LOZANO, TX—Linda Jean Rhyner, 70, passed away October 5, 2015 at her residence after battling cancer.  
Linda was born on September 16, 1945 in Chicago, Illinois to Arthur and Elsie Johnson. She attended Business College and married Johnny Jacob Rhyner. Linda dedicated 33 years as Post Mistress to the U.S.P.S. in Lozano where she treated each customer like they were her own family. She was of the Lutheran faith. She enjoyed mowing; this was her idea of stress relief.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Arthur and Elsie Johnson and grandparents Oscar and Huld Hermanson.
Linda is survived by her husband, Johnny Jacob Rhyner; children Buck (Stephanie) Rhyner, Wendy (Cain) Wilson and Ryan (Jennifer) Rhyner; grandchildren Ty and Jake Rhyner, Helen and Carolyn Wilson and Alexis Rhyner.
Visitation hours were held on Friday, October 9, 2015 from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at Buck Ashcraft Funeral Home.
Funeral service will be held on Saturday, October 10, 2015 at 10:00 a.m. at Buck Ashcraft Funeral Home, 710 Ed Carey Dr., Harlingen, Texas 78550 with Dr. Bob Cole officiating. Burial will follow at Mont Meta Memorial Park in San Benito.
Pallbearers will be Buck, Ryan, Ty and Jake Rhyner, Billie D. Simpson and Cain Wilson.
Honorary pallbearer will be Billie Mack Simpson.
The family would like to thank MD Anderson, Harlingen Medical Center, MacPherson’s, United Home Health, Gentiva Hospice and San Benito Medical Associates (Lauren Villarreal, ANP) for their care. A special thank you to Dr. Jairo Rodriguez for his personal attention and availability during the past few weeks.
You are invited to sign the guestbook or share a memory at www.buckashcraft.com.
Arrangements are with Buck Ashcraft Funeral Home, (956) 423-3636.

Rudolf Paul Carey, Sr. (Rudy) passed away in El Paso, TX. Rudy went to be with our lord on Sunday, September 27, 2015. He was born on June 30, 1934 to Peter Gardner Carey and Severita Perez Carey.
Rudy was a member of Our Lady of Perpetual Help, a member of the Masonic Lodge, Knights of Columbus, Moose Lodge and a lifetime VFW member. Rudy served his country as a member of the United States Army and was a recipient of numerous awards which include the National Defense Service metal as well as the Korean War Service metal. Upon completion of his service, Rudolf was then able to meet the love of his life, Oralia Villarreal whom he would be married to for 59years.
He continued his education by earning a Bachelor’s of Art degree and Master’s in Education. He worked as a school teacher, principal, and school administrator for 23 years where he retired in 1977 and moved to Truth or Consequences, New Mexico. He owned and operated the Sunland Motel for 22 years and worked for the Bureau of Reclamation then the Sheriff’s Department of Sierra County as a deputy sergeant for 15 years where he also retired. Rudy worked for the Domestic Abuse Intervention for 14 years where he finally retired for the last time.
He is preceded in death by his father, Peter G. Carey; mother, Severita Carey; and sister, Estolia J. Carey (Jo).
He is survived by the love of his life, Oralia V. Carey. His children Elsie Carey, San Benito, TX; Rudy Carey, Jr. (Angel); Peter Carey (Blanca); Mark Carey, and Joseph Carey (Barbie) all of Truth or Consequences, New Mexico; three brothers Peter James Carey (Lily+), Truth or Consequences, NM; David Carey (Sarah), Austin, TX; Charlie Diaz (Marilyn), LA; and one sister Elsie Gomez (Rafael+), San Benito, TX. He is also survived by 15 grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren.
A memorial service will be held on Monday, October 12, 2015 at 12:00 p.m. at the Moose Lodge, Date Street, Truth or Consequences, New Mexico.

SAN BENITO—Minerva Ratliff, born August 10, 1933, entered into eternal rest on Monday, September 21, 2015 at the age of 82. She is at peace and is no longer in pain.
Her husband, Nelson Ratliff, Sr.; mother, Genoveva Gomez; brother, Alfredo Gomez; sons, Nelson Ratliff, Jr. and Charles Brown; and great-grandson, Jake Andrew Galvan, preceded her in death.
Survivors include her partner, Alberto Briseño; daughters, Virginia Mae Ratliff Vargas and Cynthia Ann Ratliff; grandchildren Carrie Ann Sauceda, Jennifer Mendez, Ryan Orlando Montalvo, Iolani Ratliff and Nelson Ratliff III; as well as numerous great-grandchildren.
Minerva, affectionately known as Neva, dedicated her life to helping others. She lovingly opened her home to friends and neighbors, and there was always a hot cup of coffee and a good story when people walked into her kitchen. Generous in spirit, she made sure that those in need received a care package, a prayer and her love. She was an active volunteer of Dolly Vinsant’s Auxiliary, and she also served her community as a member of St. Theresa’s La Vela Perpetua. She spent her life selflessly serving others. She loved to sing, dance and make people laugh. We will remember Minerva for her sense of humor, wit, charm, and the beautiful memories we shared with her.
Visiting hours are today, Wednesday, September 23, 2015, beginning at 4:00 p.m. and concluding at 9:00 p.m., with a recitation of the holy rosary to begin at 7:00 p.m. on Wednesday within the San Benito Funeral Home Chapel, 1400 West Highway 77, San Benito, Texas 78586.
A mass of Christian burial will be celebrated tomorrow, Thursday, September 24, 2015 at 10:00 a.m. in St. Theresa Catholic Church, 1300 Combes Street, San Benito, Texas 78586.
Committal services will then follow at Mont Meta Memorial Park.
Minerva’s family would like to thank her provider, Araceli Vigañas, for her 12 years of love and compassion and Bee First Hospice for their dedication and care.
You are invited to send your condolences to the family, sign the guestbook, and share your memories of Minerva online at www.sanbenitofuneralhome.com.
Arrangements are with San Benito Funeral Home, (956) 361-9192.

