It is with heavy hearts and deep sorrow that we announce the unexpected passing of our beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother and friend, Linda Lee (Smith) Stinson, who went to be with the Lord on December 10, 2024, at the age of 78.
Born in Columbus, Ohio, Linda was a beautiful, intelligent, and strong woman whose warmth and generosity touched all who knew her. She embodied kindness, always ready to offer a helping hand and share her love with those in need. Her heart was as vast as her spirit, and she was extraordinary in every sense of the word.
Linda had a long and successful career at John Deere, and she was also the proud owner of "Hair Country" salon and "Forever Wedding Silks" cake business, where she built lasting relationships with loyal and cherished customers. After retiring from John Deere, Linda dedicated her time to volunteering with various cat rescue organizations in central Ohio. Her passion for caring for cats was a true reflection of her compassionate nature.
She is survived by her children, Leshell Duncan and Dustin (Jodi) Duncan. Linda’s devotion to her children was immeasurable, and she always put their needs above her own, teaching them the true meaning of selflessness and perseverance.
As a grandmother and great-grandmother, Linda was nothing short of amazing. She was immensely proud of her grandchildren: Megan Keith, Mallory Hannum, Eli Hannum, Tyler Lyle, and Luke Duncan. Her love for them knew no bounds, and she poured her heart into her role as a grandmother. She also adored her great-grandchildren: Wyatt and Colton Keith, Mckynlee and Emery Carpenter, and Nora Hannum. She was always there to offer a comforting word, share a laugh, or lend a hand, creating memories that will last a lifetime.
Linda was hardworking, intelligent, and deeply passionate about the causes she cared about. She approached every aspect of her life with dedication and a sense of purpose. Her love for animals was especially dear to her. Whether caring for her own pets or helping animals in need, she showed the same compassion and care she gave to her family.
Her sudden and unexpected passing has left a void in the hearts of her family, friends, and all who knew her. Linda’s life was marked by kindness, love, and a deep commitment to her family and to those around her. Though she may no longer be with us, her legacy will live on in the countless lives she touched. Her memory will remain forever in our hearts.
A memorial visitation will be held on Friday, December 20, 2024, from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. in the Eberle-Fisher Funeral Home (103 N Main St, London, Ohio 43140). A graveside service will then follow in Sunset Cemetery, Galloway. We invite all who knew and loved Linda to join us in honoring her remarkable life and the love she gave so freely to everyone.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Cat Welfare Association (741 Wetmore Road, Columbus, Ohio 43214), Cozy Cat Cottage (10344 Sawmill Road, Powell, Ohio 43065), Colony Cat (2740 Festival Lane, Dublin, Ohio 43017), Black & Orange Cat Foundation (P.O. Box 126, Plain City, Ohio 43064), or A Purrfect Start (P.O. Box 955, Grove City, Ohio 43123), all cat rescues in Columbus, Ohio, in her memory.
Rest in peace, Mom. We love you deeply, and you will forever be in our hearts.
Condolences for Linda’s family are encouraged to be shared online at www.eberlefisherfuneralhome.com.
Gilbert A. McCombs, Jr., 76, of South Charleston, died Sunday, December 29, 2024, in his residence, surrounded by his family.
Born October 6, 1948, in Clark County, he was a son of Immogene (Boggs) and Gilbert A. McCombs, Sr.
Gilbert had worked at Navistar for 30 years before retiring in 1998. He also retired from the Harmony Township Fire Department, was a member of UAW Local #402, Aerie #950, FOE and Madison Memorial Post #105, American Legion. But once retired his pride and joy were his grandchildren.
Left to cherish his memories are his daughter Mindy, son Scott (Diane); grandchildren Samantha and Creighton; great-grandchildren Camden, Colt and Briley; sisters Jackie (Tom) and Ruth (Mark), brother Barry (Cindy), aunts Patty and Joy numerous nieces, nephews and cousins and girlfriend Debbie.
He was preceded in death by his parents, wife Wanda and several aunts and uncles.
The family extends their gratitude to Via Quest Hospice, especially nurse Lori and Lexi, a special care giver who was a God send.
Graveside services will be held at 10 AM Friday, January 3, 2025, in Plattsburg Cemetery.
Memorials in Gilbert’s name may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association at www.act.alz.org.
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
Martha L. Kress, 86, of New Carlisle, Ohio, was called home to Heaven on December 26, 2024, at 12:50am. She slipped away peacefully, in her sleep, after a short illness.
