The Voice of Blackford County community newspaper

07/23/2025

Myron D. Love, 82
He is the father of Leslie Love (husband, Dwight) Brewer, of Montpelier, and Jodi Love (husband, Paul) Catterson, of Montpelier
He was born on Sunday, Aug. 30, 1942, in Hartford City
He attended Montpelier High School

Myron D. Love, 82, of Montpelier, passed away at 10:35 a.m. on Wednesday, July 16, 2025, at Lutheran Hospital of Indiana, Fort Wayne.
He was born on Sunday, Aug. 30, 1942, in Hartford City to Guy Jarrett and Hazel Ruth (Dill) Love.
Myron married Sherry Taylor Love on Thursday, Nov. 22, 1962, in Montpelier.
He attended Montpelier High School.
Myron attended Cornerstone Church of the Nazarene, Montpelier.
He worked at RCA, Marion, and later retired from Fisher Body, Marion, after 35 1/2 years of employment.
Myron was a member of the Fisher Body Sympathy Club, Retread Motorcycle Club and the U.A.W #977.
He will be sadly missed by his wife, Sherry E. (Taylor) Love, of Berne; daughters, Leslie Love (husband, Dwight) Brewer, of Montpelier, and Jodi Love (husband, Paul) Catterson, of Montpelier; son-in-law, Bob Guntle, of Portland; sisters, Irene Love, of Oklahoma, and Marolyn Love, Oklahoma; grandchildren, Brett Stevens, Brandi Wheeler, Brittani Hendel, Zach Guntle, Matthew Brewer, Wesley Brewer, Kyra Catterson, Josie Abraham and Brinna Catterson; 15 great-grandchildren; several nieces and nephews that he loved dearly.
Myron was preceded in death by his parents, daughters. Connie (Love) Guntle and Beverly (Love) Trees, brothers, Gerald Love, Larry Love, Lavaugh Love Keith Love and Harold Love, and sisters, Alice Lee, Dorothy Jester, LaVerne Winans, Mary Jean Carver, Betty Rinker, Maxine Hallas, Margaret Slentz and Carolyn Love.
Family and friends gathered to share and remember at Walker & Glancy Funeral Home, 109 W. Windsor St., Montpelier, on Sunday, July 20, 2025.
A service to celebrate Myron’s life was at Walker & Glancy Funeral Home, Montpelier, on Monday, July 21, 2025, with Pastor Jesse Johnson officiating.
Interment followed in Brookside Memorial Park Cemetery, Montpelier.
Preferred memorials may be made to Cornerstone Church of the Nazarene, 440 N. Standard Blvd., Montpelier, IN 47359.
Arrangements were handled by Walker & Glancy Funeral Home, Montpelier.
Online condolences may be made at www.glancyfuneralhomes.com

07/22/2025

Brigitte A. Wallace, 65
She was born on March 18, 1960, in Hartford City

Brigitte A. Wallace, 65, of Marion (Upland), passed away on Thursday, July 17, 2025, at AMG Specialty Hospital, Muncie.
She was born on March 18, 1960, in Hartford City to the late Robert and Barbara (Maddox) Winans.
Brigitte graduated from Madison-Grant High School, Fairmount, in 1978.
She retired from the Wal-Mart Distribution Center, Gas City, and also had worked as a cashier at Taylor University's student center, Upland.
Earlier in her career, Brigitte was employed at Thomson Consumer Electronics, Marion, and Pierce Governor, Upland.
She enjoyed shopping, gardening, swimming, bike riding, attending concerts, traveling and riding motorcycles.
Brigitte loved spending time with her family and especially adored her grandchildren and her beloved dog, Maggie.
On March 28, 1987, she married William E. "Bill" Wallace Jr., who preceded her in death on October 23, 2024.
Survivors include her children, Joshua Wallace, of Upland, and Jessica (Adam) Ormsby, of Gas City; grandchildren, DaVon "Bubby" Wallace, Avah Ormsby and Eli Ormsby; siblings, Wayne "Wally" (Susie) Winans, of Anderson, Lana (Jerry) Davis, of Fairmount, Debbie Prickett, of Upland, and Mary (Doug) Klinger, of Warsaw.
Brigitte also is lovingly remembered by her nieces and nephews.
In addition to her husband and parents, she was preceded in death by her father- and mother-in-law, William and Mary Wallace.
A visitation will be on Tuesday, July 22, 2025, from 2 to 6 p.m. at Armes-Hunt Fairmount Chapel, 415 S. Main St., Fairmount.
A funeral service will follow at 6 p.m. with Pastor Katie Vermilion officiating.
Cremation will take place after the service.
Memorial contributions may be made to the American Lung Association, National Direct Response Headquarters, P.O. Box 756, Osceola, WI 54020-0756.
Memories and condolences may be shared online at www.armeshuntfuneralhome.com

