Brenda Simmers

Brenda Kay Simmers, 61, of Havana, passed away peacefully at home on Monday, July 29, 2024, at 6:41 a.m., with her family by her side. She was born in Canton on February 7, 1963, to Ruth and Clint Morrill. Preceding her in death is her mother, Ruth Fellas, step mother, Betty Morrill, step father Melvin Rilea, and two sisters, Delita “Dee” Wilkey, and Gina Rilea.

Brenda married Roger Simmers on February 7, 1981 in Canton. He also preceded her in death.

Surviving are three sons, Robbie Simmers of Pekin, Billy Simmers of Havana, and Brandon Simmers Havana, seven grandchildren, Star Peace, Lila Simmers both of Havana, Emerie, Mason, Caleb, Addison and Hailee Simmers all of Pekin, her father Clint (Donna) Morrill, one sister, Kim Martin, and two brothers, Greg (Candance) Morrill, and Jaimie Morrill, 13 nieces and nephews, 8 great nieces and nephews and one great great nephew, and her best friend of 46 years Ivy (Scott) Cooper.

Brenda had several jobs over the years. Her favorite was driving a school bus for Havana School District. Each child had a special place in her heart she loved them all. They were “her kids”.

She loved all her family and all animals, She attended Havana Assembly of God Church. She will be missed dearly by everyone who knew her.

Per Bendas’s wishes cremation rites will be accorded and there will be no services.

To leave online condolences please visit, oakshinesfuneralhome.com

Samuel Ruey, Sr.

Samuel Ruey Sr., 85, of Canton, passed away on Sunday, July 28, 2024 at Renaissance Care Center in Canton.

He was born on September 30, 1938 in Breeds to Russell and Florence (Culton) Ruey. They preceded him in death.

He married Sherrill Fuller on February 7, 1959 in Monterey, IL. She survives.

Also surviving are his children, Russell (Stephanie) Ruey of Canton, Aaron Ruey of Canton, one sister, Annamae Spenny of Peoria, five grandchildren, Sasha, Taylor, Madison, Culton, Samuel III and great grandchildren, Lilly, Olivia, Sylas, Berkley and Easton. His grandkids were the joy of his life.

Also preceding him in death is an infant daughter, Kelly and his son Samuel Ruey Jr.

He started his working career on the tug boats on the Illinois River. He then worked at International Harvester as a foreman at Department #20, #1 and the tool room. After the shop closed, he worked at IH in Memphis. He later worked as the sexton for Greenwood Cemetery in Canton. He volunteered for the Copperas Creek Fire Department and was a member of Ducks Unlimited.

Sam’s passion was duck hunting, his pursuit took him as far away as Stuttgart, Arkansas the duck hunting capital of the world. His preference was the river bottoms around Banner, including his two favorite spots, Pond Lily at Big Lake and the Ridge field at Rice Lake. His hobby was hand carving duck decoys and worked on gun stocks and forearms.

Sam and Sherrill enjoyed their time together going for daily drives stopping for lunch and antique shopping.

Cremation rites have been accorded through Oaks-Hines Funeral Home and Crematory in Canton. A celebration of his life will be held at a later date.

Memorials may be made to the Fulton County Humane Society.

To leave online condolences please visit oakshinesfuneralhome.com

Martin Dale Hanson

Martin Dale Hanson, 72, of Lewistown, passed away at 5:46pm on Saturday July 27, 2024. Martin was born on December 7, 1951, in Topeka, Kansas. He passed away surrounded by his children. He was the son of Marvin and Lyda Louise (Davis) Hanson, Martin was one of eleven children. On September 28, 1979, Martin married Mary Jean Atchison, who preceded him in death along with his parents and siblings, Charles, David, Jerry, and Kathy.Martin is survived by his three children, Marty (Kristy) Hanson and Dale (Rachel) Hanson, both of Smithfield, IL, and Jennifer Strait of Cuba, IL. He is also survived by his step-children, Missy, Brian, and Allen “Tuffy”, all of Missouri. His surviving siblings include Marlene Bollinger of Pekin, IL, Joyce Clark of St. Joseph, MO, Threasa (Jeff) Samuel of Peoria, IL, Cheryl Camp of Winchester, IL, Coral Lewis of Rockford, IL, and Lewis (Donna) Hanson of Burnsville, MN. Martin leaves behind many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, great-great grandchildren and his faithful dog, Odee. A dedicated worker, Martin's career spanned several factories in Illinois, including Admiral Corporation, Abingdon Pottery, and the Dana Corporation. Later, he moved to Missouri, where he continued his hard work as a laborer for many years. Martin will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all who knew him. His memory will live on in the hearts of those who loved him. Martin will be cremated. A celebration of his life will be held at 3 pm, August 3, 2024 at the American Grill in Canton, IL. Memorials can be made to the family. Private burial of ashes will take place at a later date. Oak-Hines Funeral Home and Crematory in Canton is in charge of arrangements. To view Martin’s DVD or to make on line condolence please visit www.oakshinesfuneralhome.com

Jon Rogers

Jon S. Rogers, 57, of Peoria, passed away at his home on July 26, 2024. Jon was born on December 4, 1966, to Louis and Judith Rogers in Galesburg, Illinois. Jon was preceded in death by his loving mother, Judith A. Rogers. He is survived by his father, Louis F. Rogers of Yates City and his sister, Catherine (Mark) Bovard of Mattoon, Illinois and his faithful dog, Pepper. He is also survived by four very special cousins and Aunt, Fran Sandfort of Asheville, NC. Jon leaves behind a large community of friends, as he never met a stranger and lived life to its fullest.

