Gregory Ernest Ethington, 65, of San Angelo, Texas passed away on July 12, 2024. He was born on May 2, 1959 in Clinton Oklahoma to Ernest & Sue Ethington. He attended Lakeview High School and graduated in 1978. 

Greg married Shirley Jones in 1978 and together they had two children, Ashley and Austin. Greg later married Becky Hallmark in 1991 and gained three more children, Leevi, Shane and Sheyanne. 

Greg is preceded in death by his father, Ernest Ethington, beloved grandmother, Agnes (Momy) and grandfather, Berry Williams, grandparents, Ben & Kathleen Ethington; and mother-in-law, Lavell Hallmark. 

Survivors include his wife, Becky Ethington; mother, Sue Ethington; brother, Drew Ethington (Terri); his children, Ashley Nelson, Austin Ethington, LeeVi Hallmark (Ashley), Shane Mikeska and Sheyanne Branham (Britt). Grandchildren, Haylee Nelson, Augden, Slayton & Attli Hallmark and Kooper Mikeska. Father-in-law, Jerry Hallmark; Nieces, Hilary McDonald (Jeremy) and Alyx Jones (Ross); great niece, Aubrye Conoly and great nephews Jenson & Jenkins Jones. Gregory is also survived by many uncles, aunts, cousins and a special friend, Tina Perkins. 

A memorial service will be held at Southland Baptist Church at a later date.

Bruce Wayne McKowen passed away unexpectedly on July 2nd, 2024, in San Angelo, Texas at the age of 66. Born on November 29th, 1957 in Sacramento, California, Bruce was the beloved son of Maurice McKowen and Amelia Pospisil.

Bruce’s childhood was filled with adventure and learning, growing up with his siblings Theresa, Karyne and Patrick. Spending time with family and friends around Northern California, he developed strong bonds with many people including Sheila Parisena. He attended a variety of schools in the Sacramento area including sitting in on some classes at Sacramento City College and UC Berkeley where he indulged his love of chemistry and medicine.

Bruce’s dedication to his country was evident through his 20 years of service as a Medical Laboratory Craftsman in the United States Air Force where he achieved the rank of Staff Sergeant earning two Air Force Achievement medals and an Air Force Commendation medal.

On May 30th, 1992, Bruce married Cindy Renay Rowland, sharing over three decades of love and partnership. Together they raised two sons, Christopher and Alexander and were blessed with two grandchildren, Anastasia (Neysa) and Rebecca (Becky).

A man of many talents and interests, Bruce was involved in numerous organizations including the San Angelo Amateur Astronomy Association, West Texas Space Vaqueres, San Angelo Friends of the Library and the East Concho Volunteer Fire Department. He had also supported the Boy Scouts of America through Troops 36 and 321, McDonald Observatory as a volunteer, the local radio club and the Clay Bird Association. In addition, Bruce was continuously learning and kept busy with interests in computers, photography, military and aircraft history, archeology, gaming, electronics, and 3D printing. In his spare time, “Papa’s Workshop” repaired numerous toys and gadgets for his grandchildren, friends and family.

Bruce’s life was filled with extraordinary experiences. He attended Woodstock and saw Jimi Hendrix perform the Star-Spangled Banner, dined with Jacques Cousteau and was a childhood friend of Ronald Reagan (Ronnie) Jr. He met “Pappy” Boyington, had Pope John Paul II bless California during Easter Service at the Vatican, and interacted with renowned astronomers Clyde Tombaugh and David Levy during the years he attended the Texas Star Party.

Bruce is survived by his devoted wife, Cindy Renay McKowen; his son Christopher Phoenix McKowen with granddaughters Anastasia Renae McKowen and Rebecca Kayleen McKowen; his son Alexander McKowen with wife Jessika Lynn McKowen; his mother Amelia (Amy) McKowen; his siblings Theresa Tarbox with Rick Tarbox, Karyne Kindred with James Kindred and Patrick McKowen as well as numerous nieces and nephews; and his dear friends Mike & Betty-Jo Switalski, Jess Buck, Kevin Mace, Howard (Robby) & Ginni Roberts, Joe & Lana Lynch, Royce Key and many others. Bruce was predeceased by his father Maurice McKowen.

A Come and Go Celebration of Life will be held on Monday, July 22nd, 2024 from 3:00pm to 6:00pm at Harper Funeral Home in San Angelo, Texas. Bruce will be laid to rest at Arlington National Cemetery in Arlington, Virginia at a later date.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to everyone who has offered prayers, condolences and support during this difficult time.

