Orville M. Haxton, 78, of Hoopeston, IL, passed away at 5:20 P.M. Thursday March 25, 2021 at his home.  He was born December 10, 1942, in Milford, IL, the son of LeRoy Haxton and Lilian (Vernon) Buhrmester.  He married Donna Gay Mitchell on October 6, 1979, in East Lynn, IL.  She preceded him in death on July 9, 2014. 

He is survived by two daughters, Tracy (Bob) Whitis of Surprise, AZ and Rebecca McKenzie of California; one step-daughter, Betsy (Dan) Smith of Tuscola, IL; one son, Eric Haxton of Surprise, AZ and one step-son, Scott (Sharon) James of Catlin, IL; two sisters, Judy (Wayne) Frederick of Hoopeston, IL and Glenda Evans of Lexington, KY; one brother, Jim (Linda) Buhrmester of Milford, IL; fourteen grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews. 

In addition to his wife, he was preceded in death by parents; one sister, Peggy Brammer; and one brother, Harvey Haxton. 

Orville worked at Essex in Hoopeston and later worked at Pillsbury as inventory/quality control for many years. He served in the United States Army.  He attended the Milford Christian Church and was a member of the Hoopeston Rotary Parents of Exchange. Orville enjoyed playing cards, collecting model cars, and loved making woodworking items for his grandchildren.  He also enjoyed bowling and was inducted into the Hoopeston Bowling Hall of Fame. 

A visitation will be held 11:00 A.M. – 12:00 P.M. Wednesday March 31, 2021 at Anderson Funeral Home 427 E. Main St. Hoopeston, IL.  The funeral service will follow the visitation and will begin at 12:00 P.M. Wednesday at the funeral home with Pastor Brent Zastrow officiating.  Burial will follow in Floral Hill Cemetery in Hoopeston with military rites being accorded by the Cissna Park American Legion Post #527. 

Memorials may be made to the Hoopeston Animal Rescue Team 901 W. Main St. Hoopeston, IL 60942.  

Please visit www.anderson-funeral-home.com

Delmar Dean Langellier, 83, of Hoopeston, IL, passed away at 11:30 P.M. Wednesday January 6, 2021 at his home.  He was born July 16, 1937, in Ambia, IN, the son of Raymond Langellier and Wilma Inza (Hicks) Langellier. 

He is survived by one daughter, Lisa Langellier of Hoopeston, IL; one son, Kenneth Wayne Langellier of Cave City, KY; four sisters, Barbara (Steve) Blackwell, Donna Caspers, Gloria Henthorn, and Carolyn Sue Langellier; three brothers, Ray, Ronald, and Gordon Langellier; two grandchildren, Nathaniel Andrew Langellier and Phoebe Nicole (Christopher) Crews; and one great-grandchild, Alita Hope Langellier. 

He was preceded in death by his parents; one sister, Betty; and four brothers, Louis, Morris, Lloyd, and Gerald. 

Delmar was a farmer for over fifty years.  He served in the Illinois National Guard and attended Prairie Green Church of Christ.  He enjoyed driving through the countryside, going out to eat with his family and friends, attending farm sales, and drinking coffee with his farm friends. 

Cremation rites have been accorded.  A graveside service will be held at 11:00 A.M. Saturday March 27, 2021 at Sugar Creek Cemetery in Stockland, IL. 

Please visit www.anderson-funeral-home.com to view Delmar’s eternal tribute page and to send the family condolences. 

Anderson Funeral Home in Hoopeston is handling the arrangements. 

Kevin Nye Eells, 60, of Hoopeston, IL, passed away at 5:58 P.M. Tuesday March 2, 2021 at his home. 

He was born April 25, 1960, in Danville, IL, the son of Edson and Phyllis (Baier) Eells.  He married Janet Egnew on July 9, 1983 in Hoopeston.  She preceded him in death on October 21, 1996.   

He is survived by one son, Jacob (Desarae) Eells of Covington, IN; one sister, Nancy (Bill) Jenkins of Cedar Park, TX; one brother, Scott (Megan) Eells of Bloomington, IN; two grandchildren, Sydney and Jameson Eells; and several nieces, nephews, and cousins. 

