Obituaries, August 4, 2023
Lenora J. Hiatt
Lenora J. Hiatt, 92, of Greentown, passed away at 9:30 am on Wednesday, August 2, 2023, at Ascensions St. Vincent- Kokomo. She was born on January 14, 1931, the daughter of Willis and Ethel (Wilson) Harvey. On August 27, 1950, she married Robert L. Hiatt, and he preceded her in death on November 18, 1997.
Lenora enjoyed painting, sewing, crafting and listening to Gaither music. She liked going to church and to church functions. She loved all animals, especially dogs, and taking care of her family and spending time with them.
Lenora is survived by her son, Michael Hiatt; son in law, Danny Cooper, grandchildren, Holly (Beau) Woodrum, Joel Cooper, Jessica Robbins, Andrea Cooper, and April Brown; 9 great grandchildren, 2 great great grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, daughter, Sandy Cooper, and siblings, Louise Coy, Charles Harvey, Virgil Harvey, and Mary Jane Johnson.
A funeral service will be held at 11:00 am on Saturday, August 5, 2023, at Hasler & Stout Funeral Home, 112 East Main Street, Greentown, with Pastor Donald Willis officiating. Burial will follow in Greenlawn Cemetery. Friends are invited to visit with the family from 9:00 am until the time of service, on Saturday, August 5, 2023, at the funeral home. Memorial contributions may be made to the Christian Broadcasting Network 700 Club, https://securegiving.cbn.com. Messages of condolence may be left online at www.haslerandstout.com.
Alice F. Ramirez
Alice F. Ramirez, age 78, of Kokomo, Indiana passed away on Wednesday, August 2, 2023.
A time of visitation for Alice will be held Saturday, August 5, 2023, from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM at Sunset Memory Garden Funeral Home & Cemetery, 2097 West Alto Road, Kokomo, Indiana 46902. A funeral service will occur Saturday, August 5, 2023, at 1:00 PM, 2097 West Alto Road, Kokomo, Indiana 46902. An entombment will occur Saturday, August 5, 2023, at 2:00 PM, 2097 West Alto Road, Kokomo, Indiana 46902.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.SunsetmemoryGarden.com for the Ramirez family.
Lowell E. Evans Sr.
Lowell E. Evans Sr., 75, Russiaville, passed away at 8:27 pm on Monday, July 31, 2023, at St. Vincent Hospital in Indianapolis with his family by his side. He was born on November 12, 1947, to the late Lawrence and Dollie (Rosa) Evans. Lowell grew up in Kokomo, Indiana. He often reminisced about the paper route he ran for the Kokomo Tribune as a boy and loved sharing memories of his baseball years as a very talented left fielder.
In 1966, Lowell graduated from Kokomo High School and went on to work for Continental Steel where he retired after 17 years of service. On April 1, 1983, He married his beautiful wife Dianna Jarvis at their home in Russiaville and she survives. He was a member of St. Patrick Catholic Church. In addition to baseball, Lowell was a Colts fan who loved watching them play on any given Sunday. He was an avid history buff and often said “If you want to know your future, know your history”. He treasured time by the water and fishing; although admittedly, he would spend more time talking than fishing, the memories he made with us was the real prize catch. Lowell enjoyed traveling, cooking alongside his wife and experiencing life to the fullest. Most of all, Lowell loved his family and hosting parties by the pool.
Along with his wife, Dianna, Lowell is survived by his children, Christi Kanable, Michelle (Mike) McCarthy, Leslie Rhinebarger, Brad (Danielle) Rush, Misty Fawbush, and Lowell (Bobbi) Evans Jr., and David Evans; 15 grandchildren, Lacey, Brittany, Brittani, Kelsey, Tanner, Cami, Conner, Katie, Nathan, Claire, Kaylee, Preston, Noah, Cullen, and Ira; 6 great grandchildren; brother, Dave (Jan) Heilman; and sister, Dorinda Walker, lifelong friends; Frank Downs, Kenny Ellison, Bill Whaley, and Les Dumoulin; many nieces & nephews; and his beloved dog, Bella.
