Dorothy “Dot” Shivers, 92, formerly of Taylorville and Savoy, IL passed away on Tuesday, March 27, 2018 at the Farmer City Nursing Home in Farmer City, IL.
Dot was born on September 28, 1925 in Stonington, IL to Archie and Yolande (Jouglet) Glasgow. She married Raymond LaBrecque on June 10, 1944. She later married Robert Shivers in 1976.
Survivors include her son, Bruce (Annette) LaBrecque of Champaign; Granddaughters Stacey (Terry) Cole, Nikki (Chad) Slack, and Kate LaBrecque; and 6 great-grandchildren.
Her daughter, Donna Rae LaBrecque, preceded her in death.
Dot collected angel figurines, loved bingo, trips to Vegas, garage sales, and attending auctions. She shared her kind and giving heart with her family and friends. For the last few years, Dot’s son provided the same kind and giving care to her, for which her family will be forever grateful.
Morgan Funeral Home is handling arrangements. There will be a private service and no visitation.
Special thanks to the staff at the Farmer City Nursing Home and Transitions Hospice.

Eric Neal, 46 of Taylorville passed away on Wednesday, March 28, 2018 at 5:35 p.m. at St. John’s Hospital in Springfield. He was born on July 2, 1971 in Springfield, IL the son of John and Doris Turner. He worked as a dispatcher for Norfolk and Southern Railroad in Decatur.
Surviving are his Daughters: Jordan Ann Neal of Greenville, IL, and Jayden Rene Neal of Kincaid, IL; Parents: Doris and John Turner of Pana, IL; Brother: Brian Neal of St. Louis MO; Sister: Cassie (Kenny) Lee of Normal, IL; Several nieces, nephews, and cousins. He was preceded in death by his grandparents: LaVerne and Robert Tex; and brother: Khristan Neal and Sister Sable Walker.  
Visitation will be held on Saturday, March 31, 2018 from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon at Sutton Memorial Home in Taylorville, IL with funeral service starting at noon with pastor Steve Switzer officiating. Burial will be in Owaneco Cemetery in Owaneco, IL.
Memorials may be made to Loving Arms Crisis Pregnancy Center 500 N Walnut St, Taylorville, IL 62568
Sutton Memorial Home in Taylorville is assisting the family with arrangements.
Please sign our on-line guest book at www.suttonmemorialhome.com. 

Janice Kay Dobyns-Sexton, 67 of Taylorville passed away at 10:45a.m. on Tuesday, March 27, 2018 in her home.  She was born on April 24, 1950 in Taylorville, the daughter of Thomas and Aline (Mammen) Dobyns.  She married Terrence Estel Sexton on June 2, 1967 in Taylorville.  Terry preceded her in death on March 9, 2018.  Janice was a homemaker and a member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church.  She enjoyed reading, going to rummage sales and loved her time spent camping with Terry.  

She is survived by her daughters: Renee Masterson and Barbara Sexton of Taylorville; grandchildren: Jacob Masterson, Zachary Geller, Paige Taylor, and Stone Taylor; siblings: Helen Dobyns-Sheedy of Palmer and Terry Dobyns of Missouri.  She was preceded in death by her parents; husband; grandsons: Michael Masterson Jr. and Wade Taylor; and siblings: Thomas Dobyns, Jerry Dobyns, Sheila Keller, Betty Jackson, Vivian Poorman, and Rocky Dobyns.  

Janice will be cremated.  The family will host a celebration of life for Janice and Terry at a later date. 

McClure Funeral Home and Cremation Services in Taylorville is handling arrangements.  Memories of Janice, or condolences to the family, may be left online at www.mcclurefuneralhome.com.

Evelyn B. Sisco, 84 of Pana, Formerly of Taylorville passed away on Friday, March 16, 2018 at 1:00 a.m. at Memorial Medical Center in Springfield, IL.

Burial will be held at Camp Butler National Cemetery in Springfield, IL at a later date.

Sutton Memorial Home in Taylorville is assisting the family with arrangements.
Please sign our on-line guest book at www.suttonmemorialhome.com.

Rock L. Allen, 59 of Taylorville passed away on Tuesday, March 27, 2018 at 12:49 p.m. at Memorial Medical Center in Springfield. He was born on May 11, 1958 in Taylorville, IL the Son of Eugene F. and Dorothy M. (Tyler) Allen. He married Debra L. Pugsley on November 15, 1982 in Taylorville IL. He drove the van for the Christian County Senior Citizens Center in Taylorville, IL. Rock was a 32nd degree Master Mason, member of Mound Lodge #122 AF & AM, Pana Eagles Club and the First Church of the Nazarene in Taylorville. He graduated from Taylorville High school in the Class of 1976 and he played in several rock bands as the lead singer. He enjoyed Fishing, the outdoors and he was a people person.  

Surviving are his Wife: Debbie Allen of Taylorville, IL; Daughter: Shaunna (Tre) Nash of Taylorville, IL; Grandchildren: Austin Pistorius, Dyzaac, Elijah, Noah, and Camille Nash; Brothers: Harry (Joann) Allen of Taylorville, IL Robby Allen of Taylorville, IL; Sisters: Jayandra Rennick of Missouri, Jeannie (Rick) Rhodes of Decatur, IL; his cat: Bobby and Several Nieces, Nephews and Cousins. He was preceded in death by his Parents and his Sister Marilyn Galloway.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, April 7, 2018 at 10:30 a.m. at the First Church of the Nazarene in Taylorville.
Memorials may be made to the wishes of the family C/O: Sutton Memorial Home 327 N. Clay St. Taylorville, IL 62568.

Sutton Memorial Home in Taylorville is assisting the family with arrangements.
Please sign our on-line guest book at www.suttonmemorialhome.com.

