Harper Funeral Home and Crematory

02/16/2026

Today, as we honor all of our U.S. presidents, what are some little-known trivia facts you know about different presidents? For instance, did you know James Madison was the shortest president at five foot four and weighed barely over 100 pounds? Your turn to share!

02/15/2026

Jonathan Mark Wagner

Jonathan Mark Wagner, 45, of San Angelo, Texas, passed away on February 13, 2026. Born on April 16, 1980, in Brownwood, Texas, Jonathan lived a life marked by faith, excellence, humor, and deep devotion to the people around him.

Jonathan was the beloved husband of Sarah Wagner and a cherished son, brother, grandson, cousin, and friend. He is survived by his mother, Vicki Sue Kuykendall; his brothers, Robert David Kuykendall and Christopher Shane Starnes; his grandmother, Wanda Dietzel; his uncles, Karl Wagner, Butch Wagner, and Wayne Kuykendall; his mother- and father-in-law, Julian and Sylvia Falcon; his brothers-in-law, Gabriel Falcon and wife Theresa Falcon and their children Josiah and Julian, and Jason Falcon and his daughters Mia, Steven Falcon, and Hadasa Perla; and many beloved cousins and extended family members.

He was preceded in death by his father, Mark Cranford Wagner; his grandfather, Billy Joe Kuykendall; his grandmother, Calice Jane Overby Wagner; his grandfather, Silas Crawford Wagner; and his uncles, Robert Kuykendall, Donnie Kuykendall, and Glen Kuykendall.

Jonathan graduated from Angelo State University in 2003 and earned his Doctor of Pharmacy degree from Texas A&M University’s Irma Lerma Rangel College of Pharmacy in 2008. He graduated with distinction, finishing in the top 10% of his class. He was inducted into Rho Chi, the national pharmacy honor society, and Phi Lambda Sigma, recognizing top student leaders nationwide. He also helped establish the Phi Delta Chi pharmacy fraternity chapter and was actively involved in professional leadership throughout his time in school.

While his accomplishments were many, those who walked through pharmacy school alongside him remember something even greater — his character. Jonathan was exceptionally intelligent, yet humble. He could break down the most complex clinical topics with ease, and then shift into laughter and lighthearted conversation just as naturally. He made difficult seasons lighter. He was a steady presence, a trusted friend, and the kind of man who brought out the best in those around him.

After graduation, Jonathan dedicated his professional life to serving his community. He began working at Myers Drug as a pharmacy technician. Later, he served as a staff pharmacist and was then promoted to Pharmacist in Charge. Food King later acquired Myers, and Jonathan transitioned with the company, continuing to care faithfully for his patients. He was known for his compassion, dependability, and genuine care for the people he served.

Jonathan had a lifelong love of sports and was nearly unbeatable in sports trivia. He seemed to know every statistic, every record, and every storyline. His competitive streak was matched only by his sense of humor, and he could always be counted on for a perfectly timed dad joke.

Above all else, Jonathan loved Jesus Christ. He was a devout Christian who poured his heart into his church family at Word of Life Church in San Angelo. He taught Sunday school, led Wednesday night services, and preached when called upon. Jonathan & Sarah joined 420 Fire International Ministry in 2018, where they have faithfully served as leaders. On August 30, 2024, Jonathan and Sarah became ordained ministers under 420 Fire. His faith was not simply something he professed; it was something he lived daily through service, generosity, and unwavering commitment.

Those who knew Jonathan often say you would be hard-pressed to find anyone who didn’t genuinely like him. He was everyone’s friend. He led with humility, was gentle, kind, good-natured, and dependable. He showed up for his people, and he loved deeply.

Jonathan’s life was defined not only by academic achievement or professional success, but by the way he made others feel encouraged, supported, understood, and valued. He leaves behind a legacy of faith, integrity, laughter, and love that will continue to shape the lives of all who knew him. He will be profoundly missed and forever remembered.

The family will receive friends for visitation from 4:00 P.M. – 7:00 P.M. Tuesday, February 17, 2026 at Word of Life Assembly of God Church in San Angelo, TX. The Celebration of Jonathan’s Life will be 10:00 A.M., Wednesday, February 18, 2026 at Word of Life Assembly of God Church.

