Judy Maass, 78

Judy Maass, 78, of Nauvoo, Illinois, passed away Tuesday, April 4, 2023, at Southeast Iowa Regional Medical Center in West Burlington, Iowa. She was born on August 24, 1944, in Princeton, Indiana, the daughter of Robert and Vivian (Mastaw) Smith.

Judy was a very good cook, which was also her occupation over the years. She was a fan of the Chicago Cubs and enjoyed watching NASCAR. In her spare time, Judy enjoyed gardening, working in her flower beds and bird watching, especially the cardinal birds. She was a very giving person who loved to the fullest. Judy’s family and grandbabies brought special joy to her heart. When visiting back home in Mount Carmel, Judy attended Grace Baptist Church. She will be dearly missed by her family and friends.

Judy leaves behind her life partner, Carter Lear’; one son, Robert Lowery and wife Caren; two daughters, Vi-Linda Lowery, Ronda Cooper; grandchildren, William Ellis III, Ronda Cullison, Justin Lowery, Levi Glick, Chelsea Allen, Miryha Cooper, Jasmine Moore, Clyde Harper; several loved great-grandchildren; brothers, Mike (Tonia) Bobbitt, Edward (Shirley) Bobbitt, Rodger (Bonnie) Bobbitt; one sister, Sherry Bailey; half-sister, Myrna Moffitt; several nieces, nephews and cousins.

Judy was preceded in death by her parents, Robert Smith and Vivian and Lewis Bobbitt; one sister, Brenda Schmidt; brothers, Ronnie Smith, and Steve Bobbitt.

Family and friends are invited to gather for a Visitation from 4:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m., Saturday, April 8, 2023, in the Chapel of Keepes Funeral Home.

A family Burial Service will be held at Friendsville Cemetery at a later date.

Memorial Contributions may be made in Judy’s memory to the VFW Auxiliary. Envelopes will be available at the Funeral Home 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 Judy’s tribute wall, purchase flowers and leave condolences for her family, please visit www.keepesfuneralhome.com

Jackie Lee Hughes, age 81

Jackie Lee Hughes, age 81, of Indianapolis, Indiana passed away on Sunday, March 26, 2023. Jackie was born in Crown Hill, WV the son of the late Melvin and Elizabeth (Seacrest) Hughes.  He was an Iron Worker with Local 22 retiring after 29 years.  He was a member of the Masonic Lodge, American Legion Post 276 and Eagles Lodge #4167 in Beech Grove.  He loved to camp and fish, was an avid Indianapolis Colts and NASCAR fan.  He was preceded in death by his wife, Mary, and brothers David and Danny Hughes.

 Jackie is survived by his sons, Kenneth, Wayne and Christopher Hughes.

 Visitation will be held from 2:00 p.m. until 6:00 p.m., EST, Monday, April 3, 2023 at Little & Sons Funeral Home, 1301 Main Street, Beech Grove, Indiana with Rev. Ron Polly officiating.  A funeral service will follow at 6:00 p.m. with military rites immediately following the service.  Burial will be Tuesday, April 4, 2023 in the Allendale Cemetery in Allendale, Illinois at 2:00 p.m. CST.

 Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.littleandsonsbeechgrove.com for the Hughes family.

Larry A. Peach, 83

Larry A. Peach, 83, of Mount Carmel, Illinois passed away March 21, 2023, at his residence.

Services will be held Monday, March 27, 2023, at 3:00 p.m., in the Chapel of Short-Cunningham Funeral Home, with Bill Reed officiating. A burial will be held following the services at Highland Memorial Cemetery. Visitation will be Monday, March 27, 2023, from 1:00 p.m. until 3:00 p.m.

Larry was born to the late William and Myrtle (McClellan) Peach on February 25, 1940, in Owensville, Indiana. He was married to the late Linda (Reed) Peach on June 17, 1961. To this union three children were born: Bunnie (Jimmy) Peach of Mount Carmel, Illinois, Candy (Nick) Peach of Fort Branch, Indiana, and Lacy (Shawn Sutton) Peach of Mount Carmel, Illinois, who survive along with his siblings: Linda Spencer of Mount Carmel, Illinois, Joyce Talley of Mount Carmel, Illinois, and Gene Peach of Indianapolis, Indiana. Also surviving are his grandchildren: Samantha (Maisie) Peach, Ericka (Grant) Young, Taylor Clodfelter, Dillon Clodfelter, and Peyton Sutton. Along with his Great-Grandchild Kaiden Young. He was preceded in death by his parents, wife, sisters: Joan Hughes and Edith Julian, and brothers: Billy, Don, and Ron Peach.

During his life, Larry worked as a Farmer and for Snap-On Tools. He attended the Pentecostal Faith Assembly. Larry enjoyed fishing and cruising the bottoms in Indiana. He also enjoyed telling stories and being around his family and grandchildren.

