Jose "Joe" Nava Perez, 82, passed away Sunday, September 14, 2025, in San Angelo surrounded by his loving family.

Public viewing will be from 10:00 AM until 8:00 PM with the Rosary being prayed at 6:00 PM Wednesday, September 17, 2025, at Robert Massie Riverside Chapel. Mass will be 10:00 AM Thursday, September 18, 2025, at St. Joseph Catholic Church with Ft. Tom Barley, officiating. Burial will follow at Calvary Catholic Cemetery under the direction of Robert Massie Funeral Home. Military honors are afforded by Ft. Hood Military Honor Guard Team.

Mr. Perez was born September 3, 1943 in San Angelo to Margarito and Reyes Perez. Joe has been a lifelong resident of San Angelo where he was a 1961 graduate of Central High School. Joe was drafted in to the US Army and he served for 4 years after hurting his knee. After returning from his service in the Army Joe attended a trade school in Dallas. Joe met Margaret Garcia and they later married on April 11, 1967 in San Angelo, Margaret preceded him in death on December 25, 2017. Joe worked for the telephone company and later worked at Ethicon for 32 years as a needle maker. Joe was a member of St. Joseph Catholic Church. He loved fishing, working in his yard, and spending time with his grandchildren. Joe also loved to grill, dance, play guitar, and listen to music.

Survivors include his two daughters, Mary Ellen Payton and significant other Gary Lara, and Elizabeth Martinez and husband Edward all of San Angelo; his sister, Lucia Sepeda of Sweetwater; four grandchildren Christopher Payton, Michael Payton and wife Kendall, Ethan Martinez and wife Eliza, and Elyada Martinez; two great grandchildren, Emilio Luciano Martinez, and Keiligh Grace Payton; and his cat, Kitty Witty. Joe was preceded in death by his parents, four brothers, Victor Perez, Domingo Perez, Ignacio Perez, and Miguel Perez, and three sisters, Margaret Gutierrez, Julia Torres, and Rosa Cervantez.

Gladys Eckert Heinze peacefully passed away on September 14, 2025, at the age of 97. Gladys was born January 12, 1928, to Charles and Ida Eckert in Courtney, Texas. Her family moved to Ballinger in 1939 and then to Miles in July 1940. There they owned and operated the Eckert Grocery Market and Food Store (currently the Ideal Food Store), along with the Eckert Dry Goods Store. Gladys graduated from Miles High School in 1945.

She married Milton Heinze in Olympia, Washington on March 29, 1946. After Milton’s discharge from the Navy, they made their home on the stock farm north of Miles where they raised four children. They shared 68 years of marriage before Milton’s passing in 2014.

Growing up her home was always filled with music, a variety of instruments, and the joyful presence of friends and family. Milton and Gladys were active members of Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Church in Miles. Gladys was involved with the children’s church and school activities, serving many years as room mother. Their home was always open for young people and large family gatherings. It seemed everyone loved to visit and stay in the country. Gladys loved to entertain crowds and see that all were having a good time. Milton and Gladys shared a love for travel, often embarking on memorable journeys together. One of their favorite traditions was attending the annual shipmates reunion, which brought together friends from across the United States in a different state each year. Their adventures also took them to the Bahamas, Victoria, British Columbia and on a tour of New England’s fall foliage. Fairness and honesty were guiding principles in Gladys’ life. Above all, her family was her greatest joy.

Gladys was predeceased by her parents, husband Milton, daughter Marilyn Ramsey, daughter-in-law Nancy Heinze, brother Roy Eckert (killed in WWII), brothers, sisters and their spouses Martin and Lillian Eckert, Violet and Rollin Davis, Clarence and Elaine Eckert, and Ruth and James Sims.

Gladys is survived by her children: Leonard Heinze, Richard Ramsey, Mark and Renae Heinze, and Brent and Shere Heinze. She is also survived by eight grandchildren who cherished their Nanaw: Matt Heinze, Kathleen Heinze, Julie Storey (Curt), Kevin Heinze (Erin), Evan Saucedo (Manny), Allison Durst (Lyle), Shane Heinze (Alex), and Cadyn Thorp (Hayden); great-grandchildren: Ellie Jo and Hudson Storey, Wyatt and Hank Heinze, Santiago and Quinn Saucedo, Cade, Easton and Alaina Durst, Ella and Ezra Heinze, and Thomas, Elijah and Micah Thorp; along with many nieces and nephews.

