July 26, 1928-September 24, 2022

With deep sentiments, I announce that my dad, Mr. Abraham Moonnanappillil, age 94, entered his eternal rest on September 24, 2022. He was born on July 26, 1928 in Thidanad, Kottayam (Dt), Kerala, India.

He was preceded by his parents, Chacko (93)& Elyamma Moonnanappillil (91), his wife, Mrs. Thressiamma Moonnanappillil (86), his first daughter, Elsy (9), and his third son, Babychan (4). Abraham is survived by his children Joseph and Padma Moonnanappillil, Mercy and Jojo Enthumplackal, Johnson and Bincy Moonnanappillil, and Fr. Tomichan Moonnanappillil; his grandchildren Reema and Stanly, Kevin, Remi, Delphi, Ritu, Twisha, and Dinu; and his great-grandchild, Allen.

Abraham and his wife were farmers who worked hard to support the family and educate the children with great love, despite losing two children due to serious illness. Abraham was a man of deep faith and lived his life till the last breath with uprightness and sincerity. He was a man of integrity and made every effort to carry out his responsibilities with a deep sense of justice and sincerity. Dad made sure that we all attended the Sunday services and encouraged us to attend the daily Masses as often as possible. As he got older and the farming responsibilities reduced, he attended daily Mass, even though it was over a mile of a walk, and he continued until he fractured his hip at the age of 89 and was wheelchair bound. Once he could not attend the daily Mass, he spent his day reading newspapers, watching Mass, listening to spiritual talks on television, reciting the rosary, and reading the Bible. On my visits during vacation, I saw him waking up early in the morning to pray the rosary. During my last visit in June 2022, his health was declining, and I witnessed him waking up in the middle of the night to pray the rosary. He would say it aloud so that he would not fall asleep while praying.

He served my home parish community as a CCD teacher for several years. He also served as the parish pastoral council member and treasurer. He always insisted on daily family prayer and would never let us have dinner without reciting the rosary and the devotion to the sacred heart of Jesus as a family.

I can attribute my vocation to the priesthood to the faith and prayers of my dad. Of course, stubbornness is our family trait, which we all have inherited paternally. In contrast, I can attribute my caring, empathy, service attitude, compliance, and counseling aptitude to my mom, a maternal inheritance. I can further attribute my attitude toward discipline, cleanliness, and orderliness to my mom and dad as common traits we have inherited.

I am beginning to feel the absence of my parents, and I think I can now relate better to what it means to miss our parents or loved ones. My dad was laid to rest on September 27 at St. Joseph Church cemetery, my home parish, along with my mom who was buried five years ago. My siblings and I are blessed to have Abraham and Thressiamma as our parents. May the good Lord grant them eternal rest.

I take this opportunity to thank and appreciate each of you for your prayers and support during this difficult time. I will celebrate a Memorial Mass for my dad at 10 am on Friday, September 30 here at St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church. I invite you all to attend.

Sincerely,

Fr. Tomichan Moonnanappillil, MSFS (Fr. Tom)

St. Francis of Assisi Church

4201 De Zavala Rd.

San Antonio, TX 78249

October 31, 1934-September 18, 2022

César de León, age 87 of San Antonio, was taken by the Holy Spirit to his Home on Sunday, September 18, 2022, with his wife and daughter, Leticia, beside him. He was born October 31, 1934 in Brownsville, Texas to Timoteo and Manuela (Saldaña) de León. He was raised in the home of his grandparents, Pablo and Julia (Figueroa) Saldaña. César is survived by his wife, Kathleen Beathard de León; his children, Leticia de León Bradley and her husband, Doug, César de León and Patricia de León; stepchildren, Robert Alexander and his wife Dianne and Stephen Alexander; his grandchildren, Alexis de León, Connor Bradley, Sophie Bradley and Chloe Bradley; step-grandchildren, Ryan Alexander, Patrick Alexander, Mason Alexander, Brooke Alexander and Aydin Alexander; his brother, Eusebio Franco, Jr. and his wife, Mary.

