Diana Kay Perry, 68

Diana Kay Perry, 68, of Mount Carmel, Illinois, passed away on Sunday, September 2, 2018. She was born July 10, 1950 the daughter of Delmar and Billie Byrns. She married Junior Perry and he preceded her in death.

Diana was a very kind person with a big heart. She opened her home to anyone in need. Diana enjoyed spending time with her family and friends. She had a wonderful smile and outgoing personality. She attended Heartland Worship Center. Diana was loved by many and will be deeply missed.

Diana will be remembered by her four siblings, Shirley Rose, Wayne Byrns, Marilyn (David) Doan all of Mount Carmel and Kevin (Pauline) Byrns of Princeton, Indiana; one sister-in-law, Kathy Byrns and many treasured nieces and nephews.

Diana was preceded in death by her husband; parents; brother, Benny Byrns; step-son, Josh Dooley; nieces, Kim Foster and Tory Stoltz; nephews, Brett Stoltz and Devin McMullen.

Family and friends are invited to gather for a Memorial Visitation from 12:00 p.m. - 1:00 p.m., Saturday, September 22, 2018 at Heartland Worship Center, 212 West 2nd Street, Mount Carmel, IL. A Memorial Service will follow at 1:00 p.m. with Reverend Tony Hodgson officiating.

Memorial Contributions can be made in Diana’s memory to the American Diabetes Association, 55 E Monroe St #3420, Chicago, IL 60603. Envelopes will be available at the Church.

Keepes Funeral Home is assisting the family with the arrangements. To view Diana’s tribute wall, purchase flowers and leave condolences for the Perry family, please visit www.keepesfuneralhome.com

Francis Warren Ruth, Jr., 62

Francis Warren Ruth, Jr., 62, of Mount Carmel, Illinois passed away suddenly on Wednesday, September 5, 2018 at his residence. Francis’ given name was Eldred Ray Whiting. He was born on March 1, 1956 to Harold Ray Dardeen and Deonna (Whiting) Seals in Wabash County, Illinois.

Francis faithfully served his Country in the United States Army and in the United States Navy. He loved his family and always enjoyed being around people. Francis was of catholic faith.

Francis will be remembered by his mother, Deonna Seals of Mount Carmel; son, Bradley Whiting; birth father, Harold Dardeen; step father, Donald Coomer; sister, Kay (Tom) Graves of Mount Carmel; brothers, Roger Dardeen and Harold “Hotdog” Dardeen; three grandchildren; several nieces and nephews.

Francis was preceded in death by his adopted father, Francis Warren Ruth, Sr.; and brother, Robert Dardeen.

In keeping with Francis’ wishes, he will be cremated and a Memorial Service to honor the life of Francis’ will be held at a later date.

Keepes Funeral Home is serving the family with the arrangements. To view Francis’ tribute wall and leave condolences for Francis’ family, please visit www.keepesfuneralhome.com

Velma Helene (Moeller) Hinchliffe, 99

Velma Helene (Moeller) Hinchliffe, 99, of Mt. Carmel, Illinois, passed away peacefully on Sunday, September 2, 2018 at Wabash General Hospital.

She was born January 10, 1919 in Moline, Illinois, the daughter of Anna Helene (Spitznas) Moeller and William Moeller. She married John Arthur Hinchliffe November 9, 1945 in Chicago, Illinois; he preceded her in death March 5, 2006.

Velma led an active life. She graduated from University of Minnesota with a BA in Microbiology in 1942. She had papers published regarding the influenza virus 1942-1943, the effect of Penicillin on gonococcus and meningococcus 1943-1945, and research on Tularemia 1958-1962. She was employed by the State of Ohio working out of the Ohio State University Hospital.

Upon retirement both she and Art followed their interest in Antiques glassware traveling the country while selling her items at antique shows. She was an avid reader, chess player, yarn crafter, jeweler and painter; preferring water colors. She was an active member in Mt. Carmel Art Guild. Unafraid to pick up and move, Art and Vel lived in Cincinnati, OH, New Haven, CT, Columbus OH, Pueblo West, CO (where they built dream house, Art doing all the carpentry and mortar, etc., while in their 60s), with final retirement in Brooksville, FL. Upon Art’s death Vel moved to Mt. Carmel to be closer to her daughter.

