Diane Collier, of Cincinnati, Ohio passed away Saturday, June 14, 2025, at the age of 82. She was born to the late Raymond and Eleanor Carey on June 15, 1942.

Diane is survived by her husband of 61 years, Jerry Collier of Cincinnati, Ohio; her children: Terry (Rita Rachkowski) Collier of Albuquerque, New Mexico, Angela (Roger) Cooper of Mt. Orab, Ohio, and David (Jongsun) Collier of Pohang, South Korea; her grandchildren: Brandon, Abigail, Josiah, Zion, Shiloh and Shinae; and her sister, Bonnie Childers of Mt. Orab, Ohio.

Diane was a fine artist and art teacher. She was a member of Crosspoint Wesleyan Church and involved in the women’s ministry. She graduated from the DAAP College University of Cincinnati with a bachelor’s degree in fine arts and education.

Memorial service 11 AM Tuesday, June 24, 2025, at Crosspoint Wesleyan Church, 300 W. Main Street, Mt. Orab, Ohio 45154. Pastor Tom Bolinger officiating.

Memorial donations may be directed to Crosspoint Wesleyan Church.

Megie Funeral Home – Mt. Orab caring for the family.

Susan Faye Baugus, age 66, of Brooksville, Kentucky passed away peacefully Saturday, June 14, 2025 with her family by her side. She was born May 24, 1959 in Maysville, Kentucky the daughter of the late Ivan Earl and Carolyn (Huddleston) Linville. Susan was a dedicated sales manager for McFarland Chevrolet in Maysville, Kentucky and member of the Sardis Christian Church in Mayslick, Kentucky. As a lover of the outdoors, she cherished her time at the River Pines RV Resort, where she enjoyed riding her golf cart and embracing nature. She had a passion for building things and cherished the memories made while working alongside her husband to construct their home. Susan also found joy in visiting the casino, particularly enjoying the thrill of playing the quarter slot machines. Her vibrant spirit and zest for life will leave a lasting impact on those lives she has touched and will be deeply missed. Besides her parents, she was preceded in death by husband and soul mate of 47 years – Thomas Edward Baugus on June 4, 2024, whom she married April 26, 1977 and one brother – Michael Linville.

Mrs. Baugus is survived by two daughters – Tabitha Baugus and Scott Cook of Germantown, Kentucky and Sabrina Baugus and husband Mike Steward of Batavia, Ohio; seven grandchildren – Tristen Baugus-Hickerson, CJ Morgan, Tanner Baugus and wife Aliyah, Michaela Chappell, Anakin Davis-Steward, Adalynn Davis-Steward and Scotty Cook; one great grandchild on the way; two sisters – Rhonda Miller of Georgetown, Ohio and Shonda Linville of Tennessee and many nieces, nephews and extended family and friends.

Funeral services will be held at 10:00 A.M. Saturday, June 21, 2025 at the Cahall Funeral Home in Mt.Orab, Ohio. Jonathan Dodson will officiate. Visitation will be from 5:00 P.M. – 7:00 P.M. Friday, June 20, 2025 at the funeral home. Interment will be in the Neal Cemetery near Hamersville, Ohio.

Condolences may be sent to the family at www.cahallfuneralhomes.com

Marcia Lynn Baird, age 66, of Russellville, Ohio passed away Wednesday, June 11, 2025 at her residence with her loved ones by her side. She was born November 15, 1958 in Hamilton, Ohio the daughter of Margaret (Rice) Bales of Loveland, Ohio and the late Arthur Bales. Marcia was a dedicated nurse, whose compassion and commitment to the care of others touched many lives.

In addition to her mother, Mrs. Baird is survived by her devoted husband of nearly 47 years – James “Jim” Baird whom she married September 23, 1978; two children – Erin Nelson and husband Andrew of Russellville, Ohio and Russell Baird and wife Nicolle of Berkeley Lake, Georgia; three grandchildren – Ruby and Landon Nelson and Roark Baird; one sister – Mira King and husband Tim of Loveland, Ohio; one niece – Heather Comb; one sister-in-law - Judy Bohn and other nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will be held at 12:00 P.M. Wednesday, June 18, 2025 at the Cahall Funeral Home in Georgetown, Ohio. Visitation will be from 10:00 A.M. – 12:00 P.M. Wednesday at the funeral home. Interment will be in the Decatur Cemetery in Decatur, Ohio.

If desired, memorial contributions may be made to Hospice of Southwest Ohio, 7625 Camargo Road, Cincinnati, Ohio 45243 or at www.hswo.org/donate

Condolences may be sent to the family at www.cahallfuneralhomes.com

Beverly Sue Reid, age 76, of Georgetown, Ohio died Tuesday, June 10, 2025 at her daughter and son-in-law’s home in Decatur, Ohio. She was born December 17, 1948 in Winchester, Ohio the daughter of the late Hubert and Martha Frances (Wiles) Jodrey. Bev was a devoted and loving homemaker. Her commitment to her family and the warmth she provided in her home nurtured countless cherished memories and her unwavering love and support will leave a lasting impact on all who had the privilege of knowing her. Besides her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband – Richard E. Reid in 1993.

