Richard D. Birkey, 86, of Hoopeston, IL, went unexpectedly and peacefully to his home in Heaven at 9:39 a.m., Monday, December 29, 2025. He and his wife of 16 years, Ruby Beaty Birkey, both resided at Heritage Health in Hoopeston.

Richard was born in Bloomington, IL on November 8, 1939, to Earl and Dorothy (Weaver) Birkey. He was preceded in death by his parents and his wife, Mavis Miller Birkey.

Richard is survived by his wife, Ruby; two sons, Allan (Robin) Birkey of Brazil, IN and Tim Birkey of Bradenton, FL; three grandchildren, Christy (Carlos) Calderon of San Jose, CA, Bobby O. (Kayla) Styck of Brazil, IN, and Abby (Josh) Cunningham of Wichita Falls, TX; six great-grandchildren, Mateo and Ari Calderon, Bobby T. and Zac Styck, and Cali and Cade Cunningham; step-daughter, Lisa (Steve) Johnson of Edna, TX; two brothers, Vernon (Shirley) Birkey of Bradenton, FL and Bob (Liz) Birkey of Omaha, NE.

He thoroughly enjoyed visits and keeping in touch with his family and many friends. Richard was always saying, “Send me that picture.”

Richard was a member of the First Baptist Church in Hoopeston and loved offering his time and talents to the church. He also loved his community and served as a past Rossville Village Board Trustee and was the leader of Gospel Music in the Park. He was passionate about his career in machinery and auto sales. He worked for Birkey’s Farm Store, Birkey’s Chrysler, and others. After retirement, he went back to sales, working at Shaff Implement Co. and later, Urich Motors in Hoopeston. Richard never knew a stranger and found someone he knew everywhere he went.

Visitation will be held on Tuesday, January 6, 2026, from 9:30-11:00 a.m. at Anderson Funeral Home, 427 E. Main St., Hoopeston, IL. The funeral service will follow the visitation and begin at 11:00 a.m. at the funeral home. Burial will follow at East Bend Cemetery, 702 County Road 3300 N., Fisher, IL.

Memorials may be made in memory of Richard Birkey to the First Baptist Church, 323 E. Seminary Ave., Hoopeston IL 60942 or Samaritans Purse, PO Box 3000, Boone, NC 28607.

Please visit www.anderson-funeral-home.com to view Richard’s eternal tribute page and to send the family condolences. Anderson Funeral Home in Hoopeston is handling the arrangements.

Barbara Jean Harper, 88, of Hoopeston, IL, passed away at 5:45 A.M. Monday, December 29, 2025, at her home. She was born October 31, 1937, in Springfield, IL, the daughter of Paul M. and Lena (Thomas) Jones. She married Marion “Wilbur” Harper in 1952 in St. Joseph, MI. He preceded her in death.

She is survived by one daughter, Becky (Jimmy) Didier of Cissna Park, IL; two sons, Dan (Shirley) Harper of Milton, FL and Rick (Nancy) Harper of Danville, IL; one sister, Diana Curry of Danville, IL; five grandchildren, Eric Harper (fiancé Carlina), Tara (Jason) Moore, Rachel Harper, Jamie (Jason) Gash, and RaeAnn (Josh) DeMoss; six great-grandchildren, Jordan, Emily, Kalie, Savannah, Kira, and Baylee; one great-great-grandson, Myles; and several nieces and nephews.

In addition to her husband, Barbara was also preceded in death by her parents, Paul and Lena Jones; her daughter, Cindy Powell; two brothers, Paul O. Jones and Larry Jones; and her grandson, Dustin Powell.

Barbara worked at Essex and then Scranton’s. She later worked at Schumacher Electric until her retirement. She enjoyed traveling with her husband in their motorhome, camping and making new friends. She also enjoyed playing cards with her family and friends, dancing, and listening to music, especially country.

A visitation will be held 10:00 A.M. – 12:00 P.M. Monday, January 5, 2026, 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 at the funeral home. Following the service, per her wishes, she will be cremated.

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

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

Anderson Funeral Home in Hoopeston is handling the arrangements.

Vivian L. (Cottingham) Martin, 99, formerly of Pence, Indiana passed away Friday December 26, 2025, in Hoopeston, IL.

Born Jan 5, 1926, Daughter of the late Robert E. & Anna F. (Blind) Cottingham.

She was raised in the farmhouse at Maple Row Farm, Medina township Warren County, Indiana

Vivian married Matt E. Martin, 1948 in Greenhill, IN. The church building in which they were married in later years became a Coon hunters club, which always brought them a chuckle. They were married for 62 years until Matt's passing in 2010. Vivian was also Preceded in death by her parents & Siblings Wilma, Irma, Dwight, Dwain, Roberta & Roselyn Cottingham.

Vivian is survived by her two sons, Rex (Maureen) Martin of Hoopeston, IL and Tony (E. Lynanne) Martin of near Pence, IN. 3 grandchildren, Bert Martin, Brenda Martin and Adam Martin. 10 great granddaughters, 1 great grandson, 4 great, great grandsons and several wonderful Nieces and Nephews.

