Scott Ward, 56, of San Angelo Texas, passed away on Wednesday, September 3rd, 2025. He was born on April 13th, 1969, in Odessa, Texas, and moved to San Angelo, Texas, in his early teenage years and San Angelo became home. He received a Bachelor of Science degree from Angelo State University in 1994. He began his career working for Shannon Medical Center as a Recreational Therapist and then later pursued a career within the chemical oil business. 

Scott married his college sweetheart, Michele Bryant, on September 9th, 1995. They were six days short of celebrating their 30th wedding anniversary but celebrated a life filled with so much laughter and love. They traveled and went on many adventures together. They have two daughters, Kate and Lauren Ward and both were the highlight of his life.

Scott was filled with so much laughter and literally lived life to its fullest. He had an adventurous spirit. He liked to hunt, he loved to fish, he truly enjoyed going to the beach, and his most favorite thing was attending all of the events that his daughters were in. He was truly a committed father and husband. Football was a big part of his life. He began playing from the third grade and continued through high school and was even on the ASU football team for a brief time. He was also a member of the Pi Kappa Alpha fraternity at ASU, not only in his college years but currently as an Alumni. He truly loved his family and friends! Nothing was more important than his family especially his two daughters. Scott was larger than life and he will truly be missed. 

He is preceded in death by his mother, LaDonna Schillinger, of San Angelo and and survived by his stepfather, Bob Schillinger, of Ballinger Texas. He is survived by his father, Norman Ward and step mother Debi Ward of Lubbock Texas. He is also survived by his loving wife, Michele Ward, and his daughters, Kate and Lauren all of San Angelo. Flowers are greatly appreciated. If you would like to donate anything in his name, please give to the charity of your choice. 

Heaven just got a little more fun and maybe a lot more loud! We have definitely gained an angel for life!

An open visitation for Scott will be held Tuesday, September 9, 2025 from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM at Johnson's Funeral Home, 435 W Beauregard Ave, San Angelo, Texas 76903. A funeral service will occur Wednesday, September 10, 2025 at 10:00 AM in Johnson's Funeral Home Chapel. The interment will follow at Johnson's Lawnhaven Memorial Gardens.

Edith Lorene Dunham, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and caretaker, passed away peacefully on Sunday, September 7, 2025, at the age of 98, leaving behind a remarkable legacy of love, service, and unwavering devotion to God, her family, and her community. She was often found reading her Bible, immersed in God's word. Her love for Jesus was evident in everything she did, and her life reflected her commitment to living out His teachings. Jesus was the guiding light of her life.

Public Viewing will be from 10:00 AM until 8:00 PM with the family receiving friends from 5:00 PM until 7:00 PM Wednesday, September 10, 2025, at Robert Massie Funeral Home. Funeral Services will be 2:00 PM Thursday, September 11, 2025, at Robert Massie Riverside Chapel with Brother George Cooper, retired Grace Temple Baptist Church Minister, and Pastor Justin Smith, pastor of The Vessel Church, officiating. Burial will follow at Fairmount Cemetery under the direction of Robert Massie Funeral Home.

Born in Krum, on August 15, 1927, to Wylie and Ollie Belle McKee, Edith was one of fifteen siblings and the third youngest in a large, hardworking family. From a young age, she learned the value of perseverance, completing her education through the seventh grade before dedicating herself to working on the family farm. There, she picked cotton and peanuts, often carrying heavy burlap sacks on her back under the hot Oklahoma sun.

At age 16, Edith began working as a carhop at Herman's Pig Stand in Seminole, Oklahoma, where she met the love of her life, Jimmie Dunham. They married three years later in 1947.

When her mother passed away, Edith was just 18 years old. She lovingly stepped into the role of caretaker for her two younger siblings-a reflection of her lifelong commitment to nurturing others.

