Obituaries

Malinda L. Sawyer

Malinda L. Sawyer 42, of Indianapolis passed away Sunday, November 5, 2023 at her home. Malinda was born October 26th, 1981 in Danville Indiana to James J. Sawyer and Lilly M. Barger. 

 

Malinda attended North Putnam High School and was a 1999 graduate of American Midwest Academy. Malinda was very outgoing and loved having a good time with family and friends. Malinda was a one of a kind, as some might remember she was a very confident person to be around. She was very generous and always there for you even if she was mad. She was very protective of her family, and loved her kids dearly. She was the type of person that would give you the shirt off her back. Malinda always had a smile on her face no matter how she was feeling. She was the type of person if you were around her you were going to be having a good time and she was going to make you laugh the night away. There was definitely never a dull moment with her. Her sister would describe her as a little sweet and salty and like a pit bull. Malinda and her brother always had a saying they would say to each other and that was “Nobody can mess with you, only I can” and boy was that true. 

 

Survivors include a daughter Alexis R. Sawyer, son Kalyl J. Smith, Mother Lilly M. Barger (Donald G Johnston, jr) a brother James J. Sawyer (Teona) a sister Laronda T. Basham (Kevin) Maternal grandmother Beverly S. Goins along with nephews and nieces Tyler Basham, Dalton Sawyer, Kori Sawyer, Autumn Shrum, Skyler Byrd, Gavin Byrd, and Blake Basham. 

 

She was preceded in death by her father James J. Sawyer, maternal grandfather Thomas G. Goins, Paternal grandparents James William and Irene Sawyer. 

 

There will be a celebration of life on Saturday December 2nd at the North Salem Community Building, 6 S Main St, North Salem from 2-6 P.M.

 

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Malinda L. Sawyer, please visit our floral store.

Imogene Rose (McCann) Martin

Imogene Rose (McCann) Martin, 98, Lebanon, passed away Nov. 21, 2023, at her home, The Waters of Lebanon.

Imogene was born in Terre Haute on Oct. 8, 1925 to Ross and Sallie McCann. She grew up in Terre Haute and after graduating from State High School, married Roy Martin on Dec. 24, 1944.

Imogene resided with her husband and children in Terre Haute as well as Seelyville and Greencastle. She was a telephone operator for Bell Telephone and General Telephone in Greencastle for many years. She and her husband, Roy, were married 58 years until his death in 2002; and together, they reared five children.

After Roy’s death, Imogene was active in the Terre Haute community as well as developing a unique style of creative writing by attending classes at Indiana State University. She then moved to Lebanon, where she enjoyed volunteering at Witham Hospital, The Lebanon Area Boys & Girls Club, Caring Center and Classic Reruns. Imogene enjoyed her new friendships as well as being the matriarch of many family gatherings.

She then moved to The Waters of Lebanon, where she developed her talent in arts and crafts. Imogene was very surprised and proud to win both grand champion and blue ribbons for her art entries at the Boone County 4-H Fair.

Imogene’s faith was her strength throughout her life. In 1952, she was baptized in the Pentecostal faith and was active in several churches, both in Terre Haute and Putnam County. After moving to Lebanon, she was an active member of Bethel Apostolic Pentecostal Church, whose members became her loyal friends and second family including Douglas and Theresa Hanners and Rusty and Tabitha King.

To her Martin family, Imogene (Mom and Grandma) was a role model for her positive attitude, her faith, her talents, her determination to enjoy each day and her love for all of them. She was also known for her willingness to try something new and her sense of humor.

Survivors include sons Michael Martin (wife Jeannie) of Lebanon and Danny Martin (wife Miki) of Greencastle; son in-law Virgil Hyde of Terre Haute; eight grandchildren, Diana Shonk, Abby LaBolle (Brian), David Martin, Anthony Bledsoe (Nikki), Robert Bledsoe, Alea Martin, Philip Troyer (Alison) and Brian Troyer (CJ); 12 great-grandchildren; and one great-great-grandchild.

Preceding her in death besides her husband, Roy, include three daughters, Sallie Rowlett, Mary Beth Troyer and Lori Hyde, and Imogene’s brother, Richard McCann.

The Martin family thanks The Waters of Lebanon for providing Imogene with a caring community and a healthy and enjoyable standard of life over the last six years.

Imogene requested leaving her family and friends with this parting message: “Until we meet again.”

Private Family Services will be held at Highland Lawn Cemetery in Terre Haute, with Douglas and Theresa Hanners of Bethel officiating. Myers Mortuary has been entrusted with her arrangements.

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to the Lebanon Caring Center, 1230 Ransdell Court, Lebanon, IN 46052, or the Lebanon Boys and Girls Club, 403 W. Main St., Lebanon, IN 46052.

Online condolences: www.MyersMortuary.com

Richard R. Neese

Richard R. Neese, 80, formerly of Reelsville, passed away on Nov. 23, 2023.

