Galloway and Sons Funeral Home

12/11/2025

Leonel Y. Alvarez

Leonel Y. Alvarez, 77, of George West, Texas, passed away peacefully on December 3, 2025. Leonel was a devoted father, grandfather and great-grandfather whose life was rooted in family, faith and an appreciation for the simple joys of everyday living.

Leonel was born August 4, 1948, in Live Oak County to Taurino Alvarez and Rosa (Ybanez) Alvarez. He was a graduate of George West High School.

Leonel found peace and happiness in spending time outdoors. He loved fishing and hunting. Barbecuing for family gatherings was one of his favorite ways to bring loved ones together, often filling the yard with laughter, conversation and the smell of good food. He was also a loyal and spirited supporter of the Dallas Cowboys, cheering his team on every season with unwavering devotion.

More than anything, Leonel cherished his family. He was the proud father of five children: Leonel B. Alvarez (Julie C. Alvarez), Adriana Alvarez-Meyers (James Meyers), Taurino Alvarez (Tiffany Davis), Ruth Alvarez (Danny Salinas) and Rose Ellen Alvarez. He is also lovingly remembered by numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren who held a special place in his heart and who will continue to hold on to his stories, lessons and love.

In addition to his parents, he was also preceded in death by his siblings, Senaida Alvarez, Soila Moreno, Noe Alvarez and Manuel Alvarez.

To those who knew him, Leonel will be remembered as a humble and kind-hearted man who found purpose in providing for his family and being present in their lives. He possessed a quiet strength, a warm smile and a steady nature that reassured those around him. His legacy lives on in the memories he created, the values he instilled and the love he leaves behind.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to all who have reached out in support and shared memories during this time of loss.

Leonel’s presence will be deeply missed, but his spirit will continue to guide his family today and always.

Visitation will be held from 10 to 11 a.m. Saturday, December 20, at Galloway & Sons Chapel in George West with a Rosary to be recited at 11 o’clock. A memorial service will follow at 11:30 a.m.

An inurnment ceremony will follow at the George West Cemetery.

View Leonel Y. Alvarez's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

12/10/2025

Garland Louis Brandt

Garland Louis Brandt, 65, passed away on December 9, 2025, in Portland, Texas, following a brief battle with cancer. He was born on January 9, 1960, in Refugio where he also graduated from Refugio High School.

Garland was a dedicated welder inspector and a passionate motorcycle enthusiast. Known for his strong work ethic and meticulous attention to detail, he excelled in his role as a welder inspector. Outside of work, Garland found immense joy riding his Harley, a hobby that embodied his spirit of adventure and zest for life. He cherished the freedom of the open road.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Louis Chester Brandt and Barbara Jean (Essary) Brandt; along with his grandmother, Bertha Essary; and his grandparents, Louis Henry Brandt and Edna Stehle Brandt.

Survivors include his four daughters, Ashlee Sims, Megan May, Melissa Brandt and Bethany Brandt, as well as his three grandsons, Zaiden Sims, Keegan May and Landon May. He is also lovingly remembered by his sisters, Sheila Brandt and Brenda Williams, along with numerous nieces and nephews.

Services will be private as per his wishes.

View Garland Louis Brandt's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

12/07/2025

Jeanette E. (Schumann) Simnacher

Jeanette E. (Schumann) Simnacher, 87, of San Antonio, Texas, formerly of Skidmore, passed away December 5, 2025.

Jeanette was born October 11, 1938, in Alice to Elton L. and Anita E. (Faktor) Schumann. She was a 1957 graduate of Alice High School and from 1956 to 1958, she began her professional career as a switchboard operator which at the time were called Hello Girls. She later embraced her role as a housewife, mother and rancher, where she raised show sheep for local and county 4-H and FFA events. Jeanette returned to the workplace as a cashier at Mr. B’s in Skidmore from 1977 to 1987, before spending the last chapter of her career at Diamond Shamrock, now known as Valero/Circle K, where she worked from 1987 until her retirement in 2020 at the age of 81.