After graduating from Yates City High School in 1985, he attended Illinois State University where he was active in his fraternity, Sigma Tau Gamma, and graduated with a degree in Political Science in 1990. At ISU, Jon was active in ROTC and was commissioned 2nd Lieutenant in the Army upon graduation. He was a Platoon Leader/Project manager at the United States Army Reserve 724th Transportation Company from 1989 to 1997. Jon proudly served in Operation Desert Storm and was a patriot through and through. He loved history and could recount details of any Civil War or World War 2 battle.

Jon was a National Account Sales Executive at G&D Integrated in Morton, Illinois since 2016. Prior to G&D, he was a Sales Executive at Federal Companies in Peoria. He also had several part time jobs over the years which allowed him to share his gregarious personality with many. He was an active Uber driver and former bartender at the Tartan Inn and Dormitory in Peoria. He had a wonderful sense of humor and quick wit. Heaven gained the funniest angel.

Jon was a Green Bay Packers and St. Louis Cardinals fan who enjoyed attending and watching games with friends. He enjoyed playing guitar and singing karaoke with “Roadhouse Blues” by the Doors being his go-to song. Jon loved boating with his friends on his boat “The Dazed and Confused”. He was the life of the party. His river community was strong and plentiful. Jon also stayed in close touch with his high school friends and loved to hang out with the Straight out of Yates Crew! Other hobbies of Jon’s were gardening, listening to music, cooking, reading, watching movies, and most of all spending time with family and friends. He loved poetry with one of his favorite poems being “Richard Cory” by Edward Arlington Robinson. He was able to quote it line for line. He also loved TS Elliot and British war poets. He was opinionated and well-schooled in many topics and loved to debate with others. Jon was a Christian and grew up in the Faith United Presbyterian Church in Yates City. He was an eloquent man and excellent conversationalist.

Jon had many friends whom he loved and were family to him. To quote one of Jon’s favorite movies, “It’s a Wonderful Life”: “Each man’s life touches so many other lives. When he isn’t around, he leaves an awful hole, doesn’t he”. Jon leaves a hole in many lives but will live on with memories of his antics. You could always count on him for a good story and experience. To quote a friend of Jon’s who said it best: “Live like Jon – know no stranger, show kindness, be there, and be present!”

Memorials may be made to the ARK Humane Society in Lacon, IL or the Salem Township Library.

Funeral will be at 1pm Saturday, August 3, 2024 at the Faith United Presbyterian Church in Yates City. Visitation will be prior to the service from 10am-1pm. Burial will be in Yates City, Illinois. Immediately following the funeral, a celebration of life will be held at the Yates City Community Center.

Cremation rites have been accorded through Oaks-Hines Funeral Home and Crematory in Elmwood.

To leave online condolences please visit oakshinesfuneralhome.com

Shirley Korth

Shirley Korth, 95, of Yates City, passed away on Thursday, July 25, 2024 at her home surrounded by her family.

She was born on June 10, 1929, the oldest child, to Eugene and Mary (Maston) Wieland.

She married Marion Whitmore and he preceded her in death. She later married David Korth who also preceded her in death.

Surviving are her children, Gloria (late Gene) Arnold, Mary Bliss, Leo Whitmore, Gary (Sherri) Whitmore, Keith (Tiffany) Whitmore, brothers, Con (Linda) Wieland, John (Bev) Wieland, sisters, Ellen (Jim) Purple, Carol Wieland, Sharon (late Bob) Goodman, twenty-one grandchildren, forty-four great grandchildren and nine great-great grandchildren.

Also preceding her in death are ten siblings, two grandchildren and one great grandchild.

Shirley worked at Home Comfort in Princeville, Elm Haven Nursing Home and at a nursing home in Arizona.

She was a devoted Christian Women. Besides her family God was her priority. She listened to a Christian Ministry everyday until a few months before her passing.

Shirley was a sweet kind lady who was a grandma to everyone. She loved to have visitors and you never left without a hug.

Her main hobby was crocheting blankets for her family.

She was a breast cancer survivor.

A funeral service will be held on Wednesday, July 31, 2024 at 11 am with a visitation held one hour prior at the Oaks-Hines Funeral Home in Elmwood.

Burial will follow at the Texas Cemetery.

Memorials may be made to Elba-Salem Fire Department.

To leave online condolences please visit, oakshinesfuneralhome.com

Lenny Dean Hughes

Lenny Dean Hughes, 65, passed away on June 26th, 2024 surrounded by family at his home. He was born on December 9th, 1958 to Lloyd and Bertha (Witherall) Hughes in Havana, IL. He married Angel (Tamulis) Hughes on January 25th, 1990. She survives.

