Gent Funeral Home

01/08/2026

James Borden Lynch Obituary:
James Borden Lynch, 73, died at 12:20 p.m. on Tuesday, December 30, 2025 at Missouri Baptist Medical Center. He was born December 9, 1952 in Charlotte, NC, the son of the late Herbert Adolphus and Doris Louise (Hiller) Lynch.
Following service in the United States Army, Jim graduated from the University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill in 1976, where he majored in political science and acquired a lifelong love of the North Carolina Tar Heels.
He then attended the University of Virginia School of Law, graduating in 1980. There he made lifelong friends, particularly with his small section (Section L), many of whom continued to regularly share news and memories and even take trips together more than 40 years after the conclusion of their time in Charlottesville.
Although a native of the Southeast, Jim’s career next took him to the frozen plains of Minnesota, where he began working as an attorney at the law firm of Dorsey & Whitney in Minneapolis. He began as a trial lawyer and later served as longstanding counsel to numerous medical associations and medical certifying boards—including the American Academy of Ophthalmology and the American Board of Ophthalmology, as well as the American Board of Radiology. Here, too, he acquired not only clients but lifelong friends, particularly through his decades as legal counsel to the AAO’s Ethics Committee.
In Minneapolis, Jim met, and on May 12, 1990, married Melissa Draper, who survives. Also surviving are his son, Daniel Draper Lynch of Washington, D.C., two sisters, Jane Lynch of Durham, NC and Frances Tuttle of Orinda, CA, a nephew, Tim Hultzman (Sarah Guidi) of Raleigh, NC, great nephew Theo Hultzman and great niece Linden Hultzman, cousin Herbert Harriss (Karen) of Wilmington, NC, his mother-in-law, Patricia Draper of Bethalto, and cousins-in-law Joyce Fleming (Gary) of Alton, Julie Fleming-Vambaketes of East Alton, and Dr. Jason Fleming of Carmel, IN. Besides his parents, he was preceded in death by his father-in-law, George M. Draper of Bethalto.
Visitation will start at 10:30 AM on Monday, January 12, 2026 followed by a brief service at 11:00 led by Father John Wykes. Burial will be at Bunker Hill Cemetery with military honors. Memorials may be made to Doctors Without Borders, World Central Kitchen, or the American Cancer Society. Additional information and online guestbook may be found at

The passing of a loved one is a difficult time. We are here to help you honor and celebrate their life, and to begin the healing process for your family.

01/08/2026

Ben Allen Jr. passed away Saturday January 3, 2026, in Lawrence, Kansas with his family by his side. He was born December 18, 1960 in Alton, Illinois to Ben and Trudi, Benjie was the oldest of three children. Ben graduated from Alton High School in 1979 and went on to attend The University of Oklahoma. He was a talented and self-taught musician and artist. Ben began playing the piano as a child and quickly became prolific in classical and later contemporary music. He was in constant pursuit of knowledge, curious about the workings of the world. From antiquities to current events, he was a wealth of knowledge, which, sometimes to the chagrin of his family, was usually superior. Ben had a mind of his own and informed opinions that he was happy to share. He was a skilled and avid chess player as well. Benjie enjoyed childhood summers in Saugatuck, and one special summer spent with his Uncle Hube managing the archeological dig in Morgantina, Sicily. Ben moved to Lawrence in 2004 to be closer to his beloved University of Kansas. Ben was preceded in death by his dear friend and cousin Lee Allen, and his grandparents, Hub and Berta Allen and Al and Na Weber.
Benjie is survived by his parents, Ben and Trudi, his brother Peter (Gina), and his sister Betsy (Eddie Sholar), 7 cousins and 5 nieces and nephews. Gent Funeral Home in Alton is in charge of arrangements. Online guestbook and information may be found at

The passing of a loved one is a difficult time. We are here to help you honor and celebrate their life, and to begin the healing process for your family.

01/03/2026

Dateline: Godfrey
After a long battle with his health, Robert Bryant II, 59, of Alton, passed away January 1, 2026, at DePaul Hospital in St. Louis, Mo. Robert was born to Robert and Marjory (Hand) Bryant on December 23, 1966, in Alton.
He graduated from Alton High School and then...

