Wayne F. Orr, Sr., 83, of Taylorville, IL died at 1:37 pm Thursday, January 29, 2015 at Meadow Manor Nursing Home, Taylorville.

He was born November 21, 1931 in Taylorville the son of Frank H. and Mary F. Durbin. On August 13, 1950 he married Betty L. Spinner at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Taylorville. She preceded him in death on August 10, 2004. He was a member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church, and was employed by Borg-Warner and Georgia-Pacific/Hopper Paper Company. Later he owned and operated Wayne’s Trim and Upholstery in Taylorville. Wayne was a lifetime member of the Taylorville Knights of Columbus. Wayne loved his family, home, neighbors, friends and St. Mary’s Parish. He was a Pittsburgh Pirates fan and enjoyed fishing the lakes, rivers and parks. He liked feeding the ducks and geese and enjoyed taking pictures and talking to people wherever he was.

Surviving are his children: Wayne F. Orr, Jr and fiancée Kathy Bowman of Taylorville, Donna Cebulski and husband Greg of Taylorville, and Tony Orr and wife Shannon of North Platte, NE. Grandchildren: Lisa Kay Walker, Ryan Orr, Teal Orr, Austin Orr and Abby Orr; Great Grandchildren: Gavin Walker and Garek Walker; Great-great Grandchild: Cambell Walker; Brother: Eddy Marshall of Fr. Myers, FL. He was preceded in death by his parents, wife, and two brothers: Byron Marshall and Bob Marshall.

Funeral Mass will be held at 10:00 am Tuesday, February 3, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Taylorville with Fr. Alan Hunter officiating. Inurnment will be in Oak Hill Cemetery, Taylorville. Visitation will be held from 5:00 pm – 7:00 pm Monday, February 2 at McClure Funeral Home, Taylorville. There will be a prayer service at 4:45 pm.

Memorials may be made to: St. Mary’s Catholic School, 422 S. Washington, Taylorville, IL 62568.

Memories of Wayne or condolences to the family may be sent online at www.mcclurefuneralhome.com.

Fern Showalter, 97, of Taylorville, IL died at 7:00 pm Saturday, January 24, 2015 at Taylorville Care Center, Taylorville.

She was born January 10, 1918 in Roby, IL, the daughter of Earl and Fannie Brubeck Spring. On July 25, 1941 she married Dean M. Showalter in Taylorville and he preceded her in death on November 11, 1997. Mrs. Showalter was a member of the First United Methodist Church in Taylorville and a former member of United Methodist Women.

Surviving are her children: Gary Showalter and wife Sonia of Kingwood, TX and Diane Nolan and husband Michael of Pingree Grove, IL. Grandchildren: Brian Nolan and wife Colleen of Lake in the Hills, IL, Charlotte Dragon and husband Chris of Denver, CO, and Heather Turnbull and husband Travis of Avon, CO. Great Grandchildren: Christian Nolan, Kyle Nolan, Alexandra Nolan, Moriah Dragon, Gianna Dragon, William Dragon and Jerry Turnbull. She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, one brother Albert Spring and one sister Hazel Howell.

Funeral Services will be held at 11:00 am Thursday, January 29, 2015 at McClure Funeral Home, Taylorville with Rev. Nick Showalter officiating. Visitation will be held from 10:00 am until time of service in the funeral home. Burial will in Camp Butler National Cemetery, Riverton at 12 Noon, Friday, January 30.

Memories of Fern or condolences to the family may be made online at www.mcclurefuneralhome.com.

Vera M. Acheson, 96, of Taylorville, passed away Friday, January 23, 2015 at 6:24 a.m. at her residence in Taylorville. She was born October 10, 1918 in Windsor, IL. The Daughter of Clyde and Leta (Buckley) Henneke. She married Richard Acheson on April 11, 1942 in Van Buren, Arkansas and he later preceded her in death in 1984. She was a homemaker and a member of Davis Memorial Christian Church in Taylorville.

She is survived by her Son: Richard J. Acheson; Several Nieces and Nephews. She was preceded in death by her Parents, Husband, Brother: J.C. Henneke Sisters: Betty Bishop, Juanita Held Cremation rites have been accorded and inurnment will be held at a later date.

Memorials may be made to Christian County Senior Citizens Center 701 W. Adams St. Taylorville, IL 62568 Arrangements by Sutton Memorial Home in Taylorville.

Sign on-line guest book at www.suttonmemorialhome.com.

Janet L. Brown, 64 of Marion, IL passed away peacefully surrounded by her family at 10:08 AM on Sunday, January 25, 2015 at Parkway Manor in Marion.  She was born June 27, 1950 in Springfield, IL daughter of R. Keith and Dorothy (Grant) Blair.  She married Robert “Bob” Brown in Springfield, IL on October 24, 1970 and he survives her in Marion.