Family and friends are invited to bring photos to his Celebration on the 22nd to be included on a photo board. Online condolences can be shared at www.harper-funeralhome.com.

Berta Reyna Garcia Fernandez, age 98, of San Angelo, was called to her heavenly home peacefully on Tuesday, July 10, 2024. 

Public viewing will be from 10:00 AM until 8:00 PM Thursday, July 11, 2024, with the Rosary being prayed at 6:00 PM at Robert Massie Riverside Chapel with her son Deacon Abel Fernandez, officiating. Mass will be at 10:00 AM Friday, July 12, 2024, at St. Joseph Catholic Church with Father Benito Rojas, officiating. Burial will follow at Calvary Catholic Cemetery under the direction of Robert Massie Funeral Home.

She was born January 6, 1926 in Del Rio to Mauro and Josefa Garcia. Berta grew up in Del Rio, and moved to San Angelo later in life. Berta married Avel Fernandez and raised four children.

Berta was preceded in death by her parents, Mauro and Josefa Garcia; husband, Avel Fernandez; son, Ernest Fernandez; brothers, Samuel Garcia, Mauro Garcia, Efrain Garcia; and a sister, Eliodora Garcia.

Those left to cherish her memory are children, Deacon Abel Fernandez and wife Mary, Oneida Padilla, Odelia Hirt and husband Mark; a sister, Oralia Mendoza and husband Francisco; and numerous grandchildren and great grandchildren. 

A special and heartfelt thank you to all the staff at Interim HealthCare Hospice of San Angelo for the special care shown to Berta.

Serving as her pallbearers are her grandsons, Steve Luna, Abel Fernandez, Chris Fernandez, Jeff Padilla, Travis Hirt, and Keelen Padilla.

On July 9, 2024, not only did we lose a loved one, but we lost a friend to all. Erin Kay Porter McLaurin was in an ongoing battle with cancer for six years. She was born on June 23, 1981, in San Angelo, TX to Alvin Dale Porter and Vicky Lynn Porter. Erin graduated from Central High School in 1999 and married her husband, Christopher McLaurin, in 2003. Together they had 3 children and 1 angel child: Kyrus, Logan, Taylor & Kylee.

Erin was an astonishing woman who enjoyed playing fast pitch softball for the Central Lady Cats and being at the lake with her friends and family with the windows down and the radio up. A few interesting facts about Erin is her favorite color is pink and her favorite flower was a Sunflower. If you have ever made it over to Erin’s house you would know she had a love for crosses, sugar skulls and her furry best friend, Fat Boy.

Erin Kay Porter McLaurin is survived by her husband Christopher McLaurin, children: Kyrus McLaurin, Logan McLaurin, and Taylor McLaurin, her mother, Vicky Porter, brother Micheal wife Pamela Porter, along with numerous aunts, uncles and cousins. She also had a few very close friends that she considered family.

She is preceded in death by her dad, Alvin Porter, Daughter, Kylee McLaurin, grandparents, Nelson & Frances Alexander, Delton & Dixie Porter.

We would also like to give a special thanks to Bailey, Nicole, and Sarah and all the nurses and staff at Interim Hospice, as well as a special thank you to close friends that where there for her until the end.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, July 20, 2024, at Harper Funeral Home at 10:30 AM.

Janice Gail (Phillips) Watson, formerly of Wichita Falls, Texas, passed away July 3, 2024, at the age of 83 years old in San Angelo, Texas, with her beloved husband and daughters by her side.

Janice was born to Herbert Lee and Neva (Moon) Phillips on October 15, 1940, in Centralia, Illinois. Life is easier when you have a companion, and her sister, best friend and partner in crime, Lana Lee (Phillips) Lewis arrived soon after. Together they tackled life’s challenges that led them to become the head strong, independent and successful women they were. Their childhood wasn’t limited to St. Louis, they also grew up in Wichita Falls.

The spirit of her life is felt in her childhood stories of picking berries and riding Dixie, her favorite horse, during summers spent with Lana and their cousins at the Eisenberg Farm in Taylor, Missouri. Her eyes would sparkle each time she spoke of baseball games with her Daddy and sister, cheering on the Brooklyn Dodgers and her hero, Jackie Robinson. One of her favorite teenage memories from a summer in Wichita Falls was when her friend Gayle and sister Lana talked her into seeing an up-and-coming singer that was playing on the back of a flatbed truck. Janice asked who? The year was 1955 and that young man was Elvis Presley. She and Lana became fans forever. These are just a few of the high-lights of her adventure filled life.

