Robert Lee Harley Bandy, 91, of Taylorville, Illinois, passed away at 12:55 a.m. on Sunday, December 25, 2022, at HSHS St. John’s Hospital in Springfield.

Bob was born November 9, 1931, in Edinburg, Illinois, the son of William T. and Nettie Anna (Wolf) Bandy. He graduated from Edinburg High School in 1949 and was drafted into the United States Army in 1952 while he was working for Clarence Young’s Turkey Farm in Stonington,  Illinois.  Bob proudly served our country during the Korean War as a radio operator in the 40^th Infantry Division of the 143^rd  Field Artillery Battalion as a Private and was honorably discharged November 28, 1953 following the end of the war.  On October 10, 1954, Bob and  Herbertta Ann Edwards were married at the Blue Mound Christian Church, Blue Mound, Illinois.   They have enjoyed over 68 years of marriage, residing in Illinois, Florida and Indiana.

Bob worked for Firestone in Decatur, Illinois for many years. In 1970 he moved his family to Florida where he was employed as a carpenter to build storage cabinets for Culligan dialysis equipment. From there, the family relocated to Indiana in 1973 where Bob continued his career as a carpenter, working for Brown County Construction in Nashville, Indiana. The family then moved back to Taylorville in 1975, and Bob started “Bob Bandy & Sons Construction” where he provided general contracting services to central Illinois residents and businesses for many years.  Bob continued with his carpentry even after retirement when he began designing and building custom wood furniture.  He sold his creations at craft fairs and markets in Illinois and Indiana where he always enjoyed talking with others about furniture, woodworking, and his family.

Bob was a longtime member of the Taylorville Christian Church, V.F.W. Post #4495, AMVETS Post 29, and the Christian County Farm Bureau.  He loved to talk politics and never missed listening to Paul Harvey.  Bob had a green thumb, enjoying both flower and vegetable gardening. He enjoyed the outdoors and he and his family of 7 camped in numerous campgrounds in Illinois, Indiana, Missouri, Kentucky, Tennessee, Georgia and Florida. One of his proudest moments was being able to participate in the Land of Lincoln Honor Flight of July 2017, accompanied on the flight by his oldest son Dave. Of all Bob’s talents and interests, spending time with his family brought him the greatest joy.

He was preceded in death by his parents; infant son Dale Eugene Bandy; sisters Elizabeth Hagan, Marcella Moomey, and Grace Hadden, and brothers Maurice, George, Bill, Russell, Harold, Eugene, and Ronald Bandy.

Bob is survived by his wife, Herbertta Ann Bandy of Taylorville; children, Dave Bandy of Hardwood, MI, Steve (Kelley) Bandy of Athens, Christine (Roland) Pruett of Noblesville, IN, Alicia (Jeff) Mudd of Middletown, MO, and Jacque (Vic) Garman of Taylorville; grandchildren Stacie (Joe) Madison, Ashton (Jennifer) Bandy, Emil (Jesica) Bandy, Grace (Seth) Rice, Naomi Bandy, Ruth Bandy, Jessica (Alex) Stophel, Natalie (Andrew) Stewart, Olivia Pruett, Katy (Mark) Austin, Elizabeth (Stan) Kotus, Rachel (Gary) Stover, James Mudd, Jack Mudd, and Rebecca Garman; great-grandchildren Tristen, Tyler, Landen, Ethan, Alister, Charlotte, Liam, Addison, Talia, Molleigh, Hattie, Noah, Hope, Will, Annabelle, Grant, Ellen Marie, Margaret, Levi, Amelia, Ruby, Violet, George, Julianna, Scarlett, Adelyn and Hazel; great-great-grandson Loxley; brother, Darrell Bandy of Moweaqua; and several nieces and nephews.

Visitation & Funeral Ceremony: The family will receive guests from 9:00-11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, January 3, 2023, at Taylorville Christian Church, 1124 N. Webster Street, Taylorville, IL 62568.  The funeral ceremony will follow the visitation at 11:00 a.m. at the church with Pastor Richard Wamsley officiating.

Memorial Contributions may be made to: V.F.W. Post #4495, 515 N. West Ave, Taylorville, IL 62568, or Christian County Senior Citizens, 701 W. Adams Street, 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 Bob, or to offer condolences to his family.

It is with great sadness that the family of Rodger “Dutch” Lefever, 86, of Edinburg announce his passing on December 23, 2022. 

