Marjorie Ann Izard

 Marjorie Ann Izard (Marge), age 89, of Homer passed away peacefully on Friday, August 22, 2025

Marge was born September 17, 1935 in Danville to Edward and Mattie Bateman Gogerty.  She attended Schlarman High School in Danville.  After graduation she met and married Ronald Izard on October 23, 1954 at St. Patrick’s Church in Danville.  Together they raised six children in Homer.  They enjoyed Euchre Club with friends, raising horses, and annual trips to Florida.  Above all Marge was a devoted daughter, sister, wife, mother, and grandmother embracing every moment with family.  She was a long-time parishioner of St. Thomas Catholic Church in Philo.

She is survived by four sons; Dan (Kelly) Izard of Danville, Tim (Kathy) Izard of St. Joseph, Greg (Julie) Izard of St. Joseph, Doug (Judy) Izard of Traverse City, Michigan, two daughters; Julie (Jack) Johnston of St. Joseph, and Lori (Ivan) Torres of Rantoul, fifteen grandchildren, and twenty-eight great grandchildren.  She is also survived by two brothers; Ed and Tom Gogerty, and one sister, Linda Heeren.

Marge was preceded in death by her parents, husband, Ronald, and one great-granddaughter.

Memorials may be made to St. Thomas Catholic Church or the Alzheimer’s Association.

Funeral Mass will be 10:30 AM, Friday, August 29, 2025 at St. Thomas Catholic Church with Rev. Keith Walder officiating.  Burial will be at GAR Cemetery, Homer.  Rosary will be at 4:30 PM, Thursday at the church with visitation to follow from 5 to 7 PM.  Freese Funeral Home, Sidney is assisting with arrangements.

Freese FH 8/25/2025

Audrey Lanier Orr

 Audrey Lanier Orr

The daughter of Glada and Albert Johnson, Audrey Lanier Orr was born on April 20th, 1921, on a farm south of Rankin, Illinois. Audrey spent her early childhood in the Potomac and Rankin areas. When she was 8 years old, she moved to Fithian, Illinois where she finished her grade school years. She graduated from Oakwood Township High School in 1939.

She married Kenneth Orr, (from Homer Illinois) on June 7th 1941, at the Fithian Methodist Church. Together they had 3 sons: Richard, Ronald, and Donald. During the first years of their marriage, they lived on a farm south of St. Joseph IL. They moved to St. Joseph in 1964, and both found work at the University of Illinois. Audrey proceeded to work there until she retired at the age of 80. Audrey spent 25 years working in accounting and then worked part-time for 16 years in the NCSA.

She was a member of the St. Joseph Methodist Church and Seniors group, the Danville Iris Chapter of the Easter Star, and was once also part of the St. Joseph Garden Club. She made many good friends while being involved in the community and her work. She would like to give thanks to all of those she holds dear. She would also like to thank the girls who kept her flower garden beautiful, the two that took her to lunch and shopping, her Houston friend, and all her caregivers and visitors. A special thank you goes to her great friend/handyman and who she referred to as her 4th son, Bob Silva.

She is survived by her two sons: Richard Orr of Champaign IL, and Donald (Judi) Orr of Sonoma CA; her 3 grandchildren: Sean (Barb) Orr of Mahomet IL, Bryan (Debbie) Orr of Hanover Park IL, and Jennifer Caramucci (Gary Wilbanks) of Novato, CA; and her 7 great-grandchildren: Zachary and Matthew Orr, Kai Nelson-Orr, Julia and Sara Klein, McKenna and Garrett Caramucci. She was preceded in death by her husband Kenneth and her son Ronald and his wife Margaret.

Memorial donations on her behalf can be made to:

The St. Joseph IL Library 201 N 3rd Street, St. Joseph IL 61873

St. Joseph Fire and Rescue 228 E. Warren St, St. Joseph IL 61873

Funeral services will be 10:30 AM, Wednesday, September 3, 2025 at Freese Funeral Home, St. Joseph.  Burial will be at GAR Cemetery, Homer.  Visitation will be from 4 to 7PM, Tuesday, September 2, 2025 at the funeral home. 

Freese FH 8/25/2025

Martha Mae Barnett

 Martha Mae Barnett, 85 of Gifford, died at 4:15 p.m. Tuesday, August 19, 2025, at her home.

