Obituaries

Martha Jane McBrierty Shipley, a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and sister, passed peacefully into God’s arms on September 3, 2024, in Houston, Texas. “Nona”, as she was affectionately known by her 13 grandchildren and 9 greatgrandchildren, was glowing from the day she was born in Ennis, Texas on December 26, 1932, for 91 precious years. She graduated from Ennis High School and achieved a Bachelor of Science from Texas State College for Women, where she was chosen as Aggie Sweetheart and Cotton Bowl Princess by virtue of her radiant beauty and grace. After college, Jane’s intelligence and wit landed her a position with a US Congressman to work on Capitol Hill in Washington, DC.

Louis Correa sadly left us peacefully on August 25, 2024, at the age of 62. Louis was born in Ennis, Texas, to Delfino and Anastacia Correa. He was living in Arizona where he married Debbie Garza in 2020. Later they moved to San Antonio where he was living at the time of his death.

Marylyn Tysdal-Wylie passed away peacefully in the early hours of August 19, 2024. Recitation of the Rosary will be held at 7:00 p.m. on Thursday, September 19, 2024, at Goes Funeral Care. Memorial Mass will begin at 10:00 a.m. on Friday, September 20, 2024, at Saint John XXIII Catholic Church, Fort Collins. Interment will take place at Grandview Cemetery directly after the service and followed by a Reception/ Buffet luncheon at 1:00 p.m. at American Legion Post 4, LaPorte Co. Hwy 287.

Patsy Maxine Dillon (Pace), aged 84, passed away on August 5, 2024, in Tyler, Texas. Born on April 20, 1940, in Grayson County, Patsy was known for her warm and nurturing nature, a loving mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother who cherished spending time with her family and friends. Patsy graduated from Ennis High School and spent her life making a profound impact on those around her through simple, joyous gatherings and her ever-welcoming home. Her presence was a comforting constant in the lives of her loved ones.

Bro. Grady Winston Manning peacefully passed away at home, surrounded by his family, on Sunday, August 4, 2024. Born in Houston, April 26,1955 to Winston and Barbara Manning, Grady showed an early talent for music and through the years, developed those musical gifts. Throughout his high school years, he played in various bands, ensembles and in dramatic productions earning numerous awards and accolades. He served as Drum Major of the Plano High School class of 1973 band and went on to march in the Fightin’ Texas Aggie band. He was also a member of Plano City Orchestra for several years. Clarinet, baritone and alto saxophone, piano and guitar are among the instruments he enjoyed playing.

On July 20, 2024, the State of Texas lost one of its most distinguished, loyal, and dedicated citizens and servants with the passing of James (Jim) R. Pitts. Jim was a man of many talents whose service to his community and the State of Texas as the State Representative for Texas House District 10 for 22 years will be remembered for his commitment to the citizens of his district and all Texans. He was not only an outstanding legislator but also an extraordinary human being. Jim Pitts made a difference in the lives of others, and his legacy will not be forgotten.

Robert James Jurica, 80, passed away peacefully, Sunday, July 21, 2024 at his home in Ennis, Texas surrounded by his loving family. Robert was born in Ennis, Texas on July 7, 1944, to John Lee and Helen (Pekar) Jurica. Robert grew up in Ennis and graduated from St. John’s High School in 1962. That is where he met the love of his life Irene (Salik) Jurica. They were married on September 14, 1963 and made Ennis their home.

Helen Hodge began worshiping in Heaven Sunday, July 21, 2024, alongside her beloved husband, Charles. She was born in Johnstown, Missouri, to Otis and Faye Maupin on August 31, 1933. She was raised in a loving home with two wonderful sisters. She graduated from South High School in Denver, Colorado. She met her husband, Charles B. Hodge, from Byrd, Texas, on her first day at Harding University, in Searcy, Arkansas, where he proceeded to “take her off the market.” Helen worked side by side with Charles for 68 years in ministry before his death.

Sheila Ann Burgess (Phelps), aged 67, passed away on July 9, 2024, in Dallas, Texas. Born on December 4, 1956, in Athens, Texas, Sheila was cherished and loved by all. Sheila was a wonderful mother and a selfless person, always prioritizing her family. She had a love for cooking, baking, shopping, working in the yard, and made every holiday special for her loved ones. She loved Elvis Presley and found joy in visiting Graceland and trips to the casinos. Above all else, her eight grandkids were her pride and joy.