Nola Mae Jurek

It is with profound sadness and deep love that we announce the passing of Nola Mae Jurek, a beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister-in-law, and friend. Nola passed away peacefully on June 4, 2026, surrounded by her family, at the Scot and White Hospital in Temple, Texas. She was 83 years old. Nola was born on September 25, 1942, in Gonzalez, Texas, to her cherished mother, Bertha Stapp. Her early years were filled with the warmth and simplicity of small-town life, where she nurtured a love for family and the beauty of nature, particularly her fondness for red birds, especially cardinals, which she lovingly collected throughout her life. Nola married the love of her life, Clifton Glen "Tommy" Jurek, and together they created a home filled with love and laughter. Their union was blessed with children and a host of grandchildren and great-grandchildren, each of whom she adored with all her heart. Being a wife, mother, and grandmother were not just roles she played but her greatest joys and proudest achievements. Her nurturing spirit and boundless love left an indelible mark on all who knew her. She is predeceased by her beloved mother, Bertha Stapp, her brother, Jimmy Stapp, her devoted husband, Clifton "Tommy" Jurek, and her son, William Glen Jurek. Her legacy of love and kindness is carried forward by her surviving family: her daughter Barbara Ledger and son-in-law Ricky Ging of Granger, Texas; her son Jimmy Jurek of Gatesville, Texas; her sister-in-laws Carole Henderson and her husband Charles Henderson of Evant, Texas, and Maryanne Jurek of Gatesville, Texas. She is also survived by her cherished granddaughters, Jennifer Jurek and Leslie Brinkley of Gatesville, Texas, and Shelby Steele and her husband Casey Steele of Henderson, Texas. Her great-grandchildren, Tryston Lane Brinkley, Adria "Alex" Curry of Gatesville, Texas, Krystal Hunt and her husband Harleigh Hunt of Fort Drum, New York, Lainie Ingram of Gatesville, Texas, and Lydia Taylor of Henderson, Texas, were the light of her life. Nola's home was always open, her heart always welcoming, and her presence always comforting. She raised and nourished many, leaving a permanent mark on anyone fortunate enough to be cared for by her. Her life was a testament to love, resilience, and the power of family. A private ceremony will be held at the Central Texas Veterans Cemetery in Killeen, Texas. The family wishes to extend their heartfelt thanks to all who have expressed condolences and offered prayers during this emotional time. Your support is deeply appreciated as they honor the life of their beloved Nola. In the silence of the gentle Texas breeze, we will forever hear her laughter, feel her warmth, and see the vibrant red of her favorite cardinals, reminding us of her unending love and the beauty she brought into our lives.