Roberta L. Kounse

Canton- Roberta L. Kounse, 77, of Canton, passed away at 3:50 PM on Tuesday, March 29, 2022, in her home. She was born on August 24, 1944 in Baltimore, Maryland, a daughter of Anna Gosnell and raised by her step-father, Bill Willey. She married the love of her life, Arthur Kounse on April 11, 1984 in Virginia. He survives.

She is also survived by two children; Steve (Sue) Cody of Maryland, and Robert (Cathy) Cody of Arizona, 4 grandchildren, 1 great-great-grandchild, and 1 sister; Cathy Willey.

Roberta is preceded in death by her parents, and her two sisters; Patricia Rozel and Maryellen Smith.

Roberta worked as a waitress for many years, and she also enjoyed talking on the phone to her friends and family.

Cremation rites will be accorded with Sedgwick Funeral Homes and Crematory in Canton, Illinois. Memorials may be made to the American Diabetes Association. To leave an online condolence you may go to www.sedgwickfuneralhomes.com

Lewis E. Belville

Lewistown- Lewis Edwin Belville, 93, of Lewistown, passed away at 7:35 AM Tuesday March 29, 2022 at Mason District Hospital.

He was born July 3, 1928 in Rush Run, Ohio the son of George and Nellie (Brown) Belville. He married Genevieve Schnarr on December 9, 1950 at Lewistown. She preceded him in death after 65 years of marriage, on August 24, 2015. Surviving are his two children, Larry Belville of Lewistown, and Kathy (Bill) Palmer of Knoxville, two grandchildren, Amy (John) Brandsen and Seth (Kim) Neuendorf. Also surviving are two step-grandchildren, Jeff (Kathy) Palmer and Jenny (Steve) Watts, four great-grandchildren and four step great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, daughter and son in-law, Cindy and Mike Neuendorf, a brother, Cliff Belville, and a sister, Margaret Hanbury.

Lewis graduated from Lewistown Community High School and Western Illinois University. He went on to teach English at Lewistown High School for several years and then finished his career as the High School Guidance Counselor. Lewis served his country during the Korean War conflict in the United States Army Counter-Intelligence Corp. and was stationed in Germany. Lewis accepted Jesus as his Savior as a young adult. He and Genevieve were actively involved in church work until their health declined in later years. Lewis was very musically inclined and was self-taught on the clarinet, piano and guitar. He enjoyed watching sports, especially the Chicago Cubs and the Connecticut Women’s College basketball team. Lewis played high school baseball and later in the Sunday Morning League in Peoria. He also coached Little League and High School baseball.

A graveside service will be held at 11:00 am Monday April 4, 2022 at Oak Hill Cemetery in Lewistown, with military rites accorded by Lewistown VFW Post 5001 and American Legion Bishop Post 1. There will be no visitation. Memorial contributions may be made to the Peoria Rescue Mission or the Fulton County Humane Society. Condolences may be made at henrylange.com

William Bowers

Hanna City- William Bowers, 91, of Hanna City, passed away at 7:22 AM on Friday, March 25, 2022 at Farmington Country Manor in Farmington. He was born on June 9, 1930 in Mason City, Iowa, a son of Loren and Genevieve (Reynolds) Bowers. He married Mildred Schmidt on June 26, 1954 in Rudd, Iowa. She survives.

Also surviving are his children, David Bowers of Haddonfield, New Jersey; Steven Bowers of Oswego, Illinois; James Bowers of Indianola, Iowa; six grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; one brother, Robert Bowers of Washington, Illinois and two sisters, Beverly Torgeson of Plymouth, Iowa; Barbara Pierson of Mason City, Iowa.

He was preceded in death by his parents, one son, Derek Bowers, and one brother, Lloyd Bowers.

William graduated from the University of Iowa, with a PH. D, and worked as a History Professor at Bradley University in Peoria, and also served his country during the Korean War with the United States Army.

Per William’s wishes, there will be no services, cremation rites will be accorded through Anderson-Sedgwick Funeral Home in Farmington. To leave online condolences please visit www.sedgwickfuneralhomes.com

Charlene Marie Bollinger

Farmington- Charlene Marie Bollinger, 86, of Farmington, passed away at 12:11 PM on Sunday, March 27, 2022 in her home. She was born on January 9, 1936 in London Mills, Illinois, a daughter of Charles and Blanche (Murphy) Reed. She married the love of her life, Robert “Bob” Ernest Bollinger on July 13, 1952 in Farmington, Illinois. He preceded her in death on April 24, 2018.

Charlene is also preceded in death by her parents, five brothers, and two sisters.