In addition to his wife, he was preceded in death by his parents; infant son, Nathaniel Eells; and sister, Susie Eells. 

Kevin graduated from Hoopeston-East Lynn High School in 1978 where he was a member of the Sweet 16 basketball team.  He then attended Milikin University and was a 1982 graduate. He began working at Joan of Arc in Hoopeston, then worked at Pillsbury and later at Viskase in Kentland, IN for fifteen years before going to work at Visco Fan.  He was a member of the Hoopeston United Methodist Church.  Kevin enjoyed watching sports, especially IU basketball and the Chicago Cubs and Bears. 

Cremation rites have been accorded.  A visitation will be held 12:00 – 2:00 P.M. Saturday March 27, 2021 at Anderson Funeral Home in Hoopeston.  A graveside service will follow the visitation and will begin at 2:30 P.M. Saturday at Amity Cemetery in Goodwine, IL with Pastor Chris Quick officiating.  

Memorials may be made to the donor’s choice. 

Please visit www.anderson-funeral-home.com

Robert E. Green, 89, of Watseka, IL passed away on Saturday, March 20th, 2020 at his home. 

Visitation is scheduled for Thursday, March 25th at the Knapp Funeral Home in Watseka from 4pm-7pm. 

A funeral service is set for 11:00am on Friday, March 26th at the Milford Christian Church. 

Burial to follow at the Suger Creek Cemetery in Stockland.

Knapp Funeral Home in Watseka is in charge of services for Robert E. Green, 89, of Watseka, IL

Lequita Richards, 72, of Hoopeston, IL passed away on Tuesday, March 16, 2021 at Carle Foundation Hospital in Urbana, IL.

She was born October 8, 1948 in Henderson, KY, the daughter of Clinton and Geraldine (Edwards) Stone.

Lequita married Donnie Lee Richards Sr. in September 1971. He preceded her in passing.

Also preceding her in passing is her parents; and two brothers, Andy Stone of Rankin and Tim Stone of Hoopeston.

She is survived by her children; Tabatha Kay Richards-Buss (Billy Buss) of Hoopeston, IL and Donnie “Buddha” Lee Richards Jr. (fiancé Rachel Stout) of Hoopeston, IL; sister, Debra (Howard) Wilmington of Texas; brothers, Roger (Lore) Stone of Cabery, IL and Ivory (Loraine) Stone of Kankakee, IL; special grandchildren, Isabella Sanchez, Allison Haris, Kenadie Wilson, and Cheyenne Wilson; and many nieces and nephews.

Lequita worked at Howards for many years until working at Casey’s gas station in Milford, and then at the Milford High School with her husband doing custodial work. She enjoyed the Green Bay Packers and the Cubs. She liked to watch movies, any and all tv shows, playing computer games, and cooking. If she had free time she liked to go fishing.

Public Graveside Services will take place on Thursday, March 25, 2021 at 12:30 P.M. at Rankin Union Cemetery in Rankin, IL. Pastor Gary Milton will officiate.

Memorials in Mrs. Lequita Richards’s name can be made to Anderson Funeral to help with funeral expenses.

Please visit www.anderson-funeral-home.com to view Lequita’s eternal tribute page and to send the family condolences.

Anderson Funeral Home in Hoopeston is handling the arrangements.

Shirley Ann Wolfe, 77, of Rossville, IL, passed away at 11:30 P.M. Sunday March 14, 2021 at Carle Foundation Hospital in Urbana, IL.  She was born December 13, 1943 in Rossville, the daughter of Vernon and Frances M. (Ridge) Zurlinden.   

She is survived by two daughters, Christine M. Walters of Schertz, TX and Cindy M. Wolfe of Danville, IL; one brother, Russell W. (Judy) Zurlinden of Danville, IL; four grandchildren, Christopher M. Wolfe, Caitline M. Wolfe, Mason T. Wolfe, and Alexis N. Walters; and many nieces and nephews.  She is also survived by her work friends, Robert, Carl, Pong, and Mary Jo. 

She was preceded in death by her parents; and one sister and brother-in-law, Patricia and Chauncey Carter. 

