Assumption Golden Prairie News

11/08/2024

Elizabeth “Betty” Ann Roseman, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend, went to her heavenly home surrounded by her loved ones on Wednesday, Oct. 30, 2024. A memorial service to honor Betty’s life will be held on Saturday, Dec. 7 at 1 p.m., at the Assumption Parish Hall in Assumption.

Born on February 17, 1944, to Walter and Eleanor Bradshaw in Norfolk, VA, Betty’s life was a testament of grace, love, and devotion. She married Jerry Roseman on June 9th, 1972, and they had 52 cherished years that they built together.

The heart of Betty’s legacy is her love for the Lord and her passion for serving others. She never met a stranger, and every interaction was marked by kindness, warmth, and sincerity. Betty found great fulfillment in her work at JCPenney, where she brightened each day for her colleagues and customers alike. To Betty, everyone was family, and she brought joy to all who crossed her path. Her love for hummingbirds was well-known, and now, each time we see one, we will remember her spirit that brought so much light and beauty to this world.

For 80 blessed years, Betty was a gift to those who knew her. Her faith, generosity, and compassion have left an imprint on the lives of all who knew her, and her spirit of love and service lives on in her family and friends. Although we miss her dearly, we rejoice knowing she has joined her Savior and is now in her forever home, welcomed by a heavenly celebration.

Betty is survived by her loving husband, Jerry, of Decatur; children, Barb (Brad) Wilkey, of Maroa, Debbie (Kevin) Phillips, of Indianapolis, IN, Wayne (Wilma) Roseman, of Bakersfield, CA, Tammy (Tony) Johnston, of Moweaqua, Rick (Mary) Bradshaw, of Assumption, Karen (Adam) Sims, of Shelbyville, and Dawn (Colby) Etherton, of Concord, NC; along with her 17 grandchildren and 15 great-grandchildren.
She is joyfully reunited in heaven with her parents, her sister Sharon, and by many more beloved family members and friends who touched her life.

“Well done, good and faithful servant… Enter into the joy of your Lord.” – Matthew 25:23

11/08/2024

Larry Warnick, 83, of Assumption, died November 6, 2024, in his home. A visitation will be held from 12 to 2 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 9, at Memorial Presbyterian Church in Assumption, with a Celebration of Life to follow at 2 p.m. A private graveside service will be held in Bethany Cemetery, rural Assumption, at a later time.

Larry was born on November 5, 1941, in Moweaqua, IL, the son of Charles I. and Jean (Hartwig) Warnick. He married Phyllis Pierce on November 11, 1962, in Macon. She survives. Larry worked and served in the Assumption community for many years. He was a local farmer and volunteer firefighter with the Assumption Fire Department for over 20 years and worked for the Assumption Co-op for over 30 years. Larry also worked for Sloan Implement, served on the Assumption School Board, and was a 4-H leader. Larry was a member of Memorial Presbyterian Church of Assumption and served as a church elder.

Larry is survived by his wife, Phyllis; son, Ronald E. (Emily Priddy) Warnick, of Tucumcari, NM; daughter, Joan A. (John) Mitsdarffer, of Assumption; grandchildren, Grace, Brace, and Rainey; great-grandchildren, Pierce and Cameron; and brother, John O'Farrell, of New Jersey.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

Memorials may be made to the Assumption Fire Department or the Assumption Public Library District.

Seitz Funeral Home, Assumption, has been entrusted with the care and service arrangements.

Condolences for the family may be left at www.seitzfh.com.

11/05/2024

The Pana News office will be closed Wednesday, Nov. 6.
Calls and emails will still be answered.
Sorry for any inconvenience.

11/04/2024

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of the beloved Violet Louise Millwood. Born on December 18, 1927, in Gattman, MS, Violet peacefully passed away on November 1, 2024, at her home in Castalian Springs, TN. She was 96 years old. Violet will be laid to rest on November 9, at 2 p.m. at the Pocahontas Cemetery in Carbon Hill, Alabama.

