Colorado County Obituaries

"Alley"

Do you have old obituaries you would like to share?

 

Alley, Abraham

See article from Handbook of Texas

Alley, Alex

Alex Alley

Alex Alley died in the Eagle Lake Hospital Jan 17.

He was a son of George and Emma Harbert Alley and was born in Colorado County. He attended public school and was a life-time resident of this community. He was married to Mrs. Adline Henry, Dec. 18, 1918. He was a retired farmer and a member of St. Paul United Methodist Church.

Surviving are his wife, 2 step-daughters, Mrs. Vera Yarbough of Midland and Mrs. Grace O. Winn of Columbus; one step-son, Townsend Henry of Columbus.

Funeral services were held from St. Paul United Methodist Church Jan. 20 at 2:30 p.m. with Rev. C. J. Houston officiating. Ben Davis Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements. Interment was in Willing Worker’s Cemetery.

Colorado County Citizen, January 27, 1972

Alley, Andrew Sr.

Memorial

In memory of our beloved husband and father, Andrew Alley Sr. who passed from this life January 29, 1956.

Almost a year has passed since we parted. During each day of this past we have maintained reflecting memories of you, for time can not erase the memory of such a devoted one as you.

This live is as fleeting moments after which real life begins where every day will be Sunday and sabbath will have no end. [Interment in Gay Hill Cemetery]

Evelyn Alley and Children

Colorado County Citizen, January 24, 1957, page 9

Alley, Annie Alice

Eagle Lake Items

Died at Ramsey’s Point on Tuesday night of last week, Alice the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. J. R. Alley. Little Alice was a very bright and interesting child, and we sympathize greatly with the bereaved parents [Interment in Alley Cemetery]

Colorado Citizen, September 19, 1889, page 3

Alley, Earl Fulton

Earl Fulton Alley Dies of Injuries From Collision

Earl Fulton AlIey of Eagle Lake died early Monday of injuries received in a pIckup-car collision about 3 a.m. Sunday 2 miles west of Rock Island, becoming Colorado county's first traffic fatality of 1954.

Mr. Alley was thrown from the rear of a pickup truck after It had collided with a car driven by Fred C. Sulek, 23, of Louise, according to Highway Patrolmen Leon Wilson and Dan Aultman.

No one else was hurt In the collision, the officers said.

4 in Pickup

The pickup was being driven toward Sheridan by Henry Marsalla, 36, Eagle Lake Rice farmer. Mr. Wilson said, and 2 passengers, whose names were not available, were in the cab with him.

Mr. Alley was taken to Laughlin hospital in Eagle Lake where he died early Monday. He was injured about the head and chest, the officers said.

They reported that Sulek and Walter Staff were returning from a dance at Hallettsville, and that the 4 men in the pickup had attended a dance at Altair. [Alley was interred in the Alley Family cemetery.]

Colorado County Citizen, February 18, 1954, page 1

Alley, Elvin Rubin Sr.

Elvin Rubin Alley Sr., 75, passed away Sunday, Jan. 20.

He was born to Andrew and Minnie Alley Sr. on Feb. 25, 1926 in Columbus. He was an active member in the Masonic Lodge and served as worshipful master for many years. He was married to Ida Lee Carter on March 1, 1946 and they had three children .

He received his education in the Columbus Public School System and was a member of St. Paul United Methodist Church.

He is survived by his sons and daughter-in-law, Elvin Alley, Jr. of Columbus, Benjamin and Gennie Alley of Houston; daughter Janelle Willis all of Columbus and grandchildren, Bryce Alley of Houston, Phillip II, Paige and Preston Willis of Columbus; and siblings, Willie Alley of Brementon, Wash., Ruth Ward and Woodie Alley of Columbus.

Funeral services took place Jan. 23 at St. Paul United Methodist Church in Columbus with the Rev. Charles Purnell, Jr. officiating.

Interment followed in Gay Hill Cemetery in Columbus.

Pallbearers were members of Prince Hall Lodge #18.

Honorary pallbearers were Billy, Eddie "Gene," Kenneth, Larry, Marvin and Woodie Alley, Finest Axel, Robert Bryant, Simon Evans, Andrew Johnson, Smokey Leyendecker, Cecil Mooney, Gene Spalek and James Wooten III.

Colorado County Citizen, January 30, 2002
Courtesy of the Citizen

Alley, Fielding

Negro Killed

Fielding Alley, a negro laborer of about 55 years, was killed in a gravel bank south of town Tuesday when a ledge caved in.

He was working for contractor J C. Obenhaus, who is mining and hauling gravel for the east approach to the new river bridge here.

The bridge is closed to traffic while this work is in progress. [Place of interment unknown]

Colorado County Citizen, November 3, 1932

CAVE-IN KILLS NEGRO

Columbus, Texas, Nov. 2.--Feeland Alley, negro age 50, and a life-long resident of Colorado county, was instantly killed today when he was covered by a cave-in of a bank of gravel, from which he had been digging.

