Mark R. Beeson, 63, of Taylorville, passed away at 12:00 p.m. on Wednesday, July 28, 2021 at his residence.

Mark was born April 30, 1958 in Pana, the son of Glenn and Dolores (Lake) Beeson.

He graduated from Taylorville High School with the Class of 1976. Mark worked for Calco Express in Green Bay, WI as a truck driver for many years.

He was preceded in death by his parents; grandparents, Ross and Frances Lake; brothers, Timothy and Bart “Tony” Beeson; sisters, Monica Hughes, Kelly Jo Beeson, Denise Beeson; step-father and step-mother, Larry and Mary Uhrick; and niece, Stephanie DisPennett.

Mark is survived by his sister, Nina Worker Armstrong of Pana; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Cremation will be accorded and no public services will be held.

Memorial Contributions may be made to: The Family of Mark R. Beeson, c/o Shafer-Perfetti & Assalley Funeral Home.

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

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

Linda R Stephens, 80 of Decatur, formerly of Taylorville, passed away at 12:53 a.m. on Friday, July 30, 2021 at Decatur Memorial Hospital.  She was born on June 27, 1941 in Boody, the daughter of Marion Taylor and Myrtle Edris (Hunter) Kidd.  Linda graduated from Mt. Auburn High School in 1961.  She married Robert C Stephens on December 9, 1973 in Mt. Auburn, and he preceded her in death on June 25, 2007.  Linda worked previously in sewing factories in Decatur and Taylorville, and she spent many years working as a housekeeper.  She was a member of Taylorville Christian Church where she enjoyed helping care for children in the nursery.  Linda loved country music, especially Conway Twitty.  She enjoyed cooking and proudly served as an election judge for many years.  She had a love for cats and was previously a member of the “Spotlight Players” theater group.  Recently she enjoyed playing cards and Wii Bowling with her apartment neighbors.  

Linda is survived by her sons: William Dean Howard of Springfield and Sherman Howard of Decatur; siblings: Sarah Nance and Tom Kidd both of Decatur; stepsons: Randy Stephens (Renee) of Litchfield and Gregg Stephens (Mary) of Taylorville; several step grandchildren; step great grandchildren: Johnny Foster, Patrick Priddy and Jacob Priddy all of Springfield; niece: Tammy Jo Pearson (Charles) of Decatur; and great niece: Cheryl Pearson of Tamarack, Florida.  She was preceded in death by her parents; husband; and brothers: Bill Kidd and Ron Kidd.

The funeral service for Linda will be held at 11:00am on Wednesday, August 4, 2021 at McClure Funeral Home in Taylorville with Pastor James Jones officiating.  Visitation will take place from 10:00am until the time of service Wednesday at the funeral home.  Burial will be in the Fraley Cemetery in Taylorville.  Memorials may be left to Cancer Care Specialist of Illinois.  McClure Funeral Home and Cremation Services in Taylorville is handling arrangements.  Memories of Linda, or condolences to the family, may be shared online at www.mcclurefuneralhome.com.

Vera L. Girup, 85 of Mt. Auburn passed away on Tuesday, July 27, 2021 at 4:15 p.m. at her home in rural Mt. Auburn, IL. She was born on October 1, 1935 in Edinburg, IL the daughter of Vern and Charlotte (Haubold) Patton. She married Peter Girup on June 14, 1958 in Glen Ellen, IL and he preceded her in death on December 25, 1998.

She is survived by her sons: Jack (Jennifer) Girup of Athens, IL; David (Jennie) Girup of Mt. Auburn, IL; Steven (Susan) Blackburn of Pleasant Valley, CT; grandchildren: Miles Patton, Michelle Ferguson, Peter Girup, James Girup, Averill Blackburn, Steven Blackburn, Amanda Mikula; great-grandchild: Kaylie Ferguson; cousins: Sherry Gilpin of Taylorville, IL; and Jan (Paul) Smith of Riverton, IL and many other great-grandchildren, nieces and cousins. She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, son: Richard Girup; sisters: Rose and Opal Patton; brother: Vernell Patton.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, August 4, 2021 from 9:00-11:00 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 Rev. Steven Blackburn officiating. Burial will follow at Mechanicsburg Cemetery in Mechanicsburg, IL.