Rodger will be lovingly remembered by his wife of 68 years, Donna (Orr); children, Jeffrey (Jackie), Rodney (Pamela); grandchildren, Justin, Jacob (Cassie), Jordan (Joey) Cavatorta, Peyten; step-grandchildren:, Jason (Tara); great grandchildren, Alex, Walker, William, Wyatt, Weston, Jolie; step great grandchildren, Jocelynn, Ava, Rayona; great-great grandchild, Elizabeth; niece, Vicki (Joe) Yonker; great nieces, Jennifer Yonker, Debbie Wingo; great nephew, Kevin Wingo, and numerous other family members and friends.

Rodger loved farming in the Edinburg and Barry, Illinois area for 52 years.  His fondest memories were of his children, grandchildren, and anyone else that would stop by during harvest.  He was lovingly known as “Gampy” to family members and others that he met.  He was known for Polka dancing with his wife and his penchant for everything John Deere. 

Rodger was predeceased by his parents, Harold and Alice (Reed) Lefever, brother and sister-in-law, Laverne (Blanche) Lefever, and niece, Sheila (Curtis) Wingo.

At Rodger’s request, no services will be held.  McClure Funeral Home and Cremation Services in Taylorville is assisting the family with arrangements.  

Earl Arthur Walters, 83 of Taylorville left this world peacefully on Saturday, December 24, 2022 at 11:25 p.m. at Taylorville Care Center in Taylorville, IL. He was born on September 14, 1939 in Taylorville, IL the son of Earl and Ruby Fern (Smith) Walters. He married Ilene Rose Fisher on June 19, 1960 in Carlinville, IL and she preceded him in death on May 9, 2022. Earl had a long career with Prudential Insurance. After retirement, he the served Taylorville in many ways over the years including councilman and was on many boards and committees in which he was passionate about. He was a baseball umpire and basketball referee for many years. Bob Ridings Ford was a place he enjoyed being part of. Earl Loved the lake and boating. Spending time there with his kids and grandkids and watching everyone enjoy the pool made him happy. Earl made an impression on many people’s lives.   

He is survived by his daughter: Susan (Randy) Kemplin of LeRoy, IL; son: Steve (Rhonda) Walters of Taylorville, IL; grandchildren: Mick Schaub, Blake (Kate) Walters, Morgan Schuab, Ashlee Kemplin and Crystal Kemplin; Brother: David (Carol) Walters of Florida. He was preceded in death by his parents and his wife. 

Visitation will be held on Thursday, December 29, 2022 from 9:00-12:00 Noon at Sutton Memorial Home in Taylorville. Funeral service will be held immediately following the visitation starting at 12:00 Noon at Sutton Memorial Home in Taylorville. Burial will be in Oak Hill Cemetery in Taylorville, IL.

Memorials may be made to Downtown Taylorville C/O: Sutton Memorial Home 327 N. Clay St. Taylorville, IL 62568.

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

Please sign our online guest book at suttonmemorialhome.com

Joan McCormick, 90 of Taylorville passed away on Wednesday, December 21, 2022 at Taylorville Care Center in Taylorville, IL. She was born on January 16, 1932 in Taylorville, IL, the daughter of Samuel Lawrence Ellinger and Etta Freese. Joan married Bob McCormick on October 28, 1997 and he preceded her in death on December 3, 2011.

Joan worked as an underwriter for Liberty Mutual, and was an active member of The Taylorville Eagles, The Taylorville Moose Lodge #1516, and The First United Methodist Church in Taylorville. She loved to play Bingo and card games with her friends in her bunco group and canasta group and also enjoyed spending time working in her yard. Her dog, Lilly, meant the world to her.

She is survived by her sister: Peggy (Lester) Fabicheski and eleven nieces and nephews. She is preceded in death by her parents, husband, her infant daughter: Michelle Diane Traughber; sister: Norma Allison; brothers: Lawrence Ellinger; Robert Ellinger; and Donald Ellinger. 

Visitation will be held on Friday, December 30, 2022 from 10:00-11:00 A.M. at Sutton Memorial Home in Taylorville, IL. Funeral services will be held immediately after at 11:00 A.M. Interment will be in Oak Hill Cemetery.

Memorials in her honor may be made to The Christian County Animal Control.

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

Please sign our online guest book at suttonmemorialhome.com

Kathleen Ann Menichetti-Sexton, 74, of Riverton, passed away on Saturday, December 17, 2022 at St. John’s Hospital in Springfield, IL. She was born on August 18, 1948 in Springfield, IL, the daughter of Oliver Menichetti and Bertha Pattarozzi. Kathleen married Danny Sexton on September 6, 1969 in Taylorville, IL.

