CAROLINE (GRAY) BABCOCK - In the death of Mrs. Caroline Babcock, relict of the late Orlando Babcock, our town loses another landmark. Mrs. Babcock was born in the year 1806, and came to this county at an early period of her life. She joined the Baptist church as early as 1841, by letter, and remained a consistent member up to the time of her death, last Tuesday. Her funeral took place from the Baptist church on Wednesday and the services were conducted by Rev. Green. A large number of relatives and friends followed the remains to their last resting place."
The Barry Adage Fri. Jan. 27, 1882

MARY E. (HOOPER) BACK - age 91, of Pleasant Hill, died Wednesday, March 18, 2009, at Illini Community Hospital in Pittsfield. Mary was born March 24, 1917 in Cope, Colo., the daughter of Floyd and Dema Ward Hooper. She married Ralph E. Back Sept. 5, 1934 in Burlington, Colo. Ralph died Sept. 6, 1994. Mary and her husband, Ralph, owned and operated Back's General Store in Summer Hill for many years. She also served as Postmaster at Summer Hill and later at Pleasant Hill, retiring after 37 years of service with the U.S. Postal Service. Mary truly enjoyed her involvement with the Pleasant Hill Senior Citizens, the Pleasant Hill Red Hat Society and the Bank of Kampsville's "Platinum club". She was a member of the First Baptist Church of Pleasant Hill. Survivors include a son, Ralph (wife Patricia) Back, Jr. of St. Peters, Mo.; a daughter, Margaret Browning of Pittsfield; three grandchildren, Derek (wife Mary) Back of Fulton, Mo. and Dion (wife Katie) Back of Harvester, Mo., Paula (husband Grey) Ganger of Summer Hill; five great-grandchildren, Ashlea, Abbi, Rachel, Amanda and Ryan; three great-great-grandchildren, Dana, Chad and Chaise. Mary was preceded in death by her parents, husband, a sister, Ila Mae Deam, four brothers, Edgar, Donald, Waunda and Paul Hooper and by a grandson, Dana Browning. Funeral services were held Saturday, March 21 at 10 a.m. at the Lummis Funeral Home in Pleasant Hill conducted by Bro. Don Hannel. Burial followed at Crescent Heights Cemetery in Pleasant Hill.
Contributed by Billie Browning

WILLIAM STEPHEN BADGLEY , 61 of rural Barry, died Monday, Dec. 29, 2008, at Blessing Hospital in Quincy. He was born May 19, 1947 in Hannibal, Mo. to William 'Bill' and Iva Sparrow Badgley. Steve graduated from Barry High School and married his high school sweetheart, Bertha Howell Sept. 15, 1968 in Barry, and she survives. Steve retired from Quincy Compressor in 2002 after 30 years of service. He was a Viet Nam era US Army veteran, serving from 1966 - 1968. He loved fishing and hunting. Steve spent many hours walking through the woods picking mushrooms, berries and just enjoying nature. He enjoyed puzzles and card games, and loved to play with his grandchildren. Survivors include his wife, Bertha, a son Tom Badgley (wife Cathy) of Liberty; a daughter, Teresa Heitholt (husband Jeff) of Quincy and Tina Sunde (husband Brian) of Payson, who was like a daughter to Steve; four grandchildren, Madison and Alex Badgley, and Austin and Lance Heitholt; a brother, Bob Badgley (wife Susie) of Barry; three aunts; and several cousins. Funeral services will be held today, Wednesday, Jan. 31, at 2 p.m. at the Niebur Funeral Chapel in Barry with Gary Howell officiating. Burial will be at the Park Lawn Cemetery in Barry with military rites by the Barry American Legion Post 222. Visitation was held Tuesday evening from 5-8 p.m. at the funeral home. Memorials may be left to the Alzheimer's Association or the American Heart Association. Niebur Funeral Chapel in Barry is in charge of the arrangements
Contributed by Billie Browning

EARL BAGENT , 93, of Pittsfield, died Sunday, August 21, 2005 at the Pittsfield Healthcare Center. Born December 28, 1911 at New Salem, Il., he was a son of John Reed and Ellie Rose Reeves Bagent. He married Gladys Sneeden August 12, 1943 in Pittsfield and she preceded him on October 8, 1996. Earl was a grain and livestock farmer most his life, farming near Detroit in Newburg Twp. He also was a producer of Purebred registered Duroc Hogs. He served in the U. S. Army during WWII. He was an elder and deacon at the Detroit Christian Church where he also taught a youth Sunday School class, past president of the Pike County Pork Producers, served as a Newburg Twp. trustee, a member of the Pike County Farm Bureau and the United Duroc Assn. He loved to pitch horseshoes, fish and was an avid Cardinal baseball fan. Survivors: a son Emmett Bagent of Pittsfield, four granddaughters, Mrs. Bryan (Kate) Pederson of Bowling Green, MO., Mrs. Ryan (Emily) Lowe of Summer Hill, IL., Sarah Bagent of Pittsfield and Suzanne Bagent of El Paso, TX. stationed at Ft. Bliss., A sister in law Mrs. Lucille Hoffman of Pittsfield. and one great grandchild. Preceded by his wife, Gladys, two brothers Charles and Reed Bagent and five sisters, Virginia Learch, Maude Gill, Celia, Melvina Carbaugh and Mildred Pease. Funeral services will be Wednesday, August 24, 2005 at 1:00 p.m. at the Niebur Funeral Home in Pittsfield with Bro. Jason Smith officiating. Burial will be at the Gray Cemetery near New Salem. Friends may call at the Niebur Funeral Home in Pittsfield, IL on Tuesday, August 23, 2005 from 5:30 till 7:30 p.m. Memorials are to the Gray Cemetery or the Detroit Christian Church.

