Byron Keith Ward, 63, of Buckner, IL, passed away at 12:30 a.m., July 10, 2026 at his home, surrounded by his family.

Byron was born on July 27, 1962 to Keith and Leota Ruth (Connor) Ward, of Sesser, IL.

Byron worked for many years as a coal miner at various local mines until his health declined and he was forced to retire. In his younger days Byron was a talented Flat Track motorcycle racer, winning many competitions throughout the region. His family said that motorcycle racing remained his true passion throughout his entire life. Byron was also an avid and experienced Ham Radio operator for decades. He also had a passion for music and playing his guitar, and in the words of his family, “wore his heart on his sleeve…for better or worse.”
Byron was a graduate of Sesser-Valier High School with the Class of 1981.

Byron is survived by his longtime significant other, Tonya (Spann) Kennedy, his son Jordan, of Coello, IL; siblings Brandi Ward and Scott Ward, both of Sesser, IL. Byron is also survived by many cousins and friends.

Byron was preceded in death by his parents and his paternal and maternal grandparents.

Funeral services will be held Friday, July 17, 2026 at 11 a.m. at Brayfield-Gilbert Funeral Home, in Sesser, with Jim Muir officiating. Visitation will be from 9 a.m. until the time of the service at 11 a.m.

Brayfield-Gilbert Funeral Home, of Sesser, is in charge of arrangements.

Larry J. Hood, 68, of Winchester, Tennessee, passed away peacefully on July 1, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family.

Larry was born on January 28, 1958, in Harvey, Illinois, to the late James Hood and Alma (Anderson) Hood.

Larry lived a life defined by hard work, determination, and a deep love for those he cared about. He never met a stranger and had a way of making everyone feel welcome. He enjoyed fishing, working with his hands, and spending time with family and friends. He was known for his sense of humor, his strong will, and his loyalty.

Larry’s greatest pride and joy was his family. He was a devoted father and a constant source of love, guidance, and support. His memory will live on in the lives of all who knew and loved him.

Larry is survived by his son, Josh Hood.

He is also survived by his sister, Glenda Pool of Sebring, Florida; a half-brother, James (Helen) Rusher of Sesser, Illinois; and several nieces and nephews, including Jacob Shifflett of Nashville, Tennessee.

He was preceded in death by his parents, James and Alma Hood; his sisters, Pamela Williams Dorris and Deborah Navarro; and his half-sister, Doris Stewart.

Following his wishes, Larry will be cremated. A Celebration of Life will be held at a future date. Details will be shared when available.

“The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.”
— Psalm 34:18

Celebration of Life
A Celebration of Larry’s Life will be held at a future date. Details will be announced when available.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you spend time with your loved ones and cherish every moment.

Estella Maxine (Hunt) Towers-Binando age 97 passed away July 11, 2026. She was the only child of George and Effie (Hart) Beneventi.

Maxine graduated from Christopher Community High School in 1948. She graduated from Memorial Hospital School of Nursing, Springfield, IL in September of 1951. She and John E (Gene) Towers were united in marriage June 17, 1951 at The First Baptist Church in Christopher, IL. Four children were born to this union; Sheila Ann, John Eric, David Eugene, and Richard Eugene.

She was employed as a Registered Nurse for 41 years in numerous positions and locations, retiring from Franklin-Williamson Bi-County Health Department in 1992.

In 1992, she married Joe P. Binando Jr, they were in the same graduating class at CCHS. He preceded her in death.

Her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren were the greatest joys and most treasured blessings of her life. She is lovingly remembered by her daughter, Sheila (Rex) English, and their children: Seth (Mehgan) English and their daughters, Jorja, Hattie, and Josie; Stella (Gary) Triplett and their son, Abbott; and Katie (Andy) Pettit and their sons, Spencer and Finnegan. She is also survived by her son, John Eric (Lynn) Towers of Anderson Island, Washington; the family of her late son, David E. Towers, who passed away on November 16, 1990, at the age of 30. David’s children include Ben (Stephanie) Towers and their daughter, Henley, and Janel Towers and her daughter, Emma. Her son Richard (Jeanette) Towers and their children, Jacob (Madison) Towers and Victoria Towers. She also leaves behind many beloved cousins and dear friends who will cherish her memory.

Maxine exemplified what service to others meant through her deeds and faith. Until recently, she was out-and-about checking in with her family, friends and providing comfort to those in need. Maxine’s love, generosity, and caring will be sorely missed but her life’s work as a mother, Nana, friend and nurse will remain in our hearts forever.

Private burial services will be held at Harrison Cemetery. Memorials can be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital in Nashville, TN, The Baptist Children’s Home in Carmi, IL, or Harrison Cemetery Association.

Her children would be honored to receive family, extended family, friends, and acquaintances at a luncheon in celebration of the life of Mom, Nana, Maxine at Christopher Civic Center, Wednesday, July 15, 2026 at 11:00 am.

