Richardson Funeral Service Obituaries

Introduction to Richardson Funeral Service

Located in the heart of Wayne City, Illinois, Richardson Funeral Service has been a pillar of support for families in their time of need. With a rich history and a commitment to providing exceptional care, this funeral home has established itself as a trusted partner for those seeking to honor the memory of their loved ones. In this article, we will delve into the services and features that make Richardson Funeral Service stand out, and explore how they can help you navigate the difficult process of planning a funeral.

A History of Compassionate Care

Richardson Funeral Service has a long history of serving the Wayne City community, with roots dating back to [insert year]. Over the years, the funeral home has remained family-owned and operated, with a focus on providing personalized attention to each and every family they serve. This commitment to compassionate care has earned them a reputation as one of the most trusted funeral homes in the area.

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Recent Funeral Home Obituaries

Joy Yvonne Ervin - September 19, 1928 - December 26, 2021

Departed: 12/26/2021 (Wayne City)

Obituary Preview: Joy Yvonne Ervin, 93, of Keenes, IL passed away on Sunday, December 26, 2021 at Mt. Vernon Countryside Manor in Mt. Vernon, IL.

Joy was born September 19, 1928 in Cherokee County, IA the daughter of Elby Smith and Ruth (Storey) Smith.

She graduated with a Master’s Degree in Education and began teaching elementary education in one-room schoolhouses, which included Independence, Crossroads, and Oak Grove schools.  Her students knew her as “Miss Joy” and she had the privilege of teaching many students over the years in the Wayne County area.  She enjoyed riding horses and was a former member of a horseback riding club in Pekin, IL.  She also enjoyed traveling and visiting with friends.  She was a member of Garrison Temple Church at Papertown, IL and formerly attended the Mt. Zion Church south of Keenes, IL.

Joy is survived by 2 sons:  Don (Maureen) Buchanan of Keenes, IL and East Peoria, IL and Robert Ervin of Murfreesboro, TN; a sister Gayle Trotter of Sims, IL; several grandchildren, 2 great grandchildren, and several nieces & nephews.

She was preceded in death by both parents, a daughter Linda Joy Buchanan, a son Nicholas Ervin, a sister Rita Ballard, and 3 brothers:  Dale Smith, Wayne Smith, and Lawrence Smith.

In accordance with Joy’s wishes, there will be no formal services. Online condolences and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.richardsonfuneralservices.com

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Ruby Eleanor Kittle - April 21, 1937 - November 17, 2021

Departed: 11/17/2021 (Wayne City)

Obituary Preview: Ruby Eleanor Kittle, 84, of Wayne City, IL passed away Wednesday, November 17, 2021 at SSM Health Good Samaritan Hospital in Mt. Vernon, IL.

Ruby was born April 21, 1937 in Rankin, IL the daughter of Marshall & Zelma Brown.  On January 28, 1956 she married Robert “Bob” Kittle, who survives.

Ruby was a homemaker, who enjoyed reading, camping, babysitting her grandkids, and spending time with her family.  She was a member of the Turning Point Church in McLeansboro, IL and was the former church Treasurer.  She was also the manager of the food pantry program at Turning Point Church.

Ruby is survived by her husband Robert “Bob” Kittle of Wayne City, 4 daughters: Roberta Harwell of Wayne City, Ruth (William) Stewart of Wayne City, Rita (Randall) Ash of Fairfield, IL and Rhonda Stewart of Wayne City; a son Ronnie Kittle of Mt. Vernon, IL; 13 grandchildren, 25 great grandchildren, and 3 great-great grandchildren with one on the way.  She is also survived by 2 sisters-in-law: Lola Brown of Fairfield, IL and Sue Brown of McLeansboro, IL and several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by both parents, 2 brothers:  Cecil Brown and Gene Brown, a sister Wanda Hutchison, and a granddaughter Christina Harwell. Funeral services for Ruby Eleanor Kittle will be held at 1 pm on Saturday, November 20, 2021 at the Archie L. Sanders Memorial Chapel in Wayne City, IL with Leo Hall officiating.  Visitation will be held from 11 am until the time of service at 1 pm on Saturday.  Burial will take place at Thomason Cemetery.  Richardson Funeral Home in Wayne City, IL is in charge of arrangements.  Condolences and expressions of sympathy may be made at www.richardsonfuneralservices.com