Memorials may be made to Animal Protective League 1001 Taintor Rd. Springfield, IL 62702 or Christian County Animal Shelter 300 Baughman Rd. Taylorville, IL 62568.

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

Please sign our online guest book at suttonmemorialhome.com

Melba D. Weaver, 93, of Assumption, died July 27, 2021 in Heritage Manor, Mt. Zion, IL.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. Saturday, July 31, 2021 in Seitz Funeral Home, Assumption.  Visitation will begin one hour prior to service time.  Burial will be in Pleasant View Cemetery, Assumption.

Melba was born September 14, 1927 in Herrick, IL, the daughter of Austa and Edith (Ruff) Jackson.  She married Lloyd William Weaver on April 5, 1947 in Hammond, IL.  He preceded her in death on November 23, 2008.

Melba was a member of Assumption Christian Church and formerly worked for Trulocks and P.C. Limited.

Surviving are her daughter, Jeanne Jones, of Moweaqua, IL; grandson, Jeffrey H. Weaver, of Carbondale, IL; sisters: Patsy Manley of Columbus, MS, Carolyn (Jim)  Epley of Pana, IL and Sandra Bridgman of Moweaqua, IL; and sisters-in-law: Marguerite Jackson, of Assumption, IL and Martha Jackson, of Witt, IL.

Preceding her in death are her husband, Lloyd; parents; son, Jeffrey L. Weaver; brothers: Leroy Jackson and Joe Jackson; sisters: Helen Fouts and Lenora Nohren; and son-in-law, John J Jones.

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

Ruth E. Mitchell, 97, of Taylorville, passed away at 2:45 p.m. on Wednesday, July 28, 2021 at Taylorville Care Center.

Ruth was born November 28, 1923 in Bird Township, rural Macoupin County, the daughter of Walter and Mary O. (Joiner) Whittaker. She married Dwain Mitchell on July 21, 1942 in Cape Girardeau, MO. He preceded her in death on December 29, 2011.

Upon graduating high school, Ruth attended Southern Illinois University in Carbondale for two years. She then went on to work as a plant clerk for the telephone company, before becoming a full-time homemaker for Dwain and her two children. Ruth was a long-time member of the First Baptist Church in Taylorville.

She was also preceded in death by her parents; daughter, Carolyn Purdy; son, Roger Mitchell; and siblings, Mary E. Biondolino, and Almer Whittaker.

Ruth is survived by her daughter-in-law, Jackie Mitchell of Cave Creek, AZ; grandchildren, Carolyn (Mike) Cronin, Thomas S. (Michelle Reese) Mitchell, Sr., Michael B. Mitchell, and Jacob L. (Angie Verberg) Mitchell; great grandchildren, Joe Cronin, Crystal Mitchell, Charlotte Mitchell, Thomas S. Mitchell, Jr., Aiden Mitchell, Leo Mitchell, and Katie Verberg; sister, Clela Hines of East Alton; and several nieces and nephews.

A private family graveside ceremony will be held at Fraley Cemetery in Taylorville.

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

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

Paula Marie Patton, 68 of Taylorville passed away on Saturday, July 24, 2021 at 8:54 a.m. at her home in Taylorville, IL. She was born on October 8, 1952 in Monticello, IL the daughter of William and Anna Marie (Wiley) Stanton. She married Terry Patton on July 24, 1982 in Taylorville, IL. She retired as a Business Manager. Paula was a member of Destiny Fellowship Church in Moweaqua, IL. She loved to garden and be in nature.

She is survived by her Husband: Terry Patton of Taylorville, IL; Daughters: Shannon Sheets of Honolulu, HI; Michelle (Jon) Patton-Hergett of Taylorville, IL; Son: Josh (Randi) Sheets of Blue Mound, IL; Grandchildren: Aidan Sheets, Madilyn Kapchinske, McKynlee Kapchinske, Ella Sheets, Drake Hergett and Marli Hergett; Sisters: Marsha Stanton, Jackie Schiminski, April Bone, Judy Coons Marsh, Trudy Williams; Nephews: Greg Koslofski, Brian Polley, Aron Rasar, Tim Koslofski and Niece: Amber Haun. She was preceded in death by her parents.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, July 29, 2021 from 10:00-12:00 p.m. at Sutton Memorial Home in Taylorville. Funeral service will be held immediately following the visitation starting at 12:00 p.m. at Sutton Memorial Home in Taylorville with Pastor Rod Hite officiating. Burial will be in Oak Hill Cemetery in Taylorville.

