HELEN JUNE KNAPP, 89

On February 5, 2021, while at home, I passed through the gates where my heavenly Father was there to greet me.

I was welcomed into this world 89 years ago on June 17, 1931, by my parents, Earl & Ella (McCormack) Belt.

I had 6 amazing siblings. LeRoy “Bud” Belt, Mary (Belt) Sullivan, Robert “Bob” Belt, William “Bill” Belt, Elsie (Belt) Coleman, and a baby brother. All which are now deceased.

On September 23, 1950, I married the love of my life, Billy J. Knapp. After 50 years of marriage, he passed away on April 18, 2001.

We had 4 children. My children are Earl (Anita) Knapp, Susan (Rudy Calvin) Harper, Gene (Cathy) Knapp and Dennis (Gwynna) Knapp. All from Mt. Carmel. Sadly, Gene and Dennis passed before me.

Being blessed with 10 grandchildren, 28 great grandchildren and 3 great-great grandchildren. My grandchildren are Wayne (Andrea) Harper, Billie (Scott) Mayberry, Sherri Knapp, Jeremiah Knapp, John (Julie) Harper, Nick (Nadia) Knapp, Brian (Michael) Knapp, Ashley (Jeff) Thombleson, Amanda (John) Cox, Tina Knapp. Sherri and Tina Knapp were taken away from us way too early in life.

During my short time living, I had many jobs. Being a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, great grandmother, and great-great grandmother was by far my favorite. I worked at the hospital (Wabash General Hospital) for many years and loved what I did. While working there, I gained many friends. I even gained one which I would call my sister, Vereal Sutton. We had lots of good times together.

 My parents, siblings, husband, 2 children and 2 grandchildren preceded me in death.

 On Tuesday, February 9, 2021 from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. there will be a visitation for family and friends, enter the building through the garage. My funeral service will be at 1:00 p.m. in the Chapel of Short Funeral Home, 527 N. Mulberry St. Mt Carmel, IL 62863. My body will be buried in Highland Memorial Cemetery next to my husband.

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

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

Rose Marie (Kieffer) Lewis, 64,

Rose Marie (Kieffer) Lewis, 64, of Mount Carmel, Illinois, passed away Thursday, February 4, 2021 at Citrus Memorial Hospital in Inverness, Florida, surrounded by the love of her family. She was born on March 17, 1956 in Mount Carmel, the seventh of eight children born to Eugene C. and Viola (Peter) Kieffer. Rose met the love of her life, Gary Lewis, and the two of them secretly married in Henderson Kentucky on August 29, 1995. For more than twenty-five years, they have loved and cherished not only each other, but also their beautiful blended family.

At a very young age, Rose affectionately became known as “Rosie” to her family and childhood friends. She attended St. Mary’s Catholic School, was a member of the 1974 graduating class of Mount Carmel High School and a member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church. Rose was employed many years at First Bank from which she retired April 30, 2013. Everyone who knew Rose loved her. She always had a hug and a smile to share and also a way of letting everyone know she truly cared about them. Rose liked to have fun and her contagious laugh will never be forgotten. In recent years, she and Gary spent the winter months at their home in Florida, enjoying outdoor activities, sightseeing and visiting with friends and family. Spending time with her children and grandchildren

was her greatest treasure of all. She will be dearly missed by everyone who knew her.

Rose leaves behind her loving husband, Gary; children, Gabriel Williams and wife Kristin, Jonathon Williams and wife Brandi, Tracie Arthur, and Gary Lewis, Jr.; grandchildren, Julian Williams, Blake Williams, Alexander Williams, Taylor Williams, Tristan Williams, Tatum Leader, Alexis Fenhaus, Bentley Williams, Harleigh Williams, Hunter Lewis, Halie Deputy and Tyler Deputy; siblings, Donald Kieffer, James Kieffer and wife Marilyn, Charles Kieffer and wife Mary Ruth, Daniel Kieffer and wife Kathy, Linda Keepes and husband Phil, Jeanne Condol and husband Willy; sisters-in-law, Sandra Lewis, Sherry Schmidt and husband Robert, and Patty Ewing; brother in law, Larry Lewis; many loved nieces, nephews and cousins.

Rose was preceded in death by her parents; sister, Patricia Kieffer; father and mother-in-law, Willard Russell and Helen Lewis; sister-in-law, Carol Kieffer; and brother-in-law, Willard Lewis.

To honor Rose’s wishes and considering the current pandemic situation, no formal services will be held at this time. When safe to gather together, a Celebration to honor Rose’s life will be held with entombment to follow at Highland Memorial Cemetery in Mount Carmel, Illinois.

