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Esperanza (Hope) Debo – June 16, 1949 to April 5, 2025 (75)

GOLIAD — Esperanza (Hope) Debo of Goliad, Texas, passed away Saturday, April 5, 2025. Hope was born to Maria Cantu and Jose De Los Santos on June 16, 1949, in Cuero, Texas. She grew up in a humble home on the O’Connor Duke Ranch. She was a Vietnam veteran, having served in the US Navy as a hospital corpsman.
Family and friends will gathered for visitation on Thursday, April 10, 2025 from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM, with the Holy Rosary to be prayed at 7:00 PM at Grace Funeral Home in Goliad, Texas. Funeral Mass was held Friday, April 11, 2025 at 10:00 AM at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Goliad. Lunch was served following the mass, before burial at the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church Parish Hall. Burial at San Antonio Cemetery in Fannin, Texas.
She is survived by her husband Michael Debo, her daughter Tina Marie Stocker (Brian), grandson Austin Olivarez, granddaughter Kiersten Stocker (Jason Blackwell), three great grandchildren: Noah, Novalee and Mia; godson Xavier Perez, sisters Eva Humphries (Jessie), and Carlotta Gonzales (David). She was preceded in death by her parents and her sister Estella Perez.
Her outdoor enjoyments included tennis, soccer, golf and running. She enjoyed quilting, crocheting, painting and cooking. She loved children and dogs, especially her little Jackson and Jasper, her four-legged grandsons.
Hope loved serving others. At Saint Louis King of France, she was a Eucharistic Minister, served on the Parish Council, led a Prayer Blanket Ministry and a Bereavement Ministry, taught Catechism, was a Scout leader and member of the Knights of Columbus Ladies Auxiliary and volunteered in many school activities and events.
Hope retired after 25 years as Manager at the IRS and earned the highest award for service and dedication.
She served Immaculate Conception Church as a Faith Formation/CCD teacher and as an officer in the Catholic Daughters. She was Post Adjutant for American Legion Post 193, President of the Goliad County Garden Club, and member of the Crafty Quilters.
Hope survived colon cancer but later succumbed to the effects of stage 4 breast cancer.
In lieu of flowers, please make donations to Immaculate Conception Church in Goliad, the Goliad County Garden Club, or the Goliad Senior Citizens Center. www.gracefuneralhome.net.

Beyond The County Lines: The Legacy of People from De Witt County

By: Pat Trevino

 

In today’s column, Beyond The County Lines: The Legacy of People from DeWitt County, we pay tribute to Carol Hoff—a name some residents of DeWitt County may recognize, though her remarkable story remains less widely known. Only recently did I uncover the extraordinary contributions Hoff made to children’s and young adult literature. Born in Arizona in the early 1900s, Hoff later became a high school teacher, living and working in Yorktown, Texas, before embarking on her journey as a published author.

Her Literary legacy is rooted in Texas and she is best known for her book Johnny Texas—first published in 1950—skillfully brings to life the experiences of a German immigrant family arriving in Texas during the early 1830s. Through Johnny’s adventures, readers witness the challenges of frontier life and the Texas Revolution against Mexico, providing a vivid snapshot of an era that shaped our state’s identity.

Johnny Texas

The book received the Charles W. Follett Award and recognition from the Texas Institute of Letters, establishing Hoff as a significant literary figure.  Its sequel, Johnny Texas on the San Antonio Road, continues this engaging narrative.  Hoff’s works appeal to both children and young adult readers, offering insights into historical and cultural themes.  Her authentic portrayal of frontier life is valued by anthropologist and historians alike, even down to the practical quirks, such as the challenges of making grape jelly from wild Mustang grapes.

In January 2012, the Yorktown Public Library honored Hoff by dedicating the Carol Hoff Meeting Room, celebrating her inspiring legacy.  Hoff’s books, including Johnny Texas, are available at the Cuero Public Library, inviting readers to explore her rich storytelling.

 

Other Books by Carol Hoff: They served America, Holidays and history, Head to the West, Stephen F. Austin: Wilderness Pioneer

 


Beyond The County Lines: The Legacy of People from DeWitt County celebrates the stories of De Witt’s very own residents who have shaped history—not just through grand events or fame, but through the courage, resilience, and humanity of everyday lives. This column honors both the extraordinary tales of triumph and struggle, and the beautifully ordinary moments that reveal the depth of character and connection within our community. Together, these voices bring history to life and remind us of the shared legacy we carry forward.