Delores M. McGehee-Sledge, 83, of Wonder Lake, Illinois passed away at 7:05a.m. on Tuesday, March 27, 2018 in her home. She was born on May 7, 1934 to Lloyd and Bernadine Smith of Palmer, Illinois, the eldest of twelve children.
Married to William McGehee in 1953, she was mother to fourteen children. She was a military wife and lived in Germany as well as several Army bases in the U.S. In her lifetime she has experienced the grief of the death of two of her children, (Deborah in 2009 and Donna in 2018). Following William’s death she married Ross Sledge and he also preceded her in death. Two of her sons have served in the U.S. Army with one of them serving in Vietnam. As with all families, she has lived through good times as well as bad times and if all experience is valuable, she was a truly wealthy woman.

Through all of it she remained extremely strong and always stubborn to the very end and was truly a loving mother, a devoted wife and a loving and caring sister and daughter. She was also called “mom” by many friends of the family who loved her and learned from her as well. The world will seem like such an empty place to so many who knew her, and she will truly be missed. With the suffering over the past two years from a truly horrible disease, it is a good feeling to know that she has gone on to get her rest and may now know true joy.

Delores is survived by her children: Billy Kerney of Wonder Lake, Robert McGehee of Wonder Lake, Edward McGehee (Annette) of Rosamond, Donald McGehee (Gloria) of Denton, Texas, Randy McGehee (Marie) of Wonder Lake, Timothy McGehee (Susan) of Dallas, Texas, and Michael McGehee of McCullom Lake; 24 grandchildren and 37 great grandchildren; siblings: Sharon Skinner (Benjamin) of Palmer, Cinda Hayes (Don) of Taylorville, Glenda Brewer of Taylorville, Karen Dorr (Roger) of Taylorville, Billene Lynch (Danny) of Florida, Vernon Smith (Sherry) of Pana, and Mary Ann Buchanan (Ken) of Taylorville; stepchildren, (children):Thomas Sledge, Evelyn Sledge, Brenda Sledge, and Spring Sledge; and numerous nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents; 2 husbands; daughters: Deborah Sledge and Donna Brown; siblings: Theresa Hughes, Robert Smith, Ronald Smith and Richard Smith; and step-children: Audrey Sledge and Richard Sledge.

Visitation for Delores will be held from 5 until 7p.m. on Thursday, March 29, 2018 at McClure Funeral Home in Taylorville. The funeral service will take place at 10a.m. on Friday, March 30 at McClure Funeral Home in Taylorville with Rev. Chad Foster officiating. Following the service Delores will be cremated and an inurnment will take place at 10a.m. on Saturday, March 31 at Oak Hill Cemetery in Taylorville.

McClure Funeral Home and Cremation Services in Taylorville is assisting the family with arrangements. Memories of Delores, or condolences to the family, may be left online at www.mcclurefuneralhome.com.

Mary Ann Anderson, 83, of Carlinville, IL, formerly of Taylorville, IL, passed away at 3:22 p.m. on Sunday, March 25, 2018 at Carlinville Rehabilitation and Health Care Center, in Carlinville, IL.

Mary Ann was born October 4, 1934 in Palmer, IL, the daughter of William and Anna (Wood) Cummings.  She married Don Anderson, and he preceded her in death.

Mary Ann was a homemaker for much of her life, raising her three sons.  She also worked as an in-home healthcare provider, and in the E.R. at the local hospital.  Mary Ann also worked with her sister at the Starlite Restaurant in Kincaid for many years.  She was a great cook, and she enjoyed the trips she would take to Las Vegas with her sisters.

She was also preceded in death by her parents; sisters, Shelby Veil and Helen Booker; and brother, Bill Cummings.

Mary Ann is survived by her sons, Danny (wife, Donna) Woods of Onarga, IL, and Stephen and David Woods both of Springfield, IL; grandchildren, Amy Dick of Deland, IL, Ryan Woods of Tuscola, IL, and Stephanie Woods of Taylorville, IL; 5 great grandchildren; siblings, Grace Cornwell of Stockton, CA, Jean Long of Taylorville, IL, Bob Cummings of Kincaid, IL, Carolyn Summers of Sessor, IL, and Richard Cummings of Sessor, IL; and many nieces and nephews.

Graveside Ceremony: 2:00 p.m. on Wednesday, March 28, 2018 at Oak Hill Cemetery in Taylorville, IL with Rev. Jim Ferrill officiating.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to: Alzheimer’s Association, 2309 W. White Oaks Dr. Suite E, Springfield, IL 62704.

Shafer-Perfetti & Assalley Funeral Home, 202 W. Franklin St., Taylorville, IL 62568 has been entrusted with ceremonies.

Please visit www.assalleyfuneralhomes.com to offer condolences to the family.

Ava Monroe Denbow, was born at 8:54 a.m. on Saturday, March 24, 2018, the first child of David Denbow and Brianna Buttrey, and she passed away at 2:40 a.m., on Sunday, March 25, 2018 at St. John’s Hospital, in Springfield, IL.  

She was preceded in death by her great grandmothers, Ruth Denbow and Kimberly Passoni.

Ava Monroe is survived by her parents, David Denbow and Brianna Buttrey of Kincaid, IL; maternal grandparents, Jack Buttrey of Taylorville, IL and Jennifer Buttrey of St. Louis, MO; paternal grandparents, Michael Harris of Springfield, IL and Janet Denbow of Taylorville, IL; great grandfathers, Danny Denbow of Waynesville, MO and Nick Passoni of Stonington, IL; and several aunts, uncles, and cousins.

Cremation will be accorded prior to ceremonies.

Memorial Ceremony and Gathering: 4:30 p.m. on Monday, April 2, 2018 at Shafer-Perfetti & Assalley Funeral Home, 202 W. Franklin St., Taylorville, IL 62568, with Rev. Msgr. David S. Lantz officiating.  A gathering will follow the ceremony until 6:00 p.m.

