Dorothy Ann Jens, 61

Dorothy Ann Jens, 61, of Keensburg, Illinois, passed away Wednesday, May 12, 2021 at home, surrounded by the love of her family.

She was born on February 4, 1960, in Webster County, Missouri, the daughter of William F. and Nola M. (Collins) Weber. She married Bob Jens on June 3, 1976 and he survives.

Dorothy loved her work in health care. She worked as a geriatric nurse and also as an EMT. In her spare time, she enjoyed baking goodies for her family and friends. Dorothy loved her family dearly and her grandchildren held a special place in her heart. She will be missed by all who knew her.

Dorothy leaves behind her husband; daughters, Trisha Skidmore and husband, Mark, Michelle Vessels and husband, Steve, Brandi Jolley and husband, Dakotah; grandchildren, Cameron Vessels, Madisyn Walker, Lauryn Skidmore, Tyler Robinson, Sierra Deal, Ellie Reese, Ryan Wood, Jordan Jolley; great-grandchildren Felicity Stevenson and Odin Vessels; eleven siblings; many nieces and nephews.

Dorothy was preceded in death by her parents; grandsons, Austin Walker and Chase Deal.

Funeral Services will be 12:00 p.m., Tuesday, May 18, 2021, in the Chapel of Keepes Funeral Home with Pastor Allan Wright officiating. Burial will follow at Bethel Cemetery.

Family and friends may gather for a Visitation from 11:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m., Tuesday, May 18, 2021 in the Chapel of Keepes Funeral Home.

Social distancing, wearing of face coverings and use of hand sanitizer is recommended.

Memorial contributions may be made in Dorothy’s memory to Wabash Rally Against Cancer, (WRAC) and will be accepted at the Visitation or may be mailed in care of Keepes Funeral Home, 1500 North Cherry St., Mt. Carmel, IL 62863.

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

Brian Keith McKendree, 41

Brian Keith McKendree, 41, of Mount Carmel, passed away Tuesday, May 11, 2021 at Deaconess Midtown Hospital surrounded by the love of his family.  He was born on September 28, 1979 in Sullivan, Indiana, the son of Roger McKendree and Roberta (Brewer) McKendree. 

Brian loved art and was an artistic person.  He put that talent to work as a tattoo artist.  He enjoyed playing video games and watching football games.  He was a big Indianapolis Colts fan.  Brian’s family and friends considered him a jokester.  He was a loving person and will be dearly missed.

Brian leaves behind one son, Tyler McKendree; parents, Roger McKendree and step-mother, Donna Lord, mother, Roberta McKendree and step-father Bob Bull; sister, Wendy McKendree; several nieces, nephews and cousins.

Brian was preceded in death by his son, Brian McKendree Jr.

Graveside services will be held at 10:30 a.m., Friday May 14, 2021 at Rose Hill Cemetery with Pastor Bill Reed officiating.

Memorial contributions may be made to the McKendree family to help offset Brian’s final expenses.

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

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Celebration of Life for Joe and MaryLynn Young

A Celebration of Life will be held for Joseph W. (January 27, 1932-June 19, 2019) and MaryLynn (March 25, 1933-May 6, 2020) Young on Saturday, May 22, 2021, at 12:00 noon in the chapel of Short Funeral Home (527 N. Mulberry, Mt. Carmel, Illinois). Burial will be held following the funeral service at Lawrenceville City Cemetery (300 18th Street, Lawrenceville, Illinois).

Relatives and friends are invited to a visitation prior to the service from 10:30 a.m. until 12:00 p.m. Please enter through the garage.

Memorials may be given in Joe’s memory to Wabash County Museum and in MaryLynn’s memory to P.E.O. Sisterhood. Memorial envelopes will be available at the funeral home.

COVID-19 precautions, wearing of face coverings, social distancing and use of hand sanitizer is recommended.

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

Short-Cunningham Funeral Home is honored to serve the Young family

Kenneth E. Schnell, 80

NOTE: A memorial service for former Mt. Carmel resident, Ken Schnell, will be held at First Baptist Church, 130 W. 6th St., Mt. Carmel, IL on Saturday, May 22nd at 1:00 pm. Ken passed away on April 25, 2021 at his home in Lincolnton, North Carolina.

Kenneth E. Schnell, 80, of Lincolnton died April 25, 2021 at his home. He was born on December 16, 1940 in IL to the late Lester and Effie Mae Schnell.

Ken was the owner of Schnell’s Body and Glass Shop in Mt. Carmel, Illinois for 30 years, then worked 11 years with Joe Gibbs Racing after moving to North Carolina. He was a devoted Christian and a member of Lake Norman Baptist Church where he served as a deacon for several years. Ken enjoyed NASCAR, woodcarving and was an avid bird watcher.

