Samuel Palmer, 96

Samuel Palmer, 96, of Mount Carmel, Illinois, passed away on Wednesday, February 16, 2022, at Oakview Heights Continuous Care in Mount Carmel. He was born on March 13, 1925 in Chauncey, Illinois, the son of Samuel and Bessie (Shank) Palmer. Sam married Emily “Jane” Wilcox on January 29, 1946 in San Francisco, CA. They both loved to tell the story of them meeting on a Sunday and married on a Tuesday. Together they enjoyed seventy years of marriage before Jane’s passing on July 8, 2016.

Sam enlisted in the United States Navy on August 22, 1942 at the age of seventeen. His first assignment was on the USS Heywood where he would transport troops for the invasion of Attu. Abroad the USS Heywood, Sam also participated in the Battle of Leyte, Guadalcanal, Gilbert Islands and Luzon. During the Battle of Tarawa, Sam piloted a landing craft ferrying marines from ship to shore and also returning wounded soldiers to the ship. At the young age of eighteen, Sam was promoted to Motor Mechanic 1st Class. In 1942, he was assigned to the USS Vigilance as a mine sweeper and a destroyer escort. The ship patrolled the channel for submarines. The USS Vigilance was awarded many medals for their bravery and dedication to our Country.

Sam will be remembered as a loving husband father, grandfather and loyal friend to many. He and Jane worked as over the road truck drivers for North American Van Lines and Bekins Moving Company. They loved hitting the road together and looked forward to their next adventure. In 2012, Sam began working in the maintenance department at Wal-Mart where he enjoyed his work and the many friends he made. In his free time, Sam loved to bake many different kinds of cobblers and share with family and friends. He will be missed by his family and all who knew him.

Sam will be remembered by his children, John Palmer and wife Jackie of Albion, IL, Sam Palmer and wife Janice of Phoenix, AZ, and Terry Liddle of Salem, IL; grandchildren, Craig (Lisa) Liddle, Jole (Jane) Liddle, Nicholas (Brittany) Palmer, Lyndsay Palmer, Summer Milroy, and Samuel (Jandra) Palmer; great grandchildren, Gaven Liddle, Madison (Eli) Smith, Mallory Liddle, Drew Liddle, Alexander Palmer, Carson Spears, and Zachary Palmer; one great great granddaughter, Violet Palmer; two sisters, Carolyn Murphy, and Millie Thompson; many loved cousins, nieces and nephews. Sam was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Jane Palmer; three brothers, and two sisters.

A Graveside Service with Full Military Honors will be at 12:00 p.m., Saturday, February 26, 2022, at Highland Memorial Cemetery where Sam will be laid to rest next to his wife, Jane.

Keepes Funeral Home is serving the family with the arrangements. To view Sam’s

tribute wall, purchase flowers and leave condolences for the Palmer family, please visit www.keepesfuneralhome.com

Beverly K. “Bev” Watson 65

Beverly K. “Bev” Watson 65, of Mount Carmel, Illinois, passed away Sunday, February 13, 2022, at home, surrounded by her loving family. She was born on April 15, 1956, in Mount Carmel, the daughter of John Arthur, and Olive Helen (Belcher) Webber. She married Vernon Watson on June 29, 1974, and together they have enjoyed forty-seven years of marriage centered around their family.

Bev was a member of the Mount Carmel High School Graduating Class of 1974. Soon after graduation, she married the love of her life, Vernon. When their family started to grow, Bev devoted herself to being a stay-at-home mom until their boys started school. Through the years, she gained a variety of experience in the work force. She was in retail working at Target, a caretaker for the elderly, often cleaned for area businesses and in 2002 she earned an Associates Degree from Wabash Valley College. Most recently, Bev was the bookkeeping for her husband’s business. Most important to Bev was her family. She loved them all to the moon and back and helping to care for her grandchildren meant the world to her. Bev had a very bubbly personality with an infectious laugh and was a caring friend to many. She loved her Lord and Savior most of all and was a member of the Keensburg Christian Church. She will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

Bev leaves behind her loving husband, Vernon; sons, Travis Watson and wife Sabrina, Brian Watson, and wife Lacey; grandchildren, Paxton, Lennox, and Brixley Watson; one brother, Jon Webber and wife Lavonne; several nieces, nephews and cousins, along with many close friends.

Bev was preceded in death by her parents; one sister, Carol Ann Essington.

A Celebration of Life will be at 11:00 a.m., Saturday, February 26, 2022, at the Keensburg Christian Church in Keensburg, Illinois. No public Visitation will be held prior to the service.

Memorial Contributions may be made in Bev’s memory to Safe Haven Women’s Shelter. Envelopes will be available at the Church or may be mailed to Keepes Funeral Home, 1500 North Cherry St., Mt. Carmel, IL 62863.

Keepes Funeral Home is serving the family with the arrangements. To view Bev’s tribute wall, purchase flowers and leave condolences for the Webber family, please visit www.keepesfuneralhome.com

George Franklin Pilkington, 79

George Franklin Pilkington, 79, of Crossville, Illinois, passed away Saturday, February 12, 2022, at home. He was born on August 21, 1942, in Carmi, Illinois, the son of George F. and Bonnie F. (Gundling) Pilkington and was lovingly raised by Otto & Edna Mae Zehner. He married Cynthia Ann Cantrell and she preceded him in death.