He was born Dec. 29, 1942 to the late Ora and Mary (Roberts) Neese.

He married Mable L. (Gray) Neese on June 19, 1968, and she preceded him in death on Oct. 3, 2013.

He is survived by his daughter, Shelly (Kenny) Boler; son Christopher (Michelle) Neese; grandchildren Brandy Abernathy, Tiffany Abernathy, Christian Sellers, Gavin McRoberts, Kylee Johnson and Zane Neese; and great-grandchildren Destinie Abernathy and Ophelia McRoberts.

In addition to his parents and wife, he is also preceded in death by his granddaughter, Paula Boler; brother Lewis Neese; and sisters Lois Marie Dobson and Malinda Florence Simmons.

Richard was a member of the Moose Lodge and retired from Putnamville Correctional Facility after 37 years of service.

Funeral services for Richard will be held at 6 p.m. on Wednesday, Nov. 29 at Whitaker Funeral Home, Cloverdale. Visitation will be from 4 p.m. until the service time of 6 p.m. at the funeral home.

Condolences may be made at www.whitakerfuneralhome.net.

Doris J. Knauer

Doris J. Knauer, 88, of Greencastle, passed away on Nov. 22, 2023.

She was born Jan. 3, 1935 to the late Clayton and Winnie (Davis) Cox.

She married William E. Knauer on Feb. 24, 1951, and he preceded her in death Jan. 3, 2012.

Doris is survived by her son, Michael E. Knauer of Greencastle, daughter June E. (Rick) Query of Reelsville, sisters Barbara Stewart and Bernice Morgan, brother Jerry (Wilma) Cox, eight grandchildren and several great- and great-great-grandchildren and her little dog, Pepper.

In addition to her husband and parents she is also preceded in death by her daughter, Diane Allee, sister Betty Bruner and brother Russell Cox.

Funeral services will be held for Doris at 1 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 9 at Whitaker Funeral Home, Cloverdale. Visitation will be from 11 a.m. until the service time of 1 p.m. at the funeral home.

The family would like to send a thank you to Life’s Journey Hospice, Brittney, Vickie, Becky and Amanda.

Condolences may be made at www.whitakerfuneralhome.net.

Robert 'Bob' Allen Vincent

Robert “Bob” Allen Vincent, 67, of Crawfordsville, passed away Thursday morning, Nov. 23, 2023.

Bob was born Nov. 26, 1955 in Lexington, Ky., to Bob Vincent and Fanny Rose (Creech) Hensley. He graduated from high school and attended the University of Kentucky. On May 31,1990, Bob married Beverly J. Riggle. They were married for 33 years.

Bob proudly served his country in the U.S. Air Force. He was a self-employed trim carpenter doing work for the Haste Woodcraft Company. He was also a truck driver for many years.

Bob was a proud father and grandfather. He enjoyed fishing and hunting with his son and grandchildren. His family was his first priority. He enjoyed being part of their lives and watching them play sports and perform in musicals. Bob also loved music, playing his guitars and his dogs. He was a big Kentucky Wildcats fan.

Survivors include his wife, Beverly J. Vincent; son Matt Williams (Angie); grandchildren Alivia Williams, Marlin Williams and Molly Williams; his sisters, Dana Vincent, Kimberly Slone and Melissa Cox; brothers Steven Vincent and David McMillan; his mother, Fanny Rose Hensley; stepmother Brenda Vincent; along with several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his father, Bob Vincent, and his stepfather, Victor Hensley.

There will be a celebration of life on Sunday, Dec. 3 at Stone Creek Lodge, 2865 S. SR 47 South, Crawfordsville, from 1-4 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Friends of Sugar Creek. You can find a donate now button on the website friendsofsugarcreek.org or mail a check to Friends of Sugar Creek, PO Box 291, Crawfordsville, IN 47933.

You are invited to visit www.serviesmorgan.com where you may share a memory or condolence with the family.

Geraldine Grace Barcus

Geraldine Grace Barcus, 97, of Florida, formerly of Greencastle, passed away on Monday, Nov. 20, 2023.

She was born Jan. 19, 1926, in Fillmore, the daughter of Glen Hayes and Grace (Morgan) Morehart.

She was a graduate of Fillmore High School in the class of 1944.

She married Ralph Harvey Barcus on June 30, 1946, and he preceded her in death on March 1, 2013.

Geraldine was a bookkeeper at Prevo’s for several years.

She was a member of the Fillmore Christian Church, the Order of the Eastern Star and attended First Baptist Church in Greencastle prior to moving to Florida.

She was preceded in death by her husband, parents and son-in-law James New.

Geraldine is survived by her daughters, Mary Ann (Bernie) Cripe of Frankfort and Carolyn New (Rick) Stock of Lake Helen, Fla.; a sister, Mary Jane Morris; sister-in-law Phyllis Shoemaker; five grandchildren, Lisa (Cliff) Hornback, Tammara (Brian) Prager, Carrie (Brad) Miller, Natalie (Addison) Ladiero and Mary Mariah New; five great-grandchildren; and one great-great-grandchild.