SAN BENITO—Domingo “Ray” Cantú, born on September 22, 1946 in La Feria, Texas, died on Tuesday, September  22, 2015 surrounded by his family. He was 69 years old.
Ray was a security guard, working for INS, Wackenhut, and Harlingen High School, and was also employed with Frito-Lay, Inc. and Rainbow Bread, Co. Aside from working, Domingo played musical instruments such as the organ, accordion, guitar, saxophone, and trumpet. He was an avid pool shark, but spending time with his precious grandchildren was the utmost priority to him.
His parents, Carmen and Felicitas Cantú; sister, Daria Cantú; brother-in-law, Raul “Boat” Gonzalez; and parents-in-law, Inocencio and Lupita Gonzalez, preceded him in death.
Survivors include his loving daughters, Zelina Villarreal and Criselda Chavez; devoted life partner of many years, Inocencia “Ino” Cantú; grandchildren Drianna Gonzales, Serena Villarreal, Nicholas Villarreal, Zoe Villarreal, Savanah Arellano, Karissa Arellano, Sienna Arellano, and Luke Samuel Chavez; brothers, Rolando Cantú and Carmen Cantú, Jr.; sister, Janie Cantú Lopez; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.
Visiting hours are on Thursday, September 24, 2015, beginning at 3:00 p.m. and concluding at 9:00 p.m., with a recitation of the holy rosary to begin at 7:00 p.m. on Thursday within the San Benito Funeral Home Chapel, 1400 West Highway 77, San Benito, Texas 78586.
A mass of Christian burial will be celebrated on Friday, September 25, 2015 at 11:00 a.m. in St. Theresa Catholic Church, 1300 Combes Street, San Benito, Texas 78586.
Committal services will then follow at Mont Meta Memorial Park.
You are invited to send your condolences to the family, sign the guestbook, and share your memories of Domingo “Ray” online at www.sanbenitofuneralhome.com.
Arrangements are with San Benito Funeral Home, (956) 361-9192.

SAN BENITO—Emma Porter, born April 9, 1922, passed onto eternal rest on Saturday, October 3, 2015, at the age  of 93. She is finally at peace and no longer in pain.
Emma, a native of San Benito, was a faithful bookkeeper for over 40 years at Fausto’s Lumber Company in San Benito and made her way to Washington, D.C. during the war to work at the Pentagon as a stenographer for the War Department.
She was preceded in death by her husband, James Porter; her parents, James and Anita Ratliff; her brothers Charlie Ratliff, James Ratliff, Nelson Ratliff, and a sister, Evelyn Ratliff. Also preceding her in death were two half-brothers, Mateo Mancillas and Federico Ratliff.
She is survived by her son, Wayne K. Porter and Mina Porter, his wife, and two grandchildren, Michael Wayne and Kelly Porter along with a sister-in-law, Leonora Ratliff and a host of nieces and nephews.
Graveside services were held on Tuesday, October 6, 2015 at 11:30 a.m. in Mont Meta Memorial Park in San Benito, Texas.
Her family wishes to thank all of her friends and relatives who have supported her over the years and we know she will be missed by many.
Arrangements are with San Benito Funeral Home, (956) 361-9192.

