Passages: Summer 2025

Dr. Elissa May-Plattner
Trustee 1993-2011
Honorary trustee 2012-2025
April 20, 2025

Elissa Simpson May-Plattner (“Lissy”) departed this life on April 20, 2025, at the age of 90. She was born in Louisville, KY, in 1935. She graduated from Frankfort High School and Bennett Junior College in Poughkeepsie, NY. She earned a bachelor’s degree in journalism from the University of Kentucky, where she was a member of Kappa Kappa Gamma sorority and, as a debate champion, she traveled the country for competitions. She went on to get a master’s degree in history from Xavier University and a PhD from the University of Cincinnati.

She married Kenneth Plattner in 1959, and with their four children—Margaret, Denny, Andy, and Betsy—they made their home in northern Kentucky and Tampa, Florida. She taught grade school in her early years, eventually moving on to teach high school and college. For 20 years she taught English and literature at the University of Cincinnati, Clermont campus.

Lissy’s love for her family in Frankfort held true, and she was close to her beloved siblings, Maggie and Willie, frequently sailing the highway between Campbell County and Glenary Farm in Frankfort to spend time with them, both for business and for pleasure. She was deeply devoted to the memory of their parents, William H. and Betsy May. Her enduring love for her mother, in particular, was luminous. It was a devotion Lissy inspired in her own children and in her grandchild, Linton Elissa, whom she welcomed with such joy in 1998.

She was a great lover of gardens, with a soft spot for cosmos, zinnias, and bachelor’s buttons. You wouldn’t think spreading some garden soil on newspapers and broadcasting a couple packs of seeds over it would produce much, but under her hands, it produced a thing of country beauty every year. And every year, she waged an ongoing battle she called “Mowers versus Growers,” in which her morning glories would fall at least once per season to a careless weed-whipper.

She loved all of nature and introduced her daughter-in-law to the nature writer Sue Hubbell and the poet James Still, among others. Her adoring children fondly teased her about her fondness for “sticks and bugs.” For many years, a special treat in her schedule was the Elderhostel at Chautauqua Institution in New York. She may also have been Amtrak’s best customer, as she loved to travel out west by train, from exploring lighthouses along the Oregon coast to riding the rails through the Canadian Rockies.

Tall and beautiful, Lissy could have played the diva, but her nature was too kind, too light-hearted and self-deprecating. Yet she was also, in the old-school sense, a lady. She was never seen in trousers; in fact, the record does not show that she ever owned a pair. She navigated the paths of her life in knee-length khaki skirts and Keds, often with a salmon-colored sweater or jacket; on special occasions, like Linton’s christening, she adopted a pair of flats or sensible low heels.

Lissy was tremendously giving of her time. She served 12 years on the board at the University of Kentucky, 20 years on the board at Berea College, and on Kentucky’s Prichard Committee. During those years she was deeply honored to meet the Dalai Lama, Nobel Laureate Archbishop Desmond Tutu, and former president Jimmy Carter. In memory of Denny, she and Ken contributed to numerous causes, with the beneficiaries including Berea College, Northern Kentucky University, Hanover College, and Our Lady of Providence Senior Secondary School for Girls in Kwasi Buokrom, Ghana.

She was also involved in local and statewide politics, supporting candidates who could help move the state forward on education and social-justice issues. She served on the board of the Northern Kentucky Boys and Girls Club for many years.

Lissy was preceded in her passing by three of the people she loved most in the world: her elder son, Denny; her granddaughter, Linton, who called her Zumu; and her brother, William S. May. She is survived by her beloved husband, Kenny, and their children Margaret, Andy (Diana), and Betsy; her sister, Margaret; and her niece and nephews, Nan May, Bill May, B. Patterson (Jane), and Graydon Patterson (Marianne)

Those who would like to make a memorial gift in Lissy’s honor are encouraged to consider the Boys and Girls Clubs of Kentucky, 36 E. 10th Street, Newport, KY 41071.

Service is at the convenience of the family.

Dobbling, Muehlenkamp-Erschell Funeral Homes caring for Elissa and her family. Special condolences and memories may be given at www.dmefuneral.com.

Larry D. Shinn
College President 1994-2012
April 2, 2025

Dr. Larry D. Shinn, a visionary scholar of religion and transformative leader in higher education, passed away on April 2, 2025, at the age of 83. A man of purpose, compassion, and wisdom, Dr. Shinn leaves behind a profound legacy shaped by his intellectual rigor, moral clarity, and unwavering commitment to education, inclusivity, and service.

Born on January 16, 1942, in Alliance, Ohio, Dr. Shinn’s lifelong pursuit of knowledge and understanding began early. He graduated magna cum laude from Baldwin-Wallace College, earned his Master of Divinity summa cum laude from Drew University Theological School, and completed his Ph.D. in the History of Religions at Princeton University. His academic focus centered on Eastern religions and philosophies, leading to national recognition for his contributions to the study of Hinduism, Buddhism, and new religious movements. His notable works include Two Sacred Worlds, The Dark Lord, and Lustful Maidens and Ascetic Kings, as well as his co-editorship of The Perennial Dictionary of World Religions.

Dr. Shinn’s academic career spanned decades, beginning with fourteen years at Oberlin College, where he was named the William H. Danforth Professor of Religion. He later served as Dean and Vice President at Bucknell University before becoming the eighth president of Berea College in 1994. His 18-year tenure at Berea was marked by bold, mission-centered leadership that redefined the college’s approach to student learning, sustainability, and strategic growth.

Under Dr. Shinn’s leadership, Berea College flourished. He launched the Being and Becoming strategic plan, expanded global learning opportunities, strengthened academic and labor programs, and guided the college through the 2008 financial crisis while maintaining its historic commitment to tuition-free education. A champion of ecological responsibility, he founded the Sustainability and Environmental Studies program and led the development of Kentucky’s first LEED-certified building and the pioneering Ecovillage residential complex.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Dr. Shinn was a man deeply rooted in love-for learning, for justice, and for his family. He met his wife, Nancy, at Alliance High School, and their bond endured for 69 years, built on shared values and a mutual commitment to service. Together, they raised two daughters, Christie (Peter) and Robyn, and took immense joy in their grandchildren-Melina, Andrew, Dylan, Christopher, and Ethan-and great-granddaughter, Delilah.

Known by friends and colleagues as a “renaissance man” and “a force of nature,” Larry Shinn possessed a boundless curiosity and a contagious passion for life. Whether traveling, reading, playing cards, fishing, or teaching, he brought energy and generosity to everything he did. Even in retirement, he remained an active mentor, consulting for the Association of Governing Boards and authoring Strategic Thinking and Planning in Higher Education: A Focus on the Future (2017), helping institutions nationwide strengthen their mission-driven leadership.

Dr. Shinn once described his professional life’s work as rooted in three pillars: sustainability, student-centered learning, and strategic leadership. These values continue to echo in the halls of Berea College and in the lives of those he inspired.

A Celebration of Life will be held on June 7 at Union Church in Berea, Kentucky. In lieu of flowers, the family invites donations to The Larry and Nancy Shinn Fund for Education Abroad inspiring generations of Berea students to embrace learning opportunities worldwide. Details may be found at murial.life/larryshinn.

Dr. Larry D. Shinn lived a life of enduring impact-a legacy of thought, action, love, and leadership. May his memory be both a blessing and a beacon.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Larry, please visit our floral store.

Iva Brown ’53
April 7, 2025

Kitty Iva (Sublett) Brown, 94, was welcomed into Heaven on April 07, 2025.