Survivors include his wife Susan L. Schnell; son, Brittan (Tamara) Schnell; daughter, Cyndi Jo (Chris) Brady; Grandchildren: Payton (Erin) Brady, Adeline Brady, Brantley and Millie Schnell, Great Granddaughter Parker Elizabeth Brady and sister, Phyllis Umfleet. He was preceded in death by brothers, Donald and Doyle Schnell.

Memorials may be made to Hospice and Palliative Care Lincoln County, 900 Dontia Drive, Lincolnton, NC 28092.

A funeral service was held at 6 PM Thursday, April 29 at Lake Norman Baptist Church. Visitation was 4-6 PM prior to the service (all in the chapel).

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Steven D. Neikirk, 69

Steven D. Neikirk, 69, of Mt. Carmel, Illinois, passed away Monday, May 10, 2021, at Deaconess Gateway Hospital in Newburgh, Indiana, surrounded by his loving family.

Steven was born February 3, 1952, in Lancaster, Illinois, the son of John Harold and Lola Marie (Gawthorp) Neikirk. He graduated from Mt. Carmel High School in the class of 1970. On October 27, 1979, Steven married Judy Blain in Friendsville, Illinois.

He attended Lancaster Christian Church. Steven was a member of Lancaster Community Club and Illinois Laborer’s Union #1197. Steven worked as a general laborer in construction. He enjoyed the outdoors, especially blackberry picking and working in his garden. Steven was an amazing cook and was famous for his chicken and noodles. He would drop anything to help someone in need. His greatest love was his family and being “Pop” to his grandchildren. Home was his favorite place.

Left to cherish Steven’s memory is his wife, Judy, of 41 years of marriage; children John K. (Dana Roberson) Neikirk of O’Fallon, Illinois, and Jessie (Alex) Eblen of Evansville, Indiana; siblings, John (Sue) Neikirk, Larry (Darlene) Neikirk, Robert (Cathy) Neikirk, Linda Perkins, Katherine Neikirk, Marilyn Neikirk (Bernard Turpin), Terry (Debbie) Neikirk and Judy (Jeff) Landingham; grandchildren Hannah, Grace, Sam and Sophie Eblen; and many nieces and nephews.

Steven was preceded in death by his parents and siblings Joyce DeHaven and Gene Neikirk.

A funeral service will be held Friday, May 14, 2021, at 2:00 p.m. in the chapel of Short Funeral Home (517 N. Mulberry Street, Mt. Carmel, Illinois). Burial will be at Harrison Cemetery at Lancaster, Illinois.

Friends and family are welcome to a visitation prior to the service from 11:00 a.m. until the service time at 2:00 p.m.

Please enter through the garage.

COVID-19 precautions, wearing of face coverings, social distancing and use of hand sanitizer is recommended.

Memorials may be made to WRAC (Wabash Rally Against Cancer). 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 the Neikirk family.

Brenda Kae (Beauchamp) Talley, 73

Brenda Kae (Beauchamp) Talley, 73, of Mt. Carmel, Illinois, passed away May 5, 2021, at her daughter’s house in Newburgh, Indiana, surrounded by family.  She was born March 14, 1948, in Princeton, Indiana, the daughter of Grant and Mary Lou (Higgins) Beauchamp.  On June 7, 1969, Brenda married Richard L. Talley at Zion Evangelical Lutheran Church in Mt. Carmel. 

Mrs. Talley was a lifelong member of Zion Evangelical Lutheran Church in Mt. Carmel, Illinois.  Upon graduating with a M.S. in Education from E.I.U. in 1971, she taught two years in Bradford, Illinois.  She then returned to Mt. Carmel to teach at District #348 until she retired in 2004.  Brenda was a member of Delta Theta Tau and IEA/NEA.  She and Diane Liddle wrote a book on “Power Writing.”  They traveled the Midwest teaching their innovative writing technique and were invited to Vermont for the NEA National Convention to present this technique.

Brenda thoroughly relished playing bridge with her friends, cooking, baking, and interior decorating.  She liked to travel with Rick and their families making special memories on many cruises, including one to the Turks and Caicos.  One very special cruise was in celebration of their 50th wedding anniversary surrounded by the entire family.  Family was Brenda’s greatest love.  Adoring her 3 granddaughters came easy to her.

