Dr. Meliah Blair, 30, of Newport, KY, formerly of Ft. Mitchell, passed away unexpectedly at her home on May 11, 2025. Born on January 9, 1995, in Edgewood, KY, Meliah was the youngest child of Don and Sue Blair. She was a 2013 graduate of Beechwood High School, went on to earn her Bachelor’s Degree in Biology from Northern Kentucky University, and completed her Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine at Auburn University in 2021. Meliah was the Lead Veterinarian at Lawrenceburg Veterinary Clinic, where she was deeply respected by her colleagues and clients alike. Her professional passions included radiology, ultrasound, surgery, and overall wellness care for animals. Meliah’s intelligence and curiosity took her around the world — from China to Switzerland, Italy, and Paris — but she always returned home to Kentucky, where she has made a lasting impact. She had dreams of someday living in southern Europe, a reflection of her adventurous spirit. She was an eclectic soul — brilliant, silly, kind, compassionate, and full of laughter. Meliah loved Renaissance fairs, landscaping, reading, and had a flair for fashion. Though stylish and social, she was secretly a proud nerd. She found deep joy in her furry companions, Hattie B, a loyal Golden Retriever, and Figgy, her beloved cat. Meliah is survived by her parents, Don and Sue Blair; her siblings, Jay (Anna) Blair, Cassie (Manny) Adams, and Nathaniel (Kimberly) Blair; twelve nieces and nephews; and many extended family members in Wisconsin. She also leaves behind her dear friend Kaitlin (Dylan) Lawless and a wide circle of friends, colleagues, and clients who will deeply miss her competitive sprit and loving guidance. She was preceded in death by her paternal grandparents, Robert and Patricia Blair, and her maternal grandfather, Richard Kremer. A Celebration of Life will be held on Friday, May 30, 2025, from 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM at Mansion Hill Sanctuary in Newport, KY. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Angel Fund at Lawrenceburg Veterinary Clinic which was very important to Meliah. https://paymnt.io/0ywi97 To share a story or leave an online condolence, please visit https://linnemannfuneralhomes.com/obituary/dr-meliah-marie-blair/

Gary Robert Averdick, 72, passed away peacefully with his family at his side on Easter Sunday. He was the son of Bob and Esther Sommerkamp Averdick. Gary grew up in Lookout Heights, then largely fields, woods and houses under construction. A creek, pond and penny candy store helped to make it the perfect setting for this All-American boy. Gary loved ofinding frogs, turtles and other wildlife which he sometimes put in his Mom’s laundry tubs. This would delay her work until the creatures could be relocated. From early on Gary’s fun-loving ways caused him to have many buddies for life’s adventures. His natural athletic abilities led him to play defensive back for Covington Catholic’s football team. He was also on their track team which practiced on the Latonia Race Course track, running barefoot. After graduation, Gary was a cement finisher for Trumble Construction. A sales career followed. Gary was affiliated with Knights of Columbus Insurance, Nautavac and Reunion Coffee of Toronto, Canada. He later enjoyed operating his own company, Averdick Field Stone in Campbell County, followed by working for Western Hills Builders Supply. Gary was a spiritual man having been in Alcoholics Anonymous for thirty-six years. He was a caring sponsor for many. Gary raised two children with his first wife, Deborah Fox Averdick Reimer. He and his second wife, Elise Nunn Averdick, raised and showed Rocky Mountain horses. He was preceded in death by his parents, his brother, Captain Bill Averdick, and many friends. He is survived by his daughters, Holly Averdick and Heather Averdick Wagner (Doug Wagner); grandchildren, Noah and Crosley Wagner; brothers, Mike Averdick (John Gerwe), Steve Averdick (Ruth Appel Averdick) and Joe Averdick (Liz Lavandero Averdick) as well as many nieces, nephews and dear friends. His dog, Shady, and cat, Luna, mourn his absence. Gary instilled a love of life in all of his family and countless friends. The family would like to express their deep appreciation to the caregivers at the St. Elizabeth Cancer Center for their attentive and loving care. Services have been held. Memorials are suggested to: Promises Inc., Alcoholism Treatment Program, 116 West 9th Street, Newport, Kentucky 41071. Middendorf Funeral Home is serving the family.

