Donald Clay Keeney of San Angelo, Texas, peacefully passed away at his home in his sleep and went to be with the Lord on September 17, 2025, at the age of 80.

Born on February 1, 1945, in San Angelo, he was the beloved son of the late Clay John and Ethel Louise Keeney. Donald was a proud graduate of Central High School, Class of 1963, where he served as drum major of the Bobcat Band for three consecutive years. He attended San Angelo College and East Texas State University before earning his Bachelor of Arts in Art from the University of Texas at Austin on May 31, 1969.

Shortly after graduation, Donald was drafted into the U.S. Army and served with the 82nd Airborne Division at Fort Bragg, North Carolina, during the Vietnam War.

On June 1, 1968, Donald married the love of his life, Betty Jo Templeton. Together, they recently celebrated 57 years of marriage, raising two children and building a life filled with love, creativity, and faith.

Donald had a long and successful 20-year career with Sears Roebuck before retiring to fully embrace his lifelong passion for woodworking. A gifted artist and craftsman, he became known for his intricate wooden crosses and religious artwork. His iconic "cross and dove" design was eventually copyrighted, and his hand-cut crosses—estimated to number over 25,000—can be found in homes and churches across the United States. His final project, an 8-foot-long Noah’s Ark featuring hundreds of individually carved animals, was near completion at the time of his passing and stands as a testament to his remarkable skill and devotion.

He is survived by his loving wife, Betty; his children, Jayland Keeney and wife Adria of The Woodlands, TX, and Jennifer Haile and husband Norval of Abilene, TX; and his cherished grandchildren: Kanton (fiancée Renee Townsend) and Katie Hoelscher of North Richland Hills, and Cole, Carter, Cami, and Case Keeney of The Woodlands, Texas. He is also survived by his brother, Kenneth Wayne Keeney and wife Linda of Austin, TX.

Donald treasured his lifelong friendships and the memories he made with them. He had a special fondness for his Cushman Eagles and his famed “57 two-door sedan delivery,” which will eventually be restored in his memory. His close-knit group of friends, known as "The Prang Gang," formed during junior high, and they remain strong after more than 70 years.

A visitation will be held on Friday, September 19, 2025, from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m. at Harper Funeral Home in San Angelo. Graveside services will take place at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, September 20, 2025, at Mullins Cemetery, just east of Veribest, TX, officiated by Preacher Bill Welch.

Donald will be remembered for his faith, his artistry, his love for family, and the legacy he leaves behind, both in wood and in heart.

Ronal Leonard Daniel, age 82, took his final journey home on September 17, 2025, surrounded by his loving family.

Ron was born on December 24, 1942, in Clifton, Texas to Wallace and Sylvia Daniel.

He is preceded in death by is parents Wallace and Sylvia Daniel, brother, Wallace Daniel Jr., and grandson, Carson Daniel.

He is survived by his wife, Linda Daniel, children: Debra Blair (Gerald), Dana Acosta, and John Dusty Daniel (Holley); grandchildren: Stephanie Godwin (Marshall), Rhett Blair (Krystal), Whitney Powell, Lindsey Powell, Taylor Powell, Camden Daniel, Colton Daniel, Rachel Light, Sarah Light and Chase Light (Tate); great grandchildren: Reagan, Brody, Hadleigh, Avery, Novalee, Jacobi and Kynlei.

Ron lived a full life. He served in the Army for twenty-four plus years. Once he left the military, he was an expert electrician for years until he decided to go back to school to become a nurse. He graduated nursing school at the age of fifty and worked in the medical field for ten years until he retired. In this new chapter of his life, he kept busy raising grandkids. He was incredibly involved with his church family. He and Linda worked in the youth department and with young married couples for years. He was an ordained deacon and enjoyed going to youth activities and multiple mission trips. He was a member of the Texas Baptist Men's Association and volunteered at Sonrisas Trail's Therapedic Riding. In the last few years, he enjoyed being a part of the NDC Outdoor Legacy.

Ron, known to all as "Papa," was a devoted husband to his wife Linda for sixty-two wonderful years. Family meant everything to Papa and was his greatest accomplishment. He spent every day loving them through everything he did. Papa was an avid football fan and loved watching sports with the family and going to all the kids' sporting events. He loved fishing, watching deer and telling tall tales. Not a day went by without a grandchild sitting with him in his chair watching cartoons. We all have great memories that we will cherish forever. His love was a beacon that will illuminate our lives, and we will always remember his smile.

