Marcy Mortuary, 104 N 15th Street, Ashland, NE (2026)

04/07/2026

John L. Reid, 81, of Ashland, NE, entered into rest on Saturday, April 4, 2026 at Saunders Medical Center LTC in Wahoo, NE. He was born December 17, 1944 in Council Bluffs, IA to John S. and Roberta M. (Miller) Reid.

John owned and operated the Ben Franklin – Reid’s Variety Store and the Ashland Pharmacy for many years. He was a member of the American Legion Post #129 for over 60 years, Word of Hope Lutheran Church and George Washington Lodge #250 AF & AM Masonic Lodge. John loved driving his clean car and he enjoyed dancing.

He is survived by sons, Brian (Shelli) Reid of Lincoln, NE and Aaron (Lori) Reid of Elkhorn, NE; grandchildren, Courtney (Estavan) Garcia, Travis (Emily) Reid, Tayler Reid, Jack Reid, Colton Laub and Nick Reid; great-grandchildren, Addilyn Weeden, Tatum Reid and Tanner Reid; sister, Emily Sharp; significant other, Linda Fox; many other family members and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, John S. and Roberta M. Reid; sister, Dianna Howland; brothers-in-law, Jerry Sharp and Phillip Howland.

Celebration of Life, Friday (4/10/2026) 10:30 a.m. at Word of Hope Lutheran Church, 157 S. 22nd St., Ashland, NE.
Officiant, Pastor Wilson Metz.
Visitation, Thursday (4/9/2026) 5:00-7:00 p.m. all at Church.
Interment at Ashland Cemetery, Ashland, NE.

Memorials to Saunders County Lost Pets or Alzheimer’s Association.
Visit www.marcysvoboda.com to leave condolences.

Marcy Mortuary
104 N. 15th Street
Ashland, NE 68003
402-944-3343

04/06/2026

Patricia “Pat” A. Proctor, 90, of Ashland, NE, entered into eternal rest on Friday, April 3, 2026 at Oxbow Living Center in Ashland, NE. She was born March 17, 1936 in Wahoo, NE to Bohumil F. and Mabel (Criswell) Pacula. She was raised on a farm two miles north of Memphis, NE with her first three years of schooling at District 6 country school. The next five years were at St. Wenceslaus Catholic School in Wahoo, NE. She later attended Ashland High School where she met Jerry Proctor. They were married one year after graduating from high school. Two children were born in the next three years: Catherine Ann and David Lee.

Most of their married life was spent in the Ashland area except for a year and a half living in Omaha when Jerry started working for Western Electric. Pat and her mother Mabel owned the Silver Smart Shop, a dress shop on Silver Street for 10 years in the 60’s until Pat’s dad suffered many strokes. From 1970-1990, Pat worked for Bill Sapp at the Sapp Bros. Truckstop and for Bethesda Care Centers (five years as an administrator in Gretna and five years as a bookkeeper in Ashland).

Pat and Jerry were married for 54 years, until Jerry passed away in 2008 after a lengthy illness. They traveled to many places from 1990-2000. Prior to Jerry’s health failing, they enjoyed company, fishing, sightseeing and visiting family.

Pat and Jerry were members of St. Mary Catholic Church, where Pat served as a pianist and choir member for many years. She was a member of the Altar Society, serving as President three times and still helped on the funeral committee. In years past, Pat was a member of Jr. Women’s Club, serving as President the year girls softball was established in Ashland. She was a 4-H leader, Cub Scout den mother and a Brownie leader for the Girl Scouts. Pat grew up with horses and as a family the Saddle Club and horse 4-H took up a large part of the early years.

Pat and Jerry enjoyed playing cards and Pat still enjoyed bridge and pitch often, helping with games at Oxbow Living Center and the care center. She also has been Ombudsman for the state visiting residents at both facilities. Pat was a member of the Ashland Garden Club, former extension club, Red Hat Group, Bunco Players and Friendship Club. She has always had pets, and Chiquita and Chihuahua were still allowed to live with her in her home.
She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Jerry; son, David; and grandson, Austin.