At the age of 13 Vivian was struck with a burst Appendix, which, at that time, was very much a life-threatening condition. Spending four months in the hospital. At one point the Doctors told her father that she was not likely to live much longer. Her oldest sister, Irma being a Nurse out east in Philadelphia. Came home on the train and brought special new medicine which a Doctor in Philadelphia had mixed. Irma quit her job as a Nurse in Philly, came home and helped care for Vivian for a significant time during her recovery.

Due to her long illness, Vivian repeated the 8th grade, then went on to become Valedictorian of Pine Village, IN H.S. class of 1944. One of her teachers, Emma Akers helped her prepare her valedictorian speech.

Vivian graduated from Lafayette’s Home Hospital school of Nursing as an RN and worked in surgery at Home Hospital, then later at Lake View hospital in Danville, Illinois. She also worked in the Dental field with Doc Bush in Rossville, Il before becoming a Farm wife & bookkeeper for her husband’s Farming & Livestock enterprises & Seed business- Martin Seeds.

Vivian was a terrific Mother. The kind who stayed up all night in the chair worrying and waiting on her occasionally,….O.K., often knuckleheaded teenage sons to return home on a weekend night. Surprisingly she never once disowned us.

Vivian was the kind of mother who suddenly lost her appetite when there was only a serving or two remaining, and her sons were also at the table.

Vivian was also the “Mean” kind of Mom who drilled into her sons, routines & habits such as regularly saying Please & Thank you, brushing your teeth and other habits of good hygiene. She drilled her preschool sons with scholastic cards, so they could have a good start in school.

Simply by her example, her kids knew that honesty was the best policy.

For many years Vivian enjoyed golfing with her friends at Hubbard Trail and was a charter lifetime member of the Warren County “Coffee club” along with her late friends Virginia Crone, , May Debord, Lillian Etchison, Alma Greenwood & Glowdine Myers.

She and Matt traveled extensively and spent several years as members of the Ambassadair flying club.

Her family would like to thank the many wonderful caregivers over the past years. Along with providing dedicated care, these folks bravely stood their post during the frightening, uncertain times early in the Covid epidemic. I’ll not name names for fear of leaving someone out. However, the staff & those in the background quietly supporting at the Carle Hospital Emergency room, Autumn Fields Hoopeston, and especially those at Heritage Healthcare in Hoopeston are much appreciated. We were lucky & blessed to have these facilities and caring people!

Visitation will be at Grady Funeral Home on Saturday, January 3, 2026 from 12:00 p.m. until funeral service time at 2:00 p.m. with Pastor Rod Andrews officiating. Interment will follow at Jordan Cemetery in Pence. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that contributions in Vivian's name be made to the Tab Christian Church to construct a handicap lift. Online condolences may be made at www.gradyfuneralhome.com

Jane Elizabeth “Buda” Hurt, 52, of Hoopeston, IL, passed away at 1:22 P.M. Thursday December 25, 2025, at her home. She was born June 9, 1973, in Danville, IL, the daughter of Emery Paul and Karen Sue (Rutledge) Hurt. They preceded her in death.

She was also preceded in death by her grandparents; one sister, Pauline Pierce-Rison; and special nephew, Bradley Kelnhofer.

She is survived by her daughter, Cassidy Hurt (Anton Williams) of Hoopeston, IL; five siblings, Bill (Cindy) Hurt of Catlin, IL, Moose Hurt of Hoopeston, IL, Brenda (Greg) Kelnhofer of Hoopeston, IL, Paula (Bruce) Williams of Hoopeston, IL, and Kristy Hurt of Hoopeston, IL; two granddaughters, Hazyn and Hendrix; several nieces and nephews; and several great-nieces and nephews.

Jane worked as a CNA at Heritage Health in Hoopeston for many years. She has currently worked as a CMA at Carle Hoopeston Regional Health Center for the past seven years. She enjoyed spending time with her family, especially her granddaughters.

Visitation will be held 4:00 – 7:00 P.M. Friday, January 2, 2026, at Anderson Funeral Home, 427 E. Main St., Hoopeston, IL. The funeral service will be held at 11:00 A.M. Saturday, January 3, 2026, at the funeral home. Burial will follow in the Floral Hill Cemetery in Hoopeston.

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

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

Anderson Funeral Home in Hoopeston handling the arrangements.

Allen E. Mertz, age 83, of Rossville, passed away on Sunday, December 21, 2025, at Accolade Healthcare of Danville, with his family by his side.

Born October 5, 1942, in Danville to Theodore A. and Dorothy Mae (French) Mertz, Allen married Mary Jane “Janey” Loden on February 2, 1982, at the Rossville United Methodist Church. Janey survives him.