César was awarded a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Texas in 1958 and was awarded a Master of Science degree from Texas A & M University in 1962. He served in the U.S. Army during the Korean Conflict. César was the Chief Engineer at the Western Company and served as Director of the Office of Pipeline Safety in the U.S. Department of Transportation in Washington, D.C. After retirement he traveled throughout Europe, Africa, and Central and South America.

SERVICES
Visitation will begin at 6:00 pm followed by the Vigil Service at 7:00 pm on Thursday, October 6, 2022 at Mission Park Medical Center, 8332 Fredericksburg Road. The Funeral Mass will begin at 11:30 am on Friday, October 7, 2022 at St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church, 4201 De Zavala Road. Interment with Military Honors will follow at Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery, 1520 Harry Wurzbach Road. In lieu of flowers, his family requests contributions in his memory are made to Sembradores of San Antonio, P.O. Box 100674, San Antonio, Texas 78201.

January 15, 1948-August 8, 2022

Carol Anne Kershaw, 74, of San Antonio, Texas, passed away on August 8, 2022. She was born to parents, Edward Chanda and Anne Zimny Chanda, on January 15, 1948 in Queens, New York.

She graduated from Mater Christi HS, Queens College and St. John’s University and received a Master’s degree in Elementary Education.

Carol worked as an educator in Kingwood, Texas for more than 20 years, and as an administrator of Early Head Start. She loved teaching kindergarten because the children were innocent and eager to learn. It was a wonder to her when she taught children of pupils who she taught 20 years earlier or met someone while shopping who remembered her as their teacher.

Carol enjoyed being a part of the Kingwood Bunc-ettes, where she and her fellow bunco players got together monthly, pretended to play Bunco, but mostly shared special moments in their kids’ lives. She also loved to knit and play word games. Her favorite pastime, however, was cheering her grandchildren in their many activities including baseball, basketball, flag football, and soccer. Indeed, she was most happy when all her children and grandchildren were together, the most recent time being in Colorado just a few weeks before her passing.

Ever faithful to our Lord, Carol was an active member of two parishes: St. Francis of Assisi in San Antonio and St. Francis of Assisi in Castle Rock, Colorado, as she and her husband split their year between the two states. She was a member of the St. Vincent De Paul Society, Mobile Loaves & Fishes, Ladies’ Auxiliary of Knights of Columbus, and the Children’s Liturgy team.

Carol met Richard Kershaw as a teenager when they were neighbors. They were married on December 1, 1969 in Queens, New York. The Air Force brought them to Houston, Texas in 1972, where they remained until retirement. Together they raised two children: Meghan (Morgan) Matson and Geoffrey (Alice) Kershaw.

Carol is survived by her husband, Richard Kershaw; her children, Meghan Matson and Geoffrey Kershaw; her grandchildren, Ian Matson, Ryan Matson, Colin Matson, Jackson Kershaw, and Caroline Kershaw; her sister, Mary Nichols; and her brother, Eddie Chanda.

An interment at Ft. Sam Houston National Cemetery will occur on September 9, 2022 at 2 pm. A funeral Mass will be held at St. Francis of Assisi (4201 De Zavala Road, San Antonio, TX) on September 10 at 11 am with a reception immediately after. Fr. Tony Vilano will officiate the ceremony.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to A Women’s Haven- Pregnancy Center, one of Carol’s supported charities. https://www.awomanshaven.com/.

May 28-1942-August 15, 2022

With heavy hearts, we announce that Rodolfo (Rudy) Paredes Muñiz, age 80, passed away on Monday, August 15, 2022. He was born May 28, 1942 in San Antonio, Texas and was preceded in death by his parents, Ignacia and Enrique Muñiz, and brother, Ernest Muñiz. Rudy is survived by his beloved wife of 55 years, Maria (Mary) Ochoa, brother, Andrew Muñiz, sisters, Elisa Craig and Bertha Jones, and his children: son, Michael (Steven) and daughter-in-law Jill, daughter, Michele, and son Christopher and daughter-in-law Anne, granddaughters: Kailey and Bridget, Sofia and Olivia, and Orla, as well as five nieces and three nephews. He was blessed with the love of his entire family.

