Donna Pratt of Marion passed away on Monday, September 8, 2025 at her home. She was born in Sesser, IL to Lucille (Owens) Eubanks and Arthur Eubanks.

Lucille and Arthur divorced early in Donna’s life and she spent years devoted to, supporting and caring for her mother who lived with her until her passing. Donna was the wife of Arhtur Pratt with whom she shared 65 years of marriage. Donna was born and raised in Southern Illinois and spent most of her life there with the exception of 10 years in Waukegan, IL where she met Arthur who was in the US Navy and stationed at the Naval base there.

After their marriage they spent a short time in Rhode Island before returning to Southern Illinois. Several years after her return Donna began a successful career in real estate. She was a managing broker, managed several offices, and was one of the area’s top agents during her 40+ years in the business. Donna enjoyed vacationing in Florida, especially Marco Island to where she made several visits.

She was a devoted and loving wife and mother, adored her children and grandchildren and enjoyed spending time with them. Donna is survived by her husband, Arthur, her son David Pratt of Marion, her daughter Cathy (Craig) Marx of Des Peres, MO, and grandchildren Owen and Elise Marx. She is also survived by and was very close to many of the cousins of her mother’s brother and sisters along with their children and grandchildren.

Her wishes were to have a private family graveside gathering at Maple Hill Cemetery in Sesser, IL to be scheduled at a later date. Any donations in her honor can be made to her granddaughter’s high school volleyball team: https://raise.snap.app/donate/parkway-south-girls-volleyball-2025/12811422?share_type=email_0 .

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

Charles Curtis “Curt” Gibbs, age 72, of Thompsonville, peacefully passed away on Sunday, September 7, 2025, at his home.

He was born on June 1, 1953, in Rend City, Illinois; the son of Charles C. Gibbs and Ruby Isabelle (Winters) Gibbs. He married the former Sandra Renee Fletcher on February 4, 2006, and she preceded him in death on January 4, 2016.

Curt enjoyed working as a truck driver. He also formerly worked for Kirby Risk Electrical Supply and worked as a John Deere mechanic. He also enjoyed working on lawn mowers and tractors.

He is survived by Sandy’s two children: Lisa McClerren and husband Russell of Thompsonville, Illinois, and William Jack Chaffin of Herrin, Illinois; eleven grandchildren; eighteen great-grandchildren; two sisters: Ellen L. Shockley and husband Paul of Benton, Illinois, Thelma L. Overton of Benton, Illinois; and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, wife, a sister Ruby Faye Gibbs, great-grandson Cooper William Turner.
Funeral services will be held at 1:00 p.m. Wednesday, September 10, 2025, at the Leffler Funeral Home of Benton, Illinois, with Rev. Matthew Shook officiating. Burial will follow in the Pleasant Hill Cemetery of Thompsonville. Visitation will be held from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Wednesday at the Leffler Funeral Home of Benton.
To leave online condolences to the family, or to share memories of Curt, visit www.lpfuneralhome.com.

Denise Jeann’e Ragsdale, age 67, of West Frankfort, passed away Sunday, August 31, 2025, at the SSM St. Mary’s Hospital of Richmond Heights, Missouri.

Denise was born on May 11, 1958, in Hammond, Indiana; the daughter of Sylvester Dean Steinberger and Carolyn Louise (Schimpf) Steinberger. She married Alan Ragsdale, and he preceded her in death on May 10, 1998.

Her working career consisted of being a laborer at a factory and she also was a well-known dog breeder of Southern Illinois. People would come from all around and even from Missouri to get her Yorkshire Terrier pups. She also did dog agility training.

She attended the Monroe Street Church of God until its closure.

Mrs. Ragsdale enjoyed spending time with her family.

