Loretta Garrett, 94

Loretta Garrett, 94, of Mt. Carmel, Illinois, passed away Thursday, September 24th,

2020 at Deaconess Hospital Linda White Hospice in Evansville, Indiana, with her children Lisa and Dwayne, and her granddaughter Holly at her side.

She was born September 15, 1926 in Johnson, Indiana, the daughter of Ben and

Laura Parker. She graduated from Owensville High School class of 1944. Moving away from home and finding a job in Indianapolis at 18 years old, Loretta took those first steps as an independent young woman. She married her high school sweetheart, Eugene Garrett on February 3rd, 1945 at Scott Airforce Base in Belleville.

Loretta and Eugene made Mt. Carmel their home in 1950 and raised their children,

Gloria, Dwayne and Lisa in what we all know, is a very special place. In 1956, Gene and Loretta opened Garrett TV. Together they built a business that sustained their family and connected with Mt. Carmel’s residents in a special way - In their homes, in front of the television set. Loretta was a member of the First Christian Church Disciples of Christ since 1950.

She joined the Bank of Mt Carmel in 1969 and spent many happy years serving the community as a teller. Those who knew her looked forward to the warm greeting and that always welcoming smile. The friendships she made with her co-workers were the melt your heart kind which last a lifetime. She understood that true friends are one of God’s many blessings. The difference she made in the lives of others returned to her twofold, filling her life with the warmth of lasting and treasured bonds.

Loretta was preceded death by her parents, brothers, husband Eugene and her daughter Gloria Lovellette.

Loretta is survived by her daughter, Lisa Miller and husband Randy; her son, Dwayne Garrett and wife Deb; son-in-law Steve Lovellette; grandchildren, Holly Diamond, Ryan Lovellette, Lauren Miller, Grant Miller, Danielle Dedrick (Garrett); great grandchildren, Jackson Diamond, Carson Diamond, Isabella Diamond, Harrison Lovellette, Cameron Dedrick, Josie Dedrick and Logan LaFonte (Miller). Nan Loretta shared a boundless love with each and every one of them.

Visitation will be from 11:30 a.m. until 1:00 p.m. Saturday, September 26th at the First Christian

Church Disciples of Christ, 803 N. Market St., Mount Carmel, Illinois. Funeral services will follow at the church at 1:00 p.m. with interment at Owensville Cemetery, Owensville, Indiana.

Memorials may be made to the First Christian Church Disciples of Christ. Envelopes will be available at the church and at Short-Cunningham Funeral Home, P.O. Box 397, Mt. Carmel, Illinois 62863.

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

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

Wade D. Perry, 12

Wade D. Perry, 12, of Mount Carmel, Illinois, passed away on Tuesday, September 22, 2020 at his residence. He was born on June 10, 2008 in Fairfield, Illinois, the son of Dustin Jones and Jessica Perry.

Wade was a seventh-grade student at Mount Carmel Junior High School. He liked being outdoors, fishing, swimming and playing basketball. He loved playing video games and joking around with his family and friends. Wade was baptized at the Lighthouse Church in Patton, IL. He had a big family who loved him deeply and will be dearly missed.

Wade leaves behind his parents; brothers, Tanner (Avery) Jones, Andru Perry, Trenton Jones; paternal grandparents, Don and Brenda Jones; maternal grandparents, David Perry and Janet Byrns; special aunt, Misty Jones; uncles, Scott (Karissa) Perry, John Brown; special cousins, Parker Linson, Reese Linson; and many loved great-aunts, uncles and cousins.

Family and friends are invited to gather for a Visitation from 11:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m., Friday, September 25, 2020 in the Chapel of Keepes Funeral Home. Social distancing practices will be in place and face coverings are recommended.

Graveside Services will be held at 2:30 p.m., Friday, September 25, 2020 at Highland Memorial Cemetery with Brother Bill Reed officiating.