Her greatest joy was in caring for children, and she found her calling in San Angelo, where she ran Dunham's Kiddie Korner, a daycare that became a home-away-from-home for countless children for over 20 years. Known for her warm, home-cooked meals, spotless nursery, and kind heart, Edith was loved by every child she cared for. She called them her babies and treated them all as family. Every parent who walked through her doors knew their child was cared for and loved deeply. Her daycare was more than just a place for children to learn and play-it was a sanctuary of love and care.

Edith was everyone's grandma. Even years after closing Kiddie Korner, "her babies" would often spot her around town, running up for a big hug and fond memories-and she remembered them all.

She had an extraordinary capacity to love deeply. Her heart was so big that it embraced everyone she met-her family, her friends, her children's friends, her grandkids' friends, and the countless children she cared for at the daycare. Her door was always open for anyone to stop by, get a hug, and enjoy a home-cooked meal. No one was a stranger to her. She was the best role model we could have asked for, showing us what it truly means to love unconditionally, to serve others selflessly, and to walk in faith with humility and joy.

After retiring from her daycare, Edith continued her work with children by leading the nursery at Grace Temple Baptist Church for 18 years. There, she cared for infants with the same love and gentleness that defined her entire life.

Jim and Edith lived quite an adventurous life. They traveled to Europe, Hawaii, and all over the United States. In 2007, they celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary with a memorable trip to Mount Rushmore and Yellowstone, one of their favorite adventures they did together. They owned a pilot car service and escorted wide loads across the country. Edith was always "copilot" reading road maps and pouring Jim's coffee.

She was a proud member of the V8 Club, the antique car club, and the square-dancing club.

Edith is survived by her five children, Linda Coates, Judy Hiebeler, Connie Brown and husband Danny, Bryan Chet Dunham, and Kayla Dunham; her nine grandchildren, Sherri Thompson, Jana Braden and husband Cody, Holley Moore, Matt Crockett and wife Renee, Travis Crockett, Wade Brown and wife Natalee, Rachel Ballard and husband Dillion, Cameron Ivory, and Jacob Dunham; she also leaves behind 13 great-grandchildren; and 3 great-great-grandchildren, all of whom were deeply blessed by her love and wisdom. Edith is preceded in death by her beloved husband, Jimmie Dunham; her grandson, Jimmy Loftin; and her great-granddaughter, Amber Loftin.

Edith's life was a testament to quiet strength, unshakable faith, and boundless compassion. Her legacy will live on in the hearts of all those she nurtured-whether as a wife, daughter, sister, mother, grandmother, caregiver, or friend.

Now, she is in the arms of Jesus-rejoicing with her sweetheart.

In lieu of flowers please make memorials to The Vessel Church, P.O. Box 761, San Angelo, Texas 76902.

Veronica Torres, age 46, of San Angelo, Texas, passed away on September 7, 2025. Born on March 19, 1979, in Eden, Texas, Veronica was a beloved daughter, sister, and friend. She will be remembered for her warm heart, strong spirit, and the love she shared with everyone around her.

Veronica is survived by her parents, Joe and Caroline Torres of San Angelo; her sister, Nicole Torres of San Angelo; her nephews, Michael and Matthew Torres; neice, Ali Tackett and her cherished dog, Bruce. She is also survived by her brother Andrew Torres and Macalee Mills of San Angelo, along with numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins who loved her dearly and will miss her greatly.

She was preceded in death by her maternal grandparents, Robert and Encarnacion “Chona” Hernandez; paternal grandparents, Joe and Guadalupe Torres; and her uncles, Raymond Hernandez and Fred Hernandez.

Veronica was a hardworking and dedicated individual who built a career in retail as both an associate and manager, making many lifelong friends along the way. She had a flair for fashion and was known as a true fashionista, always bringing her own style into everything she did. She enjoyed listening to music, watching TV, eating out with friends after long shifts, and planning Bruce’s next holiday outfit. Veronica took joy in dressing her dog for every occasion and spoiling him with french fries. She also found happiness in caring for her sister Nicole, ensuring they were always best dressed and had the most creative costumes. 

