Barbara "Bonnie" Helen Baker Kelly

 CHAMPAIGN — It is with profound sadness and boundless admiration that we announce the passing of Barbara “Bonnie” Helen Baker Kelley, 82, who left us peacefully on Tuesday (April 9, 2024).

Born on April 21, 1941, in St. Joe, Mo., to Charlotte and Richard Baker, Bonnie was a beacon of light and a source of unwavering support to all who knew her. As the cherished matriarch of her family, a pioneering professional and a dedicated community leader, her zest marks Bonnie’s legacy for life, commitment to education and trailblazing spirit.

Raised as the youngest of four siblings, Bonnie’s early years in Champaign plotted her path. Her academic and extracurricular achievements at Champaign High School, notably as a state champion baton majorette, foreshadowed a lifetime of leadership and excellence. Bonnie’s pursuit of knowledge continued at the University of Illinois, where she was a proud member and later an adviser of the Delta Delta Delta sorority, fostering lifelong friendships and instilling values of sisterhood and service.

After earning her bachelor of science in clinical pathology from Eastern Illinois University, Bonnie dedicated years to enhancing health care as a medical technician. Her transition to education saw her nurturing the minds of aspiring health care students at Parkland College, while she concurrently earned her master’s degree in education from the University of Illinois. Beyond her passion for teaching, Bonnie demonstrated visionary leadership in the funeral service industry, assuming the presidency of Kelley and Son’s Burial and Vault Co. in 1980. Under her direction, she broadened the company’s offerings and made historic strides by installing a crematory in 1981, initiating significant changes in a traditionally male-dominated field. Her exceptional leadership extended to her role on the Parkland College Board of Trustees, where she served with distinction for over 30 years, culminating in her recognition by the Illinois State Senate for her dedicated service. This dual impact in both education and business underscores Bonnie’s remarkable influence and pioneering spirit.

Bonnie’s impact extended far beyond her professional endeavors. Elected as the first woman to the Champaign Rotary Club (WGRC) in 1988, she broke barriers and set a precedent for future generations of women leaders. Her roles ranged from president of the Champaign Chamber of Commerce to co-chair of the Krannert Marquee Council, demonstrating her multifaceted leadership and her commitment to civic engagement.

Perhaps most profound was Bonnie’s unwavering belief in the power of education, not only in teaching but continuously learning. Her travels across six continents enriched not only her life but also those of her friends and family, whom she encouraged to pursue their dreams relentlessly. Bonnie’s legacy as a mother, grandmother, peer, teacher and mentor will live on through the countless lives she touched.

Bonnie was a beloved family member, cherished for her boundless love and wisdom. She is survived by her siblings Richard (MaryHelen) Baker and Mary Anne (Joe) Shaw; children, Libby (Rich) Herr and Matt (Deb) Kelley; grandchildren, Ricky (Olivia), Sophia, Noah, Max, Samuel and William; and great- granddaughter, Faye June Herr.

Bonnie was preceded in death by her beloved brother Daniel.

Her life was enriched by her marriage to Rolland Kelley from 1963 until 2000, a partnership filled with family and professional successes. She also leaves behind her cherished companion of many years, Jim Acheson.

Bonnie’s legacy of kindness, mentorship and leadership will continue to enrich all who knew her.

Bonnie’s life was a testament to her extraordinary capacity to love, lead and inspire. As we celebrate her remarkable journey, we find comfort in knowing her legacy will continue to influence generations to come. Bonnie’s light will forever shine brightly in the hearts of those she touched.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Parkland College Scholarship Fund, a cause close to Bonnie’s heart, ensuring her passion for education continues to empower and inspire others.

Visitation will be held at Owens Funeral Home, 101 N. Elm St., Champaign, on Tuesday, April 16, from 4 to 6 p.m. Funeral Mass will be celebrated at Holy Cross Catholic Church, 403 W. Clark St., Champaign, on Wednesday, April 17, at 10 a.m. Burial will immediately follow in Mt. Olive Cemetery, Mayview.

