Robert “Butch” Maloney

Robert “Butch” Maloney, 74 of Bushnell, Illinois, took off his earth suit and stepped into the arms of his heavenly Father on Wednesday, October 29th at 5:10 pm-Home at last! He was born on February 16, 1951 in Macomb, IL, the son of James and Beverly (Stehl) Maloney. He married his soul mate and the love of his life, LaRita Heaton on December 23, 1971. She survives.

He was blessed with three children; Jason Maloney of Augusta, IL and Deanna Fliege and Nikki Maloney, both of Havana, IL. Then God blessed him again with grandsons Mike Maloney of Macomb, IL, Brandon Maloney of Astoria, IL and Brian Maloney of Augusta, IL.

Butch was an Army veteran, serving from 1969 to 1971 with a rank of SP4.

He was an honorable and faithful protector, provider, friend and mentor to all those whom he loved and cared for. He will be missed by many, including his brothers, Dave Maloney of Prairie City, IL and Jim Maloney of Bushnell, IL, sister-in-law Pat Yost of Havana, IL, brothers-in-law Eldon Heaton of Canton, IL, Ron Heaton of Havana, IL and Lloyd Robinson of Monmouth, IL and numerous cousins, nephews and nieces.

Butch will also be missed by his dearest friends, “The Webb Boys”, Greg, Ron and Jim whom he worked with and farmed in the Astoria area for many years after his retirement from Caterpillar with 30 years of service.

Before he got sick, he worked several years as maintenance man at the Bushnell Super Wash.

So many years of hard work and the longest race he ever ran was the last two years and his accepting Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior, he now lives in a world “no eye has seen, nor ears heard, no mind conceived what God has prepared for those who love Him”.

Services for Butch will be held on Friday, November 7th at 11:00 a.m. at the Bushnell Christian Church. Rex Featherlin will officiate. Visitation will take place one hour prior to the services at the church. Memorials in memory of Butch may be made to the McDonough District Hospice. Cremation rites will be accorded following the services and inurnment will be held in the Vermont Cemetery, Vermont, IL at a later date. Shawgo Memorial Home in Astoria has been entrusted with arrangements.

Glendora F. Stout

Glendora Faye Stout, 98, of Manito, passed away at 2:09 a.m. on Sunday, October 26, 2025 at the Lodge in Manito. She was born on September 2, 1927 in Easton to Gustav and Jesse (Gregory) Pelster. She married Walter Stout on May 15, 1946 in Auburn, Illinois, and he preceded her in death on June 5, 2003.

Glendora is survived by her children, Steven (Marilyn) Stout of Manito, Mary Ann (Carl) Dufner of O’Fallon, Missouri, and Dale (Vicki) Stout of Delavan; seven grandchildren; and nine great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, and sisters, Helena and Mildred Leithoff.
Glendora was a member of the 1st United Methodist Church in Havana. She worked as a paralegal for many years for Bill Knuppel when he was State’s Attorney. She was a member of the Senior Citizens club and Merry Widows. Glendora also enjoyed cooking and gardening in her free time.
Cremation rites have been accorded and a graveside service will be held on Saturday, November 1, 2025 at 11:00 a.m. at Laurel Hill Cemetery in Havana, with Rev. Bob Hearath officiating.
Memorial donations may be made in Glendora’s name to the 1st United Methodist Church in Havana. Online condolences can be left for her family at www.hurleyfh.com.
Hurley Funeral Home in Havana is in charge of arrangements.

Patrick “Pat” McGurk

Patrick “Pat” McGurk,87, of Canton, passed away at 6:08 am, October 23, 2025 at his residence. He was born on April 22, 1938 in Peoria to Francis Emmett and Irene (Rolff) McGurk. He married Norma Thornton on May 6, 1961 in Peoria. She survives along with five children; Lynn E. (Mark) Delost, Lori A. McGurk, Todd P. (Wendy) McGurk, Amy (Brian) Eddy all of Canton and Michael S. (Heather) McGurk of Pekin, two brothers; Edward Clark of Peoria and David McGurk of Creve Couer, seven grandchildren; Jacob (Alexa) Churchill, Mason (Anne) Duquenne, Lynzee (Billy) Kinsel, Mykayla McGurk, Gavin Eddy, McKenzie (Russell) Sarff and Kendra McGurk and eight great-grandchildren.

Pat was preceded in death by his parents, brother Thomas McGurk and grandson Cory Churchill.

He worked at Sherex Chemical Company in Mapleton, retiring in 1999. Pat was a member the First Baptist Church in Canton and a veteran of the United States Air Force.

