Shirley Alberta (Anderson) Kelley

 Shirley Alberta (Anderson) Kelley, of St. Joseph, IL, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend, passed away peacefully on October 26, 2025 at the remarkable age of 96.

Shirley was born August 19, 1929, in Homer, Illinois, one of eight children of Edgar and Nellie Mae Anderson. She graduated from the Illinois Commercial College in Champaign, IL On April 3, 1955, she married Donald Lou Kelley, and they were married for 54 years until Don’s passing in 2009. The couple had four sons: Michael (and Becky) Kelley of St. Joseph, IL; Kevin (and Connie) Kelley, of Sarasota, FL; Tim (and Kathy) Kelley, Leland, NC; and Kerry (and Wynne) Kelley of Bolingbrook, IL. She was the proud grandmother of seven grandchildren and great-grandmother of six great-grandchildren. She has one remaining sibling, Donald Anderson (and Gayle), of Las Vegas, NV.

Shirley worked as a secretary in a law office for several years and later as a secretary for Urbana Public School District 116 for over 20 years. She was a dedicated mother and source of unending love and strength for her sons. She enjoyed putting together complex jigsaw puzzles and sudoku. She enjoyed Urbana HIgh School sports and was an avid Illini basketball and football fan. She will be deeply missed and forever cherished.

She is preceded in death by her husband, her parents and six siblings.

Graveside service will be held at Grandview Memorial Gardens, 4112 W Bloomington Rd, Champaign, IL 61822 at 11:00 A.M..

https://www.freesefh.com/obituary/Shirley-Kelley

Ragina Rae Chesnut Lindley

It is with great sadness that the family of Ragina Rae Lindley announces her passing. After a long and courageous battle with cancer, Ragina passed away peacefully on Friday, September 12, 2025, at home, surrounded by her loving family.

Born on September 3, 1970, in Danville, Illinois, to John and Judy Chesnut,
Ragina graduated from Unity High School in 1988, where she was a varsity letter winner in basketball and softball. She loved sports, horses, her family, and her friends. Sports brought out her competitive spirit, the family’s horses were a great source of pride, and she was blessed with a supportive family and many wonderful friendships.

Ragina also loved spending time at the beach and the Michigan sand dunes with her family, and she never missed a chance to watch Taylor and Gracie play in their many sports—cheering them on at every game, no matter the location or time.

She was the proud mother of Taylor and Gracie, and “Mimi” to Elijah and Beckham. On December 7, 2014, she married Brian.

Ragina was a longtime employee of Carle and Health Alliance, where she was dedicated to ensuring that every patient received the best possible care.

She is survived by her husband, Brian; her children, Taylor (and his girlfriend, Bethanie) and Gracie; her grandchildren, Elijah and Beckham; and her sisters, Ramona (Pete) Harrison and Rebecca Chesnut. She was preceded in death by her parents, John and Judy Chesnut.

A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.

https://evergreencremationservices.net/obituaries?name=ragina-rae-lindley

James Nelson Haan

 
We are saddened to announce the passing of James Nelson Haan (42) on October 10, 2025, at his home in Ogden, Illinois. He was born on May 11, 1983, and leaves behind a wife, children, mother, brothers, and many others who loved him.

Jim was known for his love of studying languages, exploring new destinations through travel, and playing ultimate frisbee. He could and would strike up a conversation with anyone in any language. This always impressed locals when he traveled abroad. His passion for reading and learning was obvious to those around him.

Despite his many talents and hobbies, Jim found his greatest joy in his role as a father to his three children, Lincoln (8), Quincy (5), and Jensen (5). He loved being silly with them. Their laughter from being chased by him brought so much fun and happiness into our home. Magic carpet rides around the house were a staple. They would often be found outside in the front yard playing basketball, baseball, soccer, and even games they made up together. He encouraged them to be curious and ask questions. Their list of things to research together was always growing.

Jim was a committed husband to his adored wife, Raina, whom he married in 2014. Together, they created a beautiful family and shared many adventures that will be treasured forever.

