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Schilling Funeral Home, 1301 Charleston Avenue, Mattoon, IL (2025)

09/23/2025

JANET K. COOK

Janet Kay Cook, age 83, of Mattoon passed away on September 21, 2025 at Sarah Bush Lincoln Health Center.
A celebration of life will take place on Saturday, November 1, 2025 from 11:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m. at Ramsey Christian Church, 206 South Jefferson, Ramsey, Illinois 62080. A graveside service will follow at 1:30 p.m. at Bolt Cemetery in Ramsey, Illinois. Schilling Funeral Home is assisting the family.
Janet was born on February 23, 1942 in Ramsey Township, Illinois the son of Tony and Ida (Manley) Cook.
Survivors include her brother, Jack (Betty) Cook of Edgewood, IL; sisters-in-law, Sandra Cook of Ramsey, IL and Kellie Cook of Olney, IL; several nieces and nephews; and many special friends.
Janet was preceded in death by her parents; brothers, Billy “Joe” Cook, Jerry (Tricia) Cook and John Cook; and infant sister, Janie Marie Cook.
In her earlier years, Janet worked at Lincoln Christian College where she held many positions including bus driver, RA, photography teacher and supervisor of the audio-visual center. She also worked 39 years for Weight Watchers and later retired from Carle Hospital. Janet was a steward of the Lord; her life’s passion was to bring others to Christ. She was a member of Broadway Christian Church in Mattoon. Janet loved camping, gardening, traveling, and going on adventures, she spent many hours playing games and doing puzzles with her family and friends, but always made it clear there would be “no cheating.” Janet’s greatest joy was spending time with those she loved.
Memorial donations in her honor may be given to Broadway Christian Church, 1205 South 9th Street, Mattoon, Illinois 61938 or the Mattoon Food Pantry, 600 Moultrie Avenue, Mattoon, Illinois 61938. Online condolences may be expressed at www.schillingfuneralhome.net or Schilling Funeral Home’s page.

09/22/2025

LORRAINE RUTH LIVESAY

Lorraine Ruth Livesay, age 100, of Sullivan, IL (formerly of Mattoon, IL) passed away on September 19, 2025 at SBL Willow Breeze Hospice House.
Funeral services honoring her life will take place at 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, September 27, 2025 at Schilling Funeral Home. Burial will follow at Resthaven Memorial Gardens. Visitation for family and friends will be held from 12:00 p.m. until the time of the service on Saturday at the funeral home.
Lorraine was born on October 6, 1924 in Minneapolis, MN to the late Oscar E. and Doretta V. (Olson) Erickson. She married James C. Livesay on September 30, 1945 in Spartan, WI. He preceded her in death on December 7, 1991.
Survivors include her loving children, Jim (Karen) Livesay of Mattoon, IL, John (Sonna) Livesay of Pana, IL, Debbie Murphy of Geneva, IL and Donna (Mike) Buck of Charleston, IL; 10 grandchildren, 21 great-grandchildren, and 2 great-great grandchildren.
In addition to her husband, Lorraine was preceded in death by her son-in-law, John Murphy; twin sister, Phyllis Erickson; sister, Dotty White; and brother, Leslie Erickson.
Lorraine was employed at Camp McCoy in Wisconsin during World War II, where she met her husband. She worked at Franklin Grade School for 40 years and was a lifetime member of the PTA. She retired from General Electric after 40 years of dedicated service. Lorraine enjoyed crocheting and was an avid Chicago Cubs fan and College Basketball fan. Most of all, she loved attending all the family activities over the years. She will be greatly missed by all those who knew her.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in her honor may be given to the Alzheimer’s Association or a charity of the donor’s choice. Online condolences may be expressed at www.schillingfuneralhome.net or Schilling Funeral Home’s page.

