Pitchford Funeral Home

04/21/2026

Michelle Whitman

Michelle Antoinette Whitman, 61, of Chillicothe, passed away peacefully In her home on Sunday, April 19, 2026.

Michelle was born March 12, 1965, in Alton, IL to the late Kay (Storey) Stuttman and Robert Allsman. Michelle married Roger Whitman on February 17, 2016. He survives.

Michelle was a dedicated School Bus Driver for the IVC School District starting her career there on August 4, 2005 and retired September 27, 2018. After a few years of retirement, she started her position working remotely at PENN Entertainment, as a customer support agent, booking hotel rooms, and taking customer service calls. She absolutely enjoyed working here with her sister and good friend Kristin Wisniewski.

Michelle’s greatest pride and joy were her children and grandchildren, and she showed love in words and constant presence. She started every day with a video call in the morning with her 3 grandchildren, and ended with a video call every evening. She viewed them as her “second chance” at love, wisdom, and fun! She loved them more than life itself.

Michelle was loved by many in her community. Children who rode on her bus would approached her as adults and introduce their children to her. She would love sitting on the front porch in her swing, and see the kids she once drove to school, ride by waving.

Michelle was passionate about many things, including, craft shows, going on short weekend getaways with her sister Debbie, Going to lunch with her daughters Tori and Tricia, Driving 3 hours to Visit her son Caleb and his family, an occasional Hobby Lobby trip and her relationship with Christ. Michelle and Debbie were more than just sisters, they were best friends.

Michelle is survived by her husband Roger Whitman, sharing 23 years together; a son, Caleb (Cory) Gibson of Troy IL, two daughters Tricia Gibson and Victoria Gibson of Chillicothe IL; her 3 grandchildren Grace, Sadie and Wyatt of Troy IL; her sister Debbie Mortland of Troy IL; niece Cassi McGee and Great niece Aria Harrison of East Alton, Nephew, Seth (Kayla) McGee and great nephew Carson McGee of Troy, IL; An Aunt, Bev Storey (Cari Hartnagel), and two Uncles, Rick (Cathy) Storey; and Rob (Diane) Storey. And many cousins.

She is preceded in death by her mother, Patricia Kay Stuttman, father Robert Leroy Allsman, and father to her children Rodger Gibson.

In celebration of her life, visitation will be from 4pm until time of services at 6pm on Saturday, April 25, 2026, at Pitchford Funeral Home in Wood River. Following the services, visitation will continue until 7pm.

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04/18/2026

Barbara Jean Carr

Barbara Jean Carr, 85, Maryville, IL passed away peacefully on April 15, 2026, surrounded by her loving family.

Barbara was born on January 9, 1941 in St. Louis, MO to Ezell Crosby and Idella Crosby. She was raised in Elmwood Park (St. Louis) and attended Ladue School District. Barbara worked for Vactec for over 25 years. Barbara shared a loving marriage of 40 plus years with her late husband, Charles Henry Carr Jr., with whom she raised their four children. In later years, she found love again and was united in marriage to Bill Greensmith, who remained by her side.

Barbara lived a life full of strength, resilience and talent, with a deep love for reading, learning, playing the piano and a commitment to living a healthy life.

Barbara was a gifted and accomplished blues singer whose voice and presence left a lasting mark on the St. Louis music scene and beyond. A native of St. Louis, she began singing in church at a young age and went on to perform with notable artists including Oliver Sain, Solomon Burke, Little Milton and Rufus Thomas. In 1966, she began her recording career at Chess Records in Chicago, IL. She was best known for her hit record, Good Woman Go Bad released in 1984. The record became a St. Louis classic. Over the course of her career, she recorded multiple albums and became a respected voice in blues and soul music, earning recognition such as the Jus’ Blues Music Award and The National Blues Museum Award. She toured internationally, sharing her music with audiences around the world. Her music, rooted in passion and authenticity, connected deeply with audiences and contributed to the rich legacy of blues music.

