Memorial Funeral Home & Cremation

05/06/2026

Dr. Casey Leighton Thomas, DVM

Dr. Casey Leighton Thomas, DVM, born August 7, 1955, to William and Marjorie Thomas, passed away on April 24, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family.

Casey was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and man of faith whose life was defined by love, service, and compassion for both animals and others. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Joyce Thomas, whom he married on June 11, 1982. Casey adored Joyce and the life they built together, and after her passing, he continued to live with purpose and love, especially for his family.

He is survived by his daughter, Natalie Rasco (maiden name Thomas), and his son-in-law, Bryce Rasco, whose love, devotion, and care meant so much to Casey and his family. Casey was a proud and deeply devoted “Pa” to his grandchildren—Grayson, Aubree, Madelyn, and Olivia (Libby)—who meant the world to him and brought him immense joy.

Casey dedicated over three decades of his life to veterinary medicine, practicing in Junction City, Kansas, from 1984 to 2014 as the owner of Flint Hills Veterinary Hospital, which he and his wife Joyce proudly ran together. He was exceptional at what he did and had a genuine love for animals of all kinds. Always eager to learn, Casey expanded his care to include exotic animals and even served the animals at the Milford Nature Center. His passion for wildlife and animals left a legacy, especially in his grandson Grayson, whom he taught to fish, identify snakes, and appreciate the natural world.

He was deeply involved in his community, including his work with Fort Riley, and faithfully served as a deacon at First Christian Church in Junction City, Kansas. His faith in Jesus was a steady and guiding presence in his life.

Casey also valued health and discipline. He loved to exercise and took pride in staying physically fit throughout his life—though he never outgrew his well-known sweet tooth. He will also be remembered for his quick wit, playful sense of humor, and the practical jokes he loved playing on family and friends.

In 2014, Casey and Joyce moved to Texas to be closer to their daughter and her family. Those years spent near his grandchildren were among his most cherished.

Casey bravely battled Parkinson’s disease for many years, facing it with strength, resilience, and a positive spirit. He remained committed to his health and found encouragement and friendship through Rock Steady Boxing, where he built meaningful relationships and a strong support system.

Casey will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him. His family finds comfort in knowing he is now in heaven, reunited with the love of his life and with Jesus. His legacy lives on in the lives he touched, the family he cherished, and the love he gave so freely.

A small celebration of life for close family and friends will be held on May 12, 2026. The family sincerely appreciates the love, prayers, and condolences of all who knew and loved Casey. Those wishing to contact the family, share memories, or send condolences may do so by email at kspetdr@gmail.com or through Memorial Funeral Home & Crematory, 802 S Market St., Hearne, TX 77859. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Zoi’s Animal Rescue, a dog rescue in Navasota, or to Rock Steady Boxing in College Station in his honor.

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04/24/2026

Uvaldo "Rudy" Castilleja

Uvaldo "Rudy" Castilleja was born on October 22, 1952, to Alfonso Sr. and Chavela Castilleja of Calvert, Texas. He married the love of his life, Rose Marie Ruiz Castilleja in 1973, where they resided for 49 years in Hearne, Texas.

Survivors include:

Sons: Michael Castilleja Sr. (O'Breka) of Bryan, David Castilleja Sr. of College Station, and Alfonso "Ponch" Castilleja (Savannah) of Cameron

Daughters: Theresa Castilleja of Hearne, and Christina Castilleja of Hearne

His Brothers: Robert Castilleja Sr. (Mary) of Waco, and Joe Castilleja (Mary) of Nacogdoches

His sister: Isabel Perez of Waco

His in-laws: Martha Castilleja (Alfonso Jr.), Sally Castilleja (Paul); Georgia and Ronnie Jutson, Mary Cortez (Johnny), John and Anna Ruiz, Emilia Ruiz (Jimmy), and Stephen and Diana Ruiz

17 grandkids, 25 great grandkids, 2 on the way and numerous nieces and nephews.

He is preceded in death by:

His wife and love of his life: Rose Marie Ruiz Castilleja

His parents: Alfonso Sr. and Chavela Castilleja

His in-laws: George and Josephine Ruiz

His brothers: Alfonso Castilleja Jr., Paul Castilleja, and Enrique Castilleja

His sisters: Gloria Gonzales, Janie Ramirez, and Emma Vigil

Brother-in-law: Carlos Perez, Jesse Ramirez, Robert Gonzales, Jimmy G. Ruiz, Jimmy Ruiz, and Johnny Cortez

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04/22/2026

Claudia Ann Ramsay

Claudia Ann McCollum Ramsay, 94, passed into the presence of her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ on Wednesday, April 22, 2026.