She is survived by three children; Robert “Bob” (Tina) Bollinger of Elmwood, Greg (Michelle “Miki”) Bollinger of Plainfield, and Cynthia Myers of Farmington; six grandchildren, Cory (Marisa) Bollinger of East Peoria, Scott (Jennifer) Slayton of Elmwood, Christina (Todd) Lasswell of Havana, David (Joni West) Slayton of Canton, and Aiden and Avery Bollinger of Plainfield; 13 great grandchildren; 3 great-great-grandchildren; two brothers, Lyle “Tom” (Rose) Reed of Farmington, Wayne (Nancy) Reed of Farmington; and one sister, Carol Roberts of Farmington.

Charlene spent her entire life caring for her family as a very devoted Wife, Mom, Grandma and Ma. She will be greatly missed by her family.

Funeral service will be held at noon on Saturday, April 2, 2022 at Anderson-Sedgwick Funeral Home in Farmington, Illinois. A visitation will be held the same day from 11 AM-noon. Rev. Robert Henderson will officiate. Burial will follow services at Oak Ridge Cemetery in Farmington, Illinois. Memorials may be made to the Farmington Rescue Squad 1100. To view Charlene’s DVD or to make online condolences please visit www.sedgwickfuneralhomes.com

William J. "Bill" Kauzlarich

William Joseph Kauzlarich,

Known far and wide as Bill aka Big K aka Mr. Bill.
Passed away peacefully on 3/24/2022 at the young age of 71 years at his residence in Farmington IL that he shared with his wife Mary Alice (Sprague), she survives. Bill was born on 9/30/1950 in the Graham Hospital, Canton, IL to Julian & Betty (Stockman) Kauzlarich. Both of whom are deceased. He is also survived by his daughter Jessica (Daniel) Slater of Farmington and two Grandchildren, Scarlett & Sebastian Slater. Austin Ensor “the son he never had” also from Farmington Also Daughter in-law Heather (Kevin) Cupples of Missouri and Step Granddaughters Malloree Hedrick, Rylee Cupples, and Kallee Cupples (Coty) all of Iowa. Bill was an only child, raised on a small farm south of Farmington just down the country road from his paternal grandparents, Tony & Olga Kauzlarich. His small world existed in Fulton County between the small farm life and the small River town of Liverpool, where his mother was from. He always looked forward to going to his Liverpool family for Holidays and other events. Loved to relate and mention the many memories of such gatherings and all the relatives in his life. This small family of three attended St. Matthews Catholic Church in Farmington. He most prized childhood possessions were his AM/FM radio and the set of WORLD BOOK Encyclopedias that his parents had purchased for the family. The radio introduced him to his Beloved Chicago White Sox and his idol Nellie Fox but the Encyclopedia introduced him to the WORLD outside of Farmington, and all the knowledge one little farm boy could muster. Giving him the lust for learning and collecting data and statistics. Bill attended Farmington School District all the way from first grade thru Graduating in 1968 from High School. Starting his love of ‘Purple & Gold’. Most people knew Bill loved his sports. His LOVE of the White Sox, Indianapolis Colts (starting back to Baltimore), St Louis Blues, and Atlanta Hawks. Bill was a loyal fan of these teams, but it never stopped him from watching and following all teams and gathering and remembering all the statistics he could retain & rattle off the top of his head. Even though he played Baseball in his youth, he was more of a spectator than a participant. Except one story was how he wanted to be on the Varsity Football Team, and he discovered the position of Place Kicker. So, he built a Goal post at his homestead in which he could practice kicking the football. He did earn a place on the football team and was proud of that honor. At his last Class Reunion he had the honor of inviting his High School Coach Ron Ellberg to attend and personally thanked him for letting him try out for the team. Another memory he had was on his 17th Birthday, friends from High School invited him to attend his very first Baseball Game in St. Louis. It would be hard to count how many baseball Games he has attended since. Even going on to coach his daughter’s baseball team, and going to Scarlett’s games last summer.
In his adult years, Bill caught the Tennis bug, and found out he was good at playing Tennis both as a Single player and Doubles around Fulton County. He attended Western University, again proud of the “Purple & Gold”, but he heard that the Midland Coal Company was hiring, and at that time the Mine was one of the top companies around Fulton County to get a job, not only because of the pay but for the benefits that were offered. Bill worked for the Mine for over 20 years, then worked at Caterpillar and Mitsubishi. His greatest achievement in life was the birth of his daughter. He was a devoted Father, literally took a second Shift Job so he could be a more active Father in her school years. Coached her Softball Team, never missed her games and plays, took her and her friends on trips, all along passing down his knowledge and love for history, sports trivia, travel and his sense of humor. He was so proud of her and her accomplishments, but especially for making him a Papa. He loved to travel, and even though most trips always included going to a professional Stadium or Arena to watch a sporting event, he did love to explore and learn new experiences like Broadway Shows in New York, Las Vegas Shows, The Niagara Falls in Canada, St Louis, Chicago, Walt Disney World with his daughter and her friends plus their families and of course his beloved St Pete Beach in Florida. There always was a story to be told about his escapades and adventures. Traveling is one of the things that he and Mary Alice loved to do together. Bill prided himself that he was a true friend. No matter how Bill met you in his life, whether at school, while at a work place, thru an APBA board game website, at a youth game, local restaurant, or on Facebook, if he deemed you a friend you became his friend for life; including having daily phone calls, emails, monthly breakfast or luncheon summit meetings with those with whom he was the closest. He was known for his Humor. It warmed his heart when he evoked a smile or chuckle from you with one of his many ‘Bill-isms’ and one liner’s. Facebook became one of his new passions because he could start your day with a bit of a laugh, post a new picture of the joys of his life, his grandchildren, and introduce you to his newest obsession on how a DOG man became a CAT lover. It broke his heart that in the end the one thing that this horrible Cancer took from him was his ability to talk and communicate how incredibly happy he was with all his friendships from over the years. He is truly a life that was taken way before his time. He had so much more to say and garner a smile from each and every one of you. Cremation rites will be accorded through Anderson-Sedgwick Funeral Home in Farmington. Private Family Burial of ashes will be held at Oak Ridge Cemetery on Saturday, April 9, 2022. A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. To leave an online condolence for the family visit www.sedgwickfuneralhomes.com

