Grace Gardens Funeral Home

06/15/2026

Grief can feel isolating — like the world moved on while you're still standing still. You're not alone in that feeling, and you're not behind. There's no timeline for healing. 🤍
Free grief resources available at www.gracegardensfh.com

📞 (254) 741-0404

06/14/2026

Judith Paulson

Judith Paulson, a devoted mother, grandmother, and longtime professional, passed away peacefully on June 13, 2026, in Waco, Texas, surrounded by her loving family. Born on February 4, 1960, in Queens, New York, Judith led a life marked by strength, compassion, and unwavering dedication to those she cherished.

A graduate of Midway High School in 1978, Judith furthered her education at Baylor University. She retired from SCA after over 3 decades of service, a testament to her commitment and work ethic. Throughout her career and personal life, Judith was known for being straightforward and opinionated, traits that were balanced by her big heart and deep capacity for care and involvement, especially in the lives of her child and grandchildren.

Judith took great joy in simple pleasures, including trips to the beach and listening to her favorite artist, Miranda Lambert. These moments of respite reflected a woman who embraced life fully and found happiness in the things she loved.

She is survived by her son, Alex Paulson, and his wife Allison; her siblings, Edward Young and Linda Malcolm; as well as her cherished grandchildren, Carson, Tommy, Koby, and Kai. Also mourning her loss are her nephew Matthew Gaskamp and Fallon Allison. She was preceded in death by her beloved parents, Edward and Mary Ann, and her sister, Joan Young.

Judith's legacy is one of heartfelt dedication and involvement, especially in the nurturing of her family’s future generations. Her presence will be deeply missed, but her spirit and influence remain profoundly felt by all who knew her.

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06/14/2026

Richard Edward Walton

Richard Edward Walton, age 85, of Hillsboro, Texas, passed away peacefully on June 14, 2026, in Woodway, Texas, after a courageous battle with cancer. A graveside service in his honor will be at 1:00pm, Thursday, June 18, 2026 at Rosemound Cemetery.

Richard was born on August 2, 1940, in Bastrop, Louisiana, to Woodrow Milton Walton and Mary Louise Walton. He spent many years working faithfully at Bastrop Feed and Seed, where he was known for his dedication, kindness, and strong work ethic. He remained there until his retirement in 2016.

Following retirement, Richard moved to Hillsboro, Texas, to be closer to his sons and grandchildren. He treasured the time spent with his family and found great joy in watching them grow. He was a loving father, grandfather, and great-grandfather whose quiet strength, wisdom, and gentle spirit touched everyone who knew him.

Richard was preceded in death by his parents, Woodrow Milton Walton and Mary Louise Walton; and by his brothers, James Cleveland Walton and Henry Milton Walton.

He is survived by his sons: Richard Walton of Louisiana; James Walton and wife, Cheri Walton, of Hewitt, Texas; and Scott Walton and wife, Gloria Walton, of Aquilla, Texas. He also leaves behind eight grandchildren and three great-grandchildren, all of whom were blessed by his love and guidance.

The family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Christopher Teague of Hillsboro, Providence Hospice, and the staff of Woodway Rehabilitation and Healthcare for the exceptional care, compassion, and support they provided to Daddy during his illness.

Richard will be remembered for his unwavering love for his family, his humble nature, and the example of perseverance and faith he set for those around him. Though he will be deeply missed, his memory will forever live on in the hearts of those who loved him.

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06/13/2026

Kimberly Nicole Brewer

Kimberly Nicole Brewer, a beloved mother, cherished daughter, sister, and friend, passed away peacefully on June 12, 2026, in Waco, Texas. Born on October 11, 1982, in Port Arthur, Texas, Kimberly’s life was marked by her vibrant spirit, boundless kindness, and unwavering strength.

Kimberly graduated from McNiel High School in Round Rock, Texas, and further pursued her passion by attending San Jacinto Junior College, where she earned her cosmetology license. Before dedicating herself fully to motherhood, she worked as a hairdresser, sharing her creativity and care with countless clients. Her true joy, however, came from being a stay-at-home mother, where she found her greatest purpose in raising her children.

Known to many as a free spirit and a wild child, Kimberly was a friend to all who knew her. Her humor, kindness, and strong sense of loyalty touched the lives of many, and she was always ready to listen without judgment. Dependable and loving, Kimberly was a steadfast helper to those in need, embodying compassion in every aspect of her life.

A cheerleader in high school, Kimberly remained a cheerleader at heart for the rest of her life. She was her family's biggest supporter and her friends' loudest champion. Whether celebrating a victory, offering encouragement, or simply making someone smile, she seemed to have a cheer or chant for every occasion. Her joyful spirit and unwavering belief in those she loved will be remembered by all who knew her.

