Cecilia “Jane” Brayfield, 89, died peacefully at the DuQuoin Nursing and Rehab in DuQuoin, IL on September 28th, 2025.

Jane was a homemaker as well as the proprietor of “Aunt Janes Treasures” antique store in Christopher Illinois. Jane was born in Christopher IL to Carl and Lela (Jones) Webb, the oldest of three children.

She married John Robert Brayfield of Sesser, and they had two sons, John Steven and Robby Webb Brayfield. For a generation of kids from the Christopher area she was known as “Aunt Jane” from her story hour reading program at the Christopher Public Library as well as her gifts of stuffed animals for kids and seniors at Halloween and Christmas. Jane was known to be funny, kind, generous, outgoing and the type of person to have never met a stranger or a garage sale she didn’t like. She was always there to lend a helping hand to those in need. In her free time, Jane enjoyed garage sales, antiquing, and traveling, having traveled to Ireland, England, and Italy as well as throughout most of the United States.

Jane is survived by her sons John and wife Betsy Brayfield, of Valier, IL, and Rob and wife Cathy Brayfield, of Maineville, OH, three grandchildren, John Steven Brayfield Jr., Sarah Jo and Kody Rathert, and Kaylee Brayfield and great grandchildren Bowen and Caroline Brayfield and Skylar and Dawson Rathert. Jane was preceded in death by her husband John, parents Carl and Lela, one brother Dean Webb and one sister Leann (Webb) Stritzel and brother-in-law Richard “Dick” Stritzel.

Jane will be cremated and there will be a graveside service for Jane and John to be laid to rest together on Saturday October 11, 2025 at 11:00 AM at the Mulkeytown Cemetery, as well as a celebration of life to follow. In lieu of flowers, to honor Jane’s memory, please donate to http://www.canscanbenton.org which is a non-profit ministry that provides programs and resources to underprivileged southern Illinoisans.

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

Robert J. Nolan, 87, of Benton, passed away at 4:44 a.m., on Monday, September 8, 2025, at his daughter’s home in Benton, IL.

He was born on June 19, 1938, to Joseph and Eleanor (Castagnola) Nolan in San Francisco, CA. Robert worked as an electrician in electrical safety training and inspector.

Robert served three years in the United States National Guard in San Francisco, CA where he was a Specialist 4th Class and earning the Honor of Sharp Shooter.

He enjoyed traveling, cooking and building models.

Robert is survived by his children, Timothy Joseph Nolan of CA; Kimberly Ann (Nolan) Hayes of CA and Colleen (Nolan) Marsinko, and husband Randy of Benton, IL; and two grandchildren, Bryan Hayes and Christopher Hayes, both of CA.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Joseph James and Eleanor Elina Nolan and his son, Joseph Robert Nolan.

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

Per Robert’s wishes, cremation will take place.

Online condolences can be given at www.patefh.com.
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Jeffrey Michael Hanner, 45, of Valier, passed away on Monday September 22, 2025 at Franklin Hospital.

He was born on August 19, 1980 in DuQuoin, IL to Lennie and Diana (Razer) Hanner.

He is survived by his parents Lennie and Diana Hanner of Valier, his two daughters Jaylyn Hanner and Matilda Hanner; one brother Timothy Hanner and two nephews Chase Hanner and Zane Hanner.

Funeral services will be on Saturday October 4, 2025 at 3:00 PM at the Gilbert Funeral Home in Christopher with Brother David Heath officiating. Visitation will be on Saturday from 1:00 PM until the time of the service at 3:00 PM at the funeral home.

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

Betty Jean Hackleman, age 57, of Mt. Carmel, Illinois, passed away Monday, September 22, 2025, at her home.

Betty was born on October 10, 1967, in Perry County, Illinois; the daughter of Larry Hackleman and Nancy Kathleen (Dunmyer) Hackleman Denham.

She was a former LPN of twenty years, having mostly worked in nursing homes and doctor’s offices.

Betty enjoyed the outdoors, especially hiking and fishing. She enjoyed writing poetry, and she loved sitting outdoors on the porch reading a book with a cup of coffee.

Surviving are four children including: Jessica Rodenhofer and husband Tyler Blades of Benton, Illinois, Brittany Hunt and husband Corey Hunt of Herrin, Illinois, Adam Morton and wife Amanda of Raleigh, Illinois, four legged fur baby Harley; grandchildren: Nihl Morton, Devan Furlow, Ellyana Blades, Zaid Hunt, Izzy Eubanks; siblings: Carrie Griffin and husband Bart of Yemassee, South Carolina, Larry Hackleman and wife Carol of Chicago, Lori Osinga and husband Doug of Murphysboro, Illinois, Kay Robey and husband Todd of Johnston City, Illinois; and several nieces and nephews.
Betty was preceded in death by her parents, and a grandchild Ethan Hunt, a niece Rebekah Griffin.

