James Stanley Bush, Jr. (July 22, 2020)

James Stanley Bush, Jr., age 56 of Greenville, Ohio passed away suddenly at his home on Wednesday, July 22, 2020. Born in Clarksburg, West Virginia on September 10, 1963 he was one of 8 children to the late James Stanley Bush, Sr. & Dawanda Maxine (Bush) Deem. James was a kind hearted, gentle giant. You could find him working on vehicles, in his garden taking care of his flowers, and enjoying barbeques and cookouts with his family and friends. He loved his Harley Davidson, listening to Elvis Presley and watching NASCAR races. He was easy to love; and loved by so many.

Survived by his children Lorinda & James “J.C” Hull; Daniel Bush; James S. “Jimmy” Bush, III: grandchildren Jacob Weist; Samuel Weist; Avery Hull; Joshua Hull; Colton Hull; Haillie Bush; Mcayla Bush; Lauren Grilliot; Damion Grilliot; Lucas Grilliot; Lillian Grilliot; Alexis Daugherty: siblings Deborah Burton; Linda & Matt Fitzgerald; Biba & Kris Warner; Jay & Peggy Bush; Ray & Brenda Bush; Bill & Carolyn Bush; David & Nicki Bush: step-father Nevin Deem: as well as many aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and friends.


Friends may call on the family from 5:00- 7:00 PM on Wednesday, July 29, 2020 at the Zechar Bailey Funeral Home, Greenville, Ohio. Funeral service to follow at 7:00 PM with Pastor Don Smith presiding. Memorial contributions may be made to the funeral home to offset expenses.

Condolences for the family may be expressed through www.zecharbailey.com

Norma Jane Roth (July 23, 2020)

Norma Jane Roth, age 87 of Greenville, Ohio and formerly of Ansonia passed away at 11:30 PM Thursday July 23, 2020 at the Brethren Retirement Community of Greenville. Norma was born May 10, 1933 in New Carlisle, Ohio and the daughter of the late Cline and Mary (Bowman) Wray.

She was a member of the Shady Grove Old German Baptist Brethren Church Union City, Ohio

In addition to her parents, Norma was preceded in death by her husband Dale L. Roth November 9, 1988 and her sister Elizabeth Roth.

Norma is survived by her children Michael R. (Barb) Roth of Ansonia, Alexa J. (Kirt) Clark and Mitchell (Judy) Roth all of Greenville; grandchildren Matthew Sanner, Timothy Sanner, Allyson (Mike) Phelan, Ashlynn (Derek) Beisner and Ben (Megan) Hart; great grandchildren Kash Mitchell Phelan, Ella Hart and Caroline Hart; brother Ezra (Beverly) Wray of Greenville as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

Funeral Services will be held at 1:00 PM Wednesday July 29, 2020 in the Shady Grove Old German Baptist Brethren Church 1887 Beamsville-Union City Road Union City, Ohio with the Home Brethren officiating. Burial will follow in the Greenville Township Memorial Gardens. The family will receive friends on Wednesday July 29, 2020 from 11:00 AM until 1:00 PM in the church.

It is the wishes of the family that Memorial Contributions be given to the Brethren Retirement Community Resident’s Aid Fund.

Funeral arrangements by Zechar Bailey Funeral Home Greenville, Ohio

Condolences for the family may be sent to www.zecharbailey.com.

Kerry Kenneth Abel (July 20 2020)

Kerry Kenneth Abel, 84, of Lake Placid, Florida, passed away on Monday, July 20 2020, at Advent Health in Lake Placid, Florida.

Kerry was born on June 10, 1936, in Jay County, Indiana, to the late Kenneth and Alda Ruth (Hough) Abel.

In addition to his parents, Kerry was preceded in death by his first wife, Phyllis Ruth (Subler) Abel, who is the mother of his children; his sons, Kevin Kale Abel and Tommy Joe Abel; his grandson, Travis Allen Abel; and his brother, Billy Ben Abel.

Kerry loved to sing and play the piano and guitar. Music was his passion. He barbered for the majority of his life; over 40 years in Greenville and Abel’s Barber Shop in Woodington. After moving to Florida, he barbered for over 22 years at Tony’s Barber Shop in Lake Placid. He also worked many years for Hobart KitchenAid and was a captain for Pinkerton Guard. He enjoyed fishing, mushroom hunting and bowling. Kerry loved to raise show poultry and attend poultry shows around the state with his children.