Memorials can be made to Short-Cunningham Funeral Home to help the family with the cost of a monument. Envelopes will be available at the service, or you can send them to: PO Box 397, Mount Carmel, Illinois 62863. You can also contribute with the link provided: Larry A. Peach Monument

Condolences may be sent to www.short-cunninghamfh.com

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

Tracy L. McGill, 67

Tracy L. McGill, 67, of Mount Carmel, Illinois, passed away March 20, 2023, at his residence surrounded by his loving family.

A Celebration of Life will be held Friday, March 24, 2023, from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at Short-Cunningham Funeral Home Chapel. The family encourages casual dress and for people to share their memories of Tracy with them.

Tracy was born to the late Glenn C. and Marjory (Kennard) McGill on April 25, 1955. He graduated from Mount Carmel High School in 1973. He married Barbara Neikirk on September 16, 1983, in Mount Carmel, Illinois. To this union two children were born: Patrick (Selin) McGill of Houston, Texas, and Jonathan (Courtney) McGill of Olney, Illinois, who survive. Also surviving are his two sisters: Kay Althouse and twin sister Terry (Fred) Bender and his beloved grandchildren: Kinley Pflaum, Sophia McGill, Ryan McGill, and Ledger McGill on the way; and several nieces and nephews.

He was proceeded in death by his parents and brother Patrick McGill.

Tracy was raised in the Lutheran faith. He worked as a Service Tech for Pacific Press and Shear. Tracy was a member of the Mount Carmel Elks #715 and the Mount Carmel Eagles Aerie 3066. He never met a stranger and always had a kind word about everyone. Tracy enjoyed working on projects around the house. He was an avid Saint Louis Cardinals and Chicago Bears fan. Tracy loved spending time with his family and friends. His grandchildren opened a special place in his heart.

Memorials can be made to your charity of choice.

Condolences may be sent to www.short-cunninghamfh.com

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

Gerald L. Brooks, 73

Gerald L. Brooks, 73, of Mt. Carmel, Illinois, passed away peacefully at this home surrounded by his family when he went to meet Jesus, his Savior.

Gerald was born March 27, 1949, in Medford, Massachusetts, son of Albert Quincy and Ginette Favreaux Brooks.  He married Susan Wood in 1984.  Gerald was a member of Barney’s Prairie Church serving as teacher, deacon, elder and Chairman of the Board.  He attended Lick Prairie Christian Church for the past several years.

Gerald faithfully served his country for 21 years in the United States Coast Guard.  He was an instructor at the Federal Law Enforcement Training Center (FLETC) in Glenco, Georgia, for 20 years.  Gerald accepted Jesus Christ as his personal Lord and Savior at North Brunswick Christian Church and served as teacher to various ages.  He started the Brantley County, Georgia, Fire Department and served as chief for a number of years and wrote grants for obtaining trucks and equipment for various fire departments. 

Upon retirement from FLETC, Gerald and Susie renovated and moved to the family farm in Wabash County, Illinois.  He served as fire chief for the Allendale Volunteer Fire Department, coordinator for Wabash Emergency Management Agency, worked for the Wabash County Health Department, was a charter member of Rolling Thunder IL 3 Organization and served as Chairman of the Board.

Gerald was a past commander of the American Legion 423, member of AMVETS, and Coast Guard Investigative Association.  He used his faith as a support in the dark times of his life.  When his diagnosis was made, it could not have been bleaker.  However, the writing of the Apostle Paul in 2 Corinthians 5:1 gave him comfort, “For we know that if the earthly tent which is our house is torn down, we have a building from God, a house not made with hands, eternal in the Heavens.” 

The truth he lived by was, “Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.” John 15:13.  Gerald was truly an unsung hero who always wanted to serve others.

Left to cherish Gerald’s memory are his wife, Susie, and children, Amanda (Todd) Frenier, Erik Wood, Tom Wood, Rachel Galatas, James (Denise) Wood,  David (Rhonda) Wood, eleven grandchildren, one great granddaughter, his siblings Joelle, Carol (Bill) Davis, Patricia of California and Jakki (Lee) Ackman of Arizona, and nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his first wife, Lucy, and daughter Mollie Wood.

A private family graveside service will be held at the Friendsville Cemetery, Friday, March 24, 2023.

Memorials may be made to Lick Prairie Christian Church. Those donations can be made online at Gerald Brooks Memorial Donations , or mailed to Short-Cunningham Funeral Home, P.O. Box 397, Mt. Carmel, IL 62863.

Condolences may be sent to www.short-cunninghamfh.com
Short-Cunningham Funeral Home is honored to serve Gerald’s family.

