Cleo Tichenor

Cleo Tichenor, a longtime resident of Connersville passed away peacefully on Wednesday, October 21, 2026 shortly before celebrating her 101st birthday. She was born in Switzerland County, Indiana on a cold winter day, December 17, 1925, she was one of five children to the late Ottie W. Cole and Lelia Sigmons Cole.

Cleo grew up in during wartimes, and did everything she could to help those around her. She worked tirelessly in the manufacturing industry during World War II, until her solider came back home to her.

On Christmas Day in 1945 Cleo married the love of her life, Ray Tichenor. They celebrated nearly 60 years of marriage prior to his passing in 2004. Together, they raised three children.

Cleo spent her days at home caring for her husband and children; and there was nothing more satisfying that watching her children grow into the delightful individuals that they are today. She excelled in cooking, and spending her days in the kitchen making a home cooked meal for her family filled her heart with joy. When she had free time she enjoyed relaxing while working a crossword puzzle. Cleo loved her family dearly and adored the time she spent with them; especially her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She will be missed by all who knew her.

Cleo is survived by her children; daughter, Julia Tichenor and son, Philip Cole. Her love and memories will live on forever in her grandchildren; Daniel Ray Rose, Rhianna Rose Wagner Roberts, and her great-grandchildren; Waylon Wagner and Lara Wagner.

Along with her parents and her beloved husband Ray, she is preceded in death by a daughter, Ingrid Tichenor and her siblings; Theodore Cole, Lloyd Cole, Ylie James Cole, and Estene Leap.

Friends and Family may gather on Friday October 30, 2026 at Urban Winkler Funeral Home located at 513 W 8th Street Connersville, IN 47331 from 12:00PM to 2:00PM. The funeral service will begin immediately following at 2:00PM. Cleo will be laid to rest next to her husband at Dale Cemetery.