Cremation rites have been accorded through Oaks-Hines Funeral Home in Canton. A memorial service will be held at 11 am, Saturday, November 1, 2025 at the First Baptist Church Fellowship Hall in Canton. Military Honor’s will follow outside in the garden and a luncheon will be served following the Military Honor’s. Memorials can be made to either the First Baptist Church or Willow Ridge Hospice. To leave online condolences, please visit oakshinesfuneralhome.com

Helen M. Laurson

Helen M. Laurson passed away on October 24, 2025, in Farmington, Illinois. She was 101.

Born on February 22, 1924, to Leonard and Ruth Hills in Douglas, Illinois, Helen grew up in that town and attended primary school there. She graduated from Yates City High School in 1942. Helen married William (Bill) Allen on Valentine’s Day, 1951, and together they had two children, Jerrie Lynn and William. Bill died in 1970, and in 1977 Helen married Herman Laurson, who died in 1988.

Helen was a wonderful quilter, a baker of bread and cookies, a member of the Eastern Stars, and a lifelong diehard Chicago Cubs fan. If there was a Cubs game on, it was playing in her living room. She knew every player and their strengths and followed the team with steady devotion.

Her home was a haven of warmth and a little whimsy. The scent of baked goods always greeted her grandchildren when they visited from Alaska, and her freezer was always stocked with treats for any occasion. Hundreds of pig figurines—gifts from friends and loved ones—decorated every surface. Family photos covered the walls, keeping loved ones close even when they were far away.

Helen was known for her legendary strawberry jam, which she mailed every summer to her granddaughters in Alaska. Every holiday season she would bake dozens of varieties of cookies to share with loved ones, a tradition that lives on through her granddaughters and great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her brother Raymond; her three sisters, Dorothy, Mildred Ruth, and Emma Jane; and her son, William. She is survived by her daughter, Jerrie (Allen) Graham; two grandchildren, Jaime Graham and Michelle Graham; and four great-grandchildren, Rayne, Aurora, Aria, and Atlas.

Helen’s legacy lives on in the recipes she passed down, the quilts she stitched with love, and the traditions she inspired. She will be remembered for her quiet strength, her fun spirit, and the way she made her house feel like home to everyone who walked through the door.

Graveside services will be held on Wednesday, October 29, 2025, at 11:00 a.m., at Yates City Cemetery followed by food and fellowship at the Douglas United Methodist Church.

To leave online condolences, please visit www.oakshinesfuneralhome

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

Lloyd R. Wages

Lloyd R. Wages, aged 94, of Titusville, FL, went to be with his Lord and Savior on October 23,2025. Born July 20, 1931, in Canton, Illinois, he was the beloved husband of Nelda, who preceded him death after 71 years of marriage.

Lloyd proudly served in the Army during the Korean War, demonstrating a steadfast commitment to his country. After his military service, he dedicated over four decades as a Baptist Minister, leading congregations in Wisconsin, Michigan, Indiana, and Illinois. He and his wife retired to Florida and were members of Victory Baptist Church of Cocoa, FL.

An alumnus of Bob Jones University in Greenville, SC, Lloyd was deeply committed to education and lifelong learning. His intellectual curiosity was also evident in his daily “A Thought From The Word” posts on Facebook and emails, which were cherished by friends and family alike.

Lloyd was a beloved family man, survived by his daughters, Lynn Mulligan of Titusville, FL and Jann (Gary) Faiga of Port St. John, FL; his daughter-in-law Jacquelyn Statis Wages of Maywood, NJ; a grandson, Sean Rollins (Amy Crane) and granddaughter Shannon (Jerry) Rodriguez all of Florida. Also, great grandchildren Kastyn and Reilly Faiga of Florida as well as many other extended family members.

In addition to his wife, he was preceded in death by his son, Timothy, his parents Estie and Bessie Wages, and four older brothers, Lewis, Frank, Roy, and Raymond.

A funeral service will be held on Saturday, November 1, 2025, at Oaks-Hines Funeral Home in Canton, at 11:00 a.m., visitation will be held one hour prior to the funeral service, 10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m., Burial with military honors will immediately follow at Breeds/Orendorff Cemetery in Canton.

Mary O. Preece

Mary O. Preece, 99, of Canton, passed away peacefully on October 21, 2025, at Red Oak Memory Care. Born February 1, 1926, in Canton, Illinois, to Clyde and Mary Orthalene (Brant) Myers — the kind of parents who raised her to be strong, kind, and steady, with a deep appreciation for family.

