Hermie B. Dittman, 77, just two weeks shy of 78, passed away Saturday, July 22, 2017 in Big Lake.

She was born August 5, 1939 in Eldorado, Texas to Buren America and Zella Ophelia (Mercer) Whitten. She graduated from Eldorado High School in 1957 and married the love of her life Don Dittman in 1972.

Hermie was a loving mother and homemaker, she received first place in several quilting contests as well as sang in Christmas and Easter Cantatas. She was a member of the church choir, Happy Homemakers and the Dairy Queen bunch. 

Hermie was a Sunday school teacher for 30+ years at First Baptist Church in Big Lake. She loved sewing, quilting, embroidery and making blankets for others. 

Hermie was preceded in death by her parents; sister, Jonnie Mormon; and nephews, John Mormon and Tony Whitten.

Those left to cherish her memory are her husband, Don Dittman; son, Bob Davis and wife Gayla of Big Lake; daughter, Robin Russell and husband, Marty of Big Lake; daughter, Amber Stephenson and husband Clint of Liberty Hill; grandchildren, Parker Russell, Hayden Russell, Tucker Stephenson and

Payton Stephenson; brothers, B.A. (Ike) Whitten and wife Donna, Tom Whitten and wife Linda and W.W. (Buff) Whitten and wife Dawn; sister, Lisa Williams and husband Gary; and many nieces and nephews. 

Funeral service will be held at 10:00 a.m. Tuesday, July 25, 2017 at First Baptist Church in Big Lake with viewing to begin at 9:00 a.m. Pastor Gerald Bastin will officiate. Burial will follow in Glen Rest Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to First Baptist Church 510 E. 7th St, Big Lake, TX 76932 or Meals on Wheels of Big Lake.

Family and friends are encouraged to leave condolences online at www.johnsons-funeralhome.com 

Sarah Buford May, born September 11, 1925, went to be with her Lord August 11, 2017.

Sarah was born on September 11, 1925, on a farm in Hyman, Texas. Her parents were Henry Harrison VanZandt and Mary Gladys VanZandt. She lived on farms in Hyman and Spade, Texas and in 1937 moved to Tennyson, Texas.

In October of 1937 Sarah’s mother was commissioned as Postmaster of the post office at a general store they owned there in Tennyson. Gladys served as Postmaster until March 1943.

Sarah graduated from high school in Bronte, Texas. In 1944 Sarah married Douglas Buford. She lived in Bronte while he was in the Navy. She lived in many places and moved back to San Angelo in 1960. Three children were born to her and Douglas: Ronnie, Cheryl and Lana. 

Sarah was preceded in death by her parents, her daughter Cheryl, who died in 1962, and her brother and two sisters.

Survivors are; son,Ron Buford and wife Jeannie, daughter, Lana Jones and husband Gordon,five grandchildren; Rhonda Head and husband Jesse, Amy Pucel and husband Bobby, Brian Jones, Kimberly Jones, Wesley Jones and wife Mary Katherine, great grandchildren; Baylee and Abby Pucel, Kyler Jones and Grant Jones. Also one sister, Ina Jo Coyle of Yucca Valley, California, sister-in-law, Ernestine VanZandt and many nieces, nephews, first cousins and friends.

Sarah worked in the insurance business for twenty years for Schneeman Insurance Agency.

In November, 1975 Sarah married O.P. May. Sarah was a member of College Hills Baptist Church for more than 50 years, volunteering with Benevolence and Concho Valley for the Blind. She loved her church and Sunday School class.

She was an avid fan of the Dallas Cowboys having gone to two Super Bowls and attended over 30 Cowboy games. Some of her favorite people were John Wayne, Billy Graham, George Jones and Willie Nelson.

In her later years she learned to play Mahjong and became an avid player. She did her best to teach some of her family but just had too little to work with.

Sarah, known as “SaSa” to her family, loved God, her family, her friends and her church and of course her Dallas Cowboys!

A visitation will be held from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. Friday, August 18, 2017 at Johnson’s Funeral Home in San Angelo. Funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m. Saturday, August 19, 2017 at College Hills Baptist Church in San Angelo, with a graveside service to follow at 3:00 p.m. in Fairview Cemetery in Bronte.

Pallbearers will be her nephews: Ken VanZandt, Jack Corley, Larry Corley, Davis Corley, Melton Lowry, Jim Lowry and Jerry Lowry.

The family sends their sincere appreciation to all the staff of the Schleicher County Nursing Home in Eldorado and Kindred Hospice of San Angelo.

To College Hills Baptist Church, our family loves and appreciates all you have done for Sarah.

Family and friends are encouraged to leave condolences online at www.johnsons-funeralhome.com.

Juanita M. Arispe, 90, went home to her Lord on Wednesday, August 16, 2017, at her home surrounded by her family.

Funeral service to be held on August 19, 2017 at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church at 11 a.m. Burial to follow at Eldorado Cemetery. Grandsons of Juanita will serve as pallbearers: Mickey Romero, Joe Romero, Jorge Arispe Jr., Tim Vasquez, Scotty Espinosa, and John Ray Espinosa. Honorary pallbearers: Mark Cruz, Nestor Hernandez, Lorenzo Pina, Cole Pina, and Anthony Pina.

