GAME DAY THROUGH PHOTOS
Game in Gonzales, Texas, Friday Night
Gonzles- Black Team Vs Cuero - Green Team
Black Team 7 – Green Team 5
Close Call on the Diamond: Grit and Growth in the Game
Black Team 7 – Green Team 5
Aubrey Ray Kelley – February 18, 1940 to April 21, 2025 (85)
CUERO: Aubrey Ray Kelley, a loved husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather, and community friend, of Cuero, Texas passed away with his family joined by his side on April 21, 2025. He was born February 18, 1940, to Clyde Blair and Agnes Rice Kelley in Hochheim, Texas.
Ray loved sports, dominoes, hunting, and being with family. He was often seen boasting his favorite colors: Gobbler Green and Aggie Maroon. Baptized by the First Baptist Church of Hochheim in the Guadalupe River, Ray was born into a farming and ranching family with 10 siblings, Ray understood hard work, competition, and the value of an education. Opportunities did not come easy for him but in his eyes, there were no boundaries for success nor excuses for failure. While attending school in Yoakum, he exhibited pigs and cattle at the local show and often won in each division. His talents in high school reached far beyond agriculture, to elected leadership roles, and many other extra-curricular activities offered by the school. Yet his passion and motivation were most effectively demonstrated on the football field as a fighting Bulldog. During his high school football career, he was unanimously voted All District Offensive and Defensive player for three consecutive years, voted All Area Team for two consecutive years, and All State Honorable Mention. Ray excelled not only on the football field but also academically, which each, earned him a football scholarship to Texas A&M upon graduating from Yoakum High School in 1958
As an Aggie, he was a member of the Corp of Cadets, football team, and lettered on the football team as a freshman. Unfortunately, his athletic career took a turn for the worst when he injured his ankle and was no longer able to play football. Academics became his priority, and he received both his Bachelor and Master of Science degree from Texas A&M College. While working on his Master’s degree he was employed by Texas A&M as Teaching Fellow and taught physical education, boxing, weight training, and volleyball. Upon graduation with his MS degree in 1963, his career led him to Seguin High School as a Math and Science teacher, and coach for football, basketball, and track and later at Ganado. While at Ganado he started their first track team, nevertheless, as a coach his achievements included an undefeated basketball team and State Semi-Finalists Football team at Seguin, District Champions in football at both schools, trained four young men to hurdle in track and all four qualified to the state finals their first year of competition.
After eight years of coaching and teaching, in 1971, Ray made his way to Cuero High School to serve as Assistant Principal and later Principal. With over 28 years as the leading administrator, Cuero High School was recognized with many regional and state awards and honors due to his leadership and strive for excellence in the classroom. Most importantly he instilled in his student’s self-discipline and to be positive role models and mentors because younger children were always watching. He was a Rotarian, Young Farmer member, and served on the UIL State Athletic Council along with many other community and academic groups and roles plus serving his country in the Texas National Guard and was honorably discharged in 1962.
Ray is survived by his wife for over 62 years, Myra Sue Burns Kelley; his two sons Stanley Kelley and wife Debbie, Tom Kelley and wife Jennifer; grandchildren Blair Kelley and wife Haley, Kelsey Kelley and fiancé Colin Soderholtz, Emily June Williams and husband Bryson, Kaley Bauer and husband Lance, Laurel Von Dohlen and husband Trey, and John Thomas Kelley; great grandchildren Ataly Kelley, Tinley Kelley, Harper Williams, Berkley Kelley, Braxton Kelley, and Aubree Bauer; brothers Karl Kelley and wife Lydie Mae; Rex Kelley and wife Adrianne; twin sister Kay Manning and husband Ray; sisters Suzanne Benes and husband Frank, Priscilla Gibson; sister-in-law, Gloria Kelley; and many nieces and nephews.
He is preceded in death by his parents, Clyde Blair and Agnes Kelley; father-in-law L.T. Burns, Jr and mother-in-law Oreon Burns; brother Bart Kelley and wife Katherine, sister Bonnie Etie and husband Howard; brother Clyde Steen Kelley and wife Audrey; sister Margaret Hinton; brother Sam Kelley; sister-in-law Rosalie Kelley; brother-in-law John Gibson, and nieces and nephews.
