JAMES F. SAXBERRY - Payson, Ill., Nov. 2 1951 - Funeral services for James F. Saxbery, 85, of 718 Monroe, Quincy, will be held Sunday afternoon at 2 in the Cosgrove funeral home here, conducted by the Rev. J. R. McAllister. Burial will be in the Payson cemetery. Mr. Saxbery died Wednesday night in his home. He was born Jan. 1, 1866, in New Canton, a son of William and Lucy Davis Saxbery. (My note- Should read James not William) Surviving are a son, William Saxbery of Quincy; two daughters, Mrs. Florence Allensworth of Durham, MO., and Mrs. Lucy Gardner of Maywood, Mo.; 15 grandchildren and 10 greatgrandchildren. Another notice in unknown paper - Saxberg-Funeral services for James F. Saxberg, 718 Monroe, Quincy, Ill., formerly of New Canton, Ill., will be held Sunday afternoon at 2:00 o'clock in the Cosgrove Funeral Home, Payson, Ill. Interment in Payson cemetery. Friends invited. Friends may call at the funeral home Saturday evening and Sunday until time of services
Contributed by Rosemary Reeves

JANET SCHEWE , 78, of Pittsfield died Thursday, July 9, 2009) at the Pittsfield Manor. She was born June 21, 1931 in Bedford, Ind. daughter of the late Lester and Ada M. Plank Sparks. Surviving is a daughter, Pam MacDowell and husband Douglas of Lafayette, La.; a son, Daniel Scheweand wife Dana of North East, Md.; four grandchildren, Travis MacDowell of Lafayette, Zachary Schewe of Southampton, N.J.,and Nicholas and Emma Nichole Schewe both of North East,; a brother, Harold Sparks of Boca Raton, Fla.; and several nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents; and a sister-in-law, Cammie Sparks. Mrs. Schewe was a graduate of Alton High School in Alton, and attended nursing school at St. Luke's School of Nursing in St. Louis, Mo. She was a surgical nurse at Illini Hospital in Pittsfield, for many years and later became a volunteer at the hospital. She was a member of Bridge Club and Book Club in Pittsfield and assisted with Pike County Meals on Wheels. She was an avid Cardinal Baseball fan. Funeral services were held at 6 p.m. Tuesday, July 14, at the Airsman-Hires Funeral Home in Pittsfield. Burial were held at 1 p.m. Wednesday, July 15, at Valhalla Cemetery in Godfrey. Visitation was held from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. Tuesday at the funeral home
Contributed by Billie Browning

HANORA (HICKEY) SHANAHAN , daughter of Mr. and Mrs. John Hickey was born in Ireland, County of Cork, July 25, 1841, and died at her home in El Dara Illinois, Dec. 2, 1908 at 10 o'clock, aged 67 years 4 months and 7 days. The funeral was preached Friday at 10 a.m. at the M.E. Church by Rev. Hogan and the remains were laid to rest in the Hornback Cemetery. Miss Hickey was married to Michael Shanahan in the year 1863 in Ireland after which they came to this country. Eleven children were the fruit of this union, six of whom are living while the other five, two boys and three girls died in infancy. The living are John, Michael, Ella, Mrs. Nancy Browning of El Dara and Mrs. Mary Phebus of Thornbury, Texas all of whom were present to pay the last tribute to their beloved mother. Beside the loving children, the deceased leaves a sorrowing husband and nine grand-children, seven girls and two boys to mourn their loss. She had two brothers and one sister, and if living their whereabouts are unknown. Mrs. Shanahan was a devoted wife, affectionate mother and a kind neighbor, willing to help the needy and make a pleasant and happy home. She will be sadly missed by all.
Source: Rootsweb Message Board 4/10/2005 Obituary Date: December 2 1908 Newspaper published in: Barry

KEITH E. SHANAHAN , 86, of Baylis, IL passed away Friday, August 20, 2010 at the Illini Community Hospital ER in Pittsfield. Born May 8, 1924 near El Dara, IL, he was the son of Virgil M. and Emma Ross Shannahan. Keith married Mary Ellen Dolbeare June 28, 1947 in Hannibal, MO. Keith worked for the Wabash & Norfolk Southern Railroad for 38 years as a foreman and track inspector. He was a member of the United Methodist Church of Baylis, IL and a member of the New Salem Lodge #218 A.F. & A.M. He enjoyed traveling, especially out West where Keith and Mary Ellen celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary in 1977 at Shoshone Lodge near the East entrance of Yellowstone National Park and celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary at Estes Park, Colorado. Keith also enjoyed reading, gardening and his grandchildren. He is survived by his wife, Mary Ellen of Baylis, IL and sons, Gary (Betty) Shannahan of Mt. Zion, IL and Mike (Paulette) Shannahan of Sprague, WA along with five grandchildren, Kelli Shannahan of Chicago, Ryan (Janelle) Shannahan of Avery, Idaho, Hillary, Jennifer and Corey Shannahan of Sprague, WA and two great grandchildren, Emma & Noah, and several cousins. Keith was preceded in death by a grandson Mark Shannahan. Services are being held at 11 a.m., Tuesday, August 24, 2010 at the Niebur Funeral Home in Pittsfield with Rev. Dave Kelly and Rev. Al Laird officiating. The New Salem Masonic Lodge #218 A.F. & A.M. will hold Masonic services at 10:30 a.m. at the funeral home prior to the funeral service. Visitation will be held from 9 a.m until 11 a.m. on Tuesday at the Niebur Funeral Home. Interment will be in the Pittsfield West Cemetery. Memorials are suggested to the United Methodist Church of Baylis or New Salem Lodge #218 A.F. & A.M. Condolences may be sent to the family at info@nieburfh.com This e-mail address is being protected from spambots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it . Niebur Funeral Home in Pittsfield is handling the arrangements.
Contributed by Billie Browning

