Walker Funeral Home & Crematory of Southern Illinois

09/24/2025

William Lee Eberhardt — West Frankfort, Illinois
With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of William Lee Eberhardt, who left this world on Friday, September 19, 2025, surrounded by his loving family.
Born on February 12, 1942, in Orient, Illinois, Bill was the cherished son of the late Cecil and Mary (Sheppard) Eberhardt. A man of quiet strength and deep devotion, Bill built a life centered around family, hard work, and love.
In 1994, Bill married the love of his life, Vicki Jo Morrison. Together, they shared over 26 wonderful years of marriage until her passing in August 2020. Their bond was a true partnership, marked by laughter, loyalty, and unwavering support.
Bill was a proud and devoted father to his children:
James Eberhardt and partner Loretta Bean of DuQuoin, IL; Joe and Dianna Eberhardt of DuQuoin, IL; Mary Eberhardt of DuQuoin, IL; Lora Eberhardt of Murphysboro, IL; Misti Eberhardt of Murphysboro, IL; Cecil Eberhardt of DuQuoin, IL; Lee Larington of Omaha, NE; Bill and Melissa Larington of McCook, NE; and Karen and Nathan Southwell of Kingman, AZ.
He was a beloved grandfather to a large and loving group of grandchildren:
Emma and Christian Olson, Nile Larington, Tom Larington, Zal Larington, Julene Larington, Paul and Brittany Larington, Audrey and Josh Stevens, Nathan Stonwell, Anthony and Pam Winrow, Mark Meister, Adelaide Reyes, Joseph Oldham, Ashley and Mike Dimmer, Rachael Hays, Tom Larington and partner Sarah Murphy, Chris and Aimee Larington, Brigham and Elise Larington, Molly Grace Larington, Leo Larington, Ellenor Rose Larington, Brooke Eberhardt, Brett Eberhardt, Aaron Eberhardt, Bart Eberhardt, Samantha Conklin, Bridgett Conklin, Tabitha Conklin.
Bill also leaves behind many extended family members and close friends who brought joy to his life and will carry his memory forward.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Cecil and Mary Eberhardt, and his beloved wife, Vicki Jo.
Bill was a man who found his greatest joy in the presence of his family. He had a deep love for his children and grandchildren, and nothing made him prouder than seeing them grow and thrive. His kind heart, steady presence, and warm smile will be dearly missed by all who knew him.
A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date, where family and friends will gather to remember and honor Bill’s life.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Walker Funeral Home and Crematory of Southern Illinois.

09/02/2025

Betty Jean Odum - Anna
Betty Jean Odum entered into the arms of her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, on September 1, 2025, with her family by her side.

She was born November 27, 1927, in Harrisburg, Illinois, the beloved only child of Rev. Tracy T. and Sylvia McCord. Betty’s early years were spent in Harrisburg and Kankakee, and she later attended Shelbyville High School, where her father pastored the Church of the Nazarene. She went on to Olivet Nazarene College, earning a Bachelor of Science degree in Education with a minor in Music.
In 1945, Betty married James W. Walker in Roxana, Illinois. Together they had two children, James Tracy Walker and Jil Walker Tracy. She later married Dr. Don Odum, and they were blessed with a son, Matthew Odum.

Betty devoted her life to teaching. She went on to earn a Master of Science in Education at Southern Illinois University at Carbondale. She taught English at Carbondale High School, where she also served as the faculty sponsor of the Dial yearbook for many years. After raising her children, she returned to teaching and dedicated herself to adult education well into her 80s. Through her tireless work, countless students earned their GEDs and went on to achieve employment and better lives across Southern Illinois.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Dr. Don Odum; and her son, James Tracy Walker.