She is survived by her daughter, Catherine Ann; grandchildren, Kaitlin and David; three great-granddaughters; many cousins, nieces and nephews.

Pat will be remembered for her kindness, her strong sense of community, and the many friendships she cherished throughout her life.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to all who loved and cared for Pat over the years. She truly treasured each and every one of you.

Mass of Christian Burial, Tuesday (4/7/2026) 10:30 a.m. at St. Mary Catholic Church, 1625 Adams St., Ashland, NE.
Celebrant, Fr. Robert Matya.
Visitation, Tuesday 9:30-10:30 a.m. all at the Church.
Interment at Ashland Cemetery, Ashland, NE.

Memorials to the Ashland Rescue Squad.
Visit www.marcysvoboda.com to leave condolences.

Marcy Mortuary
104 N. 15th Street
Ashland, NE 68003
402-944-3343

03/30/2026

Jodi Lynn Gray, 55 of Greenwood, NE passed away Saturday, March 28, 2026. She was born November 27, 1970 in Lincoln, NE to James and Deborah (Morris) Smith. She graduated from Ashland-Greenwood High School in 1989 and attended the College of St. Mary in Omaha, NE. She was united in marriage to John L. Gray in 1988. From this union four children were born, Colby, Brittany, Tiffany and Taylor.

Jodi was a devoted mother, loving grandmother, hard worker and an animal lover. She loved spending time and spoiling her grandchildren. She enjoyed taking her grandchildren fishing, getting ice cream, and shopping at the candy store.

Jodi is survived by her children, Colby, Brittany, Tiffany and Taylor Gray; grandchildren, Rylan, Everli, Elijah, Cyrus, Zaliegh Mylo and Rory; grand dog, Baki; mother, Deborah (Steven) Johnson; father, Jim (Nancy) Smith; siblings, Christy (Carl) Von Rentzell, Chance (Rachel) Otto and René Smith; many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husband, John Gray; grandparents, Shirley Richell, Forrest Smith, Zolo Smith, Lois Smith and Ed Morris.

A private graveside service will be held.

Memorial in care of the family.
Visit www.marcysvoboda.com to leave condolences.

Marcy Mortuary
104 N. 15th Street
Ashland, NE 68003

03/23/2026

Martha Nelle (Owen) Holman
February 2, 1947 – March 20, 2026

Martha Nelle (Owen) Holman, 79, passed away on March 20, 2026.
Martha was born on February 2, 1947, in Lincoln, Nebraska, to Virgil and Nellie Owen and was raised in Ashland, Nebraska. From an early age, she stood out for her intellect and determination, graduating as valedictorian of her high school class. She went on to earn degrees in theology, music performance, and music education—pursuits that reflected both her deep faith and her lifelong love of learning.

She was united in marriage to David Holman, with whom she built a life centered on faith and family.

Martha lived with a quiet strength, steady positivity, and a deep sense of gratitude. She was not one to complain, choosing instead to meet life with resilience, humor, and grace. Her warmth was unmistakable—she made friends easily, and drew people to her with her optimism, joy, and beautiful smile.

Above all, Martha loved her children deeply. She is lovingly remembered by her children: Ginger Calkins; Kari Foote (Luke); and Anne Weins (Jesse). Her love for them was constant and unwavering, and it remains a lasting part of her legacy.
Martha’s life was marked by creativity and service. Her career reflected her many talents—she worked as a legal secretary, a teacher of music and German, a newspaper reporter and editor, and an accountant. In each role, she brought intelligence, curiosity, and care.

Her faith was a cornerstone of her life. A gifted pianist, Martha shared her music generously, serving her churches and congregations in ways that uplifted and inspired others. She was also a devoted student of theology and a voracious reader, often joking that buying books and reading them were two entirely different hobbies.

