Velda “Louise” Watkins, 84, passed away peacefully at her home on June 26, 2025, surrounded by her loving family. Born on November 30, 1940, Louise lived a full and spirited life devoted to the people that she cherished most.

She was preceded in death by her infant daughter, JoAnn; her siblings, Ray Dean Miner, David Miner, Richard Miner, and Floyd Miner; her parents, Gertrude and Joseph Leon Miner; and her husbands, Johnny Hess, Arley Taylor, and Bob Watkins.

Louise is survived by her devoted companion of many years, Anthony Donazio; her daughter, Janice Kniffen, and son-in-law, Reverend Michael Kniffen; and siblings Jeanie Wells, Mary Simshauser, Charles Miner, Joe Miner, and Donnie Miner. She also leaves behind her beloved granddaughters: Jennifer Whitaker (Bryan), JoAnn Atkins, Juliec Vauple (Keith), and Jackie Gans (Steve). Her legacy continues through her great-grandchildren-Jessica Potts, Seth Headlee, Hunter Sinclare, Andrew Burnett, Daniel Burnett, Samuel King, Christian Goldsberry, Isabella Brown, and Elijah Gans-and her great-great-grandchildren: Elizabeth Burnett, Vivienne Burnett, Marcus Burnett, Emaleigh Simmons, Heavenlee Sinclair, and Joshua Sinclair. She was also blessed with a large extended family of nieces, nephews, and generations of great- and great-great-nieces and nephews, all of whom she held close to her heart.

Louise had a tireless spirit and a heart that made space for everyone. She was known for her incredible work ethic, her unmatched cooking skills, and her warm hospitality qualities she brought to every restaurant she worked in throughout her life. A natural storyteller, Louise was always ready with a memory, a laugh, or lesson.

She will be remembered for the deep love she had for her family, her generosity, and the warmth she spread wherever she went.
Graveside services will be held at 3:00 P.M. on Sunday, June 29th at the Hams Grove Cemetery in Belle Rive. Those attending the service are requested to meet at the cemetery.
For more information or to send online condolences please visit www.johnstonfuneralhome.com

Sherry Lee Howe, 77, of Thompsonville Illinois passed away at her home on June 21, 2025.

She was born on July 6, 1947, to Jack and Pauline (Tinker) Griffin in Chicago, IL. On July 10, 1965, she married Robert James Howe and after 54 years of marriage he preceded her in death on February 19, 2020.

Sherry resided in Chicago until moving to the Chicago suburbs of Oak Lawn in 1968 and then Tinley Park in 1975, where she raised 3 children. Sherry worked 12 years for the US Postal Service 1982-1994. In 1994 Sherry, husband and two daughters moved to Northern Wisconsin where they operated an eight-cabin resort. In 2003, Sherry, husband and surviving daughter, relocated to Thompsonville Illinois.

Shortly after arriving in Southern Illinois, Sherry began her career as an associate at the Benton Walmart. She used her artistic skills in the bakery department to create thousands of beautiful cakes for the community. She was fondly known as “Sherry Berry” by her Walmart family and she retired in 2023.

Sherry was a loving mother and grandmother who cherished spending time with family and friends. Additionally, she enjoyed attending services at the Thompsonville First Baptist Church, participating in church-sponsored activities and making new friends. She loved spending time outdoors watching the wildlife. Sherry’s hobbies included: drawing and painting that she won awards for, crafts, puzzles, and playing bingo.

Sherry is survived by her children, Brett (Yolanda) Howe and Laura (Rob) Mercer; three grandchildren Mandy, Rob and Michael; her brother, Wayne Griffin and his family.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Jack and Pauline Griffin, her husband, Robert James Howe and her daughter, Tricia Howe.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Pate Funeral Home, 301 South Main Street, Benton, IL.
Per Sherry’s wishes, cremation will take place.

A memorial service will be held at a time and location to be announced.

Memorial donations may be made to Debra.org and will be accepted at the memorial or mailed directly to D.E.B.R.A at 1560 Central Ave, Suite 433, St Petersburg, Florida 33705 or at www.Debra.org

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

LaDonna Wertz Bryce, 86, of Herrin, passed away at 11:39 p.m., on Tuesday, June 24, 2025, at her home in Herrin, IL, surrounded by her family.