Condolences may be offered at owensfuneralhomes. com.

NG 4/17/2024

Linda May

 Linda Mae May, born January 25, 1938 south of Fisher, IL, resided in Saint Joseph, IL, departed this earth surrounded by her loved ones on 4/15/2024. She married the love of her life Vernon L. May on August 8 1976.

Linda is joining in heaven by her son David, parents Chester and Virginia Reynolds, siblings Joyce Holladay, Carol Wheat and Russel Reynolds. Linda is survived by her children Debbie Bewsher, Tim Pittsley, Kevin May, also many grandchildren, great grandchildren, great great granddaughter and many nieces and nephews.

She lived a life of laughter and love, and valued family over all. 

Funeral services will be at 11:00 A.M. Thursday April 18, 2024 at Freese Funeral Home 302 E. Grand Ave. St. Joseph. Pastor Sally Swaim will officiate. Burial will be in Eastlawn Memorial Park, Urbana. Visitation will be from 10:00 A.M. to 11:00 A.M. on Thursday.

Freese FH 4/16/2024

Sharon Rice

 
HOMER - Sharon Rice, 71, of Homer passed away at 10:30 p.m. Sunday (March 24, 2024) at home. She was welcomed with open arms by her family in heaven.

Funeral services will be at 10 a.m. Friday, March 29, at Homer Funeral and Cremation Services, 708 S. Main St., Homer, with the Rev. Chuck Alt officiating. Burial will take place in GAR Cemetery, Homer. There will be a visitation from 5 to 8 p.m. Thursday at the funeral home.

Sharon was born July 19, 1952, at Burnham Hospital in Champaign, to Melvin "Pete" and Betty Ann (Clem) Humphrey. Sharon married Donald Eugene Rice on Jan. 21, 1984, in Penfield. He survives.

Sharon was a lifelong resident of Homer and a member of the former Homer Church of Christ. She graduated from Homer High School in 1970. Sharon retired from Herff Jones Cap & Gown in 2015 after 45 years of dedicated service.

Sharon enjoyed spending time with her family, especially her grandchildren, who were her world. She enjoyed her long talks with her brother, Ron, whom she loved dearly. "Grandma" had many honorary grandchildren, including Chloe Shanks. Sharon was the nucleus of a large extended family. She kept in touch with many of her cousins, and the love and support they showed during her illness shows how they felt about her.

Sharon is also survived by her son, Joey (Stephanie) Rice of Homer; three grandchildren, Tristen Michael, Kaydence Elizabeth and Eliza Marie Rice; her stepson, Donald Eugene Rice Jr. of Buffalo, N.Y.; brother Ronald (Julie) Humphrey of Homer; sister-in-law, Cindy Humphrey of Paxton; nephew Donald (Jessica) Humphrey of Rantoul; nieces, Holly Humphrey of Villa Grove and Hanna Humphrey of Mattoon; great-nephews, Dalton, Dakota and Drake Humphrey; mother-in-law, Viola Rice of Fort Oglethorpe, Ga.; aunts, Irma Clem and Janice Humphrey; granddogs, Ruby, Coco and Cuddles; and many cousins and friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents; brother Donald "Sam" Humphrey; sister, Ann Marie "Rhea" Humphrey; nephews Kevin Humphrey and Adam Humphrey; and father-in-law, Donald Rice.

Memorials can be made to the Champaign County Forest Preserve District or a charity of the donor's choice.

Published by The News-Gazette from Mar. 26 to Mar. 27, 2024.

Michael Lynn Eads

 CHAMPAIGN - Michael Lynn Eads, 74, of Champaign passed away at 5:07 p.m. Tuesday, March 26, 2024, at University of Chicago Medical Center, Chicago.

Michael was born April 27, 1949, in Paris, Ill., the eldest of six children of Walter and Charlene (Bostic) Eads.

