🧹 Clean slate chronicles

Robert W. Brown

Robert W. Brown, 77, of Canton, Ohio, passed away on April 11, 2025, at Mercy Medical Center. He was a retired aircraft mechanic from USAir, a veteran of the U.S. Air Force, and enjoyed boating, motorcycles, and sporting events. Robert is survived by his wife Janet, and was preceded in death by his parents and siblings William and Bridget. Known for his kindness and willingness to help others, Robert requested no services, but donations may be made to the American Heart Association or Kidney Foundation in his memory.

Paul L. Faulkner

Paul Leroy Faulkner, 63, passed away on April 9, 2025, after being born in Alliance on February 11, 1962, to William R. and Patricia E. Faulkner. A West Branch High School attendee, he enjoyed yard work, bicycle tinkering, and caring for his many pets over the years. He is survived by his seven siblings, an aunt, numerous nieces and nephews, and his caregiver brother-in-law, while being preceded in death by his parents, brother James, and sister Donna. A private family service was held to honor his memory.

Michael Douglas Bernhardt

Michael Douglas Bernhardt passed away on April 13, 2025, at the age of 76, and is survived by his wife Sandy, four children, nine grandchildren, two brothers, and many friends. Born on May 2, 1948, to Robert and Virginia Bernhardt, he was a devoted family man whose loved ones expressed gratitude for the care provided by Crossroads Hospice. A visitation will be held on April 16, 2025, at Lamiell Funeral Home in Canton, followed by a service and interment at Forest Hill Cemetery. His family remembers him fondly and takes comfort in their belief that he is now with Jesus Christ, whom they describe as his Lord and Savior.

Ervin Bradford

Ervin Bradford, a 77-year-old resident of Millersburg, Ohio, passed away on April 14, 2025. No immediate information about his surviving family members has been provided. The Heritage Cremation & Burial Society is currently seeking to locate his next of kin. Anyone with information about Mr. Bradford's family is requested to contact the funeral home at (330)875-5770. Funeral arrangements are pending until family members can be notified.

Clarence Lowman Jr.

Clarence Lowman, Jr. died on April 11, 2025, after battling cancer, having been born in Caldwell, Ohio in 1939 as the youngest of eight children. He worked as a metalworker at Diebold, Inc. and Union Metal while also pursuing his passion as a musician, playing guitar and piano for various bands throughout his life. Clarence is survived by his wife of 63 years, May, along with his three children, five grandchildren, and five great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, siblings, infant son Ron, and great-granddaughter Genevieve.

Paul R. Myers

Paul R. Myers, 88, of Beach City passed away on April 14, 2025 at his home. After working for Nelson Tree Service, he spent 30 years with Verizon before retiring. Paul was a devoted man of faith who helped found Faith Baptist Missionary Church in Wilmot and served in various church roles. He enjoyed traveling to West Virginia, spending time with family, bluegrass gospel music, beekeeping, and hunting. Paul is survived by his wife Ruby, four children, seven grandchildren, 15 great-grandchildren, and five siblings.

Bonita Lynn Shuman

Bonita "Bonnie" Lynn Shuman, born October 2, 1956, passed away peacefully on April 3rd surrounded by family. She was predeceased by her mother Elizabeth, husband Dirk, four sisters, one brother, and a son-in-law, and is survived by her sister Jean, five children and their spouses, sixteen grandchildren, and fourteen great-grandchildren. Known for her vibrant spirit and welcoming nature, Bonnie created a home filled with warmth, laughter, and delicious cooking. Her life exemplified love and resilience, leaving a lasting legacy in the hearts of all who knew her.

James W. Anderson Sr.

James W. Anderson Sr., age 63, passed away on April 11, 2025, leaving behind his three sons, multiple siblings, and extended family. Born in Alliance on August 28, 1961, he attended Marlington High School and later worked at Marlboro Manufacturing. He was passionate about outdoor activities like hunting, fishing, and camping, and was a devoted Pittsburgh Steelers fan. A funeral service will be held at Cassaday-Turkle-Christian Funeral Home on April 16th with visitation beforehand.

Joanne Stuples

Joanne Stuples, 88, of North Canton, passed away on April 11th at Mercy Hospital. She was preceded in death by her parents, three husbands, her son Michael, and a special cousin. Joanne was a devoted family woman with strong Christian faith who served as a prayer warrior with the Jerusalem Prayer Team. She is survived by five children, 11 grandchildren, numerous great-grandchildren, and other family members and friends. Memorial donations may be made to the Jerusalem Prayer Team in her honor.

James Edward Betty II

James E. Betty II, 76, of Canal Fulton, passed away on April 4, 2025. He was a dedicated golf coach at Coventry High School for 14 years and an instructor for First Tee Akron and the Edwin Shaw Challenge Golf Course, which serves individuals with disabilities. Jim also owned a garage door company, worked for Starbucks, and was a longtime member of Narcotics Anonymous. He enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren, golfing, and Harley Davidsons, and is survived by his sons, grandchildren, stepchildren, and nieces.

Eileen R. Smith

Eileen R. Smith, 87, passed away on April 13, 2025, joining her late husband David F. Smith. Born in 1937 in Garrison, PA, she served as Vice President at Smith Machine Inc. for 50 years before working in a school cafeteria. She was an active member of Sebring Friends Church where she played piano, and enjoyed bowling, traveling, and motorcycle riding. Eileen is survived by her two sons, six grandchildren, six great-grandchildren, and a sister-in-law, with a funeral service scheduled for April 18th at Cassaday-Turkle-Christian Funeral Home.

Santa LaSelva

Santa LaSelva, 99, of Canton, passed away at home surrounded by family. Born in Italy to Giacomo and Luigia LaSelva, she was preceded in death by her husband of 55 years, Tommaso D'Addabbo, and her sister Caterina. She is survived by her children Leda Palomba and Gianfranco D'Addabbo, five grandchildren, and five great-grandchildren. A Mass of Christian burial will be celebrated on Wednesday at Christ the Servant Catholic Parish with Rev. Fr. Daniel Finnerty officiating.

Ottis L. Gump Jr.

Ottis L. Gump, born July 2, 1968, in Fallon, Nevada, passed away peacefully at age 56 on April 13, 2025, surrounded by loved ones. Known for his kindness and ability to make everyone feel special, he is survived by his wife Wendy, three children, three grandchildren, his mother Linda, and brother Nevada, along with extended family. A private celebration of life will be held, and the family requests donations to Big Bro Lil Bro charity in lieu of flowers, reflecting Ottis's commitment to community service and family values.