Berniece Effie Porch

Rapatee: Berniece Effie Porch, 97, of Rapatee, IL, passed away at 7:30 AM on Thursday, August 29, 2019 in Lafayette, IN. She was born on April 6, 1922 in Rapatee to Walter A. and Mabel C. (Johnson) Brashear. She married RL Porch on September 2, 1943 in Rapatee at her parents’ home. He preceded her in death in 2005.

Berniece was also preceded in death by her parents, one daughter, Patricia Sue Stier (John), one brother, Walter Brashear Jr., and three sisters: Lois Sandberg, Clara Michela, and Thelma Shreffler.

Surviving are one sister, Betty Stuckel of Rapatee; one son, Michael Alan (Leanne) Porch of Anderson, IN; six grandchildren: Rachel (Greg), Sarah “Sadie”, Noah, Enoch, Gabriel (Alaina), and Joshua (Rebekah); six great-grandchildren: Michael, Emilee, David, Sarah, Anna, and Isaac.

As a young girl Berniece began working for her father at Walt’s Grocery and Meats and later, as a young woman, she worked briefly at Stuckel’s Grocery in Rapatee. She was a member of the Union Church of Rapatee where she taught Sunday School, Vacation Bible School, and filled in as church pianist when needed. She was a member of the Rapatee Ladies Aid organization for many years and participated in many United Mine Workers events in support of her husband, RL.

Berniece enjoyed spending time with grandchildren and neighborhood children, travel and family camping, painting small rocks and scenery, playing piano at home (self-taught), doll collecting with her sisters, visiting and playing Dominoes with family and neighbors, flowers and gardening, hymns, country music, and other Nashville “stuff”, and cooking for family and friends. She enjoyed supplying meals for older family members and neighbors who could not do for themselves.

Visitation will be held from 6-8 PM, Friday, September 6th, and 10:00 AM, Saturday, September 7th prior to an 11:00 AM service at the Anderson-Sedgwick Funeral Home in Farmington, IL. Burial will follow at Oak Ridge Cemetery in Farmington. In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to the Union Church of Rapatee, the Galesburg Rescue Mission, or Gideons International. To view Berniece’s DVD or to express online condolences you may go to “sedgwickfuneralhomes.com”.

Alan D. Grady

Peoria – Alan D. Grady, 71, of Peoria, passed away at 10:00 PM on Sunday, August 18, 2019 at his sister Patricia’s residence. She and her husband, Richard, were by his side in his final moments. He was born on October 26, 1947 in Canton, IL to Orlistus “Bob” and Anna “Louise” (Moore) Grady. He met Carol Wiley, the love of his life, at Eureka college and married her on May 22, 1970 in Peoria, IL as soon as they’d both graduated. Carol preceded him in death in 2007 from cancer. Alan’s heart weakened after losing her. He still managed to summon enough strength to beat APL, an aggressive Leukemia, but though he achieved remission, the cancer weakened his heart further.

Alan was also preceded in death by his parents, one brother: Richard Grady, and two sisters: Janet Garcia and Mary Lee Grady.

Surviving are three children, Richard (Jen) Grady of Battle Creek, MI, Marcy (Doug) Miller of Naperville, IL, and Katherine (David) Stobaugh of Peoria, IL; four grandchildren, Kevin, Erin, Penelope, and Zachary; one brother, Robert (Emily) Grady of Trivoli; three sisters, Ella “Lou” (the late Larry) Little, Patricia (Richard) Bosley, and Sara (Luke) Starcevich; and brother-in law, Dana Becker. Family was everything to Alan and he was blessed to have many relatives close by, including those of his late wife who remained close with him after her passing.

Alan retired from Morton Buildings to work at the Grady’s Christmas Tree Farm. Having grown up on the farm he was an avid nature lover his whole life. He was most content when he was walking or mowing among the trees and listening to the many songbirds.  He wanted others to love the land as much as he did. Alan served as scoutmaster for the Scouts BSA and Girl Scouts of America for several decades and helped his three children, plus many more scouts, reach the highest ranks of Eagle Scout (BSA) and Gold Award (GSA.)

Both Alan and Carol were avid readers and instilled in their children a love of books. Alan read to the children so often in their formative years that even late in life he could still recite many Dr. Seuss books by heart, which he did for his grandchildren upon request, especially “The Grinch” and “The Lorax.” He was a loving father and a doting grandfather, showering the grandkids kids with love, books and Legos. He always made time to play a Kingdom Hearts video game, make a complex jigsaw puzzle or fly a kite.

