Christopher Hughes, 47 of Taylorville, passed away on Wednesday, June 28, 2023, at Barnes Jewish Hospital in St. Louis, Missouri.  He was born on August 4, 1975, in Paducah, Kentucky, the son of Carl and Viveca (Nelson) Hughes.  He worked as a certified auto mechanic at Bob Ridings in Pana.  Chris will be remembered as a hard-working, fun-loving person who was unknowingly, always the center of attention at any gathering through his wonderful sense of humor.  He was a hard-working man and very intuitive, he could learn to do anything just by watching.  He loved fishing, racing, and recently took up learning to cook a wide variety of dishes.   

He is survived by his sons: Trevor Hughes of Princeton, Kentucky, Christian Hughes of Taylorville, and Joseph Hughes of Taylorville; siblings: Tonia Hughes-Stone (Mike) of Junction City, Kansas, Sam Hughes (Laura) of Kincaid, and Seneka Hughes of Taylorville; and several cousins, nieces, nephews, aunts, and uncles.   

Chris will be cremated, and no services are planned at this time.  His family will host a benefit at a later date. Memorial donations may be shared c/o McClure Funeral Home to assist the family with funeral expenses.  McClure Funeral Home and Cremation Services in Taylorville is assisting the family with arrangements.  Memories of Chris, or condolences to his family, may be shared online at www.mcclurefuneralhome.com. 

Agnes L. Nagle, 84 of Springfield, formerly of Taylorville, passed away on Thursday, June 29, 2023 at St. John’s Hospital in Springfield.  She was born on May 27, 1939 in Taylorville, the daughter of Michael A. “Gus” and Margaret G. (Nolan) Nagle.  Agnes retired from St. Vincent Memorial Hospital where she worked for over 40 years as a telephone operator.  She was a member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church.   

She is survived by her sisters: Marie Nagle and Theresa Sanford both of Springfield; nephew: Roger Dingman, wife Cristina, of Springfield; and several cousins.  She was preceded in death by her parents. 

A funeral Mass for Agnes will take place at 11:00a.m. on Wednesday, July 5, 2023 at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Taylorville with Fr. Piotr Kosk officiating.  Visitation will be held one hour prior to the service on Wednesday in the church and burial will take place at Oak Hill Cemetery.  Memorials may be made to the Shriner’s Hospital for Children or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.  McClure Funeral Home and Cremation Services in Taylorville is assisting the family with arrangements.  Memories of Agnes, or condolences to her family, may be shared online at www.mcclurefuneralhome.com. 

Peggy Jo Wadkins of Taylorville, IL left this world to go to her heavenly home on June 20th, 2023 at St. John’s Hospital in Springfield, IL. Surrounded by her children, in perfect peace. She was the epitome of caring. A caring mother, grandmother, sister, and friend.

She was born to Harvey and Lorene Parker on February 21, 1935 and soon after became the proud big sister to 4 brothers and 1 sister. After graduating from Kincaid high school, Peggy moved to Chicago where she was a telephone operator. She soon met her husband Elton (Woody) on a blind date and 3 months later on July 18th, 1953, they were married. Together they had 8 children: Joyce, Terry, David, Tod, Tim, Julie, Angie, and Lori. Peggy was the most wonderful mother to her 8 children, and even though they didn’t have a lot, she would do everything possible to give them the most magical Christmas (which quickly became their favorite holiday). Peggy worked as a CNA at St. Vincent Hospital for 25 years and provided home care to several of her patients. She was a homemaker and worked at Community Child Care Connection in Springfield, IL.

Peggy loved spending time in the kitchen, creating delicious meals for her family. Neighborhood children would gather around the kitchen table for dinner, and Peggy would always say, “We’ll just add another plate”. Somehow there was always enough. Peggy would give her last dollar to those in need and would even go above and beyond for those she didn’t know. In 1988, she started and founded Hands and Heart in Taylorville; a local outreach that provided clothes for the underprivileged. What started as a small organization in the back of her church, continued to grow, leading the church to buy another building for Hands and Heart and continue serving the community.

The simplest pleasures in life brought great joy to Peggy. She loved a nice spring day sitting on the patio with a glass of sweet tea, dinners with her family, watching the birds come to eat outside her window while enjoying a warm cup of coffee, playing words with friends on her iPhone, cutting up and laughing with her kids and grandkids over a funny joke, cheering on her favorites in Dancing with the Stars, The Voice, and American Idol, baking a plate of cookies for her family, listening to music, and giving a warm hug to those she loved. She looked forward to every family birthday party, every Christmas party with her girls, and every yearly family reunion, held at Manners Park in Taylorville every summer. Above all, Peggy loved her family dearly. Her greatest joy was spending time with her kids and holding each new grandchild and great-grandchild.

