Dennis Lee Rush, 66, of Benton, passed away at 5:21 a.m., on Monday, July 28, 2025, at Deaconess Hospital in Marion, IL, surrounded by his family,

He was born on April 22, 1959, to George and Joan (Cato) Rush in Kennett, MO. Dennis worked as a Laborer in the construction industry. On June 18, 2001, he married Susan “Sue” Abrams and she preceded him in death on December 11, 2009.

Dennis was a loving dad and grandfather. He enjoyed traveling, camping and fishing.

Dennis is survived by his children, Dennis (Niki) Rush, Jr., George (Tiffany) Rush, Charles Rush, Brian Rush, Rosie (Garry) Piercy, Chuck (Glenda) Ferkel, Mandy (Joe) Smothers, James Schmutz and Josh (Ambar) Hazel and many grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Joan Rush, his wife, Susan “Sue” Rush, his brother, Elvie Rush and his sister, Diana Overton.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Pate Funeral Home and Crematory, 301 South Main Street, Benton, IL.

Per Dennis’ wishes, cremation will take place and a Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.

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

Richard B. “Dick” Neal, originally from Benton, IL and a long-time resident of Vail, Colorado, died on June 17, 2025, at his home, at the age of 92.

He was in increasingly frail health over the past 10 years but always sharp-witted with a prodigious memory. He was incredibly fortunate to be supported by a remarkable network of friends, caregivers, medical professionals, and Good Samaritans who helped him stay in his home and live the way he wanted.

Dick was born in Benton to Elmer and Mollie, the third of their four children, and part of a sprawling family of Neals, Brownings, Gunters, and Kings. He graduated a basketball star from Benton High School in 1950 and went to Beloit College on a scholarship. He was drafted into the Army in 1953 just as the war in Korea ended, serving for two years, then returned to Beloit and graduated in 1956. He began his career in road construction machinery with Rex Chainbelt of Milwaukee and spent months at a time in Europe as its war-torn countries built new highways across the continent.
In 1966, he married Carolyn Mack (née Evans) of Milwaukee, a mother of two children, and they had two more children together. He moved the family to the Chicago suburb of Barrington in 1977 to launch his own consulting and strategic advisory business; he and Carolyn divorced in 1987.

In 1989, he landed in Vail, throwing himself into community life and taking advantage of all the region had to offer. He owned and ran Peregrine Wines in Vail Village for about ten years, served on boards, and offered advice freely to anyone who would take it.

Dick is survived by his three sons and six grandchildren. Very special thanks go to the Episcopal Church of the Transfiguration; Vail Health and Shaw Cancer Center; Community Paramedics; Eagle County Healthy Aging; his tireless caregivers; and many, many dedicated friends.

A service in Vail to commemorate Dick’s life and thank all who helped him over the years was held on July 7. In Benton, friends and family are invited to gather at 1 PM on Saturday, August 9, at Morton and Johnston Funeral Home, prior to interment at Masonic and Odd Fellows Cemetery.

For more information or to send online condolences please visit www.mortonjohnstonfuneralhome.com

David Alan Graham, 58 of St. Augustine, Florida, passed away unexpectedly while vacationing in The Philippines on June 26, 2025.

David was born June 3, 1967 in St. Louis, MO, a son of Norman and Shirley (Sanders) Graham. He was raised in Ewing, Illinois and graduated from Ewing-Northern Grade School and Benton High School. On July 20, 1991, he married Becky Sink at Frisco Baptist Church in Ewing.

He began his career at Long Airdox with his dad, Bill Feig, and then Kirby Risk Electrical Supply in Mt. Vernon. He loved the outdoors, especially fishing and camping at Rend Lake. That passion led him to Florida as after many visits all over the state, he “put his toes in the St. Augustine sand” and moved his family there in 2005.
In Florida, he worked for many years with Englewood Electric in Jacksonville specializing in Rockwell Automation and loved to help his customers who often became his good friends. He also was a Realtor and worked with his mother and brother-in-law for several years. Dave had a gift for making people feel welcome and at ease, often inviting friends, family, and customers alike offshore on his boat to chase Wahoo or to the Keys for lobster season. He was a proud Papa and enjoyed watching his boys play baseball.