Rudy was an avid learner, a trait that began at Burbank High School and led to his passion for chemistry at St. Mary’s University and the University of Texas Austin. He served in the U.S. Air Force in 1965 and 1966, a period that forged his interest in military aircraft support. He continued his career as a chemist at Kelly Airforce Base before retiring in 1990 after 26 years of service. An expert in his field, Rudy moved on to form Aero-Tech Metal Finishing, Inc. together with his wife in 1987 which continues today with the support of his son, Michael.

He greeted all people with his sense of humor, generosity, and passion for life. He enjoyed time with dear friends hunting and golfing, and had an affinity for luxury sports cars. Rudy valued his family and his faith. He was a very spiritual man who studied scripture and devoutly supported his family parishes, St. Paul’s Catholic Church, and St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church, where he joined his circle of friends as a member of the Knights of Columbus and the Silver Stars. He found joy in supporting the work of the Hermanas Josefinas in San Antonio, and his family is pleased to honor his lifelong spiritual values through interment at Resurrection Cemetery, which will support the work of the Cordi-Marion sisters who serve the less fortunate through teaching, social work, and prayer.

Rudy was truly blessed; he loved and is loved eternally.

VISITATION

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 24, 2022

6:00-7:00 PM

ST. FRANCIS OF ASSISI CATHOLIC CHURCH

4201 DE ZAVALA RD.

SAN ANTONIO, TX, 78249

ROSARY

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 24, 2022

7:00 PM

ST. FRANCIS OF ASSISI CATHOLIC CHURCH

SERVICE

THURSDAY, AUGUST 25, 2022

11:30 AM

ST. FRANCIS OF ASSISI CATHOLIC CHURCH

COMMITTAL

MONDAY, AUGUST 29, 2022

10:00 AM

RESURRECTION CEMETERY AT CORDI-MARION

ST. JOSEPH’S CHAPEL

Flowers and/or memorial contributions are equally welcome. Charitable donations may be made to Hermanas Josefinas of San Antonio, Texas, c/o Mother Superior Teresa Gonzales, 511 Shadwell Drive, San Antonio, Texas 78228

November 26, 1945-August 11, 2022

On August 11, 2022, Sharon Marie Grahan McGwin left us for a better land and a new life in eternity. Sherry was born on November 26, 1945.

Sherry served her country as a soldier and as a career Army nurse. Her dedication and skill as a nurse and hospital administrator were unmatched. She loved and cared for the soldiers entrusted to her care and ensured they received the very best treatment possible. She was professional and caring with her patients but was tough as nails with anyone who did not have the best interests of the sick and wounded soldiers in mind. Sherry was a “take charge” Army nurse and was admired and respected by all. She retired as an Army Lieutenant Colonel in 1989.

Sherry was married to Chief Warrant Officer Michael D. McGwin for many years. She was the mother of Kate McGwin and the proud grandma of four children and five grandchildren.

In her later years, Sherry dedicated herself to her family and her Catholic faith. As an active member of the parish of St. Francis of Assisi for 15 years, she ministered to the sick and dying. Her many visits to patients brought medical knowledge and spiritual assistance and, no doubt, a boost in their morale.

Sherry was a daily Mass attendant. She was an altar server and often grabbed the hands of a child and asked them to accompany her in carrying the cross or candle. This action delighted both children and parents. Sherry also was an elementary catechist for some years and was active in ACTS retreats.

In the book Ireland, A Terrible Beauty, authors Jill and Leon Uris depict a quintessentially Irish man holding a hoe and looking directly at the camera. He said, “Have yourself a good look now, for when I’m gone you’ll never see the likes of a man like me again.” Remembering Sharon Marie Gahan McGwin brings the same sentiment. You won’t see the likes of her again until you open your eyes in Heaven. Rest in peace good soldier, good woman.

Sherry will be remembered at the daily Mass on August 31, 2022. A reception will follow in Henke Hall.

February 17, 1940-July 25, 2022

Sarah Celis Hildebrand was born on February 17, 1940 and entered into Eternal Life on July 25, 2022. For 82 years, Sarah’s story was a testament to the Glory of Love by receiving and sharing the Glory of God, just as Jesus Christ did. Her life manifested God’s presence in all she did. Sarah was a Godly woman, faithful, generous, spontaneous, funny, kind, and considerate. She was a loving wife, caring mother, encouraging grandmother, affirming aunt, supportive sister, kind friend, and was loved by all who were blessed to know her.

