Willie James Black, Sr., of Big Lake, Texas, was ushered into Heaven to be with the Lord on Thursday, July 10, 2025 at 4:11 AM. He was born on October 31, 1946 in Taylor, Texas, to Frazier Black and Berdine White. Willie attended Reagan County High School and graduated in 1965. He later served in the U.S. Army, and fought valiantly in the Vietnam War. For his dedicated service, he was awarded the National Defense Service Medal, the Vietnam Service Medal, the Marksman Medal, and the Purple Heart. He then began his career in the oil industry, working for Tom Hanson, CRC, Wedge Wireline, and ultimately for Baker-Atlas-Hughes as Regional Sales Manager. Willie married Dora Lopez on April 11, 1978, and they had three children. He was a faithful deacon and Bible teacher of Bethlehem Baptist Church, had a passion for serving the Lord, and will always be remembered for his love of people, compassion, generosity, and faithful walk with God.

Willie was married to Dora for 37 years, until her passing on June 18, 2015. After her passing, he was blessed to be able to find a new partner in Carolyn Goodloe with whom he shared his latter years. They married on September 9, 2017, and were married for almost 8 years. 

He was preceded in death by his parents, and siblings Eula Faye Black, Frazier Black, Larry Black, Diann Black, Dennis Ray Black and David Lee Black, Willie Ray Powell, and Georgia Patricia Moten. He is survived by his wife Carolyn Goodloe Black; siblings Johnny Ray Black, Ernest Lee Black, Sr., Marie Parker, Pastor Jay Powell, Racheal Marie Fuller, Mary Anne Aikins, Dovey Suzette Urdy, Bertha Jean Aikins; three children, including eldest son Dr. Willie James Black, Jr., and his wife, Lisandra Black, middle son Cleon Black, and his wife Monica Diaz Black, and daughter Lisa Marie Black; two grandchildren, 2nd LT Willie James “Tre” Black, III, and Taina Nicole Black; stepsons Michael Goodloe and Bryan Goodloe; and a host of nieces and nephews, family members, and many close friends. 

A Visitation for Willie will be held Wednesday, July 16, 2025 from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Bethlehem Baptist Church in Big Lake. A Homegoing Service will occur Thursday, July 17, 2025 at 11:00 AM at First Baptist Church in Big Lake, with interment to follow at Glen Rest Cemetery. 

Serving as pallbearers are Cody Black, Joshua Black, John David Black, Markus Black, Michael Sean Powell, and Isaac Delacruz. 

Honorary pallbearers are Sammy Dodd, Kevin “Budda” Gatewood, Rob Schuetz, Rayshawn Black, and Julian Black.

Billy Charles Taylor passed on Saturday July 5th doing what he enjoyed most, spraying mesquite. He was 93 years young. 

He was born on April 4, 1932, in Bronte, TX to Walter and Iola Taylor. Bill attended Lakeview High School, graduated in 1950, married Eva Ratliff, and quickly had four children. 

Bill had to feed his family and found that the freight line industry was a good place to do that until 1967 when he opened Angelo Brick and Supply with nothing more than ambition and a bobtail truck. Bill sold Angelo Brick and Supply in 1998 and began a lifelong journey into his greatest passion, spending $100 in order to make $80 ranching. 

In 1974 Bill married Marilyn Smith and spent the next 50 years on any and every dance floor they could find. Bill was a proud member of Southland Baptist Church and The Grand Lodge of Texas Masons. 

Bill is preceded in death by his parents, Walter and Iola Taylor, & his wife Marilyn Taylor. Bill is survived by children Jimmy Taylor and his wife Pamela of San Antonio, Texas, Kay Sheehan of Tulsa, OK, Donna Fortner and husband Michael of Plano, Texas and Pat Smith and her husband Bob of Marshall, Texas. Bill is also survived by numerous grandchildren and great grandchildren. 

A Memorial service will be held at Johnson's Funeral Chapel at 2:00pm Saturday July 12th with a private burial to follow at a later date. 

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you make a memorial donation to The West Texas Boys Ranch.

