Gail Lynne (Miller) Harding

Gail Lynne (Miller) Harding, 75, of Kokomo, passed away 6:05 p.m. Friday, December 27, 2024, at Community Howard Regional Health. She was born in Crawfordsville, IN, on August 15, 1949, the daughter of Norman Miller and Veda (McClure) Miller Lee. On October 12, 1984, she married George Harding, and he survives.

Gail is a graduate of Crawfordsville High School. She held various jobs, but her longest tenure was at RR Donnelley Technology in Crawfordsville where she produced packages for Microsoft. She was a faithful member of Grace Apostolic Ministries in Kokomo since she moved here in 2018. She cherished the time that she spent with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

In addition to her husband of 40 years, Gail is survived by her children, Michael Bryant, Jerry (Jamie) Bryant, Sherry Earl; mom, Veda Lee; stepchildren, Jim Harding, Roanna (Mike) Farris; granddaughter, Tracy (Chris) Henn; step-grandson, James (Meara) Martin; great-granddaughter, Adalynne Henn; and step-great-granddaughter, Emeryn Martin.

She was preceded in death by her father, Norman Miller; brother, Roger Miller; and stepson, Leland Miller.

A memorial service celebrating Gail’s life will begin at 1 p.m. on Saturday January 11, 2025, at Grace Apostolic Ministries, 616 Touby Pike, Kokomo, IN 46901, with Pastor Joe David Wampler officiating. Friends are invited to visit with the family from noon to 1 p.m. on Saturday at the church. Shirley & Stout Funeral Home & Crematory has been entrusted with arrangements. Messages of condolence may be made online at www.shirleyandstout.com

William “Bill” Baldwin

William “Bill” Baldwin, age 71, passed away in his home surrounded by his children on January 6, 2025. Bill is survived by his son Ryan Baldwin, daughters Rebecca Garth and Kimberly Hooper, and his grandchildren Seth, Nevaeh, Chevy, Ethan, Christian, Kaelynn, Ian, Bentley, Zachariah, and Jack; also, his brother Charles and Barb Baldwin and sister Patricia Rossman. He was preceded in death by his daughter Angela Baldwin, his father Russell, and his mother Florence. He was born in Kokomo to Russell and Florence Baldwin.

Bill was a simple man with simple pleasures. First and foremost, he loved his children and grandchildren. He was never happier than when he was with them. He lived for his grandchildren. He also loved his time spent with the Howard County Historical Society as caretaker for the Seiberling Museum. He dedicated a lot of his time to the care of the museum and was always proud of his work; especially the work he did to put up Christmas lights every year for the lighting ceremony and Christmas season.

Bill was a God-fearing man, who placed a lot of importance on his relationship with God. He lived his life, especially in the later years to honor God and care for the people around him. He was willing to give the shirt off of his back to help someone in need. Bill will be missed by all that knew him. He will always be loved and forever be in our hearts.

A funeral service for William will be held at 4 p.m. on Sunday, January 12, at Ellers Mortuary, 725 S. Main St., Kokomo, IN. A public visitation will take place from 1-4 p.m. prior to the service.

Winnie J. Shipp

On Monday, 6 January 2025, our beloved mother, Winnie J. Shipp, surrounded by her family, walked through Heaven’s gate to be with Jesus.

Winnie was born 13 September 1933, on Culpepper Mountain, to Robert C. and Dovie Eades. On 25 September 1951, she married Harold D. Shipp, in Piggott, AR. Winnie was baptized at Walton Christian Church on 15 August 1965, as was her husband, Harold D. Shipp. Winnie and Harold chose to spend their life in Walton, Indiana, to raise their children. Winnie was a loving wife, mother and grandmother, great grandmother, and great-great grandmother.

Winnie worked at Delco Electronics in Quality Control for several years before deciding to retire. During retirement, she spent time with grandchildren, Stacy and Natalie. Grandchildren Jason and Ashlee would occasionally spend time with her as well. However, retirement wouldn’t last long before she found something else to pursue. Winnie and Harold decided to move to Greenbriar, AR. While there, she enjoyed working with the local veterinarian while caring for her aging father. Her hearts passion was working with animals, and she so very much enjoyed learning about surgeries as well as assisting with various procedures. She acquired so many valuable skills, many times using those skills to help the animals she dearly loved. Early in life she raised and sold toy poodles, but later in life she enjoyed being around her cats. Just like her poodles, each of her cats held a special place in her heart.

