Oralia G. “Lena” Chavarria, 92, of San Angelo went to be with the Lord on Tuesday, June 4, 2024, in San Angelo. Oralia, affectionately known as Lena was born February 8, 1932 , in San Angelo, Texas to Rito Garza and Carmen Paiz Garza. Lena grew up in San Angelo and attended school in San Angelo. At a young age she became a waitress and worked in the food service industry. She also worked in the retail industry in cosmetics at Hemphill Wells Department Store. She married the love of her life Bobby Chavarria, and they spent 30 beautiful years together. She was a loving daughter, sister, wife, mother and grandmother who loved her family and enjoyed spending time with them. In her spare time, she loved to go dancing and she loved watching her Dallas Cowboys, win or lose. She was preceded in death by her husband Bobby Chavarria, her son, Jerry Ruiz, her daughter Mary Dell Jimenez, her Grandson, Simon Briseno, her two brothers, Clemente Garza and Adolph Paiz, and her sister Juanita Valdez. Lena is survived by her son, Jimmy Jimenez (Sylvia); her grandsons, Jimmy Jimenez, Robert Jimenez, Ceasar Ruiz, and Michael Briseno; her granddaughters, Ana Jimenez, Angelica Jimenez, Lisa McComber, and Jamie Potter; her nephews, Albert Valdez and Marty Valdez; her nieces, Jessica Ramirez and Lynda Talamantez, as well as numerous other nieces and nephews; and her special dog Tache. Lena will be available for viewing from 8:00A.M. – 7:00 P.M., Saturday June 8, 2024, and Sunday, June 9, 2024, from 12:00 P.M. – 5:00 P.M. at Harper Funeral Home.

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

So sorry y’all, it’s time for me to leave - My life has been filled with so much joy.

My wife Mary, who completed a balance I never knew I needed. Two amazing sons; Wes (Jenny) and Landy (Kristi), four mischievous grandsons; Deacon, Dash, Knox, and Dylan – some of that mischief might be mine – wear it proud boys!

Accomplishments and dreams realized through hard work and still time for all the fun and games too.

Born to wonderful parents (Milton and Verba), who instilled values, responsibilities, and a solid love for Our Father – A challenge I am sure, as I was told I was very busy.

My brother Bobby (Kathy), the serious one, and my sister Donna (Jim), the darling baby of our family. They were great to just let me be me, marking my own path in life.

My world was filled with a lot of hunting and fishing, dancing, and cookouts with all my favorite people. Gifts, each and every one. I loved my years of woodworking, honing my skills and boosting my creativity and completing all those ‘honey do’s’. My favorite was working with live edge mesquite. With all its imperfections, its beauty was unequaled. You could see God’s hand in each and every piece.

With proud family roots, the Adkins’ and the Beach’s, I lived a jam-packed life with few regrets. Lessons were learned and memories were made. And when those memories started to disappear and I couldn’t recollect those names and events that were everything to me, I had to depend on family and friends to remind me. I have been very blessed.

Now my journey has one more leg – joining those I’ve missed and looked forward to hugging again. Realizing that crossing the threshold is leaving a void for others, I will wait patiently to hold you close again.

The family will hold a private celebration of life at a later date.

This week Midland lost Louise Gayer Good, 90, an award-winning teacher who helped mold teenagers into mature adults, a benevolence worker who helped many struggling families, and a jail chaplain and social worker who worked with women inmates.

Louise was born on February 10, 1934, in San Angelo, TX to her parents, Louis D. and Elsie Gayer. She grew up in San Angelo and graduated from San Angelo High School. After going to San Angelo Junior College and being selected for Phi Theta Kappa, she transferred to the University of Texas in Austin where she graduated cum laude with a major in zoology and chemistry. She also completed a Master of Arts in Bacteriology at the University of Texas.

On October 31, 1952, Louise married W. L. “Boots” Goode, also from San Angelo. After a short time in Austin, they moved to Amarillo where Louise taught Biology at Amarillo High School and played the violin in the Amarillo Symphony. After moving to Midland, Louise played in the Midland Symphony for about 10 years.