Mrs. Reid is survived by one daughter – Melissa Gray and husband Eric of Decatur, Ohio; one son – Scott Reid of West Union, Ohio; five grandchildren – Zack Reid and wife Kelli of Kinston, Tennessee, Jessica Branch and husband Kenny of Seaman, Ohio, Austin McCord of Decatur, Ohio, Jansen McCord and fiancé Rebecca of Georgetown, Ohio and Corilyn Reid of West Union, Ohio; five great grandchildren; five brothers – Ronnie Jodrey of Winchester, Ohio, David Jodrey and wife Linda of Cincinnati, Ohio, James Jodrey and wife Sherry of Cherry Fork, Ohio, Danny Jodrey and wife Bonnie of Winchester, Ohio and Jake Jodrey and wife Kathy of Winchester, Ohio; two sisters – Carol Evans of Georgetown, Ohio and Martha Shepherd and husband Terry of Georgetown, Ohio and several nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will be held at 1:00 P.M. Monday, June 16, 2025 at the Cahall Funeral Home in Georgetown, Ohio. Chuck Gray will officiate. Visitation will be from 11:00 A.M. – 1:00 P.M. Monday at the funeral home. Interment will be in the Confidence Cemetery in Georgetown, Ohio.

If desired, memorial donations may be made to Hospice of Hope, 215 Hughes Boulevard, Mt. Orab, Ohio 45154.

Condolences may be sent to the family at www.cahallfuneralhomes.com

Suzanne Glassco, age 91, of Georgetown, Ohio died Saturday, June 7, 2025 at the Ohio Valley Manor Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in Ripley, Ohio. She was a homemaker. Suzanne was born October 7, 1933 in Georgetown, Ohio the daughter of the late Clyde and Marjorie (Henize) Bolender. Besides her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband of 69 years – Marvin Glassco in 2021, whom she married September 17, 1952; one brother – Alfred Bolender and two sisters – Helen R. Mills and LeJeune Howser.

Mrs. Glassco is survived by two daughters – Karen S. Loudon (Jay) of Georgetown, Ohio and Kristi A. Blank (Alvin) of Georgetown, Ohio; three grandchildren – Carrie Kratzer (Kevin) of Georgetown, Ohio, Michael Seth Cooper (Heather) of Sardinia, Ohio and Cory William Loudon (Tina) of Milford, Ohio; four great grandchildren – Nathan and Allison Kratzer and Addison and Isabel Loudon and many nieces and nephews.

Following cremation, services will be held at the convenience of the family. The Cahall Funeral Home in Georgetown, Ohio is serving the family.

If desired, memorial donations may be made to Vitas Hospice, 11500 Northlake Drive, Suite 400, Cincinnati, Ohio 45249

Condolences may be sent to the family at www.cahallfuneralhomes.com

Randall Lee Smith, age 79, of Ripley, Ohio passed away Saturday, June 7, 2025 peacefully in his sleep. He was born August 3, 1945 in Cincinnati, Ohio the son of the late Jesse Lee and Gloria Jean (Cahall) Smith. Randy, affectionately known by many, was a beloved member of the Ripley community whose kindness and generosity touched the lives of those around him. Over the course of his life, he played an instrumental role in the development of Clermont County and downtown Cincinnati and actively engaging in civic projects that made a lasting impact in both Ripley and Georgetown. In recognition of his contributions, The Randall, a building in Mt. Auburn, was named in his honor towards the end of his life, celebrating his enduring legacy in the area. A mentor and advisor to many, Randy was a guiding force for those fortunate enough to know him. His journey was characterized by compassion, resilience, and brilliance, and his passing has created a profound void in the hearts of family and friends alike. He will be remembered for his unwavering dedication to his community and the positive influence he had on all who crossed his path. Besides his parents, Randy was preceded in death by one daughter – Christine Elizabeth Smith.

Mr. Smith is survived by his loving wife of 57 years – Diana (Tolin) Smith whom he married March 19, 1968, two daughters – Julie Smith of Ripley, Ohio and Heather Smith of Cincinnati, Ohio; one brother – Steve Smith and wife Glenna of Hamersville, Ohio; one sister – Kathleen Hawkins and husband Carl of Hamersville, Ohio; one brother-in-law – Jim Tolin and wife Becky of Georgetown, Ohio and many nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will be held at 1:00 P.M. Saturday, June 14, 2025 at the Georgetown Church of Christ, 149 Hamer Road, Georgetown, Ohio. Visitation will be from 11:00 A.M. – 1:00 P.M. Saturday at the church. Interment will be in the Confidence Cemetery in Georgetown, Ohio. The Cahall Funeral Home in Georgetown, Ohio is serving the family.

If desired, memorial contributions may be made to the Georgetown Church of Christ Food Pantry, 149 Hamer Road, Georgetown, Ohio 45121.

Condolences may be sent to the family at: www.cahallfuneralhomes.com

Bernice Schweickart, 99, of Sardinia, OH, passed away peacefully Saturday, June 7, 2025 at Monarch Meadows Nursing Home in Seaman, OH. Bernice Agnus Schweickart was born in Maysville, KY on February 19, 1926. She was raised in Russellville, OH and attended Russellville School for her education. She graduated from Russellville High School in 1944.

Bernice took pride in working for the First National Bank in Sardinia for 32 years. She also enjoyed working as a cashier for Hess Auctions for several years. When Bernice wasn’t working at her jobs, you could find her working on the farm alongside her husband of 62 years, Sam. Bernice and Sam loved going to Gatlinburg for vacation. They enjoyed taking their grandkids, Machele and Darin along with them every summer. They created many memories and traditions with the kids over the years.

