ATHENS, Ohio – The City of Athens will hold a graveside service for four individuals whose remains were unclaimed on Monday, September 21, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at West Union Street Cemetery. Members of the public, friends, or those that knew the deceased are invited to attend and help the community lay these individuals to rest with dignity:
- John Raymond Carter — January 1, 1962–September 5, 2024
- Joseph Jennings — May 31, 1955–August 7, 2025
- Thomas Starr — December 24, 1960–June 17, 2026
- Lester G. Lane — August 27, 1965–September 8, 2026
The service will be non-religious and will last approximately 20 to 25 minutes. When entering the cemetery, follow the driveway counterclockwise to the back section of the cemetery where the ceremony will be held.
The City is also continuing to seek relatives or anyone who may have information that could help identify or locate next of kin for any of these individuals. Anyone with information is asked to contact Deputy Service-Safety Director, Andrew Chiki at 740-592-3340 or achiki@ci.athens.oh.us. No one should be laid to rest without dignity or remembrance. The public’s presence is welcomed as we speak their names, acknowledge their lives, and lay them to rest with respect.
