On December 1, 2024, Harold White Brothers, of San Angelo, Texas, passed from this life into eternal life at the age of 89.999. Harold Brothers was born at home in Nashville, Tennessee, to Clifford and Martha King Brothers on December 2, 1934, joining his older brother, Clifford Prater, and older sister, Charlotte Ann.

Harold started school at Joe Wheeler Elementary School in Decatur, Alabama. The family then moved to Christiana, Tennessee, onto a 110 acre farm sold to them by “Big Dad” and “Big Mamma” Brothers (Harold’s grandparents). There they farmed and hand-milked over 20 cows several times a day. Harold told his kids many stories of their mules, Jack and John, the latter of which had his ear bitten by Clifford Sr., while being ornery. This seemed to make a real impression on Harold - but did not seem to dissuade him from being ornery himself at times. In his senior year, in 1953, Harold moved with his family to Pecos, Texas, where he graduated from Pecos High School.

Harold attended Abilene Christian College. His children enjoyed hearing the stories of his adventures while at ACC. For example, he met his first wife, Shirley McCullough, while stopped at a red light in Abilene. Harold’s friend was driving the car he was in and challenged her to a race. Shirley revved the engine of her car in acceptance, and the light changed. The young men, thinking they had the girls beat, realized Shirley had actually just turned off at a place to eat. The boys, of course, circled back and went inside to meet them. Harold and Shirley married on August 7, 1955, in Hereford, Texas.

Harold received his business degree from West Texas State in Canyon, Texas. He had multiple jobs during his schooling including working at a photography studio and working at the Department of Public Safety where he was employed as a dispatch operator.

Three weeks into his senior year of college, he received word that Uncle Sam needed him, so he reported to Fort Bliss. During his service, he and his platoon found themselves on the tarmac ready to deploy to Cuba during the Cuban Missile Crisis. As a Staff Sergeant in charge of personnel, he’d already prepared the paperwork for his own replacement. Yet he was ready to make this sacrifice without a weapon. As a conscientious objector, due to his Christian beliefs, he was willing to die - but not kill. At the very last moment, they were ordered to stand down.

While next stationed at Fort Sam Houston in San Antonio, Texas, Cherise Rayne’ (Brothers) Basye, was born.

Following his years in the military, Harold went to Southwestern Oklahoma State University where he attended pharmacy school. He also taught chemistry labs during that time. Harold received his pharmacy degree from Southwestern Oklahoma State Pharmacy School in Weatherford, Oklahoma, in 1966. While a student in pharmacy school, Harold worked with college students at the church where he and Shirley attended, and he also preached at Colony Church of Christ at the request of one of his professors. Harold received the Lundsford Richardson Pharmacy Award, and he was elected president of his APHA Student Chapter.

It was during this time that Steven Harold Brothers was born. After graduation from pharmacy school, Harold and his family moved to Littlefield, Texas, where he worked at Britton’s pharmacy.

The family then moved to Dumas, Texas, in 1967 where Harold bought M&M Pharmacy and Gift Shop, with Tom Armstrong, his brother-in-law, who married Shirley’s sister, Mary Lou. The family attended 1st Street Church of Christ, where Harold was a deacon and taught Bible class. Harold was very active in the community where he served as President of the School Board for Dumas Independent School District. He also was a member of the Kiwanis Club.

During those years in Dumas, Harold and Shirley were blessed through adoption with another son in 1969, William Todd Brothers, and daughter, Yvonne Michelle (Brothers) Long in 1970.

After Shirley’s passing in 1977, Harold met Karen (Ratliff) Grundy through mutual friends. He drove to Amarillo several nights a week as they got to know each other. Karen had two children of her own, Phillip Brant Grundy, and Elisa Lynn Grundy. The two families met in the spring of 1979 eating at Pizza Planet. Karen would talk about how children kept filing out of the car, one by one by one by one. It was quite a sight. Then on July 14, 1979, Harold and Karen were married. Together they became known as The Brothers Bunch.

In December of 1980, the Brothers Bunch moved to San Angelo, where Harold bought Angelus Pharmacy and worked there until he sold it to go to work for Shannon Hospital. He worked relief work for Shannon until just a few years ago.

The Brothers’ family worshipped at Johnson Street Church of Christ. Harold served as a deacon and then an elder for many years. Harold was extremely involved with the benevolence ministry and taking care of others. In the summer of 1995, he drove a bus on a youth mission trip to Atlanta, to help those who were disadvantaged. That trip prompted the beginnings of the COW (closet on wheels) which evolved into Rust Street Ministries - a ministry that provides food, clothing, household items and furniture to those that need assistance.