Juanita was preceded in death by her parents and two brothers and four sisters. Also preceded by her husband, Miguel Arispe, a granddaughter, Juanita Arispe, and sons-in-law, Ray and Hector Romero.

She was born to Leandro and Manuela Mendiola on October 2, 1926 in Eden, TX. She was raised in Mexico and then at the age of 20 returned to live in Texas. In 1948 she married Miguel Arispe and moved to Eldorado in 1956. They were blessed with six children, 23 grandchildren, 63 great-grandchildren, and 31 great-great grandchildren.

She opened Anna’s Inn in 1976. Then in 1978 began Casa Arispe. This popular Mexican food restaurant was family owned and operated for almost 25 years.

Juanita was a loving wife, dedicated mother, sister, aunt, and grandmother to her family. Cooking, singing, and talking on the phone with family and friends brought her great joy.

She loved her community of Eldorado and served tirelessly in various ministries. Juanita was a pillar of Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church. Juanita served as a Guadalupana, founded the funeral meal ministry, helped in starting prayer groups throughout the Diocese of San Angelo, and ministered to those incarcerated. Her life was evidence of her love for God and his people. She will be remembered and missed by all who knew and loved her.

Those left to cherish her memory include her children: Betty Romero and late husband, Ray Romero; Dora Cruz, George and wife, Annie; Mary Grimaldo and husband, Fermin; Anna Pina and husband, Felipe; Rosa Pina and husband, Billy Joe. She was esteemed as a mom by Jose and Martha Diaz. She has precious grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and friends who have showered her with love and affection. She was also cared for by an extremely special niece, Connie Fernandez who never left our side. Her long life has been treasured and shared with her sisters-in-law, Dolores Mendiola and Ester Arispe.

The family would like to thank this wonderful community for your support and prayers during this time. We also thank Monica Kessler, PA, and the Interim Healthcare Hospice staff for their loving care of our beloved.

Creola was born May 9, 1923, in Ralls, Texas, and passed away August 5, 2017, at Lindan Park Nursing Home in Richardson, Texas.
She was preceded in death by her husband - Leon ‘Roy’ Phelps, Jr., parents - Claude & Lottie Mae Henderson, and siblings - Gerald Henderson, J. L. Henderson, & Mike Henderson. She is survived by her sister - Jessie Mae Boyles & Husband, Richard (Lubbock, TX); children - Teresa Bledsoe & Husband, Thomas (Charlotte, NC), Marilyn Elliott (Dallas), Kenneth Phelps (Houston), & Dennis Phelps (Austin); grandchildren – Natalie Elliott (Carrollton), Scott Bledsoe & Wife, Denise (Charlotte, NC), Amanda Barnes & Husband, Chad (Tyler), Nicholas Phelps (Chicago, IL), Lauren Emge& Husband, Justin (St. Louis, MO) & Allison Elliott (Dallas); great-grandchildren – Nathan, Rebekah, & Hudson Barnes (Tyler); and many nieces and nephews and their families.
Creola graduated from Ballinger High School in Ballinger, TX, in 1940. She worked for Civil Service in Dallas during WWII, during which time she met Roy at a USO Dance in San Angelo, TX. They married during the war in Dallas on September 8, 1944, and were able to spend three months together before Roy returned to active duty as a flight navigator in England. 

Following the end of the war and Roy’s return to the States in 1945, they moved to St. Louis, MO for him to return to his pre-war position with the Kilgen Pipe Organ Company. Shortly afterwards the company moved the family to Louisville, KY, and then back again to St. Louis. 

In 1950,Creola and Roy moved to Eldorado, TX, where they raised their four children. Roy owned the Western Auto store and Creola worked as the Schleicher County School Tax Assessor.

They were active members of the First Baptist Church of Eldorado, and Creola served for many years as the church’s pianist and organist. She was also the pianist for the Lions Club and was involved in many other church, school, and civic activities.

In 1966, they moved to Waco, TX where Roy served as the pipe organ technician for Baylor University and Creola worked primarily as a bookkeeper. They were active members of Seventh and James Baptist Church, and Creola was the pianist for the Northwest Kiwanis Club and was a volunteer story hour reader at the Lake Air Library branch She was also active in the American Business Women’s Association (ABWA) and in 1974 served as President of the Cotton Palace Chapter. That same year she was selected as the chapter’s “Businesswoman of the Year.” 

In 1988, Creola moved to Dallas where she began a long career as a Tour Director for Dan Dipert Tours, directing tours all over the United States, including Alaska and Hawaii, Canada, and Europe. In 1995, she entered the Ms. Texas Sr. America Pageant and was selected as the 2nd Runner-Up.

In 1993, Creola began working part time for Blue Cross Blue Shield (BCBS) where she worked for almost 19 years, retiring in 2012 just before her 89th birthday. At her retirement party, she was honored as the oldest BCBS employee in the United States, and the Mayor of Richardson declared that date as “Creola Phelps Day.”

Creola’s unshaken faith guided her throughout her life, and at the time of her death, she was a member of Wilshire Baptist Church in Dallas. In addition to supporting her local churches throughout her life, she was also a faithful supporter of the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association. Throughout her adult life, when Creola was asked how she was doing, her signature reply was, “If I was doing any better, I couldn’t stand it.” By the grace of God through Jesus Christ, her Lord, that statement is now truer than it has ever been.