Mary’s life was defined by the things she cherished most: family, friendship, and good food shared around the table. On June 8, 1947, she married her sweetheart, Aaron C. Preece. Together, they built a home with their three children — Pamela (Keith) Dunblazier, Stephen Preece, and Diana (Curtis) Roe. Aaron passed away on March 7, 2016, but their bond and shared stories continued to fill Mary’s heart and mind every day thereafter. Also preceding her in death were her parents, two brothers, Clyde and John Myers; and three sisters, Lida Banko, Pheobe Owens, and Joan Hoff. Survived by her three children named above, and also her brother, Jack Myers; six grandchildren, Scott (Sarah) Dunblazier, Kristen Dunblazier, Travis Miller, Marie Miller, Kellie (Kirkland) Howell, and Brock Bower-Preece; six great-grandchildren, Nolan Dunblazier, Addelynn Miller, Waylon Miller, Warren Miller, Weston Miller, and Walker Miller. Mary spent part of her career as a Librarian at Central and Lincoln Elementary Schools in Canton, later working for the Board of Trades in Peoria before retiring in 1994. Known for her sense of style — Mary was always put together, elegant, and never once seen wearing the same outfit twice, as her grandson liked to joke. She carried herself with quiet grace, but her laughter and charm made her unforgettable. She was also an incredible cook — her pies, especially, were a family treasure. No holiday was complete without one of Grandma’s perfect desserts.

Mary loved golf almost as much as she loved her family, and she was a loyal fan of Tiger Woods. One of her favorite memories was attending the 2004 Masters, where she got to see Tiger play in person — a lifelong dream come true.

Her proudest moments, though, weren’t on a golf course. They were the times spent with her family — her three children, six grandchildren, and six great-grandchildren — sharing stories, cheering on their dreams, and watching the generations grow. Nothing made her happier than being surrounded by the people she loved most. Mary had a way of lighting up a room when she walked in. Her smile was warm, her kindness

genuine, and her compassion endless. She gave without expecting anything in return and carried herself with the kind of beauty that came from the inside out.

She leaves behind a legacy of love — one built on the foundation of family and the belief that life’s greatest treasures are found in the moments shared with others. Mary will be deeply missed by everyone who was lucky enough to know her, and her memory will continue to live on in the hearts of those she touched.

Cremation rites have been accorded through Oaks-Hines Funeral Home and Crematory in Canton. A private burial of ashes will take place at a later date. Online condolences may be shared at www.oakshinesfuneralhome.com.

Marlenna L. Smysor

Marlenna Lee Jennings-Smysor passed away peacefully October 26, 2025 at OSF Richard Owens Hospice House in Peoria surrounded by family.

She was born March 28, 1976 at Galesburg to Robert and Laurie Jennings of Abingdon. She graduated from Warren High School in 1994 and achieved her Masters in Special Education/Teaching from Western Illinois University graduating Suma Cum Laude. She used her teaching degree to help numerous kids throughout the Knox-Warren Special Education system to achieve great things.

Marlenna loved her children, students, family, and friends fiercely. She loved playing trivia, painting/art, shopping, The Princess Bride (she actually met Cary Elwes recently-check off her bucket list), dragons, platypus, and so much more.

She is survived by her parents, Robert and Laurie Jennings of Abingdon; husband, Matthew Smysor of Smithfield; children, Cassie (and JC) Hart of Kirkwood, Paige (and Caleb) Smysor of Galesburg, and Lauryn, Ghlee, and Jake of Smithfield; grandchildren, Emmaline, Robert, and Arlo; siblings, Angela Jennings of Abingdon, Sabrina (and Russ) Bohannon of FL; and Gaven (Cassy Smith) Jennings of Macomb, nieces, Sheridan, Arya, and Alissa; nephews, Jackson, Brendan, Ashton, and Blake; and great-niece/nephew, Zoey and Tucker.

She was preceded in death by her maternal and paternal grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousins.

Cremation will be accorded. A celebration of life will be held at a later date to be determined. 

Antonio “Mike” Turk

Antonio “Mike” Turk, 74, of Canton, passed away at 8:32 PM on Thursday, October 23, 2025 at Graham Hospital in Canton, IL. He was born on September 13, 1951 in Pekin, IL, to Antonio and Katherine (Gerbach) Turk. He married Kathryn Weaver on June 12, 1971 in Lewistown, IL. She survives.

He is also survived by one daughter, Tracey (the late Greg Behrens) Turk; one brother, Joe Turk, two nephews, Scott (Kim) Turk and Quintin Turk; one niece, Jillian Jester; one great nephew, Dash Turk, and one great niece, Lydia Jester.

He is preceded in death by his parents.

Mike was the owner of Turk Alignment. He was a lifelong old car enthusiast. He also enjoyed drag car racing and Nascar. Mike also volunteered for the Buckheart Fire Department.

Cremation rites will be accorded with Sedgwick Funeral Homes & Crematory in Canton, IL. Memorials may be made to the Fulton County Humane Society or the Buckheart Fire Department. To leave an online condolence you may go to www.sedgwickfuneralhomes.com

Debbie Lynn Bellville

Debbie Lynn Bellville, 67, of Havana, passed away at 4:07 PM on Tuesday, October 21, 2025 at Springfield Memorial Hospital in Springfield, IL. She was born on September 23, 1958 in Canton, IL, to Ron and Edna (Whittington) Pemble.

