Gard Funeral Home & Cremation Services, LLC

09/29/2025

Willis Lewis

Willis Lewis, age 87, of Camden, OH passed away on Sunday, September 28, 2025 at Hospice of Hamilton. He was born February 3, 1938 in Blaze, KY, son of the late Lizzie (Edward) Perry and Leslie Lewis.

Willis retired from Westvaco Company in Eaton after 35 years of employment. He enjoyed hunting and fishing; loved bluegrass music; and loved spending time with family.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by wife Elaine Lewis; grandson Darren Lee Lewis; siblings Vernon Lewis, Patsy, Paul, Bobby and Joe Perry, Junior and Bobby Lewis and Gladys Shanefelt-Grimme; and nephews Jerry and Jeff Lewis.

He is survived by his companion of many years Linda Johnson and her children Lou Johnson and Chris Johnson; sons Donnie Lewis, Darrell Lewis and David (Kathy) Lewis and their mother Jean Lewis; numerous grandchildren and great grandchildren; siblings Florene, Herbie and Fred; and numerous nieces and nephews.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date. Gard Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Gratis is assisting with arrangements. Online condolences and other remembrances may be sent by visiting www.gardfuneralhome.com.

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09/27/2025

Rosemary "Rosie" Smith

Rosemary “Rosie” Smith, age 84, of Eaton, OH and formerly of Indianapolis and French Lick, IN, passed away peacefully at home on September 26, 2025, surrounded by the love of her family and those that loved her.

Born on August 6, 1941 in French Lick to the late Charles Wesley and Louisa (Clark) Daugherty, Rosemary graduated from Springs Valley High School. She later retired as an Executive Secretary from Indiana Bell, but her proudest role was always being a mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother.

To her family, she was lovingly known by many names: She was “Granny” to Lindsay, Ridge, Asa, Tripp, and Mack; “Grandma” to Chris; and “Gigi” to her great-grandchildren Carlee and Mateo. These names carried not just affection, but a lifetime of love, laughter, and memories that will be treasured for generations. Her smile was contagious, and her heart was felt by everyone she met.

Rosie lived life with simple joys that brought her great happiness: shopping department stores and flea markets, drinking coffee while watching her Soaps, lunching with her “old lady friends,” and reminiscing about her childhood in French Lick. She adored Hallmark Christmas movies any time of the year, especially when she could curl up in the “cliner” with her great-granddaughter Carlee. She treasured Dairy Queen lunches with her daughter Kathi and made unforgettable memories traveling.

She was strong—much stronger than she ever gave herself credit for—and her family will forever admire her resilience.

Rosie is survived by her daughter Kathi (Carl) Petelle of West Alexandria; son Daniel Smith (Lori Brailey) of Muncie, IN; grandchildren Lindsay (Scott) Watson of Eaton, and Chris (Haylee) Petelle of Eaton; great-grandchildren Carlee and Mateo Watson, Ridge, Asa, Tripp, and Mack Petelle; and many nieces and nephews. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband William Leon Smith, and brothers Eugene and Volney Daugherty.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to three very special aides—Angel Keaton, Elaine Phillips, and Marilyn Ramey—whose loving care allowed Rosie’s wish of staying home until her last heartbeat to be fulfilled. You meant the world to her and to us. Additionally to Preble County Council on Aging for providing weekday lunches and accessible transportation to Rosie. A special thank you also goes to Crossroads Hospice & Palliative Care for their compassionate comfort during her final days.

Visitation will be held Wednesday, October 1, from 5–7 p.m. at Gard Funeral Home, 226 W. Main Street, Eaton, OH, followed by an opportunity for friends and family to share memories in Rosie’s honor at 7 p.m. A graveside committal service will be Friday, October 3, at 1 p.m. at Ames Chapel Cemetery in Paoli, IN.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Senior Home Repair Program at Home Is the Foundation, 111 West Somers Street, Eaton, OH 45320 or www.hitfoundation.org Online condolences may be shared with the family at www.gardfuneralhome.com

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09/27/2025

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09/26/2025

Barbara K. Harter

Barbara K. Harter, age 88, of West Manchester, OH passed away on Thursday, September 25, 2025 at the Brookdale Senior Living in Greenville, OH. She was born June 23, 1937 in Camden, OH to the late Ralph and Amanda (McLaughlin) Lipscomb.

