Jerry Wayne Sellers, James Robert Shepard, Geraldine Joan Walker, Marlys Ann Roegner, Joyce Margaret Mitchell, Latoya Shante Metts, Daniel Joseph Tragesser, Joan Dow
Jerry Wayne Sellers
Jerry Wayne Sellers, 77, of Kokomo, passed away Sunday, August 17, 2025, at his home. He was born in Kokomo, IN, on December 19, 1947, the son of the late Harold Sellers and Mildred (Cox) Sellers-Gingerich. He has spent the last 20 years with his love and significant other, Connie (Edwards) Peterson, and she survives.
Jerry was a 1967 graduate of Eastern High School. He served on his family farm in Howard County for 32 years. He was the co-owner of Sugar and Spice Catering. He formerly drove a mail truck for Gibson Trucking, as well as a school bus for Taylor School Corporation for eight years. Jerry was a loving, friendly, and ornery man. He will be remembered for his smile and for the hours of talking that took place on the front porch or under an old shade tree. In his youth, he attended Mt. Gilead Baptist Church in Hemlock, and he was heavily involved with the Howard County 4-H program. He liked gardening, fishing, and watching John Wayne and other old country/western shows. Jerry cherished his family, his grandchildren, and his puppies.
He is survived by his love and significant other Connie Peterson; his former wife of 25 years Judith (Bennett) Sellers; his children Chris Sellers, and Tara (Cory) Beals; and grandchildren Isabel Beals, Alan Beals, Kassie Sellers, and Kelsie Sellers.
He was preceded in death by his parents.
Friends are invited to visit with the family on Friday, August 22, 2025, from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Hasler-Stout Funeral Home, 112 E. Main St., Greentown, IN 46936. Contributions may be made in Jerry’s memory to the Purdue Extension of Howard County for the 4-H program.
James Robert Shepard
James Robert Shepard, age 61, passed away on Saturday, August 16, 2025. James was born in Kokomo, IN.
A time of visitation for James will be held Friday, August 22, 2025, from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM at Ellers Mortuary & Crematory Center, 3400 S. Webster Street, Kokomo, Indiana 46902. A funeral service will occur Friday, August 22, 2025, at 2:00 PM, 3400 S. Webster Street, Kokomo, Indiana 46902. A graveside committal will occur Friday, August 22, 2025, from 3:00 PM to 3:15 PM at Albright Cemetery, 3910 Albright Rd, Kokomo, IN 46902.
Geraldine Joan Walker
In the heart of Ft. Wayne, where the maples stand tall,
Geraldine Joan Walker, known as Gerry to all.
In ‘76, 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 18th, in 2025,
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 and Jennifer, 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. 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
Marlys Ann Roegner
Marlys Ann Roegner, age 83, of Kokomo, Indiana, passed away on Monday, August 18, 2025. Marlys was born in Indiana.
A visitation for Marlys will be held Saturday, August 23, 2025, from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM at Ellers Community Mortuary & Memorial Center, Inc., 3400 S. Webster Street, Kokomo, IN 46902. A funeral service will occur Saturday, August 23, 2025, from 2:00 PM to 2:45 PM, 3400 S. Webster Street, Kokomo, IN 46902. A committal service graveside will occur Saturday, August 23, 2025, from 3:00 PM to 3:15 PM at Sunset Memory Garden Cemetery, 2097 West Alto Road, Kokomo, IN 46902.
Joyce Margaret “Joy” (Veit) Mitchell
Joyce Margaret “Joy” (Veit) Mitchell, aged 81, of Tipton, passed away peacefully at her residence on August 15, 2025, at 9:50 a.m. with her loved ones by her side. Born on January 27, 1944, in the Kensington section of Philadelphia, she was the daughter of Edward Max Veit and Grace Eva (Simpson) (Haynes) Veit.
Joy was a proud graduate of the Philadelphia High School for Girls and furthered her education at the Episcopal Hospital School of Nursing. She later obtained a Bachelor of Science in Health Care Administration from St. Joseph College in North Windham, Maine. Her passion for nursing defined her career, culminating in her retirement from the Visiting Nurse Service in Kokomo in 2008. Throughout her career, she was devoted to supporting and mentoring fellow nurses, inspiring many to consider pursuing a career in this noble profession.
An avid crocheter, Joy was known for her creative projects and shared her passion through her work. She had a love for music, especially barbershop singing, and was a former member of the Harmony Magic Chorus in Indiana and the Sweet Adelines Women’s Chorus in Philadelphia. In addition to her musical interests, Joy enjoyed reading, traveling, and driving. She was an active member of the Tipton Art Guild, the Red Hats of Tipton, and the Ladies Auxiliary at IU Health -Tipton.
Joy is survived by her loving partner, Amy K. Smith, of Tipton; her daughter Deborah J. Huttick of Philadelphia; her brother David Veit and his wife Karen of Smyrna, Delaware; as well as nephews Glenn Evan and his wife Dora, and Karl David and his wife Jenny, all of Smyrna, Delaware. She was preceded in death by her son Daniel Huttick.
The family wishes to express their heartfelt gratitude to the caregivers at Paradigm Hospice and the home care providers at Heart and Soul Caring as well as Shirley Howell Team who provided support during her final days. Their care made the transition for Joy as comfortable as could be expected. We would also like to thank Joy’s extended family of friends who were so supportive and encouraging through this journey. She loved you all so much.