Family and friends may share condolences and sign the online register book at www.harper-funeralhome.com

View Jonathan Mark Wagner's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

02/15/2026

Betty Faye Cooper

Betty Faye Cooper, greatly loved wife, mother, granny, sister and aunt moved from this life to Heaven on Friday morning, February 13, 2026 at the age of 83 years old. She leaves behind a legacy of love and joy for those who knew her.

Betty was born on March 30, 1942 to George and Winnie Igo in Morton, Texas. She was the youngest of nine siblings and definitely enjoyed many fun and great times with her siblings and their families. The Igo family reunion was an event she enjoyed for many years as she got to spend time with her extended family.

She married George Cooper III on May 26, 1961 and they spent more than 64 years together. If you knew them, you know they were a team and enjoyed being with each other when working or just having fun.

Betty, or Mrs. C as she was known by many, taught children’s classes at church and also kept many children in her home day care for years. Those children became part of her family and she loved to tell funny stories about things they said and did. Above all, there was generally a big smile and laughter when she was in the room with them. She definitely had three bonus “grands” – Beth, Kendra and Lauren – who held a very special place in her heart.

She also loved to sew and her many projects can be seen in her home, at church, or in others’ homes. She loved to make gifts for all the church ladies and gave them on Mother’s Day. There are pieces of her handiwork in many places in San Angelo and Bronte.

The big loves of her life were Jesus and her family. She thought being a mom was great and being a Granny and Great Granny was even more exciting and definitely one of the biggest joys in her life. She always talked about how cute and smart those great grandchildren were and would probably show you every picture in her phone.

Betty is survived by her husband of 64 years, George Cooper; her two children Debbie Ward and her husband, Joe David and her son, George Cooper and his wife LeAnn; grandchildren Landon Ward (Loren), Haylee Cole (Garrett), Burgandee Cooper and Mackenzee Cooper; her great grandchildren Indie, Ellis, Evie, Reese and Rowen; her sister Ida Jones and brother Bill Igo and wife Betty and sister-in-law Lalee Igo and her niece that was like a sister, Rita Cox; and so many special nieces and nephews that were very important to her.

She was preceded in death by her parents George and Winnie Igo; her in-laws George Cooper Jr and Louella Kellar; siblings Wanda Gunnels (Jack), Fred Igo (Juanita), LM Igo (June), Glenna Jones (Charles), Joe Igo, and brothers-in-law Gene Roberts, Jerry Don Cooper (Judy) and Jesse Jones.

A Celebration of Life for Betty will be held on Saturday, February 21, 2026 at 10:30am at Grace Temple Baptist Church. We know that she has fought the good fight, finished the race and kept the faith and is now enjoying time in the presence of her Savior.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Hospice of San Angelo in Betty’s name. They gave exceptional care, for which we are grateful.

View Betty Faye Cooper's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

02/15/2026

Diandra Brooke Carlos (Hirt)

Diandra Brooke Carlos (Hirt), 39, of San Angelo, Texas, went to be with our Lord and Saviour on Friday, February 13, 2026, in her hometown surrounded by the love of her family and friends. Born on November 26, 1986, in San Angelo, she brought a bold, bright spirit into the world that never dimmed.

Diandra was the middle of three siblings and embraced that role with characteristic confidence and energy. Growing up, she spent much of her youth playing sports, getting lost in books, and naturally taking charge of most situations, whether anyone had asked her to or not. That blend of determination and leadership became a defining thread throughout her life.

She was a gifted photographer with an eye for small, meaningful moments that others might have missed. She loved music and movies, and she found peace and joy in being in or around water whenever she could. Some of her happiest times were spent snow skiing with her family, sharing laughter on the slopes and around the fire afterward. Above all else, Diandra cherished being with her friends and family, creating memories that will be held onto for a lifetime. Her greatest pride was being a mother. She poured her heart into her son and counted their bond as her true achievement in life.