Although Jim's battle with cancer was a long and hard fought one, he faced it with courage and an unwavering spirit of hope due to his love for Jesus Christ. He will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him, but his legacy will live on through his children.

A memorial service will be held at the Ogden Church of the Nazarene at 206 Market Street Ogden, Illinois, on October 20, 2025, at 6 p.m. A private family burial will be at a later date. In lieu of flowers, please consider contributing to the Haan Children Memorial Fund at Longview Bank. You can visit any bank location or venmo HaanChildrenMemorial.

https://evergreencremationservices.net/obituaries?name=james-nelson-haan

David K. Cox

 David K. Cox, age 63, passed away peacefully on Saturday October 11, 2025, at Kirby Medical Center in Monticello, Illinois. 

Born on September 9, 1962, in Greencastle, Indiana, David was the son of the late Ronald E. Cox and Betty Joanne (McCloud) Clark, and stepson of Robert Clark.  He was husband to Lori Cox and shared a special loving bond with Colleen Cantu.  David was a proud father to Jonathan (Tara) and Ashley, and a cherished grandfather to Cassandra, Raynor and Archer.  He shared many wonderful childhood memories with his sister Teresa (Mike) and was uncle to her children Andrea, Kayla, and Michael. 

David lived a life full of service, leadership, and passion for his community.  He served as Mayor of Bement, where he worked tirelessly to better the lives of those he represented.  As a respected attorney he was known for his integrity, dedication, and advocacy.

A lifelong supporter of youth and community sports, David was a beloved soccer coach for the Monticello Recreation program, and at the High School of St. Thomas More. His commitment to the sport led him to found the Monticello Soccer Club – the Pirates – creating a space for young athletes to learn, grow, and thrive.  David was also an Eagle Scout, a distinction that reflected his strong values, leadership, and service from a young age.  He was a lifelong fan of the Indiana University Hoosiers and it was there that he studied law.

There will be a visitation on Friday, October 17, 2025, from 6:00pm to 7:30pm at Blair-Owens Funeral Home in Mahomet. A funeral Mass will be held on Saturday, October 18, 2025, at 12 noon at Our Lady of the Lake Catholic Church in Mahomet. Burial will immediately follow at Bement Cemetery.  

Those who knew David will remember his generosity, wisdom, sense of humor and dedication to his family and community.

https://www.owensfuneralhomes.com/obituary/David-Cox

Carole Nussmeyer

 Carole Nussmeyer of Urbana, formerly of Sidney, passed away on October 16, 2025, at Clark Lindsey Village in Urbana.

Carole was born on December 15, 1934, in Villa Grove to Leslie and Charlotte Richmond Vaughn. She graduated from Villa Grove High School and attended Eastern Illinois University.

She married Carl Nussmeyer on January 12,1954 at the Villa Grove Baptist Church. They were married for 55 years until his death on August 15, 2009. They farmed south of Sidney for 40 years until they moved to Sidney upon their retirement from farming in 1993.

Carole was an active member of the Sidney United Church until her health declined. She belonged to the Women’s Fellowship and served in many positions at the church over the years.

She spent her last years at Clark Lindsey Retirement Village in Urbana. She enjoyed family life, reading, crossword puzzles, and Facebook.

Carole was proceeded in death by her parents, her husband, son Mark and brother Douglas Vaughn, Sr. of La Porte, TX.

Survivors include her daughters Amy Nussmeyer of Tolono and Joy (Joe) Pisula of Savoy, and daughter-in-law Kim Nussmeyer of Divernon. Granddaughters include Kam (Ryan) Shick of Marion, Nikki (Horacio) Chavez of Lombard, and Kati (John) Kleber of Thompson Station, TN. Carole was blessed with 4 great-grandchildren and 3 great step-grandchildren.

A private service will be held. Freese Funeral Home, Sidney is in charge of the arrangements.

Memorial donations can be made to the Sidney Community Library, 217 South David Street, Sidney IL 61877.

Freese FH 10/20/2025

Patricia Ann Varvel

 
Patricia Ann Varvel, 97, of Champaign, formerly of Homer, passed away at 2:00 PM, Thursday, October 16, 2025 at Bickford Senior Living, Champaign.

