Katelyn Renee Brown, 29

Katelyn Renee Brown, 29, of Mount Carmel, Illinois, went to be with the Lord Sunday, July 14, 2024, at home, surrounded by her loving family. She was born on October 4, 1994, in Fort Sill, Oklahoma, the daughter of Michael and Diana Grisham. She married Joshua Brown on July 15, 2017, at the Free Methodist Church in Mount Carmel, and they lived their lives together centered around their faith and family.

Katelyn was a loving wife, mother, daughter and friend. She extended kindness to everyone she met and always went out of her way to help others. Katelyn’s favorite part about life was being a wife and mother. She was the loudest mom in the stands cheering for her children at their sporting events. Katelyn was very involved with anything to do with her children and having arts and crafts time with them brought her special joy. She enjoyed spending time with her BFFs, Kelly Weir and Meagan Reynolds who provided exceptional care for Katelyn up until the very end. She was a member of the Wabash Presbyterian Church where she sang with the Praise and Worship Team and was an active member of the Great Banquet. Katelyn touched so many lives in her life and her family and friends will miss her dearly.

Katelyn leaves behind her beloved husband, Josh; two sons, Braxton and Josiah Brown; three daughters, Patience, Layla, and Elliana Brown; four brothers, Dawson Grisham, Bryar Keortge, Bryan French, and Jordan Crow; many loved cousins, aunts and uncles.

Katelyn was preceded in death by her grandparents and great-grandparents.

Family and friends are invited to gather for a Visitation from 11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m., Saturday, July 20, 2024, at Wabash Presbyterian Church.

Funeral Services will be at 2:00 p.m., Saturday, July 20, 2024, at Wabash Presbyterian Church with Pastor Kevin McGinnis officiating. Burial will follow at Wabash Presbyterian Cemetery at Orio.

Memorial contributions may be made in Katelyn’s memory to the Katelyn Brown Memorial Fund at the First National Bank of Allendale. Envelopes will be at the church, can be mailed to Keepes Funeral Home, 1500 North Cherry Street, Mount Carmel, IL 62863, or dropped off at any of the bank locations.

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

James David Barger, 77

James David Barger, 77, of Allendale, Illinois, passed away Friday, July 12, 2024, at Deaconess Gateway Hospital in Newburgh, Indiana, surrounded by his loving family.

He was born on March 26, 1947, in Harrisburg, Illinois, the son of W. L. “Dave” and Mary T. (Baker) Barger. He married Ruth Ernestine Smith at the First Christian Church in Allendale, on June 13, 1971, and they have celebrated fifty-three years of marriage, centered around their faith and family.

Jim was a 1965 graduate of Carrier Mills High School and in 1969 he graduated from Southern Illinois University. He continued his education in 1994 by attending Indiana Wesleyan University. Jim earned a master’s degree in education and taught school for thirty-three years at Allendale High School. He was a coach for the basketball and baseball teams and was a positive influence on many of his students who remember him fondly. Jim was an accomplished author having published three biographical textbooks. He worked as a librarian at both the Wabash Valley College and the Mt. Carmel City Libraries, was a member of the Wabash/Edwards Retired Teachers Association and president of the Carrier Mills Alumni Association. Jim has served as president, secretary, and zone governor of the Allendale Ruritan Club. In 2023 he was voted as Ruritan of the Year. He served as trustee and treasurer of the Allendale Rural Fire Protection District where he was a member for twenty-three years. He enjoyed volunteering for the Lunch Wagon and Circle A Servolution food pantry. Jim had a love for animals and was an avid fan of St. Louis Cardinals baseball and Indiana Pacers basketball. He was a member of the First Christian Church in Allendale. Jim was very kind and caring and he will be dearly missed by his family and friends.

James leaves behind his beloved wife, Ernestine; children, Adrienne (Mike) Robinson, Liz (Eric Kenney) Lawalin, and Steven Barger; two grandchildren, Joseph David and Norah Elizabeth Robinson; one brother, John (Kay) Barger; several loved nieces, nephews and cousins.

Jim was preceded in death by his parents.