Violet, a dedicated homemaker, found joy in creating a warm and loving home for her family. She valued hard work, family bonds, and simple pleasures in life. Violet will be dearly missed by her son, Edward Millwood, daughter-in-law Bev Millwood, and daughter Suzette Berner; thirteen grandchildren; 22 great-grandchildren; and 4 great-great grandchildren.

To honor and remember Violet's remarkable life, a Graveside Service will be held at Pocahontas Cemetery on November 9, 2024, at 2:00 pm. All friends and family are welcome to join us as we pay our respects and celebrate the life of this wonderful woman.

Violet was preceded in death by: father, Luther Webb; mother, Mary Webb; husband, Everett Millwood; son, Thomas Millwood; daughter, Shari Burrus,; grandson, David Millwood; granddaughter, Deborah Millwood; great-grandson, Gage Berner; sisters, Dorothy Turner, Mary Sandford, Elizabeth Kelley,; brothers, Leon Webb, William Webb.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Violet's memory to a St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.

May her memory bring comfort and solace to all who knew and loved her.

Anderson Funeral Home, 202 E. Main Street, Gallatin, Tennessee is in charge of the arrangements.

11/01/2024

Elaine C. Weatherford, 83, formerly of Columbia, died October 26, 2024 in Carriage Crossing Senior Living, Taylorville. Funeral services will be held at 1 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 1, in Seitz Funeral Home, Moweaqua. Visitation will be one hour prior to service time.

Elaine was born on June 23, 1941 in Mayfield, KY, the daughter of Hubert Farris and Mary Loraine (Brooks) Clayton. She married Jerry D. Weatherford on August 11, 1962 in Jackson, TN. He preceded her in death on January 30, 2007.

Elaine retired from Fox C-6 School District in Arnold, MO, where she worked as an early elementary teacher and librarian. After retirement, she continued her work in education as a volunteer in the library at Parkview Elementary School, Columbia, IL. Elaine worked for H&R Block as a tax preparer and later started her own business, Elaine’s Tax Service. She was a dedicated member of Kirkwood United Methodist Church. She loved to read, solve puzzles of all kinds, and was an endless learner and teacher. Additionally, she enjoyed cross-stitching and crocheting. Most importantly, Gram cherished her family, especially her children and grandchildren.

Elaine is survived by her son, Gregory (Andrea) Weatherford, of Columbia; daughter, Laura (Michael) Seitz, of Moweaqua; grandchildren, Breck (Amanda) Seitz, of Chicago, Paige (Zachary) Ludwig, of Moweaqua, Kelsey (Sam) Lange, of East Dubuque, and Ryan (Aly York) Weatherford, of Columbia; sisters, Mary Douglass, of Brentwood, TN, and Hope Koebbe, of Kirkwood, MO; brothers, Brooks Clayton, of Jackson, TN, and John (Doris) Clayton, of Brentwood, TN; and sister-in-law, Carolyn Clayton, of Jackson, TN.

She was preceded in death by her parents; brother, Paul Clayton; sister, Martha McLaughlin; brothers-in-law, Paul Douglass, Ronald Koebbe, and Bill McLaughlin; and sister-in-law, Linda Clayton.

Memorials may be made to Columbia Public Library or First United Methodist Church of Moweaqua, c/o Seitz Funeral Homes, 118 E. Main St., Moweaqua, IL 62550.

Seitz Funeral Home, Moweaqua has been entrusted with the care and service arrangements.

Condolences for the family may be left at www.seitzfh.com.

10/28/2024

Katrina Lynn Giles, 33, of Moweaqua, passed away on October 27, 2024, in St. John’s Hospital, Springfield, IL, surrounded by family.
Graveside services will be held at 1 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 1 in Woodlawn Cemetery, Moweaqua. A celebration of life to honor Katrina will follow at the First Baptist Church of Moweaqua.