Allen is also survived by his daughters, Rose Kiser (Larry Kleiboeker) of Patoka, IL, and Christina Gossett (Pete) of Biloxi, MS; his son Anthony Mertz of Danville; his “adopted” daughter Margaret Tiffin of Hoopeston; ten grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; brothers Jim (Charlotte) Mertz and Michael (JoAnne) Mahorney, both of Rossville; sisters Marilyn Cox of Aurora, IL, Susan Mertz and Patsy Merritz both of Vallejo, CA; uncles Kenneth Cook and Wilbur Cook, both of Danville; as well as many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his parents, son Bruce Eldridge, daughter Brandy Mertz, and son-in-law David Kiser.

After graduating from Bismarck High School, Allen served in the U.S. Marine Corps during the Vietnam War. He spent 47 years working at Teepak until retiring in 2013. He was a member of the Rossville United Methodist Church and Eastern Illinois ABATE. Allen enjoyed gardening, yardwork, traveling, riding motorcycles, and spending time with Janey.

Visitation will be held Saturday, January 3, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at Blurton Funeral Home in Potomac, with funeral services immediately following at noon. In accordance with his wishes, cremation rites will take place after the service, and burial will be scheduled later at Bethel Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to Eastern Illinois ABATE.

Arrangements are entrusted to Blurton Funeral Home. Condolences may be shared with the family at www.BlurtonFuneralHomes.com.

Beverly Ann Teegarden, 81, of Rossville, passed away at her home, surrounded by family, on Sunday, December 21, 2025.

She was born in Danville on October 5, 1944, to Merwin and Norma (Gocking) Lober. On July 6, 1963, she married David H. Teegarden Sr. at Cheneyville Church of Christ; he preceded her in death on December 5, 2013.

She is survived by her two sons, Dave (Debbie) Teegarden Jr. and Dan Teegarden, both of Rossville; three grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; one sister, one brother, several nieces, nephews, and extended family members.

 Beverly was also preceded in death by her parents, brother, and daughter-in-law.

A member of the Rossville Church of Christ, Beverly loved gardening, painting, ceramics, and especially spending time with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Honoring her wishes, cremation rites will be arranged, and a service will be held this spring, with burial at Rossville Cemetery. The Blurton Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements. Condolences may be shared at: www.BlurtonFuneralHomes.com.

Gary Philip Conn, Sr., 68, of rural Danville, IL, went to his heavenly home on Thursday, December 18, 2025, surrounded by his family. He was born on May 11, 1957, in Mansfield, OH, the son of Roy Conn and Nannie Mae (Coffee) Kerce. His father survives in Mansfield, OH.

He is also survived by his daughter, Elizabeth (Philip) Benjamin of Bismarck, IL; his son, Gary Philip Conn, Jr. of Hoopeston, IL; six grandchildren, Maranda (Robert) Irvin, Wyatt (Courtney) Witty, Chase Benjamin, Connor Benjamin, Max Conn, and Jake Conn; and four great-grandchildren, Asher, Aspen, and Emalynn Irvin and Dasiah Walters.

He was preceded in death by his mother and step-father, Nannie and Donald Kerce; step-mother, Bertha Conn; maternal grandmother, Mae Ferguson; and maternal grandfather, Roscoe Coffee.

Gary worked at Wyman-Gordon which later became Krupp-Gerlach. In his free time, he enjoyed traveling around the country racing greyhounds. He especially loved spending time with his family and his service dog, Layla, who was by his side until the very end, protecting him with love and obedience. Gary also enjoyed talking with his online friends, drinking coffee, reading his Bible, and listening to Kenneth Copeland.

Gary’s family would like to give a special thank you to his caregiver, Tonya, for all of her help and keeping him comfortable with her sweet treats, coffee, and iced tea.

The family would also like to thank Marj and the Carle Hospice team for their constant care.

A graveside service will be held at 11:00 A.M. Monday, December 22, 2025, at Floral Hill Cemetery in Hoopeston, IL with Pastor Micah Mobley officiating.

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

Anderson Funeral Home in Hoopeston is handling the arrangements.

Sandra Sue “Sandi” (Doden) Latham, 82, of Hoopeston, IL, passed away Wednesday evening, December 17, 2025, at her home. She was born on May 1, 1943, in Chicago, IL, the daughter of Chester Alan and Mary Margaret (Brown) Doden. She married Richard James “Dick” Latham on May 30, 1964, at the Community Bible Church in Butler, IN. He preceded her in death on June 24, 2025.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Chet and Margie Doden and grandparents, Vaughn and Ethel Brown and John and Bertha Doden.

She is survived by her son, Douglas (Kim) Latham of Carmel, IN and her daughter, Vaughna (Roger) Allen of Hoopeston, IL; one brother, Daryle (Brenda) Doden of Auburn, IN; eleven grandchildren, Natasha (Bryan), Brenna, Aubrey, Gabriel (Anya), Charis, Elizabeth (Logan), Lauren, Rachel, William, Cole, and Kathryn; and three great-grandchildren, Jade, Charles, and Evelyn with two more on the way.

