Dillard A. English, 101

Dillard A. English, 101, of Mt. Carmel, Illinois passed away Saturday, September 5, 2020 at Deaconess Midtown Hospital in Evansville IN.

He was born October 7, 1918 in Pike County, Indiana the son of Wilford and Anna Murl (Hart) English.

He married Hilda Foster May 26, 1942 in St. Louis MO. They had sixty-two years together before her death February 25, 2005.

Corporal Dillard A. English served his country in “Patton’s Own” Fourth Armored Division of the Third Army in the European Theater, England and France, during World War II. For his service he was awarded two Purple Hearts presented in the field, a Bronze star and distinction from the country of France. He had major wounds twice and recovered to return home to his wife and family.

Dillard is survived by his two children, Patricia and her husband Ron Stuessel of Mt. Carmel and Steve and his wife Barbara English of Evansville; five grandchildren Robbin (Bruce) Ford, Jill (Francis) Speth, Jason (Joni) Stuessel, Jeffrey (Wendy) English, Michael English; five great grandchildren, Nicholas and Zack (Erika) Ford, Thessa (Charley) Adams, Jaxton Stuessel, Austin English; three great-great grandchildren Macy and Max Ford and Tinley Adams; and two sisters, Kathleen Barnett of Pike County IN and Wanda Lee Houchins of Washington IN.

He was preceded in death by his parents,  wife, Hilda, and a brother, Ishmael English.

Visitation and Service for Mr. English will be Tuesday, September 8, 2020 in the Chapel of Short Funeral Home in Mt. Carmel. Visitation will be from 9:00 to 11:00 a.m. The Funeral Service will begin at 11:00 a.m. Burial with full Military rites will follow at Walnut Hills Cemetery, Petersburg, Indiana.

Wearing of masks and social distancing is recommended. Enter the building through the garage door to maintain one-way traffic.

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

Short-Cunningham Funeral Home is honored to serve the English family.

Sarah Katherine Alka, 88

Sarah Katherine Alka, 88, of Mt. Carmel passed away Friday, September 4, 2020 at Wabash General Hospital.

She was born August 22, 1932 in Wabash County, IL, the daughter of Richard L. and Eula L. (Nelson) Keneipp.

Sarah was a member of the 1950 graduating class at Mount Carmel High School. She later attended the University of Kentucky and remained a lifelong UK basketball fan. After returning home, Sarah worked for Tide Water Oil Company. She married John W. Alka on September 8, 1956 at the First Christian Church in Mt. Carmel. They enjoyed fifty-four years before his passing January 1, 2011.

Sarah thoroughly enjoyed being a homemaker, farmer’s wife, mother and grandmother. She was a room mother for her children at Keensburg Grade School and leader of the Younger Set 4-H club. Sarah was an avid gardener and loved working with her irises and daylilies. She was a strong supporter of the Mt. Carmel Golden Aces and all her grandchildren’s activities.

Sarah is survived by her three daughter, Linda A. (Lenes) Snow of Mt. Carmel, Freda A. Alka of Mt. Carmel, Patricia A. (Steve) Cluster of Ocala, Florida; one son, Jon A. (Kathy) Alka of Mt. Carmel; five grandchildren, Craig A. (Jessica) Snow of Albuquerque NM, Jennifer L. (Aaron) Crummley of Evansville, IN, Matthew A. (Meredith) Alka, Steve L. (Kiley) Alka, and Julie A. (Matthew Herman) Alka, all of Mt. Carmel; twelve great-grandchildren, Carson S. Crummley, Adelynn H. Snow, Lane R. Alka, Ava G. Alka, Makenna L. Crummley, Beckett Wm. Snow, Jase M. Alka, Cloe A. Alka, Cooper J. Crummley, Mason D. Alka, Reid A. Alka and baby Snow arriving in December; sister Joanne Higgins of Bowling Green KY and brother Cyrus Keneipp of Mt. Carmel.

Preceding her in death are her husband, John, parents, brother Richard L. Keneipp and granddaughter, Ann Snow

Funeral Services for Sarah Alka will be Monday, September 7, 2020 at 12:00 noon in the Chapel of Short Funeral Home. Visitation with family and friends will begin at 10:00 a.m. until the time of the service. Burial will follow at Highland Memorial Cemetery.

Wearing of masks and social distancing is recommended. Enter the building through the garage door to maintain one way traffic.

Memorial contributions can be made in Sarah’s honor to the Mt. Carmel Sports Boosters or the Mt. Carmel High School Alumni Foundation.

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

Short-Cunningham Funeral Home is honored to serve the Alka family.

Helen Elizabeth Peters, 86

Helen Elizabeth Peters, 86, of Mt. Carmel, Illinois, passed away Monday, August 31, 2020, at her home in the Villas of Holly Brook.

She was born November 4, 1933, the daughter of Rex B. and Pearl (Beal) Price in Wabash County, Illinois. Helen graduated from Mt. Carmel High School. On October 13, 1958, Helen married Edward Peters in Wabash County, Illinois. She was a member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church, Mt. Carmel, Illinois.

Helen worked, through the years, at Mt. Carmel Lumber Company and Charles L. Miller Insurance. She enjoyed gardening, walking and working puzzles. The highlight of her life was babysitting her grandchildren and great-grandchildren who called her “Gram”.

