Eva Cordova, 85, of Wellington, IL, formerly of Hoopeston, IL, passed away at 12:43 P.M. Sunday April 27, 2025, at home. She was born March 24, 1940, in Nuevo León, Mexico, the daughter of Heriberto and Maria (Arredondo) Castellano. She married Guadalupe Cordova in Mexico, and he preceded her in death on July 25, 2023.

 

She is survived by four daughters, Sonia Leavell of Hoopeston, IL, Sandra Billingsley of Wellington, IL; Sylvia (Bradford) Elliott of Hoopeston, IL, and Esmeralda (Michael) Green of Rossville, IL; three sons, Guadalupe Cordova Jr. (Phyllis Cox) of Hoopeston, IL, Arturo Cordova (Ernesto Aguirre) of Arlington, TX, and Eduardo (Brandie) Cordova of Hoopeston, IL; one sister, Maria D. (Gilberto) Casas of Hoopeston, IL; one brother, Eugenio (Raquel) Castellano of McAllen, TX; sister-in-law, Queca Castellano of McAllen, TX; brother-in-law, Carlos Hernandez of Wichita Falls, TX; 18 grandchildren, Alexis Leavell, Terrence Poke, Nicolas Billingsley, Lucien Billingsley, Isaiah Cordova-Bell, Ayden Elliott, Andrew and Asia Cordova, Ryan and Joel Nosler, Arianna, Bella, Eliseo, and Freedom Cordova and Marcellus Poke, Lydia Martinez, Sophia Adair and Cataleya Cordova; 17 great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.

 

In addition to her husband, Eva was preceded in death by her parents; one sister, Amelia Hernandez; and two brothers, Guadalupe “Wally” (Rosa) Castellano and Everado (Queca) Castellano.

 

Eva worked as the hostess at the Hoopeston Community Memorial Nursing Home until her retirement. She was a member of St. Anthony Catholic Church in Hoopeston.

 

Cremation rites will be accorded, and private services will be held.

 

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Eva’s family.

 

Please visit www.anderson-funeral-home.com to view Eva’s eternal tribute page and to send the family condolences.

 

Anderson Funeral Home in Hoopeston is handling the arrangements.

Viola May “Vi” Longfellow, 99, of Hoopeston, IL, passed away at 12:00 A.M. Thursday April 24, 2025, at Accolade Healthcare in Danville, IL. She was born May 13, 1925, in Danville, IL, the daughter of Roscoe and Margaret (Byerly) Fleenor. She married Robert Longfellow on December 23, 1944, in Tyler, TX. He preceded her in death.

She is survived by one daughter, Vickie Chaffee (Gary Cronkhite) of West Lebanon, IN; one son, Robert E. (Sherry) Longfellow, Jr. of Hoopeston, IL; three grandchildren, Todd (Anissa) Longfellow, Ty (Lyndsey) Longfellow, and Amanda Mills; six great-grandchildren, Sawyer Longfellow (Halee Schwanke), Alisha Longfellow, Cale Longfellow, Kelcie Huff, and Violet and Ruby Mills; and three great-great-grandchildren, Xander and Emma Huff and Nash Longfellow; and many nieces and nephews.

In addition to her husband, Viola was preceded in death by her parents; one sister, Helen Brandenburg; and one brother, Leonard E. Fleenor.

Viola worked at TRW and later at Baker’s clothing store. She was also a homemaker, caring for her family. She was a member of the First Christian Church Disciples of Christ in Hoopeston. Viola enjoyed sewing, quilting, embroidery, and spending time with her family.

Visitation will be held 10:00 A.M. – 12:00 P.M. Monday, May 5, 2025, at Anderson Funeral Home, 427 E. Main St., Hoopeston, IL. The funeral service will follow the visitation and will begin at 12:00 P.M. Monday May 5th at the funeral home. Burial will follow in Floral Hill Cemetery in Hoopeston.

Memorial donations may be made in memory of Viola to the donor’s choice.

