Gent Funeral Home

09/11/2025

August E. “Augie” Westbrook, 92, died at 5:41 a.m. Thursday, September 11, 2025 at Cedarhurst of Godfrey. Born August 23, 1933 in Alton, he was the son of Mary E. (Westbrook) Wilson. He retired from Ameren U.E. in 1994 as a line construction supervisor after 38 years of employment. Many of those years he was a lineman, which he excelled at. He was a born-again Christian, charter member of Heartland Baptist Church of Alton where he served in many capacities. Surviving is a son, Todd Westbrook (Kelly) of Decatur, IL, granddaughters, Suzette M. Bowling (Wilson), Whitney Pretz (Ryan) of Poplar Bluff, MO, grandsons, Matthew Westbrook, Brannon Westbrook (Andrea) and Adam Westbrook, and 7 great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his wife, Barbara J. Westbrook of 62 years, his parents, one brother, Herbert Westbrook, a son, David W. Westbrook and a daughter, Rebecca S. Ribbing. Visitation will be from 12:00 noon until time of funeral service at 3:00 p.m. Saturday, September 13, 2025 at Gent Funeral Home in Alton. Pastor Alex Melton will officiate. Burial will be private. Memorials may be made to the Gideons International or Heartland Baptist Church. Online guestbook and information may be found at www.gentfuneralhome.com

09/03/2025

Christopher Allen Zerwas, 66, of Alton, IL, passed away peacefully at home on August 31, 2025 surrounded by his loving family. He was born on April 9, 1959, to Paul and Eugenia Zerwas.

Chris, known affectionately by many as Boogie, was a proud graduate of Marquette Catholic High School and later attended trade school in Houston, Texas, where he trained with the Carpenter’s Union. He went on to work as a journeyman carpenter for 45 years, known for his strong work ethic and skill in his trade.

An avid fisherman lovingly nicknamed “the crappie whisperer,” Chris found joy in being on the water and sharing his love of fishing with others. He had a natural gift for problem-solving—if he didn’t already know how to fix something, he would spend hours learning until he figured it out. No task was ever too big or too small. Above all, Chris was devoted to his family and will be remembered for always putting them first.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Paul and Eugenia Zerwas, and his brother, Preston Zerwas.

Chris is survived by his loving wife, Tracy; his daughters, Tara Zerwas and Lauren (Andrew) Newbold; his son, Jared Zerwas; and his beloved granddaughters, Ava, Adelynn, Ella, and Emilia Newbold. He is also survived by his siblings David (Twyla) Zerwas, his sister Stephanie Bilenko, his sister Lisa (Jim) Heithaus, and sister-in-law Minnie Zerwas-Stalker, as well as many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews who loved him dearly.

A Mass of Christian burial will be at 10:00 a.m. Saturday, September 6, 2025 at St. Ambrose Catholic Church in Godfrey. Father Steven Janoski will officiate. Burial will be at St. Patrick’s Cemetery in Godfrey. Memorials may be made to St. Ambrose School or Marquette Catholic High School. Gent Funeral Home in Alton is in charge of arrangements. Online guestbook and information may be found at www.gentfuneralhome.com

09/03/2025

Phyllis Morrison Baulos, 73 years old, was born in Alton, IL, on May 17th, 1952. She joined the Lord on August 29th, 2025, in Alton, Il. Phyllis was a loving daughter, sister, mother, grandma, great grandma, aunt, and friend to many. She was kind, smart, just a little bit sassy, and a constant source of comfort. She lived her life with arms wide open, always ready to offer a hug and a listening ear. Her door was always open to those in need, and she was a second mom and grandmother to many, generously sharing her love and care with all who were fortunate to know her. A true lover of people, Phyllis enjoyed "people watching" and window shopping, and could often be found listening to her favorite audiobooks or spending time surrounded by family. Phyllis leaves behind her daughter, Becky Baulos (Joe Foland) of Alton, IL; granddaughter, Hayley (Chris) Biondi of Collinsville, IL; grandson, Douglas (Tess) Miller of Benld, IL; and great-granddaughters Lydia and Lucy Biondi of Collinsville, IL. She is also survived by her sister, Kim (Lee) Dick of Alton, IL, as well as many beloved nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends, including Donna (Bobby) Jones, Amanda Dick, Andrew Dick (Jared Ragan), Jeremy (Sandra) Welch, Jackie (Damon) Parish, Heather (AJ) Carpenter, Daniel (Hannah) Parish, Ashley (Kenny) Brown, Jonah Parish, Louis Jones, Elliot Jones, Parker Brown, and longtime best friend, Kim Neff. Proceeding her in death are her parents, Hoy and Dorothy Morrison, sisters, Donna Morrison and Betty Welch, and great nephew, Christian Viola. Phyllis’s memory will live on in the love, laughter, and kindness she shared with all who knew her. While she is gone, the warmth of her heart will remain with us. Visitation will be from 5 to 8 p.m., Wednesday, September 3, 2025 at Gent Funeral Home in Alton. Funeral service will be at 10:00 a.m., Thursday, September 4, 2025 at Gent Funeral Home, with Lee Dick officiating. Burial will be at Oak Grove Cemetery in Jerseyville. Memorials made to Gent Funeral Home. Online guestbook and information may be found at www.gentfuneralhome.com