Left to cherish Helen’s memory are her children Jeanne (Rob) Rabe of Greeley, Colorado, Carol S. (Randy Rigg) Smith of Mt. Carmel, Illinois, Linda L. (Jim) Macer of Mt. Carmel, Illinois, and Julie A. Peters of Evansville, Indiana; grandchildren, Jeremiah and Brandi Macer of Evansville, Indiana, Jacob and Amanda Macer, Jenny and Steve Perry and Drew Smith, all of Mt. Carmel, Illinois; great-grandchildren, Eli and Zeke Macer, Reece, Wade, Kole and Ellie Macer, Dane, Karsyn and Owen Perry; and siblings, Roberta (Leon) Stutzman, Marie Kolb and Jeannette (Gene) Shepard.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Edward; siblings, Ruth Wood, James Price, Nelson Price, Julia Adams, Willis Price and George Price.

A graveside service will be held Friday, September 4, 2020, at St. Mary’s Catholic Cemetery, at 2:00 p.m.

Memorials may be made to Relay for Life and St. Mary’s School. 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 Helen’s family.

Rose Ann Griggs, 83

Rose Ann Griggs, 83, of Sumner, Illinois, formerly of Mount Carmel, passed away peacefully in her sleep at home surrounded by her loving family.  She lost her courageous battle with cancer on Sunday, August 30, 2020.  She was born on August 8, 1937 in St. Joseph (Owensboro), Kentucky, the daughter of Elizabeth “Bessie” Fogle.

After Graduating High School in 1955, Rose joined the United States Air Force where after one look across the room, she met and married the love of her life, Delbert B. Griggs on December 21, 1957.  Together, they have spent sixty-two years of marriage centered around their family.

Upon the birth of her first child, Rose was honorably discharged in 1958 and continued her greatest accomplishment of being a devoted wife and mother to her six children.  She was recognized numerous times for her volunteer work in Military Family Services.  “Rosie”, as she was fondly called by the preschool children she cared for as a helper, always had a ready smile for them.  Rose loved to sew, quilt, and do jigsaw puzzles.   Rose could be often found creating many crafts that she used to decorate her home for the changing seasons.  She was raised in the Catholic faith and was a member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church.  Rose instilled the love of God in all who knew her and will be deeply missed by her family and friends.

Rose will be remembered by her loving husband, Delbert Griggs; her children, Michael E. (Melissa) Griggs of Morganfield, KY, Patrick W. (Penny) Griggs of Spotsylvania, VA, Catherine L. (David) Young of Meridianville, AL, Sharon R. Deisher of Mount Carmel, and Jay A. (Bonnie) Griggs of Mount Carmel; grandchildren, Rebecca Diane (Griggs) Waddell, Christopher, Christian, and Caitlin Marie Griggs, Zachary, Eric and Adrianna Rose Young, Holly Ann (Deisher) Salazar, Brandon Griggs, AJ Cadigan and Jayla Rose Griggs; five great grandchildren, Jacqueline LaMura and Bailey Waddell, Evelynrose and Elias Griggs and George Adams-Griggs; sisters, Louise Payne, Theresa Payne and Stella Payne; many loved nieces and nephews.

Rose was preceded in death by her devoted mother, Bessie Fogle; daughter, Cynthia Diane Griggs; grandson, Brian Griggs; siblings, Victorine Edwards and Herman Fogle.

Family and friends are invited to gather for a Visitation from 12:00 p.m.- 1:30 p.m., Wednesday, September 2, 2020 in the Chapel of Keepes Funeral Home.  Social distancing practices will be in place and the family has requested those in attendance to wear facial coverings.

Graveside Services will be at 2:00 p.m., Wednesday, September 2, 2020 at St. Mary’s Catholic Cemetery in Mount Carmel, Illinois with Father Bill Rowe officiating.

Memorial contributions may be made in Rose’s memory to Residential Hospice Healthcare.  Envelopes will be at the funeral home 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 Rose’s tribute wall, purchase flowers and leave condolences for the Griggs family, please visit www.keepesfuneralhome.com

Funeral Report-Eric Wayne Johnson

Funeral Services were held at 10:00 a.m., Saturday, August 29, 2020 in the Chapel of Keepes Funeral Home to honor the life of Eric Wayne Johnson.  Pastor Kevin McGinnis officiated the service.  Scripture passages included, Psalm 23, Psalm 121, John 11:25-27 and Revelation 21:1-5.  Eric’s son, James “Bobby” Johnson shared fond memories of Eric’s life.  Musical selection during the service included, “The Old Rugged Cross” by Alan Jackson and “Amazing Grace” also by Alan Jackson.  Members of Allendale Fire Department and Mount Carmel Fire Department were in attendance to honor Eric’s faithful service to the Allendale Fire Department for thirty-five years.  Burial took place at Wabash Presbyterian Cemetery.  Mike Cunningham played bagpipes while Eric was carried to his final resting place. A Last Call was conducted by the Allendale Fire Department at the conclusion of the service. Pallbearers were Alan Johnson, Cale Johnson, Bobby Johnson, Tommy Alexander, Jabez Coggan and Bill Johnson.  Keepes Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of Eric Wayne Johnson.

