Herbert Hugh Smith, Geraldine Joan Walker, Stanley Elliot Draine, Drew C. Godby
Herbert Hugh Smith
Herbert Hugh Smith, 87, of Kokomo, Indiana, passed away August 20, 2025. He was born on December 29, 1937, in Plymouth, Indiana, the son of Everett E. and Fanny B. (Fennig) Smith. He married Phyllis Kay Smith who survives.
Herb attended school in Geneva and Indianapolis before graduating in 1956 from Southport in Indy. After graduating he served in the Indiana National Guard for nearly 10 years where he was one of four members of the Governor's Honor Guard. He later attended the General Motors Institute in Flint, Michigan, while working at Allison Division of GM Corp. in Indy where he received his Bachelor of Science as an Industrial Engineer in 1962. In 1963, he moved to Kokomo for a position at Delco Electronics as their second Packaging Engineer, designing boxes to house the radio components. He dedicated nearly 30 years, providing knowledge and support with many years as the sole expert in his area. He was also a member of SPHE (Society of Packaging & Handling Engineers) and active in the local Jaycees Chapter.
Herb first introduced himself to Kay on August 23, 1963, and she was surprised to hear his last name ... Smith ... same as hers! Their courtship was short, just over six months, before marrying on March 14, 1964, in Brownsburg, Indiana. Yet their love stood the test of time for more than 61 years!
He had a heart for service and was a long-time member of First Christian Church, where he was very involved throughout the years on the board, as an elder, and as the financial coordinator.
Left to cherish his memory is his loving wife of 61 years Kay; daughters Beverly (Aaron) Tyler and Jennifer (Andy) Dobson; grandchildren Bailey Tyler (Loretta Hinds), Kira Tyler, Lucy Dobson, and Scott Dobson; brother Bob (the late Helen) Smith; sister-in-law June (the late Jim) Edison; and many nieces and nephews.
Herb was preceded in death by his parents and sister Betty (Howard) Thrall.
When asked for his advice for the younger generation, his reply was "To love everyone around you."
Memorial contributions may be made in Herb's name to First Christian Church.
Visitation will take place at First Christian Church, 854 County Road 300 West, Kokomo, on Saturday, August 23, 2025, from 9:00 a.m. until the start of funeral services at 11:00 a.m. Entombment will follow at Sunset Memory Garden Cemetery. Share a memory with the family at www.Sunsetmemorygarden.com
Geraldine Joan Walker
In the heart of Ft. Wayne, where the maples stand tall,
Geraldine Joan Walker, known as Gerry to all.
In seventy-six, on November the ninth,
A soul was born, her spirit to entwine.
She danced through the years with a radiant smile,
In Kokomo's embrace, she stayed for a while.
On August's eighteenth, in twenty-twenty-five,
Gerry's melody paused, her memories alive.
Karen's daughter, with Danny's bright eyes,
A family of love, under Indiana skies.
Destiny's mother, with a heart so grand,
Becky (Scott) and Jennifer (William), sisters hand in hand.
Michael and Joseph, her brothers so dear,
With Maryann by his side, Joseph shed a tear.
Nieces and nephews, a joyous brigade,
In Gerry's warm laughter, their fondness displayed.
Kokomo High was her youthful domain,
A springboard to life, where her character gained.
At Lorentson Manufacturing, she found her career,
A testament to work, year after year.
A Christian in faith, with a soul so pure,
Her love for the Lord, forever sure.
Music and travel were her heart's delight,
In songs and new places, her spirit took flight.
Making TikTok videos, a modern-day bard,
Singing her tunes, she held no regard.
For the judgment of others, she lived free and bold,
In every frame captured, her story told.
With family and friends, her time was well spent,
In every shared moment, her love was evident.
Loving and funny, with passion so fierce,
Her laughter and zeal, through sadness could pierce.
Gerry, oh Gerry, a beacon so bright,
Your journey continues, beyond our sight.
In verses and rhymes, we remember your name,
Geraldine Joan Walker, eternal your flame.
There will be a Celebration of Life on Saturday, August 23, 2025, at 12 p.m. with Pastor Jeff Russell officiating at New Beginnings Christian Fellowship. Prior to the Celebration friends and family may gather from 10 a.m. until 12 p.m.