A Memorial Service will be held at a later date with burial in Huls Cemetery, Gifford.  Baier Family Funeral Services, Flatville is handling arrangements.

Martha was born September 20, 1939, in Tuscola the daughter of Delbert Eugene and Mabel Faye Eckerty Warnes.  She married Jim C. Barnett on September 12, 1964, in Longview.  He preceded her in death January 22, 2018.

She is survived by a son, John W. Barnett of Gifford; two grandchildren, Darren (Amber) Barnett of Mahomet and Elaine Barnett of Rantoul.

She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, an infant daughter, Twila Faye, one sister and two brothers.

Martha was a member of the Gifford United Methodist Church.  She retired as an accountant from the University of Illinois.

She enjoyed crocheting, reading and was a collector of frog-themed items.  Her greatest joy was spending time with her family.

Memorials may be made to an organization of the donor’s choice.  Condolences and memories can be shared with the family at www.baierfuneralservices.com.

Georgianna Noel

 HOMER — Georgianna Noel, 91, of Homer passed away Tuesday (Aug. 19, 2025) at Carle Foundation Hospital, Urbana.

Funeral services will be at 11 a.m. Friday, Aug. 22, at Homer Funeral and Cremation Services, 708 S. Main St., Homer. Pastor Raymie Gordon will officiate. Burial will take place in G.A.R. Cemetery, Homer. There will be a visitation from 10 a.m. until the time of the service at the funeral home.

Georgianna was born Jan. 4, 1934, in Danville, the daughter of Oliver and Cora Krabbe Lewis. She married Donald Noel on Aug. 22, 1954. He preceded her in death in 1987.

Survivors include her daughter, Stacy (Guy E.) James of Tuscola; grandchildren, Dalton James, Sophia James (Ryan Caulfield) and Parker James (Ayla DeLeva); great-granddaughter, Ava James; and faithful little companion, Scooter.

She was also preceded in death by S. Paul Krabbe, who was like a brother to her.

Georgianna enjoyed gardening and sharing laughs and drinks with her longtime friends. She will be dearly missed by her family.

Memorials can be made to G.A.R. Cemetery or the Champaign County Humane Society.

NG 8/21/2025

ROHL

Orville E. Rohl

 Orville E. Rohl, 98, of Homer passed away on Tuesday August 19, 2025 at Carle Foundation Hospital, Urbana.

 Visitation will be Friday August 22, 2025 from 12:30 P.M. to 1:15 P.M. at Immanuel Lutheran Church 390 CR 2400 E, Broadlands. Funeral services will be at 1:30 P.M.. Pastor Jason Braaten will officiate. Burial will be in Immanuel Lutheran Cemetery.

 Orville was born December 22, 1926 in Homer. The son of William and Thelma (Heselden) Rohl. He married MaryAnn Rothermel on September 22, 1951. She preceded him in death.

 He is survived by a daughter Kathleen (John) Mackinson of Odell, son Keith (Brenda) Rohl of Homer. 4 Grandchildren John Mackinson, Kim (Matt) Taylor, Jason Mackinson, Collin (Nicole) Rohl and 9 great-grandchildren.

 He was preceded in death by his parents, wife, 3 sisters Orthalyne Ressler, Olive Neihaus, Betty Erwin and a brother William.

 Orville attended Homer schools, during high school he enlisted in the U.S. Navy (December 1944) and served on the USS Fillmore during WW II. Upon completion of his tour of duty he returned to complete his senior year at Homer High School.

 He attended Immanuel Lutheran Church, Broadlands. 

Orville farmed in the Homer area all his life, his favorite color of machinery was green. Orville never met a day of farm work he did not enjoy. His favorite hobby was farm work.

 Memorials may be made to the Homer Fire Department or Immanuel Lutheran Church, Broadlands.

