Donald “Don” G. McCullough, Sr. of Hempstead, Texas, was truly a remarkable individual. Over a span of just four months, he bravely fought an aggressive battle against lung, bone, and brain cancer, all while dealing with an existing blood cancer. This struggle was further complicated by three devastating strokes within 12 days. However, Don was determined to give everything he had, and he did. Sadly, after enduring severe pain in hopes of surviving the cancer treatments, he passed away on November 14, 2024, at MD Anderson Hospital. Born on November 13, 1939, he held on long enough to celebrate his 85th birthday just a day before his passing. Above all, Don was a loyal friend, always there for anyone in need. He had a remarkable ability to never say “no,” which greatly benefited those around him. He rarely denied himself things either; he truly enjoyed life. His love for his family was immense, and he never missed an opportunity to express it. Even in the last four months of his life, he prioritized the well-being of his loved ones and worried about ensuring they were okay. In his fifties, Don made the decision to leave city life behind in favor of the country. He adored his “farm,” which included horses, cows, stray dogs, and the enjoyment of baling hay. He found joy in golfing and hunting with his sons and grandson. He also participated in trail rides, floated down rivers, and camped annually with family and friends. His culinary skills shone during the holidays when he cooked turkeys, keeping everyone connected. Notably, in his younger years, he even owned a stock car named “Eight Ball.” Life with Don was never dull. Don served in the United States Air Force for four years and owned and operated an industrial X-ray company for many years, with the assistance of his sons and family. Even as he approached retirement, he continued to go out on “jobs,” expecting to live to be 104 and likely still outpacing all of us, if not for his brief but devastating illness. He is survived by his wife of 67 years, Sandra “Sandy” S. McCullough, and their five children: Tammie J. (Terry) Pavlu, Donald “Don” G. (Ronda, deceased) McCullough Jr., Cheryce G. Hunsinger, Kirt D. (Stacie) McCullough, and Keith R. (Cecilia “Sisi”) McCullough. He also leaves behind 11 grandchildren: David K. Hustus Jr., Christopher M. “Chris” (Laura) Zarate, Brandon C. (Alisa) Hunsinger, Jason P. Clapper, Brandon K. (Kayla) McCullough, Shara R. (Stephanie “Stef”) Hazel, Chelsea N. (Matthew “Matt”) Rodriguez, Taylor H. Hall, Laine K. Pavlu, Shelby N. (Tracy) Robin, and Ashley E. McCullough, along with nine great-grandchildren. Don was the son of the late Noel C. McCullough and the late Cecilia “Ceily” G. McCullough. As the oldest of six siblings, he is survived by Charles “Charlie” (Janice) McCullough and James “Jimmie” (Mary) McCullough, and he was preceded in death by siblings Janet Landry, Richard (Betty) McCullough, and Cheryl I. Shears. He also had one remaining aunt, one uncle, and numerous cousins, nieces, and nephews. Services will be held at McWilliams Funeral Home in Hempstead, Texas, on November 23, 2024, at 11 a.m.
Lelia Gray, formerly of Hempstead, Texas, passed away Tuesday, September 10, 2024, at the age of 103. She was born September 29, 1920, to Lee and Hattie Cox in Houston, Texas. Lelia lived a long healthy happy life! She met the love of her life Millard at a USO dance in Houston. They moved to San Antonio, TX in 1957. Lelia worked for 17 years at Mac Arthur High School as a Secretary to the Counselors. When she retired, they moved to Hempstead, TX to the family property. Lelia & Millard lived in Hempstead for 36 years. Lelia volunteered at the library and was secretary for AARP in Hempstead. She loved gardening, taking care of her dogs & cats, enjoyed books, crossword puzzles and playing games. She is preceded in death by her husband Millard Gray and survived by her son Millard (Skip) Jr., and spouse Cindy, daughters: Linda and spouse Tom, Mary Ann and spouse Tim; grandchildren: Jessica, Bryan, Christopher, Hilary, Stacy & Patrick and great-grandchildren Lane, Paisley, William, Harley, Olivia & Harrison. Thank you to Janet and her Hospice team for their compassionate care for our mom. Lelia was loved and cherished by many people. She will be missed. Graveside Service: Tuesday, September 17, 2024, at 11:00 am at Houston National Cemetery with Brother Philip “Deke” McWilliams officiating under the direction of McWilliams Funeral Home, Hempstead.