He is survived by his wife, Linda (Staehling); four children, James Eads of Oakland, Christopher Eads (Heather) of Villa Grove, Julie Staehling (fiancé Jayce Edwards) of Nashville, Tenn., and Rachel Stratton of Champaign; four grandchildren, Mitchell Gobert, Carley Eads, Delaney Eads and Violet June Edwards; two sisters, Donica Thompson (Jack) of Chrisman and Vicki Bussart (Leon) of Pesotum. A special mention goes to Michael's granddog, Riley Boo (Cray-Cray), whom he doted on and gave way too many treats, and an honorable mention goes to Sally and Dolly, his two feral cats that he made sure were always well fed and taken care of.

Michael was preceded in death by his parents and three brothers, David Eads, Gary Eads and Troy Eads.

Michael graduated from Brocton High School in 1967. He then attended Eastern Illinois University but got interrupted when life happened. Decades later, his wife, Linda, encouraged him to return and finish college. Michael graduated in 2009 and proudly walked the stage in full cap and gown at age 62 with a degree in accounting.

Michael was a veteran serving as a Seabee in the U.S. Navy during the Vietnam era.

Michael retired in 2016 after 30 years of service as an electronic technician with the U.S. Postal Service in Champaign. He liked his job and was a natural fit for the position and was always willing to help his co-workers.

Michael and Linda were married on Oct. 10, 2011, in Rockville, Ind., on a bet. They had no intention of getting married that day as they were in Rockville to attend the Covered Bridge Festival. They discovered they arrived a day too early and it was not open yet. With cash in his pocket and not wanting to waste a trip, they decided to get married at the courthouse. Michael always joked he got a bargain for $62. There were no rings, no flowers, no fancy wedding attire, just each other - and they never looked back.

Michael was an extremely talented man when it came to fixing things and making things. He could fix anything, and he enjoyed woodworking. One of his favorite things to make were birdhouses. He ran his own doggie day care from his home to accommodate Riley, as they were best buds.

Michael enjoyed going to the shooting range with his sister Vicki every week and enjoyed going to lunch with his friend Jerry.  He was a member of the American Legion Post 24 in Champaign and the Illini Collector Car Club.

The family would like to thank Dr. Odenike and her staff and all the wonderful, caring and compassionate nurses at the University of Chicago where Michael was fighting a relapse of acute myeloid leukemia. In 2019, Michael was a proud participant in a clinical trial for a new drug to treat AML. In addition, we want to thank Olivia and her team at Christie Clinic physical therapy. They helped Michael significantly during the last five years both physically and mentally, and he truly enjoyed his exercise class and new friends.

Visitation will be from 10 a.m. to noon Wednesday, April 3, 2024, at Homer Funeral and Cremation Services, 708 S. Main St., Homer. Afterward, please join us in taking Michael to his final resting place in the Grand Army of the Republic cemetery in Homer. American Legion Post 24 will provide military rites.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in Michael's name to American Legion Post 24, 705 Bloomington Road, Champaign IL 61820.

Published by The News-Gazette from Mar. 29 to Mar. 30, 2024.

Frank Boyd Dutton

 
Frank Boyd Dutton, 79, of Mahomet, IL, passed away on April 8th, 2024, after suffering from an unexpected cardiac arrest while at home. He will be deeply missed by his family and countless friends. 

Frank was born on June 19, 1944 to Richard and Hattie Dutton. After Frank graduated from Homer High School, he pursued a degree in education at Illinois State University where he also played football.

On June 30th, 1967, Frank married Diane Webb. They were preparing to celebrate their 57th anniversary this summer. Frank and Diane have two children, Doug and Beth.

Frank was predeceased by his parents, his sister Joyce, and brothers Ted and Richard. He is survived by his sister LaVerne, wife Diane, son Doug, Daughter Beth, Son-in Law Jared Painter, and Daughter in Law Shorouk Ramahi. He is also survived by the Grandchildren he adored,  Branson ,his wife Teanna Painter, and Jillian Painter (Beth and Jared), and Laithe and Zaina Dutton (Doug and Shorouk), as well as his beloved great grandchildren Taelah and Jordan (Branson and Teanna).

