It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Linda Sharon Baird, who left this world on July 21, 2025, at the age of 84, due to complications from Alzheimer’s disease. Born on July 31, 1940, in Sterling City, Texas, Linda was a beacon of love and laughter to all who knew her.

Linda was the beloved daughter of Mildred Askey and Paul Knieff. She was blessed with three beautiful sisters, Toni Bowyer and husband Denis, and Vickie Cope and husband Bobby who have many stories to share about their childhood to bring them comfort during this time. She was preceded in death by her dear parents and her beloved husband, Alton Baird and her cherished siblings, sister Paula Franklin and brother Larry Wayne Knieff, and nephew Mark Franklin. Linda's spirit now joins them in eternal peace.

On March 2, 1958, Linda married Alton, and together they celebrated a beautiful journey of 61 years. Throughout her life, she was not only a dedicated wife and mother but also a proud member of the community. Linda was a graduate of Lake View High School, where she was known for her radiant smile and kind heart, serving as a cheerleader and being honored as "Most Beautiful."

Professionally, Linda served as a telephone operator for GTE, Secretary of the Dietary for Shannon Hospital, but her passion and favorite position was as Payroll Supervisor for Levi Strauss and Company, where her meticulous nature and strong work ethic shone brightly. She shared a friendship with Doris Glasscock and Marilyn McMillan which has endured. Beyond her career, Linda was deeply involved in her community and was an active member of the Catholic Church. Her faith was a guiding light in her life and a source of comfort during challenging times.

Linda had a passion for music, which filled her home with joy and laughter. She had a unique ability to bring people together with her infectious sense of humor, often leaving an indelible mark on those fortunate enough to share in her company.

Linda is survived by her loving children, Debra Baird Sosolik and her husband Bobby, Alton Todd Baird, and Robert Paul Baird. She was the proud grandmother of Corey Speck and his wife Stacye, Morganne Speck, Jordan Baird, Odessa Baird and his wife Carrie, Cheyenne Baird, Reese Baird, Grayson Baird, Logan Speck, Victoria Speck, Briley Speck, Christabella Gonzalez, Kinlee Baird, Tristan Martinez, Eleanor Baird, Evelyn Tietze, and Kelly Custer. Two very special nieces Lindy Attinello and husband John and Retha Harris and husband Randy. Each of them carries a piece of her spirit within them, and her legacy will live on through their loving memories.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to the Alzheimer’s Association, an organization that was close to Linda’s heart. The family would also like to express their gratitude to Jim Raines, LVN, at the Springs for the compassionate care he gave our mother during her stay there. To the staff of the 6th floor of Shannon Hospital for their emotional support and care during mother’s final days, and finally to Dr. Vicki Forlano, a physician like no other. Your exemplary care of our mother during these final years made it easier for us to understand her journey.

Linda Sharon Baird will be profoundly missed, but her memory will forever remain in the hearts of those she touched. May she rest in eternal peace, surrounded by the love of her family and the sweet melodies of music she so cherished.

Visitation will be at 4:00 p.m., Wednesday July 23, 2025 at Harper Funeral Home, 2606 Southland Blvd. The Rosary and vigil service will follow visitation at 6:00 p.m. in the chapel.

A funeral mass to celebrate Linda’s remarkable life will be held at St. Thomas Catholic Church, 404 W 7th St, in Miles, Texas on July 24, 2025, at 10:00 am. Burial will immediately follow in the Miles Cemetery. Friends and family are invited to join in commemorating her beautiful journey and the joy she brought to our lives.

“Not all who wander are lost”

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

Lydia Rodriguez Cuellar, 69, of San Angelo, went to be with the Lord on Sunday, July 20, 2025.

Lydia was born on September 27, 1955, in Brownfield, Texas, to Gloria De La Rosa Arellano. She grew up in Melvin, Texas, and after high school, worked numerous jobs. She spent many years with Marriott Industries as a trainer in the housekeeping division, traveling across the U.S. In 2010, she relocated to San Angelo with her family and began working at Community Hospital.

Lydia met and later married the love of her life, Ron Cuellar, on December 17, 1982. Together, they shared 45 beautiful years and raised two sons.