Funeral with Eastern Star services will be held at 11 a.m. on Tuesday, Nov. 28 at the Hopkins-Rector Funeral Home. Interment will follow at the Forest Hill Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 10 a.m. until time of service at the funeral home on Tuesday.

Memorial contributions made be made in memory of Geraldine to OES Chapter 255 c/o Linda Allee, 814 Sherwood Dr., Greencastle, IN 46135.

Alan Wayne Massey

Alan Wayne Massey, 78, of Greencastle, passed away on Sunday, Nov. 19, 2023 at Methodist Hospital.

Alan was born Feb. 2, 1945, the son of Herschel and Ruby (Seward) Massey, at Putnam County Hospital.

Mr. Massey was an implement dealer for more than 40 years in the Tipton and Michigantown area. He was also a passionate life-long farmer. Alan was a 65-year member of the Beech Grove Church. He enjoyed mushroom hunting, driving his antique cars and tractors.

On Dec. 8, 2021, Alan wedded his loving wife, Sharon Massey, whom he had known since childhood. Their initial encounter dates back to when they were 14 years old, and they have shared the journey of the past 20 years together.

He is survived by his wife, Sharon Massey; stepchildren, including Shannon Clodfelter, Sheryl Gray (Al) and Gregory Clodfelter (Jennifer); several stepgrandchildren and stepgreat-grandchildren; and many cousins.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Herschel and Ruby Massey.

Funeral services will be held at 1 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 25 at the Hopkins-Rector Funeral Home. Interment will follow at the Little Walnut Cemetery.

The family will receive friends from 11 a.m. until time of service on Saturday at the funeral home.

Larry Gene Richardson

Larry Gene Richardson, 65, of Greencastle, passed away on Saturday, Nov. 18, 2023.

He was born Dec. 6, 1957, in Indianapolis, the son of Gene O. and Bessie T. Richardson.

He was a graduate of North Putnam High School and received his associate’s degree from ITT Technical Institute.

Larry worked in computer system administration for various companies throughout his career.

He was preceded in death by his parents and wife Cathena “Cathy” Richardson.

Larry is survived by his son, Ryan (Christina) Richardson; a brother, Jerry (Carol) Richardson; and granddaughters Emma and Lily Richardson.

Memorial services will be held at a later date.

Hopkins-Rector Funeral Home has been entrusted with the arrangements.

Memorial contributions may be made in memory of Larry to the Humane Society of Putnam County, P. O. Box 444, Greencastle, IN 46135.

Denis C. Flora

Denis C. Flora, 77, of Plainfield, passed away surrounded by loving family members on Nov. 14, 2023.

He was born on Sept. 16, 1946, in Belen, N.M., to the late Robert and Veda Flora.

Denis was a United States Army veteran who served in the Vietnam War. He received his bachelor’s degree from Indiana State and later went on to pursue his master’s at Purdue University.

Denis was the former owner of D&E Machine and the current owner of Cushman Capers.

He belonged to the Cushman Club of America, Hoosier Cushman Club and Southeastern Cushman Club. Denis enjoyed riding his Cushman motor scooter and making parts to the scooter that are no longer made for public purchasing. He loved being a sheltie dog rescue owner.

He was preceded in death by his sister, Sara Ledgerwood.

Survivors include his loving wife, Jo Flora; son Jeffery Flora; stepdaughter Allison Boehm (Hailey Crosby); sister Carolyn Ledgerwood; brothers David (Bonnie) and Norman Flora; grandchildren Alexa (Jacob) Ayres and Brandon and Jaylen Boehm; and great-grandchildren Ayden and Sebastian Ayres.

Funeral services will be Thursday, Nov. 16 at 1 p.m. at Hampton-Gentry Funeral Home, where friends may visit from 11 a.m. until the time of service at 1 p.m. Burial will follow at Maple Hill Cemetery.

Daryl Lee Staley

Daryl Lee Staley, 78, of Fort Myers, Fla., was called home on Nov. 9, 2023.

He was born to Jean (Hurst) and Stanley Staley on June 22, 1945, in Greencastle.

Daryl was a 1963 graduate of Cloverdale High School. He earned his bachelor’s and master’s degrees in history education from Indiana State University. Upon graduation, he began teaching U.S. history at Owen Valley Middle School, where he spent 40 years teaching and inspiring students. It is also where he met the love of his life, Darla, whom he married on July 22, 1986.

After retiring and leaving their farm in Quincy, Daryl and Darla enjoyed traveling. It didn’t matter whether they were traveling the world or simply on a boat fishing; you would always find Darla and Daryl together. Their relationship is a testament to what true love is.