She and her husband moved to Guatemala, Central America from 1956 to 1960 and for two years she taught all the high school sciences in the American School. She served as an Elder in the only “English Speaking” Protestant Church in Guatemala City at the time.

From 1960 to 1962, Louise and her husband and two children lived in Tripoli, Libya. They returned to Midland in 1962.

In 1964, Louise began teaching biology at Lee High School in Midland. She was awarded the Outstanding Biology Teacher Award for Texas in 1974.

Not having her Sundays filled, Louise agreed to hold church services at the Midland County Jail in October of 1972. Even after she retired from teaching at Lee in 1980, she continued to hold services for incarcerated women almost every Sunday for over 50 years. Louise had helped countless women get resettled in Midland with clothes, furniture, jobs, training, advice, counseling, and reentry.

Since 1980, Louise added to her service helping returning inmates, while serving with Hospice and with the Benevolence Committee at the First Baptist Church. She was active with benevolent activities until her death. She was one of the original volunteers for Hospice of Midland when it was getting started and continued to serve at Hospice until 2010.

For several years, she served as Chairman for the Community Partnership Council, which brought inmate speakers to the public schools in Operation Kick-It.

For her many volunteer efforts, in 1989, she was selected and awarded the Golden Deeds Award by the Exchange Club of Midland.

Louise was preceded in death by two sons, William and Richard, and her husband of 67 years.

Memorials may be directed to the Jail Ministry of First Baptist Church, 2104 W. Louisiana Ave, Midland, TX 79701, or a charity of your choice.

Thomas “Tommy” Dale Burkett, 72, of San Angelo, TX, passed away peacefully on Sunday, June 2, 2024, surrounded by family. Born on August 5, 1951, to J.M. “Dude” Burkett and Aline Holsenbeck Burkett. Tommy grew up alongside his siblings Judy Burkett and Jay Burkett.

Tommy was a graduate of Lake View High School. He went on to serve his country in the US Navy from 1970 to 1976, achieving the rank of Aviation Ordinance man 2 (AO2/E-5). He served with distinction, specializing in air-launched weapons and supporting F-4 fighter missions – even lending his expertise to the renowned US Navy Blue Angels flight demonstration team. A Vietnam War Era Veteran, Tommy served six months overseas, for which he was awarded the National Defense Service Medal. For his commendable character and professionalism, Petty Officer Burkett was awarded the Good Conduct Medal.

Following his military service, Tommy worked in various professions, including: a landman, a satellite engineer assistant, and an electrician. Tommy was known for his storytelling, his playful pranks, and his unwavering patriotism.

Tommy is survived by his son, Cody Todd Burkett of FL; granddaughter, Cheyenne Burkett of FL; sister, Judy Burkett of Weatherford, TX; brother, Jay Burkett of San Angelo, TX; niece, Heather Johnson and husband Trey of Weatherford, TX, along with their children: Maci, Hayes, and Chloe; nephew, Heath Elliott “Dawg” and wife Lindsey of San Angelo, TX, along with their children: Kaitlyn, Kameron, Rylee, Olyvia, Abigail and Major Boaz “Gunny”; and special friends, Kevin Nicol and Cindy Haass, as well as numerous cousins.

He is preceded in death by his parents Dude Burkett and Aline Burkett.

A visitation will be held on Friday, June 7, 2024, at Harper Funeral Home from 5:00pm-7:00pm. The Funeral Service will be held on Saturday, June 8, 2024, at Harper Funeral Home at 10:00am. Burial to follow at Grape Creek Cemetery.

The pallbearers will be Heath Elliott “Dawg”, Jeff Fleming, Rick Fleming, Bruce Cole, Greg “Bones” Pierce, and Jamie Soto. Honorary pallbearers are Jay Burkett, Boaz Elliott “Gunny” and James Elliott.