Memorial Contributions may be made to: HSHS St. John’s Children’s Hospital, 800 E. Carpenter St., Springfield, IL 62769.

Please visit www.assalleyfuneralhomes.com to offer condolences to the family.

Dolores Mae Shoup, 73, of Taylorville, passed away at 12:18 a.m. on Saturday, March 24, 2018 at her residence.

Dolores was born May 28, 1944 in Detroit, MI, the daughter of Harold and Rose Anna (High) Shoup.  She was a long-time member of Trinity Lutheran Church, in Taylorville, and was employed by Christian County Mental Health for many years.

She was preceded in death by her parents.

Dolores is survived by her Trinity Lutheran Church family, and numerous friends.

Visitation & Funeral Ceremony: Friends may pay their respects from 9:00 a.m. until the time of ceremony at 10:00 a.m. on Friday, March 30, 2018 at Trinity Lutheran Church, 1010 N. Webster St., Taylorville, IL 62568, with Rev. Rodney Blomquist, celebrant.

Interment will follow at Morrisonville Cemetery, in Morrisonville, IL.

Memorial Contributions may be made to: Trinity Lutheran Church, 1010 N. Webster St., Taylorville, IL 62568.

Perfetti-Assalley Funeral Home, 304 Carlin St., Morrisonville, IL 62546 has been entrusted with ceremonies.

Please visit www.assalleyfuneralhomes.com to offer condolences to the family.

Janet Marie (Davis) Blackstone, 59 of Cumming, GA, formerly of Pana, passed away Friday, March 23, 2018 at Memorial Medical Center in Springfield, IL. She was born June 4, 1958 in Independence, MO to the late Walter & Marie (Mose) Davis. She married Donald L. Blackstone, Sr. on March 29, 1996 in Taylorville, IL. March 29 would have marked their 22^nd wedding anniversary although they had been together for 33 years. After completing Cosmetology School, she was a hair stylist for over 30 years. She also spent over 9 years as a bus driver for the Forsyth County Schools Transportation Department and managed a Lil Ceaser’s Pizza Place. Her hobbies included bowling and boating but most importantly spending time with her family.

Janet is survived by her husband Donald and children: Amy Ruth Blackstone of Fairdale, KY, Donald L. (Heather) Blackstone, Jr. of Charlestown, IN, Marjorie (Shannon) Blackstone-Tucker of Kennesaw, GA, Daniel J. Blackstone, Brandon Roy Blackstone, Steven Tyler Blackstone, Aaron Edwin Blackstone and Andrew Benjamin Blackstone all of Cumming, GA; 11 grandchildren; brother Dick Davis; sister Norma (Joe) Cervi; sister-in-law Alice Davis; and several nieces & nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents; brother Jim Davis; sister Barb Rodman; and niece Savannah Cervi.

Funeral Services for Janet will be held Tuesday, March 27, 2018 in McCracken-Dean Funeral Home at 1:00 p.m. with Pastor Ava Witsman officiating.  Burial will be in Rosemond Grove Cemetery, Rosamond, IL. Visitation will be Monday, March 26, 2018 from 5:00-7:00 p.m. at McCracken-Dean Funeral Home.

Memorials in Janet’s honor may be made to her family to help with travel expenses and will be accepted by McCracken-Dean Funeral Home, who is assisting the family.

www.mdfh.com

Glenn Carl Fesser, 81, of Morrisonville, IL passed away at 10:43 p.m. on Thursday, March 22, 2018, at Memorial Medical Center in Springfield, IL.
 
Glenn was born February 12, 1937 in rural Christian County, the son of Carl Henry Christian and Leona (Folkerts) Fesser.  He married Mary Jane Van Pelt on July 9, 1966 at St. John’s Lutheran Church, in Palmer, NE.

Glenn graduated from Morrisonville High School in 1955.  He then partnered with his brother, Larry, farming and operating a hog confinement operation.  He was a life long member of Trinity Lutheran Church in Harvel, IL, where he was an elder, trustee, past Chairman of the Congregation, Sunday school teacher, and a counselor for the Walther League.  He also proudly served his country in the Air National Guard for 6 years.  Glenn was a past president and member of the Montgomery County Pork Producers, Morrisonville Farmers Co-Op Elevator Board, member of the Land of Lincoln United Cerebral Palsy Board, as well as a past president of the Calico Twirlers Square Dance Club.  He enjoyed square dancing, antique tractors, and camping, but most of all he enjoyed taking his grandchildren fishing.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

Glenn is survived by his wife, Mary Jane Fesser of Morrisonville, IL; daughters, Carla (husband, Phil) Fleigle of Heyworth, IL, Brenda Fesser of Springfield, IL, and Dana (husband, Chris) Pinnow of Cartersville, GA; grandchildren, Jared and Kayla Fleigle of Heyworth, IL, and Shawn and Isaac Pinnow of Cartersville, GA; siblings, Larry (wife, Joyce) Fesser of Farmersville, IL, Alice (husband, Terry) Land of Farmersville, IL, and Dale (wife, Veronica) Fesser of Rochester, IL; and several nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Visitation: The family will receive guests from 4:00 – 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday, March 27, 2018 at Trinity Lutheran Church, 402 Monroe St., Harvel, IL 62538.

Funeral Ceremony: 10:00 a.m., on Wednesday, March 28, 2018 at Trinity Lutheran Church, in Harvel, IL, with Pastor Scott Busacker celebrant.

Interment will follow at Morrisonville Cemetery. 

Memorial Contributions may be made to: Trinity Lutheran Church, 402 Monroe St., Harvel, IL 62538, or to Bethesda Lutheran Communities, 600 Hoffmann Dr., Watertown, WI 53094.