Please share your suggestions or the names of individuals from De Witt County whom you believe should be featured in this column email:  cueroonlinenews@gmail.com

Joyce Thornton Patterson – February 26, 1942 to April 8, 2025 (83)

YOAKUM: Joyce Thornton Patterson, passed away peacefully in Yoakum, on Tuesday, April 8, 2025 at the age of 83. Joyce was born in Porter, Texas on February 26, 1942.

While she enjoyed the peace of small-town life, Joyce spent most of her years in San Antonio enjoying everything the city had to offer. Joyce was a graduate of Silverton High School and attended McMurray College in Abilene, Texas. She was a Montessori school teacher at San Antonio Country Day School for over 20 years. Prior to this she worked in the Special Education Department in the Tulia ISD. Joyce was an avid reader and had a passion for books. As a teacher, she was proud that she could teach any child to read. After retirement she often found herself “lost” in a book until the wee hours of the morning. Joyce had a strong faith in God and was often heard humming or singing her favorite hymns as she attended daily chores around the house. Her love for family and strong values were felt by everyone around her.

She is survived by her son, Bryan Kent Patterson and his wife Doralene of Yoakum; grandson, James Patterson of Pleasanton as well as Doralene’s children and grandchildren.

Preceded in death by: husband, Wendall Patterson; parents, Georgia and Olive Thornton; brothers, Ken, Royce and Milton Thornton.

A Celebration of Life service will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial contributions can be made in Joyce’s memory to a charity of your choice. She will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

Arrangements by Thiele-Cooper Funeral Home 361-293-5656.

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Keep Cuero Beautiful Highlights Their Latest Beautification Project

Cuero, Texas -Keep Cuero Beautiful (KCB) continues to advance its mission of promoting a clean and beautiful community by encouraging efforts to keep Cuero litter-free and preserve the natural environment. The organization actively engages the community through various initiatives, including annual plant swaps, workshops on conserving natural resources, recognition of outstanding residential and commercial landscaping projects, public space landscaping, and several cleanup days each year.

This week, KCB celebrated the completion of a new beautification project in front of the Cuero Post Office with a ribbon-cutting ceremony. The project was made possible through the collaboration and coordination of key community members and organizations, including Sandra Tague Osman, Cuero Main Street Director and KCB board member, Cuero Post Master Shelagh Cope, Joe Adams of O&G Rocks, and the Cuero City Government Parks Department and Cuero Fire Department.

Pictured are City Manager Wayne Berger and personnel from the Fire Department.

KCB, under the leadership of President Sara Meyer and its dedicated board of directors, remains committed to making Cuero a cleaner, greener, and more beautiful place to live. This latest project is just one example of the organization’s impactful work in the community.

Keep Cuero Beautiful encourages everyone to support their efforts and take pride in the difference these projects are making in Cuero.

Jody Hall Announces Candidacy for Yorktown ISD School Board Election

Yorktown, Texas—Jody Hall, a dedicated community member and advocate for education, has officially announced her candidacy for the Yorktown ISD School Board election, scheduled for May 3rd. Hall made her announcement public through a heartfelt Facebook post, urging residents to support her campaign and cast their votes in the upcoming election.

In her post, Hall expressed her enthusiasm for serving the community and emphasized the importance of education in shaping the future of Yorktown. She wrote, “Making it Facebook official! I would appreciate ALL of your votes in the upcoming school board election on May 3rd! Let me know if you need a sign to show your support!”

Hall is one of five candidates vying for three open positions on the Yorktown ISD School Board. Her campaign focuses on fostering a collaborative environment within the school district and ensuring that students receive the resources and support they need to succeed.

Early voting for the election will take place from April 22nd to April 29th, with no weekend voting. On election day, Yorktown residents can cast their votes at the YISD Cafeteria, located at 404 W. 4th Street. To participate in the election, citizens must be registered to vote by April 3rd.

Hall’s commitment to education and her proactive approach to community engagement have already garnered attention. Her campaign invites residents to reach out for yard signs to show their support and spread the word about her candidacy.