She leaves behind a loving family, including her daughter, Jil Walker Tracy, and son-in-law, Jim Tracy; son Matthew Odum; her daughter-in-law, Tamra Walker; her grandchildren Rob and Natalie Tracy, Ben and Annie Tracy, Rev. Father Mark Tracy, Kelsey and Travis Cope, and Kailey and Joe Maier; and Eleven great-grandchildren—Molly, Sloane, Benjamin, Remi, Ruthie, Tripp, Trent, Brooks, Jimmy, Tommy and Connor —who were her pride and joy.

A gifted musician, Betty faithfully served as a church pianist throughout her life, retiring from her role as pianist of the Anna Church of the Nazarene in her 90s. She taught adult Sunday School for decades, leading many families to Christ, and joyfully shared her music with residents of The Voyages in Anna. She was also deeply devoted to worldwide mission work through her church.
Above all, Betty’s life was a witness to her deep faith in God. She loved her family fiercely, cherished playing hymns for worship, and inspired all who knew her with her unwavering devotion and kindness. She was truly one of a kind and will be deeply missed.

Visitation will be held Friday, September 5, from 5:00–7:00 p.m. at Walker Funeral Home in Carbondale. Funeral services will be at 11:00 a.m. Saturday, September 6, at Anna Church of the Nazarene, 100 Kirk Street, Anna, Illinois 62906.

Memorial donations may be made to the Anna Church of the Nazarene.

Walker Funeral Home of Carbondale is entrusted with arrangements.

08/29/2025

Eugene “Gene” Clark Bramlet – Carbondale

Eugene “Gene” Clark Bramlet of Carbondale passed away on August 28, 2025, in Carbondale, Illinois.
He was born in Harrisburg, Illinois on November 13, 1944, the son of the late Herbert Lee and Mary Ann (Clark) Bramlet.
Gene is survived by children, Beth Robertson and Brad (Tatum) Bramlet; and his grandchildren, Erin Robertson, Garrett Robertson, Avery Bramlet, and Madison Bramlet.
He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Mike Bramlet.
Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Walker Funeral Home of Carbondale.

08/20/2025

Jo Anne Ledbetter – Carbondale
Jo Anne Ledbetter, 67, of Carbondale, passed away on Thursday, August 14, 2025, at Memorial Hospital in Carbondale, surrounded by love.
Born on December 15, 1957, in Newark, New Jersey, Jo Anne was the daughter of the late Linzie and Joan Adelle (Dougherty) Ledbetter. From an early age, Jo Anne strived for excellence in everything she pursued. She had a natural gift for performance and spirit, becoming a cheerleader in her youth and continuing well into adulthood. In 1984, she achieved her dream of becoming a professional cheerleader for the New Jersey Generals, also known as the Brigadiers.
Jo Anne loved to dance and had a graceful energy that drew people to her. She also enjoyed tennis and was especially proud to have been taught the sport by renowned American tennis champion Althea Gibson. During her college years, she was honored to be part of the stage production The Wiz, an experience she always cherished.
A dedicated and hardworking woman, Jo Anne built a career that spanned more than four decades. She worked with New Jersey Belt in the 1980s, served the Carbondale community through Walmart for over 13 years, and later joined AETNA, where she retired in July 2024 at the age of 66. Beyond her professional life, Jo Anne had a deep love for history and an unshakable passion for knowledge, which she generously shared with her family and friends.
She is survived by her loving daughter, Joan Ledbetter; her brother, Linzie Ledbetter; and her cherished grandchildren, Lauren and Melanie. Jo Anne was preceded in death by her parents and her son, Denny Ledbetter.
A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date to honor Jo Anne’s remarkable spirit and legacy.
Walker Funeral Home & Crematory of Southern Illinois is entrusted with arrangements.