Dara Marie Wetter, 56

Dara Marie Wetter, 56, of Mount Carmel, Illinois, passed away March 16, 2023, at her residence in Mount Carmel, Illinois.

 She was born January 19, 1967, in Mount Carmel, Illinois, to Paul LeRoy Wetter and Starretta (McCrary) Beal.

 Dara worked as a Nursing Home CNA for several years. She was very giving with an extremely big heart. Dara was very outgoing and could never meet a stranger. She was known as “Granny” by her grandkids and was loved fiercely by her family. One of her absolute favorite things to do was time spent with her beloved family and friends. Dara had a passion for Giraffes and loved collecting them.

 Left to cherish her memory is her daughter Jacquelyn Bregenzer, her siblings: Rickie (Ronnie) Bick, Jamie (Bill) Tolliver, Bradley Jay Greathouse, Robin Tinsley, and Danielle (Kevin) White, and three grandchildren: Allyson Flener, Kana Bregenzer, Jayke White, also surviving are several nieces, nephews and great nieces and great nephews.

 Preceding her in death are her parents.

 Visitation for friends and family will be held Saturday, March 25, 2023, from 2:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. in the Chapel at Short-Cunningham Funeral Home.

 Family requests donations may be made to help offset final expenses. Those donations can be made online at Dara Wetter Memorial Donations , or mailed to Short-Cunningham Funeral Home, P.O. Box 397 Mt. Carmel, IL 62863. Envelopes will also be available at her visitation.

https://www.short-cunninghamfh.com/payments

Condolences may be sent to www.short-cunninghamfh.com

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

Patricia K. "Pat" Lane, 71

 Patricia K. "Pat" Lane, 71, passed away Saturday March 11, 2023 at Baptist Health Floyd Hospital. She was the former Pat Renshaw, born in Carmi, IL. to the late Marjorie and James “Nick” Renshaw. After high school, Pat took cosmetology courses that led her to opening and operating the Hairport salon in Mt. Carmel, IL. for many years where many of her clients became her friends. She sold the business so her family could relocate to Georgetown, IN. for her husband Jim’s employment. She stayed in the hair business at Dillard’s Salon until switching her employment to L & D MailMasters until she retired in 2013. She relished the time in her earlier years when Jim’s military commitment allowed them to travel the United States and Europe.

     Pat was very family oriented and was a big supporter of her son Ty’s football games and later on loved attending her grandson Crew’s baseball and football games. She was an excellent cook and enjoyed hosting holiday gatherings, game nights, scrabble, pinochle and trivia. She enjoyed mystery novels, crossword and jigsaw puzzles, and she always found amusing greeting cards to send for birthdays and anniversaries.   

     After retirement, Pat loved winter season getaways on Caribbean cruises with her family and friends, the last one being about one year prior to her passing. She was a cancer warrior since receiving her diagnosis in October 2017.

     Pat is survived by her husband of 49 years: James W. Lane, her son: John Tyson Lane(Michelle Mattingly), her daughter: Shannon Neely(Mike), her brother: Nick Renshaw(Susan), her sister: Kathy Kronmiller, and her grandson: Crew Neely.

     A Celebration of Pat’s life is being planned at this time. 

     Memorial contributions in Pat’s name may be given to the Baptist Health Cancer Center(2210 Green Valley Rd. New Albany, IN. 47150)

     Her arrangements have been entrusted to the Naville & Seabrook Funeral Homes.

Melva Dolores (Davis) Parkhill, 81

Melva Dolores (Davis) Parkhill, 81, of Oblong, IL passed away on Friday March 10, 2023, at Oakview Nursing and Rehabilitation in Mt. Carmel, IL.

She was born in Indianapolis, IN on November 6, 1941 to Mel and Helen M. (Reynolds) Davis. On September 11, 2015, she married Rex Eugene Parkhill who survives.

Melva worked as a Dietary manager at several nursing homes, with most of her time spent at Rest Haven in Albion, IL. She attended Hardinville Christian Church in Hardinville, IL and Keensburg Christian Church in Keensburg, IL. She was a member of the Mt. Carmel High School class of 1959. She received her Associate degree in Office Management from Wabash Valley College in 1990. Melva enjoyed crocheting but most of all she enjoyed the time she spent with her children, grandchildren, great grandchildren, and great-great grandchildren.

She is survived by her husband Rex Parkhill, Oblong, IL; four sons and daughters-in-law Tom and Teresa Miller, Mt. Carmel, IL, William “Willie” and Connie Miller, Houston, TX, Doyle and Janene Miller, Ft. Branch, IN and Steve and Rita Miller, Princeton, IN; a daughter Lisa Allen, Cynthiana, IN. She is also survived by several grandchildren, great grandchildren, great-great grandchildren, step children, step grandchildren, step great grandchildren and step great-great grandchildren; and a brother and sister-in-law Richard and Jeanette Davis, Belmont, IL.