Bernice is survived by her caring son and only child Daryl Schweickart (Nancy); granddaughter, Machele Clark (Jerry); grandson, Darin Schweickart (Kirsten) and great granddaughter, Emma Sue Schweickart.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Sam Schweickart, her parents, George and Bertha Seaman and her sister, Gladys Rockey.

Graveside services will be held on Wednesday, June 11, 2025 at 3:00 PM at the Ash Ridge Cemetery under the direction of the Meeker Funeral Home. Rev Jim Schroeder will be officiating.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to St. Jude’s Children Hospital.

Please sign her online tribute wall at www.meekerfuneralhomes.com.

Betty L. Rodgers, 91, of Winchester, OH, passed away Saturday, June 7, 2025 at her residence. She was born July 18, 1933 in Sardinia, OH to the late Guy and Bessie (Carson) Tumbleson. She was a school teacher in Trumbull County, OH and was a member of the Russellville Community Church. Betty was a fine musician and directed the community choir in Russellville for several years. She was a dedicated kindergarten teacher. She loved kids, music, flowers and her family.

Betty is survived by her loving husband of 68 years, Norman Rodgers of Winchester; children, Douglas (Rosanna) Rodgers of Waldron, IN, Patricia (Clair) McCalla of East Bernard, TX, Kathleen Theis of Cincinnati and Anita Rodgers of Sardinia; 8 grandchildren; 12 great grandchildren; sisters, Joyce Cole of Mt. Orab and Phyllis (Carl) Cole of Blue Creek.

A Celebration of Life will be held Saturday, June 14, 2025 at 11:00 AM at the Russellville Community Church. Rev John Hrynk will officiate.

The Meeker Funeral Home in Russellville is caring for the family.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Queen City Hospice.

Please sign her online tribute wall at www.meekerfuneralhomes.com.

Chuck Klein and his wife, now in their 80s, travel nearly half-a-mile from their home in Brown County just to check their mail. If they receive a package too large for the mailbox or one that requires a signature, they have to make a 10-mile round trip to the post office in Georgetown to pick it up. Checking the mail wasn’t always a lengthy walk or 0.4-mile drive up Hillman Ridge Road, and sometimes a trip to the Georgetown Post Office. Klein and his wife once received letters in their mailbox and big packages at their home located on their property on Hillman Ridge Road outside of Georgetown, but the USPS’s decision to declare the road unsafe for mail delivery has led to a lawsuit being filed.

Klein was among the plaintiffs who filed a lawsuit against the USPS late last year in the United States District Court, Southern District of Ohio Western Division. Also named as plaintiffs in the case are Annette Klein, Eric Havens, and Shandra Havens.

Listed as defendants in the case are the USPS, Mary Mitchell (postmaster, Georgetown Post Office) in her official capacity, and Terrence Maney (Post Office Operations Manager) in his official capacity.

The complaint filed reads, “This is a case about arbitrary and capricious government conduct, without evidentiary justification, selectively discriminating against Plaintiffs and denying them a service the government provides to many millions of Americans: Mail delivery to their properties. The government action is an abuse of discretion, contrary to law, and unsupported by evidence.”

The plaintiffs seek no money in the suit, according to Klein. Klein said he only wants his mailbox moved back to his property.

“I just want my mailbox moved,” said Klein.

Klein, a retired member of law enforcement, purchased a farm on Hillman Ridge Road outside of Georgetown in 2006. In 2013, Klein and his wife decided to move to their farm in Brown County in retirement.

Klein’s 130 acre farm is bordered by two creeks with lots of wooded area, the perfect place to settle down after retirement if you love the rural life.

“We bought it as a place for retirement and as a place for our grandchildren to be able to come out and have a safe place to play,” Klein said of his farm in Brown County.

Klein said it was in 2014 when he asked the USPS if he could have his mailbox moved to his property from a “cluster” of mailboxes located four-tenths-of-a-mile up the road from his property line. Klein’s request was approved, and his mailbox was moved to his property line in 2014. Klein said he received mail there for the next two-and-a-half years.

Hillman Ridge Road, like a number of other roads in rural Brown County, is a narrow road that can be difficult for two vehicles to pass by each other when traveling in opposite directions.

Klein said problems started after an altercation between a mail carrier and one of his former neighbors when their vehicles struggled to pass by each other on the narrow roadway, resulting in damage to one vehicle.

“This neighbor blocked him (mail carrier) and got into a shouting match with him, and I happened to come along right behind them on my way out and I’m witnessing all of this stuff,” said Klein.

The former neighbor finally agreed to move her vehicle out of the way so both vehicles could fit through, according to Klein. Klein said the former neighbor scratched her vehicle in the process of moving out of the way so both vehicles could pass by. Klein said he thought it had ended there, but his then neighbor went as far as to file a claim against the post office, claiming it was the USPS mail carrier’s fault her vehicle was scratched.

Klein said it was that incident that led to the USPS’s decision to declare Hillman Ridge Road unsafe for delivery by a mail carrier, and he would only find this out after he stopped receiving mail at his mailbox on his property. Klein said he wasn’t given notice by the USPS.

“No one told me, I just didn’t get mail for a couple of days,” Klein said of when he stopped receiving mail at the box on his property.

After not receiving mail for a couple of days, Klein contacted the postmaster at the USPS Office in Georgetown.

He was then notified that the road had been deemed unsafe and mail carriers would no longer be delivering mail on his property.

“I was dumbfounded,” said Klein. “I didn’t know what to do.”

