Thomas “Tom” Edward Holden

Thomas “Tom” Edward Holden, 70 years old, of Russiaville, passed away 9:00 p.m. Wednesday May 1, 2024, at his home. He was born in Niagara, New York, on December 25, 1953, the son of the late Frank Mayo and Mary (White) Holden. On January 21, 1979, he married Jean Firsich in Kokomo, IN, and she survives.

Tom traveled around the world with his mom as a young kid while she was on mission trips in Israel, Haiti, and parts of Africa. He was formerly employed as an independent truck driver. He was then the owner and operator for 20 plus years of a tech store named Computers Made Easy. Tom was a member of St. Joan of Arc Catholic Church, Future Farmers of America, and he often assisted with the 4-H Club. He was fascinated with tractors, airplanes, sailing, and horses. Tom will be remembered for being an extremely social person with a great sense of humor.

In addition to his wife of 45 years Jean, Tom is survived by his children, Rachel (Chris) Dodd, Irwin (Brittnay) Holden; grandchildren, Marshall Dodd, Landon Holden, Ava Holden; brother, Frank (Caroline) Holden; and nephews, Michael Holden, Mark Holden.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Frank and Mary Holden; sister, Mary Holden; and uncle, John White.

Friends are invited to visit with the family from 10 a.m. to Noon Wednesday May 8, 2024, at St. Joan of Arc Catholic Church, 3155 S. 200 W. Kokomo, IN 46902. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at Noon on Wednesday at the church with Rev. Fr. Chris Shocklee, the celebrant. Contributions may be made in Tom’s memory to St. Joan of Arc Catholic Church. Stout & Son Funeral Home – Russiaville Chapel has been entrusted with arrangements.

Susan “Susie” A. Elliott

Susan “Susie” A. Elliott, 63, of Flora, went to be with her Lord on Friday, May 3, 2024. She was born on April 23, 1961, in Logansport, to Kenneth C. and Patricia (Bozworth) Perkins. On July 28, 1991, she married David Elliott, and he survives. She was a lifelong resident of Carroll County.

Susie graduated from Carroll High School in May of 1979. In the Argosy ‘79 yearbook was her senior brag. In high school she was a member of Cheer block, Choir CMO, Sound of Music Play, Spanish Club, Sunshine, and Talent Show. Throughout her life she was employed with the Fashion Shop, First National Bank of Logansport (PNC), Bruce Meyer DDS, Steven Her DDS- Flora, Perk’s Inn and the State of Indiana at Cass and Carroll DFR offices.

She grew up in the Sharon Baptist Church. She was a former member of Valley View Baptist Church, Flora. She served the church in many ways. She was WMU president, song leader, Sunday school teacher, among other positions. She was a current member of Burlington Church of Christ and a member of the Beech Grove Cemetery Board.

Susie is survived by her husband, David; mother, Patricia Perkins of Flora; children, Stephanie (Jason) Cull of Young America, and Bradley (Mallarie) Robinson of Kokomo. Her grandchildren adored her. She loved all of them. She spoiled them sometimes just to aggravate their parents. They are Jasmine (Jaden) Brubaker, Zachary Robinson, Kylie Brubaker, Jacob Robinson, Beyla Cull, Jayden Cull, Isaac Robinson, and Luke Robinson. Recently God gave her Maelynn Marie Rainey her great granddaughter. Her sister, Jennette (Brian) Amos, and Cathy (Kevin) Lucas.

She was preceded in death by her father, Kenneth, aunts and uncles, Bill & Shortie Perkins, and Bob & Arnetha Bozworth, and Emma Jean Hutton; and her paternal and maternal grandparents.

She dearly loved her children and grandchildren. She loved Audrey Gaither, Emily (Kyle) O’Brien and family, Jacob (Courtney) Amos and family, Kara (Derrick) Rittenhouse and family, Mary (Matt) Lucas, and Alec (Bailey) Gaither and family, and many nieces and nephews.

In honor of Susie please wear green casual clothes. In memory of Susie please make contribution to Burlington Church of Christ or Valleyview Baptist Church.

A funeral service will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, May 11, 2024, at Stout & Son – Burlington Chapel, 44 Michigan St. with Pastor Dave Osborne officiating. Burial will follow in Beech Grove Cemetery. Friends are invited to visit with the family from 4:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. on Friday, May 10, 2024, at the funeral home. Messages on condolence may be left online at www.stoutandson.com.

