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Black-Epperson Funeral Homes, 231 Main Street, Byesville, OH (2026)

04/10/2026

Bonnie (Eltringham) Parry, 87, of Lore City, passed away peacefully at her home on Thursday (April 9, 2026) surrounded by the love of her family.

Bonnie was born on July 6, 1938 to Everett and Elenore Eltringham. She was raised in Buffalo and went on to build a life centered around family, hard work, and simple joys. On August 28, 1954 she married the love of her life, Jack “Bob” Parry Jr. Together, they shared many happy years and, in 1970, built their home in the country, where countless cherished memories were made.

Bonnie dedicated forty-one years of her life to March Electric, where she was known for her strong work ethic and kind spirit. Outside of work, she found joy in camping, traveling, and caring for her yard, which she took great pride in.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Jack “Bob” Parry Jr.; her sons, Terry and Ron; and her brothers, Everett and John Eltringham. She was also preceded in death by her beloved “Golden Girls”, Edna and June.

Bonnie is survived by her loving son, Larry (Betty) Parry of Lore City; and her brothers: Robert (Pat) Eltringham of Buffalo, Harold (Sherry) Eltringham of Senecaville, Sam (Linda) Eltringham of Byesville, and Bernie Eltringham of Cambridge. She also leaves behind her cherished grandchildren: Terry Jr. (Lori) Parry, Teresa McCammon, Tina (Aaron) Todd, Tracy (Adam) Taylor, Amy (Andrew) McConkey, and Amber (Curt) West. In addition, she is survived by her daughter-in-law, Debbie Parry of Lore City; her sister-in-law, Debby Sparks of Byesville; fifteen great-grandchildren; and five great-great-grandchildren.

Bonnie held a special place in her heart for her dear friend, Mike Merritt.

Bonnie will be remembered for her warmth, strength, and the love she shared with all who knew her. Her legacy lives on through her family and the many lives she touched.

Visitation will be held Tuesday (April 14, 2026) from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. at Black-Epperson Funeral Home, Byesville, where funeral services will follow at 12 p.m. with Pastor Devani Roe officiating.

Burial will be at Greenwood Cemetery, Byesville.

The family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to Hospice of Guernsey for their compassionate care. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests that donations be made in Bonnie’s name to Hospice of Guernsey Inc., PO Box 1165, Cambridge OH 43725.

Personal condolences may be shared with the family by visiting www.black-eppersonfuneralhomes.com

04/10/2026

Joseph M. Sikora Jr., 90, of Byesville, passed away peacefully at home on Wednesday, April 8, 2026, surrounded by his loving family.

He was born November 5, 1935, in Byesville to the late Anna Theresa Sikora (Duke) and Joseph Michael Sikora Sr.

Joseph proudly served his country in the United States Army and often fondly shared stories of his time in Germany. He was employed for more than 30 years at Champion Spark Plug in Cambridge until his retirement. Following that, he worked as a custodian for the Rolling Hills School District. He also generously volunteered for many years at Southeastern Ohio Regional Medical Center alongside his beloved wife, Joan. During the 1970’s, he became a volunteer with the Byesville Volunteer Fire Department and served with them for many years.

Joseph was a man of strong faith and a lifelong member of Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Byesville. Following its closing in 2009, he became a member of Christ Our Light Parish (Saint Benedict’s).

Joseph devoted his life to his family. In his later years, he cherished being at home, often sitting in his favorite chair, watching over his garden, or enjoying time in the garage. He loved talking with his children and grandchildren, whether on the phone or during visits, always asking about their lives and taking joy in their company. Joseph had a lifelong love of classic cars and could spend hours reminiscing about them while browsing car lots. He took great pride in keeping his lawn and garden beautiful and found simple happiness in the small pleasures of home. He loved a good Slovak dish and always enjoyed his wife Joan’s cooking. Together, they spent many years making their famous nut rolls, a tradition he treasured. Above all, Joseph’s greatest joy came from the love and laughter of his family surrounding him.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Joan Sikora, in 2022; and his sister, Dolores King, in 2021.

Joseph is survived by his children: Michael Anthony (Donnalyn) Sikora of Cambridge; Stephanie Ann (Sam) Mallette of North Canton; and Sarah Elizabeth (John) Rose of North Canton. He is also survived by Donnalyn’s children: Ian Cole McGrath and Jon Anthony McGrath; his grandchildren: Alexander, Anna, Amie, Andrew, Joseph Allen, and Henry John; and his siblings: Carol Raynak of North Olmsted, Jane (Tony) Mankus of West Chester, Mary Skeslock of Cambridge, and Jim (Sharon) Sikora of Cambridge. He also leaves behind many nieces, nephews, brothers-in law and sisters-in-law, cousins, dear friends, and extended family.