Freese FH 08/20/2025

Ryan Michael Peccenino

 
Ryan Michael Pecchenino, age 42, of St. Joseph, passed away on Saturday, August 16, 2025

at his home. He was born on January 31,1983, in Kankakee, the son of Nathan and Patricia
(Lamie) Pecchenino.
Ryan was a devoted husband, father, son, brother, uncle and friend. He was loved by many and
will be dearly missed, especially by his wife and children. Ryan had many passions, including
sports, especially golf and baseball, poker, and cooking, but nothing compared to the love he
had for his family. He was always the life of the party and had a knack for telling the best
stories. Known as Chef Ryan by many, his dishes were as pleasant and robust as his presence
in a room. The food, and company, shared at his family gatherings will surely be missing a key
ingredient in his absence.
Ryan was a gifted athlete in his adolescence and carried his passion for sports into adulthood.
In 1995, his Little League team, the Aroma Park Lions, won the Illinois State Championship,
forever cementing his love for the game. Following in his older brother’s footsteps, he went on to
play golf for Bishop McNamara High School, where he could also be found playing poker with
his friends during lunch.
After high school, Ryan harnessed his culinary gift and began his career as a chef at the Elk’s
Country Club in St. Anne. After some time, he accepted a new position which required
relocating to Danville. There, he met Autumn, who would later become his wife. They eventually
moved to St. Joseph and started building their family together. He most recently worked at the
local IGA where he quickly became well-known around town for the delicious and distinctive
menus he provided.
In adulthood, Ryan was an avid fan of many Chicago sports teams, including the Bears,
Blackhawks, and most of all, the Cubs. He also enjoyed watching professional golf and would
relive his glory days by watching the Little League World Series. Above all else, he loved to
cook for people and to spend time at home with his family.
Ryan is survived by his wife, Autumn Pecchenino of St. Joseph; four children, Riley Ferber of
Catlin and Arianna, Nathan, and Enzo Pecchenino of St. Joseph; his father, Nathan Pecchenino
of St. Anne; one sister, April (Nick) Mancuso of Marseilles; and one brother, Eric (Amanda)
Pecchenino of Kankakee. Several nieces and nephews, and his in-laws.
He was preceded in death by his mother, Patricia Lamie; brother, Matthew Pecchenino; and his
maternal and paternal grandparents.
Visitation will be held on Saturday, August 23rd from 12:00PM-2:00PM at Freese’s Funeral
Home in St. Joseph, IL., with a service directly following at the funeral home.
All friends and family are invited to attend a Celebration of Life from 3:00PM-6:00PM at Homer
Lake Forest Preserve at the Walnut Hills Shelter. An outdoor luncheon will be provided, please
dress accordingly to the weather. 2573 S. Homer Lake Rd., Homer, IL 61849.

Memorials may be made to the family.

Freese FH 8/19/2025

Kyle Jacob Clevenger

RANTOUL — Kyle Jacob Clevenger, 33, of Rantoul tragically passed away at 7:27 p.m. Sunday, July 27, 2025, in Champaign.

Born on Oct. 3, 1991, at Covenant Medical Center in Urbana, Kyle had a smile that would greet everyone with warmth and love. He lived hard, loud, fast and with such intensity. He is the beloved son of Deborah Routh and spouse Bill Routh of St. Joseph and Wayne Clevenger and spouse Karen Clevenger of Farmer City.

Kyle’s greatest pride and joy is his daughter, Sienna Marie Clevenger of Urbana. Kyle is also survived by his loving grandparents Kaye Mc-Cartney of Pahrump, Nev., Bill and Joyce Clevenger of Urbana and David Petroskey of Wheaton. Kyle is survived by numerous siblings whom he adored, his brother, Ryan Clevenger, spouse Katie and son Lincoln of Saukville, Wis.; sister Jessica Beasley, spouse Travis and children Harper and Nora of Eldorado; sister Alyssa Cox, spouse Russell and children Kinsley, Kailey and Russell Jr. of Richmond, Va.; sister Ayleen Boyett, spouse Cameron and children Jace, Dawson and Jocelyn Jean of Tolono; brother Krystofer Clevenger of Champaign; sister Vyctoria Clevenger of Winter Park, Fla.; and youngest brother Benjamyn Clevenger of Farmer City.

Kyle has many beloved aunts, uncles and cousins from across the U.S., as well as many loved ones waiting for him in heaven.

He was preceded in death by his grandparents Charles (Chuck) Mc-Cartney, Susan Petroskey, Earl Routh and Mary Routh; uncles Scott Johnson, David Petroskey Jr., and Byron Evans; and an aunt, Cindy Knerr.

Kyle graduated from Urbana High School in 2010 and went on to play basketball at the University of Illinois-Springfield and Lincoln College. He was a gifted athlete in football, basketball, baseball and wrestling. He was a hard worker, excelling at many different trades. He worked in the automotive industry, landscaping industry, construction and also mastered logistics and equipment operation.

