Pace Stancil Funeral Home

02/26/2026

Gayla Schwarting Jansen

The Long Goodbye: She’s Running a Little Late

Gayla Jansen Klingle | January 27, 1945 – February 23, 2026

If you’re reading this and wondering why the service hasn’t started yet, don’t worry, Gayla is just staying true to herself. She always ended up serving Thanksgiving dinner at 10:00 PM, so it’s only fitting she’d be fashionably late to her own farewell.

Gayla spent most of her life describing herself as "slow." She was slow to finish a bid for a client, slow to finish her taxes, and always the last one to finish a meal. Her family would often have to pause a story mid-sentence to admonish her take to take a bite because she would be frozen, mouth open, with her fork in mid-air listening with such interest that she would forget to put the food in her mouth. Quick to listen, slow to everything else.

Born while her parents had a brief stint in Annapolis, Maryland at the end of World War II, Gayla was the daughter of Eleanor and Joseph F. Schwarting. She grew up in the artistic, athletic glow of her father, a legendary Captain of the Texas Longhorns. Gayla inherited his creative soul and his obsession with football.

As a young girl, she lived in a version of Houston we can’t even imagine, when Bellaire was as far west as anyone could reasonably live. She told stories about riding a pony from her family house on Jacquet across what is now the 610 loop and into Memorial Park.

Gayla defied expectations and was full of surprises. She never wore a dress to school and when the powers that be made her conform, she secretly wore jeans underneath. In 1957, a reluctant 12-year-old Gayla was dragged to see a nobody named Elvis Presley. When Elvis took the stage, she was shocked by her reaction, immediately jumping to her feet and screaming at the top of her lungs for the entire concert. In the early 60s, she became a "Tenneco Girl," looking like a high-fashion supermodel straight off the set of Mad Men. Though she was world-class at the aesthetic, she painfully slow with a typewriter.

It was at Tenneco that she met the love of her life, Ralph Jansen, a country boy who broke horses and wrangled alligators for fun. In a move that shocked those around her, the sweet city girl who hated the sun and loved paved roads, recalled her pony riding memories and went full Green Acres, moving to the country to raise kids among horses, cattle, chickens, snakes and her beloved pet goat, Aurora, who she led by leash in a holiday parade in Magnolia, TX.

Gayla was a woman of beautiful contradictions. A professional interior designer who made everyone’s dream home beautiful, she maintained the messiest house on the block, a testament to a life focused on people rather than piles. Raised as a casual Catholic girl, she became a born-again Christian in her early 20s. Her devout faith became central to the rest of her life, hosting Good News Club for the neighborhood kids on Goldfinch, her 40+ year commitment to the work of Community Bible Study, and loading her minivan full of her sons’ friends to learn the bible at Awana with bellies full of homemade Wednesday night burgers. Her friends and family admired her knowledge and recall of scripture. God’s word overflowed out of her at every moment, and she always knew how to apply her study to real life in every situation good or bad. This was not casual, it defined her.

Many will remember Gayla with a huge video camera on her shoulder.

Gayla videoed every local sporting event, church concert, award ceremony and wedding (even if it took her years to deliver the edited version). She took it upon herself to capture memories for others even as her own memories began to fade. She fell in love with football watching her sons play through the viewfinder of her camera. She often commented that she loved capturing moments on camera because she could do it in real time, at the same speed as anyone else.

Gayla never drank alcohol, only cussed once that we know of, always had a tissue in her hand to dab the happy tears of her sensitive heart. Those closest to her can attest that her kindness and sweet spirit knew no bounds. That is unless you tried to throw away any of her "precious stuff." If you threatened to get rid of a rusted knife or a scrap of paper she’d saved, the Longhorn’s daughter came out to defend her hoard with righteous anger.

After navigating the tragic loss of Ralph in 1997 and her beloved daughter, Janica in 2015, she found love again with Donald "Doc" Klingle, a woodworker and banjo player who treated her with tender kindness until his recent passing on October 25, 2025.