Ernestine Ramsey Neely died peacefully on October 1, 2015 at the age of 105.  
She had been a resident of Canterbury Court in Harlingen for the past nine years.
Ernestine was born in Plain Dealing, Louisiana on September 28, 1910, to Ernest Linwood Ramsey and Mississippi Purcell Ramsey. The family moved to San Benito in 1926 where Ernestine graduated from San Benito High School. After graduation, she continued her education at Kidd Key College and Conservatory of Music in Sherman, TX; Southwestern University, Georgetown, TX; and received her Bachelor’s and Master’s Degrees in Elementary Education from Texas A & I University at Kingsville. On August 1, 1937, she married Sidney V. Neely at the First United Methodist Church of San Benito.
Ernestine was an active member of the First United Methodist Church of San Benito for 89 years. She served on numerous committees and boards of the church. She was Superintendent of the Intermediate Department of the Sunday School and historian of the church. She also served as president of the United Methodist Women and as district secretary for the organization. Ernestine was chairman of the 60th anniversary celebration of the building of the church. She was the church organist for 25 years and was chairman of the committee for the renovation of the Kilgen Pipe Organ. In 1989, the organ expansion and renovation was dedicated in her name. She was also honored by the church as Lay Person of the Year in 1996.
Active in community organizations, Ernestine was a member of the San Benito Music Club, served as president of Chapter L, P.E.O. Sisterhood and vice president of Colonia Dames of the 17th Century. She was a member of the Lt. Thomas Barlow Chapter of the National Society Daughters of the American Revolution. In 1989, she was named Woman of the Year by the Zonta Club.
As an avid gardener, Ernestine took great pride in growing roses and enjoyed sharing the blooms with others. She was awarded the Yard of the Year in 1978 and the Home of the Year in 1987. Both were presented by the San Benito Chamber of Commerce.
Ernestine was a teacher in the San Benito CISD for 35 years. She was an elementary classroom teacher and also taught music for several years. After her retirement, many of her former students sought her out to tell her how she had influenced their lives.
Ernestine was preceded in death by her parents and her husband, Sidney V. Neely.
She is survived by her daughters Mary Alice McBrayer (Jack) of Brevard, NC, and Martha Neely Cloys of Greenville, SC; her grandchildren Angie Dulweber (John) of Charlotte, NC, Grant Cloys (Pam) of Greenville, SC, Christy Coman (Tim) of Dallas, TX, Mike Cloys (B.J.) of Greenville, SC, and Stephen Allgood of Longview, TX; 10 great-grandchildren and one great-great-granddaughter.
Visitation will be held at Buck Ashcraft Funeral Home on Sunday, October 4 from 4-6 p.m. Private burial will be held at Mont Meta Memorial Park prior to the service. A celebration of Ernestine’s life will be held at the First United Methodist Church of San Benito at 2 p.m. on Monday, October 5. The services will be led by The Rev. Melissa Nelson, The Rev. Dr. John Teer, and The Rev. Dr. Stephen Westfall.
In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be made to the Kilgen Organ Fund at the First United Methodist Church of San Benito or the Sidney V. Neely Mathematics Scholarship Fund at the University of Texas RGV at Brownsville.
You are invited to sign the guestbook or share a memory at www.buckashcraft.com.
Arrangements are with Buck Ashcraft Funeral Home.

Dorothy F. Scholes passed away on September 30, 2015, in Princeton, IL, age 82.
A resident of San Benito for 40 years, Dorothy was preceded in death by her husband, Rhonald R. Scholes.
Born in Cave City, Kentucky in March, 1933, Dorothy moved to Illinois as a child; after completing school, she worked in Josten’s Jewelry factory. In 1954 she married Rhonnie Scholes.
After moving to San Benito in 1963, Dorothy joined Rhonnie in his carpentry and contracting business, R.R. Scholes Builders. They family operated the Playland Rollercade skating rink in San Benito for a number of years; Dorothy also worked as a waitress at the Stonewall Jackson Hotel Café, and helped with the family honey bee business.
Dorothy returned to Illinois in 2001 where she continued to enjoy gardening, genealogy, and numerous handcraft projects.
She is survived by her son, David (Virginia) Byrd, daughter Sandy (Gene) Ellison, and sons Gary Scholes and Robert Scholes, five grandchildren, six great-grandchildren, several brothers and sisters, and many nieces and nephews.
A private prayer service was held by the family. Cremation will be followed by interment in the Scholes family cemetery in Kasbeer, IL.