Quick with a quip or a terrible pun, he was very clever and quick witted. Exceptionally deft with both math and word puzzles, he enjoyed solving complicated logic problems, riddles and encryptions. He had a secret silly side and loved to sing old songs or tell jokes. Musically gifted but never formally trained, he could play a piece of music on the piano after hearing it only once.

Alan served stateside in the Air Force during the Vietnam conflict, but was reluctant to take credit for serving his country. A humble man, he was proud when he saw random acts of kindness in the world. He often did them himself but only when he could remain anonymous.

Memorial service will be held at 11 AM on Saturday, August 31, 2019 at Anderson-Sedgwick Funeral Home in Farmington where a visitation will be held from 10-11 AM. Rev. Kevin VanTine will officiate. Burial of ashes will follow at Brunswick Cemetery in Rural Trivoli, IL. Cremation rites will be accorded with Anderson-Sedgwick Funeral Home in Farmington. Memorials can be made to the American Cancer Society or Scouts: BSA or Girl Scouts of America. To view Alan’s DVD or to make online condolences you may go to www.sedgwickfuneralhomes.com

Glenda Sue Studer

Glasford – Glenda Sue Studer, 61, of Glasford, passed away at 5:44 PM on Tuesday, August 20, 2019 at Unity Point Health Methodist. She was born on July 18, 1958 in Houma, Louisiana to Glen and Beverly (LeMay) Smith. She married Blaine Studer on Feburary 14, 1999 in Morton, IL, he survives.

 Also surviving are her parents, Glen and Beverly of Morton, IL; two sons, Steve Ziegenhorn of Geneseo, IL and Scott (Janel) Ziegenhorn of Eureka, IL; several grandchildren; three brothers, Glen (Leesa) Smith Jr. of Rock Island, IL, Raymond Smith of Eureka, IL, and Curtis (Sandy) Smith of Pekin, IL; one sister, Connie (Joe) Trefzger of Normal, IL; and her mother-in-law, Phylis Studer of Canton, IL.

 Glenda worked as a substitute for the Illini Bluffs School District in Glasford and also worked at Roth Grain for 20 years, where she met Blaine. She was a past member of Glen Oak Christian Church in Peoria and was treasurer for the Fulton County Abate Chapter. Glenda loved riding motorcycles, reading, and karaoke.

 A celebration of life will be held at 12 PM noon on Saturday, September 7, 2019 at White Chapel Church in rural Glasford. Pastor Rebecca Gearhart will officiate. Cremation rites will be accorded with Sedgwick Funeral Homes & Crematory in Canton, IL. In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to the Illini Bluffs School District. To make online condolences you may go to www.sedgwickfuneralhomes.com

Chester E. “Chet” Thurman

Canton – Chester E. “Chet” Thurman, 84, of Canton, passed away at 3:20 PM on Saturday, August 24, 2019 at The Loft. He was born on September 19, 1934 in Farmington to Charles and Hazel (Senders) Thurman. He married Shirley Crouse on July 3, 1956 in Canton; she survives.

Also surviving are two children, Michael Thurman of Farmington and Barb (Mark) Long of Canton; three grandchildren, Jason (Brooke) Thurman, Nicholas Stanley, and April (Joe) Allen; 13 great-grandchildren; one great-great-grandchild; one brother, Ralph (Ruth) Thurman of Norris; and one sister, Donna Thurman of Canton.

Chester was preceded in death by his parents, one brother, Raymond Thurman, and two sisters, Darlene Bugos and Joann Carrison.

Chester worked as a machinist for Caterpillar. He was a past member of the Norris United Methodist Church and a volunteer fire fighter for the Norris Fire Department for several years.

Chester served during the Korean War in the United States Navy.

 A celebration of life will be held at 2:00 PM on Saturday, September 7, 2019 at Franzoni Park in Norris, IL; where Military Honors will be conducted by the United States Navy. Cremation rites will be accorded with Sedgwick Funeral Homes & Crematory in Canton, IL. Memorials can be made to the Norris United Methodist Church or Alzheimer’s Association. To make online condolences you may go to www.sedgwickfuneralhomes.com

Rosalie A. Shumaker

Ellisville- Rosalie A. Shumaker, 81, of Ellisville, went to be with her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ at 6:12 AM Saturday August 24, 2019 at Sunset Manor in Canton.