Gayla and Doc spent their final years in the beautiful home her son Jared built, watching Elvis videos on YouTube, Murder She Wrote reruns, Astros and Texans games while trying to hold on to whatever memories remained as she began to battle Alzheimer’s. A short time ago, the family moved her into a specialized memory facility called Barton House, where she received immense love and warmth from an amazing group of caregivers. Gayla continued to find Christlike joy and happiness through it all and her perfect smile came out all the way until her last few days on earth. True to form, she was wildly slow to the end, hanging on to life far longer than anyone expected. Her nurses remarked that they had never seen someone take so long. Classic, sweet Gayla, taking her time and defying expectations even in death.

Gayla is reunited in heaven with her husbands, Ralph and Doc; her daughter, Janica Jansen Kohler; her parents; and her brother, Joe (Sandy) Schwarting.

Her legacy and memory is carried on by her sons, Jared Jansen, Jeremy Jansen and his wife Candice (Oliver), her grandchildren, Chris Kohler, Oliver Jansen, Grace Jansen, Otto Jansen and August Jansen, her brothers, Schuyler and Wright Schwarting, her sister, Bonnie Schwarting, her sister in-law Mary Kaye Finley and many other family members.

We love you, mom. We’ll see you when we get there, we know you’ll be waiting on us for once.

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02/25/2026

We are incredibly proud to share some special news about one of our own.

The Cleveland Rotary Club has named Brandy Holston a Paul Harris Fellow. This is one of Rotary’s highest recognitions and is awarded to individuals who demonstrate outstanding service and meaningful impact in their communities.

Over the past two years, Brandy has helped lead a community project that provided 480 brand new jackets to local schoolchildren, making sure kids in our area are cared for and supported. Her heart for serving others, along with her amazing shopping skills, played a huge role in the project’s success.

At Pace Stancil, serving families and serving our community go hand in hand. We are so grateful to have Brandy on our team.

Please join us in congratulating her on this well deserved recognition. 💙

02/24/2026

Lisa Robin Smith

Lisa Robin Brickey Smith, 68, passed away on February 21, 2026, in Houston, Texas.

Lisa was born on May 8, 1957, in Houston to Elbert David Brickey and Louise Brickey. For the past 39 years, she made her home in Liberty, after previously living in Houston. Liberty became the heart of her world—a place where she built a life centered on family, friendship, and the simple joys she cherished most.

Lisa was a dedicated employee of Walmart, where she faithfully worked for 17 years before retiring. During her time there, she formed many lasting friendships and was known for her strong work ethic, kindness, and willingness to help others.

Lisa shared 49 wonderful years of marriage with the love of her life, Chuck Smith. Together they enjoyed fishing, browsing flea markets, and shopping for antiques. She especially loved attending Trade Days in Liberty and treasured their vacations to Wimberley, where many special memories were made. An avid sports fan, Lisa faithfully cheered on the Houston Astros and followed her favorite football team from their early days as the Houston Oilers to the Houston Texans. She also enjoyed watching movies and gathering with loved ones to cheer on her teams during football season.

Lisa was a true fighter—strong-willed and sometimes stubborn, but always guided by love. She was generous to a fault, always ready to lend a helping hand, and she loved deeply and wholeheartedly. Nothing brought her more joy than time spent with her grandchildren, whom she adored. Her family was her pride and greatest blessing, and she loved them with her whole heart.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her beloved son, Michael “Smitty” Smith; and her grandmother, Threda Tuma.

Lisa leaves behind her loving husband, Chuck Smith; her sons, William Daryl Smith and wife Sandra Gail, and Matthew Ryan Smith and wife Katie; her daughter-in-law, Stephanie and husband Heath Fults; Sumer Jessup and husband Jeff; her cherished grandchildren, Alyssa, Riley, Ashton, Ian, Raegan, Brennan, Bryson, Adley, Caden, Paisleigh, Hadison, and Haizley; and extended family members, Josh and Brandi Bradberry.

