Submitted by Robert Lane Luzena Dixon Wininger Orange County Obituaries
Newspaper and date unknown
Luzena Dixon Wininger, daughter of Alfred and Clorinda Pinnick Dixon, was born March 14, 1878 near West Baden Springs (Indiana) and departed this life November 12, 1962, age 84 years, 7 months and 28 days. She was married to Oscar Wininger on August 16, 1910. Two children were born to this union, namely, Harold Ray who died in infancy and Lloyd Carrol. The family later established a home in the Ames Chapel community and were blessed by a foster daughter, Mrs. Eulah Boyd Kerby, who came to live with the family at the age of nine years. She loved and cared for her as her own. She united with the Church of Christ of Prospect in early life and remained a devoted member. She had great faith in God, trusting and believing that He would ever sustain and comfort in every trial. Most of her lifetime was spent in Orange County, where during her younger life she taught school for ten years. her husband preceded her in death on January 1, 1962. She was a mother of unassuming conduct who went about daily, ministering where she could as long as her health permitted . . . not in a public way, but steadily doing, if comfort was needed she knew how to sympathize. Well can it be said of her, "She looketh well to the ways of her household and sateth not of the bread of idleness." She leaves to mourn her departure, the son and wife, and foster daughter and her husband, 8 grandchildren and 4 great-grandchildren, a brother, William S. Dixon of west Baden Springs and a number of nieces and nephews.
Submitted by Robert Lane Lloyd Carrol Wininger
The Springs Valley Herald, June 19, 1975
Lloyd Carrol Wininger, son of Oscar and Luzena Dixon Wininger, was born in French Lick, Indiana, on June 19, 1913. He departed this life on April 15, 175 at the Orange County Hospital where he had been a patient for over two weeks, suffering from a severe heart attack. He had fought a good fight but passed away like a vapor, age 61 years, nine months, and 27 days. The family in his early childhood moved to the farm in the Ames Chapel community where he grew to manhood. He united with the Ames Chapel United Methodist Church in 1939 and was a faithful member. He served as trustee of the church and special committee member, and taught the Men's Sunday School class for several years. He was married to Ruthie Mae Brown on June 6, 1937, and to this union were born five children; Ramona, Carrol Duane, Virginia, Darlene and Diane. On June 28, 1972, he was married to Mrs. Opal Smith. Her kindness and devotion were expressed during their short wedded life together. He was a farmer but in later years he worked on construction. His quiet disposition and amiable character made friends with all with whom he was associated. Rich in his faith in God and the Lord Jesus, it seems that he well may have said, as did Paul: (Second Timothy 4:7,8) "I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith, henceforth, there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day, and not to me only, but unto all them also that love His appearing." May we all who have known him and associated with him, receive an inspiration to live better from his life which has been so rich in deeds of love, sympathy and kindness. Left to mourn his passing are his wife, Opal; four daughters, Mrs. James Orr of West Baden, Mrs. Ronald Woolsey and Mrs. James Fouche of French Lick, and Mrs. Steven Nicholson of Indianapolis; one son, Carrol Duane of Lexington, Kentucky, one foster sister, Mrs. Raymond Kerby of French Lick; 10 grandchildren, and several cousins and many friends.
Submitted by Robert Lane Sadie Wilson
The Paoli News, September 20, 1976
Services are being conducted Thursday for Mrs. Sadie Wilson, 87, West Baden, R. 1, who died at Orange County Hospital Tuesday morning shortly after being admitted. Rev. Max Toliver is officiating at services from Brosmer-Drabing Funeral Home and burial is in Ames Chapel Cemetery. She was a member of the Ames Chapel United Methodist Church. Surviving are a half-brother, Hiram Lashbrooks of Indianapolis, and two half-sisters, Mrs. Luella Flick and Mrs. June Brown, both of French Lick.