Sandi attended the Lutheran Hospital School of Nursing in Fort Wayne, IN, graduating in 1963. She then worked as a Registered Nurse and served for many years as the Hoopeston Clinic Director for the Community Heath Partnership of Illinois. In 2010, she received the Ramona Lopez Community Health Center Employee Award from the Illinois Primary Health Care Association and in 2011 she received the Louis S. Garcia Community/Migrant Health Services Award from the National Association of Community Health Centers. Sandi’s compassion compelled her to care for the health of those less fortunate and underserved in her community.

Sandi was a faithful member of the First Baptist Church in Hoopeston where she was active serving as a preschool Sunday School teacher, assistant pianist, adult choir pianist, and led Mission Bells. She and Dick were extensive travelers, visiting nearly all fifty states and Israel, Egypt, Italy, Greece, the Caribbean, and Mexico. Sandi also enjoyed music, reading, creating photo memory albums, logic and word puzzles, family history, sewing, and most importantly spending time with her husband, children, and grandchildren. Sandi chose to live a life full of meaningful acts of love and service, like Christ modeled for us.

Visitation will be from 10:00 – 11:00 A.M. Tuesday, December 23, 2025, at the First Baptist Church, 323 E. Seminary Ave., Hoopeston, IL. The funeral service will follow the visitation and begin at 11:00 A.M. Tuesday at the church with her brother and Pastor Adam Taubert officiating. Burial will follow in Floral Hill Cemetery.

Memorial donations in memory of Sandi may be given to the First Baptist Church, 323 E. Seminary Ave, Hoopeston, IL 60942.

Anderson Funeral Home in Hoopeston is overseeing the arrangements. Please visit www.anderson-funeral-home.com to view Sandi’s eternal tribute page and to send the family condolences.

Candice Watona “Candy” Solis, 61, of Hoopeston, IL, passed away on Sunday, December 14, 2025, at OSF St. Francis Medical Center in Peoria. She was born April 30, 1964, in Hayti, MO, the daughter of William Walter and Mary Ellen (Gaskins) Petty. She married Apolinar Solis on April 21, 1988, in Fowler, IN. He survives in Hoopeston.

She is also survived by her daughter, Belinda Dawn Solis of Hoopeston, IL; her two sons, Joel Solis of Rossville, IL and Dustin Angelo Solis of Rochelle, IL; two sisters, Margie Brown of Missouri and Mary Jane Petty of Oregon; two brothers, John Henry (Sue) Petty of Missouri and William “Bubba” Petty Jr. of Louisiana; 11 grandchildren; 2 great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, William and Mary Ellen Petty; and her son, Apolinar Solis, Jr.

Candy was a factory worker, working at Heatcraft and most recently, Teasdale Foods. She attended New Beginnings Church in Hoopeston. She enjoyed playing bingo and collecting angels. Candy especially loved her family and spending time with her grandchildren.

Cremation rites will be accorded. A visitation will be held 10:00 A.M. – 1:00 P.M. Monday, December 29, 2025, at Anderson Funeral Home, 427 E. Main St., Hoopeston, IL. The memorial service will follow the visitation and will begin at 1:00 P.M. Monday, Dec. 29th at the funeral home. No burial will be held.

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

Anderson Funeral Home in Hoopeston is handling the arrangements.

Vickie Ann Gaddis, 72, of Hoopeston, IL, passed away at 10:00 A.M. Tuesday December 16, 2025, at her home. She was born on February 27, 1953, in Danville, IL, the daughter of Howard Gaddis and Betty (Huckleby) Gaddis.

She is survived by her siblings, David (Penny) Gaddis of Hoopeston, IL, Jim (Kim) Judy of Ashley, IL, Rita South of Springfield, IL, and Tammy (Keith) Hall of Springfield, IL and several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her step-mother, Marjorie Gaddis; step-father, Wilson Lomax; and her sister, Sandy Gaddis.

Vickie worked at Howard Industries in Milford for over 20 years. She was a member of Chestnut Street Church of Christ in Hoopeston where she was involved in their women’s group. Vickie loved the Lord and her church family. She served as an election judge for over 20 years and was also a member of the Hoopeston American Legion Auxiliary and the Hoopeston Moose Lodge. In her younger years, Vickie loved to dance. She also loved playing bingo, spending time with her friends, and going out to eat with Cindy and Don.

Visitation will be held 11:00 A.M. – 12:00 P.M. Friday, December 19, 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. Friday at the funeral home. Burial will follow in Floral Hill Cemetery in Hoopeston.

Memorial donations may be made in memory of Vickie to Chestnut Street Church of Christ, 709 E. Chestnut St., Hoopeston, IL 60942.

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

Anderson Funeral Home in Hoopeston is handling the arrangements.

Norma Jean Irvin, 90, of rural Wellington, IL, passed away at 8:57 A.M. Friday, December 12, 2025, at her home. She was born June 30, 1935, in Prairie Green Township, the daughter of Gerald and Lillian (Swartz) Totheroh. She married Charles Wayne Irvin on December 30, 1955. He preceded her in death on March 2, 2008.