Iva was preceded in death by her husband, Lee Brown, a former Clay County High School principal. She was also preceded in death by her parents, Chester and Eula (Bault) Sublett; her brothers, James Alford, Adrian, Herman, and Winfrey Dale “Dick”; her sisters, Faye Bennett and Mae Knifley; and half-sister, Annie Molly Sublett.

Iva was born May 2, 1930, on the Sublett family farm in Green County, Kentucky. She graduated from Berea College in 1953 with a registered nursing degree and dedicated over 30 years to her work as a public health nurse at the Clay County Public Health Department in Manchester, Kentucky. After the death of her husband, Iva moved from Oneida to Corbin, Kentucky, and then to Charlottesville, Virginia. She enjoyed gardening, cooking, quilting, and learning about nature and different places in our country and world.

Iva is survived by her three daughters, Cara Jane Muffly (David) of Lexington, Kentucky; Lee Ann Brown Adkins, of Charlottesville, Virginia; and Myla Sue Marley (Gene) of Fort Worth, Texas. She is also survived by seven grandchildren, Elizabeth Suzanne Dhummakupt (Adit) of Abingdon, Maryland; Brian Thomas Muffly (Milly) of Atlanta, Georgia; Scott Andrew Muffly (Alexandra) of Chesapeake, Virginia; Jonathan Daniel Adkins (Carson) of Katy, Texas; Allison Lee Adkins of Dallas, Texas; Jacob Tyler Marley and Amelia Bronwyn Marley of Fort Worth, Texas; and seven great-grandchildren, Alexander Lee and Oliver Edward Dhummakupt; Margo Frances Muffly; Eli Trotter and Dahlia Leigh Muffly; and Avery Pauline and Finan John Adkins. Iva is also survived by her brother, Eurijah ‘Rij’ Sublett (Geri), and brother-in-law, Leroy Knifley, both of Campbellsville, Kentucky; and nieces and nephews in the Brown, Daniel, Knifley, and Sublett families.

A memorial service will be held at House-Rawlings Funeral Home in London, Kentucky on Easter weekend, Saturday, April 19, at 11:00 A.M. Burial at the Brown family cemetery in Oneida will follow. Memorial contributions may be made to Samaritan’s Purse at www.samaritanspurse.org or Post Office Box 3000, Boone, North Carolina 28607.

Mae Keeter ’53
Feb. 4, 2025

Mae Corbin Keeter, 93, passed away in Greensboro, NC, on February 4, 2025. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 64 years, Jack Keeter.

Born February 12, 1931, in Franklin, NC, Mae was the daughter of the late Dewey and Minnie Williams Corbin. She was the sister of the late Dorothy Seagle, C.D. Corbin, Grady Corbin, and Mildred Williamson.

Mae graduated from Franklin High School and went on to earn a bachelor’s degree from Berea College and later a master’s degree from UNC-Charlotte, in addition to coursework at the University of Wyoming and UT-Austin.

A lifelong educator, Mae taught elementary school in Kentucky and Texas before joining the Salisbury-Rowan schools, where she taught third grade at Henderson Elementary and Overton Elementary until her retirement. She also served for several years afterward as a volunteer tutor.

Mae’s interests were many, and included sewing, reading, journaling, volunteering, and family travels. She was a firm believer in lifelong learning and was a member of AAUW. Mae was a longtime member of First Baptist Church Salisbury where she was a member of the King’s Daughters Sunday School class and enjoyed WMU and many church activities. Most of all, her life’s work was a devotion to teaching and nurturing her children and grandchildren.

Those left to cherish her memory are children Tammy Miller (Mark Miller) of Greensboro, Carolyn Burdette (Robert Burdette) of Churchville, VA, and Randy Keeter (Sarah Keeter) of Hickory; grandchildren Pete Miller (Emily Miller) of Monroe, Ben Miller (Jo Nixon) of Chicago, IL, Elizabeth Keeter (Shane Aaron) of Winston Salem, David Keeter of Hickory, Will Burdette of Salisbury, Jay Burdette (Grace Burdette) of Staunton, VA, and Timothy Burdette of Monterey, CA; and great-granddaughters Brinley Miller and Teagan Miller of Monroe, as well as nieces and nephews and extended family.

The family will receive friends at 11:30 a.m. on February 12 at Summersett Funeral Home in Salisbury. The funeral service will follow at 12:30 p.m. in the Summersett Chapel, with Dr. Steve Gandy and Rev. Brian Farmer of First Baptist Church Salisbury officiating. Interment will follow at 1:30 p.m. at the Salisbury VA National Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made to Berea College, 101 Chestnut St., Berea, KY 40403 or to First Baptist Church Salisbury, 223 N Fulton St, Salisbury NC 28144.

Summersett Funeral Home is serving the Keeter family. Online condolences may be made to www.summersettfuneralhome.com.

To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of Mae Corbin Keeter please visit our Sympathy Store.

Louise Roe ’53
Jan. 16, 2025

Hilda Louise (Austin) Roe was born on June 26, 1931, and passed January 16, 2025, at the age of93. She was born in Lenoir, North Carolina to Hazel Belle (Ledford) and Gaither Hill Austin. Shegraduated from Lenoir High School as valedictorian in 1949, and then from Berea College inBerea, Kentucky in 1953 with a bachelor s degree in Elementary Education. She was the first inher family to attend college, which inspired several of her siblings to do so as well, two of themalso attending Berea. She was encouraged to apply to Berea by her high school Latin teacher.Her first teaching job was in a three-room school in Harlan County, Kentucky. She later obtaineda master s degree in Elementary Education at the University of Wyoming-Laramie in 1958, andwhile there participated in a travel program for teachers funded by the Ford Foundation. She came to Harrison, MI. in 1956 to teach, encouraged by a friend who told her that inMichigan teachers made more money. She met her husband, Robert (Bob) Charles Roe inHarrison, introduced by a mutual friend, Shirley Miller. They were married in Harrison onAugust 23, 1957. She taught in Lansing, MI., while her husband obtained a degree atMichigan State University, as well as in Shepherd, MI. and Marietta, GA. Most of her careerwas spent teaching third grade in Harrison, specifically in Amble School. She and Bob had three children: Katherine (Kathy) (Husband Dyche) Anderson of Plymouth, MI; Janet (Husband Chris) Hershberger, Lansing, MI; and Austin (wife Peggy) Roe of Harrison, MI.They had five grandchildren: Bekki (Schmitt) and Abby Jankoviak (Kathy); and Sonia (Mertz),Alice, and Ross Roe (Austin). She also had five great grandchildren: Fritz and Katie Schmitt(Bekki and John Schmitt); Henry, Lucy, and Olivia Mertz (Sonia and Andrew Mertz). She is survived by her children, grandchildren, great grandchildren, two brothers: Tom (Carol)Austin and Kyle (Jean) Austin; two sisters Asilee (Collis) Nelson and Kate Wynn, several niecesand nephews, and grand-nieces and nephews. She is also survived by two sisters-in-law: MaryJean (Roe) Dwyer, and Jo Ann (Roe) Farabee. She was preceded in death by her parents, herloving husband Bob of 50 years (died February 26, 2008), as well as three brothers: Ledford,Gordon, and Robert. She was a long-time member of the United Brethren Church in Harrison. Her faith and familywere the most important things to her. She was also a member of the Harrison Women s Cluband Michigan Association of Retired School Personnel (MARSP) of Clare County for many years.She enjoyed traveling and saw most of the continental United States. Funeral services honoring Louise will be held Saturday, February 1, 2025, at 12:00 p.m. from HarrisonUnited Brethren Church, 250 East Main Street, Harrison, with Pastor Wendy Kindell officiating. Visitation will take place on Saturday, February 1, 2025, from 9:30 a.m. until time of service. Burialwill follow in late spring of 2025 at Hamilton Township Cemetery, Harrison. Memorial gifts in honor of Mrs. Roe may be considered to: Harrison United Brethren Church or Berea College. To share an online memory or condolence with Louise s family, please visit: www.clarkstocking.com. Arrangements for Mrs. Roeare entrusted with Clark-Stocking Funeral Chapel and Cremation Service (989)539-7810.

