Zona Lynn Hampleman, 79, of Sesser, Illinois, passed away Monday, February 17, 2025.

Zona was born July 26, 1945, in Murl, Kentucky. The daughter of Frank Ramsey and Eva (Sloan) Ramsey. One of six children, Zona grew up in a home full of laughter, music, and faith. She was a devoted mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend.

During her life, Zona enjoyed many different careers and activities: including, payroll specialist for PMC Inc. (retired 2019), becoming a licensed hairdresser, and most notably a homemaker for her two children: Lynnette and Jerry Jr. She enjoyed seeing movies with friends and reading mystery novels.

Zona loved music and dancing. She would often create songs about the little things that would happen in her daily life and sing them with her grandchildren. Her family was her pride and joy. She had an unmistakable laugh and a knack for making people feel like they were the most important person in the room. But most of all, Zona loved Jesus. She was a long-time member of the First Baptist Church in Sesser, and, throughout her life she held an unwavering faith in God. Her faith was the foundation of her life and her family remembers that she commonly exclaimed “Thank Ya Jesus!” She will be missed, remembered, and cherished for the beautiful life she lived. Now Zona will be able spend eternity with her Savior in Heaven.

She is survived by her daughter, Lynnette Jones, and son, Jerry (Nancy) Hampleman Jr.; mother-in-law, Winona Hampleman; sister, Noive Keith; brothers, Joe (Coleen) Ramsey and Frank (Mary) Ramsey; four grandchildren, Blake (Erica) Hampleman, Luke (Alysha) Clark-Hampleman, Zachary Crocker, Hanah (Seth) Dean; and four great-grandchildren, Skylar Crocker, Myles Crocker, Kayson Furlow, Eva Flood, and Jaxx Dean.

She was preceded in death by her parents; father-in-law and mother in-law, Claude and Betty Hampleman; sister, Janice Vogt; brother-in-law, Robert Vogt; sister, June Adams; great-grandchild, Ella Flood.

A celebration of life will be held at The First Baptist Church of Sesser on Saturday, March 29, 2025, at 12:00pm with a graveside service to follow at 2:00 p.m.

In lieu of flowers donations can be made to The First Baptist Church-Sesser.

Riggin-Pillatsch & Burke Funeral Home in Carterville assisted the family with arrangements.

Georgia Jean Wagner (Reid), age 77 of Benton passed away Monday, Feb 17, 2025 at 11:26 am at home under Hospice care surrounded by her daughters and friends.

She was born to George and Virginia “Beth” (Moore) Reid on May 19, 1947 in Sesser.

Georgia loved being a homemaker. She always said she had the greatest job in the world and caring for her family brought her such joy. Georgia was adored by her loving family.

Her most favorite place to be in the world was at the beach with her loving family and she always looked forward to that every year. She loved spending time with them by the ocean enjoying the sun, sand, waves, and the feeling of togetherness.

She is survived by her loving daughters, Kerry and Shelly.

She is preceded in death by her husband Terry Wagner, her parents George Reid and Virginia “Beth” (Moore) Reid, her sister Ginger Reid Marlette and her beloved Maltese, Winnie.

Per Georgia’s wishes, cremation will be accorded.

Services for Georgia Jean Wagner will be in private.

The cremation of Georgia Jean Wagner will be personally handled by the staff of Crain Funeral Home.

Crain Pleasant Grove-Murdale Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

To view the obituary and/or to leave an online condolence for the family, please visit www.crainsonline.com.

Emily Ann Watkins, 23, of Benton, passed away on Sunday, February 23, 2025 at the Linda E. White Hospice House in Evansville, Indiana.

She was born on July 31, 2001 in Carbondale, Illinois to Aaron and Elizabeth ( Willett ) Watkins.

Emily loved to go to concerts and enjoyed playing Tennis and Hand Ball. She was a graduate of Benton High School in 2018.