Claudia was born on September 20, 1931, in Hearne, Texas to O.H. and Aba (McMordie) McCollum. She graduated from Hearne High School and then went on to earn an education degree at TCU. While at TCU she met a handsome football player named Jack Ramsay from Henderson, Texas and they married on August 24, 1952, just before their senior year. After a year in Odessa, Texas and Jack’s two-year tour of duty in the army, Claudia and Jack returned to Hearne to join the family ice business with Claudia’s father.

In 1970, Claudia and Jack moved with their two children, Randy and Cathy to Bryan. In 1974, Claudia accepted Jesus Christ as her Lord and Savior. One of the happiest memories for their family was being baptized as a family at Grace Bible Church. Claudia was instrumental in organizing the women’s ministry at Grace and over the years mentored many young women in Bible studies in her home. She loved to see women gathering to study God’s word. Claudia was the administrator and children’s chairman of the first Bible Study Fellowship in Bryan.

When her children started college, she shifted her ministry focus as well. As a couple they began a donut and coffee ministry to the college students at Grace feeding hundreds of hungry Aggie's every Sunday morning! She loved the college ministry and opened her home to many students. She and Jack also generously hosted many church and college class events at their Roberston county ranch, Bucksnort.

Her greatest joy came from time with her grandchildren. Rachel Ann Smith, Hannah Catherine Smith and Ramsay Connor Smith. They called her Gam and she was happiest when she was in their presence.

She is survived by her husband of 74 years, Jack Kenneth Ramsay, her daughter Cathy Smith and husband Kevin Smith of College Station, their children, Rachel, Hannah and Ramsay and his wife Kellee.

Funeral service will be at 1:30 p.m. on Saturday, April 25, 2026, Grace Bible Church, 700 Anderson, College Station, TX 77840.

Graveside service to follow at 3:15 p.m. at New Norwood Cemetery on Norwood Lane in Hearne, TX.

Jack will only attend the graveside service.

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04/16/2026

Timothy Jason Hawkins

Timothy Jason Hawkins, known lovingly as Jason or Tim, passed away on April 11, 2026, at the age of 33.

Jason was born on June 14, 1992, in Katy, Texas, and spent most of his young life in Houston and Waller, Texas. He carried with him a quiet strength and a thoughtful presence that those closest to him will always remember. Intelligent, creative, independent, and deeply passionate, Jason lived life in a way that was true to who he was—steady, intentional, and sincere.

Jason proudly served his country in the United States Army from 2010 to 2014 as an airborne infantry mortarman with 3rd Squadron, 73rd Cavalry Regiment, 1st Brigade Combat Team, 82nd Airborne Division. He completed One Station Unit Training (OSUT) and Airborne School at Fort Benning and deployed with his unit from 2012 to 2013, serving with dedication, discipline, and honor alongside his fellow paratroopers. Throughout his military career, he demonstrated unwavering commitment, courage, and professionalism. His service earned him the Afghanistan Campaign Medal with two campaign stars, the National Defense Service Medal, the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, the Army Service Ribbon, and the NATO Medal. His commitment to excellence was further recognized by the Combat Infantryman Badge and the Parachutist Badge, reflecting both his bravery in active operations and his specialized training. His service stands as a lasting testament to his strength of character and devotion to protecting others.

He graduated from Texas A&M University, magna cm laude, with a Bachelor of Science degree in Electrical Systems Engineering Technology, Class of 2021, and went on to work as a melt shop electrician at Nucor in Jewett, Texas. Jason took pride in his work and approached it with the same dedication and focus he brought to everything he did.

Outside of work, Jason found peace and happiness in the outdoors. Hunting and fishing were among his favorite pastimes, offering him both solitude and connection with nature. He also loved building things and exploring computer science, always drawn to how things worked and how they could be made better.

One of the most important parts of Jason’s life was his bond with his dog, IO. Their companionship brought him comfort, loyalty, and joy.

Jason is survived by his mother, Lynn Hawkins; his father, Gregg Hawkins, and stepmother, Jeannie Hawkins; his grandparents, Paula Hawkins, and Jean and Jerry Richmond; his sister, Amanda Hager, and husband, Chris, and their children, Kayson, Bryson, and Addyson; his brothers, Trenton Hawkins, and wife, Natalie, and their children, Landon, Grace, Savannah, Charlotte, Micah, and Luke, and Daniel Hawkins, and wife, Hannah, and their children, Sawyer, Liam, and Emery; and his stepsister, Chelsea Gibbs, and husband, Mason, and their children, Parker and Emma.