A joyous celebration of Creola’s life will be held at Wilshire Baptist Church, 4316 Abrams Road, Dallas, TX, 75214, on Saturday, August 26, at 2:00 pm with a reception to follow in the church parlor.

In lieu of flowers, it is requested that donations be made to one of the following:
• Billy Graham Evangelistic Association, 1 Billy Graham Parkway, Charlotte, NC 28201
• First Baptist Church of Eldorado, 109 W Gillis Ave, Eldorado, TX 76936
• Wilshire Baptist Church, Pathways Ministry, 4316 Abrams Rd., Dallas, TX 75214
• Down Syndrome Guild of Dallas, IMPACT Program, 1702 N. Collins Blvd., #170, Richardson, TX 75080.

Ellie Jo Grissom Kirk passed away on Wednesday, August 16, 2017, at Hendrick Hospice Facility in Abilene, Texas.

Graveside service was held August 21, 2017 at Truby, Texas in a private cemetery.

Elmwood Funeral Home was entrusted with the burial. Brother Jeff Fenwick conducted a graveside eulogy.

Ellie was born March 23, 1940 to William Langly and Ina Earl Grissom of Cross Plains, Texas.

Ellie married Kenneth Daniel Kirk on November 4, 1956 and moved to Long Beach, California where Kenneth served two years in the United States Navy. While there, Ellie bore her first child, Katheryn LaNell in Long Beach.

After Kenneth served his two years, they moved back to Truby, Texas where Ellie was a homemaker and bore three more children, Terry Dale, Cynthia Ann and Jeffery Daniel. She spent the next 10 years as a homemaker.

In 1973, Ellie opened a cafe in Anson, Texas called “Jody’s Cafe” which she operated for the next two years. After closing the cafe, she took a job with a can manufacturing company called Crown Cork and Seal and spent the next 23 years there. She retired in 2002 and spent the remainder of her years in Truby.

Ellie is survived by her husband, Kenneth Daniel Kirk of Truby, Texas; and four children, Katheryn LaNell McGee of Anson, Texas, Terry Dale Kirk of Truby, Texas, Cynthia Ann Smart of Truby, Texas, and Jeffery Daniel Kirk of Evergreen, Colorado. Ellie was blessed with 10 grandchildren and 23 great-grandchildren.

She is also survived by brothers Randall Grissom of Irving, Texas and William Earl Grissom of Lawn, Texas; and sisters Dora Mankin of Eldorado, Texas and Sharon Rister of Hamlin, Texas.

Ellie touched the lives of many people and will be missed by all. Some of her last words were, “Don’t forget me.” and as we promised you, we will Never Forget You. We love and miss you and your name will forever be written on our hearts.

Glenda Lee Harris passed away Sunday, August 20, 2017 at the age of 66. Glenda was born September 30, 1950 in Sherman, Texas to Leroy and Betty.

Glenda was a long-time resident of Eldorado, Texas. She attended Eldorado High School and after graduation attended Southwest Texas Junior College.

Glenda spent the last 17 years working in the banking profession.

She was a Charter member of Beta Sigma Phi sorority, Eldorado Chapter.

When she wasn't working, she enjoyed country music and dancing with her friends. Glenda never met a stranger and will be missed by all who knew her. 

Those left to cherish her memory are her son, Stoney Harris and wife Kelsey Fisher Harris of Eldorado; three grandchildren, Jack Walker Harris, Koen Grace Harris and Sutton Kate Harris, all of Eldorado; sister Peggy Williams and husband Jack Williams of Eldorado; along with several nieces and nephews. 

Glenda was preceded in death by her parents.

The family would like to thank everyone for their love, support and prayers during this difficult time. 

Funeral services will be held Thursday August 24th, 2017 at 10:00 a.m. at First Presbyterian Church in Eldorado. Pastor Joe McGee will officiate. Burial will follow in Eldorado Cemetery, under the direction of Love Funeral Home. 

Pallbearers are Shane Pridemore, Gary Hanusch, Jon Parker, Stan Davis, Johnny Brice and Chuck Finley.

The family requests memorials be sent to First Presbyterian Church of Eldorado, 7 N. Cottonwood, Eldorado, Texas 76936.

Thomas Joseph Roach was born onAugust 24, 1942 in Schleicher County, Texas. He passed on August 21, 2017 in Midland, Texas. 

He is survived by his son, Michael Roach; grandchildren Cheyenne, Tyler and Madison; son, Joel and wife Kassy Roach; grandchildren Tanner, Jacob, Kaylee, and Tristan; stepson, Frank and wife Patricia Cary; grandchildren Lacy and Jeffery all of Midland and brother, Henry Roach of Tulia, Texas. 

There was a visitation held at Ellis Funeral Home on Wednesday, August 23, 2017 from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. A funeral service was held in the Ellis Funeral Home Chapel on Thursday, August 24, 2017 at 1:00 p.m. with Gary Kennedy officiating. Burial followed at Resthaven Memorial Park with VFW honor guard.

Tom was a patriot and devoted father. He will be deeply missed.