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12/26/2025

Dateline: Godfrey, IL
Nathaniel “Nate” Lee Mowers, 46, passed away at 7:58 a.m. on Tuesday, December 23, 2025 at DePaul Hospital in St. Louis. He was born March 29, 1979 in St. Louis, MO the son of Terry and Theresa (Varble) Mowers. Nate was a resident of Beverly Farm in Godfrey. Besides his parents he is survived by two brothers, Thomas Mowers, Hayden Mowers and four sisters, Penny Booth (Rob), Britini Lucore, Tiffiny Seemann and Megan Mowers. A memorial visitation will be from 2:00 p.m. until time of Celebration of Life service at 3:00 p.m. on Saturday January 3, 2026 at Gent Funeral Home in Alton. Reverend Roger Bruce will officiate. Memorials may be made to Cerebral Palsy Foundation. Online information and online guestbook may be found at www.gentfuneralhome.com

12/26/2025

Harry Kortkamp, 92, of Alton, passed away December 25, 2025 at Alton Memorial Hospital. Harry was born to Harry and Charlotte (Johndrow) Kortkamp on February 3, 1933 in Alton.
He graduated from Alton High School in January 1951 and immediately enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps. He was deployed in central and eastern Korea as a telephone lineman for military communication. He spent 13 months in Korea and 3 years with the Marines. He was honorably discharged at the rank of Sergeant in 1954.
Upon leaving the military he started his career as a sheet metal worker. He retired in 1995 after spending most of his career at Camp Electric in Alton.
He married Sarah Wetstein in June 1954. Harry and Sarah were married 46 years until her passing in December 2000.
He is survived by daughters, Vicki (Lee) Eft of Des Moines, IA, Robin (Bob) Bowen of Loudon, TN, and a son, Rich Kortkamp of Godfrey. Also surviving are grandchildren, Mike and Michelle Bowen, Ryan and Ashley Eft, Rachel and Alise Kortkamp, and a great granddaughter, Amber Eft.
Harry was one of 13 children. Surviving him are Pat McIntyre, Tom Kortkamp and Denise Stevenson. He was preceded by his siblings, Marcella Fluck, Dolores Hill, Sharon Seal, Morris Eugene, Roy, Frederick, Gary, Ralph and Paul Kortkamp.
Harry was a member of the Alton VFW Post 1308 and Alton American Legion, as well as Detachment 1160 of the Marine Corp League. He served as Post Commander for the VFW Post from 2010-2015. He touched many lives with his many years of coaching Catholic grade school basketball, girls’ softball, Khoury League baseball and American Legion baseball. He was very instrumental in the start up and formation of the Godfrey Khoury League.
Visitation will be from 11:00 a.m. until time of funeral service at 1:00 p.m. Monday, December 29, 2025 at Gent Funeral Home in Alton. Father Steve Janoski will officiate. Burial will be at St. Patrick’s Cemetery in Godfrey with full military honors. Memorials may be made to the VFW Post 1308 Ritual Team. Online guestbook and information may be found at www.gentfuneralhome.com

12/17/2025

Dateline: Wood River

Lesia Michelle “Snapz” Pappas, 62, passed away peacefully at 2:45 p.m. on Saturday, December 13, 2025, at her residence in Wood River, Illinois.
Born on July 5, 1963, in Alabama, Lesia lived a life marked by resilience, warmth, and an unmistakable spirit that left a lasting impression on all who knew her. Known affectionately as “Snapz,” she had a vibrant personality, a sharp wit, and a deep love for her family and chosen family alike. She was employed at Terrace Cannabis in Alton, where she was known not just as a coworker, but as a friend.

She is survived by her beloved daughter, Christina Michelle; her sons, Vincent and Nicholas, whom she loved fiercely and took great pride in, always believing in their strength and their futures; her life partner, Dan Garrick; and her cherished dog and constant companion, Pretty Boy Floyd from Compton. She was preceded in death by her infant son, Alexander (1995), and her husband, Edward Joseph Pappas III (2005).

“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope”— Jeremiah 29:11

She is now at peace, held in God’s promise, and her love continues to shine through those she embraces in spirit. With hope in God’s promise, her family finds comfort in knowing her love endures beyond this life.

A memorial visitation will be held from 11:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. on Monday, December 22, 2025, at Gent Funeral Home in Alton. Memorials may be made toward the continued care and living expenses of Pretty Boy Floyd. Additional information and an online guestbook are available at

The passing of a loved one is a difficult time. We are here to help you honor and celebrate their life, and to begin the healing process for your family.

