Emmett “Tom” Hamm, 98, of Grove City, passed away on Saturday, April 29, 2023, at his residence with his family by his side.

Tom was born October 4, 1924, in Springfield, the son of Fred and Hulda (Hail) Hamm.  He proudly served our country in the United States Army during World War II.  Upon his honorable discharge, he married Cora F. Harter on February 2, 1944, in Petersburg.  They enjoyed 62 years of marriage.  She preceded him in death on March 19, 2006.

Tom was a hard worker.  He worked for Mt. Auburn Township for many years, and briefly for John Deere after his retirement.  Tom also helped many farmers in the area throughout the year with whatever needed done. He loved working on cars, and servicing old tubed T.V.s.  Tom was also an avid hunter, fisherman, and camper.

He was also preceded in death by his parents; son, Thomas E. “Bean” Hamm; daughter, April “Penny” Lamb; and one brother and two sisters.

Tom is survived by his children, Roy (Patsy) Hamm of Grove City, Freddie (Mary) Hamm of Illiopolis, Martha (Norman) Swinger of Grove City, Bill Hamm of Edinburg, Danny (Donna) Hamm of Pekin, Dorthy (Fred) Permenter of Camp, AR, Mary Riech of Springfield, Joe Hamm of Grove City, Patty (John) Mahan of Illiopolis, and Bobby Hamm of Springfield; 34 grandchildren; many great and great-great grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Graveside Ceremony: 1:00 p.m. on Tuesday, May 2, 2023, at Grove City Cemetery.  Military honors will be provided by the American Legion Post #73, V.F.W. Post #4495, and the Department of Defense.

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

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

Lawrence E. “Larry” Asmussen, 81 of Taylorville, passed away at 11:48p.m. on Thursday, April 27, 2023, surrounded by his family in his home.  He was born on October 26, 1941, in Chicago, the son of Milo and Evelyn (Collet) Asmussen.  He married Sandra Brabec on June 20, 1970, in Holy Name Cathedral, Chicago.  Larry received his bachelor’s degree from Southern Illinois University where he also competed on the swim team and was later inducted into the Wall of Fame for his swimming accomplishments.  He later earned his master’s degree from Eastern Illinois University and taught for many years in the Chicago and Taylorville area.  Swimming was a life-long passion for Larry.  He started the Taylorville Swim Team in 1974 and managed it for many years.  He participated in the Illinois Senior Olympics, earning 3 gold medals, and competed in the 2019 U.S. Senior Olympics in Albuquerque, New Mexico where he beat his personal records.  Larry swam over 5000 miles at the Christian County YMCA.  He also enjoyed woodworking and gardening. 

He is survived by his wife: Sandy Asmussen of Taylorville; sons: Lawrence P. “Larry Pat” Asmussen (Jennifer) and Michael L. Asmussen (Susan); daughter: Amy M. Fattori; and granddaughters: Megan, Genevieve, and Michelle.  He was preceded in death by his parents; brother: William Asmussen; and twin sister: Joan Asmussen.

Larry will be cremated, and a memorial service will take place at 10:00a.m. on Wednesday, May 3, 2023, at McClure Funeral Home in Taylorville with Rev. Tom Bellegante officiating.  A visitation will be held from 5:00p.m. until 7:00p.m. on Tuesday at McClure Funeral Home.  His remains will be inurned on his parent’s plot at a later date.  In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Christian County YMCA, Taylorville Food Pantry, or St. Mary’s Catholic School.  McClure Funeral Home and Cremation Services in Taylorville is assisting the family with arrangements.  Memories of Larry, or condolences to his family, may be shared online at www.mcclurefuneralhome.com.

Nathan “Butch” McKinney, 75, of Palmer, passed away at 12:15 a.m. on Thursday, April 27, 2023, at Springfield Memorial Hospital.

Butch was born February 8, 1948, in Taylorville, the son of Maurice Earl “Romey” and Florence (Wilson) McKinney.  He married Virginia Mae Powers on December 6, 1966, in Taylorville, and they have enjoyed over 56 years of marriage.

Butch retired from the Christian County Highway Department where he primarily served as a mechanic for 33 years.  He was a devoted member of Blessed Hope Baptist Church in Raymond.  Butch was dedicated to the work of the Lord.  Butch served others, and he served his community and neighbors as President of the Bear Creek Community Club in 1978.  Fishing, mushroom hunting, and watching game shows were his favorite pastimes, but what he loved most were giving and receiving hugs and spending time with his family.

He was preceded in death by his parents; sister, Mary Lee and her husband, Ronnie Howard; and brother, James and his wives, Catherine McKinney and Betty McKinney.

Butch is survived by his wife, Virginia Mae McKinney of Palmer; sons, Gregory Scott (Kim) McKinney of Ohio, and Randy Lee (Cathy) McKinney of Missouri; nieces that he raised as his daughters, Crystal Powers of New Hampshire, and Mary Powers of Waverly; several grandchildren and great grandchildren; brothers, Earl (Ethel) McKinney of Taylorville, Dan (Lavonna) McKinney of Argenta, and Larry (Barb) McKinney of Taylorville; and many nieces and nephews.