Family and friends are invited to gather for a visitation from 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m., Wednesday, July 17, 2024, in the Chapel of Keepes Funeral Home.

Funeral Services will be at 1:00 p.m., Wednesday, July 17, 2024, in the Chapel of Keepes Funeral Home with name officiating. Burial will follow at Allendale Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made in Jim’s memory to honor his love of animals to

Heaven After Hell Rescue, 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 Jim’s tribute wall, purchase flowers and leave condolences for the Barger family, please visit www.keepesfuneralhome.com

Charles T. Culiver, 86

86 year old Mt. Carmel resident, Charles T. Culiver, passed away Tuesday, July 9, 2024 at Carle Richland Hospital in Olney, Illinois

Charles was born on August 18, 1937 in Edwards County, Illinois to Troyer and Lois (Coleman) Culiver. Charles had been a lifelong farmer and also worked several years in the oil fields.

Charles was married to Mary Wilson who preceded him in death on Feb. 10, 2010.

Survivors include 3 daughters; Donna (Daniel) Carter of Mt. Carmel, Deloris (John) Baxlay of Mt. Carmel and Diane Culiver of Bellmont. 13 grandchildren, 31 great grandchildren and 16 great-great grandchildren.

Charles was preceded in death by his parents, 1 brother, his wife, 1 son – Jimmie Wilson and 1 daughter- Debbie Odom.

Per his request, Charles will be cremated with graveside services held at a later date.

Nale’s Funeral Home of Albion is assisting the family.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be left for the family at www.nalesfuneralhome.com. Nale’s Funeral Home is assisting the family.

Raymond L. Haase, 86

Raymond L. Haase, 86, of Mt. Carmel, Illinois, passed away Sunday, July 7, 2024, at Linda E. White Hospice in Evansville, Indiana, surrounded by his loving family.

Funeral Mass will be held Friday, July 12, 2024, at 11:00 a.m. at St. Mary’s Catholic Church with burial following at St. Mary’s Catholic Cemetery.

A visitation will be Thursday, July 11, 2024, from 4:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. at Short-Cunningham Funeral Home with Rosary at 3:30 p.m.

Memorials may be made to St. Mary’s Catholic Church Roof Fund or Linda E. White Hospice. Envelopes will be available.

Raymond was born December 31, 1937, the son of Theodore and Theresa (Weber) Haase, in Gibson County, Indiana. He proudly served in the Indiana National Guard for seven years. Raymond married Doris Feller on January 8, 1966, in Evansville, Indiana. To this union two children were born, Karen (Scott) Ewing of Herrin, Illinois, and Carol (Timothy) Kemper of Mt. Carmel, Illinois. Also surviving are two grandchildren, Chelsea Sheets and Zachary Kemper, two great grandchildren, Madison Sheets and Lydia Sheets, and a sister, Mary Berberich. Preceding him in death were his parents and three brothers, George, Robert, and Johnny Haase.

Raymond was an active member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church, served on the church council, was an honorary life member of Knights of Columbus (69 years), a 4th degree member and two years as faithful navigator. In 1978, Raymond was voted Knight of the Year.

The family moved to Mt. Carmel in 1972 and Raymond pursued a farming career. He was a lifelong member of the Farm Bureau, serving on the board of directors for seven years and three years as president. In 1980, he won Ring Around National Corn Yield, in 1981, he was Ring Around Operation Weigh Out winner for corn, and in 1983, he won the Illinois State Winner of Ring Around Operation Weigh Out for soybeans.

Raymond enjoyed gardening, golfing, horseshoes, and country line dancing. For the past twenty years, Ray took his family on a Christmas vacation to the Caribbean. He dearly loved spending time with his family.

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

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

Jerry Newkirk, 81

Jerry Newkirk, 81, of Mt. Carmel, Illinois, peacefully passed away at his residence Sunday, July 7, 2024, with his wife by his side.

There will be a Celebration of Life Saturday, July 20, 2024, at 2:00 p.m. at the First Baptist Church, 130 W. 6th Street, Mt. Carmel, Illinois. Visitation will begin at 1:00 p.m. until the time of service. Memorials may be made to Residential Hospice or First Baptist Church Food Pantry. They can be sent to Short-Cunningham Funeral Home, P.O. Box 397, Mt. Carmel, Illinois 62863.