Funeral services will be 11:00 AM, Monday, October 20, 2025 at Homer United Methodist Church, Homer with Rev. Bobbi Dykema officiating.  Burial will be at Mt. Hope Cemetery, Sidney.  Visitation will be from 10 to 11AM, Monday at the church.  Freese Funeral Home, Sidney is handling arrangements.

Mrs. Varvel was born August 6, 1928 in rural Homer, a daughter to Glenn Franklin and Ethel Grace Trees.  She married Leander Nelson Varvel on March 9, 1952 at the Sidney Methodist Church, he preceded in death on November 9, 1996.  She is survived by a daughter; Cheryl (Bruce) Cook, a son; Rick Varvel, four granddaughters; Brandy (Mark) Glowski, Kacy Varvel (Lucas McNutt), Kristen Cook and Angela (Mike) Knigge, four great-grandchildren; Emmett and Ella Glowski and Cameron and Parker Knigge.

She graduated from Sidney High School and Barry-Castle Business School.

She was employed at the farm bureau after high school and then became a homemaker after her children arrived.  She was very active in her church and community, including but not limited to, Cub Scouts, 4-H Leader, volunteer at the library, she had a cake business, and was a member of Home Extension for over 50 years.  She loved to sew, work in her yard, play the organ and was a great cook.

She loved being a mom, grandma, and great-grandma.  She was happiest when surrounded by family.  Her four granddaughters were the light of her life; always having something special for them to do to make their visit special.  She was so excited when the great-grandchildren started arriving and they had a special place in her heart.  We were so lucky to have her as our mom, grandmother, and great-grandmother.  She was loving, patient, kind, and thoughtful and we will miss her dearly.

We would like to thank the Homer Fire Department for their help while mom was home, Bickford Senior Living for their kindness and care the past three years and Traditions Hospice for their comfort and care these past few months.

Memorials may made to Homer Methodist Church, American Diabetes Association or Homer Fire Department.

David Lareau

 

David Lareau, 69, of Allerton, Illinois, passed peacefully in his home on Tuesday, October 14th with his family by his side. He leaves behind his wife Phyllis Lareau and children Angie (Scott) Duensing, Eric (Alex) Lareau, and Aaron (Nicole) Lareau; as well as his 9 grandchildren: Kiley Duensing, Avah Lareau, Kara Duensing, Kadyn Fitz, Leah Duensing, Makenna Lareau, Layne Lareau, Berkley Headid, and Lilliana Lareau. He also leaves behind several nieces and nephews. 

He is preceded in death by his father, Wayne Lareau; his mother, Mary Lareau, and his two brothers Dane Lareau and Dan Lareau.

David and Phyllis were high school sweethearts and enjoyed 49 years of marriage together. David started his career working on his family farm and then worked at FS and Sygma. David ended his career doing what he enjoyed most - driving a semi for McComas Trucking. David loved riding his side by side around town with his dog Charlie. He loved to visit with all of his friends. He spent the last few years of his life enjoying it to the fullest with Charlie and Phyllis by his side. 

Visitation will be from 10:00 to 11:30 AM, Saturday, October 25, 2025 at Freese Funeral Home, Sidney with a Celebration of Life to follow at 11:30AM.

Freese FH 10/20/2025

Basil Aumiller

 
Basil Aumiller died peacefully on April 18, 2024, at the age of 91.

He was born in Iuka, IL and grew up in St. Joseph, IL where he was a lettered high school athlete and a bit of a hell raiser. He proudly served in the US Army during the Korean War.

He met and married his wife, Pat, and moved south for him to work for the Federal Grain Service and for Pat and he to raise their family. After retiring from the FGS, Pat and Basil packed up their stuff and “headed for the hills” of Arkansas. They lived in Searcy County for over 30 years.

He loved his family, coffee, bologna sandwiches, his homestead in Arkansas, and the countless friends he made throughout his 91 years.

After being welcomed into the arms of his Savior, we’d like to think that Pat, who predeceased Basil, will be waiting with a pot of “cowboy coffee” and a to-do list.