Patricia Anne Williams, 91

Patricia Anne Williams, 91, of Mt. Carmel, Illinois passed away Thursday, August 27, 2020 at her residence with her daughters and granddaughter at her side.

She was born May 16, 1929 in Michigan, the daughter of Myrtle (York) and Byrl Kinney. She was raised in First Christian Church, Disciples of Christ and had been a member since 1940. She graduated from Mt. Carmel High School class of 1948. She married Bob Williams on June 4, 1948. She was a talented seamstress who could knit, crochet and counted cross stitch beautifully. She was an avid birdwatcher and went on many bird counts for the Audubon Society.

Pat was a great fan of the Wabash Valley College Warrior basketball team, attending all of the ladies’ and men’s home games each year.

She always enjoyed sharing her time to assist others. Pat was a past volunteer for Hospice, driving patients to their doctor’s appointments. She volunteered for Cookie Day at her church taking cookies to nursing homes and the homebound. She was a member of the Mt. Carmel High School Alumni Association and looked forward to preparing for and attending the yearly reunions.

Ma Pat was a wonderful Mother, Grandmother, Great Grandmother, Great-Great Grandmother, Aunt and Friend who was loved and cherished and will be missed by many. She had many friends who she dearly loved.

Pat is survived by her son, Steve Williams; daughters Lynn Deputy and husband Steve; Sarah Wiser and husband Tim; grandchildren, Brian Deputy, Matthew Deputy, Ian Wiser, Devan Wiser, Gabe Williams and wife Kristin, Jonathan Williams and wife Brandi; great grandchildren, Tyler Ann Greenwell and husband Zach, Dylan Deputy, Nathan Deputy, Bentley

Williams, Harleigh Williams, Blake Williams, Julian Williams; and great-great grandchild Crew Greenwell. Ma Pat adored them all!

Pat was preceded death by her parents, husband, infant daughter, Sharon Anne, son, John and brother Myron Kinney.

A Private Graveside Service for Mrs. Williams will be held Tuesday, September 1, 2020 at Highland Memorial Cemetery. For family and friends there will be a public drive through visitation at the cemetery from 11:00 a.m. until 12 noon. Please enter the cemetery by way of the North entrance gate.

Donations in memory of Pat can be made to the Mt. Carmel First Christian Church-Disciples of Christ Church in Mt. Carmel. Envelopes will be available at the cemetery and funeral home.

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

Short-Cunningham Funeral Home is honored to serve the Williams’ family.

Mary Charlotte (Jarvis) Martino, 76

Mary Charlotte (Jarvis) Martino, 76, passed away Monday morning, August 24, 2020.

Mary was born in Parkersburg, West Virginia on January 26, 1944, to Harold Roy and Mary Helen (Webber) Jarvis. She was a graduate of Mt. Carmel High School Class of 1963, and a member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Mt. Carmel for most of her life. She was married to John Martino November 11, 1971 in Phoenix, Arizona.

Mary is survived by her husband, John, of forty-eight years; sisters, Ann (Brian) Olmsted of Monroe, Michigan, and Jane (Norman) Coleman of Oak Park, Illinois. Mary had a nurturing spirit, was fond of cats, and enjoyed listening to music from the 1950’s.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Friday, September 4, 2020 at 10:00 a.m. at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Mt. Carmel. Burial will follow at St. Mary Catholic Cemetery.

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

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

Evelyn Jade Phelps, 1

Evelyn Jade Phelps, 1, of Keensburg, Illinois, passed away Wednesday, August 26, 2020, at Wabash General Hospital with her mother and father by her side.

She was born August 4, 2019, the daughter of Tyler Phelps and Kelsey Allen at Richland County Memorial Hospital in Olney, Illinois. Evelyn was an amazing baby whose time with us was short but filled with love and happiness that was as contagious as her smile. She loved reading books with mommy and daddy, dancing to almost any song she heard, and getting into places she didn’t belong. She was a star that shone so bright that her time was short but those that go to see her shine will forever be touched by her beauty and positivity.

Left to cherish her memory are her parents; siblings, Leon Phelps, Ezekiel Snow, Addalyn Sanders and Zayden Doan; maternal grandparents, Bonnie Allen and Burl Carmichael; paternal grandparents, Cynthia Phelps and Stephen Price; maternal great-grandparents, Beverly Perrin; paternal great-grandparents, Sue Price and Eddie and Aleta Phelps; paternal aunts and uncles, Bridgette Price, Bethany Price, Bobbie Price, Lucas Price, Natasha Lingo, Robert Ridgely, Telisha Ridgley, and Doug Scott; maternal aunts and uncles, Joseph Leonard and Nick Toole; also several great aunts and uncles.

Evelyn was preceded in death by cousins Tripp Lingo, Amber Bunting and Dylan Bunting; and, great-aunt Jennifer Phelps.

Family and friends are invited to a visitation Sunday, August 30, 2020, from 12:00 noon until 3:00 p.m. in the Chapel of Short Funeral Home. (Please enter from the garage.) A graveside service will follow at Highland Memorial Cemetery Baby Land, at 3:30 p.m.