Memorial contributions may be made in Wade’s memory to The Lunch Box and will be accepted 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 Wade’s tribute wall, purchase flowers and leave condolences for the Perry and Jones families, please visit www.keepesfuneralhome.com

FUNERAL REPORT-Barbara A. Harms

Funeral Services were held at 1:00 P.M., Monday, September 21, 2020 in the Chapel of Keepes Funeral Home to honor the life of Barbara A. Harms. Brother Bill Reed conducted the service that included an opening message, fond memories of Barbara’s life, message and closing remarks. Ruby Wood also spoke and shared special memories of Barbara’s faith and her love for her family. Musical selection during the service included “Jealous Of The Angels” by Donna Taggart, and “My Angel” by Kellie Pickler. Barbara’s granddaughter, Hayley sang, “Amazing Grace” and Ruby Wood sang, “He’s In The Midst” accompanied by Debbie Reed on keyboard. During dismissal, “Victory In Jesus” by The Band Steele was played as guests were exiting. Burial took place at Friendsville Cemetery. Pallbearers were Josh Harms, Michael Harms, Nick Johns, Joshua Anderson, Tony Farrar and Mark Johns. Keepes Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of Barbara A. Harms.

Orvell E. Cline, Sr., 71

Orvell E. Cline, Sr., age 71 of St. Francisville, passed away Friday, September 18, 2020 at Good Samaritan Hospital after a brief battle with Pancreatic Cancer. He was born in Mt. Carmel on December 5, 1948 to Dallas and Ollie (Thomas) Cline.

On September 13, 1970, Orvell married Judy Stacey in Dundas, and she survives.

Orvell was a family man through and through. He loved spending time with them and making memories. He also enjoyed motorcycles and old cars.

At the young age of 17, Orvell entered into the Marines and served in the Vietnam War. He was truly a hero as can be seen in the numerous medals he earned for efforts and bravery during the war. He was proudly the recipient of a Purple Heart. Once he returned home, Orvell went into the workforce. He retired from AMAX Coalmine of Keensburg after 25 years.

Surviving family includes: his wife of fifty years- Judy Cline of St. Francisville: two sons- Orvell E. Cline, Jr. and girlfriend Courtney Carter of St. Francisville and Johnny Cline of St. Francisville: one brother-Dallas Cline, Jr. and his wife Fran of Patoka, IN: one sister- Ruth Jackson of Washington, IN” : and one granddaughter- Brieanna Cline of St. Francisville.    

He was preceded in death by his parents, Dallas and Ollie Cline.

A graveside service for Orvell E. Cline, Sr. will be held at 2:30 p.m. on Thursday, September 24, 2020 in Oaklawn Cemetery. Cunningham-Young Funeral Home of Lawrenceville is assisting the family.

Memorial contributions can be made in Orvell’s memory to the Lawrence County Animal Shelter directly (P.O. Box 45 Lawrenceville, IL 62439) or through the funeral home. Online contributions can be sent to the family at www.cunninghamfuneralhhomes.com.

John Douglas Morgan, 73

Mr. John Douglas Morgan, age 73, of Chapel Hill, TN, died Monday, September 7, 2020, in Murfreesboro, TN.  He was born in Princeton, Indiana, and a son of the late John Albert and Hester Jane Shepard Morgan.

John graduated Class of 1965 from Mt. Carmel High School.  He was accepted into the U.S. Naval Academy and attended 1965-1967 when he left due to his eyesight which prevented him from becoming a naval aviator.  He then attended University of Illinois.  John was called back home to Mt. Carmel to help his Dad with the family business, M & S Oil Well Cementing.  In 1999 John and his brother, Jeff, started a plant in Wyoming which did very well for 17 years..   He had many friends and stories from his years of golfing and then his RC Modeling groups and was considered a Master Craftsman in building RC planes from scratch. 

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by an infant son, Jay Douglas Morgan, and a brother, Patric Morgan.

