Mary Frances Raber, 78

Mary Frances Raber, 78, of Bellmont, Illinois, passed away Monday, April 22, 2024, at Linda E. White Hospice House in Evansville, Indiana, surrounded by her loving family.  She was born on October 7, 1945, in Olney, Illinois, the daughter of Frank M. and Iris E. (Smith) Peter.  She married Dennis W. Raber on July 3, 1965, and they have celebrated fifty-eight years of marriage, centered around their faith and family.

 Francy worked as a beautician for fifty-five years.  She loved fishing, quilting and trips to Branson Missouri with Dennis.  Francy helped to raise some of her nieces and nephews while their parents worked.  She was an active member of St. Sebastian Catholic Church where she sang in the choir, taught classes after Sunday Mass and willingly helped out wherever needed.  Francy was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother.  Her presence on this earth will be dearly missed by all who knew her. 

 Francy leaves behind her beloved husband, Dennis; two sons, Rodney Raber, Charles Raber; two daughters, Vera Jane Thompson and husband Robie, Michelle Dickey and husband Mark; grandchildren, Cassandra (CJ) Malloy, Trever Raber, Grace Raber, Miranda Raber, Austin (Anna) Thompson, Ashton Thompson, Dalton Dickey; three great-grandsons and another on the way; siblings, Michael (Barbara) Peter, Martin (Phyllis) Peter, Vera (David) Dobbs, Herman Peter, Reverand Patrick Peter, Elizabeth  Richardson, Sally (Charlie) Witonis, David (Laura) Peter, and Vesta (Steve) Rigg;  many loved nieces, nephews and cousins.

 Francy was preceded in death by her parents; one brother-in-law, Ed Richardson.

 Family and friends are invited to gather for a Visitation from 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. Friday, April 26, 2024, at St. Sebastian Catholic Church.

 A Mass of Christian Burial will be at 12:00 p.m., Friday, April 26, 2024, at St. Sebastian Catholic Church with Father Patrick Peter and Father Robert Zwilling as co-celebrants. 

 Memorial contributions may be made in Francy’s memory to Linda E. White Hospice House, or St. Sebastian Catholic Church.  Envelopes will be at the church or can be mailed to Keepes Funeral Home, 1500 North Cherry Street, Mount Carmel, IL 62863.

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

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Patricia R. “Patty” Partee, 91

Patricia R. “Patty” Partee, 91, of Mt. Carmel, Illinois, peacefully passed away Saturday, April 20, 2024, at her daughter’s home surrounded by her loving family.

 Services will be held Thursday, April 25, 2024, at 1:00 p.m. in the Chapel of Short-Cunningham Funeral Home following with burial next to her husband at Highland Memorial Cemetery.

 The visitation will be on Wednesday, April 24, 2024, from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m. at Short Funeral Home.

 Patty was born February 13, 1933, to Ray and Ruth White Lydick in Chelsea, Oklahoma. She married Stephen F. Partee July 7, 1966 at the Zion Lutheran Church in Mt. Carmel. They happily enjoyed 46 years together.

 She was a lifetime member of Gold Wing Road Riders Association. She loved her time motorcycle riding and with her husband touring the United States including Alaska. They spent many summers camping at Conservation Lake.

 Those left to cherish her memory include her daughters, Christine Rosignol and Cathy (Darrick) Ruth; grandchildren Camron (Bethany) Partee, Alex (Chad) Whitmer, Paul Ruth (Katie Smith), Wade Ruth (Brynna Cropper); great grandchildren, Lillian Partee, Jayden Partee; son-in-law Edward Wood and several nieces and nephews.

 Patty was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Stephen; daughter, Vicki Wood; brothers, Paul Lydick, Laurl Lydick and sister, Norine Abel.

 She was a member of Cowling Free Methodist Church; she worked as a secretary in the oil industry. In her spare time, she enjoyed bowling, rooting for the St. Louis Cardinals, painting, and crocheting. She loved her animals, especially her dogs. You could often find her sitting at her kitchen table working crossword puzzles and drinking coffee.

 Contributions in Patty’s memory can be made to Wabash County Shelter Buddies, 11336 N 1550 Blvd, Mt. Carmel, IL 62863.