Memorials may be made in the memory of Evelyn Jade to her parents. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home, mailed to Short-Funeral Home at P.O. Box 397, Mt. Carmel, Illinois 62863 or can be made on the funeral home’s website.

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

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

Kathy D. Hayden, 62

Kathy D. Hayden, 62, of Mt. Carmel, Illinois, passed away August 26, 2020, in Nashville, Tennessee, at St. Thomas West Hospital.

She was born January 21, 1958, in Gibson County, Indiana, the daughter of Granville and Geveva (Bragg) Jaynes.  Kathy attended Wood Memorial High School in Oakland City, Indiana.  She graduated from Wabash Valley College nursing program, with a degree as a registered nurse.   Kathy worked in the ER and ICU at Wabash General Hospital, Deaconess Hospital and Gibson General Hospital.  She was an EMT for the Wabash County Ambulance Service and an advanced paramedic for Gibson County.  Kathy loved spending time with her family.

Left to cherish Kathy’s memory are her children, Jason M. Hayden and Jeremy W. Hayden and his fiancé Shannon Speth, all of Mt. Carmel, Illinois; and grandchildren, Elizabeth, Avery, Trevor, Levi, Brayden, Keegan and Savannah.

Kathy was preceded in death by her parents.

Per her wishes, she was cremated, and a memorial service will be held at a later date.

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

Short-Cunningham Funeral Home is honored to serve the Hayden family.

Eric Wayne Johnson, 57

Eric Wayne Johnson, 57, of Allendale, Illinois, passed away Sunday,   August 23, 2020 at home, surrounded by the love of his family.  He was born July 16, 1963 in Effingham, Illinois, the son of Jack W. and Bonnie (Mattox) Johnson.  He married Stella Malone on September 14, 1986 and she survives.

Eric was employed by the Illinois Department of Transportation as an Aggregate Supervisor.  He served as a Lieutenant with the Allendale Fire Department for thirty-five years. In his spare time Eric enjoyed hunting.  He loved his family dearly and his grandchildren meant the world to him.  Eric was a member of the Wabash Presbyterian at Orio.  He will be missed by all who knew him. 

Eric will forever be remembered by his loving wife of thirty-three years, Stella; two sons, James Johnson and his wife Samantha of Mount Carmel, Alan Johnson of Allendale; grandchildren, Braxton, Benjamin, Lucy, Catherine and Madilyn; parents, Jack and Bonnie Johnson; one sister, Cheryl Coggan and her husband Jabez; nieces, Jaclyn Meade, Maia Marquez; and one nephew Jabez Coggan IV.

Family and friends are invited to gather for a Visitation from 5:00 p.m.–8:00 p.m., Friday, August 28, 2020 in the Chapel of Keepes Funeral Home.  Social distancing practices will be in place.  The family has requested guest to wear facial coverings.

Funeral Services will be 10:00 a.m., Saturday, August 29, 2020 in the Chapel of Keepes Funeral Home with Pastor Kevin McGinnis officiating.  Burial will follow at Wabash Presbyterian Cemetery in Wabash County, Illinois.

Memorial contributions may be made in Eric’s memory to the Allendale Fireman’s Club.

Envelopes will be at the funeral home 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 Eric’s tribute wall, purchase flowers and leave a note of condolences for the Johnson family, please visit www.keepesfuneralhome.com

William R. “Bill” Wheat, 76

William R. “Bill” Wheat, 76, of Mount Carmel, passed away on Thursday, August 20, 2020 at Ascension St. Vincent Hospital in Evansville, Indiana. He was born on November 14, 1943 in Mt. Vernon, Indiana, the son of James Olan and Mary Louise (Hames) Wheat. Throughout the years, Bill acquired the nickname of Buck. Bill married Linda Featherlin Sutton on June 29, 1986 and together they enjoyed thirty-four years of marriage.

Bill graduated from Linton High School Class of 1961 in Linton, Indiana. During his high school time, he was President of the Linton High Automotive Club and also enjoyed his time on the football field. Bill was All American while playing left and right guard and also was in the Letterman’s Club. Following high school, Bill attended Diesel Mechanic College in Nashville, Tennessee and became a proud member of the United Mine Workers Association (U.M.W.A.). He worked at AMAX Coal Company, Sun Spot Coal Mine in Mt. Vernon, Illinois as a diesel mechanic where he was a drag line operator. Following the closure of the Sun Spot Mine, Bill started working at the Wabash Coal Mine in Keensburg, Illinois in 1986 and retired from the Wabash Coal Mine in 2006.

Among Bill’s hobbies, he loved going out to eat and visiting with family and friends. He was an avid NASCAR fan and loved watching Dale Earnhardt. Bill never met a stranger and always enjoyed conversations with others. He also enjoyed being outdoors and spending time on the water fishing. Bill loved animals, especially his yorkies. He will be missed by his family and all who knew him.

Bill will be remembered by his loving wife, Linda Wheat; sons, Alan Wheat and Billy Joe Sutton; daughters, Diane (Jay) Ingledue and Stacey Sutton; two grandchildren, Tanner Wheat and Logan Sutton. Bill was preceded in death by his parents.