Perfetti-Assalley Funeral Home, 304 Carlin St., Morrisonville, IL 62546 has been entrusted with ceremonies.

Please visit www.assalleyfuneralhomes.com to offer condolences to the family.

Laura June DeClerck, 93 of Assumption, died March 23, 2018, in Heritage Health, Pana, IL.

Funeral services will be 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, March 27, 2018 in Tower Hill Christian Church, Tower Hill, IL. Visitation will be one hour prior to service time. Burial will be in St. Mary’s Cemetery, Assumption, IL. Memorials may be made to American Diabetes Association or Assumption VFW Tacusah Post #6577.

June was born July 8, 1924 in Buffalo, IL, the daughter of Harrison Andrew and Ruth Lee (Wallace) Hudson. She married Robert Leonard Smith May 4, 1944 in Mechanicsburg, IL. He preceded her in death September 11, 2000. She later married Raymond Joseph “Red” DeClerck August 5, 1972 in Assumption, IL. He preceded her in death January 17, 2001.

June was a member of First Christian Church of Assumption, VFW Auxiliary #6577 and the Assumption Historical Society. She graduated from Tri-City High School in Buffalo, IL and attended Eastern Illinois University in Charleston, IL. June was a homemaker and a former teacher, who taught in two different one room school houses.

Surviving are her children: Leonard Charles (Annie) Smith of Cobden, IL, Tessa Giles of Assumption, IL, Susie (Carroll) Jones of Assumption, IL, Laura (Jim) Black of Palm Coast, FL, Mary Beth Baker of Assumption, IL; ten grandchildren, fourteen great-grandchildren, three step great-grandchildren and one great-great grandchild.

Preceding her in death are her husband, parents, three brothers, two sisters and son-in-law Jerry Giles.

Seitz Funeral Home, Assumption has been entrusted with the care and service arrangements. Condolences for the family may be left at www.seitzfh.com.

Nancy Carole Dooley, 72, of Taylorville, formerly of Stonington, passed away at 7:11a.m. on Thursday, March 22, 2018 at Hickory Estates in Taylorville.  She was born on November 8, 1945 in Hillsboro, the daughter of Otis Henry and Wilma Jane (Davidson) Light.  On April 16, 1966 she married Larry Eugene Dooley in Taylorville.  She graduated from Taylorville High School in 1963 and always enjoyed her lunches with the girls of ’63.  Nancy was a dedicated member of the Joy Assembly Church in Stonington where she served faithfully as secretary for over 20 years.  She volunteered many hours with the Inter Church Council Food Pantry in Blue Mound.  In her free time, she enjoyed shopping and crafts, but most of all she loved spending time with her family, especially her grandchildren who she adored.  

Nancy is survived by her loving family; husband: Larry Dooley of Taylorville; son: Rodney Dooley (Trisha) of Atoka, Tennessee and their children Kali Dooley and Dallas Dooley; daughter: Monica Wamsley (Jon) of Taylorville and their children: Jesse Bertoldo and Cody Bertoldo; son: Jason Dooley (Rhea) of Stonington and their children: Lane Dooley, Lydia Dooley, Lillian Dooley, and Luke Dooley; son: Jeremy Dooley (Amber) of Mt. Auburn and their children: Blake Dooley, Clayton Dooley, Jacob Dooley, and Nathan Dooley; brother: Joseph Light of Hillsboro; step-sister: Jean Clark of Willey’s Station; and many nieces and nephews.  She was preceded in death by her parents; sister: Barbara Mink; brother: William Light; daughter: Deanna Jo Dooley; and granddaughter: Lucy Wamsley.  

A funeral service for Nancy will be held at 10:00a.m. on Tuesday, March 27, 2018 at McClure Funeral Home in Taylorville with Rev. Tim Moats officiating.  Visitation will be on Monday from 5 until 7p.m. at the funeral home.  Following the funeral, Nancy will be cremated, and a private family inurnment will be held at Old Stonington Cemetery in Stonington. 

Memorials may be made to Joy Assembly Church or Hope House of Central Illinois.  McClure Funeral Home and Cremation Services in Taylorville is assisting the family with arrangements. 

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

Martha A. Marsaglia, 79, of Taylorville, passed away at 6:45 p.m. on Sunday, March 18, 2018 at Meadow Manor Skilled Nursing and Rehabilitation Center, in Taylorville.

Martha was born November 19, 1938 in Taylorville, the daughter of Rev. B.K. and Mary Hawkins Beaty.  She married Frank Marsaglia November 22, 1962, at the Church of the Nazarene in Taylorville.

Martha graduated from Taylorville High School in 1956.  After high school, she worked for My Store, before serving as a custodian for the First United Methodist Church of Taylorville and the Taylorville Public Library for over 36 years.  Martha enjoyed cooking and entertaining, but most of all she enjoyed spending time with her grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents; son, Mark Marsaglia; brothers, Bob, Bryon, Lyle, and William Beaty; and sister, Marjorie “Peg” Beaty.

Martha is survived by her husband, Frank Marsaglia of Taylorville; son, Michael (wife, Kiley) Marsaglia of Chatham; grandchildren, Victoria (husband, Garrett) Wilson of Mexico, MO, Bryce Marsaglia of Taylorville, and Luke and Sophia Marsaglia of Chatham; 3 great grandchildren; and several nieces, nephews, and cousins.

A private family graveside ceremony will be held at Oak Hill Cemetery, with Pastor Becky Lembke officiating.

Shafer-Perfetti & Assalley Funeral Home, 202 W. Franklin St., Taylorville, IL 62568 has been entrusted with ceremonies.

Please visit www.assalleyfuneralhomes.com to offer condolences to the family.

