David Steele, Mark Hooker, Kenneth Gulla, Phyllis Claybrook, Cassie Bolinger, Orlando Avila Jr., James Meadows, Herschel Dodd, Joanne Rose, Elizabeth Deniston

David Rowan Steele

David Rowan Steele, a cherished husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and brother, passed away peacefully on February 2, 2026, at the age of 66, in his hometown of Kokomo, Indiana. Born on September 22, 1959, to Freda and William Steele, David’s life was a testament to the values of love, laughter, and faith that he held dear.

David’s journey through life was marked by his unwavering commitment to his family and his Christian faith. He was a beacon of joy and kindness, touching the lives of everyone he met with his humor and generosity. David’s legacy is carried on by his beloved wife of more than 20 years Irene Shockley Steele and their blended family, including his children David R. Steele Jr., Christina Steele, Corey Staley (Tabitha), Ellis Russell, Anthony Smith, and Meranda Smith. His memory will also be treasured by his 10 grandchildren and four great-grandchildren, who brought immense joy and pride to his life.

David’s siblings James, Fred, Michael, Debbie, Robert, Greg, and Danny Steele will fondly remember their brother’s funny anecdotes and loving nature. He was preceded in death by his parents Freda and William Steele and siblings Naomi, Sharon, Ronald Alan, and John Steele, who welcomed him into eternal rest.

An avid outdoorsman, David found solace in the tranquility of nature. He spent countless hours camping and fishing, reveling in the beauty of creation. His love for the outdoors was only matched by his passion for video games, which he enjoyed playing with his children and grandchildren. David’s ability to find happiness in the simple things in life was an inspiration to all who knew him.

David’s faith-filled life was evident in the way he lived each day with purpose and grace. He was a pillar of strength for his family, guiding them through life’s challenges with humor and unwavering support. His presence in their lives was a constant source of comfort and love.

As we bid farewell to David Rowan Steele, we celebrate a life beautifully lived. His funny, loving, and faith-filled spirit will forever be etched in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to know him. David’s memory will continue to shine brightly, reminding us all to cherish the moments we have with our loved ones and to live each day with kindness and gratitude.

A Graveside will take place Friday, January 6, at Albright Cemetery at noon. City of Firsts Cremation and Funeral Service by Rose and Geiger was entrusted with the arrangements. www.cityoffirstscremations.com

Mark Dane Hooker

Mark Dane Hooker, known simply as “Pa” to the three grandchildren who owned his whole heart, passed away on February 1 at the age of 65 after a brief and courageous battle with lung cancer.

A lifelong resident of Russiaville, Mark built his life the same way he built everything else, steady, strong, and meant to last. He worked for Kokomo Schools as a heavy machinery operator and spent years pouring concrete, leaving behind work you can still see and stand on today. He took pride in honest, hands-on work, providing for the people he loved.

Mark is survived by his devoted wife Carol; his daughters Emily and Abby; and his sons-in-law Jake and Tre. He was endlessly proud of his grandchildren Daxton, Molly, and Kacen, who saw him as their biggest fan, loudest cheerleader, and constant source of hugs and laughs. He is also survived by his brother Richard Hooker (Robin) and sister Elaine Watson.

He is now reunited in heaven with his son Jonathan and favorite dog Maggie.

Mark loved the outdoors and over the years felt most at home hunting, traveling with Carol to visit his girls and grandkids, watching football, or spending time with his lifelong friends Doug and Tom. He didn’t need much to be happy: fresh air, family close by, and a good story to tell.

He will be remembered most for how he made people feel. Mark was funny, generous, protective, and deeply loving. His laugh filled a room. He showed up for people when it mattered and worked hard without complaint. He lived simply, cared deeply, and made sure the people around him knew they were loved.