She found joy in both simple pleasures and creative pursuits. She loved music, sewing, knitting, and time spent with her dogs. She delighted in crime dramas—especially British murder mysteries—and never passed up a good slice of cheesecake. Her sense of humor and lightness of spirit brought joy to those around her.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Virgil and Nellie Owen; her siblings, Raymond Owen, Clarence Owen, Wilma Lowell, and Verna Polvado; her husband, David Holman; her son, Eric Holman; her grandson, DJ Foote; and her granddaughter, Abigail Foote.
Martha will be remembered for her deep faith, her gentle strength, her unwavering positivity, and the love she gave so freely to her family. She leaves behind a legacy of warmth, resilience, and quiet joy that will continue to live on in all who knew and loved her.

Celebration of Life, Wednesday (3/25/2026) 10:30 a.m. at Marcy Mortuary, Ashland, NE.
Visitation, Wednesday 10:00 – 10:30 a.m. at Marcy Mortuary.
Interment at Ashland Cemetery, Ashland, NE.

Memorials in care of the family.
Visit www.marcysvoboda.com to leave condolences.

Marcy Mortuary
104 N. 15th Street
Ashland, NE 68003
402-944-3343

03/20/2026

Vincent “Vince” Fangman, 85, passed away peacefully in his home, surrounded by family, in Ashland, NE on March 18, 2026. He was born March 25, 1940 to Frank and Hilda Fangman at home in rural Manchester, IA.

Vince married Joan Otterbeck on April 8, 1961 in Cedar Rapids, IA, and they shared nearly 65 years of marriage together. Joan was by his side every step of the way, waking each morning before him to pack his lunch before he headed off to work. Throughout their time together, Vince acknowledged that none of the joys of life would have been possible without her support in his career.

He is survived by his wife Joan; his children Kimberly (Michael) Cornish, Anna (Russ) Curtis, Scott (Lorene) Fangman, and Pamela (Kevin) Stanosheck; his siblings Gerald (Lorraine) Fangman and Vernice Knutsen; and his 13 grandchildren and 8 great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents and his siblings Estelle (Ed) Ruff, James (Emma) Fangman, Mary (Roy) Fangman, Juanita (Don) Laeffelholz, Bernard Fangman, Bernadette Fangman and Theodore (Martie) Fangman.

Vince began his career as a farmer before joining Seedorff Masonry Inc. in Strawberry Point, IA as a laborer. Through hard work and dedication, he worked his way up to become a skilled bricklayer, eventually managing many jobs throughout Iowa. In 1985, he and his family relocated to Nebraska for work, and in 1990 he was promoted to field superintendent. Vince was known as a perfectionist who gave everything to his craft throughout his career, and took great pride in founding a masonry legacy spanning three generations, carried on by his son Scott and son-in-law Mike, and continued into the third generation by his grandsons Justin and Alex.

In his retirement, he enjoyed snowbirding to Texas with Joan, refurbishing old tractors, and spending time with his grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and puppies. Above all, Vince's proudest moments in life were the people around him, from the great crew at Seedorff to the family he and Joan built together.

www.marcysvoboda.com

03/17/2026

Samantha Jo Pritchett
March 6, 1995 – March 15, 2026
Samantha Jo Pritchett, known affectionately as "Sammy Jo" to those who loved her, passed away on March 15, 2026, in Bellevue, Nebraska. Born on March 6, 1995, in Omaha to Michelle (Kasuske) and John Pritchett, Sam brought a vibrant energy and a deep sense of empathy into the world from the very beginning.

Service Information
Funeral Service: Saturday, March 21, 2026, at 11:00 AM
Location: American Lutheran Church, Ashland, NE
Visitation: Friday, March 20, 2026, 5:00 – 7:00 PM at Marcy Mortuary and Saturday, 9:30 – 11:00 AM at American Lutheran Church

Education and Passion
A 2013 graduate of Papillion South High School and the Henry Doorly Zoo Academy, Sam’s education reflected her lifelong passion for the natural world. She was truly at home when she was outdoors or working with animals. Whether she was laboring as a ranch hand or training horses, her connection to her animals was profound. Beyond her love for the outdoors, Sam cherished the time spent with her family, especially during their weekly traditions. Sunday dinners at Me-Maw’s house were a highlight of her week, filled with the comfort of her grandma’s home-cooked food and the lively energy of a full house. Whether they were gathered around the table for a meal or competitive rounds of Farkle, those afternoons were defined by constant laughter and the making of countless memories that her family will forever hold dear.

