Pitchford Funeral Home

03/07/2026

Moro:

J. Jeffrey Greer, 75, went to meet Jesus at 2:19 p.m. on Thursday, March 5, 2026, at his residence. He was born on September 17, 1950, in East St. Louis, Illinois, the son of the late Billy H. Greer and Shirley Roberts Pauley.

He married the former Carolyn Sue Miser on May 15, 1970, in Wood River, and she preceded him in death on September 17, 2004. He later married the former Linda Madison on January 21, 2006, and she preceded him in death on June 21, 2008.

Survivors include a daughter, Stephanie Palmer; a son and daughter-in-law, Chris and Kellie Greer; three grandchildren, Brendan Palmer and his wife Tamara, Sydnie Palmer, and Christian Greer; two great-grandchildren, John and Aurora; a sister and brother-in-law, Connie and Jim Hickerson; a brother and sister-in-law, Darrin and Traci McCall; along with many nieces, nephews, and other extended family and dear friends.

Jeff worked as a pipefitter for forty years at the refinery and was known for his strong work ethic and dedication to providing for his family. He attended Emmanuel Free Methodist Church in Alton, where his faith was an important part of his life.

Jeff had a servant’s heart and generously volunteered his time at the Community Hope Center, where he enjoyed helping others and giving back to the community. He loved spending time outdoors, especially crappie fishing at the Lake of the Ozarks, one of his favorite places. He also had a passion for taking long rides on his Harley, enjoying the open road and the freedom it brought.

More than anything, Jeff treasured time with his family. Known lovingly by many as “Pop,” he especially loved being with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, creating memories with them and sharing stories, laughter, and encouragement.

Above all else, Jeff loved Jesus and lived his life with a deep and abiding faith that guided how he loved and served others.

In addition to his parents and wives, Jeff was preceded in death by a great-granddaughter, Adaline Eve; a sister, Rebecca Tanner; a brother, Chris Greer; and a niece, Meghan Hickerson.

In celebration of his life, visitation will be from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Tuesday, March 10, 2026, at Pitchford Funeral Home in Wood River. Funeral services will be held at 10 a.m. on Wednesday, March 11, 2026, at Emmanuel Free Methodist Church in Alton. Pastor Chris Smith and Rev. Mark Scandrett will officiate. Private family burial will follow at Woodland Hill Cemetery in East Alton.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to the Community Hope Center and will be accepted at the funeral home.

Jeff will be remembered for his unwavering faith, his love for his family, and the kindness and generosity he shared with everyone he met.

Online guestbook available at www.pitchfordfuneralhome.com.

03/04/2026

Bethalto:

Doug Henline, 64, passed away at 4:19am on Tuesday, January 27, 2026, at St. Louis University Hospital. He was born on October 20, 1961, in Sedgwick, Kansas, the son of the late Billy Eugene and Cleta Mae (Burns) Henline. He married the former Michelle Renae Sitzes on February 4, 2009, in Wood River, IL, and she survives. Other survivors include two daughters and a son in law: Danae Rogers of Chesapeake, Virginia, Taylor and Nick Calcara of Edwardsville, a son: Christopher Hamby of Bethalto, seven grandchildren: Kaden, Renna, Sevanna, Jace, Oliver, Riley, Olivia, three sisters and two brothers in law: Margaret and John Meixel of Las Vegas, Nevada, Deborah Gile of Glenwood, Washington, Susan and Don Smith of Bellevue, Washington, many nieces, nephews, and other extended family and friends.

Doug was employed as a safety manager for Utilitra prior to his retirement. He was a member of the VFW, loved watching football, playing golf and spending time with his grandkids. Doug served in the United States Navy for twenty – four years and loved the time he spent serving his county.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a brother: Bill Henline.

A celebration of Doug’s life will be from 12pm to 4pm on Saturday, March 7, 2026, at Julia's Banquet Center in East Alton. In accordance with Doug’s wishes, his ashes will be spread at sea.

Memorials are suggested to the 5A’s.

03/04/2026

Bethalto:

Dot Kelly, 69, passed away at 8:50am on Monday, March 2, 2026, at her residence. She was born on March 2, 1957, Sacramento, California, the daughter of the late Donald and Dorothy (Hastings) Blake. She married Rick Kelly on March 15, 1974, in Alton, and he survives. Other survivors include a daughter and son in law: Christie and Bobby Rickman of Godfrey, a son and daughter in law: Craig and Gini Kelly of East Alton, four grandchildren: Gwendolyn, Aubrey, Kyle, Brett, two sisters and a brother in law: Jeannie and Marty Porter of Shiloh, Diana Jumper of Rosewood Heights, her sister in law: Peggy Wonnacott of Alton, her doggies: Kody, Riley, many nieces, nephews, and other extended family and friends.

