Martha Jean Choate

Martha Jean Lisby Choate, 86, of San Angelo, died peacefully at her home December 13, 2018. A graveside service will be held at Lawnhaven Memorial Gardens, Monday December 17, 2018 at 2:00pm. Martha Jean Lisby Choate was born November 1, 1932 on a farm in Wise County, Texas, to Neal and Thelma Lisby. She is survived by her son Vic, his wife Cathy and their children Dr. Bevan Taylor Choate and his wife Dr. Hannah Choate, Courtney Nagel and her husband Eric Nagel, their son Rewk and daughter Sidney, her son Guy, his wife Eva and their children Michael and his wife Natalie and their daughter Violet, and Anne Marie and her husband Dillon Jones and their children Gus and Evelyn. Martha grew up in a family of ten children. They were known for their hard work and devotion to family. Martha married Wade Choate shortly after World War II and they proceeded to raise a family. In 1960, while Wade was managing Texas Livestock Marketing Company and Martha ran the mail order business for the Windy Ryon Western Store, they decided to move to San Angelo and start a new life in partners with John Cargile and family. The move was difficult for Martha, but she soon grew to love San Angelo and became active in many events in the city. Martha was an excellent bowler and won numerous trophies and awards both individually and as a team member with many friends. She was also an avid bridge player and kept sharp, never slowing in her play or bidding as she got older. Long time members of the Hoolihan, Martha and Wade kept a place at Hoolihan Acres for many years and enjoyed the company of many members as well as the thousands who attended the annual party. Martha and Wade, together with Bill Shaw, Clifton and Bonnie Reed, hosted the First Annual Boy's Ranch Dance. Friends and strangers soon to become friends were always welcome at the Choate home and Martha could throw together a terrific meal with ten minutes notice. Many tired ranchers, cowboys, cow traders and students were more than appreciative for the great food and company at her table. The Choate home was a haven for travelers as far away as Australia. Her friends through the years are too numerous to mention but those living and dead knew who they were. Martha had a talent for entertaining and making people feel welcome in her home or at the Hoolihan or at the ranch. Martha loved her grandchildren and great grandchildren and each of them loved their “Mimi”. She cared for them and made them mind their manners. Each one will tell you they are better people for the way she kept them lined out. Martha’s sisters Sue Dodgen and Beverly Lindsey have been with her through her last days and the family will never be able to adequately express our thanks and appreciation for their comfort and support. Honorary pallbearers are Skipper Duncan, John Conn, Tommy Bynum, Bobby Frank, Castulo Rodriguez, Glenda Boles and Bevan Doyle. The family expresses their gratitude to Judy Farmer, Dona Ivy, Jan Terrill, Carol Eakman, Rebecca Pardo, Dr. John Harvey and Dr. Luis Duarte, Kindred Hospice and Visiting Angels. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials to the West Texas Boys Ranch, Meals for the Elderly, Kindred Hospice or a favorite charity.