She was born on July 29, 1938, the eighth of ten children, to Leroy and Cora (Burlile) Smith, in London, Ohio. She lived a very full and busy life. She enjoyed playing games, especially cards, putting puzzles together, travelling, and most of all, spending time with her family. Much to chagrin of her daughter and delight of her great-grandsons, she was an Ohio State Buckeye fan. She proudly wore her crown as yard sale queen, right to the end.
Martha is survived by three children: Curtis (Trish) Scott, Cloris (Harvey) Toops, and Clayton Scott; grandchildren: Jenny Wilson, Barry (Lynda) Scott, April (Mike) Lesniak, Kelly (Matt) McLaughlin; great-grandchildren: Martin, John, Payne, Juniper, Max, Courtney, Zach, Tucker, and Vance; sister Linda Shoemaker; and a large extended family. Family reunions will not be the same without her.
She cherished her family and the years she spent traveling with her husband Lowell. She was sad to miss out on Florida this winter, but grateful for the 29 winters she spent there.
Martha attended the Christian Heritage Church in Springfield, Ohio, and was a former and founding member of the Faith Assembly of God in London, Ohio. She was a woman of God and had a servant’s heart. She especially enjoyed watching projects come to fruition, often saying “I love it when a plan comes together.” She and her husband Lowell were very dedicated to Faith Assembly, and to the process of turning an old dinner theater into a place of worship. She sang in the choir while her beloved Lowell played the organ.
She was preceded in death by her parents; husband Lowell Kress; son Burtis Scott; siblings Francis, Mike (Alice), Louise, Betty (Joe), Bob (Rosie), Roger (Jackie), Jim (Oma), and Judy; son-in-law Alan Childers; brother-in-law Don Shoemaker.
The family will receive friends for visitation on Thursday, January 2, 2024, from 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM in the EBERLE-FISHER FUNERAL HOME AND CREMATORY, 103 North Main Street, London, Ohio 43140. A procession will then be taken to Deercreek Township Cemetery where graveside services will commence with Pastor Jerry Poff and Pastor Aaron Young officiating.
At Martha’s request, memorials in her name may be sent to benefit the Madison County Senior Center, 280 West High Street, London, Ohio 43140.
Condolences for Martha’s family are encouraged to be shared online at
www.eberlefisherfuneralhome.com
John Bill Carter, age 82, of London, went home to be with the Lord on Friday, December 13, 2024, in his residence.
Born September 28, 1942, in Cherokee, Kentucky, he was a son of Mart Carter and Paulina (Young) Carter. On November 29, 1963, he married the love of his life, Elsie (Evans) Carter, and they spent 58 magical years together until her passing in 2021.
John retired from Battelle as a Sergeant after dedicating 33 years of service. He was a long-time member of the Mechanicsburg Church of God of Prophecy, and enjoyed volunteering alongside his wife throughout several nursing homes around Madison County where they would sing to residents. Additionally, John enjoyed playing guitar and listening to bluegrass and southern gospel music. He was always happiest on the lake where he and his family made countless memories. An avid fisherman, John was sure to be out on the lake fishing at any and all opportunities to do so.
Left behind to continue his legacy include his daughter Tammy (Raymond G.) Jenkins; grand-children Gregory Dwayne (Jennifer) Jenkins, Nathan Jenkins, Cody (Rachel) Jenkins, Tyler (Eran) Jenkins, Candice (Luis) Rubi; great-grandchildren Kayleigh, Abigail, Audrey, and Carter Jenkins, Luna and Rafael Rubi, Natalie and Caleb Rose; brothers Phillip L. (Lucrece) Carter, Donald (Rena) Carter, and Leslie (Ruby) Carter; sisters Margaret (Charles) Bond, Cynthia (Herman) Holbrook, Ruby (Chuck) Arrington, Linda (Tim) Wilson, and Claudia (Paul) Walker.
In addition to his parents, John is reunited in heaven with his beloved wife Elsie Carter; son John Martin Carter; brothers Mart Carter, Jr., Jerry Carter, Arnold Carter; sisters Barbara Jo Carter, Lillie Easter Carter, and Mary Hughes.
A funeral service will be held at 1:00 PM on Tuesday, December 17, 2024, in the EBERLE-FISHER FUNERAL HOME AND CREMATORY, 103 North Main Street, London, Ohio 43140. Interment will follow in Somerford Township Cemetery. John’s family will receive friends for visitation on Tuesday from 11:00 AM until the time of services.
