McPeek-Hoekstra Funeral Home Obituaries

A Legacy of Compassion and Care: McPeek-Hoekstra Funeral Home

Located in the heart of Granville, Ohio, McPeek-Hoekstra Funeral Home has been a beacon of comfort and support for families navigating the most difficult of times. With a rich history and a commitment to excellence, this esteemed funeral home has earned a reputation as a trusted and compassionate provider of funeral services.

A History of Service and Dedication

Established with a mission to serve the community with dignity and respect, McPeek-Hoekstra Funeral Home has been a cornerstone of Granville's funeral industry for generations. The funeral home's story began with a vision to provide personalized, high-quality funeral services that would honor the memories of loved ones while supporting their families through the grieving process. Today, the funeral home remains dedicated to upholding this legacy, continually adapting to meet the evolving needs of the community it serves.

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Recent Funeral Home Obituaries

JoHelen DePue - Unknown - April 01, 2022

Departed: 04/01/2022 (Granville)

Obituary Preview: A celebration of life will be held for Josephine Helen DePue, 73, of Zanesville, at 11:00 A.M. on Thursday, April 14, 2022 at First Baptist Church, 80 E. Main St, South Zanesville, Ohio with Rev. David Nuhfer as celebrant. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service at the church in SOUTH ZANESVILLE.

JoHelen passed away April 1, 2022 at Altercare in Zanesville. She was born in Amesville, Ohio to the late Leonard and Jospehine.

A retired educator, JoHelen enjoyed a teaching career that included 30 years at Zanesville Public Schools and instructing composition at O.S.U., Newark, Central Ohio Technical College, and Franklin University. She was a graduate of Ohio University with a Master’s in Social Science, where she was a Martha Jennings Foundation Scholar and a former member of Phi Delta Kappa.

JoHelen was a member of The Daughters of the American Revolution, Granville Chapter and a former member of St. Luke’s Episcopal Church where she served on the Altar Guild, Historic Preservation Committee, and Outreach Committee. She was currently attending First Baptist Church in South Zanesville.

Surviving are her brothers, Henry C. DePue and Leonard DePue.

Memorial contributions may be made to DAR, Granville Chapter C/O McPeek-Hoekstra Funeral Home, P.O. Box 185, Granville, OH 43023.

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Thomas Showman - Unknown - March 28, 2022

Departed: 03/28/2022 (Granville)

Obituary Preview: Thomas M. Showman an outdoorsman, hunter, and fisherman passed away at his home March 28, 2022, surrounded by family, at the age of 69. He was born in Granville, Ohio to the late Calvin and Evelyn “Juanita” Showman.

A 1971 graduate of Granville High School, Tom was employed “too damn long” (40 years) at Owens Corning Fiberglass as an electrician. He learned his trade at technical school.

Outdoors was Tom’s second home and he spent every moment he could there. He especially loved turkey hunting in Pennsylvania and fishing in Okeechobee. He loved sports and played basketball and softball with his fellow workers. Tom’s greatest pride was his family, and he will be loved and remembered as the iron-willed protector. His grandchildren were his world.

Surviving are his wife of 30 years, Jackey; sons, Scott (Tammy) Showman and Phillip Showman, daughter, Lori (Eric) Uhl; grandchildren, Jacob (Kania), Jeseca (John), Alexus, Dakota, Jared, and Alex; great grandchildren, Everett and Sawyer; siblings, Wesley “Gene” (Peggy) Showman, David (Sharon) Showman, Sandi Hughes, and Barbara Gasser; and his faithful Beagle, Anny.

In addition to his parents, Tom was preceded in death by his brother, Charlie; sister, Linda; and brother-in-law, Steve Hughes.

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June C Nickerson - Unknown - March 25, 2022

Departed: 03/25/2022 (Granville)

Obituary Preview: June Nickerson, 96, died peacefully Friday night, March 25th, at the Otterbein Health Center in Granville.  She was born  in Glenside, Pennsylvania to the late Alfred Cope and Helen Hartshorne.

Surviving are her sons, Fred (Tammy) Nickerson and George Nickerson; grandchildren, Mark Nickerson, Annie (Paul) Kolk, and Quentin (Gloria) Nickerson; great grandson, Ryan Bowers; and brother C. Dale (Jodie) Hartshorne.

In addition to her parents, June was preceded in death by her husband, Irving A. Nickerson; son, Thomas C. Nickerson; and brother, Frank A. Hartshorne.

There will be a private family memorial and tree planting at a later date.

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John A Lieberth - Unknown - March 22, 2022

Departed: 03/22/2022 (Granville)

Obituary Preview: A Funeral Mass will be held for John A. Lieberth, 79, of Granville, on Tuesday, April 19, 2022 at 10:00 A.M. at the Church of St. Edward the Confessor, 785 Newark Granville Rd., Granville with Msgr. Paul P. Enke as celebrant. Burial will follow at Welsh Hills Cemetery in Granville.

A graduate of the University of Cincinnati, John retired from Licking Memorial Hospital after 50 years and two months service as a pharmacist. He was previously employed at Taylor Pharmacy in Granville. As a pharmacist, he was dedicated to making sure his patients received the medications they needed.

John enjoyed being outside tending to his vegetable garden, fishing in Canada, and hunting.

Surviving are his wife of 55 years, Bernadette; children and their spouses, Michael Lieberth and Joy Smith, Mark Lieberth and Stephanie Meyers, and Erin Gramza; grandchildren, Katherine, Caroline, and Madeleine Lieberth, Ryan and Adam Lieberth, and Elizabeth and Paige Gramza; and sister, Ann K. Lieberth.

In addition to his parents, John was preceded in death by his sister, Jane A. Lieberth.

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Paula Hinebaugh - Unknown - March 19, 2022

Departed: 03/19/2022 (Granville)

Obituary Preview: A memorial service celebrating the life of Paula A. Hinebaugh, 80, of Granville, will be held at 2:00 P.M. on Sunday, March 27, 2022 at First Presbyterian Church, 110 W. Broadway, Granville with Rev. Karen J. Chakoian, as celebrant. A private graveside service will be held at Maple Grove Cemetery in Granville.

Paula passed away Saturday, March 19, 2022, at her home surrounded by family. She was born in Evergreen Park, Illinois to the late Paul and Esma Stove.

A graduate of Ohio Northern University with a degree in education, Paula was a teacher in Westerville Schools and Granville Schools before embarking on her tenure as a long-time substitute teacher locally.

An active member of First Presbyterian Church in Granville for 55 years, Paula’s presence, service, and ministry was shared with many in a variety of roles. She enjoyed walking, hiking, and traveling to National Parks with her best friend and husband of 57 years, Bob. Her unconditional love for her family was exhibited by her championing spirit and dependable nature.

Surviving are her husband, Robert; children and their families; Jeff and Erika Hinebaugh and Hans and Analise, Laura and Peter Igoe and Jack, Elisabeth, and Sadie; and faithful canine, Daisy.

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David Denton - Unknown - March 14, 2022

Departed: 03/14/2022 (Granville)

Obituary Preview: A Mass of Christian Burial will be held for David Denton, 77, of Granville, at 10:00 A.M. Friday, March 18, 2022 at St Leo the Great Oratory, Institute of Christ the King, 221 Hanford St., Columbus with Canon David Silvey as celebrant. Burial will follow at St. Joseph Cemetery, Lockbourne, Ohio.