Harold loved singing and he loved Southern Gospel Music. For 37 years, he traveled the country singing with the Embers Quartet. They had opportunities to sing with the Blackwood Brothers, the Cathedrals and the Kingsmen. One of their most special moments was singing, “Amazing Grace”, with BJ Thomas.

While living in San Angelo, the Brothers Bunch was honored in 1985 with the San Angelo Family of the Year Award.

Harold didn’t always have a lot of time for his own hobbies with all his kids’ activities, but he enjoyed restoring antiques, clocks, watches, furniture and - almost - an MG. He loved traveling with Mama B and family - especially traveling down the Mississippi River on the Mississippi Queen Paddleboat. He would sit out on the boat deck after everyone went to bed and think about the adventures of Tom Sawyer and Huckleberry Finn.

Faith, family, and friends were the hallmark of Harold Brothers’ life. His faith was the cornerstone of the way he treated his family and his friends, and if he ever met you, you knew that you were his friend. He loved lighthouses and often spoke about the importance of a lighthouse - shining light in darkness. He wanted his life to do the same.

Harold was preceded in death by his parents, Clifford and Martha Brothers, his brother, Clifford Brothers, his sister, Charlotte (Brothers) Wiser, and Shirley (McCullough) Brothers.

He is survived by his wife, Karen Brothers of San Angelo, three sons, Steve Brothers of Austin: Todd Brothers of San Angelo; and Brant Grundy and his wife Jana of Houston; Three daughters, Cherise (Brothers) Basye and her husband, Tom Basye of Lubbock; Michelle (Brothers) Long and her husband, Cory Long of Lubbock; and Elisa (Grundy) Griffith and her husband, Mike Griffith of San Angelo; 11 grandchildren; Austin Basye, Jatawn Mahan, Danae Jackson, Lexa Long, Luke Glover, Quinn Brothers, Colebin Griffith, Caden Griffith, Jesse Brothers, Canon Griffith, and Alex Grundy. And 8 great-grandchildren; Asher, Eaven, Arnhem, Shirley, Kenna, Elsie, Emily, and Owen. There are numerous nieces and nephews.

There will be a family visitation on Sunday, December 8, 2024, from 3 p.m.- 5 p.m. at Harper Funeral Home in San Angelo. The memorial service will be held at Johnson St Church of Christ in San Angelo, Texas, on Monday, December 9, 2024, at 10 a.m. and burial will follow at Lawnhaven Cemetery at 4989 RM-1223, San Angelo, Texas.

Pallbearers:

Steve Brothers

Todd Brothers

Brant Grundy

Tom Basye

Cory Long

Mike Griffith

David Hettick

Monte Mahon

Robert Talley

 

Honorary Pallbearers:

James Crowder and Harold’s grandchildren.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that memorials for Harold Brothers be made to Rust Street Ministries, 803 Rust Street, San Angelo, TX 76903, ph. 325.486.1004 - or via the donate button at the top right of their website:

 

http://ruststreetministries.org/

 

Mary Lou Swanson, born Mary Lou Swihart, ran into the arms of Jesus on December 1, 2024. She was born on August 28, 1932, in Warsaw, Indiana, to Benjamin Franklin and Florence Snyder Swihart. Mary Lou graduated from Warsaw High School in 1950. On December 21, 1952, she married the love of her life, Jack Wayne Swanson. Together, they celebrated 66 wonderful years of marriage until Jack’s passing in 2019.

Mary Lou and Jack were proud parents of five children: Debbie Olive (Tommy), Rusty Swanson (Sherry), Terry Swanson (Tammy), Tim Swanson (Bea), and Angela Swanson. They were also blessed with 22 grandchildren, 25 great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandchild. Mary Lou is also survived by her brother-in-law, Jon Swanson.

Mary Lou was an exceptional cook, known for preparing meals that not only nourished but brought people together. Her kitchen was the heart of her home, where family, friends, and even strangers often gathered to share laughter, stories, and love. Her home was always open to anyone in need of a meal, a kind word, or a place to feel welcome.

Mary Lou was an adventurous, devoted partner and mother who worked alongside Jack through their many business ventures, from running an oil distributorship in Indiana to establishing a KFC franchise in San Angelo, Texas, where they moved their young family. Mary Lou’s deep faith guided her life, and she and Jack were instrumental in founding the Christian Motor Coach Association (Coaches for Christ), blessing countless lives across the country.