City of Firsts Cremation and Funeral Services by Rose and Geiger was entrusted with the arrangements. www.cityoffirstscremations.com
Stanley Elliot Draine
Stanley Elliot Draine, age 3, passed away unexpectedly on Monday, August 18, 2025, at IU Health in Tipton. Stanley was born on July 9, 2022, in Indianapolis, Indiana, to his parents Sam Draine & Angel Baker.
Born at just 24 weeks and three days, weighing only a pound and a half, he came into this world alongside his twin brother Lincoln as a true miracle. From the very beginning, he showed a strength far greater than his tiny frame, teaching all those around him what it means to fight with grace and love. His beautiful smile carried a light that could soften even the heaviest of hearts, and his spirit made only to love. He gave his family strength simply by being himself, filling the home with warmth through his sweet demeanor and love for cuddles. With his siblings, he was endlessly patient and kind. Stanley was a quiet soul who brought peace wherever he was. Though his time here on earth was far too short, the love he gave was infinite, and the memory of his gentle, courageous spirit will forever live on in the hearts that were blessed to know him!
Those left to carry on Stanley’s legacy of love are his parents Sam Draine & Angel Baker; his siblings Amiyah York, Martin Draine, twin Lincoln Draine, and Everleigh Draine; grandparents Andrew & Debbie Draine, Deborah Baker, and Clinton Harrison; great-grandparents Michael & Daphne Draine and Jane Goodyear; and his uncle Donald Baker.
Stanley was welcomed into Heaven by his great-grandparents Robert & Peggy Chaudion, great-grandpa Roland Goodyear; great-great grandpa Stanley Harris; uncle Tom Draine; and great uncles Tony Chaudion and Roger Chaudion.
A funeral service celebrating Stanley’s life will take place on Saturday, August 23, 2025, at 1:30 PM at Trinity Wesleyan Church, located at 3021 IN-28 in Tipton with Pastor Nicholas Heck officiating. Visitation for family & friends will be held from 12:30 PM to 1:30 PM prior to the service at the church. A private burial will take place following the service.
We invite those attending the service to bring a small teddy bear to place around the casket; a symbol of the warmth and comfort that Stanley brought to others. These bears will be laid to rest with him, surrounding him with love.
Stanley’s family would like to extend their deepest gratitude to all of the incredible caregivers who have played such a meaningful role in their lives. There are far too many wonderful individuals to name, but special thanks go to the entire care staff at Community North, Riley Children’s Hospital, Dr. Montgomery & team, Dr. Partain & team, and Colleen & team at First Steps. Your compassion, dedication, and support have made a lasting impact, and the family will always be thankful.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in Stanley’s honor may be made directly to the funeral home to help ease the burden of funeral expenses. Additionally, contributions may be made to Riley Children’s Hospital, a cause dear to the family’s heart. The family is deeply grateful for the love, kindness, and support they’ve received during this incredibly difficult time.
Taylor & Cowan Funeral Home is honored to serve Stanley’s family in their time of need.
Drew C. Godby
Drew C. Godby, 35, of Sharpsville, went to be with Our Lord on August 9, 2025. He passed unexpectedly from a massive stroke at Community East Hospital in Indianapolis. Born in Kokomo, he is the beloved son of Chris & Angela (Dalton) Godby.
Drew was a Christian. Psalm 23:4 is bringing the family comfort, "Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and staff, they comfort me."
He enjoyed Star Wars, Star Trek, Boy Scouts, history, gaming, reenactments and participating in many clubs and fraternal organizations. He was an animal lover, having two dogs, Kira and Zelda, and later two cats, Gandalf and Kenji.
Drew decided on his own to be baptized at One Church when he was nine years old. He enjoyed participating in the Christmas play and attending Quaker Haven Camp in the summers. The family believes Drew was given his gifts during this time by God. The gifts of selflessness generosity and "Do unto others...”