Online condolences may be offered at www.ellisfunerals.com

Raymond Leroy Mittel was born in San Angelo, Texas, Nov. 16, 1935, to Henry and Mamie Belle Smith Mittel. After graduating from Eldorado High School in 1954, he attended Texas A&M University. Due to his father’s death, he left college to go home to help run the ranch.

He married Ruth Drennan and during their marriage they had three children.

He later went back to college and graduated from Sul Ross University with a Bachelor of Science in Biology with minors in Agriculture and Social Studies. Raymond always felt that “once an Aggie, always an Aggie!”

After graduation from Sul Ross, Raymond taught high school at Eldorado for several years. He went to work for the State of Texas Parks and Wildlife and later the Texas Water Quality Board. He retired from the State of Texas in 1985 and moved back to Eldorado where he purchased Ratliff Insurance which later became Mittel Insurance Agency. He retired from there in 1997.

Raymond was an outdoorsman. He loved to hunt and work on his ranch and had a soft spot for all animals. He loved music and singing in the church choir, He and his wife, Carolyn, especially enjoyed singing duets at church.

Raymond was an avid historian especially concerning World War II. He had an interest in genealogy which later led him and Carolyn to travel to Germany to trace his ancestry. That trip led to discovering a distant cousin and eventually eight more return trips.

He is survived by his wife, Carolyn; children Theresa (Tem) Hickman, Keith and Lisa Mittel, of San Angelo and Ben Mittel of Eldorado; two brothers, Henry and Dot Mittel of Arlington and Dan and Donna Mittel of Fredericksburg; grandchildren Landi Johnson, Cassie Vidos, Eric Neuhoff, Kristin Fida and Bentley Hickman; and eight great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents and brothers Howard, John D. and Stephen.

Memorials can be made to the music department or the youth department at First Baptist Church of Eldorado.

Service was Friday, September 15, 2017, at First Baptist Church of Eldorado.

On October 7th Silas Evans “Sonny” Etheredge went to meet his Lord and Savior. He passed away peacefully in his home, surrounded by family. Sonny was 82 years old. 

Sonny is survived by his wife Jerry Caldwell Etheredge, as well as his children, Dawn & Buff Whitten of Eldorado, Evans and Lisa Etheredge of Midland, Craig and Kathleen Nolen of Sonora, and his brother Eddy Etheredge of Kyle, Texas. Sonny also loved and cherished 10 grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren, and they all loved him. 

Sonny was born on October 30, 1934 to Evans and Ethel Etheredge of Eldorado, Texas. In 1953 Sonny graduated from Eldorado High School. He married his high school sweetheart, Jerry, on October 13, 1956 and they celebrated 60 years of marriage. Sonny owned and operated C&C Coating Inc. in Midland, Texas for 42 years and then returned to Eldorado for the remainder of his days. 

Sonny was an accomplished artist and gun and knife engraver. He was an avid hunter and fisherman. He took pleasure in a good ole fashioned debate that he was sure to win! He loved a good cup of hot coffee, Bit O’ Honey candy and convenience store junk food. 

One of his fondest memories would definitely be mission trips in Mexico, and he loved almost any kind of homemade pie. However, in the last 17 years of Sonny’s life he found his true purpose in Kairos Prison Ministry. He had a love for prison inmates that was truly remarkable, and believed that God’s grace is available to anyone that accepts it. He has spent countless hours writing and ministering to men that are incarcerated.

A perfect day for Sonny would be enjoying a meal of venison with biscuits and gravy, surrounded by the whole family. He loved spending time with his family, watching his grandkids play and was dedicated and determined to make sure each one of us experienced a relationship with Jesus Christ. 

A memorial service celebrating Sonny’s life is scheduled for Saturday October 14th at 2:00pm at First Baptist Church of Eldorado, Texas. 
 

Hatten (Scooter) Geuea was born on October 10, 1964 in San Antonio, Texas and raised in Rocksprings, Texas. 

Scooter passed away on October 5, 2017. He has left us to be our angel and watch over us. His legacy will continue on through his children Jeremiah Geuea and Valerie Geuea. 

His companion Dawn Engdahl was his soulmate and rock through the hardships. 

His siblings James Seale, Rick Blye and Katherine Kepley, along with their significant others and children, as well as close friends and extended family, will always remember him as a hard working, strong and loving family man.

Scooter worked with Mike and Becky Lux for many years. They had a lot of respect and deep friendship grow between them. Scooter worked with Derek Engdahl for three years with Oxy. 

No matter how tired or sick he was he was always working. He will be sadly missed by everyone that worked with him and knew him. He never disliked anyone and always showed respect to all. 

Donald Lee Neal, age 84, of Brady, Texas passed away Monday, November 6, 2017 in San Angelo.  

Don was born January 2, 1933 in Brady to Arthur Lee Neal and Katherine Dianna “Kitty” (Smith) Neal.

He graduated from Rochelle High School in 1949. He married Wilma Dee Martin on July 25, 1953 in Rochelle. He attended Texas Tech University, graduating in 1954 with a degree in Animal Husbandry. He served in the U. S. Air Force from 1954 to 1956 at Perrin AFB in Sherman, Texas.

