Obituaries 2022

Peggy Berry, 68, of Hempstead, Texas passed away Monday, December 26, 2022. She was born July 20, 1954 to James Edward Fogarty and Marjorie Mae Daniel Fogarty in Austin, Texas. Peggy is preceded in death by her son Michael Freitag, husband David Bell, and husband Judge Glenn Taylor. She is survived by her husband Dean Paul Berry, son Norberto Bustos Lopez, daughter in-law Tomasia Rodriguez Martinez, and sister Jeannie Pollard. Peggy loved her pets. She also enjoyed riding horses and attending trail rides and horse races. Peggy was a free spirit and will be missed. Arrangements were entrusted to McWilliams Funeral Home, Hempstead.

Mildred Sue Rehms Bland, 79, of Carrollton, Texas passed away Sunday, November 13, 2022. She was born November 17, 1942 to Lester Robert Rehms, Sr. and Margaret Carlisle Rehms in Lake Jackson, Texas. She is preceded in death by her parents and brother Lester Robert Rehms, Jr. and is survived by her son Kirk Smith and wife Esther, daughter Penny Oslin and husband Larry, and four grandchildren. Funeral Service: Friday, November 18, 2022 at 2:00 pm at McWilliams Funeral Home, Hempstead with Brother Philip “Deke” McWilliams officiating. Burial: Hempstead Cemetery.

Jody Hill was born on September 21, 1957, to Charlie and Lois Hill in Sugarland, Texas. He went to be with the Lord on October 30, 2022, at the young age of 65. Jody is preceded in death by his father, Charlie Hill, and is survived by his wife of almost 32 years, Donna Schiel Hill; daughter Stormie Wisnoski and husband Chris; and son Stoney Hill. Jody also leaves behind his mother, Lois Hill, and three sisters, Cheryl Hardwick and husband David; Cindy Pearce and husband Ricky; and Mary Gilliam and husband Ron.  Nieces, Melissa Carter; Natalie Carter; Sarah Pearce; Charli Villarreal; and Erin Pearce.  Nephews, Steven Villarreal and Kevin Villarreal, as well as many other great nieces and nephews, relatives and friends. Jody was a man of few words, but when he spoke, everyone listened. He loved his family and was a great husband and daddy. Jody was an all-around cowboy, an avid hunter, and the best heavy equipment operator in the county. He will be greatly missed by all. Visitation: Wednesday, November 2, 2022; 5:00 pm – 8:00 pm; McWilliams Funeral Home, Hempstead. Funeral Service: Thursday, November 3, 2022; 1:00 pm; Waller County Fairgrounds. Burial:  Roberts Cemetery. Officiating: Pastor Tom Dobbs under the direction of McWilliams Funeral Home. Pallbearers: Robert Foster, Mark Evans, David George, Homer Hargrave, Marty Schultz, and Scott Kmiec. Honorary Pallbearers: Steven Villarreal, Kevin Villarreal, Louis Schiel, Leonard Triechel, Marshall Peterson, David Schiel, Bubba Schiel, Troy White, JR Schiel, TJ Schiel, Tyrone Francis, and Richard Wimberly.

