Bonita “Bonnie” Helen Wininger, left us peacefully on the evening of August 31, 2024, surrounded by her family in the home she loved for nearly sixty years. She was born on January 22, 1945, in California to Bonnie Snider and Allen Christopher.

She found her soulmate in Don Wininger, marrying him on April 20, 1981, in Benton, Illinois. Together, they shared nearly forty wonderful years before his death in 2020.

Bonnie graduated from Benton Consolidated High School and Southern Illinois University. During her 30-year career with Head Start she touched the lives of countless children, leaving a lasting impact.

Bonnie was a member of Benton’s Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses.

Traveling as a family was a joy for Bonnie. Branson was a favorite destination for both Bonnie and Don that held a special place in their hearts. Above all, Mom’s greatest pride was her family. She often said her seven children were her greatest achievement, and her love extended to her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

In her final years, Mom showed incredible strength and devotion, caring for Don and her son Ryan during their illnesses. Her selfless love and unwavering support were a testament to her character, even as she faced profound loss when they preceded her in death in 2020 and 2023. Mom’s life was a beautiful tapestry of love, dedication, and service. Her warm smile, gentle spirit, and nurturing nature will be deeply missed but forever cherished by all who knew her.

Mom is survived by her loving family: her children Kimberly (Dale Houseworth) Livesay, Robin Culbreth, Stephen Livesay, Beth Livesay, Kevin Livesay, and Kristen Garner; her grandchildren Nicholas (Emily) Culbreth, Emily Culbreth, Ashlynn Heavrin, Ainsley Mueller, Molly (Chris) Baker, Josh Houseworth, and Zach Houseworth; and her great-grandchildren Calvin Culbreth, Archer Culbreth, RayAnne Baker, Allyson Winemiller, Sydney Baker, and Ava Baker.

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

Per Bonnie’s wishes cremation has taken place.

A visitation will be held on Friday, September 6, 2024, from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m, at Pate Funeral Home.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Benton Public Library and Hospice of Southern Illinois and will be accepted at the funeral home.

Condolences may be expressed at www.patefh.com

William Thomas Tate, age 62, of Benton, passed away at 3:10 a.m. Sunday, September 1, 2024, at his home in Benton.

Funeral services will be held at 1:00 p.m. Saturday, September 7, 2024, at the Leffler Funeral Home of Benton, with Rev. Mark Minor officiating. Burial will follow in the Masonic & Odd Fellows Cemetery of Benton. Visitation will be from 11:00 a.m. Saturday, September 7, 2024, until the funeral hour at 1:00 p.m.

Memorial contributions are preferred and may be made payable to the family to assist with the funeral expenses, and will be accepted at the Leffler Funeral Home, 401 East Main Street, Benton, Illinois 62812.

Tom was born on March 31, 1962, in Gary, Indiana, the son of Charles “Bud” Tate and Patricia A. (Tamm) Tate.

He was a graduate of Benton Consolidate High School Class of 1980.

He worked in the maintenance department for Hamilton Memorial Hospital in McLeansboro, Illinois. Tom was a Christian.

Tom was a devout Chicago Cubs fan. He enjoyed hunting, especially ducks and deer. He loved to fish, dining out, driving around Rend Lake looking for deer, and woodworking. He enjoyed making and giving away many of his woodworking projects for others to enjoy. Tom also enjoyed traveling to Florida and Hawaii. Most of all he loved his family and cherished the time he spent with his grandchildren.

Surviving is his daughter Tiffany Diana Wright and husband Travis of Sesser, Illinois; his son Wyatt Thadeus Edward Tate of Benton, Illinois; three grandchildren: Ty Deven Newell, Caden Walker Newell and Maci Sophia Wright, all of Sesser, Illinois; his mother Patricia Tate of Benton, Illinois; siblings including: Gina Tate, Shannon Tate, Jeremy Tate, Scott Tate and Benjamin Tate, all of Benton, Illinois; two step-sisters: Christi Volkman and husband Paul of Benton, Illinois, Hanna Akin and husband Tyler of Belle Rive, Illinois; close friend Tina Sue Tate of Pennsylvania; an aunt Alice Schablowsky and husband Rick of Mulkeytown, Illinois; an uncle Larry Tate of Benton, Illinois; several cousins, nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his father Charles “Bud” Tate, stepmother Dolores Carter Tate; an uncle Clarence Tate; and two aunts Beulah Overturf and Marie Williams.