Billie Leon Dickey, 81 of Taylorville passed away at 7:56a.m. on Saturday, March 17, 2018 at Memorial Medical Center in Springfield.  He was born on January 1, 1937 in Decatur, the son of Lester Guy and Loridine Izola (Ellison) Dickey.  He married Deborah Tester on December 13, 1985 in Taylorville.  Billie worked at Peabody Mine #10 for 33 years and following his retirement as a coal miner, he owned and operated BLD Trucking for several years.  He was a member of the United Mine Workers of America and was a Teamster.  Billie loved his time spent camping and boating.  He was known as a calm and patient man.  

He is survived by his wife: Deborah G. Dickey of Taylorville; children: Christine Garrett of Mechanicsburg, Lester Dickey and Paula Dickey both of Taylorville; step children: Wendy Oller and Tom Oller both of Taylorville and Teresa Kunkes (Nick) of Bloomington; and several grand children and great grandchildren.  He was preceded in death by his parents, son: Cameron Dickey and aunt: Burdella Windell.

Mr. Dickey will be cremated, and his family will host a celebration of his life at a later date.  McClure Funeral Home and Cremation Services is assisting the family with arrangements. 

Memories of Billie, or condolences to his family, may be left online at www.mcclurefuneralhome.com.

Betty E. Sikes passed away at Memorial Hospital in Springfield, IL, on March 18, 2018, at the age of 82. Betty was born on August 31, 1935, in Bear Creek Township, Morrisonville, IL, to Burley and Laura (Mullins) Dowdy. She married Joseph E. Lucas who preceded her in death in 1962. In 1976 she married Norman (Gene) Sikes, and he preceded her in death in 2011. Betty graduated from Morrisonville High School and was a retiree of the IL State Board of Education where she worked as an inventory control coordinator. Earlier in her career, she also worked as a clerk for the Christian County Soil & Water Conservation District in Taylorville. Betty was the last survivor of her generation in the Burley and Laura Dowdy family. Her oldest brother, Shirley, was born in March of 1908. With Betty’s death in March of 2018, she and her siblings’ generation spanned a period of 110 years.

Betty is survived by her daughter, Keri Jean (Burr) Ginger. A son, Joseph E. Lucas, Jr., preceded her in death in 1994. Betty is survived by two grandchildren: Seth Ginger and Falon Brumfield.  She had two stepchildren: Theresa (Mark) Canada and Gregory Sikes; step-grandchildren: Jared and Caleb Canada, Casey and Ashley Sikes.
She is also survived by step-great grandchildren, nephews, nieces, cousins, and other relatives. Betty was preceded in death by her parents and brothers: Shirley, Sherman, Bill, Lee, Jay, and Ray “Button”, nephew Billy and sisters: Leona Huddleston, Georgia Yard, Stella Sparling, Susie Jacobs, and Pauline Huston.

The family will receive friends on Thursday, March 22, at Sutton Funeral Home in Taylorville from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. The funeral service will be held on Friday, March 23, at 10:30 a.m. at the funeral home with Pastor Chad Foster officiating. Burial will be at Anderson Cemetery, Palmer, IL, following the service.
Memorials may be made to the American Lung Association.

Sutton Memorial Home in Taylorville is assisting the family with arrangements. Please sign our online guestbook at suttonmemorialhome.com

Lucille Dickerson, 80, of Taylorville, formerly of Mt. Auburn, died at 8:22 p.m., Sunday, March 18, 2018, in her residence with her loving husband by her side. Born on August 1, 1937 in Mt. Auburn Township, Lucille was the daughter of Bud and Laura (Powers) Ealey. She married Roger Dickerson on September 20, 1957 in Kentucky, and she was happy to be a homemaker raising their two children. Lucille also worked as a bookkeeper for her husbands welding business. She was a loving wife and mother, and she will be dearly missed.

Along with her husband, Mrs. Dickerson is survived by her two children: Connie (Galen) Tippitt of Wataga, Illinois, and Kenny (Cindy) Dickerson of Mt. Auburn; grandchildren: Walter (Laura) Tippett, Robin (Matthew) Carlson, Jamie Dickerson; six great grandchildren; one sister: Maxine Bramel of Mt. Auburn; and many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents and eight siblings.

Mrs. Dickerson will be cremated, and her family will host a graveside service at a later date.

McClure Funeral Home and Cremation Services is assisting the family with arrangements. 

Memories of Lucille, or condolences to her family, may be left online at www.mcclurefuneralhome.com.

Gary Sams, 67 of Taylorville passed away on Friday, March 16, 2018 at 5:24 p.m. at his residence in Taylorville. He was born on May 14, 1950 in Taylorville, IL the son of Fred Harrison and Phyllis Diane (Garriott) Sams. He married Shirley Eson on June 25, 1977 in Taylorville IL. Gary worked as a Public Service Representative for the State of Illinois Department of Motor Vehicles and he was a member of Trinity Lutheran Church in Taylorville, IL.  

Surviving are his Wife: Shirley Sams of Taylorville, IL; Sons: Adam (Ashley) Sams of Peoria, IL; Scott Sams of Taylorville, IL; Daughter: Brenda (Thomas) Coble of Rockingham, NC; Grandchildren: Lacey Nicole Kathleen Patterson, Michael Grady (Ashley) Patterson, Anthony Bryant Waldo, Nevaeh Coble, Madison Sams, Joel Sams and Grayson Sams; Great-Grandchildren: Michael Carter Brantley, Paige Kathleen Anderson and Kinsley Nichole Smith; Brothers: Terry Sams of Pawnee, IL; Gregg (Anna) Sams of Taylorville, IL; Brad (Beth) Sams of Moweaqua, IL; Brother-in-Laws: David Eson, Paul (Mindy) Morgan; Sister-in-Laws: Kathy Galvin, Edna Eson, Julie Eson and Marilyn Eson; Uncles: Richard Garriott, Gerry (Gwen) Garriott; Aunt: Norma (Harold) Allison; Cousins: Carol (Charlie) Roberts, Tom Bilyeu, George Sams, Donnie (Patti) Sams, Mark (Cindy) Sams, Jenneth (Phil) Doyle, Wendy Martin, Lynn (Chuck) Newton, David Garriott, Diane Whitehouse; Several Nieces and Nephews. He was preceded in death by his Parents, Brother: Robert Sams, Grandson: Triston Waldo, Mother-in-Law: Carol June Eson, Brother-in-Law: Wayne Eson.