A Celebration of Life will be held at 6:00 p.m., Wednesday, August 26, 2020, in the Chapel of Keepes Funeral Home. Social distancing practices will be in place.

In lieu of floral contributions and gifts, it would have been Bill’s wishes that memorial contributions be made to Wabash County Animal Shelter Buddies. Envelopes will be at the funeral home 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 Bill’s tribute wall and leave condolences for the Wheat family, please visit www.keepesfuneralhome.com

Olive Maria Farley Turner, 96

Olive Maria Farley Turner was born Sept. 10, 1923 in Corsicana, Texas. The daughter of Jack and Kittie Mae Farley, Maria graduated from Mt. Carmel High School in Mt. Carmel, Illinois in 1941 and Protestant Deaconess Hospital Nursing school in 1944 as a Registered Nurse.  Maria passed away July 23, 2020 at age of 96.  In March 1947, Maria's sister Katie introduced Maria (Olive) to her future husband, Clarence Otto Turner, who she Married on June 22, 1947. They moved to Centralia, Illinois where their children Howard Farley and Ellen Maria were born. In 1964, the family was transferred to Lodi, California. Clarence and Maria were married 61 years when Clarence passed away in 2008.

Maria worked for Lodi Memorial Hospital for 20 years, ending her career as a labor and delivery nurse, proud of all the babies whose deliveries she assisted, including her grandson, Jonathan Neal Ashbaugh in 1984. She proudly wore her nursing hat as a member of the Cappies, a group of nurses under the tutelage of Lorraine Pope, her mentor. She was an incredible seamstress, quilter, and crafter acquiring an intense passion and skill for lapidary jewelry after her retirement. Her entire world changed when she became best grandmother Ever to Ellen's children, Kristen and Jonathan in 1981. 

She was a long time member of the Lodi Gem and Mineral Club, Greater Lodi Kiwanis Club, U. S. Gem and Mineral Federation and the First Baptist Church in Lodi.

Maria is survived by her son, Howard Farley Turner (Katherine) of Stockton; her daughter, Ellen Turner Ashbaugh of Lodi; granddaughter, Kristen Ashbaugh-Helmreich (Nick); her grandson, Maj. Jonathan Ashbaugh (Kalli Mannos); great grandchildren, Olive Ruby Helmreich, Theodore Alan Helmreich and Spiros Mannos Ashbaugh, all of Reno; sister-in-law, Irmagene Fearheiley Alfeld of Evansville, Indiana; and numerous nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents, Jack and Mae Farley; husband, Clarence Turner; and sisters, Louise Farley Doty and Katie Farley Lawrence.

The Turner-Ashbaugh family wishes to express our heartfelt gratitude and appreciation to Corey Wright and his team of dedicated staff at Vienna rehabilitation for their incredible care of Maria for the past 6 years. 

Private family services will be held at Highland Memorial Cemetery in Mt. Carmel, Illinois at a later date.

Daisy “Cleo” Belcher, 92

Daisy “Cleo” Belcher, 92, of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, formerly of Mt. Carmel, Illinois, passed away August 12, 2020 in Oklahoma City.

Cleo was born December 15, 1927 in Holum, Louisiana, the daughter of Davis “Slim” and Lillian Oressa (Greer) Lambert. She married Henry “Hank” Belcher June 15, 1948 in Mt. Carmel, Illinois. He preceded her in death on July 31, 1985.

Cleo is a member of First Baptist Church in Mt. Carmel. Her life was a living example of her favorite Bible Verse Psalm 19:14 “Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in your sight, Oh Lord, my truth and my redeemer” taught to her by her Grandmother Greer. She was a dedicated mother who instilled Christian values and the love of God in her children. She treasured every moment spent with her grandchildren and great grandchildren. She was a highly skilled seamstress and excelled in growing gardenias and baking mini apple cakes – both she would deliver all over town. She enjoyed shopping, eating out with her friends and could be found most evenings at Hogg Heaven.

She worked as a Senior Aide at WADI, WVC, and Wabash Senior Citizens. Cleo retired at the age of 77.

Those remaining to share her memory include her children, Gary D. and wife Sue Belcher of Cape Girardeau, MO, C. Renee and husband Tom Altadonna of Oklahoma City OK; four grandchildren, Sara Belcher, Jackson, TN, Katie (Josh) Reimann, Taylorsville, UT, Natalie (Ryan) Smith, Oklahoma City OK, Nathan (Shelby) Altadonna, Arlington,TX; eight great grandchildren Jameson, Eliza Michele and Mackenzie Smith, Lily, Noah, and Isaac Reimann, Piper and Nellie Altadonna and brother Leo Lambert of Mt. Carmel, IL.

Cleo was preceded in death by her parents, husband of 37 years, “Hank”.

A private burial has taken place. A public Memorial service is being planned for a later date.

The family would like to extend a special Thank You to the staff at Sommerset Memory Care and Physicians Hospice for their loving care.

Donations in Cleo’s memory can be given to Physicians Choice Hospice, 14324 N Western Ave, Edmond, OK 73013 or First Baptist Church, 130 W 6th Street, Mt. Carmel, IL 62863.

Also the family wants to thank Larry Hodgson and his staff at the funeral home for their extraordinary care given under challenging times.