Visitation and Funeral Ceremony: The family will receive friends from 10:00-12:00 p.m. on Monday, May 1, 2023, at Blessed Hope Baptist Church, 715 S. O’Bannon Street, Raymond, IL 62560.  The funeral ceremony will follow the visitation at 12:00 p.m. with Pastor Jon Wagahoff officiating.

Interment will follow at Anderson Cemetery in Palmer.

Memorial contributions may be made to: Blessed Hope Baptist Church, 715 S. O’Bannon Street, Raymond, IL 62560.

The family has entrusted Perfetti-Assalley Funeral Home in Morrisonville with ceremonies.

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

Dennis A. Lawyer, 57 of Taylorville, passed away on Tuesday, April 25, 2023 at Taylorville Memorial Hospital. He was born on October 15, 1965, the son of Richard Eugene Lawyer and Mattie Marie Layne. He married Susie David on October 3, 2015 in Taylorville.

Dennis graduated high school and went on to work as a self-employed carpenter. In his spare time, he loved fishing and spending time with his family, whom he loved dearly.

He is survived by his wife: Susie Smith of Taylorville, IL; children: Jason Lawyer of Taylorville, IL; Nathan (Rebecca) Lawyer of Kincaid, IL; Tyler (Katrina) Smith of Taylorville, IL; Amanda Biggs of Taylorville; Kimberly (Tyler) Lawyer of Taylorville, IL; Joey (Brianna) Lawyer of Tennessee; grandchildren: Jace; Matti; Jaylynn; Micah; Declan; Hendrix; Silas; Makinley; Jamison; Jackson; Ayden; Mikula; Brooklynn; Dawson; Easton; Madeline; Chuck; Zeyton; Payton; brothers: Dayle Lawyer of Owaneco, IL; Travis Lawyer of Pelham, TN; as well as several nieces and nephews.

Dennis was preceded in death by his parents: Richard and Mattie Lawyer; son: Brent Lumb; and uncle: Jim Lawyer.

No public services will be held at this time. Memorials in his honor may be made to St. Jude Children’s Hospital.

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

Please sign our online guest book at suttonmemorialhome.com

Linda K. Lebeter, 63, of Morrisonville, passed away on Monday, April 24, 2023, at her residence.

Linda was born December 11, 1959, in Taylorville, the daughter of Charles Wayne and Phyllis G. (Oller) Cravens.  She married Michael A. Lebeter on January 15, 1993, in Taylorville, and they enjoyed over 30 years of marriage. 

Linda graduated from Morrisonville High School with the Class of 1978.  Linda worked various jobs before finding her career at the Taylorville Wal-Mart, where she was currently serving as Coach.  She had been employed there for the past 24 years.  Linda served as a sponsor for the Children’s Miracle Network, a cause she was very passionate about.  Though spunky, strong-willed, and occasionally stubborn, Linda was a wonderful and loving wife, mom, nana, and daughter. She was an avid U of I Fighting Illini fan, and the world’s biggest Tim McGraw fan.  Linda loved deer hunting, and especially loved fishing for crappie, bluegill, and bass.

She was preceded in death by her father; and sister, Janann Burrus.

Linda is survived by her mother, Phyllis G. Cravens of Kincaid; husband, Mike Lebeter of Morrisonville; children, Charles Williams of Raymond, Katrina (husband, Mark) Grundy of Morrisonville, and Madeline Lebeter of Birmingham, AL; granddaughter, Lena Mae Grundy; sisters, Georgia Cravens of Columbia, MO, and Debbie (husband, Dan) Skinner of Taylorville; and many nieces and nephews.

No public services will be held.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to: Children’s Miracle Network c/o Calvary Baptist Church, 930 Haner Ave, Taylorville, IL 62568.

The family has entrusted Perfetti-Assalley Funeral Home in Morrisonville with ceremonies.

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

Bruce B. Harrold, 66 of Taylorville, passed away on Wednesday, April 19, 2023 at Taylorville Care Center.  He was born on December 13, 1956 in Taylorville, the son of Claud and Mary (Purkes) Harrold.  He graduated from Taylorville High School in 1974 and continued his education at Lincoln Land Community College.  Bruce was a lifelong farmer by choice and an electronic technician by trade.  He worked for Beatty Televisual in Springfield for 40 years, retiring in 2022.  He never married but instead he poured his time into his family and helping others.  Bruce enjoyed woodworking and was an avid Ham Radio operator and a member of the Amateur Ham Radio Club. 

He is survived by his nieces and nephews: Bonnie Hall (Virgil) of Taylorville, Brendan Harrold (Lisa) of Taylorville, Andrea Richardson (Bill) of Taylorville, Desiree Monts (Leo) of Arkansas, Bryantt Harrold of Taylorville, Derek Monts of Arkansas, and Deidre Monts-Hernandez (Josue) of Arkansas; and great niece: Diana of Arkansas.  He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers: Jack Harrold and James Harrold; nephew: Drew Monts; and sister: Dana Garner.

