Karen (Crawford) Patnode, 65, of Taylorville, passed away unexpectedly on Wednesday, April 27, 2022 at her residence.

Karen was born December 27, 1956 in Taylorville, the daughter of Donna Burns and Kenneth Crawford.  She was raised in Owaneco and graduated from Taylorville High School with the Class of 1975.  Upon graduation, Karen took art classes while living in California.  She was a homemaker for most of her life, but she did work as a floral arranger for Tipp’s Floral in Lincoln for four years.
Karen was vibrant, artistic, and loved music.  She had a love for playing guitar, having taught herself, and she loved attending concerts. Karen was an avid animal lover as well, especially her cats.  She loved to talk, and a quick trip across the street to chat with a neighbor led to a walk around the block to chat with the neighborhood.

She was preceded in death by her mother, Donna (Burns) Heissinger.
Karen is survived by her father, Kenneth Crawford of Owaneco; children, Zackery W. Swiney of Taylorville, and Kristan Patnode of Taylorville; grandchildren, Hannah Patnode, Shyah Miller, Mikaela Swiney, Zackery H. Swiney, and Liam Swiney; brothers, Kerry (wife, Teresa) Crawford of Lincoln, Kent (wife, Cheryl) Crawford of Taylorville, and Keith Ruyle of Taylorville; special sister, Coleen (husband, Steve) Workman of Taylorville; and several nieces and nephews.

Private family ceremonies will be held.

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

The family has entrusted Shafer-Perfetti & Assalley Funeral Home in Taylorville with ceremonies.
Please visit www.assalleyfuneralhomes.com to share memories of Karen or offer condolences to her family.
 

Denis J. Ganey died on April 22, 2022.  He was born on August 31, 1956, in Taylorville, Illinois.  He is survived by his siblings, Tim (Tish) Ganey, Bill (Barbara) Ganey, Michelle Maurer (Tim), Barbara Ganey Schaad (Larry Kupferschmid), and Mary Ann Creech (Ed), 17 nieces and nephews, 19 great nieces and nephews, dear cousins, many friends, and coworkers. He was preceded in death by his parents, Michael and Patricia Ganey, and his sister Kathleen Ganey (Judy Teague).

Denis was a proud graduate of St. Mary School and Taylorville High School in Illinois, where he lived before moving to Georgia, in 1977.  In 1972 his retail career began at Marblestone’s Clothing.  Customer service was his life’s work. He believed all people deserved kindness and respect. Denis was known among his peers for his generosity. His career in retail management included 15 years with Kmart, followed by 25 years with Walmart stores along the Mississippi Gulf Coast.  

Visitation in Taylorville, Illinois, will be held at Sutton Memorial Home, May 7, from 2 - 4 pm. 

In Mississippi, a celebration of life will be held May 15, from 2 – 5 pm at the American Legion Hall, 3824 Old Spanish Trail, Gautier, Mississippi. The family will share memories at 3 pm; food and refreshments will follow. Donations in his honor may be made to St. Mary Catholic School, Taylorville, Illinois, or a charity of your choice.

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

Please sign our online guest book at suttonmemorialhome.com

Patricia Ann Eaton, 77 of Taylorville passed away on Wednesday, April 20, 20202 at 10:49 a.m. at her home in Taylorville, IL. She was born on December 29, 1944 in Birmingham, AL the daughter of Jessie Eugene “Jack” and Martha (Moore) Cummins. She married Duane “Woody” Eaton on June 1, 1962 in Alabama and he preceded her in death on March 12, 2007. 

She is survived by her daughters: Gloria (Joe) Dorr of Pana, IL; Debbie Sargent (Jim Deplanty) of Odin, IL; grandchildren: Brittany Tolley of Tennessee, Kirstan Emery of Odin, IL; Cameron Sargent of Mt. Vernon, IL; Great-Grandchildren: Averi-Rose, Alivia, Loralie, Emmaline, Charlotte, Lilah and Harmoni; Sisters: Jessie and Sandra.  She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, Great-Granddaughter: Isabelle, Brothers: Gene and Joe and Sister: Joanie.  

