BAILEY, JOHN L.
RALPH BAILEY'S FATHER DIED YESTERDAY MORNING
Ralph E. BAILEY was called to West Frankfort, Ill., Tuesday afternoon by the
critical illness of his father, John L. BAILEY, who passed away the next
morning after an illness of several months.
Mr. BAILEY, who was aged 93 years and 9 months, was a native of Franklin
county, Ill. He served for four years as a soldier in the Union Army, being
stationed at various points on the Mississippi River with General Grant and
later with General Sherman in Georgia.
Funeral services were held this afternoon at West Frankfort and interment
made in a cemetery at Benton, Ill. They were attended by Mr. and Mrs. R. E.
BAILEY and sons and Mr. and Mrs. Roger BAILEY and children of Sikeston.
Besides his son here, Mr. BAILEY is survived by his widow and two daughters,
Mrs. Oba LEACH and Miss Amy BAILEY of West Frankfort.
[The Sikeston Herald, Sikeston,  Missouri, Thursday, May 7, 1938, page 8]



BAILEY, LOU DEANE  
Benton 
Lou Deane Bailey, 77, of 108 W. Adams, died at 5:05 p..m. Saturday, Sept. 11,1999,
at the Memorial Hospital of Carbondale. Funeral services will be a 11 a.m. Tuesday 
at the Hobbs-Johnson Funeral Home, Benton, with the Rev. Clinton Woodfin officiating. 
Burial will be in the Masonic & Odd Fellows Cemetery, Benton. Visitation will be 
from 6 to 9 p.m. Monday at the funeral home. Mrs. Bailey was born Aug. 18, 1926 
in Logan, the daughter of Hiram Elmer and Cordie Ellen (Gill)Keaton. She married 
Charles W. Bailey and he died Nov. 19, 1972. She was a retired manager of various 
retail stores on the Benton Public Square including The Vogue, The Shoe Room, and 
Harris'. She was a past President of the Business and Professional Women's Organization, 
past Band Parent president, and was a Girl Scout leader for 18 years. She was a 
member of the Immanuel Baptist Church,Benton. Survivors include two sons, Rox W. 
Bailey, Charlotte, NC, Mike Bailey, East St. Louis; a daughter, Jane O'Tain, 
Evansville, Ind.; three grandchildren; three great-grandchildren, a brother, Charles 
E. Keaton, Benton; a sister, Mona Lee Bays, St. Louis, Mo. and several nieces and 
nephews. She was preceded in 
death by her parents, husband, a grandson, Aaron B. Bailey and a sister, Madge Jones.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Deaconess Hospital Cystic Fibrosis Clinic, 
Evansville, Ind.



BAIN, DANIEL EDGAR
D.E. BAIN DIES AT EWING
FRIDAY; FUNERAL SUNDAY
D. E. BAIN, 76, died yesterday afternoon at 4:30 at the home of his 
daughter, Mrs.C. J. KETTEMAN of Ewing, Ill. Besides his daughter, he is survived by 
three  sons, Ray of Mt. Vernon, Byford of Dallas, Texas and Arlie of Benton.  
Funeral services will be held Sunday at 2:00 p.m. at Webbs Prairie Free Will Baptist 
church, five miles southeast of Ewing. The body will remain at the family 
residence, five miles southeast of Ewing, where friends may call. 
[Register-News Mt Vernon IL, Sat 28 Aug 1954 issue pg 2]



BAIN, HARRY W.
Harry Bain, Valier, dies suddenly
8-16-75
Harry W. Bain, 64, Wilson Street, Valier, died suddenly Friday night at the Franklin Hospital in Benton. 
A retired welder and maintenance man at the Caterpillar Tractor Company in Peoria, he has been a resident 
of the area for only three months.  He was a member of the Second Baptist Church in Valier.  
Mr. Bain is survived by his wife, Reita Broughton Bain, one son, Harry O. Bain, Carson California, and two 
daughters, Mrs. Norma Daley, Livermore, California, and Mrs. Richard Christopher, Fort Collins, Colorado.  
Funeral services for Mr. Bain will be held Tuesday at 2 p.m. at the Mitchell-Morton and Johnston Funeral Home 
in Benton with Reverend Mac D. Vanway officicating.  Interment will follow at the Masonic and Odd Fellows Cemetery.  
The body will lie in state at the funeral home after 4 p.m. Monday.



BAIN, NELSON
Explosion Fatal to Dixon Soldier With Army Abroad
Sgt. Nelson H. Bain, 26, a resident of Dixon for many years, died in England Feb. 24 as a 
result of burns received from exploding gasoline, according to a telegram from the War 
department received here last night by his wife, Mildred, 908 Woodlawn avenue. Nelson, a 
veteran of almost three years of army service, was expecting to return to the United States 
in two weeks, stating in his last letter that he expected to sail from England March 18 for 
home. He had served in England for two years. The son of John S. Bain, of McLeansboro, Ill., 
Nelson lived here with his uncle, George E. Bain, 317 W. Chamberlain, for many years and 
attended school here. The text of the War department communication to Mrs. Bain follows:
"The secretary of War has asked me to express his deep regret that your husband Sgt. 
Nelson Bain died in England 24 February 46 as the result of burns from exploding gasoline. 
Confirming letter follows. Edward F. Witsell, Adjutant General of the Army". In addition 
to his wife and father, Bain is survived by three sisters, including Mrs. Wayne Mann, of 
321 East Chamberlin. [Dixon Evening Telegraph March 1, 1946]



BAIN, NELSON
The remains of Sgt. Nelson H. Bain (above) who died Feb. 24, 1946, in England from burns 
caused by a gasoline explosion, will arrive at Columbus, O., tomorrow, his wife, Mrs. 
Mildred Bain, 911 Lincoln avenue, has been informed. Sgt. Bain was born Sept. 2, 1919, 
at Macedonia, Ill., and came to Dixon in 1934 to make his home with an uncle, George Bain. 
He attended schools here and was married to Miss Mildred E. Fordham on July 16, 1939. He 
was employed at the Reynolds Wire Co. Entering service June 22, 1943, Sgt. Bain was sent 
overseas May 11, 1944, and stationed in England 21 months with the 713th Army Engineers 
Co. Survivors include his widow, father, John Bain, McLeansboro, Ill., three sisters, 
Mrs. Jennie Mezo, McLeansboro, Mrs. Julia Cook, Evanston, and Mrs. June Blackburn, Dixon; 
and a brother, James, Dixon. The body will be sent to McLeansboro for funeral services, 
to be announced later, will be conducted. [Dixon Evening Telegraph June 25, 1948]



BAIN, NELSON
SGT. NELSON BAIN
Military funeral services for Sgt. Nelson H. Bain were held Wednesday at 2 p.m. at Sanders 
funeral home, McLeansboro, and at the Liberty church. Burial was in the Liberty cemetery.
Sgt. Bain died in a hospital in England, where he was stationed, from burns caused by a 
gasoline explosion. Relatives attending the funeral from Dixon were: Mr. and Mrs. George 
Bain, Mr. and Mrs. Elmer Bain and Loretta, Mr. and Mrs. Donald Blackburn and son and James 
Bain. Others attending were: Mr. and Mrs. Jesse Fordham and Louise Fordham, Mrs. Grace Sitter, 
Mrs. Shirley Kirk and Mrs. Janet Wedekind, Charles Fordham, Jesse Fordham, Jr., Grand Detour; 
Leon Fordham, Amboy; Gifford Fordham, Sublette; Mr. and Mrs. Vernon Sutton and son, Bobby, 
Sublette. [Dixon Evening Telegraph July 19, 1948]



BAIN, ROBERT
Rites Today for Macedonia Man
Funeral services for Robert Bain, 47, who died at his home in Macedonia Sunday, were 
conducted from the Liberty church at 2 p.m. today with Revs. Cyrus Maulding and Kilgore 
officiating.  Interment was in Liberty cemetery with military rites being observed.
[Died:2 Apr 1939]



BAIN, ROYAL KEITH
Bain, Royal  Keith son of Mr and Mrs Royal Bain came into this world October 3, 
1938.  After staying here only two months and 22 days, he departed this life 
December 25, 1938, and was called up to Heaven to form a link in God's chain 
of tiny rosebuds.
From his resting place in the shelter of God's arms, Royal Keith looks down on 
his parents who are left behind. He also leaves four grandparents, Mr and Mrs W 
J Sink and Mr and Mrs Frank Richardson; also one great grandmother, Mrs Flora 
Bain; five uncles, six aunts, and numerous other relatives.
One brothe Kenneth Elton, preceded him in death one year ago, the fourth of 
January 1938.
" A mother's arms are empty,
Fond parents' joys are gone
And may God give us courage
To carry on alone." 
[Submitted by: Sheila Cadwalader]



BALDWIN, EDSEL W. 
EAST ALTON
Edsel W. BALDWIN, 80, died at 11 a.m. Saturday, May 24, 2003, at St.
Anthony's Hospital. Funeral services will be held at 10 a.m. Wednesday at
the Calvary Baptist Church in Alton, with Pastor Andre DOBSON officiating.
Visitation is from 5 until 8 p.m. Tuesday at Paynic Home for Funerals in
Rosewood Heights. Burial will be in Maple Hill Cemetery in Sesser, at 3:30
p.m. Memorials may be given to the church or the Gideons International.
Mr. BALDWIN was born on Dec. 10, 1922, in Franklin County to the late Leesie
and Golda L. (YUNG) BALDWIN. He was married on Dec. 9, 1943, in Sesser, to
the former Mary Frances THOMPSON. She survives. A sergeant in the U.S. Army,
he was a combat engineer during World War II. He was retired as a field
engineer for NCR Corporation. In addition to his wife Mary Frances, he is
survived by a daughter and son-in-law, Donna and Richard NELSON of Neoga;
two sons and daughters-in-law, Charles G. and wife Joyce BALDWIN of Mahomet
and Bradford and Cynthia BALDWIN of Bettendorf, Iowa; six grandchildren,
Adam C. BALDWIN, Michelle M. BUNYARD, Jeremy A. CHRISTOPHER A. and Nathan
A. NELSON, Mark B. BALDWIN; five great-grandchildren; one brother, Gordon L.
BALDWIN of Boerne, Texas.
[Benton Evening News, Benton, IL, Tues 27 May 2003 issue]



BANEY, GAILORD M. "JAKE"
WEST FRANKFORT - Gailord M. "Jake" Baney, 90, died at 9 a.m. Friday, May 16, 2008. 
Services will be at 1 p.m. Monday in Varis-Stone Funeral Home, with the Rev. Bernadine 
Caldwell-Webb and Pastor Tim Gossett officiating. Burial will be in Denning Cemetery. 
Visitation will be from 5 to 8 p.m. Sunday and from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Monday at the 
funeral home. 
Memorials may be made to Hospice of Southern Illinois. 
[Southern Illinoisian, Saturday May 15-2008]



BANEY, MELVIN E.  
West Frankfort 
Melvin E. Baney, 86, of 302 Illinois Ave., died at 6:35 p.m. , Tuesday, Aug. 10,
1999, in his home. Services will be held at 11 a.m. Friday, Aug. 13 in the Parker-
Reedy Funeral Home, West Frankfort, with the Rev. Becky Brault officiating. Burial 
will be in Lakeview Cemetery in Johnston City. Friends may call from 5 to 8 p.m.
Thursday to the funeral home. Mr. Baney was born on Sept. 8, 1912, in Mt. Vernon, 
the son of Gail Ruby (McMeens)Baney. He was married to Frances (Steh) Baney on 
July 22, 1933 in West Frankfort. She survives. He was a retired painter and a 
member of the Harmony International Brothers of Painters and Allied Trades Union 
Local #32. He was very active in Democrat politics and had served as a precinct 
committeman, Denning Township trustee and clerk, Franklin County Board of Trustees 
and president of the Joiner School Baord of Education. He was an active member 
of the First United Methodist Church where he served on the administration board 
and was president of the Harmony Sunday School Class. In addition to his wife, 
he is survived by one daughter, Donna Sue Bozarth and husband Joe of West Frankfort; 
three grandchildren, Cynthia Crabtree and husband Jerry of West Frankfort; Georgia 
Moore of West Frankfort; Doug Moore and wife Becky of West Frankfort; four great-
grandchildren, Cara Broy, Alyssa, Nathan and Ashlee Moore, all of West Frankfort; 
one brother Gailord Baney and wife Geneva of Sesser; three sisters, Ruth Funcannon 
of Benton, Eleanor Ferguson of West Frankfort, Gretta Sanders of California; several 
nieces and nephews. Friends who wish may make memorials to Hospice of Southern Illinois 
or to the First United Methodist Church and will be accepted at the funeral home. 