Bruce will be cremated and a memorial service will take place at 11:00a.m. on Saturday, May 6. 2023 at McClure Funeral Home in Taylorville with Pastor Chad Zueck officiating.  A visitation will be held one hour prior to the service on Saturday and inurnment will take place in Oak Hill Cemetery.  McClure Funeral Home and Cremation Services in Taylorville is assisting the family with arrangements.  Memories of Bruce, or condolences to his family, may be shared online at www.mcclurefuneralhome.com.

Deborah Vacker, 67 of Taylorville passed away on Thursday, April 13, 2023 at Springfield Memorial Hospital. She was born on January 2, 1956 in Decatur, IL, the daughter of Robert E. Hanks Sr. and Rose M. Hanks.

Deborah is survived by her son: Matthew Vacker of Taylorville, IL; grandchildren: Colton Vacker; Christian Vacker; Jessica Sparling; Gavin Vacker; great-grandchildren: Ian Sparling; Theseus Vacker; mother: Rose Hanks; brother: Robert Hanks Jr. of Taylorville, IL; sister: Dawn Hanks of Maryland; as well as several nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her father, Robert E. Hanks Sr.

A graveside service will be held on Saturday, April 22, 2023 at 3:00 p.m. at Glen Haven Memorial Gardens in Taylorville, IL, with Pastor Tiney Walker officiating.

Memorials may be made to The American Cancer Society.

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

Please sign our online guest book at suttonmemorialhome.com

Madonna L. Phillips, 86 of Springfield, IL passed away on Thursday, April 13, 2023 at Lewis Memorial Christian Village in Springfield. She was born on March 3, 1937 the daughter of Lawrence Vincent McKinney and Cecelia Maria Jones. She married Robert D. Phillips in 1973 in Springfield and he preceded her in death on February 2, 1986.

She is survived by her sons: James (Sandra) Garibaldi of Taylorville, IL; Charles Garibaldi of Springfield, IL; John Garibaldi of Springfield, IL; one grandson; sisters: Rosemarie Henry of Champaign, IL; Janet McKinney of Springfield, IL; Theresa McKinney of Springfield, IL; Karen McKinney of Springfield, IL; as well as several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents: Lawrence Vincent McKinney and Cecelia Maria Jones; husband: Robert D. Phillips; brother: James McKinney; and sister: Barbara Millburg and Nancy Drury.

Visitation will be held on Monday, April 24, 2023 from 10:00-12:00 p.m. at Sutton Memorial Home in Taylorville, IL. A funeral service will begin at 12:00 p.m. with Pastor Gerald McPhillips officiating.

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

Please sign our online guest book at suttonmemorialhome.com

Martha Jean Wheeler, 71, of Taylorville, passed away at 11:08 p.m. on Sunday, April 16, 2023, at Carriage Crossing Senior Living of Taylorville.

Martha was born October 2, 1951, in Pana, the daughter of the late, Rex Eugene and Marie Magdalen (Huffmaster) Neece.  She married Larry Richard Wheeler on June 20, 1981, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Taylorville.  He preceded her in death on March 22, 2019

Martha graduated from Pana High School with the Class of 1969.  Upon graduation she earned her certification as a transcriptionist.  Martha was a dedicated and active member of Trinity Lutheran Church in Taylorville, where she worked as a Preschool Teacher’s Aide and later as the church secretary until her retirement.  Martha loved word finds and sudoku.  She was an avid Frank Vallie and the Four Seasons and Monkees fan.  Martha especially loved spending time with her faithful dog, Daisy, watching T.V.

Martha is survived by her son, Rex W. (wife, Cassy) Wheeler of Stonington; daughter, Hollie M. Wheeler of Taylorville; and many cousins.

Visitation & Memorial Ceremony: The family will receive guests from 12:00 p.m. until the time of ceremony at 1:00 p.m. on Friday, April 21, 2023, at Trinity Lutheran Church, 1010 N. Webster St., Taylorville, IL 62568, with Rev. Brian Johnston officiating.

Inurnment will follow at Oak Hill Cemetery in Taylorville.

Memorial Contributions may be made to: Trinity Lutheran Church, 1010 N. Webster St, 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 Martha, or to offer condolences to her family.

Sara E. Elmore, 63 of Springfield, passed away at 11:15p.m. on Friday, April 14, 2023 at Springfield Memorial Hospital.  She was born on September 3, 1959 in Taylorville, the daughter of Joseph and Ercel Sue (Massey) Nagle.  She married Frank H. Elmore Jr. on February 13, 2013 in Springfield.  Sara was an avid fan of the St. Louis Cardinals and enjoyed sharing Facebook greetings for her friends and family to start and end every day.  She had a gift for interior decorating and always loved a trip to Goodwill to find treasures.  She will be remembered as a very outgoing, open-minded person and will be missed by many.

