James D. DeLong (Speedy) peacefully passed away on Saturday, September 21, 2024, at the age of 86. Born on March 15, 1938, in Pikeville, Kentucky, he was the son of James George DeLong and Clara Armina (Bloomfield).
James attended Madison South and was a member of the American Legion, the Eagles, and the VFW in London. He served in the United States Army. James worked most of his life as a mechanic and retired from the City of London. James was highly active throughout his life and enjoyed participating in demolition derbies, hunting, fishing, golfing, and his all-time favorite activity, playing softball. James was on many teams throughout the years, and this was where he was given the name many people only knew him as, “Speedy.”
Preceded in death by his parents, wife of 45 years Linda L. (Hoover-Burris), granddaughters Tara Burris and Sarah Burris.
Left to cherish his memory are his children, Linda Kay (DeLong) Sockman, Mark (Karen) DeLong, Mike (Teri) DeLong, Brenda (Jack) Seiler, Jona (Teresa) Burris, Mary Jane (Ron “Jake”) Jakeway, Mike (Rhonda) Burris, and David DeLong; Grandchildren, Brittany (Matt) Osborne, Ryan Muncie, Trina DeLong, Kim Michener (Cory), Heather (Ellis) DeLong, Brandy Hamilton, Megyn Hamilton, Jason (Amber) DeLong, Jerrad (Megan) Goodlin, Robert “BJ” (Jamie) Parsons, Eric (Brittany) Parsons, Tina (David) Gibson, Tami Jo Jakeway, Robert Williams, Elisha (Roy) Crago, Jonie (Jordan) Hedge, Emily (Dustin) Burris, Kristin (Zach) Burris, Rachel (Joe) Michnicki, Tyler (Courtney) DeLong; Great-grandchildren, Cheyenne Muncie, Dylan Miller, Hunter Michener, Skylar Michener, Dakota Tackett, Ember Tackett, Skylee DeLong, Summer DeLong, Lily DeLong, Lukas Goodlin, Bella Goodlin, Elizabeth Goodlin, Wyatt Goodlin, Cerstin Parsons, RJ Parsons, Parker Parsons, Scarlett Parsons, Nickolas Dillion, Lynden Williams, Jocelyn Crago, Brynlee Grooms, Jenna Hedge, Jace Hedge, Katie Williams, Zachary Williams, Bradley Johnson, Autumn Johnson, Noah Gibson, Cooper Gibson, Aaron Jakeway, Jocelyn Crago, Gianna Burris, Gracelyn Campbell, Ryan Michnicki, Emma Michnicki, Evelyn DeLong, Elliot DeLong, Emelia DeLong; Great-great grandchildren, Aubree Miller, Roselee Williams, Aliza Abrams, Aybel Abrams, Asher Abrams, Vivian Parsons.
The passing of Speedy, will leave a profound void in our hearts. He was someone you could call on for help with the certainty of knowing he would be there. He raised his eight children to value honesty, integrity, hard work and dedication. James loved his family more than anything and his unconditional love for each and every one was exemplary. His smile and laugh will forever be etched in our hearts.
Speedy’s family and friends invite you to call at The Eberle-Fisher Funeral Home, 103 North Main Street, London, on Tuesday, October 1st, from 11:00AM - 1:00PM with a funeral service beginning at 1:00 PM. Interment will follow at the Paint Memorial Cemetery, London.
In lieu of flowers, memorials in Speedy’s name may be sent to the funeral home for the benevolence of the family in aiding with funeral costs. Donation envelopes will be available at the funeral home, or payments may be accepted online under the “Donations” tab at the top of the obituary.
Condolences for Speedy’s family are encouraged to be shared online at
www.eberlefisherfuneralhome.com
Obituaries
James Derek Crawford, 61, of Springfield, died unexpectedly on Saturday, September 28, 2024, in his residence.
Born January 23, 1963, in Springfield, he was a son of Willie James Crawford and Rosemary (Miller) Crawford.
A man of God, James was a long-time member of the Greater Grace Temple in Springfield. A jokester through and through, James also enjoyed riding bikes and spending time with his family.
James leaves behind his mother Rosemary Crawford; siblings Ronald (Linda) Crawford, Millard Crawford, Craig (Anita) Crawford, and Rosalind Crawford; numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.
He was preceded in death by his father Willie James Crawford; grandparents Woodrow Miller and Josephine (Cooper) Miller; great-grandparents Lulamae and Harry Cooper.
The family will receive friends for visitation on Monday, October 7, 2024, from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM in the EBERLE-FISHER FUNERAL HOME AND CREMATORY, 103 North Main Street, London, Ohio 43140. A funeral service will begin at 1:00 PM with Pastor Charles Cooper and Pastor Gary Cooper officiating.
Condolences for the family are encouraged to be shared online at www.eberlefisherfuneralhome.com.
Betty Louise Owens (née Plumhoff), age 80, passed away on August 31, 2024, in London, Ohio. Born on February 17, 1944, in Salisbury, Maryland, Betty dedicated her life to nurturing and caring for those around her.
