Gould Funeral Home

08/08/2025

Virgil Ledger, 85, of Brighton, passed away July 28, 2025. He was born on November 26, 1939, the son of Edward and Margaret Peck Ledger. The youngest and last surviving of their ten children, Virgil grew up on the family farm south of Brighton. He attended a country school in the area and graduated from Fairfield High School in 1958. He married Janet Peck in 1960, and they later divorced. He married Janice Chezum Giberson in 1986.

Virgil farmed and worked as a diesel mechanic in Iowa throughout most of his life. He worked at Hendrickson Implement in Richland, and moved to Sac City in 1974 to work for Dominoe IHC Implement. He moved back to southeast Iowa in 1978 to found and operate Southeast Iowa Diesel Service and Repair in East Pleasant Plain, until he sold the business and retired. He served in the National Guard and was honorably discharged in 1966.

He was a member of SS Joseph and Cabrini church. He enjoyed farming, fishing, hunting (especially raccoon hunting with his sons and nephews), gardening, and fixing tractors and any kind of equipment. He also loved attending the Old Threshers Reunion, and was a Hawkeye fan.

He is survived by his wife Janice, children: Greg (Sarah) Ledger of Brighton, Phil Ledger of Ollie, Lonna Giberson of Brighton, Janie Giberson of Birmingham, and James (Tara) Giberson of North Liberty; grandchildren Tristan Ledger, Elan Ledger, Amanda Nelson, Emma (Brett) Finger, Sydney Snyder, Heather (Jeremy) Rebling, Jessi Crago, Ashley (Trevor) Schultz, Kyle Harris, Brianna Williams, Kiersten Reif, Teagan Sickels, Nevaeh Giberson, Calvin Giberson, and many great grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, siblings and children Pam Ledger, Lisa Harris, and Jason Giberson.

A Catholic wake and vigil will be held on Sunday, August 3, 2025 at 6:00 p.m., beginning with the prayer of the Rosary followed by a service at 6:30 p.m. at SS Joseph and Cabrini Church in East Pleasant Plain. Family members will be available to greet friends following. A funeral mass will be celebrated at SS Joseph and Cabrini Church on Monday, August 4 at 10:00 a.m. Interment of ashes will be held directly following, at St. Joseph Cemetery in East Pleasant Plain. Friends may leave online condolences at www.cranstonfamilyfuneralhome.com.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to; Virgil Ledger Memorial or SSJoseph and Cabrini Church, c/o Greg Ledger, 3121 146th Blvd, Brighton, Iowa 52540; or to SS Joseph and Cabrini Church, PO Box 37, Brighton, Iowa 52540.

08/08/2025

Virgil Ledger 1939 - 2025

06/30/2025

Roland D. Wray 1932 - 2025

06/30/2025

Roland D. Wray Obituary

Roland Dale Wray, 92, peacefully passed away in his sleep on Tuesday, June 24, 2025, at Halcyon House in Washington, Iowa. Born on Nov. 27, 1932, in Adams County, Iowa, Roland’s early years on the family farm instilled in him the virtues of hard work and community. Graduating from Lenox High School (1950), Roland attended Creston Iowa Junior College before serving in the U.S. Army (1953 to 1955).

While stationed in Germany, he discovered a passion for sports while managing the gym and athletic activities on base. He pursued this newfound interest at McPherson College (McPherson, Kans.), earning his bachelor’s degree in education and playing on the McPherson Hall of Fame Football Team until aging out and becoming a team trainer. At McPherson, he also met his future wife—fellow student Patsy Schechter. The two married on Dec. 23, 1957.

Roland’s career took the family across Iowa—with stops in Lenox, Sidney, State Center (West Marshall), Exira and Packwood (where he taught and coached for many years at Pekin High School)—as well as to Greeley, Colo. Along the way, they welcomed three children: Lori, Tom and Jean. He completed his Master of Education at Northwest Missouri State (Maryville, Mo.), taught myriad subjects and coached football, basketball, baseball and track.