She is survived by her father, Aaron Watkins and companion Jesse Cover of Eldorado, her mother, Elizabeth Carnery-Wright and husband Aaron of Benton, Step father, Chad and Heather Carney of Benton, brothers and sisters, Carson and Brady Watkins of Elsmere, Kentucky, Makala and Josh Schulte of Highland, Cali and Royce Harris of Marion, Trever Otterson of West Frankfort, Batista Carney of Benton and Bentley McNeely of Benton. Also surviving is his maternal grandmother, Patty Hammonds of Mt. Vernon, special friend, Holdon Marthaler of Mt. Vernon and by several aunts and uncles.

She was preceded in death by his paternal grandparents, Tom and Debbie Watkins.

A time of visitation will be held on Saturday, March 1, 2025 from 5:00 P.M. to 8:00 P.M. at the Parker-Reedy Funeral Home in West Frankfort. Memorial donations can be made to the family to help with funeral expense and will be accepted at the funeral home.

Darlene Johnson, 93, passed away at 10:17 p.m., on Thursday, February 20, 2025, at her home in Thompsonville, IL, surrounded by her family.

She was born on February 28, 1931, to Edward and Mammie (Melvin) Kerley in Thompsonville, IL. On July 1, 1949, she married Jack George Johnson and he preceded her in death on June 15, 2018.

She attended the First Baptist Church in Thompsonville.

Darlene was a loving mother and grandmother. She enjoyed sitting on her swing, planting flowers and watching game shows. She loved visiting with her daughter. In her younger years, she enjoyed camping, fishing and vacationing with her family. Another favorite for Darlene, was taking trips to Walmart and visiting with people she saw there.

Darlene is survived by her children, Terry Johnson and wife, Brenda, of Thompsonville, IL and Pam Wiggins of Benton, IL; nine grandchildren; 18 great-grandchildren; eight great-great-grandchildren and many nieces and nephews that she enjoyed visiting with.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Edward and Mammie Kerley, her husband, Jack George Johnson, her son, Mike Johnson and her son-in-law, G.A. Wiggins.

Services have been entrusted to Pate Funeral Home, 301 South Main Street, Benton, IL.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, February 26, 2025, from 5:00 p.m.to 7:00 p.m. at Pate Funeral Home, Benton, IL.

Funeral services will be held on Thursday, February 27, 2025, at 10:30 a.m., at Pate Funeral Home, Benton, IL, with Brother Larry Miller, officiating.

Following the funeral service, burial will take place in the Masonic and Odd Fellows Cemetery.

Memorials may be made to the First Baptist Church in Thompsonville and will be accepted at the funeral home.

Online condolences can be given at www.patefh.com.

Bryan Scott Hall, known to family and friends as Scott, passed away peacefully on his 54th birthday, February 18, 2025, surrounded by loved ones after a courageous battle with cancer.

Scott was born on February 18, 1971, to Jerry and Peggy (Hitt) Hall in Benton, IL.

He is survived by his devoted wife, Stephanie Fosse-Hall; his son, Blake Hall and wife, Makayla and his beloved grandson, Myles Hall. He also leaves behind his step-daughter, Peyton Fosse and her fiance, Brad Hammond; his parents, Jerry and Peggy Hall; his cherished grandmother, Ora Jean Hitt; his brother, Kevin Hall and wife, Jamie and his nephew, Christian Rawlinson.

He was preceded in death by his maternal grandfather, Herbert Hitt and his paternal grandparents, Randall and Tresie Hall.

Scott had a deep love for his family and friends, always finding joy in bringing people together. He had a passion for cooking and spent many weekends competing in BBQ competitions, sharing his incredible talent and love for good food for friends and especially his Lake family.

Scott dedicated many years to coaching and mentoring young athletes. From 1991 to 1996, he coached junior high basketball and track at Benton. He then went on to coach sophomore basketball at BCHS from 1997 to 1998, the same school where he played basketball and ran track as a student. His love for sports and commitment to his players left a lasting impact on countless students.