Kerry is survived by his wife, Monabelle Abel of Lake Placid; his daughter, Debbie (Bob) Barnum of Bradenton Florida; his granddaughters, Holly Renee Abel of Union City, Indiana, and Ashley Lee Burnett of Sarasota, Florida; and his great grandchildren, Emma Lee, Madeline, and Trevor.

A celebration of Kerry's life will take place at 11:00 AM on Wednesday, July 29, 2020, at Tribute Funeral Homes, Greenville Campus, with Pastor Tony Price officiating. Burial will follow in Greenville Township Memorial Gardens.

Guests may visit with the Abel family on Tuesday, July 28, 2020, from 5:00 PM until 7:00 PM at the funeral home.

Due to the current COVID-19 pandemic and Governor DeWine's orders, face coverings are requested and social distancing will be encouraged.

Online condolences and Hugs-From-Home may be shared with the family by visiting www.tributefuneralhomes.com.

Rodney Lee Weaver (July 22, 2020)

Rodney Lee Weaver, 50 of Union City, Indiana passed away unexpectedly on Wednesday July 22, 2020 at 2:07 PM. He was born February 28, 1970 in Greenville, Ohio, the son of Roger Weaver of Greenville and the late Joan Kay (Hamilton) Weaver. He worked for Kroger’s and Wendy’s.

He loved collecting rare coins and money; he loved Stars Wars; was an avid Miami Dolphins fan; and he loved his fireworks.

He is preceded in death by his mother.

He is survived by his father; his children: Cameron Weaver, Raleigh Weaver, and Lucas Weaver; his siblings: Teresa & Berhane Belew, Ted & Angie Weaver, Kay Goubeaux; numerous nieces & nephews.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Thursday July 30, 2020 from 6:00 PM until 8:00 PM at Zechar Bailey Funeral Home, Greenville, Ohio. Private burial will be held in Greenville Township Memorial Gardens. Memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society.

Condolences for the family may be expressed through www.zecharbailey.com

Florence Mae (Rhotehamel) Dickey Wright (July 21, 2020)

Florence Mae (Rhotehamel) Dickey Wright, 92, of Greenville, Ohio passed away on Tuesday, July 21, 2020, at Brookdale Assisted Living in Greenville.

She was born in Greenville on January 25, 1928, to the late Loyal Glen and Bertha Caroline (Petering) Rhotehamel.

In addition to her parents, Florence was preceded in death by her husbands, Glen A. Dickey, who passed away in January 1963, and Jack L. Wright, whom she married in May 1972 until his death in June 2019; along with her sister, Hazel Driscoll; her brothers, Norman and Bernard Rhotehamel; infant sister, Mary Francis Rhotehamel; 2 nieces and 4 nephews; and her daughter-in-law, Teresa Wright.

She was a graduate of Ansonia High School. Florence worked many years in retail, having worked at G.C. Murphy and Coppess 5&10 and Macy’s in California, from which she retired. She was a member of the Redbud Garden Club, Ansonia Book Club, American Legion Post 353 Auxiliary, Greenville VFW Auxiliary, the Congregational Christian Church of Ansonia and the Foothills Congregational Christian Church of Los Altos, California.

Florence enjoyed bowling and participated in leagues in both Ohio and California. While living in California many good times were had with friends in the culinary club. She and her husband Jack took many cruises and traveled extensively. She enjoyed seeing her former classmates at the Ansonia Alumni dinner for the many years she attended. She was also a volunteer at Wayne HealthCare for many years. Florence enjoyed spending time with family, especially her grandchildren and great grandchildren, bringing many smiles and memories.

Florence is survived by her daughters, Diane (Roger) Young of LaFollette, Tennessee, and LuAnn (Rusty) Baker of Greenville; son, Steve (Kim) Dickey of Ansonia, and step-son John “Tony” Wright of Union, Ohio; her grandchildren, Teresa (Brian) Mikesell, Jennifer Young -Waters, Kris (Michelle) Dickey, Monica Anderson and Holli Baker; step-grandchildren, Joshua Wright and Jessica (Early) Singletary; great grandchildren, Jared and Leela Waters, Ian, Jonah and Colin Mikesell, Caden, Ethan, Kiersten and Lauryn Dickey, Tyler Anderson, Kelci Stidham, Logan Stewart and Gianna Stevens; her sisters, Velma (David) Campbell of Ansonia and Ethel (Frank) Lenker of Greenville; along with nieces, nephews, extended family and friends.

Due to the current COVID-19 pandemic, a private family service will take place at the convenience of the family with Pastor Eric Knight officiating. Burial will follow in Greenville Union Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be given to the American Macular Degeneration Foundation, P.O. Box 515, Northampton, MA 01061-0515.

