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Mario Carrillo Ruiz – May 14, 1975 to April 3, 2026 (50)

Mario Carrillo Ruiz, 50, of Cuero passed away Friday, April 3, 2026, in Austin. He was born on May 14, 1975, in El Acebuche, Guanajuato, Mexico to Mario Carrillo Sanchez and Nicolasa Ruiz Gonzales.

Mario spent his childhood surrounded by his siblings and loving parents. In his late teens, he moved to California in pursuit of the American Dream. While living there, he married Ana Laura Tapia in Hayward, California, and built a long career in the furniture industry, where he worked for twenty‑three years until the COVID pandemic.

Known for his generosity, Mario was always willing to help those around him. He loved music and was often found singing and dancing to his favorite songs. In 2020, he moved to Cuero to be closer to his family and began working for Serrano Brothers Fencing as a fence builder while facing growing health challenges.

In Cuero, he was able to spend meaningful time with the family he cherished so deeply. Mario’s light, warmth, and presence remained with them until his final breath on April 3rd — a bright spirit gone far too soon.

He is survived by his parents; his wife, Ana Laura Tapia; daughter, Siani Carrillo; son, Mario Izael Carrillo; sisters, Ma Del Carmen Carrillo Ruiz (Jose), Rosa Maria Carrillo Ruiz (Francisco), Maria Guadalupe Carrillo Ruiz (Juan Manuel) and Gabriela Carrillo Esparza; brothers, Antonio Carrillo Ruiz and Mario Carrillo Esparza and four grandchildren.

Pallbearers include Antonio Carrillo, Mario Izael Carrillo, Jose Serrano, Francisco Serrano, Juan Manuel Parra, Juan Manuel Parra Jr., Alberto Carrillo Medina and Mario Carrillo Esparza.

Honorary pallbearers include Mario Carrillo Sanchez, Ramiro Carrillo Medina, Juan Serrano, Ricardo Carrillo Medina, Agustin Ruiz, Felipe Ruiz, Efren Lozano and Salvador Carrillo Medina.

Visitation was held Friday, April 10, 2026, 5:00 – 7:00 PM at Freund Funeral Home with a rosary to be recited at 6:30 PM. Funeral Services will be held Saturday, April 11, 2026, 9:00 AM at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church with Father Caleb Krischke officiating. Interment will follow at Hillside Cemetery.

You may sign the guestbook or send condolences at www.freundfuneralhome.com.

            Obituary provided as a community courtesy by Pat Trevino   

Shawver‑Savino Appointed First Assistant District Attorney for the Fighting 24th

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Pat Trevino | April 10, 2026

DEWITT COUNTY, Texas — District Attorney Brian Michael Cromeens has announced the appointment of Jessica Shawver‑Savino as the new First Assistant District Attorney for the 24th Judicial District. She was formally sworn in by the Honorable Judge Julie Bauknight, marking a significant addition to the leadership team serving DeWitt, Goliad, and Refugio Counties.

Shawver‑Savino joins the office with nearly a decade of prosecutorial experience across multiple regions of Texas. After earning her law degree from St. Mary’s University School of Law and becoming licensed in 2017, she quickly established herself as a capable courtroom prosecutor.

Her career began in Wharton County, where she served as Misdemeanor Chief Prosecutor. She later transitioned to the 63rd Judicial District, taking on major felony cases involving narcotics, human trafficking, and border‑related crimes across Val Verde, Kinney, and Terrell Counties. Her performance in that district led to her promotion as First Assistant District Attorney, where she oversaw complex criminal matters and daily operations.

Shawver‑Savino most recently served with the Victoria County District Attorney’s Office, expanding her work in felony prosecution and handling a wide range of responsibilities including civil asset forfeiture, post‑conviction litigation, protective orders, and open records issues.

Beyond the courtroom, she has contributed to higher education as an instructor in Criminal Justice at Texas A&M University–Victoria, helping prepare future professionals entering the field.

