John Jacob Lawrence, 79 of Taylorville, passed away at 3:40 p.m., Monday, May 30 at Taylorville Memorial Hospital.  He was born November 25, 1936 in LaPorte, Indiana, the son of J. Marshall and Bertha Armentrout Lawrence.  John married his high school sweetheart: Joan L. Hannemann on January 24, 1959 in LaPorte, Indiana.  He graduated from the Kelley School of Business at Indiana University and earned his CPA.  He was a veteran of the Air Force and retired as a 1^st Lieutenant.  He was a member of the Fairview United Methodist Church.  John was very active in his community including: Kiwanis, Christian County Economic Development Corporation, Taylorville Development Association, and served as an Alderman for the city of Taylorville.  He was an avid fan of Indiana University basketball and was a season ticket holder for many years and was a member of the IU Alumni Association.  John was a “statistical guru” and loved numbers and keeping detailed records of all he was involved with.  He worked as a CPA for many years with the firm of Murphey, Jenne, & Jones and later ran his own CPA practice.  He also had worked as a trust officer for First Trust Bank in Taylorville.  He loved the outdoors, working in his yard, and growing many trees.  John had many dogs over the years including 2 collies that survive him: Duke and A.J.  John had a passion for helping others with his knowledge of tax and accounting work.  He held a very strong belief in the importance of education.  

John is survived by his wife: Joan Lawrence of Taylorville; children: Rudy Marshall Lawrence (Tonya) of Lansing, Michigan, John Carlisle Lawrence (Angie) of Farmer City, Illinois, Bette Lu Chesser (Tom) of Sherman, Illinois, and Jack Andrew Lawrence (Joan) of Noblesville, Indiana; grandchildren: Chad Lawrence, Jon Lawrence, Andrew Lawrence (Kate), Amanda McQuaid (Jacob), Emily Chesser, Jacob Lawrence, Jillian Lawrence, Josie Lawrence, Jaclyn Lawrence, Jocelyn Toupin (Tony), and Jonelle McGinn (Trevor); 7 great-grandchildren; brother: Gene Lawrence (Bev) of California; sister: Carol Burklow of Ohio.  He was preceded in death by his parents, a sister and a brother.

Funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Friday, June 3, 2016 at Fairview United Methodist Church with Rev. Ric Miles officiating.  Visitation will be held from 5 until 7p.m. on Thursday at McClure Funeral Home in Taylorville.  Burial will be in the Fairview Cemetery.  In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Camp Care-A-Lot, a camp for children with disabilities, PO Box 9407, Springfield, IL 62791 or the Christian County YMCA, 900 McAdam Dr. Taylorville, IL. 

McClure Funeral Home & Cremation Services is in charge of arrangements. Memories of John or condolences to his family may be sent online at www.mcclurefuneralhome.com.  

Aime Stephen Kocurek, 78 of Taylorville, IL passed away Monday, May 30, 2016 at Memorial Medical Center in Springfield, IL.  He was born on October 4, 1937 in Taylorville son of Stephen and Laura (Dupont) Kocurek.  He married Rose Marie Banko on August 20, 1960 by Father Leo Sustak at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, Taylorville, IL

In addition to his wife Rose, He is survived by his son: Mark (Susan) Kocurek of Kincaid, IL; daughters: Christine (Bradley) Thomas of Edinburg, IL, Amy (William) Reeter of Taylorville, IL; grandchildren: Chelsea (Jordan) McKinnie, Clint Thomas, Stephen (Bridget) Shanks, Melissa (Richard) Pease,Lora Reeter, Timothy, Taylor, Markie, and Rylee Kocurek; great grandchildren: Kyler Nelson, Domynik Kocurek, Daisy Shanks, Logan Gross, and James McKinnie; sister: Flora Morrissey of Taylorville, IL; sisters-in-law: Emma Cowgill of Troy, IL, Ruth Spinner of Taylorville, IL, and Janet (Alvin) Mizeur of Owaneco, IL and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins

He was preceded in death by his parents, father-in-law and mother-in-law: Mike and Dorothy Banko Johnson, brother: Paul (Gloria) Kocurek, sister: Laura (Val) Reffett, brothers-in-law: Arnold Morrissey, Lloyd Cowgill, and Larry Spinner, neice: Susie Spinner and Great Niece: Rachael Spinner

He had served his country in the United States Navy from 1955-1959.  While driving for Cavallo Bus Line, he had driven over one million miles without an accident; many of the miles to Branson, which lead to many family trips there.  He was also fortunate to have driven to the 2002 winter olympic games in Salt Lake City, Utah.  He was a wonderful husband, father and grandfather and loved spending time with his family. All of his grandkids knew to go to grandpa Aime for any flavor of gum, as he always chewed lots of gum after giving up smoking 30 years ago.  He loved driving the tour busses and meeting people, working crossword puzzles and reading books.  He will be missed for his witty sense of humor and his great laugh.

