Marvin Lee Jones, 66

Marvin Lee Jones, 66, of Mount Carmel, Illinois, passed away Wednesday, January 26, 2022, at Wabash General Hospital, surrounded by the love of his family.  He was born on July 24, 1955, in Carmi, Illinois, the son of Paul and Audrey (Bennett) Jones.  On August 8, 1980, he married Linda Kays at the Senior Citizens Center in Mount Carmel. 

Marvin worked for twenty-three years as an advanced EMT in Gibson County, Indiana, and was a Chief EMT at Wabash General Hospital during the early years of the Ambulance Service.  Some of Marvin’s favorite childhood memories are centered around his grandmother, Bessie Grubb who lovingly raised him.  Marvin enjoyed traveling, especially trips to Arizona.  Marvin and Linda enjoyed a good game of cards with family and friends and visiting at cookouts and gatherings.  Marvin liked to read, play video games, and he created many beautiful counted cross stitch pictures.  He was known as an excellent cook with his specialty being homemade noodles at the holidays.  Marvin was a member of Bellmont Methodist Church and also attended the First Christian Church.  He was a caring person, and he will be dearly missed by his family and friends.

Marvin leaves behind his loving wife of forty-one years, Linda; brother, Mike (Rosella) Jones of Carmi, IL; sisters, Debbie (David) Patterson of Chicago, IL, Sue (Bob) Hunt of Princeton, IN, Donna (Larry) Smithhart of Carmi, IL; many loved nieces and nephews.

Marvin was preceded in death by his parents; grandmother, Bessie Grubb; grandparents, John and Lillie Jones; two nephews, Daniel Kays, and Josh Churchill.

A Celebration of Life in honor of Marvin will be held at a later date.

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

William F. “Bill” Erdman, 90

William F. “Bill” Erdman, 90, of Mt. Carmel, Illinois, passed away at his residence Saturday, January 22, 2022, surrounded by the love of his family.

He was born June 25, 1931, the son of William F. and Carrie R. (Carter) Erdman in Flora, Illinois. Bill graduated high school and joined the U.S. Air Force. On February 1, 1951, he married Esta Doades in Flora, Illinois.

Bill was a member of the Gospel Kingdom Church, VFW and American Legion.  He worked for Potter & Brumfield in Princeton, Indiana for ten years. Bill then went to work at Snap-On Tools. He retired after 22 years as a supervisor. He enjoyed camping on the White River, fishing, archery and hunting. 

Left to cherish Bill’s memory are his wife Esta, of 70 years of marriage; children, Angela Prater of Princeton, Indiana, and Larry (Laura) Pride of Mt. Carmel, Illinois; grandchildren, Andrew Erdman and Jessica Erdman of Mt. Carmel, Illinois, Carrie Nicki (Justin) Oyler of Decatur, Illinois, Chelsea (Jarad) Carter of Mt. Erie, Illinois, Derek (Hailey) Erdman of Princeton, Indiana, and Megan Jackson; step-grandchildren, Eric Norrick, Amanda Ewald and Keith Armstrong, Jr.; great-grandchildren, Skylar and Lee Ann, Jordyn, Joseph, Adilyn, Ella Mae, Jeremiah, Phoenix, Lorenzo and Madison; twelve step-great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.

Bill is preceded in death by his parents and sisters, Ezula and LaJean Erwin.

The Funeral Service will be held Monday, January 31, 2022, at 1:00 p.m. at Gospel Kingdom Church, 1440 West Third Street, Mt. Carmel, Illinois, with a visitation beginning at 11:00 a.m. until the time of service.  Burial will be in Highland Memorial Cemetery.

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

Memorials may go to Gospel Kingdom Church, 1440 West Third Street, Mt. Carmel, Illinois 62863. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home.

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

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

Zanada Cravens, 88

Zanada Cravens, 88, of Mount Carmel, Illinois, passed away Sunday, January 23, 2022, at Wabash General Hospital, surrounded by the love of her family.  She was born on May 13, 1933, in Harrisburg, Illinois, the daughter of Bon and Pauline (Wilson) Tolbert.  She married Kenneth Cravens on August 11, 1956, in Mitchellville, Illinois, with Reverend Paul Dann officiating.  Together they enjoyed fifty-eight years of marriage until his passing on January 5, 2015. 