Linda Diane (Dickover) Leininger

Linda Diane (Dickover) Leininger, age 82, of Tipton, Indiana, went on to her next great adventure on May 3, 2024, surrounded by family and the music she loved. The consummate teacher, her curiosity, intelligence, music, humor and love touched innumerable lives. If you knew Linda, you experienced great conversation and laughter, key parts of her life. She was generous with her time, talents, and treasure in everything she did.

Linda was born in Tipton, Indiana, to Kenneth and Mary Elizabeth (Jackson) Dickover on February 6, 1942. A farmer’s daughter, she often commented that her only chore as a child was to practice the piano, a talent for which she was well-known. Linda played piano and organ for Hobbs Christian Church; Kemp United Methodist Church, First Presbyterian Church, and West Street Christian Church in Tipton as well as St. James Lutheran Church, Columbus, OH, and many more. She also accompanied countless Tipton students at solo and ensemble contest and played piano for many Tipton High School and Civic Theater musicals.

Linda graduated from Ball State University with a Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education and IUPUI with a Master’s Degree in Education. She loved to teach! She taught at the Hebrew Academy of Indianapolis for most of her professional life. She also taught at St. Mary’s Catholic School, Brownsville, TX, and St. Joseph’s Catholic School, Elwood, IN.

Shortly after marrying Dr. Vernon Leininger in 1990, Linda retired from teaching and continued her professional journey assisting him in diagnostic physics consulting as well as working with him at Hobbs Radiation Oncology Center in Columbus, OH, from which she retired in 2015.

Linda returned to Tipton to care for her aging mother and quickly reconnected with the community, where she again became active at West Street Christian Church, in Bible study and in book club with women whom she truly cherished. She was blessed with amazing neighbors in Tipton, who cared for her when her family was not nearby. Thank you, Kory and Nikki Burton, Emily Nassar, and Ally Compton … you were a blessing to her!

Linda is survived by her daughters: Larrinda Ploughe Wolf (David); Leslie Ploughe VanOverberghe (Tim) and Allison Satchwill Johnson (Adam); bonus son, Brent Bass; as well as stepchildren Marcia Leininger Sigman (Brian), Lisa Leininger Pfeiffer, Jill Leininger Craft Shannon (Jim), Laura Leininger Sottong (Bill) and Jennifer Leininger – wife of Matt Leininger, deceased. Grandchildren: Thaddeus and Emmalie VanOverberghe; Kiera Bass; Hayden, Kyra, and Danielle Johnson; Lisa Wolf Bowen (Matt), Dana Wolf, Matt Wolf; William and Daniel Sigman; Alex, Kate and Jack Craft; Meghan Sottong; Joe and Dion Leininger; Meagan Leininger; Melanie and Evan Harris. Great Grandchildren: Jaxson and Carson Bowen; Abram and Carson Leininger; sister-in-law Karen McConnell Dickover and ex-husband Charles Satchwill. She was preceded in death by her husband, Dr. Vernon Leininger; brother, Bernard “Allen” Dickover; and parents Kenneth and Mary Elizabeth Dickover.

A celebration of Linda’s life will be held at West Street Christian Church on Saturday, May 25, at 1:00 p.m. There will be music (so bring your singing voice) and a party after the service with desserts and fun.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Destino del Reino, a children’s home and school in Honduras, run by Linda’s cousin, Rhonda Jackson. Donations may be made at https://destinodelreino.org/support-destino/donate/ or checks mailed to PO Box 814, Evans, Georgia, 30809.

Young-Nichols Funeral Home is assisting the Leininger family with Linda’s arrangements. Condolences may be left on her obituary page at www.young-nichols.com.

Gregory W. “Greg” Shockey

Gregory W. “Greg” Shockey, 55, of Indianapolis, passed away at 3:28 a.m., April 29, 2024, with his family at his bedside after a long, courageous battle with cancer. Greg was born September 9, 1968, to Terry Shockey and Phyllis (Messersmith) Cupp.

He graduated from Oak Hill High School in 1987. After graduation, Greg went on tour with “Up with People” for 2 years and then started his career in the retail field for several years and later finished his degree to teach and taught school at V.O. Isom Central Elementary School in Greenwood, IN.

