David Lee Smith, Sr., 63 of Tilden, died at 1:00 a.m. Wednesday, May 26, 2021, in his home. He was born on November 20, 1957, in Taylorville to Victor & Marilyn (Emerson) Smith. He served his country proudly in the US Army during the Vietnam era from 1974 until 1977, joining on his 17th birthday. During his time in the Army, he became a crew chief and was an accomplished helicopter mechanic. He married Frances Schaefer on December 24, 1980, at the courthouse in Randolph County, Illinois, and she survives. Mr. Smith worked as a miner for Peabody Coal Company.

In his younger years, he enjoyed fishing, camping with his family, water skiing, and duck hunting. More recently, he and his wife enjoyed target shooting.  He visited Calvary Church in Sparta and watched their services online. Most of all, he loved his wife, his home, and his family. He will truly be missed. 

In addition to his loving wife of over 40 years, he leaves behind his sons: Christopher J. Smith (wife, Pamela) of Coulterville, David L. Smith, Jr., (wife, Hannah) of Coulterville, Joseph P. Smith of Red Bud; 9 grandchildren: Faith, Emma, Layla, Jake, Raiden, Harlow, Birdie, Scotlyn, and Eleanor; his sister: Michelle Schmidt of Peoria; and several cousins, nieces, nephews, aunts, and uncles. He was preceded in death by his parents, and siblings: James V. Smith, Mary M. Mize, and Gail Thome. 

A graveside memorial service with Military Honors will be held at a later date at Glenhaven Memorial Gardens in Taylorville.

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

Jerome E. Durbin, 67 of Taylorville passed away on Thursday, May 27, 2021 at 2:01 p.m. at his home in Taylorville, IL. He was born on October 30, 1953 in Taylorville, IL the son of Everett Jerome Nancy Alice (Childers) Durbin. He worked as a sanitation Engineer and was a past member of the Eagles in Taylorville for over 10 years.

He is survived by his Sister: Betty Ann of Decatur, IL; Brothers: Larry Durbin of Bloomington, IL; Robert Durbin of Taylorville, IL; David R. Durbin of Taylorville, IL; several nieces, nephews and cousins. He was preceded in death by his parents and his Sister: Rita Kay Durbin. 

Jerome will be cremated and there will be no services. 

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

Please sign our online guest book at suttonmemorialhome.com

William R. “Bill” Marshall, 80, of Taylorville, passed away on Tuesday, May 25, 2021 at his residence.

Bill was born October 11, 1940 in Taylorville, the son of Byron and Irene (Williams) Marshall. He married Sharon L. VanHooser on July 13, 1963 at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Taylorville. She preceded him in death on April 23, 2008.

Bill graduated from Taylorville High School in 1958, and went on to proudly serve our country in the United States Air Force. After his honorable discharge, he worked for the State of Illinois and Prudential for a short time. Bill then owned and operated Bill’s Pub for many years, and worked for the Christian County Medical Clinic. He eventually transferred to Memorial Medical Center where he retired from the billing department.

Bill was a lifelong member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church, member of the V.F.W. Post #4495, member of the American Legion Post #73, and the Knights of Columbus #2120, all in Taylorville. He loved being outdoors, especially deer hunting and fishing. Bill loved a good campfire, and a cold beer, and he was an avid Pittsburgh Steelers fan.

He was also preceded in death by his parents; and sister, Carol Vance.

Bill is survived by his companion, Elaine Wilkinson of Taylorville; children, Lenora (companion, Chris Johnston) Siegrist of Ozark, MO, Ronald (wife, Tracy) Marshall of Taylorville, and Phillip Marshall of Chesapeake, VA; grandchildren, Steffany (husband, Gale) Mulvaney of Harvel, Shannon (husband, Joe) Hein of Aurora, IL, Connie (husband, Matt) Fisher of Naperville, Tom Siegrist of Aurora, CO, Danielle Weinert of Garner, IA, and Kaitlyn (husband, Chris) Reincke of Morrisonville; great grandchildren, Johnathan Freeman, Gabrielle Weinert, Sage Mulvaney, Lilly Reincke, Adelynn Reincke, and due in September, Eliza Reincke; sister, Beverly (husband, Cecil) Chesser of Taylorville; and several nieces and nephews

Visitation: The family will receive guests from 4:00-7:00 p.m. on Monday, May 31, 2021 at Shafer-Perfetti & Assalley Funeral Home, 202 W. Franklin Street, Taylorville, IL 62568. 

Funeral Ceremony: 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, June 1, 2021 at the funeral home, with Rev. Msgr. David S. Lantz officiating. The family encourages casual dress for ceremonies.

Interment with military honors will follow the ceremony at Oak Hill Cemetery in Taylorville.

Memorial contributions may be made to: V.F.W. Post #4495, 515 N. West Ave, Taylorville, IL 62568, or the Kirstie Ennis Foundation, PO Box 2182, Glenwood Springs, CO 81602.