Visitation will be at Harper Funeral Home of San Angelo on Saturday, September 20th from 5-7 pm. Graveside services will be at the Miles Cemetery on Sunday, September 21st at 2 pm with William Rosser officiating.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorials be made to the charity of your choice.

Tena Della Kirkham left us to meet her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on Saturday September 13, 2025, in Floresville, TX. Tena was born November 15, 1957, and was adopted by Noel Heath and Inez Bowen in Germany. After moving to the United States, she attended Brownwood High School and later married and was blessed with 3 children, Amber, Alexis, and Aaron. Tena gained her United States citizenship in 1991. This was one of her proudest achievements as she was a deeply patriotic American. Also in 1991, she married the love of her life, Mark Kirkham and gained another daughter, Carla. Tena and Mark traveled many backroads together chasing their children, grandchildren and one great grandchild. They both enjoyed activities that required them to be horseback including being a longtime member of the San Angelo Saddle Club, many years showing in the AQHA, and Tena especially loved the rodeo. Tena worked in many different professions including being a teacher’s aide at Grape Creek ISD, working for the Texas Workers Compensation Commission, at Shannon Hospital, and finally as a real estate agent where she found her true calling. In 2014 Tena and Mark left their longtime home in San Angelo and made south Texas their home. She was president of the Board of Realtors in Bee county for 7 years. At the time of her passing they resided in Floresville, TX.

Tena had many loves aside from her family such as animals, especially her dogs and horses. At one time she trained horses. Mark recalls she was a terrific cook, but above all she loved playing games with her family. She would travel hours to spend time with them or to watch them in any activities they were involved with.

Faith played a significant role in Tena’s life, and she knew her eternity was secured through a personal relationship with Jesus Christ.

She is survived by her husband of 34 years, Mark Kirkham, her daughter Amber and husband Bill Thorton and their children Austin Honeycutt, Kyan Thorton and Ethan Thorton, her daughter Alexis and husband Justin Jackson and their children Grady Jackson and Zane Jackson, her son Aaron Busby and wife Amy and their children Kissty Busby and Paige Richardson, and her daughter Carla and husband Chili Cole and their children Cinco Cole and Pecos Cole. She is also survived by a great grandson, Oaks Hardgrave.

The graveside service and celebration of Tena’s life will be 10:00 A.M., Thursday, September 18, 2025 at Lawnhaven Memorial Gardens with Rev. Ryan Buck officiating.

The family requests that in lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the West Texas Boys Ranch at www.wtbr.org.

Family and friends may share condolences at ww.harper-funeralhome.com.

Gale Stewart Bradshaw, born March 9, 1929, in Jackson, Michigan, passed away peacefully on September 14, 2025, in San Angelo, Texas, at the age of 96. He was the beloved son of Wayne and Gertrude Bradshaw.

He was preceded in death by his first wife, Joyce Evans Bradshaw, with whom he shared many years of love and companionship. He is survived by his wife, Wanda Bradshaw, his two children, David Bradshaw and Janet Bradshaw Caskey, and his cherished grandchildren: Lauren Bradshaw, Kristin Bradshaw, Cooper Bradshaw, Marisa Horner Jackson, Shea Horner and six great grandchildren. His family and friends will remember him as a man of remarkable strength, unwavering faith, and a deep sense of devotion to those he loved.

Gale lived a life marked by service, love, and laughter. He proudly served his country in the United States Navy before beginning a long and accomplished career in the FAA as an air traffic controller. Beyond his professional life, Gale found great joy in the game of golf, where his patience, focus, and competitive spirit shined.

 

Gale was a devoted member of St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church in Huntsville, Texas, where his remains will be interred alongside his loved ones. His life of service, strength, and joy will be remembered by all who were fortunate to know him.

Billie “Jo” Runnels Hoover, 94, gained her brilliantly colored angel wings on September 11, 2025, and went to be with her Lord and Savior Jesus. 