Larry Lee Palley

Larry Lee Palley, 77, of Middlegrove, passed away at 8:55 PM on Thursday, March 24, 2022 at Graham Hospital in Canton. He was born on January 4, 1945 in Canton, a son of Arthur and Pearl (Wright) Palley.

Surviving are his children, Shelly Palley of Peoria; Dustin Palley of Middlegrove; Jason Palley of Canton; four grandchildren, Chelsea Benitez, Trey Benitez, Jason Palley Jr., Rhiannon Kruzan, and one great-grandchild, Jasper Palley.

He was preceded in death by his parents, and one brother, Ronald Palley.

Larry worked and retired from Caterpillar, Inc. after 30 years of service, and he was drafted, serving with the United States Army.

Per Larry’s wishes, cremation rites will be accorded, through Anderson-Sedgwick Funeral Home in Farmington. Celebration of life service will be held at a later date. Memorials can be made to Donor’s Choice. To leave online condolences please visit www.sedgwickfuneralhomes.com.

Gloria Izard

Gloria A. (Swanson) Izard, 92, of Vine Grove, KY, formerly of Tucson, AZ, Canton, IL and Clinton, IA, died surrounded by loved ones Tuesday, March 22nd.

Born December 25th, 1929, in Clinton, IA, the daughter of Robert and Leona Swanson, she married Robert "Tut" Izard in 1952. She was preceded in death by both her parents, her husband, her 2 sons, David S. and Robert A., her daughter Carrie Izard Richardson, and her brother, Robert Swanson and sister, Mary Rhoads.
Survivors include a son, Martin K. (Kelly) of Vine Grove, 4 granddaughters, Alysis (JJ) Morrissey, Lindsey Richardson, Dannielle Embry and Bailey Izard; 3 great grandchildren, Peyton Izard-Parker, Avery Morrissey and Owen Morrissey, and a son in law David Richardson.
Gloria was a member of St. Michaels Episcopal Church in Tucson, AZ, St. Peters Episcopal Church in Canton, IL and Grace St. Paul in Tucson, AZ. She took on many roles within the church and she loved doing floral arrangements for the altars.
She was a 1947 graduate of Clinton High School and attended the Iowa State Teachers College (Northern Iowa University). After college, she moved to Tucson, AZ, where she worked in a factory making airplanes during the Korean War. She met her husband in Arizona while he was in the Air Force.
For most of her life, she dedicated it to her family. As a homemaker, she raised 4 children. She was heavily involved in Garden Clubs, her church, was a past President of the PEO Sisters organization and enjoyed playing bridge and golf.
Cremation Rites have been accorded. A Visitation is planned for March 29th, from 5-6pm at Chism Family Funeral home in Vine Grove, KY. Graveside services at Hyatt Cemetery in rural Cuba, IL will be held on April 9th at 1pm. Oaks-Hines Funeral home will be handling services in Illinois. To make online condolences please visit www.oakshinesfuneralhome.com.