Surviving are three children: Carrie Seagle Holly of West Frankfort, Illinois, Jason Seagle of Carterville, Illinois, and Ross Ragsdale of West Frankfort, Illinois; grandchildren including: Machaela Holly, Lucas Holly, Herschel Seagle, Peyton Seagle, Emma Seagle, Noah Seagle and Alexis Ragsdale; great-grandchildren: Meracia Labrie and Mathayus Labrie; three siblings: Sylvester Dean Steinberger, III and wife Brandie of Benton, Illinois, Walter Steinberger of Benton, Illinois, Aaron Steinberger and wife Heather of West Frankfort, Illinois; several nieces and nephews; and two special friends: Joseph Holly and David Rice.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, two sisters Susan Steinberger and Camille Steinberger, a great-grandson Madeious Labrie, and her favorite person and Nana Bertha Schimpf.

Her wishes are to be cremated.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held at a future date.

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

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

Sara Sue Vancil aged 84, of Benton, Illinois, passed away peacefully on September 5, 2025. In accordance with her wishes, she will be cremated with no public services held. Arrangements have been entrusted to Leffler Funeral Home of Benton.

Born on October 10, 1940, in Kansas City, Missouri, Sara was the daughter of Virgil Bassett and Nadine (Perry) Bassett. She married Walter Tom Richardson, who preceded her in death. She was also predeceased by her parents, her son D.T. Richardson, and a brother Jerry Basset.

Sara is lovingly remembered by her son Robert Richardson and his wife Lisa; her two grandsons, Robbie Tom Wyant and Donald Thomas “Tommy” Richardson, Jr.; two great-grandchildren; her sister Laura May; daughter-in-law Christine Richardson; and her cherished dogs, Buffy and Lucy.

Sara worked as a bartender at Sandy’s Bar and Grill in Benton, where she formed many lasting friendships. She found joy in the outdoors, embracing fishing, camping, and playing computer games, often sharing laughter and playful competition with her friends and family.

Sara’s legacy is carried on by those who knew and loved her. Her memory is cherished in every story shared and every act of generosity inspired by her example. While her presence will be deeply missed, her spirit endures in the hearts of those she loved.
To leave online condolences to the family, or to share memories of Sara; go to www.lpfuneralhome.com.

Christy Rae Gartner, 65, of Mulkeytown, passed away on Tuesday, September 2, 2025, at her residence.

She was born on May 17, 1960, to Jerry Rae Kerr and Jeannine A. Smith in Herrin, IL.

On May 24, 1978, she married Kurt Gartner who preceded her in death on December 6, 2024. Their love story spanned more than 46 years, with a reliability and consistency that had a positive impact on the people around them. Theirs was a love rooted in honesty and dedication.

Christy’s place of faith was found while in her swing in the back yard, enjoying nature and overlooking the pond. She was known for her soft spoken, gentle and understanding personality, an old soul. Christy was a loving mother, an adoring grandma, and a truly committed wife and daughter. She was also known for her soft spot for animals, and her love for the family pets. She often talked about favorites like Tommy, Pheobe, Stinky, Lucky and Harley. Christy loved to read a variety of books, with a small library of titles downloaded on her Kindle. She also enjoyed crafts and arts, with a specialty in pencil, but a talent across mediums. She took special pride in creating personal and meaningful keepsakes. She was incredibly intelligent, quick-witted and had a fun but dark sense of humor, specializing in sarcasm. One of her favorite retirement hobbies was taking care of the property and teaching her grandchildren about the art of a fire.

She is survived by her loving daughter, Rachel (Bart Bradley) Gartner of Benton, IL; four grandchildren, Hudson, Abby & Isabella Gartner and Fallyn Sprowls; brother, Darrin Kerr; uncle, Carl Smith; nieces and nephews, Hanna Gartner and Family, Kyle and Chelbie Mitchell and Family, Ian and Sam Perry, Jacob Bowling, Colin and Aiden Herron-Kerr; Karen Weaver; and best friend, Gwennie Holder.

Christy was preceded in death by parents; husband, Kurt Gartner; brother, Steven Kerr; mother-in-law, Gwenlyn Sue Gartner; and former brother-in-law, Randy Bowling.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Pate Funeral Home & Crematory, Benton, IL.

