Glena Piper was born on October 1, 1933, to Stanley Ayer Cockrum and Ruby Maud Cockrum (Harrison) on a farm in
Sesser, Illinois.

She was the oldest of seven children and grew up milking cows, feeding chickens, gathering eggs, and helping
care for her siblings. She attended elementary and high school in Sesser, where she and her future husband were crowned
king and queen.

After graduation, Glena and Robert “Bob” moved to Chicago where better work opportunities were available. They were
married for 73 years until his death in 2025. Glena was an excellent seamstress and worked in two sewing factories.
Glena, Bob, and their children settled in Rend City in 1968. Prior to retirement, Bob and Glena enjoyed traveling around the country to IBEW worksites.

Glena tirelessly researched genealogy and shared her findings with family and friends. She also enjoyed sewing, knitting,
gardening, and camping with Bob all over the country. In later life, she found joy searching her computer for the latest news
and completing her word search puzzles. Glena is survived by her sons Robert E. Piper of Zeigler, David R.
Piper of Benton, daughters Linda D. Laird of Florida, and Sandra J. Hicks of Tennessee. She is also survived by her grandsons
Shane Piercy and Dustin Laird, granddaughters Brandy Thompson and Heather Glidewell, great grandson Owen
Glidewell, great granddaughters Carrie and Marissa Glidewell, Brianna Thompson, and Piper and Kenzi Piercy. She also has
two great-great grandchildren, Mavie Ray Glidewell and recently added Noa Jean Glidewell.

Glena is also survived by her sister Ruth Ann Miner, sisters-in-law Doris Cockrum and Ellen Cockrum, and several nieces and
nephews.
Glena was preceded in death by her parents Stanley and Maud Cockrum, husband Robert Piper, son Timmie L. Piper, grandson
Benjamin Hicks, brothers Glen, Noble, Floyd, William, and Robert Cockrum.

Funeral services will be on Sunday November 8, 2026 at 1:00 PM at the Brayfield-Gilbert Funeral Home in Sesser with Pastor Kirk Packer officiating. Visitation will be on Sunday from 12:00 PM until the time of the service at 1:00PM at the funeral home. Burial will be at Maple Hill Cemetery in Sesser.

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

Laura Lorraine (Slayton) Young, 73, of Benton, IL, passed away Sunday, November 1, 2026, surrounded by her loved ones.

She was born on July 18, 1953, in Madison County, Illinois, the daughter of Freeman and Viola (Stricker) Slayton. She married Michael Young on February 13, 1999, and he survives.

Laura had a heart with room for everyone. Her capacity to love and care for others seemed to have no limit. Whoever needed her, she showed up, and she gave of herself without ever keeping score. She was one of the strongest people her family has ever known, and that strength was always in service of the people she loved.

That same tender heart extended to every animal that crossed her path. She had an incredible love for animals, and no creature in need ever went without her kindness.

Her family was her greatest accomplishment in life.

She is survived by her loving husband of 27 years, Michael Young; her daughters, Amy Shelton, Shelby McCoy, and Shannon Young Carpenter; her sons, Bill (Tracy) McCoy, Keith (Heather) Young, and Erik Young; her grandchildren, Emma, Claire, Jake, Hannah, Lyla, Max, Quinn, Lincoln, April, Sydnie (Dylan), Jennifer, Kim, Kailyn (Hunter), and Jaylee; her sister, Patricia Kash; her brother, John Slayton; and several great-grandchildren, nephews, nieces, and close friends.

Laura was preceded in death by her parents, Freeman and Viola Slayton; her brothers, Bill, Don, and Bob Slayton; and her nephew, Donnie Ray Slayton.

Visitation will be held from 8:30 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. Thursday, November 5, 2026, at the St. Joseph Catholic Church of Benton.

Mass of the Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 a.m. Thursday, November 5, 2026, at the St. Joseph Catholic Church of Benton, with Father Urban Osuji officiating. Burial will follow in the Denning Cemetery of West Frankfort. Family and friends are invited to return to the church for a meal.

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

Memorial contributions may be made to the Southern Illinois Cancer Institute of Carterville and will be accepted at the services.