Mary Lou was known for her unwavering faith, kind spirit, and devotion to her family and community. She leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and service that will continue to inspire those who knew and loved her.

A funeral service to celebrate her life will be held on Friday, December 6, 2024, at 1 p.m. at Johnson’s Funeral Home in San Angelo, Texas.

Barney Mendez Jr., of San Angelo, passed away on November 30, 2024. He was born on January 9, 1981 in San Angelo to Barney Mendez Sr. and Lisa Mendez.

Barney Jr. attended Lakeview High School and Graduated in the class of 2000. He has three children, Arianna, Mary (Rebecca), and Barney.

Barney was a proud member of the Classic Creation Car Club and had a passion for cars, music, and break dancing, and will always be remembered for his contagious smile and the love he showed to everyone- he knew no stranger.

He is preceded in death by his Grandparents, Conception and Rutina Mendez, and Mary Martinez; Aunts and Uncles, Oscar Mendez Sr., Pete Martinez, Candy Martinez, and Manuel and Emma Bara; and Cousin, Fernando Bara. He is survived by his parent’s, Barney Sr. and Margaret Mendez, and Lisa Mendez; Siblings, Ronnie Mendez, Krystal Mendez, Marial Mendez, and Dakotah Walraven; Children, Arianna Mendez, Mary (Rebecca) Mendez, and Barney Mendez III; and Niece, Jesslyn Valverde Mendez.

A visitation for Barney will be held Thursday, December 5, 2024 from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Johnson's Funeral Home. A prayer service will occur Friday, December 6, 2024 from 6:00 PM to 7:00 PM. A funeral service will occur Saturday, December 7, 2024 from 10:00 AM with a graveside service to follow at Calvary Cemetery. Pastor Aron Gonzales of House of Jireh and Pastor Walt Landers of Life Church will precede over services. Pallbearers will include, Eric Garcia, David Garcia, Robert Flores, Frankie Flores, Carlos Mendoza, and Billy Camarillo.

David L. Adams, 82, of San Angelo, Texas passed away on Wednesday, November 27, 2024. 

He was born on July 15, 1942 in Hamilton, Texas to William Clay Adams and Lorene Proctor Adams. David attended school in San Angelo and later joined the Army. After leaving the service, David began working as a heavy equipment operator for others before going into business for himself for many years. 

David married Wanda Chowning in September 1962 and the couple had two children, Beverly Banee and David Brent. He was a devoted family man who cherished nothing more than spending time with his loved ones. This was especially the case when David became a grandfather. Being "Pa" was the greatest joy he had come to know. Whether it was winning at arm-wrestling with his grandson's high school football team, arguing if Godzilla or King Kong would win in a fight, snacking on saltine and tomato sandwiches, or enjoying a crisp Dr. Pepper and sharing a story - his grandkids would find any reason they could to spend time with Pa. It wasn't just family that grew to call David "Pa" - over the years many family friends, children's school mates, and colleagues began to address him by the name. 

David touched many lives throughout his time on Earth. From business associates to healthcare aides, David thoroughly enjoyed sharing stories and smiles where ever he went. This led to many life long friendships. One of David's closest and longest friendships was with Ronnie Rogers. The pair would get up to all kinds of antics when they were together and brought joy to each other's days. Their shenanigans will be put on hold until they're reunited again. 

David was preceded in passing by his parents, Clay and Lorene Adams; wife, Wanda Adams; son, David "Brent" Adams; and 6 siblings. 

Left to cherish David's memory are his daughter, Banee Daniels and husband Cody; grandchildren, Brandy Tyner and husband Micah, Mark Daniels, and Chelsea Cook and husband Zach; great-grandchildren, Austin Tyner, Jaron Tyner, Kamryn Daniels, Jackson Cook, and Wyatt Cook. Also left to cherish David's memory are his sister, Phyllis Smith and husband Neal; and many nieces and nephews. 

Graveside services will be held at 11 AM on Friday, December 6, 2024 at Johnson's Lawnhaven Memorial Gardens with Chaplain Rick Green officiating. 

The Adams Family would like to thank the staff of St. Gabriel's Hospice and San Angelo Nursing & Rehab for the excellent care they gave Pa during his journey.

Rudolph William Premetz, lovingly known as "Rudy", departed from this world on Saturday, November 9, 2024.

Rudy was born in Cleveland, Ohio and grew up in Buffalo, NY. Born in 1925, Rudy was an upstanding gentleman who served our country in the Army branch during WWII. He later became a respected financial adviser for a prominent company which allowed him to travel the world. He was a man of integrity with a gentle disposition, but a firm and caring heart. In accordance with his wishes, no services will be held. Rudy will live on in the hearts of those who had the privilege of knowing him.

