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Ellis Mortuary’s current obituaries show the services entrusted to us. Our funeral home has had the privilege of serving families in Indianapolis, IN for more than 20 years. You can count on us to deliver hands-on assistance and support to put you at ease during your time of need.

Michael Sanford

Elder Michael C. Sanford, a Pentecostal servant leader and dedicated family man, transitioned from earth to glory Wednesday, September 13, 2023 at age 72. Michael Corwin Sanford was born June 24, 1951, in Chicago, IL to Annie Laura Sanford and Charles Vanderbilt.

When not in Chicago with his mother, Michael grew under the watchful care of Mother Martha Duncan. It was during these impressionable years that Michael developed an early appreciation for work ethic, decorum and order, the culinary arts, and most importantly, the value of family.

Throughout Michael’s life, he nurtured his strong desire to go to church. Elder would lovingly recall many nights walking the streets of southside Chicago for hours going from church to church to experience the anointed services at Greater Harvest, and the broadcast hour of renowned artists such as Clay Evans and Milton Brunson. Upon his return to Indianapolis in his teen years, he inquired where he could find a “sanctified” church. He was directed to Christ Temple Apostolic Church of Indianapolis, where he was born again of water and spirit according to Scripture on May 12, 1966. It was at Christ Temple Apostolic where his love for God’s people and church work blossomed.

His passion to serve God and His people birthed a ministry that would leave an indelible mark on countless lives. Young Michael, on fire for the Lord, knew that he was set apart for a purpose. Not only was he in advanced classes, it was not uncommon to find Michael with fellow youth members in the Shortridge High School cafeteria unabashedly speaking on the goodness of God.

Under the tutelage of Bishop James E. Tyson, pastor of Christ Church Apostolic, Michael would show initiative and exemplary leadership skills. He would go on to become the Chancel Choir director, the youth leader, the radio broadcast announcer, and a member of the ministers’ alliance, to name a few of the ministries he found joy in serving. However, he knew there was a missing element to his ministry. He often spoke of how cousins, mothers and even Bishop pointed him in the direction of the talented and fiery pianist from Michigan, Patricia E. Scott. She was the balance and push he needed to expand his work for the Lord. From this union four exceptionally gifted children were born: Carla Lanette, Mary Anne, Michelle Elaine, and Allison Yvonne.

Elder Sanford’s life and character were centered around education and salvation. While acquiring his undergraduate degree from Ball State University, he and his brothers and sister in Christ launched a campus ministry that is still thriving today, 50 years later. He taught the sciences for over 20 years in public and private high schools. Most of those years were with Indianapolis Public Schools where he developed the initial biology magnate curriculum. Elder was a master educator in his professional career and spiritual calling. He dedicated over 20 years to Biblical education as an instructor at Aenon Bible College, where he’d eventually serve as academic dean. He was ordained with the Pentecostal Assemblies of the World (PAW) in 1986, served in the Indiana ABSA as the Central District State Chairman of the IPYPU, and served in other roles within the PAW on local and national levels. He served as the Pastor at Victory Temple Church, Terre Haute, IN until 1988 when he suffered a major stroke.

Elder became a modern-day miracle. When asked how he was doing after his stroke diagnosis, he was known for his emphatic response “I’m Blessed!” Though he officially retired from some of his professional capacities, he continued to educate and be educated. He pursued a second Masters degree and was determined to empower the next generation of leaders. He was a Paul to many Timothies. He was a Board Member and Elder at Redeeming Love Church where he faithfully taught Sunday School and Bible class until God called him home. Elder will forever be remembered for his compassion, wisdom, faith and commitment to God and family. He was preceded in death by his mother Annie Laura Sanford, Mother Martha Duncan; brother Tyrone Smith. His legacy will be carried on by his wife, Patricia Elaine; his children: Carla Sanford, Mary Sanford, Michelle Cannata (Matthew), and Allison Sanford; He is survived by his sisters Pam Kirk (Tom); Martha Haywood (Les); Juanita Hiser; Nellie Reed. A host of nieces, nephews, (Maurice, Annie, Alisia, Ariella, Alphonso, James William,Michael Del, Rhonda) cousins, God-children, Jason, Monica, Ashley and adopted grandchildren (“Paw-Paw’s babies”) Ashlynn, Ashleigh, Mireya, Devon, Beauty and Cherish.

Celebration of Life services will be held on Friday, September 22, 2023 at 12:00pm at Christ Temple Apostolic Faith Assembly, 430 W. Fall Creek Pkwy with visitation there from 10:00-12:00. Burial will take place in Crown Hill Cemetery

Charlie Buchanan lll

Charlie Buchanan lll, the Son of Charlie Buchanan Jr and Nannie Buchanan, was born on November 29, 1947, and Kingsport Tennessee and gained his wings on Saturday, August 26, 2023

Mr. Charlie Buchanan Jr. went into the Army in 1966 and was honorably discharged in 1969. He was stationed in Germany, and he drove for high ranked Officials as well as on standby to drive the President of the United States.

He Started his career at Arvin and then retired from Stuart’s Moving Company as Master repairer of furniture, metals, glass, and ceramics, Of 47 years. He was gifted, there was nothing he couldn’t repair. He also made the Orange Stuart’s decals on the Stuart’s Moving Trucks. Charlie worked up until he could no longer drive. That’s just the type of man he was. Dedicated! He was also a Monarch in his community. He fed so many families, friends, and kids without thinking twice from his favorite barbecue grill which he made himself, and from his kitchen stove. Rain or shine he cooked with passion and Love. He counseled and touched the lives of young and old from all over. He loved Basketball all his life. He played basketball until he couldn’t play anymore. He created a Basketball Court in his backyard that kept a lot of young people off the streets and out of trouble and to pursue college at their best and don’t settle for less. The young and older people came from all over just to play ball in his backyard. Charlie Buchanan Jr. Will be missed and never forgotten.

Charlie left longing precious memories with us. The joy and pain that dad bestowed upon us, to make us strong in this world through life’s ups and downs are priceless. Some may not understand or maybe even disapprove of my dad’s beliefs and standards. He was a true soldier in the battlefield of life. God was and is the head of his life. He was a true king under God! He taught us a great deal about our Heavenly Father, leadership, honor, strength, and love, and the scripture, Isaiah, 40:31 “but those who wait on the lord, shall renew their strength they shall mount up with wings like eagles, they will run and not grow weary. They shall walk and not faint.

Dad, you were the funniest and the most serious man we have ever met. It was a great honor to be a part of your life’s journey! may you rest in the arms of Jesus until we meet again!

He leaves to cherish his sons and daughters, Michael Buchanan, David Farrell, Charlie Buchanan IV,: son-in-law, Jomo Cole Sr.; daughters, Charene Buchanan Cole, Shamika, Buchanan; nephew, Richard Bowen and his wife, Stephanie Bowens; grandkids, Charlie Buchanan, Devon Buchanan, Jomo Cole Jr. Devonte’, Farrell, David Farral Jr, Dominique, Farrell, Clifton Ford and a host of great grandkids, nieces, nephews, and great nieces and nephews and a host a Family and friends.

Celebration of Life services will be held on Saturday, September 9, 2023, at 12:00pm at Kingdom Apostolic Ministries, 4900 E. 38^th St., with visitation there from 11:00-12:00pm. Burial will take place at New Crown Cemetery.

Betty Harris

Betty “BJ” Harris

Betty “BJ” Harris passed away peacefully on August 22nd. She was surrounded by family until the end. BJ was born on August 2, 1946, to Lewis and Ercel Whitelow and spent her childhood in London, Ohio. She went on to marry, mother, travel internationally, and spread joy locally during her lifetime.

BJ was preceded in death by her husband Bernard and her sister Karen. She is survived by her children Brandon (Angie) of Columbus, OH, Brad (Nikki) of Charleston, SC, and Brooke (Houmed) of Indianapolis, IN; grandchildren BriYanna, Cooper, Alsa, Anya, Brayden; and great grandchildren Veronica and Levi. BJ is also survived by her niece Rhonda, grandnieces Maya and Kendall, and her great grandnephew Isaac. She is remembered by many additional relatives and friends.

A beloved grandmother, mother, aunt, and friend, BJ asked that we not have a service, but a small family gathering instead. There are many ways to honor her wishes and memorialize her. Here are some of the family’s recommendations:

Join us for a “Light the Night” event by walking, donating, or joining our team. Family members will attend the events in Indianapolis, IN and Columbus, OH on October 12^th, 2023. (See https://pages.lls.org/ltn/in/indianap23/BJsTeam). Donate directly to The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society in her memory. Dress up in your fanciest jewelry and spend the night at home. Watch Frasier. Have a glass of White Zinfandel. Go shopping at TJ Maxx. Buy yourself something nice from QVC. Read a good book. Crochet a baby blanket. Send your friend $5 and a card for their birthday. Splurge on surf and turf. Wear something bright and colorful. Text someone you care about. Go through your day with BJ on your mind and in your heart.

Mary M. Walker

Mary Magdalene “BOLDIE” Jones Walker

Mary Magdalene “BOLDIE” Jones Walker was born on January 14, 1950 in Indianapolis, Indiana. She was the 9th child born to Lowell and Grace Sanders Jones. She was the youngest girl and was nick named “Bodie” by her brother Jim Boy because of her pretty bow legs.

She attended George Washington Carver School #87 from Kindergarten through the 8th grade. She loved her school and the neighborhood that she grew up in. Life long friendships were formed on 87’s playground. She would many years later organize a reunion committee to celebrate the neighborhood and School #87. The yearly reunions lasted for more than 20 years. It was at #87 that she developed a love for classical music.

Boldie loved the Lord. She grew up in a devout, faith believing home. She attended Grace Apostolic Church Sunday School as a child. What many may not know was that she also attended 25th St. Baptist church Sunshine Band, BTU and Vacation Bible School. She said that it was the “snacks” that made her go. She received the “Holy Ghost” at Grace in December 1965 and dedicated her life to God. She sang with the Indianapolis Pentecostal Mass Choir and taught Sunday school. Unfortunately however she had to give up her cheer leading and dreams of becoming a dancer because of the then rigid church rules.

She married in 1968 and although this marriage was later dissolved she was gifted with her greatest treasure. Her darling son, Thomas Keith who she affectionately called “Tokie”. She was a great mother. She taught him just as she had been taught to believe in God and to love the word of God. Tokie remembered all of the scriptures that he had learned. He took special pride in Genesis 1:28 that read “and God said to them, be fruitful, multiply and fill the earth.” And he did his best blessing her with grandchildren, Amira, Deante, Shamyr, Thomas Keith, Thomys Keith, Tyler Keith, Thomari Keith, Trevon Keith and Christian.

Boldie loved working with children. She was employed at Fahondzi Day care, Noble Center and the Indiana School for the Deaf. She taught herself American sign language so that she could communicate with her students. As she grew stronger in this form of expression she began to experiment with signing songs to music. This was a perfect way for her to pick back up her love for dance. She could use her hands to express in a dramatic fashion the lyrics of the song in a rhythmic sway using American Sign language, which was no different than a operatic diva performing an aria in latin.

Boldie met Frederick Walker in 2014. They were a perfect match! He would become her husband in 2017. The two of them decided to move to Murfreesboro Tennessee. It was their “Shangrilai” They spent 6 wonderful years together. They met no strangers. Their outgoing personalities allowed them to make many friends. They worshiped together at 1st Baptist church of Murfreesboro which they dearly loved. They were met not only with a wonderful, caring, dynamic Pastor but a church full of friends.

On Sunday August 20th Boldie joined her Mother, Father, Buddy, Bonnie, Sylvia, Jim Boy, Tootsie, Adrian, Pre Bug, Buddy Stew and Tee in eternity. Heaven will never be the same!!!

Memories of Boldie will be forever cherished by her husband Fred “Homer”, her son, Thomas “Tokie” (Melissa), grandchildren, great grand children, Bonus children Derek, Jared and Tamika. Her siblings Wanda Stewart, Norman Jones (Jacqueline) Oscar (Trina), Sister-in-love Carol Jones and Florence “Tizzie” Harper, Nieces, Nephews and Cousins, Neighborhood friends and classmates of #87 and Crispus Attucks and lastly her BFF, Ride or Die, Maki Da Da Jeanette and their 66 years of laughing, playing, traveling, listening, sharing, worshiping and love.

Celebration of life services will be held on Tuesday, August 29, 2023 at 1:00pm at Grace Apostolic Church, 649 E. 22nd St. with visitation there from 11:00-1:00pm

Harlan Webster

Harlan Webster Sr.

Harlan Bradley Webster Sr. departed this life on August 16th, at the VA medical center in Indianapolis, IN after a battle with cancer.

Harlan Bradley Webster was born on February 2, 1953, to Minnie Ola Wilson and Charles Alexander Webster. He was the youngest of 5 siblings.

Harlan attended Arsenal TechnicalHigh School as well as receiving his GED. Harlan was a Vietnam Era veteran and spent his military time in Germany. He used his GI bill to attend Heartland Community College in Bloomington, IL where he graduated with a certificate in Manufacturing Technology.

Harlan was married to Delores Walker and to this union 2 children were born. Harlan Bradley Webster Jr. and Daniel Webster (Shan). Harlan and Delores divorced and many years later he would meet and marry Phyllis Glover-Shaw in Bloomington, IL. This union would add 2 more sons to the family.

Harlan spent many years honing his craft of carpet installation and flooring. He enjoyed working for himself but as he was getting older, he decided to find work that was less taxing on the body. He began to work for the VA as an Environmental Services Tech in ER.

During Harlans journey in life he found that something was missing, and, in that search, he found that Jesus Christ was the answer. He was saved, sanctified, and filled with the precious gift of the Holy Ghost.

Harlan was proceeded in death by his grandparents Francis and James Webster, his father Charles A. Webster, his brother Charles A. Webster Jr, and his grandson David Webster.

Harlan leaves to cherish his memory his wife, Phyllis Webster, his mother Minnie Webster, sons - Harlan Bradley Jr, Daniel Webster Sr. (Shan) Orpheus Parker (Shellrice), Chris Shaw(Cassandra). Sisters - Patricia Tyler, Charlene Morgan, and Brenda Kitchell.

Nieces & Nephews - Danitra Kitchell (Diego) Virginia, Trina Tyler (Indy)

12 Grandchildren - Micah, Caleb, Daniel Jr, and Jessica.(Indy)

Illinois - Haley, Bryson, Bryce, Shakir, Shrya.

Washington - Chris Jr, Naomi. Texas- Nina

Great-grandchildren - Texas – Parker, Austin

Harlans greatest joy next to being at church and singing in the choir was being surrounded by his family- especially grandchildren and godchildren.

6 God children in Chicago-Kenny & Gloria Woodard - Reese, Rory, Elise, Everest, Ella, and Zoe.

Special friends and Family – Larry and Wanda Walker,Michael Poindexter, Phyllis Poindexter, Kerry Conwell, Ron and Johann Hockett, Delores Webster, Bishop Johnathan Franklin, Glenda and Earl Corbett, Paulina Thomas, and Uncle Thomas Eskridge.

Over the years as he traveled many great men of God have poured into his life. His salvation journey began at Mt. Zion with Bishop Gates. In Bloomington IL - Bishop Campbell poured into his life and he became head Deacon. During an earlier medical crisis Bishop Franklin would visit him daily and read scriptures to him. In Georgia Bishop Gordon was waiting for him. He just loved Bishop Mitchell. In Seattle - Elder Alston and Bishop Williams were there. We say thank you to all of these men of God.

There are a host of friends and family that he loved very much,and you too are part of his legacy.

Celebration of life services will be held on Saturday, August 26, 2023 at 11:00am at Kingdom Apostolic Ministries, 4900 E. 38th St. with visitation there from 10:00-11:00am. Burial will take place at the Marion National Cemetery

Darrell Austin

Darrell Lee Austin, beloved son, husband, father, and friend, passed away on August 14, 2023, at the age of 60. He was born to Roy Lee Jarrett and Mae Francis Austin on November 8, 1962, in Indianapolis, Indiana.

Darrell's journey through life was marked by his unyielding love for his family, his boundless passion for tinkering and fixing things, and his vibrant spirit that touched everyone fortunate enough to know him.

Darrell's early education took place in the classrooms of Indianapolis Public Schools. He graduated from Shortridge High School in 1981. He furthered his education and skills by earning a certification in small engine cars from Lincoln Technical College.

For over 20 years, he worked as a dedicated forklift driver, where his strong work ethic and willingness to offer a helping hand endeared him to his colleagues.

Darrell was a man of diverse interests and hobbies. He had an unwavering love for music that would often find him humming along to his favorite tunes. Cooking was another creative outlet that brought him joy, as he loved preparing delicious meals for his family. Darrell's enthusiasm for life spilled onto the dance floor, where he loved to dance. Karaoke nights were his time to shine, as he fearlessly took the stage, captivating audiences with his soulful renditions. He had an innate knack for fixing things, from cars to gadgets, always determined to breathe new life into the broken or discarded. Darrell's mantra, "If I can't fix it, then it's broke," underscored his tenacity and resourcefulness in the face of challenges, traits that he brought to both his work and personal life.

May 12, 2018, Darrell united his life with his true love, Yolanda L. Austin, in marriage. Their bond was a testament to the depth of his capacity to love and be loved, and they shared a companionship that was built on mutual respect, affection, and enduring commitment.

He is preceded in death by his father, Roy L. Jarrett, brother Eddie B. Austin, son D’Juan Arnett, and daughter DoneashaGalbreath. Also preceding him are his granddaughters ChanilyahGalbreath and Miracle Galbreath.

Darrell's memory will forever live on through his beloved wife, Yolanda L. Austin, his devoted mother, Mae Francis Austin, his loving children, Danielle L. Babatope, Darrell L. Austin, Jr., Daron L. Austin, Christopher R. Smith, Braylen J. Levi and his cherished grandchildren: De'Quan & Earl Whitney, Amayah & Ameliah Babatope, Janylah Chapman, Davion Galbreath, Andrea', Christopher & A'Deya Smith. He will also be lovingly remembered by his sisters Bernadine Galloway (Norman), Shirley Turner (Earnest), Angela Austin, and Vera Williams, as well as his brothers Micheal Austin (Dawn) and Andre Austin, along with his extensive extended family, including nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, cousins, and countless friends who were fortunate to accompany him on his life's journey.

Darrell Lee Austin's departure from this world leaves a void that cannot be filled, but his vibrant spirit, his zest for life, and his enduring love will continue to inspire all those who were fortunate enough to have known him. As we mourn his loss, let us also celebrate the beautiful tapestry of his life that he wove with his laughter, kindness, and indomitable spirit. Rest in peace, dear Darrell, for your memory will forever dance in our hearts.

Celebration of life services will be held on Friday, August 25, 2023 at 12:00pm at Friendship Missionary Baptist Church, 1301 N. Goodlet Ave, with visitation there from 10:00-12:00pm. Burial will take place at Floral Park Cemetery.

Chief Apostle Sylvia Jean Richardson Toney

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Chief Apostle Sylvia J. Toney

Chief Apostle Sylvia Jean Richardson Toney

Chief Apostle Sylvia Jean Richardson Toney was born on April 18, 1944 in Lester, WV from the union of Julius and Eula Richardson.

Chief Apostle Toney served as the local Sr. Pastor of the New Life Headquarters Church in Indianapolis, IN. The organization was founded and named in the hills of Gatlinburg, TN in 1998. She started many churches under her organization. She had a special ministry for Women in the Gospel, which encouraged many women to go forth to do what God had called them to do. Apostle Toney was an anointed woman of God.

Chief Apostle Sylvia Toney is survived by two daughters, Daniella Allen (Damon), Chasity Toney Brantley (Virgil), four sisters, Apostle Thelma Norman(J.B.), Evang. Shirley Wilborn (Lepoleon), Dr. Denese Lamb (Gary), Cassandra Welch (Brian), eleven grandchildren and one great-grandchild, a multitude of nieces, nephews and cousins, and lifelong friends. She was also survived by some of the most precious people on this earth, her New Life CCOT Bishops, Pastors and ALL members. To God be the Glory!

Celebration of Life services will be held on Saturday, August 19, 2023 at 12:00pm at Emmanuel Church Banta Campus, 6602 S. Harding St. with visitation there from 10:00-12:00pm. Burial will take place at Marion National Cemetery.

Gary Lee Ewing

Gary Lee Ewing was born to Rick Lee Ewing and Carol Jean Booker (Tyler) on June 21, 1981, in Indianapolis, IN. Gary spent part of his youth in Richmond, IN. He received his formal education at Broad Ripple High School in Indianapolis where he played on the Varsity Football team. Upon graduation, he attended Vincennes University.

Gary was an avid sports enthusiast and enjoyed watching and attending Colt’s football games and college sports. His favorite pastime was spending time with his friends and working out in the gym. Gary was also the owner and editor of Ewing & Tyler Publications, with his first novel to be released soon.

Gary is survived by his mother and stepfather Carol and Dennis Booker; his brothers- Rick L Ewing Jr, Craig S Ewing, and Marcus Cole; his sisters- Taundra K Miles-Cranor and Jennifer Clayton; and several aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, and nephews.

A Memorial Celebration will be held on Tues, Aug 15, 2023 at 12pm at Friendship Missionary Baptist Church, 1301 N. Goodlet Ave with Memorial visitation there from 11:00am until 12:00pm

Arrangements entrusted to Ellis Mortuary

Roger Buchanan Ray Jr.

Roger Buchanan Ray Jr. was born on August 31, 1962 in Tampa Florida to his parents, Roger Buchanan Ray, Sr and Mary Frye Ray. Roger passed away on June 8, 2023. He lived in Indianapolis and worked for CTI as a Systems Design Engineer.

He served in the United States Airforce, enjoyed music, biking and family. He is survived by mother, Mary Frye Ray; sister, Mimi Ray; and fiancé, Apryl Turner.

A Memorial will be held August 19, 2023, at Episcopal Church of Ascension, 701 Orange Ave in Clearwater, Florida. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to St. Jude Children's Hospital. Inurnment will take place in Serenity Gardens Cemetery. Arrangements entrusted to Ellis Mortuary. For more details, memories and expressions of sympathy see www.serenityfuneralhomelargo.com

Herbert Wooden

Herbert Wayne Wooden was born September 1, 1959, in Oxford Mississippi. The family relocated to Indianapolis, IN in 1965, where Herbert received his formal education from Indianapolis Public Schools. He attended Schools #110 and Broad Ripple High School.

Herbert attended Zion Tabernacle Church in Indianapolis and during his lifetime, his mantra became, “God Is,” with respect and honor to doctrines of various faiths.

Herbert was an avid mechanic and serviced the automobiles of friends, family and community members, while working at various car repair shops. Herbert’s past time hobbies were cooking and drawing. He was great with facial details in his portraits, and art work in different mediums. To this day, family members have his art work proudly displayed in their homes.

Herbert lived in various cities throughout the Midwest and always stayed in touch via poems, letters, comic telephone calls, and artistic drawing on his famous post-cards.

One of Herbert’s greatest claims in life was being the “Big and Only” brother to his five (5) sisters, considering he was next to the youngest. In all of his introductions and interactions with others, he would smile broadly and introduce “himself” as the “Big Brother.” His sisters got a big warm brotherly hug with such admiration from him.

Within the past year, Herbert relocated back to Indianapolis and unfortunately, six months ago, was diagnosed with MSD/Leukemia. His mother and five (5) sisters made sure he was comfortable and exemplifying love in their own way, strengthening their relationships by: Mother, (cooking his favorite liver and onions, upon request, often), Shirley, (second mother at every doctor’s appointment), Doris Jeanette (being Jeanette), Willie Jean (prayer/spiritual warrior), Pamela, (lifting his spirit as comedian, from California), and Tracy (helping him relocate to his comfortable new apartment).

Herbert was very humble and kind. He loved to joke, tease, and laugh a lot, even danced a little bit.

He departed this earthly life on Saturday, July 22, 2023. He was preceded in death by his father, Monroe Jones, grandmother, Doyle Ivy, aunt, Mossie Barringer, and uncle, James Barringer.

He leaves to cherish his memories, mother, Corrie Jones, sisters, Shirley, Doris Jeanette (Michael), Willie Jean, Pamela (Paul), Tracy, and a host of uncles, aunts, nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

Celebration of Life services will be held on Monday, July 31, 2023 at 12:00pm at Ellis Mortuary Chapel, 4445 N. Shadeland Ave with visitation there from 11:00-12:00pm. Burial will take place at Floral Park Cemetery.

Michael Jones

Michael “Ice Pick” Jones was born on February 18, 1961 to Josie Springer Jones and Hubert Griffin in Indianapolis, Indiana. As a child Michael was baptized at an early age and accepted Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior.

Michael attended school #41 and Crispus Attucks High School. Mike was a very giving person and a True Fighter. He gave many flowers to others. His motto was to give flowers while a person is still alive.

Mike loved to help others. He was employed at every business the family owned, He also helped with many FundRaising Events, and always lended a hand at every family event. He loved and cherished his family. For many years Mike was employed at Prosperity Enrichment as the Head of Maintenance, where he fell in love with children. He would adopt children from different families and buy them clothes, shoes, toys, you name it. He also cherished the women in his family. He always bought flowers, gifts, and trinkets to show his love.

Michael passed away on Sunday July 16, 2023 at the age of 62. He is now preceded in death by his grandmother, Lelar Mae Jones; mother, Josie Springer Jones; father, Hubert Griffin; brothers, Robert Earl Jones, Lee Eddie Jones, and Ronald Jones; nephew, Ronnie Jones, niece, Ranyiah Jones

Mike leaves to cherish his memory, sisters, Trisha and Kathy Griffin, JoAnn Rhoden and Simirta Anderson, brother, LeRoy White; uncle Clinton Jones and a host of nieces, nephews, and family and friends that loved him dearly.

Celebration of Life services will be held on Friday, July 28, 2023 at 12:00pm at Universal Church of Truth, 1927 E. 32nd St, with visitation there from 10:00-12:00pm

Tony Manning

Mr. Tony Dario Manning, son of Leon Manning Sr. and Dollie Lorraine Seymour Manning, was born on August 4, 1961, in Indianapolis, Indiana. He attended Indianapolis Public school #44 and completed his education at Northwest High School Class of 1979.

Tony then joined the United States Army in 1979 and served 4 years and was honorably discharged in 1983.

His place of employment was Material Handling Exchange and he enjoyed driving trucks.

Tony was a devoted brother and uncle. He had a warm happy spirit, and he will be remembered by all who knew and loved him. Tony was known from a very young age for his musical talent for playing the piano.

Tony Dario Manning departed this earthly life July 14, 2023, at the early age 61 years, 11 months and 10 days. He leaves to cherish his loving memory his long companion, Monica Jefferson; brothers, Howard Bowling, Leon Manning Jr.,; sisters, Alma Holenna Manning and Yolanda Manning and one brother in law, Richard Campbell. Along with a host of nieces, nephews, great nieces, great nephews and other family and friends whose lives he touched.