Memorial contributions may be made in Rose’s memory to Saint Mary’s Catholic School. Contributions may be mailed in care of 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 and leave condolences for the Lewis family, please visit www.keepesfuneralhome.com

Donald Max Schuler, 86

Donald Max Schuler, 86, of Mt. Carmel, passed away Wednesday, February 3, 2021, at his residence surrounded by the love of his family.

He was born November 26, 1934, in Friendsville, Illinois, the son of Glenn and Wanda (Guisewite) Schuler.  Don graduated from Mt. Carmel High School and received a Bachelor of Science degree from Eastern Illinois University.  He also served in the Army Reserves.  On October 25, 1958, Don married Maralyn Rae Tice at the Keensburg Christian Church.

Don was a member of Parkview Christian Church and the Illinois Oil and Gas Association.  He was owner of Tri-Kote Inc. and Miller Testing Service for 55 years.  In his younger years Don was an avid hunter.  He enjoyed playing cards and being outdoors—especially mowing grass!  After retirement, he and Maralyn spent winters in Florida.  Don especially loved being with his grandchildren. 

Left to cherish Don’s memory are his wife of 62 years, Maralyn; children Lori (Ed) Phillips, Tim (Sonya) Schuler, and Sara Hargrave all of Mt. Carmel; grandchildren Clint Phillips, Shelby Kennard, Colton Schuler and Chase Schuler.

Don was preceded in death by his parents and son-in-law Rich Hargrave.

Family and friends are invited to a visitation Saturday, February 6, 2021, from 11:00 until 12:00 noon at Short-Cunningham Funeral Home, 527 N. Mulberry Street, Mt. Carmel, Illinois.  COVID-19 guidelines will be in place.  There will be a private family service and burial.

Memorials may be made to the MCHS Band or Parkview Christian Church.  Envelopes will be available at the funeral home or may be mailed to the funeral home at P.O. Box 397, Mt. Carmel, Illinois 62863.

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

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

Steven Roy “Steve” McCabe, 69

Steven Roy “Steve” McCabe, 69, of Keensburg, IL, passed away on Wednesday, February 3, 2021 at Ferrell Hospital in Eldorado, IL. He had been a resident of Wabash Christian Village in Carmi, Illinois for the past eight years. Steve was born on January 30, 1952 in St. Louis, Missouri, the son of Roy Lane and Marian Lorraine (Queen) McCabe. 

After moving to Quincy, Illinois with his family, he went on to graduate from Quincy Senior High School and continued his education to earn his Bachelors degree in History from Quincy College.  After moving to and living in Arizona for many years, he moved to the Southern Illinois area.  He was an avid sports fan and rooted for the St. Louis Cardinals, the Phoenix Suns, and the Arizona Cardinals.  He loved music and followed many groups, his favorite’s being the Beatles, Eric Clapton, CCR and Jimi Hendrix.  Steve also loved to travel to San Diego and Las Vegas with his family and friends and had many good times doing so. 

Steve worked for years in retail management and showed the same hard working and persevering attitude that he did throughout the entirety of his life.  Steve had an incredible sense of humor and was an example to all who knew him teaching everyone he met to focus on the positive things in life.

Steve loved to collect sports and western memorabilia.  He especially liked Roy Rogers and the Lone Ranger and enjoyed watching classic movies, Gold Rush, Yellowstone, The Walking Dead and The Curse of Oak Island.  Steve enjoyed talking and spending time with his family and dearly loved his dogs, Andy, Charlie and the family dog, Scarlett.  If the family could imagine him and his last words, it would be, “Happy Trails ~ God Bless ~ Love Ya Guys”.

Steve will be remembered by his two sisters, Elizabeth “Libby” (Larry “Chris”) Cross and Marian “Mimi” (Jim) Tysseling; two nieces, Jessica “Lori” (Michael) Bertolozzi and Julia Lynn (Jerry) Wheeler; one nephew, Jason “Larry” Cross; one great nephew, Jacob “Jake” (Lauren) Cross; one great niece, Jennifer (Zach Neikirk) Wheeler; one great great niece, River Elizabeth Cross; close friends and family; many nurses, caregivers and friends at Wabash Christian Village in Carmi, IL.

Steve was preceded in death by his parents; grandmother, Jessie (Williams) Queen; and his uncle, Berlin O. Queen.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to the residents and staff for their compassionate care shown to Steve during his stay there.

A family Memorial Service will be held at a later date.

Memorial contributions may be made in Steve’s memory to Wabash County Animal Shelter Buddies, the Muscular Dystrophy Association or to the AKC Canine Health Foundation.  Memorial Contributions 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 Steve’s tribute wall, purchase flowers and leave condolences for the McCabe family, please visit www.keepesfuneralhome.com.