Barbara was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and friend. She is survived by her loving husband, Bill Greensmith. Her children: Margaret Dennis (former spouse, Gilbert Dennis), Charlesetta Carr, Vicky Hacker (Michael Hacker) and Charles (Chuck) Carr III. Her grandchildren: Keeghan Carr, Teresa Dennis, Tia Cornelious (Jamal Cornelious), Samantha Robinson (Mark Robinson), Cameron Carr, Alexis Carr, Salena Davidson, Jasmine Dennis, Charles Christopher Carr. Her Siblings: James Crosby, Loretta Tunstall, Gracie Williams (Lee Williams) Robert Crosby and a host of great grandchildren, nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her late husband Charles Carr Sr., her father, Ezell Crosby, her mother Idella Crosby, her sister Wanda Crosby and three brothers Ezell Crosby Jr., Willie Crosby, and Kenneth Crosby.

In accordance with her wishes, services will be held privately with family.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made in Barbara’s honor to Siteman Cancer Center. Donations may be made online or by mail to support cancer research and patient care.

Tribute Section (Family Voices)

A wonderful lady! We made a great team!

Signed Bill (Her husband)

To mom – First thank you for trusting me with the hardest task of my life. I did my best and it was my honor. I will miss you calling me almost every morning at work. You would say “What are you doing? “I would say, “I’m at work,” then you would say, “Oh baby that’s so sad.” Mom, you did a song, “My Mama Told Me”. I would sing it as a little girl. When we got together you would imitate me and sing that song. You thought it was so funny. But I knew you were so proud of me. I will learn to play the piano better and hope soon to play a song for you and you are listening. I love how you carried yourself and it helped shape me into the person I am today. Thank you for being my mom and I will always love and miss you.

Signed Margaret

Mom, you are the light in my life, thank you for being there for me when I needed you. My heart aches now that I can’t touch you, but we will see other again one day. Love you always.

Signed Vicky

To mom from Charles. She was my cheerleader. Always on my side and loved her grandchildren. She is still in my heart.

Signed Charles

May my sister rest in peace.

Uncle Robert

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04/17/2026

Brenda Revelle

Worden:

Brenda Revelle, 78, passed away at 5:12am on Thursday, April 16, 2026, in the emergency room at Barnes – Jewish Hospital. She was born on November 27, 1947, in Granite City, the daughter of the late Ralph and Alma (Smith) Miller. She married Joe Revelle on October 24, 1981, in East Alton, and he survives. Other survivors include a daughter and son in law: Stacey and Barry Baggett of Wood River, two grandsons: Brendan (John Heine) Haynes of Wood River, Dallas and Brittany Haynes, Jr. of Staunton, a great grandson: Weston Haynes, a brother and sister in law: Keith and Tammy Miller of East Alton, a sister in law: Cindy Miller of Potosi, Missouri, two half brothers and their wives: Bruce and Deanna Miller of Granite City, Ralph and Cindy Miller, Jr. of Madison, many nieces, nephews, and other extended family and friends.

Brenda was employed by Olin Wi******er in human resources and safety departments where she worked in clerical. She was a member of the First Baptist Church of Maryville. She loved her family and enjoyed spending time with her grandchildren.

In addition to her dad: Ralph Miller, her mother: Alma Smith Baker, a son: Danny Means, Jr., a brother: Larry Miller, and a half sister: Tammy.

In celebration of her life, visitation will be from 10am until time of services at 12pm on Monday, April 20, 2026, at Pitchford Funeral Home in Wood River. Rev. Tom Hufty will officiate. Burial will follow at Sunset Hill Memorial Estates in Glen Carbon.

Memorials are suggested to the Multiple Myeloma Research Foundation or to the Siteman Cancer Center and will be accepted the funeral home.

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04/14/2026

Lonnie Lamar Dickerson

Lonnie Lamar Dickerson, age 56, passed away on Saturday, April 11, 2026. He was born on June 3, 1969, in St. Louis, Missouri to the late Lonnie Dickerson Sr. and Charlotte Dickerson (Rowe).

After spending part of his childhood in St. Louis, Lonnie and his family relocated to Oakland City, Indiana. While he occasionally lived in other communities, Oakland City was always considered home.

Lonnie had a passion for sports, with his talents shining in basketball and track throughout his time as a student. He carried his love for basketball throughout his life and visited the courts nearly every week to play.

Lonnie worked a variety of jobs throughout his life, including nearly two decades in the coal industry, of which he was most fond. He had an unconventional approach to life and believed anything could be accomplished with just a pack of Marlboro Menthols and a 2-liter bottle of Mountain Dew.