Online condolences and Hugs-From-Home may be shared with the family by visiting www.tributefuneralhomes.com.

Roy V. Wagner (July 18, 2020)

Roy V. Wagner age 85, of Greenville passed away Saturday, July 18, 2020, in Greenville.

Roy was born December 9, 1934, in Newark, Ohio, to the late Roy V. & Bessie (Hale) Wagner Sr. In addition to his parents, Roy was also preceded in death by his brother, Eugene Wagner.

Roy is survived by his wife of 60 years, Judith C. (Hausser) Wagner whom he married August 29, 1959; children, Christopher & Laurie Wagner of Ypsilanti, Michigan, and Sara & Derek Koon of Ludlow Falls; and grandchildren, Alexander Koon and Matthew Koon.

Roy was ordained in 1961 with the United Church of Christ and served as Pastor until his retirement in 2013. He served congregations in Bay City, Michigan, Grand Haven, Michigan, Clinton, Michigan, Apple Creek, Ohio, and North Canton, Ohio. He was a member of the First United Church of Christ in Troy. Roy enjoyed singing in the church and community choirs, gardening, reading and golfing.

A celebration of Roy’s life will be held at 10:30 AM on Saturday, August 1, 2020, at Pleasant Hill Church of the Brethren 300 E. Monument St. Pleasant Hill with Pastor Nick Beam, Pastor Todd Reish and Pastor Lauren Allen officiating. The service can be joined remotely on Facebook Live at Zechar Bailey Funeral Homes Facebook page. The family will receive friends from 9:30 to 10:30 AM outside in front of the church. Memorial contributions may be made to Heart & Soles P.O. Box 163 Pleasant Hill, OH 45359 or the American Cancer Association. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the family will be observing social distancing and masking measures. Arrangements have been entrusted to Zechar Bailey Funeral Home in Greenville. Condolences for the family may be expressed through www.zecharbailey.com

Sally Lee Hole Zeiter (July 13th, 2020)

Sally Lee Hole Zeiter (84), of Greenville, Ohio, beloved wife, mother and Granny, went home to join the Lord and the great cloud of witnesses on July 13th, 2020. A vibrant, thunderous force, she spent her life and fortune and energy summoning together her family for holiday celebrations, The Great Darke County Fair, and an annual vacation with five generations at Indiana Beach on Lake Schafer. When she cooked, she cooked enough for an army, when she spoiled, she lavished gifts and candy and cookies on anyone who walked in her back door (but especially her grandchildren).

Sally was born October 12, 1935 in Greenville, Ohio and was the firstborn of three children to the late Richard E. and Harriet (Watson) Hole. Sally graduated from Greenville High School in the class of 1953. She attended Miami-Jacobs Career College, The University of Michigan, and received her master’s degree in education from Oakland University in Michigan.

She married Erwin “Zeke” Zeiter in October 1959 and they had three children: Tammy Lee, Matthew Paul and Kimberly Jo. Her love story with Zeke is one of redemption. Sally and Zeke divorced midlife in 1981 and after 18 years, through prayer and by the grace of God they reconciled and were remarried with all of their children and grandchildren present in Fairhope, AL in March 1999 and were able to spend another 21 years together as husband and wife.

Sally taught elementary school in Ferndale, MI for many years. In Ohio, she worked for Corning Glass Works, Greenville City Schools and retired from The Neff Company. She was an active member of First Congregational Christian Church, alongside many members of her family. Sally served as President of the Darke County Republican Women’s Club from 2011 until 2014.

Sally Lee loved her family and the time they spent together most of all. She also thoroughly enjoyed drinking black coffee while working a crossword puzzle on the screened in porch, playing Solitaire and other card games, decorating for and celebrating Easter, Halloween and Christmas, completing a jigsaw at the dining room table, watching (and falling asleep during) movies, making breakfast for a bunch of sleepy grandchildren (Angels and Tigers!), eating Maidrites and ice cream cones at the City Park after feeding the ducks, and keeping her freezer stocked with mini Snickers bars.

Her parents, grandparents, and her youngest granddaughter Cortney Noel Bowers preceded her in death. Her husband Erwin “Zeke” Zeiter; younger siblings Richard E. (Barb) Hole and Harriett “Kay” (Lawrence) Bales; her three children Tammy (Dean) Balu, Matt (Julie) Zeiter, and Kim (Mike) Bowers; her grandchildren and spouses Tara Lee (Lance) Schaubert, Lauren Watson (Patrick) Wheeler, Brittany LeeAnn (Japheth) Bear, Bethany Grace (Ian) Johnson, Samuel Paul (Allyce) Bowers, Kristin Marie Zeiter, John Matthew Zeiter and Micah Paul Balu; two great-granddaughters Lyla Grace and Sadie Watson Wheeler; and numerous nieces and nephews — all of these carry on her legacy of faith, life, love, and courage.

