Sylvia Lillian Hyles “Granny”, age 85, passed away on June 15, 2025, in Eden, Texas. She was born on March 7, 1940, in Winston-Salem, North Carolina.

Sylvia proudly served as a dispatcher for the Eden Police Department for over 18 years. She was also a familiar and friendly face at Eden Short Stop, where she worked as a cashier for more than 15 years. Sylvia was known for her strong work ethic, warm spirit, and deep love for her family. She enjoyed fishing, gardening, and spending time with her loved ones.

She is survived by her daughter, Kathrine Malone and husband Ronnie Winans; grandchildren, Felisha Malone of Eden, TX, Shawna Malone of Grand Saline, TX, Kenneth Kincheloe and wife Amber of Eden, TX, Joe Castanuela and wife Kellsey of San Angelo, TX, Julie Barba of Eden, TX; and numerous great-grandchildren who lovingly knew her as “Granny.”

Sylvia was preceded in death by her husband, Calvin Lee Hyles of Eden, TX, and her parents.

Viewing will be held on Wednesday, June 18, 2025, from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. at Eden Funeral Home. A graveside service will take place at 10:00 a.m. on Thursday, June 19, 2025, at Eden Cemetery.

Pallbearers will be Ronnie Winans, Kenneth Kincheloe, Joe Castanuela, Julie Barba, Calvin Malone, and Nate Barba. Honorary pallbearers include Felisha Malone, Lane Cumbie, and Rachael Barba.

The family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to the Yellow Team, Hospice of San Angelo, and to all the family and friends who loved and supported Sylvia throughout her life.

Ina LaNell Cogdell, 91, passed away on Friday, June 13, 2025 at her residence. LaNell was born in Nolan, Texas on February 10, 1934, the 8th of 10 children, to Lorenzo Dow Monroe and Jessie Elinor (Estes) Monroe.

LaNell grew up on her family’s farm in Nolan along with her nine siblings. She attended Divide School where she graduated in 1951. She loved school and basketball. She won several basketballs that were given to players who excelled at the game. She was also part of a team that won the state championship. After graduating from Divide High School. LaNell moved to Sweetwater where she went to work at Bell Telephone Co. where a coworker introduced her to “Joe” who would become the love of her life. LaNell and Willard “Joe” Augusta Cogdell, Jr. married on September 29, 1955 in Sweetwater. She moved with Joe to Snyder where they started their family. Because of Joe’s work they moved to Brownwood and eventually settled in San Angelo. When her boys were young LaNell stayed home to raise her family. As the boys got older she went to work as a floral designer working at several florist shops around San Angelo. She loved butterflies and incorporated them into many of her floral arrangements. Joe and LaNell had a beautiful yard full of flowers they tended. She loved the waterfall Joe built in their backyard made out of rocks collected on their journeys. Her family was very important to her and her grandchildren were a highlight of her life. One of her proudest accomplishments was becoming “Granny” She also enjoyed getting together with her brothers, sisters and their families as much as possible. When in her 80’s she went on a trip to Costa Rica with her sisters, they persuaded her to go on the zip lines with them. She was always up for a game of dominos. At family gatherings they would play dominos into the wee hours of the morning until they could no longer stay awake. LaNell was preceded in death by her parents, husband, one son, Willard Augusta Cogdell III, and six of her siblings. Survivors include her two sons, David Cogdell and wife Becky (Joiner), and Russell Cogdell; Grandchildren Bethany Cogdell, Holland Cogdell and wife Ashley (Thele), and Will Cogdell; Great granddaughters Taelyn Black and Addysen Black all of San Angelo. She is also survived by three sisters, Minnie Ruth (Sis) Macloud, Annette LeCompte and Yvonne Lister along with many special nieces and nephews. The family wishes to express our gratitude to the staff at Interim Hospice for the care they provided during her final days.

Cynthia Ann Hall Ward, 87, of Sonora, Texas, passed away June 16, 2025 at the Schleicher County Nursing Home in Eldorado, Texas.

Cynthia was born June 16, 1938 in Fort Worth, Texas.  She was the eldest of two daughters of G. H. “Hix” Hall and Catherine Creagh “Kate” Hall. They lived in Sonora where the Halls owned and operated two movie houses and a drive in movie theater in town as well as a movie house in Eldorado. At an early age Cynthia learned to sell tickets and make popcorn. 

She went through the Sonora schools, graduating in 1956. She was a cheerleader, active on a championship debate team, and acted in a number of school drama presentations. After graduation, Cynthia married her high school sweetheart, Albert Ward.