Shirley worked at Devro-TeePak until her retirement and always enjoyed telling work stories. She was a member of the Rossville Church of Christ.  She enjoyed scrapbooking, studying family genealogy, spending time with her family and playing Yahtzee.  Shirley also enjoyed watching the Super Bowl with her grandson and especially liked watching Tom Brady play. 

Per her wishes, cremation rites will be accorded, and no services will be held. 

Please visit www.anderson-funeral-home.com

Chauncey Earl Carter, 87, of Hoopeston, IL, passed away at 12:00 A.M. Tuesday March 9, 2021 at Heritage Health Therapy and Senior Living in Hoopeston.  He was born August 8, 1933, in Hoopeston, IL the son of Albert and Abigail (Colvin) Carter.  He married Patty Zurlinden on July 19, 1957 at the First Baptist Church in Hoopeston.  She preceded him in death. 

He is survived by three sons, Timothy (Cheri) Carter of Cedar Rapids, IA, Thomas (Ginger) Carter of Fort Walton Beach, FL, and Tracy (Rhonda) Carter of Hoopeston, IL; one brother, Wilbur (June) Carter of Hoopeston, IL; 7 grandchildren, Jessica (Nick) Bronson, Joshua (Stacey) Carter, Heather (Brian) Krause, Nathanial Carter, Adam Carter, Dane (Melissa) Carter, and Victoria (Corie) Robinson; 12 great-grandchildren, Landon Carter, Carter Branson, Lynnae Branson, Mikayla Carter, Nolan Carter, Liam Krause, Bradley Robinson, Benjamin Krause, Mason Carter, Deklyn Carter, Chandler Robinson, and Genevieve Carter; and several nieces and nephews. 

In addition to his wife, Chauncey was preceded in death by his parents; three sisters, Lenora Carter, Helen Jackson, and Mary Furow; and three brothers, Harold Carter, Leon Carter, and Butch (Betty) Carter. 

Chauncey worked at FMC in Hoopeston.  He later worked for the Vermilion County Housing Authority for over twenty years until his retirement.  He served in the United States Army and was a Korean War veteran.  He was a member of the Hoopeston Community Church of the Nazarene.  Chauncey enjoyed playing cards and spending time with his family and friends.  

A visitation will be held 10:00 – 11:00 A.M. Monday March 22, 2021 at Anderson Funeral Home 427 E. Main St. Hoopeston, IL.  The funeral service will follow the visitation and will begin at 11:00 A.M. Monday at the funeral home with Pastor Timothy W. Carter officiating.  Burial will follow in Floral Hill Cemetery in Hoopeston with military rites being accorded by the Hoopeston American Legion Post #384. 

Memorials may be made to Blessings in a Backpack 403 E. Main St. Hoopeston, IL 60942 or the Save the Lorraine Foundation P.O. Box 247 Hoopeston, IL 60942. 

Please visit www.anderson-funeral-home.com

Marjorie Joan Leslie, 87, of Hoopeston, IL, passed away at 11:15 P.M. Friday March 5, 2021 at Carle Foundation Hospital in Urbana, IL.  She was born on September 26, 1933 in Orange County, Indiana, the daughter of Fred and Geneva (Moffatt) Nelson.  She married William Leslie and he preceded her in death in 2003.   

She is survived by one sister, Edith Baldwin of Hoopeston, IL; two brothers, Joe (Peggy) Nelson of Watseka, IL and Chris (Nancy) Nelson of Oswego, IL; and many nieces and nephews.   

In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by her parents; an infant son, Robert; one sister, June Gholson; and one brother, Fred Nelson, Jr.; one sister-in-law, Georgia Nelson; and two brothers-in-law, Vern Gholson and Cliff Baldwin. 

Joan worked at several factories throughout her life including TRW, Howards, and Schumacher’s until her retirement.  She enjoyed Monday night bowling league with her friends, playing Bingo at the Hoopeston American Legion, and visiting with friends at Henning’s. 

A graveside service will be held at 11:00 A.M. Thursday March 11, 2021 at Floral Hill Cemetery in Hoopeston, IL. 

Memorials may be made to Autumn Fields 325 E. Orange St. Hoopeston, IL 60942 or to the donor’s choice. 