07/22/2025

Stephanie Elin Collins-Weaver, 46
She is the daughter of Jerry Lee and Susan Elin Collins, of Hartford City
She graduated from Blackford High School, Hartford City, in 1996
She was active in the Drama Club and had a deep appreciation for the arts
She a 10-year 4-H member

Stephanie Elin Collins-Weaver, 46, of Muncie, passed away unexpectedly on Wednesday, July 16, 2025, at her residence in Muncie.
She was born in Indianapolis on August 6, 1978, to Jerry Lee Collins and Susan Elin (Carlson) Collins.
Stephanie graduated from Blackford High School, Hartford City, in 1996 and attended Ball State University, Muncie.
She was active in the Drama Club and had a deep appreciation for the arts.
Stephanie worked as a unit secretary in the Cardiac Progressive Care Unit at IU Health Ball Memorial Hospital, Muncie.
A 10-year 4-H member, she enjoyed cake decorating and the Dairy project.
Stephanie's passion for words inspired her poetry writing.
She also loved to sew.
Stephanie loved to laugh and smile and spend time with her family.
She married Jeremy Lee Weaver on April 9, 2022, in Muncie.
Stephanie will be sadly missed by her husband, Jeremy Lee Weaver, of Muncie; sons, Collin Jacob Anderson, of Muncie, Karl Weaver, of Anderson, and Brody Weaver, of Muncie; daughter, Laurel Weaver, of Muncie; parents, Jerry Lee and Susan Elin Collins, of Hartford City; her father-in-law, Robert (wife, Julie) Weaver, of New Castle; mother-in-law, Ella Hedges, of New Castle; aunts and uncles, Steve and Darlene Carlson, Carol Sue and Rob Everest and Peggy E. Collins; several cousins.
She is preceded in death by her son, Lincoln Weaver, uncle, Larry Collins, and grandparents, Austin and Waneta Collins and Clarence E. and Bess M. Carlson.
Celebration of Life for Stepanie will be at 6 p.m. on Wednesday, July 23, 2025, at Keplinger Funeral Home, 509 N. High St., Hartford City, with Pastor Troy Kaufman officiating.
Memorial visitation will be from 3 to 6 p.m. on Wednesday, July 23, 2025, at the funeral home.
Memorials may be made to donor’s choice
Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.keplingerfuneralhome.com or use our Keplinger Funeral Home page.

07/22/2025

https://www.facebook.com/share/p/16nVFhwowS/

The Back to School Carnival is less than a week away!
Remember, you can find all the school supply lists here:
https://www.blackfordschools.org/o/bcs/page/registration-and-immunizations

07/21/2025

Billy Jerome Bastin, 77

Billy Jerome Bastin, 77, of Gas City, passed away on Monday, July 14, 2025, at Summit Health and Living.
He was born in Horse Cave, Ky., to Loyd “Baltimore” Bastin and Lelia (Wilson) Bastin. His parents preceded him in death.
Billy married Deborah L. Miller on February 25, 1971, in Marion. She preceded him in death on June 17, 2025.
He graduated from Caverna High School, Horse Cave, Ky.
Billy retired from Moorman's Feed and Grain, Bluffton, where he had been a sales representative.
He was an avid fisherman and loved to be outdoors. If he wasn’t fishing, he enjoyed golfing and cooking things in his smoker.
Billy also was a very avid bowler and bowled in a league at Crest Lanes, Marion, for years.
He will be sadly missed by his children, Brooke E. (husband, Jeff) Sands, of Marion, Matthew T. (wife, Tonya) Bastin, of Muncie, and Todd A. Bastin, of Indianapolis; his grandchildren, Dakota (wife, Logan) Bastin, Kelsey (husband, Daniel) Shook, Trevor Smith, Kylie (fiancé, Brian) Smith, Logan Smith, Levi Smith (companion, Marah Shaffer), Lyla Smith and Lance Sands; great-grandchildren, Arabelle Shook and Ryker Peacock; his sister, Shirley (husband, Donny); as well as several nieces and nephews.
Billy is preceded in death by his parents, wife, and siblings, Denny, Sarah, Dale, Gene, Gail and Amanda.
The family had a private Celebration of Life for Billy.
Keplinger Funeral Home, 509 N. High St., Hartford City, was in charge of arrangements.
Memorials may be made to Prevent Child Abuse Grant County, P.O. Box 13, Marion, IN 46953.
Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.keplingerfuneralhome.com or on our Keplinger Funeral Home page.