Mr. Walter V. Moore III was born on May 16, 1949, in Houston, Texas. His parents were Walter V. Moore Jr and Leah Moore (Pope). As a young man he was a steel worker and built the skyscrapers in the iconic Houston skyline. Walter moved to Hempstead, Texas to help run his family’s ranch. He also became a member of The United States Postal Service and proudly served the Waller Post office for many years. Walter was widely known for his carved watermelons, Christmas Adam’s prank presents, and as the “Santa Claus Mailman”. His favorite hobbies were crossword puzzles, fishing and golfing. He was affectionately known as “The Butcher of Pebble Beach”. Despite his impressive work ethic, he wasn’t a company man; he was a family man with a great sense of humor that not many had the privilege to witness. His greatest joy was spending time with his family playing pranks and solving riddles. Walter was survived by his wife, Bonnie Elizabeth (Roberts) Moore; son, Joshua Moore; daughter, Samantha Pierce and her husband Ronald; grandson, Riley Pierce; granddaughters, Meagan, Caitlyn, and Rebecca Pierce. Walter V. Moore III was greatly loved and will be equally greatly missed by all who knew him. Arrangements were entrusted to McWilliams Funeral Home, Hempstead.
Faye Lane Mathis was born on November 27, 1945, in Hempstead, Texas to Walter Schoettler and Flora Williams Schoettler. She was confirmed in the Lutheran Church and years later baptized at First Baptist Church Hempstead. She was a graduate of Hempstead High School. On April 30, 1968, she married Jerry Lane and had two children. Faye has always enjoyed life and loved people; never meeting a stranger. Her smile could light up a room. She worked at Fowler’s Supermarket, Lawrence Marshall Chevrolet, and Citizens State Bank, now known as Prosperity Bank. She enjoyed her job at the bank while waiting on all her customers as a teller. She married Jack Mathis on June 7, 2008, shortly after retiring from Prosperity Bank. Then in her retirement years she and Jack worked at different campsites in North Carolina, Oregon, and Texas enjoying RV life. The highlight of this was traveling, meeting, and visiting with all her co-workers and guests she encountered while working at the gatehouse. Faye passed away on August 9, 2024, at the age of 78. She is survived by her brother Walter Schoettler, sister Waldean Villarreal, daughter Shelly Lane, son Justin Lane and wife Rebecca, granddaughter Bailey Welsh and her son Cayson, granddaughter Claire Lane, and numerous nieces and nephews. She is preceded in death by her parents Walter and Flora Schoettler, sister Louise who died as an infant, sister-in-law Vivian Schoettler, and husband Jack Mathis. The family would like to express our sincere thanks and gratitude to her dear sweet friend, Linda Akins, who faithfully encouraged, supported, visited, prayed for and assisted with doctor appointments these last few years. We appreciate all you did. Visitation: Thursday, August 15, 2024, 10:00 am – 11:00 am at First Baptist Church of Hempstead. Funeral Service: Thursday, August 15, 2024, 11:00 am at First Baptist Church of Hempstead. Burial: Hempstead Cemetery with Pastor John Brandt officiating under the direction of McWilliams Funeral Home, Hempstead.
Robert Franklin Mayfield, 67, of Katy, Texas by way of Corinth, Mississippi, was born on February 11th, 1957 and passed away on July 31st, 2024. He enjoyed motor vehicles of all kinds, including fast cars, motorcycles, and watercraft. Robert was very good at building and fixing things and was always willing to lend a helping hand. Robert had a devoted relationship with Christ and was strong in his faith, generous and kind of spirit, and a caring husband to his beloved widow, Elena Mayfield. He is preceded in death by his loving mother, Margaret Helen Irvin and his devoted “extra” father, Darrell Nichols, his uncle, Charles Irvin Sr., and aunt Helen Irvin, both of Hempstead, Texas; as well as his Aunt Inez Brewer and Uncles Bill, James L., and Bud Irvin of Corinth. He leaves behind his sweet Elena in the home they made together in Texas, his daughter Amanda and her husband Scott Thomas, his brother Randall Nichols and sister-in-law Helen Marie Nichols, his uncle Danny Irvin and aunt Barbara Irvin, and two cherished grandchildren: Brandon and Brittany, all of Corinth, Mississippi. Robert will be dearly missed by all. Visitation: Sunday, August 4, 2024, 9:00 am – 11:00 am, McWilliams Funeral Home. Funeral Service: Sunday, August 4, 2024, 11:00 am, McWilliams Funeral Home. Burial: Hempstead Cemetery with Brother Philip “Deke” McWilliams officiating.