Surviving to cherish her memory are her daughters Sarah (Layne) Long of Mt. Carmel, IL and Jannice Jenkins (special friend Aarja) of Englewood, CO; grandchildren Shawn (Jamie) Long of Lexington, KY, Gloria (Keith) Reed of Mt. Carmel, April (Shane) Davis of Austin, TX, and Eve Jenkins of Denver CO; and great grandchildren Avery and Larkin Long.

She was preceded in death by both parents; husband Art, son-in-law John Jenkins and daughter Gloria Hinchliffe.

Per her wishes, Velma will be cremated. No service is planned.

The family would like to thank Short-Cunningham Funeral Homes for their service.

Condolences may be made online at www.short-cunninghamfh.com

Harry E. Wheatley, 80

Harry E. Wheatley, 80, of Mt. Carmel, Illinois, passed away Monday, September 3, 2018, at Pacific Care Center in Pacific, Missouri.

He was born August 5, 1938, the son of Elmer and Kathryn (Stroh) Wheatley, at Friendsville, Illinois.  Harry was in the graduating class of 1956 at Mt. Carmel High School.  He honorably served in the U.S. Army and was stationed in Korea.  On September 30, 1967, he married Sylvia Hall at Lancaster, Illinois.  She preceded him in death on February 10, 1992. 

Harry was co-owner of CB Electric, retiring after 50 years as an electrician.  He enjoyed reading, music, riding motorcycles, theatre (musicals), NASCAR races and current events.  Harry traveled to Alaska, Tennessee, Florida, California, St. Louis, Canada, Washington D.C., Texas and many other destinations.  He was a member of IBEW Local 16 and American Legion.

Left to honor his memory are his children Cheryl (Mick) Halcomb and daughters Kate and Sarah Halcomb and Gayle (Kamie Davis) Peach and daughter Grace Peach-Righton ; sister Kathryn Guymon; and a long time companion Donna Witkowski.

Harry was preceded in death by his parents, Elmer and Kathryn; wife, Sylvia; siblings Alice Bates, Jack Wheatley, Inez Kacin, Raymond Wheatley and Jean Harris.

A visitation will be held on Saturday, September 8, 2018, at Short Funeral Home, 527 N Mulberry Street, Mt. Carmel, Illinois, from 10:00 to 11:30 a.m.   The funeral service will follow at 11:30 a.m. in the Chapel of Short Funeral Home.  Burial will be at Highland Memorial Cemetery.      

Memorials can be made to the Mt. Carmel Public Library Foundation for library updates.  Envelopes will be available at Short Funeral Home.

Condolences may be made online at www.short-cunninghamfh.com

Short-Cunningham Funeral Home is honored to serve Harry’s family.

Franklin D. Sutton, 84

Franklin D. Sutton, 84, of Mt. Carmel, Illinois, passed away Thursday, August 30, 2018, at Gibson General Hospital in Princeton, Indiana, surrounded by the love of his family. 

Franklin was born February 11, 1934, the son of William A. and Viola Mae (Dexter) Sutton in Wabash County. On August 8, 1953, he married Marie Obessa Jackson. Marie preceded him in death on December 23, 1976. Several years later Franklin married Patty (Ridgley) Rutter on July 28, 1980. She preceded him in death on June 6, 2007.

Franklin worked as a mechanic for Western Diesel and later as a machinist at Hurst. He was an outdoorsman. Franklin loved the river. He owned a river lot, boated, fished and was a member of the Boat Club. As an outdoorsman he enjoyed riding near the power plant looking for wildlife and spent hours watching them. Throughout his life he owned several motorcycles riding them as often as he could. Franklin liked baseball and delighted in coaching and teaching his children the sport.

Left to cherish his memory are his six children, Darlene Hoffman, Eilene Robinson, Frank Sutton II and wife Tammy, Carol Perkins and husband Jack, Mary Peterson and her husband Doug, Charmin Mowrer and Sid Rutter; eleven grandchildren, Nicki (Chuck) Epperson, Kaylie Sutton, Jason (Brandi) Hoffman, Betty Robinson, Edger Robinson, Jennifer (Tony) Frank, Charles Neikirk, Tosha (Clay) Hancock, Lauren (Daniel) Berberich, Dalton Rutter and Sydney Peterson; and seven great-grandchildren.

