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Colonial Terrace Funeral Home, 700 4th Street, Eldorado, IL (2026)

05/26/2026

Dennis L. Mahaffey, 84, resident of Eldorado, passed away on Sunday, May 24, 2026 while hand in hand with his girls by his side. Dennis was born in Muddy, Illinois on April 2, 1942 to the late Melvin and Marie (Lofink) Mahaffey. He attended College Heights Baptist Church. Dennis was a simple man in the very best sense of the word. You could often find him driving his truck with the windows rolled down, one arm casually resting out the window, dressed in his signature overalls. He was a hardworking family man with a heart of gold who loved his family deeply and treasured every moment spent with them. His quiet kindness, steady presence, and love for those around him will be dearly missed by all who knew him. He is survived by his daughters, Julie (Scott) Boyd of Eldorado and Denise Maloney of Eldorado; sister, Jacquie Coffee of Chicago; brother-in-law, Tom (Pat) Dillard of Florida; grandchildren, Cristin (Ryan) Townsend of Eldorado, Casey Maloney of Eldorado, Janna (Michael) Brantley of Edwardsville, Tyler Maloney of Eldorado, and Lucas (Megan) Weir of Eldorado; great-grandchildren, Carter Townsend, Kollin Maloney, Tanner Townsend, Maggie Wiseman, Elara Brantley, Jovi Weir, Scottie Brantley, and Judd Weir; several nieces and nephews; as well as special friends and neighbors, Bert and Letha Ashby of Eldorado, who went above and beyond in caring for their neighbor and dear friend. In addition to his parents, Dennis was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Elizabeth (Dillard) Mahaffey; sister, Donna Mahaffey; and sister-in-law, Mary Diefenbach. Visitation will be held Wednesday, May 27, 2026, from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Colonial Terrace Funeral Home in Eldorado. Funeral services will be held Thursday, May 28, 2026, at 11:00 AM at the funeral home with Alex Parks officiating. Burial at Oak Grove Cemetery will follow. The family would like to express their appreciation to Dr. Oldham and staff and the staff of Ferrell Hospital for their amazing care. Condolences and expressions of sympathy may be shared with the family at www.colonialterracefuneralhome.com

05/20/2026

Barry Richard “Ricochet” Vickers, 80, resident of Herod, passed away with son and daughter in law by his side, Monday, May 18, 2026, at his residence. Barry was born on January 1, 1946, in Springfield, Illinois, to the late William Riley and Evelyn Rella (Foster) Vickers, and proudly held the distinction of being the first baby born in Springfield that year. Barry was an outdoorsman to his very core. He found happiness in the simple things life offered — fishing quiet waters, hunting in the woods, birdwatching, gardening, and caring for horses. He also enjoyed watching NASCAR, especially cheering on Jeff Gordon, and was a devoted fan of the Green Bay Packers. Barry loved throwing picks, collecting and hunting Native American artifacts, and riding his trike motorcycle wherever the road would take him. In his later years, he found special joy and comfort in raising and caring for his beloved chickens, which became one of his greatest daily pleasures. Known affectionately as “Ricochet,” Barry lived life on his own terms, with a free spirit, a love for nature, and a deep appreciation for the people and pastimes he cherished most. Barry is survived by his son, Shannon (Kelly) Vickers of Erie, Illinois; several siblings, with special honorable mention to his beloved brother, William “Bill” (Devina) Vickers of East Moline; grandchildren, Katelynn Vickers, Hunter Jones, Gavin Jones; great-grandchildren, Olivia Lawler and Madison Lawler and a baby girl on the way as well as several nieces, nephews, and cousins, including two very special mentions, Cathy Cowan and Cynthia Skelton. In addition to his parents, Barry was preceded in death by his longtime life partner, Brenda Carter, who no doubt is now sharing a margarita on the beach with Barry in paradise. In accordance with Barry’s wishes, he will be laid to rest at Colbert Cemetery, and there will be no services. Condolences and expressions of sympathy may be shared with the family at www.colonialterracefuneralhome.com

