Karen Ann Eovaldi, 82, of Marion, formerly of Sesser passed away on August 1, 2026, at Deaconess Illinois Medical Center in Marion, IL.

She was born on April 10, 1944, in Cleveland, Ohio, to Richard and Norma Elizabeth (Meyers) Wiese. She married George “Rusty” Robert Eovaldi on March 28, 1970, and he preceded her in death on December 22, 2019.

“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.” 2 Timothy 4:7 Karen built a life centered on faith, service, and a passion for teaching. A devoted Christian, she believed deeply in the power of prayer and found joy in lifting her voice in song, sharing her love of music with those around her. For 39 years, she dedicated herself to teaching, inspiring generations of students with her patience, wisdom, and caring heart. Her legacy of faith, kindness, and learning will continue to live on in the countless lives she touched.

She is survived by her children Robert (Bendra) Eovaldi of Marion and Georgina (James) Krajeski of West Frankfort; Step-daughter Deborah (Vince) Zaranti of The Villages, FL; grandchildren Belinda (Joseph) Sons, Rebecca Eovaldi, Grace Veschusio, Cassidy Veschusio, and Liam Veschusio; great grandchildren Marie Sons, David Sons, and Josh Sons. She was preceded in death by her parents and her husband. A private Memorial Service will be held at a later date.

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

Mr. Richard Lee Brayfield, known to many simply as Richard, age 92, passed from this life on July 26, 2026, in Terre Haute, Indiana, after a period of declining health, and he now rests in the
peace of his Lord.

Born on April 28, 1934, in Sesser, Illinois, he lived a life marked by faithfulservice, steadfast devotion, and a warm spirit that touched all who knew him.
Richard was the beloved son of Winsor and Fay (Hackney) Brayfield, both deceased, and he was raised in the simple virtues of hard work, honesty, and perseverance. He graduated from Sesser High School in Sesser, Illinois, in 1952, and later attended Southern Illinois University in Carbondale, where he studied Agriculture Sciences. Those early years shaped a man who understood the value of labor, the dignity of service, and the blessing of a life well-ordered
under God’s hand.

In his youth, after his father’s untimely death, Richard worked the family farm, starting at the age of 13, entirely on his own. And after high school, he labored at the Sesser Brick Factory. In 1952 he answered the call to serve his country by joining the United States Army, and he was honorably discharged in 1954. Such service stood as a noble chapter in a life already distinguished by duty and courage. Afterward, he became an Illinois State Trooper and was assigned to the counties of Clark, Crawford and Jasper, before being re-assigned to the Chicago
District, where he carried out his responsibilities with discipline and integrity. While in Chicago, he also attended and graduated from Worsham School of Embalming and Funeral Directing, preparing himself for a vocation that would allow him to serve grieving families with compassion and dignity.

One evening, while assigned to the Chicago State Police District, Richard and Mary were on a date, and Richard spotted a man taking a woman’s purse. Richard quickly subdued the villain
and took him immediately to the nearest police precinct. After delivering the purse-snatcher to the precinct, Richard’s wife, Mary said” You really know how to show a girl a good time”.
Richard prided himself in teaching invaluable lessons to many young individuals who needed more of a reprimand than a permanent criminal record. Likewise, he showed many people the consequences of their actions, like when he broke-up a car theft ring, singlehandedly. Richard later returned to Casey, Illinois, and joined the staff of Lindsay Funeral Home. In time,
through diligence and trust earned over many years, he purchased the business and guided it as Lindsay-Brayfield Funeral Home for several years. His work in funeral service was not merely employment, but a ministry of comfort, where he offered steady hands and a gentle heart to those walking through sorrow. He later became a member of Local 157, Plumbers’ and Steamfitters’ Union of Terre Haute, Indiana, and planted his roots firmly in the Clark County area, where he remained a respected and familiar presence.

He was united in marriage to Mary Elizabeth (Woll), and together they shared 66 devoted years of marriage until her passing in 2025. Their union was a testament to enduring love, mutual faith, and the grace that sustains a household through the seasons of life. Richard cherished his family deeply, and he leaves behind his son, Mark (Twila) Brayfield of Robinson, Illinois, and his daughter, Tonda Lee Brayfield of Robinson, Illinois. He was also blessed with grandchildren whom he dearly loved: Matthew Thomas (Larcy) Brayfield of Bakersfield, California; Patrick Alan (Catherine) Brayfield of Columbus, Ohio; Ashley (Cory) Weger of Robinson, Illinois; and Amber Halterman-Settles of Palestine, Illinois. His joy was further multiplied by his great grandchildren, Olivia Brayfield, Madison Brayfield, Henry Brayfield, Ethan Brayfield, Gracie Weger, and Brooks Weger, each of whom carried forward a precious part of his legacy.