She is survived by her husband: Frank Elmore Jr. of Springfield; children: Marlena Wadkins (Tiffany) of Taylorville, David Wadkins Jr. (Rachel) of Taylorville, Monica Harris (Orville) of Edinburg, and Jacob Wadkins (Krystal) of Decatur; and grandchildren: Emilee Boyd, Alex Wadkins, Isaiah Bailey, Lyndzee Harris, Autumn Yard, Jaedyn Wadkins, Ayla Wadkins, Jackson Wadkins, Kylee Fulk, Skylar Fulk, Bryant Harris, and Jude Osman.  She was preceded in death by her parents. 

Sara will be cremated, and her family will host a celebration of her life at 3:00p.m. on Saturday, April 22, at the Way of Life Church, 1929 W. Spresser St., Taylorville.  Memorial donations may be made to the Elmore Family.  McClure Funeral Home and Cremation Services in Taylorville is assisting the family with arrangements.  Memories of Sara, or condolences to her family, may be shared online at www.mcclurefuneralhome.com.

Joan Margaret Barker Collodi, 93, of Taylorville, IL released her spirit at 4:55 am Friday, April 14, 2023 at Taylorville Memorial Hospital. She was born August 10, 1929 in New Bedford, MA the daughter of George Barker and Agnes Dennet Barker.
Joan began the first years of her life living one block from both her paternal and maternal grandparents in a beachside community of New Bedford. As a young girl she would spend each day on the beach where swimming came as natural to her as walking. Joan’s father relocated the family to the St. Louis area while Joan was in fourth grade. She attending primary and secondary school in Collinsville, IL traveling back to New Bedford to spend the summers with her grandmother Barker.
On February 2, 1968 she married George Collodi in Las Vegas, NV.
As a lifelong learner Joan earned numerous degrees, graduating summa cum laude from St Louis University, St. Louis, MO with a bachelor’s in English Literature, followed up with an abd PhD in French Literature. Joan later enrolled at Sangamon State University, Springfield, IL where she studied Law then continuing on to receive her Masters in Human Development Counseling in 1990.
Joan’s occupational life was almost as colorful as she was. She was employed in a variety of occupations including professor at her Alma mater SSU. She and husband George were the owner operators of a local Taylorville restaurant, the Glass Key. However, Joan’s heart and soul were in her work as a counselor at Christian County Mental Health Taylorville until her retirement in 2017 at age 87. Joan said it took a while, but she finally found her life’s calling.
Joan had an adventurous spirit, traveling to 46 countries. She loved to share stories of travel, including a trip up Mt Kilimanjaro on the back of an elephant, kissing the Blarney Stone, touring the Great Pyramids and an overnight visit in an indigenous village. But her favorite vacation trip involved staying in the Treetops in Kenya. Joan was passionate about the care of animals.

Joan is survived by her two children, Christian D. Collodi of Taylorville, IL and David J. (Deborah) Collodi of Palm Beach, FL; one grandchild, Ty Roachford of Palm Beach, FL; her brother David Barker (Susan Wegner), of St. Louis, MO and several nieces and nephews. Joan was preceded in death by her husband George, parents George and Agnes (Dennet) Barker, siblings Fred Barker, and Jane Barker Meinert.

A date is pending for a Requiem Mass, to be held at St. Mary’s Parish, Taylorville, IL. A celebration of life service will be held at Unity of Springfield where Joan was an active member for a number of years including serving on the board. McClure Funeral Home and Cremation Services in Taylorville is assisting the family with arrangements.

It is evident that Joan loved everyone, after spending time with her you went away feeling better about yourself. Memorials may be made to Humane Society of the United States or Unity of Springfield.

Mrs. Mary Jane Behrends, 93, of Kincaid, formerly of the Peoria-Pekin area, passed away on Friday, April 14, 2023 surrounded by her family.

She was born in Rural Pekin on August 16, 1929 the daughter of Herman and Anna (Bleichner) Stauthammer, the youngest of 6 children.

She married Henry (Hank) Behrends on August 12, 1950 in Pekin.  They celebrated 65 years together before he passed away August 31, 2015.

Mary Jane graduated from Pekin High School in 1947.  Before her marriage, she worked as a telephone operator for Middle States Telephone Co. in Pekin.  She was a member of Trinity Lutheran Church in Taylorville.  She enjoyed going to garage sales, quilting, reading and watching Illini basketball and football.  She made hand loomed rugs for over 30 years.

Mary Jane is survived by her children Nancy (Dana) McKinney of Taylorville, Dennis (Barb) Behrends of Kincaid, 7 grandchildren Heather (Aaron) Whetsell, Destiny (Scott) Herpstreith, Holly (Jeremy) Orr, Jennifer (David) Wayman, Rachel (Heath) Cunningham, Brad (Kayla) Behrends, and Lisa (Kyle) Durbin, 10 great grandchildren Mallory and Macey Westrick, Dominic and Isaac Orr, Laura, Julie and Matthew Wayman, Ava Herpstreith, Brooklyn and Braxton Behrends, sister Grace Durham, sisters-in-law Sandy Behrends, Joann Stauthammer, and numerous nieces and nephews all of the Peoria area.

She was preceded in death by her husband Hank, son Tedd Behrends, parents, sister Mae Bouchez,  brothers John, Bill and Louis Stauthammer and sisters-in-law Marg Kirkham, Ida Stauthammer and Pat Stauthammer.