A homemaker, Dot lived for her kids and her grandkids. She was a proud Nana. She was very active in the Relay For Life Riverbend – Team Imagine. Dot loved camping and going on RV trips with her family. She was a member of Calvary Baptist Church in Alton and Ivy Heights Church of God in Wood River.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by a son: Chad Dayle Kelly and a sister: Donna.

In accordance with her wishes, cremation rites will be accorded. Private services will be held. Inurnment will be at a later date at Rose Lawn Memory Gardens in Bethalto.

Online guestbook available at www.pitchfordfuneralhome.com.

Pitchford Funeral Home in Wood River is in charge of cremation arrangements.

03/02/2026

Alton:

Tina Gegg, 57, passed away at 11:47pm on Friday, February 27, 2026, at OSF St. Anthony’s Hospital in Alton. She was born on December 1, 1968, in Wood River, the daughter of the late James and Barbara (Williams) Menzie. She married Thomas Gegg, Sr. on December 5, 1988, in St. Ann, Missouri, and he survives. Other survivors include a daughter: Amanda (David Schultz) Gegg of Godfrey, two sons: Thomas Gegg and his wife: Keisha of Alton, Nicholas (Sierra Lynch) Gegg of Cottage Hills, eleven grandchildren: Thomas, Zoey, Aleigha, Bryson, Braelynn, Braxton, Tyson, Zaedyn, Analyse, Roman, Josiah, an expectant grandchild, a brother and sister in law: James and Marie Y. Menzie of Phoenix, Arizona, and two beloved sister in laws.

Tina was a stay at home mama. She loved dirt track racing and spending time with her family, especially her grandchildren.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by a brother: Brandon.

In accordance with her wishes, cremation rites will be accorded.

Online guestbook available at www.pitchfordfuneralhome.com.

Pitchford Funeral Home in Wood River is in charge of cremation arrangements.

03/01/2026

Larry Eugene Liley, 75, passed away on Friday, February 27th at 6:36 p.m. Larry was born on February 25, 1951 at Wood River Hospital. He grew up in Hartford, Illinois and attended Wood River High School.

Larry joined the United States Marines in June 1968, where he went on to earn a Marksman’s Badge, a Good Conduct Medal, and a National Defense Service Medal. He was honorably discharged in 1969.

Larry loved his family and always shared a special bond with his surviving mother, Shirley (Sumner) East. He is also survived by two sisters; Sondra (Larry) Summers of Wood River, Il and Robin Manning of East Alton, Il; a nephew, Chris (Wendy) Summers; a niece, Jodie (Chaz) Bares; and many other extended family and friends that will miss him greatly. Larry was preceded in death by his father, Roy “Gene” Liley, and his stepfather, Robert East.
Larry’s passion in life was music. He loved to sing and play his many guitars. Whether he was joining friends to play live or just hanging out with his family at home, his life was filled with music. He was an avid vinyl collector and enjoyed passing the time listening to his favorite tunes with his beloved cat, Fuzzy.

The family would like to extend their greatest appreciation to the loving staff at High Point Supportive Living (Wood River); the many Nurses, Techs, and Doctors at Alton Memorial Hospital; and the amazing BJC Hospice team for their excellent care and support throughout Larry’s journey.

Per his request, Larry E. Liley will be laid to rest at Wanda Cemetery, following a private family service.

03/01/2026

https://www.pitchfordfuneralhome.com/obituaries/melvin-traub

View Melvin Traub's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

02/24/2026

Mount Olive:

Linda Marie Nowell, 55, passed away on 8:32pm on Saturday, February 21, 2026, in St. Jacob. She was born on March 24, 1970, in Litchfield, Illinois, the daughter of Robert and the late Linda. In addition to her dad, she is survived by two brothers and sisters in law: Arthur (Rebecca), David (Diane), two nephews: Logan, Morgan, two nieces: Mia, Lara, and many other friends.

Linda was formerly employed as a phlebotomist at Quest Diagnostics. She was a member of the First Baptist Church in Mount Olive.

In accordance with her wishes, cremation rites will be accorded.

Online guestbook available at www.pitchfordfuneralhome.com.

