Max Freeman Coombs, Chelsia Van Lowdermilk, Jackie L. Jones, Donna J. (Farrer) Randolph, Kay Sue Jordan (Kennedy), Dorena Lee Taylor, Angela Riley, Phyllis Irene Spiegel, Kris John Daugherty

Max Freeman Coombs

Max Freeman Coombs passed away peacefully in his bed on December 19, 2025, at 1:18 a.m., surrounded by the love of his family.

Max was born on October 22, 1938, to the late John and Eva (Feller) Coombs. He was preceded in death by his brother John.

A proud graduate of Western High School’s Class of 1954, Max was fondly remembered for his quick wit and the phrase classmates never forgot: “Got your Chemistry done?” He later earned his bachelor’s degree in Accounting, a career path that suited his sharp mind, discipline, and attention to detail.

On June 21, 1978, Max married the love of his life Martha “Kay” Bogue. Together they raised their children: Jason (Barb) Coombs, Ben (Carla) Coombs, Paige Coombs, Michael (Kim) Coombs, Janelle (Daniel) McKinney, Susie (Richard) Krallman, Eric (Carol) Coombs, and Terri (Brian) Chapel. Their years together were filled with love and family until Kay’s passing on April 9, 1999.

Max retired from Chrysler in 1995 after 30 years of dedicated service as a Quality Assurance Supervisor. Following retirement, he fulfilled a lifelong dream by moving full-time to his lake house in Monticello. There, Max found peace and happiness—sitting on the deck watching the water, or out in his boat enjoying the lake he loved so much.

Max was never without something to read or a dictionary close by. He also enjoyed watching classic black-and-white movies, the Colts play, playing Scrabble, and for many years had enjoyed weekly Bridge games at the Kokomo Senior Citizens Center on Tuesdays. These moments brought him joy and connection and reflected his thoughtful, steady nature.

Max cherished the simple pleasures of life. He loved being a grandpa to many grandchildren and eventually being great-grandpa to several.

Above all, Max was devoted to his family. He will be remembered for his warmth, quiet humor, and the deep love he shared with those around him. His legacy lives on through the many lives he touched and the memories held close by all who knew and loved him.

A funeral service will be held at 12 p.m. on Friday, December 26, 2025, at Stout & Son Funeral Home, 200 E. Main Street, Russiaville, with Pastor Jason Grant officiating. Burial will follow at Sunset Memory Garden Cemetery. Friends are invited to visit with the family from 10 a.m. until the time of the service at the funeral home. Messages of condolence may be left at www.stoutandson.com.

Chelsia Van Lowdermilk

Chelsia Van Lowdermilk, 97, passed away peacefully at home on December 21, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of hard work, generosity, and quiet service to others.

He was born on March 1, 1928, in Clay City, Indiana, to Tom and Bertha (Langford) Lowdermilk. On July 5, 1947, he came to Kokomo, the community that would become his lifelong home and the place where his impact would be deeply felt.

Chelsia began his working years at Dirilyte and the Ice Factory before following his calling and founding Lowdermilk Electric in February of 1957. He devoted more than 60 years to the electrical trade, wiring countless businesses throughout Kokomo, including the first 10 Ponderosa restaurants. His work was known not only for its quality, but for the integrity with which it was done.

A natural teacher, Chelsia took great pride in mentoring young men in the trade and sharing his knowledge. He was a strong supporter of local youth, sponsoring sports teams—especially Little League—and supporting generations of players. If someone was in need, Chelsia was always willing to lend a hand, never seeking recognition, only the satisfaction of helping others.

Those left to cherish his memory include his beloved wife Mary Jane Lowdermilk; his children Ruth (Brent) Foster, Tom Lowdermilk, and Mike (Glenda) Lowdermilk; stepson Kevin Conrad; six grandchildren Jamie (Joe) Shidler, Ian (Brooke) Lowdermilk, Holly Foster, Jody Mygrant, Sherry Foster, and Morgan (Arron) Stump; 13 great-grandchildren; and two great-great-grandchildren. Carl and Darl Simpson were lifelong friends with Chelsia.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his son Mike Lowdermilk; and his sisters Grace Retz, Angela Riggs, Deana O’Banning, and Louise Black.

During his final days, Chelsia received excellent and compassionate care from the nurses at Paradigm. The family extends heartfelt gratitude to Stephanie, Shirley, and Molly for their kindness, dedication, and comfort.

Chelsia Van Lowdermilk will be remembered as a husband, father, and grandfather, a respected tradesman, and a man whose life was defined by service to his community and anyone who needed a helping hand. His legacy lives on in the lives he touched and the work he left behind.