Left to cherish Brenda’s memory is her husband of 50 years, Rick; children, Joshua Roy (Jill Greminger) Talley of Fulshear, TX and Jenna Mary (Nick) Will of Newburgh, IN; three granddaughters, Rilee Lucille, Addison Louise and Sophia Mary Will of Newburgh, IN; siblings, Ruth Ann (Tony) Bowles of Mt. Carmel and Jeffery Grant (Donna) Beauchamp of Collinsville, IL; brother and sister-in-law, John (Roberta) Talley of Mt. Carmel; four nieces, Julie Bowles Litherland of Ponchatoula, LA, Katie and Elizabeth Beauchamp of St. Peters, MO, Joanna Beauchamp of Collinsville, IL; three nephews, Nate Bowles of Mt. Carmel, Brian (Jamie) Talley of Washington, IL, and Brent Talley of Mt. Carmel; three great-nieces, Jessi (Lucas) Woodford and Kayla Litherland (Ryan her fiancé) of Newburgh, IN, and Clare Talley of Washington, IL; two great-nephews, Sam and Will Talley of Washington, IL; and a great great-niece, Landree Woodford of Newburgh, IN.

Brenda was preceded in death by her parents and two infant grandchildren, Ethan and Aubrey Talley.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held Sunday, May 16, 2021, at 3:00 p.m. in the Chapel of Short Funeral Home (527 N. Mulberry Street, Mt. Carmel, Illinois).  Family will receive friends on Sunday, May 16, 2021, from 1:00 until 3:00 p.m. 

 Please enter through the garage.

 COVID-19 precautions, wearing of face coverings, social distancing and use of hand sanitizer is recommended.

 Memorials can be made to NephCure Kidney International, St. Jude’s Hospital, Riley’s Children’s Hospital in Indianapolis, Indiana, or MD Anderson.  Envelopes will be available at Short Funeral Home (P.O. Box 397, Mt. Carmel, IL 62863) or online through Short’s website.

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

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

John Edward Raber, 90

John Edward Raber, 90, of Browns, Illinois passed away on May 4, 2021 at Deaconess Gateway Hospital in Evansville, IN.

John was born on October 30, 1930 in Carmi, Illinois. The son of John Phillip Raber and Pauline (Kallenback) Raber. He grew up on the Raber Farm in Browns, Illinois, graduating from Browns High School in 1948. John married Norma Fleck in 1957 and she survives.

He served during the Korean War, in the Army 7th INF Medical Div 31 INF Reg as a medical aid. John received a Purple Heart, Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Korean Service Medal with 2 Bronze Service Stars, Combat Infantryman Badge and United National Service Medal. He was an American Legion Member.

Church was very important in his life. He was a active member of Friedens UCC and served on the church board for several years. He enjoyed singing the church hymns.

John served on the Wabash County Soil and Water Conservation Board, Drainage District #6, Bonpas River Conservation Board and Browns Rural Fire.

He enjoyed farming and his cattle. John enjoyed traveling in the later years and has been to most of the states and Mexico.

John is survived by his wife, Norma; sons, Merle (Karen) Raber and Gary Raber; grandchildren, Hannah Raber, Kristopher Raber and Mallory Raber; two great-grandchildren, Carter and Norah Raber; brother, Darrell Raber of Bartlet, TN.

He was preceded in death by his parents and a sister Joan Jennings.  

Visitation for friends and family will be held on Friday, May 7, 2021 from noon until the hour of service at 2:00 p.m. in the Chapel of Short Funeral Home (527 North Mulberry Street, Mt. Carmel, IL 62863). Burial will follow in Highland Memorial Cemetery.

COVID-19 precautions, wearing of face coverings, social distancing and use of hand sanitizer is recommended.

Memorial contributions may be made to Friedens Church or American Diabetes Association. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home or donations may be made online.

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

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

Georgetta F. (Hayes) Armstrong

Georgetta F. (Hayes) Armstrong of Mt. Carmel, Illinois passed from this side of forever on Tuesday, April 27, 2021 while a patient at Wabash General Hospital. She was born in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma on August 14, 1932, the daughter of George S. and Leota (Horton) Hayes. Georgetta’s family followed the oil boom to Mt. Carmel in the late 1930s, and she remained a Mt. Carmel resident ever since. She married the love of her life, LaMoine Armstrong, at the Mt. Carmel First Baptist Church on June 6, 1950.

She had a strong faith and dearly loved her family. Georgetta lived with graceful and silent courage through a myriad of health issues to the end. She was a strong, intellectual but unpretentious person, and a wonderful role model for her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Georgetta had a life-long passion for reading, and voraciously read the Mt. Carmel and Evansville newspapers, the Wall Street Journal, and novels (particularly mysteries and science-fiction).

Georgetta was a leader throughout her long life, including stints as the Mt. Carmel High School Class President (Class of 1950), girl scout leader, cub scout den mother, and Golden Nuggets softball coach during the inaugural years of the girls softball program in Mt. Carmel. She also organized and led multiple youth group trips to the Southern Baptist Convention’s Ridgecrest church camp in the mountains of North Carolina. Georgetta was never afraid to strike up a conversation with anyone anywhere, including the then Georgia gubernatorial candidate Jimmy Carter on the front steps of the Ridgecrest chapel.

