Bernadette Ann Morris, Don Eugene Martin, Ronald Ray Frakes II, Justin Richard Parker, Dennis Lee Clem, Jay D. Oyler, Amanda Elaine Morgan, Larry Carlyle Hurst, Clarence I. Ragan

Bernadette Ann “Bernie” Morris

Bernadette Ann “Bernie” Morris, aged 87, of Kokomo, passed away peacefully, surrounded by her devoted family, on Tuesday, September 1, 2026. Born on March 16, 1939, in South Bend, Indiana, Bernie was the cherished daughter of Lamiel and Martha (Weber) Kline. On April 22, 1995, she wed Thomas D. Morris and shared a loving marriage with him until his death on May 16, 2012.

A 1957 graduate of Stephenson High School in Michigan, Bernie spent the last 15 years of her career at American Tool and Party Rental in Kokomo, working as a seamstress and customer assistant, retiring in 2007. Before that she had worked at J.C. Penney in Kokomo. A faithful Catholic, she actively participated in St. Patrick Church’s community, contributing to the Prayer Shawl ministry, hospitality, Haiti Ministry, choir, and volunteering at the church library. She was also a proud member of the sewing guild.

Bernie leaves behind a loving family: her children Cecilia Dillman (Steve) of Sharpsville, Michelle LaCluyse (DJ) of Kokomo, Ted Goodman (Lawona) of Farmland, and Teresa “Teri” Nichols (Bob) of Tipton. Bernie’s grandchildren are Elizabeth Acord (Cole), Aaron Nichols (Vanessa), Tom Nichols (Robin), Dave Nichols (Marissa), Olivia Myers (Mike), Dakota Goodman (Destiny), and Sierra Hobbs (Tyler). She is also survived by several great-grandchildren. Her siblings include Joan Clark (Gerald) of Menominee, Michigan, and Geralyn Williams (Tom) of Menominee, Michigan.

Bernie was preceded in death by her husband Tom; a son Michael Morris; siblings Claudes Kline, Theresa Thoune, Celeste Kline, Rita Wery, and Marian Ruth; and a great-granddaughter Marian Nichols.

A Mass of Christian Burial to honor Bernie’s life will be held at St. Patrick Catholic Church in Kokomo on Tuesday, September 8, at 12:00 noon, with visitation from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service. Burial will follow at IOOF Cemetery in Rochester at 3:00 p.m.

Young-Nichols Funeral Home is honored to assist the Morris family. Online condolences may be left on Bernie’s obituary page at www.young-nichols.com.

Memorials in Bernie’s honor may be made to Our Lady of the Most Blessed Sacrament Perpetual Adoration Chapel at St. Patrick Church, 1204 North Armstrong Street, Kokomo, Indiana, 46901.

Don Eugene Martin

Don Eugene Martin, 80, of Indianapolis, Indiana, passed away at 10:12 a.m. on Tuesday, August 25, 2026, at Community Heart and Vascular Hospital in Indianapolis. He was born on August 24, 1946, in Kokomo, Indiana, to Carl and Mary (Thompson) Martin.

Don was a 1964 graduate of Western High School and attended Indiana University Kokomo, where he studied law enforcement. He served his country in the United States Army, achieving the rank of SP4.

Throughout his life, Don was known for his strong work ethic and entrepreneurial spirit. He worked as a police officer, including service in Junction City, with the Kokomo Police Department as its first K-9 officer, and with the Howard County Sheriff’s Department (34-77). In the late 1970s, he founded Marmack Cabinets with his brother. He was also a Beretta dealer, operated a snow removal business, and served as Harrison Township Trustee for four years.

Don is survived by his children Stacey Martin, Brady (Star) Martin, and Kira (Dana) Crosby; grandchildren Braden Martin, Brooklyn Martin, Beau Crosby, and Maverick Crosby; many cousins whom he loved like brothers and sisters; and great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother Steve Martin.

Visitation will be held from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. on Tuesday, September 8, 2026, at Stout & Son Funeral Home, 200 E Main Street, Russiaville, IN. A funeral service will follow at 1:00 p.m. at the funeral home, with Billy Martin officiating. Memorial contributions may be made in Don’s memory to a charity of the donor’s choice. Messages of condolence can be made at www.stoutandson.com.