District Attorney Cromeens said the district is gaining a prosecutor with both experience and dedication, noting that Shawver‑Savino’s background will strengthen the office’s mission to serve victims and uphold justice throughout the Fighting 24th.

DeWitt County Shows United Support for Child Abuse Awareness Month

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Pat Trevino | April 10, 2026

DeWitt County is standing together this April as residents, organizations, and local leaders join in recognizing Child Abuse Awareness Month. Across the county, community members are wearing blue to send a clear message: every child matters, and their safety and well‑being remain a shared priority.

The initiative highlights the importance of collective responsibility in protecting children. Families, schools, first responders, nonprofits, faith communities, and neighbors all play a vital role in creating safe environments where young people can grow, thrive, and be heard.

(Contributed photo)

Throughout the month, blue attire and displays serve as visible reminders of the county’s commitment to prevention, awareness, and advocacy. Local officials emphasize that safeguarding children requires vigilance, compassion, and the willingness to speak up when something doesn’t seem right.

Community leaders encourage residents to continue supporting one another, reporting concerns when necessary, and fostering a culture where every child in DeWitt County feels valued and protected.

Carol Renee Wagner – March 13, 1966 to March 20, 2026 (60)

On the morning of Friday, March 20, 2026, Carol Renee Wagner, known as Renee or simply “Nay,” passed on after a brief but determined fight with pancreatic cancer. She was 60 years old and spent her last days embraced by love and surrounded by family.

Renee was born on March 13, 1966, in Victoria to Carroll Ray Wagner and Norma Gayle (Holster) Wagner, both of Cuero. Her sister, Melissa Ann (Wagner) Christal, was at first quite confused by the newest addition to the family, but they quickly became the best of friends. Even though Renee was the younger sister, she acted more like the protective big sister, always looking over Melissa. However, those roles would seemingly reverse in Renee’s final months, with Melissa helping care for Renee through all of her treatments.

The Wagner’s moved to various places including Houston and Freeport. They would eventually settle in Brookshire, Texas, for the majority of her childhood before finding their way back to Houston.

What started as a high school summer job at a car dealership became a lifelong vocation at Mossy Nissan (formerly Mossy Oldsmobile). Renee worked in the parts department for almost 43 years and was adored by her co-workers.

She had a son, Michael Ruben Muñoz, in the late spring of 1986. She believed it was one of the best things to ever happen to her; she loved being a mother, and her son was one of her greatest points of pride.

Her granddaughter, Norma Geneva Raye Muñoz, came along in June of 2020 and quickly became the light of her life. “Nay,” as Norma called her, did everything she could to be there for her critical firsts, including her first steps. She was not only a grandmother but a best friend—always willing to play, share secrets, and have sleepovers. Nay also lovingly embraced many people in Norma’s life, becoming an honorary grandmother to Norma’s best friend, Marlo Messick, and little sister, Hazel Messick.

Renee was a loving daughter, sister, mother, and grandmother. Despite her unassuming disposition, Renee was a tough and sensitive woman with an enormous heart full of every messy contradiction you can think of. She had an amazing talent for making you feel like family, even if you had just met. Her positive light and love will be dearly missed.

She was preceded in death by her father, Carroll Ray Wagner. She is survived by her mother, Gayle Wagner; her sister, Melissa Christal and her husband, Tom; her son, Michael Muñoz along with his partner Catie Muñoz and their daughter, Norma; and her nephew, Thomas Christal and his wife, Ashley, and their children, Kaylee and Ryder.

Visitation will be held Saturday, April 11, 2026, 1:00 PM at Freund Funeral Home with a memorial service to begin at 2:00 PM. Interment to follow at Hillside Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital at stjude.org or the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network at pancan.org.