Visitation will be from 10:00 a.m. until 12:00 p.m. on Thursday, June 2, 2016 at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Taylorville, IL. Funeral service will be held at 12:00 p.m. on Thursday, June 2, 2016 at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Taylorville with Father Mariadas Chatla officiating. Burial will follow at Oak Hill Cemetery, Taylorville, IL.

Memorials may be made to: The Family’s wishes

Arrangements by Sutton Memorial Home, Taylorville, IllinoisSign our on-line guestbook at www.suttonmemorialhome.com. 

Vicki House, 67, of Auburn, passed away at 6:30 p.m., Thursday, May 26, 2016 at Auburn Nursing & Rehabilitation Center in Auburn, Illinois.

Vicki was born on May 1, 1949 in Bluffs, Illinois, the daughter of Clyde and Louella Bonds Taylor. She married Bruce House, and he preceded her in death. Vicki was a member of Owaneco United Methodist Church. She attended EIU and earned her Bachelor’s Degree, which allowed her to work as a Speech and Language Pathologist for Mid-State Special Education. Vicki retired in 2014. She was a member of the Women of the Moose, NEA/IEA/TEA and CREATE where she served as secretary for many years. In her spare time she enjoyed reading and painting.

Vicki is survived by her son, Gabe House, and his wife Amber, of Auburn; her future granddaughter: Raelynn Taylor House; sister: Carole Sandman of Canton; nephews: Thomas Sandman, wife Susan, and Dan Sandman, wife Gina, all of Canton.

She was preceded in death by her parents.

A funeral service to celebrate her life will be held at 3:00 p.m., Wednesday, June 1, 2016, at Owaneco United Methodist Church. Pastor Betty Coffey will officiate. Visitation will be held from 1:00 – 3:00 p.m., also in the church. Memorials may be made in Vicki’s honor to: a college fund for her granddaughter Raelynn, or the American Cancer Society.

McClure Funeral Home & Cremation Services is in charge of arrangements.

Memories of Vicki or condolences to her family may be sent online at: www.mcclurefuneralhome.com.  

Richard E. Norsen Sr., 78 of Stonington passed away at 7:30am on Sunday, May 22, 2016 in his home.  He was born on August 12, 1937 in Marseilles, Illinois, the son of Lawrence E. and Bessie L. Richardson Norsen.  On July 12, 1958 he married Patricia Herzog in Ottawa, Illinois.  He graduated from Marseilles High School and attended the University of Illinois.  Mr. Norsen retired from Caterpillar and previously worked for 35 years as an executive in the trucking industry.   He was an avid gardener, wood worker, and enjoyed hunting and the outdoors.  He attended the Old Stonington Baptist Church.

Richard is survived by his wife: Patricia Norsen of Stonington; children: Pamela Bullard of Stonington, Richard E. Norsen Jr. (Jennifer) of Des Moines Iowa, Craig A Norsen (Cynthia) of St. Charles, Missouri; grandchildren: Kenneth Hoffman (Mana) of Los Angeles, California, Jessica Norsen of Taylorville, Andrew Norsen of Colombia, Missouri, Morgan Norsen of Decatur, and Sara Norsen of St. Charles; step grandchildren: Emily, Ashton, and Jessie Schell; sister: Kathryn Webel (Dr. Max) of Bayliss, Illinois; sister-in-law: Elizabeth Norsen of Marseilles, Illinois; faithful companion: Yaddie.  He was preceded in death by his parents and brother: Lawrence E. Norsen Jr.

A memorial service will be held at 11:30am on Thursday, May 26, 2016 in the Old Stonington Baptist Church with Rev. Larry Mason officiating.  Visitation will be from 10:00am until 11:30 at the church.  Memorials may be made to the Old Stonington Baptist Church.  McClure Funeral Home and Cremation Services is assisting the family with arrangements.  Memories of Richard or condolences to the family may be left online at www.mcclurefuneralhome.com

Ella McKinney, 80 of Taylorville passed away on Saturday, May 21, 2016 at 9:40 a.m. at Life’s Journey in Taylorville. She was born on May 31, 1935 in Edinburg, IL the Daughter of James and Grace (Minson) Perry. She married Jesse McKinney on March 11, 1952 in Edinburg and he later preceded her in death on April 19, 2009.  She worked at Illinois Consolidated, Hopper Paper Company, Sangamon Paper Company and she retired from JcPennys. Ella was very active with the Taylorville Art Association and she was a Talented artist and Painter. She was also very creative in many other ways making clothes, sewing and decorating her home. 