She was born January 23, 1938 at Ray, IL; the daughter of Roy and Anna (Taylor) Learned. She married Lee Shumaker on February 14, 1957 in Bushnell. He survives along with four children, Leann (Marty) Garrett, William (June) Shumaker, Donna Shumaker, and Debbie Shumaker, all of Ellisville, several grandchildren, great grandchildren, and great great grandchildren, and two sisters, Marjorie Ellis and Anna Walton, both of Macomb. She was preceded in death by her parents, two brothers, and four sisters.



Rosalie was a member of the Ellisville Church of the Nazarene. She was a stay at home mom for her children’s young lives. She worked at the Blue Bell factory in Bushnell in her early years. She then drove a school bus for Spoon River Valley Schools, and worked at several nursing homes, last working at Prairie City Nursing Center. She loved participating in the Relay for Life events in Canton.



Services will be held at 12:00 Noon Tuesday August 27, 2019 at the Smithfield Church of the Nazarene, where visitation will be held 2 hours prior to services. Burial will be in Wiley Cemetery at rural Ellisville. Memorial contributions may be made to the Ellisville Church of the Nazarene, The Relay for Life, Hospice Compassus, or St. Jude. Condolences may be made at henrylange.com

Bruce E. Mercer

Name: Bruce E. Mercer Age:      67

Address:      Vermont, Illinois

Date of Death: Tuesday, August 20, 2019 Time:  8:55 pm    

Place: His cabin in rural Rushville, Illinois

Date of Birth: August 18, 1952 Place: Macomb, Illinois

Parents: Whitney and Mary Ellen (Hickle) Mercer

Married: Anita Bollinger November 11, 1974 in Browning, Illinois.  She survives.

Survivors: Wife-Anita Mercer of Vermont, IL
Son-Josh Mercer of Vermont, IL
Son-Adam (and Dawn) Mercer of Vermont, IL
Son-Brian (and Amy) Mercer of Vermont, IL
Mother-Mary Ellen Farwell of Astoria, IL
8 grandchildren:  Sydney Bainter, Noah Mercer, Jonas Mercer,
Benjamin Mercer, Easton Mercer, Jamison Mercer,
Briley Mercer, Max Mercer

Preceded by:    Father Whitney Mercer and Sister Jeanette Walters

Occupation: Caterpillar Tractor Company for 30 years.  He was also owner and operator
of Mercer’s on Main Bowling Center in Vermont, IL, operating it since 2010.

Memberships:  Bruce enjoyed bowling, golfing, and hunting.  He was a die-hard St. Louis Cardinal fan and Illinois Fighting Illini fan.  He loved his grandkids, spending time at the farm, and traveling

Services:   3:00 pm Sunday, August 25, 2019

Place:   Shawgo Memorial Home in Astoria, IL

Visitation:        1 hour prior to the service at the funeral home.

Interment: Vermont Cemetery, Vermont, IL

Memorials:   Vermont Fire Department or the Vermont Memorial Ball Park.

Services By:  Shawgo Memorial Home, Astoria, IL. Online condolences may be given to the family at www.shawgomemorialhome.org

Dennis D. Bowers Sr.

Princeton – Dennis D. Bowers Sr., 46, of Princeton, passed away at 7:01 AM on Tuesday, August 20, 2019 at his residence. He was born on March 21, 1973 in Marianna, PA to Charles and Connie (Cumberledge) Bowers Sr. He married Emily Hubbard on April 11, 2009 at Junction City, KS, she survives.

Also surviving is his mother, Connie; five children, Dennis Bowers Jr., Brittany Bowers both of Marianna, PA, Connor Bowers, McKayla Bartkiewicz and Morgan Bartkiewicz all of Princeton, IL; two brothers, Charlie Bowers Jr. and Lonnie Bowers both of Marianna, PA; one sister, Clarissa (Scott) Weaver of Marianna, PA; and his in law’s, John and Carol Hubbard of Dunfermline, IL.

Dennis is preceded in death by his father, Charles and one sister.

Dennis worked as an engine tech at Caterpillar in East Peoria, IL.

Dennis served in the Army for 13 years in Operation Iraq Freedom and Afghanistan.