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Wilma Richards - July 19, 1924 - November 12, 2021

Departed: 11/12/2021 (Wayne City)

Obituary Preview: Wilma Anderson Richards died Friday, November 12, 2021, while under hospice care in Cocoa, Florida. Born in Wayne City, July 19, 1924, Wilma was oldest of seven children in the family of Edna and Russell Anderson. Wilma was preceded in death by her husband of 64 years, Jack Richards in 2005, and her youngest son, Jim, in 2008. She is survived by a daughter, Judith Richards in Alabama, and son, Duane Richards in Cocoa, Florida.

Wilma grew up in Wayne County, a place where the Anderson, Thomason, and Richards families have lived for nearly two hundred years. As the oldest Anderson child, Wilma was expected to help in the barn milking cows. Her father, Russell, recognized her head for numbers and charged Wilma with listening to the early morning farm market reports and reciting them to him when he came in from the barn. Wilma left school during the Depression and worked as a housekeeper for a doctor's family. She became a young war bride in 1941 when she married Jack Richards.

Wilma was known by family and friends to be spunky. She became a fine seamstress and worked as supervisor for years at the Fairfield Garment factory. She taught herself typing and bookkeeping in order to help her husband manage his logging and sawmill business. At the age of 40 she took karate classes. She seemed happiest when her extended family was present. Wilma's grandchildren are scattered from Norway to Pennsylvania to Florida: Charles Kriel, Marc Cline, Stacy Parmalee, Bob Richards, Steve Richards, Dawn Wagner; and great-grandchildren, Viola Viken-Kriel, Alaina, Erin, and Andrew Cline, Jade Parmalee and Patrick Parmalee, and Colleen Richards Nelson. She is also survived by a brother, Gary Anderson, and his family in La Moille; and two sisters in Mendota, Mary Anderson Erbes and Phyllis Anderson Hitchins.

The ashes of Wilma Richards will be laid to rest next to her husband, Jack, and son, Jim in Olive Branch Cemetery on a date yet to be determined.

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Berlene Rose Bakos - April 06, 1942 - November 09, 2021

Departed: 11/09/2021 (Wayne City)

Obituary Preview: Berlene Rose Bakos, 79, passed away peacefully with family by her side on Tuesday, November 9, 2021 at Hamilton Memorial Hospital in McLeansboro.

She was born on April 6, 1942 in Wayne City, IL to her parents Berl and Mildred (Sharp) Hickey.  Berlene married John Gilbert Bakos, who preceded her in death. Berlene worked as an admitting clerk at Fairfield Memorial Hospital for 28 years.  She enjoyed crafts, cooking gadgets, and collecting cookbooks.

Berlene is survived by son Kevin (Lauren) Bakos of Vienna, IL; daughter Kimberly (Bill) Laird of Oakley, CA; son Alan (Susan) Bakos of Bonita Springs, FL; and sister Patricia Hawk of Wayne City, IL.  Six grandchildren, two great-grandchildren with one on the way, two nieces, and six nephews also survive.

She was preceded in death by both parents Berl and Mildred Hickey, husband John Bakos, sister Vivian Owens and sister Peg Pitman.

A memorial service will be held at a later time.  Richardson Funeral Home of Wayne City is assisting family with the arrangements.

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Gertrude M. Williamson - November 02, 1922 - October 15, 2021

Departed: 10/15/2021 (Wayne City)

Obituary Preview: Gertrude M. Williamson, 99, of Minerva, Ohio passed away on Friday, October 15, 2021 in the Minerva Healthcare and Rehabilitation Center.  She was born November 2, 1922 in Wayne City, Illinois to Ross and Elma (Shell) Mayo.  She was a housewife and had formerly worked for Thomason’s Department Store in Wayne City, Illinois.  She was a member of the Minerva First Christian Church and the Alpha Rho Sunday School Class.