Survivors include a sister, daughters, sons-in-law, grandchildren, great grandchildren, brothers-in-law, nieces, and nephews.

In lieu of flowers, please donate to the Chimes Fire Department, 169 Housley Loop, Leslie, AR 72645, a volunteer organization that our dad was incredibly proud of.

A small graveside service will be held at the Southeast Veterans Cemetery in Slidell, Louisiana, in May.

“Thank you to the Searcy County community, our friends, and our family who helped us with our parents’ journey.”

https://www.emountainwave.com/basil-aumiller/

https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/269671168/basil_bennie-aumiller

Gary D. Gannon

 
Garry D. Gannon, 78, of St. Joseph passed away at 4:32 P.M. Sunday September 14, 2025 at Carle Foundation Hospital, Urbana.

Garry was born June 19, 1947 in Danville. The son of Earl and Priscilla (Humrichouse)Gannon. He married Jan Mitchell on April 29, 1972 in Danville. She survives.

 He is also survived by his children; Tammy (Jeff) Purcell of St. Joseph, Tara (Tony) Bender of S.C., Todd (Jennifer) Gannon of Savoy. Five grandchildren; Leigh (Ryan) Hall,

Tiffany Byrne, Brycen (Tanner) Bender, Samantha (T.J.) Knowles, Sara Gannon. Four great-grandchildren. Sister Sheryll (Jim) Craig of Indianola.

 He was preceded in death by his parents, brother Lyle Gannon, two nephews Christopher Ward and Dale Mitchell.

 Garry was a veteran of the U.S. Army serving in Vietnam. He retired from the University of Illinois with 20 years of service. He was a member of the Plumbers and pipe fitters Union Local 149 for 50 years. Garry was a life member of the St. Joseph American Legion Post 634.

 Garry was a jack of all trades and a master of all. He enjoyed tinkering, building, and fixing just about anything. He was a dedicated husband, father, and grandfather.

 A visitation and celebration of Garry's life will be held from 4:00 P.M. to 7:00 P.M. Friday September 19, 2025 at Freese Funeral Home 302 E. Grand Ave. Military honors will be conducted by St. Joseph American Legion Post 634 at 7:00 P.M.

 Memorials can be made to the St. Joseph American Legion Post 634.

Freese FH 9/19/2025

Cynthia "Leigha" Youck

Cynthia “Leigha” Youck was called home to the Lord on September 17, 2025 in Portsmouth, Ohio surrounded by her loving family.  Leigha could light up a room with her smile and warm a heart with her kind words or the hugs she loved to give.  Leigha was an expert shopper, and she delighted in using her skills for all holidays (especially Christmas), birthdays, special occasions or a whim.  She was sweet, spunky and fun.  Leigha enjoyed decorating, gardening, dancing and relaxing on the boat with family and friends.  She was a devout Christian and was proud to proclaim her faith to those around her.  She strengthened her faith as an active member of several congregations and in private prayer and meditation.  Leigha was a loving wife and a devoted mother, grandmother and great-grandmother and loved being with the extended family.

Leigha was born in Rantoul, Illinois on August 7, 1955 to Samuel and Barbara Bever.  She had three sisters Elizabeth (“Lynn”), Lori, Lisa and a brother Matthew.  Leigh was a 1973 graduate of Rantoul Township High School (Illinois) and attended Eastern Illinois University where she studied Early Childhood Development.  She used those childhood development skills at Cunningham Children’s Home and Heritage School District but was happiest when nannying for individual families.  

Leigha is survived by her loving husband Bill, daughters Rebecca Davis (Gene), Kelly Youck, Caitlin Calloway (Adam), grandchildren Paige Flesner (Brandon), Parker Flesner, Peyton Flesner, Chloe Calloway and Vivian Calloway and one great-grandchild Kayson.  She is also survived by her sister Lori Ehmen (Charlie) and brother Matthew Bever (Natasha).  

Leigha is predeceased by her father Samuel and mother Barbara along with her sisters Lynn and Lisa.