Visitation will be held Tuesday (April 14, 2026) from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. at Christ Our Light Parish (Saint Benedict’s). A Mass of Christian Burial will follow at 12 p.m. at the church.

A private burial will take place at Greenwood Cemetery in Byesville at a later date.

Services will be live-streamed from the church.

Personal condolences may be shared with the family by visiting www.black-eppersonfuneralhomes.com

04/09/2026

Robert Eugene Blackstone, 88, of Byesville, passed away peacefully at his home on Thursday (April 9, 2026).

Born on January 16, 1938, in Byesville, he was the son of the late Ernest Eugene and Ethel (Black) Blackstone. Robert attended Cambridge High School and spent sixty-five years working in a variety of roles, including pottery worker, truck driver, and factory employee at Homer Laughlin and later Westinghouse, before retiring from Seminole in 1990.

A proud veteran, Robert served in the United States Navy from 1955 to 1959. He was a life member of the Byesville VFW Post 3760, AMVETS 70, Moose Lodge #631, and the Moose Legion, and previously belonged to Eagles Aerie #386.

Robert found joy in the simple pleasures of life - camping, bluegrass festivals, and riding his Harley Davidson. He and his wife, Mary, traveled from coast to coast, creating memories that became some of his most cherished stories.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a son, Michael; his brother, John; and his sister, Betty.

Robert is survived by his loving wife, Mary (Hickman) Blackstone, whom he married January 28, 1962; his son, David (& Chris) Blackstone; his grandchildren: Bo (& Brandi) and Tara (& Brett); his great-grandchildren: Liam, Jonah, Eva, Parker, Cayden, and Miles; and his four-legged companion, Lucky.

Visitation will be held Monday (April 13, 2026) from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Black-Epperson Funeral Home, Byesville, where funeral services will follow at 1 p.m. with Pastor Brandi Blackstone officiating.

Burial will be at Northwood Cemetery, Cambridge, where military honors will be accorded to him by the Guernsey County Veterans Council.

Personal condolences may be shared with the family by visiting www.black-eppersonfuneralhomes.com

04/02/2026

Richard “Dick” E. Tipton, 88, of Senecaville, passed away peacefully at his home on Wednesday (April 1, 2026).

Born November 20, 1937, in Senecaville, he was the son of the late Orval and Beatrice (Beam) Tipton.

A proud 1955 graduate of Senecaville High School, Dick built a long and steady career as a heavy equipment operator in both the construction and strip mining industries. He was a dedicated member of the United Mine Workers and served his community for many years as a Richland Township Trustee, where his responsibilities included the care and oversight of the township cemeteries.

Dick was a longtime member of the Senecaville United Methodist Church and a fifty year member of Point Pleasant Masonic Lodge #360. He also served his country with honor as a member of the United States Marine Corps Reserves.

He was a man who found joy in simple pleasures - golfing, tending to his yard, watching birds (with a special fondness for purple martins), and indulging in his favorite sweets. Mornings often found him at McDonald’s in Byesville, sharing coffee and conversation with the “McDonald’s Boys” as they caught up on local news. Music was another lifelong love; after playing trumpet in high school, he continued with the Cambridge City Band, where he earned the distinction of first chair. Above all, Dick treasured time spent with his family, who were the center of his life.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sister, Sandra Oney; and his brother, Jack Tipton.

Dick is survived by his devoted wife of sixty seven years, Judie (Carpenter) Tipton, whom he married on November 3, 1958; his daughter, Angela (Bill) Urdak of Senecaville; his son, R. Scott (Tatiana) Tipton of Palm Coast, Florida; his brother, Robert (Mary) Tipton of Newark; three grandchildren: Andrey, Jessica, and Jordan; several great grandchildren; many nieces and nephews; and cherished lifelong family friends, Don and Janet Hendershot.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to those who provided exceptional care and comfort during Dick’s final journey: his nurse, Courtney; his caregiver, Monica; Chaplain Kris Bright; and the entire Hospice of Guernsey team.

Graveside services and burial will be held at Senecaville Cemetery Tuesday (April 7, 2026) at 1 p.m. with Pastor Kris Bright officiating. Full military honors will be accorded to him by the United States Marine Corps in conjunction with the Guernsey County Veterans Council.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests that memorial contributions be made in Dick’s name to Hospice of Guernsey Inc., PO Box 1165, Cambridge OH 43725.Guernsey Inc., PO Box 1165, Cambridge OH 43725.

