Bill Ray Owens passed away with family by his side at home on August 7, 2026, at 1:11 p.m. in Nokomis, IL.
Bill was born on June 17, 1951, in Pana, IL to Bernadine Owens Fulford and Charles E. Owens.
Bill Graduated from Pana High School in the Class of 1969. He served in the Illinois National Guard. He was a member of the Laborers Union. He was a member of the First Baptist Church of Nokomis, IL. He worked in road construction for 47 years for Borders Construction Company and Beniach Construction Company. 
Bill was an avid outdoorsman. He enjoyed teaching his kids and grandkids to hunt, fish and play baseball. He was a lifelong St. Louis Cardinals fan and enjoyed a good game of chess.
He is survived by his wife Joyce of 51 years, Sons: Tim (Laura) Owens of Herrick, IL; Joe Owens of Nokomis, Randy Owens of Nokomis, Daughter: Jodi German and Companion Scott Engelhart of Nokomis; Grandchildren: Amanda Owens, Cody (Kendra) Owens, Trintin Owens, Kristin (Cody) Rutledge, Landon German, and Levi German; Great-Grandchildren: Chase, Waylon, Karsen, Kasen, Kameren, Emersyn, Archie and Madeline; Brothers: Danny Owens of Assumption, Chuck Owens of Chatham; Sisters: Jackie Kay of Pana, Phyllis Rowden of Pana and Dixie Fox of Pana. He was preceded in death by his parents, sisters: Debbie Harston, Beverly Hayes, Marilyn Bock, Shirley Ruot, and Pat Lash; Brothers: Gary Owens, and David Owens and Great-Grandson: Hunter Thevenot. 
Visitation will be held on Tuesday, August 11, 2026, from 3:00-4:00 p.m. at Stiehl Dawson Funeral Home in Nokomis. Funeral service will be held immediately following the visitation starting at 4:00 p.m. at Stiehl Dawson Funeral Home with Pastors Ryan Follis and Larry Pearse officiating. Following the service Bill will be cremated and Inurnment will be held at a later date.
 The family requests casual attire be worn for the services, camo or St. Louis Cardinals was Bills favorite.
Memorials may be made to Quad County Hospice or Nokomis Athletic Club.
Stiehl-Dawson Funeral Home in Nokomis is assisting the family with arrangements. 

William Roger Rodden, 84, of Nokomis passed away on Friday, August 7, 2026, at 12:30 p.m. at his home in Nokomis. He was born on September 11, 1941, in Kincaid, IL, the son of Paul Joseph and Gertrude A. (Kader) Rodden. He married Elizabeth Ann Heldebrandt on July 29, 1961, in Springfield, IL and she preceded him in death on December 18, 2025. Bill loved woodworking, mowing and just doing any work outside. He also loved spending time with his family and was very strong in his faith, faithfully attending Mass.    

Bill is survived by his Daughters: Tammy Petty (Bill Page) of Nokomis, Debby (Tim) Chumley of Nokomis; Grandchildren: Kyra Petty, Tanner (Autumn) Chumley, and Emily (Kyle) Durbin; Great-grandchildren: Kadynn Petty, Layne Ishmael, Attlee Chumley, and Truett Chumley and Sisters: Joan Holler of Galesburg, IL; Evelyn Smith of Taylorville, IL and Karen Smothers of Kincaid, IL. He was preceded in death by his parents, wife, his son, Mike Rodden; grandson, Nick Petty and Brothers: Pete and Tom Rodden.

Visitation will be held on Tuesday, August 11, 2026, from 10:00-11:00 a.m. at Stiehl-Dawson Funeral Home in Nokomis, IL. Funeral service will be held immediately following the visitation starting at 11:00 a.m. at Stiehl-Dawson Funeral Home in Nokomis with Father Michael Meinhart officiating. Burial will be in Calvary Cemetery in Nokomis, IL.

Memorials may be made to St. Louis Catholic Church or St. Louis Catholic School.

Stiehl-Dawson Funeral Home in Nokomis is assisting the family with arrangements.

Virginia “Ginny” Louise (Van Hooser) Saltz, 83, of Caldwell, Idaho, passed away Friday, July 17th, 2026, at home, surrounded by her family.

 

Ginny was born to John P. and Katherine “Pat” V. (Shivers) Van Hooser on April 17th, 1943. Ginny was raised in Taylorville, Illinois and graduated from Taylorville High School, Class of 1961. Ginny married Virgil L. Saltz on July 29th,1961, in the First Baptist Church of Taylorville. There were four children born of their union, Cynthia (Ron) Graven of Caldwell, Idaho, Dolores (Kelvin) Henderson of St. Louis, Missouri, John (Erin) Saltz and Joanna Saltz of Caldwell, Idaho. She and Virgil were also blessed with 17 grandchildren and 8 great-grandchildren.

