Byron Keith Ables, Steven Lee Williams, Jennifer Lee (Canady) Balog, Doneta Redding, Rebecca Jo Ducker, Helen L. Arnold, Patricia Ann Short, Kerry Leonard Barnes
Byron Keith Ables
Byron Keith Ables, 67, of Hemlock, passed away at 9:35 a.m. Thursday, November 5, 2026. He was born September 4, 1959 in New Orleans, LA, to Richard O. “RED” and Bobbie (Patrick) Ables.
Keith was an avid Indiana sports fan and especially enjoyed watching the Pacers, I.U., and the Colts. He was hard-working and raised his sons with the same values. There was always a project that needed his attention or someone in need whom he helped without expecting anything in return. Most of all, he deeply loved his family and spending time with them.
He is survived by his sons Dustin and Derek Ables; daughter-in-law Bianca Ables; and grandchildren Mason, Beau, and Cole Ables.
He was preceded in death by his parents.
Funeral services celebrating Keith’s life will be at 1:00 p.m. Monday, November 9, 2026 at Mt. Gilead Baptist Church, 4439 E., 406 South, Hemlock, IN, with Pastor Steve Gollner officiating. Burial will follow in Sharpsville Cemetery. Friends may visit with the family from 11:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m. Monday at the church. Shirley & Stout Funeral Home & Crematory is assisting the family with arrangements. Messages of condolence may be left at www.shirleyandstout.com.
Steven Lee Williams
Steven Lee Williams, 78, passed away on November 4, 2026, at Waterford Healthcare Campus. Steve was a longtime resident of Kokomo, Indiana. He was born on July 16, 1948, in Logansport, Indiana, to the late Vernon L. and Edith M. (Sacks). Steve married Donna “Jeanne” (Waites) Williams on June 7, 1969, in Kokomo, and she survives.
Steve graduated from Kokomo High School in 1966 and went on to serve his country in the United States Army, working in artillery. A proud Vietnam veteran, he carried that service with quiet dignity and steadfast respect. He was a former member of VFW Post #1152.
Following his military service, Steve began a career at General Motors as a stock chaser. Known for his dependable work ethic and steady commitment, he retired in September 1996. He was also a member of the local UAW #292.
Beyond work, Steve valued the simple, meaningful pleasures of time well spent. He loved attending sprint car racing with his friends and was an avid IU fan. At home, his true passion was woodworking, and he took great pride in his yard—spending countless hours tending, improving, and perfecting his property with care and intention.
Steve is survived by his loving wife of 57 years Jeanne; three sisters-in-law Marta (Pete) Schmitt, Janet (Danny) Parks, and Sally Williams; brother-in-law Gregg Waites, of Las Vegas; special niece Jamie (Israel) Caraveo; two special twin great nephews Zaydyn and Bentley; and many other nieces and nephews.
He is preceded in death by his parents; twin brothers Larry and Gary Williams; and sister-in-law Rita Miller.
There will be a time of visitation for Steve on Tuesday, November 10, 2026, from 11:00 AM until the time of service at 2:00 PM at Sunset Memory Garden Funeral Home, 2097 West Alto Road, Kokomo. IN. Pastor Adam Rhinehart will be officiating. Entombment will follow to Sunset Memory Garden Cemetery. Full military honors will be performed by the United States Army and the VFW Post #1152 Military Rites Team. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Steve’s memory to the Kokomo Humane Society, envelopes will be provided at funeral home.
Jennifer “Jenny” Lee (Canady) Balog
Jennifer “Jenny” Lee (Canady) Balog, 58, received her crown of glory on Thursday, November 5, 2026, at Ascension St. Vincent in Kokomo, Indiana. She was born on July 12, 1968, the eldest daughter of Harold Wayne Canady and the late Sandra Jean (Russell) Canady.
