April 2026
David Arthur Brisker -
David Arthur Brisker, 62, leaves to morn with wife, Michele (Sweeney) Brisker, son, Derrick Brisker; and sister, Joyce (Randy) Jacoby.
He was preceded in death by his son, Dustin Brisker.David was an avid fan of the Ohio State Buckeyes and had a deep love for history, especially military books. He enjoyed spending time outdoors, particularly taking his dog, Fredrick, on walks whenever he was able. He also found great joy in helping at the Huelskamp dairy farm, where he assisted with milking cows and general fieldwork.
Above all, David had a strong calling to ministry. He began his pastoral journey at Joy Church, then part of Sidney First Methodist Church. He went on to serve as pastor at Pasco Methodist Church, Fort Jefferson United Methodist Church. He was currently pastoring Lewisburg United Methodist Church, and whenever possible, he enjoyed assisting at Arcanum Faith United Methodist Church. His dedication to his faith and his congregations was a central and meaningful part of his life.
Funeral services will be held on Friday, April 24, 2026, at 7 P.M. at Cromes-Edwards Funeral Home with Pastor Chris Heckaman officiating. Visitation will be on Friday from 3 P.M. until the time of service. For Obituaty and to leave condolences click here.
Billy Francis Montgomery -
Billy Francis Montgomery, was born June 18, 1949 in Athens, Ohio the son of Francis R. and Freda E. (Harvey) Montgomery.
In recent years, he enjoyed serving as a preacher at the Calvary United Methodist Church in Bremen. He loved gardening, genealogy, his beloved Ohio State Buckeyes and Cincinnati Bengals, and especially loved his family and spending time with them.
Montgomery is survived by his wife of 45 years, Linda Lee (Matthews) Montgomery, whom he married June 7, 1980; daughters, Jennifer R. Storey of Columbus, Linda Kaye (Wes) Tatman of Sugar Grover and Rebecca J. (Tripp) Ruding of Ft. Myers, FL; sons, Phillip A. (Tammy Wegner) Montgomery and Michael T. (Heather) Montgomery, both of Lancaster; sister, Sela L. (Chris) Fannin of Jackson, OH; grandchildren, Alex, Ashton (Kim Woodfill), Zane (Jasmine Salazar) Hatten, Autumn (Dawson Collins), Landon, Hailey, Lincoln, Lilly, Michelle Montgomery and Julie Thomas; 4 great-grandkids, Avery Thomas, Ronin Thomas, Holland Fricker, and Myla Fricker.
He is preceded in death by his parents; infant son, Mark A. Montgomery; sister, Barbara G. Eisenhart of Obetz, OH; brother, John P. Montgomery of New Marshfield, OH; infant grandchildren, Robbie Storey and Nadine Storey; and niece, Melanie J Reeve of Albany, Ohio.
Services have previously been held. To read obituary, click here.
Contributions in Bill's memory may be made to any food pantry or program.
Rev. Mervyn L Matteson -
Rev. Mervyn Matteson is survived by his sister Morrita and brother-in-law Don Wolbert and children Mara, Miriam, Michael, and Matthew; grandchildren Paris, AJ, and Maya Matteson and Samuel and Cecilia Garcia; five great-grandchildren; nieces, nephews, cousins, and many friends.
Mervyn Louis Matteson was born in Marion, Ohio, to Mildred Scott Matteson and Morris Kimball Matteson on January 16, 1938. Mervyn grew up in Marion, starting school in first grade at Farming Street Elementary and graduating from Harding High School in 1958. He earned his bachelor’s degree at Otterbein College in Westerville, where he met and married his wife of over 55 years, Martha Deever Matteson. They began their married life together in Dayton as Mervyn earned his Master of Divinity degree at United Theological Seminary in Dayton while serving as youth pastor at Fairview Evangelical United Brethren Church.
An ordained United Methodist pastor in the West Ohio Conference, Mervyn served United Methodist churches in Moline, Woodville, Dayton, Perrysburg, Pataskala, and Loveland, retiring in 2000 and moving to Columbus in 2002. There he was a steadfast and vital member of Maynard UMC until it closed and later worshipped at Gethsemane Lutheran Church and Rose Run Presbyterian Church.