Weimar Mercury, November 11, 1932, page 7

Alley, J. D.

J.D. Alley

J.D. Alley, age 71, of Houston, passed away Thursday, January 23, 1992, at the M.D. Anderson Hospital following a lengthy illness.

A native of Colorado County, he was born in Ramsey, July 7, 1920, to Joseph Daniel and Della Parker Alley. He attended local schools and graduated from Columbus High School.

On Nov. 12, 1942, J.D. Alley entered and served honorably with the U.S. Army during World War II. He earned the rank of sergeant, serving in France, Ardennes, Rhineland and Central Europe with the 30th Infantry Division. He was awarded the bronze star, combat infantry badge, good conduct medal and Eame Theater service medal.

Following the war, Alley moved to Houston and began as a welder for the Hughes Tool Co. He retired in 1983 after 25 years of service. Also he had been an active member in the American Legion in the Houston area.

He was preceded in death by his parents; a sister, Edna Mae Nohavitz; and brothers, Earl, John, Ross, Felton and Wylie Alley.

Survivors include his sisters, Mrs. Aileen Glick of Eagle Lake, Mrs. Dolly Jean Marsalia of Round Rock; a host of nieces and nephews and other relatives.

Funeral services were held at 2:30 p.m., Sunday, Jan. 26, from the chapel of Dulany Funeral Home, with Rev. Shelley Alley of Houston and Rev. Charles Miller of Eagle Lake officiating. Graveside service and interment followed in the Alley family cemetery near Ramsey.

Pallbearers were Ed Shindler, Van Land, Fred Frnka, Bobby Joe Marsalia, Mark Guthman and Mike Alley. Flag presentation ceremony was under the auspices of W. Cherry-M. Perry Post #108 of the American Legion, Eagle Lake.

Sympathy is extended to the family in their loss.

Eagle Lake Headlight, 30 Jan 1992, page 4
Contributed by Matt Cross

Alley, James

MURDER CHARGED COLUMBUS NEGRO

James Alley, 33, died of gunshot wounds about 9 o’clock Wednesday morning, in Columbus Hospital, and Ray Mitchell, 23, has been charged with murder. Both are Columbus negroes.

Alley was shot twice with a .22 caliber rifle about 10:30 Tuesday night as he walked from the Butler filing station toward the Golden Leaf, cafe for colored [Interment in Willing Worker Cemetery]

Weimar Mercury, April 3, 1953, page 1

Alley, John McLeary

John McLeary Alley Buried at Columbus

Columbus. June 13.--Funeral services were held at the family home in Glidden for John McLeary Alley, 70, grandson of Abram Alley, one of Stephen F. Austin's original colonists. Rev. C. B. Diltz of the First Methodist Church, Columbus, officiated. Interment was in Odd Fellows Rest here.

A diary, which Mr. Alley had kept for 48 years, has been helpful to many a student of history and settled many an argument on dates and the weather. Mr. Alley was a son of John and Jodie Wright Alley and was born at Osage, one-time flourishing community of this county.

Surviving are a daughter. Mrs. Frank Haynes of Glidden; two grandchildren. Mrs. Harold Gloeckler and Frank Haynes, Jr., Glidden; three brothers, Shelley Alley of Houston, Alvin Alley of Ramsey and Roy Alley, Beaumont; two sisters, Mrs. Haywood Parker, Ramsey, and Mrs. Thelma Perry, Houston.

Weimar Mercury, June 16, 1944, page 4

Alley, Lem

Lem Alley, 87, a Colorado County native, died Sunday, May 1, 1994.

Born Nov. 22, 1906, he was the son of Bill and Hennie Alley. He was married to the former Laura Lowe and was an employee of the City of Columbus for many years.
Funeral services were held Thursday, May 5 at The First Church of the Nazarene in Columbus, Rev. L. Burney, pastor, with Rev. G. W. Clark officiating. Interment followed in Willing Worker's Cemetery, Columbus. Ben Davis Funeral Home, Columbus.

Pallbearers were William Wright, Donald Green, Jimmy Evans, Eddie Glover, Robert Wright, R. C. Jenkins and Billy Glover. Serving as honorary pallbearers were Mr. Alley's nephews.

Mr. Alley is survived by two brothers, Lelious Alley and Tom B. Alley and wife Jessie, all of Columbus, two stepdaughters, one stepson; and a host of other relatives and friends.

Colorado County Citizen, May 11, 1994, page 12

Alley, Mary Estelle (Turnbough)

MRS. J. M. ALLEY

The death of Mrs. J. M. Alley occurred at her home in Glidden last Thursday night at about eight thirty, following a stroke of apoplexy that morning.

She had just written a telegram of condolence to Mrs. R. R. Garrard of Bastrop, at about ten o’clock Thursday morning and as she turned to give the message and some change to her daughter the coins dropped from her hand and when she stooped to pick them up her daughter noticed that she was groping and seemed unable to control the movement of her hand. As she was about to fall from the chair her daughter supported her and assisted her to the bed, where she remained in a semiconscious condition until the end came.