A memorial visitation will be held Friday, February 6, 2026, from 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at The Mayberry, 200 E. Main St., Russiaville, IN 46979. The Mayberry is located next to Stout & Son Funeral Home in Russiaville. Please use the funeral home parking lot and enter the venue from the west side of the building. Stout & Son Funeral Home-Russiaville Chapel has been entrusted with arrangements. Messages of condolence may be left online at www.stoutandson.com. Family and friends are invited to come visit and celebrate a life well lived.

Mark’s legacy lives on in the family he built, the work he left behind, and the love he shared.

Kenneth George Gulla

Kenneth George Gulla, 93, of Kokomo, Indiana, passed away on February 2, 2026. He was born on September 15, 1932, in Swoyersville, Pennsylvania, the son of Adam and Mary (Yanchick) Gulla. Ken proudly served his country in the United States Naval Air Force. He retired from Kokomo GM after many years of employment.

Ken was an avid recumbent bike rider and a member of the Lowriders.

He was a health and fitness enthusiast. On his 90th birthday, he went on an incredible 90-mile bike ride. He enjoyed yard work and loved spending time with his grandchildren.

Left to cherish his memory are his children Kenny (Elin Quinn) Gulla and Brent (Tammy) Gulla; grandchildren Adam, Jake, and Seth Gulla, Ruth Anne Gulla, Jonathan Gulla, Jessica, Megan, Jennifer, and Jamie; stepchildren Connie Lawrence, Sharon Stevenson, and Pam (Steve) Gadberry; and many great-grandchildren.

Ken was preceded in death by his loving wife of many years Delores; his parents; brothers Ray and Henry; and sister Loretta.

Visitation will take place at St. Joan of Arc Catholic Church, 3155 S. 200 W., Kokomo, Indiana on Saturday, February 7, 2026, from 11:00 a.m. until the start of Mass at 12:00 p.m. Entombment will follow at Sunset Memory Garden Cemetery. Online guestbook at www.sunsetmemorygarden.com.

Phyllis J. Claybrook

Phyllis J. Claybrook, 80, a resident of Ocala, Florida, passed away on January 30, 2026, under the care of Cornerstone Hospice. She was born on August 25, 1945, in Carterville, Illinois.

She retired from Lockheed Martin after 13 years. She enjoyed going to flea markets, thrift stores, sewing, reading, and spending time with her fur babies.

Phyllis was preceded in death by her father Thomas Staffey, mother Helen Thomas, brother Roy Staffey, sister Mary Staffey, grandson Joshua Thompson, and daughter Christina Thompson.

Phyllis is survived her son James Thompson of Kokomo, Indiana, daughters Joanne (Michael) Nackoul of Palm Beach Gardens, Florida, and Jeanne Hardister of Ocala, Florida, grandchildren Jennifer Nackoul, Matthew Thompson, Marissa Boone, Sara Collins, and Noah LaPlante, brothers and sisters Julia Bauer, Phillip Staffey, Don Staffey, Ruby Rogers, and Jeanette Staffey, several great-grandchildren, and 16 nieces and nephews.

A visitation will take place at 4:00 p.m. on Monday, February 9, 2026, at Hiers-Baxley Funeral Services 910 E. Silver Springs Blvd, Ocala, Florida 34470. A graveside service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Wednesday, February 11, 2026, at Fernhill Memorial Gardens 1501 South Kanner Hwy, Stuart, Florida 34994.

Cassie Ann Bolinger

Cassie Ann Bolinger, 81, of Kokomo, went home to be with her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on Sunday, January 25, 2026, at Northwoods Village in Kokomo. She was born November 29, 1944, in Harrogate, Tennessee, to Thomas and Mossie Jane (Liford) Lambert. She married Benjamin B. Bolinger on June 1, 1970, and he preceded her in death on November 13, 2015.

Cassie worked in housekeeping at Howard Johnson’s motel in Kokomo for many years, retiring in June of 1993. She enjoyed word search puzzles, jigsaw puzzles, flowers, and spending time with her family. She was also involved with her church, Hillside Missionary Baptist Church in Kokomo.

