Thomas Monti, 86, of Coello, passed away peacefully on Friday, June 27, 2025, at Deaconess Hospital in Marion, IL, surrounded by the love and presence of his family.

He was born on March 29, 1939, in Tarrytown, NY, to Baptisto Constantino and Josephine (Gaetano) Monti. Tom lived a life grounded in faith, love, and service. He married Brenda (Evilsizer) Monti on June 22, 1968, and together they recently celebrated 57 years of marriage. Brenda survives him. Tom is also survived by his three sons: Tom (Mindy) Monti of League City, TX; Mike (Emily) Monti of Herrin; and Daniel Monti of Coello. He also leaves behind his step-granddaughter Olivia and his faithful dog Max. He was preceded in death by his parents and his unborn grandchild.

Tom was a proud member of the UMWA and dedicated 33 years of service to Inland Steel Mine in Sesser. He was also a proud Marine, and carried that sense of honor and duty with him throughout his life. Tom was a car enthusiast and a lifelong New York Yankees fan. Tom’s life was marked by his unwavering devotion to God and his deep commitment to his family. A devout Catholic, he lived his faith daily, generously serving his community through the Christopher Knights of Columbus and supporting his parish with humility and heart. Tom was the rock of his family, a devoted husband, a steady and supportive father, and a man of strength and wisdom. His presence brought comfort, guidance, and love. Though his absence leaves an immeasurable void, his legacy of faith, integrity, and unconditional love will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.

Funeral services will be held on Thursday, July 3, 2025, at 1:00 PM at Gilbert Funeral Home in Christopher. Visitation will take place that same day from 11:00 AM until the time of the service. Entombment will follow at St. Andrew Catholic Cemetery in Christopher.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to St. Andrew Catholic Cemetery. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home. Until we meet again, Tom, we love you with all our heart and soul.

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

Dorothy Jean Baxter, 81, of Sesser, passed away on Saturday June 28, 2025 at her home.

She was born on September 10, 1943 in Christopher to Glenn and Dorothy (Gower) Wilmore. She married Ray Baxter and he survives of Sesser.

She is also survived by her children, Lisa (Mike) Gulley of Valier and Larry Tucker of Christopher; six grandchildren; fifteen great grandchildren; two great great grandchildren and one brother Glenn Everett Wilmore of Herrin.

She was preceded in death by her parents, daughter-in-law Tina Tucker and one sister.

Funeral services will be on Wednesday July 2, 2025 at 1:00 PM at the Brayfield-Gilbert Funeral Home in Sesser with Brother Carlo Dial officiating. Visitation will be on Wednesday from 11:00 AM until the time of the service at 1:00 PM at the funeral home.

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

Mrs. Joice Ann Haase, age 78, of Benton, IL; passed away at 7:40 p.m. Tuesday, June 24, 2025, at Stonebridge Nursing and Rehab of Benton.

Joice was born on November 26, 1946, in Altavista, Virginia; the daughter of George Burnette and Dessie (McCrickard) Burnette. She married Jerry Haase, and he preceded her in death on July 9, 2000.

She was a member of St. John the Baptist Catholic Church of West Frankfort, Illinois.

She was a former Certified Nurses Aid. She also used to work inserting sale flyers in the Daily American Newspaper of West Frankfort. She also enjoyed being a renowned doll maker.
Joice enjoyed sewing and watching her favorite television programs, including Survivor, Big Brother, and 90 Day Fiancée. She also liked to play games on her tablet, and she liked researching medicine and politics on the internet. But most of all she loved spending time with family.

Surviving are her three children: Catina Powell and husband Theo of Paducah, Kentucky, Cassandra Carney of Marion, Illinois, Michael Karch and wife Jenny of Raeford, North Carolina; a granddaughter Tedrah “Penelope” Wece of Paducah, Kentucky; a brother Frank Burnette and wife Elaine of Buckeye, Arizona; and several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, two sisters and two brothers.