Blanche Victoria Allison Bakke ’54
Dec. 28, 2024

On December 28, 2024, Blanche Victoria Bakke passed away at Brightview Assisted Living in Severna Park, Maryland at the age of 93. Blanche was born in Brevard, North Carolina, the daughter of the late Ernest Carl and Victoria Moore Allison.

On June 19, 1955, Blanche married Winton E. Bakke, the love of her life, and they were married for almost 62 years until his death in 2017. She is survived by her two daughters, Constance Noble of Concord, MA and Susan Hughes (Ron) of Phoenix, MD, four grandchildren, Joshua Noble (Kaylan) of Carlisle, MA, Lauren Noble Grasso (Nicholas) of Madison CT, Emily Noble Davies (Sam) of Westford, MA, and Wes Hughes (Ashley) of Los Angeles, CA, and her great-grandchildren Alianna Noble and Aden Noble of Carlisle, MA, and Rachel Grasso of Madison, CT.

Blanche was predeceased by her one brother, Gerald Allison, and five sisters, Marie Whitmire Cunningham, Helen Whitmire, Millie Cunningham, Grace Lee Hall, and Edna Reid. She is survived by many nieces and nephews, including Dorothy Reid Case of Hendersonville, NC.

Blanche graduated from Brevard High School, Brevard, NC and from Berea College, Berea, KY with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Home Economics. She also had a Masters Equivalent in Education, and taught Home Economics in high school and middle school in Ohio and MD for 27 years.

Blanche and Win lived in Coshocton, OH for 12 years and 50 years in Chartwell in Severna Park, MD. They spent time each summer at their farm in North Dakota and at their home in Bethany Beach, DE.

Blanche volunteered with the 4-H Club, the Brownie Scouts, and Meals on Wheels. Some of her hobbies included entertaining friends and family, reading, genealogy, bridge, piano, tennis, and watching her favorite sports teams, the Orioles and the Ravens. She also loved to play Rummikub and Bingo with her wonderful friends at Brightview Senior Living. She was a member of the American Association of University Women (AAUW) for over 50 years and a member of Woods Memorial Presbyterian Church.

Private services will be held at a later date. Donations in her memory can be made to Meals on Wheels of Central Maryland, 515 South Haven St., Baltimore, MD 21224 or the charity of your choice. The family wishes to thank the staff at Brightview Severna Park for all their love and care for the past seven years.

Dr. Donald William Good ’55
March 6, 2025

Donald William Good died peacefully on March 6, 2025. He was born on August 13, 1933 in Winchester, Virginia to parents James Good and Daisy Hodson Good. Don was preceded in death by his parents, brother-in-law Richard McIntyre and sister-in-law Ann Douglas Good. He is survived by siblings Loma McIntyre (Richard deceased), Deloris Claycomb (Bud), Sarah Rodgers, James Good (Ann deceased), and Susan Good. He is also survived by many nieces and nephews. He graduated from John Handley High School in Winchester, Virginia. Owing to the generous educational benefactors Edith and Dudley Lichliter, Don was able to attend and receive an undergraduate degree from Berea College, Kentucky. He then received a Masters degree in English from Louisiana State University in Baton Rouge, Louisiana followed by a Ph.D from The Ohio State University English Department in Columbus, Ohio. Dr. Good held various positions at The Ohio State University including Associate Professor of English, Director of Freshman English, University Ombudsman, Liaison between main and regional campuses of the OSU English Departments and Associate Vice Provost and Secretary for the five Colleges of Arts and Sciences at OSU from which he retired in 1992. Noted for his quick wit and love of writing long newsletters, he ingratiated himself to faculty, staff and students alike. Don co-authored and published an English Handbook with Thomas Minnick and was both an honorary member of Phi Beta Kappa and Sphinx. Don was a very adventurous traveler, touring most continents in many exotic locations. His travel trips ranged from a trek in the Nepal mountains, a Nile river boat tour to the Valley of the Kings in Egypt, Peru, Southeast Asia, China, lndia, Eastern Europe, Russia, Iceland, Greenland as to others. He spoke often of the thrill a donkey ride to the bottom of the Grand Canyon brought him, as the donkeys preferred to walk right at the edge of the path as not to rub the rock face. Don was an extremely devoted patron of the arts. His love of opera, symphonic and chamber works allowed him to enjoy thousands of concerts across the country including Columbus, Cincinnati, Santa Fe, New York City, San Francisco, Chicago and more cities. Don especially enjoyed the many traditional summer visits from his sister Susan to attend the Cincinnati Opera. He was active on the original board of Opera Columbus. An avid collector of the fine arts, Don supported many Columbus galleries, up and coming artists, as well as collecting more widely known artists Aminah Robinson and Alice Schille. He acquired many paintings and sculptures from the active Santa Fe artist scene as well as collecting many beautiful things and ethnic art during his world travels. Don was a robust swimmer having swum on the swim team at Berea College. He spent many early mornings of his life effortlessly swimming laps to stay in shape. Also an accomplished baker, he prepared difficult recipes to present to the delight of his friends and family, only if they turned out perfectly. Gardening became a passion in later years as the house became surrounded with beautiful flowerbeds and native plants. Don wishes to acknowledge a few of many close, lifelong friends. Ronald Betz (Columbus, OH), Ruth Falor (Columbus, OH), James Siddens (Columbus, OH), Joseph and Gillian Hill (Yellow Springs, OH), Maria Callas (Aegean Sea) and best buddy and 40 year partner, James Detrick (Columbus, OH). Don s main wish to contribute to his memory is to support local artists in all their endeavors and expressions. He led by a very convincing example and that hope is his legacy can influence all of us to continue those efforts. Posted online on March 14, 2025 Published in Columbus Dispatch Step-by-step guide to planning a funeral Coping with grief when a traditional funeral isn’t possible How to write an obituary

James Leonard Greer ’55
March 24, 2025

James Leonard Greer, 92, passed away peacefully, surrounded by family, at SECU Hospice House in Smithfield, NC, on March 24, 2025.

Known to family and friends as Leonard, he was born on Howard’s Creek in Watauga County on June 22, 1932, to Lois Miller and Jacob “Roscoe” Greer. Leonard studied Agriculture at Berea College in Kentucky, and shortly after graduating in June of 1955, he proudly joined the United States Army, where he served with honor. Following his military service, Leonard worked in home construction. During this time, he became a devoted member of Bethelview Methodist Church, where his building expertise was put to good use in the construction of the church’s sanctuary and landscaping. Later, Leonard worked as a supervisor in Watauga County’s building maintenance program, a position he held until his retirement.

Leonard is survived by his devoted wife and best friend of nearly 30 years, Martha “Marny” Greer; his brother Johnny and wife Doris Greer; his brother Grant and wife Ethel Greer; and his sister Gail and her husband David Hayes. He also leaves behind his stepson John Cole and wife Wendy, along with three beloved grandsons, Harley, Tanner, and Braden Cole; and his stepson James Cole and wife Kim. He was predeceased by his siblings Lena Greer Norris, Elton Greer, Emma Mae Greer Kultgen, and Jack Greer.

Beyond his work and service, Leonard had a deep appreciation for craftsmanship and nature. He enjoyed building, gardening, and woodworking, and his love for Appalachian heritage led him to author the book Oral History and My Appalachia.

Funeral Services:

· Visitation: Saturday, April 5, 2025, from 1:45 PM to 2:45 PM at Bethelview Methodist Church (193 Ridge Rd, Boone, NC).