Zanada worked alongside her husband as the office manager at their family-owned business, Clarks Sheet Metal and Roofing.  She was very involved with the local Chamber of Commerce, and Merchants Association.  She was immensely proud of the work she did in the community.  Zanada had a love for animals, especially her cats.  She loved gardening and always kept her yard looking very nice.  All of her life, she enjoyed writing poetry which brought her great comfort.  She enjoyed traveling to many different places along with her husband.  In later years, her favorite trips were to California to visit her son.  Zanada was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother.  She was of Christian Faith with a sweet and gentle spirit who was blessed to be able to spend time with her great-grandchildren, instilling in them a loving legacy.  She will be dearly missed by her family and friends.

Zanada leaves behind her son, Kevin Cravens of Colfax, CA; daughter, Connie Clark, and husband David of Mount Carmel; grandson, Matthew Clark of Olney, IL; great-grandchildren, Aiden Logan, Bryar Clark, Clayton Clark and Deacon Clark; many loved cousins, nieces, and nephews.

Zanada was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Kenneth; brothers, Bob, James, and Harold Tolbert; sisters, Pauline Elsie Lewis, Betty Trippe, and infant sister, Zedia Ruth.

Funeral Services will be 1:00 p.m., Thursday, January 27, 2022, in the Chapel of Keepes Funeral Home with Pastor Mark Richison officiating.  Burial will follow at Highland Memorial Cemetery.

Family and friends may gather for a Visitation from 11:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m., Thursday, January 27, 2022, 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 Zanada’s memory to CLL Leukemia Foundation.  Envelopes will be at the funeral home or may be mailed to Keepes Funeral Home, 1500 N Cherry St.  Mt. Carmel, IL  62863. 

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

Ralph Andrew Reed, 46

Ralph Andrew Reed, 46, of Princeton, Indiana, formerly of Mt. Carmel, passed away Sunday, January 23, 2022, at his residence.

He was born December 22, 1975, the son of Amos and Charlotte (Pulliam) Reed in Mt. Carmel, Illinois. He graduated from Mt. Carmel High School. He married Kathleen Y. (Gallion) Reed at Hope Fellowship Church in Mt. Carmel. She proceeded him in death.

Ralph was a member of Hope Fellowship Church. He delivered papers for the Evansville Courier and Daily Republican Register for years and recently worked as an inspector for a manufacturing company.

Left to cherish Ralph’s memory is his father, Amos Reed, and a special friend, Ronald Pulliam.  

He is preceded in death by his mother and wife, Kathleen.

Funeral services will be held Thursday, January 27, 2022, at 11:00 a.m. in the Chapel of Short Funeral Home, 527 N. Mulberry Street, Mt. Carmel, Illinois. A visitation will be held from 10:00 a.m. until service time. Burial is a Lick Prairie Cemetery.

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

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

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

Bradley Allen Adams, 61

Bradley Allen Adams, 61, of Grayville, Illinois, passed away Wednesday, January 12,  2022 at Wabash General Hospital.  He was born August 5, 1960, in Buffalo Grove, Illinois, the son of Lester Lee Adams and Lillian Mae (Waddle) Adams.  He grew up in Bone Gap, Illinois, living with his loving maternal grandparents, Harold, and Marie Waddle.

Bradley earned a bachelor’s degree in teaching from Eastern Illinois University and loved math and statistics.  He taught for a time but found that his shyness made public speaking a difficulty that he did not wish to battle, so he chose a quieter life doing factory work.  His love for math and statistics suited well for his other passion, baseball.  At any time, he could carry on a conversation with a stranger about baseball.  He knew more facts about baseball than most sports reporters.  He also enjoyed computer technology and games.  He lived most of his adult life in central Illinois but had returned to Grayville in the last few years.  He will be missed by his family and friends. 

Bradley leaves behind his siblings, Beverly Mejia of Lake Geneva, WI, John Adams of Central Illinois, Rodney (Donna) Adams of Humboldt, IL, Candice McDonald of Kansas City, MO, Karla Zimmerman of Cape Coral, FL, Harold Zimmerman of Naperville, IL; several nieces and nephews.

Bradley was preceded in death by his grandparents, Harold and Marie Waddle, mother, Lillian Mae (Waddle) Zimmerman along with her husband, Samuel of Villa Grove, IL, and his father, Lester Adams.

A Celebration of Life to honor Bradley will be held at a later date.

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

Charles E. “Chuck” Gilkerson, 94

Charles E. “Chuck” Gilkerson, 94, of Mount Carmel, Illinois, passed away on Friday, January 14, 2022 at Deaconess Midtown Hospital in Evansville, Indiana. Chuck was born on May 26, 1927 in Marengo, Illinois, the son of Harry C. and Fern G. (Goodrich) Gilkerson. He graduated High School in Fairfield, IL where he served as President of his Senior Class. Three Days following his high school graduation, Chuck enlisted in the United States Navy and was called to duty one day after his eighteenth birthday, where he served during World War II. While enlisted, he held rank as a Hospital Apprentice caring for over forty-five men; a time that Chuck referred to as long hours and tough times.

