Class Notes

Bruce A. Linton passed away July 28th, 2021. Bruce was born in Ottawa, Illinois on December 3, 1923 to Harold and Ina Linton, and grew up in nearby Marseilles with younger brother, Don. They, and his wife, "Chris", preceded him in death. He is survived by children Marc (Donna) and Wendy (Jeff), grandchildren Andrew, Dean, Jessica and John, and great granddaughters Madelyn and Ella. Bruce attended Muskingum College (Ohio) where he met his future bride, Marion ("Chris") Christman, but had his education interrupted by service in the Army in WWII. He faced combat in Europe, was injured (Purple Heart) and finished his "points" in an Army "swing band". Returning from war, he married Chris on February 14th, 1946 (at her death, they were one month shy of a 75th anniversary), and finished his undergraduate degree. After receiving his MA and PhD from Northwestern University, he established the Radio, TV, Film department at the University of Nebraska Omaha, then five years later did the same at KU in 1955, serving as department chair for 29 of his 33 years there. His research interest was self-regulation in broadcasting, and his teaching responsibilities were mostly in TV and film production to graduate students, with many of whom he retained life-long friendships. He served the Broadcast Education Association as president and international representative, and was in advisory roles at KU and elsewhere. He received accolades at KU, Kansas, and national levels. Bruce loved action: gardening, home improvements, making home movies, playing tennis, golf, and handball, entertainment from family, music, theater, and reading. The Linton's joined Plymouth Congregational Church in 1956, where Bruce sang in the choir for six decades, and from which the family acquired many life-long friendships. Family highlights included canoe and camping trips. In retirement, Bruce and Chris spent parts of many summers in Estes Park and winters in South Padre Island, jazz cruises, travel within the US and to numerous countries, particularly the UK. They were active with the KU Retirees Endacott Society and had a full social and family calendar. Bruce will be generally missed as a happy, social, "really nice guy", and intimately missed for his unconditional love, tolerance, and family devotion, and as a role model of integrity, hard work, and a life fully lived.

R. Eugene "Gene" Wease, age 84 of Crown Point (St. John), passed into eternal life on Saturday, July 31, 2021.He is survived by his loving wife, Jeanne; son, Dr. Gary Wease, FACS (Tangie), cherished grandchildren, Nicholas and Anastasia; niece, Lori Ann Zinner; nephew, Sherman Jarrett. Preceded in death by his parents, Ronzel and Dorothy Wease; siblings, Lane and Ann. He was a graduate of Muskingum College and held a Master's Degree from Indiana University . He was a dedicated teacher and coach of the Lake Central Schools for 30 years and a community volunteer all of his life. He was a member of First United Methodist Church, Crown Point, a 62 year member of Lake Lodge #157 Free and Accepted Masons, 50 year member of Orak Shrine, and Consistory of South Bend, Worth Patron on Lake Chapter Order of Eastern Start, Past President of the Lake County Retired Teachers, Past President of the State of Indiana Retired Teachers, Board Member of the Campagna Academy, Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) for Lake County Juvenile Court, and a supporter and volunteer for Meals on Wheels from the day he retired. Following his retirement, he approached each day looking for problems to help solve and ways to serve those in need. For 24 years, he served his Masonic Brothers as secretary of Lake Lodge, being named Indiana Lodge Secretary of the year in 2006. As President of the Indiana Retired Teachers Association 2007-2009, he toured Indiana lobbying for education and all educators. From 2008-2020 he served the Lake County Juvenile Court by being that special advocate for children entering the system when their world was turned upside down by the adults they depended on. He considered his volunteer work as a CASA to be his most important mission in retirement. He was chosen as the Most Outstanding Indiana CASA in 2017 and in August 2018, he was recognized by Lake County Juvenile Judge Stefaniac for his dedicated service to the CASA program of Lake County. For many years he delivered Meals on Wheels in Lake County. AARP of Indiana presented him with the prestigious Andress Award as the 2009 state volunteer of the year. In 2009, Mitch Daniels honored him with the Distinguished Hoosier Award. United Way presented him their 2017 Spirit Award for displaying extraordinary service above self and for serving as an inspiration to others. In summary it can be said, that Gene was a dedicated servant who lived his faith every day and always found time to put the needs of others above his own. He enjoyed spending time with his son and family and rejoiced when he could get that free, second medical opinion from his son Gary. Those close to him knew, that even though he moved to Indiana 64 years ago, he remained forever a true, blue, Buckeye Fan.

Amy Carol Smith died peacefully at her home in North Wales, Pennsylvania, on July 26, 2021, after a two-year battle with cancer, a diagnosis she handled with pragmatism and grace. Amy was born on July 13, 1951, the daughter of Wendell and Ruby Smith, and grew up in Minerva, Ohio. She graduated from Minerva High School in 1969 and Muskingum College in 1973. After college she joined the United Methodist US-2 mission program for young adults, serving two years in Hazelton, Pennsylvania. She then attended United Theological Seminary in Dayton, Ohio, and was ordained in 1976, a proud member of the first wave of women clergy in the United Methodist Church. She served many churches in the Eastern Pennsylvania Conference during her career, most recently Lehman Memorial United Methodist Church in Hatboro, and the First United Methodist Church of Phoenixville. She remained active in the conference even after her retirement in 2012. Amy was known for her long and steadfast friendships, her love of ice cream and baseball, and her inherent frugality. She will be deeply missed by her husband of 24 years, Timothy D. Caum, his three children and four grandchildren, who Amy loved as her own; her three siblings, Melissa (Dan) Clayton, Andrew (Ellen) Smith, and Sarah (Bill) Lange; her niece and three nephews. Amy's life was enriched by her church community, neighbors, and friends she cherished. The family wishes to thank them for their love and support during her illness.

Linda Klein of Matthews NC passed away Tuesday, July 27 at the Harris Hospice Unit in Charlotte, after a valiant, two-year battle with ovarian cancer. Linda was born in Ravenna OH to Paul and Merium Gibson and grew up on the family dairy farm in Edinburg OH. The oldest of four, as a child, Linda was active with her ponies, sewing, 4-H club and in high school she was a majorette for four years and on the Honor Roll. She was always very musically inclined, having studied piano from an early age and playing the clarinet, bassoon, bells, and recorder, as well. Linda attended Muskingum College in New Concord OH and graduated with her Bachelor of Arts degree from Kent State University in 1970. She played bassoon in the Akron University Symphony Orchestra and toured with them, performing in several different countries in Europe. Her teaching career started at North Royalton Elementary School in OH and she retired from Waxhaw Elementary School in 2014. She earned the National Teachers Certification while teaching in Waxhaw. Linda moved from Akron OH to Charlotte in 2001, two years after her husband, Bruce, who had moved to be closer to his parents. Linda was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother (called Oma, because she did not want to be "grandma"), sister, and aunt. As an adult she loved singing in the choir at MSLC, playing the recorder and bassoon on special occasions. Her passion for sewing continued from childhood, having made many Halloween costumes for her boys. Later in life, her sewing passion turned to quilting, which family and friends have received and cherished over the years. Survivors include her husband of 50 1/2 years, Bruce Klein; sons, Joshua (Sasha) of Cleveland OH and Benjamin (Melissa) of Lakewood OH; brother Steve (Carol) of Albemarle NC and sister, Carol (Bill) Bauman of Charleston SC. Linda leaves four grandchildren; Kazimir, Delia, Desmond and Miles; mother-in-law, Penny Klein of Douglasville GA, brother-in-law's, Chuck (Sarah) Klein of Concord NC; Dane (Becky) Klein of Rock Hill SC, and sister-in-law, Valerie (Jimmy) Gordon of Douglasville GA, many nieces, nephews and wonderful friends. Linda is preceded in death by her parents, Paul and Merium Gibson: Father-in-law, Fritz Klein, brother, Doug Gibson and best friend Martha McConnell Hatcher. The family wishes to thank Dr. Kellie Schneider, oncologist, the staff at Novant Presbyterian Medical Center and the Harris Hospice Unit for being compassionate caregivers to Linda for the past two years and special family friends for their love and support.

