Gardina Helen Vavra Belcher, 93, of Bay City died April 10, 2006. She was born November 4, 1912 in Caldwell, Texas to Frank John and Johanna Popek Vavra. She retired as dispatcher for Hughes Aircraft in California; had been a resident of Matagorda County since 1978; and was a member of Holy Cross Catholic Church and Holy Cross Altar Society.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Douglas Ted Belcher in 1997 and three brothers Eddie, Franklin and Milton Vavra. Survivors include two sisters Betty Blackwell of Bay City and Alma McKissick of Palacios and a number of nieces and nephews.

A rosary will be recited 7:00 PM Tuesday at Taylor Bros. Funeral Home. Funeral Mass is 2:00 PM Wednesday, April 12, 2006 at Holy Cross Catholic Church with Rev. Casey Jarzombek officiating. Interment will follow at St. Peter's Catholic Cemetery in Blessing. Pallbearers will be Craig Glasscock, Edward Vavra, Luther Blackwell, Kenneth McKissick, Alton Vavra, and Lacy Lowry.

The family would like to thank the staff at The Legacy for all their love, care, and support that was given to Gardina. On line condolences may be sent by visiting www.taylorbros.net. Arrangements with Taylor Bros. Funeral Home in Bay City. 979-245-4613.