Lonnie is survived by children Crystal Nieves, Austin Dickerson, Keeley Dickerson, and his four grandchildren, Jonah, Hannah, Arlo, and Tannen. He is also survived by nieces Marleeta and Monique Dickerson, who he assisted in raising, and siblings Cindy Barnett, Peggy Falls, Lannie Dickerson, and Lance Gray. He also leaves behind several other members as part of his large extended family.

Preceding him in death are his parents, a sister, Lonnetta Dickerson, his former wife, Michelle Tindle, and his beloved dog Oreo, who was a faithful and loving companion, even on his hardest days.

Lonnie’s family acknowledges that many of his relationships had become estranged due to his gradual mental health decline in recent years, and it is their hope that those who knew him well will choose to remember Lonnie from his better days.

An informal gathering will take place Sunday, April 26, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. (EST) at Wirth Park, located at 1101 W. Morton St., Oakland City, Indiana to celebrate Lonnie’s life. Light refreshments will be served, space will be available for children to play, and it will be a nice opportunity for family and friends to honor his memory.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made directly to his children to help offset end of life expenses.

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04/07/2026

Bruce Carpenter

Hartford:

Bruce Carpenter, 57, passed away at 12:56pm on Saturday, April 4, 2026, at Alton Memorial Hospital. He was born on February 22, 1969, in Granite City, the son of the late William and Betty (Sullivan) Carpenter. Survivors include his longtime companion: Karen Dean of Hartford, two sons: Brenden Carpenter of Cottage Hills, Kale Carpenter of Hartford, two bonus children: Dillon (Dylan Fuehne) Dean of Alton, Dawson Dean of Hartford, three sisters: Dana (Steve McMahon) Almeter of Worden, Denise and Dave Hellrung of Alton, Brenda Stovall of Booneville, Missouri, his bonus in laws, Elaine and Richard Dean, his brother and sister in law, Gary and Stacy Dean, who were very special to him, and many nieces, nephews, and other extended family and friends.

Most could identify Bruce out of a crowd by his contagious laugh, a sound that brought instant warmth to any room. A great man with a deep passion for cars and motorcycles, Bruce found joy not only in the things he loved, but in the people around him. He had a gift for feeding others, whether it was through firing up the grill or quietly picking up the tab for a meal or drink. In fact, it became a running game among friends and family to see who could pay the bill first—though Bruce often won without anyone noticing. If your car broke down, Bruce was the one you could count on. Time and time again, especially during harsh winter days, he would drive around simply looking for people to help—pulling cars out of ditches without asking for anything in return. He didn’t do it for recognition; he did it because that’s who he was. Known for his unwavering generosity, he spent his life offering support, comfort, and a steady hand to others. In keeping with the compassion that defined him, he chose to donate his organs, ensuring that his final act on this earth would bring hope and healing to others. The world would be better if we all loved like Bruce.

In addition to his parents, Betty and William Carpenter from South Roxana, he was preceded in death by a brother: Billy.

A celebration of Bruce’s life will be held at 1pm on Saturday, May 9, 2026, at the Wood River Moose Lodge.

Memorials are suggested to the family.

You can visit Bruce's go fund me at https://gofund.me/c14f0fdd5

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04/05/2026

Rosjean Custer

Worden:

Rosjean Custer, 63, passed away at 9:05am on Monday, March 30, 2026, at her residence. She was born on September 26, 1962, in Alton, the daughter of Viola (Smart) Kelly and the late Dennis Kelly. She married Bryan Custer on May 21, 1983, in Glen Carbon, and he survives. In addition to her mom and step dad: Viola “Mindy” and Paul Draper of Wood River and her husband, Rosjean is survived by a son and daughter in law: Jacob and Sarah Custer of Alton, two daughters and a son in law: Bryann and Nathaniel Pfeiffer of Mt. Olive, Brittany Custer of Wood River, four grandchildren: Lowen, Cadence, Anita, Whitley, two brothers and sisters in law: Michael and Mary Kelly of Orlando, Florida, Todd and Alicia Kelly of Edwardsville, a sister and brother in law: Roxanne and Keith Shaw of Port Orange, Florida, many nieces, nephews, and other extended family and friends.