Richard was a Christian man whose faith was not confined to word alone but shown in the manner of his living. He was friendly, optimistic, and spirited, and these qualities made him a blessing in every room he entered. He loved softball and the life around the diamond, and when he became a certified welder, he took on the task of building the bleacher seating for the Casey Softball Association. That work, practical and generous, reflected the kind of man he was, one who saw a need and answered it with skill and good cheer. He found satisfaction in contributing to the life of his community, and he did so without seeking praise, for his reward was in service itself.

In the measure of Scripture and the wisdom of the ages, Richard’s life calls to mind the words of William Shakespeare, who wrote, “The better part of valor is discretion.” Yet Richard’s own
life might be remembered as one of faithful courage, steady labor, and humble devotion, virtues that need no flourish to be admired. He lived with a practical grace, and his days were filled
with the honest labor of his hands and the tender loyalty of his heart. As the Psalmist declares, “The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.” In that promise, we commend Richard to the mercy of God, trusting that the Shepherd who guided him in life has now received him into eternal rest.

Though his earthly journey has ended, the memory of Richard Lee Brayfield will endure in the hearts of his children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, extended family, friends, and all whose lives were brightened by his presence. He leaves behind a legacy of faith, service, and love, and his example shall remain a quiet sermon to those who knew him best. May he rest in peace, and may perpetual light shine upon him.

Richard has chosen cremation and following the act, a private interment of his cremated remains will be held in Maple Hill Cemetery, Sesser, IL, with full military rites provided by the Franklin County Veteran’s of Foreign Wars Post.

Those wishing to honor Richard’s life through giving, should direct those memorials to the American Softball Association Hall of Fame Museum, Casey, Illinois.

Lynette Ann Burr, 68, of Carbondale, formerly of Benton, passed away on August 3, 2026 at Memorial Hospital of Carbondale.

She was born on March 14, 1958 to Melvin and Mildred (Robinson) Bigham.

She is survived by her brother Rick Bigham of Benton, five grandchildren and a special friend Joey.

She was preceded in death by her parents, two daughters Melissa Elder and Heather Elder, and two sisters Gaila Riddle and Marquetta Bigham.

Her wishes were to be cremated with no services.

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

Nelson Wayne Holman, age 78, of Benton; passed away at 9:52 a.m. Friday, July 31, 2026, at the Deaconess Illinois Medical Center of Marion, Illinois.

Private Family Graveside Services will be held at 11:00 a.m. Wednesday, August 5, 2026, at the Elder S.M. Williams Cemetery of Ewing, Illinois. Military Honors will be provided by the Benton American Legion Post #280, the V.F.W. Post #2671, and the Army National Guard honor’s team.

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

Nelson was born on November 28, 1947, in Orient, Illinois; the son of Nelson Wayne Holman, Sr. and Clarice (Adkins) Holman.
He was inducted into the U.S. Army on June 19, 1967. He would proudly serve his Country in the Vietnam War.

Mr. Holman formerly worked in the coal mines for several years. He later worked as the Superintendent of the West City Water Department, where he was employed for over twenty years.
He was of the Christian faith. He loved watching sports of any kind. He also had a love for antique cars and enjoyed seeing them and reminiscing about cars from his era.
He will be greatly missed by his daughter and caretaker Melanie Stewart and Melanie’s husband Eric, whom Nelson loved as his own. Also surviving is a daughter Melissa Teal and husband Davie; four grandchildren: Caleb and Noah Stewart, and Megan and Levi Teal; brothers: Donald Holman and wife Roseann, Larry Holman, a sister Cheryl Martin and husband Doug, and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, three brothers: Kenneth, Bill, and Jack; and three sisters: Arvada, Betty, and Sandy.
Memorial contributions may be made in memory of Nelson Holman, to the Veterans Honor Flight of Southern Illinois, 10400 Terminal Drive, Suite 200, Marion, Illinois 62959.
To give condolences online, or to share memories of Nelson, visit www.lpfuneralhome.com.

Mary Lou Harrison, 86, of Christopher, passed away peacefully on Thursday July 30, 2026 at Franklin Hospital.

She was a loving wife, mother. grandmother and great grandmother.

She married Isham Harrison on November 12, 1961, they were married 57 years until his passing in 2018.

Mary Lou leaves behind two children Mary Ann (Jeff) Wingo and Tom (Kendra) Harrison; grandchildren Tiffanie (Dustin) Young, Samantha (Brad) Chapman, Morgan Garrison, Chris Harrison and Kaci Harrison; great grandchildren Kase and Korbin Young, Lynnex and Logan Webb and Maybree Garrison.

She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, one son-in-law Mike Patchett and a granddaughter Kelly Marie Harrison.

