Basil C. Bailey, Marvin Walton Nickolson, Barbi Roberta Schoeppner, Joan Fern Shouse, Amy Lynn Mayberry-Carroll, Sam D. Davis

Basil C. Bailey

Basil C. Bailey, 77, of Gallipolis, Ohio, won his long and courageous fight with Parkinson’s disease and dementia on Sunday, August 9, 2026, when he left this world and entered into eternity. Basil passed away peacefully at Abbyshire Place, surrounded by the love of his family and those who meant so much to him.

Basil was born on February 20, 1949, in Spruce Pine, North Carolina. He was the son of the late J. Ray and Leah Laws Bailey. He graduated from Cane River High School in 1967. Eventually, he “outran the law” all the way to Gallipolis, Ohio, where he made his home and began a long and successful career as a union insulator. Basil was a member of Local 80 for 52 years. He took pride in his work and in the many friendships and memories he made throughout the years.

Basil is survived by his wife of 38 years Marva K. Dalton Bailey, whom he married on May 6, 1988; his children Basil C. “Base” (Jennifer) Bailey, Jr. of Crown City, Ohio, William V. “Bill” (Mara) Bailey of Bidwell, Ohio, Deborah (Brian) Moore of Kokomo, Indiana, and Kevin D. (Crystal) Turley of Kingsland, Georgia; grandchildren Carson Bailey, McKenzie Bailey, Will Bailey, Kayla Cohen, Emily Turley, and Hannah Turley; brothers Isaac R. Bailey of Green Mountain, North Carolina, and Tim M. Bailey of Gallipolis, Ohio; and nieces Donna Stevens, Kathy Clark, and Lynn Banks, as well as his nephew Jimmy Lee Duke. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by three infant sisters and a brother Teddy Joe Bailey.

Basil was a man who loved deeply and lived life in his own way. He loved the mountains, he loved his family, and he never met a good story he didn’t enjoy telling. But if there was one thing that truly had his heart, it was cars. His passion for automobiles was a lifelong love affair. Chevrolet cars, especially Corvettes, were his favorite, and drag racing was his No. 1 passion. Whether he was restoring an old car, talking about cars, walking around a car show, or spending the day at a NASCAR race watching Dale Earnhardt, Basil was happiest when he was surrounded by anything with four wheels and a motor. His knowledge and enthusiasm for cars are some things his family will always remember.

Above all else, Basil loved his family. His family was his greatest source of pride, and the memories they made together will live on in their hearts for generations to come. Basil and Marva shared so many interest and hobbies that they were, quite literally, always together. Whether they were taking road trips, going on vacation, attending races, or simply cruising around town in one of their cars, Basil was happiest when he was beside Marva. He cherished every moment he was able to spend with his children and especially his grandchildren, who held a very special place in his heart. His caregivers Brandi and Mia became much more than caregivers. They became family. Basil looked forward to the time he spent with them and was grateful for the companionship and care they gave.

Basil had a personality all his own. He was strong-willed, hardworking, independent, and never afraid to speak his mind. He could make you laugh, tell you a story you had heard a hundred times, and probably tell you one more time just for good measure. Although Parkinson’s and dementia took away so much from Basil in his final years, they could never take away the life he lived, the memories he created, or the love he gave. His family will remember him not for the illness that eventually slowed him down, but for the man he was: a husband, father, grandfather, brother, friend, storyteller, and lifelong car enthusiast.

Basil’s journey on this earth has come to an end, but his story does not. He leaves behind a lifetime of memories, a family who loved him dearly, and a legacy that will continue through the generations who carry his name. He will be deeply missed, forever remembered, and always loved.

“The race has been run. The checkered flag has fallen. And now, Basil has crossed the finish line into eternity.”

The funeral service for Basil will be at 3:00 p.m. on Sunday, August 16, 2026, at Willis Funeral Home, with Pastor Bob Hood officiating. Friends may call prior to the service on Sunday from 1:00 p.m.-3:00 p.m. at the funeral home. His burial will be in Bailey-Hill Cemetery in Burnsville, North Carolina, with graveside services at 3:30 p.m. on Monday, August 17, 2026.