Kathy was the definition of family and the epitome of a matriarch. She loved her husband, children and grandchildren with her entire soul. Kathy never met a stranger, was never judgemental and would help anyone that crossed her path. Her love for others influenced her to become a teacher, being one that found joy in others success, fulfillment in their triumphs and was a constant light to be found for anyone marching through life's journey. 

Kathy had a passion for cooking and if you ever visited, she made sure you never left hungry or left with an empty heart. Kathy was a member of St. James Catholic Church in Riverton, Illinois, attending Church weekly and was devote in her faith. She enjoyed working out and volunteering in her community at the Riverton knights of Columbus, making lasting memories and friendships throughout her years there.Kathy treated everyone with love and respect. Her kindness and class were unmatched and you could see that in the way she showered her husband, family and friends with selfless love and support. Not only was she a wife and mother, she was a bestfriend.  She was beautiful inside and out and the world was truly a better place with Kathy in it.

 Kathleen is survived by her husband: Danny Sexton of Riverton, IL; sons: Ryan (Amy) Sexton of Riverton, IL; Todd (Sarah) Sexton of Buffalo, IL; daughter: Lori (George) Benedict of Petersburg, IL; grandchildren: Lucas Sexton of Riverton, IL; Olivia, Bryce, and Alexa Benedict of Petersburg, IL. She is preceded in death by her parents.

A visitation will be held on Tuesday, December 27, 2022 from 4:00-7:00 P.M. at Sutton Memorial Home in Taylorville, IL. Funeral services will be held the following day at 11:00 A.M. at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Taylorville with Father Raphael DeMoreno officiating. Interment will immediately follow at Oak Hill Cemetery.

Memorials in her honor may be made to The Springfield Animal Protective League or to St. Jude Children’s Hospital.

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

Tangee Sue Friedrich, 59 of Taylorville, passed away at 9:13p.m. on Sunday, December 18, 2022 at Springfield Memorial Hospital.  She was born on May 28, 1963 in Springfield, the daughter of James William and Sharon (Franklin) Turner.  She married Randy Friedrich on February 12, 2000 in Edinburg.  Tangee received a degree in cosmetology and worked as a CNA at a local nursing home.  She was an active member of the Order of Eastern Star, Haslemere Chapter 221 in Taylorville as well as Arcana Chapter 493 in Pana. 

She is survived by husband: Randy Friedrich of Taylorville; children: Caleb Alsbury (Heather) of Peoria, Talon Noreuil (Vic) of Taylorville, and Travis Alsbury (Monica) of Buffalo; mother: Sharon Turner of Taylorville; granddaughter: Karissa Alsbury of Taylorville; sister: Cathy Turner of Taylorville; and nephews: Jesse Turner and Ashton Turner.  She was preceded in death by her father; brother: James Turner; infant granddaughter: Taylor Alsbury; and grandparents: Jess and Grace Franklin and Irma and Leroy Turner. 

A funeral service for Tangee will be held at 11:00a.m. on Tuesday, December 27, 2022 at McClure Funeral Home in Taylorville with Jennifer Stillwell officiating.  Visitation will take place one hour prior to the funeral on Tuesday.  Burial will be in the Glen Haven Memorial Gardens in Taylorville.  Memorials may be made to the St. Louis Shriner’s Hospital for Children. McClure Funeral Home and Cremation Services in Taylorville is assisting the family with arrangements.  Memories of Tangee, or condolences to her family, may be shared online at www.mcclurefuneralhome.com.

Condolences and memories may be shared with the family in care of Brintlinger and Earl Funeral Homes at www.brintlingerandearl.com.

Gary Lee Ronchetto, 71, of Morrisonville, passed away at 1:14 a.m. on Sunday, December 18, 2022, at Blessing Hospital in Quincy.

Gary was born May 2, 1951, in Taylorville, the son of Domenick and Edith L. (Berta) Ronchetto.  He graduated from Morrisonville High School with the Class of 1969.  Gary married Mary Osterholt at the Trinity Lutheran Church in Harvel in 1972, and they have enjoyed over 50 years of marriage.

For many years, Gary proudly served our country in the National Guard.  He was employed by Firestone for 32 years, and after his retirement worked for 3 years as a postal carrier. Gary enjoyed fishing, playing softball, and canoeing.  Above all, he enjoyed the time he spent with family and friends.

He was preceded in death by his father; and brother, Michael Ronchetto.

Gary is survived by his mother, Edith Ronchetto of Taylorville; wife, Mary Ronchetto of Morrisonville; daughters, Heidi (husband, Jon) Spyridakis of Shelby TWP, MI, and Misty Ronchetto of Morrisonville; and grandchildren, Andreas, Anastasia, and Antonio Spyridakis.

