Scott-Clark-Washington County Herald Newspapers - Obituaries for 4-9-25

Roxie Fern Minns, 93, of Charlestown, IN, passed away on Fri., March 28, 2025, at Maple Manor Christian Home in Sellersburg, IN.

She was born on January 24, 1932, in Whitesburg, KY, to Dave and Verna Hogg Jones.

Roxie was a retired schoolteacher for Greater Clark County Schools. She was preceded in death by her husband, Harold Minns. Before Harold's death, they traveled extensively, visiting every state except Alaska and Hawaii. Roxie was a graduate of Berea College, enjoyed doing crossword puzzles, and watching Jeopardy and Wheel of Fortune every night. She enjoyed watching wildlife and feeding birds out her back window.

Survivors include her brothers-in-law, Jack Minns of Charlestown and Ed Minns, and neighbors, Rob and Cheryl Blackwell of Charlestown.

Cremation was chosen, and a Graveside Service was held on Tues., April 8, 2025, at Charlestown Cemetery.

Gretta J. West, 80, of Borden, passed away on Saturday, March 29, 2025.

Born August 16, 1944, she was the daughter of Clarence and Zada Britton.

Survivors include her two sons, Gordon West and Gregory West; two daughters-in-law, Anna (Means) West, and Dr. Fiona (Allen) West; five grandchildren: Pamela, Zada, Cera, Ashlee, and Gene; one step-grandson, Mathew; one brother, Herbert Britton; and two sisters, Marla Wadsworth and Sara Bellamy.

Gretta was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, CWO3 Gene West, and her brother, David Britton.

The Family would like to thank the Baptist Health Floyd ICU nursing staff and Amedisys' hospice care team for their love and care.

No services were planned. Scott Funeral Home of Jeffersonville was entrusted with funeral care.

Bonnie J. Ryan, 95, of Sellersburg, Indiana passed away on Thur., March 27, 2025 with her beloved grandchildren at her side.

Bonnie was born in New Albany, Indiana on May 22, 1929 to the late Ralph and Irma Staser Jenkins and was a graduate of New Albany High School class of 1947. She was a member of Eastside Christian Church.

Bonnie retired in 1989 from Bell South with over 43 years of service. After retirement, she dedicated her time volunteering at The Center for Lay Ministries in Jeffersonville where they named the food pantry "Bonnie's Food Pantry" in honor of her service. Bonnie also volunteered at the New Albany Police Department, the Salvation Army, Red Cross, Center for Women's and Families and Eastside Christian Church.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Joseph E. Ryan; a daughter, Jayne M. Ryan; and siblings, Peggy Flowers, Ralph Jenkins, Dorothy Kennedy, Rosalee Zentmyer and Ronnie Jenkins.

Bonnie is survived by two grandchildren, Ben Haws (Ashley) and Hayley Ryan Garmon (Luke); one great grandson, Brexton Haws; and a sister-in-law, Dolly Jenkins.

Her funeral service was held on Thur., April 3 at

Kraft Funeral Service, 2776 Charlestown Road, New Albany, Indiana 47150 with burial following in Kraft Graceland Memorial Park.

Expressions of sympathy are suggested to the Center for Lay Ministries.

Aaron Cortez May, 33, of Louisville, Kentucky passed away after a tragic motorcycle accident on March 28, 2025.

He was born on May 26, 1991, in Jefferson county, Kentucky.

He was adopted by Melissa and Eric May. Sharon Cowherd, his birth mother, continued to stay in his life along with his birth family.

Aaron grew up in Charlestown, Indiana, where he was a graduate of CHS. He excelled in sports: football, wrestling and track and field. He and his teammates still hold the 4x100 record. Aaron worked as a professional piercer for Tatu in the Saint Matthews Mall. Aaron was known to live life outside of the box and with no regrets. He was extremely creative and had a love for tattoos, piercings, music and fashion. He had a personality like no other. People were naturally drawn to him. His smile was genuinely contagious and you couldn’t help but to be happy to be in his presence. He lit up each room he was in and was the life of the party, although he was probably late to it. Aaron was the best dad to his girls. He loved them beyond words and you could tell from the way he would let them dress him up with make-up and tutus or riding the skate boards up and down the alley with them. He was attentive, patient, encouraging, and most of all loving.