Please visit www.anderson-funeral-home.com

Earnest L. Bailey, 93 of Ashkum passed away on Monday March 8, 2021 at Prairieview Lutheran Home in Danforth. He was born on November 5, 1927 in Kempton the son of Avis and Cora Savage Bailey. Earnie married Ila L. Shelton in Emington on June 8, 1946 and she preceded him in death on October 30, 2018. In addition to his wife he was preceded in death three brothers, four sisters, and one son in law-Tom Curl. Survivors include one son- James (Judy) Bailey of Ashkum; six daughters- Kathleen (Michael) Hughey of Wilmette, Cynthia Curl of Chebanse, Elaine (Robert) Tammen of Danforth, Ila Jayne (Russell) Hiatt of Danville, Lois (Todd) Bayston of Kankakee, and Marjorie (Kevin) Clabby of Chebanse; two sisters- Fay Meredith of Clifton and Jeannie Norgaard of Dwight; 15 grandchildren and 24 great grandchildren.

Earnie was a member of First United Methodist Church in Watseka and was an Iroquois County farmer for 40 years. He was active with the Swine Show at the Iroquois County Fair and served on the Soil & Water Conservation Board for many years.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 am on Saturday March 13, 2021 at the Knapp Funeral Home in Watseka with Pastor Kara Berg officiating. Visitation will be held from 9:30 to 11 am on Saturday.

Memorials may be made to the First United Methodist Church in Watseka or the donor’s choice.

To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of Earnest L. Bailey please visit our Sympathy Store.

William E. “Bill” Stopher, 79, of Milford, IL, passed away peacefully on Saturday, March 6, 2021 at Carle Foundation Hospital in Urbana, IL.

He was born September 11, 1941 in Jefferson Township, OH, the son of Eugene and Geraldine (Truax) Stopher.

Bill came to The ARC of Iroquois County on February 28, 1973. He enjoyed picnics, going on outings, and lounging around with his friends.

Mr. William Stopher is survived by his guardian and special friend, Jill Smith of Crescent City; caregivers, Tina and Melanie; and numerous other staff at the Cila; and one sister, Barbara (Charles) Davidson of Iowa.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Geraldine and Eugene Stopher.

A Memorial Service will be held at a later date due to Covid restrictions.

Burial will take place at Ridge Cemetery in Middle Point, OH.

Memorials in Mr. William Stopher’s name can be made to Donor’s Choice.

Joe Ray Whitlow, 76, of Potomac, passed away at 12:08 a.m. Saturday, March 6, 2021, at Carle Foundation Hospital, in Urbana.  A Celebration of Life Service will be held at 1:00 p.m. Wednesday, March 10, 2021, at the Potomac Church of the Nazarene, with Glenda Shelton officiating.  Cremation rites have been accorded by Blurton Funeral Home.  Memorials may be made to the family to assist with funeral expenses.  The family has entrusted the Blurton Funeral Home to assist them in honoring Joe's life.  Condolences may be shared with the family on his everlasting memorial page at:  www.BlurtonFuneralHomes.com.

On January 1, 2021 Charles Ruel "Chuck" Abbott passed away suddenly at his home in Prescott Valley, Arizona at age 67. He was as good a brother, uncle, cousin, and friend as this world could ever know. The few words written here could never do him justice.

Chuck was born on April 7, 1953 in Danville, Illinois to Harold and Grace (Sollars) Abbott living at East Lynn, IL. He graduated from Potomac High School in Potomac, Illinois and studied Computer Programming at Danville Area Community College. Over the course of his career, Chuck served as Operation Manager at Hyster Company, Tech Manager for Tokheim, VP of Sales and Marketing at Computer Associates, Agent at Diamond Brothers Insurance Agency in Champaign, Illinois. He later moved to Prescott Valley and owned and managed Abbott Insurance Consultants LLC.

He was also an active and devoted church member at Heights Church in Prescott, Arizona. His love for his Savior Jesus Christ opened his heart to always be available to lend a hand to help those in need. Each of us will remember Chuck for different reasons but it is his example of sharing and giving of himself that will live on.

