Brauner

Barbara Elizabeth Brauner (née Dybala), aged 84, passed away peacefully on Aug. 8, 2024, in El Campo. Born on Aug. 22, 1939, in Ganado, Barbara dedicated her life to her family, faith, and community.

A devoted wife to the late Frank Brauner, Jr. for 56 years, Barbara’s life was a testament to love and partnership. She was a loving mother to Carol Smolik (husband Wesley), Frank Brauner III (wifeAngie), Mark Brauner (wife Sierra), and Dianne Carnley (husband Al). Barbara’s joy was multiplied by her grandchildren, Joe Brauner (wife Vivian), Allison Moses (fiancée Steven), Wes Smolik (wife Cassidy), Hannah Carnley, and Grace Carnley, who will miss her deeply. In addition, she leaves behind six great grandchildren. She also leaves behind her beloved brothers Dan, Tony, Bob, David, and Tim Dybala, along with their families.

Barbara was a revered second- grade teacher at Hermes Elementary, where she nurtured young minds with passion and care for many years. She held a Bachelor of Arts degree from Southwest Texas State University and applied her education to make a significant impact in the lives of her students.

Barbara’s commitment to service was evident through her longstanding active involvement and leadership with the VFW Auxiliary to Post 5254, Catholic Daughters of America Court Annunciation #1962, KJZT Society #31, and her many years of service at her parish Sacred Heart Catholic Church as a religious education teacher, choir member, lector, Altar Society member, and extraordinary minister of the Eucharist for the parish and homebound. Her hobbies included watching the Houston Astros, sewing, solving crossword puzzles, and playing bridge, which she pursued with enthusiasm. With friends or family, she enjoyed going out to dinner, including a tasty glass of wine or a sparkling Pom-Prosecco!

Her deep Catholic faith was central to her life, often reflected in her volunteer work and the way she lived every day. Barbara’s family and friends will forever remember her million-dollar smile, unwavering positive attitude, and profound faith in God.

Barbara was preceded in death by her husband, Frank Brauner, Jr.; her parents, Sophie and Edmund Dybala; her infant son, Matthew Brauner; Anne Dybala, and numerous aunts and uncles.

Visitation was held Tuesday, Aug. 13, 2024, 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Family received friends from 5-7 p.m. and Rosary immediately followed at Koenig-Belvill Funeral Home in La Grange.

Funeral Services: Wednesday, August 14, 10:00 a.m. at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, La Grange, TX.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Barbara’s name to the following organizations, honoring her legacy of generosity and service: Catholic Charities, VFW Post 5254, Catholic Daughters of Americas: Court Annunciation #1962-Barbara Brauner Memorial Scholarship, and Houston Hospice.

Family and friends can view and sign the guestbook online at www.lagrangefunerals. com.

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Koenig-Belvill Funeral Home & Cremations in La Grange.