Linda Sue Mizell, 60, of Hempstead, Texas passed away Monday, July 8, 2024, at her home. Linda was born on October 19, 1963, in Hempstead, where she has lived the majority of her life on the family farm, also known as the “Robertson Compound”. She attended and graduated from Waller High School in 1982, where she participated in the band and played the bass drum. Linda was always willing to work to help her family. Later in life, she worked in the medical field in billing and collections. Soon thereafter, Linda became an office manager in the medical field. Throughout her career, she was known for her hard work, dedication, and passion for helping others. But more than anything, Linda was a devoted mom, sister, daughter, aunt and Nanny to anyone who knew her. She always put her family first and the well-being of her grandkids, which also meant spoiling them rotten. She loved all of them fiercely and it showed. To know her meant you knew, “She told it like it was” whether you liked what she had to say or not. She would give good advice and encouragement. In her free time, she loved to travel with her husband, Hopper to Richland Chambers Lake to fish and set jug lines. She was the true Boat Captain. During the winter, she loved to hunt and use one of the many fancy rifles she owned. You would never see her without her big purse, cup and bag that contained everything under the Sun. She loved to sew, quilt and make blankets for her kids and grandkids. She loved to bake and can anything grown from their garden. Linda was a person who had many interests that benefited others. Linda is survived by her mother Kattie Armer Robertson, husband James Mizell, sons Richard Townsend and wife Amanda, Eric Townsend and wife Laura, stepson Jared Mizell and wife Laura, stepdaughter Audra Troutman and husband Michael, brother Leslie Robertson and wife Dina, sisters Thelma Martin and husband Bobby, Kathy Eckerman and husband David, Rebecca Tillery, and 13 grandchildren. Linda made an impact in so many people’s lives. She will forever be loved and missed as a loving mother, wife, sister, aunt and grandmother. Visitation: Monday, July 15, 2024, from 8:30 am until 10:00 am at McWilliams Funeral Home, Hempstead. Funeral Service: 10:00 am with burial following at Shiloh Cemetery with Pastor Wayne Mitschke officiating under the direction of McWilliams Funeral Home.
Joe Machac, Jr. of Monaville passed away on June 12, 2024, at the Brookshire nursing home. Joe, the fourth son of Joe Machac Sr. and Christina Jurek Machac, was born in Waller County on May 19, 1946. According to his older brother Victor (now deceased), Joe was born at his aunt’s house on May 19th because his mother and father couldn’t make it to the hospital in Hempstead due to bad weather. The doctor did not sign the birth certificate for at least a day or maybe later. Victor stated that the delay in getting the doctor’s signature resulted in dating Joe’s official birth certificate as May 20, 1946. The official certificate identifies his name as J R rather than Joe and failed to identify him as Joe, Jr. Because Joe was always adamant that he was actually “Joe, Jr” and his birthday was May 19th, that is the information on his headstone and for this Remembrance Celebration. Joe is survived by his brother, James Machac; his two sisters, Theresa Machac Worthy and husband Roy III, and Linda Machac Burke; and, his four nephews, Roy Worthy, IV and Andrew Worthy, and Christopher Burke and Nathanial Burke. Joe was preceded in death by his parents, Christine Jurek Machac and Joseph Machac, his brothers: Victor, David, and Marvin and sister-in-law, Brenda, his sister, Carolyn Machac, and his brother-in-law, Michael Burke. Joe attended the Pattison elementary school. He transferred to the Texas School for the Blind (TSB) in 1956 and attended through May 1967. In the family home, Joe’s mother proudly displayed his 1965 Gorriaran Wrestling award for the most pins in the least amount of time and his TSB trophies for shorthand (braille), civics, and Outstanding Wrestling. During his 10 years at TSB, their father and Victor brought Joe home for holidays and summer vacation. At home, Joe helped on the family farm and James remembers that Joe could steer the tractor in straight rows and lay out straight rows for their mother’s garden. Joe said his summer memories were about helping his mother weed the garden and pick the vegetables at just the right time, feeling the difference between weeds and beans ready for picking. Later, Joe helped his brothers by washing dishes by feeling to make them clean all over. Joe shelled pecans for the family and was generous in showing his appreciation of others by giving them shelled pecans. While he still had his hearing, he listened to the radio almost non-stop, and was consistently ready to share weather updates and current baseball statistics, especially statistics about his favorite team, the Astros. Joe admitted that he missed being able to hear the weather and sports, but he once said that his worst “loss” was that his fingers could no longer feel braille. A caregiver at the hospital wrote on the board that Joe’s #1 hope was to walk again someday. At Brookshire, his most noticeable losses were his sense of taste and the way his mind was shutting down. Joe was faithful in his Christian beliefs and was a member of St. Katharine Drexel Catholic Church in Hempstead. He was pleased to have visitors, and appreciative of the friends and neighbors who came to see him through the years, passed time with him, and helped him with shopping trips. The information in this celebration and remembrance document was shared with Joe. Through Grace of God and the message of the cross, Joe is enjoying his new body – he can touch, feel, walk, taste, see wonderful colors, and reunite with family and friends who have gone before him. And Joe said, “That is correct!” Pallbearers today are Joe’s 4 nephews: Chris and Nathanial Burke, Roy IV and Andy Worthy; Honorary pallbearers as Joe’s cousins: Bobby Drehn and George Machac, and friend, John Busby. Funeral arrangements have been entrusted with McWilliams Funeral Home in Hempstead, Texas: Visitation will be held Thursday, June 20, 2024, at 9:00 a.m. Services beginning at 10:00 a.m., followed by burial at the Catholic Cemetery. Donations may be made to St. Catherine Drexel Catholic Church, 800 FM 1488, Hempstead, Texas 77445.