Her memory will live on in the hearts of her family and friends, who will forever cherish the love and joy she brought into their lives.

 Service Details 

• • Viewing: Wednesday, September 10, 2025, from 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM at Harper Funeral Home, 2606 Southland Blvd., San Angelo, TX 76904.
•  • Funeral Service: Thursday, September 11, 2025, at 1:00 PM at Eden Funeral Home, Eden, Texas.
•  • Burial: Graveside service to follow immediately after the funeral. 

Pallbearers: Matthew Torres Michael Torres Mitchell Hernandez Gabriel Hernandez Randy Hernandez JR Lopez Dominique Castillo

Frank Bryant Myers passed away surrounded by loved ones, at his San Angelo home, on Friday September 5, 2025 at the age of 78. The eldest of 2 children, Frank was born in Mount Vernon Ohio, on March 29 1947, to Floyd Devon Myers and Janet Louise Simpkins Myers.

As a young child Frank moved with his family to Phoenix AZ. He grew up there, attended Phoenix High School, then later made his way to San Angelo Texas and that became his permanent home. Frank married his best friend, Melinda, on October the 8th, 1994. From the time they began dating, whether at work, at home, or at play, the two were nearly always together. They loved each other deeply, and side by side, they built a beautiful life.

Through his life Frank wore many hats. In his early years, he made a living cowboying. For many years after that he worked as a meat cutter. He had his own landscape business, as well as a chimney sweep business . Then, along with his wife he worked at the family’s candle factory. He raised and sold show chickens. Later in life Frank took up baking, and worked selling bread, cakes, and cookies, along with fresh eggs, fruits, and vegetables that he and his wife grew on their small farm. To sum it up, Frank was a butcher, a baker and a candlestick maker!

Frank enjoyed being outdoors, hunting, fishing, gardening, and going on cruises. Frank was always ready for family game night playing train. He never cared if he won or lost, he just treasured the family time. Frank delighted in visiting with and getting to know people. He found happiness raising and training horses in his early years, and then his chickens as he got older. He was a good friend and a hard worker. His favorite scripture was John 3:16. He loved Jesus and he adored his family.

Frank was a faithful member of The Downtown Lions Club for many years. He loved going to The Texas Lions Camp and serving all of the children. He also attended The Walk to Emmaus in 2004 and gained a circle of friends that became more like family. Frank was a member of Celebration Church. You could find him sitting at the table by the front door, just waiting to visit with anyone that would stop by. He loved his church family. He loved the color purple! And he loved John 3:16; “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life."

Frank is survived by his wife Melinda Myers; his Children; Shalmarie Bello and husband James; Lindsay Bonner and husband Eddie; his bonus children, Nonie Fenter and husband Lance, and Rusty Darter; 12 grandchildren; 10 great grandchildren; 1 great great grandchild and his brother Floyd. He is proceeded in death by his parents Floyd and Janet.

Services will be held on Saturday September 13th, at 2:00 pm at Harper Funeral Home. A link for the live stream will be added for those unable to attend. There will be visitation at the same address on Friday September 12th from 6-8 pm. All are welcome to come and celebrate a life well lived.

We will always remember and appreciate the exceptional medical care provided by Dr. Cheuku and the amazing medical staff at Shannon Hospital when Frank was first diagnosed. In his final days, the Hospice Team demonstrated remarkable compassion and professionalism, ensuring that Frank was comfortable in his own home, surrounded by his family and his faithful dog, Charlotte.” His nurses Marlaina and Marina were such a blessing for all of us.

During the historic flood back in July, it was Pastor Weston and members of Celebration Church Youth Department that were first on the scene, then, Samaritan Purse. These 2 organizations were there to help in anyway possible and were such a blessing in such a difficult time. Mom and Papa Frank requested that in lieu of flowers, donations might be considered for; Samaritans Purse for the Texas Flash Flood Relief at; https://samaritanspurse.org/ or Celebration Church Youth Program at; https://giving.myamplify.io//app/giving/celebrationchurch.