09/15/2025

NANCY L. SMITH

Nancy L. Smith, age 84, of Mattoon passed away on September 15, 2025 at her residence.
Memorial services honoring her life will take place at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, September 19, 2025 at the First Baptist Church, 1804 South 9th Street, Mattoon, Illinois 61938 with Pastor Dennis Strawn officiating. Burial will follow at Dodge Grove Cemetery. Visitation for family and friends will be held from 9:00 a.m. until the time of the service on Friday at the church. Schilling Funeral Home is assisting the family.
Nancy was born on December 3, 1940 in Mattoon, the daughter of Woodrow W. and Mariam (Cutright) Sanders. She married Edward Smith on November 27, 1965.
Survivors include her loving husband, Edward “Ed” Smith of Mattoon, IL; sons, Bryan (Nancy) Smith of Mt. Zion, IL, Greg (Laura) Smith of Mattoon, IL and Todd (Velina Covarrubias) Smith of Mattoon, IL; grandchildren, Jonah Smith, Alexis Smith, Kendall Smith, Zach Smith, Bella Smith, Taylor (Mike) Novotny and Summerlyn Smith; sister, Joan (Gene) Clark; and brother, Tom (Jody) Sanders. Nancy was preceded in death by her parents.
Nancy was employed as a secretary at First Christian Church in Mattoon for 10 years and later worked for the Mattoon School District where she retired from after 20 years of dedicated service. She was a devoted member of the First Baptist Church in Mattoon for more than 50 years, where she faithfully served on every committee. In 1985, she helped establish Mattoon Project Graduation, ensuring a safe and meaningful celebration for local graduates. Nancy was an avid Cubs fan. Most of all, she loved attending the activities of her grandchildren and spending time with her family. She will be greatly missed by all those who knew her.
Memorial donations in her honor may be given to the building of Kids Kingdom at First Baptist Church. Online condolences may be expressed at www.schillingfuneralhome.net or Schilling Funeral Home’s page.

09/08/2025

BETTY J. ETCHISON

Betty June Etchison, age 91, of Mattoon passed away on September 5, 2025 at Heartland Senior Living, Neoga.
Funeral services honoring her life will take place 11:00 a.m. on Friday, September 12, 2025 at Schilling Funeral Home with Pastor Rick Medearis officiating. Burial will follow at Resthaven Memorial Gardens. Visitation for family and friends will be held from 10:00 a.m. until the time of the service on Friday at the funeral home.
Betty was born on December 26, 1933 in Mattoon, Illinois the daughter of George F. and Dora (Devore) Welch. She married Albert Etchison on March 29, 1957. He preceded her in death on April 26, 2013.
Survivors include her daughters, Cathy Perry and Karen (David) Bowen all of Mattoon, IL; grandchildren, Heather (Hector) Gonzales, Christina (J.L.) Reynolds, Josh Bowen, Jayson (Ashton) Etchison, Kaitlin Perry, Sarah (Chris) Watts and Matthew (Elena) Etchison; seven great-grandchildren; and daughter-in-law, Melissa Etchison.
In addition to her husband, Betty was preceded in death by her parents; son, Alan Etchison; and siblings, Walter, Freda, George, Charles, Ruth and John.
Betty was raised in the Catholic faith and later became a devoted member of LifePoint Church in Mattoon. In her younger years, she loved traveling with her husband, creating memories on the road together. Betty had a true gift for cooking and was known for her famous fried chicken and peanut butter fudge. Every holiday was made special by her love of family traditions, especially making Christmas candy, sometimes even in July for those dearest to her. In her later years, she found joy in playing cards, bingo, and bunko, traveling with friends, and crafting with her Heartland family, who became a cherished second family to her.
Memorial donations in her honor may be given to a charity of the donor’s choice. Online condolences may be expressed at www.schillingfuneralhome.net or Schilling Funeral Home’s page.