Daryl was an avid sports fan, often considered a sports encyclopedia by his friends. He brought this love of sports into the classroom and the hearts of his students by coaching boys’ basketball teams, and was one of the inaugural coaches for the Owen Valley football program.

Daryl served his country in the Indiana Army National Guard.

Daryl is survived by his wife, Darla; sister-in-law Pam Staley of Plainfield; nephew Jeff Staley (Jaime) of Mokena, Ill.; niece Mindy Smith (Brett) of Plainfield; and many cherished and loving great nieces, nephews and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his father, mother and brother Gary Staley.

Daryl will be memorialized as part of a living legacy in Eternal Reefs off the coast of Sarasota, Fla., in June 2024 and a celebration of life at Fort Myers Beach.

Memorials may be sent to the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research or the Cape Coral, Fla., animal shelter.

Albert 'Al' C. Simpson

Albert “Al” C. Simpson, 88, of Reelsville, passed away Nov. 14, 2023.

He was born Sept. 9, 1935 in Indianapolis to the late John Simpson and Winnie (Barbee) Bell.

He married Maureen C. Simpson on Sept. 21, 1963, and she preceded him in death Aug. 10, 2014.

Al was a retired truck driver, a member of the Teamsters and a member of the Moose Lodge in Greencastle.

He is survived by his daughters, Cathy (George) Miller of Greencastle and Pamela (Mike) Bowman, several grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

In addition to his wife and parents, he was also preceded in death by daughters Cindy Lou Young and Wendy Sue Simpson and stepson Michael A. Simpson.

Funeral services for Al will be held at 1 p.m. on Monday, Nov. 20 at Whitaker Funeral Home, Cloverdale. Visitation will be from noon until the service time of 1 p.m. at the funeral home.

Condolences may be made at www.whitakerfuneralhome.net.

Howard Miller McMullen

Howard Miller McMullen, 98, passed away peacefully at his home on Tuesday, Nov. 14, 2023.

Howard was born on Dec. 2, 1924, in Montgomery County.

He was preceded in death by his twin sister, Helena, who died on Feb. 23, 1997, father William and mother Eleanor Miller McMullen.

He graduated from Roachdale High School with the class of 1943.

Howard married Frances Kugelman on Aug. 8, 1948, in Indianapolis, and she passed away Nov. 15, 1998. They were married for more than 50 years. He later married Wilene (Hart) on June 9, 2001, at Roachdale Christian Church.

Howard is survived by his wife, Wilene, sons Larry McMullen (Patsy), Ken McMullen (Cheryl) and daughter Carmel Stanley (Dave). He is also survived by grandchildren Brian McMullen (Lisa), Kyle McMullen (Monica), Jill Keller (Wes), Jamie Sanders (Amanda), Nikki Galloway (Doug) and Joni Serowik (Corey). He had 21 great-grandchildren.

Howard was a lifelong farmer and served in World War II in the U.S. Navy, where he was stationed at Port Columbus Naval Air Base at Lambert Field. He served aboard a heavy cruiser ship the USS Rochester. He was a member of the American Legion at Post 72 in Crawfordsville, was a member of the Roachdale Christian Church and drove a school bus for 12 years.

Howard McMullen was adored and beloved and liked to tell a joke or two.

Funeral service will be 1 p.m. Saturday, November 18 at Servies & Morgan Funeral Home, 203 N. Washington St., Ladoga, with Pastor Nate Bryan officiating, military honors by the United State Navy, and Post 72 Honor Guard. Burial will follow in Roachdale Cemetery. Friends may visit with the family from 11 a.m. Saturday until time of service.

You are invited to visit www.serviesmorgan.com where you may leave a condolence or share a memory with the family. Servies & Morgan Funeral Home has been entrusted with the funeral arrangements.

Joyce Elane Lively

Joyce Elaine Lively, 95, Greencastle, passed away on Monday, Nov. 13, 2023 at Asbury Towers Retirement Community in Greencastle.

Joyce was born June 25, 1928 in Lansing, Mich., the daughter of Ernest and Irene (Russell) Dennis. She grew up and spent most of her life in Linton.

She married Paul E. Ball on Feb. 10, 1947 and had two sons, Stephen and James. After Paul passed away, she married George R. Lively on April 3, 1976. Joyce and George continued to live in Linton until moving to Asbury Towers Retirement Community in Greencastle in 2014.

Joyce was a faithful member of Fellowship Baptist Church in Linton and was very active in church activities and church ministry before moving to Greencastle.

She worked at Keller Aluminum Chair in Linton. She also worked in ordnance at USNAD Crane for 20 years until she retired in 1988.

After retirement, she and George loved to travel and spend time with family. She loved to play cards and shop with her sisters and friends.

Joyce will be remembered for the way she took pride in dressing every day, her cooking, her endless shopping trips and the love she had for her family. She was actively involved with her church family and loved to serve the Lord in any way she could.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husbands; three brothers, Bobby Dennis, Gene Dennis and Ronnie Dennis; and three sisters, Betty Dennis, Deloris Sarris and Kay Landis.