Personal condolences may be shared with the family by visiting www.black-eppersonfuneralhomes.com

03/30/2026

Harold Johnson, 85, of Pleasant City, passed away Saturday (March 28, 2026) at his home, surrounded by his loving family.

He was born on January 27, 1941, in Buffalo, to Bernard and Helen (Weaver) Johnson. He was a graduate of Buffalo High School, where he was an athlete and a member of the basketball team that won a county championship.

He later purchased a farm, where he raised a large and loving family.

Throughout his life, Harold held an unwavering faith in God, which he joyfully shared with those around him. He loved spending time with his children, grandchildren, and extended family, worshiping God, singing, and listening to gospel music. He will be deeply missed for his gentle spirit, his enduring smile, and the loving Christian example he lived each day.

With grateful hearts for his 85 years, his family finds comfort knowing he is now home with the Lord, reunited with family and friends who have gone before him.

Harold was preceded in death by his father, Bernard Johnson, who perished in the USS Indianapolis during World War II; his mother, Helen (John) Luczak; and his sister, Connie (Robert) Holdren.

He is survived by his loving and devoted wife, Rose (Andrews) Johnson, whom he married July 2, 1995; brothers: John (Anna) Luczak and Ken Luczak; children: Jay Johnson of Clearwater FL, Christie (Ron) Shelton of Cumberland, Timothy (Amy) Johnson of Zanesville, Daniel Johnson of Broken Arrow OK, and Connie (John) Masterson of Kodiak AK; stepchildren: Charlie (Shannon) Lantz and Scott (Keri) Lantz; his special sister-in-law, Beth Cunningham; as well as many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, other relatives, and friends.

Visitation will be held Wednesday (April 1, 2026) from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Black-Epperson Funeral Home, Byesville, where funeral services will follow at 1 p.m. with Evan. Mark Beros officiating.

Burial will be at Buffalo Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions in Harold’s name be made to Hospice of Guernsey Inc., PO Box 1165, Cambridge OH 43725.

Personal condolences may be shared with the family by visiting www.black-eppersonfuneralhomes.com

03/27/2026

James Stanley Church, 77, of Cumberland, passed away Thursday (March 26, 2026) at his home.

Born August 22, 1948, in Cambridge, he was the son of the late Johnny S. Church and Mary M. (Enochs) Church. A 1966 graduate of Shenandoah High School, James built a long and dedicated career with GTE, where he worked for 30 years as a telephone installer and repairman. He later retired from AmeriGas after five years of service.

James was a man who valued community, fellowship, and the outdoors. He was a member of the Point Pleasant Masonic Lodge, a life member of the NRA, and a former member of both the Rolling Hills Horseman’s Association and the Shenandoah Riding Club. His faith was central to his life, and he was a devoted member of the Southern Hills Baptist Fellowship, where he served as a trustee for many years.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by three half-sisters: Wanda, Betty, and Virginia; and a half-brother, Jackie.

James is survived by his loving wife, Mary Ann (Kornokovich) Church, whom he married on September 28, 1965; his three sons: Jim (& Cindy) Church of Pleasant City, John (& Rhonda) Church of New Concord, and Jeff (& Mary) Church of New Concord; and two brothers, Johnny W. (& Marsha) Church of Oklahoma and Jerry (& Kathy) Church of Pleasant City. He was a proud grandfather to Amanda Poth, Jimmy Church, Billy Church, Jessica Church, and Justin Church; and a cherished great-grandfather to Connor, Greyson, Ava, Roper, Lena, and Tate, with another great-grandchild on the way.

Visitation will be held Sunday (March 29, 2026) from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. at Black-Epperson Funeral Home, Byesville, with Masonic services beginning at 4:30 p.m.

Funeral services will be held at Black-Epperson Funeral Home, Byesville, on Monday (March 30, 2026) at 11 a.m. with Pastor Kirk Gable officiating.

As an expression of sympathy, the family suggests that memorial contributions be made to either of these organizations that were important to James: 1) Hospice of Guernsey Inc., PO Box 1165, Cambridge OH 43725; or 2) Southern Hills Baptist Fellowship, 127 W 8th Street, Cambridge OH 43725.

Personal condolences may be shared with the family by visiting www.black-eppersonfuneralhomes.com

03/20/2026

Janet Elaine (McHenry) Redd, 94, of Lore City, passed away peacefully on Thursday (March 19, 2026) at AlterCare Summit Acres in Caldwell.