Eugene “Gene” Elison Bennatt, 78, of Hempstead, Texas passed away Tuesday, May 14, 2024. He was born March 29, 1946, to Fulton E. Bennatt and Dorothy Nell Wawarofsky Bennatt in Hempstead, Texas. Gene is survived by his wife Carolyn Bennatt, son David Light, daughters Kerri Wilkerson and husband James, and Kristi Dallmeyer and husband Larry, brother Eddie Bennatt, and six grandchildren to whom he loved being Papa: Korbin, Noah, and Jules Wilkerson; Dylan, Derrick, and Mekenzie Dallmeyer. Graveside Services: Saturday, May 18, 2024 at 10:00 am, Hempstead Cemetery with Brother Philip “Deke” McWilliams officiating under the direction of McWilliams Funeral Home, Hempstead.
Theodore “Ted” H. Hyden, Jr., 53, of Hempstead, Texas passed away Tuesday, April 23, 2024. He was born May 24, 1970 to Theodore H. Hyden, Sr. and Alejandra Palacios Hyden in Los Fresnos, Texas. Ted is survived by his wife Tina Hyden, sons Tristin, Trintin, and Legend Hyden, daughters Tatumn and Morgan Hyden, and sister Jennifer DeHarte. Arrangements were entrusted to McWilliams Funeral Home, Hempstead.
Saul Hernandez, 79, of Hempstead, Texas passed away Tuesday, March 5, 2024. He was born January 15, 1945 to Manuel Hernandez and Manuela Codina in Tamaulipas, Mexico. He is survived by his wife Sofia Hernandez, sons: Eric Hernandez and wife Julie, and Saul Hernandez, Jr., daughter Sandra Mancilla and husband Adam, brother Baldemar Hernandez and wife Yolanda, and numerous grandchildren.
Visitation: Friday, March 8, 2024 from 11:00 am until 8:00 pm with a Rosary at 6:00 pm at McWilliams Funeral Home, Hempstead. Funeral Service: Saturday, March 9, 2024 at 10:00 am at St. Katharine Drexel Church, Hempstead. Burial following at St. Mary’s Cemetery, Hempstead, Texas with Father Xavier Bilavendiran officiating under the direction of McWilliams Funeral Home.
Opal Grace (Stefka) Trent was born in Waller County on November 1, 1929, to Delphine Stefka and Vlasta (Holik) Stefka. She peacefully passed away on the evening of Sunday, March 3, 2024 at the age of 94. Opal lived a long life, and is the eldest living Stefka on family record. Opal is preceded in death by her parents; her sons, Erwin Lee Hartman, Jr. and Gary Douglas Hartman; her adoring husband of 45 years, Glen Elsworth Trent; brother, John Del Stefka; sister, Ruby (Stefka) Stepan and brother-in-law, Raymond Stepan. She is survived immediately by her loving grandchildren, Anessa Sillman and Chris, Andrea Silva and Mike, Garrett Hartman and Valerie. Opal treasured the many great-grandchildren she leaves behind: Bridgit, Dallas & Eleni Sillman; Noah Hartman and Kaylee, Devin Garrison; Hayden, Jake & Blake Hartman, and she would have loved welcoming the latest Hartman (expected June 2024). Opal also leaves behind her beloved niece, Mary Jane (Stepan) Alexander and husband, Rick; as well as great nephews, Rick Alexander (wife, Cindy), and Ryan Alexander (wife, Jenny); and great-great-nephews, Braden & Trace Alexander. The family would like to extend an immeasurable amount of love, gratitude and appreciation to the owners and caretakers at Tuscany Living Villas in Katy, where Opal was able to comfortably live the last 3.5 years, surrounded by compassion and kindness every day. To Melissa, Rhonda, Verna, Ashley, Maryann, Monica, Davena, Annette, Zonnia, Mali, and Tinu – you are in our hearts and we can’t express how grateful we are for the love you poured out on Grandma. You know how much she loved each of you, and we do too! Our thoughts are also with Grandma’s sweet roommate, Ms. Pat, who she referred to as her “baby,” and Ms. Pat referred to Opal as her “mama” – we pray for comfort for Ms. Pat, as well as the staff at Tuscany. We would also like to thank the incredible staff at Katy Hospice Care for the impeccable attention and care they provided for Grandma until her very last breath – thank you, Tina & Jennifer, for your kindness and love! A graveside service will be held on Friday, March 8, 2024 at 10:00am at Hempstead Cemetery in Hempstead Texas with Brother Philip “Deke” McWilliams officiating, under the direction of McWilliams Funeral Home.
