Crystal Joyce (Dotson) Cornelius

Crystal Joyce (Dotson) Cornelius, age 82, of Tipton, Indiana, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, September 18, 2024, at The Waters of Tipton with her loving family by her side. She was born on September 9, 1942, in Russiaville, Indiana, to her parents, Everett & Helen (Baumgart) Dotson. On September 27, 1958, Joyce married the love of her life, Ronald Cornelius, and the two shared 65 wonderful years together, raising four children and sharing a lifetime of memories.

Joyce attended Western High School in Russiaville. She was a member of the Windfall Methodist Church, the Moose Lodge 1590, and the Elks Lodge 2073. Joyce worked several jobs over the years including work in retail, secretarial positions, and Delco. However, she preferred being a homemaker, and she did amazing things while doing the hardest job around! Joyce was the neighborhood mom to many of her children’s friends. A large group of kids would gather at her house every morning before school to catch the bus; she always engaged with all of them, making them feel special and heard. Joyce and Ronald always had a house full of kids, and they loved every second of it. As those kids got older, they became affectionately known as Mamaw & Papaw to the younger generation of those same kids that spent so much time in their home.

Joyce was known to be feisty. When her children were at the age of getting their driver's permit, they had an old car that they made them drive. Joyce and her best friend Rowell would hop into the backseat with toilet paper wrapped around their hairdos and have a grand ol’ time trying to embarrass the young driver. They would make them honk at people on the street and wave as they went by, a true rite of passage into the world of driving.

Joyce, or “General Joyce” as she was often referred to, was firm but always had her children’s best interest at heart. She was warm and caring, always making sure her family knew how much they were loved. Growing up, her family was incredibly close, and she kept the traditions going once she started her own family as well; Sunday dinners, family game nights, celebrating the holidays together. Joyce loved the Christmas holiday, baking all sorts of goodies for a full week before the celebration. She would go overboard with gifts, and for many years you couldn’t even see the tree because of the huge stack of gifts surrounding it.

Joyce and Ronald were incredibly hard workers. They would personally do without making sure their family had everything they needed. In her free time, Joyce enjoyed crocheting, sewing, cooking and baking, any kind of craft, and making floral bouquets.

They liked to travel by car all over the United States, sometimes going for weeks at a time. Every Sunday after breakfast, Joyce and Ronald would go for a drive around the town. Joyce will be deeply missed by her family.

Those left to carry on Joyce’s legacy of love are her husband, Ronald Cornelius; children, Kimberly (Jeff) Lacy, Tricia (Monty) Combs, Lori (David) Lynch, Jeff (Marqie) Cornelius; grandchildren, Jeffie Cornelius, Kara Elliott, Michael Combs, Shanna Lacy, Mallory Michel, Kelly Combs, Jenna Tolle, Taylor Webb; siblings, Sharon Pilet, Nancy Alexander, Romona Harris, Cheryl McCartney (Practice child); 16 great grandchildren, 6 great-great grandchildren, and several nieces and nephews.

Joyce was welcomed into Heaven by her parents, Everett & Helen Dotson; son in law, Monty Combs; and 7 siblings.

A funeral service celebrating Joyce’s life will be held on Monday, September 23, 2024, at 4:00 PM at Taylor & Cowan Funeral Home, located at 314 N. Main St. in Tipton with Pastor Adam Rinehart officiating. A visitation for family & friends will be held the same day from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM.

Joyce’s family would like to give a special thank you for the wonderful love and care Joyce & Ronald have received from the staff at The Waters of Tipton.

Taylor & Cowan Funeral Home is honored to serve the Cornelius family in their time of need.

Donald E. Collins

Donald E. Collins, age 77, of Marion, Indiana, passed away on Thursday, September 19, 2024, at North Woods Village. He was born to the late Malcolm R. and Glendora B. (Woodring) Collins on March 12, 1947, in Kokomo.