Merv’s lifelong passions included singing, playing his euphonium, bicycling, all of which he managed to work into his service of the Lord, through choirs, brass ensembles, and 25 years of leading high-school students on weeklong bicycle tours through the West Ohio Camping ministry. Gracious, kind, thoughtful, generous, and loving, Mervyn was a proud father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and an unfailing aid to those in need of help. In retirement, he played in the Clintonville Community band, cared for Martha throughout her 19-year battle with Parkinson’s, sang with the Parkinson’s Tremble Clefs, served as a poll worker, and took great pride in caring for his lawn.
A memorial service to celebrate Merv’s life will be held Saturday May 16th at Rose Run Presbyterian Church, 5220 Johnstown Rd., New Albany OH, 43054. Visitation will be from 10 am-11 am, with the service at 11 am followed by lunch.
Click here to read his obituary.
Rev. William T. Tolliver, Jr. -
Rev. William T. Tolliver was born in Nashville, Wisconsin in a one room log cabin. Son of the late Correna “Corda” Blevins Poynter (Calvert Poynter) and William T. Tolliver, Sr. Predeceased by sisters Myrliah (Wendell) Ison, Beulah (John) Dreblow, Jenny (Clester) Cox, and Aleta Tolliver. Survived by wife of 70 years Emma Lee Tolliver, children Sharon (Mark) Groves, Kim Tolliver (Jeanette Belz), William (Diana) T. Tolliver, III. Grandchildren Julie Houston, Andrew Houston, Micheal Tolliver, Matt (Katie) Tolliver, Maria Fernanda Tolliver and great-grandson G.T. Tolliver.
Graduate of Frenchburg, Kentucky Presbyterian Mission School where he was awarded the Outstanding Boy of Kentucky Award, 3rd place in Kentucky for Serious Monologues, sang in the All-Kentucky State Chorus and selected to meet Mr. JC Penney through the Allied Youth Program promoting alcohol abstinence.
Attended Asbury College (1951-1955), majoring in speech and dramatics and minoring in French and English. He moved to Dayton, Ohio where he taught English and speech for two years while also preaching at a nearby church.
Rev. Tolliver graduated from United Theological Seminary in Dayton, Ohio in 1960 and was ordained into the Methodist Church. He served many churches through Ohio including Van Buren Street (Dayton) Methodist Church, South Point (1960-1963) and Heath (1963-1967).
From 1967-1969, Rev. Tolliver took a leave of absence and moved to Dayton so Emma Lee could complete her bachelor’s in education at Wright State University. During this time, he worked at a tool and die shop and pursued a master’s in counseling and guidance at Wright State University.
He returned to the ministry and served Amelia United Methodist Church (1969-1974), East North Broadway UMC (Columbus 1974-1980), Canal Winchester (1980-1983), Maynard Ave. (Columbus 1983-1990), Walnut Hill (Columbus 1990-1993), and Cedar Hill/Hoy UMC (1993-1995).
Rev. Tolliver retired from active ministry in 1995 and enjoyed hobbies including carpentry, hunting, fishing, gardening, and bee keeping.
As a member of the Columbus Central Ohio Beekeepers and with his friend John Schreiber (deceased) he built beehives, responded to bee swarms, sold honey through Weilands in Columbus, Ohio and at one point had 45 hives throughout central Ohio. He was awarded the Beekeeper of the Year in 2010 for outstanding service to Central Ohio Beekeeper’s Association. He enjoyed sharing his knowledge of bees and helping promote the art of bee keeping.
Visitation will be Tuesday, April 14th from 10-noon at the Maple Grove United Methodist Church, Columbus, Ohio with services immediately following at noon in the church sanctuary with Rev. Jeremy Moyers presiding. Burial will be in Perryville, Kentucky on April 16th.
To share memories and condolences, click here for the tribute wall.
March 2026
Rev. Franklin Rowe -
Rev. Frank Rowe was a Retired Elder in the United Methodist Church, serving Genoa (T) 1950; North Baltimore (T) 1959; St Mark's (L) 1962; Linden (CN) 1969; Zanesville Grace (N) 1974; Bryan Wesley (D) 1980; and as Superintendent of the Athens District, 1986 until he retired.