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

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

Please sign our online guest book at suttonmemorialhome.com

Robert Edwin Smith, Sr., 96 of Stonington, Illinois passed away Saturday, July 24, 2021 at Memorial Hospital in Springfield, IL.
Bob was born September 21, 1924 in Stonington, IL in the Old Stonington Baptist Church parsonage to Ray Herman Smith Sr. and Zintka (Wetzel).  On August 27, 1950, he married Dolores Elaine Mottar at Fairview Baptist Church in Springfield, IL. They raised three children, Debra Sue Penning, Springfield; Robert Edwin, Jr., Northville, MI; and Michael Edwin, LaCrosse, WI.  They had six grandchildren, Samuel Penning (Ezara), Springfield; Emily Penning, Kansas City, MO; Robert III (Bridget), Bloomfield Hills, MI; Christopher; Mark (Amber), LaCrosse, WI; and Michael (Megan), Onalaska, WI.
He is survived by one brother Richard, Bradenton, FL, one sister, Zintka (Polly), Edina, MN; brother-in-law, Robert Mottar, Springfield; and several nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Ray, Jr.; infant sister: Betty Louise Smith; brother-in-law, Richard Mottar, Ventura, CA; son-in-law, John Penning; daughter-in-law, Sue Smith; and grandson Christopher Smith.
Bob graduated in 1942 from Stonington High School.  A year later, while attending Shurtleff College in Alton, IL, he was drafted and entered the Navy where he was a 1st Gunners Mate on a PT boat in the South Pacific.  Following his discharge from the service, he enrolled in Illinois State University where he was a member of the Gamma Phi Circus as an acrobat.  He graduated from ISU in 1949 and started selling insurance with Country Companies in Greenfield, IL, later transferring to Taylorville.  In 1952, Bob started teaching Physical Education, Biology, and Driver Education in Stonington.  In the 1970s he attended the University of Illinois and received his Master’s Degree in Guidance.  In January 1974, he served as interim principal of the high school until the end of the school year.  He retired from teaching in 1988.
During his retirement he had many hobbies. He started painting pictures and made thousands of homemade pocket flashlights (before cellphones had flashlights built in) called Bob-Lites.  These were frequently given to friends, doctors, nurses, and waiters.  He made sure Bob-Lites were in the hands of several NASCAR drivers and even Hank Aaron. His goal was to “put a little lite” in the lives of neighbors, friends, or even complete strangers.
He played golf until his shoulders told him it was time to stop, and mowed his grass almost daily.  You never needed to wonder about the weather when Bob was around, because he was always up to date on radars and forecasts. Former students and colleagues always knew if they had an insect they couldn’t identify, Bob would know.
Travel wasn’t something Bob particularly enjoyed; he would have been just fine staying home all the time.  However, he showed how much he loved Dolores by traveling the world with her, including a trip to Europe and several bus and car trips around the United States with special help from their daughter-in-law Sue.
His creativity was endless, as was his supply of tools and “raw material” that others may call junk.  He saw function in every piece of scrap and room for improvement in almost everything else.  Rather than thinking about IF something could be made better he just made it better. 
Speaking of making things better, Bob always felt that nearly everything could be made better if you just add a little peanut butter.  We are confident he was pleased that the last thing he ate was a Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup.  A life complete.
The family would like to give special thanks to the doctors and nurses in Cardiac ICU and 2E at Memorial Medical Center for their caring spirit.
The funeral service for Bob will be held at 11:30am on Wednesday, July 28, 2021 at the Old Stonington Baptist Church, Stonington, Illinois with Rev. Billy Bob Howard officiating.  Visitation will take place beginning at 10:00am until the time of the service in the church on Wednesday.  Following the services, Mr. Smith will be cremated, and inurnment will take place at a later date in the Old Stonington Cemetery.  Memorials may be left to the Old Stonington Baptist Church or the Stonington Fire Department.  McClure Funeral Home and Cremation Services in Taylorville is assisting the family with arrangements.  Memories of Bob, or condolences to his family, may be shared online at www.mcclurefuneralhome.com.