She is survived by her two sons, Stephen (Jacinda) Ball of Greencastle and James (Diana) Ball of Geneseo, Ill.; two stepdaughters, Terri Lively of Bedford and Brenda Shirley of Bedford; two grandsons, Alan (Carrie) Ball of Greencastle and Jarod (Michelle) Ball of Port Byron, Ill.; four stepgrandchildren, Sherry (Todd) Rottmann of Zionsville, Tonya (Greg) Cook of Batavia, Ill., Trent (Heaven) Fleener of Trafalgar and David (Ginger) Luttrell of Bedford; 12 great grandchildren; one brother, Don Dennis of Linton; and four sisters, Marilyn Allenbaugh, Melba Gregory and Pat Neff, all of Linton, and Judy Trinkle of Osage Beach, Mo.

Funeral service for Joyce will be held on Saturday, Nov. 18 at 1 p.m. at Welch and Cornett Funeral Home, 140 E. Vincennes St., Linton, with Pastor Terry Dowell officiating. Burial will follow at Fairview Cemetery in Linton.

Visitation will be held on Friday, Nov. 17 from 6-8 p.m. and Saturday from 11 a.m. until the time of service at the funeral home.

Online condolences may be shared with Joyce’s family at www.welchcornett.com.

Joey Jay Thompson

Joey Jay Thompson, known to friends and family as Joe, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, Nov. 15, 2023, in his beloved hometown of Brazil.

Born on March 27, 1959, in the same town, Joe’s life was marked by his intelligence, generosity and analytical mind.

Joe was a proud graduate of Brazil High School in the class of 1977. He furthered his education at Ivy Tech, where he honed his skills and developed his passion for engineering.

Joe’s love for his work was evident in his longstanding career as a paint engineer at Chiyoda in Greencastle, where he served for over 30 years. His dedication, expertise and commitment to his profession were admired by his colleagues and will be remembered by all who had the privilege to work alongside him.

Joe was a man of many interests, each reflecting his personality. He had a deep love for the outdoors and was an avid fisherman. He cherished the peace and tranquility that came with casting a line into the water. Joe also enjoyed riding his side-by-side around his property, taking in the beauty of nature and the serenity of his surroundings.

Joe was a sports enthusiast who loved watching football, basketball and baseball. He was a loyal fan of the Pacers, Cardinals and Colts, and he cherished the opportunity to attend their games whenever he could. His love for sports extended to card games as well, particularly euchre, bridge and Texas Hold ‘em, where his analytical mind shined.

Beyond his hobbies and interests, Joe was a family man with a playful spirit. He loved playing pranks on his children and grandchildren, filling their lives with laughter and joy. His love for his family was deep and unwavering, and his presence will be greatly missed.

In every aspect of his life, Joe exemplified intelligence, generosity and an analytical nature. He was a problem solver, always ready to tackle any challenge that came his way. His generous spirit was evident in his willingness to lend a helping hand to anyone in need. Joe’s intelligence was reflected in his professional life.

Joe’s life was a testament to his love for his family, his dedication to his work and his passion for his hobbies. His memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew him. As we remember Joe, we celebrate a life well lived, marked by kindness, laughter and an unwavering dedication to those he loved. His legacy will continue to inspire those who were fortunate enough to know him.

Joe was preceded in death his parents, Robert D. Thompson and Mary Ellen (Brown) Thompson.

Joe is survived by his wife, Theresa “T.J.” Thompson; two children, Whitney Bartley (Kevin) and Michaela Thompson; grandchildren Layla Bartley and Szalay Bartley; brothers Charles “Jeff” Thompson and Victor J. Thompson; as well as many nieces and nephews.

Cremation services have been entrusted to French Funeral Home, Brazil.

A celebration of life will be held in the spring of 2024.

To post a note of condolence, please visit www.frenchfuneralhome.com.

Terry Lee Zellers

Terry Lee Zellers, 62, of Indianapolis, died Nov. 7, 2023, surrounded by loving family.

Terry was born April 23, 1961, in Vincennes to Leland D. and Shelba Jean (Bailey) Zellers.

His early years were spent in Robinson, Ill., until his family moved to Greencastle as he started kindergarten. Terry graduated from Greencastle High School in 1979 and went on to attend Ball State University.

Since 1996, Terry worked for Wheaton World Wide Moving of Indianapolis. For 27 years he was a valued employee, serving as the company’s safety coordinator.

Terry enjoyed studying architecture and history and had hoped to restore old houses in his retirement. He was especially drawn to the work of Frank Lloyd Wright and visited many of the houses Wright designed. He enjoyed learning and sharing stories about the history of Indianapolis neighborhoods, noted persons and historic structures. The keeper of his family’s genealogy records, Terry could rattle off stories in minute detail about family histories that stretched back generations.