The family would also like to thank Mimi Hernandez and Sharon Flores for so many years of personal care and God given patience.

Luis Lara, 71, of Seguin, passed peacefully into the arms of his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, Tuesday, July 15, 2025.

Mr. Lara was born on April 23, 1954, in Robert Lee, to Sara and Luther Lara, Luis lived a life grounded in faith, love, and service to others.

A devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend, Luis was known for his unwavering faith and steadfast heart. His life echoed the words of 2 Timothy 4:7: "I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith." He entered heaven surrounded by the love and prayers of those who cherished him.

Luis dedicated over 40 years to working in the oil fields with Amerada Hess and Apache in Monument, New Mexico. After retirement, he found joy and passion once again, working with tractors at Triple B Ranch in Lockhart. His strong work ethic and integrity touched every aspect of his life. Whether leading or serving, Luis did everything "as unto the Lord."

He found beauty in life's simplest pleasures-fishing with his best friend/brother-in-law, David Lopez, and dancing with his beloved wife. He loved to tend to his yard, and often his neighbors' too, and proudly showed his Mellow Yellow 1954 Chevy truck at parades and car shows. His kindness, generosity, and that unforgettable "million-dollar" smile brought light wherever he went.

Above all, Luis loved Jesus and serving his community at Abundant+ Church Central Texas. His life was a reflection of humility, grace, and a servant's heart. He gave freely, loved deeply, and lived with a strength that inspired all who knew him.

Luis is survived by his beloved wife, Yolanda Campos Lara, his lifelong dance partner of 22 years; his daughters, Angela Reyna and husband (Ysidoro Reyna), Vanessa Lara (Rene Hernandez), Amy Marquez (Ricardo Marquez), and Janie Lara (Pete Santos); and his son, Michael Dominguez; dear friends, Chris Arce, Toni Winters, Tommy Barron, and Rey Almanza.

He leaves behind his cherished grandchildren, Oscar Baeza, Christopher Jackson, Analisa Marquez, Blake Gonzales, Johnathan Lara, Emily Gonzalez, Madison Lara, Jazmine Gonzalez, Klarysa Baeza, Kaila Gonzales, Ariana Perez, Eric Hernandez, Andrew Gonzalez, Anaya Hernandez, Dymarie Dominguez, Leah Marquez, Eli Marquez; his great grandchildren, Orian Baeza, Scarlet Jackson, Yarecli Lara, Gregorio Gonzales, Aurelio Gonzalez, Santiago Lara, Solen Baeza.

Luis is also survived by his brothers, Luther Lara Jr. (Lidia Lara) and Jimmy Lara (Martha Lara); and his sisters, Janie Munoz (Jimmy Munoz) and Christina Abalos (Manuel Abalos).

In addition, he will also be remembered by numerous brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, cousins, nieces, nephews, and countless friends whose lives he touched with his generosity, sense of humor, and love, and who will miss him dearly.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Luther and Sara Lara Sr.; his daughter, Debra Lara; his grandson, James Luis Salazar; his granddaughter, Evah Marie Gonzalez; and his great-grandson, Samuel Luther Jackson; his siblings, Ynes Lara, Joe Lara, Julia Garza, Frances Garcia, Vivian Flores, Mary Ochoa, and Connie Espinoza.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, July 17, 2025, from 4:00 PM until 6:00 PM for family and friends, and public viewing will be Friday, July 18, 2025, from 10:00 AM until 8:00 PM, with a shared memory service will be 5:00 PM at Robert Massie Riverside Chapel in San Angelo.

A celebration of Luis's life will be held on Saturday, July 19, 2025, at 10:00 AM at Robert Massie Riverside Chapel with Pastor Brandon Hollar, pastor of Abundant+ Church Central Texas, officiating. Burial will follow at Robert Lee Hispanic Cemetery under the direction of Robert Massie Funeral Home.

Though we grieve his earthly absence, we rejoice in the promise of eternal life and the legacy of love and faith he leaves behind. Luis Lara now walks healed and whole on heaven's streets of gold. He has finished his race, and his faith has been fulfilled.

