Joe (Joseph Henry) Bortoletto departed this world on May 15, 2026 at the age of 74. Joe passed suddenly and unexpectedly at his home in West Frankfort IL. Joe was born in Christopher, IL on October 26, 1951 to Joe and Florence (Curry) Bortoletto.

Joe lived a life marked by joy, authenticity, and an unmistakable energy. Known by the nickname “Speedy” while growing up in Benton, Illinois, Joe seemed to do everything quickly, he was a speed reader, a fast learner, and a quick wit who rarely slowed down. He had an incredible ability to absorb information, often reading a 500-page book in just a few hours while remembering nearly every detail. As a junior in high school, he scored at the reading comprehension level of a college senior, a reflection of the intelligence and curiosity that stayed with him throughout his life.

He was a graduate of Benton Consolidated High School, class of 1970. Joe attended Southern Illinois University Carbondale, where he earned his bachelor’s degree in Political Science in only three years. After college, he met his wife, Annette Alexander. The two were married on December 20, 1980, at First Baptist Church in Mattoon, IL.

Together they built a life centered on family. Joe and Annette first lived in Bloomington, Illinois, before eventually settling in Manteno, Illinois, where they opened and operated a State Farm Insurance agency together for 30 years. After the passing of his wife Annette on May 15th 2023, Joe returned to Southern Illinois and bought a house in West Frankfort. Through his work and everyday life, Joe had a remarkable gift for connecting with people. He could talk to anyone about anything, making others feel comfortable and valued almost instantly.
Above all else, Joe was a devoted husband and a loving father to his three sons, Adam, and his twin sons John, and Robert. He always put his family first and took great pride in being a steady and caring presence in their lives.

Joe truly embodied the spirit of a Renaissance man. His knowledge seemed endless, and his interests ranged from cars and history to books and lifelong learning. No matter the circumstance, he carried himself with warmth, humor, and optimism. He was almost always in a good mood and made it his mission to put others at ease. Joe’s intelligence, kindness, and vibrant personality left a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to know him.

Joe is survived by his sons, Adam of Cedar Lake, Indiana and John of St Louis, Mo and Robert and daughter in law, Barbie and granddaughters, Nettie and Dottie of Maryland Heights, Mo. His older brother John and his wife Peggy, of Montgomery, Texas. Joe’s niece Gina and her husband Justin Locascio of Boston, MA. Cousins, Scott and Jennifer Pearce and Joe and Sally Pearce of Marion, IL. Special friend and companion, Sandra Evans of West Frankfort, IL.

There will be a Memorial Service held on Saturday, June 6 at 4:00 pm at Morton and Johnson funeral home in Benton, Illinois. Visitation will be from 2:00 P.M. to 4:00 P.M. on Saturday at the funeral home.

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

Wanda F. Kimmel, age 89, of Benton, IL, passed away at 2:06 p.m., on Saturday, May 30, 2026, at her home surrounded by her loving family.

Wanda was born on January 26, 1937, to Guy and Cleda Harris in Galatia, IL. On June 12, 1959, Wanda married Langley Kimmel and he preceded her in death on September 29, 1998.

She was a member of the Westminster Presbyterian Church in Benton, IL. She was also a member of the Clerks Union.

For over 20 years Wanda worked as the receptionist at SCD Rea & Sons Insurance Company. She thoroughly enjoyed welcoming and assisting customers every day. Wanda was a people person and whether she was at work or out and about, she never met a stranger and loved a good, lively conversation.

Wanda enjoyed shopping and was known for her classy appearance. She loved the “Bling” and the more Bling it had, the better she liked it. She also loved dancing.

Wanda is survived by her loving daughter, Rhonda Gilbreath and her husband, Dwight and her grandson, Shawn Gilbreath.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Guy and Cleda Harris, her husband, Langley Kimmel and her sister, Virginia Sneed.

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

Visitation will be held on Friday, June 5, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., at Pate Funeral Home.

