Josh Hubbell – May 11, 1973 to May 18, 2025 (52)
Josh Hubbell, 52, of Yorktown passed away Sunday, May 18, 2025. He was born May 11, 1973 in Victoria to JoEllen Domstead Hubbell and the late John Hubbell.
Josh is survived by his mother JoEllen Hubbell, children Ali (Ian Smith) Hubbell, Kameron (Skyelyn) Hubbell, sister Jessica Hubbell, brother Jared Hubbell and brother from another mother Terry Flores. Josh is also survived by his grandchildren; Cameron, Tatum, Kaison, Winston, baby boy Emmitt on the way in July, and many nieces and nephews.
He is preceded in death by his father John Hubbell, Wayne Sievers and Timothy Cochran.
Those he left behind will receive family and friends at Massey Funeral Home from 2-4 pm on Saturday, May 31, 2025.
Doris Jean Schlenker, – August 26, 1937 to May 25, 2025 (87)
YOAKUM: Doris Jean Schlenker, age 87 of Portland, Texas, passed away Sunday, May 25, 2025. She was born August 26, 1937 in Yoakum, Texas to Homer and Bernice Dickinson Berger.
She was a graduate of Cortland Business Institute, San Antonio College, and the University of Texas at San Antonio. She worked for many years as an executive administrative assistant, most notably at the Ritz Carlton headquarters in Atlanta, Georgia. She enjoyed spending time with her grandchildren, reading, crocheting and traveling. She was also an active member of the Unitarian Church in Victoria.
Survivors: husband of 70 years, Dr. Austin Schlenker; daughter, Heidi Ajrami (Abe); sons, Chris Schlenker (Jerri) and Scott Schlenker (Jennifer); grandchildren, Hannah, Rami, and Jenin Ajrami; and Lilly and Hank Schlenker; brothers, Homer F. Berger (Betty), Bob Berger (Sharen), Jimmy Berger (Sandy) and Clay Berger (Paula).
Preceded in death by her parents and a sister, Linda Berger.
A Celebration of Life will be held, Saturday, June 7, 2024 at 2:00 p.m. at Thiele-Cooper Funeral Home in Yoakum with Reverend Kiya Heartwood officiating.
Memorial contributions may be given to Hospice of South Texas or St. Jude’s Children Hospital.
Cuero Welcomes Congressman Michael Cloud for Community Event
CUERO, TX – Residents of Cuero and surrounding areas are invited to a special gathering with Congressman Michael Cloud on Thursday, May 29, 2025, from 5:30 PM to 7:00 PM at the Cuero Country Club, located at 1305 ES Railroad St.
This event provides an opportunity for community members to engage with Congressman Cloud, discuss important local and national issues, and gain insights into his ongoing legislative efforts. Attendees will have the chance to ask questions, connect with fellow constituents, and learn more about his work in Washington.
The event is hosted by the DeWitt County GOP, and those planning to attend are asked to RSVP via email at DeWittCoTXGOP@gmail.com.
Community members are encouraged to take part in this forum to share their perspectives and stay informed on the latest developments affecting Cuero and the region.
Cuero ISD Hosts Foam Party to Kick Off Summer
CUERO, TX – Cuero ISD is kicking off the summer season with a Foam Party for students and families, set to take place on Thursday, May 29, from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM at the CIS Cafeteria and Back Parking Lot, located at 502 Park Heights Drive.
The free community event aims to bring students and their families together for an evening filled with fun and excitement. Attendees can enjoy music, snacks, games, and interactive foam-filled entertainment, promising an unforgettable start to summer break.
In addition to the festivities, Cuero ISD will offer sign-ups for various summer programs, including the Summer Reading Challenge, Summer Recreation Program, Early Learning Program, and the Dolly Parton Imagination Library. These initiatives provide educational and recreational opportunities for students throughout the season.
Parents are required to attend with their children to ensure supervision during the event. Cuero ISD officials encourage families to take advantage of the available free educational resources, designed to support learning beyond the classroom during the summer months.
Bennie Polasek Jr. – June 19, 1949 to May 26, 2025 (75)
MOULTON: Bennie Polasek Jr., age 75, passed away Monday, May 26, 2025. He was born June 19, 1949 in Shiner to Bernard and Vlasta Malatek Polasek.
He was a house painter in his younger years and retired from the City of Moulton after 26 plus years. While working for the City of Moulton he obtained his State water and waste water license. He enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren, working in the yard, fishing and he was known for making great fried pork steaks. He was a former member of the Moulton Volunteer Fire Department for many years. He was a former Emergency Care Attendant for the ambulance service in Moulton for many years.
Survivors: wife of 52 years, Dianna Meisetschleager Polasek; daughter, Tasha Mezik (Mark); grandchildren, Grace Mezik and Christian Mezik; sisters, Doris Hofferek (Bo) and Irene Oakes (Mike) and a brother, Leroy Polasek (Bobbie Jean).