Jenny was a 1986 graduate of Northwestern High School. She previously worked as a paraprofessional at Darrough Chapel and Maple Crest Elementary Schools. She married the love of her life Frank Russel Balog on June 2, 1990.
There was nothing Jenny cherished more than being a wife and mother. She dedicated her life to raising her three children and never missed an opportunity to cheer them on. Whether attending school events, volunteering in their classrooms, or encouraging them to pursue their dreams, Jenny was their greatest supporter. She took pride in their accomplishments, but above all, she was proud of the loving, kind, and compassionate people they became.
Jenny leaves behind her three precious children: Taylor George (Lauren) Balog of Fort Wayne, Indiana; Dr. Brittny Jean (Matthew) Western of Winchester, Kentucky; and Ryan Charles (Cassidy) Balog of Russiaville, Indiana.
One of Jenny’s greatest joys in life was becoming a grandmother. Affectionately known as “Robot Grandma” and “Nana,” she adored her grandchildren Russell, Trevor, and Violet Balog. On the day of her passing, Jenny received the joyful news that she would welcome another grandchild, baby Western, expected in May 2027. Although Jenny bravely battled diabetes and chronic kidney disease, the joy of loving and spending time with her grandchildren helped her through her illness and many of her toughest days.
Jenny was a devoted friend, natural nurturer, and loving big sister to Jill Canady-Hickey and Julie Canady, both of Kokomo, and Kaitlin Brockman of Zionsville. The bond Jenny shared with her sisters was truly extraordinary. Together, they made countless cherished memories, from their annual trips to Michigan to life’s simplest pleasures, like taking neighborhood walks with Jenny’s beloved dog Jackie. Through every season of life, they were one another’s constant companions, greatest confidantes, and unwavering sources of love and support. The bond they shared was unbreakable, and although they must now spend time apart, they find comfort in knowing they will one day be reunited in heaven.
Jenny had a remarkable gift for making the world around her more beautiful. Her talents and interests were many, including decorating, cooking, shopping, traveling, and putting together the perfect outfit. She had a wonderful sense of style and an eye for the details that made everything special. She also enjoyed attending services at Abundant Life Church alongside her sisters.
Jenny was blessed with a loving extended family who meant the world to her. She shared an especially treasured bond with her in-laws George and Mary Beth Balog, who loved and cherished Jenny as a daughter of their own.
In addition to her father, children, grandchildren, sisters, and father-in-law, Jenny is survived by her bonus mom Renie Canady and her loving aunt Janice Lee Weeks, both of whom devoted many hours to Jenny’s care and comfort; brothers-in-law Dennis Fuller, Charles Balog, and Michael Hickey; sister-in-law Mary Anne Fuller; nieces and nephews Lauren Hickey (Erick Rodriguez) of Washington, D.C., Emily Fuller of Kokomo, and Benjamin, Caroline, Grace, and Theodore Brockman of Zionsville; several cousins; and many beloved friends.
Jenny was reunited in heaven with her beloved husband Frank Russel Balog. She was also preceded in death by her mother Sandra Jean Canady; her paternal grandparents, Harold Floyd and Lola Canady; her maternal grandparents Lewis and Evelyn Russell; and her mother-in-law Mary Beth Balog.
Fly high in heaven our sweet butterfly, you will always be loved and never forgotten.
Funeral services will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Tuesday, November 10, 2026, at Shirley & Stout Funeral Home, 1315 W. Lincoln Road, Kokomo, with Rev. Meriah Tigner officiating. Burial will follow in Albright Cemetery. Friends are invited to visit with the family from 12:00 to 2:00 p.m. on Tuesday at the funeral home. Contributions may be made in Jenny’s memory to the Indiana Canine Assistant Network at www.donate.onecause.com/ican/donate. Messages of condolence may be left online at www.shirleyandstout.com.
