MATTHEWS

Pastor Howard M. "Whitey" Fights  77 went home to his Lord and Savior March 23rd, 2015.

Whitey was born in Matthews IN June 19th, 1937 to his late parents, Val and Thelma (Brown) Fights. He attended schools in Upland, Matthews and went to Jefferson Twp. High School.  He retired from Fisher Body in 1988 working there 30 years.  On November 15th, 1964 Whitey placed his faith and confidence in Jesus Christ, and his life was forever changed. His passion in life was sharing Jesus Christ with everyone he met. He was the Pastor for several churches in the Yorktown and Gaston area including Reed Station Christian Church and was the Pastor at Prairie Grove Christian Church in Gaston for 25 years. Whitey loved to build and since his retiring from the pastorate he especially enjoyed working for Sproles Construction of New Castle.  He loved the camaraderie and friendship of the men he worked with.

He is survived by his wife of 58 years, Barbara Winningham Fights.  A daughter Beth Holsinger, husband-Tim of Gaston, IN and a son Rick Fights of Matthews, IN. One brother, Alfred Fights, wife-Viola of Matthews.  Four sisters; Janet Rector, husband-Delmar of Matthews, Barbara Black, husband-Fred of Hartford City, Beatrice Nash, husband-Charles of Marion. and Patricia Gillespie, of Muncie, IN  Two sister-in-laws, Dorothy Fights of Murphysboro, TN and Virginia Fights of Hartford City.  Three grandchildren; Paige Howard, husband-Cale, Brandon Holsinger, Fiancé' Jessica Persinger and one great grandson who brought much joy to his life, Ryan Joseph Howard. Several special nieces and nephews and cousins.

Whitey was preceded in death by two brothers, Robert and Virgil Fights and one sister, Virginia Wright.

A Celebration of Life for Whitey will be held Thursday 2:00 p.m. at the Prairie Grove Christian Church located at 16775 North 775 West, Gaston, IN.    Pastor Mark Garringer and Pastor Joe Blalock  are officiating.

Friends may call one hour 1:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m. prior to services on Thursday.

Memorials may be made to the Muncie Mission @1725 South Liberty, Muncie, In 47302.

Share your condolences with Whitey's family at www.gantfuneralhomes.com

The Gant and Miller families are honored to celebrate the life of Whitey with his family and community.