May 16, 2024
Sherry Lynn Russell
BEDFORD – Sherry Lynn Russell, 66, a long-time resident of Mitchell, passed away Tuesday, May 14, 2024, at IU Health Bedford Hospital.
Born June 18, 1957, in Bedford, she was the daughter of Oscar E. “Gene” and Mary Alice (Greene) Russell.
Sherry was of the Christian faith and attended The Bride of Christ Fellowship. She enjoyed doing coloring books and seek and finds.
Surviving are her aunt, Virginia Ruth Burlington; several nieces, nephews, and cousins; and her cousin, raised as a brother, Roy (Linda) Hardin of Greenville.
Her parents and siblings, Paul Russell and Marcella “JoJo” Russell, preceded her in death.
Cremation has been chosen with burial at Bethel Cemetery at a later date.
Condolences may be sent to the family at www.chastainfuneralhome.com
Lorene (Williams) Ashley
September 14, 1926 – May 14, 2024
Lorene (Williams) Ashley, 97, of Bedford, passed away at 9:17 a.m., Tuesday, May 14, 2024, at I.U. Health Hospital, Bedford, surrounded by family. She was born September 14, 1926, to Oscar and Cora (Tincher) Williams in Lawrence County. Lorene married Morris L. Ashley October 27, 1945, and he preceded her in death February 17, 1993.
Lorene had an infectious smile and was one who everyone loved, and she loved them back. She always had kind words for everyone. Several of her children’s friends call her Mom and she would be called MawMaw by many. She was the Queen Bee of her family; her kids, grandkids, great grandkids and great-great grandkids loved spending time with her. She will be missed very much by all.
Lorene attended Bedford First (Turning Point) Church of the Nazarene. Her favorite things were playing Bingo (a few nights a week), Brownstown Races and Wrestling. She went to work as a cook at the Hub Restaurant after her children were raised.
She is survived by Eva Robbins, who she raised from the age of 8 like her own; children, Linda (Jerry) Hawkins, Patty (Byron) Sanders, Larry (Linda) Ashley, Sheila (James) Tipton, Denny (Becky) Ashley and Randy (fiancé Lesley Sanders) Ashley; 20 grandchildren; 39 great grandchildren; and 30 great-great grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her parents; husband; son, Don Ashley; grandsons, Shannon Dale Rainey and Bobby Tipton; brothers, Warren Williams, Harry Williams, Robert Williams, Clifford Williams and Jesse Williams; sisters, Dorothy McCart, Mary Sheeks, Maxine Hodges and Betty Thomas; daughter-in-law, Jeanneta Ashley; and son-in-law, Bart Webber.
Funeral services for Lorene will be conducted at 11:00 a.m., Saturday, May 18, 2024, at the Ferguson-Lee Chapel of Thorne-George Family Funeral Homes, Bedford, with Millard Jones and James Radford officiating. Burial will follow at Beech Grove Cemetery. Visitation will be Friday, May 17, 2024, from 2:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m., also at Ferguson-Lee Chapel.
Memories and condolences may be shared at www.FergusonLee.com.
Anthony Milton Tillette
MITCHELL – Anthony Milton Tillette, Sr., 76, passed away Sunday May 12, 2024, at IU Health Bloomington Hospital.
Born May 25, 1947, in Lawrence County, he was the son of Willard Tillette and Maxine (Tincher) Enochs. He married Regina Turner on June 29, 1968 and she survives.
Anthony owned Tillette’s Construction for many years. He enjoyed fishing and being outdoors, but especially loved being with his grandkids.
Survivors include his wife, Regina Tillette of Mitchell; children, Tonetta (Kevin) Nicholson of Mitchell, Anthony Tillette Jr. of Mitchell, Jeff (Melanie) Tillette of Mitchell and Troy Tillette of Mitchell; siblings, Elnora (Chris) Hassler of Bedford, and Barbara (Daniel) Duncan of Mitchell; and 23 grandchildren and great grandchildren.
His parents; grandson, Dakota Elliott; and siblings, Sue Dalton, Rita Frost, and James Tillette, preceded him in death.
Cremation has been chosen.
Condolences may be sent to the family at www.chastainfuneralhome.com
Jerry D. McPike
November 12, 1935 - May 13, 2024
Bedford - Jerry D. McPike, 88, of Bedford, passed away at 8:24 pm on Monday, May 13, 2024, at I.U. Health Hospice House in Bloomington.