For 14 years, Scott worked at Marion Subaru as the service and parts director, where he was known for his hard work and dedication. In his free time, he loved watching NASCAR and cheering on the Alabama Crimson Tide, celebrating every victory with pride. Known for his great sense of humor and unwavering work ethic, Scott was not only a beloved husband, father and grandfather but also a loyal friend to many.

Scott’s presence, laughter and kindness will be deeply missed, but his memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Pate Funeral Home, 301 South Main Street, Benton, IL.

Per Scott’s wishes, cremation will take place and a celebration of life will be held at a later date.

Online condolences can be given at www.patefh.com.

John R. “Grassy” Graskewicz, age 75, passed away at 2:12 p.m. Monday, February 17, 2025, at Fifth Seasons Assisted Living of Benton.

Born in the city of Chicago to Adam and Aleen (Fleming) Graskewicz, John Robert Graskewicz grew up with a strong sense of duty and an enduring love for his community. A proud graduate of Frankfort Community High School in 1967, John embarked on a journey that would define his legacy—one marked by service, leadership, and unwavering commitment to those around him.

John was a veteran and honorably served in the United States Army before pursuing a career in law enforcement. In 1974, he graduated from the Police Academy, launching a distinguished 30-year career in law enforcement. Serving alongside his big brother, Don, with the West Frankfort Police Department before transitioning to the Franklin County Sheriff’s Office, he dedicated his life to protecting and serving his fellow citizens. His work left an indelible mark on Southern Illinois, earning him the respect and gratitude of colleagues and community members alike. His son, Jonathan, followed in his footsteps with a career in law enforcement. John was privileged to work side by side Jonathan on many cases, both in law enforcement and later when John served as Chief Deputy Coroner. John’s outstanding service was recognized with awards from both the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and the Franklin County Sheriff’s Office. After his retirement from law enforcement in 2012, John continued his public service as Chief Deputy Coroner under Coroner Marty Leffler, where he spent an additional ten years ensuring dignity and justice for those in his care.

Before his years in law enforcement, John also worked for a decade at Old Ben Coal Mine 25, a testament to his strong work ethic and dedication to the industries that shaped Southern Illinois. John also served as a member of the board of directors for the West Frankfort Park District, demonstrating his commitment to enhancing recreational spaces and opportunities for his community.

John’s passions extended far beyond his career in public service. A devoted St. Louis Cardinals fan and lifelong sports enthusiast, he was a pioneer in the local sports memorabilia industry. John owned and operated Graskewicz Sports in West Frankfort—one of the first baseball card and sports memorabilia stores in Southern Illinois. His love for the game brought joy to countless fans, as he and his family and friends welcomed and hosted St. Louis Cardinals legends such as Ozzie Smith, Bob Gibson, Mike Shannon, and other Hall of Famers to meet their devoted followers. John’s commitment to the sports world was never just about collecting, it was about fostering connections, celebrating the history of the game, and sharing his enthusiasm with those around him. He also passed down his love for sports memorabilia and his passion for the St. Louis Cardinals to his son, Jonathan, creating cherished memories and a shared appreciation for the game that will live on.

Beyond his professional and entrepreneurial endeavors, John was a man of deep faith. A devout Christian, he exemplified compassion and generosity, always willing to lend a helping and humorous hand. His legacy is one of selflessness and unwavering dedication to his community.

He is survived by his wife Rita (Fitch) Graskewicz of Thompsonville, IL, his son, Jonathan (Jill) Graskewicz of West Frankfort, IL; grandchildren including: Lexi, Logan and husband Josh, Abigayle and husband Chris, Kameran, Breanna and Jackson; two great-grandchildren Lydia and Ellie; his brother, Don (Georgianne) Graskewicz of West Frankfort, IL; two sisters, Sue Jones of Tolono, IL, and Jesse Kobel of West Frankfort, IL, Rita’s daughters Wendy Becker and husband Vince of Troy, IL, Cyndi Louden and husband Travis of Middleburg, FL; along with several nieces and nephews, and many great-nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his loving parents, Adam and Aleen (Fleming) Graskewicz, his infant brother, Jimmy Graskewicz, nephew Jerry Jones, and brothers-in-law Larry Jones and Fred Kobel, father and mother-in-law Rev. Kenneth and Dorothy Fitch, brother-in-law and sister-in-law Cord and Stacey Fitch.