Maira Cristina Castellanos, 75, went to be with the Lord peacefully surrounded by her loved ones on September 4, 2025, in San Angelo, Tx after a lengthy illness.

Maria Cristina “Myna” was born in Ciudad Acuna, Mexico to Juan and Benita Castellanos on January 7, 1950. She graduated from Ozona High School in 1969 and completed Business Commercial College in the DFW metroplex.

Cristina lived most of her life in Grand Prairie, Tx where she worked at Vought Aircraft for 39 years in office administration. During this time, she made many lifelong friends. She also worked seasonally for 20 years for her favorite baseball team, the Texas Rangers, and for 7 years her favorite football team, the Dallas Cowboys. Cristina enjoyed volunteering at the Grand Prairie school system teaching children how to read.

Cristina was a devoted member of Primera Iglesia Bautista in Arlington, for more than 45 years where she actively took part in various church activities.

Cristina loved traveling with her friends and will always be remembered for her witty humor and vibrant personality. Cristina was known for having a contagious smile that would light up any room. She loved coming home to be with family at special events and Christmas. She dearly loved all her nieces and nephews as her own and will be greatly missed by all.

Cristina is preceded in death by her parents, Juan and Benita Castellanos; her sisters, Consuelo Reyes and Alicia Perez; her brother, Juan Castellanos Jr.

Cristina is survived by her sisters, Maria Esmerado of San Angelo, Tx; Martha Landin of Ozona, Tx; and Armida Ybarra of San Angelo, Tx, and one brother, Martin Castellanos of Cleburne, Tx. She is also survived by many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews.

Pallbearers will be Felix Flores, Javier Perez, Feliciano Esmerado Jr., Mario Ybarra Jr., Tristian Ybarra, and Mario Ybarra III. Honorary pallbearers will be Cristian Ybarra and Andres Ybarra.

The family of Cristina wishes to extend our sincere thanks to Dr. Rabe, Dr. Wael Richeh, Shannon home and health team, Encompass Rehab hospital: Dr. Harvey, Dr. Lam Siu, and Gentiva Hospice. Also, we are grateful for Bailey Garcia and Destiny Casteneda as they have been administrating Cristina’s needs in the last few months.

The family extends a special thank you to her sister, Armida Ybarra, for her loving care and dedication to Cristina over the past several years.

There will be a visitation from 5pm – 7pm, Thursday, September 11, 2025, at Harper Funeral Home in San Angelo. There will also be a second opportunity for visitation from 2:00 P.M. – 5:00 P.M., at Covenant Life Church (Former Templo Bautista Jerusalem Church) in Ozona, Texas on Friday, September 12, 2025. The Prayer service will follow the visitation at 6:00 P.M., on Friday, September 12,2025 at Covenant Of Life Church. The Funeral service will be held at 10:00 am. Saturday, September 13, 2025, at Covenant Life Church in Ozona, Tx with Pastor Julian Falcon of Word of Life officiating. Arrangements are by Harper Funeral Home.

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

With profound sadness, we share the passing of Anthony Paul Speciale, a beloved father, grandfather, brother, and friend, who departed this life on Friday, August 22, 2025, at the age of 74. He passed peacefully in San Angelo, Texas, surrounded by the love and comfort of his family and friends.

Born on November 18, 1950, in San Angelo to Paul and Evelyn Speciale. He graduated from San Angelo Central High School in 1969. Anthony’s life journey took him to New York, Dallas, Golden Colorado, Coppell, and Austin. Although he ventured away for a time, he ended up back home in San Angelo.

Throughout his life, Anthony faced many challenges, each shaping his path and ultimately leading him to a profound relationship with the Lord. His faith became a guiding light, offering strength, hope, and peace through life’s ups and downs. No matter the circumstances, his love for the Lord remained steadfast and true. Even in his final moments, Anthony’s heart was lifted in praise, a reflection of the deep spiritual grace that carried him through. His unwavering devotion was a source of comfort to those around him and a testament to the enduring power of faith. His deepest wish was for everyone who knew him to feel the immeasurable love of our Heavenly Father and come to know Him as their Lord and Savior.