A Vietnam War, Marine Corps veteran, David passed away Monday, March 14, 2022 at Arlington Care Center in Newark. He was born in Frankfort, Indiana to the late Kenneth and Marie Denton.

David’s well-respected 43-year career with the railroads began with the Nickel Plate Railroad, Main Central Railroad, and ended with the Federal Railroad Administration as a mechanical inspector.  He was one of two U.S. inspectors certified in steam locomotives.

A principled man of conscience and character, David was well read, liked to debate, and was known as an arm-chair philosopher to his friends and acquaintances.  Most importantly, David was a man of faith and a devout Catholic. He served as president of Right to Life in Licking County for 15 years. He will be remembered as a loving husband and father.

Surviving are his wife of 54 years, Gail; sons and daughter-in-law, Benjamin Denton, Joel and Jill Denton, and Andrew Denton; grandchildren, Nils Bleistein, Paul Denton, and Elizabeth Denton; sisters and brother-in-law, Suzanne and Richard Cohen and Cynthia Wineburgh; sisters-in-law, Teresa and Mary Gillum; and brother-in-law, Kirk Gillum.

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Seanna Holtz - Unknown - March 12, 2022

Departed: 03/12/2022 (Granville)

Obituary Preview: Seanna Jean Holtz was born in 1941 in Columbus, Wisconsin to the late Lorraine (White) and Alfred K. Holtz. She graduated from Columbus High School in 1959 and attended Reed College in Portland, Oregon. She died March 12, 2022.

Seanna lived for many years in Granville, Ohio, and worked in the Denison University Library there.

Surviving are her children, Loronah (Elizabeth Warren), Kerensa (Kyle Simpson), Debne (Chris Marlette), and Stuart Thom; grandchildren, Grant, Hugh, Iain, and Jordan Prentice, Kira and Kent Simpson, and Katherine and Joseph Marlette; sisters, Deborah (Luke) Gillespie and Signe (Ron Halvorson) Holtz; and three nephews, Earl (Ponah), Aaron (Carolyn), and Eric (Gina) Gillespie and their children.

In addition to her parents, Seanna was preceded in death by her granddaughter, Elizabeth Hope Marlette.

A life-long learner, Seanna loved books and reading, which can be best described in her own words:  “Between books, videos, and the internet, I can go anywhere anytime and as an extra added attraction, I am not confined to the here and now. I can visit anytime, anywhere that appeals".  She loved all things creative, especially for her family – birthday cakes, school projects, crafts, costumes; the list could go on and on.  Seanna had a particular fondness and love for holidays and family traditions. She excelled in all things culinary and loved to test and share new recipes. Being from Wisconsin, she loved all things dairy and truly believed that chocolate was the fifth main food group.

Seanna loved music of all genres with a particular fondness for Johnny Cash, Elvis, Bob Dylan, and Waylon Jennings. She also loved sports and was a fan of the Green Bay Packers (wearing a Cheesehead and proudly displaying newspaper articles of Brett Favre on her refrigerator), University of Wisconsin athletics, and especially Cincinnati Reds baseball.  As a diehard National League baseball fan, she detested the designated hitter, often quoting the movie Bull Durham:  “I believe there ought to be a constitutional amendment outlawing astroturf and the designated hitter”.

Most of all, Seanna loved her family.  She encouraged them to follow their interests, allowing them the freedom to make mistakes and learn from them.  She relished and championed youth sports for her children and grandchildren – baseball, basketball, soccer, track & field, field hockey, volleyball, and karate.  She was unquestionably loyal and was the fiercest defender of those closest to her. Time with those she loved was the brightest spot in her life.  Her lifelong friendships, from Wisconsin to Granville, were a testament to the value she placed on the relationships in her life and those she cherished.

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John F. Sylvester - Unknown - March 09, 2022

Departed: 03/09/2022 (Granville)

Obituary Preview: John F. Sylvester, 76, of Cape Coral and Sanibel Island, FL has died after a valiant battle with lung cancer.

A veteran of the Navy, John is survived by siblings Jane (CA), Amy (NH) and Philip (OR) as well as their children, two grandnieces and many friends he cherished as his “local” family.

Self proclaimed “freelance philosopher,” John was a seeker who in his final days shared that he now embodied the love he had been seeking and that he felt gratitude, grace and peace. His life will be celebrated on a later date at Unity of Ft Myers.

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Kerry J. Davis - Unknown - March 08, 2022

Departed: 03/08/2022 (Granville)

Obituary Preview: Kerry Jonathan Davis passed peacefully at his home in Granville on March 8th 2022 at the age of 60 from lung cancer.

Kerry was born to Robert and Wanda Davis at Newark Hospital on December 16th 1961. He attended Granville schools and graduated from Newark Catholic in 1980 where he played varsity football and met lifelong friends. Later he worked construction with a special interest in stone masonry. He was always a witty, caring and happy person. Kerry loved nature, Ohio State and Cleveland Browns football, and most of all his family.

Kerry is survived by those he loved and cared deeply for, who loved and cared deeply for him. Each holding firmly at his side throughout his life until the very end. His beloved daughter, Jessica. His mother Wanda. Siblings Kristie and husband Michael Green, Kent and wife Jenny Davis. Niece Tracy and husband Jeremy Hysell. Nephews BJ Davis, Ryan Green, Colon and wife Megan Green. Uncle Michael Davis, close friends through the years, and his "best buddy" Rosie the cat. Kerry is proceeded in death by his father, Robert Davis.

A private service will be held in the spring for close family and friends at his home, by the pond, where he always longed to be.

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Lewis C Huston, Jr. - Unknown - February 22, 2022

Departed: 02/22/2022 (Granville)

Obituary Preview: Born in 1929, Lewis C. Huston, Jr. passed away February 22, 2022 at the Selma Markowitz Care Center, operated by Hospice of Central Ohio. An Army veteran, Lew was born in Ilion, New York to the late Lewis C. and Laura Mae Huston.

Lew retired in 1991 from Licking Memorial Hospital where he was Director of Pharmacy Services. A 1951 graduate of the College of Pharmacy at Ohio Northern University, Lew was passionate and dedicated to his profession. He was instrumental in bringing the polio vaccine to Licking County through his friendship with a drug agent. His civic mindedness also included serving on Granville Village Council and membership in the 20/30 Club. He was a member of Heath Church of Christ and cherished the many relationships that were formed there.

Surviving are his children and their spouses, Lewis and Rita Huston, III and Pam and Neil McKown; grandchildren, Samuel Alan and Lauren May McKown; and sister-in-law, Sharon Huston.

In addition to his parents, Lew was preceded in death by his first wife, Ina May Huston; second wife, Elizabeth Rose; and brother, Robert Huston, M.D..

A memorial service celebrating Lew’s life will be held at 11:00 A.M. Friday, March 11, 2022 at Heath Church of Christ, 1331 Chapel Way, Heath with Rev. Dave Mason and Rev. Jeff Smith as celebrants. A private graveside service with military honors will be held at Maple Grove Cemetery in Granville.

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Harold C Attebery - Unknown - February 13, 2022

Departed: 02/13/2022 (Granville)

Obituary Preview: Harold C. Attebery of Granville, died Sunday, February 13, 2022 at Otterbein Granville.  Harold was born in 1926 in Hillsboro, Illinois.  He was preceded in death by his parents, one sister, and one brother.