She is preceded in death by her husband, Clarence “Bill” Williamson, daughter Peggy Gross, 2 brothers: Andrew and Roy Mayo, and 3 sisters: Dorothy Roy, Ethel Hilliard and Irene Hilliard.  She is survived by a daughter, Debra Gascon of Minerva, Ohio, 6 grandchildren, 9 great-grandchildren, and 14 great-great-grandchildren.  Several nieces and nephews also survive.

Funeral services for Gertrude M. Williamson will be held at the Archie L. Sanders Chapel in Wayne City, IL on Monday, October 25, 2021 at 11:00 a.m. with Pastor Michael Gross officiating. Interment will follow at Thomason Cemetery in Wayne City, IL.  Calling hours and funeral services were previously held at Gotschall-Hutchison Funeral Home of Minerva, Ohio.  Richardson Funeral Home of Wayne City is in charge of local arrangements.

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Charoeletta Ann Frazier - June 13, 1952 - September 15, 2021

Departed: 09/15/2021 (Wayne City)

Obituary Preview: Charoeletta Ann Frazier, 69, of Fairfield, IL passed away on Wednesday, September 15, 2021 at her home.

Charoeletta was born on June 13, 1952 to her parents Charles Glenn & Betty (Fenton) Glenn, who preceded her in death.

She worked as a caregiver for many years.  She was a believer of the Christian faith and went to be with the Lord Jesus.

Charoeletta is survived by a son Dale Frazier & wife Beth Jones-Frazier of Fairfield, IL, 2 granddaughters, 3 step grandchildren, several great-grandchildren, and lots of family & friends.

She was preceded in death by her father Charles Glenn, her mother Betty Glenn, and a sister Brenda Glenn, all of whom resided in Sims, IL.

There will be no formal services at this time.

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Wanda Lee Whitaker - November 29, 1934 - June 22, 2021

Departed: 06/22/2021 (Wayne City)

Obituary Preview: Wanda Lee Whitaker, 86, passed away Tuesday, June 22, 2021 at her home in Mount Vernon, Illinois.

She was born in Jefferson County, Illinois on November 29, 1934 to Major & Opal (Withrow) Voyles.  On July 3, 1953 she married Millard A. Whitaker, who preceded her in death on August 17, 2020.

Wanda is survived by her niece, Theresa Lowery of Mount Vernon, Illinois.

There will be no formal services.

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Thomas C. Creighton - September 22, 1933 - June 19, 2021

Departed: 06/19/2021 (Wayne City)

Obituary Preview: Thomas C. Creighton, 89, of Wayne City, IL passed away on Saturday, June 19, 2021 at his residence.

He was born to Oscar Creighton and Pauline Schaumburg in Golconda, IL on September 22, 1933.  He was an Operating Engineer for Union Local 841 in Terre Haute, IN.  He married Leah Sollars in Danville, IL in 1952.  He was a member of Orchardville Community Church.

He is survived by two sons, Mike (Becky) Creighton and Patrick (Trena) Creighton of Wayne City, two daughters Linda Sue Scheriger of Wayne City and Kelley (Dave) Phillips of Heyworth, IL, and one sister Nancy (Ron) Brost of Otterbein, IL.  Eleven grandchildren, 25 great-grandchildren and several nieces and nephews also survive.

A private family gathering will be held by Richardson Funeral Home at Archie Sanders Chapel at 10:00am Tuesday, June 22nd with Pastor Rob Greenwalt officiating.

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Gladys Kay Meyer - December 01, 1955 - April 12, 2021

Departed: 04/12/2021 (Wayne City)

Obituary Preview: OBITUARY  for Gladys Kay (Lane) Meyer

Mt. Vernon- Gladys (Lane) Meyer, 65, of Mt. Vernon, died peacefully on Monday, April 12, 2021, SSM hospital in Mt. Vernon, Illinois.