After her dad’s passing, Winnie and Harold decided to move back to Walton to live for a few more years. During that time, she worked at Controls Inc. in Logansport, IN, enjoyed it very much and made many good friends. But once again, Harold and Winnie decided to move. This time it would be to West Union, IL, to be closer to son Bob, daughter-in-law Machelle, and granddaughter Jordan Kelsey. While living in West Union, she worked for a short time at TRW. Once again, Winnie chose to retire. Winnie very much enjoyed working and being busy, but now she wanted more time to spend with her grandchildren. Winnie attended the Christian Church in West Union, IL.

Shortly after Harold’s death in 2009, Winnie decided it was time to return to Walton to live with daughters Judy, Kathy, and Judy’s husband Coy. Here she would spend the remainder of her life. Winnie was very much loved by her family and friends.

In her free time, Winnie loved to crochet beautiful blankets, bedspreads, and christening dresses. Winnie was also an excellent seamstress. Many of her outfits were sewn by herself. And she was also very good at alterations as well as reimagining gently used clothing. Winnie loved gardening and always had a very pretty garden that produced lots of wonderful food. The grandkids loved her green beans, corn, and okra.

Winnie is survived by daughters, Judy (Coy), Kathy of Walton, and son Bob (Machelle) of Florida; grandchildren, Stacy, Natalie, Carrington (Duncan), Elijah, Alice Emily, Cameron, Gabriella, and Isabella of Indiana; Ashlee (Sven), Sven Jr., of Norway; Jason of Oklahoma; Jordan Kelsey (Kyle), Tucker, and Cole of Florida; Derek (Jessa), Eli, Johanna, Noah, Josiah, and Adrinna of Kansas; Zach (Madison), Aubrey, Adrian, Rickey, and Rayleigh of Indianapolis; sisters, Glennie of Walton and Sue of Arkansas; and several nieces and nephews.

Those preceding her in death are parents Robert & Dovie Eades; husband Harold; two children: Harold Shipp Jr., Brenda Gay Shipp; and three brothers: Jim Cato, Hartsell Cato, and John William Eades.

Visitation will be Sunday, 12 January 2025, from 2:00 -4:00 p.m. at the Murray-Weaver Funeral Home in Galveston, IN. Funeral services will be held on Monday, 13 January 2025, at 2:00 p.m. Funeral services will be officiated by Rabbi Jeff Adler. Committal service will be at Ever Rest Memorial Park with burial following.

Harold “Hal” Allen White

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Harold “Hal” Allen White, age 76, of Galveston, who left us on Sunday, January 5, 2025, at Community Heart and Vascular Hospital in Indianapolis. Hal was born on June 29, 1948, in Lakeland, Florida, to the late Howard and Lila (Enlow) White. He is now free from pain, joyfully embraced by the Lord to whom he was deeply devoted, and able to enjoy all the activities he had been missing for so many years.

In 1974, Hal married the love of his life, Mary Lou (Wilson) White. Their 50 years of marriage were marked by deep love, laughter, and unforgettable memories, including a joyous Caribbean cruise in July 2024, surrounded by friends and family to celebrate their milestone anniversary.

Hal graduated from Chamberlain High School in Tampa, Florida, in 1966, then served honorably in the United States Air Force for four years, including an overseas combat tour during the Vietnam Conflict. Later, he spent a year in the National Guard. After his service, he worked for 32 years as a service technician with GTE/Verizon, although he has been telling people for years that it was 33. In retirement, he went on to work at Miami Correctional Facility as a corrections officer for six years and drove a school bus for Lewis Cass for a few years.

An avid outdoorsman, Hal was always happiest when he was surrounded by nature. He loved snorkeling, canoeing, camping, backpacking, and fishing. But above all, his greatest joy came from spending time with his family and worshiping alongside those he loved at St. Thomas the Apostle Orthodox Church.