Betty was a beloved housewife and later expanded her nurturing qualities beyond her family by supporting many children in her neighborhood, earning her the affectionate title of "mom" from many. Her passion for cooking led her to a fulfilling career at Madison County Hospital, where she served in various capacities in the kitchen and cafeteria until her retirement. She now enjoys the title of Grandma as her family continues to grow with her love, caring, and guidance.
A vibrant and loving individual, Betty also found joy in dance and aerobics, performing throughout the county and bringing joy to many. Her family, friends, and all who knew her will deeply feel her absence.
Betty is survived by her children, George Peyton, Charles Peyton, Betty Garney, and Karen Johnson, along with their spouses, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. She also leaves behind a large and loving family of eleven sisters and three brothers. Betty was preceded in death by her parents, Dorthy and Louis Heim, and her husband, Karl Owens.
In accordance with her wishes, there will be no memorial services. Instead, a celebration of life will be planned for the spring of 2025, during which her life and legacy will be joyously remembered.
The family asks that if you wish to commemorate her, a donation to the Madison County Humane Society be made in her name in lieu of flowers. Memorials can be addressed to 2020 State Route 142 NE, West Jefferson, Ohio 43162.
The EBERLE-FISHER FUNERAL HOME AND CREMATORY, 103 North Main Street, London, Ohio 43140, is honored to be serving Betty’s family. Condolences are encouraged to be shared online at www.eberlefisherfuneralhome.com.
Heaven gained another angel Friday August 23, 2024, when Sharon “Sherry” Kay (Leffler) Shade, 77, of London, Ohio passed peacefully at London Health and Rehabilitation, surrounded by her loving family.
She was born December 14, 1946, in Troy, Ohio, the daughter of Faith (Dick) Leffler.
Blessed with beauty both inside and out, Sherry worked as a caregiver for individuals with developmental disabilities and loved every minute spent with them. Additionally, she worked as a model for many years, booking jobs across the country including several in New York City. Sherry also managed Eldorado’s, a bar in Columbus where she formed many lifelong friendships and countless memories made.
Sherry enjoyed gardening and was an excellent cook, always making the most delicious meals for her family and friends. With a love for shopping, for anything; she liked venturing to various stores and would be sure to stop at each and every garage sale she found along the way.
Left behind to continue her legacy include her children, daughter, Lena “Lee Lee” Massey of Joplin, Missouri, William “Bill” Massey of Sanford, North Carolina, and Gabrielle “Gaby” (Shade) & Doug Downing of Apex, North Carolina; six grandchildren: Tiffany, Joshua, Jessica, Apollo, Stella, and Faith; eight great-grandchildren; five great-great grandchildren; brother, Lawrence “Larry” & Katie Leffler Jr.; special friends, Jim Shade, Debbie Day, Ashley Good-Wheeler and Lucy; many cousins and friends.
Sherry was preceded in death by her mother Faith (Dick) Leffler and her grandmother Lena Dick.
A celebration of Sherry’s life will be held On Saturday, October 19, 2024, at Eldorado’s, 4968 N. High St. Columbus, Ohio 43214, beginning at 3:00 pm. There will be memories, stories, laughter, love & tears; just the way she would want it.
The family is being served by the EBERLE-FISHER FUNERAL HOME AND CREMATORY, 103 North Main Street, London, Ohio 43140, where condolences are encouraged to be shared online at
www.eberlefisherfuneralhome.com
Ronnie Joe Richmond, 67, of Springfield, formerly of London, died Wednesday, September 4, 2024, in his residence surrounded by his loving family.
Born May 21, 1957, in Lancaster, Ohio, he was a son of Denver Richmond and Margaret (Grimmit) Richmond. Growing up in Hinton, West Virginia, Ronnie loved being outdoors and learning the best fishing holes. After graduating high school, Ronnie went on to serve in the United States Army. Following his time in the service, he worked several jobs including opening his own cleaning company named Richmond Carpet Cleaning. Never one to stay idle for long, Ronnie was a jack-of-all-trades who was always able to find a new project to work on. Ronnie enjoyed Dodge trucks, fishing, collecting coins and antiques, and shooting guns. He had a soft spot for animals and had always been an avid animal lover. Ronnie also liked playing card games such as solitaire and rummy, but his favorite gathering was always family time spent around the bonfire. His wife, sons, and grandsons meant the world to him, and their memories made together will forever be treasured.
Ronnie leaves behind his adoring wife of 44 magical years, Kimberly (Cox) Richmond; sons Ronnie Joe (Christa) Richmond II and Travis Joe “T.J.” (Judy) Richmond; grandsons Ronnie Joe “RJ” Richmond III and Tyee Lee Richmond; sister Eva (Ray) Bragg, brother Tommy Richmond; several close nieces and nephews; dear friend Tony Xenikis; four-legged companion Zeva.
He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers Denny and Bobby Richmond; sisters Ruth Ann Redman and Norma Jean (Misty) Koeth.
Cremation will take place in accordance with Ronnie’s wishes. Public services will not be observed.
In lieu of flowers, condolences in Ronnie’s name may be sent to the funeral home for the benevolence of the family. Memorials may be mailed or called into the funeral home, or may be submitted online through the “Donations” tab at the top of the obituary.