They both attended Baylor University in Waco. Following the birth of their first child, Cathy, Cynthia stayed home to take care of the baby while Albert finished his degree.

Following his graduation the new family moved back to Sonora. Soon after their return they welcomed twins, Kelly and Gus. Albert and Cynthia raised their family at one of the family ranches south of town.

Cynthia was active in community affairs and was a lifelong member of the First United Methodist Church. She served as one of the states youngest Presidents of the Sonora Woman’s Club. As a club member, she headed up a scrapbook committee that put together a highly praised entry in a contest sponsored by the Texas Federation of Women’s Club. Cynthia loved to read and as a result she often
presented book reviews to local and area organizations.

Preceding her in death was her husband of 65 years, Albert Ward, parents Hix and Kate Hall, sister Carolyn Sloan and son-in-law Rapheal Holder.

She is survived by her three children, Cathy Feinberg and husband David, Kelly Holder and partner Bart Collins, and Gus Ward partner Ginger Heare all of Sonora. Also surviving are grandchildren Sarah Sebeck and husband Danny, Rachel Parrish and husband Brad, Jarred Holder and wife Laura, Tanner Holder and partner Lilly Huynh, Daniel Ward and wife Jennifer, and Kasey Miller. Cynthia is also survived by seven great-grandchildren and long time family friend Anna Samaniego.

A private burial Service will be held at the Sonora Cemetery followed by a memorial service on Friday, June 20, 2025, 10:00, at the First United Methodist Church. In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to the Sonora Methodist Church or charity of choice.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to the Schleicher County Nursing Home for their care and compassion during our mother’s last two years. We also would like to thank Melva Vallejo and Neria Galindo for keeping her company in the afternoons.

Jeanne Carole Alexander, 60, passed away on June 14, 2025, in Crockett County. Born on December 22, 1964. Jeanne graduated from Iraan High School, which laid the foundation for her life's endeavors. Jeanne's true passion lay in her hobbies, particularly fishing and being a loving grandmother, activities that brought great joy and fulfillment to her life.

Jeanne is survived by a loving family, including her father Jimmy Loftin; sons Randy, Robert, and Daniel Alexander; daughter in law Natasha Alexander; and grandsons Cale Hocker, Michael Smith, Jimmy, Ethan, Jasper, and Lucian Alexander. She was preceded in death by her mother, Wanda Loftin.

Details of the services to honor Jeanne's life are to be announced. As a cherished daughter, mother, and grandmother, she will be truly missed.

Jerald Myron Martin of San Angelo, Texas passed away surrounded by family on June 14th, 2025, at the age of 84.

Jerald was born on September 3rd, 1940, in Runnels County, Texas to James Masterson and Cleo Vivian Martin. He graduated from San Angelo Lakeview in 1959, where he was a standout athlete in both football and basketball. Jerald went on to play college football at both San Angelo College (Angelo State) and Southwest Texas State University.

After graduation, he spent time teaching chemistry and coaching football before starting a career in pharmaceutical sales. Jerald retired as pharmaceutical sales rep, but it wasn’t long before he decided he wasn’t ready for retirement and went back to the classroom. Jerald found joy teaching chemistry and physics and encouraging teenagers.

One of his favorite hobbies was refereeing both football and basketball. This pastime brought many lifelong friends and connections into Jerald’s life. He also loved spending time at the ranch near Eldorado and attending various events involving his grandchildren who affectionately called him TOF. His relationships with his grandchildren were the highlights of his days, and Jerald never missed an opportunity to show them how loved they truly were.

He also cherished his walk and faith in Jesus Christ and the time he spent as a Deacon at Southland Baptist Church.

Jerald is survived by his wife Norma Hasty Green Martin of San Angelo, Texas. Children and Stepchildren Jerry and Tammi Martin of Devine, Texas; Shawn and Robin Martin of Orlando, Florida; James and Amber Green of Mertzon, Texas; Holly Green of San Angelo, Texas. Grandchildren Faith Martin, Layne Green, Jesse Martin, Asa Green, Hayden Martin, Luke Brown, and Shiloh Martin.

He was predeceased by his sister Nayita Holcombe of Nederland, Texas.

Services to be held at Southland Baptist Church in San Angelo, Texas on Friday June 20th at 11:00am.

Honorary Pallbearers Include:

Faith Malane Martin

Hayden Jeron Martin

Luke Gregory Brown

Jesse Jerald Martin

Shiloh Shelby Martin

Layne Nicole Green

Asa Garrett Green

Frances Carlene (Allen) Dyess passed away peacefully at the age of 84 on Thursday, June 12, 2025 in her home surrounded by her kids and grandkids. She was born on July 16, 1940 in Lamesa, Texas to Scott Legon Allen and Jesse Pauline (Hester) Allen. 