Per Christy’s wishes cremation will take place and a celebration of life will be held at a later date.

Memorial Contributions may be made to the Franklin County Animal Shelter and will be accepted at the funeral home.

Raymond Dale Eickelmann, 75, of Valier, passed away on Thursday September 4, 2025.

He was born on October 16, 1949 in Christopher to Cecil Cole and Della (Martin) Eickelmann.

He is survived by his children Jon Eickelmann and Theresa Eickelmann; grandchildren Riley Eickelmann, Shelby Eickelmann, Drew Hauns, Samantha Hauns, Ginger Hauns and Chase Hauns and one sister Gaila Marie Carpenter of Buckner.

He was preceded in death by his parents, two brothers Cecil Cole Eickelmann and Gary Eickelmann.

Ray loved the outdoors and especially being at the family farm.

Funeral services will be on Tuesday September 9, 2025 at 1:00 PM at the Gilbert Funeral Home in Christopher with Brother Larry Cook officiating. Visitation will be on Tuesday from 11:00 AM until the time of the service at 1:00 PM at the funeral home. Burial will be at Harrison Cemetery in Buckner, IL.

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

On Aug. 8, 2025, we learned that we had lost our mother, Brenda Lee Hanlon.

She was born Dec. 12, 1957, to Ann Ruth (Scott) and Kenneth Gilmore. She was named by her big sister, Kathy and was the proud big sister of her brothers Kenneth and Glenn.

Our Mother tried her very best in this life and it was a tough one for her. All of her girls loved her more than she could have ever imagined.

She was preceded in death by both of her parents and her brother Glenn.

She is survived by her loving daughters Shannon, Nicole and Maria and their partners as well as eight beautiful grandchildren. She is also survived by her siblings, Kenneth Gilmore, Kathy Papamatheakis and their partners, as well as many nieces and nephews that she loved very much. In lieu of flowers, we ask that you consider making a donation in the local area to The Survivor Empowerment Center (Carbondale). We will miss you always and forever, Mom. You will always be our “Molly girl”.

In the stillness of the morning and the quiet of the night

My heart seeks signs from you, my wish to know that you’re alright

I see your face in everything

songs, memories, the gentle breeze coming in to alight

Sometimes I think I hear an answer, a butterfly, a bird in flight.

Your face is amongst the stars now, I hope your soul is free

Although in my hardest times, I wish it could have stayed for me.

All I wish is peace for you, that somehow you’re still there

We spend our lives filled with hope

For the people and things we love

Sometimes that love and hope is simply not enough.

Though we didn’t get to have that, not meant to be in this same life, I hope you see and hear me now and know how very much I cared.

Naomi Lou (Eldridge) Vogel, 91, of Christopher, Illinois went to be with her Lord and Savior on August 30, 2025 at The Anchor in Marion, Illinois. Naomi was born in Christopher, Illinois on April 12, 1934 to Carl and Genell (Carpenter) Eldridge. She married Charles “Chuck” Vogel on May 22, 1955, and he preceded her in death on December 9, 2018.

In addition to her husband Chuck, Naomi was preceded in death by her mother Genell Reid, father Carl Eldridge, stepfather Robert “Bob” Reid, brothers Raymond Eldridge and Deon Eldridge, mother-in-law Maude (Jones) Berolatti, father-in-law Martin Vogel, stepfather-in-law Joe Berolatti, sister-in-law Frances (Vogel) Furlin and brother-in-law Pete Furlin.

Naomi is survived by her daughter Lu Ann (Rick) Polley of Mulkeytown, Illinois, two grandsons Christopher “Kip” Polley (Ashley) of Marion, Illinois , and Tyler Polley of Wilton Manors, Florida, one great grandchild Taylor Polley of Marion, Illinois, nieces and nephews Jo Ellen Eldridge of Springfield, Illinois, Debbie (Ron) Frost of Austin, Arkansas, Michael Eldridge of East Hazelcrest, Illinois, Jeffery Eldridge of Sauk Village, Illinois, and Teresa Eldridge of Austin Arkansas, as well as several great nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Naomi was a member of First Christian Church in Christopher, Illinois where she spent many years helping in Vacation Bible School, youth groups, and the nursery. She worked as a telephone operator during the 1950s and early 1960s, and later worked for WIC (Women, Infants, and Children). She enjoyed reading, baking, walking, bowling, and spending time with her family.