Funeral services will be held directly after the visitation on Friday, June 5, 2026, at 12:00 p.m., at Pate Funeral Home with the Reverend Bob Hagerman, officiating.

Following the funeral service, burial will take place in the Masonic and Odd Fellow Cemetery, Benton.

Memorials may be made to Hospice of Southern Illinois and will be accepted at the funeral home.

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

Carolyn Elsie Irvin, age 82, of Benton, passed away Sunday, May 31, 2026, at her daughter’s home in Benton.

Carolyn was born on November 5, 1943, in Chicago, Illinois, the daughter of William and Elsie Francis (Liska) Antos. She married Teddy Irvin, Sr. on April 9, 1962, and he survives.

Mrs. Irvin was a retired factory worker, having worked for the Maytag, Norge, and Whirlpool companies.

Mrs. Irvin enjoyed listening to country music, dancing, visiting, and spending time with her family and friends.

Surviving is her loving husband of 64 years, Teddy Irvin, Sr. of Benton, IL; her loving children: Teddy Irvin, Jr. and wife Lynn of Carterville, IL, Kimberly Kash and husband Mony of Benton, IL, William Irvin and wife Melissa of West Frankfort, IL; grandchildren including: Brittany, Breanna, William, Kendra, Kayla and Jeremy; great-grandchildren including: Jocelynn, Valeigh, Layla, Phillip, Waylon, Carolyn and Caitlyn; and several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, two brothers William Antos and Ronald “Spike” Antos, and a sister Filomena Pippenger.

Funeral services will be held at 1:00 p.m. Thursday, June 4, 2026, at the Leffler Funeral Home of Benton, Illinois, with Rev. Harol Whitlock officiating. Burial will follow in the Plasters Cemetery of Thompsonville, IL. Visitation will be from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Thursday, at the Leffler Funeral Home.

The family prefers that Memorial Contributions, In Memory of Carolyn, be made to Residential Hospice and will be accepted at the service.

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

Daniel Elmer Halliday, age 74, of Macedonia, went to be with his Lord and Savior on Sunday, February 8, 2026.
Dan’s wishes were to be cremated.

Celebration of Life Services will be held Saturday, June 6, 2026, at the Jackson Grove Baptist Church of Benton. Service schedule is as follows:

An Open House Visitation will be held from 1:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.
“Make A Joyful Noise” Praise Service from 2:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. with Rev. Kevin Bullard officiating

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

Dan was born on February 12, 1951, in Pontiac, Michigan; the son of Elmer Slivester Halliday and Zelda Marie (Bell) Halliday. He married the former Loretta Ann Beck on May 31, 1969, and she survives. Together they shared 56 years of marriage.
He was a retired registered nurse. Most of his years in nursing he worked for Franklin Skilled Care Nursing Unit of Benton and later worked with DaVita Dialysis of West City.

Brother Dan loved his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. He would witness and testify to people about his love for the Lord. He and his wife faithfully served at the Jackson Grove Baptist Church of Benton, where he served as the worship leader and he also served the church as a janitor.
He enjoyed witnessing about Jesus, participating with the Love Packages Ministry of Butler, Illinois. He also enjoyed watching nature, but most of all he enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren.

Dan is survived by his loving wife Loretta Halliday of Macedonia, Illinois; a daughter Katie Wayman and husband Matthew of Christopher, Illinois; two grandchildren: Harper Wayman and Spencer Wayman; a sister Sharon Hodge and husband Richard of Auburn Heights, Michigan; a sister-in-law Trish Halliday of Benton, Illinois; and several nieces, nephews, friends, and his church family at Jackson Grove.

He was preceded in death by his parents, and a brother Mike Halliday.

Memorial Contributions In Loving Memory of Dan Halliday, may be made to the Jackson Grove Baptist Church and will be accepted at the services
To give online condolences to the family, or to share memories of Dan, visit www.lpfuneralhome.com.

Donita Marie Coffel, 69, of Mulkeytown, passed away on Wednesday May 27, 2026 at her home.

