Mary Etta Kvapil

Mary Etta Bagwell Kvapil passed away on December 25, 2025, surrounded by her family. 

Mary Etta was born on May 4, 1942 to Raymond and Lois Bagwell. They lived in various places in Texas including McCamey, Wink, Monahans, and Ballinger. Mary Etta graduated from Ballinger High School, Class of 1960.Mary Etta married the love of her life, Alex Kvapil, on November 3, 1958. They had many adventures during their 67 years, visiting Alaska, many countries in Europe, and the Caribbean. They also enjoyed Thursday nights at the Acapulco, attending church, and just playing cards at home. 

Mary Etta was called to be a teacher and received her Bachelor's Degree in Education from McMurry College. She touched many children's and families' lives while employed at Ballinger Elementary School. She believed that all children were capable of learning and did everything she could to encourage them.Mary Etta had a variety of interests. She was very involved in the Texas Retired Teacher Association, serving on the legislative committee and working for retired teachers across the state. Over the years she had been involved with Ballinger Woman's Club, Ballinger Fire Department Ladies Auxiliary, Ballinger Hospital Auxiliary, Concho Valley Czech Heritage Society, St. Joseph's Altar Society, and loved her participation in the ACTS Retreat for over 12 years. She also greatly enjoyed spending time with friends, playing bunco and mahjong.

Mary Etta is survived by her husband of 67 years, Alex; children: Mona and Tim Barbee of Midlothian, Ken and Christy Kvapil of Ballinger, and Kristi and Donnie Bruton of Round Rock; grandchildren: Melanie Barnett, Justin and Alli Barbee, Connor Kvapil, Emelia Bruton, Abigail Bruton, and Sean Bruton; and great-grandchildren: Ella Barnett, Eli Barnett, and Kellin Barbee. 

She was preceded in death by her parents, Raymond and Lois Bagwell, and older brother, Benny Ray.

The family wishes to thank Dr. Hardwicke, the Ballinger Hospial staff and the ICU staff at Shannon Medical Center for their care and compassion, Also a special thank you to Connie Escobar for her help and friendship over the years.

Services will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to a favorite charity.