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

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

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William Ray Strine, 80

William Ray Strine, 80, of West Salem, Illinois, passed away peacefully on Sunday, April 21, 2024 at his residence surrounded by the love of his family.  He was born on January 16, 1944, at home in West Salem, IL, the son of Merrel and Lucille (Marx) Strine.  Bill married Kathy E. Spade on April 3, 1966 and together they enjoyed fifty-five years of marriage until her passing on September 6, 2021.

Bill spent his whole life farming and truly enjoyed working his jobs.  He loved talking long drives; and could often be found at the auto parts store or checking the fields in the county.  After a long day, Bill enjoyed a good nap in his truck.  Bill loved his family and treasured time spent with them.  He loved milking cows and caring for the cats around the farm.  He was a member of Frog Eye Church in West Salem.  Bill will be deeply missed by his family and friends.

Bill will be remembered by his children, Tom Strine, Jenny Strine and Terry (Leah) Strine all of West Salem; brother, Jim (Kelley) Strine; sister, Joanne (Bruce) Stickers; many loved nieces, nephews and cousins.

Bill was preceded in death by his parents; wife; and sister, Beverly Higgins.

Family and friends are invited to gather for a Visitation from 11:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m., Wednesday, May 1, 2024 at Community Church of God, 1532 College Drive, Mount Carmel, IL.

A Celebration of Life will be held at 12:00 p.m., Wednesday, May 1, 2024 at the Community Church of God.

Memorial contributions may be made in Bill’s memory to Frog Eye Church in West Salem, IL.  Envelopes will be at the Church or can be mailed to Keepes Funeral Home, 1500 North Cherry Street, Mount Carmel, IL 62863.

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

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Pansy Charlene Woods, 84

Pansy Charlene Woods, 84, of Mt. Carmel, Illinois passed away Tuesday, April 16, 2024 at her home surrounded by her loving family.

Funeral services for Pansy will be Friday, April 19, 2024 at 1:00 p.m. in the Chapel of Short Cunningham Funeral Home, Mt. Carmel. Burial in Lick Prairie Cemetery will follow the service.

Visitation for family and friends will be Friday, April 19, 2024 beginning at 11:00 a.m. until the time of the service.

Pansy was born January 10, 1940 to Charley and Bessie Reynolds Duggan in Lutie, Lantimer County, Oklahoma. She married Neal G. Woods on July 23, 1974, in Wabash County, Illinois. They had fifty years together.

She was an Obstetric Tech and CNA much of her working life. She worked at the “old” Wabash General Hospital for twelve years, delivering babies including her first grandchild. She was a caregiver to many loved ones in Mt. Carmel and surrounding towns.

Those left to cherish her memory include her husband, Neal; her children, John E. Woods and Pamela Woods (Law) Kruckeberg; seven grandchildren Angela (Bob) King, Logan (Emily) Banks, Cainan Banks, Jaxon Schanzle, Vincent Carroll-Woods, Roman and Katherine Kruckeberg; great grandchildren, Jorden King, Robert King, Summer Woods, and Bentley Woods.

She was a member of Lick Prairie Christian Church. She loved camping and watching her grand and great grandchildren. Cooking for her family was a special time for her. Pansy’s favorite pastime was spending time traveling to Maine and trips to visit family in New Mexico and Oklahoma.

She was preceded in death by her parents, son, Charley R. Wilson; great grandson, River King; siblings Bobby Duggan, Howard Duggan, and Violet Thomas.

Donations in her memory can be made to Carle Hospice of Olney, Illinois.

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

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

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Christopher D. Nunley, 47

Christopher D. Nunley, 47, of Mount Carmel, Illinois, passed away Sunday, April 14, 2024, at Ascension St. Vincent Hospital in Evansville, Indiana, surrounded by the love of his family.  He was born on February 27, 1977, in Eldorado, Illinois. 

Chris was a boilermaker/operator for Zachary at Gibson Station over twenty-five years.  He was an avid St. Louis Cardinals fan and enjoyed playing chess, listening to music, playing his guitar and singing karaoke.  Chris also loved flowers and helping his mother in her garden.  He will be dearly missed by his family and friends.

Chris leaves behind his son, Levi Christopher Nunley; parents, Cindy (Wes) Yarbor, and Mike (Debbie) Nunley; sister, Amy (Rob) Russell; nephew, Brady Kidd; step brother, Cullen Cundiff; and special friend, Karin Wiggins. 