She is survived by her daughter, Penny Irvin of Wellington, IL; her son, Mike Irvin of Normal, IL; many nieces and nephews; special friend, Edye (Tom) Bookwalter; and her godchildren, Lucas (Lisa) Burge and Samantha (Steve) Bruens.

In addition to her husband, Norma was preceded in death by her parents; two brothers, Maurice and Robert Totheroh and one sister-in-law, Barbara Irvin.

Norma worked as a cook at Wellington school. She was a member of Prairie Green Church of Christ where she was very active serving as a Sunday school teacher for many years. Norma enjoyed watching Illini basketball and spending time with her family.

Cremation rites will be accorded, and a graveside service will be held at a later date.

Memorial donations may be made in memory of Norma to Prairie Green Church of Christ or Iroquois Memorial Hospice.

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

Anderson Funeral Home in Hoopeston is handling the arrangements.

Frances Pauline Dunn, 86, of Hoopeston, IL, passed away at 9:44 P.M. Tuesday, December 9, 2025, at her home. She was born February 13, 1939, at home in Alvin, IL, the daughter of Verle and Emma Beatrice (Claypool) Landsdown. She married Lowell Dunn on March 3, 1989, at the First Church of the Nazarene in Hoopeston. He preceded her in death.

She is survived by her daughter, Tammy Galloway of Hoopeston, IL; son, Richard (Kim) Galloway of Grand Rivers, KY; step-son, Larry Dunn of Florida; two sisters, Mildred Astell and Norma Hayslett; three grandchildren, Nathan, Marcus (Riley), and Nicholas Galloway; and three great-grandchildren, Aurora, Koa, and Calbert Galloway.

In addition to her husband, Frances was preceded in death by her parents; step-son, Ron Dunn; two sisters, Vera Pettice and Esther Rutledge; one brother, John Landsdown; and four brothers-in-law.

Throughout her life, Frances worked at several factories including Scranton’s, Gulbranson, and Schumacher Electric until her retirement. She later worked at Henning’s Root Beer Stand for several years. She was a member of Chestnut Street Church of Christ in Hoopeston. Frances loved her family and caring for her children. She also enjoyed doing word searches, puzzles, and watching old television shows.

Cremation rites will be accorded. Visitation will be held 2:00 – 3:00 P.M. Sunday December 28, 2025, at Anderson Funeral Home, 427 E. Main St., Hoopeston, IL. The memorial service will follow the visitation and will begin at 3:00 P.M. Sunday, December 28th at the funeral home with Pastor John Morris officiating. No burial will be held.

Memorial donations may be made in memory of Frances to Iroquois Memorial Hospice, 200 N. Laird Lane, Watseka, IL 60970.

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

Anderson Funeral Home in Hoopeston is handling the arrangements.

Earl Wayne Lackey, 82, of Hoopeston, IL, passed away at 2:50 A.M. Wednesday, December 10, 2025, at his home. He was born May 29, 1943, at Lakeview Hospital in Danville, IL, the son of Willard and Thelma Mae (Ervin) Lackey. He married Jean Ann Ulrich on February 18, 1967, at the First Lutheran Church in Paxton, IL. She survives in Hoopeston.

He is also survived by his daughter, Jacqueline “Jacki” Jo (Chris) Gregory of Rossville, IL; son, Jason (Sarah) Lackey of Indianapolis, IN; sister, Judith Teran of Rossville, IL; two brothers, Victor Lackey of Rossville, IL and Bruce (Donna) Lackey of Danville, IL; four grandchildren, Hannah Claire Gregory, Jacob Christopher Gregory, Owen Joseph Lackey, and Mara Elizabeth Lackey; and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Willard and Thelma Lackey.

Earl worked at FMC and later worked for John Deere. He was a member of Immanuel Lutheran Church in Danville. He enjoyed gardening, tinkering in the garage, and spending time with his family and grandchildren. Earl loved visiting with people and never knew a stranger.

Visitation will be held 11:00 A.M. – 1:00 P.M. Tuesday, December 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. Tuesday at the funeral home with Pastor James Yonkers officiating. Burial will follow in Rossville Cemetery.

Memorial donations may be made in memory of Earl 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 Earl’s eternal tribute page and to send the family condolences.

Anderson Funeral Home in Hoopeston is handling the arrangements.

Ricky Ray Elder, 67, of Potomac, passed away at 11:22 a.m. on Sunday, December 7, 2025, at Goldwater Care in Danville.

Born on October 18, 1958, in Florence, Alabama, he was the son of Thomas Elder and Carolyn Thigpen. He was previously married to Jennifer Beadles in 2000 in Danville.

He is survived by his two sons, Thomas Elder of New Mexico and Nathan Elder of Indianapolis, IN; a step-son, Ziyad Bajis of Colorado; four brothers, Cleatus Elder of Potomac, Randy (Shelly) Cessna of Potomac, Keith Cessna of Potomac, and Chris (Heidi) Cessna of San Diego, CA; as well as several nieces and nephews.