David often said, “If we aren’t having fun, why are we doing it!” He lived life to its fullest and his passion for people and travel was obvious to all that knew him. His wit and wisdom will be greatly missed.

He is survived by his devoted wife of 34 years, Becky, a son, Joshua James Graham and wife Kayla; a daughter Janel Ryan Graham and his mother Shirley Plunk and husband Bill, three grandsons, Liam, Conrad, and Ronan Graham, all of St. Augustine, FL.
Sisters, Tammy Williams of Herrin, IL, Tina Gray of Marion, IL, Kathryn Lawrence and husband John of St. Augustine, Tina Greenwood of Pompano Beach, FL, Vickie Nance and husband Roger of Edwardsville, IL. His mother-in-law Betty Sink, Ina, IL, and brothers in-law and sisters-in-law, Leann Roberts and husband Riley of Ewing, IL, and Mark Sink and wife Tammy of Belleville, IL, and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his biological father Norman Graham, father Billy Feig, and father-in-law Rodney Sink.
David’s wishes were to be cremated. A celebration of life will be held at St. Augustine Yacht Club, 442 Ocean Vista Ave, St Augustine, Florida 32080, Sunday August 10, 2025, 1pm-4pm.

In lieu of flowers, a donation can be made in David Graham’s name to the nonprofit agency, Council on Aging, 180 Marine St., St. Augustine, FL 32084 – https://coasjc.org/donate/

The Leffler Funeral Home of Benton is assisting the family with the local obituary.
To give online condolences to the family or to share memories of David, go to www.lpfuneralhome.com.

On July 23, 2025, Donald Dee Malcolm, of Benton, passed away at home, surrounded by his family at the age of 88-years-old.

Don the son of the late Curtis and Ione Malcolm, was born on September 8, 1936, in Marion, IL. After graduating from Marion High School, he served in the United States Navy for four-years. He then graduated from SIU with a degree as a Electrical Engineer. After marrying his wife, Vita Loyd on January 23, 1962, they moved toSt. Louis, MO, to start a family and his career at McDonnell Douglas, in the Aerospace Division.

He later moved back to Southern Illinois and finished his career out in the mining industry, working for Inland Steel, Kerr Megee and American Coal companies.

Don was a lifelong member of North Benton Baptist Church and found comfort in his faith. He enjoyed hunting and fishing in his younger years and vacationing with family throughout the years and into retirement.

He leaves behind his wife of 63 years, Vita Mae (Loyd) Malcolm of Benton, IL; his children, Mike (Lana) Malcolm of Milton, FL, Dottie (Malcolm) (Ron) Darr of Benton, IL, Robert (Judy LeBar) Malcolm of Stewartsville, NJ and Debbie (Malcolm) (Andy) Williams of Benton, IL; 14 grandchildren, Brandi (Malcolm) (Tyler) Dagg of Cisne, IL, Blaine (Joanna) Malcolm of West Frankfort, IL, Linzie (Malcolm) (Miles) Baltzell of Crestview, FL, Leighton Malcolm of Milton, FL, Megan (Darr) (Tyler) Taber of Marion, IL, Dailyn Darr of West Frankfort, IL, Logan (Madison) Darr of Benton, IL, Madyson Darr (Triston Summers) of Marion, IL, Zoe (Bouseman) (Jeremy) Dorsey of Atlanta, GA, Audra (Malcolm) (Steve) Meza of High Bridge, NJ, Kevin Malcolm of Pittsburgh, PA, Dillon Malcolm of Pittsburgh, PA, Brittany Williams of Benton, IL, Gunner Williams of Benton, IL and Dallas Williams of O’Fallon, MO; eight great-grandchildren, Kayden Dagg, Zach Dagg, Lily Dagg, Drew Dagg, Mason Tabor, Levi Tabor, Evie Darr, Kinsley Dorsey; and Emersyn Dorsey; his son-in-law, Tom Bouseman and brother-in-law Jerry Loyd and family.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Curtis Malcom and Ione (Barth) Malcolm, his daughter, Pamela Ione (Malcolm) Bouseman, his granddaughter, Breanna Williams, two sisters, Paulette Malcolm and Elaine (Malcolm) Dreyer, his brother-in-law, Charles Dreyer, two brothers in infancy; his father and mother-in-law, Sherman and Dorothy Loyd, and his sister-in-law, Sondra Loyd.