In addition to her loving husband of 44 years, she is survived by her sons: Adam (Heather) Brown of Portage, IN and Kurt (Leanne) Brown of St. Louis, MO; Grandsons: Owen and Jack Brown of Portage, IN; Brother: Keith (Peggy) Blair of Bucyrus, OH; Sister: Donna (Wayne) Hadley of Baldwin, WI and Numerous Nieces and Nephews.
She was preceded in death by her parents.

Funeral services will be held Thursday, January 29, 2015 at 11:00 AM at Sutton Memorial Home in Taylorville, IL with Pastor Steve Palmer officiating.  Visitation will be held from 10:00 AM until the time of services on Thursday at Sutton Memorial Home in Taylorville, IL.  Burial will follow at Oak Hill Cemetery in Taylorville, IL.

She was known for her infectious smile and helping out others whenever she could.  She enjoyed spending time with her grandkids and watching the St. Louis Cardinals and Fighting Illini Basketball.  She spent many years as a Teacher’s Aide for Children with hearing difficulties within the Marion School District.

Memorials in her honor may be made to the ALS Association-Local Care Services, 2258 Weldon Parkway, St. Louis, MO 63146 or Hospice of Southern Illinois, 204 Halfway Road, Marion, IL 62959.

Arrangements in care of Sutton Memorial Home, Taylorville, IL.

Sign on-line guest book at www.suttonmemorialhome.com.

Norma J. Cartee, 88, of Owaneco passed away at 6:58 PM on Sunday January 25, 2015 at Meadow Manor Nursing Home in Taylorville. She was born on November 29, 1926 in Pana, Illinois, the daughter of Ernest Louis Page and Marguerite Alice Moomey Godat. On February 27, 1944 she married Charles August Cartee Jr. in Missouri. He preceded her in death on July 26, 1979. Norma previously worked at the Triangle Supper Club in Stonington, was a member of the Owaneco United Methodist Church, and enjoyed crossword puzzles, playing cards, and spending time with her family.

She is survived by her children: Elizabeth Luttrell and husband Bill, of North Dakota, James Cartee and wife Cathy, of Elgin, Illinois, Cathy Bates and companion Jon Davis, of Taylorville, Mary Beth Smith and husband Homer Ramirez, of Corpus Christi, Texas, and David Cartee of Las Vegas, Nevada; Grandchildren: Jimmy Cartee and wife Renee, Jerry Selzer, Rebecca Mizeur and husband Mike, Jeremy Cartee and wife Lisa, Jeff Cartee and wife Lisa, and Sarah Tzakis and husband Andrew; 13 Great Grandchildren; Sisters: Mary Garnett and husband Robert, Elva Law and husband Harold, and Patricia Cook and husband James all of Greensboro, North Carolina; and several nieces, nephews, and cousins. Norma was preceded in death by her parents, husband, grandson: John Cartee, and brothers: James Godat and Michael Godat.

A graveside service followed by burial will be held at 11:00 AM on Wednesday, January, 28, 2015 at the Owaneco Cemetery with Rev. Diwan Tiwade officiating. Memorials may be left to the Owaneco United Methodist Church. McClure Funeral Home in Taylorville is assisting the Cartee family with arrangements.

Memories of Norma or condolences to the family may be left online at www.mcclurefuneralhome.com

Frank J. Kindred, 60, of Taylorville, passed away Friday, January 23, 2015 at 10:24 a.m. at Taylorville Memorial Hospital in Taylorville. She was born November 6, 1954 in Taylorville, IL. The Son of Paul and Helen (Head) Kindred.  Paul worked as a truck driver and was a member of the Taylorville American Legion Post # 73.
He is survived by his Companion: Debbie Sassatelli of Taylorville; Brother: Pete Harrington of Illiopolis, IL; Bob Kindred of Austin, TX; Sisters: Sandy Brown of St. Louis, MO; Annette Tonelle of Taylorville, IL; Several Nieces and Nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents.

Funeral services will be held Wednesday, January 28, 2015 at 10:00 a.m. at Sutton Memorial Home in Taylorville with Pastor Tiney Walker officiating . Burial will be in Camp Butler National Cemetery in Riverton, IL with Military Honors. Visitation will be held Wednesday, January 28, 2015 from 9:00-10:00 a.m. at Sutton Memorial Home in Taylorville.
Memorials may be made to VFW Post 4495 515 N. West Ave. Taylorville,  IL 62568 or American Legion Post #73 110 W. Franklin St. Taylorville,  IL 62568

Arrangements by Sutton Memorial Home in Taylorville.

Sign on-line guest book at www.suttonmemorialhome.com.

Frank J. kindred, 60, of Taylorville, passed away Friday, January 23, 2015 at 10:24 a.m. at Taylorville Memorial Hospital in Taylorville. She was born November 6, 1954 in Taylorville, IL. The Son of Paul and Helen (Head) Kindred.  Paul worked as a truck driver and was a member of the Taylorville American Legion Post # 72.