Please visit www.assalleyfuneralhomes.com to share memories of Bill, or offer condolences to his family.

Connie B. Dickey, 83 of Taylorville passed away on Friday, May 21, 2021 at 5:02 a.m. at Carle Foundation Hospital in Urbana, IL. She was born on December 30, 1937 in Taylorville, IL the daughter of Howard Burnell and Christina Gladfelter. She married Bill Dickey in April of 1956 and they later divorced. She worked as a self-employed beautician and she owned Connie’s Corner in Bullpitt for 20 years. She was also an accountant, owned the Sugar Shack Doughnut Shop and she did catering events. Connie was a member of the First Baptist Church in Taylorville. She was an avid lake lover, she loved camping, boating, cooking and shopping.

She is survived by her daughters: Christina Garrett of Mechanicsburg, IL; Paula Ellermeyer of Taylorville, IL; son: Lester Dickey and Fiancé Marcy Montgomery of Taylorville, IL; grandchildren: Cameron G. Dickey(companion Ricci Painter), Chase Dickey (companion Erica Timmons), Kurklan Dickey (companion Kate Waggoner), Jericho Dickey (companion Sara Ladley), Matt (Jodi) Garrett, Jacob Garrett, Darcy Garrett (companion Blake Prasun), Cole Montgomery (companion Hailey Pritchett), Claire Montgomery (companion Brayden Johnson); nine great-grandchildren; six step-great-grandchildren; two new great-granddaughters on the way; niece: Connie Anderson, nephews: Robert(Toni) Germann, Jeff Germann(companion Kimberly Swartzka), Scott (Tonya) Flemming and several great-nieces, great-nephews and cousins. She was preceded in death by her parents, son: Cameron Dickey, sister: Bonnie Flemming and Son-in-Law: Curt Garrett.

Visitation will be held on Friday, May 28, 2021 from 10:00-11:00 a.m.at Sutton Memorial Home in Taylorville. Funeral service will be held immediately following the visitation starting at 11:00 at Sutton Memorial Home in Taylorville with Jeff Germann officiating. Burial will be in Oak Hill Cemetery in Taylorville. There will be a potluck dinner following the committal service at the Moose Lodge.

Memorials may be made to the donor’s choice

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

Please sign our online guest book at suttonmemorialhome.com

Retha Ellen McAley, 83, of Taylorville, Illinois, passed away May 19, 2021, at St. John’s Hospital in Springfield, Illinois. She was born June 14, 1937, in Pana, Illinois, to Frank N. and H. Irene (Tull) Presnell. She grew up in Pana and Urbana-Champaign, Illinois, graduating from Champaign High School in 1955.

Her work life over many years included various administrative and social service occupations. Her last position was one of her favorites: preschool classroom foster grandparent in Taylorville. In the 1980s she owned and operated the Cork & Keg Bar in Taylorville.

Retha was a constant reader and a crossword puzzle devotee. She was a member of the Taylorville Library Book Club and the Taylorville Senior Police Academy (TRIAD). She was a good storyteller, and she had an uncanny ability to find greeting cards with just the right meaning or message. Much beloved by family and friends, she will be remembered for her caring nature, her joy of life, her sense of humor, and her honesty—she hated hypocrisy with a passion. Those who knew her admired her for her determination never to be disrespected or dependent, and she faced the end of her life with courage, dignity, and grace.

She is survived by her sister, Caroline R. Presnell of Skokie, Illinois; two brothers: Frank "Jerry" L. Presnell of Chico, California; Rev. William B. (Nancy) Presnell of Florham Park, New Jersey; three daughters: Jan M. Alexander, Savoy, Illinois; JoEllyn McAley, Lombard, Illinois; and Susan McAley, Parowan, Utah; three grandchildren: Petty Officer 1st Class Joseph D. Moritz, Panama Beach, Florida; Dr. Bridgette (Nate) Peal and Emily (Luke) Kennedy, both of Oconomowoc, Wisconsin; several nieces and nephews; and her nearly lifelong friends Cathy Hunter of Taylorville, Illinois, and Mary Kay Phillips of Champaign, Illinois.

She was preceded in death by her parents and her son, Kevin McAley-McCann.

There will be no formal memorial gathering. McClure Funeral Home and Cremation Services has performed cremation, and the ashes will be scattered sometime in the future in a location yet to be chosen.

Elaine Bliler, 87 of Taylorville passed away on Thursday, May 20, 2021 at 12:18 p.m. peacefully at her home with her family by her side. She was born on March 4, 1934 in Decatur, IL the daughter of J. Everett and Leona (Scott) Brown. Elaine married her high school sweetheart Dr. Marion D. “Doc” Bliler on June 28, 1953 and they had celebrated their 59^th wedding anniversary just before his passing on November 8, 2012. She was an instrumental part of her husband’s Veterinary practice. Elaine enjoyed attending activities of the children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She enjoyed gardening and was an avid Illini Basketball fan. Elaine was a member of Davis Memorial Christian Church for over 60 years.