Don’s roots are deep in Texas ranching.  He was the third generation owner/operator of the Neal Ranch, which his grandfather established in 1891. He always said, “It was not the best way to make a living, but it was the best way to live.”  He also said, “I always thought two generations went through harder times than I did and that I should leave the property in better shape than I received it.”

He was a lifelong member of the First United Methodist Church, first in Rochelle and then in Brady.  His faith was “huge” as was his sense of humor. His passions were football, baseball, boxing and his family-especially his grandchildren.

He served on several boards, including Brady National Bank, McCulloch County Electric Coop, Rochelle Cemetery Association, Texas & Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association, and the Federal Land Bank where he served as Chairman of the Board for 20 years. Don and Wilma also received the Lifetime Achievement Award from the Brady/McCulloch County Chamber of Commerce in 1984.

Funeral services for Don Neal will be held at 10:00am Friday, November 10, 2017 at the First United Methodist Church in Brady with Reverend Phil Steinbach officiating. Interment will follow at Rochelle Cemetery in Rochelle. The family will receive friends Thursday evening from 6:00pm to 8:00pm at Leatherwood Memorial Chapels in Brady. Friends may view Don Neal’s Memorial Video Tribute and/or sign the online memorial guest book at www.leatherwoodmemorialchapels.com.

Pallbearers will be Jim Quinn, Kim King, Kyle Moseley, Mark Moseley, Courtney Williams and Monte Owens. Honorary Pallbearers will be Frank Roddie, Claire Whitesell, Jimmy Williamson, Joey Ranne, Ronnie Reinisch, Sam McAnelly, Gerald Huffman, Myron Mays, Carl Williams, Harold Hardcastle, George Hulen Rogers, Dayton Boren, Mark Jones, Clay Jones and Grant Jones.

Donald Lee Neal is survived by Wilma Dee Neal, his loving wife of over 64 years; son David Neal and wife Deborah of San Angelo, Texas; daughters Donna McCloy and husband Bob of Pipe Creek, Texas and Connie Neal of Brady, Texas; grandchildren Landon Neal and wife Shay, Leigh Ann Greer and husband Josh, Logan Neal and wife Brittney, Carter Humphreys and Courtney Humphreys and six great-grandchildren.  The Neal’s were blessed by an addition to their family with LaGrace DeFiore and husband Stephen, and their children Christina Stone and husband John, Michael DeFiore and Vincent DeFiore.  Don is also survived by nephews Danny Neal and nieces Nona Neal Schorp and Gayla Pool.  He was preceded in death by his parents, infant daughter Karen Diane Neal, brother Billy Jack Neal, nephews Steve and Nicky and niece Nancy Riis.  

Memorial contributions in memory of Donald Lee Neal may be made to the Rochelle Cemetery Association, P. O. Box 51, Rochelle, Texas 76872 and/or Charity of Your Choice.

The Neal Family extends their love and appreciation to the many Angels at the Allison House, especially Juanita, Lupe, Nancy, Zuhey, Susan, Gloria, Sandra and nurses Doris, Kim, Valerie and Michelle.
 

Donald Lee Neal, age 84, of Brady, Texas passed away Monday, November 6, 2017 in San Angelo. 

Don was born January 2, 1933 in Brady to Arthur Lee Neal and Katherine Dianna “Kitty” (Smith) Neal.

He graduated from Rochelle High School in 1949. He married Wilma Dee Martin on July 25, 1953 in Rochelle. He attended Texas Tech University, graduating in 1954 with a degree in Animal Husbandry. He served in the U. S. Air Force from 1954 to 1956 at Perrin AFB in Sherman, Texas.

Don’s roots are deep in Texas ranching. He was the third generation owner/operator of the Neal Ranch, which his grandfather established in 1891. He always said, “It was not the best way to make a living, but it was the best way to live.” He also said, “I always thought two generations went through harder times than I did and that I should leave the property in better shape than I received it.”

He was a lifelong member of the First United Methodist Church, first in Rochelle and then in Brady. His faith was “huge” as was his sense of humor. His passions were football, baseball, boxing and his family-especially his grandchildren.

He served on several boards, including Brady National Bank, McCulloch County Electric Coop, Rochelle Cemetery Association, Texas & Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association, and the Federal Land Bank where he served as Chairman of the Board for 20 years. Don and

Wilma also received the Lifetime Achievement Award from the Brady/McCulloch County Chamber of Commerce in 1984.

Funeral services for Don Neal were held at 10:00am Friday, November 10, 2017 at the First United Methodist Church in Brady with Reverend Phil Steinbach officiating. Interment will follow at Rochelle Cemetery in Rochelle. The family received friends on Thursday evening from 6:00pm to 8:00pm at Leatherwood Memorial Chapels in Brady. Friends may view Don Neal’s Memorial Video Tribute and/or sign the online memorial guest book at www.leatherwoodmemorialchapels.com.

Pallbearers were Jim Quinn, Kim King, Kyle Moseley, Mark Moseley, Courtney Williams and Monte Owens. Honorary Pallbearers will be Frank Roddie, Claire Whitesell, Jimmy Williamson, Joey Ranne, Ronnie Reinisch, Sam McAnelly, Gerald Huffman, Myron Mays, Carl

Williams, Harold Hardcastle, George Hulen Rogers, Dayton Boren, Mark Jones, Clay Jones and Grant Jones.