John Robert Graskewicz lived a life of purpose, passion, and profound impact. Whether through his decades of public service, his contributions to the local sports community, or his unwavering kindness and faith, he left an enduring imprint on the lives of those fortunate enough to know him. His legacy will continue to inspire generations to come.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held at 3:00 p.m. Sunday, February 23, 2025, at the Leffler Funeral Home of Benton, IL, with Rev. Ronnie Shelton officiating. Visitation will be held from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. Sunday at the funeral home. A Law Enforcement walk-through will be held at 2:00 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, we invite you to honor John’s enduring commitment to law enforcement by contributing to the John Graskewicz Law Enforcement Memorial Scholarship. Through this scholarship, we seek to uphold his passion for service, ensuring that future generations of students who aspire to protect and serve Franklin County carry forward his dedication, integrity, and unwavering commitment to justice.

To leave online condolences to the family or to share memories of Grassy, visit www.lpfuneralhome.com.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of John R. Graskewicz, please visit our floral store.

Shane Lee Harris-Sesser, IL
April 29, 2003 – February 14, 2025

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Shane Lee Harris, who left us on February 14, 2025, after a courageous battle with epilepsy. Shane’s strength and resilience will forever be remembered by those who loved him.

Shane is survived by his devoted companion, Roxy; his parents, Trent and Alison Cross, and Shawn and Anna Harris; and his siblings, Kinsey Vanwey and her husband Jacob, Robert Hunter Cross, Riley Cross, and Mazie Eubanks; his beloved niece Paislee Vanwey and his grandparents Howard Lee and Nancy Kinsey, Robert and Candance Cross and Larry and Mona Sample. He also leaves behind countless cousins, aunts, and uncles who cherished him dearly.

He was preceded in death by his uncle, Shane Harris; and his grandparents, Tom and Iva Lea Hamilton, Evelyn and Howard Kinsey and Bob and Cindy Harris.

Shane’s family finds solace in knowing that he is now free from the pain that plagued him in life. His passing leaves an irreplaceable void, but the memory of his one-of-a-kind humor, his love for others, and his generosity will live on forever. Anyone who knew Shane could recall the countless funny moments they shared with him, and it was these moments, filled with laughter, that Shane treasured most. Above all, he wanted those around him to smile, and he found joy in making others laugh, even in the toughest of times.

Shane’s illness was the greatest challenge of his life, but his greatest sorrow was the pain it caused his loved ones. Now, as we remember him, we take comfort in the thought that he is at peace, free from his struggles. The family invites everyone who loved him to keep him in their hearts and share in the joyful memories he left behind.

Shane had a deep appreciation for life’s simple pleasures—fishing and hunting with his two dads, playing pool with his Papa, and shed hunting with his Uncle Bobby. He loved the comfort of his friend, John, always teaching him about new hobbies and the love of our Lord. He also cherished the laughter-filled moments with his mom and sister and loved reminiscing about his mischievous boyhood fun he found himself in with his brothers. He found great comfort in his Nana’s cooking and the Cross family’s delicious breakfast casserole and their ability to just listen. These small acts of love meant everything to Shane, and he often worried about those who might not have such support. He would want us all to remember: be that person for someone else, laugh, love, and cherish the small moments.

Shane believed that in the end, it is the good times and the connections we make with others that truly matter. Life is hard, but Shane would encourage us to focus on the joyful moments and to not be afraid of making tough connections as those supersede all materialistic value.

In keeping with Shane’s wishes, his family will hold a private ceremony in honor of his gracious earthly battle.

