in death by 1 sister and 2 brothers. Services will be held at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Goliad on Saturday, August 08, 2015 with Rosary at 1 pm and Funeral Mass at 2 pm withFr. Bill Morman officiating. Military Honors and flag presentation by American Legion will follow the service.