Survivors and Preceded in Death
Sam is survived by her devoted parents, Michelle and John Pritchett; her "Me-Maw," Shirley Kasuske; and her three loyal dogs, Takota, Lincoln, and Penny. Her memory will also be cherished by a large and loving extended family, including many aunts, uncles, and cousins who were a constant part of her life.

She was preceded in death by her grandpa, Ken Kasuske; her uncle, Arlin Kasuske; and her cherished animals, bulldog Chompy and quarter horse Mabel.

Memorials
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to the family for future designation.

Visit www.marcysvoboda.com to leave condolences.

Marcy Mortuary
104 N. 15th Street
Ashland, NE 68003
402-944-3343

03/11/2026

Thomas Joe Stewart, 83 of Ashland, NE passed away Tuesday, March 3, 2026 at Oxbow Living Center in Ashland. He was born May 26, 1942 in Salina, KS to Warren M. and Betty June (Michon) Stewart. He was a graduate of Lincoln High School. Thomas was united in marriage to Wanda Lee Thompson on June 16, 1961 in Iowa. From this union four children were born, Debbie, Jon, Jennifer, and Karen. He owned and operated Stewart Trucking and Pallets.

Tom is survived by his wife of 64 years, Wanda Stewart; children, Debbie (Dave) Finke, Jon (Jenn) Stewart, Jennifer (Jim) Scurto, Karen Walker; grandchildren, Seth & Aaron Brown, Tyler & Jake Finke, Kyle & Olivia Stewart, Connor Neimeyer, James & Mckenzie Scurto, Sierra & Lauren Walker; seven great-grandchildren; sister, Phyllis Cyriacks.
He was preceded in death by countless friends and family.

Zoom Funeral, Saturday, March 28, 2026 at 2:00 pm.
Meeting ID: 884 7373 1827
Password: Heb10:25

Visit www.marcysvoboda.com to leave condolences.
Marcy Mortuary
104 N. 15th Street
Ashland, NE 68003
402-944-3343

02/25/2026

Judy L. Sanders, 79, of Ashland, NE, entered into rest on Tuesday, February 24, 2026 at her home in Ashland, NE. She was born August 16, 1946 in Wann, NE. Judy graduated from Ashland High School in 1965.

On November 22, 1966, Judy was married to Jim Sanders in Corpus Christi, TX. She had a 30-year career working for First Data Resources. Judy enjoyed puzzles, couponing, her beloved cats and garage sales.

She is survived by her husband of 59 years, Jim Sanders; children, Cassie (Miguel Hernandez) Gomez, Michael (Lisa) Sanders, Brian (Wendy) Sanders and Lisa (Chad) Barton; grandchildren, Cody and Carly Gomez, Hailey Hernandez, Hannah (Tristan) Hilger, Rebecca Holmes, Lauren Holmes, Athan, Rylan, Hayden and Nevan Sanders, Austin and Abby Barton; great-grandchildren, Raelyn, Scarlett and Karson Hilger; many other family members and friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents; sister, Mary Leibert.

Funeral Service, Tuesday (3/3/2026) 10:30 a.m. at Marcy Mortuary, Ashland, NE.
Officiant, Pastor Wilson Metz.
Visitation, Monday (3/2/2026) 5-7 p.m. at Marcy Mortuary.
Interment at Omaha National Cemetery, Omaha, NE.

Memorials in care of the family for future designation.
Visit www.marcysvoboda.com to leave condolences.

Arrangements by Marcy Mortuary, Ashland, NE

02/24/2026

Darlene A. Wills, 91 of Lincoln, NE passed away Sunday, February 22, 2026 at The Grace Space Assisted Living in Lincoln, NE. She was born July 12, 1934 in Bee, NE to Frank and Frances (Krenk) Moravec. She graduated from Wahoo High School in 1951. On September 21, 1957 she was united in marriage to Carl Wills at First Christian Church in Ashland, NE. The couple lived in Lincoln for over 50 years. She was a homemaker and loved to decorate cakes and garden.