He is also survived by his uncles and aunts, Randy Hawkins and Terri Hawkins; Paul Hawkins and wife, Leslie; and Robert Ives and wife, Belinda; as well as his aunt Belinda, Keith, and many beloved cousins, including Brooke, Grant, Paige, Austin, Ethan, Alissa, Ryan, and Randy.

He is also survived by many other loving family members and dear friends who will miss him greatly.

A visitation will be held on April 21, 2026, at 10:00 a.m., followed by a service at 11:00 a.m. at First Baptist Church Hearne.

Jason will be remembered for his quiet strength, his thoughtful nature, and the love he carried in his own steady way. Though he was not always loud with his feelings, his presence was deeply felt by those who knew him best.

“The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.”

Lamentations 3:22–23

04/16/2026

Jerry Mack Hoyt

It is with a heavy heart that we share the news that Pastor Jerry Mack Hoyt went to be with the Lord on April 10, 2026.

Born July 8, 1941, to Mack William Hoyt and Mary Elizabeth Hughes in Brazos County, Texas.

He attended Elementary through High School in Hearne, Texas.

After graduation from Hearne High School, Jerry joined the Army and became a X-ray technician.

In 1971, he opened Sempco X-ray, which specialized in diagnostic imaging sales, repair and maintenance.

Jerry answered his true calling in 2001, alongside his wife, Jan, they founded Cowboys for Jesus in a one-room barn. He had a profound love for riding horses and a deep passion for winning souls for Jesus, dedicating his life to both with great purpose.

He was preceded in death by both parents, and wife Janice.

Jerry is survived by wife Kay Hoyt; son Stephen Hoyt and wife Carolyn; son Scott Hoyt and wife Marcy; son Charles Hoyt and wife Natalie; Jerry's sister Elizabeth Eberle. He is also survived by many grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces and nephews.

Ride on Pastor Jerry.

Well done, good and faithful servant. Matthew 25:23

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04/05/2026

Happy Resurrection Day! HE is risen!

03/28/2026

Dennis Cook

Dennis Cook, 71, of Calvert, Texas, passed away on March 26, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family.

Dennis was born on January 29, 1955, in Hearne, Texas. He spent much of his life working as a construction worker and climbing telephone poles, a job that reflected his strong work ethic and determination. In 1989, Dennis suffered a life-altering fall from a telephone pole that resulted in a broken back and left him disabled. Despite this, he continued to stay active in his community by doing odd and end jobs, always willing to lend a helping hand to anyone in need.

Dennis was well known for his caring nature and big heart. He was the kind of man who would check on you constantly—sometimes to the point of driving you a little crazy—but it always came from a place of love. He was a worrier by nature, always wanting to make sure those he loved were safe and okay.

Dennis was a believer in God and grew especially close to the Lord over the past few years, finding strength and peace in his faith. Psalm 91 was his favorite Bible passage and brought him great comfort.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Mary Helen Cook and A.B. Cook; his brother, Bobby “Bud” Cook; his son, Kelly Cook; and his wife, Debra Cook.

He is survived by his sister, Anita Lee; his sister and brother-in-law, Rita and Wayne Barker; his son, Dennis Garrett; his stepson, Justin Staley and wife Nicole; his stepdaughter, Temperance Johnson; his grandchildren, Kaden and Tori Johnson, Audrie Hollis, and Camryn Morphis; his great-grandchildren, Paxton Cooper, Walker Hollis, and Silas Morphis. He also leaves behind numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, and nephews, including his niece, Neda Jafari, along with many friends who will miss him dearly.

Dennis will be remembered for his kindness, his willingness to help others, and the deep love he had for his family.

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03/24/2026

William Kent Brunette

William Kent Brunette, affectionately known as Kent, passed away on March 22, 2026, at St. Joseph Bryan.

Born on October 14, 1953, in Cameron, Texas, Kent’s life was marked by a distinguished career, deep community involvement, and a profound love for family and friends.

Kent completed his secondary education at Hearne High School before pursuing higher education at the University of Texas. He further honed his expertise by attending Baylor Law School, preparing for a career that would bridge law, public service, and advocacy. Kent’s professional journey took him to Washington, DC, where he served as a lobbyist for the A.A.R.P., demonstrating his commitment to representing and advancing the interests of older Americans at the national level.

