Robert R. “Bob” McDaniel, 85, of Ewing passed away Thursday afternoon, November 9, 2023 at SSM Health Good Samaritan in Mt. Vernon.

He was born in Jefferson County, IL on October 10, 1938 the son of Golie & Clara (Lisenby) McDaniel.

He married Pauline (Rowe) on October 14, 1978 and she survives.

Mr. McDaniel was a member of the Whittington Church. He always enjoyed building projects and going to sporting events of his family. He enjoyed golfing, working in the garden and yard work.

Mr. McDaniel is survived by his:
Wife: Pauline McDaniel of Ewing
2 Children:
Jeff McDaniel & wife Brenda of Mt. Vernon
Tracie Downey & husband Bob of Mt. Vernon
3 Step-Children:
Pam Minor & husband Mark of Ewing
Gary Cook & wife Doris of Benton
Kristi Picklesimer & husband Ward of Ewing
Grandchildren:
Michelle Hampton & husband Chad
Scott McDaniel
Rob Downey & wife Ashley
Brian Minor & wife April
Nathan Minor & wife Amy
Emily Skibo & husband Ryan
Erin McCommons & husband Casey
Elizabeth Roberts & husband Rex
Amy Cook
Amber Brayfield & husband Billy
Craig Cook & wife Emilee
Josh Picklesimer
Bryden Picklesimer
Jaron Picklesimer

25 Great-Grandchildren

Mr. McDaniel was preceded in death by his parents.

Funeral services will be held on Monday, November 13th at the Morton & Johnston Funeral Home in Benton with Rev. Mark Minor officiating. Burial will be in the Shiloh Cemetery in Whittington. Visitation will be from 11:00 A.M. to 1:00 P.M. on Monday at the funeral home.
In lieu of flowers, Memorials may be made to the Whittington Church.
For more information or to send online condolences please visit www.mortonjohnstonfuneralhome.com

Mrs. Patricia Madden Kahl, age 93, of Thompsonville, passed away at 11:27 a.m. Tuesday, November 7, 2023, at the Herrin Hospital, with her loving family at her side.

Mrs. Kahl’s wishes are to be cremated.

She also requested two separate Memorial Services.
The first service will be a Memorial Mass at 11:00 a.m. Saturday, November 11, 2023, at the St. Joseph Catholic Church of Benton, with Father Urban Osuji officiating. Visitation will be from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. Saturday at the St. Joseph Catholic Church.
The second service will be a Memorial Celebration of Life Service at 2:00 p.m. Saturday, November 11, 2023, at the Leffler Funeral Home of Benton, with Rev. Rick McClintock officiating. Visitation will be from 1:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. Saturday at the Leffler Funeral Home.

Patricia was born on January 18, 1930, in Chicago, Illinois, the daughter of Clair W. Madden and Grace (Roberts) Madden. She married Richard William Kahl on June 16, 1951, and he preceded her in death on August 14, 1978.

Mrs. Kahl was a retired secretary having worked with the Department of Veterans Affairs in St. Petersburg, Florida.

She enjoyed reading, playing the organ, spending time with her family, especially family gatherings. Her family said she was an artist and enjoyed painting and drawing.

She was a member of St. Joseph Catholic Church of Benton.

Surviving are four children: Jean Dietz and husband Mike of Ingleside, IL, Carol Ann Stewart and husband Norman of Hot Springs, AR, Sandra Kahl and husband Chuck of Thompsonville, IL, Christina Reynolds and husband Rick of Fox Lake, IL; thirteen grandchildren and thirteen great-grandchildren; a brother Bernard Madden and wife Jacqueline of West Chicago, IL.

Mrs. Kahl was preceded in death by her parents, husband, a daughter Mary Ellen Schultz (1998), and two sisters: Jean Alice Madden and Marjorie Ellen Thomas.

The family prefers Memorials be made to the St. Joseph Catholic Church of Benton and will be accepted at both services.

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

Musician, wordsmith, Husband, Father, Papa, Uncle, jammer, entrepreneur, friend to all, stranger to none. Earl Dean Barwig (Buddy) lived a full 65 years until his last breath, November 3, 2023. He passed peacefully, surround by his three daughters and his loving wife of 44 years by his bedside.