Harold was a World War II U.S. Army veteran, a graduate of University of Illinois, and a lifetime member of The American Legion.  He moved to Ohio in 1950 as a manufacturers Rep, selling equipment for feed mills and grain elevators in Ohio, Northern Kentucky, and West Virginia.  He started the H.C. Attebery and Associates Construction Company to install equipment, as well as Butler buildings.  He remodeled and built many new mills throughout this territory.

He was the founder of Granville Milling Company in 1953, and remained on the Board until his death.  After moving to Granville in 1956, he was active in the community.  He purchased the land on South Main Street and proceeded to build the Granville Shopping Center.  He is a past president of the Granville Rotary, was instrumental in getting the Licking County Joint Vocational School started, and was active in 4-H as an advisor.  Upon retiring from sales and construction, he became a snow bird, spending half each year at his homes in Florida and Granville, and renewing his interest in golf.

Harold love to travel, having gone to Alaska three times, first in 1948 on the Alcan Highway.  He and Agnes made many trips overseas.  His favorites were the river cruises in Europe and adventures in Central and South America.

Harold leaves behind his wife, Agnes Howard-Attebery; three children, Chuck (Robin) Attebery of Tarpon Springs, FL, Lori (Chris) Mays of Granville, OH, and Dr. Lisa Attebery of Rehoboth Beach, DE; six grandchildren, Alec Attebery (Kelsie) of Coshocton, OH, Caleb, Cameron, and Jordan Attebery of Trapon Spring, FL, Wyatt and Gillian McCracken of Columbus, OH; one great granddaughter; stepchildren, John (Lois) Abraham of Venice, FL, Karan (Thurman) Freeman of St. Louisville, OH, Dave Abraham of Port St. Lucie, FL, Fred (Kathy) Abraham of Granville, OH, Pat (Suzie) Howard of Hebron, OH, Debbie (Ken) Stewart of Granville, OH; and numerous step grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Harold had a lot of short sayings he came up with quite often.  One of his favorites was, “No problems, just challenges and opportunities”.  He didn’t proclaim this to be his motto in life, although he did live his life along those lines, meeting all his challenges and taking advantage of all opportunities presented to him.

A special Thank You to the staff of Otterbein Granville Health Center and Therapy Department, for the excellent care Harold received during his stay at this facility.

A funeral service for Harold will be held Monday, February 21, 2022 at 10:00 A.M. at Centenary United Methodist Church, 102 E. Broadway, in Granville with Rev. Casey Wilson as celebrant. Burial will follow at Maple Grove Cemetery in Granville.

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Thomas W. Toothman - Unknown - February 11, 2022

Departed: 02/11/2022 (Granville)

Obituary Preview: A memorial service celebrating the life of Thomas W. Toothman, formerly of Granville, will be held at 11:00 A.M. Saturday, February 19, 2022 at First Presbyterian Church, 110 W. Broadway, Granville with Rev. Karen J. Chakoian as celebrant. A private graveside service will be held at Maple Grove Cemetery in Granville with military honors provided by the Licking County Veterans Alliance.

Retired from EBCO as an industrial engineer, Tom was born in Newark, Ohio to the late Robert L. and Doris J. Toothman. He passed away February 11, 2022 at Licking Memorial Hospital at the age of 80.

An Army veteran, Tom graduated from Newark High School. He would later enjoy a second career there serving as a bus driver. When not working, Tom enjoyed golfing, playing cards, and fishing with fervor. He loved a good O.S.U. game, was an avid sports fan, a movie fanatic, strong willed, yet was young at heart, also known as, “Rubber Legs”,  from his many years of roller skating. Tom was a fun photographer and squirrel hunter that also loved country music and mowing grass at Bryn Du.  At Church,Tom was active in PRISM Sunday School and started the men’s corner table during fellowship and was instrumental in starting a local Marfan Syndrome support group. He will be fondly remembered for his sense of humor and good nature.

In addition to his parents, Tom was preceded in death by his first wife, Pat, who died in 2000.

Surviving are his wife of 20 years this coming October, Jackie; sons and daughters-in-law, Brian and Stephanie Toothman, Aaron and Susan Toothman, Lance Dildine, Trevor Dildine, and Cabot and Catherine Dison; grandchildren, Jarrett, Gage, Alex, and Carina Dison.

Memorial contributions may be made to The Marfan Foundation, 22 Manhasset Avenue, Port Washington, NY 11050, American Heart Association, National Center, 7272 Greenville Avenue, Dallas, TX 75231, American Lung Association, 55 W. Wacker Drive, Suite 1150, Chicago, IL 60601, or 1500trees.org.

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Susan Bizic - Unknown - February 10, 2022

Departed: 02/10/2022 (Granville)

Obituary Preview: It is with great sadness that we announce the recent passing of Ms. Susan Jane Shields Bizic, 78, at her home in Granville, Ohio, after a long battle with COPD.

Susan was born in Ohio in 1943 and was a graduate of Adena High School in Adena, Ohio. She married Rudolph Bizic in 1962. Together they raised four children. Susan went on to become a dedicated legal secretary and paralegal. She retired while working for the United States Department of Justice in Wheeling, West Virginia. Some of Susan’s previous employers include NSA, NASA and EPA.

Susan was a devoted Christian and she enjoyed the simple pleasures, including chatting with friends and family, rooting for Ohio State in football games, listening to music (notably the Bee Gees and Scottish tunes), fine dining, watching British comedies and spending time with her beloved grandchildren and her faithful dog, Honey. She was also a game show enthusiast and would have been a challenging contestant given the opportunity to compete. She had a sharp, intelligent and beautiful mind.

There will be a memorial service Monday, February 14th in Granville, OH at 10:00 AM at Hoekstra Funeral Home. Following her wishes, her body will be laid to rest in Harrisville, OH at Olive Branch Cemetery at 2:30 PM alongside her late husband and other family members. Following the burial service, friends and family are invited to attend a celebration of Susan’s life Monday at Undo’s West at 4:00 PM, located at 51130 National Rd. E. in St. Clairsville, OH. If you have some pictures or memories to share, please bring them as we remember her and share a meal together.

Friends and family are welcome to join at either / both locations.

Susan is survived by her four children Laurie Simpson, wife of Jeff Simpson (Port Richey FL), John Bizic, husband of Donna Bizic (Columbia, NC), Melanie Schott, wife of Nick Schott (Granville, OH) and Holly Bizic, partner of Rita Tedio (St. Petersburg, FL)]; nine grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.

Susan is preceded in death by her husband, Rudolph “Rudy” Bizic (1999); her brother, Thomas E. Shields (1992); her parents; Howard H. Shields (1981) and Hazel M. Skaggs (1980); and second husband, Ollie “Turk” Jones (1993).

The family would especially like to thank Kay Bahr for her kindheartedness and assistance with Honey, Susan’s loving pet, as well as the staff of Home Instead in Granville, OH for their compassion and attentive assistance over the past several months.

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Gloria J. Hoover - Unknown - February 07, 2022

Departed: 02/07/2022 (Granville)

Obituary Preview: Gloria Calentine Hoover, 96, of Granville, died Monday, Feb. 7, 2022 at Licking Memorial Hospital in Newark, Ohio.  A memorial service will be announced at a later date.

Contributions in her memory may be made to The Licking County Humane Society, 825 Thornwood Dr, Heath, Ohio 43056.

Condolences may be expressed at www.mcpeekhoekstra.com. A tribute by Gloria's niece, Jan:

Gloria Jean Calentine Hoover was born in 1925, in Columbus, Ohio, to parents Robert and Hilda Calentine. The eldest of four, Gloria loved being the big sister.