Frank was married to Beverly Hessey Rowe for 72 years until her death in 2020. Along with Beverly, he is predeceased by his parents, siblings, Myrtle Lutterbein and Mary Lois Costa, and his son, John and granddaughter, Allison. He is survived by daughter-in-law Teri (Rowe) Roubal who together with Frank’s son, John, had five children, Julie (Brad) Luczywo, Isaac (Silvia) Rowe, Samuel Rowe, Joanna Rowe, and Susanna (Jack) Yoder. He is also survived by Steve (Lauri) Rowe and their five children, Nathan (Amanda) Rowe, Andrew (Megan DeHaan) Rowe, Peter (Kate Martin) Rowe, Ginny (Sean) Nightingale, and Seth (Julie) Rowe.
After retirement, Frank and Beverly traveled in their camper and participated in many United Methodist ‘Volunteers in Mission’ projects. He enjoyed a broad spectrum of activities during his adult life – camping, golfing, gardening, woodworking, bowling, horseshoes, fishing, bridge and visiting grandchildren.
Frank and Bev lived happily at Willow Brook Christian Village for 10 years and then Frank continued his residence there until his death. Frank and Bev created a personal ministry there where Frank delivered zinnias (grown in his garden) and chocolates on residents’ birthdays. The family is thankful for the extraordinary care and support Frank received from staff and fellow residents at Willow Brook.
A celebration of life will be held for Frank and Bev in the Terrace Room at Willow Brook Christian Village, 100 Willow Brook Way S., Delaware, Ohio on April 25, 2026. The family will greet friends at 10:00 am and Celebration of Life will follow at 11:00 am. In lieu of memorial gifts and in honor of Frank and Bev, take flowers or chocolates to someone who might not be expecting them on their next birthday.
Ruth Eileen Waite -
Ruth Eileen Waite, spouse of Rev. Jeffrey L. Waite.
Along with her husband, Waite is survived by her children, Matt (Elizabeth Scott) Waite, Sarah (Bryan) Smink, Mary Beth (Jonathon) McElwain; grandchildren Skylar McElwain, Hanna Smink, Serenity McElwain, Gretchen Smink, and Mason Waite; sister Zoe Sheehan; faithful companion Smokey; and many other family and friends.
Ruth’s life was filled with love and service to others. She demonstrated her faith and commitment to the Lord in her everyday actions. She worked for over 40 years as a math teacher, caring for the youth of the next generation. She obtained her master’s degree in education from The University of Findlay. When she wasn’t at work, Ruth loved to do needle crafts, garden, read, and host her family for gatherings.
Those closest to Ruth always knew what she was thinking by her expressions and facial gestures. Her presence brought comfort, laughter, and encouragement to everyone who was fortunate to know her. Ruth’s spirit will live on through her family and friends, into whom she poured her love. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered in the hearts of all that loved her.
Services have previously been held. Click here to read obituary.
Rev. Walter Owen Delp -
The Rev. Walter Owen Delp, Jr. age 97, passed away peacefully on Friday Mar. 10, 2026 at Wesley Ridge Retirement Center, Reynoldsburg, OH.
Rev. Delp was born Feb. 10, 1929 in Dayton Ohio to the late Walter and Ruth (Good) Delp. In 1950, he married his high school sweetheart, Armetha Stebbins, who preceded him in death. He is survived by his five children, Jim (Susan) Delp, Anita (Roger) Criblez, Ed (Liz) Delp, Keith (Diane) Delp, and Beth (Tom) Yates, as well as 12 grandchildren and 21 great grandchildren.
Rev. Delp graduated from Otterbein College in 1951 and later received his Master of Divinity from United Theological Seminary in Dayton. He was pastor of Troy Street Church for seven years, then of St. Marks E.U.B Church in Fairfield OH for nine. His ministry continued as he served as Program Council Director in the E.U.B Ohio Miami Conference for three years. Following the merger with the Methodist Church, Owen served on the Conference Program Staff for seventeen years in various capacities including Conference Director of Evangelism, Coordinator of Camping, Local and District Consultant, Administrative Officer of the Mission Society, as well as the West Ohio Conference Secretary for three years. He was honored to be elected as a delegate to five General Conferences and seven North Central Jurisdictional Conferences. He concluded his forty-two years in the ministry as Superintendent of the Portsmouth District of the West Ohio Conference.