BARNEY, RAPHAEL  DIES
Services Set Tuesday At Herrin 
Raphael BARNEY, 68, of Rt. 1, Herrin, died at 5:30 a.m.
Saturday in Herrin Hospital. He had been ill several years.
He was born Dec.28, 1894, at Murphysboro, the son of Pete
and Lizzie DALE BARNEY. He married Wilma MURRAY at Herrin,
May 5, 1917. She died Oct. 24, 1918. He married Ruth HAYS,
Nov. 21, 1940 at Cape Girardeau, Mo.
Mr. BARNEY was a, former miner and was last employed as a
maintenance  man at Norge. He was a member of the Herrin
Elks Lodge and the Rome Club.
He leaves his wife, Ruth; son, John Robert of Fort
Lauderdale, Fla.; sisters, Mrs. John GREEN of Herrin and.
Ruth BARNEY of Chicago; brothers. Wilbert of Hurst and
Raymond of Jacksonville, Fla.; and one granddaughter.
Funeral services will be at 1:30 p.m. Tuesday  at Johnson's
Funeral Home, Herrin. Rev. Ben R. STRIPLING will officiate.;
Burial will be in Herrin City Cemetery. Friends may call
after 4 p.m. today at the funeral home.
The Southern Illinoisan, Carbondale, Illinois, Sunday, June
9, 1963, page 24



BARNFIELD, CHARLES LINDY 
BENTON
Charles Lindy BARNFIELD, 70, died at the Westside Care Center, West
Frankfort at 2:50 p.m. Monday, Aug. 28, 2000. Services will be held at 1
p.m. Thursday, Aug. 31, in the Gilbert Funeral Home, Christopher, with
Brother Phillip ENGLE officiating. Burial will be in the Liberty Baptist
Cemetery. Friends may call after 7 p.m. Wednesday to the funeral home. Mr.
BARNFIELD was born in Burlington, on Jan. 12, 1930, the son of Claude and
Fern (ODLE) BARNFIELD. He was a retired insurance salesman and a member of
the First Baptist Church in Benton. Survivors include his mother Fern
BARNFIELD of Christopher; three sons, Alan and wife Vickie BARNFIELD of
Buckner; Robert BARNFIELD of Chicago, Tim BARNFIELD of St. Charles; three
grandchilden, Stephannie LOVAN, Timothy BARNFIELD, Alyssa BARNFIELD; one
step-great-grandchild, Lindsey LOVAN; two sisters, Dolores MILLER of
Christopher, Debra FARMER, O'Fallon; one brother, Larry BARNFIELD of
Charleston, South Carolina. Memorials may be made to Hospice or Liberty
Baptist Cemetery Fund and will be accepted at the funeral home.
(NOTE: Two daughters listed, Crystal & Carla may be his stepdaughters. jm)
[Benton Evening News, Benton, IL, Wed. 30 Aug 2000 issue, pg 5]  
  


BARNFIELD, JOHN
JOHN BARNFIELD was born March 8, 1811, in Wilson County, Tenn., and received 
a hope at the age of 22, joined the Primitive Baptist at Cedar Creek and was 
baptized by Elder John Borum. Brother Barnfield moved to Illinois, Hamilton 
County, joined the Primitive Baptist at Ruff meeting house and remained a member 
of that Church twenty years; then move back to Wilson County, Tenn., in 1855, 
and to Macon County, Tenn., and united with Testament  Church. He was licensed 
by Testament Church about the year 1859 to exercise his gift in a public way; 
and again moved to Wilson County and united with Cedar Creek about the year 
1873. He then moved to Sumner County, Tenn., united with East Station Camp 
church, then moved back to Wilson County, Tenn., and united with Round Lick 
Church, where he remained in fellowship to his death. He moved to Macon County, 
Tenn., but did not move his
membership. He died in Macon County July 18, 1887, at his son's, Elder John A. 
Barnfield, at the age of 76 years. Brother Barnfield was naturally blind eight 
years. He married twice, and leaves five children of his first wife, and leaves 
his second wife a widow, but no children by her. He was sick twenty-one days, 
and bore his affliction with great patience, and was
rational till the last, and talked about his glorious and bright prospect of 
meeting his Saviour in that eternal home. He went in peace. Though naturally 
blind, his hope, his spiritual sight, and his salvation was clear to him and 
not a cloud to dim his view.  He had overcome all enemies through Jesus. Dear 
old brother, sleep till Jesus calls for you; then you shall come forth all 
glorious; then all that heaven is and heaven means is yours. Dear children, 
weep not, your father is done suffering; look to Jesus and pray to him for 
preparation to meet him in heaven. I wish to drop a word to his bereaved widow. 
You must soon follow your departed husband; you are growing old and you can't 
stay long on earth; you have seen the sun often rise in the east and set in the 
west, and how is it with you about the Son of righteousness?
Has that light shined in your heart and given you the light of the knowledge of 
the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ? If so show your faith by your works. 
May God bless the bereaved family. Farewell. MILES F. WEST
[THE GOSPEL MESSENGER, Butler, Ga., October, 1887 Vol. 9 No. 10]
Submitted by: Sheila Cadwalader



BARR, William W. "Bill"
West City
William W. "Bill" BARR, 81, of Benton died at 2:40 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 16,
2004, at his home. Funeral services will be held at 10 a.m. Tuesday, Oct.
19, at the Hobbs-Johnson Funeral Home, Benton, with Rev. Cecil SULLIVAN
officiating. Burial with military rites will be in the Brady Cemetery, Akin.
Visitation will be from 6 to 9 p.m. Monday at the funeral home. Mr. BARR was
born Oct. 22, 1923, near Akin, the son of James Wesley BARR and Blanche
(HOBBS) BARR. He married the former Loretta Bernice SULLIVAN in 1942 and she
survives.
He was a retired farmer and coal miner and was a U.S. Air Force veteran of
World War II. He was a member of First Baptist Church in Benton, Benton
American Legion, V.F.W., and Benton Elks Club. He believed in perseverance
and hard work. He was a man of character who loved his family. He is
survived by his wife, Loretta BARR, West City; one son, Dr. William Michael
BARR and wife Tami, Clarksdale, Miss.; three grandchildren, William Michael
James BARR, Clarksdale, Miss., Meri ELIZABETH BARR, Gulfport, Miss., and
Tyler Sullivan BARR, Clarksdale, Miss.; two brothers, Dwight and wife Maxine
BARR, Carbondale, and Bobby and wife Esther BARR, Texarkana, Texas; a
sister-in-law, Lorene BARR, Benton, and several nieces, nephews and cousins.
Mr. BARR was preceded in death by his parents and one brother, Everett Edgar
BARR. Memorial contributions may be made to the Brady Cemetery Fund will be
accepted at the funeral home.
Benton Evening News, Benton IL, Mon 18 Oct 2004 issue



BARTON, ALLIE M.
BARTON, Allie M., 81, 577 Spanish Drive North, Longbost Key, Florida,
died Tuesday April 7, 1987. Born in Macedonia, she was a resident of
Sarasota since 1968, coming from Aurora. She was a registered nurse
with Dixon State Hospital in Dixon before retiring. She was a member of
Longboat Key Island Chapel and a member of the Daughters of the American
Revolution. Mrs. Barton is survived by one son, James D. Barton, Jr.,
Newfane, Vermont; a brother, Inman Harrelson, a sister, both of Ann; and
two grandchildren. Visitation was held at Roale Brothers Trust, with
private burial.
[Book: History of Macedonia Franklin County Illinois
written by the 8th grade (1991) class of Ewing-Northern School]



BAYS, MARINDA JANE
Monday, 13 Apr 1936
Funeral Services were held Sunday for Mrs Marinda Jane Bays of Whittington, Illinois, who
died Saturday morning, April 11, 1936. She was born 13 September 1847 in Johnson County,
Illinois. In 1865 she wed Joseph Burgess and to this union one son, William H Burgess, was
born. On 10 November 1872 she married Lafayette Butler Bays. There was born to this
union eight children: Elmer, James L, Louzetta (Phillips), Martha (Monday), Mary (Welch),
Winifred I (Casey), and an unnamed infant. Elmer, Winifred and the infant preceded her in
death. Aunt Marinda received the most enjoyment from life piecing quilts. She leaves
three daughters: Mrs. Frank Munday, Mrs. George Phillips, and Mrs. Robert Welsh; three
sons: James, Albert, and William Burgess Bays; and one sister, Mrs. W W Whittington.
Burial was at the Webb’s Hill Cemetery where she rests beside her husband, Lafayette
Bays, to await the judgement day.



BEADLE, GEORGE
Man Leaves 106 Descendants
George Beadle, 90, of 507 N. Gardner St., West Frankfort, who died at 6:45 a.m. 
today in Union Hospital leaves 106 descendants.  He was born in 1881 in County 
Durham, England. He came to the United States in 1901 and lived in West Frankfort 
for 40 years, moving from Denver, Colo. He lived at the home of a daughter, Mrs, 
Connie Carroll.  Mr. Beadle last worked as a miner in the thirties. He was a member 
of the Knights of Pythias Lodge. His wife died in 1956.  He leaves sons, George 
Haskell of West Frankfort, Frank Toca of Calumet City, and Clifton Toca of Burbank, 
Calif., daughters, Mrs. Carroll, Mrs. Pearl Braden of Chicago, Mrs. Ruby Burning 
of Los Angeles, and Mrs. Rose Kushner of Reseda, Calif.; thirty-two grandchildren, 
60, great grandchildren, and seven great great-grandchildren.
Funeral arrangements are incomplete at the Walker Funeral Home, West Frankfort, 
where friends may call after 7 p. m. Thursday.
SOUTHERN ILLINOISAN, WEDNESDAY, JUNE 27, 1962

Beadle Services Set Funeral services for George Beadle, 90, of 507 Gardner St., West 
Frankfort, will be at 10 a.m. Saturday at the Walker Funeral Home, West Frankfort. 
The Rev. Tom Pickens will officiate.  Burial will be in the International Order of 
Odd Fellows Cemetery in Benton. Friends may call after 7 p.m. today at the Walker 
Funeral Home.  Mr. Beadle died Wednesday in Union Hospital, West Frankfort, leaving 
106 descendants.
SOUTHERN ILLINOISAN, FRIDAY, JUNE 29, 1962



BEAN, MONA M  
Mona M. Bean, 97, a former Benton resident, died Wednesday morning Aug. 25, 1999
at the Northgate Nursing Home in Florissant, Mo. Services will be held at noon on
Friday, Aug. 27, in the Morton & Johnston Funeral Home in Benton, with Pastor Phillip 
Ingle officiating. Burial will be in the Masonic & Odd Fellows Cemetery. Friends 
may call after 10 a.m. on Friday until time of service to the funeral home. Mrs. 
Bean was born in Jefferson County on Dec. 16, 1901, the daughter of Noah Calvin 
and Stella (Lisenby) Humphrey. On April 3, 1921, she married Walter Leonard Bean. 
He died Oct. 30, 1983. Survivors include one daughter, Jackie Hayes of Florissant, 
Mo.; two grandsons, Bret Hayes and wife Sonya of Florissant, Mo.; four great-
grandchildren; one sister, Vermadel Travis of Peoria, Ariz.; several nieces and 
nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, one sister, Leota Mick, 
and son-in-law, Bob Hayes. For those who wish Memorials may be made to the First 
Baptist Church of Benton and will be accepted at the funeral home. 



BEATY, ALICE 
EWING
Alice BEATY, 63, of Route 1, Ewing, died 11:05 a.m. Sept. 10, 1992. Born
Dec. 20, 1928, in Ewing, she was a daughter of Cyrus and Stella (DOLLINS)
WEBB. She married Erman H. BEATY Dec. 29, 1953; he died June 27, 1987. Mrs.
BEATY was a member of Primitive Baptist Church of Benton. Friends may call 6
to 8 p.m. Sunday at Johnston Funeral Home of Whittington. Services will be
10 a.m. Monday at the funeral home with the Rev. Mark MINOR officiating.
Burial will be in Middle Fork Cemetery in Ewing.
Survivors include children, Nancy BEATY of Ewing, Erman W. BEATY and wife
Sandy, of Bonnie, and Margaret SHAW of Ina; five grandchildren; two
brothers, Cy WEBB and Ed WEBB, both of Ewing; two sisters, Virginia FAXON of
Denver, Colo.; and Jean BEATTY(sic) of Hingham, Mass. She was preceded in
death by her parents, husband, one granddaughter and one brother.



BEATY, DRAB   
DRAB BEATY DIES MONDAY MORNING, FUNERAL WEDNESDAY
Drab Beaty, 68, of Whittington died Monday morning at Jefferson Memorial Hospital 
in Mt. Vernon.
Funeral services were held Wednesday at 2 p.m. at the Johnston Funeral Home in 
Whittington with the Rev. Earl Myers and the Rev. Harold Conroyd officiating.  
Burial was in Shiloh Cemetery near Whittington.
Mrs. Beaty was born Dec. 22, 1896, in Franklin County, the daughter of Stephan and 
Rebecca (Reese) Harris.
She was married to H. H. Beaty, who survives. Other survivors include three daughters, 
Helen  Wyatt of Whittington, Freda Songer of Chicago Heights, and Mildred Morgan of 
Evansville, Ind.; three sisters, Hattie Fry of Rockord, Jessie Atwell of Ewing and 
Evelyn Combs of McLeansboro; and two grandchildren.  She was preceded in death by one son.
She was a member of the Ewing Methodist Church.
Benton Evening News   Dec. 1965



BEATY, EVERETT
TUESDAY SERVICES FOR BENTON MAN
Funeral services for Everett BEATY, 65, of rural Benton will
be at 2 p.m. Tuesday at the Hobbs-Johnson Funeral Home,
Benton.
The Rev. Earl W. DICKEY will officiate. Burial will be in
the Masonic and Odd Fellows Cemetery, Benton. Friends may
call at the funeral home after 3 p.m. today.
Mr. BEATY died at 7 a.m. Sunday at home after an illness of
several years.
He was born March 7, 1906,in Franklin County, the son of
Carrol and Effie BRITTON BEATY.
He was a retired coal miner and last worked for the Freeman
Coal Co. He was a member of the United Mine Workers of
America.
A sister and two brothers preceded him in death.
Mr. BEATY is survived by his wife Wilma; a son, Bill of
Charleston, W. Va.; four brothers, Charlie, Ollie and
Claude, all of Benton, and Earl of McLeansboro; five
sisters, Mrs. Allie HOBBS, Mrs. Julia ODOM, Mrs. Martha
RICHARDSON and Mrs. Nora LEMONS, all of Benton, and Mrs.
Addie BAUER of Thompsonville, and a grandson.
The Southern Illinoisan, Carbondale, Illinois, Monday, 22
Nov 1971, page 11




BEATY, HARLEY
HARLEY BEATY,  Ewing, Dies today; Wednesday, July 14, 1971 Benton Evening News
Harley H. Beaty, 75, died early today at his home in Ewing.
A lifelong resident of  Franklin County, Mr. Beaty was a retired farmer.
He is survived by his second wife, Jessie David Beaty; three daughters, Mrs. Helen 
Wyatt, Ewing; Mrs. Freda Songer, Chicago Heights and Mrs. Mildren Morgan, Evansville, 
Ind.; a stepson, John Lewis, Commerce, Texas; three grandchildren; a sister, Mrs. 
Clara Midyett, McLeansboro, and several nieces and nephews.
His first wife was the late Drab Harris Beaty.
Funeral services will be held Saturday at 2 p.m. at the Johnston Funeral Home in 
Whittington. Interment will be in Shiloh Cemetery. The body will lie in state at 
the funeral home after 4 p.m. Thursday.