He was preceded in death by his father and mother, Leon & Dollie Manning; two sisters, Sophronia K. Spinks and Ella M. Campbell

Celebration of Life services will be held on Saturday, July 29, 2023 at 12:00pm at Friendship Missionary Baptist Church, 1301 N. Goodlet Ave, with visitation there from 10:00-12:00pm.

Darrell Andrew Morgan, Sr. "Deno"

Darrell Andrew Morgan, Sr. "Deno" was born November 11, 1962 in Dayton, Ohio to Andrew Kinnard and Maylo E. (Terry) Davis.

He attended Indianapolis Public Schools and graduated from Arlington High School in 1981.

Darrell worked various jobs in his lifetime including FedEx and Pepsi Co. After Pepsi Co., he started working as a chef for Duke Energy Group for several years. His last position as a chef was at Rehabilitation Hospital of Indiana where he retired in March 2012.

Darrell departed this earth to go to his heavenly home on Saturday, July 8, 2023.

Darrell leaves to cherish his memory: his devoted spouse, Kimberlie Duke; sons, Darrell Andrew, Jr (Jazimen) and Antonio Andre', daughter, Roslynn Rochelle; grandsons, Christopher, Darrell Anderew III, and Jeremiah; granddaughters, Mercy, Aubrey, and Janelle; sister, Andrea Kinnard; brother, Terrell L. Morgan (Alexis); and a host of aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives, and friends.

Darrell was preceded in death by his father, Andrew Kinnard and mother, Maylo E. (Terry) Davis; brother, Terrence Morgan; daughter, Renee R. Morgan, son-in-law, Harry D. Coleman; grandparents; and several aunts and uncles.

Celebration of Life services will be held on Friday, July 14, 2023 at 12:00pm at Greater St. Mark Baptist Church, 5502 E. 38th St. with visitation there from 10:00-12:00pm.

Georgie B Toliver

Georgie B. Toliver departed her life at the age of 89, at Community North Hospital, Tuesday July 4, 2023, amongst her loving family. She was born in Stanton, Tennessee on Tuesday May 22, 1934, to the late Pump Maclin and Willie Mordenia Muex.

In 1953 she moved to Indianapolis, Indiana with her husband. Georgie was employed at Indiana National Bank, and the Postal Service before becoming a homemaker.

Georgie was a wonderful woman, that had a passion for her family, and always made friends feel like family. No one was a stranger to Georgie. She loved cooking, baking, shopping, gardening, and sitting on her front porch. Georgie loved watching Madea movies, as she found them comforting and funny. Georgie was an enduring mother and grandmother that had her own special way of saying her loved one's names, but they all knew who she was referring to.

Georgie was preceded in death by her beloved, late husband of 72 years, James W. Toliver who passed two weeks, and one day before her. She also, was preceded in death by her son, George Toliver, daughters, Annie Muex-Jones, and Betty Jean Toliver-Woods; and three grandchildren, Clora Shanice Toliver, Geneva Toliver-Reeves, and Anthony Sanders, and 12 siblings Clyde Taylor, John Claybon, Willie Mae Brown, Ruth Mae Maclin, Luecresse Taylor, Robert Littlejohn, Pauline Littlejohn, Lizzie Littlejohn, John Littlejohn, Frederick Littlejohn, Ivory Littlejohn, and Gailor Littlejohn.

She leaves to cherish her memory, her 3 daughters Georgia Mae Toliver-Craig, Mary Ann Toliver, Connie Toliver-Robertson; 2 sons James Earl (Karen) Toliver, Michael (Tenisha) Toliver, her special bonus daughter LaToya Toliver; bonus kids from Memphis Carl Townsend, and Patricia Littlejohn, her brother James (Deborah) Littlejohn, sister in law Peggy Littlejohn, 22 grandchildren, 41 great grandchildren, 23 great great grandchildren, and a host of nieces, nephews and other relatives.

Celebration of Life services will be held on Saturday, July 15, 2023 at 12:00pm at New Era Church, 517 W. 30th St. with visitation there from 10:00-12:00pm. Burial will take place in New Crown Cemetery.

Chandra Whitney Johnson

Chandra Whitney Johnson was born to Terry Blaine Whitney and Rosemary McDonald Bunton on May 29, 1962 in Indianapolis, Indiana.

Chandra attended her elementary education in the Indianapolis Public school system and graduated from Pike High School.

At an early age Chandra attended Christ Temple Apostolic Church under the leadership of several Pastors and attended Sunday School and served on the usher board and several other ministries while attending there. She then joined in fellowship with Grace Apostolic Church under the leadership of Bishop Kevin Harrison.

Chandra was a loving and kindhearted person who made you smile anytime you came in contact with her. She will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved her.

Chandra departed this earthly life on July 3, 2023 at the tender age of 61 years of age.

Chandra Whitney Johnson lease to cherish her loving memories he devoted daughter, Bridgette Williamson; mother, Rosemary McDonald Bunton; sister, Celeste Whitney Matthews; several aunts, uncles, nieces and nephews. cousins and extended family.

Chamdra's Celebration of life services will be held on Tuesday, July 11, 2023 at 12:00pm at Grace Apostolic Church 649 E. 22nd St with visitation there from 10:00-12:00pm with burial in Crown Hill Cemetery.

James Willis Toliver

James Willis Toliver departed his life at the age of 90, in his home, Monday June 19, 2023 amongst his loving family. He was born in Covington, Tennessee on Tuesday May 23, 1933, to the late Willis Potte Toliver and Clora Ann Toliver.

He attended Palmer Grove Elementary/High School and completed the 11th grade. In 1953 he moved to Indianapolis, Indiana where he later completed his high school education at Arlington High School, earning his diploma.

James was employed at Archie Mckinney in the 1950’s as a truck driver. He worked at Citizen Gas company in the 1960’s. He started working for Allison Transmission in 1966, then transferred to Rolls Royce in 1992 where he retired at the age of 87 in 2020.

He leaves to cherish his memory, his wife of 72 years Georgie B. Toliver, his 3 daughters Georgia Mae Toliver-Craig, Mary Ann Toliver, Connie Toliver-Robertson; 2 sons James Earl (Karen) Toliver, Michael (Tenisha) Toliver, his special bonus daughter LaToya Toliver; bonus kids from Memphis Carl Townsend, and Patricia Littlejohn, 22 grandchildren, 41 great grandchildren, 23 great great grandchildren, and a host of nieces, nephews and other relatives.

James was preceded in death by his son, George Toliver; daughters, Annie Muex-Jones, and Betty Jean Toliver-Woods; and three grandchildren; Clora Shanice Toliver, Geneva Toliver-Reeves, and Anthony Sanders.

Celebration of Life services will be held on Saturday, July 1, 2023 at 12:00pm at New Era Church, 517 W. 30th St, with visitation there from 10:00-12:00pm. Burial will take place in New Crown Cemetery.

Nancy Yvonne Ellis

Nancy Yvonne Ellis was born August 1, 1949, in Indianapolis, Indiana to her parents, Curlee Murphy and Fannie Harris-Murphy, both of whom preceded her in death.

Nancy attended Crispus Attucks Night High School to receive her diploma in 1979. Her grades reflected that she was at the top of her class.

Nancy attended Eastern Star Church. She decided to continue worshiping at home in her later years with the guidance of church staff.

Nancy birthed 3 children: James Author Wilson, the late Michael Cowherd and Raymone Dean Mockabee.

Wedding bells rang on August 17, 1982, when Nancy Murphy and the late Clarence Ellis were united together to enjoy over eighteen years of marital bliss which brought two sons into her life, Andre' and Michael.

“Doll Baby”, as she was affectionately known to some, was a strong and confident woman. She was loved by many and had numerous friends.

Nancy enjoyed retirement from the city county building working for the Mayor’s Action Center as a customer service representative after 30 years of service. Nancy also enjoyed traveling, being with family, relaxing and watching reality TV.

She departed this life on Tuesday, June 13, 2023, at the age of seventy-three years, ten months and thirteen days.

Nancy Yvonne Ellis leaves to cherish her memories, her four sons, James A. Wilson, Raymone D. Mockbee, Andre L. Ellis and Michael Ellis (Ann); one sister, Bertha Meadows (Robert); two brothers late Larry Murphey and Arthur Hanes; six grandchildren, Nicky Orr, Brian Orr, Rayshod Mockabee, Chaznee Mockabee, Jackson Ellis, Nova Ellis; three great-grandchildren, Raymee Mockabee, Avian Mockabee and Royce Mockabee; brothers and sisters in-laws, Vivian M.(Ronald) Ellis-Rice, Ronald D. (Sheila) Ellis, Patricia J. Ellis-Clark, Deborah E. (David) Ellis--Anderson, Darryl D. (Adrian) Ellis and a host of nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, cousins, other relatives and a host of friends.

Celebration of Life services will be held on Thursday, June 22, 2023 at 11:00am at Eastern Star Church, 5805 Cooper Road with visitation there from 9:30-11:00am. Burial will take place at Washington Park North Cemetery.

Adrian E. Jones, Sr.

Adrian E. Jones, Sr. the son of Lowell Jones and Grace D. Sanders Jones was born on February 27, 1947 in Indianapolis, Indiana.

Adrian was employed by General Motors and retired after serving many years there.

Elder Adrian Jones was a member of the Overcoming Church under the leadership of Pastor Bruce Farr. Elder Jones served on the Altar and Baptismal committees. He enjoyed helping people and also served on the repast team serving families after funeral services.

Adrian was a loving and caring person that enjoyed talking about the Lord. He truly loved his family and will be missed by all who knew and loved him.

Adrian Errol Jones, Sr. leaves to cherish his loving memories, daughter, Andrinai (Christopher) Lomax-Montgomery ; sons, Adrian E. (Justine) Jones, Jr., Aaron O. Jones; brothers, Norman S. (Jacqueline) Jones, Oscar D. (Trina) Jones; sisters, Wanda M. Stewart, Mary M. (Fred) Walker and a host of grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins and extended family.

Celebration of life services will be held on next Saturday, June 17, 2023 at 12:00pm at Grace Apostolic Church, 649 E. 22nd St. with visitation there from 10:00-12:00pm.

PHILLIP DONNELL FINGERS

PHILLIP DONNELL FINGERS was born to Carolyn Gilbert (JM) and James Fingers in Indianapolis, IN on January 20, 1963. He was inherited and fathered by JM Gilbert in 1971. Phillip resided in Indianapolis, IN for the full 60 years of his life. Phillip was preceded in death by his biological father James Fingers Sr., maternal grandparents Hubert and Eugia Richardson, paternal grandparents John Clavin (JC) and Martha Gilbert; uncle Carl (Dinky) Richardson, great nephew Derrick Jones, sister-in-law Vickie Lewis, and brother-in-law Thomas Hoskins Jr.

Phillip served as a Private in the U.S Army. He attended Emmerich Manual High School where he held the Indiana State Track records for high jump and long jump. He continued his education at Mississippi State University and currently holds the freshman High Jump record with a 7 feet 2 ¼ inch jump. Phillip worked for the Indianapolis Parks Department for years and as a self-employed Maintenance Technician, managing facilities that included the U.S. Military recruiting office and Christ Church Apostlic Church. He died on May 27, 2023 at age 60 at his home.

Phillip was a devoted family man. He enjoyed giving back to the people in the Indianapolis community, fishing, playing and watching sports and socializing with friends.

Phillip was married to Kim Sims for 21 years and there were no children born to this union.

Phillip is survived by his parents, brother, Luther Lewis Jr. (Regina); sisters, Anita M. Stone (Joe), Eugia Lindsay (Donell), Chenita Holman (Peter), and Rosslyn Lewis; a host of nephews and nieces, an abundance of cousins, and a close brotherhood with Jesse Edmonds, Raydell Higgins, Patrick D’Angelo and Richie Gurnell and a sister-brother relationship with Kyle Crockett and loving friends.

Memorial visitation will be held on Saturday, June 3, 2023 from 10:30-12:00pm at Ellis Mortuary Chapel, 4445 N. Shadeland Ave

Susie Oliver Ross

Susie Oliver Ross the daughter of Willie and Mary B. Caldwell Oliver was born in Hillhouse, Mississippi on April 2, 1931.

Susie was a faithful member of Christ Temple Apostolic Faith Assembly under the leadership of the Bishop Charles M. Finnell.

She leaves to cherish her memories; sons, Theodore Seymour, James W. Ross, David M. Ross; daughters, Brenda S. Radford, Linda S. Ross, Margaret E. Campbell; brother, William C. “Duke” Oliver; 28 grandchildren, 68 great grandchildren and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and extended family members.

Celebration Services will be held on Sat, June 3, 2023 at 12pm at Christ Temple Apostolic Church, 439 W. Fall Creek Pkwy, with visitation there from 10:00am until 12:00pm. Burial: Washington Park North. Arrangements entrusted to Ellis Mortuary

Jonathan Christopher "Chris" Hull

Jonathan Christopher

"Chris" Hull was born in Great Lakes, Illinois on September 30, 1955, as the youngest of three and the only son to Jeanne (Mitchell) Hull Robinson and Robert Hull.

Christ attended Indianapolis Public Schools, graduating from Arlington High School in 1973. He went on to Taylor University, transferring and subsequently graduating from Oral Roberts University with a degree in Sociology. While in College, Chris decided to join the United States Marine Corps, enrolling in the Officer's Candidate School.

Cherishing his memory and honoring his legacy, his loving wife, Sherrida Diane West Hull; sons, Daryl Holland and Nicholas Hull; daughter, Chrisney (Danny) Ball; 7 grand daughters and 1 great granddaughter; sisters, Sheryl Watts, Shandelle Hull, Amanda (Kunal) Gonga, Trisha Garzelli; brother, brother, John Hull; step siblings, Andrew (Diane) Brown, Debora (Billy) Grace; a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, aunts, uncles and cousins.

Celebration services, Saturday, May 20, 2023 at 12:00pm at New Beginnings Fellowship Church, 2125 N. German Church Rd. with visitation there from 9:00-12:00pm.

Reba L. Landers Hogan

Reba L. Landers Hogan was born on August 19, 1923 to Elouise and Lawrence Landers in Settle, Kentucky.

She attended school in Scottville, Kentucky. After moving to Indianapolis at an early age, she decided to become a beautician and attended Poro Beauty and Barber College. She later owned and operated a beauty salon and named it Reba’s Beauty Shop. Reba was employed by Radio Corporation of America (RCA) for 43 years and retired there in 1982.

Reba was baptized in Green Baptist in Settle, Kentucky in a creek at the age of 10 years old. After coming to Indianapolis she became a member of Twenty Fifth Baptist Church where she sang in the choir and the Church would be so crowded she would leave and walk a few blocks and go to Christ Temple after hearing Elder Tobin preach and the saints speaking in tongues. She thought they were foreigners.

After Elder Morris Golder opened the Church on Northwestern it was closer to her home. The word began to open her understanding to the Gospel. She then followed Grace Church to 22nd Church and got baptized in Jesus name but didn’t receive the Holy Ghost for two weeks later.

Reba always loved children, she became a very close friend in the beauty shop with a young lady and they became like sisters. She then became ill with cancer and asked Reba to raise her children. She had no idea how she would do it but by God’s help but took on Mary, Robbie, Cynthia and Lawrence and they became the Love of her life. She worked two jobs so that they could attend the Pentecostal Assemblies of the World conventions every year.

At Grace she served forty years with the Sunday school department, Morning Prayer warriors and ushering. She was a charter member of Grace Apostolic Church and was the President Grace usher, regional board, President of the State (ABSA) usher board, Regional Director for the State and served on the National PAW usher board and was the only living Charter member. She surely was a doorkeeper for the Lord. She also served and was a longtime member of the Missionaries, Golden Ages and the Prayer band.

She leaves to cherish her memory; daughters, Mary Harris, Robbie Gilbert (Dickey-deceased), Cynthia (Bobby) Holmes; son, Lawrence (Stella) Milam; several grandchildren, Royce Sims, JaMara Carter, Marcus Neal, Michael Neal, Kisha Edwards, Monique Rogers, Damon Thomas; Diamond Trotter, 22 great grandchildren, 1 great-great grandchildren; a host a nieces, nephews, cousins and extended family.

Celebration of Life service will be held on Tuesday, May 16, 2023 at 12:00pm at Grace Apostolic Church, 649 E. 22nd St. with visitation there from 10:00-12:00pm. Burial will take place at Washington Park North Cemetery

Silas Boyd Edmonds, Jr

Silas Boyd Edmonds, Jr. the son of Mamie and Silas Edmonds, Sr. was born on October 26, 1963, in Indianapolis, Indiana.

Silas attended Shortridge High School for the Performing Arts Program, where he excelled as an avid guitar player. He also played the keyboard and participated in theater. He later attended Arsenal Technical High School where he played football and continued his music interests. After high school he enlisted in the United States Army and served our country for 6 years and was later employed at the Julian Carson Center.

Silas declared his love for Christ as a young boy and attended church diligently. Silas first attended Faith Apostolic ChurchFamily under the leadership of the late Elder Walter Plummer. Silas later attended Christ Church Apostolic under the leadership of the late Great Bishop James E. Tyson. Silas was a member of the Christ Church Radio Choir and the Christ Church Youth Choir which he thoroughly enjoyed. Silas also attended Promises Place Ministries under the leadership of Pastor Mark Plummer Jr where he was an asset to the kingdom of God, through his gifts, love and humor.

Silas met the love of his life, Jacquelyn, when he was a teenager and professed that she was going to be his wife one day. They were married in Holy Matrimony on May 2, 2009, and to this union they welcomed their beloved dog, Sampson, into their home. Sampson was more than just a pet; he is a cherished member of the family and brought joy and happiness to their lives.

Silas was a professed culinary arts extraordinaire and had a passion for cooking delectable dishes and exquisite cuisine. He loved experimenting with new flavors and techniques and was always eager to share his creations with others. His culinary talent was evident in the countless meals he prepared for family and friends, and his love for cooking inspired many.

Silas transitioned into the arms of his maker the Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, on Wednesday April 5, 2023. He leaves to cherish his wife Jackie Welch Edmonds, his brothers, Larry Edmonds (Sue), Stephen Edmonds. His sisters, Linda Plummer, Peggy Edmonds, Sharon Cole (Billy) and sister/niece Yolanda Humphries (Jeff) God/sister Carol Howard (Corey). He also leaves to cherish his sister-in-law Lawanna Finch (James), Ann Welch Campbell (Jim) and brother-in-law Bobby Welch (Simone), countless nephews and nieces, his confidant El Ford, cousin Barbara Dean Bowers and a host of other relatives and friends.

Silas was a very unique individual who did not meet a stranger. He had a sense of humor that was unmatched. He loved to make people laugh and exhibited great joy to whoever he was around. Silas will be sorely missed by his family and friends. His laughter and smile will forever be embedded in our minds and hearts.

Rest in Heaven our dear sweet husband/brother; we will see you again someday.

Celebration of Life services will be held on April 14, 2023 at 12:00pm at Christ Church Apostolic, with visitation there from 10:00-12:00pm

Nettie Harris

Mother Nettie Lee Brandon Harris was born October 2, 1931, to the late Frank and Susie Brandon in Dixie, GA. She was the fifth oldest of fifteen children.

graduated from Brooks County Training School in May 1950. Upon graduating she relocated to Richmond, Indiana where she resided with her oldest sister and brother in law May Bell and Eugene Cox. They all soon moved to Indianapolis, IN. They were members of Christ Temple Apostolic Church and Nettie soon joined them. She was baptized in Jesus Name and filled with the Holy Ghost under the leadership of Bishop Morris E. Golder.

Nettie was united in Holy Matrimony to James Earl Harris, Sr on December 22, 1956. To this union were born two children, June LaRose and James Earl, Jr. When they married Nettie was employed with RCA. She worked there until after James was born and then she decided to quit working and become a full time Mom. Nettie transferred her membership to be with her husband at Bethel Tabernacle Apostolic Faith Assembly under the Pastorate of Elder Owen Young.

In 1965 James and Nettie made the decision to move their family to Nashville, TN. They became members of Greater Christ Temple where James’ brother Dist. Elder W. W. Harris was the Pastor. Wherever Nettie Placed her membership she was a blessing to the ministry. She also began babysitting at this time. Babysitting allowed her to continue to be home with her children but also assist someone else with taking care of their children while they worked. This also allowed her to bring a few dollars into the home. She worked for Mr. and Mrs. Seybert taking care of their children.

In 1968 Nettie and James moved back to Indianapolis and were once again members of Bethel Tabernacle. Nettie continued to babysit. She ministered to and loved the children of Nathaniel and Janice Russell, Pat Holliday, and Debra Eaves Jackson. She went back to work when June and James were in High School first working for Richardson Company and then for Forest Manor Middle School. When James and Nettie divorced in 1982, Nettie took some courses and started working as a Nurses Aid. She continued this work until she retired in 1993. After retiring she assisted June with her children and assisted some of the elderly saints with errands.

Nettie continued to be faithful to the ministry all through her life. She worked as a member of the kitchen staff until she could no longer do so, and Bishop Young loved when she fried chicken. She was a Sunday School teacher and worked as the treasurer for many years. She assisted the Youth department as Secretary. She was an usher and was the Chairlady of the ushers for quite a few years. She was also a member of the Senior and Tabernacle Choirs where she utilized her voice to lead at times. A couple of her favorites were “Everlasting Life is Free” and “I Know What Prayer Can Do”. Nettie also worked as part of the Women’s Ministry staff for several years.

Nettie loved to cook and was a great seamstress. She made clothes for her children, husband and others. She also used this gift to work along with Irene Smith in her shop. Nettie loved her children, grandchildren and great grandchildren and it gave her great joy to have them around. Nettie was a cancer survivor having been healed from the death disease three times. She had breast cancer in 1985, and it returned in 1989. She then had kidney cancer in 2005. The things the devil meant to kill her only made her stronger. She had a love for God’s Word and was a strong prayer warrior. Nettie was also the oldest living “original” member of the October Birthday Club.

Nettie was preceded in death by her parents Frank and Susie Brandon, son James Earl Harris, Jr, siblings Minnie Brandon, Clifford Brandon, Carrie Ferguson, May Bell Cox, Johnny Brandon, Selena Spencer, Mae Frank Wimberley, Eugene Brandon, and Eddie Brandon.

She is survived by her loving daughter and son-in-law and caregivers, June LaRose and Edward Daniels. daughter-in-law, Tammy Harris. sisters, Susie Mae Toliver from Jacksonville, Fl, Mattie Mae Campbell from Clearwater, FL and Annie Ruth Major (Rocky) from Valdosta, GA; brothers Lucius Brandon (Elouise) from Valdosta, GA and Frank Brandon from Jacksonville, FL; sisters in law, Julia Brandon and Eddie Mae Brandon from Valdosta, GA. grandchildren, Darron Stigler from Sacramento, CA, Demetrius (Le’Ara) Stigler, Jeffrey Dominique Stigler, Desmond Harris, James Harris and Jordan Harris all of Indianapolis, IN. great grandchildren, Arael Stigler, Lailah Stigler, Demetrius “Duece” Stigler, and Teigynn Harris. Adopted family, The Russell family, Keith and Thelma Ledford, Sylvester and Katherine Ragland, Breonna Ledford, Brandon Ledford and Lela Linton. Special friends Azzie Bobbitt, Sandra Harris-Lee, Sarah Smith and Sherrie Alexander. Additional caregivers, Demetrius Stiger, Arael Stigler, Sandra Harris-Lee, Kathy Ragland and Keith Ledford.

Mother Harris' Celebration of Life services will be held on Saturday, April 1, 2023 at 12:00pm at Great Mt Calvary Apostolic Church, 6635 E. 42nd St., with visitation there from 10:00-12:00pm. Burial will take place at Crown Hill Cemetery

Ronald Townsend

Ronald Edward Townsend, Sr. was born February 1, 1949, in Birmingham, Alabama,to George Dennard and Mary Elizabeth Townsend. Ronald spent his early years in the care of Judge and Cherry Townsend, his grandparents, and affectionately credited them for his upbringing.

After attending Carver High School in Birmingham, Ron joined the United States Marine Corps, where he served as a Sargent until his Honorable Discharge in 1970. Upon relocating to Indianapolis, Indiana, Ron was employed at Rock Island Oil Refinery, Eli Lily, and May's Chemical Co. from which he retired.

Ronald met the love of his life, Sharon, and they were married on July 21, 1983. Together, they founded and ran Shalom Outreach Ministries from 2003-2015. Ronald was a former member of New Wineskin Ministries, Restoration Worship Center, and Overcoming Church until the onset of Covid-19.

Big Ron was well known as a grill master and the life of any party by his friends and family and was always willing to listen and help in any way he was needed.

Ronald Edward Townsend Sr. exchanged his physical life for an eternal one on March 17, 2023, at the age of seventy-four. He leaves behind to carry his memory his wife and number one supporter, SharonтMarie Townsend, two brothers, Herbert Lee Townsend and Michael Jakes, one sister, Wanda Faye Harris; his sons, Ronald E. Townsend Jr., Farid Abdur-Rahim, Rico Townsend, Energy E. Townsend and Gary Townsend; daughter, Rhonda Townsend; his granddaughter Aryauna Townsend, whom he raised as a daughter as well as his grandchildren, great grandchildren, cousins, nieces, nephews and close friends.

Celebration of Life services will be held on Monday, March 27, 2023 at 12:00pm at Temple of Praise Assembly, 3969 Meadows Drive, with visitation there from 11:00-12:00pm. Burial will take place at Crown Hill Cemetery

Russell Henry Phelps, Sr

Russell Henry Phelps, Sr. was born to McCrath and Marjorie Phelps on October 6, 1923, in Indianapolis, Indiana.

Brother Russell became a member of Christ Temple Apostolic Faith Assembly along with his parents in 1928 and at the young age of 17 was filled with the precious gift of the Holy Ghost. Brother Russell during his tenure at Christ Temple sat up under the late Bishop G.T. Haywood, Elder Robert F. Tobin, Bishop Morris E. Golder, Bishop Willie Lee, Bishop James E. Tyson, Bishop Benjamin T. Moore and Bishop Byron Johnson. In 2001 he joined fellowship with New Wineskin Ministries under the pastorate of the late Bishop Byron Johnson.

He attended Crispus Attucks High School and graduated in the early 1940s. After graduation, he eventually worked for the US Postal Service where he was a mail carrier for nearly 35 years. After retirement, he worked several years as a courier for Goodman Jewelers.

Russell had hobbies of hunting and fishing and he enjoyed watching sports and current events on television. He also had a true passion for singing and listening to Gospel music. He was the last surviving original member of the singing group the Gospel Chimes with whom he traveled in and out of the city performing for various churches. There never was nor will there ever be a sound quite like the one the Gospel Chimes made. For years he was also a faithful member of the Pentecostal Mass Choir and various other church choirs.

Russell married Doris Jones in 1948 and from that union they had 2 children, Janice and Russell Jr. before Doris' death in the 1960's.

On December 1, 1966, Russell married Carol Vassar and he became stepfather to her daughter Pamala Jackson. He and Carol were blessed to have 4 more children, Kenneth, Keith, Kimberly and Kathy.