HENRY J. BARKLEY died yesterday morning at 12:30 o'clock after a long illness of lagrippe. Mr. Barkley came to Arkansas five years ago from from Barry, Ill. {where he lived for 46 years} and spent awhile in Eureka Springs after which he moved to this city with his family. He was a member of the Baptist church. The body was sent to Barry, Ill. for burial. William Barkley, a son of the deceased, is here and will stay with his mother and sister, Miss Maggie, who are very ill. This family has been unfortunate indeed. Almost every member of it was sick at one time. [Benton County Democrat - 28 Jan 1892]

Henry J. Barkley was born February 4, 1816 and died in Bentonville, Arkansas of lagrippe Wednesday at 12:30 a.m. January 27, 1892, aged nearly 77 years. Deceased moved to Arkansas from Barry, Illinois five years ago. He has been a member of the Baptist church for 35 years and led a pious life. He was a devoted husband and loving parent. On account of affliction, he had been closely confined to his home for years. He leaves a wife, son and two daughters, who have the sincere sympathy of the entire community. [Bentonville Sun - 30 Jan 1892]

FANNIE LUCILLE BATCHELOR , 65, of Pleasant Hill and formerly of New Canton died May 18, 2009. She was born Feb. 4, 1944 in Hannibal, Mo., the daughter of William Eugene and Viola Pearl Clark Batchelor. She was a 1962 graduate of West Pike High School and a 1964 graduate of Quincy Beauty Academy. She later was an 11-year employee of Motorola before becoming a full-time care giver for her mother and the elderly with Community Care Systems for more than 20 years. She enjoyed spending time with her family and friends and was a member of the New Canton United Methodist Church. Survivors include a son, Kenny (wife Kandy) Batchelor of Pleasant Hill; two grandsons, Jeremy (wife Bo) Batchelor and Austin Batchelor; a granddaughter, Deme Jo Batchelor, and a great-granddaughter, Karlee Batchelor; a brother, Leslie (wife Kathy) Batchelor of Quincy; three nieces, Sabrina, Lora and Jessica (husband Bryan); a nephew, Travis (wife Maryanna); a great niece, Jaelyn and special cousins, Gary and Becky Clark and Sharon and A.J. Bower. She was preceded in death by her parents and grand parents. Funeral services will be held Friday, May 22, at 11 a.m. at the New Canton United Methodist Church conducted by Becky Clark and Rev. Aaron McCombs. Burial will follow at Stewart Cemetery near Plainville. Visitation will be held Friday morning at the New Canton United Methodist Church starting at 10 a.m. until time of services. Memorials may be made to the family. Lummis Funeral Home in Pleasant Hill is handling the arrangements
Contributed by Billie Browning

LESLIE T. BATCHELOR , age 62, of Quincy , IL passed away Sunday, November 8, 2009 at the Sycamore Healthcare Facility in Quincy . He was born March 1, 1947 in Hannibal , MO to William Eugene and Viola Pearl Clark Batchelor. He married Cathy Brown on October 18, 1970 in Hannibal , Mo and she survives. Mr. Batchelor was a truck driver for J.M. Huber in Quincy retiring after 20 years of service. He enjoyed sports, and was a fan of West Pike High School , college basketball and NASCAR. Leslie enjoyed doing word search books, loved outdoor Bar-B-Q’s, especially helping to cook at family reunions, going to county fairs to watch truck pulls and mushroom hunting. Most of all he enjoyed his family, especially his granddaughter, Jaelyn. He is survived by his wife, Cathy; a son; Travis (Maryanna) Batchelor of New Canton, IL; 3 daughters; Jessica (Bryan) Hawkins of Hannibal, MO, Sabrina Batchelor also of Hannibal and Lora Batchelor of Quincy, IL, a granddaughter, Jaelyn Batchelor and soon to be born infant granddaughter Maelee Pearl Hawkins, a nephew; Kenny (Kandy) Batchelor of Pleasant Hill, IL, 2 great nephews and one great niece. He was preceded in death by his parents and a sister, Fannie Lou Batchelor. Funeral services will be held at 1:00 PM , Thursday, November 12, 2009 at the Niebur Funeral Chapel in Barry with Rev. V. Lee Amsler officiating. Visitation will be from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM Thursday, prior to the service. Burial will be at the Kinderhook Cemetery in Kinderhook , IL following the services. Memorials are suggested to the Grandchildren’s education fund.
Contributed by Billie Browning from Niebur Funeral Home

CAROL LEE (LEIHR) BAUM , age 70, of Athens, died Sunday, Dec. 21, 2008 at St. John's Hospital in Springfield. Survived by her husband - Kenneth of Athens, sons - Glen Baum of Athens, Darel Baum of Athens, granddaughter - Kyleigh Baum, mother - Altha Liehr of Springfield and several nieces and nephews. Mrs. Baum was born Oct. 4, 1938 in Jacksonville the daughter of Glen and Altha Sullivan Liehr. She was raised in Perry and graduated from Perry High School in 1956. She was a graduate of Western Illinois University in 1960. She married Kenneth Baum April 5, 1969, in Springfield. She is preceded in death by her father, Glen. Mrs. Baum was employed by the Springfield Clinic for 14 years. Graveside services will be held at 10:00 a.m. Friday, Dec. 26, 2008 at Joel Hall Cemetery in Athens. Rev. Ken Gennicks officiating
Contributed by Billie Browning

