Florence Elizabeth Brown Foley of Alpine passed with peace and grace on Sunday, February 26, 2017.  She was 95 years of age.

Viewing will be at Alpine Memorial Funeral Home, 209 W. Sul Ross Ave., from 6-7pm Friday, March 3. Funeral service is 10am Saturday, March 4 at the First Baptist Church, 203 N. 4th St. in Alpine with graveside services to follow in Elm Grove Cemetery.

Mrs. Foley was a longtime resident of Alpine and was a Baptist by faith. She will always be remembered as a caring mother, grandmother and great grandmother whose greatest passions were love, service and hospitality to others.

She was born December 17, 1921 in Del Rio, Texas to Allen DeWitt and Lillie Christina Andersen Brown.  She and her older brother Herbert were the third generation of a Texas ranching family.  She grew up in and around Sanderson, Texas, and was 8 years old when agricultural prices began to crash downwards into the Great Depression.  She learned to drive at a young age and loved to chauffeur her father out to the ranch.  In high school, she especially enjoyed elocution classes and serving as a cheerleader with her future sister in law, Chich Canon.  Following graduation as Valedictorian of her class of 14 from Sanderson High School in 1939, she enrolled at Baylor University in Waco, Texas. Elizabeth completed her Bachelor’s Degree in Business at Baylor in 1943, amidst the turmoil of World War II.

She “ran” the Texas and New Orleans Railroad in San Antonio, and El Paso, Texas, while many of their male employees were fighting overseas.  Later she worked various jobs in Cloudcroft, New Mexico; Evergreen, Colorado; and New York City.  Her desire to work as a professional woman around the country rather than marry at an early age was a strong indication of her adventurous spirit. She loved experiencing new cultures and had traveled to Europe, Asia, South America and Australia.

She also worked for several petroleum companies in the Permian Basin, and met Edward Foley, an International Petroleum Geologist for Standard Oil of New Jersey in Roswell, New Mexico.  The two were married in San Juan, Puerto Rico, in 1954, when Elizabeth was 33, and over the next several years resided in Jusepin, Caracas, and Maracaibo, Venezuela.

In 1959 the family moved back to Texas and established their family home in Alpine, where Elizabeth lived until her death.

Elizabeth was a member and officer of the General Federation of Women’s Clubs (for which she received a 50-year service award), an active volunteer with the Girl Scouts, Alpine Public Library, Sunshine House, Big Bend Regional Medical Center Hospital Auxiliary. She was a longtime member, teacher, leader and supporter of First Baptist Church in Alpine, and was also a founding member of one of the first Baptist churches in Venezuela.  Elizabeth had attended Paisano Baptist Encampment since childhood, and was a lifelong benefactor of Baptist ministries. She continued to support Baylor University, and subtlety influenced all of her children to enroll at that same Baptist college.

Elizabeth’s faith was extremely important to her, and even in her last few years while suffering from dementia, she was able to voice a daily prayer of thanksgiving reflecting the deep seated belief that she held in God.  She also continued to sing along with favorite hymns and “I’ve been working on the Railroad” (because she had).

Elizabeth is survived by three loving children; Denis Foley and wife Rozolen of Alpine, Nina Foley of Alpine, and Patrick Foley and wife Lisa of Plano; 8 grandchildren, 4 great-grandchildren, 2 nieces, and her loving caregiver of many years, Teresa Morgan.  Elizabeth also had many, many friends throughout Texas and the United States.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Edward; her brother, Herbert Brown; and 1 niece, Diane Brown Ketzler.

In lieu of floral arrangements, memorial donations can be made to: the Alpine Public Library, Paisano Baptist Encampment or the Chihuahuan Desert Research Institute.

TJ Yancy with April the mule

In the early hours of March 1, 2017, TJ Yancy passed from this world into the next.

Born in 1935, TJ was unusually small and was not expected to live through his first night. Rather than naming him Thomas Jefferson as they had planned, his parents put him in a shoebox on the oven door and simply called him TJ.

He did survive, and after high school went on to earn a full scholarship to Southwest Texas Junior College in Uvalde, as a competitor on their Rodeo Team. He traveled all over the Midwest, riding broncs and bulls, while completing his degree.

In 1954 he married Patricia Kelley, and they had two children, Sheryle Elaine and Fred Jay. They lived in Rocksprings, Texas, and for many years TJ was the manager at Asgro Feed Mill there.

He was always a hard worker, and he installed lights around his horse pens so that when he got home at night, he could ride and train outside horses for extra income for his young family.