Sunday, June 2, 2024, Donald Lee Miller peacefully passed away after a courageous battle with lung cancer. He just recently celebrated his 90th birthday. Born on February 1, 1934, in Chicago, IL to Guy Noah Miller and Josephine Agusta Litterst (Yeager) Miller. Don was a proud Navy veteran. He got his electrical training while serving and had a lifetime career doing electrical work and electrical design work. He worked on many electrical projects in his career, including The Luxor Hotel in Las Vegas, NV; National Personnel & Military Records Center (NPRC) in St. Louis, MO; Sea World and Walt Disney World in Orlando, FL; Air Force Defense System called PAVE PAWS in San Angelo, TX. He did the electrical design for the residence of professional golfer, Payne Stewart, in Orlando, FL. Don also designed the power system for the University of Riyadh in Saudi Arabia. He was a very active volunteer at Shannon Medical Center for several years, while delivering Meals for the Elderly. He was also a very active political campaign volunteer for the San Angelo Pachyderm Club.

Donald Lee is survived by his devoted, adoring wife, Aurita Miller, brother, Bill Miller, children Mark and wife Lisa, Wayne and wife Kay, Shelly Miller, and his “favorite son”, Glenn Erdelt. Four stepchildren, Eric, Liezl, RJ, and Rowie, 13 grandchildren, and 13 great-grandchildren, many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

The family would like to thank Dr. Hall and Dr. Raymund Untalan of Shannon Cancer Center, the staff of Hospice of San Angelo, especially Debbie Bishop, who took very good care of him. A special thanks to Ron and Erly Cline for their valued support.

He was a happy-go-lucky kind of guy, always looking at things in the most optimistic way. He was loved and will be missed as he spends eternity with our heavenly father. God Bless!

A reception will be hosted by his family at 2:00 PM, Saturday, June 8, 2024, at Harper Funeral Home Chapel and the memorial service will follow after at 3:00 PM.

Betty Jean Taylor, 76, of Ballinger, passed away on Thursday, May 30, 2024. She was born on April 24, 1948 in Houston, Tx, to Olga Lee and Florann Sherrard. Betty attended Seagoville High School and graduated in the Class of 1966. Betty married the love of her life, Lewis Ray Taylor, in Kleberg, Tx on December 16, 1966. They had one son, Kirtis Taylor, and later one granddaughter, Kirstie Taylor Rostro who they raised as their own.

Betty started working as a receptionist before becoming a devoted stay-at-home mom and grandmother. She had a passion for music, baking, and flowers. She cherished her family deeply, always prioritizing their needs above hers. Betty's baking was legendary; her kitchen was often filled with the sweet aroma of freshly baked cookies, cakes, and pies. Betty will be fondly remembered for her talent in engaging in conversations with just about anyone. She especially enjoyed sharing stories about her life in Anchorage, Alaska, with her husband, Lewis, and more recently, about her twin great-grandchildren.

Betty's warmth, kindness, and love for her family and friends will be profoundly missed but never forgotten. Her legacy lives on in the hearts of those she loved and the lives she touched.

Betty is preceded in death by husband, Lewis Ray Taylor (July 19, 2022), parents, Oga Lee and Florann Sherrard, and brother, Bobby Sherrard. She is survived by her son, Kirtis Taylor, granddaughter, Kirstie Taylor Rostro, grandson-in-law, Antero Rostro, and great grandchildren, Tres Lewis Rostro and Taylor Marie Rostro.

Rest in peace, Betty Jean Taylor. Your memory will forever be cherished.

Princess Roberts Gruben

I was born in Canyon, TX on 10/21/1950 and moved to Heaven on 6/4/2024.        

It was easy to make my travel arrangements to an eternal home in Heaven.  I heard Jesus calling me at Tulia Methodist Church, during a revival by Sam Kamulasen, in March of 1960.  I was 10 years old.  Salvation has to be personal, so I dug into the Bible to learn that Jesus was my savior.  Jesus has sent many amazing mentors through my life to help lead me down the path to him.

I am survived by my husband, Gary.  We were married in the Tulia Methodist Church on New Year’s Day of 1971.  And, yes, there were complaints about missing the Cotton Bowl!  We have 2 children, Meredith and her husband Charlie Bradley who live in Eldorado, TX.  Kirk Gruben and his wife Julie have 2 children, Parker and Grant.  They live in Allen, TX.  I’m so proud of them all.  My precious younger sister, Deltah Henard and her husband Andy lives in Wellington, TX with all of her family.