Loyd H. McCombs

Loyd “Bully” Henry McCombs, age 84 of Astoria, IL, passed away at 5:42 pm on Friday, March 25, 2022 at his home. He was born on September 11, 1937 in Bader, IL, the son of Henry and Bonnie (Edwards) McCombs. He married Linda Mae Orwig on April 23, 1966 in Astoria, IL. She preceded him in death on January 17, 2002.

He was also preceded in death by two brothers, James and Patrick McCombs and three sisters, Janie Danner, Judy Wright and Nancy Westlake.

Bully is survived by two brothers, Tony (and Vicky) McCombs of Rushville, IL and Ted Bair of Harriman, TN, his sister Susie Bair of Canton, IL, several nieces and nephews and his caretakers; Stacey (and Von) Geisendorfer of Baylis, IL, Angela Smith, Matthew Palmer and Ray Palmer, all of Astoria and Leslie Palmer of Galesburg, IL.

Bully was an Army veteran, serving from 1960-1966 with a rank of SP-4 (T).

He worked for Caterpillar Tractor Company in East Peoria, IL.

Bully was a member of the UAW Local 974 of East Peoria, the Vermont Masonic Lodge and the Springfield ANSAR Shrine, and the Astoria American Legion Post #25.

He was the unofficial assistant coach for Astoria and South Fulton sports for most of his lifetime, giving of himself unconditionally. He never saw an athlete go without due to finances and was always there to lend words of encouragement and support.

Services for Bully will take place on Wednesday, March 30th at 12 Noon at Shawgo Memorial Home in Astoria. Visitation will begin at 11:00 am. Masonic services will be provided by the Vermont Masonic Lodge and military rites will be conducted at the graveside by the Astoria American Legion Post #25. Pastor Matthew Thiner will officiate with interment in the Astoria Cemetery. Memorials in Bully’s memory may be given to the South Fulton Athletics program.

Rebecca “Becky” Lee Heitz Crossman

Rebecca “Becky” Lee Heitz Crossman, 68, of Astoria died at 1:25 a.m. March 26, 2022.

She was born on July. 31, 1953, in Macomb, a daughter of Cecil and Nancy Little Heitz. She married Monte A. Crossman on October 17, 1998, in Gatlinburg, Tenn. He survives.

Also surviving are two daughters, Jenny (and Tim) Elliott, and Jessica Young all of Macomb; two sons, Jesse (and Sarah) of Lewistown, Andrew (and Olliebea) of Astoria; her mother of Vermont; one sister, Susie (and Scotty) Parr of Vermont; one brother, Chris (and Kelly) Heitz of Vermont; her special friend; Susan “Gram” Young, and six grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her father; her younger sister Kathy Coats; her maternal grandparents, Roman and Lulu Little; and her paternal grandparents, Roy and Vernie Heitz.

She was a 1971 graduate of VIT High School. Becky was employed with US Postal Service for over 26 plus years. Her career at USPS started with Remote Encoding Center, then onto Human Resources, Postmaster at Dunfermline. Currently Postmaster of Littletown, Industry, Vermont, Ipava, and Astoria Offices.

Becky was a Heart Transplant recipient in April of 2014.

She was a member of Astoria Christian Church. Becky loved her family, and God. She was loyal to her friends and enjoyed her time as Postmaster with all her postal family and customers.

A Graveside services will be held at 4:30 pm on Thursday, March 31, 2022 at Vermont Cemetery with Pastor Gary Sheets officiating.

The family will receive friends from 5 to 7 pm on Wednesday, March 30 at Shawgo Memorial Home in Astoria.

Per the family’s request, in lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Becky’s name to Richard L. Owen Hospice Center in Peoria, or Astoria Fire Department. A big thank you to all the professional health care workers who cared for Becky during her life journey.

Randy L. Weishaar

Randy L. Weishaar, 73, of Browning, IL, passed away at 6:08 pm on Thursday, March 24, 2022 at Culbertson Memorial Hospital in Rushville, IL. He was born on May 14, 1948 in Schuyler County, IL, the son of Homer Lee and Annabelle (DeMoss) Weishaar.

He is survived by his son, Homer Randall "Sluggo" (and Jill) Weishaar of Browning, 2 daughters, Sally Ann Weishaar of Browning and Kelly (and Pat) Cagle of Beardstown, IL, 4 grandchildren, Bradley Randall Weishaar, Randi Leigh Weishaar, Franki Nichole Weishaar and Nicholas Reid Weishaar, and his sister, Debbie (and George) Runkels of Springfield, IL.