She worked many years in the Mt. Carmel post office until she was promoted Assistant Post Master in Bellmont.

Georgetta, LaMoine and her family greatly enjoyed decades of boating on the Wabash and White Rivers, Lake Barkley, and Kentucky Lake. She also loved to travel. Until health issues intervened, Georgetta traveled throughout the U.S., the Caribbean, Australia, and Europe, including many tours sponsored by Wabash Valley College and Mount Carmel High School, led by her friends Jerry and Vickie Bayne.

Georgetta is survived by her loving children Terry Armstrong of Mt. Carmel, Gabe (Denise) Armstrong of Mt. Carmel, George (Georgia) Armstrong of East Peoria, Illinois, as well as her adoring grandchildren Gerrit (Jamie) Armstrong, Marci Armstrong, Jacob (Elisha) Armstrong, Jason Armstrong, and Kyle Armstrong, and great-grandchildren Allyson and Maleah Armstrong; step brother, Kevin (Lee Ann) Macy, step grandchild Shaun (Jenny) Bruner and step great-grandchildren Liam and Mila Bruner; her dear niece Michele (Bryan) Loeffler and grand-niece Kelsey (Trey) Beckerman also cherish Georgetta’s memory.

Georgetta was preceded in death by many that she dearly loved, including her parents George and Leota, husband of 61 years LaMoine, brother Donald L. Hayes, sister-in-law Marilyn (Zimmerman) Hayes, and daughter-in-law Mary (White) Armstrong.

Family and friends are invited to a visitation from 10:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m. Friday, April 30, 2021, at Short-Cunningham Funeral Home, 527 N Mulberry Street, Mt. Carmel, Illinois. A graveside funeral service will be held at 11:30 in Highland Memorial Cemetery, 1827 College Drive, Mt. Carmel, on Friday, April 30, 2021 following visitation.

COVID-19 precautions, wearing of face coverings, social distancing and use of hand sanitizer is recommended.

Memorials can be made to the Mt. Carmel Library, 727 N Mulberry Street, Mt. Carmel, Illinois 62863 and 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 Georgetta’s family.

Rebecca Jo “Becky” Rice, 66

Rebecca Jo “Becky” Rice, 66, of Mount Carmel, Illinois, passed away on Saturday, April 24, 2021 at Wabash Christian Village in Carmi, Illinois. She was born on November 6, 1954 in Evansville, Indiana, the daughter of Allen J. and Carol F. (Deer) Swain. Becky married Chris Rice, and he preceded her in death on November 20, 2007.

Becky was a loving wife, mother and grandmother. Her greatest achievement was raising her two children. She treasured her time with family, especially her grandchildren. She loved coaching and supporting all her grandchildren in their many activities. Becky always had a smile and had a gift for making people laugh. Becky was a member of The Roads Church and was strong in her Christian faith. She will be missed by her family and all who knew her.

Becky will be remembered by her son, Greg Rice and wife Amy of Ocean Springs, Mississippi; daughter, Amy Gammon and husband, Kevin of Mount Carmel; grandchildren, Kassidy Duran, Kyler Gammon, Makenna Rice and Ava Gammon; brothers, Dave (Terri) Swain, and Doug (Karen) Swain; sister, Terri (Jeff) Schultze; mother-in-law, Patricia Prosser; brother-in-law, Sonny Rice; sisters in law, Tammy (Lori) Rice, and Anitra (Jay) Calvert; many loved cousins, nieces and nephews.

Becky was preceded in death by her parents; husband; sister-in-law, Penny Dyer; and father-in-law, Kenneth Prosser.

Funeral Services will be at 1:00 p.m., Wednesday, April 28, 2021 in the Chapel of Keepes Funeral Home with Pastors Kevin and Amy Gammon officiating. Burial will follow at 3:30 p.m., Wednesday, April 28, 2021 at Saint Joseph Cemetery in Evansville, Indiana where Becky will be laid to rest next to her beloved husband, Chris.

Family and friends may gather for a Visitation from 11:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m., Wednesday, April 28, 2021, in the Chapel of Keepes Funeral Home. Social distancing, wearing of face coverings and use of hand sanitizer is recommended.

In Lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Becky’s memory to the Rice Family to help offset funeral expenses. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home or can be mailed to Keepes Funeral Home, 1500 N. Cherry Street, Mount Carmel, IL 62863.

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

Kathleen Y. Reed, 68

Kathleen Y. Reed, 68, of Princeton, Indiana, formerly of Mt. Carmel, Illinois, passed away Saturday, April 24, 2021, at Gateway Hospital in Newburgh, Indiana.