Even at an early age, she loved the written word. An avid reader and writer, her first poem, entitled ” Spring” , won  her national honors at the age of 12 in the national Sunday School publication, Junior Joys, of the Nazarene  Churches.  High school saw her immersed in theatre and editing the West High School yearbook.

In 1945, she married H. Damon Hoover (1913 -1984), and in 1950 they bought a small farm in McKean Township, Licking County. Damon commuted to Columbus with his employment with Boeing as an engineer, while Gloria immersed herself in the community around her and taking care of the menagerie of goats, chickens, and bee hives.

In 1961, Gloria enrolled as a student at Denison University, immersing herself in studies of history and art, as time allowed, while also raising a busy family. Shortly thereafter, Damon’s work necessitated his moving his family several times for temporary assignments to Maryland and later, Ridgecrest, California. Late in 1964, Gloria and Damon purchased a home on E. College Street, Granville. There, Gloria embarked on a life-changing event. Her 1965 entry of “Theresa Anise Cookies”  took 1st place in the cookie division, and “Best Overall” baked goods at the Ohio State Fair. Thus, was the humble beginnings of the development of her baking business - “Gloria Hoover’s Cookies.”

The cookie she was best known for was her own development - the “Hetuck Cookie,” for which she received a U.S. design patent in 1961. When a Hetuck tree was dedicated to Ohio in ceremonies  held on the grounds at the US Capitol , Gloria’s Hetuck cookies were presented to all in attendance, including U.S. Representative Chalmers Wylie,  and Governor Robert Taft. Later that day, the infamous cookies were served in the restaurant of the House of Representatives.

Whilst doing all that, between 1971-1976, she published four advertising/marketing booklets of Licking County and the surrounding area, promoting tourism and antiquing.

However, even with all that success, Gloria decided to return to her first love - writing.

In 1977, she joined the staff at The Advocate, where until 1981 she was Editor of the Peoples’ Page. She loved nothing more than meeting and interviewing hundreds of people and sharing their stories in the newspaper. While vacationing in England in the summer of 1979, Gloria rode the train 3 hours from London to Newark-On-Trent, where she met the Mayor, Bill Drury. An instant friendship was formed. Within no time, plans began to establish “NEWARKS OF THE WORLD”- an internationally connected group of  towns called “Newark.”

In 1991, Gloria decided it was time to follow her own path, and left  The Advocate to establish a writing and marketing business. Clients included three Ohio steel mills and Velvet Ice Cream, among others.

Gloria is perhaps best known for her development of the Hubert and Oese Robinson Lifestyle Museum, a Granville museum, highlighting four generations of Hubert’s family, and how life of ordinary citizens (rather the presidents and wealthy citizens) was lived during their time.

In her later years, Gloria wrote hundreds of columns for publications  such as  The Granville Sentinel, The Advocate, and Good Times  magazine. Her passion for history and writing saw her always immersed in research and historical archiving.  She was, indeed, a living “encyclopedia” of Granville and Licking County history.

A memorial celebration in early summer 2022 will be held to honor and remember her amazing life.

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Robert A. Ramsay - Unknown - February 07, 2022

Departed: 02/07/2022 (Granville)

Obituary Preview: Robert A. Ramsay, age 68, passed away at his home February 7, 2022. He was born in Newark to the late Thomas A. and JoAnne Inez Ramsay and was a fourth generation Ramsay in Granville. Bob lived adjacent to the home built by his great grandfather on North Pearl Street. He was proud of his Granville heritage and the history of his hometown.  Bob graduated from Granville High School with the class of 1972.

Bob retired from Kaiser Aluminum where he was a clerk in the Maintenance Department. He was an eclectic reader. He enjoyed birding, gardening, vacationing in Key West, and adopting rescue dogs. He loved motorcycle riding and was a life-time member of the American Motorcycle Association. He’d often ride alone returning with Bonnie to share the places he discovered. He devoted himself to things that piqued his interest and loved sharing that knowledge with others.

Surviving are his wife, Bonnie; siblings, Paul and Connie Ramsay, and Colette and Bernard Goodin; nieces, nephews, and canine companion, Trixie.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Granville Historical Society, P.O. Box 129, Granville, OH 43023.

At Bob’s request no services will be held at this time.  There will be a Celebration of Life on Friday, July 1, 2022 at McPeek Lodge in Granville with the time to be announced at a later date.

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Frances Morris - Unknown - February 03, 2022

Departed: 02/03/2022 (Granville)

Obituary Preview: A Funeral Mass for Frances Marie D. Morris, 88, of Newark, will be held Friday, February 11, 2022 at 3:00 PM at the Church of St. Edward the Confessor, 785 Newark-Granville Road in Granville with Msgr. Paul P. Enke as celebrant.  The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service at the church.

A retired teacher with Bloom-Carroll Local School District for over 30 years, Fran passed away on Thursday, Feb. 3, 2022 at Licking Memorial Hospital in Newark.  She was born in Johnstown, PA to the late Geza and Marie Doboy.

Fran was an active member and Eucharistic minister at St. Edward’s Church.  She loved to socialize, and for years, she thoroughly enjoyed volunteering in the office for Hospice of Central Ohio and ushering for the Midland Theatre.  Fran was truly an energetic, loving and caring matriarch who greatly adored her 14 grandchildren and 21 great grandchildren.

Surviving are her sons and son-in-law, Bob (Linda) Morris, Ron (Lauri) Morris, Randy (Alane) Morris, and  Bruce Pannecouk; grandchildren,  Alicia (Paul), Celeste (Nicholas), Allen (Patricia), Michelle (David), Colleen (Daniel), James, John, Peter, Thomas,  Joshua (Rachael), David (Laura), Devon (Melissa), Brittany, and Jenni(Burt); 21 great grandchildren; and sister, Jacqueline Marra.

In addition to her parents, Fran is preceded in death by her daughter, Robin; and siblings, Carl, Bob, Joe and Emma.

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Patricia Ann Stout - Unknown - February 02, 2022

Departed: 02/02/2022 (Granville)

Obituary Preview: Patricia Ann (Shawen) Stout passed away peacefully in her home in Granville, Ohio on February 2, 2022. Ann was born on June 24, 1939 in Toledo, Ohio. She is the daughter of Paul Shawen and Esther (Beck) Shawen. Ann grew up in Perrysburg, Ohio, and went to Ohio State University where she met the love of her life, Emeritus Denison Professor, Dr. Elliott Stout. Ann was the world's best wife, mother and teacher. She taught at Columbus North High School and Granville High School; she loved teaching and her students. Ann traveled the world and made friends everywhere.

Ann leaves behind her daughter, Amy Stout, Amy's partner, Marie Wing-Maher, and their four children, Martin, Ciaran, Brendan and Sean. Ann also leaves behind two honorary grandchildren, Ellie and Liam. Two months before she passed away, Ann stated firmly that she wanted only these words for her obituary: "I want to thank everyone who has helped me, been my friend and made my life worthwhile." We will miss her every day.

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Mary J Baltisberger - Unknown - January 31, 2022

Departed: 01/31/2022 (Granville)

Obituary Preview: Mary Jean Baltisberger died peacefully at home on January 31, 2021, at the age of 85 following several years battle with Parkinson’s Disease.