12/16/2025

Dateline: Alton
Alice “Joy” Bramley, 84, died at 2:35 p.m. Tuesday, September 16, 2025 at Evelyn’s House in St. Louis, MO. Born July 7, 1941 in St. Louis, MO, she was the daughter of Homer L. Sr. and Alice Loy (Wise) Harder. She married Gene Bramley on January 11, 1963 in Alton. He survives. Also surviving are three daughters, Tamara “Tammi” Bramley-Cash (Greg) of Alton, Reverend Angeline “Angi” Tharakan of Springfield, MO, and Mitzi Mellenthin (Jeff) of Missouri City, TX. One of her favorite titles was Oma to her surviving 8 grandchildren, Chelsea (Jack) Miller, Abigail (Phillip) Knoche, Joseph (Maribel) Mellenthin, Hope Cash (Levi Davies), Noah (Anna) Cash, Jonathan Mellenthin (Zerryn Hogan), Asha and Amrit Tharakan; 8 great grandchildren Yesica (Gilbert), Jose, Henri, Natalie, Amy, Buddy, Adelina and James and one great great grandchild, Antonella. She is also survived by a sister, Linda Basden (Rich) of Michael, IL, and a sister-in-law, Barbara Harder of Edwardsville, along with several nieces, nephews, and other extended family. Along with her parents, she was preceded in death by her brother, Homer L. “Bud” Harder, Jr. and a sister and brother-in-law, Kathleen “Kathy” and Richard Harting, and her in-laws, Vern E. and Estelle J. (Yager) Bramley.
A woman of deep, personal faith, Joy was a prayer warrior and lived a life of service to her Lord. A faithful member of the Upper Alton Baptist Church, she served as a Sunday School, VBS, and Pioneer Club teacher; was active in the Jewell Circle, in church leadership, and other mission-related work. She was a camp counselor, director, and a Camp Board member for the Great Rivers Region of the American Baptist Churches. She also was active with Women’s Aglow.
Joy graduated with the first class of Southern Illinois University Edwardsville (on the Alton campus) and was a classroom and substitute teacher for many years. In her later years Joy began painting as a hobby, finding a real passion and talent for her craft. Her family and many others will treasure her priceless art. She also taught painting classes at Evergreen Place. The family wishes to express their deep gratitude to the staff of Evergreen for the loving care she received there. Joy lived out her name with an infectious smile and an always ready hug.
A Celebration of Life will be held at Upper Alton Baptist Church on Tuesday, December 23, 2025 at 11:00 a.m. with a meal to follow. Reverend Brad Donoho will be officiating. Attendees are asked to bring, if able, a non-perishable food item for a community agency.
Memorials may be made to Upper Alton Baptist Church.
Gent Funeral Home in Alton was in charge of arrangements. Online guestbook and information may be found at

The passing of a loved one is a difficult time. We are here to help you honor and celebrate their life, and to begin the healing process for your family.

12/14/2025

Dateline: Brighton
John Emery Bramley Jr., 70, died at 7:40 p.m. Friday, December 12, 2025 at Alton Memorial Hospital. Born February 10, 1955 in Carrollton, IL, he was the son of John E. Bramley Sr. and Frances (Howard) Bramley. John retired from the Alton Belle Casino as security supervisor. He later became chairman of the Brighton Park and Rec Department. On October 17, 1975 he married the love of his life Brenda A. Rodgers in Alton. She survives. Also surviving is a daughter, Beth Bramley (Rodney Bollini) of Brighton, a son, Ryan Bramley of Chatham, IL, four grandchildren, Dylan Brown (Paige), Arianna Brown, Halie Bollini and her fiancé Will Mortland, and Brenden Bollini, three great grandchildren, Rylan Mortland, Rowan Mortland and Weston Brown, and a brother-in-law, Mike Rodgers of Moro. Along with his parents, he was preceded in death by two sisters, Diana Groves and Carolyn Rutledge.
A memorial visitation will be held from 2:00-5:00 p.m. Saturday, December 20, 2025 at the Assembly of God Church in Brighton.
Memorials may be made to the Brighton Park and Rec Department. Online guestbook and information may be found at www.gentfuneralhome.com