Jerry was born September 20, 1942, in Indianapolis, Indiana, to Bennie F. and Jewell O. (Bryant) Newkirk. He graduated from Mt. Carmel High School in the class of 1960, where he lettered in baseball. Jerry proudly served his country in the U.S. Marines.

On January 23, 1970, Jerry married Leah M. Glouser in Mt. Carmel, Illinois. They enjoyed 54 years of marriage. To this union two children were born: Cynthia M. (Jeff) Boggs and Jerry L. Newkirk, II, all of Mt. Carmel. Also surviving are three granddaughters: Jaxyn R. Newkirk, Caroline J. Boggs, and Jadyn L. Newkirk. Preceding Jerry in death were his parents and a brother Jack Newkirk.

He worked as a grain broker for NFO and a Motorcycle Dealer in Mt. Carmel. Jerry was a member of First Baptist Church. He taught a Sunday School class there. Jerry was a member of the American Legion.

He was an avid motorcyclist and raced them. He also enjoyed bicycle riding, going as far as Clarksville, Tennessee, and back to Mt. Carmel twice with Leah joining him!

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

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

Steven Kent Banks, 73

Steven Kent Banks, fondly known as "Banko", was born on December 7, 1950 and passed away on June 3, 2024.

Steve grew up in Mount Carmel, Illinois, and later retired with his wife, Katie, in West Palm Beach, Florida. In Mt. Carmel, when he wasn't running his painting contracting business, he loved spending his free time gardening and tending to their property on the Wabash River, where he often ran nets for catfish.

Steve was a wildly free-spirited man. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Kathryn Marie (Dee) Banks, and his daughter, Melanie Sue Banks. He is survived by his daughter Page Dee Kuhlman, Jay Kuhlman, his daughter Shelly Ray Euell, and Thomas Euell. Steve's love extended to his grandchildren: Ethan, Tabitha, Samantha, Dalton, Colten, Finn and Bowen, with whom he found great joy.

Steve was a wonderful handyman, an artist at heart and a passionate fisherman. He was strong, fierce, romantic and dedicated to everything he did in life. He loved music, playing the guitar and singing. Steve cherished life and had a profound love for most everyone he met. Godspeed, Banko.

Family and friends are invited to a Celebration of Life on Saturday, July 20 at 4 p.m. at the VFW in Mt. Carmel, Illinois.

Patricia E. “Patty” Potts, 65

Patricia E. “Patty” Potts, 65, of Mount Carmel, Illinois, passed away on Wednesday, July 3, 2024 at Deaconess Gateway in Newburgh, Indiana.  She was born on September 6, 1958, in Mount Carmel, IL, the daughter of Robert and Allene (Higgins) Potts.

Patty will be remembered as a loving mother, grandmother and sister.  Her fondest times in life were spent with family and watching her granddaughters play.  Patty had an unbreakable bond with her sisters.  She was a dedicated employee for Penske where she worked as a forklift operator.  In her free time, Patty enjoyed cooking, reading a good book or watching her favorite shows.  Patty will be missed by her family and friends.

Patty will be remembered by her two sons, Jordan (Danielle) Jones, Jason Batchelor; one daughter, Stephanie Batchelor; two granddaughters, Leah Ham, and Aubryanna Jones; father, Robert (Carolyn) Potts; two sisters, Debbie Potts and Lori (Jonathan) Wilbourne; many loved nieces, nephews and cousins.

Patty was preceded in death by her mother.

In keeping with Patty’s wishes, cremation will take place and a celebration of Patty’s life will be held at a later date.

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

Richard Lee “Rick” Randolph, 65

Richard Lee “Rick” Randolph, 65, passed away peacefully on Friday, June 28, 2024 after a courageous battle with cancer at Transcendent Healthcare in Owensville, Indiana with loving family by his side.