05/13/2026

Brenda F. Justice, 83, resident of Eldorado, passed away Wednesday, May 13, 2026 in Evansville, Indiana. She was born in Anna, Illinois on December 5, 1942 to Warren and Alma (Millikan) Rizner. Brenda is survived by her only son, Preston (Stephanie) Justice of Raleigh, grandchildren; Ansley (Elliott) Daymon, Dylan Justice, Creed Justice, great grandchildren; Destinee Justice, Justice Counts, Peyton Daymon, Taylor Daymon, and Dylan Justice Jr. Brenda was preceded in death by her parents, Warren and Alma Rizner. In accordance with Brenda’s wishes, she will be cremated and there will be no services at this time. Condolences and expressions of sympathy may be shared with the family at www.colonialterracefuneralhome.com

05/04/2026

Erika Dawn Mitchell, 31, of Carrier Mills, passed away on Friday, May 1, 2026, at Harrisburg Medical Center. Erika was born on June 23, 1994, in Murphysboro, Illinois, to Joseph Todd Mitchell and Angela Dawn Mitchell. She married her husband, Cory Michael Benefield, on October 25, 2024. Together, they shared a loving home with their six beautiful young children, whom Erika devoted herself to with deep joy and purpose. Erika had a passion for baking, a love for sunflowers, and cherished spending time outdoors with her family. She took great pride in being a homemaker, creating a warm, welcoming home filled with comfort, laughter, and care. Through home-cooked meals, thoughtful touches, and her constant presence, she made her house a place of love and security for her family. She will be remembered for her warmth, her nurturing spirit, and the love she gave so freely to those around her. She is survived by her husband, Cory Benefield; her sons, Leston, Mickey, and Oliver; her daughters, Navy-Grace, Kennedy, and Paisley; her mother, Angela Dawn Mitchell; her brother, Joseph Mitchell; and her nephew, Landon Joseph. Erika was preceded in death by her beloved father, Joseph Todd Mitchell; her grandfather, Lesley Mitchell; and her angel babies, who she held close in her heart and carried with her in quiet love every day. In accordance with her wishes, Erika will be cremated. There will be no services at this time. Condolences and expressions of sympathy may be shared with the family at www.colonialterracefuneralhome.com

