Melvin M. Book, 89, of Tovey, IL, passed away at 7:10 a.m. on Monday, October 29, 2018 at St. John’s Hospital in Springfield, IL.

Mel was born October 18, 1929 in Stonington, IL, the son of Michael and Edna (Sims) Book. He later married his wife Jan, and she preceded him in death in 1994.

Following his schooling, Mel proudly served his country in the United States Army, and then reenlisted in the United States Air Force. He spent a great deal of time in Germany, and learned to speak, read, and write fluently in German. After his honorable discharge from the Air Force, Mel worked for the Ford Motor Company and Allis Chalmers as a tool and die maker for many years. He then retired from Meijer in Springfield after many years of service. Mel enjoyed his morning donut and coffee at the Kincaid Casey’s, and his afternoon visits at Bart’s Place in Tovey. He was a member of the V.F.W. Post 4495 in Taylorville, and a past member of the Taylorville Moose Lodge #1516.

He was also preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Vern, John, and Ed Book; and sister, Virginia Gordon.

Mel is survived by several nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Graveside Ceremony: 1:00 p.m., Thursday, November 1, 2018 at Camp Butler National Cemetery in Springfield, IL, with military honors being provided by the Department of Defense and Interveterans Burial Detail of Sangamon County.

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.

David William Kelmel, 64, of Morrisonville, IL, passed away at 10:48 p.m. on Sunday, October 28, 2018 at his residence. David was born June 13, 1954 in Taylorville, IL, the son of Harold W. “Shorty” and Frances (Oakley) Kelmel. He married Donna Durbin on August 26, 2006 at St. Maurice Catholic Church in Morrisonville, IL.

David graduated from Morrisonville High School in 1973, and attended Lincoln Land Community College to study automotive mechanics. He was an excellent mechanic, becoming ASE Certified. He has been employed by Landmark in Taylorville since 1983. Not only was Davids' family first, but he was also dedicated to his community. He has been a member and past president of the Morrisonville Community Club for 30 years, Village of Morrisonville Trustee for 16 years, volunteer firefighter for the Morrisonville Fire Department for 20 years, and a member of St. Maurice Catholic Church. He loved his old cars and working on cars. David enjoying helping his brother, Phil, farm and staying busy, as well as cheering on the St. Louis Cardinals and Fighting Illini Basketball team.

He was preceded in death by his father; brother, Lawrence Kelmel; sister, Brenda Kelmel; nephew, Philip Schwab; and step-father, Robert Frost.

David is survived by his wife, Donna Kelmel of Morrisonville, IL; sons, Chris (Tina) Kelmel of Arcola, and Derek Kelmel of Morrisonville, IL; step-children, Aaron Durbin and Kristin (Tim) Hunt both of Taylorville, IL; grandchildren, Hailey and Madison Hunt, Ryan (Kesia) Decker, and Laney, Brooklyn, Nolan, Spencer, and Phoenix Kelmel; mother, Frances Frost of Taylorville, IL; siblings, Philip (Susie) Kelmel of Morrisonville, IL, Ann (Bob) Nation of Stonington, IL, Susan (Kevin) Moomey of Morrisonville, IL, James (Sharon) Kelmel of Morrisonville, IL, and Bill (Dwanna) Kelmle of Taylorville, IL; aunt, Ruth (Jim) Hefley of Hillsboro, IL; and several nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Visitation: The family will receive guests from 4:00 – 7:00 p.m. on Thursday, November 1, 2018 at Perfetti-Assalley Funeral Home, 304 Carlin St., Morrisonville, IL 62546.

Funeral Ceremony: 11:00 a.m. on Friday, November 2, 2018 at Perfetti-Assalley Funeral Home in Morrisonville, with Deacon Patrick O’Toole officiating.

Interment will follow at St. Maurice Catholic Cemetery in Morrisonville, IL.  

Memorial Contributions may be made to: Morrisonville-Palmer Fire Protection District, 205 SE 6th St., Morrisonville, IL 62546, or the Morrisonville-Palmer Food Pantry, 307 SE 6th St., Morrisonville, IL 62546. Food donations may be made to the Knights of Columbus Hall #1151 in Morrisonville, IL, on Friday morning.

