Obituaries, December 23, 2023
Loreda Ozment
Loreda Ozment, 90, of Taylorsville, North Carolina, and formerly of Kokomo, Indiana, passed away on Saturday, December 16, 2023, at Iredell Memorial Hospital, in Statesville, North Carolina. She was born December 22, 1932, in Sharps Chapel, Tennessee, to Hobert and Goldie (Dossett) White. On May 4, 1957, she married Thomas Lynn Ozment, at the Fairlawn United Brethren Church in Kokomo, and he preceded her in death on November 9, 2013.
Loreda graduated from Kokomo High School and retired from Delco Electronics where she had worked as a secretary. Some of her favorite hobbies included cooking and gardening. Before Thomas’ passing, he and Loreda were very active members of Fairlawn United Brethren Church and later Morning Star Church. They both enjoyed attending church, teaching bible classes, and singing. Loreda was a current member of Bald Mountain Baptist Church in West Jefferson, North Carolina.
Survivors include her children, David Ozment and Julie Pelicano; grandchildren, Jesse Francis, Eric Francis, Ned Taylor, and Sarah Clanton; several great-grandchildren; and aunt, Eva Dalton.
In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by her parents and a daughter, Beth Ozment.
Funeral services will be held at 3 p.m. on Tuesday., December 26, 2023, at Shirley & Stout Funeral Home, 1315 W. Lincoln Rd., Kokomo, with Pastor Logan Sparling officiating. Burial will follow in Albright Cemetery. Friends are invited to visit with the family from 1 to 3 p.m. on Tuesday at the funeral home. Messages of condolence may be left online at www.shirleyandstout.com.
Lemon D. Townsend
Lemon D. Townsend, 88, of Kokomo, died December 21, 2023, after a 15-year battle with multiple myeloma. He was born in Estill County, KY, on March 7, 1935, the son of the late Hughie and Carrie (Hall) Townsend. He married Diamond S. Turner in Walton, IN, on October 9, 1954, and she survives.
He attended schools in Onward and Walton, IN. He was a star basketball player for the Walton Warriors. Lemon proudly served our country in the Marine Corps from 1952 to 1955 and spent 13 months in Korea. He retired from Continental Steel in Kokomo in 1986 after 31 years of service.
In addition to his wife of 69 years Diamond, he is survived by his sons, Greg (Rebecca) Townsend, Doug (Christine) Townsend; daughter, Pam Roe; grandchildren, Christian Swisher, Jeremy Roe, Melanie Bevill, Brad Townsend, Heather Kurtz, Brittany Fierro; 17 great-grandchildren; 3 great-great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents; two brothers, Orval Townsend, Bud Townsend; sister, Levellia Piercy; granddaughter, Sadie Townsend; grandson, Tyler Townsend.
Friends are invited to visit with the family from 10 am to Noon Wednesday December 27, 2023, at Shirley & Stout Funeral Home & Crematory, 1315 West Lincoln Road, Kokomo, IN 46902. Funeral service will begin at Noon on Wednesday at the funeral home, with Pastor Dianne Wagner officiating. Burial will follow in Albright Cemetery. Military honors will be provided by the United States Marine Corps. and the Kokomo VFW Military Rites Team. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in Lemon’s name to the Sadie A. Townsend Memorial Scholarship Fund courtesy of the Community Foundation of Howard County, or to the Kokomo Veterans of Foreign Wars. Messages of condolence may be left online at www.shirleyandstout.com.
Barbara E. Henninger
Barbara E. Henninger, 77 of Kokomo, passed away at 2:18p.m. on December 19, 2023, at University Hospital in Indianapolis after a lengthy battle with autoimmune liver disease.
Born on December 9, 1946, in Miami County, Barb was the loving daughter of Ralph and Betty Ellars. She was united in marriage to Robert J. Henninger on November 21, 1965, at Santa Fe United Methodist Church.
Barb grew up in Wabash, Indiana and enjoyed country life. She graduated from Southwood High School. Barb was a loving wife, a dedicated homemaker and a faithful follower of Christ. Barb worked at Northwestern School Corporation in food services for many years with her lifelong friend, Bonnie Graves. Her true passion was caring for her children, grandchildren and great grandchildren. Barb attended and faithfully served at In His Image Church. She enjoyed spending her time with family and friends, making memories at her childhood home (now called, “The Farm”), playing marbles, taking golf cart rides, and observing nature. Barb also loved vacationing in Minnesota with family and friends.