Graveside services will be held on Tuesday, April 26, 2022 at 11:00 a.m. at Camp Butler National Cemetery in Springfield, IL.

Memorials may be made to the 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

Mary Eleanor Turvey, 95 of Taylorville, passed away at 11:00a.m. on Monday, April 18, 2022 at St. John’s Hospital in Springfield.  She was born on November 10, 1926 in Taylorville, the daughter of Elmo M. and Arminta E. (Durbin) Funderburk.  She married Harold E. Turvey on May 29, 1948 at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Taylorville.  Eleanor grew up as an only child, but she was immediately welcomed into Harold’s family, gaining a large number of brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law.  She graduated from Taylorville High School in 1944 and received her nursing degree from St. John’s School of Nursing in 1947.  She worked for many years as a registered nurse at St. Vincent Memorial Hospital.  Eleanor was a devout Catholic and member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church and the CD of A. She served as a volunteer at the blood bank.  She enjoyed playing cards, reading mystery novels, and watching classic movies.  More than anything, she loved her family, especially her grandchildren.  

She is survived by her sons: Hal Turvey (Jannis) of Taylorville, Mark Turvey (Lori) of Bolingbrook, and John Turvey (Jenny) of Taylorville; grandchildren: Dana Turvey-Olson (Brad), David Turvey (Liz Hernandez), Amy Turvey, Rachel Forrest (T.J.), Hannah Ross (Shane), Nathaniel Turvey, Will Turvey; great-grandchildren: Kaylee Turvey, Shane Ross Jr. , Gabby Ross, Riya Turvey, Piper Olson, Tinsley Olson, Michael Forrest, and Kaydence Forrest; and several cousins, nieces, and nephews.  She was preceded in death by her parents; husband; daughter: Ann Turvey-Wells; granddaughter: Cassandra Wells; and infant great-grandsons: Tucker and Huck Olson.

A funeral Mass for Eleanor will be held at 11:00a.m. on Friday, April 22, 2022 at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Taylorville with Fr. Alan Hunter officiating.  Visitation will be held one hour prior to the Mass in the church on Friday.  Burial will take place at Oak Hill Cemetery.  Memorials may be made to St. Mary’s Church or School.  McClure Funeral Home and Cremation Services in Taylorville is assisting the family with arrangements.  

Mary C. Weed, 91, of Taylorville, Il., passed away on Monday, April 18, 2022 at 10:46 a.m. at her residence. She was born on July 25, 1930 in David, IA the daughter of Harold and Dorothea Clausen. She married Robert Weed in February 1951 in Mason City, IA and he preceded her in death on June 17, 2011.

 After graduating as valedictorian from Riceville High School, IA, Mary then graduated valedictorian of her class from the Hamilton School of Commerce in Mason City, IA.  After that, Mary worked at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, MN for a while, later working for a radiologist in Mason City, IA. She also worked for several different doctors' offices in Taylorville, eventually becoming the administrator of the Christian County Medical Clinic in Taylorville, IL. She was a member of the First United Methodist Church, Christian County Senior Citizens Center, and the Medical Group Management Association. She loved volunteering for Meals on Wheels, she was an assistant Brownie Troop leader and worked with the West School PTA. Mary loved to play bridge and belonged to several different bridge groups.

Mary is survived by her daughters:  Jan Taylor of Chatham, IL and Sandra Conkin of Columbia, SC, Grandchildren: Rachel (Jake) Kaminski of Tulsa, OK, Austin (Maddie) Conkin of Chicago, IL; Kyle Taylor of Springfield, IL; Kollin (Bre) Taylor of Springfield, IL, Great-Granddaughter: Madelyn Kaminski, several nieces, nephews and cousins. She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, four brothers and three sisters.

Mary will be cremated and services will be held at a later date.

Memorials may be made to the First United Methodist Church 200 S. Walnut, Taylorville, IL 62568 or Christian County Senior Citizens Center 701 W. Adams, Taylorville, IL 62568.

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

Please sign our online guest book at suttonmemorialhome.com.