He is survived by his Companion: Debbie Sassatelli of Taylorville; Brother: Pete Harrington of Illiopolis, IL; Bob Kindred of Austin, TX; Sisters: Sandy Brown of St. Louis, MO; Annette Tonelle of Taylorville, IL; Several Nieces and Nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents.

Funeral services will be held Wednesday, January 28, 2015 at 10:00 a.m. at Sutton Memorial Home in Taylorville with Pastor Tiney Walker officiating . Burial will be in Camp Butler National Cemetery in Riverton, IL. Visitation will be held Wednesday, January 28, 2015 from 9:00-10:00 a.m. at Sutton Memorial Home in Taylorville.

Memorials may be made to VFW Post 4495 515 N. West Ave. Taylorville,  IL 62568 or American Legion Post #72 110 W. Franklin St. Taylorville,  IL 62568

Arrangements by Sutton Memorial Home in Taylorville.

Sign on-line guest book at www.suttonmemorialhome.com. 

Viola M. Durbin, 79, of Taylorville, passed away Thursday, January 22, 2015 at 3:17 a.m. at Meadow Manor Skilled Nursing and Rehabilitation Center, Taylorville. She was born December 1, 1935 in Palmer, IL. The Daughter of William D. England and Fanny (Christian) Porter.   

She is survived by her Daughters: Deborah S. Spencer of Taylorville, IL; Mary Reed of Taylorville, IL; Grandchildren: Shannon (Justin) Harris of St. Louis, MO; Justin (Emily) Gurley of North Carolina; Amber Reed of West Virginia; Great Grandchildren: Clayton, Dirk Guy; Kate and Caden Gurley; Sister: Anna Deremiah of Thomasborow, IL; Nephew: Larry (Carol) Deremiah. She was preceded in death by her Parents, several Aunts and Uncles.

Memorial services will be held Tuesday, January  27, 2015 at 11:00 a.m. at Sutton Memorial Home in Taylorville with Pastor Gerald McPhillips officiating. Burial will be in Oak Hill Cemetery in Taylorville, IL. Visitation will be held Tuesday, January 27, 2015 from 10:00-11:00 a.m. at Sutton Memorial Home in Taylorville.

Arrangements by Sutton Memorial Home in Taylorville.

Sign on-line guest book at www.suttonmemorialhome.com.

Helen E. Hinshaw, 93, of Ramsey, IL, passed away Sunday, January 18, 2015 at 6:25 a.m. at Piatt County Nursing Home in Monticello, IL. She was born October 9, 1921 in Ramsey, IL. The Daughter of Dale and Noy (Casey) Hauskins. She married E. Virgil Hinshaw on February 5, 1949 in Henderson, KY. And he later preceded her in death on July 28, 1988. She served in the United States Navy as a nurse.

She is survived by her Sons: Thomas Hinshaw of Ramsey, IL; Samuel Hinshaw of Bement, IL; Grandchildren: Hypashia Hinshaw, Blake Hinshaw and Aden Hinshaw; Several Nieces and Nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, 4 brothers and 1 sister.

Funeral services will be held Wednesday, January 21, 2015 at 11:00 a.m. at Sutton Memorial Home in Taylorville with Pastor Rodney Blomquist officiating. Burial will be in Ramsey Cemetery in Ramsey, IL with military honors conducted by the Crawford-Hale American Legion Post #95, Vandalia, IL. Visitation will be held Wednesday, January 21, 2015 from 10:00-11:00 a.m. at Sutton Memorial Home in Taylorville.

Arrangements by Sutton Memorial Home in Taylorville.

Sign on-line guest book at www.suttonmemorialhome.com.

Jean M. Mahan, 69 of Taylorville passed away at 1:00 PM on Friday, January 16, 2015 at St. John’s Hospital in Springfield.

Jean was born on December 5, 1945 at Taylorville the daughter of Gino and Nadene (Van Vleet) Lenzi. She married Richard E. “Dick” Mahan on August 7, 1965 at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Taylorville. She was preceded in death by her parents; 3 Brothers and 1 Sister.

Jean worked as a clinical psychologist at Taylorville Correctional Center, retiring in 2004 after many years of service.

Survivors include: Her husband, Richard E. “Dick” Mahan of Taylorville, IL; 2 Sons, Richard (wife, Jill) Mahan of Taylorville, IL and Christopher “Kit” (wife, Kerri) Mahan of Stonington, IL; 2 Grandchildren, Bradley and Hunter Mahan; 2 Sisters.

Funeral services will be held at 10:00 AM on Tuesday, January 20, 2015 at Shafer-Perfetti Funeral Home in Taylorville with Rev. Mariadas Chatla officiating. Burial will follow at Fraley Cemetery in Taylorville.

Visitation will be held on Monday from 5:00-7:00 PM at Shafer-Perfetti Funeral Home.