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

Howard Glen Hargett, age 90, of Mount Vernon, formerly of Thompsonville, IL, passed away at 9:16 a.m., Saturday, October 31, 2026, at SSM Good Samaritan Hospital in Mount Vernon, Illinois.

Glen was born on June 12, 1936, to Olen Sid and Lucille (Black) Hargett in Thompsonville, IL. He worked as a contractor in the construction field. He married the former Linda Mae Zimmerman, and she preceded him in death.

Glen was a Veteran of the United States Army, where he served in Germany.

He was a member of the Community of Christ Church in Thompsonville, IL.

Glen loved working on the house. He always stayed busy and always thinking of new projects to do to the house. He loved being independent but most importantly, he thoroughly enjoyed spending time with his family.

Glen is survived by his loving children, Robert Hargett, Scott Hargett and Katherine Hargett; his brother, David Hargett; his sister, Nora Baney; seven grandchildren and many great-grandchildren.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Olen Sid and Lucille Hargett; his wife, Linda Mae Hargett; his son, Patrick Hargett and an infant sister.

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

Per Glen’s wishes, cremation will take place and there will be no services.

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

Jeffery Kevin Perry, 65, of West Frankfort, peacefully went home to be with his Lord and Savior on October 30, 2026, at 7:56 p.m. Surrounded by the love of his family, Jeffery left this life knowing how deeply he was loved and how greatly he would be missed.

Jeffery was born on November 5, 1960, in St. Charles, Illinois, to Clarence Perry and Shirley (Rodgers) Perry. On December 5, 2002, he married Melissa Kathalynas in West Frankfort. Their marriage was filled with love, devotion, treasured memories, and a shared commitment to the family they held so dear.

To Jeffery, family was one of God’s greatest gifts. He was a devoted husband, a loving Dad, and a proud Popa. His greatest joy came from being surrounded by those he loved, sharing laughter, celebrating life’s special moments, and creating memories that his family will carry in their hearts forever. His love was steady, his faith was strong, and his presence brought comfort to those fortunate enough to know him.

Jeffery is survived by his beloved wife, Melissa Perry; his children, Justin (Sherry) Perry of Marion, Stacey (Josh) Petro of West Frankfort, and Tony (Andi) Bowers of West Frankfort; his grandchildren, Alyssa Perry (Jordan Parola), McKayla Perry, Giovanni DeRossett (Nevaeh), Bentley DeRossett, Sloane Bowers, Piper and Seiger Petro, Matthew (Asami) Jones, and Lukas (Kami) Jones; and his great-grandchildren, Luxton and Isla Parola, Evalynn Eubanks, Kaizen DeRossett, Malakia Jones, and two more precious great-grandchildren on the way.
He is also survived by his father, Clarence Perry; his siblings, Paula (Scott) Maze, Pam Perry, and James (Carol) Perry; his brothers-in-law, Mike (Linda) Kathalynas and Marty (Rhonda) Kathalynas; and many cherished nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.

Jeffery was welcomed into eternal rest by those who passed before him, including his mother, Shirley Perry; his sister, Rhonda; his father-in-law and mother-in-law, Gene and Sue Kathalynas; his nephews, Mike and Marty Kathalynas and niece Felicia Doll.

Although his family now feels the deep sorrow of his absence, they find comfort in knowing that Jeffery is at peace in the presence of his Lord. He leaves behind a beautiful legacy of faith, devotion, and unconditional love. His voice, his laughter, and the love he gave so freely will remain forever in the hearts of his family and all who knew him.

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

Jeffery’s life was a blessing, his memory a treasure, and the love he shared will live on forever.

Celebration of life will be held Thursday, November 5, 2026, at 5:00 p.m., at Immanuel Baptist Church, 516 N. Main St., Benton, Illinois; with Pastor Kirk Kay officiating. Visitation will be held from 3:30 p.m. to 5:00 p.m., at the church.

In lieu of flowers, those wishing to honor Jeffery’s memory may make a contribution to the family. Your love, prayers, and support are sincerely appreciated.

Online condolences may be expressed online at www.patefh.com

John David Harvey, 85, of Sesser, Illinois, passed away peacefully at his home on Sunday, November 1, 2026.