Gladys was born on December 1, 1955 in Normal, IL.  the daughter of the late Harvey  and Betty (Buchanan) Lane. Gladys was married in a garden wedding at her parent’s home in Opdyke, IL , to John Meyer who preceded her in death on January 15, 1991

Gladys is survived by her two children, John Meyer of Opdyke, Il, and  Kira Meyer of Mt. Vernon, IL.; grandchildren, Chase Meyer, Kaycee Meyer, and Camden Meyer.  She is survived by 4 sisters and 1 brother ; Idella Robertson and husband, Earl of Texico, IL ; Roger Lane  of Mt. Vernon:  Christine Maxey and husband ,Don of Bluford, IL.;  Crystal Maxey and husband, Charles of Bluford, IL.; and Marilyn Cox and husband, Stephan of Kingwood, Texas and  several nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Gladys had previously worked and retired from at World Color Press  in Salem, Illinois and worked at Addus, Mt. Vernon, Illinois.  Everyone who knew Gladys liked her and will always remember her bubbly , direct personality.  Some of Gladys’s best times were with the “Sister’s annual Kentucky Get-a-ways”.

A graveside service will be held at a later date at Salem/Mateer Church Cemetery, Wayne County, Illinois with Stephen Cox officiating.

Richardson Funeral Home in Wayne City is assisting the family with arrangements.

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Frank O Cole, JR - March 01, 1944 - March 24, 2021

Departed: 03/24/2021 (Wayne City)

Obituary Preview:

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Adda Mae Miller - February 17, 1931 - October 09, 2020

Departed: 10/09/2020 (Wayne City)

Obituary Preview: Adda Mae Miller, 89, peacefully passed away on October 9,2020.  An inspiration to her family and all who knew her, she was a woman of Faith and had many talents.  She was a Cosmetologist, owning her own business for several years.  She took art lessons from Russell May in Kentucky and became an impressive artist working mainly with oils.  She pieced together beautiful quilts and she was a very good cook.

Adda Mae was born on February 17, 1931, in Dahlgren, Illinois, daughter of Almon and Dessie (Jones) Good.  She married Shirley Ray Miller on September 20, 1947.

Surviving are three sons, Raymond (Vicki) Howard of Gaston, SC, Randy (Juanita) LeRoy of Mesa, AZ, and Ronald (Jill) Lindy of Elko, NV.  One daughter, Roxanna (Rodney) Courtney of Reno, NV.  Her siblings: Warren Good of Sutherlin, OR, Edna Breeze of Mt. Vernon, Kenneth Good of Kingman, AZ and Marilyn Breeze of Bluford, IL.

Funeral and interment services will be held Saturday, April 24th, 2021 at 11:00am at Hopewell Cemetery with Rev. Jay Loucks officiating.

Adda Mae was also blessed with 11 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren and 4 great great grandchildren.

Richardson Funeral Home is assisting with arrangements.

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Harold Lee Rector - August 26, 1930 - July 28, 2020

Departed: 07/28/2020 (Wayne City)

Obituary Preview: Harold Lee Rector of Johnsonville passed away at his home on July 28th 2020.  He was born to George and Freda (Keen) of Mt.Vernon on August 26th, 1930.  He married Lydia Scarbrough on July 29, 1950.  Harold Lee pumped oil wells and farmed most of his life.

He is survived by sons Ric Rector of Porter, Texas, and Randy (Paula) Rector of Johnsonville; seven grandchildren: Shawn Rector of Rantoul, Angel Rector of Woodlawn, Brandi Witzel of Mt. Vernon, Joey (Jessica) Rector of Woodlawn, Amber (Aaron) Landreth of Keenes, Kimberlin Rector of Mt. Vernon, and Kenneth (Jasmine) Rector of Xenia; 18 great grandchildren: Sonya, Sophia, Tyler, Dyllan, Derricka, Devin, Angel, Nathan, Austin, Lydia, Taylor, Lizzie, Tucker, Dalyn, Justi, Holden, Kiana, and Kenrick; and 8 great-great grandchildren.

Graveside services will be held at The Garrison Temple Cemetery near Orchardville on Thursday, July 30, 2020 at 10:00am.  There will be no visitation and folks should go directly to the cemetery.

The Richardson Funeral Home of Wayne City is in charge of all arrangements.