Earl was born in St Louis, Missouri, April 29, 1958. A life-long Cardinals fan, he moved around the world just to come back to Cardinal country and raise his family in Benton, Illinois. Earl served his country in the Army for five years. After meeting his other half in South Korea, he left the Army as a Specialist E4. Married November 21st, 1979, Earl and Suk Hui moved to Colorado where he was introduced to the pizza business. The rest, as they say, is history. Earl was a four store franchisee for Domino’s Pizza for 33 years. He took pride in his businesses and in the fact that he could use his success to help others. Aside from pizza, becoming a dad and a Papa was of utmost importance to Earl. He certainly didn’t disappoint when it came to wholeheartedly loving his family.

He was proceeded in death by his parents, David and Garnet Barwig and two brothers, David Lee Barwig and Wayne Fitzwater. He is survived by his loving wife, Suk Hui, three daughters, Kim Brandon (Dustin), Dawn Simpson, and Kristin Walton (Aaron), seven grandkids, Savannah Simpson, Deakon Brandon, Liam Simpson, Alexandria Walton, Easton Brandon, Charlotte Walton, and Lincoln Walton, sisters Barbara Bradford and Winnie Lichtenstadt, several nieces and nephews, cousins, and countless friends who loved and respected him very much.

Dad/Papa was our biggest fan, critic, and coach. He’d tell us when we made him proud and level with us when he knew we could do better. Despite this and because of this, we will always remember how fiercely he loved us. He taught anyone who would listen, “leave it better than you found it.” Earl did just that. Thank you for leaving this world and everyone you met better than you found us. We will carry you in our hearts forever.

Earl’s memorial will be held at Morton and Johnston Funeral Home in Benton on Thursday, November 9th, 2023 from 3:00 to 6:00 pm. His family will be present to welcome loved ones. His funeral will be a private ceremony held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made in Earl’s name to CASA of Franklin and Hamilton Counties.

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

Clarence Newton Benard, age 88, of Benton, went to be with his Lord and Savior at 3:50 p.m. Friday, November 3, 2023, at the Helia Healthcare of Benton.

Funeral Services will be held at 1:00 p.m. Thursday, November 9, 2023, at the Leffler Funeral Home of Benton, with Pastor Alan Newman officiating. Burial with Military Honors provided by the Benton American Legion Post #280, Benton V.F.W. Post #2671, and the U.S. Army National Guard, will be in the Masonic & Odd Fellows Cemetery of Benton. Visitation will be from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. on Thursday, at the Leffler Funeral Home of Benton.

On September 24, 1935, Clarence Newton Benard was born, the sixteenth child to David Henry Benard and Lillian Ethel (Sims) Benard. He would marry the former Barbara Ruth Beaty on April 2, 1961, and after 55 years and 11 months of marriage, Barbara preceded him in death on March 3, 2017.

Clarence was a retired schoolteacher. He taught Ag classes first with Ashley High School, followed by Thompsonville High School, Enfield High School, and closing out his teaching career as the Science and AG teacher at N.C.O.E. High School. He was also the FFA Sponsor at each of these schools.

Clarence was a member at Faith Missionary Baptist Church of Christopher, Illinois. He was always actively involved with the music at the church he was worshipping. He was the song leader/music minister at numerous churches throughout Southern Illinois. He and his late wife Barbara would also be in charge of the music ministry for many area Revival services. Clarence and the late Merle Fullerton started a radio program known as “The Baptist Voice” and could be heard weekly on WMIX.
He enjoyed gardening, singing, working puzzles, listening to Southern Gospel Music, traveling, and camping in his RV, and he and Barbara enjoyed spending winters in Florida. He was also proud to have been a farmer. Most of all, he enjoyed spending time with his family, especially his grandkids.

Clarence proudly served his country in the U.S. Army from October of 1958 to August of 1960, obtaining the rank of PFC. He would be transferred to the U.S. Army Corps Reserves fulfilling his Reserves obligation until October 1964.

He is survived by three daughters: Marla Harp and husband Richard of Benton, Aletha Jackson and husband Robert of Benton, Sonya Dorris and husband John of Paducah, KY; six grandchildren: Jared Harp and wife Jordan of Carterville, IL, Josh Harp and wife Casey of Mt. Vernon, IL, Nick Shelton and wife Alexia of Sylvester, GA, Zack Dorris and wife Brook of Glasgow, KY, Macy Jo McManus and husband Cameron of Murray, KY, Katlin Jackson of Benton, IL; two great-grandchildren: Teagan Nicole Harp and Tucker Allan Harp; and several nieces and nephews.

