Betty J. Sutton, 86 of Taylorville, passed away at 8:33 am on Tuesday, May 27, 2025, at her home. She was born on May 2, 1939, in Springfield, IL, the daughter of Charles Russell and Dorothy Louise (Boehme) Smothers. She married Larry Sutton on October 23, 1966, in Pawnee, IL, and he preceded her in death on September 19, 2022. Betty worked at Illinois Bell, Consolidated Communications and was co-owner and operator of Sutton Ambulance Service and Sutton Memorial Home for over 50 years.

Betty had a smile that lit up the room and a heart for serving people. She was kind yet stubborn, giving yet frugal, and compassionate to many grieving families that walked through the doors of the funeral home. She enjoyed a Dixie Bell from Dairy Queen with her friend Betty Fines, a trip to St. Louis with the Eson’s and above all, loved her family, especially her great grandchildren. 

She is survived by her daughter: Lori (Donald) Bettis of Taylorville, IL and son: Aaron (Tammy) Sutton of Springfield, IL as well as three grandsons: Austin (Miranda) Peters, Evan (Megan) Peters and Ryan (Delanie) Peters all of Taylorville, IL; great grandchildren: Allison and Hudson Peters and Colbie, Collins, and Kendall Peters also of Taylorville, IL and Sister: Bonnie Hart of Decatur, IL. Betty was preceded in death by her parents, husband, great granddaughter: Kinsley Peters, a sister and brother-in-law: Roberta and Dallas Stout, brother-in law: John Hart, and a brother in infancy.

Visitation will be held on Saturday, May 31, 2025, from 9:00-12:00 a.m. in Sutton Memorial Home in Taylorville, IL with the funeral service beginning at 12:00 also at Sutton Memorial Home in Taylorville, IL, with Pastor Gerald McPhillips and Pastor Don Bettis officiating. Interment will be immediately following in Oak Hill Cemetery in Taylorville, IL.

We would like to extend a special thank you to the wonderful caregivers she had the last couple of weeks of her life.

Memorials may be made to Visionway Christian School.

Sutton Memorial Home is in charge of arrangements.

David Eugene Loyd, 71, of Illiopolis, passed away on Friday, May 23, 2025, at 12:15 a.m. at HSHS St. John’s Hospital in Springfield.  He was born on December 16, 1953, in Springfield, the son of Donald and Margaret (Ferguson) Loyd.  He married Linda Simmons on March 7, 1981, in Springfield.  Linda preceded him in death on February 8, 2021. 

Surviving are his daughters: Paula Hartman of Park Hills, MO; Peggy (Tyler) Horne of Illiopolis, IL; a son, Brian Loyd of Illiopolis, IL; ten grandchildren; 12 great-grandchildren; his siblings, Linda (John) Morris of Georgetown, IL, Debra Loyd of Springfield, IL, Anita (Wayne) Marquis of Springfield, IL, Danny (Kim) Loyd of Springfield, IL, Marilyn (Dave) Mcubbin, Carolyn (Dave) Messmore of Springfield, IL; several nieces, nephews, and cousins

He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Linda; his brother Sam; and a son-in-law, James. 

David was an avid St. Louis Cardinals fan.  He enjoyed traveling to Indiana and Oklahoma for camping trips. He also enjoyed riding his trike around locally and listening to Elvis Presley. 

The family will receive family and friends on Saturday, May 31, 2025, from 10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. at McClure Funeral Home in Taylorville.   A funeral service will follow the visitation at McClure Funeral Home in Taylorville.  Interment will be at 10:00 a.m. on Monday, June 2, 2025, at Oak Hill Cemetery in Taylorville.  In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society.

Cherri Lee McCullough, 77 of Taylorville, passed away on Sunday, May 25, 2025, at Springfield Memorial Hospital.  She was born on December 28, 1947, in Joliet, the daughter of Charles William Peet Sr. and Eileen D. (Naughter) Peet.  She married Gary McCullough in July of 1970, and they divorced in 1994. After graduating from Eastern Illinois University with her bachelor's degree in education she worked as an elementary school teacher in Taylorville from 1969 until 1996, starting at Memorial School and finishing her teaching career at South Elementary School. While teaching full time she went back to school to fulfill a lifelong dream of becoming a paramedic working both at McClure and Dunn’s Ambulance Services for several years. After retiring from teaching, Cherri worked at Kennedy Metal Products for over 16 years until her retirement. 

Cherri had a special place in her heart for animals of all types.  She volunteered at several area shelters and was a founding member of the W.I.L.D. organization in Springfield.  She took pride in working with her dog, Paxton, doing scent work and dock diving.  Horses also were special to Cherri; she enjoyed riding and was a proud horse owner.  Additionally, she enjoyed spending time working in her yard, mowing and tending to the landscape.  Cherri was a talented musician sharing her talents in area nursing homes and playing in several different praise bands over the years.  One of her proudest moments came in 2010 when she selflessly donated a kidney to a friend in need.  Her friends and family will miss her quick wit and funny sense of humor.

