Willie May Lutz

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Willie May Lutz, affectionately known as "Billie", who left this world peacefully on March 21, 2025, in Woodway, Texas. Born on June 17, 1927, in Oskar, Texas (now known as Oscar in Bell County), Willie May was a remarkable woman whose life was marked by love, laughter, and a dedication to her craft. She graced the world with her presence for almost a century, leaving a legacy of warmth and joy.

Willie May retired from her fulfilling career in hairdressing in 2011, at the age of 84. Her passion for beauty and hair was evident to all who had the pleasure of knowing her. She began her journey in this field after graduating from the Truman School of Beauty in 1960, where she honed her skills and developed her unique style. Those fortunate enough to sit in her chair were often treated to her witty humor and frank conversations; she had a knack for telling it like it was, a trait that endeared her to many.

Outside of her work, Willie May found immense joy in nurturing her flower beds and tending to her yard, creating vibrant snippets of beauty that reflected her own personality. Her home was a sanctuary filled with blooming flora and heartfelt memories, a true testament to her love of life.

Willie May is survived by her beloved children, Larry Shumake and his wife Linda, Dianne Byford, and Sandra Brown. She cherished her role as a grandmother to Brandon Shumake, Shelby Brown and his wife Kara, Chad Brown and his wife Leann, and Braylon Byford and his wife Chantal. The family circle continued to grow with the addition of great-grandchildren Parker, Westin, Trevor, Lanee, Campbell, Kyndal, Drayden, Sandrina, Isabelle, Jordan, and a great-great-grandchild, Nevaeh, each of whom adored her.

She will be profoundly missed by those who had the honor of knowing her, including her pallbearers: grandsons Shelby Brown, Chad Brown, Braylon Byford, Chad Peebles, and nephews Don Mraz and Dr. Shane Maxwell.

Willie May's departure is felt keenly by her family and friends, who will forever remember the kindness of her spirit. She was preceded in death by her parents, John and Millie Mikeska, and her siblings—Edwin Mikeska, Sr., Alice Mraz, Evelyn Robertson, Doris Maxwell; her sons-in-law, Barry Byford and David Brown.

Family and friends are invited to gather to honor and celebrate Willie May’s remarkable life. Visitation will be held on Sunday, March 23, 2025, at Grace Gardens Funeral Home & Crematorium in Woodway from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM. A Funeral Service will take place the following day, Monday, March 24, at 1:00 PM, with burial to follow at Oakwood Cemetery in Waco at 2:30 PM.

Willie May Lutz’s legacy will live on in the hearts of her family and friends, and she will be dearly missed but never forgotten.