Celebration services will be held on Saturday, March 18, 2023 at 12:00pm at New WIneskin Ministries, 4501 W. 38th St., with visitation there from 10:00-12:00pm. Burial will take place at Crown Hill Cemetery

James Alfred Fountain

James Alfred Fountain was born on August 17, 1953, in Owensboro, Kentucky to Myrdis Jean Bratton and Floyd Truman Fountain in their home. He moved to Indianapolis, Indiana in 1956 and was raised by his aunt Almeta Webster and cousin Palmeta Rent who both preceded him in death. James met the love of his life, Cynthia Fountain, and joined her in Holy Matrimony on June 17, 1972. They had three children together;Nichole, LaShonna and Deetra.

James was a devout Christian who emulated what a loving husband, caring father, encouraging friend and awesome man of God should be. Not to mention an amazing grandfather and great-grandfather. He was baptized and saved in his early 20s and pledged to live his life for Christ. He was a charter member of Christ Church Apostolic and a founding member of Total Praise and Worship Center. He was ordained as an Elder by Bishop James Tyson and ordained as a minister under J Laverne Tyson.

James was a senior engineering technician for Eli Lilly for 30 years. After retiring from Eli Lilly, he immediately helped start Cook Pharmica in 2005. After leaving Cook in 2011 he started his own biotech consulting business, The JFountain Group Inc under ProPharma Group. The JFountain group allowed him to travel the world to places like Germany and London while working alongside Dr. Anthony Fauci. James who co-founded Biljam productions was also a well-known and talented producerand musician.

He leaves behind his loving wife, Cynthia Fountain; 3 daughters, Nichole Fountain, LaShonna Fountain, and DeetraBrent (Lamont Brent); 8 grandchildren, Bryni Tiggs (Elijaih Tiggs), Brooke Scott, James Fountain, Blake Scott, Deja Bush, Jalen Fountain, Blair Scott and Darion Murray; 3 great grandchildren, Serenity Fountain, Skylar Fountain, and Valor Tiggs; his sister, Donnia Fountain, a host of nieces and nephews, and his trusty yorkie Bruno.

Celebration of life services will be held on Saturday, March 4, 2023 at 12:00pm at Christ Church Apostolic, 6601 N. Grandview Dr., with visitation there from 10:00-12:00pm. Burial will take place at Crown Hill Cemetery.

Ms. Corinne Holcomb

Ms. Corinne Holcomb was born April 14, 1933, in St. Louis, Missouri to Ms. Clara McSpadden Jones.

Corinne attended school at Saint Mary’s Catholic school; where she achieved her diploma in 1950 following graduation. She migrated to Indianapolis, IN. where she attended Clark College and received her Associate degree in Administrative Service. She was employed at the Indiana Insurance Company where she retired in 1980. Corinne professed a hope in Christ at a young age. She was a devoted member of the Little Egypt Baptist Church. She later joined Paraclete of Life Missionary Baptist Church under the leadership of Pastor Taylor, where she served as mother of the church. Corinne enjoyed spending time with her family, doing crossword puzzles, and games. She was an excellent crocheter; she crocheted blankets for all her grandchildren.

Corinne passed away peacefully at home surrounded by her family on February 18,2023. She was preceded in death by her mother, Clara Jones; two sons, Vincent and Kevin Jackson; great grandson, Ka’Don Washington; nephews, Felton Gooseberry and Carlton “Dude.”

Her memory will be cherished by her sister, Marie Hampton; three sons; Kenneth Jackson, David (Jernice) Jackson, and Carlton (Keisha) Holcomb; four daughters; Linda Jones, Donna Lindsey, Michelle Nelson, and Pamela Day; daughter-in-law, Sarah Jackson; nephew, Darryl (Georgia) Gooseberry; twenty grandchildren, 26 great grandchildren, a host of relatives, and friends.

Celebration services will be held on Saturday, Fevruary 25, 2023 at 12:00pm at Paraclete Life Church, 5630 E. 16th St.with visitation there from 10:00-12:00pm. Burial will take place at Crown Hill Cemetery

Mother Katherine A. Pullins Monger

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Mother Katherine A. Pullins Monger

Mother Katherine A. Pullins Monger was born in Indianapolis, IN on August 31, 1932, to the union of Elzie W. Pullins, Sr., and Katherine Brown-Pullins.

Mother Monger was educated in the Indianapolis Public School System and attended Crispus Attucks High School.

Mother Katherine Monger was employed at RCA and Link Belt as an Assembly Line Worker in her early years of her career. She was employed by Ford Motor Company where she retired after 20 years of service. She took pride in her position and would speak often about her “SLINGING IRON” while working.

Mother Katherine Monger also was a faithful and dedicated volunteer for Ellis Mortuary.

Mother Monger was baptized in “Jesus Name” and filled with the precious gift of the Holy Ghost on October 4, 1982 under the Leadership and Pastor of the late Bishop James E. Tyson. She also served faithfully on the Hospitality and Hostess Committee. She also was a faithful attendee of Noonday Bible Class.

Mother Katherine Monger was united in Holy Matrimony to James E. Monger, Sr. (Skipper) on December 24, 1970. They shared a beautiful life together with their blended family. Skipper and Katherine traveled the world both domestic and international. She also traveled the world with her daughter Brenda to different countries.

Mother Katherine Monger was a passionate shopper. She loved to shop at different thrift stores throughout the city. She loved to interact with young people and teased them by “Balling her Fist” at them in a joking manner.

Mother Katherine Monger departed this life on January 30, 2023 at the age of 90 years young. She was preceded in death by her mother, Katherine Brown-Pullins, father, Elzie W. Pullins Sr, husband, James E. Monger, Sr., and three brothers, and two sisters.

She leaves to cherish her memories, daughters, Brenda J. (Cornell) Woods, Chandler, Arizona, Janice K. (Ned) Garrett, Indianapolis, IN, Chyrisse Kerley, Calle Richardson, Mary Monger. sons, James Monger, Jr. (Tammy) Lafayette, IN, David Monger Sr., Randall Monger, Elgin, IL, and Cory Monger. 19 grandchildren, 23 great-grandchildren, 19 great-great grandchildren; sister-in-love, Veronica Pullins. “specialnNiece” Carmen (Peachie) Underwood.

Host of family, friends, and her Christ Church Apostolic Church family.

Celebration of Life services will be held at 12:00pm on Friday, February 10, 2023 at CHrist Church Apostolic, 6601 N. Grandview Drive, with visitation there from 10:00am until service time. Burial will take place at Crown Hill Cemetery. View live services at www.ellismortuary.com and on Facebook live @ Ellis Mortuary

Wanita Baynham

Wanita Marie was born November 17, 1949, to Virgil & Nellie Baynham in Indianapolis, IN.

Wanita gave her life to Christ at a young age. She was an active member at Allen Chapel, she worked in the Young People’s Division & the Women’s Missionary Society. Wanita also sang in the Allenaires Choir, also a member of the Richard Allen Guild. Wanita was a Registered Nurse and she began her career at Marion County General Hospital as a Supervisor in the Trauma Unit.

She was employed at New Hope of Indiana as a Behavioral Supervisor in the New Hope Group Homes. Wanita was also employed at Raphael Health Center. She had a love for music and loved to dance. Wanita also loved to sing a lot, reading a good book was relaxing to her. Her greatest hobby was crafting, making cards & eating!

Wanita was preceded in death by her father and mother, Virgil & Nellie Baynham and her brother, Charles Virgil Baynham.

Wanita leaves to cherish her memory to her son, Frank Jameson IV, sisters, Patricia Wilson, Deborah Taylor, Yvonne Baynham, and brother, Thomas (Josephine) Baynham, many nieces & nephews, cousins & friends.

Celebration of Life services will be held on Saturday, January 14, 2023 at 1:00pm at Allen Chapel AME Church, 637 E. 11th St, with visitation there from 11:00-1:00pm

Jeanette Maxine Hardister-Grady

Jeanette Maxine Hardister-Grady the daughter of James Russell Hardister. Sr and Eve Martine Kelly-Hardister-King, was born December 9th 1944 in Indianapolis In.

Jeanette attended the Indianapolis Public Schools # 26 and Arsenal Technical (Tech) High School.

Jeanette was united in holy wedlock to Leslie N Grady Sr. and to this union 12 children were born.

Jeanette fell in love with Jesus at the age of 19 became a member of the Church of the Living God P.G.T. Temple #2 and was baptized under the leadership of the late Overseer George W. Coleman Sr. and later under the leadership of Overseer Thomas R. Howard Sr., Jeanette was a faithful member in many of the churches, auxiliaries she wore many hats and was very devoted to the task she was given.

Jeanette was a devoted and loving wife, mother, grandmother, great grandmother, sister, sister-in-law, aunt, cousin and friend.

Jeanette owned the first black candy store in the neighborhood and earned the name “The Candy Lady”. She was also the momma and granny of the neighborhood. She made sure the neighborhood kids went to church and knew God.

Jeanette loved Pacers and Colts, she made sure she texted or called to let her love ones know the Pacer or Colts game was on so they can watch along with her.

Jeanette was preceded in death by parents James R. Hardister Sr., Eva M. Kelly Hardister, and bonus mom Lou Bertha Hardister. One sister Helena Dismuke, one daughter Terri M Grady-Hart Carmichael, one son Matthew Grady, Two grandsons Michael Holmes-Fowlkes, Anthony Grady and one great grandson Train A. Quarles.

Jeanette departed this life on January 2nd at the age of 78 years old.

She leaves to cherish her husband Leslie N. Grady Sr. 5, daughters, Carol Darden, LaDonna Quarles, Lezlie Holmes, Lynette (Michael) Pettrie, Naomi Grady; 5 sons, Leslie Jr., William, Darren, Mark Sr and Luke ( Freda) Grady, Sr; one sister, Beverly Shepherd, brother, James R. Hardister Jr. (Laura), 40 grandchildren, 43 great grandchildren and also her best friend Earlene Jones who was liked her sister and Raffielle Miller who she loved like a son-in-law.

Celebration of Life services will be held on Saturday, January 14, 2023 at 12:00pm at Church of the Living God Pillar and Ground of The Truth Temple #2, 4602 Emerson Ave. Visitation will be held on Friday January 13, 2023 at the Church from 6:00-8:00pm. Additional visitation will be on Saturday from 10:00-12:00pm until service time. Burial will take place at New Crown Cemetery

Karen Sue (McCann) Anderson

Karen Sue (McCann) Anderson earned her wings on January 3rd after a long battle of illness.

Karen Sue (McCann) Anderson was born August 16th, 1950 to Roger Eugene McCann Jr and Luella Estelle McCann (who proceeds her in death).

Growing up Karen, affectionately known as Sue attended schools in IPS and Wayne Township. She was a 1968 graduate of Ben Davis High School.

While attending Ben Davis, Karen met her future husband, Robert S Williams Jr. They married August 28th, 1970. To this union, Royce Nichelle was born.

Karen accepted Christ at an early age and was baptized at Christ Temple Apostolic Church. She would later rededicate her life in the name of Jesus Christ. Her passionate belief in our Lord and Savior helped her through her struggles and gave her peace. Her devotion to her daughter and grandchildren, and they to her was evident as they aided in her fierce battle with Multiple Sclerosis. Their close relationship was unmistakable as Karen was held in her daughter’s arms as she transitioned to Glory.

Karen worked at Indiana Bell before joining Blue Cross and Blue Shield where she worked over ten years before becoming ill. She was passionate about many things. She belonged to a woman’s social club called The Mystics and was a member of several Charity Organizations. She also was known to have exquisite taste in clothing and home décor. Her hobbies included drawing, bowling, sewing, and baking.

Karen is proceeded in death by her mother Luella E McCann and brother Roger Eugene III.Her family will remember her humor, fashion savviness, laughter, beauty, and love.

Karen leaves behind to cherish her memory her devoted and loving daughter, Royce (Williams) Lewis. Her grandchildren: Darryl A Lewis Jr, Darrah A Lewis, and Trey W Genus. Her great grandchildren: Anaiya N Lewis, Andrece Hyche, Malorie J Lewis, Royce D Lewis, and Darell K Lewis. Her father Roger E McCann Jr. Siblings: Patrick (Mariann) McCann, Brenda McCann, Tonia “Cooki” Dixon, Margaret Jones, and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Karen will be truly missed.

Celebration of Life services will be held on Friday, January 13, 2023 at 12:00pm at Christ Temple Apostolic Faith Assembly, 430 W. Fall Creek Parkway, with visitation there from 10:00-12:00pm. Entombment will take place at Crown Hill Cemetery

Previous Years Obituaries

2022 Obituaries

Alonzo James Watford, III

Alonzo James Watford, III the son of Alonzo James Watford, Jr and Minnie M. Brown Watford was born on September 20, 1951 in Indianapolis, Indiana.

Alonzo attended the Indianapolis Public School system where he received his primary education. He furthered his education by attending college.

He departed this earthly life on November 17, 2022 at the tender age of 71 years

Alonzo was preceded in death by his mother, Minnie M. Watford and is survived by his son, John Watford; brothers, William Watford, Michael Watford, Andrew Fowlkes, Paul Watford; sister, Elizabeth Mitchell and a host of nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles and cousins

Pierre Lamont Johnson

Pierre Lamont Johnson was born to Eugene Johnson Sr and Gilda King on July 6, 1971 in Indianapolis, Indiana. He attended the Indianapolis Public school system. Pierre departed this earthly life at the tender age of 51 years old on November 15, 2022.

He is survived by his parents, Eugene Johnson and Gilda King; sons, James S. Johnson, Malyk Johnson, Marquise Johnson; daughter, Kierre Johnson; brothers, Eugene E. Johnson, Jr., Darnell Johnson; sister, VaShonda Johnson.

Celebration of Life services held on December 2, 2022 at True Belief Missionary Baptist Church with visitation there from 11:00-1:00pm

Ms. Judy Lynn Woodruff

Ms. Judy Lynn Woodruff, the daughter of Willie Woodruff Sr. and Mildred Woodruff was born July 21, 1964 in Indianapolis, IN.

Judy was employed at various organizations specializing in data entry. Judy attended William Watson Woolens School 45, HL Harshman Middle School 101, and graduated from Arsenal Technical High School in 1982. Judy was blessed to travel the world and visit Germany.

Judy professed her life to Christ at an early age. She was baptized at Hovey Street Church of Christ where she assisted with Sunday School and continued her spiritual development at Fall Creek Church of Christ.

Judy became a loving Mother to Jennifer in 1989. Despite life’s obstacles Judy remained optimistic and had a strong relationship with God. Judy prided herself with having precise mathematical skills. She also enjoyed drawing, and spending time with her grandchildren Brandon and Kalani.

Ms. Judy Lynn Woodruff departed this life on Monday November 14, 2022, at the age of fifty eight years old. Judy was preceded in death by Mother and Father ; Mildred Woodruff, Willie Woodruff Sr, Brother; Michael Woodruff, and Nephew; Derrek Millbrook. She is survived by beloved daughter; Jennifer Faulkner, Sister; Yolanda Taylor, Brother’s; Willie Woodruff Jr. (Cornelia), and Larry Woodruff ( Elise) , a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, church family, and friends.

Anthony Holifield, Jr.

Anthony Holifield, Jr. was known to his friends and close family as Holifield. Anthony was born June 9th, 1985, to Katherine Faye Phillips and Anthony Holifield, Sr. Anthony graduated from Broad Ripple High School and was loved by his teachers and peers. Anthony was known for his larger-than-life smile and his ability to light up any room he walked into. He also loved his family dearly and would do anything for them. He loved to eat and give big kisses and hugs all the time. Anthony cherished spending time and having fun with his siblings and with his daughter Taria who was his #1 supporter, and he was her #1 protector.

Anthony faced many challenges in his short time here on earth, but he always bounced back and didn’t let anyone keep him down. Anthony was a fighter and pushed others to not give up even under the worst of circumstances. Growing up in the church, Anthony believed in the Father, Son and Holy Spirit and had his own special way of reminding you that God is the Judge, NOT YOU.

He will forever be known as the boy who would eat an entire box of cereal to himself as a child and even had his own extra-large bowl in his mothers home. He was preceded in death by his, mother Katherine Faye Phillips.

Chloé Nicole Corbin

Chloé Nicole Corbin was born in Indianapolis, Indiana to Brenda J. Martin and Darryl D. Ellis, Sr. She was a very loving and kind little girl who loved to read, sing, and draw. Chloe' was somewhat shy as a child but later bloomed in a big bubbly personality. She had a lot of fun with her friends and family especially her cousins.

Chloé graduated from North Central High School in 2000. She later studied at Kay's Cosmetology.

Chloé had an extremely special loving relationship with her Granny her other mother, Genola Martin who preceded her in death.

Chloé accepted Christ at an early age. She was a member of Kingdom Apostolic Ministries under the leadership of Bishop Lambert W. Gates, Sr. She served willingly as a Pulpit Nurse and visiting ministers. She loved working for the Lord.

Chloé was employed by Sedgwick. She excelled as Team Lead for over 10 years. Everyone that came in contact with her, loved her sweet personality and working with her. She could be caught singing during work hours and being a bright light for all around.

Chloé met Will while in Preschool, later in High School they were very "friendly" and years later that spark reignited. The flame never went out and they were married in holy matrimony on August 16, 2014. They had a deep love and unbreakable bond that was very strong. She loved being married to Will. Even though they never had children, they had three loving fur babies named Skylar, Gizmo, and baby Gizelle.

Chloé departed this earthly life on Friday, October 28th at 6:07pm surrounded by her loving family.

She leaves to cherish her memory to her strong, loving and devoted; husband, William Corbin; mother and bonus dad, Brenda J. Martin-Lockhart (Patrick), dad and bonus mom, Darryl D. (Adriane) Ellis; sister, Chantelle M. Ellis; brother, Darryl D. Ellis, II; mother in law, Vee (Larry) Shores, father, William (Kathy) Corbin; nephew, Darryl D. Ellis, III; nieces, Jamaria and Janiya Hughes; sister in laws, Tameka Corbin, Fenessha (Justin) James and her god niece, Amaree Murrell; and a host of aunts, uncles, cousins and extended family.

The Celebration of her life will take place on Monday, November 7, 2022 at 12:00pm at Kingdom Apostolic Church, 4900 E. 38th St, with visitation there from 10:00-12:00pm. Burial for Chloe’ will be at Washington Park North Cemetery.

Evangelist Bette Beaven Tate

A LIFE PREPARED

Evangelist Bette Beaven Tate, daughter, sister, wife, mother, grandmother, and friend was born January 28th, 1947 to John William Beaven and Carrie Hill Beaven Watkins in Indianapolis, Indiana. Bette was a student in the Indianapolis Public School System and graduated Crispus Attucks High School. She also graduated from the Ministerial License Course at Aenon Bible College, and she received her Evangelist License through the Pentecostal Assemblies of the World.

“Being confident of this very thing that he which hath begun a good work in you
will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ:”

(Philippians 1:6)

Evangelist Tate was employed at Chrysler and Jenn-Air until its closure in 1996. However, her greatest work was her commitment to serve the Lord. She made the wisest decision of her life when she heard the preached “Word of God” and accepted the Lord Jesus Christ, was baptized in Jesus name and received the gift of the Holy Ghost over 50 years ago at Antioch Apostolic Church under the pastorate of the late Elder John H Grier. On April 12, 1974, Evangelist Tate was joined in holy matrimony with the love of her life, George Thomas Tate. Upon the passing of Elder Grier, the Tates relocated to Zion Tabernacle Apostolic Church under the leadership of Elder Joseph D. Farris and later Suffragan Bishop Thomas E. Griffith where they diligently served on a number of boards & committees for their remaining years in this earthly life.

“For God is not unrighteous to forget your work and labour of love, which ye

have shewed toward his name, in that ye have ministered to the saints, and

do minister. And we desire that every one of you do shew the same

diligence to the full assurance of hope until the end:”

(Hebrews 6: 10-11)

Evangelist Tate was a phenomenal, bible-saved woman of God. She did not compromise when it came to living Holy and upheld the standard of Jesus Christ. A true soldier for the Lord, Evangelist Tate served by committing herself in a plethora of roles in the church, including: Bible Bowl coach, Prison ministry, Power room worker, Altar worker, Sunday school teacher, Women's auxiliary board member, Usher Board President, Missionary Auxiliary President and head of the Bereavement Committee. She also accepted invitations to speak at various speaking engagements.

Evangelist Tate’s life was a living witness of her salvation and evident to everyone she met. She loved people and cared even more for their souls. Evangelist Tate ensured anyone who crossed her path had an opportunity to learn of the goodness of God. Never ashamed of the Gospel, Evangelist Tate would often witness to people and hand out pamphlets, encouraging them to visit her home church to hear about a man named Jesus that can save their soul.

“But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God

must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him.”

(Hebrews 11:6)

Evangelist Tate was a woman of tremendous faith and believed in the power of prayer. Throughout her tests and trials she never lost her belief in God. She gave much of herself to help others in their time of need, often visiting nursing homes, and the sick and shut in. Evangelist Tate was known to encourage others, saying “Keep the faith.” because she knew without it we cannot please God. She was also a faithful giver to her church and regularly donated to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital & International Fellowship of Christian and Jews. She loved her church family dearly.

“And the Lord said unto the servant, Go out unto the highways and hedges,

and compel them to come in, that my house may be filled.”

(Luke 14:23)

In addition to all of her work for the Lord, Evangelist Tate will be remembered for her sense of style. She was known to sport her signature hats and colors as vibrant as her spirit. Evangelist Tate carried herself with class; a true champion for Christ. One would not have to speak with Evangelist Tate long before she stated how proud she was of her daughters, “son-in-love” and grandsons who affectionately called her “Mimi.” She was an exceptional individual that led her family to Christ and to the kitchen as she was an excellent cook. She left an indelible mark on the lives of many in and out of the church. In our hearts she shall remain.

Evangelist Tate departed this life on September 25, 2022 at the age of 75 years, 7 months and 28 days. She is preceded in death by her parents Carrie & John Beaven; loving husband George Thomas Tate; brothers: Dallas Micah Beaven and John William Beaven Jr.; sister: Saundra Jones; Stepson Lars Tate. She leaves to cherish her memory: sisters Patricia Ray and Carmen Bass (Michael); two beloved daughters Yolanda Grier & Shawna Tate-Gilmore (Michael, her “son-in-love”), grandsons Michael “Kyle” Wilson and Lance Gilmore; nieces, nephews, cousins, saints and friends.

Evangelist Tate lived a life prepared to live again.

Celebration of Life services will be held on Friday, October 7, 2022 at 12:00pm at Zion Tabernacle Apostolic Church, 4007 N. Sherman Drive, with visitation there from 10:00-12:00pm. Burial will take place at Washington Park North Cemetery

Marilyn Maxine Hendricks

Marilyn Maxine (Seats) Hendricks was born December 25, 1933, to Gladys M. Turner and Dock H. Lee in Indianapolis, Indiana. Gladys married Charles Mosley Sr. in which he accepted and raised Marilyn as his own.

She received her primary education in the Indianapolis Public Schools. Marilyn graduated from Crispus Attucks High School in 1951. While in school Marilyn enjoyed playing the piano and violin, which is where her nickname “Squeaky” originated. With the love she had for the musical instruments she joined the school choir. After high school she went on to attend Ball State University.

In December of 1951 she was joined in holy matrimony to Leroy Seats. From their union were born seven beautiful children. Marilyn was later united in marriage to Oscar Hendricks.

She was a member of Allen Chapel A.M.E. Church where she had served for many years before joining her husband at Grace Apostolic Church. She worked in the nursery and was a Den Mother for Grace's Boy Scout Troop #563.

Marilyn began her work experience at Mid-City Salt Company where she was employed by her father as a secretary. She also worked for the United States Postal Service, as a Rural Route Mail Carrier. After her career she worked part-time for 7/11 Grocery Store.

Marilyn Maxine Seats Hendricks departed this life on Friday, September 16, 2022, at the age of 88 years. She was preceded in death by her late husband, Oscar Hendricks; daughter, Beverly; sons, Michael, and Leroy; grandson, Gerald (PJ); great granddaughter, Derrinae and great-great grandson, Camden.

She leaves to cherish her memory her children, Ronald Seats, Julie (Bill) Evans, Karen (James) Toliver and Kenneth Seats.

Rosemary Conners

Rosemary Conners was born on June 29, 1930, to the late Everett Wayne Brown and Louel (Whitfield) Brown in Indianapolis, Indiana. She was the eldest of 6 children

Rosemary was united in Holy Matrimony to Robert J. Conners on October 27, 1956 and to this union a son was born, Robert J. Conners, Jr. She was preceded in death by her husband on June 23, 1987.

Rosemary received her undergraduate degree from the Indiana Central University (University of Indianapolis) on June 8, 1956. Rosemary would complete her educational journey by graduating from Butler University with a Master's degree in Education.

Rosemary was a dedicated member of Christ Temple Apostolic Faith Assembly for over fifty years. Two of her true passions in life were serving the Lord and teaching, she was able to do both at Christ Temple where she taught Sunday school for over 30 years.

Rosemary was an elementary school teacher for 30 years; she truly loved having a positive impact on young children. She would often recruit her family to help prepare her classroom for the upcoming school year. She would spend countless hours on lesson plans to ensure her children always received the best she could provide. In her 30 years of teaching the only time Rosemary missed a schedule day of school was to lay her husband to rest.

Rosemary retired from Perry Township School District after 30 years of service. Even after her retirement Rosemary continued to provide her wisdom and knowledge to young minds by working at the Christ Temple Day Care for several more years.

When Rosemary was not at Christ Temple or sending time with her family you could always find her in her backyard tending to her flowers. Every summer her yard would come to life and reflect the love and care she would give to each plant she planted.

C. Rosemary Conners departed this earthly life on September 5, 2022 at the blessed age of 92. She leaves to cherish her memory one son, Robert J. Conners, Jr. (Resa) six grandchildren, Anthony Conners, Peyton Conners, Lamont Osborn, Whitney Conners, Joey Person and Robert J Conners, lll. brother; Cecil Brown (Washington IN.) sisters; Carolyn Vancleave and Martha Bible (Indianapolis IN.) She was preceded in death by her husband, Robert J. Conners, Sr. two brothers, Wayne Brown and Phillip Brown. five great grandchildren and a host of nieces and nephews and extended family and friends.

Celebration of Life services will be held on Saturday, September 17, 2022, at 12:00pm at Christ Temple Apostolic Faith Assembly, 430 W. Fall Creek Parkway, with visitation there from 11:00-12:00pm. Burial will take place at New Crown Cemetery

Mr. Gerald Lynn Smith Jr.

Mr. Gerald Lynn Smith Jr., affectionately known as “PJ” was the oldest of the two children born to Gerald L. Smith Sr. “Peppy” and Julie N. (Seats) Evans. Gerald was born on May 31st, 1981. Gerald attended Indianapolis Public School #69 for a few years prior to transferring into the Pike Township School system. He graduated from Pike High School in 1999.