A devoted wife, Jeanette married Robert Neil Simnacher in Alice on August 16, 1958. She was an active parishioner of St. Joseph Catholic Church in Beeville and more recently, of St. Peter’s in Boerne. Her dedication also extended to the Catholic Daughters of the Americas, where she contributed generously of her time and spirit. Jeanette served as a 4-H leader, was a volunteer EMT for Skidmore-Tynan and was a proud member of Farm Bureau. She was passionate about sewing, canning, raising sheep and tending to her cats and dogs. Jeanette enjoyed visiting family and friends, playing cards and the game 42 at the Tynan Hall, and raising plants for Johnny Zimmer, which she traded for floral credits and earning the CB handle of “Green Thumb.” Memories of Jeanette linger, especially the image of a scanner always going in the house, 24/7, waiting for an EMT call, a testament to her commitment to helping others. She also found pleasure in making homemade wine.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Elton and Anita Schumann; and her husband, Robert Simnacher who passed away on December 7, 2019.

Survivors include her daughter, Roberta “Robin” (Simnacher) Pate of San Antonio; a son, Guarian Neil "Bubba" (Debbie) Simnacher of Fair Oaks Ranch; a granddaughter, Katy (Mitchell) Smolik of San Antonio; three great-grandsons, Hayden, Corbin and Eli Smolik; and two brothers, John (Bebe) Schumann and Joe (Donna) Schumann.

Visitation will be held from 5 to 7 p.m. Wednesday, December 10, at Galloway & Sons Funeral Home in Beeville with a Rosary to be recited at 7 o’clock.

The funeral Mass will be celebrated at 10 a.m. Thursday, December 11, at St. Joseph Catholic Church with Father Pete Elizardo officiating.

Burial will follow at Beeville Memorial Park where she will be laid to rest beside her beloved husband, Robert.

Pallbearers will be Vernon Reeh, Steve Beaton, J.R. Perez, Garry Rothlisberger, John Schumann and Joe Schumann.

Family and friends are invited to a reception from 12 to 4 p.m. at the Beeville Country Club.

View Jeanette E. (Schumann) Simnacher's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

12/07/2025

On this day of remembrance, we honor the heroes who gave their lives at Pearl Harbor.
Their courage and sacrifice will never be forgotten.

12/05/2025

Margarita (Morin) Perez

Margarita (Morin) Perez, 74, a devoted homemaker and loving housewife, passed away November 21, 2025, at Avir Nursing Home in Beeville, Texas.

Margarita was born February 2, 1951, in George West, Texas, to Tomas and Elisa (Moya) Morin, who preceded her in death. She brought laughter and joy to all who knew her with her jokes and funny humor. Her family was her pride and joy and she enjoyed spending time with them. She loved gardening where she found pleasure in growing fruit trees and participating in games of Loteria and bingo at La Amistad Adult Activity Center. She also enjoyed dancing to cumbias and participated in various activities at Avir Nursing Home, where she shared her loving spirit with fellow residents.

In addition to her parents, she was also preceded in death by her husband, Hipolito Perez Sr.

Left behind to cherish fond memories include her seven beloved children, Hipolito Perez Jr., Lorenzo Perez, Leonisio Perez, Margaret Perez, Yolanda Perez, Sanjuana Perez and Sandra Perez. She was also the cherished grandmother of 27 grandchildren and a proud great-grandmother to numerous great-grandchildren.

Visitation will be held from 5 to 7 p.m. Friday, December 5, at Galloway & Sons Funeral Home, 409 N. Tyler, Beeville, Texas with a Rosary to be recited at 7 o’clock led by Deacon Roger Rosenbaum.

The funeral service will be conducted at Galloway & Sons Funeral Home at 10 a.m. Saturday, December 6, with Deacon Rosenbaum officiating. Burial will follow at Beeville Memorial Park.

Pallbearers will be Hipolito Perez Jr., Leonisio Perez, Alex Brown, Lorenzo Perez Jr., Hipolito Perez III and Leon Gonzalez Jr.

View Margarita (Morin) Perez's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

12/05/2025

Happy Birthday Andrew!

12/04/2025

Archie (Jr.) Ferrell Jr.

Archie (Jr.) Ferrell, Jr., a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather and friend, passed away peacefully on December 2, 2025, at the Live Oak Nursing Center in George West, Texas. He was 78.