Always one for being involved in his community, Chuck was a member of Rotary International and Prescott Valley Rotary president. One of his proudest achievements was his involvement with Yavapai Big Brothers Big Sisters where he was a big brother to his special buddy, Cody Remer. He often spoke about Cody to his family and friends around the country.

He was an avid fan of the University of Illinois Fighting Illini and the Chicago Cubs. He also had a love for Corvettes, motorcycles and his two dogs. During the Christmas season, he loved being Santa Claus for his nieces and nephews which they loved too. He continued the tradition when he moved to Prescott Valley through his church and any other events that needed Santa Claus. He loved his country and history, especially military history. He was also known for his quick wit, jokes and pranks, his infectious laugh and kind and compassionate spirit. He will be dearly missed and always remembered.

He was preceded in death by his father, mother and brother-in-law Gary Hollen. He is survived by his brother Denny (Jackie) Abbott, sisters Norma Hollen, Janice (Ron) Dowell, Ginger (Bill) Judd. Also surviving are nephews Mark (Deb) Hollen, John (Mary) Hollen, Chris (Sara) Dowell, Chad (Christine) Grimes and niece Elizabeth (Jon) Shroyer. Great-nieces and nephews Danielle (Jeff) Kardisco, Gillian (Garrett) Austin, Ashlee Shroyer, Danny Shroyer, Jim Hollen, Tom Hollen, Mike (Natasha) Hollen, Grace Dowell, Deacon Dowell. Great-great nephews Ivyn Kardisco and Nikolas Hollen.

Blurton Funeral Home in Potomac, Illinois is in charge of arrangements. Cremation rites have been accorded. Graveside services will be held at Potomac Cemetery on March 13, 2021 at 1:00 pm. The family ask that masks be worn. Condolences may be offered at www.BlurtonFuneralHomes.com

Kevin Nye Eells, 60, of Hoopeston, IL, passed away at 5:58 P.M. Tuesday March 2, 2021 at his home.  He was born April 25, 1960, in Danville, IL, the son of Edson and Phyllis (Baier) Eells.  He married Janet Egnew on July 9, 1983 in Hoopeston.  She preceded him in death on October 21, 1996.   

He is survived by one son, Jacob (Desarae) Eells of Covington, IN; one sister, Nancy (Bill) Jenkins of Cedar Park, TX; one brother, Scott (Megan) Eells of Bloomington, IN; two grandchildren, Sydney and Jameson Eells; and several nieces, nephews, and cousins. 

In addition to his wife, he was preceded in death by his parents; infant son, Nathaniel Eells; and sister, Susie Eells. 

Kevin graduated from Hoopeston-East Lynn High School in 1978 where he was a member of the Sweet 16 basketball team.  He then attended Milikin University and was a 1982 graduate. He began working at Joan of Arc in Hoopeston, then worked at Pillsbury and later at Viskase in Kentland, IN for fifteen years before going to work at Visco Fan.  He was a member of the Hoopeston United Methodist Church.  Kevin enjoyed watching sports, especially IU basketball and the Chicago Cubs and Bears. 

Cremation rites have been accorded and a service will be held at a later date. 

Memorials may be made to the donor’s choice. 

Please visit www.anderson-funeral-home.com

Geniece M. Allen, 92, of Milford passed away on Thursday, February 25, 2021 at her home. She was born on June 19, 1928 in Milford, the daughter of George and Minnie (Brumfield) Mann.

She married Denny O. Allen on June 19, 1946 in Milford and he preceded her in death on December 23, 1977. She was also preceded in death by her parents; five brothers; three sisters; and one son, Dennis W. Allen.

Geniece is survived by two daughters, Sharon Torbet of Milford and Karen (Glenn) Thrush of Milford; nine grandchildren, Alan Torbet, Monica (Ed) Davenport, Kasey (Jenny) Thrush, Kelsey (Charles) Cox, Golene Thrush, Kyle Thrush, Kylie Thrush, Gosie Thrush, and Gared Thrush; four great-grandchildren; one sister, Sue Kissack of Milford; and one brother, Scott Mann of Hoopeston.