She was born on September 19, 1938, to Sterling and Eva (Arnold) Poole in West Frankfort, IL. LaDonna worked as a Franklin Williamson Human Services for State of Illinois. She married her first husband, James R. Wertz, and he preceded her in death, then she married Raymond Bryce, and he preceded her in death.

She was a member of Heartland Christian Church in Marion, IL and she was also a member of the Marion VFW Ladies Auxiliary.

LaDonna was a loving mother, grandmother and great-grandmother and enjoyed spending time with her family. In her spare time she loved sewing, quilting, cooking, baking, being a Hospice volunteer and reading.

LaDonna is survived by her loving children, James B. (Jill) Wertz, of Orient, IL, Larrie (Sherry) Wertz of DuQuoin, IL and Billie (Elva) Arview of Herrin, IL; eight grandchildren, Brittani (Matt) Warner, Jennifer (Tim) Mateycak, Tiffani (Josh Boswell) Ihrig, Matthew (Kenzie) Pflug, Madison (Austin) Schafer, Evan (Hannah) Arview, Emery Arview, Cori Arview; 12 great-grandchildren, Jaxon, Renny, Drasyn, Dexter, River, Freya, Remington, Lincoln, Winona, Gunner, Emilia and Elliston.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Sterling and Eva Poole, her husbands, James R. Wertz and Raymond Bryce, her brothers, Richard Poole, Robert Poole, Sterling Poole, Ronnie Poole and James Poole, her sisters, Faye Buiten Haus, Janet Hubbard and Sharon Williams and her grandson, Jeffery Conner.

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

Visitation will be held on Monday, June 30, 2025, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Pate Funeral Home, Benton, IL.

Funeral services will be held on Tuesday, July 1, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. at the Heartland Christian Church, 900 East Boyton Street in Marion, IL, with Pastor Greg Gibbs, officiating.

Following the funeral service, burial will take place in the Masonic and Odd Fellows Cemetery, Benton, IL., with Brother Glen Sanders, officiating.

Memorials may be made to the Marion VFW Post 1301 or Heartland Christian Church in Marion, IL and will be accepted at the funeral home.

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

Amanda C. Casey, 44, of Benton, passed away at 12:10 p.m., on Friday, June 13, 2025, at the Deaconess Gateway Hospital in Evansville, IN, surrounded by her family.
She was born on October 20, 1980, to Randy Casey and Judith (Mocaby) Camden in Marion, IL. Amanda worked as a cook for Burtons Cafe in Whittington, IL.

Amanda was a loving mother, daughter, sister and aunt and loved spending time with her family. She had a soft spot in her heart, taking in and caring for animals. She enjoyed dancing, fishing, painting and grilling. She also loved watching the St. Louis Cardinal Baseball games on television.

Amanda is survived by her loving son, Jakeb “Nate” Anders of Benton, IL; her father, Randy Casey; her sister, Apryl Sawyer and husband Chad; two brothers, Randy Casey, Jr. and Shane Casey; sister-in-law, Melissa Casey and step-sister, Talia Tedrow; six nieces, Kiara Coleman and husband, Chris, Alyssa Sawyer, Marissa Sawyer, Gabrielle Bunselmeyer and husband Matthew, Aubrionna Killip and husband Michael and Ebriessa Casey and fiancé Keegan; six nieces and nephews, Shaylyn Casey, Hayden Casey, Cason Casey, Jaden Tedrow, Taylor Tedrow and Bria Tedrow; a great-nephew, Breck Easley and two great-niece, Palmer Bunselmeyer and Serenity Coleman.

She was preceded in death by mother, Judith Lynette Camden.

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

Visitation will be held on Saturday, June 28, 2025, from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at Pate Funeral Home, Benton, IL.

Funeral services will be held n Saturday, June 28, 2025, at 12:00 p.m. at the Pate Funeral Home, Benton, IL, with Pastor Riley Brannan, officiating.

Per Amanda’s wishes cremation will take place.

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

Dakota was a radiant soul who brought joy and optimism to everyone he met. He was born in Mt. Vernon, Illinois on December 3, 1992, and passed away on June 20, 2025, at home.