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

Charles Michael “Mike” Noel, 64, of Kincaid passed away at 11:43p.m. on Saturday, October 27, 2018 in his home. He was born on June 14, 1954 in Hannibal, Missouri, the son of Charles L. and Kathryn L. (Jacobs) Noel. Mike graduated from Hannibal High School in 1972. He worked at Gardner Denver in Quincy prior to moving to Illinois in the 80’s to help in the family business in Taylorville- Goodyear and C&K Tire. Mike then worked for Richardson Manufacturing in Springfield for many years, retiring as a CNC machinist. Mike married Jennifer Sharer in 2018 following a 16-year relationship with her. He was a NASCAR fan and a skilled pool player. Mike had a love for music, especially classic rock, and collected many albums. He was also a collector of Budweiser memorabilia.

Mike is survived by his wife: Jennifer Noel of Kincaid; children: Damon Noel (Kelly McGhee) of St. Louis, Lindy Noel of St. Louis, and Alana Hoover (Andy) of Columbia, Missouri; grandchildren: Jeshua, Jaden, Tony, Avrey, Corwin, and Jax, and great-granddaughter Allyson; father: Charlie Noel of Hannibal; siblings: Linda Jawort (Tex) of Billings, Montana, Charlotte Middleton (Gerald) of Jefferson City, Missouri, Kathy Bergeson (Jim) of New London, Missouri, and Jeff Noel (Christina) of Hannibal, Missouri; step son: Matthew Jones (Marcia) of Tower Hill; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins. He was preceded in death by his mother: Katie L. Noel.

A visitation will be held on Wednesday, October 31, 2018 from 5 until 7p.m. at McClure Funeral Home in Taylorville. An additional visitation will take place on Friday, November 2 from 5 until 7p.m. at the James O’Donnell Funeral Home in Hannibal, Missouri. The funeral service, officiated by Linda Jawort, will take place at 10a.m. on Saturday at the funeral home in Hannibal followed by burial at the Grand View Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Cancer Care Specialist Charitable Fund in Decatur, Illinois.

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

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

Daniel Lee Jaquette, 68, of Taylorville , IL, passed away on October 22, 2018, at his home.

Daniel was born in Indianapolis, IN, on January 30, 1950, to Claude Wilbur and Esther Maxine Jaquette.  "Dan" was raised in Lawrence, Indiana.  He was a natural athlete in his early years, pitching his way to several Little League championships.  Later in life, he excelled in bowling, maintaining a 166 average.

Dan joined the Army in 1970 and served until 1972, where he earned a Vietnam Service Medal and two bronze stars.  Memories from those days stayed with him and changed his life dramatically, suffering from PTSD until his dying day.

Dan relocated to southern California in 1972, and lived there until 2000, when he moved to Illinois to be close to family.  He enjoyed fishing, metal detecting, coin collecting, panning for gold, woodworking and gambling.

He is survived by sister Betty"Jeannie" (Robert) Smiley of Windermere, FL, sister-in-law Candy Jaquette of Shelbyville, IL, sister-in-law Connie Jaquette of Buena Park, CA; nieces Lacey Tull, Gwen Martin, Amy Jaquette, Lindzy Jaquette, Jessica Millican, Sayrah Jaquette, Renee Belenti and nephews Jacob Jaquette and Michael Jaquette.

He was preceded in death by his parents and brothers Timothy Jaquette and Kenneth Jaquette.

A private graveside service will be held at the Danville National Cemetery in Danville, Illinois.

The family has entrusted the Blurton Funeral Home, 400 N. Vermilion St., Potomac, Illinois to assist them in honoring Mr. Jaquette’s life.

Memories or photos may be shared with the family on his everlasting memorial page at: www.BlurtonFuneralHomes.com.

Kenneth W. Smith, 92 of Mattoon, IL formerly of Taylorville passed away at 9:20 a.m. Sunday, October 21, 2018 at Sarah Bush Lincoln Health Center in Mattoon. He was born on August 12, 1926 in Mt. Zion the son of William and Sarah (Reed) Smith. He worked as a farmer and was employed by the Peabody Co. Kenneth was a member of Bromwell Masonic Lodge #451 A.F. & A.M. in Morrisonville, IL.

He is survived by his sons: Larry Smith, Richard Smith, Kevin (Jenny) Smith, and Randy Smith; daughters: Karen Thompson, Donna Eson, Marsha (Sam) Ellinger, and Michele (Jerry) Luttrell; several grandchildren and great-grandchildren; sister, Helen Morgan, and several nieces, nephews, and cousins. He was preceded in death by his parents, son, Gary Smith, Sisters: Virginia Skinner and Louis Ogelsby

Per Kenneth’s wishes he will be cremated and no services will be accorded.