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James E Fenton - March 16, 1926 - July 07, 2020

Departed: 07/07/2020 (Wayne City)

Obituary Preview: 94-year-old James E. Fenton of Sims, passed away at 9:15 p.m. on July 7th at Wabash Christian Village. James was born on March 16th 1926 to Oscar Fenton and Nora Johnson in Sims.  He married Doris Talbert on October 4, 1946.  He was a veteran of the US Navy.  He was a member of the Hopewell Cemetery Board and the Berry School Board.  James was a member of the Sims Congregational Church where he served as a Deacon.  He was a past Road Commissioner of Arrington Township.

He is survived by four sons: James Leon Fenton of Johnsonville, Lavon Fenton of Sims, Herb Fenton of Fairfield, and RaGene Fenton of Sims.  He is also survived by 12 grandchildren and numerous great-grandchildren and nieces and nephews, and special friend, Marlene Wood.  He was preceded in death by his parents, brothers and sisters and and a great-grand daughter.

Cremation rites have been accorded and the Richardson Funeral Home of Wayne City. There will be no formal service. Online tributes my be made at www.richardsonfunerlservices.com

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Steve A Routien - April 15, 1955 - May 12, 2020

Departed: 05/12/2020 (Wayne City)

Obituary Preview: 65-year-old Steve A. Routien of Fairfield, passed away at 7:12pm on May 11th at Deaconess Mid-Town Hospital in Evansville, Indiana.  He was a laborer working in manufacturing. Steve was born to Harold Routien and Carolyn Litis on April 15th, 1955 in Winchester, Kentucky.  He married Janet Tennyson on December 29, 2006 in Winchester, Kentucky who survives.  Steve served his country in the US Army. Steve is survived by his wife, Janet of Fairfield and a daughter Jennifer (Ace) Dunn of Mt. Vernon, Illinois.  He is also survived by a sister Jolene Koeppel of Winchester, Kentucky. Cremation rites have been accorded and there will be no formal services. Care has been entrusted to the Richardson Funeral Home in Wayne City

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James Curtis Broyles, JR - October 08, 1961 - April 03, 2020

Departed: 04/03/2020 (Wayne City)

Obituary Preview: James "Conehead" Broyles Jr. of Cisne passed away at his residence on Friday April 3rd 2020.  He was a truck driver and a member of ABATE.  He also belonged to the Calvary Baptist Church.   He was born on October 8th 1961 to James C. Broyles Sr. and Juanita Cook.  He was a truck driver for Rainwater Farms in Wayne City. He was a member of ABATE. Conehead is survived by his ex-wife Julie Broyles.  Two sons; Dominick Margentini of Cisne and Curtis Lappin of Orchardville.  One daughter Miranda Moore of Springfield, Missouri.  One brother Tommy Cook of Streator and sisters Joyce (David) Moore of Cisne, Julia (Scott) Mugrage of Alaska and Candy Armstrong of Chicago.  Ten grandchildren, 2 great-grandchildren and many nieces nephews and cousins as well as friends survive. Private family services will be held on Tuesday April 7th 2020 at Hill Crest Memorial Park in Streator, Illinois at 11:00AM.  Memorials may be made to ABATE, The Scranton Cancer Fund, or SSM Hospice and will be accepted at the Richardson Funeral Home in Wayne City which is in charge of the arrangements.

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Herman D Garner - January 03, 1928 - April 03, 2020

Departed: 04/03/2020 (Wayne City)

Obituary Preview: Wayne City native Herman D. Garner, 92, passed away at 4:30am on Friday April 3rd, 2020 at McLeansboro Rehabilitation and Healthcare. Herman was born on January 3rd, 1928 in Wayne City, Illinois to the late Omer and Lola (McKinney) Garner. Surviving are two sons, Jim Garner of Wayne City, Jack Johnson of Dahlgren and a daughter Angie (Jim) Calkin of Dahlgren; two sisters Phyllis Clark of Mt. Vernon, Illinois and Alice Jane (Cully) Crook of Wayne City; one brother Joe Garner of Wayne City; one grandson Lucas Garner and granddaughters Jennifer Clemens, Cathy Garrison, Carolyn Craig and Samantha Norwood. He was preceded in death by his parents, two brothers Norris Garner and Raymond Garner and a daughter Sandra Adamecz. He was retired from Airtex and a member of the Wayne City Baptist Church.  He dearly loved his family and enjoyed fishing and playing cards with family and friends. Private Services will be held at the Richardson Funeral Home on Sunday April 5, 2020 at 1:00pm. with burial to follow in Thomason Cemetery in Wayne City