Shirley Jeanine Gonzalez, 54, passed away Sunday, July 13, 2025, in San Angelo.

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

Mrs. Gonzalez was born July 19, 1971 in Indianapolis, Indiana to James and Trena Meyers. Shirley has lived in Iowa, Nebraska, Culican, Mexico, and San Angelo. She was a homemaker, mother, wife and friend to so many, Shirley was kind, loving, and a friend to all, she loved her family and Jesus with all her heart.

She had six children, 5 sons, and one precious daughter, John Michael Meyers, Javier Jesus Martinez, Robert Anthony Meyers, Jose Angel Gonzalez, Jr. and Cristian Antonio Gonzalez, and Emileah Lillianna Rogers; her husband of 25 years, Jose Angel Gonzalez, Sr.; her mother, Trena Bierman; and her big brother, John Travis Rogers; 20 grandchildren, and one great grandchild; and her special person, Mercedes Gonzalez, Cristians wife. She was always there for Shirley and the rest of the family. Shirley was preceded in death by her maternal grandparents, James and Shirley Daily; and paternal grandparents, Richard and Donna Jean Meyers.

Billy Jay Wells, age 82, passed away on July 17, 2025, in San Angelo, Texas.

Bill was born and raised in Midland, Texas, as an only child. He was raised by his single mother after his father was killed serving in World War II. This early experience helped shape Bill’s strong character, resilience, and deep appreciation for family.

An extremely talented artist and teacher, Bill spent 30 years sharing his passion for art with others. He dedicated many summers to volunteering with the Boy Scouts and Boy’s Ranch, reflecting his deep commitment to helping endangered youth. Bill also worked for the National Park Service in Colorado, where he combined his love for nature and public service.

Bill was an avid golfer who had more than one hole-in-one on the golf course! He never stopped playing and spent many happy hours on the course, enjoying both the game and the friendships it brought him.

Known for his quick wit, Bill always had a short joke ready to brighten the room, but when he told a story, it was a doozy—captivating all who listened.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Paula O'Connor Wells; his son, Marty Wells, and daughter-in-law Kim Wells; and his grandchildren: Cassidy Wells, Tanner Wells and wife Anna, and Kensey Wells.

Bill’s extended family includes stepchildren Michael O'Connor and wife, Susan, Melaina McGregor, and Timothy O'Connor and wife, Fawne. He was the proud step-grandfather to 11 step-grandchildren and 3 step-great-grandchildren, all of whom he loved dearly.

Bill was preceded in death by his parents, Billie Lee Wells and Lou Alma Henshaw Wells, and his lifelong friend, Fred Jones.

Bill will be remembered for his deep love of family, his artistic spirit, and the warmth, kindness, and wisdom he shared with all who knew him. He leaves behind a legacy of generosity, humor, and quiet strength.

A memorial service will be held on Friday, July 25th at 3:00 p.m. at Harper Funeral Home. Friends and family are invited to attend and celebrate Bill’s life.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Hospice of San Angelo, who took excellent care of Bill prior to his death.

Murry Eugene “Gene” Oleson, of San Angelo, passed away on July 15, 2025 at the age of 90. He was born November 9, 1934 in Hobbs, New Mexico to Rufus Murry Oleson and Eula Faye Hines.

As a youth, Gene worked on farms and attended various schools in Blanton, Covington, Blum, Oscelo, and Menard, Texas. He completed high school in San Angelo at Lakeview where he played football his senior year.

After graduation, Gene took a job in Odessa with Furr Food Grocery. On August 23, 1954, he married Sharon Rose Graham in Villa Acunia, Mexico and they made their home in Odessa and later in Snyder where their first daughter was born.

On February 20, 1957 Gene entered the Army. He trained at Fort Bliss and then served at Ladd Air Force Base, where his second child, a son, was born. Gene served next at Fort Lewis, Washington. He reenlisted there and was sent to Fort Gordon, Georgia for field radio repair school. He served at Fort Ord, California and again at Fort Lewis, Washington before being sent to Korea.