Earl Lee Grant, MD, passed away in the predawn hours of October 22, 2015, at the age of 86. He was born in El Paso, TX, May 16, 1929, to Wheeler Haywood Grant and Thelma Means Grant. He spent his early years in Marfa, TX, before moving to Laredo for a short time and then to San Benito, TX, in the eighth grade. His new friends called him “Marfa.” Earl graduated from high school in 1946 where he played football and claims his team physician inspired him to go into medicine. He was also President of his Senior Class.
Several of Earl’s San Benito friends decided to attend college together and chose Texas A&M University. At A&M he was a member of the Corps of Cadets and as a Senior served as Company Commander of Battery “B” Field Artillery. Earl received his BS Degree in 1950 along with his commission as a 2nd Lt. in the United States Army.
Upon graduation he married his high school sweetheart Kate Brown and was stationed at Fort Polk, Louisiana and Ft. Sill, Oklahoma before departing for his assignment in Germany. Earl served as an Artillery Officer from 1951-1953 and was honorably discharged with the rank of Captain.
Earl enrolled in A&M once again to pursue the necessary courses to apply to med school. He attended the University of Texas Medical Branch in Galveston and received his Doctor of Medicine Degree in 1958 having served as President of Alpha Kappa Kappa Medical Fraternity his senior year.
Earl then completed an Internship at Brackenridge Hospital in 1958-1959; and from 1959-1965 he was in family practice with Drs. Jerry Senter, E.V. Chauvin and B.J. Smith and has cited those years “as among the most satisfying of his career.”
During this time Earl was the Stadium doctor for the UT football games and drove his burnt orange Volkswagen to the front of Memorial Stadium. He also served as the team doctor for the McCallum High School football team whose coach had been his football coach at San Benito High School. Further, he made regular calls to the Texas School for the Deaf and mentioned throughout the years how much he enjoyed being there for those children.
Earl enjoyed being able to do something of everything – surgery, delivering babies, and all of the health needs family physicians were allowed to do then; but he could see a restricted office practice in the future and in 1965 elected to pursue a career in Anesthesiology. Dr. Pepper Jenkins, Department Chairman at Parkland Memorial Hospital, University of Texas Southwestern Medical School, and one of the most renowned Anesthesiologists in the world, became Earl’s mentor and lifelong friend. Upon completion of his residency, Earl was the seventh physician to join Austin Anesthesiology Group in 1967.
During his career, Earl was President of the Texas Society of Anesthesiologists and President of The Blood and Tissue Center of Central Texas (then called the Blood Bank) having served a term as Secretary/Treasurer and Member at Large for 14 years. He and Diane both served on the Development Committee which renovated and expanded the Center. Earl also received a plaque from the “Emergency Medical Services in recognition for Training Paramedic Students.”
He was very active in the Travis County Medical Society serving as President in 1978. He was also a member of the Board of Censors and Medical Legislation Committee as well as Chairman of the Physician Health and Wellness Committee. He received the TCMS Gold Headed Cane Physician of the Year Award in 1995 and was a member of the TCMS Delegation to the Texas Medical Association for several years.
A dedicated supporter of the Texas Medical Association, Earl joined the TMA in 1959. He served as Chairman of the Board of Councilors, TMA’s ethics and disciplinary arm, Chairman of the Board of Trustees and was a member of the Executive Committee. He was also a member of the House of Delegates and TEXPAC. Earl was most proud of their beautiful new building on 15th Street which was built during his tenure on the Board. He was a member of the Governor’s Committee to initiate tort reform in the State of Texas.
Earl became a member of the Board of Trustees of the Texas Medical Association Foundation in 2002 participating on the Advisory Council as well as the Gala and Development Committees while taking part in the Leadership Society. He was honored by the TMAF with the Heart of Gold Award in 2015 but was never able to be present to receive the award in person.
Earl was Chief of Staff at St. David’s Community Hospital in 1984. He was a Trustee of the St. David’s Foundation Board and continued to serve on its successor entity – the Community Access Committee. He was devoted to St. David’s and practiced there nearly 40 years not fully retiring until the age of 75. He was currently a member of The Chairman’s Emeritus Council.
Earl bleeds maroon and was an avid supporter of all things Texas A&M. He was
President of the 12th Man Foundation and kept up with his B Battery classmates throughout the years. He gave a Permanently Endowed 12th Man Scholarship to A&M; and in 1985 the Class of 1950 gave one in his name along with three others from his class.
Earl and his family were members of University Christian Church for many years where he served as a Deacon and Elder.
Earl was a member of the Headliners Club and Tarry House. As a former member of the Austin Country Club for around 50 years, he received the Sportsman of the Year Award in 1985. It was at the old ACC where he met Harvey Penick who became his teacher and mentor and with whom he developed a doctor-patient relationship and a deep friendship. He was at his bedside when Harvey passed away, signed his death certificate, and served as one of his pallbearers.
Earl was preceded in death by his wife Kate Brown Grant and his parents Wheeler Haywood Grant and Thelma Means Grant. He is survived by his wife Diane of 26 years; his son Glenn Haywood Grant and wife Judy; and grandchildren Jason Wheeler Grant and wife Lyndsey; Cody Christopher Grant; and Ashley Kate Grant; and by Diane’s sons Howell Mallory Finch, Jr., and wife Beverly and Stanley Frank Finch and wife Linda; and her grandchildren Stanley James Finch and wife Beth, Howell Mallory Finch III and wife Aimee, Charles Harris Finch and wife Autumn, Henry Carter Finch, Amelia Mallory Finch and Mary Frances Finch; and three great grandchildren.
Earl’s family is extremely grateful for the professional and compassionate care of the physicians and nurses in the ER and ICU at St. David’s Medical Center along with the support staff. We are also most grateful for Earl’s caregivers Tony LaCivita, Estella Avila and Monica Jackson, who went the extra mile to keep him safe and comfortable, and for his Physical Therapist Tonya Maloy.
Earl will be greatly missed for his caring and generous demeanor. He loved life, his country, the heat of the Texas sun, golf, Texas A&M and Aggie football, the practice of medicine, and above all his family and friends.
A memorial service will be held at the Church of the Good Shepherd on Saturday, October 31 at 1:00 p.m.
In lieu of flowers the family requests that donations be made to the Episcopal Church of the Good Shepherd, 3201 Windsor Road, Austin, TX 78703; St. David’s Neal Kocurek Scholarship (for students planning on majoring in a medical related field), P. O. Box 302259, Austin, TX 78703; Texas School for the Deaf Foundation, 1102 South Congress Avenue, Austin, TX 78704; TMA Foundation, 401 West 15th Street, Austin, TX 78701; or a charity of your choice.
Arrangements by Weed-Corley-Fish Funeral Home (512) 452-8811. Obituary and memorial guestbook available online at www.wcfish.com