Chuck married Mary Joan Gaines on June 4, 1953 in Grayville, Illinois. In 1953, Chuck and Joan started Gilkerson Cleaners, a dry-cleaning store in Mount Carmel. From a young age, Chuck worked in his grandfather’s laundry and cleaning service where he learned to press. Chuck was proud of his community and had a desire to serve. In 1962, he joined Civil Defense in the county and was later appointed Deputy Director of Civil Defense in Wabash County. He was very proud to receive an award for a human relations talk after taking Dale Carnegie Training. Chief Gilkerson worked for Mt. Carmel Police Department from 1967-1988 and took great pride in our community while serving with dedication and professionalism. In 1969, Chuck attended University of Evansville Law Enforcement and also Wabash Valley College. Chuck also served as Detective for the City and County and was known for his attention to detail and was always thorough in his investigation work. Chuck earned a certificate from Midwest Investigative Hypnosis Institute as a Hypno-Investigator and this skill was often used to break cases.

Chuck was very proud of his family especially his grandson, Chase. He always treasured time spent with family. Among Chuck’s hobbies, he enjoyed building scale model radio control boats by scratch and was proud of his collection. Chuck was baptized of Christian faith and attended the Christian Church in Grayville and later attended First Church of God in Mount Carmel.

Chuck will be remembered by his loving wife, Joan Gilkerson of Mount Carmel; daughter, Beth Neely and husband, Paul of Allendale; grandson, Chase Neely and fiancé, Emily Snyder; great grandchildren, Kynzleigh Ann, Kayleigh Alyn, Benjamin Martin, Gracelyn Marie and Claire Mayson whom he was looking forward to welcoming in May. Chuck was preceded in death by his parents; sister and brother-in-law, Betty (Bob) Johnston.

A Graveside Service with Full Military Honors will be held at 1:00 p.m., Tuesday, January 18, 2022 at Highland Memorial Cemetery with Brother Bill Reed officiating. Mount Carmel Police Department and the Wabash County Sheriff’s Department will also be in attendance to honor Chuck’s faithful service to our community with a Last Call. A private family visitation will be held prior to the service.

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

Memorial contributions may be made in Chuck’s memory to Wabash County Crimestoppers or the Wabash County Animal Shelter Buddies. Envelopes will be at the graveside service 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 Chuck’s tribute wall, leave condolences and purchase flowers for the Gilkerson family, please visit www.keepesfuneralhome.com

Brian Scott Perry, 52

Brian Scott Perry, 52, passed way Saturday, January 8, 2022, at his residence surrounded by his family.

Brian was born May 18, 1969, the son of Gary Estol and Janet Lee (Wood) Perry, Sr. in Mt. Carmel, Illinois.

Brian loved spending time with family. He was a very social person; never met a stranger. He enjoyed visiting and talking with everyone he met. His time was spent fishing, mowing, and listening to music. He always looked forward to the next trip whether it be bowling, swimming, or shopping or eating out.

Left to cherish Brian’s memory are his brothers, Gary Estol Perry, Jr. of Lancaster, IL, Michael (Stephanie) Perry of Mt. Carmel and twin brother Bradley Lee Perry; nieces and nephews, Gary Lee Perry (Michael), Bethany Pack (Robert), Nick Perry (Rebecca), Michaela Perry (Trystan), Ashley Krug, Blain Perry (Mahaley), Jacob Perry (Alyssa); several great nieces and nephews and aunts and uncles.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Gary Estol and Janet Lee Perry.

Funeral services for Brian will be held Friday, January 28, 2022, at 1:00 p.m. in the Chapel of Short-Cunningham Funeral Home, 527 N. Mulberry Street, with visitation beginning at 11:00 a.m. until the time of the service.  Burial will be at Friendsville Cemetery.

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

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

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

Baby Grayson Wade Goldman,

Baby Grayson Wade Goldman, precious son of Kiefer Wade and Annie Grace (Dardeen) Goldman of Mt. Carmel, IL was stillborn on January 10, 2022, at The Women’s Hospital, Newburgh, IN.

 Grayson was 10 ounces and 9.75 inches long, born at 10:50 am. He fought hard for 6 months against all odds. We are so proud of him, and he is loved so much.