Lenny is survived by his wife, Angel Hughes; his daughters, Maxine (David) Richards of Macomb, Keshia (Chris) Williams of Vermont, IL; his grandchildren, Ann Marie Hughes, Todd Hughes, Harlee Hughes, Payten Smith, Brysen Smith, Kaylee Smith, Jordyn Smith, Jaxson Williams, Alexis Inman; his siblings, Ronald (Karen) Hughes of Mt. Carmel, IL, Faye Hughes of Bath, Trina (Charles) Pratt of Kilbourne, Janice (Paul) Stevens of Havana, Llyod (Melody) Hughes of Havana; sister-in-laws, Sharon Hughes and Teresa Hughes; brother-in-laws, John Tamulis and Herbert Tamulis and many nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his son, Larry Hughes, his grandson, Jacob Moulton, his parents, his brothers, Russle Hughes and Robert Hughes and his in-laws, John and Barbara Tamulis.

Cremation rites have been accorded. A celebration of life for Lenny will take place on Sunday August 4th, 2024 at the Kilbourne Fire Department House from 1-4pm . Memorial contributions may be made to the family of Lenny Hughes.

Online memorial messages may be left for the family at www.hurleyfh.com.

Hurley Funeral Home in Havana is in charge of arrangements.

Grover E. Parks

Grover E. Parks, 69, of Canton, passed away July 16, 2024, at his home. He was born on September 9, 1954. Grover Married Brenda Parks, on October 4, 1980, in Mason County. She preceded him in death one June 23, 2021. He was a Veteran of the United States Marine Corps. Grover also worked at Graham Hospital for many years. Cremation rites will be accorded with Oaks-Hines Funeral Home in Canton.

Denise L. Bollinger

Denise L. Bollinger, of Rushville, IL, passed away at 7:53 pm on Tuesday, July 23, 2024 at Blessing Hospital in Quincy, IL. She was born on March 6, 1961, the daughter of Donald and Joanne Williams. Denise married Bill Bollinger on June 24, 1978 in Taylorville, IL. He survives.

Also surviving are her three children; Andrew Bollinger of Rushville, William Matthew Bollinger of Rushville and Susan (and Bobbie) Cook of Dunmor, KY, eleven grandchildren, three great grandchildren, and two brothers; Shane Williams of Rushville and George Williams of Taylorville.

She is preceded in death six brothers; Denny Williams, Stanley Williams, Dale Williams, David Williams, Donnie Williams, and Dwight Williams, and three sisters; Lewanda Bailey, Mary Sinkcorn and Joette Prince.

Denise worked at Stevens Publishing Company in production for 15 years. She also worked at Meadow Manor Nursing Home in Taylorville at one time. She worked in home healthcare for over 20 years.

Denise loved dragons, and collecting statues, candles and anything to do with dragons. She enjoyed working, walking and taking care of people. Denise was known for taking care of many kids, all calling her “grandma” or “mom”.

Cremation rites have been accorded. Memorials may be made to the Schuyler County Humane Society.

Layklynn Perry Breese

Layklynn Perry Breese, 9 days old, passed away at 7:10 PM on Sunday, July 21, 2024 at OSF Saint Francis Medical Center in Peoria. She was born at 6:18 AM on Friday, July 12, 2024 in Peoria, a daughter of Alyssa McGinnis and Randy Breese. They survive.

Also surviving are her maternal grandparents, Leona (Shelby) Harper, & James (Leslie) McGinnis; paternal grandmother, Jacqueline Hammond; maternal great-grandparents, Perry (Tammie) Denning, David (Judy) McGinnis; paternal great-grandmother, Barb Breese, and aunts, Tyonna (Ian) Rose, Zelda Harper, Brandy Breese; Uncles, Christopher McGinnis, and Tucker Hammond.

Cremation rites will be accorded through Sedgwick Funeral Homes & Crematory.

Wilma L. Dierker

Wilma L. Dierker, 94, of Havana, passed away at Clayberg Nursing Center, in Cuba, Illinois, at 12:25 p.m., on Friday, July 19, 2024. She was born April 1, 1930, in Mason County, Illinois, to Louis and Freida (Sarff) Dierker.

Ms. Dierker is survived by one niece, Margaret (Mike) Martin, of Havana; one nephew: Mark (Mary) Westman, of Kingfisher, Oklahoma; several great-nieces, great-nephews, great-great-nieces, and great-great nephews. Also surviving is one sister, Elsie Westman, of Havana. She was preceded in death by her parents; two nephews: Michael Westman and Matthew Westman; and niece, Melinda Gilmore.
Ms. Dierker was a member of St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, in Havana. She was a receptionist for Dr. Landazuri, in Havana, for many years. She later worked for the State of Illinois in the HR Department until her retirement.
A memorial service will be at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, in Havana, on Wednesday, July 31, with Rev. Ian Heinze officiating, at 11:00 a.m., with visitation one hour prior to the services. Burial will follow the service at Laurel Hill Cemetery in Havana.
Memorial contributions may be made to St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Havana. Online memorial messages may be left for the family at www.hurleyfh.com.
Hurley Funeral Home, in Havana, is in charge of arrangements.