Gene was reassigned to the Washington DC area as NCOIC of MDW Audio and Recording section. He was responsible for setting up sound systems for Presidents Kennedy, Johnson, Hoover and for the Kennedy funeral. His second daughter was born there.

Gene served two tours in Vietnam separated by training in Fort Mommouth, New Jersey and followed by additional training there. He retired after a final 30 months assignment in Germany.

Gene was awarded the National Defense Service Medal, Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal, Republic of Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with Palm, Meritorious Unit Commendation, Army Commendation Medal with first Oak Leaf Cluster, Good Conduct Medal Clasp, Bronze 5 Loops, Vietnam Service Medal with 1 Silver Service Star and with 1 Bronze Service Star.

Back in San Angelo Gene's advanced training in radio, microwave, and satellite systems prepared him for a second career with General Telephone where he rose in the ranks over the next twenty years. During part of his time with GTE he worked in Oklahoma where his fourth child, a daughter, was born.

Gene tried a third career by owning an auto parts store in Snyder for about three years. He finally settled on his final career of buying, remodeling and renting homes in San Angelo.

In 2007, Gene lost his wife, Sharon of 53 years to cancer. After several years, Gene met and married Sheila Head. They worked together on the rental homes, played 42 with friends, and square danced far and wide.

Gene was preceded in death by his parents, his wife, Sharon, and his daughter, Angie Baker.

Gene is survived by his wife, Sheila, his son, Murry Wayne “Bo” Oleson and wife Susan, daughters Donna Faye Hudson and husband Lawrence “Lon”, and Kara Hilmes and husband Christopher Ryan. Gene is also survived by son-in-law Kenneth Baker, grandchildren Josh, Cameron, and Kenny Baker, Matthew and Steven Hudson, Morgan (Hudson) Roden and husband Tyler and Tristan Hilmes. Gene is survived by a great-grandson Hudson “Huddy” James Roden. He is also survived by stepdaughters Shelley Barnes and Amanda Lee.

Visitation will be held at Harper Funeral Home, San Angelo, on Monday, July 21st from 5:00-7:00pm. Funeral service will be Tuesday, July 22nd at 2:00pm at Harper Funeral Home followed by a military graveside service at Fairmont Cemetery, San Angelo.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to or to Meals for the Elderly or Operation Homefront.

Donald Ray Baker, age 77, of San Angelo, Texas, passed away peacefully on July 15,2025.

He was born on December 5, 1947, to Leonard and Amy Baker of San Angelo. Donald graduated from Lakeview High School and began working for GTE soon after, until his retirement in 1997. He also proudly served his country in the National Guard, and was an honorary lifetime member of the San Angelo Stock Show and Rodeo. After his retirement from GTE, he stepped into what he considered his true calling, “a retail beverage distribution specialist”, at the famous Blaine’s Pub in San Angelo.

Donald was preceded in death by his parents and his eldest son Clint Baker.

He is survived by his wife, Linda; children Stacey Woodall and husband Michael of Winters, son Jason Sharpes and wife Melanie, of Ballinger; grandchildren, Hannah Parker and husband Jeff of Belton, Sam Woodall of Winters, Kyle Nealey of Ballinger, Ryan Nealey and wife Sierra of Ballinger, Ayrn Yanez and husband Blaine of Miles; brother-in-law Charles Manis of San Antonio; nieces Lainy Glasser of Temple, and Erika Martinez and husband Jorge of Lozano; and several great grandchildren. In addition, he had friends he considered family; Clay and Debbie Cross, Steve and Anna Forehand, John and Linda Walker, Bobby and Shiralon Stevens, Wayne and Sammie Matthews, the Ferguson family, Douglass Burdette, and “The Tribe”.