MAUDINE (CHAMBERLAIN) BELFORD - 81, of Pittsfield, died May 19, 2003 in Illini Community Hospital in Pittsfield. She was born near Green Pond in Pike County, May 19, 1922 to Olin and Grace Long Chamberlain. She married Terrill Belford Dec. 16, 1944 in jacksonville and he survives. Survivors also include one son, Tim (Wife Linda) Belford of Pittsfield; two grandchildren, Brandon (wife Carrie) Belford of Glen Carbon and Brooke Belford of Jacksonville; an uncle, clyde (wife Lucille) long of Pittsfield and a cousin, Ramona Carr of Porto Gordo, Fla. She was preceded in death by a brother Wayne. Mrs. Belford worked at Brown Shoe Company in Pittsifled, Illini Community Hospital and for Dr. F. B. Allen. She was a member of the First Christian Church in Pittsfield and graduated from Milton High School in 1940. She was a member of the Pittsfield Legion Post 152 Auxiliary and served as chaplain. She enjoyed reading and visiting with everyone, enjoyed following her grandchildren's sport activities and was a St. Louis Cardinal fan. Funeral services will be Thursday, at May 22, at 11 a.m. at the First Christian Church in Pittsfield with the Rev. Clay Boyd officiating. Burial will be at the West Cemetery in Pittsfield.
Contributed by Colleen Bettenhausen - 21 May 2003, Pike Press, Pittsfield, Illinois

TERRILL T. BELFORD , 86, of Pittsfield died Wednesday, Feb. 13, 2008, at Hannibal Regional Hospital. He was born Jan. 6, 1922 in Pittsfield to Thomas nad Lucille Saylor Belford. He married Maudine May Chamberlain on Dec. 16, 1944, in Jacksonville, and she preceded him in death May 19, 2003. He was a self-employed petroleum jobber for DX Oil Company and Sonoco Oil Company. He also worked for O. B. Dell and Sons. Mr. Belford was a member of Pittsfield First Christian Church where he served as a deacon and elder. He was a member of the Pittsfield American Legion Post 152, Pittsfield Masonic Lodge 790 AF & AM, Quincy Consistory, and the Pittsfield Dance Club. He was a St. Louis Cardinals and Philadelphia Phillies baseball fan. He enjoyed attending his son's and grandchildren's sporting events. He served 36 years on the Pike County Board and coached numerous baseball teams from Little League to Legion ball. He served in the U.S. Army as a military policeman. Survivors include one son, Tim (Linda) Belford of Pittsfield, and 2 grandchildren, Brandon (Carrie) Belford of Highland and Brooke Belford of St. Charles, MO; a great-grandchild Easton Belford of Highland; a brother, Gene Belford of Pittsfield, and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by one brother Harry Belford, and 3 sisters, Marguerite Capps, Leta Dell, and Anna Mae Gerard. Funeral services were Saturday at the Niebur Funeral Home, Pittsfield, with Michael Ten Eyck officiating. Burial was at West Cemetery in Pittsfield. memorials were suggested to Pittsfield First Christian Church or the Illinis Hospital Nurses Fund.
Contributed by Colleen Bettenhausen - 20 Feb 2008, Pike Press, Pittsfield, Illinois

ZELMA E. (B(SSELL) BESS , 79, of Pittsfield, and formerly of Milton, died Thursday, March 12, 2009, at Passavant Area Hospital in Jacksonville following a lengthy illness. She was born Aug. 8, 1929 in Pearl the daughter of the late Paul L Bissell, Sr. and Helen M. Cox Bissell. She married Junior V. Bess Aug. 21, 1947 at Green Pond Christian Church near Pearl and he preceded her in death in 1971. Surviving is a daughter, Paula (Kathy) Castlebury and husband Don, Sr. of Winchester,; two sons, Gale Bess and wife Sandy of Indiana and Brad Bess of Pleasant Hill; 15 grandchildren, Donetta, Diana, Deana, Don Jr. and wife Annette, Delissa and husband Shane Jones, Tiffany and Jasmine Castleberry, Crystal, David and wife Trish, Ashley, Gale Jr., and Brittney Bess, Emily and Erica Bess; and her special grandson, Donald Paul Castleberry; eight great-grandchildren, Jonathon Hack, Madelyn, Samantha, Katelyn and Issac Bess, Faith and Zeke Castleberry and Heaven Castleberry; one sister, Glenna Donohoo and husband Richard of East Alton,; one brother-in-law, Keith Bess and wife Nina of Kampsville,; two nieces, Brenda Corbetto and Eva James; a great-great nephew, Trace Lopez; as well as several nieces, nephews, cousins, and two special friends, Karen Allen and Annette Freeman. Zelma was preceded in death by her parents; a great-granddaughter, Katelyn Jones; two sisters, Erma Rucker and Donna Stanley; a brother, Paul L. Bissell, Jr.; a nephew, Don Donohoo; a niece, Cheryl Donohoo; and one sister-in-law, Leota Bess Baker. Zelma and her sister, Donna Stanley, owned and operated restaurants in the Milton and Detroit area They also worked together at Capitol Records. While at Capitol Records, she loved playing softball for the company team and she never missed a Cardinal game. Zelma worked at Yelliott's Market in Milton. Zelma retired from Illini Community Hospital in 1987. Zelma was a member of the Illini Breakfast Club, Montezuma Club, and a member of the Green Pond Christian Church. Zelma devoted her life to her children. She was also proud of all her grandchildren. Zelma continued to be very proud of each of them holding a special place for each of them in her heart. Funeral services were held at 11 am. Monday, March 16 at the Airsman-Hires Funeral Home in Pittsfield. Burial was in Green Pond Cemetery near Pearl.
Contributed by Billie Browning - Pike Press