09/03/2025

David Allen Bush, 88, died at 5:26 a.m. Friday, August 29, 2025 at his home. Born July 10, 1937 in Alton, he was the son of Henry R. and Edith M. (Carpenter) Bush. Mr. Bush retired from the Plumbers and Pipefitters Union #562 in Earth City, MO. Surviving are two daughters, Donna McCormick of Godfrey and Debra Schetter of Dow. Along with his parents he was preceded in death by a son, Terry A. Bush. Per his wishes he was cremated, and no services are scheduled at this time. Gent Funeral Home in Alton is in charge of arrangements. Online guestbook and information may be found at

The passing of a loved one is a difficult time. We are here to help you honor and celebrate their life, and to begin the healing process for your family.

09/03/2025

Carolyn (Ash) Gibbons, 82, passed away peacefully on August 27th, surrounded by her loving family. She was born on July 2, 1943, in Murphy, North Carolina, to Harry and Ruth Ash. The family invites all who knew and loved Carolyn to a Celebration of Life on Sunday, October 5, 2025, from 1 to 3 pm at Rolling Hills Golf Club in Godfrey, IL. Together we will share memories and honor a life well lived. Carolyn dedicated much of her life to caring for others, working as a surgical nurse at St. Anthony’s Hospital in Alton. Her compassion, steady presence, and professionalism left a lasting impact on her patients and colleagues alike. Beyond her career, Carolyn lived with energy and joy. She loved the game of tennis and spent countless hours on the courts, forming lifelong friendships along the way. For her, the game was as much about community as competition, and her circle of friends became like family. We thank God for giving us eighty-two years with our mom. Family was Carolyn's greatest pride and joy. Through her, we witnessed what it truly means to put family first. She made sure we always knew we were loved. She was a patient, loving, and deeply involved grandmother-the mom and grandma who always showed up with a warm hug, a listening ear, and something good on the stove. She also loved family vacations—full of fun, laughter, and adventure. Whether it was exploring new places or jumping on the wildest roller coaster, Carolyn was always up for the ride. She never missed a moment in her grandchildren’s lives—hockey games, baseball tournaments, volleyball matches, or musicals—you could count on Grandma to be in the stands, smiling with pride and cheering them on. She and Grandpa delighted in hosting overnight stays, even on school nights, where laughter filled the house and her famous fried chicken and chocolate pie were always on the menu. Even as Alzheimer’s slowly took her memory, Carolyn’s light shone through in smiles, laughter, and her loving outlook. Our family is profoundly grateful to the friends and relatives who visited her, took her on outings, and brought joy into her days. To her tennis and golf league friends, we appreciate your compassion in including her as long as you did. And to the staff at Stillwater Senior Living, your care, kindness, and love was priceless. You became our extended family, and for that we are forever thankful. And of course, thank you for the toast and jelly! She was preceded in death by her husband, William (Bill) Gibbons; her parents, Harry and Ruth Ash; her brothers, Edward and Gerald Walker and Stanley Ash. She is survived by her children, Kimberly (Brad) Haug and Scott (Sara) Gibbons; her stepchildren, David (Susan) Gibbons and Deborah Ross; her five grandchildren, Brennan and Brayden Haug, Kailin (Bryan) Hudson, Ben and Sam Gibbons; her sisters-in-law, Mary (Dave) Eckhouse, Patricia Gibbons, and Charlene Walker; her treasured niece Jenny Tullier; and many more cousins, nieces, and nephews who loved her dearly. Carolyn will be remembered for her kindness, her strength, and the love she so freely gave to family and friends. We take comfort in knowing she is now at peace, free from pain and confusion, and held in God’s embrace. Her legacy lives on in the hearts of those she touched. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to fund Alzheimer’s research at www.brightfocus.com. Gent Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. Additional information and online guestbook may be found at www.gentfuneralhome.com