George graduated from Crossville High School and faithfully served his country in the United States Army during the Vietnam War. He worked at B&W in Mount Vernon, Indiana, until his wife, Cynthia, needed him to take care of her full time during her illness. He lived his life by the saying, “The day of your birth and death aren’t important, it’s the dashes in between and what you do with them”. George filled his dashes up with love and kindness to everyone he met. He was a friend and good neighbor to everyone and was a staple to his little community out in the county at Warren Camp. He never turned anyone away and was always ready to help anyone. George kept all the boys in line but also was there to have fun with them. He was an animal lover and always took in all the strays. He treated them like royalty, cooking for them and taking them for car rides. Whether animal or human, everyone was welcome at George’s house. He will be greatly missed by all of his neighbors on the “hill”.

George leaves behind a sister, Maxine Hudson; several nieces, nephews and great nieces and nephews; his extended family, Marvin, Bonnie, and Orrin Whittler, whom George took under his wing after moving to the neighborhood. Orrin became like George’s adopted son, and they spent a lot of time together.

George was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Cynthia; siblings, Shirley Marks, Junior Pilkington, and an infant brother.

In keeping with George’s wishes, cremation will take place and a memorial service will be held at a later date.

Memorial contributions may be made in George’s memory to Carmi American Legion Post 224 or VFW Post 3851 and may be mailed to Keepes Funeral Home, 1500 North Cherry Street, Mount Carmel, IL 62863.

Keepes Funeral Home is serving the family with the arrangements. To view George’s tribute wall and leave condolences for the Pilkington family, please visit www.keepesfuneralhome.com

Stephen D. Bobbitt, 60

Stephen D. Bobbitt, 60, of Mt. Carmel, Illinois, passed away Sunday, February 13, 2022, at Encompass Health Deaconess Rehabilitation Hospital in Newburgh, Indiana.

 Steve was born May 1, 1961 in Mt. Carmel, the son of Lewis and Vivian (Mastaw) Bobbitt. He graduated from Mt. Carmel High School Class of 1979. He married Ilona Kalous November 18, 2005. They were married for sixteen years.

 Steve was a member of Grace Memorial Baptist Church. He worked as a custodian for District 348, was a member of VFW Auxiliary Post 4276 and a served the Veterans Honor Guard. Steve loved fishing and hunting with his father and children; helping people and cooking at the VFW.

 Those left to cherish Steve’s memory include his wife of sixteen years, Ilona; children Brandi (Arthur) Hall of Mt. Carmel, Sandy (Eric) Giffin of Mt. Carmel, Joshua Stephen (Naomi) Bobbitt of Altamont, Illinois; grandchildren, Ivy Rose, Gabriel Louis, Anna Fay Marie, Samuel Dennis; siblings, Sherry Bailey of Browns IL, Judy Maass (Carter Lear) of Nauvoo, Illinois, Rodger (Bonnie) Bobbitt of Browns, Illinois, Mike (Tonya) Bobbitt of Mt. Carmel, Eddie (Shirley) Bobbitt of Mt. Carmel, Myrna Gay Moffitt of Richland Hills, Texas; and several nieces and nephews.

 Steve was preceded in death by his parents; sister, Brenda Schmitt and brother Ronald Smith.

A Memorial Service will take place Saturday, February 26, 2022 at 1:00 p.m. at the VFW, 101 S Market, Mt. Carmel.

 Condolences may be made online at www.short-cunninghamfh.com

        Short-Cunningham Funeral Home is honored to serve the Bobbitt family.

Terry Stevenson, 74

Terry Stevenson, 74, of Mount Carmel, Illinois, passed away Friday, February 11, 2022, at Deaconess Midtown Hospital, surrounded by the love of his family.  He was born on January 29, 1948, in Pinkstaff, Illinois, the son of Lindsay and Deloris (Davis) Stevenson.  He married Debbie Young on February 24,1973, and together they have enjoyed forty-eight years of marriage.

 Terry graduated from Lawrenceville High School in 1966.  In January of 1967, he joined the US Air Force where he proudly earned the rank of Sergeant, serving as a Morse Intercept Operator during the Cold War in Germany.  He earned the National Defense Service Medal for his time serving in the 6910th Security Group.  Upon discharge, Terry attended Olney Central College where he met Debbie, the love of his life.  The two were married and attended Eastern Illinois University where Terry graduated with a Business Management Degree in 1975.  Terry worked as an Industrial Engineer for Champion Labs and later as a Packaging Engineer for twenty-five years.  After retirement, he volunteered at the West Salem Grade School a few hours each week in the computer room, helping Mrs. Giese’s class with computer exercises. Terry was a member of the Lick Prairie Christian Church where he enjoyed being part of the various ministries. 

In his pastime, Terry enjoyed watching sports of all kinds, football, basketball, and especially the St. Louis Cardinals baseball team.  He had a love for music and often searched for various music from Soul to Jazz, Country, and Gospel.  He loved it when he would find new street musicians.  Terry and Debbie loved taking beach vacations and later in life, any vacation they could take with their grandchildren.  Terry had a passion for writing, poetry, and photography.  He always enjoyed attending his grandkids school functions and sports.  He often got them involved in a good game of dominoes which he greatly enjoyed.  He loved his whole family and his grandchildren brought him great joy.  Terry was a special person with dry wit and humor that made people laugh often.  He will be dearly missed by all who knew him.

 Terry leaves behind his loving wife, Debbie; son, Nathan Stevenson, and wife Natalie; daughter, Lezlie Johnson and husband Mason; six grandchildren, Meagan, Madisyn, Kaci, Jayla, Drake, and Aubrey; sister, Linda Fellows, and husband Denny; several nieces and nephews.

 Terry was preceded in death by his parents; and one brother, Bob Stevenson.

 Family and friends are invited to gather for a Visitation from 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m., Wednesday, February 16, 2022, in the Chapel of Keepes Funeral Home. 