A Celebration of Life will be on Saturday August 15, 2026 at 1:00 PM at the Gilbert Funeral Home in Christopher with Brother Brad Ryan officiating. Visitation will be on Saturday from 11:00 Am until the time of the service at 1:00 PM at the funeral home. Burial will be at Harrison Cemetery.

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

Loretta Ann Halliday, age 79, of Macedonia, went to be with her Lord and Savior at 4:18 p.m., Sunday, July 26, 2026.

Loretta’s wishes were to be cremated. A Celebration of Life Service will be announced at a future date.

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

Loretta was born on March 23, 1947, in Detroit, Michigan; the daughter of Robert and Lillian (Lince) Beck. She married Daniel Elmer Halliday on May 31, 1969, and he preceded her in death on February 8, 2026. Together they shared 56 years of marriage.

She was known as the “Flower Lady” at Big O Farm & Garden of Thompsonville. Her daughter Katie said she had an area in Big O’s where she worked on sickly flowers and plants for their customers.

Loretta loved the outdoors, including birdwatching, tending to her flower garden. She enjoyed playing Animal Crossing on her Nintendo Switch, scrap booking, and crafting. Her greatest pleasure was spending time in nature with her two grandchildren.

She and her late husband Dan, faithfully attended and served at the Jackson Grove Baptist Church of Benton.
Loretta is survived by her loving daughter Katie Wayman and husband Matthew of Christopher, Illinois; two grandchildren: Harper Wayman and Spencer Wayman; a sister Carol McCarty of Michigan, a brother Charles “Chuck” Beck of Pontiac, Michigan, sister-in-law and best friend Trish Halliday of Benton, Illinois; and several nieces, nephews, friends, and her church family at Jackson Grove.

She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, a brother Michael Beck, and two brothers-in-law Rodney McCarty and Michael Halliday.
Memorial Contributions, In Loving Memory of Loretta Halliday, may be made to the Jackson Grove Baptist Church and will be accepted at the services.
To give condolences to the family online, or to share memories of Loretta, visit www.lpfuneralhome.com.

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David Loyd Hastings, age 82, of Christopher, IL, passed away at 3:45 p.m., on Friday, July 24, 2026, at his residence, surrounded by his family.

David was born on December 23, 1943, in Carbondale, IL to Claude and Lucy (Nichols) Hastings. David married Marilynn Buck and she preceded him in death.

He worked as a truck driver for Michael Walters Trucking and in engineering at Franklin Hospital in Benton.

David enjoyed bowling on the Michael Walters Trucking bowling team. He loved riding his motorcycle with his brother, Claude Allen and friend, Tom McClearin. He enjoyed carpentry work and loved building cabinets, decks and on occasion, a gazebo. He was always outside working on his yard and planting and caring for his plants and his garden.He is survived by his children, Nancy Kay (Shannon M. “Mike” Williams) Green, Brenda (Kevin) Horn, Kathy Hastings and Elizabeth (Jeramiah) Barnett; his brother, Claude Allen; his sister, Betty Jo and many grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Claude and Lucy Hastings, his wife, Marilynn Hastings, his sisters, Bea, Juanita and Martha and his brother, Jerry.

Graveside services will be held on Thursday, July 30, 2026, at 1:00 p.m., at Liberty-Ridlin Cemetery in Macedonia, IL.

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

Randy Earl Wiggins, age 79, of Benton; passed away at 8:20 a.m. Saturday, July 18, 2026, at his home.

Private family Graveside services will be held at 1:00 p.m. Wednesday, July 22, 2026, at the Masonic & Odd Fellows Cemetery of Benton, with Seth Schlag officiating.

Family members are asked to go directly to the cemetery. The Leffler Funeral Home of Benton is in charge of the services.

Randy was born on February 3, 1947, in Baltimore, Maryland; the son of Ray Elmo and Golden Marie (Beard) Wiggins. He married the former Brenda Kay Gipson on June 8, 1968, and together they shared in 58 years of marriage.
Randy formerly worked as a dispatcher with the city of Benton. He also formerly taught art with the Trico School District and later worked at the Learning Resource Center at Rend Lake College.

He was a member of New Hope Missionary Baptist Church. Randy enjoyed and loved to paint and was known for his artwork and family birthday cards. He also liked to read, but most of all he loved spending time and spoiling his daughter, two grandsons and two great-grandsons who he was known as “Gramps.”