Graveside service will be held at 11 AM on Saturday, August 24, 2019 at Greenwood Cemetery in Canton, IL. Pastor Ben Williamson will officiate. Memorials can be made to an Education Fund for His Children. To make online condolences you may go to www.sedgwickfuneralhomes.com

Carla E. Mason

Name: Carla E. Mason Age: 39

Address:   Table Grove, IL

Date of Death: Monday, August 19, 2019 Time:  9:37 pm    

Place: home

Date of Birth:      February 15, 1980 Place: Macomb, IL

Parents: Terry and Beth (Stracker) Mason

Survivors: Daughter- Aleena Joy Lossman of Table Grove, IL
Parents- Terry and Beth Mason of Table Grove, IL
Brother- Todd Mason of Table Grove, IL
Fiance- Miles Lossman of Table Grove, IL

Preceded by:    her grandparents

Occupation: She worked at Wal-Mart and at WIU in Food Services in Macomb, IL.

Memberships: Table Grove Community Church, where was youth leader for a period of time.

Services: 11 am on Thursday, August 22, 2019

Place: Shawgo Memorial Home in Astoria, IL

Officiating: Pastor Doug Krukewitt

Visitation:    1 hour prior to the services on Thursday.

Interment:    Harris Cemetery in Table Grove, IL

Memorials: Donors Choice

Services By:  Shawgo Memorial Home, Astoria, IL. Online condolences may be given to the family at www.shawgomemorialhome.org

M. Lucy Lightle

M. Lucy Lightle, 81, of Bryant, passed away at 10:00 PM on Thursday, August 8, 2019 at CentraCare Hospital in St. Cloud, Minnesota. She was born on June 22, 1938 in Winkle, IL to William and Ruth (Henry) Hamilton. She married Edward Lightle on July 4, 1955, In Bryant. He preceded her in death on February 27, 2017.

She was also preceded in death by her parents; step-father, Yewell “Tuk” Wilkins; two brothers, Bill and John Hamilton.

Surviving are two children, Sheree (Tom) Schmitz of Cold Spring, Minnesota and Gary (Paula) Lightle of St. David, IL; four grandchildren, Rod Lightle, Julie (Josh) Russell, Wendy (Lonnie) Drontle, and Joey Seward; four great-grandchildren, Austin (Alicia), Autumn, Ethan, and Eli; two great-great-grandchildren, Lily and Kairi; one brother, Richard (Edie) Hamilton; one sister, Deloris (Gary) Southwood.

Lucy was a retired hairdresser and seamstress. She enjoyed her grandchildren, sewing, and crafting. She also collected angel figurines. Lucy was a member of Shields Chapel United Methodist Church.

Graveside service will be held at 11:00 AM on Friday, August 23, 2019 at Maryville Cemetery in Bryant, IL. Rev. David Meader will officiate. A dinner will follow the service at American Grille in Canton. Cremation rites will be accorded. Memorials can be made to Shields Chapel United Methodist Church. To make online condolences you may go to www.sedgwickfuneralhomes.com

Charlotte E. Ohaver

Canton – Charlotte E. O’Haver, 88, of Canton, passed away at 5:05 PM on Monday, August 19, 2019 at Sunset Manor Nursing Home. She was born on May 13, 1931 in Canton to Roy V. and Mildred E. (Wood) Scalf.

Surviving is one son, Tim Phillips of Canton, one step-daughter, Lori Babb of Chillicothe, IL, and one brother, Ron (Dolores) Scalf of Tremont, IL.

Charlotte was preceded in death by her parents and one brother, Robert C. Scalf.

Charlotte worked as a secretary at the YMCA in Canton for several years. She was a member of the First Nazarene Church in Canton and was active with the Fulton County Playhouse. Charlotte was a loving mother to her children.

Burial of ashes will be held at 1:00 PM on Friday, September 6, 2019 at White Chapel Memory Gardens in Canton, IL. Rev. Dennis Owens will officiate. Cremation rites will be accorded with Sedgwick Funeral Homes & Crematory in Canton. Memorials can be made to the American Heart Association. To make online condolences you may go to www.sedgwickfuneralhomes.com

Frances Clinch-Roberts

Frances Clinch-Roberts, 94, of Farmington, passed away on Sunday, August 18, 2019. Services pending with Anderson-Sedgwick Funeral Home in Farmington.

Rickie Munson

Canton – Rickie Munson, 70, passed away on Thursday, August 15, 2019 at his residence.

He was born on April 11, 1949 in Fulton County to Jack and Francis (Johnson) Munson.

Surviving is his half-brother, James Barrow, one half-sister, Susan Slater, several cousins, and several nieces and nephews. Three special friends Terry Smith, and Bill Lowder, special cousins, Rose (Rev. Bert) (Hackett) Clarke, and Michell Bavard.