Peggy, with her strong faith in God, looked forward to church and worshiping her Lord. In 1985 she started a bible study in her home where there were several salvations. She was always praying for her family, for their safety and healing and that they would come to know Jesus like she did. She was an uplifter and encourager reminding her family in the hard times, 1 Peter 5:10, “This too shall pass”. 

While this is a huge loss for the family, they find peace knowing she is dancing with Jesus, catching up with her Grandma Sanders, and forever in glory.

She is survived by her daughters: Joyce (Bert) Davidson of Bunker Hill, IL; Julie (Andy) Hendrickson of Taylorville, IL; Angela (Roger) Damery of Taylorville, IL; Lori (Mike) Hendricks of Taylorville, IL; sons: Terry Wadkins of Sevierville, TN; David (Lisa) Wadkins of Taylorville, IL; Tod L. Wadkins of Taylorville, IL; Tim (Sherri) Wadkins of Tovey, IL; step-son: Jerry (Debbie) Wadkins of Sanducky, OH; grandchildren: Stephanie (Brad) Lush; Steven (Janessa) Lockwood; Samantha (Matt) Donaldson; Kristy (Peter) Geppert; Heather (Scott) Mikrut; Tug (Brooke) Wadkins; Marlena Wadkins and companion Tiffany Bailey; David (Rachael) Wadkins; Monica (Orville) Harris; Jacob Wadkins and companion Krystal Summar; Tiffany (Shane) Brown; Timmy (Celeste) Wadkins; Kami (Eric) Kingery; Jennifer (Dave) Doyen; Jayme Hendrickson (Brian Windell); Zachariah (Paige) Hendrickson; Allison (Matt) Scott; Josiah (Kasey) Damery; Jaden Damery (Natalie Boham); Karli Damery (Guilherme Bazil); Corey (Laura) Hendricks; Matt Hendricks (Amy Suhre); Tyler Hendricks; step-grandchildren: Matthew; Josh; Kevin; Lisa; Laura; Joy; Bobby Jr.; Chad; Charles; Michelle; Christopher; 54 great-grandchildren; sister: Marcia Parker and companion Gary Cundiff of Tovey, IL; brothers: Jerry (Nancy) Parker of Broken Arrow, OK; Robert “Bob” Parker of Lake Ozark, MO; sisters-in-law: Paddi Parker of Fort Meyers, FL; Linda Canale of Taylorville, IL; as well as many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Peggy was preceded in death by her parents: Harvey and Lorene Parker; husband: Elton Woodrow Wadkins; brothers: Tom Parker and Harry Parker; step-daughter: Virginia Hobbs; step-son Bobby Wadkins; and sister-in-law: Jane Parker.

A visitation will take place on Friday, June 23, 2023 from 4:00-7:00 p.m. at Sutton Memorial Home in Taylorville, IL. A funeral service will be held the following day at 1:00 p.m. at Sutton Memorial Home with Steven Lockwood officiating. Interment will follow at Glen Haven Memorial Gardens. Peggy’s family invites everyone to attend a dinner held afterwards at Way of Life Church in Taylorville.

Memorials in Peggy’s honor may be made to the American Cancer Society or to Wounded Warriors.

Sutton Memorial Home is assisting the family with arrangements. Please sign our online guestbook at suttonmemorialhome.com

Robert ‘Bob’ Eugene Shanks, Sr., 72, of Taylorville, IL passed away at 3:38 p.m. on Friday, June 16, 2023, at his home, with family by his side.

Bob was born December 24, 1950, in Rolla, MO. He is the son of Lewis and Mary (Earney) Shanks.  He graduated from Rolla High School and went on to proudly serve our country in the United States Army.  Bob married DeeAnne Whitehead on January 6, 1982, in Taylorville, IL. and they enjoyed over 41 years of marriage together.

He was an Army man through and through.  Bob loved his country and was proud of his service to our country.  After being honorably discharged, he worked for multiple grain bin companies. The first being Baughman Oster for 11 years, then Illini metals for 4 years, Precision Products, and retired from ATY. Bob was a member of the Pentecostal church in Rolla, Missouri, the Taylorville VFW Post #4495, as a life-time member, the Taylorville Eagles Club, and the American Legion Post #73 of Taylorville. He had varied hobbies such as hunting and fishing, woodworking, gardening, feeding the squirrels and birds, playing in a pool league, and playing in many pool tournaments. He had a profound love for all animals, especially his two surviving yorkies. He was a hardworking, loving, give you the shirt off his back kind of man. He took pride in his family and loved them and his country unconditionally.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Lewis and Mary; and his siblings, David and Rita; paternal siblings, James, Leroy, John, Harold, Pete, Raymond, Rev. George, Sherman, Bernice, Velma, Josephine, and Polly; maternal siblings, Lonnie, Bill, Jim, Sis, Alice, and Marty; and his loving Yorkie companions, Lucy and Princess.