 Grayson will be remembered by his parents, Kiefer and Annie; grandparents, Hotdog and Karen Dardeen, Greg Goldman, Pam and Mark Phelps and, aunts and uncles, Maddie and Shane Herrell, Mollie Dardeen, Luke Dardeen, and Kiersten and Drew Cheadle; great-grandparents, David and Debbie Deckard, Harold Ray and Wanda Dardeen, Larry and Mary Harness, Ron Goldman and Virginia Goldman. Also surviving are several great aunts and uncles and cousins.

He is preceded in death by his great-grandma, Barbara Dardeen and great uncles, Roger and Bob Dardeen.

Private services will be held.

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

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

Vera Rose Thompson, 90

Vera Rose Thompson, 90, of Mount Carmel, passed away Wednesday, January 12, 2022, at Oakview Nursing and Rehab, surrounded by the love of her family.  She was born on October 7, 1931, in Wabash County, Illinois, the daughter of Clyde and Frances (Rose) Smith.  Vera was united in marriage to Samuel Thompson on March 10, 1951, in Lawrence County, Illinois.  The ceremony was performed by Samuel’s father.  Samuel preceded her in death in 1986. 

Vera was a loving wife, mother, and grandmother.  She was a devoted homemaker all while doing her share of chores on the family farm.  Her specialty was bailing the hay for the cattle.  Vera was passionate about genealogy and had a couple of her books published.   Vera was a talented cook and baker.  She was sought out for her extraordinary wedding cakes.  She was especially proud of building the family home alongside her husband.  Vera was very proud of the family she raised, and she loved them all dearly.  She will be missed by her family and friends.    

Vera leaves behind four sons, Bruce (Karen) Thompson of Fort Branch, IN, John (Martha) Thompson of Cape Girardeau, MO, Jay (Margaret) Thompson of Mount Carmel and Clyde (Tammy) Thompson of St. Francisville, IL; three daughters, Janet (CD) Ray, and Mary (Tony) Sweppy both of St. Francisville, IL, Gerry (Mark) McCully of St. Joseph MO.  Nineteen grandchildren; twenty five great-grandchildren; one great-great-grandchild; several nieces and nephews.

Vera was preceded in death by her parents; husband; two sisters, Jean Seaton and Ruth Youngman. 

Graveside Services will be at 12:30 p.m., Monday, January 17, 2022, at Wabash Presbyterian, Orio Cemetery with Pastor Kevin McGinnis officiating.

Memorial contributions may be made in Vera’s memory to Wabash County Animal Shelter Buddies.  Envelopes will be at the cemetery or may be mailed to Keepes Funeral Home, 1500 N Cherry St., Mt. Carmel, IL  62863.

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

Jessie “Evelyn” York, 93

Jessie “Evelyn” York, 93, of Mount Carmel, Illinois, passed away Tuesday, January 11, 2022, at home, surrounded by her loving family.  She was born on February 4, 1928, in Wabash County, Illinois, the daughter of Jacob and Blanche (Wallace) Wirth.  She married Ralph York on August 18, 1947, and he preceded her in death on May 23, 2018, after seventy years of a loving marriage.

Evelyn had been employed at a few local retail businesses, having worked at Stansfield’s Clothing, The Suit Shack, and Smith’s Jewelry Store.  She was a loving wife, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother, and a devoted homemaker for her family.  Some of her favorite activities were sewing and canning.  She and Ralph greatly enjoyed traveling to many places all over the United States.  Evelyn will be deeply missed by her family and friends.

Evelyn leaves behind two daughters, Brenda (Fred) Smith and Sandra (Gary) McIntire; grandchildren, Leanna (David) Bonczkowski, Aaron (Amanda) Smith, Stacy (Joel) Hefner, Sara (Josh) Galloway, Suzanne (Clayton) Meeks and Sabrina (David) Williams; great grandchildren, Amanda and Kayla Bonczkowski, Sophia Smith, Elizabeth, John and Anna Hefner, Norah and Eston Meeks, Ella and Henry Williams, Olivia Galloway; brothers, Les Wirth, Paul Wirth; special niece, Janice (Robert) Deisher.

Evelyn was preceded in death by her parents; husband; brothers, Lester, Raymond, and Ben A. Wirth; sister, Aileen Doty. 

Funeral Services will be 12:00 p.m., Saturday, January 15, 2022, in the Chapel of Keepes Funeral Home with Pastor Deron Colgan officiating.  Burial will follow at Highland Memorial Cemetery.

Family and friends may gather for a Visitation from 11:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m., Saturday, January 15, 2022, in the Chapel of Keepes Funeral Home. 

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

Memorial contributions may be made in Evelyn’s memory to Residential Hospice.  Envelopes will be at the funeral home or can be mailed to Keepes Funeral Home, 1500 N Cherry St., Mt. Carmel, Illinois 62863.

