Joe Kent, 90, beloved father and Poppy, passed away on October 16, 2025. Born March 25, 1935, in Sweetwater, Texas, to Owen and Thelma Kent. He is survived by his daughter Janis Jenkins and her husband, Randall; his granddaughter Baylee Jenkins; and his grandson Logan Jenkins.

Joe graduated from Newman High School in Sweetwater and attended Hardin-Simmons University before joining the U.S. Air Force. He served in Korea and was a proud veteran. After his military service, Joe worked for Tom's Foods for 15 years, was self-employed for several years, and later worked for the City of San Angelo for 16 years before retiring. He married LaRae (Nix) on August 19, 1958. They shared 62 years of marriage until her passing in 2021.

Joe was a Master Mason in good standing and a valued member of Sweetwater Lodge No. 571 (Grand Lodge of Texas) for over 50 years. In his younger years, he enjoyed hunting, fishing, and camping, and he shared his love of the outdoors with his family at their cabin on Oak Creek Lake. After retiring, Joe became an avid amateur radio enthusiast, known by the call sign W5UI. He and LaRae traveled to many "swapfests," where ham radio operators would meet to exchange ideas and equipment, and they participated in several Field Day events with the San Angelo Amateur Radio Club. One of Joe's most memorable trips was to Lajitas, Texas, where he and fellow "hams" helped with the Lajitas Bicycle Challenge. He was also a member of the National Association for Amateur Radio for over 25 years.

Joe was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, LaRae; and his son, Gregg. He loved his family deeply and lived a full, good life. He was deeply loved and will be missed tremendously. His family takes comfort in knowing that he is in the arms of Jesus, reunited with LaRae and Gregg.

The family would like to thank Randi and Christina of Concho Hearts Hospice for their compassionate care and support.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to a charity of your choice.

Dr. Emma Jo Benson Sears passed away peacefully on October 15, 2025, in San Angelo, Texas, at the age of 83. She was born in Durant, Oklahoma, to Joe Horace and Alpha Fay Benson, and grew up in Fort Worth, Texas, where her lifelong devotion to service, education, and family began.

She was the beloved wife of Franklin “Frank” Neville Sears, who preceded her in death in 2021 after 58 years of marriage. Jo is survived by her children, Michael Sears of Carlsbad, Texas, and Jennifer Sears, along with son-in-law Mil Sneler and cherished granddaughter Claire Sears Sneler of Vilseck, Germany. She also leaves behind her beloved sister Sue McClure and husband Randy of Davis, Oklahoma, and many nieces and nephews from siblings Deloris Knight, Jim Benson, Bobby Benson, Benny Benson, and John Benson, who have gone before her.

A proud citizen of the Chickasaw Nation, Dr. Sears honored her heritage through education and advocacy. She established a nursing scholarship in memory of her grandmother, Janie Hardwick Benson, to support aspiring Chickasaw nurses. Her academic journey included degrees from Texas Christian University, the University of Texas at Arlington, and the University of North Texas. She served as a nurse, a Service Chief for the VA in Big Spring, Texas, and as a Professor of Nursing at Angelo State University in San Angelo—roles through which she touched countless lives with compassion and wisdom.

Jo was a faithful servant, a generous provider, and a passionate educator. She found joy in reading, watching game shows, and traveling throughout Europe. Her unwavering support for the military, TCU, Meals for the Elderly, and Salvation Army reflected her deep commitment to community and care. She briefly served as a Nurse in the Naval Reserves, before supporting her husband during his Air Force career.

Funeral services will be on Thursday, October 23, 2025 at 10am. A graveside service and burial will follow at Lawnhaven Cemetery by Harper Funeral Home in San Angelo, Texas, where she will be laid to rest beside her beloved husband.

Her legacy lives on in the lives she shaped, the family she loved, and the values she championed. She will be missed very much.

Ricky Rojas Urias, age 69, of Sterling City, Texas passed away on Tuesday, October 14, 2025. He was born on July 4, 1956 in San Angelo, Texas. 

Ricky attended Central High School and later went on to join the United States Army. After leaving the military, Ricky worked as a mechanic and eventually a welder at Hirschfeld Steel & Supply. He loved working on cars in his free time, always tinkering and toiling away. 