Mr. Morgan is survived by his loving wife of 34 years, Brenda Morgan of Chapel Hill, TN; children, Kirby Morgan of Chapel Hill, TN, Alex Morgan of Evansville, IN; sister, Teri (Dale) Healy of Geff, IL; brother, Jeff Morgan of Mt. Carmel, IL; several nieces and nephews.

The family will have a Memorial Service at a later time.

Oh I have slipped the surly bonds of Earth………….

Richard E. “Dick” Keepes, 90

Richard E. “Dick” Keepes, 90, of Mount Carmel, Illinois, passed away peacefully on Saturday, September 19, 2020 at Oakview Heights Continuous Care and Rehab.  He was born on September 11, 1930 in Wabash County, Illinois, the son of Edward and Mary “Mayme” (Wahler) Keepes.  He married Wilma Boyd and she preceded him in death on January 30, 1986.

Dick faithfully served his Country as a Corporal in the United States Army during the Korean War.  He worked in construction and was a skilled Carpenter.  He was employed by Mount Carmel Public Utility from 1965 to 1991.  Dick loved his family and took great joy in his eight grandchildren.  His favorite saying was “Hey Dad”.  He went swimming every day for twenty years at the YMCA pool.  In his younger years, he was an avid hunter and fisherman.  He also was a voracious reader.  Dick loved spending time at his river camp along with his chocolate lab, Babe.  Dick was an extremely witty man and a fantastic story teller.  He was proud of his family and treasured the time he spent with them.  He was a member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church.  He will be dearly missed by all who knew him.

Dick will be remembered by his daughters, Elizabeth Keepes, Marie (George) Miller, Heaven (Danny) Kautzman, and Heather Kaide; grandchildren, Jimmy Beal, Joey Beal, Alisha Agnew, Andrea (Jason) Hohman, Ashley (Kyle) Thompson, Amanda (Patrick) Tolliver, Tommy Kautzman, Maddie Kautzman; and fourteen great-grandchildren.

In addition to his wife, Wilma Keepes, Dick was preceded in death by his parents; and brother, Raymond “’Bud”’ Keepes; and special friend, Clara Bender. 

Graveside Services will be at 1:00 p.m., Sunday, September 27, 2020 at St. Mary’s Catholic Cemetery with Father Robert Zwilling officiating.  Burial will follow at St. Mary’s Catholic Cemetery with Full Military Honors. 

Memorial contributions may be made in Dick’s memory to St. Mary’s Catholic Church.  Envelopes will be at the graveside 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 Dick’s tribute wall, purchase flowers and leave condolences for the Keepes family, please visit www.keepesfuneralhome.com

Bonita S. (Powers) Lambert, 82

Bonita S. (Powers) Lambert, 82, of Mount Carmel, Illinois, passed away peacefully on Friday, September 18, 2020 at Deaconess Gateway Hospital in Newburgh, Indiana. Arrangements are pending at Keepes Funeral Home. When available the obituary can be viewed and online condolences can be made at www.KeepesFuneralHome.com.

Barbara A. Harms 82

Barbara A. Harms 82, of Mount Carmel, Illinois, passed away on Wednesday, September 16, 2020 at Deaconess Gateway Hospital in Newburgh, Indiana.  She was born on August 15, 1938 in Chicago, Illinois, the daughter of Herschel and Mable (Montgomery) Beasley.  She married Esthol Harms on October 3, 1971 and he preceded her in death on March 17, 2000.

Barbara worked as a waitress in various establishments and as a CNA for many years, caring for nursing home residents.   In her spare time, she enjoyed working on embroidery projects and making lovely quilts.  Barbara liked reading books and playing games.  She loved her family and always enjoyed attending family gatherings.  Barbara attended Pentecostal Faith Assembly Church.  She was deeply loved by her family and friends and will be dearly missed.    

