Rohney Eugene Bacon, 65, of Cleburn, passed away on September 8, 2020 in St Louis, MO surrounded by his wife and daughters.

He was born on March 29, 1955 in Christopher to Eugene Lyle and Violet Ann (Poweski) Bacon. He married Susan (Webb) Bacon on February 15, 1980 and she survives of Cleburn.

He is also survived by his two daughters Amy Jo (Matt) Bagwell of Zeigler and Alyssa (Jordan) Cavins of Christopher; three grandchildren Star, Jonathon and Carter. He was loved by his entire family.

He was preceded in death by his parents, one daughter April Ann Bacon and one sister Donna Bacon.

He had worked at Larry’s Trailers Sales in Zeigler.

His wishes were to be cremated with a private family service.

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

Robert Wayne Rone passed away on Saturday, August 1st, 2020, at the VA Medical Center in San Juan, Puerto Rico. Robert was born on July 22nd, 1952 to Robert and Shirley (Thomas) Rone in Peoria, Illinois. Robert was a veteran of the United States Navy and served in the Vietnam War.

On December 13th, 1975, Robert married Sandra Fitzpatrick. They had one child together during their marriage. Though they did not remain married, Robert always said she was the love of his life, the only one for him.

Robert is survived by his daughter, Theresa (Thomas) Herron of West Frankfort, Illinois; one step-daughter, Dana Dotty of Carterville, Illinois; one sister, Roberta (Jimmie) Bayless of Akin, Illinois; grandchildren, Micaela (Corey) Baltzell of Johnston City, Illinois, Trenton Pritchett of Goreville, Illinois; five step grandchildren, Taylor Lappin of Savannah, Georgia, Brenden Lappin of Marion, Illinois, Colin Whitehead of Goreville, Illinois, Savannah and Wende Herron of West Frankfort, Illinois; two great-grandchildren, Maverick and Maddox Baltzell of Johnston City, Illinois; Nieces and nephews, Alicia Rone-Williams of West Frankfort, Illinois, Daryl Shannon Rone of Carrier Mills, Illinois, Jason (Amanda) Rone of Benton, Kentucky, Leeann Bayless of Akin, Illinois, Travis Rone of Akin, Illinois, Ryder and China Rone of Herrin, Illinois; great nieces and nephews, Logan Bayless of Akin, Illinois, Emma Rone of Akin, Illinois and Rue Rone of Herrin, Illinois.

He is also survived by two sister-in-laws, Janet Rone of Akin, Illinois, Lisa Rone of Herrin, Illinois.

He is proceeded in death by his parents, Robert Lee Rone and Shirley Ann Rone, his brothers Ricky Rone, Roger Rone, Ronnie Rone and Roy Rone as well as his paternal and maternal grandparents.

In his last days, Robert spent his time reminiscing with his daughter, Theresa over the good times that were had together throughout their lives. They listened to some of their favorites songs which included “Old Time Rock and Roll” and wished to go back to the days where they would roller skate together and dance disco. He also loved to listen to his granddaughter sing to him as he believed it was the most beautiful sound he had ever heard.

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted in Pate Funeral Home, 301 S. Main St. Benton, Illinois.

A graveside service will be held at 10:00 am., Saturday, September 12th, 2020, at the Brady Cemetery in Akin, Illinois with Pastor Stan Serati and Kent Burns officiating services. Military rites will follow services by the Benton American Legion Post 2671 and the United States Navy Honors.

Online condolences may be expressed at www.patefh.com

Julia Ann Milton (Collins) “Julie”, 69, of Benton, Illinois passed away peacefully on Sunday morning, September 06, 2020 at her home.

She was surrounded by her loving family at the time of her passing. She was born April 19, 1951, in Cairo, Illinois to William Greenley and Mary Josephine Siers Collins. Julie graduated from Egyptian High School in Tamms, Illinois in 1969 and went on to receive her nursing degree from Baptist Memorial School of Nursing in Memphis, Tennessee. Julie spent all of her career as a Registered Nurse before retiring at the age of 63. Caring for others was something that she held near and dear to her heart. She also loved gardening, cooking, reading, boating, exercising, and most of all, spending time with her grandchildren and family.

Julie married Barry Milton on April 21, 1973 at Shaeffer Memorial Chapel in Germantown, Tennessee. They spent a majority of their married life living in Iowa before making their final move to southern Illinois in 2002 where they have presided since.

Julie is survived by her two children, Joseph (Angela) Milton of Germantown Hills, Illinois and Emily (Timothy) Milligan of Benton, Illinois.
She is survived by four beautiful grandchildren: Riley Tschannen of Benton, Illinois, Leoni Milton of Germantown Hills, Illinois, Hazel Milton of Germantown Hills, Illinois and Mack Milligan of Benton, Illinois. Julie is survived by her brother-in-law, Stephen Milton of Boca Raton, Florida and sister-in-law, Judi Collins of Tallahassee, Florida. She is also survived by nephrews; Wade Collins of Tallahassee, Florida, Zach (Alex) Kluesner of Columbia, Missouri, nieces; Katy (Nic) Christie of Crawfordville, Florida, Lacy (Ryan) Turner of Thebes, Illinois, and Alli Kluesner of Jackson, Missouri. She also leaves behind many dear friends.
Julie was preceded in death by her mother, Jo Collins, her father, Bill Collins, her two brothers, Mark (Kim) Collins and Kevin (Judi) Collins, and her sister, Joanie (Jim) Kluesner.