Susan Marjorie Christopher, 58 of Taylorville passed away on Thursday, April 14, 2022 at 11:15 a.m. at Sunrise Skilled Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in Virden, IL. She was born on October 9, 1963 in Decatur, IL the daughter of William and Eileen (Bailey) Briggs. She married Donald Christopher in January of 1994 in Taylorville, IL. She worked as a florist, she was a special needs aid and she was a musician. Susan loved woodworking with her mother as a young girl.

She is survived by her Husband: Donald Christopher of Taylorville, IL; Daughters: Nicole Manley of Kincaid, IL; Treva Christopher of Taylorville, IL; Sons: Nathan Manley of Taylorville, IL; Quinten Christopher of Taylorville, IL; Grandchildren: Leila Calvert, Lillian Manley; Sisters: Anna (Dennis) Jeffrey of Taylorville, IL; Sally (John) Riley of Macon, IL; Brothers: Gary (Rita) Briggs of Decatur, IL; several nieces, nephews and cousins. She was preceded in death by her parents, Son Clarence Christopher in infancy and her brother: William Briggs Jr.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, April 20, 2022 from 2:00-3:00 p.m. at Sutton Memorial Home in Taylorville. Funeral service will be held immediately following the visitation starting at 3:00 p.m. at Sutton Memorial Home in Taylorville with Adam Jeffrey officiating. Burial will be held in Edinburg Cemetery in Edinburg, IL.

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

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

Charles Edward DeClerck, 93, of Taylorville passed away on Saturday, April 16, 2022 at 6:25 p.m. at his home in Taylorville, IL. He was born on February 10, 1929 in Assumption, IL the son of John and Mary (Adams) DeClerck. He married Dolores I. Rentfrow on November 24, 1949 in St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Taylorville, IL and she preceded him in death on September 23, 2006. He was a member of Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Stonington, IL and he served as a Christian County Board member for many years as well as several other civic boards. 

He is survived by a Daughter: Janet DeClerck of Taylorville, IL, Son: Tom (Tracy) DeClerck of Stonington, IL, Grandchildren: Trent (Wendy) DeClerck of Stonington, IL; Travis (LE) DeClerck, Of Frisco, CO, Treena (Kevin) Brown of Stonington, IL; Charlee Kocurek of Taylorville, IL; Kyle (Jessica) Kocurek of Edinburg, IL, Great-Grandchildren: Drew (Dallas) DeClerck, Lance DeClerck, Lacey DeClerck, Avery DeClerck, Olin DeClerck, Braxton Dickey and Jayce Kocurek, Sisters: Mary Margaret Morrison of Pueblo, CO; Nora Peters of Taylorville, IL; Fran (Fred) McKinnon of Taylorville, IL. Sisters-in-law: Ida DeClerck of Stonington, IL and Evelyn Eileen Jackson of Taylorville, IL, and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded by: parents, wife, grandson: Stephen Kocurek Jr., Brothers: Bernard, Jack, Connie and Wayne, Sisters: Cecelia Sutton and Agnes Meyer. 

Visitation will be held on Thursday, April 21, 2022 from 3:00-7:00 p.m. at Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Stonington. Funeral Mass will be held on Friday, April 22, 2022 at 12:00 p.m. at Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Stonington, IL with Father Frederick Chima Mbiere officiating. Burial will be in Ponting Cemetery in Stonington, IL.

Memorials may be made to the Shriners Hospital for Children 4400 Clayton Ave., St. Louis, MO 63110 or Taylorville FFA 815 W. Springfield Rd., Taylorville, IL 62568