Aaron is survived by many and was blessed with an adoptive family and wonderful birth-family who was very active in his life. His baby girls: Zariya and Wed. May, his father, Eric May (Kris), his mother, Melissa May, birth mother, Sharon Cowherd, brothers Tom Ledbetter, Antoine Allen, Anthony Allen, An-twan Allen, Michael Baines JR, Noah Baines, Landon Scott, sisters; Abbony Cowherd, Jordan Grant (Jon Grant), Kassidy Wilson(Matthew Wilson), Ciera May (Evan Mckune), Karleigh May, Grandparents; David “Papaw” Zollman, Lois Jenkins, and many aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by: Great-grandfather Kenneth Eaglin “Poppy”(Wyoma), his grandmothers, Tanya “Mamaw” Zollman, Edna “MoMo” Scott, and Jessie Scott, grandfather Charles Scott “Po”, aunts Connie Heart and Sheila Durham, cousins Jason Craven and Andrew Fraze, best friend/brother Justin Miller.

A Celebration of Life was held on Sunday, April 6 at The Venro Venue, 934 Main Street Charlestown, IN, 47111.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to a GoFundMe page to help with expenses and to set up a trust for Zariya and Wed..

Eldon Hurst met Jesus face to face and was welcomed home to heaven on Fri., March 28, 2025.

Eldon was a member of Daisy Hill United Methodist Church, and he loved working on small engines, was a skilled woodworker, and, after his wife passed, found a best friend in his dog Coal.

Eldon was born on May 30, 1943, to Tom and Ruth Hurst and lived most of his life in Borden, Indiana. He and his siblings were raised on his parents’ farm, often spending summers picking strawberries and riding his bicycle. Eldon began working at his brother’s garage as a teenager and noticed Roseann McKinley, and the two dated and decided to marry. A year later, they welcomed a daughter, Lori Ann, and then a son, Richard Dale.

In 1974, Eldon and Roseann lost their home to the April 3rd tornadoes, but they rebuilt their home with a legacy rooted in hard work, faith, and a bit of stubbornness. They enjoyed 57 years of marriage until Roseann beat him Home in 2018.

Eldon was typically quiet in a roomful of people, but those who knew him best listened when he decided to speak. He could fix anything, and if he wasn’t sure how, he’d certainly make something up and “fiddle with it” until he was successful. He loved a good game of euchre and piddling around in the garage after he retired.

Eldon was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Tommy, Wayne, Glen, Noble, and Randy Hurst; sister, Virginia Burns; daughter, Lori Ann Klein; and daughter-in-law, Mattie Hurst. Without a doubt, Eldon triumphantly entered the embrace of Jesus, celebrating a glorious reunion with his loved ones who had gone before.

Eldon is survived by his sister, Beulah Boling; brother, David (Trudy) Hurst; son, Richard Hurst; son in law, David Klein; five grandchildren; and twelve great-grandchildren.

His funeral service was held on Fri., April 4 at Newcomer Cremations, Funerals & Receptions (3309 Ballard Lane, New Albany) with burial following at Daisy Hill United Methodist Church Cemetery in Borden.

Sandra L. “Sandy” Bayes, 85, of Marysville, IN, passed away peacefully on Sunday, March 30, 2025.

She was born on November 4, 1939, in Scottsburg, IN, to the late Luther and Juna Bussey Campbell.

Sandy was known for her outgoing nature and her ability to connect with others. She enjoyed the success of in-home party sales, where she sold Tupperware, Shaklee vitamins, House of Lloyd products, Christmas Around the World items, and Avon cosmetics. Throughout her years in sales, Sandy formed many lasting friendships, and she enjoyed regular lunch gatherings with her friends.

Sandy enjoyed traveling. She and her husband, Duane, loved going on family cruises and were able to visit several different countries, creating cherished memories together. She was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend; her warm spirit will be deeply missed by all.

Sandy is survived by her loving husband, Duane; sons, Jeff Bayes (Marlene) and Rodney Bayes (Donna); her brother, Clyde Campbell (Nora); grandchildren, Lyndsay Seaton (Abel Urias), Brent Walker (Katie), Sasha Austin (Jason), Jordan Bayes (Aya Johnson), and Shawnee Harrigan (Shaughn); great-grandchildren, Landon, Jillian, Kylie, Lyla, Freya, Beckham, and Dawson, with a new addition arriving soon; and her beloved fur baby, Alex.

Life Celebration Services were held at 3:30 p.m. on Tuesday, April 8, 2025, at Grayson Funeral Home in Charlestown.

Timothy L. Meredith, 59, passed away on Monday, March 31, 2025, at Baptist Health in Louisville, KY.

He was born on January 30, 1966, to Marchman and Barbara Dean Meredith in New Albany, IN.