After years in the nation’s capital, Kent returned to his roots in Hearne, Texas. There, he utilized his skills and experience as the Economic Development Director for Hearne. His dedication to regional progress extended through numerous roles within Robertson County, including serving as Director of the Hearne Depot Project. Kent’s leadership significantly contributed to the growth and revitalization of his hometown and county, leaving a legacy of civic dedication and community enhancement.

Kent was preceded in death by his beloved parents, Lois Evelyn Bush and William Jacob Brunette. He is survived by his sister, Carol Broadus and her husband Gary, who, along with their children—Chris and his wife Miranda, Cole and his wife Kailey, Justin and his wife Brandi, and Brady and Brianna—carry forward Kent’s memory. Additionally, he is survived by extended family members Mary Schultz and her family, Susan Meadors and her family, Lisa Sanders and her family, and Butch Morgan and his family, a special mention to Judy and Mike Werlinger and their family and James Shear and his family, who were an important part of his life.

Kent’s life was enriched by many long-standing friendships, and he will be remembered fondly by all who had the privilege of knowing him. His family cherishes the memory of his warm smile, infectious laugh, and the countless updates he shared about his King Charles Spaniel puppies, which highlighted his affectionate and caring nature.

William Kent Brunette’s professional achievements and personal warmth have left an indelible mark on the communities he served and the people who knew him. He will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by his family, friends, and colleagues.

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03/17/2026

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03/16/2026

Dean Lewis

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Willie Dean Lewis, beloved wife of Roy and mother of 6 children. Dean passed away after a prolonged illness on March 13, 2026 at the age of 92, surrounded by her loving family in her home in Milano, Texas.

Willie Dean Moore Lewis was born on November 5, 1933 to Lee William and Mary Lenora (Thorpe) Moore in Lawrenceburg, Tennessee. She was the 9th of 13 children born to William and Mary. She was placed with cousins for a short time due to her Mama’s illness when Dean was born. As soon as her Mom was well enough, she took Dean back home.

It wasn’t long after that they made the move to Camp Creek in New Baden, Texas where they lived as a cotton farming family. She helped work picking cotton until she was in the 8th grade. This was the last grade she completed in school.

Dean was baptized in Franklin, Texas by Rev. “Blackie” in 1958.

Dean married Earl Edgar Lewis on January 28, 1948 and had 3 children by this marriage; Gloria Mae, Nora Constance “Connie” and Thomas Earl “Tommy”. They divorced in November of 1966.

She then married Roy Lewis on May 26, 1967. They had 3 children by this marriage: Lisa Annette, Lillie Janelle and Alana Gale.

She had a full life with many roles including wife, mama, granny, great-granny and great, great-granny; aunt and great-aunt to many nieces and nephews and she had many, many cousins.

She worked outside the home briefly while living in Encinitas, CA in the early 1950’s. She worked as an electronic assembler for Electro Instruments in San Diego and then Palamar Instruments in Palamar, CA where she soldered the pure gold wiring that would be used on the first space craft to go up into space.

She moved back to Texas after her mom died in 1958.

Dean lived in many places in Texas after moving back including Franklin, Caldwell, Bryan, Chriesman, Rockdale, Cameron, Taylor and finally in Milano the last years of her life.

During many of their years together, Roy and Dean built homes in the Caldwell and Chriesman area with Dean serving many roles helping Roy out.

Dean is survived by 4 children, 14 grandchildren, 18 great grandchildren and 7 great-great grandchildren. She is preceded in death by her parents, her husband Roy, her daughter Connie, her son Tommy and all of her siblings.

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03/16/2026

Victor V Cortez, Sr.

Victor Vicente Cortez, Sr., age 88, passed away on Friday, March 13, 2026.

He was born to Dolores and Maria del Carmen Ledesma Cortez on January 22, 1938, in Laredo, Texas.

Victor went to school until 8th grade and in 1972, he transferred to GATX in Hearne, Texas from East Chicago, Indiana to be closer to his mother, who lived in San Antonio. He worked for GATX for 38 years until he retired.

He married Carmen Cortez on December 8, 1958, in the State of Indiana and together they had 6 children.

Victor loved classic cars, watching Western Cowboy movies, American Idol and The Voice. He was a cool dad and the sportiest dad and grandfather of them all and loved being outside on his swing. He loved spending time with his grandkids and great grandkids, and he had a love for cats. He loved dancing and listening to music, oldies was his favorite and he had a great sense of humor.