He was a beloved brother, son, uncle, friend, and an aspiring pharmacist whose vibrant spirit left an indelible mark on the world around him. Dakota grew up with an infectious enthusiasm for life. His boundless positivity could light up any room, and his laughter was a melody that uplifted those around him.

Dakota was attending SIUE School of Pharmacy, working toward his Doctorate in Pharmacy and master’s in public health. As a student in pharmacy school, he was driven by a passion to help others, dedicating himself to his studies with a determination to make a difference in the lives of his future patients. His curiosity, intelligence, and commitment to his craft inspired his peers and professors alike. He was entering his third year of pharmacy school and received many awards and scholarships. He was consistently on the Dean’s List and was chosen by SIUE School of Pharmacy to be a tutor. Dakota was also employed by Walgreen’s Pharmacy in Marion as a Student Pharmacist, working part-time while he attended school. Dakota was planning his future with the love of his life, Bettye Starkey.

To his friends, Dakota was more than just a companion—he was a confidante, a cheerleader, and the life of every gathering. Whether he was cracking jokes, hanging out with friends, or simply lending a listening ear, he had a rare gift for making everyone feel valued and loved. His fun-loving nature turned ordinary moments into cherished memories, from family gatherings to late-night conversations filled with laughter. Dakota loved spending time with family and friends, listening to music, playing video games, and playing guitar. His dislikes included mayonnaise, ranch dressing, carrots, and any green vegetable. Dakota leaves behind a legacy of kindness, humor, and unwavering optimism.

He is survived by his parents Gary and Karen Tucker of Benton, two brothers, Wesley Tucker and Skyler Tucker (Jamie), nieces Shauna and Claire Tucker, nephews Keagen, Kollin and Jesse Tucker, as well as numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, life-partner Bettye Starkey, and a wide circle of friends who will forever carry his spirit in their hearts. He will be greatly missed by many.

Dakota’s wishes are to be cremated with a private family celebration of life at a future date.

The Leffler Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements.

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

Alma Gearldine “Gerry” Bridewell, 85, of Springfield, IL, formerly of Thompsonville, IL, passed away peacefully Friday, June 20, 2025, with her loving family by her side at The Villas Senior Living in Sherman, IL.

Funeral services will be held at the Leffler Funeral Home, 401 East Main St., Benton, Illinois, on Monday, June 30, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. with Brother Larry Miller officiating. Visitation will be from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. at the Leffler Funeral Home. Burial will follow at the Masonic & Odd Fellows Cemetery of Benton, IL.
Gerry was born on January 28, 1940, in Thompsonville, IL, daughter of Ruth (Sweet) and Deck Eubanks. She was united in marriage to Bob Bridewell on May 3, 1957. He preceded her in death on October 18, 2022.

Gerry attended Thompsonville High School. She then worked at the Joan Clair factory as a seamstress. This began a lifelong talent for sewing not only clothes for herself and family, but beautiful, original quilts that she designed and gave away as gifts.

Working together, Gerry and her husband, Bob, operated Bridewell’s Body Shop and Auto Sales. She kept the books and did clerical duties but also jumped in and worked side by side in the shop. She taped off cars to be painted, mixed car paint and washed and detailed cars when they were ready. She was equally adept at cooking and provided delicious meals to all working in the garage. She was famous for her chicken and dumplings, ham and beans, served with all the fixings.

Gerry enjoyed being outdoors, she preferred being outside to in, whether riding motorcycles – at one point owning one – or just being outdoors, enjoying nature and caring for her animals. She had many cats, dogs, cows, and sheep, and loved her treasured horse, Fancy, and beloved dog Gracie. Her biggest joy was becoming a “granny,” she loved spending time and spoiling her only granddaughter. Which later blessed her with three great grandchildren who called her “Gan Gan.”

Before moving to Springfield to live near family, Gerry worked at Dyel’s grocery store in Benton. She worked in the deli and as a checker. She liked visiting with her customers and really enjoyed her work. She was a member of the UFCW union. In earlier years, Gerry was a member of Carter’s Temple Congregational Christian Church in Thompsonville, IL.