BEATY, WILMA IRENE
BENTON - Wilma Irene Beaty, 97, of Benton, died at 5:20 p.m. Friday, May 5, 
2006 at Severin Intermediate Care Home in Benton.Services will be held at 
10:30 a.m. Monday in Hobbs-Johnson Funeral Home, Benton, with the 
Rev. Dr. David G. Hultberg officiating. Visitation will be from 5 to 8 p.m.
Sunday, May 7, 2006, at the funeral home. Burial will be in Masonic and
Oddfellows Cemetery, in Benton.Mrs. Beaty was born March 4, 1909 in Macedonia,
the daughter of Logan Carlton and Naomi (Boster) Carlton. She married Everett
Beaty on Dec. 24, 1926, and he preceded her in death on Nov. 21, 1971.She was
a housewife and a member of the Corinth Methodist Church, Macedonia. She 
attended the First United Methodist Church in Benton.Surviving relatives 
include one son, Bill G. Beaty and wife Gerry, Flowery Branch, Ga.; one
grandson, Mark Beaty, Braselton, Ga.; four great-grandsons, Steven and Jeremy
Beaty, both of Sioux Falls, SD, Justin Beaty, Flowery Branch, Ga., Jordan Beaty,
Braselton, Ga.; a great-great-grandson, Trent Beaty, Flowery Branch, Ga.; and 
several nieces and nephews.Mrs. Beaty was preceded in death by her parents; 
three brothers, Harrison, Hershel, and Russel Carlton.[Southern Illinoisian 
Newspaper May 6 2006]



BELL, SARAH EVALINE
Mrs. Sarah Evaline Bell died at her home, 805 North Monroe Street in Johnston 
City, at 8 pm Wednesday.  She would have been 94 years of age onNov 24.  Mrs. Bell,
who had been bedfast for the past six years, was the widow of James Bell, Johnston
City carpenter, who died one year ago.  They had resided in that city for 50 years.
Mrs. Bell was a native of Ewing.  She is survived by a daughter, Mrs.Tressa Clark,
teacher at Washington grade school in Johnston City, who made her home with her 
mother and a son Enoch Bell of Benton. Six grandchildren and seven great-
grandchildren also survive. The body is lying in state at the family home, where
funeral services will be held at 2 pm on Saturday.  Burial will be in Rose Hill 
cemetery at Marion.  The family has asked that no flowers be sent. [Oct 14, 1953.
The Daily American, West. Frankfort Illinois]



BENNETT, GORDAN
Gordon Bennett died of gunshot, shot four times by Clarence Smothers and
Roy McClintock. Born in Crawfords Prairie on the home farm. 30 years, 2
mos. and 24 days, son of George and Francis Bennett. Brothers; Commadore,
rayburn, jewell, Ranson and sisters; Aileen and Imogene. May 5, 1918, he
marrried Jewell Secrest of Mt. Vernon, who died June 2, 1999, Soldier Co.
F. 5th Replacement Camp, Il. Burial IOOF.
Benton Newspaper June 15, 1922
--------
BENNETT, GORDAN
GODRON BENNETT DIES OF GUN WOUNDS
Shot Four Times Early Sunday by Clarence Smothers and Roy McClintock
Smothers Now in Benton Jail
Officers Fail to Locate McCLintock Who Dissappeared
Immediately Following Shooting
Gordon Bennett died at 3:48 this morning at the hospital as
a result of four gunshot wounds he received early Sunday
morning at the hands of Clarence Smothers and Roy McClintock.
He lingered so long and was seemingly improving so much,
his relatives and friends had built up hopes for his
recovery.
Smothers, who shot him in the back, and who is possibly the
one most responsible for his death, was brought up from
West Frankfort at noon today and placed in jail.  He is
suffering from a wound from a shot from Bennett's gun and
several broken ribs received when his car turned over near
No 18 mine when he was trying to make his escape.
Roy McClintock who also shot Bennett made good his escape
the night of the affair and has not yet been apprehended.
Gordon Bennett was born on the Bennett farm in Crawford's
Prairie, March 16, 1892 his age, therefore, being thirty
years, two months and twenty-four days.  His parents are
George W and Frances Bennett both surviving.  He is also
survived by four brothers and two sisters, namely,
Commadore, Raybern, Jewell, Ransom, Aileen and Imogene.
Early in life he engaged in teaching then he became
restless and decided to see the world with as a result that
when he returned with first-hand information _______ (page
torn).
On May 20, 1918 he was wedded to Miss Jewell Secrest of Mt
Vernon who passed away June 2, the following year.
Nine days after his marriage, May 29, 1919, he entrained
with a contingent of soldiers for Atlanta Ga, being placed
in charge of the train when it left Benton.  He was
attached to Co F, 5th replacement and at Camp Grant, Ill.
Funeral services will probably take place at the Bennett
home at the corner of Washington and Commerical streets
Saturday afternoon, Rev John A McClintock officiating,
deceased often expressing the desire that when he died he
wanted Rev McClintock to preach his funeral inasmuch as he
was the one who married him.
Interment will take place at the Masonic and Odd Fellows
cemetery.
(Benton newspaper--no date)[Submitted by: Sheila Cadwalader]



BEST, BERTHA PEARL
BERTHA BEST RITES TODAY
Mrs. Bertha Pearl BEST, 85,of Edwardsville, formerly of
Christopher, died at 12:05 a.m. Friday 5 in the Madison
County Nursing Home, Edwardsville, after a lengthy illness.
Born April 25, 1885, in Franklin County, she was the
daughter of Milton and Margaret REA WILLIAMS. She was a
member of the First Baptist Church, Christopher.
Mrs. BEST's husband, Leonard, died in 1949. Two sons, a
daughter, four brothers and two sisters also preceded her in
death.
She is survived by daughters, Mrs. Florence WILSON of West
Allis, Wis., and Mrs. Marcella ROBERTS of Sitka, Alaska;
sons, Milton of West Allis, Wis., John of Two Rivers, Wis.,
and Bob of Edwardsville; 12 grandchildren; 11
great-grandchildren; and brothers, Bob WILLIAMS of Chicago
and John of Houston, Tex.
Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. today at the Russell
Funeral Home, Christopher with the Rev. W. D. BERRY
officiating. Burial will be in Harrison Cemetery,
Christopher. Friends may call at the. Funeral home.
The Southern Illinoisan, Carbondale, Ill, Sun,Nov 15, 1970



BEETES, SARAH S DILLON
Sarah S. Dillon was born July 10, 1841, was married to William Bettes, January 
3rd, 1854, to Wilson Dillon December 18, 1862 and to Isaac Manis, December 1, 
1900.  Died April 20, 1907, aged 66 years, 9 months and 10 days. She joined the 
Salem Regular Baptist church at Benton, Illinois, about 26 years ago, and remains 
a fatithful member until her death, always glad to be able to meet with those 
she loved at church.  She was truly a good wife, mother and neighbor.  A 
Christian lady has fallen in Israel.  Our loss is her eternal gain.
Aunt Sally sleeps that peaceful sleep that knows no waking until the resurrection
morning, when we hope to meet her at the throne of God.  May their children be 
blessed with that sweet hope, that they too may meet them in the sweet by and 
by.  Both were taken sick on the morning of April 11, at the same hour, and 
after nine days of intense suffering they passed away within the same hour.
For convenience heir funeral was held at the Ewing Missionary Baptist church 
and was preached by Eld. W. C. Arnol of the Regular Baptist church of Crossville, 
Ill, to a crowded house. Their friends are numbered by their acquaintances.
Truly two veterans have fallen asleep in Israel.  Each of the deceased have a 
large family of children, grand and great grand children, who all join in 
extending their sincere and heart felt thanks to the neighbors and friends 
for their timely and aid and sympathy in this hour of bereavement.
Submitted by: Sheila Cadwalader



BIGGS, MARION
MARION BIGGS RITES IN MARION WEDNESDAY
Services for Marion H. Biggs,  81, of Rt. 3, Marion, will be at 10 a.m. Wednesday 
in the Wilson Funeral Home of Marion.  The Rev. George Ashley of Mulkeytown Baptist 
Church will officiate. Burial will be in Maplewood Cemetery. Friends may call at the 
funeral home after 5 p.m. today.  Mr. Biggs died at 11:45 a.m. Sunday in the Loretta 
Nursing Home of Shawneetown. He was a retired plasterer.  He was born in Du Quoin 
April 7, 1887, a son of the late Marion and Matilda Lewis Biggs. He married Lula 
Gore Mangrum in Marion in 1951.  She died Aug. 24. A brother, Thomas, died in 1365 
and a sister, Bessie Bantel died in 1957.  Mr. Biggs leaves daughters, Juanita and 
Lucille Biggs; and half-brothers, Clyde and Eugene of Mulkeytown and Ernest, Luther 
and Rolla of Granite City.  Southern Illinoisan, TUESDAY, OCTOBER 29,1968  Note the 
obit stated She instead of he.




BISHOP, ALONZO S.
ALONZO S. BISHOP
Sesser
Alonzo S. Bishop, 81, of Route #1, Sesser, died on Wednesday, Sept.16,
1992 at 12:47 p.m. in Carbondale Memorial Hospital.
Funeral Services will be held on Saturday at 1:30 p.m. in the Brayfield 
Funeral Home, Sesser, with the Rev. Mac D. Vanwey officiating. Burial
will be in Maple Hill Cemetery. Friends may call from 6 to 9 p.m. A
Masonic service will be held at 7 p.m. in the Funeral Home.
Mr. Bishop was born on Auug. 6, 1911 in Franklin County, the son of 
Charles and Lulu (Cross) Bishop. He was married to Elva (Walker) Bishop
on Dec. 29, 1931 in Franklin Co. She survives.
He was a retired security guard for Flintkote Co. in Chicago and had
also worked as a coal miner for about ten years.
He was of the Baptist faith and a member of the Sesser Masonic Lodge.
He had served on the Sesser City Council and as a volunteer fireman.
In addition to his wife, he is survived ny three daughters, Betty
Gilliam of Sesser; June Curtis and husband Ed of Winona, Minn., Barbara 
Cote and husband Jack of Peotone; one sister, Clarabelle Brown of
Sesser; ne brother Arthur Lee Bishop of O'Fallon, Mo., eight grandchildren;
twelve great-grandchildren; several neices and nephews.
Mr. Bishop was preceded in death by his parents, three sisters and two 
brothers.



BISHOP, ARTHUR SR.
Arthur Bishop Sr.
Arthur Bishop sr., 76, of O'Fallon, died Saturday ( Oct.9, 1999) at
St. Joesph Hospital West in Lake Saint Loius.
Mr. Bishop was a maintenance repairman for Abex Corp. in St.
Louis, where he had worked for 37 years. He served in the U.S. Army.
He was a member of VFW Post 5077, Disabled American Veterans
and was a veteran of the Battle of the Buldge.
Visitation will be from 3:330 to 9 p.m. todat at Baue Funeral Home,
311 Wood Street, O'Fallon. A funeral service will be held at 2:30 p.m.
Wednesday at the baue Chapel. Burial will ne at the St.Charles Memorial 
Gardens, 3950 West Clay Street, St. Charles.
Among survivors are his wife, Rita M. Bishop of O'Fallon; four sons
Arthur "Corky" Bishop of St.Charles, Stephen James Bishop of
O'Fallon, Ronald L. Bishop and Jerry Ray Bishop, both residences
unknown; a sister Clarabelle Brown of Sesser, Ill.; 10 grandchildren
and five great-grandchildren.
Memorial contributions can be made to American Lung Asso-
ciation in care of Baue Funeral Home, 311 Wood Street,
O'Fallon, Mo. 63366



BISHOP, ELVA BLANCHE  Sesser 
Elva Blanche Bishop, 89, of 508 W. Matthew, died at 10 a.m. Thursday, Nov. 18, 1999 
in the St.. Mary's Good Samaritan Health Care Center, Mt. Vernon. Services will be 
held Sunday, Nov. 21, at 1 p.m. in the Brayfield-Gilbert Funeral Home, Sesser. Burial 
will be in Maple Hill Cemetery. Friends may call after 6 p.m. Saturday at the funeral 
home. Mrs. Bishop was born on Feb. 15, 1910 in Franklin County, the daughter of Austin 
and Safrona (Kelly) Walker. She was married to Alonzo Bishop who preceded her in death 
on Sept. 16, 1992. She was of the Baptist faith and a homemaker. Survivors include three 
daughters, Betty and Bill Wilson of Sesser, Jane and Ed Curtis of Wynona, Minnesota, 
Barbara and Jack Cote, Brook, Ind.; 8 grandchildren; 19 great-grandchildren; a sister, 
Thelma Jones of Sesser.



BISHOP, MARY VIERJEAN
died Tuesday, July 29, 2008 at her home, after a prolonged illness.
Graveside services will be in M & OF Cemetery in Benton at a later date
Morton-Johnston Funeral Home in charge of arrangements.
SOUTHERN ILLINOISIAN PAPER   30 Jul 2008



BLAIR, EARNEST L."ERNIE"  
Benton 
Ernest L."Ernie" Blair, 54, died at 1:45 p.m. on Tuesday, June 29, 1999, in the Marshall 
Browning Hospital, Du Quoin. Services will be held Friday, July 2, at noon in the Poulson 
Funeral Home with the Rev. Rod Joplin officiating. Burial will be in the Masonic & Odd 
Fellows Cemetery. Friends may call from 10 a.m. until time of service on Friday to the 
funeral home. Mr. Blair was born on April 29, 1945, in Benton, the son of James and
Eleanor (Chaffin) Blair. He was married to Virginia "Ginger" (Langston) Blair. She survives. 
He was a retired concrete contractor and a member of the Church of God, Benton. He loved 
his yard and garden. In addition to his wife, he is survived by one son, Shannon Blair of 
Benton; stepson Greg Bradford and wife Nancy, Olive Branch, Mississippi; stepdaughters, 
Angel Henry and husband, Danny of Memphis, Tenn., Roxane Finch, South Haven, Miss.; two
grandchildren, Craigory and Darrean; seven stepgrandchildren; two brothers, Clifford and 
wife Carol Blair of Benton, Mark and wife Rebecca Blair of Springfield; two sisters, Elsie 
and husband Jackson Cantrell of Benton, Nancy and husband Emil"Bud" Vandom of Benton. His 
parents, three brothers, James Jr., Gary Lynn, William Edmon Blair and two sisters, Edna 
Mae Thompson and Linda Wyant preceded him in death.