Funeral services were held at the family residence at ten Saturday morning, Rev. Harrison of the Baptist church of Glidden conducting, and the remains were laid to rest in Odd Fellows Rest here.

Miss Mary Estelle Turnbough was born in Columbus in 1878. She was reared here and lived with a sister in Eagle Lake for a number of years. In 1897 she married Mr. J. M. Alley and they moved to Glidden in 1901, where they have lived since.

Mrs. Alley was an energetic, public spirited lady, always taking a keen interest in the community life about her. She was ever ready to assist in ministrations to the sick, neighborly and sympathetic in her relations to the well, and was constantly engaged in some unselfish work of love. For the past two years she has been one of the best correspondents The Citizen has had.

She is survived by a heart broken husband and one daughter, Mrs. T. W. Maxwell, Jr., to whom our deep sympathy is extended.

Colorado Citizen, December 10, 1925

Alley, Mary Laura (Cook)

Mary Laura Cook Alley

September 5, 1926 • September 1, 1990

Mrs. Mary Laura Cook Alley, 63, of Alleyton, passed away Saturday, September 1, 1990 at her residence following a lengthy illness. She was born in Gonzales, Texas, on September 5, 1926 to Ira and Effie Hutchins Cook. She married Wylie Wayne Alley on May 9. 1943 and has been a resident of Colorado County since and was a member of the First Baptist Church of Eagle Lake. Mary is known and loved throughout the many businesses that she has operated in Eagle Lake and Columbus. Mary catered to many customers, both paying and non-paying, but not only in meals alone. Mary fed everyone with kindness and a grace that some can only wish to possess. Mary was an only child, but did not need lessons in caring and nurturing her eleven children and many grandchildren. Babies, food and friends are what Mary was all about. Words will never express how much this rose will be missed, although her love will bloom forever.

She was preceded in death by her parents; a daughter, Elizabeth Ann; twin sons, David and Daniel; and step-mother, Josie Lee Cook. Survivors include her husband, Wylie W. Alley of Alleyton; daughters and sons-in-law, Elnora Inez and Daniel Matura of Altair, Gladys Marie and Fred Owens of Eagle Lake, Jessie Earline and Milton Blount of Victoria, Billie Jean and Marcus Guthmann of Eagle Lake, Bonnie Pearl and Connie Merle Alley both of Columbus; sons and daughters in law, John Wayne and Sharon Alley, Joe Thomas Alley all of Ramsey, Gary Monroe and Rochelle Alley, Michael Ray and Tracey Alley all of Eagle Lake; 22 grandchildren and three great grandchildren.

Funeral services were held at 2 p.m., Tuesday, September 4, 1990 from the First Baptist Church of Eagle Lake with Rev. David Mann officiating. Interment followed at the Alley Cemetery near Alleyton. Pallbearers scheduled were Bruce Cason, John Perry, Ike Ethridge, Gilbert Wilbeck, Ricky Simmons, and P.L. Butler. Arrangements were under the direction of Dulany Funeral Home of Eagle Lake.

Sympathy is extended to the family in their loss.

Eagle Lake Headlight, 6 Sep 1990
Contributed by Matt Cross

Alley, Nancy (Millar)

Died at her residence in Colorado county, some six miles below Alleyton, Saturday October 28, 1893, Mrs. Nancy Alley, aged 76 years. [Interment in Alley Cemetery] Another one of the first settlers of Texas has passed away- another home desolate. A truly noble whole-souled woman has gone from our midst, and will be sadly missed. The writer of his sketch knew her long, intimately and affectionately. Being scarcely more than an infant when my parents moved to the neighborhood in 1840, and growing up in happy companionship with her children, almost as brothers and sisters. My mother and she were neighbors and intimate friends for more that thirty-five years.

We knew her as one who lived as nearly up to the golden rule-“Do unto others as you would be done by”-as any one we ever knew. A kind and gentle wife; an affectionate, patient mother; a true and sympathetic friend; a woman of much intelligence-one who read extensively, and with a clear understanding; well informed in history and the current topics of the day.

She was ever inclined to throw the mantle of charity over the faults and follies of others-kind and generous hearted, always ready and willing to help the poor and the needy or the unfortunate: yet so quiet, modest and retiring, so averse to notoriety or display, that few outside of her neighborhood knew her worth, or could appreciated her lovely character.

She was the mother of nine children, four of whom – three sons and a daughter (Mr.s M. E. Dawson) survive, with many friends, to mourn her loss. She has also one surviving brother, Daniel Miller, now living in Georgetown, Texas. For the past seven or eight years she has been able to read even fine print without the aid of glasses, but her health has been delicate for several years, and her memory fast failing, especially in matters of recent date; otherwise her mind was clear, and she was able to be up going about the house until five days before her death, when she was taken ill.