Preceding Franklin in death were his parents, wives Marie and Patty, grandchild Clint Mowrer, five brothers and a sister.

A visitation for Franklin will be held Wednesday, September 5, 2018, from 12:00 to 2:00 p.m. in the chapel of Short Funeral Home, 527 N. Mulberry Street, Mt. Carmel, Illinois, with the funeral service immediately following at 2:00 p.m. with a burial service at Highland Memorial Cemetery, 1827 College Drive, Mt. Carmel, Illinois.

Memorials can be made to the Shriners Children’s Hospital. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home.

Condolences may be made online at www.short-cunninghamfh.com 

Short-Cunningham Funeral Home is honored to serve Franklin’s family.

Karl Sampson, 99

Karl Sampson, 99, of Mt. Carmel, IL passed away Sunday, September 2, 2018 at Oakview Heights Continuous Care and Rehab Center.

He was born on July 18, 1919 in Belton, Kentucky, to Albert and Bessie (Jernigan) Sampson. Karl married Ellen Virginia “Jackie” Dardeen on May 29, 1944, she is surviving. Karl was very skilled in construction, his expertise and craftsmanship can be found in jobs he did all over Mt. Carmel. His primary employment was for Mt. Carmel Public Utility; retiring from there after thirty-six years.

Left to cherish his memories is his wife of seventy-four years, Jackie; two sons, Bobbie and his wife Janet Sampson and James Harold Sampson; eleven grandchildren, Kerry, Steve, Tracey, Joe, Ellen, Selena, Craig, Paul, David, Mark, and Lessine; twenty-nine great grandchildren; eighteen great-great grandchildren; one sister, Diane Rymer.

Karl is preceded in death by his parents, Albert and Bessie; one son, Lee Sampson; two grandchildren, Jason and Jackey; siblings, Martha Cunningham, Marie Veach, Farstone Sampson, Irene Kowalzyke, Estavia Stutte, and Fearl Sampson.

Karl gave his heart and life to the Lord Jesus Christ in his early thirties. He attended The House of God; faithfully serving on church boards and committees for over sixty-five years. Karl was a very active member of the Full Gospel Tabernacle Mt. Carmel.

Visitation and Service for Karl will be Tuesday, September 4, 2018 in the chapel of Short Funeral Home. Visitation for friends and family will be held from 1:00- 3:00 p.m. with the funeral service beginning at 3:00 p.m. Burial will follow immediately in Highland Memorial Cemetery.

Memorials may be made to Hope Fellowship Church, 1210 Landes Street, Mt. Carmel.

Condolences may be made online at www.short-cunninghamfh.com Short-Cunningham Funeral Home is honored to serve Karl’s family.

Funeral Report-Waldo A. “Pete” Harms

Funeral Services were held at 2:00 p.m., Wednesday, August 29, 2018 at the Pentecostal Faith Assembly Church in Friendsville, IL to honor the life of Waldo A. “Pete” Harms. Pastor Bill Reed and Reverend Jesse Kasinger officiated the service. Reverend Kasinger opened the Service with reading of the obituary, opening prayer and comments. Pete’s daughter, Deborah Griesemer read “The Dragonfly Story” followed by Beverly Stuessel, who was accompanied by Deborah Reed on the piano, singing “I Won’t Have to Worry Anymore”. Pastor Reed shared reflections and memories of Waldo, a Scripture message, closing comments and Prayer. Recorded musical selections throughout the service included “Go Rest High on That Mountain”, How Great Thou Art” and Dancing in The Sky”. Deborah Reed provided prelude and postlude piano music which included “Sweet Hour of Prayer”, Amazing Grace”, and “In the Garden”. Burial followed at Friendsville Cemetery where Pete was laid to rest next to his beloved wife, Earlene. Pallbearers were Ryan Krug, Dillon Wilkinson, Billy Dooley, Josh Harms, Rusty Harms and Dusty Jones. Keepes Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of Pete Harms.

