On July 9, 2024, not only did we lose a loved one, but we lost a friend to all. Erin Kay Porter McLaurin was in an ongoing battle with cancer for six years. She was born on June 23, 1981, in San Angelo, TX to Alvin Dale Porter and Vicky Lynn Porter. Erin graduated from Central High School in 1999 and married her husband, Christopher McLaurin, in 2003. Together they had 3 children and 1 angel child: Kyrus, Logan, Taylor & Kylee.

Erin was an astonishing woman who enjoyed playing fast pitch softball for the Central Lady Cats and being at the lake with her friends and family with the windows down and the radio up. A few interesting facts about Erin is her favorite color is pink and her favorite flower was a Sunflower. If you have ever made it over to Erin’s house you would know she had a love for crosses, sugar skulls and her furry best friend, Fat Boy.

Erin Kay Porter McLaurin is survived by her husband Christopher McLaurin, children: Kyrus McLaurin, Logan McLaurin, and Taylor McLaurin, her mother, Vicky Porter, brother Micheal wife Pamela Porter, along with numerous aunts, uncles and cousins. She also had a few very close friends that she considered family.

She is preceded in death by her dad, Alvin Porter, Daughter, Kylee McLaurin, grandparents, Nelson & Frances Alexander, Delton & Dixie Porter.

We would also like to give a special thanks to Bailey, Nicole, and Sarah and all the nurses and staff at Interim Hospice, as well as a special thank you to close friends that where there for her until the end.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, July 20, 2024, at Harper Funeral Home at 10:30 AM.

Janice Gail (Phillips) Watson, formerly of Wichita Falls, Texas, passed away July 3, 2024, at the age of 83 years old in San Angelo, Texas, with her beloved husband and daughters by her side.

Janice was born to Herbert Lee and Neva (Moon) Phillips on October 15, 1940, in Centralia, Illinois. Life is easier when you have a companion, and her sister, best friend and partner in crime, Lana Lee (Phillips) Lewis arrived soon after. Together they tackled life’s challenges that led them to become the head strong, independent and successful women they were. Their childhood wasn’t limited to St. Louis, they also grew up in Wichita Falls.

The spirit of her life is felt in her childhood stories of picking berries and riding Dixie, her favorite horse, during summers spent with Lana and their cousins at the Eisenberg Farm in Taylor, Missouri. Her eyes would sparkle each time she spoke of baseball games with her Daddy and sister, cheering on the Brooklyn Dodgers and her hero, Jackie Robinson. One of her favorite teenage memories from a summer in Wichita Falls was when her friend Gayle and sister Lana talked her into seeing an up-and-coming singer that was playing on the back of a flatbed truck. Janice asked who? The year was 1955 and that young man was Elvis Presley. She and Lana became fans forever. These are just a few of the high-lights of her adventure filled life.

It was in St. Louis, Missouri that Janice met the love of her life, Eddie L. Watson and after a whirlwind courtship they were married July 23, 1958. In 1959, Daughter #1, Vicki C. (Watson) Keck was born in St. Louis, Missouri. Ten years later, Daughter #2, Kheva Renee’ (Watson) Flowers was born in Wichita Falls, Texas.

Like life does, things change and settles down with marriage, parenting, working and developing other interests. She enjoyed studying and documenting her family history. She loved the details of her past and seeing the connections to her present. She had many jobs in her life but found her career later in life. Janice worked for Mike and Diane Shallenberger for nearly 30 years. As executive property manager for Truity Capital, she handled dozens of accounts and an office full of personnel. Mike described her as the most professional and loyal person that he ever had the pleasure of working with. Janice was a human dynamo. She was driven and hard working. She became a part of their family and they loved her dearly as she did them.

Janice was a devoted wife and mother who loved her family fiercely. Her true joy came with the births of her five grandchildren and that joy expanded with the births of her great grandchildren.