Visitation will be Friday, September 11 from 3:00 – 5:00 P.M. at the Morton & Johnston Funeral Home in Benton. A private family and close friends Celebration of Life will follow at 5:00 P.M. with Jere Gowin officiating.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the American Diabetes Association in honor of Julie Milton. The family would like to thank Shirley Davis, her caregiver, and Hospice of Southern Illinois for providing such exceptional care and comfort.
We are limited to 50 people in our building at a time. As per the CDC and local health guidelines, everyone attending is asked to observe social distancing. For everyone attending masks are required, and they will be made available upon request.
For more information or to send online condolences please visit www.mortonjohnstonfuneralhome.com

Sybil Jane Davison, 91, passed away peacefully at home on Monday, September 7th, surrounded by her family.

Sybil Harrison was born November 9, 1928, in the “Harrison House” on North State Street, which still stands, the daughter of Russell Theodore and Margaret Bione Harrison. She was a descendent of Christopher Harrison after whom the City was named.

Throughout her life, Sybil was active in the community and area organizations, among which were the Christopher Betterment Association, Christopher Area Youth Association, West Franklin Historical Society, CCHS Alumnae Bearcat Boosters, Beta Sigma Phi Chapters, and Christopher Business & Professional Women.

She also served on the Christopher Elementary School Board for 18 years, 13 years as Secretary as well as the Christopher Public Library Board for 15 years, 8 as Secretary, Franklin-Jefferson Special Education Board, Franklin-Williamson Human Resources Board, Franklin County Zoning Commission, St. Andrew’s Parish Council.

Sybil was also a member of the University of Missouri Alumnae Association and Gamma Phi Beta Sorority Alumnae. Two years in a row, she was picked FanFare for 50 for Outstanding Women on Campus. And listed as Who’s Who of American Women.

She was a bowler for 20 years with the Monday night Women’s League on The Vogue team.

She and her husband served as consultants with the International Service Corps in Panama.

She attended the University of Missouri and received a Bachelor of Journalism degree, graduating in 1950, where President Truman gave the graduating address.

An enthusiastic sports promoter and participant, she volunteered in teaching tennis and swimming. She served as assistant coach of the 1st Christopher Girls Softball Team in 1979.

As a student at Lincoln Junior High, she received a letter as a member and pitcher of the boys softball team. Special permission was granted for her to participate in this sport.

Following her graduation from the University of Missouri, her first job in journalism was as Editor of the Glen Ellyn News. She also served as Editor of the newspapers owned by she and her husband and was nominated for Illinois Editor of the Year.

She is survived by five children: Gregory William (and wife Debra), Timothy Joseph (and wife Barbara, Topeka, Kansas), Jodie Jane Toney, Mary Margaret (Austin, Texas), and Matthew Russell. Also living are her husband, Joseph William to whom she has been married for 64 years, and her sister, Mary Louise Munsell from California.. She was preceded in death by her son, Stephen Harrison, who was killed in an automobile accident in 1978.

Her grandchildren include Dr. Jamie Davison Link, Julie Davison, Mandy Engleken, Missy Heinen, Megan Patterson, Will Toney, and 15 great-grandchildren.

Funeral services will be held at St. Andrew’s Chapel in Christopher, Illinois, on Thursday September 10, 2020 at 3:00 PM with visitation at the church from 1:00 PM until the time of the service at 3:00 PM followed burial at the St. Andrew’s Catholic Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Andrew’s Chapel, Christopher Library Board, or Franklin County Animal Rescue.

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

Norman Ernest Brown, 78, of Marion, passed away on Saturday September 5, 2020 at Heartland Regional Medical Center in Marion.

He was born on March 14, 1942 in Mulkeytown to Louie and Helen (O’Dell) Brown. He married Sheila (Atchison) Brown on November 29, 1963 and she survives of Marion.

He is also survived by his children Pamela Sue Quinn of Barnhart, MO, Debra Kay Wilson of Johnston City, IL and Sherry Don Campbell of Marion; grandchildren Melissa (Chris) Bourque, James (Summer) Quinn, Stephanie (Jake) Page, Sammie Wilson, Ashleigh Rea Campbell, Jobi Ray Hart and Norman Jacob Campbell; great grandchildren Jersey, Journey, Jakson, McKenna, Nico and James; two sisters Donna Stritzel of Hillsboro, IL, Brenda Brown of Millstadt; one brother Roger (Jan) Brown of Mulkeytown.

He was preceded in death by his parents and one brother-in-law Daniel Stritzel.

He was a United States Army Veteran and President of the National Mine Electrical Group. He was also a Deacon of the Heartland Christian Church in Marion.

He enjoyed fishing, gardening and especially spending time with his family and friends.