Regis Sylvester McCurry passed away while doing his favorite chore, yard work, on August 1, 2021 at age 96. He was born and raised in Clairton, Pennsylvania, one of seven children. In 1943 he joined the Navy and served in both the Atlantic on a destroyer escort and in the Pacific on an LCI-landing craft, returning home in 1945. Using the GI Bill, he graduated from Muskingum College in Ohio and soon found employment as an insurance adjuster with Ohio Casualty Insurance Company. In 1952, Regis married the love of his life Jean Margaret Rump and they had two children, Valerie and Kevin. In 1963 the family moved to Sarasota, Florida where he continued his work as an insurance adjuster. Jean died in 1982 after thirty years of marriage and raising their two children. After his retirement from Ohio Casualty Insurance, he worked part-time for the City of Sarasota Recreation Department where he started a program for a Senior Softball League and Coed Softball League in 1985. It grew and continues to thrive today. In 1987, he met Judy Okeson, the second love of his life, and they married in May of 1988. Through their travels, they found and fell in love with Kalispell, Montana, then a small town, thirty miles from Glacier National Park. They spent summers there for the next 23 years, buying a summer home there in 1995. He also started a Senior Softball League and Coed Softball League there as well. Even in his mid-80s, on his 70s-and-up team, he was the team's designated runner. In 1989 he was hand picked to play for the Goff Greyhounds in the Senior Softball World Series where they won the title. He was very proud of his championship ring. He also loved tennis and played doubles into his 90s. Regis and Judy sold the Kalispell house in 2014 but made additional visits to Montana afterward. Judy sadly and unexpectedly passed away in May of this year. They both loved to go and do and see. Regis was always a gregarious and sports-loving fellow whose mottos were "life is good" and "it is what it is". He loved the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Florida Gators. Regis is survived by his daughter Valerie Rachal and husband John; son Kevin McCurry and wife Mary; granddaughter Ashley DeCoux; sister Verla Piper; stepchildren Stan Okeson and wife Diana; Shar DeJoy; Brad Okeson and wife Sherrie; Laura Spencer; and three step grandchildren. He was predeceased by his father and mother Sylvester and Sarah McCurry; sisters Romaine and Laverne; brothers Dwaine, William, and Bernard, and his grandson Ethan DeCoux.

Wilma Elizabeth Kreager, 100, of Zanesville passed away Friday August 13th at the Morrison House. Wilma Elizabeth George was born September 23, 1920 at the home of her parents, Jay C. and Maggie Perine George in Hopewell Township, Ohio. She was the eldest of three children (Glenn 1922, Richard 1927). She began her education in the one room George Ridge School house, later graduating in 1938 from the newly constructed Hopewell Rural School. In June 1940, at the age of 19, Wilma obtained her teaching certificate from Muskingum College, after which she launched her teaching career at her Alma Mater. Following that initial position she moved to Circleville, where she acted as a Girl Scout troop leader and enrolled at The Ohio State University, from which she obtained her B.A. in Education. She returned to the Zanesville area in 1947 and taught at Duncan Falls Elementary School. On April 15, 1950 she married George Henry Kreager. From 1950 to 1964 she was a homemaker and mother to their three children, Carl Keith (1953), Kelvin George (1956) and Susan Kay (1959). Previously a member of the Covenanter (Presbyterian) Church, after marriage she joined Finley United Methodist Church. Wilma was an active member of Ladies Aide and Women's Society of Christian Service (WSCS). In the fall of 1964 Wilma returned to teaching at Hopewell School, remaining until her retirement in 1980. She and George enjoyed volunteering weekly at the school for the next several years Following George's death in 2003, Wilma continued to live independently in her home of 63 years until the age of 92. Wilma moved into an assisted living environment in 2013, where she enjoyed a renewed social life. During her years in her new home, Wilma continued to be quite active. She particularly enjoyed attending Muskingum County Fair at the age of 98. Wilma was extremely dedicated to and proud of her family. When asked later on in life about her most rewarding accomplishment, she responded that it was knowing her children and grandchildren had grown up to be productive citizens. Wilma was preceded in death by her parents, husband and brothers. She is survived by her three children and their spouses, six grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.

Sharon Kaser Campbell 4/28/1944 7/18/2021 Loving Daughter, Wife, Mother, Grandmother and Great Grandmother. Passed away with her family by her side, on July 18, 2021, in Chadron Community Health Center,Chadron, Nebraska. Sharon is survived by husband of 55 years, Roger Campbell of Crawford Ne. Son, Andy Campbell (Gina) of Crawford Ne. Daughter, Amy Campbell Hathaway (Rich) of Casper Wy. Grandsons, Tyler Hathaway (Randi) of Casper Wy, and Trent Walker of Grand Junction Co. Granddaughters, Jessie Hathaway (Alex) of Casper Wy, and Caitlin Duffy of Broomfield Co. Great granddaughter, Everleigh and another great granddaughter on the way of Casper Wy. Brothers, Steven Kaser (Joy) of Delaware Oh, Jim Kaser (Jackie) New Concord Oh, and many nieces and nephews. Sharon was proceeded in death by her father, Harold W. Kaser, mother, Winogene Foster Kaser, and sister, Kathleen Ridenour. Sharon was a graduate of Coshocton High School, class of 1962. Muskingum University, class of 1966 and Westminster College where she obtained her master's degree. Sharon retired from HER Realtors in Pickerington Ohio after 24 years as a realtor there and Northside Realty in Georgia. Sharon also became a published author in 2016 of the book, A Pastor's Message. Sharon was a tireless contributor to her church community and many others who valued her caring compassion for people. Sharon loved her family, she always put her family first along with her beloved pets. She always had a special place in her heart for her dog, Bandit, who she could play ball with all day long. She spent hours with her horse, Jess, who she loved to groom and give mints to. Compassion and love was spread to everyone that came around Sharon, she truly had a contagious smile. Sharon is missed by so many people because of her constant smile and love. Her memories will always be passed along to her family and friends. Love you Sharon "until the sea sees".

Theresa MacKinnon February 23, 1941 August 5, 2021 Cambria, California Theresa (Coffman) MacKinnon, loving wife and mother of two children died peacefully on August 5, 2021, at the age of 80. Theresa was preceded in death by her father, James, her mother, Ruth, and her brother James. She is survived by her husband Allan, her two children Laura and Allan Jr., her sister Nancy, and several nieces and nephews. Theresa was born in East Liverpool, Ohio to James and Ruth (Hogue) Coffman. She studied for her M.S. in Psychology at Ohio State University in 1963 and received her B.A. in Mathematics & Psychology from Muskingum College in Ohio in 1962. Upon finishing her Master's at Ohio State University, Theresa moved to California to teach at Los Angeles High School, where she was a Mathematics Instructor. In 1967, she married Allan MacKinnon in Los Angeles, where they had two children, Laura and Allan. In 1975, the family moved back East, where Theresa continued to teach advanced high school mathematics. In 1981, Theresa and her husband founded Modular Automation Corp., a robotics firm based in Greene, New York. She served as Executive Vice President of Operations until the company was acquired in 1999. In 2000, Theresa and her husband returned to California, retiring in Cambria where she was an active member of the community. She served as a deacon and thrift store volunteer at the Cambria Community Presbyterian Church, a member of the Cambria Garden Club, where she served on the Scholarship Committee. She was also a member of Cambria's Dance Club, Newcomers Club, and Wine Club. Theresa attended the Estero Bay United Methodist Church in Morro Bay, California until her passing. Theresa had a passion for interior design, landscaping, and gardening. She was also an avid traveler, visiting South America, Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, Europe, and China. Theresa was a loyal friend, fearless in seeking justice for those who didn't have a voice. A special thanks to Southbay Maxicare in Los Osos for the loving care of Theresa. A memorial will be held at a future date. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Cambria Anonymous Neighbors.