Submitted by Robert Lane Jesse Wilson
The Paoli Republican, November 28, 1967
Jesse Wilson, 81, retired carpenter, died Monday enroute from his Route 1, West Baden home to Orange County Hospital. Final rites will be held Wednesday afternoon at 2 in Ritter Funeral Home with burial at Ames Chapel Cemetery. Rev. Glenn McGuire and Rev. William Whipple will officiate at the services. He is survived by his wife, Mrs. Sadie Lashbrook Wilson and a sister, Mrs. Martha Pipher of Orleans. He also leaves nieces and nephews."
Submitted by Robert Lane Elsworth Sparks
A Paoli Newspaper, October 28, 1958
Funeral services for Elsworth Sparks are being held Thursday at Schmutzler Funeral Home in French Lick. Burial is in Ames Chapel Cemetery. Mr. Sparks, 92, died Monday night at the Gorge nursing home. An invalid for many years, Mr. Sparks was taken to the nursing home Sept. 22, after suffering a paralytic stroke. He was a native of Orange County, born Sept.16, 1866. He is survived by his wife, Mrs. Beatrice Felknor Sparks.
Submitted by Robert Lane Lawrence E. Love
The Progress-Examiner, October 1976
Lawrence E. Love was born Feb. 3, 1889 to William and Margaret Matherly Love and passed quietly away from this live Oct. 21, 1876 at the age of 87. He was married to Bernice Wilson, May 20, 1916, who preceded him in death Jan. 16, 1968. To this union 3 children were bon. They are William Lawrence, Orleans; Marjorie Tolbert, West Baden; Roy Don, Fulton, Missouri. Those of his family preceding him in death were 3 brothers, Herschel, Harry and Burrell, and one sister, Sally. Also one son-in-law, Merle Tolbert. Those remaining to mourn his passing with his children are 7 grandchildren: Rheta Love Terrell, Dorina Love Crews, John William Love, Linda Tolbert Purles, July Tolbert, Brett Love, Mark Love and 7 great-grandchildren and two daughters-in-law, Edith Love, Orleans and Carolyn Love, Fulton, Missouri, and one sister, Annis Alexander of Decatur, Illinois.
Submitted by Robert Lane Owen Clinton Ham
Newspaper and date unknown
And now I know
That Death is but the flaming torch
When angels bear it from its house of clay
Forth to the outer air, where it shall burn
Free and with undimmed radiance, evermore
This it is with Owen Clinton Ham, for whom Death held the torch to light the way into that realm where he is reunited with those he loved best. For him the "grave has no victory, death no sting," because it has brought him into eternal life and into a blissful reunion with a love companion. Owen Clinton Ham was born Aug. 9, 1861, near Orangeville, Ind., and passed peacefully to his reward Feb. 19, 1940, at his home in Paoli. He was the second son of Moses F. and Amanda Ham, and one of a family of eight children, including six sons and two daughters, of whom there are four survivors, he being the fourth to be called away. Lucy, the youngest sister, passed away in 1898, and since then, two brothers, Alvin B. and Charles M. have joined that 'immortal caravan' into the Great Beyond. The survivors are Edward W. of Indianapolis, John E. of Milburn, N.J. and Mrs. Elwood Osborne and George F. Ham of Paoli. In 1869 the family moved from the Orangeville community to a farm in the vicinity of Ames Chapel, and here Clint spent his boyhood and young manhood under the guidance of good Christian parents. Very early in life he became a member of the Methodist church at Ames Chapel, although in later years he transferred this membership to the Presbyterian church in Paoli, and was faithful in attending worship before being detained because of illness. Clint was first married to Miss Sarah Trueblood, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Hiram Trueblood, of this community, but while still in their youth this bond was severed by death as the wife was called to her eternal home. Several years later, May 26, 1897, he was married to Mrs. Ella Hudelson Rhodes, who was his beloved companion until called home Aug. 1, 1938. This passing of one who had so blest his life during their wedded years was a severe blow to the husband, and thereafter he was never quite the same because of the loss of this dear companion. Although during his last illness loving hands have tenderly cared for him, Clint had never ceased to fell keenly the loss of the wife and helpmate. With her passing, life had lost much of its joy, and he seemed to be living more in the future as if looking forward to that blessed reunion. For several years Owen C. Ham was connected with one of the local banks and was its president. He was well-known in banking circles throughout southern Indiana, and had a number of business connections in Paoli prior to that time. He was a man of good judgment and was looked up to by his business associates because of his ability, his honesty, and integrity. Although retired from active work, Clint continued to take an interest in affairs of the community and kept in touch with affairs of state and of the nation. The community has lost a good citizen. But we know that one who believed that his work was done has gone to his reward, leaving behind loved ones and a host of friends who will remember his good works and rejoice with him that he has joined that circle that is never broken.
