Mildred J. Lawson, 85

Mildred J. Lawson, 85, of Mount Carmel, Illinois, passed away on August 27, 2022, at Transcendent Healthcare of Owensville, Indiana.

She was born on August 14, 1937, to Cecil and Josephine Douglas. Mildred married her late husband William Lawson on May 23, 1954, in Jeffersonville, Indiana.

Mildred and her husband did a lot of crafting together using ceramics. They would make dolls and furniture to go with them. She enjoyed volunteering at church and the Brownsville School. Mildred loved camping and boating at Patoka Lake.

Left to cherish Mildred’s memory are her two sons Dustan Lawson of Mount Carmel, Illinois, and Kevin Lawson of Mount Carmel, Illinois; granddaughter Nicole (Mark) Jones; and great-grandchildren Dustan Jones and Cortney Jones.    

Mildred was preceded in death by her parents, husband, and brother Darrell Douglas.

 Graveside service for Mildred will be Thursday, September 15, 2022 at 3:30 p.m. at Highland Memorial Cemetery, Mt. Carmel, Illinois.

 Memorials can be made to Wabash Area Vocational Enterprises (WAVE), 1420 W. 3rd Street, Mount Carmel, Illinois 62863. Envelopes will be available at the cemetery or Short-Cunningham Funeral Home.

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

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

Ronald Lee Simmerman, Sr., 84

Ronald Lee Simmerman, Sr., 84, of Mount Carmel, Illinois, passed away on Monday, September 12, 2022, at St. Vincent Hospital in Evansville, Indiana.  He was born on June 26, 1938 in Union County, Illinois, the son of Herbert and Oriene (Sowers) Simmerman.  Ronald married Lea D. Hall on October 10, 1977 and she preceded him in death in 2007.

Ronald faithfully served his Country in the United States Army.  He loved his family and treasured the time he got to spend with them.  His favorite past time was getting in the car and going for a drive.  Ronald also loved traveling to new places with Florida being one of his favorite destination spots.  Among his hobbies, he enjoyed collecting John Deere Diecast Tractors and going to the casino.  He was an avid Cubs fan and attended the parade when they won the World Series in 2016.  When Ronald was able, he loved being outside and taking care of his yard. 

Ronald will be remembered by his sons, Ronald Simmerman, Jr., Lucien Odom, Jim (Kim) Sullivan, Randall (Connie) Linson; daughters, Marty (Steve) Finchem, Carla (Jesse) Ray, Pam (Ron) Neisler and Jamie Linson; grandchildren, Jodi Simpson, Heather (Marvin) Bailey, Marissa Linson, Jordon Linson-Currie, Shonelle Harris, Bryce Harris, Chelsea Ferris, Leah Ferris, Cory (Haley) Smith, Shannon (Thomas) Burton, Rebeca (Bobby) Ray, Danielle (Tim) Ray, Madison Oh  and Ryan (Danette) Linson; many loved great grandchildren and great great grandchildren; brother, Larry Simmerman; sister, Emma Lou Sadler; many loved cousins, nieces and nephews.

Ronald was preceded in death by his parents; wife; daughter, Kelly Ferris; sister, Pat Flick; brother, Gerald Coffman.

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

Funeral Services will be at 1:00 p.m., Friday, September 16, 2022 in the Chapel of Keepes Funeral Home.  Burial will follow at Allendale Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made in Ronald’s memory to Hope Pregnancy Center or Safe Haven.  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 Ronald’s tribute wall, purchase flowers and leave condolences for the Simmerman family, please visit www.keepesfuneralhome.com

Nellie Faye (Huff) Cowles, 79

Nellie Faye (Huff) Cowles, 79, of Mount Carmel, Illinois, passed away peacefully on Saturday, September 10, 2022 at St. Vincent Hospital in Evansville, Indiana surrounded by the love of her family. She was born on June 14, 1943 in Tell City, Indiana the daughter of Edgar and Ruthie (Warthan) Huff. Nellie married John P. Cowles on December 11, 1962 and he preceded her in death on June 18, 2020. Nellie was also preceded in death by her parents; and her siblings.

Nellie held a variety of positions including retail, hospitality, school bus driver and security guard. Nellie enjoyed cooking, card games, her grandchildren, reading and binge watching really good Netflix series. She will be deeply missed by her family and all who knew her.

Nellie will be remembered by her son, John R. Cowles; daughter, Amanda R. Waggoner; grandchildren, Taylor Faye Waggoner and John Riley Waggoner; son-in-law, Jim Waggoner; son-in-law, Ric Underhile; niece, Cheryl Eisenreich; many other friends and family.