08/27/2025

Dateline: Godfrey
Alice Ann “Sani” Varble, 92, died at 10:37 a.m. Tuesday, August 26, 2025 at La Bella of Alton. Born March 20, 1933 in St. Mary’s, Pennsylvania, she was the daughter of Ralph E. and Martha (Hanes) Lawson. She was a member of St. Ambrose Catholic Church in Godfrey and retired from Alton Memorial Hospital, Alton as a Nuclear Medicine Technician in 2002. Mrs. Varble was a professional opera singer and sang with the Midland Repertory Players. She was a member of Sweet Adelines and St. Mary’s Church Choir and was an avid St. Louis Cardinal baseball fan. On May 22, 1954 she married Herbert Hoover Varble in Alton. He preceded her in death on April 10, 2015. Surviving is a daughter, Susan Vandevord (Dan) of Alton, two sons, Greg Varble (Leann) of Godfrey, and Ralph Varble, 8 grandchildren and 7 great grandchildren. Along with her parents and husband, she was preceded in death by a brother, Gene Lawson and a sister, Jody Kennedy. Visitation will be from 4:00-8:00 Friday, August 29, 2025 at Gent Funeral Home in Alton. A mass of Christian burial will be at 10:00 a.m. Saturday, August 30. 2025 at St. Ambrose Catholic Church in Godfrey. Father Steve Janoski will officiate. Burial will be at St. Patrick’s Cemetery in Godfrey. Memorials may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association or St. Ambrose Catholic School. Online guestbook and information may be found at

The passing of a loved one is a difficult time. We are here to help you honor and celebrate their life, and to begin the healing process for your family.

08/27/2025

Sylvester John Sievers, 92, died at 5:16 p.m. Tuesday, August 26, 2025 at his home in Godfrey. Born April 30, 1933 in Calhoun County, he was the son of Stanley and Clara (Keim) Sievers. Mr. Sievers served in the U.S. Army and retired from McDonnell Douglas as a plant supervisor. He loved making custom cabinets for many people in the area and enjoyed camping and fishing with his grandsons. On February 14, 1953 he married the former Emma Caroline Carpenter in Hardin, IL. She preceded him in death on September 2, 2019. Surviving is a daughter, Susan Gillson (Louis) of Centerville, OH, a son, John Sievers (Carol) of Godfrey, six grandchildren, Joshua Sievers of Fergoson, MO, Samuel Sievers (Amanda) of Edwardsville, KS, Michael Sievers of Festus, MO, Steven Gillson of Dayton, OH, Dustin Gillson (Janet) of Dayton, OH, and Brett Gillson of Dayton, OH, and one great grandchild, Elijah Sievers. Also surviving are two brothers, Jerome Sievers (Betty) of Batchtown, Kenneth Sievers (Pam) of Batchtown, two sisters, Angeline Klaas (Virgil) of Batchtown and Irene Walendorf of Batchtown, and two beloved sisters-in-law, Alice Adams of Godfrey and Sandy Carpenter of Godfrey. Visitation will be from 9:00 a.m. until time of service at 11:00 a.m. Tuesday, September 2, 2025 at Gent Funeral Home in Alton. Pastor Sam Sievers will officiate. Burial will be at Valhalla Memorial Park in Godfrey. Memorials may be made to Upward Basketball at Calvary Baptist Church in Alton. Online guestbook and information may be found at www.gentfuneralhome.com

08/19/2025

Gregory C. Narup, 73, died at 4:15 a.m. Saturday, August 16, 2025 with family by his side in Alton. Born November 18, 1951 in Alton, he was the son of Ralph and Ethel (Christian) Narup. He worked for Alton Refrigeration as a service technician, as well as The Alton Park & Recreation Department in Park Maintenance. He was a longtime supporter of Marquette Catholic High School where he earned the Servium Award. Greg was the true embodiment of what it meant to bleed blue. He was behind the camera at many a football game, and scoreboard for basketball. His two daughters were third generation alumni, a tradition he was proud to continue. Many would also remember his love of classic cars. Whether it was organizing a car cruise or sitting next to his prized 1950 Chevrolet truck at a car show. On July 21, 1976 he married Cynthia Wallace, and she survives. He is also survived by his two daughters, Amy Smith (Jaymie) of Godfrey and Rachel Narup of Alton; four grandchildren, Jackson and Kasey Smith, Mason Gernigin and Emma Zarantonello. Along with his parents, he was preceded in death by a brother, Samuel Arnold, and three sisters, Jeanette McAndrew, Patricia Cowie and Diane Lindsey. Visitation will be from 10:00 a.m. until time of funeral service at 12:00 noon, Saturday, August 23, 2025 at Gent Funeral Home in Alton. Pastor John Waters will officiate. Burial will be at St. Patrick’s Cemetery in Godfrey. Memorials may be made to Marquette Catholic High School in Alton. Gent Funeral Home in Alton is in charge of arrangements. Online guestbook and information may be found at www.gentfuneralhome.com