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

Druscilla Pettyjohn Legg, 89

Druscilla Pettyjohn Legg, 89, of Mount Carmel, passed away on Tuesday, January 11, 2022, at Oakview Nursing and Rehab, surrounded by the love of her family. She was born August 1, 1932, in Lawrence County, Illinois, the daughter of James and Vevia (Sebright) Westall.

Druscilla graduated from Sumner High School in 1950. She graduated from Oakland City College, receiving a BS Degree in Education in 1964, and a Masters Degree in Education from the University of Evansville in 1971. She enjoyed thirty-six years of teaching in Wabash District #348, considering the opportunity to teach a blessing.

Druscilla was a member of Parkview Christian Church. Throughout her life, she was active in many areas of church work, including teaching Sunday school for over thirty-five years.

Druscilla leaves behind two sons, David Pettyjohn and wife Alena, Jim Pettyjohn of Mount Carmel; two grandsons, Joey Pettyjohn and wife Lisha, Jay Pettyjohn and wife Amy; great-grandchildren, Noah, Jayden, Josie, Jake and Jep Pettyjohn; brothers, Michael (Joann) Westall of Larkspur, Colorado; sister, Pat (Dale) Gayer of Mount Carmel; five nephews and four nieces.

Druscilla was preceded in death by her parents; stepfather, Arther Cain; brother Kenneth and his wife, Faye Westall; and one nephew.

Graveside Services will be at 11:30 a.m., Friday, January 14, 2022, at Highland Memorial Cemetery with Pastor Mark Richison officiating.

Memorial contributions may be made in Druscilla’s memory to Parkview Caring Closet or to Hope Pregnancy and Resource Center. Envelopes will be at the cemetery, or may be mailed to Keepes Funeral Home, 1500 N Cherry St., Mt. Carmel, IL 62863.

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

Peggy J. Fournier, 82

Peggy J. Fournier, 82, of Mt. Carmel, Illinois, formerly of Ojai, California, passed away Wednesday, January 5, 2022, at Oakview Heights Continuous Care and Rehab Center.

She was born on June 22, 1939, the daughter of Roy and Mollie (Brown) Carlton in Ryan, OK; moving to Ojai, CA when she was 6 months old. She contracted Polio as a child, losing her hearing for a time but quickly learned sign language, a tool she used her entire life.

While her primary career was as a homemaker, Peggy was also an avid painter who especially liked charcoal and acrylics. She worked part-time in all sorts of jobs, everything from nurse to dog breeder to manicurist, but her favorite job was providing art therapy to autistic children. Peggy had a big heart and wanted to help others. She donated a lot of her time volunteering for the Salvation Army at Christmas.

Peggy married Robert P. Fournier on June 22, 1968, and he preceded her in death on February 6, 2021. Together they loved dancing, bowling, playing cards, and swimming with their kids at the beach. Moving to Mt. Carmel after retirement, they were able to build their dream home and enjoy small town living. They have three children; Sherrice (John) Weeces of Ojai, CA, Molly Krill (Nick) Schlesinger of Oxnard, CA, Rob (Jennifer) Fournier of Mt. Carmel; two grandchildren (Zoe and Nikolai); seven step-grandchildren and seven step-great grandchildren. Also surviving is her brother, Larry (Sheila) Carlton.

She will be remembered for her love of life, her family, and animals, for her funny and sly sense of humor, and for her ability to talk to anyone and make friends easily. Peggy was a loving Mom and Grandma, and her whole family will miss her dearly.

She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, brother, Terry Carlton and sister Patsy Sutton.

Per her wishes, she will be cremated. In lieu of flowers, please support your local animal shelter.

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

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

Bernard G. Wyatt, 88

Bernard G. Wyatt, 88, of Mt. Carmel, Illinois, passed away Thursday, December 30, 2021, peacefully at his residence.

He was born in Richland County, Illinois, to Everett A. and Lora A. (Gertsch) Wyatt. Bernard graduated high school in 1951. He proudly served in the U.S. Army. On March 11, 1956, Bernard married Mary Fay Ballard at the First Christian Church in Lawrenceville, Illinois. When she passed away in 2019, they had been married 63 years. Bernard was a faithful member of the First Christian Church Disciples of Christ for over 60 plus years, serving as a church elder for many years. He was a director of Mt. Carmel Day Care at the church.

Bernard owned and operated Wyatt Cabinet and Floor Covering and later Wyatt Building Supply with an expansion in 1973 of the present store location to include an arts and craft supply area, Western Union services, Radio Shack, and a present day metal salvage recycling business. Bernard was very active in the Mt. Carmel community. He was past commander of American Legion #423, past commander of AmVets, past president of Mt. Carmel Rotary Club and member of VFW Post #4276.