In keeping with Nellie’s wishes cremation will take place and no formal services will be held at this time.

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

Betty Jo (Doan) Gallatin

Betty Jo (Doan) Gallatin passed away peacefully on September 2, 2022 in Tucson, Arizona. She was born in Mt. Carmel, Illinois, on December 19, 1930, to Herbert and Naomi (George) Doan. Betty graduated from Mt. Carmel High School in 1948 and worked for several years at Charles L. Miller Insurance Agency. In October, 1962, she married Wilbur (Wib) Gallatin and together, they owned and operated Gallatin’s Market, until 1977. They moved to Tucson, Arizona in 1978, where both Betty and Wilbur were employed by Tucson Unified School District. Wilbur preceded Betty in death in February of 1994. Betty continued to remain active in Tucson schools in various roles due to her excellent office skills. She officially retired in 2004 and enjoyed spending her time with grandchildren and great-grandchildren and attending their school activities and sports. She also loved to make delicious food for her friends and family, her specialties being sweet butter cream caramels and cheese balls at Christmas, and fresh coconut pies anytime they were requested. She devoted herself to her daughter, son-in-law, granddaughters and their families.

She is survived by daughter and son-in-law, Cathy and Paul Carey, granddaughters Megan Laux (Scott), Erin Whatton (David), Ashley Jones (Mitchell), all of Tucson, and Hayley Whittier (Brandon), Queen Creek, Arizona. She is also survived by great-grandchildren, Sydney and Chase Laux, Abby and Macy Whatton, Brody and Sadie Jones, all of Tucson, and Parker, Paige, Preston, and Porter Whittier of Queen Creek, Arizona. Surviving also are step great-granddaughters Jessica Whatton (Michael Alexander) and Alyssa Whatton, all of Tucson, and step great-great granddaughter Brynn Alexander, Tucson. Also surviving are sister-in-law Claudia Bryant, cousin Kent (Marilyn) Lewis, and many well-loved nieces and nephews.

Preceding her in death were her beloved husband, parents, step-father, Murl Bryant, infant son, Bernard Mark Robinson, brothers Thomas Doan, William (Joyce) Doan, sisters Nellie (Harold) Hansman, Charlotte (Harold) Burkhart, Barbara (Curtis) Wilson, and step brother Doyle Bryant.

She was of the Catholic faith and generously supported several organizations. She touched the lives of many with her kindness, generosity and care to whoever was in need. She will be greatly missed by all whose lives she touched.

Visitation will be held on Monday, Oct. 3, 2022, from 5:30-7:30 p.m. at Adair Mortuary, 8090 N. Northern Ave., Oro Valley, AZ. Funeral mass will be Tuesday, Oct. 4, 2022, at 10:30 a.m. at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton’s Church, 8650 N. Shannon Road, Tucson, AZ, with interment immediately following at Holy Hope Cemetery, 3555 N. Oracle, Tucson, Arizona.

Alice M. Hedge, 104

104 year old Mt. Carmel resident, Alice M. Hedge, passed away Tuesday September 6, 2022 at Oakview Nursing Home.

Alice was born on December 13, 1917 in Wabash County, Illinois to Harley S. and Jane (McCreay) Smith. She married James Robert Hedge on October 14, 1917 and he preceded her in death on February 3, 2005. Alice was a cook for several years at various nursing homes, restaurants and hospitals. After retiring, she continued to make pies for several restaurants. She was also a member of the Evangelical United Methodist Church in Mt. Carmel.

Survivors include her 4 daughters, Phyllis J. Swope of Bradley, IL, Beverly J. Brown of Mt. Carmel, IL, Mary Duffield of St. Anna, IL Kathy Luedtke of Momence, IL, 3 sons, Marion K. Hedge of Saint Anne, IL, Thomas A. Hedge of Sesser, IL, John Hedge of Vincennes, IN, 14 grandchildren, 3 step grandchildren, 29 great grandchildren, and 19 great great grandchildren.

Alice is preceded in death by her parents, her husband James Robert Hedge, 1 son Kent Hedge, 4 brothers and 2 sisters.

Funeral Services for Alice M. Hedge will be held at 11:00 a.m. Saturday, September 10, 2022 at Nale’s Funeral Home in Albion. Visitation will be held 10:00 a.m. until service time Saturday at Nale’s Funeral. Interment will be at Graceland Cemetery.