She is survived by three children, Heather Radwan of Canton, IL, Heidi (Chris) Daniels of Rogers, AR, and Terri Shaikh of Westfield, IL; five grandchildren, Alex Cummins, Landon Cummins, Drew Radwan, Kennedy Daniels and London Daniels; two great-grandchildren, Finleigh and Leo; one brother, Tom Pemble of Peoria, IL; two sisters, Crisy McMillan of Kansas, IL and Kim Fischer of St. David, IL; and several nieces and nephews.

She is preceded in death by her parents and one sister, Tammy Mitchell.

Debbie enjoyed being a school bus driver for First Student in Hanna City, IL. She loved her family, kids and grandkids. She also loved her dog, Izzy. Debbie was of Christian faith and was a beloved friend to many. 

Memorial service will be held at 11 AM on Saturday, November 1, 2025 at Sedgwick Funeral Homes & Crematory in Canton, IL. Rev. Dr. John Herndon will officiate. Visitation will be held the same day from 10 AM – 11 AM at the funeral home. Cremation rites will be accorded with Sedgwick Funeral Homes & Crematory in Canton, IL. Memorials may be made to Gift of Hope. To view Debbie’s memorial video or to make an online condolence you may go to www.sedgwickfuneralhomes.com

Doris M. Doubet

Doris M. Doubet, 95, previously of Yates City, passed away on October 22, 2025, at Ever True Lutheran Hillside in Peoria. She was born on November 22, 1929, in Greenbush, IL, to Charles and Nancy (Felton) Martin. Doris was preceded in death by her parents, two brothers, and one sister. She married Donald Doubet on July 1, 1949, in Galesburg, IL. He also preceded her in death on July 29, 2012.

Surviving are her three children, Charles “Chuck” (Wendy) Doubet; two daughters, Donna (Tim) Williams and Cynthia “Cindy” (Chuck) Kellstadt. Also surviving are eight grandchildren, Richard “Rick” (Jamie) Doubet, Kathryn “Katie” (Kevin) Wills, Nancy (Jonathan) Sebast, Regena “Gena” (Adam) Lessner, Gerri (Mike) Hamen, Brian (Traci) Kellstadt, Eric (Leslie) Kellstadt, and Kathryn “Blondie” (Justin) Maskrey; twenty-four great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.

Doris was a member of the Douglas United Methodist Church, where she sang in the choir, taught Sunday school, and belonged to the Douglas Ladies. She worked for Gross Galesburg, sat and took care of the elderly, and worked at Caterpillar and Proctor Place. She loved to cook and have people at the house. Her family loved her homemade noodles, and everyone loved her pies; she also liked to crochet.

A funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m., on November 3, 2025, at Oaks-Hines Funeral Home in Elmwood. A visitation will be held prior to the service the same day from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m., at the funeral home. Burial will immediately follow the service at Yates City Cemetery.

Memorials may be made to the Doulgas United Methodist Church.

To view Doris’s video tribute or to leave online condolences, please visit www.oakshinesfuneral

Delores K. Maxson

Delores K. Maxson, age 77 of Table Grove, Illinois, passed away at 10:31 p.m. Friday, October 24, 2025 at Countryside Care Center in Macomb, Illinois. She was born on April 12, 1948 in Table Grove, Illinois, the daughter of Kelly and Marjorie (Abernathy) Fewkes.

Delores first married Tommy Rutledge, Sr. and together they had two sons, Tommy (Dawn Clark) Rutledge, Jr. and Donnie (Laurie) Rutledge, both who survive. She later married Richard Maxson on October 28, 1968 in Jefferson City, Missouri. He survives and they have one daughter, Deanna (Joe) Twaddle, who survives.

Also surviving are eight grandchildren; Tori (Andrew) Koss, Brea Chambers, Maegan Rutledge, Kurtis Rutledge, Dalton Rutledge, Carrie Hammer, Trey (Brandi) Twaddle, and Kelli Twaddle, along with twelve great-grandchildren, her brother J. Paul Fewkes and sister Judy Goulding.

She was preceded in death by her granddaughter, Cheyenne Rutledge and three brothers, Charles, Ronnie, and Joe Kelly Fewkes.

Delores worked for Walmart in the claims and housekeeping departments. She enjoyed sewing, quilting and reading James Patterson books. She also like to go to yard sales and spend time with all her grandchildren.

She was baptized at the Table Grove Community Church and attended there her entire lifetime.

Cremation rites have been accorded. A visitation will take place on Friday, October 31st from 10:00-11:00 am at Shawgo Memorial Home in Astoria, Illinois. Graveside inurnment will be held at 11:30 am on Friday at the Harris Cemetery. Memorials in Delores’ memory may be given to the American Lung Cancer Association.