Sarah was married to Jesse Hildebrand, “my honey” for 63 years. They met at a dance in the mid-50s. Sarah often recalled, “Jesse wouldn’t leave my side after our first dance – he didn’t want anyone else to dance with me.” Their love grew strong and on May 3, 1959, they received the Sacrament of Marriage at Our Lady of the Angels Catholic Church in San Antonio, Texas.

They had four daughters, Cynthia Lorraine, Monica Lynn, Donna Yvette, and Marcella Lizette. Sarah was ever passionate about Jesus and the Blessed Mother Mary and raised her daughters with a strong foundation in their Catholic faith. Faith was important as was family. She often encouraged her daughters to pray, “Jesus, Jesus, Jesus” for all their needs, confident that He would help and answer their prayers. Sarah would write notes in her books, devotionals, and calendars proclaiming the Glory of God’s Love stating, “Thank you Jesus for loving us ‘so, so much’ that you gave your life for us! Never leave my/our side. We love you so much.” ~ Sarah Celis.

Sarah was fearless to share with anyone the love and mercy of Jesus. It was not uncommon for her to start a conversation with a stranger telling them how much God loved them. It was amazing to see how people received Him who she proclaimed with an openness of heart and mind. Her boldness to share God’s love was an inspiration to her family and friends.

Sarah was a stay-at-home mom for much of her daughters’ young lives. When employed, she worked at Kelly Air Force Base, Audie Murphy VA Hospital, as a substitute teacher at St. Luke Catholic School, Shaklee sales representative, volunteer at fundraisers and events, and constant supporter of her family and friends.

Sarah (“Mimi”) is survived by her loving husband, Jesse, Cynthia Lorraine (deceased), Monica Lynn Hildebrand, Donna Yvette Dilley (John), and Marcella Lizette Weisbruch (deceased), Doug Weisbruch, grandchildren David Douglas (Katie) Weisbruch, Sophia Joy Weisbruch, Francesca Hope Weisbruch, Faith Danielle Weisbruch, Dominique Grace Weisbruch, Patrick Joseph Weisbruch, Sarah Nicole Dilley, John Michael Dilley, Cameron Edrick (Abbey) Dilley, Trevor Wade Dilley, and great-grandsons Jack Douglas Weisbruch and Collin Patrick Dilley.

Sarah was the third oldest daughter of Jose Ignacio Celis and Ruby Davila. Her siblings are Grace Dominquez, Irma Rivera (deceased), Joe Celis, Jr., Larry Celis (deceased), Ted Celis (deceased), Yvonne Celis (deceased), Shirley Jackson, and Johnny Celis.  She is survived by many nieces and nephews of the Hildebrand, Rivera, Dominquez, Jackson, and Celis families, and cousins of the Rubio, Mochen, and Davila families, and steadfast friends from throughout her life.

Sarah is remembered fondly by her family and friends for her constant words of affirmation saying, “You are so pretty…You are so smart…I am so proud of you…Jesus loves you.”

Sarah loved dancing with Jesse, sitting outside, enjoying the beauty of flowers, watching birds, learning new things, eating hamburgers and ice cream (anything sweet!), and could tell you facts about animals that were astounding. She loved to take rides in the car and throughout her life she traveled with her beloved Jesse in their RV from coast-to-coast across the United States to see God’s creation.

In her final days on Earth, Sarah shared with her daughter Monica about seeing her loved ones in Heaven and being told by them, “We’ve been waiting for you. We love you. We are glad you will be here.” She told her daughter Monica that her dad, Papa Daddy, said to her, “I am waiting for you” and “He loves me.” She reflected that Heaven’s sky was pink, the clouds colored yellow and pink, and “I am going to have a party. Not too big. Just cake and strawberry ice cream.”  Sarah said, “I’m going to talk to a lot of people. I’m going to be praying for everyone.”