Shafer-Perfetti Funeral Home in Taylorville is in charge of arrangements.

Condolences may be sent to the family at www.perfettifuneralhome.com

Russell L. Spillman, 83, of Taylorville, passed away Tuesday, January 13, 2015 at 4:25 p.m. at Meadow Manor Skilled Nursing and Rehabilitation in Taylorville. He was born October 28, 1931 in Taylorville, IL. The Son of Oma G. and Marie (Perine) Spillman. He married Marilyn Trost on October 2, 1956 in Taylorville, IL. He retired from maintenance at Caterpillar in Decatur, IL. He was also the owner and operator of Spillman’s Garage in Taylorville. He was a veteran of the United States Army in the Korean Conflict. He loved to go fishing, mushroom hunting, tinkering with motors, enjoyed auctions, and he loved his dogs. He was a member of the Taylorville Moose Lodge #1516 and life member of the VFW Post 4495.

He is survived by his Wife: Marilyn; Daughters: Lynell (James) Slaybaugh of Taylorville, IL; Lisa Sexton of Taylorville, IL ; Granddaughter: Cassidy Sexton of Taylorville, IL; Numerous Nieces and Nephews. He was preceded in death by his Parents, Brother Jay Spillman, Sisters Ruth Hoffman and Dorothy Zini

Funeral services will be held Friday, January 16, 2015 at 10:00 a.m. at Sutton Memorial Home in Taylorville with Pastor Becky Lembke officiating. Inurnment will be in Oak Hill Cemetery in Taylorville, IL at a later date. Visitation will be held Friday, January 16, 2015 from 9:00-10:00 a.m. at Sutton Memorial Home in Taylorville.

Memorials may be made to the American Cancer Society P.O. Box 22718 Oklahoma City, OK 73123-1718 or the Taylorville Food Pantry 223 W. Franklin St. or First United Methodist Church of Taylorville 200 S. Walnut St. Taylorville, IL 62568 or VFW Post 4495 515 N. West Ave. Taylorville, IL 62568

Arrangements by Sutton Memorial Home in Taylorville. 

Sign on-line guest book at www.suttonmemorialhome.com.

Lucille Luise Beemen, 94, of Taylorville, passed away Tuesday, January 13, 2015 at 4:50 a.m. at Taylorville Care Center in Taylorville. She was born September 27, 1920 in Moweaqua, IL. The Daughter of Michael and Mary (Floskie) Raugelis. She married Tony Beemen on March 17, 1940 in Moweaqua, IL She worked as a Radio dispatcher for radio cab company.  

She is survived by her Sons: James Beemen of Taylorville, IL; Charles (Dorothy) Beemen of Springfield, IL; Grandchildren: Jeanine (Daryl) Garner of Taylorville, IL; Jill (Tim) Szabo of Newport, TN; Joy Beemen of Taylorville, IL; Five Great Grandchildren; Two Great-Great Grandchildren; Several Nieces and Nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents, Husband, Son: Terry Beemen Sr; 4 Brothers and 4 Sisters.

Cremation rites were accorded. Inurnment will be held at a later date at Oak Hill Cemetery, Taylorville.

Arrangements by Sutton Memorial Home in Taylorville.

Sign on-line guest book at www.suttonmemorialhome.com.

Joe Lee Vail, 64, of Taylorville, passed away Tuesday, January 13, 2015 at 2:01 p.m. at Taylorville Memorial  Hospital in Taylorville, IL. He was born August 22, 1950 in Taylorville, IL. The Son of Caroline Thompson. He was a retired forklift operator, was an avid Harley Davidson rider and he enjoyed classic cars.

He is survived by his Son: Jesse Aaron (Ally) Vail of Taylorville, IL; Daughters: Jodi Lee (Andrew) Horrell of Waterloo, IL; Colby Lynn (Travis) Creasey of Springfield, IL; Companion: Betty Fabian of Kincaid, IL; Grandchildren: Tyler Cox and Jaelyn Cox of Springfield, IL; Elizabeth Logston, Mya Vail, Dalton Vail, Bella Vail, Willie Vail of Taylorville, IL; Drew Horrell, Brynlie Horrell, Colin Horrell of Waterloo, IL; Brothers: Albert (Laura) Thompson Jr.; David “Bear” Thompson; Charles (Deb) Thompson; Dale Thompson; Sisters: Becky (Terry) Wood; Sally Stauffenecker; Several Nieces and Nephews. He was preceded in death by his Father John Vail and Step-Father Albert Thompson Sr.

Funeral services will be held Saturday, January 17, 2015 at 10:00 a.m. at Sutton Memorial Home in Taylorville. Burial will be at Glen Haven Memorial Gardens in Taylorville. Visitation will be held Saturday, January 17, 2015 from 9:00-10:00 a.m. at Sutton Memorial Home in Taylorville.