Thomas William Maile, 77, of Erlanger, KY passed away peacefully on Wednesday January 22, 2025 at Christ Hospital, surrounded by his loving family. Born on July 1, 1947, in Covington, Kentucky, Thomas was the beloved son of the late Edward and Mary Louise Maile (nee Cappel). He was a proud U.S. Army veteran, having served during the Vietnam War, and always spoke with honor about his time in service to his country. Thomas was a devoted member of the Catholic Order of Foresters and a longtime member of Mary Queen of Heaven Church, where he faithfully attended for over 40 years. He was a proud alumnus of Covington Catholic High School and was known for his unwavering loyalty to his alma mater, as well as his passionate support of the University of Kentucky Wildcats. He was also a dedicated member of Teamsters Local 100, where he worked tirelessly to support his family. A shepherd at heart, Thomas had an innate ability to care for and protect those around him, earning the love and respect of all who knew him. Tom was also preceded in death by his brother-in-law, Bert Phillips. A loving husband, father, grandfather, and friend, Thomas leaves behind his beloved wife of 53 years, Elizabeth Maile (nee Moreno); his daughter, Maria (Jeffrey Portwood) Maile, his brothers, Dick (Pam Blackburn) Maile, Tony (Terri) Maile; and his sisters, Barbara (Mike) Goebel), Mary Sue Phillips. He also leaves behind his grandchildren, Isaac and Grace, and numerous other family members and friends. Thomas’s love for his family was unconditional, and his impact on the lives of those he touched was immeasurable. His legacy of faith, kindness, and dedication will live on in the hearts of all who had the honor of knowing him. He is now safe in the hands of Jesus, and though his presence will be greatly missed, his spirit will forever remain with us. Mass of Christian Burial will be on Saturday, February 1, 2025 at 11:00AM at Mary Queen of Heaven Church in Erlanger, KY. A reception will follow the mass at the Drees Pavilion in Devou Park Covington, KY. He will be entombed at Mother of God Cemetery in Latonia, KY. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to: Mary Queen of Heaven Catholic Church 1150 Donaldson Hwy. Erlanger, KY 41018 or Covington Catholic High School 1600 Dixie Hwy. Park Hills, KY 41011. To share a story or leave an online condolence, please visit: www.linnemannfuneralhomes.com

Edward C. Allmoslecher Bellevue, KY Edward C. Allmoslecher, a lifelong resident of Bellevue, KY, passed away peacefully in his sleep on January 10, 2025, at his home. He was born to Clarence and Emma Allmoslecher and was lovingly raised by his uncle and aunt, Robert and Rose Allmoslecher, also of Bellevue. Ed is survived by his devoted wife of 42 years, Diane Allmoslecher; his son, Edward C. Allmoslecher Jr.; his daughter, Michelle Allmoslecher Stimec; his grandsons, Brian, Andrew (Jill) and Devin Allmoslecher (Amanda), and Michael Stimec; and his great-grandsons, Jackson and Heath Allmoslecher. He is preceded in death by his parents, Clarence and Emma; his uncle and aunt, Robert and Rose; and his grandson, John Stimec: and cherished Mother-In-Law, Hazel Krogman. Ed was an avid sports fan who loved cheering for the Cincinnati Reds, the Bengals, and UK basketball. He retired from Duke Energy and enjoyed 20 plus fulfilling years of retirement. He spent much of his time tending to his garden, reading the newspaper, solving puzzles, and watching his grandchildren play baseball at Pendery Park. Ed’s life was a testament to love, family, and dedication, and he will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Andrew Brian Hayes, 66 of Alexandria, KY passed away peacefully on November 18, 2024. He was the son of Earl and Margorie (Grosse) Hayes. Andy had retired from the Campbell County Police Department after 20 plus years. After retirement, he worked for the IRS as security and the Campbell County Detention Center as a detective. Throughout his career, he worked in photography, Crime Scene investigations and served on the SWAT team. Andy had served as a Sergeant for the Northern Kentucky Drug Task Force. He was the founding member of the Warthogs Motorcycle Club and spent many years riding the roads with his wife and friends. He was a member of the Fraternal Order of Police #10. Andy was an avid shooter and loved camping. Recently, he spent a lot of time on the water with the “The Traveling Sh*tshow”. Andy touched a lot of lives during his career of serving others. He is survived by his wife, Dawn Hayes. Son, Matthew Hayes. Brothers, Steven (Susan) and Chris Hayes. Sister, Francis (Donald) McGrath. Along with many friends and colleagues. A Celebration of Life will be held on November 30, 2024 at cooper Funeral Home from 12pm-4pm. Andy’s wishes were that his ashes be shared with his friends and family to spread where they had their best memory with him. In lieu of flowers, Dawn and Matthew would like donations to be made to either St. Elizabeth Hospice, 483 South Loop Rd, Edgewood KY 41017 or Campbell County FOPA10 Cops n’ Kids Program, PO Box 133, Alexandria KY 41001. Cooper Funeral Home is serving the family.