BOBRICK, JOE 
JOE BOBRICK DIES Funeral services for Joe Bobrick, 75, 803 E. 9th St., West Frankfort, 
will be at 10 a. m.  Saturday at Union Funeral Home, where friends may call after 7 p.m. 
Today.  The Rev. Michael Klimas, pastor of St. John's Catholic Church, will officiate.  
Burial will be in Lithuanian Cemetery.  A Rosary will be recited at 7 p. m. Friday at 
the funeral home.   Mr. Bobrick died at 1 a. m. Wednesday, in Union Hospital, after a 
three - week illness.  He was born in Lithuania and came to West Frankfort 40 years ago 
from Boston, Mass.  A retired miner, he last worked at Orient 1.  He belonged to the 
Lithuanian Lodge and the Lithuanian Citizens Club.  He leaves daughters Mrs. Ivan Beers 
of Chicago and Mrs. Kenneth Heath of Good Hope.
The Southern Illinoisan Thursday, March 10, 1960 
Submitted by Pat Hardenstine



BOLEN, FLORINE (DARNELL)
Florine (DARNELL) BOLEN, 91, of Morris, a former Franklin county
resident, died at 11:45 a.m. Sunday, Sept. 24, 2000, at the Morris
Nursing Home.
Services will be held at 10 a.m. Wednesday, September 27, in the
Hobbs-Johnson Funeral Home with the Rev. Ron GRIFFIN officiating. Burial
will be in the Brady Cemetery, Akin. Visitation will be from 5 to 8 p.m.
Tuesday at the funeral home.
Mrs. BOLEN was born Dec. 13, 1908 in Eastern Township, the daughter
of Frank and Laura (McCLUSKY) DARNELL. She married Claude BOLEN on April
4, 1931 and he preceded her in death on Jan. 14, 1993.
She was a retirred seamstress from the West Frankfort Sewing Factory,
and was a member of the International Ladies Garment Workers Union, and
a member of the Akin Church of Christ.
Survivors include a daughter, Barbara and husband Russell CARTER, two
grandsons, Kerry Dean CARTER and wife Donna, Scott Allen CARTER; twin
great-grandsons Kameron and Keenan CARTER; all of Mazon, a brother Ivan
DARNELL, Akin; and several nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, and a sister,
Crystal MILLER.
Benton Evening News, Benton, IL, Tues, 26 Sept 2000



BOND, DALE EDWARD  
Marion 
Dale Edward Bond, 71, died at 9:20 p.m. Sunday, June 27, 1999 at the V.A. Medical Center, 
Marion. Memorial services will be held at 11 a.m. Wednesday, June 30, at the Third Baptist 
Church Marion, with Dr. Jerry Ford officiating. Visitation will be from 5 to 7 p.m. 
Tuesday, at the Meredith-Blue Funeral Home, Marion. Mr. Bond was born on June 29, 1927, 
in Saline county, the son of Wilbern and Grace (Edwards) Bond. He married Bonita 
Sue Edwards on March 29, 1947 in Marion and she survives. He was the owner of the Marion 
Abstract Company and Franklin County Title in Benton. He served in the Army Air Corp 
during World War II. In his free time he enjoyed trap shooting. In addition to his wife, 
he is survived by a son and daughter-in-law, Steve and Rhoda Bond of the Lake of Egypt; 
two daughters and sons-in-law, Joanne "Jody" and Bob Fuson of Benton, and Karen and Ron 
Broeking of Marion; grandchildren, Erin Corder, Chad Fuson, and Carrie and Ben Cox. He 
was preceded in death by his parents. Memorials may be made to the Marion Third Baptist 
Church, TIP Home Health Care Services or Benton Immanuel Baptist Church building fund. 
Envelopes will be available at the funeral home and the church.



BONER, HARLEN
HARLEN BONER DIES Services Set Wednesday At Zeigler
Harlen BONER, 41, of Joliet formerly of Zeigler, died Sunday morning at his
home in Joliet of an apparent heart attack.
He was born March 25, 1921 at Zeigler, the son of Mr. and Mrs. Noah BONER of
Rt. 2, Mulkeytown.
Mr. BONER was employed at a metal container factory in Joliet, where he had
lived for the past five years. He was a World War II veteran.
He leaves his parents; wife, Lois; daughters, Mrs. James INGERSOLL and
Judith Ann, both of Joliet; sons, Harlen Jr., and Thomas, both of Joliet;
brothers, Clyde of Rt. 2, Mulkeytown, Charles, Loren and Bob, all of
Zeigler; sisters, Mrs. Herman BOOTS of Joliet and Mrs. Hollis DEES of
Aurora; and two grandchildren.
Funeral services will be at 2p.m. Wednesday at the First Christian Church,
Zeigler. The Rev. Bill JACKSON will officiate. Burial will be in Zeigler
Cemetery, where the Zeigler American Legion Post will conduct military
graveside rites.
Friends may call after 6 p.m. Tuesday at the Vantrease Funeral Home,Zeigler.
[The Southern Illinoisan, Carbondale, Illinois, Monday, Dec, 17, 1962,page 14]



BOSWELL, IRENE
Sesser 
Irene Boswell,  80, died Friday, Dec. 3, 1999, in the Franklin Skilled Care 
Unit of Franklin  Hospital, Benton. Services will be held at 11 a.m. Tuesday in 
the  Brayfield-Gilbert Funeral Home in Sesser, with Brothers Gene Outland and 
Harl  Ray Lewis officiating. Burial will follow in Maple Hill Cemetery. 
Friends may  call after 6 this evening at the funeral home. Mrs. Boswell was born 
on Aug. 22,  1919 in Franklin County, the daughter of John and Ethel (Cook) 
Eubanks. She was  married to Jesse Boswell on July 7, 1938. He survives. She was 
a member of Hazel  Dell Free Will Baptist Church, Sesser, and was a house 
wife, dedicated wife and  loving mother. In addition to her husband Jesse, she is 
survived by two sons,  and daughters-in-law, Marvin and Lulabell Boswell of 
Mulkeytown, Rodger and  Angela Boswell of O'Fallon; two daughters and 
sons-in-law, Jean and Curtis  Warren of Benton, Connie and Victor Brandalise of Sesser; 
fourteen  grandchildren; twenty great-grandchildren; three sisters, Leo Kunkel 
of  Mulkeytown, Gloma Harrison of Sesser, twin sister, Ilene Cockrum of 
Beckemyer.  She was preceded in death by her parents, two sisters, Velma Kunkel and 
Edith  Eubanks; one brother, Clyde Eubanks.



BOSTER, CARROL
BOSTER, Carrol A., 86, of McLeansboro, IL died at Union Hospital in West
Frankfort, IL on Thursday, August 17, 1989 at 2:01am. Funeral services
at Herre Funeral Home in McLeansboro, the Rev. Bill Auxier officiating;
Masonic service. Mr. Boster was born on December 7, 1902 in Macedonia,
the son of Vinson and Myrtle BOSTER. He was married to Noma ANDERSON in
1921, and she died in 1974. He had been a farmer, state policeman, game
warden, highway supervisor and the sheriff of Hamilton County. He was a
member of the Union Missionary Baptist Church and the Macedonia Masonic
Lodge 1128. Surviving are one daughter, Mrs. Carl (Norma) METHANEY,
West Frankfort; two grandchildren; five great grandchildren; 3 sistrs,
Mrs. Harold (Juanita) ROBERTSON, Abingdon, IL., Mrs. Joe (Dorothy)
RUAEL, Springfield, IL; and Mrs. Ruby KINNEAR, Sprinfield, IL. He was
preceded in death by his parents, three brothers, his wife and one
sister.
[History of Macedonia Franklin County Illinois
written by the 8th grade (1991) class of Ewing-Northern School]



BOURLAND, Barbara Jean 
West Frankfort 
Barbara Jean Bourland, 69, of 1737 E. Main St., died on Monday, Sept. 20, 1999 in 
Franklin Hospital. Services were held on Thursday, Sept. 23, at 1:30 p.m. in the 
Parker-Reedy Funeral Home, West Frankfort. Burial was in Tower Heights Cemetery. Mrs. 
Bourland was born on July 28, 1930, in Chicago, the daughter of Reece and Geneva 
(Thompson) Edwards. She was married on April 27, 1977, in West Frankfort to Arthur 
Bourland.
He survives. She has been involved for 19 years with the Franklin County, E.S.O.A. 
and for the last 12 years she served as assistant coordinator. In addition to her 
husband, Arthur, she is surived by one daughter, Lori and husband Harley Kelso of 
Loredo, Texas; a son and daughter-in-law, Carl and Jane Dobreff of Belleville,
Mich.; five grandchildren, Elizabeth, Barbara and Molly Kelso, Eric and Jason Dobreff . 
She was preceded in death by her parents, stepfather Irvin Odum, infant granddaughter, 
Amanda Kelso.



BOWLIN, GOFFERY
Services in Christopher for Goffery Bowlin 
Funeral services for Goffery Bowlin, 52, of Eau Claire, Michigan, will be held Saturday 
at 11 am at the Russell Funeral Home in Christopher. The Reverend D. Hinckel will officiate.
Interment will be in Harrison Cemetery. The body is lying in state at the funeral home.
Mr. Bowlin was a former resident of Christopher.[Benton Evening News Friday, Nov 3, 1972]



BOWLIN, HOBART W
CHRISTOPHER
Hobart W. BOWLIN, 58, of Collinsville, died
Thursday, Feb. 21, 2008, in Anderson Hospital in Maryville. 
Services will be at 1 p.m. Monday, Feb. 25, 2008, in Gilbert
Funeral Home in Christopher, with the Rev. Max SAMPLES
officiating. Burial will be in Mulkeytown Cemetery.
Visitation will be from 5 to 8 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 24, 2008,
at the funeral home. Memorials may be made to the American 
Cancer Society. He was a chemical engineer. He was an Army 
veteran of the Vietnam War. He was born June 14, 1949, in 
Christopher. He was the son of Earl SAMPLES and Genevieve 
(KIRKPATRICK). He married Debbie (RICE) BOWLIN. He is survived 
by his children, Melissa BOWLIN of Collinsville and Kevin and 
Andrea BOWLIN of Belleville;grandchildren, Amber, Josh, Carissa, 
Zachary, Riley, Cody and Miranda; and brothers and sisters, 
Phyllis and Sparky ROBINETTE of Fenton, Mo., Howard and Joanne 
BOWLIN of Christopher, Diane and Kenny UTLEY of Buckner and Lyle 
and Mandy BOWLIN of Elkville. 
He was preceded in death by his parents. 
The family appreciates all the support from family and
friends during his illness and their display of affection
during this time of need. 
The Southern Illinoisan, 23 Feb 2008 



BOYLES. ELBERT F.
BOYLES, Elbert F., 93, Route 1, Macedonia, died 9:00am, June 28, 1991 at
Hamilton Memorial Hospital in McLeansboro. Mr. Boyles was a grain and
livestock farmer most of his life in Hamilton County. He was born
September 14, 1897 in Knights Prairie Township, a son of John and
America (FOSTER) BOYLES. He married Lela SIMS in McLeansboro on January
17, 1920; she survies. Services at Harre Funeral Home in McLeansboro,
Rev. Kenneth Holland officiating. Burial at Macedonia Cemetery. Mr.
Boyles is also survived by one daughter, Mrs. Bill (Earlene) FISHER of
Macedonia; one granddaughter; Mrs. Jeff (Brenda) FERGUSON of Herrin; two
great granddaughters, Mrs. Todd (Terri) ROTZ of St. Louis and Miss Tamla
FERGUSON of Herrin; and one great, great granddaughter, Miss Micha ROTZ
of St. Louis. Mr. Boyles was reared and educated in Hamilton County. 
He was of the Protestant faith. He was preceded in death by his
parents, two sisters and one brother.
[History of Macedonia Franklin County Illinois
written by the 8th grade (1991) class of Ewing-Northern School]



BRADEN, HAROLD E. "COWBOY"  
West City 
Harold E. "Cowboy" Braden, died Saturday, June 19, 1999, in Franklin Hospital, Benton. 
Services will be held at 2 p.m. Wednesday, June 23, in the Poulson Funeral Home, with 
the Rev. Loyd Lasley officiating. Burial, with military rites, will be in the Masonic 
and Odd Fellows Cemetery. Friends may call from 10 a.m. Wednesday until time of service 
at the funeral home. Mr. Braden was born on Dec. 6, 1921, in Hamilton County, the son 
of the Rev. Dorcy and Louie Fay (Sanders) Braden. He was married to Mildred "Louise" 
Craddock. She died on Feb. 18, 1999. He was retired as a roof bolter from Freeman Coal 
Co. in Waltonville, and was a member of the Eakin Grove Baptist Church. A U.S. Army 
veteran of World War II, he was a member of the American Legion. Survivors include 
a daughter, Donna Lampley of Benton; a granddaughter, Nancy Graser and husband Paul 
of St. Charles, Mo.; great-grandson, Matthew Paul Graser of St. Charles, Mo.; three
foster children, Robert "Butch" and Connie Spain of Waltonville, Louise and Alan Minton 
of Christopher, Helen and Richard Davis of Benton; 8 foster grandchildren; 10 foster 
great-grandchildren. Mr. Braden was preceded in death by his parents, spouse, two 
brothers, Otis and Elmer Braden. 



BRADEN, TONA ELAINE  
Ina 
Tona Elaine Braden, 39, died Tuesday, July 13 a.m. in her home in Ina. Services will 
be held Friday, July 16, at 2 p.m. in the Polson Funeral Home, Benton, with the Rev. 
David Shores offciating. Burial will be in the Masonic & Odd Fellows Cemetery, Benton. 
Friends may call from 10 a.m. until time of service at the funeral home. Memorials
may be made to Michael T. Braden. Tona was born on April 25, 1960, in Benton, the 
daughter of Arthur F and Shirley (Tate) Braden Ehrhart. Her spouse was Tom Isom, who 
survives in Ina. She was a retired nurse's aid and was of the Baptist faith. Other 
survivors include two sons, Robert D. and Michael T. Braden, both of Ina; one daughter, 
Mary Beth Braden of Ina; a stepdaughter, Jamie Marie Morris of Ina; two grandchildren, 
Dalton Matthew and Kelsey Marie; a step-grandchild Kaitlin Nicole; brothers, Steve and 
wife Chris Holmes of Fairborn, Ohio, Arthur and wife Karen Braden also of Fairborn; 
sisters, Karin Ward of South Carolina and Bonnie Rhodes of Ft. Meyers, Fla.; several 
nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents and one son, Nicholas 
Arthur Braden, who preceded her in death in 1994. 



