Obituaries, November 9, 2025

Written on 11/09/2025


Randall “Randy” Lee Roberts, Mark Edward Dodge, Robert E. Oliver Jr., Armand D. Patterson, Marilyn Raines, Christina Lynn Callaway, Edith “Edie” Johns, Patsy Joan “PJ” Kirkendall

Randall “Randy” Lee Roberts

 Randall “Randy” Lee Roberts, 66, of Kokomo, passed away on November 2, 2025, at his residence. He was born on August 5, 1959, in Galveston, Indiana, to the late Robert V. Roberts and Marsha D. (Roberts) Cornett.

Randy was passionate about working on cars. He also enjoyed watching football and spending time with his friends.

Randy is survived by his sister Debra Roberts Grossbach; brother Don “Donnie” (Kathy) Roberts; sister Lorinda Roberts; and many cousins, nieces, and nephews.

Preceded in death are his parents.

Memorial contributions may be made in Randy’s memory directly to the Kokomo Rescue Mission.

There will be time of visitation for Randy on Tuesday, November 11, from 10:00 AM until 12:00 PM at Ellers Mortuary and Cremation Center, 3400 South Webster Street, Kokomo, Indiana.



Mark Edward Dodge

Mark Edward Dodge, 63, of Fort Myers, FL, passed away on November 3, 2025, at his home. He was born on April 9, 1962, the son of Robert and Suzanne (Holst) Dodge. On September 1, 1984, he married Marsha Mitchell, and she survives.

Mark graduated from Purdue University in 1985 and received a bachelor’s degree in pharmacy. He worked as a pharmacist for 40 years. Mark enjoyed walking on the beach with his wife, talking about sports and stocks with his sons, and loved the outdoors and warm weather. He loved to drive his Jeep Wrangler around “safari style” in the hot Florida weather. Mark enjoyed riding bikes with his family around Sanibel, the Monon Trail, and on the Chicago lakefront to Cubs games. He liked to cook breakfast outside on his griddle and go golfing with his sons as well. He liked to watch his favorite teams — Purdue, Colts, and Cubs — and loved to watch old Westerns as well. Most of all, Mark loved his family and spending time goofing around with his kids and grandkids and supporting them at sporting events and activities.

Along with his wife Marsha, Mark is survived by his children Todd (Heather) Dodge and Dirk (Emily) Dodge; grandchildren Dominic, Vincent, and Veronica Dodge; mother Suzanne (William) Dodge Knopf; and sister Cathy (Tim) Welsh.

He was preceded in death by his father Robert E. Dodge and grandparents.

A funeral service will be held on Thursday, November 13, 2025, at 11 a.m. at Stout & Son Funeral Home, 200 E. Main St. Russiaville, IN with Pastor Jeff Harlow officiating. Burial will follow at Russiaville Cemetery. Friends are invited to visit with the family from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Wednesday, November 12, 2025, at the funeral home. Messages of condolence may be left at www.stoutandson.com.



Robert E. Oliver Jr.

Robert E. Oliver Jr. passed away November 4, 2025, at 3:30 a.m. at his home with his wife by his side. Robert was born August 12, 1943, in Noblesville, Indiana, to his late parents Othella Farmer and Robert E. Oliver Sr.

Robert married Lilly Gillis on February 11, 1967, who survives. In his younger years, dad worked for his Uncle Jim Farmer as a carpenter. He took this knowledge to build his own house north of Kokomo, IN. Dad enjoyed hunting, fishing, and also joined a small Christian group, Christ for the World, where he made lasting friendships who became family instead of friends. Due to illness, dad and mom moved to Ellenton, Florida, in 1999.

He is survived by his wife Lilly; daughter Shannon (Bruce) West; brother Michael Oliver; half-brothers Clee and Brent Oliver; grandchildren whom he loved dearly and would do anything for Breannah Vogel, Kameron West, and Kristin West; and great-grandchildren Sylis, Kenzie, Kaydince, Hunter, Greyson, and Aurora.

Dad never let the challenges of being blind stop him. He pressed forward and relearned carpentry a new way even through being blind. He made bowls, cutting boards, knives, oil lamp holders, and shelves. He also printed literature for people to tell them about our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

Dad wouldn’t want us to be sad. He would want us to press forward knowing one day we would be together again. Dad’s favorite song was “What a day that will be, when my Jesus I shall see, when I look upon his face, the one who saves me by his grace, when he takes me by his hand and leads me to the Promised Land, what a day, glorious day that will be.”

A graveside service will be held at Crown Point Cemetery on Thursday, November 13, 2025, at 2:30 p.m. with Pastor Joe Coffin officiating. Friends are invited to visit with the family from 1 p.m. to 2 p.m. at Shirley & Stout Funeral Homes & Crematory, 1315 W. Lincoln Road, Kokomo. Memorial contributions may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association, alz.org, or to the Indiana School for the Blind. Messages of condolence may be left at www.shirleyandstout.com.