Submitted by Robert Lane William Love
Newspaper and date unknown
William Love was born in Alamance County, North Carolina, September 23, 1819; died April 3, 1901; aged 81 years, 6 months and 10 days. He was the son of Thomas Love. His mother's maiden name was Ellen Faucett, sister of the late George Faucett. He was married to Lavina Isley of North Carolina, December 25, 1842, and moved to Indiana in the autumn of 1860, his wife dying in two weeks after his arrival. To this union six children were born, three of whom are living; Nancy J., wife of the late James Henley of Texas; Lizzie, wife of W. T. Wells of near Abydel; and Hopkins Love. He was married to his second wife, Susan Speer, daughter of the late Phillip Shively, Feb. 26, 1863, and to them three children were born, all living; Lydia, Thomas H. and Fanny C. His second wife died Nov. 22, 1869 and he was married to Mary Dougherty, April 7, 1870, and to them two children were born, Lena and Willie, both dead. His third wife died March 9, 1877, and he was married to Margaret Matherley, June 17, 1877, and to them six children were born, all living, and at home. He joined the New Light Church in his native state, but never put in his letter with any class in this county. He was a blacksmith by trade, a good, kind and loving husband and father. No father was more beloved and reverenced by his children than he. No one was more highly respected by his neighbors. He had no enemies. To know him was to love him. He always acted on the theory 'Do as you would be done by' to everybody; for during the war of the Rebellion no one was more ready to look after the women and children, leaving his work he would get wood, go to mill, do any work that might be brought to him and would never charge them for it. But with all of this, the messenger of death came and took him away, not as the rose in the morning, nor as one that was not prepared, but as a rose that had lived until late in the evening, and when the summons came he told his family that there was nothing to fear, he was ready. He is gone. We will no longer hear his voice around the family circle, encouraging and directing the affairs of the household, and talking so kindly to all his friends.
Lonesome companion and children; we know thy care,
None can fill his vacant chair
Husband and father is gone from home,
He is on a mission to a foreign shore
He comforted wife and children dear, with the thought that some day you may have a happy reunion in a world where farewells are never spoken. Memorial services were held at Ames Chapel, April 4, 1901, led by Rev. W. S. McCallister of Paoli, followed by Rev. Harvey of French Lick, M. F. Ham, J. P. Rominger, W. H. Porter, Mrs. Elizabeth Porter and H. G. Robbins, all speaking a word of comfort to the bereaved family, after which the remains were laid to rest in the beautiful cemetery, to await the resurrection morn.
Submitted by Robert Lane Harold L. Underwood
Newspaper and date unknown
Harold L. Underwood, son of Edward and Ethel Wilson Underwood, was born July 24, 1901 in Orange County. He owned and operated a service machine shop for 25 years in Prospect and was an expert in making and repairing mechanical equipment. A member of the National Rifleman's Association, he was widely known for his skill in repairing fire arms. On August 21, 1920 he was united in marriage to Ora Knight; to this union was born a daughter, Kathryn. In 1925 he joined Ames Chapel United Methodist Church where he served in various places of responsibility through the years and faithfully attended as long as health permitted. His Bible shows evidence of being much read and well marked as one who marks and studies his map in preparation for a very important journey. He lived God's Word, His Church and his God. A friend to the youth, he was Scoutmaster for 20 years of Troop 89 and received the Scout's highest award, the Silver Beaver, on May 28, 1964. In 1971 he was honored by his fellow citizens when presented with the Springs Valley Exchange Club's Book of Golden Deeds for his outstanding contributions to the community. On August 14th he completed his life's journey across this earth after 73 years and 3 weeks, leaving his wife, Ora; the daughter Mrs. Ed (Kathryn) Shannon of Owensboro, Kentucky; two granddaughters, Mrs. Robert (Suellyn Kay) Whelan of Chilicothe, Ohio and Mrs. Norman (Alice Marie) Ormiston of Cincinnati; twin great-granddaughters, a sister, Mrs. Harvey Condra of French Lick; other relatives and many friends.