Later he moved to San Antonio where he owned and operated several feed stores around the outskirts of the city, including Leon Springs, Helotes and Bracken.

Twenty-one years ago, TJ leased the former Montgomery Ranch near Casa Piedra, south of Marfa, and he greatly enjoyed his life of ranching and riding and living there.

All of his friends will agree that TJ was one of the most gentle and kind people they have ever known. He was always good to his animals, and generous with people. He loved his dogs and his horses, and in return was loved by them, and by his many friends and admirers.

Ernest Leos, 62, of Marfa died Saturday, March 4, 2017 at his home.

He was born on August 31, 1954 in Marfa and was a lifelong Marfa resident.

Mr. Leos was a U.S. Army veteran.

Survivors include his mother, Manuela Leos of Marfa, his daughter Beatrice Leos of Pecos, and a son, Bobby Joe Leos of Midland. He is also survived by a sister, Maria Anita Benavides of Marfa; two brothers Pete Leos of Marfa and Eduardo “Lalo” Leos of Odessa.

He was preceded in death by his father, Manuel Leos, and brother, Manuel Leos Jr.

Mr. Leos is also survived by six grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.

A memorial service for Mr. Leos will be set at a later date.

Joe “Pepe” Valenzuela, 68, of Alpine, TX passed away on February 27, 2017 in Odessa, TX.

Rosary and Visitation will be on Thursday, March 9, 2017 at 7 p.m. at his childhood home, 505 South 4th St, Alpine, TX

Funeral services will be held on Friday, March 10, 2017 at 10 a.m. at Our Lady of Peace Catholic Church with the Rev. Robert S. Kobe, Pastor officiating.

Burial will follow at Holy Angels Cemetery. Celebration of Joe’s life will follow with a reception at Our Lady of Peace Catholic Church parish hall, 406 South 6th St., Alpine, Texas. Arrangements are by Odessa Funeral Home.

Joe “Pepe” was born to the late Manuel and Jesusita Valenzuela on July 18, 1948. He went to school at Alpine High School. He graduated from Sul Ross State University, summa cum laude, moved to California and graduated from the University of Southern California with a Master’s in Business Administration

He was a business owner as a graphic designer for Pepe’s T-Shirts for over 25 years.

He served in the United States Army veteran during the Vietnam War.

He was a lifelong communicant of the Catholic Church.

He always listened to people, never left anyone out, and had a real passion and very kind and gentle soul; he had a loving and generous heart, and was always giving to others. He truly lived life to the fullest through simple pleasures; chatting with friends, and family. He understood his customers; he made friends of them by being both courteous and obliging. He had an uncanny ability to reach people in a deep and positive way.

His sister Julia, brother Manuel Jr. and his parents Manuel and Jesusita Valenzuela, precedes Joe “Pepe” in death.

Joe “Pepe” is survived by George Valenzuela of Alpine, Alfonso Valenzuela of Andrews, Gilberto, Reymundo Valenzuela of Odessa and 110 nieces, nephews, great nieces, great nephews, cousins and amazing friends.

Pallbearers will be Alfonso Valenzuela Jr., Gilbert Valenzuela Jr., Reymundo Valenzuela Jr., Ricky Valenzuela, Rudy & Robert Sandoval.

The family of Joe “Pepe” Valenzuela wishes to extend their sincere thanks and appreciate all family, friends, and community for their support.

Arrangements under the direction of Odessa Funeral Home, Odessa, TX.

Jim Sage

James Sherman “Jim” Sage of Alpine passed away Friday, March 3, 2017.

A celebration open house of Jim’s life will be held at his home in the South Double Diamond from 2-4pm Saturday, March 18.

Jim was born on a farm in Boyd, Montana on December 8, 1926, the son of James “Art” and Mabel Sage. Jim was loved from day one. His mother, Mabel, wrote in his baby book on March 28, 1929, “Jimmie laughed out loud several times while Mother and Grandma Sage were playing with him. Sounded like angels playing their harps.”

Jim graduated from Grossmont High School, San Diego, California and then enlisted in the Army Air Force at the end of World War II and was stationed in Adak, Arkansas. After the war, he returned to Billings, Montana where his parents and sister lived. On June 2, 1950, he married Frances Kellogg Sage and they had two children, Steve and Sandy. Jim and Fran had been married 66 years.

In 1966 the family moved to Austin so he and Fran could pursue degrees from the University of Texas. After receiving his BA and MA, he found employment as the Foreign Student Advisor at St. Edward’s University. He went above and beyond to help the students and enjoyed learning about all parts of the world. Eventually, he took on a second job with Austin Community College.