Jeffrey Lynn “Possum” Prasun, 65 of Taylorville, passed away at 11:45 a.m. on Wednesday, July 21, 2021 in his home, surrounded by his family.  He was born on January 23, 1956 in Taylorville, the son of Leo and Bernadine (Lane) Prasun.  He married Carrie S. Stephens on October 13, 1995 in Taylorville.  Jeff graduated from Taylorville High School in 1975 and worked for 20 years as a truck driver.  Most recently he worked for over 23 years as a mechanic for Waste Management.  Jeff will always be remembered as a hard-working person who seemed to never rest.  In 2017 he started P & G Tree Service with dreams of continuing it in his retirement, a vision that will be carried out by his family.  In his free time, he enjoyed horseback riding and loved spending time with friends, drinking cold beer.  Jeff will be missed dearly by his family and friends.

He is survived by his wife: Carrie Prasun of Taylorville; Kelly Harms (T.J.) of El Paso, Nathan Prasun (Melissa) of Manhattan, and Blake Prasun (Darcy Garrett) of Edinburg; stepchildren: Jason Gaubatz (Mandy) of New Athens, Danny Gaubatz of Taylorville, and Cody Gaubatz of Taylorville; grandchildren: Makayla Harms, Madison Harms, Emerson Harms, Tate Harms, Drake Prasun, Brynn Prasun, Rhett Prasun, and Kacey Mae Prasun; step grandchildren: Dylan Gaubatz and Aidan Gaubatz; siblings: Diana Hunt (companion Gary Manuel) of Taylorville, David L. Prasun (Vickie) of Taylorville, Terry Prasun (Judy) of Stonington, Penny Hamell (Randy) of Taylorville, Annette Wicker of Springfield, Linda Prasun of Taylorville, and Roger Prasun of Taylorville; and many nieces and nephews.  He was preceded in death by his parents and brother: Bradley Prasun.

A visitation for Jeff will take place from 4:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. on Sunday, July 25, 2021 at McClure Funeral Home in Taylorville.  Following the visitation, Jeff will be cremated, and a private family inurnment will take place in Glen Haven Memorial Gardens, Taylorville.  Memorials in his memory may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.  McClure Funeral Home and Cremation Services in Taylorville is assisting the family with arrangements.  Memories of Jeff, or condolences to the family, may be shared online at www.mcclurefuneralhome.com.

Russell Van Summers, 66, of Decatur, IL, passed away at 5:30 p.m. on Sunday, July 18, 2021, in HSHS Good Shepherd Hospital in Shelbyville, IL, with his loved ones by his side.

Russell was born on December 15, 1954, in Decatur, the son of Arthur Van and Lucille E. (Brown) Summers. He was a 1973 graduate of Stonington High School and went on to serve his country for 14 years in the United States Army and Army Reserve. He earned his Bachelor of Science from the University of Illinois in Springfield. Russell and Pamela Halbrook were united in marriage on November 25, 1989 and were blessed with 31 years of marriage. He served as the director of Adventist Community Services and Disaster Response Agency Area II. Russell previously worked for Zexel/Valeo. Right before retiring, he worked for Advantage Sales Solution and was a licensed real estate agent selling for Cutting Edge Realty. Russell was an active member of the Seventh-Day Adventist Church in Stewardson.

Russell never knew a stranger. Unassuming, yet friendly to everyone. Empathic, kind, caring. His heart for those he knew and loved was immeasurable. He accepted everyone at face value. He valued and cherished people for who they were. He loved unconditionally. The world was a much better place, just because he was in it. Russell and his hearty laughter will be missed immensely by his loved ones.

Surviving are his loving wife, Pamela J. Summers; sons: John Troy (Michelle) Wilson, Joseph (April) Wilson and Benjamin (Hillary) Summers, all of Decatur; 15 grandchildren; ten great-grandchildren; two sisters: Loreane (Sam) Robinson of Decatur and Lois (Ed) Blondin of Rockford and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; in-laws, Paul and Star Halbrook; three brothers and three sisters.