In addition to her loving husband, Robert Henninger, survivors include a son, Mark (Dawn) Henninger; a daughter, Tammy (Larry) Barnett; grandchildren, Cory Henninger, Kathy Decanini, Allie Badham, Shelby Kuhlman, and Devin Barnett; and four great grandchildren.
Barb was preceded in death by a son, David Henninger and her parents, Ralph and Betty Ellars.
A gathering of friends and family will take place on Wednesday, December 27, 2023, at In His Image Church from 12:30 pm to 2:00 pm. A Celebration of Life will be led by Pastor Steven Claspell at 2:00 pm. Graveside services will be held immediately following at Crown Point Cemetery. Family and friends are welcome to meet at the Church Fellowship Hall after the services for a meal and to Rejoice in His Image.
Memorial donations in lieu of flowers can be made to In His Image Church; 2940 East 50 North Kokomo Indiana.
Please visit www.cityoffirstscremations.com to leave a condolence or memory for the family.
Rosemary "Rosey" Walker
Rosemary "Rosey" Walker, 92, of Warsaw, IN, passed away on Tuesday, December 19, 2023, at her residence in Warsaw, Indiana. Born on July 24, 1931, in Kokomo, IN, to the late Gladys (Drake) and Cleo Adams.
Rosemary was a proud graduate of Kokomo High School and Indiana University. A gifted pianist, she generously shared her musical talents as the church organist at the First Presbyterian Church in Kokomo, where she and her late husband, Herbert Walker, were devoted members. Their union began on August 2, 1953.
In 1967, Rosemary and Herbert relocated to Marion, Indiana, where they successfully owned and operated two restaurants. Sadly, Herbert passed away on December 24, 1970. Undeterred by life's challenges, Rosemary embarked on a remarkable academic journey. At the age of 42, she moved to West Lafayette and enrolled at Purdue University, earning her Master's Degree and Ph.D. in Consumer and Family Economics in 1978.
Rosemary’s passion for education led her to Southern Illinois University in Carbondale, IL, as an Associate Professor and later to Michigan State University, where she served as a tenured Professor from 1984 until her retirement in 2001. She was a valued member of a research team seeking to better understand family-owned businesses. Beyond the classroom, Rosemary served as a docent at the Kresge Art Museum at Michigan State University. She was dedicated to community service, having served as a Board Member for the MSU Federal Credit Union and on the Chrysler Corporation Arbitration Board for many years. Rosey had a servant's heart, volunteering for PBS, recording tapes for the visually impaired, and consistently supporting food banks. She was a staunch advocate for education and libraries, emphasizing the importance of reading and education for children.
An enthusiastic supporter of MSU Spartan football and basketball, Rosemary also cherished the arts, frequently attending performances at the Wharton Center for Performing Arts. Her diverse interests included participating in book clubs, playing bridge, engaging in board games with her grandchildren, and tending to her garden. In recent years, she found joy in cheering on her grandson Matthew, a member of the Lake City Skiers Water Ski Show team during the summers.
Progressive, brilliant, wise, witty, faithful, and virtuous, Rosemary always placed her family first.
Rosemary is survived by her children, Bruce Walker, Betsy Voss (Juergen), and Lisa Hayes (Butch); grandchildren, Michelle Shipley (Kris), Matthew Voss, Lindsey Parker, and Lauren Parker; and great-grandchildren, Cameron Shipley and Claire Shipley. In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by her son-in-law, Michael Parker.
A funeral service will be held at 2 pm on Wednesday, December 27, 2023, at Shirley and Stout Funeral Home, 1315 W. Lincoln Road, Kokomo, with Pastor Jeff Haill officiating. Friends are invited to visit with the family from 12 pm until the time of the service, Wednesday, at the funeral home. Memorial contributions may be made in Rosemary’s name to the Michigan State University Library, 366 W. Circle Drive East, Lansing, MI 48824 or online at https://lib.msu.edu/support. Messages of condolence may be made online at www.shirleyandstout.com.
