Wilson Funeral Home

11/19/2025

Kathy Blasdel Ryan, age 69, of Grand Chain, Illinois passed away at 7:38 A.M. Wednesday, November 19, 2025 at the Axion Gardens Healthcare Center in Flora, Illinois.

Kathy was born May 4, 1956 in Cairo, Illinois. She was a 1974 graduate of Century High School near Ullin, Illinois. Kathy graduated from Shawnee College and then went on to graduate from Southern Illinois University in 1979 with a Bachelor's Degree in Education. Kathy had retired from Century High School after 34 years of teaching. She was a member of the Ohio Chapel Church. Kathy was very active in the National Education Association (NEA). She enjoyed reading and loved her cats. Kathy loved spending time with her family, gardening and was an excellent cook. After retiring Kathy worked 7 years at the Candy Store in the Paducah Mall.

Kathy Is survived by one daughter, Betsy Ryan of Grand Chain; sister, Donna (Ed) Holhubner of Sedalia, Missouri; two nephews, Chris (Sarah) Holhubner of Vienna; Lucas (Mel) Holhubner of Smithton, Missouri; a host of great nieces and nephews.

Kathy was preceded in death by her parents, Max and Louise Mathis Blasdel

Funeral services honoring the life of Mrs. Kathy Blasdel Ryan will be held at 2 P.M. Sunday, November 23, 2025 at the Ohio Chapel Church, Grand Chain, Illinois. The family will receive friends Sunday from 11 A.M. until the funeral hour at the Church. Pastor Tammy Horn will be officiating. Interment will follow at the Ohio Chapel Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Ohio Chapel Church. c/o Tammy Horn, 18 Rivercrest Lane, Grand Chain, Illinois

To leave an online message for the family or to share a memory, you can also visit our website at www.wilsonfuneralhome1928.com

The staff of Wilson Funeral Home would like to send our sincere condolences to the family of Kathy Ryan.

11/19/2025

Holly Musgraves Shreves, age 44, of Grand Chain, Illinois passed away at 12:55 P.M. Tuesday, November 18, 2025 at the Barnes Jewish Hospital in Saint Louis, Missouri.

Funeral services honoring the life of Mrs. Holly Musgraves Shreves will be held at 12 P.M. Saturday, November 22, 2025 at Wilson Funeral Home in Karnak. Rev. Steve Heisner and Rev. Gerell Cain will be officiating. The family will receive friends Saturday morning from 10 A.M. until the service hour. Interment will follow at the Masonic Cemetery in Grand Chain.

Pallbearers will be Bailey Langston, Cameron Langston, Brian Langston, Kegan Hale and Lukus Inman.

Holly was born December 16, 1980 in Cape Girardeau, Missouri. She was a 1999 graduate of Century High School near Ullin. Holly loved spending time with her family, taking walks and going to her sons basketball games.

She is survived by her husband, James Shreves; her children, Sumer Agers and James D. Shreves Jr. of Grand Chain, Illinois; father, Cyrus Musgraves (Debbie Davis) of Grand Chain; sister, Stephanie (Brian) Langston of Paducah, Kentucky; nephews, Bailey Langston of Paducah, Kentucky and Cameron (Alessia) of Toronto, Canada; a host of nieces, nephews,aunts, uncles and cousins.

Holly was preceded in death by her mother, Debra Musgraves (2014); grandparents, Charles and Vivian Inman, Mae Dunning, Creston and Elsie Musgraves.

To leave an online message for the family or to share a memory, you can also visit our website at www.wilsonfuneralhome1928.com

The staff of Wilson Funeral Home would like to send our sincere condolences to the Shreves family.

WELCOME TO WILSON FUNERAL HOME Since 1928, the Wilson Family has been proudly serving families in Karnak and surrounding areas with dignity, respect, and professionalism. At Wilson Funeral Home, we understand that saying goodbye to a loved one is never easy. During this challenging time, we extend o...

11/15/2025

Kingsley V. Bennett, age 89 of Ewing, Illinois passed away at 9:40 P.M. Friday, November 14, 2025 at the Nature Trail Nursing Home in Mt. Vernon, Illinois.

Kingsley was born November 12, 1936 in Benton, Illinois. He attended the Benton High School and graduated high school from the Van-Nuys High School in Hollywood, California. Kingsley enlisted in the United States Navy and served from 1955 to 1959. He then went on to the Vocational-Technical Institute (VTI) to earn a degree in accounting. Kingsley and Cathy Whittier were united in marriage on May 25, 1961. Kingsley had retired from the Internal Revenue Service of the United States Treasury on January 1, 1993. Kingsley loved his children and grandchildren. He was an avid hunter and fisherman. He enjoyed gardening and watching the NBA, he loved working with his cattle and just being in the outdoors.