07/21/2025

Marianna Smith, 89
She graduated from Hartford City High School in 1953
She sang at First Christian Church, Hartford City
She was nominated by Hartford City to be in the Mermaid Festival Parade, North Webster
She was a member of the Elks Auxiliary and Moose Auxiliary

Marianna Smith, 89, of Hartford City, passed away on Friday, July 11, 2025, at Marion General Hospital.
She was born on July 24, 1935, to Everett Francis Baker and Beulah Louise (Piquet) Baker. Her parents preceded her in death.
Marianna graduated from Hartford City High School in 1953, where she was a cheerleader all four years.
She married the love of her life, Billie “Bill” Franklin Smith, at Grace United Methodist Church, Hartford City, on August 13, 1959. He preceded her in death on February 20, 2015.
Marianna loved her family and was a devoted wife and mother.
She loved to take care of her home. She truly loved cleaning the house and working in her yard.
Marianna loved to host and enjoyed cooking for and feeding everyone. It didn’t matter if it was the kid’s friends or her own family, she always enjoyed the company and made everyone feel welcome.
She was very artistic, and one of her favorite passions was designing clothing for herself and then hiring a seamstress to sew them together.
Marianna did a lot of wood burning for enjoyment and even took orders for other people.
In their swimming pool at home, she painted an octopus in the shallow end and her husband, Bill, painted a swordfish in the deep end.
Marianna truly had a gift when it came to design and artistic ability.
She had a tender heart and was always quick to give a complement or a hug every chance she got.
Marianna was a very empathetic person. If you cried, she would cry right along with you.
She was a truly caring person, even taking care of her mother in her final days of life.
Marianna also had a great sense of humor and appreciated a good laugh.
She loved to watch old movies and listen to old songs. A Song To Remember was her favorite movie and her favorite song was Chopin Polonaise.
Marianna never forgot a singer or actor’s name, with Shirley Temple and Elvis being some of her favorites.
She was a talented singer herself. She sang at First Christian Church, Hartford City, when she was so small that they had to set her up on a chair.
The love of singing followed Marianna all through her life. She sang in a popular trio around the lakes, on Muncie PBS TV, on The Canteen Show and at The Marion V.A.
She was nominated by Hartford City to be in the Mermaid Festival Parade, North Webster.
Marianna also sang at the Centennial Ball, Eaton, and at many weddings throughout the years.
She also had a knack for spelling. It didn’t matter what the word was, she could spell it off the top of her head.
In their younger years, Marianna and Bill also enjoyed going out dancing whenever they got the chance.
She also collected blankets for the animal shelter any chance she got.
Marianna was a woman of faith and was baptized by her son, Bret, in 1996.
She truly loved people and never met a stranger in her life even up to the day she died.
Marianna was a member of the Elks Auxiliary and Moose Auxiliary.
In her younger years she worked at Eaton Elementary School as the home mother while her children were in school.
Marianna also helped to demonstrate new products in the family grocery store from time-to-time.
She will be sadly missed by her children, Bret N. (wife, Lisa M.) Smith, of Muncie, Sian A. (husband, Gregory) Roberds, of Lexington, Ill., and Douglas C. Smith, of Muncie; grandchildren, Justin N. Smith, Aaron B. (wife, Monique) Smith and Christopher A. Roberds; great-grandchildren, Serenity I. Lehman, Lillyana N. Roberds, Elle M. Smith, Reese A. Smith and Dominyk E. Roberds; her sister, Lois A. Rench, of Hartford City; as well as several nieces and nephews.
Marianna is preceded in death by her parents and husband as well as a grandson, Daniel E. Roberds, and her brother, Alan E. Baker.
Funeral service for Marianna will be on Monday, July 21, 2025, at 1 p.m. at Keplinger Funeral Home, 509 N. High St., Hartford City, with entombment following at Gardens of Memory Mausoleum, Muncie.
Visitation will be on Monday, July 21, 2025, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the funeral home.
Memorials may be made to Blackford County Animal Shelter, 2520 N. 200 E., Hartford City, IN 47348 or to A.R.F., 1209 W. Riggin Rd., Muncie, IN 47303.
Online condolences may be sent to www.keplingerfuneralhome.com or by using the Keplinger Funeral Home page.