Douglas Smart, husband of Emily Smart and loving father of Lukas and Lindsay Smart, died on July 17th 2021. He was born in Phoenix City Alabama in 1946 and raised in Ohio by his grandmother along with his 13 siblings. A fan of good eating, he would fondly recall his grandmother’s vanilla wafers banana cream pudding and feign ignorance when accused of eating grits with grape jelly. 

He loved football, a sport that took him to Muskingum college where he was inducted into the hall of fame. After Muskingum he went on to play professional football in Canada for the Saskatchewan Roughriders. When his athletic career ended, he went on to spend time in the US Airforce (honorary discharge) and then into insurance; which took him to Detroit where he met his wife, then Emily Updegraff from Arizona. The married on July 6th in 1970 and remained lovingly together for over 50 years. A lover of art and economics and helping kids, Doug went on to get his teaching credentials which would be his life long career. 

He and his wife moved to Coronado California where they had, son, Lukas and, daughter, Lindsay who were very fortunate to have as devoted and caring parents. He was so very very proud of our children and their children (Maxwell, Amelie, Jakob, and Mila). Emily (who worked in healthcare) describes Douglas as “the most engaged father a child and teenager could have!”  He chauffeured daughter Lindsay from San Diego to Orange County for competitive soccer practices (after school twice a week) for years and volunteered to donate hundreds of hours to the local little league and the high school football program when son Luke played baseball and varsity football. Once the kids flew the nest and he had retired in 2006 he traveled frequently with wife Emily when she traveled to work in fun places like Hawaii, wine country- California, Camano Island in upstate Washington, and Nevada (he loved the quarter slot games in Vegas). 

Doug was an accomplished computer geek!  He enjoyed photography and road biking.  There was no soccer match anywhere in the world that he did not know about.  He loved music of all kinds, anything to do with Star Wars, science fiction reading (no matter how terrible), old westerns, and grilling.  He could really dance!!  The grandkids can attest to the fact that he could break out in a dance anywhere—even elevators! No doubt at all: Doug left giant footprints in the sands of life. He taught his kids the value of integrity, hard work, and not taking yourself all that seriously. He knew that sometimes it’s cheaper to “buy once, cry once”, how to work a deal, and had an uncanny ability to find high quality and rare whiskeys at store price. He was, and is still, loved by his whole family and will be missed tremendously.

William (Babe) Accorsi passed away Sunday, July 11, 2021, in Stanford, N.Y. Born June 22, 1931, in Springdale, he was born to immigrants, the late Salvatore and Elizabeth Accorsi. He graduated from Springdale High School, where he was noted for his football skills. He is survived by a brother, Lewis Accorsi, of Cheswick; and also by many nieces and nephews. He had been ill for several months and he finally succumbed to liver cancer. He was a graduate of Muskingum College in Ohio where in 2020 he was named an honorary associate professor. Early on, he taught for awhile to disadvantage children. He also was a teacher in Boystown, Neb. He had developed an interest in art while in college. He then went to New York City, N.Y., to begin his art career. With his unique imagination and style, he published a number of children's books and puzzles. His main medium was wood and wire but others were used to meet his unique ideas. His art ranged from small hand-sized figures to large life-size sculptures. For many years, he had his studio in New York City. He had many exhibits of his work throughout the U.S. He was very well-known in the artist community. We want to give a special thanks to his friends, John Drechsler and Barbara Isenberg and Paula Silver who helped William during his last few months of life.

HARRIGAN, Charles "Chuck" Edgar, was born in Zanesville, Ohio on July 3, 1944, to Verna Hauserman and Tom Harrigan. His older brothers were Bryce and Tom and his childhood nickname was "Butch." Chuck attended Zanesville High School, where he played football and was president of the Student Council. He attended Muskingum University 1962 to 1966, where he double majored in Math and Economics and was a football defensive end. There he met the love of his life, Marcia Jean Philion and married in 1968. He taught math in Elyria, Ohio and coached golf, football and basketball. At The Maxwell School at Syracuse University, Chuck earned his master's degree of Public Administration. They moved to Richmond, where he was a dedicated public servant for over 30 years in the Departments of Health; Labor and Industry; and Environmental Quality. Chuck was a disciplined hardworker, whose focus in life was providing his family with everything he was able to do. With Marcia they built a beautiful home where their children, extended family and friends always found support, celebrations and endless memories. Chuck was a talented woodworker, an exercise enthusiast and had an incredible sense of humor. He loved gospel and bluegrass, ice cream and generosity. His had a life well-lived and he was a true role model to all who knew him. Chuck is now with his brothers, his parents and Dick and Doug; no doubt telling jokes and playing pranks. He is survived by Marcia; his children, Drew (Katie) and Brenna (Trip); and his grandchildren, Annalee Mae and Charles L. Harrigan. He will be remembered as a great man. Services will be held at The Brandermill Church on August 7 at 2 p.m.

Darrel Fred Herdman Obituary

Barbara J. Steiner, 88, of Ligonier, passed away Friday, May 7, 2021 in Excela Health Latrobe Hospital after a brief illness. She was born August 4, 1932 in Latrobe, the daughter of the late Harry G. and Sarah H. (Wheaton) Johnstin Barbara was a member of the Latrobe United Methodist Church, the Latrobe Country Club, Women's Club of Latrobe, Latrobe Art Center, and was an Emeritus Trustee at Muskingum University. Her favorite pastimes included tennis, golf, skiing, gardening, travelling, art, reading, music, and theater. She is survived by her husband of 64 years, Louis A. Steiner; three children: Sarah S. "Sally" Shirey, Ann S. Holmes (Henry), and Louis T. "Ted" Steiner (Pam); grandchildren: Joe Steiner, Mike Steiner (Liz), Kelsey Steiner, Sarah Holmes, and Elizabeth Holmes; a great grandson Callen Steiner, a great granddaughter Emersyn Steiner; her brother Harry G. Johnstin, Jr.; and a number of nieces and nephews.

Mr. Marvin Spohn, 80 of Calabash, NC passed on Wednesday, May 6, 2020 at River Park Senior Living in Little River, SC.

Cecilie Watkins passed away Friday, April 23, 2021 at the age of 66. The daughter of the late William Krigbaum Watkins and Fayetta Lilley Watkins. Survivors include her dear husband of 30 years, William Partlow; brother, Bill (Ruth) Watkins; niece, Katy Watkins; nephew, David (Hannah) Watkins; and aunt, Gail Zwick and numerous cousins. Cecilie was born in Wheeling, WV and raised on a dairy farm in Belmont County, Ohio. After graduating from Muskingum College she moved to Cincinnati for a long career in social work at Jobs and Family Services. Cecilie always sought the outdoors whether hiking, bird-watching, or gardening. Her home was always filled with a couple of cats and much music.

Stanley Dean Reed, 90, passed away peacefully Saturday evening, May 8, 2021 at Genesis Morrison House in Zanesville, Ohio surrounded by his family.