Patricia L. Brock, 81

Patricia L. Brock, 81, of Carmi, Illinois (formerly of Albion) passed away Tuesday, February 2, 2021, at Wabash Christian Village in Carmi surrounded by the love of her family.

Pat was born July 22, 1939, the only child of Frank and Janelle (Durham) Porterfield in Madisonville, Kentucky. She graduated from high school and then college with a degree as a register nurse. On July 7, 1956, Pat married Alvin “Bud” Lee Brock and they enjoyed 60 years of marriage until his death in 2017.

Left to cherish her memory is her children, Andrew and his wife Teresa Brock, James and his wife Myra Brock, and John and his wife Hillari Brock; grandchildren, Whitney Lynn Brock, Cheyenne D. Brock, Ashton E. Brock, Jordon Brock, Boe Cantrell and Dexter Cantrell; greatgrandchildren, Rylan, Mattingly, Hayley, Kyle, Chloe and Logan.

Pat was preceded in death by her parents and husband.

Graveside Service and Burial will be at a later date.

Memorials may be mailed to Albion Library, 6 N 4th St, Albion, IL 62806 or Short Funeral Home, P.O. Box 397 Mt. Carmel, IL 62863.

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

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

Lillie Pearl Parr, 88

Lillie Pearl Parr, 88, of Mt. Carmel, Illinois, passed away Sunday, January 31, 2021, at Oakview Heights Nursing and Rehabilitation.

She was born May 13, 1932, in Union County, Kentucky, the daughter of Leonard and Mary “Mollie” (Yates) Odom.  Pearl graduated high school.  She was married to Clarence “Buck” Parr for 33 years.

Pearl worked as an inspector for Potter and Brumfield for 42 years. She was a lifetime member of the VFW Ladies Auxiliary. Pearl enjoyed indoor and outdoor flower gardening and taking rides with her Godson, Gene, especially down river road.  She was a special mother, aunt and friend.

Left to cherish Pearl’s memory are her Godson Gene (Lisa) Brewer, nieces May (Kenny) Brown and Velda, nephew Raymond Odom; several other nieces and nephews; and special friend Peggy Wright.

Pearl was preceded in death by her parents; husband; son Lenard “Lenny” Parr; siblings George Henry, Paul Raz, James Houston, Quentin Roosevelt, Walter Robert, Herman Parker, Joseph Leonard and Flora Lee; special friends Steve Earley, and, Jack who was like a son to her.

A graveside service for friends and family will be held Wednesday, February 3, 2021 at 2:00 p.m. at South Bethel Cemetery in Bellmont, Illinois.  Social distancing practices will be in place including masks.     

Memorials may be made to the VFW Ladies Auxiliary.  Envelopes will be available at Short Funeral Home, 527 N. Mulberry Street, Mt. Carmel, Illinois.

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

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

Barbara Joan Hagerty, 89

Barbara Joan Hagerty, 89, of Mt. Carmel, Illinois, passed away Sunday, January 31, 2021, at Oakview Heights surrounded by the love of her family.

She was born October 7, 1931, in Vincennes, Indiana, the daughter of Roy Bernard and Mary Eleanor (Jones) Potts.  Barbara was a graduate of Mt. Carmel High School.  On July 19, 1951, she married John Robert Hagerty at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Mt. Carmel, Illinois.  They enjoyed 55 years of marriage until his death in 2006.

Barbara was a member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church and was indeed a lady of the Lord.  She worked 38 years as a clerical worker at Snap-On Tools and Mt. Carmel Public Utility.  Barbara helped anyone that was in need.  She loved spending time with her family, especially her grandchildren.

Left to cherish Barbara’s memory is her son Patrick; daughter-in-law Julie Hagerty; and grandchildren Megan, Molly, Andrew and Annie.

Barbara was preceded in death by her parents, husband, and sons Timothy Joseph and Robert Michael Hagerty.

Friends and relatives are invited to a visitation on Friday, February 5, 2021, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, 125 W. 5th Street, Mt. Carmel, Illinois, from 10:00 until 11:00 a.m. A Funeral Mass will begin at 11:00 a.m.  Burial will be in St. Mary’s Catholic Cemetery.  COVID-19 guidelines will be followed, and masks are recommended.

Memorials may be made to St. Mary’s Catholic School.  Envelopes will be available at the church and Short Funeral Home.

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

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

Laura Alice Shine, 64

Laura Alice Shine, 64, of Evansville, Indiana, (formerly of Mt. Carmel) passed away Monday, February 1, 2021, at Wabash General Hospital.