Mary Patricia “Pat” Carlton Barefield Keck, 91

Mary Patricia “Pat” Carlton Barefield Keck, 91, passed away on December 1, 2017 in Ft. Worth,Texas. She was the second daughter of the late Iris Lovellette Carlton Grace and the late Holmes Roseberry Carlton and was pre-deceased by her brother, Holmes Robert Carlton and her sister, Yvonne Carlton Haeberle. She was born on November 2, 1926 in Keensburg, Illinois. She married the late James Louis Barefield in 1951 from Texarkana, Arkansas and the late William H. Keck in 1982 from Mt. Vernon, Indiana.

Pat is survived by her son, James Carlton Barefield (wife Kimberley) of Crested Butte, Colorado, and her daughter, Jennifer Ann Barefield Stewart (husband, the late Mark Stewart) of Ft. Worth, Texas. Also surviving are grandchildren Carlton Preston Stewart, Preston Holmes Stewart and Mackenzie Elizabeth Stewart of Ft. Worth, Texas and Natalie Michele Barefield and Brittany Anne Barefield of Crested Butte, Colorado. Additionally she has three step-children, Richard Keck, Katy Keck, and Sally Shapiro. She has one sister-in-law, Gaylia (Hale) Carlton and two nieces and three nephews.

After graduating from Indiana University with an education degree in 1949, she spent many years living and teaching kindergarten, first and second grades at both South and North Schools in Mt. Carmel, Illinois. Additionally, she took graduate courses in education at Evansville College, Southern Illinois University and Indiana State University. After marrying William Keck she moved to Mt. Vernon, Indiana and after his death in 2001, to Ft. Worth, Texas.

Pat’s great love and care of her family will always be remembered and cherished.

A private family burial will be held on September 8, 2018, at Highland Memorial Cemetery in Mt. Carmel, Illinois.

Condolences may be made online at www.short-cunninghamfh.com

Short-Cunningham Funeral Home is honored to serve Pat’s family.

Billy R. Cleveland, 83

Billy R. Cleveland, 83, of Mount Carmel formerly of Crossville, Illinois passed away peacefully on Saturday, August 25, 2018 at Deaconess Hospital Midtown in Evansville, Indiana.  He was born on March 5, 1935 in White County, IL the son of George and Ruby (Phelps) Cleveland.   He married Billie Lou Franklin on May 25, 1953 in Carmi, IL and together they enjoyed a life centered on their family.

Billy was a loving husband, father and grandfather and treasured the time he spent with his family.  Billy had a very sweet spirit; was always happy with a smile on his face.  He was a graduate of Crossville High School Class of 1952.  During Billy’s working career he worked as a rig hand in the oilfield and retired from B & W in Mount Vernon, IN.  He moved to Harrison, Arkansas and worked at Oakleaf-Appaloosa Farm where he managed the farm and was very passionate about his work training, caring and showing the horses. Among Billy’s hobbies he enjoyed NASCAR and watching college basketball.  Billy will be greatly missed by his family and all who knew him.   

Billy will be remembered by his son, Richard (Ellen) Cleveland; three daughters, Janet (Rod) Andrews, Becky (Gary) Naas and Pam Hale; grandchildren, Ryan Andrews, Sara Kuenstler, Nicole Vest, Sara Staggs, Natalie Russell, Carrie Wedel, Casey Cleveland, Dustin Hale, Terra Moye and Brandon Naas; great grandchildren, Rhett & Kate Andrews, Lane & Leah Kuenstler, Mercedes Massey, Caedon Teague, Roy, Braxton & Keagan Staggs, Kaitlyn & Landon Russell, Jackson & Cooper Wedel, Addison & Carter Cleveland, Devin Hale, Lennon & Dylan Naas, Lizzy & Emily Moye; two sisters, Ganath Lucas and Betty Patterson.

Billy was preceded in death by his parents; wife; son, William Cleveland; brother, Gene Cleveland; sisters, Verna Hughes and Georgia Guinn; and son in law, Stan Hale.

A Visitation will be held from 5:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m., Thursday, August 30, 2018 at the Crossville United Methodist Church, 408 2nd St, Crossville, IL 62827.  A Celebration of Life will be held at 7:00 p.m., Thursday, August 30, 2018 at the Church with Pastor Jon Carrell officiating. 