Betty’s wishes are to be cremated, with a private family Celebration of Life, to be held at a future date.
Leffler Funeral Home of Benton is in charge of the cremation arrangements.
To leave online condolences to the family, or to share memories of Betty, visit www.lpfuneralhome.com.

Roy Earl Thomas, 95, of Swansea, IL, passed away on Friday September 19, 2025 at his home.

He was born on August 27, 1930 in Christopher to Adam Earl and Alta (Overturf) Thomas. He married Yvonne (Ridley) Thomas on November 28, 1952 and she preceded her in death on August 31, 1992.

He is survived by his children Jeffrey (Sandy) Thomas of Millstadt and Barbara Thomas of Swansea; grandchildren Amanda (Josh) Taylor, Adam (Olivia) Thomas and Sumer (Nick) Blackner; great great grandchildren Kaili, Ayden and Cowan.

He was preceded in death by his parents, wife, one son Adam Thomas, one brother Bill Thomas; sisters Margie Aimonette and Betty Brayfield.

Funeral services will be on Wednesday October 1, 2025 at 11:00 AM at the Brayfield-Gilbert Funeral Home in Sesser. Visitation will be on Wednesday from 10:30 AM until the time of the service at 11:00 AM. Burial will be at Knight Cemetery in Buckner, IL.

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

Pennie A. Williams Mabry, 69, of Benton passed away on Monday evening September 22, 2025 at the Herrin Hospital.

Pennie was born in Christopher, Illinois on July 9, 1956 the daughter of Roy & Shirley (Good) Marvel.

Pennie was married to James E. Williams and then to Frank Mabry.

She was of the Baptist faith and a member of New Hope Missionary Baptist Church.

Pennie is survived by her:
Children: Amanda, Christina, Sarah, Chad, Kyle & Tyler
3 Step-children: Scott, Troy & Darik
10 Grandchildren
1 Brother: Steve Marvel of Benton

She was preceded in death by her Parents, Grandparents, Husbands, 2 Sisters Nancy Wright & Julie Marvel and Brother Danny Marvel.
Funeral services will be held at 11:00 A.M. on Friday, September 26th at the Morton & Johnston Funeral Home in Benton with Rev. Dean Severin officiating. Burial will be in the Masonic & Odd Fellows Cemetery in Benton. Visitation will be from 10:00 A.M. to 11:00 A.M. on Friday at the funeral home.
For more information or to send online condolences please visit www.mortonjohnstonfuneralhome.com

David Michael Cox, 77, of Sesser, Illinois, passed away peacefully at home on September 16th, 2025.

David was born on December 17th, 1947, to Clyde (Boss) and Neva Cremeens Cox in Duquoin, IL. He was a member of the graduating class of 1966 at Benton Consolidated High School. Following graduation, David served in the United Stated Army before starting a lifelong career in coal mining. He dedicated many years underground before serving as an MSHA inspector. David officially retired from the mining industry in December 2009 after 40+ years of service.

David was a member of Valier First Baptist Church, the Rend Lake Masonic Lodge, and The Road Rebels Car Club. He was a classic car enthusiast who enjoyed traveling to local car shows. Many of his days were joyfully passed in the garage, where he loved working on projects. David loved spending time outdoors—whether mowing the yard, cheering on his grandkids at their baseball games, or relaxing by the shore at Panama City Beach. Most of all, David cherished his family, who were the center of his world and the source of his greatest pride. He will be remembered for his kindness, dedication, and the love he so freely gave. His legacy lives on through his friends and family.

David is survived by his wife at heart of 15 years, Dixie Miller; two daughters, Jana Cox and Gretchen Pool; Also survived by, Tonya Cloe, Michael (Lori) Miller, and Chad (Valerie) Miller, all of Sesser; grandchildren, Kennedy (Connor) Cloe, Kassedy (Tristan) Cloe, Evan Miller, and Beckett Miller; and one great-grand princess, Kollynns House. He was preceded in death by his parents, his sister, Dolores Schutt, his wife, Cindy Cox, and his close friend and cousin, Keith Ward. Visitation will be held on Monday September 22nd, 2025 from 10:00am until the time of service at 1:00pm at Brayfield- Gilbert Funeral Home in Sesser, IL with Richard West officiating. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Hammond Cemetery or SSM Hospice of Mt. Vernon, IL.

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

Patsy May Hopkins, 58, of Benton passed away Monday evening September 15, 2025 at her home.

She was born in DuQuoin, Illinois on December 21, 1966 the daughter of Earl & Minnie (Armstrong) Poe.

She married Paul E. Hopkins on March 26, 1986.