09/08/2025

STANLEY "STAN" KEITH OWENS

It is with great sadness to announce the passing of Stanley “Stan” Keith Owens, age 65, who passed away at home on September 5, 2025 in Mattoon, Illinois.
Per his request, there will be a private graveside service at Dodge Grove Cemetery. In the near future, there will be a Celebration of Life for family and friends in his honor. Schilling Funeral Home is assisting the family.
Stan was born on February 13, 1960 in El Paso, Texas the son of Thomas Owens and Regina (Ozier) Owens. He married Lisa Gwinn on December 7, 1982 and they had two children, Travis Keith Owens and Rachel Nicole Owens.
Survivors include his wife, Lisa; son, Travis (Paige) Owens; grandson, Tru Owens; parents, Tom and Regina Owens; brother, Steve Owens; in-laws, Jerry Gwinn and Jim and Cheryl Gwinn; and several cousins.
Stan was preceded in death by his daughter, Rachel Nicole Owens; and in-laws, Ted and Catherine Gwinn, Linda Perry and Andrea Gwinn.
Stan graduated from Mattoon High School, attended Lake Land College and then went to EIU for three years. He could fix anything and was also a gifted artist and painter. Stan earned several superior medals, playing a trombone in middle school and high school. He had previously worked for All-Tri-R construction at ADM in Decatur, Illinois, Justrite in Mattoon and Monahan’s in Arcola.
Over the years, many stray cats found their way to Stan’s home, where he lovingly cared for them. Memorial donations in his honor may be given to the Coles County Animal Shelter. Online condolences may be expressed at www.schillingfuneralhome.net or Schilling Funeral Home’s page.

09/03/2025

SHIRLEY J. KOLBUS

Shirley June Kolbus, age 87, of Mattoon, IL, passed away on Tuesday, September 2, 2025, at Mattoon Healthcare.
Memorial services honoring her life will take place at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, September 8, 2025, at St. John’s Lutheran Church in Mattoon (200 Charleston Ave) with Pastor Andy Herzberg officiating. Burial will take place at the family farm. Visitation for family and friends will be held from 9:00 a.m. until the time of service on Monday at the church. Schilling Funeral Home is assisting the family.
Shirley was born on June 14, 1938 in Falls of Rough, KY, the daughter of William Ferdinand and Edna Alice (Carter) Fentress. She married Ralph Lowell Kolbus on February 26, 1956. He preceded her in death on July 7, 2007.
Survivors include her children: Katherine L. Garrison of Mattoon, IL, and Patricia L. (Glen Fish) Hastings of Payson, IL; grandchildren: Courtney M. (Michael A.) Martin of Mattoon, IL, Heather S. (Benjamin) Downs of Cottonwood, AZ, Kristen M. Nale of Placerville, CA, and April R. (Nate Chevalier) Newlander of Garberville, CA; great-grandchildren: Christopher Martin of Mattoon, IL, Nicholas Martin of Mattoon, IL, Caroline Martin of Mattoon, IL, Harrison J. Downs of Cottonwood, AZ, Abigail E. Downs of Cottonwood, AZ, Lilium M. Chevalier of Garberville, CA, Logan M. Chevalier of Garberville, CA, and Kaden (Natalie) LeBlanc of Morse, LA; great-great-grandchildren: Ryker J. LeBlanc of Morse, LA, and Harper E. LeBlanc of Morse, LA; and siblings: Brenda (Michael) Baker of Rehobath Beach, DE, and Janet Homann of Mattoon, IL; and several nieces and nephews.
Shirley was preceded in death by her beloved husband; parents; sister, Edith Lancaster; and brothers-in-law, Bernie Lancaster and Leonard Homann.
Shirley dedicated many years of her life to working at Kmart, but her greatest joys were found outdoors. As a proud Master Gardener with the University of Illinois, she poured her heart into her gardens, especially her vibrant flowers, and delighted in the beauty of nature all around her. She enjoyed mushroom hunting, tending to her farm, and sharing her love of the land with those she loved. Above all, her family meant the world to her especially her great-grandchildren. Weekend gatherings at the farm were her happiest times, filled with laughter, love, and lasting memories that her family will cherish forever. Shirley will be greatly missed by all those who knew and loved her.
Memorial donations in her honor may be given to St. John’s Lutheran Church in Mattoon, IL, or U of I Master Gardeners. Online condolences may be expressed at www.schillingfuneralhome.net or Schilling Funeral Home’s page.