A visitation will be held from 1:00 to 2:00 p.m. on Friday, February 27, 2026, at Pace Stancil Funeral Home. Funeral services will follow at 2:00 p.m. at the funeral home. Burial will take place at Cooke Cemetery.

Pallbearers will be Daryl Smith, Matt Smith, Amos Roy, James St. Clair, Chris Bishop, Wesley Pritchett, Kenny Pritchett, and Jeff Jessup. Honorary pallbearers will be Riley Jessup, Ashton Smith, Ian Smith, Brennan Smith, Bryson Spellman, Caden Smith, and Jason Willis.

Lisa’s legacy of strength, generosity, and unwavering love will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.

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02/23/2026

Jack Powell Chambers

Jack Powell Chambers, 81, passed away peacefully on February 20, 2026 surrounded by his loving family. Born on May 17, 1944, Jack lived a life defined by hard work, deep love, and unwavering devotion to his family.

Jack was a hardworking man who believed in providing for those he loved. He led by example, teaching his children and grandchildren the value of dedication, integrity, and perseverance. No matter how long the day or how heavy the load, his family always came first. His strength was steady, his heart was generous, and his love was constant and true.

He found great joy in the simple pleasures of life. Jack loved working in his yard and took special pride in tending to his roses. His garden was a reflection of him — patiently nurtured, carefully tended, and full of quiet beauty. He also loved working with wood. Whether building, repairing, or crafting something with his hands, he found satisfaction in creating things that would last. His projects were made with care, skill, and often shared with those he loved.

He is survived by his loving daughters, Laura Chambers; Phyllis Phillips and husband Ricky; and Penny Martin and husband David. He was a proud and devoted grandfather to Samantha Reis and husband Ramon; Jason White and wife Marissa; Chad White and wife Natalee; Macie Martin and husband Baldemar Sandoval; and Megan Mendez and husband Nelson.

Jack’s greatest joy was his growing family. He adored his great-grandchildren: Lilianna and Lyondru Reis; Trayton and Teagan White; Cayden and Kelbee Franklin and Holden White; Heidi and Hatti LaFrance; Baldemar Sandoval Jr.; and Lucas and Alex Mendez. He also leaves behind numerous nieces, nephews, extended family members, and many dear friends who will cherish his memory.

Jack was preceded in death by his beloved wife of sixty-one years, Dorothy Chambers, the love of his life; his beautiful daughter, Pamela Chambers; his parents, Jack Floyd and Lillie Mae Chambers; and his sister, Verta Sue Lawrence. We take comfort in knowing he is reunited with those he loved so dearly.

Jack’s life was a testament to what truly matters — faithfulness to family, a strong work ethic, and a loving heart. His legacy will live on in the lives he shaped, the lessons he taught, and the love he gave so freely.

He will be deeply missed, forever loved, and never forgotten.

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02/23/2026

Jennifer Leigh Bush-Forsyth

Jenny passed away peacefully at home after a long and courageous battle with renal disease and its many complications.

Born on June 8, 1981, in Baytown, Texas, Jenny spent her childhood in Hardin, Texas, where she graduated from Hardin High School in 1999. After graduation, she returned to Baytown, where she remained until her passing.

From a young age, Jenny embraced life with curiosity and passion. She was active in 4-H and FFA and proudly played in the Hardin High School band. She had a deep and abiding love for animals and could never resist rescuing any creature in need. Cats and horses held a special place in her heart. Jenny was a true free spirit — never one to conform to others’ expectations. An artist at heart, she loved to draw, paint, write, and continually redecorate or create something new. She was fascinated by unsolved mysteries and once dreamed of becoming either a veterinarian or a forensic investigator. Halloween was her favorite holiday, and she longed to one day travel to Australia.

Family meant everything to Jenny. She treasured time spent with her brothers, sisters, nieces, and nephews. Yet above all else, she was most proud of her children.