Surviving are her Daughters: Kathy Hafliger of Energy, IL; Carol (Gary) Brown of Taylorville, IL; Stephanie (Brian) Farrar of Taylorville, IL; Grandchildren: Sara (Pat) Harrison of Kincaid, IL; Kenya (Jack) Garner of Herrin, IL; Rachel (Kevin) Montgomery of Springfield, IL; Josh (Kelly) Prince of Tovey, IL; Larry Matthew Prince and Fiancé Heather Smith of Herrin, IL; Cory Hagan of Pinckneyville, IL; Boyd Jackson of Taylorville, IL; Great-Grandchildren: Ashley, Alex, Haley, Hayden and Nevin; Brother: Bill (Jackie) Perry of Taylorville, IL; Several Nieces, Nephews and Cousins. She was preceded in death by her Parents, Husband, Son-in-Law: Steve Hafliger; Brothers: Harold Perry, Jimmy Perry, Sisters: Melba Weaver, Vera Jones and Nadine Vandeveer.

Visitation will be held Tuesday, May 24, 2016 from 10:00-11:00 a.m. at Sutton Memorial Home in Taylorville, IL.  Funeral services will be held on Tuesday, May 24, 2016 at 11:00 a.m. at Sutton Memorial Home in Taylorville with Rev. Norman Moses Officiating. Burial will be in Oak Hill Cemetery in Taylorville.

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

Sign on-line guest book at www.suttonmemorialhome.com. 

Mr. Donald P. Smith, 79, of rural Jeisyville passed away at home Friday, May 20, 2016 at 8:17 A.M.

He was born in Taylorville, IL March 22, 1937 the son of Paul R. and Lucille (Schroyer) Smith.

Donald married Janice M. Burba on August 25, 1956 in Kincaid, IL.  She preceded him in death September 28, 2006.

Mr. Smith was a member of the Midland United Methodist Church in Kincaid, IL.  He was a life-long farmer.  Don liked camping, winters in Texas and staying at his home away from home in Florida.  He loved spending time with his family and working in his shed.

Surviving are sons Mark (wife Sheila) Smith of Ft. Pierce, FL., Craig (wife Dena) Smith of Freeport, IL., daughter Susan (husband John) Townsley of St. Charles, MO., son Brian (wife Tina) Smith of Kincaid, IL., grandchildren Mindy (husband Brian) Lukens, Kim Smith, Adam (wife Sarah) Smith, Brianne (husband Ray) Borgman, Garret (wife Ji-Hyun) Smith, Brandon Smith, Steven Townsley, Emily Townsley, Eric Smith, Nick Smith, brother Larry (wife Mary Lee) Smith of Kincaid, IL., sister Crella Welge of Pittsboro, N.C., great-grandchildren Ben Lukens, Dylan Lukens, Samuel Jacob Lukens, Jonathan Borgman, William Borgman, Noah Smith, Olivia Smith, Hailey Smith and Greyson Smith, along with several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, wife Janice, infant son Dale Allen Smith and a brother Ronald W. Smith.

Funeral services will be held at 10:00 A.M. Tuesday, May 24, 2016 at Midland United Methodist Church.  Pastor Linda Vonck will officiate.  Burial will follow in Oak Hill Cemetery, Taylorville, IL.  Visitation for Mr. Smith will be held from 5:00 P.M. to 8:00 P.M. Monday, May 23^rd at Masterson Funeral Home, Kincaid.  Memorials may be made to the Midland United Methodist Church, Kincaid, IL

Billy Russell King, 92, of Taylorville passed away at 12:18am on Saturday, May 21, 2016 at Life’s Journey Senior Living in Taylorville.  He was born on November 18, 1923 in Taylorville, the son of Samuel and Margretta Jones King.  Billy was an Army Veteran of World War II where he fought in the Battle of the Bulge.  He graduated from Millikin University with a business degree and worked many years as a cook at King’s Café, and retired from Caterpillar after 27 years.  Billy owned and raised many quarter horses over the years, and was an avid Cubs fan, tap dancer, and trumpet player.  He was a member of Mound Lodge #122 A.F.& A.M. and the Ansar Shrine.  He was a beloved uncle to his nieces and nephews and will be remembered for his sense of humor and high moral standard. 

Billy is survived by his nieces and nephew: Gretta Siemers (William), Molly Alaria (Larry), and Sam Merriman all of Taylorville; great nieces and nephews: Russell Rahar, Rachel Rahar, Austin Alaria, and Lance Alaria; great-great niece: Elizabeth Rahar; and cousin: Wanda Peddie of Houston, Texas.  He was preceded in death by his parents; brother: Robert King and his wife Nelva; and sister: Norma Merriman and her husband Derald.

Private family services will be held and burial will take place at Oak Hill Cemetery in Taylorville.  McClure Funeral Home and Cremation Services in Taylorville is assisting the family with arrangements.  Memories of Billy, or condolences to the family may be left online at www.mcclurefuneralhome.com.