Bob is survived by his wife, DeeAnne Shanks of Taylorville; his children, Robert E. (Amy) Shanks, Jr. of Morrisonville,  Jeffery L. (companion, Jackie) Shanks, of Kincaid, Angela L. Peters of Taylorville, and Tara K. (Jeff) Graham of Stonington; grandchildren, Danielle, Tiffani, Jaden, Jeffrey (Angie), Justin (Dani), Carly, Garret; great grandchildren, Aleece, Fletcher, Fhallen, Annjela, Willow, Naudia, Kera, Dyllan, Jeffrey III, Gunnar, Emi; siblings, Louie (Tina) Shanks of Taylorville, Frank (Monkol) Shanks of Albuquerque, NM, and Rosie Reed of Rolla, MO.

Visitation: the family will receive guests from 5:00-7:00 p.m. on Tuesday, June 20, 2023, at Shafer-Perfetti and Assalley Funeral Home, 202 W. Franklin St., Taylorville, IL 62568.

Funeral Service: 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, June 21, 2023, at the funeral home with Rev. Chad Foster Officiating.

Interment with military honors will follow the funeral service at Ponting Cemetery in Stonington.

Memorial contributions may be made to: DeeAnne Shanks, c/o Shafer-Perfetti and Assalley Funeral Home, 202 W. Franklin St., Taylorville, IL 62568.

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

Bill Hope, 99 of Taylorville, IL, passed away at 10:44 p.m. on June 12, 2023, at Taylorville Memorial Hospital. He was born on January 27, 1924, in Sesser, IL, to the late Schrader Hope and Eunice (Lynn) Hope. He married Pamela Hope and they were married for 53 years before her passing. Bill remarried Roberta (Keiser) in September of 1999 at Taylorville Christian Church, and she survives.

Bill served in World War II and was the last surviving crew member of the B-24 Bomber “Homesick Angel”. After proudly serving his country, Bill obtained a master’s Degree and became a teacher at South School. He taught fifth grade from 1968 until his retirement several years later. He was an active member of Taylorville Christian Church and loved his family dearly.

He is survived by his wife: Roberta Hope of Taylorville, IL; daughter: Constance “Connie” (Kenneth) Kleeman of Hoyelton, IL; son: David (Janice) Hope of Mackinaw, IL; eight grandchildren, nineteen great-grandchildren, and five great-great-grandchildren. Bill was preceded in death by his parents: Schrader Hope and Eunice Hope; his first wife: Pamela Hope; and his brother: Don Hope.

Cremation rites have been accorded and an inurnment will be held on Thursday, June 22, 2023, at 10:00 a.m. at the Memorial Chapel Mausoleum in Oak Ridge Cemetery, in Springfield, IL. Pastor Dick Wamsley will be officiating.

Memorials in Bill’s honor may be made to the American Cancer Society.

Sutton Memorial Home is assisting the family with arrangements. Please sign our online guestbook at suttonmemorialhome.com

Sheila A. Nation, 74 of Taylorville, peacefully passed away on Wednesday, June 14, 2023 surrounded by her family in her home.  She was born on May 13, 1949 in Taylorville, the daughter of Elwood and Rose (Curry) Denning.  She married William E. Nation on November 18, 1972 in Taylorville.  Sheila served her community as a police officer with the Taylorville Police Department, retiring after 22 years of service.  She had a strong faith that guided her life.  Sheila’s life centered around her family, who she loved more than anything.  She was extremely proud of her role as “GiGi” when she became a great grandmother. 

She is survived by her husband: Bill Nation of Taylorville; children: Eric Nation of Bedford, Texas, Melanie Prachel (Don) of Eustis, Florida, Crystal Nichols of Taylorville, Jaime Doolin (John) of Decatur, Steve Nation (Renee) of Keller, Texas, Mike Nation (Aggie) of Fort Worth, Texas, Bill Nation (Debbie) of Granite City, and John Nation (Caroline) of Fort Worth, Texas; several beloved grandchildren and great grandchildren; siblings: Jeff Denning (Rose) of Branson, Missouri, Brad Denning of Taylorville, Todd Denning (Nikki) of Taylorville; sister-in-law: Judy Denning of Kemper, Texas; and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.  She was preceded in death by her parents; son: Danny Nation; and siblings: Ronnie, Jay, David, Lee, Joyce, and Bruce. 

Sheila will be cremated, and a memorial service will take place at 12 noon on Monday, June 19, 2023 at McClure Funeral Home in Taylorville with Michael Longbons officiating.  Visitation will be held from 10:00a.m. until the time of the service and inurnment will take place in Glen Haven Cemetery in Taylorville.  McClure Funeral Home and Cremation Services in Taylorville is assisting the family with arrangements.  Memories of Sheila, or condolences to her family, may be shared online at www.mcclurefuneralhome.com.

Paul V. Misiorek, Jr. 79, of Taylorville, passed away at 4:18 a.m. on Wednesday, June 14, 2023, at his home.