It was in St. Louis, Missouri that Janice met the love of her life, Eddie L. Watson and after a whirlwind courtship they were married July 23, 1958. In 1959, Daughter #1, Vicki C. (Watson) Keck was born in St. Louis, Missouri. Ten years later, Daughter #2, Kheva Renee’ (Watson) Flowers was born in Wichita Falls, Texas.

Like life does, things change and settles down with marriage, parenting, working and developing other interests. She enjoyed studying and documenting her family history. She loved the details of her past and seeing the connections to her present. She had many jobs in her life but found her career later in life. Janice worked for Mike and Diane Shallenberger for nearly 30 years. As executive property manager for Truity Capital, she handled dozens of accounts and an office full of personnel. Mike described her as the most professional and loyal person that he ever had the pleasure of working with. Janice was a human dynamo. She was driven and hard working. She became a part of their family and they loved her dearly as she did them.

Janice was a devoted wife and mother who loved her family fiercely. Her true joy came with the births of her five grandchildren and that joy expanded with the births of her great grandchildren.

She is survived by her husband of 66 years, Eddie L. Watson, of San Angelo, Texas; her daughters, Vicki Keck of San Angelo, Texas and Kheva Flowers of Austin, Texas. She is survived by her grandchildren Mark Keck, Jr. and wife, Tera, of Boston, Massachusetts; Cassie Garrison and husband, Landon, of San Angelo, Texas; Kinsey Keck, of New York, New York; Tyler Travis of Seguin, Texas and Brady Flowers and wife, Haley, of Holliday, Texas. She is also survived by her great-granchildren, Calin, Drew and Maverick Garrison, Lilah Keck, Tanner and Slone Travis and Jolee and Allie Flowers.

Janice was one of a kind. We will miss her forever. In lieu of flowers, please make donations in her honor to Hospice of San Angelo, 1933 University Avenue, San Angelo, Texas. Her family would like to express their gratitude for the wonderful and compassionate care Janice received.

The family will have a private memorial service to honor Janice's life at a later date.

Romeo Jerry Perotti passed away quietly on July 4, 2024, with family by his side. He was born in San Angelo, Texas July 20, 1938, to Romeo and Mary Perotti of San Angelo. Romeo loved to bowl and had considered going Pro in his early twenties. He lived a quiet life after his wife Shirley (Sam) of nearly 30 years passed away in 2005. He loved to play Texas Hold’ em Poker and would often go to Windstar to play. He is survived by his daughter Debbie Alvarez and husband Jesse of Fort Worth, son Kevin Perotti his wife Maria also of Fort Worth, and grandchildren David Alvarez and wife Jennifer, of San Antonio, Dr. Valerie Alvarez of Fort Worth and Anthony Perotti of South Dakota. He has three great grandchildren Isabel, Elena and Bennett. There will be no Memorial Service or interment. 

The family wishes to express sincere thanks and gratitude to Hospice of San Angelo for their compassionate care during his passing. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Concho Valley Regional Food Bank.

Richard Rodriguez Fernandez, 64, passed away on July 3, 2024, with his family by his side.

Richard was born on August 26, 1959 in San Angelo, TX to Juan and Anita Fernandez. He grew up in San Angelo and graduated from Central High School in 1977. Richard then attended Angelo State University where he earned his Bachelor's degree in Government.

Richard began his career with the Texas Department of Public Safety where he served as a State Trooper for 26 years before retiring as a Lieutenant in Narcotics. 

During this time, Richard married Elaine Contreras where he raised one step-daughter, Laurie Estrada.

Richard was a member of the Concho Valley Law Enforcement Lions Club for several years. In his spare time, Richard enjoyed being outside where he could fish, walk, and spend time with his grandsons.

There will be a viewing on Tuesday, July 9th from 6:00 - 8:00pm at Johnson's Funeral Home. A graveside service will be held on Wednesday, July 10th at 10:00am at Calvary Cemetery, under the direction of Johnson's Funeral Home.

Richard is preceded in death by his parents.

Richard is survived by his wife, Elaine; Laurie Carpenter (step-daughter) and her husband, Chris; Fred Fernandez (brother); Mary Soto (sister); John Fernandez (brother); Eva Hollingsworth (sister) and her husband, Ron; Randy and Zachary Carpenter (grandsons); Dustin Hollingsworth (nephew); Freddie Fernandez (nephew); Gilbert Soto (nephew); Corina Galvan (niece); and many cousins, friends, and associates!

The family would like to thank those that have been a comfort and support by offering their sympathy, prayers, and delicious meals.