Memorials may be made to the American Cancer Society P.O. Box 22718 Oklahoma City, OK 73123-1718

Arrangements by Sutton Memorial Home in Taylorville.

Sign on-line guest book at www.suttonmemorialhome.com.

Ray Bethard, 95, of Taylorville, passed away Thursday, January 8, 2015 at 11:55 p.m. at Taylorville care Center in Taylorville. He was born May 4, 1919 in Morrisonville, IL. The Son of Clarence “Ray” and Muriel Dechart Bethard. He married Luella Jadrny on October 19, 1942 in Norfolk, VA. And she later preceded on July 18, 1994. He was the owner and operator of Rays Welding Shop in Taylorville. He was a member of Trinity Lutheran Church of Taylorville and he loved to work.
He is survived by his Son: Gary (Dana) Bethard of Bluffton, SC; Daughter: Bonnie (Dave) Morris of Decatur, IL; Grandchildren: Greg Bethard, Brett (Jennifer) Bethard, Drew Morris, Rebecca Morris; Great Grandchildren: Ella and Colton Bethard; Sister: Carolyn Yard of Taylorville, IL; Several Nieces and Nephews. He was preceded in death by his Parents, Wife: Luella, 1 grandchild: Christina Morris, Brother: Troy Bethard, Sister: Karlene Vighi.
Funeral services will be held Tuesday, January  13, 2015 at 10:00 a.m. at the Trinity Lutheran Church in Taylorville with Pastor Rodney Blomquist officiating. Burial will be in Oak Hill Cemetery in Taylorville. Visitation will be held Monday, January 12, 2015 from 5:00-7:00 p.m. at Sutton Memorial Home in Taylorville.
Memorials may be made to the Trinity Lutheran Church in Taylorville 1010 N. Webster St. Taylorville, IL 62568
Arrangements by Sutton Memorial Home in Taylorville.
Sign on-line guest book at www.suttonmemorialhome.com.

Mr. Martin J. Vota, 97, of Taylorville, passed away on Jan. 8, 2015 at 5:24 a.m.

He was born June 12, 1917 in Cedar Point, Illinois to Martin and Katherine (Pasqueno) Vota.

A year later, he and his family moved to Jeisyville and eventually Langleyville. He graduated from Taylorville Township High School in 1934 and joined the Civilian Conservation Corps shortly thereafter. During World War II, he enlisted in the Army Air Corp. While in the service, he taught mechanics at Chaunte Air Force Base near Rantoul, Illinois, joined the Flying Cadets out of Sikeston, Missouri and participated in the European Theater in the later part of the war. After returning to the United States, he went to the American Television School in Chicago for television engineering and married Dorothy Spisak on May 30, 1953 at Holy Rosary Catholic Church in Chicago. He and Dorothy then moved to Decatur, Illinois and opened Decatur Television Engineers when WAND-TV began broadcasting. In 1966, Martin and his family moved to Taylorville to continue to sell and repair televisions. He and Dorothy owned and operated Vota TV and Appliances until their retirement in 1989. In his retirement, Martin enjoyed chronicling his family genealogy, emailing extended family in France and Italy, mowing his yard and working outdoors, and spending time with his loved ones.

Martin is survived by his wife Dorothy; children Cathy (Marty) Arnold of Aurora, Illinois, Martin (Deanna) Vota, Cindy Drea and Lori Ward of Taylorville, and Robin Vota of Springfield; grandchildren Matthew and Katie Arnold, Heidi and Haylen Vota, Andrew and Bridget Drea, and Arika and Keegan Ward; nephews Dennis (Carol) Zarr of Palos Hills, Illinois and Richard (Sue) Zarr of Cedar Lake, Indiana; and several other nieces, nephews and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his parents; a brother Joe Vota; and sister Lucy Zarr.

Funeral Services will be held at 10 a.m. Monday, Jan. 12, 2015 at St. Rita’s Catholic Church in Kincaid. Burial will be at Oak Hill Cemetery in Taylorville. The Rev. Mariadas Chatla will officiate.Visitation will be from 4 to 7 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 11, 2015 at Masterson Funeral Home in Kincaid.A guestbook is available at mastersonfh.com.

Dixon D. Zeigler, 93, of Stonington, Illinois died 11:55 pm, January 4th, 2015 at Taylorville Memorial Hospital. He was born June 6, 1921 in Stonington, IL the son of Fritz R. and Catherine Dechert Dixon. He married Sandra Cummings in Branson Missouri.

Dixon grew up on a farm North of Stonington where he farmed until his retirement. He was the youngest of four children. Dick was a lifelong member of the Stonington United Methodist Church. Dixon is remembered as a quiet man of dignified bearing, generous to a fault, and was loved and respected by all who knew him. He will be missed.