Memorials may be made to Palm Terrace of Mattoon Alzheimers Ward 1000 Palm Avenue Mattoon, Illinois 61938

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

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

Beverly Lynn Ray, 68, of Palmer passed away peacefully, surrounded by her family, at 3:25a.m. on Saturday, October 20, 2018 in her daughter’s home in Tovey. She was born on October 4, 1950 in Herrin, the daughter of Morris and Myrtle “Sis” (Wise) Upton.

She is survived by her children: Rebecca Cleeton (Ed), Billy Mink (Lisa Bland), and John Mink all of Tovey; grandchildren: Jessica Skinner, Tabitha Kelley, Brooke Burney, Harlie Rice, D.J. Rice, Billy Mink Jr., Autumn Mink, Kyler Mink, Millenia Mink, Keeley Mink, J.J. Mink, Ivy Mink, and Mackenzie Cleeton; 10 great grandchildren with 2 more expected soon; a brother and a sister. She was preceded in death by her parents and a brother.

Mrs. Ray will be cremated, and no services are planned at this time. McClure Funeral Home and Cremation Services is assisting the family with arrangements.

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

Marcella Marie Large, 92, of Owaneco, Illinois passed away on Saturday, October 20, 2018 at Taylorville Memorial Hospital. She was born on May 27, 1926, near Stonington, the daughter of Ira and Ethel (Sloan) High. She married Donald Large on August 17, 1947 at Old Stonington Baptist Church. Donald preceded her in death in June 2016.

Marcella graduated from Stonington High School in 1944. Through the years Marcella had an active life. She worked at the War Plant in Illiopolis, Joe Ward Contractor, and Gene Kennedy Supply Company. She was a member of the Buckeye Methodist Church where she served as a Sunday School teacher and as treasurer for the church. Marcella was actively involved in Christian County Home Extension. She served as President of Christian County Rural Youth and was elected to the State Rural Youth Committee, President of Rosamond Women’s Club, Owaneco PTA, Taylorville High School PTA, Taylorville School District PTA, and Buckeye HCEA. She served as Worthy Matron of Rosalind Chapter of Order of Eastern Star, as well as secretary, treasurer, and other offices. In 1991, she was selected as Grand Sentinel of the Order of Eastern Star Grand Chapter of Illinois. Marcella enjoyed traveling with her husband with the Ansar Three Wheelers, as well as assisting him in the years when he was a leader of the Buckeye 3Bs 4H Club.

Marcella is survived by three children: Donna (Richard) Douglas of Kankakee, David (Barbara) Large of Owaneco, and Janet (Ronald) Roglis of Glenarm; six grandchildren: Erin Douglas, Matt Douglas, Jeffery (Kate) Large, Jennifer (Brad) Nobbe, Brian (Kristin) Roglis, and Abbey (Michael) Dirksen; nine great-grandchildren: David, Alice, Rosemary, Clare, Charlie, Gianna, Sam, Dakota, and Clint. Marcella was preceded in death by her parents, husband Donald, brother Ray High, and sister Fae Hodges.

The funeral service for Marcella will be held at 10 a.m. on Thursday, October 25, 2018 at McClure Funeral Home in Taylorville with Rev. Tami Werschey-Kessinger officiating. Visitation will be held from 5 until 7p.m. Wednesday in the funeral home. Inurnment will be held at a later date.

Memorials may be made to the Shriner’s Children’s Hospital or Buckeye United Methodist Church.

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

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

Gay D. (Hendricks) Snow 86, of Taylorville, Illinois passed away on Tuesday October 16, 2018 at 9:25 p.m. at St. John’s Hospital in Springfield, Illinois. She was born on May 17, 1932 in Findlay, Illinois the daughter of William Ed and Guyneth (Tinnea) Hendricks. She married F. Lane Snow Jr. on November 24, 1951 in Cedar Rapids, Iowa and later preceded her in death on December 20, 1967. They farmed in Christian and Shelby counties and were the parents of two children: Andrea and Michael Snow. She was a member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church of Assumption, IL, and later of St. Mary’s Catholic Church of Taylorville. Also a former member of Lioness Club of Taylorville, the Christian County Historical Society, and Catholic Daughters of America. Gay was a resident of Taylorville from 1968 to the time of her death. She was employed in Taylorville in farm related businesses; was a licensed realtor from 1974 to 1999; she was also owner operator of an antique store on north Washington street in Taylorville. She was preceded in death by her husband, parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles, brother: Norris G. Hendricks and nephew: Jason Hendricks

She is survived by her son: Michael Snow (Wife April Sievert) of Bloomington, IN; daughter: Andrea (David) Livingston of Clinton, IL; granddaughters: Megan Livingston of Madison, WI, Lisa (Chad) Olson of Bloomington, IL; one niece and one nephew, and multiple great nieces and nephews of Indiana.