SHERRY LYNN BIDDLE , 60, of Cape Girardeau, Mo. died Thursday, Feb. 12, 2009, at Southeast Missouri Hospital in Cape Girardeau. She was born Nov. 5, 1948, in Pittsfield the daughter of Harry A. and Betty Joann (Blevins) Clough. She and Richard E. Biddle were married on July 9, 1971 at the Methodist Church in Quincy. She graduated from Griggsville High School in 1966 and a graduated of Gem City Business College in Quincy. She was a secretary for Moormans Mtg. Co. later with Doyle Mfg. Co. and then with St. Mary's Hospital in Quincy. Also with Pike County Federal Housing Authority in Barry. She retired in 2001. Former member of Ellington Memorial Presbyterian Church in Quincy. She moved to Cape Girardeau, Mo. in March of 2006. She is survived by: her husband, Richard E. Biddle of Cape Girardeau; her son, Jason S. (Lavonna) Biddle of Jackson, Mo.; her parents, Harry A. and Betty Joann Clough of Jackson; and a grandchild, Ryaan W. Biddle. She was preceded in death by son, Brian Biddle, died Dec.11, 1999. Visitation was held at Ford and Sons Mt. Auburn Funeral Home Tuesday, Feb. 17 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Funeral service were at Ford and Sons Mt. Auburn Funeral Home Tuesday, Feb. 17 at 1 p.m. with the Rev. Paul Kabo, Jr. officiating. Graveside services were at Ellington Memorial Presbyterian Church in Quincy, today, Wednesday, Feb. 18 at 1 p.m. Burial was at Ellington Home Cemetery. Memorials may be made to American Red Cross and Ellington Memorial Presbyterian Church of Quincy.. Ford and Sons Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.
Contributed by Billie Browning

SARAH (GREENE) BILL , was Born in Lanesborough, Berkshire County, MA. Somtime befrore 1800 her family moved to Trenton, Oneida County, NY. Sarah married Aaron Bill about 1808. About 1835 the family moved to Clark County, IN, where it is presumed her husband Aaron died sometime before 1850. Sarah and most of her children moved to Barry, Pike County, IL, where Sarah lived out her life.
Contributed by "Superkentman" on Find-A-Grave

CARL HOUSTON BLACKETER , 80, of Summer Hill, died Friday morning, April 23, 2004, at Illini Hospital in Pittsfield. He was born Sept. 21, 1923 near Rockport, to the late Marvin Houston and Thelma Irene Chaplin Blacketer. He married Marjorie Grimsley May 29, 1942 in Palmyra, Mo., and she survives. Also surviving are one daughter, Thelma Haughey (fiancée Jack McGraw) of New Salem; four sons, Carl Blacketer (wife Wanda) of rural Pittsfield, James R. Blacketer (wife Darlene) of Coatsburg, Daniel I. Blacketer of Baylis, Preston J. Blacketer (wife Linda) of Barry; 13 grandchildren; seven great-granchildren; one great-great-grandson; three sisters, Ilah Garner of Palmyra, Mo., Donna Coffey (fiancée Dwayne Hibbard) of Baylis and Marva Hurst (husband Bill) of Pittsfield; one brother, Robert Blacketer (wife Lynda) of Summer Hill; and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents; and one sister, Ella Mae Blacketer. Mr. Blacketer was a veteran of the U.S. Navy serving in World War II and received the Bronze Star of Valor and was a member of the Pittsfield American Legion and the Pike County VFW. He was a past employee of Kamar Buildings, Callender Construction, and Brown Shoe Company, all in Pittsfield. He loved music and loved playing and listening to country music. He was an avid sportsman. He also was an animal lover and loved his dogs. He was a member of the New Hartford Christian Church where he was a deacon. Funeral services were held at 11 a.m. Tuesday, April 27, at the New Hartford Christian Church with the Rev. Scott DeCamp officiating. Burial was in Samuel-Taylor Cemetery near Rockport, with military rites conducted by Pittsfield American Legion Post. Visitation was from 4 to 8 p.m. Monday at the Airsman-Hires Funeral Home in Pittsfield. Memorials may be made to the New Hartford Christian Church c/o the funeral home.
Contributed by Kathy Robinson

JENE BLACKETER , 82, of Baylis, died Thursday, May 7, 2009, at the Eastside Heathcare and Rehabilitation Center in Pittsfield. She was born Feb. 2, 1927 in Louisiana, Mo., to William Robert and Bertha Lena Elliott Eveland., She married Marvon H.S. Blacketer May 10, 1945 and he preceded her in death July 16, 1978. Mrs. Blacketer was a worked for Stark Brother's Nursery in Louisiana. She was a member of the United Methodist Church of Baylis. She enjoyed reading, making Christmas candy, watching the daily soap operas and feeding and watching the birds. She was very devoted to her family and especially enjoyed her grandchildren and great grandchildren. She is survived by one son, Robert (Linda) Blacketer of Pittsfield; two daughters, Mrs. Dona (Dwayne) Hibberd of Baylis and Mrs. Marva (Bill) Hurst of Griggsville; six grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; six great-great-grandsons; and one great-granddaughter. Funeral services were held Saturday, May 9, at 2:30 pm. at the Niebur Funeral Home in Pittsfield. Cremation rites were accorded per her wishes. Visitation was held at the Niebur Funeral Home Saturday from 1:30 p.m.
Contributed by Billie Browning from the "Pike Press"