Visitation & Funeral Ceremony:  The family will receive guests from 10:00-12:00 p.m. on Friday, December 23, 2022, at Perfetti-Assalley Funeral Home, 304 Carlin Street, Morrisonville, IL 62546.  The funeral ceremony will follow at 12:00 p.m. with Sr. Rose McKeown officiating.

A private burial will be held at Morrisonville Cemetery.

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

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

Phyllis June Blankenship-Marshall, 85 of Taylorville, passed away at 4:47p.m. on Tuesday, December 13, 2022 at St. John’s Hospital in Springfield.  She was born on October 22, 1937 in Bear Creek Township, Fayette County, Illinois, the daughter of Wayne Elvis and Grace Opal (Waddelow) Blankenship.  Phyllis loved reminiscing about the good ole days growing up on the family farm with her siblings.  She was a giving individual, whether it was a dish she enjoyed cooking, something she baked, or a start from one of her many plants she grew, she loved sharing what she had with others.  She had an onery streak, and was always up for an adventure.  She loved spending time outdoors and loved the feel of the wind in her face while enjoying boat rides or time on a motorcycle.  Phyllis would never pass up a margarita and looked forward to many “Bloody Mary Sundays”. She loved dancing and music, especially Alan Jackson.  She loved spending time with her family and friends, especially when it involved a cookout or sitting around a campfire.  Phyllis lived a full life that centered around her family.  She was incredibly proud of her children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren, by whom she will be forever missed.

She is survived by her children: Dana Oldham (Doug) of Taylorville and Alan Wayne Hathaway (Jody) of Quincy: son-in-law: Trevis Parker of Taylorville;  grandchildren: Elizabeth Oldham, Keri Oldham, Michael Hathaway, Jordyn Hathaway, Bradley Bedinger (Alycia), Lyndsey Ringler (Mitch), Stefan Bedinger (Baylee Reed), Mikhail Findlay, Paige Carl, and Chandler Grave (Devin); 21 great grandchildren; siblings: Linda Perkins (Lawrence) of Warsaw, Indiana and Cecil Blankenship (Etha) of Hennepin; sister-in-law: Ramona Blankenship of St. Elmo; several nieces and nephews; beloved Yorkie, Buddy Jo; and longtime caregiver, Nikki.  She was preceded in death by her parents; daughters: Lori Ann Bedinger (Tim) and Jill Parker; sister: Marlene Street; brother: Marion Blankenship; and infant siblings: Betty and Eugene.

Phyllis will be cremated and a memorial service will be held at a later date.  McClure Funeral Home and Cremation Services in Taylorville is assisting the family with arrangements.  

William Charles (Bill) Rahar, Jr., 51, of Taylorville, passed away peacefully on December 11, 2022, at Northwestern Memorial Hospital in Chicago, IL.  Bill had made the decision to be an organ donor and was able to give the gift of life to two individuals.

Bill was born March 21, 1971 in Taylorville, IL, the son of Terri (Bingham) Rahar France and Bill Rahar, Sr.  He was a lifelong resident of Taylorville and a 1989 graduate of Taylorville High School where he was a member of the football and wrestling teams and a drummer for the Taylorville High School Band. He was especially proud to be a member of the Taylorville Building Trades Class led by Ron Monge.  During Bill’s career, he was employed with Norfolk & Southern Railroad, Grain Systems Inc., Kennedy Metal Products and construction at Archer Daniels Midland.

Bill was passionate about fishing at the lake, watching his favorite football team, the Pittsburg Steelers, and spending time with his family and friends.  He was especially proud of his daughter and grandchildren.  He always had a hug to give and a funny story to share.  All children loved Bill, he was kind and funny.  He will be greatly missed by his family and friends.

Bill is survived by his parents, Bill (Deb) Rahar and Terri France (Mark Stephens), all of Taylorville; daughter, Brooke Rahar (Johnathon Cox) of Tower Hill; grandchildren, Oliver Bilyeu and Aubree, Aria and Ivy Cox; sister, Amy Black (Brian Grant) of St. Louis, Mo; nephews, Sam and Hayden Black of St. Louis, Mo.; step-siblings, and many aunts, uncles and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his step-father Randy France, grandparents; Charles and June Rahar, Robert Bingham and Cathleen McKinnon; and his uncle Jeff Bingham.

The family will receive friends and family at Sutton Memorial Home in Taylorville, IL from 9:00 to 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, December 17, 2022.  The funeral service will immediately follow with Pastor Becky Lembke and Pastor Chad Zeuck officiating, preceding burial at Oak Hill Cemetery in Taylorville.