Both he and Fran loved the Big Bend area of West Texas and retired to the Alpine area in 1995. They felt fortunate to have been able to have a house built with a wonderful view of Cathedral Mountain in the South Double Diamond. In fact, Jim loved this area so much that he entitled the book he wrote, “Living in Paradise, Essays from the Chihuahuan Desert.”

Jim was known for his smile, his kind spirit, and his appreciation of nature. He was active in community affairs, a lover of art, a book reader, and co-founder with his wife Fran of the Big Bend group of the Sierra Club.

As Jim was gradually slipping away from us, his friend wrote to him one day, “I guess you’re feeling like my grandmother did when she was your age, like you’re sitting on your suitcase by the side of the dusty road, waiting for the bus to come pick you up and take you away from this world to whatever is next. I can understand that, but this world will be a poorer place without you, and we will miss you!”

Survivors include his wife, Fran Sage; daughter Sandy Sage, Alpine; son Steve Sage, Austin; grandson Sam Lamport, Portland Oregon; and niece Lynn Clifford (Gary), The Woodlands, Texas.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Art and Mabel Sage; his sister, Roberta Abel; and his beloved cat, Felina.

Without the love and support of their friends and the community, Jim and Fran wouldn’t have been able to continue living in their home after their health declined. The family requests in lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Big Bend Conservancy, http://www.bigbendfriends.org.

Jim asked his daughter Sandy to share one of his favorite poems at his passing. It is by his favorite painter, Maynard Dixon. “At last, I shall give myself to the desert again that I, in its golden dust, may be blown from a barren peak broadcast over the sun-lands. If you should desire some news of me go ask the little horned toad whose home is in the dust or seek it among the fragrant sage, or question the mountain juniper and by their silence they will truly inform you.”

Lucy Miller Jacobson

Lucy Miller Jacobson, “Lady” to her family, the youngest child of Clay Espy Miller and Lucy Foster Miller, passed away in her home on March 2, 2017, Texas Independence Day, after a long illness.

She was born November 18, 1935 in Fort Davis.

She left Fort Davis her junior year of high school to attend North Texas State University in 1953. She then transferred to the University of Texas in Austin in 1955, where she met her future husband, J.W. “Jake” Jacobson.

After they were married in 1956, they moved to Pittsburg, Pennsylvania, and a year later to Southern California where they raised their family, and her husband worked as a mechanical engineer. She was a devoted wife, wonderful mother, and a cherished grand and great-grandmother.

While raising her children, she attended Long Beach State University on and off for several years, to finally earn a Bachelor of arts degree in English with a minor in history in 1965.

She was a Girl Scout leader for 14 years for her daughters’ troops, and served as the neighborhood chairman for the Girl Scouts’ organization for many years.

In 1983, she returned to Fort Davis to help care for her mother.

In Fort Davis, she worked as clerk, or election judge for almost every election in her precinct for many years and maintained an interest in politics at all levels.

She was a talented creator of arts and crafts, handmade dolls and pottery.  She was an accomplished seamstress, making her own wedding gown, her attendants’ gowns, and both of her daughters’ wedding gowns. Over the years, she also made an array of costumes for herself, children and granddaughters to enjoy.

She had a small part in the movie Dancer, Texas Pop 81, filmed in Fort Davis.

She studied history and archaeology all her life, and was a prolific reader. She loved gardening, and had a wonderful green thumb. She also enjoyed music, cats and camping.

Like her brother Clay, she was a repository of stories and genealogy, for a wide-ranging family, tracing lineage back to signers of the Magna Carta and farther back where she could. Like her mother before her, she collected all her genealogy research in notebooks of typed monographs that she copied for all her extended family members and they treasure them greatly to this day.

Her crowning achievement, after ten years of work, was writing Jeff Davis County, Texas; the history of Jeff Davis County published in 1994. Referred to as the “Big White Book,” it contains a synopsis of the history of the Old Fort and the community and histories of the many families that lived in the county in its first 100 years. Mildred Bloys Nored, Pansy Evans Espy and others helped her with it. Copies reside in major libraries around the country.

She was often called on to research, or verify, some event or person in history and could always refer people to other places to find answers. She transferred her love of genealogy to her children, nieces and cousins.

She was a member of the Daughters of the American Revolution, the Daughters of the Republic of Texas and the Fort Davis Historical Society.