08/06/2025

Dateline: Alton
John Robert Puckett, 59, died at 1:28 p.m. Tuesday, August 5, 2025 at his home in Alton. Born August 1, 1966 in Alton, he was the son of Robert Harry and Carol Jean (Edmiaston) Puckett. John was a nurse for OSF St. Anthony’s Healthcare Center. Surviving is a sister, Janet Fortin (Mike) of Kane, an aunt, Faye Edmiaston of Bethalto, and numerous cousins. Along with his parents, he was preceded in death by his partner, Chris Kassak and a sister, Jennifer A. Puckett. Visitation will be from 10:00 a.m. until Nurse Honor Guard Service at 12:00 noon on Saturday, August 16, 2025 at Gent Funeral Home in Alton. Memorials may be made to the Nurse Honor Guard. Online guestbook and information may be found at www.gentfuneralhome.com

07/17/2025

James “Jake” Edward Gross, 84, died at 6:12 a.m. on Monday, July 14, 2025 at OSF St. Anthony’s Hospital. He was born December 14, 1940 in Alton, the son of the late Paul William and Mary Elizabeth (Lyons) Gross. Jake served in the Army Reserves for 6 years and was a member of St. Ambrose Catholic Church in Godfrey. He worked for many years in Industrial sales. On February 12, 1966 in Alton, he married Cheryl Ann Ragusa and she survives. Also surviving are one brother, David Gross (Leona) of Florissant, MO and one sister, Jan Bloodworth of Lakeland, TN. Besides his parents he was preceded in death by three brothers, Paul Gross, Rodger Gross and Dennis Gross. Visitation will be from 9:00 a.m. -10:45 a.m. on Thursday, July 24, 2025 at St. Ambrose Catholic Church Community Center followed by a Mass of Christian burial at 11:00 a.m. at St. Ambrose Catholic Church. Father Steven Janoski will officiate. Memorials may be made to St. Ambrose Catholic Church, Wounded Warrior Project, Tunnel to Towers or charity of choice. Additional information and online guestbook may be found at www.gentfuneralhome.com

07/16/2025

Angelena Mary Ull, 85, died at 5:18 p.m. Monday, July 14, 2025 at Alton Nursing & Rehab. Born April 29, 1940 in Glen Carbon, IL, she was the daughter of Elmer and Angelina (Caminiti) Trebing. Mrs. Ull retired as a secretary for the Alton School District. Surviving is a son, Todd Cravens, four grandchildren, Brandon Wheeler, Sarah White, Hannah Dyer, and Austin Cravens, eight great grandchildren, Ethan, Alex, and Noah White, Logan, Dagan, and Gavan Wheeler, Theodore and Penelope Dyer, and two great great grandchildren, Everly Wheeler and Caleb White. Along with her parents, she was preceded in death by two daughters, Kelly Cravens in infancy and Valorie (Wheeler) Davies. Graveside services will be at 10:00 a.m. Monday, July 21, 2025 at Upper Alton Cemetery. Reverend Willard Meyer will officiate. Memorials may be made to the American Cancer Society. Gent Funeral Home in Alton is in charge of arrangements. Online guestbook and information may be found at www.gentfuneralhome.com

07/16/2025

Lyndel Lee Hopper, 82, died at 2:09 p.m. Monday, July 14, 2025 at Jerseyville Manor. Born September 15, 1942 in Athensville, IL, he was the son of Glenn and Edna (Duckwiler) Hopper. Mr. Hopper served in the U.S. Army and retired in 1997 as supervisor of gas operating for Union Electric. On November 23, 1963 he married the former Kay Louise Warren in St. Louis, MO. She survives. Also surviving are two daughters, Christine Hamblin (Allan) of Godfrey, and Michelle Hopper of Alton, two sons, Mark Hopper (Debbie) of Ballwin, MO, and David Hopper (Harmony) of Lake Villa, IL, four grandchildren, Matthew, Jordyn, Aiden and Gavin and three sisters, Juanita Fessler, Marylin Hardwick and Marjorie Early. Along with his parents, he was preceded in death by two brothers, Richard Wayne Hopper and Glenn J. Hopper. Visitation will be from 9:00 a.m. – 10:45 a.m. Wednesday, July 23, 2025 at the St. Ambrose Community Center followed by a Mass of Christian burial at 11:00 a.m. at St. Ambrose Catholic Church. Father Steven Janoski will officiate. Burial will be at St. Patrick’s Cemetery in Godfrey. Memorials may be made to St. Ambrose Catholic Church. Gent Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. Online guestbook and information may be found at www.gentfuneralhome.com