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

Please sign our online guest book at suttonmemorialhome.com
 

Norma F. Younker, 89, of Edinburg, Il., passed away on Thursday, April 14, 2022 at 9:45 a.m. at her residence. She was born on August 26, 1932 the daughter of Earl and Fern Elder. She married Wayne Earl Younker on March 28, 1953 at the Berea Church in Mt. Auburn. She was a loving wife, mom, grandma and great grandma.
Norma is survived by her Sons: Douglas (Betty) Younker of Edinburg, IL and Phil (Teri) Younker of Taylorville; Daughters Nancy (Larry) Keller of Tilden and Susan (Allen) Hutcheson of Williamsville; Grandchildren, Amy, Elizabeth, Joe, Teresa, Mason, Alex, Kelsey, Rebecca, Robert and Billy; Great Grandchildren: Adrianna and Alex; Son-in-law: Carmen Scavo of Chicago; Sisters: Margaret Brockelsby, Marjorie Morman and Barbara Mendenhall; several Nieces and Nephews. She was preceded by her husband, parents, daughter: Sheryl Younker Scavo, Grandson: Nicholas Younker; Siblings: Kenneth and John Elder and Maxine Van DerVoort. 
Visitation will be on Tuesday, April 19, 2022 from 9:00-10:00 a.m. at Sutton Memorial Home in Taylorville, IL. Memorial services will be held at 10:00 a.m. at Sutton Memorial Home in Taylorville, IL with inurnment to follow at Bethel Cemetery in Sharpsburg, IL. The family is forever grateful to Theresa.
Memorials may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association, Illinois Chapter, 2309 W. White Oaks Dr. 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

Mark Alan Dawson, 67, of Taylorville, passed away on Monday, April 11, 2022 in his home.

He was born on January 31, 1955 in Taylorville, the son of Neal Benton and Edna Irene (Brown) Dawson.

He graduated from Taylorville High School and went on to earn his degree from Millikin University. He was a talented musician throughout his life.  Mark taught and played professionally throughout his career.

He is survived by his son: Michael James Dawson of Alton; brother: David Dwaine Dawson (Lynn) of Taylorville; and numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins.  He was preceded in death by his parents.  

Mark will be cremated and there will be a celebration of life held at a later date.  Donations in his memory may be made to the Taylorville School District Music Department.

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

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

Jonathon Nicholas Daniel, 36 of Lynwood, CA passed away on Tuesday, February 11, 2022 at St. Frances Hospital in Linwood, CA. He was born on January 10, 1986 in Orange, CA the son of Susan Bowman-Daniel.

He is survived by his Children: Andrew, Aubree and Levi Daniel; Siblings: Sonya Daniel, Joseph Daniel, Jason Daniel, Sarah Parini, Shaina Daniel, Many Nieces, Nephews, Cousins and other family and friends who miss him dearly.

Private Family graveside services will be held at Oak Hill Cemetery in Springfield at a later date. There will be a celebration of life/benefit on April 30, 2022 at the Stadium bar and grill starting at 2:00 p.m. in Springfield, IL where all are invited to join us in remembering our beloved brother.

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

Please sign our online guest book at suttonmemorialhome.com

Donald Eugene Wiley, 77 of Taylorville passed away on Tuesday, April 12, 2022 at 10:33 a.m. at Taylorville Care Center in Taylorville, IL. He was born on May 22, 1944 in Taylorville, IL the son of Francis Lorraine and Leota Darline (Fritsgerald) Wiley. But he was raised by his grandparents Lee and Eva Fritzgerald. He married Linda Mitchell, they later divorced, He then married Marilyn Fisher on September 15, 1973 and she preceded him in death on January 12, 2003. He then married Patricia Snow in 2006 in Taylorville, IL. He worked at various laborer jobs throughout his life before becoming disabled.

He is survived by his Spouse: Patty Wiley of Taylorville, IL; Daughter: Tina (John) Fleming of Kincaid, IL; Son: Donald Eugene Wiley Jr of Kincaid, IL; Grandchildren: Ali (Dale) Garner of Taylorville, IL, Donald (Tiffany) Ryan of Nokomis, IL; Kristen Ryan of Decatur, IL; Curtis (Sydney) Ryan of Pana, IL; Noah Ellsworth of Kincaid, IL; nine Great-Grandchildren; Sisters: Frieda Jones of Decatur, IL; Marcia Upton of Tovey, IL; Brothers: Bobby Henne of Springfield, IL; Morris Upton of Taylorville, IL; several nieces, nephews and cousins. He is preceded in death by his parents, grandparents, daughter: Susan Annette Wiley; Son Donald Eugene Wiley II, Sister: Frieda (Fritzgerald, Lowe, Battles), Brother: Gary Upton, Niece Michelle Sharp and Vickie Truax.