Victoria “Vicki” Ann Christian was born August 8, 1945, as the only child to Joyous Louise Wood and Harvey Marvin Christian. She grew up in Richmond, Texas and later, at the age of 12, moved to Southside Place in Houston. As a child, her dream was to become a matador. She graduated from Lamar High School in 1964, and later attended Zorn Business College while doing the books for a company in Houston. Right out of high school, she married William “Bill” Flanagan, and they later moved to Hempstead, Texas where they founded Precision Urethane Products in 1970. They bought some land and built a home, and she became a member of First Baptist Church, Hempstead. In 1974, they welcomed their son, William Christian “Chris” Flanagan, and in 1975, their daughter Kimberly Ann Flanagan. Bill and Vicki had a wonderful marriage for many years. In 1987, she married Kenneth Little and they moved to the bay. Her stepson, Kevin also lived with them for some time. She absolutely loved the bay and had so many childhood memories there with her parents, aunts and uncles, cousins, and later, with her children. As time went on, she moved back to Houston and earned her Associate’s Degree in 1997. She became a Certified Legal Assistant, and was a Paralegal for Pagel, Davis and Hill for many years. At that time, she was an active member of South Main Baptist Church of Houston, where she made many friends who she loved dearly. Later, she and Kenneth divorced, but remained very good friends until his death. In 2001, she was so happy to become a grandmother to Nina Grace Flanagan and Bailey Ann Puckett. In her later years, she returned to Hempstead to be with her children and granddaughters, who called her “Gicki.” She attended every event of theirs that she could. She returned to work at the family business that she helped start and was a key part of the Precision Urethane & Machine, Inc. team. She enjoyed working with everyone so much. She worked daily with Kimberly, Chris, and Bailey, who recently received her Bachelor’s Degree in Business, from Sam Houston State University. She was so proud of Bailey, and Bailey completely adored her. When she was not working with her family, she was practicing her faith. She rejoined First Baptist Church, Hempstead and absolutely loved it all over again. She loved and was very active in her Bible study and Sunday school groups, and Church services. While her faith was always at the forefront of her life, her second love was the sea. She loved to sit by the ocean and fish, or just listen to the waves. She loved to dance, sing, play cards, boat rides, every type of flower, the moon, and so many of God’s countless blessings. Dogs, especially dachshunds, were her favorite, and she was theirs. She noticed and loved all the small things in life and was thankful for every little thing that God provided. She knew the answers to everything, it seemed, and was a good steward of her time. She is survived by her daughter, Kimberly Flanagan and son, Chris Flanagan, girlfriend, Charlotte. Her granddaughters Nina Flanagan, Bailey Puckett and boyfriend, Cody Carter. She loved Cody, Charlotte and her sons, Donovan, Ethan, Eli, Jedi and Jax like they were her own. She also leaves behind her children’s father, Bill Flanagan and his girlfriend Lisa, so many sweet cousins, and many, many friends. Her cousins, Linda Christian Vinklarek and Debby Ownby Myer, were like sisters to her. She truly cherished their families, and childhood memories that turned into lifelong friendships. She is preceded in death by her loving parents, Joyous Louise Wood and Harvey Marvin Christian, friend Kenneth Little and son Kevin, and so many aunts and uncles, cousins, and friends. She was a beloved daughter, mother, grandmother, and cousin. She was absolutely adored by her entire family and will live in our hearts and memories forever. All her life, she was a devout Christian who lived her faith every day and was a wonderful example to all who knew her. She served the Lord in every way she could, and it was very evident. She was, is, and will always be a blessing to our lives! She was a “Victorious” Christian, true to her name! Our sweet Mama… go live, live, live in Heaven! You are missed, so dearly! Arrangements were entrusted to McWilliams Funeral Home, Hempstead. A Celebration of Life service will be held at a later date.