Please visit www.anderson-funeral-home.com to view Viola’s eternal tribute page and to send the family condolences.

Anderson Funeral Home in Hoopeston is handling the arrangements.

Marlene Anne Cox, 85, of Hoopeston, passed away at 3:15 a.m. Friday, April 18, 2025, at Iroquois Memorial Hospital, in Watseka.

She was born on January 19, 1940, in Valparaiso, Indiana, the daughter of James Harlan and Georgia Louise (Shupe) Pelham.  She was previously married to Thomas Churchman, who preceded her in death in 1997.  She later married Robin Lee Cox Sr. on February 14, 2003, at the Hoopeston United Methodist Church.  He preceded her in death on August 31, 2018.

She is survived by her daughter- Lynn Kirland of Lafayette, Indiana; two sons- Emil Michaels and Jack Michaels both of Hoopeston; nine grandchildren- Stephanie Gonzalez, Christopher Gonzalez, Michael Kirland, Dana Michaels, Christopher Michaels, Donna Michaels, Robert Dykeman, LeOnda Michaels and Gabriella Michaels; three great-grandchildren- Orion, Nicholai and Fennec Gonzalez; brother- Marion (Susie) Pelham of Montana; and several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, husbands, son- Brian Michaels, four-brothers- Merle Pelham, Lester Pelham, Leslie Pelham and Harland Pelham, and three sisters- Patsy Humbers, Zina Michaels and Nancy Sturm.

Marlene worked her entire life in various factories and then later worked as a Home Health Aide, in the Hoopeston area.  She loved to cross stitch and do any type of needlework.  She also enjoyed reading romance novels and could read one in a day.  Marlene was a perfectionist in everything that she did and despite her rough exterior she was a very caring lady.

According to her wishes cremation rites will be arranged and there are not any services scheduled at this time.  The family has entrusted the Blurton Funeral Home to assist them in honoring Marlene’s life.  Condolences may be shared with the family on her everlasting memorial page at: www.BlurtonFuneralHomes.com.

Marquetta Miller, 89, of Hoopeston, IL, passed away at 10:14 A.M. Thursday April 17, 2025, at her home. She was born June 17, 1935, in McRoberts, KY, the daughter of Grover Cleveland Partin and Sally Ann (King) Partin. She married Darrel Justus Brooks Miller on June 16, 1960, in Danville, IL. He preceded her in death.

She is survived by one daughter, Sally Brooks (Patrick) Young of Hoopeston, IL; one sister, Velma Lucille Smith of Hoopeston, IL; four grandchildren, Samantha Grubb, Tabetha Marie Grubb, Elizabeth Young Valenzuela, and Brandon Young; six great-grandchildren, Eli, Colt, Graydon, Salvador, Arthur, and Gabby; and several nieces and nephews.

In addition to her husband, Darrel, Marquetta was preceded in death by her parents and one son, Dale Brooks.

Marquetta worked at Woolworths lunch counter and later was a homemaker, caring for her family. She enjoyed cooking, home interior decorating, and spending time with her family.

A graveside service will be held at 1:00 P.M. Friday, April 25, 2025, at Sunset Memorial Park in Danville, IL, with Pastor Adam Taubert officiating.

Memorial donations may be made in memory of Marquetta to the Hoopeston Animal Rescue Team (H.A.R.T.), 901 W. Main St., Hoopeston, IL 60942.

Please visit www.anderson-funeral-home.com to view Marquetta’s eternal tribute page and to send the family condolences.

Anderson Funeral Home in Hoopeston is handling the arrangements.

Robert "Bob" Alan Voyles, a man whose life was defined by a servant's heart, a deep love for family, and an unwavering work ethic, entered his heavenly rest on April 16, 2025, at the age of 76.

Born on August 12, 1948, to Robert and Viola Voyles, Bob was the oldest of six siblings and grew up with a strong sense of responsibility and care for others-qualities that would shape the way he lived his entire life. A 1966 graduate of Wellington High School, Bob went on to serve his country with honor in the United States Army. In 1968, he married the love of his life, Janie Belle Cribbs. Together, they built a life rooted in love, faith, and family-a partnership that spanned 56 years and touched countless lives.