She was born April 4, 1956, in Mt. Carmel, Illinois, the daughter of Edward Mack and Mary (Walker) Shine.  Laura graduated from Mt. Carmel High School in the class of 1974.  She went on to college and received an associate degree in nursing, LPN.

Laura was born and raised in Mt. Carmel but lived most of her adult life in Evansville.  She was a retired nursing LPN.  Laura loved animals and spending time with her family and friends. 

Left to cherish her memory are a sister-in-law Melinda Shine; half brother Daniel Shine; and several nieces and nephews.

Laura was preceded in death by her parents and brother Mike.

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

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

Meier Lee Seibert, 90

Meier Lee Seibert, 90, of Mt. Carmel, Illinois, passed away Sunday, January 31, 2021, at Deaconess Midtown Hospital in Evansville, Indiana, surrounded by the love of his family.

He was born August 29, 1930, the eighth child of Samuel N. and Anna (Meier) Seibert in Mt. Carmel, Illinois.  He worked for Kieffer Brothers as an accountant/bookkeeper for many years.  On August 30, 1982, Meier married Eloise Cruse in Mt. Carmel.  Eloise and Meier cherished 38 years of marriage.

Meier enjoyed playing and watching golf, bowling and playing “The Dumb Game” at cards.  He and Eloise cruised to Alaska and Hawaii and did extensive traveling in his earlier years.  Meier’s greatest love was being with Eloise and their families.  The grandchildren referred to Meier as “Papaw” and “Pop.”

Left to cherish Meier’s memory are his wife of 38 years, Eloise; children, John (Kim) Seibert of Spring Hill, Tennessee, Loretta Talley of Sanford, Florida, Dan Seibert of West Salem, Illinois, Jane (Chris) Price of Phoenix City, Alabama, Tom Seibert of Winter Park, Florida, Beth Seibert of Sanford, Florida, Bonnie Glover of Jacksonville, Illinois and Karen (Rian) Waterbury of Mt. Carmel, Illinois; seventeen grandchildren; twenty-two greatgrandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.

Meier was preceded in death by his parents; siblings Mary Harrell, Mildred Swope, Mabel Hollis, Sam Jr., Arna, Harry and Gilbert “Pete” Seibert.

Family and friends are invited to a visitation on Friday, February 5, 2021, from 12:00 noon until 1:00 p.m. in the chapel of Short Funeral Home, 527 N. Mulberry Street, Mt. Carmel, Illinois.  COVID-19 practices will be in force.  There will be a private family burial at Highland Memorial Cemetery.   

Memorials may be made to the Wabash County Shelter Buddies, 11336 N. 1500 Blvd., Mt. Carmel, Illinois 62863 or can be made at Short Funeral Home.

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

Betty Jane Meier, 88

Betty Jane Meier, 88, of Princeton, Indiana, formerly of Mt. Carmel, Illinois passed away Friday, January 29, 2021 at River Oaks Health Center in Princeton, Indiana.

Betty was born July 6, 1932 in Orio, Illinois, the daughter of Ray and Doris (Litherland) Gher. She married Joseph “Joe” Meier on October 30, 1949 in Mt. Carmel. He preceded her in death May 14, 2011.

She was a member of DaySpring Community Church in Owensville, IN. She worked for over 20 years as a Registered Nurse at Wabash General Hospital.

Those remaining to share in her memory include four children, Dana (Barbara) Meier of Fairland IN, Joe Ray (Cathy) Meier of Princeton IN, Danny Mark (Donna) Meier of Allendale IL, Lisa Meier (special friend Kenneth Osman of Mt. Carmel IL; eleven grandchildren, Vicki Stephens, Andrew Meier, Gretchen Moody, Marshall Keneipp, Michael Keneipp, Stephanie Keneipp, Clint Meier, Sarah Hawes, Brandon Meier, Andrea Meier, Danielle Meier; twenty-seven great grandchildren and two on the way.

Betty loved her family, her grandchildren and great grandchildren. She was devoted in her faith, loved nature. Each year she looked forward to the Orio Chowder where she could visit with family and friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Joe, of 61 years; son Greg Meier and brother Danny Gher.

There will be a Graveside Service for Betty on Monday, February 1, 2021 at 1:00p.m. at Wabash Presbyterian Cemetery, Orio Illinois. Social distancing practices will be in place. Casual dress and wearing of masks is encouraged by the family.

Memorials for her can be made to Wabash Presbyterian Church Chowder Fund. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home and the service.

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

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

Hubert “Herb” Harris, 86

Hubert “Herb” Harris, 86, of Fairfield, died at 10:30pm on Monday, January 25, 2021, at the Linda E. White Hospice House in Evansville, IN. Herb had worked in the insurance business for 62 years and had been the owner of Harris Insurance Agency in Fairfield, from 1984 until his retirement in 2019.  He was a member of the Fairfield First Baptist Church.