Tim worked as a forklift driver, a veteran of the United States Army, and a member of the Indiana National Guard. He was always on the move, whether riding his motorcycle, boating on the lake, or just at home watching Jeff Gordon win a NASCAR race. Tim was a gun enthusiast, collected military model airplanes, went to Air Shows, and still spit-shined his boots to make them shine. Tim loved the American Flag and the military. He spent his television watching time enjoying black and white westerns, Gunsmoke, and John Wayne westerns, and laughing at a good ol' cartoon.

Tim was preceded in death by his father, Marchman L. Meredith, his daughter, April Meredith, and his nephew, Jared Vest.

Left to honor his memory are his mother, Barbara, sisters, Lona Jaggers and husband Jim of Henryville, and Tammy Kendall of Sellersburg; nephews, Steven Vest, and Tyler Kendall; niece, Jorden Kendall; great niece, Peyton Vest; great nephews, Ethan Vest, and Dillan Vest.

Life Celebration Services were held on Monday, April 7, 2025, at Grayson Funeral Home, with burial to follow at the Indiana Veteran Memorial Cemetery in Madison, IN.

Mildred Dora Young, 100, of New Albany, IN. passed away on Tuesday, April 1, 2025.

She was born in Owen County, KY, on August 16, 1924, to Arbra Samuel and Harriett Mefford Smith.

Mildred was a homemaker, a member of Bethany Christian Church in Charlestown, she enjoyed raising flower and vegetable gardens. She also liked to sew, crochet, quilt, and cook everyone their favorite dish when she knew they were coming for a visit. Her late husband, Roy Sr., always had a home-cooked breakfast to start his day.

Mildred was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, Roy Young Sr., and her sons, Roy ‘Mack’ Young Jr., Ricky S. Young, and William ‘Billy’ S. Young.

She is survived by her daughters Judy Simpson and Margaret A. Robertson, both of Jeffersonville, IN, and her sons Gary Young and wife Lynn, Tony Dale Young, and Travis Young and wife Danielle, all of Jeffersonville, IN. Mildred was blessed with a large extended family of grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren who will all cherish their memories of her.

Life Celebration Services were held on Saturday, April 5, 2025, at Grayson Funeral Home in Charlestown, with burial following at New Chapel Cemetery in Jeffersonville, IN.

Robert Stephen Bowen, 76, of Jeffersonville, Indiana, passed away peacefully on April 1, 2025, in the presence of his family and caring nurses at Norton Women’s and Children’s Hospital in Louisville, Kentucky.

Bob was born on June 17, 1948, to John K. and Marjorie Bowen in Charlestown, Indiana. Bob was a loving, devoted husband, brother, father, grandfather, and uncle.

Bob married the love of his life, Sandra, on December 21, 1974. Over the course of 50 years of marriage, they raised two sons, John and Stephen, and he was blessed to be a proud grandfather to his grandson Grant. Bob was an alumnus of Charlestown High School (Class of 1966) and Purdue University. Boiler Up and Hammer Down! He was also a proud supporter of youth athletics in Charlestown, where he was privileged to impact on the lives of many young athletes as a coach and mentor through the Charlestown Little League and youth basketball leagues, where he hoped to have inspired a love of the game in all his players. During his tenure with the Charlestown Little League, he was also proud to be a founding member of the “bucket brigade.”

Bob spent over 40 years in the service of the Indiana Department of Transportation in the Seymour District office, where he forged many friendships and positively impacted the maintenance and operations of the transportation network in the Seymour District.

Bob is survived by his loving wife, Sandra, sons John (Alisa) Bowen and Stephen Bowen, and grandson Grant Bowen. He is also survived by his siblings Susanne Williams and her children Robert, Stephanie, Debra, and Laura; Tom Bowen and his children Sara and Michael; Marjorie “Wink” Bowen; and sister-in-law Gale (Tom) Murray and their son Kyle.

He is also survived by Stephen’s partner Robin and her children, Aydan, Dylan, and Bowie. He will be dearly missed by all his family, friends, and especially his furry friend Winnie.

Life Celebration Services will be held at 2 p.m. on Wednesday, April 9, 2025, at Grayson Funeral Home in Charlestown. Burial will follow at Charlestown Cemetery. Visitation will be held from 11 a.m. until 2 p.m. on Wednesday, also at the funeral home.

John “Frank” Shuck, 86, of Lenoir City, TN, formerly of Charlestown, IN, passed away peacefully at his home on Monday, March 31, 2025.