Katrina was born on May 30, 1991, in Decatur, IL, the daughter of Don and Christine (Kramer) Giles. She was nicknamed “KK” by her family and close friends. Katrina was known for her warm spirit and love of board games and puzzles, which she enjoyed with her family and friends. She had an amazing ability to make friends no matter where she was.
Surviving are her father, Don Giles; her sister, Jill (David) Oakley; her brothers: Tim Giles, Aaron Giles, and Mike (Dana) Giles; and her grandmother, Ann Kramer.
Preceding her in death are her mother, Chris Giles; grandparents, Glenn and Eleanor Giles and Robert Kramer.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in memory of Katrina may be made to the Siteman Cancer Center at Barnes-Jewish Hospital.
Seitz Funeral Home, Moweaqua has been entrusted with the care and service arrangements. Condolences for the family may be left at www.seitzfh.com .

10/25/2024

Carol J. Giles, 82, of Assumption, died on October 23, 2024, in Decatur Memorial Hospital. Graveside services will be held at 11 a.m. on Monday, Oct. 28, in Mt. Pleasant Church of God Cemetery, Assumption, IL.

Carol was born on December 27, 1941, in Assumption, IL, the daughter of Kermit and Gertrude (Walker) Stokes. She married Lyle Giles on February 5, 1960, in Assumption. He survives.

Carol is survived by her husband, Lyle; son, Bob (Nikki) Giles, of Chebanse; daughter, Lori Giles, of Normal; as well as many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents, five brothers, and a sister.

Memorials may be made to the Assumption Fire and Ambulance Service.

Seitz Funeral Home, Assumption, has been entrusted with the care and service arrangements.

Condolences for the family may be left at www.seitzfh.com.

10/25/2024

James D. Beck, 50, of Moweaqua, passed away on Tuesday, Oct. 22, 2024, at Decatur Memorial Hospital. Visitation will be from 5 to 7 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 31, at Maranatha Church. Funeral service will be 10 a.m., Friday, Nov. 1, at Maranatha. Burial will take place at a later date at Mt. Gilead Cemetery.

James was born February 7, 1974, in Decatur, IL, the son of Thomas A. and Madelyn H. (Fortner) Beck. He was a graduate of Macon High School and worked as a union sheet metal worker. James was a member of Maranatha Church and Sheet Metal Workers Union Local 218. He loved his children and loved spending time with his family.

James is survived by his children, Cassie Emmerich-Beck, of Decatur, Makenna Beck, of Moweaqua, Madison Beck, of Moweaqua, Macie Beck, of Moweaqua, and Jameson Beck, of Moweaqua; parents, Thomas and Madelyn Beck, of Elwin; sister, Amy (Jon) Bailey, of Decatur; nephews, Hayden and Christian Bailey; great-nephew, Hudson Bailey; beloved pet Marley; along with many other relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his grandparents.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations are suggested to the James Beck Memorial Fund, c/o Shelby County State Bank, 920 E, Main St, Moweaqua, IL 62550.

Moran & Goebel Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements.

Condolences and memories may be shared at www.moranandgoebel.com.

10/24/2024

🇺🇸 William “Bill” Brown, 93, of rural Macon, died October 22, 2024, at home surrounded by family. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11 a.m., Tuesday, Oct. 29, at St. Patrick Catholic Church, Decatur. Burial will be in the South Macon Township Cemetery in Macon, with military honors provided by the Macon County Honor Guard. The family will have visitation on Monday evening from 5 p.m. until 7 p.m. at Calvert & Wikoff Funeral Home, Macon. A vigil prayer service will be held at 7 p.m.

Bill was born on August 9, 1931, near Decatur, IL, the son of William and Louise (Henneberry) Brown. At age 11, he and his family moved to his thereafter home in rural Macon where he lived for 82 years. He was a lifelong farmer and a long-standing member of St. Stanislaus Catholic Church of Macon until its closure in 2003. He attended St Thomas Catholic Grade School as well as a one room country school house in rural Macon during his youth. He is a graduate of Macon High School where he played basketball and ran the hurdles in track. He was considered a conscientious and hard-working student, then went on to serve his country in the US Army.