05/01/2026

Barbara N. Sisky, age 87, of Harrisburg, Illinois, passed away peacefully at her home, surrounded by her family, on April 30, 2026. She was born on October 2, 1938, to Roy and Gladys (Slaton) McClusky. Barbara is survived by her siblings: Mary Turner, Gary McCluskey, and Toby McClusky. Her children: Karen (Greg) Cowger of Carriermills Illinois; Janet Crews of Omaha, Illinois; Kevin Sisky of Michigan; Kim Thompson of Harrisburg, Illinois; and Johnny (Becky) Sisky of Oregon. Her grandchildren: Richard (Brittany) Cooper of Browns, Illinois; Crystal (Brian) Ellinghausen of Mt. Carmel, Illinois; Tiffany Hayes of Carrier Mills, Illinois; Amber (Josh) Gibbs of Washington, Indiana; Melissa (John Curtis) Thompson of Ledford, Illinois; Hannah (Noah) Tippy of Harrisburg, Illinois; Kevin Sisky of Michigan; and Nick Cowger of Carrier Mills, Illinois. Barbara is further survived by her great-grandchildren: Shelby Gallamore; Alexis and Mackenzie Smith; Jonathan Williams; Elizabeth and Zayla Hayes; Jordan Curtis; Emmett Tippy; Krista Cowger; Kaylee, Rylee, Cori, and Tynzlee Cooper; Maysa Moore; and Brevin and Blaize Oxford; Paislee Cowger as well as 13 great-great-grandchildren. Barbara was a devoted mother, grandmother, and friend whose love for her family was the center of her life. She found her greatest joy in raising her children and surrounding herself with those she loved. Known for her warm heart and quick sense of humor (you know what this means), Barbara had a special gift for making everyone around her laugh. Her presence brought comfort, joy, and a sense of home to all who knew her. Her children and grandchildren especially cherished her gift for storytelling. Barbara had a way of bringing stories to life that captured their hearts and imaginations, and they loved gathering around to listen to her. She carried a beautiful, childlike spirit that stayed with her throughout her life, allowing her to connect deeply with her grandchildren. She spent some of her very best days making them laugh, sharing joy, and creating memories they will hold onto forever. She spent part of her working years at John’s Cafe, where she was known for her kindness and strong work ethic. But more than anything, Barbara devoted her life to caring for her family and creating a loving home. Barbara was strong in her faith and carried her love for the Lord throughout her life. She shared that faith with her children and grandchildren, often telling them stories and passing down wisdom that will continue to live on through them. She was a lifelong coffee drinker, always ready with a warm cup and an open heart, welcoming conversation and connection with those around her. Barbara’s love for family reflected the words of scripture she held dear: “Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins.” — 1 Peter 4:8. She was preceded in death by her siblings: Brenda Hefner, Betty Riley, Bob and Chuck McClusky. grandchild Cody Cowger and great-great-grandchild Greyson Brown. She will be remembered as a beautiful soul, a loving mother and grandmother, and a woman whose strength, faith, and laughter touched many lives. A private service will be held at a later date. Condolences and expressions of sympathy may be shared with the family at www.colonialterracefuneralhome.com

04/29/2026

Mila Shaun Abell, 15 days, resident of Ridgway, passed away on Sunday, April 26, 2026 at St. Louis children’s Hospital in St. Louis, Missouri. Mila was born in Newburgh, Indiana on April 11, 2026 to Lauryn Abell. Mila is survived by her mother, Lauryn of Ridgway, sister, Eden Will, grandparents; Kristi Abell, Johnny Abell, Shannon Sauls, great grandparents; Irma Moye, Helen Abell, Patricia Lane, and aunt, Morgan (Jonathan) Hale. She was preceded in death by her uncle, Michael Abell, and great grandparents; Noble Moye, John Abell, and Bill Lane. Though present for only two weeks, this precious baby was surrounded by profound love from the very beginning. In that short time, she brought immeasurable joy to her family and left an enduring imprint on every heart she touched. Her life, however fleeting, was filled with tenderness, hope, and a bond that will never be broken. Funeral services will be held on Thursday, April 30, 2026 at 11:00 am at the First Baptist Church in Ridgway with Rev. Scott Luckett officiating. Burial at Jackson Cemetery will follow. Condolences and expressions of sympathy may be shared with the family at www.colonialterracefuneralhome.com

04/27/2026

Paul James Hubbs, 68, of Cave-in-Rock, passed away peacefully on Sunday, April 26, 2026, in Marion. He was born September 4, 1957, in Rosiclare, to the late Ezra and Mary Hubbs. Paul was a man defined by humility and resourcefulness. He was an accomplished auto body mechanic - who had a natural talent for fixing almost anything that was broken. Eventually he took this talent to a new level and attended mortuary school at Southern Illinois University Carbondale graduating in 1999 as a licensed funeral director and embalmer. He devoted himself to serving families during their most difficult moments, always offering care with dignity, grace, and quiet strength. In time, Paul stepped away from his profession to answer an even more personal calling—caring for his own family. His decision to retire in order to tend to his ailing mother reflected the depth of his love and the generosity of his servant’s heart. Outside of his work and family life, Paul found enjoyment running nets, hunting, and spending his spare time working with his hands and helping others whenever he could. He will be remembered for his tenacious spirit, fiery presence, and unwavering humility. He is survived by his children, Douglas Hubbs, Daniel Hubbs, and Maya Hubbs; his cherished grandchildren, Dawson, Morgan, Kory, Andrew, Autumn, and Adler; and his siblings, Rose Hubbs, Ezra (Curtis) Hubbs, Zelda (Kay) Hubbs, Loren Hubbs, Timothy Hubbs, Burton Hubbs, and Michael Hubbs. He was preceded in death by his parents. Graveside services will be held Wednesday, April 29, 2026, at Mt. Zion Cemetery near Cave-In-Rock at 4:30 p.m. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Mt. Zion Cemetery and will be accepted at the graveside. Condolences and expressions of sympathy may be shared with the family at www.colonialterracefuneralhome.com.