 

Ginny was preceded in death by her parents, sister-Dolores “Patty” Klaus, two brothers-James Edward “Ed” Van Hooser and Francis K. Van Hooser. A memorial is planned for August 15, 2026, at Meridian First Baptist Church, Meridian, Idaho.

 

Throughout the years, Ginny was instrumental in her husband's ministry. Family, friends and acquaintances remember her for her warmth, thoughtfulness, and the moments shared together. While she will be deeply missed, the influence she had on the lives around her remains. Loved ones will reflect on the time spent together. Ginny's memory will live on in the hearts of friends and family, a lasting reminder of the connections and experiences she brought to the world.

 

Memorials may be sent to Meridian First Baptist Church, 428 W. Pine, Meridian, Idaho, 83642. Arrangements have been entrusted to All Valley Cremation of Nampa, Idaho.

Rodger D. “Butch” Ryan, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather, and cherished friend, passed away peacefully on August 5, 2026, after a courageous battle with Lewy Body dementia.  He was born on April 2, 1943, in Decatur, the son of Joseph B. Ryan and Ivah C. Cazalet Holland. 

He leaves behind his loving family, including his wife Cindy, brother Terry (Lois) Ryan, his children: Michelle (Wade) Ehrhardt, Paula (David) Collier, Stefanie (Carrie) Ryan, and Derek (Aaron) Ryan, grandchildren: Lauren (Ryan) Gleason, Caitlin Parks, and Payton Tucker, step-children: Thad (Consuela) France, Lexi France Landers, and Misty (JB) Frye; step-grandchildren: Dylan France, Beau Landers, and Maverick Landers; step-great grandchild: Vera James France; sister-in-law: Nancy Ryan; and several nieces, nephews, and cousins. 

He was preceded in death by his parents; brother: Michael “Mick” Ryan; infant brother: Joseph Rex Ryan; infant sister: Sandra Ryan; infant grandson: Devyn Ehrhardt; and step-grandchild: RemiAnn Landers.

Butch’s educational journey took him from Brushy Branch School to St. Mary’s Catholic School, Cathedral in Springfield, and then to Taylorville High School where he graduated in 1961.  He spent his entire life working the land as a farmer and contributed to his community as a former Christian County Board member for several years.  Butch was also the proud owner of the Westside Tavern in Taylorville from 1995 until 2022.

An ardent sports fan, Butch’s fervor for the St. Louis Cardinals, St. Louis Blues, Chicago Bears, Notre Dame, and Fighting Illini was a constant.  Even as his health declined, he cherished his weekly breakfast gatherings with dear friends “Carp” and “Frankie J.”.

Butch will be cremated and a visitation will be held on Tuesday, August 11, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. until 12:00 p.m. at McClure Funeral Home in Taylorville.  A private family graveside service will be held at St. Mary’s Cemetery in Assumption.  In lieu of flowers, the family kindly suggests donations be made to Christian County Senior Citizens Center, a cause close to Butch’s heart.  McClure Funeral Home and Cremation Services in Taylorville is assisting the family with arrangements. 

Marilyn Kaye Beaty, 83 of Taylorville, formerly of Morrisonville, passed away on Sunday, August 2, 2026, at Taylorville Memorial Hospital.  She was born on June 28, 1943, in Decatur, the daughter of Arlie and Margaret (Goodrich) Bailey.  She married Lawrence “Speed” Beaty on June 21, 1969, in Decatur, and he preceded her in death on August 10, 2025.  Marilyn attended Brown's Business College before beginning a lifetime of hard work and service to others. She worked as a clerk for the Macon County Circuit Clerk's Office and later enjoyed a variety of occupations that allowed her to meet and connect with people. She sold Bittersweet Candles and later Scentsy, served as a life insurance representative for Foresters Financial, and worked as a product sampler at Kroger, where her friendly smile made her a familiar face to many. For many years, Marilyn also opened her home to children, lovingly babysitting as many as 10 to 12 at a time and caring for each as if they were her own. She found joy in crafts, especially ceramics and diamond art, and enjoyed relaxing with puzzles and word searches. She was a member of the Christian County Farm Bureau, served as a leader of the 4 Clovers 4-H Club, sharing her knowledge and encouragement with countless young people, and volunteered at the Taylorville Memorial Hospital Auxiliary gift shop. Marilyn loved gardening, camping, and traveling, and was an avid fan of the Illinois Fighting Illini and the St. Louis Cardinals. Above all, she treasured her family and friends and found her greatest happiness in spending time with them, especially cheering on her grandchildren at their many sporting events.