Chris was preceded in death by his grandparents, Ivan & Irma Cox, Herbert, and Gertrude Nunley Sr.; uncles, Michael Cox, Herbert Nunley Jr., and Rodney Nunley. 

A Celebration of Life will be planned for a later date.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Cindy Yarbor to help offset final expenses.  Envelopes can be mailed to Keepes Funeral Home, 1500 North Cherry Street, Mount Carmel, IL 62863.

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

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Daniel Coy Short, 46

Daniel Coy Short, 46, of Mount Carmel, Illinois, passed away Saturday, April 13, 2024 at Ascension St. Vincent Hospital in Evansville, Indiana, surrounded by his loving family. He was born on December 21, 1977 in Mt. Carmel, the son of Joy (Short) Treece. He married Shauna Hortin on September 18, 1999 and they had thirty years together.

Coy was a very hard worker at any and every job he tackled. He enjoyed being outdoors, working with his hands, and being a help to others. Coy’s daughter and granddaughters were the center of his world, and the part of his life he was the proudest of. Shantel and the girls always knew they could count on him when they needed some help. He was proud of his role as “Poppy”. Coy was a volunteer with the VFW Military Honor Guard. He will be dearly missed by his family and friends.

Coy leaves behind his daughter, Shantel Graef; two precious granddaughters, Guinevere and Sophia Graef; mother and stepfather, Joy and Frank Treece; sisters, Shambrey Treece, Mellisa (Shad) White, Kassandra (Robert) Redden; friend and former wife, Shauna Short; several loved nieces, nephews and cousins.

Coy was preceded in death by his father; maternal grandparents, Marcella and Tommie Short; step grandparents, Gene and Marietta Treece.

Family and friends are invited to gather for a Visitation from 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m., Saturday, April 20, 2024, in the Chapel of Keepes Funeral Home.

Memorial contributions may be made in Coy’s memory to Wabash Rally Against Cancer (WRAC) or the Wabash County Animal Shelter Buddies. 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 Coy’s tribute wall, purchase flowers and leave condolences for his family, please visit www.keepesfuneralhome.com

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Shirley A. Goodson, 93

Shirley A. Goodson, 93, of Mount Carmel, Illinois, passed away Thursday, April 11, 2024, at home, surrounded by the love of her family. She was born on April 22, 1930, in Wabash County, Illinois, the daughter of Stanley J. and Effie May (Seibert) Addis. She married Daniel “Dan” A. Goodson on September 4, 1954, and they enjoyed forty-eight years of marriage, centered around their faith and family, until his passing on July 21, 2003.

Shirley was raised by her mother, and aunt Goldie Seibert. She was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. She and her husband owned and operated Goodson Fruit Farm in rural Wabash County. Through the years, Shirley worked at Security Bank and Trust, the Wabash County Courthouse and the local A.S.C.S. office, but her true devotion was to raising her children and providing a loving home. In her spare time, Shirley enjoyed bowling and traveling with Dan in their motorhome. Spending time with her grandchildren brought her special joy. She was a member of the EUM Church in Lancaster, IL. She will be deeply missed by her family and all who knew her.

Shirley will be remembered by her three daughters, Patricia “Patti” Knox and husband Terry, Cynthia “Cindy” Walls and husband Jonny, Donna Jackson and husband Jim; grandchildren, Jonathan (Heather) Knox, Michelle (Greg) Hedge, Danielle (Matt) Peach, Anna (Aaron) Schwarzlose, Matt (Donnie) Jackson, Nate Jackson, Jake (Tiffany) Jackson; great grandchildren, Allison, Ashleigh, and Abby Hedge, Piper, Kennedy, Ryder and Brittyn Knox, Ava Giese, Alivia, Haley, Anthony and Miley Peach, Elayna, Harper and Hazel Jackson.

Shirley was preceded in death by her parents; husband; infant Knox grandson; great-grandsons, Granger and infant Schwarzlose; aunt, Goldie Seibert, along with several more aunts, uncles and cousins.

Family and friends are invited to gather for a Visitation from 11:00 a.m.-11:45 a.m., Thursday, April 18,2024, in the Chapel of Keepes Funeral Home.

Graveside Services will be 12:00 p.m., Thursday, April 18, 2024 at Highland Memorial Cemetery with Pastor Brad Garner officiating.

Memorial contributions may be made in Shirley’s memory to Wabash Rally Against Cancer. Envelopes will be at the funeral home or can be mailed to Keepes Funeral Home, 1500 North Cherry Street, Mount Carmel, IL 62863.