· Funeral Service: 3:00 PM at the same location.

· Interment: A private graveside service for family and friends will follow at Bethelview Cemetery.

Leonard set an example of a life well lived—a life full of faith, kindness, integrity, humility, and service to others. Though he is no longer with us, we know he will be remembered fondly, and it is our prayer that these memories bring lasting comfort and joy to all who knew him.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks that you consider making donations in Leonard’s memory to Berea College (https://www.berea.edu/giving) or SECU Hospice House (https://www.transitionslifecare.org/donate/).

Messages of condolence may be shared online at www.hamptonfuneralnc.com.

Hampton Funeral and Cremation Service is in charge of the arrangements.

Ella Ingle ’55
Jan. 1, 2025

Ella Capps Ingle, age 92, of Weaverville, went to be with the Lord on Saturday, March 1, 2025, at Harmony at Reynolds Mountain.

Mrs. Ingle was born on August 14, 1932, in Madison County to Ray Capps and Polly Thomas Cook. She was a 1950 graduate of Walnut High School and a graduate of Warren Wilson Junior College. Ella graduated from Berea College School of Nursing in 1955 and began her lifelong passion for nursing. Ella worked as a Registered Nurse at Oteen Veterans’ Administration Hospital in Asheville for 30 years. After retiring, Ella continued her nursing career at Highland Hospital in Asheville for five additional years. She loved serving others through nursing. That selfless service to others was not limited to her profession and did not end after her retirement. Ella was always there to lend a hand to anyone who needed a place to sleep, a home cooked meal, or just a kind word. Most especially, she was the heart of her family, designing each of her days around how she could lend a compassionate ear, a soothing voice, a helpful hand, and boundless energy to her children and grandchildren. Her family was her endmost pride and joy.

Ella was a member of Elkwood United Methodist Church where she remained active until her health declined and she entered assisted living. She proudly served as the organizer of the annual yard sale which was the church’s largest fundraiser every year.

Ella was also very involved in Beta Sigma Phi Sorority and cherished the lasting friendships she made as a result of that organization. She served as President of the Preceptor Alpha Iota chapter many times throughout the years. She was named Woman of the Year for 2014-2015 and continued her active involvement for over 40 years.

Ella loved her family and friends, her annual Berea College School of Nursing reunions, and the western North Carolina mountains.

In addition to her parents, Ella was preceded in death by her husband, Furman Margle Ingle, Jr.

Left to cherish her memory are her daughters, Andrea Tipton Clayton and husband Randall of Weaverville, and Susan Ingle Doyle and husband Brian of Clayton, NC; and grandchildren, Deanna Tipton of Candler, Michael Tipton of Weaverville, Ross Doyle of Nashville, TN, and Katherine Doyle of Winston-Salem, NC.

Funeral services will be held at 2:30 p.m., Tuesday, March 4, 2025, in the Chapel of West Funeral Home, 17 Merrimon Avenue, Weaverville, with Pastor David Sutphin officiating. Burial will follow at Ashelawn Gardens of Memory, 901 Aiken Road, Asheville, NC 28804.

The family will receive friends from 1:15 to 2:15 p.m., prior to the funeral service.

Serving as pallbearers will be Harley Ingle, Jr. of Lake Butler, FL, Brett Lisenbee of Marshall, Kenny McCurry of Asheville, and Wayne Tipton of Weaverville.

Flowers are welcome or memorials may be made online in memory of Ella Ingle to North Carolina Community Foundation for Hurricane Helene relief efforts specifically for Western North Carolina at https://nccommunityfoundation.org.

West Family Funeral Services is honored to be serving the Ingle family. Condolences may be offered to the family under her obituary at www.westfamilyfuneralservices.com.

Larry S. Saylor ’55
Dec. 26, 2024

Larry Saylor Obituary Larry Starnes Saylor, age 90, passed away at his home on December 26, 2024. He was born in Rose Hill, VA on May 29, 1934, son of the late Robert Levi and Lily Sage Saylor. He graduated from Berea College with a 4 year degree in Chemistry and completed one year of graduate studies at the University of Missouri. He honorably served in the United States Air Force from December 1956 to December 1958 with the 837th Air Base Group, Shaw Air Force Base, South Carolina. Larry was a retired chemist and worked for Celanese Coating Company for many years. Larry and his wife Maggie Jean were members of English Baptist Church. He was a very quiet and humble man who enjoyed the simple things in life. He spent time reading, cutting wood, tinkering with different things to see how they work, custom woodwork, discussing theology and his animals. He was very proud of his family and treasured time with them. He and Maggie Jean watched Gunsmoke because she liked it, but he preferred to be on the golf course playing a sport he loved. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his siblings Glenn, Julian, Bruce and Walter Saylor, Margie Montgomery and Lola Lee. Larry is survived by Maggie Jean, his wife of 56 years. 3 sons: John Saylor (Sarah) of Hickory, KY; Michael Saylor (Stephanie) of Tallahassee, FL and Daniel Saylor (Whitney) of Alta Monte Springs, FL 7 grandchildren: Macy Saylor, Morgan Saylor, Erin Truslow (Peyton), Stephen Saylor, Andrew Saylor, Norah Saylor and Millie Saylor Funeral services will be held at Trent-Dowell Funeral Home on Sunday, December 29, 2024, at 4 PM with visitation beginning at 2 PM. Burial with military honors will be held at the Kentucky Veterans Cemetery Central on Friday, January 3, 2025, at 8:30 AM. All times are central. To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Larry Starnes Saylor, please visit our floral store. Read More

Joyce Estridge ’56
April 4, 2025

Joyce Ramona Betler Estridge passed away Friday, April 4, 2025 at approximately 2:00 am. She was born May 16, 1934 on the family farm on Gilman Road, the eldest child of the late George Henry Betler and Mary Francis Suesli Betler. Her youngest sister, Katherin Ross, also preceded her in death on September 3, 2021. For five years she attended the one room-one teacher Marstiller School. Beginning in the sixth grade she began attending the Elkins schools graduating salutatorian of Elkins High School class of 1952. In 1956 she graduated with honors from Berea College, Berea Kentucky, with a B.A. degree in education and later went on to obtain a Masters of Education, from the University of Maryland. She taught in the public schools of Randolph County West Virginia, Tom Green County, Texas, and Prince Georges County, Maryland across four decades. On June 1, 1957 Joyce married Floyd G. Estridge, Jr., who survives. Also, surviving is her son, George Gilbert Estridge of Roanoke, Virginia, one granddaughter Lauren Taylor Wright and partner Jen of Bel Air, Maryland, two great grandsons, Timothy and Aiden Taylor of Bel Air, Maryland, one sister Carylon Tallman of Columbia, Maryland, one brother George Dewey Betler and wife Karen of Catonsville, Maryland, one brother in-law, Frederick Pross of Beverly, West Virginia, five nephews and numerous great nephews and nieces. She was a member of Holy Trinity Lutheran Church as well as the Prince Georges County and Maryland State Teachers Associations. An avid reader, amateur genealogist and hiker she enjoyed outdoor activities for as long as her health permitted. A graveside service will be conducted at 10:00 am Wednesday, April 9, 2025 at the Mountain State Memorial Gardens near Gilman. Rev. Ann Fretwell will officiate and interment will follow. In lieu of flowers contributions may be made to the Randolph County Humane Society, PO Box 785, Elkins, WV 26241 or The American Heart Association, West Virginia Affiliate, PO Box 12110, Charleston, WV 25302 in memory of Joyce. The Estridge family would like to thank the staffs of Mountain Memories Assisted Living & Retirement Center and West Virginia Caring for the care and support that they provided. The Tomblyn Funeral Home of Elkins is in charge of the arrangements for Joyce Ramona Betler Estridge. Condolences may be expressed to the family at www.tomblynfuneralhome.com.