She was born November 20, 1952, the daughter of Walter and Margaret (Grisby) Gallion in Evansville, Indiana. Kathy married Ralph Reed at Hope Fellowship Church in Mt. Carmel.

Kathy was a member of Hope Fellowship Church in Mt. Carmel. She was a homemaker.

Left to cherish Kathy’s memory is her husband, Ralph; father-in-law Amos Reed of Mt. Carmel; four sisters Tammy Kavalos of Grayville, Illinois, Rhonda (Tim) Briggs of Mt. Carmel, Illinois; Diane Hill of Los Angeles, California, and Rebecca Colon of Mt. Carmel, Illinois; two brothers Mark Orange and Bill Jack Orange of Madill, Oklahoma; and many nieces and nephews.

Kathy was preceded in death by her parents, son James Gallion and five brothers Walter, Samuel, Pete, Michael and Austin.

Visitation for Kathy will be held Wednesday, April 28, 2021, from 12:00 until 2:00 p.m. in the chapel of Short Funeral Home, 527 N. Mulberry Street, Mt. Carmel, Illinois, with the funeral service following at 2:00 p.m. Burial will immediately follow at Lick Prairie Cemetery.

COVID-19 precautions, wearing of face coverings, social distancing and use of hand sanitizer is recommended.

Memorials may be made to Short Funeral Home, P.O. Box 397, Mt. Carmel, Illinois 62863, to help Ralph with funeral expenses.

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

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

Dolores (Suzie) Kennard, 75

Dolores (Suzie) Kennard, 75, of Mt. Carmel, IL died on Saturday, April 17, 2021 at her residence.

She was born on October 22, 1945 in Princeton, IN, to Marlin Riggs and Patricia Comiskey Riggs of Mt. Carmel.

Suzie graduated from St. Mary’s grade school, Mt. Carmel High School, Eastern Illinois University, and Indiana State University. She taught for 42 years before retiring from District 348 in 2008.

She married Charles Franklin Kennard, who preceded her in death in 2009.

She is survived by children, Dan Kennard of Keensburg, Denia Hedge of Fairfield, Kim Thompson of Albion, Nichole (Greg) Osborne of Albion, daughter-in-law Dianne Kennard of Mt. Carmel. Grandchildren are Chelsea Wheeler, Colby Worley, Trenton Thompson, Tori Thompson, Samantha Bingman, Mason Kennard, Logan Kennard, Trevor Kennard and Gage Kennard and five great-grandchildren.

Suzie was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, her brothers, Jim Riggs and Joe Riggs, her son Brett Kennard and son-in-law Ed Thompson.

In accordance with her wishes, her body will be cremated, and a private burial will be held.

Memorials can be made to St. Mary’s Catholic School by mailing them to P.O. Box 397, Mt. Carmel, IL 62863 or made online at www.short-cunninghamfh.com

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

Mary L. Riley, 87

Mary L. Riley, 87, of Grayville, Illinois, died Tuesday, April 20, 2021, at Deaconess Gateway Hospital in Newburgh, Indiana.  She was born October 16, 1933, in Edwards County, Illinois, the daughter of Thomas F. and Hattie Kay (Schmittler) Hodgson.  She was married to John A. Riley on March 10, 1951, and he preceded her in death on March 30, 1983.

Mary was a member of the now-disbanded Church of God in Grayville. She enjoyed growing flowers, listening to country music, listening to anything by Elvis Presley, and watching television programs including Wheel of Fortune, The Voice, American Idol and country music awards programs.  The St. Louis Cardinals were her favorite team. Cooking with love for her family dinners was one of her favorite things to do.

Survivors include son Mike (Linda) Riley; daughters Sandy (Larry) Bailey, Karen Riley, all of Grayville; grandchildren James Bailey, Andrew Bailey, Randy Bailey, Chad (Tiffani) Riley, Lindsey (J.J.) Riley, Greg (Celeste) O’Neal, Amy (Emmit) Connely, Branda Ramirez, Bonnie (Dale) Carrell, Brad Burke;

Great-grandchildren Emma, Elizabeth, Rebecca, John, Haley, Adam, Kalob, Gregory, Ashton, Alessandro, Emilio, Santiago, Caitlin, Drennan, Cooper and Carly; great-great-grandchildren Jackson, Remi, and Grae.

She is preceded in death by her parents; husband; sisters Maude and Ruth; and brothers Melvin, Don, Bill, and Thomas Jr.

Visitation and funeral are Friday, April 23, 2021, at Cook Funeral Chapel in Grayville.  Visitation is at 1 pm and funeral is at 2 pm. Burial is in Oak Grove Cemetery in Grayville.

Cook Funeral Chapel in Grayville is in charge of arrangements.