Mrs. Alley was the second child of Dr. John and Mrs. Elizabeth Miller, nee Payne, and was born in Tatnel county Ga., Sept. 13, 1817. While she was yet an infant her parents moved to Morgan county, near Decatur, Ala. Dr. Miller came with his wife and five children to Texas in 1831- Nancy, the subject of this sketch, 14 years old. Arriving in Colorado county in the summer they settled on the west side of Colorado river, seven miles below Columbus at a crossing then known a Atasca Sita, (pronounced Tuskyseet.) Here, amidst the dangers, privations and exposure of a new and thinly settled county; the family were stricken down with smallpox, the servants having contracted the disease when they came through New Orleans. They all suffered terribly from this disease. Two of the children-William and Julia Miller-died with it. Dr. John Miller, the father, died Oct. 21, 1831, of hardship and exposure. His widow married Jacob Betts, who did not live long afterward, and his wife soon followed him.

Nancy Miller and Abraham Alley (brother of Ross Alley of Texas history) were married April 26th, 1835. In 1836, when the Mexicans were invading the country, Mr. Alley removed his family to the Trinity, where they were encamped when the battle was fought. Mr. Alley and Daniel Miller, Mrs. Alley’s brother, were both in the battle of San Jacinto.

Soon after the battle Mr. Alley returned with his family to Colorado county and settled on the east side of the river, near their first home. Here he died in 1862, respected and esteemed by all who knew him. And here, in the presence of her children, grandchildren and many friends, the remains of Mrs. Nancy Alley were laid to rest October 29, 1893 in the family graveyard, near father, mother, brothers and sisters, husband and children, who had preceded her-

“No more to suffer or to sigh:
No more to sorrow or to die,
She lived as peaceful as a dove;
She died as blossoms die;
And now her spirit floats above,
A seraph in the sky.”
November 22, 1893. A Friend

Submitted by Laura Ann Rau

Columbus Citizen:
Mrs. Nancy Alley of Alleyton died at her residence last Sunday, and her remains were committed to earth in the family burial ground next day, aged 67 yers. She was an old Texan, having been a resident of the state nearly fifty years.

Weimar Mercury, November 4, 1893, page 2 

Alley, Peter Hoover

____ DIED ____SUNDAY MORNING
(newspaper was torn)

After an illness extending over a period of nearly four years, Mr. P. H. Alley, son of Mr. and Mrs. J. R. Alley of Ramseyville, died at the family home at that place on last Sunday morning at 9:15 o’clock.

The funeral was held on Sunday afternoon at 1:30 o’clock, with burial in the Ramsey cemetery, Rev. C. P. Morgan of Columbus conducting the services.

The decedent was twenty-nine years of age, and a young man of many fine traits of character. He was very popular and enjoyed the friendship and esteem of all who knew him.

He is survived by his mother and father, Mr. and Mrs. J. R. Alley, his wife and two children, Ervin, seven years old and Bernice, five years of age, five brothers, Dan Alley, Shelley Alley, who is in the service and stationed at Camp Travis, Alvin Alley, Ray Alley and J. M. Alley, the latter of Glidden, and four sister[sic], Mrs. Arthur Perry of Galveston, Mrs. George Truitt of Palacious and Miss Florence Alley, who have the smypathy[sic] of the entire community.

Eagle Lake Headlight, January 25, 1919

OBITUARY, --On January 19th, 1919, the spirit of P. H. Alley took its flight to that brighter realm, where pain and sorrow are not known and from whence no traveler ere returns.

After four long years of suffering with the dread white plague, and after four years of the most loving and tender care from a devoted wife, mother and sister, he finally gave up the fight and passed to the great beyond.

Peter Hoover Alley was born March 16, 1888, at the old homestead at Ramsey, Texas, and spent most of his life around the familiar scenes of his birth place. Pete, as he was familiarly called by his many friends, was a good boy, and was liked by every one who knew him.

On May 14, 1910, he was married to Miss Ollie Lange of Alleyton, and to this union two bright children were born, Irvin, a boy, eight years old, and Bernice, a girl, six years old, who are deprived of a father’s love and care.

He leaves a wife and two children, a father and mother, three sisters, and five brothers besides a host of friends to mourn his loss.

To those to whom his life was devoted, ‘tis hard to say a comforting word, yet a star of hope illuminates the night of their sorrow, for before his death he gave himself up wholly to God’s will, and died happily in the security of His love and salvation.

The same thought brightened his dying hours, the thought that every night of death is followed by a morning of resurrection, is the comfort of those left behind.

The blessed doctrine of the resurrection throws a halo over each christian headstone, and makes each grave an open gate leading into Glory, for after all death is but a path that must be trod, if man would ever pass to God.

His cherished remains were committed to earth in the Alley burial ground Monday afternoon, January 20th., Rev. C. P. Morgan of Columbus officiating at the residence and grave.

Peace to his ashes!