Visitation will be held from 4:00-7:00 p.m. on Thursday, July 22, 2021 in Lockart-Green Funeral Home in Shelbyville. Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, July 23, 2021 with Pastor Larry Clonch officiating in the funeral home. Burial will take place in Glenwood Cemetery in Shelbyville with military rites performed by the Shelby County Honor Guard. Memorials may be made in Russell’s name to the Stewardson Seventh-Day Adventist Church, Adventist Community Services or the Adventist Disaster Response Agency and mailed to Lockart-Green Funeral Home, 302 W. Main St., Shelbyville, IL 62565.

Family and friends are invited to light a candle or share a story in Russell’s honor at www.lockartgreenfuneralhome.com.

Albert Richard Beach, 86 of Jacksonville, formerly of Belleville and Murrayville, passed away on Saturday, July 17, 2021 at 9:25 p.m. at the Illinois Veterans Home in Quincy, IL. He was born on July 26, 1934 in Taylorville, IL the son of Albert T. and Ruby J. (Dooley) Beach. He married Rose M. Dyer on May 23, 1959 in Springfield, IL. He was a business office manager at Belleville Memorial Hospital, and a veteran of the United States Navy during the Korean War.

He is survived by his wife: Rose Beach of Jacksonville, IL; Sons: Richard (Karen) Beach of Murrayville, IL, Mark (Denys) Beach of Belleville, IL; Craig (Candy) Beach of Swansea, IL; daughter: Pamela (Danny) Lovelace of Murrayville, IL; Grandchildren: Krista Holford of Jacksonville, IL; Kayla (Ben) Spreen of Chapin, IL; Noah Beach of Jacksonville, IL, Danielle Henn of Chatham, IL; Jayson Craig of Alton, IL; Matthew Craig of Springfield, IL; Meghan Beach of Mississippi; Mark David Beach II of Utah, Madasyn (Nick) Nay of Virginia, Caleb Darden of Belleville, IL; Damian Beach of O’Fallon, IL; great-grandchildren: Lillian Craig, Addelyn Henn, Jack Holford, Sadie Spreen, Adler Spreen, Benjamin Nay and Mark David Beach III; sister: Dolores Hoover of Taylorville, IL; brother: Larry (Mary) Beach of Kincaid, IL; several nieces, nephews and cousins. He was preceded in death by his parents.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, July 21, 2021 from 4:00-7:00 p.m. at Sutton Memorial Home in Taylorville. Funeral Service will be held on Thursday, July 22, 2021 at 11:00 a.m. at Sutton Memorial Home in Taylorville, with Pastor Mark Smith officiating. Burial with military graveside honors to follow at Oak Hill Cemetery in Taylorville.

Memorials may be made to: Illinois Veterans Home 1707 N. 12^th St. Quincy, IL 62301, or The Alzheimer’s Association 2309 W. White Oaks Drive, Suite E. Springfield, IL 62704

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

Please sign our online guest book at suttonmemorialhome.com

Betty Lovekamp, 94 of Taylorville passed away on Saturday, July 17, 2021 at 6:55 a.m. at Odin Health Care Center in Odin, IL. She was born on February 12, 1927 in Arenzville, IL the daughter of Samuel and Lola (Rhyman) Johnson. She married Herbert William Lovekamp on June 18, 1950 in the Salem Lutheran Church in Jacksonville, IL and he preceded her in death on December 19, 2001. Betty was a wonderful cook, seamstress and Illini fan. She graduated from U of I in 1949 with a Bachelor’s degree in home economics and eventually earned her Master’s degree in elementary education. She taught for 27 years at Kincaid Elementary School. Betty was a member of Trinity Lutheran Church in Taylorville, Christian County Homemakers Extension, Christian County Historical Society, Taylorville Memorial Hospital Ladies Auxiliary, Daughters of the American Revolution, and Alum of 4-H House Coopperative at the University of Illinois, and a 4-H Leader.