Frank was born on January 24, 1939 in Corydon, IN to Huber Ellis Shuck and Bonnie Thompson Shuck. He graduated from Charlestown High school in 1957 and lived locally for most of his life before relocating to Tennessee.

Frank was a retired pipefitter from UA Local 502 Plumbers and Pipefitters Union. He was a dual member of the Mason Falls Lodge in Clarksville, IN, and the Avery Lodge in Lenoir City, TN, earning the Sublime Degree of Master Mason. Recently, he received his pin honoring fifty years of faithful service to the Ancient and Honorable Fraternity of Free and Accepted Masons.

Survived by his wife, Anita Disponett Shuck, daughter, Renee Shuck Crawford (Richard), 5 grandchildren, and 7 great grandchildren, as well as 4 step-children and their families.

In addition to his parents, Frank is preceded in death by his wife of 46 years, Phyllis Hubbard Shuck, his sons Randall and Eric, and his siblings Thomas Shuck, Anna Mae Flora, Joyce Ballard, June Marie Vogt, and Faye Linn Thomas.

His funeral service was held on Friday, April 4, 2025 at Scott Funeral Home in Jeffersonville, IN with entombment following at Walnut Ridge Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Shriners Club.

Cheryl Sue Mooney, 79, of Charlestown, Indiana, formerly of Lynnville, Indiana, passed away peacefully, Friday, March 28, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of compassion, dedication, and love.

Born in Lynnville, Indiana, to the late Prentice and Leta Barker, Cheryl’s life was marked by an unwavering commitment to caring for others. As a registered nurse, she found her true calling, a profession that was not just a career but a reflection of her heart. Her meticulous attention to detail and deep empathy made her an exceptional caregiver, touching the lives of countless patients and their families.

Beyond her work, Cheryl was a woman of many passions. A voracious reader, she found solace and adventure within the pages of her favorite books. She had a special place in her heart for animals, cherishing their companionship and the joy they brought into her life.

Cheryl is survived by her beloved daughter, Melissa Mooney of Largo, Florida; her siblings, Bob Barker of Evansville, Indiana, Jan Yager of Lynnville, Indiana, Peggy Ashby of Apple Valley, California, Sandra Heathcock of Chicago, Illinois, and Keith Barker of Corydon, Indiana. She also leaves behind her cherished nieces, Sue Nix and Lora Nix, both of Jeffersonville, Indiana, whose love and presence enriched her life.

Honoring her wishes, cremation was chosen, and Scott Funeral Home, 2515 Veterans Parkway, has been entrusted with arrangements. Cheryl’s memory will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved her.

Curtis Richard Howard, 76, of Sellersburg, Indiana, passed away on Monday, March 31, 2025.

He was born to the late William C. Howard and Hilda (Brown) Howard on October 2, 1948. He married the love of his life, Linda M.(Bolton) Howard, on November 2, 1968. Richard proudly served his country in the United States Navy. He retired from Phillip Morris after 31 years of service.

In his spare time, Richard enjoyed hunting, fishing, and bowling. He also loved to take the family on fun camping trips. Richard was a faithful member of the Calvary Road Baptist Church in New Albany, where he enjoyed taking care of the lawn.

Along with his parents, Richard is preceded in death by his two sisters, Teri Howard and Crystal Quick.

He leaves behind his loving wife of 56 years, Linda M. Howard; his children, Julie Howard and Curtis W. Howard (Ellen); two grandchildren, Crosby Howard and Victoria Howard; seven brothers, Tim Howard, Tony Howard, Joe Howard, Dominic Howard, Matt Howard, Peter Howard, and Michael Howard; and several nieces and nephews.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, April 9, 2025, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., with a funeral service following at 1 p.m. at Kraft Funeral Service, 2776 Charlestown Road, New Albany, Indiana.

Contributions in Richard's memory may be made to Calvary Road Baptist Church, 3795 St. Joseph Road, New Albany, Indiana, 47150.

America Jane Cravens passed away peacefully on March 22, 2025.

She was born America Jane Spicer on October 1, 1940, to Virgil Spicer and Susie (Neace) Spicer in Gays Creek, Ky. She lived her life there and in Hamilton, Ohio before moving with her family to Austin, Indiana where she attended school. Jane then married the love of her life, Paul Edward Cravens in 1955 and had daughters Tena, Gina, and Teresa. Later, Jane attended House of James Beauty College with her lifelong best friend, Jan Palmer. Upon graduating, she opened her own shop, America’s Styling Salon.