Born July 9, 1930 in Adamsville, Ohio, he was the son of the late Cassell and Evelyn (Bowden) Reed and was a 1948 graduate of Adamsville High School.  Dean retired with 39 years of service from Line Material later known as McGraw Edison.   In 2005, at the age of 75, Dean graduated from Muskingum College with a Bachelor’s Degree in Business/ Accounting.  After he graduated college, he went on to work for an accounting firm in Zanesville and to substitute in many local school districts.  Dean was an active member at New Hope Lutheran Church, where he served on the church council and helped with the New Hope Lutheran Cemetery Committee.  Dean was a member and Past Master of Hubbard Lodge # 220, F. & A. M. of Adamsville for over 68 years.  He served as District Deputy Grand Master of the 18th Masonic District and was appointed Grand Tyler of the Grand Lodge of Ohio in 1985.  Dean was also a member of the Ancient Accepted Scottish Rite, Valley of Cambridge.  He was a Salem Township Trustee for 20 years, a 4-H advisor, a baseball coach, a Sunday school teacher and a farmer.  Dean was a family man.  He enjoyed taking his family on vacation and was known for never missing a sporting event.

Surviving are his five children, Steve (Jane) Reed, Sue (Charles) Straker, Bill (Sue) Reed, Bob Reed and Sharon (George) Shegog; eleven grandchildren, Mike (Audria) Reed, Matt (Alli) Reed, Derek Reed, Jeannine (Cole) Little, Terra Sue (Jason) Baughman, Justin (Ellen) Reed, David (Leslie) Reed, Eric (Lauren) Reed, Emily (Evan) Iden, Levi Shegog and Eli (Kim) Shegog; fourteen great grandchildren, Mista, Parker, Julia, Emmy, Easton, Cameron, Reagan, Kendall, Leanne, Dane, Cody, Cheyenne, Avery, Samuel and one on the way; many cousins, nieces and nephews; a sister-in-law, Carol Lee Littick Rollins and special friend, Martha Shepler.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Martha Rose (Littick) Reed, who died May 1, 2005; a daughter-in-law, Vicki Reed; two sisters, father in-law and mother in-law, Ralph & Lura Littick and his longtime friend, The Rev. Richard Wilson.

Peggy Best 1928-2021. Marguerite Ruth Owens Best, "Peggy," and "Grammy," age 93, passed away peacefully April 16, 2021. She was born in Pittsburgh, PA. She earned a Bachelor of Science in Education degree from Muskingum College in New Concord, OH, where she met her husband of 70 years, William Ramsey, "Bill," Best, who preceded her in death in December 2020. She is survived by her children, Betsy Britain and Bill Best (Tracy); her grandchildren Mandy Black, Stephanie Wynn (Jacob), Jenny Britain (Jenn), Ryan Best (Katy), and Sandy McHenry (Brian); and her 11 great-grandchildren. Peggy was adored by all who knew her. Her kind heart radiated from her at all times. She was so full of love and grace for those around her, and these traits characterized her life. She and Bill moved many times during Bill's 30-year career with Goodyear, from Akron, OH, to Kansas City, MO, to Los Angeles, CA, and finally to Scottsboro, AL. Bill commented often how much he appreciated Peggy's unwavering and uncomplaining support for him and their family. She was a stay-at-home mom for many years, always opening their home to friends and family with a plate of freshly-baked cookies. She enjoyed volunteering in local hospitals and her children's schools as they grew up, and was an accomplished and talented crewel embroiderer. While living in Los Angeles, she taught preschool. She was naturally dedicated to letter-writing, spending time each morning for most of her life, writing and mailing letters to friends, family, and acquaintances. After Bill retired from Goodyear, they managed condominiums in Marco Island and Naples, FL, before moving to Alabaster, AL in 1995All who were lucky enough to be loved by Peggy, to receive letters written in her recognizable left-handed cursive, to have been fed her cookies or basked in her selfless attention will tell you what a beautiful, generous woman she was. 

Nancy Louise Morris of Interlochen, MI, died Tuesday, April 27, 2021, unexpectedly, at her home. Nancy was born on September 11,1928 in Findlay, OH, the daughter of E.W. and Olive McCall. In 1950 she graduated from Muskingum University, with a major in Home Economics, and wedded the man she met 2 years earlier in the college bookstore who, on that occasion, said "you are just the kind of girl I am looking to marry" . her first marriage proposal. She replied "it's a little sudden, I'm going to need some time .Paul looked at his watch and said "How much?" They cherished their 70+ years together, and raised six children for whom she was a loving mother, teacher and moral center. Nancy was awarded Homemaker of the Year in 1964, and was honored with a trip to Chicago, transported via her first plane trip. She excelled in all things homemaking, including cooking, baking and sewing. Family, community, church dinners and Paul's business colleagues and clients all benefited from Nancy's accomplished hostessing skills, highlighted by her cooking and baking expertise. She was active and served in officer positions in the various churches in which Paul and Nancy were Members, she sang in several church choirs and was a founding member of the PEO Chapter EV. She taught Home Economics in her early married years and later served as a teacher for homebound students within the Columbus School District. Nancy was an avid reader. She supported Friends of Interlochen Library in their efforts that lead, in 2019, to the library's new facility. She and Paul also widely traveled - family camping trips from coast to coast; a family visit in Italy, tour guides for Muskingum alumni trip to Scandinavia and Russia, a Scotland rotary trip, as well as retirement venues from Gulf Shores to Copper Harbor. Nancy is remembered for her magical smile, positive outlook, friend to all and never-ending love of family. Nancy is survived by her loving husband and lifetime partner, Paul, her children Jeanne (Mike) Egan of Dayton, OH, Lee (Kathy) Morris of Bellbrook, OH, Susan (Phil) Tarczon of Traverse City, MI, Ruth (Paul) Haye of Perrysburg, OH, Janet Morris of Interlochen, MI, daughter-in-law Tracy Morris of Ghanna, OH, grandchildren Matthew Egan, Jessica (Jonathon) Eubanks, Keith Morris, Rachel (Andrew) Lowen, Paul Morris, Kevin (Jenna) Tarczon, Scott (Sarah) Tarczon, Ben Morris, Jennifer (Ryan) Brueshaber, Mark Haye and Tim (Tara) Haye, and Great-grandchildren Jonah and Piper Eubanks, Issac Haye and Elise Brueshaber and many nieces and nephews. Nancy was predeceased by son Brian (Tracy) Morris, sisters Margaret Ann Ferguson and Dorothy Shadle, and parents E.W. and Olive McCall.

Susan K. (McCullough) Cook, 75, of Frostburg, passed away Friday, March 19, 2021, at Egle Nursing Home, Lonaconing. Susan was born on July 10, 1945, in Washington, Pa. She was preceded in death by her parents, Price Reed and Blanch Irene (Dawson) McCullough, of Claysville, Pa. She graduated from McGuffey High School, Class of 1963, Muskingum University New Concord Ohio, Class of 1967, and received her Master's Degree as a Guidance Counselor from Frostburg State University. She taught Home Economics at Valley High School and Fort Hill High School. She then was a Guidance Counselor at Fort Hill High School and Cash Valley Elementary School where she retired in 2010. Susan is survived by her husband, Dr. A. Douglas Cook. They were married on June 20, 1992. Also surviving are her son, Judson W. Lowe, of Tucson, Ariz.; daughter, Katherine S. Kennell, of Morgantown, W.Va.; stepdaughter, Laura Cook Diller and husband, Dr. James W. Diller, of Middletown, Conn. Her grandchildren include Alicia D. Curry and husband, Nathan, of LaVale, Jacob A. Kennell and Dawson A. Kennell, Morgantown; and great-grandson, James Wyatt Curry, of LaVale. She is also survived by her brother, Ray A. McCullough and wife, Patricia, of Washington, Pa.; and by nephews, Stephen McCullough and Scott McCullough and wife, Megan, and their son, James. Susan was a member of Frostburg United Methodist Church where she sang in the choir for over 40 years. She will be remembered for her beautiful soprano voice. She served on many committees and enjoyed spending time with her church family. Most of all, she enjoyed spending time with her family and especially her grandchildren and great-grandson. For many years Susan enjoyed entertaining friends and family at the Cook's place at Deep Creek Lake. She enjoyed traveling to many countries and most of the United States with family and friends. She especially loved Yellowstone National Park and Grand Teton Mountains. Trips to Illinois to visit the cousin's farm and lake was another favorite destination. 