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Alvin "Phonnie" Downen - June 22, 1952 - February 28, 2020

Departed: 02/28/2020 (Wayne City)

Obituary Preview: Sims, Illinois

Alvin “Phonnie” Downen passed away at 2:46 pm on Friday, February 28th, 2020 at St. Louis University Hospital in St. Louis, Missouri.  He was born to Jesse Junior Downen and Eva Thomason on June 22nd 1952 in Sims, Illinois. He was a union laborer and a member of Laborers Local 118 of Chicago.  He served in the U.S. Army and was stationed in Korea

Phonnie Downen is survived by his father, Jesse Junior Downen of Sims, significant other, Donna Downen of Fairfield, two sons Phonnie Lee Downen of Fairfield, Illinois, Eric Downen of Jacksonville, Florida.  Phonnie is also survived by two brothers Rocky (Grace) Merritt of Fairfield, Brad Downen of Sims, two sisters June (Aaron) Galbraith of Cisne, Amy (Steve) Purks of Muscle Shoals, Alabama, two grandsons as well as one uncle and many nieces and nephews.

Funeral services for Phonnie Downen will be held at 11:00 am on March 3rd, 2020 at the Richardson Funeral Home in Wayne City with burial to follow at Pin Oak Cemetery.  Friends may call from 5-7 pm on Monday, March 2nd, 2020 at the Richardson Funeral Home in Wayne City.  Military rites will be held at Pin Oak Cemetery by American Legion Post #176 of Fairfield.

Care has been entrusted to the Richardson Funeral Home in Wayne City.

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Charles "Chuck" Crocker - April 10, 1940 - February 01, 2020

Departed: 02/01/2020 (Wayne City)

Obituary Preview: 79-year-old Charles "Chuck" Crocker of Fairfield passed away at 4:40 pm on Saturday, February 1, 2020, at Deaconess Gateway Hospital in Evansville, Indiana.

Chuck was born to Lester "Pat" Crocker and Augusta Garrison on April 10, 1940, in Wayne City, Illinois.

Chuck was a faithful member of First Baptist Church in Fairfield, Illinois.

Chuck is survived by his son Jeff Crocker of Nashville, TN, a daughter Jody Crocker of Esterville, IA.  He is also survived by a sister Brenda Vowels of Kalkaska, MI and a brother Dale Crocker of Wayne City.  Eight grandchildren also survive.

Chuck was proceeded in death by his parents.

Funeral Services for Charles "Chuck" Crocker will be held on Saturday, February 8, 2020, at `1:00 pm at the Archie Sanders Chapel at Thomason Cemetery.  Friends may call from 11:00 until the time of the service at the Archie Sanders Chapel.  Burial will follow in Thomason Cemetery.

Care has been entrusted to the Richardson Funeral Home of Wayne City.

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Louellen "Babe" Johnston - September 12, 1937 - January 25, 2020

Departed: 01/25/2020 (Wayne City)

Obituary Preview: 82-year-old Louellen “Babe” Johnston of Wayne City passed away at 2:30am on Saturday, January 25th, 2020 at Countryside Manor in Mt. Vernon. Louellen “Babe” Johnston was born to Clifton Copple and Nelpha Owens on September 12th, 1937 in Walnut Hill, Illinois

She married Carol Johnston in Mt. Vernon Illinois on October 16th, 1969. He preceded her in death. She and Carol were involved for many years with Thoroughbred Horses at many local tracks. She was an avid St. Louis Cardinals fan.

She was of the Christian Faith.

