Joe F. Pumphrey

JOE F. PUMPHREY, age 93 of Sidney, passed away Monday, October 6, 2025, at 8:15 AM at his home. He was born on February 14, 1932, in Columbus, Ohio, the son of the late Herbert and Alberta (Bravard) Pumphrey.

On July 31, 1983, Joe married Elaine (Turner) who survives along with four children: Julie Ketcher of Claremore, OK, Steven (Angela) Hood of Indianapolis, IN, Rachel (James) Henderson of Naples, FL, and Karen Smith of Columbus, OH, four grandchildren, and one great-grandchild.

Joe earned his Master of Divinity from Phillips University and Seminary in Enid, Oklahoma. He served as an ordained minister and was chaplain for Wilson Health Hospice and St. Rita’s Hospice. Over the years, he served on several mental health and chaplaincy boards in Shelby County and the surrounding areas. He was a member of Saint Paul’s United Church of Christ, Temperance Lodge #73, and Pleiades Chapter #298 OES where he served as chaplain for the past 15 years.

A Memorial Service will be held Friday, October 17, 2025, at 12:00 PM at Saint Paul's United Church of Christ with Pastor Jim Oates officiating. The family will receive friends at the church, in the Fireside Room, from 10:00 AM until the time of service.

Memorials to honor Joe may be made to Saint Paul’s United Church of Christ Missions Trip Fund. Condolences may be expressed to the family at www.cromesfh.com