She is survived by her husband of 66 years, Eddie L. Watson, of San Angelo, Texas; her daughters, Vicki Keck of San Angelo, Texas and Kheva Flowers of Austin, Texas. She is survived by her grandchildren Mark Keck, Jr. and wife, Tera, of Boston, Massachusetts; Cassie Garrison and husband, Landon, of San Angelo, Texas; Kinsey Keck, of New York, New York; Tyler Travis of Seguin, Texas and Brady Flowers and wife, Haley, of Holliday, Texas. She is also survived by her great-granchildren, Calin, Drew and Maverick Garrison, Lilah Keck, Tanner and Slone Travis and Jolee and Allie Flowers.

Janice was one of a kind. We will miss her forever. In lieu of flowers, please make donations in her honor to Hospice of San Angelo, 1933 University Avenue, San Angelo, Texas. Her family would like to express their gratitude for the wonderful and compassionate care Janice received.

The family will have a private memorial service to honor Janice's life at a later date.

Romeo Jerry Perotti passed away quietly on July 4, 2024, with family by his side. He was born in San Angelo, Texas July 20, 1938, to Romeo and Mary Perotti of San Angelo. Romeo loved to bowl and had considered going Pro in his early twenties. He lived a quiet life after his wife Shirley (Sam) of nearly 30 years passed away in 2005. He loved to play Texas Hold’ em Poker and would often go to Windstar to play. He is survived by his daughter Debbie Alvarez and husband Jesse of Fort Worth, son Kevin Perotti his wife Maria also of Fort Worth, and grandchildren David Alvarez and wife Jennifer, of San Antonio, Dr. Valerie Alvarez of Fort Worth and Anthony Perotti of South Dakota. He has three great grandchildren Isabel, Elena and Bennett. There will be no Memorial Service or interment. 

The family wishes to express sincere thanks and gratitude to Hospice of San Angelo for their compassionate care during his passing. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Concho Valley Regional Food Bank.

Richard Rodriguez Fernandez, 64, passed away on July 3, 2024, with his family by his side.

Richard was born on August 26, 1959 in San Angelo, TX to Juan and Anita Fernandez. He grew up in San Angelo and graduated from Central High School in 1977. Richard then attended Angelo State University where he earned his Bachelor's degree in Government.

Richard began his career with the Texas Department of Public Safety where he served as a State Trooper for 26 years before retiring as a Lieutenant in Narcotics. 

During this time, Richard married Elaine Contreras where he raised one step-daughter, Laurie Estrada.

Richard was a member of the Concho Valley Law Enforcement Lions Club for several years. In his spare time, Richard enjoyed being outside where he could fish, walk, and spend time with his grandsons.

There will be a viewing on Tuesday, July 9th from 6:00 - 8:00pm at Johnson's Funeral Home. A graveside service will be held on Wednesday, July 10th at 10:00am at Calvary Cemetery, under the direction of Johnson's Funeral Home.

Richard is preceded in death by his parents.

Richard is survived by his wife, Elaine; Laurie Carpenter (step-daughter) and her husband, Chris; Fred Fernandez (brother); Mary Soto (sister); John Fernandez (brother); Eva Hollingsworth (sister) and her husband, Ron; Randy and Zachary Carpenter (grandsons); Dustin Hollingsworth (nephew); Freddie Fernandez (nephew); Gilbert Soto (nephew); Corina Galvan (niece); and many cousins, friends, and associates!

The family would like to thank those that have been a comfort and support by offering their sympathy, prayers, and delicious meals.

Eida Salinas Diaz, a devoted mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend, passed away peacefully, surrounded by her children, on July 3, 2024, at the age of 86. Her kind heart, infectious sense of humor, and unwavering dedication to her family and passions will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

Born on November 2, 1937, in Progreso Coahuila, Mexico, Eida was the loving daughter of Guillermo Salinas Casares and Zapopan Riojas Zalazar, and the cherished sibling to eight others. She is survived by her children: Rafaela, Esteban and his wife, Linda, Esmerejildo, Jaime and his wife, Yanet; Her grandchildren: Christina and her husband, Ricardo, Steven and his wife, Paula, Daniela, Miguel, James, Alexandra, Brookelynn; Her great-grandchildren: Esteban, Pablo; Her siblings: Heriberto and his wife, Isabela, Eduardo, Eliezer and his wife, Gloria, Rosa, Elsa and her husband, Guillermo. She is preceded in death by her parents, her siblings, Teresa and her husband, Paz, Edelmira, Manuel and his wife, Teresa; her grandchildren: John William Tinney, and Elizabeth Marie Tinney; her sister-in-law, Rosalinda and her brother-in-law, Filiberto.