Bob was a tireless worker, not just in his profession, but in every aspect of his life. He began his career at the family business, Voyles Construction Co., and in 1987, he and his brother Bill took ownership and renamed it Voyles Brothers Construction Co. For decades, Bob poured his heart into his work, earning a reputation for honesty, reliability, and a fierce dedication to doing things the right way. He didn't just build structures-he built trust, community, and lasting relationships.

But Bob's greatest joy was his family. He was a devoted husband, a proud father, and a deeply engaged grandfather and great-grandfather. Whether it was cheering at games, hosting family gatherings, or simply being present with a listening ear or encouraging word, Bob made sure his family knew how deeply they were loved. He led with quiet strength, setting an example of what it meant to be faithful, selfless, and kind.

Bob had a servant's heart in the truest sense. He was always the first to lend a hand, whether to a neighbor, friend, or stranger. With a quick wit, a warm smile, and a knack for lighthearted mischief, he made people feel welcome and cared for wherever he went.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Janie Belle Cribbs Voyles; his three sons and their wives: Brad and Kelli Voyles, Shawn and Brittany Voyles, and Clayton and Jerioth Voyles; ten grandchildren: Coby, Will, Cate, Tyler, Hannah, Noah, Ashley, Liam, Oliver, and Emery; and two great-grandchildren: Chloe and Lucas. He is also survived by his brothers, Bill and Kenny Voyles, and his sister, Donna. He was preceded in death by his parents and his sister, Myra and brother, Barry.

Bob's legacy is one of love, service, and a quiet strength and faith in Jesus Christ. He leaves behind a family who adored him, a community that respected him, and a life and legacy of service over self.

Visitation will be held on Monday, April 21 from 3:30-6:30 p.m. at Grace Bible Church in Cissna Park, IL. The funeral service will be at 11 a.m. at Evangelical Free Church in Bloomington, IL on Tuesday, April 22.

Marquetta Miller, 89, of Hoopeston, IL, passed away at 10:14 A.M., Thursday April 17, 2025, at her home. Arrangements are pending at Anderson Funeral Home in Hoopeston.

Jerry Lee Smith, 78, of Hoopeston, IL, passed away at 11:06 A.M. Wednesday, April 16, 2025, at his home. He was born May 7,1946, in Danville, IL, the son of Marvin and Vivian (Childs) Smith. He married Robin Johnson on April 19, 1984, in Danville, IL. She survives in Hoopeston.

He is also survived by two daughters, Jane (Liz) Smith of Bloomington, IL and Jennifer Lile of Hoopeston, IL; one son, Jeremy (Andrea) Lile of Hoopeston, IL; one sister, Janet (Larry) Comstock of Wellington, IL; six grandchildren, Jordan, Keri, Jaidi, Madi, Evan, and Cole; three great-grandchildren, Jacen, Jasper, and Roman; and numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents and one daughter, Carla Hannie.

Jerry worked for Berkley-Davis in Danville for twenty-five years and later for Tridan International until his retirement. He was an avid fisherman and was a member of the Illini Bass Club. He was also an EMA member and enjoyed photography and bowling in several different leagues.

Cremation rites will be accorded. A visitation will be held 5:00 – 7:00 P.M. Wednesday, April 23, 2025, at Anderson Funeral Home, 427 E. Main St., Hoopeston, IL. The memorial service will follow the visitation and will begin at 7:00 P.M. with Mike Robling officiating. No burial will be held.

Memorial donations may be made in memory of Jerry to Iroquois Memorial Hospice or to a charity of the donor’s choice.

Please visit www.anderson-funeral-home.com to view Jerry’s eternal tribute page and to send the family condolences.

Anderson Funeral Home in Hoopeston is handling the arrangements.