Submitted by Robert Lane Mrs. Evelyn R. Abel
The Paoli News, February 28, 1980
Mrs. Evelyn R. Abel, 71, died from an apparent heart attack about 7:00 p.m. Tuesday at her home near West Baden. She was an active member of Ames Chapel United Methodist church and had served as correspondent for the Paoli News-Republican from her community since 1962. She was a former employee of Orange County Hospital. she was born Evelyn Wilson, born March 10, 1908, a daughter of Alonzo and Minnie Mae Toliver Wilson. in 1935 she married Cecil E. Abel, who died in May 1979. Surviving are a daughter, Mrs. Annamae Holiday of West Baden; two brothers, Harold Wilson of West Baden and Wayne Wilson of Mission, Kan.; and three grandchildren. Funeral services will be Friday at 2:00 p.m. from Ames Chapel, Rev. Howard Wardrip and Rev. Max Toliver officiating. Burial will be in the church cemetery.
Submitted by Robert Lane Cecil Earl Abel
Newspaper and date unknown
Funeral rites will be conducted at 2:00 p.m. Saturday from Ames Chapel for Cecil Earl Abel, 65, West Baden R1 resident who died at 1:30 a.m. Thursday at his home. Rev. Howard Wardrip, assisted by Rev. Max Toliver, will officiate at services and burial will be in the church cemetery under direction of Taber funeral home. He was a member of Ames Chapel church. He was a self-employed carpenter, who retired three years ago. Born Nov. 24, 1913 in West Baden, Mr. Abel was a son of Charles and Kate Ann Dickey Abel. On Sept. 28, 1935 he married Evelyn Rea Wilson, who survives. Also surviving are a daughter, Mrs. Annamaie Holiday, West Baden R1; four brothers, Paul, George, Fred and Harry Abel, all of West Baden; five sisters, Mrs. Grace McDonald of New Castle, Mrs. Maude Rominger of Paoli, Mrs. Roxie Ramey, Connersville, Mrs. Lucille Minton, Paoli, and Mrs. Helen Jones, South Bend; and three grandchildren.
Submitted by Robert Lane Bessie Lorene Beck Wilson
Newspaper and date unknown
Bessie Lorene Beck Wilson, daughter of William and Malinda Beck, was born Oct. 7, 1888 near Salem in Washington County, Indiana. On April 2, 1910, she was united in marriage to John Arthur Wilson. To his union were born nine children, Esther, now Mrs. Richard Newlin of Indianapolis, Ennis of Mitchell, Howard and Norman of Indianapolis, Roy Elvis of near French Lick, Norris Eugene of Fresno, Calif., Gladys, now Mrs. Forrest Kearby, who lives near Ames Chapel, Herman, a soldier in Germany, and Donald Lee, at home. Wednesday, March 11, 1953, at the dawn of a new day, she peacefully passed away at her home near Ames Chapel, leaving the devoted husband and dear children. She was always happy when they were home together and when she was doing for them. Besides the children above mentioned, she leaves two sons-in-law, six daughters-in-law, 15 grandchildren who all were so dear to her. In 1944 she was united with the Ames Chapel Methodist church and was a member of Women's Society of Christian Service, always loving to read her Bible and sing His hymns. For nearly 43 years she shared her joys and sorrows with her companion, rearing a large family wasn't easy. It has been said, God could not be everywhere, so He made mothers such as she: God gave us mother for awhile
Perhaps that we might see
A picture of the loveliness
That heaven is to be
A chair is vacant in our home
A voice we loved is still
A place is vacant in our hearts
That no one else can fill.