He would give the shirt off his back to anyone in need, and we would not be surprised to hear stories of him actually doing this. He was also dedicated to being a Boy Scout leader for several years, a role that allowed him to share his love for adventure with others. He was an NRA-certified firearms instructor and spent many years teaching the Boy Scouts, 4-H kids, and many friends and family members. Additionally, he participated in organizations that allowed him to help others such as Big Brothers, fostering, and mentoring at-risk teenagers.

Hal’s memory will be cherished by his loving wife, Mary Lou; children, Kian White, Jesse (Sarah) White, and Ben (Tarah) White; sister, Lynn Richmond; and his ten grandchildren: Trenton Harrison, Adrianna Harrison, Eliza White, Gabriel White, Dawson White, Hallie White, Lucas White, Olivia White, Everett White, and Parker White. He is also survived by five great-grandchildren, all of whom brought him endless joy. He has three special nieces, Marie Richmond, Janice Richmond, and Diana Fernandez.

He was preceded in death by his sister, Patricia Tarbell and nephew, Paul Tarbell.

The family will receive friends for visitation on Sunday, January 12, 2025, from 4:00 PM to 7:30 PM at St. Thomas the Apostle Orthodox Church in Kokomo, 914 W. Taylor St. A Panikhida memorial service will begin at 7:30 PM.

An Orthodox funeral service to honor Hal’s life will be held on Monday, January 13, 2025, at 10:00 AM at United in Faith Church of Galveston, 515 S. Maple St., Galveston. Burial will follow at Galveston Cemetery. Please return to the United in Faith Church for a mercy meal after the burial. At this time, we would love to listen to people share their stories of Hal and jam to some of his favorite tunes.

Fr. Philip Lashbrook will lead the services. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to St. Thomas the Apostle Orthodox Church.

Anita Ann Gifford

Anita Ann Gifford, 75, Kokomo, Indiana, passed away peacefully at her home surrounded by her loving family on January 6, 2025. She was born February 13, 1949, in Logansport, IN, to the late Jesse L. and Margaret (Zimpleman) Miller. On March 23, 1974, Anita married James W. Gifford Sr., who preceded her in death on February 8, 2024. Together, they shared a life filled with love and family.

Anita graduated from Kokomo High School in 1967 and went on to build a dedicated career at Delco Electronics, retiring after 30 years of service. Following her retirement, she continued to work as a vendor for Keebler.

Anita had a vibrant personality and many passions. She loved garage sales, “junkin’,” crocheting, square dancing, and was an avid reader. She also enjoyed collecting sports cards, angels, and collectible Barbies. Her caring nature touched the lives of all who knew her. Anita had attended Word of Life Church and found joy in her faith and community.

Anita was a devoted mother to her children, Alan Prater, Renée Robertson, Margaret "Susie" (Michael) Dye, Angela McKinley, James W. "Bud" Gifford Jr., and Shamra Cowan. She was a proud grandmother to a large and loving family of 57 grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She is also fondly remembered by her nephews, Phillip Meyers Jr. and family and Jesse Meyers.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, James; siblings, Jesse Miller and Merle Meyers; and great-granddaughter Rory Eller.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to Southern Care Hospice and the volunteers who lovingly assisted in Anita’s care. May her memory bring comfort to all who knew her.

A funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, January 14, 2025, at Shirley & Stout Funeral Home & Crematory, 1315 W. Lincoln Road, Kokomo, with Joe Gifford officiating. Burial will follow in Kokomo Memorial Park Cemetery. Friends may visit with the family from 4:00 to 8:00 p.m. on Monday at the funeral home. Messages of condolence may be left online at www.shirleyandstout.com.

Penelope “Penny” (Fox) Mullen

Penelope “Penny” (Fox) Mullen, 77, of Flora, passed away peacefully at home on January 5, 2024. Penny was born on December 13, 1947, in Kokomo, to the late Carl and Mildred (Garinger) Fox. Penny graduated from Eastern Howard School Corporation.

Penny married the love of her life Michael Mullen, in Sevierville, Tennessee, and they just celebrated 37 years of marriage together.