She is survived by her daughters: Kimberly (Phillip) Meyer of Springfield, IL; Kristina (Bill) Ray of Taylorville, IL; grandchildren: Bradley Meyer; Kyle (Anabella) Meyer; Tyler Ray, Jett Richards; Elle Richards; Bailey Meyer; Kailynn Ray; and brother: Wallace Bailey of Ellisville, Missouri.  She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, and brother: Gerald Bailey.

A funeral mass for Marilyn will take place at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, August 14, 2026, at St. Maurice Catholic Church with Fr. John Burnette officiating.  The visitation will be held on Thursday, August 13, 2026, from 4:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. with a prayer service at 3:45 p.m. and Friday from 9:45 a.m. until 10:45 a.m. at Assalley Funeral Home in Morrisonville.  Burial will take place at a later date at St. Maurice Cemetery.  Memorials may be made to Hickory Estates or Taylorville Memorial Hospital Foundation.  Assalley Funeral Home in Morrisonville is assisting the family with arrangements. 

Judith "Judi" Lee Harrold DeWerff, 81, of Nokomis, Illinois, passed away peacefully on Saturday, August 1, 2026, at 9:35 p.m. at Taylorville Care Center. 

Judi was born on June 26, 1945, in Taylorville, Illinois, the daughter of Russell and Mary Harrold. She graduated from Taylorville High School with the Class of 1963 before earning her bachelor’s degree in accounting from Eastern Illinois University. During her college years, she proudly played the flute in the marching band and served as a majorette.

Judi married the love of her life, Leland DeWerff, at First Methodist Church in Taylorville. Together they shared more than 60 wonderful years of marriage.

She spent her career as an accountant, working for several firms throughout the area before retiring from Christian County Mental Health.

Judi enjoyed spending time with her nieces, nephews, and their families. She and Leland loved gathering with friends and traveling to bowling tournaments with the team they sponsored. She was an avid reader and had a special place in her heart for animals, especially the many cats that she and Leland rescued over the years.

She is survived by her devoted husband of over 60 years, Leland DeWerff of Nokomis; many beloved nieces and nephews and their families, who brought her great joy throughout her life; her lifelong friend, De Heil; and her four beloved cats.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Russell and Mary Harrold, and her sister, Sherill Crivello.

Funeral services will be held at 12:00 p.m. on Thursday, August 6, 2026, at Stiehl-Dawson Funeral Home in Nokomis with Pastor Jim Ferrill officiating. Burial will follow at St. Paul's Cemetery in Nokomis.

Visitation will be held from 10:00 a.m. until 12:00 p.m. on Thursday, August 6, 2026, at Stiehl-Dawson Funeral Home in Nokomis.

Memorials are suggested to Christian County Animal Control or St. Paul's Lutheran Church in Nokomis.

Stiehl-Dawson Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements. 

Karen Sue Willer, 76, of Taylorville, Illinois, passed away Thursday, July 30, 2026, at Taylorville Care Center. She was born on September 8, 1949, in Taylorville, Illinois, to Norman and Edna Willer. She was a graduate of Taylorville High School and went on to receive her associate’s degree in nursing. She spent many years working as a Registered Nurse; dedicating her life to caring for others with compassion and professionalism.

Her faith was an important part of her life, and she was a devoted member of Trinity Lutheran Church. Karen also gave freely of her time through volunteer work with literacy programs, Shadow Home and other community services. She found great joy in reading, playing the flute, and studying language, interests that reflected her lifelong love of learning.

Karen is survived by her brother: Martin Willer (Rose); sister: Mary Louise Willer Drnjevic; and several nieces, nephews and cousins.  She was preceded in death by her parents; nephew: Vince Drnjevic; and brother-in-law: Francis Drnjevic Jr.

The funeral service will take place at 12:00 p.m. on Wednesday, August 5, 2026, at Trinity Lutheran Church in Taylorville with Pastor Rodney Blomquist officiating. A visitation will be held from 10:30 a.m until the time of the funeral at noon.  As per Karen’s request, cremation care will be provided following the funeral. A graveside interment is planned at Anderson Cemetery, for 11 a.m. on August 12, 2026, with Rev. Brian Johnston officiating. Memorials may be made to Shadow Home, 118 W. Franklin St., Taylorville, IL 62568.

McClure Funeral Home and Cremation Services is honored to be assisting the family with arrangements.