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

It is with heavy, praise filled hearts that we announce the passing of Paulette Sullivan, our beloved mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, who went to be with her Lord and Savior on 8/28/2024 at the age of 82.

Born on February 20, 1942, in Cook County, IL. Paulette was a woman of deep faith and unwavering devotion to her family. She was the loving wife of Floyd Ray Sullivan for 46 years, and together they built a home filled with love, laughter, and the gospel of Jesus Christ.
Paulette was a nurturing and selfless mother to her seven children: Lori (Randy) Ash, Tina (Jim) Howe, Steven (Teresa) Richard, Daniel (Marla) Sullivan, Missy (George) Shread, Jeremy (Kris) Sullivan, and Carol Allen instilling in them the values of faith, kindness, and perseverance. Her grandchildren and great-grandchildren were the light of her life, and she took immense joy in watching them grow, always offering her prayers, unconditional love, and homecooked meals. She showed her love through serving her family.

Paulette’s phenomenal home-cooked meals reached beyond her family to her community. She found much fulfillment and touched the lives of countless students during her 43-year career as the head cook at Zeigler-Royalton District 188.

Her faith was the cornerstone of her life. Paulette was an active member of Royalton Baptist Church since 1967, where she found joy in serving others, teaching bible study, working in Vacation Bible School, and cooking fellowship meals. Her gentle spirit and generous heart touched the lives of all who knew her.
Paulette leaves behind a legacy of faith, love, and grace. She is survived by her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and a large extended family who will miss her dearly but find comfort in knowing she is at peace in the presence of the Lord.

A celebration of Paulette’s life will be held on Saturday, September 14, 2024, at 1:00 p.m. at the Royalton Baptist Church, with Revs. Ron Knox, James Ebbs, and Mario Ramos officiating. Burial will follow at Masonic & Odd Fellows Cemetery in Benton, IL. Visitation will be from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Saturday, at the church. The family invites all who knew and loved her to join them in remembering her remarkable life.
Memorial contributions in memory of Mrs. Sullivan, may be made to the Royalton Baptist Church and will be accepted at the services.

To leave online condolences to the family, or to share memories of Paulette, visit www.lpfuneralhome.com.
Services are under the direction of the Leffler Funeral Home of Benton.
“Well done, good and faithful servant; enter into the joy of your Lord.” (Matthew 25:23)
“Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths.” (Proverbs 3:4-5)

Sharon Sue Majdich, known affectionately as Sue, passed away on August 27, 2024 at the age of 80 with family by her side. Born on July 2, 1944, in Christopher, IL, she was the beloved daughter of Doc and Thelma Hammonds.

She is survived by her husband, Randy Majdich, and her sons Wesley (Ewar) Cook, Andrew (Julie) Cook, and Anthony (Kim) Majdich. She will also be fondly remembered and loved by her grandchildren, Halle Majdich, Emma Cook, Nicholas Cook and sisters Wilma, Rita and Debbie along with several nieces and nephews. Her parents, Doc and Thelma Hammonds and six siblings, Shirley Kirchner, Jesse, Frances, Lee, Leroy and Jerry Hammonds preceded her in death.

A passionate painter, Sue found joy and expression through her art and in painting of ceramic figurines, which brought beauty into the lives of those around her. Although she hasn’t been able to paint for several years, her creative spirit will be dearly missed by her family and friends. Sue’s life was marked by her love for her family and dedication to her artwork. Her legacy will live on in the hearts of her loved ones and through the vibrant painted ceramics she leaves behind.

Funeral services will be on Monday September 2, 2024 at 1:00 PM at the Gilbert Funeral Home in Christopher with Brother Dean Hammonds officiating. Visitation will be on Monday from 11:00 AM until the time of the service at 1:00 PM at the funeral home. Burial will be at Mulkeytown Cemetery.

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

Mrs. Shirley Toms, age 87, of Benton, passed away from this life on earth into the arms of her Lord and Savior, at 5:44 a.m. Sunday, August 25, 2024, at the Shawnee Rose Care Center of Harrisburg, Illinois.

