Marita Clare (Frazer) Hileman
Marita Clare (Frazer) Hileman, 80 years old, of Kokomo, passed away at 3:23 p.m. Tuesday, October 8, 2024, at Ascension St. Vincent Heart Center in Carmel. She was born in Kokomo, IN, on March 14, 1944, to the late Donald “Jiggs” and Martha (Dwyer) Frazer. On August 23, 1963, she married the love of her life, Elmer Hileman, who survives.
Marita was a 1962 graduate of Northwestern High School where she served as Senior Class Secretary. She started her career by working on the switchboard as a telephone operator for Indiana Bell. She retired after 26 years of service to the company, having filled many positions along the way. She was a great lady, a great wife, and a great Mom. She was sweet, smart, wise, and so funny! She was a great baker of chocolate chip cookies, chocolate brownies, chocolate cakes, apple dumplings, and her world-famous cream cheese bars that everyone who took a bite wanted the recipe (including the woman who originally gave her the recipe)! She was also known for her black raspberry jelly, as the “Jelly Matriarch” she has passed her recipe down from generation to generation, making “Jelly Day” a tradition that is a favorite of family and friends.
Marita was a faithful member of Morning Star Church. A woman of great faith, she read her 1970s Living Bible cover to cover multiple times over the decades. Full of underlined verses and notes in the margins she shared her faith with many. In her later years, she served as a “Search for Jesus” Email Coach. She spent countless hours typing and praying for people who were looking for, had lost, or were questioning their faith. She was a prayer warrior through and through.
In addition to her husband Elmer, she is survived by her children, Scott (Kristi) Hileman of Walton and Laura Hileman of Kokomo. She is survived by her siblings, JoJo Zinschlag and Dr. Jay “Buzz” (Diana) Frazer of Kokomo along with a number of special nieces and nephews, their spouses, and children.
Marita was preceded in death by her parents; siblings, DeDe (Mark) Daily, Kay Frazer; brother-in-law, Harvey Zinschlag; and stepmother, Christine Frazer.
Friends are invited to visit with the family from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Monday, October 14, 2024, at Shirley & Stout Funeral Home & Crematory, 1315 W. Lincoln Rd., Kokomo, IN 46902. Funeral service will begin at 1 p.m. on Monday at the funeral home with Pastor Jeff Evans officiating. A burial will follow at Kokomo Memorial Park Cemetery. There are not enough words to describe a life so well loved and so well lived. To carry on her legacy of love, contributions may be made in Marita’s memory to a charity of your choice.
Thomas “Tom” Lee Grinslade
Thomas “Tom” Lee Grinslade, 87, of Kokomo, passed away at 10:30 p.m. Tuesday October 8, 2024, at his home. He was born in Howard County, IN, on October 18, 1936, the son of the late John W. and Thelma (Johnson) Grinslade. On September 19, 1959, he married Patricia Shoffner in Kokomo, IN, and she survives.
Tom was a 1954 graduate of Northwestern High School. He proudly served our country in the United States Army. Tom was a hardworking lifetime farmer. He also held employment at the farm equipment store, Yeoman Stone Co. and he worked at Delco Electronics for 20 years. Tom was a member of Victory Baptist Church and Greentown Masonic Lodge. He adored his grandchildren, his dog named Shawn, and his cat named Fred.
In addition to his wife of 65 years, Tom is survived by his children, Robin (Phil) Creason, Todd (Lori) Grinslade; grandchildren, Nathan (Ginny) Creason, Zach (Lyndsie) Grinslade, Ben (Alison) Creason, Samantha (Larry Miller) Creason, Chris Ingram; great-grandchildren, Logan, Cooper, Ellie, Stella, Makenzie, Reece, Kyndele, Carter, Maddox, Nolan; several nieces and nephews; brother-in-law, Dennis (Rustee) Shoffner; and sister-in-law, Doris Cross.
He was preceded in death by his parents, sister, Beverly (Jan Wayne) Downey; brother, John (Beulah) Grinslade; and brother-in-law, Clarence Cross.
Friends are invited to visit with the family from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Tuesday, October 15, 2024, at Shirley & Stout Funeral Home & Crematory, 1315 W. Lincoln Rd., Kokomo, IN 46902. Funeral service will begin at 1 p.m. on Tuesday at the funeral home with Pastor Mike Ennis officiating. Burial will follow in Crown Point Cemetery. Military honors will be provided by the United States Army and the Kokomo VFW Military Rites Team. Contributions may be made in Tom’s memory to Victory Baptist Church. Messages of condolence may be left online at www.shirleyandstout.com.
Norma Ann Deeds
Norma Ann Deeds, a beacon of selflessness and joy, passed away peacefully on October 9, 2024, in Kokomo, IN, at the age of 79. Born on April 9, 1945, in Marion, IN, to the late Kenneth and Martha Timmons, Norma's life was a testament to her thoughtful nature and her ability to bring laughter and happiness to those around her.