Barbara graduated from Good Samaritan School of Nursing in 1958 and began her career at Good Samaritan Hospital in Dayton, OH. She later spent many years at Wayne Healthcare in Greenville, OH, working in the outpatient setting before serving as house supervisor until her retirement. Inspired by her older sister and supported by her mother, Barbara always had a passion for helping others. She was known for her dedication, compassion, and professionalism, earning the respect of both colleagues and physicians alike. Even after retiring at age 72, Barbara remained committed to nursing, maintaining her license and completing all continuing education requirements through age 86. Her career reflects a lifelong devotion to caring for others and a true love of the nursing profession. More than anything, Barbara was a strong woman who cared deeply for her family.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her sister and brother-in-law Phyllis and Charlie Evilsizer; and nephew Tim Evilsizer.

She is survived by her husband of 64 years, Linden Harter of West Manchester; son Ned (Amy) Harter of West Manchester; grandchildren Joel (Jamie) Harter of West Manchester, Aaron Harter of Arcanum, OH, Britani (Larry) Adkins of West Manchester, OH and Ashley Cottingim (Zac) of Lewisburg, OH; great grandchildren Landen Harter, Levi Harter, Suhmer Adkins, Audrey Adkins, Kylah Adkins, Charleigh Ullery and Sutton Ullery; niece Cindy (Tim) Balzer of Franklin, OH; great nephews Brad Fletcher of Middletown, OH and Todd Fletcher of Franklin, OH; and great niece Katie Fletcher of Franklin, OH.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, October 1, 2025 from 9:30 am until time of funeral service at 11:00 am at the Gard Funeral Home & Cremation Services, 226 West Main Street, Eaton, OH. Burial will follow at Fairmount Cemetery in Camden, OH. Memorial contributions may be sent to EverHeart Hospice, 1350 N. Broadway Street, Greenville, OH 45331. Online condolences and other remembrances may be sent to the family by visiting www.gardfuneralhome.com.

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09/26/2025

Debra K. Conway

Debra K. Conway, age 67, of Eaton, OH passed away on Thursday, September 25, 2025 at her residence. She was born July 31, 1958 in Paintsville, KY to the late Austin and Opal Daniels.

Debra was a loving mother and granny of six. She loved listening to audiobooks and making cornbread.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her grandson Ethan Payne; sisters Stella Howard, Marie Daniels and Betty Blanton; and brother James C. Daniels.

She is survived by her son James (Sarah) Daniels; grandchildren Isaac Daniels (Ali Hollon), Jacob Daniels, Eric Kaylor, Austin Daniels, Ian Daniels and Eli Daniels; sisters Peggy Daniels and Geraldine Daniels; and numerous nieces and nephews

Private services will be held at the convenience of the family. Gard Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Eaton is assisting with arrangements. Online condolences and other remembrances may be sent to the family by visiting www.gardfuneralhome.com.

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09/24/2025

Thomas Clark Powell

Thomas Clark Powell, age 92, of West Alexandria, Ohio, passed away peacefully at his home on September 22, 2025.

Born on June 3, 1933, to the late Helen and Stanley Powell, Tom lived a full and accomplished life rooted in family and hard work. He was preceded in death by his beloved parents and siblings Betty, Norman, John, James, Richard, and Robert Powell.

Tom is survived by his devoted wife of 60 years, Patricia Powell, who was the love of his life. Together they built a beautiful life and family. He is also survived by his children: Steven (Michelle) Powell, Katie (Jason) Sexton, and Mandy (Corey) Ruble; his brothers Bill (Joanne) Powell and Jerry (Patty) Powell; his cherished grandchildren Alex Strader, Jenna (Sam) Golding, Matt Powell, Abbey Sexton, Laney Ruble, and Carter Ruble; and his great-grandchildren, Alik Davis and Lucy Strader. His family was a source of immeasurable joy to him.

A proud graduate of the University of Cincinnati, Tom earned his degree in chemical engineering before beginning a distinguished career. He worked for NCR, Appleton Paper Company, and later served as a head research scientist at Eurand America, where he led advancements in pharmaceuticals. His many patents helped further the field of microencapsulation.

Outside of his career, Tom had a lifelong love for animals. He enjoyed caring for and raising dogs, horses, goats, and chickens on the farm he shared with Patty since 1966, where he remained until his passing. The home they so lovingly built has become a home for three generations of extended family and continues to be a gathering place for cherished family memories.

Tom will be remembered as a devoted husband, a loving father and grandfather, a loyal brother, and a man who gave wholeheartedly to his family.

