Springer-Voorhis-Draper Funeral Home

04/27/2026

04/24/2026

Visiting a grief support group can help you in your grief journey, but what should you expect when you go? Read the article below to learn what your experience at a grief support group might look like.

Visiting a grief support group for the first time can be intimidating. Learn what to expect by reading this article!

04/22/2026

Exercising can boost your mood by helping to ease negative thoughts! In this article, discover how exercise and therapy offer similar benefits for your mental health.

A recent research review shows that exercise may be nearly as effective as therapy in managing depression. However, experts caution that exercise should be an adjunctive treatment for depression and not a replacement for therapy.

04/22/2026

Lottie A. Kinser

Lottie A. Kinser, 100, of Monticello, passed away on Sunday, April 19, 2026 at her residence surrounded by her family.

She was born on March 12, 1926 in Wolcott to the late Ralph L Rice and Helen (Martin) Rice. On October 31, 1942 she married Robert G. Kinser in Lafayette. He preceded her in death on June 10, 2015.

Lottie had worked at Bryan Manufacturing, RCA, and at Kinser's Bakery helping her son, Bob and daughter-in-law, Pat. She also operated a ceramic shop from her home for several years. She was a charter member of the First Baptist Church in Monticello and a former member of the Eagles for many years.

She enjoyed quilting, knitting and crocheting, crafts, and baking. She mowed her own lawn and took care of her flowers until the age of 99. She passed the eye test and renewed her driver's license two years ago even though she never drove again.

She is survived by daughter, Connie Kernodle of Bedford; daughter-in-law, Pat Kinser of Monticello; grandchildren, Stephanie (Kevin) Waters of Lebanon, Helen (John) Dennis of Clarks Hill, J.O. (Lisa) Kernodle of Lebanon, Eric Kinser (fiance, Liz Griffith) of Monticello, Suzanne Tank of Monticello; fourteen great grandchildren; and thirty-nine great-great grandchildren.

In addition to her parents, Lottie was preceded in death by her son, Robert W. Kinser, son-in-law, James Kernodle, granddaughter, Carrie Kernodle, grandson, Richard Kernodle, and her sister, Barbara Wright.

Funeral services celebrating Lottie's life will be 1:00 pm Friday, April 24, 2026 at Springer-Voorhis-Draper Funeral Home of Monticello with pastor, Ian McMillian officiating.

Friends may call two hours prior to services on Friday at the funeral home.

Burial will follow in Bedford Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be given to the First Baptist Church of Monticello with envelopes available at the funeral home.

Friends and family are encouraged to share a photo, a memory, or messages of condolence at www.springervoorhisdraper.com

Springer-Voorhis-Draper Funeral Home of Monticello is entrusted with care.

View Lottie A. Kinser's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

04/21/2026

James D. Ward

James D. Ward, 65, of Monticello, passed away on Saturday, April 18, 2026 at his residence.

He was born on May 13, 1960 in Monticello to the late Maurice Ward and Jessie (Benjamin) Klophenstein.

He was a graduate of Twin Lakes High School. He became a "Jack of all trades". Jim loved the outdoors and liked to fish, hunt and bicycle. He was a collector of many things. He was truly a free spirit.

He is survived by daughter, Jamie D. Ward (fiancé, Cody Combs) of Black Hawk, CO; two sons, Adam Ward of Bellevue, WA, Jacob Ward of Marion, IN; three sisters, Connie Alma, Nancy Gosnell, Janice Abbott; brother, Charlie Ward and sister-in-law, Darla Ward.

In addition to his parents, he was also preceded in death by brothers, Maurice, Timothy, Bruce and Nathan Ward; brothers-in-law, Warren Alma and Tim Gosnell.

Visitation will be from 11:00 am until the time of services at 1:00 pm on Thursday, April 23, 2026 at Springer-Voorhis-Draper Funeral Home of Monticello.

Burial will follow in Bedford Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made payable to the funeral home to help offset expenses. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home.

Friends and family are encouraged to share a photo, a memory, or messages of condolence at www.springervoorhisdraper.com

Springer-Voorhis-Draper Funeral Home of Monticello is entrusted with care.

View James D. Ward's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

04/20/2026

Donald E. Leonard

Donald E. Leonard, 83, was born on April 26, 1942, and passed away on April 16, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family and the faith that guided his life. A devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, Don’s steady presence, generous spirit, and quiet strength shaped everyone who had the privilege of knowing him.

Raised in Sheridan, Indiana, Don learned early the values that would define his life: hard work, humility, and looking out for others. He carried those values into adulthood-into his family, his career, and his church-living with a deep belief that our lives are meant to be poured out in service.

Don earned his degree from Purdue University as a Civil Engineer, then served his country in the United States Army through Selective Service. He took pride in doing things well, and that showed in every part of his life-from his work ethic to his skills as an expert marksman with an M14.

Don dedicated 54 years to the Indiana State Highway, helping design and build many of the roads and bridges that Hoosiers still travel every day. His work was never about recognition; it was about making life better and safer for others. If you’ve ever crossed a bridge without thinking twice, or driven a familiar stretch of Indiana road, you may have benefited from Don’s lifetime of careful, faithful labor.