Rosjean obtained a Master’s Degree in Social Work and was employed at William BeDell ARC for over thirty years as a program director and prior to her retirement was the CILA Program director. She was a member of Zion Lutheran Church in Bethalto. She enjoyed kayaking, hiking, boating, reading, and training dogs. She was a member of the American Chesapeake Club and the search and rescue program in St. Louis.

In addition to her dad, she was preceded in death by a sister: Kimberly.

A celebration of life will be from 1pm to 4pm on Saturday, May 16, 2026, at Nicky G's Italian Eats, 402 South Maple Street, Brighton, Illinois, 62012.

Memorials are suggested to the Alton Police Canine Fund, In Memory of Rosjean Custer, and can be mailed to the Alton Police Department,1700 East Broadway, Alton, Illinois, 62002.

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04/03/2026

Charles E. "Chuck" Corbin

Charles E. “Chuck” Corbin, 62, of Alton, Illinois, passed away at his home on Wednesday, April 1, 2026.

He was born May 13, 1963, in Alton, Illinois, the son of Nancy J. (Zimmer) Corbin of Alton and the late Paul E. Corbin.

Chuck dedicated many years of service working in maintenance for the Alton School District. He had a passion for yard sales and was an avid collector who took great pride in finding and negotiating a good deal. He especially cherished antiques and enjoyed restoring concrete yard ornaments.

Chuck loved the outdoors, enjoyed fishing and took exceptional care of his home, where his immaculate yard, flowers, and garden were a source of pride. He also had a special love for animals and found joy in feeding the many critters that visited his yard.

Above all, Chuck treasured his family. He deeply enjoyed holidays and family gatherings, creating lasting memories with those he loved.

In addition to his beloved mother, Nancy, he is survived by his sister, Lisa (Rick) Wahl of Brighton; his brother and brother-in-law, Ken (Jason Denton) Corbin of Hartford; his niece, Hope (Adam Schaibly) Izard of Godfrey; and many extended family members and dear friends.

In addition to his father, he was preceded in death by his grandparents, Mildred K. “Mickey” and Charles “Chuck” Lawhorn, John Bernard Zimmer, and Albert and Evelyn Corbin; and by his uncle, John Zimmer.

A celebration of Chuck’s life will be held at Pitchford Funeral Home, 2555 Vaughn Road in Wood River, on Friday, April 10, 2026, from 9:30 a.m. until the time of the funeral service at 11:00 a.m., with Father Stephen Janoski officiating. Burial will follow at Rose Lawn Memory Gardens in Bethalto.

Memorials may be made to the Alton 5A’s Animal Shelter or Hope Animal Rescues.

Condolences and memories may be shared at www.irwinchapel.com.

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04/02/2026

Kimberly Lamb

Alton:

Kimberly Lamb, 65, passed away at 2:37am on Monday, March 30, 2206, at LaBella of Alton. She was born on August 1, 1960, in Bad Axe, Michigan, the daughter of Dolores (Cove) Smeaton of LaPorte, Indiana and the late Wallace Smeaton. In addition to her mom, she is survived by two daughters: Marie Maupin of LaPorte, Indiana, Brittney Barney of LaPorte, Indiana, four grandchildren: Curtis, Lauryn, Kristina, Keirstin, a sister: Cindy Heiman of Arizona, a brother and sister in law: Dennis and Beth Smeaton of Taylorsville, Kentucky, and many other extended family and friends.

Cremation rites have been accorded.

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04/02/2026

Daxton Lane Baker

Infant Daxton Lane Baker passed on April 1, 2026, at Children’s Hospital. He was born March 23, 2026, in St. Louis, the son of Cayden Baker and Kaitlyn Rappel of Brighton. In addition to his parents he is survived by his sister Mallie Rappel, his maternal grandparents Paula Rappel of Bunker Hill, Illinois and Eddie Rappel and Lacie Dreisewerd of Hardin, Illinois, paternal grandma: Jessica Baker of Brighton, Illinois, his maternal great grandparents: James Lane and Kay Mott of Dow, his paternal great grandparents: Dennis and Virginia Baker of Brighton, Illinois, and Patricia DeSherlia of Hardin, Illinois, many aunts, uncles, and cousins.