Donald Lee Neal is survived by Wilma Dee Neal, his loving wife of over 64 years; son David Neal and wife Deborah of San Angelo, Texas; daughters Donna McCloy and husband Bob of Pipe Creek, Texas and Connie Neal of Brady, Texas; grandchildren Landon Neal and wife Shay, Leigh Ann Greer and husband Josh, Logan Neal and wife Brittney, Carter Humphreys and Courtney Humphreys and six great-grandchildren. The Neal’s were blessed by an addition to their family with LaGrace DeFiore and husband Stephen, and their children Christina Stone and husband John, Michael DeFiore and Vincent DeFiore. Don is also survived by nephews Danny Neal and nieces Nona Neal Schorp and Gayla Pool. He was preceded in death by his parents, infant daughter Karen Diane Neal, brother Billy Jack Neal, nephews Steve and Nicky and niece Nancy Riis. 

Memorial contributions in memory of Donald Lee Neal may be made to the Rochelle Cemetery Association, P. O. Box 51, Rochelle, Texas 76872 and/or Charity of Your Choice.

The Neal Family extends their love and appreciation to the many Angels at the Allison House, especially Juanita, Lupe, Nancy, Zuhey, Susan, Gloria, Sandra and nurses Doris, Kim, Valerie and Michelle.

 In loving memory of Shirley Ann Eilers, Trimble, Overstreet-Killebrew who was born September 23, 1937 in Pottsville, TX to Henry and Melinda Eilers both now deceased.

She married Raymond Trimble in April of 1954 and had six children: Tom Trimble and wife Sandy of Ft. Worth, Susan Lloyd of Eldorado, David Trimble - Deceased, Jym Trimble and wife Denette of San Angelo, Patricia Moeller of San Angelo, and Raymond Trimble Jr. and wife Tiffany of Sheffield.

She shared her youth with siblings: Herman Eilers, Charles Eilers - Deceased, Olen Eilers - Deceased, Gilbert “Shorty” Eilers - Deceased, Betty Rhodes, Nelda Davis, Earl Raymond Eilers, and Larry Eilers.

She was grandmother to Marla, Audalee, Jerrie, Jennifer, Michael, Seth, Crystal, Jeffery, Raline, Stephanie, Sheryl, Blair, Jaymie, Madison, and Gaeron.

She was great-grandmother to Elizabeth, David - Deceased, Starlynn, Jazmin, Seth, Josie, Aaron, Evan, Thomas, Jonas, Lucas, Cheyenne, Layla, Joe, Emerson, and William.

She married Hugh Killebrew July 3, 2010 in Christoval, Texas.

Shirley was a remarkable woman who was a modern day Renaissance woman.  She did her own plumbing, carpentry, and roofing. She was a business owner, seamstress, artist, florist, cook, caregiver, singer, musician, foster parent, and servant of God.  

At 11:30 am on Tuesday November 7, 2017 she went to be with our Lord.  This poem was found in her things.

In Time of Loss
Lonely is the home without you,
Life to us is not the same;
All the world would be like heaven, 
If we could have you back again.

A light is from our household gone, 
A voice we loved is still, 
A place is vacant in our home, 
That never can be filled.

May the God of Love and Mercy,
Care for our loved one who is gone, 
And bless with consolation,
those left to carry on.

The happy hours we once enjoyed, 
How sweet their memory still, 
But death has left a vacant place, 
This world can never fill.

How dearly we loved you, 
And prayed you might live, 
But Jesus just beckoned, 
And we had to give.

God gave us strength to bear it, 
And courage to fight the blow, 
What it has meant to love you, 
God alone will ever know.
​​Author Unknown

 Special thanks to Kindred Hospice for their help and support during this difficult time, The Mertzon Highway Church of Christ for their love, prayers, and support.

Henry Mittel, 89, passed away on Sunday, November 19, 2017 in Arlington.

Funeral Service: 3:00 p.m. Friday, November 24, at Rush Creek Christian Church, 2350 SW Green Oaks Blvd., Arlington. Interment: 2:30 p.m. Tuesday, November 28, at Dallas-Fort Worth National Cemetery, Dallas. Visitation: 1:30-2:30 p.m. Friday prior to the service at the church.

Henry was born on August 4, 1928 in San Angelo to Henry Mittel Sr. and Mamie Smith Mittel. He served in the U.S. Air Force during the Korean Conflict in the 91st Strategic Reconnaissance Squadron. He attained the rank of Captain during his post-active duty. Henry graduated from The University of Texas with a degree in Electrical Engineering. He worked in the Aeronautics Industry for 40 plus years for several companies including LTV, General Dynamics, and Bell Helicopter.

He was a beekeeper for 25 years and was a Ham Radio operator from the age of 13 throughout his life. He maintained a ranch and hunting facility in Schleicher County. He was a member of Rush Creek Christian Church, AARL, Moslah Shriners, and was a 42nd degree Mason.

Henry also enjoyed photography, gardening, orchard farming, and loved fishing for salmon with his son Chris in Washington and Oregon.

He was preceded in death by his parents; and four brothers, Stephen, John Dee, Howard, and Raymond Mittel.

