Robert "Sarge" Duane Hayes, Sr., age 66, of Vergennes, passed away Sunday, April 19, 2026 at his home, surrounded by his loving family.
He was born Monday, August 10, 1959 in Mt Vernon, Illinois, a son of Margaret Fern (Cook) and Fred Ruben Hayes, Sr. He married the love of his life, Kimberly Kay Higgerson in Nashville, Illinois on December 06, 1996. Together, they shared more than twenty-nine years of marriage and precious memories.
Robert, a dedicated patriot and family man, left a lasting impact on all who knew him. A 20-year proud United States Air Force veteran and crew chief, he retired as a Tech Sergeant, serving with distinction in Desert Storm and Desert Shield, and training with Special Ops.
Beyond his military service, Robert's passions were plentiful. He enjoyed running his beagles and served as the field trial secretary at King City Beagle Club. His mechanical skills made him a master boat mechanic, and he loved getting his hands dirty with antique cars and racing with his grandson.
But family was Robert's true joy. He cherished time with his grandchildren, often donning a Santa suit to spread joy, continuing the legacy of his wife's grandfather. His quiet strength and kindness made him a beloved fixture in their lives. Robert had a way of making everyone feel seen and heard, and his quiet thoughtfulness touched countless lives.
A hunter, fisher, and outdoorsman, Robert lived life to the fullest. He was a constant presence in his family's lives, always ready to lend a hand or offer a listening ear, or provide a warm smile. His sharp sarcastic humor could bring laughter to even the toughest moments, but it was his compassion, empathy, and generosity that truly defined him.
Robert's love and legacy will continue to inspire and guide all that knew and loved him.
He is survived by his wife- Kimberly Kay (Higgerson) Hayes of Vergennes; four children- Michelle (William) Schemonia of Vergennes, Robert "Bobby" (Beth) Hayes, Jr. of Sandstone, Minnesota, Chad Pyron of Tamaroa, and Chelsey (Chris) Harris of Du Quoin; twelve grandchildren- Andrew (Melissa), Joseph (Leigha), Jacob, Peyton, Jace, Aspen, Ayla, Kathleen, Alethea, Xavier, Neal (Maggie), and Erik (Kaitlin); seven great-grandchildren- Weston, Maggie, Addie, Kennedy, Zeke, Jack, and George; brother- Fred (Vicki) Hayes, Jr.; sister- Sue (Dan) Lovin; father-in-law- Harry (Martha) Higgerson; mother-in-law- Relda Marlow; sister-in-law- Kandy (Matt) Collins; several nieces, nephews, and a host of extended family members and cherished friends.
He is preceded in death by parents, one brother- Mike Hayes, and father-in-law- Floyd Bruno.
There will be a time of visitation on Friday, April 24, 2026, 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM at Maxton-Rosado Funeral Home, located at 11 South Hickory Street in Du Quoin.
Funeral services will be held Saturday, April 25, 2026, 10:00 AM at Maxton-Rosado Funeral Home in Du Quoin with Austin Marlow officiating. Military honors will be rendered by the Du Quoin VFW Post 513, the Du Quoin American Legion Post 647, and the United States Air Force military funeral detail teams.
Memorial contributions may be directed to SIH Cancer Center or Hospice of Southern Illinois.
Maxton-Rosado Funeral Home in Du Quoin is honored to serve the family. To leave an online condolence, please visit the link below or call 618-542-2020 for more information.
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04/19/2026
Paul William Miller, age 76, of Du Quoin, passed away unexpectedly on Friday, April 17, 2026, at Carbondale Memorial Hospital.
A service for family, friends and community will be held on Sunday, April 26 at 2:00 p.m. at St. John's United Church of Christ in Du Quoin.
Memorial contributions may be directed to the Du Quoin Education Foundation.
Maxton-Rosado Funeral Home in Du Quoin is honored to serve the family. Please click the link below to leave an online condolence, or call 618-542-2020 for more information.
Paul's full obituary tribute may be ready by clicking here:
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04/18/2026
Rachel Louise Penson-Zettler, age 58, of Du Quoin, passed away unexpectedly on Thursday, April 16, 2026 after a tragic accident at her home.