Memorials may be given to the EUM Church and will be accepted at Nale’s Funeral Home or can be sent to the church at 2010 N Cherry St, Mt. Carmel, IL 62863.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be left for the family at www.nalesfuneralhome.com. Nale’s Funeral Home is assisting the family.

Christopher Lee Griggs, 35

Christopher Lee Griggs, 35, of Mount Carmel, Illinois, sadly passed away on August 31, 2022, in Las Vegas, Nevada. He was born June 24, 1987, to Dennis and Angela Griggs.

Christopher was survived by his parents; Dennis (Jamie) and Angela (Nick); his son, Judah; his sister, Kimberly; his niece, Elle; his ex-wife, Melissa; and many extended family members.

Christopher was a devoted father who loved spending as much time as possible with his son. He loved playing his guitar for Judah, playing video games together, and entertaining Judah with funny and imaginative voices. Most importantly, he loved reading stories to Judah, especially from The Bible. Christopher always had a huge smile on his face when talking about his son.

Christopher graduated from The Los Angeles Film School with a music production degree in 2019. He was very passionate about music and very talented with his guitar. He was co-founder of pinkytheelephant.com and was head of advertisement. He will continue to be an intricate part of its success from Heaven. Christopher had a knack for lifting people's spirits with music, scripture, or a kind word.  Christopher was a bright light in this world and one of a kind. He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all who knew him.

Christopher will be cremated and his ashes will be cherished by his family. Donations can be made in his name to Teen Challenge or Lighthouse Recovery Center. 

Pamela Sue Henegar, 75

Pamela Sue Henegar, 75, of Mt. Carmel, Illinois, went to be with the Lord on Sunday, September 4, 2022.

She was born December 3, 1946, in Princeton, Indiana, the daughter of A. Porter and Joan (Cooper) Selby. Pam was a graduate of Mt. Carmel High School Class of 1965, Wabash Valley College, and Eastern Illinois University. On May 26, 1994, Pam married Wayne Henegar in Princeton, Indiana.

In addition to being a stay-at-home mother and homemaker during her children’s early years, she taught special education at Fairfield Community School district, was administrative assistant to psychiatrists at Good Samaritan Hospital, and Administrative Assistant to the Dean of Students at Wabash Valley College for sixteen years. After retirement she devoted many hours to the Wabash County Animal Shelter. She was an active member of Community Church of God in Mt. Carmel. She and Wayne loved hosting her immediate and extended family in their home as well as at their houseboat at Barkley Lake.

She is survived by her husband Wayne; three daughters, Melissa (John) Dzikowski, Beth (Josh) Sherman, and Betsy (Daniel) Marshall; five grandchildren, Emily (Logan) Bowman, Matthew Dzikowski, Josh Sherman II, Collin Sherman, and Logan Marshall; one great-grandchild, Raeleigh Bowman; siblings, David (Kathy) Selby, Lori (Terry) Catt, and Lisa (Rick) Gwinn; and several nieces and nephews.

Pam is preceded in death by her parents, Porter and Joan Selby, and a niece Meri Catt.

There will be a visitation for family and friends Friday, September 9, 2022, from 4:00 until 6:00 p.m. at Community Church of God.

Funeral services will be Saturday, September 10, 2022, at 12:00 noon at Community Church of God. Burial to take place at a later date.

Memorials can be made to Wabash County Animal Shelter Buddies or the American Cancer Society. Envelopes will be available at the church.

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

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

Carolyn Kay (Deisher) Linxwiler, 79

Carolyn Kay (Deisher) Linxwiler, 79, of Mount Carmel, Illinois, passed away peacefully Friday, September 2, 2022, at Linda E. White Hospice House in Evansville, Indiana, with her loving family by her side.  She was born on October 29, 1942, in Wabash County, Illinois, the daughter of Lawrence and Gladys (Miller) Deisher.  Kay married Fred Glenn Linxwiler on June 29, 1962, and together they enjoyed fifty-nine years of marriage centered on their family until his passing on February 9, 2022.

Kay retired from Wabash General Hospital where she worked for twenty-five years in the dietary department.  She treasured the friendships she developed with fellow employees while working there.  Kay was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother.  She had great faith and was a prayer warrior.  Kay was an extreme gift giver and loved to celebrate every occasion.  She treasured time spent with her family, her grandchildren, and great-grandchildren who held a special place in her heart.  She was a member of Heartland Worship Center and loved her church family.  Her legacy and great faith will live on in her family.