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

Short-Cunningham Funeral Home is honored to serve Belcher family.

Lynda Denise Salomon Margelin Perry Brown, age 60

Lynda Denise Salomon Margelin Perry Brown, age 60, of Mount Carmel, Illinois, passed away on Tuesday, August 11th, 2020 in Mt. Carmel, Illinois and was the first to die of coronavirus in Wabash County.

Lynda was born in San Francisco, CA on December 7, 1959 and grew up a free spirit with her younger brother George Margelin and little sister, Chemene Margelin-Rice.  In 1977 their mom moved Lynda and her siblings to Mt. Carmel; where Lynda raised her sons that she often bragged about, where she found peace with her family, and where she met the best friends of her life.

Lynda had lots of gifts but creativity was most prominent. It reflected in everything from her stylish outfits to the way she decorated.  She could turn a room’s corner into a glamorous museum, transform a moment into a life-long-memory and make anyone feel like a supermodel with her natural make-up and hair skills.  That creative verve led her to getting a degree in cosmetology at Wabash County Community College and eventually opening her own business, “Nails By Lynda” where she became known as an avant-garde nail stylist. She loved chatting and listening to her clients and in her later years she became dedicated to helping people in need.  She went on to work in the dietary department at Oakview Heights where she tenderly helped the disabled and those most in need of a friendly ear.  She taught us about strength, endurance, and how to turn molehills into mountains so we can stand tall and learn from our lessons.  Lynda lived the way she died; loved, empowered & carefree.

Lynda is survived by sons, Cameron Bryce Brown and JEVPIC; siblings, Chemene Margelin, George Margelin, Candice Husselman and Michael Penrod; extended family, Constance Folsom, Christy Doan, Craig Rice, Roy Moore, Allyson Margelin, David Perry and Connie Penrod; her beloved nephews, Gabriel Folsom Margelin, Sampson Folsom Margelin and Levi Folsom Margelin. 

Lynda is preceded in death by her parents, Carmen Cruz Margelin & Juan Soloman, stepfather, George Margelin, sister, Carolyn Turner and her husband, Jeff Brown.

In lieu of flowers a donation may be given to the Lynda Brown Memorial Fund at First Bank, 601 Market St. Mt. Carmel, IL 62863, checks payable to Gabriel Margelin and this Saturday 8-22-20, Betty Jackson is having a food truck memorial on the corner of 9th & Market St. in Mt. Carmel and Backyard Markets is doing a fundraiser on 10-3-20.  A memorial for Lynda and all COVID-19 victims will be announced at a later date and you’ll all be invited.

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

Shaun Prosise, 48

Shaun Prosise, 48, of Mount Carmel, Illinois, passed away on Wednesday, August 19, 2020 at his residence surrounded by the love of his family. He was born on July 14, 1972 in Mount Carmel, the son of James and Kay (Soden) Prosise. Shaun graduated from Mount Carmel High School Class of 1991. Throughout his high school years, Shaun made the best memories on and off the football field. He was dedicated to being better and a great teammate on and off the field. Shaun will always be remembered as a loyal friend to many. He loved to have fun and was always the life of the party. Shaun had a great sense of humor; loved to joke and keep things light-hearted. He loved spending time with family and friends, camping and fishing. Shaun always loved to cruise river road with friends and listen to his favorite songs. In his free time, Shaun loved cheering on the Dallas Cowboys. He was very proud of his family and treasured the time he spent with them. Shaun was a very hard worker and spent many years working in the oilfields as a pumper. He attended the Union Mission Church. Shaun will be missed by his family and all who knew him. Shaun will be remembered by his fiancé, Lesia Colborn; mother, Kay Prosise; three sons, Jordan Prosise, Jasper Prosise, and Bryar Prosise of Mount Carmel; one daughter, Taylor (Zac) Stephens; two grandchildren, Stella Stephens and Kendrick Prosise; six brothers, Mark (Trenia) Wagner, Billy Wagner, Kevin (Kelly) Wagner, Scott Wagner, Terry (Ruth) Prosise, and Tim (Tonia) Prosise; two sisters, Sherry Buckman and Sheila Welch; many loved cousins, nieces and nephews. Shaun was preceded in death by his father; two sisters, Kelly Harrelson and Kristi Lofton. In keeping with Shaun’s wishes, cremation will take place and a memorial service will be held at a later date. Shaun was loved by so many and the family would like to express a sincere thank you to all Shaun’s friends who have reached out during this time and shared fond memories. They would like you to remember Shaun in your own special way. Memorial contributions can be made to the Prosise family directly. Envelopes can be mailed to the family at Keepes Funeral Home, 1500 North Cherry Street, Mount Carmel, IL, 62863. Keepes Funeral Home is serving the family with the arrangements. To view Shaun’s tribute wall and leave condolences for the Prosise family, please visit www.keepesfuneralhome.com

Douglas Curt Price, 72

Douglas Curt Price, 72, of Mount Carmel, Illinois, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, August 19, 2020 at his residence surrounded by the love of his family.  He was born on May 14, 1948 in Detroit, Michigan, the son of Buehl and Florence (Balnaves) Price.  Doug married his high school sweetheart, Laura Jeffords on April 21, 1967 and together they enjoyed fifty-three years of marriage.

