Jacqueline (Jackie) Garza

With heavy hearts the family of Jacqueline (Jackie) Garza announces the passing of their wife, mother, and grandmother on June 19, 2017. She was dearly loved by all who knew her. Jackie was born in Ellinger to Lambert and Ellen Kubena on Nov. 9, 1935. Always an avid student she graduated top 10 percent of her class from La Grange High School and continued on to obtain her Bachelors and Masters degrees. On June 18, 1955 Jackie married the love of her life, Walter Garza. For 36 years, Jackie devoted her time and talents to teaching in Texas and California. She enriched the lives of her students as a teacher, administrator, and Director of Curriculum. Upon retirement, Jackie and Walt returned to Austin. Never one to be bored or idle, Jackie spent her time and skills working with many community groups. As a member of Onion Creek Country Club she spent many hours on the golf course and at the bridge table. She belonged to Bethany Lutheran Church for over 25 years and volunteered with various groups including Stephen Ministry & Gift Bible Study; the highlight of the Christmas season was her wonderfully and beautifully decorated themed Christmas trees. Jackie is preceded in death by her parents. She is survived by her loving and devoted husband of 62 years Walter; two daughters, Shelley O’Neil of Kyle and Carole Wolf and husband Keith of Acworth, Ga.; five grandchildren, Gregory Wolf and wife Courtney of Chelsea, Ala., Christine Wolf of Atlanta, Ga., Catherine O’Neil of Austin, Andrew O’Neil and Patrick O’Neil of Kyle; and brother, Tom Kubena of Ellinger. The family received friends from 5 to 7 p.m. on Wednesday, June 21, 2017, at Harrell Funeral Home, 4435 Frontier Trail, in Austin. A funeral service was held at 10 a.m. on Thursday, June 22, 2017 at Bethany Lutheran Church, 3701 W. Slaughter Ln. in Austin. Interment to follow at La Grange City Cemetery in La Grange. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Bethany Lutheran Church. Condolences may be sent to: www.harrellfuneralhomes.com. Harrell Funeral Homes in Austin was in charge of arrangements.