Born on October 10, 1936 in Gallipolis, Ohio, to parents George and Eleanor Tabit, she grew up in Gallipolis, OH. She graduated from Gallia Academy High School where she was popular with her friends.   She went to Wittenberg College in Springfield OH where she graduated with a BS degree in Medical Technology in 1957.

She began her working years in the laboratory at Miami Valley Hospital.   She was living with friends from work when she found difficulty because of her allergy to cats when a roommate brought a cat into their home. She moved to a sperate apartment in Dayton where she met her future husband, Richard Baltisberger. They moved to North Dakota in 1968 when Richard became a professor at the University of North Dakota. Mary Jean and Richard were active members of St. Paul’s Episcopal Church in Grand Forks until they moved to Newark in 2001 for retirement. They remained true to each other for over fifty-seven years.

Together with her husband, they raised two boys and cherished their five grandchildren and one great granddaughter. Mary enjoyed exercise and convinced her husband to engage in numerous outdoor activities including biking and walking around Grand Forks ND where they lived. There were also lots of trips to Northern Minnesota for cross country skiing and biking on old railroad lines in the Park Rapids area of Minnesota.  Richard got her interested in his hobby of fishing at Lake of the Woods in Canada near their Grand Forks home.  She became an excellent walleye fisher where she took up the art of jigging for slow biting fish. Both her and Richard were avid gardeners and got their Master Gardener certificates while in North Dakota.  She will lovingly be remembered for her broad-mindedness, willingness to help others, her kindness, non-judgmental and gentle nature.  However, she was an excellent bridge player that could beat you in duplicate bridge.  Mary and Richard loved traveling all over the National Parks in the west.  Also travelled to France, Greece and Switzerland and numerous Elderhostel adventures in the USA.  She will be greatly missed by her family.

Surviving is her husband, Richard; son Richard and Jane Baltisberger of Granville; Grandchildren Jacob, Zach, Anna; Granddaughter Sarah and Justin Machamer of Newark OH with great granddaughter Jozie; son Jay Baltisberger and his daughter, Katarina of Lexington, KY; siblings, Margaret Tabit and George and Pat Tabit.

A memorial service celebrating Mary’s life will be held Saturday, February 19 at 1:00 PM at St. Luke’s Episcopal Church, 107 East Broadway, Granville OH.

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Terry M Hollinger - Unknown - January 12, 2022

Departed: 01/12/2022 (Granville)

Obituary Preview: Join us. Leave your fields to flower. Join us. Leave your cheese to sour. Join us. Come and waste an hour or two.

Journey. Journey to a spot ex- citing, mystic and exotic. Journey through our anecdotic revue. We've got magic to do just for you. We've got miracle plays to play. We've got parts to perform, hearts to warm, Kings and things to take by storm As we go along our way. “Magic to Do” from Pippin

Terry M Hollinger was born in Salem, Ohio to the late Donald E. and Esther Hollinger. He passed away January 12, 2022 at his home in Granville at the age of 86.

Educated in mathematics, Terry was a graduate of the University of Cincinnati, did his Master’s work at Marshall University, and his Doctorate studies at The Ohio State University. He married fellow UC alumna Chloe Ann Stark in 1956, and together they set out on a life of adventure.

A member of the US Army Reserve, Terry taught at the DOD’s FDR American school in Lima, Perú for two years. Returning to the States, he continued to teach in Groveport, Ohio. Following a 13-year stint as the general manager of WMUL-TV and WMUL-FM in Huntington (where he conducted the first-ever on-air auction), Terry returned to teaching in Van, West Virginia. Lifelong friend Ann Ferguson said that Terry, a gifted teacher, claimed that he could “teach anybody anything.” Ann agrees.

Terry cherished his time in South America, traveled extensively in Perú, sponsored high school clubs at the school, avidly participated in live theater, and entertained American ex pats as the lead singer and guitar player in the vocal trio Los Larks, covering Peter, Paul, and Mary. An eternal thespian, Terry won Best Actor award — the fledgling Peruvian equivalent of an American Tony Award — for his performance in Pajama Game in the 1963-1964 season. Later, he continued in theater, directing and acting in many plays and musicals at the Huntington (WV) Community Players and Ashland (KY) Community Theater. Chris Broquet recalls: I was only 15 when we did Bye, Bye, Birdie, but I remember Terry as being hilarious in this role.

While at WMUL, Terry and his team wrote, directed, acted, produced, edited and aired the multi-episode hillbilly drama Handfuls of Ashes, a story of a poor Appalachian family. It was the first of its kind.

The quintessential storyteller, Terry could spin fantastic and engaging tales on the spot. When he moved into his home on Sunset Drive in Westmoreland, he found an old tintype of a man, framed in a vintage oval wooden frame. The photo maintained its original place on the wall as long as Terry lived there. According to Terry, the photo was of his great uncle George, whose claim to fame was escaping the New River rapids on a goat-bladder raft. Friend Jerry Reveal recalls: He was a teller of tales, a spinner of yarns — whether shared over the dinner table or around the fire with friends or on the stage with an audience. In 1992, Terry was named the Bigger Liar in the State of WV (not the Biggest Liar, which is First Place, but the Bigger Liar, Second Place). He was proud of that. His winning story was about a trainload of post holes that were headed cross country. There was an accident, and when the post holes spilled, it resulted in all our potholes.

During most of his life, Terry had a dog by his side. One of his favorites from childhood was named Wendy, a name he then bestowed on his only daughter.

Terry will be remembered most for his care of others and devotion to his family. Ferguson recalled: We go back to their freshman days at the University of Cincinnati. I used to stay in the dorm where (Terry’s first wife) Chloe Ann lived. I remember being outside that dorm when it was closing time. They sang to each other before the night ended. They had a great life. They met all the challenges with a smile and a song.

Music was one of Terry’s great joys. A percussionist in high school, he went on to play guitar, ukulele, banjo, piano, and bass, and could make do on any number of instruments. He sang with his family (Daddy sang bass, Mama sang alto, Scott sang tenor, and Marshall and Wendy sang lead) and occasionally the whole gang sang gospel songs at church. Terry was widely hailed as the man who single-handedly brought Dr Who to West Virginia Public Broadcasting, an accomplishment he prized. (Note: As Terry was also the Bigger Liar in West Virginia, his family was never entirely certain of the veracity of that claim.) Nephew Sev Maynard says, “To me, Terry was a caregiver and a man of incredible resilience. He was driven to make a change in the world. He took what life gave him and understood that sometimes the biggest impact that we can make starts at home with those around us. I looked up to his ability to be present and accountable for those who have needs beyond their capabilities. We celebrate the life that he lived by striving to pass on the best of his character to those that we interact with daily, understanding that having a tune in your heart or a sense of humor will dramatically increase your resilience in the face of adversity.”

Reveal recalls: The first time I ever laid eyes on Terry he had just taken over as General Manager of the station. He called all of the troops together and gave a speech about how it was his train and if you didn't like it you could get off at the next stop. He scared the hell out of me. It didn't take long, though, until I realized that the speech was nothing like the real Terry. I asked him about that speech some time later, and he told me that he picked it up in Officer Candidate School.

“Terry was always helping people. One of the lessons that he taught me was that sometimes you really don't understand what you see in a person. There were a couple of people that I had totally misjudged. Terry was able to see past those walls that they had and helped me to do the same. “Once in late fall, we were trying to get some final footage before wrapping up a program. Bill McPhee was driving his large ’70s-era Ford, and Terry and I were in the car with him. It really began to snow and if we'd had any sense, we would have turned around and called it a day. Bill gunned the engine and we were fishtailing up a small hill while Terry and I laughed our heads off. When we got to the top of the hill, there was a sudden drop off into a snow bank. We spent a long time waiting to get pulled out while Terry kept our spirits up with lots of tales, as only Terry could do.”