In lieu of flowers, memorials in John’s name may be made to Grace Hospice, 4435 Aicholtz Rd, Suite 400, Cincinnati, Ohio 45245.
Condolences for John’s family are encouraged to be shared online a
www.eberlefisherfuneralhome.com
Lisa Dawn (Weaver) Preston, 60, of London, died suddenly and unexpectedly on Saturday, December 28, 2024, at 9:40 PM, in Madison Health.
Born December 17, 1964, in Columbus, she was a daughter of Ernest “Ernie” Vance and Barbara (Weaver) Vance.
Following high school, Lisa went on to attend the former Bliss Business College in Columbus where she graduated with a perfect 4.0 GPA. It was at Bliss where she learned all about reporting, which quickly became one of her passions. Whether reporting the news or following up on crime investigations, Lisa’s intellect always blossomed new ideas or potential leads when it seemed there were none. A strong-willed woman, she also had a profound interest in politics and was sure to voice her opinion on any and all issues regardless of being asked. Her free time was filled with reading novels across all genres, laughing at her favorite comedians, and keeping up with her garden. Family always came first for Lisa. The priceless hours spent together and invaluable memories made together will always be remembered fondly as those who loved her continue her rich legacy.
Lisa’s compassion continues following her death as she was able to restore the gift of sight for others through being an eye and corneal donor.
Lisa is survived by her four adoring children: Shaun Honesty, Brandon (Jeanette) Honesty, David Kohno, and Barbara (John) Master; grandchildren: Austin, McKenzie, Aiden, Natalie, Hannah, Jeremiah, Preston, Maya, and Brayden; great-granddaughter Malayah; brothers Robert Watts and Greg Parker; nieces and nephews: Carissa, Robert, and Jazmine; several aunts, uncles, and cousins, including a very special uncle Bob Lewis; dear friends who were like family to Lisa, Chuck Haakma and Jay Thompson; fur babies Mischief and Mr. Cat, and grandpuppy Miloh.
In addition to her parents, Lisa is once again reunited with those who preceded her in death including her beloved husband, Bernard Preston; grandmother Gladys Wentzel; cousins Carla and Ryan Lewis.
Lisa’s family will receive friends for visitation on Monday, January 6, 2025, from 2:00 – 4:00 PM in the EBERLE-FISHER FUNERAL HOME AND CREMATORY, 103 North Main Street, London, Ohio 43140. A funeral service will begin at 4:00 PM at which the family asks you bring your most fond memories of Lisa to share.
Memorials in Lisa’s name are encouraged to be sent to the funeral home to aid with funeral expenses. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home during services, or may be submitted online through the “Donations” tab on the top of the obituary.
Condolences for Lisa’s family are encouraged to be expressed online at
www.eberlefisherfuneralhome.com
Obituaries
Leona Carole Harper, age 84
of West Jefferson, Ohio, went to
be with the Lord on Tuesday,
January 7, 2025. She was a West
Jefferson United Methodist
Church member where she
previously taught Sunday School.
Leona enjoyed spending time
with her family and friends. She was a gardener and loved to travel with her family to Mexico and Myrtle Beach. Leona was past president of the Jaycees and a member of the V.F.W. Post 7005 Auxiliary. She was a past Junior Vice, the oldest active member, and a life member of the V.F.W. Auxiliary. She sold Avon for 20 years as a District Manager, and a member (Manager) of the July 4th Streetfest Committee. Leona was known as Grandma to everyone who loved her.
The family will welcome friends on SUNDAY, January 12, 2025, from 1pm-4pm, at the RADER-McDONALD-TIDD FUNERAL HOME, 1355 W. Main Street, West Jefferson, OH, 43162. Funeral Service will be held on Monday, January 13, 2025, at 11:00 am, at the Funeral Home with Pastor Ruth Pribe officiating. Leona will be laid to rest at the Kirkwood Cemetery, London, Ohio.
Please visit
www.radermcdonaldtiddfuneralhome.com
to view the full obituary.
Williadean “Billie” Kingery,
100, died Sunday, December 22,
2024 at Altercare of Bucyrus
where she was also being cared
for by Pathways Hospice.