Funeral Service will be held on Monday, July 1, 2024 at 1:00 p.m. at Heartland Worship Center. Visitation for family and friends will begin at 12:00 noon until the time of service at the church. Burial will follow in Rose Hill Cemetery.

Rick was born May 16, 1959, to Richard Randolph and Patsy Treece Randolph in Mt. Carmel, Illinois where he spent much of his life.

He was an artist known for his hand lettering and pinstriping, with his work visible still today on many Market Street shop windows and signs. He enjoyed playing the guitar, listening to ZZ Top, fishing and mushroom hunting. Above all, he loved his family. He attended Heartland Worship Center.

He is survived by his mother Patsy (Treece) Randolph; his daughters, Chastalee (Jay) Viehe and Chelsea Randolph; his grandchildren, Leon Viehe and Rayna Kerns; his brothers Bill (Linda) Randolph and Daniel Randolph; sister, Cynthia (Jerry) Mobley; special aunts, Katherine Keneipp, Virginia Ritchey, and Marcia Singer; and several nieces, nephews and cousins.

To his daughters, Chastalee and Chelsea, Rick was a loving father with a big heart. They remember  him for his   silly stories, his sense of humor and the many lessons he taught like how to bait a hook or where to find the best morels.

Rick was preceded in death by his father, Richard, maternal grandparents, Clifton and Doris Treece, paternal grandparents, Charles “Bud” and Edythe Randolph.

Donations in memory of Rick can be made to Wabash Rally Against Cancer. Envelopes will be available from Short-Cunningham Funeral Home.

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

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

Freida Louise Kieffer Armstrong, 87

Freida Louise Kieffer Armstrong, 87, of Mt. Carmel, Illinois passed away Wednesday, June 26, 2024, at Holly Brook surrounded by family.

Graveside Services will be held Wednesday, July 3, 2024, at 1:00 p.m. at Friendsville Cemetery. There will be no public visitation.

Freida was born January 30, 1937, in Mt. Carmel to William Kieffer and Millie Mae Brandeburg Kieffer. She married James J. Armstrong on January 26, 1957, at St. Mary Church in Wabash County Illinois.

She was a member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Mt. Carmel. She worked for many years as a private caregiver for several people in the area, and was very close to those entrusted with her care. She was an amazing cook and cooked in various places in the city, but what she most enjoyed was cooking for those she loved.

Those left to mourn her passing are daughters, Debbie (Doug) Bennett and Donna Armstrong Frazier; four grandchildren, Matt (Krystal) Bennett, Raven Bennett, Jessica (Will) Redfairn; Franklin Frazier; two great grandchildren, Brooklyn Moore and Hayden Redfairn; brothers, Charles Kieffer, Albert Kieffer, William (Ruth) Kieffer, Jr., Henry (Terri) Jennings, and Ary (Linda) Jennings.

Freida was preceded in death by her mother, Millie; father, William; stepfathers, Henry H. Jennings and Bill Reedus; her husband Jim; brother, Gib and sister, Loretta.

In Freida’s memory, the family suggests donations to St. Mary School.

Online condolences may be sent to www.short-cunninghamfh.com

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

Tommy F. Miller, 87

Tommy Francis Miller, 87, of Mt. Carmel, Illinois, passed away Saturday, June 22, 2024, at his residence.

A private family service will be held. Internment will be at Allendale Cemetery.

Tommy was born December 27, 1936, the son of Howard and Mary Ruth (Saulman) Miller, in Wabash County, Illinois. On January 6, 1955, Tommy married Fayetta Deisher in Mt. Carmel, Illinois. To this union three children were born: Dedra (Barry) Hollen, David (Debbie) Miller and Charles Miller who passed away in 2018.

Left to cherish Tommy’s memory is his children Dedra (Barry) Hollen of St. Francisville, Illinois and David (Debbie) Miller of Mt. Carmel; grandchildren, Amy Ravellette, Amber Potts, Jamie (Matt) Adkins, Brenda (Tommy) Miller, Tom (Irene) Miller, Jesse (Danielle) Miller and Shane Toutloff; greatgrandchildren, Brie Cline, Harley Ravellette, Jaylin Potts, Chloe Potts, Tyler (Gianna) Adkins, Zachary (Kylie) Adkins, Madalyn Goings, Alexca Miller, Chloe, Alyvia, Cole and Riley Toutloff; great greatgrandchildren, Emersyn Potts, Mason, Adelynn and Bennet Adkins; brother, Wayne Miller of Mt. Carmel, Illinois and sister, Helen Lucas of West Salem, Illinois.