Donations may be made in his name to an organization he supported, Taylorville Food Pantry, 1429 E. Main Cross, Taylorville, IL 62568.

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

Please sign our online guest book at suttonmemorialhome.com

M. Yates Stewart, 92, of Taylorville, passed away at 4:40 a.m. on Sunday, December 11, 2022, at Taylorville Memorial Hospital.

Yates was born December 5, 1930, in Palmyra, the son of John Curtis and Bertha Blanche (Eyer) Stewart.  He married Geraldine V. Antoine on June 1, 1957, at the Davis Memorial Christian Church in Taylorville, and they have enjoyed 65 years of marriage.

Yates proudly served his country in the United States Army during the Korean War, and upon his honorable discharge worked for several years as an over the road trucker.  He then went on to work for Norfolk Western Railroad for thirty-one years, as a carman, until his retirement in 1991.

Yates was a handyman, and if he didn’t know how to do something he learned how to, so he could fix it himself.  He loved vegetable gardening and remodeling projects.  Yates also enjoyed doing mechanical work on his own vehicles.
He was preceded in death by his parents; sisters, Joann Jones and Twyla McDonald; and brothers, Alden and William Stewart.

Yates is survived by his wife, Gerry Stewart of Taylorville; children, Connie (husband, Gary) King of Taylorville, Brenda Borgic of Taylorville, Michael (wife, Melodi) Stewart of Palmer, and Robert Stewart of Taylorville; 11 grandchildren; 11 great grandchildren; sister, Helen Jones of Jacksonville; and many nieces and nephews.
Private ceremonies will be held, followed by burial at Oak Hill Cemetery in Taylorville.
Memorial contributions may be made to Yates’ family.

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

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

Donald L. Copenbarger, 57 of Mt. Auburn, passed away at 1:33p.m. on Saturday, December 10, 2022 at Springfield Memorial Hospital.  He was born on August 21, 1965 in Lincoln, the son of Marvin and Shirley (Jay) Copenbarger.  He married Kathy Mullins on August 21, 1991 in Taylorville.  Don worked as a self-employed, over-the-road truck driver for many years.  He enjoyed camping, playing computer games, watching tv and farming.  He loved animals of all kinds. 

He is survived by his wife: Kathy Copenbarger; parents: Marvin and Shirley Copenbarger; son: George Copenbarger; grandson: Gabriel Copenbarger all of Mt. Auburn; siblings: Sharon (David) Schahl of Chatham, Susan (John) MacKenzie of Mt. Zion, and Mark Copenbarger of Springfield; 3 nephews and several great nieces and nephews.  He was preceded in death by his son: Joshua Copenbarger.

In keeping with his wishes, Don will be cremated, and no services will be held.  McClure Funeral Home and Cremation Services in Taylorville is assisting the family with arrangements.  Memories of Don, or condolences to his family, may be shared online at www.mcclurefuneralhome.com.

Kay Carol Champley, 79, of Taylorville, passed away peacefully, surrounded by her family and close friends on December 9, 2022.

Kay was born November 24, 1943, in Taylorville, the daughter of Abe and Mavis “Mickey” (Martin) Girard.  She was raised by her mother and devoted stepfather, Melvin Page.  Kay married Phillip Champley, they later divorced, and remarried for the rest of her life.

Kay worked at Woolworth’s and Sherman’s Clothing Store, as well as the City of Taylorville as a police dispatcher and for the street department.  She sold cars with her son, and enjoyed working with schools as a crossing guard, playground and lunchroom supervisor, and as a teacher’s aide for many years.

Kay was known to many as the “Halloween Lady”, because she decorated her houses for over 40 years, and hosted hundreds of trick or treaters annually.  She was instrumental in starting “Christmas in the Park”, and she was active as a Den Leader for the Cub Scouts.  Kay was an avid animal lover, having saved many animals and assisted in rehoming countless others.  Kay had a lasting impression on everyone that knew her.

She was preceded in death by her parents; and brother, Jack Girard.

Kay is survived by her husband; children, Rick (Lisa) Champley, Phyllis (Jon) Rosenthal, and Phil (Rhoda) Champley, all of Taylorville; 8 grandchildren, Kurt (Joellen), Kyle, Katelyn (Brian), Kregg, Karson, Karter, Kelsi, and Kord (Madisyn); 11 great grandchildren, Jade, Justin, Jalen, Jagger, Shey, Cooper, Briggs, Laker, Ellie, Beckett, and Cainen; sister, Bev Bergschneider; cohort in crime and special friend, Tracy Mills; her last dog, Herbie; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and in-laws.