Elverne (Sunny) Tipton, 99, died peacefully at home Feb. 18, 2021. She was born Elverne McCoy June 26, 1921, in Hanover, Pa. She graduated from Muskingum College in 1943 and began her career as an elementary school teacher in Lorain, Ohio. She married her husband, Bob, in 1944. After living all over the country, they settled in Monroe in 1960 with their three daughters. Sunny taught fourth grade at Monroe Elementary School for eight years. and Bob worked as an AFDC caseworker for the Maine Department of Social Services. Sunny went on to teach sixth grade at Searsport Elementary School for three years until both she and Bob retired in 1973. In 2003 she and Bob moved from Maine to southern California to be closer to their family and enjoy milder winters. Sunny was a member of the Monroe Community Church until 1970, when she joined St. Margaret's Episcopal Church in Belfast. She and Bob sang in the church choir for 10 years. She played piano at the Bradbury Manor Nursing Home and Harbor Hill Care Center for the residents' Sunday services for 25 years. She was well loved by all who knew her for her kind, sweet, gentle nature and her sunny outlook on life. She was always devoted to her family, loyal and generous with friends. She kept in close contact, with extensive written correspondence and visits. She loved books, nature, music, conversation, children and cats. She was a wonderful cook and baker, well known for her blueberry pies and Christmas fudge. She and Bob enjoyed hiking, camping, swimming and driving trips throughout their years. Sunny was preceded in death by her husband, Bob, in 2008. Survivors include her daughters, Judith Shester and husband Alex of Carlsbad, Calif., Connie York of Taos, N.M. and Cynthia Tipton of La Jolla, Calif.; her grandchildren, Geoffrey, Blake, Ashleigh, Eliot, Zachary and Jamison; five great-grandchildren; her brother, Pressley McCoy, of Walnut Creek, Calif.; and many nieces and nephews. 

James S. Reef, age 86, a longtime resident of Hudson Ohio passed away Sunday March 21, 2021, peacefully surrounded by family. He was a devoted husband, father and grandfather. Born in Chardon, OH, Jim graduated Valedictorian from Chardon High School in 1952. His senior year of High School was spent at Muskingham College, OH where he graduated in 1954 with a major in Mathematics and minors in Biology, Chemistry, Physics and Psychology. At the age of 19 he was accepted to Thomas Jefferson Medical School in Philadelphia receiving his Medical degree in 1958. While in medical school, Jim joined the United States Air Force as part of the Junior Senior Program and served from 1956-1963. He did a rotating internship at Tripler Army Hospital and was a Flight Surgeon at Lackland and Vance Air Force Bases. Captain Reef received an Honorable Discharge from the Air Force in 1963. He did a Radiology residency at Akron General Hospital and an NIH fellowship in Texas at Parkland and MD Anderson hospitals in Radiation Therapy and Nuclear medicine. Dr. Reef returned to Cleveland after completing his fellowship and practiced locally at Akron General Hospital, Aultman Hospital, Trumbull Memorial Hospital and spent 27 years with the Ohio Permenate Medical Group associated with Kaiser Permanate and finally retired in 2006. After retirement, Jim continued practicing medicine intermittently all over the country relieving other physicians. He travelled to Indian Reservations and many locations along the Southern border. Dr. Reef was regarded as an empathetic and compassionate caregiver by his patients and colleagues. Jim had many varied interests, he enjoyed playing golf, chess, poker and had a special interest in horse racing. He loved sports and was a diehard Browns and Cavs fan but especially enjoyed watching his children and grandchildren's activities. He is preceded in death by his parents Clarence and Edna (nee Cline) Reef and a brother Dr. Thomas Reef. He is survived by his beloved wife Patricia (nee Murphy) Reef, and his children, Chris (Michelle) Reef of Rocky River, Jennifer (Michael) Strilesky of Kent, Jim (Kelly) Reef of Stow, Scott (Amy) Reef of New Jersey, Meredith (Michael) Fiorucci of New Jersey, Andrew (Michelle) Reef of New Jersey, his grandchildren, Jillian, Maggie and CJ Reef, Taylor, Ivy and Grayson Strilesky, Abby, Mason and Wyatt Reef, Evan, Haley, Brianna and Jenna Reef, Michela, Drew, Emma, Mase Fiorucci and Jordan, Trevor, Colin and Lindsey Reef. 

Charlotte Rae (McCracken) Bell, 87, of Bucyrus, passed away Sunday (March 28, 2021) at her home of her niece in Elyria. She was born December 1, 1933 in Cambridge, daughter of the late Ray McCracken and Isabelle (Grove) McCracken. Ms. Bell was a retired school teacher. She graduated from Muskingum College and the University of Dayton, earning Master's degrees in Counseling and in English. She was an active member of the First United Methodist Church in Kenton. Ms. Bell was a member of the Elks of Kenton. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by three sisters, Alice Kinnard, Margaret Thompson, and Mary Elizabeth Denny; and a brother, William McCracken. She is survived by her son, Matt (Debbie) Bell of Russell KY; her daughter, Jane (Mike) Daiber of Bucyrus; eight grandchildren, Rachael, Kailah, Nathan, Isaac, Faith, Lyndsay, Tate, and Brady; eight great-grandchildren; and many nieces & nephews.

William Anderson was born on November 24th, 1926 in Egypt, the eldest son of Presbyterian missionary parents. He spent much of his childhood in Sudan and Egypt. He graduated from Muskingum College in Ohio and attended Pittsburgh Xenia Seminary and later obtained a Master degree at Princeton Theological Seminary. He married Lois Crawford in Beaver, PA in 1951 and they moved to Sudan in 1952 under the Presbyterian Church. He served as an educator in Sudan, Kenya, Uganda and again in Sudan. He and Lois had four children: Sylvia, Zelda, Philip and Stephen, all born in different African countries and eleven grandchildren. He taught at St Paul's Theological College in Limuru, Kenya for 13 years and also lectured at Makerere University in Uganda. He was instrumental in founding theological schools in Sudan including the Nile Theological College in 1990. He wrote three books on church history in Sudan and East Africa. He and Lois moved to Clinton, South Carolina in 2001 to teach at Presbyterian College. They retired in Presbyterian Homes in Clinton. Lois and Zelda were tragically murdered in a car-jacking incident in Nairobi in January 2007. He was an enthusiastic participant of the annual New Wilmington Missionary Conference. He was a lifelong fan of the Pittsburgh Steelers. William passed away peacefully in Clinton on March 22nd, 2021. He is survived by his 3 children, 11 grandchildren, and 6 great-grandchildren.

Susan Noel Mahaffey, 55, passed away suddenly on March 25, 2021 from complications due to Multiple Sclerosis. She was diagnosed in 2003 with the disease of which she fought a long courageous and brave battle. She was born on December 24, 1965 in Columbus, Ohio. She was a resident at the Country View of Sunbury nursing home. Susan is survived by her sister and brother-in-law Cindy and David Gotschall of South Charleston, Ohio; beloved niece Hannah T. M. Gotschall of Westerville, Ohio; aunt and uncle Judy and Jim Anspaugh of Goodyear, Arizona; step aunt and uncle Carol and Steve Miller of Centennial, Colorado and numerous family members and friends. She is predeceased by parents Wayne and Diana Mahaffey, grandparents L. Burdette and Dorothy Jane Jones Miller, step grandfather Perry E. Miller and other family members. Susan graduated in 1984 from Westerville South High School where she was an active member of the award-winning marching band, playing the trumpet and flugelhorn. Also a member of the schools orchestra and the National Honor Society. She was a 1988 graduate of Muskingum College in New Concord, Ohio with a Bachelors degree in International Business. She was also an FAD Club member there. Susan received a teaching certificate from Otterbein College in Westerville in 1993. She substituttaught for the Westerville school district on occasion. She was a 20-year employee of Roush Hardware in their housewares department. Susan also worked for the Westerville Parks and Recreation department in several capacities. 