Born November 12, 1935, in Lawrence Co., he was the son of Jesse and Ruth (Anderson) McPike. He married Janis Stultz on November 21, 1956, and she survives. He was a farmer and awarded Lawrence Co. Conservation Farmer of the Year in 2002 and retired as a tool and die maker after 40 years at Central Foundry. He was the owner of D & M Tool and a member of the Mt. Pleasant Christian Church where he served as a deacon. He was a member of the Masonic Lodge #14 F & AM and Scottish Rite Valley of Indianapolis for over 50 years. He had been a former Marshall Township Trustee, a school bus driver, a volunteer fire fighter, and had served on the Needmore School Board.
Survivors include his wife, Janis, of Bedford; a son, Jesse McPike and wife, Shannon, of Bedford; three daughters, Lhea Mundell and husband, Alan, of Kingston, WA, Julie Adams, of Bedford and Keyla Elliott and husband, Greg, of Salem, AL; grandchildren, Elijah McPike and wife, Ireland, Rachel Orr and husband, Daniel, Matthew Mundell and wife, Emily, David Mundell, Rebekah Mundell, Samuel Mundell and fiancé , Kaytee, Jeremy Gilbert and wife, Hilary, Jacey Anderson and husband, Gavin, Jeven Adams and fiancé , Lillian, Christian Elliott and wife, Brianne, and Casey Elliott; seven great-grandchildren, Jesse Mundell, Klancy Mundell, Jerett Gilbert, Jaden Gilbert, Alleigh Gilbert, Jantzen Anderson, Cohen Elliott and one on the way, Swazey McPike. He was preceded in death by his parents; a brother, Larry McPike and three sisters, Ruby Tumey, Mildred Watson, and Betty Jones.
Funeral services will be conducted at 3:00 pm on Saturday, May 18th at the Mt. Pleasant Christian Church with Pastor Jeff Hudelson officiating. Burial will follow in the Mt. Pleasant Cemetery. Visitation will be from 12:00 noon until the hour of service on Saturday at the church. Family and friends may express condolences at www.daycarter.com.
Larry “Kent” Fletcher
Larry “Kent” Fletcher, 67 of Bloomington and Bedford passed away on Tuesday April 9, 2024, at 8:15 P.M. at his home after a courageous battle with Cancer, he was surrounded by his loving family and friends. He was born in Bedford on November 3, 1956, to Carole Sue (Pruitt) Weyher.
Kent was the caretaker of Ken-Ray Lake for many years, he retired from US Gypsum in Shoals as an Industrial Maintenance Engineer.
He was an avid motorcyclist and outdoorsman.
Kent married Teresa McGeary Fletcher on December 4, 2020, and she survives.
Survivors include his wife, Teresa McGeary-Fletcher, one son, Marshall Fletcher, three grandchildren, Ashlynn Fletcher and Justin Fletcher, and Emma Grace Brown, his father, Richard Weyher and his wife, Norma, two sisters, Joan Marcos, and Pennie (Jeff) Karns, half-brother, Brian Fletcher, two stepsons, James Brown, and Jeremy (Morgan) Brown.
Kent was preceded in death by his mother, Carole Sue Weyher, his wife, Janice Fletcher, stepson, Justin Brown.
Cremation was chosen with a celebration of Kent’s life on May 25th from 12:00 Noon until 3:00 PM at the Shriners Club, 2920 Dixie Highway in Bedford, food and refreshments will be provided. Cresthaven Funeral Home is entrusted with his care, condolences may be made at www.cresthavenfh.com. In remembrance of Kent, as requested by his family; There are special people in our lives that never leave even after they are gone. Love your family and friends daily as if it is your last day, no one is promised tomorrow.
Deanna Kay Ely
MITCHELL – Deanna Kay Ely, 77, passed away on Mother’s Day, Sunday, May 12, 2024, surrounded by loved ones, holding her hands, at home in Mitchell.
Born September 25, 1946, in Orange County, she was the daughter of Oral E. and Marjorie (Cassidy) Luchauer. Kay married James I. Ely on January 16, 1981 in Mitchell and he preceded her in death April 27, 2011.
Kay was a 1964 graduate of Mitchell High School and a life-long resident of Mitchell. She retired from Dunn Memorial Hospital after 30 years of service where she worked in Patient Admitting and in the financial/insurance accounts office. Kay loved gardening, painting, crafts, animals, and especially spending time with her grandchildren.
Surviving are her children, Patsy (Byron) Smith of South Carolina, Paul (Cassie) Terry of Orleans, and James D. (Sara) Terry of Mitchell; grandchildren, Tyler Conway, Derrick Cook, Miranda Terry, Megan Terry, Daniel Terry, Ethan Terry, Isaac Terry, and Briana Crossland; six great-grandchildren; siblings, Mike (Valerie) Luchauer of Bedford, Lynn “Luke” (Ginny) Luchauer of Center Point, Iowa, and Doug (Sandy) Luchauer of Garrett; sister-in-law, Brenda Luchauer of Mitchell; and several nieces and nephews.
