The Albany FFA Chapter brought home several honors from the 97th Annual Texas FFA Convention, held June 30–July 4 in Fort Worth.

FFA sponsor Chris Beard, who attended the convention with the local group, said the trip was a chance to both celebrate student success and build momentum for the year ahead.

“We were proud of what our kids accomplished this year,” Beard said. “It’s great to see their hard work recognized at the state level.”

Jon Matthew Birkla, 68, passed away July 1, 2025. 

Memorial service will be 10am Friday, July 11, 2025 at the Albany Cemetery Pavilion. 

Jon (Matt) Matthew Birkla ,68, passed away in Abilene, TX on July 1, 2025.

Matt was born January 9, 1957 in Mt. Carmel, Illinois to Calvin George Birkla and Ola (Pat) Creciann Birkla.  Matt’s family moved around and settle in Pecos, Tx. Matt attended Pecos schools.

Michael “Mike” Gerald Folsom,  of Albany, Texas, passed away on June 24, 2025, at the age of 60. Born on June 22, 1965, he was a devoted father, Boppy and friend whose generosity and skills enriched the lives of many.

He is survived by his two daughters, Katelyn Blanton and her fiancé JonMichael Blake, and Michaela Bradford and her husband Troy Bradford. He was a proud Boppy to Braxton Blanton, Presley Blanton, Skylar Blanton, Silas Bradford, and Wesley Bradford. He will also be missed by a circle of close friends who stood by him throughout his life.

Jim Tom Butler, 87 of Albany, Texas and formerly of Crane, Texas passed away Thursday June 26, 2025. A Memorial service was at 1:00 P.M, July 1, 2025, at Albany Methodist Church in Albany, Texas with Pastor Tim Trimble officiating.

Jim Tom Butler was born on September 13, 1937, in Albany, Texas, Shackelford County to Hattie E. Butler and Leroy A. (Buddy) Butler. He had one brother, Billy Irl Butler.