This is Sarah’s Story and Glory of Love. To be continued in Heaven…

The Mass of the Resurrection was celebrated at St. Matthew Catholic Church on August 2, 2022.

In lieu of flowers, you may wish to make a memorial contribution to the Cordi-Marian Sisters, 11624 Culebra #501, San Antonio, TX 78253 Attn: Sr. Celina Martin in Honor of Sarah Celis Hildebrand or https://www.cordi-marian.org.

February 12, 1937-July 26, 2022

On Tuesday, July 26, 2022, Hugh F. Mulligan, loving husband and father of three children, passed away at the age of 85. Hugh was born on February 12, 1937 in Meriden, CT to Hugh and Claire Mulligan. In 1959, he graduated from the Citadel and married his first wife, Ruth Mulligan(deceased). They raised one daughter, Sarah (deceased), and two sons, Andrew and Toby. On September 13, 1986, Hugh married his current wife, Billie Mulligan.

Hugh was a proud member of the United States Air Force, serving nearly 23 years and retiring with the rank of Colonel. His assignments included the School of Aerospace Medicine, Pilot Training, and the Heart Program. Upon his retirement in 1983, Hugh utilized his experience and expertise to start a successful business career in the pharmaceutical clinical research industry. His first organization, Facilitators of Applied Clinical Trials, provided a means for Department of Defense physicians to participate in clinical research trials that would benefit their patients. This was followed by a number of other successful businesses including the Institute for Clinical Research and Spectrum Pharmaceuticals. His successful business career enabled him to retire, which didn’t last long. Hugh always had a passion for sports and a desire to serve his community. In February of 2008, Hugh created AQUAS (Assistance for Qualified Underserved Athletic Students) a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping local youths that have proven themselves academically, are involved in their high school and community activities, and have a passion to play their sport at the next level. Hugh spent a tremendous amount of time meeting with families and students, contacting colleges and universities, and establishing a dedicated team of individuals to help gain financial support and opportunities for over 50 local students in the San Antonio area. He was tremendously passionate about AQUAS and continued to be involved in AQUAS until his passing.

Hugh was an avid game player, whether it was cribbage, bridge, board games, or various athletic activities, he was always an enthusiastic participant. He loved the Red Sox and Spurs, the latter of which he was a season ticket holder of over 20 years. Hugh spent many hours coaching, and watching his sons and grandchildren participate in various sporting events. He was an excellent storyteller, who never met a stranger, and easily made friends. While he spent most of his life in San Antonio, his heart was always in Connecticut. He was never happier when he and Billie were able to bring all of the family together to stay on the Long Island Sound, where everyone was able to fish and play games together. Hugh loved spending time with Billie, his children, their wives and grandchildren. He will truly be missed by all who knew him.

Hugh was preceded in death by his father, Hugh, mother, Corrine, his first wife, Ruth, and daughter, Sarah. He is survived by his wife, Billie, four sons, Andrew, Toby, Lynn, Reggie, their wives, Teresa, Shannon, Sally, Karen, and grandchildren Jay, Ryan, Allison, Caden, Lynn, Katherine, Travis, and Elliott.

A funeral service will be held on Friday, August 5 at the St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church at 1 o’clock p.m. Please send donations instead of flowers to the AQUAS organization at www.aquas-us.org.

November 2, 1948-July 5, 2022

Martha Ochoa, age 73 of Robstown, joined her husband in Heaven on Tuesday, July 5, 2022.

Martha was a devout Catholic and prayed the Rosary every night. She was a caring mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend. She will be remembered for her words of wisdom, her creativity, and her green thumb.

She was born November 2, 1948 in Corpus Christi, Texas and graduated from the Texas A & M University – Kingsville with a Bachelor of Arts in Education. She later pursued a career in Elementary Education and taught at Lotspeich Elementary School in Robstown, Texas for 38 years.

She is preceded in death by her husband, Isaac T. Ochoa; her parents, Guadalupe and Francisca Garcia, Sr.; brothers, Hector Garcia and Carlos Garcia; and her sister, Lucy Padilla.