07/20/2025

Donald Gene Ballenger, 81
He was born in Hartford City
He was a proud graduate of Roll High School, Class of 1961

Donald Gene Ballenger, 81, of Marion, passed away at 1:12 p.m. on Monday, July 14, 2025, in his home.
He was born in Hartford City on Wednesday, March 22, 1944, to John D. Ballenger and Pauline F. (Bennett) Chick.
A proud graduate of Roll High School, Class of 1961, Donald went on to serve his country honorably in the United States Navy.
He later dedicated 36 years of hard work to Dana Corporation, Marion, before retiring.
Donald was a proud member of AmVets and a devoted fan of IU basketball and C**ts football.
On May 10, 1994, he married the love of his life, Mary A. (Weir) Ballenger, with whom he shared many cherished years until her passing.
Donald is survived by his daughters, Lisa A. Ballenger, of Huntington, and Tracy L. Ballenger, of Fairmount; stepdaughters, Erin Beals, and Alexis (Beals) Stone; eight grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren; brother, Michael Ballenger; sister, Maxine Miller.
He was preceded in death by his loving wife, Mary Ballenger, parents, brothers, Robert Chapman, John W. Ballenger, Richard A. Ballenger and Samuel E. Ballenger, and sister, Paula S. Monroe.
In accordance with Donald's wishes, there will be no public visitation or funeral service, but a celebration of life will be at a later date.
Arrangements are entrusted to Needham-Storey-Wampner Funeral & Cremation Service, North Chapel, 1341 N. Baldwin Ave., Marion.
Memories may be shared online at www.nswcares.com

07/20/2025

Elizabeth A. Foxx, 95

Elizabeth A. Foxx, beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother and cherished member of our community, passed away peacefully at the age of 95 on Thursday, July 3, 2025, at her residence.
Born on March 16, 1930, to Alkaniah Norton Fensel and Iris Luella Bell, she grew up surrounded by the love of her family and the values that shaped her life - kindness, faith and an unwavering dedication to those she loved.
Elizabeth married George Lee Cooper and together they built a life centered around family and hard work.
After George’s passing in 1968, she continued to be the rock for her family, raising her children and ensuring their futures were filled with opportunity and love.
In later years, Elizabeth found companionship and joy with her second husband, Hughie L. Foxx, with whom she shared many happy years.
She was the proud mother of Cathleen A. Cooper and George E. Cooper and daughter-in-law, Jerri P. Cooper.
Elizabeth found immense joy in her growing family, including her grandchildren, Melissa A. Goode (Stanley L. Goode), Shawn M. Cooper, Samantha N. Cooper and Eric B. Cooper.
Her legacy continues through her great-grandchildren, Colin J. Goode, Patrick L. Goode, Aden D. Cooper, Riley M. Cooper, Annabella E. Cooper- O’Neal, Alannah R. Cooper-O’Neal, Wyatt A. Cooper and Dean O. Cooper; many other family members, who are not listed here.
Known for her warmth, sharp wit and deep love for her family, Elizabeth was often found sharing stories of her upbringing, offering wise advice, or simply enjoying the company of those around her.
She carried forward the rich legacy of the Bell and Wheeler families, as well as the enduring strength passed down from generations of her ancestors.
Elizabeth’s life was a testament to resilience, devotion and unconditional love.
She will be remembered for her unwavering support, nurturing spirit and the beautiful memories she created with those fortunate enough to know her.
Elizabeth leaves behind a family that will forever cherish her memory and strive to honor her through their lives.
A private family service was conducted to celebrate her life at Woodlawn Cemetery, Montpelier.
Lowe Funeral Home, 2205 S. Church St., Burlington, N.C. was in charge of arrangements.