Brown County is filled with rural roads, some of which take careful driving to navigate. But Klein’s argument brings to question what factors are taken into consideration when deeming a road unsafe for delivery by a mail carrier.

Klein said he is highly appreciative of the work by local USPS mail carriers, and he knows they are not responsible for the decision made by the USPS to deem Hillman Ridge Road unsafe for mail delivery.

“There’s no animosity here. They’re just doing their jobs and what they think is right. They’re following their rules,” Klein said of the postal workers.

Klein was told he would not receive mail until his mailbox was moved back to the “cluster” of mailboxes on Hillman Ridge Road, four-tenths-of-a-mile from his property line.

After checking the road at the request of Klein, one postmaster decided the road was safe for mail delivery and allowed Klein to move his box back to his property; but according to Klein the mail carrier refused to deliver mail to the box on his property because the road had been declared unsafe and the declaration, technically, had not been lifted. So, mail delivery was stopped again to the mailbox on Klein’s property last year.

“That’s why I filed suit. I said, ‘Enough is enough, I’m going to have to do something about this,’” said Klein.

If a state,county, or township roadway is declared unsafe, is it then required to undergo repairs to make it safe?

The Ohio Department of Transportation is responsible for the state system of roads (interstates or U.S. routes outside of municipalities, according to information provided by ODOT.

State or U.S. routes within a corporation’s limits are maintained by that municipality. Local routes, including residential streets, are maintained by the city, village, county, or township, depending on where the route is located. ODOT does not maintain local routes, according to information found at https://www.transportation.ohio.gov/about-us/basics/maintenance.

The defendants in the case filed a motion to dismiss on April 3 for lack of subject matter jurisdiction, and the plaintiff’s later responded to the motion to dismiss.

“USPS has never provided a traffic engineering report justifying its arbitrary refusal to serve Klein although other similarly situated residents in the same county receive USPS mail service at their properties and even on roads in lesser condition than Klein’s road,” it said in the amended complaint by the plaintiffs.

In a response to Klein from his attorney Richard Ganulin, Ganulin said that the government continues to argue that Klein does not have a right to claim in federal court an unconstitutional denial of equal protection, but rather he can only argue a deprivation of a statutory right to the Postal Regulatory Commission.

“The same culpable conduct can violate more than one law. The unlawful USPS conduct can be both a constitutional deprivation and a statutory deprivation,” it said in Ganulin’s recent email response to Klein.

The plaintiffs are now awaiting a decision.

“Now it’s up to the judge to determine if the case goes forward,” Klein said in a recent email to The News Democrat, Ripley Bee, and Brown County Press.

It’s a day that Larry Gardner will always remember. A day when he competed in the OHSAA Class A state track and field shot put event in Columbus, and captured the state title. The day was May 23, 1975, and this year marks the 50th anniversary of Gardner’s impressive toss for the state crown. Gardner, who held a deep love for the game of basketball, was a versatile athlete in high school who not only competed in throwing events on the track and field team, but also ran sprints.

Without a weight room, Gardner’s impressive strength and agility didn’t come from a scheduled workout routine, but rather from working on the family farm outside of Georgetown and practicing basketball in the gym.

“I was either farming or in the gym,” Gardner said of his years as a high school student/athlete.

“I had no weights, no throwing shoes, and no pit. I threw off the playground, or off the road out here,” Gardner said of his high school shot put training.

Members of the Georgetown community and in other parts of Brown County still share stories of Gardner’s incredible strength as a high school student/athlete and as a Division I college athlete at Morehead State University. Some have said that he could bust a fully inflated basketball by squeezing it. When asked if the story was true, Gardner’s reply was “yes.”

While attending Morehead University as a student/athlete, Gardner could bench press 475 pounds or more and squat at least 650 pounds after he eventually started lifting weights.

Gardner’s track and field team from the early to mid 1970s was one that would make its marks in the Georgetown High School sports record books, one of the best G-Men track and field teams in the school’s history that was led by the most decorated high school track and field coach in the school’s history. Also a member of the team was Gardner’s good friend, Mike Becraft, who lived just down the road. Becraft was a standout and national class cross country and track and field runner for Georgetown High School, winning the Ohio High School State Championship in 1973 along with six state runner-up finishes and numerous other top five placements.

Gardner and Becraft spent a great deal of time together on the farm, developing a close friendship over the years.

As part of the G-Men team, Gardner and Becraft scored enough points to earn the Georgetown team third place in the state, missing state runner-up by just one point, according to Gardner.

The accomplishments of the Georgetown track and field team from the early to mid 1970s are still celebrated today by the Georgetown community, and Gardner’s accomplishments have earned him a spot in the Georgetown High School Athletic Hall of Fame and the Brown County Athletic Hall of Fame.

Gardner never lost a shot put event during his senior year in 1975. Of all three classes in Ohio (Class A, AA, and AAA), Gardner had the second longest throw.

Gardner finished runner-up in the state in the shot put event as a junior in 1974. He broke the state record in 1974, but it was broken later by the state shot put champion that year.

Gardner held the state championship record for three years with his throw of 57-7.75.

According to Gardner, he still holds the Southwestern District record in the Cincinnati area, the oldest record in all three classes, with a throw of 57-1.

While basketball was originally Gardner’s favorite sport in high school, it was the late legendary coach Vern Hawkins who helped him develop a love for track and field.

“I pretty much was a basketball player, and track was a fun sport. Vern Hawkins made it fun,” said Gardner.