Preceding her in death were her parents, four brothers Raymond, Joe, Thomas and Ed Davis as well as an infant sister Esta Letta Davis.

Celebration of Melva’s Life will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Wednesday March 15, 2023, at Pulliam Funeral Home in Oblong, IL. Burial will follow in Palestine Cemetery, Palestine, IL. Visitation will be held Wednesday 11:00 a.m. until service time at the funeral home. The family requests that in lieu of flowers expressions of sympathy may take the form of a contribution to either the Albert Pujols Family Foundation for Down Syndrome in St. Louis, MO or the Gibson County Special Olympics. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home of may be mailed to Pulliam Funeral Home P.O. Box 121 Oblong, IL 62449. Condolences and or memories may be sent to the family at www.pulliamfuneralhomes.com.

Belinda Lea Harvey, 68

Belinda Lea Harvey, 68, of Mount Carmel, Illinois, passed away Tuesday, March 7, 2023, at Deaconess Gateway Hospital in Evansville, Indiana, surrounded by the love of her family. She was born on August 19, 1954, in Princeton, Indiana, the daughter of Samuel “Sam” and Helen (Stevens) Harvey.

Belinda earned an associate degree in accounting and worked in that field for many years. She loved to cook and while residing in Florida, she cooked for her church family. At the age of fifteen, Belinda began playing the organ in church which she greatly enjoyed. She also enjoyed spending some time in the garden. Being with her family was important to her. Belinda is a member of Gospel Kingdom Church and she will be missed by her family and friends.

Belinda leaves behind her mother, Helen; one brother, David Harvey and wife Becky of Owensville, IN.; two nephews, David (Shannon) Harvey, Devin (Brenda) Harvey; one niece, Jennifer Wampler.

Belinda was preceded in death by her father.

Family and friends are invited to gather for a Visitation from 10:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m., Friday, March 10, 2023, at Gospel Kingdom Church.

Funeral Services will begin at 11:30 a.m., Friday, March 10, 2023 at Gospel Kingdom Church with Brother Brandon Hodgson officiating. A Private Burial will follow at Sunset Memorial Park in Evansville, Indiana.

Memorial Contributions may be made in Belinda’s memory to Gospel Kingdom Church. Envelopes will be available at the church 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 Belinda’s tribute wall, purchase flowers and leave condolences for the Harvey family, please visit www.keepesfuneralhome.com

Terry Edmondson, 72

Terry Edmondson, 72, of Mount Carmel, Illinois, passed away Wednesday, March 1, 2023, at home with her family by her side.  She was born on November 25, 1950, in Fairfield, Illinois, the daughter of Edolyn (Gash) Elliott and Jack Elliott.

Terry was proud to have attained an Associates Degree and was employed in health care as a Direct Support Specialist.  She was a hard worker and took the role of caretaker to heart.  In her spare time, she enjoyed sewing. Terry had a love for animals, especially her dog Marco.  Spending time with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren brought her great joy.  Terry will be dearly missed by her family and friends.

Terry leaves behind three daughters, Kristel Lopez, Karabeth Edmondson, and Angie Tate; grandchildren, Sierra Daniels, Krystina Bredemeier, Malachai Lloyd, Kyla Pollard, and Kyle Pollard; five great-grandchildren; sister, Tonny Orr; niece, Mandy Hall.

Terry was preceded in death by her parents; sister, Summer Elliott-Kendrick; brother, Jack “J” Elliott; nephews, Scott Orr, and Jordan Hall.

Graveside Services will be at 2:00 p.m., Tuesday, March 7, 2023 at Highland Memorial Cemetery with Pastor Darrel Thompson officiating.

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

William Ray Beesley, 96

William Ray Beesley, 96, of Mt. Juliet, Tennessee, formerly of Mt. Carmel, Illinois, passed away March 1, 2023, at Bethel Manor in Evansville, Indiana.

He was born August 8, 1926, in Orio, Illinois to Raymond Charles and Henrietta H. (Risley) Beesley. In 1944 he graduated from Allendale High School in Allendale, Illinois. He married Patricia Ann Brothers June 24, 1951, at the First Christian Church Disciples of Christ in Mt. Carmel, Illinois. They were married for 70 years.

William was a well-respected businessman. He worked as a Retail Merchant for Index Notion Company for 35 years. He then managed Ben Franklin. Followed by working for Altadonna IGA until his retirement. He was an original member of the WAVE Board, a member of the Kiwanis Club, a lifetime member of the Mt. Carmel Elks Lodge 715. He was an avid bowler, AVID fan of the St. Louis Cardinals, Mt. Carmel Aces Football, and WVC Warriors Men and Women’s Basketball. He loved playing pool with his merchant buddies, doing yard work and planting flowers. He truly enjoyed putting up his Christmas Tree lights starting in October. He loved word search puzzles and his family truly believes he would have made the Guinness Book of World Records had he just kept all his books. He was the World’s Best Teaser and had the most infectious smile that will truly be missed. He and his wife enjoyed square dancing in their younger years. They also enjoyed traveling and making scrapbooks of places they visited.