A private memorial will be held at a later date. Arrangements are under the direction of Robert Massie Funeral Home.

Marjorie Helen (Messer) Winburne, 92, passed peacefully on December 4, 2024 in San Angelo.

Marjorie's celebration of life will be 10:00 AM on Saturday, December 7, 2024 at Lawnhaven Memorial Gardens under the direction of Robert Massie Funeral Home. At the request of Marjorie, there will not be any viewing.

She was born to Bertha and Horton Messer on April 27, 1932, in Santa Monica, California. Marjorie shared a happy childhood with her two sisters and one brother. As a young child the family moved to San Angelo where she graduated from San Angelo High School. Marjorie married Charles Otho Winburne, Jr. in 1950. Together they had three wonderful children. Always surrounded by family they enjoyed many years of celebrating special events, traveling, and time on the lake. Marjorie and Charles' house at Lake Nasworthy was the gathering place for most all family events and celebrations. She welcomed many family members and friends and always had a good meal to share with them. Late in her life, she enjoyed working in the school cafeteria and trying out recipes with her family.

Marjorie is survived by many who loved her dearly, including daughters, Kathy Schiller, Julie Hall and husband Dave, and son David Winburne. Also celebrating her life are Marjorie's sisters, JoAnn Motl, Dot Holley and husband Don and brother, Butch Messer. She is also survived by eight grandchildren, numerous great grandchildren, and one great great grandchild and another one on the way.

Marjorie was preceded in death by her husband, Charles and a grandson.

The family would like to thank the staff at Shannon Hospital, Meadow Creek Nursing Rehabilitation, Gentiva Hospice and the many, many friends who sent their love and prayers during Marjorie's life.

James Murrell Young Jr., beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, and friend, passed away peacefully surrounded by family. Born on September 11, 1938, in San Angelo, Texas, to Murrell and Violet Young. Jim lived a full and adventurous life, defined by his love for his family, his hard work, and his enduring faith.

From an early age, Jim showed a remarkable work ethic, beginning his first job as a paperboy. At the age of 16, he drove a very large truck with family friends to wheat harvest through several states ending in South Dakota, a chapter he often fondly reminisced about. His sense of adventure led him to join the Navy as a teenager, where he traveled the world, forming lifelong friendships and creating cherished memories in places like Japan and Australia. He was proud to be a Veteran and loved his Country.

Jim met the love of his life, Shirley Bitner, in their hometown of San Angelo and married December 17,1960. Together, they built a life of love and devotion just 13 days shy of 64 years. His work with Firestone Test Center and later Mobil Oil took their family to Fort Stockton, where they lived and thrived for many years. He retired from Mobil Oil in 1999.

An avid outdoorsman, Jim found joy in hunting and exploring the area where OC Fisher Lake was built and later fished there. Surviving the Lakeview tornado of 1953 left an indelible mark on his life—one that ensured he never wore a yellow shirt again!

Jim’s thirst for knowledge and creativity was evident throughout his life. A dedicated learner, he pursued continuing education courses and mastered many trades. His woodworking skills were extraordinary, crafting intricate wooden toys and puzzles that are now cherished by his great-granddaughter and future generations.

Jim and Shirley moved back to San Angelo when they retired, where they embarked on countless RV adventures across the U.S., often visiting their beloved grandchildren. His family was his greatest pride and joy, and he imparted lessons of hard work, perseverance, strength, and honesty to his children and grandchildren.

Jim’s faith in the Lord was steadfast throughout his life. He was a member of Fort Stockton Baptist Church and later Harris Avenue Baptist Church in San Angelo.

Jim is survived by his beloved wife, Shirley Bitner Young; his sister Ann Whitley; his brother Steve Young; and his daughters Sherry Horak (husband John), Michele Singh (husband Ted), and Jenny Goodwin (husband Scott). He also leaves behind his treasured grandchildren, Ashlen Thornton (husband Brantley) and their daughter Saige and soon-to-arrive baby girl, Austin Horak, Rylan Horak (wife Lily), Ben Goodwin, and Grace Goodwin, along with many nieces and nephews whom he deeply cherished. He is preceded in death by his parents, his brother, Tom Young, and his brothers-in-law, Buck Whitley, Ray, Winston & Harold Bitner, Jim Johnson & Jake Young.

