Bertha M. Pankonien Broyles

Bertha Martha Broyles, 79 years of age, passed away on May 26, 2010. Bertha was born in Otto, Texas in 1930 to Ed and Ella Pankonien. She grew up in a large family of 12 children that included brothers Edwin, Alfred, John ED, Robert Lee, Bennie, Louie, R.D., James, and sisters Ida, Ella Mae, and Helen, and lived and worked on a farm. She would help her family with common chores, tending to farm animals, farming, gardening, and household duties. Bertha met Alton Emmett Broyles in Houston; they married in 1949 and then shared 61 years of marriage. Together they raised 3 children – JoAnn, Allen, and Randy and enjoyed the company of their 12 grandchildren and 2 great grandchildren.

Bertha first worked with Frito-Lay and then worked with the Spring Branch School District as a cafeteria manager until she retired.

She was a strong family-oriented person and always put them first. She would help anyone at the drop of a hat and expect nothing in return. Bertha loved jewelry of all kinds and saved anything and everything in hopes to help someone in the future. She also enjoyed spending time with senior friends by going on gambling trips, dances, and bingo functions.

Bertha was at her best by being a Mom to all her children, grandchildren and great grandchildren. We will all sincerely remember her for being the one to step up and be there at times of need as a beloved wife, mother and grandmother.