She is survived by her daughter and son-in-law Jody Lynn and Ron Andrews of Kokomo and siblings Reba Sue Hozey, Lora Mae Burton, and Tommy “Buck” Lambert. Cassie is preceded in death by her parents, husband Ben, brother Edgar White, in-laws Clifford and Alma Bolinger, and brother-in-law Neil Bolinger.

Special “Thank You” to niece Debbie Sherron and friend of the family Lynnette (Minnow) Rehling for taking such good care of her while she was in the nursing home.

Funeral services will be held 1:00 p.m. Tuesday, February 10, 2026, with Pastor Bruce Coats officiating. Visitation will take place from 11:00 a.m. until service time at 1:00 p.m. at Murray Weaver Funeral Home in Galveston. Burial will follow services in Galveston Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to Alzheimer’s Research or plant a tree through the website in Cassie’s memory. Murray Weaver Funeral Home is honored to serve the Bolinger family. www.murrayweaverfuneralhome.com

Orlando Rodriquez Avila Jr.

Orlando Rodriquez Avila Jr. passed into Heaven on February 1, 2026, at 4:27 p.m., during the rising of the Full Snow Moon.

Born on May 18, 1979, Roland was the son of June Avila and Roland Avila Sr.

Roland was a child of God’s beauty in many aspects of his life, including riding his skateboard and performing unimaginable stunts (also breaking many bones), playing guitar and singing (known for random pop-ins at open mics), creating artwork, lyrics and beats, writing poetry, cooking, and designing fashion (including his latest creation, which were his “Avila” Nike shoes). Pieces of his artwork remain throughout the Kokomo area. Rolly’s humor, quick wit, fun personality, and talent made him somewhat of a legend in Kokomo.

Rolly was a good son, brother, and friend. Rolly is survived by his mother June Avila and siblings Missy Harris, Joey Avila, Larry Crull, Rachquel Avila, Jayme Whitaker, Cassy Schultz, and Marsha Avila. He is also survived by numerous nieces, nephews, and friends.

If you met Rolly, you were immediately his friend. Rolly will forever be loved. Rolly will forever be missed.

Rolly was preceded in death by his father, grandparents, two sisters Lynn Smith and Sophia Avila, and a nephew Thomas Crull III.

Rolly had a great sense of humor and the ability to find beauty in all of life. He had an unending positive spirit. May Rolly’s soul now rest in eternal peace. Orlando Rodriquez Avila Jr. We love you, little buddy.

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

James Patrick Meadows

James Patrick Meadows, 36 of Zabcikville, died Sunday, February 1, 2026, at his residence. Services will be held at 1:00 p.m. Saturday at Cook-Gerngross-Green-Patterson Funeral Home in Rosebud. Rev. Rito Davila will officiate. The burial will follow in Barclay Cemetery.

Mr. Meadows was born on March 7, 1989, in Temple, to William and Theresa Martinez Meadows. He graduated from Temple High School in 2007. He worked for CEFCO Convenience Stores.

He was preceded in death by his father William Gregory Meadows.

He is survived by his two children Tanis Meadows and Keira Meadows, both of Kokomo, Indiana, his mother and stepfather Theresa and Scott Ralston of College Station, his grandparents Jesse and Frances Martinez of Rosebud and Bill and Shirley Meadows of Zabcikville, three sisters Jessica Meadows of Baytown, and Bethany Ralston and Emily Ralston, both of College Station.

Herschel Francis Dodd

Herschel Francis Dodd was born on December 10, 1928, in Harlan, Kentucky, to General and Mima (Nelson) Dodd. He passed away on February 1, 2026, at the age of 97. Herschel met and fell in love with Mary Jo Feightner, and they married June 29, 1947, at Courtland Avenue Friends Church, in Kokomo.