04/24/2026

Donald Lee Daniels, 69, of Eldorado, passed away peacefully at his home on Thursday, April 23, 2026. Donald was born on December 25, 1956, in Jacksonville, Florida, to the late Claude Reese and Wilma Louise Daniels. On October 25, 1984, he married the love of his life, Barbara Sue Warren, and together they built a life filled with love, laughter, and cherished memories. Donald worked as a painter, a trade he took great pride in. He was known for his strong work ethic and the care he put into everything he did. Outside of work, Donald found joy in the things he loved most—his family, his interests, and the simple pleasures of life. He had a deep appreciation for Native American culture, especially eagles, and he was a devoted fan of the Florida State Seminoles. Above all, he loved spending time with his family and took great delight in spoiling his beloved wife. He is survived by his devoted wife, Barbara Daniels; his children, Tamara (Bruce) Briddick, Veronica (Joel) Johnson, Tammie Jo (Mike) Keene, Carrie Daniels, and Gary (Clara) Turbeville; and his many grandchildren, Ashley (Raj Peacock) Wideman, Jake Wideman, Mackenzie Johnson, JT (Lexi) Johnson, Mike Keene, Taylor Keene, Mariah Daniels, Alexandra Davis, Angel Davis, Paige Davis, Trenton Willis, Brandon Turbeville, and Scarlett Turbeville. He also leaves behind his cherished great-grandchildren, Brantley Wideman, Wyatt Wideman, Montreiko Peacock, Azrah Peacock, Zaria Peacock, Quinn Johnson-Villegas, Reyna Fields, and Xavier Laurel. Donald is also survived by his siblings, David (Savannah) Pipkins, Jimmy (Linda) Daniels, Thomas (Irene Torres) Daniels, Sharon (EJ) Shrowder, and Kenneth (Nikkie) Daniels, along with many nieces and nephews who will miss him dearly. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sisters-in-law, Jean Davis and Cheryl Smithers. In accordance with Donald’s wishes, he will be cremated, and no services will be held at this time. Condolences and expressions of sympathy may be shared with the family at www.colonialterracefuneralhome.com.

04/22/2026

Danny L. Rider, 67, of Harrisburg, passed away on Tuesday, April 21, 2026, at SIH Memorial Hospital in Carbondale, Illinois. He was born on September 5, 1958, in Eldorado to William and Philomena Rider. Danny worked as a custodian for Coleman Tri-County, where he took great pride in his work and dedication. Danny had a deep love for fishing out in the boat or he could often be found spending hours fishing on the family pond. He also enjoyed working on puzzles and, most importantly, cherished the time he spent with his family. He is survived by his sisters, Brenda Rider of North Carolina, Nancy Holland of Eldorado, and Valerie (Aaron) Goff of Alabama; his brothers, Gene Rider of Goreville, Jim Rider of Ridgway, David (Pam) Rider of Texas, and Jerry (Mary) Rider of Mattoon; along with several nieces and nephews. A graveside service for family will be scheduled at a later time. Condolences and expressions of sympathy may be shared with the family at www.colonialterracefuneralhome.com