Don will always be remembered for his kind hearted spirit, family loving adventures, his hard work, ethics and love for God. We will always carry your memory in our hearts.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Pate Funeral Home and Crematory, 301 South Main Street, Benton, IL.

In accordance with Don’s wishes, cremation will take place.

A Celebration of Life will be set at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, donations are requested for North Benton Ministry House for clothing and shoes for school age children.

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

George Babiak, 92, of Collinsville, IL, passed away peacefully at his home on Saturday, July 12, 2025, surrounded by his loving family.

Born on November 29, 1932, in Buckner, IL, George was the beloved son of the late John and Mary (née Smarz) Babiak. He was preceded in death by two brothers, John and Frank Babiak.

George proudly served his country in the United States Army and went on to earn his bachelor’s degree from Southern Illinois University Edwardsville. He built a long and successful career as a chemist with United Technologies, a foam rubber manufacturing company.

Outside of his professional life, George had a deep appreciation for the outdoors. He found joy in hunting, fishing, gardening, mushroom hunting, and searching for arrowheads.

He is survived by his three children: George (Shelly) Babiak of CA, Jeffrey Babiak of Collinsville, IL, and Connie (Daniel) Harris of Collinsville, IL; seven grandchildren; ten great-grandchildren; two sisters, Dorothy Doelling of Buckner, IL, and Jo Ann Frazier of IN; and his first wife, Harriet Spicer of Collinsville, IL.

In accordance with George’s wishes, he will be cremated and a Graveside service will be held on Tuesday July 29, 2025 at 1:00 PM at the Russian Orthodox Cemetery in Buckner.

Sesser- Mary Victoria Eubanks, 83, of Sesser, passed away at 8:41 PM, Thursday, July 17, 2025 at Fairview Nursing and Rehabilitation in DuQuoin.

Mary was born on February 23, 1942 in McLeansboro, IL to Bill and Mary Meadows. She married Olen Ward Eubanks and he survives of Sesser.

She lived a simple life; caring for her family and enjoying daily four mile walks around her neighborhood regardless of the weather. She was a Dallas Cowboys fan, loved all her animals and enjoyed listening to rock music.

She is survived by her beloved husband Olen Eubanks of Sesser; son- Monty Keith Pearce and wife Janet of Benton and daughter- Melody LeVault and husband Todd of Sesser; four grandchildren- Keith and Eliah Pearce and Matthew LeVault and wife Jesse and Katerina LeVault and fiancée Jeremy McKinney; one great grandchild- Braxton McKinney; 3 brothers- Bob, Jack and David Meadows all of Florida as well as several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents; son- Michael Pearce; brother- William Meadows and sister- Cherie Lueker.

A private memorial service will be held at a later date at Mitchell Cemetery. Memorial arrangements were entrusted to Brayfield-Gilbert Funeral Home in Sesser. Memorial donations are suggested to the Humane Society and may be mailed to the funeral home.

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

Dorothy Ann Morgan, 77, of Christopher, Illinois, passed away peacefully at 2:25 AM on Thursday, July 17, 2025, at SIH Herrin Hospital.

She was born on February 2, 1948, in St. Louis, Missouri, to Everette and Josephine (Kristek) Brock. Dorothy’s life was defined by her devotion to family. A loving wife, dedicated mother, and wonderful “Mimi” to her grandchildren, family was always her highest priority. In St. Louis, she met James “Jim” Morgan, and together they shared a blessed marriage of 57 years. Dorothy was a faithful member of the Catholic church. She found immense joy and fulfillment with her husband, Jim, and their two sons, James and David. Dorothy absolutely adored her four grandchildren, Parker, Ethan, Tyler, and Katia, cherishing every moment spent with them. Dorothy began her career working for the phone company in St. Louis, and after marrying Jim, they settled in Southern Illinois.