Visitation will be held on Tuesday, March 20, 2018 from 11:00-1:00 p.m. at Sutton Memorial Home in Taylorville, IL. The Funeral Service will follow the visitation starting at 1:00 p.m. at Sutton Memorial Home in Taylorville with Pastor Rodney Blomquist officiating. Inurnment will be in Oak Hill Cemetery in Taylorville.

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

Sutton Memorial Home in Taylorville is assisting the family with arrangements.
Please sign our on-line guest book at www.suttonmemorialhome.com.

Barbara Jean Pelati, 85 of Taylorville passed away at 6:45a.m. on Thursday, March 15, 2018 at St. John’s Hospital in Springfield.  She was born on January 18, 1933 in Taylorville, the daughter of Frank C. and Mary L. (Bailey) Noren.  She married Dante Pelati on August 13, 1959 at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Taylorville.  He preceded her in death on September 7, 1996.  Barb received her Bachelor’s degree from Illinois State University and a Master’s Degree from Millikin University.  She worked for many years as a teacher in Taylorville and surrounding communities.  Barb was very active in her community over the years.  Some of her involvement included: board member of the Christian County Senior Citizen’s Center, VFW Auxiliary, Taylorville Memorial Hospital Auxiliary and blood bank, Women’s golf league, founding member of the Boyd Dappert Youth Reservation, Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts, and St. Mary’s Catholic Church.  She loved to read, play bridge, golf, and spend time with her family.

Barb is survived by her children: Dr. Joseph Pelati (Dr. Leslie May) of Houston, Texas, Maria Crawford (Robert) of Bolingbrook, and Peggy Brandon (partner Rick Domeracki) of Wayne, Illinois; grandchildren: Colton Brandon of Rolling Meadows and Mina Brandon of Oxford, Mississippi; siblings: Marilyn (Ed) Voggetzer of Taylorville, Jim (Mary Ann) Noren of Taylorville, and Ron (Connie) Noren of Orange, California; sister-in-law: Louise Noren of Taylorville; brother-in-law: Jim Daugherty of Taylorville; and many beloved nieces, nephews, and cousins.  She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, and siblings: Ted Noren, William Noren, Charles “Lindy” Noren, and Johanna Daugherty.  

Barb will be cremated, and a funeral mass will be held at 10:30a.m. on Monday, March 19, 2018 at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Taylorville with Monsignor David Lantz officiating.  Inurnment will take place at Oak Hill Cemetery in Taylorville.  Visitation will be held from 3 until 5p.m. on Sunday at McClure Funeral Home.  The family will host a celebration of life and dinner from 5 until 7p.m. on Sunday at the VFW in Taylorville.  Memorials may be made to the Christian County Senior Citizens or the Christian County Relay for Life. 

McClure Funeral Home and Cremation Services in Taylorville is handling arrangements. 

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

Betty A. (Shanks) Jordan, 86, closed her eyes on the morning of March 14 and opened them in heaven.   Betty was born March 28, 1931 in Taylorville to Charles L. Shanks and Grace (Tyler) Shanks.  She was a graduate of Taylorville High School in 1949 and that same year met her future husband, Marvin G. Jordan, at a square dance.  They were married December 18, 1949 and continued to dance their way through life until Marvin died on March 11, 2013.   They’re dancing together again to the music of the angels.

Funeral services will be held at the Locust Grove Church in rural Assumption on Friday, March 23, at 10:30 am.  Visitation will be held on Thursday, March 22 from 6-8 pm at Seitz Funeral Home in Moweaqua.  Memorials can be made to Locust Grove Mission fund or St. Jude Children’s Hospital.  

Betty was a homemaker, and the best cook ever!  She loved her family, loved to read, knit and travel.  She enjoyed the many hours she spent researching her genealogy roots and loved listening to the good ole country tunes and gospel music.  She joined Locust Grove Church when she was 19 and taught Sunday School, Bible School, and held several other offices.  One of her most notable attributes was her kindness and generosity to others, many whom she had never met.  
 
Betty is survived by 4 daughters: Beverly (Charles) McQuiggan of Maryville, IL; Shelia (Randy) Meador of Moweaqua, Vera (Gary) Heiser of Decatur and Judy (Mike) Juenger of Cape Girardeau, Mo., 12 grandchildren and 19 great-grandchildren, sisters-in-law, Eleanor Jordan and Florence Wooters; brother-in-law Paul (Joyce) Jordan; and many other precious friends and relatives.  

She was preceded in death by her husband, parents, brothers, sisters, brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law:  Leslie (Emaline) Shanks, Joseph (Florence) Shanks, Eunice (Merle) Sims, Cecilia (Eldon) Eggerman, Beulah Shanks, Blanche (Robert) Kearney, Shirley (Lester) Blain, Marilyn Jordan, George Wooters and Norman Jordan.  

Seitz Funeral Home, Moweaqua has been entrusted with the care and service arrangements.  Condolences for the family may be left at www.seitzfh.com .

Mary L. Hafliger, 90 of Taylorville passed away on Tuesday, March 13, 2018 at 3:15 a.m. at her residence in Taylorville. She was born on July 10, 1927 in Taylorville, IL the daughter of John and Mary (Babich) Simaly. She married John Hafliger on February 23, 1952 in Taylorville and he preceded her in death on April 28, 1988. Mary retired as a secretary from Sangamon Card Company in Taylorville and she was a member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Taylorville and the Taylorville Chapter of the Catholic Daughters of America.