A special thank you to Dr. Cheruku and the staff at Shannon Oncology Center, the staff at Shannon Medical Center and Hospice of San Angelo.  They provided loving care to me and support to my husband and family. They are truly angels among us.

Thank you to so many praying friends, family members and precious neighbors who have provided endless support through my lifetime and this journey.

There will be a celebration service on June 7 at First Presbyterian Church in Eldorado at 11:00.                   

I would like to ask that memorials be sent to First Presbyterian Church of Eldorado PO Box 635 Eldorado 76936, Schleicher County Public Library PO Box 611 Eldorado, or Hospice of San Angelo 36 East Twohig Ste 1100 San Angelo 76903

I believed!

With heavy hearts we announce the passing of Debbie Pringle. Debbie went to be with the Lord on Tuesday, June 4, 2024

Debbie was born January 20, 1948 in New Orleans, Louisiana and later at age 2, she moved to Anson, Texas with her late parents Eddie and Marguerite Lewis. Debbie graduated from Anson High School and later entered Hardin Simmons University. She fulfilled her dream of becoming a nurse and received her license in 1968. She worked in Anson and Stamford and later in San Angelo, retiring in 2012.

Debbie met the love of her life Burl Pringle in 2010. They were married in 2014. They loved to travel in and out of the United States. They also took many cruises and made many new friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents and one daughter Angela Denise Anders.

Debbie is survived by her husband Burl Pringle and two sons. John Anders and fiance Carrie Martin of San Angelo and Jeff Pringle and wife Kristi of Big Lake; five grandchildren; seven great grandchildren; and her sister, by choice, Debbie Isbell of Stamford.

Debbie was a member of the South Gate Church of Christ. Her grace and dignity in the most difficult times of her life displayed her faith in the Lord and Savior.

Viewing will be from 10:00 AM - 8:00 PM on Thursday June 6, 2024 at Robert Massie Riverside Chapel with family receiving friends from 5:00 PM - 6:30 PM. Funeral services will be at 11:00 AM on Friday, June 7, 2024 at Robert Massie Riverside Chapel. Interment will be in Rankin Cemetery under the direction of Robert Massie Funeral Home.

Larry Clary, 74, a lifelong resident of San Angelo passed away on Sunday, June 2, 2024 at home.

Memorial services will be at 1:00 PM Saturday, June 8, 2024 at Robert Massie Riverside Chapel. Arrangements are under the direction of Robert Massie Funeral Home.

Mr. Clary was born on October 19, 1949 in San Angelo to his parents, Ernest Lee and Iris Lawrence Clary. He graduated from San Angelo Central High School in 1968. Larry worked for M System Grocery for over 20 years. Later he worked for Town and Country Convenience stores for 30 years. He worked through all the name changes and was working for Stripes when he passed away. Larry married Ellie Lanford Roberts on October 14, 1988 in San Angelo.

He played baseball during his younger years, enjoyed bowling, and loved playing golf. He used to say, "I work 5 days a week so I can play golf 8 days a week", and yes, he said 8 days. Larry was the sunshine to everyone who knew him. People loved his humor and his joking. He was a very special husband, dad, brother & friend, he made sure his family knew over and over how much he loved them unconditionally. He was always there for everyone. He is already missed by all of his family & friends.

Larry is preceded in death by a grandson, Aaron Baker; and a brother, Wesley Clary.

Survivors include his wife, Ellie of the home; six children, Troy Clary and partner Scott VanZandt of Austin, Carla Bennett and husband Greg of San Angelo, Rusty Clary and wife Elizabeth of Austin, Scotty Roberts and wife Makai of San Angelo, Derrick Clary and partner Rosa Flores of Austin, and Ernest Clary of Austin; daughter-in-law, Marsha Clary of San Angelo; a sister Shirley Anderson and husband Raymond of San Angelo; Golf Brother Robert Hendry of San Angelo; 12 grandchildren, Magin, Lindsey, Linda, James, Gwendolin, Lexi, Scotty, Shirley, Shelly, Addison, Michael, and Karrah; and 9 great grandchildren.