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to Parkinson’s Research, 200 SE 1st Street, Suite 800, Miami, FL 33131 and or to St. Jude’s Foundation.

Marvin Walton Nickolson

Marvin Walton Nickolson, 90, Kokomo, passed away at 10:15 a.m. on Wednesday, August 12, 2026, at his home. He was born in Canalou, MO, on October 12, 1935, the son of the late Sam and Elizabeth (Johnson) Nickolson. On December 29, 1958, he married Barbara Ann Williams, and she survives.

Marvin graduated from Froebel High School and Indiana University. He served his country in the United States Army from 1958 to 1960. He retired as a personnel manager, having worked for Libby Foods, Nestle, Campbell’s, and Red Gold. He was an active member of St. Joan of Arc Catholic Church, where he served on the parish leadership boards, actively volunteered, and enjoyed his friends in the Sunshine Club. He also volunteered with the local Red Cross. He enjoyed playing and coaching softball in his younger days.

Along with his wife Barbara, Marvin is survived by his children Donald Eric Nickolson and Deidre Elizabeth Nickolson-Edie; grandchildren Alexis Paige Nickolson-Edie and Jasmine Nicole Nickolson-Edie; and son-in-law Benjamin James Howes.

He was preceded in death by his parents, infant son Alan Curtis Nickolson, and stepmother Bessie Nickolson.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 1 p.m. on Tuesday, August 18, 2026, at St. Joan of Arc Catholic Church, 3155 S 200 W., Kokomo, with Rev. Fr. Christopher Shocklee the celebrant, assisted by Deacon Marty Stout. Burial will follow in Albright Cemetery. Friends may visit the family from 11 a.m. until the time of service on Tuesday at the church. Shirley & Stout Funeral Home has been entrusted with arrangements. Memorial contributions may be made to St. Joan of Arc Catholic Church. Messages of condolence may be left online at www.shirleyandstout.com.

Barbi Roberta Schoeppner

Barbi Roberta Schoeppner, 40, of Ormond Beach, Florida, passed away on Monday, August 3, 2026, at AdventHealth in Daytona Beach, Florida.

Barbi was a cherished daughter, born on December 13, 1985, in Panorama City, California, to Albert J. Schoeppner and Joyce A. Murphy.

Barbi graduated from Kokomo High School in 2004, where she attended the Kokomo Area Career Center’s welding program. She spent years working as a grill master and in the culinary arts and most recently worked at Café Verde in New Smyrna Beach, Florida.

Barbi could do just about anything she put her mind to. She was skilled in all things construction, specializing in tile work and flooring. She was also a self-taught skateboarder and surfer, always willing to learn, create, and take on something new.

Barbi was an artist at heart. She loved music, movies, writing, and poetry. She loved spending time with family and friends and being outdoors, especially attending music festivals and concerts, which she did regularly. She found joy in the simple act of being surrounded by the people, places, and music she loved.

For the past 20 years, Barbi shared her life with “her person” Stephanie Teston and the daughter they raised together, Jada Kurk. Her fur baby Pistol was also very near and dear to her heart.

Barbi didn’t know a stranger. She loved people wholeheartedly and had a way of making others feel welcome. Even through years of hardships, heartbreak, misplaced loves, and struggles with addiction, Barbi’s smile could still light up a room. The things she endured throughout her life never took away the light that lived within her. She continued to find joy in music, art, laughter, adventure, and the people she loved. She left an imprint on every person she encountered, and the sound of her laughter will echo in all of our hearts forever.

She was a beloved daughter, second mother, sister, aunt, cousin, and friend. Barbi’s life was filled with creativity, adventure, laughter, music, and most of all, love. Though her time with us was far too short, the memories she created and the love she gave will remain with those who knew her.