A few years later, she and Paul opened and for several years operated the well-known, Cravens Tire Mart. Later, when the opportunity arose, Jane, along with her daughter Tena, and then son-in-law; Ronnie, developed the subdivision -Spindlewicke Estates. Her final venture was spending time at their family business in New Albany ….The Grand.

Along the way, Jane loved shopping at antique malls and flea markets and would sell those treasures at her shop, co-owned with Carlyn Robison Fields known as Main St. Manor.

Jane was dedicated to her family and loved being a Mom and Mamaw. She took great pleasure in helping with each grandchild and was very proud of each of them. America Jane also took a lot of pride in her name …and loved telling people she was named after both of her grandmothers, who made her childhood so special and instilled her strong faith in God. Grandmothers, America Cole Neace and Jane Spicer were both instrumental in teaching her the importance of being a loving influence in the lives of others.

Jane was preceded in death by her parents, former husband; Paul Cravens, infant son; Paul David, daughter; Teresa Trulock, sister; Jean Campbell-Gose and brother; Bert Spicer.

She leaves behind her two daughters; Tena Cravens ( Duane Walker) and Gina Powell (Donnie), her sister; Jerry Francis-Renner, son-in-law; Mike Trulock and five granddaughters -Monique Everitt Bruce, Nicole Edwards Swank (Kasey), Shannon Mount Davis (Chris), Krystal Mount Greenwell, Aimee Trulock Roman (Justin) and grandson-in-law; David Bruce.

She will also be missed by her 12 great-grandchildren; Dawson (Kara Jermont), Parker and Zander Bruce, Brooks and Cason Swank, Allison & Hailey Davis, Preston Greenwell and Aiden, Addyson and Avery Roman.

She also leaves behind her two great-great grandchildren, and twin babies - Atlas Alan Andrew & Mila Monet Bruce.

Jane loved her family dearly, and they brought her the greatest joy in her life. However, her family and friends consider themselves blessed to have had such a loving, caring person in their lives.

Funeral services was conducted on Sunday, March 30, 2025 at Adams Family Funeral Homes & Crematory Scottsburg with a burial to follow at Zoah Cemetery. Family and friends visited until the time of the service on the same day.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Zoah Cemetery of Zoah Christian Church c/o Adams Family Funeral Homes and Crematory, 138 Westavia Boulevard, Scottsburg, IN 47170.

Betty Jo Williams Northern, 86, of Lexington, Indiana entered this life on December 10, 1938 in Daisy, Kentucky. She was the loving daughter of the late Andy and Effie West Williams. She moved to Jefferson County in 1963. Betty married John Northern on May 30, l963 in Madison, Indiana. This marriage was blessed to raise eight children, Larry, Roger, Richard, Rick, Anthony, John Jr., Deborah and Angela. She was a certified nursing assistant at the Waters of Clifty Falls in Madison, Indiana. Betty was a member of the Open Door Baptist Church in Deputy, Indiana. She loved going to church, reading, sewing, flowers, gardening and family. She enjoyed cooking her favorite chicken and dumplings and her orange slice cake and both will be missed at the church and family gatherings. Betty enjoyed her three dogs, Daisy, Cali, and Penny. Betty died on Thursday, March 27, 2025, at 9:26 a.m. at the Waters of Clifty Falls in Madison, Indiana.

Betty will be missed by her loving sons, Roger Northern and his wife Gay of Kent, Indiana, Richard “Buck” Northern and his wife Rita of Paris Crossing, Indiana, Rick Mitchell and his wife Judy, Anthony Mitchell of Henryville, Indiana, John Northern, Jr. and his companion Stacey Moscoe of Madison, Indiana; her loving daughters, Deborah Masterson and her husband Dennis of Madison, Indiana, Angela Northern of Lexington, Indiana; her daughter-in-law, Donna Northern of Madison, Indiana; 12 grandchildren; 14 great-grandchildren; her brother, Herman Williams and his wife, Betty of Chula Vista, California; several nieces, nephews and other relatives. She was preceded in death by her father, Andy Williams, her mother, Effie West Williams, her sisters, Jewell Rowlett, Patsy Grimes, her brother, Stanley Williams, her husband of 53 years, John Northern, Sr., died January 31, 2017; her son, Larry Wayne Northern, Sr., died January 7, 2021, her brother, Mike Williams.

Funeral services were conducted Monday, March 31, 2025, by Pastor Brad Enevoldsen at the Morgan & Nay Funeral Centre, 325 Demaree Drive in Madison, Indiana. Interment will follow in the Wesley Chapel Cemetery near Austin, Indiana

Memorial contributions may be made to the Open Door Baptist Church. Cards are available at the Morgan & Nay Funeral Centres of Madison and Hanover. Online condolences, remembrances, and memorials can be left at www.morgan-nay.com

Elaine Kay Pritchard, 70, passed away on March 27, 2025, in Scottsburg, Indiana.