Clarence E. Hayes, 91 of Taylorville passed away on Monday, May 16, 2016 at 10:24 p.m. at Memorial Medical Center in Springfield. He was born on November 7, 1924 in Staunton, IL the Son of Edward and Minnie (Saatkamp) Hayes. He married Helen Grosenheider on February 7, 1948 in Springfield, IL and she later preceded him on February 29, 1980 and then he married Hazel Prasun on April 17, 1982 and she also preceded him in death on May 21, 2001. Clarence worked as a Terminal and traffic manager at Rinker freight lines and later the owner, and then retired from Georgia Pacific. He was also a member of Trinity Lutheran Church in Taylorville, he graduated from Staunton Community High School, was a loving Father and  avid Cub Fan.    

Surviving are his Sons: James (Geraldine) Hayes of San Bernardino, CA; Mark Otto (Rhonda) Hayes of Elkhart, IL; Brian (Kristy) Hayes of Nokomis, IL; Daughters: Barbara Hayes of Taylorville, IL; Marilyn (Ronald) Garmon of Taylorville, IL; Step-Children: Jack (Sue) Prasun of Moweaqua, IL; Martha (Gary) Norville of Taylorville, IL; Bob (Terri) Prasun of Windsor, IL; Grandchildren: Scott Garmon of Tampa, FL; Shannon (Garmon) Bates; Kevin Hayes; Heather (Hayes) Smith all of Taylorville, IL. Tina (Hayes) Sanchez & Christopher Hayes of San Bernardino, CA; Katie (Hayes) Cole & Delaney Hayes of Nokomis, IL; Eighteen Great-Grandchildren; Step-Grandchildren: Terri Dahms & Andrew Johnson; Amy Bruno; Mindy Smith & Mary Beth Harris; Kim Whitlock; Greg & Matthew Perry; Shaun, Mike & Tanner Prasun; Monica Hankins; Twenty Seven Step-Great Grandchildren; Three Step Great-Great Grandchildren; Brother: Willard (Pattie) Hays of Columbus, OH; Several Nieces and Nephews.  He was preceded in death by his Parents, both Wives, 2 Step-Children: Barbara Perry, Glenda Beckmeier and his Sister: Viola Hayes.

Visitation will be held Wednesday, May 18, 2016 from 4:00-7:00 p.m. at Sutton Memorial Home in Taylorville, IL.  Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, May 18 2016 at 7:00 p.m. at Sutton Memorial Home in Taylorville with Pastor Rodney Blomquist Officiating. Inurnment will be held at a later date in Elmwood Cemetery in Litchfield, IL with military graveside honors.

Memorials may be made to Trinity Lutheran Church 1010 N. Webster St. Taylorville, IL 62568.

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

Sign on-line guest book at www.suttonmemorialhome.com. 

Billy Benjamin Jack, 86 of Taylorville passed away on Tuesday, May 17, 2016 at 12:14 p.m. at his residence in Taylorville. He was born March 6, 1930 in Decatur, IL the Son of Wm and Marie Blanche (Simpson) Jack. He married Delores Cattinari on September 20, 1951 in Kenosha, WI.  He was a retired Coal Miner at the Peabody Mines and a veteran of the United States Navy During the Korean Conflict.

Surviving are his Wife Delores Cattinari-Jack of Taylorville, IL; Daughter: Theresa Mosley of Taylorville, IL; Sister: Kathlene Robinette of Litchfield, IL; Several  Nieces, Nephews and Cousins. He was preceded in death by his Son: William J. Jack, and his Parents.  

Visitation will be held Saturday, May 21, 2016 from 11:00-12:00 Noon at Sutton Memorial Home in Taylorville, IL.  Funeral services will be held on Saturday, May 21, 2016 at 12:00 Noon at Sutton Memorial Home in Taylorville with Pastor Tim Moats Officiating. Burial will be in Oak Hill Cemetery in Taylorville with military graveside honors.

Memorials may be made to Joy Assembly Church 214 N. Main St. Stonington, IL 62567

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

Sign on-line guest book at www.suttonmemorialhome.com. 

Sharon T. Griffiths, 72 of Taylorville passed away at 6:20 PM on Monday, May 16, 2016 at her home with her family by her side.

She was born on March 31, 1944 at Springfield the daughter of Elena Mary Marie (Kimble) Gifford. Sharon married Larry C. Griffiths on June 14, 1961 at Springfield. She was preceded in death by her mother; Grandparents, Paul and Goldie Day.

Sharon was a homemaker. She also worked as a realtor with Century 21 for several years. She was an excellent baker and enjoyed decorating and genealogy.