MARVON H. BLACKETER - b: 15 Dec 1900, Sulpher Springs Mo.; d: 16 Jul 1978, Pittsfield, Il.; bu: Samuel Taylor Cemetery, Rockbridge, Il.; m: Jene Eveland (date and place not stated); fa: Thomas Blacketer; mo: Hanna Warren. Resident of rural Pittsfield. Survived by his wife; these children: Mrs. Ilah Garner of Palmyra, Mo., Mrs. Dona Coffey of Pittsfield, Miss Marva Blacketer of Pittsfield, Carl H. of Pittsfield, and Robert M. of Rockport; 13 grand and 11 g-grandchildren; and a brother: Thomas Blacketer of Rockbridge. Son of Thomas Sylvester Blacketer and Anna Warren. Husband of Thelma Irene Chaplin. Father of Carl, Ilah Blacketer Garner, Ella Mae, Robert, Dona Hibbard, Marva Hurst. Buried to his father's right (no stone) and to 1st wife Thelma Irene Chaplin ( to his right) and baby daughter Ella Mae in Thelma's arms.
Contributed by Kathy Robinson

GLADYS D. (GRIMSLEY) BLACKLEDGE , 79, of Quincy and formerly of Kinderhook, died Tuesday, Dec. 5, 2006 at Blessing Hospital in Quincy. She was born July 8, 1927, in Rockport, a daughter of William and Bertha (Keith) Grimsley. She married Jesse Leon (Lonnie) Blackledge July 21, 1943 and he preceded her in death Oct. 30, 1990. She is survived by 2 sons, Gerald "Jerry" Blackledge of Quincy and Randy Blackledge of Hull; 3 daughters, Rhonda Chesney of Kinderhook, Pam Stevens of Quincy and Lori Dietrick of Fowler; 15 grandchildren; 19 great grandchildren; and 12 great great grandchildren; 2 sisters, Lucille Ward of Rushville and Mabel Barber of Rock Island. She was preceded in death by a daughter Patricia; 7 brothers; and 4 sisters. Mrs. Blackledge was a retired seamstress for Penrose Uniforms. She liked to crochet and loved to play Bingo and cards. She was greatly loved by all her grandbabies. Funeral services were held Saturday at Kirgan Funeral Home in Barry. Burial was in Samuel Taylor Cemetery in Rockport. Memorials were suggested to the Quincy Senior & Family Resource Center.
Contributed by Kathy Robinson

JESSE LEON BLACKLEDGE - b: 24 Jun 1926, Rockport, Il.; d: 30 Oct 1990, Quincy, Il.; bu: Samuel Taylor Cemetery, Rockport, Il.; m: Gladys D. Grimsley on 21 Jul 1943 in Pittsfield, Il.; fa: William Henry Blackledge; mo: Viola Billings. Resident of Kinderhook, Il. WWII Army vet. Survived by his wife; two sons: Gerald Blackledge of Venice, Fla., and Randy Blackledge of Hull; three daughters: Rhonda Thomas of Kinderhook and Pam Stevens and Lori Ann Blackledge, both of Quincy; 13 grand and nine g-grandchildren; two brothers: William H. and Gilbert Blackledge of Rockport; and two sisters: Clara Bradley and Dora Ellison, both of Rockport. Preceded by a daughter: Patricia Altheide; a brother: Tom; and three sisters: Velma Foster, Cornelia and Dorothy Blackledge.
Contributed by Kathy Robinson

BETTY (GOEWAY) BLOYD , died Saturday, April 11, 2009, at Hunterdon Care Center in Raritan. She was 72. Mrs. Bloyd was born in Harden to Allen and Lucy Goewey. She moved to New Jersey in 1963 and lived in Somerset for 44 years prior to moving to Whiting three years ago. Mrs. Bloyd was a homemaker until 1980 when she went to work as a teacher's aide at Sampson G Smith School in Franklin Township. Mrs. Bloyd was an administrative Assistant for Johnson and Johnson until the mid 1990's when she went into home health care services. Mrs. Bloyd was predeceased by her husband Donald in 1983, and her brother Archie Goewey. Mrs. Bloyd is survived by her four sons, Bryan Bloyd, Brad Bloyd and Todd Bloyd, all of Flemington and Timothy Bloyd of Franklin Park; a step-son Kenny Bloyd of Detroit; three brothers, Don Goewey of Griggsville, Virgil "Butch" Goewey of Beaverton, Ore. and Wayne Goewey of Normal; two sisters, Ann Caselton of Jerseyville and Alice Curry of Griggsville; and eight grandchildren, Keith, Bailey and Megan Bloyd, Christopher and Mark and Samantha and Kyle Bloyd, all of Flemington, N.J. and Larissa Bloyd of Franklin Park, N.J. Services were held Thursday, April 16 at Gleason Funeral Home, 1360 Hamilton Street, Somerset, N.J.
Contributed by Billie Browning - Pike Press