Those who knew Diandra will remember her direct personality and unwavering honesty. She said what she meant and meant what she said. If you were fortunate enough to be loved by her, you knew it without a doubt; she loved fiercely, protected wholeheartedly, and stood firmly by the people she cared about. Her presence filled every room she walked into, and her absence will be deeply felt.

Diandra is survived by her father, Mark Hirt; her mother, Odelia Hirt; her brothers, Travis Hirt and Steve Luna; and her beloved son, Elijah Carlos, who was the light of her life. She also leaves behind many friends and extended family members who will miss her humor, strength, and the way she made them feel truly seen. Also a special friend Rusty Simmons, who was with her through thick and thin until the end.

A Rosary will be held at 10:00am on Tuesday, February 17, 2026, at Harper Funeral Home in San Angelo, with a memorial service immediately following. Family and friends are invited to gather, share memories, and celebrate Diandra’s life and the impact she had on everyone who knew her.

In lieu of flowers donations can be made to Memorial Hermann Foundation at https://memorialhermann.org/foundation/donate

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02/14/2026

Larry James Taylor

Larry James Taylor, 81, passed away peacefully on February 12, 2026, after a courageous battle with cancer. He was born in Covington, Kentucky, on February 5, 1945, and moved to Texas at an early age. At the age of 8, he was placed in Boysville, a home for young boys. The experiences and influences of growing up in this environment are a cornerstone for the great man he would become. He lived a life marked by devotion to his family, his faith, and the field of education.

Larry was a lifelong servant-leader who dedicated 54 years to education, 42 of those leading districts as a superintendent of schools, leaving a lasting impact on countless students, teachers, and communities. His steady leadership, integrity, and belief in the power of education shaped generations and cultivated school environments designed for student success.

He was an active member of several professional organizations, including Phi Delta Kappa, the Texas Association of School Administrators, and the Texas Association of Community Schools. He also gave his time to community organizations such as the Lions Club, his local Chamber of Commerce, 4-H as a sponsor and adult leader, and was a faithful member of Southgate Church of Christ.

Outside of his work in education, Larry enjoyed spending time outdoors and staying active. He loved hunting and fishing, was a USTA tennis player, and enjoyed bike riding. Larry also enjoyed a game or three, of video poker, traveling many miles to Oklahoma and New Mexico. It became a family joke that his grandchildren began to question their heritage due to his many trips to “visit the Indians”. These hobbies reflected his steady spirit and love for the simple things in life.

Above all, Larry was a family man. He is survived by his loving wife, Carolyn Taylor, who stood faithfully by his side for 59 years. Together they built a life centered on love, faith, and family.

He was a proud father to his sons, Clayton Taylor and James Taylor. Clayton, who preceded him in death after his own battle with cancer, is survived by his wife, Stefanie, and their children: Dylan and wife BraeLynn (daughter Wrynlee), Lane, and Peyton.

Larry is also survived by his son James Taylor and wife Kelly and their children: Hallie Taylor; Chloe Nickell and husband Dusty (daughter Prairie James), and Sadie Brown and husband Dakota. He is survived by his brother Joe Taylor and wife Elaine. He is loved by sisters and brothers-in-law, many nieces, nephews, and close family friends.

Larry’s legacy lives on through the lives of his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, who brought him immeasurable pride and joy. He loved deeply, led humbly, and gave generously of his time and wisdom. Even in the face of illness, he carried himself with strength and grace.

His life was a testament to perseverance, faith, and unconditional love. Though he will be deeply missed, the lessons he taught and the example he set will continue to guide his family and all who had the privilege of knowing him.

“Well done, good and faithful servant.”

Pallbearers: James Taylor, Dylan Taylor, Lane Taylor, Dusty Nickell, Dakota Brown

Honorary Pallbearers: Joe Taylor, Bob Malesky, Jim Marsh, Ted Cotton, Casey Callahan, Frank Woner

The family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Cheruku and his staff for their attentive and compassionate care. Special thanks to Concho Heart Hospice, especially Jessica, Lyndsey, and Vicki, for their kindness and support. The family is deeply grateful to Rita Gonzalez-Garza for helping them through the most difficult days. They also wish to thank Southgate Church of Christ, Paul, and the church staff for their prayers and encouragement; the cancer treatment teams at MD Anderson and Methodist Hospital for their expertise and dedication; and Harper Funeral Home for their guidance and care during this time.