The immediate family has already conducted a private service, but at a future date, the Zeiter Family will schedule a Celebration of Life in Greenville. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to the Alzheimer’s Association Miami Valley Chapter 31 West Whipp Road, Dayton, Ohio, 45459 or the State of the Heart Hospice 1350 North Broadway Greenville, Ohio, 45331 in Sally's name.

Funeral arrangements by Zechar Bailey Funeral Home Greenville, Ohio and condolences for the family may be expressed through www.zecharbailey.com.

Ramona June Nickol (July 18, 2020)

Ramona June Nickol, age 85 of Versailles, Ohio passed away at 8:37 PM on Saturday, July 18, 2020 at the Brethren’s Retirement Community in Greenville, Ohio. Born on June 5, 1935 in Versailles, Ohio; she was the only child born to the late Nason & Marie (Fields) Lanich. She had worked for 22 years for Versailles Schools, and retired in 1995. Ramona was a member of the Versailles United Methodist Church and United Methodist Women as well as a charter member of the “Modern Mothers Club”. Ramona was well known for her angel food cakes, and baked them yearly for the Easter Market. She volunteered serving “Meals on Wheels” and in 2006, she was awarded Darke County’s Senior Citizen of the Year. In addition to her parents, she is preceded in death by her husband, John E. Nickol; and infant daughter Wendy Kay Nickol.

Survived by her children Penny (Doug) Zirkle; Johna (Chuck) Hemmelgarn; Kelly Nickol; Larry “Rocky” Nickol: grandchildren Ashley (Gina) Zirkle; Lee (Denise) Hemmelgarn; Lindsay (Michael) Costlow; Jay ( Kendra) Hemmelgarn; Beau (Gina) Hemmelgarn: great-granchildren Teagan, Anna, Mason, Julia, Naomi, Desmond, Ian, Alex, Kylie, Charlotte, Layne, Brody, Walker.

Friends may call on the family from 4:00 PM-7:00 PM on Tuesday, July 21, 2020 at the Bailey Zechar Funeral Home, Versailles, Ohio. Funeral service will be held at the Versailles United Methodist Church at 10:30 AM on Wednesday, July 22, 2020 with an hour visitation prior. Pastor Chuck Mackeen presiding. Burial to follow at Greenlawn Cemetery, Versailles, Ohio. Memorial donations may be made to Darke County Humane Society or to State of the Heart Care. Online condolences www.zecharbailey.com.

Norman Edwin Bowman (July 17, 2020)

Norman Edwin Bowman, eldest son of Jacob Edwin and Mary Alice (Grove) Bowman born Sept 23, 1927 in Miami County. Ohio. He died at home on July 17, 2020. He was baptized into the Covington Old German Baptist Brethren church district on November 26, 1944, to which he remained faithful until death. He was married February 18, 1950 and enjoyed 70 years married to Gladys Emma Garber, daughter of Harry and Sarah Jane Garber of Fayetteville, Pa.

He is survived by his 2 sons, Brother Harry (Sister Beverly) of Greenville, Oh, Rue Edwin (Melissa) of Bradford, Oh and 3 daughters, Sarah Jane (Stephen) Sewell of Greenville Oh, Mary Alice (David) Shoup of Bradford, Oh and Gladys Emma (Thomas) Kesselring of Greenville, Ohio. He is survived by 12 grandchildren, 13 great grandchildren and 3 great great-grandchildren. Also surviving is a sister in law Sister Orpha Garber of Pa. and a brother in law Richard Hirt of Troy, Oh.

He was preceded in death by all of his siblings: Ruby Iona who survived just 3 days; Bro. Glen Edward, Sister Velma Alice (Bro. David) Gish-(Bro Lowell)Yost, Sister Maxine Elizabeth (Bro. Donald) Jamison and Anna May (Richard) Hirt, 2 Brothers in-law Joe and Ralph Garber of Pa.

He called for the anointing service on two occasions; once before major open-heart surgery and just 6 weeks before his death from which he received much comfort.

He was a hard-working farmer and general fixer-upper who was always lending a hand to others.

He will be missed by many other family and relatives as well as neighbors and friends.