                       Obituary provided as a community courtesy by Pat Trevino                                     

Marilyn L. Hopes – July 17, 1958 to April 2, 2026 (67)

Marilyn L. Hopes, 67, of Cuero passed away peacefully on Thursday, April 2, 2026 surrounded by her loving family. She was born July 17, 1958 in Cuero to the late Robert and Mary Louise Dailey Mathis. She worked as a CNA at Cuero Nursing and Rehab caring for the elderly for over twenty years. In her most recent employment with CISD, she found a new love for working with children as a paraprofessional. She loved spending time with her family and grandkids and she never met a stranger.

She is survived by her daughter, Tywanisha Adams (Keith); sisters, Sandra Lott and Katherine Newman (Victor); brothers, Rodney Mathis (Tina), Dwayne Mathis (Ludi) and Bobby Charles Mathis (Lisa Mae) and grandchildren, Peighsyn, Peyton and Paxton Lemke.

She was preceded in death by her parents; sisters, Kathleen Mathis and Eunice Cartwright and brother, John “Stokey” Mathis.

Pallbearers include Anthony Mathis, Dayton Mathis, Deveryck Mathis, Teveyin Mathis, Darius Mathis, Justin Wesley, Andrew Mathis, and Devin Mathis.

Honorary pallbearers include Averlynn Mathis, Michael Lott, Keith Lemke, and Kaedon Bryer.

Burial at New Hope Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made to donor’s choice.

                      Obituary provided as a community courtesy by Pat Trevino                   

Cuero Community Honors Legacy of Emily Davis With Bench and Statue Dedication

Pat Trevino | April 9, 2026

Cuero, Tx –The Cuero Chamber of Commerce hosted a heartfelt ceremony today, bringing together community members, local leaders, and loved ones to honor the life and legacy of Keep Cuero Beautiful Inc. past board member Emily Davis. The event featured a ribbon cutting and the dedication of two new benches along the community’s cherished walking trail—one honoring Emily’s memory and another recognizing H‑E‑B for its continued support of local beautification efforts.

Emily Davis was widely known for her commitment to service and her passion for keeping Cuero clean, green, and welcoming. Friends and colleagues recalled how she could often be seen walking the trail with her beloved dog, Max, and volunteering her time to projects that strengthened the community she loved.

(Contributed photo)

In tribute to her impact, a beautifully crafted bench has been installed along the very path she frequented. Beside it stands a bronze statue of Max, symbolizing the companionship and joy that defined many of Emily’s days on the trail. The dedication brought together Emily’s family, friends, and fellow volunteers for a touching moment of remembrance and gratitude.

Across from Emily’s bench, a second bench was unveiled in recognition of H‑E‑B and its generous Trees for Texas Grant, which supported the planting of new trees along the walking trail. The grant has played a key role in enhancing the natural beauty of the area, furthering the mission of Keep Cuero Beautiful and contributing to a greener future for the community.

(Contributed photo)

Today’s ceremony served as a powerful reminder of the lasting influence individuals and organizations can have when they invest in their community. Emily Davis’s legacy—rooted in service, love, and stewardship—will continue to be felt with every step taken along the trail she cherished.

Keep Cuero Beautiful Encourages Community to Register for 2026 DMWT Cleanup on April 11

Pat Trevino | April 9, 2026

CUERO, Texas — Keep Cuero Beautiful (KCB) is calling on residents, businesses, school groups, and civic organizations to register for the 2026 Don’t Mess With Texas (DMWT) Cleanup, scheduled for Saturday, April 11.

Participants may pre‑register by calling the Cuero Chamber of Commerce at 361‑275‑2112, or simply arrive the morning of the event. Check‑in begins at 8:30 a.m. at the Market Pavilion next to the Cuero Library, where volunteers will receive breakfast bites, assignments, and cleanup supplies.

The annual cleanup is part of the statewide Don’t Mess With Texas Trash‑Off, a coordinated effort encouraging Texans to reduce litter and beautify their communities. Teams will be assigned to various roadway and community locations to collect litter before returning to weigh their bags.