She is survived by her Daughters: Sharon (Kent) Bangert, Ronda (Mike) Fassero, Karla (Lee) Meteer; Sons: Mikel (Jane) Bliler, Kevin (Penny) Bliler; Grandchildren: Phil Bliler, Jennifer Dammerman, Jill Hedden, Nate Bliler, Keith Bliler, Lindsey Stork, Kathryn Mentzer, Colene German, Allyson Diebold, Travis Meteer, Weston Meteer, Chance Meteer, Rochelle Meteer; Twenty-six Great-Grandchildren; Brother: C. William Brown; Brother-in-Law: Howard Yoder and several nieces, nephews and cousins. Grandma was greeted in heaven by her parents, Husband, grandchildren Ryan Fassero, Gail Bliler, Drew Bangert, Sister: Eleanor Zeeb and Sister-in-Law: Kaye Yoder.

Visitation will be held on Sunday, May 23, 2021 from 3:00-5:00 p.m. at Sutton Memorial Home in Taylorville. Funeral service will be on Monday, May 24, 2021 at 10:00 a.m. at Davis Memorial Christian Church in Taylorville with Pastor Tiney Walker officiating. Burial will be in Glen Haven Memorial Gardens in Taylorville.

Memorials may be made to Davis Memorial Christian Church 1500 W. Franklin St. Taylorville, IL 62568.

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

Please sign our online guest book at suttonmemorialhome.com

Jerry Allen Nation, 39, of St. Louis, Missouri, formerly of Stonington, Illinois, passed away on Wednesday, May 12, 2021. He was born on December 25, 1981 in Hillsboro. Jerry worked as a tower crane operator at large construction sites around the country. He loved spending time outdoors. Family and friends will always remember him as a loving, outgoing person who never met a stranger. More than anything he loved his daughter, Madison.

He is survived by his daughter: Madison Nation of St. Louis, Missouri; mother: Jenny Nation of Stonington; brothers: Maurice Burkey of Blue Mound and Frank Nation, wife Billie, of Taylorville; nieces and nephews: Marissa, Will, Mackenna, and Morgan; and great niece: Hadleigh.

Jerry will be cremated, and his family will host a celebration of life at a later date. McClure Funeral Home and Cremation Services in Taylorville is assisting the family with arrangements. Memories of Jerry, or condolences to his family, may be shared online at www.mcclurefuneralhome.com.

Marjorie Bell Cohoon, 78 of Taylorville passed away on Friday, May 14, 2021 at 4:11 a.m. at Taylorville Skilled Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in Taylorville, IL. She was born on March 25, 1943 in Taylorville, IL the daughter of William Loren “Buck” and Dorothy Bell (Daniels) Luttrell. She married Alec Cohoon Jr. on September 4, 1962 in Springfield, IL and he preceded her in death on November 20, 2016.

She is survived by her Step-Daughter: Brenda Vidmar of Taylorville, IL and Debra Walton of Taylorville, IL; Sisters: Linda Buracker of Missouri, Mary Dean of Pana, IL; Brothers: Howard “Bill” Luttrell Sr. and Jerry Luttrell; several nieces, nephews and cousins. She was preceded in death by her Step-Son: Alec Randall Cohoon and two sisters in fantcy: Dorothy May and Arlene.

Upon Marge’s request she will be cremated and there will be no services

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

Please sign our online guest book at suttonmemorialhome.com

Brandon Lee Estes, 36 of Taylorville passed away on Saturday, May 15, 2021 at 4:45 p.m. at Taylorville Memorial Hospital in Taylorville, IL. He was born on October 25, 1984 in Olney, IL the son of Roger Estes and Robyn Lazzarini. He married Erica Garner on June 14, 2008 in Rosamond, IL. He worked as a switchman at Norfolk Southern Rail Road in Decatur, IL for the last 16 years. Brandon loved going on food adventures with his wife, being with his dogs Remington and Austin, spending time with his family and friends, collecting sports cards and watching sports. He never knew a stranger and would have done absolutely anything for anyone. He had the most infectious laugh and smile and the greatest personality.

He is survived by his wife: Erica Estes of Taylorville, IL; parents: Roger Estes of Taylorville, IL and Robyn Lazzarini of Decatur, IL; sister: Heather (Brian) Thompson of Fishers, IN; brother: Heath (Candi) Estes of Effingham, IL; grandparents: Judy and Larry Stringer of Taylorville, IL, Jim Adkins of Pana, IL; nieces: Avery Bruns, Reese Bruns, Lilly Merritt, Audrey Thompson nephews: Jaxon Estes, Jonah LeDuc, Adam LeDuc, Evan Thompson, and several beloved cousins. He was preceded in death by his Great-Grandparents: Berlin and Catherine Sparling, Walt and Marilyn Lazzarini Sr., Grandparents: Charlotte Adkins, Walt Lazzarini Jr.