Babe Johnston is survived by a daughter, Kim (Jim) Cooper of Wayne City, one son Terry Campbell of Wayne City. She is also survived by a sister Sally Elms of Carbondale, Illinois, and two grandchildren Hanah Cooper and Noah Cooper both of Wayne City.

She was preceded in death by her husband and one sister and two infant brothers.

A Celebration of Life ceremony will be held with Lathon Musgrave officiating at the Archie Sanders Chapel at Thomason Cemetery on Sunday, February 2, 2020, at 1:00 pm with the burial of ashes to follow.

Care has been entrusted to the Richardson Funeral Home in Wayne City.

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James "Jim" Ivan Gray - August 28, 1943 - January 18, 2020

Departed: 01/18/2020 (Wayne City)

Obituary Preview: James Ivan (Jim) Gray, 76, of Wayne City died on Saturday, January 18th, 2020 at 12:55pm at the Linda E. White Hospice House in Evansville, Indiana.  Jim was born to Ivan and Xena (Murray) Gray on August 28th 1943 in Eldorado, Illinois.  Jim married Shirley White on July 7th, 1977 and she survives.

Jim was a veteran of the United States Army and served during the Vietnam Conflict.  Jim was a member of Temple Baptist Church in McLeansboro where he served as a Deacon.  Jim was a maintenance manager for GE Aerospace for many years in classified projects.  Jim also attended SIU and attained a Bachelor’s Degree in Zoology as well as was an assistant teacher there.

Jim Gray is survived by his wife, Shirley Gray of Wayne City, one daughter Jamie Gray of Wayne City, one son Jeff Holland of Richmond, VA, three grandchildren Nathon Holland of Akron, OH, Brennon Yarnell of Wayne City and Grayson Habermaas of Wayne City and two great-grandchildren.  Jim was preceded in death by his parents.

Cremation rites have been accorded and a graveside service with Military Rites will be held at a later date.

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A Facility Designed for Comfort and Convenience

The Richardson Funeral Service facility is located at 101 S Main Street, Wayne City, IL, 62895, and is designed to provide a comfortable and welcoming environment for families. The funeral home features a spacious chapel, modern amenities, and ample parking, making it an ideal location for funerals, memorial services, and other gatherings. The facility is also fully accessible, ensuring that all families can participate in the funeral process without restriction.

Personalized Funeral Services

At Richardson Funeral Service, every funeral is tailored to meet the unique needs and preferences of the family. Their experienced staff takes the time to listen to your wishes, and works closely with you to create a personalized tribute that honors your loved one's life. From traditional funerals to cremation services, memorial gatherings, and more, Richardson Funeral Service offers a range of options to suit every family's needs.

Cremation Services with Care

Richardson Funeral Service understands that cremation is becoming an increasingly popular choice for many families. That's why they offer a range of cremation services, from direct cremation to cremation with a memorial service. Their staff is trained to handle every aspect of the cremation process with dignity and respect, ensuring that your loved one is treated with care throughout.

Pre-Planning Options for Peace of Mind

While it may be difficult to think about planning a funeral in advance, doing so can bring peace of mind and relief to your loved ones during a difficult time. Richardson Funeral Service offers pre-planning options that allow you to make your wishes known, select your desired services, and even pre-pay for your funeral expenses. By taking care of these details ahead of time, you can ensure that your family is protected from unnecessary stress and financial burden.

Grief Support and Resources

Losing a loved one can be one of the most challenging experiences we face in life. At Richardson Funeral Service, they understand that grief is a journey that doesn't end with the funeral. That's why they offer ongoing support and resources to help you navigate the grieving process. From counseling services to support groups and online resources, their staff is committed to helping you find the support you need during this difficult time.

A Commitment to Community

Richardson Funeral Service is deeply rooted in the Wayne City community, and is committed to giving back through various outreach programs and initiatives. From sponsoring local events to supporting charitable organizations, their staff is dedicated to making a positive impact on the lives of those around them.