At Papa's request there will be a private family gathering to celebrate all the cherished memories. Donations may be made in memory of him to Tunnel to Towers and Wounded Warriors.

The family would like to express their gratitude to Rehab Hospice of San Angelo for their excellent compassion and care during this challenging time.

Frances Loretta Zipay of San Angelo, Texas, passed away on 16 September 2025 at the age of 75. She was born on 27 April, 1950 in Brooklyn, New York to parents Michael and Mary Zipay. She passed peacefully at the Park Plaza Nursing Center where she had been a resident for over 10 years.

Frances attended St Anthony of Padua Grammar School in Greenpoint, Brooklyn, NY and then attended Mater Christi High School in Astoria, Queens, NY. She worked at several businesses in Brooklyn as a bookkeeper. She loved the Mets and enjoyed roller derby and watching World Wrestling Federation matches on TV. She struggled with mental health issues throughout her life and was disabled in 2005.

Frances is survived by her sister Dolores Kent and brother-in-law Robert Kent and nephews Michael and Daniel Kent of San Angelo, TX. Nephew Chris Tomczak, wife Melissa and sons Ethan, Luc and Robby of Allen, TX and nephew Kevin Tomczak and son Nash and daughters Krista, Grace and Hope of Montgomery, AL. She is also survived by numerous cousins and friends in the Tri-State area.

Frances was predeceased by her parents and sister Mary Ann Tomczak (December 2023).

Gary Don Hodges, of San Angelo passed away on September 16, 2025, at the age of 76. He was born on March 24, 1949, in San Angelo, Texas to parents William and Wanda (Bates) Hodges.

Gary graduated from Texas A&M University College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences in 1972 and then completed an internship at the University of Georgia. Upon completion, he returned to San Angelo where he opened Los Caballos Veterinary Clinic. After finding he was not ready for retirement, Gary opened Western Veterinary Hospital in 2015 where he practiced until his retirement in December 2024. In addition, he serviced at the president of the San Angelo Stock Show and Rodeo Association from 2001 to 2002. Gary enjoyed spending time at his family ranch in Melvin.

He was preceded in death by his parents William and Wanda. Gary is survived by his wife of 50 years, Kathy Hodges of San Angelo, and his son, Slade Hodges of Austin.

A memorial service will take place on September 20, 2025, at 2 PM at The Spur Arena.

William Douglas (Doug) Paschal left this earth Monday, September 15, 2025, just one month shy of his 78th birthday, at his residence in San Angelo, Texas.

Doug was born on October 13, 1947, in Ballinger, Texas, to William (Bill) and Anne Paschal. He attended San Angelo High School, and later joined the U.S. Navy during the Vietnam era.

A skilled craftsman, Doug excelled at anything he attempted. His careers included Patterson’s Office Equipment and Welex, but he spent the majority of his life carrying on his father’s business, William R. Paschal & Sons fine woodworking company. It was in this occupation that Doug earned the reputation as being one of the very best finish men in the region, with an uncanny ability to match colors and sheen of wood, while managing the day-to-day operations of the business.

Doug also enjoyed serving his community, especially in his many years with the Downtown Lions Club, both as an officer and member. One of his favorite local activities was the annual boat race, where he volunteered each year to provide logistical support. Over the years, he enjoyed “anything fast,” especially his motorcycle and was exceptional in water skiing.

Preceding him in death were his parents and grandparents, along with grandson, Shane Douglas Paschal.

Doug is survived by his wife of forty-eight years, Jone, and children, Kelly Stone, Kirk Paschal, Scott Paschal, and Donnie Weaver; along with his siblings, Paul Paschal and Susan Spates; grandchildren Olivia Paschal-Fisher; Erin Cisneros (Edgar), Kenzie Osteen (Bannon), Asa Paschal, Broc Paschal, Slade Paschal, Shelby Paschal, and Ryan Weaver (Alyssa); great-grandchildren Brady and Noah Weaver; and a host of other family, friends, and coworkers.

A memorial service and family visitation will be held Saturday, September 27, from 5:00-7:00 p.m. at Harper Funeral Home in San Angelo, who is handling the arrangements.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be sent to San Angelo’s Downtown Lions Club, or your favorite charity.

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.