Above all, Don loved his family. He was married to the love of his life, Nancy E. Leonard, since 1974. Together they built a home marked by commitment, laughter, and unwavering support.

Don is survived by his wife, Nancy E. Leonard; his two sons, Donald Earl Leonard (Lisa Leonard) and Daniel Eric Leonard (Aurora Leonard); seven grandchildren-Brandyn, Bryan, Bryana, Giavannah, Annabella, Amelia, and Austin; and one great-grandchild, Mila.

He is also survived by his siblings, Nancy Tansy (Robert) and Mary Lowder, along with many cherished nieces and nephews.

Don was preceded in death by his parents, Clayborne “Jack” Leonard and Emalou Leonard.

Those who knew Don will remember a man who loved deeply and lived his faith sincerely. He was actively involved in his church and believed in showing up-praying, serving, encouraging, and supporting others in both big and small ways. Don had a gift for making people feel seen and cared for, and his kindness left a lasting imprint on friends, neighbors, coworkers, and family alike.

Funeral services celebrating Don’s life will be a 2pm on Saturday, April 25, 2026 at the Monticello United Methodist Church with Rev. Justin Cason officiating. The funeral service will commence with military rites. Friends may call at the church from 11am until 2pm on Saturday at the church.

Memorial contributions are encouraged to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, The Heart Foundation, or to the White County Food Pantry.

Don’s life was a testament to faithful love-love of God, love of family, and love of people. While we grieve his passing, we also give thanks for a life well lived, and we hold onto the promise that we will see him again.

Friends and family are encouraged to share a photo, a memory, or messages of condolence at www.springervoorhisdraper.com

Springer-Voorhis-Draper Funeral Home of Monticello is entrusted with care.

View Donald E. Leonard's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

04/17/2026

If you have a loved one entering hospice care, there are likely many questions on your mind about their care. One of those concerns may pertain to medical supplies and equipment. Where do they come from? Does hospice provide them? Click the link to learn more as you prepare to care for your loved one in their final days.

Not sure whether hospice care provides medical equipment and supplies? Check out this article to get your questions answered!

04/15/2026

Ben Franklin had many accomplishments in his lifetime, including inventing many useful items. This article lists 9 inventions, some of which are well-known and others that might surprise you!

The lightning rod is just one way Franklin improved daily life.

04/13/2026

Ralph Larry Jennings

Ralph Larry Jennings, 84, of Monticello, passed away on Thursday, April 9, 2026 at his home.

He was born on January 12, 1942 in Lafayette to the late Walter and Ethel (Schultz) Jennings. On November 24, 1963 he married the former Linda Foutch who grew up in Wolcott at the St. James Lutheran Church in Reynolds. She survives.

Ralph was a lifetime member of St. James Lutheran Church in Reynolds. He was a 1960 graduate of Monticello High School and served in the National Guard. He was a farmer his entire life, farming close to where he grew up. He lived in town for five years while waiting to buy a farm close to his parent's farm where he lived the rest of his life. During off time and through the winter, he worked part time at Kenny Implement. After his stint with the implement company, he worked at Tall Timbers Marina. He raised Orville Redenbacher popcorn for nearly 50 years.

He enjoyed watching his sons show sheep in the White County 4-H Fair and working on the arena committee for several years. He was given the Outstanding Young Farmer award by Monticello Jaycees. He also enjoyed watching his sons play sports as well as his granddaughters. Ralph and Linda liked to winter in Florida. He returned home just prior to his passing.

In addition to his wife, Linda he is survived by son, Keven Jennings (companion, Janet Fox) of Lafayette; granddaughters, Lauren (Blake) Vanderbush and Mikaela (William) Riggert; great grandsons, Yale and Wright Vanderbush; and several nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, he was also preceded in death by a son, Phillip Jennings, brothers, Donald and Fred Jennings; and sisters Zelda Jennings, Ruth Dahlenburg and Shirley Jennings.

Visitation will be from 11:00 am until the time of services at 1:00 pm Saturday, April 18, 2026 at St. James Lutheran Church in Reynolds with Pastor Andrew Keller officiating.

Private burial will be at a later date.

Memorial contributions are encouraged to St. James Lutheran Church in Reynolds with envelopes available at the church.

Friends and family are encouraged to share a photo, a memory, or messages of condolence at www.springervoorhisdraper.com

Springer-Voorhis-Draper Funeral Home of Monticello is entrusted with care.

View Ralph Larry Jennings's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

04/10/2026

Grief can sometimes feel disjointed - a cry here, a burst of anger there; a deep sadness today, a crush of guilt tomorrow. In this article, Dr. Alan Wolfelt, renowned author and grief counselor, urges us to trust the process of grief. As you surrender to the mystery, your experience of love and grief will create a changed you. A you who has not only survived but who has learned to thrive again in a new form and in a new way. Click the link to learn more!

In our lives, we all participate in rituals. To learn more about the healing aspects of rituals, take a few moments to read this article.