PAULINE A. BLOYD , 76, of Pittsfield, died Monday, Sept. 14, 2009, at her residence. She was born Feb. 17, 1933 in Pittsfield, a daughter to Russell and Betty L. Fuller Niccum. She was employed by the Pike County Reach Out in Pittsfield and was a custodian for the Pittsfield Library. Surviving are one son, Kelly Bartlett and companion, Diana Genario of Palmyra, Mo.; one daughter, Debby Bartlett of Pittsfield; and one brother, Ed "Butch" Niccum of Illinois; four grandchildren, Ryan, Jaime, Scott and Kyle Bartlett; and four great-grandchildren, Raven, Christian, Hayden and Guin also survive. One son, Dan Bartlett, preceded her in death. Per Pauline's wish, no services will be held and cremation rites will be accorded. Family requests that memorials be made to the Pike County Senior Citizens Center or the Pike County Reachout in Pittsfield.
Contributed by Billie Browning - Pike Press

MINNIE M. (ROBERTS) BOOKER , 59, of Baylis, IL., died Wednesday (11/23/05) at Illini Community Hospital in Pittsfield. Born February 2, 1946 near Beverly, IL., she was a daughter of Fred L. and Marjorie E. Eckelberger Roberts. She married William T. Booker December 6, 1964 at Barry, IL. and he survives. She graduated from Pittsfield High School in 1964. In her early years she worked in the packing sheds at local Orchards and at Motorola in Quincy, IL. She had a strong faith in her Lord and was a member of the Pittsfield Assembly of God Church. She loved people and never met a stranger; she loved to garden and raised beautiful flowers, crocheting and mowing her yard. Survivors: her husband William T. Booker of Baylis, two sons, William T. (wife Teresa) Booker III, and Matthew T. (wife Hannah) Booker of Nebo, IL., one daughter Mrs. Donnie (Carmen Jean) Smith of Perry, IL., four grandchildren, Ross, Tiffany, Rachael and Chasady, seven sisters: Mary Ellen Clendenny of Godfrey, IL., Mrs. Robert (Hazel) Ghrist of Pittsfield, Juanita Griffin of Fishook, IL., Mrs. Larry (Ruby) Duke of Pittsfield, Mrs. Vern (Freda) Edwards of Barry, IL., Mrs. Lynda Schwalb of Baylis and Mrs. Jimmy (Brenda) Howard of Baylis, IL. and several nieces and nephews. Preceded by her parents and an infant sister Margaret Jean. Funeral services will be held Saturday, November 26, 2005 at 2:00 p.m. at the Niebur Funeral Home in Pittsfield, IL. with burial at the Baylis Cemetery. Friends may call at Niebur Funeral Home on Saturday, November 26, 2005 from noon till time of services.

LORRIS B. BOREN , 87, of Marseilles died Sunday, April 23, 2006, at Community Hospital of Ottawa. He was born Sept. 27, 1918 in Pearl, Illinois to Basil E. and Ruth (Donohoo) Boren. In 1940 he married Dorothy Vessells of Raywick, Ky. who preceded him in death in 1992. He served in the Army in World War II and received the Purple Heart. He was a member of VFW Post 5506 and was employed by the Army Corps of Engineers as lockmaster of the Marseilles Locks until his retirement. His survivors include two daughters, Sandi McConnell of Ottawa and Cindy (husband Steve) May of Bolingbrook; two sons, Terry (wife Mary) of Marseilles and Don (wife Georgie) of Seneca; eight grandchildren; 18 great-grandchildren; and one sister, Patricia (husband John) Diederich of Morris. He was preceded in death by his wife, a son, Larry, two grandsons, Derek and Jason Boren and a brother, Giles. Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. today, Wednesday, at Seals-Campbell Funeral Home in Marseilles with Rev. Duane Kaufman officiating. Burial will be in Riverview Cemetery with military honors. Visitation was held at Seals-Campbell Funeral Home from 5 to 8 p.m. Tuesday.
Contributed by Colleen Bettenhausen - Pike Press, Pittsfield, Illinois, 26 Apr 2006

EDITH I. (TITTSWORTH) BOWLER , 88, of Barry died June 2, 2005 at the Barry Community Care Center. Born near New Canton, IL February 27, 1917 she was a daughter of Fred and Bertha Davis Tittsworth. She married Roy Anderson October 1936 and he died in 1939. She then married Ross Williams and later married Harry Bowler in 1960 and he preceded her on May 2, 1999. She worked at Motorola in Quincy, IL and Carter Carburetor in St. Louis. She was a member of Jehovah's Witness at Florissant, MO. She enjoyed fishing, raising flowers, playing pinochle, pitch and poker. She loved raising flowers and tending to her yard and enjoyed her grandchildren, nieces and nephews. Survivors are: A daughter-in-law Twilla Anderson of Kirksville, MO, two stepsons: Joe and Keith Williams both of Quincy, IL., one step daughter Nina Mae Scibel of Clayton, IL., two brothers Jesse Tittsworth of Barry, IL, Alfred (wife Katherine) Tittsworth of New Canton, IL., three sisters; Edna Constable of Pittsfield, IL, Ruth Heissinger of Normal, IL and Grace Stephin of Barry, IL., four grandchildren; Mark and Lori Van Gorp of El Camp, TX, Paige (husband Jason) Nunn of Kansas City, MO, Roy Anderson of Kirksville, MO, Tony McReynolds (wife Mara) of Hannibal, MO. Also surviving are six great grandchildren, three great great grandchildren and several nieces and nephews and great nieces and nephews. She was preceded by a son Loren Anderson in 1979. Funeral services will be Sunday, June 5, 2005 at 2:00 p.m. at the Niebur Funeral Chapel in Barry, IL with Donald Hymers officiating. Friends may call Sunday, June 5, 2005 from noon till time of services at the funeral home. Cremation rites will be accorded following services as per her wishes and interment of the ashes will be at a later date at Park Lawn Cemetery in Barry, IL.

