https://www.ripleybee.com/2016/11/29/4075/ 2016-11-29T10:12:18Z holmanwebad ]]> ]]> Robert F. “Bob” Koehler, 86 https://www.ripleybee.com/2024/10/07/robert-f-bob-koehler-86/ 2024-10-07T05:47:00Z

Robert F. “Bob” Koehler, age 86, of Russellville, Ohio died peacefully Sunday, October 6, 2024 at the Ohio Valley Manor Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in Ripley, Ohio surrounded by his family. Mr. Koehler was a farmer and general manager of the Farmers Warehouse in Ripley, Ohio for 47 years. He was a member of the St. George Catholic Church in Georgetown, Ohio and served his country in the United States Marine Corp. Bob was born June 2, 1938 in Mason County, Kentucky the son of the late Elmer and Anna (Newdigate) Koehler. Besides his parents, he was also preceded in death by his wife of 55 years – Patricia “Pat” (Griffith) Koehler in 2015 whom he married November 28, 1959 and one brother – Thomas “Tommy” Koehler.

Mr. Koehler is survived by five children – Rob Koehler and wife Deb of Sardinia, Ohio, Chris Koehler and wife Trish of Russellville, Ohio, Veronica Beucler and husband Rob of Sardinia, Ohio, Mike Koehler and wife Tammy of Russellville, Ohio and Marty Koehler and wife Hanna of Russellville, Ohio; thirteen grandchildren; four step grandchildren; twenty-one great grandchildren, five step great grandchildren, one great-great grandchild; one brother – Edward “Joe” Koehler of Georgetown, Ohio; one sister – Margaret “Peggy” Swartz and husband John of Georgetown, Ohio and several nieces, nephews cousins and friends.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 A.M. Friday, October 11, 2024 at the St. George Catholic Church, 501 East State Street, Georgetown, Ohio 45121. Rev. Dohrman Byers will be the Celebrant. Visitation will be from 5:00 P.M. – 8:00 P.M. Thursday, October 10, 2024 at the Cahall Funeral Home in Georgetown, Ohio. Interment will be in the Linwood Cemetery in Russellville, Ohio with military honors provided by the Walter Miller American Legion Post #394 of Russellville, Ohio.

If desired, memorials may be made to the Wounded Warrior Project, P.O. Box 758517, Topeka, Kansas 66675.

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Mary Joan “Jody” Bridges (nee Helbling), 89 https://www.ripleybee.com/2024/10/07/mary-joan-jody-bridges-nee-helbling-89/ 2024-10-07T04:15:00Z

Mary Joan “Jody” Bridges (nee Helbling), age 89, of Union Twp., passed away October 2, 2024. Beloved wife and soul mate of the late Robert T. Bridges. Proud mother of Robert (Marilyn) Bridges, Erin (Rudy) Frey, and Jill (Adam) Painter. Treasured sister of Raymond Helbling and the late Margaret Scott, Rita Dunbar, Theresa Seipelt, Louise Wayson, and Gina Helbling. Dear sister-in-law of Connie Klinker and Angie Bridges. Loving Nana of Lauren (Ben) Loyer, Andrea Bridges, Kara and Eric Frey, Elliot (Kirsten) Painter, and Grant (Anne) Painter. Dearest great-grandmother of Elva and Summer Painter, and cherished aunt of many nephews and nieces. Jody was born in Ripley, Ohio June 1, 1935 to William and Margaret (nee Schumacher) Helbling. She was raised with her 5 sisters and one brother on the family farm in Ripley. Baptized at St. Michael Church in Ripley, she sang for many years in the church choir. She attended St. Michael Elementary School in Ripley, and graduated as the valedictorian of her Ripley High School Class of 1953.

Following graduation, Jody worked as a legal secretary in Ripley, and later as a secretary at Wright Patterson Air Force Base in Dayton. Jody married her high school sweetheart, Bob Bridges, in 1958. It was a marriage they celebrated for the next 60 years, until Bob’s death in 2018. In 1961, Jody and Bob moved from Dayton to their new home in Cherry Grove, where she resided until 2022, when she moved into The Glen Senior Living Home in Eastgate. Jody’s devotion to her family was second only to her devotion to her Lord. She was an active member of St. Thomas More Church in Withamsville, Ohio for 60 years, serving in numerous church organizations and ministries. Compelled to action by the Gospel passage of Matthew 25, she and Bob were staple members of the Southeastern Ecumenical Ministry, helping to serve the neediest in their community. Jody had a special place in her heart for the elderly, providing meals, transportation, conversation and cheer to countless elderly neighbors, fellow parishioners, friends and relatives. During her long retirement with Bob, Jody enjoyed traveling, hosting sleepovers with her grandchildren, big family holidays, and gardening, while continuing to volunteer in community and church activities.