For more information on the election and voting procedures, visit the DeWitt County Elections Office or check out their website. Stay tuned for updates on Hall’s campaign and other candidates as the election date approaches.

 


Attention Local Candidates: If you have not yet had your campaign announcement published with us, we encourage you to reach out! Please email Cuero Online News at cueroonlinenews@gmail.com to share your announcement. We look forward to hearing from you!


 

Calling All Dancers: Trotters Dance Team Tryouts for 2025-2026!

Are you ready to step, leap, and glide into the spotlight? Cuero High School is thrilled to announce the upcoming auditions for its renowned Trotters Dance Team for the 2025-2026 season!

If you’ve got passion, rhythm, and the drive to be part of an elite group of performers, don’t miss this opportunity to showcase your talent. The journey begins on April 15th, with a mandatory tryout meeting for dancers and their parents. This session is your ticket to all the essential details about the team, the tryout process, and what it means to be a Trotter. Prepare to be informed, inspired, and motivated to join this incredible tradition of excellence.

Why Join the Trotters?

The Trotters are more than just a dance team—they are a symbol of school spirit, teamwork, and artistry. From pep rallies to halftime performances, these talented dancers light up every stage they step onto, bringing energy and pride to Cuero High School. Being a Trotter means embracing discipline, passion, and creativity, all while forming lifelong memories and friendships.

Important Details:
Meeting Date: April 15th, 2025
Who’s Required: All prospective dancers and at least one parent or guardian
Purpose: Discuss tryout requirements, team expectations, and the exciting road ahead.

We’re counting down the days until we meet the bright talents who will carry the torch as Cuero High School’s Trotters for the 2025-2026 season. Mark your calendars, lace up your dance shoes, and prepare to take center stage—your future with the Trotters awaits!

See You There!

Genevieve Barbara Ezzell Clark Shedyak – June 15, 1925 to April 7, 2025 (99)

HOPE: Genevieve Barbara Ezzell Clark Shedyak, lived 99 years, 10 months and 7 days, passed away Monday, April 7, 2025. She was born June 15, 1925 in Hungerford, Tx to the late Herman and Lydia Bernadette (Planka) Scholz.

She graduated from Boling High School and married her beloved Jim Ezzell in 1943. They were blessed with three sons, Michael, Benny and Thomas Ezzell. They made their home in Point Comfort where they raised their family. The family was involved with the community as Jim helped build the Church of Christ building in Point Comfort. Jim passed away in 1974 after sharing 31 years of marriage with Genevieve. Eventually in 1990, Genevieve moved to the Hope community and was a happy resident there for the next 35 years. She spent those years being very active in the Ezzell Church of Christ, particularly Ladies Bible Class.  She was always supportive of working with youth groups especially 4-H and through Peach Valley Christian Youth Encampment, which she and Jim founded in 1963. She loved her volunteer work with the Pink Ladies and was a member of the Garden Club and Bridge Club. She went through many changes and challenges in life but held fast to her faith in God. May her legacy of love for others and walking by faith live on in her family.

Survivors are her sons, Michael H. Ezzell and wife Betty, Benny F. Ezzell and wife Glenda and Thomas E. Ezzell and wife Mary Lou; 9 grandchildren, 28 great-grandchildren and 25 great-great grandchildren; numerous extended family, nieces and nephews.

Preceded in death by her parents; husbands, James Ezzell, Aubrey Clark and George Shedyak; sisters, Helen Martin (Boyd), Marie Calloway (Steve), Barbara Tipton (Sam), Bernice James (Frank); brother, Henry Scholz (Bernice).

Visitation 1 p.m. with Funeral Service at 2 p.m., Sunday, April 13, 2025 at Thiele Cooper Funeral Home with her son, Michael Ezzell officiating. Burial at Memory Gardens in Edna, Texas at 3:30 p.m.

Pallbearers are Chad Ezzell, Jason Banda, Randy Hermes,  Rick King, Brian Ezzell, Bobby Vengler, Tommy James, and Teddy Martin.

Honorary pallbearers are Michael E. Ezzell and Bobby Martin.

Memorials may be given to Peach Valley Christian Youth Encampment, 1611 Crescent Green Dr., Houston, Texas 77094.

Arrangements by Thiele-Cooper Funeral Home, 361-293-5656.

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