Shirley was born on March 8, 1937, in Benton, IL; the daughter of Mike Elieff and Florence (Price) Elieff. On December 1, 1956, she married Thomas Cannon, together they would share 40 years of marriage until his passing on September 12, 1997. A few years would pass by, and God put together a lonely widow and widower. On June 2, 2001, she would marry Mr. Lamont Toms, and they were married for almost 22 years, until Lamont was called home to be with his Lord and Savior, on March 2, 2023.

In her working career, she was a laborer with the Budd Company, an auto parts manufacturer in Michigan City, Indiana. Through her employment, she was a member of Teamsters Local 298 in Michigan City, Indiana.

Together with her late husband Lamont, they were faithful members of the West City Church of God. Someone shared that each, and every time they attended church, they entered the church holding hands. Shirley loved worshipping with her church family, and especially enjoyed Bible Study.

She also enjoyed her time spent with Lamont and Alyssa at McDonalds.

Shirley is survived by a daughter Rhonda Milcarek of Benton; a granddaughter Janelle Canon of Benton; three great-grandchildren: Alyssa Sailliez, Barry Oliver and Brandon Oliver, all three of Benton; a special nephew Charles Wiggs and wife Catherine of Benton.

Mrs. Tom’s was preceded in death by her parents, two husbands, and two sisters: Betty Jean Stevens, and Mildred Wiggs.

Graveside services will be held at 11:00 a.m. Thursday, August 29, 2024, at the Masonic & Odd Fellows Cemetery of Benton, with Rev. Harol Whitlock officiating. Friends and family are asked to go directly to the cemetery. The services are under the direction of the Leffler Funeral Home of Benton.

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

Robert Dale “Robbie” Smith, age 20, of West Frankfort, IL; passed away Sunday, August 25, 2024, at the Four Fountains Nursing Home, of Belleville, IL.

Robbie was born on December 8, 2003, in Marion, IL; the son of Michael Dewayne Smith and Patricia Joy (Malec) Smith.

He enjoyed watching St. Louis Cardinal baseball, playing video games with his sister Paisley, watching wrestling especially John Cena and Cody Rhodes. He also loved watching his favorite NFL team, the Tennessee Titans, and his favorite NBA team, the Los Angeles Lakers. His favorite player with the Lakers was Lebron James. Robbie also enjoyed listening to Country music and Christmas music.

Robbie is survived by his parents, Michael Dewayne Smith and Patricia Joy Smith of West Frankfort, IL, siblings: Paisley Kay Malec, Peyton Marie Malec, and Nick Dewayne Smith, all of West Frankfort, IL; maternal grandparents Rhonda Kay Dunford and husband Steve of Benton, IL; paternal grandmother Starla Smith of West Frankfort, IL; great-grandmother Joyce Duchene of Mulkeytown, IL; an aunt and uncle Sylvia and Nathan Malec of West Frankfort, IL, a cousin Ethan Malec, two uncles Raymond and David Baker of Marion, IL, and several other family members and his many friends at Four Fountains in Belleville, IL.
He was preceded in death by his grandma Wanda Baker, his grandpa Kevin Bush, and
an uncle Kirt Smith.

Funeral services to Celebrate the Life of Robbie Smith will be held at 1:00 p.m. Friday, August 30, 2024, at the Leffler Funeral Home of Benton, with Rev. Rick McClintock officiating, with burial to follow in the Masonic and Odd Fellows Cemetery of Benton. Visitation will be from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Friday at the Leffler Funeral Home of Benton.

The family prefers memorial contributions be made to the Leffler Funeral Home, 401 East Main Street, Benton, IL 62812, to assist with expenses.

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

Pastor Burton Byron Wills, 83, of Benton, passed away on Monday evening, August 26, 2024, at his home.
He was born on October 31, 1940, to Byron and Wilma (Burton) Wills in Benton, IL.

He married Roberta J. Summers on August 8, 1959 and they built a beautiful life together for 65 years.

Burton was a well-respected teacher and coach, eventually going into the real estate and appraisal business until his retirement. He was also the pastor of Grace Bible Church for 27 years.