He is survived by his loving wife, Cathy Bennett; two sons, Jeff (Lori) Bennett and Mitch (Taylor) Bennett of Ewing; two brothers, Jim Bennett of Benton and Rodney Bennett of Newburgh, Indiana; two sisters, Marlene Webb of Ewing, and Lynda Sanchez of Benton; seven grandchildren, Brandon, Lauren, Brock, Jordan, Alex, Kaitlyn and Josh Bennett; great-grandchildren, Isabella and Keagen Bennett.

Kingsley was preceded in death by his parents, Ernest James and Helen Vaughn Bennett; his son, Bradley Whittier Bennett (2002).

Funeral services honoring the life of Kingsley V. Bennett will be held at 12 P.M. Wednesday, November 19, 2025 at the Whittington Church in Whittington, Illinois. Rev. Mark Minor will be officiating. The family will receive friends Wednesday morning from 10 A.M. until the service hour. Internment will follow at the Liberty-Ridlin Cemetery in Macedonia, Illinois. Full Military Honors will be accorded by the American Legion Post #280 in Benton.

Pallbearers will be Jeff Bennett, Mitch Bennett, Alex Bennett, Rodney Bennett, Doug Browning, Brock Bennett and Brandon Bennett.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Whittington Church, 200 West Main St, Whittington, Illinois 62897.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Wilson Funeral Home in Karnak.

The family and staff of Wilson Funeral Home would like to offer our sincere condolences to the Kingsley Bennett family. (Our dear friends)

11/11/2025

11/06/2025

Karen Kickasola Reichert, age 77 of Grand Chain, Illinois passed away at 6:20 P.M. Wednesday, November 5, 2025 at her home.

She was a beloved momma, granny, and great-granny. She missed her husband, Skip Reichert, over the last six years. She loved watching her grandkids play sports and playing with her great grandkids. Her Sundays were spent at church and visiting with her twin, Sharon, and friend, Brenda. Her Wednesdays were spent visiting, eating, and playing cards with Grand Chain friends. She will be remembered for her love and ability of cooking for others, especially her cinnamon rolls.

Karen grew up in Unionville on a family farm. She worked at Allied before deciding to become a full time mother. Later, she worked at the Grand Chain Post Office, Grand Chain First State Bank and retired from Vienna's Banterra Bank.

She was a lifetime member of Mt. Sterling Cumberland Presbyterian Church. For a few years, they attended Milburn Chapel Cumberland Presbyterian Church and was very active with their Sunday school class.

She left behind her daughter, Penny (Tim) Bellamey, and son, Jasson (Leah) Reichert; grandkids, Alex (Amber) Bellamey, Lauren Grace (Wes) Belt, Madison Reichert and Nolan Reichert; great-grandkids, Emmett, Elijah, and Hazel; her sister, Sharon Pegram, and several nieces, nephews and cousins.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Larry "Skip" Reichert; her parents, Lawrence (LT) and Pearline Kickasola.

Funeral services honoring the life of Mrs. Karen Reichert will be held at 1 P.M. Saturday, November 8, 2025 at Wilson Funeral Home in Karnak. Rev. Doug Hughes will be officiating. The family will receive friends from 10 A.M. Saturday morning until the service hour. Interment will follow at the Masonic Cemetery in Grand Chain.

Pallbearers will be, Alexander Bellamey, Nolan Reichert, John Hannan, Kevin Reichert, Jason Neelley and Sean Pegram.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to the Century FFA.

The Hillerman Baptist Church will be providing a meal for the family immediately following the committal service on Saturday. The church is located at 4197 Hillerman Road.

The staff at Wilson Funeral Home would like to express our sincere condolences to the Karen Reichert family.

10/28/2025

Robin Henson, age 62, of Jonesboro, Illinois, formerly of Cypress passed away at 4:08 P.M. Monday, October 27, 2025 at the Deaconess Hospital in Marion.

Robin was born February 10, 1963 in Anna, Illinois.

Robin was a graduate of the Vienna High School. He was a veteran of the United States Army. Robin was a heavy equipment operator out of the Local 318 in Marion. He was an avid Harley Davidson enthusiast.