Gerald found the love of his life in LaTisa A. (Johnson) Smith and they were joined in holy matrimony on September 21st, 2013. To this union was born Mia L. Smith.

Gerald worked for various companies including Coca-Cola, Baker and Taylor and Eli Lily before entering his career as a tempering specialist at Old Castle Envelope.

If you knew Gerald Jr., you knew him as either “PJ” or “G”. As we all know he had a kind and caring soul, his smile was infectious, and he was always there to give you the best joke ever. As a youth, Gerald was a cub scout. He also played in the Pike Youth Sports League along with playing the drums for both Grace Apostolic Church and St. Mark Church of God in Christ. Gerald enjoyed various hobbies such as watching WWE wrestling matches, bowling, skating (where he and his brother earned the nickname “The Glass Brothers”), shooting pool, telling jokes and spending time with family and close friends.

Gerald departed this life on September 6, 2022 at the age of 41. His brother, Ismael Ortiz preceded him in death. He leaves to cherish his loving memory his best friend and wife, LaTisa A. Smith; children, Jayden Pipes and Mia L. Smith; his parents, Gerald L. Smith Sr. (Rebecca); Julie N. Evans (William); father-in-law, Leonardo Johnson Sr. (Kiska); mother-in-law, Myka Miller (Darrell); brothers, Justin D. Smith, David W. Evans (Linda); brother-in-law, Leonardo Johnson Jr. (Erica); sisters, Arminda Ortiz, Kelli Greene, Mishelle Evans; grandparents; Leroy Seats, Sr. and Marilyn Hendricks; godmother, Karen Toliver; godsister, Britteny McDaniel and a host of cousins, aunts, uncles, nieces, and nephews.

The family would like to acknowledge his cousins that were like his brothers, Jeffrey D. Seats Sr. and Michael D. Seats Jr. and his lifelong friends Anthony “TJ” Johnson (Crystal); Richard A. Newson (Amber); Ibin Seay; Derrick O’Connor, and Derrick “Rockstead” Taylor.

Celebration of Life services will be held on Friday, September 16, 2022 at 12:00pm at New Wineskin Ministries 4501 W. 38th St with visitation there from 10:00-12:00pm. Burial will take place at Washington Park North Cemetery

Brenda Faye

Brenda Faye Mumford

Was born in indianola, ms on may 23rd 1957.

She relocated with her family to indianapolis, in mid 1960’s.

Brenda faye fondly known as faye, was an beautiful soul with an enormous since of humor. faye was an awesome, daughter, mother grandmother, great grandmother, sister, cousin and friend.

To know her was to love her, as she always found a way to put a smile on your face and some laughter in your heart. brenda faye was the hardest working women in indianapolis. faye was also known for hot red lipstick and backwards wigs and for some reason she always made sure that during the winter that all the kids had chap stick. just another way that brenda faye showed her love for others. her heart and her love for her family, friends and others was bigger than life and her bright light will be sadly missed.

BRENDA FAYE AS A MOTHER

“Always been in my corner, if I had one more day, one more time to tell you what you mean to me. Love you so very much”. Your son… Carlton.

“When I think of you, I think of Love. I think of Compassion, I think of your smile when happiness rushes across your body. I think of the yelling we got for running in and out as kids. I think of all the times you put our happiness before your own. I think back when you would just sit and talk to us about life. I think of the life you experienced and the stories you told us about it. When I think of you I think of Laughter. When I think of you,

BRENDA FAYE IS PRECEED IN DEATH BY:

Blondine Glover (sister) Otis Wayne Brown Sr.(brother) and Andre Brown (brother).

BRENDA FAYE LEAVES TO CHERISH: Her Mother InellEdwards, two beautiful children; Carlton Mumford and Deundra (Tyni) Long. 7 Grandchildren; Dayshawn, Asia, Jaylon, TR, Jaiden, Jordan and Ny”Air. 2 Great grandchildren; King, and Dallyce. 2 Sister; Delorise (Dee)Wallace, Sandra R. Burns (Charles). 3 Brothers; Charles Carter, Danny Ray Hart(vanessa) and Genis (Don)Brown(Monica) 1 half brother; Anthony Brown(Tasha) and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and a wonderful best friend Priscilla. Last but not least her most special person Mr. William (Bill) Holloway of whom she spent the last 7 years with.

Donna Mae Tipton

Ms. Donna Mae Tipton was born to Bransford Tipton and Waldean Weathers Tipton on April 26, 1961, in Indianapolis, Indiana.

Donna received her education in the Indianapolis Public School System and graduated from Shortridge

High School. She later attended Culinary School.

She confessed a hope in Christ and joined Messiah Missionary Baptist Church. She loved to serve on the culinary ministry.

Donna was a loving, caring, and affectionate person. She was kind-hearted and opened her door to whomever needed it. She loved to crack jokes. She loved her kids. She was strong and fought her way through challenging health crises. Donna’s passion was cooking. She could cook any and everything, but her greens would make you want to slap ya grandkids.

Ms. Donna Mae Tipton departed this earthly life on Wednesday, August 10, 2022, at the age of sixty-one years old. She was preceded in death her parents, Bransford Tipton and Waldean Tipton; sister, Deborah Ann Tipton.

She leaves to cherish her loving memory; husband, Charles Kendrick III; one daughter, Crystal Kendrick; one son, Charles Kendrick; one granddaughter, Nevaeh Kendrick; and a host of nieces, nephews, and other relatives and cherished friends.

Celebration of Life services will be held on Friday, August 19, 2022 at 7:00pm at True Belief Missionary Baptist Church 4829 E. 38th St., with visitation there from 5:00-7:00pm

James Fletcher

Robert Jarone Fletcher Jr. was born on December 6th, 2004, at Wishard Hospital in Indianapolis, IN to his loving mother, Rachael A. Gibson and father, Robert J. Fletcher Sr.

Growing up Robert resided in Indianapolis, IN where he attended school in Pike Township. He dedicated his life to basketball. He was on an AAU team and recently won a championship. He planned to attend college as many colleges considered him for scholarship.

Robert was a beautiful soul, touching lives of everyone he came in contact with. He enjoyed spending time with his siblings, nephew, and his friends. While there are not enough words in the world to describe Robert here are a few; optimistic, outgoing, funny, handsome, determined, and above all loving. He truly had a smile that would light up a room.

Robert departed this life on August 1st, 2022, at the young age of 17 years old.

Robert is preceded in death by his sister; A’shanti’ J. Robinson and his grandfather, Robert L Fletcher.

Robert is survived by his mother, Rachael A. Gibson; brother, Jay’Rone L. Fletcher; sister, Trinitee M. Gibson-Little; father, Robert J. Fletcher Sr., brother, Princeton B. Fletcher, sister, Taleah N. Fletcher; grandmother, Eunice W. Fletcher of Cadiz, Kentucky, uncle, Jeffrey T. Gibson Jr. and a host of cousins, aunts, uncles, and friends who loved him dearly.

Celebration of life services will be held on Friday, August 12, 2022 at 12:00pm at Friendship Missionary Baptist Church, 1301 N. Goodlet Ave, with visitation there 11:00-12:00pm. Burial will take place at New Crown Cemetery.

Juanita Flanagan

Juanita Holbert Flanagan was born on June 22, 1959 and passed away on July 22, 2022. Celebration of life services will be held on Monday, August 1, 2022 at 12:00pm at St John Missionary Baptist Church, with visitation there from 10:00-12:00pm. She attended Riverside IPS #44 and graduated from Northwest High School.

She is survived by her loving husband, Thomas Flanagan; children, Latrisa Flanagan, Dayton (Nikki) Holbert, Terrance Michael Holbert, Gloria Flanagan, Jeannette Flanagan; sisters, Martha (Larry) Hughes, Brenda (Sims) Bledsoe, Martha Jean Burleson, Robbie James; brothers, Clarence ( Jonnie) Holbert, Jr., David Holbert, Ira James, Jr.; 13 grandchildren; 8 great grandchildren; a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, in-laws and extended family.

Burial will take place at Crown Hill Cemetery. Arrangements entrusted to Ellis Mortuary. View live services at

www.ellismortuary.com and Facebook live.

Marcia June Ellis Rasdell

Marcia June Ellis Rasdell was born to Clarence and Mildred Lee Caldwell Ellis on November 6, 1946 in Indianapolis, Indiana. She attended Public Schools #75 and #44 and graduated from Shortridge High School.

Marcia June worked for Railsroadsman Bank which was later renamed Huntington Bank where she later retired.

June was united in Holy Matrimony to William “Bill” Rasdell and enjoyed their many years together traveling to different countries. They never had children but enjoyed raising their airdale dogs down through the years.

Marcia June Ellis Rasdell was preceded in death by her parents, Clarence Ellis, Mildred L. Ellis; brothers, Clarence Ellis, Jr., Vernon Douglas Ellis; sister, Rhonda Lynn Ellis Shackleford.

The Celebration of Life for Marcia June Ellis Rasdell will take place on Wednesday, July 27, 2022. There will be a public visitation from 6:00-8:00pm at Kingdom Apostolic Ministries, 4900 E. 38th St. Burial will take place on Thursday July 28, 2022 at 10:00am at Crown Hill Cemetery. All are welcome to attend and we will gather at the 34th St. gate.

She is survived by her loving husband, William Rasdell; sisters, Claudia M. Merchant, Vivian M. (Ronald) Rice, Patricia J. Clark, Deborah E. (David) Anderson; brothers, Ronald D. (Sheila) Ellis, Darryl D. (Adriane) Ellis; her wonderful nieces, nephews, aunt, cousins, in-laws and extended family. Visitation will be live streamed.

Edythe Tanner

On a cold winter’s day, February 14, 1939 “Love’s Holiday,” God delighted Thomas Weil & Lillian Blanche Dimmitt-Wright with the special gift of light in the birth of their first child, Edythe Ola Wright, in Indianapolis, IN. A gift that came out feet first and ready to walk in her purpose of being the Light of the World.

Edythe’s light was experienced by everyone that had ever crossed her path whether it be from her presence and involvement in her siblingsupbringing; when she walked the halls of Howell High School as one of it’s first African Americans ever to attend; and in the major role she played as mother and grandmother of which she was very protective.

Edythe, named after her grandmother “Edith” was simply the epitome of class, beauty, elegance and excellence in all that she did in life. Her very presence exemplified a dignified grace that engendered a certain contagion that inspired others to look towards her light for guidance. Her delicate attention to detail in providing love and care for her family, her meticulous thoughtfulness in how she presented herself and her home at ALL TIMES.

“Aunt Edy,” as she was affectionally called by her nieces and nephews, look to her as if she was Superwoman, because of the ways she was able to reach them even when their own parents couldn’t reach them. She was literally a rock in a weary land, a shelter in the time of storm, a daycare, a beauty shop, a counseling center and much more to them and others.

In the mid 1950’s she married Howard James Majors, II (later married John Tanner) and the couple bore four children, Howard,III “Sonny,” Jeffery, Cheryl and Thomas. She raised them and her all grandchildren to have a sense of dignity and pride, know their worth and keep a clean a house. She wanted the very best for her family and the example was set and exhibited through her strength, posture and light.

On July 11, 2022, she joined her parents and sons, Sonny & Tony and the rest of the ancestors in that Great Cloud of Witnesses. She passes the torch to her son and daughter, Jeffery and Cheryl, and her grandchildren to continue the work of Being the Light of the World.

Celebration of life services will be held on Saturday, July 23, 2022 at 12:00pm at Jerusalem Temple Apostolic Church, 2125 E. 54th St., with visitation there from 10:00-12;00pm.

Deloris Mimms

Deloris R. Mimms was born on November 28, 1931, to the late Herman Frank Outlaw and Rhoda Bert Jones Outlaw in Evansville, Indiana. She is the 2^nd eldest daughter of twelve children. Deloris was educated in the Evansville Public School system. Deloris was united in Holy Matrimony to Howard A. Mimms on November 25, 1948.

She relocated to Indianapolis, Indiana with her husband, Howard A. Mimms Sr. in 1950 and to this union were born 3 daughters and 3 sons. She was preceded in death by her husband on March 6, 1975, her son, Howard A. Mimms Jr, on June 21, 2019. She nurtured the children in the fear and admonition of the Lord and desired to see each child saved and living sanctified lives.

Deloris R. Mimms is a retiree from the Department of Veterans Affairs following 17 years of dedicated service to the Government of the United States of America.

Deloris was baptized in Jesus Name on April 9, at Christ Temple Apostolic Faith Assembly and received the baptism of the Holy Ghost on September 12, 1957, at Believers in Christ Tabernacle under the Leadership of the late Pastor Jennie Forster.

Deloris served twenty-two years as the leader of the Wednesday morning Prayer Band at the Believers in Christ Tabernacle. After prayer, you could always find Deloris leading the prayer warriors to visit and pray for the sick. This group of Prayer Warriors did whatsoever was necessary to comfort others. Many times, Deloris chauffeured the Pastor to hospitals to pray for the sick, to grocery stores to buy food for the needy. Deloris served as Chairman of the Baptism Committee; she served on the Usher Board, and was a member of the Choir as well. Deloris was the Chairman of the Pastor’s Annual Wedding Anniversary.

Deloris was gifted by God for the profession of a Seamstress and Milliner, and that was her behind-the-lines calling. Deloris made many garments for the saints of the Apostolic Faith churches during the 60’s and 70’s decade. She also spent much time at the shopping centers assisting Pastor Foster when she would purchase clothing, notions, and fabric for garments to be made for the less fortunate.

After the Homegoing of the late Pastor Jennie Yarbough-Forster in 1978, Deloris was fellowshipped into the Christ Temple Apostolic Faith Assembly where she was a member of the Choir under the direction of the late Sis. Jeanette Sprowl. Deloris served four terms as the Chaplain of the Women’s Federation Program under the leadership of the late Velma Blunt-Pullins. Deloris served as a Hostess and attended Elder Robert Crayon’s Sunday school class. Evangelist Mimms was presently a member of the Baptism Committee and the Christ Temple Ministerial Alliance.

She continued her education, attending the ITT Career Institute in Indianapolis. To further her education, she attended Lockyear College where she majored in Fashion Merchandising and graduated Summa Cum Laude receiving an AA Degree in 1988.

Evangelist Deloris R. Mimms engaged in theological studies through Muskegon Bible Institute where she graduated Valor Victorian for Diploma Class of 2004, and later received an AA Degree with honors in 2006, and received a Bachelor of Arts degree in July 2008 under of the leadership of Bishop Wille. J. Duncan.

She leaves to cherish her loving memory: 5 children; 3 daughters, Sharon Diana Mimms, Debra Elaine Mimms and Esther Annette Mimms; 2 sons, David Dewayne (Cynthia) Mimms and Keith Allen (Terri) Mimms. brothers; Donald L. (Shirley) Outlaw of Indianapolis and Arthur (Cathy) Outlaw of Evansville, IN; sisters; Rhoda B. Edwards, Gloria Everhart, Margaret Anderson and Jeanette Outlaw of Evansville, IN. She was preceded in death by her husband, Howard A. Mimms, Sr. son, Howard A. Mimms, Jr.: 3, sisters, Marquette Bonds, Grace Jean Emerson, Petunia M. Calhoun; 33 grandchildren; 47 Great-grandchildren and 18 great-greatgrandchildren; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, in-laws and extended family. As well as the Christ Temple Apostolic Family, and many friends and loved ones..

Deloris Ruth Mimms departed this life on July 5, 2022 to receive her reward to forever be with the Lord.

Deloris R. Mimms is a retiree from the Department of Veterans Affairs following 17 years of dedicated service to the Government of the United States of America.

She leaves to cherish her loving memory: 5 children; 3 daughters, Sharon Diana Mimms, Debra Elaine Mimms and Esther Annette Mimms; 2 sons, David Dewayne (Cynthia) Mimms and Keith Allen (Terri) Mimms. brothers; Donald L. (Shirley) Outlaw of Indianapolis and Arthur (Cathy) Outlaw of Evansville, IN; sisters; Rhoda B. Edwards, Gloria Everhart, Margaret Anderson and Jeanette Outlaw of Evansville, IN. She was preceded in death by her husband, Howard A. Mimms, Sr. son, Howard A. Mimms, Jr.: 3, sisters, Marquette Bonds, Grace Jean Emerson, Petunia M. Calhoun; 33 grandchildren; 47 Great-grandchildren and 18 great-great grandchildren; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, in-laws and extended family. As well as the Christ Temple Apostolic Family, and many friends and loved ones..

Deloris Ruth Mimms departed this life on July 5, 2022 to receive her reward to forever be with the Lord.

Celebration of life services will be on Sunday, July 10, 2022 at 5:00pm at Christ Temple Apostolic Faith Assembly, 430 W. Fall Creek Parkwaywith visitation there from 3:00-5:00pm

Mary Nell Jones

Mary Nell Jones was born August 22,1937 in Henderson, Tennessee to the late William & Emma Jones. Mary attended Chester County High School in Henderson, Tennessee.

At an early age she confessed her love for Christ and joined the Church of Christ In Henderson, Tennessee.

In her early adulthood she moved to Indianapolis, Indiana.

She was a member of Friendship Missionary Baptist Church. She always loved God. Her faith never wavered. Two of her favorite quotes were “If you do your best, God will do the rest.” The other one was “Give it to God.”

Mary worked at the Federal Building for over twenty years and then she worked side by side with her eldest daughter, Cheria at her daycare Bright Beginnings Child Care for over eighteen years before she retired.

Mary was a strong remarkable woman. She was a wonderful combination of warmth, kindness, laughter and love.

Mary loved talking on FaceTime. If she couldn’t see you, she would say “I can’t see you”. So, when you called her, or if she called you, she had to see your face, and then she will smile.

Family was everything to her. The love for her children, grandchildren and great grandchildren was unconditional love. She was full of love and wanted everyone to love one another.

Mary was preceded in death by her father, William Jones; mother, Emma Jones; brothers, William Jones, Franklin Jones, Allen Jones; sister, Emma Lee Phelps and granddaughter, India Manson.

Mary leaves to cherish her loving memories: sister, Mattie Franklin; sons, Deacon Tim Carter (Janice), Rev Danny Carter (Nina), Gary Carter; daughters, Cheria Harper, Cassandra Manson (William) and Shonna Carter; 14 grandchildren; 30 great grandchildren; hosts of nieces and nephews; best friend Phyllis Cushingberry.

DeShawn Green

Mr. DeShawn Lamont Green the son of the late Clarence Dixon and Sandra Green Jones was born November 9, 1986 in Indianapolis Indiana.

He attended Washington Middle School and Northwest High School where he was a football star. He was employed at Stanley Steamer and was an entrepreneur. DeShawn was baptized at Mt Zion Apostolic church on Mother’s Day May. 13, 2018. His favorite gospel artist was Charles Jenkins and his favorite song was War.

DeShawn was a loving father, son, uncle, nephew, cousin and friend to those he came in contact with. Shawn enjoyed playing video games and playing basketball and spending time with his children, family and friends. He will be sadly missed by all who knew him and loved him.

DeShawn departed his life on Monday, May 23, 2022 At the age of 35.

He leaves to cherish in loving memory his mother, Sandra Green Jones and his grandmother, Mary P Johnson and his four children, Bryson DeShawn Green, Brielle Ta’Shawn Green, Greyson DeShawn Green, Jacion La’Marr Manning, two brothers, Pierre Jones Jr, Trai Jones and a host of aunts, uncles ,cousins and nieces, nephews and other relatives and many cherished friends.

RONALD “RB” JONES

RONALD “RB” JONES was born on September 1, 1966, to Josie Springer Jones and Lee Roy Pernell in Indianapolis, Indiana. As a child Ronald attended Loving Baptist Missionary Church. Ronald was baptized at an early age and accepted Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior.

RONALD attended school #41 and obtained a GED at Grace College. He was a comedian, a loving brother and uncle, extremely family oriented, a gun lover and a lover of food.

RONALD was employed at The Foundery and Hornings for several years, as well as a cook at Tots to Teens and Prosperity Enrichment.

RONALD passed away on Tuesday May 3, 2022 at the age of 55. He is preceded in death by common law wife Luise Baker , his grandmother Lelar Mae Jones, mother and step-dad Josie Lee and Ben Springer, father Lee Roy Pernell, brothers Robert Earl Jones, Lee Eddie Jones, and nephew Ronnie Jones, niece Ranyiah Jones.

He leaves to cherish his memory, brother Michael Jones, uncle Clinton Jones, children Rayon Dillard, step daughter Latoya Snoten, grandchildren Landon Snorten and London Snorten, nephew Reggie Jones, nieces Latasha Gaskin, Melissa Gaskin, Robin Jones, and a host great nieces, nephews, his girlfriend Virginia Watkins Fleming and family and friends.

Celebration of Life services will be held on Saturday, May 14, 2022 at 12:00pm at Barnes United Methodist Church, with visitation there from 10:00am-12:00pm. Burial will take place at Sutherland Park Cemetery. Final arrangements entrusted to Ellis Mortuary

Oliver Louis Flanagan

Oliver Louis Flanagan was born in Athens, Alabama on October, 1, 1929, the 7th child of Thomas and Cora (Moseley – maiden name) Flanagan. He attended Trinity High School, class of 1948 before earning a bachelor’s degree in 1954 from Alabama A&M University in Huntsville, Alabama. He was the proud first college graduate in his family.

Oliver was baptized in 1941 at James Chapel Missionary Baptist Church in Athens, AL. He moved to Indianapolis in 1951 and soon thereafter became a member of the Kingsley Terrace Church of Christ in Indianapolis, IN after he married Gloria Ann Brown of Elkmont, AL, who he met while in high school. To this union five children were born, Annette Robinson (John), Harriet “Nee-Cee,” (deceased), Michael “O” Saahir (Carolyn), Thomas (Juanita), Dawud “David” Abdullah (Jennifer), plus a bonus-daughter, Rene Parker (Tony). He remained a member of Kingsley Terrace until his children were grown; thereafter returning to his Baptist roots. Becoming a member of St. John’s Missionary Baptist Church where he remained a faithful member who was dedicated to his church.

He loved his Church! Oliver fulfilled many positions at St. John’s MBC. He was a Sunday School teacher, superintendent of Sunday School, and he supported the Laymen’s Department of Progressive National Baptist Convention – serving as president of local programs. He also was the Indiana State Laymen and the Midwest Region. Oliver served as President of Christian Education, MLK State Convention.

Oliver was employed with the United States Postal Service from January of 1955 to June 1, 1987 on the Tour-3 shift, from 3-11 p.m. shift as an expeditor dual-primary, the person who made sure that the dispatchers of his section were taken care of. Working that shift allowed him time to work part-time as a substitute teaching in the Indianapolis Public Schools where he at times taught his own children, nieces and nephews, and grandchildren. Oliver continued sub-teaching after life at the post office, often teaching at Emmanuel High School where he even he taught his granddaughter, also named Gloria, biology and U.S. History for the 1996-1998 school years. All the students in her class also called him “Grand Pa.”

Oliver loved to travel with his family and his companion Mark Herring, traveling to Europe, the Holy Lands, and numerous places around the United States. Oliver spent a lot of time with all of his children attending all of their grade school, high school and college graduations. He didn’t miss these events. He also was very much a part of his children’s extra-curricular events as well as taking them to Indiana University Hoosier football games and once to Chicago to see the Bears NFL team play. His sons still have fond memories of traveling with their father and Bill Holt to Philadelphia, PA in 1972. When his children’s mother, Gloria, was seriously ill, he personally drove them from Indianapolis to Alabama to see their mother for her last Mother’s Day and again he drove them to Alabama in the first week of June when school let out. Gloria died a few weeks later on June 23, 2970, he returned to support his children at her funeral. Oliver’s social activities included being active with the AMENER’S CLUB and the Alabama A&M University Alumni Association. In 2021, at the annual Alumni Picnic in Indianapolis, Oliver was recognized as the oldest local alumni member, and he was awarded with an alumni jacket that he wore very proudly.

He was a well-dressed man – from head-to-toe – especially when going to church and other social events. He delighted in receiving compliments on his attire; from whoever and wherever.

Oliver passed away on April 30, 2022 and was preceded in death by his parents, daughter Harriet, and all of his siblings, Joe Tom, William, Minnie Sue, Daniel, Hazel, and Carrie Louise. In addition to his children, he leaves to cherish his memory 17 grandchildren, Jonnette Baker, Latrise “Re-Re” Flanagan, Damon Flanagan Taziyah, Aline “Kita” Modlin, Daymon Holbert, Mikal Porter, Terrance Michael (deceased), Gloria Flanagan, Jannette Flanagan, John “Tony” Pree, Hamid Saahir, Natasha Cradddock, Muhammed Saahir, Muhammad Abdullah, David Williams, Jr., Mansur Abdullah, and Jinnah Abdullah as well as a growing host of 38 great-grandchildren, and 12 great-great-grandchildren; numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Celebration of life services will be held on Wednesday, May 11, 2022 at 1:00pm at St John Missionary Baptist Church, with visitation held there from 11:00-1:00pm. Burial will take place at Washington Park North Cemetery. Final arrangements entrusted to Ellis Mortuary.

Sharon Endsley

If there were enough words in our language, we could use this space to make the world realize what a wonderful woman, Sharon M. Endsley was. We could explain the impacts she made on all our lives, and all the ways in which she made lives better for all who knew her. We could begin by talking about her life growing up with her brothers and sisters, and her deep love for each of them.

We would talk about the sacrifices she lovingly made as a parent to all her children and grandchildren. We could linger on the fact that she was the rock of her family, and that she worked her hardest to provide for them. About how she somehow always had the right words and actions to change any situation, but sometimes there are just not enough words in any language to express what a wonderful woman she truly was. Filled with such honor, dignity and grace, the legacy that Sharon leaves behind is unparalleled, and worthy of much more than words can describe.

The world was blessed with the birth of Sharon M. Washington Endsley on June 7, 1958, in Indianapolis, Indiana to her parents, Jesse James Washington, Sr., and Egretha Townsend Washington. Sharon grew up attending the Indianapolis Public School system and graduated from John Marshall High School.

Sharon worked for the FSSA for the State of Indiana until she retired in 2019. Her favorite hobbies were taking care of her grandchildren, binge-watching movies, and old television shows.

Sharon accepted Christ at an early age and continued her walk with the Lord and was a member of Universal Ministries Worldwide Assembly and was a Minister of the Gospel. In the year 2000, Sharon fought a battle with cancer but, eventually won when she accepted her final call and went home to be with her Lord and Savior.

Sharon M. Washington Endsley departed this earthly life on April 22, 2022 but she accomplished so much during her life, her greatest legacy is one filled with pride and love. Sharon was the pillar of support, hope, and strength to all who loved her. She was preceded in death by her parents, Jesse James Washington, Sr. and her mother, Egretha Townsend Washington; grandson, Amani Gregg; brothers, Jesse James, Jr., Kenny Washington.