Visitation begins at 9:00 a.m. with Funeral Service at 10:00 a.m. on Thursday, April 24, 2025, at First Baptist Church in Cuero with Dr. Glenn Robertson officiating. Graveside ceremony will follow at Lowrance Cemetery on the family Ranch near Yoakum.
Pallbearers are: Blair Kelley, John Thomas Kelley, Braxton Kelley, Ronnie Haug, Jeff Robbins, Mike Robbins, Don Spring, and Curtis Rhodes. Honorary Pallbearers: Clyde Lee Hinton, all his nephews, the 1967-68 Seguin Matador Football Team, and all former athletes.
Memorials may be made to DeWitt-Lavaca A&M Mother’s Club in memory of Ray Kelley, 2012 Morris Community Rd, Yoakum, TX 77995, or to a charity of choice. Special thanks to Hospice of South Texas and their genuine and loving caregivers.
Milton Douglas Wright – March 25, 1939 to April 15, 2025 (86)
YOAKUM: Milton Douglas Wright, died peacefully on April 15, 2025. He was 86 years old. He was born March 25, 1939 in Iowa Park, Texas to Bill and Katie (Mann) Wright.
He adored his loving wife Shirley for 27 years. They built a life and business together in Yoakum, Texas after meeting later in life. Doug and Shirley had Wright’s Tax Service for 15 years and every year he called April 15th “Drop Dead Day”. Apparently, his work on earth was complete when he chose April 15th to pass away!
He met his family in church when a single mom and her two kids sat next to him. He raised his son Nathan Poulter and daughter Stephanie Mahoney and loved them as only a true father could. He had 8 grandchildren: Austyn, Parker, Collin, Anson, Oliver, Nolan, Beckett, and Everett. They were his true joy. He lived for all the laughs, naps and playtime with them every chance he got.
Doug leaves behind siblings: Stan Wright and Annell McAllister, as well as a devoted extended family. He was a faithful member and leader in the Yoakum Church of Christ. He loved Christ and welcomed His embrace in the end. Doug always had a good story to tell, a life lesson to impart, or a listening ear. He was a big guy with an even bigger heart and presence. He was a friend to all he met and the world was better because of him.
He is preceded in death by his parents; infant brother, Harold Wright; granddaughter, Parker Kay Poulter and grandson, Beckett Walter Mahoney.
Burial at Hebron Cemetery.
A Huge Congratulations and Best Wishes to Emma Fling!
Emma Fling is taking her talents to the 3A State Golf Tournament on April 28th & 29th! As she tees off with the best, let’s rally together as a community and show our support for this extraordinary athlete. Her dedication and hard work embody the true spirit of a Yoakum Bulldog.
Let’s cheer Emma on as she represents Yoakum with pride and excellence at the state level. We’re behind you all the way, Emma—Bulldog Nation is roaring with pride!
Cuero Regional Hospital Honors Medical Laboratory Professionals
Cuero, TX – April 27, 2025
As Cuero Regional Hospital celebrates Medical Laboratory Professionals Week, the contributions of its skilled laboratory personnel take center stage. Observed annually during the last full week of April, this year’s celebration ran from April 20 to 26, spotlighting the critical role laboratory professionals play in modern medicine.
Medical Laboratory Professionals Week (M.L.P.W.), first established in 1975 by the American Society for Medical Technology—now the American Society for Clinical Laboratory Science (A.S.C.L.S.)—serves as a tribute to the behind-the-scenes heroes who ensure the accuracy and reliability of tests that guide diagnosis and treatment. This initiative underscores the profound impact of lab science on the healthcare system, often undervalued despite its life-saving contributions.
At Cuero Regional Hospital, the dedicated laboratory team stands as the backbone of patient care. From testing and diagnostics to ensuring the precision of results, these professionals work tirelessly to uphold high standards of medical excellence. Their efforts aid physicians in making informed decisions, ultimately improving health outcomes for the community.
“Lab professionals are the unsung heroes of healthcare,” said a hospital spokesperson. “Their dedication, expertise, and attention to detail are vital to every patient’s journey. This week, we take the time to express our gratitude and recognize their indispensable contributions.”
As the celebration concludes, Cuero Regional Hospital salutes its laboratory personnel for their unwavering commitment to excellence in healthcare. Their passion and precision remain instrumental in saving lives and enhancing patient well-being.