Born May 28, 1931, in Byesville, she was the daughter of the late Carl W. McHenry and Cary Cornelia (Nunley) McHenry. A graduate of Byesville High School, Janet worked at NCR and S.S. Kresge before she and her husband, Wayne, became the longtime owners and operators of Redd’s Furniture & Carpet. She was also a talented seamstress whose skill and care were well known to family and friends.

Janet was a member of Lore City Methodist Church. She and Wayne were beloved in the community for the Easter Egg Hunts they hosted each year—an event that brought joy to generations of local children. Janet was also known for her exceptional homemade taffy and her delicious homemade noodles, both of which became treasured family traditions.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Wayne Edward Redd, whom she married on December 5, 1948. Wayne passed away on September 21, 2018. She was also preceded in death by her sisters: Bessie Eubanks, Margie Abrams, Irene Mallett, Bonnie Duddy, Deloris (Berdine) Williamson, and Linda White; her brothers: Arliss McHenry and Melvin McHenry; and her great-granddaughter, Precious Mary Redd.

Left to cherish her memory are her children: Tim (Roberta) Redd of Lore City, Diana (Ray) Thompson of Cambridge, and Cindi Gebhart of Lore City. She is also survived by her grandchildren: Stephanie (John) McCullough of Cambridge, Rusty (Britnay) King of Byesville, Nikole (Bobby) Lee of Michigan, Nathan (Marci) Redd of Cambridge, Jeremy Gebhart, Jennifer (Nathan) Laughman of Old Washington, Shelley (Bill) Barlock of Cambridge, and Benjy (Chasity) Thompson of Caldwell. Her legacy continues through her great-grandchildren: Kimberlin (Morgan) Corbitt, Kyle McCullough, Brianna (Justin) Leonard, Ian Lee, Zed (Abby) Redd, Grace Redd, Dalton Laughman, Bryce Hannum, Sophey Barlock, Paetyn Thompson, Paezlee Thompson, Prezdyn Thompson, Parkyr Thompson, and Pairys Thompson; and her great-great-grandchildren: Kaylin Huggins, Karson Corbitt, Kashton Corbitt, and Cooper Redd. She is also survived by her sister-in-law, Jackie McHenry, along with many nieces and nephews.

Special thanks to Absolute Hospice, AlterCare, and Melissa & Rachael of Independent Angels for the care they provided for Janet and the family.

Visitation will be held Monday (March 23, 2026) from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Black-Epperson Funeral Home, Byesville, where funeral services will follow at 1 p.m. with Pastor Devani Roe officiating.

Burial will be at Greenwood Cemetery, Byesville.

Personal condolences may be shared with the family by visiting www.black-eppersonfuneralhomes.com

03/17/2026

Jeffrey “Jeff” Alan Mathews, 67, of Quaker City, passed away on Friday (March 13, 2026) at Genesis Hospital in Zanesville surrounded by his family.

Jeff was born April 4, 1958 in Columbus, Ohio, son of Gary Irwin Mathews and the late Jean Wallace Johnston.

Jeff was a Logistics Load Planner for Colgate Palmolive, retiring in 2020 after twenty-three years of service. Prior to that, he was a banking manager in New Lexington for several years.

He was a member of the Freeport Masonic Lodge #415 and the Scottish Rite in Cambridge. Jeff enjoyed spending time at home with his 4 cats, reading, traveling, golfing, music, true crime documentaries, and cooking with his wife, Dawn.

He was preceded in death by his mother; and by his sister, Teri Kundert Spitnale.

Jeff is survived by his wife, Dawn M. Mathews, whom he married on January 15, 2025; his stepson, Nick Parker of Pleasant City; his father, Gary Mathews of Cambridge; his brother, John (Carla) Mathews of Columbus; his sister, Dana Spears of Michigan; his brother, Michael (Tammie) Mathews of Michigan; his nieces: Elizabeth “Liz” (Reid, and children, Rustin and Ivy) Jewett, Amy Mathews Miller, Staci Spears, Shelby Mathews, and Sophia Mathews; his nephews: John Mathews, Kenny Spears, and Brandon Kundert; and his in-laws: Mark and Sandy Ogle of Quaker City and Jim Barlock of Pleasant City.

To honor Jeff’s wishes, no services will be held at this time. He encourages everyone to consider organ donation as did he.

Memorial contributions can be made in Jeff’s name to the Animal Shelter Society, 1430 Newark Road, Zanesville, Ohio, 43701, or the Ohio Wildlife Conservation Foundation, 635 Tater K**b Road, Peebles, Ohio, 45660.

Personal condolences may be shared with the family by visiting www.black-eppersonfuneralhomes.com

03/17/2026

Gail Garnet (Weaver) Warehime, 88, of Cambridge, passed away at her home on Sunday (March 15, 2026).