Graveside services will be on Thursday September 10, 2020 at 11:00 AM at the Mulkeytown Cemetery with Pastor Greg Gibbs officiating. Visitation will be on Wednesday September 9, 2020 from 5:00 PM until 8:00 PM at the Gilbert Funeral Home in Christopher. Burial will be at the Mulkeytown Cemetery in Mulkeytown, IL.

In lieu of flowers donations can be made to the Heartland Christian Church in Marion. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home.

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

Danny Gene Partin, 69, of Zeigler, passed away on September 2, 2020 at his home.

He was born on June 7, 1951 in Marion to Doug and Helen (Hiller) Partin.

He is survived by his daughter Twila Ann (Jeff) Wyskiver-Cooper of Marion, IL; one sister Denise Horton of Carbondale, IL and one nephew Andrew Horton of Chicago, IL.

He was preceded in death by his parents and one brother Dennis Partin.

He was a Coal Miner and had worked at Inland Steel and Old Ben Coal companies and had worked at Maytag for many years until his retirement. He was also a Veteran of the United States Navy and served during the Korean War.

His wishes were to be cremated with no services.

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

Eugene Michael Kathalynas gained his wings and entered the gates of Heaven on September 2, 2020 at 3:42 PM surrounded by his loving family. Gene was born on May 13, 1936 to Edward & Helen Kathalynas in West Frankfort, IL. He married Sue Stacey on January 12, 1957.

He was the owner and founder of Kathalynas Construction. At the age of 80 he hung up his overalls and laid down his hammer and fully retired. He passed on his construction knowledge to his children and grandchildren. His work can be seen all over Southern Illinois in many homes and businesses. He loved hunting and fishing with his children and grandchildren. He also enjoyed the company of his close friends and family frying fish and having a good time.

He is survived by his two sons, Mike (Linda) Kathalynas of West Frankfort, Marty (Rhonda) of Benton, and one daughter Melissa (Jeff) Perry of West Frankfort; grandchildren, Mike, Ryan (Allyson), Tim (Abby), Marty (Rachael) Kathalynas, Stacey (Josh Petro) DeRossett, Tony (Andi) Bowers, Steven (Sean) Frey, & Steve Doll; great-grandchildren, Raelyn, Alivia, Kade, Jace, Harlyn & Brynn Kathalynas. Giovanni & Bentley DeRossett, Sloane Bowers, Brody Petro, & Alyssa & McKayla Perry.

He is also survived by his sisters-in-laws Joyce Baumert, Brenda Kay (Bill) Whittington, Marilyn Stacey and several nieces and nephews.

He is proceeded in death by his wife Sue of 60 years, Granddaughter Felecia Doll, his parents Ed and Helen, Brother Ed, sisters Sylvia Miller, Ann Johnson, Helen (Ken) Limstrom. Father & Mother-in-law Buck & Eva Alverta Stacey, Brother & sister-in-law Esther (Jewel) King, Oma (Homer) Peek, Bob (Thea) Stacey, Bill Stacey & Jerry Baumert.

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

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Pate Funeral Home, 301 S. Main St., Benton, IL.

Online condolences maybe left at www.patefh.com

Roy John Kretz, 61, passed away Saturday, August 29 at Lavender Ridge in Mt. Vernon after a long illness.

He was born on September 27, 1958 in Chicago, Illinois the son of Roy Peter Kretz and Mary Helen Kretz (Chizmadia). He is survived by his son RJ Kretz (Mynette) of Champaign, two grandchildren Addie and Mason; one brother Robert (Lisa) Kretz of Bluford and his daughter Shannon Kretz and two sisters, Catherine Kretz of Bloomington and her children Kali (Chris) Poulard, Charles (Michelle) Boaz and Todd (Lauren) Boaz and Cindy Kretz (Dave Stark) of Mulkeytown. He was proceeded in death by his parents.

Roy was a graduate of Illinois State University and he worked for the Illinois Department of Revenue as an auditor his entire career. He liked gardening, hiking and outdoor activities and was a member of the Audubon society, which complemented his many outdoor adventures. He was an enthusiastic comic collector with Superman being his main hero character and he attended numerous comic conventions.

He enjoyed spending time with family and you would regularly find him in many Euchre card games. Roy enjoyed the variety of Southern Illinois vineyards and he would always find some new offerings to add to his taste of wines. He was a member of the St. Andrews Catholic Church Knights of Columbus.

Visitation will be on Tuesday September 1, 2020 from 6:00 PM until 8:00 PM and on Wednesday 8:00 AM until 9:30 AM at the Gilbert Funeral Home in Christopher. Funeral Mass will be on Wednesday September 2, 2020 at 10:00 AM at the St. Andrews Catholic Church in Christopher with Father Urban Osuji officiating. Burial will be at St Andrews Catholic Cemetery in Christopher. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that memorials may be made to the Knights of Columbus. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home. Roy was loved by his many friend’s and family. The family would like to extend a special thank you to the compassionate care provided to Roy at Lavender Ridge Memory Care and through SSM Hospice.

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