Sharon M. Washington Endsley is lovingly survived by her 3 sons, Jaja Endsley, Onajae (Nicole) Endsley, Eugene Endsley; her only daughter, Ayo Smith; grandchildren, Donovan McAtee, Saadiya Endsley, Onajae Endsley Jr., Aris Gregg, Jr., Akin Smith, Jayson Endsley, Jaja Moore and O’Siyah Endsley. Great-grandchildren; Alexandra McAtee, A’lahni Gregg and Amora McAtee; brothers, Sifa (Lillie) Wekawa, Darryl Washington and Antoine (Jackie) Washington; sister, Beverly (Keith) Winmberly; her bonus sister, Regina Harris; a special friend, Shelley Harder and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Celebration of Life services will be held on Saturday, May 7, 2022 at 12:00pm at Martindale Avenue Church, 2402 Dr. Andrew J. Brown Ave, with visitation there from 10:00-12:00pm. Burial will take place at Crown Hill Cemetery.

Phillip Everett Brown, Jr.

Phillip Everett Brown, Jr. was born on December 6, 1961 in Indianapolis, Indiana. He was the son of the late Phillip Everette Brown, Sr. and Joanne Marie (Phillips) Brown. Affectionately known as Phil or Phil-Jo, a combination of his Dad and Mom’s first names (Philip and Joanne), was the first grandchild on both sides of the family.

Phil attended North Central High School in Indianapolis, Indiana and went on to matriculate from ITT Technical Institute, earning a degree in Architectural Engineering Technology. Phil was AutoCAD certified and attended Ivy Tech majoring in business. He also earned his CDL, Class-A commercial driver’s license and for a while drove tractor trailer semi for Werner Enterprises.

Phil accepted Christ in his life, and was baptized at Christ Temple Apostolic Faith Assembly as a youth and received Holy Spirit baptism while a member of New Wineskin Ministries. He was a dedicated supporter of the New Wineskin Men’s ministries and especially enjoyed biking outings with the brothers, as he was an avid biker. He always had a quiet, and kind demeanor. Later in life Phil became a pharmaceutical courier for Mideast Delivery Solutions. Phil never married or had children, and his brothers were his life.

Phillip Everett Brown Jr departed this earthly life on April 28, 2022 at the age of 60. He was preceded in death by his Father Phillip Everett Brown, Sr., and mother Joanne Marie (Phillips) Brown. He leaves to cherish his memory his step-mother Laraine Tapps, his brothers, Mark (Anne) Brown Sr, Kenneth Brown, and Terrance (Aquila) Brown, step-brothers Keith Tapps and Porter Tapps, step-sister Kendra Tapps, niece Jordyn Nicole Moses, and nephews David Brown, Mark Brown II, and Alex Brown, as well as, a host of other relatives, and friends.

Rev. Eugene Wesley Smith

The Rev. Eugene Wesley Smith entered this world on March 7, 1954 and was received into the loving arms of The Rev. Eugene Smith and Mrs. Norma Marie Fields Smith.

In II Timothy 4:7-8 (KJV), the Apostle Paul writes “I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith: Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing.”

Eugene Wesley was a man who left a rich legacy based upon a deep abiding faith. That faith was deeply steeped in lessons taught by example, generosity and love toward the path of oneness with God our Creator, family, and business accomplishments.

Eugene Wesley was deeply spiritual in his studies, and shared his knowledge of the revelations God allowed him to discover. He encouraged others to be spiritually grounded and to embrace God’s will for their lives. He always looked for and saw the best in others.

As the years went by, with much being revealed through the COVID-19 pandemic, wars, violence, and total lack of regard for human life, he taught with a sense of urgency as a “dying man teaching to a dying world.”

Family was at the center of to Eugene Wesley’s life. His family gave him a sense of foundation and purpose. As a child, he realized he was the answer to his mother Norma Fields Smith’s prayers for a child – much like Hannah, the mother of Samuel in the Bible.

When God answered that prayer, Eugene Wesley became the eldest of three siblings born to Mrs. Norma Marie Fields Smith and The Rev. Eugene Smith. There was Eugene Wesley, The Rev. Dr. Ronald Drew Smith and Ms. Robin Smith Nichols.

These three siblings did everything together. They were each other’s best friends and soul mates. Sometimes they were referred to as the “Three Musketeers.” Like many families with kids growing up through the years, they learned so much about themselves through the sacrificial love made for and with one another.

Eugene Wesley never wanted to let anyone down. He was loving, kind, protective, and generous to others.

Most saw Eugene Wesley in his professional and serious mode. Actually, he had funny sayings that would make you laugh so hard that he got tickled and referred to himself, “as Gene Smith, the funny guy.” Hearing his belly laugh would make everyone hysterical – you couldn’t stop laughing at his jokes.

Eugene Wesley was a brilliant businessman. He started his career in the steel business at Jones & Laughlin Steel in Indianapolis, IN in the mid 70’s. He learned all the various steel products and rose to become one of the youngest inside sales persons in the company.

Eugene Wesley’s career in the steel business soared as a brokerage consultant, taking him to various cities and capacities until he launched his own steel brokerage company. Eugene Wesley learned the highs and lows of the business world, and God blessed him to continue to grow his own company.

In November 2019, Eugene Wesley started a new company, G S Metals, LLC, in Riverside California. He was excited because this is now a family company and part of his legacy.

Eugene Wesley Smith joined his parents as part of the great cloud of witnesses on April 8, 2022 -- twelve years to the date that his father, Rev. Eugene Smith, passed away. He completed his earthly mission on at the age of 68, and took flight from his earthly tent.

His father was Pastor Emeritus of Christ’s Open Door Baptist Church in Indianapolis at the time of his passing, while Gene was a licensed minister of Christ’s Open Door as well.

Eugene Wesley and Leanett Loury Smith were married 40 years when Leanett completed her Earthly mission in July 2021. God blessed their union with three surviving sons — Eugene Loury, Wesley Matthew, and Everett Drew Smith (Mrs. Shannon Shawnte’ Smith Eugene Wesley proudly referred to as “Daughter”).

Eugene Wesley also has two surviving sons, Edward Eugene (Angela) and Johnathan Wesley Smith, with his first wife Barbara Ann Anderson.

Eugene Wesley loved his children, and his four surviving grandchildren – grandsons Dimitri Akira, Dorian Ascher, and Everett Drew Jr., and granddaughter, Gianna Taylor Smith. His two siblings, The Rev. Dr. Ronald Drew Smith (The Rev. Dr. Angelique Walker-Smith), and Ms. Robin Smith Nichols (Mr. Mark Nichols) survive to carry on his legacy.

Eugene Wesley also is survived by a host of family and friends who love him dearly – brothers, aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and cousins.

Kelly B. Gilbert

Kelly B. Gilbert was born in Indianapolis, Indiana on January 21, 1965, to Frederick E. Gilbert and Elizabeth Smith Gilbert. Both his parents; brother, Minister Kevin E. Gilbert and sister, Kathy E. Gilbert Williams.

Kelly B. Gilbert departed this life on Sunday, April 10, 2022, due to complications from his sickle cell anemia at the early age of 57 years old.

Kelly loved life even through his sickle cell condition and he never stopped giving God the Praise even through his sickness.

At an early age Kelly devoted his life to the Lord and was a member of Christ Church Apostolic during the mid-70’s and 80’s under the leadership of the late Bishop James E. Tyson. He later joined fellowship with Pastor Samuel Bradley and the Philadelphia Apostolic Church up until his health began to fail and due to the pandemic epidemic.

Kelly went through the Washington Township school system and graduated from North Central High School in 1983. He was really gifted in drawing, designing comic books with heroes with great dialog. He truly loved ALL his family and most times you would always see him with his older brother Keith. You wouldn’t see one without the other.

Kelly B. Gilbert leaves to cherish his loving memory; two brothers, Keith E. Gilbert and Kenneth H. Gilbert; his nieces and nephews, Kenneth II, Kenya, Kendall, Kent, Kevin II, Nicole, Brittany, Eric, Terrace Jr., Tanisha, Tyler; uncle, Smith Gilbert; aunts, Magg Dowdy Gilbert, Mattie Smith Minton; cousins, extended family and friends.

Celebration of Life services will be on Friday, April 22, 2022 at 12:00pm at Jerusalem Temple Apostolic Church, 2125 E. 54th with visitation there from 10:00-12:00pm. Burial will take place at Sutherland Park Cemetery.

Oscar Thomas

If there were enough words in our language, we could use this space to make the world realize what a wonderful man, Oscar D. Thomas Sr. truly was. We could explain the impacts he made on all of our lives, and all the ways in which he made lives better for all who knew him. We could begin by talking about his life growing up with five sisters, and his deep love for each of them. Or we could discuss his achievements as an All-Star basketball player and his dreams of playing in the NBA. We could talk about the sacrifices he lovingly made as a parent to all of his children, including step-children that he was a father to as if they were his own. We could linger on the fact that he was the rock of his family, that he worked harder than anyone, and somehow still provided support and guidance that was above what anyone could ever even dream. About how he somehow always had the right words and actions to change any situation. But, sometimes there are just not enough words in any language to express what a wonderful man he truly was. Filled with such honor, dignity and grace, the legend that Oscar leaves behind is unparalleled, and worthy of so much more than words can describe.

The world was blessed with the birth of Oscar D. Thomas Sr. on May 23, 1960, in Jackson, Mississippi. His late parents, Oscar and Evangelist Ruth Thomas, could not have been more proud of their one and only son. Oscar grew up attending Indianapolis Public School No. 41 and Crispus Attucks High School where he loved to lead his team on the basketball court. He was a man full of integrity, and even made the honorable sacrifice of enlisting in the Marines in order to not only serve our country, but to have the means to take care of his mother's car, which he had accidentally damaged prior.

Oscar graciously devoted over 30 years of his life to caring for adults with Autism as a Direct Support Professional for St. Vincent New Hope, where he earned much respect and admiration from fellow colleagues. The level of passionate care, protection and understanding that he gave his patients, set the bar high for anyone following in his shoes. His love of helping others extended far beyond his occupation. Oscar was the type of man who would give a stranger the last bite of food on Earth, even if it meant that he would have none. His caring and compassionate ways were not lost on anyone who crossed his path.

When Oscar wasn't working or spending time with family, you could most often find him either watching sports with his friends, or enjoying his old school rides. He loved his Oldsmobile, and over the years, also had Cadillac's and Lincoln's that stole his heart. Full of class and style himself, Oscar loved to drive his old cars and turn heads. He also loved to make people laugh. He was a funny man with a quick-wit who could make a joke about almost anything.

Though Oscar accomplished so much during his life, his greatest legacy is one filled with pride and love; his family. A family-man in every sense of the word, Oscar was the pillar of support, hope, and strength to all who loved him. Oscar was a loving father and step-father to sons; Jerel Dean, Justin Dixon, Sean Dixon, Oscar D. Thomas Jr., and Diah Thomas ; and daughter, Don'ya N. Thomas. In addition to his children, he loved being a grandfather to his four grandchildren; Anthony Moon, Anliyah Moon, Lmyah Moon and Blessyn Moon. He had a special bond that can never be broken with each of his sisters, Patricia Brown-Bacon, Kathleen Cowherd, Jackie Denny and including his two sisters who passed away prior to his death; Judy Last and Sandra Thomas.

When Oscar succumbed to cancer on March 17, 2022, in Indianapolis , Indiana, his family and friends were more than devastated. They lost their father, grandfather, brother, friend, and their uncle; but in that moment, they also lost their world, their pillar, their rock, their confidant, their supporter, and the man that made them feel special no matter what.

Celebration of Life service will be held on Saturday, April 2, 2022 at 12:00pm at Resurrection Community Church, 2502 E. 38th., with visitation there from 10:00-12:00pm. Burial will take place at Floral Park Cemetery. Final arrangements entrusted to Ellis Mortuary.

Michael Jones

If space allowed, we could write about Deacon Jones’s formative years, his school days, and the time he spent in the Marine Corps. We could tell stories of the years he spent raising a family and establishing his place in the world. We could attempt to chronicle the many construction projects that he completed around the city of Indianapolis and beyond – projects that stand as monuments to his skillfulness and talent – which includes the building you’re sitting in today. We could tell you about the many trips that he took to destinations scattered around the globe. We could consider the worldly goods that he amassed and the goals he achieved. But, at the end of the day, Deacon Jones’s greatest legacy is one of faith, family and friendships.

If you knew Deacon Jones in his early years, you might not have recognized him in his later years. While Deacon Jones was a dedicated, hard-working husband and father, he openly admitted that the “younger Michael” didn’t know how to express love. Deacon experienced a great spiritual transformation while serving as a member of Agape Apostolic Faith Assembly. Guided by the leadership of his gifted pastor, Bishop Burt, and shaped by the influence of his first wife, Sister Jessie, Deacon Jones began a journey of change. After many years of yielding to the life-altering power of the Holy Ghost, Deacon Jones learned how to love well.

Deacon Jones went on to develop rich relationships with each of his children, their spouses,, his grandchildren, and his great-grandchildren. He was always present in their lives. He was quick to offer counsel, lend a hand or share a laugh. He fulfilled his God-given role in their lives as only a father can, and for that they are grateful. Because of him, his family can quote the Psalmist who said, “Yea, I have a goodly heritage.”

Deacon Jones was heard to say that God blessed him to hit the marital jackpot twice. After the passing of his first wife, Deacon Jones greatly desired to remarry. When he met Sister Lorine Kelley of Alabama, he knew that she was “the one.” In Sister Lorine, he found a woman who is godly, gracious and kind. She lovingly embraces his family in the same way that he embraced hers.

Deacon Jones was a witness for Christ, and his method was simple. He carried Agape business cards in his wallet and invited people to church whenever he saw an opportunity. He invited waitresses, grocery clerks and bank tellers. In the last week of his life, with a limited ability to speak, he even invited his hospice nurse to come to church. Deacon Jones wanted everyone to know the transforming power of the Holy Ghost. We’re glad you’re here today. In honor of him we’ll ask, if you don’t have the Holy Ghost, will you come back to visit with us this Sunday? In the words of Deacon Jones, “Who wouldn’t serve a God like this?”

Deacon Michael R. Jones, Sr., went to sleep in Jesus on March 6, 2022, with his family by his side. He leaves to cherish his fond memory his wife, Lorine R. Jones; sons, Michael R. (LaShonda) Jones, Jr., Christopher A. (Genevie) Jones; daughters, Michelle D. (Brian) Starks, Joyce T. (Jeremie) Bell, Melissa L. (Jayson) Officer, Courtney M. Orville) Demery; sister, Frances Jones Robinson; 29 grandchildren; 3 great grandchildren; brothers and sisters in love; a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and extended family members and the Agape Apostolic Faith Assembly Church.

Celebration of life services will be held on Saturday, March 12, 2022 at 12:00pm at Agape’ Apostolic Faith Assembly, 6240 Georgetown Rd. with visitation there from 10:00-12:00pm.

Terrie Lynn Williams

Terrie Lynn Williams was born September 7, 1961, in Indianapolis, Indiana to Ernest Williams and Gladys M. Bramlett Williams.

Terrie attended the Indianapolis Public school system and graduated from Arsenal Technical High school.

At an early age in life Terrie grew up in Christ Temple Apostolic Church and then moved her membership to Christ Church Apostolic under the late Bishop James E. Tyson. Terrie loved the Lord and enjoyed attending Bible class and Sunday morning services and fellowshipping with the young people at the Church.

Terrie eventually moved to San Diego, California with her children for 16 years and enjoyed travelling all around the world.

Terrie had a love for her children and grandchildren and during the holiday she would love to cook and bake for them. She truly loved playing with her grandchildren and just enjoying her time with her family. Terrie was a loving mother, sister, grandmother and shared a special bond with many of her friends.

Terrie Lynn Williams departed this earthly life on Friday, February 18, 2022, at the tender age of 60 years old. She was preceded in death by her parents, Ernest Williams and Gladys Williams, sisters, Gwen G. Williams, Sheila R. Williams and brother, Harold T. Williams; great aunt, Daisy L. Benson; niece, Keyonia R. Dunn.

She leaves to cherish her memory, her children, 2 daughters, Briana N. Owens-Harris, Mikia M. Bell; 3 sons, Michael T. Owens, DeVante M. Williams, Jordan S. Williams; 5 brothers, Ernest F. Williams, Phillip Dunn, Jr., Michael T. Owens, Jeffery R. Williams, Ricky A. Williams; 3 sisters, Debra A. Sweatte, Patricia A. Williams, Gina Williams; a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

Celebration of Life services will be held on Monday, February 28, 2022 at 12:00pm at Hovey Street Church of Christ, 2338 Hovey St. with visitation there from 11:00am. Stream live services at Facebook live on Ellis Mortuary, Inc.

Larry Eugene King

Larry Eugene King was born, on May 22, 1953 in Indianapolis, Indiana to Julius King and Deloris Hughes. Within that union, three children were born and he was the middle of the three. Larry made his heavenly transition on Thursday February 10, 2022 at the tender age of sixty-eight.

Larry attended Arsenal Technical High School. Upon his completion of High School, he enlisted in the Army where he served our country for two years in Germany where he was stationed. When Larry returned home from the Army he went right to work. He held various jobs during his lifetime. Larry was employed at Indiana Vocational Technical College in June of 1977 as a Night Supervisor, Juvenile Detention Center in March of 1981 as a Unit Supervisor and Northeast Sector (Community Action) in 1985, as an Outreach Specialist. Years later, he accepted a position at Sankyo American Inc. in 1999 where he was currently working as a Lead Material Handler and looking forward to retirement.

Larry joined Mt Zion Apostolic Church where he was baptized and filled with the Holy Ghost, March 17, 1998. He was later appointed a Deacon by Bishop Lambert Gates to the Official Board in 2000.

In 1981 Larry received news that he was going to be a father and was elated to know he was having a baby girl. Larry was a Star Wars fan and loved his sports, specifically the New York Yankees and he would always represent by wearing the Jerseys and hats.

Larry was very Comedic. When he came around you knew there would be fun and laughter. He enjoyed spending time with those he loved and rarely missed family gatherings. He also had a serious side and was very private. Larry was a fun-loving father, brother, uncle, friend and Deacon also known as "POPS" and will truly be missed by everyone who knew him.

Larry leaves to forever cherish his memory of his daughters; Anitra S. King and Qiana Tucker; sisters, Jackie Mendoza, Sandra Zinnerman and Kaye Thornell; brothers, Richard Lesley, Julius King, Mark King; twelve grandchildren and a host of nieces, nephews, and friends.

Preceding him in death are his parents Julius King and Deloris Hughes, sister's Beverly King and Vanessa Lyles.

Celebration of life services will be held on Saturday, February 19, 2022 at 12:00pm at Kingdom Apostolic Church, 4900 E 38th St., with visitation there from 11:00am until time of service. View live services at www.ellismortuary.com or Facebook Live

Michael Canady

MIKE, the third child of Jesse Canady and Marneas Moten Canady was born on May 5, 1947 in Indianapolis Indiana. He attended IPS School #63 and was a graduate of Crispus Attucks High School.

MIKE was drafted into the U.S. Army, served in Vietnam and was honorably discharged.

MIKE completed certification at the Indianapolis Skills Center of Wayne Township by Provisions of the Manpower Development and Training Act and was a trained machinist. He worked at several production companies around the Indianapolis area.

MIKE, because of service connected injuries, spent many days, weeks, months and years at Hospitals and Veterans Healthcare Facilities. He last hospitalization period from December 21, 2021 to January 25, 2002 was followed by two days at home before he left his earthly home on January 27, 2022.

MIKE’S last words were “You have reached the home of Michael Canady, I’m not available, Please leave a message. Thank You.”

Celebration of Life services will be held on Monday, February 7, 2022 at 11:00am at True Belief Missionary Baptist Church, with visitation there from 10:00am. Masks are required.

Private burial will take place at Floral Park Cemetery. Final arrangements entrusted to Ellis Mortuary

Charles R. Hughes

Charles R. Hughes (aka Chip) was born in Indianapolis on October 3, 1939. He was an adventurous child. Many a day, he would be out and about on his tricycle riding through the neighborhood. Around the age of 13, he and some of his friends (unbeknownst to their mothers), started hopping the freight train to Chicago. They knew what time the train would ride through the area and what time it would leave to return to Indianapolis. They made friends there, but always made sure to catch that returning train to Indianapolis!

Charles also loved the circus and wanted to run away with them. He once played hooky from church and spent the day at the park with the circus people. Needless to say, his return home that night was a bit “warming”!

His favorite sports were swimming and basketball. Most days you could catch him at Douglas Park doing one or the other.

Charles attended Arsenal Technical High School. He enlisted in the Navy and proudly served his country. He was exposed to Agent Orange during his tour in Vietnam. Soon after leaving the service, he became employed with the United States Postal Service as a Mailhandler. He played in many basketball tournaments at the USPS and also coached. He retired from the USPS on July 3, 1997.

Charles was a music connoisseur. Outside of classical music, everything was fair game. His collection would remind you of a mini record shop. He loved jazz most of all.

Charles was a member of the “Circle City Vintage” car club. He loved old cars. So much so, that he rebuilt a 1936 Ford he affectionately named “36 Trix”. It was as yellow as a school bus! He sold that car and bought a 1941 Chevy. He fixed it up and was able to drive it. As a result of being exposed to Agent Orange, he developed Parkinson’s. After a few years, he was unable to continue working on the car and reluctantly sold it.

Charles loved his family and would do anything for them. He was truly a family man. Charles was united in matrimony to Audrey Jones on January 11, 1997. On January 11, 2022, they celebrated their 25th anniversary.

Charles departed this life on January 21, 2022 at the age of 82. His father, Thomas Hughes, and mother Evangelist Alma Hedgepath preceded him in death. He is survived by his wife Audrey, sons Timothy (Soledad) and Lamont, siblings Alma Boyd (Bishop Aaron Boyd, deceased), Diane Brewer (Harold), Deborah Watts (Arthur), Clayton, Susan, Walter, Elaine Malone (Arthur), Sharon Siggers (Michael), Thomas, Gloria Tate and Alan Hughes, grandchildren Alejandra, Sofia and Hendrix, numerous cousins, nieces and nephews.

Celebration of Life services will be held on Monday, February 7, 2022 at 12:00pm at Kingdom Apostolic Ministries, 4900 E. 38th St. with visitation there from 11:00-12:00pm.

Dorothy Mae Curry-Davis

Dorothy Mae Curry-Davis was born on September 10, 1930, to the union of Clyde T. Curry, Sr. and Lola Mae Dillion-Curry, in Indianapolis Indiana. Dorothy transitioned from earth to glory on January 14, 2022 at 11:52 p.m.

Dorothy Mae was baptized at Christ Temple Church at young age and received the gift of the Holy Ghost when she was fifteen years of age. Dorothy Mae attended the Indianapolis Public School System and was a graduate of Crispus Attucks High School in 1948.

Dorothy loved to sing with her 1st soprano voice and began joining voice gospel choirs after graduating high school. Dorothy was a member of her church choir (Christ Temple and Grace Church), she was a member of the Indiana State Choir, Pentecostal Mass Choir of Indianapolis, IN, and the National Choir of the Pentecostal Assemblies of the World.

Dorothy loved travelling to the PAW conventions where she would sing in the General Convention Choir and the National Young Peoples Convention Choir. She would attend both the Mid-Winter and General/Youth Convention which was usually about seven days.

Dorothy met Charles Davis, who preceded her in death, and in 1962 they were joined together in Holy Matrimony. And on June 28, 1964 to their union one child was born, Lora Lynn Davis-Mayer, who also preceded her in death in June of 2003.

Dorothy Mae was a clerical worker for Goodwill Industries of Central and Southern Indiana’s, SCSEP and CICOA Aging & In-Home Solutions and several other companies during career.

Dorothy leaves to cherish her memory her sister, Marlene Barlow; brother, Ronnie Curry (Ruthie); eight grandchildren, David, Sean, Daniel, Darrin, Levar (Abryanna), Hezekiah, Sylvia, and Rachel, and nine great-grandchildren. Sis. Ada Graham her daughter in Christ. Ada assisted and supported her like she was her mother and host of nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Celebration of Life services will be held on Saturday, January 29, 2022 at 11:00am at Grace Apostolic Church, 643 E. 22nd St. with visitation there from 10:00am-11:00am. Masks are required.

Frances M. Mason Watts

Frances M. Mason Watts was born, March 31, 1928, in Indianapolis, Indiana, the daughter of Everett Mason and Evangeline Milton Mason.

Frances received her elementary education at Hazel H. Hendricks school #37, #26 and Crispus Attucks High School. In 1944 she was united in Holy matrimony to Elmer Alonzo Watts. She was the mother of seven children and a mother to Joseph Harris that she called her son.

Frances worked at Blue Bird Pie Company and Haags Drug store and then became a Domestic Housekeeper. Frances loved her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great grandchildren as well as her Church family.

Frances was a faithful member at Pentecostal Apostolic Church under the leadership of the late Bishop Arbie Clay. She then became a charter member of House of Prayer Community Church under the leadership of Bishop Jesse L. Hyche and continued faithfully under Bishop Frederick S. and Co-Pastor Vera Hyche. She loved seeing the Praise dancers, the choir singing and the word of God going forth. France's favorite scriptures were, Psalm 23, 27, 34 and 91.

Frances favorite songs were, “Never would have made it”, “He’ll Work It Out”, “Freedom”, “I Love You Jesus”, and “We Fall Down”.

Frances M. Mason Watts departed this life on Monday, January 17, 2022, at the age of 93 years, 14 days and 2 months. She was preceded in death by her husband, Elmer Alonzo Watts; daughter, Brendalin Sanders; infant Darnitra L. Bigbee, infant Candra Watts; granddaughters, Kecia Watts, Janel Quarles; brothers, Paul, Morris, Eugene, Jesse, Howard (Pete); sister, Barbara Williams; father and mother, Everett and Evangeline Mason.

Frances leaves to cherish her memory, sons, Elmer Watts (Francine), James Edward Bobbitt (Dorothy), Elmer Quarles (Po-Poo); daughters, Sandra Kay Watts, Deborah Jean Parks (Thomas), Sheila Whitfield (Maryland); one brother, Leroy Mason (Talley); 17 grandchildren, 40 great-grandchildren and 28 great-great grandchildren and a host of others that touched her life.

Celebration of Life services will be held on Friday, January 28, 2022 at 12:00pm at Christ Temple Apostolic Church, 430 W. Fall Creek Parkway, with visitation there from 10:00-12:00pm. Masks are required. Burial will take place at New Crown Cemetery.

Doris Whitehead

Doris Whitehead was born, November 18, 1950, to IL Harrington and Edna Harrington in Shelby, Mississippi. At the age of twenty, her and Robert Whitehead were united in marriage, May of 1970, and three children were born to this union whom they loved dearly.

She moved to Indianapolis, Indiana in 1972 where she fulfilled her motherly duties. She had many jobs that she loved and was a great cook, and everybody wanted her food. Doris was a machine operator at Bowes Industry, a welder at Carlials, and afront-end worker at J&B Cleaners where she retired from due to health issues.

Doris Whitehead went to sleep in Jesus on January 11, 2022. She was preceded in death by her husband, Robert Whitehead; son, Darrell DeWayne Whitehead; sister, Loretta Gary; brothers, Robert Lee Archer, Bobbie Archer (Bobbie Joe).