Her deep love for her children and family was matched by her interests in gardening, working out, and shopping, all activities through which she expressed her vibrant energy. Kimberly fought a valiant battle with cancer for years, demonstrating incredible courage and resilience. She passed away surrounded by loved ones in the comfort of her home, a testament to the close bond she shared with her family and friends.

Kimberly is survived by her devoted mother, Susie Shockley, and her husband Jesse; her sister Missy Allen and her husband George; and her sister, Jessica Shockley. She also leaves behind her honorary sister, Bertha Puente; two beloved children, Dariana Brewer and Andrew "Drew" Brewer; as well as her niece Kaylie, nephew Tyler, and bonus mother Karen Tolbert. Her life was further enriched by numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins who grieve her loss alongside those who loved her deeply.

She was preceded in death by her father, Darrell Tolbert, and her husband, Andrew "Andy" Brewer, her grandparents, whose memories she carried with her always.

Kimberly Nicole Brewer’s legacy is one of love, kindness, strength, and enduring loyalty. She will be remembered fondly by all who knew her, as a bright light and a loving soul whose impact will resonate for years to come.

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06/13/2026

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📞 (254) 741-0404 | www.gracegardensfh.com

06/13/2026

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📞 (254) 741-0404 | www.gracegardensfh.com

06/12/2026

Michael Eric Elliott

Michael Eric Elliott, age 58, passed away unexpectedly on June 7, 2026, in Waco, Texas. Known for his engaging smile, quick sense of humor, and deeply kind and dependable nature, Mike leaves behind a legacy of faith, love, and family.

Mike was born on December 19, 1967, in Kansas City, Missouri, to Lynne and Jorge Elliott. The youngest of five boys, he grew up surrounded by family, graduating from China Spring High School before attending the University of Texas at Arlington, where he earned his Bachelor of Business Administration in Management. Following his graduation, Mike joined his brother, Mark and their parents, Lynne and Jerry Scofield in the family business, Express Personnel Services. After their parents retired, Mark and Mike took over the operation of the business for several years until they sold it in 2023 and it is now known as Express Employment Professionals.

Throughout his life, Mike’s greatest pleasures and joys were experienced outdoors and in the company of those he loved. As a young man, he cherished camping trips in Eagle Canyon with his brothers. That bond and his love of water continued into adulthood, leading to countless treasured memories spent on Lake Waco aboard his brother Steve’s houseboat. He loved rooting for the Kansas City Chiefs, riding his Harley and watching the sunset from the houseboat.

Above all his accomplishments, Mike was a wonderful father. His proudest moments and favorite times were those including his beloved sons, Mason and Jackson, who carry forward his gentle spirit and warmth.

Mike is survived by his sons, Mason and Jackson Elliott; his mother, Lynne Scofield; his brothers, Steve, Mark, and Brian Elliott; and his stepsister, Lenesa Frisch; as well as a large community of extended family and friends who will miss his steadfast presence and laughter. He was preceded in death by his brother, Brad Elliott; his father, Jorge Elliott; and his stepfather, Jerry Scofield.

A small private graveside service will be held for family and close friends at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, June 20, 2026, at Waco Memorial Park.In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Mike’s memory to The Salvation Army.

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06/11/2026

Kelli Selby

Kelli Selby, 46, of Hewitt, Texas, passed away peacefully on June 10, 2026, surrounded by the love of her family. A visitation in her honor will be from 5:00pm to 7:00pm, Tuesday, June 16, 2026 at Grace Gardens Funeral Home.

Born in Waco, Texas, Kelli was known for her fun-loving spirit, caring heart, and goofy sense of humor. Before life’s unexpected events altered her path, she lit up a room with her smile and was a friend to so many. Kelli accepted Christ as her Lord and Savior and was baptized at an early age.

At the age of 16, Kelli’s path was changed in ways no one could have ever imagined, but she continued to impact those around her in profound ways.

Through her life, she taught others lessons that cannot be learned from a book—compassion, patience, resilience, and the importance of finding joy and purpose within the life we are given.

Kelli had a special way of bringing out the very best in people. Those who cared for her were often changed by the experience, learning the true meaning of selfless love and human connection. Her life served as a reminder that a person’s value is never defined by their limitations, but by the love they give and inspire in others.

No one embodied that love more than her parents, Bob and Tricia Selby. For more than three decades, they devoted themselves wholeheartedly to Kelli’s care with unwavering faith, sacrifice, and dedication. Their commitment was extraordinary and beyond measure. As a family, we often marvel at the crown they will surely receive in Heaven for the countless acts of love, kindness, and devotion they poured into Kelli’s life each and every day.