Visitation will be held on Saturday, October 20, 2018 from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. at Sutton Memorial Home in Taylorville. Funeral service will follow the visitation starting at 11:30 a.m. at Sutton Memorial Home in Taylorville with Deacon Jim Baxter officiating. Interment will follow in St. Mary’s Catholic Cemetery in Assumption, IL.

Memorials may be made to St. Mary’s Catholic Church 108 W. Adams St. Taylorville, IL 62568 or St. Mary’s Catholic School 422 S. Washington 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.

Alfred W. Mundhenke, 90 of Taylorville passed away on Tuesday, October 16, 2018 at 3:57 p.m. at his home in Taylorville surrounded by loved ones. He was born on October 28, 1927 in Morrisonville, IL the son of Alfred D. and Ada (Waddle) Mundhenke. He married Betty D. Taylor on February 5, 1951 and she preceded him in death on February 9, 1990, he then married Alta Bates on February 26, 1994 and she survives. Alfred proudly served two tours in the U.S Navy and worked as a coal miner at Peabody Mine #10 and retired in January 1990.

He is survived by his Wife: Alta Mundhenke of Taylorville, IL; Sons: Bruce (Mary) Mundhenke, Randy (Shari) Mundhenke, Brian J. Mundhenke all of Taylorville, Ray Mundhenke, and Rodney Mundhenke both of Springfield, IL; Daughters: Joy (Steve) Reller, Gina (Jimmie) Rogers both of Taylorville; Step Children: Deborah (Denny) Held of Raymond, IL, Pam Bates, Deb Kinsey, and David (Ronda) Bates all of Springfield, IL; Grandchildren: Todd, Lela, Jacob, and Joshua Mundhenke, Craig and Christie Reller, Heather and Trevor Smith, Taylor Sparling, Cody and Kristen Harrison; Step-granddaughter: Alexa Bates of Springfield, IL; Cousin: Duane “Biggins” Steele of Palmer, IL; and several nieces, nephews, and cousins. He was preceded in death by his Parents, Wife, Daughter: Patty Smith; Brothers: James Mundhenke and John Mundhenke; Sisters: Phyllis Davis, Ione Prose, and Frances Hill; Grandsons: Ronnie J. Mundhenke, and Chad Matthew Cunningham.

Alfred’s wishes were to be cremated and there will be a celebration of his life 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.

Bill Eugene Izatt, Jr., 65 of Taylorville, died at 3:23 p.m. Thursday, October 11, 2018 at Champaign-Urbana Rehab & Nursing in Savoy, with all four of his children by his side. Bill was born on September 7, 1953 in Taylorville, the son of Bill Eugene and Katherine Earline (Jeffers) Izatt. He earned his bachelor’s degree, nearly completing his masters, and worked in Hospital Administration. He enjoyed education and learning, was a devoted reader, and an avid St. Louis Cardinals fan.

He is survived by his children: Chris (Rachel) Izatt of Divernon; Marissa (Chris) Lewis of Homer; Kelly Withers of Paxton; Brad Izatt of Bloomington; 5 grandchildren: Anderson, Henry, Levi, Cole, and Timber; his mother: Katherine Earline Drew. He was preceded in death by his father, Bill Sr., and one brother: Mark Izatt.

A graveside memorial service will be held at 10:00 a.m., Thursday, October 18, 2018 at Oak Hill Cemetery.

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

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

Patricia J. Stone, 63 of Taylorville passed away at 7:03a.m. on Tuesday, October 9, 2018 in her residence. She was born on August 26, 1955 in Decatur, the daughter of Ralph Horn and Dorothy (Roll) Gordon. Patricia loved spending time with her family, especially her grandchildren. She also enjoyed her faithful companion, Ziva.