Survivors: Husband, Larry C. Griffiths of Taylorville, IL; Daughter, Gina Davis of St. Peter, MO; Sons, Larry (Emily) Griffiths of Taylorville, IL, Sonny (Marifel) Griffiths of Mesa, AZ and Jamey Griffiths of Taylorville, IL; 6 Grandchildren, Simon Davis, Esther Davis, Samuel Davis, Ryan Griffiths, Noah Griffiths, and Wendy Griffiths; Sisters, Mary Lou Shanks Harris (Kirby) of Taylorville, IL, Barbara Shanks Lancaster (Buzz) of Kincaid, IL, Bonnie Shanks Buesking (Greg) of Mt. Auburn, IL, Anita Shanks Badman (Billy) of Palmer, IL, Vicki Shanks Gaillard (Greg) of Waverly, IL, Brenda Kimble of Bloomington, IL and Sandra Lancaster of Taylorville, IL; Brothers, Pete Shanks (Mary) of Charleston, IL and Steven Gifford (Jacqueline) of Bloomington, IL; Many Nieces and Nephews.

Funeral services will be held at 1:00 PM on Friday, May 20, 2016 at Shafer-Perfetti Funeral Home with Pastor Deby Klein officiating. Burial will follow at Oak Hill Cemetery, Taylorville. Visitation will be held on Friday from 11:00 AM until time of service at the funeral home.

Condolences to her family may be left at www.perfettifuneralhome.com

Shafer-Perfetti Funeral Home and Cremation Service in Taylorville is in charge of arrangements.

Jean E. Marshall Ellis, 97, of Sarasota, FL, formerly of Taylorville, IL, passed quietly into God’s loving hands at 6:30pm, on May 15, 2016 at Tidewell Hospice in Sarasota FL.  She was born on October 3, 1918 in Taylorville, the daughter of Harry A. and Iva Lopossa Brubeck.  She graduated from Taylorville High School in 1936.  She married Alpha E. Marshall for forty-five years until his death in 1983.  She later married Quentin Ellis, he passed away in 1988. 

She leaves behind her daughter: Carol Marshall Wiest of Sarasota, FL; grandsons: Damian M. Wiest of Chicago, IL, and Aron M. Wiest of Peoria, IL; sister: Harriet White and her family; brother: James F. Brubeck (Barbie) and his family; nephews: Dave Brubeck and Harry Brubeck; nieces: Sheryl Klemm, Kathy Lindsey, Carla Readhead, Beth Markwell, Becky Nicol, Denise Mears, Terri Payne, and Brenda Williams; and great nephews and nieces.  She was preceded in death by her parents, 2 husbands, and daughter: Harriet Marshall Hadges. 

Jean was proud to have served her county during World War II, working for the federal government as an administrative assistant on the Manhattan Bomb Project in Decatur, Illinois.  She also worked for the State of Illinois in the Department of Revenue.  She was a member of the Taylorville County Club and the Gulf Gate Golf Club in Sarasota where she scored a hole in one.  She played in several bridge clubs and was recognized as an accomplished player.  She was active in Democratic politics in Taylorville and Sarasota.  She was a member of the First United Methodist Church in Taylorville and the Vamo United Methodist Church in Sarasota. 

Funeral services will be held at 11:00am, on Friday, May 20, 2016 at McClure Funeral Home in Taylorville with Rev. Becky Nicol officiating.  Visitation will be held one hour prior to services on Friday.  Burial will be in the Grove City Cemetery in rural Mt. Auburn.  Memorials may be made to Chaddock Children’s Foundation, a not-for-profit foundation to support Chaddock’s ministry for troubled children and families (www.chaddock.org) 

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

Elizabeth Ann Pratt, 55 of Taylorville passed away on Tuesday, May 10, 2016 at 1:57 a.m. at Memorial Medical Center  in Springfield. She was born January 2, 1961 in Taylorville, IL the Daughter of John and Wanda (Ashby) Christian. She married Thomas Pratt on March 2, 1984 in Springfield, IL.  She worked as a secretary at Horace Mann in Springfield, IL.

Surviving are her Husband: Thomas Pratt of Taylorville, IL; Daughter: Ashley Pratt of Taylorville, IL; Son: Josh Pratt of Decatur, IL; Grandchildren: Declan Pratt of Decatur, IL and Kaylie Woodard of Decatur, IL; Sister: Jody Christian of Taylorville, IL; Brothers: John (Angela) Christian of Taylorville, IL; Several Nieces, Nephews and Cousins. She was preceded in death by her Parents, Brother Jeff Christian and Niece Leslie Black.

Visitation will be held Friday, May 13, 2016 from 5:00-7:00 p.m. at Sutton Memorial Home in Taylorville, IL.  There will be no service and there will be a graveside inurnment service at a later date in Anderson Cemetery in Rural Palmer, IL.

Memorials may be made to the American Diabetes Association 1701 North Beauregard Street Alexandria, VA 22311

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

Sign on-line guest book at www.suttonmemorialhome.com. 

Larry G. Saulsbery, 72 of Mt. Auburn passed away on Wednesday, May 11, 2016 at 2:40 a.m. at his residence in Mt. Auburn. He was born August 11, 1943 in Mt. Auburn, IL the Son of William and Bonnie (Jordan) Saulsbery. He married Linda Gilpin on February 22, 1964 in Hillsboro, IL.  He worked as a tool crib attendant at Fiat Allis and then retired from ADM. Larry was a cardinal fan and was one of the better deer hunters in Christian County.