At a young age, Jenny was told that medical complications would likely prevent her from ever conceiving. When she learned she was pregnant with her first child, Jayden Brooke, she was overjoyed. Though concerns were raised about the strain pregnancy might place on her health, Jenny’s faith never wavered. She believed wholeheartedly that this child was a miracle from God — and she was right. She welcomed a beautiful, healthy baby girl who not only shares her mother’s features, but also her creativity, fire, and determination.

Two and a half years later, Jenny brought her son, Jake Isaac, into the world. This pregnancy came with serious complications, including a return to renal failure. Doctors strongly advised terminating the pregnancy due to the risk to her life. But Jenny’s steadfast determination prevailed. She refused to give up on her baby boy. For three months she remained on bed rest, undergoing daily dialysis to sustain him. Though he arrived very early and very tiny, she delivered a healthy baby boy. Jake carries his mother’s compassion, sensitivity, and deep love for animals.

While still being treated for renal failure and recovering from a C-section at St. Luke’s, Jenny insisted nurses wheel her to Texas Children’s Hospital each day, for as long as she was able, simply to be by her son’s side.

Her children were her entire world. Anyone who entered her home or office could see that instantly — the walls covered in photographs, memorabilia, and proud displays of their accomplishments. She took immense pride in the young adults they were becoming.

Saved and baptized as a child, Jenny relied heavily on her faith throughout her life. Though our hearts are heavy with the loss of such a bright and loving soul, we find comfort in knowing she is finally free from the illness that burdened her for so long. She is now happy, healthy, and whole — reunited in Heaven with her grandparents and her beloved dog, Polly — resting peacefully in the arms of Jesus.

Jenny is survived by her cherished children, Jayden Brooke Forsyth and Jake Isaac Forsyth; her parents, Lawrence Olen Bush and Brenda (Fregia) Whitmire; grandmother, Susie Bush; stepmothers, Nelda (JoJo) Bush and Lisa Wilburn; siblings, Joshua Bush, Kenneth Bush, Kayla DeDear, and Kami Lowe; cousins whom she loved like sisters, Jennilea Chase and Stephanie Bush; aunts and uncles, Janet and Adrian Russell, Theda Moore, Cyndi and David Herrington, Rhonda Shivers, Mike and Brenda Bush, Steven and Kim Bush, Keith and Tina Bush, Susan English, and Helen Bush-Vanya; along with many brothers and sisters-in-law, nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends.

She was preceded in death by her grandparents, Cyntha and Chester Fregia, Johnnie Bush, and Joy and Weldon Fregia; by her uncles, Willis Moore, Ronnie Fregia, and Rodney Bush; and by her brother-in-law, Lucas Lowe.

Serving as honorary pallbearers are Jake Forsyth, Joshua Bush, Kenneth Bush, Keith Bush, Steven Bush, Mike Bush, Scott Moore, and Mike Sims.

Our Jenny was a fighter. She was a miracle. She was ours. And we will love her forever.

To send flowers to the family in memory of Jennifer Leigh Bush-Forsyth, please visit https://flowersandmoreindayton.com/.

View Jennifer Leigh Bush-Forsyth's obituary, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

02/20/2026

Jennifer Leigh Bush-Forsyth

Jenny passed away peacefully at home after a long and courageous battle with renal disease and its many complications.

Born on June 8, 1981, in Baytown, Texas, Jenny spent her childhood in Hardin, Texas, where she graduated from Hardin High School in 1999. After graduation, she returned to Baytown, where she remained until her passing.

From a young age, Jenny embraced life with curiosity and passion. She was active in 4-H and FFA and proudly played in the Hardin High School band. She had a deep and abiding love for animals and could never resist rescuing any creature in need. Cats and horses held a special place in her heart. Jenny was a true free spirit — never one to conform to others’ expectations. An artist at heart, she loved to draw, paint, write, and continually redecorate or create something new. She was fascinated by unsolved mysteries and once dreamed of becoming either a veterinarian or a forensic investigator. Halloween was her favorite holiday, and she longed to one day travel to Australia.