She leaves to cherish her memory her son; Robert Maurice Whitehead and daughter Felicia Whitehead; brothers, IL Harrington (Denise), Percy Harrington, Wayne Harrington (Sheila); sister, Christine Gates (John), Blanchie Harrington, Deloris Ingram (Clyde), Harriet McGee. She leaves six granddaughters and eight great-grand kids, and a lot of nieces and nephews to cherish her memory.

Celebration of Life services will be held on January 21, 2022 at 12:00pm at Puritan Baptist Church with visitation there from 11:00am.
View live services at www.ellismortuary.com and on Facebook live

Dontee’ L. Anderson

Dontee’ L. Anderson, II was born on May 2, 1995 to Dontee’ L. Anderson, I and Juanita M. Hale in Indianapolis, IN

Dontee’ was employed as a warehouse worker at O’Reilly Auto store.

He is survived by his parents, Juanita M. Hale, Dontee’ L. (Charity) Anderson; son, Kyran W. Anderson; daughter, Raelynn A. Anderson; brother, Micheal J. Hale; sisters, Gabrielle K. Anderson, Michaela C. Anderson; grandparents, Jeffrey (Mary) Majors, Robert (Laura) St. Gemme, Laurie (Andy) Ohls, Michael (Janice) Hale, great great, grandparents, Edith Ortin, Mildred Jarrett.

Celebration of Life services will be held on Saturday, January 22, 2022 at 1:00pm, at Jerusalem Temple, 2125 E. 54th St. with visitation there from 11:00am until service time. Masks are required upon entry. View live services at www.ellismortuary.com and on Facebook live at Ellis Mortuary, Inc.

2021 Obituaries

Sheri Jackson

Sheri Denise Kendrick Jackson was born June 20, 1960 to Willa Bell Kendrick and John Edward Daly Jr. in Indianapolis, Indiana. Sheri was the second child out of three children and she loved Children.

Sheri was a student of the Indianapolis School Public school system and attended schools #51 and #110 as a child. In June 1978 she became a proud graduate of Broad Ripple High School. Sheri also attended Ivy Technical College and New Concepts CosmetologySchool.

Sheri attended Zion Tabernacle Apostolic Church faithfully along with her family.

Around the age of nine Sheri was baptized in the name of Jesus and received the precious gift of the Holy. She was a member of the children choir, young adult choirand the Dorcasettes Missionary auxiliary. She later became an active member of Christ Church Apostolic where she continued to be faithful singing in the Radio Choir, Women’s Choir and teaching at Christ Church Christian Academy.

One of the biggest blessings of her life was on November 29, 1991 when she gave birth to her son Chad Demetrius Bell. They were very, very close to each other. Chad took excellent care of his mother and they were inseparable, however Chad bowed his will to the WILL of God.

Sheri was love by so many people and will be greatly missed. One of the so many things she was known and loved for was always having candy to give to the young children and the adults. Sheri was definitely a GIVER to others.

Sheri departed this life on December31, 2021 at the age of 61 years. Her parents, Willa Bacon, John Edward Daly and Lewis Bacon (step father) and sister, Doris Bailey preceded her in death.

She leaves to cherish her precious memories her devoted son, Chad Demetrius Bell; Two brothers, Larry A. (Kim) Kendrick Sr., David (Joyce) Bacon; One niece, Lakesha Kendrick; One Nephew, Larry A. Kendrick Jr., One great niece, Lynix Kendrick; FourAunts; a devoted Aunt “Auntie Mary” (Nathaniel) Grandberry, Barbara Oliver, Elizabeth Bryant, Marcella Kendrick, Doniece Kendrick; Three uncles, Frank (Mieke) Kendrick; James Kendrick; Oscar (Landa) Daly; a great host of aunts, uncles, cousins including Trudy (James) Link, and Friends; three very devoted friends who are all Chad’s godmothers; Vickie Thatch, Tecora Jones and Karol Boyd.

Celebration of life services will be held on Saturday, January 8, 2022 at 12:00pm at Christ Church Apostolic, 6601 N. Grandview Drive. (Masks are required upon entry), with viewing there from 10:00-12:00pm. View live services at www.ellismortuary.com and on Facebook live @ Ellis Mortuary, Inc

Miriam Rebecca Sanders

Miriam Rebecca Sanders the daughter of DIstrict Elder Everett Z. Sanders, Sr. and First Lady Portia M. Sanders was born on July 11, 1978, in Bronx, New York. Miriam passed away on Christmas Day, December 25, 2021.

Miriam attended her fathers Church, Temple of Power and Praise COOLJC (formerly Refuge Memorial) in Indianapolis, Indiana.

She is survived by both parents, DIstrict Elder E.Z. Sanders and Lady Portia Sanders; sons, Michael Williams, Cory Mason, Jr., and Alexis Sanders; brothers, Everett Z. Sanders, Jr. (Gwendolyn), Jahlove Shakur; sister, Lady Sarai T. Wilkins (Bishop William Wilkins, Jr.; uncle, Bishop Phil Calloway (Lady Odessa Calloway), nieces, nephews, cousins and many friends.

Celebration of Life services will be held on Friday, January 7, 2022 at 12:00pm at Kingdom Apostolic Ministries, 4900 E. 38th St., with visitation there from 11:00am. Burial will take place at New Crown Cemetery. View live streaming at www.ellismortuary.com and on Facebook (Ellis Mortuary, Inc.

Douglas Bryan Beasley

Douglas Bryan Beasley was born on June 29, 1963, in Indianapolis, Indiana to Zelene Johnson-Smith and A.Z Smith. Douglas attended Indianapolis Public Schools #69, #54, Broad Ripple H.S. and Arsenal Technical Day Adult.

Doug leaves many behind to cherish and hold on to his memory; his daughter, Chrystal Hines (Kareem); his sister, Paula Moss (Robert deceased) and brother, Kevin Smith; five grandchildren, Kelli Woods, Kori Hines, Grayson Hines, Chrysette Hines and Ariyan Hines; his nephews who he loved as sons, David Coleman Jr. (Amelia), Brandon Coleman (Danielle), Thomas Coleman (Jessica), Nate Smith, Mike Coleman and Antonio Rosenthall (Kwiana); his nieces, Jessica Smith and Erika Smith; his uncle, William Powell (Mourine deceased); his cousins, Anna Powell, Marquita Powell and Lisa Hardin (Rob); great nieces and great nephews and a host of family and friends. Doug departed this earth at the age of 58 on Christmas Day.

Betty Jo Williams

Betty Jo Williams was born on March 17, 1955 in Indianapolis, IN to the late James and Hattie Williams. Betty Jo attended Indianapolis Public schools and graduated from Shortridge High school with honors. In 1977, Betty Jo graduated from Indiana University with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Occupational Therapy. For over 40 years, Betty Jo worked passionately as an Occupational Therapist in various settings: schools, hospitals, rehabilitation centers, and nursing homes. Betty Jo traveled within the United States as a therapist eagerly seeking new adventures and opportunities. Betty Jo was deeply loved by her coworkers, patients, and students. She left a lastly impact on all. She was a people person and has a quiet compassion that is unforgettable.

Betty Jo was blessed with many beautiful gifts that she loved to share. Betty Jo was an Artist, Poet, Song Writer, and Author. Betty Jo has written 5 books (“I Need to know that you See My Yellow Rose,” “Rosemary and Clown’s Extraordinary Day,” “The Trouble with Passing Notes,” and Solomon’s Shantytown” (two were published), an album “The Day of Celebration,” and several other songs (“Chasin’ Dreams.”) and poems.

Betty Jo was a survivor of Systematic Lupus Erythematosus and Legionnaires Pneumonia; from which she was miraculously healed from in 1986. Both nearly claimed her life in 1986. Betty Jo never failed to share this amazing testimony with others. Betty Jo hoped to write a book about being a victor of her healing called “Raised Up to Live.” During her time of healing and deliverance, the Lord revealed to Betty Jo that her assignment on this earth was to “Save the Children.”Betty went on to care for several nieces and nephews, became a foster parent, adopted three daughters and a nephew.

Betty Jo was truly a woman after God’s heart. Betty Jo had a sincere love for Christ and gave her life to the Lord during her preteen years. Betty Jo became a member at Zion Tabernacle Apostolic Church and later moved her membership to Grace Apostolic Church. Betty Jo served the Lord in many capacities such as: Choir member, Usher, Bible Bowl Coach, and assisted with planning and hosting The Young Ladies of Grace Retreats.

Betty Jo was full of energy, vibrant, and quirky. Betty Jo loved spending time with her family and friends. Betty Jo was the ultimate gamer and loved challenging anyone to a game of Scramble, Skipbo, Sequence, and more. Betty Jo was a champion at Ms. Pacman and could spend an entire afternoon trying to beat her own score. Betty was collector of rare, specialty items like dolls, coca cola paraphernalia, vintage pieces, and movies.

Betty Jo will be remembered for her sweet, compassionate, and caring nature. Betty Jo had the desire to take her of everyone and to bring joy into the lives of the people she loved. Betty Jo was a great and loving mother, grandmother, aunt, sister, and friend. Betty Jo was truly an angel the God lent to us on this earth. Betty Jo had a special relationship with everyone, and everyone loved “Betty Jo.”

Betty Jo leaves to cherish her memory: niece/daughter- Amber Hightower (William Hightower), daughters- Dana Williams, Etolia Williams, and Rosemary Williams, great nephew/son- Sean Parker; grandchildren- Malia E. Sokoand Wesley L. Sabas; four sisters, Bernice Gude, Thelma Brown, Joyce Ann Murphy, and Cynthia Williams-Hill; four brother, J. Richard Williams, Joseph Williams, George Henry Williams, and Dennis Williams, aunt- Mary Reid; a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, sister friends, church family, and friends.

Celebration of Life services will be held on a Monday, January 3, 2021 at 12:00pm at Grace Apostolic Church, with visitation there from 10:00-12:00pm. Burial will take place at Crown Hill Cemetery.

Ruth Mae Jones Weaver-Terry July 15, 1947

Ruth Mae Jones Weaver was born in Neelyville, Missouri to Eddie and Thelma Jones. Ruthie attended Hess High school where she later furthered her education at Malcolm X College.

She worked at Motorola and retired from metal IMPACT in 2010. Ruth moved to Indianapolis to be closer to her kids and grandchildren, She attended Overcoming Church and cooked Sunday dinner every Sunday for her kids and grandchildren.

Ruth was preceded in death by both parents, Eddie and Thelma Jones; four brothers, Raythel, Ralph, Robert and Eddie Jones Jr; one sister, Phyllis Jordan and her loving husband, Donald Terry.

She leaves to cherish in her memories four sons, Ernest (Yvette)Weaver William Weaver, Amon (Beverly)Johnson and Denzel her dog;

three daughters, Rosa (Mardy )Ringo, Lee (Maurice )Ringo, Carlene Weaver; daughter/granddaughter three sisters Wille Mae Connor, Zettie Link, Nancy Guiden/best friend; special sisters-in– love, Shelda Seger, Dorothy (David )McKinley and Jeanette Miller; goddaughters, Kyler Baker, Johnetha White; eight grandsons, nine granddaughters, and great granddaughters and a host of nieces and nephews family and friends.

Celebration of Life services will be held on Wednesday, December 29, 2021 at 12:00pm at Overcoming Church, 2203 Columbia Ave, with visitation there from 10:00-12:00pm.

Anna G. Dozier Hall

ANNA, the second child of George and Ruby Kennedy Dozier was born on October 13, 1939, in Rome Georgia. When she was three years old, her family moved to Indianapolis, IN.

She attended IPS School #63 and was a graduate of Shortridge High School. She also attended Ivy Tech College and Aenon Bible College. She loved to enhance her knowledge and has taken numerous courses.

Anna referred to the year of 1977 as her ‘traumatic year’ ─ her father died, first grandchild was born, oldest daughter graduated from high school, brought her first home, married James Robert, last but not least, she received the precious gift of the Holy Ghost on the last day of that year. She became a new creature in Jesus Christ.

She worked for the federal government for 34 years. She worked for the Department of Defense, Army Finance Center most of her career and retired from there. She also worked for the Department of Interior, Office of Surface Mining for approximately three years. After being able to retire early, she was employed at Christ Temple Apostolic Faith Assembly for several years, and later at New Wineskin Ministries.

Anna was ordained as a minister in the year 2007. She was honored to serve on the Council of Elders at New Wineskin Ministries for several years, resigning in 2014. She loved the saints and friends and was very active in the church, serving in various committees.

Anna loved her family. She was the mother of three daughters whom she loved very much and had a wonderful relationship with them, Elaine, Kare, and Sandra. She was the grandmother of six, TuWuana, Latrese, James, Dominique (who preceded her in death), Erika and Kaprya (Dakota). She had several great-grandchildren.

Anna went home to be with the Lord on Saturday, December 18, 2021, at the age of 82.

Anna was preceded in death by her parents, George and Ruby Dozier; three sisters, Juanita B. Barrow, Sylvia E. Howard and Jessie J. Jones.

She is survived by her husband, James Robert; daughters, Elaine Ball, Karen Ann Williams, Sandra (Gerald) Washington; Brothers, George (Gabriele) Dozier, Christopher L. Dozier and Daniel (Peggy) Dozier; Sister, Emma A. (Gerald DeWayne) Keys, and a host of grandchildren, nieces, nephews and cousins, and friends.

Celebration of Life services will be held on Wednesday, December 22, 2021 at 12:00pm at Christ Temple Apostolic Church, with visitation there from 10:00-12:00pm. Masks are required. Burial will take place at Crown Hill Cemetery

Qwantoe Tyjuane Sterling (Blunt)

Qwantoe Tyjuane Sterling (Blunt) was born August 28, 1977 in Indianapolis, Indiana to the proud parents the late Anthony (Tony) Sterling and Tonya McKay Sterling Day (this is the way that he liked to say his mother’s name).

Qwan, was educated through IPS and later went on to work at Family Man Trucking & Celadon Group Trucking.

Qwan, was the oldest of Tonya‘s three boys; preceding him in death was his little brother, Anthony (Lil Tony) Laure Sterling, Jr. and Surviving to Cherish his Memory, Lil brother, Devon L. Sterling, his children Asia Sterling and Qwantoe Sterling, Jr. (Mother-Ericka Perry) Baby Jacari Kinchen (Grandson)

Step-Brothers; Randy Sterling, Anthony “Pig” Sterling, Hollie Dawn; step-sister, Toni Sterling Qwan, was also preceded in death by his Grandparents; Norma Elaine Shane and Jessie Sterling. Surviving Grandparents; Charles and Elaine McKay and Albert Pitt Uncles and Aunt who proceeded Qwan in death, Randy McKay, Shawn McKay, Jean Sterling and Aaron Sterling.

Surviving Uncles and Aunts; Chuck McKay (Angie), Norman “Winkle” McKay, Shannon “Pookie” Harris, Michelle “Shelley”McKay, NeNe McKay, Willie “Tubby” Sterling, Ruby Nell Johnson, Tara Renee Sterling, Kendra Mitchell Sisters and Brothers by Choice; Ashley Parrish “A.P.”, Devon Parrish and Boozie Long time best friend and “Boss” Trinett

Qwan had 2 BONUS Moms whom he loved dearly, and they loved him…Lorna Sterling and Linda Perry

The Chain-Gang: A.P., CeCe (Big Sexy), Dakota (Lil Homie), Daphne and LaCora (Poo) those were his Girls For Real

Qwan, also leaves to cherish his memory his beloved Niece, Duchess Sterling aka “Uncle’s Baby” and Nephew, Devon Sterling, Jr… Qwan, taught them to love each other and always stick together no matter what!

Qwan, was a fun-loving, caring Jokester, who did not hesitate to tell you how he felt. He is Loved by many and will be Missed by a Community…Brightwood Stand Up!!!!

Celebration of Life services will be held on Saturday, December 18, 2021 at 12:00pm at Christ Church Apostolic with visitation there from 10:0-12:00pm. Mask are required. Burial will take place at Crown Hill Cemetery.

James Edward Freeman

James Edward Freeman, II was born on August 18, 1957 to Mary Margaret and James Edward Freeman, Sr. in Indianapolis IN. James was always a joyful child with many pranks to be played.

The women in his family always outnumbered the men and young James was no different than any of the other men in his family, seeing himself as the protector. He would stand tall against anyone who would dare to disrespect any of the women in his family.

He enjoyed playing baseball and basketball as a child. James graduated from Crispus Atticks H.S. and shortly thereafter joined the Army. After his Army experience, he met and married the love of his life, Deborah Dormeil. From this union was born their daughter Anna Marie Davidson and son, Ryan Freeman. Years later, James would be blessed with another son, Jamaal Edward Freeman.

James longed for adventure and moved to Dallas, Tx. After living in Dallas for many years, he made his final move to Tampa, Florida enjoying the tropical weather.

He was preceded in death by his father, James Edward Freeman, Sr. and daughter Anna Marie Davidson. James leaves to cherish his memory, his mother Mary Margaret Freeman, his sons, Ryan and Jamaal, aunts Claudine Jones and Elease Womack and a host of cousins and friends.

Celebration of Life service will be held on Friday, December 17, 2021 at 12:00pm at Christ Church Apostolic, with visitation there from 11:00-12:00pm

Debra Satterfield

Debra "Debbie" Satterfield, 62, of Indianapolis, IN, was born on January 4, 1959. She was the fourth child born to Carl A. Satterfield and Marva J. Satterfield.

Debbie grew up in Haughville, where she enjoyed playing with her siblings and friends. She attended School #52 for first through eighth grade. In 1977, she graduated from George Washington High School. In 1980, Debbie birthed her first daughter, LaToiya. In 1981, she birthed her last child Chante.

She loved her daughters. They were her pride and joy. She enjoyed dressing them up and watching them grow. On October 19,2021, Debbie was baptized in Jesus' name at Turning Point Worship Center. She was excited to get her sins washed away.

To know her was to love her. Debra was full of life. She loved to laugh and to love others. She was selfless and a giver. Her passion was fashion. She was always the fanciest woman in the room! She was beautiful in and out and will be missed by all who loved her.

Debra Jean Satterfield went to sleep in Jesus on December 8, 2021 at the tender age of 62 years. She was preceded in death by her parents, Carl A. Satterfield and Marva J. Satterfield-Harris; brother, Reggie Rowe.

She was preceded in death by both of her parents. She leaves to cherish her memory: the love of her life, Ernest Gause; her children, LaToiya (Terry) Jackson, Chante White; her siblings, Carl (Edith) Satterfield, Karen Thompson, Sharon Satterfield, Lana Wallace, Marva (Tony) Mucker, Toi Harris; and a host of nephews, nieces, family, and friends.

Jessica Brandon

Elder Jessica L. Brandon was born August 10, 1962 in Chicago, Illinois to the proud parents of Otis Thomas Louis and Reanier Jones Louis-Sparkman.

She attended Daniel E. Weir school #71 and graduated from John Marshall High School. Jessica attended several institutions of higher learning over the years. She was committed to being a lifelong learner.

Jessica has worked for the United States Postal Service for the past 29 years. She has held many positions and loved the work she did there. She was affectionately known as “Jessie Mae” by many of her co-workers/friends.

She gave her life to the Lord at Cathedral of Praise and was filled with the Holy Spirit. Overcoming Church has been her church home for the past 29 years. Her hunger for God and the word caused her in the early days to get there before the doors even opened. Her faith was infectious in the lives of her children and family and as she continued to grow anyone that got the opportunity to talk to her would know that she loved God. She worked in many ministries at OCC and became a Licensed Minister and an Elder in that church. She let God use her as a preacher, singer, teacher, and leader of Foundations of Truth classes. She also worked in the Grief and Loss ministry. One of her famous sayings in the pulpit, at home and in casual conversation was “I’m a put the stuff out there.” God used her natural humor and wit to get his message across too many.

Elder Jessica L. Brandon departed this earthly life and entered into the presence of the Lord on November 23, 2021 at the tender age of 59 years. She was preceded by her parents, Otis Louis and Reanier Louis Sparkman; brother, Thomas Louis.

She was married for a short time to Anthony Brandon. Those that knew the woman she became, know that God is her husband!!! Jessica let God show her how to raise her children and she did her best to point them in the way they should go. They are her arrows.

She leaves to cherish her loving memory; 3 beautiful children, Stacia Cousin, Jenice Brandon and Jesse Brandon; two sisters, Jacqueline Stacy Jones-Louis and Evelyn Renee Clark (Gerald Sr); grandchildren, Alayia Edwards, Aniyah Johnson, Chi Brandon, Elijah Henderson, Eryana Randolph, Noah Brandon, Serenity Brandon, Marlie Brandon, Amoura Riddle, Marquese Spivey. A host of nieces and nephews, great nieces and nephews and their children, cousins and friends.

Celebration of Life services will be held on Saturday, December 4, 2021 at 12:00pm at Overcoming Church, 2203 Columbia Ave, with visitation there from 10:00-12:00pm. Masks are required. View live services at www.ellismortuary.com and on Facebook

George Pace

George Jay Pace was born October 8, 1951 in Sebastopol, Mississippi to the proud parents of Dock and Rosie Lee Pace. He was the second oldest of ten children born into this union.

He attended East Scott High School in Lake Mississippi. He was a country boy that loved to fish, hunt, and garden. He worked at Green Acres poultry plant until he moved to Indianapolis.

George (Jay) moved to Indianapolis where he met the former Miss Patrica Officer. They were united in holy matrimony on July 10, 1976 at Zion Tabernacle by the late Bishop Joseph Farris and the late Bishop James E. Tyson. They enjoyed 45 years of marital bliss and their union was blessed with four children.

Jay was baptized in the name of Jesus Christ and received the Holy Ghost at Christ Temple. He later joined Christ Church Apostolic. He served as usher, a position loved dearly. He proudly attended Wednesday morning prayers, worked in the food pantry, drove the church bus, was on the Benevolent Committee,Brotherhood Committee and was a faithful Sunday School student. Jay also was a prayer warrior that served on the prayer band visiting the sick and shut in.

Jay was employed with the IPS School system as a custodian for 20 years. Upon his retirement he spent most of his time traveling the world with his family. One of his most famous trips was when he traveled to California and made an appearance on “The Price is Right ''. As a contestant Jay made it all the way to The ShowCase ShowDown where he was able to spin the “Big Wheel” and land on $1.00. Jay loved being outdoors. He and his family would go on annual camping trips to Indiana Beach. He and his wife would go on many cruises, he loved bowling, and most importantly he loved the Lord.

Jay loved his family and instilled in them a reverence for God, often anointing their heads with oil, and praying over them. When sickness struck his body, his faith in God never wavered. He often compared his fight with his health with that of Job. Just like Job, Jay showed us how to keep the faith, no matter how grim the circumstances of life may be.

Brother George Jay Pace departed this life and entered into the presence of the Lord on November 8, 2021, while a patient at Methodist Hospital at the age of 71 years. He was preceded in death by his father, mother, and sister Madline Pace.

He leaves to cherish his loving memory: a faithful and devoted wife, Patrica A. Pace, Two sons Shannon Jay Pace, and Sheldon Anthony Pace. Step-son Terrel Wash. Two daughters Shantel Reina Dalton (Micheal), and Shorron Scott. Five sisters Rosie Helen Patrick, Thelma Griffin, Betty Wilson, Patrica Bloodsaw, and Debra Pace. Three brothers, Billy Mack Pace (China), James Pace, Willie Pace. Seven grandkids Desire Anderson, Shalenn Douglas, Joseph Williams, Aadrien Pace, Stephan Douglas, Olivia Scott, Anthony Pace and a host of other relatives and many friends.

Celebration of Life services will be held on Friday, November 19, 2021 at 12:00pm at Christ Church Apostolic, 6601 N. Grandview Drive, with visitation there from 10:00am - 12:00pm. Entombment will take place at Crown Hill Cemetery

Lawrence T. Brookins

Lawrence T. Brookins, Trustee Emeritus, was one of three children born to Alice and Theodore Brookins on May 28, 1925, in Indianapolis, IN. After graduating from Indianapolis Public Schools, he enlisted in the United States Navy in 1943. Lawrence was stationed on the USS San Diego and USS Bon Homme Richard (CV31) Air Craft Carrier and received an Honorable Discharge in 1945. Like many Black service members, Lawrence found it challenging to find employment and had to work temporary jobs until Union Carbide Corporation employed him. In 1972 Lawrence was promoted to a leadership position, serving as the first Black Foreman paving the way for other Blacks and minorities to assume leadership roles. After 33 years, he retired from Union Carbide in 1983.

Lawrence married the love of his life, Mary Bridgeforth, in October of 1944 while on a 3-day leave. To this union, three beautiful children Larry, Sharon, and Janice were born. He was a humble, loving, and compassionate husband, always putting his family first. For seventy-seven years, Mom and Pop Brookins shared an everlasting bond and mutual respect living by the words “Love is Not Love Until You Give it Away.”

Lawrence Brookins, Trustee Emeritus, was baptized in Jesus’ name and received the Holy Ghost on March 15, 1964. He faithfully praised and gloried God at Zion Tabernacle Apostolic Faith Church under the late Elder G.C. Mills; succeeded by the late Suffragan Bishop Joseph D. Farris, Sr.; and presently under Suffragan Bishop Thomas E. Griffith for over 57 years. He served as a Chairman and board member of Zion Tabernacle Apostolic Faith Church Trustee Board for more than 30 years, member of the Usher Board for 15 years, Treasurer of the Sunday School Department for more than ten years, and various other ministries.

Monday, October 25, 2021, at the age of 96, Lawrence T. Brookins, Trustee Emeritus, departed this life. He was preceded in death by his parents, Alice Brookins-Maddox and Theodore Brookins; his siblings, Virgil Brookins and William Maddox; his daughter Sharon K. Brookins- Davis.

Lawrence Brookins, Trustee Emeritus, leaves to cherish his memory a devoted wife Mary H. Brookins; son, Larry (Betty) Brookins; daughter Janice (Edwin) Brookins-Newton; five grandchildren Monique (Richard) Hutson, William Bates, Phillip Bates, Natalie Newton, and Christopher Newton; several great- and great-great-grandchildren; brother-in-laws John T. (Betty) Bridgeforth, Isaiah (Shelia) Bridgeforth, and Hezekiah Bridgeforth; sister-in-laws Anna Jacks, Regina Davidson, Joyce (Randall) Glenn; numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and their families; his honorary sons and daughters; the Zion Tabernacle Apostolic Faith Church family, and a host of friends.

I will bless the Lord at all times; His praise shall continually be in my mouth. Psalms 34:1

Lawrence Brookins, Trustee Emeritus, now rests in the presence of the Lord, having received that blessed hope of eternal life.

Celebration of Life services will be held on November 5, 2021 at 12:00pm at Zion Tabernacle Apostolic Church, 4007 N. Sherman Drive, with visitation there from 10:00-12:00pm. Entombment: Crown Hill Cemetery

Austin M Mullendore

Born Austin M Mullendore to parents, Frankie Mullendore II, and Theresa Parsons on September 7th 1995. Frankie passed away as Austin was a young man, Tim Brown, Austin’s step-father came into his life thereafter. Austin was born and raised on the southside of Indianapolis, Indiana and attended Perry Meridian High school. Austin was to earn his GED, and immediately enlisted with the U.S. Navy.