Visitation & Memorial Ceremony: The family will receive friends from 1:00-3:00 p.m. on Sunday, December 18, 2022 at the Community of Christ, 321 E. Bidwell Street, Taylorville, IL 62568.  The memorial ceremony will follow the visitation at 3:00 p.m. with Lori McClung officiating.

Memorial contributions may be made to: Christmas in the Park c/o Taylorville Park District, PO Box 263, Taylorville, IL 62568, or 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 Vincent, or to offer condolences to his family.

Donald R. Garmon, 90, of Taylorville passed away December 7, 2022 at Taylorville Memorial Hospital, Taylorville. He was born July 31, 1932 in Stonington Illinois, the son of Herbert and Rose (Pyle) Garmon. Donald proudly served in the USMC during the Korean War. He married Shirley Gensler on June 26, 1955 in Tupelo, MS. She preceded him in death on February 14, 1996. Donald then married Lola Riech on May, 3 1997 in Taylorville, IL and she preceded him in death on February 27, 2010. Donald worked at ADM as a maintenance foreman and retired after 27 years. He enjoyed watching westerns, listening to country music, eating breakfast at Bill’s Toasty, wood working, and engine repairing.

Donald is survived by his children: Steven R. Garmon of Taylorville, David (Janice) Garmon of Michigan. Daughter in Law: Kathy Garmon of Taylorville, Granddaughters: Kim (Jesse) Adrian of Taylorville, Jennifer Garmon of Taylorville. Sister: Carol Tradeau of Mt. Auburn, and several nieces and nephews.

He is proceeded in death by his parents; Wives: Shirley and Lola, Son: Donald J. Garmon, Brothers: Bill Garmon and infant brother Paul Garmon.

Visitation for Donald will be held Tuesday, December 13, 2022 from 12:00 P.M. to 2:00 P.M. at First Baptist Church in Morrisonville, Illinois. Funeral Service will follow visitation at the church with Pastor Chad Foster officiating. Interment will be in Anderson Cemetery in Palmer, Illinois.

Memorials in Donald’s memory can be made to the First Baptist Church in Morrisonville, Illinois.

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

Karen “Suedy” Sue Popovich Collebrusco, 77 of Taylorville passed away on Thursday, December 8th, 2022 at 11:45 A.M. at her residence in Taylorville, IL. She was born on October 2, 1945 in Pawnee, IL. The daughter of George and June Popovich, Karen graduated from Pawnee High School and later married Alan Collebrusco on November 9, 1973 in Taylorville, IL. She worked as a legal secretary for Hershey Periard Beavers and was a member of The Christmas Tea Committee and a long time supporter of the Christian County Animal Shelter. Karen was an incredible wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend. She loved life, collecting, decorating, and spending time with her dogs Ralphie and her constant companion Zoey.

Karen is survived by her husband: Alan Collebrusco; children: Tracie (Kevin) Boehme; Kellie (Mark) Hamell; Jeff (Wendi) Scattergood; Nick Collebrusco; grandchildren: Riley Hamell; Jake Hamell; J.T. Boehme; Audra Boehme; Frank Collebrusco; Mason Scattergood; Mila Scattergood; siblings; Eileen O’Brien, Larry Popovich; Melodie (Jeff) Gaz; Melissa (Brad) Driskill; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins. She was preceeded in death by her parents and two sisters: Cheryl Murphy and Sharron Shotton.

A visitation will be held on Monday, December 12, 2022 from 4:00-7:00 P.M. at Sutton Memorial Home in Taylorville, IL. Funeral services will be held Tuesday, December 13, 2022 at 10:00 A.M. at Sutton Memorial Home with Dennis Metsker officiating. Interment will be at Oak Hill Cemetery in Taylorville, IL immediately after.

Memorials may be made to The Christian County Animal Shelter or The American Cancer Society.

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

Ben Theilen, 44, of Springfield, passed away on Tuesday, December 6, 2022 at Springfield Memorial Hospital.  He was born April 8, 1978 in Springfield, to Larry and Barbara Bee Theilen.  He married Morgan M. Park on June 22, 2013, and she survives.

Also surviving are three children, Grayson, Monroe and Emmerson; parents, Larry and Barbara Theilen of Springfield; one brother Kristofer (Lori) Theilen of Springfield; the family pup, Charlie; and several aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Robert and Ann Bee and August and Lena Theilen.

Ben was a beloved member of West Side Christian Church.

He received his Bachelor’s Degree in Education and Master’s in Administrative Education at Eastern Illinois University. He then obtained a Superintendent Endorsement.