PAUL DEAN SHANKS , 74, of Barry, died Sunday, Jan. 8, 2012, at Blessing Hospital in Quincy. Paul Dean was born Sept. 7, 1937, in Bedford, a son of Claude and Ethel Smith Shanks. His first marriage was to Peggy Bratsch and she preceded him in death. He later married Judith Ann Fhurman. Paul Dean was a union painter for International Brotherhood of Painters and Allied Trade Local #90 and had worked at the Shell Refinery at Wood River, and other nearby locations. He served in the United States Marines during peace time. He loved fishing and hunting, mushrooming, ginseng, and coon hunting. He was a Mark Martin NASCAR fan and a St. Louis Cardinals fan. He is survived by his ex-spouse, Judy Mendez of Louisiana, Mo.; sons, Tim Shanks of Barry; Paul (Carol) Shanks of Barry; Shannon Shanks of Louisiana; and daughters, Melissa (Ron) Bland of Brighton and Charity (Steve) Campbell of Quincy. Also surviving are brothers and sisters, Earl (Suk) Shanks of Rosepine, La., Darrell (Barb) Shanks of Omaha, Neb., Claudia (Earl) Carver of Fisher, La. and Verna Lea Hammons of Many, La.; 12 grandchlren and one great-grandchild. Several nieces and nephews, many cousins, and an aunt and uncle, Don and Leona Boren of Pittsfield, survive. He was preceded in death by a sister, Shirley Lewing, a brother, James Bryan Shanks, a son in infancy, Jerry Dean Shanks and his first wife Peggy Bratsch. A visitation was held Tuesday, Jan. 10, at the Niebur Funeral Chapel in Barry, from 4 p.m. until 8 p.m. Funeral services will be held Thursday, Jan. 12, at 11 a.m. at the Shady Grove Church of God in Many, with Bro. James Hickman and Bro. Donnie Paul Lewing officiating. A visitation will be held from 10 a.m. until 11 a.m. prior to the service. Interment will be in the Shady Grove Cemetery in Many, with graveside military rites accorded by the Ft. Polk Military Detail. Memorials are suggested to be made to the Shady Grove Cemetery, c/o of Niebur Funeral Chapel in Barry. Condolences may be sent to the family at niebur@adams.net The Niebur Funeral Chapel in Barry is handling the arrangements.
Contributed by Billie Browning

ETHEL (MARDELL) SHANKS , 88, of Many, LA, died March 25, 2009, at Sabine Medical Center. She was born Feb. 1, 1921, in Pearl, a daughter of Ernest and Verna Kessinger Smith. She married Rev. Claude Shanks and he preceded her in death. She is survived by three daughters, Shirley (husband Doyle) Lewing of Fort Jesup, LA, Verna Hammons of Many, LA, and Claudia (husband Earl) Carver of Fisher, LA; three sons, Paul Shanks of Barry; Earl (wife Sang) Shanks of Rosepine, LA, and Darrell (wife Barbara) Shanks of Shreveport, LA; two sisters, Emma Patton of Pittsfield and Leona Boren of Detroit; 19 grandchildren; 31 great- grandchildren; four great- great-grandchildren; and a host of nieces, nephews and friends. She was preceded in death by her husband; parents; and a son James Bryan Funeral services were March 28 at Lewing Chapel in Many, LA, with Rev. Donnie Paul Lewing and Pastor Derrick Joyce officiating. Pallbearers were Shawn Shanks, Timothy Shanks, Shannon Shanks, Marty Carver, Casey Lewing, Bryan Robertson and Curt Sargent. Burial was at Pine Knott Cemetery. Warren Meadows Funeral Home in Many, LA, was in charge of arrangements
Contributed by Billie Browning

KAROLYN J. (BEATTY) SHEPPARD , 76 of rural Pittsfield, died Friday, April 24, 2009 at Illini Community Hospital in Pittsfield. Born April 3, 1933 at New Salem, she was the daughter of Cicero C. Beatty and Mary Jane Curless Beatty. She married John W. Sheppard Sept. 20, 1953 at the New Salem United Methodist Church. Karolyn was a member of the New Salem United Methodist Church and attended the Time Community Church. She attended Western Illinois University at Macomb, was a fifty-year member and an officer of the Pike County Home Extension, an active member and leader of the Pike County 4-H Foundation, member of the Order of the Eastern Star and an officer and organizer of the Pike County Color Drive Committee. She enjoyed scrapbooking on family genealogy, tole painting, flower gardening, traveling and visiting historical sites, reading and puzzles. Karolyn greatly enjoyed spending time with her grandchildren. Karolyn was the beloved wife of John, and the beloved mother of five sons and three daughters: Robert (Linda) Sheppard, Pittsfield, Tom Sheppard, Pittsfield, Bill (Martha) Sheppard, Pearl, Jim Sheppard, Pittsfield, and Ron Sheppard, Carlinville, Mrs Sandy (Larry) Wigington, Pittsfield, Mrs. Mary (Dave) Lagemann, Pearl and Mrs Kathy (Tom) Scranton, Milton. Twelve grandchildren and four great-grandchildren also survive. Funeral services were Monday, April 27, at 10:30 a.m. at the Niebur Funeral Home in Pittsfield with Rev. Rick Musgrove and Rev. Jerry Edison officiating. Burial was at the Pittsfield West Cemetery.
Contributed by Billie Browning - Pike Press