Surviving are his Wife: Linda of Mt. Auburn, IL; Daughters: Diana (Richard) Musgrave of Strawberry Plains, TN and Debra (Elmer) Dunaway of Owaneco, IL; Son: Jeffery (Jackie) Saulsbery of Clinton, IL; Grandchildren: Ashley, Aaron, Holly, Billy, Ben, Branden, Danielle, Mary and Alyssa; Four Great-Grandchildren; Twin Brother: Jerry (Jean) Saulsbery of Dawson, IL; Several Nieces, Nephews and Cousins; Special friends Dale and Vickie Simmons. He was preceded in death by his Parents, Sister: Marybell Meyer, Brother: Thomas William Saulsbery.

Due to Larry’s request there will be no services and inurnment at a later date.

Memorials may be made to the Donors choice.

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

Sign on-line guest book at www.suttonmemorialhome.com. 

Stephen Elwood Stuart, 61, of rural Mt. Auburn, passed away at 8:34 a.m. Monday, May 9, 2016, at home surrounded by his family. Steve had courageously battled stage 4 cancer for 7 ½ years. He was born July 8, 1954, in Taylorville, Illinois, to J. Elwood and Julia Ellen (Hobbs) Stuart.

Steve graduated from Mt. Auburn High School in 1972. He remained proud of the fact this his closest friends were his “class of ‘72” buddies that he had grown up with and who throughout his life and his battle with cancer, were never too far from their best friend’s side.

Steve was a devoted son, husband, father and brother. He married Marilyn Patton on September 1, 1973. His family was the source of his joy and he will be remembered fondly for his one-of-a-kind sense of humor and sparkling smile. He will be remembered for his selfless attitude, doing whatever he could to take care of the girls in his life, as well as being one of most dedicated friends and employees a person could have. To his mom, he was her morning wake-up call and coffee buddy, to his wife, his best friend, and to his girls – their biggest fan and forever their Daddy.

He had a love for animals and the outdoors and always appreciated “the scenic drive home.” He volunteered for many years with Christian County 4-H as a leader of the Mt. Auburn Rustler’s 4-H Club. He was an advocate for agriculture, passionate in his support for 4-H and FFA, and some of his favorite memories were spent in the field with Kenny Hohenstein who often joked that between the two of them, they made one good man. He was an active member of the Mt. Auburn United Methodist Church and had a strong faith in God.

Steve’s sanctuary was his home where he enjoyed his garden, planting trees and flowers and taking care of his many birds, and many thanks to their special neighbors – Mike, Heather and Ashleigh Hall – who kept up yard work when most needed.

He was a testament to many as he battled terminal cancer with a smile on his face. Throughout years of surgeries, treatments and doctors’ appointments, he always managed to fight back and defy the odds stacked against him. His motto was “there’s always someone worse off than me.” He remained the bravest of patients up until his final breath.

The family wishes to thank the Mt. Auburn community for their overwhelming support and love, along with their many friends and family members.

Steve is survived by his wife of 42 years, Marilyn; two daughters, Karen (Dean) Beck of Edinburg and Rachel (Sam) Peabody of Taylorville; mother, Julia Stuart of Taylorville; brother, Bill (Shirley) Stuart of Mt. Auburn; one aunt, and several cousins, sister-in-law’s, brother-in-law’s and nieces and nephews. Steve was proceeded in death by his father, Elwood. 

The visitation will be held on Saturday, May 14, from 10:00am until 1:00pm at the Mt. Auburn United Methodist Church. The memorial service will be held at 1:00pm at the church with Rev. George Heinemann and Rev. Bob Cook officiating.  Burial will follow at the Grove City Cemetery. Memorials in Steve’s name can be made to the Mt. Auburn Rustler’s 4-H Club or the Christian County Senior Citizen’s Center.

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

Dorothy V. King, 82 of Morrisonville passed away at 5:50 PM on Sunday, May 8, 2016 at Meadow Manor Skilled Nursing and Rehabilitation Center.

She was born on July 16, 1933 at Loogootee, IL the daughter of Roy and Tessie Irene (Hunter) Stolte. She married Robert E. King on December 12, 1951 at Vandalia; he preceded her in death on October 2, 2009; She was also preceded in death by her parents; Son, Donald Leroy King; Sister, Audrey Baker; Brother, Terry Stolte.

Dorothy was a bus driver for the Morrisonville School District for 27 years. She had also worked at Wal-Mart. She was one of the founding members of the Morrisonville Community Ambulance for which she was also a volunteer. Dorothy served as a volunteer with the Morrisonville-Palmer Fire Department. She was a member of the Red Hats, Christian County Quilters Guild and enjoyed baking , cooking and making quilts.

