Dorothy Kucera

Dorothy Marie Kucera, age 84, of West, Texas, passed away peacefully in the early morning hours of Thursday, July 17, 2025, at West Rest Haven.

A Rosary will be recited at 2:00 p.m. on Sunday, July 27, at Aderhold Funeral Home Chapel in West, followed by visitation until 4:00 p.m. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10:00 a.m. on Monday, July 28, at St. Mary's Catholic Church of the Assumption in West. Burial will follow at St. Mary's Cemetery.

Born on June 20, 1941, Dorothy was the daughter of the late Arnold and Irene Kotrla. A proud 1958 graduate of West High School, Dorothy dedicated her life to her family, faith, and community. As a devoted homemaker, she lovingly raised five children alongside her husband, Jerry Kucera Sr., with whom she shared 59 years of marriage.

Dorothy's passion for music and service was evident throughout her life. She began playing the piano/organ for St. Mary's Church at the age of 12, a ministry she continued for over 72 years. Her unwavering commitment was recognized with the Lumen Gentium Award from the Diocese of Texas upon reaching 50 years of service, and again by her parish family at her 70-year milestone. She was always available to play for weddings, funerals, and Sunday Mass, sharing her God-given talents with grace and humility. Dorothy also taught piano lessons which impacted the lives of many youth in West and the surrounding communities in their quest to embrace music. 

In addition to her musical contributions, Dorothy was well known throughout West and surrounding communities as the local Avon representative, a role she cherished for 42 years. In 2014, she was honored with the Spirit of Avon Award for her dedication and service. She also continued her family's legacy by assisting with cemetery arrangements for St. Mary's Church, a responsibility that was passed down from her parents.

Dorothy found joy in helping others, whether through her Avon sales, church service, or community involvement especially with the cemetery. She cherished her friendships deeply, especially her bond with Jake Sulak who worked with her at the cemetery. She often referred to him as her son as he was a helper to her like her son Jerry Jr. 

A woman of many interests, Dorothy enjoyed gardening, cooking, canning, playing 42 dominos and taroky, and watching sports-especially cheering for the Dallas Cowboys, Baylor Bears, and West Trojans. She also loved spending time with her family, particularly her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, and treasured the memories made during family gatherings. A highlight of her life was meeting Paula Deen following the 2013 West Explosion, where they shared stories of homemaking and cooking.

Dorothy was preceded in death by her beloved husband Jerry Kucera Sr., her parents Arnold and Irene Kotrla, and her son Jerry Kucera Jr.

She is survived by her children: Monica Ferguson and husband Dan of Waco; Paul Kucera and wife Loretta of West; Steven Kucera and wife Stephanie of Aquilla; and Angela Thompson and husband Tony of North Richland Hills. She is also survived by numerous grandchildren: Holly Liles, Matt Ferguson, Kaylea Eaker and husband Josh, Kami Kucera, Amy Kucera, Ashley Kucera, Za'Rya Kucera, Aleyha Kucera, Jamie Heffner and husband Chase,  Justin Cvikel and wife Hailey, Brandi Lewis and husband Ryan, Allen Cvikel, Jackson Kucera and wife Katie, Nicholas Kucera and wife Reagan, Tina Ishmael and husband Evan and Trey Thompson; Great-grandchildren: Lauren Liles, John Luke Liles,  Alona McCormick Heffner, Blair Eaker, Dalton Cvikel, Tyler Gilchrest, Samantha Lewis, Jessie Lewis, Benjamin Kucera, Thomas Kucera, Read Kucera, Dainton Ishmael and Aaron Ishmael. 

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the staff of West Rest Haven, West EMS-especially Tom Marek-and Dr. Robert Joseph Go for their compassionate care.

Pallbearers will be Jake Sulak, Randy Sulak, Tommy Webre, Tommy Petter, Bryce Gerik, Richard Kaska, Larry Sykora, and Richard Polansky.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Mary's Cemetery Association.

Aderhold Funeral Home in West is entrusted with arrangements.