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made in Billy’s memory to Oakview Villa Supportive Living Center, 916 Oak Street, Mount Carmel, IL 62863.

Keepes Funeral Home is serving the family with the arrangements.  To view Billy’s tribute wall and leave condolences for the Cleveland family, please visit www.keepesfuneralhome.com

Waldo A. “Pete” Harms, 86

Waldo A. “Pete” Harms, 86, of Mount Carmel, Illinois passed away peacefully on Saturday, August 25, 2018 at Linda E. White Hospice Center in Evansville, IN. He was born on February 21, 1932 in Wabash County, IL the son of Ray and Mary (Burton) Harms. Pete married Frances Earlene (Lambert) Harms on August 1, 1964 at the Christian Church in Allendale, IL. They enjoyed fifty-two years of marriage before her passing on January 2, 2017.

Pete was a loving husband, father and grandfather. Pete was a very hard worker and that showed in his work throughout his life. During Pete’s working career he worked as a driller and pumper in the oilfields where was employed by several local oilfield companies. He also was a caterpillar operator where he dug ponds, basements and helped with road work. He was proud of his work on Mesa Lake and Conservation Lake where he received a lifetime membership award for service. Until his retirement, Pete worked at Highland Farms. Among Pete’s hobbies he was an avid coon hunter where he belonged to several coon clubs. He also loved being outdoors, fishing and always loved to go deep sea fishing.

Pete will be remembered by his four sons, Steve (Robin) Harms, Jimmie (Sherry) Dardeen, Jeff (Nikki) Dardeen, and Lonnie Dardeen; four daughters, Deborah (Tom) Griesemer, Jona (Tim Aldredge) Clardy , Carlena (Dewayne) Brewer, and Brenda (Don) Jones; thirty one grandchildren; thirty nine great grandchildren and two great great grandchildren; sisters, Alice (Gib) Wilkinson; brother, James (Carol) Harms; son in law, Bill Dooley; many loved cousins, nieces and nephews.

Pete was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Earlene Harms; sons, Keith Harms and Allen Harms; daughter, Sandra Dooley; brothers, Bill, Bob and Estel Harms; sister, Betty Kelsey. Pete was also preceded by his first wife, Betty (Lange) Harms.

Funeral Services will be at 2:00 p.m., Wednesday, August 29, 2018 at Pentecostal Faith Assembly with Brother Bill Reed officiating. Burial will follow at Friendsville Cemetery where Pete will be laid to rest next to his beloved wife Earlene Harms.

Family and friends may gather for a Visitation from 12:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m., Wednesday, August 29, 2018 at the Pentecostal Faith Assembly.

The family would like to thank River Oaks for their compassionate care that was shown to Pete and the family.

Memorial contributions may be made in Pete’s memory to Pentecostal Faith Assembly Building Fund. Envelopes will be at the church or can be mailed to Keepes Funeral Home, 1500 North Cherry Street, Mount Carmel, IL 62863.

Keepes Funeral Home is serving the family with the arrangements. To view Pete’s tribute wall, leave condolences and purchase flowers for the Harms family, please visit www.keepesfuneralhome.com

Roberta Murphy, 74

Roberta Murphy, 74, of Mount Carmel, Illinois passed away peacefully on Sunday, August 5, 2018 at Deaconess Hospital in Evansville, Indiana. She was born on December 28, 1943 in Christopher, Illinois the daughter of James and Mary (Roberts) Swingle.

Roberta will be remembered as a loving wife, mother and grandmother. In her free time, she loved working puzzles, word searches and watching gameshow’s. She loved to be outdoors and enjoyed fishing.

Roberta will be remembered by her two daughters, Jenny (Kevin) Adams of Allendale, IL and Ann Haywood; step daughter’s, Daisy (Marty Reeves) Caudell and Beverly (Bob) Stuessel of Mount Carmel; step sons, Robert Murphy and David Murphy both of Carmi, IL; grandchildren, Jennifer Johnston, Candie Randolph, Dustin Murphy, Josh Murphy, Christina (Pat) Adams, Billy Moore, Patrick Beuligmann, Ruben (Hollie) Stuessel, Michelle Hemmerlein, Missy Nord, Hunter, Madison, Kennedy and Karlee Adams; brother, Benny Swingle of Christopher, IL; sisters, Rose Baudison and Gloria Bruce; several nieces and nephews.