Visitation will be held on Saturday, May 22, 2021 from 4:00-7:00 p.m. at Sutton Memorial Home in Taylorville. Brandon would have loved everyone to wear your favorite sports attire or come casual to the visitation. Funeral service will be held immediately following the visitation starting at 7:00 p.m. at Sutton Memorial Home in Taylorville with Sr. Rose McKeown officiating. Inurnment will be held at a later date.

Memorials may be made to the family C/O Sutton Memorial Home 327 N. Clay Taylorville, IL 62568

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

Please sign our online guest book at suttonmemorialhome.com

Mrs. JoAnne Hale Tylman, 76, of Taylorville, passed away peacefully on Sunday, May 16, 2021 at Saint Francis Hospital in Peoria, from COPD complications secondary to a successful Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm surgery. JoAnne lived a full life and spent her time in this world living fully, learning always, giving generously and teaching patiently.

She was born on April 22, 1945 to Reverend Floyd I. Hale and Dorothy C. (Pickett) Hale in Mt. Vernon. Since her father was serving in the Navy when she was born, he didn’t see his only daughter until January of 1946. When her father decided to attend college in 1948, the family moved to Wilmore, KY, then to Lyerly, GA in 1951 while her father earned his Doctorate of Divinity at Emory University.
    
Upon the Hale family’s return to Illinois JoAnne attended elementary school in Elizabethtown, junior high school in Vienna, and eighth grade through twelfth grade in Johnston City, where she received her high school diploma in May of 1963. JoAnne spent her freshman college year at McKendree College, in Lebanon and her sophomore year at Southern Illinois University in Carbondale. After completing her second year of university learning in 1965, she decided to take a sabbatical from education. She moved to St. Louis, MO and worked for a law firm for six months and then moved to Kansas City, MO where she worked as a restaurant server for six months. In the Fall of 1966 JoAnne returned to Illinois for her junior year at Eastern Illinois University (EIU) in Charleston.
    
During the Summer of 1967 JoAnne met her future husband, Stanley (but she always called him Skip - his family nickname), newly discharged from the U.S. Army, who was about to attend EIU also. As JoAnne and Skip grew closer, she left EIU and obtained an office position at Moody Manufacturing in Mattoon.
    
On June 1, 1968, JoAnne and Skip were married by her father at the Grayville Methodist Church (actually the Presbyterian Church as the Methodist Church was being renovated).? ? After the couple honeymooned in St. Louis, MO, JoAnne returned to work supporting Skip as he continued his course work.
    
On June 27, 1970, JoAnne gave birth to her lovely daughter, Michelle Rae. Upon Skip’s graduation later that Summer, he obtained a job, and the family moved to Taylorville. JoAnne was eager to return to work and contribute to the family’s well-being. When Michelle was three years old, JoAnne’s retired neighbor (Michelle adopted Lenora Sheahan as her third grandmother) volunteered to care for the child, while JoAnne worked for the Child Care Association in Springfield.
    
When Michelle started her education in 1976, JoAnne returned to the position of a full-time mother, and on December 5, 1979 she gave birth to her second lovely daughter, Emily Kathryn. Four years later JoAnne resumed her education at Lincoln Land Community College and Sangamon State University. In 1984 she resumed her career. She taught children to read in the Kincaid, Edinburg, Stonington and Taylorville schools until she retired in 2004.
    
In 2004 JoAnne cruised the Caribbean with her father after her mother passed away. In 2010 she and Skip visited London, England after he retired in 2009. In 2013 she and Skip joined her father and his wife, Alice, for a two-week cruise of the Mediterranean. In 2018, for their fiftieth wedding anniversary, JoAnne and Skip cruised the Caribbean. They enjoyed it so much they repeated the same cruise in 2019.
    
At the same time JoAnne was active in the Taylorville community. She was a member of the Preceptor Sorority (XI Delta Theta), and the Sertoma Service Club.
    
She was preceded in death by her mother, Dorothy; and her father, Floyd.? ? 
    
She is survived by her husband, Stanley; her daughters, Michelle R. (husband, Tim) Sleevar, and Emily K. Tylman; four grandchildren who lovingly referred to her as “Grandma Pumpkin”, Savannah R. Sleevar, Nicholas P. Sleevar, Harper M. Tylman, and Cooper S. Tylman; her brothers, Larry L. (wife, Brenda) Hale, Paul I. (wife, Dixie) Hale, and J. Mark (wife, Anita) Hale.

Visitation & Funeral Ceremony: The family will receive guest from 2:00 p.m. until the time of the funeral ceremony at 4:00 p.m. on Sunday, May 23, 2021 at Shafer-Perfetti & Assalley Funeral Home, 202 W. Franklin Street, Taylorville, IL 62568 with Pastor Beck Lembke officiating.? ? The family will receive guests after the funeral ceremony until 5:30 p.m.

Private family interment will be held at Oakwood Cemetery in Mt. Vernon.

Memorial contributions may be made to: First United Methodist Church, 200 S. Walnut Street, Taylorville, IL 62568, or the American Civil Liberties Union, 150 N. Michigan Ave. Suite 600, Chicago, IL 60601.