07/20/2025

Scott S. McCaffery, 57
He is the brother of Kevin (Candace) McCaffery, of Eaton, and David (Stephanie) McCaffery, of Hartford City
He is the nephew of John Raymond McCaffery, of Hartford City, Tim McCaffery, of Dunkirk, Vicki (Jim) Sandoe, of Hartford City, Denise Kleefisch, of Hartford City, and Kenny Reynolds, of Hartford City.
He was a former resident of Hartford City

Scott S. McCaffery, 57, of Dunkirk, formerly of Hartford City, passed away on Saturday, July 12, 2025, at IU Health Ball Memorial Hospital, Muncie, surrounded by his loving family.
He was born on July 31, 1967, in Hartford City to the late Paul McCaffery and Nancy (Moore) McCaffery.
Scott was a man of many talents and even more stories.
Known for his quick wit and easy conversation, he truly never met a stranger.
Scott spent many years working as a skilled painter and contractor, often side-by-side with his brothers and uncle.
When he wasn’t working, he could be found enjoying the outdoors - fishing, camping and collecting vintage outdoor gear, a hobby he loved deeply.
Scott is survived by his longtime partner of over ten years, Susan McGhee; his children, C**t McCaffery (Deanna), Scott McCaffery Jr. (Abby) and Kylie McCaffery; his grandchildren, Everleigh Wilson and Salem McCaffery.
He also is survived by his siblings, Paul McCaffery Jr., of Kokomo, Paula (Ryan) Fifer, of Bryant, Kevin (Candace) McCaffery, of Eaton, and David (Stephanie) McCaffery, of Hartford City; his adopted brother, Scott McGhee; his uncles and aunts, John Raymond McCaffery, of Hartford City, Diana Hare, of Lobelville, Tenn., Tim McCaffery, of Dunkirk, Cyle McCaffery, of Lobelville, Tenn., David (Jacki) Moore, of Muncie, Vicki (Jim) Sandoe, of Hartford City, Denise Kleefisch, of Hartford City, and Kenny Reynolds, of Hartford City; along with many nieces, nephews and cousins.
In addition to Scott's daughter Taylor, who passed on May 4, 2020, and his father, Paul, who passed on April 23, 2022, he also was preceded in death by his uncles and aunts, Charles “Andy” Moore, Steven Moore, Margaret Phillips, Mary Joan Tucker, Garrett "Dan" McCaffery, Bill McCaffery, George McCaffery and Carolyn "Sue" Powers, and his grandparents, Neil F. and Phyllis Moore and Sherman W. and Anna McCaffery, as well as other cherished family and friends.
He will be remembered for his kind heart, his sense of humor and his love of family and nature.
Scott's stories, laughter and presence will be deeply missed.
Family and friends gathered to share and remember at Walker & Glancy Funeral Home, 109 W. Windsor St., Montpelier, on Wednesday, July 16, 2025.
A celebration of life service followed with Pastor Kevin Lex officiating.
A private burial followed at I.O.O.F. Cemetery, Montpelier.
Arrangements were handled by Walker & Glancy Funeral Home, Montpelier.
Burial took place at Brookside Cemetery, Montpelier.

07/17/2025

Teresa Sue (Thrailkill) Conner, 64
She was a 1979 graduate of Blackford High School, Hartford City
She was employed in the school system, spending the early part of her career at St. John’s Riedman Memorial School, Hartford City, and finishing it with Blackford County Schools, Hartford City

