Sunset Funeral Home, Memorial Park, and Cremation Center

04/30/2026

04/29/2026

Mary Ellen Evans

Mary Ellen Evans, 89, of Rantoul, passed away on Monday, April 27, 2026. She was born in Loda, IL, on December 25, 1936, the daughter of Daniel and Leona Jacobs. She married Howard C. Evans on May 3, 1956, and they spent 61 wonderful years together before his passing in 2017.

Mary Ellen is survived by her children, Jeff Evans, Janelle (Andrew) Cahoon, Jill Evans, Jadon (RoseMary) Evans; grandchildren: Christina Cahoon, Ross Cahoon, Jeremy Evans, Danielle Evans, Austin Evans, Nicole Reed, Alex Evans, Sean Evans; 6 great-grandchildren; and one brother, Robert “Bobby” Jacobs.

She is preceded in death by parents, daughter Joy Evans, and siblings, Clyde “Bud” Jacobs, Doris Pritchett, Bill Jacobs, Ralph Jacobs, Judy Fry, John Jacobs, and Kenny Jacobs.

Mary Ellen had a gentle spirit, which was shown in her love for gardening, baking, and spending time with family.

Mary Ellen Evans will be remembered as a kind and caring person whose heart was always with her family and her hobbies that brought her joy. Her presence will be missed by those who had the pleasure of knowing her.

A service honoring Mary Ellen’s life will be held at 11:00 AM on Thursday, May 7, 2026, at Sunset Funeral Home and Cremation Center’s Lux Chapel, 1551 E. Grove Ave. Rantoul, IL 61866. Following the service, she will be laid to rest at Maplewood Cemetery. Visitation will be held immediately before the service from 10-11:00 AM at the funeral home.

Memorial donations may be made in Mary Ellen’s name to the Alzheimer’s Association.

Please join Mary Ellen’s family in sharing memories, photos, and videos on her tribute wall at www.sunsetfuneralhome.com.

View Mary Ellen Evans's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

04/29/2026

Carol Ann Parker

Carol Ann Parker passed away peacefully on Monday, April 27, at 10:20 p.m. at the Haven of Tuscola in Tuscola, Illinois. She was 82 years old.

Carol was born on December 16, 1943, in Urbana, Illinois, to John M. and Mary (Reinhart) Parker. An only child, she never lacked for family — she grew up surrounded by cousins and the Graham and Gibbs families next door, bonds she cherished for the rest of her life.

Carol was a lifelong resident of Rantoul and knew the community like few others did. Friends and neighbors regularly called her just to ask questions about its history and people. She graduated from Rantoul Township High School in 1961, and she loved helping to organize class reunions. She retired from Chanute Air Force Base in 1988 and then devoted herself to carrying on the family legacy, running John Parker Advertising Co. until her death — a business that served Central Illinois for 71 remarkable years. Wherever she went, she carried a pen and notepad from John Parker Advertising or one of its many customers. She attended Illinois State University, and as an adult, was a member of the Delta Rho Business Sorority, and she was a lifetime member of St. Malachy's Catholic Church in Rantoul.

Carol had a gift for people. She was easy to talk to, curious, and quick to laugh. She loved to travel to visit family and cousins, and she always knew the best places to eat. Wherever you had been, she wanted to know: What did you eat? She kept mental tabs on the lives of everyone she loved, always ready with an update on a mutual friend or a fond memory. She preserved those memories carefully, through scrapbooking and photographs that captured the people and moments she held dear.

Carol never forgot a birthday, an anniversary, or a milestone, and she made sure you knew it — a card in the mail, a thoughtful gift, and a Christmas morning with no shortage of packages to open. Her birthday parties drew crowds of people who adored her. While Carol was known for her generosity, the greatest gift to her was simply being surrounded by those she loved.

Carol was preceded in death by her parents, John M. and Mary (Reinhart) Parker, and her stepmother, Juanita Mitchell Parker.

She is survived by her step-niece, Linda (Keith) Shade, and the many cousins of the Parker, Quinlan, and Reinhart families, along with countless friends who will miss her warmth, her laughter, and her gift of making everyone feel remembered.

The family extends its deepest gratitude to Vicki Miller, Cindy Burke, and the entire staff of the Haven of Tuscola and Transitions Hospice for the compassionate care and support they provided to Carol.