Lydia was the kind of woman who always put others before herself. She was a hardworking mom who gave selflessly until the very end. Her love for her grandchildren and her beloved pets was unmatched, and she found joy in cheering on her favorite football and basketball teams. During games she would always be heard shouting “Go Spurs!” and “Cowboys make it happen already!”

She was preceded in death by her mother, Gloria Arellano, and her grandparents. She is survived by her loving husband, Ron Cuellar of San Angelo; her sons, Armando Torres of San Angelo, TX, and Christopher Torres of Perry, OK; her cherished grandchildren, Marcus Torres, Jada Torres, Adrian Torres, and Justin Torres; and two great-grandchildren. She is also survived by her father, Chano Marciano Arellano of Brownwood, TX; brothers, Alex Arellano and Vincent Arellano, both of Brownwood, TX; sisters, Janie Reyes of Sabinal, TX, Norma Modgling of Brownwood, TX, and Rosa Castaneda of Abilene, TX; along with numerous nieces, nephews, extended family members, and close friends who loved her dearly.

The family will receive friends for visitation from 5:00 P.M. to 7:00 P.M. on Thursday, July 24, 2025, at Harper Funeral Home. A graveside service will be held at 2:00 P.M. on Friday, July 25, 2025, at Eastlawn Memorial Park in Early, TX.

In lieu of flowers, Lydia asked that donations be made to Concho Valley Paws or an animal shelter of your choice.

Lydia’s warmth, strength, and fierce love for her family will never be forgotten. She will be missed more than words can express.

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

It is with both deep sorrow and immense gratitude for a life beautifully lived that we announce the passing of Barbara Byrd Burrage. Barbara was born August 29, 19 a woman of great faith, compassion, and unwavering strength. 

Barbara was a true pioneer. At a time when society expected women to remain confined to the home, she followed her calling to make a difference in the world. With fierce determination and a courageous heart, she earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing, proving that passion and purpose could not-and would not-be silenced. Her career as a charge nurse at both St. Johns and Shannon Hospital was marked by quiet heroism, steady hands, and a heart that poured love into every patient she served. She was more than a nurse; she was a comforter, a caregiver, and often, a guiding light during life's most vulnerable moments.

Barbara's compassion did not end at the hospital doors. Her soul was deeply routed in faith, and her journey with the Methodist church was one of profound dedication. A woman with a calling beyond the ordinary, Barbara became an ordained pastor, committing her life to spiritual service with warmth, wisdom, and a love that reflected the very heart of God. From the very beginning, Barbara carried a song in her heart. Music was her first love-an early passion that blossomed through voice and piano lessons. Her beautiful voice lifted the spirits of those around her, whether in the sanctuary of her church, the warmth of her home, or the quiet moments of reflection. She didn't just sing; she offered joy and comfort through every note. 

Barbara's will was strong, her convictions steady. When she set her mind to something, nothing could stand in her way. She lived with integrity, with passion, and with a sense of purpose that inspired all who knew her.

Those of us who were lucky enough to be loved by Barbara carry her spirit within us-her determination, her gentleness, her laughter, her music, her faith. Though our hearts are heavy, we celebrate the remarkable life she lived and the countless lives she touched. She was a nurse, a pastor, a musician, a trailblazer, and above all, a woman of extraordinary love.

Barbara is survived by her two children, Tim Burrage and wife Christy, Lori Griffin and husband David, Daughter in law Vicki Burrage, and Close family friend Randy Russell. Grandchildren Melissa Jones and husband Hunter, Brandon Burrage and wife Elyce, Kaitlyn McClarren and Tyler, Garrett Griffin and wife Amber, Haley Nixon and husband Tanner, Brendi Willis and husband Carlos, and Rayna Adkins. Great Grandchildren Landrie Jones, Oliver Burrage, Tinley Burrage, Augustus Griffin, Max Griffin, and Truett Nixon.She was preceded in death by her parents Curtis and Grace Byrd, and her son Richard Dee Burrage Jr.

You were deeply cherished. You will be deeply missed.

An open viewing will be at Harper Funeral Home on Wednesday, July 23, 2025 from 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM. A graveside service will be held on Thursday, July 24, 2025 at Mullins Cemetery in Miles, TX.

