Mott & Henning Funeral Home

11/29/2025

Rachel Lee Olson, age 48, of Cantrall, Illinois, passed away on Tuesday, November 25, 2025, at Barnes Jewish Hospital in St. Louis, Missouri, surrounded by her loved ones, after a year-long battle with Acute Myeloid Leukemia.

Rachel was born May 23, 1977, in Springfield, Illinois, the daughter of Jerry and Marlene (Markey) Olson. She grew up in Cantrall and graduated from Sacred Heart Griffin High School in 1995.

Rachel will be missed terribly by her children, Noah and Mia Jones; her mother, Marlene Olson; her sisters, Tricia (Fred) Schlosser and Kristina (Graham) Prellwitz; her brothers, Lance (Amy) Olson and Eric (Jerin) Olson; her nieces and nephews, Jasmin Olson, Sam and Nick Schlosser, and Lilly, Emmy, Peter, and Teddy Olson. She also leaves behind her most beloved pets, Dolly and Willie.

Rachel was joyfully reunited on the other side with her father, Jerry; her brothers, James Vincent and Bradley Olson; her niece, Savannah Olson; and her aunt, Mary Lou Markey.

Rachel began her career at Vine Street Clinic as a research coordinator—work that brought her tremendous pride. She later transitioned into medical coding for Memorial Medical Center and St. John’s Hospital and most recently served as a coding compliance auditor for the State of Illinois.

Rachel was also the creative spark behind the sisters’ boutique, Itty Bitty Fashion Truck. One summer afternoon in 2014, she brought the wild idea to her sisters—a mobile boutique, long before the concept was common. The idea was just bold enough, just “Rachel” enough, that her sisters ran with it. Her vision and enthusiasm helped lay the foundation for what would become a beloved local business rooted in sisterhood, style, and community.

Rachel was always the smartest and funniest person in the room. She had a beautiful way with words—if you ever received a card from her, you saved it, because her writing made it a keepsake. After her diagnosis, she often joked that she would have to write her own obituary. We hope we are doing her justice.

Rachel found peace and grounding in her yoga practice and returned to it again and again. She loved a good meal and delighted in seeking out the very best restaurants wherever she traveled. She was a loyal, devoted friend to so many.

Above all, Rachel was a devoted mother. Noah and Mia were the absolute loves of her life, and everything she did centered around them. She never missed a baseball game, and she cherished taking her daughter to see Taylor Swift—twice. She showed up for her children every single day, in every possible way.

Rachel showed up for people—always. If you would like to show up for Rachel, visitation will be held at Mott & Henning Funeral Home on Wednesday, December 3, from 4:00–7:00 p.m.

Cremation rites will be accorded. Memorial contributions can be made to Noah and Mia's education fund, via her existing GoFundMe. https://gofund.me/7e7868a3d

Mott & Henning Funeral Home is assisting the family. Online condolences can be shared at www.mottandhenning.com.

As Rachel reminded us throughout this past year: “Listen, I love you. Joy is coming.”

Mott & Henning Funeral Home is assisting the family. On-line condolences can be shared at www.mottandhenning.com.

11/17/2025

Steven E. Phillips, age 64, of Greenview, was welcomed into heaven on Saturday, November 15, 2025 at HSHS St. John’s Hospital in Springfield. Steve’s legacy is carried on by his family: wife, Sue; children, Joe (Kati) Day, Amy (Jim) West, Brian (Cassandra Hustedt) Phillips, Andy Phillips; grandchildren Liam West, Leo Day, Eden West; brothers Mike (Marlene) Phillips, Dave Phillips; several nieces, nephews, and cousins. He is preceded in death by his parents, Don and Peggy (Morgan) Phillips.

Steve was born on January 23, 1961 in Harvey, IL. After graduating from University High School in Normal, he attended Illinois State University where he earned his Master’s Degree in Political Science.

Steve met Sue in the Singles Group at West Side Christian Church where they enjoyed many activities together including hot tea and conversation after Tuesday night Bible study. On an uncharacteristically snowy May 6th of 1989, the two were married at Funk’s Grove Church.