Barbara leaves behind her daughter, Tammy (Doug) Hatchett; sons, David (Wilma) Johns, Mark Johns; grandchildren, Josh Harms, Mindy (Tony) Farrar, Nick Johns; great-grandchildren, Hayley, Katie, Sara, Jacob, Joshua, Michael, Austin, Damion, Logan, Elizabeth; great-great-grandchildren, Alaina, Sophia, Peyton; and several step-grandchildren.

Barbara was preceded in death by her parents, Herschel and Mable Beasley; step-mother, Goldia Beasley; granddaughter, Elizabeth Johns; son-in-law Keith Harms.

Family and friends are invited to gather for a Visitation from 11:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m., Monday, September 21, 2020 in the Chapel of Keepes Funeral Home.  Social distancing practices will be in place.

Funeral Services will be 1:00 p.m., Monday, September 21, 2020, in the Chapel of Keepes Funeral Home with Brother Bill Reed officiating.  Burial will follow at Friendsville Cemetery.

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

FUNERAL REPORT-Ruben L. “Bob” Stuessel

Funeral Services were held at 1:00 p.m., Thursday, September 17, 2020 in the Chapel of Keepes Funeral Home to honor the life of Ruben L. “Bob” Stuessel.  Brother Bill Reed and Pastor Daniel Moore officiated the service.  Pastor Daniel offered opening prayer and read the obituary.  Brother Bill shared fond memories of Bob’s life, a funeral message and closing prayer.  Scripture passages were taken from John 14 and II Corinthians 5:8. Musical selection during the service included, “Amazing Grace”, “Heaven’s Boulevard”, and “Precious Memories”.  During the closing of the service, “Precious Lord, Take My Hand” was played as guests were exiting.  Burial took place at Highland Memorial Cemetery in Mount Carmel, Illinois.  Pallbearers were Ruben Stuessel, Todd Stuessel, Christian Stuessel, Maddix Stuessel, Brett Morgan and Jeremy Osman. Jayden Stuessel served as Honorary Pallbearer.   Keepes Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of Ruben L. “Bob” Stuessel.

Melanie “Sue” Seals, 65

Melanie “Sue” Seals, 65, of Mount Carmel, Illinois, passed away on Monday, September 14, 2020 at Wabash General Hospital surrounded by the love of her family.  She was born May 27, 1955 in Mount Carmel, the daughter of William R. and Lavon (Howell) Phelps.

Sue was a member of the Mount Carmel High School graduating class of 1973.  She was employed for many years by District 348 as a school bus driver.  Sue liked to travel.    She frequently enjoyed the girl trips she took with her cousins.    She loved the beautiful flowers she grew in her yard and always included just one pepper plant.  Sue loved to bake and cook for her family and always looked forward to holiday dinners.   Sue’s greatest love was being a mother.  She will be dearly missed by all who knew her.

Sue leaves behind her son, Jeremy Seals; nieces, Melissa (Bethany) Dardeen, Cindy (Brad) Hughes; nephew, Jeff (Roxanne) Kidd; and many loved cousins.

Sue was preceded in death by her parents; sister, Pamela Smith; one infant brother; brother-in-law, Rusty Smith; and a close friend, John Dee.

In keeping with Sue’s wishes, cremation rites will take place and a Celebration Of Life will be held at a later date.

Keepes Funeral Home is serving the family with the arrangements.  To view Sue’s tribute wall and leave a note of condolences for the Seals family, please visit www.keepesfuneralhome.com

Paul E. Wheeler, 70

Paul E. Wheeler, 70, of Allendale, Illinois, passed away peacefully on Saturday, September 12, 2020 at his residence surrounded by the love of his family. He was born April 30, 1950 in Sumner, IL, the son of George Wheeler and Helen (Lucas) Green.

He married Glee Noland on September 7, 1975 and she survives.