Armand D. Patterson

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Mr. Armand D. Patterson, who departed this life on Tuesday, November 4, 2025, at the age of 47.

Born on March 20, 1978, Armand lived a life marked by kindness, resilience, and quiet strength. His presence touched many, and his legacy will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.

We invite all who were blessed by Armand’s life to keep his memory alive through acts of compassion and remembrance. May he rest in eternal peace.

Visitation for Armond will take place Sat., Nov. 15, from 9-11 a.m. at Mt. Pisgah Missionary Baptist Church, 1599 E. Sycamore St. A funeral service for Armond will be held on Sat., Nov. 15, from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. at Mt. Pisgah.



Marilyn Raines

Marilyn Raines, age 96, of Kokomo, passed away peacefully at 2:01 p.m. on Thursday, November 6, 2025.

Born on June 18, 1929, Marilyn was the daughter of Thomas and Opal Newby. She married George Raines, in 1948, and together they had four beautiful children. She was a kind soul who lived for her family and supported them at every opportunity. Marilyn was known for her incredible cooking and baking, especially her beloved peach pie. She loved playing cards, especially rummy, cheering her grandkids on at every sporting event, and enjoying the outdoors. She will be greatly missed by her son Bruce (Debbie) Raines and her daughters Cindy Raines, Natalie (Tim) Raines, and Karen (Brian) Catt. Her four grandchildren were her pride and joy: Scott (Haley) Raines, Steve (Anna) Raines, Ryan Catt, and Hannah (Candis) Catt. She also had 12 wonderful great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents Thomas and Opal Newby, her brother Bob Newby, and her husband George Raines.

Marilyn spent the last few years as a resident of Legacy at Waterford Place. The family would like to thank the staff for taking great care of her during her last years of life. They would also like to thank the nurses at Compassus Hospice for her final months of care. They are truly caring people who give so much to their patients and residents.

To honor the life and legacy of Marilyn, the family will be having a celebration of life service on Saturday, November 15, 2025, at 1:00 p.m., at Ellers Mortuary, 3400 S. Webster St., Kokomo, IN 46902. Friends may greet the family two hours before the service begins.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Marilyn’s name to the charity of your choice.



Christina Lynn Callaway

Christina Lynn Callaway, a beacon of love and creativity, passed away peacefully on November 5, 2025, in Peru, Indiana. Born on May 24, 1973, in Ayer, Massachusetts, to Cynthia Selleck and Richard Callaway. Christina’s life was a tapestry woven with passion, generosity, and an unwavering commitment to her family and community.

Christina was a proud graduate of Logansport High School, class of 1991. Her spirit of service led her to volunteer at The Scratching Post in Peru, where she found joy in caring for animals and contributing to the well-being of her furry friends. Her love for excitement and community involvement was evident through her work at the Baja Carnival and at the Kokomo Speedway Concessions.

Christina was a strong woman who carried her faith spreading warmth and love to all those she encountered. Her interests were as diverse as her generous heart. An avid collector, she surrounded herself with art and objects that sparked her creativity. Christina’s love for movies was infectious, and she could quote lines from her favorites with a dramatic flair that brought laughter and joy to those around her.

Cooking was another of Christina’s passions, and she delighted in preparing meals for her children, always ensuring they felt the warmth of her love through her culinary creations. Her mischievous side often led to playful trouble, but it was this same spirit that made her a vibrant and unforgettable presence in the lives of those she touched.

In her younger years, Christina was an enthusiastic reader, immersing herself in the worlds created by Stephen King. Her desire to constantly improve her home and décor reflected her belief in the importance of creating a nurturing and beautiful environment for her family. Christina’s love for her dogs was boundless, and her dedication to animal welfare was a testament to her compassionate nature.

Christina’s life was enriched by the time she spent at the cat shelter, where she extended her kindness and care to creatures in need. She was known for her willingness to go the extra mile for strangers, embodying the true spirit of selflessness. Never one to shy away from speaking her mind, Christina’s honesty and directness were matched only by her loving and passionate approach to life.

She leaves behind a legacy of love and devotion in her children, Jordyn Rossi (Chelsie) and Lily Smith (Ian), and her cherished siblings, Michael Callaway (Deann), Zachary Selleck, Justin Selleck, Erin Elderidge, Jimmy Gordon, and Mark Gordon. Christina’s memory will be forever treasured by her loyal companion, Cooper, who brought her immeasurable comfort and companionship.

Christina was preceded in death by her father, Carl Selleck, her beloved daughter, Jada Rose Smith, and her life partner and soulmate, James “Jamie” Smith, as well as her dear grandma Rhody. Her spirit will continue to live on through the countless lives she touched with her generosity, passion, and love.