09/02/2025

RICHARD R. LAWHORN

Richard Raymond Lawhorn, age 77, of Mattoon passed away on August 29, 2025 at Sarah Bush Lincoln Health Center.
Funeral services honoring his life will take place at 12:00 p.m. on Thursday, September 4, 2025 at Schilling Funeral Home. Burial will follow at Mullen Cemetery in Montrose, Illinois. Visitation for family and friends will be held from 10:00 a.m. until the time of the service on Thursday at the funeral home.
Richard was born on July 13, 1948 in Mattoon, the son of Cleon and Opal (Hickey) Lawhorn.
Survivors include his children, Ronnie (Courtnye) Lawhorn, Lyndsey (James) Jean, Jeremy (Ashley) Conlin and Tiffany Conlin all of Mattoon, IL; several grandchildren and great-grandchildren; siblings, Charles Lawhorn, Barbara Harl, Mary Lawhorn, Betty Kearney, Brenda Lawhorn, Peggy (Wayne) Cowger and Sarah Harris all of Mattoon, IL and Jean (Lewis) Burns of Chatham, IL.
Richard was preceded in death by his parents; son, Richie Lawhorn; and brother, David Lawhorn.
Richard farmed for nearly 50 years at Curry Farms and took great pride in his work. He enjoyed fishing and shooting pool, but his greatest joy was spending time with his family and his canine companion Tadpole. He will be remembered for his hard work, love for the outdoors, and the special moments he shared with those he loved.
Memorial donations in his honor may be given to the American Diabetes Association or the Coles County Animal Shelter. Online condolences may be expressed at www.schillingfuneralhome.net or Schilling Funeral Home’s page.

08/27/2025

In Loving Memory of Melanie (Mel) Ruth Stewart

Melanie Ruth Stewart, age 67, of Mattoon, IL, a vibrant spirit and beloved soul, passed away on Tuesday, August 26, 2025, at Sarah Bush Lincoln Health Center in Mattoon, IL.
Melanie was born on October 11, 1957, in Mattoon, IL, the daughter of Thomas Eaton and Edith Pauline (England) Eaton. She married Steve Stewart in May of 1997.
She was a devoted wife, a proud mother and grandmother, and a dear friend to many. Throughout her life, Melanie faced challenges with strength and perseverance. She lived with a deep sense of purpose and joy, embracing every moment with passion and enthusiasm. Her love for music and dancing filled her, especially when it came to her husband Steve’s guitar playing. Whether she was supporting one of Steve’s bands, singing along to her favorite tunes, or simply laughing with friends and family, music was the backdrop to the joy she brought into every room. She was known for her love of a good conversation, especially when it came to her girls; she could talk about them for hours. Her laugh was unforgettable: full, contagious, and uniquely hers. She never met a stranger and had a way of making everyone feel like a friend, no matter where she was.
She cherished her role as a mother, always ready with years of advice, unwavering support, and a warm hug. As a grandmother, she deeply loved her role and gave what she could, when she could. She did her best to be there, to show up, to celebrate, to comfort, and her love for her family was always at the heart of who she was. In her later years, she came to know Jesus in a deeply personal way, and her faith became a guiding light in her life. She loved sharing that faith with others and formed lasting friendships through those conversations. Some of her happiest moments were spent in small groups, where she built deep, meaningful
connections with her church family: laughing, praying, and growing together.
In her professional life, Mel was known as the life of the workplace. She brought energy, kindness, and laughter to everyone she encountered, leaving a lasting impression on coworkers and customers alike. Her career in food service and hospitality was a natural fit for her people-first personality. She truly loved the daily interactions, the familiar faces, and the chance to brighten someone’s day. Whether she was sharing a joke, offering a listening ear, or simply remembering a customer’s favorite order, Mel made others feel valued and welcome. Her
presence turned ordinary moments into meaningful connections.
Survivors include her husband, Steve Stewart; daughters, Katrina (Ryan) Coombs and Casey (Clint) Hargis; and beloved grandchildren, Hayden (Macie) Williams, Delainey (Pierce) Bryant, Jordan Coombs, Payton Bryant, and Alexis Miller; two wonderful sisters, Sherrie (Jim) Porter and Tomi Nees; Nieces,
Paula Porter and Sara Foley, Nephew, Gary (Dayna) Nees; along with various other cousins she loved dearly.
She was preceded in death by her grandparents, parents, Tom and Edith Eaton; brothers: Scott and Jason Eaton; and her much-loved Aunt Peewee.
She will be deeply missed and forever remembered by her husband Steve, her children, grandchildren, extended family, friends, and all who were lucky enough to share in her love.
Funeral services honoring her life will take place at 7:00 p.m. on Friday, August 29, 2025, at Schilling Funeral Home with Pastor Jeremy Morton officiating. Visitation for family and friends will be held from 5:00 p.m. until the time of service on Friday at the funeral home.
Memorial donations in her honor may be given to Sarah Bush Lincoln Cancer Center. Online condolences may be expressed at www.schillingfuneralhome.net or Schilling Funeral Home’s page.