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

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Michael Stephen Crummley, 69

Michael Stephen Crummley, 69, of Mount Carmel, Illinois, passed away Monday, April 8, 2024, at home. He was born on September 25, 1954, in Christopher, Illinois, the son of Harriet Demaret. He married Cynthia “Cindy” Noel on October 21, 1978, and they celebrated forty-five years of marriage centered around their big, beautiful family.

Mike worked in construction for over forty years at Kieffer Brother’s Construction Company and was a member of the Operating Union of Engineers. He was a member of the Moose Lodge, Mt. Carmel Eagles Aerie 3066, a Fourth Degree Member of the Knights of Columbus, and a member of St. Mary Catholic Church. Mike was instrumental in helping to build the Dee White Baseball Field in Mt. Carmel. He was a St. Louis Cardinals fan and enjoyed attending games with his family and friends. Mike loved the outdoors, spending time hunting and fishing, and enjoyed many adventures in life with his friends and family. The little ones always knew they could count on “Papaw Mike” to have a pocket full of candy and suckers. Mike’s presence on this earth will be dearly missed by his family and friends.

Mike leaves behind his beloved wife, Cindy; children, Jared (Julie) Crummley, Aaron (Jennifer) Crummley, Mark (Alix) Crummley, Rebecca (Jonathon) Stoltz, and William (Becca) Crummley; thirteen grandchildren, Lucas, Caroline, Anna, Carson, Makenna, Cooper, Amelia, Evelyn, Vivian, Easton, Elsie, Eli, and Mason; sisters, Theresa (Kendall) Cunningham, Diane Schuler; brothers, George (Judy) Perhach, Chris (Mary) Mondoni; mother-in-law, Jean Noel-Beckerman, and several extended family members.

Mike was preceded in death by his mother and stepfather, Harriet, and Verne Schuler; father-in-law, William Noel; aunt, Marie Roberts, cousins, Dale, and John Roberts.

A Rosary service will begin at 5:00 p.m., Friday, April 12, 2024, at St. Mary Catholic Church. A Visitation for family and friends will immediately follow the Rosary, lasting until 7:00 p.m.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:00 a.m., Saturday, April 13, 2024, at St. Mary Catholic Church, with Fr. Robert Zwilling as Celebrant, assisted by Deacon Jim Keepes. Burial will follow at St. Mary Catholic Cemetery.

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

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

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

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Sandra Iglehart, 60

Sandra Iglehart, 60, of Mount Carmel, Illinois, passed away peacefully Sunday, April 7, 2024, at home. She was born on November 27, 1963, in Mount Carmel, the daughter of James W. and Jannell (Doan) Iglehart.

Sandy was an active member of the VFW Women’s Auxiliary and a volunteer member of the VFW Military Honor Guard. In recent years, she was gifted a scooter which she enjoyed riding all around town to visit friends and family, no matter what the weather was. When Sandy’s first grandchild came along, she devoted herself from then on to taking care of all of them, which was a great help to her children. Her grandchildren became her whole life. Sandy will be deeply missed by her family and friends.

Sandy leaves behind her children, Tara (Josh) Wagner, Mark J. (Amanda) Newlin, Kayla (Tyler Baggett) Iglehart; grandchildren, Mersadies Wagner, Trenton Wagner, William Hammond, Jaxon Hammond, Quinton Hammond, Paislee Newlin, Karson Newlin, Jaylee Iglehart, Edwin Iglehart, and Ella Cole, who she thought of as her own; brothers, Gary (Anne Spade) Iglehart, Terry Iglehart, Rick Iglehart; several nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Sandy was preceded in death by her parents; sister, Vickie Bailey, sisters-in-law, Therese Iglehart, Kim Iglehart; special friend, Bill Dowdy.

Family and friends are invited to gather for a Visitation from 2:00 p.m.-4:00 p.m., Saturday, April 13, 2024, in the Chapel of Keepes Funeral Home.

Memorial Contributions may be made in memory of Sandy to her family to help with final expenses. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home or can be mailed to Keepes Funeral Home, 1500 North Cherry Street, Mount Carmel, IL 62863.