Funeral services at 10:30 A.M. Thursday September 25, 2025 at Freese Funeral Home 302 E. Grand Ave. St. Joseph. Pastor Scott Smith will officiate. Burial will be in Beckman Cemetery,Rantoul. Visitation will be held Wednesday September 24, 2025 from 5:00 P.M. to 7:00 P.M. at the funeral home.

Freese FH 9/19/2025

Marie Minniear

 GIFFORD — Marie Minniear, born on March 20, 1926, in Gifford, passed away peacefully in her beloved hometown on Sept. 12, 2025.

A spirited and feisty individual, Marie touched the lives of all who knew her with her vivacious personality.

Marie is survived by her children, Darrell (Joyce) Minniear, Chuck Minniear, Cindy (Charles) Schlatter and Gaile (Gary) Bradford. Her legacy continues through her eight grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; and two great-great-grandchildren. Marie’s greatest accomplishment was being a devoted mother, and she embraced her role with pride and dedication.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Orville and Uvah Alcorn; her brother, Raymond Alcorn; and her son, Larry Minniear, who all hold a special place in her heart.

Marie found joy in the simple pleasures, whether it be playing bingo or exploring games on her laptop. She also enjoyed the companionship of her cats.

Visitation will be held on Tuesday, Sept. 16, from 10 to 11 a.m. followed by a funeral service at 11 a.m., both taking place at Sunset Funeral Home and Cremation Center’s Lux Chapel 1551 E. Grove Ave., Rantoul. She will be interred in Welles Cemetery in Penfield.

Arrangements have been made at Sunset Funeral Home and Cremation Center’s Lux Chapel 1551 E. Grove Ave., Rantoul.

Please join Marie’s family in sharing memories, photos and videos on her tribute wall at sunsetfuneralhome.com.

Barbara Cannon

 
URBANA - Barbara Cannon, 94, formerly of Urbana, passed away peacefully on Saturday (Sept. 6, 2025).

Born in Tuscola on June 7, 1931, to Frank and Bertha Hartman, Barb graduated from Tuscola High School in 1949. She married Clifford Cannon on June 13, 1951.

Barbara Cannon was preceded in death by her husband, Clifford; brothers, Charles Hartman and James Hartman; sisters, Virginia Bailey, Dorothy Parker and Catherine McCumber; and longtime partner, Chuck Brooks.

She is survived by her children, Michael (Eva) Cannon and Patricia Cecil; grandchildren, Steve (Sarah) Peters, Alexandra Cannon, Andrea Cannon and Rebekah Cannon; three great-grandchildren; and the families of nieces and nephews. Barb will be greatly missed by her loving family and the many close friends who felt like family.

She is fondly remembered for the years of Cannon's Dairy Lane in St. Joseph, where she cherished everyone and loved making people smile and laugh. Subsequently, she worked at the Champaign County Nursing Home, Carle Pavillion, and as a part-time caregiver. In retirement, Barb really enjoyed traveling with Chuck and Cat.

While in long-term care at Heartland, University Rehab and Hilltop, Barbara continued as a bright, always complimentary light. She appreciated all the friendships she developed with staff members. She considered you all her family. She will be remembered for her infectious laugh and warm kindness that made everyone feel at home.

There will be a visitation from 9 to 10 a.m. Monday, Sept. 15, at Owens Funeral Home, 101 N. Elm St., Champaign. The funeral Mass will follow at 10:30 a.m. at Holy Cross Catholic Church, 405 W. Clark St., Champaign. Entombment will be in Mount Hope Mausoleum, Champaign.

https://www.legacy.com/us/obituaries/news-gazette/name/barbara-cannon-obituary?id=59412405

Richard Dean "Dick" Reinhold

 
URBANA - Richard Dean "Dick" Reinhold, 90, of Urbana passed away Tuesday (Sept. 9, 2025) at home with his family.

Richard was born on June 26, 1935, in Urbana, to William and Rosa (Hren) Reinhold.  

He was preceded in death by his parents and all of his siblings, Katherine (Entler), Frederick, Walter, Edward, Robert, Gene and Sharon.