Mr. Benard was preceded in death by his parents, wife, an infant daughter Angela Faye Benard, a daughter Darla Kay Benard, and fifteen brothers and sisters.
The family prefers Memorials be made to the Faith Missionary Baptist Church of Christopher or to Glad Heart; and will be accepted at the services.
To leave online condolences to the family, or to share memories of Clarence, visit www.lpfuneralhome.com.

Marietta Waller, 88, of Thompsonville passed away Wednesday, November 1, 2023 at her home.

Marietta was born November 18, 1934 in Macedonia, IL.The daughter of John Carl & Lizzie Frances (Cutwright) Biddle.

She married Bobby Gean Waller on December 27, 1952. They enjoyed traveling all over the states in their camper.
She loved taking care of her family and dogs.
She is survived by her daughter, Linda Harris of Murphysboro, Her Grandson, Eric Gean Harris of Murphysboro. Her sister, Betty Davis of Benton.

She is preceded in death by her parents and husband.

Funeral services will be held at 1:00 P.M. on Sunday, November 5th at the Morton & Johnston Funeral Home in Benton. Burial will be in the Brady Cemetery in Akin.

Visitation will be from 11:00 A.M. to 1:00 P.M. on Sunday at the funeral home.
For more information or to send online condolences please visit www.mortonjohnstonfuneralhome.com

Roselene Galayda, 91, of Buckner passed away on Monday evening October 30, 2023 at the Memorial Hospital of Carbondale.

She was born in Sesser, IL on July 17, 1932, the daughter of Claude & Brasher (Harper) Chamness.

Roselene married Eli Galayda on July 25, 1953. She was a loving wife, Mother, Grandmother and Great-Grandmother. She was very kind, a hard worker and loved her family.

Mrs. Galayda is survived by her:
Husband: Eli Galayda of Buckner
Son: Eli S. Galayda & wife Shelley of Mulkeytown
Grandsons:
Eli M. Galayda & wife Nicole and their children Eli, Callen & Brenley
Kyle David Galayda & wife Kelsey and their children Finley & Amelia
1 Sister: Pearl Mitchell

Mrs. Galayda was preceded in death by her parents, son-Charles Michael Galayda and serveral Brothers & Sisters.

Graveside funeral services will be held at 2:00 P.M. on Saturday, November 4th at the Orthodox Cemetery in Buckner with Bro. Ivan Ryan officiating. There will be
no visitation, those attending the service are requested to meet at the cemetery.
For more information or to send online condolences please visit www.mortonjohnstonfuneralhome.com

Craig Jesse Arthur Williamson Parrish, age 40, of Benton, passed away at 2:00 a.m. Wednesday, October 25, 2023, at his home.

His wishes are to be cremated. A Memorial Celebration of Life Service will be held at a future date.

Leffler Funeral Home of Benton; is in charge of the cremation arrangements.

Craig was born on July 29, 1983, in St. Louis, MO, the son of Sandra Lee.

Fatz enjoyed music, especially the music of Dimebag Darrell. He was a family man that loved his kids. His family said that he was always trying to find the silver lining in life. Fatz was always positive and would always say “keep pushing.” He liked to collect flashlights and knives.
He is survived by his companion Mariah Varis of Benton; his children: Hannah Parrish of House Springs, MO, Megan Parrish of House Springs, MO, Isaiah Parrish of Benton, IL, and Jace Varis also of Benton, IL; his siblings: Caressa Mezo and husband Larry of West Frankfort, IL, Candy Hilton of St. Clair, MO, Ted Hilton of Kansas City, MO, Chad Parrish of Hillsboro, MO, and Michael Parrish of St. Clair, MO; several nieces and nephews; and numerous lifelong friends.
Craig was preceded in death by his mother Sandra Lee Hilton, a daughter Peyton Parrish (died Dec. 26, 2008), a sister Cindy Hilton, and three brothers: Scott Hilton, Shaun Hilton, and Roy Hilton.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the family to assist with cremation expenses, in care of Leffler Funeral Home, 401 East Main Street, Benton, IL 62812.
To leave online condolences to the family, or to share memories of Fatz, visit www.lpfuneralhome.com.