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

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James Kevin Weir, 62

James Kevin Weir, 62, of Mount Carmel, Illinois, passed away Friday, April 5, 2024, at Ascension St. Vincent Hospital in Evansville, Indiana, surrounded by the love of his family.  He was born on November 10, 1961, in Mount Carmel, the son of William and Gloria (Fredrick) Weir.  He married Tammy Higginbotham on December 7, 1985, and together they celebrated thirty-eight years of loving marriage. 

 Kevin had a variety of jobs throughout his life.  Some would call him a “Jack of all Trades”.  In his early years, he was an oil field worker, he has worked in janitorial, and for several years he worked in maintenance.  Kevin enjoyed painting, an artistic talent he inherited from his mother.  He also liked fishing, playing chess and guitar music.  Watching his grandson play baseball was special times Kevin cherished, and his all-time favorite pastime was “shooting the shit” with friends and family.  Kevin will be missed by his family and friends. 

 Kevin leaves behind his beloved wife, Tammy; daughters, Amanda (Andy) Murphy, Gloria (Dylan Foote) Weir; grandchildren, Silas, Jacob, and Delilah; brothers, Pat (Darlene) Weir, Mike Weir, Tom (Annie) Weir, Jim (Pat) Stansfield; one sister, Penny Stansfield; several loved nieces and nephews.

 Kevin was preceded in death by his parents; one brother, Dave Weir; brother-in-law, Rodney Higginbotham.

 Family and friends are invited to gather for a Visitation from 11:00 a.m.–1:00 p.m., Friday, April 12, 2024, In the Chapel of Keepes Funeral Home.

 Funeral Services will be at 1:00 p.m., Friday, April 12, 2024, in the Chapel of Keepes Funeral Home, with Pastor Kevin McGinnis officiating.  Burial will follow at Highland Memorial Cemetery.

 Memorial contributions may be made in Kevin’s memory to The Lunch Wagon.

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

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

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Debra Lynne Dunlap, 64

Debra Lynne Dunlap, 64, of Allendale, Illinois, passed away Sunday, March 31, 2024, at Gateway Hospital in Newburgh, Indiana, surrounded by the love of her family. She was born on January 5, 1960, in Decatur, Illinois, the daughter of Larry D. and Dodie Faye (Wright) Clark. She married Charles “Chuck” Dunlap on January 15, 2021, and together they enjoyed three years of loving marriage.

Debra loved the outdoors. She enjoyed being on the farm and tending to their farm animals. Debra had a great love for animals, especially her eleven dogs. She really enjoyed cutting and splitting firewood with Chuck. Fishing on the river and riding four wheelers were also special times to her. She enjoyed her large collection of snow babies. Debra attended the Methodist Church in Lawrenceville, IL. She loved her family dearly and will be missed by all who knew her.

Debra leaves behind her beloved husband, Chuck; parents, Larry and Dodie Clark of Walterboro, SC; daughters, Misty Salmon and husband Tony of Oreana, IL, Jennifer Hall and husband, Matt of Decatur, IL; grandchildren, Ivy, Reagan, and McKayla; sister, Deana (Roger) Nash of Walterboro, SC; and one niece, Emily (Garth) Hadwin of Savannah GA.

Debra was preceded in death by her grandparents.

A Memorial Service will be planned for a later date.

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

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Michael Lee Doan, 70

Michael Lee Doan, 70, of Mt. Carmel, Illinois, peacefully passed away Friday, March 29, 2024, at Linda E. White Hospice in Evansville, Indiana, surrounded by his loving family.

Funeral services will be held Saturday, April 6, 2024, at 2:00 p.m. at the First Baptist Church, 6th and Chestnut Streets, Mt. Carmel, Illinois.

Memorials may be made to the First Baptist Church.

Micheal was born March 2, 1954, to Morgan Keith and Sandra Sue (Gayer) Doan in Mt. Carmel, Illinois. He was a graduate of Mt. Carmel High School. Michael worked in the deli at Mt. Carmel Red and White for many years.

He was an avid Cubs fan and enjoyed playing guitar. Michael loved to watch his granddaughter, Lilly, play softball and his nephew, Blayne Sisson, play Mt. Carmel Aces football.