Herb was born on October 1, 1934, in Oilton, OK, to Leo and Opal (Wardlow) Harris. On December 12, 1953, he married Shirley (Fulkerson) Harris, who preceded him in death on December 6, 2020.

Survivors include one son Mike (Sharon) Harris of Mt. Carmel, IL, one daughter Teresa (Jeff) Angle of Fairfield, four grandchildren Jordan Angle, Laura (Steven Thomas) Harris, Lindsey (Brian) Kingery, and Kristen (James) Sullivan, five great grandchildren Braden Kingery, Parker Kingery, Kinley Harris, Beckham Harris, and Everett Sullivan, one sister Sondra (Bruce) Currie of McLeansboro, IL, one sister-in-law Ruth Foister of Carmi, IL, along with several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife Shirley, and one brother Harold Harris.

Graveside services for the family and close friends of Herb Harris will be at 2pm on Friday, January 29th at Maple Hill Cemetery in Fairfield. Everyone is asked to follow state guidelines on wearing masks and social distancing. Memorial donations can be made to the Wayne County Humane Society and will be accepted at the graveside or at the Johnson and Vaughn Funeral Home, which is in charge of arrangements. Condolences can be made to the family at www.facebook.com/johnsonvaughnfuneralhome.  

Helen Irene Kieffer, 98,

Helen Irene Kieffer, 98, of Mount Carmel, Illinois, passed away on Tuesday, January 19, 2021 at Wabash General Hospital.  She was born on September 22, 1922 in Lawrenceville, Illinois, the daughter of Rufine and Mary (Forwe) Smith.  She married Richard Owen Kieffer on February 14, 1953 and he preceded her in death.   

As a young girl, during WWII, Helen worked at the Chrysler factory.  She then was a telephone operator with GTE in Mount Carmel before moving onto the Thordarson Meissner factory.  Helen also was a devoted farm wife and mother of three who enjoyed gardening, tending to the rose bushes and her beautiful African violets.  Helen was a loving wife, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother.  She was a member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church and will be dearly missed by her family and friends.

Helen leaves behind her sons, Richard David Kieffer and wife Connie, Dennis Kieffer and wife Cyndie; daughter, Dorothy Jean Woodsmall; five grandchildren, Nathan, Mathew, Jennifer, Jacquelyn and Eva; three great-grandchildren, Cale, Jacob and Emily; sisters, Agnes Nedeff, Marjory Weber; several nieces, nephews and cousins.

Helen was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Richard Kieffer; and brother, George Smith.

Family and friends are invited to gather for a Visitation from 11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m., Saturday, January 23, 2021 at St. Mary’s Catholic Church.  Social distancing practices will be in place.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 12:00 p.m., Saturday, January 23, 2021 at St. Mary’s Catholic Church with Father Robert Zwilling officiating.  Burial will follow at St. Mary’s Catholic Cemetery where Helen will be laid to rest beside her beloved husband.

Memorial contributions may be made in Helen’s memory to St. Mary’s School. 

Envelopes will be available at the Church or can be mailed in care of Keepes Funeral Home, 1500 North Cherry Street, Mount Carmel, IL 62863.

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

Linda Sue Wirth, 79

Linda Sue Wirth, 79, of Mount Carmel, Illinois, passed away on Thursday, January 21, 2021 at home surrounded by her loving family.  She was born on March 11,1941, in Mount Carmel, the daughter of Lenus and Jessie (Dill) Tatro.  In 1964 she married Paul Wirth and together they have enjoyed fifty-six years of marriage.

Linda spent her life as a homemaker.  She was a loving wife, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother.  She loved her family dearly and they treasured her also.  She will be greatly missed by her family and friends.

Linda leaves behind her beloved husband, Paul; son Fred Pearson; granddaughter, Rachel Pearson and boyfriend Justin Younker; grandson Jacob Wirth and girlfriend Kassie; great-granddaughter Brooklyn Wirth; sister, Judy Banks and husband David; many loved nieces, nephews and cousins.

Linda was preceded in death by her parents; son, Paul “Worm” Wirth Jr.

 The family will gather for a Private Graveside Service at Highland Memorial Cemetery.

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

Frank E. Smith, 74

Frank E. Smith, 74, of Mount Carmel, Illinois, passed away Monday, January 18, 2021 at Deaconess Gateway Hospital in Newburgh, Indiana, surrounded by the love of his family.  He was born on December 20, 1946 in Princeton, Indiana, the son of Lawrence and Alma (Berberich) Smith.  He married Pam Holcomb on June 6, 1981 and she survives. 