Deaonna Seals, 82

Deaonna Seals, 82, of Mount Carmel, Illinois, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, April 14, 2021 at Oakview Heights Continuous Care & Rehab. She was born on April 23, 1938 in Wabash County, Illinois, the daughter of Claud and Eva E. (Mason) Whiting. Deaonna married Billy Seals who preceded her in death.

Deaonna was a go getter and a very hard worker. She was an amazing grandmother and treasured the time she spent with her family. She loved being outdoors and enjoyed listening to music. Deaonna loved caring for others as a nursing assistant. She loved animals especially dogs. Deaonna was a member of Parkview Christian Church. She will be missed by her family and all who knew her.

Deaonna will be remembered by her daughter, Kay (Tom) Graves of Patton; and grandson, Dravyn Sidwell.

Deaonna was preceded in death by her parents; and son, Eldred Ray Whiting.

In keeping with Deaonna’s wishes, cremation rites will take place and a private family burial will take place at a later date.

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

Baby Miles Snelling

Baby Miles Snelling, earned his angel wings on Wednesday, April 14, 2021 at Ascension St. Vincent Hospital in Evansville, Indiana. Baby Snelling is survived by his parents, Timmy and Jessica (Cunningham) Snelling of Mount Carmel; siblings, Caleb, Caden, Timmy Ray, Jasper, Benjamin and Caridee; maternal grandmother, Dawn Dewitt; paternal grandparents, Tim and Carlina Snelling; maternal great grandmother, Sandy Lowe; maternal great grandmother, Judy Banks; many loved aunts, uncles and cousins.

Baby Snelling is deeply loved by his mommy, daddy, siblings and extended family. He will always be their little angel boy.

Baby Miles joins in Heaven his grandfather, Dennis Lowe; and aunt, Tammy Snelling.

A Private Family Graveside Service will be held on Friday, April 16, 2021 at Bethel Cemetery in Bellmont, Illinois with Pastor Tony Hodgson officiating.

Keepes Funeral Home is serving the family with the arrangements. To view Baby Miles tribute wall, leave condolences and purchase flowers for the Snelling family, please visit www.KeepesFuneralHome.com.

John David “Dave” Higgins, 82

John David “Dave” Higgins, 82, of Mount Carmel, Illinois, passed away Wednesday, April 7, 2021 in the comforts of his home surrounded by the love of his family. He was born on September 13, 1938 in Mount Carmel, the son of C.S. and Tura (Foster) Higgins. On April 21, 1957 he married Elaine Beth Wilson and together they enjoyed sixty-one years of marriage until her passing on December 16, 2018.

Dave graduated from Mount Carmel High School in 1956. He graduated from Oklahoma University in 1961 with a Bachelor of Geology Degree. He worked thirty-one years in the oil industry with H & H Oil Company, Birdwell-Division of Seismograph Service and was a partner in Small & Higgins, Inc. Golf was Dave’s passion. With that passion, love of the game and a lot of determination, he received certification in Field of Golf Instruction from the United States Golf Teachers Federation in 1999. He was best in his class for teaching the proper way to swing a golf club, build golf clubs (fittings) and also repairs. Dave owned and operated Genesis Golf where he taught classes, made custom golf clubs and offered repairs for his golf buddies around Wabash County. He was a member of the Mount Carmel Men’s Golf Club, Mount Carmel Elks Lodge #715 and the Oil and Gas Association. He had a love for animals, most especially his little dog Min. Dave will be dearly missed by his family and all who knew him.

David leaves behind his son, Michael Higgins of Evansville, IN; three daughters, Angela Lofton and husband Joe of Allendale, IL, Sandra Higgins of Mount Carmel, Debbie Terrell and husband Billy of Grayville, IL; five grandchildren, Timothy Lofton, Tura Buchanan, Steven Eagan, Heather Southwood and Wendi Terrell; seven great-grandchildren;

In addition to his beloved wife, Elaine, David was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Bobby Higgins, T O Higgins and nephew, Jim Higgins.

Family and friends may gather for a Visitation from 11:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m., Tuesday, April 13, 2021 in the Chapel of Keepes Funeral Home. A Celebration of Life will follow at 12:00 p.m. in the Chapel of Keepes Funeral Home. Social distancing, wearing of face coverings and use of hand sanitizer is recommended.

Memorial contributions may be made in David’s memory to Wabash County Animal Shelter Buddies and will be accepted at the funeral home or may be mailed to Keepes Funeral Home 1500, North Cherry Street, Mt. Carmel, IL 62863.

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

John Irwin Stoltz, 96

John Irwin Stoltz, 96, of Bellmont, Illinois, passed away Monday, April 5, 2021 at home surrounded by the love of his family.  He was born November 13, 1924 in Wabash County, Illinois, the son of Irwin and Nora (Williams) Stoltz.  He married Irma Frances Stoneberger on November 3, 1951 and together they enjoyed fifty-nine years of marriage until her passing on November 6, 2010. 