Surviving are her Niece: Donna (Jim) Hurtte of Evansville, IN and Several Great Nieces, Great Nephews and Cousins. She was preceded in death by her Parents, Husband, 3 Brothers and 3 Sisters.

Visitation will be held on Saturday, March 17, 2018 from 10:00-11:00 a.m. at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Taylorville, IL. Funeral Mass will follow the visitation starting at 11:00 a.m. at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Taylorville, IL with Msgr David S. Lantz officiating. Burial will be in Oak Hill Cemetery in Taylorville.

Memorials may be made to St. Mary’s Catholic Church for Masses 108 W. Adams St. Taylorville, IL 62568

Sutton Memorial Home in Taylorville is assisting the family with arrangements.
Please sign our on-line guest book at www.suttonmemorialhome.com.

Ida Dellnor Sloman, 86 of Springfield, IL passed away at 4:42 p.m. on Thursday, March 8, 2018 at Memorial Medical Center. She was born on May 26, 1931 in Shiloh Community, Northwest of Morrisonville, IL the daughter of Orris and Della Jane Waterman Garrett. She married Nelvin Sloman on June 24, 1950 at Fairview Methodist Church southeast of Morrisonville. She attended rural Christian County grade school and graduated from Morrisonville High School. She worked at Consolidated Telephone Company in Taylorville, IL as a telephone operator until her marriage when she became a farmwife. Ida was a member of Zenobia Baptist Church and a current attendee of Bethel Baptist Church in Sharpsburg, IL. She was a member and past Regent of Peter Meyer chapter NSDAR, member of Christian County HCEA, Christian County Historical Society and charter member of Christian County Genealogical Society. For many years she taught VBS, served as a Deaconess, a member of Women’s Mission Society and as leader of the BYF with her husband at Zenobia Baptist Church. Following their retirement, in 2012, Ida & Nelvin moved to Lewis Memorial Christian Village, Springfield, IL.

Ida is survived by Husband: Nelvin Sloman of Springfield, IL; Sons: Dennis (Nancy); Thomas (Patti); and David (Janet) Sloman. Grandchildren, Tyler (Samantha) Sloman,; Amanda (Chad) Patton; Chad (Elizabeth) Sloman; Amy (Jason) Stiff; Garrett (Danielle) Sloman; Matthew Sloman (Brenda Chavez). Fourteen great grandchildren, Alex, Madalyn & Ellie Sloman; Grant & Griffin Patton; Aidan, Elisa, Brenna & Carson Sloman; Christina & Lauren Jo Stiff; Schaeffer, Charlotte & Beckett Sloman. Sisters-in Law: Ruth Garrett and Leola Garrett. She was preceded in death by her parents granddaughter, Chrissy Lee Sloman, Brothers: Paul, Pier and Bernard Garrett and Sister Etta Mae Fowler.

Visitation will be 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday, March 13, 2018 at Sutton Memorial Home, in Taylorville, IL. Funeral Service will begin at 1:30 p.m. on Wednesday, March 14, 2018 at Sutton Memorial Home with Pastor Ted Marrinan and Pastor David Poeschel officiating. Burial will be held in Morrisonville Cemetery in Morrisonville, IL.

Memorial Contributions may be made to Bethel Baptist Church or Christian County Genealogical Society.

Sutton Memorial Home in Taylorville is assisting the family with arrangements.

Please sign our on-line guest book at www.suttonmemorialhome.com.

Patricia T. Craft, 90, of Assumption, passed away at 1:30 a.m. March 6, 2018, in St. John’s Hospital Springfield, IL.

Funeral services will be 12:00 p.m. Saturday, March 10, 2018, in Seitz Funeral Home, Assumption.  Visitation will be one hour prior to service time.  Burial will be in Pleasant View Cemetery, Assumption.  In lieu of flowers the family request memorials are made to Ronald McDonald House or the donor’s choice of charity.

Patricia was born September 13, 1927 in Decatur, IL, the daughter of Wilbur M. & Frances Geraldine (McGavic) Tankersley.

Patricia attended Assumption schools, graduating in 1945.  In the fall of 1945, Patricia entered cadet nurses training at the Macon County Hospital School of Nursing at Decatur Memorial Hospital, taking nurses training classes through the hospital and Millikin University.  She completed her training in 1948, graduating as a Registered Nurse.

Patricia married Robert F. Craft October 30, 1948 at the Good Will Methodist Church in Chicago, IL.  As newlyweds they moved to Indianapolis, IN, where both were employed.

During her nursing career, she was employed as a nurse at hospitals in Indianapolis, IN, Alton, IL, and Taylorville, IL.  In 1963 she left hospital nursing and was employed as a medical consultant for the Illinois Department of Public Aid, at the Christian County Office in Taylorville.  When she was offered the opportunity, she transferred from the county office to the department’s state office in Springfield where she was a section manager for medical claim review, finally retiring in 1990.

After retiring, she and Bob explored the US by RV before choosing Alamo, TX as an escape from the Midwest winters. Pat retired but her hands never did stop; she crocheted hundreds of afghans, most were donated to Ronald McDonald House and local women’s shelter.  Many a child snuggles in a blankie made by Pat.

Pat was completely devoted to her family, they were her focus in life.  She treasured her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. They brought great joy in her life.

Patricia is survived by two sons:  Robert Craft of Athens, AL and James Craft of Sherman, IL; three daughters: Mary Beth Pearson of Aiken, SC, Jeanne (Ross) Malme of Atlanta, GA and Cynthia Mueller of Naples, FL; four grandchildren: Amber and Joshua Pearson, Shannon (Jordan) McBride and Clinton Mueller; and four great-grandchildren.