She was born on May 10, 1957 in Valparaiso, IN to John and Patricia (Dixson) Peer. She married Scott Coffel on April 22, 1991 and he survives of Mulkeytown.

She is also survived by her children Alyson (Brian) Risley of Sesser and Amanda Dellow of Texas; grandchildren Morgan Dellow, Nolan Dellow, Brianna (Josh) Wilson and Dalton Risley; great grandchildren Oaklynn, Colson and Gunnar and special friends Becky (Dock) Kirchner of Mulkeytown.

She was preceded in death by her Father John Peer, Mother Patricia Tauscher and Step-Father Herb Tauscher, one sister Melissa Hartsell and one brother John Peer.

A Memorial Visitation will be held on Saturday June 6, 2026 from 11:00 AM until 1:00 PM at the Gilbert Funeral Home in Christopher. Donita’s wishes were to be cremated.

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

SESSER – The life of Loretta Marie Eubanks was a life well-lived. Loretta was a woman with a wonderful sense of humor who never met a stranger. She was a wife, mother, grandmother, and great grandmother who loved her family intensely, cherished every moment with them, and always made sure they were well-fed. Loretta was also loved by many friends who recall Loretta’s smile, her humor, and her kind nature. Loretta will be missed dearly by all of those who loved and knew her.

Loretta was born in Sesser, IL to Mary (Bausano) and Guido Antonio Lamberti, Jr. on October 13, 1941. Loretta married Donald Ray Eubanks on October 9, 1965, and they were married for over 60 years. Loretta was a homemaker for most of her adult life and worked for several years in the kitchen at Sesser-Valier School District. She spent her days taking care of her husband, her family, and her home which brought her such joy. Loretta passed away at home on May 26, 2026.

Loretta’s husband Donald survives as well as her children Julie and Jeff Webb of Sesser, John Eubanks of Coulterville, Natalie and Brian Page of Sesser, and her step-daughters Karen Delaney and Gayla Eubanks of Mt. Vernon. She is also survived by her grandchildren Jim Delaney, Hannah (Rachel) Webb, Madison (Devan) Lamke, Ali (Tyler) Krough, Harlie (Bryce) Jones, John Eubanks Jr., Johnel Eubanks, Mazie Eubanks, Addison (Olivia) Page, and Carlie Page, as well as her great-grandchildren Kaitlynn, Carter, Logan, Jules, Heath, Whitt, Ayson, Isla, Ivory, Collins, Rhen, Weston, Hayes, Elsie, Elena, Violet, and Dani. She is also survived by many nieces, nephews, and cousins who are all going to miss her dearly.

Loretta was preceded in death by her parents Guido and Mary, her brother Donald Lamberti, her father and mother-in-law Clyde and Lola Eubanks along with other beloved extended family. Visitation will be held on Friday, May 29, 2026 from 10 AM -1 PM at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Benton. A funeral mass will be held on Friday at 1 PM following the visitation with burial at Maple Hill Cemetery in Sesser immediately after. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Sesser-Valier School District.

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

Robert S. “Bob” Rea, 74, of Benton, Illinois, passed away at 10:21 p.m. on Monday, May 25, 2026, at Franklin Hospital, leaving behind a legacy of service, leadership, and devotion to the community he loved so deeply.

Born in Benton, Illinois, to S. Jerome and Mary Charles (Farris) Rea, Bob spent his entire life investing in the betterment of Franklin County and the people who called it home. A respected insurance agent and longtime owner and partner of SCD Rea & Sons Insurance Company in Benton, Bob dedicated more than five decades to serving local families and businesses with integrity, wisdom, and compassion. Bob spent these last seven years working alongside his partner and daughter, Hilary Rea Remm. He was proudly the third generation to run SCD Rea & Sons, the second oldest family operated business in Franklin County.

On May 1, 1981, Bob married the love of his life, Brenda J. Gould. Together they shared 45 years of marriage built on faith, family, and unwavering partnership.

