Tributes

Colleen Cody August 30, 1928 – April 12, 2025 Colleen Cody, a lifelong Texan and devoted public servant, passed away peacefully on April 12, 2025, at the age of 96. Born in Abilene, Texas, on August 30, 1928, to Ezekiel and Christine King, Colleen was one of three children. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Bill Cody; her ex-husband and father of her children, James Walters; and her two brothers, Horace King and Weldon King. Colleen and James remained close throughout their lives, and in true Colleen fashion, she’ll be laid to rest right between Bill and James—proof that she always found a way to keep things interesting and stay in the center of the story. Colleen spent over three decades deeply involved in Bexar County politics. She served as the State Democratic Executive Committee Chairwoman for District 26, worked with the Commissioners Court alongside Tom Stolhandske, and served as assistant to Sheriff Harlan Copeland. Though her early political years were spent as a dedicated Democrat, Colleen proudly became an avid Republican during the Reagan years—and if she were reading this now, she’d want to make sure everyone knew it. In retirement, Colleen and Bill explored the country together in their RV, living out her dream of seeing the United States one road at a time. She is survived by her children, Jeff Walters (wife Kathy) and Debbie Currie (husband Tony); her grandchildren, Joanna Pangilinan (husband Jimmy), Amy Verdecanna (husband Bryan “Mo”), Jacob DeLeon (wife Megan), Ryan Hale, and Jenna Sowell (husband Jay); her great-grandchildren, Riley Pangilinan, Holden Verdecanna, Jude Pangilinan, Brody Verdecanna, Bryson DeLeon, Hunter DeLeon, Henley DeLeon, and Jay James Sowell; and her step-granddaughters, Michelle Kincaid, Cecilia Nickles, and Sara Currie. The family extends a special thanks to Karla Perez, Colleen’s devoted caregiver, whose kindness, humor, and compassion brought comfort and joy during Colleen’s final chapter. Colleen was a woman of strong convictions and even stronger love for her family. She adored classic Westerns—especially John Wayne—and found comfort in the music of Ray Price. “For the Good Times” was her favorite song, and anyone who knew her would agree—she made the most of the good times, and helped create them for everyone around her. Her legacy is one of service, grit, humor, and heart. She will be deeply missed and joyfully remembered by all who had the honor of knowing her.

Tributes

Colleen Cody

August 30, 1928 - April 12, 2025