Ace J. Rios

With broken hearts and unending love, we announce the passing of our beloved baby boy, , who left us far too soon on June 19, 2025, at just under two years old. Born on October 11, 2023, to Isabella “Bella” Solis and Isaiah J. Rios, Ace brought immense joy and love into the lives of everyone who knew him. He was a sweet, happy baby who loved cuddles, music, and playing with his favorite toys. His little dimples and smile brought a returning smile to everyone’s face who saw him.  Ace will be forever cherished and remembered by his devoted parents; his grandparents,  Dolores Solis, Jesse (Amanda) Rios, Maria Tinoco, Deidre (Chase) Schendel-Janssen; his many loving aunts, uncles, great-aunts, great-uncles; and many cousins who adored him deeply.  He is preceded in death by his maternal great-grandparents, Celia Solis and Emilio Solis, and maternal great-aunt Diana Solis.Paternal great-grandfather Jessie Rios.  Ace’s family is finding peace that he is in Heaven, resting in the arms of Jesus. They will always look forward to being with him again one day. The blessing of his perfect life and purest presence will remain with them forever. Jesus said, “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.” Matthew 19:14.  We kindly ask that you respect the family’s wishes for privacy. Thank you for your understanding and support during this difficult time.
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Rebecca R. Reyes

Rebecca R. Reyes, Age 86 of Runge, TX passed away on June 28, 2025 in Karnes City, TX.  She was born on September 23, 1938 in Van Horn, TX to the late Aus and Isidora G. Rodriguez.  She was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother and of the Christian Faith.  She is preceded in death by her parents, Aus and Isidora G. Rodriguez; husband, Albert Reyes; sons, Rosendo Orosco, Jr., Enrique Orosco; sisters, Lily Foster, Lisa Bonilla, Maggie Cortez; brothers, Aus O. Rodriguez and Emilyo Rodriguez.  She is survived by her daughters; Celia Orosco of Runge, Isidora O. Madrigal of Runge; son Roque Orosco of Pasadena numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Visitation will be held Thursday, July 3, 2025 from 12Noon to 7PM with a Prayer Service to begin at 7PM in the Eckols Funeral Home Chapel with Pastor Natalia Mejia officiating.  Inurnment will take place at a later date.

Honorary Pallbearers are Ildefonso Martinez, III, Jerry Martinez, Ben Reyes, Sammy Orosco, Tommy Orosco, Able Orosco and Anthony Orosco.

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Irene Geneva Opiela Elliott

Irene Geneva Opiela Elliott, Age 82 of Karnes City, TX passed away on June 26, 2025 in Victoria, TX. Irene was born on May 26, 1943 in Helena, TX to the late Johnny Joe and Albina Pawelek Opiela.  Irene married Glenn D. Elliott who precedes her in death on March 5, 1962 in Karnes City, TX. She was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother and a member of Our Lady Queen of Peace Catholic Church. She is preceded in death by her parents, Johnny Joe and Albina Pawelek Opiela; husband, Glenn D. Elliott; daughter, Kathy Elliott; sisters, Lillian Martin, Helen West, Jeanette Byrd; brothers, Virgil Opiela and Frankie Opiela.  She is survived by her son, Duane Allen Elliott and wife Wendy of Beeville, TX; 4 grandchildren, 7 great-grandchildren and a many nieces, nephews and extended family members.

Visitation will be held Tuesday, July 1, 2025 from 6PM to 8Pm in the Eckols Funeral Home Chapel.  A Holy Rosary will be recited Wednesday, July 2, 2025 at 9:30AM with Funeral Mass Celebrated at 10AM at Our Lady Queen of Peace Catholic Church.  Interment will follow in the Kenedy Cemetery in Kenedy, TX.

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Eloisa Salas

 

Eloisa Salas, Age 54 of Kenedy, TX passed away on June 26, 2025 at home surrounded by her loving family.  Eloisa was born on April 18, 1971 in Kenedy to Cesario and Lydia Diaz Salas. She was a homemaker, a loving mother, grandmother, aunt, dear friend to many and a member of Our Lady Queen of Peace Catholic Church.  She is preceded in death by her daughter, Tihisha Anna Rodriguez. She is survived by her parents, Cesario and Lydia Salas of Kenedy; daughters, Ashley Nicole Baldera of Kenedy, Esther Marie Rodriguez of Kenedy; sons, George Rodriguez, Jr of Kenedy, Billy Ray Rodriguez of Kenedy; sisters, Christina Salas of Dallas, Norma Salsa of Kenedy; brother, Joey Salas of Dallas; grandchildren, Haylee Rodriguez, Makayla Segura, Elisha Segura, Jazmyn Segura, Josiah Rodriguez, Madelyn Rodriguez, Kailyn Rodriguez, Albert Rodriguez, Nathaniel Campbell, Julianna Rodriguez, Issac Rodriguez, Jose Rodriguez and numerous nieces, nephews and extended family members.