Ricky was preceded in passing by his parents, maternal grandparents, and paternal grandparents. 

Left to cherish Ricky's memory are his siblings, Alicia Silvas, Linda Padilla, and Aniseto Padilla III. He is also survived by several nieces, nephews, cousins, aunts, uncles, extended family, and friends. 

A rosary for Ricky will be held at 6PM on Friday, October 17, 2025 at Johnson's Funeral Home with Deacon Claudio Sanchez leading.

Jennifer Lynn Molina, 52, went to be with our Savior on Tuesday, October 14, 2025. She was born on June 21, 1973, at Lakenheath Air Force Base in England.

Jennifer was a devoted mother, a loving daughter, and a loyal friend whose heart was as big as her laugh. She found her greatest joy in being with her family, especially her beloved children, Matthew and Ashlynn, who were the light of her life. Though life placed limits on what she could do, Jennifer’s spirit was never confined. She never gave up.

She had a deep love for Tejano and 80’s music, and she never met a stranger. Jennifer had a gift for conversation and a passion for sharing her story with others. Her warmth, humor, and the way she lit up every room she entered will be cherished by all who knew her. 

Jennifer is preceded in death by her father, Frank L. Molina III. She is survived by her son, Matthew Garcia and his wife, Harley; her daughter, Marina “Ashlynn” Garcia and her fiancé, Jesus Rosales; her mother, Ester Blankenship, and stepfather, Lewis; her brother, Abel Molina (Sabrina) and her sisters, Tammy Hodge (Billy), Apolonia Sosa (Rubén) and Shelby Marquez (John). She is also survived by her special aunt and uncle, Martha and Gabe Peña and by many nieces, nephews, and cousins, all of whom she loved deeply. 

A Visitation / Rosary led by Deacon Jesse Martinez will be recited for Jennifer from 6-8 PM on Monday October 20, 2025 at Johnson's Funeral Home with a reception to follow until 10 PM at the San Angelo Performing Arts Center.

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Gaby Galvan. She peacefully left us on Friday, October 17, 2025 at the age of 57, after fighting a year-long battle with cancer. Gaby won that fight and is now in God's heavenly Kingdom where we all hope to join her. Gaby 's life, though challenged by physical limitations, was a testament to strength, resillience, and an unyielding spirit. While her wheelchair was a part of her, it never defined her. Gaby lived fully, creating a legacy of love, kindness, and creativity.

Gaby's passion for arts and crafts brought joy not only to herself byt to everyone she shared it with. She loved everything Disney. She had all the Disney movies and collectibles of which you can think. Her dream was to one day visit Disney Land. Gaby also loved Barbie, Betty Boop, Hello Kitty and collecting miniature figurines. She spent countless hours dressing up her American Girl dolls, a hobby that sparked her creativity and brought a sense of joy to her daily. Gaby's love for life also extended to shopping trips with her brother, Luis "Chino" Navarro - two inseperable companions whose bond was known by all. Together they brought smiles and warmth wherever they went, and their deep connection was a heartwarming example of sibling love. Her yorkie, J.Lo was always with her day and night.

A loving sister, aunt, and great aunt, Gaby was the cornerstone of her family. She played an instrumental role in raising her brother Luis, who has down syndrome, and was a devoted caregiver and guiding presence in his life. Gaby was also an ever-present figure for her nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews whom she was always willing to take care of, offering boundless affection and an open heart. Her home was a sanctuary of love and support, and she never once turned down a request for help, no matter how big or small. Her kindness knew no limits.

Gaby's legacy is none of love creativity compassion. Her memory will live on in the hearts of all who kknewher, especially her family. She will be dearly missed by her family and all those fortunate enough to call her a friend.

She is receded in death by her father, Jesus Alfonso Galvan Guillen and her mother, Felicitas Quintero Flores.

She is survived by sisters and brothers, Adriana Galvan Ponce, Rocio Galvan, Miguel Galvan, Luis "Chino" Navarro; her nieces, and nephews, Lizbeth Galvan Cepeda, Julie Mares, Araceli Mares, Cristian Mares, Luis Mares, Alexis Gonzales, Anthony Rey Gonzales, Angel Zaragoza, Alyze Gonzales, Pablo Castillo; and numerous great nieces and great nephews. And her precious companion, J.Lo.