Funeral Services will be held at 1:00 p.m. Sunday, June 29, 2025, at the Leffler Funeral Home of Benton, with Sister Laura Reynolds officiating. Burial will follow in the Creal Springs Cemetery. Visitation will be held from 12:00 noon to 1:00 p.m. Sunday at the Leffler Funeral Home of Benton.
Memorial contributions be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital and will be accepted at the funeral home.
To give condolences online to the family, or to share memories of Joice, visit www.lpfuneralhome.com.

Jennifer Joy Gooden, age 53, of Thompsonville, passed away Friday, June 20, 2025, at her home.

Jennifer was born on October 13, 1971, in Mt. Vernon, Illinois; the daughter of Charles Raymond Bocock and Suellen Deborah (Kresin) Bocock. She married Robert Eugene Gooden on December 7, 2008, and he survives.

She and her husband owned and operated the Groove Shop in Benton.

Jennifer enjoyed crafts, sewing, quilting, custom embroidering, and listening to music.

Surviving is her loving husband Robert Eugene Gooden of Thompsonville, IL; a sister Jodi Ooms and husband Tim of Florida; a niece Kelsi Alwood; nephews Joshua Wright, Dakota Alwood, Levi Alwood, Brantley Wright and Brody Wright; step-sisters: Judy, Paula and Betty Sue; brothers-in-law: Larry Gooden, Logan Gooden and Joe Hughes; Robert’s half-brother Bobby; Robert’s half-sisters Cheryl and Myra; Robert’s step-father Willard Hughes of Desoto, IL; several cousins; and Robert and Jennifer’s best friend Mike Lawler of Bluford, IL.

She was preceded in death by her father Charles Bocock, and her mother Suellen Miller.

Her wishes are to be cremated.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held at a future date.

The Leffler Funeral Home of Benton is in charge of the arrangements.

A go fund me account has been set up to assist with expenses at https://gofund.me/9e5c2bd8

To leave online condolences to the family, or to share memories of Jennifer, visit www.lpfuneralhome.com.

Velda “Louise” Watkins, 84, passed away peacefully at her home on June 26, 2025, surrounded by her loving family. Born on November 30, 1940, Louise lived a full and spirited life devoted to the people that she cherished most.

She was preceded in death by her infant daughter, JoAnn; her siblings, Ray Dean Miner, David Miner, Richard Miner, and Floyd Miner; her parents, Gertrude and Joseph Leon Miner; and her husbands, Johnny Hess, Arley Taylor, and Bob Watkins.

Louise is survived by her devoted companion of many years, Anthony Donazio; her daughter, Janice Kniffen, and son-in-law, Reverend Michael Kniffen; and siblings Jeanie Wells, Mary Simshauser, Charles Miner, Joe Miner, and Donnie Miner. She also leaves behind her beloved granddaughters: Jennifer Whitaker (Bryan), JoAnn Atkins, Juliec Vauple (Keith), and Jackie Gans (Steve). Her legacy continues through her great-grandchildren-Jessica Potts, Seth Headlee, Hunter Sinclare, Andrew Burnett, Daniel Burnett, Samuel King, Christian Goldsberry, Isabella Brown, and Elijah Gans-and her great-great-grandchildren: Elizabeth Burnett, Vivienne Burnett, Marcus Burnett, Emaleigh Simmons, Heavenlee Sinclair, and Joshua Sinclair. She was also blessed with a large extended family of nieces, nephews, and generations of great- and great-great-nieces and nephews, all of whom she held close to her heart.

Louise had a tireless spirit and a heart that made space for everyone. She was known for her incredible work ethic, her unmatched cooking skills, and her warm hospitality qualities she brought to every restaurant she worked in throughout her life. A natural storyteller, Louise was always ready with a memory, a laugh, or lesson.

She will be remembered for the deep love she had for her family, her generosity, and the warmth she spread wherever she went.
Graveside services will be held at 3:00 P.M. on Sunday, June 29th at the Hams Grove Cemetery in Belle Rive. Those attending the service are requested to meet at the cemetery.
For more information or to send online condolences please visit www.johnstonfuneralhome.com

Sherry Lee Howe, 77, of Thompsonville Illinois passed away at her home on June 21, 2025.