In celebration of his life, visitation will be held from 9:30am on Tuesday April 7,2026 until time of services at 10:30am at Pitchford Funeral Home in Wood River, Illinois. TJ Callahan will officiate. Burial will follow at Upper Alton Cemetery.

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04/01/2026

Nellie Gynon Black

Edwardsville:

Nellie Gynon “Jean” Black, 87, passed away at 12:35am on Saturday, March 28, 2026, at LaBella in Edwardsville. She was born on December 24, 1938, in Kentucky, the daughter of the late George and Merle (Brown) Rowe. She married Daniel J. Black and he preceded her in death. Survivors include many nieces, nephews, and other extended family and friends.

Jean formerly worked in the cleaning business. She was a grandma at Senior Services Plus and read books to special needs children and loved to be generous and care for others. She loved the Lord and was very active in her faith.

In addition to her parents and her husband, she was preceded in death by many brothers and sisters.

In celebration of her life, visitation will be from 9am until time of funeral services were held at 10am on Friday, April 3, 2026, at the Meadowbrook First Southern Baptist Church. Pastor Kevin Auten officiated. Burial will follow at Murdale Gardens of Memory in Murphysboro, Illinois.

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03/30/2026

Amie Lynn Emery - Kelly

Amie Lynn Emery Kelly, 46, passed away on March 28, 2026. Born on August 28, 1979, she was the beloved daughter of Butch Emery and the late Vickie Kenshalo Emery.

Amie was a woman of immense heart who dedicated her life to her family and her community. She was a familiar and friendly face at Sparky’s in South Roxana, where she worked as a bartender and line cook. To Amie, her coworkers and regular customers were more than just colleagues and patrons—they were her second family.

Known for her culinary skills and her "open door" heart, Amie would help anyone at any time. Her final act of kindness was fulfilling her wish to be an organ donor, providing others with a second chance at life.

She is survived by her father, Butch; her husband, Pat Kelly; her sons, Jeff and Braden Emery; stepson Nick Kelly; stepdaughter Skylar Carroll; and her cherished granddaughter, Payson. She also leaves behind two brothers and their spouses, Chris (Katie) Emery and Kevin (Erin) Emery, and her lifelong best friend, Dina Jackson. She was preceded in death by her mother, Vickie, and her cousins Michael Kenshalo and Johnny Allen Gleason.

The family extends their deepest gratitude to the ER staff at Alton Memorial, Belleville Memorial ICU, and the Neuro ICU team at Barnes-Jewish Hospital for their compassionate care.

A Celebration of Life will be held at 2pm on Saturday, April 4, 2026, at Sparky’s, 1112 Madison Avenue in South Roxana.

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03/25/2026

Juanita Sue Cox

July 13, 1973 – January 22, 2026

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Juanita Cox, a devoted animal lover, and proud U.S. Navy veteran. Juanita lived a life of service—both to her country and to the natural world she cherished so deeply.

Born on July 13, 1973, in Alton, Illinois, Juanita answered the call to serve by joining the U.S. Navy (2001-2007), where she dedicated herself with honor and resilience. After her time in the military, she carried that same unwavering spirit with her love for animals and those around her. Whether rescuing stray creatures, nurturing gardens in full bloom, or advocating for the preservation of nature, she found joy and purpose in protecting all living things.

Her kindness was limitless, her heart open to every soul—human and animal alike. She found peace in the rustling of leaves, the rhythm of the ocean, and the quiet presence of creatures who crossed her path. Those who knew her will forever remember her compassion, strength, and deep connection to the world around her.

Juanita is survived by two brothers and a sister: David Jeffrey Cox II and his wife: Kim of St. Charles, Missouri, sister: Melissa McKee and her husband: Chris of Brighton, brother Jonathan Cox of Godfrey (and his former wife) Rachel Cox of Jerseyville, and nieces and nephews: Emma, Alex, Kaylee and Landen and her cat: Jack.

She is preceded in death by her father, David J Cox, mother and stepfather Joyce and Thomas Buzzanga and her brother: William “Bill” Cox, in eternal rest with our Lord Jesus Christ.

A celebration of her life will be from 1pm to 4pm on Saturday, March 28, 2026, at Bluff City Grill where friends and family are invited to share memories and laughter on the remarkable life she lived.

Private burial was at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Riverbend Humane Society.