He is preceded by his parents.

Randy was a member of Laborers 165 in Peoria, IL for 50 years. He was also a Commercial Fisherman.

Randy served in the U.S. Navy. He loved his grandchildren and spending time with them.

Cremation rites have been accorded. A visitation will take place from 5 to 7 pm on Thursday, March 31, 2022 at Shawgo Memorial Home in Astoria. Interment will be in the Browning Cemetery at 10 am on Friday, April 1, 2022. A celebration of life will follow at noon at Sally's 4th Street Bistro in Beardstown, IL. Memorials may be made to the donor's choice.

Bradley Buell

Chillicothe - Bradley Buell, 59, of Chillicothe, formerly of Canton, passed away, Saturday, March 26, 2022, at Renaissance Care Center in Canton.

He was born on March 24, 1963, in Canton to Paul and Charlotte (Cox) Buell. They survive along with one sister Lynne Buell of Peoria.
Brad was a fond resident of the Crabel Court Group Home in Chillicothe. He enjoyed helping on Sundays at the Chillicothe Assembly of God Church where he attended for many years. Brad competed in numerous Special Olympic events, and he enjoyed bowling, swimming, and hitting golf balls at the driving range.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the CWTC workshop in Peoria, Crabel Court Group Home or to the Fulton County Humane Society.
A graveside service will be held on Tuesday March 29, 2022 at 11 a.m. at Greenwood Cemetery in Canton.
To leave online condolences, please visit www.oakshinesfuneralhome.com

Aimee Rains

Canton - Aimee Rains, 58, of Canton, passed away Wednesday, March 23, 2022, at her home in Canton.

She was born on November 4, 1963, to John and Betty (McCullum) Peterson. They preceded her in death along with one brother, John and one sister Mary.
She is survived by her husband Jimmy Rains, two children, Nicole Banks, and Jimmy (Reen) Rains Jr., one brother Pete, one sister Suzie, and four grandchildren, Julia, Mya, Ryan and Hailey.
Aimee graduated from Western Illinois University with a bachelor's degree in computer science. She enjoyed many years of schooling especially Geology. She also enjoyed gardening, flowers and carpentry project with her husband. Aimee was also a talented artist and was always very proud of her father John who was a decorated Veteran of World War II, where he was also a prisoner of was for two years.
Cremation rites have been accorded and a celebration of life will be held at a later date.

Eleanor D. Chudoba

Eleanor D. Chudoba, 81, of Maquon, passed away at 8:58 p.m., on Monday, March 21, 2022, at her home surrounded by her family. She was born on July 13, 1941, in upstate New York, to Virgil and Elizabeth (Felder) Balcom.

She is survived by two children, Mark (Laurie) Chudoba and Elizabeth (Howard) Cooper; one brother-in-law, Edwin Lebron; twelve grandchildren, Caleb, Kira, Emily, Adara, Marianne, Kaitlyn, Joshua, Alexis, Brody, Luke, Sydney, and Samantha; and one great-grandchild, James.
She is preceded in death by her parents; and one sister, Evelyn Larue.
Cremation rites have been accorded. A Celebration of Life will be held at 3:00 p.m., on Thursday, March 24, 2022, at the Farmington Baptist Church.
To leave online condolences, please visit www.oakshinesfuneralhome.com

Oaks-Hines Funeral Home and Crematory in Elmwood is in charge of arrangements.

Deborah R. Courtney

Canton - Deborah R. Courtney, 70, of Canton, passed away, Wednesday, March 23, 2022, at Aperion Care in Morton.

She was born on June 9, 1951, to Samuel and June (Ladd) Gray. Her father preceded her in death.
She is survived by her husband, Bruce Courtney, whom she married on June 29, 2000, in Lewistown.
Also surviving is one son Stephen Rothrock of North Las Vegas, two sisters, Laurie and Lisa, four nieces, and two grandchildren.
Deborah previously worked for Catholic Social Services in Canton for several years.
She was a proud Veteran of the United States Navy and an animal lover especially of her cat Rocky.
Cremation rites will be accorded with Oaks-Hines Funeral Home and Crematory in Canton.
A celebration of life will be held at a later date.

Johnnie Dale McCone

Johnnie Dale McCone went to meet the Lord at Renaissance Care Center on Monday, March 21, 2022. Surviving is his wife of 63 years, Beverly McCone, 4 children, Idella (Howard) Button of Big Sandy, Tn., Martha (Darren) Ball of Canton, II, Ervin (Rita) McCone of Fairview, II, and John (Brandy) McCone of Fairview, II., one brother, Jim (Marge) McCone of Ohio, one sister, Janice (Kent) Johnson of Ellisville,12 grandchildren, and 24 great grandchildren.