Thomas Lambert, 56, of Hoopeston, IL, passed away at 11:43 P.M. March 28, 2025, at Carle Foundation Hospital in Urbana, IL. Arrangements are pending at Anderson Funeral Home in Hoopeston.

Philip David Duncan, a devoted family man and sixth-generation Vermilion County, Illinois farmer, passed away peacefully at Kindred Hospital in Indianapolis, Indiana on April 12th, 2025, at the age of 76, with his beloved wife Sondra Duncan at his side, and after being surrounded by his loving family in his final days.

 

Born on March 3rd, 1949, at St. Elizabeth Hospital in Danville, IL to Marvin and E. June (Spain) Duncan, Phil spent his entire life cultivating the land he loved, leaving behind a legacy rooted in hard work and family. Phil attended Ellis Grade School, graduated from Potomac High School in 1967, and married Nancy (Wesley) Duncan on January 20th, 1968. Together, they raised three children, Tamara, Darren, and Amy. On August 1st, 1997, Phil married Sondra (Green) Duncan and they enjoyed many happy years together.

Phil’s hands, calloused from years of labor, nurtured not only crops but also a loving family. He was a pillar of the community, known for his unwavering commitment to his Christian values and his willingness to lend a helping hand to anyone in need. Beyond his work on the farm, Phil enjoyed watching westerns, camping, boating, cookouts, family reunions, and attending events for his children and grandchildren. He also took delight in raising sheep and, later in life, caring for he and Sondra’s many rescued cats.

As a father and grandfather, he taught his family the value of hard work, the importance of integrity, and the strength found in family bonds. He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Phil is survived by his wife Sondra Duncan. His children, Tamara (Les) Olson of St. Joseph, IL, Darren (Natalie) Duncan of Rossville, IL, Amy (Leon) Hudson of Potomac, IL. His grandchildren: Erin (Christian) Zubia, Nathan (Lexi) Elliott, Trevor (Anna) Elliott, Caleb (Kylee) Elliott; Emily, Allison, Laura, and Adam Duncan; Noel (Cameron) Cawley, Christian (Kyerra) Hudson, Jonathan (Madison) Hudson and Madelyn Hudson, one great-grandchild, Eliza Hudson, and Sondra’s granddaughters, Chellsea, Courtney, and Emily. His siblings: Carol (Curt) Overpeck, Kim (Sara) Duncan and Paula Woolwine. His aunt Bonnie Spain and his uncle Ted (Maria) Spain. He is also survived by many cousins, nieces, and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Marvin and June Duncan, his paternal grandparents, Russell and Inez (Johnson) Duncan, his maternal grandparents, David “Doc” and Gladys (Shumate) Spain, and brother-in-law, Terry Woolwine.

A Celebration of Life will be held at 11am on Saturday, April 19th, 2025, at the Middlefork United Methodist Church in Potomac, IL. Pastor George Desmond will officiate. Phil will be laid to rest at the Potomac Cemetery. Visitation will be 4-7pm on Friday, April 18th, 2025, at the Middlefork United Methodist Church in Potomac, IL. Memorials may be made to the Middlefork United Methodist Church or the Vermilion County Animal Shelter.  The family has entrusted the Blurton Funeral Home to assist them in honoring Phil’s life.  Condolences may be shared with the family on his everlasting memorial page at: www.BlurtonFuneralHomes.com.

Thomas Allen Richter, 88, of Hoopeston, IL, passed away at 9:03 A.M., Thursday April 10, 2025, at his home. He was born September 10, 1936, in Oakwood, IL, the son of Wesley and Mildred (Eldridge) Richter. He married Margaret Ellen Long on September 4, 1959, at the First Methodist Church. She preceded him in death on January 28, 2011.

He was also preceded in death by eight siblings, Ethel, Howard, Frank, Margaret, Norma, Linda, Dorothy, and Robert; and two special friends, Carolyn Sue Dazey and Marie Urich.

He is survived by one son, Brian (Imelda) Richter of Oceanside, CA; one daughter, Laura Johnson of Lebanon, MO; two grandchildren, Julian Richter and Galen Richter; and several nieces and nephews.