Visitation at St. Thomas More Church, 800 Ohio Pike on Thursday, October 10th from 10 to 11 a.m.., followed by Mass of Christian Burial at 11 a.m. at the church. Immediately following the Mass, Jody will be laid to rest at Mt. Moriah Cemetery, 686 Mt. Moriah Drive, Cincinnati, OH 45245. The Bridges family suggests memorials to the SEM Food Pantry, 2020 Beechmont Avenue, Cincinnati, OH 45230, or St. Thomas More Church, 800 Ohio Pike, Cincinnati, OH 45245. T.P. White & Sons Funeral Home serving the family. www.tpwhite.com

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Robert Bryan McClees, 57 https://www.ripleybee.com/2024/10/07/robert-bryan-mcclees-57/ 2024-10-07T01:15:00Z

Robert Bryan McClees, 57, of Ripley, Ohio, passed away Wednesday, October 2, 2024. He was an Army Gulf War Veteran.

Mr. McClees was born September 11, 1967 in Cincinnati, Ohio, the son of Robert M. McClees and the late Cheryl Wheeler Henrich.

A 1985 graduate of Hoffman Estates High School, Hoffman Estates, IL, he obtained his B.A. in Electrical Engineering from Northern Illinois University in 1999 after a 12-year career with the U.S. Army.

Rob was an amazing musician with an incredible sense of humor. Fitness was important to him throughout his life and he enjoyed weight lifting, body building and MMA fighting. He loved helping others. Whether in Ripley, OH; Chicago, IL; Los Angeles, CA or Miami, FL, he made many friends along the way. Family was always most important to him.

Besides his mother, Rob was preceded in death by his grandparents, Tony McClees and Lucille McClees-Poff and Ornan and Irene Wheeler; great-aunt Beaulah (Harvey) White; great-uncle James Marvin (Loreen) Stamper; aunts, Judy Ann McClees, Mary Katherine (Bill) Perry-Parker, Debra Sue (Jack) Feldmann; and uncle, James McClees.

He is survived by his father, Robert M. McClees (Joyce) of Aberdeen, Ohio; sister, Sheila McClees of Roscoe, Illinois; great-uncle, Irwin Stamper, of Aberdeen, Ohio; uncle, Larry (Mary) D. Wheeler of Tipp City, Ohio; aunts, Susan Nickerson of Maysville, Kentucky, Diane (Walter) Robinson of Sardinia, Ohio, Sherry Humble of Mt. Orab, Ohio, and Gemma McClees of St. Petersburg, FL, along with several cousins and close friends who will miss him terribly.

Funeral services will be held at 2:00 P.M. Tuesday, October 8, 2024 at Cahall Funeral Home in Ripley, Ohio. Rev. Clark Castle will officiate. Visitation will be from 12:00 to 2:00 P.M. Tuesday. Interment will follow the funeral service in Pisgah Ridge Cemetery, near Ripley, with military honors provided by American Legion Post #367 of Ripley, Ohio.

Condolences may be sent to the family at: www.cahallfuneralhomes.com

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Christopher “Cooter” Staten, 45 https://www.ripleybee.com/2024/10/07/christopher-cooter-staten-45/ 2024-10-07T01:15:00Z

Christopher “Cooter” Staten, 45, of Winchester, OH, passed away Sunday, October 6, 2024 as the result of an automobile accident. He was born April 17, 1979 in Georgetown, OH to Kim Staten and the late Cheryl L. (Ingram) Staten. He was a machinist at Huhtamaki and was a 1997 graduate from Eastern High School.

He is survived by his daughters, Gracie Staten (Alex Sherman) of Williamsburg, Lillian Staten of Mt. Orab, Hailey Staten of Chillicothe; father; Kim Staten of Ash Ridge; sister, Misty Staten of Ash Ridge; brother, Brock Staten (Peggy Jordan) of Ash Ridge; grandson, EJ; niece, Alexis Staten (Bill Rinear) of Ash Ridge; great nephew, Memphis, as well as several aunts, uncles and cousins.

Visitation will be held Thursday, October 10, 2024 from 5:00 – 7:00 PM at the Meeker Funeral Home in Russellville. Cremation will follow.

Please sign his online tribute wall at www.meekerfuneralhomes.com.

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Carole E. Arn, 81 https://www.ripleybee.com/2024/10/07/carole-e-arn-81/ 2024-10-07T10:30:00Z

Carole E. Arn, age 81, of Winchester, Ohio passed away Friday, October 4, 2024. She was born May 18, 1943 in Letcher County, KY, daughter of the late Oscar W. and Stella E. (Bentley) Salyers. She worked in the treasurer’s office at Eastern High School. She also was a member of the Mt. Olivet Community Church.

In addition to her parents, she was also preceded in death by 6 brothers and 1 sister.

Carole is survived by her loving husband of 60 years, Donald Arn of Winchester; children, David (Shelly) Arn of Ripley, Todd (Sarah) Arn of Russellville, Tracy (Bill) Mullins of Winchester; sister, Paula Wilson of Batavia; 14 grandchildren; 6 great grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will be held Tuesday, October 8, 2024 at 11:00 AM at the Mt. Olivet Community Church with Mark Cole officiating. Burial will follow in the Ash Ridge Cemetery. Visitation will be held Monday, October 7, 2024 from 6:00 – 8:00 PM at the Meeker Funeral Home in Russellville.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Mt. Olivet Community Church, 9454 Ash Ridge-Winchester Rd, Winchester, OH 45697.

