Obituaries, May 13, 2023

Leara Joy Turner

Leara Joy Turner, 82, passed away May 9, 2023. Fondly referred to as “Joy Baby” by her family, she was born February 23, 1941, to Albert and Leara (Wood) Alexander in Kokomo, Indiana. She lived in Kokomo most of her life, but also lived in Alaska and Montana for a short time. She retired from General Motors. She enjoyed traveling, visiting Florida beaches, Las Vegas and local casinos. She like shopping garage sales and decorating her home. She loved animals and had her own style of animal prints and ‘bling’.

Leara was a kind and generous soul who treasured her close friends. Everyone who knew her thought the world of her. She could never let anyone go without if she had the means to help. She believed in old school family values and loved her family with her whole heart. She was very close to her siblings. Family always came first, as it was the most important thing in her life. She was truly one of a kind and will be missed every day.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Albert and Leara; brother, Laurel “Dee” Alexander; and sisters, Janet Alexander Hulet, and Judy Alexander Gross.

She is survived by her children, Angela (Tim) Richey and Steven (Jennifer) Turner; brother, Steve (Kathy) Alexander; grandchildren, Ben Johnson, Colton Richey, Kelsey Turner and Zach Turner; great-grandchildren, Jacob Richey, Zeppelin England, Maddox England, Leara England, Eveleigh Johnson, and Arabella Johnson; as well as many nieces and nephews.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.ellersmortuarywebster.com for the Turner family.

Janelle Nichole Grisham

It is with great sorrow, we announce the passing of Janelle Nichole Grisham, of Kokomo, Indiana, at the age of 44. Janelle passed away Monday, May 8, 2023, at Community North Hospital in Indianapolis surrounded by family. She was born on February 7, 1979, in Belleville, IL, the daughter of Charles & Melody (Imm) Grisham.

Janelle loved volunteering at North Woods Village Senior Care where she often called Bingo for the residents. She also enjoyed playing Uno, camping, eating out, socializing and talking to all who would listen. One of her favorite pastimes was watching Mama’s Family, Golden Girls, and Wheel of Fortune.

Those who knew Janelle, even just a little, lost a shining light in their lives. When you think of her, celebrate the good memories you have and how her infectious smile would light up your soul. Her presence in our lives will be deeply missed by those who knew and loved her.

Janelle is survived by her parents; her sister, Jennifer Henke; her nephew, Nathan Henke; her aunts, Marcella Henrichs, Paula Capper, Kim Hosler and Christy Harting, along with several cousins and many friends.

No public services will be held. Arrangements have been entrusted to Shirley & Stout Funeral Home in Kokomo. Messages of condolence may be left online at www.shirleyandstout.com.

Twila Jean Claeys

Twila Jean Claeys, 86, Kokomo, passed away late Sunday morning, May 7, 2023 at her home. She was born May 5, 1937 in Chappell, Nebraska to Amon and Dorotha (Yoder) Stutzman.

Twila worked for the Howard County Public Library and for the American Greeting Card Company. A Strong woman of faith, Twila loved the Lord and raised her children in the faith. She enjoyed sewing, quilting, reading, and gardening, but above all, she cherished her family and time spent with her grandchildren.

She is survived by her son, Brian Claeys; daughter, Laura (Todd) Harper; grandchildren, Lily Harper and Sampson Harper; siblings, Dale (Joanne) Stutzman, Fern Harbage, Neva (Ken) Frey, and Josie Swartzendruber; as well as several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents and husband, Gary Bruce Claeys.

Twila will be cremated with memorial services to be held at a later date. Shirley & Stout Funeral Home & Crematory is assisting the family with arrangements. Messages of condolence may be left at www.shirleyandstout.com.

Katherine O. Eads

Katherine O. Eads, 70, of Kokomo, Indiana passed away on May 11, 2023. She was born on December 24,1952 in Kokomo, IN the daughter of Lawrence John Deck and Nellie Catherine (Bowen) Deck. She married William Eads who survives. Kathy retired from Delco after 30 years. She enjoyed crafts, reading, but most of all she loved spending time with her family.

Left to cherish her memory is her loving husband of 52 years, Bill; children, Dawn (Darrell Dumas) Horoho, Karrie (Chris Sullivan) Hall, Tonya (Charlie) Bradley; grandchildren, Jacob, Chanea, Searra, Osha, Starr, Daymon, Christian; many great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents; brothers and sisters.

Visitation will be from 10:00 - 1:00 Wednesday, May 17, 2023 at Sunset Memory Garden Funeral Home. Funeral services will be at 1:00 Wednesday, May 17, 2023 at Sunset Memory Garden Funeral Home, 2097 West Alto Road Kokomo, Indiana 46902. Burial will follow at Sunset Memory Garden Cemetery Kokomo, Indiana. Share a memory with the family at www.sunsetmemorygarden.com.