Frank greatly enjoyed the outdoors.  In his spare time, he loved fox hunting and was a member of the Osmon Fox Hunters Association.  In his younger days he also enjoyed spending time fishing.  He worked as a carpenter in the construction industry and was a member of the Carpenters Local # 546.  Frank was also a member of the Fraternal Order of Eagles the Knights of Columbus and St. Mary’s Catholic Church.  He was a loving husband, father, grandfather and great grand-father who will be dearly missed by his family and friends.

Frank leaves behind his beloved wife of thirty-nine years, Pam; sons, Brian (Ashley Tennes) Smith, Chad (Hannah) Smith; daughters, Jacqueline “Jackie” (David) Seaton, Tracy Smith; eleven grandchildren, Courtney (Seante) Loving Packer, Lance ( Amber) Seaton, Logan (Emily) Seaton, Lauren Smith, Laney Smith, Nicholas Smith, Lawrence Smith, Alma Smith, Jacob Smith, Kyleigh Smith and Kayden Smith; eight great-grandchildren; brother, Leo (Margie) Smith; sister, Diane Bradley; many loved nieces, nephews; special hunting buddies, Kyle Thompson and Robert Smith.

Frank was preceded in death by his parents; mother and father-in-law, Ronald and Lois Holcomb; brother-in-law, Rocky Bradley.

The family and their closest friends will gather for a Visitation and Funeral Service in the Chapel of Keepes Funeral Home.  Following the service, Frank will be laid to rest at St. Mary’s Catholic Cemetery.

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

Donald Lee Chauncey Price, 90

Donald Lee Chauncey Price, 90, of Mount Carmel, Illinois, passed away Saturday, January 16, 2021 at Deaconess Gateway Hospital in Newburgh, Indiana, surrounded by the love of his family.  He was born on November 29, 1930 in Napa, Napa County California, the son of Oscar Wilson Price and Emma Madeline (Butler) Price.  He married Jean Winingear in Mount Carmel and she survives. 

In his youth, Don attended schools in California until he joined the United States Army in 1946 where he faithfully served his country for five years.  Don served during the Occupation of Japan, was a member of the 11th Airborne Division and the 511th Parachute Infantry Regiment.  He ended his service in 1951 as a 2nd Echelon Mechanic.

Don had a fifty-three-year career serving many positions in the City of Mount Carmel and Wabash County municipalities.  He began as a Patrolman in 1955 for the Mount Carmel Police Department, serving for ten years and then was promoted to Chief of Police.  In 1975 Don took the position of City-County Detective before moving on to City Inspector in 1981 and then retiring in 2008.  Fifteen of those years, Don also served as a Wabash County Deputy Sheriff.

In his spare time, Don enjoyed being a part-time Instructor in the Illinois Community College district 329.  He was a certified SCUBA diver, an Amateur Baseball Umpire and a High School Football Official.  He liked to play golf, archery and bow-hunting, shooting and woodworking.  He was a life member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post #4276 and the American Legion, Wabash Post #423.  Don was a loving husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather.  He was a Born-Again Christian and attended Community Church of God.  He will be dearly missed by his family and friends.

Don leaves behind his loving wife, Jean; children, Tina Kay (Bill) Winternheimer, Donald L. Price Jr., Tani Dru (Gary) Bemont, David D. Price; grandchildren, Jennifer (Mark) Greathouse, Julie Dial, Bret Winternheimer, Brittany Winternheimer, Jerrica (John) Riyazi, Olivia Bemont; great-grandchildren, Alexis and Devon Hardy, River Greathouse and Isabella Price.

Don was preceded in death by his parents; and grandson, Jacob Price.

A private family Visitation and Funeral will be held Wednesday, January 20, 2021 in the Chapel of Keepes Funeral Home.  Burial will follow at Rose Hill Cemetery with Full Military Honors. 

Memorial contributions may be made in Don’s memory to Community Church of God and can be mailed in care of Keepes Funeral Home, 1500 North Cherry Street, Mount Carmel, IL 62863.

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

Randall L. “Weed” Garwood, 61

Randall L. “Weed” Garwood, 61, of Grayville, Illinois, passed away on Wednesday, January 13, 2021 at Deaconess Hospital in Evansville, Indiana with his loving family by his side.  He was born on October 10, 1959 in Geneseo, Illinois, the son of Sherman and Rita (Pearson) Garwood.  Randy graduated from Crossville High School Class of 1977.

Randy was a loving father to his daughter, Erin and treasured the bond with his grandson.  He loved being outdoors, where he spent time hunting and fishing. At an early age, Randy lovingly earned the nickname “Weed” which stuck with him throughout his life.  He was very involved in the Grayville Moose and loved participating in their many activities. Randy was a hard worker where he spent his lifetime as a logger.  He will be missed by his family and all who knew him.