 Funeral Services will be 1:00 p.m., Wednesday, February 16, 2022, in the Chapel of Keepes Funeral Home with Pastor Steve Williamson officiating.  Burial will follow at Highland Memorial Cemetery with Full Military Honors.

 Per the family’s request, masks will be required.  Social distancing and use of hand sanitizer is recommended. 

 Memorial contributions may be made in Terry’s memory to The Tri-State Multiple Sclerosis, Inc., or the Lick Prairie Christian Church.  Envelopes will be at the funeral home or can be mailed to Keepes Funeral Home, 1500 North Cherry Street, Mount Carmel, IL 62863.

 Keepes Funeral Home is serving the family with the arrangements.  To view Terry’s tribute wall, purchase flowers and leave condolences for the Stevenson family, please visit www.keepesfuneralhome.com

Larry G. Hocking, 72

Larry G. Hocking, 72, of Mount Carmel, Illinois, passed away Wednesday, February 9, 2022, at Deaconess Midtown Hospital, surrounded by the love of his family.  He was born on May 17, 1949, in Princeton, Indiana, the son of Jack and Virginia (Humphrey) Hocking.  He married Carolyn Kroll on January 3, 1970, at the Zion Lutheran Church in Mount Carmel.  The two of them have been life partners for fifty-two years.   

 Larry was a member of the 1967 Graduating Class at Mount Carmel High School.  He went on to graduate from Wabash Valley College in 1969.  Having grown up in a farming family, Larry and Carolyn carried on that tradition with their own family as a third-generation farmer.  They later partnered with their sons, Todd, and Matt, to form a fourth-generation farming operation, Larry G. Hocking and Sons LLC.  They followed in Larry’s father’s footsteps with success in oil production with Hwy 3 Oil, which lead to the formation of Hocking Excavating.  Larry dearly loved farming with his sons.  In the spring, he loved the smell of the fresh dirt, and in the fall, he loved the smell of harvest.  Larry was a kind man, always willing to help those in need.   Through the years he was a mentor to many of the young farmers, some of which he had hired to help during the busy seasons on his own farm.  Larry was a lifelong resident of the Keensburg area.  He was involved in supporting the community through the Keensburg Community Club and was part of the Little Don’s Coffee Club at the Keensburg Cafe.  He enjoyed life to the fullest and was a lot of fun to spend time with.  His friends and family describe him as generous, always having a smile, and full of humor.  Larry and Carolyn loved traveling together, and with a group of their friends.  Some of their favorite trips were to Europe, Hawaii, and Jamaica.  Larry was an avid gun collector and enjoyed auto racing.  During his pastime, he liked watching western movies.   Larry was a member of the Wabash General Hospital Foundation Board, and a trustee of the Antioch Cemetery.  He belonged to the Keensburg Christian Church where he served as an Elder.  He loved his family, his church family, and the many friends he made over the years.  He will be sadly missed by all who knew him.

 Larry leaves behind his loving wife, Carolyn; sons, Todd Hocking and wife, Marlene, Matt Hocking and wife, Kelly; grandchildren, Emma, Eva, Greta, Brookelyn, Alex (fiancé Bekah Wall), Zach, Sam, and Lily Hocking; his twin sister, Sherry Kieffer, and husband Roger; sister-in-law, Connie Hocking; nieces and nephews, Susan (Tom) Sumner, Rodney (Diana) Kieffer, Kim (Darrell) Hoeszle; many loved great-nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

Larry was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Gary Hocking and nephew, Scott Hocking.

Family and friends are invited to gather for a Visitation from 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m., Monday, February 14, 2022, at Keensburg Christian Church in Keensburg, Illinois. 

Funeral Services will be 12:00 p.m., Monday, February 14, 2022, at Keensburg Christian Church with Pastor Allan Wright officiating.  Burial will follow at Antioch Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made in Larry’s memory to Keensburg Christian Church. 

Envelopes will be at the Church or can be mailed to Keepes Funeral Home, 1500 North Cherry Street, Mount Carmel, IL 62863.

Keepes Funeral Home is serving the family with the arrangements.  To view Larry’s tribute wall, purchase flowers and leave condolences for the Hocking family, please visit www.keepesfuneralhome.com

Fred Glen Linxwiler, 80

Fred Glen Linxwiler, 80, of Mount Carmel, Illinois, went to be with the Lord on Wednesday, February 9, 2022 at his residence with his loving family by his side.  He was born on December 28, 1941, the son of Glen and Alberta (Fewkes) Linxwiler.  Fred married Kay Diesher on June 29, 1962 and together they enjoyed fifty-nine years of marriage.

Fred will be remembered as a loving husband, father and grandfather.  He worked hard to provide for his family where he retired from Pacific Press & Shear in Mount Carmel.   In his younger days, Fred & his family attended Church of God where he served on the worship team.  He loved listening to and playing music.  Fred frequently played guitar and sang at area churches, nursing homes and family gatherings with his brother-in-law and sister-in-law, Donnie and Sandy Diesher, and Bev Harding.  Bringing joy to others through music brought great joy to him. Fred will be deeply missed by his family and all who knew him.

Fred will be remembered by his loving wife, Kay Linxwiler; two twin daughters, Sherry Stinson and husband, Tim and Sheila Rue and husband, Brad both of Mount Carmel; grandchildren, Michael (Erin) Stinson of Mount Carmel, Ashley (Daniel) Revivo of Miami, FL, Sarah (Kevin) Marchal of Princeton, IN, Blake (Taylor) Wood of Franklin, TN and Lindsay Wood of Nashville, TN; great grandchildren, Levi, Liam, Elliot, Alden, Parker, Cruz, Aria and Charlie; sister, Carole Bruce of CA; niece and nephew, Jeff Bruce and Kelly Brown.  Fred was preceded in death by his parents; and brother-in-law, Robert Bruce.