CPT Thad W. Mills ’56
Dec. 16, 2024

Mr. Thad Wesley Mills, age 88, of Bellevue, WA, passed away Monday morning, December 16, 2024. He was born July 22, 1936, in Highlands, NC, a son of the late Dallas and Ethel Cloer Mills. Thad is survived by his wife of 65 years, Barbara Hart Mills; his three sons, Gregory, David and Stephen; eight grandchildren, Jesse, Dallas, Carolina, Brenna, Haley, Nathan, Katy and Drew; and four great-grandchildren, Raelynn, Wesley, Aurora and Asher. Thad grew up a poor farm kid in western North Carolina. If his life were a movie, it would be titled “Farm Boy to Fly Boy.” Coming from a poor family, and being a stellar student, he was able to get financial support and attend Berea college in Kentucky where he majored in agriculture. His Dad wanted him to be a county farm agent, but in college he discovered Navy ROTC and that the Navy might want to teach him how to fly. That was it…after college, he attended Aviation Officer Candidate School in Pensacola, FL, then earned his Navy wings of gold. He excelled as a naval officer and in the course of his 24-year career he served as commanding officer of VP-48, head of plans division for NATO in Oslo Norway and achieved the rank of Navy Captain/O6. Thad’s family also enjoyed sharing in his adventures and got to live in all kinds of fun places, such as Oslo Norway, where they made memories and friendships that will last forever. After retiring from the Navy, Thad flew as a corporate pilot serving in such positions as Chief Pilot for Seattle Jet Center and as a personal pilot for high-profile individuals in the Seattle area. His wife, Barbara, was able to join Thad on many of these trips continuing a tradition of traveling together and experiencing new and interesting places! Retiring at the age of 70 from a storied career in aviation, Thad was able to focus more on being “Papaw” to the grandkids and loved hosting “cookouts” with halibut and flank steak at his house. At the end of his life, his wife Barbara served as a tireless and dedicated caretaker, ensuring that everything possible was done to provide the best-possible quality of life for Thad. His big personality and seemingly endless list of stories will be missed by his family and friends, but their memories of him will live on. In remembrance of Thad’s life, the family asks that any charitable donations be made to Samaritan’s Purse (https://www.samaritanspurse.org). A memorial service will be held from 3:00 to 4:00 PM Saturday, 1-11- 2025 at Saint Andrew’s Lutheran Church, 2650 148th Ave SE

Donald C. Baucom Fd. ’53, ’57
Feb. 22, 2024

Donald Calvin Baucom, 90, formerly of Spruce Pine, North Carolina, passed away Wednesday, January 22, 2025, at Clover Hill Senior Living, Maryville, Tennessee. Born in Tobaccoville, North Carolina, he was the son of William Vatchel and Mary Nixon Baucom. Don is survived by his wife of 44 years, Doris Bost Baucom of Spruce Pine, NC, a brother, William Charles Baucom of Pilot Mountain, NC; three children from a previous marriage; Chris Baucom (Helen) of Clemmons, NC, Carol Baucom Houser (Craig) of Knoxville, TN and Chanon Baucom Landenberg (Robert) of Loudon, TN; five grandchildren, William, Katie, Sarah, Bobby and Jesse and six great-grandchildren, a step-son Michael Teague (Nadine) of Spruce Pine, NC, two step-grandchildren, Tonya and Devin, and one step-great-grandchild. Don graduated from Berea College, Berea, KY in 1957. He enlisted in the U.S. Army in 1956, completing Officer Candidate School, serving over eleven years, and retiring as a Captain in 1967. He worked for the Soil Conservation Service and then completed post graduate study at North Carolina State University and the University of Tennessee at Knoxville before contributing to the North Carolina education system as a teacher at various schools, a teacher and administrator with Mayland Technical College and retiring as principal of Mitchell High School in Ledger, North Carolina. After his second retirement he served seven years as administrator for the First Presbyterian Church of Spruce Pine, organized and chaired the Deer Park Lake Property Owners Association and always helped many others. Funeral services officiated by Rev. Michael Poulos will be held at 2:00 p.m., Saturday, February 1, 2025, at First Presbyterian Church of Spruce Pine, 970 Greenwood Road, Spruce Pine, NC 28777. The family will receive friends from 1:00 until 2:00 p.m. prior to services at the church. A private burial will be held for the family following the service. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorials be made to First Presbyterian Church of Spruce Pine, online at www.firstpressprucepine.org or by mail to P.O. Box 764, Spruce Pine, NC 28777, Berea College, online at www.berea.edu/give or by mail to Berea College, CPO 2216, Berea KY 40404, or Mitchell High School, 416 Ledger School Rd, Bakersville, NC 28705. Words of comfort may be e-mailed to the family by going to the website; www.webbfh.com, selecting Donald Baucom s name and then you may sign his guestbook. Webb Funeral Home has been entrusted with the arrangements for Mr. Baucom and is honored to be serving the Baucom family. Mr. Baucom s obituary has also been posted on Facebook for viewing.

Dr. James Archie Gibbs ’57
Feb. 22, 2025

James Archie “Jim” Gibbs

December 31, 1935 – February 22, 2025

Posted on February 24, 2025 at 3:00 PM • 0 Comments

James Archie “Jim” Gibbs, 89, of London, Kentucky, passed away Saturday, February 22, 2025.  Born December 31, 1935, in Corbin, Kentucky, he was the son of the late Matthew and Addie Gibbs.

He graduated from Corbin High School.   He went on to attend Berea College where he met and married his wife of sixty-four years, Shirley Anne Gibbs.

After graduating from Berea College, James attended Ohio State University where he received his Masters of Education. James continued his education at Oklahoma State University where he received his Doctorate of Education. After completing his schooling, James was a Professor of Education for 20 years at Western Kentucky University in Bowling Green, Kentucky.

James was a lifelong educator and enjoyed most of all spending time with his three children with whom he shared his love of B Western movies, gardening, reading, and fishing. James’ best-loved days were spent in the company of family and friends, especially those where he was “Papaw Jim” to his many grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

In addition to his father and mother, James was preceded in death by his wife, Shirley Anne Gibbs, and siblings: Luther Gibbs, Matthew Gibbs, Paul Gibbs, Thomas Gibbs, Ruby Parmen Jarrell, Edna Parks, and Edith Eaton.

James is survived by his sister, Peggy (Tom) Darnell of Louisville, Kentucky; his children and grandchildren: Roger (Teressa) Gibbs, James D. Gibbs, Hannah Gibbs; James Luther (Tammie) Gibbs, Alisha (Joseph) Sanford, Kyle Gibbs; Gary (Debbie) Gibbs, Jacob (Alexandra) Gibbs, Duncan (Miranda) Gibbs, and Hadley (Isaiah Blackwell) Gibbs; and his great-grandchildren: Egan Gibbs, Camilla Gibbs, Tristin Gibbs, and Rex Sanford.

Funeral services will be held at 1:00 P.M. Wednesday, February 26, 2025, in the Hart Funeral Home Chapel with Bobby Joe Eaton and Roger Gibbs officiating.  Burial will follow in A.R. Dyche Memorial Park in London, Kentucky, with Alisha Sanford, Kyle Gibbs, Jacob Gibbs, James D. Gibbs, Hannah Gibbs, Duncan Gibbs, Hadley Gibbs, Joseph Sanford, Alexandra Gibbs, Miranda Gibbs, and Isaiah Blackwell serving as pallbearers; honorary pallbearers will be Egan Gibbs, Camilla Gibbs, Tristin Gibbs, and Rex Sanford.