She earned her beautician’s license, worked initially at a salon in DuQuoin, and eventually opened a shop at her home in Christopher. With her home business she was able to dedicate more time to raising her boys. Later, Dorothy returned to study at Rend Lake College, where she earned her CNA (Certified Nurse’s Assistant) certification and subsequently graduated with her MLT (Medical Lab Technology) degree. Her innate compassion led her to a fulfilling career in healthcare, where she found purpose in helping others. She worked more than 20 years between three different hospitals: Crossroads in Mt. Vernon, the Marion VA Hospital, and Sparta Community Hospital.

In 2014, Dorothy and Jim retired on the same day, embarking on a new chapter filled with travel and family time. They made numerous extended trips to California to help grandparent their grandsons, Ethan and Parker, who affectionately have always thought “Mimi” was the very best. Dorothy was a fantastic cook known for delicious pies, a skilled crafter, and found great joy in sewing clothes for her family and flower gardening. She enjoyed relaxing outside in the backyard with others and her two whimsical cats. Her artistic flair shone brightly in her meticulously decorated yard, which was a true showplace in the neighborhood, especially during the holidays.

Dorothy is survived by her husband Jim, her two sons, James Patrick (nee Tonya) Morgan of Joliet and David Lee (nee Nattharika) Morgan of Pleasanton, CA; four grandchildren, Tyler and Katia Morgan of Joliet and Parker and Ethan Morgan of Pleasanton, CA; two sisters, Nancy Keller of Tamaroa and Judy Holman of DuPo; two brothers, James Brock of Webster Groves, MO and Robert Brock of Cedar Hill, MO; sister-in-law, Debbie Brock of Texas; as well as many nieces and nephews with growing families. She is preceded in death by her parents; one brother, Raymond Brock; two sisters-in-law, Cheryl Brock and Sue Hayes; and two brothers-in-law Leonard Holman and Terry Keller.

In accordance with Dorothy’s wishes, she will be cremated, and a graveside service and celebration of life will be held at a later date. Gilbert Funeral Home of Christopher is assisting the family with the arrangements. Dorothy will be deeply missed by all who knew her. Her vibrant spirit, unwavering love for her family, and the countless cherished memories she created will ensure her legacy lives on.
For more information go to our website www.gilbertfuneralhomes.com

Sharon K. Cavins, 71, of Christopher, IL, passed away Tuesday evening, July 15, 2025 at her home.

Sharon was born on February 5, 1954 in Kankakee, Illinois to Theodore and Elsie (Wilson) Robey.

She married Dennis Cavins on September 21, 1984 in Aurora, Illinois. He survives of Christopher. Sharon was a Christian and loved spending time with her family; especially her grandchildren. She also enjoyed detailing cars and going on side by side rides with her beloved husband. She liked listening to old country music and all things Betty Boop and she will be dearly missed by her family and friends.

She is survived by her husband- Dennis Cavins of Christopher; daughters- Lisa Clark of Marion and Lacey (Brandon) Service of Christopher; 6 grandchildren- Chad and Cody Armes and Selena Donovan, Joshua Donovan, Destiny Service and Dylan Service; sister- Patsy (Dennis) Corn of Benton and brother- LeRoy Robey of Royalton. Also surviving are several nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents, sister- Barbara Albrights and brother- Melvin.

It was her wish to be cremated and private memorial services will be held Saturday, July 19, 2025 from 6:00 PM until 8:00 PM at the Knights of Columbus Hall, in Christopher, IL where she enjoyed spending time. Memorial arrangements were entrusted to Gilbert Funeral Home in Christopher. Memorial donations are suggested to the family and may be mailed to Gilbert Funeral Home/ 209 north Emma Street/ Christopher, IL 62822.
For more information go to our website www.gilbertfuneralhomes.com

Dr. Donna Sebastian Spencer of Benton, IL, died on July 14th, 2025, after a prolonged illness caused by cancer.