Visitation will be from 9:00 to 10:30 A.M. on Wednesday, April 19, 2023 at Trinity Lutheran Church, Taylorville.  Funeral services will immediately follow at the church.  Burial will be in Oak Hill Cemetery, Taylorville.  Masterson Funeral Home in Kincaid is handling arrangements.  Memorials may be made to Trinity Lutheran Church, 1010 N. Webster St., Taylorville, IL 62568

Mrs. Dorothy Aymer, 98, of Tovey, IL passed from this life on Friday, April 14, 2023 in Taylorville Care Center.  She was born in Bicknell, IN April 25, 1924 the daughter of Arthur L. and Dorothy (Wente) Bourlard, Sr.  Dorothy married Paul E. Aymer in Virginia on November 12, 1948.  He preceded her in death October 8, 1990.  Mrs. Aymer was a member of the Tovey United Methodist Church she enjoyed cooking and spending time with her family.  Surviving are her son Randy and his wife Pamela Aymer of Kincaid, IL 2 grandsons Randy Aymer, Jr., and Wesley wife Kelly Aymer all of Kincaid, IL 3 great grandchildren Randy Aymer, III. Victoria husband Emilio Saurez, Elizabeth Aymer and a great great grandchild Silver Saurez.  She was preceded in death by her parents, husband Paul, brother Arthur Bourlard, Jr., and 2 sisters Wilda Hilton and Louise Boesdorfer.  Private services will be held.  Masterson Funeral Home in Kincaid is assisting with arrangements.   

Robert L. Dautel, Jr., 66, of Morrisonville, passed away unexpectedly on Tuesday, April 11, 2023, at Decatur Memorial Hospital.

Bob was born March 10, 1957, in Taylorville, the son of Robert L. and Betty June (King) Dautel, Sr.  He married Barbara J. Sikes on August 16, 1980, at the Palmer Advent Christian Church.  They have enjoyed over 42 years of marriage.

Bob graduated from Morrisonville High School with the Class of 1975 and went on to proudly serve our country in the United States Navy.  Upon his honorable discharge he went to work for the Peabody #10 coal mine before moving on to ABF in Springfield.  Bob spent the last 22 years at ADM in Decatur.  He loved fishing, flower gardening, and spending as much time outdoors as possible.  Bob was also an avid Chicago Cubs and Fighting Illini Basketball fan.

He was preceded in death by his father.

Bob is survived by his mother, Betty J. Dautel of Morrisonville; wife, Barb Dautel of Morrisonville; children, Jessica (Jason Scholebo) Dautel of Du Quoin, Jenna (Joseph) Apps of Spanish Fort, AL, and Jake (Kiersten) Dautel of Palmer; grandchildren, Gage Dautel, Charles Scholebo, Nicolas Apps, Joseph “Broady” Apps, Geneva Dautel, and Okal Dautel; siblings, Kathy Dautel Wexsttel of Taylorville, Beverly (Ken) Lipe of Raymond, Jim (Dorothy) Dautel of Morrisonville, and Peggy (Jim) Hemingway of Edinburg; and many aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Visitation and Memorial Ceremony: The family will receive friends from 4:00-7:00 p.m. on Tuesday, April 18, 2023, at Perfetti-Assalley Funeral Home, 304 Carlin Street, Morrisonville, IL 62546.  A memorial ceremony will follow the visitation at 7:00 p.m. at the funeral home, with Rev. Chad Foster.

Memorial contributions may be made to: The Arbor Day Foundation, 211 N. 12^th Street, Lincoln, NE 68508.

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

Mary Lou Harris, 77 of Kincaid, passed away on Wednesday, April 12, 2023 in her home.  She was born on January 30, 1946 in Taylorville, the daughter of Harold and Elena (Kimble) Shanks.  She married Gerald Hancock in 1966 and they later divorced.  She owned and operated several beauty shops in Taylorville throughout her life.  Mary Lou married Kirby Harris on June 16, 2001 and they spent many wonderful years together until Kirby passed on July 22, 2019. 

She is survived by her daughters: Tammy (Randy) Wagahoff and Angela (Tom) Dees both of Taylorville; grandchildren: Bradley (Autumn) Wagahoff of Blue Mound, Kody (Charlie) Rohan of Oklahoma, Thomas Joseph “T.J.” (Shameenah) Zucco of Las Vegas, Alex (Hannah) Dees of North Carolina, Chaz Dees of Taylorville, and Karsen Wagahoff of Taylorville; her beautiful great-grandchildren: Thomas, Jack and Abel Dees, Qwyn Wagahoff, and Charlotte and Sutton Rohan.  She is also survived by her loving siblings: Barbara (Buzz) Lancaster, Bonny (Greg) Buesking, Vickie “Tudie” (Greg) Gaillard, Pete (Mary) Shanks, Brenda (Jim) Gillenwater, Sandy (Dwight) Roberts, Steve (Jacqueline) Gifford; brothers-in-law: Billy Badman and Larry Griffiths; several nieces, nephews, great nieces, great nephews, and her aunt: Vella Kimble.  She is also survived by her friend and special companion who took such wonderful care of her, Melvin Runge.  She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, older sister: Sharon Griffiths; and more recently her younger sister: Anita Badman. 