Donald worked for Carey Services until he retired in 2016. He participated in the Special Olympics bowling, track and field teams. Donald earned multiple medals throughout the years. He was a fan of Elvis and enjoyed fishing, cookouts, and was an avid Colts fan. Donald also enjoyed spending time with his family, roommates, and staff.

Surviving is his sister, Ida (Bob Caine) Shuck; brother-in-law, Lloyd Davis; nieces and nephews, Ed Myers, Jessica Shuck, Melissa Wininger, Rhonda Davis, Amber Hatfield, and Ray Myers; many great nieces and nephews; and great-great nieces and nephews.

Preceding in death are his parents; sister, Blanche Davis; stepsister, Pam Brown; and stepfather, Albert Franklin.

There will be a time of visitation for Donald on Thursday, September 26, 2024, from 12:00 PM until the time of service at 1:00 PM at Ellers Mortuary Webster Chapel, 3400 South Webster Street, Kokomo, IN. Burial will follow at Crown Point Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made in Donald's memory to the Special Olympics Indiana, envelopes will be provided at the mortuary.

Sara Jayne Bultman

Sara Jayne Bultman, 72, Kokomo, passed away peacefully Tuesday, September 17, 2024, at her home. She was born November 13, 1951, in New Castle, IN, the daughter of the late James Roy and Norma Delberta (Tetrick) Leo. On November 17, 1967, she married the love of her life, Danny J. Bultman, who proceeded her in death on March 27, 1994.

Sara came from humble beginnings. She grew up in the small town of Milton, IN, the youngest of four children. She attended the Milton School as a child and later graduated from Connersville High School. Sara would later return to school as a mother and graduate from Indiana University at Kokomo in 1983 with an Associate’s Degree in Computer Science. She worked at Insight (Telecable) for 18 years, serving in various roles until leaving as the Pay-Per-View Manager. After leaving she worked at GTE Westfield and Key Bank Kokomo. Sara was a child of God, never losing her faith in Him. She was a fierce prayer warrior for friends and her entire family. She was active in the church for many years, serving in various roles from a Sunday school teacher, choir member, and on the worship team. She attended New Life Church, formerly Southside Assembly, First Assembly of God and In His Image Church. Sara was a loving mother, wife, and friend to anyone who crossed her path throughout life, always placing the needs of others before her own. Sara’s greatest joy in life came when she became a “Mamaw” to her grandson Eli, whom she admired and adored with all her heart. She loved talking with and spending every moment she could with him. It gave her great joy and happiness.

Sara is survived by her son, Mike (Ellen) Bultman; grandson, Eli Bultman; and sister, Lois (Wes) Wojtas, along with several nieces and nephews

Sara was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Danny; daughter Jeri Michelle Bultman, her precious angel; and siblings, James “Jimmy” Leo and Linda “Sue” Moore.

Funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m. Friday, September 27, 2024, at Shirley & Stout Funeral Home & Crematory, 1315 W. Lincoln Road, Kokomo. Burial will follow in Albright Cemetery. Friends are invited to visit with the family from 4-8 p.m. Thursday at the funeral home. Messages of condolence may be left online at www.shirleyandstout.com.

Richard D. Culbertson

Richard D. Culbertson, 81, Kokomo, was gathered into the arms of his savior at 12:25 a.m., Saturday, September 7, 2024, at his daughter’s home. He was born on December 9, 1942, to the late Russell P. and Betty Lou (Mullen) Culbertson. On October 10, 1964, In Kokomo, he married Diana L. Fowler. She preceded him in death December 22, 2016. On June 23, 2018, in Kokomo, he married Linda L. Cheek, and she survives.

Dick graduated from Kokomo High School in 1961 and attended Indiana University. He worked for General Motors, becoming one of a very few to achieve 8th level without a college degree. He spent his career mentoring and finding the potential in his employees to help them grow in their careers.

He was a member of the First Church of the Nazarene, now known as One Church. He had been pastoring at Christian Life Fellowship in Peru. Richard always began his sermons by saying “Jesus is the sweetest name I know.” He lived out his faith in his everyday life. He was dedicated to going on mission trips and sharing the love of God. Dick loved time with family and enjoyed golfing and many adventures traveling the United States on his motorcycle.