Drew graduated from Tri-Central in 2009. He played baritone in marching band all through high school. He was in numerous clubs, including Boy Scouts. Drew earned his Eagle Scout with palms Sept 21, 2006. He earned his Order of the Arrow, Firecrafter Minisino, and Vigil Honor. Drew continued in Boy Scouts, this time as a volunteer when he was accepted into Ball State University. Drew enjoyed his time in college. He marched, playing tuba, with Ball State's "Pride of Mid-America” for four years. He was an excellent student, receiving a history scholarship from Ball State, Haynes International, Lions Club, and others. He made a lot of friends, including Justin Kersey and Jacob Dobbs. They shared his love of gaming and history. While at BSU, Drew volunteered for two organizations, “at risk" children's group and a Cub Scout pack through Boy Scouts in Muncie. In the summer, he was kitchen director, business director, then he later became camp director for Camp Kikthawenund. He graduated with his BA in History in 2013 and continued at Ball State, earning his Master of Arts Degree in East Asian History, graduating in 2016. Drew could speak, read, and write in Japanese. After BSU, Drew attended Indiana University Kokomo and received a graduate certificate in Secondary Education in Social Studies. He continued his volunteer work in the Boy Scouts.
With his education complete, Drew's first teaching job was at Clinton Central. He taught History, Economics, Government, Social Studies, and History A/P classes. He was an advisor for National Honor Society, Academic Bowl, and E-sports. He volunteered and started a gaming club. Drew was promoted to History Department Chair. He was Vice-President and then President of the Teachers Union. Drew really cared about his students.
After five years of teaching at Clinton Central, he accepted a position teaching History at Tri-Central. He was excited to teach where he graduated high school from. Drew also was their E-sports sponsor.
On April 1, 2024, Drew made the decision to leave teaching. He accepted a position at the American Legion National Headquarters in Indianapolis. Drew was the Program Manager of Youth Education. He truly loved his job and the people he worked for and with. One of his favorite job duties was traveling to different states, where he got to meet the families and students who were awarded college scholarships. He planned and took all of them to fun activities to honor them for their achievements. He was getting ready to travel to Tampa, Florida, when God took him home.
Drew was involved in many fraternal organizations that all give back to the community. He was either treasurer or held an office in most all these groups, which were: the American Legion Post 46, Lions Club of Sharpsville, Masons, Shriners Grotto, DOKK, Frankfort York Rite, Knights of Pythias, Odd Fellows, Tecumseh Lodge, Son of Union Veterans of the Civil War, MOLLUS 1812 Cannon Group, Moose, Boy Scouts, and Assistant Scout Master of Troop 595 in Tipton. Drew also enjoyed being a member of the Star Wars 501st Legion, and a medieval group, Steren Codha Social.
Drew was very close to his family. He took most all vacations with his mom, dad, and sister's family. He went to Comic-Con every year with his mom and dad. He talked every day to his parents on the phone. He was loved so very much by all his family. He was close to his nephews, making it a point to go see their football and baseball games and wrestling matches. He will be missed beyond measure. Even though his family feels such loss and pain, God reminds us there will be a reunion in Heaven.
Drew is survived by his parents Chris and Angie Godby of Sharpsville; sister Erica Silvers and husband Ryan of Kokomo; his nephews Myikel and Kenny Silvers; grandparents Jim and Ann Godby and Horace and Hilda Dalton; uncle Ty Godby (Tina); aunt Marcia Goerss; along with many special cousins. Drew was exceptionally close to his cousins Misha Jefferson and her children Phoenix and Griffin. He was also close to his cousin Marshall Banter prior to his death in 2022, and Marshall’s children Karmin Banter and Kadin McCain, and lifelong friend Dan Hodson. Drew was also preceded in death by his grandparents Mary and Bruce Raines and uncles Bill Goerss and Edward Serrano.
The family will celebrate the life of their amazing son on Thursday, September 18, at One Church, 2734 S. Washington Street, Kokomo, Indiana, with Pastor Travis Greene officiating. Visitation is from 4:00- 7:00 p.m. with a service beginning at 7:00 p.m.
Young-Nichols Funeral Home, Tipton, is assisting the family in their time of need.
The family would like for donations in Drew’s honor to be made to the Boy Scout Troop 595 in Tipton to help ensure all kids that want to attend Boy Scout Camp are able without having to worry about the costs. Please make checks payable to: Boy Scout Troop 595, 418 N. Main Street, Tipton, Indiana 46072.