Around Edinburg: Township says goodbye to Evelyn Shewell, Edinburg's oldest resident

Many of you may have already heard, but we recently lost our oldest community member with the passing of Evelyn Shewell. Evelyn turned 100 years old this past August and was awarded with a proclamation from the Edinburg Ohio Historical Society. 

Beverly Nissel presents Evelyn Shewell her proclamation.

She married her husband, Robert, when she was just 15 years old. They raised five children together in the same house she lived in up until her death this month. Evelyn was also a cook at Southeast High School for many years. She is survived by several family members, including all five children, 15 grandchildren, 17 great-grandchildren and eight great-great-grandchildren. Condolences to the entire family.

In partnership with Gold Star Mom Linda Dillon, Homefront Heroes is launching an initiative to turn Portage County Purple, which aims to create a lasting tribute to our combat-wounded and fallen heroes — one that reflects our county’s deep respect for military service and sacrifice. The campaign will officially launch in January, and you can stay updated and become involved by visiting www.portagehomefrontheroes.org for more information and to sign up.

Local author C.A. Coss will be at Books a Go Go from 1 to 3 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 20 to sign copies of his “Grady the Groundhog” series for early readers. Coss is a Southeast alum and has many family members in the area. It would be great for everyone to come out and support local talent in our area. Books a Go Go is located at 220 W. Main St. in Ravenna. For more information, feel free to call the shop at 330-442-4226 or visit the website at www.booksagogostore.com. Books can be purchased ahead of time at the shop or during the event.

Edinburg United Church enters the Christmas season with a spirit of hope, comfort and celebration. In addition to the weekly 9 a.m. Sunday worship services, the church invites all to take part in two additional meaningful services designed to honor both the joys and challenges of the holiday season. The church will hold its Longest Night Service, often known as Blue Christmas, at 3 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 21. This gentle and reflective service is offered especially for those who may be experiencing grief, loneliness or heartache during the holidays. While Christmas is often filled with cheer, it can also be a difficult time for many. The Longest Night Service offers a time for quiet prayer, healing and remembrance. All are welcome to attend.

Edinburg United Church will then hold its traditional Christmas Eve Candlelight Service at 4 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 24. This annual service features Scripture, carols and the glow of candlelight as the congregation proclaims the message of peace and hope. Families, friends and neighbors are all invited to come. Edinburg United Church is located at 4081 Rock Spring Rd.

Wishing everyone a happy holiday!

Please send information to my email at CM101495@aol.com by the second Wednesday of the month to be included in the column and thank you.