Roberta was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Jack Murphy; step sons, Mike Harms and Glenn Murphy; step grandchildren, Amanda Murphy, Charlie Stuessel and Mike Harms, Jr.; brothers, Sonny Swingle and Tommy Swingle; sister, Alice Hayes.

In keeping with Roberta’s wishes cremation rites have taken place. Memorial Contributions can be made to Keepes Funeral Home, 1500 North Cherry Street, Mount Carmel, IL 62863 to help the family offset funeral expenses.

Keepes Funeral Home is serving the family with the arrangements. To view Roberta’s tribute wall and leave condolences for the Murphy family, please visit www.keepesfuneralhome.com

Linda F. Landreth, 64

Linda F. Landreth, 64, of Cowling, Illinois passed away at her residence on August 17, 2018. She was born on September 14, 1953 in White County, Illinois the daughter of Frank and Ivalu (Ellis) Dow. Linda married Melvin Landreth and he preceded her in death. Also, preceding Linda in death was her father; and sister, Mary Lou Prosise.

Linda loved crafting and making gifts for family. She owned a crafting business and was very proud of the items that she made. Linda was active in the Cowling community and loved visiting her friends at the community center in Cowling. Linda also loved keeping up with family and friends on social media.

Linda will be remembered by her mother, Ivalu; son, Richard Cook of Carmi, IL; Daughters, Brandie (James) Schmidt of Evansville, IN and Heather Atkinson McAffee of Bloomington, IL; siblings, Jim Dow, Bobby Dow, Marian Dow, Sue Dow and Jennie Dow; six grandchildren and two great grandchildren; several nieces and nephews.

In keeping with Linda’s wishes, she will be cremated and no formal services will be held at this time.

Keepes Funeral Home is serving the family with the arrangements. To view Linda’s tribute wall and leave condolences for the Landreth family, please visit www.keepesfuneralhome.com

Ray Turner, 90

Ray Turner, 90, of Carmi passed away, Sunday August 19, 2018 at Wabash Christian Village. Ray was born in Brownsville, IL on March 18, 1928 to Clifford and Lora (Pyle)Turner. He attended the Big Prairie Grade School, where his father was a teacher. Ray also attended the South Side School in Carmi. He graduated from the Carmi Township High and was a graduate of Lockyear's Business College in Evansville, IN.

    Ray was employed by some well known companies during his employment years. His first employment was with Westinghouse in Evansville. Then he was in the United States Army for two years (one year in Germany). After his discharge from the service he was in business in East Carmi for twelve years at the Ice Cream House which most people remember him by. That wonderful genuine ice cream. After the ice cream business he worked at Whirlpool in Evansville for three years. Having been out of the food and restaurant business for those years, Ray decided to return with a position, of food manager at Walgreens Drug Store in Springfield, IL. Later on, to return to White County he accepted a cooking position with the Best Western Motel in Grayville where he eventually retired. Realizing that retiring made too much spare time he started being a sitter for those who needed care. Also Ray, according to his grandchildren was their best babysitter and he loved it.

    Ray accepted Christ as his personal savior at the age of eleven and joined the First Baptist Church where he has been a faithful member.

    Ray is survived by a son, Monte Turner, of Mt. Carmel; one daughter Rachel Martin and son-in-law, Phillip, of Mt. Carmel; three grandchildren, Hannah, Sarah and Noah; one nephew and his family, David Howell.  He was preceded in death by his father and mother, Clifford and Lora (Pyle) Turner, sister, Hazel Howell and nephew, Pershing Howell.

    Funeral service for Ray Turner, 90, of Carmi will be held at 11:00 a.m.,  Wednesday, August 22, 2018 at Campbell Funeral Home in Carmi with Mike Fields officiating. Burial will be in West Union Cemetery in Carmi will full military rites by the Carmi American Legion and VFW. Visitation will be on Wednesday from 9:00 a.m until 11:00 a.m. at Campbell Funeral Home. Memorial contributions may be made in Ray's memory to the First Baptist Church in Carmi and will be accepted at Campbell Funeral Home.