He is survived by his wife of almost 70 years, Betty Jean (Johnson); daughter, Kelly (John) Vogel of Royal; son, Jeff (Brenda) Reinhold of Champaign; and beloved granddaughters, Sara (Devin) McDermand of Urbana and Megan Reinhold of Clinton. He also leaves behind many "kids" he loved as his own throughout the years, including Brian, Nicholas, Lauren, Rachel and Robin.

Graduating from Urbana High School in 1955, Richard was a standout wrestler and football player. He won three letters in football and two in wrestling. He was a two-time state qualifier in wrestling. As a junior, Richard was awarded the Pittman Memorial Football Award for outstanding linebacker of the year and was All-State on the Chicago Sun Times team as a senior offensive guard. He received a football scholarship to the University of Illinois and married his high school sweetheart, Betty, on Dec. 3, 1955. Due to continued military presence after the Korean War's armistice, he was not able to take the field with the Illini and instead served in the Army as an MP in Korea until 1959. In 1983, he was inducted into the Urbana High Sports Hall of Fame.

Richard was employed with Northern Illinois Water Corp for 42 years before retiring and also worked as the press-box elevator operator at gate 18 in Memorial Stadium, until its reconstruction in 2008. He never missed an Illini home game and enjoyed his time with the reporters and box owners.

Richard was a 50-year member of the St. Joseph Freemason Lodge No. 970 A.F. & A.M., a St. Joseph Webelos Pack Leader, and longtime coach of the Champaign Wild Cats pee-wee football team. He enjoyed fishing, camping, traveling, riding his bicycle, and truly lived each day to its fullest.

A memorial service with honors will be held at noon Thursday, Sept. 18, at Renner-Wikoff Chapel, 1900 Philo Road, Urbana, with the Rev. Lutz Braunig officiating. Visitation will be prior to the memorial service, beginning at 10 a.m. Cremation rites have been accorded.  

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to your favorite children's charity.

https://www.legacy.com/us/obituaries/news-gazette/name/richard-reinhold-obituary?id=59412399

Mary Ann Griffet

URBANA — Mary Ann Griffet, 84, of Homer passed away peacefully on Friday (Sept. 5, 2025) at Carle Foundation Hospital, Urbana. She was born on March 2, 1941, in Pontiac, Mich., the daughter of Leslie Hubert and Loyal Delores (Hudson) Dunning.

Mary is survived by her husband, Michael Griffet of Homer; daughters, Trudy Parks of Urbana, Twila of Tolono and Trina of Mahomet; eight grandchildren; 21 great-grandchildren; and her siblings, Paul Dunning and Vivian Ellis.

She graduated from Marion High School in Marion, and worked as a clerk at Colwell Systems/ Patterson Office Supply in Champaign for 28 years.

Mary will be remembered for her love of family, her generosity, and the many lives she touched. Her devotion, laughter and wisdom were gifts to everyone who knew her.

A private viewing for the family will be held at Renner-Wikoff Funeral Home, Urbana. Condolences may be shared online at renner-wikoffchapel. com. 

NG 9/9/2025

Shirley Huls

PONTIAC — Shirley Huls, a beloved daughter, sister and friend, passed away peacefully on Saturday (Sept. 6, 2025) in Pontiac.

Born Sept. 21, 1951, in Champaign, Shirley’s life was marked by her kind spirit and warm smile.

Shirley was involved in the Futures Unlimited Inc. program and was a resident at Mosaic Independent Living in Pontiac.

Shirley leaves behind her sister, Pat (Tom) Crane; along with several cherished cousins and her dear friend Marcie Buhr. Their collective memories of love will forever honor the joyful spirit and smile that Shirley brought into their lives.

She enjoyed her shared love of music with her mother, doing needlework, and spending time with her housemates, friends and family. She was a member of Immanuel Lutheran Church for many years and then became a member of First Lutheran Church in Pontiac. Shirley was a resident of Martin Luther Home in Beatrice, Neb., for several years. She later moved to a new location developed by Martin Luther Homes, which later became Mosaic in Pontiac.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Martin and Lorene (Aden) Huls, and grandparents.