Funeral Services will be 2:00 p.m., Friday, February 11, 2022, at Heartland Worship Center with Pastor Tony Hodgson officiating.   Burial will follow at Highland Memorial Cemetery.  There will be no public Visitation prior to the Funeral Service.

Memorial contributions may be made in Fred’s memory to Heartland Worship Center.  Envelopes will be available at the Church or can be mailed to Keepes Funeral Home, 1500 N. Cherry Street, Mount Carmel, IL 62863.

Keepes Funeral Home is serving the family with the arrangements.  To view Fred’s tribute wall, leave condolences and purchase flowers for the Linxwiler family, please visit www.keepesfuneralhome.com

Janet Riggs, 60

Janet Riggs, 60, of Mount Carmel, Illinois, passed away on Tuesday, February 8th, 2022, at Meadowbrook Nursing Home in Grayville, Illinois. She was born on July 23, 1961 in Mount Carmel, daughter of Bill and Patricia (Brandebourg) Sharp. Janet married Rodney Riggs on November 24, 2006 in Mount Carmel and together they enjoyed fifteen years of marriage centered on their family.

Janet was a loving wife, mother and grandmother who treasured her family. She loved caring for others and that showed in her work as a CNA. In their free time, Janet and Rodney enjoyed loading up and going on day trips to new places. She was always proud of her yard and when she was able, she enjoyed being outdoors tending to her flower beds. Janet also enjoyed antiquing, crafting and creating new treasures for family and friends. Janet will be missed by her family and all who knew her.

Janet will be remembered by her husband, Rodney; two daughters, Mandy Snelling and husband, Christopher and Melody Jones of Mount Carmel; grandson, Logan Snelling; special niece whom Janet and Rodney cared for and loved, Bailey Randall and her daughter, Chrislynn whom Janet thought of as her granddaughter; brother, Scott Sharp of Mount Carmel; along with loved nieces.

Janet was preceded in death by her father; and sister, Tracy Boyd.

Family and friends may gather for a Visitation from 3:00 p.m.-4:30 p.m., Tuesday, February 15, 2022 in the Chapel of Keepes Funeral Home.

Social distancing, wearing of face coverings and use of hand sanitizer is recommended.

Keepes Funeral Home is serving the family with the arrangements. To view Janet’s tribute wall, leave condolences and purchase flowers for the Riggs family, please visit www.keepesfuneralhome.com

John Robert Summers

John Robert Summers passed peacefully on February 7, 2022 at Aperion Care in Bridgeport Illinois with his dedicated caretaker Brad Buchanan at his side.  John was born December 26, 1945 to Lawrence Summers and Nellie Hays Summers in Lawrence County, Illinois.  He graduated Bridgeport Township High School in the class of 1963. John lived most of his adult life in Orio, Illinois where he worked as a livestock caretaker for Shepard Farms.  Don Shepard was a dear and trusted friend to John.

John was preceded in death by his parents and his sister Linda Summers Parrish.  He is survived by several cousins including Brad and Jane Buchanan and friends.  John will be remembered as a character who loved animals and collecting.

A graveside service will be held at Centerville Cemetery on Thursday, February 10 at 11 am with John’s Pastor Kevin McGinnis officiating.  A memorial service will be planned at Orio at a later date.  Glasser Funeral Home assisted the family with arrangements.

On Line condolences may be sent to www.glasserfh.com

Glasser Funeral Home in trusted with arrangements.

Virginia Dare Dicus, 92

Virginia Dare Dicus, 92, of Mt. Carmel, Illinois, passed away Sunday, February 6, 2022, at Wabash General Hospital, surrounded by the love of her family.

She was born September 7, 1929, in Trenton, Tennessee, the daughter of Willie G. and Annice Estell (Jones) Goad. On November 12, 1949, she married Bobby J. Dicus in Edwards County, Illinois. He preceded her in death in 2021, after 71 years of marriage.

Virginia was a member of the Evangelical United Methodist Church. She was a homemaker, loving every moment she could spend with her family.

Left to cherish Virginia’s memory are her children, Gary Wayne (Patty) Dicus of Evansville, Indiana, Donald William (Mary Lou) Dicus of Mt. Carmel, Illinois, and Bryan J. (Cricket) Dicus of Carmi, Illinois; ten grandchildren Summer Bennett, Holly Dicus, April Bonenberger, Jacob Dicus, Aaron Simms, Abby Douglas, Rachel Simms, Katie Glenn, Amy Whitley and Andy Mullins; and eighteen great-grandchildren Myles Hawkins, Jackson, Samuel and Oliver Bennett, Dagan and Arian Bonenberger, Madeline, Caleb, Isaac and Andrew Douglas, Isaiah, Macy and Maya Glenn, Elijah, Ella and Elena Simms, Reagan and Reece Whitley; and many nieces and nephews.

Virginia was preceded in death by her parents; husband; and siblings, Jewell Hagen, Faye Crutcher, Joy Wilkinson, Jeanette Goad, Connie Henson, Vera Merrill, Sue Mitchell, Maxie, Kenneth, J.C., and Billy Goad.

The funeral service for Virginia will be held Friday, February 11, 2022, at 1:00 p.m. in the Chapel of Short Funeral Home, 527 N. Mulberry Street, Mt. Carmel, Illinois, with a visitation for family and friends beginning at 12:00 noon until the time of service. Burial will immediately follow at Allendale Cemetery.

COVID-19 precautions, wearing of face coverings, social distancing and use of hand sanitizer is recommended.

Memorials may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 262 Danny Thomas Place, Memphis, Tennessee 38105. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home.