Mr. Brown was a lifelong St. Louis Cardinals fan and greatly enjoyed watching his children in their school activities. He was a former member of the Macon County Soil and Water Conservation Service and served on the Peoples Bank of Macon’s Board of Directors for 32 years until 2012.

Bill is survived by his children, Tim Brown, of Moweaqua, Jacqueline (Brian) Fischer, of Washington, IL, Jon Brown, of Marion, and Katrina (David) Mann, of Belleville; grandchildren, Sara (Corey) Moore, of Kyle, TX, Jeremy Brown, of Moweaqua, Avery Fischer, of Washington, IL, and Cecelia Fischer, of Washington, IL; and great-grandchildren, Leo Moore and Enso Moore.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Joan Ryan Brown, parents, younger brother, Richard (Dickie), who died in childhood, and sister, Betty Holthaus.

Memorials may be made in Bill’s memory to Saints James and Patrick Parish.

Messages of condolence may be sent to the family at Calvertmemorial.com.

10/23/2024

Esther E. Gorden, 91, of Moweaqua, died on October 21, 2024, at Randall Residence, Decatur. Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. on Thursday, Oct. 24, 2024 at First United Methodist Church of Taylorville. Visitation will begin one hour prior to service time. Burial will be in Bilyeu Cemetery, Moweaqua.

Esther was born on March 2, 1933, in Maroa, IL, the daughter of Adlai and Grace (Funk) Dubson. She married Marvin Gorden on February 5, 1956 in Maroa. He survives. Esther was a member of First United Methodist Church of Taylorville and a forty-year member of Stonington Nite Home Extension Unit. She graduated from the Decatur Macon County Hospital School of Nursing in 1954 and was the Maroa Centennial Queen in 1954. Esther enjoyed music, reading, flowers, and playing pinochle with family and friends.

Esther is survived by her husband, Marvin, of Moweaqua; daughter, Melanie Hall, of Moweaqua; granddaughter, LeAnn Hall, of Moweaqua; brother, Michael Dubson, of Boston, MA; as well as several nieces and nephews and their families

She was preceded in death by her parents, brother, Reuben Dubson, sister, Sara Dubson, and son-in-law, Darrell Hall.

Memorials may be made to the Music Fund of First United Methodist Church of Taylorville and Elara Hospice.

Seitz Funeral Home, Moweaqua has been entrusted with the care and service arrangements.

Condolences for the family may be left at www.seitzfh.com .

10/21/2024

🇺🇸 Doug “Nott, Nott Head” Nottingham, age 73, of Assumption, IL, passed away October 11, 2024 with his family by his side. He was born on October 14, 1950 in Mattoon, IL to Homer Sr. and Hazel “Mert” (Wheeler) Nottingham.

Doug graduated from Shelbyville High School in 1969. He was enlisted into the United States Army from 1970-1972. His career in factory work began with nearly a decade at Borg-Warner in Decatur in the 70’s, a decade at GSI in Assumption in the 80’s, a few years at Trailmobile in Charleston in the 90’s, and a final few decades at GSI until he retired in August 2016.

As a pitcher, Doug’s fastpitch softball career began in the Army where he played competitively at a National level. He was a fierce pitcher for several Illinois Amateur Softball Association Class A and AA teams in Central IL including Decatur Perfect Window Cleaners and Assumption. His nearly 20 year softball career is decorated by countless awards and two inductions into the IL ASA Hall of Fame.

Preceded in death by: his mother and father; brother Homer “Junior” Nottingham Jr.; and grandson Jake Henschen.

Survived by: his wife of 20 years, Cathy (Henn) Nottingham; son Sean (Stacy) Nottingham; daughter Cassie (Ryan) Bishop; step-son Bob (Jennifer) Horsthemke Jr.; step-daughter Angie (Chuck) Smith; 12 grandchildren; 2 great-grandchildren; brother Steve (Mary) Nottingham; sister Martha “Marti” (Randy) Macari; brother Jeff (Eve) Nottingham; and many aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces and nephews.

A Celebration of Life will be held on November 16, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Shelbyville VFW Post 4829, 513 S. Cedar St., Shelbyville, IL 62565. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to a local Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Post.