Her parents; husband; and brother, Oral L. Luchauer, preceded her in death.
Funeral service will be at 10:30 a.m. Friday, May 17, in the Memorial Chapel of Chastain Funeral Home & Cremation Center with Bradley Conner officiating. Burial will be in Mitchell Cemetery.
The family will receive friends from 4:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. Thursday and from 9:30 a.m. until the service on Friday at the funeral home.
Condolences may be sent to the family at www.chastainfuneralhome.com
Jeffrey Wesley Ball
BEDFORD – Jeffrey Wesley Ball, 61, passed to heaven, Sunday, May 12, 2024, surrounded by his family, at Mitchell Manor, after several years of declining health.
Born July 7, 1962, in Bedford, he was the son of Kenneth Eugene and Mary Lutina “Teeny” (Andrews) Ball.
Jeff worked for Jones Oil, which included Jackson’s in Bedford, and actually opened the new station in Mitchell, which is now Marathon, working until just a few months ago. Jeff greatly admired Robert Jones of Jones Oil and he taught him so much about the industry. Jeff was loved by many patrons and employees. His family was so proud of him and loved him very much.
Surviving are his daughter, April (Brian) Barchman of Indianapolis; several grandchildren; sisters, Rita Jean Ball (Mike) Ramey of Bedford and Kathy Rose Ball (Joe) Vogler of Bedford; his nieces and nephews; and many friends.
His parents and son, Joshua Ball, preceded him in death.
Cremation has been chosen.
In lieu of flowers please donate to a charity of your choice. Jeff helped many people over the years and would want you to do the same.
Condolences may be sent to the family at www.chastainfuneralhome.com
Jerry Dean Fortner
BEDFORD - Jerry Dean Fortner, 80, it is with heavy hearts that we announce that he left this world on May 11, 2024, leaving behind a legacy of being a devoted husband and father, and always sharing a story, joke, and fun.
Born in Lawrence County on August 29, 1943, to John and Blanche (Brown) Fortner, Jerry was greatly influenced by his dear mother, Blanche, who taught him hard work, integrity, respect, and love. He was a dedicated husband to his beloved wife of 42 years, Jan (Worley) Fortner, and a devoted father to his daughter, Stephanie (Brown) Sipes. He followed “his girls” to work out sessions in the gym, shopping adventures, eating out, large family gatherings, and basketball and volleyball games near and far.
Jerry graduated from Mitchell High School in1961. On November 30, 1961, he, Paul Grissom, and Howard Cahill enlisted in the United States Marine Corp where he proudly served for four years and four months. Jerry served “In Zone” or inside enemy waters during the Vietnam conflict. He was awarded the Vietnam Conflict ribbon for his service. Semper Fi!
Jerry’s professional life consisted of working construction for many years, then as an Ordnance Worker for the Crane Army Ammunition Activity, from where he retired.
Outside of work, Jerry had a wide range of interests and hobbies. He loved fishing, raising chickens, wood working, mushroom hunting, and piddling in his garage. His favorite fishing trips were those in Florida with Jan and Steph.
Jerry's presence will be deeply missed by all who knew him. His legacy of love, family, and a good laugh.
He is survived by daughter, Stephanie (Brown) Sipes and Steven; brother, Larry Fortner; special niece who was like a sister, Darlene (Fortner) Clark; as well as several nieces, nephews and extended family Gavin and Lindsay Steele, Laney, Linkyn, and Trueman.
His beloved wife Jan; parents; sister, Marilyn (Fortner) Blackburn; and brothers John Jr., Jim, Ron, Bob, and Denny, preceded him in death.
A celebration of Jerry's life will be held at 1:00 p.m. Saturday, May 18, 2024, at Chastain Funeral Home & Cremation Center. Military Rites will be accorded by American Legion Post 250 and Veteran’s of Foreign Wars Post 9107.
Friends may visit from 11:00 a.m. until the funeral service Saturday at the funeral home.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to Dementia Friendly Lawrence County, www.dementiafriendsindiana.org.
Love and many thanks to Aunt Jill Fortner for being there for Stephanie and Jerry the last few years. She gave unwavering love and support and provided great peace.
A special thank you to Korina Dusard for her continued love, support, and professionalism.
Rest in peace, dear Jerry. You will forever hold a special place in our hearts.
Condolences may be sent to the family at www.chastainfuneralhome.com
Karlynn A. Allen
Karlynn A. Allen, 66 of Bedford passed away at her residence on May 3, 2024. She was born in Bedford on February 5, 1958, to George R. Curren and Rosemary (Lee) Curren. She was a graduate of BNL High School, Karlynn worked for Stone Belt/Larc in Bedford.
