Lana Kaye Wright, a resident of Clarksville, TN (formerly of Williamson County) age 74, passed away on August 3, 2026, at Riverview Post Acute.

She was born on July 15, 1952, in Herrin, Illinois to Howard and Geneva (Miller) Pentecost. She was a 1970 graduate of Marion (Illinois) HighSchool and attended John A Logan College.

She enjoyed genealogy and volunteered for the Tennessee Genealogy Indexing Project as an indexer of old Tennessee newspapers.

She is survived by her son, Joshua (Laura) Wright, of Cedar Hill, Tennessee and her son, Benji Wright, of Herrin, Illinois. She is also survived by her grandchildren, Braxton Wright and Karigan Wright of Carterville, Illinois and Eva Lu Wright of Cedar Hill, Tennessee.

She was preceded in death by her daughter, Sarah Wright and daughter-in-law, Shea Wright.

Graveside services will be held at 11:00 a.m., on Wednesday, August 12, 2026, at the Masonic and Oddfellows Cemetery, Benton, Illinois.

Memorials may be made to CrossPoint Church, Nashville, Tennessee or to the Arthritis Foundation.

Condolences may be expressed online at www.patefh.com

Deborah Faye Summers, age 75, of Mt. Vernon, Illinois, passed away at 3:15 p.m. Wednesday, August 5, 2026, at the SSM Health Good Samaritan Hospital.

Deborah was born on June 11, 1951, in Benton, Illinois, the daughter of Bill Burnett and Helen (Cherkosky) Burnett. On April 17, 1970, she married David Edwin Summers, and he preceded her in death on June 13, 1976.

Visitation will be from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Monday, August 10, 2026, at the Leffler Funeral Home of Benton. A Celebration of Life Service will follow at 7:00 p.m. Monday, August 10, 2026, at the Leffler Funeral Home of Benton, with Rev. Mark Minor officiating. Private family burial will be at a future date.
She retired from retail sales where she enjoyed working in the jewelry department at J.C. Penney’s. Debbie was a member of the B.P.O.E. Lodge #819 of Mt. Vernon, Illinois. She also attended Whittington Church.

Deborah enjoyed shopping, spending time with friends, but mostly she enjoyed attending and watching her grandkids perform.

Surviving is her loving daughter Deidra Sanchez and husband Aron of Benton, Illinois, three grandchildren: Macy, Dayton, and Seager Sanchez all of Benton; two sisters: Shelah Korris Ring of Mt. Vernon, Illinois, Julie Burnett of Herrin, Illinois, a brother Scott Douglas Burnett of Mt. Vernon, Illinois, and several nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, and two brothers: Billy Burnett and Jeff Burnett.
To give condolences online to the family or to share memories of Debbie, visit www.lpfuneralhome.com.

Scottie Kate Towers, the beloved infant daughter of Jake and Madison (Allardyce) Towers was born and passed away on August 4th at Memorial Hospital in Carbondale, IL.

Even though Scottie Kate was with us for a short time, she touched so many lives with love and in turn, was loved by so many. It’s our hope the memory and love from Scottie Kate will help fill the void left in our hearts today and for all time to come.

Scottie Kate is survived by her loving parents and big brother golden doodle, Harry. Her grandparents Shawn and Kristy (Herrin) Allardyce, Richard and Jeanette (Kampwerth) Towers, great-grandparents Sue Herrin, Greg and Barb Kasak and Dale Allardyce. Additionally, Scottie Kate is survived by her Aunt Victoria (Devin) and many great aunts, great uncles and cousins.

Great-grandparents Rich Herrin, Joe and Agnes Kampwerth and Gene and Maxine Towers have welcomed Scottie Kate into their loving arms, in Heaven.

Scottie Kate will be laid to rest next to her Nana Maxine at Harrison’s Cemetery, with a private funeral service.

In lieu of flowers or memorials, Scottie Kate’s family asks that you share love and kindness with one another, and hold your children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren a little tighter and longer.

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.