Christina Lynn Callaway’s journey on this earth may have come to a close, but the impact of her vibrant spirit will continue to resonate with all who had the privilege of knowing her. Her laughter, her courage, and her unwavering commitment to her family and community will be deeply missed but never forgotten.

Please in lieu of flowers please consider donating towards The Scratching Post in memory of our mom. City of Firsts Cremation and Funeral Services by Rose and Geiger was entrusted with the arrangements. www.cityoffirstscremations.com



Edith “Edie” Johns

Edith “Edie” Johns passed away peacefully, surrounded by family, on November 5, 2025, at the age of 89. She was born on July 21, 1936, in Dendron, Virginia, to the late Martha and Abraham Johns.

Edie’s life was one of love, laughter, and devotion to family. She married Richard Austin in 1960, and together they made their home in Jamaica, New York, where she became a highly sought-after beautician. She had a gift for making everyone who sat in her chair feel seen, cared for, and beautiful.

Outside of work, Edie was a lifelong sports fan and could often be found cheering for her favorite teams—the New York Giants, San Antonio Spurs, and New York Mets—as well as her favorite golfer Tiger Woods and tennis champions Venus and Serena Williams. If a game was on, you could count on Edie to be watching. When she wasn’t watching sports, she could often be found pressing her luck at the casinos, adding a little extra excitement to life.

For all who knew her, Edie will be remembered for her sense of humor, radiant smile, generous heart, and her signature phrase to those she loved most: “I love you more.”

She leaves to cherish her memory her devoted daughter-in-law Virgie Wright-Johns; her loving granddaughter Ashley Johns; her step-grandson Danny Graham (Marina); her adored great-grandchildren Carson Washington, Cameren Washington, and Carter Washington; as well as many nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews, extended family, and dear friends who will forever treasure her memory.

There will be no public services at this time.



Patsy Joan “PJ” Kirkendall

Patsy Joan “PJ” Kirkendall, 91, of Russiaville, passed away on Wednesday, November 5, 2025. She was born on September 3, 1934, the daughter of Floyd D. and Pearl J. (Jones) Shockley. She was raised in Indianapolis and attended Trinity Lutheran School before graduating from Warren Central High School in 1952. While in Indy, she worked retail at L.S. Ayres and in the office at American States Insurance.

On September 29, 1956, she married Robert Eugene “Bob” Kirkendall of Kokomo, IN, who she’d met at a Rural Youth Conference the year prior. She left city life behind to be a devoted farm wife.

Prior to starting a family, Patsy worked as a legal secretary in Kokomo. She was active in Beta Sigma Phi sorority and Westernnettes Extension Homemakers to service her community and foster friendship. After having children, Patsy devoted herself to caring for her family, always ready to step in and support her husband and children in whatever way was needed. When the family was raising veal, she advanced their efforts by promoting veal consumption through the American Veal Producers, manning taste testing booths at the Indiana State Fair. During planting and harvesting seasons, she served as a back-up Western School District school bus driver for Bob, ensuring no responsibility went unmet. Alongside her many contributions, she found personal joy in playing the piano and organ, bringing music into both her home and heart.

Following Bob’s passing in 1983, Patsy faced the challenges of being an older single mother while continuing to support her family. Nonetheless, she approached life with a resilient spirit, working in a medical office, as a restaurant hostess, and as a drugstore clerk — each new role taken on with the purpose of supporting her family in every way she could.

Alongside maintaining her livelihood, she returned to her roots by joining Redeemer Lutheran Church, participating in the Choraliers and hand bell programs. She also volunteered to teach hand bells at a senior center and to a church youth group. Beyond her musical involvement, she was active with the Howard County Historical Society and contributed to events such as the Seiberling Mansion Centennial celebration.

After retiring she continued to enjoy her musical interests and picked up bicycling. She participated in group rides around the state of Indiana and joined the Indiana Rails to Trails efforts to bring more bicycle path opportunities to Hoosiers across the state.

Later in life she joined the Wellbrooke of Kokomo community where she was well loved and cared for by staff and other residents. The Lutheran Church of Our Redeemer congregation and school kids would visit and send her notes to provide their love and support.

Patsy made our family and community a better place. We are thankful for that and will love her forever.

She is survived by her children Bret (Tonya) Kirkendall, Beth (Mark) Grimes, and Bradley (Shelly) Kirkendall; grandchildren Eric (Cathy) Kirkendall, Brittnie Kirkendall, Alexandra (Matt) Paras, Calyn Grimes, Braden Kirkendall, Connor Kirkendall, and Caroline Kirkendall; and four great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents, husband Bob Kirkendall, and infant sister Sarah Jane.

A private family service will be held and her burial will be at Sunset Memorial Garden Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations in memoriam can be made to Trilogy Health Services Foundation or Redeemer Lutheran School.