A very special thanks to Dr. Norma Cerna, Hospice of San Angelo, & Shannon Nurses.

Ricky “Rick” Lynn Fuessel, 71, passed away on June 3, 2024. He was born on February 22, 1953, to Herbert and Lorine Fuessel.

It started with a blind date, New Year’s Eve, some would say Love at first sight. We got engaged 6 weeks later Valentine’s Day and were married in October 1972. It is almost 52 years later (and they said it wouldn’t last!)

Ricky and his wife Jan had 2 wonderful daughters. The older, Whitney, is an Architect in Houston and works in healthcare design, building hospitals. Lindsay, the younger, is an amazing high school English teacher in Blooming Grove. Ricky was SO proud of his girls!

We have 3 grandchildren, Rheily, Addyson, and Lilly and inherited a bonus granddaughter from Whitney’s husband, Laura who is married and has a son. We love all our grandchildren. Also, our adopted sons, Shay Parker who has been there for both of us over the last several years, and Ram Garza who was always there when we needed him, and ALL Ricky’s boys that have worked for him over the years and he had the pleasure of leading several to know The Lord and was so proud of the men they have become. (including the two above)

His mother passed away in March 2024 and we are sure she was in the front of the receiving line to welcome her son along with his dad. His family consists of Jan’s sister, Jill Eagleston and her husband Mike, Niecy Lori, and Nephew Chris and their spouses. I thank them for all their help through this time. Ricky has 1 brother, Terry, and his wife Christina. He was loved by my many uncles, aunts, cousins, nephews, and nieces, also.

Other family members that first were our friends who have prayed for us over these last months and Ricky loved them for the support they gave the family are Karen Bennie, Tony Akin, Debbie Thompson, Karen Hesse-Smith, and Helen Pfluger.

We have honorary pall bearers (servers): Galen Akin, Shay Parker, Robert Parker, Ram Garza, Mike Eagleston, Glenn Diershke, honorary Charles Pfluger (Dan Pfluger filling in for his dad). They will be serving Ricky’s favorite Junction Cooper’s Bar-B-Q after the service. It was our date every time we came back from our monthly trips to San Antonio. It was his wish to provide his “last supper” with friends and family that he has loved for so many years after the graveside funeral.

Special thank you to Jacob Swindle who came out so many times to get Ricky up from a fall, and to Collier Shurley for taking special care of our precious Boston, Molly, all the staff at Baycrest and Concho Heart Hospice.

Notes from the daughters: It has been a year of many losses but many sweet spots along the way. So thankful for all the bedside time I got with you these last few months, from watching the Jerk, crying together as we said goodbye a couple of weeks ago or when you told me how proud you were of me, time and time again. You were instrumental in creating the woman I am, and I will be forever grateful for you - you are an amazing man. I will miss your wicked humor, your obsessive collection of knives, flashlights, rocks, coins and duct tape and your love for your girls - mom, Lindsay, and me. Love you, Daddy! (Whitney) Not so long ago, we were talking. You said to me that time was strange, so fast and so slow, and all at once. I agreed, and we talked for a while about time. We always had such good conversations. They meant the world to me. You did so many things that meant the world to me: playing basketball, watching Sci-Fi, working on the farm, and hanging out with the kitties - just to name a few. I learned so much from you and it is all a part of your legacy. So, while time is so fast and so slow, and all at once, so much of you will remain because you are timeless. (Lindsay)

The last nine months have been so difficult with Ricky being in the hospital, and in so much pain. He is finally out of pain and where his heart has always been, walking those streets of gold and fields with no bugs or weeds. IT WAS A WONDERFUL LIFE! (Jan)

Contributions and Memorials can be made to Meals for the Elderly of San Angelo and Eldorado First Baptist Church.

Funeral Service will be held at 10:00am on Friday, June 7, 2024, at Schleicher County Cemetery Chapel, 888 US Hwy 190 West, Eldorado, TX 76936.