John was born in Sesser, Illinois, on March 15, 1941, the son of John Calvin Harvey and Laura Edna (Taylor) Harvey. He married Mary Ann (Vowell) Harvey on June 17, 1967 and she survives of Sesser. John is survived by his wife, Mary Ann Harvey; his children, Catherine Ann Harvey of Florida, and John Robert Harvey of Sesser; one brother Robert Taylor Harvey of Salem and one grandson Dale Lee Harvey. John was preceded in death by his parents, John Calvin Harvey and Laura Enna (Taylor) Harvey; one son Calvin Eugene Harvey and one sister Janice Kay Curry.

John’s wishes were to be cremated with no services.

Beverly Jean Basso, 95, of Sesser, Illinois, passed away peacefully on Friday, October 30, 2026, at Herrin Hospital.

Beverly was born on November 21, 1930, in Valier, Illinois, to Robert Gulley and Gipsie (Bledsoe) Gulley. She was united in marriage to Donald Richard Basso on April 16, 1949. He preceded her in death on July 15, 2023.

Beverly earned her bachelor’s degree and dedicated her professional life to education as a school teacher. She will be remembered for the love and care she gave to her family and for the many lives she touched throughout her years.

Beverly is survived by her children, Rick (Sandy) Basso of Sesser and Jeanne (Chuck) Wright of Valier; five grandchildren; 14 great-grandchildren; and one great-great-grandchild. She was preceded in death by her husband, Donald Richard Basso; her parents, Robert and Gipsie Gulley; one daughter, Karen Shurtz and five siblings.

Funeral services for Beverly Jean Basso will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Saturday November 7, 2027 at the Brayfield-Gilbert Funeral Home in Sesser, Illinois, with Pastor Eli Schoenbaechler officiating. Visitation will be held from 11:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m. on Saturday at the funeral home. Interment will follow at Maple Hill Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers donations can be made to Eternal Friends of Christ, Residential Hospice or Sesser First Responders. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home.

Naomi Irene Burnett, age 94, of Benton; passed away at 2:20 a.m. Thursday, October 29, 2026, at the Helia Healthcare of Benton.

Funeral Services will be held at 1:00 p.m. Monday, November 2, 2026, at the Leffler Funeral Home of Benton, with Rev. Harol Whitlock officiating, with burial to follow in the Masonic and Odd Fellows Cemetery of Benton. Visitation will be from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Monday, November 2, 2026, at the Leffler Funeral Home.

Naomi was born on August 25, 1932, in Benton, Illinois, the daughter of Clarence McDonald and Opal Marie (Rose) McDonald. She married Leonard Albert “Spike” Burnett on November 24, 1956, and he preceded her in death on December 1, 2014.

Mrs. Burnett retired from Benton High School where she worked as a cook. She also formerly worked as an elevator operator at the Wood Building on the Public Square.
She enjoyed sewing, looking at family pictures, crocheting, working word search puzzles, visiting with her neighbors, eating ice cream, and drinking root beer. Naomi also loved her flowers, strawberry plants and her pet birds, dogs, and cats.

Her family said she never got mad and was always smiling. She was a member of the Church of Christ in West City and enjoyed attending church.

She is survived by her loving children: Danny “Smiley” Burnett and wife Diane of Benton, Illinois, Karen (Burnett) Hancock and husband Jeff of West Frankfort, Illinois, twin daughters who were born on her birthday, Kathy (Burnett) Hill and husband Tom of Benton, Illinois, Judy (Burnett) Jordan and husband Allen of Bethalto, Illinois; grandchildren including: Dedra Rowe and husband Brent of Benton, Illinois, Danessa Burnett of West Frankfort, Illinois, Dylan Burnett and wife Makila “Gina” of Buckner, Illinois, Hunter Hancock of West Frankfort, Illinois, Shawn Hill and Kyle Hill both of Benton, Illinois, Ashley Santos and husband Marco of Lantana, Texas, great-grandchildren: Trenton Rowe, Zachary Rowe, Brenae Rowe, Orion Mandrell, Monroe Moschino, Mason Moschino, Everest Burnett, one to arrive in 2027, and Jordan Santos; her best friend Shirley Wilson at Heritage Woods of Benton, Illinois; and several nieces and nephews.
She is preceded in death by father Clarence McDonald, her mother Opal Marie (Rose) McDonald Eubanks, her husband Leonard Burnett, and two sisters: Norma Simpson and Pauline Roberson.