Please visit www.assalleyfuneralhomes.com to share memories of JoAnne, or offer condolences to her family.

James H. Norris, 90 of Taylorville passed away on Thursday, May 13, 2021 at 7:05 a.m. at Taylorville Skilled Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in Taylorville, IL. He was born on July 6, 1930 the son of James W.and Myrtle (Bryan) Norris in Owaneco, IL. He was an Army veteran and served during the Korean War and he spent his life farming in Christian County.

James is survived by several cousins. He was preceded in death by his parents, and a sister Harriet Norris.

Visitation will be held on Monday, May 17, 2021 from 10:00-11:00 a.m. at Sutton Memorial Home in Taylorville. Funeral service will be held immediately following the visitation starting at 11:00 a.m. at Sutton Memorial Home in Taylorville with Pastor James Jones officiating. Interment and military graveside honors will be held at Oak Hill Cemetery in Taylorville, IL.

Memorials may be made to the Salvation Army 530 N. 6^th St. Springfield, IL 62702

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

Please sign our online guest book at suttonmemorialhome.com

Sheila J. Smith, 68, of Taylorville, passed away at 5:16 a.m. on Wednesday, May 12, 2021 at Taylorville Memorial Hospital.

Sheila was born June 24, 1952 in Hillsboro, the daughter of Robert and Sharon (Traylor) Altevogt.  Raised in rural Irving on the family farm, Sheila was the oldest of five daughters.  She was independent and honest, but was always looking out for her younger sisters.  Sheila graduated from Witt High School with the Class of 1970, and went on to proudly serve her country in the United States Air Force. Upon her honorable discharge, she stayed in Arizona, where she held several different jobs with the federal government, eventually retiring from the Social Security Administration.  It was in Arizona where she met her husband, Earl R. Smith. He preceded her in death in 2007, and shortly after Sheila relocated to Taylorville to be closer to her family.  She loved a challenge, and was excellent at completing Sudoku, crossword puzzles, and jigsaw puzzles.  Sheila also loved animals, especially cats.

She was also preceded in death by her parents; sisters, Peggy Portwood and Donna Wilhelm; and nephew, Brian Williamson.

Sheila is survived by her sisters, Shirley (husband, Jim) Cooper of Taylorville, and Roberta Altevogt of Witt; niece, Angela (husband, John) O’Mahony of Austin, TX; great niece, Harlow O’Mahony; two aunts; two uncles; and several cousins.

Sheila will be cremated and no public services will be held.

Memorial contributions may be made to: Christian County Animal Control, 300 S. Baughman Road, Taylorville, IL 62568.

The family has entrusted Shafer-Perfetti & Assalley Funeral Home in Taylorville with arrangements.

Please visit www.assalleyfuneralhomes.com to share memories of Sheila, or offer condolences to her family.

Jay Leon Colonius, 57 of Denver, Colorado, passed away on Tuesday, May 11, 2021 at Rose Medical Center in Denver.  He was born on September 2, 1963 in Pana, Illinois, the son of James L. and Cornelia M. (Klinefelter) Colonius.  He married Linita Autida Cutas on September 26, 2008 in Denver.  Jay loved music, baseball (especially the St. Louis Cardinals and Colorado Rockies), collecting coins, Star Trek and telling corny jokes.  He also enjoyed history and participated in several Civil War reenactments.

Jay is survived by his wife: Linita Cutas Colonius of Denver, Colorado; siblings: Neal Colonius (Marcia) of Rock Hill, South Carolina, Brenda Colonius of Centennial, Colorado, and Mark Colonius of Shelbyville, Illinois; nieces and nephews: Mackinzey Colonius Ridenour, Tristan Colonius, and Casey Colonius; great niece and nephew: Norrell and Laney Mae; and many cousins.  He was preceded in death by his parents. 

A visitation for Jay will take place from 4 until 6pm on Sunday, May 16, 2021 at McClure Funeral Home in Taylorville, Illinois.  The funeral service will be at 10:00am on Monday at the funeral home with Rev. Mark Milhouse officiating.  Burial will take place in the Buckeye Prairie Cemetery in rural Owaneco.  Memorials in Jay’s memory may be left to Buckeye United Methodist Church.  McClure Funeral Home and Cremation Services in Taylorville is assisting the Colonius family with arrangements.  Memories of Jay, or condolences to his family, may be shared online at www.mcclurefuneralhome.com.

Marilyn F. Locasio, 74 of Edinburg, died at 2:20 a.m., Tuesday, May 11, 2021 at Taylorville Care Center. She was born on July 5, 1945 to Harold Andrew Kloppenburg & Irene Lorraine Richey, in Springfield. Marilyn attended Catholic schools in Springfield, and after her high school graduation she moved to the Chicago area where she lived until 1996. Marilyn returned to Springfield in 1997 and was employed by the State of Illinois. She worked at the Capitol and the Willard Ice building until she retired in 2011. When she was not working, she loved a good road trip and all the stops along the way. In her later years she enjoyed quilting and going to quilt shows. Marilyn was a loving companion, mother, and grandmother and she will be dearly missed.