Anthony’s career was marked by dedication and kindness. He worked in various roles, including at the family business, Western Electric Motors & Supply, and as a freight delivery driver. His most enduring professional chapter was with Quest Diagnostics, where he served in Colorado, Dallas, and Austin for over two decades. Known for his warm demeanor and genuine care for others, Anthony made lasting impressions on everyone he met.

A man of quiet passions, Anthony found joy in nature and creativity. He loved watching birds, attending concerts, gardening, and exploring the serenity of mountains and forests. His camera was a constant companion, capturing the beauty he saw in the world. His nurturing spirit lives on in the mulberries, pecans, arborvitaes, and cypress trees he planted many of which began as tiny saplings and now stand tall.

Anthony is lovingly remembered by his son, Micah Speciale of Sherman, Texas, and daughter, Nicole Speciale of Denton, Texas; his cherished grandchildren, Briehan Speciale, Bailey Davidson, Britton Speciale, and Oreanna Speciale; and his siblings, Candi Canelli, Stacy Speciale, Tammy Speciale, Kenny Speciale, and Paul Lee Speciale. He was preceded in death by his parents and two grandchildren, Taria and Embrie Speciale.

During the last few years of his life, he lived with his sister, Tammy Speciale. She was just down the hallway, and she provided him with exceptional care and support especially when his health presented challenges. He appreciated Tammy’s care even when he didn’t follow her and the doctor’s instructions completely.

Anthony’s memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew him. His kindness, humor, and gentle spirit will be deeply missed and forever cherished.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the compassionate staff at Shannon Hospital and Hospice of San Angelo for their support and care in his final days.

Shirley Marie Colvin, born on November 24, 1948, was a radiant light in the lives of all who knew her. She passed away peacefully surrounded by family and friends, leaving behind a tapestry of love, laughter, and cherished memories. She was preceded in death by her loving mother, Edna Mae Collins; her devoted Husband, Jeff Colvin; and her brothers, David Harris and Lester Gayoso.

Shirley is survived by her son Bryan Gayoso and wife Lindsey, who blessed her life with grandchildren Shaelee, Wyatt and Allie; her daughter Marsha Ostrander and husband Wayne, who brought her joy through their children, Gregory and Pamela along with Pamelas husband Clayton Northrop, and her precious great-grandchildren, Tucker and Rhett; and her son Jeff Colvin Jr. and wife Becky and their wonderful children Colt Williams and wife Lindsey, with grandchildren Rylee and Alli, Dusty Williams and wife Kaylee and their children Sawyer, Jansen, Kambre and Lizzie, Breona Mcbride and grandchildren Jaxyn and Lexy Terrell, and Jordynn McBride. Along with Shirley’s siblings, Debby Ellis and family of Washington and Donnie Gayoso of San Angelo.

Shirley was an extraordinary woman whose spirit was as vibrant as her love for family, friends and music. Her passion for life was evident in everything she did, especially in her 30+ years as owner of Extensions Salon in San Angelo. There, she not only created beautiful manicures and pedicures but also formed lasting friendships that enriched her life. Her salon was a haven for laughter, support, and love-a reflection of her generous heart.

Shirley’s legacy will live on in the hearts of her family and friends, who will forever cherish her warmth, free spirit, kindness, and unwavering love. She will be deeply missed but never forgotten, as her light continues to shine brightly in the lives she touched.

The following is a handwritten note found in her notebooks from 1990.

Jeffrey is my world

Bryan is my sky

Marsha is my sun

Jeff Jr. is my moon

Pamela is my star

And Wayno will always have part of my love. - Marie

The family will receive friends for visitation on Tuesday, September 9, 2025 at Harper Funeral Home. The Funeral Service will be 10:00 A.M., Wednesday, September 10, 2025 at Harper Funeral Home. The burial will follow at Lawnhaven Memorial Gardens. 