To inspire friendly competition, the top three teams collecting the most litter will each receive $100, which they can “pay forward” to a local nonprofit of their choice.

KCB shared photos of the 2025 winning teams, highlighting the community spirit and teamwork that define the event each year.

Organizers say they hope to see strong participation again in 2026, noting that even a few hours of volunteer work can make a visible difference across DeWitt County.

Traffic Stop in Yoakum Leads to Narcotics Seizure and Three Arrests

Pat Trevino | April 8, 2026

YOAKUM, Texas — A routine traffic stop conducted by Yoakum Police late Tuesday night resulted in the discovery of multiple narcotics and the arrest of three individuals, according to information released by the department.

Officers initiated the stop on an unidentified vehicle and, during the course of the investigation, conducted a search that revealed a variety of illegal substances. All three occupants were taken into custody at the scene.

(Contributed photo)

The Yoakum Police Department stated that the incident reflects its continued commitment to proactive enforcement efforts aimed at reducing illegal drug activity within the community. Officials emphasized that targeted patrols and investigative work remain central to their strategy for maintaining public safety.

No additional details regarding the identities of the suspects or the specific narcotics recovered have been released at this time.

Yoakum Gears Up for the 98th Annual Tom Tom Festival

Pat Trevino | April 6, 2026

YOAKUM, Texas — The countdown to summer is officially underway as the community prepares for the 98th Annual Yoakum Tom Tom Festival, set for June 5–6. Long known as one of the region’s most spirited and historic celebrations, this year’s festival promises two full days of pageantry, music, competition, and family‑friendly fun.

Festivities begin with the beloved Yoakum Royalty Pageant, a tradition that highlights local youth and sets the tone for a weekend of community pride. Throughout both days, visitors can enjoy a packed schedule of events including the popular BBQ Cook-Off, Kids’ Games, arts and crafts vendors, and a wide selection of food trucks.

Live entertainment will take center stage with a lineup that blends Texas favorites and local talent. Little Texas headlines Friday night, bringing their signature country sound to the main stage. Additional performances throughout the weekend include Shiner’s Second Wind, Black Cat Choir, Crossroadzz Crue, and The Tainted Heart Band, ensuring continuous music from noon into the evening.

Saturday morning kicks off with the Tomato Trail 5K Run at 7:30 a.m., followed by the Downtown Parade, a long-standing highlight that draws families, organizations, and creative floats from across the region. The Kiddie Parade offers younger participants their moment to shine, while the Car Show and Rodeo add classic Tom Tom flair to the weekend lineup.

With nearly a century of tradition behind it, the Yoakum Tom Tom Festival remains a cornerstone of local culture—celebrating community, heritage, and the start of summer in true South Texas style. Residents and visitors alike are encouraged to mark their calendars and “get ready to Tom‑Tom” as Yoakum welcomes thousands for another unforgettable year.

Coverage provided by Pat Trevino, Cuero Online News

Cuero Fire Department Engages Students at Cuero High School Career Day

Pat Trevino | April 3, 2026

Cuero, Tx -The Cuero Fire Department spent Thursday morning at Cuero High School’s College & Career Fair, giving students an up‑close look at what it means to serve as a firefighter and first responder.

Firefighters guided students through hands‑on demonstrations, including trying on bunker gear, exploring tools and equipment, and learning how each piece is used during emergency calls. Students asked thoughtful questions about training, certifications, daily responsibilities, and the teamwork required to keep a community safe.

(Contributed photo)

Beyond the gear and demonstrations, firefighters emphasized the heart of the profession — service, preparedness, and stepping up for others in moments that matter most. Their conversations highlighted the importance of discipline, communication, and commitment, whether responding to a fire, medical emergency, or community need.

The department expressed appreciation to Cuero ISD for the invitation and to the students for their interest and engagement. Events like this, they noted, help strengthen community connections and may even inspire future firefighters.