Interment will be held at a later date in Mt. Olive Cemetery, Mayview.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Heartland Bank, The Kyle Clevenger Memorial Fund, that will go to supporting his surviving daughter.

 

Carolyn Jane "CJ" Sperry Sadler

Carolyn Jane "CJ" (Sperry) Sadler, 84, died July 7, 2025, at her Autumnwood Village home in Tipton, Ind.

Born June 8, 1941, in Danville, she was the daughter of Glenn R. Sperry (1916-1995) and Leah E. Sperry (1919-2023). She married John Wm. Sadler on June 11, 1961, in Danville. He preceded her in death along with a grandson, Thomas R. Kuhn.

She is survived by daughters, Marcella "Marcy" (Thomas) Kuhn of Noblesville, Ind., and Michelle "Mick" Sadler Williams of Vancouver, Wash; grandchildren, Kenzie, Bram, Tynan (Mattie) Williams and Madeline Ling Kuhn; her brother, Larry (Jamie) Sperry; and many other family members and friends.

Carolyn graduated from Oakwood High School and St. Elizabeth Hospital's Medical Secretary School in Danville. With an incredible work ethic and boundless energy, she was employed at several businesses in Danville until her marriage. Once living on the Sadler farm west of Fithian, she was soon busy raising daughters with John and in-laws, John R. and Zelma Sadler. The rather impatient Carolyn soon found she was better suited for work in town than waiting in line at the grain elevator during harvest. She joined James L. Myers at his Ogden insurance agency and then at the First National Bank of Ogden as his secretary. Active in the National Secretaries Association, she was

honored as the Illinois Secretary of the Year. Her integrity and strength of character cracked her generation's glass ceiling from administrative work to loan officer and vice president. She thrived on helping customers' start and grow businesses as well as leading the bank's compliance and trust departments.

While her daughters were pursuing their educations, Carolyn continued hers, graduating from the School of Banking at Southern Illinois University (Carbondale) and the Graduate School of Banking at the University of Wisconsin-Madison.

She left the bank to pursue new opportunities including the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency, University of Illinois Credit Union, Frey Finance and the Champaign County Circuit Clerk's office. After retirement, Carolyn and John moved to Leesburg, Fla., where they spent nearly a decade enjoying palm trees, sunshine and entertaining. She gained new friends, created beautiful quilts and learned to paddle on a senior dragon boat team. John and Carolyn were at their best entertaining friends and family on the farm, on the Sadler boat "Seabear", or in Florida. She loved decorating her homes, shopping for beautiful clothes, especially shoes, twirling her baton and driving fast cars. CJ kept the "pedal to the metal" either when driving or operating her sewing machines.

She was a member of the Ogden United Methodist Church, Ogden and the First Presbyterian Church, Leesburg, Fla., and Fithian Woman's Club.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date.

David F. James Jr.

 
David F. James, Jr 98 of Savoy, formerly of Urbana, passed away August 8, 2025 at Carle Hospital.  David was born April 24, 1927 in St. Joseph Township, Champaign County, the son of David F. and Mildred Mae (Robbins), James Sr.  He married Aleta Stark August 22, 1945 and she preceded him in death on October 12, 1998.  He married Betty Coon on June 10, 2000 and she preceded him in death on October 9, 2024. He is also preceded in death by a brother, Robert James.

David is survived by sons, Jeff James of Havana, FL, Scott (Tina) James of Rantoul, a daughter, Cindy Williams of Urbana, grandson, Joshua James, Stepchildren, Marvin Coon of Clear Water, FL, Bonnie Kumm (Ervin) of Champaign, Susan Wedig (Rick) of St. Joseph, step grandchildren, Jennifer Gussman, Nic Wedig, Ryan Wedig, Karen Turnbough and five step great grandchildren.

David served in the Navy during WWII in the Asiatic Pacific.  After the war, he worked at Inskip Co., had his own heating company, and then worked at Reliable Plumbing & Heating.  He finished his career as a sheet metal worker at the University of Illinois in 1988.  He was a lifelong member of Quest Church, a Community of Grace, previously Grace United Methodist Church, Urbana. 