Austin is survived by his beautiful wife who he adored, Devi “Jawone” Spencer-Mullendore, mother, Theresa Parson; grandmother, Roxanne Leary his aunt, “aunt Susie” Susan Leary; mother-in-law, Devi and Tyrone Davis; father-in-law, Dawone Spencer; grandmother-in-law, Patricia J. Ellis-Clark; sister-in-law, Devione Spencer; brother-in-law, Duane Curry, Jr.; his godson, Luca Leary, uncle Brian Parson and all of the Parson, Giffin, and Leary family. Many friends and extended family were touched by Austin’s love and light. Austin is preceded in death by: his father “Frankie” Frank Mullendore II, step father, Tim Brown, and his beloved four-legged best friend, Tyson.

A Celebration of Austin’s life will held on Thursday, November 4, 2021 at Jerusalem Temple Church, 2125 E. 54th St. with visitation only from 5:00pm-7:00pm.

Sgt Eric J. Williams

Sgt Eric J. Williams the son of Carl A. Williams and Barbara N. Brown Williams was born on January 23, 1975, in Indianapolis, Indiana. Sgt. Eric Williams was a 20-year veteran with IMPD and was assigned as supervisor to the North District middle shift, passed away on October 24, 2021.

He is survived by his loving parents, Carl A. and Barbara Williams, brothers, Carl A. Williams, Jr., and Jeffery Williams and a host of other family and friends.

Celebration of Life services will be held on Monday, November 1, 2021 at 12:00pm at New Wineskin Ministries, 4501 W. 38^th St. with visitation there from 10:00am-12:00pm. Burial will take place in the Fire and Police section in Crown Hill Cemetery following the service.

William Earl Hill, Jr.

William Earl Hill, Jr. was born on November 15, 2002 to William Hill, Sr. and Naomi Brewton. William was a 2021 graduate with honors at Pike High School in Indianapolis. He received recognition for his HVAC skills.

William was an avid video gamer and enjoyed football. He was such a loving and caring young man who always made sure everyone was happy. All the corny stunts and jokes he did always made him the life of the party. When taking pictures he always had such a handsome smile and the tons of photos that everyone has will be cherished forever. His father’s fettuccine was hands down his favorite food.

William departed his young earthly life on Tuesday, October 12th, 2021. He was preceded in death by his grandparents Reggie Brewton, Sr. and Virginia Merchant, and his brother Christopher “CJ” Mitchell, Jr.

Wlliam is survived by his parents William Hill, Sr. and Naomi N. Brewton; sister Janiyah Mitchell, grandparents William and Lynda Hill; grandparents James and Carol Miles; uncles Reggie Brewton (Virgilia), Daris Brewton (Amelia), and Adrian Motley; aunts Jessica Hill, Wilonda Hill, Maile Villarreal, and Snanika Miles; bonus siblings Christopher “Tre” Mitchell and Savayah Mitchell; his God sister Arianna Motley; and his childhood best friend George Williams.

Crystal Franklin

On February 20^th, 1982, the Lord God Almighty sent Kevin D. and Joanna M. Franklin - a tiny little Angel wrapped in a 6 lb. 9oz. 19” long …loud…package with the teeniest feet and hands ever. Looking at her cute little round face absolutely demanded that this precious package be named “Crystal” Rene’ Franklin. She was born articulating what she wanted…and became well known for one who could express herself.

Her four big brothers were mesmerized by this tiny curious human with beautiful big bright eyes - who was continually wrapped in PINK… and they refused to let her sit still long without them - so – at 9 months she shocked the family. She crawled…. up the stairs… and WALKED back down… with a half of a peanut butter and jelly sandwich in her hand. To this day it has not been determined … whose sandwich she claimed! She was FEARLESS.

Crystal Rene’ Franklin received Christ at a very young age and sang beautifully and faithfully - in all of the church choirs. One of her favorite songs was “Let Go and Let God.” She loved singing with her sisters – while her younger brother played the drums, and her parents played guitars.

Crystal was a sister who took pride in showing her younger sisters “how to be beautiful.” This tenacious Lady was always the daughter who stayed by her Mother’s side and asked, “What do you need me to do Mama?” You could find her instructing the younger children – as well as scrutinizing anyone who wanted to “date” ANY of them.

Crystal excelled in school – often staying on Honor Roll. She started on a path to be an anesthesiologist … and although she changed her profession… she was most often found in managerial positions. She focused on “caring for others.” That type personality is one reason her siblings - lovingly - called her small framed but BIG personality …”Big Mama”

The insight and abilities Crystal exhibited were always far beyond the normal woman. She was a true “Warrior Woman” who never gave up - making sure to do the best in her power - for her beautiful, beloved children. Her sacrifices to ensure they were safe and cared for - will always be remembered - and their stories will be told over and over and over to her children, grandchildren, nieces and nephews by her parents and siblings.

This beautiful Woman is the loving Mother of 6 children – Skyler Shanae’, Taylor, Rashaad Lamont, Terrell DeWayne, Mya Angelica, and Nola Blue.

She is preceded into glory by her baby sister, Cheri Shana’ Franklin and Kevin DeWayne Franklin II. To lovingly and accurately continue her memory - and be a “village” to her children – she is blessed with 9 more protective brothers; Jerry Michael, Joseph Carl, Silas Ray, Abel Lewis, Travis Daye, Christian Isaiah, Solomon Isaac, Noah Abraham and Malachi Elijah… and 4 more sisters; Carianne Elaine, Courtney Joy, Kavina Angelica and Carmen Lorraine…as well as a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, aunts and uncles.

Dai’Lon Marquell Downing

Dai’Lon Marquell Downing was born September 25, 1993 in Indianapolis, Indiana to DeShon LaDale Downing and LaToi Ann Downing. Dai’Lon attender Lawrence North High School. Dai’Lon worked at Plaines Moving Company as an installer and mover.

Dai’Lon departed this earthly life at the young age of 28 years old. He was preceded in death by his father, DeShon L. Downing.

Celebration of Life services was held on

Wednesday, October 20, 2021 at 12:00pm at Friendship Missionary Baptist Church, 1301 N. Goodlet Ave. Burial took place at Washington Park North Cemetery. He is survived by his loving mother, LaToi A. Downing; son, Zerion M. Downing; brother, Caleb J. Woodard; sisters, DaiYona R. Downing, Sh’Dala S. Downing, DeShae E. Jones, DaNeisha P. Miller-Downing and a host of other relatives and friends.

Solomon Stewart Keets, Jr.

Solomon Stewart Keets, Jr. the first born of Candance Ann Baker and Solomon Stewart Keets, Sr. was born on December 31, 1979 in Indianapolis, Indiana.

“Man” as he was well known by everyone was educated in the Indianapolis Public School system.

“Man” was currently employed at Adidas Warehouse and he also worked Construction and demolition.

To describe “Man” he was soft spoken, loving, gentle, polite and very disrespectful. “Man” loved animals, loved writing, loved to draw, loved music, and held a special place in his heart for his daughter, granddaughters, niece and nephew.

Solomon departed this earthly life on September 24, 2021 at the age of 41 years, 3 months, and 7 days. He was preceded in death by his mother, Candance Ann Baker, grandmother, Ruby Lee Keets, grandfathers, James Northington and Sidney Keets; aunts, Sonja Baker-Tolbert, Shirley Keets; uncles, Stanley Keets, Steve Keets and cousin, Cameron Baker.

Solomon Stewart Keets, Jr. leaves to cherish his memory; father, Solomon N. Keets, Sr. (Eleittlia); daughter, Dai’Briana Ross; granddaughters, Nilan Magee and Navi Ross; brothers, Andrese Anderson (April), Jeremy Keets, Eshilen Keets; sister, Ayanna Porter; step-sister, Eleittlia Addison-Phelps; niece, Kandi Anderson; nephews, Andrise Anderson, Jr., Jametrius and Christian Moore; grandmother, Lois Northington; uncle, Stanley Baker (Roxanne), Sidney Keets, Samuel Keets; aunts, Annette Holder, Starlene Wilson (Darwin), Cindy Chatman, Patricia Keets, Annie Hope, Sylvia Campbell and a host of other loving family and friends.

June Ellis

June Arnita (Brooks) Ellis was born on July 23, 1972, to Margaret Ann Hines-Brooks (Ellis) and James Ellis, Jr. Her first name was named after her paternal Aunt (Aunt June and her Paternal Grandmother, Arnita Golden Ellis). She was the 5th child of six children, that were born to her Mother and was often referred to as the ‘nee baby. This was the terminology that her Mother taught her to explain her birth order in the family. June was educated and matriculated through the Gary, IN School Corporation and was a West Side High School Graduate, Class of 1991. June attended the Gary School Career Center Cosmetology program and graduated after completed all hours of study. June attended Indiana University, IUPUI, immediately upon graduation from High School. June worked at Wishard Memorial Hospital, while attending IUPUI and attended various churches throughout the City of Indianapolis, while away at University.

June accepted Christ at an early age and was baptized in Jesus’ name and received the gift of the Holy ghost according to Acts 2:38. June practiced her faith and belief in God wherever she found herself within the Country or abroad. As a young person, June loved to attend church, sing in the choir and every year,attended the TM Camp, where she met other young believers. She maintained friendships and relationships with all of those young people wherever life took her. She was diligent in whatever she was working on and encouraged others to do the same and be faithful unto death. Her walk with Christ was evident and she proclaimed the goodness of The Lord, no matter what challenges or adversities that she experienced in this life. She experienced breast cancer in 2017 and not only became a survivor but more than a Conqueror.

June had a compassionate heart and often shared it with anyone that she came into contact with. She first met a young man at Tolleston Middle School, that she later married, Marc Taylor of the United States, Air Force. Marc accepted June’s young daughter as his own and they had one son together that matriculated through adulthood. While married, June spent time abroad in Japan, where she would interact with other military wives and natives of that Country. She noticed that she often found herself teaching the English language to those that had a desire to learn. During her time abroad, she would request musical songs and ministerial tapes to keep herself encouraged in The Lord. One of her favorite songs was, “Gain The World, but give me Jesus….” She was bound and determined to make heaven her home and recognized that she was just passing through this life to spend eternity in another.

June was a part of several Ministries and worked in various capacities in each one and most of all found herself doing what her hands found her to do. She regularly attended various church services throughout the City of Indianapolis; she was a member of Christ Church Apostolic, Indianapolis, IN, under the leadership of Bishop James E. Tyson. June later transitioned her membership to New Day Pentecostal Church with the blessings of Bishop Tyson. June found another family at New Day P.C.and was very active in the Ministry. She has served in the Choir, Praise Team, Hospitality Committee, Program Chairperson and Sunday School Department. June loved to travel with her church family to the National Conventions and other fellowship services.

June continued her formal education and graduated from Ivy Tech Community College, Indianapolis, IN with her Associates Degree in Early Childhood Education. She was employed at various locations with Daycare Centers and school systems. She had a genuine love for children and made sure that each child that she interacted with felt loved and special. June had a long career in the transportation industry with the Durham School Bus Services and Indianapolis Public Schools, for more than 10 years. She met co-workers and made friends at every location where she was employed. In addition to being a full-time employee, June was a full-time student, studying Biblical Studies and was one semester from completing her Bachelors’ Degree. June then transitioned from labor to reward, for she knew that this was the reward….everlasting life and a legacy of love that will live on through her family and friends.

June Ellis leaves to mourn and cherish her life and memories her two children: Desiree Ellis-Hoard, Marcus J. Taylor, her two granddaughters, Kennedy and Camarrah, her three Sisters: Cathaleen King, Murfreesboro, TN, Armagene Ellis, Durham, NC, Patrecia Woods, Gary. IN, her Brother: Charles (Robin)Brooks, Indianapolis, IN, paternal Great Aunt, Cena Ellis-Washington, Detroit, MI; Maternal Uncle: Charles D. (Senorra) Hines, Sr, Gary, IN; Maternal Aunt: Armagene Hines, Gary, IN,a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. June has close personal friends that she has had since childhood that she travelled with extensively, who are: Diane Timberlake, Mrs. Bridgett Jackson, Chandra Ford, and Cha’Ta Smith. June also has a Godson Chad Bell and a special nephew, Terrence Christian Garmon. June has a close Cousin Kermit (Ayanna) McLeod, Los Angeles California, Sunday School Teacher and Church Mother, Thelma Bullock, and a host of relatives in Garyand Indianapolis, IN, Chicago, IL, Detroit, MI and San Antonio, TX.

She was proceeded in death by her granddaughter: Kaylee Rose, maternal Grandmother, Catherine Hairston-Hines, her Mother, Margaret Hines-Brooks, Brother, Edward D. Brooks, Sr.,maternal Uncle: Jasper Hines, Jr, nephew Tyrell Isaiah Brooks, paternal Grandmother Arnita Golden-Ellis, and Godfather Gregory McCullum.

Richard Thurman

Richard Norman Thurman was born on May 27th, 1935, to the late Johnnie House Thurman and Phillip Jerome Thurman, in Indianapolis, Indiana. He was the second child of three children, who preceded him in death, one sister, Barbara Jean Dullen and one brother, Donald Lee Thurman.

He professed his life to Christ at St John's Missionary Baptist Church in Indianapolis, Indiana.

Richard received his education from Indianapolis Public Schools and graduated from Arsenal Technical High school in 1953. Richard joined the United States Air Force in 1954, where he married Mildred Gibson. From this union, one child was born his beloved daughter, Sharon Elaine Thurman.

After leaving the Air Force, Richard furthered his education at Indiana Business College, then transferring to IUPUI, receiving a degree in Business Administration and Business Management. Richard was employed and retired from The United States Post Office after 32 years of service. After retirement from the USPS, he worked for FedEx for five years.

In High school he was on the debate team and played basketball. Richard had a strong love for track and field, softball, and jogging every day at White River, reading, and soul music. His love for sports led him to attend the 1996 Olympics in Atlanta, Ga in which he was very proud of.

Richard N. Thurman was known for the love he had for his family; he was THE PATRIACH. His loving heart and soul shined through each family member, and he made sure to always take care and provide for his family. His beautiful smile and great sense of humor was something to witness. Richard's personality was full of wit and great wisdom.

He was preceded in death by his parents and siblings, his close son-in-law, Donald Holder, two nephews Rian Y. Thurman and John A. Thurman, and one great nephew, Phillip D. Dullen.

Richard Norman Thurman departed this life on September 26, 2021, at the age of eighty-six years, four months, and one day.

Richard leaves to cherish in his memory, his loving daughter and pride of his life, Sharon Elaine Holder: his wife, Gwen Vance; his grandson, Donald N. Holder (Jazmin); granddaughter, Ashley D. Holder (Ryan); sister, Mary Hooten; 4 great granddaughters, one great grandson, the Dullen family, the Gibson family and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, relatives, and church family members.

For all who loved him, he will be sadly missed.

Humbly and Gratefully Submitted, The Family

Frances Binom Williams

Frances Binom Williams was born on November 13, 1934 in Scottsville, Kentucky. She was the daughter of Timothy S. and Zulema Binom.

She moved to Indianapolis in 1936 and received her education from the Indianapolis Public school system #40, 17 and Crispus Attucks High School.

Frances was married to her loving husband, Chester on February 8, 1951, and to this marriage were born 14 children.

Sister Frances was baptized in Jesus name and received the Holy Ghost in 1961 at Christ Temple Apostolic Church under the leadership of the late Bishop Willie Lee and continued her membership under the late Bishop James E. Tyson, the late Bishop Benjamin T. Moore, Bishop Byron Johnson, and Bishop Charles M. Finnell. She loved being in her Sunday School class taught by Sis. Goldie Mabry, working on the Nurses guild, visiting the sick and shut in and working the steam table in the kitchen.

Sister Frances also affectionately known as “Mom Williams to some as well as a few other affectionate names. She was a quiet person and loved her family and other children also. Her home always seemed to be filled with children. She would get 21 loaves of bread a week to make peanut butter and jelly sandwiches. She said I have so many children you think I had a restaurant.

She was employed with Dr. John A. Thompkins dentist office for ten years.

There was a sign language class offered at the Church and she joined the class which she thought to be several weeks then it would be finished, but that isn’t the way it happened. Sister Williams described it as her having an unexplained motivation to continue to learn more. This involvement caused her to become open to people but working with the deaf and the hard of hearing didn’t completely rid her of her shyness. Sister Frances enjoyed teaching sign language and signing songs.

Sister Frances Williams went to sleep in Jesus on September 14, 2021 at the tender age of 86 years of age. She was preceded in death by her husband, Chester Williams, her parents, Timothy and Zulema Binom; son, Ronald M. Williams.

She leaves to cherish her precious memories; eight daughters, Laura A. Johnson (Charles), Laurelle A. Williams, Zulema A. Williams, Dorothy E. Williams, Bernice A. Smith (Darryl), Florence A. Williams, Denise M. Gleghorn (Alan), Frances E. Keys (Steven); five sons, John F. Williams, Terry A. Williams (Denise), Leroy Williams (Stacy), Lester Williams (Elsie), Peter Williams (Tracey); several grandchildren, great grandchildren, and great great grandchildren; a host of other relatives and friends.

Tony Pippin

Tony Pippin, a very unique man, was born on Tuesday October 2nd, 1951 to Louis E. and Ruby Marie (Gray) Pippin of Marion, Kentucky, in Indianapolis, Indiana. He was the youngest son of nine children, six brothers and three sisters: Ollie, Rudolph, Thomas Marshall, Ora Lee, Doris, Jimmy, Johnny and Marilyn. He was preceded in death by his parents, all his brothers and two of his sisters Ora Lee and Doris. Nephews Thommy and Steve Corbin, Niece Jackie Morgan and grandson Cameron Pippin.

Tony was educated in the Indianapolis Public School system and graduated from George Washington High School. He went on to join the US Navy from 1972-1976, serving as a Petty Officer 3rd Class. After being honorably discharged he served an additional six years in the US Army Reserves. He earned a Certificate in Welding from Ivy Tech Community College in the mid 1980’s.

Tony held various jobs throughout his life. He was very conscientious and considered a great employee. He worked for Indiana University while attending Ivy Tech in the Transportation Department and then went to work for OmniSource Recycling Plant once he obtained his welding certificate until he retired. He passed away after a brief illness on September 1, 2021.

Whether he was Pop's, Uncle Tony, Pippin, Brother in Law, did not matter how you knew him, you knew he loved his Pippin Family. Tony believed in looking after his nieces and nephews who were in need of help. He was a great listener, an awesome cook to feed their hungry stomachs and then thrill them with stories because he always had a story to share.

And if you were up to a good debate Tony was your Man. He loved to watch Star Trek Deep Space Nine, old movies and would throw you off recalling some odd line from an intriguing sounding movie. He possessed a vast knowledge of history.

Prior to entering the US Navy he had a son, Antonio L. Pippin in 1971. He was a father figure to, Dayon R. Jones and always included him in family events.

While working at Indiana University Hospital in late 1977 he met Kyle A. Crockett and got Saved at Mt. Zion Apostolic Church. In January 1978 they were married, and blessed with Timothy U. Pippin and Kandyce M. Pippin. Though their marriage was brief their love and friendship remained. She was by his side when he passed.

Tony is survived by his sister Marilyn (David) Love. Children: Antonio (Kristina), Timothy (Myesha), Kandyce and Dayon Jones. Grandchildren: Kristiana, Airiana, Shaniya, Nevaeh, Malachi, Trinity (John) Steele, Steven and Keyon.

Nephews and Nieces: Terri, Anthony, Regenea, Thommy, Ronnie, Willie (Nephew / Like a Brother), Paula, Robbie, Polly, Tammy, Calvin, Lee Ann, Ashley, Samantha and Kendra.

He was especially close to his great-nephew Ronnie Day Jr, fondly called Ron Ron. An abundance of great nieces and nephews, cousins and loving friends.

Luella Estelle Miller McCann

Luella Estelle Miller McCann, was born on December 1, 1928 in Johnson City, Tennessee. She was the first born of two daughters to Mary Bridwell. She was preceded in death by her sister, Frankie Miller and son, Roger E. McCann, III.

Estelle moved to Indianapolis, Indiana in 1946 and started working at the Indianapolis Country Club where she met the love of her life, Roger McCann, Jr. They were married on June 28, 1947 and celebrated 74 years wonderful years of marriage. And to this union they were blessed with six children.

Estelle was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, homemaker and worked for RCA for two years and then returned back to work at the Indianapolis Country Club in 1977 and retired in 1992.

Estelle was a member of Christ Temple Apostolic Faith Church.

She leaves to cherish her memories; her loving and devoted husband, Roger E. McCann, Jr.; four daughters, Brenda J. McCann, Karen S. Anderson, Tonya “Cookie” H. Dixon, Margaret “Margie” E. Jones; son, Patrick B. McCann; 15 grandchildren; 37 great grandchildren; several great great grandchildren and a host of cousins and extended family.

Anthony D. Carter

Anthony D. Carter was born on December 9, 1992, the son of Erica Walls and Tony Carter, in Indianapolis, Indiana. Affectionately known as “A.C.” to close friends and family,Anthony loved basketball, family gatherings, and helping others.

Anthony grew up on Indy’s northwest side, and attended school in Washington Township, with his brother L.J. He was a smart, dedicated student. Anthony graduated from North Central High School in 2011 with dreams of becoming a teacher and basketball coach. He was a Center for Leadership Development (CLD) grad and a gifted basketball player with several school leagues, YMCA, and AAU. Anthony was a member of The Blended Church, held several part-time jobs, and enjoyed volunteering at the YMCA as a youth basketball coach and referee. His favorite pastime was watching and attending NBAgames. He was a huge fan of LeBron James and Allen Iverson,and could debate basketball stats and highlights with the best of them.

Above all, Anthony had a huge heart. He would give anything he had to anyone who asked. He had a special bond with his mother, siblings, aunts, cousins, and grandmothers. As an adult, Anthony resided with his aunt Tammy, who loved and cared for him like her own.

Anthony’s warm heart, handsome smile, and sense of humorwill be missed by all who knew him. Yet, his spirit lives on through his mother and step-father, Erica and Brannon Walls;siblings James “L.J.” Broadus, Isaiah Carter, Kobe Carter, Tony Carter Jr., Deajia Cox, and Wenshi Johnson; aunts and unclesTracey Bebley, Eric and Carolina Broadus, Debbie Kay Carter, Tammy Carter, Terry Cobbs, Jackie and Devin Green, and Glen Robinson; grandparents Olivia Stowers and Eric Broadus; and a host of cousins and friends.

Anthony was proceeded in death by his father, Tony Carter, and paternal grandparents Annie Carter and Stanley Bebley.

Chanelle Rene’ Combs

Chanelle Rene’ Combs daughter of Kevin Wayne Combs and Winda Gail (Kirk) Combs was born in Indianapolis, In. November 7th 1981. Chanelle was a very loving and outgoingchild. She loved her friends and didn’t meet any strangers. Chanelle professed a hope in Christ early in life.

Chanelle attended Head Start, which was the beginning of her educational endeavor. Chanelle graduated and moved on to School # 75. Chanelle attended Ben Davis High School where she was known to make friends and encourage people. Chanelle completed her education at Ben Davis High School and Graduated in 2000. Chanelle was a pom, pom girl for the football and basketball Teams.

After High School Chanelle worked at Methodist Hospital where she obtained valuable skills in the surgery Room as a surgical Aide technician. After working there Chanelle had various jobs. One being a Clinic on 16th and College where she was encouraged by her co-workers to go back to school to obtain a Medical Technician certificate, because she did so well in the clinic. Chanelle attended Stanford Brown University receiving her Medical Technician Certificate of Completion. Afterwards obtaining employment as a Medical Technician at several Clinics and Drs. Offices.

Chanelle obtained other skills at MBP Catering Services which allowed her to Cater, Attend Bar, and Set up for Events, which also allowed her to mingle with people of wealth.

Chanelle was an entrepreneur in her own right and started her own personal cleaning service and was paid well.

She then moved on to Allison Transmission and has been employed there for 3 plus years. Where she became friends with many of her coworkers. Her special friends were Michelle, and Kenney, both of whom have told us that she brought Church to Allison and has been seen beating boxes for tambourines. Michelle shared many videos of some of the outrageous things she did at work. Making her mark as always.

It reminds me of her, Janelle, Steven, and Tiffany when they were younger always cutting up, and now Bro.Ty.

Chanelle loved spending time with family and friends as a social butterfly you could say. Everyone loved to be around her as her laughter and joy permeated the room and was infectious.

Chanelle loved swimming, reading and watching movies with her children. Chanelle loved life to the fullness.

Chanelle adored and loved her children Cha’Jerra and Ashton to the max, and they meant the world to her. Chanelle would do anything to make sure they knew how much they were loved, she only wanted the best for them. Chanelle worked overtime to ensure her only daughter Cha’jerra had everything she needed for prom and graduation to make this the best memory of this event.

Sundays were the height of her week giving God all the praise and worship in service. Attending her church, The Church of The First Born Saints. Chanelle loved to hear her pastor, Pastor Jeffery S. Foreman Preach, and the choir called her their biggest supporter. You could hear her say “SING FIRST BORN” over all the music.

Chanelle departed this side of heaven on August 19, 2021, at the tender age of 39 years old.

Chanelle leaves to cherish her memories, her mom and Dad,Kevin and Gail Combs; grandmother, Clarine Kirk; her two children, Cha’Jerra and Ashton Combs; two sisters, LaVette Kirk and Kaneshia Combs; special niece, Jane’ Barnes; longtime companion, Jeffery Moss and a host of nieces and nephews. A special thanks to Uncle James and Aunt Mary Holman.

Mr. Jeffery Lewis Hunt

Mr. Jeffery Lewis Hunt was born in Indianapolis, Indiana on February 15, 1966 to Dorothea Helen Baxter Hunt and Aaron Lee Hunt, Sr. He was named by his aunt Mattie Hunt. Jeffery was a believer in Jesus Christ and was baptized at an early age at Trinity Baptist Church. He often attended worship at Overcoming Church and listened to the on-line services.

Jeffery attended grade school at Julian D Coleman School # 110 where he excelled in English and Science. He graduated from

Arsenal Technical High School where he was an Academic Scholar. Following high school, Jeffery matriculated at Indiana University- Bloomington campus. Jeffery was a Manager at Family Dollar where he met and married Stephanie Jackson. They later divorced. Jeffrey worked for many years at T&T Construction as a painter. Later he assisted his friend Dwayne Smith on car repair and handyman jobs. In his spare time, he loved to read and exchange various genre of books with his siblings. Jeffery was an excellent artist who loved to draw. He was very affectionate towards his siblings, relatives and friends.