John also had the great pleasure of several other step grandchildren that called him Grandpa.

Preceding him in death are his father, John D. McCone, and his mother, Bernice (Lehnhausen) McCone.
Johnnie was a deacon and Sunday School Teacher at Ellisville Christian Church for many years. He was also a volunteer fireman for 32 years at Ellisville, London Mills, and Fairview.
He worked at International Harvester and Maytag for many combined years. But his true love was owning and operating J&B Sport Shop in Ellisville.
Johnnie was a gifted carpenter, he enjoyed hunting and fishing.
Memorials may be made to the Ellisville Christian Church or to Fairview Fire Protection District.
Services will be held at Ellisville Christian Church on Thursday, March 24, 2022 at 11:00 a.m. Visitation will be held 2 hours prior to the service, at the Church.
Burial will be held immediately following the services at Fairview Cemetery in Fairview.

Kathy S. Miller

Kathy S. Miller, 67, of Browning, IL, passed away at 8:18 pm on Friday, March 18, 2022 at her home. She was born on Saturday, September 4, 1954 in Pekin, IL, the daughter of Alfred M. and Marth J. (Mock) Shelby Sr.

Kathy is survived by her 3 children, Sheary (and Bill) Dupoy of Rushville, IL, Micheal Cookson of Washington, IL, and Katie (and Jacob) Howard of Browning, 5 grandchildren, 3 great-grandchildren, 3 sisters, Wilma Stamback, Elva Danner, and Denise (and Leon) Simpson, and 2 brothers, Everett Shelby and Alfred Shelby Jr.

She is preceded in death by her parents and 2 brothers, Fred Shelby and Jim Shelby.

Kathy was a seamstress and loved to quilt. She also enjoyed reading.

Cremation rites have been accorded. Private family services will be held at a later date.

Nelda L. Wages

Canton - Nelda L. Wages, 89, of Titusville, FL, formerly of Canton, passed away on Thursday, March 17, 2022 at the Edward Poe Hospice Center in Titusville, Florida.

She was born November 28, 1932 in Table Grove to Louis "Louie" and Velda "Ruth" (Fourdeyce) Mulligan. They preceded her in death.
She married Lloyd Wages on October 6, 1950 in Monterey, IL. He survives.
Also surviving are her children, Tim (Jacquelyn) Wages of Maywood, N.J., Jann (Gary) Faiga of Port St. John, FL, Lynn Mulligan of Titusville, FL, two sisters, Dona Maxwell of Bossier City, LA, Peggy McCreight of Shelby, N.C., two grandchildren, Sean Rollins, Shannon Rollins and two great grandchildren, Kastyn and Reilly Faiga.
She was also preceded in death by six brothers, Fred, Bob, Chuck, Louis, Virgil and Tom and one sister, Mildred Simmons.
Nelda was a member of the Victory Baptist Church in Port St. John, FL where she considered many members her extended family. She also enjoyed making greeting cards for the holidays and special events for her friends and family.
A visitation will be held on Saturday, March 26, 2022 at 10am at Oaks-Hines Funeral Home in Canton with a funeral service to follow at 11 am. Burial will follow at Orendorff Cemetery in rural Canton.
Memorials can be made to the Ronald McDonald House.
To leave online condolences, please visit www.oakshinesfuneralhome.com

Billie S. Howarter

Canton - Billie S. Howarter, 80, of Canton, passed away at 8:30 am, Thursday, March 17, 2022 at OSF Richard L. Owens Hospice Home in Peoria. She was born on August 13, 1941 in Canton to Robin G. and Ruth E. (Williams) Stockman. Billie married Tyler R. Howarter Sr. on January 17, 1959 in Canton. He preceded her in death on March 4, 2003. Also preceding her in death were two sons Brandon G. Howarter and Chris R. Howarter, twin brothers (Ralph and Randy Ellis) and one sister (Joni "Joni Jean" Daum).

Surviving are two children; Shelli (Wayne) Swope and Tyler (Brenda) Howarter Jr., both of Canton, sister Sharlee Utsinger, her significant other of many years, Randy Burnham, six grandchildren: Zachary Howarter, Katy (Nick) Tinsman, Tara Howarter, Kristen (Jake) Beoletto, Samy (Paul) Gonstal, and Alexandra Howarter, and nine great-grandchildren: Ethan, Taylor, Owen, Claire, Lyric, Cash, Mia, Nora, and Alice.