She is survived by her daughter, Ionia “Liz” J DeVol of Arizona; a son, Dave E. Jacobson of Fort Davis; granddaughters Sarah DeVol Mahoney and Kimberly DeVol Luttschwager; great-granddaughters Saundra Cullum and Bonnie Luttschwager; sisters-in-law JoEllen “Jody” Miller of Valentine and Theda Jacobson of California; and her brother-in-law, Leon Geddis Byerley Jr. of Midland.

She was preceded in death by her father, Clay Espy Miller Sr.; her mother, Lucy Foster Miller; her daughter, Annette Jacobson Beverburg; her husband, J.W. “Jake” Jacobson; her sister, Mary Elizabeth Byerley; and just recently, her brother, Clay Espy Miller Jr.

A memorial service will be at 2pm Saturday, March 25 at the Jeff Davis County Fire Hall in Fort Davis. A reception will follow at the home of Larry and Beth Francell, 109 N. Buckeye in Fort Davis.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Jeff Davis County Ambulance Replacement Fund, PO Box 1063, Fort Davis, TX 79734.

Rodolfo “Rudy” Herrera, 63, of Alpine and formerly of Marfa, went to join his mother in heaven on February 26, 2017 at Midland Memorial Hospital.

Services are 9:30am Saturday, March 11 at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Marfa.

Rudy was born December 6, 1953 in Marfa and raised in Marfa, the oldest of eight siblings. He attended St. Mary’s Catholic School and graduated from Marfa High School in 1971.

He moved to Alpine in 1978 to become the first Hispanic loan officer for the First National Bank, now West Texas National Bank.

In 2001, Rudy graduated with his Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from Sul Ross State University, alongside his youngest sibling, Joe, 24 years in age apart. In 2005, Rudy went on to earn his Master’s degree in Business Administration.

He then continued on to a new profession in which he grew to love, becoming a teacher for the Presidio Independent School District in 2006. He had a passion for teaching and guiding high school seniors to prepare them for life as young adults. The bonds he made with his students and fellow staff kept him at his happiest.

Rudy also had many hobbies and crafts he proudly honed that included carpentry, masonry, gardening, playing golf with his friends, camping and fishing along the Rio Grande, and lastly, he enjoyed digging throughout West Texas for his abundant, rare bottle collection.

Unfortunately in 2012, Rudy had to put aside his passion for teaching and his hobbies due to becoming blind.

He is survived by his two children, daughter Leticia Church and husband Russell of Del Rio, and his son, Louis Herrera of Fort Stockton; his father, Ventura Herrera of Austin; his sisters, Conchita Vasquez and husband Loretto of Marfa, Sara Ontiveroz and husband Glenn, also of Marfa; Corina Herrera of Alpine; and Nora Herrera Alvarez of Austin; his brothers, Benjamin Herrera and wife Sarah of Odessa, Ernest Herrera and wife Diana of Alice, Texas, and Joe Herrera of San Antonio; his grandchildren, Blaine, Scarlet, and Tyler Church of Del Rio, and Jaren Herrera of Fort Stockton; also many more family members, including numerous cousins, nieces, and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Luz Villanueva Herrera.

Rudy had tremendous help and care from family and friends while dealing with his blindness and declining health, including Nancy Dominguez of Alpine, Gloria Gallego of Alpine, Linda Carmon of Alpine, Ysmael and Sylvia Rangel of Fort Stockton, Joe Rivera of Fort Stockton, his brother Benjamin Herrera, his childhood friend and brother-in-law Loretto Vasquez, and his son, Louis Herrera.

Diamantina “Diane” Espinoza

Diamantina “Diane” Espinoza, 66, of Alpine, passed away at her residence on Monday, February 27, 2017.

She was born in Alpine on January 4, 1951 to Isidoro and Virginia Dominguez. She was a homemaker.

She is survived by her husband, J.J. Espinoza of Alpine; her daughters, Janice (David) Valenzuela of El Paso, Karen (Pete) Ramirez of Midland, and Lisa Espinoza of Fort Collins, Colorado; her grandchildren, Jason, Kevin and Lesli Ramirez; her sister, Bernice Portillo of San Angelo; her brothers, Leo Dominguez and Tommy Dominguez, both of Alpine; also numerous nieces and nephews and her special friends Oralia Timmons and Elidia Garza.

The Rosary and Mass of Christian Burial were the morning of Saturday, March 4 at Our Lady of Peace Catholic Church in Alpine. Graveside service was in Holy Angels cemetery. Fr. Robert S. Kobe officiated.