Eida Salinas Diaz, a devoted mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend, passed away peacefully, surrounded by her children, on July 3, 2024, at the age of 86. Her kind heart, infectious sense of humor, and unwavering dedication to her family and passions will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

Born on November 2, 1937, in Progreso Coahuila, Mexico, Eida was the loving daughter of Guillermo Salinas Casares and Zapopan Riojas Zalazar, and the cherished sibling to eight others. She is survived by her children: Rafaela, Esteban and his wife, Linda, Esmerejildo, Jaime and his wife, Yanet; Her grandchildren: Christina and her husband, Ricardo, Steven and his wife, Paula, Daniela, Miguel, James, Alexandra, Brookelynn; Her great-grandchildren: Esteban, Pablo; Her siblings: Heriberto and his wife, Isabela, Eduardo, Eliezer and his wife, Gloria, Rosa, Elsa and her husband, Guillermo. She is preceded in death by her parents, her siblings, Teresa and her husband, Paz, Edelmira, Manuel and his wife, Teresa; her grandchildren: John William Tinney, and Elizabeth Marie Tinney; her sister-in-law, Rosalinda and her brother-in-law, Filiberto.

Eida found joy in simple pleasures. She had a passion for painting, knitting, crocheting, gardening, sewing, and walking. Each activity was not just a hobby but a reflection of her creative soul and deep connection to nature. Sewing brought her joy in crafting practical yet beautiful dresses. She found joy in capturing both serene landscapes and people through her paintings. Her hobbies reflected her deep appreciation for life's simple yet profound pleasures.

Eidas’s greatest pride and joy were her four children— Rafaela, Esteban, Esmerejildo, and Jaime, instilling in her children the values of kindness, resilience, and love. Her children remember her as a patient, caring, and devoted mother who always put their needs above her own. Her children would like to extend a sincere thank you to Eida’s dear friend, Mariela, for all of her love and friendship she showed her.

Eida’s kindness and love for her children were among her most endearing qualities. She dedicated her life to creating a loving and supportive home, always bringing warmth and joy to their lives. Her unconditional love was a source of comfort and strength, creating cherished memories that will forever live on in the hearts of her children, family, and friends.

The viewing will take place on July 7, 2024 from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM and the funeral service

will be held on July 8, 2024, at 11:00 AM at Johnson’s Funeral Home Chapel.

Eida Salinas Diaz’ memory will live on in the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to know her. Her legacy of kindness, humor, and love will continue to inspire future generations.

En Memoria de Eida Salinas Díaz

2 de noviembre de 1937 - 3 de julio de 2024

Eida Salinas Díaz, una madre, abuela, hermana, tia y amiga devota, falleció pacíficamente, rodeada de sus

hijos, el 3 de julio de 2024, a la edad de 86 años. Su corazón bondadoso, sentido del humor contagioso, dedicación y pasion inquebrantable a su familia serán profundamente extrañados por todos los que la conocieron.

Nacida el 2 de noviembre de 1937, en Progreso Coahuila, México, Eida fue la querida hija de Guillermo Salinas Casares y Zapopan Riojas Zalazar, y la hermana adorada de otros ocho. Le sobreviven sus hijos: Rafaela, Esteban y su esposa, Linda, Esmerejildo, Jaime y su esposa, Yanet; sus nietos: Christina y su esposo, Ricardo, Steven y su esposa, Paula, Daniela, Miguel, James, Alexandra, Brookelynn; y sus bisnietos: Esteban y Pablo; así como sus hermanos: Heriberto y su esposa, Isabela, Eduardo, Eliezer y su esposa, Gloria, Rosa, Elsa y su esposo, Guillermo. Le precedieron en muerte sus padres, sus hermanos Teresa y su esposo, Paz, Edelmira, Manuel y su esposa, Teresa; sus nietos: John William Tinney y Elizabeth Marie Tinney; su cuñada, Rosalinda y su cuñado, Filiberto.

Eida encontraba alegría en los placeres simples. Tenía una pasión por la pintura, tejer, hacer ganchillo, la jardinería, la costura y caminar. Cada actividad no era solo un pasatiempo, sino un reflejo de su alma creativa y conexión profunda con la naturaleza. La costura le brindaba felicidad al crear vestidos prácticos pero hermosos. Disfrutaba capturar tanto paisajes serenos como personas a través de sus pinturas. Sus hobbies reflejaban su profunda apreciación por los placeres simples pero profundos de la vida.

El mayor orgullo y alegría de Eida fueron sus cuatro hijos: Rafaela, Esteban, Esmerejildo y Jaime, a quienes inculcó los valores de bondad, resiliencia y amor. Sus hijos la recuerdan como una madre paciente, cariñosa y dedicada que siempre ponía sus necesidades por encima de las suyas. Sus hijos desean extender un sincero agradecimiento a la querida amiga de Eida, Mariela, por todo el amor y la amistad que le brindó.