Tom worked for the Illinois State Police, retiring after 30 years of service. He served in the United States Army and was a member of the Chestnut Street Church of Christ in Hoopeston. Tom enjoyed fishing, hunting, and taking care of his garden and flowers.

Cremation rites will be accorded, and no services will be held.

Please visit www.anderson-funeral-home.com to view Tom’s eternal tribute page and to send the family condolences.

Anderson Funeral Home in Hoopeston is handling the arrangements.

Randall Eugene Nunn, 63, of Pasadena, MD, formerly of Rossville, IL, passed away at 3:40 P.M. Tuesday, April 8, 2025, at the University of Maryland Baltimore Washington Medical Center in Glen Burnie, MD. He was born May 16, 1961, in Danville, IL, the son of Daniel Reed Nunn, Sr. and Shirley (Fouse) Nunn. His mother survives in Rossville.

Randall is also survived by his significant other, Sandy Galvez; daughter, Trisha (James) Riley of Parkville, MD; son, Joshua Nunn of Rossville, IL; seven brothers and sisters, Debbie Goodwin of Rossville, IL, Peggy Goble of Rossville, IL, Daniel “Danny” Nunn of Rossville, IL, Stan (Martha) Nunn of Bowling Green, KY,  Wayne (Stacey) Nunn of Rossville, IL, Ronald Nunn of Rossville, IL,  and Tyler Nunn (Amy Garrison) of Rossville, IL; two grandsons, Caleb and Tucker; and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his father, Daniel Reed Nunn, Sr.; infant sister, Lisa; and two brothers-in-law, Dale Goodwin and Harold Goble.

Randall worked as a pressure washer mechanic and later repaired and installed car washes. He enjoyed fishing, cooking, and spending time with his grandson.

Cremation rites have been accorded, and a graveside service will be held at 11:00 A.M. Thursday April 24, 2025, at Floral Hill Cemetery in Hoopeston, IL, with Pastor Kevin Purdy officiating.

Please visit www.anderso-funeral-home.com to view Randall’s eternal tribute page and to send the family condolences.

Anderson Funeral Home in Hoopeston is handling the arrangements.

Mary Lou Ault, 88, of Hoopeston, IL, passed away Wednesday, April 9, 2025, at The Villages at Oak Ridge in Washington, IN.  Mary Lou was born April 21, 1936, in Danville, IL and was raised in Hoopeston, IL. 

She was the daughter of A.L. and Mary Taylor.  She had two sisters, Sarah Ann Ault (deceased) and Martha “Muff” Taylor, living in Albany, OR.  She had two brothers, Paul Taylor (deceased) and David Taylor, living in Cincinnati, OH.  She also had two stepbrothers, Donald Butcher and Bobby Butcher (both deceased). 

Mary Lou had two children, Marcia Russell of Petersburg, IN and Randy Wood of Huntsville, AR.  She also leaves behind three grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.

Later, Mary Lou married S. Robert Ault on November 12, 2000, and became the stepmother to Cindy Bell of Watseka, IL, Shelley Miller (deceased), Steve Ault of Morton, IL, and Todd Ault of Danville, IL. 

Mary Lou began playing the piano at a very young age.  Throughout childhood, she played primarily for the Nazarene denomination, alongside her father, Reverend Taylor.  She excelled in every aspect in which she was called upon.  Later, she played for many light operas and musicals for the community.  She also played for weddings and funerals and was always teaching piano lessons.

A visitation will be held from 11:00 A.M. – 1:00 P.M. on Tuesday, April 15, 2025, at Anderson Funeral Home, 427 E. Main St. Hoopeston, IL.  The funeral service will begin at 1:00 P.M. at the funeral home.  Burial will follow in Floral Hill Cemetery in Hoopeston.

Memorial donations may be made in memory of Mary Lou to St. Anthony Catholic Church, 423 S. Third St., Hoopeston, IL 60942.