Condolences may be made online at www.short-cunninghamfh.com

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

Kathy M. Prow, 68

Kathy M. Prow, 68, of Mount Carmel, Illinois, passed away Friday, February 4, 2022, at Wabash General Hospital, surrounded by the love of her family.  She was born on September 2, 1953, in Wabash County, Illinois, the daughter of Paul and Cloia “Juanita” (Campbell) Stiles.  She married Paul Prow in 1980 and he preceded her in death on July 12, 2014, after thirty-four years of marriage.

Kathy worked as a Registered Nurse at Gibson General Hospital for twenty-seven years.  She dearly loved caring for the patients who were entrusted to her care.  She taught classes in both CNA and QMA for several years.  Before the death of her husband, the two of them enjoyed being outdoors, hunting, fishing, and riding dirt bikes in the Shawnee Forest.  Kathy loved her family, and her grandbabies meant everything to her.  She was a kind and caring person who will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

Kathy leaves behind her children, Keisha (Shane) Willett of Mount Carmel, Brian Prow of Mount Carmel, and Beth Beasley of Fort Branch, IN; eight grandchildren, Kathryn, Domenic, Joshua Jacob, Jeremiah, Kiaya, Shanie Amiyah, Aaron and Lexus; one great-grandson due to arrive in July; two sisters, Sandy Allen, and Nancy (Zeb) Sutton, both of Mount Carmel; many loved nieces, nephews and cousins.

Kathy was preceded in death by her parents; husband; brother, Eugene Stiles and wife, Margaret; nephew, Joshua Paul Dooley. 

Family and friends may gather for a Visitation from 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m., Thursday, February 10, 2022, in the Chapel of Keepes Funeral Home. 

A Private Burial will take place at a later date at Highland Memorial Cemetery, where Kathy will be laid to rest beside her beloved husband.

Social distancing, wearing of face coverings and use of hand sanitizer is recommended. 

Memorial contributions may be made in Kathy’s memory to her family to help with final expenses. 

Keepes Funeral Home is serving the family with the arrangements.  To view Kathy’s tribute wall, leave condolences and purchase flowers for the Prow family, please visit www.keepesfuneralhome.com

Teresa Gail Whitten, 60

Teresa Gail Whitten, 60, of Mt. Carmel, Illinois, passed away Wednesday, February 2, 2022, at St. Vincent Hospital in Evansville, Indiana, surrounded by the love of her family.

 She was born June 25, 1961, in Lawrenceville, Illinois, the daughter of Ambris and Lura (Voyles) Oliver. She graduated from Allendale High School in 1980. On October 6, 2011, Teresa married Wayne Whitten in Mt. Carmel, Illinois.

Teresa worked fourteen years at Zachary Industrial as a payroll clerk. Prior to her employment there, she worked many years at Mt. Carmel Red and White and Buehler’s Buy-Low grocery stores. Teresa enjoyed antiquing, reading, flower gardening, collecting snowmen, and listening to Christian music.  Her greatest joy was spending time with her family, especially her grandchildren.

Left to cherish Teresa’s memory are her husband, Wayne; daughter, Emily (Tim) Haug of Mt. Carmel; stepdaughters, Carol (Toby) Brakie of Evansville, Indiana, and Kerri (Mike) Couts of Princeton, Indiana; grandchildren, Oliver, Daniel and Lura Haug; step grandchildren, Lynsay (Nick) Davis, Kendra Young, Steven Fields, and Myah Brakie; several step great grandchildren; a sister, Judy Oliver of Mt. Carmel, Illinois; sisters-in-law, Mary Hocking-Perkins of Seymore Indiana, Pat Hinterscher of Olney, Illinois, Joyce Whitten of Mt. Carmel, Illinois, Clara Whitten of Prestonsburg, Kentucky; brothers-in-law, Jim (Linda) Whitten of Mt. Carmel, Illinois, Gib Whitten of Mt. Carmel, Illinois, and Tom (Vineta) Whitten of Paradise, Texas.    

Teresa is preceded in death by her parents and an infant brother Darryl Oliver.

The Funeral Service for Teresa will be Monday, February 7, 2022, at 1:00 p.m. in the Chapel of Short Funeral Home, 527 N. Mulberry Street, Mt. Carmel, Illinois, with a visitation of family and friends prior to the service from 11:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m. Burial will follow the funeral service in Highland Memorial Cemetery, 1827 College Drive, Mt. Carmel, Illinois.

COVID-19 precautions, wearing of face coverings, social distancing and use of hand sanitizer is recommended.

Memorials may be made to the Bethlehem New Light Church, 3045 Sumner Road, Sumner, Illinois 62466. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home.

Condolences may be made online at www.short-cunninghamfh.com.

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

Carroll Hood, 76

Carroll A. Hood, 76, of Mount Carmel, Illinois, passed away Sunday, January 30, 2022, at St. Cloud Hospital in St. Cloud, Florida, surrounded by the love of his family. He was born on March 26, 1945, in Mount Carmel, the son of Angelo Edward Hood, Jr., and Audrey Lavange (Barnhart) Nash. He married Barbara Elder on September 14, 1963, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Mount Carmel and she survives.