A visitation to celebrate Shirley’s lifewill be held on Thursday, Sept. 11, from 10 to 11 a.m. at Sunset Funeral Home’s Lux location, 1551 E. Grove Ave., Rantoul, IL 61866. A service will follow at 11 a.m. Shirley will be interred in Huls Cemetery, Gifford.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, memorials may be made in Shirley’s name to Mosaic in Pontiac or Huls Cemetery in Flatville. Please join Shirley’s family in sharing memories, photos and videos on her tribute wall at sunsetfuneralhome. com.

 

Sharon Jane Morisette

 LONGVIEW — Sharon Jane Morrisette, B.S. Ed, M.S., CAD, 76, of Longview passed away Saturday, Aug. 30, 2025, at Carle Foundation Hospital, Urbana. Born Oct. 6, 1948, in Chillicothe, Sharon lived a life devoted to love, family, learning and service.

For 56 years, she shared a joyful marriage with her husband, Fred, building a partnership rooted in family, friendship and faith. Together, they raised two daughters, Lahn and Lisa Jane, of whom Sharon was immensely proud. She was a cherished wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, teacher and friend — loved deeply by all who knew her. Sharon will be remembered not only for her wisdom and encouragement, but also for her boundless kindness, compassionate heart, engaging smile, and infectious laugh that brought warmth to every room she entered.

Teaching was Sharon’s true calling. For more than three decades in the classroom, she inspired students in science, English and social studies, instilling curiosity and confidence in young minds. Even after retiring from Unit Seven Schools in Tolono, she pressed forward with her own education, earning her master’s degree and pursuing a Ph.D. in her 60s. She taught and mentored student teachers in the classroom at the University of Illinois, influenced the curriculum, and, later, following her full retirement, she returned to the classroom as a substitute teacher at Tolono Junior High, always reminding those around her that learning never ends.

Her impact extended far beyond the classroom. Sharon was active in her church, community and book clubs. She deeply cherished her “Mary Poppins” group of lifelong friends from the Fischer movie theater in Danville. She lived her life with compassion and perseverance, showing by example that true education is about shaping lives with love.

Through the gift of organ donation, Sharon continues her lifelong lesson in caring for others. Just as she nurtured generations of students and gave of herself to her family and community, she now offers the gift of life and healing to others in need.

She is survived by her husband, Fred Morrisette of Longview; daughters, Lahn Henn and husband Andrew of Fayetteville, N.C., and Lisa Jane Morrisette of La Mesa, Calif., and husband Jon Zapp of Carbondale; grandchildren, Jordan Neill and wife Sierra and their children, Lincoln, Britton and Callum of Brocton, Jacob Neill and wife Cailynne and their children, Finley and Sutton of Hume, and Madison Henn of Marshall; siblings, Kai Lynch and husband Dale of Chesapeake, Va., Scott Richey and wife Linda of Rossville, Ind., and Cindy Anderson and husband Jim of Lafayette, Ind.; as well as her beloved nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, James and Marilyn Richey.

A celebration of Sharon’s life will be held on Saturday, Sept. 13. Visitation will be from 2 to 5 p.m., with the funeral service following, at the Villa Grove United Methodist Church.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Villa Grove United Methodist Church.

Sharon’s story reminds us all that one life lived with purpose, kindness and love can change the world in ways that never end.

NG 9/9/2025

Gayle Robert Thomas

 
NOKOMIS, Fla. - Gayle Robert Thompson, 86, died Wednesday, Aug. 13, 2025, in Nokomis, Fla.

He was born Dec. 12, 1938, in St. Joseph, to Robert and Almedah White Thompson. A 1957 graduate of Unity High School, Gayle graduated in 1961 from the United States Naval Academy, where he became a naval aviator and military test pilot. He was a member of the eight-man rowing team that won the Olympic Trials competition to represent the United States at the 1960 Olympic Games in Rome, Italy, where the team finished fifth. In 1991, Gayle was honored as one of the first names included in the Champaign Park District's Olympic Tribute at Dodds Park. In 2022, he was inducted into the Unity High School Athletic Hall of Fame.