Survivors: Daughter, Eugenia “Jeanne” L. (husband, Donald) Vancil of Taylorville, IL; Sons, Gary R. (wife, Connie) King of Taylorville, IL, Jerry M. King of Iowa and Kevin L. King of Morrisonville, IL; Grandchildren, Brad (Kristina) Vancil, Kristine (David) Horn, Gary King Jr. (Magan Hallowell), Ryan (Colleen) King, Nicholas King, Japeth (Alexis) King, Robert King and Caitlin Finley; Great Grandchildren Madelyn Horn, Elijah Horn, Abigail Vancil, Nathan Vancil and Delaney King; Sister, Kay (husband, Wayne) Duree of Bradford, PA; Brothers, James W. (Bette) Stolte of Vandalia, IL and Larry (Peggy) Stolte of St. James, IL; many Nieces and Nephews.

Funeral services will be held at 6:30 PM on Friday, May 13, 2016 at Perfetti Funeral Home in Morrisonville with Rev. Chad Foster officiating. Burial will follow on Saturday at Sidener Cemetery in St. Elmo. Visitation will be held on Friday from 3:00 PM until time of service at Perfetti Funeral Home in Morrisonville.

Condolences to her family may be left at www.perfettifuneralhome.com

Perfetti Funeral Home in Morrisonville is in charge of arrangements.

Glenda Marie Kalka, 82 of Taylorville passed away at 3:57 PM on Saturday, May 7, 2016 at Memorial Medical Center in Springfield.

She was born on March 1, 1934 at Taylorville the daughter of Orville and Marie (Stephens) Griffin Sr. She married Frank Kalka Jr. on April 8, 1950 at Hillsboro; he preceded her in death on October 12, 2011. She was also preceded in death by her parents, Great Grandson, Koty Cook and her brother, Orville Griffin Jr.

Glenda was secretary for Frank Kalka and Son Construction. She had also worked as a secretary for the State of Illinois and Sheets Plumbing in Hot Springs, AR. She had been co-owner of Bill’s Toasty Shop. Glenda was a member of Eagles 1425 Auxiliary, Eagles Hall of Fame and lifetime member of the PTA.

Survivors: Son, Dale (wife, Monita) Kalka of Taylorville, IL; Daughter, Tineal (husband, Kenneth) Fisher of Taylorville, IL; Grandchildren, Dayla (Thomas) Balster, Shanon (David) Wagner, Barrett (Tiffany) Kalka, Crystal Cook and Kent (Kim) Cook; Great Grandchildren, Cassandra (Brandon) Rush, Savanah Dunn, Sidney Wagner, Mickayla Cook, Vincent Cook, Amanda Balster, Brooke Balster, Zachary Kalka and Colton Kalka; Great Great Grandchildren, Ryleigh Rush, Kaden Rush and Kason Cook; Sister in law, Ina Griffin of Taylorville, IL; Several Nieces and Nephews.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 AM on Tuesday, May 10, 2016 at Shafer-Perfetti Funeral Home in Taylorville with Pastor Becky Lembke officiating. Burial will follow at Oak Hill Cemetery, Taylorville. Visitation will be held on Tuesday from 9:30 AM until time of service at the funeral home.

Condolences to her family may be left at www.perfettifuneralhome.com

Shafer-Perfetti Funeral Home in Taylorville is in charge of arrangements.

George Joseph Leitshuh Jr., 78 of Taylorville passed away on Saturday, April 30, 2016 at 10:05 p.m. at Capital Care Center in Springfield, IL. He was born on February 7, 1938 in Muncie, IN the Son of George Joseph and Alice (O’Toole) Leitshuh Sr. He married Lynnda Ann Dean on July 13, 1968 in Oak Forest, IL .  He was a retired Truck Driver.

Surviving are his Wife: Lynnda of Taylorville; Daughters: Amy Leitshuh of Seattle, WA; Melanie (Curtis) Ryen of Taylorville, IL; Grandchildren: Elijah (Stacie) Sowder, Victoria Sowder, Alexis Ryen, Morgan Ryen, Mathea Ryen; Great-Grandson: Christopher Sowder; Sister: Jane Harnett of Bloomington, IN; Several Nieces, Nephews and Cousins. He was preceded in death by his Parents.

Visitation will be held Saturday, May 14, 2016 from 2:00-3:00 p.m. at The Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses 3540 Lincoln Tr. Taylorville, IL 62568.  Funeral services will be held on Saturday, May 14, 2016 at 3:00 p.m. at The Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses 3540 Lincoln Tr. Taylorville, IL 62568 with Robert Mitchell Officiating. Inurnment will be held at a later date..

Memorials may be made to World Wide Work C/O The Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses 3540 Lincoln Tr. Taylorville, IL 62568

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

Sign on-line guest book at www.suttonmemorialhome.com. 