Kay will be remembered by her twin daughters, Sherry Stinson and husband Tim, Sheila Rue and husband, Brad; 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; brothers, Donny (Sandy) Deisher, and Lloyd (Jane) Deisher; sisters, Loree Barber, and Lois Houchin; many loved nieces, nephews and cousins.

Kay was preceded in death by her husband, Fred Glenn Linxwiler; brothers, B. Floyd (Annabelle) Deisher, and Loren Deisher; sisters, Wilma (John) Brown, Jean (Perle) McCaw, Esther (Earl) Youngman, Betty (Leland) Stoltz, and Beverly Harding.

Family and friends are invited to gather for a Visitation from 11:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m., Tuesday, September 6, 2022, at Heartland Worship Center.

Funeral Services will be at 1:00 p.m., Tuesday, September 6, 2022, at Heartland Worship Center with Pastor Tony Hodgson officiating.  Burial will follow at Highland Memorial Cemetery where Kay will be laid to rest next to her beloved husband, Fred.

Memorial contributions may be made in Kay’s memory to Heartland Worship Center.

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 Kay’s tribute wall, purchase flowers and leave condolences for the Linxwiler family, please visit www.keepesfuneralhome.com

Sue Ellen Murphy, 67

Sue Ellen Murphy, 67, of Allendale, Illinois, passed away Monday, August 29, 2022, at University of Louisville Hospital in Louisville Kentucky.  She was born on February 16, 1955, in Mount Carmel, Illinois, the daughter of Don Lucian and Mary Jane (Ridgley) Andrews.  She married Kevin Douglas Murphy on December 7, 2012, and together they enjoyed nine years of marriage until his passing on August 19, 2022.

Sue worked for Allendale Gravel Co., Inc. for 35 years, as a general manager and project coordinator, retiring in 2020. She loved the challenges associated with her career in the construction industry and felt rewarded by the success of the many projects that she was a part of. The most rewarding part of her career was making memories and establishing friendships with the many people that she felt blessed to work with.

She was a longtime member and Elder of Wabash Presbyterian Church at Orio.  Sue was very involved in the activities of the church and greatly enjoyed her position as Choir Director, Sunday School Teacher, and being a Worship Leader.  She, along with her husband, Kevin, greatly enjoyed helping at the annual Orio Chowder.  Sue was active for several years with the Hickory Grove Great Banquet at Orio where she served as a lay director and was part of several teams.

In her spare time, Sue enjoyed cooking, baking, growing an herb garden and tending to her flowers.  She liked working on woodworking and craft projects and enjoyed a game of cribbage and euchre.  Sue and Kevin enjoyed spending time with family and friends.  They would often take side by side rides through the country, sometimes meeting up with friends along the way.  Sue treasured the time she got to spend with her grandson, Silas Murphy, as she and Kevin cared for him during the summer months and every day after school.  He was the light of their lives.  Sue was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, and a good friend to many.  Her presence will be dearly missed by all who knew her.

Sue leaves behind her son, Eric Haines; stepson, Andrew Murphy, and wife Amanda; grandson, Silas Murphy; brother, Bob Andrews and wife Wilma of Richmond, Virginia.

Sue was preceded in death by her parents, and husband, Kevin.

Family and friends are invited to gather for a Visitation for Sue and Kevin Murphy from 4:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m., Wednesday, September 7, 2022, at Wabash Presbyterian Church, 11188 N 2300 Blvd, Allendale, IL 62410.

Funeral Services for Sue and Kevin Murphy will be 11:00 a.m., Thursday, September 8, 2022, at Wabash Presbyterian Church with Pastor Kevin McGinnis officiating.  Following the Funeral, Sue and Kevin will be laid to rest at Wabash Presbyterian Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made in the Murphy’s memory to Wabash Presbyterian 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 Sue’s tribute wall, purchase flowers and leave condolences for the Murphy family, please visit www.keepesfuneralhome.com

Kevin Douglas Murphy, 66

Kevin Douglas Murphy, 66, of Allendale, Illinois, passed away, Friday, August 19, 2022, at University of Louisville Hospital in Louisville, Kentucky.  He was born on February 18, 1956, in Vincennes, Indiana, the son of Marlin Gene and Wynema (Hankins) Murphy.  He married Sue Ellen Andrews on December 7, 2012, and for nine years they enjoyed each other’s company along with their blended families.