Survivors include her half-sister, Michele (Marty) Terry of Bedford, her stepmother, Julia Curren of Bedford, her stepsister, Jana Johnson, two nephews, Levi Curren of Bedford, and Luke Preston of Bedford, one great niece, Cleopatra Curren of Bedford.
Karlynn was preceded in death by her father, George Curren, mother, Rosemary Curren, and husband, Rosendo “Rock” Escobedo.
Cremation was chosen with a celebration of her life at a later date. Cresthaven Funeral Home is entrusted with her care, condolences may be made at www.cresthavenfh.com.
May 15, 2024
Imogene Rose Crites
MITCHELL – Imogene Rose Crites, 92, passed away Saturday, May 11, 2024, at Westview Nursing and Rehabilitation Center.
Born May 19, 1931, in Nevada, Missouri, she was the daughter of Charles and Esther (Doyle) Ault. Imogene married William G. Crites on April 23, 1964 and he preceded her in death in 1994.
Imogene worked in retail for several years and was a homemaker. She was an active member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Mitchell. Imogene was involved with the Boy Scouts for over 10 years, as well as 4-H, and other community organizations.
Surviving are her sons, Charles William (Michelle) Crites of Mitchell and Paul Eugene (Jennifer) Crites of Springville; grandchildren, Logan Crites, Jacob Crites, Caleb Crites, and Estevan Ayala; great-grandchildren, Evan Ayala, Marie Godinez, Christine Godinez, and Elizabeth Russell; family member, Pat Holding; and best friend, Ruth York.
Her parents, husband, and granddaughter, Ashley Godinez, preceded her in death.
Rosary and Mass of Christian Burial will be at 2:00 p.m. Friday, May 24, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church with Father Jegan Peter and Deacon Dave Rising officiating. Burial will be at Cresthaven Memory Gardens
The family will receive friends from 1:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m. Friday at the church.
Condolences may be sent to the family at www.chastainfuneralhome.com
Joan L. Adams
July 18, 1932 – November 17, 2023
Bedford – Joan L. Adams, 91, of Bedford, passed away on Friday, November 17, 2023, at White River Lodge.
Born July 18, 1932, in Trinity Springs, IN, she was the daughter of Gladys and Hazel Doll (Roberts) Lewis. She married Vernie Adams on July 22, 1950, and he preceded her in death on June 5, 2023. She retired as a school secretary and was a member of the First Church of God in Bedford.
Survivors include three sons, Vern (Susan) Adams, of Elizabeth, CO, Steve (Cathy) Adams, of Edmond, OK, and Mike (Giselle) Adams, of Pleasanton, CA; six grandchildren, Vernon (Katherine) Adams, of Wesminster, CO, Becka Adams, of Los Angeles, CA, Ryan Adams and Emily Adams, of Edmond, OK, Gavin Adams and Morgan Adams, of Pleasanton, CA; one brother, Jim (Helen) Lewis, of Mitchell; one sister, Carolyn (Jim) Buttz, of Bedford; several nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, one daughter, Linda Sue Adams; three brothers, Bob, Bill, and Paul Gene Lewis.
A Memorial Service will be conducted at 2:30 pm on Saturday, June 1st at the First Church of God in Bedford. Family and friends may express condolences at www.daycarter.com.
James T. “JT” Moser
James T. “JT” Moser, 42 of Williams passed away on Saturday May 11, 2024, at 9:20 PM at the IU Hospice House in Bloomington. He was born in Houston, Texas on April 30, 1982, to Harold and Margaret (Cox) Moser.
JT has been quadriplegic since age 12 and has been at home with his mother who cared for him, he enjoyed music, food, and online gaming.
Survivors include his mother, Margaret Moser of Williams, three brothers, Ranson (Tina) Johnson of Springville, Tony (Yolanda) Moser of Williams, and Jeff Moser of Williams, several nieces, and nephews.
JT was preceded in death by his father, Harold Moser.
Cremation was chosen, the family will announce a celebration of his life at a later date. Cresthaven Funeral Home is entrusted with his care, condolences may be made at www.cresthavenfh.com.
Mary Avonelle Acton
MITCHELL – Mary Avonelle Acton, 91, passed away Friday, May 10, 2024, at Indiana University Bloomington Hospital.
Born August 11, 1932, in Bedford, she was the daughter of Gordon and Diana (Jarvis) Thomas. She married W. Charles “Sonny” Acton on July 1, 1950, and he preceded her in death on April 21, 2004.
Author, grandmother, lab technician, secretary, musician — all could describe Mary Acton during her 91 years. Whatever role life provides, she played with an enthusiasm that befits the one-time cheerleader.