Surviving is his loving wife Brenda Wiggins of Benton, Illinois, a daughter Christina Roach and husband David of Marion, Illinois, two grandsons Andrew Hayter and wife Valerie of Marion, Illinois, David Roach and husband Daniel of Maryland Heights, Missouri; two great-grandsons Charlie and Anderson Hayter; a sister-in-law Judy Lampley and husband Danny of Benton, Illinois, a brother-in-law John Gipson and wife Jennifer of Benton, Illinois; and several nieces and nephews and their families.
He was preceded in death by his parents: Ray Elmo and Golden Marie Wiggins, his grandmother that helped raise him Mamie Beard, father-in-law and mother-in-law Charles “Chalk” and Sylvia Gipson, a sister-in-law Pam Prior and a nephew Matthew Gipson.
Memorial contributions may be made in memory of Randy Wiggins, to the Benton Public Library, 502 South Main Street, Benton, Illinois 62812.
To give condolences online, or to share memories of Randy, visit www.lpfuneralhome.com.

Carol Ann Sink, 86, of Sesser, passed away on Friday July 17, 2026 at Greentree Memory Care Center in Mt Vernon.

She was born on September 21, 1939 in Kenosha, WI to Roscoe and Etta (Pedley) Torrey. She married Gilbert “Gib” Sink and he preceded her in death on September 13, 2021.

She is survived by her children Kristen (Kevin) Minor of Sesser and Guy (Kina) Sink of Zeigler; grandchildren Lindsey (Ben) Mundstock, Tyson Shurtz, Torrey (Kyle) Massey, Christian Sink, Jenessa Watson, Koya Barlow and Shania Dorris; great grandchildren Paxton, Miles, Abram, Hutch, Tripp, Sadie, Scout, Jreyson, Laya, Tate, Amir and Mason. She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, five siblings Gloria Bailey, Phyllis Maginn, Sharon Meyer, Lynn Torrey and Maryln Zirbel.

Graveside services will be held on Tuesday July 21, 2026 at 11:00 Am at the Maple Hill Cemetery with Brother Larry Cook officiating. Friends and family are asked to meet at the cemetery.

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

Bill Eugene Tasky, age 85, of Benton; passed away at 10:26 a.m. Wednesday, July 15, 2026, at the Franklin Hospital of Benton.

Graveside services will be held at 11:00 a.m. Saturday, July 25, 2026, at the Masonic & Odd Fellows Cemetery of Benton, with Father Urban Osuji officiating. Military Honors will be provided by the Benton American Legion Post #280, the V.F.W. Post #2671, and the Army National Guard honor’s team.
Family and friends are asked to go directly to the cemetery. The Leffler Funeral Home of Benton is in charge of the services.

Bill was born on August 10, 1940, in Christopher, Illinois; the son of Duke and Opal (Hall) Tasky. He married Nancy Elaine “Shorty” Moore on September 6, 1958, and she preceded him in death on June 16, 2021.

In 1962 Bill enlisted in the U.S. Army where he served his country obtaining the rank of Private First Class. Mr. Tasky formerly worked as a laborer for the railroad.
He was a member of St. Joseph Catholic Church of Benton, Illinois, the Knights of Columbus, and the American Legion Post #280 of Benton.

Bill enjoyed cooking and baking his famous white pies. He loved to visit with friends at Wal-Mart and Save-A-Lot. He liked going to eat at the Polar Whip in Energy. Gardening, fishing for bluegills and hunting squirrels were a favorite past-time. He also loved animals, especially Snowball and Skippy, and he even fed the neighborhood cats and on occasion a raccoon and a skunk.

Surviving are three children: Kim Mandrell and husband Mike of Benton, Illinois, Christine Richardson of Benton, Illinois, William David Tasky of Portsmouth, Virginia; grandchildren including: Heather Young and husband Keith of Benton, Illinois, John Tasky and wife Heather of Du Quoin, Illinois, Lacey Cooksey and husband Andrew of Benton, Illinois, Michael David Tasky and wife Hillary of Virginia, Sabrina Tasky of Portsmouth, Virginia, Damian Parker and wife Amanda of Tennessee; great-grandchildren: Alex, Jace, Grayson, Dexter, Adylynne and one on the way; a sister Donna Thompson of Peoria, Illinois, two half-sisters Linda Knapp of Benton, Illinois, Cindy Eldridge and husband Danny of Benton, Illinois; a brother-in-law David Cummings and companion Patty Gray of Benton, Illinois, a sister-in-law Mary Jane Tasky of Benton, Illinois, a special nephew Jarad Cummings and a special great-niece Aerobella Breedwell-Cummings, lots of other nieces and nephews and several friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife, an infant daughter Terry Lynn Tasky, a son Bruce Allen Tasky, a brother Onnie Joe Tasky, a son-in-law D.T. Richardson, and a brother-in-law Mark Thompson.

Memorial contributions may be made in memory of Bill E. Tasky, to the Veterans Honor Flight of Southern Illinois, 10400 Terminal Drive, Suite 200, Marion, Illinois 62959, and will be accepted at the services.
To give condolences online, or to share memories of Bill, visit www.lpfuneralhome.com.