She is survived by her children: James Stone and Erin Emmett, both of Taylorville; grandchildren: Madison Wiseman (companion, Blake Carmean) of Taylorville and Dylan Stone (Jordan) of Taylorville; brother: Michael Horn of Decatur; and sister: Doris Moomey of Taylorville. She was preceded in death by her parents and daughter: Leslie Ann Stone.

A private family graveside memorial service will be held at 10am on Friday, October 12, 2018 at Oak Hill Cemetery in Taylorville with Monsignor David Lantz officiating.

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

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

Jerry Bert West, 54 of Nokomis passed away on Sunday, October 7, 2018 at 6:38 a.m. at his residence in Nokomis. He was born on January 7, 1964 in Hillsboro, IL the son of Ray Eugene and Betty Ruth (Nicholes) West. He married Rita Cushing on February 10, 1990 in Assumption, IL. Jerry worked as the superintendent of the Nokomis quarry. He was a scout master for ten years for cub scouts and boy scout troop 99 of Nokomis. He also loved the outdoors, fishing, hunting, and his purple martins. He was a member of Shiloh Baptist Church.

Surviving are his Wife: Rita West of Nokomis, IL; Son: Cody (Shawnee) West of Fillmore, IL; Mother: Betty West of Pana IL; Brothers: John (Cheryl) West of Morrisonville, IL, Richard (Debbie) West of Irving, IL, Steve (Gail) West of Coalton, IL, Randy West of Nokomis, IL; Mother and Father in law: Clarence Jr. Cushing and Brenda Litz Cushing of Assumption, IL; Sister-in-Law: Virginia (Todd) Cushing-Hegardt of Pana, IL; Brother-in-Law: Clarence Edward (Chris) Cushing of Witt, IL and several nieces, nephews, and cousins. He was preceded in death by his father, sister Sheila West in infancy, and niece Heather West

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, October 10, 2018 from 4:00-7:00 p.m. at Sutton Funeral Home in Nokomis, IL. Funeral Service will be held on Thursday, October 11, 2018 at 10:00 a.m. at Sutton Funeral Home in Nokomis, IL with Rev. Randy West officiating. Burial will be in Nokomis Cemetery in Nokomis, IL.

Memorials may be made to Montgomery County Cancer Association 19 Circle Dr. Litchfield, IL 62056.

Sutton Funeral Home in Nokomis is assisting the family with arrangements.

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

Lolita McConnell, 64 of Taylorville passed away on Saturday, October 6, 2018 at 1:10 a.m. at her residence in Taylorville, IL. She was born on November 17, 1953 in Pana, IL the daughter of Don and Shirley (Pastor) Griffiths. She married Dennis McConnell on August 1, 1969 in Union City, TN and they later divorced. Lolita worked at Bob Ridings in Taylorville doing licensing and title work.

She is survived by her Daughters: Denean (Companion Chris Orange) Etchison of Pana, IL; Amanda (Shawn) Keathley of Taylorville, IL; Grandchildren: Kaitlyn Cook, Kelsey and Brett Etchison, Derek and Logan McConnell, Emma and Gwyn Keathley, Jason Cook; Great-Granddaughter: Ellie Cook; Sisters: Harriet (Larry) Morrissey of Taylorville, IL; Beth Griffiths of Taylorville, IL; Several Nieces, Nephews and Cousins. She was preceded in death by her Parents, Brother: Donnie Griffiths, Nephews: Joseph Peden and Gary Morrissey.

Visitation will be held on Tuesday, October 9, 2018 from 5:00-8:00 p.m. at Sutton Memorial Home in Taylorville. Memorial service will follow the visitation starting at 8:00 p.m. at Sutton Memorial Home in Taylorville with Msgr. David Lantz officiating. Inurnment will be held 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.

John Robert “Bob” Danko, 75, died on Tuesday, October 2, 2018 at St. Vincent Memorial Hospital, Evansville, Indiana. Born on August 20, 1943 in Taylorville, Bob was the son of John and Wanda (Allison) Danko. He graduated from Taylorville High School and married his sweetheart, Helen Corene Smith, on November 29, 1963 at the First United Methodist church in Taylorville, and she preceded him in death on August 9, 2013. After their marriage, Bob attended SIU and received his bachelor’s degree. He enjoyed a lifelong career of over 30 years with Peabody Coal Company. He began at age 18 at Mine #10, working as a 3rd shift maintenance repairman and eventually advanced his career to the level of General Superintendent. After retiring from Peabody Coal, he began a career with HR Solutions in Evansville, IN as a VP of Executive Recruiting. Bob was a life member of the NRA, a member of the Taylorville Underwater Search & Rescue, President and acting board member of the National Mine Rescue Association, and he was a founding board member for the Taylorville YMCA. Bob was also a member of the United Methodist Church in Newburgh, Indiana.