During the early years of her life, Mary saw the end of the Great Depression and the beginning of World War II. Her parents, Gordon and Diana, came through some lean times. After her father lost his job as a mechanic and millwright, he worked with the WPA. Grandparents, Millard and Delorah Jarvis, supplemented the family food budget with produce from their farm near Mitchell.
The situation changed when the family, which included Mary and her sister Patricia, moved to Indianapolis in 1940 to allow their father to work in war production. The job paid well, but Mary recalls one time when her father was required to stay at the factory for about a month on a top secret project. He was the foreman of a team involved in dismantling a German rocket that had been captured. Her mother went to the gate to deliver clean clothes and pick up his laundry, but was not allowed to see him.
During that time, rationing was in force and gasoline was very scarce. Bicycles were a popular mode of transportation, and Mary remembers sometimes ice skating to her nearby School No. 34 in the winter. Rationing of food was also a problem, and the much enjoyed visits to the grandparents’ farm were rare because of the lack of gas for the car. Grandmother Jarvis sent honey by mail to serve as a substitute for the rationed sugar.
With improved circumstances, the family moved to a nice home adjacent to Garfield Park. During that time, Mary was privileged to take lessons in gymnastics, ballet and piano. Even though the park pool was nearby, the girls were not allowed to go swimming because of the polio scare. One of Mary’s school friends was a polio victim who was confined to an iron lung. (The Salk polio vaccine was not available until 1955.)
The Thomas family moved to Mitchell on Sept. 3, 1945, the day after VJ Day marked the end of World War II. Her parents were anxious to leave behind big city living and its safety concerns, but their youngest daughter hated leaving her gymnastics, ballet and music lessons. She kept up her music by singing in the choir of Mitchell First Baptist Church, starting at age 14. Mary had been a church member for over 60 years. For most of those years, she added her superb alto voice to the choir, sang in a women’s quartet and occasionally served as choir director.
High school days at Mitchell were good times for Mary. Her gymnastics and dance skills were useful when she was a cheerleader, and music classes were always a joy to her. She graduated in May 1950 and married Charles “Sonny” Acton on July 1, 1950. Three children — Cindy, Tom and Tim — were born to them. They were happily married for 54 years until Sonny passed away in 2004.
Mary worked first in Bedford as an executive secretary at the Robertson Corp. She signed on in the lab at Bedford Medical Center (now Indiana University Health) when that hospital opened in 1970, going to Dunn Memorial Hospital in 1977. She then worked in the office of Dr. Lawrence Benham from 1982 until her retirement in 1994. In her indomitable style, she gave immediate notice when a new physician paged her “stat” to announce that he was ready for his tea.
In retirement, she cared for her mother and began another career of writing historical novels, inspired by lore of Civil War times in the local area. She has five books to her credit: “Shadows in the Snow,” “Heritage of Honor,” “To Hear the Night Bird Sing,” “This Forever Land” and “Sins in a Quiet Town.”
After living a few years in Texas to be near her daughter, Mary returned to Indiana. She kept busy with church, clubs and enjoyed time with her 10 grandchildren, 16 great-grandchildren, and 4 great-great-grandchildren.
Mary had been a member of several organizations, including the Phi Beta Psi Sorority, Fleur de Lis, and the Order of the Eastern Star 503. Mary was active as a Guardian of Job’s Daughters and chair of the Lawrence County Cancer Society.
Survivors include her children, Cynthia Jo (Mike) Matlock of Bedford, Thomas Wesley (Becki) Acton of Bedford, and Timothy Dale (Dawn) Acton of Oolitic; grandchildren, Jessica Jo Harvey, Dustin Matlock, Donald Dean Hall II, Aaron Matlock, Wynter Brooke Elliott, Ashleigh Hope Cummings, Andrew Collyn Acton, Heather Bree Acton, Jordan Wiley Acton, and Noah McKinley Acton; 16 great-grandchildren; and 4 great-great grandchildren
Her parents; husband; and sister, Patricia Beeler preceded her in death.
Funeral service will be at 12:00 p.m. Thursday, May 16, at the First Baptist Church with Reverend Reggie Clark officiating. Burial will follow at Cresthaven Memory Gardens.
The family will receive friends from 10:00 a.m. until the time of the service on Thursday at the First Baptist Church.
Memorial contributions: Lawrence County Cancer Patients.
Excerpts used from Times Mail article by L. Joyce Mundy
May 9, 2024
Judith Diane Andrews
Judith Diane Andrews, 72, passed away peacefully Friday, November 10, 2023, due to natural causes at the Turlock Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in Turlock, California.
Judy was born February 12, 1951 in Mitchell, Indiana and grew up there until she went west to live mostly in sunny California. Judy also lived in Yuma, Arizona and Bedford, Indiana before returning to Modesto, California. Judy knew that she would return to Indiana to “be with family” in a final resting place there.