She is survived by her children: Jacki Slightom of Smithton, Kristi McTaggart (Stan) of Pawnee, and Tad McCullough (Kara) of Taylorville; grandchildren:  Davis McTaggart, Mae McTaggart, Averi McCullough, and Alyvia McCullough; brother: Charles Peet Jr. of Scottsdale, Arizona; and her 3 dogs: Paxton, Pumpkin, and Dominik. She was preceded in death by her parents.

In accordance with her wishes, Cherri’s body will be donated to scientific research. A celebration of life will be held at a later date. The family would love for any memorial donations made in honor of Cherri to go to the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, Gift of Hope or any area animal shelter.  McClure Funeral Home and Cremation Services in Taylorville is assisting the family with arrangements. 

Cynthia J. “Cindy” Taylor, 64 of Kincaid, passed away on Saturday, May 24, 2025, in her home.  She was born on June 6, 1960, in Springfield, the daughter of Richard and Martha (Weder) Burris.  She married Joe L. Taylor III in 1982, and he preceded her in death on October 3, 2020.  Cindy retired from the Internal Revenue Service where she worked as a revenue officer.  She enjoyed gardening and flowers and loved and cared for many pets throughout the years.  More than anything she loved her family.

She is survived by her sons: Dustin Taylor (Kyla) of McKinney, Texas, and Cody Taylor of Charleston, South Carolina; grandchildren: Steele, Ava Marie, and Isabella; and brother: Ken Weder.  She was preceded in death by her parents and husband. 

Cindy will be cremated, and her family will host a celebration of life at a later date.  McClure Funeral Home and Cremation Services in Taylorville is assisting the family with arrangements. 

Ronald Herbert Dallstream, 72 of Taylorville, passed away on Wednesday, May 21, 2025, at Sunrise of Highland Park.  He was born on February 11, 1953, in Minneapolis, Minnesota, the son of Guy and Rosalia (Bolfing) Dallstream.  He married Susan J. Hausladen on June 1, 1974, in Springfield, Missouri, and she preceded him in death on May 5, 2024.  Ron earned his bachelor’s degree in chemistry as well as a minor in botany and worked for many years as a senior chemist at Peabody Mine #10.  Following the closing of the coal mine, Ron worked as the administrator at Taylorville Care Center and retired from Caterpillar where he worked as a quality supervisor.  Ron gave back to his community in many ways including various roles with the Boy Scouts of America for 40 years, a member of the First Presbyterian Church, and the Taylorville Optimist Club where he enjoyed playing the role of Santa at the annual community children’s party.  Over the years he also enjoyed playing in the church softball league and being active with the men’s club at his church.  He was a voracious reader of all types of literature, but his favorites were westerns. He enjoyed tinkering in his workshop, be it replacing small motors or practicing his carpentry skills.  He also maintained a prolific garden for decades, sharing the fruits of it with family, friends, and neighbors. 

He is survived by his children: Karen Rieken of St. Peters, Missouri, Andrew Dallstream (Kym) of Gurnee, and Daniel Dallstream of Bloomingdale; grandchildren: Freya Rieken, Aaron Dallstream, and Keira Dallstream; siblings: Samuel Dallstream (Carlotta) of Millersburg, Michigan, Mary Jacquin (Thomas) of Tucson, Arizona, Renee Simpson of Willard, Missouri and Rose Sisco of Alton, Missouri; as well as several nieces, nephews, and cousins.  He was preceded in death by his parents; wife; twin-brother: Charles Dallstream; and brother-in-law: Clifford Sisco.

A visitation for Ron will be held from 4:00 p.m. until 6:00 p.m. on Friday, May 30, 2025 at McClure Funeral Home in Taylorville.  Cremation rites will be accorded following the visitation and a graveside service will take place at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday at Oak Grove Cemetery in St. Louis Missouri.  Memorials may be made to Boy Scout Troop 4495 in Taylorville.  McClure Funeral Home and Cremation Services in Taylorville is assisting the family with arrangements. 

Mary Lou Gartshore, 86, of Taylorville, passed away peacefully on May 20, 2025, at home surrounded by her family.

Mary Lou was born on November 20, 1938, in Springfield to Mary E (Pathel) and Rowley McMurray. She graduated from Taylorville High School (class of 1957) and worked for many years at Franklin Life Insurance Company in Springfield.  

Mary Lou was known for her love of music and dancing, her artistic abilities, her quick wit, and her storytelling skills. She enjoyed playing dominos and cards with her many friends. Her greatest joy was her family, who will miss her dearly.

She is survived by her husband, Bob Gartshore; her children Jeaneene Hughes, Springfield, Mike (Valerie) Gartshore, Stonington, and Rob (Debbie) Gartshore, Wheaton; her sons-in-law, Randy Sheley, Taylorville, and David Wells (Vicky Shulte), Tovey; brother David (Becky) McMurray, Duluth, GA; and her 10 grandchildren, 4 great-grandchildren, and several nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her daughters, Susan Wells and Jeanette Sheley, her brother Jerry McMurray, and her parents.

