The angels came for Alyce too soon at age 88, after a sudden, serious illness, just 85 days after the loss of her husband of 66 years. Born in Ozona, Crockett Co., Texas, to Willie Martin Odom, a Texas rancher and Sallie Virginia Jenkins, originally of New Market, VA, Alyce Ellen grew up on the family's ranch in Reagan Co., near Stiles. Originally educated by a governess on the ranch, she later attended the Stiles School and also schools in Big Lake and San Angelo, Jefferson High School in San Antonio, Ursuline in Galveston, and graduated from Ursuline Academy in San Antonio in 1945. In 1949, Alyce earned her B.S. in Home Economics from Incarnate Word College. She then married the love of her life, Dennis "Burk" Burkholder, June 18 that same year. After several years away in the Air Force, Alyce & Burk returned to San Antonio where they made their home. They brought Alyce's mother, "Mamaw", to join them in 1955, and she remained with their family for the next 25 years. Alyce's home economics degree certainly served her well-- in preparing nutritious meals for her large family and sewing countless children's costumes and special dresses for her daughters. After earning her real estate license and also becoming proficient in accounting, Alyce held several positions during her formal working career. Her most rewarding job was as the dedicated bookkeeper, Office Administrator, and Friday 'Margarita maker' for over 20 years at Ace Spring Service, a family business. Alyce's greatest legacy was her family, to which she was totally dedicated, and also something she learned from her mother-- to "accept things as they are and always try to look on the bright side". Her beautiful, positive spirit will be a lasting example to all who knew her and whose lives she touched. Predeceased by her husband, Dennis L. Burkholder, her parents, sister Willie V. Cassady and brother John William Odom, and granddaughter, Mary Katherine Burkholder, Alyce is survived by her ten children (and their spouses): Ginger, Jodey (Susan), Joraine Miller (Jay), James (Kathy), Melissa Wyatt (Mike), Nancy Williams (Dean), Billy (Margo), Robert (Sandra) and Richard (Heidi), all of San Antonio, Bexar Co. TX area, and Karen Schlegel (Lakeway, TX) in addition to her in-laws, nieces, nephews and other extended family. We are comforted knowing our dear Mother, 'Gramaw' of 35, Great-grandmother of 26 (with several more expected) and loving 'Aunt Alyce' has reunited with her beloved in Heaven. SERVICES A funeral Mass will be held at Our Lady of Grace Catholic Church, 223 E. Summit, Monday, March 21 at 10:00am to be followed by a celebration of Alyce's life. A private, graveside service will be held afterward at Holy Cross Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, please consider making contributions in Alyce's memory to @DonateLifeTexas.org or the charity of your choice.