Family meant everything to Jenny. She treasured time spent with her brothers, sisters, nieces, and nephews. Yet above all else, she was most proud of her children.

At a young age, Jenny was told that medical complications would likely prevent her from ever conceiving. When she learned she was pregnant with her first child, Jayden Brooke, she was overjoyed. Though concerns were raised about the strain pregnancy might place on her health, Jenny’s faith never wavered. She believed wholeheartedly that this child was a miracle from God — and she was right. She welcomed a beautiful, healthy baby girl who not only shares her mother’s features, but also her creativity, fire, and determination.

Two and a half years later, Jenny brought her son, Jake Isaac, into the world. This pregnancy came with serious complications, including a return to renal failure. Doctors strongly advised terminating the pregnancy due to the risk to her life. But Jenny’s steadfast determination prevailed. She refused to give up on her baby boy. For three months she remained on bed rest, undergoing daily dialysis to sustain him. Though he arrived very early and very tiny, she delivered a healthy baby boy. Jake carries his mother’s compassion, sensitivity, and deep love for animals.

While still being treated for renal failure and recovering from a C-section at St. Luke’s, Jenny insisted nurses wheel her to Texas Children’s Hospital each day, for as long as she was able, simply to be by her son’s side.

Her children were her entire world. Anyone who entered her home or office could see that instantly — the walls covered in photographs, memorabilia, and proud displays of their accomplishments. She took immense pride in the young adults they were becoming.

Saved and baptized as a child, Jenny relied heavily on her faith throughout her life. Though our hearts are heavy with the loss of such a bright and loving soul, we find comfort in knowing she is finally free from the illness that burdened her for so long. She is now happy, healthy, and whole — reunited in Heaven with her grandparents and her beloved dog, Polly — resting peacefully in the arms of Jesus.

Jenny is survived by her cherished children, Jayden Brooke Forsyth and Jake Isaac Forsyth; her parents, Lawrence Olen Bush and Brenda (Fregia) Whitmire; grandmother, Susie Bush; stepmothers, Nelda (JoJo) Bush and Lisa Wilburn; siblings, Joshua Bush, Kenneth Bush, Kayla DeDear, and Kami Lowe; cousins whom she loved like sisters, Jennilea Chase and Stephanie Bush; aunts and uncles, Theda Moore, Cyndi and David Herrington, Rhonda Shivers, Mike and Brenda Bush, Steven and Kim Bush, Keith and Tina Bush, Susan English, Helen Bush-Vanya, and Natalie Bush; along with many nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends.

She was preceded in death by her grandparents, Cyntha and Chester Fregia, Johnnie Bush, and Joy and Weldon Fregia; and by her uncles, Willis Moore, Ronnie Fregia, and Rodney Bush.

Serving as honorary pallbearers are Jake Forsyth, Joshua Bush, Kenneth Bush, Keith Bush, Steven Bush, Mike Bush, Scott Moore, and Mike Sims.

Our Jenny was a fighter. She was a miracle. She was ours. And we will love her forever.

To send flowers to the family in memory of Jennifer Leigh Bush-Forsyth, please visit https://flowersandmoreindayton.com/.

View Jennifer Leigh Bush-Forsyth's obituary, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

02/20/2026

Valarie Sheffield Richert

Valarie Sheffield Richert | December 15, 1956 – February 18, 2026

Valarie Sheffield Richert, 69, of Liberty, Texas, passed away on February 18, 2026, in Houston, Texas.

Born December 15, 1956, in Linden, Texas, to Emmett Herschel “E.H.” Sheffield and Clarice Doss, Valarie lived a life devoted to her faith, family, and community. After attending the University of Texas and Lamar University, she earned her Bachelor’s Degree and began a long and fulfilling career in education. She taught alongside her husband, Tom, beginning in Orange ISD, continuing through Barbers Hill ISD, and ultimately retiring from Liberty ISD after 35 years of service — most of which she spent teaching bright young minds in the 3rd grade.