Active participation in charitable organizations was central to Terry’s adult life. A patient at Shriners Hospitals throughout his childhood, Terry generously donated to them in appreciation of what they had done for him and their mission to aid children with birth defects. He was also a founding and active member of the Sovereign Imperial Court of Indiana, a diverse group that welcomes everyone and whose mission is to conduct projects of public service or charitable nature. Terry and his partner, Kevin Densmore, were also supporters of Indiana Youth Group, an organization dedicated to supporting the needs of LGBTQ+ youth in Indiana.

Terry is survived by his parents, Leland and Jean Zellers of Greencastle; his sister, Sheri Roach (Tom) of Greencastle; nephews Alex Roach Beckley (Lindsey) of Franklin and Adam Roach (Amy) of Danville; and great-nieces and –nephews Nora Beckley, Claire and Lillian Roach and Hayden Bilsky of Plainfield and Austin and Jenna Negrete of Lutz, Fla. Terry loved the kids in the family, was generous with gifts and always bought the newborns the largest stuffed animal he could find.

He was preceded in death in 2020 by his partner, Kevin Densmore, whom he described as the love of his life. Also preceding him were life partners Michael Cain in 2015 and Steven Kelso in 1996; his beloved grandparents, Elmer and Dale Bailey of Palestine, Ill., and Golder and Exie Zellers of Annapolis, Ill.; and his uncles, Keith Bailey and Howard Zellers.

Terry’s death was the result of cancer, an illness he kept private for months in the hope he could achieve remission and not have to worry his loved ones. After a brief remission, the cancer returned and rapidly stole him away. Terry’s family deeply appreciates the care he received at Life’s Journey of Avon.

A celebration of life will take place at the Helton & Harris Funeral Home in Danville on Saturday, Nov. 18. Visitation will be from 10 a.m. to noon with the celebration of life at noon.

Terry made all of his end-of-life decisions and chose a green burial out of concern for the earth. His burial will be a private ceremony in Oak Hill Cemetery in Crawfordsville.

Terry requested donations in his memory to Shriners Hospitals at www.lovetotherescue.org and Indiana Youth Group at www.indianayouthgroup.org.

Howard G. Adamson

Howard G. Adamson, 73, of Cahokia, Ill., born Feb. 22, 1950, in Greencastle, died Wednesday, Sept. 20, 2023.

He was a loving husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle and friend.

He graduated from Greencastle High School.

He worked as a farmer his whole life and loved being outdoors.

Howard is survived by his wife of 40 years, Deborah Adamson (nee Portwood); his daughter, Lisa (DJ) O’Neal, and two grandsons, Jayden and Zander O’Neal, all of Cahokia, Ill.; two brothers, Clark (Barb) Adamson and Richard (Cindy) Adamson, both of Indiana; four sisters, Cindy Adamson of Illinois, Mary Adamson of Florida, Bertha (Mike) Jasienski of Iowa and Candy (Jerry) Cox of Indiana; nine nieces and nephews, Heather (Shad) Kent, Bobby Adamson, Cayla (Randy) Summitt, Cassandra (Zach) Gibson, Tasha Adamson, Brittany Adamson, JC Cox, Randall (Stephanie) Cox and Daniel Cox; and 15 great-nieces and -nephews.

Howard was preceded in death by his parents, George and Alice Adamson; a brother, Larry Adamson; a sister, Elsie Adamson; two nieces, Yvette and Stepahnie Adamson; many aunts and uncles; and his grandparents.

In following Howard’s wishes, a private cremation was held. A celebration of life will be held at a later date in Indiana.

Robert J. McClellan

Robert J. McClellan, 94, of Westfield, passed away peacefully on Nov. 5, 2023, surrounded by family.

Bob was born June 22, 1929, in Clayton, the only child of the late Emil and Vesta (Easton) McClellan.

He graduated from Clayton High School in 1947.

Bob served in Korea as a medic in the U.S. Army.

He married Barbara L. Fritsche on June 30, 1956, and she survives him. Bob and Barbara lived in Coatesville and then New Winchester, when Bob began a new career at IBM in Greencastle while continuing to farm part time and tune the occasional piano. Bob retired from IBM in 1987.

Bob was a member of the New Winchester Baptist Church. Bob and Barbara moved to Westfield in 1995 where they attended Grace Community Church and became active in a Bible study group that was an integral part of their faith journey.

Music was an important part of his life. Bob was a talented lifelong musician and still played his trumpet up into his 90s.

He is survived by his loving wife of 67 years, Barbara McClellan; three children, Darrell (Pam) McClellan of Heritage Lake, Donna (David) Heimansohn of Indianapolis and DeAnn (Jack) Diamond of Burbank, Calif.; and nine grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren.

Services will be at 2 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 16 at Flanner Buchanan–Hamilton Memorial Park (Prairie Waters), 4180 Westfield Rd., Westfield. Visitation will be from 2 p.m. until 5 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 15 at the funeral home.