She was born Sunday, January 21, 1968 in Du Quoin, Illinois, a daughter of James "Jim" and Lydia Louise (Jones) Penson. She married Roger Zettler at the Hurst Community Center on October 07, 2023. He survives.
Rachel, a vibrant spirit with a heart full of love, left too soon. She was a unique blend of sass and sweetness, always keeping those around her on their toes. Rachel was a force of nature who lived life on her own clock-usually about fifteen minutes behind everyone else's. She leaves behind a legacy of laughter, sharp wit, and a personality that could light up any room.
A woman of simple joys and deep devotions, Rachel was famously fueled by two things: a good cup of coffee and an unwavering love for her family. Whether it was a morning run to Scooters or Penny Perks, she cherished her caffeine. She even looked forward to the coffee her husband brought her every day-though, in true Rachel fashion, she never missed an opportunity to complain about exactly how he made it or how slow he brought it.
Her quick wit and "awesome personality" were best displayed during intense games of Scattergories or while she expertly navigated a crossword puzzle. She had a beautiful, poetic soul and spent years capturing the world through her writing. When she wasn't writing, she was likely rolling her eyes or shaking her head at someone's antics-her two most famous (and beloved) trademarks. Rachel's heart was happiest when it was full. She adored her family, her dogs, and her cats, and she was widely considered the "best sister ever." She loved the rhythm of life-listening to music, dancing, and settling in for her favorite soap operas or a high-stakes police and fire drama.
Her culinary tastes were classic and spirited. She never met a plate of Mexican food she didn't like-especially from Don Tequillas-and she maintained a lifelong, family-sanctioned devotion to Southern sweet tea.
Rachel was sweet, kind, and incredibly loving, but she was also a straight-shooter. She took great joy in "picking on" her husband and possessed a formidable "bad side" that no one wanted to cross. She lived with a constant "fear of missing out," always wanting to be in the center of the action. If she ever felt overlooked, her signature phrase was never far behind: "Am I chopped liver?" To Rachel, no one was ever "chopped liver." She made everyone feel seen, challenged, and loved. She will be deeply missed by her family, her friends, and everyone who knew that the best things in life are always worth waiting for-even if she made you wait a little longer than planned.
She is survived by her husband, Roger Zettler of Zeigler; father and step-mother- Jim and Viola Penson of Du Quoin; son- Troy Brown of Du Quoin; daughter- Alexis (Elijah) Colbert of Du Quoin; step-daughter- Catherine Zettler of Hawaii; three grandchildren- Elsei Ambrocio, Bennie Ambrocio, and Legend Delmore; three step-grandchildren- Haleyann Zettler, Emily Zettler, Hannah Zettler; brother- Jimmy Penson in Du Quoin; sister- Dorcas Penson of Du Quoin; step-siblings- Jeanette Shepard and Sherry Pyle; aunt- Marsha McKinnies of Du Quoin; uncle- Carl J. Jones of Du Quoin; aunt- Debbie Hariss of Du Quoin; aunt- Janice Siefert of Du Quoin; aunt- June Caraway of Murphysboro; aunt- Lisa Dewar of Du Quoin; aunt- Wilma Lemons of Arkansas; uncle- Eddie Sharp of Arkansas; several nieces, nephews, cousins and a host of extended family members and friends who adored her.
She is preceded in death by her mother, step-sister- Melissa Clinton, and seven aunts and uncles.
A time of visitation will be held on Tuesday, April 21, 2026, 11:00 AM - 1:00 PM at Maxton-Rosado Funeral Home, located at 11 S. Hickory Street in Du Quoin.
Funeral services will begin at 1:00 PM on Tuesday, April 21, 2026 at Maxton-Rosado Funeral Home with Rev. Dan McKinnies officiating.
Burial will follow at Sunset Memorial Park in Du Quoin.
The family requests memorial donations be made to Rachel's funeral care fund at Maxton-Rosado Funeral Home, to help the family with Rachel's unexpected final expenses. To make an online donation, click the donation tab on Rachel's obituary page. All payments will go directly to the funeral home to help the family in their time of such loss.
Envelopes will also be available and accepted at Maxton-Rosado Funeral Home; 11 S. Hickory Street; Du Quoin, IL 62832.