*The family wishes to extend their heartfelt gratitude to St. Gabriel’s Hospice and Ballinger Home Health for their compassionate care during this difficult time. Their support allowed Shirley to feel surrounded by love and family in her final days.

Special thanks to her daughter in-law Becky Colvin for opening her arms and home to keep Shirley comfortable and able to share memories with friends and family during her last weeks.

Family and friends may share condolences and sign the online register book at

www.harper-funeralhome.com.

Inocente "Chente" "Gerardo" Gonzalez, 65, of San Angelo passed away on Saturday, September 6, 2025.

Services will be on Monday, September 8, 2025 at St. Ambrose Catholic Church. Viewing will be from 9:00 AM - 10:30 AM; rosary will be said at 10:30 AM by Deacon Dan Shannahan; and Mass will be at 11:00 AM with Rev. Steven Hicks, officiating. Burial will follow in St. Ambrose Catholic Cemetery under the direction of Robert Massie Funeral Home.

Mr. Gonzalez was born on March 18, 1960 in El Remolino, Coahuila, Mexico to Inocente and Rafaela Gonzalez, Sr. At the age of 14, Inocente left Mexico searching for a better life in America. He first made it to the Houston and then the Port Lavaca area where he was a cowboy on a large ranch with his uncle Hector Sanchez. Chente then moved to the Texas hill country where he harvested onions. Later, he moved to the Ballinger area to work for on Lee Pfluger's ranch and then moved on to work as the ranch foreman on Joe Mertz' at La Cienega Ranch for 12 years. He later became a cotton sample collector for Meers Cotton Services for 16 years.

Chente was a man's man who loved everything outdoors; hunting, trapping, breaking horses, and being around all animals. All animals that came into contact with him felt his compassion and care.

Chente is preceded in death by his parents; and a brother, Arturo Gonzalez.

He is survived by his spouse and companion for over 40 years, Anita Gonzalez; three children, Jerald Gonzalez and Jaqueline Rodriguez, Jesse Gonzalez; and Brittany Miramontes and husband Alonzo all of San Angelo; five siblings, Hilario Gonzalez and wife Maria of San Angelo, Humberto Gonzalez and wife Yadira of El Remolino, Norma Castillo and husband Luis of Del Rio, Yolanda Castaneda and Rogelio of Acuña, and Alicia Rodriguez and husband Jose of San Carlos; nine grandchildren, Daniel Rodriguez, Aveya Miramontes, Azeden Miramontes, Jessa Lee Gonzalez, Jesse Gonzalez II, Azaley Miramontes, Avery Miramontes, Jerald Gonzalez II, Alec Miramontes.

Jeffrey Keith Seay, 66, passed away 9:38 AM, Saturday, September 6, 2025, at Shannon Hospital in San Angelo after a short but heroic battle with Lung Cancer.

Memorial services will be at 2:00 PM Wednesday, September 10, 2025, at Robert Massie Riverside Chapel with Jesse Webb, officiating. Arrangements are under the direction of Robert Massie Funeral Home.

Jeff was born in Cleburne, August 31, 1959 to Monroe and Marcell Seay. He graduated high school in 1977 and married his high school sweetheart, Julie Auldridge on December 2, 1977. They remained in Cleburne until 1984 when they made Canyon home. Jeff soon started a successful mowing service in Amarillo and in 1992, sold the company, and moved to San Angelo. He partnered in a remodeling/construction company, but followed Julie to Brownwood for her career in 1994. He continued remodeling in San Angelo and Brownwood for the next 5 years before moving back to San Angelo in 1999, the place they called home ever since.