Born on February 17, 1947, in Pie, West Virginia, to Archie Ferrell and Mona Ganell (Evans) Ferrell. Jr. was known for his humor and warm-hearted nature. He married the love of his life, Frances Odom, on August 13, 1965, in San Antonio. Family meant everything to Jr., and he embraced each family member with love and kindness. One of his proudest roles was that of Dad, Papa and Archieball.

Over the course of his life, Jr. undertook several trades before finding his passion as an auto mechanic after moving to George West. His dedication led him to establish Jr.'s Auto Service. After retirement, he served with distinction as a member of the Live Oak County Pct. 1 team, contributing to his community in meaningful ways. In addition, he dedicated more than 20 years to the Live Oak County Fair Association and was an active member of the Live Oak County Mounted Sheriff's Posse.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Archie and Mona Ferrell; and 14 siblings, Billy, Mike, Tim, Donald, Rex, Carson, Doris, Carrie, Effie “Boots,” Jeanett, Joyce, Leavada, Lillian Faye and Patricia Lynn.

Jr. is survived by his beloved wife of 60 years, Frances (Odom) Ferrell of George West; daughter, Suzie (Rick) McClelland of George West; son, Dwayne Ferrell, of George West; sister Dreama Schulz; grandchildren Madison (Joe) Pietzsch, Lane McClelland, Jeremiah Ferrell and Landis Ferrell; and his cherished great-grandchildren, Sophia Molina, Jedidiah Pietzsch, Jireh Pietzsch, and Jericho Pietzsch. He also leaves behind several nieces and nephews who will dearly miss his presence.

Visitation will be held from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. Wednesday, December 10, at Brush Country Cowboy Church in George West. The funeral service will follow at 12 o’clock with Pastor Pat Traxler officiating. Jr. will be laid to rest at the George West Cemetery.

Pallbearers will be Jeremiah Ferrell, Lane McClelland, Landis Ferrell, Joe Pietzsch, Russtin Miller and Chad Conrey.

His great-grandchildren, Sophia, Jedidiah, Jireh and Jericho, will serve as honorary pallbearers.

View Archie (Jr.) Ferrell Jr.'s obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

12/04/2025

Michael Ferrell

Michael “Mike” Ferrell, a beloved member of the George West community, passed away peacefully at his home on January 11, 2025, at the age of 76.

Born on July 18, 1948, in Pie, West Virginia, Mike was the son of the late Archie Ferrell and Mona Ganell (Evans) Ferrell. He married Robbie Martin on May 28, 1970, in San Antonio. A dedicated businessman, he proudly owned Mike's Septic Service and Portable Restroom, both reputable businesses in George West. His commitment to his work and the community was evident in the many relationships he built and the respect he garnered from those around him.

In addition to his parents, Mike is also preceded in death by 13 siblings, Billy, Tim, Donald, Rex, Carson, Doris, Carrie, Effie “Boots,” Jeanett, Joyce, Leavada, Lillian Faye and Patricia Lynn.

Family held a central place in Michael's heart. He is survived by his loving wife of 54 years, Robbie M. Ferrell of George West; two sons, Michael Joe Ferrell and Michael Shane Ferrell; a brother, Archie (Frances) Ferrell; and a sister, Dreama Schulz. He was also blessed with grandchildren who brought him much joy and happiness including his grandson, Mayson Ferrell; granddaughter, Mayleigh Ferrell; and three step-grandsons, Noah Cantu, Nick Cantu and Nathan Cantu. He will also be missed by numerous nieces and nephews.

Visitation will be held from 10 to 10:30 a.m. Thursday, January 16, at the Galloway & Sons Chapel in George West followed by the funeral service at 10:30 a.m. with Pastor Pat Traxler officiating.

Burial will follow in the George West Cemetery.

Pallbearers will be Russtin Miller, Gordon LaRue, Johnny Berlanga, Landis Ferrell, Noah Cantu and Nick Cantu.

View Michael Ferrell's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

12/02/2025

William "Bill" August Skoruppa

William “Bill” August Skoruppa was born October 13, 1943, in George West, Texas, to Edmond Edward Skoruppa and Annie (Bubenik) Skoruppa. He passed away November 29, 2025, at Live Oak Nursing Home at the age of 82.