Please sign her online tribute wall at www.meekerfuneralhomes.com

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Shirley (nee Rhoten) Koewler, 85 https://www.ripleybee.com/2024/10/07/shirley-nee-rhoten-koewler-85/ 2024-10-07T10:25:00Z

Shirley (nee Rhoten) Koewler, age 85, passed away, Thursday, September 26th, 2024. Born on August 7, 1939, in Ripley, Ohio, the daughter of LeRoy and Emma (Germann) Rhoten.

Beloved wife of the late William (Bill) Koewler for 61 years. Devoted mother of Greg, Steve (Julie) and Brian (Karin) Koewler and Pam (Scott) Lovdal. Dear grandmother of Morgan, Mack, Kaitlyn, Connor, Madelyn, Jake, Abby, Elle, Jarred and Mitch. Shirley is survived by two sisters; Patricia (late Bob) Schell, Janice (Rick) Klinker, a brother; Larry (late Shirley) Rhoten and sisters-in-law Connie Rhoten, Barb Rhoten. Preceded in death by brothers Charles Rhoten, Roy Rhoten, George Rhoten and sister Marilyn (nee Rhoten) Martin.

Shirley attended St. Michael Catholic School and graduated from Ripley High School. She moved to Cincinnati, Ohio in 1957 to work for the Department of Agriculture. In 1961, she married Bill, and they moved to Colerain Township, where they raised their family in St. Ann’s Parish. Later, she went back to work for the University of Cincinnati School of Medicine as the assistant to the Dean of Students. Shirley retired in 2000 to help with her 10 grandchildren.

Memorial visitation at St. Bartholomew Church 9375 Winton Rd. 45231 on Friday, October 18th at 9:30 AM until Memorial Mass of Christian Burial at 10:30 AM. In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to Hospice of Cincinnati.

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Gladys Naomi Liming, 95 https://www.ripleybee.com/2024/10/07/gladys-naomi-liming-95/ 2024-10-07T07:01:00Z

Gladys Naomi Liming, age 95, of Georgetown, Ohio passed away Monday, September 30, 2024 at the Otterbein Senior Community in Union Township, Ohio. She was born March 21, 1929 in Ash Ridge, Ohio the daughter of the late Roy and Lola (Schweickart) Newman. Gladys grew up on the family farm and told stories of milking cows before school, collecting eggs from the hen house, making bread and many other chores while living through the depression. She married Ernest “Rip” Liming on April 21, 1946 and together they raised seven children. Gladys was a homemaker and enjoyed gardening, baking and visiting with her children, grandchildren and great grandchildren. Besides her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband of 53 years in 1999, two brothers – James Newman and Ralph Newman, two sisters – Wanda Schwallie and Ruth Cahall and three grandchildren – Travis Reid, Amber Branham and Kelly Reid Hillerich.

Mrs. Liming is survived by seven children – Richard Liming and wife Diane of Goshen, Ohio, Dan Liming and wife Kathy of Toledo, Ohio, Barbara Liming and husband Rodney of Cincinnati, Ohio, Thomas Liming of Amelia, Ohio, Tim Liming of Cincinnati, Ohio, Blair Liming of Cincinnati, Ohio and Jody Helbling and husband George of Georgetown, Ohio; nine grandchildren, twenty great grandchildren and one great-great granddaughter on the way.

Funeral services will be held at 1:00 P.M. Saturday, October 5, 2024 at the Cahall Funeral Home in Georgetown, Ohio. Dan Pelzel will officiate. Visitation will be from 11:00 A.M. – 1:00 P.M. Saturday at the funeral. Interment will be in the Confidence Cemetery in Georgetown, Ohio.

If desired, memorial contribution may be made to the Brown County Humane Society Small Animal Adoption Center.

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Albert Frederick “Buddy” Helbling Jr., 77 https://www.ripleybee.com/2024/10/07/albert-frederick-buddy-helbling-jr-77/ 2024-10-07T07:00:00Z

Albert Frederick “Buddy” Helbling, Jr., age 77 of Georgetown, Ohio died Tuesday, October 1, 2024 at the Villa Georgetown Rehabilitation and Healthcare Center in Georgetown, Ohio. He was a retired factory worker for Steelcraft Corporation and Container Corporation, had a love for farming and was a member of St. George Catholic Church in Georgetown, Ohio. Buddy was born August 3, 1947 in Maysville, Kentucky the son of the late Albert Frederick and Martha (Hermann) Helbling, Sr.