Johnnie B. Whiteley III, 76, of Hockley, Texas passed away Sunday, February 25, 2024 at his home. He was born January 21, 1948 to Johnnie B. Whiteley II and Paula Lorene Clancy Whiteley in Longview, Texas. He is survived by his wife Sherry Whiteley, children: Johnnie B. Whiteley IV and wife Mayra, Katie Mushinski and husband Jason, James Youngblood, Tammy Hunter and husband Jason Strelow; sister Jennifer Carlton, and six grandchildren: Sara and Ellie Whiteley, Augustus and Annastyn Mushinski, Austin and Abigail Hunter. He is also survived by his nephews Jason Whiteley, Adam Whiteley and Brian Carlton as well as his nieces Frances Currie and Stephanie Long and their families. Visitation: Thursday, February 29, 2024 from 4:30 pm until 6:30 pm at Champion Cowboy Church, 27633 FM 1488, Hockley, Texas 77447. Funeral Service: Friday, March 1, 2024 at 10:00 am at Champion Cowboy Church. Burial following at Guedry Cemetery, Batson, Texas with Pastor Gene Johnson officiating under the direction of McWilliams Funeral Home, Hempstead. Pallbearers: Johnnie B Whiteley IV, Augustus Mushinski, Austin Hunter, Adam Whiteley, Brian Carlton, and Jason Whiteley. Honorary Pallbearers: Walter Stewart and David Ryza. The family asks in lieu of flowers to donate to Johnnie B Whiteley III Scholarship Fund to continue Johnnie’s legacy of generosity and educational opportunity.
Jorge Luis Gonzalez, 37, passed away Tuesday, February 20, 2024. He was born May 18, 1986 to Gustavo Gonzalez and Lucilia Rodriguez in Guanajuato, Mexico. He is survived by his father Gustavo Gonzalez, mother Lucila Rodriguez Martinez, wife Adilene Gonzalez, sons: Sebastian Vega, Alexandro Sanchez, and Jorge Yulian Gonzalez, daughters Yaneli Gonzalez and Yoletsy Gonzalez, brother Ivan Gonzalez, and sisters Isaura Gonzalez and Cecilia Gonzalez. Funeral Service: Wednesday, February 28, 2024 at 11:00 am at St. Katharine Drexel Church, Hempstead with Father Xavier Bilavendiran under the direction of McWilliams Funeral Home, Hempstead. Burial will follow in Guanajuato, Mexico.
Alnetta Jean Jones, 66, of Hempstead, Texas passed away Saturday, February 3, 2024. She was born December 31, 1957 to Joe Nathan Terry and Margaret Jones Terry in Houston, Texas. She is preceded in death by her father Joe Nathan Terry, brother Londell Jones, and son Joel Jones. Alnetta is survived by her husband Sherwood Jones, mother Margaret Terry, son Reginald Jones and 10 grandchildren. Private Burial Services were entrusted to McWilliams Funeral Home, Hempstead.
Joy Elaine Bibby-Heath, 95, went to be with her Lord and Savior on Friday, February 2, 2024.
Joy was born on April 21, 1928, in Texas to Marcelas Bascom Bibby and Wilton Brownlee Bibby. Joy married Orley Heath in 1946. The two were each other’s lifelong companions and best friend. They were blessed with three children: Gary, Cindy, and Genie. Her faith in God and love for her family were the most important things in her life. On September 19, 1957, Joy was saved and committed her life to the Lord. She was a God fearing woman with a devout faith. Joy loved spreading the word of God and did so until her last days. Joy is well-known for her famous Christmas dinners, shouting to the top of her lungs to root on her beloved Astros, and her entertaining Facebook posts. She touched the lives of all she met and did just as her name says, spread Joy. Joy is preceded in death by her parents, Marcelas Bascom Bibby and Wilton Brownlee Bibby; Husband, Orley Heath; and seven brothers and sisters. She is survived by her sister, Imajo Bibby; children, Genie (John) Howard, Cindy Heath, and Gary Heath; seven grandchildren, Austin (Sissy) Howard, Kevin (Jadie) Howard, Taylor (Blake) Duncan, Matthew Heath, Crystal Fontenot, Gary Jr. Heath, & Michael Heath; seventeen great-grandchildren, Kayden, Kolby, Karson, Brooklyn, Paisley, Whitney, Kynlee, Teagan, Tanner, Nathan, Presley, Sophia, Amber, Jordan, Michael, Gabriel, Christian, and Amber.
Graveside Service: Saturday, February 10, 2024, at 10:00 am at Fieldstore Cemetery in Waller, Texas with Pastor Jonelle Hammack officiating under the direction of McWilliams Funeral Home, Hempstead.