Carl Joseph Kopp, age 89, of London, Ohio, died Friday, March 26, 2021, in Kobacker House at Columbus following a period of declining health. Born in the family home in Tuscarawas on December 23, 1931, Carl was a son of the late John and Alta Van Lehn Kopp. After his graduation from the former Tuscarawas-Warwick High School, Carl obtained a Bachelor of Science Degree from Muskingum University where he played basketball and focused his studies on Geology. He went on to work for the Ohio Department of Natural Resources and spent much of his career working on Geological Engineering projects that pertained to highways, the oil and gas industry and dam safety. He often commented on the fact he had surveyed the grounds around what is now Interstate 70 at Cambridge while that project was in its planning stages and retired in 2001 after many years of service. He was a longtime member of Redeemer Moravian Church at Dublin and enjoyed collecting and restoring antique Allis Chalmers tractors. His other favorite past-times were watching his granddaughter play softball, traveling to Germany for family reunions and vacationing with his wife. Surviving is his daughter, Jill (Andy) McLoughlin of London; a granddaughter, Joy McLoughlin of London; a special cousin, Katherine Shamel of Tuscarawas; three brothers-in-law, Don (Janet) Decker of Tuscarawas, John (Judy) Decker of Phoenix, AZ and James (JoAnne) Decker of Delaware and numerous nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, Carl was preceded in death by his wife of 54 years, Jean M. Kopp, whom he married on December 26, 1964 and preceded him passing on August 17, 2019; their son, Gary Kopp; a brother, John Kopp; a special cousin, Martha Rolli, and a brother-in-law, Allen Decker. 

She was born on December 12, 1937 at Topmost, Kentucky to the late Virnus and Mae Isaacs. She attended Alice Lloyd College, Moorehead University and Muskingum College. She taught school for thirty years in Kentucky and Ohio. She retired in 1995 from teaching. She and her husband went on to start a home interior business in Walnut Creek, OH called "Carriage House" which they enjoyed for 22 years. Doris enjoyed teaching, reading, boating, square dancing, horseback riding, and she loved travelling throughout the world. She was a member of "Gingham & Swing 'Em" square dance club of Coshocton and "Zane and Janes" of Zanesville. She also worked with the 4-H Club and Brownies. Doris was also an avid Ohio State Buckeye fan. Doris is survived by her husband of 61 years, Larry Dawson. They have two daughters, Jodi Dawson and Shellie Dawson of Buckeye Lake. She is also survived by four sisters, Mabel Childers of Lexington, Kentucky, Yvonne (Ralph) Howard of Mousie, Kentucky, Phyllis (Walter) Herald of Louisville, Kentucky, June (Larry) Van Lear of Mt. Sidney, Virginia, and five nieces and one nephew. She is a member of Conesville United Methodist Church and attended Millersport United Methodist Church. Along with her parents, she was preceded in death by father and mother-in-law, Carl and Launa Dawson, sister-in-laws Linda Martter and Valda Dawson, brother-in-law Sidney Childers, Jack Dawson, and Ronnie Martter, and nephew Rocky Martter. Doris always had a smile and a kind word. She was amazing, generous, sweet spirited, and a blessing to all that knew her. She will be missed deeply.

Elaine S. Eckels of Mansfield, passed away Tuesday afternoon, April 6, 2021, at her home at the age of 64. She was born August 24, 1956, in Cocoa Beach, Florida, to the late Raymond and Donna (Graffius) Eckels. She was a 1974 graduate of Clear Fork High School, did her undergraduate work at Muskingum University and earned her juris doctorate from the University of Toledo in 1982. She was an avid reader and crocheted the most special baby blankets. Elaine attended Resurrection Parish. Elaine was very proud of her family, loved her grandchildren immensely, and considered all of them her greatest treasures. She is survived by four children, Melissa Lajoie of Clinton, MA, Melanie Lajoie (Clinton Peoples) of Denver, CO, Meagan Lajoie of Colorado Springs, CO, and Melody (Jacob) Bennett of Pueblo West, CO; five grandchildren, Bennett Lajoie of Clinton, MA, Tinley Lajoie of Colorado Springs, CO, Lacy Voss-Bennett, Lincoln Bennett, and Thea Bennett of Pueblo West, CO; a brother, Brad Eckels of Mansfield; three sisters, Linda (Thomas) Pfizenmayer of Lexington, Diane (Steven) Kalliantas of Delaware, OH, and Deb (Greg) Owens of Mansfield; and numerous nieces and nephews. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by a brother, David Eckels.

Frank E. Hare, age 90, of Amesville died Friday evening, April 9, 2021 at his home. Born Aug. 15,1930 in Pittsburgh, PA, he was the son of the late Frank E. Hare, Sr. and Edith Landis Hare. He was a 1948 graduate of Westview High School, a 1952 graduate of Muskingum College, and a 1955 graduate of Pittsburgh-Xenia Seminary. He served pastorates at West Beaver-New Lebanon Parish, Alexander Presbyterian, Amesville-New England Parish, and Doanville Presbyterian Chapel. He was coordinator of the Coalition for Appalachian Ministry (CAM), one of the founders of the Athens County Food Pantry, involved with camping programs at Geneva Hills, and the Camp Committee of Geneva Hills Presbytery of Scioto Valley. Frank has served on the Salvation Army Board, Amesville Fire Department, and was Mayor of Amesville for 20 years. He was a member of the Amesville Grange and conducted mission trips to Niquinohomo, Nicaragua. Frank is survived by his wife of 65 years, Catherine Kisken Hare; three sons and two daughters, Bruce and Melissa Hare and their children, Brian & Brittany Hare, Matthew Hare, Aaron Hare & Tessa Haneline, Riley and Gabrielle Hare; Keith and Priscilla Hare and their children, Sarah & Chris Bowles (Evan & Eli), Emily Hare, Keegan & Alina Hare; Carol Hare and her children, Jenny Hare & Kameron Hare; Nancy and Dan Dobbelaer and their children, Leah & Justin Gregory (Lila, Luke, Audrey & Harper), Rachel Dobbelaer & Adam Seeley, Zachary Dobbelear and Seth Dobbelaer; Mark and Jenny Hare, and their children, Keila Hare and Annika Hare. He is also survived by his brother, Robert Hare of Peekskill, NY; and several nieces and nephews; and the family dog, Penny. Besides his parents he is preceded in death by a sister and her husband, Jean & Stew Ringland; a brother and his wife, David & Flo Hare; and a sister-in-law, Louise Hare.

David Slater Mitchell, died on Thursday, April 1, 2021, at Providence Point, Scott Twp, where he has lived with his wife for 11 years. He was born on November 5, 1933. Formerly of Mt. Lebanon, David graduated from Mercersburg Academy and the Muskingum College in New Concord, Ohio. Drafted into the Army, he was trained in a new industry, computer programming. During his career in that field, he became Vice President of Information Technology at the Federal Home Loan Bank in Pittsburgh and the President of spin-off Financial Accounting Services, serving Savings & Loan banks in four states. He was an avid sports fan, especially the Steelers, loved gardening, big jig saw puzzles, and jazz. He is survived by his wife of 64 years, Lota Echols Mitchell, son Douglas (Shannon) and daughter Julie, grandchildren Colleen and Joe, brother Robert (Janet), niece Holly Heitmann (Noel), and nephew Jeff (Gayle). Another son, David Scott Mitchell, and a brother Jack preceded him in death. 