Coach Wray was regarded by all as consistent, fair and disciplined. With Roland, you knew what you were going to get. He made time for everybody, could be counted on to do the right thing and habitually went above and beyond, including mowing the ball field with a hand mower despite a full course load to teach!

Returning to Kansas in 1985, Roland coached at McPherson—his alma mater—and later, several high schools and junior highs. After retirement Roland and Patsy moved to Ozark, Mo., where Roland continued substitute teaching, frequented home games by the Springfield-Ozark Mountain Ducks and spoiled his shadow: their wily rat terrier, Sophie. They traveled the country, volunteering on numerous mission trips, and went on several trips abroad. In 2006, after Patsy was diagnosed with terminal illness, Roland and Patsy moved back to Iowa, closer to family. After Patsy passed in 2009, Roland could regularly be found at Loriann’s in Richland, shootin’ the breeze over a meal and driving his little white pick up all over the countryside.

Roland was a lifelong sports enthusiast of all levels, lover of country and bluegrass music and member of the Lions Club, Fellowship of Christian Athletes and the Methodist Church. Economical in his use of words, he was known for his quiet, dry wit. For his children, words of encouragement were offered when most needed. Mr. Wray “isms” are still brought up by past coworkers, friends and students.

Roland is survived by his children, Lori (Greg) Krewson of Flower Mound, Texas, Thomas (Lori) Wray of Rocklin, Cali., and Jean (Clark) Yoder of Washington, Iowa; six grandchildren, Jenna (Joshua) White of San Diego, Cali., Jeff Krewson of Flower Mound, Texas, Grady (Sara) Wray and Zackary Wray (Caitlyn) of Lincoln, Cali., Gabriel Yoder of Jackson, Mo., and Joshua Yoder (Amanda) of Tiffen, Iowa; two great grandchildren, Adrian White and Kaia Yoder, all of whom he loved dearly.

Roland was preceded in death by his parents, D. Leo and Florence Wray; his wife, Patsy Wray, and a sister, Marilyn Coffey.

A celebration of Roland's life will take place Saturday, July 12, 2025, at 11 a.m. at Prairie View Church, 27131 Iowa 78, Ollie, Iowa, 52576. Visitation will begin at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, July 12, 2025, and will last until the time of service. A private burial will be held at Richland Friends Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be directed to McPherson College Athletic Department, Pekin Sports Booster or Iowa REACH. Donations can be mailed to 2855 Hwy. 1, Washington, Iowa, 52353. Friends may leave online condolences at www.cranstonfamilyfuneralhome.com.

As we say goodbye to Roland, we are reminded of the countless lives he touched as a teacher, coach, father and friend. His legacy will live on in the many lessons he taught, both in the classroom and beyond.

06/16/2025

Geraldine Ann Weber Obituary

Geraldine "Gerri" Ann (Kurtz) Weber, 85, of Mt. Pleasant, Iowa passed away on Tuesday, June 10th. A rosary service will begin at 10:00 am on Saturday, June 28th at St. Joseph Catholic Church in East Pleasant Plain, Iowa, with a Mass of Christian Burial and luncheon immediately following. Burial will be at Elm Grove Cemetery in Washington, Iowa. Friends may leave online condolences at www.cranstonfamilyfuneralhome.com.

Gerri was born on February 9, 1940. She was the adopted daughter of Myron Herman and Agnes Magdalena (Drish) Kurtz. Gerri grew up in the Pleasant Plain and Brighton area. She attended Ottumwa Heights Academy. Gerri graduated from the Academy in 1957 and went on to graduate from the Ottumwa Heights College in 1959.

She married Erland Weber on July 2, 1960, the first couple to be married at the new St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in East Pleasant Plain, Iowa.

Gerri taught third grade in Toledo, Iowa, and after marriage, taught in Amana, Iowa. She became a farm wife when Erland and Gerri moved back to Brighton and they had 2 daughters – Leesa and Leanne. She was honored to be a Godmother to 5 children.

Gerri spent 16 years as a Teachers’ Associate at Brighton Elementary where she got to be the librarian and playground supervisor for both of her daughters and their classmates. Before retiring, Gerri worked in various offices in Fairfield and Brighton.