A Holy Rosary will be recited Monday, June 30, 2025 at 7PM in the Eckols Funeral Home Chapel.  Funeral Mass will be celebrated Tuesday, July 1, 2025 at 10AM at Our Lady Queen of Peace Catholic Church.  Interment will follow in the Sacred Heart Cemetery in Kenedy, TX.

Serving as Pallbearers will be: George Rodriguez, Jr., Billy Rodriguez, Frank Campbell, Elisha Segura, Victor Monsevais Elias Monsevais. Honorary Pallbearers are Nathaniel Campbell and Albert Rodriguez.

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William Franklin Hunt

William Franklin Hunt, known to all as Bill, died peacefully in the home he built, surrounded by the family he loved, on June 24, 2025. Born in Alice, Texas, on May 29, 1932, to Roy Edwin and Alma (Listenbee) Hunt, Bill graduated from William Adams High School before answering the call to serve in the U.S. Army. While stationed in Charleston, West Virginia, one evening a pretty girl noticed the name embroidered on the western shirt of that Texas cowboy and said the two words that would shape the next 72 years: “Hi Bill.” He married that girl, Shirley Whitley, on August 3, 1954, and together they returned to Texas, eventually settling in Stockdale.  Bill was a hardworking man, dedicated to providing for his family and serving his community. He was an active member of First Baptist Church of Stockdale and a proud member of the Cherokee Nation. Over the years, he served as Master of both Stockdale Masonic Lodge #470 and San Marcos Masonic Lodge #342, Patron of Stockdale Eastern Star, and as a member of the Stockdale ISD Board of Trustees.  In retirement, Bill took up woodworking and created many beautiful pieces that his family cherishes. His days were spent riding his “go-go” out to the garden or shop in the morning, followed by afternoons of “westerns and siestas.”  He is preceded in death by his parents, his brother George, and his daughter Margie, who now rests near him. He is survived by his beloved wife of almost 72 years, Shirley, and his children: W.F. (Billy) Hunt Jr., Brady (Dawn) Hunt, and Lisa (Charlie) Rozier. His legacy lives on in a lively group of granddaughters and great-granddaughters (plus a couple of boys they managed to bring in).

A graveside ceremony will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, June 28, 2025, at Nockenut Cemetery, led by Pastor Kevin Skinner and under the direction of Eckols Funeral Home. Visitation will begin at 10:30 a.m. Chad Jurisic, Eric Kuntschik, Ethan Mendel, and Randy Kay will serve as pallbearers.

“A hardworking man leaves behind more than brick and sweat. He leaves a foundation of strength, love and purpose.”

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Fabian Salinas Leal

Fabian S. Leal, age 80, born on January 30, 1945, in Kenedy, Texas, passed away peacefully on June 15, 2025, surrounded by his daughters and the love of all his family.  Fabian was a man of quiet grit and deep roots. He spent much of his life in Victoria, Texas, where he made a living as an autopaint and body mechanic before owning his own auto body shop. In his retired years, he continued to restore vehicles—evenclassic cars—finding joy and passion in bringing old things back to life. He was a caring and loving father, grandfather, and great grandfather.   A lover of a good Texas storm, road trips, and time spent outdoors, Fabian lived with quiet resilience and determination—never one to be fazed by hurricanes, tornadoes, or even the whirlwind that came with having three daughters. He found pleasure in feeding ducks at Victoria Riverside Park, relaxing at Blue Waters, and simple roadside picnics.

He is survived by his daughters, Priscilla Leal, Melissa Leal Davila, and Rachel Leal Davis (Jonathan J. Davis). His grandchildren include Priscilla’s children: Robert Palacios, Jr., Alicia Palacios, and Savannah Anderson, Melissa’s son: Matthew Davila, Rachel’s children: Kevin Davis, Kenton Davis, and Kameron Davis. His great-grandchildren include Serenah, Sierra, Marquis, Robert III, Samuel, Elliot, Everett, and one more is expected soon.