Viewing will be from 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM on Monday, October 20, 2025 and on Tuesday, October 21, 2025 at Robert Massie Funeral Home. There will be a prayer service at 6:00 PM on Tuesday, October 21, 2025 at Robert Massie Riverside Chapel. Arrangements are under the direction of Robert Massie Funeral Home.

Mary Cecile Dietz Garcia, 91, passed away on Thursday, October 16, 2025.

Viewing will be from 12:00 PM - 8:00 PM on Friday, October 17, 2025 at Robert Massie Funeral Home. Graveside services will be at 2:00 PM on Saturday, October 18, 2025 at Calvary Cemetery. Arrangements are under the direction of Robert Massie Funeral Home.

Ms. Garcia was born on Cinco de Mayo, 1934 to Mary Enriquez Dietz. Mary lived in San Angelo her entire life and graduated from San Angelo Central High School. She was a member of St. Joseph Catholic Church and had worked at the San Angelo State School for over 20 years. Mary enjoyed reading, siting on her front porch, talking to neighbors, and spending time with her family and especially her grandchildren. She enjoyed traveling when possible, and going to Six Flags.

Those left to treasure her memory include daughters, Gloria Woods and husband Joe, Margaret Flores, and Tina Wood and husband James; sons, Cecil Dietz and wife Angie, and Albert Ray Garcia and wife Elkie; grandchildren, James Flores and wife Sascha, Sara Forney and husband Chris, Katherine Woods, Peter Woods, Joseph Woods, Joshua Dietz, Justin Dietz(Amanda) Alexandra Dietz, Jarred Whitlock and wife Courtney Zachary Whitlock and wife Hannah, Jimmy Wood, Renae Hoseason and husband Charles, Spencer Garcia, Isabelle Garcia, and Matthew Klein; 13 great grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by Salvador R. Garcia Sr. and all her siblings; sister, Anita Hernandez; brothers, Edward Dietz, Donnell Dietz, Fred Dietz, and Ralph Dietz; and a granddaughter, Lauren Garcia.

The family would like to thank Hospice of San Angelo for their comfort and support and hospice volunteer, Anita McDonald.

In Lieu of flowers please make a donation to your favorite charity, Meals for the Elderly, or Hospice of San Angelo

Larry Mathis, 83, passed away on Wednesday, October 15, 2025.

Graveside services will be at 2:00 PM on Monday, October 20, 2025 at Fairmount Cemetery. Arrangements are under the direction of Robert Massie Funeral Home.

Larry was born on July 15, 1942 in Plainview to Bill and Brenice Pyle Mathis. He married Janet "Edi" Chastin on April 22, 1960. She recently passed away on September 9, 2025 after 65 years of marriage. Larry's informal education came from trial and error and listening to others. He was a strong physical man, mostly due from stacking and hauling hay and loading and unloading trucks most of his life. He had a big heart, enjoyed fishing and tinkering outside. He was rarely found inside the house.

Larry is preceded in death by his wife; a daughter, Thonda Mathis; and a brother, Michale Mathis.

He is survived by his children, Danna Mathis of San Angelo and Billy Mathis of Amarillo; two grandchildren, Austin and Randa, and two great grandchildren Carter and Dean.

We are deeply saddened by the loss of Raul "Diego" Bermea, who passed away on October 4, 2025, at the age of 61.

A memorial celebration will be at 10:00 AM on Saturday, October 18, 2025 at Robert Massie Riverside Chapel. Arrangements are under the direction of Robert Massie Funeral Home.

Raul was born June 25, 1964 in San Angelo to Raul Bermea and Corine Munoz. In his prime, Diego was a well-known tattoo artist and gifted drawer, admired for his creativity and the stories he brought to life through his art. He had his troubles with drug addiction and mental illness, but he always carried a light within him, full of personality, humor, and an energy that could never be dimmed. His laughter, charm, and free spirit touched everyone who crossed his path.

Though he was not present in his children's lives, we believe it was his way of protecting them from his battles and helping to break the cycle of generational trauma. His children, Michael Bermea, Desiree Bermea, and Brandon Bermea, inherited the best parts of him: his charisma, his creativity, and his love for dancing and music. While we mourn the loss of what could have been, we choose peace and forgiveness, believing that he has finally found both.