She was born on February 28th,1957 in Sharon, PA; the daughter of Donald Sebastian and Carolynn (Nickle) Sebastian. She married Dr. David Keith Spencer on June 2, 1984.

She graduated magna cum laude with her Bachelor of Science from the University of Notre Dame and received her Doctorate of Optometry at Indiana University before working as an optometrist in Benton and McLeansboro.

Her greatest joy was using her talents to serve her church, St Joseph’s Catholic Church of Benton. She considered cantoring at mass with her husband, David, a great privilege. She spent many years teaching high school youth formation class followed by teaching the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA) class for the past 10 years. She also enjoyed traveling and gardening but loved visiting her grandchildren more than anything.

She is survived by her husband, Dr. David Spencer; 3 children: Dr. Katie Krause (Dr. Kenny), Dr. Jenna McGoldrick (Zach) and Dr. Michael Spencer (Kaci); 10 grandchildren (Camille, Colin, Charlie and Cecilia Krause; Leo, Finn and Molly McGoldrick; and Luka, Noah and Brady Spencer); 2 sisters, Laurie Koval (Bob) and Linda Collins (Bob); 3 brothers-in-law, Dennis (Kim), Craig (Suzanne) and Duane (Kelly) Spencer; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Donna was preceded in death by her father and mother, Donald, and Carolynn “Lynn” Sebastian; her father-in-law, Russell Spencer; her brother, Don Sebastian; and her infant son.

Visitation services will be held from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Friday, July 18, 2025, and from 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. Saturday, July 19, 2025, at the St. Joseph Catholic Church of Benton.

Mass of the Christian Burial will be held at 10:00 a.m. Saturday, July 19, 2025, at the St. Joseph Catholic Church of Benton, with Father Urban Osuji officiating. Burial will follow in the Masonic and Odd Fellows Cemetery of Benton.

Services are under the direction of the Leffler Funeral Home of Benton.

Memorial contributions may be made either to the St. Joseph Catholic Church or to St. Anne Cradle of Hope and will be accepted at the services.

To give online condolences to the family, or to share memories of Dr. Donna Spencer, visit www.lpfuneralhome.com.

Arnold Moore, 87, of Benton, IL passed away at his home on Wednesday, July 9, 2025.

He was born in West Frankfort, IL on October 1, 1937 the son of Valley Paul & Mary Ellen (Prior) Moore.

He married Daisy (Holman) on November 12, 1953. He loved Jesus and if you talked to him for just a few minutes he would tell you all about Jesus. He could fix and do almost anything. He made marbles and furniture, he invented the Daisy board strecher and the train whistle. He built multiple homes that he and his family lived in. He loved his family and loved to sing. Arnold & Daisy lived in Kankakee for 20 years and then moved back to work in the coal mines as a welder.

Mr. Moore is survived by his:
Wife: Daisy Moore of Benton
3 Children:
Alan Moore & wife Donna of Benton
Christina Adams of Scheller, IL
Teresa Bowman & husband Steve of Bonnie, IL
4 Grandchildren:
Emily Moore
Adam Moore & wife Jessica
Mariah Stubblefield & husband Kevin
Josh Bowman
Great-Grandchildren: Olivia, Austin, Elena, Cylas, Maddie & Josie

Mr. Moore was preceded in death by his parents, an infant sister-Dorothy, brother-Lowell, grandson-Christopher Adams and son-in-law-Nelson Adams.
Funeral services will be held at 2:00 P.M. on Saturday, July 12, 2025 at the Morton & Johnston Funeral Home in Benton with Pastor Harol Whitlock officiating. Burial will be in the Masonic & Odd Fellows Cemetery in Benton. Visitation will be from 10:00 A.M. to 2:00 P.M. on Saturday at the funeral home.
For more information or to send online condolences please visit www.mortonjohnstonfuneralhome.com