William Andrew “Bill” Jones, 91, died peacefully on Friday, February 2, 2024 in Tomball, Texas with his son Tim Jones and grandsons Kenneth and Glen Jones by his side. He was born January 10, 1933 to Claude Jones and Ada Clepper Jones in Fieldstore, Texas. Bill is preceded in death by his parents Claude and Ada Jones, brothers Wade, CJ, Adrian, Henery, and Clelin Jones; sisters: Ruby Durant, Katie Toups, and Earlene Light; son Micheal Jones, and baby girl Jones. He is survived by his son Tim Jones and wife Julie, sisters Claudie Wilcox and Geraldine Riels, grandsons: Kenneth Jones, Timothy Jones, Jr., and Glen Jones; and great-grandchildren: Gina Jones, Emily Jones, Andrew Jones, Cody Jones, Mackenzie Jones, and Rylee Jones. Arrangements were entrusted to McWilliams Funeral Home, Hempstead.
Miriam Edith Scroggins Frazier-Shipley, born on July 18, 1926 in the Fieldstore Community, peacefully passed away in the early morning hours of Friday, February 2, 2024. She is preceded in death by husbands Billie F. Frazier and Larry Eugene Shipley, children: Miriam Elaine Mikolajewski, Jesse Wayne (Pete) Frazier, Glen Terry Frazier, Cynthia Ann Fritzsching, and David Jeffrey Frazier. She is survived by her son Billy R. Frazier, and daughters Betty Jean Bierod and Mittie Charlene Todaro. Edith Frazier was the matriarch to the long-established Hempstead family business, Frazier’s Ornamental and Architectural Concrete. She loved dancing, painting, and sculpting. She was an avid member of the Hempstead Art League. She enjoyed fishing at her Mabank lakeside retreat. She loved playing slot machines in various locales and her Hempstead home was our family center for all holidays and festive occasions. Visitation: Thursday, February 8, 2024 from 9:00 am until 11:00 am at McWilliams Funeral Home, Hempstead. Funeral Service: Thursday, February 8, 2024 at 11:00 am at McWilliams Funeral Home. Burial following at Old Salem Cemetery, Hempstead, TX with Brother Philip “Deke” McWilliams officiating.
Eddie Schkade, 62, went to be with the Lord on January 25, 2024, at his home in Hempstead, Texas. He was born on September 22, 1961, in Houston Texas to Edward and Mona Schkade. He was a skilled machinist his entire career. He was an avid outdoorsman with his two favorite places being his farm and the beach. In his free time, he enjoyed fishing, woodworking, welding, and working on his farm. He loved caring for his cows, horses, and the various wild animals that would visit like deer and cardinals. He is preceded in death by his father, Edward Schkade, and survived by his mother, Mona Schkade; his daughter Lacie Housel and her husband Adam; his daughter Stephanie Schkade; his sister Donna Schkade; and his grandsons Austin and Weston Housel. He will be greatly missed by all. Eddie’s celebration of life will begin with a visitation on Saturday, February 3rd, 2024 from 10:00 until 11:00 at McWilliam’s Funeral Home, 706 Bremond St., Hempstead, TX 77445 and the service will begin at 11:00 with Pastor David Cecil officiating.
Kenneth LaRue Smith passed away on Monday January 22, 2024, at the age of 87. He is preceded in death by his Father St. Elmo Lawrence Smith and Mother Letha Armer Smith and his grandson Brian Christopher Smith. Kenneth is survived by his loving wife of 63 years Estella Smith, son Mark Smith and wife Sharon, daughter Candy Hightower, sister Lisa Clepper Hall, grandchildren: Melissa Smith Wynne and husband Eric, Kaitlyn Hightower Repka and husband Tyler, Jared Smith, Blake Smith, and Mikayla Hightower, and great grand-children: Bryce Smith, Kylee Smith, Micheal Wynne, and Alice Repka. Kenneth joined the Houston Police Department as a clerk in the accident division in June of 1955, and He began his law enforcement career in April of 1958 in academy class #18. He met the love of his life Estella who was working as clerk in the records division in March of 1960. The two married in October of 1960. In October of 1976 he became Captain of the Houston Crime and Information Center, later transferring to Recruiting. He retired in April of 1983. Kenneth was a lover of antiques, especially old cars and had quite the collection. He owned everything from Cadillac LaSalle’s to Studebaker’s. Mom often joked and said her only competition for dad was if it had wheels. Kenneth became a member of the Hempstead Church of Christ in 1967 and served in various roles from elder to song leader. Kenneth was a Mason for over 59 years. Kenneth was a loving husband, father and friend to all who knew him, and he will be surely missed. We won’t say goodbye, we will merely say see you later. Visitation: Tuesday, January 30, 2024 from noon until 2:00 pm at Hempstead Church of Christ. Funeral Service: Tuesday, January 30, 2024 at 2:00 pm at Hempstead Church of Christ with Pastor Kris Moore officiating under the direction of McWilliams Funeral Home, Hempstead. Burial following at Shiloh Cemetery, Hempstead, Texas.