Gerri moved to Mt. Pleasant in retirement. She was a member of the Altar and Rosary Society at St. Joseph Church. She was a life-long card-player and enjoyed dancing and scrapbooking.

Survivors include daughters Leesa Weber-Hay and grandson Samuel Hay of Colorado, and Leanne and husband Craig Shively of Florida. She was preceded in death by her parents and Erland.

Arrangements are in the care of Cranston Family Funeral Home.

Memorials to St. Joseph Cemetery Association may be left at the church or mailed c/o Cranston Family Funeral Home, P.O. Box 189, Fairfield, IA 52556.

06/16/2025

Geraldine Weber 1940 - 2025

06/12/2025

Mildred "Millie" Irene Jones Obituary

Mildred “Millie” Irene Henry Jones, of Richland, Iowa, passed away peacefully at home on June 11, 2025, at the age of 99.

Millie was born on March 19, 1926, in Monroe County, Tennessee, the daughter of Bob T. and Ada (Bivens) Henry. She began her education in a one-room schoolhouse in Antioch and later attended Friendsville Academy in Friendsville, Tennessee. Her passion for learning led her to Marion College in Indiana, where she earned a teaching degree in 1955. While attending college, Millie played on the basketball team and sang in the college choir.

After graduating, she began teaching fourth grade in Swayzee, Indiana. Soon after, Millie answered a call from the Friends United Meeting to serve as a teacher for missionary children in Kenya, East Africa—a mission that lasted three and a half years.

Upon returning to the United States, Millie was introduced to Robert B. Jones, son of Bruce and Addie Lincoln Jones. They were married on September 12, 1964, and made their home on a farm near Pleasant Plain, where they raised two sons, Evan and Calvin.

Millie was deeply involved in her community and faith. She was a dedicated member of the Pleasant Plain Friends Church, serving as a Sunday School teacher, board member, and active participant in the United Society of Friends Women on both local and international levels. Committed to education, she also served two terms on the Fairfield School Board.

Millie’s sense of humor, vibrant personality, and faith in God shone through in all aspects of her life. In her free time, she enjoyed reading, traveling, and sporting events.

Millie is survived by her husband of over 60 years, Bob; her sons, Evan and Calvin Jones (Renee Buchholz); sisters-in-law Janet Jones and Emma Jean Henry; and several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her brothers Wilker, Ray, Vestal, Rex, and Calvin Henry; and her sisters Voreta Henry and Annie Kirkland.

A funeral service will be held on Monday, June 16, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at Pleasant Plain Friends Church, with Pastor Stan Bauer officiating. The family will receive visitors starting at 10:00 a.m. Burial and a dinner will follow.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to Pleasant Plain Friends Church or The Lord’s Cupboard. Friends may leave online condolences and join the webcast at www.cranstonfamilyfuneralhome.com.

06/12/2025

Mildred (Millie) Irene Jones 1926 - 2025

05/22/2025

Clayborn Paxton 1927 - 2025

05/22/2025

Clayborn Parker Paxton Obituary
Clayborn Parker Paxton passed away peacefully at the age of 97 on May 19, 2025, at the Manor House in Sigourney. Born to Roy and Ethel Wiseman Paxton on September 12, 1927, in Linby, Iowa.

Growing up in the Ollie area, Clayborn attended local schools and developed a strong sense of community that would remain with him throughout his life. On January 5, 1949, he married the love of his life, Myrtle M. Sloan, in Fairfield, Iowa. Together, they built a family and shared a life filled with love and laughter until her passing on August 23, 2017.

Clayborn's patriotism led him to serve his country in the United States Army from 1947 to 1949. After his military service, he returned to Iowa and started working at John Deere in East Moline, working in assembly for four and a half years. Clayborn started working as a supervisor in the shipping and receiving department at Fairfield Aluminum for 34 years. His work ethic and leadership were admired by all who worked alongside him.

A man of service, Clayborn was an active member of the Eagles and the American Legion, where he found camaraderie and a shared commitment to community service. His involvement in these organizations was just one of the many ways he gave back to the community he cherished.