Funeral services will be on Saturday, September 6, 2025 at 1:00 PM at Gilbert Funeral Home in Christopher, Illinois with Chris Webb officiating. Visitation will be on Saturday from 11:00 AM until the time of the funeral at 1:00 PM. Burial will be at Harrison Cemetery in Buckner, Illinois. In lieu of flowers donations can be made to the First Christian Church in Christopher, Illinois.

Naomi’s family would like to offer a special thanks to the many nurses, CNA’s, and staff members at The Anchor who went above and beyond to take care of her over the last six and a half years. Their compassion and care will always be treasured.

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

William “Bill” or “Buddy” Kesler was born on June 11, 1941, raised in Christopher, IL, graduated from Christopher High School, and attended Southern Illinois University. He was preceded in death by his parents, William and Stella Kesler, and his daughter, Beth. He loved God and his neighbor; he set a good example for all the world. To Know Him Is To Love Him.

He married Janet (Hicks) Kesler in 1962, was blessed with a beautiful baby girl in 1964, Beth Ellen, and then in 1966, they were blessed with an adorable baby boy, Bradford Blaine.

He was a very caring husband to his wife, Janet, for 62 years; she was the love of his life, as he put her needs before his; a true love story of a couple that stuck together through it all.

Bill worked as a bunny bread salesman for 30 years. Bill had a “dad joke” and a smile for everyone he met, along with a very calming presence.

Bill was a loving son, husband, father, and doting grandfather. He was like a father to his daughter-in-law, Brad’s wife, Angie. His greatest contribution was his 3 grandsons, Logan, Carter, and Gavin. They were his pride and joy. He also loved and was proud of his grandson’s fiancé, Paige Lane, soon to be Paige Kesler on 9/6/2025.

Bill had a deep love and respect for nature; he took the time to appreciate watching the birds, squirrels, deer, or any creature that roamed the earth. An avid hunter, he enjoyed hunting with his brother-in-law and dear friend, Ronnie Hicks.

Bill loved learning new things and was able to figure out or repair anything. Bill enjoyed his iPad and iPhone and was well-versed with the new technology for a man of his age.

No need for flowers, instead take a walk in the woods or take in the beauty of this earth while thinking of Bill or better yet, have a “Bill Kesler 2 beer special” (which was, chug the first beer then savor the second beer while your wife thinks you are only just having one.) then tell a “dad joke” to a friend or a stranger to make them smile, just like Bill would do.

Rest in peace, Buddy.

Graveside service will be held at 11:00 AM on Wednesday September 3, 2025 at the Maple Hill Cemetery, Sesser, IL with Father Urban Osuji officiating. Friends and family are asked to meet at the Cemetery.

Bonnie Jane Fasig, 73, of Johnston City, IL, passed away on Saturday August 23, 2025 at Deaconess Illinois Medical Center in Marion, IL.

She was born on February 16, 1952 in Chicago, IL to Noah and Velma Mary (Newberry) Key. She married Finis Fasig and he preceded her in death.

She is survived by her daughter Mary McMahon; step-children David Fasig and Diana Skamra; grandchildren Jana Stelle, Cristian Thompson, Mark Stelle and Brook Stelle; step grandchildren Bobby Fasig and Brandon Fasig and one brother Kim Key of Christopher.

She was preceded in death by her parents, husband and seven brothers and sisters.

Graveside services will be held on Tuesday September 2, 2025 at 11:00 AM at the Maple Hill Cemetery. Friends and family are asked to meet at the cemetery.

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