10/09/2024

Barbara A. Collins, 92, of Moweaqua, died October 4, 2024, at Shelbyville Manor, Shelbyville. Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. on Thursday, Oct. 10, at Seitz Funeral Home, Moweaqua. Visitation will begin one hour prior to service time. Burial will be in Westside Cemetery, Moweaqua.

Barbara was born on December 1, 1931, in rural Shelby County, IL, the daughter of Tommie and Virginia (Ireland) Tucker. She married Robert A. Collins on May 6, 1948, in Paducah, KY. He preceded her in death on April 13, 2008.

Barbara was a member of First Baptist Church in Moweaqua and American Legion Auxiliary in Shelbyville.

Barbara is survived by her daughters, Judy Simpson, of Noblesville, IN, Patty (Ron) Cress, of Strasburg, and Vicky (Scott) Long, of Sullivan; many grandchildren and great-grandchildren; and brothers, Thomas Ralph (Illene) Tucker, of Decatur, and Jack Tucker, of Lincoln.

She was preceded in death by her husband, parents, son, David Collins, daughter, Janet Collins, son-in-law, Russell Simpson, and sisters, Betty Sw***er and Wilma Jean Brown.

Barbara's family would like to express their gratitude to the staff at Shelbyville Manor, St. John's Hospital, Decatur Memorial Hospital, and HSHS Good Shepherd Hospital for the exceptional care their mother received.

Memorials may be made to First Baptist Church of Moweaqua.

Seitz Funeral Home, Moweaqua has been entrusted with the care and service arrangements.

Condolences for the family may be left at www.seitzfh.com .

10/09/2024

10/03/2024

Shirley A. Cowger, 76, of Moweaqua, died September 30, 2024, at Moweaqua Rehabilitation & Health Care Center. Graveside services will be held at 2 p.m. on Tuesday, Oct. 8, in Westside Cemetery, Moweaqua.

Shirley was born on May 27, 1948, in Decatur, IL, the daughter of Norman and Betty (Edwards) True. She married Clifford E. “Butch” Cowger on August 27, 1966 in Blue Mound. He preceded her in death on February 18, 2013. Shirley loved spending time with her family and great-grandchildren.

Shirley is survived by her daughter, Lisa (Allen) Duez, of Moweaqua; grandchildren, Christopher, Brandon, Cassidy, and Spencer; great-grandchildren, Lincoln and Lainey; and sisters, Susan Rhoades and Donna Sexton, both of Assumption, IL.

Preceding her in death are her husband, parents, and son, Norman Cowger.

Memorials may be made to the family of Shirley Cowger.

Seitz Funeral Home, Moweaqua has been entrusted with the care and service arrangements.

Condolences for the family may be left at www.seitzfh.com .

09/26/2024

🇺🇸 Larry Dean Hughes, Sr., 81, of Moweaqua, died September 21, 2024 in St. Mary’s Hospital, Decatur. Funeral services will be held at 3 p.m. on Saturday, Sep. 28, in Seitz Funeral Home, Moweaqua. Visitation will be from 1 to 3 p.m., prior to service time.

Larry was born on September 20, 1943 in Irving, IL, the son of James and Harriet (Smith) Hughes, Jr. He married Janice Johnson on March 5, 1966 in DeKalb. She survives. Larry previously attended Harvest Christian Center in Decatur, IL. He proudly served his country in the United States Marine Corps from 1961 to 1964 and enjoyed splitting wood for heating.

Larry is survived by his wife, Janice, of Moweaqua; son, Larry Dean (Dora) Hughes, Jr., of Brazil, IN; grandchildren, Nicholas, Alexandria, Bailey, and William; brothers, Stan Hughes, of Hillsboro, and Ronnie (Connie) Hughes, of Sheridan; and sister, Phyllis Uhlny, of Hillsboro.

He was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Russell; sister, Shirley; and son, Jeffery Hughes.

Larry would like for you to plant a tree or give to your favorite mission project in his memory.

Seitz Funeral Home, Moweaqua, has been entrusted with the care and service arrangements.