Paul was born August 3, 1943, in Taylorville, the son of Paul V. and Valeria E. (Gaines) Misiorek, Sr.  He graduated from Taylorville High School with the Class of 1961, and went on to proudly serve our country in the United States Marine Corps.  Paul married Patricia Ann Anderson on December 9, 1961, in Hillsboro, and they enjoyed over 55 years of marriage.  She preceded him in death on January 10, 2016.

Paul was a Marine through and through.  Sometimes he was stubborn and too the point, but he loved to laugh, and was always ornery, funny, and witty.  Paul loved his country and was proud of his service to our country.  He worked for Bridgestone/Firestone for 35 years, and in his retirement spent 4 years working on the North American Pipeline.  Paul was a member of Trinity Lutheran Church in Taylorville, the NRA, and the Masonic Lodge.  He was an avid Chicago Bears and St. Louis Cardinals fan, he enjoyed fishing for catfish, and he loved John Wayne movies.  Though Paul had many interests, talents, and hobbies, his greatest love was Patricia, and he loved her with all his heart.

He was also preceded in death by his parents; and infant children, Debra K. and Jason V. Misiorek.

Paul is survived by his daughters, Paula (William Elmore) Copelin of Litchfield, and Michelle (Roger) Stokes of Taylorville; son, Edward P. (Cindy) Misiorek of Taylorville; grandchildren, Justin (Doreen) Misiorek of Springfield, Jared (Hannah) Misiorek of Springfield, Zac (Tiffany) Copelin of Edinburg, Patrick (Destiny) Copelin of Edinburg, Lee (Haylee Shrake) Stokes of Pana, Dalton (Fallon) Stokes of Springfield, and Parker (Madeline Althoff) Stokes of Rochester; and great grandchildren, Emma, Elijah, Elledii, William, Tenleigh, Cash, Sebastian, Lillee, Charlie, Serenity, Liam, Kairi, Stiles, and Braylee.

Memorial Ceremony: 2:00 p.m. on Sunday, June 25, 2023, at Trinity Lutheran Church, 1010 N. Webster Street, Taylorville, IL 62568 with Rev. Brian Johnston officiating.

Inurnment will be held at a later date at Oak Hill Cemetery in Taylorville.

Memorial contributions may be made to: the American Lung Association, 3000 Kelly Ln, Springfield, IL 62711.

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

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

Geraldine L. Dodson, 92 of Moweaqua, IL, passed away at 10:00 a.m. on June 13, 2023 at her residence. She was born on July 26, 1930 in Blue Mound, IL, to the late Floyd B. Mitchell and Ruby Mitchell Gowdy. She married Edward Dodson on September 15, 1951 in Taylorville, IL and he preceded her in death on January 24, 2022. Geraldine was a talented, self-employed seamstress and will be remembered for the kindness and love she showed to all animals.

She is survived by her daughter: Bonnie (Terry) Younker of Moweaqua, IL; grandchildren: Sean (Joyce) Stacey; Angie Hatley; Chad (Tasha) Younker; Brian (Aimee) Younker; sixteen great-grandchildren; seventeen great-great-grandchildren; and brother: Vernon (Karen) Mitchell. She was preceded in death by her parents and her husband.

A visitation will be held on Friday, June 23, 2023 from 12:00-1:00 p.m. at Sutton Memorial Home in Taylorville, IL. A memorial service will begin at 1:00 p.m. with Pastor James Jones officiating. Inurnment will follow at Oak Hill Cemetery.

Memorials in Geraldine’s honor may be made to the Christian County Animal Control.

Sutton Memorial Home is assisting the family with arrangements. Please sign our online guestbook at suttonmemorialhome.com

Ruth Ellen Hanauer, 74, of Stonington, passed away at 9:04 a.m. on Monday, June 12, 2023, at her residence.

Ruth was born April 9, 1949, in Breese, the daughter of Earl Conrad and Dorothy (Goldsmith) Vogel. She graduated from Taylorville High School with the Class of 1967.  Ruth married Robert Gene Hanauer on September 18, 1971, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Taylorville, and they enjoyed over 51 years of marriage.  He preceded her in death on April 5, 2023.

In her younger years, Ruth worked for Ben Franklin in Springfield, and at Angelo’s as a waitress.  She eventually retired from Head Start in Stonington, where she was a Cook Aide for over 15 years.  Ruth was devoted to her faith and her church.  As a member of Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Stonington, she was active for several years with the Altar & Rosary Society, as well as Koinonia. Ruth loved nothing more than the gatherings that brought her family together.

She was also preceded in death by her parents; daughter, Ruth Ann Vandemark; sister, Margaret Ess; and brothers, David and Thomas Joseph Vogel.