A funeral service will be held at 1:00 p.m. Friday, December 26, 2025, at Shirley & Stout Funeral Home & Crematory, 1315 W. Lincoln Road, with Pastor Terry Russell officiating. Burial will follow in Albright Cemetery. Friends are invited to visit with the family from 11 a.m. until time of service. Memorial contributions may be made in Chelsia’s memory to the Kokomo Area Career Center for the electricians’ program. Messages of condolence may be left online at www.shirleyandstout.com.

Jackie L. Jones

Jackie L. Jones, 85, of Galveston, went home to be with the Lord at 4:50 a.m. Sunday, December 21, 2025, at Chase Center in Logansport. He was born August 9, 1940, in Logansport, Indiana, to Jack A. and Dorothy D. (Spencer) Jones. He married his high school sweetheart Barbara E. Van Briggle on June 5, 1960, in the Baptist Temple in Logansport, and she survives. Together they recently celebrated their 65th wedding anniversary.

He received his bachelor’s degree from Indiana University Kokomo and served his country in the United States Army as an MP. He later retired from Chrysler Corp. with many years of service. He was a member of the Galveston Masonic Lodge, the Shriners, and the Baptist Temple in Logansport where he served as Deacon. He enjoyed firearms, photography, cooking, traveling, and antique fire trucks.

Surviving family include his wife Barbara and his children Beth (Rick) Johns of Walton, Laura (Ryan) Franscoviak of Royal Center, and Steve (Teresa) Jones of Massachusetts. Surviving grandchildren are Kristopher Johns, Ryan Johns, Lance Rohrabaugh, Coty Rohrabaugh, Caleb Franscoviak, Stephanie (Brian) Mumpower, Kristi Prichett, and Michelle (Nate) Hicks. He is also survived by several great-grandchildren, one brother William (Judy) Jones of Lebanon, and sister-in-law Patricia (David) Kleinmaier of North Carolina. Jackie is preceded in death by his parents and one great-grandchild.

Visitation will be held from 12:00 noon until service time at 2:00 p.m. Saturday, December 27, 2025, at Murray Weaver Funeral Home in Galveston with Pastor Ryan Carter officiating. Jackie will be laid to rest in the Galveston Cemetery following services. Murray Weaver Funeral Home is honored to serve the Jones family. www.murrayweaverfuneralhome.com

Donna J. (Farrer) Randolph

Donna J. (Farrer) Randolph, 92, of Logansport, passed away Sunday, December 21, 2025, at Miller’s Merry Manor.

Born August 12, 1933, in Logansport, IN, to the late Paul F. and Evelyn (Howell) Farrer, Donna earned her bachelor’s degree and worked at Logansport Memorial Hospital as an X-Ray Technician until her retirement

Donna loved to travel and to be anywhere the sun was. She was a member of the Mary Dykeman Guild.

She is survived by her niece Kimberly J. (Brian) Chapman of Carmel, and nephews Kevin (Karen) Wilson of Walton, Kory (Mary) Wilson of Walton, and Kurt (Janis) Wilson of Galveston.

She is preceded in death by her parents, one sister Linda Wilson, and a daughter Toni L. Randolph.

A celebration of life will be held on Saturday December 27, 2025, at 1:00 p.m. in the Gundrum Funeral Home with Pastor Doug Thomas officiating. A burial will follow in St. Johns Cemetery.

A visitation will be held from noon until time of services on Saturday at the funeral home.

You may sign Donna’s guest book and send online condolences to the family at www.gundrumcares.com

Kay Sue Jordan (Kennedy)

Kay Sue Jordan (Kennedy), born December 15, 1939, passed away surrounded by the love of her family on December 21, 2025. Kay lived a life rooted in devotion—to her family, her faith, her work, and her community—and she will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

She was preceded in death by her parents Edith Pearl Kennedy and Robert Kennedy; her brother Gary Kennedy; and her husband Larry L. Jordan.

She is survived by her sister Cheryl Nettrouer and her three sons Brad (Chris) Jordan, Brent Jordan, and Brian (Beth) Jordan. Kay leaves behind a legacy of love through her grandchildren Casey Jordan, Michael (Alex) Jordan, Matt (Jenna) Jordan, Jenna Jordan, Macey Jordan, and Zane Jordan. She was a proud great-grandmother to Kennedy Jordan, Annie Jordan, John Robert Jordan, Walker Jordan, James Jordan, Lilah Jordan, and Lainey Jordan.

Kay grew up in South Whitley, Indiana, and spent most of her life in Kokomo, Indiana, where she became a familiar and respected presence in the community. She was a faithful parishioner of Shiloh United Methodist Church.