Judy lived a life of example to her four children, eight grandchildren, and five great-grandchildren. She cared for the family until the end of her life with cards, gifts, and calls on special occasions. The family pictures tell a story of a life of love for all. The family includes her sisters, who were like her best friends, and many nieces, nephews, cousins, and many, many more.
Judy loved the children and had a special place in her heart for the grandkids and great-grandchildren. They made her heart soar to the moon and stars. She loved us all so much and we loved her as much as humanly possible. Judy worked hard in her daily life and taught us many things. Judy spent every moment with family and she will be greatly missed.
She is survived by her sisters, Brenda (Joe) Stevens and Janet “Aunt Cookie”; children, Tonya (Miles) Curtis, Michelle (Cristhian) Diaz, and John (Nicole) Combs; grandchildren, Matt, Anthony, Dylan, Megan Skylar, Cynthia, Cassandra, and Angelica; and great-grandchildren, Jonathan, Zerrek, Jayden, Noah, and Princess Love.
Her father, John Andrews; mother, Bernice Burton; and son, Eddie Combs, Jr., preceded her in death.
Graveside service will be at 3:00 p.m. Friday, May 17, at Mitchell Cemetery.
“Your life was a blessing, your memory a treasure, you are loved beyond words and missed beyond measure.”
Condolences may be sent to the family at www.chastainfuneralhome.com
May 8, 2024
Timothy Monroe "Tim" Justice
October 19, 1974 - May 7, 2024
Bloomington - Timothy Monroe "Tim" Justice, 49, of Bloomington, passed away at 7:27 am on Tuesday, May 7, 2024. Born October 19, 1974, in Pikeville, KY, he was the son of Virgil Justice, Wilma (Bacon) and Bryan Matney.
Survivors include his mother; his sister, Tammy Jo (Aaron) Dinn; his children, Leilani Justice and Haemma (Bella) Justice; a niece, Emma "Baby Girl" Dinn; a great-niece, Ivy "Sunshine" Dinn; several aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends. He was preceded in death by his father; his step-father, Bryan Matney; a brother, Jimmy Lee Justice; his grandparents, Georgia Bacon, Chester and Carrine Justice.
Cremation was chosen. Family and friends may express condolences at www.daycarter.com.
Carol Ann Kerns Hedrick
March 5, 1935 - May 6, 2024
Bedford - Carol Ann Kerns Hedrick, 89, of Bedford, formerly of Greenfield, passed away Monday, May 6, 2024, at I.U. Health Bedford Hospital.
Born March 5, 1935, in Shoals, IN, she was the daughter of Homer C. and Fae Eldean (Sherfick) Kerns. She married Francis Earl "Bud" Hedrick on January 1, 1967, and he preceded her in death on November 15. 2001. She was a graduate of Arsenal Tech High School in Indianapolis. She was an operations supervisor for Indiana National/Chase Bank. She, along with her husband and family owned and operated Hoosier Poet Motel in Greenfield for over 20 years. She was of the Christian faith and member of the Martin County Garden Club. She was a founding member and very involved in Bedford's Al-Anon. She was a member of the Bedford Moose Lodge where she enjoyed doing charity rides and was a member of the Honda Goldwing Club.
Survivors include five children, Mark Mayhew and wife, Rhonda; Becky Mosley and husband, Gus; Tammy Gregg and husband, Hank, all of Greenfield; Debbie Hodge, of Bedford and Angie Giles, and husband, Roger, of Mission, TX; eleven grandchildren; 23 great-grandchildren plus one on the way; five great-great-grandchildren plus one on the way; a sister, Wilma Fisher and husband, Paul, of Mission, TX. She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, a granddaughter, Linsie Mosley; a brother, Kermit Kerns; two sisters, Virginia Holt and Mary Olson; and son-in-law, Tim Hodge.
Funeral services will be conducted at 11:00 am on Friday, May 10th in the Elmwood Chapel of the Day & Carter Mortuary. Burial will be at 3:00 pm on Friday at Hedricksburg Cemetery, 2-998 S. Grant City Road, Shirley, IN 47384. Visitation will be from 4:00 pm to 8:00 pm on Thursday, May 9th at the Day & Carter Mortuary. Family and friends may express condolences at www.daycarter.com.
Stephen E. Williams
November 15, 1948 - May 5, 2024
Mitchell - Stephen E. Williams, 75, of Mitchell, passed away Sunday, May 5, 2024.