Doneta Redding
Doneta Redding, 86, of Kokomo, passed away on Wednesday, November 4, 2026, at Kokomo Place. She was born on September 23, 1940, in Logansport, IN, the daughter of Wilbert and Helen (Hamon) Paschen. On March 4, 1962, she married Benny Redding at Metea Baptist Church. Benny preceded her in death on June 29, 2022.
Doneta was a 1958 graduate of Metea High School. She became a CNA and worked at Ascension Hospital for over 20 years. Doneta was a member of Judson Baptist Church. She would help on the farm and was a devoted farmer’s wife. She also enjoyed gardening, canning fruits and vegetables, and loved to mow the grass. Doneta received the Bell Ringer Award for advocation of the Pork Industry.
She is survived by her children Tim (Diana) Redding and Lynn (Toby) Yates; grandchildren Kevin (Kinsey) Redding, Craig (Kelsey Goltz) Redding, Kayla Yates, and Megan Brown; seven great-grandchildren; and siblings Robert Paschen, Gary (Diana) Paschen, and Betty Morris.
Doneta was preceded in death by her husband of 60 years Benny, parents, and siblings Charles Paschen and Pat (Charles) Breckenridge.
A funeral service celebrating Doneta’s life will be held at 1 p.m., Wednesday, November 11, 2026, at Judson Baptist Church, 1995 N 750, Kokomo, IN 46901, with Pastor Marty Pursel and Pastor LuAnn Young Edwards officiating. Burial in Burlington Cemetery will follow. Friends are invited to visit with the family from 11 a.m. until the time of the service at the church. Memorial contributions may be made to Judson Baptist Church. Message of condolence may be made at www.shirleyandstout.com.
Rebecca “Becky” Jo Ducker
Rebecca “Becky” Jo Ducker, 78 years old, of Kokomo, passed away 2:15 p.m. Saturday, October 31, 2026, at The Waters of Tipton. She was born in Kokomo, IN, on February 18, 1948, the daughter of the late Lee Otis and Marjorie L. (Thurman) Ducker.
Becky was a 1966 graduate of St. Joseph Academy in Tipton. She retired from Delco Electronics as a photo lithographer after 30 years of service. Becky was a simple gal who was witty and had a dry sense of humor. She was the most caring, loving, and supportive lady who would help anybody in need. She enjoyed shopping, especially for items shown on QVC. Becky was a devoted member of St. Joan of Arc Catholic Church in Kokomo. She loved watching sports, especially cheering for the Indianapolis Colts. She adored her pet cats named Maggie and Snowball. Becky’s favorite trips were spent visiting Italy and the Vatican City.
She is survived by her sister-in-law Maureen Hedrick; nephews Daren Hedrick, Todd Hedrick; a niece; best friend Elma Brown; Elma’s children Shellie (Jeff) Harvey, April (Tom) Fugle; Elma’s grandchildren Nichele (Zach) Spitz, Cameron (Lacie) Fugle. Becky will be loved and missed by numerous dear friends.
She was preceded in death by her parents; brother Larry Ducker; and close friend Jim Brown.
Friends are invited to visit with the family from noon to 1 p.m. Wednesday, November 11, 2026, at St. Joan of Arc Catholic Church, 3155 South, 200 West, Kokomo, IN 46902. A Mass of Christian Burial will begin at 1 p.m. on Wednesday at the church, with the Rev. Fr. Christopher Shockley the celebrant. Burial will follow in Crown Point Cemetery. Contributions may be made in Becky’s memory to St. Joan of Arc Catholic Church or the Alzheimer’s Association. Shirley & Stout Funeral Home & Crematory has been entrusted with arrangements. Messages of condolence may be left online at www.shirleyandstout.com.
Helen L. Arnold
Mrs. Helen L. Arnold, 96, passed away on October 26, 2026. A Celebration of Life will be held for her at 11 a.m. on Sat., Nov. 14, at Second Missionary Baptist Church, 818 N. Apperson Way. Visitation runs from 10-11 a.m. at the church.
N.L. Bluitt Jr. Funeral Chapel Inc. was entrusted with the arrangements.