Known as “Pop” to his family, “Baker” to many and “Friend” to all, Donald lived his life in service to others. No matter if it was a task to be done or simply a kind word to be said, he handled everything and everyone with a loving touch and a steady presence that instantly put everyone at ease making it seem as though all was right with the world. He was a lover of good music, friendly neighborhood bars, road trips, cold Lone Star Beer, dancehalls, and good stories. There was no need for Google if you called for “facts from the Baker Almanac.” He touched the lives of everyone who knew him and we are all the better for it. Upon seeing him, the heavenly hosts rejoiced, for just as he went to meet Jesus, he heard, “Well done, good and faithful servant. Welcome home.”

Graveside services for Donald will be held on Tuesday, July 22, 2025, at Lawnhaven Memorial Gardens at 11:00 AM, with a celebration of Life to follow at Blaine’s Pub.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to Dr. Justin Jones, and the nurses of ICU and 4 South Med/Surg at Shannon Medical Center, and Hospice of San Angelo. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to Hospice of San Angelo or a favorite charity.

In Loving Memory of Ramiro Reyes (1953-2025), Born in Monte Escobedo, Zacatecas to Juan Pablo Reyes and Elidia Sanchez.

With deep love and gratitude, the family of Ramiro Reyes announces his peaceful death

surrounded by his family. He carried with him the traditions and values of traditional Mexican heritage—marked by resilience, humility, and a love for life.

At the young age of 14, and with big dreams, he set out to create his own journey in the world. His dedication and work ethic were unmistakable through the years. After moving to California, he worked tirelessly during the day and went to school during the night to become a licensed electrician. In 1991, he moved to Texas without knowing anyone there, searching for a more peaceful life with better opportunities for his family. There he poured his passion into building something truly special- El Torito Mexican and Seafood Restaurant that he ran for 20 successful years. The family restaurant atmosphere was quickly felt throughout the community bringing people together through flavor, laughter and unity. Side by side with his beloved wife Leticia Reyes, and with the help of his children, the restaurant became a reflection of the family bond he so deeply cherished and the reason for which he stated he opened it to begin with. Simultaneously, during these years, his entrepreneurial vision also led him to become a real estate investor which remains as a lasting legacy for his family even to this day.

His stories speak of a journey filled with sacrifice and perseverance but one always driven by a profound desire to create a better life for his children. He was also a believer in helping others along the way. In his final hours he said that he did it all for his family.

Ramiro found joy in the presence of his family—gathering with loved ones, sharing stories,

meals, and moments that became treasured memories. He found peace in barbecuing in the backyard, tending to his garden, enjoying nature, and revisiting the beauty of his homeland. He also loved to cook for everyone, sharing warmth and tradition through his meals and making every bite a celebration of togetherness. His days were often filled with the music he loved—rancheras and corridos, that brought back cherished memories from years gone by.

His story is one of a life lived fully leaving behind an impactful imprint in the

world. He will be remembered not only for the life he built, but for the laughter he shared, the hands he held, the music he enjoyed, and the love and traditions he passed down.

“His memory will forever live on in the hearts of those who knew him, loved him, and were

shaped by his sacrifices and devotion. He leaves behind a legacy built on family, hard work, and the strength of a life well lived.”

He is survived by his wife Leticia Reyes, mother Elidia Sanchez, five siblings, and six

children: Maribel Reyes, Monica Reyes Mendoza (Jimbo), Liliana Mata (Jorge), Leticia

Mata (Daniel), Ramiro Reyes Jr. (Jordan), and Juan Reyes (Katy)—each a testament to his

quiet strength, loving heart, and guiding presence.

His legacy continues through 17 grandchildren—Alexis White (Gage), Jaden Lujan (Josiah), Natalia Mata, Antoinette Barragan, Maribel Barragan, Jimbo Mendoza, Jorge Mata, Marci Reyes, Tony Barragan, Daniel Mata, Sophia Mata, Matt Barragan, Noah Mata, Chancho Reyes, Emily Mata, Murphy Reyes, and Katalina Reyes—and three great-grandchildren: Grayson ,Winston and Brixton White, each carrying forward the love, wisdom, and joy he gave so freely.

A rosary will be held on Thursday, July 17, 2025 at 5:00 PM at Sacred Heart Cathedral. Funeral Mass will be held on Friday, July 18, 2025 at 10:00 am at Sacred Heart Cathedral with interment to follow at Fairmount Cemetery.