He began his teaching career at Pleasant Plains Middle School as an 8th grade math teacher, then became Assistant Principal and then Principal. He was currently serving as Superintendent of Schools for the Community of Edinburg.

Ben coached baseball, basketball and softball in the Pleasant Plains district, but his most enjoyable coaching was for his son’s baseball team and daughter’s basketball team.   He was an avid collector of baseball cards, which later turned into a large collection of various items from area auctions. He loved watching the St. Louis Cardinals and enjoyed Illini basketball and participating in fantasy football.  On the side, he enjoyed helping his dad and uncle as a carpenter and tinkering in the garage.  He will be remembered as a wonderful educator and friend, but most importantly a dedicated husband, father, son and brother.

Visitation: 4 – 8 pm, Monday, December 12, 2022 at West Side Christian Church.

Funeral Service:  10 am, Tuesday, December 13, 2022 at West Side Christian Church with Bryan Throckmorton officiating.  Burial will follow at Farmington Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to: Morgan M. Theilen for their children’s education fund.

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Mr. Richard L. Smothers, 88, of Springfield, IL died December 4, 2022 at Memorial Medical Center, Springfield.

He was born July 31, 1934 the son of Larry and Edith Smothers.  He graduated from South Fork High School in 1952 and in 1967 married Joyce Lauwerens, who preceded him in death in 2013.

He was a member of the United Mine Workers and retired from Freeman United.  He enjoyed bowling and spending time outdoors and entertained himself with mechanical projects and watching TV Westerns.

He is survived by a brother Gary (Gigi) Smothers of Taylorville, IL., sisters Faye Hay (Dan) of Chatham, IL., Beverly Wiggs of Mascoutah, IL., brother-in-law Jim (Mary Ann) Lauwerens of Chesterfield, IL., sister-in-law Linda Lauwerens of Dawson, IL., 12 nieces and nephews and his faithful dog Ralph.

Visitation will be held Friday, December 9, 2022 at Masterson’s Funeral Home in Kincaid, IL from 10 to 11:00 A.M. with a short prayer service to follow.  Interment will be in Calvary Cemetery in Pawnee.  Memorials are suggested to the Animal Protective League – 1001 Taintor Rd – Springfield, IL 62702.  Condolences may also be left at mastersonfh.com

Dolores Ruth Miller born on July 15, 1937, to parents Eva and Arthur Davis.  She married Charles P Miller who preceded her in January 12, 2018.  Dolores is survived by her three children, Dale (Karen) Miller of Nokomis, IL.  Diana (Tom) Clutter of Beecher City, IL, and Timothy (Deborah) Miller of Bluffs, IL. Dolores had 7 grandchildren, 14 great-grandchildren, and 4 great-great-grandchildren. Dolores spent the earlier years of her life as a homemaker while raising her three children.  She then went to work at Rothley INC, Eldorado Apparel, and then the International Ladies' garment union as an organizer, where she also spent time as a business agent and district manager until her retirement.  Dolores was a member of the Harley Owners Group (HOG) Springfield, IL Chapter.
 

Dolores enjoyed a great life.  She had a great love for her family.  She thoroughly enjoyed being a mother and grandmother, however, she also was an avid motorcycle rider.  Dolores rode her motorcycle to all contiguous 48 states.  She completed the Route 66 tour five times, the Lewis and Clark Exhibition, the Pony Express run, and many other tours including Niagara Falls and a trip to New Zealand.

Dolores was a very humble and hard-working woman.  She often expressed her thankfulness to God for her Blessed life which she thoroughly enjoyed and will be missed by many friends and family that she has met throughout her life.

A visitation for Dolores will be held on Wednesday, December 7, 2022, from 10:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m. at Sutton Memorial Home in Taylorville, IL. A funeral service will be held immediately following at 12:00 p.m., also at Sutton Memorial Home, with Rev. Brennan Hurley officiating. Interment will immediately follow at Morrisonville Cemetery in rural Morrisonville, IL.

Memorials in Dolores’ name may be made to Toys for Tots.

Sutton Memorial Home in Taylorville, IL. is in charge of arrangements.

Please sign our online guestbook.

Mrs. Twila Kay Wise, 63, of Bulpitt, IL., passed from this life at 6:26 a.m. Friday, December 2, 2022 in St. John’s Hospital, Springfield, IL.

She was born May 17, 1959 in Sidney, MT., the daughter of Herbert and Myris (Fay) Damm.  She was raised by her mother and step-dad Lynn Sorensen.

Twila married Frank Wise on July 18, 1998 in Bulpitt, IL. 