Carroll faithfully served his county in the United States Air Force for twenty years as a Crew Chief. He then worked for the United States Postal Service for twenty years. He was a member of the VFW where he served as Commander for two years. Carroll was an avid gardener who was always experimenting with new ways to grow produce. To his family and friends, he was known as a researcher and documentarian. When he found a subject that interested him, he would spend hours doing research on the subject and documenting his findings. Carroll enjoyed fishing and he and Barbara loved spending the winters in Florida. He enjoyed gold mining in Alaska where they lived for nine years. Carroll was an active member of St. Sebastian Catholic Church where he and Barbara cooked the Mother’s Day and Father’s Day brunch. He loved his family dearly and gathering them all together for a family chowder was something he always looked forward to. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Carroll leaves behind his loving wife of fifty-eight years, Barbara; sons, Michael Hood and wife Melissa, Christopher Hood and wife Stephanie; daughter, Alicia Ratcliff and husband, John Giese; eleven grandchildren, Jessica (Gabriel) Anaya, Cole Rowan, Cici Rowan, Sarah (Alex) Hood, Andrew Hood, Trevor (Caitlin) Hood, Stacey Hood, Elizabeth Babcock, Angela (Chris) Johnson, Joshua Ratcliff, Lily Ann Ratcliff; five great grandchildren, Michael Anaya, Emberlyn Anaya, William Anaya, Brady Johnson, Everly Johnson; daughter-in-law, Chrissie Hood; brother, Kenneth Nash; sister, Mary Ellen (Ron) Lemon; many loved cousins, nieces and nephews.

Carroll was preceded in death by his parents; two sons, Jeffery, and Scott Hood; two daughters, Stacy, and Angela Hood.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be 11:30 a.m., Monday, February 7, 2022, at St. Sebastian Catholic Church with Father Robert Zwilling officiating. Burial will follow at St. Sebastian Cemetery with Full Military Honors.

Family and friends may gather for a Visitation from 10:00 a.m.-11:30 a.m., Monday, February 7, 2022, at St. Sebastian Catholic Church.

Social distancing, wearing of face coverings and use of hand sanitizer is recommended.

Memorial contributions may be made in Carroll’s memory to St. Mary’s Catholic School. Envelopes with be at the Church or may be mailed to Keepes Funeral Home, 1500 North Cherry St., Mt. Carmel, IL 62863.

Keepes Funeral Home is serving the family with the arrangements. To view Carroll’s tribute wall, leave condolences and purchase flowers for the Hood family, please visit www.keepesfuneralhome.com

Daniel Lee Hering, 75

Daniel Lee Hering, 75, of Mt. Carmel, Illinois passed away Thursday, January 27, 2022 at his residence surrounded by his family.

Dan was born April 21, 1946, in Browns, Illinois, the son of Lewis and Ethel Mary Ann (Bouvy) Hering. He graduated from Mt. Carmel High School Class of 1965. He married Ann Case October 14, 1968, at St. Mary’s Church in Mt. Carmel. They had fifty-three years together.

He served his county in the United States Army from 1966 to 1968. Dan retired from Pacific Press and Shear after 32 years as a machinist. Dan enjoyed fishing, building and flying model airplanes. He was a member of Prop-Busters 1321 Model Airplane Club.

Those left to cherish Dan’s memory include his wife, Ann; children Mark Daniel and wife, Shanon Hering, and their children Finley Hering and Lucus Keele of Mt. Carmel; daughter, Barbara Ann and Michael Monroe of Mayfield, Kansas and their ten children; brothers and sisters, Harold L. Hering of Indianapolis, Indiana, Mary Schrader of Mt. Carmel, Angela Jackson of Mt. Carmel, John Hering of Marion, Indiana, Mike Hering of Mt. Carmel, Emily Summers of Ohio, and Teresa Duncan of Browns Illinois.    

Dan was preceded in death by his parents, and brothers, Stephen P. Hering, Bill Hering and George Hering.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Wednesday, February 2, 2022 at 12:00 noon at St. Mary Catholic Church in Mt. Carmel. Visitation for family and friends will begin at 10:00 a.m. February 2, 2022 at the church until the time of service. Burial will take place following Mass at St. Mary Catholic Cemetery.

COVID-19 precautions, wearing of face coverings, social distancing and use of hand sanitizer are recommended. The family prefers the wearing of masks during visitation.

Memorials in Dan’s memory can be given to Mt. Carmel Veterans Honor Guard.

Condolences may be made online at www.short-cunninghamfh.com   

Short-Cunningham Funeral Home is honored to serve the Hering family.

Marvin Lee Jones, 66

Marvin Lee Jones, 66, of Mount Carmel, Illinois, passed away Wednesday, January 26, 2022, at Wabash General Hospital, surrounded by the love of his family.  He was born on July 24, 1955, in Carmi, Illinois, the son of Paul and Audrey (Bennett) Jones.  On August 8, 1980, he married Linda Kays at the Senior Citizens Center in Mount Carmel. 

Marvin worked for twenty-three years as an advanced EMT in Gibson County, Indiana, and was a Chief EMT at Wabash General Hospital during the early years of the Ambulance Service.  Some of Marvin’s favorite childhood memories are centered around his grandmother, Bessie Grubb who lovingly raised him.  Marvin enjoyed traveling, especially trips to Arizona.  Marvin and Linda enjoyed a good game of cards with family and friends and visiting at cookouts and gatherings.  Marvin liked to read, play video games, and he created many beautiful counted cross stitch pictures.  He was known as an excellent cook with his specialty being homemade noodles at the holidays.  Marvin was a member of Bellmont Methodist Church and also attended the First Christian Church.  He was a caring person, and he will be dearly missed by his family and friends.

Marvin leaves behind his loving wife of forty-one years, Linda; brother, Mike (Rosella) Jones of Carmi, IL; sisters, Debbie (David) Patterson of Chicago, IL, Sue (Bob) Hunt of Princeton, IN, Donna (Larry) Smithhart of Carmi, IL; many loved nieces and nephews.

Marvin was preceded in death by his parents; grandmother, Bessie Grubb; grandparents, John and Lillie Jones; two nephews, Daniel Kays, and Josh Churchill.