Please visit www.anderson-funeral-home.com to view Mary Lou’s eternal tribute page and to send the family condolences.

Anderson Funeral Home in Hoopeston is handling the arrangements.

Cynthia Anne Compton, 67, of Hoopeston, IL passed away at 2:52 a.m. Thursday, April 10, 2025, at her home in Hoopeston after a long battle with breast cancer.

She was born January 20, 1958, in Danville, IL, the daughter of Glen Ivan and Janet ‘Delores’ (Dilley) Cox.

She married Joseph Junior Compton on July 15, 1977, in Hoopeston.  He survives.

                Cindy is survived by her son, Joseph ‘Joey’ Compton of Chicago, IL and one sister, Mary Beth Jennings of Hoopeston.  She is also survived by several nieces and nephews and many special friends including her cousin, Penny Conner.

                She is preceded in death by her parents and one sister, Teresa Pierce.

                Cindy had worked for Hoopeston Public Library, FMC and Danville Village Mall.  She also received a degree in nursing and was the former owner of Compton’s Marathon. 

                She enjoyed camping, gardening and spending time with her family and friends.

                A memorial service will be held at 1:00 p.m. Wednesday April 23, 2025, at Anderson Funeral Home, 427 E. Main St., Hoopeston.  Visitation will be from 11:00 a.m. until the time of services on Wednesday, April 23, at the funeral home.

                In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to a charity of the donor’s choice. 

Please visit www.anderson-funeral-home.com to view Cindy’s eternal tribute page and to send the family condolences. 

Anderson Funeral Home in Hoopeston is handling the arrangements.

Anna Frances “Frannie” Moore, also known as Mam, 87, of Hoopeston, IL, passed away at 5:19 A.M. Wednesday, April 9, 2025, at Heritage Health Therapy and Senior Living in Hoopeston. She was born December 22, 1937, in Hoopeston, IL, the daughter of John “Boots” and Pampie Davis (Compton) Rayls. After her mother’s passing, her father later married Norma Lober.  Frannie married Gary Eugene Moore on June 4, 1955. He preceded her in death.

She is survived by one daughter, Candy Warf (Hank Longfellow) of Hoopeston, IL; three sisters, Teri Rayls of Bloomington, IN, Judi (Charlie) Crozier of Hoopeston, IL, and Bev Teegarden of Rossville, IL; two brothers, Bill (Debbie) Rayls of Hoopeston, IL and Larry (Jeanette) Lober of Palos Hills, IL;  sister-in-law, Verna Moore of Texas; nine grandchildren, Cathy Jo (Dan) Sroufek, Doug Wallace, Andy (Jennifer) Wallace, Brandon (Katie) Moore, and Anna, Nina, Josh, Jeremy, and Garrett Moore; thirteen great-grandchildren; ten great-great-grandchildren; and several special nieces and nephews.

In addition to her husband, Frannie was preceded in death by her parents; three sons, Scott, Barry, and Mike; son-in-law, Dave Warf; sister, Judy Goodrum; two brothers, John Rayls and Steve Lober; two sisters-in-law, Norma Cox and Donna Moore; two brothers-in-law, Dave Teegarden and Butch Moore; great-grandson, Carter Wise; and nephew, Jon “Jon Jon” Rayls.

Frannie was a homemaker, caring for her family. She also worked for Mills Publication and then sold Avon and Tupperware. She later worked for Craftsmen Printing until her retirement. She was a member of the First Christian Church Disciples of Christ in Hoopeston. Frannie enjoyed crocheting, ceramics, and playing Yahtzee and Scrabble.

Visitation will be held 12:00 – 1:00 P.M. Wednesday, April 16, 2025, at Anderson Funeral Home, 427 E. Main St., Hoopeston, IL. The funeral service will follow the visitation and will begin at 1:00 P.M. Wednesday at the funeral home with Shawon Wise officiating. Burial will follow in Floral Hill Cemetery in Hoopeston.