08/25/2025

JOHN E. ZACHOW

John Edward Zachow, age 91, of Mattoon passed away on August 24, 2025 at Mattoon Healthcare.
Graveside services with Military Rites honoring his life will take place at 10:30 a.m. on Thursday, August 28, 2025 at Dodge Grove Cemetery with Pastor Todd Krost officiating. Schilling Funeral Home is assisting the family.
John was born on April 1,1934 in Mattoon, the son of Edward and Iva (Canary) Zachow.
Survivors include his sister, Joyce Zachow of Mattoon, IL. John was preceded in death by his parents and siblings, David Zachow, Mary (Zachow) Willingham, Norma (Zachow) Sell, Otis Zachow and Larry Zachow.
John graduated from Mattoon High School class of 1948. He then enlisted in the United States Navy, serving honorably from 1952 until 1956. John attended the Navy School of Music in Washington D.C. from March to November of 1953, earning the Musicians Plate Diploma. He was a member of the U.S. Navy Band where he traveled and performed across the United States. He later attended Murray State College in 1957 and attended Eastern Illinois University from 1957 until 1960, receiving a degree in Music Education and doing his internship at Mattoon High School. John then moved up north where he was music director at Oaklawn Middle School, focusing on woodwinds. He also worked in Down’s Elsworth and at St. Anthony’s in Effingham. John later returned to Mattoon where he taught private music lessons and relished his time at Rogala Public Golf Links, where he could be found almost daily! John was a member of the Eagles Club where he enjoyed playing cards. John will be greatly missed by all those who knew and loved him.
The family would like to thank the staff at Mattoon Healthcare for their compassionate care. Memorial donations in his honor may be given to Mattoon Healthcare. Online condolences may be expressed at www.schillingfuneralhome.net or Schilling Funeral Home’s page.

08/22/2025

JEFFERY D. FRENCH

Jeffery Dale French, age 66, of Charleston, IL, passed away on August 15, 2025, at his residence.
Services will take place at a later date. Schilling Funeral Home is assisting the family.
Jeff was born on September 30, 1958 in Effingham, IL, the son of Linda (Whightsel) Chaney.
Survivors include his son, Alex French; grandsons, Bentley Bateman and Ashton Rentfro; sisters, Pamela (Mike) Beals and Angie (Tim) Ritter.
Jeff was preceded in death by his mother, Linda Chaney; father, Larry D. French, stepfather, Herb Chaney; and brother, Randy French.
Jeff will be remembered as a hardworking man. He enjoyed being outdoors in nature working in his garden and tending to his plants and flowers. Jeff loved fishing with his family and friends. He had a great sense of humor and was always helping out his loved ones. Jeff will be greatly missed by all those who knew him.
Memorial donations in his honor may be given to the family. Online condolences may be expressed at www.schillingfuneralhome.net or Schilling Funeral Home’s page.