In August of 2025, Steve celebrated 40 years of employment with the State of Illinois. He achieved his long term goal of becoming Supervisor over training for the Illinois Department of Transportation. During his accomplished career, he also taught courses in state and local government at Lincoln Land Community College and Illinois State University.

Steve served over 20 years on the board of Greenview schools, most of those years as president. He was proud that all four of his kids graduated from Greenview and he personally presented each of them with their diplomas at graduation. He served as deacon and elder at Greenview Christian Church and was involved at Mason City Christian Church for many years. Steve was a board member of the Greenview Community Improvement Association where he played an important role as pie judge in the annual Labor Day events and a core participant at Chocolate Sunday.

Among his many hobbies, Steve enjoyed reading and sharing his knowledge with others. He had an enthusiastic singing voice, and a big bold laugh. He loved fishing, diners, and trains, but none surpassed the love he had for his family.

Visitation will be held at Mott & Henning Funeral Home on Friday, November 21st from 4:00-7:00pm. Funeral Services will be at Greenview Christian Church on Saturday, November 22nd at 10:30am with burial to follow at Elmwood Cemetery.

Memorial contributions can be made to Greenview CIA or Greenview Christian Church.

Mott & Henning Funeral Home is assisting the family. On-line condolences can be shared at www.mottandhenning.com.

11/10/2025

Vickie Sue Davis, age 63, of Athens, passed away on Monday, November 10, 2025 at Memorial Medical Center in Springfield.

She was born December 22, 1961 in Peoria, IL, the daughter of Marion L. and Patsy L. (Bell) Hopkins.

Vickie married Robert on April 24, 1989.

Mourning her passing are her husband, Robert; children, Ryan (Sami) Davis and Matthew Davis; grandchildren, Emma, Keagan, Carson, Kiara, and Colter; siblings, Gale King, Christine Andersen, and Diana Strube; many nieces and nephews.

She is preceded in death by her parents; and siblings, Debbie Simpkins, Rick Hopkins, Heath Hopkins, and Curtis Hopkins.

She worked for J & J Cleaners for over 20 years.

Vickie loved collecting Merry Moos Cows, watching family participate in Motorsports, and especially spending time with her kids and grandkids.

Cremation rites will be accorded.

A Celebration of Life will be held at the Athens City Hall, Athens, Illinois on December 13, 2025 from 1:00 PM until 5:00 PM.

Memorial contributions can be made to American Cancer Society.

Mott & Henning Funeral Home is assisting the family. On-line condolences can be shared at www.mottandhenning.com.

11/08/2025

Charles Burrus, age 92, of Williamsville, passed away on Wednesday, November 5, 2025 at Vonderleith Living Center in Mt. Pulaski, Illinois.
Charles was born in Springfield, Illinois on February 10, 1933, the son of Charles O. and Dorothy (Enos) Burrus.
He married Patricia Lofboom in 1959.
Mourning his passing are his wife, Pat; children, Michelle (Kevin) Schafer, Cindy (Rex) Partlow, and Jill Burrus; siblings, Nancy Dick, Carolyn Stone, Dorothy May Syler, and David (Elaine) Burrus; grandchildren: Erin (Brandon) Luparell, Carly (Jayson) DiManche, Eric (Shannon) Partlow, Amanda(Brett) Fogerson, Great grandchildren: Julian DiManche, Roman Dimanche, Marley Luparell, Kobe (Sydney) Partlow, Brody Osterbur, Paisley Partlow, Silas Partlow, Fletcher Partlow, Avery Fogerson.
He was preceded in death by his parents, and brother JW Burrus.
Charles attended Prairie School Elementary and Williamsville High school, graduating in 1951. He attended the University of Illinois for one year, and then served in the United States Army from 1953-1955. Upon discharge from the Army he went back to the University of Illinois to finish his degree, graduating in 1958 with a degree in Animal Science and Farm Management.
He returned to Buffalo Hart and began farming. He raised corn, soybeans, wheat, alfalfa and oats. He also raised cattle and started his hog herd on outside pastures. He became one of the early innovators of confinement production in the hog industry, co-owning Sangamon Prairie Pork Farm with his son-in-law.
He was a member of the Sangamon County Pork Producers, Illinois Pork Council, Ducks Unlimited, Livestock Growers Co-op, and Buffalo Hart Presbyterian Church. Charles became a member of the Sangamon County Farmer Hall of Fame in 2021.
Charles was a pilot and member of the Slip & Skid club. He loved flying the plane that he owned for over 30 years. He was a lifelong learner, loved to read and travel, taking several trips throughout the U.S, Canada, and internationally.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to the Vonderleith Living Center Foundation.
Private services for Charles will be held at a later date.
Mott & Henning Funeral Home is assisting the family. On-line condolences can be share at www.mottandhenning.com