Pitchford Funeral Home in Wood River is in charge of cremation arrangements.

02/21/2026

Godfrey:

Gary Michael Brown, 68, unexpectedly passed away on Tuesday, February 17, 2026
He was born on September 19, 1957, in Alton, the son of the late Melvin Lee and Mary Imogene (Diuguid) Brown.

He married the former Brenda Caldwell on March 20, 1981, in Godfrey, and she survives. Other survivors include a son and daughter in-law: Shawn and January Brown of Streator, Illinois, a brother and sister in-law: Dennis and Patricia Brown of Carrabelle, Florida, and a very special mother in-law Hazel Meyer, and sisters in-law Twila (Kenny) McEuen, Rena Schmidt, Ruth Caldwell, Susan (Jim) Leathers, brother in-law Jack Caldwell, and many dearly loved aunts, uncles, cousins & friends.

Gary started dating the love of his life Brenda in 1977. They were married for almost 45 years. Gary was employed for 35 years with Owens-Illinois Glass Works. Starting as a machinist in Godfrey, IL and transitioned into a supervisor role in Streator, IL Retiring from the company in 2012

He was one of Jehovah’s Witnesses serving as a Congregation Elder and had a deep love for Jehovah God. He grew to know and love the promises set out in the Bible. One of those promises is the hope of the resurrection here on earth. (John 5:28, 29) A hope that he held close to his heart.

His family and friends will be eagerly waiting to welcome him back to a perfect earth when all will be in perfect health. (Revelation 21:3, 4) Until then, we know he is safely kept in Jehovah’s memory.

Gary was known for his big heart, generous spirit & his love of the outdoors & hunting big bucks. He made anyone around him feel welcome & loved. His humor & silly demeanor will be greatly missed by all.

In celebration of his life a Visitation and Talk will be held on Saturday February 28, 2026, at The Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses, 527 Ruth Avenue, Cottage Hills, Illinois, 62018. Visitation will be from 12:00pm to 2:00pm with a memorial talk will be at 2:00pm officiated by Gregory Buckner.

Online guestbook available at www.pitchfordfuneralhome.com.

02/18/2026

Hamel:

Ryan C. Drew, 24, passed away at 11:31pm on Sunday, February 15, 2026, in Edwardsville. Born on March 28, 2001, in Russia, Ryan was the beloved son of Nicholas J. and Alicia S. (Bassler) Drew of Hamel. From the moment he joined his family, he was deeply loved, and he carried that love with him throughout his life in his own quiet way but powerful way.

Ryan was, by nature, socially reserved and had very dry humor. He could sometimes be misunderstood - but those who truly knew him understood the depth of his very big heart. He had a heart of gold. Though he didn't seek the spotlight or express himself easily, he was often the first to step up when someone needed help, even total strangers. It was common for Ryan to see someone stranded & circle around to check and see if they needed assistance or help being pulled out of a ditch or help changing a tire. Whether it was lending a hand, standing up for someone, or quietly donating to a cause he believed in, Ryan showed his compassion through action. He was a true good Samaritan, generous and protective, with a deep sense of right and wrong and a desire to help the underdog. He has taken so many people under his wing and fought for them when others had given up. When he was only 16, he met with his principal and went head to head about an injustice being done to a fellow student who had passed away in a tragic car accident and was not being recognized. He won that battle and his friend got the recognition at graduation that he deserved. Ryan was a proud member of the Bricklayer’s Local 8 and was working at Granite City Steel. He took pride in his work and in being part of something bigger than himself. Outside of work, he loved nature, shooting, working on vehicles, helping other people, and spending time doing hands-on projects. He had a natural mechanical curiosity and enjoyed figuring out how things worked. A former Cub Scout, he carried with him the values of helpfulness and service throughout his life.

In addition to his parents, Ryan is survived by his maternal grandparents: Michael and Marianne Bassler of Belleville, and many other close friends and family.

He was preceded in death by a stillborn brother: Joseph, his paternal grandparents: Jim and Lorraine Drew, and his maternal great grandparents: Ray and Leora Grossmann.

Memorial visitation will be from 1pm until time of celebration of life services at 3:30pm on Saturday, February 21, 2026, at Pitchford Funeral Home in Wood River.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) at www.nami.org or to Hope Autism Clinic at www.hope.us.