Mrs. Hopkins is survived by her:
Husband: Paul E. Hopkins of Benton
2 Sons:
Matthew Hopkins & wife Brooke of Benton
John Hopkins & wife Amber of Benton
8 Grandchildren: Aiden, Taven, Phoebe, Mackinzie, Zayne, Hayden, Liam & Jennica
Sister: Susan Chitwood of Metropolis
Brother: Bill Poe of Texas
Brother Dean Poe of West Frankfort
Brother: Gene Poe of West Frankfort
Mrs. Hopkins was preceded in death by her Parents, 1 Sister and 3 Brothers.

A Memorial Visitation will be held from 4:00 P.M. to 6:00 P.M. on Saturday, September 20th at the Morton & Johnston Funeral Home in Benton.
For more information or to send online condolences please visit www.mortonjohnstonfuneralhome.com

Betty Loraine (Cochrane) Sink, age 83, of Ina, Illinois passed away Tuesday, September 16th, 2025, at her home surrounded by her loved ones.

Visitation will be from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at the Morton and Johnston Funeral Home of Benton, Illinois, Monday September 22nd, 2025. Funeral service will follow at 1:00 p.m. with Brother Brad Ryan officiating. Graveyard Service following at Masonic and Odd Fellows Cemetery of Benton, Illinois.
Betty Loraine Sink was born on September 7th, 1942, in Ewing Illinois; the daughter of Frank Cochrane and Loraine (Williams) Cochrane. She married Rodney Elvis Sink from Frisco, IL on September 18th, 1965.

Betty was a member of the Ina Free Will Baptist Church. She was a very active church member throughout her life. She most recently enjoyed helping at vacation bible school. She was a homemaker and genealogist that found deep meaning in connecting the dots between generations, each name on a document is a story waiting to be told. Her greatest joy was spending as much time as possible with all her grandchildren.

Surviving are three children: Mark Elvis Sink and wife Tammy of Belleville, IL, Leann Roberts and husband Riley of Ewing IL, Becky Graham of St. Augustine, FL; grandchildren including: Travis Sink of Harrisburg, IL, Daman Sink of DuQuoin, IL, Jeremy Joplin and finance Ashley Lombardi of Belleville, IL, Kessa Roberts and husband Brandon Bernard of Ewing, IL, Kacee Roberts and husband Kyle Neal of Ewing, IL, Peyton Roberts and wife Abigail Beasley of Ewing, IL, Joshua Graham and wife Kayla Jordan of St. Augustine, FL, and Janel Graham of St. Augustine, FL ; Great-Grandchildren: Sofia Sink, Mark Sink, Brynlee Bernard, Gunner Bernard, Slade Bernard, Tate Neal, Hallie Neal, Staley Roberts, Layla Roberts, Liam Graham, Conrad Graham, and Ronan Graham.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband and son-In-law David Graham of St. Augustine, FL.

In lieu of flowers the family kindly requests that donations be made to Morton and Johnston Funeral Home.
For more information or to send online condolences please visit www.mortonjohnstonfuneralhome.com

Eddy Allen Rogers, age 82, of Christopher, Illinois, passed away Wednesday, September 17, 2025, at the Barnes-Jewish Hospital of St. Louis, Missouri.

Funeral services will be held at 1:00 p.m. Monday, September 22, 2025, at the Leffler Funeral Home of Benton, with Rev. Donnie Colson officiating. Burial with Military Honors by the Christopher American Legion Post # 528, will be in the Masonic and Odd Fellows Cemetery of Benton. Visitation will be from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Monday, at the Leffler Funeral Home.

Eddy was born on May 21, 1943, in Franklin County, Illinois; the son of James Edward Rogers and Beulah (Cluck) Rogers. He married the former Susan Laverne Leyerle on August 15, 1969, and she preceded him in death on October 17, 2023. Together they shared 54 years of marriage.
Mr. Rogers was a veteran of the United States Marine Corps.

He was a carpenter. Formerly, he and his son Brad maintained the Lake of Egypt Docks. He was a member of the Illinois State Rifle Association.
Eddy enjoyed hunting, fishing, reading, shooting guns, antique tractors, and his antique Model A truck. He was an International Harvester mechanic. Most of all, he enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren.

Surviving is his son Brad Allen Rogers and wife Dana of Mulkeytown, Illinois; three grandchildren: Lucas Allen Rogers, Tinley Marie Rogers, and Christopher Monteith; two brothers: Donald Rogers of Granite City, Illinois, and Jim Rogers of Christopher, Illinois; and several nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents, wife, two brothers: Tom and Bob, and three sisters: Darlene, Doris, and Freda.
Memorial contributions in memory of Eddy, may be made to the Disabled American Veterans and will be accepted at the funeral home.
To leave online condolences to the family, or to share memories of Eddy, visit www.lpfuneralhome.com.