Left to cherish Bernard’s memory are his children, Julie (Dawson) Love of Biloxi, Mississippi, Marvin (Stacy) Wyatt of Mt. Carmel, Illinois, and Machel Reavill (Robert Jennings) of Olney, Illinois; grandchildren, Andrew Wyatt, Michael McCoy, Felica McCoy, Fachon McDonald and Matthew Reavill; great-grandchildren, Alayna Swanson, Abigail Zavala, Ethan McCoy, Levi McDonald, Aria McCoy, Zoey McCafferty, and Quintin McDonald. Bernard was the rock of our family and will be sadly missed by all that knew him.

Bernard is preceded in death by his parents, wife, and siblings William, James and Gene Wyatt and Shirley Moseley.

A Funeral Service will be held Saturday, January 15, 2022, at 2:00 p.m. at First Christian Church Disciples of Christ, 8th and Market Streets, Mt. Carmel, Illinois.  Burial will be in Haven Hill Cemetery, Olney, Illinois.  Visitation will be prior to the service from 1:00 until 2:00 p.m. 

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

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

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

Harry Ronald Minniear, 81

Harry Ronald Minniear, age 81, of Mt. Carmel, Illinois passed away on Monday, January 03, 2022 at Deaconess Gateway Hospital in Newburgh, Indiana. He was born on January 16, 1940 in Knox County, Indiana, the son of Alfred and Opal (Sanneman) Minniear. He married Barbara (Kiser) York Jones on November 18, 1988, and she survives.

Harry served in the United States Army for 12 years, which included the Vietnam War. He enjoyed his time in the Army and was proud to have served. After being discharged from the Army in 1968, Harry worked at Snap On Tools in Mt. Carmel, Illinois for 34 years. During his career at Snap On, Harry worked in the Machine Shop, Quality Control, and in the Tool Room. Harry’s hobbies included woodworking and he made several nice things over the years for family and friends. He also spent many hours researching family history. He was a member of the VFW in Mt. Carmel.

Preceding him in death were his parents and one brother, Dallas Minniear and wife, Nina.

Survivors include his wife, Barbara; three children, Harry ‘Bub’ Minniear and wife, Toni of Michigan, Kim Minniear of Mt. Carmel, Illinois, and Jill Minniear of Evansville, Indiana; two step-children, Andrea Allen and husband, Lavern of Evansville, Indiana and Kathy Robb and husband, Larry of New Jersey; two brothers, Jim Minniear of Lawrenceville, Illinois and Linden Minniear and wife, Nancy of Florida; five grandchildren, Tiffani Straw, Tara Peradotto-Zachary, Cody Peradotto, Matthew Minniear, and Meaghan Riddle; four step-grandchildren, Tyler Robb, Madison Robb, Kendra Myers, and Kayla Allen; and several great-grandchildren.

Funeral services will be conducted on Monday, January 10, 2022 at 11:00 AM CST at the Emmons-Macey & Steffey Funeral Home in Lawrenceville, Illinois. Visitation will be on Monday from 10:00 AM until the service hour of 11:00 AM CST at the funeral home. Burial will follow in the Gilead Cemetery, south of Sumner

Lynn Ellen Lockhart, 59

Lynn Ellen Lockhart, 59, of St. Louis, Missouri, formerly of Mount Carmel, Illinois, passed away on Sunday, January 2, 2022, at her residence. She was born on September 13, 1962, in Mount Carmel, the daughter of Ron Peach and Sandra Kay (Whitehead) Cunning.

Lynn worked as a waitress in several restaurants through the years. In her younger years, while living in Mount Carmel, she worked at Esther’s Pizza which was owned by her grandmother and a hometown favorite. Lynn always had a smile and loved to bring joy to others. She truly enjoyed visiting with friends, both current and from long ago, and her sincere kindness was felt by all. Lynn moved to St. Louis to be a loving caretaker for her mother, and they enjoyed watching the St. Louis Cardinals. Lynn loved her whole family dearly and her grandchildren held a special place in her heart. She will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

Lynn leaves behind two sons, Josh (Bonnie) Keepes, Nick Lockhart; two daughters, Lauren (Daniel) Berberich, Annie Russell; three grandchildren, Lyla Belle, Jack Andrew and Grady Joseph Keepes; father, Ron (Pat) Peach; mother, Sandra Kay Cunning; stepchildren, Jake Lockhart, Joe Lockhart, Jeremy Lockhart, Beth Buchanan, Sydney Peterson; brothers, Glen (Adrienne) Peach who was her twin, Jefery (Tammy) Peach; sisters, Rhonda (James) Lehleitner, Katie (Shad) Smith; several nieces, nephews, cousins and close friends.