It is with extreme sadness that we announce the passing of Deborah “Debbie” Mathis.  She was a bright spark in this world and will be deeply missed by many. Debbie’s family was unprepared for this unexpected loss. She touched the lives of so many. She suffered from Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis. She passed away peacefully on October 23, 2022 at age 72 at Houston Methodist West, surrounded by her husband and children. Debbie was born October 19, 1950 in Hempstead, Texas; and also called the city of Hempstead her home. Left to cherish her memory are her husband, Woody Mathis, children Michael Mathis and wife Monica, Jason Mathis and wife Kristi, and Melissa Mathis. She is also survived by her younger brother Frank Villarreal, Jr. and wife Jana, sisters Rebecca Blackford and Brenda Felder and husband Todd.  Debbie is leaving behind a loving group of Grandchildren, Trevor Mathis and wife Mady, Haley Mathis, Shelby Mathis, Cade Mathis, Cole Mathis, Allyson Sauder and husband Lee, Madison Rodriguez, Mackenzie Holliday, and Jayden Holliday. Debbie was also blessed to have three great grandchildren Carter Mathis, Adalynn Sauder, and Maxwell Sauder and numerous nieces and nephews. Debbie was preceded in death by her parents Frank and Margaret Villarreal and her mother and father in law, Stella and Woodrow Mathis, and her sister Sharon Badeaux. Debbie loved to fish, and she did a lot of that with her soulmate of 53 years. Debbie and Woody were married November 11, 1968. They did everything together. Debbie had a long career in the banking industry. She retired from Trustmark Bank in 2007. Debbie was passionate about her pets. She is leaving behind her steadfast canine companions Lucky, Jimma and Gracie. Debbie was a kind soul, never hesitating to help someone in need.  She offered a level of optimism that was honest, heartfelt, and spilled over into all that she did. She saw the world as it was and despite the challenges that existed, she still looked towards beauty and wonder as a conscious choice. She loved her family dearly. Visitation: Tuesday, October 25, 2022; 5:00 – 7:00 pm at McWilliams Funeral Home, Hempstead. Funeral services: Wednesday, October 26, 2022; 10:00 am St. Katharine Drexel Roman Catholic Church, Hempstead, Texas with Father Xavier Bilavendiran officiating under the direction of McWilliams Funeral Home. Burial: private. Pall bearers: Lee Sauder, Trevor Mathis, Cade Mathis, Cole Mathis, Jeremy Vernon, Johnny Mclure, and Jayden Holliday.

The family requests that you consider in lieu of flowers, donations be made to the Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation  

Sara Ann Halamicek Lamkin, age 81, passed away Saturday, October 8, 2022 in Tomball, Texas. She was born March 17, 1941 in El Campo, TX. Sara is preceded in death by her husband of 52 years Donald Lamkin, parents Almo and Lillian Halamicek, and sister Laura “Lulu” Davis. She is survived by her brother Kinney (Carol) Halamicek of El Campo, TX; children Melinda Black (Allyn) of Fort Myers, FL, Laura (Wayne) Yates of Waller, TX, and Jeff (Julie) Lamkin of Corpus Christi, TX; grandchildren Linzy Black of Myrtle Beach, SC, Kyle Black (Jessica) of Cape Coral, FL, Corey Black of Lehigh Acres, FL, Shelby, Emily, and Ethan Yates of Waller, TX, and Jessica and Justin Lamkin of Corpus Christi, TX; one great grandchild, Liam Black of Cape Coral, FL; and nephew Michael Davis of San Antonio, TX. Sara, affectionately known as “Mims” by many, was loved by numerous friends and family and will be greatly missed by all. Graveside services will be held Monday, October 17, 2022 at 12:30 pm at Memory Gardens Cemetery in Corpus Christi, TX with Pastor Tom Dobbs officiating under the direction of McWilliams Funeral Home, Hempstead. 