She was born on July 6, 1947, to Jack and Pauline (Tinker) Griffin in Chicago, IL. On July 10, 1965, she married Robert James Howe and after 54 years of marriage he preceded her in death on February 19, 2020.

Sherry resided in Chicago until moving to the Chicago suburbs of Oak Lawn in 1968 and then Tinley Park in 1975, where she raised 3 children. Sherry worked 12 years for the US Postal Service 1982-1994. In 1994 Sherry, husband and two daughters moved to Northern Wisconsin where they operated an eight-cabin resort. In 2003, Sherry, husband and surviving daughter, relocated to Thompsonville Illinois.

Shortly after arriving in Southern Illinois, Sherry began her career as an associate at the Benton Walmart. She used her artistic skills in the bakery department to create thousands of beautiful cakes for the community. She was fondly known as “Sherry Berry” by her Walmart family and she retired in 2023.

Sherry was a loving mother and grandmother who cherished spending time with family and friends. Additionally, she enjoyed attending services at the Thompsonville First Baptist Church, participating in church-sponsored activities and making new friends. She loved spending time outdoors watching the wildlife. Sherry’s hobbies included: drawing and painting that she won awards for, crafts, puzzles, and playing bingo.

Sherry is survived by her children, Brett (Yolanda) Howe and Laura (Rob) Mercer; three grandchildren Mandy, Rob and Michael; her brother, Wayne Griffin and his family.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Jack and Pauline Griffin, her husband, Robert James Howe and her daughter, Tricia Howe.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Pate Funeral Home, 301 South Main Street, Benton, IL.
Per Sherry’s wishes, cremation will take place.

A memorial service will be held at a time and location to be announced.

Memorial donations may be made to Debra.org and will be accepted at the memorial or mailed directly to D.E.B.R.A at 1560 Central Ave, Suite 433, St Petersburg, Florida 33705 or at www.Debra.org

Online condolences can be given at www.patefh.com.

LaDonna Wertz Bryce, 86, of Herrin, passed away at 11:39 p.m., on Tuesday, June 24, 2025, at her home in Herrin, IL, surrounded by her family.

She was born on September 19, 1938, to Sterling and Eva (Arnold) Poole in West Frankfort, IL. LaDonna worked as a Franklin Williamson Human Services for State of Illinois. She married her first husband, James R. Wertz, and he preceded her in death, then she married Raymond Bryce, and he preceded her in death.

She was a member of Heartland Christian Church in Marion, IL and she was also a member of the Marion VFW Ladies Auxiliary.

LaDonna was a loving mother, grandmother and great-grandmother and enjoyed spending time with her family. In her spare time she loved sewing, quilting, cooking, baking, being a Hospice volunteer and reading.

LaDonna is survived by her loving children, James B. (Jill) Wertz, of Orient, IL, Larrie (Sherry) Wertz of DuQuoin, IL and Billie (Elva) Arview of Herrin, IL; eight grandchildren, Brittani (Matt) Warner, Jennifer (Tim) Mateycak, Tiffani (Josh Boswell) Ihrig, Matthew (Kenzie) Pflug, Madison (Austin) Schafer, Evan (Hannah) Arview, Emery Arview, Cori Arview; 12 great-grandchildren, Jaxon, Renny, Drasyn, Dexter, River, Freya, Remington, Lincoln, Winona, Gunner, Emilia and Elliston.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Sterling and Eva Poole, her husbands, James R. Wertz and Raymond Bryce, her brothers, Richard Poole, Robert Poole, Sterling Poole, Ronnie Poole and James Poole, her sisters, Faye Buiten Haus, Janet Hubbard and Sharon Williams and her grandson, Jeffery Conner.

Services have been entrusted to Pate Funeral Home, 301 South Main Street, Benton, IL.