Submitted by Robert Lane Bessie Lorene Beck Wilson
Newspaper and date unknown
Again we have come to this sanctuary to pay our respects this one who has answered the Master's call and gone on to the realms of eternity. But by faith we know God is our refuge and a very present help in times such as this. John Arthur Wilson was born in Orange County, Indiana into the home of John Henry and Martha Isbelle Stackhouse Wilson on August 1, 1884 and departed this life August 30, 1969 at the age of 85 years and 29 days. he was married to Bessie Beck on April 2, 1910 and she proceeded him in death in March 1953. To this union were born nine children, Esther Newlin of Phoenix, Arizona, Ennis of Mitchell, Howard and Herman of Indianapolis, Elvis and Norman of French Lick, Gladys Kerby of West Baden, Don of West Baden with whom he made his home and Gene of California. Those who mourn his passing is the family and three sisters, Ora Abel and Ethel Underwood of French Lick, Blanche Scarlett of Indianapolis, thirty-two grandchildren and ten great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews. Members of his family who have passed on are four brothers, Claude, Raymond, William and Harry and one sister, Bernice Wilson Love. A sister Hollis and two brothers Reed and Emery died in childhood. He was a member of Ames Chapel Church since transferring his membership from Faucetts Chapel November 4, 1945. Arthur was a devoted and conscientious person who loved his family and his God. He took his duties of life with seriousness and hard, honest labor was no stranger to him. He, along with his devoted wife, toiled many long, hard hours to provide not only a place of shelter, of food, and of clothing, but a place where each member of the family could find love and security to strengthen them in life. Arthur believed in the old-fashioned way of salvation and had a strong faith in God's Word. Often he was heard to speak with a deep concern about his church. There is neither time nor space to record the many other things of his life that could be said of him which made him a cherished and well loved person. He has lived his life among us which has left it's eternal imprint. He has left his testimony both in words and in deeds and has gone out to meet the Lord. Our loved one has lived a full life and has been blessed with the companion and children he loved and labored for. His life was not spared of sorrow, hardships and suffering but God does not promise all will be sunshine, for according to His word, storm clouds will gather about us, but if we live closely to Him, He will take us by the hand and lead us on the fulfillment of His promises He has made known to us. Again we say we would not call him back to this life were it in our power to do so, for he had passed the Autumn and had lived far into the Winter of his life. Now he has gone from this life of suffering, trails and sorrows, into the place of everlasting life where "There is no need for the sun, neither of the moon to shine on it, for the Glory of God doth light it and the Lamb is the light thereof."
Submitted by Robert Lane Ora May Wilson Abel
Newspaper and date unknown
Ora May Wilson Abel, daughter of John Henry and Martha Isabelle Stackhouse Wilson, was born November 9, 1881, in Northwest Township, Orange County, Indiana. She was the eldest of a family of twelve children. She spent her entire life in the community in which she was born. On August 30, 1899, she was united in marriage to Perry Benton Able who preceded her in death on April 7, 1950. To this union three children were born, Horace Benton Able, deceased, Pauline Dorothy Jacobs, French Lick, Indiana, and Harry Boyd Abel, Louisville, Kentucky. In 1904 she consecrated herself to the service of her Master, becoming a member of the Faucetts Chapel Methodist Church. On October 21, 1956, she transferred her membership to Ames Chapel Methodist Church where she remained a faithful member and a devout Christian. She loved her family dearly, always seeking to do the things that would add to their happiness and comfort. For many months she had felt life gradually slipping away but came to the end of the journey unafraid. An honest, clean, upright life that honors God, as did our loved one, can only end in victory. When she heard the call "Well done thou good and faithful servant, enter into the joys of thy Lord," she was ready. On May 29, 1971, Mrs. Abel quietly and peacefully fell asleep to awake with the resurrection of the just, aged 89 years, 6 months and 20 days. She leaves to her family a rich heritage more lasting than silver and gold. She leaves to mourn her departure, the daughter, one son, six grandchildren, seventeen great grandchildren, two sisters, Mrs. Ethel Underwood, West Baden Springs, Indiana, and Mrs. Blanch Scarlett, Indianapolis, Indiana, nieces nephews and a host of friends.