In lieu of flowers, those wishing to honor Larry’s memory may consider a donation to Boysville Texas https://boysvilletexas.org/donate/, Concho Heart Hospice https://www.conchoheartshospice.com/donate/, Southgate Church of Christ, or a charity dear to you.

A Celebration of Larry’s life will be held at Southgate Church of Christ, San Angelo, Texas at 10:30 a.m. on February 21, 2026.

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02/14/2026

Valentine's Day is about celebrating those we love, so let's take time to appreciate and celebrate those we love and remember those we've lost. Enjoy chocolate and tell someone you love them!

02/13/2026

Judy Donham Wilde

Judy Donham Wilde passed away February 12, 2026. She was born on Father’s Day, June 16, 1940, in San Angelo, Texas to John and Lucille Donham. She attended San Angelo schools and graduated from San Angelo High School in 1958. She attended Texas Tech University for three years where she was a member of Alpha Phi sorority and then graduated from Angelo State University in 1968.

She became a teacher at Central High school in 1968 and retired in 1999. Judy taught American History, government and economics. Judy loved teaching and always enjoyed being around the students. She was awarded the Golden Apple in 1997, which was a highlight of her teaching career.

Judy married Myrl Wilde on August 10, 1963, in San Angelo, Texas. They resided at Vancourt, Wall and San Angelo during their years of marriage.

Judy loved playing bridge and began playing duplicate bridge in 1990. She made many new and wonderful friends at the "bridge room". She had great times going to tournaments around the state of Texas as well traveling to New Orleans, Louisiana, Washington, D.C., Las Vegas, Nevada and Albuquerque and Carlsbad, New Mexico to participate in bridge tournaments.

She was a life long member of the First Methodist Church where she attended Sunday school, Church and MYF.

Judy was preceded in death by her husband, Myrl Wilde, her parents, Lucille and John Donham, her in-laws, Alois and Josephine Wilde, sisters, Kathryn Holdridge and Dorothy Schuch. She is survived by her son, Johnny Wilde from Wall, sister-in-laws, Joan Schwertner, Joan Kothmann, Mary Wilde as well as many nieces and nephews.

An open viewing will be held on Tuesday, February 17, 2026, at Harper Funeral Home from 8:00am-7:00pm. Funeral Service will be held on Wednesday, February 18, 2026, at Harper Funeral Home at 10:00am. A private family burial will follow.

View Judy Donham Wilde's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

02/13/2026

For those who have lost a spouse or partner, Valentine's Day can be a painful reminder of what used to be. If you are dreading the holiday, take a look at these 6 ways to combat loneliness on Valentine's Day and see if any will help you get through the day with a positive outlook.

Are you experiencing loneliness on Valentine's Day following the loss of a spouse or partner? Here are six activities that may help you.

02/12/2026

Nancy Avonne Perry Melton

Nancy Avonne Perry Melton, 88, went home to be with her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, surrounded by her loving family, on Tuesday, February 10, 2026.

Nancy was born on February 21, 1937, to Dewey Cole and Marguerite (Legate) Perry in McCamey, Texas; and was the youngest of eight children. She is preceded in death by her parents; her sisters Phyllis Collins, Genevieve Anderson, Shirley Farrington, and Betty Graves; and her brothers Rex Perry, Clyde Perry, and Jack Perry.

Nancy met the love of her life, John Lavoy Melton, at a football game in McCamey, Texas, where they shared a football program — a simple moment that began a lifetime of love. They were married in 1958 and shared 67 wonderful years together, building a life centered on faith, family, and friendship.

She is survived by her devoted husband, John Lavoy Melton; daughters Lavonne Evers and husband Steve, and Jonna Gaddy and husband Ryan; and her son, Scott Melton and wife Lisa. She was a proud and loving Nanny to her grandchildren Chandra Brown and husband Jason, Janay Gaddy, Coby Evers, Macy Melton and fiancé Oscar Castaneda, and Mallory Melton. Her legacy continues through her great-grandchildren: Dylan Brown and wife Harmony, Delaney Brown, Knox Strieter, and Blaze Gaddy. She was also a beloved aunt to many special nieces and nephews whom she loved as her own.