Visitation will be held on Monday, June 30, 2025, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Pate Funeral Home, Benton, IL.

Funeral services will be held on Tuesday, July 1, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. at the Heartland Christian Church, 900 East Boyton Street in Marion, IL, with Pastor Greg Gibbs, officiating.

Following the funeral service, burial will take place in the Masonic and Odd Fellows Cemetery, Benton, IL., with Brother Glen Sanders, officiating.

Memorials may be made to the Marion VFW Post 1301 or Heartland Christian Church in Marion, IL and will be accepted at the funeral home.

Online condolences can be given at www.patefh.com.

Amanda C. Casey, 44, of Benton, passed away at 12:10 p.m., on Friday, June 13, 2025, at the Deaconess Gateway Hospital in Evansville, IN, surrounded by her family.
She was born on October 20, 1980, to Randy Casey and Judith (Mocaby) Camden in Marion, IL. Amanda worked as a cook for Burtons Cafe in Whittington, IL.

Amanda was a loving mother, daughter, sister and aunt and loved spending time with her family. She had a soft spot in her heart, taking in and caring for animals. She enjoyed dancing, fishing, painting and grilling. She also loved watching the St. Louis Cardinal Baseball games on television.

Amanda is survived by her loving son, Jakeb “Nate” Anders of Benton, IL; her father, Randy Casey; her sister, Apryl Sawyer and husband Chad; two brothers, Randy Casey, Jr. and Shane Casey; sister-in-law, Melissa Casey and step-sister, Talia Tedrow; six nieces, Kiara Coleman and husband, Chris, Alyssa Sawyer, Marissa Sawyer, Gabrielle Bunselmeyer and husband Matthew, Aubrionna Killip and husband Michael and Ebriessa Casey and fiancé Keegan; six nieces and nephews, Shaylyn Casey, Hayden Casey, Cason Casey, Jaden Tedrow, Taylor Tedrow and Bria Tedrow; a great-nephew, Breck Easley and two great-niece, Palmer Bunselmeyer and Serenity Coleman.

She was preceded in death by mother, Judith Lynette Camden.

Services have been entrusted to Pate Funeral Home, 301 South Main Street, Benton, IL.

Visitation will be held on Saturday, June 28, 2025, from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at Pate Funeral Home, Benton, IL.

Funeral services will be held n Saturday, June 28, 2025, at 12:00 p.m. at the Pate Funeral Home, Benton, IL, with Pastor Riley Brannan, officiating.

Per Amanda’s wishes cremation will take place.

Online condolences can be given at www.patefh.com.

Dakota was a radiant soul who brought joy and optimism to everyone he met. He was born in Mt. Vernon, Illinois on December 3, 1992, and passed away on June 20, 2025, at home.

He was a beloved brother, son, uncle, friend, and an aspiring pharmacist whose vibrant spirit left an indelible mark on the world around him. Dakota grew up with an infectious enthusiasm for life. His boundless positivity could light up any room, and his laughter was a melody that uplifted those around him.

Dakota was attending SIUE School of Pharmacy, working toward his Doctorate in Pharmacy and master’s in public health. As a student in pharmacy school, he was driven by a passion to help others, dedicating himself to his studies with a determination to make a difference in the lives of his future patients. His curiosity, intelligence, and commitment to his craft inspired his peers and professors alike. He was entering his third year of pharmacy school and received many awards and scholarships. He was consistently on the Dean’s List and was chosen by SIUE School of Pharmacy to be a tutor. Dakota was also employed by Walgreen’s Pharmacy in Marion as a Student Pharmacist, working part-time while he attended school. Dakota was planning his future with the love of his life, Bettye Starkey.

To his friends, Dakota was more than just a companion—he was a confidante, a cheerleader, and the life of every gathering. Whether he was cracking jokes, hanging out with friends, or simply lending a listening ear, he had a rare gift for making everyone feel valued and loved. His fun-loving nature turned ordinary moments into cherished memories, from family gatherings to late-night conversations filled with laughter. Dakota loved spending time with family and friends, listening to music, playing video games, and playing guitar. His dislikes included mayonnaise, ranch dressing, carrots, and any green vegetable. Dakota leaves behind a legacy of kindness, humor, and unwavering optimism.