Thank you, lab heroes—you truly make a difference!
Cuero Lady Gobblers Triumph in Bi-District Championship
The Cuero Lady Gobblers showcased their dominance on the softball field, defeating the Pearsall Mavericks with a commanding 10-0 victory in just five innings. Freshman Reagan Reitz delivered the highlight of the game with a walk-off grand slam, sealing the win in spectacular fashion. The Lady Gobblers’ performance earned them the title of bi-district champions, and they now advance to the next round of the playoffs. The Cuero community celebrates their achievement with pride, rallying behind the team as they continue their journey.
The Green Cow Creamy Partners with Cuero Pecan House and Cuero Pecan House Cafe
Cuero residents, it’s time to celebrate—our beloved green cow is making a grand return! This exciting news is sure to delight dessert lovers across town. Cuero Pecan House and Cuero Pecan House Cafe are now serving up their delicious, decadent ice cream flavors to satisfy all your cravings. Get ready to indulge!
Customers can now scoop up their favorite treats in Single Servings, Pints, Quarts, and Half Gallons at both locations. Whether you’re stopping by for a quick fix or stocking up for the week, there’s a size to satisfy every craving.
Cathryne Lee Woltz Lempa – September 29, 1943 to April 8, 2025 (81)
Cathryne Lee Woltz Lempa, 81, left our world for a heavenly existence on April 8th, 2025. She was born on September 29, 1943, to Clifton Wesley and Mary Ellen Thompson Woltz in Morehead City, North Carolina, where Clifton was attending training at the local naval base. They remained there until Cathy’s father returned from WWII and in 1945, Cathy and her parents returned to Bucyrus, Ohio, where her brother, Tom was born. The following year, her father accepted a position with Cooper-Bessemer Company in Mount Vernon, Ohio and the family moved there in 1948. Soon thereafter the family welcomed Cathy’s brother, Jim. Clifton was then offered a promotion which brought the family to Dallas, where Cathy began first grade at University Park Elementary School.
At the peak of the polio epidemic, nine-year-old Cathy was diagnosed with the condition, which affected the major muscle groups, causing paralysis in many children and adults. She bravely endured surgery, numerous treatments, physical therapy, leg braces, and crutches. Polio affected her for the rest of her life, but she never let it define her. She completed her first year of high school in Dallas, then the family followed her father’s job this time to Shreveport. Cathy graduated from C. E. Byrd High School in 1962, then attended Louisiana State University in Baton Rouge, where she was an active member of Phi Mu Sorority. She would remain active in Panhellenic for decades to come.
Her early work life centered around social services in various cities in south Louisiana and Texas. In the mid-60’s, she moved to the Houston area, where she met B.J. Lempa, Jr., an engineering student at the University of Houston. They married on August 15, 1970. His job as a civil structural engineer would bring them to various parts of Louisiana and Texas, but they would spend the majority of their married life residing in Lumberton, north of Beaumont.
Their first daughter Aimee was born in 1975, then the couple welcomed Kelly in 1977. After the birth of her children, Cathy became a devoted homemaker. She was always involved in her girls’ activities, serving as a leader in school PTAs, chaperoning church youth group, and organizing and hosting countless beach outings with their friends during high school. Many affectionately referred to her as the “Cool Mom”, which she considered the ultimate compliment. Later she became a proud Aggie mom and recently, a proud Aggie grandmother. She enjoyed serving in leadership roles in the Beaumont Aggie Mom’s Club when her daughters attended Texas A&M University.
She was an incredibly talented quilter, spending decades as an active member of the Austin Area Quilt Guild, the Golden Triangle Quilt Guild and the Victoria Quilt Guild. Her beautiful quilts, which are true works of art, won many awards at quilt shows all over Texas and beyond. Cathy forged many lifelong friendships through her quilting adventures. Her legacy lives on in these precious treasures.
Always an animal lover, Cathy also developed a passion for pet therapy. She spent several years visiting nursing homes, hospitals, libraries, churches, and schools with her beloved dog Gypsy. Cathy also helped train other therapy dogs and handlers through Paws 4 Love – Southeast Texas.
Throughout her life, she was a devoted Methodist and enjoyed fellowship and friendship with many she met through church.