12/13/2025

Dateline: Brighton
John Emery Bramley Jr., 70, died at 7:40 p.m. Friday, December 12, 2025 at Alton Memorial Hospital. Born February 10, 1955 in Carrollton, IL, he was the son of John E. Bramley Sr. and Frances (Howard) Bramley. John retired from the Alton Belle Casino as security supervisor. He later became chairman of the Brighton Park and Rec Department. On October 17, 1975 he married the love of his life Brenda A. Rodgers in Alton. She survives. Also surviving is a daughter, Beth Bramley (Rodney Bollini) of Brighton, a son, Ryan Bramley of Chatham, IL, four grandchildren, Dylan Brown (Paige), Arianna Brown, Halie Bollini and her fiancé Will Mortland, and Brenden Bollini, three great grandchildren, Rylan Mortland, Rowan Mortland and Weston Brown, and a brother-in-law, Mike Rodgers of Moro. Along with his parents, he was preceded in death by two sisters, Diana Groves and Carolyn Rutledge.
A memorial visitation will be held from 2:00-5:00 p.m. Saturday, December 20, 2025 at the Assembly of God Church in Brighton.
Memorials may be made to the Brighton Park and Rec Department. Online guestbook and information may be found at

The passing of a loved one is a difficult time. We are here to help you honor and celebrate their life, and to begin the healing process for your family.

12/11/2025

David Weston Cole Sr., 72, died, surrounded by his loving family, Wednesday, December 10, 2025 at his home in Alton. Born February 12, 1953 in Carrollton, IL, he was the son of Warren Darrell Cole Sr. and Lois Curtis (Henderson) Cole. Wes graduated from Greenfield High School in 1971and graduated from Illinois College in 1976. He retired from Boeing in January 2024 as a facility engineer after 39 years of service and was a founding member of Faith Fellowship Church in Alton. On December 1, 1973 he married his high school sweetheart, Susan Eileen Kozonasky in Alton. She survives. Along with his wife he is survived by a daughter, Jacqueline Sue Ridgley (Michael) of Alton, two sons, David W. Turner-Cole (Dr. Jason Turner-Cole) of Edwardsville and Andrew Curtis Cole of Alton; and four grandchildren, Johnathon Ridgley, Alayna E. Turner-Cole, Jackson Ridgley, and Kennedy Ridgley. Also surviving are two brothers, Warren Cole Jr. (Janice) of Greenfield, IL and William Cary Cole (Amber) of Wixon, MI, a niece, who was like a sister to him, Janette Routien (Trent) of Robinson, IL as well as other nieces and nephews. He is also survived by his sisters-in-law, Marcia Kozonasky-Dean of Godfrey, Mary Kozonasky of Alton, Claudia Kozonasky of Alton and several nieces and nephews. Along with his parents, he was preceded in death by his in-laws, John and Ruth Kozonasky, brother-in-law, John Kozonasky and a sister, Janis Tepen. A Memorial visitation will be from 9:00 a.m. until time of service at 1:00 p.m. Friday, December 19, 2025 at Faith Fellowship Church, 4719 Seminary Road, Alton, IL 62002. Reverend Dr. Daymond Talkington will officiate. Memorials may be made to the Wes Cole Memorial Fund. Gent Funeral Home in Alton is in charge of arrangements. Online guestbook and information may be found at www.gentfuneralhome.com

12/11/2025

Jeremiah Wayne Jones, 45, of Jerseyville, Illinois, passed away on December 9, 2025. Born on October 7, 1980, in Alton, Illinois. Jeremy lived a life marked by deep love for his family, dedication to his work, with a smile and spirit that touched everyone who knew him.

Jeremy’s heart belonged to his family. He is lovingly remembered by his wife Melessia; their children Haylie and Jude; his mother Teresa Jones; and his sister Elizabeth (Donny) McCord; Brother Kent (Jennelle) Highsmith. His extended family includes mother and father-in-law Mary and Zane Zimmerman; brother-in-law Shane (Julie) Hendricks; sister-in-law Christy Zimmerman; sister-in-law Monica Hendricks ; brother-in-law Zane (Liezl) Zimmerman; sister-in-law Laura (David) Balai; as well as many cherished nieces and nephews, Kayla, Kody, Camron, Katy, Kylie, Daniel, Joslyn, Cheyanne, Layla, Gabe, Andrew, Able, and Mackenzie.

He was preceded in death by his father, Dick Dewayne Jones, and nephews Damien and Joseph.

For the past 26 years, “Wiz” was a devoted member of the Lerry-Meade Concrete family. His commitment and work ethic earned him not only the respect of his colleagues but also lasting friendships that extended beyond the job site. He took pride in his work and found purpose in being part of a team that valued hard work and camaraderie.