Kevin retired from Duke Energy where he had worked as a control operator.  He was owner-operator of Rocket Works Race Cars, LLC and was an avid drag racer, along with working as a mechanic and machinist.  On December 15, 2013, Kevin joined the Wabash Presbyterian Church at Orio, where he and Sue were very active in the church activities.  They especially enjoyed helping at the Orio Chowder each year and all the friendships made there.  Kevin treasured the time he got to spend with his grandson, Silas Murphy, as he and Sue cared for him during the summer months and every day after school.   Watching Silas play baseball was one of his favorite things to do.  Kevin and Sue loved taking drives on their side by side, often meeting up with friends along their way.   Kevin was a loving husband, father, grandfather, and friend to many.  He will be dearly missed by all who knew him.

Kevin’s wife Sue survived him for ten days following his passing.  Kevin leaves behind his son, Andrew Murphy, and wife Amanda; stepson, Eric Haines; grandson, Silas Murphy; mother, Wynema Murphy; brothers, Michael Murphy and wife Cathy, and Aaron Murphy; several loved nieces, nephews, and friends.

Kevin was preceded in death by his father.

Family and friends are invited to gather for a Visitation for Kevin and Sue Murphy from 4:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m., Wednesday, September 7, 2022, at Wabash Presbyterian Church, 11188 N 2300 Blvd, Allendale, IL 62410.

Funeral Services for Kevin and Sue Murphy will be 11:00 a.m., Thursday, September 8, 2022, at Wabash Presbyterian Church with Pastor Kevin McGinnis officiating.  Following the Funeral, Kevin and Sue will be laid to rest at Wabash Presbyterian Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made in the Murphy’s memory to Wabash Presbyterian 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 Kevin’s tribute wall, purchase flowers and leave condolences for the Murphy family, please visit www.keepesfuneralhome.com

Visitation & Funeral Service Info for Kevin & Sue Murphy

Family and friends are invited to gather for a Visitation for Kevin and Sue Murphy from 4:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m., Wednesday, September 7, 2022, at Wabash Presbyterian Church, 11188 N 2300 Blvd, Allendale, IL 62410.

Funeral Services for Kevin and Sue Murphy will be 11:00 a.m., Thursday, September 8, 2022, at Wabash Presbyterian Church with Pastor Kevin McGinnis officiating. Following the Funeral, Kevin and Sue will be laid to rest at Wabash Presbyterian Cemetery.

Once available, full obituaries for Kevin & Sue Murphy will be published on www.KeepesFuneralHome.com.

Dominic Anthony Lies, 63

Dominic Anthony Lies, 63, of Sebastian Florida, went to see the Lord, Thursday, August 18, 2022, in Fort Pierce Florida, with his loving wife, Carmen, stepdaughter, Kristen and her husband Ronaldo by his side.

Dominic also leaves behind a son, Ethan and daughter, Bree; three brothers, Matt (Penny) Lies, Mark (Michelle) Lies, and Steven (Traci) Lies; as well as several nieces, nephews and grandchildren.

Family and friends are invited to a Celebration of Life from 12:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m., Labor Day, Monday, September 5, 2022, at the home of Matt and Penny Lies, 1517 Michael Avenue in Mount Carmel, Illinois.

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

Wanda Mae Broster, 97

Wanda Mae Broster, 97, of Mount Carmel, Illinois, passed away on Thursday, August 25, 2022, at Oakview Heights in Mount Carmel, Illinois.

She was born in Edwards County on May 27, 1925, to Frank and Hattie (Gibson) Morlan. She married Gerald R. Broster on January 19, 1946, in Browns, Illinois.

Wanda worked as a Nursing Assistant at Wabash General Hospital for 25 years. She was a faithful member of the Bellmont Christian Church.

Left to cherish Wanda’s memory are several nieces and nephews. Special friend Rita Giese.

Wanda was preceded in death by her parents, husband, a son Kenneth Broster, two infant brothers Darrel and Guy Morlan, her three sisters Claranell Fawlex, Imogean Wood, and Nadine Radke.

Visitation will be Saturday, August 27, 2022, at 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. in the Chapel of Short Funeral Home. Funeral service will be held at 11:30 a.m. With burial to follow at Highland Memorial Cemetery.

Memorials can be made to Bellmont Christian Church. Envelopes will be available the day of service.

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

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

Clint A. Smock, 49

Clint A. Smock, 49, of Mount Carmel, Illinois, passed away Tuesday, August 23, 2022, at home. He was born on April 5, 1973, in Jacksonville, Illinois, the son of Stephen and Patsy (Jones) Smock.