Don 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

Helen Louise Hoehn, 86 of Fillmore passed away on Monday, April 4, 2022 at 3:09 p.m. at St. John’s Hospital in Springfield, IL. She was born on September 16, 1935 in Nokomis, IL the daughter of Tom and Louise (Macintosh) Cassidy. She married Everett John Hoehn on November 2, 1957 in the St. Louis Catholic Church in Nokomis, IL. She worked as a telephone operator and later she helped around the family farm.

She is survived by her Husband: Everett Hoehn of Fillmore, IL; Daughters: Cheryl Ann Spinner of Hillsboro, IL and Linda Marie Schreiber of Marryville, IL; Grandchildren: Matthew Spinner of Hillsboro, IL; Breanna Lyn Spinner of Hillsboro, IL; Kielee Schreiber of Maryville, IL; Great-Grandchildren: Zoey Spinner, Layla Spinner, Haven Knight; Brother: Bill Cassidy of Coalton, IL; Sisters: Barbara Kolkhorst of Springfield, IL; Rose Wilson of Ramsey, IL; Several Nieces, Nephews and Cousins. She was preceded in death by her Parents.

Private family services will be held at a later date and she will be buried in Calvary 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 online guest book at suttonmemorialhome.com

In Loving Memory:

Richard W. Powell, 69, died March 23, 2022 at his home in Westlake Village, CA.

Richard, son of William and Shirley Powell, grew up in the small town of Taylorville, IL. He was well known in the neighborhood and was the very reliable newspaper boy.

Richard was an accomplished academic and practitioner. His latest position held since 1996 was faculty member at the Graziado Business School accounting division at Pepperdine University.

Richard enjoyed playing a variety of sports such as basketball and tennis. He loved his dog Bucky. The two of them were seen regularly walking their neighborhood together.

He is survived by his oldest brother Jim (Liz) Powell, oldest sister Susan McDonald, and youngest sister Kelly (Tom) Pruim. 

He was preceded in death by his parents, brother Terry Powell, and sister Jerri Powell.

Diane Elizabeth Reid, 59 of Taylorville, IL passed away on Sunday, April 3, 2022 at 8:47 p.m. at her home in Taylorville, IL. She was born on December 19, 1962 in Taylorville, IL, the daughter of Gary and Donna (Flahart) Brown. She married Jeff Reid on October 9, 1987 in Kentucky. Diane was a homemaker who enjoyed spending time with family and friends.

She is survived by her Husband: Jeff Reid of Taylorville, IL, Daughter: Jessica (Thomas) Avery of Kincaid, IL, Step-Daughter: Kristi Reid of Kincaid, IL, Grandchildren: Ashton Hagan, Madison Hagan, Landon Reid, Braelyn Avery and Leah Emerson, father: Gary Brown of Taylorville, IL, brothers: Doug Brown of Taylorville and Gary Brown of Taylorville, IL and Several Nieces, Nephews and Cousins. She was preceded in death by her mother, and son: Matthew Reid.

Diane will be cremated and a Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.

Memorials may be made to VisionWay Christian School 1124 N. Webster, Taylorville, IL 62568

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

Please sign our online guest book at suttonmemorialhome.com

Otis Eugene Haerr, 71 of Taylorville, passed away in his home at 5:58p.m. on Friday, April 1, 2022 surrounded by his family, following a short battle with cancer. He was born on December 16, 1950 in Streator, the son of Harold Eugene and Martha Jane (Lagle) Haerr. Otis married Marlis E. Haselbeck on November 18, 1969 in Nuremberg, Germany. He was a veteran of the U.S. Army. Otis was the owner and operator of Duke’s Office Supply in Taylorville for over 40 years. In his free time he enjoyed woodworking, spending time outside, especially while fishing, and reading. He was especially proud to be a member of Mensa. Above all he enjoyed spending time with his family and will be dearly missed by all who knew him.