He was preceded in death by his parents; sisters, Shirley Bowe and Norma Short; brother, Johnny Brooker; grandson, Evan Walker; granddaughter, Riley Kanable.
Honoring Lowell’s requests, a funeral service to share personal stories of love and laughter will take place at 11 am on Monday, August 7, 2023, at Shirley & Stout Funeral Homes, 1315 W. Lincoln Road, Kokomo, Indiana. Entombment will follow in Sunset Memory Garden Cemetery. Friends are invited to visit with the family from 9 am to 11 am on Monday at the funeral home. Memorial contributions may be made to St. Patrick Catholic Church. Messages of condolence may be left online at www.shirleyandstout.com.
Phyllis Ruth Smith
Phyllis Ruth Smith, age 91, of Kokomo, Indiana passed away on Thursday, August 3, 2023, at her residence. She was born on June 29, 1932, in Kokomo to the late Horace Eli and Ruth (Harmon) Butler.
Phyllis enjoyed crossword puzzles, puzzles, and playing with her great-grandchildren. She enjoyed spending time with her family. She was a member of South Side Apostolic Church.
Surviving are her children, Linda Taylor, Thomas Joe Smith, Carol (Van) Jackson, Tammy Smith, and Danny Smith; many grandchildren and many great-grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews.
Preceded in death are her parents; one son; one grandson; three brothers; and five sisters.
There will be a time of visitation for Phyllis on Monday, August 7, 2023, from 10:00 A.M. until the time of service at 12:00 P.M. at Ellers Mortuary Main Chapel, 725 South Main Street, Kokomo. Pastor Keith Mosier will be officiating. Burial will follow to Albright Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made in memory of Phyllis to South Side Apostolic Church, envelopes will be provided at the funeral home. Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.ellersmortuarymainstreet.com for the Smith family.
Mary Jo Schmitt
Heaven’s doors were open to welcome Mary Jo Schmitt, 68, who passed away at 11:52 a.m. on Sunday, July 30, 2023, at Brickyard Healthcare in Kokomo. She was born on February 27, 1955, the daughter of Wilbert “Bud” and Lucille (Taylor) Schmitt.
Mary loved to paint and create her ceramics. She thoroughly enjoyed going to Florida for the winter with her mom and brother-in-law for nine years. She was a member of St. Patrick Catholic Church and a past member of The Daughters of Isabella. Mary helped fix many funeral meals in the basement of the church, enjoying every moment. She loved going over to Ray’s Drive-In and talking to everyone who came in. It was like her second home.
Mary is survived by her siblings, Pamela Maloney, Robert (Carol) Schmitt, David (Debra) Schmitt, Luann (Paul) King and James “Pete” (Marta) Schmitt. Mary was blessed with several nieces, nephews and cousins.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Wilbert and Lucille Schmitt, and her brother-in-law, Michael Maloney.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, August 8, 2023, at St. Patrick Catholic Church, 1229 N. Washington St., Kokomo, with Rev. Fr. Christopher Shocklee the celebrant. Burial will follow in Kokomo Memorial Park Cemetery. Friends are invited to visit with the family from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. on Monday, August 7, 2023, at Shirley & Stout Funeral Home, 1315 W. Lincoln Rd., Kokomo, where the Rosary will be offered at 3:30 p.m. Memorial contributions may be made to St. Patrick Catholic Church or We Care in Mary’s memory. Messages of condolence may be left online at www.shirleyandstout.com.
Richard William “Rick” Brewster
Richard William “Rick” Brewster, 74, Kokomo, passed away at 8:00 am Wednesday, August 2, 2023, at Community Howard Regional Health in Kokomo. He was born March 3, 1949, in Kokomo, the son of the late Horace B. Jr. & Mary (Eikenberry) Brewster.
Rick was a 1967 graduate of Kokomo High School and attended Indiana University. He moved to California where he lived from 1978-2011. He worked for Delco Electronics, Harris Semi-Conductor, Washington Mutual Bank and Schlumberger Electronics. After retirement in 2011, he moved back to Kokomo and enjoyed playing golf and sailing in California. He also enjoyed get-togethers for family activities.