Darlene is survived by her children, Craig (Carol Knowles) Wills of Rockport, MA, Kevin Wills of Omaha, NE, Jodi (Chuck) Kant of Lincoln, NE, Sue (Jason) Graff of Lincoln, NE; grandchildren, Mitchell Wills, Jacob (Jordan) Graff, Laurel Wills and Sydney (Benjamin) Works; great-grandchild, Brecken, Maesyn, Rush & Neva; sister, Jeri Fleming; sister-in-law, Bev Moravec; many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Frank and Frances Moravec; husband, Carl Wills; two brothers & two sisters.

Graveside Service, Thursday (2/26/26) 2:00 pm at Ashland Cemetery.
Visitation, Thursday 1:00 – 2:00 pm at Marcy Mortuary in Ashland, NE

Memorials to The Grace Space and Traditions Health Hospice.
Visit www.marcysvoboda.com to leave condolences.

Marcy Mortuary
104 N. 15th Street
Ashland, NE 68003
402-944-3343

02/09/2026

Jerry Lee Newsham was born on February 2, 1941 to George and Genevieve Newsham. He joined brother Dale and sister Norma, ages 19 and 13, and from that day on he was known as “The Little General”. Jerry grew up on the family’s farm west of Ashland and attended District #41. He graduated from Ashland High School with the Class of 1958. Upon graduation, Jerry attended Milford Trade School and was a member of the Air National Guard in Lincoln, serving as a mechanic working on planes. His true passion was for the land. Jerry started farming in 1962 and while he also had a hog operation and many cattle over the years, his true love was for raising crops and was always looking for opportunities to diversify and grow. He married Roberta Jeanne Leesley on June 6, 1964. They were married for 38 years before her passing in 2002. Together they had two daughters, Leigh-Ann Kay and Stephanie Jo. Stephanie Jo entered eternal rest one day after her birth.

Jerry and Janice (Wigle) Newsham were married on May 31, 2003 and shared almost 23 years of marriage together. Jerry and Jan continued in the farming operation together until 2023 and Jerry’s official retirement.

Outside of the farming operation, Jerry served in many roles over the years. Jerry and Tom Sherman owned and operated Cedar Ridge Spraying Service from 1987-2004. He was a member of the District #110 School Board, member of the Green Township Board, Cedar Hill Church Board, President of the Board for Farmers Mutual United Insurance company in Wahoo and was a member of both the Nebraska Soybean Board and Nebraska Wheat Board. Jerry also received his 50-year membership=pin from the United Methodist Church.

Jerry is survived by his wife, Jan; daughter Leigh-Ann (Tom) Ochsner; step-children Cindy (Don) Scherer, Don (Kay) Wigle and Ron (Brenda) Wigle. Together they shared 11 grandchildren and 18 great grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews, all of which he loved dearly.

He is preceded in death by his first wife Bobbie, infant daughter Stephanie Jo, parents George and Genevieve Newsham; brother and sister-in law Dale and Nerine Newsham; sister and brother-in-law Norma and Raymond Richard; stepson Rick Wigle.

Funeral Service, Wednesday at 10:00 a.m. at Riverview Community Church
Visitation, Tuesday from 5:00-7:00 p.m. at Riverview Community Church
Interment in Ashland Cemetery, Ashland, Nebraska.

www.marcysvoboda.com for condolences.

Marcy Mortuary
104 N 15th Street
Ashland, NE 68003
402-944-3343

01/28/2026

Melvin E. Bundy, 94 of Gretna, NE passed away peacefully on January 23, 2026 at Brookestone Meadows. He was born August 22, 1931 in Omaha, NE to Floyd W. and Gladys I. (Sowards) Bundy. He was a 1949 graduate of Ashland High School, and then married Delores L. Goff on July 23, 1949 in Lincoln, NE. From this union, four children were born, Steven, Randall, Vickee and Karen. Delores and Mel raised their family on a farm near Gretna.