Ronald “Ron” Ray Frakes II

Ronald “Ron” Ray Frakes II, 47 years old, of Kokomo, passed away Monday, August 17, 2026, at his home. He was born in Kokomo, IN, on December 5, 1979, the son of Ronald Ray Frakes and Nancy (Byers) Pyke.

Ron attended Eastern School Corporation. He recently held employment with construction companies. He was skilled at fixing up cars and working with his hands. Ron had a heart of gold and would help anybody who was in need, no matter what. He was the most dependable guy. Ron liked spending time outdoors. He adored his German Shepherd named Loco. who he took everywhere with him.

He is survived by his dad Ron Frakes; sister Lisa (Jerry) McLay; nephews and niece Blake Greenway, Thomas Greenway, and Elizabeth McLay; great-nephew Shawn Greenway; and numerous cousins.

He was preceded in death by his mom Nancy Pyke; his grandparents; and several aunts and uncles.

A memorial service celebrating Ron’s life will be held at 4 p.m., Tuesday, September 8, 2026, at Shirley & Stout Funeral Home, 1315 W. Lincoln Road, Kokomo. Friends are invited to visit with the family from 2 p.m. until the time of the service on Tuesday, September 8, 2026, at the funeral home. Contributions may be made in Ron’s memory to assist with final expenses. Messages of condolence may be left online at www.shirleyandstout.com.

Justin Richard Parker

Justin Richard Parker, of Columbia, South Carolina, passed away suddenly on August 29, 2026, while doing something he truly loved, riding his motorcycle. Born on November 6, 1985, Justin lived his life with passion, loyalty, strength, and a deep love for the people closest to him.

Justin proudly served his country in the United States Army for 12 years, completing four tours overseas. He served as a paratrooper with the 82nd Airborne Division and retired at the rank of Staff Sergeant. His years of service reflected the courage, determination, and commitment that were such a large part of who he was.

After retiring from the Army, Justin found freedom and happiness on the open road. He loved riding his motorcycle, riding with the Sundowners and touring the country with them. Whenever he had the chance, Justin would take his “Queen,” his fiancée Michelle, along for the ride. Michelle was the love of his life, and the adventures and memories they shared together meant the world to him.

In the last several years of his life, Justin dedicated himself to becoming a better man and reconnecting with family and friends. He valued those relationships deeply and worked hard to strengthen the bonds with the people he loved.

Justin enjoyed his retirement building custom snake and reptile enclosures, spending time with his seven dogs and four snakes, riding his motorcycle, and simply enjoying life with the people he loved. Whether it was his family, his animals, his work, or something he believed in, Justin never did anything halfway. He gave 110 percent to everyone and everything he loved and cared about.

Justin was preceded in death by his stepfather John Beck; his grandfather Scotty; his grandparents Linda and Joe Hosea; and his grandfather Carl Parker.

He is survived by his beloved fiancée Michelle Young; his mother Jody Marlow (Greg); his father Richard Parker (Maureen); his grandmother Marilyn Gilman; and his grandfather Butch Beck.

He is also survived by his children Rylee Parker of Colorado Springs, Colorado; Katelynn and Kylee Parker of Kokomo, Indiana; Madison Conradson, Lena Diorio, and Hayden Young of Columbia, South Carolina; Lucas Parker of Lexington, Kentucky; and Bella Flannergin of Germany.

Justin is further survived by his siblings Billie Oldenburg, Nichole Settle (Mike) of Camby, Indiana, Tara Dome (Casey) of New Carlisle, Indiana, Richard “Bub” Parker, Stephanie Beck (Ashley) of Whiting, Indiana, Kaisle Marlow of Carmel, IN, and Jackson Marlow of Elkhart, IN; along with numerous aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family members, and friends who loved him dearly.

Justin touched more lives than he may ever have realized. He will be remembered as a soldier, a fiancé, a son, a brother, a father, a friend, an uncle, and a man who loved fiercely. His strength, humor, loyalty, determination, and enormous heart left an imprint on everyone fortunate enough to know him.

Though his time here ended far too soon, the love he gave, the memories he created, and the lives he touched will remain.

Ride free, Staff Sergeant Parker. Until we meet again.