Greg was active in the Marion Civic Theater and the Indianapolis Men’s Choir. Greg was an avid reader and loved history and politics. He also loved traveling and his favorite place to visit was London, England. In London, he loved watching all of the royal activities. He also loved watching soccer and enjoying family dinners, especially his mom’s chicken and noodles. Greg enjoyed spending time with his family, especially his nieces and nephews. He was looking forward to his niece, Chloe Leckron’s marriage to Zack Hargreaves in August and will be at the wedding in spirit.

He had two special friends, Peggy Briggs and Marsha Vermillian, that enjoyed going to special events and always enjoying each other’s company.

Greg is survived by his mother, Phyllis Cupp; brother, Terry (Stephanie) Shockey; sister, Beth (Phil) Leckron; stepbrother, Jeff (Kris) Cupp; stepsisters, Debra Jaramillo and Cathy (Chris) Coffey; nieces, Tiffany Randol, Chloe (Zack Hargreaves) Leckron, and Madelyn Shockey; nephews, Brayten (Sarah Hill) Shockey, Alex Leckron, and Luke Leckron; great-nieces, Bailey (Seth Lugar) Randol, Isabelle Randol, and Ivie Shockey; great-great niece, Tinsley Lugar; and two special aunts, Norma (Tom) Ferrazzo and Jacque (Gene) Smith.

He was preceded in death by his father, Terry Shockey; stepfather, Bob Cupp; brother, Steve Shockey; sister, Lori Shockey; niece, Carlee Leckron; grandparents and many aunts and uncles.

A graveside service will be held at 11 a.m., Saturday, June 1, 2024, at Grant Memorial Park, 1606 W. 26th St, Marion, IN 46953. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in Greg’s memory to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital (https://www.stjude.org/donate).

Shirley & Stout Funeral home has been entrusted with cremation. Messages of condolences may be left at www.shirleyandstout.com.

Janet Kay Fox

Janet Kay Fox, a beacon of love and laughter, passed away peacefully on May 6, 2024, at the age of 70, in Kokomo, IN. Born on May 2, 1954, in Martinsville, IN, she was the cherished daughter of Elbert Jay Fox and Lilly Mae Fox, both of whom preceded her in death, along with her beloved grandbaby boy Nolan Haun and siblings Polly and Danny.

Janet's life was a testament to the enduring strength of family bonds and the joy of simple pleasures. She grew up surrounded by her loving siblings Dale, Marcia, Cindy, Warren, Timmy, and Cheryl, all of whom will carry forward her legacy of kindness and humor. Her spirit will live on through her devoted daughter, Amanda Haun, and her adored grandsons, Spencer, Waylon, and Chase Haun, who were the center of her universe.

A proud graduate of Plainfield High School, Janet's work ethic and dedication were evident throughout her career. She spent over 25 years at Harmon Becker in Martinsville, where she formed lasting friendships and left an indelible mark with her generous nature and quick wit. After Harmon Becker closed down, she continued to serve her community by working at Walmart for several years, where her warm smile and friendly demeanor were a comfort to all who knew her.

Janet's interests were a reflection of her loving heart and her zest for life. She found great joy in reading romance novels, losing herself in tales of love and adventure. Her passion for word search puzzles showcased her sharp mind and love for a good challenge. However, nothing compared to the time she spent with her grandsons. Each moment with them was treasured, as she imparted wisdom, shared laughter, and created memories that will be cherished forever.

Those who knew Janet will remember her as a loving, generous, and funny individual. Her ability to light up a room with her humor and to offer comfort with her empathy made her a beloved figure in her community. Janet's generosity knew no bounds, and her legacy of love will continue to inspire those who were fortunate enough to have known her.

Janet's life was a beautiful tapestry woven with the threads of love, laughter, and selflessness. As we say goodbye to this remarkable woman, we take solace in knowing that her spirit will continue to guide and uplift us. Her laughter will echo in our hearts, and her love will remain a guiding light for her family and all who were touched by her grace.

Janet Kay Fox will be deeply missed, yet her memory will be celebrated and held dear by her family, friends, and all who were graced by her presence. Her journey on earth may have concluded, but the impact of her life's story will resonate for generations to come.

City of Firsts Cremation and Funeral Services by Rose and Geiger was entrusted with the arrangements. www.cityoffirstscremations.com

Shanna Jo Ward

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Shanna Jo Ward of Kokomo, Indiana. Shanna's battle with cancer ended peacefully on May 4, 2024, surrounded by loved ones.

Shanna Jo was born to Frederick Columbus Ward and Jo Beth Garner on December 28th, 1969, in Levelland, TX. Shanna Jo was known by family and friends to be free-spirited, charismatic, daring, and passionate. She was driven by her curiosity and wanderlust to try new things, explore new places, and meet new people.