Billie was known and loved by her grands and great grands as "Nan" and "Nanny Bird." In her youth, Billie, along with her sister Sharlee, were lead members of the traveling, performance group, known as the "Little Sisters Square Dancers." She was a born performer and loved the spotlight, while square dancing, clogging, tap, ballet, and cheerleading. Her time with the Little Sisters Square dancers allowed her the opportunity of singing as a solo vocalist on the Chicago Radio, and meeting Arkie the Arkansas Woodchopper, Bob Atcher, Dolphin Jewitt, Lulubelle & Scotty, and Homer & Jethro.

As a teenager, while out with her friends at the Silverleaf Roller Rink, she met her very own Elvis look-alike, and love, Tyler Howarter. They married and raised 4 children together. Their generosity was second to none, as they rented homes for free, to many local families trying to get back on their feet, fed anyone who needed a meal, and was a parent or grandparent to anyone and everyone.

Billie loved riding, and raising horses, trail riding, drinking coffee all day long, mushroom hunting, finding mustard greens, gardening, cooking huge holiday meals, gambling at the Paradise Riverboat, hosting her Pinochle club, playing Pitch competitively at the Eagles Lodge, and for fun, around her kitchen table, reminiscing about her time in Liverpool, IL, as her fondest, childhood memories, and loved all things Elvis. She has a painted mural in her living room, that is featured on postcards in Graceland.

Billie attended Glasford middle school, Canton High School, obtained her GED, and completed her Associates degree at Spoon River College, with a focus in Mathematics and Slide Rule. She worked at Tempo, and worked as a dispatcher for the Canton Police Department. She founded the Fulton County Ambulance Service before it became a publicly owned entity, and owned and operated the Fulton County Medi-Coach (a low-cost, non-emergent, medical transportation service). She later worked at Canton Walmart as a CSM, until retirement in 2011.

Graveside services will be held at 3 pm, Saturday, April 2, 2022, at Orendorf Cemetery, in rural Canton. Oaks-Hines Funeral Home and Crematory, in Canton, are in charge of arrangements. Memorials may be made to the Zachary Howarter Trust, at Bank of Farmington, Canton. To leave online condolences, please visit www.oakshinesfuneralhome.com

Helen E. Hanks

Helen E. Hanks, 90, of Yates City, passed away at 12:19 p.m., on Thursday, March 17, 2022, at OSF Saint Francis Medical Center in Peoria. She was born on March 21, 1931, in East St. Louis, IL, to Oscar and Estelle (Metcalfe) Mason.

She is survived by four children, Nancy Hanks of Yates City, Penny Hanks of Yates City, David Hanks of Algonquin, IL, and Kenneth (the late Sue) Hanks, of Brimfield; five grandchildren, Stacy, Derek, Nathan, Zachary, and Ryan; and four great-grandchildren, Brady, Brynley, Moira, and Landon.
She is preceded in death by her parents.
Helen was a Secretary for the City of Peoria Engineering Department for 17 years. She was also a longtime Peoria Rivermen and Mustang hockey fan. She was of the Methodist faith.
A funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m., on Thursday, March 24, 2022, at Oaks-Hines Funeral Home in Elmwood. A visitation will be held the night before, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., on Wednesday, March 23, 2022, at Oaks-Hines Funeral Home. A burial will immediately follow the service at Yates City Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Yates City Fire Department and B.Y.E. Ambulance.
To leave online condolences or view Helen's video tribute, please go to www.oakshinesfuneralhome.com

Oaks-Hines Funeral Home and Crematory in Elmwood is in charge of arrangements.

Esther L. Lovell

Canton- Esther L. Lovell, 83, of Canton passed away at 9:53 PM Thursday March 17, 2022 at Farmington Country Manor.

She was born May 2, 1938 at Canton the daughter of Ralph A. and Isabel (McKean) Munson. She married Robert Lovell on March 23, 1959 at Pekin. He died in June of 1987. She was also preceded in death by her parents, one son, Doug Lovell, one grandson, Chad Wilson, one great grandson, Darren McKeever, two brothers, and one sister, Harriett McClaughry. Surviving are three daughters, Valerie (Howard) Wilson of Smithfield, Bobbi Jo Munson of Canton, and Jeanne Martin of Woodlawn, TN; one sister, Laura Sue Munson of Canton, eleven grandchildren, twenty-four great grandchildren, and two great great grandchildren.

Esther was a homemaker. She had been a member of the Fiatt Rebecca Lodge. She enjoyed spending time with her grandchildren, and playing Pinochle.