MAXINE T. (HUMPHREY) BRAMBLETT , 75, of Barry, formerly of New London, Mo. died Monday, Feb. 16, 2009 at Barry Community Care Center. She was born Nov. 19, 1933 in St. Louis, Mo. to Arthur Nathaniel and Hazel Anne Dishong Humphrey. She was first married to Ellis Calvin and he preceded her in death. She later married George H. Bramblett Jan. 25, 1963 in Hannibal, Mo. He preceded her in death March 5, 2008. Her survivors include four children, Rita Mills of California, Tom Calvin (Donna) of Foley, Mo., Ruth Holman (Greg) of Pleasant Hill and Norma Shade of New London, Mo.; one sister, Shirley Purler of Troy, Mo.; grandchildren, Angie Kalmar, Rick Calvin, Daniel and Richard Calvin, Mike, Sarah and Justin Holman and Danielle and Jene Alan Shade. She is preceded in death by her siblings, Robert Humphrey and Betty McClay; a grandson, Robby Calvin; and a great-grandson, Ethan Holman. Mrs. Bramblett was a Licensed Practical Nurse. She worked with a Home Health Agency. Mrs. Bramblett formerly owned and operated the Del-Max Café in Elsberry, MO. She enjoyed crafts, gardening, cooking, sewing and crocheting. She was involved in all the clubs that her children participated in. Mrs. Bramblett was a Christian by faith. Funeral services will be at 1 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 19 at the James O'Donnell Funeral Home in Hannibal with Brother Sammy Lorton and Brother Milton Gillian officiating. Burial will be at Grand View Burial Park in Hannibal. Visitation will be from noon until the time of services Thursday at the funeral home. Pallbearers will be Tom Calvin, Richard Calvin, Greg Holman, Mike Holman, Justin Holman and Richard Glascock
Contributed by Billie Browning

JOHN ROBERT BREWER , an old resident of Fishhook, died in the Soldiers' Home hospital in Quincy last Saturday. The remains were brought to his home in Fishhook Sunday and teh funeral was held at the family residence Monday morning, conducted by Rev. G.G. Maple of Perry. The interment was in the Woodland cemetery. The decedent was born April 12, 1840 in Kentucky but when he as 10 years old his parents moved to Illinois. Mr. Brewer spent the greater part of his life in Pike County. He never identified himself with any church, but believed earnestly in the teaching of the Golden Rule and practiced it throughout his life. He will be kindly remembered by many that he helped in life. He was formerly a member of the Masonic fraternity. He leaves an aged widow, two daughters and one son. Mr. Brewer saw active service in the civil war, having enlisted in the Fourth IL Cavalry.
Contributed by Roberta Summers
Pioneer Family

PATRICIA (MILLER) BRIERLEY , 78, of Florence, died in her home in Costa Mesa, Calif., Saturday, Jan. 3, 2009. She was born in Dayton, Ohio, July 14, 1930 to Stanley and Ann Kuzmak Miller. She was a newspaper reporter, teacher's aide for 20 years at Whittier Elementary School, Costa Mesa. She was an active member of the Griggsville Area Genealogical Society and Historical Society. She enjoyed spending time with her loving husband at their home on the KeLaSu and on the farm, they had north of Florence. Prior to her illness, she enjoyed reading, singing, knitting, sewing, and could recite from memory various poems such as "The Creation of Sam McGee," by Robert Service. She was a loving wife, mother and sister. She was a generous, kind and thoughtful soul. She will be greatly missed. Survivors include her husband, Vincent Laure Brierley, Newport Beach, Calif.; children, Patrick Miller, Kankakee, Charles Brierley, Minot, N.D., Thorjia Vaughn, Healdsburg, Calif., Liz Miller, Costa Mesa and Sarah Brierley, Auburn, Wash.; grandchildren, Elijah Miller, Kankakee, Tielor Howard, Prescott, Ariz., Tadd Brierley, Prescott; one brother, Stanley Miller, Sagamore Hill, Ohio; and a sister, Jane Tomko, St. Pete's Beach, Fla. Funeral services will be held 1:30 p.m. Friday, Jan. 9, at the Niebur Funeral Home, Pittsfield, IL. Burial will be at the Griggsville Cemetery, Griggsville. Lunch will be held following the services at the Niebur Funeral Home, Pittsfield. Memorials are donor's choice.
Contributed by Billie Browning