JAMES WILLIAM SHIVE , 54, of Bloomington, formerly of Macomb, died Wednesday, June 3, 2009 at Bromen Medical Center in Normal. He was born March 9, 1955 in Macomb to James Willliam, Sr. and Betty Jean Ross Shive. He married Mary Funk. He later married Leanne Trotter at the Western Illinois Union in Macomb on Nov. 21, 1998. She survives. Also surviving are two sons, Jason Christopher Shive and Jeremy Robert Shive, both of Bloomington; his mother, Betty Jean Shive of Pittsfield and one brother, Steven Gene Shive of Las Vegas, Nev. He was preceded in death by his father and one brother, Daniel Lee Shive. He lived in Macomb and has lived in Bloomington for the last 30 years. He served in the Illinois National Guard serving in Panama and Desert Storm. He did security work and was a Spanish translator for the IRS. Graveside services were held at 3 p.m. Saturday, June 6, at Pennington Point Cemetery in New Salem Township West of Adair. There was no visitation. Clugston-Tibbitts Funeral Home in Macomb was in charge of arrangements.
Contributed by Billie Browning

JOHN C. SHIVE , 75 of Virginia passed away early Monday morning March 8, 2010 at Memorial Medical Center. He was born February 11, 1935 near Milton the son of the late Robert Ashby and Mary Nicholson Shive. He married Shirley Bryant May 5, 1963. He was a 1952 graduate of Winchester High School where he played football. He served in the US Army stationed in Europe. He returned to Scott County to farm. He then worked for many years as a truck driver and retired from Bluff Springs Farmers Elevator. He loved to read, he was a Cubs fan and enjoyed fishing and watching his grandchildren play baseball. He also was an amateur photographer teaching himself those skills during his service in the army. Surviving is his wife Shirley at home in Virginia. Two daughters Teresa (Terri) Rogers of Virginia and Amie Romano (husband Andy) of Las Vegas, NV, a granddaughter Brie Rogers of Virginia and two grandsons Anthony and Nicholas Romano of Las Vegas, two step grandsons Xavier Rogers and Darrius Williams of Virginia. Three brothers Richard “Dick� (Ethel) Shive of Winchester, Joe (Mary Mae) Shive of White Hall, Jack (Janice) Shive of Galesburg, six sisters Vera Havens of Alsey, Frances Giger of Pittsfield, Betty (Clifford) Wilder of Pittsfield, Alice (Duane) Guth of Gridley, Jane (Harlan) Nevius of Peoria, and Norma Jean (A.C.) Reel of Pittsfield as well as many nieces nephews and cousins. Preceding him in death were two brothers Bill and Tom Shive and a sister Mabel Chapman and two sons John C. and Daren Shive Funeral services will be held at 2:30 PM Friday March 12, 2010 at the Coonrod Funeral Home in Winchester. Burial will be in the Winchester City Cemetery where military rites will be conducted. Friends may call at the funeral home on Friday from 1:30 until the time of the service
Contributed by Billie Browning

BEVERLY A. SIDWELL , 50, of Pittsfield passed away Saturday, August 28, 2010 at Blessing Hospital in Quincy, IL. Beverly was born in Pittsfield, IL on May 31, 1960, a daughter to Roy M. “Pat” and Helen DeJaynes Helm. She married Roger Sidwell at the Calvary Baptist Church in Pittsfield on June 4, 1977. She was a member of the Pittsfield Assembly of God Church, a member of Ann Horton’s Sunday school class, helped with Royal Rangers and “Kid’s Church”, the Women’s Ministry at church, and bowled on the Sidwell Construction Tuesday afternoon bowling league. She greatly enjoyed helping and working in her church and spending time with her kids and grandkids. She is survived by her mother, Mrs Helen Helm of Pittsfield, her husband, Roger Sidwell of Pittsfield, a son, Jeremy Sidwell of Pittsfield, and two daughters, Amy Sidwell (companion, Justin Grammer) of Nebo, IL and Ashley Sidwell of Pittsfield, four grandchildren, Jacob Seal, Kaleb Sidwell, Blayne Sidwell and Madison Grammer. Brother, Larry Helm of Springfield, MO and sisters, Marilyn (Randy) Gress of Milton, IL and Sharon (Bruce) Waggoner of Baylis, IL also survive Beverly. She was preceded in death by her father in 1997. Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, September 1, 2010 at 10:30 a.m. at the Pittsfield Assembly of God Church with Rev. Quentin Beard officiating. Interment will be in the Greenpond Cemetery near Pearl, IL. Visitation will be held Tuesday, August 31, 2010 from 4 p.m. until 8 p.m. at the Assembly of God Church in Pittsfield. Memorials are suggested to the Women’s Ministry of the Assembly of God Church, c/o of Niebur Funeral Home or can be sent to the church.
Contributed by Billie Browning