She was very sociable and made friends everywhere she went. She never left home without wearing lipstick and always had a cheerful smile and an upbeat attitude.
Even though Cathy had many health struggles toward the end of her life, she never lost her positive outlook! She cherished her four grandchildren and enjoyed hosting them for “Grammy Camp” in the summers as they grew up.
She is survived by her children, Aimee Lempa Hardin of Dallas, Kelly Lempa Balfour and husband, Todd of League City; grandchildren, Jackson and Julian Hardin, Kendall and Kamryn Balfour; brothers, Tom (Heather) Woltz and Jim (Lucy) Woltz; mother-in-law, Helen Lempa; sister-in-law, Dorothy Dearing; brothers-in-law, Michael (Debbie) Lempa, Leonard Lempa, and Thomas (Sharon) Lempa, as well as numerous nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her husband of 51 years, Bernard John Lempa, Jr.; parents, Clifton and Mary Ellen Woltz; aunts, Betty (Dick) Weiser, Barbara (John) Stauffer and Jane (James) Offtermatt; and father-in-law, B.J. Lempa, Sr.
A memorial service will be held in her honor on Saturday, May 10th, 2025, 12:00 PM at John Wesley Methodist Church in Victoria, Texas. Immediately following, there will be a reception at the church and then a graveside burial next to her husband at Hillside Cemetery in Cuero, Texas.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to an animal charity of your choice, since Cathy was a life-long pet lover.
Bertha Martha Priddy- January 25, 1932 to April 21, 2025 (93)
Bertha Martha Priddy was born on January 25, 1932, in Yorktown, Texas, to Carl Koenig and Regina Kirchner Koenig. She passed away at The Lodge at Pine Creek in Baytown, Texas, on April 21, 2025, at the age of 93. Bertha was a devoted wife, mother, Nanny, great-Nanny, and friend who touched the lives of many with her kindness and generosity.
Bertha is preceded in death by her loving husband of 58 years, John L. Priddy, brothers, Alfred Koenig and Carl Koenig, and sister, Leona Koenig. Bertha is survived by her daughter, Toni Kinney, and son-in-law Stephen Kinney; her son, Ron (Butch) Priddy, as well as four grandchildren: Lori McAdams, Cory McAdams and wife, Whitney; Ray Priddy and wife, Tara; and Robyn Priddy and husband, A.J. Bertha also had five great grandchildren: Dylan Priddy, Zoey Priddy, Tate Priddy, Avery McAdams, and Anden McAdams. She is also survived by a loving sister-in-law, Julia Koenig, and many nieces and nephews.
For many years Bertha and her husband, John, lived on the family ranch in Weesatche, Texas. Bertha and John were members of St. Andrew’s Lutheran Church in Weesatche. Bertha considered animals a gift from God and would take in every stray. She and her husband owned several heads of cattle, but few ever made it to market, more evidence of her love for animals. Gardening was her favorite hobby and many family members and friends reaped the benefits of her green thumb. In addition, she used her God given gift of quilting to make quilts for many family members. These were proof of her amazing work ethic. She prided herself on the small and straight stitches and intricate designs, further proof that each quilt was a labor of love for each family member to cherish for generations.
Bertha’s family always came first, after the animals were fed and watered, of course. She loved to clip coupons to save money every time she shopped. Her chalupas and pancakes were always something we all looked forward to when we visited. We loved to hear her yell “HOTDOG” every time she beat us at games. It didn’t matter if you were 3 yrs old or 30, she always played to win! She also loved reading, especially Nancy Drew mysteries.
Bertha’s sweet spirit and her sincere kindness will always be remembered. She was always a voice of reason for her entire family. We were all blessed to have her in our lives and know she is now watching over us.
Celebration of Life services will be conducted by Crespo and Jirrels Funeral Services at 6123 Garth Road in Baytown, Texas. Visitation will be on Friday, April 25, at 10:00 A.M. followed by the funeral service at 11:00, presided by Bro. Danny Biddy.
Interment will be at 1:00 P.M. on Saturday April 26, 2025, at the Weesatche Cemetery in Weesatche, Texas.
Honorary pallbearers include Cory McAdams, Raymond Priddy, A.J. Reyna, Gilbert Gonzalez, Luke Anderson, Josh Volking, and Gary Burns.