Richard Gale LeVault, 89, passed away on Tuesday, July 7, 2026, at his home.

A private graveside service will be held on Friday, July 10, 2026, at 3:30 p.m. at Maple Hill Cemetery in Sesser, with Brother Gilbert Craig officiating.

Richard Gale LeVault was born August 13, 1936, to Hallice and Lucille LeVault in Valier, IL. He married his high school sweetheart, Iris Marie Piper on

June 9, 1957, and they have been married for 69 years.

After high school he worked various jobs as a mechanic, drove a milk truck for Prairie Farms, and worked at Sesser Block Plant for the first seven years he

and Iris were married. He then became a coal miner and retired from there. Also, he farmed part time throughout the many different jobs. When asking which was

his favorite job, he responded, “I never worked anywhere that I didn’t enjoy!”

A few of his hobbies that he even enjoyed as a kid were hunting and fishing. He had plenty of stories to tell about that were back in the days. Later when Todd

and Toni were kids, adding to those interests were water skiing and boating- enjoying the Rend Lake area still in the places that he grew up on. He has always

liked working with his hands, whether it was being a mechanic, woodworking, gardening-with keeping everyone in produce, and taking care of his chickens-

keeping everyone in eggs. He also loved mowing his yard-it didn’t matter who started on the LeVault Hill-before long all three brothers were going at it! Last

fall, Richard got Todd involved in getting him a loom and started weaving rugs, again giving most of them away. There are surely many things left out, but the

most important is that he loved all of us and we all loved him.

Richard is survived by his wife, Iris of Sesser, one daughter, Toni and husband, Keith Morhet of Benton; one son, Todd and wife, Melody LeVault of

Mulkeytown; three grandsons, Keith II and wife, Dawn Morhet of Booneville, IN, Jacob and wife, Tiff Morhet of Benton, Matt and wife, Jesse LeVault of Sesser;

one granddaughter, Katerina and husband, Jeremy McKinney of Christopher; four great grandsons, Max, Nash, and Oliver Morhet, Braxton McKinney; one great

granddaughter, Willow McKinney; two brothers, Jim and wife, Peg LeVault of Sesser, Tom LeVault of Sesser.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Hallice and Lucille LeVault; daughter, Jana LeVault; son, Matthew LeVault; sisters-in-law, Brenda LeVault, Betty Laur, Marge Piper, Ilah Mae Piper; brothers-in-law, Dallas Laur, Ted Piper, Don Piper and Darrell Piper.

Richard, known as Dick, Dad, Pop, Grandpa, Uncle Dick and “Ground Squirrel” on the CB, will be greatly missed, but we have a lot of great memories and stories to remember him by. He was faithful to God, his wife, Iris, family and friends.

For more information please visit gilbertfuneralhomes.com

Doris June Leek, 93, of Coello, formerly of Valier, passed away at 6:15 PM, Friday, July 3, 2026 at her home.

Doris was born on April 18, 1933 in Sesser to Louis and Mary (Casey) Furlow. She married Charles Leek on December 26, 1959 at Hazel Dell Church. He preceded her in death on January 25, 2003.

She worked for a short time as a telephone operator after high school before dedicating her life to caring for her beloved family.

She was a member of the Bethel Community Church where she sang in the choir and taught Sunday School. She was a talented singer and was a member of the “Gospelette Trio”. They recorded two albums.

Doris was a deeply faithful woman who loved God. She enjoyed porch sitting and baking red velvet cookies and her famous raisin squares.

She is survived by her daughter- Shelley (Bob) Moyers of Coello; grandchildren- Adam Moyers of Coello, Madison (River) Edwards of Sullivan and Maggie Bates of Mulkeytown and son in law- Doug Bates of Mulkeytown as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, daughter- Deidre Bates; brothers- Noble, Earl, Paul, Howard and Stanley Furlow and sisters- Pearl Gilliam and Edith Chapman as well as her special friend- Ron Terry.

The funeral service will be held at 11:00 AM, Friday, July 10, 2026 at Gilbert Funeral Home in Christopher. Pastor Mark Minor will officiate. Burial will follow at Harrison Cemetery in Buckner. Visitation will be from 10:00 AM until time of service, Friday at the funeral home.

Memorial donations are suggested to Residential Hospice or St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital and will be accepted at the funeral home.

For more information please visit gilbertfuneralhomes.com or call (618) 724-4151.

Terry Lee “Fuzz” McGuire, 71, passed away peacefully on June 29, 2026, surrounded by his loving family.

Terry was a devoted husband, dad, father-in-law, and Pa. He is survived by his loving wife of 53 years, Debbie McGuire; his three children, Derrick (Mendy) McGuire and their children, Molly, Rebekah, and Thomas; Timothy (Laci) McGuire and their children, Warren and Westyn Terry; and Lindsay (Jennifer) McGuire and their children, Michael, Hunter, Taylor, Brookson Lee, and Greyson.