Doug faithfully served his Country in the United States Navy during the Vietnam War.  Doug earned the National Defense Service Medal, Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal and the Vietnam Service Medal with two bronze stars. 

Doug’s greatest joy was his family and his dog, Diego.  He treasured the time he spent with all his family, especially his grandchildren.  His fondest memories were of camping trips with his whole family.  Doug was very handy and loved working on projects around the house.  He also loved working outdoors in his yard.  Among his hobbies, he liked building model cars and naval ships. 

Doug earned a degree as a licensed electrician. He worked at Zachary and also Pacific Press until his retirement.  Doug was a member of the VFW and the American Legion.

Doug will be remembered by his loving wife, Laura Price; four children, Brian (Lora) Price, Pete (Maleaha) Price, Frank (Heather) Price, and Tanya (Joe) Witsman; grandchildren, Sebastian (Mackenzie) Price, Kirstie Price, Beau Price, Brenndan Price, Nolan Feldpausch, Brayden Eagleson, Allie Eagleson, Kiara Price, Kyla Price, Kaedon Price, Kailey Price, Dylan Banks, McKenzie Smith, Madison Smith, and Liam Witsman; great grandchildren, Harlow Price, Eloise Price, Ivy Price, Delilah Price, Kyler Price, Kleo Price and Karter Price; sisters, Debra (Kevin) Lockry and Laurie (Rick) Rogowski.  Doug was preceded in death by his parents.

Family and friends are invited to gather for a Visitation from 11:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m., Friday, August 21, 2020, in the Chapel of Keepes Funeral Home.  Per the families wishes, masks will be required and social distancing practices will be in place.

Funeral Services will be at 1:00 p.m., Friday, August 21, 2020, in the Chapel of Keepes Funeral Home with Pastor Brad Garner officiating.  Following the service, Full Military Honors will be presented by members of USAMV, our local Honor Guard.  Burial will follow at Bethel Cemetery at a later date.

Memorial contributions may be made in Doug’s memory to the Salvation Army.  Envelopes will be at the funeral home 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 Doug’s tribute wall, purchase flowers and leave condolences for the Price family, please visit www.keepesfuneralhome.com

Charles C. “Connie” Speth, Sr., 87

Charles C. “Connie” Speth, Sr., 87, of Allendale, Illinois, passed away on Wednesday, August 19, 2020, at Oakview Heights Continuous Care and Rehab.  He was born on December 21, 1932 in Vincennes, Indiana, the son of David B. and Norine J. (Frey) Speth.  Connie married Lois Sandwell on January 26, 1963.  Connie and Lois spent fifty-seven years of marriage centered around their family.

Connie was a loving husband, father and grandfather.  He loved being outdoors and spending time with his family.  In his free time, he enjoyed fishing and watching St. Louis Cardinals baseball.  He also enjoyed playing a good game of softball and bowling.  Connie also liked playing cards with his family and friends. He worked as a water well driller for Speth Plumbing.  Connie was a very hard worker and began working at the age of sixteen until his retirement at the age of eighty.   He was a member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church.  Connie will be missed by his family and all who knew him.

Connie will be remembered by his loving wife, Lois Speth of Allendale; three sons, Francis Speth and wife, Jill of Mount Carmel, Donald Speth and wife, Sherri of Mount Carmel and Charles Speth, Jr. and wife, Elizabeth of Allendale; four grandchildren, Thessa Adams, Alexis Speth, Karina Speth and Hannah Speth; great grandchildren, Tinley Adams, Preston Adams and Parker Adams; sister, Mary Witsman; many loved nieces and nephews.

Connie was preceded in death by his parents; brother, David Speth; sister, Elizabeth Brackin; brothers in law, Marlin Witsman and Evert Brackin; sister in law, Fern Speth.

Family and friends are invited to gather for a Visitation from 9:00 a.m.- 10:30 a.m., Saturday, August 22, 2020, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church. Social distancing practices will be in place and masks would be appreciated.  A Rosary Service will begin at 10:30 a.m. at the Church.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 a.m., Saturday, August 22, 2020, St. Mary’s Catholic Church with Father Robert Zwilling officiating.  Burial will follow at Allendale Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made in Connie’s memory to Allendale Fire Department.

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 Connie’s tribute wall, purchase flowers and leave condolences for the Speth family, please visit www.keepesfuneralhome.com

Aleta Edna Lewis, 99

Aleta Edna Lewis, 99, peacefully returned to her Heavenly home on August 9, 2020 in Hyrum, Utah, after a life well lived. She was born to Harley Sereno Smith and Janie McCrary on March 22, 1921 in Wabash County, Illinois.

Aleta was one of the few remaining members of the "Greatest Generation." She entered the U.S. Army at 22 years of age and served 2 1/2 years in the Women’s Army Corp in Washington D.C. during WWII. It was during her service that she met James George Lewis and they were married on August 24, 1946 in Pennsville, New Jersey. Together they had 3 daughters - JoElla (Larry) Survance, Michigan; Georgia (Dennis) Seals, Utah; Marcella (Dale) Miller, Illinois.