CARRIE L. (CLONINGER) SIDWELL , 77 of Pittsfield, died Sunday, April 3, 2011, at her residence. Carrie was born in Pearl, Oct. 20, 1934, a daughter to Benjamin L. and Rachel V. Turnbaugh Cloninger. Carrie and William Schlieper were married in 1952 and he preceded her in death in 1952. She married Leland William Sidwell Aug. 4, 1954 and he preceded her in death Nov. 20, 1998. In her earlier years, Carrie worked in the assembly line as a machine operator at the Olin Corporation in Alton. She enjoyed crocheting and playing Bingo and going to the “Boat” in Alton, and LaGrange, Mo. She is survived by her sons Benny Schlieper of Pittsfield, and Delbert Sidwell of Warden; two daughters, Kay (Ben) Barnes of Kuttawa, Ky. and Sheila Vincent of Bunker Hill; nine grandchildren and 25 great grandchildren. A brother, Leo (Anita) Cloninger of Eddyville, Ky. and a sister, Daisy McEuen of Chatham, also survive. Carrie was preceded in death by a brother, Luther Cloninger, four sisters, Lucille Stewart, Edith Daniels, Dolly Cloninger and Eileen Hardwick. Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m., Thursday, April 7, at the Niebur Funeral Home in Pittsfield with Rev. Jason Barnes and Bro. Wilson Ramsey officiating. Interment will be in the Greenpond Cemetery near Pearl. A visitation will be held from twelve (noon) until time of service at the Niebur Funeral Home. Memorials are suggested to the Blessing Hospice of Pike County or the Greenpond Cemetery
Contributed by Billie Browning

HORTON L. SIDWELL , 80, of Pearl died Aug. 13, 2009, at Springfield Memorial Hospital in Springfield. Harland was born April 7, 1929 a son of Charles W. and Lela Sorrels Sidwell. He married Mary Jo Doyle March 26, 1955 in Pittsfield. She preceded him in death Dec. 4, 1994. He was a member of the Farmers Ridge Church of Christ and served in the U.S. Army during the Korean Conflict. Before retiring, he was a meat cutter for Oscar Meyer in Beardstown and was still active as a livestock farmer near Pearl. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, farming and raising cattle. His greatest pleasure was spending time with his kids and grandkids and writing poetry. He enjoyed visiting and reminiscing with family and friends about the "good ole days". Surviving are three children, Jeff (Rose) Sidwell of Pearl, Janice (Rex) Swartz and Joyce (Danny) Piper, both of Pittsfield; eight grandchildren; six great grandchildren; and one sister, Mrs Charlene Clendenny of Mozier. His wife, three brothers, Wayne, Charles L. and Leland Sidwell, preceded Harlan in death. Funeral services were held Monday, Aug. 17, at 11 a.m. at the Niebur Funeral Home in Pittsfield with Bro. Wilson Ramsey officiating. Burial was in the Hess Cemetery near Pearl with military rites accorded by the Pittsfield American Legion Post 152. A lunch for family and friends was served at the Pearl Community Center after the internment. Visitation was held Sunday, Aug. 16 from 4 to 8 p.m. at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests that memorials be made to the Hess Cemetery or the Pearl Community Center. Condolences may be sent to the family at info@nieburfh.com Niebur Funeral Home in Pittsfield is handling the arrangements.
Contributed by Billie Browning - Pike Press

MARVIN SIDWELL , 80, a retired farmer and resident of Pittsfield, died...Monday (April 13, 1981) in Illini Community Hospital in Pittsfield. He was born July 16, 1900 in Calhoun County, a son of William and Fannie White Sidwell. He married Viola E. Waite Aug. 11, 1951, in Hardin. She survives. Mr. Sidwell was employed by King Milling Company of Pittsfield and was a member of the Pittsfield United Church of Christ. He is also survived by two sons, Richard of Plainville, and John of Dallas, Texas, a step-son, Lewis Orr of Pittsfield; a brother, Charles of Pearl; sister, Mrs. Floy Patrick of Clarksville, Mo.; and five grandchildren. He was preceded in death by a brother and a grandchild. Services will be Thursday in the Lummis Funeral Home in Pittsfield, conducted by the Rev. Wendy Heffington. Burial will be in Hinman Chapel Cemetery near Pittsfield.
Contributed by Virginia Gorton Bonne - [unidentified 1981 clipping]

SARAH PRYSELLA (HAYES) SIDWELL , was born March 24, 1836 in Milton, Ill., departed this life Feb 20, 1919 at her home in Nebo, Ill. She was the daughter of Rob't B. and Margaret Hayes. She was one of a family of seven; five sisters and one brother. She was the last survivor of the family. She was married to John Sidwell of Calhoon, Ill. Sept 21, 1880. Her husband preceded her in death in 1892. She joined the Christian Church in early life and lived a consistent member She leaves one son Alvis Hayes, of St. Louis, eight grand-children, seven treat-grand children, several nieces and nephews besides a host of friends to mourn her departure. Funeral services were conducted in the Christian Church Saturday Feb 22, by Rev. W. H. Cannon. Those attending the funeral from a distance were: Mr. Alvis Hayes, Mesdames Irene Pagan and Wm J. Murphy of St. Louis, Mattie Driver of Greenfield, Mr. and Mrs. John Goodwin and Mrs. C. A. Ream of White Hall, Mrs. Will Sedberry of Pittsfield.
Contributed by Virginia Gorton Bonne - [Nebo Banner, 26 Feb 1919]

N. EILEEN SIEMENS , age 83, of Liberty Village in Pittsfield and formerly of Manhattan, died Sunday, Feb. 15, 2009, at Liberty Village. She was born June 16, 1925 in Ilasco, Mo., the daughter of Marvin F. and Minerva O. Goewey Barnes. She married George Siemens Jan. 18, 1949 and George died Nov. 27, 1980. Eileen was a caregiver for the elderly. She enjoyed crocheting, attending music shows and going on senior citizen outings. She was a member of the Pittsfield United Methodist Church. Survivors include a sister, Doris Thomas of New Salem; four brothers, Merlin Barnes of Peoria, Jesse Barnes of Jonesboro, Tenn., Terry Barnes of Elverta, Calif. and Leo Barnes of Manhattan; also four step grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, two brothers, Fred and Frank Barnes and by two step daughters. Funeral services were held Tuesday, Feb. 17 at 6 p.m. at Lummis Funeral Home in Pleasant Hill conducted by Rev. A1 Laird. Visitation was from 4 p.m. until time of services Tuesday at the funeral home. Graveside services will be held today, Wednesday at 2 p.m. at Woodlawn Memorial Park in Joliet. Memorials may be made to the charity or organization of the donor's choice. Lummis Funeral Hone in Pleasant Hill is handling arrangements.
Contributed by Billie Browning