BRADLEY, GEORGE C.
George C. BRADLEY, 90, of Sesser, died Thursday evening, suffering from
pneumonia. His wife preceded him in death several years ago. He leaves three
daughters, Mrs. Laura WILLIS, Mrs. Della ADKINS and Mrs. Emaline BATES, and
three sons, Henry, Marshall and John BRADLEY, all of Sesser. He also leaves one
sister, Mrs. Florence SPANN, of near Sesser. Burial will take place at Mt.
Pleasant Cemetery.
[per obit in Obits & Tidbits 1937-1938 (PULLIAM) pg 54, 11 Feb 1938 issue]



BRADLEY, HENRY
SESSER MAN DIES; SERVICES SET FRIDAY
Henry BRADLEY, 82, Sesser, died at 5:30 p.m. Tuesday in
Christopher Miners Hospital..
He leaves his wife Ethel; step-daughter Marie SHOEMAKER of
Sesser; brothers Marshall and John, both of Sesser; sister
Mrs. Della ADKINS of Sesser; sister Emmaline BATES of
Chicago; and one step-grandson. 
Funeral services will be at 2 p.m. Friday at the Brayfield
Funeral Home, with the Rev. Olin GREATHOUSE of Carrier Mills
officiating. Burial will be in Maplehill Cemetery. Friends
may call after 6 p.m. today at the funeral home.
The Southern Illinoisan, Carbondale, Ill., Wed.,Jan. 27,1960



BRADLEY, JOHN
RITES SET THURSDAY FOR JOHN BRADLEY
John BRADLEY, 70, Sesser, died at 9 a.m. Tuesday in the Lynwood Nursing
Home, Benton. He had been ill several years. 
Mr. BRADLEY was born Feb. 7, 1890 in Franklin County. His parents were
George and Eliza PACKITT BRADLEY.
He was a World War I veteran and a retired miner. 
He leaves his wife Hanna; step-daughter Mrs. Lucy FUMAGALLI of Sesser;
sisters Mrs. Della ADKINS of Sesser, Mrs. Emily BATES of Chicago; brother
Marshall of Sesser and one grandchild. 
Funeral services will be at 2 p.m. Thursday at Brayfield Funer-call. [sic]. 
Burial with military graveside rites will be in Maple Hill Cemetery, Sesser.
The Southern Illinoisan, Carbondale, Illinois, Wednesday, February 10, 1960,page 2



BRADY, PATSEY JANE
Mrs. Patsey Jane BRADY, aged 74, died yesterday at her home in Benton.
She was born to Andrew and Margaret ARNOLD on 24 February 1867 at
Harisburg, Illinois. During her childhood days her parents moved to
near Benton where she spent most of her life. On October 1883 she
married Edgar L. LIGON. There was born to this union five children,
Elmer, Charlie and Eva LIGON, deceased, and Evertt LIGON and Paula LIGON
JONES. Her husband died in Feb. 1895. On 18 Dec 1896 she then wed W. R.
BRADY, to them were born three children, Earl, Jim and Maude, Now Mrs.
Maude RICE. She leaves her husband, William R., two daughters, Mrs.
Frank Rice of Taylorville and Mrs. Harvey JONES of Benton: three sons,
Everett LIGON and JIM BRADY of Benton, and Earl BRADY of Sullivan,
Indiana. She is also survived by one brother, Thomas ARNOLD of Mt.
Vernon, Illinois and one sister Mrs. Alice ADAMS. Burial at Masonic and
Oddfellows Cem.(combined with obit carried 24 March 1941).
[O/T 1941-1942: Carla Pulliam; page 2; article dated 14 Jan, 1941]



BRANDIBAS, MARY E.  
Christopher 
Mary Bandibas, 76, of 408 E. 15th St., died at 5 p.m. on Wednesda,y, Sept. 29, 1999. 
Services will be held Saturday, Oct. 2 at noon in the Gilbert Funeral Home with the 
Rev. Perry Musgrave officiating. Burial will be in the Mulkeytown Cemetery. Friends 
may call after 10 a.m. Saturday until time of service at the funeral home. Mrs. 
Brandibas was born on Aug. 13, 1923, in Christopher, the daughter of Lester
and Dora (Montgomery) Smith. She was first married to Paul Space and later married 
Eli Brandibas. They both preceded her in death. She was a housewife and of the 
Catholic faith. Survivors include one daughter, Paula J. and husband Mike Saul of 
Christopher; two grandchilden; four great-grandchildren; four brothers, Norman Smith 
of Valier, Bob Smith of Christopher, Lester Smith of Herrin, James Smith of Granite 
City; one daughter, Carol Sue Maibaum of Kokomo, Ind. She was also preceded in death 
by one sister.



BRAY, HARRY FRANKLIN
Tuesday, October 4th, 1932
Harry Franklin Bray was the son of Thomas and Fannie Browning Bray. He was born 
in the city of Chicago on Sept. 25th, 1868; died at St. Louis, Missouri, on Sept. 
19th, 1932. He was the oldest of the family of 10 children. Of his father's family, 
three brothers, Walter L., Harold and Thomas, and a sister, Mabel E., survive. Mr. 
Bray was fortunate in his parentage. His father was a native of England, and his 
ancestry by the records of the old church in the city of Plymouth can be traced to 
the time of William the Conqueror. His mother was the granddaughter of James Browning, 
one of the pioneer settlers and Baptist ministers of Franklin County, Illinois. The 
early boyhood of Mr. Bray was spent in Chicago. When he was 19, he, with his parents, 
moved to California. In his late boyhood and early manhood, for several years, he was 
a sailor. When in a reminiscent mood he would tell of his many adventures of his trips
to China and Japan and his voyages around the world. On August 14th, 1892 he married 
Alice, the daughter of Thomas J. and Elizabeth W ard. Their happy married life of 
nearly 37 years was broken only by the death of his wife on May 20th, 1929. To them 
was born a daughter, Stella, the wife of Thomas Smith. His daughter, son-in-law, and 
three grandchildren, Thomas, Robert and Charles S mith, survive. For some years after 
his marriage, Mr. Bray resided in Benton. He lived four years in Chicago, and for the 
last 17 years he resided in West Frankfort. For some years he had been a employee of 
the Excelsior Stove Company of Quincy, Illinois. He was a Mason and a member of the 
First Christian Church of West Frankfort.
[Submitted by: Sheila Cadwalader]



BREWSTER, BROSSELL (DOTY)
BENTON
Brossell BREWSTER, 96, of Benton died at 2:15 p.m. Sunday, June 29, 2003, at
the Carbondale Nursing and Rehabilitation Center. Graveside services will be
held at 2 p.m. Thursday, July 3, 2003 at the Bethel Cemetery, Benton, with
Pastor Jack WOLFE officiating. Visitation will be from 1 to 2 p.m. Thursday
at the Hobbs-Johnson Funeral Home, Benton. Mrs. BREWSTER was born Jan. 28,
1907, in Benton, the daughter of William Edward DOTY and Cora (RICE) DOTY.
She was a lifelong resident of Benton and was the oldest living member of
the First United Methodist Church in Benton. She worked for the Hart and
Hart Law firm as a legal secretary and retired from the Illinois Department
of Public Aid as a caseworker. After retirement she worked for Doty Plumbing
and Heating.
She is survived by a daughter, Marilyn BREWSTER ODANIELL and husband Bob,
Carbondale, six grandchildren, Cora ODANIELL SEDLACEK and husband Dean,
Goldsboro, N.C., David ODANIELL, Carbondale, Tim ODANIELL and wife Susan,
Placentia, CA, Tom ODANIELL and wife Danielle, San Diego, CA, Jeff ODANIELL
and wife Gail, Carbondale, Stephen ODANIELL, Carbondale, six
great-grandchildren, Grant SEDLACEK, Sean, Kyle, Andrew, Megan, and Joseph
ODANIELL, a sister, Mary HARRIS, West Frankfort, and several nieces,
nephews, and cousins. Mrs. BREWSTER was preceded in death by her parents,
three sisters, Bonnie YOUNG, Pauline FIELDS, Martha SANDERS, a brother, Troy
DOTY, and three siblings that died in early childhood. In lieu of flowers,
memorial contributions may be made to the Bethel Cemetery Association or
Hospice of Southern Illinois and will be accepted at the funeral home.
[Benton Evening News, Benton, IL, Tues 1 July 2003]



BRIDEWLL, ELSIE SIMS
BRIDWELL, Elsie Sims, 100, died September 10, 1981 at the United
Methodist Village in Lawrenceville. A former resident of Macedonia and
Benton, Mrs. Bridwell was a retired occupational therapist. She was a
member of the First Untied Methodist Church in Benton. She was preceded
in death by her parents, Robert H. and Louisa FISHER JOHNSON, and her
first husband, Dr. J. M. Sims, who died in 1935. She later married the
late Sam Bridwell. Survivors include a stepdaughter, Mrs. Lena BAKER,
Harrisburg, one grandson, Charles Van VAIKENBURG, Springfield, one
niece, Mrs. Pauline RICHARDSON, Carmi, and two nephews, John M. McAFOOS
and H. M. AIKEN, both of Benton. Graveside services were held at
Antioch Cemetery east of Macedonia under the direction of the
Hobbs-Johnson Funeral Home of Benton.
[History of Macedonia Franklin County Illinois
written by the 8th grade (1991) class of Ewing-Northern School]



BRILEY, VIRGIL
BRILEY, Virgil, 64, of Macedonia, died December 24, 1977 at Franklin
Hospital after an illness of two months. Mr. Briley, a lifelong
resident of the area, was a retired coal miner, formerly employed at
Orient 2 mine at Waltonville. He is survived by his wife, Louise
THOMASON Briley; a son, Otto Briley, Elkville, and three daughters,
Marily Sue LACY, Hurst; Joan Onette JOHNSON, Lincoln; and Janice Lynn
Briley, Benton. He also leaves seven grandchildren and a sister, Marie
LYNCH, Benton. Funeral services at Johnston Funeral Home in
Whittington, Rev. Ron CREMEENS officiating. Interment at Williams
Chapel Cemetery.
[Book: History of Macedonia Franklin County Illinois
written by the 8th grade (1991) class of Ewing-Northern School]



BRITTON, DECOMPTON
Rites Conducted for Decompton Britton
Services were conducted at 2 o'clock Saturday for Decompton Britton, 78, at the Liberty 
Baptist Church with Rev. Riley Burton officiating.  Mr. Britton passed away at his home 
in Northern Township at 2:30 a.m. Friday.
Burial rites were held in the Liberty cemetery with the Mitchell Funeral Home in charge.
Mr. Britton was born in Franklin County on March 4, 1858, the son of Mr. and Mrs. Louis 
Britton.  He was a member of the Stockwell church.
Surviving are four children, Mrs. Alfred Ward, Belleville; Mrs. Alva Carter, Chicago 
Heights; Lee Britton, Ewing, and Fred Britton of Galesburg; one borther, Monroe Britton, 
Champaign, and a sister, Mrs. Nancy Ede of St Louis, also survive.
("1936" handwritten on the bottom of the obit)
[Submitted by: Sheila Cadwalader]



BRITTON, TOM
TOM BRITTON, 77, RETIRED FARMER OF EWING, DIES
Tom Britton, 77, Ewing, died at Franklin Hospital in Benton Friday at 8:50 a.m.  
He was a retired farmer. Funeral services were held Sunday at 2 p.m. at the Johnston 
Funeral Home in Whittington.  The Rev. C. J. Ketterman and the Rev. Ray Christman 
officiated.  Burial was in the Masonic and Odd Fellows Cemetery in Benton.
Mr. Britton was born in Illinois Aug. 2, 1893, to John C. and Mary (Moore) Britton.  
He was married to the former Bertha Provart.  She survives.
Other survivors include three sons, Carol O. Britton, Effingham, Ernest M. Britton, 
Springfield, and Earl Britton, Carlyle; a brother, Marion Britton, of Benton; a 
sister, Nancy Cook, of California; seven grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.
Benton  Evening News - December 1970



BROOKS, ADA
BROOKS, Ada, 88, of Macedonia, died November 26, 1985 at the Skilled
Nursing Care Unit of Franklin Hospital. Mrs. Brooks was a member of the
Macedonia United Methodist Church. She was a native of Franklin County,
born September 7, 1897, to Willis and Della PAGE HOLMAN. She was the
wife of Clifford BROOKS, who preceded her in death. Mrs. Brooks is
survived by a son, Walter BROOKS, Macedonia, and two daughters, Faye
LAUNIUS, McLeansboro and June BLOOD, Macedonia. She also leaves a
grandson, Larry EUBANKS; a foster grandson, Lewis WINEMILLER; two foster
great grandchildren; a brother Orpha HOLMAN, Yorkville, and three
sisters, Esthel GRIFFIN, Benton; Odeal RILEY, California and Mazie
FRANCIS, Peoria. She was preceded in death by her husband, parents, an
infant son and a sister. Funeral services at Gholson Funeral Home in
McLeansboro. Interment in Macedonia cemetery.
[Book: History of Macedonia Franklin County Illinois
written by the 8th grade (1991) class of Ewing-Northern School]



BROWN, ERNEST 
Mulkeytown
Funeral services for Ernest BROWN, 84, formerly of Rt. 2,
Mulkeytown, will be at 1 p.m Thursday at the Russell Funeral
Home, Christopher.
The Rev. Fred KEIM will officiate. Burial will be in the
Mulkeytown Cemetery. Friends may call at the funeral home
after 3 p.m. today.
Mr. BROWN died at 9:30 p.m Monday in the New Haven Nursing
Center, Carbondale. He had been ill for some time.
Born Sept. 28, 1887, in Franklin County, he was the son of
Uriah and Ella NAYLOR BROWN.
He was a retired farmer and member of the Mulkeytown
Christian Church.
His wife, the former Permelia SHORT, died Jan. 10, 1960. A
daughter, Betty LITTLEHALE, also preceded him in death.
Surviving are two sons, Everett BROWN of Bethalto and Louie
BROWN of Rt. 2, Mulkeytown; three daughters, Blanche GOFF of
Christopher, Mildred LAWRENCE of Rt. 2, Mulkeytown, and
Virginia WHITE of Lawndale Calif,; 19 grandchildren and 19
great-grandchildren; and two brothers, Luther and Isom
BROWN, both of Christopher.
The Southern Illinoisan, Carbondale, Ill., Wednesday,April 26, 1972



BROWN, BILLY
Sesser 
Billy Brown, 83, of 14541 St. Hwy. 168, Sesser, died in his home at 11:10 p.m. on Tuesday, 
Aug. 24, 1999. Services will be held at 11 a.m. Friday in the Brayfield-Gilbert Funeral Home, 
Sesser, with the Rev. Larry Cook officiating. Burial will be in Maple Hill Cemetery. Friends 
may call after 6 p.m. Thursday at the funeral home, with a Masonic service scheduled for 7 p.m.
Mr. Brown was born in Rend City on Aug. 9, 1916, the son of Rayburn and Velma Beryl (Yung)
Brown. He was married to Martha Elizabeth (Troxel) Brown on Oct. 21, 1951. She survives. He
was a retired heavy equipment operator, a farmer, livestock and grain elevator dealer. A member
of Local 181 Operators Union, he belonged to Scottish Rite, Belleville, Ainad Shrine Temple in East
St. Louis . He was an Army veteran of World War II and a member of the V.F.W., American Legion
and D.A.V. all of Sesser. In addition to his wife, he is survived by several nieces and nephews. He 
was preceded in death by his parents and one brother, Lewis Rayburn Brown. 



BROWN, ELIZABETH
Elizabeth Brown
Elizabeth Ann Brown,95, of Sesser died 8:50 a.m. March 14, 1998, 
at Mt.Vernon Care Center.
She was a housewife.
Mrs. Brown was born Aug. 14 1902, in Jefferson County, a daughter of
Harry and Ann Wells. In St.Louis,she married Burtice A. Brown, who
died Dec. 25, 1964.
Services will be 11 a.m. Tuesday at the Johnston Funeral Home in
Mt.Vernon wih Rev. Dale Brown officiating. burial will be in South
Hickory Hill Cemetery.
Friends may call after 5 p.m. Monday at the Johnston Funeral Home in 
Mt.Vernon.
Mrs. Brown is survived by one son, Lester Brown of Anna; four daughters,
Rosella Marcum of Mt.Vernon, Hilda Phelps of Mt.Vernon, Betty McMahan and
husband John of Lacon and Wilma McMahan and husband Billie of Mt.Vernon;
one daughter-in-law, Clara Brown of Sesser; 15 grandchildren; 37 great-
grandchildren; and 50 great-great-grandchildren.
Mrs. Brown was preceeded in death by her parents, husband, one son,
one brother, one sisiter, two grandsons and one granddaughter.
She was a member of the Church of God, Sesser.