08/13/2025

CAROL E. OHM

Carol Earlene Ohm, age 80, of Mattoon, IL, passed away on Monday, August 11, 2025, at Odd Fellow-Rebekah Home Harmony Center.
A graveside service will take place at 1:00 p.m. on Monday, August 25, 2025 at Calvary Cemetery. Schilling Funeral Home is assisting the family.
Carol was born on December 26, 1944, in Mattoon, IL, the daughter of Fred Graham and Betty (Jaco) Graham. She married Harold Maxwell Ohm Jr. on April 28, 1962. He preceded her in death on April 23, 2023.
Survivors include her sister, Cindy Baber of Mattoon, IL; sons, Scott (Shelley) Ohm of Findlay, IL, Steve Ohm of Mattoon, IL; daughter, Kyla Ohm of Mattoon, IL; 9 grandchildren, Courtney Ohm, Mason (Alvia) Ohm, Caity Ohm (Brendon Walker), Cassandra McCoy, Sara Heater, Dalton Ohm, Bryce Spencer, Brock Hellman and Blake (Ramsey) Brown; and 22 great-grandchildren.
In addition to her husband, Carol was preceded in death by her parents; daughter, Kimberly Ohm; sister, Judy Spidle; grandchildren, Cody Ohm and Tad Ohm; and great-granddaughter, Violet Elaine Brown.
Memorial donations in her honor may be given to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. Online condolences may be expressed at www.schillingfuneralhome.net or Schilling Funeral Home’s page.

08/12/2025

MADDISON KENDRICK

Maddison Elizabeth Kendrick, age 18, of Mattoon, IL, passed away on Sunday, August 10, 2025.
Funeral services honoring her life will take place at 12:00 p.m. on Friday, August 15, 2025, at Schilling Funeral Home. Burial will follow at Zion Hill Cemetery. Visitation for family and friends will be held from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service on Friday at the funeral home.
Maddison was born on November 15, 2006, in Perryville, MO.
Survivors include her mother, Cassandra (Aaron) Davis of Pensacola, FL; father, Justin Hendrix of Mattoon, IL; uncles: Jason (Nicki) Hendrix of Effingham, IL, Josh (Courtney) Hendrix of Mattoon, IL, and Tyler (Lexie) Legg of Perryville, MO; aunts: Isabel (Hank) Braun of Jackson, MO, Hayley Legg of Ste. Genevieve, MO, and Taylor (Jeff) Venable of Provo, UT; grandmothers: Mary (Richard) Peach of Decatur, IL, Angela Braun of Perryville, MO, and Angie (Frank) Davis of Humboldt, IL; grandfathers: Tony Braun of Perryville, MO and Shane (Stephanie) Rogers of Casey, IL; great-grandmother, Penny (Denzle) Legg of Shumway, IL; siblings: Mackenzie of Mattoon, IL, Emily of Mattoon, IL, Arieanna of Clarksville, TN, Brianna of Clarksville, TN, and Miles of Charleston, IL; boyfriend, Aiden Hall and family of Mattoon, IL; and several cousins and friends.
Maddison was preceded in death by her grandfather, Dave Hendrix.
Maddison worked at Steak ‘N Shake in Mattoon, and she enjoyed her job and her coworkers. She spent her days off by the lake with her boyfriend, Aiden. Maddison absolutely adored her pets: Millie, Opal, Fritz, and Worm. She enjoyed painting, watching Disney movies, and spending special time with her sisters. Maddison will be greatly missed by all those who knew and loved her.
Memorial donations in her honor may be given to Coles County Animal Shelter. Online condolences may be expressed at www.schillingfuneralhome.net or Schilling Funeral Home’s page.

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