Eida found joy in simple pleasures. She had a passion for painting, knitting, crocheting, gardening, sewing, and walking. Each activity was not just a hobby but a reflection of her creative soul and deep connection to nature. Sewing brought her joy in crafting practical yet beautiful dresses. She found joy in capturing both serene landscapes and people through her paintings. Her hobbies reflected her deep appreciation for life's simple yet profound pleasures.

Eidas’s greatest pride and joy were her four children— Rafaela, Esteban, Esmerejildo, and Jaime, instilling in her children the values of kindness, resilience, and love. Her children remember her as a patient, caring, and devoted mother who always put their needs above her own. Her children would like to extend a sincere thank you to Eida’s dear friend, Mariela, for all of her love and friendship she showed her.

Eida’s kindness and love for her children were among her most endearing qualities. She dedicated her life to creating a loving and supportive home, always bringing warmth and joy to their lives. Her unconditional love was a source of comfort and strength, creating cherished memories that will forever live on in the hearts of her children, family, and friends.

The viewing will take place on July 7, 2024 from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM and the funeral service

will be held on July 8, 2024, at 11:00 AM at Johnson’s Funeral Home Chapel.

Eida Salinas Diaz’ memory will live on in the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to know her. Her legacy of kindness, humor, and love will continue to inspire future generations.

En Memoria de Eida Salinas Díaz

2 de noviembre de 1937 - 3 de julio de 2024

Eida Salinas Díaz, una madre, abuela, hermana, tia y amiga devota, falleció pacíficamente, rodeada de sus

hijos, el 3 de julio de 2024, a la edad de 86 años. Su corazón bondadoso, sentido del humor contagioso, dedicación y pasion inquebrantable a su familia serán profundamente extrañados por todos los que la conocieron.

Nacida el 2 de noviembre de 1937, en Progreso Coahuila, México, Eida fue la querida hija de Guillermo Salinas Casares y Zapopan Riojas Zalazar, y la hermana adorada de otros ocho. Le sobreviven sus hijos: Rafaela, Esteban y su esposa, Linda, Esmerejildo, Jaime y su esposa, Yanet; sus nietos: Christina y su esposo, Ricardo, Steven y su esposa, Paula, Daniela, Miguel, James, Alexandra, Brookelynn; y sus bisnietos: Esteban y Pablo; así como sus hermanos: Heriberto y su esposa, Isabela, Eduardo, Eliezer y su esposa, Gloria, Rosa, Elsa y su esposo, Guillermo. Le precedieron en muerte sus padres, sus hermanos Teresa y su esposo, Paz, Edelmira, Manuel y su esposa, Teresa; sus nietos: John William Tinney y Elizabeth Marie Tinney; su cuñada, Rosalinda y su cuñado, Filiberto.

Eida encontraba alegría en los placeres simples. Tenía una pasión por la pintura, tejer, hacer ganchillo, la jardinería, la costura y caminar. Cada actividad no era solo un pasatiempo, sino un reflejo de su alma creativa y conexión profunda con la naturaleza. La costura le brindaba felicidad al crear vestidos prácticos pero hermosos. Disfrutaba capturar tanto paisajes serenos como personas a través de sus pinturas. Sus hobbies reflejaban su profunda apreciación por los placeres simples pero profundos de la vida.

El mayor orgullo y alegría de Eida fueron sus cuatro hijos: Rafaela, Esteban, Esmerejildo y Jaime, a quienes inculcó los valores de bondad, resiliencia y amor. Sus hijos la recuerdan como una madre paciente, cariñosa y dedicada que siempre ponía sus necesidades por encima de las suyas. Sus hijos desean extender un sincero agradecimiento a la querida amiga de Eida, Mariela, por todo el amor y la amistad que le brindó.