In addition to her dear husband Bob of 65 years, she was preceded in death by her parents, Deck and Ruth Eubanks, siblings Phyllis Canada, Billy Don Eubanks, Claudia Wilson, and Charles Eubanks.

Gerry will be lovingly remembered as a wonderful mother, grandmother, and great grandmother. She freely shared her love and beautiful spirit with all she knew.
Those left to cherish her memory include her daughter, Jaye Bridewell Miller, a granddaughter, Shannon (Nick) Bellini and three great grandchildren, Pvt. Seiger Dunston, Gianna Jaye and Bianca Rose Bellini and nephews, a niece, and cousins. A special friend, Janet Higginson, Benton, and her friend and roommate at the Villas, Joan Huntley.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to the Villas Senior Care Community and Gentiva Hospice Care.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital and may be accepted at the funeral home.
To leave online condolences to the family, or to share memories of Gerry, go to www.lpfuneralhome.com.

She beautifully reflects God’s creativity, she nurtures those around her, to reason and reflect, to confidently declare the goodness of God and the wonders of his word (from Genesis 1)

Nancy Launius, 75, of Benton, IL, passed away Friday, June 20th, 2025, after a brief illness.

She was born on March 11th, 1950, in Decatur, IL, the third of six children, to Dean and Faye Sentel (Corn). While still in high school, she eloped with her childhood sweetheart, Darrel Launius, on October 13, 1967, in Elizabethtown, IL, enjoying almost 58 years of married life together.

Nancy was a loving wife, mother, and grandmother, and took immense pride in her children and grandchildren. She enjoyed watching figure skating, reading, and puzzles of all kinds, and amassed several collections, including vintage dishes and Barbie dolls.

She is survived by her husband Darrel Launius and their three children and spouses, along with five grandchildren; John and Tammy Launius of Pinckneyville, IL; Christie Launius and Susan Rensing of Manhattan, KS; Amy Launius and Jim Reith of Crestwood, MO; grandchildren Preston Launius (fiancée Madison Bock); Pearson Launius (fiancée Jillian Shaneyfelt); Porter Launius-Rensing; Oxford Reith; Willa Reith; brothers Bob “Hot Rod” Sentel of Benton, IL; Bill (Julie) Sentel of Macedonia, IL; and Kenny (Roberta) Sentel of Lake of Egypt, IL.

She was preceded in death by her nephew Joshua Sentel; her parents; two sisters, Virginia “Gigi” Johnson, and Ruth Sentel Matyi; and brother-in-law Donnie Johnson.
A Celebration of Life visitation will be from 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. Tuesday, June 24, 2025, at the Leffler Funeral Home of Benton.

The family prefers Memorial Contributions and may be made in memory of Nancy to the St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital and will be accepted at the funeral home.

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

Christi Lynn Kirkman, age 74, of Benton, passed away at 9:50 a.m. Wednesday, June 18, 2025, at Stonebridge Memory Care of Mt. Vernon, IL.

Christi was born on May 14, 1951, in Christopher, Illinois; the daughter of Alva Bowlin, Jr. and Jessie Ellen (Lunsford) Bowlin. She married Dwayne Kirkman on October 3, 1970, and he survives.

She was a member of the St. Joseph Catholic Church, and was a former Coder at the Franklin Hospital, until she retired to spend more time with her family.
She was a member of the Eastern Star and the Benton Elks.

Christi enjoyed playing golf, knitting, and traveling. Her family said she was a great gardener and cookie baker, and that she loved spending time with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Surviving is her loving husband of 54 years, Dwayne Kirkman of Benton; two sons: Jonathan Dwayne Kirkman and Korby Eugene Kirkman both of Benton; a granddaughter Kailey and husband Jamey Fowlkes, a grandson Zackry Kirkman and fiancée Katie Ramsey; seven great-grandchildren: Zaedyn McCain, Roxzyn McCain, Lynlee McCain, Tyler Fowlkes, Cailyn Fowlkes, Brynix Fowlkes and Harmyn Fowlkes; a sister-in-law Gay Bowlin of Benton; a niece and nephew Adena Bowlin Clark and husband Jeff; very special friends “The Friday Night Group” and many other friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents: Alva “Bud” and Jessie Bowlin; and a brother Cyril Eugene Bowlin.
Private Funeral Services were held at 1:00 p.m. Saturday, June 21, 2025, at the Leffler Funeral Home of Benton, IL, with Rev. Jesse Hinds officiating. Burial followed in the Masonic & Odd Fellows Cemetery of Benton, IL.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Benton Ministerial Alliance Food Pantry, or the SSM Hospice, or the Franklin County Animal Shelter; and will be accepted at the Leffler Funeral Home of Benton.
To give condolences online to the family, or to share memories of Christi, visit www.lpfuneralhome.com.

