Richard Wayne Harbour, age 69, of Benton, passed away at his home in Benton, Illinois.

Richard was born on February 4, 1957, in Vandalia, Illinois, the son of Richard Arthur and Melinda Louise (Harris) Harbour.

Wayne was a graduate of Gillespie High School Class of 1975.

He was a retired First Mate having worked with riverboat barges. Before that, he worked in the Illinois Department of Corrections as a corrections officer in Pontiac, Illinois, and for eight years prior to being a corrections officer, he was a police officer in Benld and Wilsonville, Illinois.

Wayne enjoyed riding his motorcycle, watching, and attending football games, and being outdoors. His favorite NFL team was the Tennessee Titans (Houston Oilers).
Surviving are four children: Stephanie Harbour of Gillespie, Illinois, Richard Wayne Harbour, JR. and wife Kacy of White Plains, Kentucky, Scott Harbour of Jacksonville, Illinois, Shawna Mason and husband Barry of Mayfield, Kentucky; grandchildren including Trenton, Peyton, Isabella, Nicholas “Clay,” Katie Anne, Mytchel, Treyton, Kaizen, Arlington Christopher, Kiara, Jonathan, Holden, Jaylin and Gavyn; a sister Rose Marie LaRue-Newman and husband Steven of West Frankfort, Illinois.

He was preceded in death by his parents, and a daughter Rochelle Harbour.

His wishes are to be cremated, with no public services.

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

Memorial Contributions, In Memory of Richard W. Harbour, SR., may be made to the American Heart Association.
To give condolences to the family online, or to share memories of Richard Wayne Harbour, SR, visit www.lpfuneralhome.com.

Wolfgang Manfred Josef Kaak, age 78, of Benton, Illinois, passed away at 12:15 p.m. Wednesday, November 11, 2026, at the SIH Herrin Hospital.

Joe was born on August 5, 1948, in Hamburg, Germany, the son of Egon and Elfriede (Fabel) Kaak. He married the former Marianne Kathleen (Katus) Brugger on November 9, 2002.
Joe proudly served his country in the United States Army during the Vietnam War.

He was a retired Federal Mine Inspector.

He was a member of the First United Methodist Church of Benton, and the Benton Lions Club.

Joe enjoyed playing golf and tennis, reading, and watching sports. He loved listening to 60’s music, especially Jimmy Buffet, he enjoyed “Phantom of the Opera.”
Joe also enjoyed his time spent during coffee hour with his church friends on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Wednesdays at The Buzz. Then on Fridays he would spend time at coffee with his retired referees and officials at the Cozy Table.

Surviving is his loving wife Marianne Kaak of Benton, Illinois; a daughter Andrea McMahon and significant other Daniel Payne of Franklin, Tennessee, a son Geoffrey Kaak and wife Jamie of Christopher, Illinois; two step-children Greg Brugger and wife Angi of Benton, Illinois, Stephanie Brugger and partner Ryan Miller of Benton, Illinois; four grandchildren: Ian McMahon of Nashville, Tennessee, Brooklyn Wyant and husband Asher of Benton, Illinois, Cole Brugger and wife Brianna of the US Air Force, Calee Brugger of Benton, Illinois; his mother Elfriede Kaak of Peoria, Illinois; a brother Stephan Kaak and wife Debbie of Peoria, Illinois, and a nephew Scott Kaak and wife Tamera and son Meyer of Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

He was preceded in death by his father and his paternal and maternal grandparents.
Joe’s wishes are to be cremated.

The Leffler Funeral Home of Benton is in charge of the cremation arrangements.
A Memorial Celebration of Life Service will be held at 4:00 p.m. on Sunday, December 6, 2026, at the First United Methodist Church of Benton, Illinois, with Rev. Jesse Hinds officiating. Visitation will be from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. Sunday, December 6, 2026, at the First United Methodist Church in Benton.
Memorial Contributions, In Loving Memory of Joe, may be made to the First United Methodist Church of Benton.
To give condolences to the family online, or to share memories of Joe, visit www.lpfuneralhome.com.

Cordean French, born on July 22, 1959, in Hawaii, passed away peacefully on November 6, 2026, at the age of 67.

Born under the island sun, Cordean carried the quiet warmth and gentle spirit of Hawaii with her throughout her life. She dedicated her life to the nursing profession, bringing care and comfort to communities across both Illinois and Florida over the years. Though her work spanned different areas of healthcare, caring for children as a pediatric nurse was the calling closest to her heart. Her gentle touch, steady presence, and compassionate heart brought reassurance to countless young patients and their families when they needed it most.

Though Cordean led a quiet life, she loved deeply and built meaningful, lasting connections. She is survived by her devoted friend and her cherished dog, Grace, who both brought immense comfort, companionship, and unconditional love to her days.

In accordance with her heartfelt wishes, Cordean will be brought back to her homeland of Hawaii to rest among the islands where her story began.

Cordean’s life was a testament to the fact that true impact is measured by the kindness we offer to the vulnerable and the quiet love we share with those around us.

She will be remembered fondly and missed deeply. Aloha ‘Oe, Cordean.