Jo was born to Lucille and Jack Runnels on March 28, 1931, in San Angelo, Texas. Jack passed away when she was 5 years old. Her Mom remarried and Ike Verfuth became her stepfather. 

On February 22, 1947, Jo married J.W. Hoover, and they remained in San Angelo for their 57 years together. He preceded her in death on March 27, 2004. Their love and life together was a true testament to their children, coworkers, family and friends. 

Preceding her in death was her husband, J.W., her parents, and her sisters Nina Mapson and Margaret Herron. 

Jo was an active member of Immanuel Baptist Church for 89 years. J.W. and Jo brought their 2 children up in church and shared wonderful, fun-filled vacations with other church families over the years. She loved her Sunday school class, sang in the church choir for many years, and participated in any activity at church having to do with preparing food or decorating tables for events. 

Jo worked at San Angelo Central High as an aide with the special needs students in The Cottage and retired from SAISD. 

When she moved to Baptist Memorial she began to volunteer at the thrift store there. Jo delighted in finding new treasures and trading in the previously found ones in the thrift store and brought them home every chance she had. She volunteered over 4000 hours at the thrift store and assisted with estate sales in the Baptist Memorial community. 

She loved gardening and had beautiful flowers in each home anywhere she lived. She enjoyed cooking for any occasion and her guests were always treated to a delicious meal or dessert made with love. Every room in her home had a vivid accent wall and she added pictures or items that pulled the room together, so it was just how she liked it. This was also evident in her clothing and jewelry choices, and she was always “dressed to the nines”. She took great pride in decorating her home with as many trinkets, pictures and collections as she could to make it warm, inviting and homey to welcome visitors. 

Jo always went out of her way to have little surprises and gifts for all her family and friends. Many times, these presents were homemade whether it was a jar of pickles, hand lotion or a favorite candy. 

Jo was an accomplished seamstress. She sewed her daughter’s clothing for many years. When she moved to Brayden Park she would mend or hem the staff’s clothing for them whenever asked as she was always willing to help when needed. 

No one can ever say Jo did not enjoy the holidays and she gladly took any chance to decorate for an occasion. Her home was filled with closets full of necessary embellishments to make every holiday and change of season brighter and more beautiful.

Jo is survived by her son, Jay Don Hoover and his wife Gail; grandchildren, Sydney, Hayley and Jaxon Bobholz of San Angelo; Jay’s adopted-in-love granddaughter, Jackie Beezley, and husband Andrew and their children Addison and Bryson of Leander, Texas; grandchildren by marriage Katie, Andrew and Brendan Griffin of San Angelo; daughter, Lesa Cochrane and Dick Thomas; granddaughter, Kimberly Fuchs and her husband Andrew, as well as their children Nolan, Archer and Holland of San Antonio, Texas. Also special to Jo were her nieces Pam (Bubba) Dunn, Penny (Guy) Slayton, and great niece, Missy (Jeff) Willis and nephew Royce Powell. She is also survived by her very special friend, Susan Creel, who spent countless hours with Jo by visiting, going to movies, enjoying meals together and just being her very best friend. 

Jo’s celebration of life will be held on Monday, September 15, 2025, at Johnsons Funeral Home Chapel in San Angelo. Interment will immediately follow at Lawnhaven Memorial Gardens. The chaplain from Concho Hearts Hospice, Russ Frazier, will officiate the service. 

Pall Bearers will be Robert Baxter, Gary Heumier, Guy Slayton, Steve Hoover, Garland McDaniel and Jimmy Gardner. 

The family would like to thank the staff at Brayden Park for the friendship and love shown to Jo over the last 4 years. Special thanks to Sadie and the nurses at Concho Hearts Hospice, your sincere care and devotion meant so much to Jo and her family.

Rhonda Sue Crawford Blackman, age 75, went to be with our Lord and Savior on Friday, September 12th, 2025 following complications of an outpatient surgery at Shannon Hospital ICU.