Preceding him in death is his father, grandfather by whom he was raised, Charles Elmer Allen, Grandmother Pollyann (Munson) Allen one half-brother, Sonny Johnson and one half-sister, Bonnie Fawcett.

Rickie worked as an over the road truck driver and a farm hand in Fulton County.  He enjoyed hunting mushrooms and picking asparagus.

Cremation rights have been accorded and a graveside burial of the ashes will be held Saturday, September 7, 2019, at 11 am, at the Cuba Cemetery. 

Oaks-Hines Funeral Home and Crematory in Canton has been entrusted with services.

Memorials can be made to the family C/O CEFCU.

To leave online condolences, please visit www.oakshinesfuneralhome.com

Joni Lynn Johnson

Canton – Joni Lynn Johnson, 39, of Canton, passed away at 7:40 AM on Friday, August 16, 2019 at her residence. She was born on February 28, 1980 in Canton to Steve and Anita (Fouts) Duckwiler. She married Nicholas Johnson on November 6, 1999 in Ipava, IL. He survives.

Also surviving are her parents, one son, Jackson Johnson of home; one sister, Julianna Duckwiler of Ipava.

Joni worked as a home health aide. She attended the Ipava United Presbyterian Church in Ipava, IL. Joni loved scrapbooking and photography.

Services will be held at 10 AM on Wednesday, August 21, 2019 at Sedgwick Funeral Homes & Crematory in Canton, IL. Rev. Martin Janicke will officiate. Burial will follow at Greenwood Cemetery in Canton, IL. Following the burial, family and friends are welcome to join at the Elks in Canton for a luncheon. A visitation will be held from 5-7 PM on Tuesday, August 20, 2019 at the funeral home. Memorials can be made to the Spoon River Pregnancy Center. To view Joni’s DVD or to make online condolences you may go to www.sedgwickfuneralhomes.com

Howard C. Roberts

Fairview – Howard C. Roberts, 84, of Fairview, passed away at 7:30 PM on Wednesday, August 14, 2019 at Heartland Health Care Center in Galesburg, IL. He was born on November 8, 1934 in Vermont, IL to Charlie Howard and Edna May (Fitch) Roberts. He married Marcia Marlene Dickerson on November 26, 1954 in Fairview, IL. She preceded him in death on February 11, 1991.

Howard was also preceded in death by his parents, one great-grandson, Ryder Armstrong, and one sister, Ramona Vance.

Surviving is one daughter, Joy (David) Mahr of Yates City; three grandchildren, Carissa (Aaron) Haning of Bloomington, Courtney (Kim) Mahr of Hanna City, and Caylin (Ryan) Armstrong of Monmouth; seven great-grandchildren, Jacob, Christine, and Caleb Mahr, Samuel and Johanna Haning, Tyler Armstrong, and Hazel Haning; one brother, William “Bill” (the late Roberta) Roberts of Canton; and his companion, Martha Fitch of Lewistown.

Howard retired from Caterpillar in 1984 after 31 years of service. He was a member of the Fairview American Legion Post 644, Masonic Lodge 350 in Fairview, and the Mohammad Shriners.

Howard served as a Sergeant in the United States Marine Corps.

Services will be held at 2:30 PM on Monday, August 19, 2019 at Sedgwick Funeral Homes & Crematory in Canton, IL where a visitation will be held from 1:30-2:30 PM. Rev. Kevin VanTine will officiate. Burial with military honors will follow at Wiley Cemetery in Ellisville, IL. Memorials can be made to St. Jude Children’s Hospital, Beacon of Hope Hospice, or Fairview Fire Department. To view Howard’s DVD or to make online condolences you may go to www.sedgwickfuneralhomes.com

Shirley S. Julian

Hanna City – Shirley S. Julian, 83, of Hanna City, passed away at 9:00 AM on Wednesday, August 14, 2019 at Courtyard Estates in Farmington, IL. She was born on April 10, 1936 in Villa Grove, IL to John and Leona (Gard) Pine. She married Irwin Julian on May 25, 1972 in Marshall, IL, he survives.

Also surviving are three children, Deb (Allan) Banfield, Cathy (Joe) Vires, Lorry (Craig) Anderson, three grandchildren, and one great-grandchild.

Shirley was preceded in death by her parents and one son, David Julian.

Shirley worked as a sales clerk and a ceramics teacher. She attended Creve Coeur Christian Church. Shirley enjoyed traveling, quilting, sewing, cake decorating, and making flower arrangements.