It was Larry Gardner’s brother, Lynn, who helped to spark his interest in competing in the shot put event as a high school athlete.

“My brother, Lynn, he’s the guy who kind of got me throwing when I was a little kid,” said Larry Gardner.

Gardner went on to hold the long-standing Georgetown High School shot put record at 58-7. Gardner’s school record was eventually broken by 2013 Georgetown High School graduate Jess Adamson with a throw of 63-5.75.

It was former Georgetown basketball coach Bernie Cropper and Lynn Gardner who encouraged Larry Gardner to attend Morehead State University as a student/athlete, the chance to earn a college degree in education and compete in a sport he loves.

Gardner attended Morehead State with his friend Mike Becraft.

“It was a good decision,” Gardner said of his choice to attend Morehead State.

Unfortunately, injury limited Gardner’s success in track and field at Morehead State. But he’s thankful to have gotten the opportunity to be able to compete against and see some of the top athletes in the world while at Morehead State, and to experience the college life.

“I saw a lot of great athletes at track meets in the four years at Morehead,” said Gardner.

Larry Gardner went on to become the industrial arts instructor at Felicity-Franklin High School, where he worked for 33 years while also farming full time.

To this day, Gardner continues to express his appreciation of Hawkins, who helped to steer him in the right direction as a young student/athlete.

“The reason all of those state championships are up there on that wall (at Georgetown High School) are because of him,” Gardner said of Hawkins.

Gardner still carries a love for the competition, and around 15 years ago he competed in a masters throwing event. He was able to throw a 16-pound shot put over 40-feet while in his late 40s and early 50s.

Today, Larry Gardner enjoys life with his wife, Liz, his children, and grandchildren. He’s now a full-time farmer whose hobby is collecting and restoring antique machinery, mainly tractors.

Carrying on the family sports tradition are his daughters Mindy Hastings and Amanda Johnson who coach and teach, and his grandchildren, who are student/athletes within the Georgetown Exempted Village School District (Anna Hastings, Lauren Johnson, Will Hastings and Lydia Johnson).

Mindy Hastings, 1998 Georgetown High School graduate, broke Georgetown shot put and discus records and went on to attend Rio Grande University.

Lydia Johnson, a Georgetown eighth grader, recently competed in the Ohio Seventh and Eighth Grade State Track and Field Championship Meet, finishing third in the shot put event with a throw of 41-3.25.

His grandchildren all compete in sports, and Larry Gardner is their biggest fan.

Such success in sports comes with its share of challenges, and Larry Gardner has certainly overcome his share of difficulties to reach his goals in life. But looking back on all of the memories, Gardner said he wouldn’t change a thing if given the opportunity.

“I don’t think I would do anything different,” said Gardner.

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Stephen Charles Thomas, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle and friend, who passed away peacefully on June 4, 2025, at the age of 79.

Stephen was born on February 24, 1946 at Hayswood Hospital in Maysville, Kentucky to Omar and Gladys Thomas. He was preceded in death by his parents, whose values of hard work & humility shaped the foundation of his life. He was blessed to share his life with Joyce McAfee Thomas, who was not only his partner, but a wonderful helping hand in raising their children. Together, they built a home filled with love, stability and quiet strength. Stephen is survived by his sons, Stephen Lowell Thomas (Erin Roche) & Jason Charles Thomas, his grandchildren, Alexis Colliver(Blake), Sara Marsden Thomas, Mason Roche and Charlotte Roche, that he loved and doted on deeply. He is also survived by his beloved “brother” as they referred to each other, rather than calling by name , Lowell C. O. Thomas of Venice, Florida and many nieces & nephews, each of whom held a special place in his heart and brought him joy and pride over the years.

A proud blue-collar man, Stephen spent many years working at Dayton Power & Light (DP&L), where he was known for his steady presence, strong work ethic and integrity. He worked mostly third shift on Unit 3 and was known as “Honest Steve” to most of his co-workers. Way before his retirement at DP&L was near, he embarked on a second career, alongside his sons during the mid “80’s” the birth of Thomas Auto Sales. Together they built a successful used car business, along with a salvage yard, known in the community for its honesty and heart. With humor and humility, they always said, “We sell vehicles scratch & dent, so you can afford to pay the rent” or “If you buy from Thomas Auto, you can put the title in the glovebox, instead of the payment book” or on the convertibles “Top goes down, price goes up” A reflection of the honest approach and care for the people they served.

Stephen had a lifelong love for antiques and found joy in tinkering with cars. Be believed in preserving old, fixing what others overlooked and taking pride in craftsmanship. He believed in making things last, fixing rather than replacing, and inputting love into everything he worked on.

Visitation will be held Saturday June 7, from 12:00-2:00 PM followed immediately by funeral services at Cahall Funeral Home in Ripley, Ohio. Interment will follow the funeral service in Charter Oak Cemetery in Aberdeen, Ohio.

In lieu of flowers, the family invites you to honor Stephen’s memory by helping someone in need, fixing up something forgotten or simply living with great quiet pride, loyalty and kindness he showed every day.

Condolences may be sent to the family at: www.cahallfuneralhomes.com

A 1970 graduate of Elder High School, Terry went on to marry the love of his life, Jane Gilfilen, on October 25, 1975. In 1978, he became the proud owner of the Wallingford Store, which he transformed into Terry’s Grocery and Pizza — a cornerstone of the community that he faithfully operated for 46 years.