Visitation will be held on Monday, September 29, 2025 from 1:00 to 2:00 pm at the Gard Funeral Home & Cremation Services, 226 West Main Street, Eaton, OH. A graveside service will follow at 2:30 pm at Zion Cemetery in Eaton

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to Gard Funeral Home to assist with caring for those who lovingly supported Tom and Patty during their final days together. Contributions will be used to honor and thank the caregivers who were so meaningful during this time. Online condolences and other remembrances may be sent to the family by visiting www.gardfuneralhome.com.

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09/23/2025

Sherri Lynn Pekar

Sherri Lynn Pekar of Eaton, Ohio, was born in 1949 in Gladwin, Michigan to Edward Breault and Vera (Ockerman) Breault. She passed away peacefully holding hands with her husband, Thomas Pekar, on September 22, 2025 in Dayton, Ohio. She married Thomas in May of 1987, and they shared a loving marriage of 38 years.

Sherri retired from Fidelity Healthcare in 2010. She enjoyed traveling adventures with Thomas, visiting their family in Germany and Alaska, touring the Smoky Mountains, Arizona desert, and Michigan, including one of her favorite places, Hartwick Pines.

A passionate scrapbooker, Sherri was rarely in front of the camera, but she was always behind it, capturing family adventures and everyday silliness. Her scrapbooks now stand as an incredible gift to her family, preserving the joy and love she poured into their lives.

Sherri was an incredible person—smart, kind, generous, full of life, with a hilarious sense of humor that brought out the biggest belly laughs. She absolutely adored spending time with her grandchildren. Whether listening to their stories or planning little adventures, she made every visit to Grammy and Opa’s house memorable.

She is survived by her husband, Thomas; her children, Jeff (Sarah) White and Lynn Pluta; and her beloved grandchildren: Kadin, Harrison, Kiya, Avery, and Annika. She is also survived by her sisters Connie (Ken) Heath, Linda Jones, and Jeanette Breault, and many nieces and nephews and their families.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Edward and Vera Breault; her brother, Edward Breault; and her brother-in-law, James Jones.

At Sherri’s request, there be no formal services. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations be made to her favorite charities, American Lung Association, Feeding America, and St. Judes Children’s Research Hospital. Gard Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Eaton is assisting with arrangements. Online condolences and other remembrances may be sent by visiting www.gardfuneralhome.com.

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09/23/2025

Perry Wayne Began

Perry Wayne Began, age 49, of Camden, OH passed away on Monday, September 22, 2025 at home with his loving family at his side. He was born on January 14, 1976 in Middletown, OH to Robert and Madeline (Hildebrand) Began. Perry loved his Hank Williams Jr. dolls, his monkey and spending time with his family. He was loved by everyone who knew him. He was preceded in death by his paternal and maternal grandparents. He is survived by his parents, Robert and Madeline Began; sister Rhonda McKinney (Adam McNamara); brother Jason (Trish) Began; nephews Austin (Kyra), Zack (Damaris), Nick (Bianca), Mason and Wayne; nieces Samantha (Dustyn), Allison, Makenna (Tyler) and Alexi; great nephews Bentley, Jax, Mack and Landon; great nieces Chloe, Daisy, Kinsley and another on the way; numerous aunts, uncles and cousins; and his homecare nurse Lori Holtz. A graveside service will be held on Thursday, September 25, 2025 at 11:00 AM at Fairmound Cemetery in West Elkton, OH. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Perry’s name to the charity of the donor's choice. Gard Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Gratis is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences and other remembrances may be sent to the family by visiting www.gardfuneralhome.com.

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09/22/2025

Patricia G. Stotler

Patricia Stotler, beloved mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, cousin, and friend, passed away from cancer on September 16th surrounded by love and family. While small in stature, her adventurous spirit was a big inspiration to her family and friends.

A lifelong traveler, Patricia delighted in exploring the world — whether strolling the streets of Europe, cruising the locks with her Captain John, or simply savoring a perfect croissant at home. Her love of all things French brought a little joie de vivre into our lives. She was equally passionate about her dog Pixie — lovingly referred to as Liz’s “sister” — and rarely missed an opportunity to share her love of pets on walks, in parks and in senior center visits.

Patricia valued community and connection, finding joy with her sailing friends, her bridge and mahjong groups, and in the countless friendships she nurtured over the years in Florida, Vermont and Ohio. Her commitment to helping others began early as a candy-striper and continued throughout her life as a regular blood donor and a supporter of many charitable organizations, especially those dedicated to animals, heart and cancer research.