EARL H. BRUNENN , 95, of Barry, died Tuesday, June 2, 2009, at the Barry Community Care Center in Barry. He was born Jan. 24, 1914, near West Point, to John and Maude (Vornkohl) Brunenn. They preceded him in death. He married Virginia Gabel, May 28, 1939, in Fort Madison, Iowa. She survives in Barry. He is also survived by one son, Kent Brunenn, and his wife, Maxine, of Barry; one granddaughter, Lori McCuen, of Roswell, Ga.; and one great-granddaughter, Katie McCuen, of Roswell. He was preceded in death by one brother, Leo Brunenn and one sister, Mavis Whitledge. Earl completed 8th grade at Pleasant Hill School in West Point and graduated from West Point High School. He worked at an elevator at West Point for five years. He then chose to make a change and became a second generation grocery store manager. Earl moved his family to Barry in January 1952, to manage the Kiefer Grocery Store. He later purchased the store and with his son Kent, ran K & E Market and then K & E Super Valu at Barry. Earl joined the Masonic Lodge in 1946. He received his 50 year Masonic Pin in 1996. He belonged to the West Point Christian Church and was a past member of the Pike County Housing Authority. Visitation will be held from 5 - 7 p.m. Friday, June 5, at the Kirgan Funeral Home in Barry. Funeral services were held at 11 a.m. Saturday, June 6, at the Kirgan Funeral Home in Barry. Burial was in Park Lawn Cemetery, Barry. Memorials are suggested to the Barry Community Care Center Activity Fund.
Contributed by Billie Browning

MERVIN LEE BURBRIDGE , son of Mr. and Mrs. J. M. Burbridge, was born in Marble Head, November 10th. 1916, and died at Valley City, Ill., October 24, 1918, with influenza, aged 1 year, 11 months and 14 days. He was a dear little boy, loved by all who knew him. He was buried in the Griggsville cemetery Fri­day afternoon, October 25th. Short funeral services were held at the grave, conducted by Rev. J., D. Roach The family expects to return to their home at Marble Head soon and it will be a sad home coming for them without their baby boy. They have the deepest sympathy of the en­tire community.
Source: The Independent Press(Griggsville, IL), October 30, 1918 Submitted by Delaine Donaldson

THOMAS G. BURBRIDGE , 69 of Pittsfield, died Friday, June 19, 2009 at Blessing Hospital in Quincy. He was born Feb.17, 1940 in Quincy. He was a son of Eugene and Ailene Marshall Burbridge. Tom married Karon T. Bartlett June 29,1961 in Pittsfield, at the home of her sister, Dora Zumwalt. Tom served his country in the United States Air Force. He worked at King Feed Mill, Pea Ridge Elk Ranch and operated Tom's Wood Shop all in Pittsfield, and also worked at Fleetwood Motor Home Manufacturing in Riverside CA. He was a Methodist by faith, a lifetime member of Pittsfield American Legion Post 152, he enjoyed woodworking, boating on the Illinois River and spending time at the family cabin south of Florence and enjoyed people and visiting. Survivors are his wife, Karon Burbridge of Pittsfield; two sons, Michael (wife Tomme) Burbridge of Pittsfield and Marshal (wife Cathy) Burbridge of Raymond; a brother, Steven Burbridge of Kentucky; and a sister, Mrs. Lana Hartley of Millinocket, Maine; five grandchildren; and one great-grandson. He was preceded by his parents. Funeral services will be today, Wednesday, June 24 at 7 p.m. at the Niebur Funeral Home with Rev. Jim Jacques officiating. Cremation rites will be accorded following services. Friends may call at the Niebur Funeral Home Wednesday after 5 p.m. till time of services. Memorials are to the donor's choice. Military Funeral honors will be conducted at the Niebur Funeral home
Contributed by Billie Browning - from the Pike Press

JOSEPH FREDERICK BUSHMEYER , age 59, of 13287 Stolte Lane, Hull, died Tuesday, Oct. 28, 2008, in Hannibal Regional Hospital. He was born April 2, 1949 in Hannibal, Mo. to Merle C. and Hester M. Linkous Bushmeyer. He attended the Pike County Work Activity Center at Pittsfield and was active with the family farm for 50 years where he especially liked driving the biggest and newest piece of equipment. He was an avid St. Louis and West Pike Cardinals Fan. Joe was active in Special Olympics where he had participated from the beginning of the program. He loved to drive his antique tractor in the Hull Picnic and New Canton Harvest Festival parades. He had many friends at the Hannibal Dialysis Center, and always loved going to McDonalds afterwards. He was well loved in the Pike County area. Survivors include his mother, Hester M. Bushmeyer; four brothers and a sister, Gary Bushmeyer and wife Mary Kaye of Quincy, Donna Koeller and husband Jim of New Canton, Rodney Bushmeyer and wife Carol of Hull, Charles Dan Bushmeyer and wife Cindy of Seattle, Wa. and Steve Bushmeyer and wife Lorey of Hull; ten nieces and nephews, Matt Bushmeyer of Bloomington, Annie Bushmeyer of Nashville, Tenn., Calvin Koeller and wife Cindy of Burlington, Iowa, Carissa Koeller of Nashville, Joseph A. Bushmeyer and wife Kim of O'Fallon, Mo., Tenille Sonethongkham and husband Noi of Quincy, Bryce Bushmeyer of Hull, Troy and Jessica Bushmeyer, both of Seattle and Kristopher Bushmeyer of Hull; several great nieces and great nephews. He was preceded in death by his father. Services were held at 10 am Monday, Nov. 3, at Hansen-Spear with Rev. Mark Burkey officiating. Burial was in Grand View Burial Park, Hannibal, Mo. Visitation was held from 4 to 8 p.m. Sunday at Hansen-Spear. In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to Pike County Work Activity Support Group in Joe's name. Hansen-Spear Funeral Directors are in charge of arrangements.
Contributed by Billie Browning