Judith Ann Johnson, 85 of Taylorville, passed away on Saturday, August 1, 2026, at Taylorville Skilled Nursing and Rehabilitation Center.  She was born on December 31, 1940, in Stonington, the daughter of Voltaire and Cymone (Besson) Jouglet.  She married Monroe Howard Johnson on June 24, 1978, and he preceded her in death on March 5, 2026.  Judy owned and operated Taylorville Salon of Beauty for 45 years and operated a beaty shop at St. Vincent Memorial Hospital.  She was also a homemaker, enjoyed cooking and helping her husband in the garden.

She is survived by her children: Diana Carlen of Albuquerque, New Mexico, Bill Johnson (Candy) of Taylorville, Gary Johnson (Gerry) of Gulf Shores, Alabama, and Robin Phillips (John) of Colorado Springs, Colorado; several grandchildren and great grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.  She was preceded in death by her parents; husband; and siblings: Eugene Jouglet, Olga Hemingway, Norma Kastelic, and Adolph Jouglet. 

A graveside service for Judy will take place at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, August 5, 2026, at Old Stonington Cemetery with Pastor Scott Parks officiating.  McClure Funeral Home and Cremation Services in Taylorville is assisting the family with arrangements. 

Lois JoAn Engeling, 90 of Taylorville, Illinois passed away July 30,2026 surrounded by family at Pana Health and Rehabilitation Center.  

A private family funeral mass with be held at St Mary’s Catholic Church in Taylorville, Illinois with Rev. John Burnette officiating. Burial will be in Oak Hill Cemetery, Taylorville. Memorials may be made to Taylorville Food Pantry and the Micro Food Pantry of St Mary's Catholic Church. 

Lois JoAn Engeling was born at home in Greenwood Township, Christian County, Illinois on March 6,1936, the daughter of John Frederick and Ora Ethel (Shafer) Engeling. 

JoAn attended grades 1-6 at Sasafras Country School, Taylorville Junior High School and graduated from Taylorville High School.  After graduation from High School JoAn got her first job at the age of 19 working at St Vincent Memorial Hospital in Taylorville delivering mail and flowers to the patients. She began taking courses in hospital accounting through University of Indiana. JoAn continued to work at St Vincent in different roles for 20 years eventually being promoted to Assistant Controller. In 1997 she accepted a job as Director of Finance for Barry Care Centers where she worked until she retired. Upon Retirement she went to work at the Taylorville Community Credit Union as a part-time Teller until her health declined. She met many people and made lots of friends while working at the TCCU for 17 years. 

JoAn was an amazingly strong woman of faith. She spent many hours in her aging years praying for her family and friends. She was a member of St Mary’s Catholic Church.

 She enjoyed spending time with family and friends, hours of jigsaw puzzles, crafts, Home Decorating, working in the yard with her flowers and traveling. She was a talented seamstress making many of her clothes. JoAn was very close to her many nieces and nephews. She spent lots of time with them and took them on many fun adventures while they were growing up. After the death of her sister, JoAn raised her nephew Bernie O’Brien from the age of 9 having co-guardianship with his father Joe O’Brien of Taylorville. 

Her favorite word was JOY 

                                           Jesus First

                                           Others Second

                                           Yourself last 

She strived to live her life like that every day.
 

JoAn is survived by her grandchildren: Maia, Jovin, Oliver, Matthew, and Castle O’Brien-forever their Grandma Boss, with their parents: Bernie and Jill O’Brien of Murfreesboro, TN.  Sister: Betty (Engeling) and Alfred Limper of Rochester, IL, Brother-in-law: Deon Young of Irving, IL, Sister-in-law: Janet (late Charles) Engeling of Morrisonville, IL, and Patty (Larry) Mollohan of Taylorville, IL, and several nieces and nephews. 

Heartfelt gratitude to Kim and Kent Beck and children of Commerce, GA for the exceptional love, care, and steadfast support given over the years.  Their quiet acts of kindness were beautiful witness to their faith and a blessing to JoAn. 

The family wishes to extend their deepest gratitude to Fr John Burnette for his spiritual guidance, prayers, and comfort during JoAn’s final weeks of life. Special thanks Quad County Hospice staff, Pana Health and Rehabilitation staff for their love and care in her final weeks of life. Thanks to the Help at Home staff Laura and Casey whose dedication and caring ways provided JoAn to be at her apartment as long as she could.

She was preceded in death by her parents, brothers John, Raymond and Charles, Sisters Wilma Young, Luralene Tarter and Eva O’ Brien. 

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