Randy will be remembered by his daughter, Erin (Chris) Kieffer of Mount Carmel; grandson, Aiden Garwood; brothers, Steve (Rayna) Garwood of Mount Carmel, and Darrell Garwood of Crossville, IL; girlfriend, Shawna Irvine; two nieces, Jamie Compton and Katelin Neely; bonus children, Shad Collins, Shawn (Cindy) Collins, and Shanan (Jamin) Oldendorf; bonus grandchildren, Haley Collins, Noah Collins, Ethan Collins and Taylor Oldendorf.  Randy was preceded in death by his parents.

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

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

Bonnie B. Talley, 85

Bonnie B. Talley, 85, of Mount Carmel, Illinois, passed away on Wednesday, January 13, 2021 at Wabash General Hospital surrounded by her loving family. She was born on March 12, 1935 in Wabash County, Illinois, the daughter of George Robert and Velma Ruth (Kaiser) Helton. Bonnie was a 1952 graduate of Mount Carmel High School. She married Norman Talley on October 19, 1952 and he preceded her in death on June 15, 2017, after sixty-four years of marriage.

Bonnie worked hard her whole life. She had worked as a retail clerk at the A & P Grocery Store and a local fabric shop which she also owned. She then took a position at Security Bank and Trust where she retired as the head teller. She was a very talented seamstress and enjoyed making dresses for her daughters and granddaughters. Bonnie often sewed beautiful gowns for proms, special occasions and most especially, her daughters were extremely proud to wear the gowns their mother made for their wedding day. Bonnie was a devoted wife, mother and granny. Some of her favorite memories came from whole family vacations they took to the Smokey Mountains, camping trips and family get-togethers at home. Bonnie’s granddaughters treasure the special recipes she shared with them and they describe her as the best at making fried chicken, strawberry pie, waffles, cheese popcorn, noodles and cherry delight. She was easy going, sharp minded, an avid reader and had a great sense of humor. She was known for passing out two-dollar bills on special occasions and she enjoyed teaching her great-grandchildren how to count change. Bonnie had the best smile, the kindest heart, never met a stranger and cared deeply for her whole family. She was a member of Parkview Christian Church and she will be dearly missed by all who knew her.

Bonnie leaves behind her daughter; Debbie Winkler and husband Steve of Port Wentworth, Georgia; son, Michael Talley of Tarpon Springs, Florida; grandchildren, Jennifer (Eric) Meadows, Derek (Tia) Morgan, Sean (Diana) Morgan, Jason (Carla) Winkler, Jenna (James) Gerbasi, Jay (Abby) Winkler; great-grandchildren, Morgan, Madi and Maddox Meadows, Clay and Kelsey Morgan, Maverick and Eliza Morgan, Genesis Malott, Bethany Winkler, Kaelin (Mason) Durst, Lilly, Turner and Lyric Wilson, Aubrey, Stephen and Braylee Gerbasi; great-great-grandson, Warren Cockran; son-in-law, Jeff Morgan; siblings, Judy Whitaker, Mary Ruth (Charlie) Kieffer, Jack (Mary) Helton; many loved nieces and nephews; sister-in-law, Karen Post and special friend, Barbara Locke.

Bonnie was preceded in death by her parents; husband; daughter, Beverly Kay Morgan;

granddaughter, Jaymie (Winkler) Wilson; brother, Robert George Helton; sisters, Eleanor Nation and Peggy Peterson; sister-in-law, Pat Bosecker.

The family would like to thank the staff at Oakview Nursing Home who cared for Bonnie and also a huge thank you to Wabash General Hospital for the compassionate care shown to Bonnie and her family

Graveside Services will be at 2:00 p.m., Sunday, January, 17, 2021 at Lick Prairie Cemetery with Pastor Gene Seals officiating. Bonnie will be laid to rest beside her beloved husband. Prior to the Graveside Service, the family and their closest friends will gather for a Visitation in the Chapel of Keepes Funeral Home.

Memorial contributions may be made in Bonnie’s memory to Wabash Rally Against Cancer, (WRAC) and will be accepted at the Graveside 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 Bonnie’s tribute wall, purchase flowers and leave condolences for the Talley family, please visit www.keepesfuneralhome.com

Gerald Lee Rich, 81

Gerald Lee Rich, 81, of Mt. Carmel, Illinois, passed away Tuesday, January 12, 2021, at his residence.

He was born October 12, 1939, the son of Jacob Earl and Letha M. (Davis) Rich in Monticello, Illinois.  On October 30, 1960, Jerry married Janice Woods at Lick Prairie Christian Church in Mt. Carmel, Illinois.  They were married 60 years.