Antonio “Tony” Bazan, Jr., 68, passed away Saturday morning, September 24, 2022 at Memorial Hermann Hospital in Cypress, Texas. He is preceded in death by his parents Antonio Bazan, Sr. and Maria Candelaria Bazan and one sister Alicia Dunaway. He is survived by three sons: Samuel Bazan and wife Jacki with children Kaydence Harris, Elijah Harris, Colby Mathis, Dylan Mathis, Conner Mathis, and Murphy Mathis; second son Joseph Bazan and children Ayden Bazan, Kaleb Bazan, and Jacob Bazan; third son Matthew Hendrickson and wife Mariah with children Leslie Donahue, Zachary Anselmo, and Derek Anselmo; one daughter Andrea Sanchez and husband Jose with children Jasmine Davianna Araiza and Angelina Araiza.  Tony is also survived by four brothers: Billy Martinez and wife Susan, Ruben Bazan, Luis Bazan, and Robert Bazan and wife Laura; three sisters Isabel Mikeska and husband Lonnie, Rebecca Cantu and husband Rueben, and Rosemary Borlina and husband Harry; as well as many nieces and nephews. Tony was a good hardworking man with a big heart that knew Jesus Christ. He will be missed by all who knew him. Visitation: Wednesday, September 28, 2022; 12:00 pm – 2:00 pm. Funeral Service: Wednesday, September 28, 2022; 2:00 pm, McWilliams Funeral Home, Hempstead. Burial following at Monaville Cemetery with Pastor Bill Montgomery officiating. Pallbearers: Joseph Bazan, Samuel Bazan, Kaydence Bazan, Eric Mikeska, Luis Bazan, and Jesse Perez. Honorary Pallbearer: Billy Martinez

Robert (Bobby) Lee Bruney, 75, of Hempstead, Texas made his journey to Heaven on Saturday, August 27, 2022. Bobby was born on February 15, 1947, to Elius “Doc” Bruney and Trussy Fontenot Bruney in Jennings, Louisiana. Bobby is preceded in death by his parents and his loving wife, Sheryl Bruney. He is survived by his son Rusty Bruney and grandsons, Jacob Bruney with girlfriend Hailey and Cade Bruney, along with Bobby’s brothers Darwin, Nerrel, and Steve Bruney and sisters Ann Cain and Kathy Moore, as well as brother in-laws, sister in-laws, and numerous nephews and nieces. All that knew Bobby knew that he loved his family unconditionally. He also had a great love for NASCAR racing, the Dallas Cowboys, and enjoyed an occasional trip eastbound to the casinos! Bobby never met a stranger and always wanted to help so many. He was a great cook and he DEFINITELY loved using his cayenne pepper in almost every dish he made! Bobby will be forever remembered by his family, friends, and his partner in crime Jake (his loving Rhodesian Ridgeback). Visitation: Friday, September 2, 2022 from 6:00 pm until 9:00 pm at McWilliams Funeral Home, Hempstead. Funeral Service: Saturday, September 3, 2022 at 10:00 am at McWilliams Funeral Home. Burial following at Cedar Creek Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family asked that you consider donating to help with final expenses to: First National Bank of Bellville, acct no. 108779, Russell Bruney in care of Robert (Bobby) Bruney.

Charles Stanley Chmiel, age 80, passed away August 28, 2022. He was preceded in death by his son Charles Stanley “Stan” Chmiel II, his wife Frances Champion, 5 brothers, and 2 sisters. Charles was born in Houston, Texas and was a life-long resident of Houston and Waller County and had a special place in his heart for all animals big and small. He is survived by his daughter, Melanie Chmiel-Abke and husband Gary Abke, 3 Grandchildren — Jessica Chmiel, Aaron Chmiel, Kristen Flores, and 2 Great Grandchildren — Kenan Chmiel and Olivia Flores; as well as many other relatives, and friends. Arrangements were handled under the direction of McWilliams Funeral Home, Hempstead.

Stella Allen, age 88, of Hempstead, Texas passed away on August 13, 2022, comfortably in her home. She is preceded in death by her parents Pete and Mary Ann Mikolajewski, husband George Allen, son James Allen, sisters Blanch Weeks and Cecelia Tripple, and brothers Joe and Mike Mikolajewski. She is survived by her sisters Lillian Sheffield and husband Donald, Susan Beasley and husband Jim, brothers Charles and Pete Mikolajewski, daughter Linda Kiefer, grandchildren Amberly and Brandi Wagner and Justin Allen, great grandchildren Desmond Mayes, Jade Shalow, and Katryna, Tristin, and Braylon Allen, and numerous nieces and nephews. Although she worked hard all her life, her true passion was caring for and spending time with her family that she loved dearly. Visitation: Saturday, August 20, 2022 from 9:00 am until 11:00 am with funeral service following at 11:00 am at Lighthouse Word Church, Hempstead. Burial following at Cedar Creek cemetery with Pastor Jonelle Hammack officiating under the direction of McWilliams Funeral Home, Hempstead. Pallbearers: Douglas Mikolajewski, Desmond Mayes, Phil Tadero III, Chad Mikolajewski, Jade Shalow, and Race Mikolajewski.