Funeral Services will be at 1:00 p.m., Monday, January 10, 2022, in the Chapel of Keepes Funeral Home with Pastor Mark Richison officiating. Burial will follow at Highland Memorial Cemetery.

Family and friends may gather for a Visitation from 11:00 a.m.- 1:00 p.m., Monday, January 10, 2022 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 Lynn’s memory to Safe Haven, or the Lunch Wagon and will be accepted at the funeral home 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 Lynn’s tribute wall, leave condolences and purchase flowers for the Lockhart family, please visit www.keepesfuneralhome.com

Carol L. Merriel, 77

Carol L. Merriel, 77, of Mt. Carmel, Illinois, passed away Sunday, January 2, 2022, at Wabash General Hospital surrounded by the love of her family.

She was born February 17, 1944, in Princeton, Indiana, the daughter of Leo John and Agnes (Tougaw) Kieffer. Carol graduated from high school in Princeton. On February 10, 1961, she married Robert Leon Merriel in Princeton, Indiana.

Carol was a member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Mt. Carmel, Illinois. She owned and operated a day care for children. Carol enjoyed sewing (prayer blankets, quilts, costumes and kid’s clothes), working in her rose garden and preparing/helping with funeral dinners for the church. She was known for her tea, delicious chicken and noodles and her love of God. Carol’s greatest love was working and caring for children, family and pets, spending time with her grandchildren and cooking Sunday dinner for all who would show up.

Left to cherish Carol’s memory are her husband, Leon, of sixty years of marriage; children, John (Tammy) Merriel of Mt. Carmel, Illinois, Lisa Howell (Harvey) Lucedale of Mississippi, Kris (Rick) Leveque of Browns, Illinois, Janie (Jeff) Hiatt, Patric (Leah) Merriel, and Diane (Earnest) Bulin, all of Mt. Carmel, Illinois; grandchildren, Brandon (Sierra) Merriel, Caleb (Morgan) Merriel, Justin Merriel, Tyler Leveque, Adam (Kiera) Leveque, Lori (Colten) Cotner, Ryan (Brittany) Merriel, Hunter (Krystal) Merriel, Malachi, Rylee and Alex Bulin, Scott (Brittany) Hiatt, Jessica (David) Onyett and Jacob (Kelsie) Hiatt; twenty one great-grandchildren; brother Tom (Joanne) Kieffer; and special friend, Ellen Grounds.

Carol is preceded in death by her parents and a sister, Ann Jane Kight-Miller.

Visitation for Carol will be Thursday, January 6, 2022, from 10:00 a.m. until 12:00 p.m. with a Rosary Service at 11:45 a.m. at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, 125 W. 5th Street, Mt. Carmel, Illinois. Funeral Mass will be held at 12:00 p.m. following visitation. Burial will be at St. Mary’s Catholic Cemetery, Poplar & Landes Streets, Mt. Carmel, Illinois.

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

Memorials may be made to Operation Smile, 3641 Faculty Blvd., Virginia Beach, VA 23453. Envelopes will be available at the church or funeral home.

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

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

Lynn Ellen Lockhart, 59

Lynn Ellen Lockhart, 59, of St. Louis, Missouri, formerly of Mount Carmel, IL, passed away on Sunday, January 2, 2022 at her residence. Arrangements are pending at Keepes Funeral Home. When available the obituary can be viewed and online condolences can be made at www.KeepesFuneralHome.com

Norma Mary Catherine (Wernsing) Berberich, 91

Norma Mary Catherine (Wernsing) Berberich, 91 of Mount Carmel, Illinois, passed away peacefully Wednesday, December 29, 2021, at Oakview Nursing and Rehab, surrounded by the love of her family. She was born on April 30, 1930 in Teutopolis, Illinois, the daughter of Leo and Lillian (Probst) Wernsing. She married Ralph Martin Berberich on June 28, 1952, and they enjoyed twenty-three years together until his passing on November 20, 1975.