He is survived by his daughter, Danielle WallenMeyer of Jonesboro; son, Gary Henson of Marion; brother, Tracy Richardson of Cypress; three bonus brothers, Harold Richardson of Jonesboro, Bobby Richardson of Anna and Jack Richardson of Vienna; his mother, Sandy Richardson and bonus dad, Bob Richardson Sr. of Cypress.

Robin was preceded in death by his father, Robert Henson.

Funeral services honoring the life of Mr. Robin Henson will be held at 11 A.M. Wednesday, November 5, 2025 at the Mound City National Cemetery. Rev. Jack Richardson will be officiating. Full military honors will be accorded by the United States Army National Guard Funeral Detail Team and area veterans.

Those attending have been asked to bring a picture of Robin if you have one available and dress comfortably.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be given to the family in care of Wilson Funeral Home, P.O. Box 206, Karnak, Illinois 62956.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Wilson Funeral Home in Karnak.

We express our sincere condolences to the Robin Henson family.

To leave an online message for the family or to share a memory, you can also visit our website at www.wilsonfuneralhome1928.com

10/17/2025

Rebecca (Becky) Carr, age 72, of Belknap, Illinois passed away at 5:25 P.M. Thursday, October 16, 2025 at the Ray and Kay Eckstein Hospice Care Center in Paducah, Kentucky.

Rebecca was born October 16, 1953 in Grand Chain, Illinois. She attended the Grand Chain School. Rebecca and Charles Carr were united in marriage on October 10, 1970. She loved spending time with her family and especially her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Rebecca enjoyed going to the Encampment every year.

She is survived by her husband, Charles Carr; daughter, Tammara (Patrick) McGuire of Mayfield, Kentucky; two brothers, Gerald Douglas of Georgia and Richard Evers of Belknap; three grandchildren, Shailen Rosenthal of Jackson, Missouri, Camden McGuire of Mayfield, Kentucky and Dakin Rosenthal of Belknap; two great-grandchildren, Aaris Sullivan of Jackson, Missouri and Emeri Johnston of Jackson, Missouri; a host of aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and many friends.

Rebecca was preceded in death by her parents, Wynona and Genevieve Hanle Douglas; one brother, Gary Douglas.

There will be a celebration of life service honoring the life of Mrs. Rebecca Carr at 11 A.M. Saturday, October 25, 2025 at Wilson Funeral Home in Karnak. Reverend Kenneth Capps will be officiating. The family will receive friends Saturday morning from 10 A.M. until the service hour.

To leave an online message for the family or to share a memory, you can also visit our website at www.wilsonfuneralhome1928.com

10/02/2025

Trenton Joseph Pulcher
November 11, 1999 – August 30, 2025
Trenton Joseph Pulcher, 25, of Fort Myers, Florida, was called home far too soon on Saturday, August 30, 2025, following a motorcycle accident while doing what he loved.

Born on November 11, 1999, Trenton was a free spirit who lived life to the fullest and touched the hearts of everyone he met.
Trent, as he was lovingly known, was the beloved life companion of Mekenzie Housman. Their love story began seven years ago when they met in school and became inseparable. Just last month, Kenzie celebrated their anniversary, writing, "I can't believe it's been 7 years with my best friend! Thank you so much for the endless love, laughter, and memories." Their bond was a testament to young love that grew deeper with each passing year.

Standing tall at 6'2" with long blonde hair and an infectious smile, Trent had a presence that lit up every room. Whether flashing his signature big white-tooth grin or showing off his coy smile, he had a way of making everyone feel welcomed and loved. His generous heart was evident to all who knew him; he was always the first to lend a helping hand and include others in his circle of friendship.

Trent worked for Roof-EZ and Vantage Logistics, LLC, bringing his reliable and hardworking spirit to everything he did. When not working, he could be found enjoying car shows, riding his beloved motorcycle, or spending quality time at home with Kenzie and their two cherished pets – Turbo the cat and Kora, their golden lab. He and Kenzie also loved their magical trips to Disney World, where their playful spirits and deep love for each other truly shone. These simple pleasures brought him the greatest joy.

Trenton is survived by his devoted life companion, Mekenzie Housman; his father, Tim Pulcher, and stepmother, Kara Pulcher; sister Caitlan; brothers Jack and Cameron; Grandmothers, Judy Gotway and Ruth Pulcher; uncle Chris (Rhonda) Gotway; uncle Tom (Pam) Pulcher; aunt Beth Dallas; aunt Terry (Ed) Miller; and a large extended family who adored him.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Cindy Gotway; grandfathers, Gerald Gotway and Gilbert Pulcher; and uncle, Mark Gotway.

