Roll Call Tribute

Charles Joseph Sebesta, Jr. 

September 16, 1940 - February 20, 2026 

Charles J. Sebesta, Jr., 85, of Caldwell, Texas, passed away peacefully February 20, 2026. Charles was born on September 16, 1940, in Bryan, Texas, and grew up in Snook, where he graduated from Snook High School in 1958. He went on to attend Texas A&M University, earning a Bachelor of Arts degree in History and Government, and later received his Juris Doctor in Law from Baylor University.

He was also a graduate of the U.S. Army War College. Charles served the people of Burleson County for over 29 years. First as County Judge and later as District Attorney. Throughout his distinguished career, he was never opposed in either a primary or general election, a testament to the respect and trust he earned within the community. In 1999, he was honored as Prosecutor of the Year by the State Bar of Texas. His career was marked by integrity, dedication, and a deep commitment to justice. He was heavily involved in Rotary including serving a term as president; he served on the Southwestern Theological Seminary Advisory Council; and retired as a Full Bird Colonel.

Above all, Charles was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, teacher, and friend. He was married for 55 years to the love of his life, Mary Jane McKenzie Sebesta, whom he adored.

He is preceded in death by his father, Charles J. Sebesta and mother Dolores Vance Sebesta. He is survived by his two sisters, Nancy and husband Lawrence Matus Jr. of Bryan and Marilyn Sebesta of Wharton; his children, daughter, Pamela Sebesta and son, David Sebesta and wife Nikki; and six grandchildren: Savannah Sebesta, Kimber Sebesta, McKenzie Sebesta, Scarlett Teetes, Tristen Teetes, and Charlee Sebesta.

Charles had a remarkable way with words and a gift for thoughtful counsel. His heart was devoted to his longtime church, First Baptist Church of Caldwell, as well as to his family. His legacy is one of integrity, service, faithfulness, and love. He leaves behind a family strengthened by his example and a community better because of his leadership. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

A visitation will be held at Strickland Funeral Home in Caldwell on Tuesday, February 24, 2026 from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. Burial will precede the funeral service on Wednesday, February 25, 2026 at 10:00 a.m. at Snook Cemetery. Funeral services will follow at 11:00 a.m. at First Baptist Church of Caldwell. In lieu of flowers, and in honor of his 50 years of service as a deacon, memorial donations may be made to First Baptist Church of Caldwell.