She was born on December 28, 1954, in Ridgecrest, California, to the late L.T. and Adelle (Gallamore) Case. Elaine moved to Holbrook, Arizona, in 2003, and enjoyed a fulfilling career as a Head Start Teacher until her retirement in 2013. Elaine held a deep passion for music and enjoyed listening to multiple genres of music, with Rod Stewart and Snoop Dog being among her most favored artists.

Elaine cherished her relationships with all her nieces and nephews, and she valued the time spent with all her friends and family. She is preceded in death by her parents, L.T. and Adelle Case; a brother, Donn Case; a brother-in-law, Rodney Rupp and a nephew, Blake Case. Elaine is survived by her two children, Kimberli Case, of Tipton, Indiana and Chad (Lindsay) Case, of Scottsburg, Indiana; a sister, Darlene Rupp, of Bullhead City, Arizona; a sister-in-law, Laurene Case, of Fountain Valley, California; four grandchildren, Violet Case, of Jeffersonville, Indiana, Matthew Case, of Sellersburg, Indiana, Ivy Case, of Scottsburg, Indiana and Katarina Case-Baez, of Tipton, Indiana.

Cremation was entrusted to Collins Funeral Home in Scottsburg, Indiana.

Memorial donations can be made to Go Fund Me in c/o Kimberli Case. Online condolences and additional information can be found at www.collinsfuneralhome.net.

John Wayne Bailey, 66 of Lexington, Indiana passed away Friday, March 28, 2025. He was born November 15, 1958, in Madison, Indiana to Carl and Lena Spencer Bailey. He graduated from Scottsburg High School. John married Rita Mae Spaulding, the love of his life on May 16, 1992, and she preceded him in death on August 30, 2022. He worked at Jeff Boat for several years until taking a position with Heidelburg Materials as a heavy equipment operator until his retirement in July 2024. John is preceded in death by his parents, his wife, Rita Mae and his sister, Wilma Richey. Surviving to cherish his memories are his brother, Richard (Deanna) Bailey of Indianapolis; and his sisters, Barbara Robbins of Austin, Indiana, Shirley Ball of Jeffersonville, Indiana and Joy (Mark) Spencer of Sellersburg, Indiana; as well as many friends, nieces and nephews.

He was laid to rest next to his wife, Rita, on Wednesday, April 2, 2025, at a Graveside Memorial Service at Scottsburg Cemetery.In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to any cancer request foundation in John's memory. Please share memories and condolences at www.collinsfuneralhome.net.

GEORGE HENRY RICHERT, 92, Salem, passed away peacefully at his residence on Wednesday, March 26th, 2025.

Born on July 27, 1932 in Elizabeth, Indiana, George was the eldest son of the late Ora W. and Mary Elizabeth (Foreman) Richert.

Formerly of Harrison County, he was a 1951 graduate of Elizabeth High School and a resident of Washington County since 1957. George proudly retired from Pillsbury Company in 1989 after being employed there for 28 years. Additionally, he made a great life farming the family grounds for over 68 years, raising cattle, buffalo, and tobacco crops, to name a few. He will be remembered as a hardworking outdoorsman who loved to hunt, travel, and he enjoyed auctions of all kinds. 

George was a founding, former member of the Faith Lutheran Church in Salem, and more recently attended the New Salem First Church of God. Working his way though the ranks, he was proud of his accomplishments which started as a Cub Scout, then Boy Scout, onto Sea Scout, all while in Michigan, as well as serving as the Scoutmaster for St. John’s Lutheran Church in Lanesville, IN. 

George was married on September 22, 1951; a wonderful 67 ½ years of marriage together with his wife, Sylvia Faye (Stewart) Richert, who departed him in death on April 24, 2019. 

George’s humble legacy leaves behind 6 children, 4 daughters: Beverly D. (Mark) Shepherd of Salem, Brenda L. (Russ) Uphold of Louisville, KY, Valerie L. Simpson of Salem, and Dr. Judith R. Richert (Steven Brady) of Salem; 2 sons: Bradley W. Richert of Salem, and Terry D. Richart (Michelle Alexander) of Monroeville, IN, 1 brother: Roy “Roger” Richert, and 2 sisters: Patricia S. Larabee and Claudia K. Holmes. George is also survived by: 17 grandchildren, 28 great-grandchildren, and 12 great-great-grandchildren. 