11/05/2025

Helen Bennett, age 92, of Springfield, passed away on Tuesday, November 4, 2025 at Springfield Memorial Hospital.

Mourning her passing are her son, Gene (wife Betty) Bennett; two grandchildren, Cory and Christy; three great-grandchildren, Fiona & Nathan & Owen; and several nieces and nephews.

Helen was born October 26, 1933, in Mason City, Illinois, the daughter of Harvey and Eleanor (Stovall) Mangold.

She married Walter Bennett on September 7, 1951 at the Third Presbyterian Parsonage in Springfield by Rev. Hildebrand.

Helen graduated from Lanphier High School in Springfield. She was a member of the Elm Street Christian Church in Springfield.

Cremation rites will be accorded. Graveside services will be held on Monday, November 10, 2025 at 11:00 AM, at Camp Butler National Cemetery in Springfield, Illinois.

Mott & Henning Funeral Home is assisting the family. On-line condolences can be shared at www.mottandhenning.com.

10/30/2025

Elmer E. Brannan (Gene) 82, of Greenview, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his loving family on Wednesday, October 29, 2025.

Gene was born on October 24, 1943, in Carrollton, Illinois, the son of Elmer and Hattie (Meeks) Brannan. He married Judy Bonnett on May 7,1978 and she survives.

He enlisted in the Army in 1962. He was part of the original group of 5th Special Forces in the 281st Assault Helicopter Company. He marched at the President Kenndey funeral procession. He served in Vietnam 66-67. He was a proud Vietnam Veteran.

Gene was an avid Johnny Cash fan and often sang his songs at Karaoke and around the house. He loved his family with all his heart. He lived for his kids and grandchildren.
Gene loved summertime going on fishing trips with his brothers on the river.
After his time in the army he worked multiple jobs, Fiat Allis – Arc Construction – Aqualand Pools and his was owner-operator of Winstons Bakery and Ice Cream at White Oak Mall. He worked at US Electric for 20 years before his 21 years of battling cancer! From agent orange exposure.

Survivors include his wife Judy Brannan, his daughters Rena Brannan (wife Sophie Ward) of London, Tricia Brannan (husband Jonathan Miller) of Virgina, Lexy Baird-Brannan of Hannibal, Mo; his sons Dennis Brannan (wife Mary) of Connecticut, David Brannan (wife Joey) of Mason City, Craig Brannan (wife, Harli) of Greenview, grandchildren; Gianni, Nik, Jason Brannan of Connecticut. His granddaughters he raised Samantha and Victoria Brannan of Greenview, Raelyn Schafer, Brecklynn Brannan and Griffin Brannan of San Jose, Abigail Hoefferle and Cassius Ferati of Greenview, Taylor Benson & Chase Benson of Pekin, IL, Charlie Brannan of Mason City; brothers David Brannan of Tennessee, Ron Brannan of Granite City; sisters Carmen Lawson of Hillview and Paula Inman of Roodhouse and lots of nieces and nephews.

He is preceded in death by his parents, and a brother Bob Brannan and sister-in-law Dru, two infant sons, Charles and Jason Brannan.

Visitation for Gene will be held on Saturday, November 8th, 2025 from 10 AM – 12 PM with services immediately following at 12 PM at Mott & Henning Funeral Home.

Memorial contributions can be made for the family to help pay for funeral costs.

Mott & Henning Funeral Home is assisting the family. On-line condolences can be shared at www.mottandhenning.com.

10/23/2025

Marlene Propst, age 86, of Greenview, passed away peacefully on Thursday, October 23, 2025, at Springfield Suites in Springfield, IL.

Marlene was born on August 15, 1939 in Huron, SD, the daughter of Byrul and Opal (Gorham) Van Pelt.