A visitation will be held on Friday, September 11, 2026, from 1:00 PM- 3:00 PM, in Hahn Funeral Home, 505 W 8th St., Mishawaka, Indiana. Service will begin at 3:00 PM, also in the funeral home. A cremation is set to follow.

To leave an online condolence or to share a memory, please visit www.hahnfuneralhomes.com

Dennis Lee “Denny” Clem

Dennis Lee “Denny” Clem, age 68, passed away on August 20, 2026, in China Grove, North Carolina.

Denny was born on January 2, 1958, in Logansport, Indiana, to the late Fredrick Leroy and Lola Marie Clem. He grew up surrounded by family and lifelong memories in the community where he was raised. A 1976 graduate of Logansport High School, he carried the values of hard work, loyalty, and devotion with him throughout his life. Those who knew him best will remember him as a loving, friendly, and passionate man whose presence brought warmth and familiarity to every gathering.

Denny spent more than 30 years working at Charlotte Motor Speedway, where he became a familiar and respected part of the racing world. His long career reflected not only his strong work ethic, but also his deep connection to the sport he loved so much. Racing was an important part of his life, and he found great joy in being around the track and the people who shared his enthusiasm. He could often be found with his family at the racetrack, where some of his happiest memories were made.

In the 1980s, Denny raced at US 24 Speedway, an experience that remained close to his heart throughout his life. He had a special love for his 1965 Plymouth, and he took great pride in it. He also enjoyed attending hot rod shows, where he appreciated the craftsmanship, history, and excitement that came with classic cars and racing culture. Whether he was watching the action, talking about engines, or simply spending time among friends and family at the track, Denny was in his element when surrounded by the world of racing.

Denny is survived by his children Shawn Clem and his wife Michelle, Jennifer Huff, and Scott Vester and his wife Leslie. He was a proud grandfather to Gavin Clem, Gracie Clem, Berlyn Huff, Lanee Huff, and Weston Vester. He is also survived by his sister Marilyn Noble, as well as several nieces and nephews who will cherish his memory. He was preceded in death by his parents Fredrick Leroy and Lola Marie Clem, his brother Harold Clem, and his sister Carol Smith.

Denny’s life was defined by the love he had for his family and the passion he carried for the things that mattered most to him. He was a man who valued time spent with loved ones, and he made those moments count. His family and friends will remember his kind heart, his easy smile, and the steady, caring way he moved through life. He had a way of making people feel welcome, and his friendly nature left a lasting impression on all who knew him.

Though he will be deeply missed, Denny’s memory will live on in the hearts of those who loved him. His family will remember him for the joy he brought, the stories he shared, and the strong example he set through his devotion to both family and racing. His legacy is one of love, friendship, and passion, and he will be forever remembered with gratitude and affection.

Friends and family may join to celebrate the life of Denny on Sunday, September 20, 2026, at the American Legion Post 60, 828 Burlington Ave., Logansport, IN, from 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Jay D. Oyler

Jay D. Oyler, 68, of Kokomo, passed away at 8:42 a.m. on Monday, August 31, 2026.

Jay was born on October 21, 1957, in Mansfield, Ohio, the son of John Oyler and Judith (Lindsay) Davis. He graduated from Oak Hill High School in 1976. Jay married Nancy (Flatford) Oyler on May 26, 1995, in Sevierville, Tennessee. Together, they raised two kids and shared more than 31 years of marriage filled with many cherished memories.

Jay D. Oyler loved life even when it wasn’t easy, and it often wasn’t easy. He faced more than his fair share of struggles, but he never let it steal his joy. Instead, it made him kinder and wiser. He shared that wisdom with any who needed it. He was always ready to listen, offer guidance, or share a laugh or two. And he sure did love to laugh! Even in the darkest moments, and maybe especially in the darkest moments, he would make a joke or sarcastic comment and lighten the mood in the room. His strong sense of humor stayed with him to the very end.

He took great pride in his family and always put them first. He loved spending time with them, whether it was taking a young Kristen to “the candy store” (the local gas station) or driving Amanda to the mall with the doors off of the Jeep. He was a fun and devoted Papaw to Amelia and Zoe, always taking the time to play games with them or teach them to swim or how to ride a bike.