In accordance with his wishes, Frank will be cremated and friends may greet the family at a visitation from 4:00-7:00pm on Friday, April 12 at Mahomet United Methodist Church (1302 E. South Mahomet Road).  A celebration of Frank's life will be at 3:00 on Sunday, April 14 at the church.  He will be buried at Riverside Cemetery in a private ceremony at a later date.  

In lieu of flowers, Frank wanted people to please consider a donation to either the American Diabetes Association, the Mahomet Cornbelt Fire Department, the United Methodist Church of Mahomet or other worthwhile charity of your choice.

Condolences may be offered at www.owensfuneralhomes.com

NG 4/11/2024

Andrew M. Bosch

 Andrew (Andy) M Bosch of Crawfordsville, IN, formerly of the Champaign, IL area, passed away peacefully with family by his side on April 8th, 2024 at IU Hospital in Indianapolis, IN. Andy was born July 8th, 1952 in Nurnberg Germany to Henry and Margareta Bosch. He was preceded in death by both of his parents, his baby brother Jared, brother Randy, nephew Jay, and great niece Madison.

He is survived by his longtime partner and fiancée Mary A. Clouse, his daughter Kira (Jake) Pirtle, two grandsons Tyler and Gage Casey, 5 step children, sisters Janet Woodworth (Bill Brannock), Sharon Bosch, Debbie (Todd) Whitt, and many nieces, nephews, great nieces and nephews, and cousins.
He also leaves behind his beloved cats.
Andy grew up in the Broadlands, and Champaign area spending his early years riding Harley Davidson motorcycles, & racing stock cars. He was an avid car enthusiast, who spent his later years living in the Crawfordsville, Indiana area with his fiancée Mary. He spent his time working on his many hot rods, and traveling to car shows. He made many friends, and acquaintances within the car world, and relationships that he treasured dearly. He was also a member of the National Street Rod Association.
A visitation will be held in Tolono, IL. at Freese Funeral Home on April 20th, 2024 from 1-3pm. There will also be a memorial car show, planned in his name, in Waynetown, IN. in July, but details are incomplete at this time.

Freese FH 4/10/2024

Riley Snyder

 

Riley Snyder 28, of St. Joseph passed on Wednesday April 3, 2024 at Carle Foundation Hospital, Urbana.

 Riley devoted his life to teaching at risk youth as the K-12 Art teacher with the Decatur School system. with compassion and fervor. Born in Elgin, Il he is leaving behind a close-knit family; father, Michael Snyder, mother Jeanne Lord, sister Anna Snyder, and grandma, Sandra Waller. He loved his two pets Mabel and Levi, and a host of extended family members and friends. His family finds solace in the knowledge that he lived life and loved others to the fullest despite his untimely death.

 Riley was a gentle soul who loved art, poetry, fishing, dogs, sitting on the front porch, hanging out in the garage, butter cookies and taco bell. He loved going to church and practicing his catholic faith. He treasured his runs and long walks outside with his sister, Anna, while blasting songs from Sister Act. The family recalls his random acts of kindness, bringing his mom flowers, and annual tradition of wearing "ugly sweaters" every day during Christmas time for his students.

 He valued quality time with family. He was known by all for having the biggest heart always willing to give. His generous spirit and willingness to help anyone in need helped aid his family's decision to continue his legacy of helping those in need in death as he did in life. And while they each are grieving the huge void of his physical presence; they are all tremendously blessed with invaluable memories of their time spent with their beloved Riley.

 A Memorial Mass will be held at 1:30 P.M. Friday May 10, 2024 at St. Patrick Catholic Church 708 W. Main St. Urbana, IL. Freese Funeral Home 302 E. Grand Ave. St. Joseph is assisting the family with arrangements. 

 Memorials may be made to a fund being established for the Decatur Alternative school education program in Riley's memory.

Freese FH 4/10/2024