He is also survived by his siblings: brother Larry (Bertha) McGuire of Mulberry, Florida; brother Mike (Vicki) McGuire of Benton, Illinois; sister Jane Millikan of Benton, Illinois; and a very special sister-in-law, Terri Furlong (Mel). He also leaves behind his beloved fur baby, Darcy, as well as many extended family members and friends who will forever cherish his memory.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Jack and Cynthia McGuire; his father-in-law and mother-in-law, Rex and Carolyn Day; and his special grandmother, Essie Bailey.
Terry spent many years working in the coal mines at Old Ben 26 and later for the Illinois Central Railroad, where he was known for his strong work ethic, dedication, and dependability. He took great pride in providing for his family and was never afraid of hard work.

Outside of work, Terry found joy in life’s simple pleasures. He loved spending time at the ballpark watching softball, taking trips with his family, and creating memories with those he loved most. Family was the center of his life, and he always put their needs above his own.
Known affectionately as “Fuzz,” Terry had a generous soul, was always willing to lend a helping hand, and loved his family with all his heart.
Whether cheering from the stands, traveling with loved ones, or spending time with his grandchildren, Terry found happiness in being surrounded by family. His kindness, strength, selflessness, and unwavering devotion to those he loved will be deeply missed but forever remembered by all who knew him.
Public visitation services will be held on Friday, July 10, 2026, from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the Leffler Funeral Home in Benton, Illinois.
Funeral Services will immediately follow the visitation at the Leffler Funeral Home, with Rev. Mark Minor officiating. Burial will follow in the Masonic & Odd Fellows Cemetery in Benton, Illinois.

Floral tributes and cards are welcomed. Donations for the Terry McGuire Scholarship will be accepted at the funeral home.
To give online condolences to the family, or to share memories of Terry, visit www.lpfuneralhome.com.
The family would like to thank everyone for their prayers, support and acts of kindness during this difficult time.

Gene Giacomo, 89, of Mulkeytown, passed away on Thursday July 2, 2026 at his home.

He was born on March 3, 1937 in Pinckneyville, IL to George and Mary (Ritter) Giacomo. He married Judith (Mabry) Giacomo on January 17, 1959 and she preceded him in death.

He is survived by his daughter Lisa (Jerry) Young of Mulkeytown; grandchildren Rachel (Jeremy) Chaney, Jacob (Niki) Tindall, Lindsay (Dakota) Smith and Jeremy Young; great grandchildren Lucas, Wyatt, Khloe, Colton, Gracelynn, Paisley, Everley, Maryann and Charlotte and one sister Doris Valette of Mulkeytown and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, wife, sister and brother-in-law Celeste and Clarence Epplin, brother and sister-law Earl and Maxine Giacomo and brother-in-law Robert Valette.

Graveside services will be on Tuesday July 7, 2026 at 11:00 AM at the St Andrews Catholic Cemetery with Father Urban Osuji officiating. Burial will be at St Andrews Catholic Cemetery.

For more information go to our website www.gilbertfuneralhomes.com

Dean Michael “Mikey” Tedrow, aged 38, of West Paducah, Kentucky, passed away at 3:21 p.m. Thursday, June 25, 2026, due to injuries sustained in a motor vehicle accident.

Mikey was born on August 2, 1987, in Herrin, Illinois; the son of Ronald Tedrow and Jacqueline (Cutter) Lowery.

He worked in construction but previously worked for 20-plus years on tugboats and river barges. During his tenure on the river, he attained the nickname “Tug- Boat.”
He was of the Catholic faith.

Mikey loved riding motorcycles. He loved trucks and shooting guns. He also liked deer hunting and fishing. Most of all he enjoyed time spent with family.
His sister Danielle said, “he was unapologetically himself” and was full of personality.

Surviving is his loving mother Jacki Lowery of Mt. Vernon, Illinois, his father Ronald Tedrow of Indiana, his grandfather Daniel Cutter of Benton, Illinois, siblings: Stephen Wilkerson and wife Renee of Colorado Springs, Colorado, Danielle Wilkerson Russotto and husband Dominick of Carbondale, Illinois, Caitlyn Lowery of Mt. Vernon, Illinois; niece Ivy Rae Russotto; uncle Danny Cutter of Centralia, Illinois, cousins Kendra Fox and Kayla Cutter both of Benton, Illinois, many great aunts and uncles, cousins and extended family members and several special friends.
He was preceded in death by his maternal grandmother Patricia Cutter and paternal grandmother Susan Bain.

Public visitation will be from 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. Wednesday, July 1, 2026, at the Leffler Funeral Home, 401 East Main Street, Benton, Illinois.
The family prefers that Memorial Contributions, In Memory of Mikey, donations can be made to Ronald McDonald House, 26345 Network Place, Chicago, Illinois 60673-1263, and will be accepted at the services.
To give condolences online to the family or to share memories of Mikey, visit www.lpfuneralhome.com.