Clint worked as a machinist at O’Neal Steel Factory in Evansville, Indiana. He loved music and enjoyed playing his guitar. He liked dressing nice and going out to watch movies with his son, Phoenix, who was the greatest joy of his life. Clint was a kind man, and he will be missed by all who knew him.

Clint leaves behind his son, Phoenix Smock; parents, Stephen, and Patsy Smock; brother, Darian Smock and wife Kristi; two nephews, Max and Haden Smock; and mother of Clint’s son, Tammy Smock.

No formal services are being held at this time.

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

Mary Lou Kieffer, 89

Mary Lou Kieffer, 89, of Mt. Carmel, Illinois, peacefully passed away Sunday, August 21, 2022, at Wabash General Hospital surrounded by her family.

 She was born February 11, 1933, in Mt. Carmel, Illinois, the daughter of Theodore S. and Anna Pauline (Schmitt) Wellerman. Mary Lou was a graduate of Mt. Carmel High School.  On February 11, 1953, she married Joe Ray Kieffer at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Mt. Carmel.

 Mary Lou was a lifelong member St. Mary’s Catholic Church.  She worked as a clerk for J.C. Penney’s in Mt. Carmel.  Mary Lou enjoyed collecting baseball cards, stamps, salt & pepper shakers, and angel statues. For years she bowled for Anderson Brothers Oil Company and was a member of the Red Hatters.

 Left to cherish Mary Lou’s memory is her husband of 69 years of marriage, Joe Ray; daughter Mary Jo and her husband Norman of Mt. Carmel, Illinois, and a granddaughter Sharon R. Luth of Princeton, Indiana. 

 Mary Lou was preceded in death by her parents.

 Visitation will be held Friday, August 26, 2022, from 9:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m. at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, 125 W. 5th Street, Mt. Carmel, Illinois.  A Celebration of Life Service will be held at 11:00 a.m.  Burial will follow at St. Mary’s Catholic Cemetery.

 Memorials may be made to St. Mary’s Catholic Church or the St. Mary’s School.  Envelopes will be available at the church or funeral home.

 The family would like to express a special thank you to Dr. Larry Lutz.

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

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

Bonnie M. Davis, 72

Bonnie M. Davis, 72, of Mount Carmel, Illinois, passed away Saturday, August 20, 2022, at home, surrounded by her loving family.  She was born on June 22, 1950, in Mount Carmel, the daughter of James and Mary (Wiseman) Birkla.  She married Donald Paul “Donnie” Davis on July 10, 1974, in Princeton, Indiana and together they have enjoyed forty-eight years of marriage. 

Bonnie worked as a CNA at Shurtleff Manor Nursing home and, throughout the years, was also employed in the food service industry as a cook and waitress at several local restaurants, including Hardees, Long John Silvers, Burger Chef, and the Elks club.  She enjoyed cooking for a crowd, especially when she could gather her family all together.  Bonnie loved her family dearly and enjoyed following her grandchildren in their activities.  In her spare time, Bonnie enjoyed shopping, and watching western movies.  Bonnie was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother.  She was a member of Parkview Christian Church, and she will be missed by all who knew and loved her.

Bonnie leaves behind her loving husband, Donnie; two sons, Chad Davis, and wife Jennifer of Mount Carmel, Jimmy Bailey and wife Kathryn of Princeton, IN; one daughter, Mary Taylor of Evansville, IN; eight grandchildren, Kimbery Wilson, Kara Wilson, Richie (Tanya) Bobbitt, Chris (Angelica) Bobbitt, Sam Wampler, Emily Wampler, Zayn Davis, and Tenley Davis; great-grandchildren, Izzy and Ari Ambrose, Landyn Wilson, Grayson Gibson, Brian and Marcus Scissney, Acelin and Elliott Bobbitt, and Kylo Jackson; one sister, Donna Rainbolt; several loved nieces and nephews.

Bonnie was preceded in death by her parents; two brothers, Ronnie Lee, and Joseph Lyle Birkla.

Family and friends are invited to gather for a Visitation from 11:00 a.m. – 12:30 p.m., Thursday, August 25, 2022, in the Chapel of Keepes Funeral Home. 