In the early morning hours of Sunday, July 31, GARY ALLEN WILKINS, 89, left his earthly life for eternity with his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.  He began his life in Eagle Lake, Texas, on October 27, 1932, as the third child of Everett Preston and Allie Marie (Miculka) Wilkins.  Growing up in Eagle Lake and Hempstead, he looked up to his older siblings, Merle and Janie, who he said were the “best big brother and sister you could ever have.”  He was preceded in death by both of his parents and his brother, Merle. After graduating from Hempstead High School in 1951 and a year of study at Blinn College, Gary joined the United States Air Force in 1953 at the height of the Korean War.  He served overseas as a Munitions Specialist in the 85thBomb Squadron where he attained the rank of Staff Sergeant.  Gary was very proud to serve in the United States Armed Forces at a crucial time in American and world history.  He was later active in Waller County Post 4007 of the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) in which he served as Quartermaster for many years.  He looked forward to Veterans Day every year when he would often attend his granddaughters’ school celebrations and share stories from his “war years.” Gary met the love of his life, Jean Penry, at a dance sometime after he returned home from military service in 1956.  After a romantic courtship, Jean and Gary married on August 17, 1957.  They were married thirty-nine years when she died unexpectedly in early 1996.  In their brief life together, they made a loving home, first in Houston, then in Hempstead, where they raised their children, Cary, Jody, and Troy.  They were members of the Hempstead Church of Christ where Gary served on the men’s committee and in his Bible study classes.  Both avid sports enthusiasts, Gary coached Jean’s women’s softball team for several years, just one of the many things they loved doing together.  Later they would join bowling leagues together, travel the United States, and spend lots of time fishing and hunting.  One of their favorite escapes was to their “Centerville place” in East Texas where they built a cabin, a lake, and several deer stands.  It was their happy place along with their Hempstead home where family and friends often gathered for special occasions or just a cup of coffee and conversation at the kitchen table. Early in their marriage, Gary worked as a technician for Grabar Electric, but soon moved on to new opportunities with the Southwest Industries Division of Ingersoll-Rand where, after only a few years, he became the Supervisor/Manager of the Control Systems department.  He retired early from Ingersoll-Rand to start an electrical contracting business, G&W Electric.  Along with his son, Troy, and son-in-law, John, Gary built G&W into a successful enterprise until his retirement twenty-five years later. The son of a carpenter, Gary could build just about anything, from furniture to houses.  He was also very adept at fixing things, whether it be the home air conditioner or a car engine burned up because his son forgot to regularly check the oil level.  A man of mechanical talents, Gary was often called upon by family and friends to bring his toolbox and help with a repair. Gary will be missed by many, including his children, Cary (Deborah), Jody (John) Sheffield, and Troy.  He was especially proud of his six grandchildren who he loved spending time with over the years: Kelley (Cory) Land, Chad (Kelli) Wilkins, Eric (Katy) Wilkins, Kimberley (Derrick) Meyer, Kasey (Steven) Dean, and Lauren (Kyle) Lake.  Gary was blessed by great grandchildren “too many to count” (thirteen) but who no less brightened his days when they were with him: Grace Land, Trever Land, Landon Meyer, Kennedy Meyer, Grayson Meyer, Henley Dean, Haylen Dean, Hallie Dean, Easton Wilkins, Browning Wilkins, Teagan Wilkins, Penelope “Poppy” Wilkins, and Paxton Lake.  Gary is also lovingly remembered by his sister, Janie Phillips Guinn, and his many nieces and nephews and extended family. A celebration of Gary’s life and resurrection will be held on Friday, August 5, 11:00 (visitation at 10:00) at McWilliams Funeral Home in Hempstead, with the Reverend Erik Gragert officiating.  Burial with military honors will follow at Old Salem Cemetery in Howth Station.  For those desiring, in lieu of flowers, please consider a gift to Camp Hope in memory of Gary Wilkins.  Camp Hope is a mission of the PTSD Foundation of America that brings hope and healing to combat veterans and their families suffering from the effects of combat-related post-traumatic stress (ptsdusa.org or 9724 Derrington Road, Houston, 77064).