Bob was far more than a businessman — he was a pillar of the Benton community and a passionate local historian whose love for Franklin County’s heritage shaped countless preservation efforts throughout the region. He served as President of the Franklin County Historical Preservation Society continuously since 1996 and was a past President and Director of the Franklin County Tourism Bureau. He dedicated hours to preserving stories through reenacting historical figures like Charlie Birger and General John A Logan for schools and tour groups. He also dedicated years restoring landmarks such as the Franklin County Jail Museum and the 1910s Garage Museum which earned him the admiration of friends, neighbors, and civic leaders alike. He contributed to multiple community improvements such as designing Capital Park and contributing to the design of the new Franklin County Courthouse.

A graduate of Eastern Illinois University with a Bachelor of Science in Business Management, Bob was also deeply involved in civic and professional organizations. He was a member of the Illinois Professional Insurance Agents Association, a loyal member of the Benton Rotary Club, served on the Benton Police Pension Fund and Benton Planning Commission. In recognition of his extraordinary service, he was named Benton/West City Chamber of Commerce Citizen of the Year in 1996 and received the Liberty Bell Award from the Franklin County Bar Association in 1998.

Bob was an active member of the Church Street Bible Study Group. Those who knew Bob will remember his generous spirit, steady guidance, quick wit, and genuine love for people and history. Whether mentoring young business owners, supporting community projects, sharing stories of Franklin County’s past, or spending time with family, Bob’s presence brought charisma and zeal wherever he went. Bob loved to play the bass, classical, and acoustic guitar while playing the harmonica and singing. A highlight of family gatherings would be concerts that he would stage with his grandchildren at home. He played bass guitar in several bands including The Beggar’s Opera and The Associated Sound in high school and later i.c. Blue. Bob also enjoyed traveling with his wife, friends and family and visiting his daughter Scarlett’s family in Alabama.

He is survived by his loving wife, Brenda J. Rea; daughters, Scarlett Kristen Rea Lyons and husband Dale Kenneth Lyons, Jr., and Hilary Jean Rea Remm and husband Paul Michael Remm; cherished grandchildren, Adeline Grace Lyons, Emmalise Faith Lyons, Sarah Hope Lyons, Ariadne Rahveen Remm, and Kai Nazareth Remm; and his sister, Mary Ellen Aiken and husband John D. Aiken.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his infant son, Robert Jefferson Rea.

Funeral Services have been entrusted to Pate Funeral Home, 301 S. Main St., Benton, IL.

Visitation will be held Friday, May 29, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m. at the Benton Civic Center, 414 West Hudelson Street, Benton, Illinois.

A Celebration of Life will immediately follow at 2:00 p.m. at the Benton Civic Center.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Bob’s honor to the Franklin County Historic Preservation Society (can be mailed at PO Box 399, Benton, IL 62812) continuing the work and mission that meant so much to him throughout his life.

Matthew Charles Gipson, age 33, of Carbondale, passed away at 12:20 p.m., Saturday, May 23, 2026, at the SIH Memorial Hospital of Carbondale.

Matt was born on May 31, 1992, in Herrin, IL, the son of Johnnie L. Gipson and Jennifer Lynn (Greenwood) Gipson.

He was a graduate of Benton Consolidated High School Class of 2011 and he worked as a retail salesclerk.

Matthew enjoyed deer hunting, traveling, and eating Mexican food. He also enjoyed hanging out with friends.

Surviving is his loving parents Johnnie and Jennifer Gipson of Benton, IL, his brother Trevor John Gipson of Marion, IL, his special niece that he dearly loved, Quinn Gipson of Benton, IL, maternal grandparents Keith Greenwood (Brenda) of West Frankfort, IL, an uncle Mark Greenwood of Benton, IL, aunts Brenda Wiggins (Randy) of Benton, IL, Judy Lampley (Danny) of Benton, IL, Meg Dickey (Bill) of McLeansboro, IL. Also surviving is his best friend Robert Burress of Carbondale, IL, his special friends whom he dearly loved: Alexa, K-Dog, M-Dog and “Juicy”; and several cousins.
He was preceded in death by his paternal grandparents, Charles “Chalk” and Sylvia Gipson, and an Aunt Pam Prior.

