Marlene Rae Hoppes
Marlene Rae Hoppes, 75, of Kokomo, IN, passed away peacefully on Sunday, January 19, 2025, at St. Vincent Hospital, surrounded by her loving family.
Born on June 18, 1949, in Gregory, SD, Marlene was the cherished daughter of the late Joseph and Helen (Pesek) Maska. She married the love of her life, Gregory Hoppes on November 2, 1974, and he preceded her death on January 5, 2022. They shared 47 wonderful years together.
After graduating Colome High School, she attended Radiology School in Aberdeen, SD. Marlene dedicated 30 years of her career as a nursing tech at St. Joseph Hospital, with the last 10 years spent in the OB department before retiring in 2017.
She was always quick to brag about her grandchildren and enjoyed spending time with them. During her free time, she enjoyed gardening, canning tomatoes from her garden, planting flowers, baking (especially with her granddaughter), playing cards and dominoes with friends and family, and reading. She was formerly a member of St. Luke’s United Methodist Church.
Marlene is survived by her devoted daughter Donnelle and her husband Taylor, and her treasured grandchildren Logan Miller and Morgan Miller. Other survivors include: her sister Carol Kindlesparker; nephew Eric (Shannon) Wortman; great nieces and nephew Sadie, Teddy, and Molly Wortman; niece Laura Wortman; and her special friends James and Kelly Kuntz. She was preceded in death by her parents and husband.
Friends may visit family from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. on Thursday, January 23, 2025, at Shirley & Stout Funeral Home, 1315 W Lincoln Road, Kokomo. The funeral service will take place at 6 p.m. with Pastor Jeff Haill officiating. Memorial contributions may be made to Habitat for Humanity in lieu of flowers. Messages of condolence may be left online at www.shirleyandstout.com.
Marilyn J. Meadows
Marilyn J. Meadows, a beacon of generosity and selflessness, peacefully left from this world at the age of 80 and entered into the Eternal Kingdom of her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, in her hometown of Kokomo, IN, on January 19, 2025, with her family surrounding her. Born on December 29, 1944, to Lavon and Mary Williams, she was a lifelong resident of Kokomo, where she cultivated a life filled with love, service, and faith. Well done, good and faithful servant. Enter into the joy of your Lord.
Marilyn's journey began as a daughter and sister within a close-knit family. Though she was predeceased by her parents, her husband Paul Meadows in 2010, her sister Linda Pierson, her sister Lois Meacham, her brother Tommy Williams, and her special aunt/sister Carolyn Vazquez, Marilyn's legacy continues through her loving family. She was a devoted mother to Kimberly (Cory) Carter, Chris Meadows, and Paul "Scott" (Karen) Meadows. She took immense pride in her role as a grandmother, raising her granddaughter Christina (Brad) Conwell as her own and cherishing every moment with her grandchildren Jordan (Mark) Hemmerly, Joshua (Abigail) Meadows, Marcus Meadows, Lacey Meadows, Shainna Meadows, Leah Carter, and Eli Carter. Her great-grandchildren Monica Conwell, Brooklynn Conwell, Bentley Conwell, Landon Hemmerly, Abram Hemmerly, Lennox Hemmerly, Hayes Hemmerly, Evelyn Meadows, Salem Meadows, and Finnley Meadows were the apples of her eye, and she adored them beyond measure.
Marilyn's professional life was marked by dedication and hard work. She spent 30 years in production at Delco Electronics, retiring in 1995. Her colleagues remember her as a steadfast and reliable presence, always willing to lend a helping hand or offer a word of encouragement.
Outside of work, Marilyn was known for her servant's heart. No guest could leave her home without a token of her kindness, whether it was a home-cooked meal or a gift. Her passion for home décor and floral arrangements was well-known, often gracing family weddings and the homes of friends with her artistic touch. Marilyn's ability to transform any space into a warm and inviting environment was a testament to her eye for beauty and her desire to bring joy to others.
A woman of deep faith, Marilyn lived her life as an embodiment of the values she held dear. She was generous to a fault, always putting the needs of others before her own. Her selflessness was not just a trait but a way of life, as she continuously sought ways to support and uplift those around her.
In her final years, Marilyn was blessed with the compassionate care of her loving caretaker, Kelly Spidell, whose dedication and friendship provided comfort and companionship. Their bond was a source of great happiness and solace to Marilyn, and her family is forever grateful for Kelly's presence in her life.
Marilyn Meadows will be remembered as a woman whose heart knew no bounds. Her unwavering generosity, faith, and selflessness have left an indelible mark on all who were fortunate enough to know her. As her family and friends reflect on her life, they will find solace in the countless memories and the enduring love she shared so freely.
Marilyn's life was a testament to the impact one person can have on the world around them. She has left behind a legacy of kindness, service, and love—a legacy that will continue to flourish in the lives of those she touched. Her spirit will forever be a guiding light for her family, a reminder of the beauty and grace that can be found in a life well-lived.