Ellen Mae Schobel Scroggins , age 87 of Hempstead, made her journey to Heaven on Tuesday, July 19, 2022 at the home of her daughter in Brenham, Tx. Ellen (Mamaw) will be forever remembered by her children Sandra J. Tucker and husband W. D., Linda Lane and husband Jerry, son Charles Polasek, 5 grandchildren and 4 great grandchildren. Ellen was born Januray 24, 1935 to Harry O. Schobel and Sophie A. Supak Schobel in Ellinger, Texas. She grew up on the family farm in Ellinger and attend school in Columbus. Shortly after moving to Houston with husband Charles Polasek, Sr. he passed away after a short 5 years of marriage. Ellen then met and married Charles G. Scroggins on November 23, 1963. Ellen and Charles owned and operated Scroggins Garage in the Fieldstore Comunity for over 20 years before moving to Hempstead in 1992. There Ellen helped her husband in his business ventures and became a fulltime homemaker. Working in her yard was her passion.  Her yard was her pride and joy and she had received “Hempstead Yard Of The Month” several times…an honor she was very proud of. Ellen is preceded in death by her parents Harry and Sophie Schobel; her loving husband of 55 years Charles G. Scroggins; two brothers, Harry J. Schobel and Dixie J. Schobel and nephew Robbie Schobel. The family would like to thank Brazos Valley Hospice Brenham who took excellent care of her during her final stay and to McWilliams Funeral Home of Hempstead. A Memorial service for the family will be held at a later date.

Felipe Lopez Sanchez, 37, of Hempstead, Texas passed away Thursday, April 21, 2022. He was born June 9, 1984 to Felipe Lopez and Maria DeJesus Sanchez in San Luis de la Paz, Guanajuato, Mexico. Felipe is survived by his wife Leticia Lopez, daughter Natalie Lopez, brothers Jose Juan Lopez and Adan Lopez, and sisters Juana Lopez and Lidia Lopez. Visitation: Monday, April 25, 2022 from 5:00 pm until 8:00 pm with a rosary at 6:00 pm at McWilliams Funeral Home, Hempstead. Funeral Service: Tuesday, April 26, 2022 at 10:00 am at St. Katharine Drexel Church. Burial following at St. Mary’s Cemetery, Hempstead with Father Xavier Bilavendiran officiating.

Jon Andrew Stobo, 24, of Prairie View, Texas passed away Monday, April 18, 2022. He was born February 23, 1998 to Joy Clarice Stobo in Houston, Texas. Jon is survived by his mother Joy Stobo, brother Eden Bazan, Jr. and wife Katie, aunt Lisa Stobo, uncle Ralph Stobo, cousins Alicia Mitcham and Marina Wooten, niece Elleri Bazan, and nephews: Eden Bazan III, Kash Bazan, and Ellis Bazan. Visitation will be held Wednesday, April 27, 2022 from 9:00 am until 11:00 am with a funeral service beginning at 11:00 am at McWilliams Funeral Home, Hempstead.

Aranza Belen Ferrazano Delgado, age 7, passed away Thursday, March 10, 2022 at her home. She was born June 24, 2014 in Maracaibo, Venezuela to Daniel Salvador Ferrazano and Marian Andreina Delgado. Aranza is survived by her parents and many other family members. Arrangements are being handled by McWilliams Funeral Home, Hempstead.