A faithful member of the First United Methodist Church of Liberty, Valarie served in numerous leadership roles and especially treasured her time as chairman of the Noah’s Ark Board for the Mother’s Day Out program. Her faith guided every aspect of her life, and she poured her heart into the people and ministries she loved.

Valarie found joy in simple pleasures — listening to the Eagles and attending their concerts, tending to her garden with an extraordinary green thumb, spending time at the gym, and shopping with enthusiasm. But above all, her greatest joy was being with her family. Known lovingly as “GrandVal,” she adored her grandchildren, who were truly the light of her life. Those who knew her best will remember her selflessness, her boundless love, and the way she gave wholeheartedly to everyone around her.

Valarie was preceded in death by her father, E.H. Sheffield. She is survived by her devoted husband of 45 years, Tom Richert; her mother, Clarice Wissner; her daughter, Natalie Kelinske and husband Mike; her son, Scott Richert and wife Allison; her sister, Sherri Mauceli and husband Mike; her beloved grandchildren, Caroline Kelinske, Claire Kelinske, and Arthur Richert; one precious grandbaby on the way; mother-in-law Barbara Richert; and her niece, Madelyn Mauceli.

A visitation will be held on Monday, February 23, 2026, from 1:00 to 2:00 p.m. at the First United Methodist Church in Liberty, followed by a celebration of her life at 2:00 p.m. Pastors Josh Hale and Clayton Hall will officiate. Burial will follow at Cooke Cemetery in Liberty.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the First United Methodist Church of Liberty, a place that was central to Valarie’s life and service.

Valarie Sheffield Richert will be remembered for her strong faith, generous spirit, and the unconditional love she shared with her family, friends, and countless students whose lives she touched.

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02/19/2026

Michael Albert Roth

Michael Albert Roth, 59, passed away on February 17, 2026. He was born on October 30, 1966, in Long Beach to Albert Thornton Roth and Helen Dawn Virgil.

Michael was a devoted father, grandfather, son, brother, and friend whose generosity and warmth touched everyone who knew him. He loved nothing more than spending time with his family, especially his children and grandchildren, who were the pride and joy of his life. One of his favorite pastimes was going to escape rooms with his son, creating memories filled with laughter and teamwork.

Michael had a passion for the simple pleasures in life. He loved fishing, going on cruises, traveling to new places, and trying out different restaurants. A dedicated fan of the Dallas Cowboys, he rarely missed a chance to cheer on his team. He was also known for always having a bag of mixed nuts close at hand—a small but memorable trademark of his everyday life.

An enthusiastic cook and grill master, Michael loved to barbecue for family and friends. In recent years, he took pride in perfecting his gumbo recipe, sharing hearty meals that brought everyone together. He was a longtime fan of rock and R&B music, especially the legendary bands KISS and AC/DC.

Michael was a resident of Dayton for the past six years and had previously lived in Baytown, where he built many lasting friendships.

He was preceded in death by his father, Albert Thornton Roth; his brother, Albert Patrick Roth; his beloved wife, Stephanie Williams Roth; and his stepfather, Dennis Grems.

He is survived by his loving mother, Helen Dawn Grems, and Bonnie Carroll; his sons, Chase Isaiah Roth, Noah Linden Mahmood, and Michael Charles Roth; his daughters, Aeriel Marshall; Jazmyne Leney Roth and her husband, Jaylin Nash; and Regan Williams; his brother, Kenneth Roth and wife Hayde; his sisters, Dawn Smith and husband Patrick, Kimberly Edwards, Patricia Gassett and husband Kurt, Jennifer Harris, and Julie Shaw and husband Andy; and his cherished grandchildren, Ca’Mari Corley, Khalil Nash, Kaison Nash, and Aylah Rose Roth. He is also survived by numerous nieces, nephews, extended family members, and many dear friends.

A visitation will be held from 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, February 21, 2026, at Pace-Stancil Funeral Home in Dayton, with a service to follow at 1:00 p.m.

Michael will be remembered for his big heart, his love of family, his generous spirit, and the joy he brought to everyday moments. He leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and unwavering devotion to those he held dear.