Survivors: Wife, Dorothy “Dot” Mittel of Arlington; sons, Kenneth Mittel of Tulsa, OK, Bruce Mittel of Tulsa, OK, and Chris Mittel of Houston; step-son, Phil Tullos of Krum; step-daughter, Aimee Tullos of Denton; and brother, Dan Mittel and wife, Donna of Fredericksburg.

Marcella Harrison, 87, passed away on November 27, 2017, in San Angelo, Texas. She is survived by her son, Brad Harrison and his wife Linda of San Antonio, and grandchildren Quentin Harrison of San Angelo, Leigh Ann Harrison of San Francisco, California and Scott Harrison of Temple. Other survivors include Pelham Rose Stavley, John Bradford and Beverly Stavley. She is preceded in death by her husband, Felix Harrison.

Marcella Eunice Bradford Harrison was born on November 22nd, 1930 in Del Rio, Texas to Ernest Pelham and Estella Rose Bradford. She began school in Pumpville, Texas and attended high school at San Marcos Academy. Following her dream to become a medical doctor she studied Pre-Med at Sul Ross University in Alpine and Southwest Texas State University in San Marcos. In November of 1950 she married Felix Harrison and together they ranched from Langtry to Pumpville to the Big Bend. Marcella began working with the US Postal Service in Sanderson in 1960 so their son Brad could attend school, spending her weeks in town and her weekends on the ranch. Marcella retired after 35 years with the Postal Service, when she and Felix moved to Eldorado in 1995.

Marcella was a very special person who was passionate about life and the things she believed to be important - her religious faith, family, country, health, and ownership of land. Dedication to her husband and son was absolute. Tenacity was evident with everything she endeavored to accomplish. Marcella’s ultimate desire was to be a medical doctor, but her decision to become a wife and mother took precedence. However, she never abandoned her passion to help people with health and nutrition, investing her time and resources in pursuit of knowledge concerning the natural healing process of the human body.

Over many years she operated a series of health food stores, from the Sparrow’s Nest to The Healthy Way. No matter what ailed you, she had a remedy for it in the form of vitamins and supplements. Marcella contributed to her country by participating in the West Texas Prison Ministry for many years, writing letters and sending Bibles to inmates in Texas prisons.

“Only one life, will soon be passed, only what’s done for Christ will last.”

Viewing will be held from 10:00 a.m. until 9:00 p.m. on Friday, 12/8/2017, in Johnson’s Funeral Home located at 435 W. Beauregard Ave. in San Angelo, Texas. Services will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, December 9th, 2017, at Johnson’s Funeral Home followed by graveside services in Fairmount Cemetery. BBQ will be served afterwards at Johnson’s Funeral Home.

Lucille Farmer McWhorter, 91, of Eldorado, TX, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, December 6, 2017 in the Schleicher County Nursing Home. Lucille was born August 30, 1926 in Weatherford, TX, to Louie Henry and Annie Rebecca Farmer. She married Robert L. (Bob) McWhorter of Eldorado on January 28, 1967.

Lucille graduated from Weatherford High School in 1944 and from North Texas University, Denton, TX in 1948 with a Bachelor of Music Degree. She came to Eldorado in the fall of 1948 and taught there for five years before moving to Ozona and teaching there until her marriage in January, 1967. She was a member of the First Baptist Church in Eldorado where she directed the music for several years.

Lucille was preceded in death by her husband, her parents, and her brother, Rev. Louie Farmer, Jr. and sister, Mary Edna Farmer.

Survivors include niece, Reva Daniel (Gerald) of Clinton, Mississippi and their children Marianne and Robert; sister in law, Rita McWhorter of Eldorado; nephews John McWhorter (Gay) of Keller, Dan McWhorter (Debbie) of San Angelo and Paul McWhorter (Anna) of Christoval; Bobby Calhoun, Earl Calhoun, Danny Calhoun and their families; Ross and Marilyn Whitten of Eldorado, Steve & Kori Whitten of Shallowater, & Bob & Martha Leigh Whitten of San Saba and their families.

The family wishes to sincerely thank Lucille’s caregivers at home, the staff at Schleicher County Nursing Home, and Kindred Hospice for their loving care.

A celebration of Lucille’s life was at 2:00 p.m. Friday, December 8, 2017 in the Eldorado Cemetery Chapel and burial followed under the direction of Love Funeral Home. Pallbearers were Matt Hanson, Clay Whitten, Travis Whitten, Dan McWhorter, John McWhorter, and Paul McWhorter.

Memorials may be made to First Baptist Church, Eldorado, TX, or the charity of your choice.

Clyde “Bob” Bruce, Jr., 67, of Eldorado, Texas passed away on November 23, 2017.  

A celebration of life will be held, 1 p.m., Saturday, December 16 at Eldorado First Baptist Church. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital.  

Bob was born July 8, 1950 to Clyde and Betty Hicks Bruce in Brownfield, Texas. Bob grew up in Grape Creek and completed Grape Creek Junior High as the Valedictorian. He continued his education at Lake View where he excelled at every sport he participated in. Bob left high school slightly ahead of schedule and enlisted in the military. He proudly served in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam conflict. While running a bulldozer his platoon came under fire where he was shot in the left arm and took shrapnel to the back as well. He was awarded the Purple Heart and one Oak Cluster.   