Visitation will be held from 5-7pm on Tuesday May 27, 2025, at Sutton Memorial Home in Taylorville. A funeral service will begin at 7pm. Private interment will be held at a later date in Glen Haven Memorial Gardens.

Memorial donations can be made to the Neuroendocrine Tumor Research Foundation (https://netrf.org/get-involved/give-now/) or the Hydrocephalus Association (https://www.hydroassoc.org/give/). 

Lewis Myrval Gardner, age 70, of Morrisonville, IL, passed away on Tuesday May 20, 2025. He was born in Springfield, IL, on February 11, 1955, to Richard M. and Ina Jedlicka Gardner.

Lewis graduated from Taylorville High School with the class of 1973. He attended Rose Hulman Institute of Technology, Millikin University, and Albert Ludwig Universität Freiburg, Germany, graduating with a degree in mathematics. Upon completing his education, Lewis moved to Milwaukee, WI, where he spent his career as a computer programmer in the banking industry. He worked for Marine Bank Corporation, Bank One, and JPMorgan Chase, and later retired in 2007, when he returned to Christian County.

He is survived by his wife, Judy Gardner, brother, Ted (Rena) Gardner, sister, Sally (Eric) Kozak, one nephew, Lucas R. (Miranda) Gardner, and his niece, Caroline Claire (Matthew) Kilwin. He was preceded in death by his parents.

Per, Lewis’ wishes, cremation rites have been accorded, and a memorial service will be held on Saturday, May 31, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at Perfetti-Assalley Funeral Home in Morrisonville.

Memorials in his honor may be made to the Morrisonville Community Ambulance Service.

Perfetti-Assalley Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements. Please sign our online guestbook at assalleyfuneralhomes.com.

Bernard “Bernie” W. Grundy, 65, of Peoria (formerly of Morrisonville) passed away May 18, 2025, at the Richard L. Owen Hospice Home in Peoria.

Bernie was born November 12, 1959, in Morrisonville to the late Wayne Linus Grundy and Anna Margaret (Young) Grundy. He was a graduate of Morrisonville High School. Bernie married Tracy Pharis, and she preceded him in death on October 28, 2024.

Bernie worked at Botkin Lumber Company in Taylorville for 30 years. He also enjoyed farming with his family in and around Morrisonville. Bernie was a big person with a big heart. He was always laughing and always ready to share a joke with someone.

He is survived by his siblings: Evie (Greg) Hager of Taylorville, Patricia (Steve) Beske of Arizona, Richard (Rochelle) Grundy of Morrisonville, Elizabeth (Robert) Wemple of Taylorville, and Amanda (Mark) Wayman of Palmer. Sister-in-law: Natalie (Bill) Gingrey of Edwards, Illinois, and Lynnette (Mike) Maske.  Mother-in-law: Joan (John) Stahley.  He is also survived by his “bonus kids” Christina Bray & Kyle Gingrey, as well as many cousins, nieces and nephews.

Bernie is preceded in death by his parents, wife: Tracy Grundy, and daughter; Megan DeFoor.

Graveside Services for Bernie will be held Friday May 30th, 2025, at 11 A.M. in Morrisonville Cemetery, where he will be laid to rest with his wife, Tracy and daughter, Megan. Memorials in Bernie’s honor can be made to the Humane Society of Logan County.

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

Troy Charles “Charlie” Tolan, 37, of Taylorville, IL, passed away on May 19, 2025, at Taylorville Memorial Hospital. Troy was born on March 27, 1988, in Marietta, GA, to Max Randal Tolan and Vicki Sue (Rigg) Myers. 

He was a business manager and artist, and he loved reading in his spare time.

Troy was known for his quirky, charming, personality. In his early years, you could always find him in a tree, or some, peculiar place wrapped up in a book or pleasing his little sister with a “friendly” game of Mario Kart where Yoshi and Princess Peach would battle it to the finish line of rainbow road, Yoshi always won. 

He never met a stranger. During his time, later in life, back in Georgia, he was known for his eclectic art. Whether it be, Free Art Fridays, where he would join the Athen’s art district and hide pieces of art around various parts of the town to find, to creating logos for various businesses, or just simply whipping out his sketchbook at dinner, and sending you home with your name in epic graffiti, lettering. His talent was unmatched.

Troy is survived by his fiancé: Trisha Lynn Walden of Taylorville, IL; his mother: Vicki (Matt) Myers of Morrisonville, IL; his father: Max Randal (Leann) Tolan, of Springfield, IL; maternal grandmother: Shirley Rigg of Lincoln, IL; sister: Jackie Tolan of Edinburg, IL; aunts, uncles, cousins, and his two beloved cats, Nacho and Mac. 

He was preceded in death by his maternal grandfather, Charles H. Rigg, and his paternal grandparents, Max and Eleanor Tolan. 

A visitation will be held on Friday, May 23, 2025, from 10:00-11:00 a.m. at Morrisonville United Methodist Church. A funeral service will begin at 11:00 a.m. with Pastor Jeff Van Dyke officiating. Interment will follow at Morrisonville Cemetery. 