Terry’s first wife, Chloe, was afflicted for many years with lupus. Terry tended to her gently and cared for her unselfishly until her death in 1994. Later, Terry’s second wife, Lana, suffered from a brain tumor. Once again, Terry nursed her patiently until her death in 2002.

Terry was a member of the Disciples of Christ, most recently worshipping at Central Christian Church in Newark, Ohio.

Surviving are his children and their spouses, Scott and Judy Hollinger (McAllen, TX), Marshall and Teresa Hollinger (Palmyra, ME), Wendy Hollinger and Dale Ratcliff (Granville, OH); step daughter, LaRisha Giehl (Groveport, OH); grandchildren, Andrew, Tim, Libby, and Chris; step granddaughter, Cierra; and great grandchildren Peter, Asher, Cogley, and Hank.

In addition to his parents, Terry was preceded in death by his first wife, Chloe Ann Stark Hollinger (1994), his second wife, Lana Lee Hamler Hollinger (2002), and his sister, Donna Hollinger Maynard (2020).

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Stephen J. Chrysler - Unknown - January 12, 2022

Departed: 01/12/2022 (Granville)

Obituary Preview: Stephen Chrysler, 66, passed away on January 12, 2022, while being surrounded by those who loved him.  Over the last eight years, Steve did everything in his power to stop Alzheimer’s from progressing. There are no known survivors of Alzheimer’s, yet.

Steve was born in Frankfort, Germany and was the oldest of six children who were primarily raised in Rochester, Minnesota. He was always up for adventure and studied in Brazil his senior year of high school. He was a graduate and president of his class at St. Thomas University and met the love of his life, Muffy, while getting his Master’s at the University of Wisconsin. He then started his career and family in Green Bay, Wisconsin.

He was the master of planning, logistics and figuring out cost saving measures as he worked for the largest cheese company (Schreiber in Green Bay, Wisconsin), beverage company (Pepsi in Houston, Texas), chip company (Frito Lay in Atlanta, Georgia), pear company (Harry and David in Medford, Oregon and the expansion to Ohio) and pharmaceutical companies (J&J in Rochester, New York and Metuchen, NJ). Along the way he was able to mentor those who needed it and craft relationships with all those around him, which always meant more to him than the money he helped them save.

It was the things at the bottom of his resume and the way he treated all people, even his daughters ex boyfriends, that he will be remembered. Things like being a soccer coach and getting the plans together to build a new soccer complex in the Rogue Valley, being one the first travel soccer coaches in Licking County. No one ever had issues sending half the soccer team with Coach Steve several states away. He could manage it all, that logistics background paid off in all aspects of his life.

He was on the Board of Directors at the Licking County Chamber of Commerce after opening up the Harry and David warehouse and call center. This endeavor proved to be so successful and he helped run Operation Feed for the Licking County Food Bank. He was known for his creative problem solving techniques and always putting the customer first. In his personal life that meant his wife and children.

“God Bless you” was a phrase he heard more than most as his biggest success in life was being the dad to four girls born within five years of each other. While Muffy worked out creative, educational and social endeavors he handled the logistics of daycare, four teenage girls sharing a bathroom, car pools, sharing of cars/clothes, vacations to/from Sunriver, Oregon, moving in and out of dorm rooms, apartments, and creative disciplining.

Steve was the best at staying in touch, being approachable, throwing epic birthday parties for Muffy and genuinely caring about people and his community. He retired in 2014, and made his way back to Granville for a third and final time to spoil grandchildren, his dogs and daughters. In between family trips to ski and the beach he enjoyed bike rides, Pilates, walks, trips to the playground and soccer fields and watching Crew games with the ever accommodating CrewGate Tailgaters.

Steve is preceded in death by his wife of 41 years and fearless caregiver, Muffy, his father, Dale Chrysler, and four beloved dogs (Frito, Daisy, Lily, and Rosie). Steve is survived by his mother, Marian Chrysler (VanBeers), his four children Katie Chrysler, Kelly (Ben) VanBuskirk, Amy (Joe) Garner, Stephanie Chrysler (soon to be Teague)(Eli); and his grandchildren; Jack, Claire, Maya, Julia, Peck, and Heidi; his five siblings, and many loved cousins, friends, and neighbors.

A small private ceremony will be held at Maple Grove Cemetery and on Friday, January 21, 2022 the family will welcome family and friends from 3:00 pm to 5:00 pm with Remembrance speeches starting at 4:00 at McPeek-Hoekstra Funeral Home, 133 S. Prospect St, Granville, Ohio. The family requests masks be worn.

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James M. Kennedy - Unknown - January 11, 2022

Departed: 01/11/2022 (Granville)

Obituary Preview: James Michael Kennedy, 87, of Granville, passed away Tuesday, January 11, 2022 at Licking Memorial Hospital in Newark. He was born in Granville to the late Francis P. and Phyllis Kennedy.

Jim established and served as Chairperson of the Diocesan Foundation of the Catholic Diocese of Columbus, Ohio. He received the PRO ECCLESIA pontifical award from POPE JOHN PAUL II for Mr. Kennedy’s service to the Faith. He served on the Newark Catholic School Board, the Newark Catholic Athletic Association, was a 50 year member of Newark Rotary, chaired the original Newark Catholic Foundation, was a member of the Newark Chamber of Commerce, raised funds for the original Newark Campus of Ohio State University, served on the Salvation Army Board, the Board of Newark Catholic High School, the Newark Catholic Hall of Fame, and adored going to football games both at NC & Ohio State.

Mr. Kennedy was a graduate of Deerfield Academy, Denison University, and the American Institute of Banking.

Professionally, Mr. Kennedy was President of Englefield Oil Company for many years, when Mr. Englefield was Chairman of the Englefield Oil Board. There he served as one of the original board members and treasured his strong friendships, as well as friendships from his Denison University fraternity Phi Gamma Delta. Mr. Kennedy served on the boards of County Savings Bank and the Newark Trust Company.

Jim enjoyed attending St. Edward the Confessor Catholic Church beside his childhood home in Granville, Ohio and loved his grandchildren’s Masses at St Francis de Sales. When the Kennedy’s were in Naples, Florida he especially cherished St. Agnes Catholic Church with Paul Todd’s choir. He valued the wisdom and scholarship of the Reverend Kitty Clausen when she preached at Trinity Episcopal in Newark.

A vigorous outdoorsman from his youth and horseback rider, Mr. Kennedy was content with the quietness of animals and birds in later years. He felt his life was a blessing. He believed in hard work and will be remembered for his sense of humor, kindness, enthusiasm, and love for family and friends.

Surviving are his wife of 63 years, Mary Susan Leech Kennedy, whom he adored; his three sons, James England Kennedy (Christy Price), Thomas A. Kennedy (Richard Barthelmes), and Francis L. Kennedy (Nikki);  and two grandchildren, Lochlan and Molly Kennedy.

A private graveside service will be held at Welsh Hills Cemetery in Granville. A memorial Mass will be held in late spring at 10:00 A.M. on May 14, 2022 St. Edwards Church, Granville followed by a get together at THE CABIN for friends and family.