Paul worked in maintenance and construction for many years at several power plants across the United States including Gibson Generating Station. In his spare time he enjoyed fishing and spending time at his river camp where he and Glee, along with the help of their friends, built a cabin and enjoyed many gatherings with family and friends. He enjoyed cooking, baking and frying fish. Paul had a deep love for his family. His daughter, granddaughters and great-granddaughter were his reason for living and they absolutely cherished him. They often said he was the best Papaw there ever was. Paul was also a very important part of many of his nieces, nephews and great-nieces and nephews lives. To some of them he was like a second dad and often said, “Uncle Paul is the best”. Paul made many friends everywhere. His river buddies were an important part of who he was. Paul dearly loved his in-law family as well. They referred to him as “Pauly” and always knew they could count on him for anything. Paul’s love and friendship was cherished by many and he will be dearly missed.

Paul will be remembered by his loving wife of forty-five years, Glee; daughter, Melissa Thompson; grandchildren, Chloey Wheeler, Taylor Cates, Tiahanna Berry; great-granddaughter, Ayanna Cates; brother, Jerry Wheeler, sisters, Ruby Wiles, Beverly Wheeler and many loved nieces and nephews.

Paul was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Daryl, George, Jim, Donnie and Kenny Wheeler; sister, Carolyn Wheeler.

In Keeping with Paul’s wishes, cremation rites will take place and a Memorial Service will take place at a later date.

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

Ruben L. “Bob” Stuessel, 72

Ruben L. “Bob” Stuessel, 72, of Mount Carmel, Illinois, passed away peacefully on Friday, September 11, 2020 at his residence surrounded by the love of his family.  He was born on October 10, 1947 in Fort Riley, Kansas, the son of Charles E. and Bernice (Spond) Stuessel.  Bob married Beverly Harms on August 28, 1971 and they have enjoyed forty-nine years of marriage centered around their family. 

Bob will be remembered as a loving husband, father, grandfather and great grandfather.  He enjoyed his work as a dispatcher for twenty-six years with the Mount Carmel Police Department.  Bob also worked as a barber for twenty-five years where he made many friendships.  He volunteered at Mission of Hope and Catholic Social Services.  Bob was a member of Pentecostal Faith Assembly and loved helping at church events.  He loved being in the kitchen cooking for family, especially during the holidays.  Bob was very artistic, loved painting ceramics with his mother and also enjoyed embroidering quilting squares. He will be missed by his family and all who knew him.

Bob will be remembered by his loving wife, Beverly Stuessel; son, Ruben Stuessel and wife, Hollie of Mount Carmel; grandchildren, Alicia (Brett) Morgan, Christian Stuessel, Jayden Stuessel, Maddix Stuessel, Cole Sardeson and Shelby Sardeson; one great granddaughter, Freya Morgan; siblings, Ron (Patty) Stuessel, Gary (Jeanie) Stuessel, and Tonya Mollenhauer; many loved cousins, nieces and nephews.

Bob was preceded in death by his parents; son, Charlie J. Stuessel; brother, Ed Stuessel; and sister, Laverne Sales.

Family and friends are invited to gather for a Visitation from 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m., Thursday, September 17, 2020, in the Chapel of Keepes Funeral Home.  Social distancing practices will be in place.

Funeral Services will be at 1:00 p.m., Thursday, September 17, 2020, in the Chapel of Keepes Funeral Home with Brother Bill Reed and Pastor Daniel Moore officiating.  Burial will follow at Highland Memorial Cemetery in Mount Carmel.

Memorial contributions may be made in Bob’s memory to Residential Hospice.  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 Bob’s tribute wall, purchase flowers and leave condolences for the Stuessel family, please visit www.keepesfuneralhome.com

Kenneth Dale Wheeler, 69

Kenneth Dale Wheeler, 69, of Princeton, Indiana, passed away on Thursday, September 10, 2020 at Linda E. White Hospice House in Evansville, Indiana surrounded by the love of his family. He was born on August 10, 1951 in Wabash County, Illinois the son of George and Helen (Lucus) Wheeler.