Contacting Richardson Funeral Service

If you're looking for a funeral home that truly cares about you and your family, look no further than Richardson Funeral Service. Whether you're planning ahead or have an immediate need, their staff is available 24/7 to answer your questions and provide guidance. You can reach them by phone at [insert phone number], or visit their website at [insert website URL]. They also invite you to stop by their facility at 101 S Main Street, Wayne City, IL, 62895, where they would be honored to meet with you in person.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an obituary?

An obituary is a written notice that announces the death of a person, typically including their name, age, date of birth and death, and other biographical information. It often includes details about their life, achievements, and surviving family members.

Why are obituaries important?

Obituaries serve as a way to honor and remember the deceased, while also providing a sense of closure for loved ones. They also help to notify friends, acquaintances, and community members of the person's passing.

Who writes an obituary?

Typically, a family member or close friend writes the obituary, although it can also be written by a funeral home or other entity. In some cases, the deceased may have written their own obituary in advance.

What information should be included in an obituary?

A standard obituary usually includes the person's name, age, date of birth and death, place of residence, occupation, education, military service, hobbies, and surviving family members. It may also include other details such as achievements, awards, or charitable organizations they supported.

How long should an obituary be?

The length of an obituary can vary greatly, but it's generally recommended to keep it concise and focused on the most important information. Aim for around 150-200 words.

Can I include photos or other media in an obituary?

Yes, many online obituary platforms and newspapers allow you to include photos, videos, or other multimedia elements to make the tribute more personal and engaging.

How do I submit an obituary to a newspaper or online platform?

Contact the newspaper or online platform directly to learn about their submission process and any specific requirements they may have. Some may have online forms or email addresses for submissions.

How much does it cost to publish an obituary?

The cost varies depending on the publication or platform. Some newspapers may charge by the word or line, while online platforms may offer free or paid options with varying levels of features.

Can I write an obituary for someone who has been deceased for a long time?

Absolutely! While traditional obituaries are typically published shortly after a person's passing, there's no rule against writing one for someone who has been deceased for years or even decades.

What if I'm not comfortable writing an obituary myself?

If you're struggling to write an obituary, consider enlisting the help of a friend or family member. Alternatively, many funeral homes offer assistance with writing and publishing obituaries as part of their services.

Can I include humor or anecdotes in an obituary?

Absolutely! Obituaries don't have to be somber and serious. Including lighthearted stories or humorous anecdotes can help capture the personality and spirit of the deceased.

How do I handle sensitive information in an obituary?

If the deceased had a complicated or sensitive aspect to their life (e.g., addiction issues), it's essential to approach the topic with compassion and tact. Consider consulting with family members or a trusted advisor before publishing.

Can I include charitable donations or memorial funds in an obituary?

Yes! Many families choose to include information about charitable donations or memorial funds in lieu of flowers. This can be a meaningful way to honor the deceased and support a good cause.

How long does it take for an obituary to be published?

The timeframe varies depending on the publication or platform. Online platforms may publish immediately, while newspapers may take several days or weeks to print.

Can I make changes to an obituary after it's been published?

In some cases, yes. If you need to make corrections or updates, contact the publication or platform directly to see what options are available.

What if I want to keep the obituary private?

If you prefer not to share the obituary publicly, you can opt for a private posting on some online platforms or request that the newspaper only share it with specific individuals or groups.

Can I republish an existing obituary from another source?

Check with the original publisher for permission before republishing an existing obituary. You may need to obtain copyright clearance or provide proper attribution.

How do I find an old obituary from years ago?

You can try searching online archives of newspapers, genealogy websites, or local libraries. You may also contact the newspaper directly to inquire about their archives and access policies.

Can I create a digital archive of my loved one's obituary?

Yes! Many online platforms allow you to save and share digital copies of obituaries. You can also create your own digital archive using cloud storage services or personal websites.

What if I'm unsure about what to say in an obituary?

Talk to family members, friends, or colleagues who knew the deceased well. They can provide valuable insights and help you craft a meaningful tribute.

Can I include quotes or lyrics in an obituary?

Absolutely! Quotes, lyrics, or poems can add depth and emotion to an obituary. Choose something that resonates with the deceased's personality or interests.

How do I ensure accuracy when writing an obituary?