Although Kelli faced challenges throughout much of her life, her family made every effort to include her in everyday moments and special occasions. Her nieces and nephew, Kinsley, Ryder, and Kainey, brought joyful chaos and laughter into her daily life and never failed to put a smile on her face.

Kelli’s impact reached far beyond what many could see. She was deeply loved and truly special to so many. Her legacy will live on through the compassion she inspired, the lives she touched, and the countless people who are better because they had the privilege of knowing her.

Kelli is survived by her loving parents, Bob and Tricia Selby; her sister, Shana Lisenbe, and brother-in-law, Charles Lisenbe; and her cherished nieces and nephew, Kinsley, Ryder, and Kainey.

Grandmother June Worthington. Uncle Eugene Worthington (Linda). Uncle Kenny Worthington (Marsha)and children Brian Worthington (Lauren), and Kate Patton (Stoney). Aunt Lana Kondrak (Tom) and children Chelsey Kuhn (Chris) and Brad Kondrak. Aunt Lynda Lowery (Tom) and daughters Carol Nemec (Mark) and Shonda Doubrava (Tyler). Uncle Gary Selby (Brenda) and daughter Chelsey Selby. Also, numerous extended cousins.

Kelli was preceded in death by grandparents Bill Worthington, Betty Kunkel and Sid Selby, and cousins Mark Selby and Mark Locke.

She also leaves behind extended family members, caregivers, and friends whose lives were touched by her courage, strength, and enduring spirit. A special thanks to Providence Hospital ICU doctors and nurses for caring and loving her and her family through many hospital stays.

Over the years, life naturally changed and many friendships drifted apart, but Kelli was never forgotten by those whose lives she touched. In honoring her memory, the family welcomes anyone who knew Kelli or her family at any stage of life to attend the visitation and pay their respects.

Kelli’s life was not defined by the limitations she endured but by the love she inspired, the lessons she taught, and the countless lives she influenced without ever speaking a word.

Her memory will live on in the hearts of those who loved her and in the compassion she inspired in others.

She will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

View Kelli Selby's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

06/10/2026

Michael Kazaoka

Michael Kazaoka, 63, passed away at home on Tuesday, June 2, 2026. A graveside service with military honors will be held at the Veterans Cemetery at Cumberland County, date pending.

Michael was born on March 21, 1963, in Elmer, New Jersey. He attended Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Aviation Business Administration.

A proud patriot, Michael served honorably in the United States Navy for over 20 years. His dedication to his country was a defining part of his life, and he carried the values of service, commitment, and integrity throughout his life.

Michael enjoyed fishing and watching football, especially cheering on the Philadelphia Eagles with his son, Cameron. More than anything, he was there for his children whenever they needed him. His daughter, Sierra, could always count on him for advice and help with her car troubles. He treasured the time he spent with his family and found great companionship in his beloved dog, Tucker.

He is survived by his wife, Cindy Kazaoka; his children, Sierra and Cameron; and his former wife, Christy (Hall) Kazaoka.

The family would like to extend their sincere gratitude to AMR of Waco and the Waco Police Department for their assistance, compassion, and support.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Humane Society of Central Texas.

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06/10/2026

Lisa Jeanette Speed

Lisa Jeanette Speed, 54, of Riesel, Texas, passed away on June 7, 2026, in Riesel. Lisa was born on April 18, 1972, in Fort Worth, Texas to Larry and Rita Speed. She grew up enjoying fishing with friends and horseback riding and attended school in Axtell, Texas through the ninth grade.

On November 22, 2019, Lisa married the love of her life, Neal Abernathy, in Groesbeck, Texas. She was a wonderful mother to three amazing sons and a devoted, loving wife to Neal. Her family was her entire world, and she treasured every moment with them.

Lisa worked as a nurse for fifteen years and truly enjoyed taking care of others. She enjoyed long walks on the beach, fishing with her family, swimming, horseback riding, and traveling with those she loved most. Lisa was also a barrel racer at local rodeos and loved being around animals. Whether she was outdoors, spending time with family, or helping others, she found joy in the simple things that made life special.

Lisa was a Christian woman who loved the Lord and found comfort in prayer. She loved praying for and with her family and was a source of encouragement for them.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Larry and Rita Speed.

Lisa is survived by her husband, Neal; her sons, William, Brady, and Michael; her stepson, Brandon; her daughter-in-law, Vanessa; and family and friends who will cherish her memory forever. Lisa will be remembered for her loving heart and her devotion to her family.

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