SAN ANTONIO/SAN BENITO, TX—Martha O. Nunez was born on March 7, 1923 in Corpus Christi, Texas and died   on Sunday, October 25, 2015 in San Antonio, Texas. She was 92 years old.
She retired in 1986 from the Harlingen State Hospital as a nurse’s aide, and then went on to obtain a medication provider certificate and worked at Golden Palms and South Twin Brooks Nursing homes in San Benito. She also served as a volunteer at Dolly Vinsant hospital for many years. As a devoted Catholic, she was an active member of the Catholic Daughter’s Association and the Knights of Columbus Ladies Auxiliary. Martha also served many years as an Eucharistic minister at St. Benedict Catholic Church and St. Theresa Catholic Church. After moving to San Antonio in 1999, she became a lay minister at Wilford Hall Medical Center at Lackland Air Force Base in Texas and a member of the St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church Ladies Society in San Antonio, Texas.
Her parents, Manuel and Leonor O. Nunez, and her brother, Felipe Nunez (Bertha), preceded her in death.
Survivors include her daughter, Martha G. Caballero (Samuel); two grandchildren, Celina Leal (Chris) and Samuel G. Caballero (Yorka); four great-grandchildren Christian and Cela Leal, and Samuel and Isabella Caballero; and two nephews.
Visiting hours are today, Wednesday, October 28, 2015, beginning at 3:00 p.m. and concluding at 9:00 p.m., with a recitation of the holy rosary to begin at 7:00 p.m. Wednesday within the San Benito Funeral Home Chapel, 1400 West Highway 77, San Benito, Texas 78586.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated tomorrow, Thursday, October 29, 2015 at 10:00 a.m. in St. Theresa Catholic Church, 1300 Combes Street, San Benito, Texas 78586.
Committal services will then follow at Mont Meta Memorial Park.
You are invited to send your condolences to the family, sign the guestbook, and share your memories of Martha online at www.sanbenitofuneralhome.com.
Arrangements are with San Benito Funeral Home, (956) 361-9192.

SAN BENITO—James Lee of San Benito passed away on Friday, November 13, 2015, in Brownsville. He was born on August 28, 1926, in Harlingen Valley Baptist Hospital. He attended elementary school in San Benito and Mercedes, then returned to San Benito to attend San Benito Jr. High and High School, where he graduated in 1944. He was active in scouting, receiving his Eagle Scout badge, served as El Sendero photographer, member of Quill & Scroll, National Honor Society and the Journalism Class.
After graduation in 1944 he entered the Navy and served in the South Pacific for two years. When discharged after his tour of duty he remained on the West Coast working as the official ship’s photographer on the Matson Cruise Ship Line for several years.
He came back to San Benito and enrolled in the University of Colorado in Boulder. He stayed there for two years and returned again to San Benito working in the office of Harlingen Canning Company. A teaching job was his ambition and he started studying for his BA degree while working. He attended Pan American and received his degree in 1965. After receiving his BA he started working as a biology teacher at the Weslaco High School and continued studying at A&I in Kingsville at night for his Masters in Science which he received in 1971. He worked as a high school biology teacher in Rio Hondo, Port Isabel, and closed out his teaching at San Benito High School in 1989 due to poor health. Jim was an active member of TSTA organization for many years during his teaching career and was elected the President of the local chapter; also received a Lifetime Membership in 1968.
Many of Jim’s interests were photography, crossword puzzles, jig saw puzzles (more tiny pieces the better), swimming, traveling all over the map; Europe, Mexico, USA, and he loved the beach.
Jim was preceded in death by his parents, Carl and Yuma Lee.
He is survived by one sister, Margo Rustad; two nephews, Mike (Robin) Rustad and Ronald (Carrie) Rustad; one niece, Suzanne (Tom) Celentano; two great nieces, Laura (John) Wiseman and Alyssa (Charlie) Waters; two great-great nieces, Elizabeth and Ashlyn Wiseman; and many cousins.
The family wants to thank the staff of Twinbrooke South in San Benito for caring for Jim with such tender, loving care the eleven years that he was a patient there. Rancho El Eden in Olmito also was Jim’s home for several years and they too were compassionate and caring. Jim’s remaining years were spent in the loving home of Mary Alice Zamudio of Brownsville. Her entire family made him a part of their family. They could not have been more caring, loving, patient, and supportive for him and the family. Thank you all.
There will not be a public service, only private family service. Memorials may be made to the charity of your choice or First Presbyterian Church, San Benito or Alzheimer’s Organization.
Funeral arrangements are under the direction of Trinity at Harrison Funeral Home 1002 E. Harrison Ave., Harlingen, TX 78550 (956) 364-2444. Please sign our online guest book or leave a message of condolence to the Lee Family at www.trinityfunerals.com.

SAN BENITO—Lupe H. Conde, 97, passed away on Friday, November 13, 2015 at his residence surrounded by his loving family.