Alfred “Gene” Adams, 71

Alfred “Gene” Adams, 71, of Mount Carmel, Illinois passed away peacefully on Saturday, August 18, 2018 at Wabash General Hospital in Mount Carmel, Illinois.  He was born on February 27, 1947 in Mount Carmel the son of Alfred and Mildred (Hall) Adams.

Gene will be remembered as a loving father, grandfather, and brother.  He was a very proud grandpa and his great grandson was the highlight of his life.  He was very handy and had a gift to fix just about anything.  He loved working on outboard motors and was always up for the challenge of making things better.  Gene was an avid fisherman and loved spending time on the Wabash River.  During Gene’s working career he worked in the oilfields. Gene was very close with his nephew Roy Adams who the family would like to thank for his willingness to always be there for Gene.  He will be greatly missed by his family and friends. The family would also like to offer a special thank you for his caregivers for their compassionate care given to Gene over the last few years.

Gene will be remembered by his son, Donnie Adams of Mount Carmel; grandchildren, Maddie Adams, Tyler Bennett, Natasha Schauss and Jace Adams; great grandson, Nolan Adams; siblings, Charles (Barbara) Adams and Richard Adams, Brenda Hargrave and Janet (Rick) Oliver all of Mount Carmel; along with several nieces and nephews.

Gene was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Roy Adams; and sister, Lois Holcomb.

Graveside Services will be held at 1:00 p.m., Wednesday, August 22, 2018 at Allendale Cemetery with Pastor Daniel Moore officiating.

Keepes Funeral Home is serving the family with the arrangements.  To view Gene’s tribute wall, leave condolences and purchase flowers for the Adam’s family, please visit www.keepesfuneralhome.com

Ruby Ester (Pearson) Gould, 82

Ruby Ester (Pearson) Gould, 82, of Mt. Carmel, passed away Monday, August 13, 2018, at Linda E. White Hospice Center in Evansville, Indiana.

She was born May 26, 1936, in Mt. Carmel, Illinois, the daughter of Ben and Della (Davis) Pearson. Later in life Ruby married Jerry Gould in Henderson, Kentucky. She spent her life devoted to her son and grandchildren. Known as Mamaw Ruby, her great grandchildren held a special place in her heart. 

Left to cherish Ruby’s memory is her son, Ray Montgomery and wife Carla of Mt. Carmel; grandchildren, Robert Montgomery, Chastity Jarrett, and Branden Doan; three great grandchildren, Cory, Landon and Luke; brothers, Dwight and Charles Pearson; and many nieces and nephews.

Ruby was preceded in death by her parents; husband; and siblings, Connie, Lewis “Buck”, Bobby and Clarence Pearson, Sharon Kay Smith, Rita Garwood and Nina Hinderliter.

Graveside services will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday August 15, 2018 at Highland Memorial Cemetery. She will be laid to rest next to her late husband, Jerry.

Condolences may be made online at www.short-cunninghamfh.com 

Short-Cunningham Funeral Home is honored to serve Ruby’s family.

Funeral Report-Roman Matthew Goodson

Funeral Services were held at 2:00 p.m., Saturday, August 11, 2018 in the Chapel of Keepes Funeral Home to honor the life of Roman Matthew Goodson. Pastor Keith Kepley conducted the service that included the 23rd Psalm, message and benediction. Musical selection during the service included “Tears in Heaven” by Eric Clapton, “Hug Him Once for Me” by Erica McClure and “Time in a Bottle” by Jim Croce. Roman’s short life left a phenomenal impact on not only his parents but all of his family and friends who loved him. To know Roman was to love Roman. Scott and Shelby Goodson would like to thank family and friends for their love, support and prayers during this time. Keepes Funeral Home will continue to lift this family in prayer.

Roman Matthew Goodson, eight-months-old

Roman Matthew Goodson, eight-month-old son of Scott and Shelby (Pitzer) Goodson of Newton, Illinois passed away suddenly on Monday, August 6, 2018 at St. Louis Children’s Hospital in St. Louis Missouri surrounded by the love of his family.