Left to cherish William’s memory are his daughters; Linda (Stuart) Oberg, of Evansville, Indiana, and Lisa (Phil) Tucker, of Mt. Juliet, Tennessee, grandchildren: Nathan (Shanna) Groeninger, Brandon (Libby) Tucker, Bryce (Abbey) Tucker, Brett (Patrick) Penner, great-grandchildren: Addison Scheessele, Leo Scheessele, Layla Grace Groeninger, Cameron Keller, and Baby to be Tucker.

Visitation will be held Tuesday, March 7, 2023, from 12:00 p.m. until 2:00 p.m., Funeral Service to follow at 2:00 p.m. in the Chapel of Short-Cunningham Funeral Home. Burial to follow at Highland Memorial Cemetery in Mt. Carmel, Illinois.

Memorials can be made to the First Christian Church Disciples of Christ, 803 N Market St., Mt. Carmel, Illinois 62863, or envelopes will be available at the service.

Condolences may be sent to www.short-cunninghamfh.com

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

Ronald E. Fitch, age 69

Ronald E. Fitch, age 69, of Princeton, Indiana, formerly of Mount Carmel, Illinois, passed away February 16, 2023, on the Island of St. John’s in the Virgin Islands. He was born March 7, 1953 in Wayne County to John and Beulah (Hough) Fitch.

 Ronald worked for Snap-On Tools for 28 years. After they closed in 2004 he worked for McClellan’s at Toyota and later went to work for Tracy Electric in Lawrenceville, Illinois where he retired. He was a member of the St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Mount Carmel, Illinois.

 Ronald was always a person you could count on. He loved his family, friends, grandkids, and his little great grandkids. If you needed something fixed, he was the one you could call to help.  He always wanted to go on a cruise and to parasail. He got to do both and truly enjoyed every minute of it. He was kind, giving, hardworking, and all-around great guy.

 Survivors include his former wife/friend Cindy Hills, daughter Shibonne (Tim) Jacobson of Somerset, Wisconsin, Grandkids: Lexis Fitch of Dekalb, Illinois, Tavis (Rashell Alka) Burton of Albion, Illinois, Tyler (Heather) Burton of Fort Branch, Indiana, Austi (Jacob Rider) Jacobson of Glenwood City, Wisconsin, and Kenny Campbell Jr of Mobile, Alabama. Great Grandkids: Layla Lee, Khiyah Burton, Marlee Alka, and Miles Burton. Sisters; Karen Kilby of Kinmundy, Illinois, and Barbara (David) Dennis of Flora, Illinois, along with several nieces and nephews. And of course, his best friend and companion Brick his dog.

 Preceding him in death were his parents, daughter Shannon Fitch Campbell, brothers, Roy Dale, Lowell, Raymond, Jerry, Lyle, David, and Kenny. Sisters-in-laws, Dianne Fitch, and Barbara Fitch. Brother-in-law Bob Kilby, nephew Jeff Kilby, and niece Melissa Cooper.

Visitation will be Monday, March 6, 2023, from 5:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. and from 9:00 am. until the time of service on Tuesday. With funeral mass at 10:00 a.m. at St. Mary’s Church.  Burial will be at the St. Mary’s Cemetery, Mount Carmel, Illinois.

 Memorials can be made to the Great-grandchildren’s College Fund in care of Short-Cunningham Funeral Home, PO Box 397 Mount Carmel, Illinois 62863, envelopes will also be available at the service.

 Condolences may be sent to www.short-cunninghamfh.com

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

Donald Ralph Peach, 84

Donald Ralph Peach, 84, of Mount Carmel, Illinois, passed away Monday, February 27, 2023, at River Oaks Health Campus in Princeton, Indiana.  He was born on April 16, 1938, in Owensville, Indiana, the son of William H. and Myrtle A. (McClellan) Peach.  He married Shirley Ann Fischer, and she preceded him in death on July 22, 1995.

 Don was a life-long farmer until his retirement in the late 1990’s.  He was a Mount Carmel Aces football fan and enjoyed cheering on his grandchildren in whatever sports they were involved in.  Don often took the grandchildren out for dinner, which they all enjoyed.  He will be dearly missed by his family and friends.