Marilyn is survived by her daughter Lori Hess, husband Steve Hess, and grandsons Donovan, Dyllan, and Braeden of Ringwood, Illinois. Her son Timothy Sheridan and his wife, Gretchen Sheridan, grandson Giovanni, and granddaughter Aria, of Island Lake, Illinois; her loving companion Robert “Bob” Randolph of Edinburg; her sister, Karolyn Gandee of Scottsdale, Arizona; and her brother, Edward Kloppenburg of Bangor, Wisconsin.

She was preceded in death by her parents and husbands William “Bill” Sheridan and Robert “Tuna” Locascio.

A celebration of her life will be held at a later date. McClure Funeral Home and Cremation Services in Taylorville is assisting the family with arrangements. Memories of Marilyn, or condolences to her family, may be shared online at www.mcclurefuneralhome.com.

Duane L. Law, 84 of Taylorville passed away on Sunday, May 9, 2021 at 4:44 p.m. at Memorial Medical Center in Springfield, IL. He was born on December 22, 1936 the son of Herbert and Edith (Askins) Law. He married Izola Law on December 20, 1969 and she preceded him in death on July 16, 2013. Duane worked as a Coal Miner at Peabody Mine #10 and he was a member of the United Mine Workers of America.

He is survived by his Daughters: Debbie Hawthorne of Vandalia, IL; Catherine Law of Indiana; Sons: Richard Law of Kankakee, IL, Tracy Law (Lyndsay Cooper) of Taylorville, IL; Grandchildren: Zach Law of Taylorville, IL; Blake Law of Taylorville, IL; Jaxon Law of Raymond, IL; Lily and Caden Law of Campus, IL; Ramie Carrol of Vandalia, IL; Quinby Hawthorne of Vandalia, IL; Blake Patchett of Campus, IL; Brother: Steve Law of Taylorville, IL and Several Great-Grandchildren, nieces, nephews and cousins. He was preceded in death by his parents, wife, Brother: Carroll Law and Sister: Marilyn Boch.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, May 14, 2021 from 5:00-7:00 p.m. at Sutton Memorial Home in Taylorville. Funeral service will be held immediately following the visitation starting at 7:00 p.m. at Sutton Memorial Home in Taylorville with Sr. Rose McKeown officiating. Inurnment and military graveside honors will be held at a later date in Owaneco Cemetery in Owaneco, IL.

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

Please sign our online guest book at suttonmemorialhome.com

Alberta Dalene Griffin Nee Polston, 93 of Taylorville formerly of Effingham and Mattoon passed away on Monday, May 10, 2021 at 3:09 a.m. at Taylorville Estates in Taylorville, IL. She was born on March 14, 1928 in Raymond, IL the daughter of Joe and Minnie Polston. She married Robert L. Griffin on May 11, 1947 in Raymond, IL and he preceded her in death on December 12, 2006. She worked as the secretary for the Mattoon, IL School District for 17 years and for 30 years Alberta and Griff would spend summers in Alaska with their sons and families.

She is survived by her Son: Robert L. Griffin of Anchorage, AK; Grandchildren: Robert L. Griffin of Oregon, Matthew Griffin of California, Janelle Chapin and Jeremy Griffin both of Fairbanks, AK; Great-Grandchildren: Russell Savok, Areena Chapin, Griffy Griffin, Josslyn Griffin, Dakota Griffin; Brother: Ron (Mary Ann) Polston; many nieces, nephews and cousins. She was preceded in death by her parents, husband: Robert, Son: Russell Griffin, Sisters: Lillian Herzog, Louise Bruntjen, Alice Perry, Brothers: Roscoe, Woodrow, Joe, Wilbur and Robert.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, May 12, 2021 from 10:00-11:00 a.m. at Sutton Memorial Home in Taylorville. Funeral service will be held immediately following the visitation starting at 11:00 a.m. at Sutton Memorial Home in Taylorville with Pastor Bill Kerns officiating. Burial will be in Camp Butler National Cemetery in Springfield, IL.

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

Please sign our online guest book at suttonmemorialhome.com

Susan Diane Patrick-Shears, 64 of Taylorville, passed away at 5:40pm on Saturday, May 8, 2021 in her home. She was born on July 1, 1956 in Hillsboro, the daughter of Merle L. and Patricia M. (Durbin) Herpstreith. She married Steven Shears on February 1, 2003 in Taylorville. Susan worked for over 30 years at Horace Mann in Springfield as an IT Specialist. She was baptized in the Catholic faith at St. Barbara’s Catholic Church in Witt. Susan enjoyed crafts, flowers, and gardening. She enjoyed taking trips to the casino and won on many occasions. More than anything, Susan adored her grandson Conner, and loved attending his football and baseball games.