He leaves the memories of his love to his wife, Julie Seay; his daughters, Jessica and her husband Derek Orona of Lithia, Florida, and Jennifer and her husband Jared Boyd of San Angelo; his brother, Marvin Seay and wife Michelle of San Angelo; and his sister, Lisa Seay of Cleburne; his many cousins, nieces and nephews; but his greatest joy were his seven grandchildren, Joslyn Steel, Drew Orona, Josh Orona, Zach Orona, Makayla Orona, Makenna Orona and Jordan Boyd. He was preceded in death by his parents.

Jeann Bates peacefully entered into the presence of her Lord and Savior on the evening of September 3, 2025, after a short bout of pneumonia.

In her 94 years on this Earth, she served as a beautiful example of faith, love, determination, and resilience.

Jeann was born, Billie Jeann Schneider, in Little Rock, Arkansas in 1930, but grew up on a ranch in Menard, Texas. She spent her childhood playing outside, working on the ranch, and reading. Her love of books, language, and learning shaped her into a lifelong learner and educator.

Jeann fell in love and married Vernon Bates in 1949. Together, they ran Bates Grocery Store and raised their three beloved children, Gary Layn, Linda Gail, and Donna Ann.

Once her children were school-aged, Jeann pursued a degree in education, graduated with honors, and taught English, Speech, and Spanish at Menard High School for many years. She loved teaching and loved her students. It’s rumored that she gave her own children lower scores than they earned because she never wanted to appear to play favorites among her students. Even after she left the classroom, she found ways to enrich the lives of others by teaching, and often joked that “chalkdust ran in her veins”.

In 1977, Jeann and Vernon sold the grocery store and left their empty nest in Menard to move to San Angelo. The couple bought a home on Lake Nasworthy that quickly became the family hub, and turned out to be the perfect setting for countless cousin sleepovers with their 7 grandchildren. Jeann delighted in waking up to a house full of palettes on the floor and making “Grandmother toast” while the kids prepared for a day on the lake.

Upon moving to San Angelo, Jeann, who always loved a challenge, decided to get her real estate license and begin a second career. She sold houses for several agencies before finally opening her own real estate office: Jeann Bates/Lafreta White Realtors. She found such joy in helping people buy and sell homes, and of course, teaching them about all the steps in the process.

After over 50 years of marriage, Vernon passed away in 2000, so Jeann began a new chapter in a new home. But, through her grief, she continued to sell real estate, teach Sunday school, square dance, and live life to the fullest.

Jeann retired in 2011 to spend more time with her Ladies’ Spanish group, her church, and her family. Retirement afforded her the time and opportunity to travel and visit her many children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, whom she adored.

In 2018, she moved once again to the assisted living community at Lyndale. She made friends with everyone, led Bible studies, and played a lot of Joker. She truly found joy in everything she did, simply because God had given her the opportunity to do it.

Of all that Jeann loved, her greatest love was her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. She led countless people to the Lord with her testimony, faith, and joyful spirit. She taught Sunday School for many years and remained active in the church until her dying day. Her faith was unshakable, and her Bible study and prayer habits were unwavering. She was a Godly woman who embodied the fruits of the spirit and was a blessing to everyone around her. We can take comfort in knowing that she has been renewed and is singing and dancing with the angels in heaven.

She is survived by her 3 children and their spouses, Gary and Sharon Bates, Linda and Tom Gossett, and Donna and Jack Wiggins; her 7 grandchildren and their spouses, Kris Bates, Krista and Charles Bouvier, Shanna Payne, Wade and Tiffany Duncan, Jenny and Marcus Smith, Lauren and Matt Blanton, and Sandy and Joe Bauman; her 14 great-grandchildren; and innumerable extended family and beloved friends.

Services will be held on Saturday, September 13, at 10:00 am at the Heights Baptist Church at 4512 Sherwood Way, and the burial will follow at Lawnhaven Memorial Gardens. Any non-San Angelo residents who wish to attend the luncheon should contact Linda Gossett at 325-277-4399.

Donations can be made in memoriam to The Heights Baptist Church or to a favorite charitable organization.

To be continued…