 Don leaves behind his son, Darren Peach, and wife Paula; grandsons, Dalton Peach, Daxton Peach, and wife Mary Lee; granddaughter, Gabrielle Peach; brothers, Larry Peach, Gene (Alice) Peach; sisters, Linda Spencer, Joyce Talley; several nieces and nephews.

 Don was preceded in death by his parents, beloved wife, Shirley; sisters, Joan Hughes, Edith Julian; brothers, Ron, and Billy Peach.

 Family and friends are invited to gather for a Visitation from 12:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m., Monday, March 6, 2023, in the Chapel of Keepes Funeral Home.

 Funeral Services will be at 2:00 p.m., Monday, March 6, 2023, in the Chapel of Keepes Funeral Home with Pastor Mark Richison officiating.  Burial will follow at Highland Memorial Cemetery.

 Memorial contributions may be made in Don’s memory to Parkview Christian Church.

Envelopes will be at the funeral home or may be mailed to Keepes Funeral Home, 1500 North Cherry Street, Mount Carmel, IL 62863.

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

Charles William “Bill” Stansfield, 72

Charles William “Bill” Stansfield, 72, of Mount Carmel, Illinois, passed away on Friday, February 24, 2023, at home, surrounded by his loving family.  He was born on November 19, 1950, in Gibson County, Indiana, the son of Charles R. and Margaret A. (Hosbach) Stansfield.  Bill married Paula Baker on August 8, 2012, and together they celebrated ten years of marriage. 

 Bill faithfully served his country in United States Navy. In his working years he was employed as a correctional officer, over the road and local truck driver. Bill was interested in motorcycles and trains. He was a fan of wrestling and watching his grandchildren wrestle was a special delight to him. He loved being around family, sitting on his porch drinking coffee, and lovingly pestering his wife Paula, 24/7. Bill was a kind man, a friend to many, and loved his family. He will be dearly missed by family and friends.  

 Bill leaves behind his loving wife, Paula; children, Mike Stansfield, William Stansfield and wife Mary, Tony Calverley and wife Stephanie, Stacy Wood and husband Mitch; 

grandchildren, Mackenzie Hoxsey, Landun Stansfield, Shaelynn Stansfield, Avery and Alex Calverley, Aaron, Chevvy, and Jorden Wood; siblings, Pete (Barb) Stansfield, Jackie Stansfield, Catherine “Penny” Stansfield, and James (Pat) Stansfield.   

Bill was preceded in death by his parents; and one son Jason Stansfield. 

 Family and friends are invited to gather for a Visitation from 11:00 a.m. -1:00 p.m., Wednesday, March 1, 2023, in the Chapel of Keepes Funeral Home. 

 Funeral Services will be at 1:00 p.m., Wednesday, March 1, 2023, with Gregory Wilkinson officiating.  Burial will follow at Highland Memorial Cemetery, with Full Military Honors. 

 Memorial contributions may be made in Bill’s memory to Community Children’s Impact, or the Lunch Wagon. Envelopes will be at the funeral home or may be mailed to Keepes Funeral Home, 1500 North Cherry Street, Mount Carmel, IL 62863. 

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

Jon Majors, 60

Jon Majors, 60, of Mount Carmel, Illinois, passed away Monday, February 20, 2023, at home.  He was born on July 29, 1962, in Herlong, California, the son of Homer L. and D’Ella (Meyer) Majors.   

 Jon was a talented carpenter and was the leader of his crew.  In his spare time, he enjoyed cooking and was an excellent chef.  Jon was an outdoorsman who liked hunting, fishing, and gardening.  He was very kind and had a great sense of humor.  Jon was a good father, always ready to lend a helping hand to his children.  He was thought of as a father to many others as well.  Jon was raised in the Asberry Chapel Church.  He loved his family dearly and will be missed by his family and many friends.  

 Jon leaves behind his mother; sons, Jon (Gracie) Majors, Jr., Jerod (Brianna) Majors, Blake (Zoey) Randolph; one daughter, Emiline (Bryant) Scott; five grandchildren, Kalynne, Isabelle, Zemira, Deklan and Lavinia; former wife, Larietta Majors; three brothers, Les (Mary) Majors, Robert (Carolyn) Majors, Ernie Majors; two sisters, Linda (Robert) Compton and Cathy (Jeremy) Dooley; girlfriend, Cathy Knapp; many loved nieces, nephews and cousins. 

 Jon was preceded in death by his father; brother, Phil Majors; sister, Julie Majors; and sister-in-law, Mindy Majors. 

 Graveside Services were at 11:00 a.m., Saturday, February 25, 2023, at Hallock Cemetery, North 1600 Blvd., in rural Wabash County Illinois.  

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

LaVerne I. Belton, 96

LaVerne I. Belton, 96 years, and 10 months, of Mount Carmel, Illinois, passed away Friday, February 17, 2023, at Deaconess Midtown, in Evansville, Indiana.