In accordance with Joy's wishes, there will be no funeral services. Young-Nichols Funeral Home is assisting Joy’s family in their time of need. Online condolences may be made on her obituary page at www.young-nichols.com.
Joy will be remembered for her dedication to her profession, her vibrant spirit, and the love she shared with her family and friends.
Latoya Shante Metts
Latoya Shante Metts, 48, of Kokomo, passed away peacefully at 12:04 p.m. on Monday, August 11, 2025, at Community Howard Regional Hospital. She was born on February 6, 1977, in Chicago, Illinois, to Sylvia (Fox) Morris and Jackie Steele.
Latoya was a licensed bartender who poured more than drinks—she poured laughter, love, and light into the lives of everyone she met. She enjoyed walking, music, cooking, and styling hair, and she had a funny and unforgettable love for socks. Known for her great sense of humor and her big heart, she could brighten even the hardest days.
She grew up in the church and lived her life with faith, love, and kindness. Latoya will always be remembered for the laughter she shared, the encouragement she gave, and the love she poured into her family and friends.
She leaves to cherish her memory her children Aquavius, Auvelle, and Akyrah Metts; siblings Roemond Fox, Camilla Metts, Lakesha (Kerwin) Bobo, Tanika Steele, and James Smith; grandmother Rosie Fox; special cousins Katrina (Rodrick) Owensby, Chanda Turner, Stacy Fox, Trisha Fox, Shamara Gates, and Mercedes Mile; along with a host of nieces, nephews, and her special friend Paul Beckless.
She was preceded in death by her mother Sylvia Morris; father Jackie Steele; brother Jackie Steele Jr.; sister Raven Smith; and great-great-grandmother Elnora Bell.
Latoya will forever be remembered for her laughter, her faith, and the light she brought into the world.
The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters. He restoreth my soul.” — Psalm 23:1-3
Daniel Joseph “Danny” Tragesser
Daniel Joseph “Danny” Tragesser, 76, of Tipton, passed away on Monday, August 4, 2025, at The Gathering Together hospice in Plainfield. Danny was born on July 26, 1949, in Tipton to Urban & Elizabeth “Bib” (Mundell) Tragesser.
Danny worked at several places during his lifetime, including PL Porter in Westfield and The Crossing in Tipton. He was a graduate of Tipton High School in the Class of 1967. Danny was a huge fan of the Hoosiers basketball team and the Chicago Cubs. He really enjoyed visiting Chicago. He was also a fan of roller coasters and made several trips to Cedar Point. Danny loved to work outside around his house and in his garden. He also had an enormous love for animals.
Survivors include one daughter Gina “Renee” Overly of Kokomo, one granddaughter Isabella S. Hiatt, and one brother Dick Tragesser and wife Dee Dee of Tipton.
He was preceded in death by two sisters Lois Ryan and Kay Ann Winslow.
Danny wanted to be cremated, and private family services will be held with burial in St. John’s Cemetery. Young-Nichols Funeral Home is assisting the family with Danny’s services and condolences for his family may be left on his obituary page at www.young-nichols.com.
Memorial donations in honor of Danny may be made to The Gathering Together hospice, 147 N. Center Street, Plainfield, Indiana, 46168 or to the Humane Society of Tipton County, P.O. Box 237, Tipton, Indiana, 46072.
Joan (Funke-Blackburn) Dow
With heavy hearts, we share the passing of Joan (Funke-Blackburn) Dow, who left this world on Saturday, March 8, 2025, at 8:32 p.m. Born on June 27, 1936, in Tipton, Indiana, to Joseph C. and Edna M. (Vair) Funke, Joan was raised in a proud generational farming family, instilling in her a deep love of hard work and resilience.
Joan’s greatest joy in life was her family. She is survived by her eight children — William, Theresa, Richard, Julie, Cheryl, Michael, Jerrianne, and Shawn — along with 13 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren. She is also survived by her sisters Doris, MaryAnn, Martha, and Madonna, but was preceded in death by her brother William “Bill.” She passed peacefully in California, surrounded by the love of most of her children, a testament to the deep bonds she nurtured throughout her life.
She was a member of St. John’s Parish and attended high school at the revered St. Joseph Academy. During this time, she met Darrell L. Blackburn, whom she married after graduation. Joan was also one of the many who generously contributed to the rebuilding of St. John’s Church in recent years, a reflection of her enduring faith and dedication to her community.
To know Joan was to know a woman of strength, generosity, and an unmatched zest for life. She spoke her mind with honesty, welcomed everyone with open arms, and worked harder than anyone. Above all, she loved fiercely, and that love will live on in the hearts of those who knew her. While words cannot express the void her absence leaves, we find comfort in knowing that she is now "God’s Beautiful Angel."
A graveside service for Joan will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, September 13, at St. John's Cemetery. In honor of her memory, the family asks that, in lieu of flowers, donations be made to the Alzheimer's Association or to your local Humane Society/ASPCA; causes close to her heart.
She will be deeply missed but never forgotten.
Young-Nichols Funeral Home is honored to be assisting Joan’s family. Online condolences for her family may be left on her obituary page at www.young-nichols.com.