Delta Fay McWilliams Canon, 83, of Houston, Texas passed away Monday, February 28, 2022. She was born November 1, 1938 to James Alton McWilliams and Valina Gertrude Clepper McWilliams in Waller, Texas. She is survived by her sons Robert Glen Canon and wife Jessica, Gary Ray Canon and wife Teresa, and grandchildren Nicholas Canon and Holly Bousman. Visitation: Thursday, March 3, 2022 from 5:00 pm until 8:00 pm at McWilliams Funeral Home, Hempstead. Graveside Service: Friday, March 4, 2022 at 10:00 am at Fieldstore Cemetery with Pastor Mike Garrett officiating.

Dorothy Jean Styers, 92, of Hempstead, Texas passed away Wednesday, February 23, 2022. She was born October 31, 1929 to Frank Howard Kidd and Jessie Bell Johnson Kidd in Conroe, Texas. She is preceded in death by her husband, Odis Styers, Jr. and survived by her son Odis Styers III and wife Susie, daughters Brenda Kiesewetter and husband Jodie and Rita Lewis and husband Randy, brother F.H. Kidd, Jr., sister Mary Bell Rosprim, 6 grandchildren, and 12 great-grandchildren. Visitation: Sunday, February 27, 2022 from 5:00 pm until 7:00 pm at McWilliams Funeral Home, Hempstead. Funeral Service: Monday, February 28, 2022 at 10:00 am at First Baptist Hempstead with Pastor John Brandt officiating. Burial following at Hempstead Cemetery.

Brian Keith Becvar, 34, of Hempstead went to be with his Lord and Savior on February 16, 2022, surrounded by family at home in Hempstead. Brian was born July 18, 1987, in Brenham, TX to Keith and Rhonda (Abke) Becvar. He is preceded in death by his grandfathers Charles Abke, Clinton Becvar and Will Johnson. He is survived by his parents, sister Britni and husband Brian Sandifer, niece Bryleigh Sandifer, nephews Brentley and Brady Sandifer, grandmothers Lynda Abke Johnson and Mary Becvar. Brian also leaves to mourn his life long “brother” Jonathon DiIorio, his faithful and protective dog Lexi, his many “running buddies”, aunts and uncles, Gary (Melanie) Abke, Larry (Julie) Abke, Susan (Michael) Roehling, Kent (Christina) Becvar, Amber (Frank) Buerger, Jodi (Trey) Evans, as well as a multitude of other relatives and friends. Visitation will be Monday, February 21^st from noon to 2pm at Waller County Fairgrounds. The service will follow at 2pm. Interment will be at Old Salem Cemetery. Officiants are Tom Dobbs and Darrin Trammell under the direction of McWilliams Funeral Home, Hempstead. Pallbearers are Jonathon DiIorio, Darin Stanley, Justin Hare, Jared Hare, Justin DiIorio, Steven Villarreal, Brian Sandifer and Ryan Peters. Honorary pallbearers are Bryleigh, Brentley and Brady Sandifer. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Hempstead FFA, attention Todd Thiel, P.O. Box 1007 Hempstead, TX 77445.

Maria Dimas Guajardo, 94, of Hempstead, Texas passed away Tuesday, February 15, 2022. She was born to Inez Dimas and Elvira Martinez Dimas in San Antonio, Texas. Mrs. Guajardo is preceded in death by her husband, Tranquilino Guajardo and is survived by her daughter Noelia Rosales, brothers: Jose Dimas and Rogelio Dimas, sisters: Josefina Reza, Virginia Munos, and Marina Ostigin; 8 grandchildren, 3 great-grandchildren, 3 great-great grandchildren, as well as numerous nieces and nephews. Visitation: Monday, February 21, 2022 from 5:00 pm until 7:00 pm at McWilliams Funeral Home, Hempstead with a Rosary at 7:00 pm. Funeral Service: Tuesday, February 22, 2022 at 10:00 am at St. Katharine Drexel Church with burial following at St. Mary’s Cemetery.