SUSAN (WATSON) SIVERT , 72, died Monday, Jan. 12, 2009 in Carrollton, Texas. She was born July 27, 1936 in Jacksonville, a daughter of Kenneth (Friday) and Shirley I. (Jean) Reavis Watson. She married Richard Sivert in Pittsfield Dec. 27, 1963. He preceded her in death in 1993. Susan was a 1954 graduate of Pittsfield High School. She attended Western Illinois University and graduated from McConnell Airline School in Minneapolis, Minn. She worked for American Airlines and later for Braniff Airlines. She was an American Red Cross Water Safety Instructor and had been very active in the Parent Teacher Organization of Mary Immaculate School in Carrollton. She is survived by one daughter, Cara, of Dallas, Texas; two sister, Becky Acuff of Pittsfield and Nancy (Mrs. Jeff) Bocher of Richfield, Wisc.; three nieces, Rebecca (Mrs. Sean) Murphy of Kirksville, Mo., Noel (Mrs. Carl) Rajski of Niles and Adrienne (Mrs. Liam) Cormier of Fort Polk, La.; and eight great nephews and one great niece. Graveside services were held Tuesday, Jan. 20, 2009 and burial was in Hilltop Memorial Park in Carrollton
Contributed by Billie Browning

DOROTHY SKINNER , was a lovely woman, generous of spirit and kind of heart. Her bright eyes and warm smile illuminated the lives of her family and many friends. Dorothy died at Valley Nursing Home Dec. 17, 2008. Dorothy was born in Rockport Jan. 29, 1930, to Henry and Marie Dober Yokem, the second of four children. Sisters Mildred and Donna and brother Marion remained extremely dear and close throughout her life. After high school, Dorothy moved to Billings to live with her aunt Ruth and uncle Hooley Lewis. A pretty teenage farm girl from Pittsfield, she met a strapping handsome baseball player from California and feel deeply in love. Jack and "Dottie" were married in 1948, with a reception in the home of Dave McNally's mother. Their love endured for 57 years. The Skinners were great sports fans and rarely missed a Billings high school basketball game or baseball game at Cobb Field. After many years of enjoyable work as a bank teller, Dorothy retired from US Bank and joined her husband Jack as a volunteer at Deaconess Billings Clinic. In 1999, Dorothy underwent a desperately needed liver transplant at the University of Washington Medical Center. A laurel of thanks goes to the anonymous donor who allowed her to live for many more years. Dorothy was always very proud of the fact that although neither she nor Jack attended college, all three of their children, Gary, Corby and Jackie, graduated with university degrees. She took great pleasure in returning to Illinois for the Pittsfield Community High School reunions and to visit with her sisters Donna and Mildred and their families. As a widow, Dorothy met widower Louis Brueggemann at Autumn Springs Retirement Home in 2006 and they spent many hours together in comfort and joy. Dorothy is preceded in death by her husband Jack, who passed away in 2005. She is survived by eldest son, Gary Skinner and wife Anita Thelen of Nine Miles Falls, Wash.; Corby Skinner of Billings; and daughter Jackie Corbally and her husband Bill of Coeur d'Alene, Idaho. Grandchildren include Trevor, Corey, Kyle and Luke Skinner and Jason Corbally. Dorothy was blessed with six great-grandchildren. Michelotti-Sawyers have arranged a private family burial. A celebration of Dorothy Skinner's life will be held Saturday, May 2, 2009, so that relatives, family and friends can gather to honor her life with music, reminiscences, laughter and good cheer. Thumbprint cookies and mincemeat pie will be served.
Contributed by Billie Browning

MARY "ELIZABETH" (HARVEY) SKINNER , 78, a prominent Griggsville resident and wife of funeral director J.R. "Bob" Skinner, died at 8:44 p.m. Thurs. (February 11, 1988) in Illini Community Hospital in Pittsfield. Mrs. Skinner was born February 9, 1910. in Griggsville, a daughter of Ray W. and Ellen Brierley Harvey. She married J.R. "Bob" Skinner, June 28, 1941, in Bowling Green, Mo. He survives. Mrs. Skinner taught grade school for eight years in Griggsville and was active with her husband at Skinner Funeral Home from 1941 to 1986. She attended MacMurray College in Jacksonville. She was a member of Cornelia Chapter O.E.S. for 50 years. Survivors include her husband, five cousins, Mrs. Ed (Mariam) Lemon, Santa Ana, Calif., Robert Conroy of Vista, Calif., Beverly A. Ball of Castro Valley, Calif., and Mrs. Russell (Martha June) Carter of Schenectady, N.Y. Preceding her in death was an infant brother. Services were conducted at 10 a.m. in St. James Episcopal Church in Griggsville by the Rev. Garrett Clanton and the Rev. Eugene A. Stormer. Burial was in Griggsville Cemetery. Hansen-Spear Funeral Home of Quincy is in charge of arrangements. Memorials may be made to the St. James Episcopal Church.
Contributed by Virginia Gorton Bonne - [The Paper, Barry, 17 Feb 1988]