M. E. A., Glidden, Texas.

Eagle Lake Headlight, February 1, 1919

Alley, Shellie

NEGRO MURDERED NEAR EAGLE LAKE

NEGRO FOUND DEAD IN HIS HOME; CIRCUMSTANCES INDICATE MURDER.

Shelley Alley, negro about 44 years old, and well known to everybody in and around this community, was found dead in his home on the Eagle Lake-Altair public road near the Colorado river bridge, on the J. A. Harbert farm. He was found by another negro named Dick Brooks, Thursday morning, who came to Eagle Lake and notified officers at once. Sheriff Wegenhoft of Columbus is working on the case.

The last time Shelley Alley was seen alive was Monday night at church near where he lived, a protracted meeting being in progress there. He evidently met his death that night, as when found he was partly undressed as if in the act of retiring, and two empty shot gun shells were found on the outside of the house near the window. The screen over the window contained a hole which would indicate that Alley was shot from the outside through the screen.

Alley’s reputation among the people here generally was all right and considerable mystery surround the killing. It is understood that Alley and his wife are separated.--Eagle Lake Headlight. [Place of interment unknown.]

Weimar Mercury, August 25, 1922, page 2

Alley, Shelly Lee

Shelly Lee Alley Services Held In Eagle Lake

Funeral services were held at Mill-Bauer Funeral home in Eagle Lake yesterday (Wednesday) afternoon for Shelly Lee Alley, who died in Veterans hospital at Houston Monday after an illness of almost a year. Military graveside rites were held and burial was in the family plot at Alley cemetery near Ramsey.

Mr. Alley had a dance band at one time. He was a veteran of World War I. Survivors include his widow, Mrs. Velma Alley and sons, Shelly Lee Jr. and Clyde Brewer Jr. of Houston; brothers, Alvin of Eagle Lake and Ray of Houston; and sisters, Mrs. Thelma Carey of Houston and Mrs. Florence Parker of Eagle Lake.

Colorado County Citizen, June 4, 1964

Alley, Thomas "PeeWee" Jr.

Thomas “Pee-Wee” Alley

On September 16 at home, God bent down and kissed his “Precious Jewel”.

January 10, 1946 the sun rose bringing forth a beautiful rose to Emma and Thomas Alley, Sr. named Thomas Alley, Jr.

“Pee-Wee” as he is affectionately known attended school in Columbus and San Antonio.

Thomas began his confession in Christ at an early age in Columbus and continuing in San Antonio under Rev. L.A. Crenshaw of Palestine Baptist Church.

He moved to Houston where he was a hard and dedicated worker at a local bowling alley for 12 years.

Thomas later decided to make San Antonio his home and joined back with this Christian family of Palestine Baptist Church served with the a late Rev. of Palestine Baptist Church doing ministry work for the sick and shut ins serving faithfully until his health began to fail.

During his residence in San Antonio he became employed with Luby’s Restaurant for 25 years becoming an employee owner until his health began to fail.

He moved back with his second mother (first cousin) Lucille (Bobbie) Green and family until God saw fit to call him home.

Thomas was a son, father, uncle, cousin and friend whom we will meet again. He loved his family and friends.

Thomas leaves a legacy of life shown through a loving mother, Emma Stewart; second mother, Lucille Green; one daughter, Joyce Marie Sexton of Gonzales; three grandchildren, Heather Cheriee Patterson, Krisslynn Irene Sexton and David Alexander Sexton all of Gonzales; two nieces, Lisa Felton-Bowdy and Melania Stewart; great-niece, Carolyn Bowdy; great-nephew, Jay Bowdy; four great-great nephews; and a host of other family and friends.

A celebration of his life was held Saturday, the 26th day of September, at one o’clock in the sanctuary of New Greater Smith Chapel Baptist Church in Columbus with Rev. J. Hargrove officiating. Interment followed in Gay Hill Cemetery.

Arrangements entrusted to Ben Davis Funeral Home in Columbus.

Pallbearers were Lloyd Rector, James Boyd, Clide Walker, Paul Ashton, Carnell Walker and Joe Echols.

Honorary pallbearers were Eddie Glover, Jr., Michael Wright, John Wright and Jay Bowdy.

Sympathy is extended to the family in their loss.

Eagle Lake Headlight, October 1st, 2009

Alley, Tom B.

Alley

Brother Tom B. Alley of Columbus passed away May 30.

He was born April 8, 1909 to William and Hennie Alley. He was a retired farmer and worked most of his life in Columbus. He joined Columbus First Church of Nazarene where he remained a member until the end. He was given a commemorative inscription for being the oldest member of the church.

He is preceded in death by his parents, five sisters, five brothers, two wives and son and five grandsons.

He is survived by six grandchildren, Joe Alley, Brenda A. Shepherd, Helen A. Griffin and Thomas Booker, all of Houston; Marvell A. Griffin of Washington and Donald R. Alley of Los Angeles, Calif.; step and grandchildren; 20 great, great grandchildren and special person Cat Alley.