He was preceded in death by his parents. 2 brothers: Dale G. Richert and Ora W. Richert Jr. “Boots” and 1 granddaughter: Rochelle.

Funeral services were Thursday, April 3 at Weathers Funeral Home. Burial followed in Beech Grove Cemetery.

Memorial contributions can be made in his honor to: New Salem First Church of God or the Beech Grove Cemetery Association.

LEONARD “SONNY” MAXWELL JR., 75, Salem, passed away peacefully at Baptist Floyd New Albany on Friday, March 28, 2025.

Born on August 30, 1949 in Kentucky.

Sonny retired from Brown Forman. He was a member of the Marshall Avenue Church in Salem. He was an Air Force Veteran in Vietnam. Sonny was a Chaplain of the American Legion Lodge, participated in Jail Ministry,was a street evangelist, and volunteered at the Warming Station.

He married Laquitta Lewellyn on November 02, 2013, who survives.

He leaves behind one son Leonard Maxwell III (Shauna) of Pekin, two daughters, Odessa Fulks (Charlie) of West Virginia, and Andrea Hargis (Shane) of Salem and seven grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by three sisters and one grandchild.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held at a later date.

PAMELA M. TRAINOR, 64, of Pekin, on Wednesday, April 2, 2025.  Born January 13, 1961, she was the daughter of the late Eugene and Bobbie Jean Cosby.  On January 30, 1981, she married Jeff Trainor, who survives.

Pamela was a teacher’s aid at East Washington Middle School.

Pamela is survived by her husband, Jeff; her 3 children: Luke Trainor (Melinda), Trevor Trainor (Megan Fordyce), and Jed Trainor; a brother, David Cosby; 3 sisters: Debbie Bottorf, Diana Jacobs, and Karen Hobson; and 4 grandchildren: Hunter Trainor, Sophia Trainor, Bailey Trainor and Maveryk Trainor.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Eugene and Bobbie Jean; and a brother, Steve Cosby.

A Memorial service will be held on Wednesday, April 9, at 6 p.m. at Hughes-Taylor Funeral Home – Pekin Chapel, with Brother Wayne Adams officiating.  Visiting hours will be on Wednesday, April 9, from 4 p.m. until the time of service at the funeral home.

JO ANN EBERLY, 92, passed away March 23, 2025 at Meadowview Health and Rehabilitation facility in Salem.

Jo Ann was born August 25, 1932 in Waukegan, IL to James N and Thelma L True. She married Frederick Dale Eberly in Whiting, on September 5, 1952.

Jo Ann was proceeded in death by her parents, husband in 1989 and son,

James in 2005.

Jo Ann is survived by two daughters, Cathy (Bud) Huey of Salem, and Jody Eberly (Larry Houf) of Rolla, Mo.; three grandchildren, Molly (Nathan) Kelly of Indianapolis, IN, Ben (Angela) Huey of Apex, NC, and Logan Houf of Los Angeles, CA.; three great-grandchildren, Emma Kelly, Finnegan Kelly and Harrison Huey; sister, Barbara Ries of Washington DC;

sister-in-law, Peggy Alexander of Lake Placid, FL; and three nieces and

one nephew.

Jo Ann was a teacher in Illinois Public Schools for almost 20 years. She was a member of PEO Chapter EE, St. Marks United Methodist Church, Altrusa International, Corporation Board member of Delta Delta Delta Sorority, Monroe County United Ministries volunteer, World Wide Friendship volunteer, Board member of Bloomington Pops and Board member

of Winslow Farm and Moss Creek.

Jo Ann loved her family and enjoyed traveling with family and friends. In her lifetime, she visited countries on all continents except Antarctica. She adored her three grandchildren and was interested in their accomplishments right up to the end of her life.

The family would like to thank all the staff and aides at Meadowview Health & Rehabilitation for the loving care they provided our Mom, Mimi, and great-grandmother in the last years of her life. We know her life was made better by your efforts.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the James R Eberly Scholarship Fund c/o Foundation of Monroe County Community Schools, 315 North Dr., Bloomington, IN 47401. This scholarship benefits students attending Indiana University majoring in Fine Arts.

Interment will be in the Houf-Eberly Family Cemetery in Kingdom City, MO, alongside her husband and son.

Arrangements are under the direction of Dawalt Funeral Home in Salem, IN.

A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date to accommodate family schedules. Information on date and time will be posted on the Dawalt Funeral Home website.