Jim will be remembered for his boundless love for his family, his unshakable faith, his adventurous spirit, and his determination to always stay busy and learn something new. His legacy lives on in the lives of those he touched and the values he instilled in his family. He will be profoundly missed but lovingly remembered by all who knew him. His journey on earth may have ended, but his love and influence will live on forever.

A celebration of Jim’s life will be held at Harper Funeral Home in San Angelo on Saturday, December 7th at 10 a.m., with burial to follow at Fairmount Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to St. Jude’s or DAV: Disabled American Veterans in Jim’s memory.

Special thanks to Angelo Home Care, Allen, Jennifer & Alexandra Poppell, Caregivers Larry Albert, Crystal Ramirez, Rachel, Jolissa & Elivia and Veterans Administration.

 

Frank Quinn died beautifully on December 3, 2024, as he saw his living hope fulfilled in Christ Jesus. Frank considered himself an Arkansas boy, having lived there in his formative years but his birth was in Memphis, Tennessee. He was born to Roy Lee and Thay Evelyn Quinn on May 19, 1925. Frank is survived by his four children Carol, Candace, Donna and Mike all of Texas. He has six grandchildren, Amy, Jacob, Burke, Micah, Brittany and Hunter and 12 great grandchildren, Paige. Daniel, Makayla, Michael, Colston, Hudson, Ashley, Evelyn, Tess, Lily, Owen and Jack. Two grandchildren, Kathleen and Jarrod Blake preceded him in death as did his wife of fifty-two years, LaFelta. After the death of LaFelta, Frank married Veronica Krzysiak, and they enjoyed 22 years together. Veronica also preceded Frank in death.

A memorial service to remember Frank will be held at Harper Funeral Home on Sunday, December 15, 2024, at 3:00 P.M. A time of visitation will follow the service. A family burial will take place at Restland Memorial Park in Dallas, Texas.

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

 

Gerald Wayne (“Ace”) Elliott of Ferris, Texas passed away peacefully at his home on November 28, 2024 at the age of 80 years. He was born on May 8, 1944 in San Angelo, Texas to parents, Willie Elliott, Sr. and Emaline (Klattenhoff) Elliott. Gerald grew up on a dairy farm northwest of Miles, Texas. He graduated from Miles High School in 1962, where he was an all-around athlete. After high school he attended Southwestern University for a short time studying business administration. He pursued many employment interests including car salesman, bar tender, and dealer in Las Vegas, but his greatest accomplishment was evangelism. Gerald established The Church of Texas in 2002 on a five-acre tract of land off I-45 South in Ferris, Texas, where through the years he welcomed many homeless and downtrodden individuals and helped to restore them back to where they had a feeling of self-worth. He gave away thousands of Gospel CD’s at his many outreach efforts at truck stops and Walmarts in the area in an effort to spread the Word of God.

Gerald is predeceased by his parents. He is survived by his son, Scott Menchaca, and his brothers, Willie Elliott, Jr. of Marietta, Oklahoma, and Morris Elliott (Amy) of San Angelo, Texas, and numerous nieces and nephews.

Graveside services for Gerald are scheduled for Tuesday, December 3, 2024 at 2 PM at the Miles Cemetery, Miles Texas, with William Rosser, officiating. Funeral arrangements are under the direction of Harper Funeral Home, San Angelo, Texas.

“Well done, my good and faithful servant.” Until we meet again.

On November 25, 2024 we lost our much loved husband, father, and brother Patrick “Pat” Hugh Lewis. 

Pat was born on July 21, 1953 to Hugh Lewis, Jr. and Billie Partin Lewis in Robert Lee, Texas. Pat attended school in Robert Lee where he was active in various sports and FFA. He graduated from Robert Lee in 1971. 

After graduation, Pat attended school to become a physical therapy assistant. Over his lifetime, Pat made friends where ever he went. Whether he was cutting hair, doing physical therapy in the hospital / nursing homes, or working at Wal-Mart. Pat will be missed by all. 

Pat was preceded in death by his parents; brothers-in-law, Bob Hollway and Joe Moseley; and niece, Tracy Hollway Saunders. 

Left to cherish Pat’s memory are his loving wife, Debbie Lewis, whom he married in June 2014; son, Jason; sisters, Gayle Moseley and Lexie Hollway; step son, Josh Holbert; nieces, Dawn Seagler, Edie Welker, and nephews, Bobby Hollway, Cameron Hollway, and Chad Moseley. Also left to cherish Pat’s memory are his loving grandchildren and numerous great-nieces and great-nephews. 

Funeral services will be held at 11 AM on Friday, November 29, 2024 at Johnson’s Funeral Home with Pastor Bobby Roger officiating.