Perfetti – Assalley Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.

Jerry Simmons, 64, of Hewittville, IL, left this world on Thursday, May 15, 2025, and is now reunited with his parents in heaven.

Jerry was born to Amos and Sue Simmons on January 30, 1961. He was a proud veteran who served in the Army and became a truck driver after his service. He worked for 22 years for Blackland Trucking and later started driving for FS Morrisonville. Jerry also drove part time for JRN Cab Co.

For relaxation, Jerry enjoyed his Friday nights out with his brothers. They enjoyed having some beers, shooting pool, visiting their friends, and usually would have a few John Waynes before heading home. He will be missed.

Jerry leaves behind his brothers: Pete and Raymond Simmons of Hewittville; Tim Simmons of Kentucky; an uncle; as well as many cousins, nieces, and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents.

A visitation will be held on Thursday, May 22, 2025, from 9:00-11:00 a.m. at Sutton Memorial Home in Taylorville, IL. A funeral service will begin at 11:00 a.m. and interment will follow at Harpers Ferry Cemetery.

In Jerry’s honor, memorials may be made to the Christian County Animal Control.

Sutton Memorial Home is assisting the family with arrangements.

 Kay Bone aged 79 of Greenville, formerly of Maroa, Illinois, passed away peacefully at home 4:12 p.m. Wednesday, May 14, 2025.

Funeral services will be held at 1:00 p.m. Thursday, May 22, 2025, at the Donnell-Wiegand Funeral Home with Pastor Glenn Kreider officiating. Interment will follow in Mt. Auburn Cemetery. Visitation will be held from 11:00 a.m. until service time Thursday at Donnell – Wiegand Funeral Home. Memorials in Kay's memory to Lemuel Rhodes Cancer Foundation.

Wynette Kay Wikoff, the daughter of Ross Bernard Wikoff and Audrey Alice (Thrift) Wykoff, was born on Friday May 25, 1945, in Decatur, Illinois. Kay was raised in Maroa, Illinois, where she attended the public schools and graduated from Maroa High School with the Class of 1963. Kay went on to Illinois State University where she graduated with her BS in Education in 1968. Kay taught Home Economics in Litchfield, Illinois until 1970 when she moved to Mulberry Grove High School and continued teaching there until 1973. She taught in Palm Beach County High School in Florida for 7 years, moving to Charlotte County High School where she taught until her retirement in 2000.

Kay and Lowell T. Bone were united in marriage on August 15, 1975, at Kay’s home Church, the Maroa Christian Church. Kay and Lowell made their home in Florida building their house on Paar Circle on the waterfront. They enjoyed Florida and their friends there in the winter but always returned to the Bone family farm in Greenville during morel mushroom season. They enjoyed their large garden and selling produce here in Greenville’s Farmer’s Market near the tracks and from their roadside stand. Kay and Lowell enjoyed girls high school basketball games especially the Teutopolis team and often spent 4-5 evenings a week supporting the team during their season, for many years. They had a special bond with the girls and Kay received an autographed wooden shoe from them at Lowell’s passing.

Kay and Lowell travelled extensively out west, including North and South Dakota and Utah, where Lowell enjoyed hunting big game and Kay cooked delicious meals for their friends.

Kay is survived by two of her brothers: Roger L. Wykoff and wife Sheila of Maroa, Rickie L. Wykoff and wife Nancy, of Maroa, many nieces, nephews, and a host of cousins. Kay is also survived by Laura McMann, who Kay referred to as their “almost daughter,” of Sellersville, PA and her son Griffin McMann. Kay and Lowell also became honorary grandparents and great grandparents to Kayla Ridings, Bobby Stief, and Hannah Stief who shared their lives on their acreages across the street from each other. She is also survived by friends James Lynch and Jason Stief, who started working for Lowell when young, and who became friends for life, and by Jane Newman, Tammy Stief and many other dear friends.

Kay is preceded in death by her parents, her brother Ronald E. Wikoff and his wife Elaine, and by her husband of 49 years, Lowell, who passed away on December 7, 2024.

Share online memories of Kay and pictures by visiting www.donnellwiegand.com

Willard Parrish Jr., 83, of Taylorville, went to be with the Lord on Tuesday, May 13, 2025, at his home in Bertinetti Lake. He was born on June 10, 1941, in Houston, TX, son of the late Estelle and Willard Parrish Sr. Willard graduated from Taylorville High School in 1959 and continued his education at Millikin University.  He went on to work for Georgia Pacific, and from there he worked for Commonwealth Edison for 27 years as an electrical supervisor before retiring in 1995.

Willard was a free mason for 50 years. He had many hobbies which included working in his large vegetable garden, tending to his yard, and cooking. His family will miss his chicken and noodles, which he always made from scratch, along with his homemade “Best Ever” delicious fudge. He and his wife enjoyed their daily coffee at McDonalds with all their local friends.