Maxton-Rosado Funeral Home in Du Quoin is honored to have been called to serve the family. For more information, or to leave an online condolence for the family, please visit www.maxtonrosado.com or call 618-542-2020 for more information.
Celebrate the life of Rachel Penson-Zettler and join others in sharing memories, stories, and condolences.
04/18/2026
April is National Donate Life Month (NDLM), and Mid-America Transplant is actively encouraging the community to register as organ, eye, and tissue donors to support the 100,000+ people awaiting transplants. Throughout April 2026, events include spirit weeks, flag raisings, and Blue & Green Day to honor donors, families, and recipients.
Our sister location, Johnson-Hughes Funeral Home, in Herrin, had the honor of hosting the "Raise the Flag" Ceremony for Mid-America Transplant Services today. We are so proud of our team for being so involved in things that matter most!
04/16/2026
Expected with joy and cherished from the very beginning, Revelin Hope Bunton, was born silently into the arms of her parents on Tuesday, March 31, 2026 at Carbondale Memorial Hospital. Though she never took a breath on this earth, she was deeply known and loved for every moment of her journey.
She leaves behind a family whose hearts were already full of plans for her: her mommy and daddy- Cortney Marie Miller and Michael Carson Bunton of Energy, six brothers and sisters- Autumn, Madyson, Draven, Dakota, Carliegh, and Camilla; grandmothers- Wendy and Ellen; and aunt- Amber.
She was preceded in death by her grandfathers- Samuel Lee Miller and Robert D. Bunton.
Some lives are like a shooting star-brief, luminous, and never to be forgotten. Revelin Hope will forever be our littlest angel, held in our hearts until we can hold her in heaven.
Private graveside services were held at Sunset Memorial Park with Rev. Joe Wagner officiating.
"There is no foot too small that it cannot leave an imprint on this world."
Celebrate the life of Revelin Bunton and join others in sharing memories, stories, and condolences.
04/02/2026
📌𝕆𝔽𝔽𝕀ℂ𝔼 ℂ𝕃𝕆𝕊𝕌ℝ𝔼
Our offices will be CLOSED on Friday, April 3, 2026, in observance of Good Friday and will reopen Monday, April 6, 2026. We are available by phone anytime at 618-542-2020.
We wish your family a beautiful Easter weekend.
03/28/2026
When you visit our funeral homes, you are sure to see some young faces! We are so proud and have to brag! In an industry defined by "old school" traditions and deep-rooted rituals, it isn’t always easy for a leader to step back and relinquish roles. We’ve done things a certain way for a long time—but our "funeral family" is evolving in the best possible way.
I am beyond proud of our next-generation leaders: Amanda, Kaitlin, Kirstin, Parker, and Macie. While I’m here to guide them, the truth is, they are teaching me just as much every day. Their fresh energy and perspective are exactly what our future needs.
Of course, this well-rounded team wouldn’t be complete without Keith, our Senior Team Lead. His experience is the anchor that allows this group to soar. The future is more than bright—it’s in the most capable hands imaginable. 🕊️✨
I’m realizing the secret to a great team isn't just about passing the torch—it’s about being willing to let them show you a new way to carry it. Legacy isn’t just about what we leave behind; it’s about what we pour into others. I am profoundly grateful to be teaching the values Larry Hughes taught me to our incredible young team. But mostly, I’m thankful for the humility to listen—because as much as I am their mentor, they are becoming mine.
03/27/2026
Saturday, April 4th
FREE Easter Egg Hunt at the Fairgrounds
the head to the Du Quoin Elks Lodge 884 for free photos with the Easter Bunny and a pancake breakfast!
SHARE THIS GREAT AFFORDABLE FAMILY EVENT FOR ALL TO ENJOY!!
FREE PICTURES WITH THE EASTER BUNNY at the Du Quoin Elks Lodge!
Breakfast with the BUNNY--we just ask for a donation to the Elks Lodge!
Saturday, April 4th starting at 10am (following the Free
Easter Egg Hunt at the fairgrounds!)
Take advantage of this affordable way to create some great memories and have a wonderful breakfast for the entire family!
03/17/2026
We are thrilled to officially introduce Kaitlin Fairchild to the Maxton-Rosado and Johnson-Hughes Funeral Homes family!