Jerry was a member of Lick Prairie Christian Church.  He loved watching his grandchildren play sports and camping with his family.  Jerry owned and operated the Mt. Carmel Bowling Alley for 30 years.  In his younger years, he enjoyed golfing.

Left to cherish Jerry’s memory are his wife of 60 years, Janice; children Tammy (Don) Quillen of West Salem, Illinois, Shari (Dirk) Olson of McKinney, Texas and Donnie Rich of Mt. Carmel, Illinois; grandchildren Michael Quillen, Barkley Quillen, Brian Quillen, Jonathan Olson, Devan Rich and Cole Rich; great-grandchildren Morgan, Jacob, Dakota and Kristina Quillen; sister Phyllis (Clyde) Ulm; sister-in-laws Judy (Bob) Reed and Janet Rich; brother-in-law Neal (Pansy) Woods; and several nieces and nephews.

Jerry was preceded in death by his parents, sister Betty Jo Rich and a brother Robert Rich.

Friends and family are welcome to attend a graveside service at Lick Prairie Cemetery on Friday, January 15, 2021 at 2:00 p.m.         

Memorials may go to Lick Prairie Christian Church or Lick Prairie Cemetery.  Envelopes will be available at the graveside service or can be mailed to Short-Cunningham Funeral Home, P.O. Box 397, Mt. Carmel, Illinois 62863.  They can also be dropped off at the funeral home or made on Short’s website.

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

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

Robert (Bob) Livingston, 75

Robert (Bob) Livingston, 75, died on January 8, 2021 at Deaconess Midtown Hospital following a brief battle with COVID-19. He was born on June 5, 1945 in Cisne, Illinois and was adopted by his loving parents John Spurgeon and Helen Margaret (Haskin) Livingston. Bob graduated from Flora High School in the class of 1963. He faithfully served his country in the U.S. Navy from 1967 – 1971 where he traveled extensively in the Caribbean, South America, and Europe.

After returning from the Navy, Bob attended SIU at Carbondale and received his bachelor’s and master’s degrees in history. For one summer, he studied abroad in Europe. He became a journalist for newspapers in Flora, Illinois and Sidney, Nebraska. In 1982, Bob came to Mt. Carmel to be the sports editor and general reporter for the Daily Republican Register. For 29 ½ years, he covered the sports for the MCHS Aces, WVC Warriors, and other community sports.

On June 25, 1988, he married Ruth Veihman. Together they attended many games for the MCHS Aces, WVC Warriors, SIU Salukis, Mizzou Tigers, and St. Louis Cardinals. He also adored the Green Bay Packers. Besides sports, Bob liked history, photography, and was an avid reader. He loved everything chocolate.

Bob was a member of Trinity United Methodist Church and was also very active at Asbury Chapel United Methodist Church. He was a member of the Elks, SIU Alumni Association, and served on the Christmas Parade Committee for more than 20 years.

He dearly loved his family and will be greatly missed by family and friends.

Left to cherish his memories are his wife of 32 years, Ruth; sister Mary (John Spitzner) Hutchens of Flora, Illinois; sister-in-law Marilyn (Jim) Cox of Mt. Carmel, Illinois; brother-in-law Paul (Goldie) Veihman of Tarpon Springs, Florida; nephew Pat (Doreen) Spitzner of Cedar Rapids, Iowa; nieces Lisa (Eric) Stanley of Clay City, Illinois; Cindy (Mike) Tatman of Flora, Illinois; Julie (Dwight) Stricklin of Lincoln, Illinois; Carrie (Ryan) Parmenter of Mt. Vernon, Indiana; and Sallie (Charlie) Dolan of Catlin, Illinois; and several great-nieces, great-nephews, and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his parents; brother-in-law John “Bill” Hutchens; and mother and father in-law Raymond A. and Evah O. Veihman

There will be a private family funeral Saturday, January 16, 2021. Interment will be at Highland Memorial Cemetery.

Memorials may be made to Trinity United Methodist Church or Asbury Chapel United Methodist Church. They can be mailed to Short-Cunningham Funeral Home, P.O. Box 397, Mt. Carmel, Illinois 62863, dropped by the funeral home or 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 Bob’s family

2021 Golf Cart/UTV Stickers Now Available

Permits for golf carts and UTV’s to operate legally on Mt. Carmel streets are now available at the police department. MCPD Chief Ryan Turner said not all golf carts and UTV’s need to be inspected this year… 

The cost of a sticker for a new golf cart or UTV is $75 while it’s $50 for a one that it being renewed. And, Turner said the expiration date on the stickers is one year from the time it was purchased.