La bondad y el amor de Eida por sus hijos fueron algunas de sus cualidades más entrañables. Dedicó su vida a crear un hogar amoroso y de apoyo, siempre llevando calidez y alegría a sus vidas. Su amor incondicional fue fuente de consuelo y fortaleza, creando recuerdos queridos que vivirán para siempre en los corazones de sus hijos, familiares y amigos.

El velorio se llevará a cabo el 7 de julio de 2024, de 6:00 PM a 8:00 PM, y el servicio funerario se llevará a cabo el 8 de julio de 2024, a las 11:00 AM, en la Funeraria Johnson.

La memoria de Eida Salinas Díaz vivirá en los corazones de todos los que tuvieron la fortuna de conocerla. Su legado de bondad, humor y amor continuará inspirando a las generaciones futuras.

Ofilia S. Martinez, 72, of San Angelo passed away Saturday, June 29, 2024. She was born October 22, 1952 to Prisciliano and Ramona Sedillo, in Levelland, Texas.

Ofilia was a devoted Catholic and a proud member of the Guadalupanas of Sacred Heart Catholic Church. Every morning she would read her Bible and pray the Rosary. She also loved listening to gospel music. Besides her love and devotion to church she enjoyed traveling, shopping, holidays, and the Dallas Cowboys. Most of all she loved spending time with her children and grandkids. She adored all of her nieces and nephews and would be overjoyed when they would stop to visit.

Ofilia married Mateo Cruz, Jr. in 1972 and had 4 daughters. 

Ofilia is preceded in death by her mother and father, all of her siblings, her grandson; Jerimiah, and her beloved dog, Queenie.

She is survived by her daughters; Ramona and husband Louis Estrada, Esmeralda Cruz and significant other Ronald Nobles, Melissa Cruz, Joann and husband Garrett Baughn, 21 amazing grandkids, 14 astonishing great grandkids, her dog Fluffy, ex-husband and close friend Mateo Cruz. And Boo-Kooz of nieces and nephews.

Mom was a big-hearted woman, she was kind, caring, and generous to all whom needed help. Her passing will be felt deeply by those who knew her. She will be missed. 

We would like to thank the doctors and amazing nursing staff at Shannon Medical Center ER, 5 South, and ICU, St. David's Hospital ICU staff and Neurologist Dr. Christina Saldivar. You all were so amazing and caring with our mom. And a special thank you to aunt, Beatrice Soto; aunt, Celia Gonzales; family-in-laws, Cathy & David Baughn; and cousins, Brenda & Brittany.

Chelsea Michelle Gray, 26, passed away unexpectedly Saturday, July 6, 2024, in San Angelo.

Public viewing will be from 10:00 AM until 8:00 PM Thursday, July 18, 2024, at Robert Massie Riverside Chapel. Funeral Service will be at 11:00 AM Friday, July 19, 2024, at Robert Massie Riverside Chapel with Rev. Charles Barnes, officiating. Burial will follow at Delta Cemetery under the direction of Robert Massie Funeral Home.

Chelsea was born February 3, 1998 to James Edward Gray, Jr. and Jennifer Gray on San Angelo. She graduated from Central High School in 2016. Chelsea worked as a customer service representative for BlueCross BlueShield of Texas for the last few months. Chelsea likes spending time with her family and friends. She enjoyed traveling and going to concerts.

Survivors include her parents, James and Jennifer Gray of San Angelo; a brother, James Edward Gray, III; three sisters, , Kayla Gray of San Angelo, Krystal Gray of Austin, and Tashika Gray of San Antonio; six Aunts, Michelle Johnson, Jeannette Johnson both of San Angelo, Evelyn Johnson of Houston, Sheila Gray, Teresa Foster and husband Lamont both of San Angelo, and Bessie Ruth Phillip and husband James of Dallas; six uncles, Claude Johnson and wife Nancyy of Ballinger, Curtis Johnson and wifeJean, Oscar Johnson and wife Devise, Larry Johnson all of Dallas, Victor Gray of Weatherford, Willie Gray of San angelo, and Leandro Gray and wife Ylia of Gail; three nieces, Shanelle Rios, Tumiyuh Gray, and Aniyah Walker; two nephews, Jase Talley and Zayden Moat; a host of cousins and friends; two godchildren, Jaiden and Jailah; and her best friends, Sierra Galindo, Mark Neeley, Deja Lara, Samantha Garcia, Kelvion Hunter, Gloria Reyes, and Omar Essix.