She is survived by her daughters: Bonnie (Nelson) Heinzmann of Carlyle, IL; Connie (Steve) Plocher of Highland, IL; Elizabeth (Chris) McDonald of Urbana, IL Son: Andy (Suzi) Lovekamp of Taylorville, IL; twelve grandchildren; twenty-seven great-grandchildren; sister: Ramona Carson of Virginia, IL; Brother: Hal Johnson (Anne Jackson); several nieces, nephews and cousins. She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, sister: Cynthia Waggoner; brothers-in-law: Don Waggoner and Vernon Lovekamp; sister-in-law: Lenora Lovekamp.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, July 21, 2021 from 10:00-11:00 a.m. at Trinity Lutheran Church in Taylorville. Funeral Service will be held immediately following the visitation starting at 11:00 a.m. at Trinity Lutheran Church in Taylorville with Reverend Gaylord Spilker officiating. Burial will follow in Oak Hill Cemetery in Taylorville, IL

Memorials may be made to University of Illinois 4-H Foundation or Cooperative Extension Service.

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

Please sign our online guest book at suttonmemorialhome.com

Kurt L. Wempen, 65, of Morrisonville, passed away at 7:59 a.m. on Saturday, July 17, 2021 at Taylorville Skilled Nursing and Rehab.

Kurt was born December 14, 1955 in Hillsboro, the son of Melvin C. and Shirley (Jones) Wempen, Sr. He married Janet Kuehl on January 4, 1991 in Springfield, and they have enjoyed 30 years of marriage.

Kurt graduated from Morrisonville High School with the Class of 1974. He attended college at Lincoln Land Community College and then Illinois State University. Kurt then went on to work for the State of Illinois Department of Revenue as a tax analyst, until his retirement. In his later years, he enjoyed his time working as a door greeter and maintenance man at Wal-Mart.

Kurt was community minded and always ready to help, serving for many years on the Morrisonville Community Ambulance and Morrisonville-Palmer Fire Department. He was also active in coaching his children and grandchildren’s sports teams. Kurt was also a dedicated member of the Masonic Lodge #681 in Morrisonville, and a lifelong member of the Morrisonville United Methodist Church. In his spare time, he enjoyed wood-working.

He was preceded in death by his father; sister, Karen Sue Wayne; and son, Joshua Piercy.

Kurt is survived by his mother, Shirley Wempen of Morrisonville; wife, Janet Wempen of Morrisonville; children, Michael (wife, McKenzie) Wempen and Edina (husband, Brain) Page, both of Morrisonville; grandchildren, Bryce Wempen, Kayla Holliday, Katie Holliday, Jenna Holliday, Kayla Page, and Dallas Page; siblings, Melvin (wife, MaDonna) Wempen, Jr. of Raymond, and Connie (husband, Jim) Young of New Windsor; and several nieces and nephews.

Visitation & Funeral Ceremony: the family will receive friends from 4:00-6:00 p.m. on Tuesday, July 20, 2021 at Perfetti-Assalley Funeral Home, 304 Carlin St, Morrisonville, IL 62546. The funeral ceremony will begin at 6:00 p.m. at the funeral home with Rev. H. Dayle Badman officiating.

Private family burial rites will be accorded at Oak Hill Cemetery in Palmyra.

Memorial contributions may be made to: Morrisonville Community Ambulance Service, PO Box 641, Morrisonville, IL 62546.

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

Janis A. Neal, 73, of Taylorville, passed away at 1:02 p.m. on Monday, July 12, 2021 at HSHS St. John’s Hospital in Springfield.

Janis was born February 15, 1948 in Mattoon. She married Glen Neal on August 30, 1969 in Fairfield, and they have enjoyed over 51 years of marriage.

Janis was a simple woman, who put her family first. Her cooking skills could not be topped, especially her stuffing, noodles, and chocolate chip cookies. Janis had a passion for raising animals, going to exotic sales, as well as swap meets. She and Glen enjoyed dining out with friends at Golden Corral, and taking rides through the country to look for deer. Of all Janis interests and hobbies, being home and spending time with Glen was where she was most content.

She was preceded in death by her father, John Cribelar; and her son, Scott Neal.

Janis is survived by her husband, Glen Neal; daughters, Lisa (husband, Robert) Blades, and Kerry (husband, Paul) Vaughn; son, Bryan (wife, Kim) Neal; and several grandchildren.

Private family ceremonies have been held.