Kaitlin joins us as a licensed Funeral Director and Embalmer. She graduated summa cm laude from the Southern Illinois University Mortuary Science program in 2024. She brings a wealth of specialized knowledge to our homes, including a certification in Green Funeral Service from the Green Burial Council and a minor in American Sign Language. 🤟
Kaitlin is deeply passionate about serving our communities with care, grace, and a comforting smile. When she’s not assisting families, she’s likely tending to her garden or lost in a good book.
Next week, week two!, Kaitlin will already begin working toward becoming a licensed preneed specialist to offer even more support to our communities. When you see her, be sure to say hi! (She’ll likely be the one with a big smile and a story to tell!) 📚🌱
Help us give Kaitlin a warm Southern Illinois welcome in the comments below! 👇
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The community of Du Quoin and surrounding Perry County areas now have a new option to help assist during the delicate process of a loved one’s death and final arrangements.
The historical Maxton Funeral Home, previously owned and operated under the late Frank Maxton, will reopen fully in the summer of 2020 as the Maxton-Rosado Funeral Home and Event Center in the beautiful downtown district of Du Quoin, Illinois. The funeral home, located at 11 South Hickory Street in Du Quoin, is now proudly being re-opened by the new owners, William and Vonda Rosado.
William was born and raised in the Du Quoin area, having attended the Sacred Heart Catholic School and graduating from the Elverado High School. With a Bachelors Degree in Business Management from Southern Illinois University, William serves as the Executive Manager of the funeral home and event center. He is also a licensed pre-need specialist, able to assist families with any pre-planning process. Vonda is a 1991 graduate of Herrin High School and a 1994 graduate of the Southern Illinois University Mortuary Science Program. She has been a licensed funeral director and embalmer for more than twenty-six years. Vonda is also a licensed pre-need specialist.
Not only will the beautiful home serve as a funeral home, the 5000 square foot home will also host events such as family reunions, wedding receptions, board meetings, community functions, intimate gathering rooms, and more.
"We are more than a funeral home, we are now truly a community steward and are able to give back to the city. We felt the need to offer additional event services. This facility will enable us to provide services and events like no other in the surrounding communities. We envision having continuous programs for families, including movie nights, children's activities, and socials. We envision the center as a place for all people from all walks of life to enjoy the facility for whatever purpose they intend.
The Maxton-Rosado Funeral Home will offer affordable services and cater to all funeral needs including prearranging of services, cremations, celebrations of life, and full traditional funeral ceremonies. The Rosado’s wanted to reopen the funeral home as they felt a strong need in the community for an affordable but high-quality funeral home. “I think we really encompass the families that we work with and engage with them on a more compassionate level. We realize our clients come from a wide variety of backgrounds and circumstances. We strive to serve families equally, regardless of what their financial situation is. That's something that my mentors, Larry and Diane Hughes, always prided themselves on — what they have instilled in me. To be able to help any family that comes through our door."
It is a great honor to have the opportunity to carry on where Mr. Maxton left off. He was a staple in the community of Du Quoin, and his legacy deserves to be remembered. Frank was named Rotarian of the year in 2000, Du Quoin's Citizen of the year in 2005, and upon his retirement, was awarded Du Quoin's highest honor by former Mayor John Rednour when he declared Oct. 27, 2012, as Frank Maxton Appreciation Day. Francis McCara “Frank” Maxton passed away on September 21, 2014 at the age of 80.
"We have a tremendous passion for helping people. When you lose a loved one, it’s the most emotionally draining experience you could ever go though. To help people in that time of their life is very rewarding. We are beyond thankful to be able to share this opportunity with the Du Quoin community and include our family in this beautiful journey.” William and Vonda have four children- Preston, Kamen, Parker, and Keaton; one grandson- Braxton; parents- Jesus and Marian Rosado of Elkville, and Gloria and the late Robert E. Robison of Energy. Serving our community as a family is a privilege we do not take lightly.
Now booking events of any kind and open by appointment for funeral pre-planning.
Maxton-Rosado Funeral Home and Event Center can be reached at 618-542-2020. Please visit us on Facebook or our website at www.maxtonrosado.com