Rhonda is survive by her husband James Price Blackman of Sonora. She also is survived by daughters Angela Ervin of Sonora, Christy and Robert Telles of Sonora and Rayonna Blackman of Sonora. Grandchildren Trace Hickenbottom and Mandy Guzman of Lubbock, Seth Ervin and Ava Doss of San Marcos, Jesi and Mark Price of Littlefield, Jay Telles of Sonora, Jena Telles of Houston and Joey Telles of Sonora, numerous great grandchildren, nieces, nephews, great nieces and nephews. As well as, numerous bonus daughters. Rhonda is preceded in death by her parents Doyle Ray Crawford and Oda Mae Farris Crawford, two sisters Nova Jean, Olenick and her twin Sondra Lou Strickland, numberous aunts, uncles, her grandparents and great grandparents.

James and Rhonda were married 56 years ago at the Church of Christ in Sonora. Mom spent most of her life as a housewife and mother. She did work at the Town and Country where she met some lifelong friends. She spent most of her time at our grandmother's house where some kinds of games were always going on. We played cards, dominoes and dice games. All of us children grew up at Mumow's house. These games sometimes went on for hours into the night. When we got tired they would make us a pallet on the floor to sleep on. We all learned to play games at a young age. These were the best of times for us all. Mom would load up a whole bunch of us kids and go to the river at camp Allison. We spent many summers at Rough Canyon in Del Rio camping, fishing and swimming. She was the one that we all called for a ride somewhere. She taught us how to drive going down Bond Road and Myers road. Mom and Mumow would feed us and our friends lunch almost everyday. We have such great memories with Mom.

Mom took care of our grandmother for a year, 24 hours a day 7 days a week. My grandmother called her "My Angel" for taking good care of her. That is a perfect way to sum up our mother. She was an angel on earth and she never spoke a harsh word to anyone. She was so sweet and loving,. We always knew how much she loved us all. We couldn't have asked for a better mother. 

Mom loved all things sporty and of course her soap operas. She was watching Young and the Restless before she went back to surgery. She loved all her fur babies, watching sports in person and on TV. I always told her watching golf and baseball was so boring. Well she rubbed off on me because I too watch it all on TV now. She will be missed by all who loved her.

Father God, we ask you to welcome her into Heaven where all her family members will be reunited. Our Lord, we ask you to heal our mother. Let there be no more oxygen tanks, no more insulin injections and numerous medications. Allow her to walk freely without pain or shortness of breath. Heal her on Lord. Hear our continued prayers for peace and comfort as we grieve losing her. We will all carry cherished memories with her. 

Pallbearers will be Clint and Cole Cearley, Tyler Smith, Richard and Trace Hickenbottom and Jay Telles. Honorary pallbearers are Robert and Joey Telles and Glenn and Seth Ervin

In lieu of flowers, please donate to an animal rescue or shelter. 

Today, we gather not only to mourn the passing of Claudette, but to celebrate a life that was small in stature but mighty in spirit. Born on July 25, 1935, in Campwood, Texas, to her loving parents Laura and Paul Whipkey, Claudette’s journey began in a small town but her impact was immeasurable. She lived a full 90 years before passing away on September 12, 2025.

Claudette was a firecracker—fierce, funny, and full of life. She never met a stranger. If you crossed her path, she made you feel like family.

In 1953, she married the love of her life, George, and together they built a family and a lifetime of memories. She loved fiercely—with all her heart. Her family meant the world to her, and the Campwood family reunions were some of her favorite moments—gatherings filled with laughter, food, and love. Claudette’s heart was big enough to include not just her children and grandchildren, but every child she met. The children of the world held a special place in her soul.

She is now reunited with her beloved husband George, and we find peace knowing they are together again. She leaves behind her loving family:
• Her sons: Ronnie, with his wife Lynn, and George “Tinker,” with his wife Jennie.
• Her cherished grandsons: Frank, with his wife Abby; Ben, with his wife Kristen; and Brett, with his wife Jennifer.
• Her adored great-grandchildren: Colt Sahr and his mom Taylor, Madyson, Alenna, Cheyenne, and Haylee.

Each one of them carries a piece of Claudette’s fire, her humor, and her boundless love. She loved them deeply, and they were the pride of her life.