Frances was raised and attended school in Ballinger, Texas. In March of 1956 she met the love of her life, Royce Dean Dyess. They dated for 1 year then were married on March 23, 1957. She worked at Bronte ISD for many years then retired to stay home and enjoy her grandchildren. She loved and was loved by all who met her but her family was everything to her. 

Frances is preceded in death by her parents, Scott and Pauline Allen; husband, Royce Dyess; son, Michael Curtis Dyess; grandchildren, Christopher Nolan Hendrix, Amy Lynn Dyess, and Jessica Marie Dyess; sister, Jennie Fulton; and brother, Wes (Butch) Allen. 

She is survived by five children, Larry Dyess and wife Gwen of Bronte, Carla Wojtek and husband Harvey of Robert Lee, Barbara Utley and husband Billy of Sweetwater, Scotty Dyess and wife Angela of Houston, and Lesa Dyess of San Angelo; special friend, James Chew of San Angelo; sisters, Sheila Allen of San Angelo and Betty Hallmark and husband Alvin of Ballinger; and sister-in-law, Kathy Allen of Albuquerque, NM. Frances is also survived by 13 grandchildren, 22 great-grandchildren, 4 great-great-grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews. 

Services will be held at the Robert Lee Methodist Family Life Center at 10:00 AM on Wednesday, June 18, 2025. There will be an opportunity for viewing with family present before the services begin. Funeral services are under the direction of Johnson's Funeral Home in San Angelo, TX. 

Serving as pallbearers are her grandsons, Blaine Dyess, Jerrod Balderas, B.J. Utley, Fred Wojtek, Shane Wojtek, and James Wojtek. 

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to a charity / organization of your choice in Frances' name. 

The family would like to thank the wonderful nurses, doctors, and staff of Ballinger Home Health and Hospice for the excellent care and friendship they provided her with for many years.

It is with deep sorrow and much love that we announce the passing of Rafaela Ellie Diaz—a devoted daughter, sister, mother, aunt, and friend—who passed away peacefully, surrounded by her family, on June 11th 2025, at the age of 61. Her kind heart and caring spirit will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her. 

Born on December 9, 1963, in Sabinas, Coahuila, Mexico, Ellie was the beloved daughter of Eida Salinas Diaz and Arturo Diaz Tijerina, and the cherished sister of four siblings. She is survived by her loving brothers: Arthur and his wife Mary, Esteban and his wife Linda, Esmerejildo, and Jaime and his wife Yanet. She also leaves behind her adored nieces and nephews: Christina and her husband Ricardo, Steven and his wife Paula, Daniela and her husband Jonathan, Miguel, Brookelynn, James, Alexandra, Daniel and his wife Heidi, Angelica and her husband Jake, Olivia and her husband Zachary, Adriana and her husband Eli, Cecilia, Andrew, Marcus and Julia; and her great-nephews and great-nieces, Esteban, Pablo, Desiree, Thomas, Jonas, Jaden, Aurora Ellie, Jasmine, Everlynn, Carter, and Ariella. Ellie was preceded in death by her mother, Eida Salinas Diaz, and her beloved children, John William Tinney and Elizabeth Marie Tinney.

Ellie grew up in San Angelo for most of her childhood as the big sister among her brothers, a role she took seriously. After high school Ellie worked at the Texas Theatre downtown where she provided many snacks and tickets to her brothers during that time. She later moved to Houston in 1999, where she began her work at the Texas Children’s Hospital where she met her lifelong friends, Delia Carbajal and Rose Toruno, whose bond began in Houston and endured through time and distance and ran the Houston Half Marathon. In 2009, she returned to San Angelo to be closer to her mother and care for her during her final years—a testament to Ellie’s unwavering devotion to her family. Ellie worked at Shannon Medical Center while in San Angelo until she became a full-time caregiver for her mother. Ellie continued her education as she proudly earned a Bachelor’s of Science in Psychology with a minor in Theology from Angelo State University in 2016 —a significant accomplishment that she hoped would inspire her nieces and nephews to believe that it's never too late to pursue their dreams. Ellie never stopped being a bright and shining presence for her family and friends as she always made a point to stay in contact with everyone near and far. Even after being diagnosed with cancer in 2023, Ellie would greet you with a smile and warmth as she fought with bravery and thanked God for each day. Ellie’s presence brought warmth, laughter, and grace into every room she entered. Her legacy of love and generosity will continue to live on in the hearts of those who loved her. She treasured time with her family and friends, enjoyed long conversations, discovering new restaurants, watching good movies, learning new cooking recipes, dancing, running more marathons, and traveling all over the world.