Jessica Black (née Berry), age 39, of Verona, KY, passed away unexpectedly on Monday, November 11, 2024, at her residence. Jessica graduated from Newport High School in 2003. She went on to pursue her passion for healthcare, earning both her bachelor's and master's degrees in nursing from Northern Kentucky University. She proudly served as a Nurse Practitioner with Triad, where her patients adored her for her kind, compassionate care and unwavering dedication. She was a devoted parishioner of St. Timothy Catholic Church. Jessica was a nurturer in every sense of the word-always there for her friends and loved ones, offering support and love whenever it was needed. She was a problem solver, whether in the kitchen, where she was known for her delicious baking, or in life, where her calm presence brought peace and resolution. A proud and devoted mother, she was fully involved in her children's lives, attending every sporting event and dedicating countless hours as the team manager for NKY Norseman and a softball coach. Above all, Jessica was the life of every celebration. The "Queen of the Holidays," she had a unique way of turning every occasion into something special, bringing joy and warmth to all who were around her. Jessica will be deeply missed by her family and friends, who cherished her infectious spirit, her boundless energy, and her loving heart. She was preceded in death by her father, Tom Berry. Jessica is survived by her loving husband, Adam Black; children: Saorise, Madelyn and Forrest Black; mother, Cheri Berry; sister, Angel Wagner (Kevin) and their children, Corran and Avery Wagner; brother, Reid Berry; mother and father-in-law, Cliff and Rose Black; brother and sister-in-law, Erich and Megan Black and their daughter, Emyerson Black; as well as many dear family members and friends who she loved and they will forever hold her memory close. A visitation will be held on Monday, November 18, 2024, from 5:00 PM-8:00 PM at Linnemann Funeral Homes, 30 Commonwealth Ave., Erlanger, KY. Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Tuesday, 10:00 AM at St. Timothy Catholic Church, 10272 US-42, Union, KY. Burial will immediately follow at Mother of God Cemetery in Latonia, KY. Reception to continue the celebration of Jessica's life will be held after mass from 11:30 AM-4:00 PM at the church in Brodnick Hall. Memorial contributions are suggested to Go Fund Me by clicking on the following link DONATE or St. Timothy School, 10268 US-42, Union, KY 41091. Online condolences can be made at www.linnemannfuneralhomes.com.

Jacqueline Marshall Hixson, 79, of Burlington, KY died peacefully Nov. 9, 2024, in Portland, OR. “Jacque” was born in Covington, KY. She was the first of eight children to Donald and Erlene Marshall of Erlanger. She was a 1963 graduate of Villa Madonna Academy. She worked in home health care and was also a nanny. Jacque loved to read, shop, and visit her daughters and grandchildren. She was married to Robert “Bob” Hixson for 46 years until his passing in 2018. She is survived by her three daughters, Tracey, Lindsay, and Kelly. She is also survived by two sisters: Debbie and Vickie, three brothers: Chuck, Danny, and Jamie. Jacque is survived by six grandchildren: Austin, Miles, Peyton, Talon, Towers and Seaver and two great-grandchildren: Alura and Mia. Jacque’s generosity was felt by all who knew her, and her faith was an essential part of her life. Sympathy may be expressed by a memorial contribution to Hopewell House. (https://hopewellhousepdx.org/give/)