08/12/2025

Wanda Outlan, 88, of Carbondale, Illinois, passed away peacefully on August 12, 2025, at her home, surrounded by the love of her family.
Born on July 5, 1937, in Oates, Missouri, to the late Marion and Alice (Kent) Dunn, Wanda grew up with a deep love for family, nature, and the simple joys of life. On December 23, 1967, she married the love of her life, Everett Outlan, in Carbondale, Illinois. They shared more than 14 years of marriage before his passing on August 3, 1982.
Wanda’s life was a tapestry of love, hard work, and devotion. She was blessed with a large and loving family, who brought her endless pride and joy. She is survived by her children: Lloyd (Sue) Estes, Alice Seals, Linda Mandrell, Jack Estes, Robin (Paul) Robinson, and Eliza (DeWayne) Hellberg; 21 grandchildren; 39 great-grandchildren; and 2 great-great-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her beloved husband, Everett; her daughter, Ilene Fowler; her son, Joe Estes; two great-grandchildren; two sons-in-law; and six siblings.
Wanda had a green thumb and could make anything grow—her gardens and plants were a reflection of the care and patience she gave to all living things. She loved the outdoors and, for many years, could be seen joyfully riding her scooter around the neighborhood, a tradition she kept up until the age of 70.
Above all, Wanda’s greatest treasure was her family. Whether it was a large gathering or a quiet afternoon, her happiest moments were spent surrounded by her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren. Her love and laughter will echo in their hearts forever.
Graveside services will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Friday, August 15, 2025, at Hagler Cemetery in Pomona, Illinois. Walker Funeral Home of Alto Pass is entrusted with the arrangements.

08/11/2025

Charlotte Chapman-Niehaus
April 13, 1934 - August 9, 2025

Charlotte Marie Skuta Chapman-Niehaus of Carbondale, Illinois, passed away peacefully in the company of family on Saturday, August 9, 2025. She was 91.

Charlotte was born on April 13, 1934, in West Frankfort, Illinois, the daughter of John and Susie (Marko) Skuta. Charlotte graduated from West Frankfort High School in 1952.

Charlotte loved country dancing, shopping, adored her grandchildren and great grandchildren, and was a member of Our Savior Lutheran Church in Carbondale for over 60 years. She lived between Ft. Myers, Florida and Carbondale for many years. She helped to manage her first husband’s businesses and owned rental properties throughout her lifetime.

Charlotte is preceded in death by the two loves of her life. Charlotte married Hubert Chapman on July 15, 1957 in West Frankfort, Illinois. They were married for 39 years before his passing on January 31, 1997.

Charlotte married Clarence Niehaus on October 30, 1999 in Carbondale. They were married for 20 years before his passing on July 15, 2020.

Charlotte was also preceded in death by her parents, eight siblings (brothers George, Charles, John and Richard, and sisters Irene Morthland, Emma Pelker, Dorothy Baldi, and Sue Ann Clifford), one grandchild (Derek Peterman), and one great-grandchild (Luke Chapman).

Charlotte is survived by her loving family: daughter Gail (Mike) Peterman of Carbondale, Illinois; son Scott (Jana) Chapman of Carterville, Illinois; son Bryan (Janis) Chapman of Winter Springs, Florida; six grandchildren, including Jenna Shultz, Justin Peterman, Jessica Chapman, Bradley (Samantha) Chapman, Stephen Chapman, and James Chapman, two great-grandchildren, Bentley and McKenna Shultz; and two step-great-grandchildren, Lynnex and Logan Webb.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00am on Saturday, August 16, 2025 at Pleasant Grove Memorial Park in Murphysboro, Illinois. Pastor Robert (Bob) Gray of Our Savior Lutheran will officiate. Walker Funeral Homes of Carbondale is entrusted with arrangements.

Memorials can be made to Hospice of Southern Illinois.