Penny was a beautician for 40-plus years. Penny served the Kokomo and Greentown area where she met many friends. In her free time, Penny enjoyed spending time with her friends, shopping, talking to anyone, and traveling to her grandchildren’s sporting events. Her most cherished pastime was spent with her loving family.

Penny is survived by her loving husband Mike Mullen; children Jenny (Jesse) Norfleet, Holly (Dan) Woolever, and Heather (Jerrie) Jackson; grandchildren Jessica (Dan) Corman, Zackery Armfield, Josh Norfleet, and Jaden Norfleet; great-grandchildren Montgomery Armfield, Arya Armfield, and Miles Corman; and sister Diane (Dewayne) Butler.

A funeral service honoring the life of Penny will be held on Tuesday, January 14, 2025, at 1 p.m., with Pastor Sean Cooper officiating, located at Murray-Weaver Funeral Home, 401 S. California St. Galveston. Friends may visit with the family from 11 a.m. until the time of the service. Burial will follow at Rankin Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made in Penny’s honor to a charity of your choice. Envelopes will be provided at the funeral home.

Murray-Weaver Funeral Home has been entrusted with arrangements. Messages of condolences may be made online at www.murrayweaverfuneralhome.com

Geneva Jewell Gibson

Geneva Jewell Gibson, a cherished matriarch and beacon of love, passed away peacefully on January 7, 2025, in Kokomo, IN, at the age of 84. Born on August 16, 1940, in Farmers, KY, Geneva was the embodiment of joy, faith, and unwavering love throughout her life.

Geneva was the beloved wife of James Ellis Gibson and the loving mother of Ronald (Anna) Parrish, Michael (Leasa Guyer) Parrish, Lori (David Pierce) Teter, James "Butch" (Rachelle) Gibson, Janie (Jim) Farr, and Jerry Gibson. She was the proud grandmother to Derrick, Tyler, Savannah, Tanesha, Tanner, Jacoby, Andrea, Cheyanne, Micaulee, Jimmy, Jessica, Chuck, Michael, Aaron, Ryan, Keara, Joey, Andrew, Jennifer, DJ, Christina, Josh, Kamista, and Jake. Her joy was further multiplied by her great-grandchildren Alexis, Zane, Gunner, Ethan, Harmony, Jerek, Tatum, Hailee, Trenton, Hayden, Damien, Xavier, Kinsley, Claire, Brayden, Mikeal, Emmalee, Rose, Caleb, and McKinlee.

Geneva's life was enriched by her siblings Bill (Wanda) Reynolds, Garth Reynolds, Dale (Lilly) Reynolds, Janice (Joe) Best, brothers and sisters-in-law Mitch (Sue) Gibson, Pam (Chris) Holland, Theresa (Steve) Roesler, and Garry (Becky) Gibson. She was preceded in death by her parents, Arlie Alan Reynolds and Mary Magdalene Alderson Reynolds, siblings Duke Reynolds, Ray Reynolds, and Vicki Boger, grandchildren Casey, Caleb, Dakota, great-grandson Zane, stepson William "Bill" Gibson, and brothers and sisters-in-law ImoJean "Ray" Reich, Bud (Beverly) Gibson, Homer (Susie) Gibson, Donnie (Kook) Gibson, Vicki Lawson, and Larry Gibson.

For 28 years, Geneva dedicated herself to a career in production at Chrysler, where she was respected for her work ethic and cherished for her camaraderie. Her colleagues remember her as a person who brought warmth and laughter to the workplace.

Geneva's heart was always with her family, which she considered her greatest treasure. She instilled in her children and their offspring the values of love, humor, and faith, which she embodied every day. Her family was her proudest accomplishment, and she was the glue that held them together.

Growing up, Geneva filled the Reynolds household with music, dancing, and singing, a testament to her spirited nature. She was the life of every party, spreading joy with her infectious laughter and loving presence. As her children grew and ventured out to create lives of their own, Geneva found comfort and delight in collecting dolls. These treasures became a symbol of her nurturing spirit and her ability to find beauty in the simple things.