John faithfully served his country in the United States Army during WWII.  He was employed many years as a bookkeeper and a tax preparer and then as the Postmaster of the Bellmont Post Office until his retirement.  John was a member of the Bellmont Ruritan Club and the Bellmont Volunteer Fire Department.  In his spare time, he enjoyed metal detecting and working in his back yard.  John deeply loved his five-generation family and the times they were able to all gather together.  He will be dearly missed by his family and friends.

John leaves behind two daughters, Irma Elizabeth Madden and husband Ross, Peggy Sue Compton, both of Bellmont, IL; two grandsons, Christopher Madden and wife Tabby of Paris, IL, Jacob Compton of St. Louis, MO; one granddaughter, Christina Haggstrom and husband Wade of Terre Haute, IN; seven great-grandchildren; three great-great-grandchildren; one sister, Betty Little John.

In addition to his loving wife, John was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Robert Stoltz; sisters, Lora Morris, Murell Wright, Beulah Stoltz; and son-in-law, Tony Compton. 

The family would like to extend a special thank you to all those who helped John during his illness, especially, Chris Roberts and family, Maise Peach, Shane Vaughn and Carle Hospice.

A Graveside Service, with full Military Honors, will be held at 2:00 p.m., Sunday, April 11, 2021 at Bethel Cemetery in Bellmont, IL, with Pastor David Shain officiating.  John will be laid to rest next to his beloved wife.

Memorial contributions may be made in John’s memory to the Bellmont Fire Department and will be accepted 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 John’s tribute wall, leave condolences and purchase flowers for the Stoltz family, please visit www.KeepesFuneralHome.com.

Davey Ray Dill, 65

Davey Ray Dill, 65, of Mt. Carmel, Illinois, passed away Friday, April 2, 2021, at St. Vincent Hospital in Evansville, Indiana.

He was born July 16, 1955, in Mt. Carmel, Illinois, the son of Marion Elmer and Mary (Dutton) Dill. Davey graduated from Mt. Carmel High School. He proudly served in the U.S. Marines as a diesel mechanic. After his service in the Marines, he worked as a general contractor in the construction business.

Davey was an outdoor person. He enjoyed fishing, digging for shells, talking about Indians and Indian artifacts. Davey was a social person and liked sitting and talking and enjoying a social drink. His greatest love was that of his children and family.

Left to cherish Davey’s memory are his life mate Theresa Jones; his children Robin Glenn of Whately, Massachusetts, Ivan Dill of Grayville, Illinois, David Dill of Foley, Alabama, Isaac (Jessica) Dill of Mt. Carmel, Illinois, Curt (Dara) Dill of Bellmont, Illinois, Clint Dill and Montana Dill of Mt. Carmel, Illinois; siblings Jeff Dill and Linda Dill of Mt. Carmel, Illinois; and twenty three grandchildren, Katelyne, Aaron, Jessup, Daniel, Shain, Tyler, Rebecca, Amanda, Ashton, Derick, Adriauna, Christian, Ethan, Curtis, CuraMae, Cara, Casing, Carter, Colt, Derick, Journey, Lillyauna, Liberty, Liam, Alex and Leslie.

Davey was preceded in death by his parents and siblings Steve, John and Marilyn Dill.

Services 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 Davey’s family.

Harold E. Payne, 89

Harold E. Payne, 89, of Allendale, Illinois, passed away Tuesday, March 30, 2021 at Good Samaritan Hospital in Vincennes, Indiana surrounded by the love of his family.  He was born on March 6, 1932 in Wabash County, Illinois, the son of Owen and Elnora (Keneipp) Payne.  He married Marian Compton on November 17, 1956 and together they have enjoyed sixty-four years of marriage.

Harold was a 1950 graduate of Allendale High School.  He faithfully served his country in the United States Army during the Korean War.  He began working on the family farm at the age of ten.  Farming became his passion that he continued until his retirement in 2019.  Harold was an active member of the Illinois Farm Bureau where he had served on the Wabash County Board, and had also served on the Farm Service Agency Board.  He was a member of Adams Corner United Methodist Church where he enjoyed teaching Sunday School classes.  In his spare time, Harold liked playing the harmonica and listening to records.  He loved his family dearly and they cherished his love and guidance.  He will be dearly missed by all who knew him.

Harold leaves behind his loving wife, Marian; two sons, Michael Payne and wife Carla, Dennis Payne and wife Janet; two grandchildren, Brandon Payne & wife Jennifer, Laurel Payne; two great-grandchildren, Livia Marie and Patrick Harold; sister, Rose Silva; brother-in-law, Warren Liddle; several nieces and nephews.