Priscilla Helton, 64, of Christopher, passed away on Wednesday October 25, 2023 at Countryside Manor Nursing Home in Mt Vernon.

She was born on July 10, 1959 in Christopher to Phillip and Doris June (Annear) Ensinger. She married James “Jim” Helton Jr. on May 28, 1978 and he preceded her in death on November 22, 2004.

She is survived by her two brothers Jerry (Kathy) Ensinger of Sesser and Vernon Atkins of Dixon, IL and several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents and her husband.

Funeral services will be on Monday October 30, 2023 at the Gilbert Funeral Home in Christopher with Pastor Steve Reeves officiating. Visitation will be on Monday from 11:00 AM until the time of the service at 1:00 PM. Burial will be at the Mt Pleasant Cemetery in Valier.

In lieu of flowers donation can be made to Jerry Ensinger to help with funeral and medical expenses and will be accepted at the funeral home.

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

Carl Henry Roberts, 80, of Whittington, beloved father, grandfather, passed away on Tuesday October 24, 2023 at Herrin Hospital with his family by his side.

He was born on October 17, 1943 in Sesser, IL to Verna (Harrison) Roberts and Archie Roberts.

He worked at Old Ben Coal till they closed in 1991, he managed Anrap Rentals for many years and retired from Southern Illinois Tourism.

What made him the happiest was spending time with his children, grandchildren and great grandchildren.

He is survived by his children Mark Roberts, Mike (Tammy) Roberts and Kimberly Roberts all of Whittington; grandchildren Rex (Elizabeth) Roberts, Tiff (Curtis) Hodge, Angelle (Billy) Hofman, Tyler (Deanna) Roberts, Nic Roberts and Dakota Overturf; 11 great grandchildren; one brother Cecil (Beckie) Roberts of Sesser; one special nephew David Despain and numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, one sister Goldie Payne, brother-in-law Carl Payne, one nephew Eddie Jones and one niece Yvonne Frey.

Funeral services will be on Saturday October 28, 2023 at 1:00 PM at the Brayfield-Gilbert Funeral Home in Sesser with Brother Mark Minor officiating. Visitation will be on Saturday from 11:00 AM until the time of the service at 1:00 PM. Burial will be at Shiloh Cemetery in Whittington.

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

Nora Thomasina (Crews) Hammel, 91, of Valier, IL., passed away at 11:33 a.m., on Monday, October 23, 2023, at the Franklin Hospital, Benton, IL.

She was born on April 4, 1932, to Edgar and Ruth (Henson) Crews in Valier, IL. Thomasina had two sisters, Nancy (Crews) Michaelson and Lynn (Crews) Bradley; and one brother Edgar L. (Buzz) Crews.

Thomasina married Bob Jones and together they had two children, Randy Jones and Barbara Androvandi. On May 15, 1964, Thomasina married Foster Deane Hammel. They had a daughter, Deana Lynn (Hammel) Coons. They shared 45 years together. Deane went to be with the Lord on Feburary 9, 2009. Thomasina is with the Lord and Savior. To be absent from the body and is to be present with the Lord. Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of the saints- We are confident Thomasina is present with the Lord and we are awaiting joining her in glory. Thomasina served the Lord her whole life, teaching Sunday School, attending Church faithfully and was always surrounded with her Bible and Devotionals daily as she was in the Word. She was an example to her family, and we strive to follow in her footsteps until we join her.

Nora is survived by her children, Randy (Linda) Jones, Barb Androvandi, Deana (Paul) Coons; brother, Buzz Crews; sister, Nancy Michaelson; grandchildren, Sheena (Jimmy Cox) Androvandi; Grandson, Matthew (Shelby) Androvandi; great-grandchildren, Emily, Braydon, Braxton, Ryan, Ronnie, Wesley, Noah and Jaxson; and several nieces, nephews, great-nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Edgar and Ruth Crews; husband, Foster Deane Hammel; sister, Lynn Bradley; and sister-in-law, Brenda Crews.

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

Graveside services will be held on Wednesday, October 25, 2023, 1:00 p.m., at the Masonic and Odd Fellows Cemetery, Benton, IL, with Pastor Kevin Bradley, officiating.

Memorial contributions may be made to First Baptist Church of Valier and will be accepted at the funeral home.

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