John Dickson Bolton Jr. of Grove City, Ohio passed away Saturday, March 20, 2021 at Mount Carmel Hospital Grove City. John (Dick) was 93 years old. He graduated from Oliver High School in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, as well as Muskingum College in New Concord, Ohio. While attending Muskingum, he met his wife Barbara. Dick served in the U.S. Army during the Korean War. He was stationed at Fort Dix, New Jersey. He served as a specialist, coordinating and performing entertainment for the troops on the base as well as in bivouac. He worked in advertising in Pittsburg, Pennsylvania, and in later years as a technical writer for United States Steel. His great avocation was the theater and film. He started out as an usher at Heinz Hall in Pittsburg. Later he acted in and directed the Penn Hills Players, a community theater group in the Pittsburgh area. Through Army connections he told great stories of meeting famous actors and actresses backstage in New York theaters. His participation in local theater continued when he and Barbara moved to the Columbus, Ohio area. Dick was active at Trinity United Methodist Church of Grove City, Ohio, where he was a member of the church choir and faithfully attended the Senior Adult Sunday School Class. He was preceded in death by his wife Barbara Bolton and his sister Marilyn Bolton Murphey.

Ralph E. Sharrer, 92, passed away Monday, April 19, 2021, at the Helen Purcell Home. He was born January 4, 1929 in Zanesville to the late Anna Sharrer. He was a graduate of Lash High School and Muskingum College. Ralph was a teacher and coach at Adamsville, Grover Cleveland, Roosevelt, Zanesville and back to Roosevelt, where he retired. He was the assistant basketball coach at Zanesville and coached football and basketball at Grover Cleveland. Ralph was also an avid golfer, bowler and loved playing cards with his family and friends. He and Ruth enjoyed traveling and vacationing upon retirement. Ralph is survived by his loving soulmate Ruth E. Walters Sharrer; a son John (Lynn) Sharrer; seven grandchildren: Amy (Mark) Johnson, Lori Sharrer, Drew (Tashia) Sharrer, Jordan (Brandi) Sharrer, Taylor (Jessica) Sharrer, Meagan (Michael) Mayes and Charlie (Tabbitha) Ansel; nine great grandchildren and daughter in law Cheryl Sharrer. In addition to mother he was preceded in death by a son Dean Sharrer and a daughter Debbie Ansel. 

Marjorie "Marge" Barton Kile , age 92, of Kendallville, died on Wednesday, April 14, 2021 at Sacred Heart Independent Living in Avilla, Indiana. Marge was born on April 13, 1929 at her parent's home outside Mt. Vernon, Ohio, to the late George and Mattie Lore Barton. Marge graduated from Mt. Vernon High School, attended Muskingum College for one year, and graduated from Ohio State University with a degree in Elementary Education. Marge was united in marriage to David Oliver Kile on June 12, 1949 at her parent's home. She taught school in Caledonia, Portsmouth, and Xenia, Ohio before moving to Kendallville in 1965. There she was the librarian at Kendallville Jr. High School. When Dave was transferred to Columbus, Ohio for several years, Marge was the librarian at Walnut Springs. When she and Dave retired, they moved back to Kendallville. Marge loved God, her family, and her community. Survivors include; Daughter, Kathy and Kevin Buckingham of West Lafayette, Indiana. Daughter-in-law, Janis Kile of Wellington, Florida. 6 Grandchildren and 15 great grandchildren. Marge was preceded in death by her parents, her husband Dave of 70 years, a son, Howard Barton "Bart" Kile, and a brother, Ralph Barton. 

Margery A. (Thomas) Garrett Watson, 88, of Barnesville, Ohio passed away on Tuesday, April 20, 2021, at Emerald Pointe Nursing & Rehabilition. She was born on November 21, 1932, in Barnesville, Ohio to the late Walter Fisher and Mary Leah (Stubbs) Thomas. Margery was a 1950 graduate of Barnesville High School and a 1954 graduate of Muskingum College. She taught Kindergarten for 19 years at Barnesville School and for 15 years at Elmherst School in Elmherst, Illinois. She also worked for Pederson-Ryberg Funeral Home in Elmherst and for Window Fashions by Beth in St. Clairsville. She was a member of the Barnesville First Presbyterian Church where she sang in the choir, was a Sunday School Teacher, Deaconess, Elder, and Trustee. She was past Secretary and Treasurer of Board of Deacons, past Presbytery Chairman, past Commissioner of Upper Ohio Valley of Presbytery, and past advisor to the Presbyterian Youth Fellowship. She was also past officer of the OES Barnesville Chapter and Barnesville Garden Club. Margery was a Charter Member of the White Iron Stone China Association, Inc., member of the Bells of the Valley Ladies Barbershop Chorus, and Red Hat Ramblers of Belmont County. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by an infant sister; sister, Mary Lee and Errol Brill; and niece, Kathy and Steve Hannig. Margery is survived by niece, Beth Smith of Barnesville, Tom (Beth) Brill of Barnesville; great-nieces & nephews, Holly Smith Schanks, Amy (Heath) Smith, Beth Ann (Jeremy) Starr, T.J. (Kristi) Hannig, and Mary Beth (Brian) Kwak; great-great nieces & nephews, Joshua, Emily, Hannah, Faith, Grace, Lincoln, Grace, Alden, Jared, Bailee, Camden, and Stella; and great-great-great nieces & nephews, Elowyn and Jenson.

Wilmington - Andrew "Andy" James Meanor, 73, husband of Lois Helmerson of Wilmington, passed away at his home early in the morning on Monday, December 28, 2020. His passing is due to complications caused by Lewy body dementia.

Andy is survived by wife, sons Chris Meanor, Kris (Michelle) Kery, and Chris Helmerson, daughter Christine (Aaron) Wallace, and 4 grandchildren, all of Wilmington, DE. He is also survived by his older sister Joan (Sam) Holtgraver of Silver Spring, MD, and Vance (Laura) Meanor of Wilmington, NC.

James Theodore "Ted" Williams, age 73, died on July 10, 2020. Ted grew up in Indiana County, PA, received his bachelor's degree from Muskingum University in 1970 and his master's degree from Glassboro State College (now Rowan University) in 1974. While attending Muskingum University, he met and married his wife, Barbara. He and his family have lived in Pitman since 1971. Ted taught English at Washington Township High School from 1974 until his retirement in 2002. He also taught Public Speaking at Rowan College of South Jersey. He was a devoted family man whose retirement coincided with the birth of his granddaughter in 2002, whom he referred to as "his new best friend." Ted enjoyed family time both in Pitman and at his home in Stone Harbor, NJ.

Survived by his wife of 51 years, Barbara (nee Bole), children James Theodore, Jr. (Danielle), Laura (Kevin) Monahon and granddaughter, Olivia Monahon.
 

John McWreath Valentour (Jack), 92, passed away July 14, 2020. He was born in McDonald, PA to Mary and Louis Valentour. He was residing at The Palmettos in Bluffton, SC and called to his heavenly home while sleeping.

After Jack graduated from McDonald HS, he served with the military police in Osaka, Japan. From his military service he went on to Muskingum College in Ohio, where he met the love of his life - June Delorise Davis, married Feb 3, 1952 (67yrs). They started their life together in Park Forest, IL where Jack was a Kiwanis member and became president of the local club in 1962.

Jack was employed at Goodyear, then RJR Archer Inc. (Filmco Division) where he retired as vice president of sales. He resided in Lisle, IL, Aurora, OH, then retirement led him to Hilton Head Island, SC where he drove a school bus for the HH public schools. He also volunteered at the visitor center on the island and gave informative beach walks.

His love of nature and outdoors was evident in his daily jogs and beach walks on HHI. He had a wonderful way of storytelling and kept us all laughing.  His granddaughter says he was saucy and fun!! He enjoyed traveling across the USA, British Isles, Italy, Egypt as well as China and Hong Kong.  Jack was a cultured and forever curious lifelong learner. He was an avid Pittsburgh Steelers and Pirates fan. He also made the best chocolate/peanut-butter fudge and pralines.