Family and friends are invited to a visitation at St. Malachy's Catholic Church in Rantoul on Tuesday, May 5, at 10 a.m., followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 11 a.m. Burial will follow at 2:30 p.m. at St. Mary's Cemetery in Pesotum. Sunset Funeral Home and Cremation Center's Lux Chapel 1551 E. Grove Ave. Rantoul, IL 61866, is assisting the family with funeral arrangements.

In lieu of flowers, send donations to the Henry J. Smith Trust for Support of St. Malachy School or the Rantoul Historical Museum.

Please join Carol's family in sharing memories, photos, and videos on her tribute wall at www.sunsetfuneralhome.com.

View Carol Ann Parker's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

04/29/2026

Connie Sue Spicer

Bismarck – Connie Sue Spicer, 79, of Bismarck, passed away at 6:00 AM on Monday, April 27, 2026, at Heritage Health of Hoopeston. She was born on September 13, 1946, in Danville to Melvin “Blackie” R. and Doris L. (Holycross) Blackford. She married her husband of nearly 61 years, Ronald “Ron” L. Spicer on June 13, 1965, in Danville. He survives.

Also surviving are three sons, Jeff Spicer, Greg (Jennifer) Spicer, and Chad (Teresa) Spicer; eleven grandchildren, Chase Gossett-Spicer, Jacob Spicer, Brittany (Dylan) Logue, Kirklin Spicer, Colton Wolf, Regan (Thomas) Heck, Logan (Mackenize) Spicer, Alexis (Quentin Derousse) Spicer, Gage Spicer, Trenton Spicer, and Jaxon Spicer; nine great grandchildren, Karmi Heck, Lizzie Kearns, Greyson Spicer, Lillian Spicer, Ethan Logue, Ellowyn Spicer, Kinsley Derousse, Hadley Logue, and Evelyn Spicer; a brother, William (Cheryl) Blackford; and several cousins who were very special to her.

She was preceded in death by her parents, and a nephew, Bill Blackford II.

Connie was a longtime member of Bismarck United Methodist Church where she enjoyed being involved in the congregation’s activities and had served as the Chairperson for the Outreach Committee. However, many will remember Connie as their “Avon Lady,” having served as an Avon representative in the area for 36 years until her retirement. Her regular visits to her clients during her career allowed her to make numerous lifelong friends that she kept in touch with. Connie especially loved to be active in the lives of her kids and grandkids as they grew up in the area and cherished the time she was able to spend with her family.

A service to celebrate the life of Connie Sue Spicer will be held at 11 AM on Tuesday, May 5, 2026, at Bismarck United Methodist Church, 115 S. Chicago Ave., Bismarck, IL 61814. Pastor Chris Quick will officiate. Visitation will be held from 4-7 PM on Monday, May 4, at Sunset Funeral Home and Cremation Center, 3940 N. Vermilion St., Danville, IL 61834.

Please join Connie’s family in sharing memories, photos, and video of her life through her tribute wall at www.sunsetfuneralhome.com.

View Connie Sue Spicer's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

04/27/2026

Dale E. Myers

Dale Eugene Myers passed away at 8:14 am on Saturday, April 25, 2026, at his daughter Karen Hager's home in Round Lake Beach, IL.

Dale was born on a farm in rural Homer, IL, on May 6, 1928. He was the son of Glen Ervin Myers and Dollie Opal Hixenbaugh Myers.

He grew up on a farm, attending a rural one room schoolhouse. He attended Odgen High School and graduated from Oakwood Township High School. He attended a 2 year business college in Danville, IL.

He is survived by his son, Robert Alan Myers, daughter, Karen Lynn Hager (Johannes), granddaughter, Kristina Mitchell (Jay), grandson, Justin Hager, a step grandson, Robert Turkowiecz, step great granddaughter, Jacqueline Mitchell and step great grandson, Jacob Sanchez.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Nora Vernell Myers, son, Glen Dale Myers, two

daughters-in law, Lynn Y. Myers and Marie Myers, a step grandson, Mark Turkowiecz, brother, Merle Myers and sister, Evelyn Goggans.

Dale was a bookkeeper for Thompson Lumber Company in Champaign for 11 years, then formed his own company, building homes in the Champaign/Urbana area for over 20 years. He was also a building manager for the First United Methodist Church in Champaign for a few years, which he had been a member since 1961. He found time to serve his community by being a trustee of the First United Methodist Church Board of Trustees. He also served as a Board member of the former Champaign County Credit Bureau and Champaign County Children’s Home.

