Rita Joyce Talley, 91, of Mount Carmel, Illinois, passed away January 17, 2024, at her residence.

Services will be held Tuesday, January 23, 2024, at 11:00 a.m. in the Chapel of Short-Cunningham, with Pastor Freels officiating. A burial to follow at Highland Memorial Cemetery.

Visitation will be from 10:00 a.m. until time-of-service Tuesday, January 23, 2024.

Joyce was born to the late William and Myrtle (McClellan) Peach on May 13, 1932, in Gibson County, Indiana. She was married to Dwight Talley on October 3, 1951, in Lawrenceville, Illinois. Surviving is her son Kevin Dwight (Lori) Talley of Mount Carmel, Illinois, granddaughter Sarah (Glenn) Hager, son-in-law Charles Pixley, brother Gene (Alice) Peach, sister Linda Spencer, and great-grandson’s Hudson Hager and Brody Hager. She is preceded in death by her parents, daughter Christina Talley, great-granddaughter Zoe Hager, infant brother William Peach, brothers: Ronald Peach, Donald Peach, Larry Peach, and sisters: Edith Julian and Joann Hughes.

She was a member of the 1st Baptist Church in Mount Carmel, Illinois. Church was especially important to her, she loved her Sunday School class and working in the Food Pantry. Joyce enjoyed knitting, especially dish clothes. She loved caring for her yard, mowing, and tending to her flower garden, she even enjoyed pulling weeds. Joyce had a tender spot in her heart for the children at the Baptist Childrens Home.

Memorials can be made to the Baptist Childrens Home in Carmi, Illinois in lieu of flowers. Envelopes will be available at the service.

Condolences may be sent to www.short-cunninghamfh.com

Short-Cunningham Funeral Home is honored to serve Joyce’s family.