Memorial contributions may be directed to Autism Speaks.

Online condolences may be shared by visiting www.flannerbuchanan.com.

Jerry 'Doc' Fraley

Jerry “Doc” Fraley, age 79, of Cloverdale, passed away Oct. 30, 2023.

He was born Sept. 22, 1944, in Greensburg, Ky., to the late Charles E. and Opal T. (Parnell) Fraley.

He worked for Carrier in Indianapolis for many years until his retirement.

He is survived by his daughters, Andrea and Debbie, and his grandchildren. Also his cousins and caretakers, Josh Bright and his wife Dawn and Marilyn Blakehorn. He is also survived by his patrons of the Red Roof Inn.

A celebration of life will be held Saturday, Nov. 18 from 12 p.m. until 4 p.m. at the Red Roof Inn, 924 N. Main St., Cloverdale, IN 46120.

Condolences may be made at www.whitakerfuneralhome.net.

Catherine L. Miller

Catherine L. Miller, 88, passed away on Friday, Nov. 3, 2023.

She was born in Terre Haute on July 20, 1935, to James Noah Snow and Goldie (Creal) Snow.

She married Floyd K Miller on Aug. 21, 1955, and they were married for 50 years.

She is survived by her son, Mark (Lori); daughter Cathleen; granddaughters Lindsey (Brian) McClanathan, Leslie Miller, Lorissa Miller and Caitlyn Miller (fiancé Alex); grandsons Landon Miller and Evan Miller (Rita); great-grandchildren Avery and Owen McClanathan, Patrick Miller, Gideon Miller and Ximaena Emond; a sister, Mary Engberg; and brother Charles Snow. She taught us to love God, life live to the best of our ability and love others.

Catherine was preceded in death by her parents, husband, sister and brother.

She was a loving wife, mother, and grandmother, and served with Floyd in ministry for 30 years at Union Christian Church and 15 years at the Cloverdale Christian Church. She was a longtime volunteer for the Care Net Pregnancy Center of Putnam County. Her many interests included enjoying her family, music, cooking and being a loving friend to so many people. After ministry in churches and retirement from the Vigo County School Corporation, Catherine and Floyd attended Alaska Christian Church, and she continued to play the piano for worship services after his death. In the last few years, she attended Staunton First Christian Church.

Visitation is scheduled for Saturday, Nov. 11 from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. at the Staunton First Christian Church, 108 W. Columbus St., Staunton, IN 47881. Service will begin at 1 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to Care Net Pregnancy Center of Putnam County. 1224 S. Bloomington St., Greencastle, IN 46135.

Keneen Rae Strain

Keneen Rae Strain, 84, of Indianapolis, passed away on Oct. 31, 2023.

She was born in Poland to the late Kenneth and Rosemary (Parrish) Bullerdick.

Keneen was a loving wife, mother and grandmother and will be missed by all.

Keneen was a dedicated mother, taking her children to dance lessons, music lessons, Scouts and sports practices. She was also a member of Ben Davis Christian Church and a member of the ladies’ circle.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband Donald Strain; son Darrin Strain; and brothers Mike Bullerdick, Doug Bullerdick, Steve Bullerdick and Kerry Bullerdick.

She is survived by her daughter, Donna (Mike) Anderson; sisters Sharyl (Keith) Berry and Vicki (Bob) Barger; grandsons Joshua Anderson, Ben (Melaina) Anderson, Isaac (Larri) Anderson and Tim (Kyrsten) Anderson; and her great-grandchildren.

Visitation will be 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 9 with funeral service at 1 p.m. at Flanner Buchanan-Speedway at 2950 N. High School Rd. in Indianapolis. Graveside service to follow at West Ridge Park Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to the Alzheimer’s Association at alz.org.

Priscilla L. Adams

Priscilla L. Adams, 97, of Greencastle, passed away on Wednesday, Nov. 1, 2023, at Mill Pond Health Campus.

Priscilla was born in Delaware County on Nov. 6, 1925, the daughter of Frank and Opal (Abshire) Lee, and was a graduate of Harrison Township High School.

She married the love of her life, Robert E. Adams, on Jan. 19, 1944.

Mrs. Adams attended the First Baptist Church and was a part of its Bible study group. She was a member of Merry J’s Homemakers Club.

Priscilla worked for the Greencastle School Corporation for 17 years. She was also a homemaker, an excellent cook and an avid reader.

Survivors include her four sons, Alan Adams (Karen) of Muncie, Gary Adams (Jane) of Alexandria, Marc Adams of Greencastle and Jeff Adams (Donna) of Indianapolis; seven grandchildren; 10 great-grandchildren; two sisters-in-law, Barbara Lee Wapaketa of Ohio and Marie Lee of Indianapolis; and several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband of 57 years; a son, Greg Adams; and three brothers, Paul, Norris and Wayne Lee.