Funeral services took place Saturday, June 7 at the Columbus First Church of Nazarene in Columbus with the pastor M. Thompson officiating. Interment followed at Willing Workers Cemetery.

Active pallbearers are family and friends. Honorary pallbearers include Joe Alley, Donald R. Alley, Cedrick Alley and Thomas Booker.

Colorado County Citizen, June 10, 2008
Courtesy The Citizen

Alley, Tom Sr.

We, the family of the late Tom Alley Sr., would like to take this method of expressing our gratitude and thanks to our many friends for the wonderful way in which they showed their help and sympathy in the hour of our bereavement.

Thanks to our many friends for the covered dishes, cards, flowers and telegrams.

The Rev. Franklin for his consoling words, the Robinson funeral home for the splendid way in which the funeral was conducted and Rev. Lowe for use of his church, thanks.

Wife and Children

[Interred in Willing Workers Cemetery]

Colorado County Citizen, January 9, 1958, page 11
Transcribed by Dorothy Albrecht

Alley, Unknown

A little negro boy by the name of Alley, eight years old, was instantly killed by his little brother who is seven years of age on the Pinchback-Hester farm, near Columbus. Tuesday evening. They were alone at the time and found an old cap and ball gun with which they were playing. From reports it seems that they had been trying to fire it, but failing, they applied a lighted match which caused the gun to fire, blowing the older boys head almost entirely off. Accidents of this kind are almost daily occurrence and should very forcibly remind us that loaded guns within the reach of children should not be tolerated.--Colorado Citizen. [Place of interment unknown]

Weimar Mercury, May 15, 1914, page 3

Alley, Vastine

Negro Man Killed As Pickup Crashes into Bridge Rail

Vastine Alley, 34-Year-old Negro and father of 5 young children was killed near midnight last Thursday when his pickup crashed into a bridge bannister 2 miles north of Columbus on Highway 71.

Alley, a Columbus handy man who lived east of town, was dead when his body was discovered.

The impact in the center of the radiator drove the motor almost Into the cab and the steering to the top of the cab. Alley's body was hanging from the cab, but hits feet were pinned inside.

He becomes the county's, 4th traffic fatality, according to Patrolmen Leon Wilson and Dan Aultman.

They speculated that Alley probably tell asleep as he was returnIng to Columbus. Where he had been was not known. He was traveling alone.

Alley was buried after services Sunday afternoon In St. Paul Methodist church here. I. B. Kemp officiated and Robinson Funeral home was in charge of the. burial. [Interment was in Gay Hill Cemetery]

Alley's wife and 5 children and his parents, Andrew and Minnie Mae Alley survive.

Colorado County Citizen, September 16, 1954

Alley, W. C. “Dub”

W. C "Dub" Alley

W. C "Dub" Alley of Eagle Lake passed away at his home May 16, at the age of 89 years 11 months and 11 days.

Dub was born on June 5, 1918 in Navasota, Texas. He and Alma married in St. Paul's Episcopal Church in 1937. That same year he went to work for Texas Southeastern Gas Company. They and young daughter Doris Ann moved to Brenham, then Bellville and finally to Eagle Lake in December, 1945 as the Manager for the Gas Company. In 1959 he became the Public Works Director for the City of Eagle Lake. He left the city in 1977 to join the crew at Lakeside Irrigation and then retired from LCRA in 1983. Dub joined the Eagle Lake Masonic Lodge #366 AF & AM in 1953 (the same year daughter Jane Lu was born), later he was honored as Worshipful Master in 1983. He served on City Council from 1983-1985 and received Rotary Community Service Award in 1993. Dub enjoyed fishing in the river and his time barbequing at the river camp with his friends and family. He enjoyed traveling even as a young man but especially loved his three trips to Alaska. Dub's competitive nature and quick mind always gave him an edge during a good game of dominoes with friends and family. Dub is survived by daughters, Doris Laughlin and husband, Dick, of Columbus, Jane Alley Meldahl and husband, Dave, of Eagle Lake; sister, Lillian Oliver of Beaumont; grandchildren, Cheryl Laughlin, Bonnie Fournier and husband, Tony, Richard Laughlin II, Eric Meldahl and wife, Tamara, Mike Paschall, Brian Meldahl, Alysen Reid Bilson and husband, Ryon; great-grandchildren, Curtis Fournier, Taylor Brimage, Steven Fournier, Haylee Laughlin, Brett Brimage, Richard Laughlin III, Reagan Laughlin, Aryn Bilson, Colin Paschall and Carson Meldahl; great-great grandchild, Anissa Fournier; and nephew, Steven Oliver of Austin.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Emmett Marvin and Lucy Watkins Alley; and his wife; Alma Reid Cook Alley.

Pallbearers were Ryon Bilson, Earl Braden, Sr., Earl Braden, Jr., Fred "Butch" Broesche, Michael Duarte, Forest English, Ralph "Rooster" Gertson, Craig Guthman, David Guthman, Tommy Guthman, Steve Herman, Monte Hunter, Steven Meinecke, Walter Meitzen, Jr., Steven Oliver, Dewayne Pagel, Joe Lee Perez, Thurston Webb and Wayne Lipperdt.