DAVID SNEEDEN , 82, of Jacksonville and formerly of Pittsfield, died Sunday evening, July 14, 1996 at Passavant Area Hospital. He was born Aug. 15, 1913, in Detroit, the son of E. Waide and Bessie Lightle Sneeden. He is survived by his sister, Mary E. Sneeden of Jacksonville, and two nephews, Dr. K.J. Kobberman of Springfield and Dr. Tom Kobberman of Liberty, Mo. He was preceded in death by a sister, Grace Kobberman. Mr. Sneeden was a farmer. Graveside services will be held at 3:30 p.m. Wednesday at the Pittsfield West Cemetery. No formal visitation will be held. Memorials are suggested to the Centenary Church Building Fund or to the Activity Fund at Skyview Terrace. Cody and Son Memorial Home is in charge of arrangements.
Contributed by Billie Browning

SAM SPICER , aged about 70, a farm laborer and a bachelor was found dead this morning at the home of Mr and Mrs Jas Fletcher at 602 Madison street. Mr Spicer came over from Butler Saturday and went to the ranged to stay until this morn Fletcher rooming house and ar ing (? quite strange, like the lines were out of order) He was apparently in good health and talked with ing (? lines out of order, again). He asked to be called at Mr and Mrs Fletcher last evening 6 o'clock this morning and made no response and Mr Fletcher thinking he was still asleep went on to work. Mrs Fletcher could not rouse him later so she called Victor Fletcher who pried open the door and found him dead. His body was still warm when found. The body was taken to Dood's Undertaking parlors where Coroner Boyd held an inquest. As far as could be learned Spicer worked on farms near Butler, Hillsboro, and Gillespie. He is believed to have relatives in Pike county.
[Litchfield Daily Union, Monday, May 28, 1928 - Submitted by: Lynn Boyd Reener (Kim Torp) ]

HENRY STADLER - a barber formerly of Beardstown, died of Apoplexy on Tuesday at Mt. Sterling. He was a witness in the murder trial here last week, and came near dying while at the Mansion House in this place. He is a victim of a love of strong drink.
He Pike County Democrat 1869

VIRGINIA ANN (SUTTON) STEINBERG , died at her home in Venice, Fla. on June 16, 1997. She was born Feb. 21, 1940 to Everett and Hattie A. Neese Sutton in Pleasant Hill. She was educated in the Pleasant Hill schools and graduated from Gem City College, Quincy. She married Tony Steinberg Dec. 28, 1966 at the Pleasant Hill Baptist Church. They kept many foreign exchange students in their home; Lars Bruhn of Copenhagen, Denmark lived with them in 1968­69 and was considered by Tony and Virginia as their son. Virginia is survived by her hus­band Tony, their son Lars, his wife Karen and three grandchildren, Christine, Thomas, and her god­daughter Julie; cousins Marilyn Wright of Pleasant Hill; Bonna June Prater of Nebo, and Linda Thomas of St Augustine, Fla. Virginia was of the Baptist faith and served as a volunteer for the Pike County Ambulance District and the Pike County Hospice Association.
Contributed by Billie Browning

EVELYN M. STEPHENSON , 85, of Pittsfield, died March 25, 2009, at the Eastside Health and Rehabilitation Center, Pittsfield. She was born April 9, 1923, in Pittsfield, the daughter of Russell and Ina Anderson Smith. She married Charlie Stephenson Feb. 7, 1942, in Hannibal, Mo., and he preceded her in death Aug. 30, 1987. Mrs. Stephenson was a secretary for Farmer's Mutual Insurance, a partner and cook at the Pittsfield Sale Barn, and a Lunch lady at both Milton School and Pittsfield High School. She was a member of the United Methodist Church of Detroit, Pittsfield American Legion Auxiliary, and Pike County VFW Post Auxiliary. Survivors include three sons, Robert Stephenson of Canton, Larry Stephenson of Sayner, Wis., and Chuck Stephenson of Griggsville; seven grandchildren; and five great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband, Charlie; a brother, Russell Vern Smith; and a sister, Etta Smith Carlander. Funeral services were held Monday, March 30, at 11 a.m. at the Niebur Funeral Home in Pittsfield with Rev. Dave Kelly officiating. Burial at the Blue River Cemetery, Detroit. There will be a lunch at the Detroit Town Hall following the services. Visitation will be held Sunday, March 29, from 5 to 7 p.m. at the Niebur Funeral Home, Pittsfield. Memorials are suggested to the Blue River Cemetery, or the Detroit United Methodist Church, or the Family Readiness Group U.S. Army Reserves.
Contributed by Billie Browning

RAY BRYAN STEPHENSON , 90, of Bedford, Va. and formerly of Jacksonville and Pittsfield died Friday, June 19, 2009 at the home of his daughter. He was born Sunday, Jan. 19, 1919 in Pike County the son of Ray and Dewey Rush Stephenson. He married Kathryn Baker and they celebrated 69 years of marriage. He is survived by his wife, Kathryn Stephenson of Bedford; two daughters, Carol Stephenson of Mesquite, Texas and Barbara (husband, L.T.) Skinnell of Bedford; daughter-in-law, Veronica Stephenson of Mesquite; six grandchildren; and six great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by one son, Roger W. Stephenson and one grandson. Mr. Stephenson farmed for many years in the Detroit area in Pike County and retired from Eisenhower School in Jacksonville. A graveside service will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday, June 27, 2009 at Pittsfield West Cemetery in Pittsfield. The family will meet friends from 10-12 Noon on Saturday at Williamson Funeral Home. Memorials are suggested to Gentle Shepherd Hospice
From Billie Browning - Pike Press