They chose to live on the farm property that was homesteaded by his grandfather in the late 1890’s. He and his brother Robert joined their father in growing the Bundy farm legacy. The farm provided for learning, investing in, and creating new ventures. It provided opportunities for teaching his children the value of hard work and dedication in all relationships, whether it be to the land, animals, or people. The cattle feeding operation was added to the home place by the Bundy’s in the late 50’s and was designed to feed up to 1000 head. In addition to cattle, the farm had a milk cow, hogs, sheep, goats, rabbits, chickens, dogs and cats through the years. They raised corn, soybeans, hay and managed the land. He was joined by his son (Randy) and grandson (Ryan) in continuing the Bundy Farm operation.

Mel was baptized in the First Christian Church in Ashland. He was a member there, serving as an elder, trustee and on the board. He enjoyed his membership in the Saunders County Livestock Association of Nebraska Cattlemen.

He traveled extensively with them. He loved to attend livestock auctions and continued to be involved in buying and trading into his 90’s. In his younger days he enjoyed duck hunting and fishing.
Mel and Delores later divorced and in September of 1983 he married Catherine (Kitty) Welch. He and Kitty enjoyed traveling, Nebraska football and The Omaha Storm Chasers baseball. They attended as many events as possible to watch grandchildren in their activities, from dance recitals to music band performances, Go Cart racing, showing livestock at the fair, graduations, baptisms and weddings.

Mel is survived by his children, Steve Bundy, Randy (Jody) Bundy, Vickee Siemers, and Karen (Phil) Roubal; 2 Step-Children, Terri (Dan) Kleist, and Mike (Kim) Welch; 11 Grandchildren, 8 Step-Grandchildren; 20 Great-Grandchildren, 22 Step Great-Grandchildren and 4 Great- great grandchildren; 12 nieces and nephews and many great-nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Floyd and Gladys Bundy, his brother Robert and Sister-in-law Delores, brother William, wife Kitty, step-son Steven Kent Welch, and Wife Delores L Bundy.

Funeral Service, Saturday (1/31/2026) 10:30 a.m. at First Christian Church, 1702 Boyd St., Ashland, NE.
Officiant, Pastor Bob Schofield.
Visitation, Friday (1/30/2026) 5-7 p.m. at Marcy Mortuary, Ashland, NE.
Interment at Ashland Cemetery, Ashland, NE.

Memorials to Calvin’s Legacy Foundation or Ashland FFA Chapter Scholarship.

Visit www.marcysvoboda.com to leave condolences.

Arrangements by Marcy Mortuary, Ashland, NE

01/23/2026

Wayne Arthur Harpin, age 67, of Ashland, Nebraska, entered into rest at his home on Tuesday, December 16, 2025. He was born on October 12, 1958, in Wahoo, Nebraska, to Carl A. and Eva Denece (Jones) Harpin. Wayne graduated from Ashland High School in 1976.

On January 12, 1980, he married Lorna Penke, and from this marriage, a son, Nicholas Alan Harpin, was born. He dedicated 30 years of service to the City of Lincoln Public Works before his retirement.

Wayne was passionate about sports, both as a competitor and a fan. He spent many years playing slow-pitch softball and enjoyed activities such as basketball, golfing, boating, and skiing. He served as a high school basketball referee for several years and was well known for his extensive knowledge of the sport. Wayne was the go-to person for anyone seeking information about sports facts. Although he enjoyed watching all sports, his favorite teams were the Nebraska Cornhuskers, Green Bay Packers, St. Louis Cardinals, and Los Angeles Lakers. Wayne was known for his warm personality and quick wit and he treasured time spent with his son, Nicholas.
Wayne is survived by his son, Nicholas Harpin of Irving, Texas, and his siblings: Nancy Hamann of Arizona, Kay (Geoff) Marti of Lincoln, Nebraska, David Harpin of Omaha, Nebraska, and Gregg (Amy) Harpin of Texas.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Carl and Eva Denece Harpin and brothers John Harpin and Jim Harpin.
Funeral Service, Friday, January 30, 2026, 11:00 am at Ashland Methodist Church, Ashland, NE.

Visit www.marcysvoboda.com to leave condolences.

Marcy Mortuary
104 N 15th Street
Ashland, NE 68003
402-944-3343

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