Pallbearers are Jason Ramirez, David Thomas Dominguez, Steven Rodriguez, Vicente Molinar, Chris Garza, Marc Chavarria. Honorary pallbearer is Kevin Ramirez.

Alpine Memorial Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Robert James Waller

Robert James Waller, whose romantic novel “The Bridges of Madison County” became a runaway best seller on its publication in 1992 and the basis of a popular film, died Friday, March 10, 2017 at his home in Fredericksburg, Texas. He was 77, according to the New York Times.

The cause was multiple myeloma, his daughter, Rachael Waller, said.

Seeking solitude after his meteoric fame, Waller moved to a ranch near Alpine, where he lived for several years.

The high desert country provided the setting for his novels, “Puerto Vallarta Squeeze: The Run for el Norte” (1995) and “Border Music” (1995). Both sold well.

“Bridges” leapt to the top of the best-seller lists and stayed there, eventually outselling “Gone With the Wind.” It took root on The New York Times list and remained there for three years, becoming, as Entertainment Weekly put it, “The Book That Would Not Die.”

The film, released in 1995, starred Meryl Streep and Clint Eastwood and was directed by Mr. Eastwood. It was also reincarnated as a Broadway musical in 2014, starring Kelli O’Hara and Steven Pasquale.

Survivors include his daughter, Rachel Waller of Alpine; his wife, Linda Bow, formerly of Alpine, a granddaughter; and his former wife, Georgia Wiedemeier Waller, also of Alpine.

Mary Neilson

Mrs. Mary Alice R. Neilson, a longtime Fort Davis resident for many years, passed away at Medical Center Hospital in Odessa on March 9, 2017.

She was born December 29, 1923 in Antigo, Wisconsin to Richard and Roseanna (Kramer) Hugunin, attended St. John Parochial School, graduated from Antigo High School in 1942, and married John M. Neilson February 22, 1947 in Delafield, Wisconsin.

For many years she and her husband resided in Waukesha, Wisconsin. After retiring they moved to Fort Davis in 1972, built a home on Cemetery Road, and took an active part in the community.

Mary Alice was an accomplished photographer, utilizing the dramatic landscape of the area to capture pictures of clouds, flowers, birds, and the variety of sky conditions, most often from the view of their Fort Davis home. She was a past president of the Kate Hoffman Art Association and a member of St. Joseph Catholic Church.

Survivors include sister-in-law Ruby J. Neilson of Amarillo; nieces and nephews Dr. Christine Neuwirth of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Carol Neuwirth of Edina, Minnesota, Laurie Dellis of Amarillo, James Hugunin of Oak Park, Illinois, Dr. Kurt Neuwirth of Cincinnati, Ohio, Eric Neuwirth of Tuba City, Arizona, Col. Joseph Neuwirth of Ft. Hayes, Virginia, James R. Neilson of Orono, Minnesota, Neil Hubbard of Oconomowoc, Wisconsin, and numerous grand and great-grand nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, two infant sons, sister Patricia B. Neuwirth of Elcho, Wisconsin, and her brother, Gerald Hugunin of Chicago, Illinois.

Under the direction of Alpine Memorial Funeral Home, a Rosary and Mass were held at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Fort Davis with burial in Hillcrest Cemetery March 14 and 15. Memorials may be made to St. Joseph Catholic Church General Fund, PO Box 787, Fort Davis, TX 79734.

Celedonio Mediano

Celedonio Mediano, 93, of Marfa was embraced by our Lord Jesus on Saturday, March 11, 2017 in Pecos.

Rosary will be recited at 10am this morning, Thursday, March 16, followed by the Funeral Mass at 11am at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Marfa, officiated by Father Esteban Sescon.

Celedonio was born November 7, 1923 in Ruidosa, Texas to Ignacio Mediano and Ester Martinez. He married Adela Porras and they were blessed with two sons and three daughters.

He was a good husband, father and friend. He will be missed dearly but never forgotten. His legacy will live on with his children and grandchildren.

Those left to cherish his wonderful memories are his son, Alfredo Mediano Sr.; daughters, Maria Rivas and Rosa Chavez; a sister, Consuelo Parras; also 10 grandchildren, 16 great-grandchildren, and 3 great-great-grandchildren.

Celedonio is preceded in death by his wife, Adela Porras Mediano; parents, Ignacio and Ester Mediano; a son Celedonio Mediano Jr.; and a daughter Elia Mediano.