Patricia’s greatest pride was her family. She is survived by her daughter Liz and Liz’s family — husband Dan, daughter Ru, heart-daughters Deborah and Gigi — and of course her “grandpets” who have welcomed Pixie into their pack with grace. She is also survived by her late sister Margot’s children Brian Kaczynski and Karen Lau, as well as cousins Bob and Liz Hirsch, and their families.

Patricia’s enthusiasm for life and her willingness to embrace every adventure will forever inspire those who knew her.

A celebration of life will be arranged at a later date. Gard Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Eaton is assisting with arrangements. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in Patricia’s honor to the Humane Society of Preble County, reflecting her lifelong devotion to pets.

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09/18/2025

Patricia A. Hieatt

Patricia A. Hieatt, age 77, of Eaton, passed away on Thursday, September 18, 2025 at the Vancrest of Eaton Health Care Center. She was born September 15, 1948 in Columbus, OH.

She was preceded in death by her father Craig E. Phillips Sr in 1977; her mother Mary Ellen (Stumbo) Phillips in 1990; her husband Roth C. Hieatt in 2004; and her brother Russell E. Phillips in 2013.

She is survived by her children Jeff Allen of Wilmington, Deanne (Marc) Welz of New Paris and Bobby Allen of Eaton; sister Paulette (Paul) Hieatt of Wilmington; brother Craig (Sandy) Phillips Jr. of Wilmington; and numerous grandchildren, nieces and nephews.

Private services will be held at the convenience of the family. Interment will be at Preble Memory Gardens in West Alexandria. Gard Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Eaton is assisting with arrangements. Memorial contributions may be sent to Hospice of Dayton, 324 Wilmington Avenue, Dayton, OH 45420. Online condolences and other remembrances may be sent to the family by visiting www.gardfuneralhome.com.

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09/18/2025

Richard Thompson

Richard Thompson, age 83, of Camden, OH passed away on Wednesday, September 17, 2025 at Hospice of Hamilton. He was born December 30, 1941 in Dayton, KY to the late Charlie and Frances (Sizemore) Thompson.

Richard was a U.S. Army Veteran that served during the Vietnam War. He was a retired truck driver from Westvaco Company in Eaton; was an avid animal lover and loved his dogs Eddie and LE and cat Scooby; and most of all dearly loved his family and spending time with them.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his grandson Justin Boyd; brother Author Thompson; and son-in-law David Stoner.

He is survived by his wife of 30 years, Lois Thompson; daughters Regina Stoner and Eilena Migal; stepdaughters Tanya (Doug) Henning, Tamera (Pat) Jones, Shawn (Fred) Hosier. Sondra (Greg) Swallow and Lori (Billy) Blevins; stepson Thomas (Griselda) Flory; numerous grandchildren and great grandchildren; sister Judith (Kenneth) Bailey; and numerous nieces and nephews.

A celebration of life will be held on September 28, 2025 from 4:00 to 7:00 pm at the Eaton Youth Center on Park Avenue in Eaton. Gard Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Eaton is assisting the family with arrangements. Memorial contributions may be made to Ohio Hospice, 324 Wilmington Avenue, Dayton, OH 45420. Online condolences and other remembrances may be sent by visiting www.gardfuneralhome.com.

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09/15/2025

Carolyn S. Schmidt

Carolyn S. Schmidt, age 70, of West Alexandria, OH passed away on Saturday, September 13, 2025 at the Greenbriar Nursing Center in Eaton, OH. She was born April 8, 1955 in Farmersville, OH to the late Russell and Harriett (Sparks) O’Ryan.

Carolyn was a 1974 graduate of Valley View High School; was avid Cleveland Browns, Ohio State Buckeyes and Notre Dame Fighting Irish Fan; was a free spirit with an avid sense of humor; and was a devoted partner, mother and grandmother.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her brother Rusty O’Ryan in 2021.

She is survived by her partner Gail Schmidt of West Alexandria; sons Thomas Sholly and Matthew Sholly; grandson Devon Sholly and Wesley Sholly; great grandson Jaxson Sholly; sisters Connie Stebbins and Terri O’Ryan; numerous nieces and nephews; and special friends and family at Greenbriar Nursing Center.

Visitation will be held on Friday, September 19, 2025 from 10:00 am until time of funeral service at 12:00 noon at Gard Funeral Home & Cremation Service, 67 W. Dayton Street, West Alexandria, OH. Burial will follow at Fairview Cemetery in West Alexandria. Online condolences and other remembrances may be sent by visiting www.gardfuneralhome.com.

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