A Celebration of Life in honor of Marvin will be held at a later date.

Keepes Funeral Home is serving the family with the arrangements.  To view Marvin’s tribute wall, and leave condolences for the Jones family, please visit www.keepesfuneralhome.com

William F. “Bill” Erdman, 90

William F. “Bill” Erdman, 90, of Mt. Carmel, Illinois, passed away at his residence Saturday, January 22, 2022, surrounded by the love of his family.

He was born June 25, 1931, the son of William F. and Carrie R. (Carter) Erdman in Flora, Illinois. Bill graduated high school and joined the U.S. Air Force. On February 1, 1951, he married Esta Doades in Flora, Illinois.

Bill was a member of the Gospel Kingdom Church, VFW and American Legion.  He worked for Potter & Brumfield in Princeton, Indiana for ten years. Bill then went to work at Snap-On Tools. He retired after 22 years as a supervisor. He enjoyed camping on the White River, fishing, archery and hunting. 

Left to cherish Bill’s memory are his wife Esta, of 70 years of marriage; children, Angela Prater of Princeton, Indiana, and Larry (Laura) Pride of Mt. Carmel, Illinois; grandchildren, Andrew Erdman and Jessica Erdman of Mt. Carmel, Illinois, Carrie Nicki (Justin) Oyler of Decatur, Illinois, Chelsea (Jarad) Carter of Mt. Erie, Illinois, Derek (Hailey) Erdman of Princeton, Indiana, and Megan Jackson; step-grandchildren, Eric Norrick, Amanda Ewald and Keith Armstrong, Jr.; great-grandchildren, Skylar and Lee Ann, Jordyn, Joseph, Adilyn, Ella Mae, Jeremiah, Phoenix, Lorenzo and Madison; twelve step-great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.

Bill is preceded in death by his parents and sisters, Ezula and LaJean Erwin.

The Funeral Service will be held Monday, January 31, 2022, at 1:00 p.m. at Gospel Kingdom Church, 1440 West Third Street, Mt. Carmel, Illinois, with a visitation beginning at 11:00 a.m. until the time of service.  Burial will be in Highland Memorial Cemetery.

COVID-19 precautions, wearing of face coverings, social distancing and use of hand sanitizer is recommended.

Memorials may go to Gospel Kingdom Church, 1440 West Third Street, Mt. Carmel, Illinois 62863. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home.

Condolences may be made online at www.short-cunninghamfh.com    

Short-Cunningham Funeral Home is honored to serve the Erdman family.

Zanada Cravens, 88

Zanada Cravens, 88, of Mount Carmel, Illinois, passed away Sunday, January 23, 2022, at Wabash General Hospital, surrounded by the love of her family.  She was born on May 13, 1933, in Harrisburg, Illinois, the daughter of Bon and Pauline (Wilson) Tolbert.  She married Kenneth Cravens on August 11, 1956, in Mitchellville, Illinois, with Reverend Paul Dann officiating.  Together they enjoyed fifty-eight years of marriage until his passing on January 5, 2015. 

Zanada worked alongside her husband as the office manager at their family-owned business, Clarks Sheet Metal and Roofing.  She was very involved with the local Chamber of Commerce, and Merchants Association.  She was immensely proud of the work she did in the community.  Zanada had a love for animals, especially her cats.  She loved gardening and always kept her yard looking very nice.  All of her life, she enjoyed writing poetry which brought her great comfort.  She enjoyed traveling to many different places along with her husband.  In later years, her favorite trips were to California to visit her son.  Zanada was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother.  She was of Christian Faith with a sweet and gentle spirit who was blessed to be able to spend time with her great-grandchildren, instilling in them a loving legacy.  She will be dearly missed by her family and friends.

Zanada leaves behind her son, Kevin Cravens of Colfax, CA; daughter, Connie Clark, and husband David of Mount Carmel; grandson, Matthew Clark of Olney, IL; great-grandchildren, Aiden Logan, Bryar Clark, Clayton Clark and Deacon Clark; many loved cousins, nieces, and nephews.

Zanada was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Kenneth; brothers, Bob, James, and Harold Tolbert; sisters, Pauline Elsie Lewis, Betty Trippe, and infant sister, Zedia Ruth.

Funeral Services will be 1:00 p.m., Thursday, January 27, 2022, in the Chapel of Keepes Funeral Home with Pastor Mark Richison officiating.  Burial will follow at Highland Memorial Cemetery.

Family and friends may gather for a Visitation from 11:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m., Thursday, January 27, 2022, in the Chapel of Keepes Funeral Home. 

Social distancing, wearing of face coverings and use of hand sanitizer is recommended. 

Memorial contributions may be made in Zanada’s memory to CLL Leukemia Foundation.  Envelopes will be at the funeral home or may be mailed to Keepes Funeral Home, 1500 N Cherry St.  Mt. Carmel, IL  62863. 

Keepes Funeral Home is serving the family with the arrangements. To view Zanada’s tribute wall, leave condolences and purchase flowers for the Cravens family, please visit www.keepesfuneralhome.com

Ralph Andrew Reed, 46

Ralph Andrew Reed, 46, of Princeton, Indiana, formerly of Mt. Carmel, passed away Sunday, January 23, 2022, at his residence.

He was born December 22, 1975, the son of Amos and Charlotte (Pulliam) Reed in Mt. Carmel, Illinois. He graduated from Mt. Carmel High School. He married Kathleen Y. (Gallion) Reed at Hope Fellowship Church in Mt. Carmel. She proceeded him in death.

Ralph was a member of Hope Fellowship Church. He delivered papers for the Evansville Courier and Daily Republican Register for years and recently worked as an inspector for a manufacturing company.