Terry’s heart belonged to his family and his hometown. He gave generously of his time and energy, always finding ways to support others. Whether through his involvement with the Lynchburg-Clay Boosters and Fayetteville Boosters, or simply lending a helping hand, Terry’s impact on those around him was deep and lasting.

Known for his quick wit and playful sense of humor, Terry was a beloved jokester who brought laughter and light wherever he went. He had a special passion for baseball, coaching both his children and grandchildren through the years. In his spare time, he enjoyed woodworking, home remodeling, and working with his hands—always building something with care and pride.

Terry was a lifelong member of the Ohio Farm Bureau and attended St. Angela Merici Catholic Church.

He will be remembered for his generous spirit, his unwavering work ethic, and the love he shared so freely with his family, friends, and neighbors. He was truly one of a kind and will be missed beyond words.

Terry is survived by his wife of 49 years, Jane A. McGinnis whom he married on October 25, 1975; five children, Bridgette (Ron) Pritchard of Fayetteville, T.J. McGinnis of Lynchburg, Jessica McGinnis of Lynchburg, Nicole (Ryan) Van Fleet of Lynchburg, and Deirdre (Bruce) Butler of Lynchburg; 18 grandchildren, Savannah Pritchard, Sabrina Pritchard, Mason McGinnis, Tiah McGinnis, Zoey McGinnis, Roselyn McGinnis, Leilani McGinnis, Vayda McGinnis, Greyson McGinnis, Trinity Van Fleet, Olivia Van Fleet, Alexander Van Fleet, Everett Van Fleet, Arlin Van Fleet, Brooks Van Fleet, Vivian Van Fleet, Brogan Butler, and Brayden Butler; five siblings, Kathy (Rick) Voss of Delhi, Mike (Dee) McGinnis Evendale, Steve (Chris) McGinnis Prince Hill, Kevin McGinnis of Prince Hill, and Shawn McGinnis of Prince Hill; an uncle, Dion McGinnis of Delhi; 10 brothers and sisters-in-law, Hank (Marilyn) Gilfilen, Terry (Henry) Brinkman, Peg (Dean) Skidmore, Judy (Rick) Roush, Mark Gilfilen, Jenny (Mark) Rosselot, Eddy (Stacey) Gilfilen, Kathy (David) Briggs, Laury (Daryl) Iles, Chris Gilfilen, and numerous nieces, nephews, and friends. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by an infant sister, Maureen McGinnis, and a brother-in-law, Steve Gilfilen.

Visitation will be held from 4:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. on Monday June 9, 2025, at the Lynchburg-Clay High School Gymnasium, 6762 SR 134 S, Lynchburg, Ohio 45142. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10:30 a.m. on Tuesday June 10, 2025, at the St. Angela Merici Catholic Church, 130 Stone Alley, Fayetteville, OH 45118. Father Andrew Cordonnier will be the Celebrant. Burial will follow in the St. Martin Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Terry’s name to the Shriners Children’s Ohio, Office of Philanthropy, One Children’s Plaza – 2 West, Dayton, Ohio 45404. The Davis-Turner Funeral Home is serving the family. To leave the family and online condolence, please visit www.turnerfuneralhomes.cc

Juanita V. Stone, age 91, of Sardinia, Ohio passed away Thursday, June 5, 2025 at her residence with her family by her side. She was born July 2, 1933 in Winchester, Kentucky the daughter of the late James M. Elkin, Jr. and Estella (Wells) Elkin. Juanita a retired electronics supervisor for Cincinnati Electrode Systems, was a woman of unwavering faith and devotion. Her life was a testament to her commitment to her church and community, she was an active member of the First Baptist Church in Mt. Orab, Ohio, where she served as a Sunday School and Vacation Bible School teacher and participated in the church choir. Juanita’s unwavering faith in God guided her involvement in various ministries throughout her life. She was a proud member and former president of the Women’s Missionary Union and actively contributed to the Ohio Baptist Disaster Relief Team. In this role, she traveled across the United States to assist communities impacted by natural disasters, providing meals and support to those in need. Additionally, she volunteered with the Ohio Baptist Builders Team, offering meals to workers involved in constructing nearly 30 churches. Alongside her husband, Juanita shared her love for music as an alto singer in a gospel quartet for 15 years. Together, they traveled to help establish Baptist churches and led Bible study sessions in their home. Juanita had a passion for nature, often found tending to her flower beds, earning her the affectionate nickname “Flower Lady” from her neighbors. She enjoyed working with her hands, engaging in woodworking, crafts and demonstrating her skills as a seamstress by creating clothing and home furnishings for her family. A lifelong learner, she always made time to read and study her Bible, deepening her faith and understanding. Juanita’s legacy is marked by her compassion, creativity and steadfast faith, leaving an impact on all who knew her. Besides her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband of 56 years – Ernest C. Stone, Jr. in 2006, whom she married May 17, 1950, one daughter – Deborah Martin in 2015, one brother – James Elkin and one sister – Marie Butler.

Mrs. Stone is survived by three children – Vickie A. Wright and husband Danny of Batavia, Ohio and Karen Spurlock and Darrell Stone both of Sardinia, Ohio; one son-in-law – Jerry Martin of Hillsboro, Ohio, eight grandchildren – Kieth Wright and wife Tracy, Jennifer Schmidt and husband John, Stephanie Hopkins and husband Jeff, Stacey Neal and husband Cecil, Shellie Crabb and husband Jason, Matthew Spurlock, Kristin Barber and Justin Stone and wife Jessica; numerous great grandchildren and great-great grandchildren; many nieces and nephews and her fur baby – Barney.