Mr. Helbling is survived by his wife of fifty-six years – Connie (Taylor) Helbling whom he married October 28, 1967; five children – Albert F. Helbling III of Sardinia, Ohio, Christina Helbling of Georgetown, Ohio, Jacqueline Helbling Cooper of Georgetown, Ohio, Jody Earl Helbling and significant other Brittany Brock of Rutledge, Tennessee and Katherine Helbling-Loudon and husband Chase; eighteen grandchildren; nine great grandchildren; nine siblings – Connie Adkins of Georgetown, Ohio, Frank Helbling and wife Juanita of Georgetown, Ohio, Mary Gregory of Georgetown, Ohio, Charles Helbling and wife Freda of Arnheim, Ohio, Mike Helbling of Ripley, Ohio, Denny Helbling and wife Sherry of Georgetown, Ohio, Danny Helbling and wife Kathy of Georgetown, Ohio, Patricia Patton and husband Mike of Mt. Orab, Ohio and George Helbling and wife Jody of Georgetown, Ohio; one uncle – Frank Hermann and wife Kathleen of Withamsville, Ohio and many cousins.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 A.M. Monday, October 7, 2024 at St. George Catholic Church, 501 East State Street, Georgetown, Ohio. Rev. Dohrman Byers will be the Celebrant. Visitation will be from 9:00 A.M. – 10:45 A.M. Monday at the Cahall Funeral Home in Georgetown, Ohio. Interment will be in the Linwood Cemetery in Russellville, Ohio.

If desired, memorials may be made to St. George Catholic Church, 501 East State Street, Georgetown, Ohio 45121.

Condolences may be sent to the family at: www.cahallfuneralhomes.com

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Steven H. Smith, 70 https://www.ripleybee.com/2024/10/07/steven-h-smith-70/ 2024-10-07T06:56:00Z

Steven H. Smith, of Loveland, OH., passed away on October 2, 2024, at the age of 70. Steve was born on November 3, 1953, in Cincinnati, OH. He is the beloved husband of 51 years to Deborah “Debbie” S. (nee Ison) Smith. Loving father of April (Jonathan) Strayer, Jennifer (Steven) Guth and Michael (Kathy) Smith. Proud papaw of Kayla Broderick, Alexander Strayer, Dillon Strayer, Joshua Strayer, Nathaniel Strayer, Dylan Guth, Emma Guth, Brayden Guth, Kyler Smith and Alice Smith. Dear brother of Janet (Rick) Hall and Joni (Mike) Brumegem. Cherished son of the late Harold Eldon and Ruth Irene (nee Gatch) Smith. Also survived by numerous nieces, nephews, relatives and many dear friends. Steve worked for S. Rosenthal for 33 years and Enterprise Rent-A-Car for 8 years. He could always be found detailing and driving his yellow Mustangs or making music with one of his many guitars. A memorial service will be held at 11 AM on Wednesday, October 9 at Tufts Schildmeyer Funeral Home, 1668 St. Rt. 28, Goshen. Tufts Schildmeyer Crematory caring for the family. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in memory of Steve Smith to the American Cancer Society, 4540 Cooper Rd, Cincinnati, OH 45242

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Betty L. Crank, 94 https://www.ripleybee.com/2024/10/07/betty-l-crank-94/ 2024-10-07T06:55:00Z

Betty L. Crank, age 94, of Winchester, Ohio passed away Wednesday, October 2, 2024 at the Ohio Valley Hospice of Hope Inpatient Center in Seaman. She was born December 17, 1929 in West Union, OH, daughter of the late George J. and Bessie Mae (Swearingen) Lucas. She retired as a secretary for Metropolitan Housing. She also was a member of the Wesley Chapel Church of Christ in Christian Union.

In addition to her parents, she was also preceded in death by her husband, William A. Crank Sr; daughter, Sue Beville; brothers, William and George Lucas; son-in-law, Gaylen Roades and brother-in-law, Logan Crank.

Betty is survived by children; William (Loraine) Crank Jr of Marion, IN, Keith (Barbara) Crank of Winchester, Ken (Tracy) Crank of Mt. Orab, Marilyn Roades of Winchester; sister, Marie Nixon of West Union; 15 grandchildren; 36 great grandchildren; 10 great-great grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will be Monday, October 7, 2024 at 1:00 PM at the Winchester Church of Christ in Christian Union with Dan Harrison officiating. Burial will follow in the Cherry Fork Cemetery. Visitation will be held from 11:00 AM until the time of the service at 1:00 PM. The Meeker Funeral Home in Russellville is handling the arrangements.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Wesley Chapel Church of Christ in Christian Union or the Ohio Valley Hospice of Hope.

Please sign her online tribute wall at www.meekerfuneralhomes.com

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Linda Carol Truitt, 77 https://www.ripleybee.com/2024/10/02/linda-carol-truitt-77/ 2024-10-02T06:20:00Z

Linda Carol Truitt, 77, of Ripley, Ohio, passed away Tuesday, October 1, 2024 at Anderson Mercy Hospital in Cincinnati, Ohio. She was a homemaker and helped run the family business – Truitt Trucking. Mrs. Truitt was born March 7, 1947 in Georgetown, Ohio the daughter of the late Harold Lewis and Ruby Francis (Swearingen) Schmidt. She was also preceded in death by her husband in 2014 – Dale E. Truitt.

Mrs. Truitt is survived by her son – Jeff Truitt of Ripley, Ohio; a sister – Vickie Sweet of Maysville, Kentucky; many nieces, nephews and cousins.