02/16/2026

Wood River:

Donna Kay Cornine, 80, passed away at 2:16am on Friday, February 13, 2026, at LaBella of Alton. She was born on December 26, 1945, in Roxana, Illinois, the daughter of the late Floyd and Catherine (Sankovich) Lacy. She married Alan Cornine on November 25, 1964, in Godfrey, and he survives. Other survivors include a daughter and her wife: Kerry Cornine and Gay Buehlman of Alton, two grandchildren: Chase Wallendorff of Colorado Springs, Colorado, Jordan Wallendorff and his fiancé: Brittany of Navarre, Florida, two great grandchildren: Arabella Wallendorff, Elliott Wallendorff, two sisters and a brother in law: Elizabeth Hettick of Belleville, Barbara Jane Fontana and her husband: Joseph of Roxana, two sisters in law: Barbra Lacy of East Alton, Joann Cornine of Bethalto, many nieces, nephews, and other extended family and friends.

A 1964 graduate of Roxana High School, Donna worked as a secretary at Olin Wi******er. She formerly volunteered in the library at Eastwood Elementary School. She was active in fundraising for the band in the East Alton School District and was formerly involved in girl scouts. She enjoyed cake decorating, sewing, and crafting. She loved spending time with her family and friends and was known as “Nonnie” not only to her own family but to many others in the area.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by a brother: Donald and a sister in law: Carol Sue Morgan.

In celebration of her life, visitation will be from 4pm to 7pm on Friday, February, 20, 2026, at Pitchford Funeral Home in Wood River. Funeral services will be held at 10am on Saturday, February 21, 2026, at the funeral home. Burial will follow at Woodland Hill Cemetery in East Alton.

Memorials are suggested to Operation Blessing and will be accepted at the funeral home.

02/15/2026

Barbara Weber, 63, of East Alton, Illinois, passed away on Saturday, February 14, 2026, after a courageous battle with cancer.

Born on January 29, 1963, in Alton, Illinois, Barbara was the beloved daughter of the late Eddie Huntsman Jr. and the late Phyllis Huntsman (Baker).

Barbara graduated from Alton High School in 1982 and earned her cosmetology license at JB Johnson Career Development Center. During her training, she received the top award in a cosmetology competition through the Vocational Industrial Clubs of America (VICA), a reflection of her talent and dedication. She later opened and managed her own salon, Great Cuts, in Alton, Illinois. Barbara took great pride in her work and found joy in helping others feel confident and beautiful. Through her dedication and warm personality, she built lasting relationships with many of her clients.

Barbara especially enjoyed spending time with her family, watching football and baseball games, going on vacation to the beach, family dinners and cheering on her grandchildren at their sporting events.

Barbara is survived by her loving husband, Randy, whom she married on August 5, 1989. She is also survived by her two children, Randy (Morgan) Weber and Staci (John) P***n, who were the pride and joy of her life. Her greatest happiness came from being a Maw-Maw to Bradley, Kade, Sebastian, Makenna, and Bentley, each of whom she loved deeply and cherished beyond measure; her sisters, Carol (Tom) Bridges, Lori Huntsman, and Rebecca (Jeffery) Seymore; and all her loving nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents and her brother, Eddie Huntsman III.

Barbara was known for her strength and fight till the very end.

In celebration of her life, visitation will be from 9:30am until time of funeral services at 11:30am on Wednesday, February 18, 2025, at Pitchford Funeral Home in Wood River. Pastor Jakob Skelton will officiate. Burial will follow at Upper Alton Cemetery.

The family would like to express their gratitude to the nurses at Alton Memorial Rehab and Alton Memorial Hospital who took such great care of Barb and our family during her final days.

Memorials are suggested to the family and will be accepted at the funeral home.

Online guestbook available at www.pitchfordfuneralhome.com.

02/10/2026

Robert Gabbert, 34, of Worden, Illinois passed away Tuesday, February 3, 2026. Born on June 9th, 1991, to Andrew Anderson and the late Peggy Gabbert in Kankakee, Illinois. Robert graduated from Beardstown High School in 2009. Robert is survived by his wife, Lauren (Davis) Gabbert, his children Vivian, Ezra, Emeri and Velexi of Worden, Illinois, and his two sisters: Megan and Marissa Gabbert of Beardstown, Illinois. Robert was known for his sense of humor and dedication to his children. Robert was a bus driver for the Alton school district, and he loved getting to know the students he drove.

In his free time Robert enjoyed disc golf and spending time with his children.

In lieu of flowers, it is requested that a donation be made to the Worden Volunteer Fire Department or to the National Alliance on Mental Health.