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

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

William Dale Dionne, 69 of Pana, passed away at 9:55 am on Tuesday, July 6, 2021 at Heritage Manor in Pana. He was born on September 1, 1951 in Pana, the son of William George and Helen Marie (Tetley) Dionne. Bill honorably served his country for 20 years with the U.S. Navy. During his time in the service, he served on several ships as well as at the Pentagon for 5 years. His final assignment was on the aircraft carrier, USS Harry S. Truman. He was assigned to the ship during construction as well as it’s christening. Even before his time in the Navy, Bill loved to travel, but he was truly able to see the world while he served. He loved dogs and had several throughout his life. He was a fan of the St. Louis Cardinals and was an avid movie fan. Family was especially important to Bill, especially his nieces and nephews.

He is survived by his son: Shannon Parr of Colorado; siblings: Steve Dionne (Janet), David Dionne (Tina), Linda Crawford (Bob) and Brenda Washburn (Lloyd) all of Pana; and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents and brother, Mike Dionne.

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

John C. Young, 88, of Taylorville, passed away at 2:30 p.m. on Sunday, July 4, 2021 at Taylorville Care Center.

John was born February 24, 1933 in Springfield, the son of John M. and Catherine (Thompson) Young.  He graduated from Cathedral Boys High School in 1951, and went on serve our country in the United States Army during the Korean War.  Upon his honorable discharge, John went on to work for the Local 965 as an operating engineer in the tank division for 45 years.

John married Barbara Ann Tonks on November 28, 1964 at the First Presbyterian Church in Taylorville.  He was a longtime member of the V.F.W. Post #4495 and the American Legion Post #73, and he spent many years serving our community as a member of the burial detail.  John enjoyed playing golf, vegetable gardening, hunting, and fishing.

He was preceded in death by his parents; and his daughter, Cathy.

John is survived by his wife, Barbara A. Young of Taylorville; children, Michelle Young of Forest Park, and John P. Young of Taylorville; grandchildren, Thomas Young and Torrey Langan, both of Taylorville; siblings, Phillip (wife, Sharry) Young of Oceanside, CA, and Margaret (husband, Ron) Verardi of Taylorville; and several nieces and nephews.

Graveside Ceremony: 11:00 a.m. on Friday, July 9, 2021 at Camp Butler National Cemetery, 5063 Camp Butler Road, Springfield, IL 62707 with Rev. Tom Bellagante officiating.  Military honors will be provided by the United States Department of Defense and the Interveterans Burial Detail of Sangamon County.

Memorial contributions may be made to: V.F.W. Post #4495, 515 N. West Ave, Taylorville, IL 62568.

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

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

Garnett Michael Snapp, 67, of Taylorville, passed away at 6:33pm on Thursday, July 1, 2021 at Decatur Memorial Hospital. He was born on September 2, 1953 in Carlisle, Kentucky, the son of Marvin and Mildred (Morris) Snapp.  Garnett worked for many years as an over-the-road truck driver.  He delivered newspapers for the Breeze-Courier and always enjoyed taking on new routes and visiting with his customers that he delivered to.  In his free time, he enjoyed playing cards and BINGO and hanging out with his friends at Hershey Towers.  He had an interest in crafts, especially creating potholders.  He loved animals, especially his faithful companion, Zeke.  

He is survived by his son: Robert Snapp (Tracy) of Taylorville; grandchildren: Skylar Snapp, Makalia Snapp, Michael Snapp (Lainey Sides), Bridgette Snapp (Dante Brown), and Holly Snapp; great grandchildren: Troy Smith Jr., Rhett Smith, Blaze Sides, Izabella Sides, Aralynn Sides, Cruz Snapp, Bennette Snapp, Addalynn Brown, and Camrynn Brown; sister: Gayle Myers of Oconomowoc, Wisconsin; previous wife: Denise Snapp; and several cousins.  He was preceded in death by his parents; and siblings: Kenny Snapp and Patsy Malone.

Mr. Snapp will be cremated, and the 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 Garnett, or condolences to his family, may be shared online at www.mcclurefuneralhome.com.  

Candace Kay Leonard, 66, of Taylorville, passed away at 6:37 a.m. on Thursday, July 1, 2021 at Taylorville Care Center.