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

In Loving Memory of Teresa Gail Lingas
December 13, 1961 – November 10, 2026

Teresa Gail Lingas, 64, of Benton, Illinois, passed away on Tuesday, November 10, 2026, surrounded by the love of her family. Her passing came unexpectedly, following a brief and courageous battle with cancer, leaving her family and all who knew her heartbroken by the sudden loss of a woman who meant so much to so many.

Born on December 13, 1961, Teresa was the daughter of the late Odria and Patricia Ingram.

In 1979, Teresa married the love of her life, James (Jim) Lingas. Together, they shared 47 years of marriage, building a life centered around love, family, and countless cherished memories. Their marriage was blessed with two children, James (Jimmy) and Staci, who remained a source of tremendous pride and joy throughout her life.

Above all else, Teresa’s greatest happiness came from being a mother and grandmother. She adored her four grandchildren and took immense pride in watching them grow, celebrating their accomplishments, and supporting them in everything they pursued. Whether attending their activities, cheering them on from the sidelines, or simply spending time together, she treasured every opportunity to be part of their lives. She often said that watching her grandchildren grow up had been “the best part of her life.” Those words perfectly captured the love she had for them and the special place they held in her heart.

Teresa also found happiness in life’s simple pleasures. She loved traveling to tropical destinations, where she could enjoy the sunshine, warm weather, and beautiful beaches. When she wasn’t dreaming of her next beach getaway, she was happiest spending time outdoors by her pool, soaking up the sunshine and enjoying the peaceful moments of home.

Teresa will be remembered for her unwavering love and devotion to her family, her constant encouragement, and the pride she took in the people she loved. She was always there to celebrate life’s victories, offer support through its challenges, and remind those closest to her how deeply they were loved.

She is survived by her loving husband, James (Jim) Lingas; her son, James (Jimmy), and his wife, Kristi, and their three children, Ryan, Caroline, and Annabelle; her daughter, Staci, and her husband, Randy, and their daughter, Preslee; two sisters, Debbie Marvel and Alice Hackleman; one brother, Mike Ingram; and many extended family members and friends who will forever cherish her memory.

In addition to her parents, Teresa was preceded in death by her brother, Donny Lance.

Although her family never imagined having to say goodbye so soon, they find comfort in the countless memories she leaves behind and the extraordinary love she gave so freely. Her absence will be felt in every family gathering, every milestone, every celebration, and every moment when they wish she could be there.

Her greatest legacy will live on through the family she loved so dearly, especially the four grandchildren who made her life complete.

Graveside funeral services will be held at 1:00 P.M. on Friday, November 13th at the Masonic & Odd Fellows Cemetery in Benton with Rev. Mark Minor officiating. Burial will follow. There will be No Visitation, those attend the service are requested to meet at the cemetery.
For more information or to send online condolences please visit www.mortonjohnstonfuneralhome.com

William Scott Sandusky, age 58, of West City, passed away Monday, November 9, 2026.

Scott’s wishes are to be cremated.

An Informal Celebration of Life to share stories of Scott with his family and one another, will be held at 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. Saturday, November 14, 2026, at the “wall” at the sailboat harbor, south of Wayne Fitzgerrell Park at Rend Lake. A meal will follow at a place yet to be determined.
The Leffler Funeral Home of Benton is in charge of the cremation arrangements.

Scott was born on February 19, 1968, in Benton, Illinois, the son of Alva L. and Alma Louise (Gilbreath) Sandusky.

Scott graduated with BCHS Class of 1986, where he excelled in sports, and was known as being funny and an all-around nice guy.

He was employed as Zoning Administrator for the village of West City. In recent years, Scott was a full-time caregiver of his mother, a gift that cannot be measured.
Scott enjoyed Rend Lake and the outdoors. He would watch the sunrise and the wildlife. He was especially fond of watching birds and deer while taking drives around Rend Lake and would report his bird sightings to his daughter Katie. He was a sports fan of women’s basketball and softball.

His daughter Katie said she remembers the times her dad would take her and his two labrador retrievers to the former Washington School ball diamond and he would pitch countless hours to her, helping her with her hitting while the labradors retrieved the softballs. She said he would also make her shoot layups at the outdoor basketball court at Washington School, reminding her it is important to never miss a layup.
Scott’s brother Jay said that Scott had a passion for the weather. Many times, when they would call each other to discuss an approaching storm one would answer the phone, “Don McNeely speaking” and the other would say “this is Jim Cantore.”

Scott knew there were many things in life he learned not to take for granted. The best is not a thing, it is a person, Katie his precious daughter. His job was a dad, and that is a job he took very seriously, and was the best job he had.

Surviving is his loving daughter Katie Sandusky and partner Bethany Davidson of Chicago, Illinois; his loving mother Louise Sandusky of West City, Illinois; a brother Jay Sandusky and wife Kerri of Tipton, Iowa; two sisters Renee Taylor of Wilmington, Illinois, Lori McDade of Evansville, Indiana; several nieces, nephews and friends.
He was preceded in death by his maternal and paternal grandparents and his father.