Norma's formative years were spent in the close-knit community of Marion, where she graduated from Oak Hill High School in the class of 1963. Her pursuit of knowledge and a desire to help others led her to attend beauty school and later, Ivy Tech for Nursing School, where she earned her Associate’s in Nursing. Norma's professional life was marked by a remarkable dedication to caring for others, as she served as a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) for 35 years. Prior to her nursing career, she worked at Wagner’s in Wabash for 25 years, where she was known for her hard work and friendly demeanor.
Norma's life was rich with interests and hobbies that reflected her love for the outdoors and adventure. She was an avid fisher and camper, finding joy in the simplicity of nature. Her love for shopping was matched only by her enthusiasm for traveling and sightseeing, with Panama City, Florida, holding a special place in her heart. Even as she worked tirelessly in her profession, Norma never missed an opportunity to explore and experience the world around her.
Her family was the cornerstone of her life, and she is survived by her loving children, Rodney Cox (Cindy) and Kendra Cox (Terry Rayls). Norma was a cherished sister to Dennis Timmons, Tim Timmons (Cathy), and Mary Edom (Dennis). Her legacy continues through her adored grandchildren, Sarah Cox, Cody Cox (Amber), Tyler Cox (Chandell), Mason Cox, Kyle Surpas, and Haley Allbee (Zach), as well as her treasured great-grandchildren, Ava, Hunter, Ellana, and Abby. Norma's life was further enriched by the love and companionship of her late spouses, Ronald Cox and John Deeds, and she was preceded in death by her siblings, Richard Timmons and Linda Jones.
Norma's character was the epitome of selflessness. She dedicated her life to the service of others, both in her personal and professional capacities. Her patients at the nursing home were not just under her care; they were under her wing. She worked diligently until illness prevented her from doing so earlier this year. Even in her final days, Norma's concern for others never waned, as she continued to put the needs and well-being of her family and friends above her own.
Those who knew Norma will remember her for her thoughtfulness, which shone brightly in everything she did. Her sense of humor was infectious, and she had a unique ability to find the funny side of any situation, bringing smiles to even the most mundane moments. Norma's presence was a source of comfort and joy to all who had the privilege of knowing her.
As we bid farewell to Norma Ann Deeds, we celebrate a life lived with purpose, love, and an abundance of laughter. Her memory will be cherished and kept alive in the stories shared by those who loved her and in the countless lives she touched with her kindness. Norma's spirit will continue to inspire us to live each day with generosity, compassion, and a sense of humor that can light up the darkest of rooms. She will be deeply missed, but her legacy of love and service will endure forever.
City of Firsts Cremation and Funeral Services by Rose and Geiger was entrusted with the arrangements. www.cityoffirstscremations.com
Michael D. Wilcher
Michael D. Wilcher, aged 69, passed away at 10:10 a.m., on October 9, 2024, in Kokomo, Indiana, surrounded by the love of his family. Born on September 6, 1955, in Jeffersonville, Indiana, to Laurence and Florence Wilcher, both of whom preceded him in death, Michael's life was a testament to the enduring power of humor, friendship, and faith.
A proud graduate of Borden High School, Michael carried the lessons learned and friendships made there throughout his entire life. His passion for craftsmanship led him to a lifelong career as a woodworker, where his skilled hands and creative mind brought beauty and function into the homes of many.
Michael's zest for life was paralleled only by his love for sports and the great outdoors. An avid fan of IU Hoosier basketball fan and baseball, he also reveled in the joy of playing cards with friends and family. His spirit of adventure was most evident in his explorations and hiking trips with his beloved son, Micah Wilcher, and his daughter-in-law, Kyrie. These moments in nature were among his most cherished memories, as they combined his love for the environment with the precious company of his family.
Michael's life was enriched by the love and support of his siblings, who stood by him through thick and thin. He is survived by his sisters, Connie (Sterling) Houchen and Brenda (Windell) Gregory, and his brother, Donald Wilcher. The bonds they shared were unbreakable, and their collective laughter and camaraderie will be deeply missed. Michael was preceded in death by his brothers, Lawrence Wilcher and his twin, Gary Wayne Wilcher, whose memories remain a fond treasure in the hearts of the family.
One of Michael's greatest joys was being a grandfather to Talia Wilcher. His role as her grandfather was filled with the same warmth, humor, and guidance that he bestowed upon his son, creating a legacy of love that will continue to flourish in the generations to come.
Those who knew Michael will remember him as a faith-filled man who walked through life with an unwavering trust in the goodness of others. His quick wit and friendly demeanor made him a beloved figure in his community, and his ability to make others laugh was a gift he generously shared.