Ruth is survived by her son, Robert (wife, Kris) Hanauer II of Taylorville; daughter, Mary Gail (husband, Juan) Aleman of Russell Springs, KY; grandchildren, Robert Hanauer III, Connor Hanauer, Gloria Aleman, Ana Young, Crystal Jasper, and Marisa Agent; 12 great grandchildren; brothers, John (wife, Mary) Vogel of Taylorville, and Frank (wife, Cheryl) Vogel of Argenta; and several nieces and nephews.

Funeral Mass: 10:00 a.m. on Thursday, June 15, 2023, at Holy Trinity Catholic Church, 308 N. Pine Street, Stonington, IL 62567.  No visitation will be held prior to mass.

A private burial will be held at Old Stonington Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made to: Holy Trinity Catholic Church, 308 N. Pine Street, Stonington, IL 62567, or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105.

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

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

Verna I. Davis of Bulpitt, IL passed away at home on June 10^th, 2023 surrounded by family. She was born February 12, 1937, the daughter of Ines Irene and Dee Riley and Marjorie Riley. She graduated from Pleasant Plains High School.

She married the love of her life, Rae C. Davis Sr. on November 30, 1957, he survives her. 

Mrs. Davis worked at Franklin Life Insurance Company before raising her family.  After her children were raised, she returned to work at St. Vincent Memorial Hospital as a CNA doing what she does best, caring for others.

She is survived by her husband, sons Rae Davis Jr (Ann), Darrell Davis (Denise), daughters Cindy Mills (Mike), Tracie Riggs (Matt).  Grandchildren: Tanya Glover (Michael), Kendy Mayes (Jason), Amanda Davis Thomas, Jennifer Love (Nick), Eric Davis (Kasey), Jessica Brown (Greg), Coady Davis (Renae), Matthew Riggs (Lynnette).  Great grandchildren: Dane Glover, Keely Westenhaver, Topanga Mayes, Ryder Mayes, Henry Davis, Harrison Davis, Benton Davis, Dean Davis, Maryn Love.  Cousins Wanda Riley and Louise Diefenback, sisters Sandra Clemmons (Eddie), Beverly High (Ralph) and several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, son Kenneth Allen Davis, brother Millard Riley, great granddaughter Alyse Davis, her favorite Aunts Lourria Riley and Dempsey Thompson, dear friend and cousin Aray Rohdmann.

Verna enjoyed taking care of and spending time with her family, working in the garden and growing flowers. She will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved her.

Visitation will be from 11 AM to 12:30 Saturday, June 17, with funeral services to follow at Mastersons Funeral Home in Kincaid.  Burial will take place in Oak Hill Cemetery, Taylorville.  Condolences may also be left at mastersonfh.com 

Naomi Marie Brown, 46 of Taylorville, passed away at 7:20a.m. on Saturday, June 10, 2023 at Springfield Memorial Hospital.  She was born on July 14, 1976 in Taylorville, the daughter of Douglas M. and Rosemarie (Brown) Kounse.  Naomi enjoyed playing bingo, loved spending time with her family, and her faithful cat, Blondie. 

She is survived by her sister: Mandy Burke (Traviss) of Taylorville; nieces and nephew: Brooke Burke, Traviss Burke, and Cloe Burke; aunts and uncles: Linda Ackerman (Leroy) of Taylorville, Herman Brown (Stephanie) of Langleyville, Karen Miller (Dale) of Nokomis, David Brown (Debbie) of Kershaw, South Carolina, Dave Barber of Springfield, Rhonda Brown of Tovey, and Skeeter Ward of Marston North Carolina; companion: Timothy Christian of Taylorville; several cousins; and caretaker: Patti Delehunt.  She was preceded in death by her parents; brother: Derrick Kounse; infant siblings: Karin, Christopher, and Herman; grandparents: Herman and Marilyn Brown and Dale and Sharon Kounse; aunts and uncles: Barbara and Jim Barringer, Carol Sue Barber, John Brown, Mary Ward, and Patricia Rozplochowski.

Naomi will be cremated, and a graveside service will take place at 3pm on Wednesday, June 14, 2023 at the Calvary Cemetery in Pawnee.  McClure Funeral Home and Cremation Services in Taylorville is assisting the family with arrangements.  Memories of Naomi, or condolences to her family, may be left online at www.mcclurefuneralhome.com.

Michael Anthony “Tony” Kersey, 67 of Taylorville, passed away on Saturday, June 10, 2023 in his home.  He was born on April 15, 1956 in Mattoon, the son of Roscoe Meredith and Virginia Kathryn (Byus) Kersey.  He married LeAnn Lowrance on August 11, 1979 in Owaneco.  He graduated from Mattoon High School in 1975, and from Lake Land College in 1977.  Tony retired from the Illinois Secretary of State Capital Police on January 1, 2019 following 40 years of service.  He was a member of the Owaneco United Methodist Church, Bromwell Masonic Lodge #451 in Assumption, and the Taylorville Moose Lodge #1516.  He enjoyed fishing, gardening, and mushroom hunting for hen of the woods and morels. 