BROWN, REV. EUGENE L. 
Benton
(includes photo)
The Rev. Eugene L. BROWN, 72, of Benton went to be with the Lord at 5:55 p.m. 
Saturday, May 17, 2008, at St. Mary's Good Samaritan Regional Health Center in 
Mt. Vernon. Visitation will be from 5 to 8 p.m. Tuesday, May 20, at the 
Hobbs-Johnson Funeral Home in Benton. Funeral services will be at 10 a.m. 
Wednesday at the funeral home with Sister Bernadine CALDWELL officiating. Burial 
will be in the Brady Cemetery in Akin with military rites performed by the 
Benton American Legion and V.F.W. Memorial contributions may be made to the 
American Kidney Fund and will be accepted at the funeral home.
Rev. BROWN was born Dec. 22, 1935, in Christopher, the son of Clyde BROWN and 
Ruby (TONEY) BROWN BAILEY. He married the former Mary (REED) BARNHILL on June 
10, 1995, and she survives. He was a retired journeyman pipefitter and U.S. Army 
veteran. He was a member of the Full Gospel Church, Buckner, where he enjoyed 
playing his guitar for the work of the Lord.
Surviving relatives include his wife, Mary BARNHILL BROWN, Benton; two 
daughters, Aleshia GRAVES, Benton, and Ellen BROWN and husband, David, Granite 
City; two sons, Clyde BARNHILL and wife Marlene, Belleville, and Rodney 
BARNHILL, Chester; three grandchildren, Chris GRAVES and wife, April, Mt. 
Vernon, Dewayne GRAVES, Benton, and Robyn BARNHILL, Belleville; three 
great-grandchildren, David GRAVES, Ina, and Dustin and Dylan GRAVES, both of Mt. 
Vernon; six brothers, Jerry and Richard BROWN, both of Illinois, and Robert, 
David, Larry and Tommy BROWN, all of Florida; and several sisters-in-law, 
brothers-in-law, nieces, nephews, and devoted neighbors and friends. Rev. BROWN 
was preceded in death by his parents. 
Benton Evening News, Benton IL, Tues 20 May 2008 issue




BROWN, JAMES
Joint Funeral Services for a West Frankfort Couple James and Nancy BROWN.
They were found dead 10-22-1985, believe to be murder-suicide. Burial was
in Brady Cem near Akin. He was 44 and s/o Ernie and Maxine BROWN and she
was 46 d/o Irving and Vesta WALLER. Members of Calvary Church in W. F.
surviving are a daughter Lorena and a son James Athony and a gd. His father
and two brothers, Tom and Bennet BROWN and a sister Sheila Turner and Mrs.
Brown leaves two brothers Robert and James WALLER.



BROWN, JENNIFER E.
Age 42 of Benton died Monay May 19, 2008 at her home.
Services will be at 3 pm Sunday, June 1, 2008 in Brayfied - Gilbert funeral Home in Sesser.
Burial will be at a later date. Visitation will be from 1 to 3 pm on Sunday, June 1, 2008, 
at the funeral home.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the family and may be mailed to Brayfied-Gilbert 
Funeral Home, Box 624, Sesser, Illinois 62884
She followed in her mother's footsteps and became a nurse.
She was a member of  the First Baptist Church in Benton.  She loved her flowers and attending 
to them.
She was born January 1, 1965 to Jerry Edward and Janet June (EMBSER)  WESTERLAND.
She married Kenneth L. BROWN JR.
She is survived by her children, Andrew Michael BROWN of Benton, Mallory Paige BROWN of 
Benton and Jared James WESTERLAND; brother JamesEdward WESTERLAND of Seattle, Wash.;  
Brothers and sister-in-law, Rhonda Lynn and Todd HAWKINS of Mulkeytown and Gregg L. and 
michelle BROWN of Dix; nieces and nephews, Taylor Marie HAWKINS, Gage Wesley HAWKINS, 
Gunner Zane HAWKINS, Dylan Lee BROWN and Kaitlyn Jo BROWN.
She was preceded in death by her parents and father-in-law Kenneth L. BROWN Sr.



BROWN, MARGIE 
West Frankfort 
Margie Brown, 67, of 804 E. Garland St. died in the home of her son on Thursday, 
June 23, 1999. Services will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday in the Parker-Reedy Funeral 
Home, with the Rev. Donald Riedel officiating. Burial will be in the Pleasant Grove 
Cemetery, west of Vienna. Visitation is after 9 a.m. Saturday until time of 
service at the funeral home. Mrs. Brown was born on June 7, 1932, in West Frankfort, 
the daughter of Ross and Lillian (Wicker) Lowman. She was married to Bill Brown and 
he survives. She was a member of the Northern Baptist Church in West Frankfort. In 
addition to her husband Bill, she is survived by one son, Gary Brown and wife Sandy 
of Thompsonville; one daughter, Jane Allen and husband David of Benton; four grandchildren, 
Julie Swigonski of Benton, Mechele Whaley of West Frankfort, Melissa Shimkus of 
Thompsonville; Brad Allen of Benton; three great-grandchildren, Kyle, Tristan and Cory. 
She was preceded in death by her parents, one granddaughter Lynn Ann Allen, two brothers, 
Ralph and Paul Lowman. Friends who wish may make memorials to Lynn Ann Allen Memorial.



BROWN, NANCY
Joint Funeral Services for a West Frankfort Couple James and Nancy BROWN.
They were found dead 10-22-1985, believe to be murder-suicide. Burial was
in Brady Cem near Akin. He was 44 and s/o Ernie and Maxine BROWN and she
was 46 d/o Irving and Vesta WALLER. Members of Calvary Church in W. F.
surviving are a daughter Lorena and a son James Athony and a gd. His father
and two brothers, Tom and Bennet BROWN and a sister Sheila Turner and Mrs.
Brown leaves two brothers Robert and James WALLER.



BROWN, PERMELIA
Mulkeytown 
FUNERAL WEDNESDAY FOR MRS. PERMELIA BROWN
Mrs. Permelia BROWN, 72, Rt. 1, Mulkeytown, died at 11:50
p.m. Sunday in Marshall Browning Hospital, Du Quoin. She had
been ill four years. 
Born near Goreville Sept. 27, 1887, she was the daughter of
David Carl and Derinda HUDSON SHORT. She married Ernest
BROWN Dec 19, 1905. 
She had been a Franklin County resident 55 years and was a
member of the Mulkeytown Christian Church. 
She leaves her husband; children Everett of Bethalto, Louie
and Mrs. Blanche GOFF, both of Christopher; Mrs. Mildred
Lawrence WHITE of Rondonda Beach, Calif., Mrs. Betty
LITTLEHALE of Zeigler; brothers Alva of Marion and John of
Christopher; 17 grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.
Funeral services will be at 1 p.m. Wednesday at the
Mulkeytown Christian Church, with burial in Mulkeytown
Cemetery. Friends may call at Russell Funeral Home
Christopher after 7 p.m. today. 
The Southern Illinoisan, Carbondale, Illinois, Monday,January 11, 1960



BROWN, ROY
Christopher
ROY BROWN DIES AT CHRISTOPHER
Roy BROWN, 85, of rural Christopher, was dead on arrival at
Miners Hospital, Christopher, at 10:45 a. m. Saturday of an
apparent heart attack.
Mr. BROWN was a retired farmer. He was a member of the
Church of Christ at Christopher.
Born Nov. 20, 1884, at Mulkeytown, he was the son of Thomas
and Ella NAYLOR BROWN. He first married Mattie SHANNON, who
preceded him in death. His second wife, Josephine JONES,
survives.
In addition to his wife, he leaves a daughter, Mrs. Marie
HULL of Carbondale; a son, Thomas, of Huntington Beach
Calif.; three step daughters, Mrs. Marie ROSS of Kent, Ohio,
Mrs. Grace MICKEY of Reynoldsburg, Ohio, and Mrs. Dorothy
BALLARD of St. Louis, Mo.; three brothers, Ernest of Benton,
and Luther and Isom, both of rural Christopher; eight
grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.
Services will be 2 p.m. Tuesday at the Gilbert Funeral Home,
Christopher. Daryl BUSBY will officiate. Burial will be in
the Odd Fellows Cemetery, Du Quoin. Friends may call after4
p.m. today at the funeral home.
The Southern Illinoisan, Carbondale, Ill, Monday, June 22, 1970



BROWN, WILLIAM RAYMOND (DOC)  
Christopher 
William Raymond (Doc) Brown, 86, died Tuesday, Sept. 28, 1999 at Franklin Hospital 
in the ICU unit. He will be cremated. A Memorial service for Mr. Brown will be held 
on at 7 p.m. Friday, Oct. 1, at the Apostolic Church , on the corner of 5th and Church 
St. in Christopher. The Rev. Eugene L. Brown will officiate. All family and friends 
are welcome. No flowers please. Mr. Brown was born in Christopher on June 7, 1913,
the son of James and Kerry Brown. He was a retired automobile salesman. He is survived 
by one son, Bob of Banning, California; a grandson Joey in the Navy; three sisters, 
Grace Brown of Banning, Ruby (Sue) Popovich of Banning, Ieline Sutton, Tuscon, Az.; 
two brothers, Clyde Brown of East Peoria, Roy Brown of Banning; several nieces and 
nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, one son, Michael, three brothers, 
Glen, James 
(Lorne) Lloyd and Sim Russel. 



BROWNING, GRACE
MOTHER OF MRS. BARNFIELD DIES
Mrs. Grace Browning, mother of Mrs. R. L. Barnfield of Mt. Vernon, died
at her home east of Benton at 5:00 p.m. Sunday.
She was the wife of W.E. Browning.
Funeral services will be held Tuesday at 2:00 p.m. at the Mt. Zion
church, east of Benton.
Besides her husband, she is survived by two sons, Martin of Ewing, Ill.
and Kenneth of Benton, and three daughters, Mrs. Genevieve Odum and Mrs.
Alma Jane Rogers of Benton and Mrs. R.L. Barnfield of Mt. Vernon.



BROWNING, JAMES MARTIN
JAMES MARTIN BROWNING, EWING
James Martin Browning, 83, of 19521 State Highway 14, died at 6:52 a.m. on Wednesday, 
September 24, 1997, in the Good Samaritan Regional Health Center, Mt. Vernon.
Services will be held Saturday at 11 a.m. in the Hobbs-Johnson Funeral Home with 
the Rev. Jesse  Allen officiating.  Burial will be in the Liberty-Ridlen Cemetery, 
Macedonia.  Visitation will be from 5-9 p.m. Friday evening at the funeral home.
Mr. Browning was born Nov. 24, 1913, in Rend City, the son of W. E. and Grace (Burns) 
Browning.  He married the former Genevieve Page on Sept. 28, 1935.  She survives.
He was a retired farmer and a Deacon at Webbs Prairie Free Will Baptist Church, Ewing.
Survivors include his wife, Genevieve, Ewing; a daughter, Janice and Husband Val 
Pritchett, Bloomington; a son, Richard and wife Nora Browning, Ewing; five grandchildren, 
Steve Browning, Benton, Shelley Romani, Sesser, Susan Browning, Benton, Mark Pritchett,  
Bloomington, Emily Pritchett, Decatur; one great grandson,Tyler Pritchett,a stepgreat-
granddaughter, Jordan Miller, two sisters, Genevieve Odom, Benton and Alma Jane Rippel, 
Sun City, Ariz.; one brother, Kenneth Browning, Benton.
Mr. Browning was preceded in death by his parents and a sister, Vella Barnfield.
[Benton Evening News   Sept. 1997]



BROWNING, LEVI
Died, at his residence in Benton, Ill., Saturday, July 22nd 1905, Levi
Browning, aged 84 years 9 months and 5 days.
Old and full of years, he was gathered to his fathers, like a ripe sheaf of
wheat, with his beloved wife, his children and grand children and a great host
of relatives and friends around him all bearing eloquent testimony to the
singularly pure life he led, to his charity and his great love to God and to
his fellow man. Eighty-four years of active, busy life! What great changes he
saw! Almost a hundred years, the lifetime of three generations!
Levi Browning's father was John Browning, a Missionary Baptist minister,
who was born in North Carolina in 1781, moving to Tennessee, and coming from
that state to Illinois in 1804, and moved into the Jordan Fort to be safe from
Indians. This fort was three miles south of Fitts Hill. John Browning acted as
guard for the mail carrier from Kaskaskia to Shawneetown twice a week for some
time. His wife was Nancy Kitchen Browning. His family was large and he has one
hundred and fifty descendents living.
His children who arrived at maturity were:
Luke, the eldest.
Polly King, mother of Wm. King and Willis King of Ewing, and Mary A. Piper.
Betsey Ann King, mother of Mrs. Sidney Haney and Mrs. Sallie Cook.
Wm. R. Browning, father of D. M. Browning deceased, W. R. Browning, J. M.
Browning and L. A. Browning of St. Louis, Mrs. Moberly of Chicago, Mrs. Lopas,
deceased, of Texas, Mrs. Schwartz of Idaho.
James K. Browning, twin brother of William R., father of Mrs. F. L. Rea, W.
R. Browning,Jr., Senator J. K. Browning of Arkansas, and Robert F., whose
family is now in California, and Mrs. Fannie Bray, deceased, of California.
Martha (Mrs. Patsey Moore) mother of Levi M. Jones, Joseph Moore and M.V.
Jones of Christopher, and William Moore, deceased.
Levi Browning.
Jonathan, father of Treasurer W. R. Browning, Ellsworth and Sherman
Browning, Mrs. C. F. Rea, and Carroll Browning, Mrs. Leanna Robinson of
Colorado, Andrew P., and Mrs. Augustine Martin and John A., deceased.
Joseph, (a twin brother of Jonathan) father of Warren Browning.
Bennett A. Browning, father of Mrs. F. D. Pugh of St. Louis.
William R. and James K., twins, were the first white children born in
Franklin County. John Browning was the first person baptized in Big Muddy
River.
John Browning finally settled on the Browning Hill, where Levi was born in
1820. That property has been in the Browning family ever since and always will
be.
In 1840 Levi came to Benton, where he lived until his death. He soon
engaged in the mercantile business, selling goods on the old Naylor corner. He
had to haul his goods from St. Louis in wagons. He frequently went to St.
Louis on horseback. In 1848 he build the first sawmill in the county. In 1852
he build the first steam flour mill in the county, on West Street in Benton.
He build the first ice house in the county. He was a miller until 1860 when be
became a merchant again, and kept his store going until he finally retired fom
business in 1888.
In 1853 he was married to Fannie Howell of St. Clair County, who died in
1854, leaving no children, her infant son dying about two weeks before its
mother's death.
In 1856 he married Miss Tabitha Layman, who survives him. To this union
were born eight children. The oldest, Florence, died at the age of four. The
living children are: Mrs. Lulu B. Ward, Quincy E., Thos. S., John L., Mrs. F.
J. Hickman, Mrs. L. E. Chenault, and Miss Nancy. All these children are
residents of Benton, save Mrs. Chenault, whose home is in Thompsonville. All
are married except Quincy E. and Miss Nancy.
Levi Browning helped lay out the city of Benton, and attended the first
sale of town lots. His name appears on more deeds than any other man in the
county. He was identified from the (there is some here I can't read) College
at Upper Alton. He was always a strong friend of Ewing College. He never
missed his church services if he could walk. His house was a home for all
ministers of any denomination and for all visiting brethren. He seemed to have
the true spirit of religion, and never refused charity to anyone. He built and
gave away more houses than most men own in a lifetime. He gave away thousands
of dollars to the deserving, yet he left all his people well provided for, and
died a firm believer in the doctrine that the righteous shall not be forsaken.
He was a man of most even temper and his kindness of heart was proverbial. He
lived a long and useful life and died without an enemy in the world. And all
who knew him must admit that he was a christian who absolutely believed in
and practiced the precepts of his faith.
The funeral services were held Sunday at 2 p.m., in the church he loved so
well. The casket was covered with beautiful flowers and emblems. All his
living children, his aged wife, his grandchildren and relatives were present,
besides a great concourse of people who knew and loved him. The services were
conducted by Elder Cole, who had known the deceased since boyhood, and by
Elder W. H. Carnes, who had known him since he was eight years old. The songs
were sung by the ones Brother Browning loved the best. The funeral services
were ----- the air of perfect rest and peace, that seemed to be a fitting
close to such a life.
Among those who came to pay the last tribute of respect were Parson Cole
and wife and Mrs. Kate Ford of DuQuoin, J.M. and L.A. Browning of St. Louis,
Mrs. W.P. Throgmorton of Marion, C.H. and Ben Pope, D.-- Harrison and D. D.
Williams of Herrin.
After the service the ----- was laid to rest in the Masonic and Odd
Fellows' Cemetery to await the resurrection of the just. In his life and his
death he was that perfect picture in the poet's mind, when the lines were
written: " How blest the righteous when he dies, W/Then sinks his weary soul
to rest."