Friends remember Trent as "a light of kindness to many" and someone who was "always there" when needed. His legacy lives on in the countless lives he touched with his generosity, laughter, and unwavering friendship. From letting friends practice braiding his long hair to his competitive spirit when playing video games, Trent created memories that everyone will treasure forever.

Though his time with us was far too brief, Trent lived fully and loved deeply. He was just beginning to build the life he dreamed of with Kenzie, and his spirit will continue to inspire all who were blessed to know him.

A celebration of Trent's life will take place on Saturday, October 11th, starting at 10:30 a.m. at the St. Catherine Catholic Church in Grand Chain, Illinois. After the service you are welcome to come out to the Grand Chain Lodge and eat or just visit and share stories. All who knew and loved Trent are invited as we honor a beautiful soul taken too soon.
"Rest in peace, kid. Your light will shine on in all of us."

Wilson Funeral Home in Karnak is assisting the family with local arrangements.

09/25/2025

William Francis Davault, age 87 of Vienna, Illinois passed away at 12:40 A.M. Thursday, September 25, 2025 at the Metropolis Nursing and Rehabilitation Center.

Francis was born April 19, 1938 in Cypress, Illinois, He attended the Belknap School. Francis was an avid outdoorsman and loved to hunt and fish. He mostly enjoyed catfishing at Mernet Lake and was a regular there. Francis had worked as a grain and cattle farmer.

He is surviced by one brother, Martin Davault and a host of nieces and nephews.

Francis was preceeded in death by his parents, Martin and Eunice Faye Mathis Davault; two brothers, Robert Lee and Jackie Dean Davault; 4 sisters, Alice Hastings, Helen Eastwood, Mae Malcolm and Jane Martinez

Funeral service honoring the life of Mr. William Francis Davault will be held at 1 P.M. Sunday, September 28, 2025 at Wilson Funeral Home in Karnak. Internet will follow at the West Eden Cemetery near Cypress, Illinois. Rev. Gerell Cain will be officiating. The family will receive friends Saturday evening from 5 til 7 at the funeral home.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Wilson Funeral Home in Karnak.

To leave an online message for the family or to share a memory you can also visit our website at www.wilsonfuneralhome1928.com

09/02/2025

Colonel (Retired) Jerry Joe Kean, United States Air Force, went home to be with the Lord Tuesday, August 26, 2025, at the age of 90.

The Funeral service will be held at 1:00 p.m. Saturday, September 6, at First Baptist Church of Waco with Rev William Love officiating. Interment will follow the service at Oakwood Cemetery.

Jerry was born and raised in Karnak, Illinois, where he developed his love of hunting and fishing. He attended Karnak High School, and upon graduation from Southern Illinois University, Jerry was commissioned into the United States Air Force as a Second Lieutenant. As a young officer, Jerry was stationed at Lufkin Air Force Station, where he met and married Marilyn Sue Nisbet in June of 1960. His military career took them to various parts of the world, including New Mexico, Japan, California, Washington, D.C., and Alabama. He also served a tour in Vietnam. In his last assignment, he served as the Commander and Professor of Aerospace Studies for the Air Force ROTC at Baylor University in Waco, Texas. After retiring from the Air Force, Jerry became the Director of Public Works for the City of Temple, Texas, until his retirement in 2000.

Throughout his career, Jerry continued his education, receiving his Master of Business Administration and Doctorate in Education, both from Auburn University. He was an active member of First Baptist Church of Waco, where he served as a deacon, a Sunday school teacher, and a member of several church committees. In addition to these activities, he was involved in his community in various ways. He especially enjoyed working with the Boy Scouts of America and Meals on Wheels.

Jerry was a man of incredible faith, and his legacy of kindness, love, and generosity was evident to all who knew him. Even with all his achievements, Jerry was most proud of the unique talents and accomplishments of his children and grandchildren. His greatest joy was being with them.

Jerry was preceded in death by his parents, Joe and Sadie Kean; his brother, Tom Kean; and his sister, Bonnie Kean Ward.

He is survived by his wife of sixty-five years, Marilyn; his sons, Steve Kean of Tyler, Texas, and Richard Kean and wife, Kelly, of Montgomery, Alabama; and his daughter, Robyn Kean Hargett, and husband, Leslie, of San Antonio, Texas. Other survivors include his two granddaughters, Elizabeth Kean Groark and husband, Chris, and Sarah Kean Griffin and husband, Marshall; his two grandsons, Wesley Hargett and wife, Sophia, and Hunter Hargett and wife, Aynslee; and his great-granddaughter, Sarah Grace Groark. He is also survived by his brother-in-law, Robert Nisbet and wife, Jill; his sister-in-law, Brenda Kean; and many beloved nieces and nephews.