Jack was a founding member of Lumen Christi United Presbyterian Church in IL and member of HH Presbyterian Church.

Mr. Valentour was preceded in death by his parents; his beloved wife June (Sept 2019); son John M. Valentour Jr; his brother Louis Valentour of Pittsburgh and Sister Jeanne McDonald of Mt. Lebanon.

His life will forever be cherished in the lives of his children -

Jeanne (Larry) Williams, Bluffton, SC - Lance (Debbie) Valentour of Naperville, IL - Elizabeth (John) Wagner of Greenfield, IN - Louis (Phyllis) Valentour of Bolingbrook, IL. Grandchildren (9) Jennifer (Jeff), Laura (Justin), John, Eric, Heather (Mike), Angela (Brian), Jordan, Brian, Erin (Marcia),

13 great grandchildren as well as nieces Diane, Cathy, Sarah and nephew John.

Richard D. Zaugg, age 91, of Mentor, Ohio formerly of Coshocton, died Saturday March 13, 2021 surrounded by his family. He was born on April 21,1929 in Coshocton County to Ralph and Mildred (Crowthers) Zaugg. After graduating from Coshocton High School in 1947, he went on to Muskingum College where he played 4 years of football. He served in the United States Air Force where he was stationed in Japan. Richard was a life time member of the Coshocton Elks Lodge BPOE 376. On January 9, 1954 he married Catherine Jane (Hanley) Zaugg who passed away on March 21, 2015.Richard leaves behind his children: Ellyn (Tom) Meiser of Coshocton, Steve (Beth) Zaugg of Alexandria, Kentucky, and Jeff (Cheri) Zaugg of Mentor. Grandchildren Tony (Amanda) Meiser, Christopher (Jeannette) Meiser, Megan Grosz, Drew (Becky) Zaugg, Erinn (Pete) Grunkemeyer, Joe Zaugg , Jeffrey Zaugg and 11 great-grandchildren.Along with his wife and parents, Richard is preceded in death by his brother Ronald and sister-in-law Dorothy Zaugg.

Christopher Scott McKee 41, of Zanesville passed away from a sudden illness Thursday March 18, 2021. He was born in Zanesville on September 24, 1979. Chris was a loving father, husband and son. He loved his family very much and enjoyed spending as much time with them as possible. Chris was very proud of his Native American and Scottish heritage. He was as much at home at a pow-wow as he was at a Scottish game. Chris loved music and was a talented musician. He was a drummer on Chief Two Feathers drum, a member of the Blue Knights, Rusty Knights, Rich Simcox Band and gave music lessons to many. He was a graduate of Muskingum Tech and Muskingum College. He was employed by the Auditor of State and was a trained gold and silver smith. Chris was a mountain of a man and possessed a mountain of knowledge. He enjoyed making and restoring pipes and was a member of the North American Society of Pipe Collectors. He was a talented jewelry maker and flint knapper. He enjoyed working with leather and beadwork as well. Chris had many skills including carpentry, tilework and restoring furniture. Along with his many talents he was licensed to perform marriages and enjoyed being able to do this for family and friends. Chris is survived by his wife Sarah Ramsey McKee; one son Alexander Christopher McKee; his father Scott (Jenine) Krofft McKee; his mother Brenda (Dick) Painter Tubaugh; siblings: Mike (Jessica) McKee, Bobby (Halley) McKee, Valerie (Tim) Biggam , Trish (Zack) Noon and Molly (Eric) Puckett; grandmother Patricia (Bob) Painter Dantzer; aunts and uncles: Donald (Diane) McKee, Pam Edwards and Carol Shuey; in-laws: Keith Ramsey, Marilyn Ramsey; brother-in-law Jesse Eli Ramsey; and several nieces, nephews and cousins. He was preceded in death by his first wife Angela Rae McKee; grandparents: Donald and Evelyn McKee, Richard Painter, Ethel "Jo" Krofft, Bennie and Sarah Starr, Robert and Thelma McKee; aunt Patricia Fluharty and uncle Bob Edwards.

Susan K. (McCullough) Cook, 75, of Frostburg, passed away Friday, March 19, 2021, at Egle Nursing Home, Lonaconing. Susan was born on July 10, 1945, in Washington, Pa. She was preceded in death by her parents, Price Reed and Blanch Irene (Dawson) McCullough, of Claysville, Pa. She graduated from McGuffey High School, Class of 1963, Muskingum University New Concord Ohio, Class of 1967, and received her Master's Degree as a Guidance Counselor from Frostburg State University. She taught Home Economics at Valley High School and Fort Hill High School. She then was a Guidance Counselor at Fort Hill High School and Cash Valley Elementary School where she retired in 2010. Susan is survived by her husband, Dr. A. Douglas Cook. They were married on June 20, 1992. Also surviving are her son, Judson W. Lowe, of Tucson, Ariz.; daughter, Katherine S. Kennell, of Morgantown, W.Va.; stepdaughter, Laura Cook Diller and husband, Dr. James W. Diller, of Middletown, Conn. Her grandchildren include Alicia D. Curry and husband, Nathan, of LaVale, Jacob A. Kennell and Dawson A. Kennell, Morgantown; and great-grandson, James Wyatt Curry, of LaVale. She is also survived by her brother, Ray A. McCullough and wife, Patricia, of Washington, Pa.; and by nephews, Stephen McCullough and Scott McCullough and wife, Megan, and their son, James. Susan was a member of Frostburg United Methodist Church where she sang in the choir for over 40 years. She will be remembered for her beautiful soprano voice. She served on many committees and enjoyed spending time with her church family. Most of all, she enjoyed spending time with her family and especially her grandchildren and great-grandson. For many years Susan enjoyed entertaining friends and family at the Cook's place at Deep Creek Lake. She enjoyed traveling to many countries and most of the United States with family and friends. She especially loved Yellowstone National Park and Grand Teton Mountains. Trips to Illinois to visit the cousin's farm and lake was another favorite destination.

Elverne (Sunny) Tipton, 99, died peacefully at home Feb. 18, 2021. She was born Elverne McCoy June 26, 1921, in Hanover, Pa. She graduated from Muskingum College in 1943 and began her career as an elementary school teacher in Lorain, Ohio. She married her husband, Bob, in 1944. After living all over the country, they settled in Monroe in 1960 with their three daughters. Sunny taught fourth grade at Monroe Elementary School for eight years. and Bob worked as an AFDC caseworker for the Maine Department of Social Services. Sunny went on to teach sixth grade at Searsport Elementary School for three years until both she and Bob retired in 1973. In 2003 she and Bob moved from Maine to southern California to be closer to their family and enjoy milder winters. Sunny was a member of the Monroe Community Church until 1970, when she joined St. Margaret's Episcopal Church in Belfast. She and Bob sang in the church choir for 10 years. She played piano at the Bradbury Manor Nursing Home and Harbor Hill Care Center for the residents' Sunday services for 25 years. She was well loved by all who knew her for her kind, sweet, gentle nature and her sunny outlook on life. She was always devoted to her family, loyal and generous with friends. She kept in close contact, with extensive written correspondence and visits. She loved books, nature, music, conversation, children and cats. She was a wonderful cook and baker, well known for her blueberry pies and Christmas fudge. She and Bob enjoyed hiking, camping, swimming and driving trips throughout their years. Sunny was preceded in death by her husband, Bob, in 2008. Survivors include her daughters, Judith Shester and husband Alex of Carlsbad, Calif., Connie York of Taos, N.M. and Cynthia Tipton of La Jolla, Calif.; her grandchildren, Geoffrey, Blake, Ashleigh, Eliot, Zachary and Jamison; five great-grandchildren; her brother, Pressley McCoy, of Walnut Creek, Calif.; and many nieces and nephews.