Daddy was a loving, gentle, caring person. Above all, he was the best dad anyone could have and his grandchildren will cherish his lovable, wonderful memories of their grandpa. He worked for Texaco Company under Mr. Asa Lee Dodson and for Cameron County Pct. 3 under Mr. Adolf Thomae until his retirement. Lupe was a WWII Veteran who served in the U.S. Army with the 141st infantry.
He is preceded in death by his loving wife of 66 years, Maria G. Conde, daughter Lupita C. Gonzalez, and Norma C. Anzaldua, also one son in law, Johnathan Gonzalez.
Left to cherish his memories are his children Alicia (Guillermo) and John (Tyra). Also surviving him are several grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces and nephews.
Visitation was held on Monday, November 16, 2015 from 10:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m, with a rosary recited at 7:00 p.m. at Thomae Garza Funeral Home in San Benito.
Mass of resurrection was held on Tuesday, November 17, 2015 at 10:00 a.m. at St. Joseph Catholic Church with Father Isaac Emeka Eronda officiating. Burial followed to Mont Meta Memorial Park in San Benito with military honors under the direction of American Legion John Hanson Post 43.
Pallbearers were members of the Catholic War Veterans, Jose Tolento Post 1109.
Honorary pallbearers were Guillermo Salinas, Alonzo Anzaldua and his grandchildren.
You may sign the online guestbook and send words of comfort, flowers, or sympathy cards to the family of Lupe H. Conde at www.thomaegarza.com.
Funeral arrangements entrusted to the care of Thomae-Garza Funeral Home and Crematorium, 395 S. Sam Houston, San Benito, Texas, (956) 399-1331.

SAN BENITO—Adella Chidester lived nearly 103 years of active, meaningful and loving life. She recently commented  about all the changes and historic events she had witnessed. She passed away November 30 at her home in Harlingen, Texas, with friends and family at her side.
She is survived by one son, Willie, and his wife Patricia. She was blessed with a grandson, Bobby Joe, his wife Susan, and a great grandson, Tim D. Chidester. She also has a foster daughter, Zetta Thomae, who has sons Henry Jr. and Dennis.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Donald Chidester; a grandson, Nathan Chidester; her parents and three brothers.
Adella was well known for making over 350 quilts, many of which were prize winners. She was renowned for the fabulous wedding cakes she made.
She had her own beauty shop open for over 50 years in Blakesburg, Iowa; and when she retired she gave the historic little building to the city to be used as a museum since it had housed the first Post Office in town.
Adella touched many lives and had many friends with whom she visited on a regular basis. She will be missed and remembered by all who knew her.
Memorial services will be held at Golden Palms in Harlingen, Texas, and in Iowa at a later date. Memorials may be made to the Blakesburg Historic Preservation Society, P.O. Box 183, Blakesburg, Iowa 52536.
Funeral arrangements are under the direction of Trinity at Harrison Funeral Home 1002 E. Harrison Ave., Harlingen, TX 78550 (956) 364-2444.

Carlos Bernabe Meza, of San Benito, Texas, entered into eternal life with our Lord on November 30, 2015.  
He was born in San Benito, Texas to Hilario and Elvira Meza on June 11, 1927.
He is preceded in death by his parents Hilario Meza and Elvira Meza; wife, Virginia Ramos Meza; and one sister, Ninfa Meza Barrera.
He is survived by five children: Rosa (Ruben) Guerrero of Brownsville, Gloria Garcia, Carlos Meza Jr., Oscar Meza of San Benito and Arnold (Adriana) Meza from Spring. He is also survived by six grandsons, two granddaughters, eight great-grandsons, three great-granddaughters and one great-great-granddaughter.
Carlos was born in San Benito, moved to Mexico after the 1933 flood where he received his education. He later returned to San Benito where he marrried and raised his family. He lived his life fully, being remembered as always surrounded by music, dancing and his hat. He worked as a carpenter and was known to be a pilot by those closet to him, having briefly flown small aircraft.
The family would like to give a special thanks to Harlingen Nursing and Rehabilitation and their entire staff who helped with his care during his stay.
Visitation will be held on December 3, 2015 from 3:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m., with a prayer service at 7:00 p.m. at Del Angel Funeral Home in Harlingen. A brief viewing will be held on December 4, 2015 at Del Angel Funeral Home. Interment will follow to Monte Meta Cemetery in San Benito at 2:00 p.m.

SAN BENITO—Eva G. Penny was born on November 19, 1934 in San Benito, Texas and died on Thursday, December 10, 2015 at her residence in San Benito, Texas surrounded by family. She was 81 years old.
Eva worked at the San Benito Headstart for 11 years, followed by 17 years as a paraprofessional at San Benito High School. In her spare time, she enjoyed sewing, collecting antiques, and gardening. She also served as an Elder for her church community for many years.
Her parents, Andres Gonzales and Emilia Aldape Gonzales; son, Leeroy Penny; sister, Ester K. Miller; and brothers Elias Gonzalez, Andres Gonzales, Jr., and Ernesto Gonzalez, preceded her in death.
Survivors include her son, James “JD” Penny and wife Rosario Penny; three grandsons; siblings, Elizabeth (Jesus) Caballero and Abel Gonzalez; and numerous nieces and nephews.
A chapel service will commence today, Saturday, December 12, 2015 at 10:00 a.m., officiated by Reverend Thomas Johnson. Interment will then follow at Mont Meta Memorial Park.
You are invited to send your condolences to the family, sign the guestbook, and share your memories of Eva online at www.sanbenitofuneralhome.com.
Arrangements are with San Benito Funeral Home, (956) 361-9192.