He is survived by his wife: Marlis Haerr of Taylorville; sons: Tom Haerr, wife Mel, and their children Ben and Mike of O’Fallon and Brian Haerr, wife Amy, and their children: Taylor, Morgan, and Cameron; and sister: Sylvia Geiling of Texas. He was preceded in death by his parents.

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

Frank H. Paulek, 75 of Stonington, passed away at 11:24p.m. on Friday, April 1, 2022 at Carriage Crossing Senior Living in Taylorville.  He was born on July 27, 1946 in Springfield, the son of Victor and Marjorie (Kilver) Paulek.  He married Rita A. Duni on October 29, 1972 in Stonington.  

Frank was a member of Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Stonington and worked for many years as a copy machine service technician.  Frank proudly supported his community by serving on the Stonington Village Board for 15 years and as mayor for 22 years.  He enjoyed spending time outside, golfing, fishing, and camping.  Most of all he loved his family, especially his grandchildren.  

He is survived by his wife: Rita Paulek of Stonington; children: Andrea Coffman (Brad) of Taylorville and Craig Paulek (Katie) of Stonington; grandchildren: Cole Paulek, Waylon Paulek, Levi Paulek, and James Coffman; brothers: Bill Paulek (Mary Beth) of Chatham and John Paulek (Sandy) of Springfield; and several nieces and nephews.  He was preceded in death by his parents and sister: Judy Turner.

Frank will be cremated, and a memorial service will take place at noon on Thursday, April 7, 2022 at McClure Funeral Home in Taylorville with Sr. Rose McKeown officiating.  Visitation will be held from 10:00a.m. until the time of the service on Thursday.  Inurnment will be in Old Stonington Cemetery.  Memorials may be made to the Taylorville F.F.A. or the Stonington Library.  McClure Funeral Home and Cremation Services in Taylorville is assisting the family with arrangements.  Memories of Frank, or condolences to his family, may be shared online at www.mcclurefuneralhome.com.  

Eugene “Sonny” Bertucci, 94 of Taylorville, passed away at 7:00a.m. on Thursday, March 31, 2022 at Taylorville Care Center.  He was born on October 16, 1927 in Taylorville, the son of Atillio and Clara Bertucci.  Following his father’s death at a young age, Clara married Ben Mooney and together they raised a large family.  He married LaVerne Woodward on August 28, 1949 in the Taylorville First United Methodist Church, she preceded him in death on May 20, 2020.  Sonny proudly served his country in the U.S. Army, serving during both WWII and Korea.  He was an active member of the First United Methodist Church.  Sonny began working at the age of 14 at the Red & White grocery store on the square in Taylorville.

Following his time in the service, he continued his work as a butcher at Frank’s Food Fair.  His work in the grocery business spanned many decades as the manager of Frank’s Food Fair and IGA, County Market, and finally Kroger.  He was also active with the United Way, Chamber of Commerce, and organized the city’s Bicentennial Celebration. Sonny and LaVerne loved to dance throughout the years and could clear the dance floor while entertaining the crowd. Together they enjoyed traveling to scenic and historic locations and attended countless fairs and festivals selling musical tins that they made through their business named Mom’s Follys.  He enjoyed calling Bingo games, starting at the store, and continuing to the Senior Citizen’s Center.  Sonny became known as Taylorville’s official birthday singer.

He loved to serenade customers by singing them “Happy Birthday” over the store’s intercom, even if it wasn’t truly their birthday.  This tradition continued even to his time in the nursing home.  Sonny made a tremendous impact on his family, friends, coworkers and community and he will be dearly missed by all who knew him.

He is survived by his son: Tom Bertucci (Sandy) of Nauvoo; daughter: Angela Bertucci of Peoria; grandchildren: Andrianna Bertucci (Donna), Joseph Bertucci (Kimberly), and Natalie Jamieson (Michael); great grandchildren: Jaden, Olivia, and Ashlyn Hellman, Caroline Bertucci, and Quinn Jamieson; sister: Ramona Frisina; and 30 nephews and nieces.  He was preceded in death by his parents; wife; and siblings: Camilla Blakeman, Enrico Bertucci, Mafalda Levernier, Yolanda Collebrusco, John Mooney, David Mooney, and Ronnie Mooney.