Patricia Ann Short
Patricia Ann Short, age 99, of Kokomo, Indiana, died peacefully Monday morning, November 2, 2026, at her home.
Celebration of Life service will be 2:30 p.m. on Saturday, November 14, 2026, at The ConneXion Global Methodist Church with her son Pastor Emeritus Robert L. Short officiating. Interment will be in the cemetery of Pleasant Hill United Methodist Church in Ozark, Alabama, next to her husband Richard Lowell Short, on Wednesday, November 11, 2026.
Patricia Ann (Bixler) Short was born April 27, 1927, in Louisville, Kentucky, to Lloyd Ellsworth Bixler, Sr., and Gladys Marguerite (Poston) Bixler of Mitchell, Indiana. Patricia was the sister to an older brother Lloyd Ellsworth Bixler, Jr. (Dorothy), and to a younger brother Jack Warner Bixler (Madonna).
Patricia’s parents moved to a home on Highway 31 north of Kokomo after World War II. Her father started a job as payroll manager for the non-military construction contractors at the then-new Bunker Hill (now Grissom) Air Force Base in Miami County.
Patricia graduated from Kokomo High School in 1945 on a Friday and began employment at the Kokomo Delco Radio Division of General Motors the following Monday. She worked in the payroll department and retired in 1986.
Patricia met Richard Lowell Short of Kokomo while he was home on leave from the Merchant Marines. He had enlisted at age 17 and was on duty in the closing months of World War II, moving provisions to Italy. Patricia and Richard wed on March 1, 1947.
Pat gave birth to their daughter Toni Sue Short, on December 29, 1947, in Kokomo. Their second-born was a son Robert Lowell Short, born on March 15, 1951, in Kokomo.
Pat and Dick built a home along Highways 29 and 18 next to the north bank of the south fork of the Deer Creek in 1953. This home in Carroll County was where their two children were raised. They matriculated through the Carroll Consolidated School system. Pat’s parents built their new home next door at the same time and helped raise Toni and Bob. As the children grew, Pat made many of Toni’s clothes for grade school and beautiful formals for school dances during high school. The family enjoyed vacations traveling east of the Mississippi, visiting historical places and military cemeteries.
Pat and Dick worked and saved to begin a restaurant venture in the early 1960s in Kokomo. They started a Henny Penny Broasted Chicken carry-out franchise on the south edge of Kokomo. It rapidly expanded into two locations, one on South LaFountain and one on East Markland. Business grew so quickly that they built a large full restaurant with a second entrance for carry-out only, also on East Markland. When it opened as the American Heritage Inn Restaurant in 1968, the other two locations were liquidated.
It was during the American Heritage Inn era that daughter Toni married James Rodney Myer (1968), and son Robert (“Bob”) married Rebecca Jo Brantley (1973). The American Heritage Inn era also saw Pat and Dick moving to the west side of Kokomo, living there until near retirement.
Pat and Dick planned for another restaurant building and location in the meantime. They started the International Smorgasbord on Kokomo’s East Hoffer Street. This was an evolution in their thinking. They wanted a place that could showcase the gourmet dishes they experienced during their travels to Europe. The building was like an A-frame Swiss chalet.
As they were nearing retirement age, Pat and Dick began their next venture. They each became self-taught experts on collectible glassware and China. Dick became an auctioneer. They traveled to the Midwest and the Southeast to purchase goods for a store they would situate on the “Snowbirds’” main route to and from Florida.
They found an ideal location outside Ozark, Alabama. Dick went south in 1985 to purchase land, clear it, and have two large cabins built on it. One cabin was set near the road for use as “The Glass Menagerie” shop. The second cabin was set back some and was used not only as their home, but also as a show home for Dick to sell log cabins. They, along with Pat’s mother, moved there after Pat’s retirement in 1986.