Matthew will be cremated and his wishes are for a Family and Friend’s Celebration of Life and will be announced at a future date.
To give condolences online to the family, or to share memories of Matthew, go to www.lpfuneralhome.com.
The Leffler Funeral Home of Benton is in charge of the cremation arrangements.

Bradford “Brad” Kirk, 72, of Sesser, passed peacefully on May 17, 2026.

Brad was born to Herschel “Doc” and Virginia “Gee” (Wyatt) Kirk on September 8, 1953.

Brad was preceded in death by his parents Herschel “Doc” and Virginia “Gee” Kirk and brother James. He is survived by his wife of 49 years, Terry. His children and their spouses, Lacy (Bryan) Woolsey, Afton (Chad) Szczeblewski, and Jordan (Brittany) Kirk. Also surviving are his grandchildren, his pride and joy, Gabe and Carson Woolsey, Ryder Szczeblewski, and Baylor Kirk.

Brad was a proud member of the UMWA and worked for Consolidated coal at Burning Star #4 mine for 24 years. After the closure of the mine, Brad attended SIUC where he earned his degree in industrial technology. He wore many hats over the years working in parts/service management for heavy equipment, and car/RV sales. His final, and favorite, “retirement” job being a bus driver for the Sesser-Valier School District. He truly enjoyed being a part of the school community and looked forward to his daily interactions with the kids on his route.

Brad had many great qualities that made him special. He was an exceptional husband, dad, and grandpa, always showing love and support. He was a true people person and enjoyed connecting with others. He worked hard and took pride in his work. Sick days and time off were not in his vocabulary. He was a problem solver, the “fixer” of all. He was also a loyal friend and cherished those friendships. His self-less, kind, welcoming soul will be forever missed by all who loved him.

In honor of his final wishes, a private celebration of life will be held, by his loving family, at a later date. His final resting place will be at Old Baptist Cemetery in Waltonville, IL. In memory, donations can be made to the American Cancer Society to honor Brad, his brave battle with pancreatic cancer and his hope to help others.

Services have been entrusted to Pate Funeral Home, 301 South Main Street, Benton, Illinois 62812.

Condolences may be expressed online at www.patefh.com.

Robert Henry Zappa, age 61, of West Frankfort, passed away Monday morning at his home in West Frankfort.

Robert was born August 6, 1964, in Oahu, Hawaii; the son of John Henry Zappa and Barbara (Buckner Zappa. He married the former Leslie Ellen Shockley on September 24, 2011, and she survives.

He worked in the fencing business and worked with several area fencing companies including Terrace Fence, Gardner Fence and Allegiance Fence.

Robert enjoyed fishing, hunting, and watching Ghost Adventures and Westerns.

Surviving is his loving wife Leslie Zappa of West Frankfort, IL; a son Cody Zappa of Energy, IL, two step-sons: Bobby and Lee Land; a grandson Jude Zappa; siblings: Brian Zappa and wife Oona of Eldorado, IL, Angela Poland and husband John of Marion, IL, John Zappa of West Frankfort, IL, Loren Lemasters of Marion, IL, Dana Lemasters of West Frankfort, IL, father-in-law and mother-in-law Paul and Ellen Shockley of Benton, IL; a brother-in-law Jeff Shockley of Benton, IL; a sister-in-law Rachel Shockley of Benton, IL; his buddy Smokey the cat; and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his father John Henry Zappa; his mother and stepfather Barbara and Loren Lemasters, and a sister Brenda Crawford.
Funeral Services will be held at 2:00 p.m. Thursday, May 21, 2026, at the Leffler Funeral Home of Benton with Jim Muir officiating. Visitation will be held from 12:00 noon to 2:00 p.m. Thursday at the Leffler Funeral Home of Benton.

Future burial services will be at the Masonic & Odd Fellows Cemetery of Benton, IL, and will be announced when scheduled.
To give online condolences to the family, or to share memories of Robert, go to www.lpfuneralhome.com.