Rick is survived by his brother, Mark (Kim) Brewster; niece and nephew, Kate Brewster and Kyle (Chelsea) Brewster; and great-nephew, Quinn Brewster.
Rick was preceded in death by his parents; and sister, Nita Jo Brewster.
A graveside service will be held at 11:00 am Tuesday, August 8, 2023, in Sunset Memory Garden Cemetery, 2097 W. Alto Road, Kokomo, with Pastor Steve Conner officiating. Shirley & Stout Funeral Home & Crematory has been entrusted with arrangements.
Delbert Dale Wright
Delbert Dale Wright, 80, of Kokomo, passed away at 6:00 p.m. on Wednesday, August 2, 2023, at Brickyard Healthcare. He was born in Bloomfield, on September 3, 1942, the son of Jasper and Helen (Records) Wright. On July 15, 1962, he married Maxine Deckard, and she preceded him in death on July 15, 2015.
Delbert graduated from Bloomfield High School then went to Lincoln Tech Automotive to become a certified mechanic. He worked at FCA for 26 years and retired in December of 2002. Delbert loved to work on anything with a motor, fishing, camping with his grandkids, crossword puzzles, and yard work. He was in the Bowling league for Chrysler for many years. Delbert enjoyed taking motorcycle trips with his wife and was a member of the Gold Wing motorcycle club.
Delbert is survived by his children, Jana (Bryan) Miller and Greg Wright; grandchildren, Justin (Brittany) Miller, Andrew Miller, and Trae Wright; great grandchild, Nehemiah Miller and several nieces and nephews.
Preceding him in death were his wife, Maxine Wright; parents, Jasper and Helen Wright; sister, Laural Bugher; and brothers, Charles and Darrald Wright.
A funeral service will be held at 1:00 p.m. Tuesday, August 8, 2023, at Shirley & Stout Funeral Home, 1315 W. Lincoln Road, Kokomo, with Pastor Bob Phelps officiating. Burial will follow in Albright Cemetery. Friends are invited to visit with the family from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the funeral home on Tuesday. Memorial contributions may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association. Messages of condolence may be left online at www.shirleyandstout.com.
Joshua Adam Stipes
Joshua Adam Stipes, a beloved husband, father, son, brother, and friend, passed away suddenly on July 29, 2023, in his hometown of Kokomo, IN. Born on January 29, 1989, to David and Brenda Stipes, Joshua was a beacon of love, laughter, and faith throughout his life.
Joshua was a dedicated family man, survived by his loving wife, Bethany, (whom he was excited to marry and start his 2nd chapter of life with) and his six children: Hopelynn, Jordyn, Faith, Journey, Josslynn, and Eric. He was a devoted father, always prioritizing time with his children. Joshua also leaves behind his siblings Christina, Tommy, and Reanna, who will remember him as a funny and loving brother. His memory will be cherished by numerous friends and extended family members.
He was preceded in death by his baby brother; Logan James Stipes, maternal and paternal grandparents, and his uncle; Ronnie Stipes.
Joshua was an Assistant Manager at Jiffy Lube. His colleagues remember him as a hardworking and dedicated team member who brought positivity and humor to the workplace. His commitment to his work was evident in his daily interactions, and he was well-respected by both his peers and superiors.
Joshua's interests were as varied as they were passionate. He was an avid fisherman, often spending his free time by the water, rod in hand. His love for the outdoors was only surpassed by his love for his family and his faith. Joshua was an active member of his church, volunteering during Vacation Bible School week at Stars of Light and singing in the choir. His newfound faith was a guiding force in his life, and he was always excited to share the "Jesus Loves You" cards with others.
Described as funny, loving, and faith-filled, Joshua had a knack for making people laugh and feel loved. He was a source of joy and comfort to those around him, always ready with a kind word or a helping hand. His faith was an inspiration to many, and his unwavering belief in the goodness of people was a testament to his character.