Beyond his family, Jay made friends with anyone he came across. He loved getting to know people, whether by trading stories (goodness knows Jay had stories) or just chatting about the weather. He could brighten up your day in just a couple of words and leave feeling richer himself.

He loved classic cars and could tell you all about any driving by, partly because he owned plenty of them in his day. His favorite movie was “The Wizard of Oz,” and he watched “A Christmas Story” on repeat every December. He loved the beach, swimming, and fishing. He loved figuring out how things worked and especially loved getting broken things working again. He believed he could fix anything with enough elbow grease, and he was usually right. He was a special kind of dad whom you could call for everything from a stalled car to a broken heart.

He loved deeply and was so deeply loved. He will live on in the hearts of his family and friends. Every time they show kindness to others, choose to laugh in difficult times, or love life despite it all, he is still with us. Goodnight, love you, sweet dreams.

Survivors include his wife Nancy Oyler of Kokomo, IN; two daughters Amanda (Eric) Jamison of Huntington, IN, and Kristen (Victor Taylor) Oyler of Clarkston, GA; two granddaughters Amelia and Zoe Jamison of Huntington, IN; two brothers Jim (Pam) Oyler of Somerset, IN, and Wade Oyler of Marion, IN; two sisters Barb Kinzie of Marion, IN, and Deb Smith of LaFontaine, IN; as well as numerous beloved nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his father John Dalton Oyler, mother Judith Ann Davis, and brother Tom Oyler.

A celebration of life will be held at The Garden House in Marion, IN, on October 9, 2026, from 3:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.

Preferred memorials to Turtle Survival Alliance, in care of Adkins Bailey-Love Mortuary, 35 West Park Drive, Huntington, IN, 46750.

Please sign the online guest book at www.baileylove.com.

Adkins Bailey-Love Mortuary is honored to serve the family of Jay D Oyler.

Amanda Elaine Morgan

Amanda Elaine Morgan, 49, Kokomo, passed away Saturday, August 29, 2026, at Ascension St. Vincent Hospital. She was born July 14, 1977, in Kokomo, the daughter of Donald E. Smith and Deborah “Debbie” Osborne.

Amanda was a 1996 graduate of Kokomo High School. She worked as a sales representative for Lazarus Jewelry Store. Amanda enjoyed crafting, painting, and swimming.

Amanda is survived by her mother Deborah Osborne; father Donald (Dee) Smith; siblings Dawn Wright, Eric (Zola) Smith, Gary (April) Osborne Jr., Christina (JB) Linzey, and Thomas Offutt; nieces and nephews she considered her own children Allison Smith, Alexzander Castillo, Aliva Wright, Johnathon Smith, and Samantha Smith; and longtime friend Matthew (Wendy) Morgan.

Amanda was preceded in death by her maternal and paternal grandparents; stepfather Gary Osborne Sr.; siblings Teresa Osborne and Jeffery Osborne; and best friend Linda Offutt Paul.

No public services will take place at this time. Shirley & Stout has been entrusted with cremation.

Larry Carlyle Hurst

Larry Carlyle Hurst, who died August 25, 2026, was born at the Putnam County Hospital, Greencastle, on October 13, 1938, to Cecil Carlyle and Bessie Henry Hurst.

Larry graduated from Greencastle Schools in 1956. As a member of the GHS FFA Dairy Judging Team, he traveled to the nationals in 1955, where they placed second. In 1956, he won High Individual Judge and the National Championship with a three-man GHS team. He attended the Purdue Agricultural Short Course in Lafayette in 1957. As well as farming, Larry was employed by IBM before working more than 24 years for John Deere dealerships as parts manager. Before retiring, Larry carpentered with Bill Wallace of Wallace Construction in Reelsville.

A life-long faithful member of Deer Creek Primitive Baptist Church, he was ordained as an Elder in 1964. Larry served as pastor for more than 50 years at Deer Creek and Indian Creek Primitive Baptist Church, Bedford, as well as filling various appointments around the Midwest. He was a caretaker of Deer Creek Church and Cemetery and member of the cemetery board.

He married Mary Frances Crodian on August 21, 1960, with whom he had Mark (Debbie) Hurst and Mary Ruth (Tim) Gould, both of Greencastle, Stephen (Julie) Hurst of Tennessee, and Paul (Dian) Hurst of Tipton. Mary Frances preceded him in death in 1985. He married Martha Gloe Craver on July 13, 1986. She survives.