Darla Kay Megerle (nee DeZarn) formerly of Latonia, Kentucky unexpectedly passed away on Tuesday, October 22, 2024. She grew up in Walnut Hills on Kenton Street with "Granny Rube" and Goebel Hager. Later moving to Northern Kentucky, graduating from Boone County High School, landing in Latonia, and married formerly to Stephen Megerle. She worked at Fifth Third Bank for a stint and like her mother, "Doots," served as a waitress at several restaurants throughout her adult life including the old Frisch's on James Avenue in Latonia. Darla early in adulthood suffered a series of serious debilitating health setbacks and a roller coaster struggle with mental illness but those never slowed her down. Darla always endeavored to persevere and be the best and proudest mom for her only son, "Stevie Joe" Megerle. Later in life and disabled she trekked to occasional college classes at NKU's Covington campus and Gateway Community College trying to master science and math always championing a desire to get back to work. She loved to read, music, and time spent with siblings and especially her Cincinnati cousins. Darla cherished sharing a chat, her opinions, a Pall Mall bummed from Ruby or any cigarette, a Diet Pepsi, and devouring a LaRosas's meat lovers pizza, or Frisch's pumpkin pie, whenever and with whomever. And now boasting the broadest smile as "Nanna Darla" loving her grandson, William, and granddaughter, Madeleine Kay, as they played and climbed on her wheelchair. Darla is happily now in peace in her next chapter of life bickering again with Granny Rube and thankful for all of her many caregivers; her memory will never be forgotten by all she met and shared life with. Darla was preceded by her parents: Raleigh DeZarn and Katherine (Moore) and siblings, Raleigh, Jr. and David Moore. She is survived by her beloved son: Steven J. Megerle and Anne (Lame) Megerle, grandchildren, William and Madeleine. A Memorial Visitation and a wake for Darla will take place on Wednesday, October 30, 2024 from 10:30 AM until the Eulogy at 11:50 AM, followed by Mass of Christian Burial at 12:00 PM (Noon) at Holy Cross Parish at 3612 Church Street, Covington (Latonia), KY 41015. Rite of Committal will be private at the convenience of the family at Mother of God Cemetery in Fort Wright, KY. Memorials in lieu of flowers are suggested to NAMI NKY or the Alliance for Catholic Urban Education of the Diocese of Covington. Connley Brothers Funeral Home, Covington (Latonia), KY 41015 is serving the family. Online condolences may be expressed on Facebook or at www.connleybrothersfuneralhome.com

John Joseph Serra, 73 of Ft. Thomas, KY passed away October 24, 2024 at St. Elizabeth, Ft Thomas. He is preceded in death by his twin brother Frank Serra and his parents John and Eleanor (nee Palumbo) Serra. John is survived by his loving wife of 40 years, Sharon McFarland Serra, daughters Stephanie (Nick) Monaco and Kim (Paul) Serra Freer, stepsons Jed (Jenna) Thorn and Isaac (Erica) Thorn and grandchildren Caitlin, Olivia, Rose, Aaron, Bryce and Guinevere. A celebration of life will be held Sunday, October 27, 2024 from 1:00pm - 4:00pm at Wiedemann Hill Mansion, 1102 Park Ave, Newport, KY 41071. Donations are requested to: Campbell County Animal Services 1989 Poplar Ridge Road, Melbourne, KY 41059, or online at: https://checkout.shelterluv.com/donate/CAMP, or to Meals on Wheels of Southwest OH and Northern KY 2091 Radcliff Drive Cincinnati, OH 45204 or online at: Muchmorethanameal.org. Please note when donating that the donation is in memory of John Serra.