The family will receive friends from 11:00 A.M. – 1:00 P.M. Wednesday at Hart Funeral Home, located at 1011 Master Street Corbin, KY 40701.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Laurel Village activity fund at 815 N. Mill Street London, KY 40741.

R. Mason Morrison ’57
April 13, 2024
Obituary Unavailable

Betty Ruth Hannah Rector ’57
Dec. 15, 2024

Mrs. Betty Ruth Hannah Rector, age 90 of Madison, Indiana and formerly of Dupont, entered this life on February 27, 1934 in Maryville, Tennessee. She was the loving daughter of the late Ben and Mae C. Baumgardner Hannah. She graduated from Berea College in 1957 with a bachelor’s degree in home economics. She was the loving mother of two sons, Douglas and Stuart, and two daughters, Regina and Lynda. She moved to Madison, Indiana in 1975 and married William Rector on December 7, 1983 in Madison. She served as the youth director for Ohio Valley Opportunities for 13 years, in addition to her previous tenure as a home economics teacher. Betty also liked to substitute teach. She was of the Methodist faith. She enjoyed quilting and loved spending time with her family, especially her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Betty died on Sunday, December 15, 2024, at 1:38 a.m. at the Swiss Villa Nursing & Rehab Center in Vevay, Indiana.

A LOVING FAMILY

Betty will be missed by her loving sons, Douglas Morrison (widower of Diana) of Madison, Indiana, Stuart Morrison and his wife, Libby of Lexington, Indiana; her loving daughters, Regina Morrison Newman and her husband Robert of Memphis, Tennessee, Lynda Morrison White (widow of Steve) of Dupont, Indiana; her brother, Ben Hannah and his wife Brenda of Madison, Indiana; her sister, Joyce Fields (widow of Aubrey) of Maryville, Tennessee; her grandchildren, Daniel, Jack (Danielle), Sam, Patric (Jessica), and Zachary (Alyssa); her great-grandchildren, Collynns Marie, Asher Alan, Taytum Marshall, and Kasey; her stepsons, Michael Rector and his wife Annika of Charlestown, Indiana, Dana Rector and his wife Holly of Atlanta, Georgia; four step grandchildren; several nieces, nephews and other relatives. She was preceded in death by her father, Ben Hannah, her mother, Mae C. Baumgardner Hannah, and her husband, William Rector, died August 31, 1997.

MEMORIAL CEREMONY

Memorial services will be conducted on Saturday, December 28, 2024, at 12:00 noon at the Morgan & Nay Funeral Centre, 325 Demaree Drive in Madison, Indiana. Interment will follow in the Dupont Cemetery in Dupont, Indiana.

VISITATION

Friends may visit Saturday, December 28, 2024 from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service at the Morgan & Nay Funeral Centre, 325 Demaree Drive in Madison, Indiana.

MEMORIAL EXPRESSIONS

Memorial contributions may be made to the American Heart Association. Cards are available at the Morgan & Nay Funeral Centres of Madison and Hanover. Online condolences, remembrances, and memorials can be left at www.morgan-nay.com

Helen York ’58
Feb. 19, 2025

Helen C. York, 88, of Russell Springs, KY passed away Wednesday, February 19, 2025 at her residence. She was born on July 9, 1936 in Bliss, KY, a daughter of the late Mary Hughes Claycomb and Herbert Ray Claycomb. Mrs. York was dedicated to working for the Lord. She was very involved in church activities at Columbia Church of Christ and never missed an opportunity to go to services. She loved her church family and always tried to live as God would want her to. She was a registered nurse for 40 years graduating from Berea College School of Nursing in 1958 and worked at the hospital and nursing home in Columbia until her retirement in 1998. While at Berea she met her husband, Vernon, and they celebrated their 58th wedding anniversary before his passing in 2021. She was a caring and compassionate person who loved everyone and was loved by everyone who knew her. The most important thing to her was pleasing God and doing His will. SURVIVORS: 2 daughters: Rhonda Holt (Dane) of Clovis, New Mexico and Laverne Blair (Steve) of Columbia, KY 1 son: Douglas York (Jacquelyn) of Russell Springs, KY 4 grandchildren: Amanda Holt of Las Vegas, NV, Kristina Holt of Clovis, NM, Jonathan Burton of Russell Springs, KY and Dillon York of Vicco, KY (Perry County) 1 great-grandchild: Dane Gonzales of Las Vegas, Nevada In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Vernon York; three brothers: Bobby, David and William Claycomb; and a grandson, Christopher Burton. Funeral Service: Saturday, March 1, 2025 at 2:00pmCT at Wilson Funeral Home, 391 East Steve Wariner Drive, Russell Springs, KY with Bro. P.J. Hicks officiating Interment: Wilkerson Cemetery, Russell Springs, KY Visitation: After 1:00pmCT on Saturday, March 1st. Wilson Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Annette Dowdy ’59
Dec. 10, 2024

Annette C. Dowdy, 87, of Kearney, NE passed away peacefully on Tuesday, December 10, 2024 at St. Luke’s Good Samaritan Society in Kearney. A Celebration of Life will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, February 15, 2025, at Westminster United Presbyterian Church in Minden with Rev. Polly Deppen-Williams officiating. The service will be streamed to the church’s YouTube page. Private family inurnment will be held at a later date. Memorials in Annette’s honor are kindly suggested to Berea College, Kentucky, or to Westminster United Presbyterian Church in Minden. Arrangements are under the care of Craig Funeral Home in Minden.

Annette Collins Dowdy was born on February 15, 1937 in Woodville, Alabama to Arthur Douglas Collins and Mary Vera (Hodges) Collins. She graduated from Woodville High School with the Class of 1955. She then graduated from Berea College with a degree in Nutrition in 1960. She was united in marriage to Robert (Bob) Hedley Dowdy on September 6, 1958, and they shared 66 wonderful years of adventures together.

Annette briefly called Lexington, Kentucky and East Lansing, Michigan home as Bob pursued graduate degrees. They ultimately settled in New Brighton, Minnesota. As her children grew, she was an adult educator with the University of Minnesota and Hennepin Technical College.

Upon retirement, she and Bob wintered in Destin, Florida where she finally returned to the warm weather she loved. They spent summers in Kearney. Whether in Minnesota, Nebraska, or Florida, Annette was active in local quilt guilds and loved creating quilts for family, friends, and the Quilts of Valor program. She was an active member of Presbyterian Church of the Way in Shoreview, MN, Destin Methodist Church in Destin, FL, and Westminster United Presbyterian Church in Minden. She believed in serving the Lord in all areas of church life.

In addition to quilting, Annette enjoyed playing (and winning) games with family and friends. She loved fresh flowers, fresh fruit, and seeing the world. Spending time with her family brought her great joy—she spent many years researching family genealogy on both her and Bob’s side of the family.

She was preceded in death by their infant son David Lee Dowdy; her parents; her stepmother Louisa Collins; her siblings, Gladys Collins Byrd Barclay, Dr. Arthur Carl Collins, Sr., Dr. Wyatt Eugene Collins, Sr., and Nancy Collins Helms.

Those left to cherish her memory include her husband; her daughters Sharon Rees (Alan) of Kearney, and Linda Youberg (John) of Gulf Breeze, FL; four grandsons, Collin Rees (Johanna Bozuwa) of New Gloucester, ME, Zachary Rees (Genna) of Jonesboro, AR, Mason Youberg, of Cocoa Beach, FL, and Finn Youberg of Duluth, MN; one great-grandson, Fletcher Rees; in-laws Richard “Dick” Dowdy (Carol), and Steve Helms; as well as a host of extended relatives and close friends.