Funeral services will be held at 1:00 P.M. Friday, October 4, 2024 at Cahall Funeral Home in Ripley, Ohio. John Neu will officiate. Visitation will be from 11:00 A.M. to 1:00 P.M. Friday. Interment will follow the funeral service in Maplewood Cemetery in Ripley.

Condolences may be sent to the family at: www.cahallfuneralhomes.com

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Kenneth W. Jimison, 92 https://www.ripleybee.com/2024/10/02/kenneth-w-jimison-92/ 2024-10-02T12:45:00Z

Kenneth W. Jimison, age 92, of Mt. Orab, OH, passed away peacefully, surrounded by the love of his family, on Sunday, September 8, 2024. Born on November 1, 1931, in Milford, OH, to the late William H. and Bernice (Harris) Jimison. Kenneth lived a life defined by kindness, service, and unwavering devotion to the people he loved. A proud US Army veteran of the Korean Conflict, he later worked as a manager at Kibler Lumber Co., where his incredible talent for building, fixing, and creating was matched only by his passion for lending a helping hand to anyone in need. He was a member of the New Lebanon Methodist Church and the Mt. Orab VFW, where he made lifelong friendships and continued his service to the community.

Kenneth’s greatest joy, however, was his family. He had a remarkable gift for making everyone feel cared for—often knowing what his loved ones needed before they did themselves. No distance was too far, no problem too big or small; Kenneth was always there, quietly offering his support in ways that seemed effortless and were always deeply felt. His grandchildren, in particular, held a special place in his heart, and he relished every moment spent spoiling them with love, laughter, and life lessons that will be carried forward for generations to come.

In addition to his parents, Kenneth is reunited with ten siblings and his two faithful schnauzers, Pepper and Candy, who were never far from his side.

He is survived by his devoted wife of 70 years, Wilma Jimison, with whom he built a lifetime of memories and love; his beloved son, Michael Jimison of Mt. Orab; his three cherished grandchildren, Stephanie (Chris) Nichol of Randleman, NC, K.J. (Logan) Jimison of Columbus, and Gracie Jimison of Philadelphia, PA; and his precious great-granddaughter, Amelia, whose sweet smile was the newest joy in his life. Kenneth also leaves behind his brothers, Arnold Jimison of Russellville and Danny Jimison of Georgia; his sisters, Aileen Wamsley of Winchester and Jane Schfler of Seaman; along with many nieces, nephews, and friends who were touched by his warmth and generosity.

A Celebration of Life will be held on October 13th from 2:00 – 4:00 PM at the Ohio Valley Manor Nursing & Rehabilitation Center in Ripley, where all are welcome to honor the life of a man who gave so selflessly to others.

The Meeker Funeral Home in Russellville is handling the arrangements.

Please sign his online guestbook at www.meekerfuneralhomes.com.

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Gregory Nolan Reed, 31 https://www.ripleybee.com/2024/09/30/gregory-nolan-reed-31/ 2024-09-30T08:30:00Z

Gregory Nolan Reed, age 31, of Scioto County formerly of Mt. Orab, passed away unexpectedly Tuesday afternoon, September 24, 2024 at Southern Ohio Medical Center in Portsmouth surrounded by his family.

He was born November 8, 1992 in Cincinnati, Ohio, son of James Nolan Reed Jr. and Tammy Jean Walker Earls.

Gregory graduated from Western Brown High School and Southern Hills Joint Vocational School Criminal Justice Program in 2011. During high school he was enrolled in the J.R.O.T.C. program where we got to ride along with the Mt. Orab Police Department with Officer Baker. Gregory then went on to help Fayetteville Police Department and ride along with Officer Randy Carson. Both of the officers were influential to Gregory’s career in law enforcement. He was a former firefighter for Mt. Orab Fire Department, Southern Highland Joint Fire District in Mowrystown, and Hillsboro Fire Department. Gregory was a former deputy for Adams County Sheriffs Office, probation officer for Judge Gusweiler in Georgetown, and dog warden for Georgetown. He took a small break from law enforcement and worked as an aide at Southwest Ohio Developmental Center in Batavia then Angels for Life in Amelia. Gregory had just finished training for his dream job as a correctional officer for Lucasville Prison. He had been a member of Living Church of Five Mile and Mt. Orab Church of Christ. During his childhood he was very involved in church and boy scouts. Gregory loved to hunt, fish, kayak, and spend time with his family. He was a loving husband, father, son, and brother that will be missed dearly.

Surviving are his wife, Haven Reed whom he married on September 30, 2023; two daughters: Remmingtyn Reed and Presley Reed; step-daughter, Cambree Carraher; parents, Tammy Earls of Mowrystown and Jimbo Reed of Union, KY; two sisters: Jessica Reed and Pumpkin Hackle; brother, James Nolan “Scooby” Reed III; three nieces: Ava Reed, Emily Campbell, and Kendall Campbell; two nephews: Nolan Reed and Kaisyn Campbell; and numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins.