Geneva's legacy is one of a life well-lived and well-loved. She was the epitome of a life rich in love, not in material wealth. Her faith was the cornerstone of her existence, guiding her through life's trials and triumphs with grace and resilience.

Those who knew Geneva will forever remember her as a loving, funny, and faith-filled soul. Her laughter, her stories, and her unwavering support will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her. Geneva Jewell Gibson's life was a testament to the power of love, and she will be remembered as a woman who loved deeply, laughed heartily, and lived faithfully.

As we bid farewell to Geneva, we celebrate her remarkable journey through life and the countless ways she touched our hearts. Her memory will live on in the lives of those she loved, as a guiding light and a source of comfort. Geneva's spirit, a blend of joy and devotion, will continue to inspire us for generations to come.

If you could see where I have gone
If you could see where I have gone,

the beauty of this place,

and how it feels to know you’re home,

to see the Savior’s face,

to wake in peace and know no fear,

just joy beyond compare,

while still on earth you miss me yet,

you wouldn’t want me there.

If you could see where I have gone,

had made the trip with me,

you’d know I didn’t go alone.

The Savior came with me.

When I awoke,

He was by my side,

and reached down His hand,

and said “Hurry, you’re going home to a grand and glorious land.”

Don’t worry over those you love,

for I’m not just with you,

and don’t you know with you at home,

they’ll long to be here, too.

If you could see where I have gone,

and see what I’ve been shown,

you’d never know another fear,

or ever feel alone.

You’d marvel at the care of God,

His hand on every life,

and realize He really cares,

and bears with us each strife.

And He weeps when one is lost,

His heart is filled with pain,

but oh the joy when one comes home,

a child at home again.

If you could see where I have gone,

could stay awhile with me,

could share the things that God has made,

to grace eternity,

but, no, you couldn’t bear to walk earth’s paths,

once heaven was your home.

If you could see where I have gone,

you’d know we’ll meet some day,

and though I’m parted from you now,

that I am just away.

So thank you wife,

thank you children,

for living for the Lord,

for encouraging me to love Him,

to trust Him and His word,

and now that I’m home with Him,

secure in every way,

I’m waiting here at Heaven’s door,

to greet you some sweet day.

Remembering and loving our precious, wife, mother and grandma.

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

Ronald “Kevin” Wheeler

Ronald “Kevin” Wheeler, 63, of Melbourne, Florida, passed away on January 2, 2025, due to complications from CIDP. Born on August 26, 1961, in Columbus, Indiana, Kevin spent his life pursuing his passions and enjoying the things he loved most.

Kevin is survived by his two daughters, Rachael Karyn Keeble and Rebecca Marie Wheeler, both of Nashville, Tennessee; his granddaughter, Cayse Keeble; and his sister, Beth Wheeler-Wilson of Kingwood, Texas. He was preceded in death by his parents, Ronald E. Wheeler and Wilma L. Wheeler of Madison, Indiana.

Kevin enjoyed working on motorcycles and hot rods, listening to classic rock music, and playing pool, a game in which he excelled. He loved the beach and the ocean, a dream he was unable to fully embrace before his passing, and had a deep appreciation for sunny days.

A service will be held at a later date.

May he have peace.

Karrie Lynn Thompson

Karrie Lynn Thompson, age 63, of Kokomo, Indiana, passed away on Sunday, January 5, 2025. She was born January 5, 1962, in Frankfort, Indiana, to the late Larry and Pamela Thompson.

Karrie was a football fanatic, though controversial she was a fan of the Colts and Green Bay. She enjoyed relaxing at home and watching the game on Sundays. Karrie found a fun way of keeping active by playing Pokémon Go while listening to the hits on 92.5. She was a caring soul and made new friends naturally. She worked over 10 years at Alto Express as a cashier; the customers always loved to see her smiling face. She spent a majority of her time with her sister, Kim. They enjoyed going to concerts together when they could. She loved her family, and she will be deeply missed by them.

Karrie is survived by her son Jordan Thompson, siblings; Kim Graham and Brian Thompson, niece Crystal King (Jason), nephews; Austin Thompson and Justin Thompson, great-nephew Seth King, and great-niece Brooklyn King.

There will be no services scheduled at this time.