Patricia is preceded in death by her parents; husband, Robert Craft; son, Gary Craft; sister, Juline Lambert; brother, James Tankersley and great-granddaughter, Mary Kaylynn Pearson.

Seitz Funeral Home, Assumption has been entrusted with the care and service arrangements.  Condolences for the family may be left at www.seitzfh.com .

Leo V. Curtin, passed away on Wednesday, February 28, 2018, two days before his 95th birthday. At the time of his passing he was a resident at Moravian Village, Bethlehem, PA.  He previously lived in Ocean City, NJ and Naples, FL.
 
Leo was born in Taylorville, IL on March 2, 1923, the son of Lawrence Frederick and Marie Ellen (Colbrook) Curtin.  He is survived by his wife, Nancy (Beitel) Curtin, whom he married January 3, 1981. He is also survived by his daughter Janet of Macungie, PA, his son Michael (wife, Anne) of Saratoga Springs, NY, and his grandchildren Matthew and Alison (husband, Chase).  In addition, he is survived by his brothers Larry of Taylorville, Paul (wife, Gail) of Lisle, IL, John (wife, Alice), of Taylorville, sister Dorothy of Mount Sterling, IL, many nieces and nephews, Nancy’s daughter Lisa Henrich (Dave), sons Rob Marcolina (Denise), Rick Marcolina (Lori), and their children.
 
He was predeceased by his first wife, Vlasta "Val" (Martinec) Curtin, whom he married on September 7, 1947, his parents, sister, Catherine Trueblood, brother William, grandson Peter Curtin, and Nancy’s sons, Paul and Jay.
 
Leo served in the U. S. Army during World War II reaching the rank of First Lieutenant.  He was stationed in Italy until 1946. Leo then attended     the University of Illinois at Urbana where he received his BA and Master in agriculture, and received his doctorate from Cornell in animal nutrition.  He worked in the animal nutrition industry for Proctor & Gamble, Central Soya, and finally as Senior Vice president of Research and Specialty Products for National Molasses Company.  In retirement he continued in the animal nutrition field as a sales consultant.  His work travels and his experiences in Italy during the war grew to include a lifetime of personal travel adventures throughout the world and the United States.
 
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at noon on Monday, March 5, at St. Anne’s Catholic Church in Bethlehem, PA with visitation at the church prior to the ceremony.  Leo will be buried in Oak Hill Cemetery in Taylorville, near the family that he loved and the farm he never forgot. Graveside committal service will be held at 10:00 a.m., Saturday, March 10, 2018, with Monsignor David Lantz officiating. McClure Funeral Home & Cremation Services is assisting the family with arrangements.  Memories of Leo or condolences to his family may be sent online at www.mcclurefuneralhome.com. 

Dorothy Elaine (Stroud) Graham, 93 of Stonington passed away on Wednesday, February 28, 2018 at 9:03 a.m. at Taylorville Memorial Hospital in Taylorville. She was born on March 13, 1924 in Taylorville, IL the daughter of Harry and Anna (Ogden) Stroud. She married Robert Leroy Graham on November 11, 1940 in Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Stonington, IL and he preceded her in death on November 17, 1997. Dorothy worked as a farmer and homemaker and she was a member of Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Stonington, IL.

Surviving are her Sons: Thomas (Pam) Graham of Stonington, IL; Charles (Cathy) Graham of Decatur, IL; John (Vicky) Graham of Taylorville, IL; Daughters: Agnes (Bill) Jones of Stonington, IL; Mary Ann (Ron) Basil of Decatur, IL; Grandchildren: Mark Jones, Eric Jones, Jeff Graham, Lisa Durbin, Dottie Landers, Michelle Wadkins, Karen Graham, Michael Graham, John Graham Jr., Jacque Graham, Barbara Hamm and Rhonda Warnsley; Several Great-Grandchildren and Great- Great Grandchildren, Nieces, Nephews and Cousins. She was preceded in death by her Parents, Husband, Son: James Graham, 2 Sisters and a Brother.

Visitation will be held on Monday, March 5, 2018 from 10:00-12:00 Noon at Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Stonington, IL. Funeral Mass will follow the visitation starting at 12:00 Noon at Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Stonington, IL with Msgr David S. Lantz officiating. Burial will be in Oak Hill Cemetery in Taylorville, IL.

Memorials may be made to the Stonington Fire Department and Rescue Squad 1 Fire House Rd, Stonington, IL 62567.

Sutton Memorial Home in Taylorville is assisting the family with arrangements.
Please sign our on-line guest book at www.suttonmemorialhome.com.

Judith A. White, 79 of Taylorville passed away on Wednesday, February 28, 2018 at 12:16 a.m. at Memorial Medical Center in Springfield, IL. She was born on February 17, 1939 in Taylorville, IL the daughter of Edward “Red” and Pauline (Stilts) Bland. She married William D. White on June 10, 1961 in Taylorville IL. Judy worked as a Medical Scanner at Springfield Clinic in Taylorville and she was a member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Taylorville. Her family was her hobby and her life.

Surviving are her Husband: William White of Taylorville, IL; Sons: Jeff White of Springfield, IL; Matthew Lutton of Springfield, IL; Several Nieces, Nephews and Cousins. She was preceded in death by her Parents, Son: James White, Brother: David Bland and Sister: Sally Sara Durbin.

Visitation will be held on Saturday, March 3, 2018 from 10:00-12:00 noon at Sutton Memorial Home in Taylorville, IL. Funeral Service will follow the visitation starting at 12:00 noon at Sutton Memorial Home in Taylorville, IL with Msgr David S. Lantz officiating. Inurnment will be held at a later date in Oak Hill Cemetery in Taylorville, IL.

Sutton Memorial Home in Taylorville is assisting the family with arrangements.

Please sign our on-line guest book at www.suttonmemorialhome.com.