He is survived by his loving wife, Roberta; 3 children: Julle (Ron) Whaley, Tim (Kelly) Wills, and Brad (Sandra) Wills, all of Benton. 6 grandchildren: Megan (Ian) Marlow of Benton; Molly (Mark) Uhles of Benton; Dr. Jordan Wills of Chesterfield, MO; Austin Wills of Nashville, TN; Mason Wills of Effingham, IL; and Mia Wills of Benton. 4 great-grandchildren: Brett Merkel, Lucas Marlow, Sophia Marlow, and Ellie Mae Uhles. And his loyal caregivers: Dawn Vandom and Whitney Whaley.
Burton was preceded in death by his parents, brother Tim Wills, and sister-in-law Joyce Wills.

Visitation will be held on Friday, August 30, 2024 beginning at 10:00am, followed by funeral service at 1:30pm at Grace Bible Church, 107 N Court St. in Benton. Burial will be at Shiloh Cemetery in Whittington, IL.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to St. Jude Children’s hospital.
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make straight your path.” Proverbs 3:5-6
For more information or to send online condolences please visit www.mortonjohnstonfuneralhome.com

Janie Rowland, 61, arrived at Marshall Browning Hospital in DuQuoin, the 5th of 7 children born to Albert and Marguerite (Bedar) Matyi on December 5, 1962 and left this world on August 24, 2024, with her husband and family members by her side. Janie attended Christopher Elementary School and graduated from Christopher High School in 1981. Janie was a Bearcat cheerleader through Jr. High and High School. She was also a Bearcat softball player under Coach Tom Wheeler. Janie was a lifelong Bearcat supporter and Chicago Cubs fan. She was a member of St Andrew Catholic Church in Christopher. Janie received Last Rites at Barnes Jewish Hospital in St Louis.

Janie continued her education at SIU for one year as she worked for the Womak Law Firm. She later worked as an Executive Secretary for Murphy Hart of Hart & Hart in Benton. She was then employed by Banterra Bank in West Frankfort where she met Steve Lindsey. In 1998, Steve Lindsey asked Janie to join him in a new venture, the Small Business Growth Corporation, and they worked together in the West Frankfort office for many years.

Janie and Randy Rowland shared a life of love for 39 years beginning in the summer of 1985. She and Randy were joined in holy matrimony at St Andrew Catholic Church on July 18, 1992.

Janie was preceded in death by her grandparents, John and Barbara Matyi and Henry and Carmen Bedar, her parents, Albert and Marguerite Matyi; one sister, Cheryl “Sis” Matyi House, and her in-laws, Roy and Betty Rowland. She is survived by her husband Randy Rowland; siblings Mike (Jenni) Matyi, Steve (Sara) Matyi, Mary Beth (Kevin) Davie, Francie (Rodney) Fourez and David Matyi; sister-in-law Barbara Minor,; brother-in-law Rick Rowland; nieces and nephews Lindsi (Josh) Downs, Katie (Eric) Peradotto, Tom (Erin) House, Joe House, Bill (Jacque) Matyi, Kevin Davie Jr., Nick (Molly) Davie, Meghan (Chad) Dirler, Rodney (Katie) Fourez, Jared Fourez and Mattie Noel, Loghan Matyi and Christian Lee, Ricky (Kim) Rowland, Kristin (Matt) Yosanovich, Jeff (Molly) Minor, and Cameron (Taylor) Yosanovich; great nieces and nephews Jackson and Addi Downs, Fisher and Lainey Perradota, Matyison and Mallory House, Londyn Jo and Saylor Rose Dirler, Jase and Owen Fourez, Athena Fourez and Janie’s namesake, Vayda Jane, Drake and Will Matyi, Max and Kiley Davie, Knox Davie, Briar Rowland, Sydney Yosanovich and Knox and Tate Minor and several cousins and many friends.

Funeral services will be on Saturday August 31, 2024 at 1:00 PM at the Gilbert Funeral Home in Christopher with Monsignor Tom Flach officiating. Visitation will be on Saturday from 10:00 AM until the time of the service at 1:00 PM at the funeral home. Burial will be at St Andrew Catholic Cemetery in Christopher. A dinner will be provided by the Knight of Columbus Altar Society following the burial at the Knights of Columbus in Christopher.

Janie loved flowers and her wish was to be surrounded by flowers at the Gilbert Funeral Home. Donations may also be made in her memory to the CAYA, an organization her father helped form, C/O CAYA President Tom House, 403 North Ward Street, Christopher, IL 62822 and envelopes will also be available at the funeral home.

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