Memorial Contributions, In Loving Memory of Scott Sandusky, may be made to his daughter Katie Sandusky, C/O the Leffler Funeral Home, 401 East Main Street, Benton, Illinois 62812. To give condolences to the family online, or to share memories of Scott, visit www.lpfuneralhome.com.

Keegan Thomas Willis, 19, of Ashley, passed away on November 8, 2026.

He was born on January 5, 2007 in Carbondale to Jeremiah Young and Robin (Willis) Martin.

He is survived by his mother Robin (Willis) Martin of Ashley, step-father Drake Curry of Ashley; father Jeremiah Young of Nauvoo, IL; Jason Martin of Dowell the man that raised Keegan; step-mother Natasha Young; grandmother Gayla Willis of Sesser; siblings Raelynn (Kaitlyn Copple) Willis of Buckner, Ally Martin of Moline, Nevaeh Young, Jeremiah Young, Avianna Young, Siouxfirra Young, Lorretta Young, Jebediah Young, Taccoa Young and Lakota Young all of Nauvoo, Draysen Curry and one step -brother Jacob Cogdill of Oklahoma; aunts Toshya Browder of Sesser, November (Andre Gee) Freeman of St Louis, Pamela Fisher of Dallas City, IL, Julie Fisher of Fort Madison, IA, Nicole Okubo of Arizona and Michelle Dennett of Laharpe, IL; uncles Gary Willis of Texas, Russ Miller of Sesser and TJ Freeman of Sesser and several cousins.

He was preceded in death by his grandparents Tom Freeman and Peggy Ballinger and one aunt Michelle Grubaugh.
Keegan was a student at Youth Build of South Central Illinois and was getting ready to enlist in the Army, he also worked at Dollar General in Ashley.

A Celebration of Life will be held on January 5, 2027 at 11:00 AM at the Woodlawn Community Center.
Keegan loved to go to Youth Build, he loved his dog Tilly, was an avid gamer, a very hard worker, loved cars, lifted trucks and motorcycles, and was an Old Soul.
He was very loved and will be missed dearly.

In lieu of flowers donation can be made to the Brayfield-Gilbert Funeral Home in Sesser to help with funeral expenses.
For more information go to our website www.gilbertfuneralhomes.com

Thomas Ray Arpasi, 74, of Benton, Illinois, passed away on October 26, 2026.

He was born to parents, James Joseph Arpasi and Mary Jean (Hamilton) on January 23, 1952, in Eldorado, Illinois. Tom, as most knew him, was a boat builder most of his life.

Tom was married to Linda (Champlin) for 52 plus years, who survives him. Tom leaves behind by his two sons, Thomas, wife Paula (Coons), granddaughter Mia, and Travis, wife Chelsey (Crow), granddaughters Star, Davini, & Zeppelyn, and 3 great grandchildren. He is also survived by his brother, James Joseph Arpasi II, wife Janet (Riggs), sons James Joseph Arpasi III, wife Misty (Norwood), and Thomas Arpasi, grandnephew Phillip and grandniece Addison.

Tom was preceded in death by his parents.

Tom was known for his love of gardening and shared his produce throughout the community. He was an avid crappie fisherman and loved watching college football.
There will be a Celebration of Life, November 14, 2026, at The Kiwanis Hall, 414 W Hudelson, Benton, IL from 1 – 4 pm. Family and friends are welcome to show support of the grieving family. Florals may be sent or memorials can be made to the charity of donor’s choice.

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

Athalia Taylor, 92, of Benton, passed away Thursday morning November 6, 2026 at her home.

She was born in Benton, IL on April 18, 1934 the daughter of William Henry & Sarah Marinda (Welch) Moore.

She married Elmer James Taylor and he preceded her in death on November 10, 2000.

Mrs. Taylor was an avid member of the Temple Baptist Church in Mason City, Iowa and member of Resurrection Baptist Church in Benton. She was a volunteer at the Gwen Wynn Senior Center for many years. She was always a servant to others and loved her Pastors.

Mrs. Taylor is survived be her:

Son: Kenneth Taylor

Daughter: Marinda Hornsby & husband John

One who was close as a Son: Jim Degen

Daughter-in-law: Sandra Taylor

Grandchildren: Russell James Taylor, Amie Jo Marken & husband Andrew, Rachael Cox & husband Jake, Sarah Marinda Hornsby, Shaina Christine Hornsby, J. T. Hornsby, Jacob Ian Hornsby, William Ray Taylor & Michael James Taylor

Several Great-Grandchildren and a Great-Great-Granddaughter

Mrs. Taylor was preceded in death by her Parents, Husband, Son-Jimmy Taylor and 2 Sisters-Wanda & June.

Visitation will be from 4:30 P.M. to 6:30 P.M. on Tuesday November 11th at the Resurrection Baptist Church in Benton with a Worship Service beginning at 6:30 P.M. with Pastor Paul Keller officiating. A Graveside service will be held at 11:30 A.M. on Wednesday, November 12th at the Masonic & Odd Fellows Cemetery in Benton with burial to follow.

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