Nancy dedicated over 30 years of service with San Angelo Independent School District, including Bowie Elementary, Lee Junior High, and the SAISD administration office. However, her greatest passion was her family. She delighted in loving, spoiling, and sending fun emoji-filled text messages to her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

Christmas was Nancy’s favorite time of year. She loved being at the center of her family, enjoying every tradition and every moment together. She carefully chose just the right gifts — and was famous for her Christmas “trash,” the special snack mix everyone looked forward to each year. She would always rally the troops for a memorable family picture to finish up the night. The joy on her family’s faces was her greatest gift.

Nancy and John shared a love of travel and spent many happy years together exploring the country in their RV and visiting other countries, including Canada and Israel. They either went with friends or made instant friends wherever they went. Nancy never met a stranger. She was approachable, warm, and a true giver.

Her faith in Jesus was the foundation of her life. She shared her gifts of prayer, hospitality to many. If something important was missing, the family would say, “Call Nanny to pray — she knows the One upstairs the best;” and lo and behold, they would always find it.

Nancy was a devoted member of Glen Meadows Baptist Church for over 30 years. She dearly loved her Sunday School class and treasured the special friendships she formed there. As a Care Group leader, she faithfully called and checked on the women and couples in her group each day. Many lovingly referred to her as their guardian angel.

Nancy was also known for her beautiful, radiant smile and soft heart. She was famous for her banana pudding and banana bread and loved sharing them with friends and family. Her home and heart were always open.

Visitation will be held Monday, February 16, 2026, from 5–7 PM at Harper Funeral Home. A celebration of life will be held Tuesday, February 17, 2026, at 10 AM at Glen Meadows Baptist Church, followed by a graveside service at Lawnhaven Cemetery. Nancy's grandchildren and great-grandchildren will serve as pallbearers.

The family thanks God for her and the many ways God blesses us all through her. The family invites you to bless others by sharing a gift in memory of Nancy to Glen Meadows Baptist Church Legacy Fund or WTRC’s Hospice of San Angelo.

Nancy’s life was marked by love, generosity, faith, and joy. She leaves behind a legacy of kindness and a family deeply rooted in the love she so freely gave.

View Nancy Avonne Perry Melton's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

02/12/2026

Jewel Lee Yarbrough

Jewel Lee Yarbrough gained her wings February 11, 2026, at the age of 78. Jewel was born to Steve and Mae Lee on December 24, 1947 in Bronte, TX. She grew up with 7 brothers and enjoyed playing volleyball, riding horses and especially photography. She had an incredible kindness in her heart that allowed her to surround herself with family and a tremendous love for Jesus. Jewel is survived by her husband of 45 years, Larry Yarbrough; her only son, Robert; her lovely granddaughters, Krystal, Elizabeth and Cecelia; her beloved great grandchildren, Scarlette, Dimitri, Madelynn, Gaeli and Heidi; her cherished nieces and nephew, Michelle and Thomas and Lisa; and her handsome brothers, Eddie and Billy. The Funeral Service will be 2:00 P.M., Monday, February 16, 2026, at Calvary Baptist Church with Pastor Bobby Roger officiating. The burial will follow at Robert Lee Cemetery in Robert Lee, TX.

Family and friends may share their condolences and sign the online register book at www.harper-funeralhome.com

View Jewel Lee Yarbrough's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

02/10/2026

Delores Fay (Dee) Walker Riojas

Delores Fay Walker Riojas (Dee), 68, of San Angelo, TX, passed away on February 7, 2026, surrounded by her loving family at home. She was born September 13, 1957, in Farmington, New Mexico. Delores was the oldest of one sibling, making her and her big little brother, Dwain, two years apart. She was born to the late Johnny Nelson Walker and Velma Jean Rose Walker. Delores was a beloved mother, sister, aunt, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend whose memory will forever be cherished.