Along with her parents Albert Schoeppner and Joyce Murphy, Barbi is survived by her sisters Sharon Stone (Ron) Collins and Teresa (Schoeppner) Rudd, as well as many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

She is also survived by her Florida parents Jeanine and Wayne Martineau, who held a special place in her heart.

Barbi was preceded in death by all of her grandparents, as well as her two nephews Gavin and Elijah Rudd.

A funeral service celebrating Barbi’s life will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, August 22, 2026, at Sycamore Reformed Presbyterian Church, 300 E. Mulberry Street, Kokomo, Indiana.

A cookout and bonfire will follow at 5:00 p.m. at 5265 W., 1100 S., Amboy, IN 46911

Family and friends are invited to come together to celebrate Barbi’s life, share memories, laughter, stories, and the love she gave so freely to so many.

Joan Fern Shouse

With hearts full of love, we celebrate the beautiful life of Joan Fern Shouse (nee: Arthur) who passed July 29, 2026, at the remarkable age of 96. A woman of profound grace, Joan leaves behind an enduring legacy of unconditional love and lifelong learning.

Joan was born on May 13, 1930, in Patoka, Indiana, as one of two daughters of the late James Devin Arthur and Margaret Fern Arthur. After graduating from Patoka High School, Joan followed her passion for education by earning her degree from Purdue University in 1953 and going on to get her Master’s at Ball State University. As a passionate teacher and dedicated educator, she inspired students for decades at Kokomo Center Schools before enjoying a well-deserved retirement in Florida.

Joan lived a full life centered around family. She is reunited in heaven with her husband of 56 years Noah Shouse. She was blessed with three children Phyllis, Richard, and Gloria; and five grandsons whom she adored Devin, William, James, Michael, and Charles. She is survived by her loving sister Janet with whom she shared an inseparable lifelong bond.

Outside of the classroom and family gatherings, she enjoyed gardening, attending church, shopping, and was an avid sports fan, especially cheering on her Purdue Boilermakers basketball and football teams. Joan’s warmth, love, caring, and bright smile will be deeply missed by her family, friends, and former students.

A funeral service will take place on August 27, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at First Evangelical Presbyterian Church, 2000 W. Jefferson Street, Kokomo, Indiana. Services will be followed by entombment at Sunset Memory Garden Cemetery. Share a memory with the family at www.sunsetmemorygarden.com

Amy Lynn Mayberry-Carroll

Amy Lynn Mayberry-Carroll, born on April 15, 1975, at Edwards Air Force Base in California, passed away on July 19, 2026, in Kokomo, Indiana, leaving behind a legacy of love and warmth that touched the lives of many.

Amy is survived by her mother and stepfather Kay and Dave Stouse, father and stepmother Ronald and Denise Mayberry, grandmother Jackie Landis, daughter Chelsee Gamblin, son-in-law Dustin Gamblin, granddaughter and grandson Sophee and Atlas Gamblin, stepsister Katy Karras, stepbrother-in-law Lee Karras, a nephew and nieces, and more family and friends. Her family was at the center of her life, and she treasured every moment spent with those she loved.

Amy was a graduate of Apex High School. She went on to get her associate’s degree from Indiana University Kokomo. In her early years, she was a daycare teacher. Amy had a natural ability to nurture and encourage others, with her work reflecting the compassion that defined her character. She also worked as a Team Leader for Chrysler until her retirement, where she was respected for her leadership, commitment, hard work, dedication, and perseverance.

Her faith was also an important part of her life. Amy was a devout Christian and a member of Abundant Life Church, where she served and found fellowship, strength, and spiritual comfort. Her faith guided her through life and was reflected in the grace and love she extended to others. She lived with a spirit of kindness and an appreciation for the blessings of family, friendship and community.

She dedicated her life to being the best mom and was fierce with her love. She was the biggest supporter and cheerleader of her daughter Chelsee. It was her No. 1 priority to be there for her in everything that she did, no matter the circumstance. She would decorate the entire house for birthdays, holidays, etc., just to show how much she cared. Birthdays became birth weeks. The little things became the big things, and she never stopped reminding Chelsee just how much she loved her and how proud of her she was.