Funeral services were held at 2 p.m., Sunday, May 18, at the Eagle Lake Funeral Home with Rev. Steve Whitfield officiating. Interment of his ashes will be at 8 p.m., Thursday June 5th (on what would have been his 90th birthday), at the Lakeside Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be given to: Christ Episcopal Church, P. O. Box 577, Eagle Lake, Texas 77434 or the charity of your choice.

Sympathy is extended to the family in their loss.

Eagle Lake Headlight, June 5, 2008, page 4
Submitted by John Konesheck

Alley, Wiley Wayne

Wylie W. Alley

Wylie W. Alley, age 69, of Alleyton, passed away in the early morning hours of Sunday, April 14, 1991 at his residence following a sudden illness. A native and life long resident of the Ramsey area, born on March 4, 1922 one of eight children born to Joseph Dan Alley and Della Parker Alley. He attended local schools on and May 9, 1943, he and Mary Laura Cook were united in marriage in Gonzales County. Thirteen children were born to this union. He spent his career in the “oil patch” working as a Motorman and was a member of the First Baptist Church of Eagle Lake.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Mary who passed away recently (Sept. 1, 1990); a daughter, Elizabeth Ann; twin sons, David and Daniel; sister, Edna Mae Nohavitz and brothers, Earl, John Ross and Felton Alley.

Survivors include six daughters and sons-in-law, Elnora Inez and Daniel Matura of Altair, Gladys Marie and Fred Owens of Eagle Lake, Jossie Earline and Milton Blount of Victoria, Billie Jean and Marcus Guthmann of Eagle Lake, Bonnie Pearl and Connie Merle Alley both of Columbus; 4 sons and daughters-in-law, John Wayne and Sharon Alley of Ramsey, Joe Thomas Alley of Ramsey, Gary Monroe and Rochelle Alley of Eagle Lake and Michael Ray and Tracey Alley of Eagle Lake; sisters, Mrs. Aileen Glick of Eagle Lake, Mrs. Dolly Jean Marsalia of Round Rock; brother, J.D. Alley of Houston; 22 grandchildren and four great grandchildren, nieces, nephews and other relatives and loved ones.

Funeral services were held Tuesday, April 16, 1991 from the First Baptist Church of Eagle Lake with Rev. David Mann officiating. Graveside services and interment followed at the Alley Family Cemetery near Alleyton.

Pallbearers scheduled were Alfred and Elton Matura, Bruce Cason, Larry Kocich, Johnny Baros, Ike and Leak Etheridge and David Rollins.

Mr. Alley, “Tadpole” as he was called in the oil field, will long be remembered for his dedication to his wife and children; his willingness to hard work as the oil patch demanded and his love of the outdoors. He will be missed by all.

Sympathy is extended to the family in their loss.

Eagle Lake Headlight, 18 Apr 1991, page 8
Contributed by Matt Cross

Alley, William

Administrator's Notice.

HAVING been appointed by the Honorable County Court of Colorado county, Texas, at its last August Term, 1869, Administrator of the estate of William Alley, deceased, all persons having claims against said estate will come forward and present them in accordance and within the time prescribed by law. All perons indebted to the estate will come forward and settle.

JOHN ROSENFIELD, Administrator
Of estate of Wm. Alley, dec'd.
Columbus, September 25, 1869.

[Burial place unknown]

Citizen, Dec 2, 1869, page 3
Contributed by Dorothy Albrecht

Alley, William W.

DEATH CLAIMS AGED PIONEER WIDELY KNOWN NATIVE TEXAS

Funeral services were held from the Mill Funeral Home Saturday afternoon at 2:30 o’clock for William W. Alley, one of the oldest and most highly respected citizens of Colorado County. The Rev. J. W. Griffin of the Methodist Church officiated at the last sad rites. With Miss Marion Wozencraft presiding at the instrument, Mrs. J. W. Brisbois rendered “Rock of Ages”. Members of the Masonic Lodge stood as guard of honor, served as casket attendants and conducted their impressive ritualistic service at the grave.

William Alley was very active in Masonry, having joined the local lodge here April 26, 1895, nearly a half century ago. He exemplified the teachings throughout his long and eventful life.

“Uncle Billy” as he was generally known and affectionately called was born at the family home located at the Atascosita crossing of the Colorado River on January 3, 1849, and he had just passed his ninety-fifth birthday anniversary. To live to such a ripe old age is surely living on borrowed time. He passed away distinguished as one of the oldest settlers of this county and was recognized as the oldest member of the Eagle Lake Masonic Lodge.

His parents were Abram and Nancy Millar Alley. Five brothers came to Texas as members of Stephens F. Austin’s first colony, referred to as the old “Three Hundred”, because Austin was given permission by the Mexican government to settle 300 families of immigrants in Texas. Abram was the youngest of the five brothers and the only one to marry and have a family. His wife, Nancy Millar, was the daughter of Dr. John Millar who came to Texas from Alabama in 1831. Abram and Nancy were married in 1835.