Preceding Tommy in death were his parents; his wife, Fayetta; a son, Charles Miller; three sisters and five brothers.

Tommy worked as a tool and die maker for Potter and Brumfield in Princeton, Indiana. He was a member of the Mt. Carmel Eagles #3066 and VFW. Tommy was a diehard Cub’s fan! He enjoyed spending time on the river.

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

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

Kevin E. Linson, 63

Kevin E. Linson, 63, of Mount Carmel, Illinois, passed away on Monday, June 17, 2024 in Evansville, IN. He was born on July 20, 1960 in Seatle, Washington, the son of John Linson, Sr. and Carole Linson.

Kevin worked in the oil fields briefly, at B & D Independence and as a self-employed painter. He loved his cars, mushroom hunting and anything outdoors. Kevin never met a stranger and would talk to everyone he met. He will be missed by his family and friends.

Kevin will be remembered by his daughter, Kyria Linson; son, Josh (Ashley) Garrett; grandson, Kyler; brothers, John Linson, Jr., Jeff (Mary) Linson, Lee Linson, Rex Linson, and Bruce (Jill) Linson; sisters, Kathy Linson and Brenda (Mike) Troutt; many loved nieces and nephews.

Kevin was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Mike Linson and Dennis Linson; sister, Patricia McCrary.

A Graveside Service to honor Kevin’s life will be scheduled at a later date at Adams Corner Cemetery.

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

Chester Miles, 91

Chester Miles, 91, of Mt. Carmel, Illinois passed away Wednesday, June 19, 2024, at St. Vincent Ascension, Evansville, Indiana with family by his side.

Funeral Service for Chester will be Saturday, June 22, 2024, at 10:30 a.m. at the Chapel of Short-Cunningham Funeral Home, 527 N Mulberry St. in Mt. Carmel. Burial Services with Military Services will follow at Highland Memorial Cemetery on College Drive in Mt. Carmel.

A visitation for family and friends will be held on Friday, June 21, 2024, at Short-Cunningham Funeral Home from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m.

Chester was born September 6, 1932, in Mt. Carmel, Illinois to William Arthur and Lillie Mae (Senn) Miles. He was a graduate of Mt. Carmel High School in 1950. He served his country in the U.S. Marine Corps from 1952 to 1957. Following his service he graduated from Hardin Simmons University in Abilene, Texas in 1962 with a degree in Education. He followed that with a Master’s degree from the University of Evansville.

On April 18, 1954, Chester married Nellie Joan Bare. They enjoyed forty-seven years of marriage until her passing on May 17, 2001. Together they had three children: Susan (Dave) Taylor, Debra (Phillip) Beal, and David (Liza) Miles; seven grandchildren; and five great grandchildren.

On February 15, 2003, he married Belinda Potts, who survives. He was a beloved stepfather to Belinda’s children: Susan (Harold) Young, Steven (Carrie) Potts, Sherry (Andy) Anthony and grandfather to her seven grandchildren.

Preceding Chester in death were his parents, wife Joan; siblings James “Jimmy” Miles, Essie Reel, Andy Miles, Jessie Hack, and twin sister Esther Couts.

In addition to his wife Belinda and their children he is survived by his sisters, Ruth Pershall, Betty (Kenneth) Wisley along with many nieces and nephews.

Chester is an endorsed chaplain of the North American Mission Board and served as a chaplain for the Southern Baptist Disaster Relief. He was a member of the Crossville Missionary Baptist Church, Gideon’s International and American Red Cross. He loved volunteering in many ways. He worked as a math teacher in Wabash District #348 from 1962 until his retirement in 1994.

Donations in Chester’s memory can be sent to Greater Wabash Association Disaster Relief or Gideon’s International % of the funeral home. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home.