He is survived by his wife: LeAnn Kersey of Taylorville; children: Nicole “Niki” Michelle LeAnn Kersey (David Papp) of Chatham, William “Will” Jon Michael Kersey of New York, New York, and Gwen Katheryn Aliese Kersey (Brad Williams) of Taylorville; granddaughter: Kennedi Michelle LeAnn Papp of Chatham; brother: Clarence David Kersey of Mattoon; sister: Judy Canupp (Terry) of Washington, Missouri; sister-in-law: Jane Oberbroeckling (Rick) of Dubuque, Iowa, nieces, nephews, and their grandchildren: Kris & Stacey Kersey, Karl & Rebecca Kersey, Kory Kersey, Kelly Standish (Jim), Mary Kersey (Kat), Tim Kersey (Charity) Kathryn Scheel (Jeff), Laura Desmond (Rich), Mara Bertinetti, Terri Lowrance, Bill Lowrance (Cari), Kevin Oberbroeckling (Chris), Korbi Oberbroeckling, Tricia Lowrance, Traci Ater (Todd), Bruce “Dell” Lowe, JoAnn Reilly (Chris), Larry Hartnell, Darren Hartnell, Gina Ritchie (Josh); and special cousins: Jack and Julia Donley, Ken Kersey, and Kevin Kersey.  He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers: Meredith “Bud” Kersey (Ruby), Thomas E. Kersey (Susan); sisters: Virginia Suzanne “Suzi” Wright, and Anita Kersey in infancy; brothers and sisters-in-law: Erron Lowrance, Jerry Lowrance (Sandi), Jon Lowrance, and Lisa Hartnell (Darrell).

A memorial service for Tony will take place at 11:00a.m. on Saturday, June 17, 2023 at the Owaneco United Methodist Church with Pastor Randy Burwell officiating and Don Tucker assisting.  Visitation will take place one hour prior to the service on Saturday.  Inurnment will be in the Fraley Cemetery, Taylorville.  Memorial donations may be made to the Owaneco United Methodist Church or the SIU School of Medicine, Simmons Cancer Institute for Glioblastoma research.  McClure Funeral Home and Cremation Services in Taylorville is assisting the family with arrangements.  

Jennifer Renea Richardson, 42 of Decatur passed away on Friday, June 10, 2023, at 5:30 p.m. at Decatur Memorial Hospital in Decatur, IL. She was born on September 16, 1980, in Decatur, IL, the daughter of Paul Brozio and Janell (Sloan) Clayton. She married Corey Richardson on August 19, 2010, in Decatur, IL. Jennifer loved cooking and playing bingo.   

She is survived by her husband: Corey Richardson of Decatur, IL; parents: Paul Brozio and special friend Gina of Decatur, IL and Janell (James) Clayton of Decatur, IL; Son: Keavis Brozio of Decatur, IL; Brother: Jeremy (Amanda) Brozio of Owaneco, IL; several nieces, nephews, aunts uncles and cousins. She was preceded in death by her grandparents: Wayne and Pearl Sloan, Don and Elaine Brozio, Shirley Brozio, stepmother: Diane Brozio, uncle Larry Sloan, aunt Louise Sloan and Cousin James Sloan.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, June 15, 2023, from 5:00-7:00 p.m. at Sutton Memorial Home in Taylorville, IL. Funeral service will be held on Friday, June 16, 2023 at 11:00 a.m. at Sutton Memorial Home in Taylorville. Burial will be in Owaneco Cemetery in Owaneco, IL.

Memorials may be made to Sutton Memorial Home to assist the family with expenses.

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

Please sign our online guest book at suttonmemorialhome.com

Kandi A. Black, 50, of Harmony, MN, formerly of Taylorville, passed away unexpectedly on Monday, June 5, 2023, at her residence.

Kandi was born August 15, 1972, in Taylorville, the daughter of John M. Duron and Patty Jo Hamel.  She married Christopher Black on March 22, 2011 in Sangamon County.

Kandi graduated from Taylorville High School with the Class of 1989 and went on to work as a medical transcriptionist, most recently for the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, MN. She previously had worked for Taylorville Memorial Hospital, Springfield Clinic, and Blue Cross Blue Shield before relocating to Harmony.  Kandi was proud of her career and all she achieved in the field.

Kandi will be remembered as a caring, hardworking, and loving mother to her children. She enjoyed cooking, baking, sewing and a cold Diet Coke.   Kandi had a love for animals, from raising sheep at one time to most recently caring for her six chihuahuas.  Kandi will be dearly missed by her many friends and family members.

She was preceded in death by her parents, and grandparents.

Kandi is survived by her son, Hunter Thomas of Conway, SC; daughters, Madison Thomas of Taylorville, and Carlee Black of Taylorville; and husband, Christopher of Pawnee.