He is survived by his parents Gary and Karen Tucker of Benton, two brothers, Wesley Tucker and Skyler Tucker (Jamie), nieces Shauna and Claire Tucker, nephews Keagen, Kollin and Jesse Tucker, as well as numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, life-partner Bettye Starkey, and a wide circle of friends who will forever carry his spirit in their hearts. He will be greatly missed by many.

Dakota’s wishes are to be cremated with a private family celebration of life at a future date.

The Leffler Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements.

To give online condolences to the family, or to share memories of Dakota, go to www.lpfuneralhome.com

Alma Gearldine “Gerry” Bridewell, 85, of Springfield, IL, formerly of Thompsonville, IL, passed away peacefully Friday, June 20, 2025, with her loving family by her side at The Villas Senior Living in Sherman, IL.

Funeral services will be held at the Leffler Funeral Home, 401 East Main St., Benton, Illinois, on Monday, June 30, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. with Brother Larry Miller officiating. Visitation will be from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. at the Leffler Funeral Home. Burial will follow at the Masonic & Odd Fellows Cemetery of Benton, IL.
Gerry was born on January 28, 1940, in Thompsonville, IL, daughter of Ruth (Sweet) and Deck Eubanks. She was united in marriage to Bob Bridewell on May 3, 1957. He preceded her in death on October 18, 2022.

Gerry attended Thompsonville High School. She then worked at the Joan Clair factory as a seamstress. This began a lifelong talent for sewing not only clothes for herself and family, but beautiful, original quilts that she designed and gave away as gifts.

Working together, Gerry and her husband, Bob, operated Bridewell’s Body Shop and Auto Sales. She kept the books and did clerical duties but also jumped in and worked side by side in the shop. She taped off cars to be painted, mixed car paint and washed and detailed cars when they were ready. She was equally adept at cooking and provided delicious meals to all working in the garage. She was famous for her chicken and dumplings, ham and beans, served with all the fixings.

Gerry enjoyed being outdoors, she preferred being outside to in, whether riding motorcycles – at one point owning one – or just being outdoors, enjoying nature and caring for her animals. She had many cats, dogs, cows, and sheep, and loved her treasured horse, Fancy, and beloved dog Gracie. Her biggest joy was becoming a “granny,” she loved spending time and spoiling her only granddaughter. Which later blessed her with three great grandchildren who called her “Gan Gan.”

Before moving to Springfield to live near family, Gerry worked at Dyel’s grocery store in Benton. She worked in the deli and as a checker. She liked visiting with her customers and really enjoyed her work. She was a member of the UFCW union. In earlier years, Gerry was a member of Carter’s Temple Congregational Christian Church in Thompsonville, IL.

In addition to her dear husband Bob of 65 years, she was preceded in death by her parents, Deck and Ruth Eubanks, siblings Phyllis Canada, Billy Don Eubanks, Claudia Wilson, and Charles Eubanks.

Gerry will be lovingly remembered as a wonderful mother, grandmother, and great grandmother. She freely shared her love and beautiful spirit with all she knew.
Those left to cherish her memory include her daughter, Jaye Bridewell Miller, a granddaughter, Shannon (Nick) Bellini and three great grandchildren, Pvt. Seiger Dunston, Gianna Jaye and Bianca Rose Bellini and nephews, a niece, and cousins. A special friend, Janet Higginson, Benton, and her friend and roommate at the Villas, Joan Huntley.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to the Villas Senior Care Community and Gentiva Hospice Care.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital and may be accepted at the funeral home.
To leave online condolences to the family, or to share memories of Gerry, go to www.lpfuneralhome.com.

She beautifully reflects God’s creativity, she nurtures those around her, to reason and reflect, to confidently declare the goodness of God and the wonders of his word (from Genesis 1)