Uncle Billy, their son, lived his entire life of 95 years on the same land which was granted to his father by Mexico in 1824. His father passed away in 1862. Uncle Billy never married but lived at home with his mother until her death in 1893. Several years later he moved to the home of his nephew, W. J. Wright, where he continued to reside until the summons came to cone over and rest in the shade of the trees.

Uncle Bill was a quiet unassuming person but very industrious. He was the first person in this section of the country to raise fine pecans, which he grafted himself. He won prizes at the Dallas State Fair for a number of years on these pecans. His orchard and berry patch attracted wide attention and he continued to raise a splendid vegetable garden until he was ninety years old.

He came form an illustrious line of forebears. The eldest Alley brother, Rawson, came to Texas from Missouri with Stephens F. Austin in 1822. He was a surveyor and most land in Colorado County was originally surveyed by him. Field notes in his handwriting are to be seen in the State Land Office building in Austin. Rawson took a prominent part in local affairs and one office he held was that a member of the town council of San Felipe. He died in 1833 and is buried in the family cemetery about 3 miles from Alleyton. The other brothers John, Thomas, William and Abram came to Texas in 1823. John was killed by the Indians (shot with an arrow) while riding in a small boat on the river near Egypt. Thomas, a lieutenant in the militia, was drowned while fording the Brazos on a campaign against the Indians. William lived until 1869 but never married.

Abram, Uncle Billy’s father, was a member of the jury on the first court to be held in the Republic of Texas under the famous Court Oak in Columbus in 1837. He served the county as commissioner for several terms. He volunteered to fight the Mexicans in 1836 but was not at the Battle of San Jacinto because he was detailed by General Sam Houston to help the women and children flee the Mexicans. They were camped on the Trinity River and could hear the guns of the battle.

The State of Texas and the County of Colorado have said farewell to a picturesque figure of bygone days. One whose memory will be cherished not only by his immediate survivors but by legions of friends whose lives had touched his.

J. W. Wright of Eagle Lake with whom he made his home and Mrs. Green Davidson of Wharton are the closest surviving relatives, but there are many more nieces and nephews extending into the great, great, greats.

The new made mound in the Masonic cemetery was a wealth of beautiful flowers that bore mute testimony to the respect in which he was held. Casket bearers were Mose Thomas, S.O. Boothe, G.A. Seaholm, M.L. Anderson, C. W. Nispel, Edgar Baring, Ernest Seaholm and B. H. McElhinney.

Another pioneer settler of this section has closed a book of service, good fellowship and contribution to the growth of his section. He was known for his friendliness and even during the years when his health and old age prevented his getting about easily, he maintained a cheerful outlook and was always interested in current affairs. He passed away Friday morning, January 14. To the many grieved over his passing the Headlight extends abiding sympathy.

Eagle Lake Headlight, January 21, 1944
Submitted by Laura Ann Rau

Alley, Woody Lorenzo

Woody Lorenzo Alley

Woody Lorenzo Alley was born in Columbus to Andrew and Minnie Dillard Alley, Sr. on December 24, 1913.

He was united to marriage to the late Lillian Tiliman where they shared a home in Pasadena, California for many years.

He received his education in the Columbus Public School System. He served in the US Army for three years and nine months with duty in World War II and Europe as a supply officer and non commissioned officer, with various medals for service and conduct.

Woody graduated from Huston-Tillotson College in 1939. He attended technical school in Ohio and California.

He retired from Lockheed California Company, a division of Lockhead Aircraft Corporation in Burbank, California after 25 years.

Woody was the second of nine children.

He leaves two siblings, Willie Alley of Bremerton, Washington (Elsie) and Ruth Ward of Columbus; and a host of nieces, nephews, family and friends.

He was preceded by siblings, Andrew Jr., Iva Jewell, Irene, Vastene Weldon, Ruby and Elvin Sr.

Woody departed March 7 in Columbus Care Nursing Home.

Funeral services were held Tuesday, March 11 at 11 a.m. in St. Paul Methodist Church in Columbus with Rev. Eugene Thomas officiating. Interment followed at Gay Hill Cemetery in Columbus. Services entrusted to Ben Davis Funeral Home.

Pallbearers were Marvin Alley, Finest Axel, Billy Alley, Raymond Dillard, Larry Alley, Roger Olier, Robert Bryant, and Preston Willis.

Honorary pallbearers were Kenneth Alley, Benjamin Alley, Cecil Mooney, Elvin Alley, Jr., Andrew Johnson, Jason Alley, Darrell Alley, and Eddie Alley.

Sympathy is extended to the family in their loss.

Eagle Lake Headlight, March 20, 2008, page 4
Submitted by John Konesheck

If you find bad or missing links, please notify the county coordinator.

Return to Obituary Index

Return to Colorado County Home Page