Services will be held on Tuesday July 21, 2020 at the Sugar Grove Old German Baptist Brethren Church 6360 Farrington Road, Covington, Ohio with the Home Brethren officiating. Burial will follow in Sugar Grove Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 2:00 PM until 5:00 PM and from 6:00 PM until 8:00 PM on Monday July 20, 2020 at the church. Arrangements are being handled by Zechar Bailey Funeral Home, Greenville, Ohio. Memorial contributions may be made to the donor’s choice.

Condolences for the family may be expressed through www.zecharbailey.com.

Claudia Sue Shepherd (July 15, 2020)

Claudia Sue Shepherd, age 65 of Greenville, Ohio passed away after a brief battle with cancer, on Wednesday, July 15, 2020 at Miami Valley Hospital, Dayton, Ohio. Born in Greenville on May 11, 1955 she was a daughter to the late Bill & Jean (Lantz) Shepherd. Claudia was a Greenville High School graduate, class of 1973. She then went on to work for the court systems in Darke County, and was the current Chief Deputy Clerk for the Darke County Probate Court. She enjoyed watching the Ohio State Buckeyes play football, but her true love was watching her grandchildren play sports, and attending all of the Greenville sporting events. Her children, and grandchildren were her world, she will be deeply missed.

Survived by her sons Jerome & Melissa Eberwein; Adam & Erin Eberwein: grandchildren Bailey, Jackson, & Titus: brothers Bruce & Kathy Shepherd; Mark Shepherd & Ron Kolb: aunts & uncles John Lantz; Steve & Francia Lantz; Mary Ann & Chip Caldwell; Paula & Jack Weitz: nieces & nephews Josh Shepherd; Lance Shepherd; Alisha & Jacob Shepherd: as well as many more family members and friends.

There will be a celebration of Claudia’s life at a later date. Arrangements entrusted to Zechar Bailey Funeral Home, Greenville, Ohio. Memorial contributions may be made to the Darke County Cancer Association. Online sympathies www.zecharbailey.com.

Christopher A. Young (July 15, 2020)

Christopher A. Young, age 53 of Ansonia, Ohio passed away on Thursday, July 15, 2020 at 7:24 PM in Minster, Ohio. Born in Brunswick, Georgia on February 14, 1967 he was a son to George Young & the late Frances Jean (Stoltz) Young. Chris was an Ansonia High School graduate, class of 1985. He enjoyed campfires, trips to Michigan, and telling stories. More than anything he loved spending time with his children, grandchildren, family & friends; and “Staying Humble”. He will truly be missed. In addition to his mother he is preceded in death by his daughter Brittani Young.

Survived by his children Derek & Kendra Young of Celina; Ashley Young & Tony Rammel of Coldwater; Alice Young of Ansonia: grandchildren Lukas Rammel; Hazel Rammel: siblings Darren Young; Dawn Young: uncle Gary & Marie Young: special friends Randy & Lisa Heck; Linda Hoggett: as well as many Uncles, Aunts, Family Members and Friends.

Friends may call on the family from 11:00 AM- 2:00 PM on Wednesday, July 22, 2020 at the Zechar Bailey Funeral Home, Greenville, Ohio. Funeral to follow at 2:00 PM with Pastor Jeff Brandon officiating. Burial Greenville Township Memorial Garden, Greenville, Ohio. Memorial Contributions may be made to the funeral home to offset expenses. Online sympathies www.zecharbailey.com.

Frederick A. Smith (April 15, 2019)

Frederick A. Smith, 76, of Greenville, Ohio passed away Monday, April 15, 2019 at State of the Heart Hospice. He was born December 25, 1942 to the late Herman and Beatrice Smith.

Fred is survived by his loving wife, Nancy (Rice) Smith, whom he married May 1, 1987. Fred is also survived by his children Kathy and Dennis Etter, Kelly and Kent Warner, Brenda and Chuck Borgerding, and Kathy Arden; grandchildren Brian Billenstein, Dustin Caverlee, Eric Hemmelgarn, Nicole Mora, Devin Billenstein, Brooke Borgerding, Ash (Betsy) Petitjean, Andrea (Glenn) Rentner, Kelsey Arden, and Carson Arden; eight great-grandchildren; and siblings Larry Joe (Sharon) Smith, Herman Duke (Carolyn) Smith, Kenneth (Donna) Smith and Geneva Guthrie.

In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his sister Sondra Blum.

Fred served in the US Navy from 1960-1963, where he was stationed on the USS Enterprise in aviation maintenance. He later served in the Navy Reserves until 1966. Upon being discharged from the US Navy, Fred worked as a manufacturing supervisor at different facilities until he retired and settled in Wayne Lakes in 2004.