David called square dances for 32 years across Illinois and locally for Boots & Bows square dance club in which he and his wife, Aleta made many friends.  He loved music and attended dinner theaters and other music shows in the area.  He enjoyed camping with friends in the earlier years and then wintering in Florida.  He could fix anything and enjoyed doing just that!  He was an avid Bears, Bulls, and of course, an Illini fan.  Betty and David watched them all.  He also liked his coffee group outings with friends at McDonald’s.

David loved his family dearly and would do anything for them.  He loved spending time with all his family especially his grandson, Joshua.  He enjoyed bringing flowers home weekly to his wife, Betty, and texting daily messages to all of his family.  He cared deeply for all and was the best Husband, Dad, Grandpa, and Uncle.

A Gathering of Friends and Family will be on Monday August 18 at 10:00 AM Monday with A Celebration of Life Service at 11:00 AM Monday, both at Renner-Wikoff-Chapel & Crematory.  Pastor Linda Vonck will officiate.  Burial will be at Locust Grove Cemetery, Philo, following the service.

Condolences may be offered at www.renner-wikoffchapel.com

NG 8/16/2025

Rita Britt McSorley

On Thursday, July 10, 2025, Rita Britt McSorley passed peacefully into eternal rest after a long and valiant battle with cancer. She was at home surrounded by her loving family.

Rita was born December 10, 1950 in Urbana, Illinois and grew up on the Britt Farm near Ogden, Illinois. Rita was the oldest of four children born to Alfred Frank Britt and Ellen Ackerman Britt. She is survived by her loving husband of 53 years, Thomas Lee McSorley Jr. of Moseley, Virginia, her son Charles McSorley (Deborah) and daughters Carolyn McSorley (John) and Erin McSorley (Meghan) and two grandsons, Micah and Evan. She is also survived by one sister, Melinda (Hector) Trevino and two brothers Tracy and Gary (Margaret) Britt.

In addition to being a dedicated and loving mother, Rita was a diligent and successful business owner. Rita and her husband Thomas (known to many as "Mac") met while attending the University of Illinois in 1969 and worked alongside each other ever since, eventually creating Mastercraft Design, Inc., based in Manassas, Va. Together they were faithful servants to their community and members of their local church: most recently Swift Creek Presbyterian Church in Moseley, Va. formerly Chapel Springs Church (Manassas, Va., 26 years) and founding members of Harvest Church (1984-1989.)

She will be remembered by friends and colleagues as generous, joyful, and kind. A storyteller and historian, she made friends wherever she went and remembered each one.

Rita's life will be celebrated on September 5th, 11am at Swift Creek Presbyterian Church (5900 Woolridge Road, Moseley VA 23120.) The service will be live-streamed on the church website for those who would like to join virtually.

In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made in Rita's name to:

The Wood Laboratory at Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, https://labs.pathology.jhu.edu/wood/ or The University of Illinois Cancer Center, https://cancer.uillinois.edu/about-us/giving

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by InsideNoVa on Aug. 11, 2025.

Marianne Elizabeth Salmon

are sad to announce that on July 13, 2025, at the age of 83, Marianne Elizabeth Salmon (Urbana, Illinois) passed away. Family and friends are welcome to leave their condolences on this memorial page and share them with the family.

As we bid adieu to Marianne's earthly form, let us not dwell on the void left in her wake, but rather celebrate the legacy of love and inspiration Marianne has bequeathed us. For though she may have departed from our sight, her spirit remains a timeless beacon, guiding loved ones through the labyrinth of life's journey.

A graveside service was held on Monday, July 21st 2025 at 10:00 AM at the Mt Olive Cemetery.

Douglas Alan ONeill

 Douglas Alan ONeill, 64, of Homer passed away unexpectedly, at his home, on July 10, 2025, at 8:36 AM.

Doug, the son of Owen and Roxie (Summers) ONeill, was born on November 3, 1960, in Decatur IL. He married Nora “Cupcake” Wahl on July 4, 2009, in Las Vegas, NV and she survives.

Doug made many close friends throughout his 40+ year career as a Lineman working out of the I.B.E.W. Local 51. Retirement did not slow him down! Over the years he rebuilt several antique tractors, repaired lawn mowers and just about any other thing he could take apart and made time to take fishing trips with his uncle and cousin. If there was a TV around, it usually had a western show playing. Doug built and cared for his dream farm, raising cows, pigs, and chickens, growing fruit trees and bushes and maintaining a garden full of vegetables each summer to share with everyone! He didn’t know a stranger and was always ready to help anyone in need.