Bob was a welder for over fifty years, and was said to be able to weld anything from a broken heart to the crack of dawn. He is survived by his wife of forty years Ima Jean Cochnauer; son Zane and wife, TinaMarie; daughter, Billie and husband Kirk Paschal.

He was the proud Poppy of: Erin, Kenzie, Asa, Broc Paschal and HattieMarie and Haze Bruce. Two sisters: Patricia, of Indianapolis, and Sue, of Farmers Branch, Texas.  

He is preceded in death by his parents.

Funeral services celebrating the life of Iretta Faye Mace Stanford, age 84, will be held at 2 pm on Wednesday, December 20th at Northwestern Baptist Church, 3901 Mockingbird Lane, Midland, Texas with visitation beginning at 1:00. Burial will be Thursday at the Eldorado Cemetery in Eldorado, Texas.

Iretta was born on September 26, 1933, to J.H. (Skeet) and Faye Floyd Mace in Dalhart, Texas, and moved to Eldorado at a young age. She graduated a year early from Eldorado High School where she was a cheerleader and Valedictorian of her class. She then attended Texas Tech University.

Iretta married Albert L. Stanford, a petroleum engineer, also from Eldorado, on June 6, 1953; they were married for 64 years.

lretta was a homemaker and elementary school teacher in Louisiana and also in Midland where she retired after 23 years.

She was very artistic and enjoyed sewing and crafting. Iretta loved attending sporting events, especially when any of her children or grandchildren were involved and always cheered on the Red Raiders. She found great joy in her family and loving and caring for them.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her grandson Chris Stanford, and her daughter-in-law Connie Stanford.

She is survived by her husband Al, sister Paula and her husband Dr. Harlan Fisher, daughter Faye Phillips and herhusband  Brad, son Dr. Jim Stanford, son Mike Stanford and his wife Mary, and son Paul Stanford. Grandchildren include Brian Phillips and his wife Cherie, Cara Waits and her husband Michael, Geoffrey Stanford, Sarah Hatstat and her husband Bobby, Brady Stanford and his wife Anna, Tracy Stanford, Joey Stanford, Nick Stanford and fiancée Kaitlynn Smith. Great grandchildren include Foster and Jack Phillips and Michaela Waits.

Iretta will always be in our hearts ... because that is where she is still alive.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to the ALS Association Louisiana Mississippi Chapter (webla.alsa.org) or the charity of your choice.

Anita Runge was born in San Angelo, Texas, the first child of James Forrest and Edith Winslow Runge. She grew up on the family ranch in northern Schleicher County and received her first seven years of schooling in the one-room Cliff School located just seven miles south of her home. She graduated from San Angelo High School and then the University of Texas in Austin with a BS in Home Economics.

Inspired by her mother, Anita maintained an active interest in the arts throughout her life. As a teen, she studied in Mexico and Guatemala under Elma Pratt, director of the International School of Art. Following college graduation, she studied under international sculptress Helena Zelezny in Rome. 

Upon her return from Rome, Anita worked for the Texas Agricultural Extension service in Bell County as a home demonstration agent before embarking on a 1953 tour of France, Spain, Morocco and Scandinavia with her sister and friends. Anita then worked for McCall magazine and subsequently as an education consultant for Talon Zipper based in New York City. These jobs took her throughout the United States. Eventually, Anita traveled to China, Egypt and Germany ,and  lived for two years in the Dominican Republic.

In 1958, she married Jene Moore in Schleicher County where they farmed before moving to San Angelo where Anita worked for Social Services. There, Anita discovered her talent for this type of work and graduated from the University of Michigan with a Masters degree in Social Work in 1967. Following their return from the Dominican Republic in 1969, the Moores moved to Pueblo, Colorado where she was employed with the Colorado State Hospital until her retirement as director of the Social Services Department.

Initially the couple moved  from Pueblo to La Veta, Colorado and eventually to Kerrville, Texas in 1999. Upon the death of her husband in 2016, Anita moved back to Eldorado to live with her brother Jim and his wife Claryce. Anita was preceded in death by her parents, husband Jene and sister May Runge Kissko. In addition to Jim and Claryce, she is survived by her brother Dick and wife Caroline of Fort McKavett and 19 nieces and nephews. 

The family wishes to thank Adela Sandate, Leonor Garza and Maria Guadarrama for the kind and loving care they gave Anita this past year.

A memorial service will be held at 11:00 AM on Saturday, January 6, 2018 at St. James Episcopal Church in Fort McKavett, Texas.
 

Priscilla was born on June 8, 1955 in Hobbs, New Mexico to Bill and Layvonne Holsey. She spent her childhood in Eldorado, Texas and attended college at Lubbock Christian College in Lubbock, Texas. While at LCC, she met and then married Tony Alley, who would remain her husband until his death in 2008.

Priscilla spent her life working with children as a teacher, director and executive director. She earned a masters degree in early childhood development from the University of Central Oklahoma, and became recognized as an expert in the field.

Priscilla devoted her life to God, and was a dedicated member of the Edmond, Oklahoma Church of Christ until her passing. She is preceded in death by her parents, Bill and Layvonne Holsey of Eldorado, and by her husband Tony. She is survived by her two children, Ryan and Elise, and by her siblings, Donald, Brian, Larry, Zack and Cindy.