Harold was preceded in death by his parents; two sisters, Sylvia Payne and Jane Liddle.

Graveside Services will be held at 11:30 a.m., Friday, April 2, 2021 at Highland Memorial Cemetery.  Harold will be laid to rest with Full Military Honors.

Please follow the CDC recommendations of social distancing and wearing of face coverings at the Graveside Service.

Memorial contributions may be made in Harold’s memory to the Local Military Honor Guard or to Adams Corner United Methodist Church and will be accepted at the cemetery 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 Harold’s tribute wall, leave condolences and purchase flowers for the Payne family, please visit www.KeepesFuneralHome.com.

William Gene (Trapper) Brown, 82

William Gene (Trapper) Brown, 82, of Boonville,  Indiana, entered rest on Sunday, March 28, 2021 at home surrounded by his family. He was born on August 27, 1939 in Evansville Indiana to Clifford (Brownie) and Mary Brown. He attended Mount Carmel high school where he played basketball, football, and track. He worked for Ashland Oil as a Transporter/Gauger. He later retired from Allendale Gravel Company as a Dredge Operator. He enjoyed being a member of the American Legion, Elks, Moose, VFW Auxiliary, and the Eagles where he could be found drinking Crown and dancing to Patsy Cline. Nothing was more important to him than his family, aside from maybe golf.

He was married to Darlene Brown for 42 years. He was an amazing loving father to children Terri (Brown) Wiger, Jim Alka (Susan), Carin Brown, Billy Brown (Ranell), and Teresa Duncombe (Kenny). Once his grandchildren, Mike Wiger (Kacey), Whitney Like (Kasey), Marvin Kimmel, Jesse Brown and Cami Timberlake were born he spoiled, guided, and entertained them. He later had four great grandchildren who adored and admired him. As a husband, father, and friend he was always a source of smiles and wisdom, he touched many lives in his lifetime.

Bill enjoyed golf and was found spending his free time at the Mount Carmel and Okeechobee golf courses.  He will be missed by his sister in law, Carolyn, his nieces, a nephew and his many friends in Mt. Carmel, Illinois and Buckhead Ridge, Florida. Bill was preceded in death by his parents, brothers Jack Brown and Bud Brown, sisters in law, Marilyn Brown, Ellen Brown, as well as his son Marvin Matchett.

Per his wishes the family will be having a private gathering to celebrate his life. Any condolences can be sent to Darlene Brown at 611 Poplar Street Boonville Indiana 47601.

Simple Cremation Evansville is entrusted with care.

Bobby J. Dicus, 90

Bobby J. Dicus, 90, of Mt. Carmel, Illinois, passed away March 30, 2021, at Deaconess Midtown Hospital in Evansville, Indiana. 

He was born August 15, 1930, the son of William Thurman and Amanda Grace (Dardeen) Dicus in Allendale, Illinois.  He was a graduate of Allendale High School.  On November 12, 1949, he married Virginia Dare Goad. 

Bobby was a member of the Evangelical United Methodist Church.  He worked as a machinist for Pacific Press and Shear.  Bobby was a member of the Masonic Lodge #239 in Mt. Carmel.

Left to cherish Bobby’s memory are his wife, Virginia, of 71 years of marriage; children Gary (Patty) Dicus of Evansville, Indiana, Donald (Mary Lou) Dicus of Mt. Carmel, Illinois, and Bryan (Cricket) Dicus of Carmi, Illinois; sisters Carol Jean Crouch of Mt. Carmel, Illinois and Barbara (Jim) Hatfield of Charleston, Illinois; ten grandchildren Summer Bennett, Holly Dicus, April Bonenberger, Aaron Simms, Abby Douglas, Rachel Simms, Katie Glenn, Jacob Dicus, Amy Whitley and Andy Mullins;  and eighteen great-grandchildren Myles Hawkins, Jackson, Samuel and Oliver Bennett, Dagan and Arian Bonenberger, Madeline, Caleb, Isaac and Andrew Douglas, Isaiah, Macy and Maya Glenn, Elijah, Ella and Elena Simms, Reagan and Reece Whitley; and many nieces and nephews.

Bobby is preceded in death by his parents and brothers Willard, Billy and Jerry Dicus; sisters Juanita Terrell, Maxine Blair, Bonnie Simonds, Virginia A. Dicus, Fern Couch and Mary Lee Day.

There will be a private family service Friday, April 2, 2021.  Burial will be in Allendale Cemetery.

Memorials can be made to St. Jude Children’s Hospital, 262 Danny Thomas Place, Memphis, Tennessee 38105 or can be mailed to Short Funeral Home, 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 Dicus family.