Dixon is survived by his stepchildren Chris Cummings of Shelbyville, Kim Myers and Kevin Cummings of Taylorville as well as nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife Sandra Cummings Zeigler, sisters Genevieve Wade and Erma L. Dwyer and his brother Fritz Kenneth Zeigler and wife Edna, as well as his stepdaughter’s husband, Terry Myers.

There will be a private graveside services at Old Stonington Cemetery.

McClure Funeral Home, Taylorville is assisting the family with arrangements.

Remembrances of Dixon or condolences to the family may be sent online at www.mcclurefuneralhome.com.

Mr. William Alec Stone, known to many as “Willie”, 81, of Taylorville, IL formerly of Bulpitt and Kincaid, IL went home to be with the Lord at 7:35 A.M. Saturday, January 3, 2015.

Willie was born to Lithuanian immigrants Enoch and Anna (Dabulski) Stone on August 18, 1933 in Bulpitt, IL.  He was known in the Kincaid area for his excellence as an all-around athlete.  During his high school years, he was named to all-state teams in Basketball, football and track.  He was also a long-time holder of the state shot-put record.  He received a full scholarship in football to the University of Arkansas.  However, family needs brought him back to the Midland area to care for his widowed mother. 

Mr. Stone served in the U.S. Army from 1953 to 1955 and married JoAnn Tonks on July 12, 1961 in Taylorville, IL. 

Will became a coal miner at the Peabody Mine #10 near Pawnee in 1960 from which he retired in 1991.  Upon his retirement, Will had a long-time dream of founding and operating a coal mining museum honoring all area coal miners.  The museum became a reality in 2003 and had its humble beginnings just off the Taylorville Square.  More recently, the museum moved and is currently housed at the old Capital Theater Building on the East side of the square.  The museum holds much history and treasures from coal miners and miners around Central Illinois.  The museum will continue to operate under new management.  The Christian County Coal Mining Museum was featured in several area newspaper articles, as well as several area news programs.  PBS also aired a special segment featuring the coal-mining museum.  Will also donated a monument to all area coal miners, which sits on the North lawn of the courthouse.  Mr. Stone was a member of Evangelical Free Church in Taylorville.

Will was a dedicated family man and will be missed by his loving wife JoAnn Stone of Taylorville, IL son Paul (Donna) Mann of Rantoul, IL daughter Linda (Ted) Mann-Fleming of Taylorville, IL 5 grandchildren and 13 great grandchildren along with nieces, nephews and many friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents Enoch and Anna, a brother Julius E. Stone and 2 half-brothers Anthony (Tony) Wasiloski and Joseph Wasiloski.

Funeral services will be held at 1:00 P.M. Tuesday, January 6, 2015 at Masterson Funeral Home in Kincaid.  Pastor Jim Wolfe will officiate.  Burial will follow in Oak Hill Cemetery, Taylorville, IL.  Visitation for Willie Stone will be held from 11:00 A.M. until service time at Masterson Funeral Home. 

Memorials may be made to the Christian County Coal Mining Museum – 1225 W. Main Cross – Taylorville, IL - 62568

Mr. William Alec Stone, known to many as “Willie”, 81, of Taylorville, IL formerly of Bulpitt and Kincaid, IL went home to be with the Lord at 7:35 A.M. Saturday, January 3, 2015.

Willie was born to Lithuanian immigrants Enoch and Anna (Dabulski) Stone on August 18, 1933 in Bulpitt, IL.  He was known in the Kincaid area for his excellence as an all-around athlete.  During his high school years, he was named to all-state teams in Basketball, football and track.  He was also a long-time holder of the state shot-put record.  He received a full scholarship in football to the University of Arkansas.  However, family needs brought him back to the Midland area to care for his widowed mother. 

Mr. Stone served in the U.S. Army from 1953 to 1955 and married JoAnn Tonks on July 12, 1961 in Taylorville, IL. 

Will became a coal miner at the Peabody Mine #10 near Pawnee in 1960 from which he retired in 1991.  Upon his retirement, Will had a long-time dream of founding and operating a coal mining museum honoring all area coal miners.  The museum became a reality in 2003 and had its humble beginnings just off the Taylorville Square.  More recently, the museum moved and is currently housed at the old Capital Theater Building on the East side of the square.  The museum holds much history and treasures from coal miners and miners around Central Illinois.  The museum will continue to operate under new management.  The Christian County Coal Mining Museum was featured in several area newspaper articles, as well as several area news programs.  PBS also aired a special segment featuring the coal-mining museum.  Will also donated a monument to all area coal miners, which sits on the North lawn of the courthouse.  Mr. Stone was a member of Evangelical Free Church in Taylorville.

Will was a dedicated family man and will be missed by his loving wife JoAnn Stone of Taylorville, IL son Paul (Donna) Mann of Rantoul, IL daughter Linda (Ted) Mann-Fleming of Taylorville, IL 5 grandchildren and 13 great grandchildren along with nieces, nephews and many friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents Enoch and Anna, a brother Julius E. Stone and 2 half-brothers Anthony (Tony) Wasiloski and Joseph Wasiloski.

