Obituaries, December 14, 2024

Written on 12/14/2024


Baileigh Jenise Hollins

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Ms. Baileigh Jenise Hollins, who departed this life on December 8, 2024, at the tender age of 15. Baileigh was born on October 6, 2009, and during her brief time with us, she touched the lives of many with her vibrant spirit and infectious smile.

Baileigh's presence illuminated the lives of those around her. She was known for her kind heart and the joy she brought to her family and friends. Her laughter filled every room, and her generous nature inspired those fortunate enough to know her.

A visitation honoring Baileigh will be held on December 14, 2024, from 10:00 AM to 12:30 PM at Taylor High School, located at 3794 E 300 S, Kokomo, IN 46902. Following the visitation, a funeral service will take place at the same location, commencing at 12:30 PM and concluding at 2:00 PM.

As we gather to celebrate Baileigh's life, let us remember the beautiful moments she shared with us and the indelible mark she has left on our hearts. Her memory will forever be cherished by those who loved her.



Elizabeth Ashley Gaddis

Elizabeth Ashley Gaddis, 41, Kokomo, passed away Tuesday, December 10, 2024. She was born November 13, 1983, the daughter of Scott Horton and Monica (Brown) Rayl. On February 19, 2016, in Peru, IN, she married Nicholas “Nik” Gaddis who survives. Ashley was a beloved wife, mother, daughter, sister, and friend who touched the lives of many with her creativity and vibrant spirit.

A graduate of Ivy Tech Community College, Ashley worked for Chrysler Corporation and spent several years as a server at Hacienda and IHOP. Her dedication to her work was matched only by her passion for creativity. Ashley had a love for makeup and fashion that reflected her artistic nature. She enjoyed coloring and arts and crafts, often creating beautiful pieces that showcased her talent.

Ashley was a member of Fellowship of Hope Church, where she found community and faith. She treasured family vacations that created lasting memories with loved ones. Above all else, she found immense joy in spending time with her daughter, Nevaeh.

Along with her husband Nik, Ashley is also survived by her mother, Monica Rayl; father, Scott Horton; two daughters, Nevaeh Fouce and Shelby Gaddis, with whom she cherished countless moments of joy and love; her siblings, Destanie Zell, Nick Horton, Kyle Horton and Michael Zell; her sisters-in-law, Brandi Ohrt and Kayla Jones; and her nieces and nephew, Livi, Elijah, and RaeLeigh. Elizabeth’s loyal dog Scar will miss her dearly.

She was preceded in death by her beloved dog, Bruno.

Ashley’s warmth and creativity will be deeply missed by those who knew her. May her memory bring comfort to all who were fortunate enough to share in her life.

A Funeral service will be held at 6:00 p.m. Tuesday, December 17, 2024, at Shirley & Stout Funeral Home, Jefferson Street Chapel, 414 W. Jefferson Street, Kokomo. Friends are invited to visit with the family from 4-6 p.m. Tuesday at the funeral home. Memorial contributions may be made in Ashley’s memory to Fellowship of Hope Church.



Kelly Marie Bunce

Kelly Marie Bunce, age 56, of Kokomo, Indiana, passed away on Wednesday, December 11, 2024, at her residence. She was born to the late Woodrow Wilson and Becky Colleen (Hinkle) Hubbard in Kokomo, Ind., on April 1, 1968.

Kelly was a homemaker. Her children and grandchildren were her entire world. Kelly had a huge heart and always put others before herself. She enjoyed celebrating the holidays with her family and was a great cook. People never left with an empty stomach. Kelly enjoyed being outside, gardening her flowers or just soaking up the sun. People were always welcomed to her home. She was known for having the fun yard and neighborhood children loved playing there. Kelly enjoyed listening to country music. She was also very ornery and always looking at the finer things in life.

Kelly is survived by her two children, Jordan (Misti) Bunce, of North Manchester, and Megan (Will) Hunter, of Kokomo; nine grandchildren, Becka Bunce, Elijah Smith, Audrie Bunce, Dominick Bunce, Lilly Bunce, Willow Bunce, Sophia Bunce, Zane Hunter, and Isabelle Hunter; three siblings, Jim Hubbard, Tina Reed, and Toby Hubbard; two nieces and seven nephews; and her former husband, who she remained closed to, Randy Gillem.

Kelly is preceded in death by her parents; sister, Jennifer Cox; and niece, Heather Cox.

The family will have a Celebration of Life at a later date.



Charles "C.V." Woodring

Charles "C.V." Woodring, a cherished father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, and friend, passed away peacefully on December 9, 2024, in his hometown of Kokomo, IN, at the age of 74. Born on August 6, 1950, to the late Roscoe "Woody" and Fern Woodring, C.V. was a man whose laughter and kindness left a lasting impression on all who knew him.

C.V. was a proud graduate of Kokomo High School, where he formed bonds and memories that lasted a lifetime. Following high school, he honorably served his country in the Army from 1969 to 1971, demonstrating the courage and dedication that would become hallmarks of his character. C.V.'s work ethic and versatility in his professional life earned him the reputation of a "Jack of all trades." He brought this same commitment and passion to his involvement with the Windfall Christian Church, where he was a valued member of the community.

A man of many interests, C.V. was an avid sports enthusiast. He was a loyal fan of the Cubs and the Colts, and he found joy in watching NASCAR and other sports on television. His love for bowling, golf, and softball was more than just pastime activities; they were avenues through which he formed lasting friendships and celebrated victories, including a hole-in-one at Big Cyprus Golf Course in Florida in 2021 and a win at a match play tournament in 2020. C.V. was also known for his skill at the card table, particularly when playing euchre, and he enjoyed the quiet concentration of working on puzzles.

Family was the cornerstone of C.V.'s life. He is survived by his loving daughters, Catherine (Michael) Porter and Anita (Shawn Lucas) Woodring and honorary daughter Stephnie Robinson Hunt. His legacy extends to his cherished grandchildren, Samantha, Michael, and Tori Copeland, and Avery Lucas, as well as his adored great-grandchildren, Brilen Copeland, Jadia Hutchison, Anthony Myka Kayne David, and Charlie Robin Jo David. C.V. was a brother to Fern (Youssef Beshir) Fennell, Bonnie (Robert) Virden, Cecelia (Lewis) Clinton, Mildred McKenna, Pam (John) Frazee, and Melodie (Mark) Jennings. This same generous spirit extended to his lifelong best friend, Dave (Jan) Turner, with whom he shared countless memories and adventures. He was preceded in death by his daughter Brandie Copeland, his sister Debbie Cuthbert, and his brother Thomas Woodring.

C.V.'s sense of humor, generosity, and handy nature were the essence of his being. He could light up a room with his wit and fill a space with laughter. His ability to fix anything and everything made him the go-to person in his family and circle of friends.

C.V. will be deeply missed by his many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends who found in him a source of joy and inspiration. His absence will be felt at family gatherings, on the golf course, and anywhere his laughter once echoed. Yet, his spirit will live on in the stories told, the memories cherished, and the love he shared.

As we say goodbye to Charles "C.V." Woodring, we celebrate a life well-lived—a life filled with love, laughter, and the precious moments that bind us together. His journey on earth may have ended, but his influence will continue to be felt by all who were fortunate enough to know him. C.V.'s story is one of a life embraced fully, a life that serves as a testament to the power of kindness, friendship, and family.

A Celebration is in the planning stages for C.V. Dates will be updated asap.