Aleta knew the value of hard work and supported her family and community for 30-plus years working at Security Bank and Trust in Mount Carmel, Illinois. She followed that as a secretary for the Parkview Christian Church until in her late 80’s.

She and George raised large gardens and shared their bountiful produce with many people throughout Wabash County. Her time spent working and serving her community allowed her to form many friendships she treasured throughout her life.

At the age of 95, she learned to knit hats on round looms. In her last years, she created over 1,000 hats that she donated to the Huntsman Cancer Center and the school children in Cache Valley, Utah. She was an avid reader and continued to read as long as her sight allowed. Her favorites were books on faith, which was a reflection of her deep devotion to her Savior, Jesus Christ.

Her final years were spent living with her daughters and being a part of their families, getting acquainted with many great-grandchildren and great-great grandchildren who lovingly referred to her as Great Grandma Great or "Triple G". She formed a very special bond with her first great-great-grandson, Weston Neilson, who brought her so much joy and laughter.

She is preceded in death by her parents, husband, daughter JoElla, brothers, Gerald, Harold, Eugene, Duane, and sister Mildred Markman. She is survived by her older sister, Marie Hedge, daughters, Georgia and Marcella, 7 grandchildren and 23 great grandchildren and 2 great great grandsons.

The family would like to express their deepest thanks to Leslie, Becki, and rest of the Symbii Homecare and Hospice team, who lovingly and respectfully cared for Aleta for 5 years, as well as to the staff at Cache Valley Assisted Living and Blacksmith Fork Assisted Living.

A Memorial Service will be held Friday, August 21, 2020 at 11:00 a.m. at Short Funeral Home in Mt. Carmel, 527 N Mulberry St. Mt. Carmel, IL. There will be visitation from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service.  Graveside services and inurnment will take place in the spring at Highland Memorial Cemetery, Mount Carmel, Illinois.

Donations in her memory can be made to Parkview Christian Church, Route 1 North, Mt. Carmel, Illinois 62863. 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 Aleta’s family.

Funeral Report-Jo Etta Briggs

Funeral Services were held at 10:00 a.m., Friday, August 14, 2020, at First General Baptist Church for Jo Etta Briggs.  Pastor Gary Underwood conducted the service that included a welcome message, scripture readings, reading of the obituary, funeral message and closing prayer.  Myra Webb served as keyboardist.  Prelude and postlude music included, “Precious Memories”, “Amazing Grace”, “I’ll Fly Away”, “It Is Well With My Soul”, “How Great Thou Art”, and “In The Garden”.  “If Tomorrow Never Comes” by Garth Brooks, “I Can Only Imagine” by Mercy Me and “Well Done” by The Afters, were played during the service along with “What A Day That Will Be” sung by Myra Webb.  Entombment took place at Highland Memorial Cemetery in Mount Carmel.  Pallbearers were Dylan Brown, Dawson Brown, Larry Curt Lang, Bobby Lang, Tim Briggs and Caitlyn Corley.  Honorary Pallbearers were Roger Rosignol, Paul Ankenbrandt, Jamie McCorkle, Pete James, Dean Hillyard, Jeff Kell and Tom McClellan.  Keepes Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of Jo Etta Briggs.

Darrell “Lee” Lofton, 90

Darrell “Lee” Lofton, 90, of Mount Carmel, Illinois, passed away Saturday, August 8, 2020 at home surrounded by the love of his family.  He was born December 11, 1929 on the family farm in rural Gibson County, Indiana, the son of Lee Earl and Mildred Irene (Wolfington) Lofton.  He married Jeanie Crane on June 24, 1998 and together they have celebrated twenty-two years of marriage. 

Lee was employed for many years by Dersch Energies.  Back in the day, he was known around town as “The Furnace Man” and often worked late into the night making repair calls to those in need.  Lee grew a bountiful garden each year.  He generously shared his harvest with family, friends and neighbors.  Lee was a good friend to many.  He had a group of friends who would gather, almost daily, either at his place or one of theirs to swap stories and discuss the world happenings.  Having been raised on the farm, Lee knew how to work hard and learned how to accomplish a variety of tasks.  He was always willing to lend a helping hand when any of his friends or family had a project to do.  Lee enjoyed traveling, most especially the Blue Ridge Parkway.  He and Jeanie enjoyed several extended adventures traveling in their motor home.  Lee had a love for animals, especially the small dogs he owned during his retirement.  He greatly enjoyed taking them for long walks around town each day. One last request of Lee’s would be to vote to re-elect President Trump.  Lee loved his family and will be deeply missed by all who knew him. 

Lee leaves behind his wife, Jeanie; son, Steven Lofton; daughter, Lenita (Cameron) John; fourteen grandchildren; ten great-grandchildren; step-sons, Freddie Crane, Steven Crane, and Eric Crane.

Lee was preceded in death by his parents; sons, Kevin Lofton, Robin Lofton; brother Lyonel Lofton; and sister, Carmon McGee.

In keeping with Lee’s wishes, cremation rites will take place and no formal services will be held.

Memorial contributions may be made in Lee’s memory to the Wabash County Animal Shelter buddies and may 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 Lee’s tribute wall, and leave a note of condolences for the Lofton family, please visit www.keepesfuneralhome.com