Surviving are his children: Misty Ann Doan-Bradley and Dara Lynn Doan, both of West Frankfort, Illinois, Sherry Shuster of Cleveland, Ohio, and Heather Conley of Mt. Carmel, Illinois; girlfriend Janet Knowles of Orio, Illinois; grandchildren, Christopher Doan, Wylee Fleck, Specialist Matthew Bradley and Lillyann Linsley; great grandchildren, Colson Fleck and Scarlett Bradley; siblings, Patricia Sisson of Mt. Carmel, Illinois, Linda Hill of Little Rock, Arkansas, Rick McCormick and Sharon McCormick-Brendel both of Grayville, Illinois, Vickie (Frank) Hodgson of Allendale, Illinois, Terry (Donnie) Pierce and Carla (Ray) Montgomery both of Mt. Carmel, Illinois.

Michael was preceded in death by his parents; grandparents, Fayetta and Woody Doan; aunt, Patricia Schroeder; cousin Evan Thomas Doan; several aunts, uncles, nieces and nephews.

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

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

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Neil Albert Earnest, 81

Neil Albert Earnest, 81, of Mount Carmel, Illinois, passed away on Sunday, March 31, 2024 at the Villas of Holly Brook with his loving family by his side. He was born on July 7, 1942 in Jasper County, Illinois, the son of A. Wayne and Opal (Webster) Earnest. Neil married Barbara Isenburg on February 24, 1963 and together they enjoyed sixty-one years of marriage centered on their family.

Neil dedicated his professional life to a variety of roles: he worked at Shaw Construction, was an insurance agent with Shepherd Insurance, and passionately owned and operated a Hardee's restaurant alongside his own catering business. Before retirement, he devoted six years to serving as the Director of Food Services at the Lawrence County Correctional Center.

A fervent Aces fan, Neil was deeply involved in his community, notably serving as a Wabash CUSD #348 board member for twenty-nine years. His commitment to community service extended through his active participation in Parkview Christian Church and numerous civic organizations within Wabash County, where he was a respected and beloved figure.

Above all, Neil's favorite pastime was spending quality time with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Known affectionately as "Pa," he was their most enthusiastic supporter and a source of unwavering encouragement. Neil's legacy is characterized not only by his professional achievements and community service but also by the love and support he bestowed upon his family.

Neil will be remembered by his wife, Barbara of Mount Carmel; son, Todd Earnest and his wife, Elizabeth of Mount Carmel; two daughters, Telisa Laws and husband, Jason of Mount Carmel, and Teresa Brown and husband, Bill of Mokena, IL; fourteen grandchildren, Shealey Greathouse (Laws), Levi Laws, Natalie Laws, Elliott Laws, Elijah Laws, Luke Laws, Sarah Laws, Tyler Brown, Connor Brown, McKenzye Earnest, Lillyianne Earnest, Vivianne Earnest, Skyler Pritchett, Kamden Pritchett; seven great-grandchildren, Landon, Nathaniel, Jackson, Isaac, Elliana and Owen Greathouse, and Henry Brown.

Neil was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Floyd, Norman and Donald Earnest.

Family and friends are invited to gather for a Visitation from 1:00 p.m.-4:00 p.m., Thursday, April 4, 2024, at Parkview Christian Church.

Funeral Services will be 4:00 p.m., Thursday, April 4, 2024 at Parkview Christian Church with Pastor Mark Richison officiating. Burial will follow at Highland Memorial Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made in Neil’s memory to Parkview Christian Church or Oil Belt Christian Service Camp. Envelopes will be at the Church or can be mailed to Keepes Funeral Home, 1500 North Cherry Street, Mount Carmel, IL 62863.

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

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Taunya L. Hutton, 75

Taunya L. Hutton, 75, of Mount Carmel, Illinois, passed away peacefully on Monday, March 25, 2024 at Wabash General Hospital in Mount Carmel. She was born on October 7, 1948 in Mount Carmel, the daughter of Charles “Buck” and Schola (Southers) Dardeen. Taunya married her husband, Ray Hutton on May 3rd, 1988.

She was a homemaker and loved cooking for her family. She enjoyed playing bingo, card games, long country drives and time spent with friends. Her children and grandchildren were her pride and joy, and she cherished watching each of them blossom into the people they are today. She never missed a late-night visit or video call, and she never missed an Aces football game. Taunya will be greatly missed by her family and all who knew her.

Taunya will be remembered by her husband, Ray Hutton; son, Wes Clemens and wife Cheryl; grandchildren, Dereck Hinderliter, Cassandra (Derek) Zimmer; Cloey (Matt) Latifoski and Andrew Gillihan; great grandchildren, Noah Latifoski and Amelia Latifoski.