Ronnie, her baby boy, always knew how to make her smile. He’d ask her, “What do you want as a souvenir?” and she’d simply say, “Just buy me something pretty.” And when he’d ask what she wanted to eat, she’d reply, “Anything you cook.” That bond was something special, and it spoke to the kind of mother Claudette was—easy to please, full of love, and always grateful.

Claudette had her passions. She was unbeatable at bingo and could work a puzzle with the same determination she brought to life. Her yard was her sanctuary—filled with flowers and fairy garden treasures that she loved gifting to her daughter-in-law. In those little details, she found and spread joy.

She had a sweet tooth for baking—her famous pecan pralines could win over anyone—and she had the rare strength to drink Crown straight, maybe the only one in the family who could! She loved Ronnie’s catfish, appreciated good food, good company, and good music. If there was dancing, you’d find Claudette near the front, smiling and swaying to the rhythm of life.

Her fashion sense was all her own—bold leggings and cozy cardigans were her signature look. Every time you see a pair out in the world, think of Claudette. Think of her smile, her sass, and that unstoppable spirit.

She was a woman of deep faith and strong values. She stood firm in what she believed in and never backed down. A true God-fearing woman, she appreciated her blessings and gave thanks every day.

I remember her saying, during a trip to Del Rio, that she knew it would be her last. But she wanted it to be memorable—and it was. That Fourth of July, like so many moments in her life, was filled with meaning, beauty, and celebration.

Claudette taught us to love with everything we have, to laugh even when life gets tough, to dance when the music plays, and to never turn away a stranger. Her legacy is one of love, generosity, and a spark that never dimmed.
 

Pallbearers
Claudette will be honored and carried to her final resting place by the following pallbearers:
• Frank Wipff
• Ben Wipff
• Brett Wipff
• Espy Whitehead
• JP Whipkey
• Van Robert Hamilton

These six men, representing both family and friendship, will carry Claudette with love, just as she carried each of them in her heart.

Rest well, Claudette. You lived life to the fullest—and we are all better for having known you.

Ismael F. Valenzuela, Sr. "Vale", 85, passed away at his home in San Angelo on Monday, September 15, 2025.

Viewing will be from 11:00 AM - 8:00 AM on Thursday, September 18, 2025 at Robert Massie Riversided Chapel with rosary being recited at 6:00 PM by deacon Jesse Martinez. Mass will be said at 10:00 AM on Friday, September 19, 2025 at St. Margaret of Scotland Catholic Church with Rev. Freddy Perez, officiating. Burial will follow in Calvary Catholic Cemetery under the direction of Robert Massie Funeral Home.

Ismael was born on April 27, 1940 in San Angelo to Julian and Luisa Valenzuela. He was raised in Robert Lee and attended school there. Ismael met the love of his life, Anastacia Maciel, and were married in December 1958.

He began his career at a young age in road construction surveying. He worked many years for Strain Brothers in San Angelo. He continued his career as a superintendent with Jones Brothers out of Odessa, retiring in 2021. He was an avid Dallas Cowboy fan and loved using his free time pitching washers and spending time with his family and friends.

Ismael enjoyed traveling to different casinos with his wife and children. Some of his most cherished memories were weekend BBQ's, listening to his favorite songs and drinking his yellow bellies.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Julian and Luisa Valenzuela; sisters, Julia Amaya, Helen Tijerina, and Concepcion Valenzuela; brothers, Ilario Valenzuela, Lee Valenzuela, Domingo Valenzuela, Sr. and Jesse Valenzuela , Sr.

Ismael is survived by his wife of 66 years, Ana, children, Margaret Martinez and husband Samuel, Frances Chacon, Ismael Valenzuela, Jr., Richard Valenzuela, Sr., and Sandra Zapata and husband Adam; a sister, Christina Correa; Grandchildren, Stephanie Torres and husband Joe, Nicole Thompson, Ashlie Fuentes, Richard Valenzuela, Jr., Reba Chacon, Angela Reyes and husband Hector, Brittany Douglas and husband Aaron, Adam Zapata, Jr. and wife LaShawna, Breyanna Perez, Illiana Valenzuela. and Ismael Valenzuela III, Krystal Martinez; 23 great grandchildren; three sisters-in- law, Janie Ortiz, Frances Nieves, and Amanda Carrillo; and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Honorary pall bearers will be the great grandsons, Cato Thompson, Christopher Marquez, Adam Zapata III, Bruce Douglas, and Hector Reyes III.