Dale enjoyed camping with his wife for a number of years with their van and pull trailer. They visited 46 states across the United States. They also enjoyed their winters in Texas with R-VICS ( Roving Volunteers in Christ’s Service) renovating homes for the needy. He was also a member of the TWT (Tues., Weds and Thurs) group with the members of the FUMC.

A Graveside Service to honor Dale’s life will be held at 1:00 pm on Saturday, May 9, 2026, at Pleasant Grove Cemetery in Oakwood, IL. Sunset Funeral Home and Cremation Center Champaign Chapel 710 N. Neil St. Champaign, IL 61820 is assisting the family with arrangements.

Memorials in celebration of Dale's life may be sent to First United Methodist Church in Champaign.

Please join Dale's family in sharing memories, photos, and videos on his tribute wall at www.sunsetfuneralhome.com.

View Dale E. Myers's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

04/27/2026

Loretta Lee Cox

Loretta Lee (Knight) Cox, 87, of Tilton, IL passed away on April 21, 2026, at home with her family by her side.

Loretta Lee (Knight) Cox was born on July 28, 1938, in Danville, IL, the third child of Ralph and Gwendolyn Knight of Bismarck, IL. On February 14, 1958 she married Joseph Cox in Bismarck, IL.

Growing up, Loretta attended Bismarck Schools and after high school graduation she worked at the Palmer American Bank in Danville, IL.

Survivors include her husband, Joseph Cox of Tilton, IL, their son, Joseph Todd Cox, who was born in 1963, her grandsons, Justin Cox, Jared Cox and Jayden Cox as well as her great-grandchildren, Ava Cox and Jaxon Cox. She is also survived by her brother, Kenneth Knight, sisters, Mary Elizabeth Depratt, and Barbara Olmstead and many other relatives.

She was predeceased in death by her parents, brothers, Dr. John Knight, Richard H. Knight, William J. Knight, and Edward Knight.

A Celebration of Life will begin at 11:00 AM on Saturday, May 16, 2026 at Southside Church of Christ, 611 Forrest Street, Danville, Illinois 61832.

Please join Loretta’s family in sharing memories, photos, and videos of her life through her tribute wall at www.sunsetfuneralhome.com.

View Loretta Lee Cox's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

04/26/2026

Lewis "Bill" Cooper

Lewis “Bill” Cooper, born April 13, 1956, in Danville, Illinois, passed away on April 24, 2026, in Georgetown, Illinois. A proud Marine, Bill was a devoted family man who cherished spending time with his loved ones and was always ready to lend a hand to friends with their projects. He especially enjoyed traveling with his family, with Tennessee being a favored destination.

Bill is survived by his wife, Sheila (Johnson) Cooper; son, Billy Cooper; stepson, Mark (Donna) Lappin; grandchildren Chad Nichols, Gage Lappin, Brock Lappin, and Joel Lappin; great-grandson Ryder Lappin; siblings Shirley Hardesty, Rose Lawyer, Helen Hardesty, and Ron (Char) Cooper; numerous nieces and nephews; and cherished dogs Vinnie and Bandit.

He was preceded in death by his father, George Cooper Sr.; mother, Gertrude (Shepard) Cooper; stepson, Jared Lappin; and siblings Scott Dearing, Dewy Cooper, Barbara Midcap, George Cooper Jr., Alice Truax, Richard Cooper, Carolyn Kiezmann, Deborah Cooper, and James Cooper.

Visitation will be held on April 29, 2026, from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at Sunset Funeral Home & Cremation Center, 200 E West St, Georgetown, Illinois. The funeral service will follow at 12:00 p.m. with Pastor Dave Martin officiating. Burial will take place Thursday April 30, 2026, at 2:00p.m. at Danville National Cemetery, 1900 East Main Street, Danville, Illinois. Bill’s legacy of kindness and dedication to those he loved will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Please join Bill’s family in sharing memories, photos and videos on his tribute wall at www.sunsetfuneralhome.com.

Sunset Funeral Home and Cremation Center, 200 E West St. Georgetown, Illinois 61846, is honored to be caring for the family.

View Lewis "Bill" Cooper's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

04/25/2026

Richard L. Salrin

Richard L. Salrin, 86, of Oakwood, IL passed away at OSF Sacred Heart Medical Center in Danville, IL on April 21, 2026 at 4:04 PM.

Richard was born on April 7, 1940 the son of Charles Russell and Ethel (Burgett) Salrin in Fairmount, IL. He married Dorothy “Sue” Thompson on February 23, 1975 in Danville, IL and she preceded him in death on January 30, 2009.