Delores spent most of her life in San Angelo. She attended school and worked many jobs in San Angelo. Her most memorable job duties included Barry’s House Shoe Manufactory Company and Riojas Welding alongside her husband as office manager.

Delores’s greatest achievement in life was her family. She cherished family values and the time spent with everyone that she loved so deeply. Delores had many proud moments in her life, but to name a few was when she became a mother to her son, Weldon, on May 9, 1975. Then, while working at Log Cabin Bar, she met the love of her life, Thomas Riojas, where she gained two more children, Angel and Tommie. Thomas and Delores married on January 25, 1992. Out of the 34 years of marriage, one of their favorite pastimes was to go gambling together.

Delores enjoyed playing games, especially Bunco. She took up painting and really showed off great passion. Delores loved her fur babies, especially her cats, and on occasion a fox or two. She loved her church and helping with Vacation Bible School. Most of all, her favorite thing was being a wife, mother, sister, grandma/Gram Gram, Aunt Lorsey, and friend. Delores loved spending time with her family and friends at all the fun celebrations like school activities, birthdays, and holidays. She never wanted to miss an opportunity to celebrate an achievement or special occasion. Delores loved her Lord and lived life as such. She treated everyone with kindness and loved everyone that crossed her path with an open heart and an open mind. Delores was a selfless person and made sure everyone knew they were loved.

Delores is survived by her husband, Thomas Riojas; her children, Weldon Clark, Angel and husband Wesley Russell, Tommie and wife Jennifer Riojas; grandchildren, Dylan Riojas and wife Stephanie Reutter, Taylor Riojas and fiancée Hunter Connally, Jayme and wife Francisca Russell, Jaxson Russell, Cole Brown, Brayden Riojas, Bryson Morgan, Lexie Riojas, and one great-grandchild, Wilhelmina and another great-grand baby on the way; brother, Dwain Walker; lots of nieces and nephews; and her best friend, Nancy. She was preceded in death by her dad, Johnny Walker, and her mom, Velma Rose Walker.

A graveside service will be held at 11:00 A.M., Friday, February 13, 2026, at Ivy Cemetery in Christoval, TX with Pastor Jay Johnson officiating.

Family and friends may share their condolences at www.harper-funeralhome.com

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02/09/2026

Myrtie Ellen Finley

Myrtie Ellen Finley, age 93, of Odessa, TX, passed away peacefully on February 6, 2026.

Myrtie lived a life defined by devotion to her Lord and Savior, and to her family in quiet strength, and enduring love. She was a deeply caring mother of three, grandmother of four and great grandmother of eight, with many friends and extended family. Her presence brought comfort and steadiness to everyone around her.

Family was the center of Myrtie’s life. She found great joy in caring and praying for others. Myrtie was a long-time member of Crescent Park Baptist Church of Odessa, TX.

Myrtie graduated high school in Bula TX, 1950. She married Leland Earl Finley of Wellington, TX, August 18, 1952. While working various jobs as a bookkeeper, telephone operator, nurse, and salesclerk, however, her favorite position was being a wife and mother, and grandmother.

Myrtie is survived by her daughter, Donna Sue Jones (husband, Kevin) of Athens TX, Larry Dean Finley of Odessa TX, Linda Ann Burns (husband, Ernest) of Robert Lee TX; grandchildren, Christopher R. Jones (wife, Stephanie), Aaron K. Jones (wife, Kelsee), and Kayla O’Neal (husband, Sean), and Amanda G. Burns. Myrtie had eight great-grandchildren, Rylee West, Jude O’Neal, Joshua O’Neal, Mercy O’Neal, Selah O’Neal, Tobias Jones, Bryce Jones, and Hannah Jones, and survived by one sister, Wanda Doak.

Myrtie was proceeded in death by her parents, JD and Ellen Bayless, her husband, Leland Earl Finley, sister, Leta Hall, and granddaughter, Kristyn Burns.

Visitation will be February 10, 2026, from 5-7 at Harper Funeral Home, San Angelo TX. Graveside memorial will be Wednesday, February 11, 2026, at 1:00 pm, at Robert Lee Cemetery, Robert Lee, TX, with Bobby Roger, officiating.

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