Candy was born October 9, 1954 in Decatur, the daughter of Earnest and Wilma (Keele) Grandfield. She worked for many years at St. Vincent’s Memorial Hospital as well as Sangamon Paper Company, but for the majority of her career worked as an in-home healthcare provider. In her retirement she worked for, both, Payless Shoe Source and Kroger. Candy was a talented artist, and she enjoyed freehand drawing, painting, crocheting, and crafting. She was also an avid St. Louis Cardinals fan. Candy was a past-member of Calvary Baptist Church in Taylorville.

She was preceded in death by her parents; step-daughter, Kimberly Daniels; grandson, Jeremy Starwalt; sisters, Carey Grandfield and Carol Swank; and brothers, Larry, Bud, and Arthur Grandfield.

Candy is survived by her companion, Richard S. Daniels of Taylorville; children, Angie (husband, Michael) Donnel of Decatur, Chris (wife, Maggie) Daniels of Chatham, Brittany (husband, Aaron) Samson of Taylorville, Jesse (wife, Amber) Daniels of Taylorville, and Shawn Starwalt of Shelbyville; step-children, Beverly (husband, Max) Chitwood of Taylorville, and Kevin (wife, Tracy) Daniels of Mahomet; grandchildren, Caitlin, Carson, Kendyl, Jackson, Theo, Caleb, Kailey, Erietta, Isabella, Evelyn, Amanda, Ashley, Hannah, Kallie, Chelsea, Courtney, Alanna, Kylie, and Gage; several great grandchildren; siblings, Jack Grandfield of Macon, Aileen Barringer of Macon, and Helen Wilson of Jacksonville; and several nieces and nephews.

Visitation: The family will receive guests from 4:00-7:00 p.m. on Monday, July 5, 2021 at Shafer-Perfetti & Assalley Funeral Home, 202 W. Franklin Street, Taylorville, IL 62568. 

Funeral Ceremony: 10:00 a.m. on Tuesday, July 6, 2021 at the funeral home with Pastor Gerald McPhillips officiating.

Interment will follow the ceremony at Zion Cemetery in Boody.

Memorial contributions may be made to: American Legion Post #73, 110 W. Franklin Street, Taylorville, IL 62568.

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

Michael A. McCauley, Sr., 85, of Taylorville, passed away at 9:35 p.m. on Monday, June 28, 2021 at Heritage Health in Springfield.

Michael was born May 6, 1936 in Oakland, CA, the son of Artie and Sylvia (Forss) McCauley. He graduated from high school in Berkley, CA, and went on to serve our country in the United States Air Force as a medic during the Korean War. Upon his honorable discharge, Michael moved to Chicago where he met the love of his life, Flossie E. Emerson. They were married on July 3, 1964 in Chicago. She preceded him in death on October 24, 2005.

Michael worked as a security guard for his entire career, working as a guard at the Harris and Bloom buildings in Springfield, as well as for Peabody Mine #10. Baseball was his life and passion, and he was an avid Chicago White Sox fan. He learned the game from famous New York Yankee great, Billy Martin. Michael and Billy grew up in the same neighborhood. He also loved jazz and blues music, and he played in many bands in the California Bay area, as well as Chicago. He especially loved Stevie Ray Vaughn and Dave Brubeck. Michael was a member of the Kingdom Hall in Taylorville.

He was also preceded in death by his parents; son, Jason McCauley; sister, Molly Falgout; and brother, Dennis McCauley.

Michael is survived by his children, Michael A. (wife, Traci) McCauley, Jr. of Pleasant Plains, Georgia (husband, Johnny Joe) Marshel of Taylorville, and Matthew (wife, Donna) McCauley of Pana; several grandchildren and great grandchildren; sister, Patricia Tucker of Woodland, CA; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

The family will host a celebration of life at 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, July 10, 2021 at Faith Community Worship Center, 2493 S. Spresser Street, Taylorville, IL 62568.

Private burial with military honors will be held at Fraley Cemetery in Taylorville.

Memorial contributions may be made to: American Cancer Society, 4215 Lindell Blvd, St. Louis, MO 63108, or the American Heart Association, 208 S. LaSalle St. Suite 1500, Chicago, IL 60604.

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

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