She is survived by her husband: Steven Shears of Taylorville; mother: Patricia Herpstreith of Owaneco; son: Adam Patrick (Victoria) of Heyworth; daughter: Amy Loughry (Richard) of Las Vegas, Nevada; grandson: Conner Patrick; brothers: Richard Herpstreith of Irving, Kevin Herpstreith (Patti) of Nokomis, Jim Herpstreith of Mt. Olive, Charles Herpstreith (Cindy) of Taylorville, and Robert Herpstreith of Taylorville; and several nieces, nephews, and cousins. Susan was preceded in death by her father; brothers: David Herpstreith and Gary Herpstreith; and beloved dog, Katie.

A funeral service for Susan will be held at 11:00am on Thursday, May 13, 2021 at McClure Funeral Home in Taylorville with Monsignor David Lantz officiating. Visitation will take place on Wednesday from 5 until 7pm at the funeral home. Burial will take place at Oak Hill Cemetery in Taylorville. Memorials may be made to a fund for her grandson, Conner, or to the wishes of the donor. McClure Funeral Home and Cremation Services in Taylorville is assisting the family with arrangements. Memories of Susan, or condolences to her family, may be shared online at www.mcclurefuneralhome.com.

Richard Edwin Kerns, 65 of Taylorville, passed away at 3:14am on Thursday, May 6, 2021 in his home following a courageous battle with pancreatic cancer. He was born on January 4, 1956 in Decatur, the son of Roy and Roberta “Betty” (Dasher) Kerns. He married Carla Jo Arthur on July 31, 1999 in Taylorville. Richard received an electronics technician degree from Lincoln Land Community College and worked for many years as an IBEW Union Electrician. He attended Taylorville Evangelical Free Church. He and his family were very active in Boy Scouts throughout the years and Richard earned the rank of Eagle Scout. He was an avid fan of the L.A. Dodgers and Fighting Illini Sports. He loved spending time outdoors especially working in his large garden. Richard loved bowling and competed in many leagues throughout his life. More than anything, he had a love of family, especially his grandchildren and great nieces and nephews.

He is survived by his wife: Carla Jo Kerns of Taylorville; children: Dustin Hensley of Cleveland, Ohio and Meagan Knepler of Taylorville; grandchildren: Zachary Hensley, Kolby Ford, and Korbin Ford; sister: Doris Green (Randy) of Taylorville; sister-in-law: Marty Kerns-Boosinger (James) of Sherman; and several nieces, nephews, great nieces and nephews, and cousins. He was preceded in death by his parents and brother: Michael Kerns.

The funeral service for Richard will take place at 10:00am on Monday, May 10, 2021 at McClure Funeral Home in Taylorville with Rev. Don Beetem officiating. Burial will take place at Oak Hill Cemetery in Taylorville. Visitation will be held from 4:00pm until 6:00pm on Sunday at the funeral home. Memorials in Richard’s memory may be made to the Kerns Family or Cub Scout Pack 132. McClure Funeral Home and Cremation Services in Taylorville is assisting the family with arrangements. Memories of Richard, or condolences to his family, may be shared online at www.mcclurefuneralhome.com.

Mr. Earl Ray Acup, 83, of Taylorville, IL died Tuesday, May 4, 2021 at Memorial Medical Center, Springfield, IL.

He was born in East Alton, IL on May 1, 1938 the son of Josh and Eunice (Beatty) Acup. He married Dayna L. Ray on December 18, 1982 in Lincoln, IL.

Mr. Acup retired from the Illinois State Police as a Master Sergeant. He served in the United States Naval Reserve and was a social member of V.F.W. Post 4495 in Taylorville, a member of the Fraternal Order of Police and was a 60-year member of the Taylorville Moose Club.

Surviving are his wife Dayna Acup of Taylorville, IL. a son Steven (Tammy) Acup of Florida, with 2 granddaughters Anna and Stephanie Acup of Virginia a son Dayne Altman of Lincoln, IL with a grandson Aaron (Danielle) Altman of Decatur, IL and 4 great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents and a brother Lloyd Acup.

Graveside services at Oak Hill Cemetery, Taylorville, IL will be announced at a later date. Masterson Funeral Home in Kincaid is honored to be assisting with his care. Condolences may be left at mastersonfh.com and will be forwarded to his family.

Kathy Ann Oglesby, 61 of Kincaid, IL passed away on Wednesday, May 5, 2021 at 3:000 a.m. at St. John’s Hospital in Springfield, IL. She was born on June 6, 1959 in Vandalia, IL the daughter of Ira S.and Betty J. (Mullen) Oglesby Sr. She was a CNA for several years.

She is survived by her fiancée of over 30 years, James M. Timm of Kincaid, IL, Daughter: Stacey A. Nance of Taylorville, Grandchildren: Angela N. McKinnon of Kincaid, IL and Kelly A. McKinnon of Taylorville, IL, Sister: Brenda J. Oglesby of Vandalia, IL, Brothers: Jim Oglesby of Springfield, IL, Randy (Diane) Oglesby of Greenville, IL, John Oglesby of Vandalia, IL and Ira “Jr” (Julie) Oglesby Jr. of Greenville, IL and several aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and cousins. Kathy was preceded in death by her parents and brother: Ron Oglesby.