Joshua's life was a testament to the power of love, laughter, and faith. His memory will live on in the hearts of his loved ones, and his spirit will continue to inspire those who knew him. Joshua Adam Stipes will be deeply missed, but his legacy of love and faith will continue to shine brightly in the lives of those he left behind.
A Celebration of Life is scheduled for Joshua on Tuesday, August 8, 2023, at 5:00 pm at Stars of Light Church; 809 South Elizabeth Street in Kokomo. Please visit www.cityoffirstscremations.com to leave a condolence for the family.
Deborah Kathleen “Debbie” Rowden
Deborah Kathleen “Debbie” Rowden, 74, Galveston, passed away at 7:39 am Wednesday August 2, 2023, at her home. She was born April 13, 1949, in Kokomo, the daughter of the late Robert Harmon & Patsy (Banter) Ward. On May 19, 1968, she married Donald Lee Rowden and he survives.
Debbie was a 1968 graduate of Kokomo High School. She retired from Delco Electronics on October 31, 2001, after 31 years of service. She was owner and operator of Debra’s Candlelight Bridal Shop. After retirement, she worked as a custodian for Lewis Cass School Corporation from October 2006 – July 2014. She retired to spend quality time with her husband of 55 years, daughters and grandchildren.
Debbie was a collector of antiques, dolls and baby bottles. She loved karaoke, dancing, and singing Patsy Cline songs and even some Prince! She enjoyed meeting with her sisters for their monthly lunches and was a “pop in” visitor with family and friends. She loved keeping in touch and spending time with family at their lake house and was a “big” shopper.
Along with her husband Donald, Debbie is also survived by her children, Christina Smith, Brenda (Rodney) Grubb and Regina (Brian) Reese; bonus daughters, Madeline “Ruth” Stevens and Charlotte Gaither; grandchildren, Ashleigh (Gary) Scott, Cassie (Sam) Kirby, Bryce Smith, Abbey (Jamey) Reese, Nolan (Brittney) Grubb, Krista Rowden, Kohl Dillman and Cory (Jenna) Dillman; 13 great-grandchildren and 1 great-great-grandson; sisters, Rhonda Abney, Karen Harmon, Joanne Trent, Angela Ward, Patricia Stanfill, Belinda Merriman and Barbara Wells; sister-in-law, Debbie (Dan) Taylor, along with several nieces, nephews and friends that loved her.
Debbie was preceded in death by her parents; stepmom, Nancy Harmon; stepdad, Floyd Ward; and brother, Richard Harmon.
The family would like to give a special thank you to Southern Care Hospice nurses, Jamie and Jonothan for their compassionate care and to all our family that provided loving care to Debbie.
Funeral service will be held at 11:00 am Wednesday, August 9, 2023, at Shirley & Stout Funeral Home & Crematory, 1315 W. Lincoln Road, Kokomo, with her brother-in-law, Dan Taylor officiating. Burial will follow in Kokomo Memorial Park Cemetery. Friends are invited to visit with the family from 4-7 pm Tuesday at the funeral home. Messages of condolence may be left online at www.shirleyandstout.com.
Charles “Charlie” A. Wright
Charles “Charlie” A. Wright, 23, passed away on Monday, July 31, 2023. Charlie was born on March 30, 2000, the son of Chad and Charlotte (Crumley) Wright.
Charlie worked as an Electrician Apprentice for the IBEW and had worked at Taco Bell. He enjoyed working out at One More Gym and at the Kokomo Family YMCA. He attended Faith Tabernacle Church.
Survivors include his mother, Charlotte Wright; brother, Cory Wright and Charles Wright; nephews, Cody Wright, Clayton Wright; grandparents, John & Brenda Daily and Larry Wright; great-grandmother, Jeanie Wright; and several aunts, uncles and cousins.
He was preceded in death by his father, Chad Wright; brother, Clayton Wright; grandmother, Rosemary (Crumley) Joseph; grandfather, Charles Crumley; great-grandmother, Wilma Baldwin; and great-grandfather, Keith Wright.
Arrangements have not been made at this time. Memorial contributions may be made to Shirley & Stout Funeral Home to assist the family with Final Expenses.