She was born April 23, 1926, in Browns, Illinois, to Frank W. Schonaman and Selma A. Webking, LaVerne graduated High School and Beauty School, she was married to her late husband Orville A. “Jay” Belton, June 2, 1956, in Saint Ann, Missouri.

LaVerne worked as a Beautician for 30 years. She loved reading and working puzzles. She thoroughly enjoyed watching sunrises and sunsets. Laverne loved the way nature changes especially when she could watch the butterflies in her garden.

She is survived by her chosen daughter Rhonda Jo Skees Baker, husband Bob Baker, and her grandson Cody Skees of Mount Carmel, Illinois and three grandsons Todd Andrew Barker, Christopher David Brandebourg, and Benjamin Levi Brandebourg; her great-grandchildren Madyline Elizabeth, Deseria Star, Devin Gage, and Emery Levi, her daughter in laws Pat Barker and Pam Culler.

Preceding her in death are her parents, husband, brother Frank W. Schonaman, and son Frank David Brandebourg.

Visitation will be held Friday, February 24, 2023, from 2:00 p.m. until Service at 3:00 p.m. in the Chapel of Short-Cunningham Funeral Home and burial will be at Mt. Lebanon Cemetery in St. Ann, Missouri.

Memorials can be made out to Hope Lutheran Church, 1512 N Cherry St., Mount Carmel, Illinois 62863. Envelopes will be available at the service.

Condolences may be sent to www.short-cunninghamfh.com Short-Cunningham Funeral Home is honored to serve LaVerne’s famil

James V. Hoffman, age 64

James V. Hoffman, age 64, of Lawrenceville, Illinois passed away on Monday, February 20, 2023 at the Good Samaritan Hospital in Vincennes, Indiana. He was born on April 01, 1958 in Omaha, Nebraska, the son of Norman H. and Ruth E. (Peel) Hoffman. He married Teresa Kemper on May 28, 1977, and she survives.

James worked for Jones and Sons, and was a member of the Central Christian Church. He enjoyed spending time with his family, while playing cards, board games, and video games. He also enjoyed gardening, fishing, and mushroom hunting, but his passion was golfing.

Preceding him in death were his parents.

Survivors include his wife, Teresa; two children, Jami Kyffin and husband, Brian of Livingston, Tennessee and Joni Kleinschmidt and husband, Andrew of Mt. Carmel, Illinois; one sister, Karen Farrar of Murfreesboro, Tennessee; one nephew, Manuel Farrar of Tennessee; and four grandchildren, Isabella, Angelina, Chandler, and Chase

Funeral services will be conducted on Thursday, February 23, 2023 at 10:00 AM CST at the Emmons-Macey & Steffey Funeral Home in Lawrenceville, Illinois. There will be no visitation. Burial will be in the Lawrenceville City Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to: Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, Re: Chase’s Pace at 8445 Keystone Crossing, Suite 135 in Indianapolis, Indiana 46240.

Please visit www.emmonsmaceysteffey.com to view the tribute and to send condolences.

Florice Claudine (Claudia) Bryant, 89

Florice Claudine (Claudia) Bryant, 89, of Mount Carmel, Illinois, passed away February 14, 2023, at Wabash General Hospital, in Mount Carmel, Illinois.

She was born May 21, 1933, in Mount Carmel, Illinois, to Royal and Capitola (Jones) Toombs, stepmother, Dora (Spond) Toombs. Her mother passed away when she was very young and she was raised by her father’s sister, Flossie (Toombs) Woods and John Woods. Claudia graduated from Mount Carmel High School in 1952, she married the love of her life Doyle Denver Bryant on December 6, 1952, in Mount Carmel, Illinois.

Claudia worked at the Phone Company as a Switchboard Operator. She later worked for Pacific Press and Shear for several years as a Receptionist and later in the Payroll Department, retiring in 1985. She made many lifelong friends while working there. Claudia was a member of the First General Baptist Church in Mount Carmel, Illinois for 80 plus years, where she was active in the Women’s Mission Society and also sang in the choir and played piano.

Early in life, Claudia and her sweetheart, Doyle enjoyed roller skating, and belonged to a Square Dance Club. Claudia also took up crocheting and enjoyed preparing holiday dinners for the family. They traveled to see the grandchildren participate in various sports and competitions and took short trips with family and friends. Babysitting and spoiling the grandchildren was their favorite past time. Regularly Claudia enjoyed luncheons with ladies from church and coworkers from the Phone Company.

Claudia moved to the Villas of Holly Brook in May 2022. There she reconnected with friends from high school and some coworkers. She enjoyed dining with “her girls” at the center and playing Bingo, and fell in love with the staff at Holly Brook.