Funeral services will be held at 1:00 P.M. Tuesday, June 10, 2025 at the First Baptist Church, 704 South High Street, Mt.Orab, Ohio 45154. Pastor Ed Jones will officiate. Visitation will be from 12:00 P.M. – 1:00 P.M. Tuesday at the church. Interment will be in the Mt.Orab Cemetery in Mt.Orab, Ohio. The Cahall Funeral Home in Mt.Orab, Ohio is serving the family.

Condolences may be sent to the family at www.cahallfuneralhomes.com

Leslie Ray Miller, age 72, of Georgetown, Ohio passed away Thursday, June 5, 2025 at his home due to complications of Alzheimer’s disease. His working career consisted of being a fiberglass laminator/ fabricator for boats and yachts, a high school transportation director, a custodian and Toyota parts delivery driver. Les loved his Lord and Savior, his family, music, camping, horseshoes, and many animals over his blessed life. He was born January 9, 1953 in Georgetown, Ohio the son of the late Willard and Wilma (Dumford) Miller, Sr. Besides his parents, Les was also preceded in death by four brothers – Willard Miller, Jr., Melvin Miller, Donald Miller and Fred Miller and four sisters – Virginia Watkins, Loretta Davis, Patricia Ayers and Janice Clark.

Mr. Miller is survived by his loving wife of 51 years – Mary Colleen (Titus) Miller whom he married August 4, 1973; two brothers – John Miller and wife LuAnn of Mt. Orab, Ohio and Jim Miller and wife Donna of Titusville, Florida; three sisters – Barbara Miller and Martha Miller both of Georgetown, Ohio and his twin, Louann Henderson and husband Tony of Mt. Orab, Ohio and many loving extended family members and friends.

Funeral services will be held at 12:00 P.M. Tuesday, June 10, 2025 at the Hamersville Baptist Church, 1661 S.R. 125, Hamersville, Ohio 45130. Pastor Rob Farber will officiate. Visitation will be from 10:00 A.M. – 12:00 P.M. Tuesday at the church. Interment will be in the Williamsburg Cemetery in Williamsburg, Ohio. The Cahall Funeral Home in Georgetown, Ohio is serving the family.

If desired memorials may be made to the Brown County Animal Shelter, 100 Veterans Blvd., Georgetown, Ohio 45121.

Condolences may be sent to the family at: www.cahallfuneralhomes.com

Vada Day, age 93, of Hamersville, Ohio died Thursday, June 5, 2025 at the Ohio Valley Manor Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in Ripley, Ohio. She was retired from the former Georgetown Nursing Home after twenty years of employment and a member of the Hamersville Church of Christ. Vada was born January 26, 1932 in Greenbush, Ohio the daughter of the late Guy and Betsy Marie (Ranson) Malott. She was also preceded in death by her husband - Kenneth Day in 1997 and five siblings – Vernon, Imogene, Sharon, Ada and Ava.

Mrs. Day is survived by one daughter - Kendra Hollinsworth and husband Larry of Georgetown, Ohio; one son – Travis Day and wife Linda of Hamersville, Ohio; three grandchildren – Chad Vance and wife Krystle of Sardinia, Ohio, Kyle Hollingsworth of Japan and Selina Day and four great grandchildren – Braxton and Bexlee Vance and Remi and Mio Hollingsworth.

Private Graveside Services will be held Wednesday, June 11, 2025 at the convenience of the family at Confidence Cemetery in Georgetown, Ohio. Jeff Davis will officiate. The Cahall Funeral Home in Georgetown, Ohio is serving the family.

If desired, memorials may be made to Queen City Hospice, 19583 US 68, Fayetteville, Ohio 45118.

Condolences may be sent to the family at: www.cahallfuneralhomes.com

Ruth Eleanor Bare, 88, of Aberdeen, Ohio, passed away Thursday, May 29, 2025 at Ohio Valley Manor Nursing and Rehabilitation Center near Ripley, Ohio. She was retired from the former US Shoe Factory in Ripley and was a member of the Orangeburg Methodist Church in Orangeburg, Kentucky. Mrs. Bare was born March 14, 1937 in Williamsburg, Ohio the daughter of the late Clarence Penny and Katherine Allen. She was also preceded in death by a sister in law – Linda Lou Bare and a brother in law Larry Bare.

Mrs. Bare is survived by a daughter – Rebecca Hampton (Barry) of Maysville, Kentucky; a sister – Jeanie Craig of Williamsburg, Ohio; a special niece – Sandra Daughtery of Aberdeen, Ohio; a brother in law – Dale Bare (Peggy) of Maysville, Kentucky; a sister in law – Linda Bare of Aberdeen, Ohio; nieces and nephews.

Following cremation, a memorial graveside service will be held at 11:00 A.M. Saturday, June 14, 2025 at Red Oak Cemetery near Ripley, Ohio. Brother Dale Bare will officiate.

Condolences may be sent to the family at: www.cahallfuneralhomes.com

Leah Becknell, 87, of Hillsboro, OH, passed away Tuesday, June 3,2025 at her residence. She was born October 18, 1937 in Cincinnati, OH to the late Edwin A. and Helen (Lodwick) Straub. She was a member of the Winchester Baptist Church.

In addition to her parents, she was also preceded in death by her husband Vernon Becknell; sons, Joe and Mark Becknell; daughter, Verna Lynn Becknell; brothers, Billie and David Althammer; grandson, Wayne Becknell.