She married Keith Propst on September 3, 1959, in Springfield, IL and moved to Chicago. Upon retirement they moved to Greenview. He preceded her in death in 2001.

Mourning her passing are her daughter, Debbie (husband Mark) Aiken; her son, Rick Propst; three grandchildren, Samantha (Jackie) Roberts, Lacie Terrell, and Katelyne Randle; and four great-grandchildren, Mackenzie, Addison, Mya, and Jett.

She is also preceded her in death by her parents, sister, Merna Rittenhouse; and brother, Terry Van Pelt.

She was a homemaker. Marlene was a wonderful mother, grandmother, great-grandmother.

She was famous for her deviled eggs that she brought to family gatherings.

Marlene will be greatly missed.

Cremation rites will be accorded. Graveside services for Marlene will be held on Thursday, October 30, 2025 at 10:00 AM at Elmwood Cemetery in Greenview.

Memorial contributions can be made to American Cancer Society or St. Jude Children’s Hospital.

Mott & Henning Funeral Home is assisting the family. On-line condolences can be shared at www.mottandhenning.com.

10/21/2025

Carolyn Bryant, age 82, of Athens, passed away on October 19, 2025, in Florida.
Carolyn was born on April 21, 1943, in Jefferson County, Illinois, near Darville, the daughter of Melvin and Mildred (Milner) Hamlin.
She married William Bryant on August 20, 1961, at the Athens Christian Church. He preceded her in death on August 2, 2016.
Mourning her passing are her children, William “Bill” Allen (wife Debbie), Marla Sue Lewis (partner Jim), and Cathy Bryant; two grandchildren, Alexander Bryant and Clayton Lewis; and two brothers, Gary Hamlin and Wendell (wife Diana) Hamlin.
She was also preceded in death by her parents and one brother, Kenneth Hamlin.
Carolyn graduated from Athens High School in 1961. She was a lifelong member of Athens Christian Church and an avid bowler for many years. Carolyn dearly loved dogs and was known for her kind and gentle spirit.
She worked at Franklin Life Insurance Company in Springfield and later owned and operated a group daycare. Her love for children led her to become a school bus driver for the Athens School District, a position she held with pride and dedication since 1970.
Visitation will be held on Thursday, October 30, 2025, from 4:00 to 7:00 PM at Mott & Henning Funeral Home in Athens. Funeral services will be held at 10:00 AM on Friday, October 31, 2025, also at the funeral home. Burial will follow at Joel Hall Cemetery in Athens.
Mott & Henning Funeral Home is assisting the family. Online condolences can be shared at www.mottandhenning.com.

10/15/2025

Merritt Roger Foulk, age 89, of Athens, passed on Tuesday, October 14, 2025.

He was born May 17, 1936 in Banner, Illinois, the son of Chester and Rosetta (Hadsell) Foulk.

Merritt married Sandra “Sandy” A. Behnke on July 4, 1959.

Mourning his passing are his wife, Sandy; children, Kenny (wife Marianne) Foulk and Dawn (husband Phil) Eck; five grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; one brother, Allen Foulk; several nieces, nephews and cousins.

He is preceded in death by his parents; two brothers, Bill Foulk and David Foulk; and great-granddaughter, Jade E. Foulk.

Merritt retired from Ameritech (Illinois Bell).

He was a member of the Masonic Lodge #762 and the Ansar Shrine, where he served with the Clown Unit.

Merritt loved fishing, hunting, RVing, and mushroom hunting.

Visitation for Merritt will be held on Friday, October 17, 2025 from 10:00 AM until time of funeral services at 11:00 AM at Mott & Henning Funeral Home in Athens. Burial will be held at Joel Hall Cemetery in section XI, in lot 4 in Athens immediately after the services.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to the Shriner’s Children Hospital or St. Jude Children’s Hospital.

Mott & Henning Funeral Home is assisting the family. On-line condolences can be shared at www.mottandhenning.com.

10/14/2025

Tracey Fawns, age 56, of Williamsville, passed away on Saturday, October 11, 2025 at Springfield Memorial Hospital in Springfield, IL.

Tracey was born on January 10, 1969 in Springfield, Illinois, the daughter of Wilbur, Jr. and Sharon Fawns.