Mrs. Allen was a member of the Milford Christian Church and a lifetime Bearcat member. She graduated from Milford High School in 1946. Geniece worked for Howard’s, Tuttle’s IGA in the deli, and at the Watseka Subway for twenty years.

Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, March 6, 2021 at the Milford Christian Church. Rev. Brent Zastrow and Rev. Neil Larimore will officiate. Burial will follow at Maple Grove Cemetery in Milford.

Visitation will be held on Friday, March 5, 2021 from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., also at the church.

Arrangements by Knapp Funeral Home in Milford.

Memorials may be made to Iroquois Memorial Hospice or the Bearcats Boosters.

To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of Geniece M. Allen please visit our Sympathy Store.

Brownie Kaag, age 94, formerly of Hoopeston, Illinois passed away peacefully on February 28, 2021 at Agrace Hospice Care in Fitchburg, Wisconsin surrounded by her loving family. 

Brownie was born November 19, 1926, the only child of Lawrence and Anna (Anderson) Lane.  She was preceded in death by her husband of 67 years, Jim Kaag (1922-2014). 

Brownie graduated from Hoopeston’s John Greer High School in 1944 and started work in the office of the Food Machinery Corporation.  Brownie and Jim married in 1946 and created an idyllic life on the farm for their two daughters, Cindy and Jane, and a home filled with traditional values and loving warmth.  Brownie was the quintessential housewife and mother who worked hard and always put others first.   She took pride in maintaining an immaculate home and lush garden, cooked hearty meals for the seasonal farmworkers, and was a loving caregiver to both her parents and in-laws, Russell and Freda Kaag, until their passing.  Brownie was a Sunday School teacher, Girl Scout leader, member of Beta Sigma Phi and the neighborhood Jolly Dozen Club. 

Brownie will be deeply missed by her family:  Daughter Cindy and her husband Gregg Prillaman of Annandale, Virginia and their two sons, Ben (Torie) of Clifton, Virginia and their four children, Jacob, Cameron, Ethan and Sophia; and Zachary (Juliet) of Clifton, Virginia and their two daughters, Mae and Adeline.  Daughter Jane and her husband Gary Schaefer of Fitchburg, Wisconsin and their two sons, Jeff of Mequon, Wisconsin; and Peter (Laura) of Neenah, Wisconsin and their two sons, Oliver and Mason. 

Graveside services will be held Saturday, March 6, 2021 at 11:00 a.m. at Floral Hill Cemetery, Hoopeston, Illinois, where Brownie will be laid to rest next to her husband and parents.  The family would like to thank the devoted staff of The Waterford Senior Facility where Brownie lived her last five years.   

Memorials may be made to the First Christian Church, 502 E. Main St., Hoopeston, IL  60942; or the American Legion, 502 E. Penn St., Hoopeston, IL  60942, both of which Brownie and Jim were life members. 

Please visit www.anderson-funeral-home.com

Rocky Jay Cannon, 70, of Rossville, IL passed away Monday, March 1, 2021 at 7:34 A.M. at his home.  He was born December 24, 1950, the son of Wilbur and Lois (Bennett) Cannon. 

He is survived by two brothers, Coy and Timothy “Tim” Cannon, both of Rossville, IL. 

Rocky was preceded in death by his grandparents, Joe and Agnes Cannon and Coy and Hazel Bennett; his parents; and an infant brother, Gregory Kipp Cannon. 

Rocky served in the United States Navy for four years where he was stationed on the USS Sims.  He worked at Sudlow Photography, then Motto Photto, and later at Fed Ex as a semi driver.  He loved traveling, riding his motorcycle, and music.  In his earlier years, Rocky was a trombone player in the Rossville marching band and later played the bass in several local bands. 

A visitation will be held 10:00 – 11:00 A.M. Thursday March 4, 2021 at Anderson Funeral Home 427 E. Main St. Hoopeston, IL.  The funeral service will follow the visitation and will begin at 11:00 A.M. Thursday at the funeral home.  Burial will follow in Potomac Cemetery with military rites being accorded by the Hoopeston American Legion Post #384. 

Memorials may be made to the American Diabetes Association PO Box 7023 Merrifield, VA 22116-7023. 