With broken hearts, we announce the sudden passing of James Michael O’Connor on Sunday, October 6, 2024. Born in Carrollton, Kentucky on January 2, 1958, Mike was a graduate of Gallatin County High School and Carroll County Vocational School in 1976. An entrepreneur and mechanic, Mike ran Home Medic of Northern Kentucky and worked for Integrated Deicing Systems for eleven years at CVG airport. Mike leaves a legacy in his wake. Devoted husband of Kathy for nearly 47 years and doting father of Andrea Micha (Ruben Perez) and Alyssa (John) South. He was preceded in death by his birth mother Judy Goehring and parents August and Pauline. Proud grandfather of 5; Sophia, Clara, Colton, Reagan, and Harper, being their Papaw was by far his favorite title. Raised in Sanders, Kentucky, Mike was from a big Irish family and the oldest brother of Pam (Rick) Locke, Cindy Norris, Patrick (Cecilia), Neal (Darlene), and Candy (Lewis) Gifford. Some of his favorite times were spent on the farm with family, playing cards, and laughing until the wee hours. Mike and his family settled in Union in 1991, enjoying a beautiful suburban life. Always supportive, he coached his daughters’ softball and basketball teams, was a member of the marching band boosters, and never missed a performance, game, or any chance to clap for his girls, who were the apple of his eye. Jack of all trades, Mike could fix any machine, solve any problem, and build anything he set his brilliant mind to. A thrill seeker, Mike loved to go fast- fast cars, fast horses, fast motorcycles, and fast boats, boasting a collection of all. As much as he loved to go fast, he enjoyed playing golf and was a member of several local teams at Lassing Pointe and Wheatley Golf Course. He famously made 2 holes-in-one, a testament to his skill. The ultimate sports fan, Mike enjoyed cheering for his beloved University of Kentucky Wildcats or Cincinnati Bengals, no matter their season records. With a huge heart, Mike would help a friend or stranger at a moment’s notice and do so with his customary lopsided grin. Recently, Mike took up cooking and loved to use his smoker and grills. An adventurer, he loved to travel, particularly to the Caribbean or anywhere there was a beach involved. Having just retired, Mike and his wife were planning to move to Florida with their boat and sail off into the sunset. His absence will be felt for the remainder of our days. A celebration of life will be held on Monday, October 14th at Florence Nature Center 7200 Nature Park Dr, Florence, Ky 41042 starting at 5 pm.

Elizabeth “Libby” Kinney, 79 of Wilder KY passed away on October 3, 2024. She was the daughter of Joseph and Elizabeth (Sauerbach) Meyer. Libby was a member of St. John the Baptist Roman Catholic Church. She was preceded in death by her parents and her sister, Brenda Mardis. She enjoyed playing cards and going to bingo. Libby is survived by her husband of 62 years, Ollie “Doug” Kinney. Son, Doug (Sharon) Kinney. Daughters, Denise (Jeff) Afterkirk and Carla (Rick) Newman. Brother, James (Carolyn) Meyer. Sisters, Joann (Jim) Miskanin, Linda (Art) Guy and Deborah (Darwin) Davis. Along with 15 Grandchildren and 32 Great Grandchildren. Visitation will be held on Tuesday, October 8, 2024 at Cooper Funeral Home from 5pm-8pm. Service will take place on Wednesday, October 9, 2024 at 10am. Burial will take place immediately following in Alexandria Cemetery. Cooper Funeral Home is serving the family.

Alexandria — Carolee Baker Pfefferman was born in Grant’s Lick KY on March 13, 1940, to Leroy “Buck” and Louella Weckbach Baker. She attended Campbell County High School where she was ranked third in her graduating class. Carolee worked as a stay-at-home mom for 18 years and then joined the IRS as a seasonal employee. She spent the next 26 years building a highly successful career culminating with being promoted to Assistant to the Commissioner. In addition, she earned numerous awards and accolades during her career. Lastly, she was an avid blood donor and donated nearly 10 gallons of blood to the Hoxworth Center. Carolee enjoyed family gatherings, traveling, reading, crossword puzzles, genealogy and gardening. She and her husband Tony traveled extensively in the US and made one trip to Europe. They loved sightseeing historical sites and often included Las Vegas on their trips where they made many friends. Carolee is survived by three children Mark (Cindy) Pfefferman, Robin Pfefferman (Tim Seiter-deceased), and Kirk (Brandi) Pfefferman, 9 grand children, 2 great-grandchildren, brothers-in-law Joe (Vicki) Pfefferman and David Pfefferman, sisters-in-law Judy Baker and Sandi Pfefferman and many nieces and nephews. She was proceeded in death by her parents, her husband Tony Pfefferman, her brother Allen Baker, her father and mother-in-law Tony and Esther Pfefferman, her brother-in-law Richard “Dick” Pfefferman and her sister-in-law Margaret Dailey. Visitation will be held from 9-11 a.m. Saturday, March 16, 2024, at the St. Mary of the Assumption Parish in Alexandria, KY. Mass of Christian burial will follow at 11 a.m. also at the church, under the direction of Peoples Funeral Home. Carolee’s final resting place will be in the St. Mary’s Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to St Vincent De Paul Society, 8246 E. Main St., Alexandria, KY 41001, St. Elizabeth Hospice or the charity of your choice.