07/26/2025

Beverly Jo Calvert – Hurst
Beverly Jo Calvert, 70, of Hurst, Illinois, passed away peacefully on July 17, 2025. She was born on May 31, 1955, and was a proud graduate of Herrin High School, Class of 1973.
Beverly dedicated many years of service to the community through her work at the Bank of Herrin in Carterville and her volunteer efforts with the Hurst Fire Department. Known for her gentle spirit and warm smile, Beverly touched the lives of many with her kindness and compassion.
She will be remembered as one of the sweetest souls anyone could ever hope to meet—soft-spoken, loving, and devoted, especially to her beloved daughter, Kelli Jo Calvert, who preceded her in death and remained the center of her heart.
Beverly was preceded in death by her parents, Jack and Irene Calvert; her brothers, Brian and Michael Calvert; and her uncles: William “Floyd” (Ruth) Smith, Bob (Ruth) Smith, and Jerry Davie.
She leaves behind her cherished Aunt Shirley Davie; cousins; Cindy Nevatt, Kevin and Beth Davie, Andrew Davie, Melinda Haynes; and Aunt Julie and Harold Haynes; along with many other dear family members and friends who will hold her memory close.
Visitation will be held on Saturday, August 2, 2025, from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. at Walker Funeral Home in Hurst, Illinois. Funeral services will follow at 11:00 a.m., with Associate Bill Harper officiating. Interment will take place immediately after at Blairsville Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Blairsville Cemetery in her memory.
“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.”
— Matthew 11:28
Walker Funeral Home of Hurst is entrusted with arrangements.

07/17/2025

Haleigh Elizabeth Mincey – Cambria

Haleigh Elizabeth Mincey was born sleeping on July 8, 2025, at Barnes Jewish Hospital in St. Louis, Missouri. She was the beloved daughter of Noah Mincey and Selena Lepinske.
Though her time with us was brief, Haleigh touched the hearts of all who awaited her arrival. She is deeply loved and remembered by her grandmother, Michelle Baxter of Cambria; grandparents, Don and Andrea Lepinske of Cambria; and great-grandparents, Paul and Nancy Sorgen of The Villages, Florida. She will also be forever cherished by her aunts, uncles, and many extended family members and friends.
Haleigh will always be remembered as our precious fairy princess.
Graveside services will be held on Saturday, July 26, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at Oakland Cemetery in Carbondale, with Caleb Swartz officiating.
Memorial contributions may be made in Haleigh’s honor to:
Tender Mercies Foundation
43 Brian Avenue
Murphysboro, Illinois
"Most people only dream of angels – I held one in my arms."
Walker Funeral Home of Carbondale is entrusted with arrangements.

07/07/2025

William “Bill” Vaughn
Carbondale, Illinois
William “Bill” Vaughn, age 82, of Carbondale, passed away peacefully on July 3, 2025, at Memorial Hospital of Carbondale with his beloved family by his side.
Bill was born on March 11, 1943, in Carbondale to the late William Ronald Sr. and Mary Alice (Lockabee) Vaughn. On August 29, 1963, he married the love of his life, Joyce Hicks, and together they shared more than 62 wonderful years of marriage built on faith, love, and family.
A man of great heart and devotion, Bill had a deep passion for sports and coaching. He especially loved playing and coaching softball. One of his proudest moments was leading the DeSoto 4-H team to a state championship—a memory he cherished dearly. Above all, Bill’s greatest joy in life was his family. He was a proud and loving father who never missed a moment to cheer on his sons and grandchildren, especially when it came to motocross racing with his sons.
Bill and Joyce shared a love of adventure and spent countless joyful days traveling the country in their motorhome, camping and exploring the beauty of the United States together.
Bill leaves behind his loving wife, Joyce Vaughn of Carbondale; his devoted children: Jeff (Tammy) Vaughn and Marty (Amber) Vaughn, both of Carbondale; his cherished grandchildren: Taylor Vaughn (Luc Damian), Brendan Vaughn (Larkyn Rexroat), Ryleigh Vaughn, Marritt Vaughn, and Mason Vaughn; and great-grandchildren: Kai Qualls, Grayson Damian, and Bennett Damian, all of Carbondale. He is also survived by his siblings: Walter Vaughn and Bernice (Bob) Davenport of Carbondale; sisters-in-law: Norma Langan of Carbondale and Lynn Biggs of Florida; nieces and nephews: Shannon (Doug) Anderson of Florida; Sherry Swalek of Texas, Lex Nausley, and Michelle Mason of Carbondale, Mike and Kathy Shackleton of DeSoto, Illinois and Patrick and Nettie Langan of Carbondale.
He was preceded in death by his parents and nephew, Rusty Biggs.
A visitation will be held on Wednesday, July 9, 2025, from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at Murdale Baptist Church in Carbondale. Funeral services will follow at 1:00 p.m. with Reverend Paul Hicks officiating. Interment will be held at Murdale Gardens of Memory in Murphysboro.
Bill’s life was one filled with love, laughter, and unwavering dedication to those he held dear. His memory will live on in the hearts of all who were blessed to know him.
In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be made to: Murdale Baptist Church, 2701 West Main Street Carbondale, Illinois 62901.
Walker Funeral Home and Crematory of Southern Illinois have been entrusted with arrangements.