HAROLD E. STILL , 78, of Barry, died Tuesday, March 22, 2011, at his residence in Barry. He was born May 13, 1932 in Quincy to James and Gertrude Bullard Still. He married AnnaBelle (Annie) Howard Oct. 14, 1960 in Quincy and she survives. Dee loved everything ‘trucks’. Trucking was his life, and he had driven semi trucks since he was 15 years old. He had last drove for Gully Transportation before he retired. On his downtime, he collected small scale semi trucks and enjoyed woodworking, carving out semis and other vehicles from cedar. Dee had made a small semi from a lawnmower chassis and drove it at the Barry Apple Festival parades. He won first place 2 years with his entry. He was known for his jokes and stories and was loved by everyone who met him. Survivors include his wife, Annie; a son, Mike (wife Pam) Still of Barry; one daughter, Deanna Still of Balwin, Mo.; two brothers, Don (Betty) Still of Oregon and Rich (Ann) Still of California; a sister Kay (Eldon) Mette of Quincy; two granddaughters, Amy Still of Quincy and Amber (Ben) Royalty of Barry; and one great-grandchild Katelynn Royalty of Barry. Also surviving are a brother-in-law, Jimmy Howard of Baylis, a sister-in-law, Dorothy Mathes of Barry and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded by his parents, a niece Darlene, a brother-in-law Billy Howard and a sister-in-law Katherine Gillum. Graveside funeral services will be held Thursday, March 24 at 11 a.m. at the Park Lawn Cemetery in Barry with Doctor Greg Maize officiating. Memorials may be left to Barry Fire Dept or Pike County Humane Society. On line condolences can be left at niebur@adams.net. Niebur Funeral Chapel in Barry is in charge of the arrangements.
Contributed by Billie Browning

MARILYN STILL , 61, of Pittsfield, died Sunday, July 26, 2009, at Blessing Hospital in Quincy. Marilyn was born Oct. 26, 1947 in Quincy, the daughter of Floyd Orville and Claire Law Fischer. She married Norman W. Still Jr. Dec. 21, 1963 at the Liberty Christian Church in Liberty. She graduated from Liberty High School in 1965 and was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis at the age of 25. She attended the Pittsfield First Christian Church. She was a daycare provider for more than 25 years and dearly loved touching the lives of so many children. She greatly enjoyed attending her grandchildren's many activities and enjoyed traveling, boating and tubing on the river and at the Lake of the Ozarks. Norman and Marilyn recently traveled to Arizona. Her loving husband, Norman and mother, Claire Fischer of Liberty survive. She was a loving mother to David (Laura) Still of Ballwin, Mo., Mark (Missy) Still of Milton and Mrs. Stacy (Jason) Duke of Pittsfield and a loving grandmother of Dawson and Hunter Still, Stephanie and Tanner Still and Shelby and Brady Duke. Three sisters, Mrs Nona (Ron) Steffen of Ham Lake, MN., Mrs Holly (Rick) Knuffman of Manville, and Mrs Paula Knuffman of Liberty, and a sister-in-law, Becky Stevenson of Azel, Texas along with several nieces and nephews, also survive her. Marilyn was preceded in death by her father, Orville, and her mother- in-law, Dorothy J Still and father-in- law, Norman W. Still, Sr. Services will be held at 11 a.m., Thursday, July 30, 2009 at the Niebur Funeral Home in Pittsfield with Bro. Jerry Edison officiating with burial in the Oakwood Cemetery. Family and friends may call today, Wednesday, July 29 from 5 to 7 p.m. at the funeral home. Memorials may be made to the Oakwood Cemetery or to the donors choice.
Contributed by Billie Browning

MARGARET STRUB , to Harry and Violet Read Sept 27, 1928 and graduated from Gem City Business College in Quincy. There she met and mar­ried Gene Strub and they later moved to Tampa, Ha. She worked on occa­sions doing secretarial duties for his construction company and raised their four daughters. She is survived by her husband, Gene Strub; daughters, Kathryn Goodman, Karen Van Den Bogaert and Albert, Kaye Mixson and Tom, Kristina Klein and Charlie; four grandchildren; Jacob Goodman, Gene Richardson and Leslie, Michelle Mixson and Daniel Mixson; two great-grandchildren, Setten and Logan Richardson; cousin, Richard Read. She lived a wonderful life surrounded by her family and is now resting peacefully with our Lord. Funeral services were performed by SylvanAbbey (www. SylvanAbbey. corn) and a small service was July 16. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to St. Jude's Children's Research, Alzheimer's Assoc. or Save the Manatee Club.

RANDALL WAYNE SUTHERLAND , 61, of Griggsville, died Monday, July 27, 2009, at St. John's Hospital ER. He was born Nov. 13, 1947 in Panther, W.V. to Edward Jack and Gladys Sutherland. He was of Catholic faith. Randall enjoyed reading, especially religious books, the outdoors, visiting with people, movie watching, collecting antique articles and especially loved spending time with his family. Survivors include a special friend, Georgia Gorham of Griggsville; four sons, Randall Brian Sutherland and Christopher Wayne Sutherland both of Griggsville and Brian Keith Sutherland and David Sutherland both of Springfield; one daughter, Brianna Sutherland of Auburn; two brothers, Edward Sutherland, Jr. of New York and Keith Sutherland of Illinois; and one sister, Cathy Tarrant of Illinois; and one granddaughter, Ashlee Nichole Sutherland of Pittsfield. He was preceded in death by his parents and one sister, Judy Sutherland. Private funeral services will be held at 1 p.m., Thursday, Aug. 6 at the McCord Cemetery near Perry. Niebur Funeral Home in Pittsfield is handling the arrangements.
Contributed by Billie Browning