Mr. Elder was preceded in death by his parents, step-father David Cessna, and step-son Ty Brown.

A graduate of Potomac High School, class of 1977, Ricky continued his education at DACC and Anderson University. He devoted several years of service to Caradco in Rantoul and later worked as a groundskeeper at Willow Pond Golf Course in Rantoul and as a scorekeeper for the Danville Dashers. Ricky had a passion for sports, both as a participant and an enthusiastic supporter of teams including the St. Louis Cardinals, Fighting Illini, Chicago Bulls, and Blackhawks. He also enjoyed golfing.

A celebration of Ricky’s life will take place from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. on Friday, December 12, 2025, at the Potomac Community Building, 310 W. State St., Potomac. Cremation rites have been accorded. The family has entrusted Blurton Funeral Home in Potomac with arrangements to honor Mr. Elder’s life. Condolences may be shared with the family on his memorial page: www.BlurtonFuneralHomes.com.

Jimmie Lynn Barker, 74, of Hoopeston, IL, passed away at 9:27 P.M. Sunday December 7, 2025, at Heritage Health Therapy and Senior Living in Hoopeston. She was born on January 8, 1951, in Danville, IL, the daughter of Harvey Leon and Alta Marie (Page) Goodrum. She married David Wells Barker on January 26, 1974, at the First Christian Church in Hoopeston. He preceded her in death on June 8, 2007.

She is survived by her daughter, Jennifer (Jason) Judy of Hoopeston, IL; her son, Tony (Brandi) Barker of Potomac, IL; one brother, Allen (Christie) Goodrum of Hoopeston, IL; sister-in-law, Pam Barker of Greenbrier, TN; five grandchildren, Logan (Ethan) Smith, Dylan Judy, Kaylyn Hayes, and Alivia and Jaxi Barker; and her nieces and nephews, Becky (Chris) Small, Justin (Laura) Barker, Matt (Harmony) Goodrum, and Leah (Rob) Wade.

In addition to her husband, David, Lynn was preceded in death by her parents; sister, Wendy Menschel; brother-in-law, Mike Barker; and mother & father-in-law, Art & LaVonne Barker.

Lynn was a travel agent and later worked at the Vermilion County Circuit Clerks office until her retirement in 2011. She was a member of the First Christian Church Disciples of Christ in Hoopeston and also a member of the Hoopeston Jaycees where she had served as a past Sweetcorn Festival chairman. Lynn loved to travel and enjoyed going on multiple cruises, island vacations, and visiting Las Vegas. She also enjoyed crocheting and knitting.

Visitation will be held 11:00 A.M. – 1:00 P.M. Saturday, December 13, 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. Saturday, at the funeral home with Pastor Micah Mobley officiating. Burial will follow in Floral Hill Cemetery in Hoopeston.

Memorials may be made in memory of Lynn to the American Heart Association, P.O. Box 840692, Dallas, TX 75284-0692.

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

Anderson Funeral Home in Hoopeston is handling the arrangements.

Can you picture the celebration Heaven must have thrown on Sunday, December 7, 2025,

as Wade Lee Bryant came bursting into Heaven’s gates with uncontainable joy! What an

awesome homecoming celebration that must have been!

Wade was born September 18, 1993, in Danville, Illinois. He was born with a congenital

heart defect. This heart condition took him down a long road of medications, hospital

stays, and surgeries. Eventually, he was able to receive a Fontan, which helped prolong his

life and relieve some of the workload on his heart. Throughout all of this, though, Wade’s

spirit and enthusiasm for life never dulled. He filled every room with brightness and joy. To

have known Wade was to know a piece of Jesus. He enjoyed talking about Jesus with

everyone he met.

He especially loved talking about Jesus with his friends on the WBGL Morning Show with

Johnathon and Courtney. He was known for calling into the morning show to talk about all

kinds of things, but especially to talk about Night to Shine, a prom for people with special

needs put on by the Tim Tebow Foundation. Wade was royalty at Night to Shine. He was

known to have a countdown timer on his phone in anticipation of the event. He would tear

up the dance floor, smile from ear to ear, laugh the night away, and have Johnathon sneak

him in pizza for dinner. Courtney from WBGL said it best, “Night to Shine is a glimpse of

what Heaven will be like.”

Wade was never afraid to ask for what he wanted. It could be the very cup you’re drinking

from, WBGL and/or WCIC swag, or something from Amazon. He wasn’t upset if you said no,

though. He simply waited and asked again the next day. He spent countless hours putting

puzzles together with his family, playing the guitar with friends, singing at the top of his

lungs, and eating cheesecake of any kind. He also obtained a 3rd Degree Blackbelt in

Taekwondo and was the recipient of a trike through AMBUCS in Danville. He had a teacher

who always held a special place in his heart throughout the years, Diane Schultz. His

favorite Bible verse he quoted all the time was Matthew 1:21 which ends saying, “He will

save His people from their sins.”