Meredith “Bud” Keith Shanks
Meredith “Bud” Keith Shanks, 89, of Kokomo, passed away 9:31 am Thursday December 21, 2023, at Wellbrooke of Kokomo. He was born at home in Russiaville, IN, on March 3, 1934, the son of the late Barton and Beulah (Butcher) Shanks. On November 27, 1952, he married Sharon Bousum, and she survives.
Bud was a 1952 graduate of Western High School. He retired from Haynes International – Stellite after 34 years of service in sales. He was passionate about agriculture and worked as a farmer for his entire life. Bud was a hard-working and loving man. He was most proud of his family, and they were his greatest joy. He loved being a grandpa and great-grandpa. He formerly attended Oakland Christian Church and held his church membership at Judson Baptist Church. Bud enjoyed playing golf at his home course Chippendale Golf Club, running every evening after work, and cheering for the Purdue Boilermakers.
In addition to his wife of 71 years Sharon Shanks, he is survived by his children, Bruce (Melissa) Shanks, Kim (Greg) Starkey, Lisa Shanks; siblings, Carol Bartley, Judy (Joe) Oyler, Bob (Kathy) Shanks; grandchildren, Brandon (Lauren) Shanks, Aubrey (Clayton) Donlan, Matt Britton, Laura Britton; and 8 great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents; and brother-in-law, Harvey Bartley.
Friends are invited to visit with the family from 10 am to 12:30 pm Thursday December 28, 2023, at Stout & Son Funeral Home – Russiaville Chapel, 200 East Main Street, Russiaville, IN 46979. Funeral service will begin at 12:30 on Thursday at the funeral home with Pastors Gary Britton and Rob Marcus officiating. Entombment will take place in Sunset Memory Garden. Contributions may be made in Bud’s name to Judson Baptist Church.
Heaven Rain “Rainy” Martin
Heaven Rain “Rainy” Martin, 17, of Russiaville, passed away 11:13 pm Wednesday December 20, 2023, at her home surrounded by her loving family. She was born in Lafayette, IN, on August 6, 2006. She was born to Destini Quinn and then adopted by Kimberlee and Leo Marvin.
Rainy attended Western School Corps. and was homeschooled. She made a lasting impact on the Russiaville Community in a short time. She was employed at Hacienda in Kokomo as a waitress assistant and was a member of the “chip squad.” Rainy was a joyful girl who had the biggest heart. She adored babies and treated her nieces and nephews as her own. She had dreams of becoming a mom and having a farm in her backyard. She enjoyed crocheting, drawing, singing, and dancing.
She is survived by her mother, Kimberlee Marvin; siblings, Destini (Bret) Quinn, Brittany Foster, Jace (Ashley Ruhlander) Marvin, Wolfe Marvin, Katerina Marvin; grandmother, Barbara Marvin; aunts and uncles, Theresa (Terry) Grossman, Margie Quattroclocche, Billy (Patti) Marvin, Bill McKinzie, Judy Turner; nieces and nephews, Kaleigh, Dale, Zacarias, Adrian, Oliver, Jayson; and countless friends.
She was preceded in death by her father, Leo Marvin; special uncle, Bob, many other aunts and uncles; grandparents, Jean; and her best friend Vinny Horn.
Friends are invited to visit with the family from 11 am to 1 pm, Saturday, December 30, 2023, at the Russiaville Lions Club, 555 North Liberty Street, Russiaville, IN 46979. A Celebration of Life will begin at 1 pm on Saturday at the Lions Club, with Chaplain Dave McKinney officiating. A link will be available to view the Celebration Life at 1 pm on Saturday. The family would like to invite you to a carry-in lunch at the conclusion of the Celebration of Life. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Stout & Son Funeral Home to assist with final expenses. A link will be available on Rainy’s obituary page to contribute directly towards expenses. Stout & Son Funeral Home – Russiaville Chapel has been entrusted with arrangements.
James V. “Jim” Hollingsworth
James V. “Jim” Hollingsworth, 84, of Galveston also known as “Hollywood” to his co-workers at Chrysler, passed away peacefully with his family by his side Wednesday, December 20, 2023, at his home. He married Elizabeth “Betty” Miller on February 3, 1967, in Peru, Indiana and she survives.