Services will be held at 1 PM on Tuesday, August 20, 2019 at Anderson-Sedgwick Funeral Home in Farmington, where a visitation will be held from 12-1 PM. Pastor John Plunkett will officiate. Cremation rites will be accorded with Anderson-Sedgwick Funeral Home following the services. In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to Creve Coeur Christian Church or St. Jude Children’s Hospital. To make online condolences you may go to www.sedgwickfuneralhomes.com

Brayton Scott Parrish

Canton- Brayton Scott Parrish, passed away Friday, August 9, 2019, at O.S.F. St. Francis Medical Center in Peoria.

Brayton was born at 2:19 p.m. on August 5, 2019 in Peoria.

He is survived by his parents, Baylie and Scott Parrish, of St. David, maternal grandparents, Chad Snyder and Tracy (Shane) Schmidt, paternal grandparents Carl and Cris Parrish, and uncles Carl (Whitney) Parrish and Steven Parrish.

Memorials may be made to O.S.F. Children’s Hospital.

To leave online condolences, please visit www.oakshinesfuneralhome.com

Daniel A. Karrick

Daniel A. Karrick, 75, of Dahinda, IL, passed away on Tuesday, August 13, 2019 in Pekin. Services pending with Anderson-Sedgwick Funeral Home in Farmington.

Gale Blake Fengel

Canton – Gale Blake Fengel, 91, of Canton, passed away at 3:40 PM on Sunday, August 11, 2019 at Manor Court. He was born on September 19, 1927 in Canton to Gale E. and Frances (Spenny) Fengel. He married Lorraine M. Walsh on June 12, 1954 in Canton, IL she preceded him in death on July 15, 2018.

Also preceding him in death were his parents, and two brothers, Gene and Ray Fengel.

Surviving is one son, Brian (Tanya) Fengel of Peoria; two grandchildren, Emily and Blake Fengel; one brother, Don Fengel of Canton; and one sister, Rose Marie Fengel of Canton.

Blake worked as an electrician at International Harvester for 30 years, 10 years in the construction field, and also farmed with his brothers. He was a member of the IBEW for 68 years, the Bartonville American Legion Post 979, Canton VFW Post 1984, Illinois Retrievers Hunting Club, American Kennel Club, and the Hunting Retrievers 1000 Club. His dog, Northern Exposure’s Hershey, earned a “Master Hunter” certificate.

Blake served in the Navy during World War II on the LST 125 in the South Pacific. He earned two medals, American Campaign World War II Medal and Atlantic Pacific Campaign Medal. Blake was on the first test of the atomic bomb in the Bikini Islands.

A celebration of life will be held from 5-7 PM on Wednesday, August 14, 2019 at Joe’s Place, 275 S Old IL Hwy 78, Norris, IL 61553. Private graveside services will be held at a later date at Greenwood Cemetery in Canton, IL. Cremation rites will be accorded with Sedgwick Funeral Homes & Crematory in Canton, IL. Memorials can be made to Lions Project for Canine Companions for Independence. To view Blake’s DVD or to make online condolences you may go to www.sedgwickfuneralhomes.com

Norma Jean Martin

Norma Jean Martin, 88, of Farmington, passed away at 3:35 PM on Friday, August 9, 2019 at Farmington Country Manor.

Anderson-Sedgwick Funeral Home in Farmington, IL is in charge of services.

Edgar H. Thomas Jr.

Canton- Edgar H. Thomas Jr., 93 of Canton, passed away at 5:45 PM on Wednesday, August 7, 2019 at his residence. He was born on July 28, 1926 in Lewistown, a son of Edgar H. and Sarah B. (Farris) Thomas Sr. he first married Evelyn J. (Clark) Chaney on July 28, 1948 in Canton, and then later married JoAnn (Pollitt) Markley on July 5, 1972 in Canton. They both preceded him in death.

Also preceding him in death is his parents, one daughter, Edith “Edie” Kay Lyons; one son, Eric Gene Thomas; three brothers, Claire, Karl, and Maurice Thomas; two sisters, Katherine Harris, Mary Shawgo; three step- children, Janet Myers, Scott and Steve Markley; one step-brother, Charles, and two step-sisters, Donna and Wilma.