He worked in Department 10 at Delco Electronics, retired in 1985, and moved to Florida. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, traveling, but above all, spending time with his family. His hobbies were creating with stained glass and painting. He was an avid poet and always kept a journal. He greatly enjoyed working outdoors on the lawn, hunting mushrooms with the grandkids, and taking care of his flowers. He named his boat after all his grandkids, the “Marshandy.” He even built their first family home himself in 1953. He was a true jack of all trades! He loved taking care of others. His kindness and generosity will be missed by all who knew him. Remember, Dodd loves you!

Left to cherish his memory include his children Marcia (Dennis) Snow and Kevin (Claudia) Dodd; grandchildren Martha (Mark) Latta, Brandy (Mike) Rice, and Shawn (Chris) Snow; and great-grandchildren Madi and Michael Rice, Scout Latta, and Michael and Brian Cobo; and great-great-grandchildren Kaylea, Kallie, and Kami Cobo.

Herschel was preceded in death by his parents General & Mima; wife Mary Jo Dodd; and all his siblings.

Visitation for Herschel will be Monday, February 9, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. until the time of the funeral service, 11:00 a.m. at Ellers Mortuary and Cremation Center, 3400 S. Webster St., Kokomo, 46902. He will be laid to rest immediately following the funeral service at Sunset Memory Garden Cemetery, 2097 W. Alto Rd., Kokomo.

Joanne Lynn Rose

Joanne Lynn Rose, born on June 21, 1951, in Kokomo, Indiana, passed away on January 31, 2026, at her home in Peru, Indiana.

Joanne was a hard worker and a very strong woman whose determination carried her through life. She was stubborn in the best possible way, standing firm in her beliefs, protecting those she loved, and never giving up in the face of hardship. Her strength was matched by her caring heart and quiet resilience.

A devoted mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, Joanne’s greatest joy was found in her family. She was fiercely proud of them and loved them deeply. Her steady presence and unwavering love will live on through those she leaves behind.

Joanne is survived by her daughter Kristie Lynn Rose Adams and son-in-law Robert Adams; her eight beloved grandchildren Alexia Rose, Autumn Rose, Micheal Holloway, Joey Rose, Marlana (Keagan) Devos, Jacob (Matera) Holloway, Brandon Adams, and Jessie Rose; and seven great-grandchildren whom she cherished deeply.

She was preceded in death by her husband Albert Wayne Rose; her son Jonathan Wayne Rose; her parents; and her siblings.

In keeping with her wishes, Joanne will be cremated with no funeral services to be held.

She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.

Elizabeth “Libbi” (Carter) Deniston

Elizabeth “Libbi” (Carter) Deniston, 77, of Kokomo, passed away at 4:15 p.m., Thursday, January 29, at her home, surrounded by her family. She now resides in Heaven with her Lord and Savior and many other loved ones. She was born in Bethpage, TN, on November 19, 1948, the daughter of Erskine and Marie (Reed) Carter. She married Greg Deniston in May of 1967 in Kokomo, IN, and he survives.

She graduated from Sharpsville High School and retired from Delco Electronics after 30 years of service. She loved gardening, growing flowers, and handmade jewelry. She loved to sew and would make clothing for family members. Libbi enjoyed many other crafts and hobbies. She attended The Family Worship Center until she became bedridden several years ago.

Along with her husband Greg Deniston, Libbi is survived by her daughter Rebecca (Chris) Rostron; son Alex Deniston; granddaughter Callie (Michael) Deniston; great-grandsons Patrick and Mack; sister Debbie (Dennis) Dipert; brother Erskine Jr. (Linda) Carter; and sister-in-law Bev (Rick) Agness.

Libbi was preceded in death by her parents and her brother Brian.

The family of Libbi would like to thank her special caregivers Terri and Gayle, along with her Paradigm caregivers Holly, Shelby, Jeff, Dae, and Susan.

A Celebration of Life will take place at a later date in March. Shirley & Stout Funeral Home & Crematory has been entrusted with cremation.