Sonny will be cremated, and a family memorial service will be held at 11:00a.m. on Friday, April 8, 2022 at McClure Funeral Home with Rev. Becky Lembke officiating. Friends are invited to join the family for a graveside committal service with Veteran’s Honors, at 11:30 on Friday at Oak Hill Cemetery. Following the graveside service, friends and family are welcome to join at the Moose Lodge, 720 McAdam Dr., Taylorville, for a celebration of life luncheon.

Memorials may be made to the Taylorville First United Methodist Church or VFW Post #4495. McClure Funeral Home and Cremation Services in Taylorville is assisting the family with arrangements.

James Robert Long, 73 of Springfield, formerly of Mt. Auburn, passed away on Thursday, March 31, 2022 in his home.  He was born on October 12, 1948 in Decatur, the son of Donald F. and Mary (McMillan) Long.  He married Pamela Sue Dozier on June 24, 1978 in Mt. Zion.  Jim graduated from the University of Illinois in 1971 with a Bachelor of Agriculture Mechanics degree.  While at the U of I he took part in the Army ROTC program and upon graduation was commissioned as a 2nd Lieutenant.

Jim spent time at Ft. Benning, Georgia before returning to Illinois and joining the Army Reserve at the 687th Supply and Service Battalion in Decatur where he served many years.  He worked at several jobs throughout the years including Fiatallis, Baldwin Associates, and Industrial Chemical as the plant manager.  Jim had a long and distinguished career with the Army Reserves, culminating with retiring from the 303rd Ordinance Group in Springfield as Colonel.  During his time in the reserves, he was called upon to travel around the world to assist with training activities.  He also worked in a civilian role as the Supervisory Staff Administrator for the 206th Regional Support Group at the Brigade Headquarters in Springfield.  As passionate as Jim was about his service to our country, he was equally as passionate about his family and friends and enjoying life.  He and Pam were the owners of Long’s Tavern in Mt. Auburn for many years.  Cooking was another love of Jim’s, especially grilling.  

He was always eager to feed friends and family and loved to explore new grocery stores looking for the next great spice blend to try.  He enjoyed woodworking and was an avid fan of University of Illinois Football and Basketball.  He will be forever remembered by his sense of humor both at work and at home and his love of family.  

He is survived by his wife: Pam Long of Springfield; daughter: Laura Dellinger (Josh) of Seymour, Tennessee; granddaughter: Cheyenne Carey of Seymour, Tennessee; brothers-in-law: Mike (Liz) Dozier of Bastrop, Texas and John (Tammy) Dozier of Springfield; nieces and nephews: Maridon Patton, Ryan Patton (Meghan), Angela Borgman (Barry), Candace Dozier, Adam Dozier, Amy Dozier, Nicole Taylor, Stephanie Berry, Jack Berry, Kelly Pimentel, Karen Ferry, Eric Kluchko, Deanna Lambert, and Kevin Dozier and several cousins.  He was preceded in death by his parents; sister: Patricia Patton (Brad); uncle: John Shaw McMillan; nephew: Nicholas Dozier; infant nephew: Andrew Patton; brother-in-law: Lee Dozier; and sister-in-law: Judy (Tom) Kluchko.  

A funeral service for Jim will take place at 11:00a.m. on Wednesday, April 6, 2022 at McClure Funeral Home in Taylorville with Pastor Gerald McPhillips officiating.  Burial, with military rites, will follow at the Mt. Auburn Cemetery.  Visitation will he held from 5:00p.m. until 7:00p.m. on Tuesday in the funeral home.  Memorials may be made to the Wounded Warrior Project or Shriners Children’s Hospital. McClure Funeral Home and Cremation Services in Taylorville is assisting the family with arrangements.  Memories of Jim, or condolences to his family, may be shared online at www.mcclurefunearlhome.com.