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En Memoria de Ramiro Reyes (1953-2025), Nacido en Monte Escobedo, Zacatecas, hijo de Juan Pablo Reyes y Elidia Sánchez.

Con profundo amor y gratitud, la familia de Ramiro Reyes anuncia su muerte en paz, rodeado de su familia. Él llevaba consigo las tradiciones y valores de la herencia Mexicana tradicional—marcados por la resiliencia, la humildad, y un amor por la vida.

A la joven edad de 14 años, y con grandes sueños, se propuso crear su propio camino en el mundo. Su dedicación y ética de trabajo fueron inconfundibles a lo largo de los años. Después de mudarse a California, trabajó incansablemente durante el día y asistió a la escuela por la noche para convertirse en electricista con licencia. En 1991, se trasladó a Texas sin conocer a nadie allí, buscando una vida más pacífica con mejores oportunidades para su familia. Allí volcó su pasión en construir algo realmente especial: El Torito Restaurante Mexicano y de Mariscos que dirigió durante 20 años exitosos. La atmósfera del restaurante familiar se sintió rápidamente a lo largo de la comunidad uniendo a las personas a través del sabor, la risa y la unidad. Junto a su amada esposa Leticia Reyes, y con la ayuda de sus hijos, el restaurante se convirtió en un reflejo del vínculo familiar que tanto valoraba y la razón por la que declaró que lo abrió en primer lugar. Al mismo tiempo, durante estos años, su visión empresarial también lo llevó a convertirse en un inversionista inmobiliario, lo que sigue siendo un legado duradero para su familia incluso hasta el día de hoy.

Sus historias hablan de un viaje lleno de sacrificio y perseverancia, pero siempre impulsado por un profundo deseo de crear una mejor vida para sus hijos. También era un creyente en ayudar a los demás en el camino. En sus últimas horas, dijo que lo hizo todo por su familia.

Ramiro encontró alegría en la presencia de su familia: reuniéndose con seres queridos, compartiendo historias, comidas y momentos que se convirtieron en recuerdos atesorados. Encontró paz al hacer barbacoas en el patio trasero, cuidando su jardín, disfrutando de la naturaleza y volviendo a visitar la belleza de su tierra natal.

También amaba cocinar para todos, compartiendo calidez y tradición a través de sus comidas y haciendo de cada bocado una celebración de la unión. Sus días estaban a menudo llenos de la música que amaba—rancheras y corridos, que traían de vuelta recuerdos atesorados de años pasados. Su historia es la de una vida vivida plenamente, dejando una huella impactante en el mundo.

Se le recordará no solo por la vida que construyó, sino por la risa que compartió, las manos que sostuvo, la música que disfrutó y el amor y las tradiciones que transmitió.

"Su memoria vivirá para siempre en los corazones de aquellos que lo conocieron, lo amaron y fueron moldeados por sus sacrificios y devoción. Deja un legado construido sobre la familia, el trabajo duro y la fortaleza de una vida bien vivida."

Le sobreviven su esposa Leticia Reyes, su madre Elidia Sanchez, cinco hermanos y seis hijos: Maribel Reyes, Monica Reyes Mendoza (Jimbo), Liliana Mata (Jorge), Leticia Mata (Daniel), Ramiro Reyes Jr. (Jordan) y Juan Reyes (Katy)—cada uno un testimonio de su fuerza silenciosa, corazón amoroso y presencia orientadora. Su legado continúa a través de 17 nietos: Alexis White (Gage), Jaden Lujan (Josiah), Natalia Mata, Antoinette Barragan, Maribel Barragan, Jimbo Mendoza, Jorge Mata, Marci Reyes, Tony Barragan, Daniel Mata, Sophia Mata, Matt Barragan, Noah Mata, Chancho Reyes, Emily Mata, Murphy Reyes y Katalina Reyes; y tres bisnietos: Grayson, Winston y Brixton White, cada uno llevando adelante el amor, la sabiduría y la alegría que él dio tan libremente.