Memorial donations may be made in memory of Frannie to the Danville Cancer Center, 806 N. Logan Ave, Danville, IL 61832.

Please visit www.anderson-funeral-home.com to view Frannie’s eternal tribute page and to send the family condolences.

Anderson Funeral Home in Hoopeston is handling the arrangements.

Jaylne Sue Quillen, 73, of Rossville, IL, passed away on April 4, 2025, at Arcadia Care Watseka. She was born August 26, 1951, in Williamsport, IN, the daughter of Kathleen Howard and step-daughter of George Longest. She married Huey Quillen in Kentucky in 1989. He preceded her in death.

She is survived by two daughters, Angela Brewer (James Goin) and Rhonda (Daryl) Fink; two sons, Jackie Winchester and George (Melissa) Searcy; five sisters, Cora Lister, Frances Clarkston, Janet Upperman, Linda (Linden) Coffey, and Lisa (Daryl) Irvin; fourteen grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her mother and step-father, George and Kathleen Longest; three sisters, Vickie, Virginia, and Lori; one infant brother; and one brother-in-law.

Jaylne worked at the Hoopeston American Legion as a waitress and later at the Oasis. She enjoyed reading books, playing Bingo and cards, and gambling.

A graveside service will be held at 11:00 A.M. Thursday, April 10, 2025, at the Rossville Cemetery with Pastor Micah Mobley officiating.

Please visit www.anderson-funeral-home.com to view Jaylne’s eternal tribute page and to send the family condolences.

Anderson Funeral Home in Hoopeston is handling the arrangements.

Betty Lou Cordes, 74, of Champaign, formerly of Henning, passed away at 11:39 p.m. Thursday, April 3, 2025, at La Bella Nursing Home, in Danville.

Betty was born on February 26, 1951, in Danville, the daughter of Bobby and Esther (Amos) Bostwick.  She married John Cordes on December 30, 1972, in Danville.  He preceded her in death on October 22, 2003.

She is survived by her two daughters- Corinna (Ken) Revello of Westville and Tammy (Tom) Cordes of Gibson City; two sons- Chad (Sindy Hannon) Cordes of Speedway, IN and Derek (Tresa Howard) Cordes of Covington, IN; six grandchildren; eleven great-grandchildren; two brothers; one sister; and her significant other- Melvin “Moose” Corray of Champaign.

She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, two grandchildren- Dakota Thilmony and Caleb Cordes and two siblings.

She graduated from Seeger High School.  She worked as the activity director at the Arbors Nursing Home, in Savoy, until her retirement in 2015.  She served as a volunteer on the Bismarck Fire Protection District and Middlefork Ambulance for over 20 years.  She was an avid Illini sports fan and enjoyed doing puzzles.  She also enjoyed fishing and bowling.

Cremation rites will be arranged and a graveside service will be held at 11:00 a.m. Saturday, April 12, 2025, at Potomac Cemetery.  The family has entrusted the Blurton Funeral Home to assist them in honoring Betty’s life.  Condolences may be shared with the family on her everlasting memorial page at: www.BlurtonFuneralHomes.com.

John Paul Wischnowsky, 57, of Wellington, IL, tragically passed away on Friday, March 28, 2025. He was born January 1, 1968, and was raised on a beautiful farm in Chebanse, IL, by his aunt, Dorothy Boykin.

John shared his life with his partner, Jennifer Lynne Smith, and together they built a home filled with love and laughter. He was the proud father of Jacqulynne (Zachary) Schill of Donovan, IL, Johnathon (Ashely) Schill of Watseka, IL, Vincent Smith (Britany) of Watseka, IL, Emberlee Smith of Wellington, IL, and Lacey (Cody) Stelly of Pensacola, FL. John’s greatest pride and joy was his grandchildren, Dawson, Greyson, Marleigh, and Robbie, who referred to him as Papa Tractor. His eyes would light up whenever he spoke of them, and he found endless happiness in watching them grow. He also leaves behind a near and dear longtime friend, Eric Eckhoff.