Pall bearers will be Adam Zapata, Jr., Ismael Valenzuela, III, Joe Torres, Patrick Torres, Aaron Douglas, Ray Tijerina, Jesse Valenzuela, Jr., and CR Tijerina.

Special thanks to the nurses from Enhabit home health and to Whitney Powell.

Carolina G. Montez, of San Angleo entered into eternal rest on Wednesday, September 10, 2025, at the age of 92, surrounded by her loved ones.

Public viewing will be from 10:00 AM until 8:00 PM with the Rosary being prayed at 6:00 PM Monday, September 15, 2025, at Robert Massie Riverside Chapel. Mass will be 10:00 AM Tuesday, September 16, 2025, at St. Margaret of Scotland Catholic Church with Ft. Freddy Perez, officiating. Burial will follow at Lawnhaven Memorial Gardens under the direction of Robert Massie Funeral Home.

Mrs. Montez was born April 13, 1933 in Bronte to Jesus and Tiburcia Gutierrez. Carolina was a devoted wife, mother,grandmother, sister, and friend. Her warmth and kindness touched everyone who knew her. Carolina dedicated 28 years of her career to Ethicon, Inc. and also worked at Alco and Barry's, where her strong work ethic and cheerful spirit left a lasting impression on co-workers and friends alike.

Carolina enjoyed being surrounded by family and friends, She also had a passion for creating beauty with her hands by quilting, sewing, and crocheting which brought her great joy, and her handcrafted pieces will remain treasures for those who received them. She was a member of St. Joseph Catholic Church and a founding member of St. Margaret of Scotland Catholic Church, living her life in devotion and service.

One of Caroline's greatest joys was traveling with her sister, Francis, and her favorite brother-in-law, Antonio. From the back seat, she would often say with a smile, " I can travel all night, so if you want to keep going, I'm ok." To which Antonio would "of course - you're not the one driving!" These moments of love, humor, and togetherness will be remembered fondly by all who shared in them.

Survivors include her children, Santiago "Jim" Montez, Alicia Montez, Maria Sosa and husband Armando, and George Montez and wife Liz; her sister, Francis Martinez and husband Antonio; 15 grandchildren, 11 great granchildren, and two great-great granchildren. Carolina was preceded in death by her parents, her husband of 71 years, Estevan Montez, two children, Richard Montez, and Diana Cadena, two, brothers, Jesus Gutierrez, and Rudolfo Gutierrez.

Carolina will be deeply missed, but her love, laughter, and legacy of faith will live on in her family and friends.

It is with great sadness the family of Ivey Nelwyn (Williams) Mossell announce the passing of their mother, at the age of 88, on Sunday, September 7, 2025. in San Angelo.

Mrs. Mossell was born October 2, 1936 in Van, Texas to Charlie and Eula Ivey Williams. Ivey graduated from Van High School. She received her degree in Journalism from the University of Texas, and later her Masters degree in education from Angelo State University. Ivey was a lifetime active member of the Democratic Party. She taught English and English as a second language (ESL) at Glen Junior High and later at Edison. Ivey was a devoted educator, a Tom Green County elections volunteer, and was active in the Texas State Teachers Association and Texas Education Agency. Ivey was a member of the Delta Kappa Gamma Sorority and served as a crime victim service advocate For Tom Green County Sheriffs Department.

Ivey married Milton Mossell on January 22, 1960. She was preceded in death by Milton on October 6, 1999, and a son David Mossell on July 19, 2022.

Survivors include her two daughters, Margaret Mossell, and Patricia Roark and husband Reid; a son, Michael Mossell; six grandchildren, Rachel Spavins, Michael P. Mossell, Myka Mossell, Ashley Mossell Robertson, Haley Mossell, and Alice Mossell; and three great grandchildren, Brylee Mossell, Walker Mossell, and Brielle Robertson.

There are no services scheduled at this time. Cremation and arrangements are under the direction of Robert Massie Funeral Home.