Paula Annette Sweeten (nee Davis) of San Angelo, Texas passed peacefully at home on July 7, 2024, after a hard-fought battle with ALS.

Paula was born in Seymour, Texas on November 12, 1953, to Nolan and Naydeen Davis. She graduated from Seymour High School and Tarleton State University, and later attended Texas Tech University. An accomplished horsewoman, Paula was crowned Miss Rodeo Texas in 1974.

During her years at Texas Tech, Paula met and married Jim Bob Bailey from Ozona with whom she had two children, Tres and Sunny Jon. Dedicated to her children, Paula always ensured there was something for them to do. Most weekends were spent at junior rodeos, stock shows, or 4-H events throughout the year.

In 1993, Paula married Eddie Sweeten from Rocksprings. They made their home in San Angelo where she built a successful independent insurance business with the motto of insuring good people and good horses.

For more than thirty years, she took great pride in working alongside Eddie building their ranching business in west Texas. She was especially fond of the Angora goats and Red Angus cattle they raised. In recent years, she cherished her family coming home and being a part of the legacy she and Eddie worked hard to build.

Besides being a good steward of the land, Paula will be remembered most for her steadfast faith and servant’s heart. For many years she cared for her father, Nolan, and later for Eddie as he endured a long battle with cancer. Friends and family could always count on her for a meal or a prayer during their time of need, even when her own health began to decline.

After the kids left home, Paula and Eddie mentored and guided youth in the neighborhood, enrolling them in 4-H, providing them with Angora show goats, and taking them to church.

When Tres went to college, Paula joined the San Angelo Texas A&M University Mothers’ Club where she helped write and sell cookbooks to support student scholarships. That time in Aggie Moms developed into a closeknit group of friends with regular bunko gatherings for many years.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Nolan and Naydeen Davis, and her husband, Eddie Charles Sweeten.

Paula is survived by her son, James R. (Tres) Bailey III of Washington, DC; daughter, Sunny Jon Bailey Lefevere and her husband Ryan of Ozona, TX; brothers Gary Davis of Dayton and Phil Davis of Seymour and their families; stepdaughters Shawn Meredith and her family, and Brandy Sweeten of Camp Wood, TX; and dear family friend, Patsy Malone of Seymour.

Arrangements are under the direction of Harper Funeral Home in San Angelo. A visitation at the funeral home will be from 4:00-6:00 pm, Wednesday evening. Services will be Thursday, July 11, 2024, at 11:00 A.M., at Grape Creek Baptist Church (9781 North Grape Creek Road, San Angelo, TX, 76901) with a lunch to follow.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Paula's memory to The ALS Association or a charity of your personal importance.

Family and friends may share Condolences and sign the online register book at www.harper-funeralhome.com.

Rebecca Ann Phillips, known as Becky, wife of local businessman John Phillips, passed away on July 6, 2024, after a brief illness. Becky was born on Christmas Day in 1939. 

 The following is her birth announcement:

A Xmas Belle

We have another which makes a pair

With pale blue eyes and coal black hair

We named her “Becky” so you can see

It wasn’t a boy on our Xmas tree

Just a little over 7 was what she weighed

And the finest present that God ever made

— Golden and Bob Reid

Becky was born and reared in Oklahoma. She and her first husband moved to Hobbs in 1957 where they raised their children, Jenny & John. It was in Hobbs that she first met her neighbors John Phillips and his wife, Mary. Becky supported Mary during an illness which John deeply appreciated. Many years later, after being widowed, John called Becky recalling her kindness and generosity. They then enjoyed 22 years in a loving marriage in San Angelo.

Becky was an X-ray technician and worked many years for the Texas Back Institute in Midland, TX.