A visitation for Mary Lou will take place from 4 until 6p.m. on Sunday, April 16, 2023 at McClure Funeral Home in Taylorville.  The funeral service will be held at 10a.m. on Monday with Pastor Chad Foster officiating, at the funeral home, and burial will take place in the Pleasant View Cemetery in Assumption.  McClure Funeral Home and Cremation Services in Taylorville is assisting the family with arrangements.  Memories of Mary Lou, or condolences to her family, may be shared online at www.mcclurefuneralhome.com.

Tammie J. Sutton, 63, of Taylorville, IL, passed away on Saturday, April 8, 2023 at Memorial Medical Center in Springfield, IL. She was born on December 15, 1959 in Taylorville, the daughter of Claude Porter and Mary Ester Turner. Tammie married Richard Sutton on December 30, 1982 in Taylorville and he preceded her in death on July 10, 2020.

She is survived by her daughter: Ashley (Mike) Kerney of Dade City, FL; grandchildren: Rian and Jacob Kerney; sister: Sandy Reagan of Madisonville, TN; aunt: Jean Steele of Palmer, IL; and several nephews and cousins. She was preceded in death by her parents and husband.

Graveside services will be held on Saturday, April 22, 2023 at 12:00 p.m. at Grove City Cemetery in Grove City, IL with Pastor Russ Burch officiating.

Memorials in Tammie’s honor may be made to St. Jude Children’s Hospital.

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

Please sign our online guest book at suttonmemorialhome.com

Carol Marie Trudeau, 79 of Mt. Auburn, passed away on Sunday, April 9, 2023 in her home.  She was born on November 7, 1943, the daughter of Herbert and Ayra (Pyle) Garmon.  Carol enjoyed working in her garden and yard.  When she was younger, she also enjoyed hunting and fishing. 

She is survived by her son: Sky Trudeau of Mt. Auburn, one granddaughter and 2 great grandsons.  She was preceded in death by her parents and 2 brothers.

Carol will be cremated and no services are planned at this time.  McClure Funeral Home and Cremation Services in Taylorville is assisting the family with arrangements.  

Fern Lorrine (Welch) Haines, 95 of Taylorville, formerly of Edinburg, Pawnee, and Palmer, passed away at 7:45a.m. on Thursday, April 6, 2023 at Taylorville Care Center.  Fern was born in rural Edinburg, the daughter of Merl L Welch and Meda Kelly Welch.  She married Glenn Haines Jr. on April 12, 1947 in Edinburg.  She was employed by the State of Illinois Department of Public Health before becoming a homemaker and farmer’s wife.  She was a member of Taylorville First United Methodist Church and a former member of Providence Methodist Church.  She was also a member of WSCS and Home Extension.  Fern enjoyed homemaking, cooking, and gardening.  She loved traveling with Glenn, especially a trip they took to Switzerland. Her door was always open to family and friends, from kids to adults.

She is survived by her sister-in-law, Beverly Welch; nieces Denise Welch, Debbie Welch, Darcy (Steve) Linnenburger, Cheryl (Dave) Culbertson, Kathi (Steve) Schilling; nephews Dennis (Patti) Welch, Brad Welch, David (Ayten) Welch and Mike (Brenda) Welch; and several great nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Glenn; brothers Merl (Bud) and Glenn L Welch; an infant sister; sister-in-laws Eileen Welch and Janet Welch.

A funeral service for Fern will be held at 11:00a.m. on Saturday, April 15, 2023 at McClure Funeral Home with Pastor Becky Lembke officiating.  The visitation will take place one hour prior to the service and burial will take place at Oak Hill Cemetery in Taylorville.  Memorials may be made to the Taylorville First United Methodist Church or the Taylorville Food Pantry.  McClure Funeral Home and Cremation Services in Taylorville is assisting the family with arrangements.  Memories of Fern, or condolences to her family, may be shared online at www.mcclurefuneralhome.com.

John R. Reynolds, 86, of Taylorville, IL, passed away Wednesday, April 5, 2023. He was born June 8, 1936, in Shelbyville, IL, the son of Charles “Bud” and Dorothy (Hannaman) Reynolds. He married Zona Ray on September 16, 1957. 

John graduated from Taylorville High School in 1954. After graduating, he attended Southern Illinois University in Carbondale, University of Iowa and was a member of the Illinois Air National Guard. He ultimately graduated from Sangamon State University with a Bachelor of Science degree in business.  John worked for the State of Illinois for 30 years before retiring in 1991.

He enjoyed spending time with family and friends, fishing, golf, playing cards, and following St. Louis Cardinals baseball and University of Illinois football. He was a member of the First Baptist Church of Taylorville and the VFW Post #4495.

He was preceded in death by his parents; and his sister, Marilyn (Reynolds) Pearce.