Wade was an avid member of Second Church of Christ in Danville where he enjoyed

helping Darrell in the Tech Booth on Sunday mornings and spending time with his friends in

the 9:20 Special Friends Class lead by Lisa Knight and her amazing volunteers. Please keep

these friends in your prayers as they are saddened by the departure of their friend.

Wade would have some advice for you during this time. “Hey, don’t you give up now. No,

don’t stop praying.” And don’t forget to listen to his favorite song, Michael W. Smith’s

“Waymaker” on WBGL or WCIC.

Wade will be dearly missed by his parents, David and Wendy, his siblings, Dawn and Luke,

and his niece whom he adored beyond measure, Anastasia. He will also be dearly missed

by maternal grandparents and extended family and friends.

The family would like to send a special thank you to the hospice team at Transitions for

their time and care for Wade this year. They would also like to thank all the amazing doctors

and nurses throughout the years, but especially from the heart team and pacemaker team

in Peoria.

A visitation for Wade will be held on Thursday, December 11, 2025, from 5-8 p.m. A time for

celebration of Wade’s life will be held Friday, December 12, 2025, at noon, with Greg Taylor

officiating. Both services will be held at Second Church of Christ in Danville, Illinois. A

private burial will take place after the service Friday.

Donations in memory of Wade may be made to either of the following places: Danville

Illinois AMBUCS, PO Box 266, Danville, Illinois 61832, or OSF Healthcare Foundation, 124

SW Adams Street, Peoria, Illinois 61602. Please be sure to add in the memo line,

“Congenital Heart Center”.

“I can only imagine, when all I will do is forever, forever worship You. I can only imagine.”

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

Anderson Funeral Home in Hoopeston is handling the arrangements.

Can you picture the celebration Heaven must have thrown on Sunday, December 7, 2025,

as Wade Lee Bryant came bursting into Heaven’s gates with uncontainable joy! What an

awesome homecoming celebration that must have been!

Wade was born September 18, 1993, in Danville, Illinois. He was born with a congenital

heart defect. This heart condition took him down a long road of medications, hospital

stays, and surgeries. Eventually, he was able to receive a Fontan, which helped prolong his

life and relieve some of the workload on his heart. Throughout all of this, though, Wade’s

spirit and enthusiasm for life never dulled. He filled every room with brightness and joy. To

have known Wade was to know a piece of Jesus. He enjoyed talking about Jesus with

everyone he met.

He especially loved talking about Jesus with his friends on the WBGL Morning Show with

Johnathon and Courtney. He was known for calling into the morning show to talk about all

kinds of things, but especially to talk about Night to Shine, a prom for people with special

needs put on by the Tim Tebow Foundation. Wade was royalty at Night to Shine. He was

known to have a countdown timer on his phone in anticipation of the event. He would tear

up the dance floor, smile from ear to ear, laugh the night away, and have Johnathon sneak

him in pizza for dinner. Courtney from WBGL said it best, “Night to Shine is a glimpse of

what Heaven will be like.”

Wade was never afraid to ask for what he wanted. It could be the very cup you’re drinking

from, WBGL and/or WCIC swag, or something from Amazon. He wasn’t upset if you said no,

though. He simply waited and asked again the next day. He spent countless hours putting

puzzles together with his family, playing the guitar with friends, singing at the top of his

lungs, and eating cheesecake of any kind. He also obtained a 3rd Degree Blackbelt in

Taekwondo and was the recipient of a trike through AMBUCS in Danville. He had a teacher

who always held a special place in his heart throughout the years, Diane Schultz. His

favorite Bible verse he quoted all the time was Matthew 1:21 which ends saying, “He will

save His people from their sins.”

Wade was an avid member of Second Church of Christ in Danville where he enjoyed

helping Darrell in the Tech Booth on Sunday mornings and spending time with his friends in

the 9:20 Special Friends Class lead by Lisa Knight and her amazing volunteers. Please keep

these friends in your prayers as they are saddened by the departure of their friend.

Wade would have some advice for you during this time. “Hey, don’t you give up now. No,

don’t stop praying.” And don’t forget to listen to his favorite song, Michael W. Smith’s

“Waymaker” on WBGL or WCIC.

Wade will be dearly missed by his parents, David and Wendy, his siblings, Dawn and Luke,

and his niece whom he adored beyond measure, Anastasia. He will also be dearly missed

by maternal grandparents and extended family and friends.

The family would like to send a special thank you to the hospice team at Transitions for

their time and care for Wade this year. They would also like to thank all the amazing doctors

and nurses throughout the years, but especially from the heart team and pacemaker team

in Peoria.

A visitation for Wade will be held on Thursday, December 11, 2025, from 5-8 p.m. A time for

celebration of Wade’s life will be held Friday, December 12, 2025, at noon, with Greg Taylor

officiating. Both services will be held at Second Church of Christ in Danville, Illinois. A

private burial will take place after the service Friday.