Leah is survived by her children, Glenn (Evelyn) Becknell of Winchester, Danny Becknell of Hillsboro and Teresa Hyden of Hillsboro; 11 grandchildren; several great grandchildren; 1 great-great-grandson; brother, Tommy Straub of Eastgate; special friend, Rosie Watt of Sardinia as well as many nieces, nephews and friends.

Funeral services will be held Thursday, June 5, 2025 at 2:00 PM at the Meeker Funeral Home in Russellville. Pastor Steve Bankhead will officiate. Burial will follow in the Linwood Cemetery. Visitation will be held from 12:00 PM until the time of the service.

Please sign his online tribute wall at www.meekerfuneralhomes.com.

Don W. Rutherford, 83, passed away suddenly on his farm Friday, May 30, 2025 of a heart attack. Don was born April 7, 1942, at home in Russellville, Ohio, the son of Harry and Faye (Prickett) Rutherford.

He graduated from Russellville High School in 1960 and recently celebrated his 65th class reunion with former classmates.

Don raised cattle and was a lifelong farmer in the Sardinia area. He worked for Dannie Hess Auction Company for several years. He loved playing and watching basketball and was a very serious fisherman.

He is survived by his wife of 55 years, Martha (Yockey) Rutherford, their children, Abbe Copple of Waverly, Ohio; Blake Rutherford (fiancée Beth Fetters) Russellville, Ohio; Jody (Stephen) Harner of Xenia, Ohio; grandson Patrick (Maiya) Copple, Spokane, Washington; sister-in-law Joan Yockey; and brother-in law Ronald Lee Yockey. Also surviving are several nieces, nephews, friends and lifelong best friend Donald Thomas.

In addition to his parents, Don was preceded in death by his infant granddaughter, Emma Grace Harner; sister-in-law, Judith Thomson, and brother-in-law, Dale Yockey.

The funeral service will be held Wednesday, June 4, 2025, at 1:00 p.m. at Peace Lutheran Church, Arnheim, Ohio with Pastor Laura Shreffler officiating. Visitation will be from 10:00 a.m. to time of service. Burial will follow in Peace Lutheran Cemetery. Arrangements are entrusted to Meeker Funeral Home in Russellville.

If desired, memorial contributions may be made to the Peace Lutheran Church, 10581 Day Hill Road, Georgetown, Ohio 45121 or the Brown County 4-H Committee, 325 W. State Street Bldg. B, Georgetown Ohio 45121.

Please sign his online tribute wall at www.meekerfuneralhomes.com.

Harrison Ray Turner, 80, of Ripley, Ohio, passed away Monday, May 26, 2025 at Ohio Valley Manor Nursing and Rehabilitation Center near Ripley. He was born January 8, 1945 in Bethel, Ohio the son of the late Roy and Morine (Baker) Turner. He was also preceded in death by two daughters – Virginia Turner and Victoria Bowens.

Mr. Turner is survived by his loving wife of fifty-four years - Barbara Turner; four children – Paul Turner of Mt. Orab, Ohio, Sherry Hall (Stacey) of Tennessee, Donna Dugan (Brian) of Mayslick, Kentucky and Ray Turner (Kristina) of Ripley, Ohio; many grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Following cremation, inurnment will be in Maplewood Cemetery in Ripley, Ohio.

Shirley Simpson Luke, age 79, of Ripley, Ohio passed away Saturday, May 24, 2025 at her home with her loving family by her side. She was born August 5, 1945 in Fleming County, Kentucky, one of eleven children born to the late Foster and Olive (Mineer) Simpson. Shirley was a graduate of the Georgetown High School class of 1964 and dedicated many years of her professional life as a secretary for Cincinnati Milacron. Outside of her professional life, she found immense joy in the simple pleasures of gardening, baking and attending the Georgetown Church of the Nazarene. Family was the cornerstone of her life, cherishing the time and memories shared with her grandchildren, instilling in them the same values, love and kindness that she exemplified daily. Shirley leaves behind a legacy of compassion, dedication and unwavering love that will be missed by her family and friends. Her memory will continue to bloom in the gardens she tended, in every sweet treat she baked and in every smile she shared. Besides her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband of 53 years – James Edward Luke in 2020 whom she married February 12, 1966, two brothers – Ronald Wayne and James Simpson and one sister – Rebecca Watson.

Mrs. Luke is survived by one daughter – Kris Frye of Ripley, Ohio; four grandchildren – Ryan Frye of Maysville, Kentucky, Blake Frye of Heber City, Utah, Emma Frye of Cincinnati, Ohio and Eli Frye of Maysville, Kentucky; seven sisters – Nancy Amyx and husband Jim of Georgetown, Ohio, Helen Thompson of Flemingsburg, Kentucky, Bonnie Bradford and husband John Wagner of Bradenton, Florida, Geri Smith of Lawrenceville, Georgia, Linda Vance of Russellville, Ohio, Diana Jodrey and husband Dale of Decatur, Ohio and Teresa Jones of Spring Hill, Florida and numerous nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will be held at 1:00 P.M. Saturday, May 31, 2025 at the Cahall Funeral Home in Georgetown, Ohio. Cynthia Church will officiate. Visitation will be from 11:00 A.M. – 1:00 P.M. Saturday at the funeral home. Interment will be in the Linwood Cemetery in Russellville, Ohio.

Condolences may be sent to the family at: www.cahallfuneralhomes.com