Daughter of the late Dalta M.
and Exie R. (Allen) Myer, Billie
was born in Carroll County,
Indiana on July 10, 1924. She grew up on the family farm, attended Delphi High School, and graduated from Burlington High School in 1942. Billie married Charles E. Kingery on February 13, 1943. Charles worked in seed sales and moved the family to Crawford County in 1956. They later moved to London, Ohio where Billie operated a restaurant and owned and operated a dry-cleaning business. Charles passed away on April 4, 1981. After retirement, Billie returned to Bucyrus which she considered home.
Billie will be remembered for her boundless energy, laughter, hard work, and strong will. Her rural upbringing instilled the determination she demo-nstrated her entire life. She took joy in caring for her flowers and pond, walked daily, and was an avid reader. She loved her Lord and Savior and worshipped at the Bucyrus Nazarene Church. Her home was always a welcoming place where sweets were served, holiday candies were lovingly made, and Fox News was on the television.
Left to cherish her memory are daughters, Barb (Dave) Stuckey, Bev Pfahler (Bill Vance), and Sue Schafer; daughter-in-law, Susy Kingery; grandchildren, Doug (Heather) Stuckey, Dan Stuckey, Glenn (Lydia) Stuckey, Kim (Art) Deiderich, Debbie Schafer, Brian (Tami) Schafer, Nikki (Josh) Carter, Heather (John) Lewis, Chris (Tasha) Kingery, Zach Kingery, Charlie (Cass) Henderson, and Alec Henderson; 17 great grandchildren; 3 great-great grandchildren; beloved nieces, Sandy Schafer and Marilyn (Mel) Lowery; along with many cherished friends and extended family.
In addition to her parents and husband, Billie was preceded in death by son, Mike Kingery; daughter, Terri (Gordon) Henderson; sons-in-law, Bill Pfahler and Steve Schafer; sister, Lorena Jackson; infant sister, Ruby Myer; and nephew, Joe Schafer.
Billie’s family is grateful for the care she received from Bucyrus Hospital, Altercare, and Pathways. They are gathering for a private graveside funeral in Brokens-word Cemetery with her dear pastor, Ray LaSalle officiating.
Billie’s life is best summed up by the poem Afterglow: I’d like the memory of me to be a happy one. I’d like to leave an afterglow of smiles when life is done. I’d like to leave an echo whispering softly down the ways, of happy times and laughing times and bright and sunny days. I’d like the tears of those who grieve, to dry before the sun; of happy memories that I leave when life is done.
Those who wish to make a donation in Billie’s memory are asked to make the gift payable to Bucyrus Nazarene Church or Friends of the Bucyrus Library and give through Wise Funeral Service, 129 W. Warren St., Bucyrus, Ohio 44820. Memories and photos can be shared on the guestbook of Billie’s tribute page at www.wisefuneral.com.
Debra Sue (Dixon) Hillman, 73, of London, died peacefully at home on Thursday, December 19, 2024, surrounded by her family, following a short, yet valiantly fought battle with leukemia.
Born November 17, 1951, in Columbus, she was the daughter of Jack Dixon and Louella (Rowe) Dixon.
A graduate of London High School, Deb was deeply devoted to helping those with mental illness and proudly dedicated 31 years as a case worker for the Central Ohio Psychiatric Hospital. The holidays were always a fan favorite in the Hillman household, particularly Halloween and Christmas were certainly two of Deb’s favorites. Despite having many hobbies, family always came first for Deb; therefore, cooking family dinners and taking trips to Lake Erie together were some of the best moments and greatest memories that will be forever cherished.
Deb is survived by her loving husband William Hillman; daughter Jamie Fike; grandchildren Hannah (Hayden) Vasey, Xavier Minor (Jaleigh Johnson), Alicia Minor (Kevin Martinez); great-grandson Xayden Minor; nieces Kathryn (Matt) Jessee and Caroline (Ben) Miller.
She was preceded in death by her parents; son Benjamin McLaren Hillman; brother Jack “JD” Dixon, Jr.
Private services are being held at the convenience of Deb’s family.
To honor Deb’s memory, memorials may be sent to the Madison County Humane Society, 2020 Plain City Georgesville Road NE, West Jefferson, Ohio 43162, or to the James Cancer Hospital and Solove Research Institute online at
https://giveto.osu.edu/makeagift/details/313545.
The EBERLE-FISHER FUNERAL HOME AND CREMATORY, 103 North Main Street, London, Ohio 43140, is honored to be caring for Deb’s family. Condolences for her family are encouraged to be shared online at www.eberlefisherfuneralhome.com.