On January 20, 2024 Dolly Dale Orr (Oldham) passed away peacefully in her home at the age of 82 in Hempstead, Texas. Dale was born in Miller, Oklahoma on March 6, 1941. Dale married Daniel Orr in Juarez, Mexico on September 21, 1964. She followed the love of her life to Carlsbad, New Mexico then to Cypress, Texas. In 1972, they decided to settle in Hempstead to raise their family and Dale has resided there since. Dale was a proud tribal member of the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma. As a young adult, Dale was an owner and oil painting teacher at Village Art in Jersey Village. She was a professional artist and won several awards around Waller County for her work. She retired from the U.S. Department of Commerce as a census worker. She is known for her beauty, artistic abilities, and intelligence. In her spare time, she loved studying genealogy, dominating jigsaw puzzles, growing plants, and talking politics with her grandchildren. Dale leaves behind her daughter, Deidra Orr, 7 grandchildren, and 18 great-grandchildren. She was a shining light in all of their lives that will be forever missed. She was preceded in death by her husband, Daniel Orr, daughter, Truby Roxanne Weaver, parents, Lester and Opal Oldham, and three brothers, Billy Harold, Troy Lee, and Carl Albert Oldham. Visitation: Saturday, January 27, 2024 from 9:00 am -10:00 am at McWilliams Funeral Home, Hempstead. Funeral Service: Saturday, January 27, 2024 at 10:00 am at McWilliams Funeral Home. Officiating: Brother Philip “Deke” McWilliams. Private burial following the service.
Kenneth Ray Miller, Sr., 82, of Hempstead, Texas passed away Wednesday, January 3, 2024 in Cypress, Texas. He was born March 25, 1941 to Clyde Emmet Miller and Dora Mae Prichett Miller in Gadsden, Alabama. Ray is preceded in death by his first wife, Barbara Ann Miller, and his second wife, Lillian Joyce King Miller. He is survived by his son Kenneth Ray Miller, Jr., daughter Donna Marie Enciu, step-sons Daniel Ross Wier and Scott Morgan Wier, nine grandchildren and one great-grandchild. Memorial Services will be held Saturday, January 13, 2024 at 1:00 pm at McWilliams Funeral Home, Hempstead with Brother Philip “Deke” McWilliams officiating.
Shirley Wagner, age 87 of Hempstead, Texas passed away on January 2, 2024 in College Station, Texas. Shirley was born on May 19, 1936 to Fritz and Maggie Lanik Schulte in Hallettsville, Texas. She graduated from Waller High School in 1955. She married Albert Cooke on September 16, 1955 and he preceded her in death on April 18, 1975. She married Clarence Wagner on March 5, 1999 and he preceded her in death on April 1, 2015. Shirley was a retired bookkeeper and floral designer. She loved her grandchildren and step grandchildren and enjoyed crocheting, bingo, fishing, and playing cards with her family especially her grandchildren. She was a lady with many talents including floral design, sewing, crochet beautiful dolls and angels and was an avid bowler for many years. Shirley is survived by her son, Lloyd Cooke and wife Cheryl of Hempstead; daughter, Cindy Jones and husband Al of Hempstead; two sisters, Dorothy White of Birch Run, Michigan and Patsy Farrington and husband Abe of Whitewright; sister-n-laws, Dorothy Cooke of Hempstead, Carol Hohlt of Hempstead, and Janice Cooke of Cypress; 2 step children Gary Wagner and wife Linda of Brenham, Becky Exner and husband Rodney of Lexington; step daughter-in-law Cindy Hart and husband Tommy; grandchildren, Jenny Arnold and husband Jason, Chris Blazek and wife Andrea, Kathryn Austin and husband Casey, and Steven Blazek and wife Christina; step grandchildren Brandon Exner and wife Heather, Alisa Niemeyer and Will Winkelman, Cullen Wagner, Dustin Exner, Erin Pepper and husband Tim, Cameron Wagner and wife Shanna, Billy Jones, and Jon Jones and wife Caroline; 24 great grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews. Special adopted niece and nephew Abbey and Austin Nebalek and Special friend Julie Wantland. She was preceded in death by her first husband Albert Cooke, step son Gregory Wagner, nephew Grayson Cooke, and husband Clarence Wagner, brother-n-laws Johnny Cooke, Raymond Cooke and Harry White. The Celebration of Life Service is scheduled for Saturday, January 27, 2024 at 10:00 AM at Bethlehem Lutheran Church in Round Top Memorial contributions may be made to the Bethlehem Lutheran Church in Round Top, First United Methodist Church in Hempstead or the charity of your choice.