Ima Jean Felkner

Ima Jean Felkner, 91, of Austin, Texas, passed away on December 22, 2023. She was born on November 1, 1932, in Holdenville, Oklahoma to John Edward and Leona (Passmore) White. Ima was a devoted wife, mother, and friend to those fortunate enough to have known her.

Ima was a self-taught seamstress, and her talent was well-known in the community. She lovingly made clothes for many people and there wasn't anything she couldn't create. She worked as a seamstress at various establishments in Corpus Christi, including Lichtenstein's Department Store, Frost Brothers, and the upscale dress shop called the Apropos.

A longtime member of the First Methodist Church of Taft, Texas, Ima also served as a Sunday School teacher for several years. She found joy in volunteering at the Methodist Resale Shop for over 30 years. Additionally, Ima was a Brownie Scout leader and a member of the Eastern Stars.

Ima's kindness and generosity extended beyond her family and friends. She was known for never saying an unkind word about anyone. Hosting Thanksgiving and Christmas dinners at her house brought her great joy and her family cherished these special times together. Her banana pudding was legendary!  

Ima had a deep love for her grandchildren, Darla and Robbie, and her great-grandson Gunner brought her immeasurable joy.

In her free time, Ima enjoyed listening to music and had a soft spot for butterflies, hummingbirds, and baby animals. Her favorite cartoon character was Mickey Mouse. One of her favorite places to go was the family cabin in the Hill country. She was a woman of many talents and passions.

Ima is survived by her loving daughter, Barbara Fife (Scott Hilton), sons Andy Felkner (Glenda) and John Felkner (Wanda), and brother Jerry White, her grandchildren, Darla Klutts (Todd), Robbie Fife (Anna) and great-grandson, Gunner Jude Fife. Several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husband Sam Felkner, Jr., parents, John and Leona White, her sisters Geraldine, Betty, and Flora Lou.

A funeral service will be held at Winsteads’ Funeral Home in Portland, Texas on Saturday, January 6, 2024, at 2:00 pm. Visitation will be from 12:00- 1:30 before the service. Interment will follow at The Palms Memorial Gardens.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that contributions be made to the Alzheimer’s Association, American Cancer Society, or a favorite charitable organization.

Ima Jean Felkner will be dearly missed by all who knew and loved her. Her legacy of kindness and creativity will continue to inspire those who were fortunate enough to have been touched by her presence.

We would like to express our gratitude to SoCo Village for the loving care she was given while living there. We appreciate Harrell Funeral Home of Austin and Winsteads’ Funeral Home for their care and guidance during this very difficult time.

Arrangements are under the direction and personal care of the professionals at Winsteads' Funeral Home. (361) 643-6564 www.winsteadsfuneralhome.com