BROWNING, MARY TERESA
MRS TERESA BROWNING DIES
Funeral service for Mrs. Mary Teresa BROWNING, 82 of Macedonia will be at 2 pm 
tomorrow at Bethel Baptist Church in Eastern toewnship. Ola Allen will officiate 
and burial will be in Liberty Cemetery, Northern Township. Vse and Mitchel Funeral 
home in charge the body will lie in state at the funeral home. She died at Miners 
Hospital in Christopher, yesterday afternoon following a six weeks illness. She is 
survived by her husband C. A. BROWNING and four children, Robert BROWNING of 
Macedonia, Mrs. H. E. MOSS of Christopher, Percy L. BROWNING of San Francisco, 
California and Roy Browning of Chicago. Two children, Ross and Stanley preceded 
her in death.
Two sisters, Emma EUBANKS, Anna TAYLOR both of Benton and three brothers Frank 
WILDERMAN of Zeigler, Walter WILDERMAN of Denver and Evan WILDERmAN of Benton 
also survive.



BROWNLEE, ADDISON M.
21 Apr 1911: Addison M. BROWNLEE died April 17th at his E. St. Louis home
and was buried at Masonic and Oddfellows Cemetery in Benton Tuesday
afternoon. He was born 5 Oct. 1845 at Lavonia, Indiana. His father, James
BROWNLEE, was a Presbyterian minister and necessarily traveled over quite a
scope of country, spending some time in Kansas, and afterwards, about 1865,
locating at Lebanon, Illinois, where Addison graduated from McKendree
College. After leaving school he first taught at O'Fallon then at other
schools in St. Clair county and in 1871 moved to Shawneetown to accept the
position as principal of the school. Here he married Miss Lizzie LOWE, but
she died a few months later. In 1875 he went to Virginia, Illinois as editor
of the Gazette, moving in 1878 to Benton where he took charge of the
Standard, where he remained until the plant was destroyed by fire in 1908.
He then moved to E. St. Louis and established "The Optomist." Addison
enlisted in the service of the United States at the age of 17, serving 3
years as a member of the 2nd Kansas Cavalry Scouts. He is survived by his
wife, Mary CANTRELL BROWNLEE, who he married in 1876, and three sons,
William Addison, Robert Crawford and John James BROWNLEE, and two daughters,
Mrs. Jeanne Vivian SWAIN and Miss Tusie Kate BROWNLEE. Two of his life-long
friends, Judge M.C. CRAWFORD and Rev. Joe MEADS, preached his funeral.



BRUCE, CLYDE
Clyde Bruce, 80, of 904 North 9th Street, Benton, died Sunday at Franklin Hospital.
Mr. Bruce is survived by two sons, Gary and Don Bruce, two grandchildren, Teri and 
Chuck Bruce, and a sister, Geneva Carr, all of Benton. He was preceded in death 
by his parents, William and Martha Griffin Bruce, and nine brothers and sisters.
Funeral services will be Wednesday at 2 p.m. at Morton and Johnston Funeral Home, 
Benton. The Reverend Larry Bond will officiate. Interment will be in Masonic and 
Odd Fellows Cemetery. Visitation at the funeral home will be after 6 p.m. today. 
[Benton Evening News Tuesday, January 25, 1983]



BRUCE, JOHN A.
John A. Bruce, 63, of 410 Taft Street, Benton, died Friday at the Franklin Hospital, 
following an illness of three weeks. Mr. Bruce, a resident of Franklin County for 37 
years, was a laborer and a member of Local Union 529, Internation Union of Hod Carriers.
He leaves nine children; Mrs. Addie Gant, J. R. Bruce, Othel Bruce and Mrs. Mona Lee 
Snider, all of Burk, Idaho, Thomas Bruce, Warren Bruce, Randall Bruce, William Bruce 
and Aline Bruce, all of Benton, and four sisters and a brother; Mrs. Nora Treece, Mrs. 
Geneva Ezell, and Mrs. Martha Walker, Benton; Mrs. Mildren McYela and Clyde Bruce, both 
of California. Funeral services will be held Sunday at 2 p.m. at the Church of God on 
North McLeansboro Street in Benton, with the Reverend Jones officiating. Interment will 
be in Masonic and Odd Fellows cemetery. The body will lie in state at the Drake Funeral 
Home after 1 p.m. today. [The Benton Evening News Saturday, October 17, 1959]



BRUCE, IVAL
Benton
Mrs. Ival A. Bruce, 83, of 302 North Stotler Street, Benton, died today at Cockrum's 
Intermediate Care Home in Benton. Mrs. Bruce was a resident of Franklin County for 
58 years. She is survived by two daughters, Mrs. Monalee Snyder, Benton and Miss 
Aline Bruce, Chicago, and six sons, J.R. Bruce, Tom, Othel, Randall and William 
Bruce, all of Benton, and Warren Bruce, West Frankfort. She also leaves 16 grand-
children; six great grandchildren; two sisters, Mrs. Maybell Bell, Fred, Texas, 
and Mrs. Jewel Doerge, Minden, La., and two brothers, Earl Morris, Fred, Texas, 
and Edward Morris, Cullen, La. Her husband, John A. Bruce, died in 1959, while she 
was also preceded in death by a daughter, Mrs. Addie Gant, and her parents, William 
A. and Mallie Nickerson Morris. Funeral arrangements are incomplete at Hobbes-Johnson 
Funeral Home in Benton. [Benton Evening News Monday, June 14, 1982]





BRUCE, MARTHA
Mrs. Martha Bruce, 77, died this morning at the home of her daughter, Mrs. Rolla 
Walker, 612 West Washington street. She was a member of the Church of God on 
McLeansboro street. Surviving are the following children: John and Clyde Bruce, 
Benton; Mrs. Frank Treece, Mrs. John McElyea, Mrs. Walker, and Mrs. Bill Harben, 
Benton, Mrs. E. M. Drake, San Pedro, Calif., and Mrs. Byford Sanders, Logan. A brother, 
M. E. Griffith (sic), living in Kansas, also survives. The body will lie in state 
at the home of Mrs. Treece, 9th and Joplin streets, Benton. Funeral services will
be held Monday afternoon at 2 o'clock at the Church of God, with Rev. Wm. Brown 
officiating. Interment will be in the Masonic and Odd Fellows cemetery, under the 
direction of the Mitchell Funeral Home. [The Benton Evening News Saturday, April 
24, 1948] (Mrs. Bruce was born April 10, 1872, per Illinois death certificate 
#283-3192-39, and her maiden name was GRIFFIN)



BRUCE, OTHEL A.   22 May 1935  2 Dec 1985
Othel A. Bruce, 54, died Monday, December 2, 1985, at his home, 509 South Kentucky 
Street, Benton. Mr. Bruce was a retired carpenter, and was a veteran of the Korean 
Conflict. He was a lifelong resident of Franklin County, born May 22, 1931, to John 
A. and Ival Addie O. Morris Bruce. He is survived by two daughters, Mrs. Ginger Lee 
Flear and Miss Tina Bruce, both of Benton, and three sons, David Allen Bruce, Carbondale, 
Jimmy Bruce and Allen Bruce, both of Benton. He also leaves two grandchildren; two sisters, 
Mona Lee Snyder, Benton and Aline Bruce, Chicago, and five brothers, Thomas, Randall and 
William "Bill" Bruce, all of Benton; Warren Bruce, West Frankfort and J. R. Bruce. His 
parents and a sister, Addie Ofalia Gant preceded him in death. Graveside funeral services 
will be Wednesday at 1 p.m. at Masonic and Odd Fellows Cemetery, Benton. Visitation at 
Hobbs-Johnson Funeral Home will be Wednesday from 10 a.m. until 12:30 p.m.
[The Benton Evening News Tuesday, December 3, 1985]



BRUCE, WILLIAM HENRY
William Henry Bruce, 78, a retired coal miner, passed away yesterday after having 
been a resident of Benton for the past 25 years. He was a son of the late William 
and Anna Bruce, and was born in Kansas October 5, 1869. He was a member of the Church 
of God. Surviving are his widow and eight children; Mrs. Eva Drake, of Fresno, Calif.; 
John, Mrs. Nora Treece, Mrs. Mildred McElyea, Clyde, Mrs. Martha Walker, Mrs. Myrtle 
Reed and Mrs. Jennie Harbew, all of Benton. The body will lie in state at the home 
of his son-in-law, Raleigh Walker, 612 West Washington St., until the hour of funeral 
services, which will be held at the Walker home tomorrow afternoon at 2 o'clock.
Burial will be in the Masonic and Odd Fellows cemetery, under the direction of the 
Mitchell Funeral Home. [Benton Evening News Thursday, March 6, 1947]



BRUMMET, BERTHAL
The Pilot
Southern Pines, NC
Friday, November 17, 2000
Pinehurst, NC - Mr. Berthal Brummet, 81, of Pinehurst, NC, died Wednesday, November 
15, 2000 at his home. He was born in Ewing, Franklin County, Illinois, February 8, 1919,
the oldest son of George and Iva Brummet who had five sons and one daughter.
A beautiful, loving father and husband, he is survived by his wife, Ellen, a sister, 
Doris Kunkle, of Illinois, and four brothers: Lee Brummet of North Carolina. James 
Brummet, and Owen Brummet of Illinois  and, Dale Brummet of Georgia.
Berthal and Ellen first met at Illinois State University and were married shortly 
after graduation in 1941.  Their only son Randall died at age 18.
Soon after their marriage, Berthal entered the Navy and served three years in the 
Pacific as a Naval Air Navigator, flying blood in and taking the wounded out of the 
field.  Following the war, he entered Northwestern University, earning a Master's 
Degree in Chemistry.
His interest in science from an early age led him into a thirty-five year career in 
research and engineering.  First, as a research chemist and then as an industrial 
Vice President for Research and Engineering, he had several patents and research papers
published in his name.
He and his wife retired to Pinehurst, NC in 1986 after having been transferred many 
times during his professional career.  Whenever anyone asked where they were from, 
they always replied: the United States.
Funeral services will be held, Saturday, November 18, 2000 at 11:00 a.m. at the 
Village Chapel in Pinehurst, with Chaplain Ed Galloway officiating.  Graveside 
services will be in his home state of Illinois where he will be laid to rest beside 
his son, Randall Dayne, at Rose Cemetery in Bismarck on Tuesday, November 21, 1000 
at 2:00 p.m.
Boles Funeral Home of Pinehurst is in charge of arrangements.
[Submitted by: Sheila Cadwalader]



BRYANT, GEORGE EUGENE  
Benton 
George Eugene Bryant, 85, of Benton, died at 10:36 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 25, 1999, 
at the Cardinal Nursing Home in Energy. Funeral services will be at 11 a.m. Tuesday, 
at the Hobbs-johnson Funeral Home, with the Rev. Frank Trotter officiating. Burial 
will be in the Masonic & Odd Fellows Cemetery, Benton. Visitation will be from 9 
until 11 Tuesday at the funeral home. Mr. Bryant was born April 11, 1914, in 
Benton, the son of William and Anna (Denham) Bryant. He married the former Inez L. 
McNeal on March 6, 1934 and she survives. He was a retired coal miner, having worked 
at Old Ben #14, 21, and 24. He was a U.S. Army veteran and a member of the U.M.W.A. 
He was a past deacon of the East Benton Baptist Church and a member for 64 years. 
Survivors include his wife, Inez Bryant, McLeansboro; a son, Paul E. Bryant, Wheaton; 
a daughter, Mary Ann Morris, McLeansboro; three grandchildren, Cindi Cox, McLeansboro; 
Bryan Knight, Louisville, Ky.; Jennifer Scott, London, England; four great-grandchildren; 
two sisters, Louise Reynolds, Marion; and Virginia Shelford, Blairsville. 
He was preceded in death by his parents, two brothers, Virgil and LaDean Bryant. 
Memorial contributions may be made to the East Benton Baptist Church.