Pat and Dick found a place to worship and made many friends at Pleasant Hill U.M. Church in Ozark. Pat had a special group of church ladies who met to play Aggravation and have dessert every week for many decades. Pat ran her shop, hosted dinners, researched genealogies, made beautiful award-winning intricate quilts, and collected and organized around 1,800 ladies’ handkerchiefs into 68 binders.
Richard predeceased Pat in 2009. Although she maintained a busy schedule and her friends kept her involved, her loneliness in Dick’s absence and the onset of dementia by around 2014 began to undermine her ability to live independently. Pat was invited to live with Bob and Becca in 2019 in an apartment they made for her. She brought her latest dachshund puppy. Cocoa was the last of many, many dachshunds they enjoyed.
Pat made friends at Sunday School right away in Kokomo and enjoyed weekly trips to church, the movies, the beauty shop, the library, and to restaurants. She enjoyed family gatherings and made sure no one else sat in “her” seat at the table. She lived with Bob and Becca exactly seven years before succumbing to dementia. During the final 14 months, hospice nurses, aides, and workers of Compassus provided additional care for Pat’s health and well-being. They were a true blessing not only to Pat but to the family.
Pat was predeceased by her grandparents, her parents, her brothers and their spouses, two nephews, and her husband.
Pat leaves behind her daughter Toni Sue (James) Myer of Kalamazoo, Michigan, and her son Robert Lowell (Rebecca) Short of Kokomo, Indiana.
Pat leaves behind five grandchildren: Heather Nordlinger, Holly (Chris) Crean, Haley (Steve) Pirochta, Nathan (Ashley) Short, and Noah (Kristine) Short.
Pat leaves behind 20 great-grandchildren and their spouses and five great-great-grandchildren, plus one on the way.
Pat also leaves behind eight nieces and nephews and their spouses and children: Tom, Linda, David, and Jack Jr., Susan, Renee, Maria, and Christine.
Pat and Dick were proud of their generations of family, both before them and after them. This is well-documented in the volumes of genealogical research and history she left behind for posterity.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Hymnal Fund at the ConneXion Church in Kokomo.
Kerry Leonard Barnes
Kerry Leonard Barnes, 75, was born on March 10, 1951, in Dearborn, Michigan. He passed away peacefully, surrounded by his three daughters on November 4, 2026.
Kerry was a funny, stubborn, and hardworking man who had a way of bringing a smile to the faces of those around him. Whether you knew him for a lifetime or crossed paths with him as a stranger, he was always with a smile and never far from a laugh. He found happiness in life’s simple pleasures: a perfectly manicured lawn, a cup of coffee, and a crossword puzzle to keep his mind busy.
Above all else, Kerry loved his family. His three daughters were his greatest pride, and although the opportunity for all of them to be together didn’t come as often as he would have liked, those moments were something he cherished. He was the glue that held his three girls together, and the bond he created between them will continue forever.
Kerry is survived by his two siblings Dan (Julie) Barnes and Dianne (Jeff) Foland, his three daughters Jennifer (Paul) Ortiz, Holly Raue, and Keri (Rafael) Rodriguez; and his seven grandchildren Anthony Barnes, Ava Ortiz, Aiden Ortiz, Ashton Raue, Haley Raue, Rafael (Rafi) Rodriguez, Luca Rodriguez, and Maya Rodriguez.
He was preceded in death by his parents Leonard and Mary Lou Barnes, his grandson Noah Ray Rodriguez, and his beloved dog Dozer.
Kerry leaves behind a lifetime of memories and family who will continue to carry his love and memory forward. His daughters will forever share the stories, laughter, and memories of the man who brought them together.
Dad, here is to a perfectly manicured lawn, a fresh cup of coffee, a crossword puzzle waiting for you, and Dozer by his side.
The family appreciates your love, support, and understanding during this time. Shirley & Stout Funeral Home & Crematory has been entrusted with cremation. Messages of condolence may be left online at www.shirleyandstout.com.