Those who knew Ellie remember her as a woman of deep compassion, unshakable faith, and strong moral values. She was not only a loyal friend but also a source of strength, love, and encouragement to everyone around her. Her kindness left a lasting impact on many lives, and her relationship with the Lord was a cornerstone of her character that will continue to stand with her family. We are deeply thankful to have witnessed the love and support our dear sister received during her brave battle with cancer. We are profoundly grateful for her beloved cousin, Maria Garza, who stood by her side with unconditional love, patience, and care, offering comfort and strength in her final stage of life. She was also uplifted by the unwavering presence of her two lifelong friends Delia Carbajal and Rose Toruno—companions of 25 years. Their friendship never wavered, remaining constant even when miles apart. 

The viewing will be held at Johnson’s Funeral Home on Monday, June 16th, 2025 at 6-8 pm where family and friends are invited to celebrate Ellie’s life and share treasured memories. The funeral service will be held at Johnson’s Funeral Home on Tuesday, June 17th, 2025 at 10 am and Ellie will be laid to rest at Lawnhaven Memorial Gardens.

Joann H. Isbell, lovingly known as "Jo" to her family and friends, passed away peacefully at the age of 93 on Saturday, June 7, 2025, in San Angelo, Texas.

Born on September 12, 1931, in Brownwood, Texas, Joann was the daughter of Elisha and Annie Harris. She graduated from Centennial High School in Coleman County in 1949 and later earned her CNA certification from Howard College, beginning a devoted career in healthcare. Joann worked alongside physicians and in private practice.

In April of 1952, Joann married, Wayne Isbell. Together, they raised their daughter, Carol.

A longtime member of Harris Avenue Baptist Church, Joann's faith was a cornerstone of her life. She found joy in simple pleasures—traveling, beachcombing, and collecting seashells from various shores. She was also widely known for her exceptional cooking and her pride in keeping a beautifully manicured yard.

Joann was preceded in death by her parents; her brother, Jack Harris; her sister, Pearl Dale; and her beloved nieces and nephews, Tommy Dale, Bobby Dale, and Linda Graham.

She is survived by her daughter, Carol Melcher, and her husband, James, of Knightdale, North Carolina; and three nieces: Naioma Wilson of Wilson, Texas, Juanita Davis of Fort Worth, Texas, and Suann Sales of Duncan, Oklahoma.

A graveside service will be held on Saturday, June 14, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at Johnson’s Lawnhaven Memorial Gardens in San Angelo.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to Judy Wright for her loyal friendship and for being a constant support to Joann when Carol could not be near.

Jacquelene "Jacque" Garrison Speck, 88, passed away Thursday, June 5, 2025, in San Angelo.

Mrs. Speck was born December 28, 1936 in Harlingen to Roberta Johnson Garrison and Eugene Pete Garrison. She attended grade school in Harlingen and then the family moved to Uvalde where she attended Uvalde High School and was a member of the cheer squad. The family then moved to Austin where Jacque graduated from McCallum High School. After graduation, Jacque moved to Houston and attended the University of Houston where she studied Criminal Justice.

Jacque then joined her older sister Jean on the West Coast in San José, California and worked with the San José Police Department. While she enjoyed her time in California, Texas was calling her home, so she moved back to the Lone Star State, working for police departments in Houston and Austin. While Jacque was in California, her parents purchased the Motel 83 in Menard, and on a visit to Menard, she met Frank Edward Speck, and they began to date. Jacque and Frank were married in the First Baptist Church of Menard in October of 1963, and in March of 1965, they welcomed their first son, Quint Edward Speck. In March of 1968, son Cody Garrison Speck was born.

Motherhood was Jacque's greatest joy. She poured her heart into raising her boys, never missing a Menard Yellowjacket football game, basketball or golf tournament, track meet, or Little League baseball game, often traveling hours and miles across West Texas to support Menard teams at away games. Her car was always packed with fellow fans, full coolers, blankets, and plenty of snacks! You always knew if Jacque was at one of her boys' sporting events as she was the most enthusiastic cheerleader in the crowd. "RUN SON RUN" and "SIC 'EM 'JACKETS" were among her signature cheers.

Later in life, Jacque enjoyed working as Director at the Menard Community Center where she served until her retirement.