Throughout the years, she never stopped being present. Whether it was a slight inconvenience or a 4 a.m. phone call, she was there to listen and help. This did not change when she became a mother-in-law or grandmother (Mimi), either, as she again and again demonstrated the love and loyalty she had for her family.

Amy had many interests that brought joy to her days. In her free time, she loved simply talking with people and connecting with others. She was a stranger to none. Being able to make friends everywhere she went was her superpower. She enjoyed yoga, gardening, and also enjoyed painting and making art, expressing her creativity in ways that reflected her vibrant spirit.

Those who knew Amy will remember her for her loving heart, her spirited nature, and her creative soul. She had a way of bringing energy and light into the lives of others and her memory will continue to shine through the many lives she touched. Her family and friends will forever cherish the love she gave, the laughter she shared and the countless memories she created.

Amy Lynn Mayberry-Carroll’s life was one of devotion, compassion and joy. Though her time on earth has ended, the love she gave and the beauty she brought into the world will remain in the hearts of those who knew and loved her. She will be deeply missed and always remembered.

Celebration of life will be held on Saturday, August 29, 2026. Gathering at 11 a.m.-noon, with the Celebration of life at noon at Abundant Life Church Life Center, 1025 E, 400 S, Kokomo, IN 46902. The family wishes guests to wear clothing with color, not strictly formal black, as this goes with Amy’s bright personality. In lieu of flowers, family is asking for donations to go towards a memorial garden to honor Amy.

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

Sam D. Davis

Sam D. Davis, known to many as Dick, passed away on August 11, 2026, in Peru, Indiana, at the age of 58.

He was born on October 18, 1967, in Peru, Indiana, and spent his life rooted in the community he called home. Dick was the son of the late Samuel M. Davis and Hazel Owen. He was also preceded in death by his sisters Janet and Jeanett Davis and his brothers Douglas Clayton Davis and Marty Shrock. He is survived by his sister Pauline Davis, along with other family members and friends who will remember him with love and affection.

Dick attended Peru High School and carried with him throughout life the values of hard work, independence, and loyalty to the people around him. For many years, he worked as a roofer in Peru, where he was known for his steady work ethic and his willingness to take on demanding jobs. His years in the trade reflected the dependable and determined nature that defined him. He approached his work with the same spirit that guided the rest of his life, meeting each day with resilience and an honest dedication to getting the job done.

Outside of work, Dick found joy in the simple pleasures that meant the most to him. He loved going fishing and spending time outdoors, where he felt most at peace. He especially enjoyed going to the river, a place that brought him comfort, reflection, and a sense of freedom. He also cherished time spent hanging out with his friends, sharing stories, laughter, and companionship. Those who knew him best will remember how much he valued these moments and how naturally he brought warmth and energy to the lives of others.

Dick was an adventurous man who was never afraid to follow his own path. He had a passionate way about him that showed in the way he lived, worked, and cared for the people and places he loved. He was also creative, often bringing his own unique perspective to life and to the experiences he shared with others. These qualities made him memorable to those who knew him and helped shape a life that was unmistakably his own.

He will be remembered as a man who lived with heart and authenticity. Dick’s presence left an impression on family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing him. Whether through his work, his love of the outdoors, or the time he spent with those closest to him, he created memories that will continue to be treasured. His life was marked by a strong connection to his hometown, to the people around him, and to the activities that brought him joy.

Though his passing leaves a deep void, his memory will remain a lasting comfort to those who loved him. The stories shared about him, the lessons learned from him, and the laughter he inspired will continue to live on in the hearts of many. His life was a reminder of the value of hard work, friendship, and making time for the things that matter most.

Dick’s family and friends will forever hold him close in their hearts. He will be dearly missed and lovingly remembered for his adventurous spirit, his passion for life, and the creative, genuine way he moved through the world.

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