A talented and hardworking business owner, Kay owned and operated Draperies by Kay. She personally sewed and installed custom draperies throughout Kokomo and the surrounding area, serving countless homes, businesses, and hospitals. Her craftsmanship, work ethic, and pride in her work left a lasting mark on the community she served. She was a member of the homemaker club, The Harrison Triettes, and a longtime volunteer for Meals on Wheels, hand-delivering hot meals to elderly and disabled persons in the community.

For many years, Kay could be found faithfully attending the sporting events of her children and grandchildren. She rarely missed a game and was their biggest fan. You could always spot her in her lawn chair, cheering proudly and soaking in every moment.

Kay was also a devoted sports fan beyond her family. She was a huge supporter of Indiana University athletics, especially men’s and women’s basketball, and she proudly supported Northwestern High School’s women’s basketball team, following them with enthusiasm and pride.

Kay had a generous heart and found joy in caring for others. She loved to cook and took great pleasure in feeding her family, especially during gatherings filled with conversation and laughter. She also cherished her Pomeranians, loving them as family. Her two four-pawed girls Daisy and Minnie survive her.

Above all else, Kay Sue Jordan will be remembered for her unwavering devotion to her family, her sharp wit, her strong opinions, and the sense of humor that kept everyone laughing. Her legacy lives on in the generations she nurtured and in the stories that will be told for years to come.

She will be forever loved and forever remembered.

Friends are invited to visit with the family from 10 a.m. to noon Monday, December 29, 2025, at Shirley & Stout Funeral Home & Crematory, 1315 W. Lincoln Road, Kokomo, IN 46902. A funeral service celebrating Kay’s life will begin noon on Monday at the funeral home, with Pastor Tyler Manis officiating. Burial will follow in Sunset Memory Garden. Contributions may be made in Kay’s memory to the Kokomo Humane Society. Messages of condolence may be left online at www.shirleyandstout.com.

Dorena Lee Taylor

Mrs. Dorena Lee Taylor, born on September 15, 1951, in Indianapolis, Indiana, passed away at her home on December 18, 2025, at the age of 74. She was born to Glenn Paul Vores and Wanda (Shackelford) Brown. She enjoyed volunteering for CASA and the Girl Scouts, but loved spending time with her family, crafting, playing cards with friends, and sitting by the pool, watching birds.

She is survived by her husband of 55 years John Taylor; her two sons Fred (Kerrie) Taylor and Greg (Melissa) Taylor; one granddaughter Keeley Taylor; and her siblings Charles (Margaret) Vores and Keva Meziek.

Visitation will be held at Ellers Mortuary & Cremation Center, located at 3400 S. Webster Street, Kokomo, IN 46902, on December 29, 2025, from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.

The funeral service will follow at the same location from 2:00 p.m. to 2:30 p.m.

Burial will take place at Sunset Memory Garden Cemetery, located at 2097 West Alto Road, Kokomo, IN 46902, on December 29, 2025, from 3:00 p.m. to 3:10 p.m.

Angela Riley

Angela Riley, lovingly known as Angie or GG, passed away peacefully on December 18, 2025, at her home. She was at home with her daughters Paris and Italy by her side—exactly where she belonged.

Angela was known for her unmistakable sass, sharp wit, and strong presence. She had a way of speaking her mind and making her love unmistakably known. Above all else, her greatest accomplishment and proudest joy was her family—especially her daughters and grandchildren, who meant everything to her.

One of her greatest comforts and joys was spending time with her own mother. She especially loved her mom’s cooking—meals that were more than food, but expressions of love, tradition, and togetherness. Those moments of family, laughter, and shared meals meant everything to her.

Her favorite role of all was being a Noni to her grandchildren. She cherished every moment spent with them—taking them on adventures, doing crafts together, and creating memories they will carry with them forever. Being their Noni was not just a hobby, but her heart.

Angela enjoyed the simple things that brought her comfort and happiness. She loved doing crafts and creating with her hands. She was a devoted fan of Law & Order: SVU and Forensic Files, shows she could watch again and again. She also loved Eminem and Lil’ Wayne, and it wasn’t uncommon to find her jamming to her favorite songs, fully enjoying the moment.

Angela is survived by her mother Melinda Kitts; her sisters Crystal Riley and Stacy Kitts-Macomber; her daughters Italy Riley and Paris Chavez; her son-in-law Oscar Chavez; her grandchildren Dijon Prather, Dierre Prather, and Nayeli Chavez; her brothers Garnet Riley and Justyn Riley; her nephew Nate Riley; and her nieces Christian Kitts-Ellison, Alaish Kitts, Brianna Kitts, and Mercedes Riley.