Shane will be deeply loved and missed until we meet again.

For more information go to our website www.gilbertfuneralhomes.com

Leslie Roland Miller, age 98, completed his earthly life on February 15, 2025, in the same manner in which he lived it; quietly and at peace. Leslie was a loving husband, devoted father, grandfather, friend and was, most importantly, a Christian. He was preceded in death by his mother, Geneva Wilfong.

Nothing was left unsaid with Leslie and at the end of his life, he knew full well what he meant to his family and those fortunate enough to have known him. More importantly, he knew Jesus as his Lord and Savior and was confident in his entrance to heaven and the eternal life bought for him through Christ’s crucifixion.

Leslie was born in 1926 on his family’s small farm just outside of Frederickstown, Missouri. From an early age, he realized that his future hinged upon a quality education and the dream of a college degree. Motivated by a desire to serve his country and the promise of a college education through the GI Bill, Leslie joined the Navy as a 17-year-old high school junior and served in the pacific theatre during World War II. Upon completion of his enlistment, he returned to Frederickstown High School to complete his secondary education. Here, he met Mona Lee Schwaner, his wife of 74 years, and went on to earn a bachelor’s degree in biology and a masters in public health from Southeast Missouri State University and the University of Minnesota, respectively. Leslie’s early career was spent working for county public health departments in Missouri and Illinois. He retired from the Illinois State Public Health Department in 1992.

Leslie was an exceptional father, despite or maybe due to the fact that to the best of this author’s knowledge, he never knew his. Through his devotion to his wife, he showed his family that to love another person, and have that love equally returned is life’s greatest gift.

His passion for fishing, quail hunting and loyal bird dogs was passed on to his sons and close friend Gregg Brown: who entered his life as his son’s buddy and quickly became “family”. Through the lens of hindsight, it is now clear that the hunting and fishing outings Leslie coordinated were designed primarily to instill in the participants a deeper appreciation of God’s handiwork. Each of the bird dogs he loved repaid his kindness through their lifetime devotion to him and were counted among the blessings he cherished. Those of us left to mourn his passing will continue to enjoy an advantage in living our lives that he never had…..his example.

Leslie Miller leaves behind his wife, Mona Lee Miller of Carbondale, Illinois: sons, Timothy (Amy) Miller of St. Louis, Missouri and Mark (Kathy) Miller of Benton, Illinois; grandchildren, Rachel Miller and Andrea Miller, their mother, Lisa Gariepy of Benton, Illinois and dear friend, Gregg (Stephanie) Brown of Austin, Texas.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Pate Funeral Home, 301 South Main Street, Benton, IL.

Per Leslie’s wishes, cremation will take place.

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

Online condolences can be given at www.patefh.com.

Lois Evelyn Smith, 94, of Centralia, IL (formerly of Benton, IL) passed away on Friday morning February 14, 2025 at the Centralia Manor in Centralia, IL.

She was born in Benton, IL on February 5, 1931, the daughter of Rassie & Nellie (McCasland) Summers.

She married Charles Fred Smith, Jr. on February 3, 1951 and he preceded her in death on November 6, 2020.

Lois is survived by her:
3 Children:
Dennis Smith & wife Marya, of Kiawah Island, South Carolina
Denise Brink & husband John of Hoyleton, IL
Darin Smith of Nashville, IL
6 Grandchildren: Cody Smith, Peyton Smith, Amy Baker, Reggie Smith, Hali Swain & Katelyn Wangler
5 Great-Grandchildren
1 Great-Great-Grandchild

Mrs. Smith was preceded in death by her parents, husband and four brothers.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 A.M. on Wednesday, February 19, 2025 at the Morton & Johnston Funeral Home in Benton with Jim Muir officiating. Burial will be in the Brady Cemetery in Akin. Visitation will be from 10:00 A.M. to 11:00 A.M. on Wednesday at the funeral home.

For more information or to send online condolences please visit www.mortonjohnstonfuneralhome.com