He is preceded in death by his parents, a sister, his son, Jesse Cortez, his grandsons, Steven Cortez and Christopher Rene Lopez.

He is survived by his wife of 67 years, Carmen Cortez, his daughters, Vicky Hearron, Donna Gonzalez (Jaime), and Angie Garcia (Joe), his sons, Victor V. Cortez, Jr., (Esmer), Dean V. Cortez (Josie), 23 grand children, 55 great grandchildren, 10 great great grandchildren, brother in law Ramon Chavez (Monya), sister in laws, Diane Jasaitis, Theresa Gonzalez, and Florence Taylor (Larry) and many nieces and nephews.

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03/13/2026

Donald Glen "Donnie" Robertson

Donald Glen “Donnie” Robertson, of Hankamer, passed away on March 4, 2026.

Donnie was born December 5, 1948 in Baytown, Texas, to Lee Allison Robertson Sr. and Dorothy Jean Robertson. He grew up in Baytown where he was active in the Boy Scouts and attained his Eagle Scout award. He spent much of his youth hunting and fishing with his two older brothers and their dad, learning various habitats and environments that would later support his career choice. Donnie was sure to advise he hunted with the boys, but he in fact learned how to deer hunt from his mother. Donnie graduated from Robert E. Lee High School in 1967 where he was Co-captain of the swim team. He then enrolled at Texas A&M University. His coursework was interrupted by service in the National Guard, during Vietnam, where he trained as a paratrooper attaining the rank of Sergeant. Post completion of his National Guard service, Donnie returned to Texas A&M graduating with a degree in Wildlife Science in 1973. Donnie often spoke fondly of time spent with friends playing Rugby while attending A&M, maintaining contact with fellow players and sharing memories for 50 plus years.

Post-graduation, he worked at Exxon’s Baytown Refinery for several years, before beginning his career as a Game Warden with Texas Parks & Wildlife. He spent the majority of his career serving from Galveston Bay north through the marshes and pine forests of East Texas. Donnie was stationed in Polk and Harris Counties before retiring from service in Chambers County, where he resided for decades.

Donnie was active in youth sports where he enjoyed umpiring baseball games across multiple levels. He often spoke of time spent participating in the UIL games, preferably behind the plate. That enjoyment lead to frequent trips to Austin, for the UIL State Baseball Tournament with his brother. Donnie was a horse trader, freelance car dealer, and collector of many things throughout his life. He saddled his horse for many years for the Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo security team. Donnie volunteered his time for many years and held a lifetime committee badge. During retirement his love for the outdoors never wavered and he would regularly tell folks, “All I do is hunt and fish”. From the South Texas Brush around Hebbronville, Granite Outcroppings of Willow City, River Bottoms of Wyoming, and the Rich Farmland of Northern Oklahoma, Donnie was willing and ready to chase white-tail deer, wild hogs, ducks, antelope or exotics on land with his brother and nephews. Donnie also enjoyed fishing for crappie, chasing trout / redfish in the bay, and shark fishing from the beaches. Donnie thrived on reliving those stories and sharing memories of adventure with his friends whom he met up with. As a creature of habit he told those stories often to friends during his daily trips around Winnie and Baytown.

After retiring his brother would ask him what are you doing tomorrow, and Donnie would always respond, “Uh…think I’ll take another day off.” Now, his loved ones request he take another day off and rest in peace.

Donnie was preceded in death by his parents, Lee and Jean Robertson, and his older brother Lee Allison Robertson, Jr. He is survived by his brother, James Edward Robertson (Debbie); his niece, Roxanna Liu (Ronald); his nephew, Beau Robertson (Amber); his nephew James Bryan Robertson (Eryn); his sister-in-law Peggy Robertson; nephew Cole Robertson (Robyn); his niece Casey Jo Chapman (Jeff); his nephew Cody Robertson (Angie); and seven great-nieces and seven great-nephews. Also his uncle, Thomas Reynolds, Jr., cousins Dowana Bates, Quinda Bennett, Tommy Reynolds, Kay Sluder, Wanda Brosch and Jenny Gwosdz, as well as extended family and friends.

The family would like to express special thanks and appreciate to Bryan and Eryn for their unending support and care to provide for Donnie during this difficult time. “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble…”Psalms 46:1.

A graveside service will be held in Hearne, Texas’ Norwood Cemetery on Friday March 20th at 11:00am with Scott McIntosh officiating. Arrangements under the direction of Memorial Funeral Home & Crematory.

A celebration of life for friends and loved ones will also be held on a later date in Winnie, Texas.

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