Private Graveside services will be held at 1:00 PM Friday July 24, 2020 in the Greenville Township Memorial Gardens Greenville, Ohio with Pastor Shawn Harrison officiating. Also Full Military Honors will be conducted by the Greenville Veterans Honor Guard.

To celebrate Fred's life, it is the wishes of the family that memorial contributions be given to the American Legion, Attn: Honor Guard, 325 N Ohio St, Greenville, Oh.

Arrangements by Zechar Bailey Funeral Home Greenville, Ohio.

Condolences for the family may be sent to www.zecharbailey.com

Connie Gay Claywell (July 13, 2020)

Connie Gay Claywell age 70, of Union City, Ohio passed away at 2:11 AM on Monday, July 13, 2020, peacefully at home surrounded by her family.

Connie was born August 14, 1949, in New Castle, Indiana, to Gladys (Cross) Tweedy of Greenville and the late Walter Claywell. In addition to her father, Connie was also preceded in death by her grandson, Kyle T. Cross; and brother, Jackie Claywell.

In addition to her mother, Connie is survived by her daughters, Deana & Jonathon Penny of California, Jeana Cross & fiancé, Mark Trent of Greenville and MeChele Back & Shea Bailey of New Madison; grandchildren, Deven Thompson & fiancé, Justin Paine, Cody Fansler & fiancée, Shelby Griffin, Taylor & Greg Rufus, Levi Back and Chloe Penny; great grandchildren, Jayden Paine, Ruka Paine, Judah Rufus and Havalea Rufus; brothers, Phillip Claywell of Union City, Ohio and Lonnie Claywell of Union City, Indiana; sisters, Vickie Claywell of Piqua and Debbie Claywell of Piqua; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Connie formerly worked at Westinghouse and Workhorse in Union City, Indiana and then started a career in home health care. She was a member of Wesley United Methodist Church in Union City, Indiana, American Legion Ladies Auxiliary in Union City, Indiana and the Greenville Elks and Moose Lodge.

A funeral service will be held at 4:00 PM on Saturday, July 18, 2020, at Zechar Bailey Funeral Home in Greenville with Pastor Keith Maloy officiating. The family will receive friends on Saturday from 2:00 to 4:00 PM at the funeral home. Memorial contributions may be made to the family. Condolences for the family may be expressed through www.zecharbailey.com

Velma Alene Lowder (July 12, 2020)

Velma Alene Lowder, age 95 of Greenville, Ohio passed away peacefully at 11:55 PM, on July 12, 2020 at the Brethren’s Retirement Community, Greenville, Ohio. Born in Fort Jefferson, Ohio on July 8, 1925 she was one of 3 children to the late Floyd & Mary (Bolinger) Cox. Velma retired from Kroger, after working there for 28 years. She was a member of St Paul’s Lutheran Church in Greenville, and was also a member of the VFW Women’s Auxiliary and the DAV Auxiliary. Velma had served as past president of Wayne Hospitals Volunteers, and had enjoyed knitting hats for the babies at the hospital. She enjoyed spending her winters in Florida, but most of all, loved to spend time with her family. She will be deeply missed. In addition to her parents she is preceded in death by her husband in 1988, Jack Glenn Allison Lowder: brothers Melvin Cox; Marvin Cox.

Survived by her children Doug & Karen Lowder; Shelley & Mike Meckes: grandchildren Tara & Mark Wolf; Jason & Nicole Lowder; Tiffany & Chris Pope; Dustin Meckes: great-grandchildren Austin Lowder; Aubree Lowder; Kelsey McClure; Tess McClure; Charlie Pope: step-great-grandchildren Callie Pope; Carson Pope; Allison Wolf; Branden Wolf: special friend Tom Whitton: and numerous nieces, nephews, and friends.

Friends may call on the family from 10:00 AM-11:00 AM on Monday, July 20, 2020 at St Paul’s Lutheran Church- 131 E 4th St, Greenville, Ohio 45331- Funeral service to follow at 11:00 AM with Pastor Alan Knoke presiding. Burial at Oakgrove/Ft. Jefferson Cemetery, Darke County, Ohio. Memorial donations may be made to the St Paul’s Lutheran Church or the Juvenile Diabetes Fund. Online sympathies www.zecharbailey.com.

Paulette M. Shields (July 9, 2020)

Paulette M. Shields, age 73 of Greenville, Ohio passed away at 10:27 AM Thursday July 9, 2020 at her residence in Greenville. Paulette was born December 18, 1946 in Darke County, Ohio and the daughter of the late George Swab Jr. and Betty Jean (Houdeshell) Hunt and her stepfather Thomas Hunt Jr.