A Celebration of Life service will be held Sunday, May 3, 2026 at 3:00 p.m. in the Kimes Chapel at Wesley Ridge, 2225 Taylor Park Dr., Reynoldsburg, OH. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service.
Online condolences may be made at www.spencefuneralhome.com.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to support missions at Wesley Ridge by clicking here.
Rev. James Meredith -
Rev. Meredith was a Full Elder in the United Methodist Church, serving Vandalia Assoc (DN) 1976; Versailles-Webster Charge (DN) 1977; Jackson Center (DN) 1981; Eden Chapel (C) 1986; Jeffersonville (CS) 1990; and Groveport (CS) 2001 before retiring.
He is survived by his wife, Mrs. Rikki Meredith, and condolences will reach her at 174 Kramer St., Canal Winchester, Ohio 43110.
Visitation will be on Friday, March 6, 2026, from 12:00 – 2:00 pm at the Dwayne R. Spence Funeral Home, 650 West Waterloo Street, Canal Winchester. The service will follow at 2:00 pm at the funeral home.
Obituary Link, once it is available.
February 2026
Rev. John Osborn -
Rev. John Osborn was a Full Elder in the United Methodist Church, serving New Winchester (OH Sandusky Conf) 1967; Church of the Master Assoc (CN) 1972; Prospect (F) 1975; Monroe Street Assoc (T) 1979; Mason (W) 1982; Sulphur Grove (DN) 1988; as Superintendent of the Cincinnati District 1994; Marysville (S) 1999; and Middletown First (DS) 2001, before retiring in 2011.
He is survived by his wife Donna Osborn, and daughters Erin Remias and Emily Cunningham and their families.
A memorial service will be held at Powell United Methodist Church on Friday, April 17, at 11:00 am. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service. A lunch will follow the service and all are invited to stay.
Once it becomes available, a complete obituary will be posted here. Condolences can be sent to Mrs. Donna Osborn, 300 Stonebend Drive, Powell, Ohio 43065.
Patricia Jo Sisson Morris -
Patricia Morris is the former spouse of Rev. David Sisson who served the West Ohio Conference of the United Methodist Church before his passing,
Pat’s strong faith in God was the foundation of her life. It guided her decisions, shaped her character, and carried her through both joyful seasons and difficult days.
Her faith was not only something she believed, but something she lived daily through quiet acts of service, steadfast prayer, and a heart always ready to help someone in need. She gave generously of her time, her energy, and her love, rarely seeking recognition. Her family was her greatest joy.
Pat poured herself into her children, grandchildren, and great grandchild, always putting their needs above her own. She celebrated their accomplishments, supported them through challenges, and showed her love in countless practical ways—through Dairy Queen runs, rides given, conversations shared, and prayers spoken faithfully on their behalf. She cherished every moment spent with them and made each one feel deeply known and loved.
She was also a devoted hairstylist for more than 50 years, and a business owner for 17 years. Pat treasured the relationships she built with her clients, many of whom became lifelong friends. More than a stylist, she was a listener, an encourager, and a steady presence for anyone who sat in her chair.
She was preceded in death by her first husband, Rev, David Edwin Sisson; her second husband, Robert F. Morris, Sr.; and her parents, Joseph Osten Glassner and Shirley JoAnn Glassner.
Prior to Rev. David Sisson's passing, he and Pat served the West Ohio Conference in ministry to First UMC in Athens and Northwest UMC in Columbus.
Pat is survived by her daughter, Cara (Jason) Adams; her son, Jonathan (Danielle) Sisson; and her daughter, Amy (Mansour) Mathlouthi. She was a proud and loving grandmother to Connor, Brooke, Jonathan (Bri), Cailey, Ethan, Christian, Noah, Eleanor, and AJ, and great grandmother to Oliver. She is also survived by her sisters, Susan Glassner, Lynn (Greg) Donaldson, and Tammy (Steve Mould) Glassner, along with a host of other cousins and dear friends.
Visitation will be held on Sunday, March 1, 2026, 1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. at Rutherford-Corbin Funeral Home, 515 High Street, Worthington, Ohio 43085. A funeral service will take place at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, March 2, 2026, at Upper Arlington Lutheran Church, Mill Run Campus, 3500 Mill Run Drive, Hilliard, Ohio 43026. A luncheon will follow the service.
Click here for obituary and tribute wall.