Shanna Jo never met a stranger, and her vibrant fun-loving personality lit up any room she walked into. Shanna's greatest joy was in being Nana to her seven, (and counting) grandchildren where she taught them to color outside the lines and embrace life with curiosity, creativity, and fun.

Shanna was preceded in death by her father, Frederick C. Ward, brother, Freddie Sean Ward, and son, Michael Anthony Sean Ward.

She is survived by her mother, Jo Beth Garner, sister Shelly Gradiska and sister Kelly Caffrey (Raymond Caffrey III) of Mount Juliet, Tennessee, brother, Timothy Ward and brother Carlton Ward of Portland, Oregon.

She is also survived by her three daughters whom she loved dearly and fought for every day, Ashley Wilson (Anthony Wilson Il) of Kokomo, Amber Akers (Benjamin Akers) of Waterville, Maine, and Alexandria Ward of Kokomo, along with her precious grandchildren in whom she found her deepest joy, Nevaeh Wilson, Anthony Wilson III, Aaliyah Wilson, Matthew Akers, Elizabeth Akers, Nathyn Ward, and Azayliah Ward as well as nieces and nephews Merlyn Ayres Jr, Violet Rose Bruce, and Dillon Caffrey.

City of Firsts Cremation and Funeral Services by Rose and Geiger was entrusted with the arrangements. www.cityoffirstscremations.com

Connie Sue Lusher

Connie Sue Lusher, a beacon of love and selflessness, passed away on May 3, 2024, at the age of 73 in Peru, Indiana. Born on April 9, 1951, in Kokomo, Connie's life was a testament to her unwavering devotion to her family and her passion for learning and excellence.

A proud graduate of Northwestern High School, Connie's academic journey did not end with her high school diploma. She pursued higher education with vigor and dedication, earning a Master's degree from Indiana Wesleyan College. Throughout her academic career, she was consistently recognized for her achievements, often making the Dean's List, a reflection of her intellect and determination.

Connie's professional life was marked by her role as a business analyst for Delphi Delco Technologies, where she brought the same level of care and commitment that she did to every aspect of her life. Her colleagues will remember her for her kindness and her ability to inspire those around her with her positive attitude and work ethic.

Beyond her professional and academic accomplishments, Connie's heart truly belonged to her family. She was the loving mother of Tara Renee Lusher, Shanon Elaine Lusher, and the late Jennifer Sue Lusher. Her role as a mother was one she cherished above all else, providing support, love, and guidance at every turn.

Connie's love extended to her siblings, Dulcenia Odom, June Summers, Barbara Hunt, and John Sullivan, who will miss her deeply. She was preceded in death by her Parents, and siblings Lynn Sullivan Batchler, Cathy Sullivan and Donald “Buck” Sullivan. Her presence was a source of comfort and joy within the family, and her absence will be profoundly felt.

The delight of Connie's life was her grandchildren, Brett Harrison Lusher, Raven Brianne Sierra, and Megan Simone Lusher, as well as her great-grandchildren, Adam Harrison Lusher, Emma Marie Lusher, Archer Kingston Sierra, and Aurora Grace Sierra. She took immense pride in their accomplishments and was a constant source of encouragement and support in their lives.

Connie's interests were as varied as they were rich. A voracious reader, she found solace and adventure within the pages of books. Music was another passion, providing a soundtrack to her life's moments, both big and small. But above all, Connie lived for her family. Her support was unwavering, her love boundless, and her dedication to their wellbeing was evident in every action she took.

Those who knew Connie will remember her for her loving nature, her kindness, and her selflessness. She was a woman who gave freely of herself to those around her, expecting nothing in return. Her legacy is one of warmth and generosity, a legacy that will continue to live on through the lives of those she touched.

Connie was preceded in death by her parents, Howard and Madonna Sullivan, and her daughter, Jennifer Lusher. She leaves behind a family who will continue to honor her memory by living out the values she instilled in them.

As we say farewell to Connie Lusher, we celebrate a life well-lived, marked by an unwavering commitment to family, a passion for knowledge, and a heart that was always ready to give. Her light will continue to shine in the hearts of those who loved her, and her spirit will remain a guiding force for generations to come.

City of Firsts Cremation and Funeral Services by Rose and Geiger was entrusted with the arrangements. www.cityoffirstscremations.com