Left to Cherish Claudia’s Memory are her two daughters: Deb (Dave) Kirk of Melbourne, FL, and Leesa Guisewite (Fiancé Dennis Bane) of Patoka, IN. Her five grandchildren: Kristi (Chad) Qualls of Evansville, IN, Ryan (Ashley) Kirk of Prairie Village, KS, Derek (Cassandra) Guisewite of Mt. Carmel, IL, Kassi (Chris) Virgin of Evansville, IN, Amanda Guisewite of Ft. Branch, IN and friend Beth Hatton. Great-Grandchildren: Dylan & Jillian Qualls of Evansville, IN, Bently Guisewite of Ft. Branch, IN, Brantley, Colt and Payton Guisewite of Mt. Carmel, IL. Nieces and nephews: Taunya Campbell, Maxine Rosignol, Carol Lee Spond, Harold Spond, Delores Peach, Susie Taylor.

Claudia had several sisters-in-law, brothers-in-law, aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, and cousins with whom she was close.

 Preceding her in death are her parents, brother Bobby Toombs, two sisters, Frieda June DeGenerro and Berneathia Hayes, and Norma Jean Toombs.

 Visitation will be held in the Chapel of Short-Cunningham Funeral Home Tuesday, February 21, 2023, from 12:00 p.m. until the service following at 2:00 p.m.  Following the service, she will be laid to rest at Highland Memorial Cemetery.

 Memorials can be made to First General Baptist Church, 120 W 12th St., Mount Carmel, Illinois 62863. There will also be envelopes available at the service.

 Condolences may be sent to www.short-cunninghamfh.com

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

Darlene S. “Gertie” Askren, 74

Darlene S. “Gertie” Askren, 74, of Mount Carmel, Illinois, passed away Wednesday, February 15, 2023, at Oakview Nursing and Rehab surrounded by the love of her family. She was born on July 1, 1948, the daughter of Linden and Pearl (Lambert) Reed.  She married Gerald Lee Askren on April 5,1968 and together they enjoyed thirty-two years of marriage until his passing on September 16, 2000.  

Darlene devoted her life to her family and homemaking.  She liked John Deere tractors and enjoyed collecting them.  Darlene loved her family dearly and visits with them brought her great joy.  She was a member of the Pentecostal Faith Assembly Church and will be dearly missed by all who knew her.

Darlene leaves behind two sons, Johnny Askren and wife Candy, Tommy Askren; five grandchildren, Halie, Katie, Hanna, Johnny Jr., and Matthew Askren; step-grandchildren, Keisha Wilson, Shantel Reed; siblings, Charlotte Lofton and husband Dick, Brenda Dill and husband Jim, Bill Reed and wife Debbie, and David Reed; many loved nieces and nephews.

Darlene was preceded in death by her parents; husband; daughter, Jerri Lynn Askren; daughter-in-law, Kelly Askren; siblings, Richard Reed, Linden Reed, Linda Peach, Scott Reed, and Jeffrey Reed. 

Family and friends are invited to gather for a Visitationfrom 11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m., Saturday, February 18, 2023, in the Chapel of Keepes Funeral Home.  

Funeral Services will be at 12:00 p.m., Saturday, February 18, 2023 in the Chapel of Keepes Funeral Home with Brother Bill Reed officiating.  Burial will follow at Highland Memorial Cemetery where Darlene will be laid to rest beside her beloved husband and daughter.

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

Bonita “Kay” Prosise, 80

Bonita “Kay” Prosise, 80, of Mount Carmel, Illinois, passed away on Monday, February 12, 2023, at Deaconess Midtown Hospital, in Evansville, Indiana. She was born on April 23, 1942, in East St. Louis, Illinois, the daughter of William and June (Van Matre) Soden, and raised by her stepfather, Gene Dyehouse. She married Jim Prosise and he preceded her in death in 2007.

Kay devoted her life to being a homemaker. In her spare time, she enjoyed crafting and crocheting. In their younger years, she and Jim enjoyed camping at Kentucky Lake. Kay especially loved her family and being with her grandkids. She will be dearly missed by her family and friends.

Kay leaves behind five sons; Mark (Trenia) Wagner, Billy Wagner, Kevin (Kelly) Wagner, Terry (Ruth) Prosise, and Tim (Tonya) Prosise; two daughters, Sherry Buckman, and Sheila Welch; many loved grandchildren and great-grandchildren; one sister, Carolyn Lowe.

Kay was preceded in death by her parents; husband; sons, Scott Wagner, and Shaun Prosise; daughters, Kelly Harrelson, and Kristi Lofton; brothers, Mike Dyehouse, Colin, Joe, and Gary Soden; one sister, Judy Esparza.

In keeping with Kay’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 Kay’s tribute wall, and leave condolences for her family, please visit www.keepesfuneralhome.com