As we bid farewell to Michael D. Wilcher, we celebrate a life that was lived with a full heart and open arms. His was a journey marked by genuine connections, a playful spirit, and a steadfast commitment to his loved ones. Michael's legacy is one of joy, companionship, and an ever-present smile that will continue to light our way. He will be profoundly missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him, and his memory will be cherished forever.
In honoring Michael's life, we reflect on the words that best describe him: faith-filled, funny, friendly. These qualities were the cornerstones of his existence, and they are the gifts he has left behind for us to hold dear. As we gather to share stories and remember the man who touched our lives in so many ways, we take comfort in knowing that his spirit lives on in the laughter of his family, the beauty of his woodwork, and the peaceful trails he once hiked.
Michael D. Wilcher's journey on earth may have concluded, but the love he shared and the lives he impacted will resonate for eternity. May we all aspire to live with the same grace, humor, and kindness that he demonstrated every day of his life.
City of Firsts Cremation and Funeral Services by Rose and Geiger was entrusted with the arrangements. www.cityoffirstscremations.com
Patricia "Patsy" Ann Leach
Patricia "Patsy" Ann Leach, age 75, of Knoxville, Tennessee, passed away on Wednesday, October 9, 2024. She was born in Meridian, Mississippi, on December 6, 1948. Patsy then moved to Indiana, where she was raised, and attended Frankfort High School. Patsy worked for the Kokomo Tribune and Frito Lay in Frankfort, Indiana.
Preceded in death by her mother and father, Ruth and Billy Johnson; husband, John Leach; son, David Easterly; and sister, Peggy Coomer.
She is survived her nieces, Melissa Wallace of Frankfort, Cheryl Coomer of Plainfield, and Rebecca (Rashid) Lamarre of Chicago; great-nieces and great-nephews, Casey Coomer, Sylas Cooper, Reece Leverenz, Jaxon Cooper, Emerald Wallace, and Kaya Lamarre; and her lifelong friend, Kandy Johnson.
Linda Mae Remy
Linda Mae Remy, a beacon of love and creativity, passed away peacefully on October 4, 2024, in her hometown of Kokomo, IN, at the age of 74. Born on May 16, 1950, to the late John K. and Barbara E. Murphy, Linda's life was a tapestry of family, faith, and a joy for the simple pleasures in life.
Linda's journey began in Kokomo, where she was raised alongside her siblings and where she later nurtured her own family. Her life was marked by the love she had for her children, Anthony Murphy and Melissa Byrd, and her adoration for her grandchildren, Alayna Bontrager, Danyelle Emry (William), and Joshua Murphy. Linda was also blessed with several great-grandchildren and held a special place in her heart for her great-granddaughter, Mariah "Gracie" Emry. Her sisters, Edith "Ann" Stanley (Ray), Barbara Swanson, and Margie Pridemore (Clarence), will remember Linda for the bond they shared and the memories they created together. Linda's fur baby, Gidget, was a cherished companion who brought her joy and comfort.
Before retiring, Linda dedicated many years of service to Delco and Chrysler, working in the cafeteria where she was known for her kindness and warm smile. Her entrepreneurial spirit led her to become a skilled dog groomer at Grooming Guru and Dog World, where she combined her love for animals with her passion for work.
Linda's interests were a reflection of her loving and faith-filled nature. She was a talented individual who found solace in crocheting, sewing, and creating beautiful diamond paintings. Her hands were rarely still, as she loved to immerse herself in planting and fishing, activities that allowed her to appreciate the beauty of nature. A devout member of New Beginnings Church, Linda's faith was a cornerstone of her existence, guiding her through life's challenges and triumphs.
Her home was a haven of warmth, where the smell of freshly baked zucchini bread would often greet visitors. Linda's baking skills were unmatched, and she took great pleasure in sharing her culinary creations with those she loved. She was also an avid fan of her favorite television shows, which she enjoyed in the company of her family.
Linda will be remembered as a woman of great faith and creativity. Her loving nature touched the lives of all who knew her, and her legacy will continue to inspire those she has left behind. She was preceded in death by her parents, John K. and Barbara E. Murphy, and her baby siblings, Johnny and Pamela Murphy, during childbirth, as well as her beloved fur baby, GiGi.
As we bid farewell to Linda Mae Remy, we celebrate a life well-lived, filled with love, creativity, and faith. Her memory will live on in the hearts of her family, friends, and all who were fortunate enough to have known her. Linda's spirit will continue to guide us, just as the stars guide the sailors at sea, and her love will remain a comforting presence in our lives.
A life so beautifully lived deserves to be beautifully remembered. Linda Mae Remy will be deeply missed, yet her light will continue to shine in the lives of those she touched. May she rest in peace, knowing that her love will echo through generations.
City of Firsts Cremation and Funeral Services by Rose and Geiger was entrusted with the arrangements. www.cityoffirstscremations.com