 Visitation & Funeral Ceremony: The family will receive friends from 10:00-12:00 p.m. on Tuesday, June 13, 2023, at Shafer-Perfetti & Assalley Funeral Home, 202 W. Franklin Street, Taylorville, IL 62568.  The funeral ceremony will follow the visitation at 12:00 p.m. with Rev. Russ Birch officiating.

Cremation rites will be provided following ceremonies.

Memorial contributions may be made to a fund for the care of Kandi’s daughter, Carlee.

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

Gregg Alan Stephens, 64 of Taylorville passed away on Sunday June 4, 2023, at 5:20 p.m. at his home in Taylorville, IL. He was born on May 2, 1959, in Taylorville, IL the son of Robert C. Stephens and Virginia (Pyle) Smith-Hardin. He married Mary Hogge on November 1, 1976, in Tovey, IL.

He is survived by his wife: Mary Stephens of Taylorville, IL; children: Joshua (Debbie) Stephens of Taylorville, IL; Kyla (Brandon) Anthony of North Carolina; Jacob Stephens of Taylorville, IL; Lacey Stephens of Taylorville, IL; Lauren Suhre of Taylorville; Son-in-Law: Keith Ruyle, Daughter-in-Law: Katie Grundy; Mother-in-law: Jody Hogge; Father-in-law: Jerry Hogge; grandchildren: Levi, Logan, Lane and Landon Ruyle, Austin, Lucas, Alex, Dylan, Drake, Kessa and Libby Stephens; great-grandchildren Kynsleigh and Lincoln Ruyle; brother: Randy Stephens of Litchfield, IL; as well as sisters and brothers-in-law, and several nieces, nephews and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his parents; stepfather: Amos Smith; grandchildren: Sophia Stephens and Deagon Stephens; and his niece: Breanna Hogge.  

Gregg will be cremated and there will be no services.

Memorials may be made to Make a Wish Foundation or the Pancreatic Cancer Foundation.

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

Please sign our online guest book at suttonmemorialhome.com

Tom DeClerck, 72 of Stonington, IL, passed away on Monday, June 5, 2023, at his residence. He was born on August 15, 1950, in Taylorville, IL, the son of Charles Edward DeClerck and Dolores I. (Rentfrow) DeClerck. He married Tracy Bankson on September 10, 1969, and she survives.

Tom was a lifelong farmer of Stonington. He was a pioneer in the modified division as a tractor puller and loved nothing more than meeting new people and spending time with old friends. Tom was an extremely involved community member and looked for ways to support any way he could. He was a proud supporter of the FFA and Children’s Shriners Hospital. He was a member of the Christian County Fair Board, ITPA and NTPA. Along with his involvement locally, he was awarded the prestigious honor of being named a Kentucky Colonel.

He is survived by his wife: Tracy DeClerck of Stonington, IL; children: Trent (Wendy) DeClerck of Stonington, IL; Travis (L.E.) DeClerck of Frisco, CO; Treena (Kevin) Brown of Stonington, IL; grandchildren: Drew (Dallas) DeClerck; Lance DeClerck; Lacey DeClerck; Avery DeClerck; Olin DeClerck; Keaton Tucker; Dylan Brown; Tyler Brown; sister: Janet DeClerck of Taylorville, IL; sister-in-law: Marnie (Rick) Beebe of Wisconsin; niece: Charlee Kocurek of Taylorville, IL; nephew: Kyle (Jessica) Kocurek of Edinburg, IL; as well as many aunts, uncles, and cousins.

Tom was preceded in death by his parents: Charles and Dolores DeClerck; nephew: Stephen Kocurek Jr.; father-in-law: Robert Bankson; mother-in-law: Phyllis (Tom) Ponting; and his brother-in-law: Perry Bankson.

A visitation will be held on Thursday, June 8, 2023, from 2:00-5:00 p.m. at Sutton Memorial Home in Taylorville, IL. A funeral service will begin at 5:00 p.m. with Sister Rose McKeown officiating. Interment will follow at Ponting Cemetery in Stonington, IL.

Memorials in Tom’s honor may be made to Taylorville FFA or Shriners Hospital for Children.

Sutton Memorial Home is assisting the family with arrangements. Please sign our online guestbook at suttonmemorialhome.com

 James Michael Kuntzman, 50 of Mt. Auburn, passed away on Monday, June 5, 2023, in his home.  He was born on June 19, 1972, in Jacksonville, the son of Gary and JoAnn (Masulis) Kuntzman.  He married Brandi Bess on May 18, 2019, in Taylorville.  James worked as an applicator for Brandt in Niantic.  He enjoyed fishing and woodworking.  More than anything he loved spending time with his family and friends. 