Bob is survived by his two sons: Kirk (wife, Beth) Danko of Maryville, MO, Troy (wife, Julie) Danko of Parker, TX; four grandchildren: Logan Danko of Johnstown, PA, Morgan (husband, Jason) Crall of Albia, Iowa, Justin (fiancée, Kourtney Krumm) Danko of Oshkosh, WI; Megan Danko of Parker, TX; one great grandson: Jack Michael Crall; sister: Linda (Rev. Tom) Bellegante of Taylorville; sister-in-law: Joanne (husband, Chuck) Garner of Taylorville; sister-in-law: Betty (husband,Dave) Smith of Huntsville,AL; and dear friend Sandy Kramer of Newburgh, IN.

Along with his loving wife, Bob was preceded in death by his parents and his brother-in-law: David Smith of Hutsville, AL.

Funeral service will be held at 10:00 a.m., Monday, October 8, 2018 at the First United Methodist Church, Taylorville, with Reverend Bob Cook & Reverend Tom Bellegante officiating. Interment will take place at Oak Hill Cemetery. Visitation will be held from 2 – 4 p.m. on Sunday, at McClure Funeral Home.

Memorials may be made in his honor to the Taylorville YMCA or the First United Methodist Church. McClure Funeral Home and Cremation Services is assisting the family with arrangements.

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

Natalie H. Upchurch, 87 of Taylorville passed away on Tuesday, October 2, 2018 at 11:12 a.m. at Taylorville Memorial Hospital in Taylorville, IL. She was born on February 25, 1931 in Taylorville, IL the Daughter of Homer and Helen (Hunter) Martin. She married George Upchurch on July 3, 1952 in Taylorville, IL and he preceded her in death on April 20, 2014. Natalie worked as a Catalog manager at JC Penny’s. She was a member of the First United Methodist Church in Taylorville, IL, United Methodist Women and Order of the Eastern Star. She was the past president of the VFW Post #4495 Ladies Auxiliary, and one of the first South School PTA Co-Presidents. Natalie also loved going to lunch and playing cards with her friends. Natalie’s wishes were for everyone to take a friend to lunch in her honor instead of sending her flowers.

She is survived by her Daughter: Jane Hunsche of Taylorville, IL; Sons: Michael Upchurch of Taylorville, IL and Jim (Bonnie) Upchurch of New Iberia, LA; Eleven Grandchildren; Thirteen Great-Grandchildren; One Great-Great Granddaughter; Son-in-Law: Nelson Gulso of Kincaid, IL; Brother-in-Law: Charles Drake of Naples, FL; Several Nieces, Nephews and Cousins. She was preceded in death by her Parents, Husband, Daughter: Julie Gulso, Mother and Father-in-Law: Paul and Edna Upchurch, Sisters: Marcia Wham, Patricia Hart and LouCinda Drake.

Visitation will be held on Friday, October 5, 2018 from 10:00-11:30 a.m. at the First United Methodist Church in Taylorville. Memorial service will follow the visitation starting at 11:30 a.m. at the First United Methodist Church in Taylorville. Inurnment will be held in Oak Hill Cemetery in Taylorville, IL.

Memorials may be made to The First United Methodist Church 200 S. 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.

Eulalia Imogene (Jean) Ohl, 89, of Assumption, died October 1, 2018 at 2:16 p.m. in Decatur Memorial Hospital.

Funeral Mass will be 11:00 a.m. Friday, October 5, 2018 in St. Mary’s Catholic Church, Assumption, IL, with Father Marianna Sathuluri and Father Angel Sierra officiating. Visitation will be from 5- 8 p.m., with an 8p.m. Rosary Service, Thursday, October 4, 2018, in Seitz Funeral Home, Assumption. Memorials may be made to Decatur Memorial Hospital Heart & Lung Institute, St. Mary’s Catholic Church, or to the family. Burial will be in St. Mary’s Cemetery, Assumption.