The EBERLE-FISHER FUNERAL HOME AND CREMATORY, 103 North Main Street, London, Ohio 43140, is honored to be serving Ronnie’s family through this difficult time. Condolences are welcomed to be shared online at
www.eberlefisherfuneralhome.com.
Richard D. Minner, 88, of London, died Friday, September 27, 2024, in The Ohio State University Hospital.
Born March 29, 1936, in Plain City, Ohio, he was a son of Charles and Margaret (Kinney) Minner.
Dick retired in 1995, as the Chief of the London Fire Department after 38 years of service.
A US Navy veteran, he was a long-time member of the First United Methodist Church of London, was on London City Council for 16 years and was the owner and operator of Minner Fire Equipment.
Survivors include his wife of 64 years Sue (Jones) Minner; children Charles (Sandra) Minner, Amy Minner, Robert (Jennifer) Minner and Thomas (Kristie) Minner; grandchildren Hannah (Emmanuel Akomeah), Sully (Kendra), Mackenzie, Colin, Jessie, Emily, Jack, Logan, Ethan and Robby; great grandchildren Sunny Mae and Levi; sister Margaret (Bill) Sheets; many nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents and brothers Bob, Tom and Bill Minner.
Funeral services will be held at 11 AM Thursday, October 3, 2024, in the First United Methodist Church of London, with Pastor Dave Leckrone officiating. Interment will follow in Kirkwood Cemetery, London. Friends may call at the church from 3-7 PM Wednesday, October 2, 2024.
Memorials in Dick’s name may be made to the First United Methodist Church, 52 N. Main Street, London, Ohio 43140.
The family is being served by the EBERLE-FISHER FUNERAL HOME AND CREMATORY, 103 N. Main Street, London, where online condolences for the family may be sent to
www.eberlefisherfuneralhome.com
Michael Kent, 65, of London, Ohio, unexpectedly passed away on Sunday, September 29, 2024, after enduring a long medical journey and was surrounded by his family.
Michael was born on March 30, 1959, in Schwäbisch Gmünd, Germany, the son of Richard Charles Kent and Helga Elisabeth Kent (nee Hieronymus).
Michael graduated in 1977 from Miami Trace High School and immediately upon graduating took an oath for the armed forces.
Michael joined the Army in 1977 and was stationed in Germany and after three years was honorably discharged. A few years being back in Washington Court House, he decided to return to military service. This time, Michael reenlisted in the Air Force in 1982 and served in security police for 10 years while stationed at various bases abroad and stateside until honorably discharged in September of 1992. He earned many accolades and awards during his time in the service.
Michael married his soulmate, Clara Golding-Kent, on July 1, 2005, surrounded by family and loved ones in the backyard of his family’s home. Michael and Clara met during their shared time working at Madison Correctional institution. Both enjoyed spending time with their blended family of 8 and beloved pets, which has grown over the years with many grandkids and even more pets.
Michael worked his way through the ranks in corrections, starting as a Correctional Officer at Lebanon Correctional Institution in 1993 and diligently working his way to Captain at Pickaway Correctional Institution until medically retiring in 2020. Over the 27 years of his career, Michael received special recognition and awards for his time in corrections.
Michael was an avid reader, especially loving his westerns and fantasy novels. Michael appreciated the quiet life and would often take himself to the movies on his own or go for drives. Michael also loved collecting eagle statues and displaying them in the home. He was often surrounded by his children and grandchildren, always having a revolving door for company. When not being with his rather large and rambunctious family, it was nice for him to find solace in his hobbies.
Remaining to cherish Michael’s memory are his wife, Clara Golding-Kent; his sister Donna Kent (Scott Ratliff); his children Keith C. Park (Stacy Park), Mark Richard Kent (Elsie Tan, Patrick Charles Kent (Taylin Nichole Hunter), Ashley Annemarie Renken (Taylor Lawrence Renken), Donelle Renee Fuller, Samantha Faye Ames and Macie Elouise Hobbs; his grandchildren Syrenity Leigh Aguirre, Samuel Robert Park, Nojua Ignacio Aguirre, Tala Gales Ames, Sydney Annemarie Park, Canyon Ridge Park, Eleanora Gene Renken and Sylas Gene Park. Michael was excitedly looking forward to his 9th grandbaby due February 2025 (Patrick and Taylin).
Michael is preceded in death by his parents, Richard (Dick) Charles Kent on March 27, 2003, and Helga Elisabeth Kent on November 17, 2023, as well as his older brother Norbert Kent in 2018.
Funeral services will be held at 11:00 AM Saturday, October 5, 2024, in the EBERLE-FISHER FUNERAL HOME AND CREMATORY, 103 N. Main Street, London with Deacon Dan Hann officiating. Interment will follow in Deercreek Township Cemetery. Friends may call at the funeral home from 9 AM until time of services.
To remember Michael, the family suggests memorials to the Madison County Humane Society, 2020 St. Rt. 142 West Jefferson, Ohio 43162.
Online condolences for the family may be sent to www.eberlefisherfuneralhome.com
“I have found the one whom my soul loves.”
Solomon 3:4