Survivors include his brother, Edd Salrin of Arkansas, one brother-in-law, John Thompson of Danville, IL, one niece Judy (Frank) Lucas of Sidell, IL, two nephews, Doug Salrin of Fairmount, IL and Scott Salrin of Arkansas as well as several great nieces and nephews and great great nieces and nephews.

Richard is preceded in death by his parents, wife, Sue Salrin and his daughter, Mellissa Salrin, one sister, Josephine Salrin and one brother, James Salrin.

Richard retired from the Maintenance Department at the Illiana Veteran’s Affairs Medical Center in Danville, IL. He was a member of Trinity Lutheran Church in Danville, IL and served his country in the Army Reserves. In his younger years he traveled the Midwest as a sheep shearer and was an avid horseshoe player. He also enjoyed spending his free time hunting, fishing, spending time with his family and attending his nieces, nephews and great nieces’ and great nephews’ sporting events.

A Celebration of Life will be held at 10:00 AM on Monday, April 27, 2026, at Sunset Funeral Home and Cremation Center in Danville, Illinois, 3940 N Vermilion St. Danville, Illinois 61834. Pastor Kent Tibben will officiate. Burial will be in Lutheran Cemetery. Visitation will be held from 9-10:00 AM on Monday, April 27, 2026 at the funeral home in Danville, IL.

Memorials may be made in Richard’s memory to Trinity Lutheran Church in Danville, IL.

The family invites you to share memories, photos, and messages of comfort on his tribute wall at www.sunsetfuneralhome.com .

View Richard L. Salrin's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

04/24/2026

Each year, we honor Arbor Day by planting a new tree in our Memorial Park—a small tradition that continues to grow in meaning. This year, we added a beautiful paperbark maple near our swan pond, creating another peaceful spot for reflection and remembrance. 🌳

04/23/2026

Roger Dean Bowling, born February 13, 1955, in Crawfordsville, Indiana, passed away peacefully on April 20, 2026. He was a man devoted to his family, his community, and the many interests that brought joy to his everyday life.

Roger’s life was characterized by his enduring love for the outdoors and sports. He was an avid gardener and took great pleasure in mowing and maintaining his yard. A dedicated sports enthusiast, he followed the LA Dodgers, Indiana University, and Chicago Bears with heartfelt enthusiasm.

View Roger Dean Bowling's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

04/23/2026

Bette Ann Brown (née Hill), 92, died peacefully, Sunday, April 19, 2026, at the Villas of Holly Brook in Danville, IL.

Bette was born October 21, 1933, the only child of Opal (Colvin) Hay. On April 6, 1952, she married Dale D. Brown in Danville, IL. They celebrated 55 years of marriage together before his death in June 2007.

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04/21/2026

Elmer Christians

Elmer Lee Christians, 92, passed away on Sunday, April 19, 2026, surrounded by his family at Carle Hospital.

He was born on February 6, 1934, in Rantoul Township to Ernest and Trientje (Huls) Christians. He married Violet Siewert on February 5, 1972. She preceded him in death on March 4, 1994.

Elmer is survived by daughter, Kary Phelps, St. Anne; grandchildren, Jorgi (Mark) Hughes and Chad Siewert; great-grandchildren Wyatt and Levi Hughes; nephew David Christians; nieces Lorinda Grisham and Julie Sibley along with numerous great nephews and nieces.

He was preceded in death by his parents, brother Herman, wife Violet, son Kurt Siewert, and nephew Byron (Pam) Christians.

Elmer attended country schools in the Flatville area and lived his life working the ground of his ancestors as a faithful farmer. He loved driving around, particularly checking on fields from planting through harvest. Elmer was a trusted, loyal friend who enjoyed being with his family and friends, playing cards, and having coffee with several groups over the years. He was a member of Peace Lutheran Church, Thomasboro and a life member of the Moose Fraternity.

Visitation will be held at Sunset Funeral Home and Cremation Center’s Lux Chapel 1551 E. Grove Ave. in Rantoul on Monday, April 27, 2026, from 10 am - 12 pm with a funeral service at 12 pm. Burial will immediately follow at Beckman Cemetery.

Memorials may be made to Peace Lutheran Church or donor’s preference.

Please join Elmer’s family in sharing memories, photos and videos on his tribute wall at www.sunsetfuneral home.com.

Arrangements have been made at Sunset Funeral Home and Cremation Center's Lux Chapel 1551 E. Grove Ave. Rantoul, IL. 61866.

View Elmer Christians's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.