Tributes and memories can be shared with the family at www.craigfunerals.com.

To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of Annette C. Dowdy please visit our Sympathy Store.

Gail Ross ’59
Jan. 23, 2025

CHESAPEAKE, VA- Gail Parsons Ross, 88, born on September 11, 1936, in Parsons, WV to Paul Alton Parsons, Sr. and Jocie Lantz Parsons, passed away peacefully on January 23, 2025 surrounded by loved ones. Gail met her husband at Berea College, Berea, KY, where she earned her Bachelor s degree. She earned her Master s at Old Dominion University while teaching. She dedicated her life to education and service. A passionate educator, she taught for almost 30 years and touched countless lives with her kindness, patience, and unwavering commitment to her students. Gail was also a cherished member of Westhaven Baptist Church where she faithfully served in various roles, including the choir, various boards, and committees. Later in life, Gail pursued a career in real estate, where she found joy in helping families find their dream homes. Her warmth and professionalism made her a trusted and respected agent in the community. Gail was predeceased by her loving husband of 62 years, Forrest Ron Ross. Left to cherish her memory are her daughters, Lycia Phipps James (Drew) and Ronda J. Ross (Cindy); sisters, Joann P. Criss, Robyn Mary Parsons (Bill), and Marlyn Stamey; brothers, Paul Alton Parsons, Jr. (Barbara) and Jared M. Parsons; grandchildren, Cameron Gail Phipps and Remy Forrest Phipps. Nieces and nephews, Tammy Parsons Sharpe (Garnie), Tommy Parsons (Melissa), Davilee Criss Kadrlik (Ben), Angela Criss, Michael Parsons (Shannon), Leslie Parsons, Brendon Few, Donna Harris (Tandy), Tracy Ross and Troy Ross as well as extended family members, dear friends, colleagues, and former students. Gail deeply loved her family and cherished the time she spent with them. She had a special place in her heart for the Outer Banks of North Carolina, where she found joy and peace during family vacations, making precious memories with loved ones. Gail will be remembered for her kindness, sense of humor, generosity and for the profound impact she had on those who knew her. A memorial service will be held on Saturday, February 8th at 11am with reception to follow in the social hall, at Westhaven Baptist Church, 4900 Caroline Ave. in Portsmouth, VA. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to Westhaven Baptist Church.Arrangements are entrusted to Sturtevant Funeral Home, Portsmouth Blvd. Chapel. www.SturtevantFuneralHome.com

George Peters, III ’70
Feb. 2, 2025

George (Joe) Peters III, 81 of Lexington, Kentucky, passed away on February 2, 2025. Joe, beloved husband, father, and grandfather, was born in Newport News, Virginia on October 17, 1943. He served in the U.S. Air Force from 1963-1966, during the Vietnam War. Following his honorable discharge, He pursued and was awarded a degree in physics from Berea College. He spent his career working for Kentucky Utilities until his retirement. After retirement, Joe began his second career building homes all over Lexington and the surrounding areas for Habitat for Humanity. A lifelong athlete, Joe enjoyed playing tennis, skiing, exploring caves, table tennis, kayaking, etc. Joe is preceded in death by his mother and father, his brothers Bill, Mike and his sister Betsy, and his late wife Pam. Joe is survived by his loving wife of 22 years Darlene, sons; George, Michael and Tommy, daughters; Julie, Sarah and Megan, and, and his grandchildren George, Charlie, Dorothy, Callista, Elayna, and Jack. Services will be held on Thursday, February 6, 2025 at St. Luke Church located at 2351 Alumni Drive, Lexington, Kentucky. Public visitation will be from 10:30 AM -12:30 PM with a memorial service directly following. Burial will be at 2:30 PM at Camp Nelson National Cemetery.

Corbett Wayne Byrd ’71
Sept. 27, 2024

Corbett “Wayne” Byrd, age 76, widower of Linda (Estes) Byrd, of Harrodsburg died Friday, September 27, 2024 at Ephraim McDowell Regional Hospital in Danville, KY. Wayne was born April 8, 1948 in Danville, KY, to the late Corbett S. and Lola (Phillips) Byrd. He was a retired Tax Administrator for the Kentucky Department of Revenue. Wayne was a member of Harrodsburg Baptist Church, Honorable Order of Kentucky Colonels, PI Gamma MU Honor Society at Berea College and was the Treasurer of The Harrodsburg Foundation. He enjoyed Genealogy. He was also the former Mercer County Tennis Coach and State Tennis Doubles Champion.

He is survived by one daughter: Christine (Bubba) Briscoe and one son: Michael Byrd and one grandchild: Brandon Briscoe.

He is preceded in death by his half brothers: Stanley and Donald Boyd, and half sisters: Rema Byrd Langley and Opal Byrd Selby.

The funeral will be held at 1pm on Tuesday October 1, 2024 at Ransdell Funeral Chapel, 345 E Lexington Street, Harrodsburg, KY with Jonathan Johnston and Leonard Marr officiating. Burial will follow in Spring Hill Cemetery, Harrodsburg KY. Visitation will be Tuesday October 1, 2024 from 11am-1pm at Ransdell Funeral Chapel.

Pallbearers: Roy Turley, Bubba Briscoe, Michael Byrd, Brandon Briscoe, David Grieve and Steven Thorton. Honorary Pallbearers: Sunday School Class.

Memorials are suggested to be made to Harrodsburg Baptist Foundation, 312 S Main St, Harrodsburg, KY 40330.

Arrangements by Ransdell Funeral Chapel, where expressions of sympathy may be sent to the family on Wayne’s Tribute Wall at www.ransdellfuneralchapel.com

Nancy Ruth Kittinger ’71
Feb. 25, 2025

Nancy Ruth Herrin Kittinger, age 75, passed away suddenly on Tuesday, February 25, 2025 at Brooke Army Medical Center in San Antonio, Texas.

She was born on July 29, 1949, daughter of the late Lem & Thelma (Hayes) Herrin. She was a 1967 graduate of Shopville High School and a 1973 BS graduate from Berea College.

After college, she and her husband, Robert Kittinger, joined the Army and were stationed in Bad Hersfeld, Germany for 2 ½ years where her daughter Adrienne was born. She was active in the Army reserves for over 20 years and achieved the rank of Master Sargeant. She also continued to work for the Department of Defense as an Army budget analyst until her retirement. She lived mostly in San Antonio, Texas but also in Wichita, Kansas, Las Vegas, Nevada, and Oceanside, California.

Nancy enjoyed traveling and cruised extensively with Adrienne (and her sisters) to several countries including Australia, New Zealand, Tasmania, Canada, England, Ireland, Scotland, France, Germany, Ecuador, Austria, Switzerland, Holland, Turkey, Greece, Italy, Monaco, Croatia, Netherlands, Mexico, Bahamas, Puerto Rico, many Caribbean islands and most of the US states.

She is survived by her daughter, Adrienne Kittinger of San Antonio, Texas. Adreinne was not only her daughter but her best friend and constant companion. She is also survived by two sisters, Nelva Anne Herrin of Shopville, Kentucky and Carol Sue Herrin Fischer (Edwin) of Petersburg, West Virginia. Also surviving is one aunt, Darlene Hayes of Somerset, Kentucky and many cousins who will miss her.

Visitation will be on Thursday evening from 5 to 7 at Pulaski Funeral Home. A funeral service will be held on Friday morning at 11 at the Pulaski Funeral Home with Brother Gerald Ashley presiding. Burial will be in the Randall Herrin Cemetery at Shopville.

The family of Mrs. Kittinger will receive friends at the Pulaski Funeral Home on Thursday March 6th from 5 to 7 p.m.

Pulaski Funeral Home is in charge of all arrangements.