Born November 15, 1948, in Lawrence Co., he was the son of William and Ellen (Walker) Williams. He retired as a warranty manager for Carpenter Body Works. During retirement he worked at Stone Crest Golf Course and enjoyed rounds of golf. He was a member of the Mitchell Church of Christ. He loved golf, bass fishing, camping and trap shooting. He married Lana Parish on February 13, 1976, and she survives. Also surviving is a son, Dustin Williams and wife, Laura, of Bedford; two grandchildren, Laci and Alli; three brothers, David Williams, of Mitchell, Denny Williams, of Bloomington, and Gary Williams, of Evansville; and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, a brother, William "Ronnie" Williams; a sister, Barbara Eckensberger.
Funeral services will be conducted at 1:00 pm on Saturday, May 11th in the Elmwood Chapel of the Day & Carter Mortuary with Pastor Alan Burris officiating. Burial will follow in the Mitchell Cemetery. Visitation will be from 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm on Friday, May 10th and from 11:00 am until the hour of service on Saturday at the Day & Carter Mortuary. Family and friends may express condolences at www.daycarter.com.
Jerry Murphy
Jerry Murphy,78 of Medora passed away on May 5, 2024, and was welcomed into the Kingdom of Heaven. He is survived by his wife, Linda Murphy, his sister, Patsy Smith of New York, brother, Mike Murphy of New York, four children, Tim Murphy of Paoli, David Murphy of Medora, Mary Scholl of Mooresville, and Donna Wright of Bedford, Eight grandchildren and fifteen great grandchildren.
Jerry never met a person that he couldn’t talk to even strangers. He loved to hunt and fish; he was an avid mushroom hunter and loved to Ginseng hunt. Plus, he loved to mow and garden, and watch Nascar races. Jerry worked at GM Powertrain in Bedford for over 14 years.
Jerry attended Homer High School in New York, he joined the US Army serving in the Korean War and the Vietnam War.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Cornilius and Gertrude Murphy, brother, Jimmy Murphy, and Floyd Wesley Murphy, sister, Esther.
Funeral services will be on Friday May 10, 2024, at 7:00 PM at Cresthaven Funeral Home, cremation will follow, visitation will be on Friday May 10th from 5:00 PM until service time at 7:00 PM at the funeral home, Cresthaven Funeral Home is entrusted with his care, condolences may be made at www.cresthavenfh.com.
May 6, 2024
Wendell “Merle” Neeley
Wendell “Merle” Neeley, 74 of Bedford passed away on Monday May 6, 2024, at IU Health Hospice House in Bloomington. He was born in Lee County, Virgina on February 8, 1950, to Benjamin Carroll Neeley and Mabel Iris (Roop) Neeley.
Merle retired from General Motors in Bedford, he was a member of the UAW #440, the Bedford Boat and Sportsman Club, and Mitchell VFW Post # 9107.
Survivors include one daughter, Wendy (David) Ira of Bedford, one son, Cory (Nathanael Williamson) Neeley of Bedford, two grandsons, Jacob Ira of Bedford, and Lucas Ira of Bedford, one brother, Ben (Jane) Neeley of Bedford, three sisters, Carolyn (Danny) Fortner of Bedford, Diana (John) Hall of Bedford, and Kim Bertolino of Bedford, one sister-in-law, Rita Neeley of Florida.
Merle was preceded in death by his parents, Benjamin and Mabel Neeley, and one brother, Dale Neeley
Funeral services will be held on Friday May 10, 2024, at 11:00 AM at Cresthaven Funeral Home, burial will follow in Talbert Cemetery, visitation will be on Thursday May 9, 2024, from 4:00 PM until 8:00 PM at the funeral home and on Friday from 10:00 AM until service time. Cresthaven Funeral Home is entrusted with his care, condolences may be made at www.cresthavenfh.com.
James Michael Gaddis
MITCHELL – James Michael Gaddis, 49, passed away Saturday, May 4, 2024, at his residence.
Born November 30, 1974, in Bedford, he was the son of Charles Joseph and Joyce Eva Agan.
James was a 1995 graduate of Bedford North Lawrence High School. He worked at LARC Center where he made arrows for many years. He attended Fishing Creek Chapel. James enjoyed break dancing, sightseeing, and taking walks. He loved being around his family and friends.
Surviving are his mother, Joyce Eva Agan of Mitchell; siblings, April (George) Wilkerson of Sparksville, Heather Agan of Paoli, Christopher Agan of Mitchell, and Joseph Agan of Mitchell; mamaw, Mary Etta Gaddis of Mitchell; cousins, Rebekah Smith of Campbellsburg and Ola “Pete” Smith of Campbellsburg; and several aunts, uncles, and cousins.
His father and grandpa, James Calvin Gaddis, preceded him in death.
Cremation has been chosen.
Condolences may be sent to the family at www.chastainfuneralhome.com
Jerry Ray Reynolds
August 1, 1937 - May 5, 2024
Mitchell - Jerry Ray Reynolds, 86, of Mitchell, IN, passed away at 3:55 pm, on Sunday, May 5, 2024, at I.U. Health Bloomington Hospital from results of a fatal car crash.