Josue Rodriguez, 64, of San Benito, Texas, passed away on Saturday, December 5, 2015 at Valley Baptist Medical Center in Harlingen, Texas.
He was preceded in death by his sister, Noemi Piña; Daniel Rodriguez; and his parents, Francisco and Manuela Ybarra Rodriguez.
He is survived by his children: Josue (Elsa) Rodriguez, David (Nelda) Rodriguez, and Sarai (Arturo) Sanchez; seven grandchildren; siblings: Noe (Lina) Rodriguez, Anita (Ruben) Gonzalez, Esther Rodriguez, Elizabeth Rodriguez, and Frank Rodriguez; brother-in-law, Frank Piña; sister-in-law, Elizabeth Rodriguez; and other relatives.
Visitation was held on Tuesday, December 8, 2015 from 12:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. at Thomae-Garza Funeral Home in San Benito, Texas.
A chapel service was held at 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday, December 9, 2015 at Thomae-Garza Funeral Home. Interment followed at Mont Meta Memorial Park.
You may sign the online guestbook and send words of comfort, flowers, or sympathy cards to the family of Josue Rodriguez at www.thomaegarza.com.
Funeral arrangements entrusted to the care of Thomae-Garza Funeral Directors and Crematorium, 395 S. Sam Houston, San Benito, Texas, (956) 399-1331.

A romantic era has come to an end with passing of Viola Wise, 82, on December 10, 2015.  
She was born in San Benito, the daughter of Manuel and Rafaela Montalvo. Viola married her neighbor and sweetheart Margarito Wise.
Our mom, Viola, was one of the great beauties of her time. Because of her relentless love of life, she was able to live it to the fullest: daughter, sister, wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, socialite, business owner, teacher, confidant, and best friend. She lived life with unyielding passion and her affection was contagious to all, bringing joy and excitement to her family and friends near and far. She was loved and will be deeply missed by all.
As she dances on streets of gold with her beloved husband and loved ones, she left special instructions for all of us to celebrate her life and to live ours to its fullest through happiness and caring for one another.
The definition of cool, hip, and fun, will be remembered in the hearts of her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. GG-we will miss you, thank you for the memories.
Born August 5, 1933, Viola was the youngest of four children – her sisters Bertha Villareal (deceased), Guadalupe Garcia (Ruben), and brother Miguel Montalvo (deceased).
She is survived by her children Linda Wise Marin (Ruben), Cynthia Wise Galvan (David), Dolores Wise Barerra (Mario), J.M. Wise, and 11 grandchildren, and seven great-grandchildren.
A memorial service will be held on Sunday, December 27, 2015, 3:00 p.m. in the Rudy Garza Funeral Home Chapel of Peace.
In lieu of flowers please send donations to the Friendship of Women’s Charity, P.O. Box 3112 Brownsville, TX 78523.

SAN BENITO, TX—Guadalupe “Pete” Guzman was born in La Paloma, Texas, and on Monday, December 28, 2015 was welcomed in heaven as she was surrounded by family and friends.
She was a nurse, teacher, advocate, daughter, sister, mother, grandmother, and great grandmother. Most importantly, she was and is fervent believer and follower of our Lord Jesus Christ.
She loved, served and touched countless people.
Psalms 16:11. You make known to me the path of life, in your presence there is fullness of joy; at your right hand are pleasures forevermore.
John 10:27-28 My sheep hear my voice, and I know them and they follow me. I give them eternal life and they will never perish, and no one will snatch them out of my hand.
Visitation will be held on Saturday, January 2, 2016 from 2:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m., with family testimonials to begin at 6:00 p.m., with a rosary to follow at 7:00 p.m. at Thomae Garza Funeral Directors. Cremation will follow in accordance with her wishes.
In Lieu of flowers donations may be made to Catholic Daughters of America Court Bishop Enrique San Pedro, P.O. Box 1715, San Benito, TX 78586 in Guadalupe Guzman’s name.
You may sign the online guestbook and send words of comfort, flowers, or sympathy cards to the family of Guadalupe “Pete” Guzman at: www.thomaegarza.com.
Funeral arrangements entrusted to the care of Thomae-Garza Funeral Directors and Crematorium, 395 S. Sam Houston, San Benito, Texas, (956) 399-1331.