She was born on June 7, 1937, in Guernsey County, daughter of the late Roy Weaver and Angie (Johnson) Weaver.

A graduate of Buffalo High School, Gail worked as a line worker at March Electric for forty-two years, retiring July 1, 1999.

Gail and her husband, Howard, enjoyed going to the boys’ motorcross races and going to Amish Country frequently to eat breakfast. She loved having the big holiday dinners for her family when she was still able to. Gail enjoyed working in the garden and tending to her flowers.

Gail often went bowling with her three other friends while working at March Electric. After that, she was in a mixed bowling league with her husband and two friends for many years.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Howard Lee Warehime, who passed away on May 29, 2015. They were married on December 24, 1955. Also deceased are her siblings, George Weaver, Thelma Combs, Vivian Warehime, and Edith Harper.

Gail is survived by her children: Mark (& Mary) Warehime of Cambridge, Penny Warehime (& John Dosch) of Zanesville, and Brent Warehime of Cambridge; her grandchildren: Dustin, Shawn, Matthew, Michelle, Mellisa, Brittany, and Zachary; ten great-grandchildren; sister-in-law, Cora Warehime; and several nieces and nephews.

The family would like to give special thanks to Hospice of Guernsey and her in-home caregiver, Vicki Osborne, for the care and compassion they provided.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday (March 18, 2026) from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Black-Epperson Funeral Home, Byesville, where funeral services will follow at 1 p.m. with Pastor Ken Harper officiating.

Burial will be at Senecaville Cemetery.

Personal condolences may be shared with the family by visiting www.black-eppersonfuneralhomes.com

03/13/2026

**Service time updated**

Kathleen A. Kraizel, 60, of Byesville, passed away Thursday (March 12, 2026) at OhioHealth Southeastern Med, Cambridge.

She was born June 30, 1960 in Cambridge, daughter of Virginia “Ruth” (Scott) Kraizel and the late Stephen John “Pep” Kraizel Sr.

Kathleen was a graduate of Meadowbrook High School. She worked as a nurse at Southeastern Med (OhioHealth) for many years.

She loved going on trips, watching movies, and spending time with her family & friends.

In addition to her father, she was preceded in death by her brother, Steve J. Kraizel Jr.

Kathleen is survived by her mother, Ruth Kraizel; a brother, Robert “Bob” Kraizel; a sister, Janice Kraizel Hupp; and several nieces & nephews.

Graveside services and burial will take place at Greenwood Cemetery, Byesville, on Tuesday (March 17, 2026) at 1 p.m. with Evan. Mark Beros officiating.

Personal condolences may be shared with the family by visiting www.black-eppersonfuneralhomes.com

03/11/2026

Ricky “Rick” W. Burkhead Sr., 64, of Senecaville, died Friday (March 6, 2026) at his home.

He was born September 19, 1961, in Barnesville, to Glen Eric and Edith Burkhead, who preceded him in death.

Rick was married on March 1, 2000, in Barnesville to the love of his life, Rosemary L. (Taylor) Burkhead. She survives, along with their beloved cat, Levi; his four sons: Ricky Burkhead Jr. and Sam Burkhead of Bethesda, Josh Burkhead and Michelle Burkhead of St. Clairsville, Andrew Burkhead of Barnesville, and Jesse Burkhead and Kennedy Hoying-Burkhead of Chicago IL.; and step-daughter, Bobbi Taylor and Rich Bowman of Cambridge. Also surviving are his grandchildren: Elaina and Emma Burkhead of Bethesda, Kohlton Burkhead of St. Clairsville, Carly Dyer and Daniel Dyer of Cambridge and Madison Taylor of Center; as well as one great-granddaughter, Luna Dyer. Rick is also survived by his brother, Eric Burkhead and Marilyn Burkhead of Hendrysburg; and “adopted” son and good family friend, Colby Rinehart of Bethesda.

Rick had a career in trucking, managing several trucking companies. He fondly recalled his time traveling throughout the states in his youth. He was also an ordained minister of Baptist faith and had the pleasure of officiating multiple weddings, including the wedding of his granddaughter Carly. Rick was extremely proud of his family and enjoyed spending his time with them fishing on their boat.

The family gathered for a celebration of life. No public viewing or service will be held.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests that memorial contributions be made in Rick’s name to the American Heart Association, PO Box 840692, Dallas TX 75284-0692.

Personal condolences may be shared with the family by visiting www.black-eppersonfuneralhomes.com

Black-Epperson Funeral Homes

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