Mr. Jeffery Lewis Hunt departed this life on August 12, 2021 at the age of 55 years, 5 months and 29 days. He was preceded in death by his father and mother; brothers Lawrence Hunt, Sr.; Ronald Baxter, Sr.; Gregory Hunt and Derrick Hunt; sister Dorothy Jean King. He leaves to cherish his memory: 1 brother- Aaron Hunt, ; 5 sisters - Laeticia Wells, Dianne Gaines, Rita Rogers (Harold), Sherry Hunt and Kim Hunt, a host of nieces and nephews, great and great-great nieces and nephews, cousins, friends and special long-time friends Rodney Robertson and Dwayne Smith. Jeffery was much loved; he will be very missed and greatly remembered.

Leroy Seats Jr.

Leroy Seats Jr. was the eldest child born to Marilyn and Leroy Seats Sr., on December 29th 1951 in Indianapolis, Indiana where he attended Indianapolis Public Schools #73 and #51 and graduated from Arsenal Technical High School in 1970. During his school career Leroy was a member of the ATHS marching band and ATHS choir. He held his first job as a paperboy for The Indianapolis Star and News delivering papers before school. He was also a member of Grace Apostolic Boy Scout Troop #563. Leroy retired after 30 years from WTHR Channel 13 where he began as a cameraman, moved to engineering and eventually to the Live Mobile Unit.

Leroy had various hobbies but none he loved more than music, riding motorcycles, barbecuing and talking on the CB radio. He was a member of the Naptown Riders where he was affectionately nicknamed “Chicken George”. His CB Handle was Lucky 13, which was inspired by his career at Channel 13.

Leroy attended Allen Chapel A.M.E. as a young child until his adulthood where he played the drums and sang in the choir. In 1967 his membership changed to Grace Apostolic church. Leroy was a member of the Pentecostal Ambassadors, The Indiana State Choir and The Bishop’s Choir.

In December of 1970 Leroy was joined in holy matrimony to Sylvia (Graham) Seats to whom three beautiful children were born to this union; Michelle L. Seats, Eric L. Seats and Jeffrey D. Seats. In February of 1990 Leroy was joined in holy matrimony to Debbie (Wilburn) Seats to whom one child was born to this union; Leroy Seats III (Tre).

Leroy departed this life on August 10, 2021 at the age of 69. He was preceded in death by siblings, Beverly D. Seats and Michael D. Seats Sr.

He leaves to cherish his memory, one daughter, Michelle Seats; three sons, Eric, Jeffrey and Leroy III (Courtney) Seats; parents, Marilyn Hendricks and Leroy Seats Sr.; siblings, Ronald Seats, Julie (William) Evans, Karen (James) Toliver, Kenneth Seats, Denice (Gregory) Willoughby, Donna (Elon) Blackmon; grandchildren, DaiChelle (Cameron), Deonna, Randi, Erin (Jestin), Eri, Eric, Jeffrey, Totiana, Brookelynn, Devon, Xxyah, Bre, Xxyair, Javeaha, India, and Shantel; Great grandchildren, Khloe, Demi, Brielle, Brayden. In addition he leaves nieces, nephews, a host of other relatives, and friends.

Robert Wilson

Robert Antonio Wilson was born on June 16, 1956 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania to Edward Eugene Wilson, Sr. and Mary (Toney) Wilson. He was known by his family and friends as “Toney”.

“Toney” received his primary education in West Philadelphia and graduated from West Philadelphia High School. He also had an Associate’s Degree.

“Toney” accepted Christ in 2005 under the leadership of Bishop Willie J. Toney and Apostle Sylvia J. Toney at New Life Community Church of Truth.

“Toney” pursued his professional career as a floor technician at Indiana University.

“Toney” departed this life on

Saturday, August 7, 2021 at the age of 65. He was preceded in death by his father, Edward Wilson, Sr.; and his brothers, Ricky Wilson and Edward Wilson, Jr.

He leaves to cherish his memory, his mother Mary Wilson; his sons, Stacey Wilson and Robert Wilson, Jr.; his brothers, Clinton Wilson and Michael Wilson; sister, Patricia Cavanaugh; one grandchild, three aunts, one uncle and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and a multitude of other relatives and friends

Jeffrey DeWayne Bibbs

Jeffrey DeWayne Bibbs was born to Lois (Colbert) Roberts and Jeffrey L. Bibbs in Indianapolis, Indiana on April 8, 1958. He transitioned to his eternal home on August 2, 2021.

At an early age Jeffrey professed a hope in Christ and was baptized at Grace Apostolic Church, where he was active in Sunday School and the Cub Scouts.

Jeffrey received his primary education at School 44. He graduated from Pike High School and attended DePauw University. His high school and college careers were highlighted by his athletic skills on the basketball court. At DePauw, Jeffrey became the All-time Scoring Leader (currently third) and still holds records for most Field Goals Made in a career and a season.

Jeffrey took early retirement but had been employed at several notable companies including Gerber, Day Dream Publishing, Congra, and Amazon.

He was preceded in death by his beloved grandparents, Robert and Mary Grundy and stepfather, Donald Roberts, Sr.

He leaves to cherish his memory his children, Karen Bibbs, Shawn Bibbs, Chauntel Strader, and A’Dah Whitfield Bey; his thirteen grandchildren; his mother, Lois Roberts; his father, Jeffrey L. (Stephanie) Bibbs; his brothers, Donald (Suzette) Roberts, Jr.,Joseph Mayberry; his sisters, Dawn Roberts, Rebecca Bibbs, Miriam Bibbs, Frankie Bracy; and a host of aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins and many friends.

Lena A. Ridley Murray Wooden

Lena A. Ridley Murray Wooden was born on May 30, 1932, in Indianapolis, Indiana to the proud parents of Lula Belle Newton Ridley and Levi Ridley. She was the youngest child of eight sisters and three brothers.

She attended Public Schools #83, #17 and continued her education at Crispus Attucks High School.

Lena was united in Holy Matrimony to J.C. Murray and to this union (4) four sons and (2) two daughters were born. She was later united in marriage to Deacon Odell Wooden at Christ Church Apostolic.

In 1962 Mother Lena Wooden received the precious gift of the Holy Ghost at Bethesda Temple Apostolic Church under the leadership of Bishop Edwin H. Vaughn for many years. She then began fellowshipping at Christ Church Apostolic with Bishop James E. Tyson. After serving there she started worshipping with Suff. Bishop Joseph D. Farris at Zion Tabernacle Apostolic Church and after his passing, she continued her love and devotion there enjoying the word of God. She was nicknamed by the young people at Zion Tabernacle as Sister Woo Woo. She later joined Mt Zion Apostolic Church under the ministry of Bishop Lambert W. Gates, Sr. until her health began to fail. She is now resting in the presence of God, something she has longed for.

Lena was employed at the Glove Factory, Central State Hospital, Riley Hospital, Long Hospital and University Hospital as an Ordering Clerk. She retired after 33 years nursing.

Mother Lena A. Wooden went to sleep in Jesus on July 17, 2021, at the tender age of 89 years old and was preceded in death by her parents, Lula Ridley and Levi Ridley; sons, Jeffrey Murray and Daryl Murray; grandson, Jordan; her siblings, Buddy, James, Johnnie Bea, Louis, Betty May, LaVerne, Lula Jean, Inez, Anna Bell and Eva.

She leaves to cherish her loving memory her children, Ramona Powell Crabtree (Raymond), Myra D. Byrd, Charles T. Murray Sr, Brian K. Murray, Ava M. Johnson (Carl); 14 grandchildren, Charmail, Chanel, I’ashia, Maurice, Damon, Damael, Mario, Aleatha, Daela, Daryn, Charles, Jr., Briann, Quintin and Adam; nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

Travon D. Bickham

Travon D. Bickham, passed away suddenly on Tuesday, July 6, 2021. He was 24 years old.

Tra was born in Indianapolis, IN on February 20, 1997, son of Marcus Bickham and Creshendo Darring Dillon.

From an early age, he loved sports, specifically basketball. While he enjoyed the sport, he never played. In middle and High school, he played football instead.

Tra graduated from Pike High School in 2016 and began learning the HVAC trade from his beloved and best friend…his Papa, John Darring. Tra recently learned to grill and instantly fell in love with it, ribs were his favorite. He enjoyed watching the hit TV Show Criminal Minds with the love of his life, Dania Matthews to which he proposed to on December 25, 2020. The two are expecting the arrival of a baby girl (Rhylan) any day now.

Tra was baptized at a young age and confessed Christ as his Lord and Savior. Those that knew Tra admired his personality – he was funny and had a gentle sweet spirit. Taken all too soon, deeply loved and already missed we wear baby blue this day to celebrate you.

Those who hold a memory and cherish thoughts of Travon are: Fiancee’ Diana Matthews; daughter, Rhylan Ashlee Bickham; father, Marcus Bickham; mother, Creshendo Dillon (Antonio); siblings, Zedrick Taylor Jr., Passhion Bickham, Mya Cook, Jordyn Cook, Morgan Cook, Lael Bickham, Christian Bickham and Ashlee Taylor; grandparents, Edward Bickham, Mae Mazion, John and Ruby Darring; aunts and uncles, Joyeaux Mcquitty Pittman, John Darring, Jr. (Cassandra), Crystal Allen (Marc), Timothy Darring and Casey Ward (David); cousins, LaDarius Gammage, Autiyana Hughley, Alyssa Eylane, Onteria Darring, Jonathan Ward, Ivy Allen and Noah Allen.

Evangelist Wanda Louise Thomas

Evangelist Wanda Louise Thomas was born January 29, 1954, to the late Claude S. Sebree and

Irene Bell, in Clarksville, Kentucky. She was the second eldest of eight children. She attended Indianapolis Public Schools for her early education receiving special awards of recognition for Newspaper Staff and being an Office Helper. Wanda advanced on to IVY Tech State College where she earned her LPN Licensing Certification in 1992.

Evangelist Thomas was filled with the Holy Ghost in April of 1978 at Believers in Christ Church, later joining Victory Tabernacle Apostolic Church, before moving her membership in 1995 to Zion Tabernacle Apostolic Church under the leadership of Suffragan Bishop Thomas E. Griffith. Evangelist Thomas received her Ministerial License on August 12, 1994, and her Evangelist License from Aenon Bible College of the Pentecostal Assemblies of the World, Inc. on July 14, 1998. Wanda served the Lord with her whole heart. She was dedicated to reaching the mark of excellence. Serving with love, compassion and dedication. Evangelist Thomas was a faithful Alter Worker, she sung in the Women’s Day Choir, Voice’s of Zion Choir, Secretary for the Health Professionals, and Usher Auxiliary. Wanda also worked in the kitchen cooking and serving for the many ABSA Councils and Engagements held at Zion Tabernacle. She lived to serve God’s people and His kingdom. Her passion and determination to serve was unmeasurable. Wanda’s love for Christ brought others to give their life to Christ.

Wanda married Ronald S. Thomas Sr., in Indianapolis, Indiana on March 1, 2014. She was a devoted, faithful and loving wife and mother of four children, Michael L. Buchanan, David D. Farral, Charene L. Cole and Charlie Buchanan IV. An amazing granny to ten grandsons, 3 great-grandsons, and 1 great-granddaughter. Through marriage, Wanda opened her heart to five stepchildren, Patricia, Dale, Steven, Ryan and Shondra Thomas and eleven additional grandchildren. Evangelist Thomas was the epitome of a Proverbs 31 woman. Strong in every aspect of life. A teacher and preacher of the Word of God!Holding on to her joy despite the trials that may have come her way. A prayer warrior at heart. Her smile was radiant as it lit up the room. Her glow was everlasting. She made sure things were done decent and in order. She lived for an adventure while traveling the world. Wanda enjoyed cooking, baking, caring for others as a nurse, crocheting, fishing and most of all spending time with family and friends.

Wanda began her career in the medical field in 1973 as an OB CNA at St. Francis Hospital where she served for 13 years. Upon passing the NCLEX for Practical Nurses and obtaining her LPN licensing, she served as a nurse for over 28 years working in Geriatrics, Pediatrics, Medical Surgery, OB & GYN, and the ICU to name a few. In 2016, Wanda retired from nursing with St. Vincent New Hope of Indiana.

Evangelist Wanda Louise Thomas departed to be with the Lord on July 9, 2021 at the age of 67 years. She was proceeded in death by her father Claude S. Sebree, sister Patsy Sebree and brother Carl Bickley. She leaves to cherish in her memories her loving and devoted mother, Irene Oliver, her husband Ronald S. Thomas Sr.; four children, Michael L. Buchanan, David D. Farral (Alice),Charene L. Cole (Jomo) and Charlie Buchanan IV (Shamika); ten grandchildren, Cliffon Ford, Charlie Buchanan (CJ), Devonte Farral, DeArmond Wadlington (DJ), Devon Buchanan, David Farral Jr, Domonique Farral, Jomo Cole Jr., Trevon Farral, and Charlie Buchanan V.; 4 great grandchildren; Charlie Reed, Devon Buchanan Jr., Tarahji Buchanan and DeArmond Wadlington III, siblings, Betty Rogers (Samuel) Joseph Sebree, Patricia Hurst (Mark), Linda Burgess, and Stacy Wiley (Charles).; and a host of aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins and special friends to carry on her legacy.

Derreck Lamont “Sunny” Burnett

Derreck Lamont “Sunny” Burnett was born December 6, 1975 in Indianapolis, IN. He moved to Flint Michigan as a young child where he spent his elementary years. His early interests and activities consisted of playing basketball in the backyard and the gyms of University of Michigan-Flint and running road races with his dad and two brothers. He competed in 1mile, 5k, and the famous 10-mile Bobby Crim Road races. He practiced Taekwondo at his Uncle Tony Cheatham’s Karate School. Derreck developed the love to travel while vacationing with his parents. He grew up in a Christian church with his mother, where he played in the youth basketball travel league and visited many parts of the country celebrating the Biblical Holy Days.

Derreck later moved back to Indianapolis Indiana with his mother. He graduated from Northwest High School in 1994 and went on to attain his bachelor’s degree from Indiana University. Derreck was an entrepreneur and co-owner of Victory Kids Day Care, and Burnett Logistics Trucking Company. He was a manager at The Roundtable and Epic Ultra Lounge where his vast knowledge and personality in nightlife entertainment, and bar industry made him well respected amongst his peers.

Derreck was a prideful and involved parent. He spent his leisure time as a Football Dad participating in his son’s local and regional football tournaments. As a Girl Dad he regularly escorted his daughters and nieces to Father-Daughter dances and proms. He was an avid swimmer and continued his love for the water and vacationed by taking trips to coastal destinations stateside and countries abroad.

Derreck was an outspoken, outgoing, people person that brought joy and laughter to everyone he encountered. An adoring Father, Son, Brother, Friend, and Protector. He will be truly missed, and his memory will be cherished and honored. Derreck took his last breath as a noble and heroic act in the ocean waters he loved.

Derreck is preceded in death by his bonus son Gerald Antonio Beamon, maternal grandparents Joan Harris and William Cecil Shaw, paternal grandparents Louis Burnett and Delores Burnett.

Derreck leaves to cherish his loving memories: Daughters Sanaan Burnett, Kali Burnett and Sunni Burnett; Sons Derreck Burnett Jr. and Israel Burnett; Parents Sonjia (Thomas) Douglas, and Pierre (Sheila Howell) Burnett Sr.; Brothers Pierre (Shauna) Burnett Jr., Jevon (Nicole) Williams and Herve’ Douglas; Sisters Tiffany Howell, Jerri Renee Howell, and Latisha Richardson; Children’s Mothers Antonia Bradley Lanihun, Chauntel Strader, Katlynn Fields; along with a host of aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, nephews, and friends.

Jennifer Darlena Mosley

Jennifer Darlena Mosley, more known as Jenny, was born March 26, 1981, in Indianapolis, IN to Darlena B. Sturdivant-Murphy. She received her education at Arsenal Technical High School. She was the most loving, caring, compassionate, empathetic person you could ever meet. Jennifer was funny! Her true calling was to be a comedian. She loved learning and most of all doing for others more than she ever did for herself. For this reason, she was an amazing CNA since the age of 16 and remained in the medical field through the duration of her life. Her first born child was Jarred Kilgore at the age of 18 and she had her daughter, Journey Kilgore, a few years later. Both of her children were her entire life. Any decision she made revolved around her children and all three of them together were truly a team! She supported them in everything they did even until her last breath. From spelling bees, theater rehearsals, academics, and music shows.

Her favorite things included getting her lashes done, throwing parties, and spending time with her kids. The thing she talked about the most was traveling, which was something she never got the chance to do so she told her children to spread her ashes everywhere they went.

Jennifer departed this life on Saturday, June 26, 2021, at the young age of 40 years old. She was preceded in death by her mother, Darlena B. Sturdivant-Murphy, her grandparents, her cousin Shemika Boyd and a host of aunts and uncles.

To cherish her memory and keep her legacy alive Jennifer leaves behind her children Jarred Kilgore and Journey Kilgore; five siblings, Jacques Sturdivant, Jon (Roslind) Sturdivant, Je’Nice (Donald) Bolds, J’Nai Murphy, and J’Dai Murphy; a host of nieces and nephews, other relatives, and friends.

Saying “Goodbye” just doesn’t feel right. So we will just say “See you later Jenny.”

Jerry Lee Turentine, Sr.

Jerry Lee Turentine, Sr. was born on January 10, 1960 to Mack H. Turentine, Sr. and Dorothy M. Jefferson Turentine in Indianapolis, Indiana. Jerry was employed at Southwark Metals as a warehouse associate. He is survived by his sons, Jerry L. Turentine, Jr., Antoine J. Turentine, Sr., Reggie E. Turentine, Sr.; daughter, Tonisha D. Turentine; brothers, Mack H. Turentine II; sisters, Paulette Y. Patterson, Patricia L. Adams, Denise D. Edwards, Wanda R. Turentine, Regina R. Turentine-Allen.

Homegoing Celebration will be held on Saturday, June 19, 2021 at Jerusalem Temple Church and burial will take place at New Crown Cemetery. Services will be live streamed at www.ellismortuary.com

Dewayne Paicely

Dewayne Paicely was born on December 6th, 1973, to Dewayne Johnson and Dip “Carla Bennett” in Indianapolis, Indiana. Dewayne was raised by Sallie and Clifford Paicely and Marlene Johnson & The Johnson Family. Dewayne was a God-fearing man who was loved by so many people amongst his family and throughout the community. Dewayne “Boe” as his family and friends called him, was also affectionately known as “Uncle” to those youth that were closest to him. Boe was an exemplary role model and a mentor to many that were blessed to know him. His legacy of good deeds, morals, values and amazing work ethic will live on. Boe worked at Americold for 11 years as a trainer and forklift operator where he was dedicated to his work.

Boe was a family man who always put his wife and those he considered family first. This was exemplified in his marriage to Shalena. Dewayne (pronounced like Whitley from a Different World) and Shalena started out as friends in 2007. Every month Dewayne sent Shalena flowers for 14 years. Dewayne set the bar HIGH! There will never be a question if or how much Dewayne love Shalena. And how much Shalena love her Dewayne. His love showed through his acts of loyalty, faithfulness, as a provider, protector, being a man of his word, and always being there for his wife. They referred to each other as “Heaven Sent”. Shalena will always be Dewayne’s Queen and Dewayne will always be her King.

Boe was just a kindhearted person who looked out for those he considered to be in need. Boe was an Uncle to the kids in his family and in the community. Those who consider him Uncle had the up most respect for Dewayne as a man and mentor. He truly was a leader in his community. He spent his free time playing football with his nephews godson and neighborhood nephews. May times you could find Dewayne in his yard fixing the neighborhood kid’s bikes. Then there was his love for single mothers, Dewayne had a soft spot for hard working single mothers. Taking the extra steps to look out for them and mentoring their children without wanting anything in return. There are so many who are forever grateful for Dewayne being there for them and their children.

Dewayne “Boe” Paicely is survived by his Queen Shalena Paicely; his siblings; April Davis (Maurice) - Mother Pamela Johnson; Dionne Malcolm (Dwayne) - Mother Brenda Driver; Lewayne Leachman (Anthony) – Dip “Carla Bennett”, Jasper Paicely – Dip “Carla Bennett”, Shawn Richardson (Jarin) Dip “Carla Bennett”; Damon Boddle – Mother Jody Boddle; Solita Hubbard (Marcus) – Mother Regina Johnson, Lawrence Dean – Mother Regina Johnson, Tiameka Riley (Martin) – Regina Johnson; and Alicia Hudson – Emma Hudson. He is also survived by a host of nephews, nieces, cousins, and friends. And godson Derek Woods.

Wardell Hart

Wardell Hart was born in Indianola, Mississippi on June 27, 1949 to loving parents father Henry Hart and mother Catherine (Moore) Hart. Life wasn't always easy growing up but everyone had a job and the work had to be done.

Wardell was a very hardworking dedicated worker who would go above and beyond to get each job completed. Wardell was employed by Mac's Katz Bag Company. He also worked for Blakeley's Flooring as a carpet and flooring installation Sub-Contractor.

Wardell was always joking around and had a different name in mind for you and sometimes the same name for you everytime he spoke with you, and it would always bring a smile to your face.

Wardell Hart departed this world on May 4, 2021 at the age of 71years old. He was preceded in death by his parents, sisters; Jeanette, Ernestine, Claudett, Prestine and his twin Vernell. His brother's; Charlie, Elbert, Jonathan, Cleaveland, Otis, and Leo.

Wardell is survived by son, Michael Jerome Hart (Caroline) and daughter, Regina Nicole Hart (Debra), five grandchildren, eight great grandchildren; sisters, Mary Jane Akins and Inell Edwards and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, friends and family.

Adair Washington

Adair Washington was a Queen among us, she also made everyone feel like royalty!

Born May 28, 1960 to Rev. Kenneth Ward and Elizabeth Merriweather, Adair was raised in Indianapolis, IN. Adair married the love of her life Jeffrey Washington on April 30th, 1983, and she passed on April 26th just before their 38th wedding anniversary on April 30th. Adair was diagnosed with stage 4 cancer just 2 months ago.

She was a dedicated member and served at: Grace Apostolic Church with Bishop Morris E. Golder, Christ Church Apostolic with Bishop James E. Tyson, Zion Temple Pentecostal Church with Suffragan Bishop Jasper Phillips, and Calvary Community Church in Columbus, IN with Diocesan Bishop Charles A. Sims. Adair had a love for music and shared her musical gifts as a high soprano, passing this joy for music on to her children.

Adair was one of the very first Black American women to go through the notoriously difficult and challenging dental degree program at The Ohio State University. When Adair finally retired her dental license, she had accumulated over 30 years of service, most notably serving with Dr. Victor Mckoy’s practice in Columbus Ohio. While in Ohio, Adair was a loyal member of New Covenant Believers Church, overseen by the leadership of Bishop Howard Tilman.

On April 24, 2004, Adair and her family started their own ministry, Reign Oasis Center, a self monikered “church out of the box” out-reach that continues to influence and affect countless lives for the better. Through her ministry, Adair fellowshipped and served with many powerful ministries, weaving together a common thread that love is our connection to God.

The light of Adair’s life was her husband, 2 children and family. Adair adored her 5 siblings who are all close knit, and a big part of her everyday life. Adair also dearly loved her nieces, nephews and great nieces and nephews. Adair was so proud of the fact that her son Jeffrey Lamar is a graduate of The Ohio State University, and that her daughter Lea Adair graduated from Berklee College of Music in Boston, Summa Cum Laude at the top of her class, while attending courses at Harvard Law School. Adair also had a passion for spreading positivity and making people feel great about themselves, regularly stopping strangers just to impart words of kindness and compliments into their lives.

Adair is survived by her loving husband, Jeffrey Washington; daughter, Lea Adair Washington; son, Jeffrey Lamar Washington; sisters, Sheryl Ward, Sharron Ward; brothers, Kenneth Ward, Beacher Ward, Marcus Ward; nieces, nephews, cousins, aunts and uncles and extended family.

In lieu of flowers the family is gratefully requesting monetary gifts to help lift the financial responsibilities and give a proper funeral that will honor Adair, as well as pay for Adair’s medical treatments. Love Gift Link: https://gofund.me/7b2787eb or contact Lea Washington on Facebook.

Celebration of Life services will be held on Saturday, May 8, 2021 at 2:00pm at Christ Church Apostolic, with visitation there from 10:00am-12:00pm. Face masks are required and social distancing will be enforced.

Burial will take place at Crown Hill Cemetery. Final arrangements entrusted to Ellis Mortuary. Services will be live streamed.

Karli Ann Smith

Karli Ann Smith, 19 of Indianapolis went to be with the Lord on April 15, 2021. She was a beautiful young woman with her entire life in front of her.

She was a graduate of George Washington High School in 2020. She loved softball, music and her family. She is preceded in death by her maternal grandmother, Roberta Luhrsen.

She is survived by her mother, Karen Smith; father Matthew Alexander; her dad, Anthony Smith; siblings, Brandon Smith, Kyan Smith, Braxton Smith, Karenna Smith, Anthony Moszee, Raimey Moszee, Jazmyne Moszee, Ayanna Montgomery, Wayne Haag, Ronald Nelson, Ronnel Nelson, Marcus Henline and Dominique Troutman. As well as extended family, uncle Nathaniel Luhrsen and family, uncle, David Luhrsen and Family, and aunt, Kimberly Taylor and family.

A viewing and visitation is scheduled for Saturday April 24, 2021. Public visitation will begin at 10:15 and end at 11:50. A Celebration of Life is scheduled for Sunda,y April 25th at the Daniel Webster Family Academy IPS# 46 from 4:00-8:00.

Tawian Ray Sanders

Tawian Ray Sanders was born on November 12, 1992 in Indianapolis, Indiana to David Sanders and Angel J. Jefferson-Sanders. Tawian received his education at Lincoln Elementary and graduated from Pike High School.

Lefty as he was affectionately called by his friends when they played basketball always went to the left and that is where his nickname came from. Tawian professed a hope in Christ as an early age.

Tawian was a great cook and was employed at the Hyatt hotel where he made many delicious meals for those who came to the hotel and also enjoyed cooking meals for his twin sister who has special needs, but he made sure she was taken care of. He was her legs.

He loved basketball and started playing ball at the age of four. He played basketball at Lincoln, Pike H.S. and also played with the AAU traveling team. He loved the number 24 which was his favorite player, Kobe Bryant’s number.

Tawian loved going to family functions, where he was the life of the party. Everybody knew that Tawian was a Momma’s boy and there was no place she would be that you would not find him there.

Tawian departed this earthly life on April 16, 2021 at the tender age of 28 years old. He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Betty Jefferson, Herbert Reed, Maryann Hinton, John Sanders.

Tawian Ray Sanders leaves to cherish his loving memory; mother, Angel J. Sanders; father, David Sanders; brother, David Sanders, Jr.; sisters, Tawanna Sanders, Tonisha Jefferson, Patrice Jefferson; special aunt, Tonya Troutman; a host of nephews, nieces, cousins, aunts, uncles and special friends

Janet Marie Yates

Janet Marie Yates was born in Indianapolis, Indiana to Charles and Mildred (Ellis) McFarland on October 30th, 1947. Both parents ha