Gregory was preceded in death by his maternal grandmother, Juanita Earls; paternal grandparents: James and Dolores Reed; maternal grandparents: James and Dolores Walker; six uncles: Petey, Bobby, Johnny, and Greg Earls, James Walker, and Randall Reed; and three aunts, Pamela Jones, Connie Moore, and Tammy Smith.

Funeral Services will be held at Mt. Orab Church of Christ, 400 Smith Ave. Mt. Orab, Wednesday, October 2, 2024 at 2:00 pm with Pastors Brian York and Eric Young officiating. Interment will follow in the Mt Orab Cemetery.

Friends will be received at the church on Wednesday from 12:00 pm - 2:00 pm.

Edgington Funeral Home, Mowrystown has been entrusted with the arrangements.

Contributions in Gregory’s memory may be made to the Southern Highland Joint Fire District, P.O. Box 330 Mowrystown, OH 45155. To sign the online guest book, go to www.edgingtonfuneralhomes.com.

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Salute to the Hands that Feed Us 2024 https://www.ripleybee.com/2024/09/25/salute-to-the-hands-that-feed-us-2024/ 2024-09-25T08:00:48Z
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Lady Broncos top Williamsburg, rise to 6-7 https://www.ripleybee.com/2024/09/23/lady-broncos-top-williamsburg-rise-to-6-7/ 2024-09-23T12:00:00Z Staff report
Western Brown’s Bella Ernst hammers down a spike in the Lady Broncos’ Sept. 12 win over Williamsburg. Photo by Wade Linville

The Western Brown Lady Broncos claimed a victory over the Williamsburg Lady Wildcats Sept. 12 in a match that lasted only three sets.

The Lady Broncos took a 1-0 lead in the match with a 25-17 victory in set one. They dominated for a 25-13 win in set two before capping off the match victory with a 25-21 win in set three.

Freshman Shylah Day led the Lady Broncos in kills in the match with 10.

Western Brown junior Bella Ernst finished with nine kills, and sophomore Lila McCarty finished with eight kills.

McCarty also had 29 assists and served for four aces.

Western Brown senior Kaitlyn Jones recorded 25 digs in the match. Ernst, senior Christina Frye and McCarty all finished with 12 digs each.

The Lady Broncos rose to a Southern Buckeye Athletic/Academic Conference American Division record of 3-3 with their Sept. 10 win over Goshen.

Ernst led the way in kills in the Sept. 10 league win, finishing with 10.

Frye recorded seven kills in the match victory.

McCarty recorded 24 assists in the Sept. 10 win.

As of Sept. 16, Ernst was the SBAAC leader in kills with 130 for the season. Ernst was third in aces with 39.

Jones was second in the SBAAC in digs as of Sept. 16 with 193.

McCarty was second in the SBAAC in assists as of Sept. 16 with 312.

The Lady Broncos were scheduled to face New Richmond in a league match on the road, Sept. 17 and they are back at home to host North Adams on Sept. 19.

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173rd Brown County Fair gets underway https://www.ripleybee.com/2024/09/23/173rd-brown-county-fair-gets-underway/ 2024-09-23T11:20:00Z Wade Linville
Back for this year’s Brown County Fair is the famous team of Whispery Pines Percheron Horses. Photo by Wade Linville

It’s that time of the year once again! The time of year when schools and many businesses in Brown County shut down for the week, and thousands make their way to the village of Georgetown each day to enjoy the most popular county fair in Ohio. The calling is the 173rd Brown County Fair, and this year’s “Little State Fair” kicks off Monday, Sept. 23 and runs through Saturday, Sept. 28.

While attendees to this year’s fair will be able to enjoy many of the same events and entertainment as in past years, they can also expect some new things added for this year’s Brown County Fair, including a number of new merchants.

Expect more food vendors to help satisfy your “sweet tooth” at this year’s fair, including a new Dunkin’ Donuts trailer.

The 7 Bridges Eagles Tribute Band, which has attracted large crowds to Mt. Orab Music in the Park in recent years, will be performing on Tuesday, Sept. 24 in the main show ring at this year’s Brown County Fair.

If you’re in search of some heart-pounding excitement at this year’s Brown County Fair, there will be laser tag in the beef arena on Saturday, Sept. 28.

Setup for this year’s fair is underway, and members of the Brown County Senior Fair Board are nearly ready to open the gates to attendees.

“I’m so excited,” said Christy Lucas, Brown County Senior Fair Board Secretary/Treasurer (Scott Twp). “We work all year round, and there is so much that takes place behind the scenes. As soon as this one is finished in October, we start working on next year’s fair.”

Drawing many youngsters to the fairgrounds in Georgetown each year for the Little State Fair are the rides. According to Lucas, the rides are thoroughly inspected each year before they are allowed to run passengers, safety being the highest priority.

“We’re fortunate to have a good ride company,” said Lucas.

Back for this year’s Brown County Fair is the famous team of Whispery Pines Percheron Horses. See the Percheron Horse Team on each day at the Little State Fair or visit the horses on exhibit in the barn on Tuesday, Sept. 24.

The 173rd annual Brown County Fair kicks off in traditional fashion on Monday, Sept. 23 at 5:30 p.m. with the opening parade that begins at the Georgetown Jr./Sr. High School parking lot, moves through town, and ends at the fairgrounds.