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved Teresa Sue (Thrailkill) Conner, who left us on Friday, July 11, 2025.
At the age of 64, she departed peacefully, surrounded by the love of her family, leaving behind a legacy of kindness and compassion that touched the lives of everyone who knew her.
Born on September 4, 1960, in Columbia City, Teresa was a beacon of light in our lives.
Her beauty radiated from within, manifesting in her nurturing spirit and warm smile.
Teresa dedicated her life to caring for her family and friends, always putting others before herself.
Her compassion knew no bounds, and her generosity was felt by all who crossed her path.
Teresa had an extraordinary ability to make everyone feel special and cherished.
Whether it was through her delicious home-cooked meals, her comforting hugs or her wise words of encouragement, she had a unique way of making life’s burdens lighter.
Teresa's home was a sanctuary filled with love, laughter and countless cherished memories.
She was not only a devoted wife and mother, but also was a loving grandmother, sister-in-law, cousin and friend.
Teresa was a 1979 graduate of Blackford High School, Hartford City.
She married the love of her life, Kevin Conner, on June 12, 1982.
Teresa was well-known and loved throughout the community, as she was employed in the school system, spending the early part of her career at St. John’s Riedman Memorial School, Hartford City, and finishing it with Blackford County Schools, Hartford City.
Her legacy will live on, not only through her husband of 45 years, but also through her daughters, Danielle (Clint) Dickey, and Kaitlin (J.W.) Rinker; her grandchildren, Kennedy Dickey (fiancé, Jaden Reum), Cole Dickey, Conner Dickey and Brantley Rinker; a sister-in-law, to whom she held dearly, Kimberlee “Kim” Sherbrooke; her chosen son, Jason Burnside (Kimberly), and their two children; along with several nieces, nephews, cousins and close friends (who were just like family), who will forever carry her spirit in their hearts. Her brother, Gary (Sherry) Thrailkill of North Carolina, also are left behind.
In Teresa's honor, the family invited all who knew her to celebrate her life and the love she shared.
Services were on Wednesday, July 16, 2025, in Waters Funeral Home, 501 W. Washington St., Hartford City.
Pastor Glenn Greiner, of Union Chapel Ministries, presided.
Burial took place at Jones Cemetery, west of Muncie, following services.
Teresa’s family asks that you consider a memorial contribution, to be left in care of the funeral home or Citizens State Bank, 1515 N. Walnut St., Hartford City, as a fund is being established for children-in-need, in the community.
Though we grieve her passing, we find comfort in the beautiful memories she created and the love she spread so freely.
Teresa will be deeply missed but never forgotten. Her spirit will continue to guide us, reminding us to love fiercely and live kindly, just as she did.

07/16/2025

Thera Kay Cochran, 86
She is the wife of Ronald “Ron” Gene Cochran, of Hartford City
She is the mother of Mark W. (wife, Stacey A.) Cochran, of Hartford City
She is the sister-in-law of Sheila A. (husband, Scott) Murrell, of Hartford City
She was born in Hartford City
She was a member of the AMVETS Auxiliary, Hartford City, and Moyer-Pooler American Legion Auxiliary, Hartford City

Thera Kay Cochran, 86, of Hartford City, passed away on Sunday, July 13, 2025, at The Waters of Hartford City.
She was born in Hartford City on May 29, 1939, to Leroy Raymond Bole and Opal L. (Rinker) Bole. Her parents preceded her in death.
Thera married Ronald “Ron” Gene Cochran in Hartford City in 1958.
She loved to take care of her home and was a devoted wife and mother.
Thera was a talented seamstress and cook.
In her spare time, she enjoyed working on crossword puzzles and was an avid reader.
Thera was a member of the AMVETS Auxiliary, Hartford City, and Moyer-Pooler American Legion Auxiliary, Hartford City.
She will be sadly missed by her husband, Ronald “Ron” Gene Cochran; her children, Mark W. (wife, Stacey A.) Cochran, of Hartford City, Colleen K. (husband, William) Dixon, of Frederick, Md., and Cheryl L. (husband, Dean) Claus, of Vale, Ariz; her grandchildren, Zachery Cochran, Kayla Claus, Tristian Dixon, McKenzie (husband, Dominic) Rammel and Madeline Dixon; great-grandchildren, Abigail Rammel and Brandon Rammel; her sister-in-law, Sheila A. (husband, Scott) Murrell, of Hartford City; as well as several nieces and nephews.
Thera is preceded in death by her parents, her siblings, Allen L. Bole and Raymond D. Bole, and a sister-in-law, Marilyn Sills.
Funeral service for Thera will be on Friday, July 18, 2025, at 2 p.m. at Keplinger Funeral Home, 509 N. High St., Hartford City.
Visitation will be on Friday, July 18, 2025, from noon to 2 p.m. at the funeral home.
Burial will be private at Hartford City Cemetery.
Memorials may be made to St. Jude's Children's Research Hospital - Cancer Research, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105.
Online condolence may be sent to www.keplingerfuneralhome.com or on the Keplinger Funeral Home page.