TIMOTHY BRUCE ROOT, 66 Mitchell, Indiana passed away peacefully surrounded by his family at his residence on Saturday, March 29, 2025. 

He was born December 14, 1958, in Bedford to Cletus Dale Root and Rosalie Corey Root. 

Tim was a loving  husband, father, grandpa, son, brother and friend. He was an avid guitar player and singer. He loved playing with his band for many years at various places and open mic nights.  His motorcycle brought him great joy and many wonderful adventures with his wife.  He was a member of the American Legion Mitchell Post 250. He was an Army Veteran and a retired Construction worker. 

He is survived by his wife, Vonda Root. His mother Rosalie Busch, two sons, Joshua Root (Karen) of Bedford, Indiana, Tim Devon Root, of Missouri,six daughters, Amber Andis (Corey) of Bedford,Indiana, Kristney Coomer (Rusty) of Springville, Indiana, Coreylyn Marshall (Tyler) of Bedford,Indiana, Kelby Smith (David) of Marion, Indiana, Tracy Smith (Jason) of Colorado, Kristy Wuest (Kevin) of Indianapolis, Indiana,ten grandchildren, Cody, Jesse, Ryan, Ariana, Noah, Caden, Rylyn, Jackson, Braxon, and Maddox, and two great grandchildren, a brother Walter Charles Root of Bedford and numerous nieces and nephews. 

He was preceded in death by one sister, Becky Miller and his father Cletus Dale Root. 

A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.

It is with great love and sadness that we announce the loss of Harold Vernon Baker, Jr. who passed away on March 26th, 2025 at 64 years old in Albuquerque, New Mexico.

Vernon was born on November 15th, 1960 in Tallahassee Florida into a military family. His father was Harold Vernon Baker, Sr. and his mother was Joyce Lee Potts. He grew up mostly in La Junta, Colorado but also lived at different times in Germany, New York, Indiana, and New Hampshire. He lived and worked in New Mexico for the past 28 years raising two children there with his former wife, Lori Baker.

Alongside his brother, he became an Eagle Scout at the age of twelve as a member of Boy Scout Troop 232. He was a walk-on football player his senior year in Kaiserslautern, Germany while attending the American High School there. He graduated from Purdue University in 1983 with a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering. He then attended officer training school and served in the Air Force from 1982 to 1988 rising to the rank of Captain before continuing as a civilian.

Vernon Baker had over 40 years of service in the Department of the Air Force, serving as the Technical Advisor for the Integrated Experiments and Evaluations Division at the Air Force Research Laboratory’s Space Vehicles Directorate, Kirtland Air Force Base, New Mexico. In this role he advised Air Force and Space Force leaders on the development and transition of first-of-a-kind space flight experiments and space technology. Vernon was recognized as an Air Force Research Laboratory Lifetime Fellow in 2007 for his world-class atmospheric science experimental work and for pioneering the use of small satellites for emerging Department of Defense space missions. His contributions throughout these years of service have greatly improved the national security space enterprise and have grown a cadre of space engineering expertise in both government and industry.

He enjoyed many hobbies over the years including boating, fishing, and hunting, having just completed a once-in-a-lifetime Oryx hunt in October at the White Sands Missile Range. He loved crafts and was talented at wood-working and wildlife photography, often capturing on camera New Mexico’s beautiful birds. He loved hot air balloons, crewing at the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta and beyond almost every year for the past two decades. He was reliable behind the wheel, known as a talented crew chief who was always somehow right where you needed him.

Vernon’s love for both his family and his country guided everything he did. As a father, friend, mentor, and colleague, Vernon is remembered for his brilliance, his kindness, his sense of humor, and his generous heart.

He was preceded in death by his father Harold Vernon Baker, Sr. and his mother Joyce Lee Potts. He is survived by his two children, Matt Baker and Chloe Baker, his older brother Kyle Baker (Carrie), and his younger sister, Brigitte Krob. He is also survived by numerous nieces and nephews and extended family members: Kylene, Jeremy, Kristin, Jennifer, Jaden, Shaylon, Josh, Anastasia, Dominic, and J.J.

A service will be held in Albuquerque at Daniels Family Funeral Home (Wyoming location at 7601 Wyoming Blvd NE Albuquerque, NM) on Monday, April 7th, 2025 at 1:30 pm with a viewing and visitation beginning at noon.

Funeral service will also be held at Hughes-Taylor Funeral Home - Borden Chapel on Monday, April 14, 2025 at 1:00 pm, with visitation from 11:00 am until the time of service. Burial will follow at Walnut Hill Cemetery in Borden with full military honors.