Surviving are his wife of 65 years, Zona (Ray) Reynolds of Taylorville, IL; two sons, Mike (Cindy) Reynolds of Kirkland, WA, and Steve (Amy) Reynolds of The Woodlands, TX; his sister, Jane (Reynolds) Acres of Springfield, IL; and five grandchildren, Stephanie Main, Kathryn Reynolds, Allison Reynolds, Zachary Reynolds, and Hannah Reynolds. 

John will be remembered as a loving husband, father, and grandfather.  He will be greatly missed by all.

Visitation: The family will receive friends from 4:00-7:00 p.m. on Friday, April 14, 2023 at Shafer-Perfetti & Assalley Funeral Home, 202 W. Franklin Street, Taylorville, IL 62568.

Funeral Ceremony: 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, April 15, 2023 at the funeral home with Rev. Steven Robinson officiating.

Interment will follow at Oak Hill Cemetery in Taylorville.

Memorial contributions may be made to: Land of Lincoln Honor Flight, 57 Country Place, Springfield, IL 62703.

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

Mary Esther Porter, 86, of Taylorville, IL, passed away on April 5, 2023, at Taylorville Memorial Hospital in Taylorville, IL. Mary was born on March 3, 1937, in Taylorville, IL, the daughter of Ernest and Selma (Macintosh) Turner. She married Claude Porter in Springfield, IL, in 1974.

She is survived by her daughters, Sandy Reagan of Madisonville, TN, and Tammie Sutton of Taylorville, IL; grandchildren, Nicki (Chasper) Harris, Rachel Reagan (Zack Phillips), Ashley (Mike) Karney, Scott Cepaitis, Tisa Eschenbaugh, Nancy (Jason) Cepaitis, Jamie Wright, Jason (Amanda) Wright, and Nathan Smith; sister, Jean Steele; she is also survived by many great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and cousins.    

Mary was preceded in death by her husband, Claude; parents; daughter, Debbie Cepaitis; son, Jim Smith and one granddaughter, Amanda Vance. 

A visitation for Mary will be held on Saturday, April 8, 2023, from 10:30-11:30 a.m., at Sutton Memorial Home in Taylorville, IL; A funeral service will follow the visitation, with Pastor Russ Burch officiating. Interment will follow at Grove City Cemetery in rural Mt. Auburn, IL.

The family would like to express a heartfelt thank you to Mary’s sister, Jean Steele, and the staff at Taylorville Memorial Hospital for their exceptional care.

Memorials in Mary’s name may be made to Church of the Nazarene in Taylorville, IL.  

Sutton Memorial Home in Taylorville has been entrusted with arrangements.

Please sign our online guestbook.

Laurence Oliver Rogers Jr., 77 of Springfield, passed away at 6:04p.m. on Wednesday, April 5, 2023 at Springfield Memorial Hospital.  He was born on March 3, 1946 in Beardstown, the son of Laurence and Betty (Herron) Rogers Sr.  He married Kathleen Ramona Anderson on November 13, 1965 at the Nazarene Church in Astoria, and she preceded him in death on December 12, 2020.  Larry graduated from Astoria High School in 1964 where he played football for 4 years.  He proudly served his country in the U.S. Army and went on to work as a truck driver for many years.  He retired from St. John’s Hospital where he worked in central receiving.  He enjoyed search-a-word puzzles and Alabama music.  He was a dog lover, especially his Chihuahuas.  Larry loved to read, especially the Bible.  As a person who faced many struggles in life, he closely identified with the book of Job, whose writings gave strength to his faith.   

He is survived by his daughters: Carrie Anderson (Kevin), Heather Rogers, and Sara Rogers all of Springfield; grandsons: Alexander Randall and Matthew Randall; sister: Sue Ann Herrick (William) of Canton; cousin: Jody McDonald (James) of Hanna City; and brother-in-law: Daniel Anderson (Cristina) of Rockford.  He was preceded in death by his parents and wife.

Larry will be cremated, and his family will host a celebration of life at a later date.  Memorials may be made to St. Francis CARE (https://stfrancis-care.org/donate/).  McClure Funeral Home and Cremation Services in Taylorville is assisting the family with arrangements.  Memories of Larry, or condolences to his family, may be shared online at www.mcclurefuneralhome.com.

Robert Gene Hanauer, 76, of Stonington, passed away at 11:04 p.m. on Wednesday, April 5, 2023, at OSF St. Joseph Medical Center in Bloomington.

Bob was born February 23, 1947, in Taylorville, the son of Lloyd and Louise (Marsango) Hanauer.  He attended Kincaid schools, and following high school went on to proudly serve our country in the United States Army.  Bob completed basic training and artillery training at Fort Sill, OK, after which he served one tour in Vietnam.  He was proud to be a Vietnam War Veteran.  After his honorable discharge, Bob worked for Firestone/Bridgestone in Decatur for 33 years, retiring upon the plant’s closure.

Bob married Ruth Ellen Vogel on September 18, 1971, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Taylorville.  They have enjoyed over 51 years of marriage.  Bob enjoyed fishing and hunting squirrels, rabbits, and especially ducks.  He was a lifelong Chicago Cubs fan, and fan of the Baltimore/Indianapolis Colts dating back to the days of Johnny Unitas.  Bob was a member of the American Legion Post 905 in Kincaid for over 50 years.