After the family grew into the next generations, he enjoyed the adventures and antics of the grandchildren: Jennifer (Matt) Green of Marshall, Vanessa (Kirby) Boyd of Crawfordsville, Jake (Madison) Gould of Greencastle, Sam Gould (fiancé Kelli Durant) of Wisconsin, Samantha (Robert) Cross, Rebecca (Andrew) Spiegelman, and Matthew (fiancé Autumn Sanguinette), all of Tennessee, Nicole Hurst of Texas, and Larry Michael (Anna) Hurst of Sharpsville. Great-grandchildren include Everly Green, Bentley Chapman, Cole and Allison Boyd, Logan and Mallory Gould, Ivy Cross, and Eliza Jane and Henry Hurst. Also surviving area sister-in-law Marlene Hurst, nieces Samantha Duncan, Kay (Andrew) Genotte, Kate Hurst (Jordan Nichols), and Emily Hurst, nephew TJ Hurst, as well as other relatives and friends.

He is preceded in death by his parents and brothers Jerry Hurst and Terry Hurst.

Besides his love of people and service to them, Larry enjoyed the lessons of nature through traveling, walking in the woods, gardening, tending and observing birds, and savoring the nighttime sky. He named Bryce Canyon as his favorite destination and after retiring enjoyed visiting with fellow travelers on several trips around the U.S.

To honor Larry’s wishes after cremation, a private, immediate family burial will take place at Deer Creek Cemetery. Anyone wishing to honor him may donate to Deer Creek Church at 1979 South County Road 450 East, Greencastle, IN 46135.

Clarence I. Ragan

Clarence I. Ragan, 95, of Sweetser, passed away at 11:57 a.m. on Friday, August 21, 2026, at Wesleyan Health Care & Rehabilitation Center in Marion. He was born north of West Middleton in Howard County, Indiana, on Tuesday, December 2, 1930, to Frank A. and Flora (Shirley) Ragan.

Mr. Ragan and his siblings were admitted to the Moose Lodge’s Children Home (Mooseheart, IL) where he attended school through his junior year, completing his high school education at Greentown (IN) High School, graduating in 1948.

Mr. Ragan married Barbara J. Hiatt of Greentown, July 22, 1949; they moved to Sweetser in 1956. They had two children: Mark A. (Chikako), of Brisbane, Australia, and Abby R. Molino, Frankton, IN. There are four grandchildren Alicia and Wesley (Vi) Ragan, of Brisbane, Australia, and Vincent and Victor Molino of Greentown, Indiana; and one great-grandchild born to Wesley and Vi Ragan, Niko Ragan.

His wife Barbara passed away in June 2008. He was also preceded in death by his nine siblings: four brothers, Ernest F., Lester E., Clyde E., and Louis S.; and five sisters Esther Watson, Helen Carlisle, Marianna Hunt Ewing, and twin sisters Kathleen Schopp Buckley and Katherine Kucharski.

Clarence maintained a membership in the Moose Lodge as an expression of his gratitude for the Moose Lodge’s care for him and his siblings during the Depression years of the 1930s through the early 1940s. For the majority of his working career, he was employed as a printer, working at several printing firms throughout central and north-central Indiana. He was a long-time member of the International Typographical Union, working under union jurisdiction in Kokomo, Indianapolis, and Marion. After retirement, he became the proprietor of the Backburner Press in Sweetser, a working printing museum dedicated to the preservation of letterpress printing technology.

He was his wife’s “go-fer” during her ownership of The Etcetera Gift Shop and The Sweetser Antiques, Etc., 1978 through 2008.

A Protestant, in his doctrinal preference he was a committed Calvinist; arriving at this conclusion through study of the Bible, theology, and church history.

There will be no visitation or funeral services. Mr. Ragan said, “There have been enough lies told about me already.” Burial will at Maple Grove Cemetery in Sweetser, Indiana.

Arrangements are entrusted to Needham-Storey-Wampner Funeral & Cremation Service, North Chapel, 1341 N. Baldwin Ave., Marion, IN.

Memorial contributions may be directed to Grant County Humane Society, 505 S Miller Ave, Marion, IN 46953.

Memories may be shared online at www.nswcares.com.