BRYANT, Mary Lynn Poe  
West Frankfort 
Mary Lynn (Poe) Bryant, 34, of 7716 Cambon Lake Road, died at 10 a.m., Saturday, 
June 12, 1999, east of Zeigler. Services will be held at 11 a.m. Tuesday, June 15, 
at Vantrease Funeral Home in Zeigler with Brother Ed Sapp officiating. Burial will 
be at Harrison Cemetery in Buckner. Visiting hours are after 9 a.m. Tuesday at the 
funeral home until the time of service. Mrs. Bryant was born Dec. 30, 1964, in Du Quoin, 
the daughter of Earl T. and Minnie (Armstrong) Poe. She married Everett Dean Bryant 
in 1998. He survives in Jefferson City, Mo. She had attended the First Christian Church 
in Zeigler. In addition to her husband, she is survived by her mother, Minnie
Poe of West Frankfort; two sisters and brothers-in-law, Susan and Thomas Chitwood of 
Dowell and Patty and Paul Hopkins of Benton; six brothers and three sisters-in law, 
Earl and Gilda Poe of Plumfield, Boyd and Ella Poe of Richmond, Ind., Charlie and 
Brenda Poe of West Frankfort, Bill Poe of Belton, Texas, Dean Poe of West Frankfort
and Gene Poe of Plumfield; several nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by 
her father.



BUCKHOLZ, PAULA 
Paula "Crickett' Buckholz, 50, of West Frankfort, passed away Wednesday, January
31, 2001 at 10:44 a.m. at her home. Paula was a special person in the eyes of her
family and many friends. She fought a long, hard battle in life. May she now 
enjoy her peace. Paula was a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day
Saints Foxcroft Ward at West Frankfort. She was born September 24, 1950 at 
Carbondale, the daughter of Kenneth and Opal Higginbotham. Surviving are her
parents, Kenneth and Opal Higginbotham of DeSoto; daughter, Shelley Dawne Hampton
of Ziegler; three sisters, Fayetta Chancey of DeSoto, Mary Davis of Zeigler and 
Levieta Fred of DeSoto; one brother, Charles McCarthy of DeSoto and three grand-
children, Kahree Kotie and Dakota. Paula was preceded by a daughter, Wendy Christene
George. Graveside services were held at 2 p.m. Friday, February 2 at Hillcrest 
Cemetery at Carterville with Brother Lewis Russell officiating. Riggin-Pillatsch
Funeral Home in Carterville was in charge of arrangements. 



BULLOCK, LULA 
Funeral services for Lula BULLOCK, 81, of Hillsboro and formerly of Christopher, 
IL, will be at 2:30 pm Thursday at the Gilbert Funeral Home in Christopher. Burial 
will be in Harrison Cemetery. Friends my call after 7 pm today at the funeral home.
Mrs. BULLOCK was born 16 Aug 1899 in Mulkeytown to Peter & Lucy MEZO HARRISON. 
She died Tuesday, 16 June 1981, in Hillsboro Hospital. She married Quince BULLOCK, 
who died in 1974. She was also preceded in death by her parents, two brothers & 
one sister. She was member of the First Baptist Church and the Order of Eastern 
Star in Christopher. Survivors include one daughter, Lila SWAIN of Hillsboro; one 
son, Harrison Eugene of Norwalk, Conn.; three grandchildren and six great-grandchildren.
[The Southern Illinoisan ~ June 17, 1981]



BURKHART, KATE ELLIOTT HICKMAN
MRS CARL BURKHART WAS CALLED TO HER REWARD MONDAY
(Benton newspaper    no date)
A veil of darkness and gloom overshadowed our city Monday evening when the sad news 
came that Mrs. Carl Burkhart had passed away at about 8 pm and we are yet so stunned 
that time only will reveal to us her absence from our midst.
Her going was so unexpected as she had only been sick with pneumonia a few days and 
was not thought to be seriously ill until the day before she died.
This is one of the saddest deaths that Benton has ever known for she leaves besides 
her devoted husband, their five children, the youngest being only three years old.   
Baby Kate will never know the unfaltering love of her namesake mother.
She had always been such a devoted, painstaking and instructive mother, her pride 
being in the upkeep of her home, the training of her children and the culture of 
herself; and yet she found ample time for noble work in her Masters vineyard.
In the spring of 1878 a baby girl came to gladden the home of Dr and Mrs. Z Hickman 
and she was named Kate Elliott.  Being the youngest of six children, she was called 
Pet by the whole family, a name that clung to her through all her school days and 
even in young womanhood.  Pet Hickman was the life of the Same Old Benton Girls Club.
She graduated from the Benton High School in 1898 and was married to Carl Burkhart 
of Marion, now cashier of the Benton State Bank, in 1900.  He being a member of the
Masonic Lodge here, she affiliated herself with The Order of the Easter Star and The 
White Shrine of Jerusalem.  She had been an officer of the Star several times and was
organist for both at the time of her death.  How often we have heard her say, Today 
prosperity and the presence of loved ones fills our cup with joy; tomorrow adversity and
sore bereavement casts us into the valley of sorrow.
She was also a member of the Benton woman's Club and literary department of the same 
known as The Self-Culture Class where her opinion was authority.  Next to her church
work she enjoyed these meetings most for her mind ran in literary channels and her
store of knowledge was never exhausted.  With it all she had a sense of humor that made
all around her enjoy her presence.  Members of these clubs attended the funeral service 
in a body.
Funeral services were conducted at the First Baptist church Wednesday afternoon, Revs 
Joseph L Meads and Samuel E Fisher officiating.  The church would not accommodate the
friends and relatives who came to pay their last tributes and the profusion of beautiful 
floral offerings sent by the church, Sunday School, Aid Society, Benton Womans Club,
Self Culture Class, Eastern Star, White Shrine, Masonic Orders, Knights of Pythias, 
Benton State Bank, First National Bank, Mercantile Bank and Trust Co., Benton township 
High School, Benton City Schools beside the relatives, neighbors and friends, manifested 
the high esteem in which she was held by all.
Interment followed the beautiful funeral services at the Masonic and Odd Fellows 
cemetery, the three brothers, two brothers in law and nephew acting as pallbearers.
Among those from out of town attending the funeral were Mrs. J M Burkhart, Miss Ruby 
Burkhart, will S Burkhart, Dr Ralph Burkhart, Jean Burkhart, Mr and Mrs L A Colp and
daughter, Miss Katherine, Miss Eva Young, Miss Florence Mercer, Miss Vivian Shirley 
and Prof B F Parr, all of Marion; Mrs. Robert Hall of St Louis and Albert Vancil of 
Carbondale.


The following obituary, prepared by Miss Nancy Browning, was read at the services:
Kate Elliott Hickman, daughter of Dr. Zachariah and Julia Johnson Hickman was born in 
Benton, IL May 30, 1878 and went home to God February 9, 1920.
She was graduated from Benton High School with the class of 1898 and was one of the 
editors of The Egyptian Star, the high school annual.
Early in life she was converted and joined the First Baptist Church, her devotion to 
which has been unwavering.  For years she was organist for church and Sunday School and 
her place was seldom vacant.
In 1900 she was married to Carl Burkhart, cashier of the Benton State Bank.  Of this 
marriage five children were born Marjorie, Ellen, George, Jean and baby Kate.  Three
brothers and a sister are also left to follow where she has lead, Mrs. Carrol Moore, 
Frank J, Robert E and George A.
One of the most beautiful, significant and comforting phrases is found in Psalms 127, 
He giveth His beloved sleep, and surely Kate Burkhart was one of Gods beloved.  As softly 
as the snowflakes fall Gods fingers touched her and she feel asleep.
This I be not afraid were Christs own words to his frightened disciples and as though 
Kate Burkhart heard his words, she said to those she loved just before her spirit took 
tits fight, I am not afraid.  She knew whom she had believed and was persuaded that He 
was able to keep that which she had committed unto Him.
Kate Burkhart is a worthy example of a mother who trains up her children in the nuture 
and admonition of the Lord and her joy was full when she saw them one by one converted and
join the church which she and they so much loved. She never shirked her duty and was never 
afraid to do what she believed to be right.  No case of destitution or distress was ever 
passed unheeded and many old people and friendless children will miss Kate Burkharts cheerful
words and timely gifts.  No worker of the church was every proposed that Kate Burkhart 
did not do more than her share.  Even in her last illness when the Mission Circle met 
she was unable to go but she did not forget to send her monthly offering as well as a 
contribution for the building fund.  No prayer meeting was complete if Kate Burkhart and 
some of her children were not there.
It was a beautiful picture of devoted motherhood when Kate Burkhart sat in her pew with 
the younger children about her, while Marjorie served as organist, as her mother had
before her.  Many have spoken of it as a living example which others might well follow.
In club work Kate Burkharts opinion was always valued and her fund of knowledge was a source 
of wonder to many who knew of her busy life.  To few is given the intelligence,
industry and broadmindedness of Kate Burkhart.
Her home was her castle and her children her jewels.  But her interest did not stop there.  
Her devotion to her father and mother and her aunt, who lived in the home during her 
childhood, was beautiful.  Her interests in church, in civic affairs, schools and affairs 
of state was in no way lessened by her devotion to her home.
Death comes and is met at every turn with signs and groans and heartaches but Kate Burkhart
met death unafraid for she had an unfaltering faith in Him who has conquered death and the 
grave and He had said to her, I am the resurrection and the Life.  She now has a house not 
made with hands, eternal in the Heavens.  What wonder that she neared the dark portals she 
had gleams of the fadeless morning and could say in truth I am not afraid.
Kate Burkhart is not dead.  She still lives in the lives of her husband and her children, in 
the lives of those whom she held dear and of those who love her.  Her presence will be missed 
in every circle in which she moved and most of all in the church and in her home.  By her 
influence, kind deeds and loving words will live forever.
[Submitted by: Sheila Cadwalader]



BURKITT, HENRY W.

submitted by: Ronald CRAMER



BURTON, REV. W.R. (RILEY)                1963
Rev. W. R. BURTON, 82 of Whittington, retired minister, died at his home after an 
illness of a year.  A native of Franklin Co, born Sep 21, 1881 and was a member of 
Rescue Free Will Baptist Church at Whittington.  He was preceded in death by a 
brother and a sister.  He is survived by his wife , former Bertha ROTRAMMEL, two 
sons; Blake of Whittington, Dwight Burton of Lincoln Park, Michigan. Three daughters, 
Mae NEWTON (Velt) of Carlsbad, N.M.; Pauline DROLL (Lawrence) of Chandler, Ind and 
Minnie FLYNN of Champaign. 14 grandchildren and 14 great grandchildren.  three brothers, 
Frank  of Ina, Otto  of Whittington and Coy of Rosewell, N. M. Three sisters, Addie 
PIPER  and Grace SKINNER (Vance) both of Mt. Vernon and Essie HAMILTON (Jess)  of 
Whittington  Funeral services will be a 2 p.m. Friday at Rescue Church with Rev. 
Marsh HARPOOL officiating.  Burial will be in Shiloh Cem in Whittington.  Body will 
lie instate after 2 p.m. Thursday at the Johnston Funeral Home in Whittington.
[Submitted by: Sheila Cadwalader]



BURTON, SOPHRONIA  
Decatur 
Sophronia Burton, 88, of Decatur, and a former Whittington resident, died at 
6 a.m. Wednesday, June 9, 1999,at St. Mary's Hospital in Decatur. She was born 
in East St. Louis, on May 12, 1911 to Pete and Bertha Kirk. Mrs. Burton was a 
member of the Rescue Free Will Baptist Church in Whittington. She was married 
to Lloyd Burton. He preceded her in death. She is survived by one son, Bill 
Burton of Decatur; four daughters, Jean Shelton of Elgin, Joan Beasley of Benton, 
Sally Atchison of Decatur, Shirley Kagel and husband Larry of Elgin; five grandchilden, 
Sharon, David, Holly, Brandon and Monte; thirteen grandchildren; four great-great-
grandhildren; four children whom she babysat, Debbie and Steve King of South Elgin, 
Jennifer and Nason Buttz of Decatur; one sister, Ky Fitzgerrell of Benton; one half 
sister Norma Dunbar of Ina. Mrs. Burton was peceded in death by her parents, husband, 
one grandson, Mike and by two sisters. Funeral services will be held a 1 p.m. Saturday, 
June 12, at the Morton & Johnston Funeral Home in Benton with Eric Mowry officiating. 
Burial will be in the Shiloh Cemetery in Whittington. Friends may call from
6 to 9 p.m. on Friday to the Morton & Johnston Funeral Home in Benton.



BURTON, WILLIAM DWIGHT 'BILL'
Formerly of Whittington
William Dwight "Bill" Burton, 90, of Lincoln Park, Mich., died Saturday, March 10, 
2007.
Services will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, March 17, at the Johnston Funeral Home 
in Whittington, with the Rev. David Shores officiating. Burial will be in Shiloh 
Cemetery in Whittington. Friends may call from 6 to 8 p.m. Friday to the funeral home.
For those who wish, memorials may be made to a charity of the donor's choice.
He was born Dec. 18, 1916, in Whittington, the son of the Rev. William Riley and 
Bertha Burton. He lived in Franklin County during his youth. Following his marriage, 
he worked as an assistant manager at Woolworth's.
Mr. Burton served as an Army staff sergeant during World War II, in the Pacific 
Theatre. He lived and worked in the Detroit, Mich., area for Chrysler Corporation, 
retiring in 1975. He was active in the Masonic Lodge.
Survivors include three sons, John Burton and wife, Shirley, of Mattoon, James 
Burton and wife, Linda, of Trenton, Mich., and Dr. Whitney Burton of Hillsboro, 
Ore.; two daughters, Martha Patrick and husband, John, of Duncansville, Pa., and 
Barbara Tesnovich and husband, Bob, of Wyandotte, Mich.; three grandchildren, Brent 
Burton and Jeffery Burton, both of Trenton, Mich., and Sara Painter and husband, 
Scott, of Rockford; a step-grandson, Steve Doerr and wife, LaLonna, of Pocahontas; 
a great-granddaughter; a great-grandson; five step-great-grandchildren; and a 
sister-in-law, Phyllis Smith, of Crestwood.
Mr. Burton was preceded in death by his loving wife, Elizabeth; his parents; three 
sisters, Mae Newton, Pauline Droll and Minnie Flynn; and a brother, Blake Burton.
Published: Thursday, March 15, 2007  Benton Evening News
[Submitted by: Sheila Cadwalader]



BUTCHER, FRANK  
Former Resident, Dies at Herrin
Frank Butcher, 74, a former resident of this city, died Saturday night at
his home near the Herrin cemetery.  He had been ill two years and recently
suffered another stroke.
Funeral services were conducted at the Herrin Second Baptist church Tuesday
afternoon by Rev. A.N. Sanders and burial was in the Herrin cemetery.
Mr. Butcher a retired coal miner, was born April 7, 1877 in Jackson County
a son of William and Eliza Butcher.  He had lived near Herrin 24 years.  He
was a member of the Second Baptist church and Local Union 2678  He leaves
his wife Ethel, and a son Charles of Howell Mich.