Survivors include his wife, Nora, mother Roxie, his children, Joseph ONeill and Lee (Brenna) ONeill both of Mauston, WI, Misty Stonecipher of Oakwood, IL, and Brandy Kurtenbach of Muncie, IL, and one sister, Laura (Dan) Arnold of WI. He also leaves behind 14 grandchildren and five great grandchildren.

Douglas was preceded in death by his father, Owen ONeill.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, July 24, 2025, from 5p-7p at Sunset Funeral Home and Cremation Center, 3940 N Vermilion Street, Danville, Illinois 61834. A Celebration of Life will be held immediately after. Miles Clark will officiate.

Memorials may be made in Doug’s memory to the Homer Food Pantry.

Please join Doug’s family in sharing memories, photos and videos on his tribute wall at www.sunsetfuneralhome.com.

Sunset Funeral Home:  https://obituaries.sunsetfuneralhome.com/douglas-doug-oneill

Anita M. Ferguson

ST. JOSEPH - Anita M. Ferguson, 66, of St. Joseph went home to be with her heavenly father on Friday (July 18, 2025).

She was born in Twin Falls, Idaho, on Aug. 26, 1958, the daughter of L.Z. and Lamonne Reece.

Anita was a devoted mother and grandmother known for her deep love for her family. She cherished her daughters and found immense happiness in spending time with her grandchildren. Her caring spirit extended beyond her family, as she often dedicated her time to volunteering and spreading the love of Jesus through her giving. In her spare time, Anita found joy in walking in nature and traveling to the beach.

She leaves behind a legacy defined by her warmth, kindness and generosity.

Anita is survived by her daughters, Darcelina (Javier) Zenil Pena and Kawaiya (Thomas) Stearly; grandchildren, Camilo, Jazive, Rhett, Melina, Wells and Kade; siblings, Danny, Kathy and Terry; and cat, Bean, all of whom will carry her memory forward in their hearts.

She was preceded in death by her loving parents in heaven.

Visitation will be on Friday, July 25, from 1 to 2 p.m. at Sunset Funeral Home & Cremation Center's Mahomet Chapel, 1102 Churchill Road, Mahomet. A funeral service to honor Anita's life will be held immediately following visitation at 2 p.m. Anita will be laid to rest in Grandview Memorial Garden, Champaign.

Anita M. Ferguson will be deeply missed, but her vibrant spirit will remain alive in the hearts of all who knew her. We find peace in knowing she is dancing among the angels with the Lord.

Published by The News-Gazette on Jul. 23, 2025.

Leon Rocker

 GIFFORD - Leon Rocker, 82, of Gifford passed into the arms of his savior on Friday (Aug. 1, 2025) at Country Health Care & Rehab, Gifford.

Leon was born Oct. 4, 1942, to Chris and Anna (Osterbur) Rocker. He was baptized and confirmed at St. Paul's Lutheran Church in Gifford and sang in the choir. He was a member of Grace Lutheran Church in Champaign, where he selected the rose bushes and other plants for the church's garden and worked in the food pantry.

His parents preceded him in death, along with a nephew and a niece.

Leon is survived by four sisters, Eileen (Kenny) Owens of Howard, Colo., Pauline (Mike) Clements of St. Joseph, Lois Forster of Chevy Chase, Md., and Patricia (Terry) Evans of Mahomet; three nephews; two nieces; and many great- and great-great-nephews and -nieces.

He made a home with John Short, his life partner of 32 years, in Champaign until John's passing in 2005. He then moved to the farm near Gifford with his dad and sister Eileen. 

At an early age, he began helping his dad and mom with farming and continued helping on the farm until they retired in 1982.

Leon graduated from Armstrong High School in 1960. He attended Illinois Commercial College after high school. A few years later, he obtained a certificate as a phlebotomist from St. Elizabeth's in Danville and worked at Country Health Care & Rehab and for a local doctor drawing blood.

Leon's passion for gardening started at an early age. His love of plants and flowers eventually led him to a position at Prairie Gardens in Champaign. He worked there for about 35 years, helping numerous customers and becoming the shrub lot manager. After Leon retired from Prairie Gardens, he gardened for others.