Eulalia was born in her home on December 25, 1928 in Assumption, IL, the daughter of Charles and Myrtle (Holman) DuBeck. She married Raymond Edward Ohl on October 14, 1950 in Assumption, IL. He preceded her in death January 2, 2010.

Eulalia cherished deeply her life as a wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother and friend. She was a lifetime member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church of Assumption. Eulalia was a beautiful historian, original member of the Assumption Historical Society and member of St. Mary’s Altar Society. She loved writing stories, published a family cookbook, loved to read, shared her love of reading by taking many to the library, loved the holidays and writing cards.

Eulalia attended Browns Business College for two years after graduating from the Assumption High School class of 1946. She organized her 1946 class reunions until 2015. Eulalia worked at Swain and Meyers, Decatur, IL for 4 ½ years after graduating from Browns Business College, and volunteered for 10 years as a library aide at St. Mary’s Catholic School.

Eulalila was an avid St. Louis Cardinals fan, even traveling to Florida with her sister to spring training! She had a green thumb and enjoyed gardening, working beside her best friend, Ray in the rose garden, canning, freezing, making pickles and baking cobblers, pies, her all time favorite Pumpkin Pie and award winning German Chocolate Cake and Angel Food Cake with mile high icing…winning many Best of Show ribbons at the Christian County and Pana Tri County fairs. She loved the State Fair and attended annually! She enjoyed picking strawberries and making jelly & jam. Nearest to her heart was family gatherings and taking family to activities such as swimming and dance. Eulalia helped for years with the Assumption Fest pageants and the Christian County Fair queen Pageants. She enjoyed listening to Merle Haggard and loved Starbucks Coffee and Columbian Coffee; it was always near her side!

Jean was the true essence of life and her motto was to live each moment to the fullest with family & friends and participate in all you can, to the best of your ability. Eulalias’ beautiful spirit and zest for life was dynamic.

Surviving are her son, Kenny (Karen) Ohl of Assumption; daughters: Nancy (Gary) Nave, Mary Hebert, Becky Fringer, Lisa (Billy) Blades, Angela Ohl-Marsters (John Brackett), all of Assumption, Teresa (Edward) Nelson of Taylorville, IL; fourteen grandchildren; seventeen great-grandchildren; seven great great-grandchildren, sister, Jacqueline Hughes of Rochester, IL, two nieces and one nephew.

Eulalia fondly also leaves behind her beloved dog, Juliette and her cats, Mia and Raymond.

Preceding her in death are her husband, Raymond E. Ohl; parents, Charles and Myrtle DuBeck; brothers: Elmer, Eddie and Vincent DuBeck and sister, Helen Fishel.

Seitz Funeral Home, Assumption has been entrusted with the care and service arrangements.

Condolences for the family may be left at www.seitzfh.com

Elsie Brookens McKittrick, 97, passed away at Heritage Health in Normal, IL on September 16.
She was born at home near Owaneco, IL on April 19, 1921, the daughter of John A. Brookens and Beulah (Masters) Brookens.  A graduate of Taylorville High School, Elsie attended Eastern Illinois University and Brown's Business College. She worked at a dress shop in Decatur until she married Robert McKittrick on December 11, 1941. Elsie was a homemaker who raised five children until the youngest was in high school when she began working as a teller at the First National Bank in Taylorville. She was a devoted member of (Buckeye United Methodist Church and participated in Christian County Home Extension. She enjoyed playing piano, the outdoors and taking walks on the family farm. After retirement, she enjoyed trips with Bob to visit relatives and to the Grand Canyon and Alaska.

She is survived by her children: Linda McElroy, Columbia, MO; Donna (Jerome) Pleshe, Kincaid, IL; John (Sally) McKittrick, Orlando, FL; Dale (Gloria) McKittrick, Baltimore, MD; Karen (Larry)Spiegler, Ravenna, OH; 10 grandchildren; 14 great grandchildren; and 19 nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her husband Bob and her brother Harold Brookens.

A memorial service will be held on October 6, 2018 at 1:00 pm. at Sutton Memorial Home in Taylorville with Pastor Tami Werschy-Kessinger officiating.

Memorials may be made to Buckeye United Methodist Church 101 South Church Street Owaneco, Illinois 62555.