Funeral services will be held at 1:00 P.M. Tuesday, January 6, 2015 at Masterson Funeral Home in Kincaid.  Pastor Jim Wolfe will officiate.  Burial will follow in Oak Hill Cemetery, Taylorville, IL.  Visitation for Willie Stone will be held from 11:00 A.M. until service time at Masterson Funeral Home. 

Memorials may be made to the Christian County Coal Mining Museum – 1225 W. Main Cross – Taylorville, IL - 62568

Mr. William Alec Stone, known to many as “Willie”, 81, of Taylorville, IL formerly of Bulpitt and Kincaid, IL went home to be with the Lord at 7:35 A.M. Saturday, January 3, 2015.

 Willie was born to Lithuanian immigrants Enoch and Anna (Dabulski) Stone on August 18, 1933 in Bulpitt, IL.  He was known in the Kincaid area for his excellence as an all-around athlete.  During his high school years, he was named to all-state teams in Basketball, football and track.  He was also a long-time holder of the state shot-put record.  He received a full scholarship in football to the University of Arkansas.  However, family needs brought him back to the Midland area to care for his widowed mother. 

 Mr. Stone served in the U.S. Army from 1953 to 1955 and married JoAnn Tonks on July 12, 1961 in Taylorville, IL. 

 Will became a coal miner at the Peabody Mine #10 near Pawnee in 1960 from which he retired in 1991.  Upon his retirement, Will had a long-time dream of founding and operating a coal mining museum honoring all area coal miners.  The museum became a reality in 2003 and had its humble beginnings just off the Taylorville Square.  More recently, the museum moved and is currently housed at the old Capital Theater Building on the East side of the square.  The museum holds much history and treasures from coal miners and miners around Central Illinois.  The museum will continue to operate under new management.  The Christian County Coal Mining Museum was featured in several area newspaper articles, as well as several area news programs.  PBS also aired a special segment featuring the coal-mining museum.  Will also donated a monument to all area coal miners, which sits on the North lawn of the courthouse.  Mr. Stone was a member of Evangelical Free Church in Taylorville.

 Will was a dedicated family man and will be missed by his loving wife JoAnn Stone of Taylorville, IL son Paul (Donna) Mann of Rantoul, IL daughter Linda (Ted) Mann-Fleming of Taylorville, IL 5 grandchildren and 13 great grandchildren along with nieces, nephews and many friends.

 He was preceded in death by his parents Enoch and Anna, a brother Julius E. Stone and 2 half-brothers Anthony (Tony) Wasiloski and Joseph Wasiloski.

 Funeral services will be held at 1:00 P.M. Tuesday, January 6, 2015 at Masterson Funeral Home in Kincaid.  Pastor Jim Wolfe will officiate.  Burial will follow in Oak Hill Cemetery, Taylorville, IL.  Visitation for Willie Stone will be held from 11:00 A.M. until service time at Masterson Funeral Home. 

 Memorials may be made to the Christian County Coal Mining Museum – 1225 W. Main Cross – Taylorville, IL - 62568

Phillip D. Dowdy, 62, of Blue Mound, passed away Friday, January 2, 2015 at 9:05 a.m. at Decatur Memorial Hospital in Decatur, IL. He was born October 20, 1952 in Taylorville, IL. The Son of Delmar “Jay” and LaDonne (Lamb) Dowdy. He married Sue Hall on November 8, 1974 in Palmer, IL. He retired from Norfolk Southern Railroad as an Engineer. 

He is survived by his Wife: Sue of Blue Mound, IL; Sons: Erik (Kam) Dowdy of Decatur, IL; Luke Dowdy and Fiancé Bethany Nihiser of Decatur, IL; Grandchild: Trenton Dowdy of Decatur, IL; Sisters: Glenna Sue (Pat) Wolf of Morrisonville, IL; Jayne (Rick) Waldeck of Farmersville, IL; Uncle: Bill Dowdy of Winchester, KY; Aunts: Betty Sikes of Taylorville, IL; Carol Blankenship of Springfield, IL; LouAnn Lamb of Taylorville, IL; JoAnn Lamb of OFallon, MO; Several Nieces, Nephews and Cousins. He was preceded in death by his parents and Grandparents.

Funeral services will be held Tuesday, January 6, 2015 at 11:00 a.m. at Sutton Memorial Home in Taylorville with Pastor Chad Foster officiating. Burial will be in Anderson Cemetery in Palmer, IL. Visitation will be held Tuesday, January 6, 2015 from 9:00-11:00 a.m. at Sutton Memorial Home in Taylorville.

Arrangements by Sutton Memorial Home in Taylorville. 

Margaret Louise Porter, 70, of Taylorville, IL died at 8:57 am Friday, January 2, 2015 at St. John’s Hospital, Springfield.