Please visit www.anderson-funeral-home.com

Shirley Louise Keefe, 96, of Piper City passed away on Friday, February 26, 2021 at the Piper City Rehab and Living Center. She was born on March 9, 1924 in Chicago, the daughter of Adolph and Caroline (Livenick) Bruning.

She married John Keefe of Piper City on July 25, 1941 and he preceded her in death February 1993. She was also preceded in death by her parents, sister, Paulette Johnson, and son, William (Bill) Keefe.

Shirley is survived by her daughter in law, Sandra (Chapman) Keefe of Towanda, two grandchildren Chad (Erin) Keefe of Normal, Shelley (Jeff) Fincham of Chenoa and four great-grandchildren, William (Will) Keefe, Delaney (Laney) Keefe, Amber Fincham and Morgan Fincham.

Shirley was a telephone operator in Piper City for many years and also worked as a secretary at American Screen Products in Chatsworth. Shirley was a member of the United Methodist Church in Piper City.

Shirley was a member of the Good Sam camping club where she traveled all over the United States. She was known locally for her beautiful rose garden and her granddaughter will continue this tradition. Shirley was an avid Bingo player and bowler and also enjoyed having people come to her fun basement bar called the “Dog House”. Shirley loved spending time with her family and we know she will be raising a glass and cheering with a Tequila Sunrise.

A private family celebration will be held at a later date.

Arrangements are being handled by Knapp-Redenius Funeral Home in Gilman.

Memorials may be made to Iroquois Memorial Hospice and Piper City Rehab and Living Center.

To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of Shirley Louise Keefe please visit our Sympathy Store.

Gerald L. Jackson of Bismarck, Il. passed away on March 1st, 2021 at the young age of 70.

Gerald was born on October 18th,1950 in Franklin, Indiana to Albert and Mildred Jackson. Both preceded him in death. He grew up with 10 siblings and attended Mooresville, IN schools.

He married the love of his life Amy Jackson on January 18th,1983. She survives along with their 3 sons, Brandon (Lauren) Jackson, Ben (Christina) Jackson and Blake (Megan) Jackson. He also leaves behind his nine beloved grandchildren. Mackenzie Jackson, Marissa Ohler, Madelyn Vice, Mia Ohler, Jase Jackson, Josey Jackson, Sterling Jackson, Bodey Jackson and Syrus Jackson. His wife’s siblings and their spouses were very special to him and he loved them like his own. Many nieces and nephews, more friends than you can ever imagine, including a few very special to him. Danny Ribbe and Porky & Tina Dicken.

Gerald spent years working at Consolidated Grain in Bismarck and spent the rest of his time working as a Steel Fabricator. Very rarely would you be able to catch him taking a break from work, whether it be his full-time job or projects around the house, he never stopped. He wanted to help his boys with everything they were building, he made many special items for Amy and he always came up with something to put together. His ambition to keep pushing forward and keep working was nothing less than admirable.

His grandchildren were the piece that completed his life puzzle, and he spent every single second he could with them. You could always find him walking around somewhere holding a baby, gardening with the younger kids and of course cracking his infamous jokes at the older ones. His ability to tell a joke in any given situation was one of the most beautiful attributes he possessed.

The love he had for Amy and his boys was so incredibly special. He never missed an opportunity to let her know she was loved and appreciated, and not a night went by that he did not call the boys to check in and see what they were eating for dinner. He had a strong love for life, every move he made was done with a greater purpose and anyone who was lucky enough to know him I am sure is forever grateful for their memories with such an amazing man.

He fought a long, hard, courageous battle with cancer for 6 years and did everything he could to keep moving forward for his family. The family would like to thank Dr. Kendrith Rowland and his amazing staff for their great care for Gerald at Carle.

He will be deeply missed and always loved. Some of his last words to his family were, “I’m really going to miss you guys.” If he only knew how much we are going to miss him.

Per his request, he will be cremated at Blurton Funeral Home in Hoopeston, Illinois and there will be no services. The family will hold a Celebration of Life at a later date. Condolences can be sent to P.O. Box 211 Bismarck, Illinois and donations in Gerald’s name can be made to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation. www.BlurtonFuneralHomes.com