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.

Effie Ellen (Shook) Cochran earned her Heavenly reward on November 23rd, 2024. She was born on June 9th, 1935, to William Harrison Shook and Berta Elizabeth Brown Shook. On June 1st, 1953 she married a handsome young airman, Richard Cochran. They were married for 66 years, and have 4 children. While the Air Force took them all over the country and the world, they would always return to San Angelo, TX. 

Effie was preceded in death by parents, William and Berta Shook, her husband, Richard by 5 years and 1 day, her sisters, Wilene Gunn and husband Buddy, Juanelle Verfurth and husband Raymond, and beloved daughter-in-law Becky Cochran.

She is survived by her four children, Debbie Holland (Tony), Kenneth Cochran, Beth Shaw, and Rick Cochran (Susan), and cherished former daughter-in-law Kathy Cochran Fiscus. She was blessed with eight grandchildren, Cody Holland (Jessica), Dustin Holland (Natelle), Jason Shaw (Jasmine), Cory Cochran (Ashley), Tanner Cochran (Kaitlin), Amanda Cochran, Megan Gentry (Forrest), and Abigail Cochran. She also leaves eleven great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandchild, as well as numerous nieces, nephews, extended family and a large and devoted church family.

She served her country at a time when her role as a military wife and mother was not recognized or supported by the military. She never questioned what was asked of her, she just did it. As a young, newly married military wife, she was a silent witness to the crash of Abbot 27, to which her husband Richard was deployed on the crash response crew. She would then persevere through Richard’s two tours of Vietnam, keeping her home fires burning with four children. 

Effie raised her children with a tender loving hand, but she was also very candid and open about everything. They could talk to her about anything, the awkward, the bad, and the good. She never judged, she never scolded, she would just try to gently guide them in the right direction. She was always there for her children and grandchildren to guide, support, and encourage. Her door was always open to anyone in need, and she would always provide warmth and support. She was a master homemaker, and made it look easy. She was an excellent cook and has left everyone with wonderful memories of not only the large holiday meals and special treats, but also the simple, routine comfort food. Her superpower was peanut brittle. While she has left her recipe, it’s the art and skill that she had that can’t be replicated. 

When her children were older, she launched her own career, working at McDonalds. She worked for 25 years, working her way up to Store Manager, and was one of the managers that opened the second McDonalds location, managing both stores. Her children always referred to the golden arches as “M for Mom.” 

Effie was the most gracious and humble servant of the Lord. She was a living example of grace and faith and was a pillar of her church. She was one of the founding members of the Sonshine Quilters Club, providing beautiful hand-crafted quilts for new babies and family members of the church. She taught Sunday School and was a faithful servant in the church’s hospitality activities. Later in life when her husband Richard accepted the Lord, he followed her example and the two became an integral part of the church infrastructure. Effie was known as the Bread Lady and Richard was known as the Van Man. Their presence was a constant in the activities and outreach of the church.

She was a living example and role model in her devotion to God and country and she passed on her ethics and core values to her children, grandchildren, and extended family. Her calm and graceful presence touched and molded so many lives, far beyond what she was ever aware of. She was so much stronger than she ever gave herself credit for. She loved unconditionally. She also had a spicy sense of humor. When you least expected it, she would make a remark that would catch you off guard and turn your head. 

Pallbearers are her grandsons, Cody Holland, Dustin Holland, Jason Shaw, Cory Cochran, Tanner Cochran, and Forrest Gentry.

In recognition of Effie’s service as a Veteran Surviving spouse, there are honorary pallbearers made up of Surviving Spouses and Military spouses. Her procession will be escorted by the Patriot Guard Riders. 

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Grace Temple Ministries Benevolence Fund. 

Visitation will be Friday Nov 29th at Johnson’s Funeral Home from 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM. Service will be held Saturday, Nov 30th at 2:00 PM at Grace Temple. Interment will follow at Belvedere.