Fabian is also survived by his sisters Mary Arguellez, Patricia Barnes, and Elena Hernandez, and brothers Paul, David, Felipe, and Tony Leal. He is preceded in death by his parents, Pablo and Eva Leal, and his brothers, Cleo, Benny, and Stephen.

Fabian’s family cherishes the memories, stories, courage, and tenacity he brought into their lives. To honor his enduring spirit, they invite you to embark on a road trip, cast a fishing line, or simply enjoy a good Texas storm – and remember him fondly.

To honor Fabian’s memory, the family kindly asks that instead of flowers, you consider a contribution to cancer research, helping others who may face similar health journeys.

A Holy Rosary will be recited Friday, June 20, 2025 at 7PM in the Eckols Funeral Home Chapel. Funeral Mass will be Celebrated Saturday, June 21, 2025 at 10AM at Our Lady Queen of Peace Catholic Church with the Rev. Robert Ploch officiating. May we find comfort in knowing he is with Jesus.

 

 

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Carlos L. Morales

Carlos L. Morales, age 78, of Victoria, TX, formally from Kenedy, TX, passed away June 7, 2025.  He was born on February 28, 1947, in Beeville, TX to the late Ben C. and Petra Lopez Morales. He married Mary Jane Garza on July 20, 1991 in Kenedy, TX.  He was a loving husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather, retired from the oil field and was of the Catholic faith.  He is preceded in death by his parents, Ben C. and Petra Lopez Morales, son Karlos Morales and grandson Stephen Scott Guinn.  He is survived by his wife, Mary Jane Morales; his daughters Cecilia Dedear of Victoria, TX, Gloria Leal of San Antonio, TX, Lucinda Bentura Perez of Houston, TX, Mary Helen Rodriguez of Victoria, TX, and Teresa Correas of Pettus, TX; his sons Raul Morales of Kenedy, TX, Eusebio Morales of Kenedy, TX, John Christopher Morales of Victoria, TX, Antonio Rodriguez, Jr. of Victoria, TX, Pedro Rodriguez of Victoria, TX, Julian Bentura, Jr. of Woodsboro, TX and Gilbert Bentura, Sr. of Alvin, TX; 33 grandchildren and 25 great grandchildren; his brother Ray Morales of Victoria, TX.

The Holy Rosary will be recited Monday, June 16, 2025 at 7pm in the Eckols Funeral Home Chapel.  Funeral Mass will be celebrated Tuesday, June 17, 2025 at 10am at Our Lady Queen of Peace Catholic Church with the Rev. Robert Ploch officiating.  Interment will follow in the Loma Alta Cemetery.

Serving as pallbearers will be Ryan Morales, Eusebio Morales, John Christopher Morales, Pedro Rodriguez, Tony Rodriguez, Zeke Gonzales, Lee Rubio and Dakota Garza.

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Josephine Lopez Duenes

Josephine Lopez Duenes was born on September 18, 1943 in Pawnee, Texas to Daniel and Feliciana Duenes left this world peacefully on June 9, 2025.  She was a devoted mother to Barry Meza, Brenda Meza and Raymond Meza, Jr.  She was a life-long Baptist and was a member of the First Baptist Church, Seguin, TX and enjoyed being involved in missionary trips to Mexico, where she selflessly served as a translator and touched the lives of many.  Her dedication to serving others extended beyond her church, as she was always eager to help her family, friends and community.  Her legacy of service and compassion will continue to inspire those whose lives she touched. She was preceded in death by her parents Daniel and Feliciana Lopez Duenes, brothers Daniel Duenes, Jr., Paul Duenes and Rev. Domingo Duenes, sisters Juana Hernandez and Lupe Noyola.  She is survived by her children Barry (Shannon) Meza, Austin, TX, Brenda Meza, Seguin, TX and Raymond Meza, Jr., Houston, TX; her siblings Willie Duenes, Frank (Ofilia) Duenes, Tony Duenes, Isabele (Adam) Zepeda, Freddy (Joann) Duenes, Eliseo Duenes and Linda (Ralph) Mata; her grandchildren Sarah Meza Sanchez and Jaden Meza of Austin, TX, Dirk Kramer, Jr. and David Kramer of Seguin, TX, Kaya Flores of Round Rock, TX, Mattie Bowman Flowers and Clayton of Colorado City, TX and Kenzie Bowman, Splendora, TX, Blake and Becky Masuccio ; great grandchildren Avery Flores, Light Flores, Dallie Flowers, and Baun Masuccio.