Surviving are his children, Sonny (Rose) Thomas of Bryant; Ellen Jo (Ron) Frazier, Liz Ernst, and Ed Thomas all of Canton; Robert Lee Thomas of Bartonville; two step-children, Becky (James) Auricchio of Texas, Trinia (Gary) Zaborac of Missouri; 15 grandchildren; eight step-grandchildren, and several great, and great-great grandchildren; one brother, Aubrey Thomas of Lewistown, and two sisters, Beatrice Morse of Galesburg, Charlotte Lannery of Naperville. Also, a special friend, Margaret Jackson.

He worked as a plumber owning and operated E-Z plumbing in Canton from 1957 until retiring in 1993. He was a member of South Park United Methodist Church in Canton, member of American Legion Post #16, Canton VFW Post # 1984, and member of the Local Plumbers Union #063 in Peoria. Edgar enjoyed wood-working and selling his crafts on the Spoon River Scenic Drive, and donating them to his church and the country music jam. He also loved to take part in the country music jam at city hall in Bryant every Friday night.

Edgar proudly served his country as a United States Navy veteran, serving from 1943 to 1946, during World War II.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 AM on Tuesday, August 13, 2019 at Sedgwick Funeral Homes & Crematory in Canton, where visitation will be held from 10:00 AM until the time of services. Rev. David Meader will officiate. Burial will take place at Greenwood Cemetery in Canton, following services at the funeral home, where Military Honors will be conducted by the United States Navy, and Canton VFW Post #1984. Memorials can be made to South Park United Methodist Church or to American Cancer Society. To view Edgar’s DVD or to leave online condolences please visit www.sedgwickfuneralhomes.com

Barbara J. McCarthy

Canton- Barbara J. McCarthy, 94, of Canton, passed away Tuesday, August 8, 2019 at Graham Hospital in Canton.

She was born on July 21, 1925 in Detroit, Michigan to Cecil and Gladys (Simmons) Jackson.

Barbara married Charles A. McCarthy Jr. on October 29, 1949 in Urbana, Illinois. He preceded her in death on October 30, 2011.

She is survived by two children, Charles (Debra) McCarthy and Kathleen McCarthy, both of Canton and two grandchildren, Megan (John) Goss and Michael (Brittany) McCarthy.

She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, one brother, Bernard Jackson, and one sister, Marilyn Carr Weber.

Barbara and her husband owned and operated Fulton County Abstract Company. She enjoyed reading, dancing, listening to music, football, gardening, and birds - but most of all she loved spending time with her children and grandchildren.

A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, August 17, 2019 at The American Grille in Canton from 11:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m.

Memorials may be made to St. Mary’s Food Pantry.

To leave online condolences, please visit www.oakshinesfuneralhome.com

Robert Harper Rector

Smithfield- Robert Harper Rector, of Casper, Wyoming, formerly of Smithfield, passed away at the age of 92 on August 5, 2019 at Shepherd of the Valley Care Center, Casper, WY.  He was born to parents Theodore and Edith Rector, on December 13, 1926 at his rural home in Smithfield, Illinois.  Robert, "Bob", was a 1944 graduate of Canton High School in Canton, Illinois.  Enlisting in the U.S. Army at 17 ½ , he served until 1946 in the Army Corps of Engineers.  Bob received his BS in mechanical engineering from the University of Illinois in Urbana, Illinois in 1950.  Over a career and life span of over 70 years, Bob met and married Shirley "Bette" Wilson of Urbana, Illinois.  They made a life together for 69 years in 7 states (OK, LA, KS, IL, CA, CO, WY) as well as three foreign countries (Iran, Egypt, England) allowing them to travel the world as a result of Bob's career as a petroleum engineer, primarily with AMOCO International.  Retiring in California in the late 1980's eventually led to a move to Casper, WY to be near family in 2001.

From Bob's youth in Fulton County, Illinois he learned to love the outdoors sports of camping, fishing, and hunting.  His fondest dream was to someday "bag" an elk.  That dream never materialized, but he never gave up and always enjoyed the hunt.  Always ready to try something new he learned to square dance, took up golf, learned to ski in Iran, rode camels in Egypt, parachuted once, and rafted the white waters of Colorado and Wyoming.  Bob was musical too, playing his clarinet and saxophone in school and dance bands.  He was also a great vocal harmonizer singing Barbershop for several years.  Where ever there was a hoop or table he was ready to shoot a basketball or pick up a cue stick.  Bob was proud to be a Shriner and a member of the Masonic Lodge in Springfield, Illinois.  An amateur and avid photographer, Bob was almost never without his camera.  He passed on his love and talents as an adventurer, musician, and photographer to his children, Susan and Phill.  With his great smile and sense of humor Bob was never afraid to don the clown or jester suit, play the Santa, or wear that formal penguin get-up for special occasions.  He was a generous man and wonderful provider for his family.