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02/19/2026

Maria Antonia Aleman

Maria Antonia "Tia Toña" Sanchez Aleman, 89, of Cleveland, Texas, passed away peacefully on February 13, 2026, surrounded by love and cherished memories.

Born on August 8, 1936, in Mexico, Maria Antonia was a woman of strong character, unwavering independence, and unforgettable spirit. She faced life head-on with grit and confidence, never afraid of long days or difficult work. Strength defined her—not only in what she could accomplish, but in the quiet way she carried herself and remained fiercely loyal to those she loved.

She was known far and wide for her love of dogs and her bright red truck—a true extension of who she was. If you saw that red truck coming down the road, you knew she wasn’t far behind. It became a symbol of her determination, her independence, and her bold way of moving through life.

Maria Antonia found joy in the simple but meaningful things. She had a deep love for animals, especially her dogs and the livestock she cared for. She found peace and purpose in her garden, tending to her many trees, plants, and flowers—each one a reflection of her nurturing spirit and love of nature.

Though she did not have children of her own and was preceded in death by all of her siblings, she was never without family. She poured her love and pride into her nieces and nephews, especially her devoted nephew, Ascension, and his wife, Esperanza, who lovingly cared for her in her later years. Their dedication and compassion embraced her vibrant personality with patience, understanding, and love. She is also survived by her niece and nephew-in-law, Juana and Ignacio Gallardo, along with extended family members and a small but treasured circle of friends. To those closest to her, she was simply and lovingly known as Tia Toña.

Most importantly, Maria Antonia knew Jesus. In her final days, when her sweet nurse gently told her to “it’s okay you can go with Jesus,” she did just that. With the same strength that carried her through life, she surrendered her spirit into His hands. Her family takes comfort in knowing she is now at peace.

María Antonia "Tía Toña" Sánchez Alemán, de 89 años, de Cleveland, Texas, falleció pacíficamente el 13 de febrero de 2026, rodeada de amor y recuerdos entrañables.

Nacida el 8 de agosto de 1936 en México, María Antonia fue una mujer de carácter fuerte, independencia inquebrantable y un espíritu inolvidable. Enfrentó la vida con determinación y confianza, sin temor a las largas jornadas ni al trabajo difícil. Su fortaleza la definía, no solo por sus logros, sino también por su serenidad y su férrea lealtad a quienes amaba.

Era conocida en todo el mundo por su amor a los perros y su camioneta roja brillante, una auténtica expresión de su identidad. Si veías esa camioneta roja venir por la carretera, sabías que ella no se quedaba atrás. Se convirtió en un símbolo de su determinación, su independencia y su audacia en la vida.

María Antonia encontraba alegría en las cosas sencillas pero significativas. Sentía un profundo amor por los animales, especialmente por sus perros y el ganado que cuidaba. Encontró paz y propósito en su jardín, cuidando sus numerosos árboles, plantas y flores; cada uno un reflejo de su espíritu protector y amor por la naturaleza.

Aunque no tuvo hijos y la precedieron en la muerte todos sus hermanos, nunca estuvo sin familia. Derramó su amor y orgullo en sus sobrinos y sobrinas, especialmente en su devoto sobrino, Ascensión, y su esposa, Esperanza, quienes la cuidaron con cariño en sus últimos años. Su dedicación y compasión abrazaron su vibrante personalidad con paciencia, comprensión y amor. También le sobreviven su sobrina y su sobrino político, Juana e Ignacio Gallardo, junto con otros familiares y un pequeño pero valioso círculo de amigos. Sus seres más cercanos la conocían sencilla y cariñosamente como Tía Toña.

Y lo más importante, María Antonia conoció a Jesús. En sus últimos días, cuando su dulce enfermera le dijo con ternura: "Está bien, puedes irte con Jesús", ella lo hizo. Con la misma fuerza que la impulsó a través de la vida, entregó su espíritu en sus manos. Su familia se consuela al saber que ahora está en paz.

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