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

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

Billie Earlene Beard-Johnson (affectionately known as "Auntie Beans"), 71, of Sherman, Illinois formerly of Corcoran, California, passed away on September 28, 2018 at 5:42 p.m. at The Villas Senior Care Center surrounded by family. Billie was born on July 28, 1947 in Chicago to Bill and Marcella Beard. She received a Bachelor's Degree in Business from Cardinal Stritch University in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Billie was the owner and operator of Oak Tree Press Publishing Company based in Corcoran, California. While Billie was born in Illinois, she was a California girl at heart and loved the west coast. Her love of reading fueled her desire to travel.  A huge fan of Jeopardy aided Billie as she enthusiastically challenged every member in her family to Trivial Pursuit and remained undefeated. Billie loved watching CNN and MSNBC.  It was on her television day and night. Mystery novels were her favorite and she was known to read the same book over and over.  You would also have a hard time finding her without a pack of Extra Spearment gum on or near her.

Billie is survived by her daughter, Kirsten Legere of Portland, Oregon; sisters Bev (Ted) Durham, Trisha (Doug) Hancock, and Tarra (Kevin) Norris, all of Taylorville; and brothers Ty (Pam) Beard of Utopia, Texas, Michael (Gena) Beard of Springfield, Missouri, and David (Gail) Beard of Memphis, Tennessee. "Auntie Beans" also leaves behind several nieces, nephews and cousins.

A private celebration of life is planned.

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

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

Anna Marie McVey, 91 of Taylorville passed away on Saturday, September 29, 2018 at 10:50 p.m. at Meadow Manor Skilled Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in Taylorville, IL. She was born on September 13, 1927 in Blue Mound, IL the Daughter of Joseph and Jane (Rigsby) Nolen. She married Joseph McVey on March 7, 1944 and he preceded her in death on February 13, 1991. Anna worked as a waitress in her younger days and later she helped her husband on the farm.

She is survived by her Daughters: Charlotte (Denny) Schum of Decatur, IL; Mary Jane McVey of Taylorville, IL; Grandchildren: Brad (Sherry) McVey of Bridgeport, IL; John Foor Jr. of Dallas, TX; Six Great-Grandchildren; Several Nieces, Nephews and Cousins. She was preceded in death by her Parents, Husband, Son: Donald McVey, Brothers and Sisters.

Visitation will be held on Tuesday, October 2, 2018 from 9:00-10:00 a.m. at Sutton Memorial Home in Taylorville. Funeral service will follow the visitation starting at 10:00 a.m. at Sutton Memorial Home in Taylorville. Burial will be held in Berea Cemetery in rural Niantic, IL.

Memorials may be made to Taylorville Christian Church 1124 N. Webster St. Taylorville, IL or the American Cancer Society P.O. Box 22718 Oklahoma City, OK 73123 or to the Donors Choice.

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

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

Myrtle Marie McCaslin, 105 of Nokomis passed away on Saturday, September 29, 2018 at 2:10 p.m. at Nokomis Rehabilitation and Health Care Center in Nokomis. She was born on July 8, 1913 in Montgomery County, IL the daughter of Sherman Henry and Ida Bell (Revis) Sanders. She married Earnie McCaslin on October 12, 1930 and he preceded her in death on August 17, 1972.

Surviving are her Son: Randy McCaslin of Nokomis, IL; Daughters: Connie (Ronald) Hughes of Sheridan, IL; Vivian Eileen Hill of Nokomis, IL; 15 Grandchildren; 47 Great-Grandchildren; 31 Great-Great-Grandchildren; Nieces: Marcia Alexander, Lois McCaslin and several other nieces, Nephews and Cousins. She was preceded in death by her Parents, Husband, Son: Leroy McCaslin, Daughter Shirley Hartman, Grandson: Michael Dale Hill, Brothers: Luther Sanders, Harold Sanders, Carl, Vester and Gene Sanders, Sisters: Pearl, Genevieve and Margaret, Daughter-in-Law: Josephine McCaslin Son-in-Laws: Dale Hill, Larry Hartman, Prosper Guyot.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, October 3, 2018 from 9:00-11:00 a.m. at Sutton Funeral Home in Nokomis, IL. Funeral Service will follow the visitation starting at 11:00 a.m. at Sutton Funeral Home in Nokomis, IL with Pastor Ryan Follis officiating. Burial will be in Nokomis Cemetery in Nokomis.

Memorials may be made to the First Baptist Church 211 E. South St. Nokomis, IL 62075.

Sutton Funeral Home in Nokomis is assisting the family with arrangements.

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