Cumerford-Clary Funeral Home

12/24/2025

This Christmas season, we pause with gratitude for our community and the trust you place in us. As families gather, we are reminded that love, memories, and connection endure far beyond the holidays.

For those who are grieving, we hold you close in our hearts and hope you are able to find moments of peace, comfort, and gentle remembrance during this season.

Wishing you and your loved ones a joyful Christmas filled with peace, warmth, and hope . 🎄✨

12/17/2025

Sorting through a loved one’s possessions after their death can be overwhelming. One way to make the task easier is to invite close friends or family members to help you. While you may be tempted to tackle the task on your own, friends can provide emotional support and encouragement.

Who’s your support system? Give them a shoutout in the comments below.

12/16/2025

Juanita F. Lukehart, 93, of Peoria, IL passed away on Sunday, December 14, 2025 at Country Comfort Retirement Home in Elmwood, IL. She was born to Claude and Opal (Carpenter) Fletcher on February 05, 1932 in Marshfield, Missouri.

She moved to Peoria in 1966 approximately. Juanita had many lo...

View Juanita Fern Lukehart's obituary, contribute to their memorial, see their funeral service details, and more.

12/15/2025

Robert Keith Middleton “Bob” died peacefully in hospice care on December 14, 2025 in Peoria, Illinois with family by his side. He was born on September 5, 1942, to Keith and Edna Middleton at Mennonite Hospital in Bloomington, Illinois. He was preceded in death by his parents, his beloved wife of 48...

View Robert K. Middleton's obituary, contribute to their memorial, see their funeral service details, and more.

12/10/2025

Music has a unique ability to speak when words fall short. During a funeral, it can comfort, honor, and connect us—evoking memories, expressing love, and creating a sense of peace.

Whether it's a favorite hymn, a touching instrumental, or a song that brings back shared moments, the right music can help celebrate a life in a deeply meaningful way.

At Cumerford-Clary Funeral Home, we understand how powerful music can be in the healing process. We're here to help you choose selections that reflect your loved one’s spirit and story.

What song reminds you most of someone you’ve lost? Feel free to share below.

12/03/2025

Grief is a deeply personal journey, and while everyone experiences it differently, the five stages of grief—Denial, Anger, Bargaining, Depression, and Acceptance—offer a helpful framework for understanding the emotions that follow loss.

According to Harvard Health Publishing, these stages can help individuals recognize and process their feelings:

-Denial: A natural defense mechanism that helps cushion the immediate shock.
-Anger: A response to the pain, often directed at circumstances, others, or even ourselves.
-Bargaining: The mind's way of trying to regain control—often filled with "what if" thoughts.
-Depression: A deep sadness as the reality of the loss sets in.
-Acceptance: Not about “getting over it,” but learning to live with the loss and move forward.

It’s important to note that these stages are not linear—everyone grieves differently, and that’s okay.

If you or someone you know is experiencing grief, know that support is available. You're not alone.

Read more from Harvard Health Publishing: https://www.health.harvard.edu/mind-and-mood/5-stages-of-grief-coping-with-the-loss-of-a-loved-one?fbclid=IwY2xjawOS7p9leHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETFPWHN6UkxKSkd6MUxJSU1Bc3J0YwZhcHBfaWQQMjIyMDM5MTc4ODIwMDg5MgABHsKH8mJaUzHS7w8wYDMV1Ftd5Tc_33KCaorJktZXnJ01oQGZz5SawpKAezy7_aem_4BHUot_eD0tnPPW9B-dC9A&brid=ZnOHYNu0oX_tADfGVwF95g

11/27/2025

Happy Thanksgiving from all of us at Cumerford-Clary Funeral Home! Wishing everyone a peaceful and joyful Thanksgiving surrounded by those who matter most. 🍁🦃

11/26/2025

Dorothy Vea Holly, 97, of Peoria, IL, passed away peacefully on Friday, November 21, 2025, at Manor Court of Peoria. She was born in Clinton, KY, on August 13, 1928, to Thomas and Vea (Williams) Coklow. She married James Henry Holly in East St. Louis.

A funeral service will be held at Grace...

View Dorothy V. Holly's obituary, contribute to their memorial, see their funeral service details, and more.

11/18/2025

11/11/2025

This Veterans Day, we pause to remember and give thanks to all who have worn our nation’s uniform. Your strength, sacrifice, and service inspire us every day. We are deeply grateful.🇺🇸

11/05/2025

What is Funeral Etiquette? Attending a funeral is a moment to honor a loved one and support their family. If you're unsure about the customs, here are some helpful tips:

1. Respect the Atmosphere: Keep voices low, silence your phone, and be mindful of the solemn environment.

2. Arrive on Time: Try to be early or on time to avoid disruptions.

3. Offer Condolences: A simple, heartfelt message like "I'm sorry for your loss" can mean a lot.

4. Dress Appropriately – Wear conservative and respectful attire, typically in dark or neutral colors unless otherwise specified.

5. Give Space to Close Family – Allow grieving family members their privacy and avoid overwhelming them.

6. Offer Support Beyond the Service – A simple call, meal, or gesture after the funeral can mean a lot to the grieving family.

10/31/2025

👻 Happy Halloween from all of us at Cumerford-Clary Funeral Home! Wishing everyone a safe and fun evening filled with sweet treats, laughter, and maybe a friendly scare or two. 🎃