WILDA SUTHERLAND , age 77, of Pleasant Hill, died Tuesday, June 28, 2011, at her home. Wilda was born Nov. 8, 1933 near Elkins, W.V. the eldest of the five children of William Harold and Minnie Sarah Collett O’Dell. She attended Marstiller School,a one room country school through grade five, then schools in Elkins, graduating from Elkins High School in 1952. In 1956 she earned a B.A. in Education from Berea College in Berea, Ky. She married Hugh F. Sutherland Dec. 23, 1955 in St. Stephens Episcopal Church in Nora, Va. Wilda first taught the last year of the eight-grade country school at Sand Ridge, near Gorham. Next she taught at Allerton, and finally for 33 years at Pleasant Hill, retiring in 1993. She was an active associate member of the Pleasant Hill United Methodist Church where she taught Sunday School, sang in the choir and was secretary of the UMW. Wilda was a life member of the NEA, the IL Retired Teachers and the Pike-Calhoun Retired Teachers Associations. She was a member of the National Wildlife Association and a charter member of the Friends of Harman House Museum in Pleasant Hill and had served as Museum Board secretary since 1996. Wilda was an avid birder who wrote a weekly wildlife column for the local paper for many years. Survivors include her husband, Hugh Sutherland, of Pleasant Hill; a son, Hugh Sutherland, II of Quincy; a daughter, Sheila (Rex) Doty of Charleston; three grandchildren, Michael and Matthew Doty of Charleston and Christina Lynn Doty of California; two sisters, JoAnn Coffman and Laura Moats both of Elkins; two brothers, Bill (Rose) O’Dell of Elkins and Jim (Lynda) O’Dell of Orlando, Fla.; numerous nieces, nephews, great nieces and nephews, cousins and friends. Wilda was preceded in death by her parents. Funeral services were held Friday, July 1 at 10 a.m. at the Pleasant Hill United Methodist Church conducted by Pastor Sheri Renner. Visitation was held Thursday evening from 5 – 8 p.m. at the Lummis Funeral Home in Pleasant Hill. Graveside services were held Sunday, July 3 at 1 p.m. at Mountain State Memorial Gardens in Elkins, conducted by Gilbert Estridge. Memorials are suggested to the Harman House Museum, the Pleasant Hill United Methodist Church, the National Wildlife Association, the American Diabetes Association or to the charity or organization of the donor’s choice. Lummis Funeral home in Pleasant Hill is handling the arrangements.
Contributed by Billie Browning

JOHN ROBERT SWEARGEN ,76, of Godeffroy, N.Y., died Friday, June 24, 2011 as a result of an automobile accident. He was born on July 23, 1935, in Knob Noster, Mo. a son of Robert N. and Irene (Peggy) Boyd Swearingen. He attended school in Knob Noster and graduated from Pittsfield High School, Pittsfield. He served in the US Air Force from 1953 - 57. While attending Central Missouri State University he started his radio broadcasting with KOKO radio and his acting career. After graduating, he had a lengthy career in broadcasting along with acting on stage and television. He then developed an interest in carpentry as well as restoration and maintenance of older and historic buildings until his retirement. He is survived by two brothers, Dave (Roberta) Swearingen of Fairview, Okla. and Gary (Carolyn) Swearingen of Sedalia, Mo.; a sister, Sarah Nancy Lairsey, of Paris, Texas; and a sister-in-law, Daisy Swearingen, Bonifay, Fla.; A longtime friend and companion Pauline Gambuto of New York, New York; a host of friends; four nephews and a niece. He was preceded in death by his parents; a son, John Bryant Swearingen and a brother, Boyd Swearingen. A memorial service will be held at 10 a.m. Saturday, July 2, at the Otisville Presbyterian Church, Otisville, N.Y.
Contributed by Billie Browning - Pike Press

NAOMI B. (SCRANTON) SWEER , 97, of Willimington, Mass. died Saturday, April 11, 2009 at the Lahey Clinic Medical Center in Burlington, Mass, following a brief illness. She was born Oct. 5, 1911 in Pleasant Hill, the daughter of Charles Henry and Qrpha Long Scranton. She grew up in Pleasant Hill and graduated from MacMurray College in Jacksonville. She taught for several years in Pleasant Hill and Barry. After marriage in 1942, she left teaching, becoming a homemaker and mother to her step-daughter. After being widowed in 1963, she was an instructor and later a dormitory housemother at IL Weslyan University. She retired and moved to Georgetown, Texas in 1971, later moving to Massachusetts in 2003 to live with her son, William, and daughter-in-law, Patricia. Naomi was an active member of her Baptist Church wherever she lived. Naomi was the beloved wife of the late Cullen B. Sweet, loving mother to William D. Sweet, the late Ruth Ann Sweet and the late Goyla Sweet Wolfmeyer, and devoted grandmother of Julia Sweet of San Antonio, Texas. She is also survived by many relatives in Illinois and many friends in Illinois, Texas, Massachusetts and elsewhere. Funeral services will be held today, Wednesday, April 22, at 3:30 p.m. at the Lummis Funeral Home in Pleasant Hill. Burial will follow at Crescent Heights Cemetery in Pleasant Hill. The family will meet with friends from 1 p.m. until services Wednesday at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers in keeping with her heart, the family suggests memorial donations be made in her name to a children's charity or a food aid program of the donor's choice. Lummis Funeral Home in Pleasant Hill is handling the arrangements.