There will be a visitation on Monday, May 10. 2021 from 4:00-7:00 p.m. at Sutton Memorial Home in Taylorville, IL. Funeral services will be on Tuesday, May 11, 2021 at 10:00 a.m. at Sutton Memorial Home in Taylorville, IL with Pastor Chad Foster officiating. She will be buried in Oak Hill Cemetery immediately following the funeral service.

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

Please sign our online guest book at suttonmemorialhome.com

Mr. David "Dave" Howard, 69, of Tovey, IL departed this life Saturday, May 1, 2021 from St. John's Hospital, Springfield.
He was born in Taylorville, IL December 15, 1951 the son of Leo T. and Dorothy (McKinney) Howard.
Mr. Howard was a 1971 graduate of South Fork High School.  He retired from Peabody Mine #10.  He was a huge Elvis Presley and St. Louis Cardinals Fan, and member of the U.M.W.A. Dave enjoyed good times with family and friends and he especially enjoyed spoiling his granddaughters.
Surviving are a daughter Meagan and her husband Charlie Burney, a son Chris Howard and 2 granddaughters Emilee and Bristol Burney, a brother Kevin (Joann) Howard all of Tovey, IL along with nieces, nephews and many friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents and brothers Kenneth and Richard Howard.
Private Family Services will be held with Rev. Chad Foster officiating.  Burial will be in Oak Hill Cemetery, Taylorville, IL.  A Celebration of the life of Mr. David Howard will begin at 3:00 P.M. on Saturday, May 8th, 2021 at Bart's Place in Tovey, IL.  Everyone is invited to attend.  Masterson Funeral Home in Kincaid is honored to be assisting his family.  Condolences may also be left at mastersonfh.com and will be forwarded to his family.

Bart Keith Thomas, 57 of Flora, passed away at 3:02am on Sunday, May 2, 2021 in his home, surrounded by his family. He was born on May 20, 1963 in Taylorville, the son of Ward and Sue (Beaty) Thomas. Bart had a love of people, he was the most content when he was surrounded by friends and family that were engaging in good conversation. He enjoyed bells, and when he wasn’t holding one, there would certainly be one found nearby.

He is survived by his mother: Sue Thomas of Edinburg; siblings: Delton Thomas of Warrensburg, Jo Ellen Davis (Kenneth) of Edinburg, Matthew Thomas (Barbara) of Monticello, and Jill Morman (Kent) of Edinburg; and several aunts, uncles, nieces, and nephews. Bart was preceded in death by his father Ward Thomas.

Bart will be cremated, and no services will be held at this time. McClure Funeral Home and Cremation Services in Taylorville is assisting the family with arrangements. Condolences to his family may be left online at www.mcclurefuneralhome.com.

William Ronald Harris, 89 of Taylorville, passed away at 5:42am on Sunday, May 2, 2021 at Taylorville Care Center. He was born on September 3, 1931 in Chicago, the son of Leonard David and Violet Mae (White) Harris. He married Emma Jane Rea on October 22, 1950 in Sesser, Illinois. Mr. Harris proudly served his country during the Korean conflict with the U.S. Navy. He earned his bachelor’s degree from Southern Illinois University, Carbondale and went on to receive his master’s degree from Arizona State University. Bill retired as principal of Memorial School in Taylorville where he worked for many years. He was a member of the Taylorville First United Methodist Church. He was a 32^nd Degree Mason, Shriner, member of the Lion’s Club, V.F.W., and the Moose Lodge. Bill enjoyed spending time outside fishing, hunting, and golfing. Above all he was a loving husband, father, and grandfather.

He is survived by his wife: Emma Harris of Taylorville; daughter: Linda Micenheimer (Jim) of Taylorville; son: Michael Harris (Deborah) of Scottsdale, Arizona; grandchildren: Michelle Feasel (Barry) of Murfreesboro, Tennessee, Jamie Werve (Kyle) of North Aurora, Curt Micenheimer (Jessica) of Taylorville, and Chase Micenheimer (Katie) of Taylorville; and great grandchildren: Cole Werve, Paige Werve, Collin Micenheimer, Kaylee Micenheimer, and Emmitt Micenheimer. He was preceded in death by his parents and 4 siblings.

Mr. Harris will be cremated and a graveside service with military rites will be held at 1pm on Wednesday, May 5, 2021 at Camp Butler National Cemetery in Springfield. Memorials in his honor may be left to the Taylorville VFW/American Legion Honor Guard or the Shriners Hospital in St. Louis. McClure Funeral Home and Cremation Services in Taylorville is assisting the family with arrangements. Memories of William, or condolences to his family, may be left online at www.mcclurefuneralhome.com.