The 2024 Brown County Fair king and queen contest will start at 8 p.m. on Sept. 23 in the Danny Gray Activity Center on the fairgrounds.

The popular demolition derby also begins at 8 p.m. on Sept. 23, taking place in the tractor pull area.

The 7 Bridges Eagles Tribute Band will perform in the main ring starting at 5:30 p.m. on Tuesday, Sept. 24, followed by live music from Tony Jackson at 7 p.m. in the main ring.

Senior fair schedule events set for Wednesday, Sept. 25 include the cheerleading competition in the main ring at 5 p.m., the Floral Hall cake auction at 6 p.m., and the championship truck and tractor pull at 7 p.m.

Senior Citizens Day is Thursday, Sept. 26, a day in which senior citizens can enter the fair for $5.

Thursday is filled with events for senior citizens, including senior citizens activities in the Danny Gray Activity Center starting at 9 a.m., followed by senior citizens recognition at 11 a.m.

The Queen City Cloggers will perform in the North East Building at 5 p.m..

Beginning at 6 p.m. on Sept. 26 is the annual Veterans Recognition Service, featuring the Liberty Band, in the main ring.

Championship truck and tractor pulls continue on Sept. 26 starting at 7 p.m., with the open horse show taking place in the main ring at 7:30 p.m.

The fair opens at 9 a.m. on Friday, Sept. 27 with the open beef show in the open show arena.

There will be a petting farm at the main entrance gate from 10 a.m. until 9 p.m. on Sept. 27 and Sept. 28.

The open horse show in the main ring begins at 1 p.m. on Sept. 27.

The Brown County Fair Board election will be held in the Fair Board Office from 2-6 p.m. on Sept. 27.

Dusty and Backwoods Drive will be performing in the Danny Gray Activity Center on Friday, Sept. 27 starting at 3 p.m.

The championship truck and tractor pull starts up again on Sept. 27 at 7 p.m.

Bobby Mackey will be performing in the Danny Gray Activity Center on Sept. 27 at 8 p.m.

Horse shows begin at 9 a.m. on Saturday, Sept. 28, with the Baby Show starting at 9:30 a.m. in the Danny Gray Activity Center.

The chili contest will be held at 1 p.m. in Floral Hall.

Championship truck and tractor pulls start at 7 p.m. on Sept. 28.

The Time Castle and Southern Ohio Rock Band will perform in the Danny Gray Activity Center on Sept. 28 at 8 p.m.

The Brown County Fair Junior Fair Animal Sales will be held on Friday, Sept. 27 at 3 p.m. and on Saturday, Sept. 28 at 11 a.m.

Junior Fair events including animal shows and project judging will be held throughout the fair.

The Junior Fair and 4-H awards are scheduled for 9 a.m. on Saturday, Sept. 28.

According to Lucas, Floral Hall has over 700 entries this year, and they are looking forward to around 250 campers for this year’s fair.

After being vandalized in recent months leading up to the 2024 Brown County Fair, the fairgrounds had to undergo some repairs. But all repairs are complete, and fair board members are excited to open the gates for this year’s flood of fair goers.

“We’re ready,” said Lucas. “I can’t wait!”

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John Bolinger, 85 https://www.ripleybee.com/2024/09/18/john-bolinger-85/ 2024-09-18T02:07:00Z John Bolinger, age 85, of Sardinia, OH, passed away Monday, September 16, 2024 at the Clermont Mercy Hospital in Batavia. He was born August 1, 1939 in Richmond, IN, the son of the late Eugene and Gertrude (McClain) Bolinger. He was a printing press mechanic and a member of the Lake Waynoka Community Chapel.

In addition to his parents, he was also preceded in death by his wife, Dottie Bolinger and son, Tony Bolinger.

He is survived by son, Terry Bolinger and wife Laura of Sardinia; daughter-in-law, Marilyn Bolinger and brother, Jimmy Bunck.

John’s wishes were to be cremated. There are no services planned.

The Meeker Funeral Home in Russellville is caring for the family.

Please sign his online tribute wall at www.meekerfuneralhomes.com

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Wilma June Wagel Wallace, 93 https://www.ripleybee.com/2024/09/16/wilma-june-wagel-wallace-93/ 2024-09-16T06:05:00Z

Augusta, KY – Wilma June Wagel Wallace, 93, passed away from complications of Parkinson’s Disease on Saturday, September 14, 2024 at Highlandspring in Ft. Thomas, KY. Wilma was born on June 19, 1931 in Bracken County, KY to the late Harry Walter Wagel and Carrie Mabel (Redden) Wagel. She is survived by her husband of 68 years, Mack Lee Wallace, whom she married in Georgetown, OH on March 30, 1956.

Wilma is also survived by her eldest daughter, Amy (Jeffrey) Jones of Foster; two granddaughters, Kelly (Austin) Miller of Bedford, IN and Kara (Sullivan) Simpson of Lexington, KY; two great grandsons, Walker Miller and Brooks Simpson; and her son-in-law, Mark Thornberry of Newport, KY.