Norma grew up in rural Teutopolis, Illinois. After graduating from Teutopolis High School, Norma served as secretary to the principal of the school. Upon her marriage to Ralph, the couple made their home in rural Mount Carmel on the family farm. Norma was devoted to working right alongside her husband and caring for their family, home and farm. Having been widowed at a young age, Norma carried on, staying true to her priorities of “faith, family and farming”. Norma loved cooking and baking for her family. She enjoyed quilting, crocheting, sewing, and embroidering beautiful things for her family. Norma was an active member of Saint Sebastian Catholic Church where she served on the parish council and volunteered in many other capacities. She was also a member of the Homemakers Extension Association, a lifetime member of the Daughters of Isabella and served as a 4-H Leader. Her greatest joy was her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Norma is survived by her children, Ann (Arthur) Johnson of Evansville IN; Kay Smith, Ph.D. of St. Jacob IL; Jean (Donald) Morgan of East Lansing MI; Steven (Sue) Berberich,of Henry IL; Lee (Tamara) Berberich of Mount Carmel; Sue (Kevin) Pixley of Mount Carmel; James (Dana) Berberich of Dunwoody GA; Jill Cates of Evansville IN; Roy (Kelly) Berberich of Mount Carmel; Gwyn (Douglas) Smith of Effingham IL and Joan Henson of Mount Carmel; twenty-eight grandchildren, Brent Johnson, Hannah Johnson, Blake (Emily) Smith, Brandon (Charlotte) Smith, Jared (Katie) Smith, Tanner (Bethany) Smith, Tyler (Angela) Morgan, Bryce (Meghan) Morgan, Kacey Berberich, Jana (Matthew) Haskin, Austin Berberich, Matthew (Julie) Berberich, Joshua Berberich, Luke (Sydnee) Berberich, Jacob Pixley, Benjamin Pixley, Ryan Berberich, Ashley Berberich, Danyelle Cates, Taylor Cates, Drew Cates, Justin Berberich, Kristin Berberich, Callaway Smith, Olivya Smith, Alexis Myers, Logan Myers, Cade Henson; twenty-one great-grandchildren; sister, Betty Schaufler; sister-in-law, Liz Wernsing and many nieces and nephews.

Norma was preceded in death by her parents; husband; infant son, Mark Berberich; brother, Leroy Wernsing; and sister, Elvira Will.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held Saturday, January 8, 2022, 10:00 a.m. at Saint Sebastian Catholic Church, 4921 N. 1400 Boulevard, Mount Carmel IL with Father Robert Zwilling officiating. Burial will follow at Saint Sebastian Cemetery.

The family will receive guests Friday, January 7, 2022 beginning at 4:00 p.m.- 7:30 p.m. for Visitation in the Chapel of Keepes Funeral Home, 1500 North Cherry Street, Mt. Carmel, IL. A Rosary Service will follow at 7:30 p.m.

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

Memorial donations may be made in Norma’s memory to Saint Sebastian Catholic Church or St. Mary’s Catholic School Endowment Fund. Envelopes will be available or can be mailed in care of Keepes Funeral Home, 1500 North Cherry Street, Mt. Carmel, IL 62863.

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

Norma Mary Catherine (Wernsing) Berberich 91

Norma Mary Catherine (Wernsing) Berberich 91, of Mount Carmel, Illinois, passed away Wednesday, December 29, 2021, at Oakview Nursing and Rehab, surrounded by the love of her family. Arrangements are pending at Keepes Funeral Home. When available the obituary can be viewed and online condolences can be made at www.KeepesFuneralHome.com.

Debra Gay (Worth) Benham, 66

Debra Gay (Worth) Benham, 66, of Keensburg, Illinois, passed away Tuesday, December 28, 2021, at Wabash General Hospital, Mt. Carmel, Illinois.

 She was born November 16, 1955, the daughter of Robert Paul and Esther Lou (Lynch) Worth. Her father passed away and Debra was adopted by her mother’s second husband, Larry Gordon Benham. Debra graduated in the class of 1973 from Mt. Carmel High School.

 Debra was a member of the Church of the Nazarene in Mt. Carmel, Illinois. Debra enjoyed spending time with her family and friends.

 Left to cherish Debra’s memory are her children, Jennifer (Corbett Raines) Pratt, James (Amy) McClellan and Jacquelyn (Lionel Brown) McClellan; her father, Larry G. (Jane) Benham; grandchildren, Trae James, Lora LaCroix, Hunter Pratt, Abigail McClellan, Tristan Pratt, Conner Gentry, Madison Gentry, Kaitlyn McClellan, Draven Easley and Olivia Cormier; siblings, Robert Michael (Linda Dezern) Benham, Lisa (Bill) Smith, and Rev. Lori (Stephen) Tharp; special friend of 20 years, Nathan Daniels; and several cousins, nieces and nephews. 

Debra is preceded in death by her father, Robert Paul Worth, mother, Esther Lou (Lynch) Worth, and a granddaughter, Megan (McClellan) Hamilton.

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

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

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