Taunya was preceded in death by her parents; daughter, Toni Renee Dardeen; and brother, Tony Dardeen.

A Private Family Burial will take place at Bethel Cemetery in Bellmont, Illinois on Friday, April 5, 2024.

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

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

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Linda Arlene Mewes, 84

Linda Arlene Mewes, 84, of Mount Carmel, Illinois, passed away on Friday, March 29, 2024, at Wabash General Hospital, surrounded by the love of her family. She was born on March 8, 1940, in Wabash County, Illinois, the daughter of Charles and Mildred (Cunningham) Hunt. She married Ron Mewes on February 6, 1981, and they enjoyed forty-three years of a loving marriage.

Linda loved the Lord and her family. She was Baptized and joined the Lancaster Church of Christ at the age of 19 and was a faithful member. She worked twenty years as a seamstress in the garment factories, retiring in 2005 from Pearson Band Shoppe in Cynthiana, Indiana. In her spare time, she enjoyed sewing, quilting and major league baseball. Linda was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother whose presence will be dearly missed.

Linda leaves behind her beloved husband, Ron; her children, Greg Abell of Olney, IL, Georgia (George) Houck of Moore Haven, FL, Gloria (Keith) Kasinger of Bethpage, TN; Ron’s two sons, David (Deb) Mewes of Strongsville, OH, Dennis (Danita) Mewes of West Salem, IL; twelve grandchildren and twenty-one great-grandchildren; two sisters, Dolores (Russell) Smith, and Trixie (Jerry) Neikirk.

Linda was preceded in death by her parents; great-grandson, Keaton Mewes; and one brother-in-law.

Graveside Services will be 10:30 a.m. Monday, April 1, 2024, Little Wabash Cemetery, in West Salem, Illinois.

Memorial contributions may be made in Linda’s memory to Lancaster Church of Christ.

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

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

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Linda L. Kepley, 82

Linda L. Kepley, 82, of Mount Carmel, Illinois, passed away Thursday, March 21, 2024, at home. She was born on May 24, 1941, in Mount Carmel, the daughter of Edward and Mary (Brunner) Walter. She married Malvin Kepley on April 12, 1981, and they enjoyed forty-two years of marriage until his passing on January 8, 2024.

Linda devoted herself to her long teaching career. She started at St. Mary’s School in the early 1970’s, and then to District 348 until her retirement. After retiring from full time teaching, Linda taught classes at Wabash Valley College. It was her many years teaching grade school for the district that has had the most impact on area residents. She truly loved her students and wanted each one to thrive and succeed, not just in school but also into adulthood. She could see potential in many children, even if they didn’t see it in themselves. Mrs. Kepley led her students with strict rules and discipline, but also great love. She never forgot any of her students and kept up with their happenings through the years. Linda started a secret program called “Linda’s Kids”, starting with 1 student, and continuing for over 30 years with hundreds of children, making sure each child received a surprise delivery on Christmas Eve. In her spare time, she enjoyed creating with Stampen Up and loved to paint, she was very artistic. Linda was a member of Poseyville Christian Church Disciples of Christ where she enjoyed singing and playing the organ and piano. Linda’s bright smile and caring nature will be remembered forever by her family and countless friends.

Linda leaves behind her brother, Edward Walter and his wife, Beth Lorenzen of Edmonds WA; niece, Samantha Walter; nephew, Michael Walter and wife, Amy; great nieces and nephew, Allison, Kylie and Michael Walter; grandchildren, Ryan McGrane, Amber Shelton; a special family whom she loved, Jen, Chad, Zayn and Tenley Davis.

Linda was preceded in death by her parents, and beloved husband, Malvin.

Family and friends are invited to gather for a Visitation from 11:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m., Saturday, March 30, 2024, in the Chapel of Keepes Funeral Home.

Memorial Services will be 1:00 p.m., Saturday, March 30, 2024, in the Chapel of Keepes Funeral Home with Pastor Rocky Wrye officiating. A Private Family Burial will follow at Highland Memorial Cemetery, where Linda and Malvin will be laid to rest.

In lieu of flowers, Memorial Contributions may be made in Linda’s memory to Parkview Caring Closet, Ed Walter Little League Park or The Lunch Wagon. Envelopes will be at the funeral home or can be mailed to Keepes Funeral Home, 1500 North Cherry Street, Mount Carmel, IL 62863.

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

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