Georgia Rigsby ’71
March 7, 2025

Georgia Leah (Hoffman) Rigsby, born February 12, 1949, in Ashland, KY, passed away at home in Nicholasville, KY on March 7, 2025. Georgia married her high school sweetheart Allan Rigsby on January 26, 1972, and together they raised their only Daughter Angela L. (Rigsby) Roberts in Ashland KY.

Georgia received her BA at Berea College in Berea Kentucky and later obtained a Master’s Degree from Morehead State University.

She spent the 1980’s as a stay-at-home mom, and in the 1990’s began working for the State of Kentucky as a Social worker focusing on foster care and Adoption until her retirement.

Georgia was predeceased by both parents, Martin F and Louise (Cossett) Hoffman as well as her Husband Allan Rigsby, she is survived by her Brother, Marty Hoffman, her daughter, Angela (Dennis) Roberts of Nicholasville and her furbaby Cariad and Grandpuppy Sadie.

Georgia was always an independent thinker, often questioning the commonly accepted logic and challenging anyone to see more possibilities by opening their minds to the unconventional.

Her unique outlook on the world, but mostly her love for all those she called friends, will be missed.

Family and friends are invited to gather at Milward’s Celebration Center of Lexington, 1509 Trent Boulevard in Lexington, on Wednesday, March 12, 2025, from 5:00-6:30 pm. Service will take place at 7:00 pm.

James Gregory Butt ’90
Feb. 1, 2025

James Gregory “Greg” Butt, 57, passed away at his home on February 1, 2025, in Somerset, KY. Greg Butt was born on June 15, 1967 in Somerset, KY, to Jim Butt and Shirley (Flanery) Butt. Greg graduated from Somerset High School in 1985 and went on to earn a Bachelors Degree from Berea College in 1990. He spent most of his career in retail management at Lowe’s, in Somerset. Greg in addition to spending every spare moment with Donna, his beloved wife of 33 years, was an avid golfer, loved watching NASCAR, attending races, but his notable side passion was of University of Louisville sports. Greg was beloved by his nieces and nephews that viewed him as the loving playful uncle of whom was a cornerstone to their childhood. Greg and his team lead the Somerset High School Briar Jumpers to their last KY basketball high school sweet sixteen appearance. This lead him to Berea College where he played basketball, and where he met the love of his life, Donna. Greg married Donna (Sabino) Butt in Cincinnati, Ohio in 1992, and have lived in Somerset ever since. Greg is survived by Donna Butt – wife; Shelia Ladd-Holt – sister (Steven); Shirley Flanery Butt – mother; Lil Sabino, mother-in-law; Victor Sabino – brother-in-law (Linda); Cheri Potts – sister-in-law; Nicholas Sabino – brother-in-law (Jennifer); Terri Sabino Gattringer (Gerald) – sister-in-law; Dr. Creighton (Ladd) Prosser – niece (Max); JT Ladd – nephew (Julia); Jake Potts – nephew (Ansley); Jesse Potts – nephew (Emma); Nicholas Malsbury – nephew; Nicklas Gattringer – nephew; Gabriella Sabino – niece; Ivanna Sabino – niece; Vito Sabino – nephew; Natalie Holt – niece (Meredith); Olivia Holt – niece Isaiah Davis (honorary nephew); Isabella Davis (honorary niece). Greg is preceded in death by his father Jim Butt; Victor Sabino Sr., father-in-law; Jeff Potts, brother-in-law. The family will receive friends from 5-8 PM Friday, February 7, 2025 at Morris & Hislope Funeral Home. The family will also receive friends after 10:30 AM Saturday until time for mass at St. Mildred’s Catholic Church. Catholic Mass Service will be held at 11 AM Saturday, February 8, 2025 at St. Mildred’s Catholic Church with Fr. Carlos Martinez officiating. St. Mildred’s Catholic Church – 203 South Central Avenue, Somerset, KY 42501 Burial will be in Science Hill Cemetery. A celebration will be held at the O’Bryan Center at St. Mildred’s following the mass and burial on Saturday. The family requests expressions of sympathy take the form of donations to St. Mildred’s Sister Marty Conrad’s Outreach Center. Donations may be mailed in C/o Morris & Hislope Funeral Home P.O. Box 159 – Science Hill, Kentucky 42553 Morris & Hislope Funeral Home is honored to assist the family with arrangements. To send flowers to the family of Greg Butt, please visit Tribute Store. Published on February 3, 2025 Honor with Flowers In Memory of Greg

Wanda L. Nelson ’99
Feb. 22, 2025

Wanda Nelson, a loving mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend, passed away peacefully at home on February 22, 2025, in Lenoir City, Tennessee, at the age of 75. Born on October 3, 1949, in Washington, D.C., Wanda’s journey through life was marked by her deep faith, kindness, and unshakable devotion to those she loved.

Growing up surrounded by her siblings, Wanda had a warm smile and an adventurous spirit that made her loved by everyone who knew her. Her early years shaped her into a person with an incredible zest for life, always ready to lend a helping hand to anyone in need. As an adult, she married and moved to Arizona, where she raised her two children, Jenny and Jim, instilling in them the same values of compassion, generosity, and love that defined her own life.

Wanda’s years as a homemaker and nurse was a testament to her caring and compassionate nature. After earning her nursing degree from Berea College and EKU in Kentucky, she worked at St. Thomas Hospital in Nashville, Tennessee, where she touched lives with her heart for service. Wanda was known for her unwavering kindness, always willing to go above and beyond to help others, whether in her professional life or in her personal relationships.

Four years ago, after battling with heart disease and stroke, Wanda moved in with her daughter, where she spent her final years surrounded by the love of her family. In her last days, she found comfort in the laughter and joy of her family and friends, the companionship of her cat, and the beauty of her flower garden. She cherished the simple pleasures of life, including watching her beloved birds and conversations with friends and loved ones.

Wanda is survived by her two children, Jennifer Goins (spouse Joseph) and James Nelson (spouse Krystal); her sister, Dawn Woods (spouse Frank); and her seven grandchildren: Emma, Jack, Bailey, Josh, Brittney, Jonah, and Riley. She is also survived by her nieces, their children and friends who were touched by her generous heart and loving nature.

Wanda’s life was a true reflection of her love for Jesus, her family, and her community. She will be deeply missed but forever remembered for her unwavering faith, kindness, and the impact she had on everyone around her. A celebration of her life will be held in the Smith East Hall Chapel on March 29th, 2025. The family will receive friends from 4-4:30 with a service starting at 4:30.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Samaritan’s Purse, an organization Wanda supported, in honor of her selfless spirit. Rest in peace, Mom. You will forever be in all of our hearts. Condolences may be share at www.SmithFuneralandCremation.com. Smith Funeral and Cremation Service, Maryville, 865-983-1000 is servicing the family.

Kristen L. Sanford
Jan. 30, 2025

Kristen Leann Sanford, 25, of Cincinnati, Ohio (formerly of Cowen) passed away suddenly on January 30, 2025. She was born on February 20, 1999, in Summersville, WV the daughter of Larry D. Sanford and Kelly Dodrill. Kristen was a 2017 graduate of Webster County High School and a graduate of Berea College in Kentucky. She was a student at the University of Cincinnati School of Law. She was preceded in death by her grandfathers Carl Sanford and Charlie Dodrill and grandmother Roma Jean Dodrill. In addition to her parents, she is survived by her grandmother, Justine Heck; and brother Ronnie Dodrill of Craigsville, as well as several aunts, uncles and cousins. Kristens wishes for cremation have been honored. No services have been scheduled at this time. Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.morrisfuneralhomecowenwv.com. Services entrusted to the care of Morris Funeral Home.