She married Mark Tisckos on November 7th, 1992 and they became a family on January 30th, 2009.

Mourning her passing are her husband, Mark; daughter, Stephanie Tisckos; mother, Sharon; brother, Brent (Kathleen) Fawns; and beloved dogs, Lilly and Ella.

Tracey is preceded in death by her father, Wilbur, Jr. Fawns; and uncles, George Fawns and Bill Fawns.

She graduated from Williamsville High School in 1987 and later attended Lincoln Land Community College.

Tracey worked as Director of Childcare at Illinois Department of Revenue at Williard Ice Building and later worked as secretary and treasurer for the Williamsville United Methodist Church. She also served as treasurer for Williamsville Music Boosters.

Her and Mark’s love language was arguing.

Tracey was an organ donor and her eyes will help others continue to see the world

Cremation rites will be accorded. Burial will be held at Walnut Hill Cemetery near Williamsville.

Memorial contributions can be made to St. Jude Children’s Hospital and Mini O’beirne Crisis Nursery.

Mott & Henning Funeral Home is assisting the family. On-line condolences can be shared at

Mott and Henning Funeral Home provides complete funeral services in Athens, IL. Call us today for pre-planning or custom planning options.

10/01/2025

Shirley E. Black, nee Davidsmeier, age 88, died peacefully in her home in Williamsville, IL, Monday, Sept. 29, 2025.

She was born May 7, 1937 in Mechanicsburg, IL, to William and Alice Fern Davidsmeier.

She moved with her family to Springfield, IL, at a young age and attended Springfield local schools.

On August 25, 1954, Shirley married Harvey Robert "Bob" Black and spent two years in Norfolk, VA, while Bob was in the Navy. The couple then moved back to Williamsville and raised four children - Sherrie, Diane (Carroll) Hays, Rick (Viki), and Jackie (Chuck) Karr.

Shirley joined the Order of the Eastern Star in 1959 and was recently recognized as a 65 year member. She was a homemaker and an employee at Ford Printing. She enjoyed reading, playing cards, and traveling with Bob and friends. An annual highlight was spending a week taking all of the grandchildren to the Illinois State Fair. She was always willing and available to help with grandchildren and great-grandchildren, making a point to spoil them as much as possible.

Shirley was preceded in death by her parents, brothers Orville, Wilbur, Russell, and Donald, and sister Doris "Midgie" Waters as well as several nieces and nephews.

She is survived by her husband, Bob, sister Barbara (James) Thomas, and brothers Willis (Pat) and Kenneth (Shari) Davidsmeier, her four children, seven grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews.

Visitation will be from 10:00 AM until 12:00 PM on Saturday, October 4, 2025, followed by a service at 12:00 PM at Mott & Henning Funeral Home in Athens, IL. Graveside service and burial will be at Walnut Hill Cemetery in Williamsville, IL.

Mott & Henning Funeral Home is assisting the family. On-line condolences can be shared at www.mottandhenning.com.

09/30/2025

David Tobias, age 66, of Petersburg, Illinois, passed away peacefully on Friday, September 26, 2025, at Sunny Acres Nursing Home.
He was born on December 7, 1958, in Springfield, Illinois, the son of Delmar and Diamonda (Pulizos) Tobias.
David was united in marriage to Melinda “Linda” Vance, who preceded him in death on October 9, 2010.
He is lovingly remembered by his stepdaughters, Kitty Wilson and Katy Wilson; his children, Tara Tobias and David “Davey” Tobias, Jr.; and his grandson, Ryder Betz.
In addition to his wife and parents, David was preceded in death by his sister and brother-in-law, Donna and Joe Fleischli, as well as several aunts and uncles.
A 1976 graduate of Athens High School, David went on to work for the Menard County Cemetery Maintenance District for several years. He was known for his mechanical abilities and passion for motorcycles, vehicle repair, and trail riding. He also had a deep appreciation for classic rock music and vintage cars.
In accordance with his wishes, David generously donated his body for medical research. A private burial of cremated remains will take place at Indian Point Cemetery near Athens at a later date.
Mott & Henning Funeral Home is assisting the family. Online condolences may be shared at www.mottandhenning.com.