He is survived by his beautiful high school sweetheart wife, Kay Hannon, whom he felt blessed to have married on January 23, 1961. They had been married 64 years. Willard and Kay had been inseparable since they met in school. They went on to start their family by having their first child, a son, Joe Parrish, and then two daughters, Susan Parrish Wilson (Larry) of Fairview, TX, and Bonita Parrish Gurley (Vince) of Allen, TX.

In addition to his wife and children, Willard is also survived by his siblings: Diane Beatty (Cliff) of Taylorville, IL; brother: David Parrish (Joyce) of Madison, Wisconsin; Pam Stanko of Sherman, IL; seven grandchildren: Brittany Wilson Hill (Kevin), Michael Wilson (Jenny), Matthew Wilson (Bella), Grant Gurley (Samantha), Channing McCormick (Seth), Christian Gurley, Brooke Coltharp (Tyler) and ten great-grandchildren, all of Texas, as well as several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his grandparents, parents, his great-grandson, Forrest, and his brother-in-law, Frank Stanko.

A private graveside service will be held on Saturday, May 24, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at Oak Hill Cemetery in Taylorville. Memorials in Willard’s honor may be made to the donor’s choice.

Shafer-Perfetti & Assalley Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements. Please sign our online guestbook at assalleyfuneralhomes.com.

Candice “Candy” Law, 68, of Pana passed away Wednesday, May 14, 2025 in her home, surrounded by her family.  She was born July 29, 1956 in Pana, IL to the late Wallace & Ruth (Eggerman) Lesko.  Candy married Kerwin Law on September 20, 1985 in Buckeye Church and he survives in Pana.

Candy received an associate degree from Lake Land College and worked as a paraprofessional at Pana Elementary School for 30 years.  She was a member of the First Church of the Nazarene, Pana, where she taught children’s church for 25 years.  She loved animals, crafts and iced coffee.  But, most importantly, she loved spending time with her grandchildren.

In addition to her husband, Candy is survived by her children: Christopher (Heidi) Gould, Pana, IL; Heather (Jake) Phillips, Flora, IL and Amy (Dustin) Amos, Pana, IL; grandchildren: Carlee (Colten) Day, Lauren Phillips, Emma Stephens, Toby Stephens, Payslee Amos & Harrison Law; great grandchildren: Callie & Clara and brother,  Joe Lesko, Los Angeles, CA.  In addition to her parents, she was also preceded in death by her sister, Joyce Laker.

Funeral services for Candy will be held on Tuesday, May 20, 2025 at 10:00 a.m. in the First Church of the Nazarene, Pana with Jake Phillips and Todd Holman officiating.  Burial will be in Mound Cemetery, Pana.  Visitation will be Monday, May 19, 2025 from 5:00-7:00 p.m. in McCracken-Dean Funeral Home.

Memorials in Candy’s honor may be made to the First Church of the Nazarene, Pana for Children’s Church or the Christian County Animal Shelter and will be accepted by McCracken-Dean Funeral Home who is assisting the family.

www.mdfh.com

Donald Carl Taylor, formerly of Decatur, IL and Maxwell, IA, passed away the morning of May 12, 2025. He was born on December 12, 1948, to Harry and Gertrude Taylor, he grew up in Elwin, IL as the eldest of five siblings. He worked at the Bridgestone plant in Decatur until it shuttered in 2001, eventually relocating to Maxwell, IA to work at the Des Moines plant until retiring at the end of 2010.

He is preceded in death by his parents, as well as brother David and sisters Alice and Marianne. He is survived by his brother, Douglas, sister-in-law Marcy (Alice), several children, grandchildren and other relatives and friends.

Carl will be cremated and there are no services planned.

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

Alex E Kidd, 18, of Taylorville, passed away on Monday, May 5, 2025, at Taylorville Memorial Hospital.  He was born on May 31, 2006, in Springfield, the son of Ronald Kidd Jr. and Emily (Hilbert) Kidd.  Alex graduated from Taylorville High School.  He enjoyed playing video games, shopping and trips to St. Jude.  Most of all he enjoyed spending time with his family and his dog Abby. 

He is survived by his parents: Ron and Emily Kidd Jr.; grandmothers: Donna Davis and Betty Kidd; aunts: Ashley Baker, Barbie Brandt, Janie Leach, Shirley Hartman, Megan Davis (Danny); and cousins: Bentlee Baker, Preston Baker. Charlie Brandt, and Halie Brandt.  He was preceded in death by his grandfather: Ronald Kidd Sr., and his great grandparents.

A funeral service for Alex will be held at 5:00 p.m. on Wednesday, May 14^th at McClure Funeral Home with Pastor Gerald McPhillips officiating.  The visitation will take place from 3:00 p.m. until 5:00 p.m. on Wednesday at the funeral home.  Memorials may be made to the Alex Kidd family.  McClure Funeral Home and Cremation Services in Taylorville is assisting the family with arrangements. 

Carole Louise (Painter) Kindermann, while surrounded by her family, went home to be with her Lord, on Thursday, May 1, 2025.