Marilyn J. Meadows' memory will be cherished and celebrated, as her story does not end here but lives on through the lives she shaped, the community she nurtured, and the love she gave without hesitation. She will be deeply missed but never forgotten. Friends may visit the family from noon to 2 p.m. on Saturday, January 25, 2025, at Bridgeway Church, 1401 E. Hoffer St., in Kokomo. Funeral Services will begin at 2 p.m. at Bridgeway Church with Caylob Baldwin officiating. Burial will follow at Crown Point Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to the Gilead House, Bridges Outreach of Kokomo, and Kokomo Rescue Mission Open Arms Women's Shelter. He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things have passed away.
City of Firsts Cremation and Funeral Services by Rose and Geiger was entrusted with the arrangements. www.cityoffirstscremations.com
Sabrena Lynn Gamblin
Sabrena Lynn Gamblin, 68, Kokomo, passed away at 10:52 a.m. Saturday, January 18, 2025, at Community Howard Regional Health. She was born March 24, 1956, in Kokomo to Norval “Pete” and Phyllis (Smith) Partlow. On August 13, 1977, she married Paul E. “Geno” Gamblin, who preceded her in death on May 20, 2021.
Sabrena was a lifelong bowler, a passion she shared with her family. She bowled in many leagues over the years at Heritage Lanes, where she worked as a league manager. One of her passions was sharing her love of the sport as a youth bowling coach. She also enjoyed reading, listening to music, and sports, especially Colts football.
She is survived by: her mother, Phyllis Partlow; children, Melissa (James) Cook and Wes (Jenny) Gamblin; grandchildren, Grace Gamblin, Haydn Hunt, Carter Hunt, and Marianna Hunt; siblings, Dana (Yvette) Partlow, Leschelle (Tom) Harinton, Philip Partlow, Troy (Rhoda) Partlow, and Yolanda Culler; brother-in-law, Mike (Noy) Gamblin; as well as many nieces, nephews, and cousins.
She was preceded in death by her father and husband.
Services celebrating Sabrena’s life will be at 4:00 p.m. Saturday, January 25, 2025, at Shirley & Stout Funeral Home & Crematory, 1315 West Lincoln Road with Rev. Bob Webb officiating. Friends may visit with the family from 1:00 p.m. until service time Saturday at the funeral home. Memorial contributions may be made in Sabrena’s name to the Sabrena Gamblin Memorial Scholarship Fund C/O Heritage Lanes, 1301 W. Lincoln Road. Kokomo, IN. 46902. Messages of condolence may be left at www.shirleyandstout.com.
Mavis Sylvia Willis
Mavis Sylvia Willis, 78, of Kokomo, passed away peacefully at her home on the morning of January 18, 2025. She was born November 13, 1946, in Evansville, Indiana, to the late Harry N. and G. Mildred (Mize) Kellams. On June 12, 1990, Mavis married Windell L. Willis, who preceded her in death on November 16, 2001.
A proud graduate of Evansville Central High School in 1965, Mavis went on to build a career in data entry with EDS. She also worked for Haynes International, Stellite, and Cuneo before retiring. Even after retirement, Mavis remained active in her community by working for the Kokomo Tribune and volunteering with the Gilead House and the Seiberling Mansion.
Mavis was a devoted member of Brookside Free Methodist Church and found great joy in her faith. She loved reading her Bible, playing Scrabble, and watching scary movies. Her warmth and dedication to her beliefs left a lasting impression on those who knew her.
Mavis is survived by her children, Troy A. Surface, Wyndi L. (John) Thompson, and Rita M. Tattersall, as well as numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren who will cherish her memory.
Mavis was preceded in death by her parents, husband Windell, great-grandchild Dylan Cast, and three siblings.
A memorial service celebrating Mavis's life will be held at noon on Saturday, February 1, 2025, at Brookside Free Methodist Church, 190 E. 400 S., Kokomo, with Pastor Jeff Bradley officiating. Friends are invited to visit with the family from 10 a.m. until the time of service at the church. A private burial will take place at a later date in Mt. Hope Cemetery in Peru. Shirley & Stout Funeral Home & Crematory have been entrusted with arrangements.
Thomas “Tom” Lee Stevens
Thomas “Tom” Lee Stevens, 70, of Russiaville, passed away on Sunday, January 19, 2025, at his home, surrounded by his family. He was born on February 19, 1954, in Frankfort, the son of Clarence and Ida (Meeks) Stevens. On November 10, 1984, he married Lesa Martin in Kokomo, Indiana, and she survives.
Tom graduated from Frankfort High School in 1973. He retired from Wabash National as a welder. Tom enjoyed hunting, fishing, woodworking, and fixing things.
Along with his wife of 40 years, Lesa Stevens, Tom is survived by his children Shawn (Alison) Stevens, Lacee (Weston) Burke, and Phillip (Gwen) Cochran, and grandchildren Shelby Cochran, Tyler Cochran, Tessa Garber, Kamryn Garber, Lake Thieke, Kaleigh Burke, and Logan Burke.
Tom was preceded in death by his parents Clarence and Ida Stevens, siblings, and niece Kathy Stewart.
The family would like thank Paradigm Hospice, especially Kelly, Holly, and Sabrina, for their care.
In keeping with Tom’s wishes, no services will be held. Stout & Son Funeral Home has been entrusted with cremation. Messages of condolence may be left online at www.stoutandson.com.