Visitation will be held from 4 p.m. until 7 p.m. on Wednesday, Nov. 8 at Hopkins-Rector Funeral Home. Graveside services will be held 1 p.m. on Thursday, Nov. 9 at Jones Cemetery in Yorktown.

Memorial contributions may be directed to Putnam County Comprehensive Services (PCCS), 630 Tennessee St., Greencastle, IN 46135.

Memories may be shared with the family at www.Hopkins-Rector.com.

Jack Martin Romer

Jack Martin Romer was born in Greencastle, IN on a Monday, March 27, 2000. He was the only son to his mother and father, Martin and Colleen (Kellie) Romer. He was a 2018 graduate of Greencastle High School and 2022 magna cum laude graduate of Indiana University, Kelley School of Business.

He was employed by Deloitte as a multi-state tax accountant and consultant in Charlotte, North Carolina. His goal was to obtain his CPA by age 25. Jack was incredibly goal-oriented and passionate about his interests and academics. He liked to play hard and work hard. He loved learning new things, school, animals, hiking, live music venues, comedy clubs, and his wonderful friends from Greencastle and IU.

Jack is survived by his older sisters, Haylie and Corrie, whom he adored. His grandmother, Sandra Clay, with whom he shared a gift of gab and love for great food and dining out. His father, Marty, for whom he had a deep admiration and respect. His mother, Kellie, with whom he had a deep connection and was his first best friend.

He was preceded in death by his grandfather, Cletus Romer, his grandmother, Mary Romer, and his grandfather, Larry Clay.

Visitation will be held from 9-11 a.m. on Monday, Nov. 6th at St. Paul’s Catholic Church narthex in Greencastle. A funeral Mass will follow at 11 a.m. with the Catholic Rite of Committal at Forest Hill Cemetery in Greencastle.

In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to the Putnam County Humane Society at 4700 E. SR 240, Greencastle, IN 46135.

Memories and condolences may be shared with the family at www.BittlesandHurt.com

John E. Wallace Sr.

John E. Wallace Sr., 68, passed away on Wednesday, Oct. 25, 2023, following an extended illness.

He was born on Oct. 8, 1955, in Clinton to LeRoy Wallace and Bonnie Helton.

John worked for the Banner and News for many years.

He loved being around people, never met a stranger and was loved by many. John was an avid bowler, loved watching NASCAR and love to play bingo. John was also in the National Guard.

John is survived by his children, John Wallace Jr., Dawn Wallace, Josie Cox (husband Austin), Naomi Phillips, Michael Phillips (wife Danielle) and Nathan Phillips (wife Vivian); grandchildren Tamara, Trinity, Lillian, Jonathan, Ryan, Emalie and Damian; and also several great-grandchildren and several nephews. John is also survived by his best friend, Tammy Torrence Petrey, who loved him dearly. John is also survived by sisters Kathy Wallace and Penny Hill (husband Jim) and brothers Ron Wallace (wife Karen), Charlie Wallace (wife Lupe) and James Wallace (Annette).

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brothers, Mike Wallace and Tim Wallace.

Services will be private.

Kristie Anne Hopkins

Kristie Anne Hopkins, 76, of Stilesville, passed away on Monday, Oct. 30, 2023, peacefully with her family by her side.

She was born in Putnam County on Dec. 13, 1946, to James and Wanda (McCammack) Ray.

She was the last class to graduate from Stilesville High School in 1964 before it became Cascade High School.

Many will remember Kristie from First Citizens Bank in Greencastle, where she worked for 25 years. From there she went on to finish her career with York Automotive in Greencastle for 25 years until her retirement in 2013.

She enjoyed her family, working on her craft projects, reading and decorating her home for every holiday. She loved animals and supported local animal shelters.

Saddened by their loss, but will cherish her memory, are her son, Jay Hopkins and wife Jackie of Greencastle; three grandsons, Tyler Hopkins of Greencastle, Benjamin (Sarai) McAllister of Spanaway, Wash., and Tommy (Ashley) McAllister of Fillmore; and great-grandchildren Atlas, Landon, Benjamincito, Teddy, Liam and Nash. Also surviving are her sister and best friend, Karen Simmons of Stilesville; nephew Mike (Liz) Simmons of Park City, Utah; niece Mindy (Duane) Higgins of Franklin, Tenn.; and great-nieces and -nephews Christopher, Savannah, Sean, Parker, Anna and Cameron.

In order to honor Kristie’s wishes, private graveside services will be held at the Stilesville Cemetery with Pastor and friend Joel Everson officiating.

Hopkins-Rector Funeral Home has been entrusted with the arrangements.

Memorial contributions may be made in memory of Kristie to the Stilesville Cemetery Association, 3944 W. CR 900 South, Stilesville, IN 46180, or the Humane Society of Putnam County, P.O. Box 444, Greencastle, IN. 46135.

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