Becky loved to travel. She and John took many trips abroad. Their last trip, just days before she died, was to Las Vegas, a destination that always held a special place in her heart. She also enjoyed the numerous family reunions, filled with laughter, in Tahlequah, OK with the Wadley Clan: her extended family on her mother’s side, Wadley being the maiden name of Becky's mother who was 1/4th Choctaw Indian.

She is survived by her husband, John Phillips, her daughter, Jennifer Bingham and husband, Tom, of Midland, TX, her sister, Cynthia Tucker of California, granddaughter, Rachel Rettig and her husband, Thomas, of Vernal, Utah, grandson, Corey Wilson and wife, Davette, of Ft. Worth, TX, and great-grandchildren, Anya and Ali Rettig, and Hadley and Harper Wilson. Becky also leaves behind her beloved Wadley family of many cousins and her extended Phillips family. She was predeceased by her son, John Dare, parents Golden and Robert Reid, and sister, Gay “Snookie” Reid.

There will be a graveside memorial Friday, July 12, 2024, at Prairie Haven Cemetery in Hobbs, NM at 10:00 AM New Mexico time.

The family wants you to know that all prayers of consolation are appreciated. In lieu of flowers, gifts to the American Cancer Society, Special Olympics, or other organizations supporting cancer research or people with Down’s Syndrome are appreciated.

Funeral services for Brenda Fay Tucker will take place at Southland Baptist Church in San Angelo, TX on Saturday July 13th, 2024, at 10:00am. There will be a celebration of life reception and service, followed by a luncheon.

Brenda Tucker was born on October 8th, 1956, in Kermit, TX to Faye and Wayne Wilson. She was married to George Tucker on June 26th, 1997, in Big Lake, TX. Brenda was surrounded by her husband, son and loved ones when she went to be with the Lord on Friday,  July 5th, 2024.

Brenda grew up as a “Camp Kid” in Midkiff, TX at the old El Paso Natural Gas Plant. She attended school in Big Lake, TX where she was a cheerleader and twirler, riding the bus 50 miles each way every day. Her love for the Lord began to grow at a young age as a member of the First Baptist Church of Midkiff.

Brenda maintained her faith in Big Lake and San Angelo, Tx where she was a member of Big Lake FBC and Southland Baptist. Her faith was bigger than life and her actions reflected her love for Christ. She was the best friend anyone could ask for. Throughout her life she made many friends who were family to her, and they were by her side until her very last breath. She was charismatic, fun, loving and full of life. She saw the world through rose colored glasses and never had a negative thing to say. Brenda loved teaching Bible Study and gave her time freely to the church. Whether it be helping with Church Camp, Vacation Bible School, or being a board member and president of the Southland Baptist CDC, she worked hard to make sure every kid and member knew the love of Christ. She will forever be missed by the Southland Bible Study Girls.

Brenda had a large family and was called many names throughout her lifetime. As “Mom” she was supportive, strong, and loving. As “Aunt Boo” she was silly and loved to make you laugh, even if it was at herself sometimes. As “Momo” she was everything. She was one tough “Momo” that taught us that if you put your heart into it, you can achieve it. On June 23rd, 2018, she was the Texas Powerlifting Champion for her age and weight class and even held a few records. She was truly an inspiration to all that knew her.

She is survived by her Husband George Tucker, Son Chad George, Daughter-in-Law Sarah George, Stepson Bran Tucker, Sister Janice Morris, Brother-in-Law Bob Morris, Sister-in-law Sheryl Wilson, 6 Grandkids Jacob, Layton, Jackson, Callen, Jensen, and Haydn. She also had many nieces and nephews she loved dearly. She is proceeded in death by her parents, Wayne and Faye Wilson, Son Craig George, Daughter Jill George, Stepdaughter Sheri Tucker, and Brothers Sandy and Donald Wilson.

Brenda had a huge impact on many lives and never knew a stranger. She loved to vacation with friends, family, and anyone in the same place at the same time. She will be greatly missed, but her love and outlook on life will live on in the hearts of her family and friends. Love you Mom “Momo”, we know you are rejoicing in Heaven, and we will be reunited again.

In lieu of flowers “Momo” asks that donations be made to Southland Baptist Church to help kids attend Church Camp.