Funeral services will be held at 10:30 AM Tuesday March 22nd at the Henry-Lange Memorial Home in Cuba with Reverend Mike Arnett officiating. Burial will be in Fiatt Cemetery at rural Fiatt. Visitation will be held from 5-7 PM Monday at the memorial home. Memorial contributions may be made to the Chad Wilson Memorial Scholarship Fund. Online condolences may be made at henrylange.com.

Karen Sue Clark

5, 6, 7, 8

And 1… Karen Sue (Cassidy) Clark began the dance of Life on November 30, 1951 under the tutelage of Robert “Bib” and Delores (Wyzlic) Cassidy in Peoria, Illinois. Learning her first steps in Peoria’s historic Southside, she was proud of her Polish and Irish Catholic heritage. The middle of five children (Linda,
Bobby, Donna, and John) of the Cassidy troupe, Karen was the consummate peacemaker throughout her childhood and maintained a close camaraderie with all of her siblings.

Karen’s quick mind and helpful nature made her a star pupil throughout her education at St. Boniface School, Trewyn School, Manual High School, and eventually Illinois State University. Adamant that rules are established in order to know how to follow them (as well as how to bend them), Karen’s academic work was frequently used as an example by her instructors. While at Manual High School, Karen was a proud member of the cheerleading team, which showcased her nature as a person that could be counted on for encouragement. A proud Manual Ram her whole life, the color orange was her signature costume choice.

After graduating with a degree in education from Illinois State, Karen settled in the Peoria area,
eventually raising four children with Tom “TC” Clark. Together they raised their four children with realistic expectations and values focused on fortitude and character over monetary successes. To say the Clark household never lacked in self-confidence is an understatement. Karen was never one to mince words with her children and drew on the matter-of-fact environment she experienced growing up in the 50s and 60s when teaching them routines in this Dance of Life. She proudly stated that she never once had to call poison control because she didn’t sugar-coat what would happen if the kids got into household chemicals or cleaners. This parenting style wasn’t limited to her own children; rather, everyone was always welcome with Karen and she treated every character with equal measure.

Adding nine grandchildren: Tyler, Jessi, Megan, Luke, Carter, Joseph, Savvy, Olivia, and Addison, two great-grandchildren, Ashton, and another on the way, Xina, to the chorus line that tap-danced through her heart, she turned into a grandma that could be relied on for intelligence and play and imagination. Allowing a softer side to shine through, as frequently happens when achieving grand status, Steve (Amy), Tara (Mike), Shane (Megan), and Tammy laughingly tell their own children that their grandma was not the same woman that raised them! Shane would even add “that woman’s trying to get into heaven!” with a twinkle in his eye.

Preceded in death by her mother and father as well as her brothers, she maintained a calm assurance of her place in the afterlife. Throughout the Dance, Karen could be counted on to know precisely the next steps to take. She was honest and direct and a quiet beacon to anyone seeking guidance. Never one to showcase unnecessary drama in her performance of Life, she unabashedly raised one eyebrow in disdain toward ostentatious theatrics. Even in her final hours, she chose to exit the stage peacefully and with grace on December 23, 2021.

With a final bow, we invite all of Karen’s fellow dancers in this choreography of Life to share in her memory on March 26, 2022. Visitation at 9:00 am with rosary at 9:30 and memorial mass at 10:00 at St. Ann Catholic Church with Fr. Jeremy Freehill. Celebration of Life to follow at A Royal Remembrance at Grand Prairie from noon to 3:00. An educational scholarship fund has been established in her honor at Better Banks 1204 W Garfield Ave and contributions can be made payable to KAREN CASSIDY CLARK MEMORIAL FUND.

Bruce Waldrop

Canton -Bruce Waldrop, 66, of Canton, passed away, Tuesday, March 15, 2022, at Renaissance Care Center in Canton.

He was born on August 14, 1955, to Kenneth Waldrop and Patricia (Howarter). They preceded him in death.
He is survived by his stepmother, Dixie Waldrop of Texas, three brothers, Joel (Lynne) Waldrop of South Carolina, Jon Waldrop of Colorado, and Kent (Terry) Waldrop of Florida, and one stepsister, Kelly (Dave) Menne of Texas. One son, Jason (Andrea) Crumley, and two grandchildren, Chelsea Crumley and Dalton Crumley, all of Canton, and numerous nieces and nephews
Also preceding him in death is one stepbrother Scott Johnson.
Bruce is a Veteran of the United States Army. He worked in Peoria for Performance Pattern. He enjoyed hunting and fishing and was an avid Chicago Cubs Fan.
Cremation rites will be accorded with Oaks-Hines Funeral Home and Crematory in Canton.
A celebration of life will be held a later date.
Memorials may be made to the American Cancer Society.