The family would like to express their sincere gratitude to the staff at Franklin Hospital, especially the ER staff, staff on the Med-Surg Floor, and the Physical Therapy Department, the staff at Heritage Woods, Helia Healthcare and Residential Hospice. Words cannot say how much each of you are appreciated.
To give condolences online to the family, or to share memories of Naomi, visit www.lpfuneralhome.com.

Virginia Mae Wheeler, born November 21, 1955, passed away on October 25, with the love of her life, Michael Matyi, by her side.

Virginia was a caring and loving woman who never met a stranger. She had a passion for gardening and plants, loved all animals, and especially enjoyed her two new cats. Her favorite moments were spent on the farm with Michael, taking side-by-side rides and enjoying the life they shared.

Virginia was preceded in death by her parents, Edward and Barbara Austin, and her beloved mother-in-law, Marguerite Matyi, whom she adored.

She is survived by the love of her life, Michael Matyi.

In keeping with Virginia’s wishes, she will be cremated and laid to rest on the farm she loved so dearly. There will be no services.
Those wishing to honor Virginia’s memory may make a donation to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.
Virginia will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her. Her kind heart, love for animals, and the friendships she made along the way will never be forgotten.
For more information go to our website www.gilbertfuneralhomes.com

Sarah Pristia Winemiller Cardin, 91, of Benton passed away on Tuesday evening October 20, 2026 at Helia HealthCare Center in Benton.

She was born in Franklin County, Illinois on August 8, 1935 the daughter of Joseph & Anna (Issler) Pristia.

She was married to Sherman Cardin and he preceded her in death on March 5, 2008.

Mrs. Cardin is survived by her:

5 Children:
Margaret Balota
Sharon Thomas & Husband Garry
Linda Smith & husband Tom
Lisa Weston & Bobby
Michelle Pierce & husband Ron

Step-children: Tina Melvin, Robert Cardin, Myra Hosick and Sandy Collins

Grandchildren: Tommy, Christi, Robbie, Timmy, Jason, William, Cliff, Amanda, Tommy, Susan, Jacklyn, Kayla

Great-Grandchildren: Cassie, Emily, Little Tommy, Abraham, Hannah, Jordan, Tori, Alivia, Ethan, Avery, Samantha, Hayden, Logan, Harper, Everett, Blake, Allyson, Sean, Andrew

Mrs. Cardin was preceded in death by her Parents, 1 Son-Robert Winemiller, Daughter-Elizabeth Chesley, 3 Infant Children, Granddaughter-Kimberly, 3 Infant Grandchildren, 2 Infant Great-Grandchildren, Husband Sherman Cardin, former Husband Bob Winemiller, Siblings-Johnny, Hannah, Bertha, Eula, Edwin & Ervin, Ann, Joseph, Step-Children-Bill Cardin & Carrie Cardin.

Funeral services will be held at 2:00 P.M. on Friday, October 23rd at the Morton & Johnston Funeral Home in Benton with Rev. William Hottensen officiating. Burial will be in the Logan Church of God Cemetery in Logan. Visitation will be from 12:00 P.M. to 2:00 P.M. on Friday at the funeral home.

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

Michael Robert Jones, born July 11, 1944 passed away on October 19,2026 in DuQuoin Il.

Mike was born to Jesse (Sonny) Robert Jones and Mildred Mae Grizzell. Mike was employed at inland steel and later retired from Kerr McGee coal mine.

After retirement, he enjoyed fishing and spending time with friends and family. He was a proud father, grandfather and great grandfather, especially doting on Wade, Vincent and Lola whom all had a special place in his heart.

He is survived by sons, Michael Todd Jones of Murfreesboro, TN and Eric (Lisa) Jones of Valier, IL; grandchildren: Bailee and Tate Kerley, Beau and Alysha Jones, Kasen Jones, and Bryce and Madeline Jones; great grandchildren: Wade Kerley, Vincent Jones, and Lola Jones.

Mike’s wishes were to be cremated with private services to be held at a later date.

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