News Summary
Agnes Virginia Catchings Stolte, a well-loved member of the Thorndale community, passed away at the age of 90. Known for her vibrant personality and community spirit, she was a devoted mother, entrepreneur, and church member, leaving behind a rich legacy among her family and friends.
Thorndale – Agnes Virginia Catchings Stolte, a beloved member of the Thorndale community, passed away on May 12, 2025, at the age of 90. A memorial service was conducted on May 19 at the Phillips & Luckey Funeral Home in Rockdale, Texas, officiated by Pastor Elaine Alexander. Burial followed at Pleasant Retreat Cemetery in Thorndale.
Born on September 12, 1934, Virginia was the eldest of three daughters to Roy Robert and Agnes (Beran) Catchings. Her upbringing on a family farm during the Great Depression instilled in her the values of family prioritization, a strong faith in The Lord, and a robust work ethic.
Virginia graduated from Thorndale High School in 1952 and was known for her vibrant personality and strong community spirit. She played an active role in the lives of her family and friends, often bringing joy through her homemade bread, chowchow, and artistic abilities in ceramics and sewing. Virginia was a dedicated member of the Pleasant Retreat Methodist Church, where she contributed her culinary talents by preparing chili for the church’s chili supper alongside her mother and Uncle Pete for many years.
She married Preston Fritz Stolte on August 22, 1952, and together they welcomed two children: Theresia and Steven, whom Virginia regarded as her greatest accomplishments. In addition to her roles as a devoted mother and community member, Virginia was an entrepreneur. She managed businesses including a refinishing and upholstery furniture shop and a ceramic shop, alongside her work as a quality control inspector for American Desk, where she believed that walking around the plant aided in her longevity.
Virginia’s legacy continues through her family. She is survived by her daughter, Theresia Goetz (David) of Thorndale; her daughter-in-law, Deborah Stolte of Thorndale; and seven grandchildren: Brittany (Dave) Lerbakken of Kearney, NE; Steven Preston Stolte II of San Antonio; Henry Stolte of Thorndale; Andrew Stolte of Oxford, MS; Cara (Vincent) Thomas of Rockdale; and Matthew Goetz of Thorndale. She also leaves behind two sisters, Shirley (Charles) McCoy of Thorndale and Ruth (Ray) Barron of Taylor, as well as three great-grandchildren: Daniel Goetz Silva of Ventura, CA; Brooke Lerbakken of Kearney, NE; and Josie Lerbakken of Kearney, NE.
Virginia was preceded in death by her husband, Preston Stolte; her beloved son, Steven Preston Stolte; and her parents, Roy and Agnes Catchings.
The family expressed their gratitude to Gelinda Fincher of Thorndale for her support and care during Virginia’s later years. They also thanked the Gentiva Hospice personnel, Annette and Michele, for their compassionate assistance.
Pallbearers for Virginia’s service included Matthew Goetz, Cara Goetz Thomas, Vincent Thomas, Brittany Lerbakken, Preston Stolte, Hank Stolte, and Andrew Stolte.
Memorial contributions in her honor may be sent to Pleasant Retreat Methodist Church, P.O. Box 207, Thorndale, TX 76577.
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Additional Resources
- The Rockdale Reporter: Agnes Virginia Catchings Stolte Obituary
- Wikipedia: Obituary
- The Rockdale Reporter: Virginia Catchings Stolte Memorial Service
- Google Search: Thorndale TX
- The Rockdale Reporter: Pleasant Retreat Methodist Church
- Google Scholar: Community Service
- The Rockdale Reporter: Thorndale Community News
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Community
- The Rockdale Reporter: Remembering Virginia
- Google News: Community Support
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