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

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

Shirley Jean Walters Bennett, 85

Shirley Jean Walters Bennett, 85, of Eager, Arizona, formerly of Mt. Carmel, Illinois, passed away on Friday, May 31, 2024, in Arizona.

A Graveside Service for Shirley will be Thursday, June 27, 2024, at 1:00 p.m. at Highland Memorial Cemetery.

Shirley was born November 2, 1938, in Harrisburg, Illinois, to William Taylor and Rosa Ann Rudd Walters. She married Wendell D. Bennett on December 5, 1952. They had three children. Those left to mourn her passing are daughter, Gloria Darlene Bennett (Herman) Miller; son, William Doug (Debbie) Bennett; eight grandchildren, Bradley, Jeremy, Anthony, Brook, Steve, Matthew, Raven, Taylor; and eight great grandchildren.

She was a member of First Baptist Church in Mt. Carmel and a member of Eastern Star. She worked for many years as a beautician before retiring and moving to Arizona.

Shirley is preceded in death by her parents; husband, Wendell; son, Steve and all her siblings.

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

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

Joseph “Bob” Dodge, 61

Joseph “Bob” Dodge, 61, of Mount Carmel, Illinois, passed away on Monday, June 3, 2024 in Evansville, Indiana, surrounded by his loving family and significant other, Mary Peterson. He was born on February 24, 1963 the son of Joseph and Bernadette “Bernie” Dodge.

Bob was a boilermaker, restorer of all things, tinkerer, a geode and a plant lover. Bob was a brother his sisters could count on (Semper Fi).

Bob will be remembered by his three sisters, Allyson (George) Margelin of Mount Carmel, Beth (Christa Hinton) Dodge of Oak Park, IL, and Ann Dodge of Shell Beach, CA; four nieces and one nephew; significant other, Mary Peterson; along with extended family and friends.

Bob was preceded in death by his parents; and niece, Andrea Marie Heiken.

In keeping with Bob’s wishes, no formal services are planned at this time.

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

Ivan Ray Stewart, 86

Ivan Ray Stewart, 86, of Mount Carmel, Illinois, passed away Saturday, June 8, 2024, at Oakview Nursing and Rehab, surrounded by love. He was born on July 29, 1937, in Lancaster, Illinois, the son of Dewey and Mabel (Miller) Stewart.

Ray worked as a dispatcher at the Mount Carmel Police Department for nineteen years. He enjoyed life and kept a positive attitude. Ray had a good sense of humor, always had a smile and loved to bring joy to others. He loved listening to sports on his radio, especially MCHS Aces Football and WVC Basketball. Ray was a member of the First Baptist Church, and he will by dearly missed by his family and the many friends he had at Oakview Nursing and Rehab.

Ray will be remembered by a brother-in-law, several loved nieces, nephews, great-nieces, nephews and cousins.

Ray was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Merrill “Jake” Stewart; sisters, Lois Easter, Jean Wilkinson, Ruth Cockrill, and Ann Fields.

Family and friends are invited to gather for a Visitation from 4:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m., Thursday, June 13, 2024, in the Chapel of Keepes Funeral Home.

Funeral Services will be at 10:00 a.m., Friday, June 14, 2024, in the Chapel of Keepes Funeral Home with Brother Steve Williamson officiating. Burial will follow at Harrison Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made in Ray’s memory to Harrison Cemetery or Oakview Nursing and Rehab Activity Department. 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 Ray’s tribute wall, purchase flowers and leave condolences for his family, please visit www.keepesfuneralhome.com

William A. “Bill” Schafer, 83

William A. “Bill” Schafer, 83, of Allendale, Illinois, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, June 4, 2024 at the Villas of Holly Brook in Mount Carmel. He was born on September 22, 1940 at home in Allendale, Illinois, the son of Christian Harvey and Anna Wave (Sparks) Schafer. He graduated from Allendale High School, went on to obtain a Bachelor’s Degree in Education from Oakland City University and his Masters from Eastern University. Bill married Crystal Barrett on June 26, 1966 and together they enjoyed fifty-seven years of marriage.