John was a diesel mechanic at C & L Trucking, where he loved working with his mechanic family. As he would walk through the door, the smell of diesel would fill the room. That’s how you would know that man worked hard that day! His life consisted of working hard every day, tractors, semis, dirt bikes; and always one of the kids’ vehicles even though he didn’t want to, he’d still do it anyway as he was always there for his kids, helping them no matter what they needed. He was also a jokester, having a mischievous behavior. You never knew where he was, or if he was waiting around the corner to jump out at you!

A man of simple joys, John was known for his deep love for family, cherishing time spent with his loved ones; his unwavering work ethic, and had a lifelong passion for tractors, which he enjoyed both as a hobby and a source of personal pride. His love for the open fields and the hum of the engine was something he shared with those closest to him, whether working on the farm or chatting with friends and family about the latest machinery. His knowledge of tractors and farming was unmatched, and he passed that legacy down to those who loved him.

John's warm heart, kindness, and sense of humor will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him. He leaves behind a family who will carry on his memory and a community that will never forget the impact he had on their lives. We know he is in Heaven right now fixing a tractor and showing off his knowledge for knowing the year of any tractor!

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

John’s spirit will live on in the memories he created with his family, the lessons he taught, and the love he gave so freely. Rest in peace, John. You will forever and always be loved and missed!

Please visit www.anderson-funeral-home.com to view John’s eternal tribute page and to send the family condolences.

Judith Ann Benjamin, 74, of Hoopeston, IL, passed away at 7:25 A.M. Wednesday, April 2, 2025, at the Hawthorne Inn of Danville, due to complications from Alzheimer’s.

Judith was born February 20, 1951, in Springfield, IL, the daughter of George and Kathleen VanLeer. She married Thomas Anthony Benjamin on June 29, 1979, in Springfield. He survives in Hoopeston.

She is also survived by three children, Thomas John (Lacey) Benjamin of Rossville, IL, Chad Allen (Stephanie) Hoover of Chatham, IL, and Melissa Ann (Tommy) Harper of Chatham, IL; four brothers, Ron (Mindy) VanLeer of Indianapolis, IN, Tom (Joan) VanLeer of Sherman, IL, Jim (Cheryl) VanLeer of Springfield, IL, and John (Debbie) VanLeer of Paducah, KY; nine grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.

Judi was preceded in death by her parents, George and Kathleen VanLeer; and one brother, Kenneth VanLeer.

Judi attended Little Flower Catholic Grade School and later graduated from Sacred Heart Catholic High School in Springfield.

Judi worked for Kroger Grocery in Chillicothe, IL, for four years. She then owned and operated a Boutique Shop in Hoopeston for several years before being hired as Office Assistant for the Hoopeston Chamber of Commerce for seven years. She later worked for the Hoopeston Main Street program for several years as a Coordinator assisting in the development of the downtown area.

Judi was a member of St Anthony Catholic Church in Hoopeston. She was also a member of the Beta Sigma Phi Sorority, a board member for the Vermilion County Health Department for four years, and enjoyed volunteer work, assisting with the Girl Scout program.

She was an avid gardener and loved her flowers, especially her roses and mums. She also enjoyed reading and loved to entertain her family, friends, and neighbors.

Per her wishes, Judi will be cremated. The family will receive friends for a visitation from 10:00 A.M. – 12:00 P.M., Friday, April 11, 2025, at Anderson Funeral Home, 427 E. Main St., Hoopeston, IL, followed by a Funeral Mass at 1:00 P.M. at St. Anthony Catholic Church, 423 S. 3rd St., Hoopeston, IL, with Father Ted Pracz officiating.  A private burial will be held at a later date at Bentown Friends Cemetery near Bloomington, IL.

Memorial donations may be made in memory of Judi to the Alzheimer’s Association, 225 N Michigan Ave. Floor 17, Chicago, IL 60601.

Please visit www.anderson-funeral-home.com to view Judi’s eternal tribute page and to send the family condolences.