Funeral Services will be at 12:30 p.m., Thursday, August 25, 2022, in the Chapel of Keepes Funeral Home with Pastor Mark Richison officiating.  Following the Funeral Service, cremation will take place and a private family burial will be held at a later date at Allendale Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made in Bonnie’s memory to Parkview 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 Bonnie’s tribute wall, purchase flowers and leave condolences for the Davis family, please visit www.keepesfuneralhome.com

Hazel F. Hills, age 88

Hazel F. Hills, age 88, of Lawrenceville, Illinois passed away on Tuesday, August 16, 2022 at the Good Samaritan Hospital in Vincennes, Indiana. She was born on July 20, 1934 in Lawrence County, Illinois, the daughter of Melvin T. and Florence (Edmondson) Griesemer. She married Don. I. Hills on July 23, 1955, and he preceded her in death on August 12, 2008.

Hazel was a nurses aide at the Red Hill Nursing Home for a number of years, and retired from Snap-on Tools in Mt. Carmel, Illinois. She taught line dancing at the Senior Citizens Center and was a volunteer for the Lawrence County Memorial Hospital Auxiliary. She was a member of the Wabash Presbyterian Church in Orio, Illinois, and attended the Lawrenceville Presbyterian Church. She enjoyed being a grandmother, line dancing, and spending winters in Florida with Don.

Preceding her in death were her parents; husband; five brothers, Melvin Griesemer, Leonard Griesemer, Vernon Griesemer, Leon Griesemer, and Harold Griesemer; four sisters, Thelma Gaither, Opal Sturgeon, Fern Blacker, and Velda Griesemer; and one granddaughter, Shannon Campbell.

Survivors include three daughters, Debra Miller and husband, Jeff, Cindy Hills, and Sheila Montgomery and husband, Raymond all of Lawrenceville, Illinois and she was a grandmother to Michael Montgomery, Bethann Middlemas, Shibonne Jacobson, Lexis Fitch, Tavis Burton, Tyler Burton, Kenny Campbell, Austi Jacobson, Kaydence Middlemas, Ryleigh Middlemas, Raelyn Middlemas, Austin Montgomery, Adeline Montgomery, Layla Lee, Khiyah Burton, Marlee Alka, and Myles Burton.

Funeral services will be conducted on Friday, August 19, 2022 at 11:00 AM CDT at the Emmons-Macey & Steffey Funeral Home in Lawrenceville, Illinois. Visitation will be on Thursday from 5:00 PM until 7:00 PM CDT at the funeral home. Burial will be in the Crest Haven Memorial Park Cemetery. Memorial donations may be made to Lawrence County Memorial Hospital Endowment and Development or Good Samaritan Hospice.

Please visit www.emmonsmaceysteffey.com to view the tribute and to send condolences.

Barbara Ellen (Hungerford) Heil, 80

Barbara Ellen (Hungerford) Heil, 80, of Sparta, IL; born on September 5, 1941 in Princeton, IN; the daughter of Virgil and Bessie Mae Hungerford; passed away on Saturday, August 13, 2022 at Mercy Hospital in Springfield, MO.

Barbara was a member at the Sparta Country Club where she enjoyed many days golfing and playing tennis.  She was a science teacher at Sparta Lincoln and went on to teach at Tilden where she retired.  Barbara loved playing cards but only when she won!  She also enjoyed traveling and spending time with her grandkids who she adored.

She is survived by two children – Tomi (Tom) Diefenbach of Sparta, MO and Chad (Danielle) Heil of Branson, MO; five grandchildren – Ryan Diefenbach, Casey (Kayla) Diefenbach, Savannah (Wesley) Vallee, Jaclyn Heil, and Shelby Heil; three great grandchildren – Bradlee Diefenbach, Brookelyn Diefenbach, and Reed Vallee; one brother – Bob (Molly) Hungerford of Florida; three sisters – Libby (Mike) Etheridge of Mt. Carmel, IL, Sara Bixby of Ozark, MO, and Mary Goad of Evansville, IN.

Barbara was preceded in death by her husband – Roy Heil; parents – Virgil and Bessie Mae Hungerford; brother – Dana Hungerford.

Memorial Contributions may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, August 18, 2022 at Heil-Schuessler & Sinn Funeral Home in Sparta from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.  Funeral services will begin at 12:00 p.m. Committal services will be held at Caledonia Cemetery in Sparta, IL.

Heil-Schuessler & Sinn Funeral Home in Sparta, Illinois is in charge of arrangements.

Cheryl Lynn (Spidel) Alka, age 74

Cheryl Lynn (Spidel) Alka, age 74, of Lawrenceville, Illinois flew away to her Heavenly home on August 10, 2022, after a long-term battle with illness. She was born on February 06, 1948, the first child of Gerald and Jeanne (Sandlin) Spidel. She married Robert C. “Bob” Alka on August 01, 1969, and they enjoyed 53 years of devoted marriage and raising a family.