Gregory Gene Hunter ended his earthly journey on January 31, 2022.  He was born on April 7, 1971 in Houston, Texas to Karol Ann Handrick Hunter and Aubrey Gene Hunter.  He attended school at Hempstead ISD.  After school he went to work for Enerpipe, Ltd at various locations across Texas and the US.  He was a hard worker who loved what he did and had a deep respect for his fellow co-workers.  After his father died in 2000 Greg took on the role as head of the family.  He took that role seriously and stepped up to the plate whenever needed.  When “them babies” came he was a wonderful uncle to his “McKenzie Doodle” and “Bubba”.  He loved his family with a passion and was always there for them.  Always putting them first.  Greg had many friends and loved life to the fullest.  He was greatly loved by his family and will surely be missed by all.   He loved deeply, worked hard and played heartily.  Gregory was preceded in death by his father and sister – Rachell Rodriquez. He is survived by his mother Karol Hunter, niece McKenzie Rodriquez, nephew Reece Rodriquez and brother-in-law Ruben Rodriquez all of Hempstead.  Numerous aunts, uncles, cousins and a host of friends. Greg’s family would like to thank everyone who has expressed kind words and deeds during this difficult time.  Visitation: Monday, February 14, 2022 from 5-7 pm at McWilliams Funeral Home, Hempstead. Funeral service: Tuesday, February 15, 2022 at 2:00 pm at McWilliams Funeral Home. Burial following at Hempstead Cemetery with Brother Philip “Deke” McWilliams officiating.

Shalease Alisha Parker, 50, of Hempstead, Texas passed away Thursday, February 3, 2022. She was born January 16, 1972 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin to Samuel Alex Parker, Jr. and Sharon Ann Yarbrough Parker. Shalease is preceded in death by her parents and one sister Shawn Angela Parker-Turner. She is survived by her sister Shavette Parker Brady. Arrangements were handled by McWilliams Funeral Home, Hempstead.

Barbara L. Foster, age 78, passed away on February 1, 2022, just two days before her 79^th birthday.  She was born on February 3, 1943 to the late William Bert Mitchell and Zelma (O’Neal) Mitchell in Kosse, TX. Barbara was the youngest of their five children. Barbara is preceded in death by husband, Lewis Hamilton (Hammy) Foster, daughter Sheila Villarreal, son Rodney L. Foster, son-in-law Russell (Rusty) Leatherwood, parents William Bert and Zelma Mitchell, siblings Dean Mitchell, Bertie Shetter,  and Annie Nell (Sally) Mitchell Hall. Barbara is survived  by daughter Susan and Jon Repka, John Hamilton (Johnny) and Cathy Foster, Russell Mitchell and fiancé Joann Presswood, Sally and Mike Peters, and son-in-law Raul Villarreal; grandchildren Mitchell Villarreal, Thomas Kmiec, Melissa Anhorn, Alan and Sandra Mitchell, Zack Leatherwood, Philip Villarreal, JP and Lindsay Leatherwood, Ryan and Stephanie Mattox, Jodie and Travis Nichols, Josh and Skylar Leatherwood, Dylan Villarreal and fiancé  Taylor Livingston, Cameron Foster and Kelli Foster and Amber Ratkus, sister Margie Shetter  and numerous great- grandchildren. In addition to her grandkids, there are many that  know Barbara as MeMe from her babysitting and work at the First Baptist church.  She loved working with children and was very active in vacation bible school. She often spent hours asking about each one of her “kids” to see if there were any updates.  As the dementia progressed her favorite pastime was dominoes and looking through Facebook to see updates of everyone. Thank you to the Spring Cypress Assisted Living and Memory care for caring for Barbara during her last three years. Memorial Services: Saturday, February 12, 2022 at 11:00 am at First Baptist Church of Hempstead. Arrangements were handled by McWilliams Funeral, Hempstead.

