Ursula R. Applewhite

Ursula R. Applewhite, age 74, of Temple, Texas, passed away on Friday, May 30, 2025. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday, June 11, 2025, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Temple. Burial will follow at 2:00 p.m. the same day at Central Texas State Veterans Cemetery in Killeen.

Born on February 18, 1951, in Bad Orb, Germany, Ursula was the beloved daughter of the late Willi and Hedwig Gunther Ruthel. She was preceded in death by her parents and a brother, Tony.

Ursula met the love of her life, Michael Applewhite, while he was stationed in Germany with the U.S. Army. They married in 1977 and together began a life of service, travel, and deep-rooted faith. As an Army wife, Ursula served proudly and selflessly—volunteering with the Red Cross and supporting Catholic ministries in every community they called home.

Upon settling in Temple, she became a dedicated and cherished member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church, where she served for 25 years as an usher and active member of the Altar Society. Her faith was the foundation of her life. She attended Mass daily, often prayed the rosary while driving, and embodied the spirit of devotion and service in all she did.

Ursula is survived by her loving husband of 48 years, Michael Applewhite; her children, Joseph and Priya (Mickie); five nieces; two nephews; three grandchildren; and one great-grandchild.

She was known for her joyful love of pets, her fondness for German Christmas carols, her passion for music by Boston, and her enjoyment of chocolate and champagne. Above all, she was a woman of unwavering love—devoted to her family, faithful to her beliefs, and beloved by all who knew her.

Visitation will be held on Tuesday, June 10, 2025, from 6:00 to 7:00 p.m. at Scanio-Harper Funeral Home, followed by a rosary at 7:00 p.m.

Ursula’s life was a gift to her family, her community, and her Church. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered.