Angela Catherine Gonzales, 32 of Nashville, TN, passed away on October 27, 2023, at her residence. She was born on November 30, 1990, in Taylorville, IL, to Louis Joseph Meads and Marjorie Carol Wallace. On October 9, 2021, she married Joseph “Joey” Anthony Gonzales in Franklin, TN surrounded by their loving family and friends.

Angela graduated from Southern Illinois University of Carbondale with a bachelor’s degree and followed her passion for both music and recreational therapy to Nashville. Her love for music and songwriting was felt by all blessed to hear her beautiful gift. Angela also loved gardening, spending time outdoors, and cooking together with her husband. She was a loving wife, a beloved daughter and sister, an adoring aunt to her nieces and nephews whom she dearly loved and spoiled, and a friend to all.

She found deep joy in helping others and always inspired those around her. Angela will forever be remembered for the love, kindness, and empathy she showed anyone and everyone she met.

She is survived by her husband: Joey Gonzales of Nashville, TN; her mother: Marjorie Meads of Taylorville, IL; brothers: Matthew (Diane) Meads of Peoria, IL: David (Krissie) Meads of Taylorville, IL; sisters: Christina Meads of Springfield, IL; Abigail (Blake) Reuter of Missoula, MT; father-in-law: Keith (Susie) Gonzales and family of Sacramento, CA; nieces and nephews: Maximilian; Chiara; Peter; Camille; Claire; Greyson; and their beloved dog: Mowgli.

Angela was preceded in death by her father: Louis Meads; brother: Daniel Lee Meads; and Joey’s mother; Evangeline Gonzales.

A visitation will be held on Thursday, November 2, 2023, from 4:00-7:00 p.m. at Sutton Memorial Home in Taylorville. A Funeral Mass will be held on Friday, November 3, 2023, at 1:00 p.m. at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Taylorville with Fr. Piotr Kosk officiating. Interment will follow at Anderson Cemetery in Palmer, IL.

Angela’s family would like to invite everyone to a luncheon held afterwards at St. Mary's school cafeteria.

Memorials in Angela’s honor may be made to Joey Gonzales or to their Go Fund Me page at: https://www.gofundme.com/f/help-support-joey-gonzales-after-sudden-loss

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

Shirley Helen (Tebo) Pearson was born July 2, 1943, in Athens, New York in the Catskill Mountains to Rev. Lloyd and Helen (Carlson) Tebo, both deceased. Shirley is formerly of Stonington and Decatur, Illinois, and Plano, Texas. She accepted the Lord at an early age and was baptized by her dad in Osceola, Illinois. Shirley went to be with the Lord on October 27, 2023, at her home in Allen, Texas.

Shirley graduated from Stonington High School in 1961, where she played trumpet in the band and sang in the choir. Earlier in life she had learned to play the accordion. Shirley always enjoyed playing, singing, and listening to beautiful music. She also played the piano and organ at Old Stonington Baptist Church and sang in the choir there. Following graduation, she worked at the Mission Covenant Office in Chicago. She and her husband, Max M. Pearson, were married on July 25, 1964, and lived in Decatur, Illinois. At Decatur First Baptist she started and taught at the Children’s Development Center, as well as sang in the choir and ensembles, and played in the handbell choir. In 1980 Max and Shirley settled in Plano, Texas, where she was an active member of First Baptist Church of Plano. Shirley touched many lives through her service as a cook, choir member, handbell member, children’s choir director, children’s handbell director, and shut-in ministry. Shirley will always be remembered for her love of cooking delicious meals and her beautiful flowers.

Shirley was a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and sister who loved spending time with her family. She and her husband, Max loved traveling together, and traveled extensively throughout North America, Europe, and a mission trip to the central Asian country of Kyrgyzstan. Their adventures included Canadian fishing trips, an Alaskan cruise and dogsled excursion, and trips to Hawaii.

Besides her husband, Max, she is survived by her sons Steven C. (Samia) and Gregory A. Pearson, granddaughters, Julie Pearson (Dayton) Mercurio, Cathy and Beth Pearson, great grandchildren Stella and Sterling Mercurio, and sisters Beverly (Tebo) Bowns and Marilyn Tebo (Dennis) Willmert, and many nieces, nephews, and dear friends. Shirley has lived life to the fullest, thanks to her loving husband and their sons.

The visitation will be Tuesday, October 31 from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. at the Allen Family Funeral Options at 2112 West Springcreek Parkway in Plano, Texas. A Celebration of Life service will be held Wednesday, November 1, at 10:30 a.m. at the First Baptist Church of Plano located at 3665 West George Bush Highway, Plano, Texas 75075 with Dr. Jerry Carlisle officiating.

In Illinois, there will be a visitation on Sunday, November 5 from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m. at McClure Funeral Home located at 302 W. Poplar Street in Taylorville, Illinois. There will be a graveside service and burial at The Old Stonington Cemetery in Stonington, Illinois on November 6^th at 1:00 p.m. The Reverend Joel Lohr will preside.

Memorials may be made to the American Kidney Fund.

Mary Etta Smith, 84, of Taylorville, IL passed away on Friday, October 27^th at Taylorville Skilled Nursing and Rehabilitation. She was born September 14^th, 1939, in Taylorville, IL, the daughter of George and Alethea (Brisco) Sharp. She worked for St. Vincents Hospital for many years and later in life managed 1^st Class Liquors. She loved to garden and decorate her home, always thinking of new ideas for her next project.

Mary Etta was preceded in death by her husband: Herman (Dale) Smith, her parents, sisters: Betty Lou Johnson and Rebecca Melburn, and brother: Kelsey Sharp. She is survived by her son: Michael (wife, Susan) Nation of Taylorville, IL. Grandchildren: Tyler (wife, Amy) Nation and Sara Nation. Great-Granddaughter: Avery Nation. Sisters: Patricia (husband, the late Robert) Collins and Toni (husband, Michael) O’Bryan, and several nieces and nephews.

Visitation will be held on Friday, November 3^rd from 10:00 – 11:00 a.m. at Sutton Memorial Home in Taylorville, IL. Funeral service will be held following the visitation, starting at 11:00 a.m. at Sutton Memorial Home in Taylorville.

The family is grateful for the care that was given to Mary Etta by the nurses at Taylorville Skilled Nursing and Rehabilitation during her final years.

Memorials can be made to Taylorville FFA or Christian County YMCA.

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

Please sign our online guest book at suttonmemorialhome.com

Norma L. Doyle (nee Haines), 97 of Taylorville, IL, passed away October 26, 2023, at her residence, in the company of her family. Norma was born on August 25, 1926, in Taylorville, to the late Russell and Lela Haines.

She was a graduate of Taylorville High School, class of 1944. Following her graduation, she worked one year for the Illiopolis War Plant in the administrative building until 1945. She then was hired as a greeting card artist for the Sangamon Paper Company for 25 years. Norma was also hired by the Myers Brothers in Decatur to draw their advertisements from 1970-1971. She married Jack Doyle, a five-year veteran of the U.S. Navy, on June 26, 1948. She and her husband were involved in the Right to Life Foundation for many years. Norma was fortunate enough to work in her own studio at home while raising four children. She will be remembered for her artistic talents, her love for gardening, her kind heart, and for being a loving mother and grandmother.

Norma is survived by her daughters: Darcy (James) Humphrey of Taylorville, IL; Dana (Dirk) Wareham of Taylorville, IL; son: Danny Doyle of Springfield, IL; grandchildren: Shawna (John) Holsenback; Shannon (Gus) Hughes; James J. Humphrey; Maggie (Chris) Daniels; Lizzie (Steve) Humphrey; Ethan Humphrey; Roger (Ashley) Wareham; Paul Wareham; eleven great-grandchildren; two great-great-grandchildren; as well as several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents: Russell Haines and Lela Altman; husband: Jack Doyle; daughter: Daria Hughes; brother: Buddy Haines; one grandson: Jack Hughes; one great-grandson: Tyler Hughes; one great-great-grandchild; and her two aunts: Marguerite Haines and Dorothy Woodard.

A visitation will be held on Thursday, November 2, 2023, from 9:00-11:00 a.m. at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Taylorville. A Funeral Mass will begin at 11:00 a.m. with Fr. Piotr Kosk officiating. Interment will follow at Oak Hill Cemetery in Taylorville.

Memorials in Norma’s honor may be made to the Right to Life Foundation.

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

Kenneth “Kenny” Austin McCaslin, 79 of Owaneco, IL, passed away on October 26, 2023, at his residence. He was born on January 11, 1944, in Pana, IL, to the late Charles McCaslin and Eva (Sanders) McCaslin. On August 8, 2009, he married Vickie Minks in Taylorville, IL and she survives.

Kenny was the owner and operator of McCaslin Concrete Company. He loved hunting for morel mushrooms, and spending time with his family and friends.

He is survived by his wife: Vickie McCaslin; children: Tracy Meyer of Port Charlotte, FL; Deborah (Rick) Cruse of Morrisonville, IL: step-children: Kori Carman of Taylorville, IL; Kevin Carman and fiancé Katy Buhlig of Springfield, IL; grandchildren: Heather (Jason) Smith of Taylorville, IL; Brooke Wingler of Taylorville, IL; Kelly (Dennis) Crowder of Taylorville, IL; Christopher (Michelle) Cruse of Farmersville, IL: Crystal Hatley of Langleyville, IL; Rikki (Brandon) Parker of Taylorville, IL: several great-grandchildren; twin-brother: Keith McCaslin of Aurora, IL; sister: Vickie Latham of New Albany, MS; as well as several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents: Charles and Eva McCaslin; his first wife: Ella Mae McCaslin; several brothers and sisters and a great-granddaughter.

A visitation will be held on Monday, October 30, 2023, from 4:00-6:00 p.m. at Sutton Memorial Home in Taylorville, IL. A celebration of life service will be held at the First United Methodist Church in Taylorville at 10:00 a.m. on Tuesday, October 31, 2023. Pastor Becky Lembke will be officiating, and interment will follow at Owaneco Cemetery.

Memorials in Kenny’s honor may be made to the Ronald McDonald House or to First United Methodist Church in Taylorville.

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

Mrs. Nancy Jo Miloncus, 68, of Taylorville, Illinois, formerly of the Midland area,  passed from this life at 7:21 A.M. on October 21, 2023 at home.

She was born on July 13, 1955 in Dawson, Illinois the daughter of Ernest H. and Marjorie (Matthews) Webster.

Nancy married Paul Miloncus on June 12, 1976 at St. Mary’s Church in Taylorville, IL.

Nancy loved and enjoyed raising small animals and cherished her time spent with family.

Surviving are her husband Paul Miloncus of Taylorville, IL., a daughter Jeannie (husband Nelson) Hundley of Tovey, IL., a brother LeRoy Webster of Dawson, IL., along with a long time family friend Dale King and his children and several nieces and nephews.

Nancy was preceded in death by her parents and by a son Joel Miloncus on December 28 of 2000.

Private services have been held.  Burial will take place at a later date in Oak Hill Cemetery, Taylorville.  Masterson Funeral Home in Kincaid assisted with arrangements.  Please leave condolences at mastersonfh.com and they will be forwarded to her family.

Ms. Patricia Lynn Hill, 64 of Pawnee, formerly of Kincaid, IL passed from this life at 6:00 A.M. Sunday October 15, 2023 at Sunrise Manor, Virden, IL.

She was born in Springfield, IL the daughter of Lloyd and Louise (Marsango) Hanauer.  

Patricia was a family oriented person and a very proud Me-Maw.  She enjoyed crafts, music, her friends, many at Sunrise Manor and she loved playing BINGO.

Surviving are 3 children Holly Cox of Pawnee, IL, Edward Cox of Pawnee, IL, Brittany Hill of Taylorville, IL her former mother in law Joyce Cox of Pawnee, 5 grandchildren Benjamin Hill, Maddix Herbert, Reese Hill, Lucas Hill and Alix Cox. 

She was preceded in death by her parents and 2 brothers.

A Memorial Gathering / Visitation will be held from 6:00 P.M. to 7:00 P.M. Friday, October 27, 2023 at Masterson Funeral Home in Kincaid, IL.  A prayer service will follow at 7:00.

Memorials in loving memory of Patricia Lynn Hill are suggested to the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation - 13770 Noel Rd. - Suite 801889 - Dallas, TX. - 75380 

Donald R. (Skinner) Stephens Jr, 59 of Taylorville the son of Donald R. Sr. and Donna (Eggerman) Stephens of Taylorville, IL passed away in the arms of his wife while at Barnes Jewish Hospital in St. Louis, MO on Tuesday, October 24, 2023. Donnie was a graduate of Taylorville High School and Millikan University. In 1993 he married the love of his life Christine Adams and raised 3 amazing children.

Donnie is survived by his Wife: Chris, Daughters: Samantha (George) Seaver of Woodway, TX; Kryshna (Christian) Crowder of Tovey, IL and son Gunnar Stephens of Taylorville, IL. His true treasures were his 10 grandchildren: Gabrielle, Shannon, Caroline, Fallon and Calloway Seaver of Woodway, Texas, Braylin, Grey, Harper, Ember and Lilith Crowder of Tovey, IL; 7 nephews: Gatlin, Zac, Cody, Chase and Trey Crites, Teagan and Padene Wicks, 1 niece Kira (Wicks) Phillips; Sister: Dawn (Gregg) Crites and Mother: Donna Stephens. Donnie was preceded in death by his father: Don, Grandparents: Clifford Eggerman, Maxine Eggerman Brower, Alice Stroh Stephens Speagle, Duff Stephens, John Speagle.

A visitation will be held on Saturday, October 28, 2023, from 3-6 p.m. at Sutton Memorial Home in Taylorville. Funeral service will be immediately following the visitation starting at 6:00 p.m. at Sutton Memorial Home in Taylorville with Pastor Dennis Metsker officiating. Inurnment will be held at a later date.

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

Shirley Ruth Fisher, 93, of Mt. Auburn, passed away at 10:07 p.m. on Tuesday, October 24, 2023, at Decatur Memorial Hospital.

Shirley was born December 19, 1929, in Taylorville, the daughter of Ollie and Lucille (Kearns) Markwell. She married Robert Paul Fisher at the Mt. Auburn Methodist Church in 1957, and they enjoyed over 64 years of marriage.  Robert preceded her in death on August 25, 2021.

Shirley graduated from Mt. Auburn High School with the Class of 1949.  She cleaned houses, the bank, and mowed lawns for many families in the Mt. Auburn area.  Shirley also worked for Hardy’s fertilizer plant for several years.  She was a devoted mother and grandmother, and she was especially devoted to the Mt. Auburn United Methodist Church. Shirley had unwavering faith in her Lord, and she put him first in her life.  She donated her time and talent to the church as a Sunday School teacher and pianist for many years. Shirley loved the outdoors, and bird watching, cardinals being her favorite.  She was an excellent cook and continued to play the piano in her spare time.

She was also preceded in death by her parents; infant daughter, Judith Marie Fisher; son, Daniel Shafer; great grandson, Koty Cook; daughter-in-law, Tineal D. Fisher; and 5 sisters.

Shirley is survived by her son, Kenneth Fisher of Taylorville; daughters, Debra Fisher-Knowles of Mt. Auburn, Sandra (husband, Anthony) Gudausky of Harristown, and Michelle (husband, Michael) Abbott of Mechanicsburg; grandchildren, Christopher, David, and Shawn Fisher, Crystal Cook Young, Kent Cook, Jasmine Gregg, Melissa Carey, Ivy Knowles, Jennifer, Christina, and Jessica Stephens, and Alisha Abbott-Yoch; 25 great grandchildren; 2 great-great grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.

Visitation: The family will receive friends from 5:00-7:00 p.m. on Sunday, October 29, 2023, at Shafer-Perfetti & Assalley Funeral Home, 202 W. Franklin Street, Taylorville, IL 62568. 

Additional Visitation & Funeral Ceremony: The family will receive guests from 10:00-11:00 a.m. on Monday, October 30, 2023, at Shafer-Perfetti & Assalley Funeral Home. The funeral ceremony will follow at 11:00 a.m. with Pastor Cody Battefeld officiating.

Interment will follow the funeral ceremony at Mt. Auburn Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made to: Mt. Auburn United Methodist Church, 202 S. Elm Street, Mt. Auburn, IL 62547.

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

Todd Klay, 57 of Blue Mound, IL, passed away on October 24, 2023, at his residence. He was born on April 27, 1966, in Taylorville, IL to Vincent and Janet (Dunn) Klay. He was a farmer and active member of Taylorville Christian Church.

Todd is survived by his mother, Janet Klay of Blue Mound, IL. He was preceded in death by his father, Vincent Klay and grandparents, Rudolph and Vera Klay.

A visitation will be held on Friday, October 27, 2023, from 10:00-12:00 p.m. at Sutton Memorial Home in Taylorville, IL. A private graveside service will be held immediately following the visitation.

Memorials in Todd’s honor may be made to his family.

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

Kermit Alan Hutchison, 77 of Pana, passed away on Monday, October 16, 2023, in his home.  He was born on May 8, 1946, in Chicago, the son of Kermit L. and Evelyn (McKeighen) Hutchison.  He married Alice (St. John) McQuillan on April 8, 2002, in Glendale Arizona.  Alan worked as a computer programmer for many years and later as a security guard. 

In keeping with his wishes, Alan 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.  Memories of Alan, or condolences to his family, may be shared online at www.mcclurefuneralhome.com.

Charles Eddy Poor, 85 of Taylorville, passed away, surrounded by his family, on Sunday, October 22, 2023, at Taylorville Care Center.  He was born on February 1, 1938, in Taylorville, the son of Earl Edgar and Emily Jane (Kemp) Poor.  He married Mary Lou Atkinson on May 2, 1959, in Taylorville.  Eddy graduated from Taylorville High School in 1956 and served in the Air National Guard.  Eddy previously worked at My Store and as the assistant manager for A & P prior to becoming sexton of Oak Hill Cemetery in Taylorville where he retired after serving in that role for 17 years.  He was a member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church and a former member of the Lion’s Club.  He enjoyed fishing, bicycling, his dogs, and afternoon car rides to look for deer.  One of Eddy’s favorite treats was the delicious chocolate ice cream from Tastee Treet.  More than anything he adored his family, especially his grandchildren. 

He is survived by his wife: Mary Lou Poor of Taylorville; daughters: Cheryl Noller (Kevin) of Raymond and Carol Tomlin (Troy) of Auburn; and grandchildren: Holly Noller, Bethany Kmety (Matt), Megan Tomlin, and Hayden Tomlin.  He was preceded in death by his parents; infant son: Kenneth Edward Poor; and sister: Sr. Mary Bernadette Poor.

 A Funeral Mass for Eddy will take place at 11:00am on Thursday, October 26, 2023, at St Mary’s Catholic Church with Fr. Piotr Kosk officiating.  The visitation will be held from 5:00 until 7:00pm on Wednesday at McClure Funeral Home in Taylorville.  Burial will take place at Oak Hill Cemetery in Taylorville.  Memorials may be made to St. Mary’s Catholic Church or School, or Christian County Animal Control.  McClure Funeral Home and Cremation Services in Taylorville is assisting the family with arrangements.  Memories of Eddy, or condolences to the family, may be shared online at www.mcclurefuneralhome.com. 

Todd Bates, 56 of Taylorville, IL, passed away on October 19, 2023, at Springfield Memorial Hospital. He was born on July 14, 1967, in St. Louis, MO, to Jim Bates and Marsha (McDonald) Bates. He married Kathleen Stewart on February 18, 1994, in Taylorville, and she survives.

Todd worked for Prarieland Ag. Inc. for thirty-five years, and he became an owner in 2001. He was an avid fisherman and loved participating in fishing competitions at Sangchris Lake. He was an active member of the Sangchris Bass Club and enjoyed spending time with his family.

He is survived by his wife: Kathy Bates of Taylorville, IL; children: Brooke (Hunter) Freitag of Norway, MI; Judd Bates of Taylorville, IL: mother: Marsha Bates of Taylorville, IL; father-in-law: Kenneth Stewart of Illiopolis, IL; as well as many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

Todd was preceded in death by his father: Jim Bates; daughter: Marissa Bates; and his mother-in-law: Janet Stewart.

A visitation will be held on Monday, October 23, 2023, from 12:00-3:00p.m. at Sutton Memorial Home in Taylorville, IL. A funeral service will begin at 3:00p.m. with Pastor Gerald McPhillips officiating. Interment will follow at Old Stonington Cemetery in Stonington, IL.

Memorials in Todd’s honor may be made to the wishes of the family.

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

Bob “All World” Williams, 62, entered eternity peacefully on Friday, October 13, 2023, at Springfield Memorial Hospital.  Bob was born in Rockford, IL on October 31, 1960, to Don and Jean (Pierce) Williams. He was blessed with his sister Tari (Patrick) Butler; brother John Williams; niece Katie Williams; nephew Jack Williams; and Uncle Mike (Louise) Pierce. Bob was preceded in death by his soulmate Renee Yeates and his long-time friend Jeff “Bubba” Bell, along with other loved ones.

He graduated from Taylorville High School in 1978 where he was a member of the boys’ basketball team. He earned his bachelor’s degree at Illinois Wesleyan University where he was a much-loved member of the Tau Kappa Epsilon fraternity. Bob worked for the State of Illinois Comptroller’s Office where he was nearing retirement.

Bobby was a walking, talking encyclopedia of college and pro sports. He (mostly) enjoyed watching the Fighting Illini and Chicago Bears.  And he certainly had a unique gift for making those around him laugh. His sharp wit and friendly demeanor earned him much respect and many friends in all areas of his life.  

Please join his family and friends for A Celebration of World on Saturday, October 28, 2023, from 2p-6p at Burton’s Tap in Langleyville, IL. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Christian County Animal Shelter or to the Taylorville High School Sports Boosters. The THS Sports Boosters will accept donations at the Celebration of Life, or by mail at: Taylorville High School c/o Taylorville Sports Boosters, 815 W. Springfield Road, Taylorville, IL, 62568.  McClure Funeral Home and Cremation Services in Taylorville is assisting the family with arrangements.  Memories of Bob, or condolences to his family, may be shared online at www.mcclurefuneralhome.com.

C. Lynn Carroll, 72, of Oconee passed away on Monday, October 16, 2023, at his home.

Lynn was born December 19, 1950, in Fillmore, the son of Carmen and Iola Fern (Craig) Carroll. He graduated from Nokomis High School with the Class of 1969, and went to work for the railroad.  Lynn then went to Henkles-McCoy where he started his career as a telephone lineman.  After several years there, he gained employment with Custom Underground where he retired from in 2005 as a foreman.

Lynn married Sheila J. Pope at the Christian Church in Pana on May 18, 2002, and they enjoyed over 20 years of marriage.  He was a member of the Grace Baptist Church in Nokomis, and an active Eagle with the Pana Eagles Aerie #4109, where he served as treasurer.  Lynn would do anything to help anyone.  His sarcastic and witty personally always left a smile on his friends faces. Lynn was an avid camper, hunter, and fisherman, but his greatest joy were his grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents; daughter, Misty Carver; brothers, Cecil, Jim, Charles, Rex, and Russell Carroll; and sisters, Imogene Foster, Ruth Hadley, Mary Ann Carroll, and Sandy Gaskin.

Lynn is survived by his wife, Sheila J. Carroll of Oconee; children, Michelle Carroll of Cheyenne, WY, Andrea (Jeremy) Kessler of Salina, OH, Damon Carver of Tennessee, Derek (Courtney) Carver of Bowling Green, KY, and Lacey (James) Wilson of Warrenton, MO; grandchildren, Marah Carroll, Molly Carroll, Coalton Hill, Maddee Hill, Aiyanna Grant, Kaitlynn Wilson, Landon Wilson, Logan Wilson, Celee Carver, and Rylan Carver; great grandchildren, Clementine Grant, Octavia Grant, and Mary Lou Carroll; siblings, Lawanda Anderson of Hillsboro, and Edward Carroll of Indiana; and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Visitation & Funeral Ceremony: The family will receive friends from 10:00-12:00 p.m. on Saturday, October 21, 2023, at Stiehl-Dawson Funeral Home, 200 E. State Street, Nokomis, IL 62075.  At 12:00 p.m. the Eagles Aerie #4109 will provide funeral rites, followed by Pastor Chris Huff officiating. 

Interment will follow the ceremony at Tower Hill Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made to: Eagles Aerie #4109, 186 US-51, Pana, IL 62557.

Please visit www.stiehldawsonfh.com to share memories of Lynn, or to offer condolences to the family.

Gene Autry Durbin, 84 of Taylorville, IL, passed away on October 15, 2023, at his son’s residence in Morrisonville. He was born on January 26, 1939, in Palmer, IL, to the late Merle V. Durbin and Daisy L. Skinner. He married Carolyn J. Durbin on February 21, 1959, in Taylorville, IL, and they spent many happy years together before she preceded him in death on December 8, 2012.

Gene worked as a truck driver for many years until his retirement. He loved spending time with his family.

Gene is survived by his children: Sharon Travis and companion Jim Sullivan of Taylorville, IL; Tom (Tonya) Durbin of Morrisonville, IL; Bo (Joy) Durbin of Taylorville, IL; nine grandchildren; eleven great-grandchildren; one great-great-grandchild; as well as many nieces, nephews, and cousins. Special thanks to Gene’s nephew, Mike McGrew, for taking his uncle out to breakfast and making him feel loved and cared for.

He was preceded in death by his parents: Merle and Daisy Durbin; his wife: Carolyn Durbin; and his infant sister, Shirley Durbin.

A graveside service will be held on Wednesday, October 18, 2023, at 1:00p.m. at Anderson Cemetery in Palmer, IL. Pastor Ted Chapman will be officiating.

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

David Lawrence McDonald (”Mr. Mac” to his students), 95 of Taylorville, passed away in his home at 8:28 p.m. on Friday, October 13, 2023.  He was born July 9, 1928, to Charles Joseph and Gertrude Helen (Lamar) McDonald on the family farm five miles south of Hardin, Illinois, where he remained until he stayed with his mother in Wood River, Illinois during the World War 2 years.  His mother was working in a munition plant, and David discovered a love of industrial arts at the local high school.  He then continued his education at Illinois State Normal University and graduated in 1951 with the understanding that he would succeed his high school industrial arts teacher who was planning retirement. Eventually, David would return to receive his Master’s degree at his Alma Mater, but he never taught at Wood River as initially planned.  His career as a teacher was put on hold while he served as a member of the United States Marine Corp during the Korean War.  On February 6,1954, he married Dorothy Patricia (Pat) Donahue in Cullom, Illinois, a union that would eventually give them seven children to which was added a pair of teenage cousins to complete the family.  His career as a teacher finally began in 1955 in Beardstown, Illinois, and continued in Taylorville beginning in 1963, where his teaching efforts were officially recognized with his selection as the Illinois Industrial Arts “Teacher of the Year” in 1975. At that point in his life came a hiatus from teaching for over twenty years, during which time he worked at Peabody Mine #10 as a safety instructor and printed for them a popular newsletter titled The Underground until the closing of the mine.  Not long after beginning a printing business (The Ink Spot), he found himself back in the classroom. A part time position in Pana soon turned into a full time position. While teaching in Pana, he took over the school newspaper and had the students doing all of the writing, the layout, and the printing completely in-house.

            David was an active member of St. Mary Catholic Church in Taylorville, where he served as a eucharistic minister and a choir member, and for a time supervised the youths who printed the weekly bulletins. For many years he printed T-shirts and made homemade ice cream for the children participating in Vacation Bible School at St. Patrick’s in Pana.  He also printed shirts for local preschools.  He was a life member of both the K of C and the NEA, and a longtime member of Moose Lodge #1516, but most important to him was family, and he loved going on outings and working on projects with his children, always adding to the fun with an obvious joie de vivre. At one point, St. Mary’s parish recognized him as their “Father of the Year.”

            He is survived by his wife: Pat McDonald of Taylorville; children: Jean Ann McDonald of Edinburg, Christopher Thomas (Elizabeth) McDonald of Urbana, Charles James (Paula) McDonald of Lake Charles, Louisiana, Mary Michele “Mickey” (Frank) Emerson of Taylorville, Patricia Jo (Robert) Ruckstuhl of New Berry, Ohio, Kathleen Marie (David) Johnson of Owings Maryland, David Vincent McDonald of Taylorville, Karen (Don) Mills of Taylorville, and Diana Damarin of Taylorville; grandchildren: Christopher Giles McDonald, Gregory Michael (Magdalena) McDonald, Franklin Thad (Kayla) Emerson, Brian (Courtney) McCain, Jennifer (Adam) Swann, Sarah (Luis) Negroni, John (Jeni) Damarin, and Brandon Mills; great grandchildren: Alphie McDonald, Cecilia McDonald, Issac McDonald, Kolbe McDonald, Max McDonald, Otto McDonald, Elizabeth Emerson, Frankie Emerson, Ruthie McCain, Sophia McCain, William Swann, Henry Swann, Hazel Swann, Chris Olivier, Chance Negroni, Brittany Ervin, James Wynn, Alayjah Negroni, Kyla Thomas, and Josiah Negroni; and several nieces and nephews.  He was preceded in death by his parents; grandchildren: Christine Emerson, Katlyn Emerson, and Stephanie Emerson; and siblings: Charles Joseph McDonald, James Viator McDonald, Paul Thomas McDonald, Mary Elizabeth Schneider, and an infant sister.   

            Mr. McDonald chose to donate his body to scientific research.  A memorial mass will be celebrated at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, November 10, 2023, at St. Mary Catholic Church in Taylorville with Fr. Piotr Kosk officiating.  The visitation will take place at 9:30 prior to the mass in the church.  Memorial donations may be made to the McDonald Family to be shared among charities that are special to the family.  McClure Funeral Home and Cremation Services in Taylorville is assisting the family with arrangements.  Memories of David, or condolences to the family, may be shared online at www.mcclurefuneralhome.com. 

Bruce D. Robinson, formerly of Taylorville, passed away on Sunday, October 1, 2023, at Carriage Crossing Senior Living in Rochester.  He was born on October 24, 1943, in Libertyville, the son of Dorris and Marjorie (Kane) Robinson.  He married Susan Kirkpatrick on December 27, 1966, in Peoria.  Bruce graduated from Stonington High School where he competed in athletics and was active in 4H and FFA.  He attended the University of Illinois where he majored in Agriculture Economics, with a minor in Aviation, while also working as a farm manager.  At the U of I, Bruce was a member of the Farmhouse Fraternity and met the love of his life Susan at a fraternity exchange with 4H House. 

Bruce was a member of the Army ROTC and following college he served in the U.S. Army between 1966 and 1969, achieving the rank of Captain.  He served in Vietnam between 1967 and 1969 as a helicopter pilot, acting as a gunship platoon commander and company operations officer in an assault helicopter company.  He received numerous awards, including air medals, air medals with a V for valor, and a Bronze Star for valor while under enemy fire.  He then continued to serve his country in the Army Reserves for several years.

Following his time in the service, Bruce returned home to the farm as the 4^th generation of his family to do so.  After retirement from day-to-day operations of the farm, he stayed fully engaged and active in the business side of the operation, and even if he might have struggled to figure out all the features of his iPhone, he was always knowledgeable and forward looking when it came to technology in agriculture. 

Bruce loved to boat with his family, and a close-as-family crew of lakegoing friends, on Lake Taylorville, as well as many boating vacations to Bull Shoals Lake in Arkansas.  Bruce and Sue later traded out the ski boat for a more comfortable cruiser on the Mississippi and spent several great years on the river.  Deciding they wanted to see more of the country, they gave up the boat and traveled in a motor home for several years, eventually relocating full time to Florida. 

He is survived by his wife: Susan Robinson; sons: Roy Robinson of Stonington and Mike Robinson (Nicole) of Bolingbrook; grandchildren: Brooke Robinson and Parker Robinson; siblings: Ken Robinson (Susie) of Carbondale, Colorado, and Dr. Anne Robinson (Alex Thompson) of Ft. Collins, Colorado; as well as several nieces and nephews.

Bruce will be cremated, and no services are planned at this time.  Memorial donations in his memory may be made to CurePSP (www.psp.org).  McClure Funeral Home and Cremation Services in Taylorville is assisting the family with arrangements.  Memories of Bruce, or condolences to the family, may be shared online at www.mcclurefuneralhome.com.

Betty Lou McLean, 82 of Springfield, passed away on Friday, October 6, 2023, at Arcadia Care in Auburn.  She was born on July 3, 1941, in Taylorville, the daughter of Andrew Scott and Helen Margaret (Grimes) Miller.  She married David Patrick McLean Jr. on April 1, 1961, in Taylorville, and he preceded her in death on February 26, 2010.  Betty was a member of the Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses in Springfield. 

She is survived by her grandchildren: Megan Belcher (Colton) of Springfield and Kathleen Newhouse of Springfield; and siblings: Marilyn Barrett (Pat) of Taylorville and Susie Miller of Mendham, New Jersey.  She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, and daughters: Andrea Sue McLean and Sheryl McLean. 

Betty 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.  McClure Funeral Home and Cremation Services in Taylorville is assisting the family with arrangements.  Memories of Betty, or condolences to the family, may be shared online at www.mcclurefuneralhome.com.

Jack Herman Beaman, 90 of Taylorville, IL, peacefully passed away on October 6, 2023, at his residence. He was born on August 19, 1933, in Greenwood Township, to the late Miller R. Beaman and Mary Jerden. He married Earlene Sims on December 14, 1973, and they spent 48 happy years together before she preceded him in death.

Jack retired in 1994 after working 39 years with Hopper Paper Company/ Georgia Pacific. He proudly served in the United States Marine Corps during the Korean Conflict from 1951 until 1954. While serving in the Marine Corps, he served in the first Marine Division and was promoted to Sergeant. Jack was a lifetime member of VFW Post #4495 with 68 years of continuous membership. He was a past commander and served on the VFW Honor Guard for many years. Above all, he loved spending time with his family.

He is survived by his children: Terri (Kyle) Taylor of Effingham, IL; Mike (Veronica) Beaman of Taylorville, IL; Diane Bilyeu of Taylorville, IL; Jimmy Jones of Taylorville, IL; Leah (Dave) Bergner of Lampe, MO; Barry (Diane) Jones of Morrisonville, IL; Jeffrey (Maria) Jones of Grayslake, IL; grandchildren: Jaime (Joe) Joliff; Wendy (Clint) Matlock; Michael (Crystal) Beaman; Holly Beaman; Cari Bilyeu Hicks; MacKenzie Colonious; Jackie Beaman; Timmy Beaman; Jared Bergner; Rachel (Jason) Robison; Rebekah (Mike) Berger; Bridget (Brandon) Swailes; Zachary (Nicole) Jones; Elizabeth Cassidy; Ashley Jones; Hunter Jones; several great grandchildren; brother: Darrell (Beverly) Beaman; sister-in-law: Connie Beaman; and his brother-in-law: Richard Sims.

Jack was preceded in death by his parents; his wife Earlene; sister: Barbara Bauer and her husband Richard Bauer; brothers: Bill Beaman and his wife Linda Beaman; Dennis Beaman; son: Jack Beaman Jr.; daughter-in-law: Melissa Jones; grandson: Jason Earl Bilyeu; granddaughter: Darian Weis; sister-in-law: Rita Maschke; and brothers-in-law: Bill Sims; Larry Sims; and Robert Sims.

A visitation will be held on Wednesday, October 11, 2023, from 4:00-7:00 p.m. at Sutton Memorial Home in Taylorville, IL. A funeral service will be held on Thursday, October 12, 2023, at 10:00 a.m. at Sutton Memorial Home, to be officiated by Rev Tom Bellagante. Interment with military honors will follow at Fairview Cemetery.