He was preceded in death by his parents; daughter, Ruth Ann Vandemark; and brother, Eddie Hanauer.

Bob is survived by his wife, Ruth Ellen Hanauer of Stonington; daughter, Mary Gail (husband, Juan) Aleman of Russell Springs, KY; son, Robert (wife, Kris) Hanauer II of Taylorville; 4 granddaughters; 2 grandsons; 12 great grandchildren; sister, Patricia Hill of Pawnee; and several nieces and nephews.

A private burial will be held at Old Stonington Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made to: St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105, Ducks Unlimited Taylorville, 930 Jaycee Ave, Taylorville, IL 62568, or the charity of the donor’s choosing.

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.

Rosalie J. Antrim, 84 of Taylorville, passed away on Monday, April 3, 2023 in her home.  She was born on November 19, 1938 in Pana, the daughter of Leo and Velma (Budds) Sinclair.  For over 40 years Rosalie operated her own dog grooming business, Clip N Trim, a career she was deeply passionate about.  She was a member of the First United Methodist Church.  She was a lifelong St. Louis Cardinals fan and enjoyed sports of any type.  No matter what the game was, she always enjoyed watching sports on TV and visiting with her family about the latest game.  She was a hard worker who took pride in maintaining an immaculate house and yard.  More than anything, she loved her family, especially her grandchildren and great grandchildren.  Rosalie always enjoyed hosting big holiday meals for her entire family.

She is survived by her children: James A. Mosely (Jean A.) of Tower Hill, David Gingrey (Tina) of Decatur, Arkansas, Jennifer Ehrhardt of Taylorville, Buddy Brown (Stacy) of Taylorville, and Chris Brown (Cori) of Trenton; 16 grandchildren; and 19 great grandchildren.  She was preceded in death by her parents; grandson: Nick Mosely; and brother: Ron Sinclair.

Rosalie will be cremated, and a memorial service will be held at a later date.  Memorials in her memory may be made to the First United Methodist Church.  McClure Funeral Home and Cremation Services in Taylorville is assisting the family with arrangements.  Memories of Rosalie, or condolences to the family, may be left online at www.mcclurefuneralhome.com. 

Lester Eugene “Bud” Kuntzman, 96 of Taylorville, passed away on Monday, April 3, 2023 at Taylorville Care Center.  He was born on March 22, 1927 in Taylorville, the son of Harold D. and Goldie O. (Elliott) Kuntzman.  He married Mary Nanette Flanders on July 27, 1948 in the Taylorville First Baptist Church, and she preceded him in death on February 28, 2015.  Bud was a WWII veteran of the United States Army.  He retired from Fiat Allis where he worked in the machine shop.  He was a member of the First United Methodist Church, life member of the VFW, and a Boy Scout committee member.  He enjoyed woodworking, spending time at the family lake lot, feeding birds, flower and vegetable gardening, reading, and watching westerns. 

He is survived by his children: David (Linda) Kuntzman of Springfield, Kathy Kuntzman of Taylorville, and Scott (Beth) Kuntzman of Stonington; daughter-in-law: JoAnn Kuntzman of Taylorville; grandchildren: Jennifer Harrison, deceased, (James) of Springfield, Kim Biggs (Michael) of Chatham, Chris Kuntzman of Taylorville, Steve Kuntzman of Mt. Auburn, James Kuntzman (Brandi) of Mt. Auburn, Kelly Green (Zach) of Greenville, South Carolina, Luke Daugherty (Amanda) of Taylorville, Nick Daugherty (Carrie) of Stonington, Heather Lindahl (Nathan) of Assumption, Adam Kuntzman (Zoe) of Macon, Bryan Kuntzman of Stonington, Jon Ridgley of Stonington, Jerry Ridgley of Taylorville, and Christine Winter (Russell) of Maryland; great grandchildren: Ella, Alec, Lacy, Cody, Quentin, J.T., Kyle, Karlee, Liam, Nolan, Harper, Brock, Blake, Johanna, Elizabeth, Julia, Cole, Dalton, Brody, Annjela, Willow, Madelyn, Presley, Rowan, Lincoln, Morgan, and Tommi; great-great grandchildren: Parker and Elle; and sister: Carolyn Godby of Pekin.  He was preceded in death by his parents; wife; son: Gary Kuntzman; granddaughter: Jennifer Harrison; brother: Henry “Tiny” Kuntzman; and sisters: Marge Brown and Nancy Halford.

A funeral service for Bud will take place at 11a.m. on Thursday, April 6, 2023 at McClure Funeral Home in Taylorville with Pastor Becky Lembke officiating.  A visitation will be held one hour prior to the service on Thursday.  Burial, with military honors, will take place at Fraley Cemetery.  Memorials may be made to the First United Methodist Church. McClure Funeral Home and Cremation Services in Taylorville is assisting the family with arrangements.  Memories of Bud, or condolences to the family, may be shared online at www.mcclurefuneralhome.com.