Bill will be remembered as a loving husband, father and grandfather. He devoted his first years teaching in Haubstadt, Indiana, Lawrenceville High School where he taught for many years and also worked at Vincennes University. Bill loved to travel to various glass conventions and always looked forward to making new friends. Having a family chowder in Allendale, was one of Bill’s favorite activities. He had a gift for music and played the dulcimer in the Red Hill Dulcimer Society. Bill loved to hear his wife, Chris, play the piano and was always eager to remind her if she missed a note. He was a member of First United Methodist Church in Lawrenceville, IL. Bill will be deeply missed by his family and all who knew him.

Bill will be remembered by his loving wife, Chris Schafer of Allendale; daughter, Patty Siemon and husband, Jed; two granddaughters, Alayna and Breana.

Bill was preceded in death by his parents; and brother, Jerry Schafer.

Family and friends are invited to gather for a Visitation from 11:00 a.m.- 12:00 p.m., Friday, June 21, 2024 in the Chapel of Keepes Funeral Home

A Celebration of Life will be held at 12:00 p.m., Friday, June 21, 2024 in the Chapel of Keepes Funeral Home with Pastor Roger Boyd officiating.

Memorial contributions may be made in Bill’s memory to the First United Methodist Church in Lawrenceville, IL. 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 Bill’s tribute wall, and leave condolences for the Schafer family, please visit www.keepesfuneralhome.com

Margarette June Knight, 92

Margarette June Knight, 92, of Mount Carmel, Illinois, passed away on Tuesday, June 4, 2024 at her home surrounded by the love of her family. She was born on February 24, 1932 in Philelphia, Mississippi, the daughter of John and Mary Ann (Tomes) Burkes. She married Robert “Red” Knight on December 22, 1951 and together they enjoyed fifty-eight years of marriage before his passing on April 20, 2010.

June enjoyed the simple things in life and was most proud of her family, especially her granddaughter and great grandchildren. In her free time, she enjoyed working crossword puzzles and listening to music. June had a love for animals especially her three cats. She was a member of Heartland Worship Center and was a lifetime member of the VFW Ladies Auxiliary. She will be missed by her family and friends.

June will be remembered by her son, Tim (Jackie) Knight; granddaughter, Crystal Healy; twin grandchildren, William W. “Bubby” Healy, Jr. and Clarissa “Sissy” Healy; several extended family members ranging from Evansville to Mississippi.

June was preceded in death by her parents; husband; siblings, Joyce Burkes, Dorethea Schweitzer, and JW Burkes.

The family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to Residential Hospice nurses, J’Na and Teresa, and to long term caregivers, Monica Sloan and Melissa Neely.

A private family burial will take place at Highland Memorial Cemetery where June will be laid to rest next to her beloved husband, Red Knight.

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

Laura M. Hall, 86

Laura M. Hall, 86, of Mt. Carmel, Illinois, peacefully passed away Sunday, June 2, 2024, at Wabash General Hospital with her family by her side.

Funeral services will be held Friday, June 7, 2024, at 1:00 p.m. in the chapel of Short-Cunningham Funeral Home, 527 N. Mulberry Street, Mt. Carmel, Illinois. Burial will follow at Highland Memorial Cemetery.

Visitation will be from 11:00 a.m. until the time of service at 1:00 p.m.

Laura was born August 10, 1937, in Decker, Indiana, the daughter of Preston J. and Alma (Lankford) Hall. She attended Community Church of God.

Laura worked as a CNA at many of the nursing homes in Mt. Carmel. She enjoyed playing cards, Bingo, listening to country music and was an avid Cub’s fan. Laura savored drinking INSTANT Folger’s coffee. Most of all, she loved spending time with her children and grandchildren.

Surviving are her children Jerry Pierce of Little Rock, Arkansas, Mark (Sharon) Pierce, David (Becky) Pierce, Roger Pierce, and Loretta Pierce, all of Mt. Carmel, Illinois; daughters-in-law, Vicki Pierce of Casey, Illinois and Juanita Pierce of Browns, Illinois; several grandchildren; several great grandchildren; three great great grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.