Paulette was retired from Big Lots after 16 years of employment in the office. She was a member of the First Presbyterian Church of Greenville, Gamma Epsilon Sorority and had been involved as a volunteer for 20 years at Wayne HealthCare of Greenville.

In addition to her parents and stepfather, she was preceded in death by a brother Larry J. Swab and Sister Patricia Ann Hunt.

Paulette is survived by her children Gina Marie Shields and partner Rodney Franklin of Fairfield Township, Ohio and Gregory Lee (Amber) Shields Jr. of Greenville; grandchildren Maddison (Brandon) Orr and Parker Flood; great grandchild Kaia Orr; sister Georgia L. Young of Greenville; brother Thomas (Danielle) Hunt III of Greenville as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

A Celebration of Paulette’s Life will be held at 7:00 PM Thursday July 16, 2020 in the Zechar Bailey Funeral Home Greenville, Ohio with Pastor Andrew Gilman officiating. The family will receive friends on Thursday July 16, 2020 from 5:00 PM until 7:00 PM in the funeral home.

It is the wishes of the family that Memorial Contributions be given to State of the Heart Hospice of Darke County or the Shriner’s Hospitals

F.R.O.G.

“FOREVER RELY ON GOD”

Condolences for the family may be sent to www.zecharbailey.com.

Vivian Joan Nixon (July 9, 2020)

Vivian Joan Nixon, 76 of Greenville, Ohio passed away on Thursday July 9, 2020 at 12:06 PM at Versailles Rehab and Healthcare, Versailles, Ohio. She was born October 16, 1943 in Bradford, Ohio the daughter of the late Russell & Mary (Brown) Grow. She was a homemaker and worked for 15 years for Servicemaster cleaning Greenville National Bank Main Office.

She was the first Queen of the Bradford Pumpkin Show; she enjoyed fishing when she was young; collecting porcelain dolls, toothpick holders; and vintage cars and trucks.

She is preceded in death by her parents; her siblings: Glenna, Ruby, Wilma, Dorothy, & Rusty.

She is survived by her husband: Robert Nixon of Greenville whom she married June 30, 1962; her son: Steven Nixon of Greenville; her daughter: Annette Kiser of Greenville; grandchildren: Dustin, Ashley, & Robbie; great grandchildren: Skyanne, Tyler, Ryan, D.J., Paisley, & Lily; her sisters: Marlene Hockett, Betty Pieffer, Norma Bernard.

A service will be held on Tuesday July 14, 2020 at 2:00 PM at Zechar Bailey Funeral Home, Greenville, Ohio with Pastor Todd Reish officiating. Burial will follow in Greenville Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to the Darke County Park District. Condolences for the family may be expressed through www.zecharbailey.com

Betty Jo (Preston) Compton (July 7, 2020)

Betty Jo (Preston) Compton, 85, of Greenville, Ohio passed away on Tuesday, July 7, 2020, in Greenville.

She was born on June 14, 1935, in Junction City, Kentucky, to the late Ishmael and Mallie Mae (Turpin) Preston.

In addition to her parents, Betty was preceded in death by her husband, Francis “Jake” Compton; her son, Michael James Penkal; her siblings, Harold Preston, Tom Preston and his wife, Vivian, Emma Griffith and her husband, Cliff, and Frances Johnson; and her beloved cat, Midnight.

Betty loved her family and everything to do with them. She always put her family and their needs before her own. She loved everyone and was loved by everyone. Each morning, Betty would enjoy her McDonald’s coffee and white powdered donuts while she looked outside at her flowers and the birds that flew by. Betty enjoyed reading and playing card games and board games, especially Scrabble and Yahtzee.

Betty is survived by her children, Tim Penkal and his wife, Linda, of Bradford, Ohio, Kathy Gilmore and her husband, Donnie, of Eaton, Ohio, Angie McFerran and her husband, Gary, of Greenville, Kimberly Penkal of Greenville, John Penkal of Greenville, and Glenn Penkal of Michigan; her many grandchildren and great grandchildren: her sister-in-law, Pat Preston of Boston, Massachusetts; and numerous nieces and nephews.

A celebration of Betty’s life will take place at 11:00 AM on Tuesday, July 14, 2020, at Tribute Funeral Homes, Greenville Campus, with Chaplin Andral officiating. Burial will follow in Forest Hills Memorial Gardens in Tipp City, Ohio.

Guests may visit with Betty’s family on Tuesday from 10:00 AM until the time of service at 11:00 AM at the funeral home.

Memorial contributions may be made to Tribute Funeral Homes to help off set funeral expenses.