Carole exemplified tremendous generosity and a heart of service to those in need. She served her community for more than 30 years as a Licensed Practical Nurse, much of that time in Intensive Care, providing skilled and compassionate care to countless patients and their families.  She served her church (Taylorville Evangelical Free) for many years by facilitating and providing meals to comfort grieving families. Carole had the gift of hospitality - often insisting that visitors to her home take food or treats when they left. She was a masterful baker who loved making pies, especially for her doctors. An enthusiastic member of the Taylorville High School Class of 1971 Reunion Committee, she took great care to ensure her classmates were warmly welcomed and felt included as they reconnected throughout the years. 

Carole loved her family and friends fiercely, especially her husband of 43 years, Robert (Bob) Kindermann and her beloved grandsons. She marked special moments with her grandsons or “Sunshine Boys” by singing and reading to them, earning her the name "Dah Sunshine." 

Above all, she saw people in need and responded in love because she loved Jesus. Her joyful spirit and willingness to serve in any capacity created a lasting impact on the many lives she touched. 

Carole is survived by her husband, Robert (Bob) Kindermann; children Melissa (husband Jamie) Brandenburg, Louis (wife Suzanne) Kindermann, Will (wife Rachel) Kindermann, Chris (girlfriend Allie Stell) Kindermann, Rebecca Kindermann, and Victor Kindermann; grandsons Bo, Luke and Thomas Drew Brandenburg, and Greyson and Maverick Kindermann, sister Donna (husband John) Records, as well as adored nephews, niece, great nephews, great nieces, and cousins.

Carole was preceded in death by her parents William and Jessie Painter, and her sister Elizabeth "Betty" Blome.

Honoring her wishes, a private graveside service was held on May 7, 2025. 

Memorial donations may be made to the Taylorville Evangelical Free Church, or the Cancer Care Specialists of Illinois Charitable Fund, in Decatur, Illinois.

Sutton Memorial Home assisted the family with arrangements. Please sign our online guestbook at suttonmemorialhomes.com

Janice Kaye Kettelkamp, 60, died Monday, May 5th, 2025. She was born January 30th, 1965, in Columbia, MO, the daughter of Ralph and Catherine Cockrum. She spent her childhood with her best friend and brother, Wes, and grew up riding horses, listening to radio programs on her stereo, and attending the Church of Christ. She lived in Houston, MO before studying fashion merchandising and business at Columbia College and the University of Missouri and later worked at Von Maur. 

She married Kirk Kettelkamp on June 29th, 1991, at First Presbyterian Church in Decatur. Together they pursued a shared dream of family, raising four kids in Taylorville, IL. Janice was known for her love of baking and gardening, as well as for her devotion to God and her family. She had an extraordinary attention to detail, an eye for beauty, and used her gifts and wisdom to create a special life for her family. 

In 2007, Janice survived a car accident, sustaining an injury to her spinal cord. Surrounded by tremendous love, support and prayers from her community, she not only survived, but lived a vibrant 18 years with her family, full of happy memories, dinners cooked with her guidance, family vacations and joy. 

She was an active member of P.E.O. and the church and lived a life devoted to service. Faced with adversity and physical challenges beyond the norm, she demonstrated stoicism, a gentle spirit, and an aura of grace that was unwavering. 

She is preceded in death by her parents, Ralph and Catherine. She is survived by her husband Kirk, and her beloved children Kate, Ben, Meg, Will; her brother Wes (Debbie) Cockrum; and sister, Chelsea (Bryce) Brown. 

Funeral services will be held Saturday, May 17th at 11:00 am at the First United Methodist Church in Taylorville, and all family and friends are welcome for a 2:00 pm meal at the Kettelkamp home. In lieu of memorial donations, please send flowers. McClure Funeral Home and Cremation Services in Taylorville is assisting the family with arrangements. 

John Frank Sullivan, 75, of Nokomis, IL, and Huntington Beach, CA, passed away Thursday morning, April 24, 2025, at Hoag Hospital in Newport Beach, CA. John was born on June 25, 1949, in Hillsboro, IL, the son of John Roy and Margorie Rosella (Schmedeke) Sullivan.

John was a corporal in the U.S. Marine Corps and served in the fire, crash, and rescue division. He worked in the insurance industry for over 40 years and especially enjoyed working for Boeing. He enjoyed road trips, playing games, baseball, fishing, and collecting John Deere tractors. He was a beloved dad, brother, uncle, cousin, and papa to his grandchildren. John was formerly married to Janelle (Hessie) Sullivan of Huntington Beach, CA, and they remained friends for years.

John is survived by his only child: Shawna Kunz of Huntington Beach, CA; grandchildren: Kelsea, Katie, and Dakota Kunz; sister: Shirley Hand of Hillsboro, IL; brother: Paul (Ricki) Sullivan of Witt, IL; as well as many nieces, nephews, and cousins. He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, David Sullivan.

A visitation will be held on Saturday, May 17, 2025, from 11:00-1:00 p.m. at Perfetti-Assalley Funeral Home in Morrisonville, IL. A funeral service will begin at 1:00 p.m., and interment with military honors will follow at Morrisonville Cemetery.