Along with her parents, Wilma was preceded in death by her youngest daughter, Melinda Wallace Thornberry, who passed on October 15, 2021.

Wilma was a 1951 graduate of Bracken County High School in Brooksville, KY. After graduating High School, Wilma traveled by train to attend Eastern Kentucky University (EKU) in Richmond. EKU was where Wilma met her future husband, Mack, from Pulaski County, KY. Wilma was a 1955 graduate of EKU with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Home Economics and later earned her 5th Year Graduate Degree from Morehead State University.

Wilma taught Home Economics for 37 years. For 17 years, from 1955 to 1972, Wilma taught at High Schools in Southwest Ohio, then for 20 years, Wilma taught at Augusta High School until she retired in 1992.

For 33 years, from 1981 to 2014, Wilma and her husband, Mack, owned Jeans and Such Clothing Store on Main Street in Augusta.

Wilma was a member of the Augusta Christian Church, a Friend of the Augusta Independent Educational Foundation, a member of the Augusta Rotary Club, the Augusta Eastern Star-Chapter #362, the Bracken County Retired Teachers, the Bracken County Chamber of Commerce, the Bracken County Extension Homemakers, and a Pioneer Member of the EKU Alumni Association.

Funeral will be at 1:00 PM Friday, September 20, 2024 at Moore and Parker Funeral Home in Augusta, KY. Burial will be at the Brooksville Cemetery. Visitation will be 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM on Friday at the Funeral Home in Augusta.

Memorials are suggested to: Augusta Independent Educational Foundation, Inc. at: 307 Bracken Street, Augusta, KY 41002 or Camp Northward Christian Camp & Retreat Center at: P.O. Box 128, Falmouth, KY 41040.

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Martin D. Sparks, 69 https://www.ripleybee.com/2024/09/16/martin-d-sparks-69/ 2024-09-16T12:45:00Z Martin D. Sparks, a devoted truck driver who shared his passion for music through his guitar playing and held his commercial driver’s license in high regard, passed away on September 11, 2024, at the age of 69 in Fayetteville, Ohio. Doug was born on January 22, 1955, in Brown County, Ohio to Edgar Sparks and Clara “Ginny” Sallee.

Throughout his life, Doug was known for his dedication to his work as a truck driver and his love for music, often strumming his guitar during breaks on the road. His commitment to safe driving and professionalism earned him respect among his peers.

He leaves behind his beloved daughters Brandi Gibson of Amelia and Kelsey Sparks

of Fayetteville, three grandchildren and a brother, Roy Sparks of CA, who he cared for deeply.

The Celebration of Life to honor Doug’s life will take place in the coming days, providing an opportunity for friends and family to gather and remember the moments shared with him. Martin will be remembered for his kind spirit, love for music, and his dedication to his profession. May he rest in peace.

Thompson Funeral Home has the honor of serving the family.

To sign Doug’s online guest book, please visit www.thompsonfuneralhomes.com, or to lewave a like, share or comment, visit Thompson Funeral Home and Cremation Care Facebook Page.

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Larry Robert Jones, 84 https://www.ripleybee.com/2024/09/16/larry-robert-jones-84/ 2024-09-16T08:25:00Z

Larry Robert Jones, age 84, of Georgetown, Ohio passed away Wednesday, September 11, 2024 at the Anderson Mercy Hospital in Anderson Township, Ohio. He was a farmer, retired contractor, member of the FOE #2239 in Georgetown, Ohio, volunteer at Helping Hands and enjoyed fishing, gambling and gardening. Larry was born January 4, 1940 in Ripley, Ohio the son of the late Robert W. and Olive Coleen (Sammons) Jones.

Mr. Jones is survived by eleven children – Gwen Hines of Ripley, Ohio, Terry Pendergrass (Jeff) of Hamilton, Ohio, Larry R. Jones, Jr. (Willa) of Georgetown, Ohio, Tami Lyn Bering of Bethel, Joyce Colleen Whitelock (William) of Felicity, Ohio, Rusty Jones (Tracy) of Georgetown, Ohio, Regina Herman (Bruce) of Georgetown, Ohio, Jenny Fist (Mickey) of Georgetown, Ohio, Amber Jones of Felicity, Ohio, Derick Jones (Amber Smith) of Georgetown, Ohio and Aaron Jones of Georgetown, Ohio; twenty-nine grandchildren; numerous great grandchildren; several great-great grandchildren; special friend – Rhonda Miller of Hamersville, Ohio; five brothers – Gene Jones (Anna), Lonnie Jones (Edith), Scotty Jones, Mickey Jones (Kathy) and Kevin Jones (Tish) all of Georgetown, Ohio and many nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will be held at 1:00 P.M. Monday, September 16, 2024 at the Cahall Funeral Home in Georgetown, Ohio. Stan Davidson will officiate. Visitation will be from 11:00 A.M. – 1:00 P.M. Monday at the funeral home. Interment will be in the Shinkle Ridge Cemetery near Georgetown, Ohio.

Condolences may be sent to the family at: www.cahallfuneralhomes.com.

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