Preceding her in death were her parents; children, Warren Pierce, Carl Pierce, Ralph Joseph Pierce and a still born child; and siblings, George Hall and Mary Miller.

Memorials may be made to St. Judes’ Children’s Hospital.

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

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

Peggy Ann Teague, 77

Peggy Ann Teague, 77, of Jasper, Indiana, formerly of Orio, Illinois, passed away Sunday, June 2, 2024, at Memorial Hospital in Jasper, Indiana, surrounded by the love of her family. She was born on February 25, 1947, in Allendale, Illinois, the daughter of Jesse and Frances (Tarr) Shepard. She married Alan Teague on September 10, 1987, and they have celebrated thirty-seven years of marriage.

Peggy attended Allendale School and in 1979 she graduated from Wabash Valley College as a Registered Nurse. She worked in nursing for thirty-one years. At times during her career, she held the position of Director of Nurses and also worked in pediatrics and obstetrics. Peggy was an excellent artist who enjoyed painting, gardening, tending to her flowers, listening to Elvis Presley music and loved her cats. In her youth, she attended and was baptized at Wabash Presbyterian Church in Orio. She was the heart and soul of the family, a loving wife, to Alan, the best mother, nana, mimi and friend. Memories of Peggy will be cherished forever by her family and friends.

Peggy leaves behind her beloved husband, Alan; children, Susan (Lloyd) Hughes, Tina Hargan, James (Amy) Teague, Julie Teague; grandchildren, CJ Simpson, Jessica Simpson, Shea (Tristan) Lewis, Lacey (Jonathon) Steinkamp, Alisha (Dakota) White, Justin Teague, Madison Teague, Andy (Liz) Grinstead, Seth (Toni) Grinstead; great grandson and the love of her life, Xane Simpson; nine great-grandchildren with two on the way; sister, Dolores Johnson; and life long best friend, Mary K. Rigg.

Peggy was preceded in death by her parents; son, James “Jimmie” Reed; and grandson, Logan Reed.

Family and friends are invited to gather for a Visitation from 11:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m., Friday, June 7, 2024, in the Chapel of Keepes Funeral Home.

A Celebration of Life will be at 12:00 p.m., Friday, June 7, 2024, in the Chapel of Keepes Funeral Home. Burial will follow at Wabash Presbyterian Cemetery at Orio, where Peggy will be laid to rest beside her parents.

Memorial contributions may be made in Peggy’s memory to Wabash Presbyterian Cemetery, or Brain Aneurysm Foundation. 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 Peggy’s tribute wall, purchase flowers and leave condolences for her family, please visit www.keepesfuneralhome.com

Larry Joe Neikirk, 58

Larry Joe Neikirk, 58, of Mount Carmel, Illinois, passed away Sunday, June 2, 2024, at the home of his sister, surrounded by his loving family. He was born on July 11, 1965, in Mount Carmel, the son of Larry Neikirk and Molly (Couch) Helton.

Joe worked for several years as a carpenter. He loved the outdoors and wildlife. He was an avid deer hunter, bass fisherman, and enjoyed all types of sport shooting. He was a member of the Lancaster Church of Christ and will be dearly missed by his family and friends.

Joe leaves behind two sons, Jesse (Brittany) Neikirk, Joezy Neikirk; one daughter, Brittany Swift; five grandsons, Keagan, Jayce and Jett Swift, Dane and Jax Neikirk; his father, Larry (Darlene) Neikirk; mother, Molly Helton; one brother, Mark (Amy) Neikirk; three sisters, Lisa (David) Berry, Sherri (Jeff) Keepes, Amy (Chuck) Kingsbury; Step sister, Crystle Appleton; step children, Clifford Cooper, Chelle Barnhard, and Michael Schoenbaum; many aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and cousins.

Joe was preceded in death by his grandparents.

A Graveside Service will take place at 5:00 p.m., Saturday, June 8, 2024 at Harrison Cemetery in Lancaster, Illinois, with Pastor Carson Root officiating.

The family would like to thank Wabash General Hospital Oncology Department for their compassion and care shown to Joe and his family during his illness.

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