She was preceded in death by her father Gregory Riley; her great uncle Jack Kitts; her great aunt Sandra Patricia Kitts-East; her grandfather Paris Alton Kitts; her grandmother Betty Jene Buck Kitts; and her beloved granddaughter Avilah Reed.

Angela will be remembered for her strength, her humor, her honesty, and the fierce love she had for her family. Though her absence leaves an immeasurable loss, her legacy lives on through the lives she shaped and the memories she created.

She will be deeply missed and forever loved.

Funeral services for Angela will be held at 4 p.m. on Monday, December 29, 2025, at Shirley & Stout Funeral Home, 1315 W. Lincoln Road, Kokomo, with Pastor Lionel McNeil officiating. Friends are invited to visit with the family from 2 to 4 p.m. on Monday at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the funeral home to assist with final expenses. Donations can be made and messages of condolence left on her obituary page at www.shirleyandstout.com.

Phyllis Irene Spiegel

Phyllis Irene Spiegel, 69, of Atlanta, Indiana, passed away peacefully on December 19, 2025, at IU Health Tipton Hospital, surrounded by her loving family.

Phyllis was born on May 13, 1956, in Indianapolis, Indiana, to Matthew and Mary (Davis) Waterman. She was a proud graduate of Southport High School in 1974. She then married the love of her life Roy Spiegel, and together they shared 51 wonderful years of marriage filled with love, laughter, and devotion.

Phyllis spent much of her career working in machine shops, where she met many friends along the way. However, her greatest joy came from being a mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, creating a warm and welcoming environment for her family.

She enjoyed arts, crafts, and painting in her free time. Phyllis also cherished the time spent camping, visiting the beach, and being near the ocean. Her happiest moments were those shared with family and friends when her home was full of people and laughter.

Phyllis was gentle and kind, with a quiet demeanor that brought calm and comfort to those around her. She will be remembered for her caring nature, generous heart, and the love she poured into her family and friends.

Phyllis’s legacy of love and warmth will live on in the hearts of all who knew her and will be carried on by her husband Roy Spiegel; children Roy Spiegel Jr. (Tiffany), Mike Spiegel (Haley), and Autumn Spiegel; grandchildren Roy Spiegel III and family, Aleshia Spiegel and family, Kristina Spiegel, Avery Spiegel, and Kate Ingram; siblings Ronnie Waterman and Sharon Waterman; former daughter-in-law Gretchen Usitalo; as well as many great grandchildren, nieces, and nephews.

Phyllis was welcomed into Heaven by her parents Matthew & Mary Waterman; sister Judy Bowers; and brother Richard Waterman.

A private burial is planned.

Taylor & Cowan Funeral Home is honored to serve Phyllis’s family in their time of need.

Kris John Daugherty

Kris John Daugherty, a cherished soul known for his loving nature, friendly demeanor, and infectious humor, passed away on December 19, 2025, at the age of 69. Born on April 28, 1956, in Connersville, Indiana, Kris was a beacon of light in the lives of all who knew him. His final days were spent surrounded by the warmth of his family in Kokomo, Indiana.

Kris was a proud graduate of Kokomo High School’s Class of 1974, where he first showcased his athletic talents and team spirit. His professional journey was as diverse as it was fulfilling, having worked for various lawn care companies and as a stockbroker before dedicating his efforts to FEMA, where he made a significant impact. Kris also found joy in his time at the Lafayette Country Club, where he combined his love for the outdoors with his passion for golf.

Family was the cornerstone of Kris’s life. He is survived by his devoted mother Virginia Daugherty; his loving wife of 47 years Bonnie; his sons Eric, Chad (Adrienne), and Shawn (Alesha); and his adored grandchildren Kinsley, Savannah, Boden, and Sidney. His sister Holly also remains to honor his memory. Kris was preceded in death by his father Billy Daugherty and his brother Rick Daugherty.

A man of faith, Kris lived his Christian values through his actions and interactions with others. He was a guiding force in his community, often found teaching and coaching sports, instilling in his children and many others the values of teamwork, dedication, and sportsmanship. Kris’s love for basketball, a place where he spent countless joyful hours on the court, and baseball was only matched by his skill on the golf course.

Kris’s legacy is one of laughter, kindness, and an unwavering commitment to his family and friends. His ability to light up a room with his humor and to make anyone feel welcome was unparalleled. Those who had the pleasure of knowing Kris will remember him as a man who lived life to the fullest, cherished every moment, and loved without reservation.

As we bid farewell to Kris John Daugherty, we reflect on a life well-lived and the countless memories he has left behind. His spirit will continue to inspire and guide us, and his memory will forever be etched in the hearts of those who loved him. Kris’s journey on earth may have concluded, but his story will be recounted with smiles and fondness for generations to come.

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