Memorials in his honor may be made to the American Cancer Society.

Perfetti-Assalley Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements. Please sign our online guestbook at assalleyfuneralhomes.com.

Karen Hall Cox, 62, of Taylorville passed away May 2, 2025, at Taylorville Memorial Hospital.

She was born on March 21, 1963, in Taylorville, the daughter of Leo Durbin and Jeanette (Alcorn) Durbin. Karen was a graduate of Taylorville High School, class of 1980. Karen worked as a waitress and bartender at McCarty’s and other varies restaurants throughout her life. Karen loved crafting and was skilled in candle making. She married Brad Cox on November 6, 2015, in Taylorville and he preceded her in death in 2020. Before meeting Brad, Karen had a long-time companion and father to her children; Dale Wingo and he preceded her death in 2009.

Karen is survived by her children: Justin (Danielle) Hall of Taylorville, Jerica Hall of Taylorville, and Kellie Wingo of Taylorville. Grandchildren: Emylie Hall, Easton Hall, Mason Hall, Connor Wingo-Samson, Bella Tucker and Asher Samson, all of Taylorville. Siblings: Leonard “Linnie” Durbin and Charnell Beard, both of Taylorville. She is also survived by many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

She is preceded in death by her parents, husband: Brad Cox, long-time companion Dale Wingo, and twin sister, Sharen Durbin in childhood.

Per Karen’s wishes, cremation rites are to be accorded with a Celebration of Life to be held at a later date. Memorials in Karen’s honor can be made to the family in care of Sutton Memorial Home.

Sutton Memorial Home in Taylorville, Illinois is in charge of assisting the family with arrangements.

Dr. Robert Keith Etheridge, 97, of Taylorville, passed away peacefully on Thursday, May 1, 2025, at his home surrounded by his family. Dr. Etheridge, who went by “Keith” and “Doc” was born November 1, 1927, in Greeley, CO, the son of Absalom and Zula (DeBarr) Etheridge.  He married Reva Alice (Fort) Etheridge in 1956.  After 50 years of marriage Reva preceded Keith in death in 2006.

Dr. Etheridge’s surviving descendants include  his children, Ellen (George) Mozurkewich of Albuquerque, NM, Alice (George) Danilovich of Winfield, IL, and Thomas Etheridge of Taylorville; five grandchildren, Nadia (Mark Hilkert) Danilovich of Oak Park, IL; Nina Danilovich of Austin, TX, Nicholas (Summer) Danilovich of Naperville, IL, Daniel Mozurkewich of Chicago, IL, and David Mozurkewich of Albuquerque, NM; a great-grandchild, Sullivan Hilkert of Oak Park, IL.  Dr. Etheridge was preceded in death by his parents, his wife, Reva, and his brother, Dr. Laurence Etheridge. 

Dr. Etheridge graduated from Pana High School at age 17 in 1945, then enlisted in the Army Air Force in the waning months of World War II.  After leaving the army, he enrolled in Millikin University in Decatur, Illinois, and then attended the University of Illinois in Urbana-Champaign, where he earned his doctorate in veterinary medicine in 1953.  Dr. Etheridge was the founder of Etheridge Animal Hospital; he enjoyed a long career caring for Christian County’s farm animals and family pets.  Dr. Etheridge’s love for animals was boundless; he cherished the many animals and their humans he got to know through his work.  In his family life, Dr. Etheridge enjoyed a succession of canine companions, of whom the most recent was his beloved Chihuahua mix, Khloe.  In Dr. Etheridge’s retirement he enjoyed spending time outside on his farm in Palmer, cooking, genealogy, playing Bridge and Hearts, documenting his life experiences, visiting with his grandchildren, and watching the Fighting Illini and the St. Louis Cardinals. 

The family wishes to express their gratitude for the devoted care provided by Doc’s team of caregivers.  The family also wishes to express gratitude to Doc’s dear friends, Ted and Patty Chapman.

A celebration of life/graveside service will be held at Oak Hill Cemetery in Taylorville at 4 PM on Saturday, May 31, 2025.  In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Christian County YMCA, the National Multiple Sclerosis Society, or the Taylorville Public Schools Foundation.  Assalley Funeral Home in Taylorville is assisting the family with arrangements. 

Steven K. “Smoke” Hadowsky, 71, of Pana passed away peacefully on Wednesday, April 30, 2025 at 10:50 AM with his daughter by his side.  Funeral Services will be held on Monday, May 5, 2025 at 8:00 PM at Kennedy & Sons Funeral Home, Pana with Visitation beforehand from 6:00 PM until time of Service.  Inurnment will be in Calvary Cemetery, Pana at a later date.

He was born December 20, 1953 in Pana, Illinois the son of Ferdinand and Beulah (Koontz) Hadowsky.  He attended Sacred Heart School and was a 1972 graduate of Pana Senior High School.  After high school, Smoke worked at GSI in Assumption and then was an electrician for Pana Appliance and Electric Service, a business established by his father in the early 1950’s in which he carried on after his Dad’s retirement.