Nolen Douglas Roberts was the only child born to Nolen and Ina Mae Hammett Roberts on October 1, 1941, in Kermit, Texas.   Doug’s father worked in the oilfield near San Angelo, Texas and made Christoval, Texas, home of 6-man football, his home.  To say that Doug liked sports was an understatement.  Some of his fondest and most shared stories revolve around 6-man football, where he was the starting quarterback his senior year of high school.  He also excelled, academically, as he was the salutatorian of his graduating class.  Doug was a proud graduate of Texas Tech University, graduating with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Government in June, 1963.  He went on to work for Hallmark Cards, and eventually purchased his own Hallmark store.  After his career with Hallmark, Doug became a real estate agent, obtained his broker’s license, and opened the Century 21-Roberts Realty office in Hempstead, Texas. Doug met his wife, Lynn Sartain, in Luckenbach, Texas, in 1979.  It didn’t take him long to realize that she was the love of his life, and they married on November 30, 1979.  Doug and Lynn raised two children together and spent every minute of their free time hauling kids to rodeos, football games, or any other extracurricular activity in which their kids were participating.  When grandkids came along, they were their biggest cheerleaders and supporters.  Doug loved those Friday night lights at Bellville’s Pasture of Pain and could be found in the bleachers cheering on the Brahmas, rain or shine.  The only team more important to him than the Bellville Brahmas was the Dallas Cowboys.  Oh, how he loved (and faithfully defended) those Cowboys. Doug and Lynn enjoyed life to the fullest during their 42 years of marriage, traveling the world and cruising the seas.  They recently enjoyed their 22^nd cruise together.  Family was the most important thing to Doug.  He loved large and was loved in return.  His smile, hugs, wit, humor, and wisdom will be greatly missed by our family, as he was our rock. Our beloved “Papaw” was called home on January 31, 2022.  He is survived by his wife, Lynn, daughter, Lisa (and husband, Brad), son, Michael (and wife, Laura), and four cherished grandchildren:  Cassidy, Courtney, Jacob, and Jason.  In lieu of flowers, Lynn would encourage memorial contributions to M.D. Anderson or the charity of your choice. Arrangements were handled by McWilliams Funeral Home, Hempstead.

Marvin Joseph Machac, 81, of Brookshire, Texas passed away Tuesday, January 18, 2022. He was born March 2, 1940 to Joseph Machac and Christina Jurek Machac in Brookshire, Texas. He is preceded in death by his wife Brenda and survived by his brothers Victor Machac, Joe Machac, Jr. and James Machac; sisters Linda Burke and Theresa Worthy and husband Roy; and numerous nephews and nieces. Visitation: Tuesday, January 25, 2022 from 9:00 am until 11:00 am at McWilliams Funeral Home, Hempstead. Funeral Service: Tuesday, January 25, 2022 at 11:00 am at McWilliams Funeral Home with Father Xavier Bilavendiran officiating. Burial following at St. Mary’s Cemetery, Hempstead.

Jorge Jimenez Medina, 45, of Waller, Texas passed away Saturday, January 8, 2022. He was born February 29, 1976 to Jesus Jimenez Lopez and Leonor Medina Garcia in Tarimoro, GTO, Mexico. He is survived by his mother Leonor Medina Garcia, wife Angelica Cardenas Sanchez, son Omar Jimenez Cardenas, brothers: Jose Luis Jimenez, Arturo Jimenez, Felipe Jimenez, Ramiro Jimenez, and Miguel Jimenez and sisters: Amalia Alvarez, Maria De Jesus, Maria De Luz. Funeral service: Thursday, January 13, 2022 at 10:00 am at St. Katharine Drexel Church with burial following at St. Martin De Porres Cemetery, Waller, Texas. Father Xavier Bilavendiran officiating under the direction of McWilliams Funeral Home, Hempstead.