Diego is also survived by his grandson, Zane Holmes, and granddaughters, Kaylea Bermea, Amelia Bermea, and Aveah Bermea, who each carry his light forward in their own special way.

He is now at peace and reunited with his beloved mother, Corine Ramos, who loved him with all her being.

Diego's journey wasn't easy, but it was real, full of lessons, love, and resilience. His story lives on in every smile, every song, and every bit of creativity passed down through his family.

May his soul rest peacefully, surrounded by the love he always carried within him.

Gary Lynn Whitaker, 67, of San Angelo, Texas, passed away peacefully on October 16, 2025, surrounded by his loved ones.

Born on December 16, 1957, to Joe Morris Whitaker and Evelyn Marie Eckert, Gary spent his life right where his heart belonged, in San Angelo, Texas. He built his life here, raised his family here, and devoted over 20 years of service to the City of San Angelo as a plumbing and mechanical inspector. Known for his strong work ethic and steady dependability, Gary took pride in a job well done and earned the respect of all who worked beside him.

Outside of work, Gary found his greatest joy in the simple, meaningful things: fishing at the “river place” with his beloved wife, Kim; spending time outdoors hunting; and sharing laughter and love with his grandchildren. He was an incredibly talented leatherworker and the kind of man who could fix anything around the house, a true craftsman in every sense.

Gary was the kind of man who showed his love through action. Whether it was a perfectly fixed project, a well-timed joke, or a helping hand, Gary’s humor, kindness, and infectious laugh left a lasting mark on everyone who knew him.

He is survived by his wife, Kim Bray Whitaker; his children, Brady Whitaker (wife Natasha), Katie Bloom, and Clay Bloom; his grandchildren, Harper Whitaker, Elliot Westbrook, and Charlotte Westbrook; and his sister, Tami Whitaker (partner Gale), along with many cousins and friends.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Joe and Evelyn Whitaker, and his brother, Randy Whitaker.

Gary’s legacy is one of love, laughter, and quiet strength. Let us all have a gentle reminder that a good life is built not by grand gestures, but by the steady rhythm of hard work, generosity, and devotion to family.

A celebration of Gary’s life will be held at Immanuel Baptist Church, 90 E. 14th St., San Angelo, TX, at 3:00 p.m. on Monday, October 20, 2025.

Vicki Marie Jessen, 66, of San Angelo passed away peacefully on October 16, 2025, surrounded by her loving family.

She was born Vicki Marie Henkhaus to Henry Joe and Patsy Jean Gandy Henkhaus on November 9, 1958, in San Angelo. She attended school in San Angelo and graduated from Lakeview High School. After graduation, she dedicated her time to being a wife and then raising her children as a single parent. She was the sole care giver to her son, Michael, for 21 years. He was diagnosed with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy, and she was there for him, even as he took his last breath. Vicki met her current husband, Mark Jessen, at a New Year’s Eve party and the two were married just 72 days later, on March 13, 1999.

Vicki was a wonderful wife, mother, nana, sister, aunt, and friend. She took excellent care of all of those that she loved. She is preceded in death by her parents, Henry and Patsy, and son, Michael.

Vicki is survived by her husband, Mark; daughter, Stacy Greaves and husband, Chad; granddaughter, Celie Dickey; sister, Patty Schniers; nephews, Randy Lacy and Bryan Lacy and wife, Monica; great nieces, Randi Taylor Harb, Skylar Lacy, and Gemma Lacy; great nephew, Kaden Stone; great great niece, Milli Harb; and her sweet dog, Bailey.

A memorial service will be held at 10:00 AM on October 21, 2025, at Harper Funeral Home Chapel with Chaplain Scott Melton presiding.

The family would like to thank Dr. Justin Jones and all the ICU staff of Shannon Medical Center and Hospice of San Angelo who stayed by her side and their side, every step of the way. Although they are heartbroken, they have peace and comfort knowing she is reunited with their beloved Michael.

Memorials may be made to West Texas Rehabilitation’s Center Hospice of San Angelo or the Muscular Dystrophy Association.