Mrs. Wise formerly worked at Wal-Mart in Taylorville, IL.  She enjoyed fishing, motorcycling, especially rides around Lake Sangchris looking for wildlife, vacationing in Florida, watching wrestling and the Game Show Network, and she loved Christmas.  Twila was a member of the Baptist faith.

Surviving are her loving husband Frank Wise of Bulpitt, IL., 3 children Justin (wife Tabatha) Hay of Kincaid, IL., Coleman Buer of Fargo, ND., and Nicole (husband Cody) Kee of Kincaid, IL., 5 grandchildren Devon Moore, Jorden Miller, Bryanna Hay, Coleten Kee and Lincoln Kee, a brother Dennis (wife Vicki) Damm of Columbus, ND., 3 sisters Lynn Iverson of Fargo, ND., Diana (husband Jerry) Miller of Streeter, ND., Carol Hudelson of Fargo, ND., along with several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents.

Visitation for Mrs. Twila K. Wise will be held from 4 to 7:00 P.M. Tuesday, December 6, 2022 at Masterson Funeral Home in Kincaid, IL.  Funeral services will follow with family Pastor Bob Wise officiating.  Condolences may also be left at mastersonfh.com and will be printed and given to her family.  Memorial contributions in memory of Mrs. Wise are suggested to the donor's choice.   

Kenneth Kyle “Kenny” Martin, 23, of Taylorville, IL, passed away on November 30, 2022, at UPMC Presbyterian in Pittsburgh, PA; Kenny was born on December 6, 1998, in Springfield, IL, the son of Donnie and Rhonda (Miller) Martin.

Kenny is survived by his parents; one sister, Brenda Martin of Athens, IL; nephews, Payton Hicks and Owen Stoye; maternal grandfather, S.J. Miller and paternal grandmother, Mary Ann Smith; Kenny was also survived by many aunts, uncles and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his maternal grandparents, Geraldine and William Thompson and paternal grandfather, Harold Smith.

Kenny was a proud member of the South Fork Dirt Riders of Taylorville, IL; he enjoyed being covered in mud while riding four wheelers, mudding at the South Fork Track, and camping at the current river. He also enjoyed being able to deer hunt with his grandpa at his farm, as well as hunting at Sangchris Lake.

A visitation will be held on Thursday, December 8, 2022, from 4:00 p.m.-8:00 p.m. at Sutton Memorial Home in Taylorville, IL. A funeral service will be held on Friday, December 9, 2022 at 11:00 a.m. at Sutton Memorial Home, with Rev. Gerald McPhillips officiating. Interment will immediately follow at Edinburg Cemetery in rural Edinburg, IL.

Memorials may be made to the family of Kenneth Martin.

Sutton Memorial Home in Taylorville is in charge of arrangements.

Please sign our guestbook at suttonmemorialhome.com

Ruth E. Weiser, 95 of Taylorville, passed away at 11:10a.m. on Thursday, December 1, 2022 at Taylorville Care Center.  She was born on August 14, 1927 in Springfield, the daughter of Edwin and Helen (Brittin) Aarup.  She married Robert H Weiser on June 4, 1949 in Springfield, and he preceded her in death on March 2, 1992.  Ruth attended Brown’s Business College and earned her certification as a real estate agent and broker.  She began her career in real estate in 1967 and was one of the first women in Illinois to have such a career.  Her real estate career continued for several decades in not only central Illinois but also Texas.  She was a charter member of the Taylorville Christian Church.  Ruth was and active member in several area organizations including: Kiwanis, White Shrine, BPW, VFW Auxiliary, and Beta Sigma Phi sorority.  She also enjoyed crocheting and singing as a part of Harmony. 

She is survived by her children: Carol (Gene) Heberling of Taylorville, Joan (Kenny ) Grammer of Sevierville, Tennessee, Bill (Donna) Weiser of Taylorville, and Barb (Mike) Profeta of Pawnee; 11 grandchildren; 16 great grandchildren; and 3 great-great grandchildren; and sister: Dorothy Withers of Tennessee.  She was preceded in death by her parents; husband; a grandchild; brother: John Aarup; and sister: Joyce Akers.

A funeral service for Ruth will take place at 2:00p.m. on Monday, December 5, 2022 at McClure Funeral Home in Taylorville with Rev. Dick Wamsley officiating.  Visitation will he held one hour prior to the service on Monday.  Burial will be in Glen Haven Memorial Gardens.  Memorials may be made to the Taylorville Christian Church.  McClure Funeral Home and Cremation Services in Taylorville is assisting the family with arrangements.