Preceded in death by: parents; sisters, Pat Miller and Lorene Gast
Visitation at 9:00 a.m. with a rosary at 9:30 a.m. followed by a Funeral Service on Friday, May 30, 2025 at Thiele-Cooper Funeral Home with Rev. Michael Rother officiating. Private burial at St. Joseph Catholic Cemetery in Moulton.
John Dale Hurst- August 19, 1943 to May 26, 2025 (81)
John Dale Hurst, age 81, of Yorktown, passed away on Monday, May 26, 2025. He was born in Houston on August 19, 1943 to the late James Lea “Jimmie” and Carlyn Hurst. The family resided in Houston for several years before returning to Yorktown.
John was confirmed at St. Paul Lutheran Church in Yorktown on April 14, 1959. He graduated from Yorktown High School in 1961 and then attended Southwest Texas State College (now Texas State University), earning a bachelor’s degree in 1965 and a master’s degree in 1971. He spent his entire 36-year career in education as a teacher and high school counselor. He was employed by schools in Nordheim, Liberty-Hardin, Bandera and Hobbs, New Mexico, where he spent 25 years guiding students. Upon retirement, John returned to the family home in Yorktown.
John was a true globetrotter. He traveled extensively across the United States and around the world, ultimately achieving the rare feat of visiting all seven continents. John met so many people, never one being a stranger for long; his list of friends is endless. And those sugar cookies! He was famous for always baking many batches of various holiday cookies. They were given to friends and family with some even being shipped many states away.
The church played a vital role in John’s life. He was an active member of the Lutheran Churches in both Hobbs and Yorktown. His spirit of community involvement led him to serve in several local charitable organizations.
John is survived by his brother Thomas (Sally) Hurst of San Antonio and sister Carlea (Fred) Hahn of Yorktown. He is also survived by his nephew and nieces, Chad (Kim) Hahn of Yorktown, Kara (Brett) Bennett of Goliad and Robin Hahn of Yoakum. Also surviving are great-nephews and great-nieces: Macey, Braden, Kellan and Annie Hahn; Tristan, Trevor, Trenton and Kaylyn Bennett.
Visitation will be held from 5-7 pm on Thursday, May 29, 2025 at Massey Funeral Home. A funeral service will be held on Friday, May 30, 2025 at 11 am at St. Paul Lutheran Church in Yorktown with Pastor Tim Muehlbrad officiating.
In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts in memory of John may be given to Yorktown, EMS, Yorktown Fire Department, or the donor’s choice.
Yorktown Junior High Students Move Up to High School
Yorktown, TX – May 2025
Yorktown Junior High students are making the exciting transition to Yorktown High School, marking a significant milestone in their academic journey. As they prepare for the next chapter, students, families, and educators reflect on their achievements and look forward to new opportunities in high school.
The Class of 2029 will soon begin their high school experience, embracing new challenges and experiences that will shape their future.
Swearing In Ceremony for Justice of the Peace, Precinct One Lindsay R. Ruppert
Cuero, TX – May 12, 2025
The Commissioners Court has officially appointed Lindsay R. Ruppert as Justice of the Peace, Precinct One, following the adoption of Court Order No. 2025-021 during its May 12 meeting. Ruppert will step into the role previously held by Justice Peggy Mayer, who retired in March after 19 years of public service.
The appointment fills an unexpired term that will run through December 31, 2026. Ruppert brings extensive experience to the position, having served for over nine years as a civil and criminal justice court clerk in Lavaca County before transitioning into her new role as a public servant.
A swearing-in ceremony is scheduled for 10:00 A.M. on Wednesday, May 28 in the county courtroom, located on the First Floor of the courthouse. The public is invited to attend and meet the newly appointed justice.
For more information, residents may contact the Commissioners Court office or visit the official county website.
Britt Ray Black – November 2, 1964 to May 22, 2025 (60)
Britt Ray Black, 60, of Nixon, Texas, passed away on May 22, 2025. Britt was born on November 2, 1964, to parents, Elder Ray and Wanda June Black. He loved hunting, fishing, Nascar and his beloved dogs.
He is survived by his wife; Betty Beames: stepchildren; Jody Beames, Megan Bienek (Kyle): grandchildren; Noah Riedel, Rylie Bienek: Sister; Brenda Jurach (Ricky): Niece; Tiffani Cumberland (Matthew): Nephew: Chase Jurach; numerous friends and extended family.
Proceeded in death by his parents; Elder Ray and Wanda June Black: grandparents; Ira and Jessie Pearl Black and Loyal “Strang” and Beatrice Pullin.
Memorial Service will be on Saturday, May 31, 2025, at 10:00 am at the Funeral Chapel-Nixon, Texas. Friends and family will gather at Betty and Britt’s home immediately following the service.