Clayborn's legacy is carried on by his loving family, who will forever remember his gentle spirit and wise counsel. He leaves behind a son, Kenneth Paxton (Linda) of Ollie; a daughter, Sandra Durflinger (Phil) of Agency; five grandsons; six great-grandchildren; and several great-great-grandchildren. His family was his pride and joy, and he took great delight in watching it grow and flourish.

Preceding him in death were his parents; his beloved wife, Myrtle; brothers, Harley, Evertte, Eddie, and Orville Paxton; and sisters, Leona Snoddy and Mary Jane Knox. Clayborn's passing marks the end of a generation, but his memory will live on in the hearts of those who knew him.

A funeral service to celebrate Clayborn's life will be held on Wednesday, May 28, 2025, at 11:00 AM at Cranston Family Funeral Home in Fairfield. Friends and family are invited to pay their respects during visitation, which will take place one hour prior to the service, from 10:00 to 11:00 AM at the funeral home. Following the service, Clayborn will be laid to rest at Prairie Cemetery in Packwood, where he will be interred beside his beloved Myrtle. Memorials in Clayborn’s honor to Essence of Life Hospice may be left at the funeral home or mailed to the family at 31120 230th Avenue, Ollie, IA 52576

05/08/2025

Russell G. Whitaker 1925 - 2025

05/08/2025

Russel Gilbert Whitaker Obituary
Russel G. Whitaker, 99, of Brighton, IA passed away on Tuesday, May 6, 2025, at the United Presbyterian Home in Washington, IA. Funeral services honoring his life will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, May 10, 2025, at the Brighton Community Church in Brighton, IA with Pastor Rick Zickefoose officiating. Burial with military honors will be in the Hillcrest Cemetery immediately following. Visitation will begin at 9:30 a.m. on Saturday, May 10, 2025, at the church and will last until the time of service. Memorial contributions in Russel's honor may be directed to the Brighton Volunteer Fire Department and mailed c/o Cranston Family Funeral Home, P.O. Box 189, Fairfield, IA 52556. Friends may leave online condolences at www.cranstonfamilyfuneralhome.com


Russel Gilbert Whitaker was born on September 12, 1925, in Roodhouse, IL. His life journey began as one of nine siblings and, though preceded in death by his parents Syrrel and Mary Jane Rich Whitaker, his sisters Geraldine Heston and Winifred Lauderdale, and brothers Guy, Syrrel Jr., and Clarence, his legacy continues through his surviving family. He leaves behind his beloved wife of over 74 years, Jane Whitaker of Brighton, IA; his devoted sons, James (Susan) Whitaker of West Burlington, IA, and Richard (Stephanie) Whitaker of Mount Pleasant, IA; six grandchildren, Jasan, Tabitha, Aaron, Nathan, Gregory, and Ryan, and fourteen great-grandchildren, who will all cherish his memory.

Russel's two siblings, Lester Whitaker and Hazel Greiner, also survive him, alongside many nieces, nephews, extended family, and a host of friends.

After graduating from Brighton High School in 1944, Russel served his country by enlisting in the United States Navy in September 1943. He exhibited dedication and honor while stationed on the island of Attu during WWII and later while serving on the Destroyer DD780 USS Stormes until his honorable discharge in 1949. His patriotism and love for his country were foundational elements of his character.

January 20, 1951, marked the beginning of Russel's most treasured partnership when he married the love of his life, Jane Dickinson, in Brighton, IA. He built a rewarding career, dedicating 41 years of service to S.E. Iowa Telecom and its successors, before retiring in 1978.

Russel's commitment to serving others extended beyond his professional life. He was an integral part of the Brighton Volunteer Fire Department for 25 years, from 1955 to 1980, holding the position of Fire Chief. His community involvement also included memberships in the Eagles and Moose Lodge and the American Legion, where his contributions were always valued and appreciated.

He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and the community that he called home.

Cranston Family Funeral Home , IA offers funeral, burial, cremation, preplanning, and grief support services to our community and the surrounding areas.