He is survived by his son, Jeff of White Lake Township, Mich.; grandson, Garrison of Westland, Mich.; granddaughter, Caitlyn of White Lake, Mich.; sister, Jan Renn of Goreville; and sister, Judy Wirth of Naples, Fla.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Susan; son, Greg; and sister, Barbara Watson.

https://www.legacy.com/us/obituaries/news-gazette/name/gayle-thompson-obituary?id=59370969

A celebration of life is planned for a later date, following his interment in Sarasota National Cemetery in Florida.

Elizabeth "Betty" Ann Thomas

 
Elizabeth “Betty” Ann Thomas, 95 of Philo, passed away at 9:24 AM, Saturday, September 6, 2025 at home.

Funeral services will be 11:00AM, Thursday, September 11, 2025 at Countryside United Methodist Church, Urbana with Rev. Jeff Stahl officiating.  Burial will be at Locust Grove Cemetery, Philo.  Visitation will be from 5 to 7PM Wednesday, September 10, 2025 at Freese Funeral Home, Sidney.

Mrs. Thomas was born July 25, 1930 in Arcola, a daughter to Perry Harrison and Nellie Reed Gardener.  She married Harold H Thomas Sr. on September 14, 1946, married a week shy of 79 years, he survives.

Also surviving are five children; Sharon (Larry) Campbell of Genesco, Harold (Veronica) Thomas Jr. of St. Joseph, Peggy (Wayne) Clem of Philo, John (Ruth) Thomas of Philo, and Joseph (Audra) Thomas of Champaign, 15 grandchildren and 20 great-grandchildren.

Since moving to Philo in 1955, Betty was very active in Junior and Senior Women’s Club, Home Extension and American Legion Auxiliary.  She also was a Den Mother for Cub Scouts and taught Sunday School for many years.

She served on the Champaign District United Methodist Women’s board for 12 years, including 4 years as District President.  She served on the board of the Cunningham Children’s Home and the Central Conference Board.  She also served as President of the Untied Methodist Women at the Countryside United Methodist Church.

Freese FH 9/8/2025 https://www.freesefh.com/notices/ElizabethBetty-Thomas

John Robert "Bob" Wilson

 FITHIAN — John Robert “Bob” Wilson, 87, of Fithian died Tuesday (Aug. 26, 2025) at Accolade Healthcare of Paxton on Pells.

Funeral services will be at 11 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 30, at Freese Funeral Home, 302 E. Grand, St. Joseph. Pastor Todd Creason will officiate. Burial will take place in Stearns Cemetery, Muncie. There will be a visitation from 10 a.m. until the time of the service at the funeral home.

Bob was born on June 18, 1938, in Urbana, the youngest of two boys born to the late G. Woodrow and Thelma Phillips Wilson. A 1956 Oakwood Township High School graduate, Bob was a National Honor Society inductee and lettered in both football and basketball. While at the University of Illinois, Bob was a member of the Alpha Gamma Rho fraternity, and he received a bachelor’s in agriculture in 1960. Bob was also a veteran, serving in the U.S. Army Reserve from 1961 to 1967.

A fifth-generation farmer, Bob farmed his entire life in Vermilion and Champaign counties. Also a pilot, Bob especially enjoyed flying his yellow 1947 J-3 Piper Cub, checking crops from the air. People observing him from the ground may have witnessed his “wing-waggle” of greeting as he flew by. Bob was very well read and had eclectic interests ranging from astronomy to opera.

Bob was also a loyal member of the NRA, and was a collector of many items, including World War I- and II-era memorabilia.

Bob was married to Sandra Brown for 30 years and to Stella Fairchild Marvel for 20 years.

He is survived by his only daughter, Julie Wilson of Appomattox, Va.; son-in-law, Roy Wilson of Appomattox; stepsons, Jay Marvel of Land O’ Lakes, Fla., and Kirk Marvel; grandchildren, Thomas and Chloe Wilson of Appomattox; and brother, William A. Wilson of St. Joseph.

The family wishes to show much gratitude to the caregivers from Nurse Next Door of Ogden, Brookdale Assisted Living of Urbana, Accolade Healthcare of Paxton on Pells and Transitions Hospice.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society or a charity of the donor’s choice. Condolences may be made at freesefh.com.