He enjoyed listening to music, dancing, playing pool, pitching horseshoes and never missed a Cubs game on the radio.  Smoke was a long time member of the Pana Eagles Club.  He dearly loved spending time with family and friends, and they loved spending time with him.  He was fun to be around, quick witted, life of the party, and never met a stranger.  

He is survived by his Daughter Stacia (Scott) Perry of Taylorville; Son Adam (Simone) Hadowsky of Pilot Point, Texas; Grandchildren Kirsten (Kirk) Hiltner, Kelsey (Ryan) Stark, Anna Hadowsky, Ben (Abby) Hadowsky; Sisters Sharon (Mike) Stortzum and Mary Rhodes; many Nieces and Nephews; Cousins and Friends; and Special Companion Bunita Higgins.  He is preceded in death by his Parents; Brothers:  Fred Hadowsky and Jan Hadowsky; Sisters:  Susie Mahnke and Patricia Clutter.  

The family is being served by Kennedy & Sons

CONDOLENCES MAY BE MADE AT WWW.KENNEDYPANA.NET

Peggy L. Frey, 82, of Taylorville, peacefully passed away Monday, April 28, 2025, at her residence surrounded by family.  Peggy was born April 29, 1942, in Edinburg, the daughter of Earl and Mary (Patton) Niemeyer. 

Surviving are her daughter, Janette McConnell of Taylorville; her grandchildren, Jessie McConnell, Brady McConnell, Kiersten Ittenbach, and Haylie Ittenbach; two great-grandsons; her brother, Thomas Niemeyer of Peoria; and her sister, Melinda (Bill) Crist of Edinburg; several nieces, nephews, and cousins.  She was preceded in death by her parents, her first husband, Neil Ittenbach; her second husband, John Frey; a son, Neil Allen Ittenbach; a brother, Billy Niemeyer; and a nephew. 

Peggy graduated from Edinburg High School in 1960.  Later in life, she worked as the executive secretary for the State of Illinois.  She was a member of Calvary Baptist Church of Taylorville.  She enjoyed crocheting, sewing, baking, and cake decorating during her younger years. 

Peggy’s wishes were to be cremated.  A graveside service will be held at Edinburg Cemetery on Saturday, May 17, 2025, at 1:30 p.m.  In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Calvary Baptist Church or to Shriners Hospital.  Sutton Memorial Home in Taylorville is assisting the family with arrangements. 

Carol Smith Donovan

Carol Smith Donovan

May 30, 1949 – April 28, 2025

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Carol Smith Donovan. Carol passed away peacefully while surrounded by family after a courageous battle with ALS. Those who knew Carol described her as a very special and remarkable woman.

Carol grew up in Taylorville, Illinois before she earned a degree in French at the University of Illinois at Champaign. She was a member of the University of Illinois Foundation for 25 years and served on the College of Liberal Arts & Sciences Alumni Board for four years.

After graduating, Carol resided for many years in River Forest, Illinois where she joined the Children’s Foundation and remained a member for 40 years. It was during these years that she began to delight many with her signature toffee. As the demand grew, she founded Smith & Donovan Confections.

Carol later joined the Republican State Central Committee where she served as the Vice Chairman for eight of those years. She represented Illinois’s 7th Congressional District for an impressive 21 years, from 1997 to 2018. During her tenure, she brought insightful leadership and tireless dedication to the party’s growth and success. She was actively involved in the Lincoln Series, an elite leadership training program that helps women learn the intricacies of serving in all levels of government. “Carol was a coach, a leader, and a strategist,” Jack Dorgan, former Chairman of the Illinois Republican Party who served with Ms. Donovan remarked about his relationship with her. “She was an incredible person, friend, and advisor.”
 

Through all her accomplishments she always said that family was of the most importance and cornerstone of her life. She was a masterful chef and loved to cook for her family and friends. You never knew if you would find her rolling noodles, baking pies and butter cookies or a quick batch of escargot or chateaubriand. She will be dearly missed by her life partner, Bill Kennedy; her son, Scott Suckow and his wife Melissa; her daughter, Emilie O’Neill and her husband Tony. Her legacy continues through her five cherished grandchildren: Oliver, Daphne, and Greta Suckow, and Caroline and Vivienne O’Neill, who brought immense joy to her life. She is survived by her sister Diane Savant, brother William Smith (Juanita), Aunt Joyce Kelley (Don), and many cousins, nieces and nephews. She is preceded in death by her parents William Sydney Smith and Frances Eloise Smith, and her beloved pets that she rescued throughout her life.

Her family is holding two services. A visitation will be held at First United Methodist Church in Taylorville, Illinois on May 4, 2025, from Noon to 2 pm with a funeral service at 2 pm. A celebration of life will be held at the University Club of Chicago on May 15th. Visitation will be from 2 pm to 3 pm with a service starting at 3 pm. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Carol’s name to The Children’s Foundation (http://www.tcfil.org/), reflecting her lifelong commitment to the well-being of children, or the Garrido Stray Rescue Foundation (https://www.garridostrayrescue.org/).