Pitchford Funeral Home

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 held at a later date.

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.

View Charles E. "Chuck" Corbin's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

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.

View Kimberly Lamb's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

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.

03/24/2026

Roxana:

Christine Anderson, 86, passed away at 6:15am on Monday, March 23, 2026, at Alton Memorial Hospital. She was born on April 3, 1939, in Scottsville, Kentucky, the daughter of the late James Heaverin and Rethel Lea (Claiborne) Combs. She married
James W. “Jim” Anderson on January 30, 1957, in Franklin, Kentucky, and he preceded her in death on September 1, 2022. Survivors include a daughter and son in law: Veronica and Charlie Krome of Wood River, her daughter in law: Rosemary Anderson of Wood River, two grandchildren: Christopher Anderson – Krome of Olney, Rebecca Rose and Nick Warren of Rosewood Heights, two great grandchildren: Dacota Anderson – Krome of Olney, CJ Anderson – Krome of Olney, a sister and brother in law: Joyce and Larry Nesler of East Alton, a brother: Rufus Combs of Franklin, Kentucky, a special nephew and his wife: Curtis and Joan Roberts of Wood River, many nieces, nephews, and other extended family and friends.

Christine worked as a hairdresser for over twelve years. Christine and her husband owned and operated Andy’s Heating and Cooling for thirty - one years retiring in 2010. She was a member of Peace Church in Granite City.

In addition to her parents and her husband, she was preceded in death by a son: Timothy Anderson and a brother: James Combs.

In celebration of her life, visitation will be from 10:30am until time of funeral services at 12:30pm on Friday, March 27, 2026, at Pitchford Funeral Home in Wood River. Pastor Cory Penn will officiate. Burial will follow at Rose Lawn Memory Gardens in Bethalto.

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

Online guestbook available at www.pitchfordfuneralhome.com.

03/17/2026

Wood River:

Timothy Main, Jr., 45, passed away at 9:41pm on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at his residence. He was born on September 12, 1980, in Alton, the son of Denise (Leady) Miller of Alton, and the late Timothy Main, Sr. In addition to his mom, Timothy is survived by his children: Madalyn Main of Romulus, Michigan, Maddox Main of Wood River, Olyver McMichael of Wood River, an expectant grandchildren, three sisters: Melissa Bruner of Missouri, Michelle Martin of Granite City, Katlyn Main of Alton, many nieces, nephews, and other extended family and friends.

Tim was employed as head of maintenance at the Wi******er Apartments for Midwest Diversified LLC. He loved playing video games and watching Rick and Morty.

In celebration of his life, visitation will be from 1pm to 3pm on Saturday, March 21, 2026, at Pitchford Funeral Home in Wood River.

Memorials are suggested to the family to be used for his children.

03/12/2026

Wood River:

Hallene Palmer, 87, passed away at 1:15pm on Wednesday, March 11, 2026, at Chapters Living of Edwardsville with her family by her side. She was born on September 5, 1938, in Alton, the daughter of the late Harold and Emma (Denother) Cathorall. She married Edgar Palmer on March 10, 1961, in Fosterburg, and he preceded her in death on February 5, 2019. Survivors include two sons and daughters in law: David and Marla Palmer of Wood River, Steven and Kim Palmer of Highland, two sisters: Gertrude Cathorall of Aurora, North Carolina, Delores Jennings of Aurora, North Carolina, many nieces, nephews, and other extended family and friends.

Hallene was formerly employed at Alton Bottled Gas. She attended the Bethalto Presbyterian Church.

In addition to her parents and her husband, she was preceded in death by a sister: Marie Reiter.

In celebration of her life, visitation will be from 9:30am until time of services at 11am on March 16, 2026, at Pitchford Funeral Home in Wood River. Pastor Joel Lohr will officiate. Burial will follow at Valhalla Memorial Park in Godfrey.

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

Online guestbook available at www.pitchfordfuneralhome.com.

03/09/2026

Florissant:

Arthur Z. Baranowski entered into the presence of the Lord on Saturday, March 7, 2026. Art was born on June 20, 1951, in Hartford, Wisconsin, to Arthur R. and Zdzislawa Folwarski. Arthur graduated from Hartford Union High School in 1969. He was conscripted into the military in 1970, serving in the Navy as a torpedosman’s mate. His submarines included the USS Threadfin, USS Amberjack, USS Nathanael Greene, and the USS James Madison. He earned three associates degrees, and a Bachelor of Arts in Education. He retired from the United States Navy in 1995 and the GSA in 2012.

Art enjoyed many vacations, hiking, camping, golfing, and trivia with family and friends.

Art is survived by his loving wife, Carla, his children Tara and Michael, two brothers and a sister in law: Thad and Ruth Baranowski and their kids, his brother Andy, along with many nieces, nephews, and cousins. Art will be missed by his close friends, Jeff and Debbie Lister, JoAnne and Pat Golden, Sue Dietrich, Robine and Bill Tyler, and Teresa and Ernie Cervantes, and their families. The family thanks everyone who has stood by them the last two years on this cancer journey.

In celebration of his life, visitation will be 9am until time of funeral services at 10:45am on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at Pitchford Funeral Home in Wood River. Walter McCaslin and Father Vincent will officiate. Burial will follow at Rose Lawn Memory Gardens in Bethalto with full military honors by the Ritual Team of VFW Post 1308 of Alton.

In lieu of flowers and plants, memorials are suggested to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital and will be accepted at the funeral home.

The family requests guests to please wear their Hawaiian outfits or dress casual.

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.