Cheryl graduated from St. Francisville High School in 1966. Once her children were a little older and in school, she went back to college to pursue her dream of working as a nurse, graduating from WVC and passing her nursing boards to become a RN. She worked at Good Samaritan Hospital and the Lawrence County Health Department.

Cheryl was proud of her career, but nothing compared to the joy she found in taking care of her family and friends. She loved to feed every soul that crossed her door step. Her cooking was legendary. She always made sure that no one ever left her home feeling hungry or unloved.

Left to cherish her precious memory include her loving husband, Bob; her mother, Jeanne; her children, Bryan and Kristy Alka, Matt and Kristi Schrader, and Jim and Susan Alka; her brother-in-law, Charles and Kay Alka; her favorite people in the whole world, her grandchildren, Daisy Schrader, Liv Alka, and Sam Schrader; and many nieces and nephews, cousins, extended family, and friends.

She was preceded in death by her father, Gerald; her brother, Patrick Spidel; and countless other family members and friends that no doubt welcomed her into Heaven with smiles and open arms.

Funeral services will be conducted on Saturday, August 13, 2022 at 1:00 PM CDT at the Emmons-Macey & Steffey Funeral Home in Lawrenceville, Illinois. Visitation will be on Saturday from 11:00 AM until 1:00 PM CDT at the funeral home. Burial will be in the Highland Memorial Cemetery in Mt. Carmel, Illinois. Memorial donations may be made to the St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital or The Lunch Wagon in Mt. Carmel.

The family requests that you write down your favorite memory of Cheryl to put in a memory box.

Please visit www.emmonsmaceysteffey.com to view the tribute and to send condolences.

Gerald E. “Gary” Wirth, 72

Gerald E. “Gary” Wirth, 72, of Mt. Carmel, Illinois, passed away Monday, August 8, 2022, at Walnut Creek in Evansville, Indiana, surrounded by the love of his family.

He was born January 22, 1950, in Princeton, Indiana, the son of Gilbert and Lorena (Berberich) Wirth.  Gary graduated from Mt. Carmel High School in 1968 and two years later received an associate degree. On June 9, 1979, he married Alice Trapp at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Mt. Carmel, Illinois.

Gary was a parishioner of St. Mary’s Catholic Church and a member of the Knights of Columbus.  He worked in mechanical maintenance for Duke Energy.  Gary loved spending time in the great outdoors, including hiking, hunting, camping, and riding his motorcycle.  He enjoyed waking up early to experience the sunrise and sound of nature coming alive and ending the day next to a cracking campfire, looking at the stars above. 

Gary’s greatest pride was his family.  He enjoyed every opportunity to spend time with them, whether teaching his kids when they were younger to ride a bike or having his house full of family for the holidays.  Gary also loved traveling to visit his children and grandchildren.  His fondest memories were of vacations he took with his family, especially those to St. Lucia, where they climbed Gros Piton, and Alaska, where they witnessed the beauty of Glacier Bay National Park. 

Left to cherish Gary’s memory are his wife of 43 years, Alice; children, Michael and partner Mike of Atlanta, Georgia, Daniel and his wife Lisa of Ballwin, Missouri, Christopher and his wife Kathryn of Mt. Carmel, Illinois, and Hilary and her husband Mark of Collinsville, Illinois; grandchildren, Ethan, Ashton, Julien, Charlotte and Calvin; a brother, Donald and his wife Judy of Naples, Florida and a brother-in-law, Jack of Belleville, Illinois. 

Gary is preceded in death by his parents and sister, Marlene.

A visitation will be held for family and friends Sunday, August 14, 2022, from 3:00 until 7:00 p.m. at the St. Mary’s Church, 125 W. 5th Street, Mt. Carmel, Illinois.  A rosary service will begin at 7:00 p.m. 

On Monday, August 15, 2022, at 11:00 a.m. there will be a funeral mass at St. Mary’s Catholic Church.  Burial will follow at St. Mary’s Catholic Cemetery. 

Memorials may be made to St. Sebastian Catholic Church, 4921 N 1400 Blvd., Mt. Carmel, Illinois 62863 or to Stray Rescue of St. Louis, 2320 Pine Street, St. Louis, Missouri 63103.  Envelopes will also be available at the church and funeral home. 

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

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