Bob is survived by his wife of 69 years, Shirley Elizabeth (Wilson) Rector and his two children, Susan (Rector) Handy of Lewistown, Illinois and Dr. Phillip K. Rector of Lander, Wyoming.  He is also survived by two grandchildren, Eva (Handy) Moring of Salisbury, MD and Gabriel Handy of Orlando, FL.; as well as six great grandchildren.  He is preceded in death by his brother, Gilbert Rector, of Brookfield, Illinois and his sister, Virginia (Rector) Doll of rural Bushnell, Illinois.

A graveside service will be held on Monday, August 12, 2019 at 11:00 a.m. in Baughman Cemetery, Smithfield, Illinois. Military rites will be accorded at the graveside service by Cuba American Legion Post 533. Visitation will be held from 9:30-10:30 AM on Monday at Henry-Lange Memorial Home in Lewistown.  A memorial service will be held thereafter at Shepherd of the Hills Presbyterian Church in Casper in mid-August. 

Arrangements have been made through Newcomer Funeral Home in Casper and Henry Lange Funeral Home in Lewistown, Illinois.

Vaughn Suydam

Vaughn Suydam, 81, of Farmington, passed away at 6:20 PM on Saturday, August 3, 2019 at Farmington Country Manor. He was born on December 15, 1937 in Canton, IL, a son of Edgar and Betty (Tonkin) Suydam. He married Shirley Welker on August 6, 1960 in Farmington, IL. She preceded him in death on December 24, 2016.

Also preceded him in death are his parents; one son, Steven Suydam; and one brother, Robert Suydam.

Surviving is his daughter, Julie (Jay) Van Tress of Fishers, IN ; two sisters, Jackie (Richard) Werry of Canton, IL and Joyce (Lloyd) Fickert of La Harpe, IL; five grandchildren, Kristen (Rob) Emmons, Justin Van Tress, Jordan (Holly) Van Tress, Allison Van Tress, and Amber Van Tress; and two great-grandchildren, Bailey and Camyrn Emmons.

Vaughn was a Millwright at Caterpillar, Inc. for many years where he retired, and he also owned and operated Vaughn’s Saw Service in Farmington for 47 years. He was a member of the Farmington United Methodist Church, and on the Oak Ridge Cemetery board from 2001-2019. He also enjoyed his Stanley Planes and Oldsmobile Cars.

Per Vaughn’s wishes his body will be donated to the Body Donation Program at Washington University in St Louis, Missouri for scientific study. A Celebration of Life will be at the Farmington United Methodist Church on Saturday, August 24, 2019 at 4:00 PM, where the family will greet friends and family after services. Rev. Walter Carlson will officiate. Burial of ashes will be in Oak Ridge Cemetery in Farmington at a later date. Memorials can be made to the Farmington Rescue 1100 or Oak Ridge Cemetery. To leave online condolences please visit www.sedgwickfuneralhomes.com

Betty A. Grove

Betty A. Grove, 85, of Canton, passed away at 11:30 AM on Sunday, July 7, 2019 at her residence. She was born on February 10, 1934 in Fairview, IL to Frank and Sylvia (Thurman) McCracken. She first married Glenn Romine Jr. and later married James R. Grove in April of 1959.

 Betty was preceded in death by her parents; husband, James; and one daughter, Connie S. Romine (Trobaugh), and one grandson, Kevin Scott Grove Jr.

 Surviving are three children, Frank D. Romine, Debora (Roger Sheets) Grove, and Kevin S. Grove; nine grandchildren; several great and great-great-grandchildren; and her loving bedside companion “Bear” until her death.

 Betty loved to bowl and was an avid pitch player at Canton Moose and the Elks Lodge. She also enjoyed fishing and dancing. Betty was a member of the Elks Lodge in Canton for many years. The family wishes to thank Lyn, Tanner and Teresa for the loving care they provided to Betty.

 A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, August 10, 2019 from 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM at the Canton Elks Lodge. Burial of ashes will be held at Foster Cemetery in rural Fairview, IL on Saturday, August 17, 2019 at 2:00 PM. Cremation rites will be accorded with Sedgwick Funeral Homes & Crematory in Canton, IL. Memorials can be made to the Alzheimer’s Association. To make online condolences you may go to www.sedgwickfuneralhomes.com