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
James Earl Vertrees, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, will be deeply missed after his passing on January 12, 2025, at Madison Health Hospital in London. He entered this world on July 11, 1948, in Louisville, Kentucky, born to the late Earl and Sadie Vertrees.
James will be remembered not just for his impressive 35-year career at Ranco, where he excelled as a manager dedicated to ensuring that every job was performed with precision and care, but also for the warmth and kindness he extended to everyone around him. His passion for teaching was evident as he nurtured the next generation with his profound knowledge of plumbing, electrical work, and HVAC systems. To his family, he was more than just a tradesman; he was a great teacher, an unwavering support, and a constant source of inspiration.
His garage, an organized haven where every tool found its rightful place, was a testament to his industrious nature. James thrived on helping others and was never one to sit idle; he could always be found working on a project, whether it was around the house or lending a hand to friends in need. His love for family was evident in every aspect of his life, and he held those relationships near and dear to his heart.
James's legacy will live on through his cherished spouse of 29 years, Wilma (Salyer) Vertrees, and their loving family. He is survived by children Keith (Tony) Vertrees, Richard (Teresa) Buchanan, and Kemberly Dicken; grandchildren Joshua (Ashley) Dicken, Tyler (Ashley) Buchanan, Krystal Dicken, and Kylee (Billy) Daily; and great-grandchildren Quincy, Quaid, Quillen, Braxton, Cooper, Olivia, Peyton, Greyson, Dakota, Bristal, Braxton, Hayden, Lincoln and Charlee. He is preceded in death by his brother, Leo, his sister, Charlene, and his son-in-law, Tim Dicken.
The family will invite friends to celebrate James's remarkable life on Thursday, January 16, 2025, at Lynch Family Funeral Home located at 124 East High Street, London, Ohio 43140. Friends and family may call from 11:30 AM to 1:30 PM, with the funeral service commencing at 1:30 PM. Following the service, he will be laid to rest at Oak Hill Cemetery, 104 Lafayette Street, London, Ohio 43140.
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
Elizabeth Sue Nelson, 65, of London, died Tuesday, January 7, 2025, in Licking Memorial Hospital, Newark.
Born October 12, 1959, in Piqua, Ohio, Sue was a daughter of Patricia (Ellis) and William Greene.
Sue worked and retired from Madison County Hospital after many years of service.
She enjoyed doing puzzles and watching The Ohio State University Buckeyes play football while drinking her Natty Lights. But above all, Sue enjoyed spending time with her family, which she was able to do regularly.
Those left to cherish her memories are her daughters Amy Lynn (Jose) Ulloa and Trisha Lee Nelson; grandchildren Tristin, Kaleb, Caiden, Destiny, Cyara, Brandon, Jayden and Junior; several great-grandchildren; her mother Patricia Jenkins; siblings Ronald (Linda) Wood, William (Gina) Green, Michael Banting, Deborah Wood, Dawn LeMaster, Michelle Hill and Marianne Smith; aunt Joyce Holman; numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.
She was preceded in death by her stepfather Richard Jenkins.
A Celebration of Sue’s life is being planned for the near future.
Memorials in Sue’s name may be made to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital at www.stjude.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 are encouraged to be shared at
www.eberlefisherfuneralhome.com.
Betty Lois Rothen, 77, of London, died Friday, January 10, 2025, in Springfield Regional Medical Center. Born January 4, 1948, in Harrisburg, Ohio, she was an adored daughter of John Bowser and Irene (Brown) Bowser.
It was in high school that Betty met the love of her life, Thomas Leon Rothen. The two of them became inseparable from that time, marrying at 18 years old and spending the next 57 blissful years by one each other’s side. Family always came first for both Betty and Tom. They made sure to see their children and grandchildren as much as possible no matter what else life had in store for them. The love they radiated to their family will always be cherished by all as their family continues on this tradition.
Betty is survived by four children: Toby (Tina) Rothen of Texas, David Rothen of Illinois, Rebekah (Richard) Reagan of Florida, and April Rothen of Ohio; grandchildren Misty (David), Andrew, Kylie (Davidjordan), Stephen, David, and James; as well as numerous other extended family members.
Betty was preceded in death by her parents and her beloved husband Tom.
Cremation will take place in accordance with Betty’s wishes. Public services will not be observed.
In lieu of flowers, memorials in Betty’s name may be sent to benefit the American Diabetes Association online at www.diabetes.org/donate.
Betty’s family is being served by the EBERLE-FISHER FUNERAL HOME AND CREMATORY, 103 North Main Street, London, Ohio 43140.
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.
Charlotte Jean Miller, 69, of West Jefferson, died Friday, January 10, 2025, in Arbors of West Jefferson. Born December 28, 1955, in Toledo, Ohio, she was a daughter of Charles J. Miller, Sr. and Mildred Hoy.
A graduate of Rosecrans High School, Charlotte went on to earn an associate’s degree from the Everest Technical College in Colorado where she studied stenography. A strong woman of God, Charlotte remained a faithful servant to the Lord, and was sure to practice his teachings each and every day through studying scriptures and treating others with the grace and kindness every person deserves. She truly would be the person who would give the shirt off her back or her last dime to anyone in need. Charlotte enjoyed spending time at home where she could always be found crocheting or indulging in her favorite game, Candy Crush; but also enjoyed taking trips to Maumee Bay where she could admire the beauty of the Toledo Harbor Lighthouse. She lived with no regrets, and loved others unapologetically, particularly her family who always remained close to her heart. The love for her kids and grandkids knew no bounds. A pure soul with an inspiring heart of gold was lost with Charlotte’s passing but will be forever remembered by all those who had the pleasure of knowing her.
Left to continue her legacy of love include her son John (Barbara) Master; grandchildren: Taylor Master, Jordan Cain, Maya Master (Kenneth Parkham), Brayden Master, Aiden Hafer, Natalie Hafer, Jeremiah Hafer, Preston Master, Morgan (Michael) Rodriguez-Barnhill, Olivia Jeffers, Kenneth Dunaway; great-grandchildren: Caroline, Malayah, Azaiah, Addilynn, plus one on the way; brothers Charles J. Miller, Jr. and Kenny Armer; numerous cousins including special cousin Jimmy Miller.
Charlotte is reunited in heaven with her parents; son Freddy Jeffers; sisters Angela Miller and Lisa Preston; brothers Robert J. Miller and Mike Armer; grandparents Robert J. Miller and Nola Miller.
Private services are being held at the convenience of Charlotte’s family with interment in Somerford Township Cemetery.
Memorials in Charlotte’s name are encouraged to be sent to the funeral home to aid with funeral expenses. Donations may be submitted online through the “Donations” tab on the top of the obituary, or can be made by contacting the funeral home directly.
The EBERLE-FISHER FUNERAL HOME AND CREMATORY, 103 North Main Street, London, Ohio 43140, is honored to be caring for Charlotte and her family during this difficult time. Condolences for her family are encouraged to be shared online at www.eberlefisherfuneralhome.com.