SAN BENITO, TX—Alfonso Hernandez entered into eternal life on January 2, 2016. 
Gunnery Sergeant Alfonso Hernandez, Sr. was born Nov. 14, 1953 and served his country for 23 years in the USMC. He was stationed at Paris Island, South Carolina, Camp Pendleton, CA, and Quantico, Virginia. Alfonso served in Desert Strom Beirut and Vietnam. He was drafted in 1972-1993 and served proudly.
Alfonso was preceded in death by his parents, Pedro and Eva Hernandez; sister, Elizabeth Hernandez; uncles, Ramiro and Hernan Sauceda; and mother-in-law, Anita L. Delgado.
He is survived by his wife, Delia Hernandez; children, Alfonso (Priscilla) Hernandez, Heather Lynn Hernandez, and Julian MTS Hernandez; and numerous grandchildren, brothers, sisters, brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law.
Visitation will be held Monday, January 11, 2016 from 6:00 p.m. and 9:00 p.m., with a prayer service at 7 p.m. at San Benito Funeral Home, 1400 W. Hwy 77, San Benito, Texas 78586 in San Benito, Texas.
Funeral services will be held on Tuesday, January 12, 2016 at 10:00 a.m. at Primera Iglesia Bautista in San Benito, TX, with Pastor Joel Garcia officiating and full military honors by American Legion Post#205. Services will conclude at the church.
You are invited to sign the guestbook or share a memory at www.buckashcraft.com.
Arrangements are with Buck Ashcraft Funeral Home, 710 Ed Carey Dr., Harlingen, Texas 78550, (956) 423-3636

HARLINGEN, TX—Petra “Petrita” M. De La Rosa, our beautiful blue-eyed inspiration, entered the gates of Heaven on January 5, 2016, surrounded by her loving family.
She was born on March 12, 1939 to Serefino Martinez and Guadalupe Sanchez.
She is survived by her devoted husband of 55 years, Luis De La Rosa; daughters, Yvonne (Bonnie) Rodriguez, Elizabeth (Betsy) Avila (Hector), and Cindy De La Rosa (Joe Cortez); grandchildren Lizette Sandoval (Juan), Dr. Joshua Rodriguez (Fiancée Dr. Cory Garza), and great-grandchildren, Lexi, Luke, and Leah Sandoval; her beloved sister, Dora S. Vela; and many loving nieces and nephews.
She is preceded in death by her parents, Seferino Martinez and Guadalupe Sanchez; her brothers, Raul S. Torrez and Simon Garcia.
Visitation was held at Trinity Funeral Home at 1002 E. Harrison Ave. in Harlingen on Friday, January 8 from 1:00-9:00 p.m. and rosary at 7:00 p.m. Funeral mass will be on Saturday, January 9 at Our Lady of the Assumption Catholic Church at 10:00 a.m., with interment following at Restlawn Memorial Park in La Feria.
Pallbearers will be Dr. Joshua Rodriguez, Juan Sandoval, Jr.; Hector Avila, J.D. Rodriguez, Michael Ramos, and Roel Torrez.
Honorary pallbearers will be Cassandra Leanne Avila, Lexi, Luke, Leah Sandoval and Joe Cortez.
Special thanks to Valley Praise Prayer Shawl Ministry, Valley Baptist Hospital 2nd Floor, 4th Floor, and ICU Nurses and Hospital Staff; ER Physicians, Dr. Joshua Rodriguez, Dr. Jesus Rodriguez, Family Practice Physicians, especially Dr. Uribe. Dr. Castillo, Annette, Lupita and Gentiva Hospice Care Staff.
Please sign online guestbook and leave a message of condolence to the family at www.trinityfunerals.com.
Funeral arrangements are under the direction of Trinity at Harrison Funeral Home.

Bobbie Jo Hutson (Allen) North passed away peacefully in her sleep Wednesday, Dec. 9, at age 84, in Floresville, near San Antonio.
Bobbie Jo, often called Bobbie, served as City Secretary of San Benito from 1967-1977, and at one point, was also named City Comptroller. She served during the administrations of Mayors C.T. “Pete” Adams and Caesar Gonzalez.
Bobbie Jo was a member of the First Baptist Churches of San Benito and Harlingen and taught Sunday School classes. She enjoyed being in the Order of Eastern Star in Harlingen, where she earned the highest position of worthy matron.
Bobbie was born Nov. 22, 1931 in Lufkin, Texas, the daughter of Kimble Hutson and Bobbie M. Atkinson Hutson. Her father, Kimble, died in a car accident when she was seven years old, and her mother later married John “J.B” Treadaway, who lovingly reared Bobbie and her older brother Louie Thomas Hutson. In 1949, Bobbie graduated from Ball High School in Galveston, and in 1951, married a Marine from Galveston, Harold Milton Allen, now of Dickinson.
Harold and Bobbie Jo had two children, Sharon Lee Allen, and Harold Ray Allen. Shortly before leaving her city job and going to work for the Harlingen Gin Co., Bobbie and Harold parted ways. She married Norman Theodore “Ted” North Jr. of Mission, who lives in Elmendorf, where they retired.
Bobbie’s family members include: son Harold Ray Allen of Glendale, AZ; daughter Sharon Allen Toth of Angleton, Texas; grandsons Harold Robert Allen, of Round Rock, John Toth III of Pearland, and Robert “Bobby” Toth of Angleton; granddaughter Stephanie Gizella Toth of Sugarland, and great grandchildren Hutson R. Allen, Bailey N. Allen and Skyla R. Toth.
A family service was held Friday, Jan. 8, in Galveston with a beautiful view of the harbor and the historical tall ship Elyssa, and another service was held at Sunset Memorial Park in San Antonio at the urn site on Jan. 11. Rev. Jerry Caspar of Southeast Baptist Church delivered the memorial message and noted Bobbie held a special place in his heart.