Donations in memory of Wade may be made to either of the following places: Danville

Illinois AMBUCS, PO Box 266, Danville, Illinois 61832, or OSF Healthcare Foundation, 124

SW Adams Street, Peoria, Illinois 61602. Please be sure to add in the memo line,

“Congenital Heart Center”.

“I can only imagine, when all I will do is forever, forever worship You. I can only imagine.”

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

Anderson Funeral Home in Hoopeston is handling the arrangements.

Wayman Walker III, 70, of Hoopeston, IL, passed away at 12:13 P.M. Tuesday December 2, 2025, at Carle Hoopeston Regional Health Center. He was born on December 27, 1954, in Chicago, IL, the son of Wayman Walker II and Naomi (Miller) Walker. He married Robin Pollard on September 3, 2021, in Danville, IL. She survives in Hoopeston.

He is also survived by his mother, Naomi Walker of Austin, TX; daughter, Jada Walker of Austin, TX; son, Diamond Walker of Austin, TX; sister, Deanna Hatfield of Chillicothe, OH; brother, Reginald Walker of Champaign, IL; sister-in-law, Janice Walker of Champaign, IL; grandchildren, Zyla Fox, Lena, Lily, Jet, and Oz; and nieces and nephews, Theresa Walker of Champaign, IL, Reginald Walker II of Austin, TX, Ameena Payne of Australia; Brandon Young of Chicago, IL, Sarah Hatfield of Chillicothe, OH; Christina Hatfield of California, Nyanna Hatfield of Chillicothe, OH, and Journee Hatfield of Chillicothe, OH.

He was preceded in death by his father, Wayman Walker II.

Wayman worked at Rantoul Foods for over fifteen years. He loved music and grilling food. He especially loved his dog and enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren.

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

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

Anderson Funeral Home in Hoopeston is handling the arrangements.

John “Rich” Anderson, 83, of Danville, IL, passed away at 9:04 A.M. Friday, December 5, 2025, at his home. He was born on February 3, 1942, at home in East Lynn, IL, the son of George Francis and Joanna Edna (Mutton) Anderson. He married Donna Kay Jaynes on February 18, 1982, in Danville. She preceded him in death on March 10, 2023.

He is survived by three daughters, Lisa Howard of Danville, IL, Michelle (Chuck) Cheuvront of Tilton, IL, and Brenda (Todd) Miller of Danville, IL; one son, John Anderson (Tina Himes) of Alvin, IL; 11 grandchildren, Tabitha Thatcher, Christopher (Taylor) Lewellyn, Aaron (Laura) Lewellyn, Elizabeth Howard, Jacob (Emma) Howard, Jeremy (Megan) Cheuvront, Brandy (Kyle) Huckstadt, Jacob Miller, Lucas (Skylar) Miller, Carter Miller, and Cassidy (Austin) Lock; 11 great-grandsons; 8 great-granddaughters; and one more great-grandchild on the way. He is also survived by two nieces, Mary Jo Polson of Hoopeston, IL and Vicki (Steve) Whiteman of Stafford, VA.

In addition to his wife, Donna, Rich was preceded in death by his parents; one sister, Joanna Rush; and one brother, Jim Anderson.

Rich worked at Berkley – Davis in Danville for over thirty years. He later worked at Emulsicoat Inc. in Urbana. He then worked for Dick Clark at CDC Oil in Tilton, and farmed for Harold Miles, Dick Clark, and later Bob Beck. Rich carried on farming the Anderson family farm when he was not helping others. He was a member of the Bismarck United Methodist Church, served as a trustee for the Vermilion County Conservation District, and was the financial secretary for UAW 579. Rich was also a member of the Corvette Club, Illiana Tractor Club, and Vermilion County Water-Ski Club. He was an avid hunter, John Deere collector, and faithful blood donor, but most of all, Rich was a wonderful Dad and Grandpa.

Visitation will be held 4:00 – 7:00 P.M. Wednesday, December 10, 2025, at Anderson Funeral Home, 427 E. Main St., Hoopeston, IL. The funeral service will be held at 11:00 A.M. Thursday December 11, 2025, at the funeral home with Pastor Chris Quick officiating. Burial will follow in Johnson Cemetery in Danville, IL.

Memorial donations may be made in memory of Rich to Bismarck United Methodist Church.

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

Anderson Funeral Home in Hoopeston is handling the arrangements.  

Robert Lee Heavener, Sr., 89, of Hoopeston, IL, passed away at 7:30 A.M. Thursday, November 27, 2025, at his home. He was born on November 19, 1936, in Chicago, IL, the son of Leroy and Edrie Ellen (Thompson) Heavener. He married Sandra Jean Whitney on January 21, 1961, at St. Susanna’s Church in Harvey, IL. She preceded him in death on April 16, 2019. 

Cremation rites will be accorded, and a celebration of life will be held at a later date.

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

Anderson Funeral Home in Hoopeston is handling the arrangements.