Pallbearers are Alfredo Mediano Jr., Eddie Mediano, Nacho Parras, Robert Silva, Augustine Nuñez, and Willie Watts. Honorary pallbearers are Ralph Mediano and Stephen Brunson.

Funeral arrangements are entrusted to Memorial Funeral Home of Fort Stockton.

Apolinar Delgadillo

Apolinar “Polly” Mendias Delgadillo, 90, passed away on Wednesday, March 8, 2017 in her Seligman, Arizona home.

She was born in Marfa on March 14 1926 to Apolonio Mendias and Ester Borunda.  She was the fifth of seven children. She was married to Joe V. Delgadillo of Seligman.  They would have been married for 70 years this year.

Polly was a very active woman in her community.  She and her husband were owners of several businesses in the Seligman area.

Survivors include her husband, Joe Delgadillo; a son, Joe Ernest Delgadillo and daughter in-law Patty of Boise, Idaho; a daughter, Anne Marie Gorman and son-in-law Rick of Seattle, Washington; four grandchildren, Jason, Melissa, Joseph, Vanessa, five great- grandchildren, Colby, Ava, Ila, Lilia and Campbell; a sister, Estefana M. Spitzer of Stanton and formerly of Marfa; a brother, Benjamin Mendias of Big Spring and formerly of Marfa; also several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents; brothers, Domingo and Ofelia Mendias of Van Horn, Enrique “Henry” and Margaret Mendias of San Antonio, sisters Mary Alice and Manuel Torres of Alpine, and Josephine and Ruben Rodriguez of Odessa.

Funeral services will be Saturday, March 18 at St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church in Seligman with the Rev. Fr. Kilian officiating.

A special thank you is extended to the Home Hospice nursing staff for their kindness and attention in caring for Polly.

David Buren

Longtime Marfa resident David Paul Buren, 61, passed away Monday, March 13, 2017 in Alpine.

Services for David will be held at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Marfa, Friday, March 17. Rosary service will be held at 1pm, followed by the Mass of Christian Burial. Graveside service will be held at a later date at the Calvary cemetery in San Angelo.

Buren had recently moved to Alpine.

Alpine Memorial Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

A memorial service for Lucy Miller Jacobson will be at 2pm Saturday, March 25 at the Jeff Davis County Fire Hall.

A reception will follow at the home of Larry and Beth Francell, 109 N. Buckeye, Fort Davis.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Jeff Davis County Ambulance Replacement Fund, PO Box 1063, Fort Davis, TX 79734.

Gloria Burgess

Gloria Burgess, 89, closed her eyes to her earthly home and opened them to a glories homecoming to her heavenly home on Friday, March 17, 2017, at her son’s home in El Paso, surrounded by her loving family. Gloria was a lifelong resident of Presidio County.

Rosary will be today, Thursday, March 23 at 7pm at Santa Teresa Catholic Church in Presidio, with Father Mike Alcuino. Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Friday, March 24 at 10am at the church, also officiated by Father Mike celebrating Mass. Burial will be in Desert Hills Cemetery.

Those serving as pallbearers are William Burgess, Oscar Cardiel, Carlos Nieto, Junie Herrera, Bob Loustaunau and Fred Herrera III.

Gloria was born on April 16, 1927 in Shafter to Federico Herrera and Elfida Fuentes. She grew up in Shafter, enjoying the beauty and nature of Presidio County as well as the surrounding areas of Big Bend National Park. Gloria was a graduate of Presidio High School.

As a young girl, Gloria enjoyed riding donkeys with her sister in the countryside and laughing with her. During her teen years, Gloria loved helping her Grandfather at the families’ meat marker Herrera’s in Presidio. Upon graduating from high school, she worked as a telephone operator in Presidio.

Gloria later went to work for several local department stores, until she found the enjoyment and satisfaction of working for Liz Fashions store in Presidio for 29 years, as well as working for MB’s Supermarket later in life.

Gloria was known for her ease in conversation and her love of the outdoors. She enjoyed spending time with the family and friends during cookouts and dances while on the family ranch in Shafter. Her love of Lawrence Welk and Mariachi music will forever live in the hearts of her family and friends. Gloria loved to dance and anyone who didn’t know how to dance, she would be very happy to teach them.

Gloria met and married the love of her life, George W. Burgess, on May 26, 1948 in Marfa.

Gloria and George raised their two dear children George Jr. and Beverly.

A woman of faith, and the heart of the Burgess family, Gloria shaped their spirituality by her tireless Christian example, and through various Catholic prayer groups, by serving as communion server and various activities. With a zest for life, Gloria loved to share the great outdoors with her family and friends.