Martha is survived by her son, Gabriel Ochoa, and his wife, Maggie; her grandsons, Judah and Daniel; her brother, Guadalupe Garcia, Jr. and his wife, Mary; her sisters, Sagrario Garcia and Bertha Garcia; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Visitation will begin at 6:00 P.M. followed by the Rosary at 7:00 P.M. on Friday, July 8, 2022 at Mission Park Funeral Chapels North, 3401 Cherry Ridge Drive, San Antonio, Texas 78230. The Funeral Mass will begin at 10:00 A.M. on Saturday, July 9, 2022 at St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church, 4201 De Zavala Road, San Antonio, Texas 78249.

November 10, 1928-June 17, 2022

Virgil Braden, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, passed away peacefully on June 17, 2022. A 76-year resident of San Antonio, Bud was born to Paul and Hattie Braden on November 10, 1928. He is preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Barbara, his siblings Wilfred Braden, Fr. Eugene Braden, Sister Dorothy Braden, Helen Davis, and Dr. James Braden.

Bud is survived by his sister, Frances Murray, brother-in-law, Tommie Davis, sister-in-law, Marie Windlinger, children Paul (Julie), Michael (Donna) Elaine Hutzler (Michael), 10 grandchildren Kyle Braden (Audra), Sean Hutzler (Betsy), Derek Braden (Skye), Traci Doerre (Sean), Todd Braden (Shelbie), Kevin Hutzler, Phillip Braden (Lindsay), Jason Hutzler, Clayton Braden, Bryan Hutzler (Katelyn), 12 great-grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews, all of whom he loved deeply.

Bud graduated from Rosebud High School in 1946 and immediately entered the U.S. Army. After the Army, Bud enrolled and graduated from St. Mary’s University in San Antonio in 1951.

In June of 1956, Bud wed the love of his life, Barbara Windlinger from San Antonio, TX. They lived in San Antonio for the rest of their lives, raising their family and belonging to numerous church and civic organizations.

Bud retired as an Investment Manager for the U.S. Air Force in 1996. He enjoyed playing golf, traveling, and volunteering his time with various church organizations.

The family would like to thank the caregivers from Adante Assisted Living and Memory Care who have cared for Bud for the last few years.

A celebration of his life will begin with a Visitation at St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church, 4201 De Zavala Rd., on July 6, 2022 at 10:00 am in Henke Hall. Rosary and Remembrance Services will begin at 10:30 am with the Memorial Mass to begin at 11:30 am in the church. Interment will be held as a family ceremony at Holy Cross Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests a donation be made to St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church or the charity of your choice.

January 31, 1928-May 8, 2022

George A. (Bud) Bannantine completed his mission on earth on May 8, 2022, in San Antonio. He is survived by his brother, three children, six grandchildren, four stepchildren and their families. Bud was born outside of Moreni, Romania on Jan 31, 1928, to George and Miriam Bannantine, and after living in Vienna and Budapest moved to St. Louis in 1939. He attended Campion Jesuit High School in Wisconsin, then attended and played football at St. Louis University one year before being drafted into the Army in 1946. Upon discharge in 1947 he attended and played football at the University of Oklahoma and earned a degree in petroleum engineering. He was then drafted again in 1950, went to officer’s candidate school, and served in the 82nd Airborne Division, during which time he lost his younger brother, James, in the Korean War. Starting in 1953 he worked for the Superior Oil Company in Midland, TX, Chickasha, OK, Shafter, CA, and Conroe, TX, retiring in 1985. He retired initially in Paris, Texas, and moved to San Antonio in 2000. He was married to Sammye Martin Bannantine from 1955 until her death in 1996 and to Almedia Wiegand Bannantine from 2005 until her death in 2017. Bud was an active member of the Catholic communities where he lived, a driver for Mobile Loaves and Fishes, and a literacy tutor. He was passionate about whatever he did, especially about helping others, and prided himself in his physical fitness and love of sports. His love, generosity, leadership, and determination will be greatly missed.

A Rosary will be held on Friday, June 17, 2022, at 10:30 a.m. at St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church with a Mass to follow at 11:00 a.m. followed by a small reception. Interment will be at 2:00 pm at Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St Francis of Assisi Mobile Loaves and Fishes at https://sfasat.org/MLF/donate.htm.