Visitation will be held Friday, June 13, 2025, from 6pm to 8pm in the Eckols Funeral Home Chapel.  Services will be Saturday, June 14, 2025, at 10am in the Eckols Funeral Home Chapel, with David Zepeda officiating.  Interment will follow in Our Lady of Guadalupe Cemetery in Pawnee, TX.

Serving as Pallbearers: Willie Hernandez, Daniel Baldaramos, David Kramer, David Zepeda, Rickie Duenes, and Robert Sczepanik

Honorary Pallbeares will be: Dirk Lance Kramer, Jr. and Jaden Paul Meza.

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James “Bubba” Matthews

James “Bubba” Matthews

March 15, 1936 – June 1, 2025

James “Bubba” Matthews, age 89, passed away peacefully at his home on June 1, 2025.  Born on March 15, 1936, in San Antonio, TX, Bubba lived a long and fulfilling life devoted to his family, his community, and the land he loved.  A proud graduate of Kenedy High School, Bubba dedicated his career to agriculture, a field that reflected his strong work ethic and deep roots in Texas.  He was a respected member of the Kenedy Masonic Lodge and proudly served as Grand Master of the Shriners. Bubba was a devoted husband to his beloved wife, Lucille Matthews.  They were high school sweethearts and in October they would have been married for 70 years.  He was a loving father to James Harold Matthews Jr. “Jimmy” who lived in Tennessee (deceased), Sandy Matthews Garcia from Victoria, Virginia Matthews Holt from San Antonio, Sharon Matthews Hendrix (Maverick Hendrix) from Marble Falls.  He was preceded in death by his son James Matthews Jr., his parents Elvin Matthews and Lillian Matthews, and his brother Kenneth Matthews. He leaves behind a large and loving legacy including 19 grandchildren and 22 great grandchildren, who will cherish memories of camping and fishing trips spent with their Big Daddy.

Bubba’s life will be celebrated with a visitation service on Wednesday, June 4, 2025 at 6:00-8:00pm at Eckols Funeral Home, Kenedy, TX.  The funeral will also be held at Eckols Funeral Home on Thursday, June 5, at 10:00am with graveside service to follow at Kenedy Cemetery.

Bubba will be remembered for his quiet strength, generous heart, and unwavering love for his family.  In his honor, may we carry forward his example of hard work, devotion, and the simple joys of life spent outdoors with those we love.

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Charles Pettus Reagan

In loving memory of Charles Pettus Reagan, born February 23, 1937, in Charco, TX, who passed away on May 24, 2025.   Charles is survived by his loving wife, Donnie Reagan,  his daughters Deborah Stockton and Susan Hatcher and his son, Charles Mark Reagan as well as 5 grandchildren and 6 great grandchildren.   Charles was a man of many talents and passions, known for his roles as a farmer, rancher, welder, and independent businessman in automotive repair.  He was never idle, always pressing to do more, including his Daddy’s Hands lawn care service . He greatly enjoyed drag car racing as well as fishing in his spare time. Throughout his life, he took great pride in his work and was admired for his commitment and skill. His dedication to his work was matched only by his love for his family.   But above all, Charles loved the Lord.   His desire to please his Father in Heaven was seen in everything he did.   To know each and every person he came in contact with would have a personal relationship with Christ was the most important and honoring duty he was determined to complete.  And boy did he!    To see his children and grandchildren and great grands follow in Christ’s  footsteps completed his ministry here on earth.   And now he hears “Well done My good and faithful servant!”   That is what we live for.   Of course we miss him but he will continue to live on in our hearts.

Visitation will be held on Saturday, May 31, 2025 from 12:30pm to 1:00pm with Services at 1:00pm to celebrate the life of Charles at the  First Baptist Church Kenedy.  Interment will follow in the Runge Cemetery in Runge, TX.  All are invited back for a reception and more fellowship to celebrate the life of Charles immediately following the interment back at  FBC Kenedy.

Charles Pettus Reagan will be remembered for his love of the land, his dedication to his work, and his love for the Lord and his family.  May we find comfort in knowing he is with Jesus.

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