Jim was a welder by trade and retired from Chrysler Transmission in Kokomo with over 31 years’ service. He had many interests including antique cars, woodworking, fishing, target practice, tractor pulls, NASCAR, camping, and traveling all over the United States. Jim and Betty traveled to all but four of the states during their lifetime. One of his favorite things to do was riding his wheel horse garden tractor. He enjoyed yardwork and keeping everything in shape. He was a wonderful “Papaw”, always telling each of his grandchildren they were his favorite. He was a jokester always telling something funny to family and friends to keep them on their toes. He also truly enjoyed time spent at the beaches of the Gulf of Mexico. He was a member of UAW Local #685 and the NRA. He attended United in Faith Church formerly Galveston United Methodist in Galveston. Papaw made the world a better place and we will miss the light he brought to everyone’s life.
Surviving family include his beloved wife Betty of Galveston, his children, Randall Householder of Greentown, IN; Bruce (Renea) Hollingsworth of Madera Beach, FL; Randy (Candace) Hollingsworth of Palmetto, FL; Gary Hollingsworth of Peru, IN; Lori Monroe of Logansport, IN; Mandy Hollingsworth of Peru, IN; and son-in-law, Leon S. Peck of Franklin, TN. Surviving grandchildren include, Leon (Chelsea) Peck of Nashville, TN; Daniel Peck of Cordova, TN; Sean Peck of Franklin, TN; Nathan Peck of Franklin, TN; Matthew Hollingsworth of Clearwater, FL; Dane (Dee) Householder of Clinton, IN; Tyler Monroe of Logansport, IN; Nicholas Titus of Logansport, IN; and Jessica Barber of Bradenton, FL. Surviving great grandchildren are Lexy (Seth) Parsons of Peru, IN; Kaydence Hollingsworth, of Peru, IN; and Madison Hollingsworth of Arizona. He is also survived by one great great granddaughter, Veda Parsons of Peru, IN. Two sisters survive, Mary Ellen Campbell of Peru, IN; and LuAnn Griffith of Dayton, OH. Jim is preceded in death by his parents, daughter, Cynthia Diane Householder Peck and siblings Brenda Reed, and Jeff Griffith and his beloved dog Angel.
A memorial service will be held at 4:00 p.m. Saturday, January 13, 2024, at Murray Weaver Funeral Home in Galveston with Pastor Doug Benham officiating. A time of visitation will be held prior to services from 12:00 noon until service time at 4:00 p.m. at the funeral home. Memorial contributions may be given to Cancer Research or United in Christ Church in Galveston. Murray Weaver Funeral Home in Galveston has been entrusted with arrangements. www.murrayweaverfuneralhome.com
Jessica Brooke Geary
Jessica Brooke Geary, a beacon of love and creativity, passed away peacefully on December 20, 2023, at the age of 46, in her hometown of Kokomo, IN, where she was also born on October 15, 1977. Known for her courageous spirit and loving heart, Jessica's presence was a gift to all who knew her.
Jessica is survived by a family who adored her deeply: her devoted husband, Jeffery Alexander; her loving mother, Nancy Beckner, and her father, John Beckner; her cherished children, Ontaisha Geary, Omri Alexander, Ray'Aija Peoples, and Nevaeh Alexander; her caring siblings, Gabrielle Beckner, Sophie Lysell, Mollie Modrow, Boone Beckner, Jonni Sears, and Kirby Hagood; her sister-in-law, Latisha Harris, and brother-in-law, Damon Harris; along with many adoring nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her grandparents, Thomas and Margie Geary; grandmother, Verda Lee Carson; and birth father, Richard Hagood.
A proud graduate of Kokomo High School, Jessica furthered her education by earning an Associate's degree from Ivy Tech. Her professional life was marked by her passion for animals, as she became a respected dog breeder for Pit Bulls "Bullies," and she embraced the role of mother with unparalleled dedication.
Jessica's interests were as diverse as her talents. She had an exceptional ability to cook, a pastime she often shared with her children, creating lasting memories in the kitchen. Her hands were rarely still, as she loved to tinker with various projects, showcasing her creative flair.
To know Jessica was to know the embodiment of love and courage. She approached life with a creative spark that inspired those around her. Jessica's legacy will continue to live on through the lives of her family and all who were fortunate enough to cross her path. Her spirit, forever etched in the hearts of her loved ones, will be deeply missed.
City of Firsts Cremation and Funeral Services by Rose and Geiger was chosen to handle arrangements for the family. Messages of condolence may be left at cityoffirstscremations.com.