Along with his wife Linda, Richard is survived by his children, Tawni (Michael) Harris, Chantel (Chad) Kebrdle, Bryan Culbertson; “adopted daughter”, Pam (Dave) Mobley; grandchildren, Elliott (Brook) Harris, Lijah Harris, Grace Harris, Zion Harris, Alec Kebrdle (Chelsea Abney), Ruby Boor, Cassidy (Brad) Thurber, and Jerry Rust; great-grandchild, Asher Thurber; sisters, Carolyn Lavengood, Diana Evans, and Kathryn (Michael) Sikorski; brother, John (Sherry) Culbertson; and several nieces & nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; and his first wife of 52 years, Diana L. (Fowler) Culbertson.

A funeral service will take place at 2 p.m. on Saturday, October 5, 2024, at One Church, 2734 S Washington St., Kokomo. Friends may visit with the family from 12 p.m to 2 p.m. on Saturday at the church. Shirley & Stout Funeral Home & Crematory has been entrusted with arrangements. Memorial contributions may be made to Birthright of Kokomo. Messages of condolence may be left online at www.shirleyandstout.com.

Samuel Gibbs

Samuel Gibbs, affectionately known as "Sammy Sosa" by those who loved him, departed this world on September 2, 2024, at the age of 33. Born on October 23, 1990, in Kokomo, Indiana, to Debrah (Lee Likens) Gibbs and Carl Davis, Samuel's vibrant spirit and generous heart were evident from an early age. His passing in his hometown of Kokomo has left a void in the hearts of all who knew him.

Samuel's life was rich with family and friendship. He was a beloved son, a cherished brother to his sisters Jacquleine Alexander, Sarah Gifford, Carah Gifford, Jessica Gifford, and his brothers Tyler Walker, Nick Walker, Brock Moody, and Jimmy Gifford. As a devoted boyfriend, he shared many joyful moments with his partner, Ashley Craig. Samuel's close-knit circle of friends, including special friends Jacqueline Renshaw and Tyffani Breickler, will remember him for his unwavering loyalty and the warmth he brought to their lives.

He was a familiar face at Park 100, where his work ethic and collaborative spirit made him a valued team member. Samuel's dedication to his job was matched by his involvement in his community, where he was known to lend a helping hand whenever and wherever it was needed.

Sammy Sosa was a man of many passions. His love for the NFL was only rivaled by his affection for music. His enthusiasm was contagious, and he could often be found sharing his love for the game or a good tune with friends and family. Samuel's ability to bring joy to everyday moments was one of his most endearing qualities. He was always impeccably dressed, believing that looking good was part of feeling good, and he carried this philosophy into every aspect of his life.

Those who had the privilege of knowing Samuel knew of his incredible capacity for love. He was amazing with children, and his big heart found its greatest expression in his interactions with the young ones in his life. His propensity for giving the best hugs ensured that every greeting and farewell was a memorable one.

Samuel's life was a testament to the virtues of friendliness, love, and courage. His friendly demeanor won him many friends, his loving nature enriched the lives of his family, and his courageous spirit inspired those around him to be better versions of themselves.

As we bid farewell to Samuel Gibbs, we celebrate a life lived with purpose and joy. His legacy is one of compassion, kindness, and an unwavering commitment to making the world a happier place. It is with heavy hearts that we say goodbye, but we take solace in knowing that his spirit will continue to guide and comfort us as we navigate the path ahead.

Sammy Sosa's memory will be cherished and kept alive through the stories shared by those who loved him and the countless lives he touched. Samuel may have left this world too soon, but the imprint he left on our hearts is indelible. His laughter, his love, and his light will endure, reminding us always of the extraordinary person we were so fortunate to know.

City of Firsts Cremation and Funeral Services by Rose and Geiger was entrusted with the arrangements. www.cityoffirstscremations.com