Our wonderful husband, father, grandfather, uncle and friend, Hiram Louis (H. L.) Brooks joined family and friends in Heaven on July 18, 2025, after a valiant fight against cancer and a stroke.

H. L. was born on August 28, 1950 in San Angelo, Texas to Walter E. Brooks II and Delpha Lee Brooks. He was raised in the community of Sherwood, attending school in Mertzon from the first grade through the 12th grade. The Monday following graduation in May 1968 he began working at the Brooks Gas Plant west of Mertzon. He continued his career at gas processing plants in Woodard, Oklahoma, Uvalde and McAllen, Texas and Carlsbad, New Mexico, finally retiring from Conoco, Inc. in June 2003.

In November 2000 H.L. ran into his 1968 Senior Prom date, Gina Lou Hickman. After a wonderful and exciting courtship, they eloped to Las Vegas, Nevada and were married on September 2, 2003. They made their home in Midland, Texas until permanently moving to their farm outside of Blackwell, Texas in January 2016. In May 2024 H.L. and Gina gave up the farm life and moved to San Angelo, Texas where they have enjoyed their lives with old friends and family, making new friends along the way. H. L. enjoyed barbecuing, fishing, hunting and throwing a few cold beers down with family and friends. His beautiful smile and laughter will remain with us forever.

H. L. is predeceased by his parents, his sister and brother-in-law Billie Lee and Bobby Masters and his brother Walter E. (Tooter) Brooks III. He is survived by his wife, Gina Lou Brooks, his son Hiram Thomas Brooks and wife Marissa, son Cooper Louis Brooks, and five grandchildren. He is also survived by his in-laws David Hickman and wife, Necie, and Johnny Hickman, and many wonderful nephews and nieces who learned many life’s lessons from Uncle H. L.

The family wants to thank all the beautiful family and friends who have been here for us with love and prayers, Meadow Creek Nursing and Rehabilitation and Concho Heart Hospice. A special hug to the Mertzon High School Class of 1968 who have stayed close throughout the years and have always been there for one another.

A visitation will be held at Harper Funeral Home on Tuesday July 22, 2025 from 5 – 7:00 PM. Graveside services will be held at The Sherwood Cemetery on Wednesday July 23, 2025 at 10:00 AM.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Shannon Oncology Angel Fund, c/o Shannon Medical Center, P. O. Box 1879, San Angelo, Texas 76902, or a charity of your choice.

Teddi Clara Jones Bass, a beloved sister, aunt, friend, and devoted servant of Christ, passed away peacefully on July 16, 2025, at the age of 70 in San Angelo, Texas. Born on May 7, 1955, in Temple, Texas, Teddi brought light and love into the lives of everyone she met.

Teddi was preceded in death by her cherished parents, Theodore (Ted) Jones Sr. and Margaret (Anne) Boyer Jones, and her loving husband, Jerry Bass. She is survived by her siblings: Jimmi Green, Cydni Henson and husband Roger, Dorri Jones, Theodore Jones Jr. and wife Cindy, and Richard Jones, as well as a host of nieces and nephews who absolutely adored her.

A proud graduate of Central High School, Class of 1973, Teddi dedicated over 30 years of her life working for GTE/Verizon, where she was deeply respected by her coworkers. After retiring, she poured her heart into children’s ministry at Johnson Street Church of Christ, where she was a faithful member and servant.

Teddi’s life was centered around her faith in Jesus and her love for others—especially children. She had a God-given gift for nurturing young hearts and was a joyful presence at Vacation Bible School and during “Kids Time” at church. Her love for music was a lifelong thread—from singing in choirs throughout junior high, high school, and at A S U, to simply enjoying the beauty of listening to music in her everyday life. Music brought her joy and comfort, and she shared that joy generously with those around her.

Teddi exemplified kindness, dedication, and integrity in all she did. She loved traveling with her family, spreading joy wherever she went with her adventurous spirit and warm smile.

Teddi’s legacy is one of unwavering love, faithful service, and a heart full of music and grace. She will be dearly missed by her family, church family, friends, former coworkers, and the countless children whose lives she touched.

A celebration of Teddi’s life will be held on Sunday, July 27th, at 4:00 p.m. at Johnson Street Church of Christ in San Angelo, Texas. All who knew and loved her are welcome to attend.

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.