Memorials in Jack’s honor may be made to the VFW Post #4495.

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

Neal Nichols Jr., 92 of Edinburg, passed away on October 4, 2023, at Springfield Memorial Hospital.  He was born on July 4, 1931, in rural Pawnee, the son of Neal Nichols Sr. and Pearl (Fugate) Nichols.  He married Ruth Mary Pope on August 6, 1955, in Corinth, Mississippi.  Neal attended Springfield Jr. College after enlisting in the U.S. Air Force where he proudly served his country during the Korean War.  Neal was a businessman, entrepreneur, and developer.  During his married life he sold feed for Morman Feed, worked as a machinist at Allis Chalmers and Borg Warner.  His hardworking personality led him to learn the plumbing trade and used those skills to develop trailer parks, carwashes and commercial buildings.  Neal also operated a commercial door business after working at Peabody Mine #10 as Mine Manager.  He had a love of sports and served as an official for fast pitch baseball for many years.  He was a passionate fan of the St. Louis Cardinals.  Playing cards was something he always liked to do with his friends, and it was often said that he was quick to take a nickel from his buddies.  He will be remembered for his outgoing personality as he never met a stranger, no matter where he traveled throughout the country, he could always run into someone he knew.  More than anything, Neal loved his family, especially his grandchildren and great-grandchildren whom he adored. 

He is survived by his wife: Ruth Mary Nichols of Edinburg; children: Marcia Wise (Dennis) of Auburn, Pam Sloman (Rick) of Girard, Sharon Conrath (Dan) of Clevland, Tennessee, Michelle Colonius (Richard) of Edinburg, and Jeff Nichols (Melissa) of Sullivan; grandchildren: Brent Wise (Leah), Kathryn Courtney (Evan), Elizabeth Keller (Brandon), Kelsey Dillon (Kyle), Kristin Hays (Taylor), Andrea Conrath, Brittney Shanks (Shelby), Eric Colonius (Chastity), Blake Colonius, Lauren Colonius, Clayton Nichols (Sydney), Nathan Nichols (Madison), Paige Patrick (Connor), Ryan Sloman (Sarah), Elena Hatfield (Brenden), and Collette Penaloza (Clayton Bone) Diana Downs, and Daniel Downs; 27 great grandchildren; brothers-in-law: Dwight Pope (Grace) of Mechanicsburg and Chuck Williams of Divernon; sister-in-law: Linda Pope of Taylorville; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.  He was preceded in death by his parents; siblings: Ernest Renfrow, Dorothy Baker, Frank Nichols, Jack Nichols, and Lucille Williams; grandson: Luke Sloman; and nieces: Patricia Trueblood and Barbie Baker.

Neal will be cremated, and a family graveside memorial service will take place at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, October 18, 2023, at the Bethany Cemetery in rural Kincaid with Pastor Evan Courtney officiating.  Veteran’s Honors will be presented by the Scott Air Force Base Honor Guard.  McClure Funeral Home and Cremation Services in Taylorville is assisting the family with arrangements. Memorial donations may be made to the Christian County Coal Mine Museum in his honor.  Memories of Neal, or condolences to his family, may be shared online at www.mcclurefuneralhome.com.   

Rhonda Emerson, 67 of Assumption, IL, passed away on October 3, 2023, at Springfield Memorial Hospital. She was born on November 26, 1955, in Taylorville, IL, to William Jones and Janet (German) Jones. She married Ron Emerson on January 21, 1977, in Taylorville and he survives.

Rhonda loved her husband and family. She loved getting her entire family together for holidays and family meals. She loved spending her time at the lake and pulling the tube behind the boat.   She loved decorating her house for Christmas so much that she had 2 rooms dedicated to it for storage. She loved her ranger rides. She especially loved our annual Easter kickball games. She was very organized with everything she did, down to her grocery lists for her Saturday morning shopping. She loved baking and trying new Pinterest recipes. Most of all, her time with her family was what she loved dearly. We will miss her until our last breaths.

Rhonda is survived by her husband: Ron Emerson of Assumption, IL; daughters: Autumn (Mike) Long of Taylorville, IL; Mandi Emerson and partner Brittany Hall of Taylorville, IL; Holli (Brian) Turner of Thompsonville, IL; grandchildren: Jonathan (Melanie) Turner; Alaina (Cody) Shockley; Kourtnee (Chase) Windell; Kinsey (Keith) Swigert; Kylie Campbell (Kenneth Alcala); Tanner Fathauer (Rosella Colbrook); Koby Long (Lexi Cisco); Kason Long; great-grandchildren: Kemery Jo, and new baby coming December, Kannon, Kale, Adalee, Landon, Amaya, Izsy, Anna, Gavin, and Wyatt; brothers: Greg Reber of Taylorville, IL; Bill (Lynn) Jones of Taylorville, IL; as well as several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her two sons, Ronnie and Aaron Emerson.

A visitation will be held on Friday, October 6, 2023, from 4:00-7:00 p.m. at Sutton Memorial Home in Taylorville. A funeral service will begin at 7:00 p.m. with Pastor Chad Foster officiating. Interment will be held at a later date.

Memorials in Rhonda’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.