Those that precede Gloria in death are: her husband George Burgess, Sr., her parents Federico and Elfida Herrera.

Those left to honor and cherish the wonderful memories of Gloria are her son, George W. Burgess Jr. and wife Gloria of El Paso; her daughter, Beverly B. Carrasco and husband Armando of Presidio; her sister, Margie Loustaunau of El Paso; her brother, Fred Herrera and wife Oralia of Andrews; also four grandchildren and four great-grandchildren as well as several nieces and nephews.

The Burgess family has entrusted the caring and dedicated staff of Alpine Memorial Funeral Home with professional services. Online condolences may be made at: www.alpinememorialfuneralhome.com.

Rodrigo Aguilar

Rodrigo Serrano Aguilar, 70, of Presidio passed away in Houston.

Funeral Mass will be held at noon Friday, March 24 in the Capilla de El Santo Ninio De Antocha in Canada Ancha, a suburb farming community west of Ojinaga, Chihuahua, Mexico. Burial will follow at El Cementerio El Ultimo Adios de Canada Ancha.

Rodrigo was born in Ojinaga to Juan Aguilar & Manuela Serrano on March 13, 1947. He went to school in Ojinaga. He married Armida Lujan Aguilar on September 10, 1979 in Ojinaga, and served as a police officer in Ojinaga for 20 years.

He is survived by his wife, Armida; and daughters Orbilia A. Carrasco and husband Ramon Carrasco of Andrews, Guadalupe A. Carrasco and husband Guillermo of Odessa; brothers Domingo Aguilar, Juan Aguilar, Rene Aguilar, Cesar Aguilar, Guadalupe Aguilar, Jorge Aguilar; sisters Elfida Juarez, Ludivina Tavarez, Marisela Aguilar, Edelmira Juarez and Elia Casillas; grandchildren Tahiri Carrasco, Karen Carrasco Yairily Carrasco & Yareimy Carrasco.

He was preceded in death by his father Juan and his mother Manuela Aguilar.

Earlier, visitation was held at Martinez Funeral Home the evening of Tuesday, March 21 with a Rosary; visitation continued Wednesday, March 22.

Services are entrusted to Martinez Funeral Home & Crematory, and Funeral Director Nancy Olvera & Joel Gonzalez.

Joseph Roger Williams

Joseph Roger Williams has passed away. Joe was born the first day of the year 1929 in DeLeon, Texas, the youngest of five, to Marguerite Jane Weaver and William Hudson Williams.

He grew up in Abilene, graduated from high school at New Mexico Military Institute and enrolled in the School of Architecture at the University of Texas in 1947. Plans changed and he received a Bachelor of Arts in History. He then became a cotton farmer for five years near Idalou, Texas.

After meeting and marrying Martha Anne Enochs in Lubbock, Texas in 1958 at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, they moved to Austin and he returned to studying architecture, earned his degree in 1963, and then started an architectural practice in Austin. He worked for five years (1967-1972) at the Office of Facilities, Planning & Construction of the UT system, becoming the Architect for Academic Institutions. He also worked for five years (1976-1981) as Director of the National Register for the Texas Historical Commission.

After family and the birth of his children, Joe maintained that the most thrilling times of his life occurred sitting at the drafting board; and that designing houses and additions to houses, especially the ranch houses so loved by his clients, was his pleasure and a rewarding legacy.

Joe is survived by his children, Margaret Catching Williams of Austin, Crawford Marginot and husband Billy of Marfa, Joseph Roger Williams Jr. and wife Norma of Austin, and Philip Enochs Williams and wife Bett of Columbia, South Carolina; his grandchildren, Joseph Williams, Rachel Anne Williams, Martha Williams, Charles Marginot, Catching Marginot, Brooks Marginot, and Stowe Williams.

Joe joined some special social and professional groups along the way; enjoyed playing bridge; and designed for himself, after Martha died in 1991, a summer home atop a mountain at Fort Davis, later an adobe hacienda in Marfa, and, last, a small townhouse in Austin, the latter so well located he could walk to the Dart Bowl to enjoy their excellent enchiladas.

Life isn’t tied with a bow, but it’s still a gift. In the event that someone feels the need to remember Joe, donate your spare parts to “Medicine” or give a nickel to some needy person…neither will hurt you.

A private service is planned.

. . . whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things . . .