For those desiring, the family suggests that memorials be given to the Salvation Army, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, First Baptist Church of Waco, or any veteran organization of choice.

The family invites you to leave a message or memory of Jerry in his “Memorial Guestbook” at www.WHBfamily.com.

To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Colonel (Retired) Jerry Joe Kean, please visit our flower store.
In memory of Colonel (Retired) Jerry Joe Kean, please consider making a donation to one of the following charities:
Salvation Army - National Headquarters
St. Jude Children's Research Hospital

This is a courtesy obit by Wilson Funeral Home, Karnak, Illinois.

08/25/2025

Sharon (Duckworth) Altenberger, 82, of Metropolis, formerly of Karnak, IL, passed away Monday, August 25, 2025 at 3:09 am at The Ray and Kay Eckstein Hospice Care Center in Paducah, KY.

Sharon was born January 14, 1943 on a farm near Perks, Illinois.

She attended and graduated from Karnak High School. In 1964, she graduated from the Missouri Baptist Hospital School of Nursing in St. Louis, Missouri. During her nursing career, she served in various health care positions in Long-term Care facilities as a Charge Nurse, Inservice Director, Assistant Director of Nursing and Director of Nursing.

Sharon accepted a position as Director of Nursing at the Americana Healthcare Center in Naperville, IL., She was promoted to Nurse Consultant at the Corporate office for five years in Monticello, IL., Then she accepted the position as a Surveyor at the Indiana State Board of Health for the Skilled Division in Indianapolis, IN. After which time, she served five years as a Corporate Health Service Coordinator for The Southern Region for Miller’s Merry Manor, INC. in LaGrange, IN. Sharon spent the last ten years as a Healthcare Consultant for Courtney and Associates Healthcare Consultants in Indianapolis, IN., a Division of Lucas Health Group.
Her last fifteen years as an Associate for Courtney and Associates Healthcare Consultant in Indianapolis, IN., a Division of Lucas Health Group.

Sharon retired in 2001 to assist her sister (Judy), brother (Jim), and her sister-in-law (Vurtis) with the care of their mother at her sister’s home in Karnak until their mother’s death.

Sharon was a Christian. She loved God and her Savior, Jesus Christ. She faithfully prayed and read the Bible (The Holy Word) every day.
Sharon loved her husband, Wes, and always called him her soul mate. During her husband’s lifetime, Wes has penned several Christian songs which inspired Shaon in 2015 to write her published book entitled, “Have the Apocalyptic Horses Started to Gallop? If so, why?” Wes is a gifted singer and guitar player, and Sharon loved hearing him sing and play the old Gospel songs. Sharon enjoyed traveling with Wes in his music ministry for ten years. She loved her family and called her niece, Terri Kotter, her Biblical soul mate. She and Terri texted almost every day in the early morning hours. Sharon enjoyed living on the farm with Wes and spending time outdoors tending her numerous flowers. One of her great joys was watching Wes mow the back pasture land while she sat in the porch swing. Until her health began to fail, Sharon enjoyed helping her brother on his very large farm garden early in the mornings in the Spring and Summer where he so generously shared with others. It was also a treat when their sister, Judy, joined them.

Sharon is survived by her husband, Wes Altenberger; one brother, Jim (Vurtis) Duckworth of Perks, IL; three stepsons, John (Missy) Tennant of Greenfield, IL, Marty (Angie) Altenberger and Greg Altenberger of Edwardsville, IL; five nieces, Tina (Mark) Canada of Monmouth, IL, Toni Adams of Hampton, GA, Terri Kotter of Desoto, MO, Teresa Althoff of Cape Girardeau, MO, Taylor Altenberger, PhD of Tampa, FL; one nephew, Brad (Gayla) Duckworth of Youngsville, LA.

Sharon was preceded in death by her parents, Herman and Annelle Cooper Duckworth, her first husband, James Tennant (2002), her sister, Judy Altenberger (2025), and her daughter-in-law, Cyndie Altenberger.

Sharon is now at Home with her Lord. She said, “I’ll meet you in Heaven when your time on Earth ends.”

Per Sharon’s request, there will be no services.

Interment will be in Anderson Cemetery in Boaz.

Arrangements are entrusted to Wilson’s Funeral Home in Karnak, IL.

To leave an online message for the family or share a memory, you can also visit our website at www.wilsonfuneralhome1928.com