Scott and Shelby welcomed the arrival of their son, Roman Matthew on November 29, 2017 at St. Anthony’s Memorial Hospital in Effingham, Illinois.  His short life left a phenomenal impact on not only his parents but all of his family and friends who loved him.  To know Roman was to love Roman.  All the love he received flowed right back out to those around him.  He loved to smile and could melt your heart.  Roman liked baseball, sharks, his puppy, and his kitties.  He loved giving kisses and having his mother sing to him.  Roman’s family previously attended First Presbyterian Church in Effingham, Illinois where Scott was a minister.  They currently attend Ingraham Christian Church in Ingraham, Illinois.  Roman will be dearly missed by all who knew him.

Roman will forever be remembered by his parents; maternal grandparents, Brian and Christina Pitzer; paternal grandparents, Allen and Renee Goodson; great-grandparents, Charles and Sandra Richardson, Brenda Butler, George and Paula Verdon, Pat and Nina Pitzer; aunts, Paige Edrington, Chelsea Goodson, Brooke Pitzer, Brylee Pitzer; uncle, Jeremy Edrington; great-aunt and uncle, Amber and Denny Berberich; cousins, Emersyn and Lincoln Edrington, Courtney Hughes.

Roman was preceded in death by his great grandparents, Allen “Bud” and Lois Goodson, Lucky Butler; cousin and namesake, Matthew Hughes.

Funeral Services will be 2:00 p.m., Saturday, August 11, 2018 in the Chapel of Keepes Funeral Home with Minister Keith Kepley officiating.

Family and friends may gather for a Visitation from 11:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. in the Chapel of Keepes Funeral Home.

In lieu of flowers, gifts of love will be accepted by the family to help with medical expenses.  Memorial contributions may be made in Roman’s memory to St. Louis Children’s Hospital, St. Louis MO, St. Anthony’s Memorial Hospital in Effingham, IL or Treehouse Too Daycare where Roman attended.  Envelopes will be available at the Funeral Home or may be mailed to Keepes Funeral Home, 1500 North Cherry St., Mt. Carmel, IL  62863.

Keepes Funeral Home is serving the family with the arrangements.  To view Roman’s tribute wall and leave condolences for the Goodson family, please visit www.keepesfuneralhome.com

Funeral Report-Melvin Ray Vaughn

The funeral service for Melvin Ray Vaughn was held Thursday, August 2, 2018 at 2:00 p.m. in the Chapel of Short Funeral Home.  Pastor Gary Underwood conducted the service.  It included Scripture, reading of the Obituary, Funeral Message and Prayer.  Music included CD recordings of “The Wabash Cannonball by Roy Acuff, “Surely the Presence” by Don Marsh and “Amazing Grace” Easter Music Piano.  The burial service was conducted by Pastor Underwood at Highland Memorial Cemetery.  Pallbearers were Beau Henson, Trevor Hargrave, Steve Yonaka, Jake Hocking, Kip Lagow, and Scott Lagow.

Funeral Report-William Jackson “Jack” Wheatley

            The graveside funeral service for William Jackson “Jack” Wheatley was held Saturday, August 04, 2018 at 11:00 a.m. at Friendsville Cemetery, Friendsville, Illinois.  The family gathered at Short Funeral Home in Mt. Carmel prior to the service. There the Patriot Guard honored Jack for service to his country, with a walk through salute and presentation of a flag. They escorted the family to the cemetery. Pastor Gene Seals conducted the service at the cemetery with Scripture and Prayer. Family and Friends shared stories with those in attendance.  Pallbearers were Mark Goodson, Scott Moler, David Haase, Addison Moler, Cameron Kieffer, and Steve Haase; honorary pallbearers were Eldon Blythe and Don Deisher.

Funeral Report-Connie Kaye Deisher

Graveside Services were held at 1:00 p.m., Monday, July 30, 2018 at Highland Memorial Cemetery to honor the life of Connie Kaye Deisher. Reverend Doris Beckerman conducted the service that included prayer, scripture passages and fond memories of Connie’s life. Pallbearers were Logan Baker, Tyler Coomer, Levi Brady, David Reavis, Michael Coburn and John Schell. Keepes Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of Connie Kaye Deisher.