Obituary and memorial guestbook available online at www.wcfish.com. Arrangements by Weed-Corley-Fish Funeral Home, Austin, (512) 452-8811.

David Buren

David Paul Buren, 61, of Alpine and formerly of Marfa, passed away at his home in Alpine on Monday, March 13, 2017.

He was born March 24, 1955 to Paul and Joan Buren in San Angelo, Texas. After graduating high school in Marfa, David helped with the family business. He was a beloved son, brother and doting uncle.

David was a friend to everyone he met, often walking around helping anyone who needed it or just stopping and saying, “Hello, how are you doing,” to everyone he met.

He is survived by his father, Paul and wife Brenda of Whitehorse, Canada; his brother Phillip and wife Kikki of Alpine; sisters, Ellen Melvin and husband Hammer, Katie Sanchez and Freddie of Marfa, and Susan and husband Larry of San Angelo, several nieces, nephews and great-nieces and great-nephews; also special friends, Fred Alvarez, Billie Gille, Dugie Vickers and Henry Klepec.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Joan Buren, and his brother, John Edward.

Rosary service and Mass of Christian burial were Friday, March 17 at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Marfa. A graveside service was Monday, March 20 at Calvary Cemetery in San Angelo.

Pallbearers are Clayton Yadon, Michael Melvin, Jason Luna, Eric Paez, Dugie Vickers, Matt Counts, and Henry Klepec. Honorary pallbearers are Fred Alvarez, Bob Johnson, and John Johnson.

Alpine Memorial Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Shield Diane Wilson passed away, March 7, 2017 at her home in Alpine.

She was born to Arthur and Betty Lincoln on February 14, 1953 in Michigan.

She graduated from Mt. Morris High School in Michigan and married Norman Wilson of Alpine on November 27, 1997.

Sheila worked many years as the Deputy Administrator of the former Alpine Valley Care Center where she truly loved the residents.

Sheila is survived by a sister, Audrey Stewart of Lubbock; a sister-in law, Linda McAnally of Alpine, and Ruth Ann Mote of Lubbock; a step- son, Norman Neal; also numerous nieces and nephews from Alpine, Lubbock and Amarillo.

The Wilson Family has entrusted Alpine Memorial Funeral Home with arrangements.

Online condolences may be left at www.alpinememorialfuneralhome.com.

Mary Marek

Mary Biediger Helm Marek, 81, died on April 11, 2017, in Midland, Texas, after a long illness.

She was born in Ysleta, Texas, on June 18, 1935. She moved to Marfa, Texas, as a young child, where she and her three brothers enjoyed life in a small town under the big sky of far west Texas. Mary maintained a home base in Marfa even after marrying and moving away.

Mary spent her adult life in West Texas and Eastern New Mexico. In addition to raising her three children, she worked as an executive assistant and, later, a teacher in Midland, Texas.

After achieving her bachelor’s and master’s degrees, Mary married a longtime family friend, Bruce Marek, of Pierce, Texas. Her new life on the farm in South Texas provided unending fun for her grandchildren. Mary met the world with vim and vigor every day, expecting adventure to happen. She was known for her hospitality to both friend and stranger.

Mary returned to Midland in the last two years of her life. Her sweet character shone through to everyone she encountered. Faith in a gracious God sustained her throughout her life. She embodied the call to be light and love in this world.

Mary is survived by her children and their spouses: Joy Helm Cobb, Steve Cobb, Ron Helm, Janet Gieb Helm, Joni Helm Powers and Tim Powers; Janice Marek Gensler and her husband Gary Gensler were caring stepchildren for almost 20 years; grandchildren include Naomi Cobb, Abby Cobb Christensen, Kevin Christensen, Zac Cobb, Hannah Powers and Kate Powers. She is also survived by numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.

She was predeceased in death by her husband, Bruce Marek. In addition, she was predeceased by her parents, Harold and Azile Biediger, and her brothers, Harold Biediger, Jr., Bill Biediger and Pat Biediger.

The family extends sincere thanks to the staff at the Bluebonnet Wing of the Mabee Center of Manor Park in Midland, Texas. Their loving care of Mary was unceasing. We honor the dedicated service the staff provided every single day.

A memorial service will be held at 10am on Saturday, April 15 in the chapel of the First Baptist Church of Midland, Texas. In lieu of flowers, the family asks donations be made to Hospice of Midland, 911 W. Texas, Midland, Texas 79701.

Arrangements are under the direction of Nalley-Pickle & Welch Funeral Home & Crematory of Midland.  Online condolences may be made at www.npwelch.com.