Online condolences and Hugs-From-Home may be shared with the family by visiting www.tributefuneralhomes.com.

Carolyn A. Newbauer (July 3, 2020)

Carolyn A. Newbauer age 80, of Ansonia passed away at 9:08 AM on Friday, July 3, 2020, at her residence.

Carolyn was born December 10, 1939, in Middletown to the late John Wallace & Marjory Louise (Lackey) Klackner. In addition to her parents, Carolyn was also preceded in death by a brother, Wallace Klackner; and grandparents, Clifford & Viola Lackey.

Carolyn is survived by her daughters, Jennifer Newbauer of Ansonia and Emily Clark of Ansonia; son-in-law, William Clark Jr. of Ansonia; grandchildren, Rusty Hardwick, Christopher & Elizabeth Clark and Sarah Clark; and numerous nieces and nephews.

A memorial service will be held at 7:00 PM on Friday, July 17, 2020, at Ansonia United Methodist Church in Ansonia with Pastor Roger Emerson officiating. The family will receive friends on Friday from 5:00 to 7:00 PM at the church. Arrangements are under the direction of Zechar Bailey Funeral Home in Greenville. Condolences for the family may be expressed through www.zecharbailey.com

Rachel Sue Hoerner (July 8, 2020)

Rachel Sue Hoerner, 83, of Wayne Lakes, Ohio, passed away peacefully, surrounded by her family, on Wednesday, July 8, 2020, at the Brethren Retirement Community in Greenville, Ohio.

She was born on February 2, 1937, in Clayton, Ohio, to the late Carl and Florine (Mefford) Jones.

In addition to her parents, Rachel was preceded in death by her husband, Allen F. Hoerner; and her siblings, Paul Jones, Dick Jones, and Laurraine Lawhorn.

Rachel is survived by her daughter, Jennifer Cromwell and her husband, Kevin, of Greenville; and several nieces and nephews.

Rachel worked as a legal secretary for over 30 years. She worked for the law offices of Bill Bertram and Ted Finnarn. She was also the bookkeeper for the village of Wayne Lakes for over 20 years. She was a member of the Fort Jefferson United Methodist Church and played the organ there for years. In her free time, Rachel enjoyed bowling and reading romance novels.

A Celebration of Rachel's life will be held at Fort Jefferson United Methodist Church and will be announced at a later date.

Rachel's family has entrusted Tribute Funeral Homes, Greenville Campus, with her arrangements.

Online condolences and Hugs-From-Home may be left for Rachel's family by visiting www.tributefuneralhomes.com.

Nelson R. Smith (July 7, 2020)

Nelson R. Smith, 66 of Versailles, Ohio passed away on Tuesday July 7, 2020 at 10:20 AM at Hospice of Miami County Care Center, Troy, Ohio. He was born January 3, 1954 in Piqua, Ohio the son of the late Norbert R. & Genevie M. (Barton) Smith. He served in the United States Navy on the USS Saratoga (CV-60) during the Vietnam War. He worked at Corning Glass and BASF retiring in 2014.

He was a member of St. Denis Catholic Church, and the American Legion; he loved woodworking and shooting pool.

He is preceded in death by his parents; and his grandson: Matthew Smith.

He is survived by his wife: Lisa Kay (Hix) Smith of Versailles whom he married September 29, 2012; his children: Brian Smith of Blacklick, Ohio, Jarrid J. & Amy Smith of Greenville, Dana A. Smith of Tampa, FLorida; his grandchildren: Jonathan Smith, Nathaniel Smith, Troy Smith, Cason Smith, & Callie Smith, step grandchildren: Xavier Robinson, & Brandon Robinson; great grandchildren: Owen & Thomas Smith; his siblings & spouses: Norman Smith & companion Janet, Norma & Tom Parin, Gene & Jill Smith, Gail & Joe Haynes, Neil & Janet Smith, Nick & Sandy Smith; numerous nieces & nephews.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Monday July 13, 2020 at 10:30 AM at St. Denis Catholic Church 14 East Wood Street, Versailles, Ohio with Rev. Fr. Jim Simons Celebrant. Burial will follow in St. Valbert Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 2:00 PM until 5:00 PM on Sunday July 12, 2020 and from 9:00 AM until 10:00 AM on Monday July 13, 2020 at Bailey Zechar Funeral Home, Versailles, Ohio. Veteran’s services will be conducted by the Versailles Veterans Honor Guard. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to Hospice of Miami County or the Glioblastoma Cancer Research. Due to COVID-19 the family asks that people attending the visitation to please wear a mask and practice social distancing.

Condolences for the family may be expressed through www.zecharbailey.com