His sisters would like to thank the staff of Country Health Care & Rehab and Carle Hospice for the wonderful care he received, and the many visitors of family and friends.

A celebration of life service will be at 11 a.m. Wednesday, Aug. 6, at Grace Lutheran Church, 313 S. Prospect Ave., Champaign, officiated by Pastor Chris Repp. Burial will follow in Huls Cemetery, Gifford. Visitation will be held one hour prior to services at the church. Sunset Funeral Home and Cremation Center's Lux Chapel, 1551 E. Grove Ave., Rantoul, is honored to be assisting the family with funeral arrangements.

Memorial contributions may be made in Leon's name to Grace Lutheran Church, Country Health Care & Rehab or the Carle Hospice program at Carle Health Care Philanthropy.

Please join Leon's family in sharing memories, photos and video on his tribute wall at sunsetfuneralhome.com.

Published by The News-Gazette on Aug. 6, 2025.

Gary Gilliland

 
ST. JOSEPH - Gary Gilliland, 80, of St. Joseph passed away at home Sunday (Aug. 3, 2025) surrounded by family, after a courageous battle with brain cancer.

Born Sept. 19, 1944, in Danville, Gary was the son of Rosalie Lipscomb and Cloyd Gilliland. He graduated from Danville High School in 1962, where he was a standout on their golf team. He worked at Danville Metal Stamping and retired after 20 years, then began a career as an entrepreneur and painter.

Gary was preceded in death by his mother, father and brother, Jim Gilliland.

Gary is survived by his wife of 47 years, Judith (Fuller) Gilliland. He was a loving father and is survived by his children, Tod (Debbie) Gilliland, Tammi (Lou) Schurott and Jennifer Gilliland (Jason Dunavan); grandchildren, Matthew, Jayce and Cecelia; sister, Kathy (Steve) Seevers; sister-in-law, Kathy (Jim) Gilliland; and granddog, Denzo.

Graveside services will be at 2:30 p.m. Friday, Aug. 8, at Sunset Memorial Park, 3901 N. Vermillion St., Danville. All are welcome to attend the service and are invited to gather at Snappers Bar and Grill at Turtle Run Golf Course following the service.

Flowers may be sent to the service as a tribute to Gary's life and legacy. The family wants to thank Becky Pitts, Transitions Hospice Care and Sunset Funeral Home for their compassionate care and support.

Published by The News-Gazette on Aug. 6, 2025.

Lois E. Jones

 
MAHOMET - Lois E. Jones, 81, of Mahomet passed away Monday (Aug. 4, 2025) in Urbana.

She was born in Monmouth on Aug. 29, 1943, the daughter of the Rev. Harold and Lois Bodeen. On April 12, 1964, Lois married her beloved husband, Philip Jones, and he survives.

Lois is also survived by her sons, Brad (Sara) Jones and Tim (Michelle) Jones; grandchildren, Tony (Kahla), Morgan (Tyler), Brook (Maria), Gray, Quentin, Myles, Pearl, Beau and Jediah; great-grandchildren, River, Dottie, Isla and Eden; and sisters, Shari MacFarlane and Anne (Pete) Durst.

She was preceded in death by her parents, the Rev. Harold and Lois Bodeen; father- and mother-in-law, Howard and Bernice Jones; and great-niece, Shawna Durst.

Lois dedicated her life to caring for others, working as a registered nurse for over 35 years after receiving her nursing degree from Methodist College in Peoria in 1964. Her life was marked by an unwavering commitment to her patients, who were often touched by her warmth and compassion.

Lois took great joy in her family, and she treasured attending their many activities. She also enjoyed the Friday Night Lights and was an avid Illini and Chicago Cubs fan.

A memorial visitation will be from 5 to 8 p.m. Friday, Aug. 8, at the Mahomet United Methodist Church, 1302 E. South Mahomet Road, Mahomet. A memorial service honoring Lois' life will be at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 9, at the church. Sunset Funeral Home and Cremation Center's Mahomet Chapel, 1102 Churchill Road, is honored to be assisting the family with funeral arrangements.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Lois' name to the Mahomet Helping Hands Food Pantry. Please join Lois' family in sharing memories, photos and videos on her tribute wall at sunsetfuneralhome.com.

Published by The News-Gazette on Aug. 7, 2025.