Kenny was very proud of his family and loved the time he spent with them. He loved being outdoors and some of his best memories are of fishing on the Wabash River with family and friends. Kenny was very proud of his work as a welder where he spent many years at the powerplant. He will be missed by his family and all who knew him.

Kenny will be remembered by his three sons, Kenny Wheeler II of Mount Carmel, Nick (Susan) Wheeler of Sumner, Dakota Wheeler of Mount Carmel; two daughters, Emily (Joel) Wolfenbarger of Princeton, IN and Amy Wheeler of Benton, IL; grandchildren, Jordan Prosise, Sydney Phillips, Trace, Mia and Zoey Varnado, Haley Terpening, Jacob Wheeler, Tasia Knowles, William Wheeler, Alissa Wheeler, Samuel Wheeler, Emalynn, Anabella, Lucus and Liam Wheeler; four great grandchildren; two brothers, Paul (Glee) Wheeler and Jerry Wheeler; two sisters, Beverly Wheeler and Ruby Wiles; many loved cousins, nieces and nephews.

Kenny was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Daryl, George, Donnie and Jim Wheeler; sister, Carolyn Wheeler.

In keeping with Kenny’s wishes, cremation will take place and a Memorial Service will be held at a later date.

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

Jimmy D. “James” Luthe, 60

Jimmy D. “James” Luthe, 60, of Mount Carmel, Illinois, passed away on Saturday, September 5, 2020 at his residence. He was born on May 12, 1960 in Fairfield, Illinois, the son of Darrell and Sarah Marie (Vickers) Luthe.

James loved being outdoors and in his free time could often be found fishing. He was a big Star Trek fan. James also loved animals especially his cats. He was a dedicated and hard worker where he was employed at Superior Maintenance. James was baptized at Heartland Worship Center in Mount Carmel. He will be missed by his family and all who knew him.

James will be remembered by his son, James (Sydney) Luthe of Mount Carmel; three grandchildren, Sara, Emerald and Corvin Luthe. James was preceded in death by his parents.

In keeping with James wishes, cremation will take place and no formal services will be held at this time.

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

Christy Jean Rosignol, 50

Christy Jean Rosignol, 50, of Norris City, Illinois, passed away Sunday, September 6, 2020, at Harrisburg Medical Center.

She was born July 24, 1970, the daughter of Clyde and Maxine (Spond) Rosignol in Mt. Carmel, Illinois.  Christy attended Brownsville School, graduating in 1991.  She lived at the Spencer House in Norris City.

Christy was a member of the First General Baptist Church in Mt. Carmel—she loved going to church.  She was a happy girl, loved to hug and had a pretty smile.  Christy enjoyed rocking in her rocking chair as she listened to music.  It was a delight to her when her father would play his guitar. 

Left to cherish Christy’s memory are her parents; siblings, Roger (Karen) Rosignol and Michelle (Scott) Brooks; nieces and nephews, Joshua (Tara) Wagner, Haley (Chris) Fryer, Abigail Rosignol and Timothy Rosignol; great-nieces and nephews, Mersadies Wagner and Trenton Wagner; and several cousins.

Christy was preceded in death by her grandparents Clyde and Mary Rosignol and Donivan and Joy Spond.

Friends and family may attend a visitation Thursday, September 10, 2020, from 10 a.m. until 12:00 noon in the chapel of Short Funeral Home, 527 N. Mulberry Street, Mt. Carmel, Illinois (please enter through the garage) with a graveside service following at Highland Memorial Cemetery, 1827 College Drive, Mt. Carmel, Illinois, immediately after visitation.

Memorials may be made to Tuberous Sclerosis Alliance at give.tsalliance.org or Gideons International.  Envelopes will be available through the funeral home or can be made on Short’s website.

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

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

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.