06/13/2025

In Loving Memory of Mary Louise “Sissy” Johnson
April 2, 1939 – June 8, 2025

Mary Louise Johnson, lovingly known as “Sissy,” age 86, passed away peacefully on Sunday, June 8, 2025, at Odin Health Care in Odin, Illinois. Born on April 2, 1939, in Murphysboro, Illinois, Mary was the cherished daughter of the late Arthur Douglass and Melba Catherine (Roberts) Glenn.
A proud graduate of Carbondale Community High School, Class of 1956, Mary lived a life defined by compassion, creativity, and devotion to her family and community. She married Ray Johnson on November 16, 1958, and although the marriage later ended in divorce, they shared the joy of raising two sons together.

Mary’s career path reflected her deep care for others—serving as a waitress, a 911 dispatcher, a homemaker, and a talented cook. But it was in the warmth of her home and in the joy of creating that she truly thrived. A master of the needle and thread, Mary loved sewing, cross-stitching, and all things crafty. She was a member of Home Extension and a devoted 4-H leader who generously shared her talents by teaching cake and candy making classes. Many in the family learned to sew under her gentle guidance.

Mary’s love for reading was as diverse as her interests—she devoured mysteries, adventure novels, historical reads, and had a special fondness for cookbooks. But nothing brought her greater joy than visits from her children and grandchildren. She proudly spoke of her nine grandchildren and countless great-grandchildren, often sharing stories and accomplishments, especially of one grandson whose service at the Pentagon filled her heart with pride. She never missed a chance to talk about him, his military career, and always had a picture and updates close at hand.
Mary had a special bond with her brother, William Arthur “Bill” Glenn of Texico, Illinois, who was born on her ninth birthday—a fact she playfully reminded him of often, especially since it meant she didn’t get her fried chicken that year. In their later years, they lived together, cared for one another, and shared in their love of crafts. When asked who his favorite sibling was, Bill never hesitated: “Siss.”

Mary is survived by her beloved sons, Michael Allen Johnson of Hicksville, Ohio, and Steven Ray (Shelli) Johnson of Texico, Illinois; her loving siblings, Carole Ann Carlock of Murphysboro, IL, Brenda Kay (Doug) Turner of Carrollton, GA, and her brother and best friend Bill Glenn; sister- in- law Jeanette Glenn of Carbondale, Illinois; nine grandchildren; many great-grandchildren; and a host of nieces, nephews, and extended family who adored her.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her baby sister Wilma; siblings Carl Eugene and Barbara Sue; her former husband, Ray Allen Johnson; and her daughter-in-law, Julie Johnson and brother-in-law Jack Carlock; nephew Jackie Dean Carlock.

Mary’s life was a beautiful tapestry of love, laughter, and legacy. She touched many hearts, taught many hands, and left this world a better place because of her presence.

Graveside services will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, June 28, 2025, at Dillinger Cemetery in Carbondale, Illinois.

Memorial donations may be made to: Way of the Cross Ranch Ministries 15882 East Knox Road Mt. Vernon, Illinois 62864

Walker Funeral Home & Crematory of Southern Illinois is entrusted with arrangements.

06/06/2025