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William J Holland - Unknown - January 05, 2022

Departed: 01/05/2022 (Granville)

Obituary Preview: William J. Holland’s life journey began in Newark, Ohio where he was born to the late Ben E. and Helen A. (Hupp) Holland. He passed away Wednesday, January 5, 2022 at his home surrounded by family at the age of 87.

An Army veteran, Bill was a graduate of Ohio Wesleyan University and completed Master’s work at Ohio University and The Ohio State University. During his senior year of college he toured the orient with the Theater Department of Denison University, a memorable experience.  He began his professional career teaching American history at Newark High School in 1962.  In 1975 Bill began working at Newark Air Force Base as a race relations instructor.  He retired after 21 years there, having risen to the position of management analyst. He also had a second career as a caseworker at Moundbuilders Guidance Center.

Together with his wife of 52 years, Cherie, they raised three daughters and cherished their three grandchildren and one great grandson. Bill was a history buff and there wasn’t a fort he didn’t love. He was well read, traveled, and enjoyed a good Buckeye’s game. He will lovingly be remembered for his broad-mindedness, willingness to help others, his kindness, and non-judgmental and gentle nature.

Surviving are his wife, Cherie; daughters and their husbands, Sarah and Glen Brich of Granville, Liza Wheeler and Jeremy Philipps of Newark, and Vanessa and Gar Seigla of Columbus; grandchildren, Olivia and Harrison Brich, and Emma (Isaac) Steinbrecher; and great grandson, Silas William Steinbrecher.

A private inurnment will be held at Maple Grove Cemetery in Granville. A celebration of Bill’s life will be held at a later date at St. Luke’s Church where Bill was a faithful member and previously served as a member of the Vestry.

Memorial contributions may be made to St. Luke’s Church, P.O. Box 82, Granville, OH 43023.

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Joan E Langley - Unknown - December 28, 2021

Departed: 12/28/2021 (Granville)

Obituary Preview: A graveside service will be held for Joan Langley, 88, formerly of Granville, at 10:00 A.M. Saturday, January 8, 2022 at Maple Grove Cemetery in Granville with Rev. Casey Wilson as celebrant.

Joan passed away December 28, 2021 at her home in Oviedo, Florida surrounded by family. She was born in Kingston, Jamaica to the late Daniel J. Miller and Mabel E. Baier.

As a seamstress in Jamaica, she met and married her husband Leonard and moved to Ohio.  Here they raised three children with their fourth child arriving during their years spent in Puerto Rico.  She enjoyed knitting, macrame, and traveling, but most of all she enjoyed spending time with her family, especially her grandchildren.

Joan can be best described as having a warm heart, always offering a kind word and a smile that brought joy to everyone she spent time with.  Joan was a strong and caring wife, mother, and friend. She was a good and faithful servant of God and passed her blessings of joy to her children and grandchildren. She will be greatly missed.

Surviving are her four children and their spouses, Larry and Koreen Langley, Keith Langley, George and Sisa Langley and Carol and Hugh Fain; grandchildren, Michael, Daniel, Isabel, and Kayla; nephew, Donald.

In addition to her parents, Joan was preceded in death by her husband of 64 years, Leonard R Langley who died January 19, 2021; and her three sisters.

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D. Jayne Latiolais - Unknown - December 24, 2021

Departed: 12/24/2021 (Granville)

Obituary Preview: A graveside service for Desiree Jayne Latiolais will be held at 1:00 P.M. on Saturday, January 15, 2022 at Maple Grove Cemetery in Granville.

Jayne passed away December 24, 2021 at The James in Columbus at the age of 93. She was born in Natchitoches, Louisiana to the late Cynthia and Archie Breazeale, Sr.

After taking up piano at the age of 8, she received her Bachelor of Arts Degree in Piano at the University of Louisiana at Lafayette in 1948, her Master's Degree in Composition from LSU in Baton Rouge in 1950, and completed coursework toward her Ph.D in Music Theory at both the University of Michigan The Ohio State University. She taught private music lessons from age 18 to 91, and along the way taught at Denison University’s Music Department.  She was active is the music teaching community during her years in Granville, and served as President of both the Ohio Music Teachers Association (OMTA), and the Music Teacher's National Association (MTNA).

After the passing of her husband Clifton in 1995, she moved to Albuquerque, NM in 1998 at the age of 70 and began a new life out west.  She continued teaching piano from her home in Sandia Park and again built her reputation as a music teacher.  While there, she was a member of the Music Teachers of New Mexico, and served as President of the Albuquerque Music Teachers Association. Although her life’s passion was music, she never regretted placing her family first and was gratified to be a mother.  Her love and dedication to family always came first.

Jayne loved flowers and gardening, as well as cooking, which she enjoyed all her life.  In later years she loved both cooking and dining out in her favorite restaurants.  She was blessed to have her children with her in last days.  As a woman of Christian faith, she had no fear of passing, and was at great peace in her final hours.

Surviving are her children and their spouses, Clifton Latiolais, Jr., Cynthia and Richard Pope, Marc Latiolais, Paul and Karen Latiolais, and Lance Latiolais; grandchildren and their spouses, Heather, Heidi (Tim), Andrew (Lydia), Hannah (Steve), Aaron, Sarah (Ben), Rachael (Josh), and Rebecca; and 14 great grandchildren.

In addition to her parents, Jayne was preceded in death by her husband, Clifton J. Latiolais, Sr.; son, Greg; and brother, Archie Breazeale, Jr.

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Jack W Durham - Unknown - December 22, 2021

Departed: 12/22/2021 (Granville)

Obituary Preview: Jack W. Durham died peacefully at home on December 22, 2021, at the age of 90, following a brief illness.

Born in East Liverpool, OH, to parents Everett and Gladys Durham, he grew up in Georgetown, PA and Newell, WV. He graduated from Wells High School where he was popular with his friends and a 3-sport star. He went to Mt. Union College in Alliance, OH, and became a standout football halfback and captain of the baseball team. He graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Math in 1953 and in that summer met the love of his life Miriam, before entering the army. They were married on May 11, 1954.

He served one year in Korea and began his career teaching high school math in Wellsville, OH before leaving to become an engineer with Western Electric in Columbus, Ohio, and then moving to Reynoldsburg, OH and finally Granville, OH where they raised a family of 5 kids.

Living in Granville for 54 years, he enjoyed his passions for gardening, photography, winemaking with friends, and worldwide travel. Jack shared his love for the outdoors, taking his family on numerous camping trips throughout the country. Always into physical activity, he taught his children the value of hard work and competing (“pain feels good”) and learning to play multiple sports, especially the traditional family “turkey” bowl football game every Thanksgiving where he was “all-time” quarterback well into his late 60’s.

He retired early from Western Electric and continued his commitment to family often babysitting and playing games with his grandchildren, taking them on tractor rides around the yard, and sharing his life through his musical slide shows.

Jack is survived by his wife, Miriam E. Durham (67 years), of Granville, OH, and children David J. Durham (Penny) of Gaithersburg, MD, Susan K. Sedlak (Ned) of Palm Coast, FL, Timothy S. Durham (Lisa), Granville, OH, John R. Durham of Pickerington, OH, Jack C. Durham (Laurie) Newark, OH. He is also survived by fifteen grandchildren: Kathryn Sullivan (Devin), Peter Durham, Emily Reif (Zach), Ned Sedlak (Maureen), Allyson Sedlak, Julie Boehm (Chris), Jeaneen Durham, Lauren Barasky (Justin), Richard Durham (Jordan), Jessica Kain (Ben), Joshua Durham, Hannah Durham, Jack Durham (Nicole), Annie Durham, and William Durham. Eleven great grandchildren Avery and Charlotte Sullivan, Violet Sedlak, Ryan, Cooper and Charlie Boehm, Henry and Elizabeth Barasky, Lincoln Durham, Addison and Roman Kain.