Condolences for the family may be left at www.seitzfh.com.

09/26/2024

🇺🇸 Gregory Eugene Smallwood, 75, of Kingsport, TN, fell asleep on Monday, September 16, 2024, and is awaiting the Return of his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

Born on June 10, 1949, in Taylorville, Illinois, Greg lived a rich and full life, residing in Illinois, Georgia, and Upstate New York. He pursued many careers with passion, including Tree Surgeon, General Contractor and Facilities Coordinator. Gregory proudly served his country in the United States Army, completing three tours in Vietnam as an Air Traffic Controller.

Known for his big heart and strong work ethic, Greg was a man who found joy in the outdoors, especially in hiking and camping. He was skilled in woodworking and built much of his family's furniture by hand. A talented problem-solver, he loved fixing things and had a knack for it. His true passion, however, was Biblical research and his deep love for God was evident in all aspects of his life. Above all, Greg cherished his family and his country.

Greg met the love of his life, Maureen, at a Bible fellowship in 1984, and the two were married in 1985. Together they built a life filled with love, faith and family.

Greg is preceded in death by his father, James Smallwood; his mother, Mildred Smallwood and his brother, William Smallwood.

He is survived by his beloved wife of nearly 40 years, Maureen Smallwood; son, Nick (Elissa) Smallwood; sister, Rosalie (Donnie) Shuck; brothers, Jim (Penny) Smallwood and Phil (Rosemary) Smallwood; numerous nieces, nephews, and extended family.

He will be greatly missed by family and friends.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, Oct. 12. Fellowship will begin at 1:30 p.m., with a service at 2 p.m., followed by a time of gathering and remembrance.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to the Appalachian Trail Conservancy in Greg's memory.

Arrangements are being handled by Trinity Memorial Centers Funeral Home, (423-723-8177), who are honored to serve the family during this time.

09/24/2024

🇺🇸 Dwight LeRoy (Buster) Burrus, 103, of Assumption, died September 22, 2024, in his home surrounded by family.Graveside services will be held at 11 a.m. on Monday, Sep. 30, at Pleasant View Cemetery in Assumption.

Dwight was born on May 5, 1921, in Owaneco, IL, the son of Richard and Etta Chloe (Shippey) Burrus. He married Mary E. Beard on January 17, 1942, in Arnold, MO. She preceded him in death in 2001. Dwight later married Marilyn Groh in 2008; she preceded him in death in 2015.

Dwight was a member of the IBEW out of Decatur, retiring after 35 years from Superior Electric as their General Foreman. He flew planes for the Civil Air Patrol in the late 1940s, performing rescue searches. Dwight was a member of the VFW Tacusah Post #6577 and a lifelong member of the NRA. He served his country in the United States Air Force during WWII, first building airstrips on Ascension Island, making it possible for planes to refuel while carrying troops to Africa. Dwight then served a total of five years in Africa with the Air Force.

Dwight was an avid fisherman who loved traveling, hunting, and camping. He enjoyed fishing all over the country but spent most of his time on Lake Shelbyville.

Surviving are his son, Mike Burrus, of Moweaqua, and daughter, Susan (John) Morrissey, of Taylorville; six grandchildren, John E. (Michelle) Morrissey, of Taylorville, Jennifer (Tom) Vogel, of Glen Ellyn, Andrea Tomasello, of Assumption, Randy (Monica) Burrus, of Assumption, Christopher Burrus, of Clarksville, TN, and Kevin Burrus, of Clarksville, TN; as well as 15 great-grandchildren, Leighton, Xanna, Danny, Michelle, Brayden, Alyse, Mary, Chloe, Eva, Will, Colten, Gabriel, Jonathan, Taiylor, and Zachariah.

Preceding him in death were his wives, son, Phillip “Phil” Wayne Burrus in 1999, brothers, Karl and Loren, sister, Ethel, and infant brother, Vernon.

Seitz Funeral Home has been entrusted with the care and services.

Condolences for the family may be left at www.seitzfh.com.