07/16/2025

Sharon E. Gentis, 86

Sharon E. Gentis, 86, of Bluffton, passed away on Wednesday evening, July 2, 2025, at Christian Care Retirement Community, where she had resided the past few years.
She was born on February 22, 1939, in Wells County to John and Helen (Clark) Gregg.
Sharon attended both Petroleum High School and Butler High School.
She made friends as easily as she made memories.
As a young girl, Sharon spent her time working at the Macy’s Drive-In and forging lifelong friendships with her beloved classmates from the Butler and Wells County areas.
She prioritized relationships above all else, and to simply be in her presence was confirmation that you mattered to her.
Sharon's connections were instantaneous and genuine.
On March 30, 1956, in Bluffton, she married her partner for life, Bill Gentis, and they spent the next 65 years building an admirable life together in Wells County.
For many of those years, Sharon and Bill co-owned Bluffton Tire (Goodyear) Store, all while raising six rambunctious children. Later, when the kids had grown and flown the family nest, they wintered in Orange City, Fla., for 20 years or more, but they always called Wells County their home.
She was a generous caregiver, not only to her family, but also to many local individuals, and she truly loved making life more enjoyable for those she held dear.
Sharon hosted entertaining family dinners, and she was known for her delicious homemade noodles.
A lover of flowers and birds, she also was an accomplished oil and watercolor artist, even owning her own art studio for a short time on Johnson Street, Bluffton.
Sharon was a member of Bluffton First Church of Christ and a former member of Domestic Church of Christ.
She was also a longtime member of the local Eastern Star and served as past Matron.
Sharon's commitment to service and adventure was evident in the way she approached every opportunity in life. At one point, she even left her mark on the working world as a convoy driver for oversized loads!
She was truly the life of every party, but her lasting legacy is her beautiful family.
Known as “Grandma Giggles,” Sharon was a “fierce” boat captain for her many grandchildren, who have been blessed to experience the death-defying tubing maneuvers on Little Barbee Lake every summer.
She adored her children and grandchildren and especially loved the memories created in that little cottage on the channel.
Sharon's infectious laugh, radiant smile and sincere kindness will be remembered by all who were honored to spend time in her presence.
She was a remarkable woman, full of love and light and loyal hospitality.
Sharon was preceded in death by her precious husband, Bill (also known as Sugarburger, Super Bill or W***y). It is likely they are together at a table somewhere in Heaven now, playing cards again, and reminiscing about all those carefully curated family memories.
Survivors include their children, Kurt (Susie) Gentis, Sheila (David) Herdman, Kelly (Robin) Gentis and Kerry (Michelle) Gentis; along with their sons-in-law, Dan Dunwiddie and Joe Collins, all of Bluffton.
Sharon was a loving grandmother to 17 grandchildren, Dan Gentis, Kristy Rinn, Celeste Paquette, Kristen Adam, Ryan Dunwiddie, April Schisler, Mia Gentis, Kit Gentis, Tia Osborn, Lia Warren, Alan Elliott, Andrea Balkcom, Abby Holloway, Maria Bates, Emilee Armstrong and Austin Gentis, as well as 34 great-grandchildren.
She also is survived by a brother, John (Deloris) Gregg; brother-in-law, Rex (Martha) Gentis; stepsister, Donna (Kirkwood) Cochran.
Sharon's parents preceded her in death, as did her stepfather, Ray Kirkwood, daughters, Ann Dunwiddie and Melissa Collins, granddaughter, Jaime Gentis, great-granddaughter, Grace Rinn, siblings, Ralph Davison and Jone Oman, brother-in-law, Jim Oman, and stepbrother, Kenny Kirkwood.
She loved her new home at Christian Care and spoke highly of the staff, their friendship and the care they so lovingly provided. We are so thankful for the many dear friendships that developed during her relatively short time there. Nellie Sleppy, Mary Jane Hamilton, Diane Johnson and Frederica DeBolt, along with many others, will forever hold a special place in our family’s hearts.
Funeral services were on Tuesday, July 8, 2025, at Thoma/Rich, Lemler Funeral Home, 308 W. Washington St., Bluffton, with Rick Oatess officiating.
Burial followed at Six Mile Cemetery, Bluffton.
Memorials may be made in Sharon’s memory to First Church of Christ or to Helping Hands Family Resource Center, both in Bluffton.
Funeral arrangements were entrusted to the care of the Lemler family of Thoma/Rich, Lemler Funeral Home, Bluffton.
Friends can send online condolences to the family at www.thomarich.com