 She was born January 7, 1944 in Taylorville, IL the daughter of Ernest and Selma McIntosh Turner.  On January 18, 1966 she married Clifford Allen Porter in Cleveland, OH. He preceded her in death on May 26, 1997.  Margaret retired in 2004 as a Respiratory Therapist at St. John’s Hospital.  She was very family oriented and enjoyed doing crafts.  She was a member of Grace Memorial Church in Edinburg.

 Surviving are her children: Patrick J. Porter of Decatur, IL and Kristina Mercer and husband Glynn of S. Roxanna, IL; Granddaughter: Kristal Price and husband Anthony of Morrisonville; Great Grandchild: Gage Price of Morrisonville; 2 sisters: Mary Porter of Taylorville and Jean Steele of Palmer.  There are several nieces, nephews and cousins.  She was preceded in death by her husband, parents and 5 Brothers: Leroy Turner, Jerry Turner, Pat Turner, Sam Turner and Kenny Turner.

Memorial Services will be held at 2:00 pm Tuesday, January 6 at McClure Funeral Home, Taylorville. Visitation will be held from 5:00 pm – 7:00 pm Monday at McClure Funeral Home, Taylorville.

 Memories of Margaret or condolences to the family may be sent online at www.mcclurefuneralhome.com.  

David Walter Pittman, 91, of Taylorville, IL died at 4:28 pm Tuesday, December 30, 2014 at Taylorville Care Center.

 He was born November 25, 1923 in Lewiston, IL, the son of Ross Franklin and Frances Gibble Pittman.  On May 26, 1946 he married Kathryn “Kay” Diers in Petersburg, IL.  She preceded him in death on January 27, 1985. 

 David graduated from Springfield High School in 1941 and Millikin University in 1949.  He served with the U.S. Army from 1943 - 1946 serving in the South Pacific. He was an accountant working for the U.S. Treasury Department, Hopper Paper Company, Georgia-Pacific Corporation, and the State of Illinois Department of Corrections, and retired in December 1989. He was an active member of Trinity Lutheran Church in Taylorville since 1959 serving in several offices and committees of the Church as an elected, appointed or volunteer member.  He was the coordinator for Trinity Lutheran Foster Parents since 1985. He was also a Charter Member of the Taylorville Optimist Club.

 Surviving is his Son: David W. Pittman II and wife Kathy of Durham, NC; Daughter: Chriss Altis and husband Marvin of Wisconsin Rapids, WI; Grandchildren: David W. Pittman III and wife Candace of Sacramento, CA, Kevin M. Pittman and wife Natalie of Santa Monica, Dallas M. Pittman and wife Heather of Joliet, IL, Erin A. Altis-Hotchkiss of Merril, WI, and Adam R. Altis and wife Jessica of Sussix, WI; Great Grandchildren: David W. Pittman IV of Sacramento, CA, Kailey Schoepf of Ft. Worth, TX, Dylan Schoepf of Sacramento, CA, Austin Hotchkiss of Merril, WI, Aiden Hutchkiss of Merril, WI, and Sophie Altis of Sussixm WI. Great-great Granchild: Aaliyah Lynn of Ft. Worth, TX; Sister: Roselle L. Goepfert of Dallas, TX.

 Funeral Services will be held at 10:30 am Monday, January 5 at Trinity Lutheran Church in Taylorville with Pastor Rodney Blomquist officiating.  Burial will be in Oak Hill Cemetery.  Visitation will be held from 4:00 pm – 7:00 pm Sunday at McClure Funeral Home, Taylorville. McClure Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.

 Memorials may be made to Trinity Lutheran Church, 1010 N. Webster, Taylorville, IL, 62568.

 Memories of Dave or condolences to the family may be sent online at www.mcclurefuneralhome.com.

 He was born July 7, 1948 in Taylorville the son of Louis and Lorean Nickles Myers.  On June 23, 1984 he married Kim E. Cummings at Good Hope Church in Carlinville, IL.  Terry had been employed by Freeman United Coal Company at Crown 2 and Crown 3 and retired after 30 years of service.  He had also been a prior member of the Mine Rescue Team.

 Surviving are his wife: Kim Myers of Taylorville; Sons: Derrick Myers and wife Jamie of Stonington and Skyler Myers of Granite City; Grandchild: Jerren Myers of Stonington, and a Brother: Moody L. Myers of Taylorville.  He was preceded in death by his parents.

 Funeral Services will be held at 11:00 am Tuesday, January 6 at McClure Funeral Home with Rev. Gilbert Wellenreiter officiating.  Burial will be in Glenhaven Memorial Gardens, Taylorville.  Visitation will be held from 10:00 am until 11 at McClure Funeral Home on Tuesday.

 Memories of Terry or condolences to the family may be sent online at www.mcclurefuneralhome.com