La bondad y el amor de Eida por sus hijos fueron algunas de sus cualidades más entrañables. Dedicó su vida a crear un hogar amoroso y de apoyo, siempre llevando calidez y alegría a sus vidas. Su amor incondicional fue fuente de consuelo y fortaleza, creando recuerdos queridos que vivirán para siempre en los corazones de sus hijos, familiares y amigos.

El velorio se llevará a cabo el 7 de julio de 2024, de 6:00 PM a 8:00 PM, y el servicio funerario se llevará a cabo el 8 de julio de 2024, a las 11:00 AM, en la Funeraria Johnson.

La memoria de Eida Salinas Díaz vivirá en los corazones de todos los que tuvieron la fortuna de conocerla. Su legado de bondad, humor y amor continuará inspirando a las generaciones futuras.

Ofilia S. Martinez, 72, of San Angelo passed away Saturday, June 29, 2024. She was born October 22, 1952 to Prisciliano and Ramona Sedillo, in Levelland, Texas.

Ofilia was a devoted Catholic and a proud member of the Guadalupanas of Sacred Heart Catholic Church. Every morning she would read her Bible and pray the Rosary. She also loved listening to gospel music. Besides her love and devotion to church she enjoyed traveling, shopping, holidays, and the Dallas Cowboys. Most of all she loved spending time with her children and grandkids. She adored all of her nieces and nephews and would be overjoyed when they would stop to visit.

Ofilia married Mateo Cruz, Jr. in 1972 and had 4 daughters. 

Ofilia is preceded in death by her mother and father, all of her siblings, her grandson; Jerimiah, and her beloved dog, Queenie.

She is survived by her daughters; Ramona and husband Louis Estrada, Esmeralda Cruz and significant other Ronald Nobles, Melissa Cruz, Joann and husband Garrett Baughn, 21 amazing grandkids, 14 astonishing great grandkids, her dog Fluffy, ex-husband and close friend Mateo Cruz. And Boo-Kooz of nieces and nephews.

Mom was a big-hearted woman, she was kind, caring, and generous to all whom needed help. Her passing will be felt deeply by those who knew her. She will be missed. 

We would like to thank the doctors and amazing nursing staff at Shannon Medical Center ER, 5 South, and ICU, St. David's Hospital ICU staff and Neurologist Dr. Christina Saldivar. You all were so amazing and caring with our mom. And a special thank you to aunt, Beatrice Soto; aunt, Celia Gonzales; family-in-laws, Cathy & David Baughn; and cousins, Brenda & Brittany.

Chelsea Michelle Gray, 26, passed away unexpectedly Saturday, July 6, 2024, in San Angelo.

Public viewing will be from 10:00 AM until 8:00 PM Thursday, July 18, 2024, at Robert Massie Riverside Chapel. Funeral Service will be at 11:00 AM Friday, July 19, 2024, at Robert Massie Riverside Chapel with Rev. Charles Barnes, officiating. Burial will follow at Delta Cemetery under the direction of Robert Massie Funeral Home.

Chelsea was born February 3, 1998 to James Edward Gray, Jr. and Jennifer Gray on San Angelo. She graduated from Central High School in 2016. Chelsea worked as a customer service representative for BlueCross BlueShield of Texas for the last few months. Chelsea likes spending time with her family and friends. She enjoyed traveling and going to concerts.

Survivors include her parents, James and Jennifer Gray of San Angelo; a brother, James Edward Gray, III; three sisters, , Kayla Gray of San Angelo, Krystal Gray of Austin, and Tashika Gray of San Antonio; six Aunts, Michelle Johnson, Jeannette Johnson both of San Angelo, Evelyn Johnson of Houston, Sheila Gray, Teresa Foster and husband Lamont both of San Angelo, and Bessie Ruth Phillip and husband James of Dallas; six uncles, Claude Johnson and wife Nancyy of Ballinger, Curtis Johnson and wifeJean, Oscar Johnson and wife Devise, Larry Johnson all of Dallas, Victor Gray of Weatherford, Willie Gray of San angelo, and Leandro Gray and wife Ylia of Gail; three nieces, Shanelle Rios, Tumiyuh Gray, and Aniyah Walker; two nephews, Jase Talley and Zayden Moat; a host of cousins and friends; two godchildren, Jaiden and Jailah; and her best friends, Sierra Galindo, Mark Neeley, Deja Lara, Samantha Garcia, Kelvion Hunter, Gloria Reyes, and Omar Essix.