Jose C. Martinez, 77, died Wednesday, Aug. 5, 2026 at his home in Liberal.

As the first son of the Martinez Calderon family to cross the border into the U.S., he created opportunities for his parents, brothers, and sisters.

He was a devoted husband to his wife, Irene.

He was a loving father who cherished his three daughters and took great pride in his son, who stood beside him in work and in life. His grandchildren were a light of his life.

ULYSSES – Clara Betterton, 98, died Saturday, Aug. 1, 2026, in Wichita. 

She was born Feb. 20, 1928 to Harry and Pearl (Miller) Johnson.

She married Harold Lloyd Betterton in 1948. He preceded her in death.

Natividad “Nati” Ovalle Camacho, 19, died on Saturday, Aug. 1, 2026, in Dodge City.

He was born June 28, 2007 in Bakersfield, Calif. to Gabriel Ovalle Tellez and Laura Camacho Barrios. 

Nati was a 2026 graduate of Liberal High School, where he was known for his dedication and involvement in athletics. He enjoyed participating in football, basketball, and soccer for Liberal High School and also shared his love of the game as a member of Atletico Liberal Youth Futbol Club.

Joe Thomas Holcomb, 69, died Tuesday, July 28, 2026, in Amarillo, Texas. 

He was born Nov. 14, 1956 to Joe Holcomb and Selia (Luinstra) Crawford.

He married Linda Lou (Clifft) Holcomb Aug. 1, 1981. She survives.