He is survived by his wife: Brandi Kuntzman of Mt. Auburn; mother: JoAnn Kuntzman of Taylorville; children: Cody (Rachel) Kuntzman of Taylorville, Quentin Kuntzman of Rochester, and J.T. Kuntzman of Texas; step children: Morgan Miller (Jeremiah) and Tommie Miller; grandchildren: Parker Kuntzman, Ellie Kuntzman, Maddox Miller, and Khyson Miller; siblings: Steve (Amy) Kuntzman of Mt. Auburn, Chris Kuntzman of Taylorville, and Kelly (Zach) Green of Greenville, South Carolina; nieces and nephews: Lacey Kuntzman, Kyle Kuntzman, Karlee Kuntzman, Liam Green, Nolan Green, and Harper Green; and several aunts, uncles, and cousins.  He was preceded in death by his father and grandparents. 

A memorial service for James will take place at 1p.m. on Friday, June 9, 2023, at McClure Funeral Home in Taylorville with Pastor Becky Lembke officiating.  The visitation will be held from 11a.m. until 1p.m. on Friday at the funeral home and inurnment will be in the Fraley Cemetery in Taylorville.  The family will host a celebration of life for James beginning at 3p.m. on Saturday at Buzzard’s Roost in Mt. Auburn.  McClure Funeral Home and Cremation Services in Taylorville is assisting the family with arrangements.  

Allen C. Braune, 78, of Clarksdale, passed away on Friday, June 2, 2023, at his residence.

Allen was born February 21, 1945, in Dallas, TX, the son of Allen C.H. and Martha P. (Hicks) Braune. He worked as a correctional officer with the Nevada Department of Corrections until his retirement.  Allen then relocated to Clarksdale where he lived until his death.

He was preceded in death by his parents, sister, and companion, Belinda Sue “Bee” Sexson.

Allen is survived by his dear friends and Bee’s family, Michael Sexson and Diana George, Mickey and Bill Swedick, and Jerry and Tammy Sexson.

Cremation will be accorded, and Allen will be interred at Old Stonington Cemetery.

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

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

Mary Elizabeth Collier, 61 of Springfield, IL, passed away on June 1, 2023, at Barnes Jewish Hospital in St. Louis, MO. She was born on September 1, 1961, in Fairfield, IL to the late Bill and Carol Ford. She married her childhood sweetheart, Bob Collier, and they enjoyed 39 wonderful years together.

Mary graduated from Millikin University with a bachelor’s degree in accounting. Shortly after, she started her career with the Sangamon Paper Co. and was currently employed by the State of Illinois. She was a member of Taylorville First Christian Church, and her faith and trust were in the Lord! Mary lived for and loved her family and friends. Her only child, Robby, was the light of her life. She was known affectionately as “Muffin” by her granddaughter, Gabi. Mary blessed her family and friends with many happy memories and stories to share. She loved traveling with her husband, especially visiting Tennessee to see her family and attend reunions. Mary looked forward to family gatherings and sharing sips of coke with all her nieces and nephews. She loved taking photos of her family and has left them with a legacy of special memories. Her kindness touched many lives, and she will be missed dearly by all.

She is survived by her husband: Bob Collier; son: Robby Collier; granddaughter: Gabi Collier; sister and best friend: Dee Franz (Larry); and her stepmother: Linda Ford. Mary was preceded in death by her parents: Bill and Carol Ford; and her brother: Larry Ford. 

A visitation will be held on Wednesday, June 7, 2023, from 10:00-11:30 a.m. at Sutton Memorial Home in Taylorville, IL. A funeral service will begin at 11:30 a.m. with Pastor Dennis Metsker officiating. Interment will follow at Oak Hill Cemetery in Taylorville.

Memorials in Mary’s honor may be made to Gabi’s college fund.

Sutton Memorial Home is assisting the family with arrangements. 

Please sign our online guestbook at suttonmemorialhome.com

David “Pearl” Tucker, 72 of Taylorville, IL passed peacefully in his home surrounded by his loving family on May 31, 2023.   A private funeral mass will be held at at 11a.m. on Monday, June 12, 2023 at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Taylorville, IL with Fr. Piotr Kosk officiating.  A family visitation will take place one hour prior to the service on Monday.  A celebration of life will be held at a later date.  Pearl was born April 12, 1951 to Carl and Bernadine Tucker.  Pearl was known for his hard work ethic and worked at the Local Labor Union for 35 years.  Anyone who knew Pearl, knew he was a very proud father and Papa.  He treasured his time with his family, especially his beloved grandchildren.  In his free time, he loved to fish and play pool.  He is survived by his sons Josh (Keri) Tucker, Jeremy (Garnet) Tucker, and Jeff Tucker.  He is also survived by four grandchildren who he treasured: Maddie Tucker, Kaylen Tucker, Lizzie Tucker, and Joey Tucker and two brothers: Carl and Tom and four sisters: Kay, Pat, Hilda, and Kathy.  He was preceded in death by his mother, father, sister June, brother Orville, and nephews: Zackery “Zack” Tucker and Carl Eugene.  He was loved dearly and will be missed by many.