Born August 1, 1937, he was the son of Herbert S. and Violet E. (Ray) Reynolds. He married Martha Colglazier and she survives. He was a graduate of Bedford High School where he played basketball. He was a restaurant manager and a member of the First Assembly of God Church. He loved playing golf and euchre and proclaimed himself "world's best".
Survivors include his wife, of 40 years, Martha, of Mitchell; a son, Jerry Ray Reynolds and wife, Penny, of Bedford; three daughters, Pamela Grigg and husband David Goldberg, of CA, Kimberly Burgess, of Mitchell, and Paula Reynolds, of Mitchell; two step-sons, Jefferson Minton and Mark Minton and wife, Gerilyn; two step-daughters, Elizabeth Minton and Mitzi Burks and husband, Gary; 24 grandchildren;23 great-grandchildren; 9 great-great-grandchildren; three sisters, Judith Kay Sharer, Vickie Reynolds-White and Nancy Armstrong and husband, David. He was preceded in death by his parents, a sister, Sandra Reynolds; a cousin who was like a sister being raised in the home, Bonnie McCain; two brothers-in-law, Don Sharer and Dean White.
A celebration of life will be conducted at a later date. Family and friends may express condolences at www.daycarter.com.
Kathryn Sue Kirk
MITCHELL – Kathryn Sue Kirk, 70, passed away Tuesday, May 2, 2024, at Indiana University Health Bloomington Hospital.
Born May 27, 1953, in Bedford, she was the daughter of Samuel Dwight McFarland and Elva Mae (Conner) McFarland. Kathryn was married to the late James Carl Kirk.
Kathryn worked at Kaiser Aluminum driving a forklift and dealing with the molten metal. She later worked for Shelby Trucking as a dump truck driver. Kathryn was also a part of the Midwest Vans and an ABATE Member for many years.
Surviving is her son, James “JJ” Carl (Christy) Kirk Jr. of Mitchell; sisters, Betty Lynn Pruett of Mitchell and Sandra Mae Bambusch of Mitchell; grandchildren, Haleigh (Josh) Phillips of Bedford, Maranda Sanders of Bedford, and Baleigh Kirk of Springville; and great-grandchildren, Liam Phillips of Bedford, Abel Phillips of Bedford, Kreed Cox of Bedford, Asher Cox of Bedford, and Conner Bohlman of Springville.
Her parents; grandchild, Kevan Wilcoxen; and brothers, Samuel dean McFarland, Steven Dwight McFarland, Scott Douglas McFarland and Shawn David McFarland, preceded her in death.
The family will receive friends from 4:00p.m.-7:00p.m. Thursday, May 9th 2024 in the Memorial Chapel of Chastain Funeral & Cremation Center.
Condolences may be sent to the family at www.chastainfuneralhome.com
May 3, 2024
Cathy Jane (Davis) Stewart
July 11, 1948 - May 1, 2024
Bedford - Cathy Jane (Davis) Stewart, 75, of Bedford, passed away at 6:15 am on Wednesday, May 1, 2024, at Bell Trace Long Term Care in Bloomington.
Born July 11, 1948, in Lawrence Co., she was the daughter of Onis and Morcella Jane (Turner) Davis. She married Timothy L. Stewart on October 15, 1966, and he survives. She was a graduate of Needmore High School with the class of 1966. She loved her family and left a legacy of unconditional love. She especially adored her grandchildren and great-grandchildren who all held an extra special place in her heart.
Survivors include her husband, Tim, of Bedford; sister, Connie (Davis) Rott, of Tampa, FL; son, Andy Stewart and wife, Stephanie, of Anderson, IN; a daughter, Tiffany Stewart, of Bedford; son, Cody Stewart and wife, Priscilla, of Goshen, IN; grandson, Nik Stewart and his significant other, Sam Skalski; granddaughter, Taylor Stewart and fiancé Shane Hazelwood, Jr.; great-grandson, Camden Hazelwood; great-granddaughter, Evalynn Hazelwood; great-grandson, Creed Hazelwood; nephew, Patrick (PJ) Lung, of Tampa, FL. She was preceded in death by her parents.
Visitation will be from 10:00 am until the hour of service on Wednesday, May 8th at the Day & Carter Mortuary. A celebration of life will be conducted at 2:00 pm, Wednesday at the Day & Carter Mortuary. Please send remembrances and pictures to Tim in care of Day & Carter Mortuary, P.O. Box 905, Bedford, IN 47421.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial contributions be made to the Alzheimer's Assoc. at www.alz.org. Family and friends may express condolences at www.daycarter.com.