Donald Dean Greffe went home to be with the Lord on May 6, 2016, at age 96.  He left this world in springtime after seeing the crops sprout for another year on the farm that has been in his family for over 170 years.  He anticipated that there would be a red tractor awaiting him in heaven.  His life on earth had been dedicated to faith, family, friends, farming and freedom.
     Don was born on June 20, 1919, on the family farm near Sharpsburg, Illinois.  His parents were Cyrus Dean and Abbie Jane Greffe, and he grew up on the small farm with his eight siblings, five brothers and three sisters.  Earl, Esther, Dale, Karl, twin brother Ronald and Virginia (Cowell) predeceased Don.  Rachel (Wheeler) and Virgil survive him.  All the kids worked the farm and other jobs to supplement the family.  The children attended the Possum Point one-room school.  Like many other young men of the time, Don left high school before graduation, but he returned to get his GED the same year his daughter graduated from high school. The Greffe family was an important part of Bethel Baptist Church, which was just down the road from the farm.  As a teenager, Don began helping his father dig graves in several cemeteries. Don resumed that after his military service, eventually digging over a thousand graves “three full spades deep” in all types of weather.   
     Don worked various farm jobs before entering the United States Army in 1941 at age 21.  His one year infantry tour was extended to four years after war was declared.  Initially in the 33rd Division, Don was later transferred to the 129th Combat Team deployed as part of the 37th Division.  His unit was part of the combat troops fighting in the Pacific Theater.  His distinguished service record includes three Bronze Stars, two with V device for valor; Combat Infantry Badge; Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal with Bronze Arrowhead and Campaign Stars; and Philippine Liberation Medal with bronze service stars.  He was discharged as a Technical Sergeant (E-7).  When the Korean War broke out, Don reentered military service as part of the Illinois Army National Guard, remaining until 1963.  Don never forgot the soldiers he served with and those who were injured and lost their life in service to their country.  He was a member of the VFW and American Legion and toured the country visiting museums and memorials honoring veterans.  He returned with his wife to the Philippines to honor the men he served with.  He reminded all his family that freedom is not free.
     Don resumed farming and digging graves in 1946 and farmed for 68 more years before taking “early retirement” at age 94.  He married Grace Heberling on January 26, 1947, and they had one child Annette (Spears).  Don and Grace worked hard as a farm family and moved into Taylorville when Annette was in high school.  They dedicated themselves to the church and family when not farming.  Don was of the generation who could do about any type of trade and was not afraid to tackle any project at home or on the farm.  Their large garden was a source of fresh vegetables for family and friends.  His only grandchild, Donald Dean Spears, was named in his honor.  Donald is married to Nicole, and two great granddaughters, Meredith and Chloe, brought Don great joy.
     Don had an amazing memory until the day he passed, regularly doing Sudoku puzzles and recalling in detail dates, people, and places from long ago.  He had a kind and gentle spirit and reflected the faith in God that comes from living through the depression, serving in combat of war, and over seven decades of farming.  His inspiration will live on in those who knew him.
     Services will be held at Bethel Baptist Church on Wednesday, May 11 at 11 a.m. with Pastor Ted Marrinan officiating.  Visitation will be at the church from 9-11 a.m. prior to the service.  Shafer-Perfetti Funeral Home is in charge of funeral arrangements.  Memorials can be given to Bethel Baptist Church or the Taylorville VFW. 

Doris Maxine VandenBergh, 90, of Taylorville passed away at 6:45 a.m., Tuesday, May 3, 2016 at Taylorville Memorial Hospital. Maxine worked as a clerk for My Store, Kroger, Walmart, and A&P for many years, and she also drove for the Christian County Mental Health Workshop. She was a member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church, as well as Catholic Daughters of America. In her spare time, Maxine enjoyed sewing and painting, and she loved attending her grandchildren’s football games.

Maxine was born on November 16, 1925 in Pana, the daughter of Harry and Iva (Hudson) Vaughn. She married Constant VandenBergh on August 30, 1945 in Terra Haute, IN, and he preceded her in death on June 10, 1991.

Maxine is survived by her three children: Maurice “Mo” (Elaine) VandenBergh of Avon, IN; Donald (Nella) VandenBergh of Taylorville; Diane VandenBergh of Harvel, IL; grandchildren: Jacqueline VandenBergh, Katherine VandenBergh, Maurice VandenBergh II, Archie VandenBergh, Trudy Schmedeke, Laticia VandenBergh, Alana VandenBergh; six great grandchildren; and five great-great grandchildren.

Along with her husband, Maxine was preceded in death by her parents.

Funeral mass will be held at 11:00 a.m., Saturday, May 7, 2016, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, with Msgr. David Lantz officiating. Visitation will be held one hour prior. Burial will take place in Oak Hill Cemetery. Memorials may be made in her honor to the Donor’s Choice. McClure Funeral Home and Cremation Services is in charge of arrangements.

Memories of Maxine or condolences to the family may be sent online at: www.mcclurefuneralhome.com.