Jacque was a gracious hostess, and her home was constantly full of friends and food. Her door was open 24/7 to all, and no one left hungry. She threw epic Super Bowl and Holiday parties, could make a mean chicken spaghetti, and always had ample queso in the crock pot, and a pot of pinto beans on the stove. A timeless beauty, Jacque was always impeccably dressed and had the most piercing blue eyes. She was full of life, loved to travel, play card games, was an accomplished Bridge player, a talented dancer, and was a lover of all her pets throughout her life including her beloved dogs, a fawn, a pet coon, and the hilarious Pepe the Parrot who she taught to greet visitors with, "Come on in!"

Jacque is survived by her sons, Quint Edward Speck, and Cody Garrison Speck; her sister, Jean Garrison Allgood; her brother, Buddy Garrison and wife Doris; four nieces and a nephew. She also leaves behind her beloved Chihuahua, Haichi. She was preceded in death by her parents, Roberta and Eugene Garrison; her sister, Joy Garrison Cocke; brother-in-law, Jim Cocke; her nephew, Guy Staton "State" Cocke; and her niece, Rory Allgood Thomas.

Celebration of Life Ceremony will be at 11:00 AM Saturday, June 14, 2025, at the Menard Country Club.

Friends and family are all welcome to come celebrate Jacque's life and share stories and fellowship.

Major Gary D. Belcher, USAF Retired, passed away on Monday, June 2, 2025 at the age of 90.

Gary was born in Bald Knob, West Virginia to The Reverend Orville Belcher and Icidale Peters. He loved growing up in the hills and streams where he lived. He loved the simplicity of life and loved playing with his cousins and friends. He worked at several odd jobs during his teenage years. He graduated from Pineville High School in 1952. Coal mining was the primary source of income in the area and Gary worked in the coal mine for three months to help subsidize his first year in college.

Because of Gary’s great desire to travel and his fascination with airplanes, he enlisted in Air Force and in November 1955, he flew to San Antonio, Texas to enter basic training. Gary quickly reached the rank of Staff Sergeant and then was selected to attend Officer Candidate School (OCS). He completed OCS on September 22, 1961 where he received his commission as a second lieutenant. It was around this time when Gary married Betty Joan Heldman, and to this union three children were born: Gary II, Graig and Debbie Belcher. The couple divorced in 1978.

The Air Force recognized Gary’s many talents, and he rose to rank of Major where he served in the USAF Security Service, now known as the Electronic Security command. During his tenure in the military, he trained as a Russian linguist and served as Signals Intelligence Officer, an Air Intelligence Specialist and a cryptanalyst. He spent many hours in the back of a C-130 aircraft that was equipped with appropriate gear for the many reconnaissance missions that was part of his military service. Major Belcher served in Alaska, Japan, Vietnam, Germany, England and many countries where he made life-long friends with other service members. He was known as “Cougar” during his service in Vietnam.

Major Belcher served his country proudly for 22 years before his retirement in 1978. He was awarded several commendations because of his valor, most notably: the Bronze Star, the Meritorious Service medal, the Distinguished Flying Cross, Air Force Commendation Medal and the Vietnam Service medal with four bronze clusters to name a few. Even after his retirement, he stayed very active with Air Force activities for forty years.

He graduated from the University of the State of New York in September of 1979 with a Bachelor of Science degree. It was around that time that Gary met the love of his life, Mamie Lois Barnes. She had two children, Jayne and David Barnes (deceased.) They were married 41 years until her passing in 2021. Together they formed two successful companies. They owned Pro Tex, a chemical supply company. After that, they owned First Comm, Inc who specialized in selling and refurbishing Plantronics headsets for American Airlines, Southwest Airlines, USAA and other well-established companies. The couple always considered San Angelo home so this is where they decided to hang their hats after retirement. They enjoyed traveling and the simple things in life. He loved feeding the birds and feral cats and watching them from his deck.

Major Belcher was preceded in death by his parents, two brothers Danny and Max Belcher, one sister, Geraldine Harrison, his wife Mamie Lois Belcher, and son David Barnes.

He is survived by sisters Betty (Steve) Halsey, Mary Ellen Cromey; Sons Gary (Denise) Belcher, Graig (Cynthia) Belcher, daughters Debbie Belcher and Jayne Blakemore, and his beloved cat Rascal; Grandchildren include Pamela (Matt) Hoch, Rachel (Omar) Cormier, Cassie (Will) Robinson, Joey (Laura) Humphreys, Tara (Corey) Harmon, Gary (Kathy) Cole, Jennifer (Tony) Abilez, Erin (Will) Doyle and nine great grandchildren.

Major Belcher will be laid to rest with full military honors at Johnson’s Lawnhaven Memorial Gardens on Saturday, 21 JUN 2025 at 1400 hours.(2:00 PM)

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Wounded Warrior Project or the local Heritage Chapter of the Freedom Through Vigilance Association.

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