Bill met the love of his life, Peggy Joyce Lemley, in the first grade at George West Primary. They were married on July 8, 1967, at St. George Catholic Church and celebrated 58 years together. He graduated from George West High School in 1962 and from the University of Corpus Christi in 1966. He enlisted in the U.S. Army and graduated from Officer Candidate School (OCS) at Fort Eustis, Virginia in 1967. He was stationed at ARADMAC, Naval Air Station, Corpus Christi, Texas, during the Vietnam Era. After active duty, he served in the Army Reserves and retired with the rank of Major.

Bill worked as school district business manager at George West ISD and retired in 2001 to spend time with his registered Beefmaster herd. He served on the Live Oak Beefmaster Breeders Association board for a number of years. As chairman of the International Beefmaster Association Committee, he and Peggy traveled extensively throughout Central and South America promoting American beef. Bill received the Living Legend Award for his many years of participation at Rio Grande City Beefmaster sales. He had a lifelong love of hunting and fishing and being in the great outdoors, especially New Mexico and Colorado.

Bill was preceded in death by his parents, Edmond and Annie Skoruppa; brothers, Edmond John Skoruppa and Allee Lurtice Skoruppa; and a sister, Helen Skoruppa Gallagher.

Survivors include his beloved wife, Peggy; two sons, Bryan (Sonia Rodriguez) Skoruppa and Scott (Kerri) Skoruppa; three granddaughters, Chantelle Rodriguez, Lauryn Skoruppa and Eryn Skoruppa; brothers, Raymond Adolf Skoruppa and Tommy Lee (Thea) Skoruppa; and a host of cousins, nieces and nephews.

Visitation will take place from 5 to 7 p.m. Thursday, December 4, 2025, at Galloway & Sons Chapel in George West with a Rosary to be recited at 7 o’clock led by Deacon Shayne Katzfey.

The funeral Mass will be celebrated at 11 a.m. Friday, December 5, 2025, at St. George Catholic Church with Monsignor Michael Howell officiating.

Burial with military honors will follow at St George Cemetery.

Pallbearers will be Edmond Skoruppa, Mark Skoruppa, Aaron Lemley, Nathan Lemley, Dave Scanlon and Jacob Kaase.

View William "Bill" August Skoruppa's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

12/01/2025

Enriqueta (Leal) Zapata

Enriqueta (Leal) Zapata, 89, a beloved mother and cherished member of her community in George West, Texas, passed away peacefully on November 29, 2025.

Enriqueta was born on July 15, 1936, in McCoy, Texas, to Epifanio and Marta (Vela) Leal. She married Tomas Zapata on April 1, 1953. She was a member of St. George Catholic Church and she treasured spending time with her family.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Epifanio and Marta Leal; her husband, Tomas Zapata; her daughters, Adela (Ted) Yunis and Marta (Tudy) Gutierrez; a sister, Consuelo Martinez; and a brother, Faustino Leal Sr.

Enriqueta's life was marked by her unconditional love for her family and her faith. She proudly embraced her role as a loving mother to her children, Gloria (Johnny) Molina of Beeville, Mario (Karen) Zapata of Dallas, Joe (Mary) Zapata of George West, Erasmo “Eddie” (Brenda) Zapata of George West and Thomas (Debra) Zapata of Beeville. Nanny’s legacy continues through her 10 grandchildren and many great-grandchildren, each of whom brought her immense joy. She is also survived by her sister, Flora Ybanez, who mourns her loss alongside her children and extended family.

Visitation will be held from 9 to 10 a.m. Thursday, December 4, 2025, at St. George Catholic Church with a Rosary to be recited at 10 o’clock. The funeral Mass will be celebrated at 10:30 a.m. with Father Pete Elizardo officiating. Burial will follow at the George West Cemetery.

Pallbearers will be Joe Zapata, Warren Reyna, Randy Leal, David Leal, Lee Leal and Roland Gaytan.

Christopher Zapata and Cole Zapata will serve as honorary pallbearers.

View Enriqueta (Leal) Zapata's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

12/01/2025

This holiday season, give your loved ones the gift that lasts.
Preplanning your funeral or memorial ensures your wishes are honored and lifts the burden from your family during a difficult time.
Start planning today! A thoughtful choice that brings peace for years to come.

Call or visit us today.

11/27/2025

Wishing you a day filled with gratitude, laughter, and time spent with the ones who matter most.
Happy Thanksgiving from our family to yours!