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

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

03/09/2026

Sylvia Marie (Brewer) Davidson, 84, of Cambridge and formerly of Loveland, passed away peacefully at her home on Sunday (March 8, 2026).

Born April 7, 1941, in Evarts, Kentucky, she was the daughter of the late Spurgeon and Ethel (Hibberd) Brewer. Sylvia worked for many years at RCA, where she formed lasting friendships and took pride in her work.

Sylvia loved spending time outdoors, especially camping with her family, and she cherished the many trips she took traveling across the United States. Her sense of adventure and love of togetherness created memories her family will hold close forever.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by two brothers and six sisters.

She is survived by her devoted husband, Roy Davidson, whom she married on November 19, 1964; her son, Ron Bolton of Cambridge; two grandchildren, Katie Miller and Laura (Joe) Fey; and her great grandchildren, Haley, Rylynn, Gracelynn, Marilynn, and Kaitlynn, all of whom brought her immense joy.

Graveside services and burial will take place at Northwood Cemetery in Cambridge on Friday (March 13, 2026) at 11 a.m. with Darrell Miller and Justin Miller officiating.

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

03/02/2026

Kara Jane (Wray) Meek, 78, of Cambridge and formerly of Byesville, passed away on Sunday (March 1, 2026) at AlterCare of Cambridge, surrounded by her family.

Born August 6, 1947, in Cambridge, she was the daughter of the late Virgil Wray and Virginia (Hogan) Wray. A 1965 graduate of Meadowbrook High School, Kara dedicated many years of service to Ametek March Electric before retiring. She was also a licensed cosmetologist and spent five years sharing her talents with the residents of Beckett House.

Kara found joy in reading and working crossword puzzles, often with a Pepsi nearby. She had a special love for her dog, Weez, who was her constant companion.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her brothers, Terry Wray and Nikki Wray.

She leaves behind her son, William Gerry (Samantha) Meek Jr.; four grandchildren, Carol (Cory) Rose, Billy Webb, Derrek (Kaylyn) Webb, and Lewis (Marnie) Webb; and five great grandchildren, Blaise, Zelda, Olivia, Brayden, and Bentley. She is also survived by her brother, Randy Wray, and her sister, Beth Wray.

Visitation will be held Thursday (March 5, 2026) from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. at Black-Epperson Funeral Home, Byesville, where funeral services will follow at 7:00 p.m.

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

02/27/2026

Vera J. (Robinson) Paden, 84, of Old Washington, passed away Thursday, February 26, 2026, at Grant Medical Center in Columbus.

Born May 4, 1941, in Tuscarawas County, she was the daughter of the late Thomas Robinson Jr. and Mildred R. (Sanders) Robinson. She was a 1960 graduate of Gnadenhutten Local High School.

Vera worked at NCR for several years before joining the East Guernsey School District, where she served as a cook and later in the custodial department until her retirement. She was known for her strong work ethic, her kindness, and the pride she took in supporting the students and staff she served.

A devoted farmer’s wife, Vera found joy in the rhythms of rural life. She was an exceptional cook, a talented quilter, and someone whose sense of humor could brighten any room. She loved playing cards—especially Euchre, at which she excelled—and she cherished every opportunity to babysit for the children of her family and friends. Those who knew her best will remember her warmth, her generosity, and the way she made everyone feel welcome. She was Methodist by faith.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Bernard R. Paden, who passed away June 14, 2002. They were married on June 21, 1963. She was also preceded in death by five siblings and their spouses: Charles (Marie) Robinson, Erma (Cliff) Reneker, Helen (Jack) Haga, and Doris (Don) McComb; an infant brother, Howard; and a brother in law, Jack Walton.

Vera is survived by her children: Larry (Barbara) Paden of Old Washington, Dale (Christy) Paden of Salesville, and Lisa Lawrence of Old Washington; her brother, Ray (Wilma) Robinson of Port Washington; her sister, Joyce Walton of Tuscarawas; and her sister in law, Virginia Robinson. She leaves behind her beloved grandchildren—Derek Lawrence, Stephanie Murray, Kelsey (Talon) Thomas, Emily Paden, Steele Paden, Carson Paden, Carter Paden, and Madison Paden—and two great grandchildren, Bexley Thomas and Emery Thomas. She is also survived by several nieces and nephews, along with her close friend, Janice Lehman.

Graveside services and burial will take place at Old Washington Cemetery on Thursday, March 5, 2026, at 1 p.m., with Evangelist Mark Beros officiating.

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

02/24/2026

Dianna L. (King) Reasoner, 75, of Derwent, passed away Sunday (February 22, 2026) at the Morrison House, Zanesville.

She was born June 29, 1950 in Cambridge, daughter of the late Virgil King and Mildred (Abrams) King.

Dianna was a graduate of Meadowbrook High School. She had worked at Hamilton Beach as well as a maid at Deer Creek for several years. Most importantly, she stayed at home with her grandchildren – times that she treasured dearly.

She was a member of Harmony Christian Church.

Dianna loved flowers, gardening, and her yearly camping trips. She also enjoyed listening to country music, shopping for her family, sitting on porch swing, and watching TV Land.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Charles “Chuck” Reasoner, who passed away August 8, 2022. They were married in 1968. Also deceased is one brother.

Dianna is survived by four sons, Charles “Chuck” Reasoner Jr. of Derwent, David W. Reasoner of Derwent, Timothy A. Reasoner of Senecaville, and Danny W. Reasoner of Cambridge; a brother, Rick King of Cambridge; a sister, Dena Mills of Byesville; seven grandchildren, Tommy, Lindy, Brennan (& Aaliyah), Cody (& Destiny), Kianna (& Brent), Kelsey (& Larry), and Charlie; twelve great-grandchildren, Bowe, Cherry-Lynn, Gracie, Leon, Noel, River, Aiden, Addison, Carson, Carter, Lyla, and Cable plus another great-grandchild on the way; and several nieces & nephews.

Visitation will be held Friday (February 27, 2026) from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Black-Epperson Funeral Home, Byesville.

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

Black-Epperson Funeral Homes

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