Outside of work and family life, Jeremy found joy on the golf course where he spent time with “the Sunday morning guys,” sharing laughs and friendly competition over eighteen holes. It was during these moments even though some days he said he was terrible at that dumb game, he loved it.

He also enjoyed his time coaching various sports throughout the years and helping to guide those boys through life.

Those who knew Jeremy remember him as the best of the best—genuine, caring, and kind. He was the guy who would do anything for anyone. He truly had a heart of gold. His presence brought warmth to every room, and his loyalty ran deep for those he loved.

A visitation to honor Jeremy’s life will be held from 4:00-8:00 p.m. Monday, December 15, 2025 at Gent Funeral Home in Alton.

Memorials may be made to his children through an account at Liberty Bank in Alton.

May his memory bring comfort to all who knew him.
Online guestbook and information may be found at www.gentfuneralhome.com

12/10/2025

Dateline: Maryville
John Griffin Fagala, 79, of Maryville, IL went to be with his heavenly father at 4:46 am, Sunday, November 30, 2025 at Eden Village Retirement Center. John was born on December 24, 1945 in Alexandria, VA to the late Holmes Griffin and Mabel Beatrice (Johnson) Fagala. John grew up in Eureka, MO attending school in House Springs before transferring to Broadview Academy, North Aurora Illinois where he graduated. John enlisted in the United States Army in 1967 where he served as a Medical Specialist based in Germany during the Vietnam War. John married Marlene (Schlemer) Elliott on June 7, 1986 at St. Luke’s United Methodist Church in Maryville, IL. John retired as a Police Officer for the Department of Defense at (NGA) National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency in St Louis, MO. John was a very active member of St. Luke’s United Methodist Church in Maryville, IL where he played in the Hand Bell Choir, sang in the Vocal Choir, attended Disciple Classes and was involved in multiple mission trips. John was an avid reader and racquetball player, loved puzzles, enjoyed working out, traveling, attending Christian music events, singing with Raise the Praise Choir and spent countless hours attending events with his grandchildren. John and Marlene were a host family for the Gateway Grizzlies Baseball team for many years. John loved everything about his country, always reading or visiting historical sites and never forgetting what sacrifices were made for our freedom.
John is survived by his loving wife of 39 years, Marlene Fagala, along with his daughters, Dawn Marie Fagala-House of Glen Carbon, IL, Marla Kay (John) Grant of Glen Carbon, IL, Monica Fay (John) Wright of Troy, IL, Melinda Gay Kershaw of Maryville, IL, Melissa May Elliott-Menne of St. Louis, MO and Melanie Rae (Brad) Szedlar of Maryville, IL.
Grandchildren, Madison Fagala, Samuel House and Jackson House of Glen Carbon, Nicole (Chris) Mueth of Maryville and Danielle (Jason) Foley of Collinsville, Brendan (Heather) Wright of St. Jacob and Keaton (Peyton) Wright of Troy, Savannah Danks of Glen Carbon, Taylor (John) Weidner of Maryville and Mason Kershaw of Glen Carbon, Elliot Ellis, Natalie Menne, Christian Menne, and Jacob Menne all of St. Louis, Major Cole (Amanda) Trover of Troy, Caira (Nicholas) Carter of Wood River and Chase Trover of Bunker Hill.
Great grandchildren, Brett Mueth of O’Fallon, Brady Mueth of Maryville, Makayla Foley, Makenna Foley and Macie Foley all of Collinsville, Carsyn Wright of St. Jacob, Kollyns Wright and Brooks Wright both of Troy, Preston Danks of Glen Carbon, Rhea Weidner of Maryville, Lukas Ellis and Charlotte Ellis both of St. Louis.
Sisters, Esther (Jerry) Mastbaum, of Dayton, OH, Phebe Fagala of Dayton, OH. Brothers, Charles (Denise) Fagala, Sr. of Dayton, OH, Reuben (Beth) Fagala of Kansas City, MO. Along with countless nieces and nephews.
Visitation will be on Friday, December 19, 2025, from 4:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. at the St. Luke’s United Methodist Church in Maryville and will continue from 10:00 a.m. until time of service at 11:00 a.m. Saturday, December 20, 2025 at St. Luke’s United Methodist Church with a lunch to follow. Memorials can be made to St. Lukes United Methodist Church, Maryville, IL. Private family interment will be at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery with full military honors. Gent Funeral Home in Alton, IL is in charge of funeral services.
Additional information and guestbook may be found at www.gentfuneralhome.com