04/13/2026

Carol Brooks was born in July 1941 in Auburn, Illinois, to Pauline (Russell) and Edgar Thomas. She passed away on March 24, 2026, in Harrisburg, Illinois, her final days spent surrounded by loved ones. Carol was raised in Enfield, Illinois, alongside her three brothers and sister, where she lived until 1959. At 19 years old, she met Dewey Othello Brooks, and the two were married in 1960 in a ceremony held in the home of Reverend Fred Reed in Mill Shoals, Illinois. They lived briefly in Chandler, Indiana, before settling in St. Charles, Missouri, where they built a home and spent nearly 18 years in the Mark Twain II neighborhood. During her time in Missouri, Carol planned patio parties and weddings for members of her church, volunteered at a well-baby clinic, and took ceramics classes. In 1977, Carol and Dewey returned to Southern Illinois, where they owned and operated Dewey’s Processing, a slaughterhouse in the Parish Addition of Eldorado. Carol later lived on Franklin Street in Eldorado for 35 years. She worked as a clerk at Dollar General and as a housekeeper for Pan and Lou Beck, as well as June and Dr. Andrew Cserny. At nearly 50 years old, she attended Southeastern Illinois College, where she made new friends and earned her GED. Carol was a devoted, lifelong friend to Flora Beth Lampert, Linda Genet, Willie Allen, Victoria Elmore, and many others. She wore a ring on every finger and loved a big hat. She cried when she was happy, and she cried often. She never wore blue jeans and never had a driver’s license, walking nearly everywhere she went for decades. She loved to dance and gather with her family. She is survived by her beloved daughter and son, Paula France (Willie) and Russell Brooks (Christie); her precious grandchildren, Chris Dennis and Monica Dennis; her great-grandchildren, Zaden Dennis, Trenton Swaggirt, Emileigh Swaggirt, and Xavier and Gabriel Rogers; and her cherished brothers, Richard Thomas (Connie) and Darrell Thomas. She was preceded in death by her husband of 55 years, Dewey Brooks; her sister, Kay Willoughby; and her brother, Gary Thomas. Carol was endlessly kind and always talkative, someone who greeted nearly every stranger. Her loved ones will remember her for always telling others how beautiful, important, and special they are. She often claimed to have invented the phrase, “Have a nice day,” and for those who knew her, it certainly felt true. Her family will hold a celebration of life at a later date.

04/11/2026

Marlene Kay Banks, 66, of Eldorado, passed away Friday, April 10, 2026, at Ferrell Hospital in Eldorado. Marlene was born February 7, 1960, in Eldorado to the late Albert H. Walker and Goldie M. (Beavers) Walker. On December 31, 2022, she married Thomas W. “Tom” Banks, who survives. She was a devoted member of Star General Baptist Church in Eldorado and was actively involved in several community organizations, including By His Grace (formerly Saline County Outreach), For the Love of My Child, Star Youth, and was a lifetime member of the VFW. Marlene had a servant’s heart and found great joy in giving back to her community, but her greatest love was her family—especially her grandchildren. In addition to her husband, Tom, she is survived by three children: Joe (Karen) Walker of Eldorado, Katie Karns of Eldorado, and Bo (Candy) Prince of Edwardsport, Indiana; two brothers: Danny (Clarence) Walker of Eldorado and Albert (Debbie) Walker of Eldorado; her beloved grandchildren: Dallas Walker, Emily Davis, Keaton Karns, Kinsley Karns, Nathan Prince, Maeve Banks and Otto Banks; and two special aunts: Jan Rash of Eldorado and Maxine Willis of Harrisburg. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her son and daughter, Dallas Prince and Emily Prince, and her father, Neal Willis. Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, April 15, 2026, at Star General Baptist Church, with Rev. Aaron Phelps officiating. Visitation will be held from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday, April 14, 2026, at Colonial Terrace Funeral Home. Burial will follow at Cave Hill Cemetery in Cave-in-Rock, Illinois. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to By His Grace (formerly Saline County Outreach). Contributions will be accepted at the funeral home or the church. Condolences and expressions of sympathy may be shared with the family at www.colonialterracefuneralhome.com

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