Left to cherish Ralph’s memory is his father, Amos Reed, and a special friend, Ronald Pulliam.  

He is preceded in death by his mother and wife, Kathleen.

Funeral services will be held Thursday, January 27, 2022, at 11:00 a.m. in the Chapel of Short Funeral Home, 527 N. Mulberry Street, Mt. Carmel, Illinois. A visitation will be held from 10:00 a.m. until service time. Burial is a Lick Prairie Cemetery.

COVID-19 precautions, wearing of face coverings, social distancing and use of hand sanitizer is recommended.

Condolences may be made online at www.short-cunninghamfh.com    

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

Bradley Allen Adams, 61

Bradley Allen Adams, 61, of Grayville, Illinois, passed away Wednesday, January 12,  2022 at Wabash General Hospital.  He was born August 5, 1960, in Buffalo Grove, Illinois, the son of Lester Lee Adams and Lillian Mae (Waddle) Adams.  He grew up in Bone Gap, Illinois, living with his loving maternal grandparents, Harold, and Marie Waddle.

Bradley earned a bachelor’s degree in teaching from Eastern Illinois University and loved math and statistics.  He taught for a time but found that his shyness made public speaking a difficulty that he did not wish to battle, so he chose a quieter life doing factory work.  His love for math and statistics suited well for his other passion, baseball.  At any time, he could carry on a conversation with a stranger about baseball.  He knew more facts about baseball than most sports reporters.  He also enjoyed computer technology and games.  He lived most of his adult life in central Illinois but had returned to Grayville in the last few years.  He will be missed by his family and friends. 

Bradley leaves behind his siblings, Beverly Mejia of Lake Geneva, WI, John Adams of Central Illinois, Rodney (Donna) Adams of Humboldt, IL, Candice McDonald of Kansas City, MO, Karla Zimmerman of Cape Coral, FL, Harold Zimmerman of Naperville, IL; several nieces and nephews.

Bradley was preceded in death by his grandparents, Harold and Marie Waddle, mother, Lillian Mae (Waddle) Zimmerman along with her husband, Samuel of Villa Grove, IL, and his father, Lester Adams.

A Celebration of Life to honor Bradley will be held at a later date.

Keepes Funeral Home is serving the family with the arrangements.  To view Bradley’s tribute wall and leave condolences for his family, please visit www.keepesfuneralhome.com

Charles E. “Chuck” Gilkerson, 94

Charles E. “Chuck” Gilkerson, 94, of Mount Carmel, Illinois, passed away on Friday, January 14, 2022 at Deaconess Midtown Hospital in Evansville, Indiana. Chuck was born on May 26, 1927 in Marengo, Illinois, the son of Harry C. and Fern G. (Goodrich) Gilkerson. He graduated High School in Fairfield, IL where he served as President of his Senior Class. Three Days following his high school graduation, Chuck enlisted in the United States Navy and was called to duty one day after his eighteenth birthday, where he served during World War II. While enlisted, he held rank as a Hospital Apprentice caring for over forty-five men; a time that Chuck referred to as long hours and tough times.

Chuck married Mary Joan Gaines on June 4, 1953 in Grayville, Illinois. In 1953, Chuck and Joan started Gilkerson Cleaners, a dry-cleaning store in Mount Carmel. From a young age, Chuck worked in his grandfather’s laundry and cleaning service where he learned to press. Chuck was proud of his community and had a desire to serve. In 1962, he joined Civil Defense in the county and was later appointed Deputy Director of Civil Defense in Wabash County. He was very proud to receive an award for a human relations talk after taking Dale Carnegie Training. Chief Gilkerson worked for Mt. Carmel Police Department from 1967-1988 and took great pride in our community while serving with dedication and professionalism. In 1969, Chuck attended University of Evansville Law Enforcement and also Wabash Valley College. Chuck also served as Detective for the City and County and was known for his attention to detail and was always thorough in his investigation work. Chuck earned a certificate from Midwest Investigative Hypnosis Institute as a Hypno-Investigator and this skill was often used to break cases.

Chuck was very proud of his family especially his grandson, Chase. He always treasured time spent with family. Among Chuck’s hobbies, he enjoyed building scale model radio control boats by scratch and was proud of his collection. Chuck was baptized of Christian faith and attended the Christian Church in Grayville and later attended First Church of God in Mount Carmel.

Chuck will be remembered by his loving wife, Joan Gilkerson of Mount Carmel; daughter, Beth Neely and husband, Paul of Allendale; grandson, Chase Neely and fiancé, Emily Snyder; great grandchildren, Kynzleigh Ann, Kayleigh Alyn, Benjamin Martin, Gracelyn Marie and Claire Mayson whom he was looking forward to welcoming in May. Chuck was preceded in death by his parents; sister and brother-in-law, Betty (Bob) Johnston.

A Graveside Service with Full Military Honors will be held at 1:00 p.m., Tuesday, January 18, 2022 at Highland Memorial Cemetery with Brother Bill Reed officiating. Mount Carmel Police Department and the Wabash County Sheriff’s Department will also be in attendance to honor Chuck’s faithful service to our community with a Last Call. A private family visitation will be held prior to the service.

Social distancing, wearing of face coverings and use of hand sanitizer is recommended.

Memorial contributions may be made in Chuck’s memory to Wabash County Crimestoppers or the Wabash County Animal Shelter Buddies. Envelopes will be at the graveside service or can be mailed to Keepes Funeral Home, 1500 N. Cherry Street, Mount Carmel, IL 62863.

Keepes Funeral Home is serving the family with the arrangements. To view Chuck’s tribute wall, leave condolences and purchase flowers for the Gilkerson family, please visit www.keepesfuneralhome.com