Gloria Alene Vick
Gloria Alene Vick, 59, Kokomo, passed away at 12:30 p.m., Sunday, October 6, 2024, at her home. She was born in Woodbury, TN on September 24, 1965, to the late Henry and Ethel (Heflin) Vick.
Gloria graduated in 1984 from Franklin High School in Franklin, TN. She worked in the food industry, McDonald’s on Markland and Walmart for five years, Arby’s for three years, and she was a crossing guard for Kokomo Schools for six months. She was affiliated with the South Side Christian Church. Gloria loved watching TV and movies.
Gloria is survived by her son, James Hudson; brother, John Catlett; and nieces, Katelyn Catlett and Mary Catlett.
She was preceded in death by her parents, grandparents, Bertha and Spencer Heflin; and longtime friend, Mary Catlett.
A funeral service will take place at 1 p.m. on Monday, October 14, 2024, at South Side Christian Church, 201 E Markland Ave., Kokomo, with Pastors Brad Swain and Lynne Kreiger officiating. Burial will be in Albright Cemetery. Friends are invited to visit the family from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Monday at the church. Memorial contributions may be made to South Side Christian Church. Shirley & Stout Funeral Home has been entrusted with arrangements. Messages of condolence may be left online at www.shirleyandstout.com.
Michael Alan Nelson
Michael Alan Nelson passed away on Thursday, October 10, 2024.
A memorial gathering for Michael will be held Tuesday, October 15, 2024, from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Ellers Mortuary Main Chapel, 725 South Main Street, Kokomo, Indiana 46901.
Matthew James Adams
Matthew James Adams of Kokomo was born on October 10, 1992, in Kokomo to Tonya Wright and Gary Adams. He passed away unexpectedly on October 8, 2024, at the age of 31. He was a beloved father, husband, son, brother, and friend.
Matt wore his heart on his sleeve and was loved by everyone who encountered him. He brought joy to everyone around him. He had a strong and unwavering passion for baseball, attending concerts, and held a deep love for music overall. As a lifelong member of UAW Local 1166, he strived to achieve and incredible life for his loved ones.
He is survived by his beautiful children – Kaydence (14), Knox (9), Baylor (3), Axel (2), and one on the way, his beloved spouse, Kayla Salinas, two loving parents, Gary Adams and Tonya Wright, sister – Courtney Green (Kristian), brother – Gary Adams Jr. (Ashley), Niece – Sylvie, Nephews – Cruz, Miles, Nolan, and Conner, and two surviving grandparents, Mary Adams and Faye Johnson (Mike). He is preceded in death by Grandpa Jon Adams, Papaw Larry, and Mamaw Terri Wright, and many great grandparents and other family members.
The warmth of Matt’s soul, laughter, and love will be deeply missed by all of those that had the privilege of knowing him. The very first thing people would think of when they remember Matt is his humor and ability to make everyone laugh as you would find laughter everywhere you went with him. He had a very deep love for the Cincinnati Reds and Notre Dame football.
Visitation will be held on Tuesday, October 15, 2024, from 4-8 p.m. and a funeral service will be held on Wednesday, October 16, 2024, at 11 a.m. at Eller’s Mortuary at 3400 South Webster Street in Kokomo.
Colleen Leach
Colleen Leach, 97, Kokomo, passed away at 6:27 PM on Thursday, October 10, 2024, at Jefferson Manor. She was born in Greenfield, IN, on August 13, 1927, to the late Margaret Genevra (Oldham) and Joseph Wood Moulden.
Colleen lived around the Wilkinson and New Castle area until she moved to South Bend in 1948 when she married James Leroy Palmer and raised her family. After her husband passed away, she moved to Kokomo in 1972. She retired from Lazarus in 1990 then continued part time at Patti’s Place, Sher’s Boutique, and Our Friend's Closet. In 1998 she married J. Everett Leach, and he survives.
She enjoyed cooking for family and friends and especially making and sharing her “get well soup.” She also loved playing euchre, entertaining, and her family. She was a member of Fairview Baptist Church and past member of the Eagles and the Moose Lodge.
Colleen is survived by her husband, daughters; Sheri Bruhn, Linda Jackson, Jil Pence; son, Bruce Palmer; and several grandchildren and great grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her parents, grandson, Corey Clevenger; stepson, Roger Leach; stepdaughter, Sheila Ann Leech; son-in-law, Larry Pence; grandson, Jared Masser; and sister, Mary Ann Sullivan.
A funeral service will take place at 1 p.m., Wednesday, October 16, 2024, at Fairview Baptist Church, 2108 E Vaile Ave. Kokomo, IN, with Pastor Steve Sherwood officiating. Burial will follow in Albright Cemetery. Friends may visit the family from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., on Wednesday at the church. Messages of condolence may be left online at www.shirleyandstout.com.
Jay Dean Appleton
Jay Dean Appleton, 78, of Walton, passed away 4:30 a.m. Wednesday, October 9, 2024, at his home. He was born in Logansport, IN, on November 2, 1945, the son of the late Forrest and Hanna (Fultz) Appleton. On December 20, 1975, he married Linda Irene Brown, and she preceded him in death on October 10, 2022. Dean was later married in the eyes of the Lord to his companion Sandy Camp.
Dean was a 1964 graduate of Camden High School. He was a hard-working man who devoted a lot of time to several different trucking companies over his career. He was kind, reserved and a very loyal person. Dean was a member of Camden Baptist Church. He was the best caretaker which showed in the quality of his five Camaros and his lawn mower that he waxed after every use.
In addition to his companion, Dean is survived by his brothers, Brian (Pat) Appleton, Bill (Brenda) Appleton; sister-in-law, Geri Appleton; and several nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents, wife, and brother, Forrest Lee Appleton.
A graveside service will begin at 11 a.m. Wednesday, October 16, 2024, at New London Cemetery, 2104 S. County Rd. 776 W., Russiaville, IN 46979. The graveside will be officiated by Pastor Paul Veldhuizen. Stout & Son Funeral Home – Russiaville Chapel has been entrusted with arrangements. Messages of condolence may be left online at www.stoutandson.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 and baseball, he also reveled in the joy of playing cards with friends and family. Michael's passion for basketball was also shared with his son Micah where he helped him develop his love and skills of the game that got him into collegiate basketball. 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