Thomas Todd Whittington, age 52, of Benton, passed away at 8:26 p.m. Friday, June 20, 2025, at the Franklin Hospital Emergency Room of Benton, IL.

Todd was born on September 7, 1972, in Benton, Illinois; the son of Loria Thomas Whittington and Sue Alice (McKean) Whittington. He married the former Lorrie Ann Hale on March 13, 2010, and she survives.

He received an associate’s degree in GIS and GPS from Hocking College of Nelsonville, Ohio. He was employed as a Project Manager with Phoenix Logistics and Investors.
Todd loved his family and especially time spent with his parents and grandchildren. He also enjoyed playing golf and RC Cars. His family said he was always there to help and assist others.

He loved his wife Lorrie, and was a great Dad and an excellent Pa Pa.
Surviving is his loving wife Lorrie Whittington of Benton, IL; his parents Tom and Sue Whittington of Benton, IL; Lorrie’s children that he loved dearly: Amanda Lynn Prince and husband Taylor of Madisonville, KY, Bryan Dwayne Walker and Dakota of Christopher, IL; two grandchildren: Hailey Jo Prince and Mylah Rose Walker; sister-in-law Melissa Valleroy and husband Dave of Benton, IL; special friends John Owens, Billy Owens and John Zinzilieta.
He was preceded in death by his maternal grandparents Eugene and Virginia McKean, paternal grandparents Loria and Pearl Whittington, father-in-law and mother-in-law Gary and Donna Hale.

Graveside Funeral Services will be held at 11:00 a.m. Wednesday, June 25, 2025, at the Shiloh Cemetery of Whittington, IL, with Rev. Mark Minor officiating. Friends are asked to go directly to the cemetery. The Leffler Funeral Home of Benton is in charge of the services.
Memorial contributions may be made to the American Heart Association or the Benton Ministerial Alliance Food Pantry; and will be accepted at the Graveside Service on Wednesday.

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

Larry Gene Tate was born in Steel City on August 24, 1945, and passed away on June 19, 2025. He was 79 years old.

Funeral Services will be held at 11:00 a.m. Monday, June 23, 2025, at the Leffler Funeral Home, with Rev. Rick McClintock officiating. Burial will follow in the Masonic and Odd Fellows Cemetery of Benton. Visitation will be from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Sunday evening and from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. on Monday at the Leffler Funeral Home of Benton.

He was the fifth of six kids born to Clarence and Beulah (Cole) Tate. With the exception of his 6 years served in the United States Army Reserves, he was a life-long resident of Franklin County. In his early years he worked at Page’s Grocery Store and later at Petroff’s before becoming a State Meat Inspector for 35+ years. He retired from the State in 2000.

Larry loved the outdoors and was an avid quail hunter. He spent most of his vacation time every year chasing Bob Whites. In his later years he could always be found at one of Benton’s coffee shops or town gossip halls.
He is survived by two sons Jason & Lisa Tate of West Frankfort, IL, and Andy & Megan Tate of Herrin, IL, two grandkids Austin Tate and Madison Tate both of West Frankfort, a sister Alice Schablowsky and husband Rick of Mulkeytown, IL, and several nieces and nephews.

Larry was preceded in death by his parents, two brothers Clarence Tate and Charles “Bud” Tate, two sisters Beulah Overturf and Marie Williams, and a nephew Tom Tate.
Memorial contributions may be made to the American Parkinson Disease Association and will be accepted at the funeral home.
To leave online condolences to the family, or to share memories of Larry, go to www.lpfuneralhome.com.