He is predeceased by his sister, Eleanor Shaw (Pete), and is survived by his sister Barbara Penman (Tom).

He will be deeply missed by his family and friends.

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A Commitment to Excellence

At McPeek-Hoekstra Funeral Home, excellence is not just a goal – it's a standard. The funeral home's team of experienced professionals is committed to providing exceptional service, ensuring that every family receives the care and attention they deserve. From the initial consultation to the final farewell, the staff at McPeek-Hoekstra Funeral Home is dedicated to creating meaningful, personalized tributes that celebrate the lives of those who have passed.

Personalized Funeral Services

Every life is unique, and every funeral should be too. At McPeek-Hoekstra Funeral Home, the staff understands that no two families are alike, and that each deserves a customized approach to honoring their loved one. From traditional funeral services to cremation ceremonies, memorial gatherings, and beyond, the funeral home offers a range of options designed to meet the distinct needs and preferences of each family.

A Facility Designed for Comfort and Convenience

The McPeek-Hoekstra Funeral Home facility is a warm and welcoming space, carefully designed to provide comfort and convenience for families during their time of need. The funeral home's chapel is equipped with state-of-the-art audiovisual technology, ensuring that every service is both dignified and memorable. Ample parking, wheelchair accessibility, and comfortable seating areas further enhance the overall experience, allowing families to focus on what matters most – celebrating the life of their loved one.

Pre-Planning: A Gift to Your Loved Ones

While discussing funeral arrangements can be difficult, pre-planning can be a thoughtful gesture that brings peace of mind to both you and your loved ones. At McPeek-Hoekstra Funeral Home, the staff is happy to guide you through the pre-planning process, helping you make informed decisions about your final wishes while ensuring that your family is protected from unnecessary emotional and financial burdens.

Grief Support and Resources

Losing a loved one is never easy, but having access to supportive resources can make a world of difference. McPeek-Hoekstra Funeral Home recognizes that grief is a journey, not an event, and offers a range of support services designed to help families navigate their emotions in the days, weeks, and months following their loss. From bereavement counseling to online grief resources, the funeral home is committed to providing ongoing support when it's needed most.

A Community Partner

McPeek-Hoekstra Funeral Home is more than just a funeral home – it's an integral part of the Granville community. Through its involvement in local organizations, charitable initiatives, and educational programs, the funeral home demonstrates its commitment to giving back and making a positive impact on the lives of those around them.

Contact Us

If you're seeking a trusted partner in your time of need, look no further than McPeek-Hoekstra Funeral Home. Located at 133 South Prospect Street in Granville, Ohio, with a mailing address of P.O. Box 185, Granville, OH 43023, our doors are always open to those seeking comfort, guidance, and support. Contact us today to learn more about our services or to schedule a consultation with one of our experienced professionals.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an obituary?

An obituary is a written notice that announces the death of a person, typically including their name, age, date of birth and death, and a brief biography. It may also include information about their family, accomplishments, and any notable achievements.

What is the purpose of an obituary?

The primary purpose of an obituary is to inform friends, family, and community members of a person's passing and to provide details about their life and legacy. It also serves as a way to share condolences and celebrate the person's life.

Who writes an obituary?

Obituaries are typically written by family members, close friends, or funeral home staff. In some cases, a professional obituary writer may be hired to craft the notice.

What information should be included in an obituary?

A typical obituary includes the person's name, age, date of birth and death, place of residence, occupation, education, hobbies, and surviving family members. It may also include information about their military service, awards, or other notable achievements.

How long should an obituary be?

The length of an obituary can vary depending on the publication and the individual's life story. Generally, it should be concise and to the point, ranging from 100 to 500 words.

Can I include photos in an obituary?

Yes, many publications allow you to include one or more photos with the obituary. This can be a great way to personalize the notice and help readers connect with the person who has passed away.

How do I submit an obituary to a newspaper or online publication?

Each publication has its own submission process. You can usually find guidelines on the publication's website or by contacting their obituary department directly. Be prepared to provide the necessary information and payment for the notice.

How much does it cost to publish an obituary?

The cost of publishing an obituary varies widely depending on the publication, word count, and other factors. Expect to pay anywhere from $50 to $1,000 or more for a single notice.

Can I write my own obituary?

Yes, some people choose to write their own obituary in advance. This can be a therapeutic exercise and ensure that your life story is told in your own words.

What is the difference between an obituary and a death notice?

A death notice is a brief announcement of a person's passing, often including only basic information such as name, age, and date of death. An obituary provides more detailed information about the person's life and legacy.

How do I find old obituaries?

You can search online archives of newspapers and genealogy websites, visit local libraries or historical societies, or contact funeral homes or churches where the person was affiliated.

Can I edit or correct an obituary after it has been published?

In most cases, corrections can be made if errors are found in the original notice. However, this may depend on the publication's policies and deadlines.

What is an online obituary?

An online obituary is a digital version of a traditional printed notice. It may include additional features such as guest books, photo galleries, and condolence messages.

How long do online obituaries remain available?

The duration that online obituaries remain available varies depending on the website or platform. Some may remain accessible indefinitely, while others may be archived or removed after a certain period.

Can I share an obituary on social media?

Yes, many online obituaries can be shared on social media platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, or LinkedIn. This can help spread the news and allow friends and family to pay their respects.

What is a memorial website?

A memorial website is a dedicated online space where friends and family can share memories, photos, and stories about the person who has passed away. It can serve as a lasting tribute to their life and legacy.

How do I create a memorial website?

You can create a memorial website using online platforms such as Legacy.com or MemorialWebsites.com. These services often provide templates and tools to help you design and customize your site.

What is a funeral home's role in creating an obituary?

Funeral homes often assist families in writing and submitting obituaries to newspapers and online publications. They may also provide guidance on what information to include and how to structure the notice.

Can I include charitable donations in an obituary?

Yes, many families choose to include information about charitable donations in lieu of flowers in the obituary. This can be a meaningful way to honor the person's memory and support a worthy cause.

How do I handle sensitive or private information in an obituary?

If there are sensitive or private aspects of the person's life that you prefer not to disclose publicly, it's best to omit them from the obituary or discuss them with family members before publishing.

Can I use humor in an obituary?

Yes, incorporating humor into an obituary can be a fitting way to celebrate the person's personality and spirit. Just be sure to balance humor with respect and dignity.

How do I ensure accuracy when writing an obituary?

To ensure accuracy, verify facts with multiple sources whenever possible. Double-check dates, names, and other details before submitting the notice for publication.

What if I need help writing an obituary?

If you're struggling to write an obituary or need guidance on what to include, consider consulting with a funeral home staff member or professional writer who specializes in crafting these notices.

Can I republish an obituary at a later date?

In some cases, you may want to republish an obituary on significant anniversaries or special occasions. Check with the original publication for their policies on reprinting notices.

How do I preserve an original copy of the obituary?

You can save a physical copy of the printed newspaper or keep a digital copy on your computer or cloud storage service. You may also want to consider framing or laminating the original notice as a keepsake.