Dewitt Obits Archives for 2026-05

Margaret Helen Barnes

Margaret Helen Lofgren Barnes, age 97, of Clinton, Illinois, passed from this life to her next everlasting life on May 8, 2026, at Goldwater Care in Clinton. She will be reunited in Heaven with George, her husband of 51 years, who preceded her in death on August 17, 2000.

 

Services will be 2 PM Saturday May 16, 2026 at Calvert Funeral Home, Clinton, IL with Rev Paul Stroup and Scott Marsh officiating. Burial will follow at Wilmore cemetery. Visitation will be 1 – 2 PM Saturday at the Funeral Home.

 

Memorials may be directed towards Clinton Presbyterian Church, Second Chance Pet Adoption or the Texas Christian Church.

 
 

Margaret was born on November 1, 1928, to Edwin and Jennie Lofgren in Altona, Illinois. She was a graduate of Altona High School and continued her education at Bradley University in Peoria. She sang with Big Bands during that time. It was in Peoria that she met the love of her life, George W. Barnes from Galena, Missouri. George had moved to Peoria seeking his fortune and it was love at first sight. They married on July 31,1949 in Altona. They moved to Clinton in 1955 as George advanced with Caterpillar.

 

Margaret is survived by sons Jeff of Kenney, Illinois and Brad (Lori, deceased) of Clinton, and daughter Janice (Ed) Brashear of Iuka, Illinois. She was grandmother to: Aaron (Elizabeth) Barnes of Clinton, Laura (Taylor) Sickles of Kenney, Illinois, Ben (Andrea) Meagher of Charlotte, North Carolina, Wade Brashear, of Benton Illinois, Jessica Brashear of Wayne City, Illinois, Jennifer (Jerade) McGinnis of Cooksville, Illinois, Christina (Steven) Bateson of Clinton. Margaret had 18 great-grandchildren, and 3 great-great grandchildren.

 

Margaret was preceded in death by George, her husband of 51 years, as well as her 3 sisters: Charlotte, Grace, Mary and 1 brother: William Lofgren.

 

Margaret attended the Clinton Presbyterian Church for 71 years and was very active in her church. After raising her children, Margaret worked in the Clinton School system as a secretary in several of the facilities. She also worked in the Circuit Clerk’s office for several years.

 

Margaret and George moved to Piracicaba, Brazil in 1978 where George set up a Caterpillar manufacturing plant, supervising hundreds of Brazilian employees. Prior to going there, they had to learn conversational Portuguese in a 6-week crash course. Margaret taught English classes to the local children.

 

After living in Brazil for 6 years, Margaret & George returned to Clinton where Margaret decided to pursue a career in real estate. In 1986 she became a realtor for Joe Bianucci Real Estate Company. For 5 years in a row (1988-1992), Margaret achieved membership in the Medallion Club selling more than $1 million dollars in real estate in each of those years.

 

Margaret enjoyed keeping busy with charitable organizations and projects. She was a 4-H leader, an active member of the Texas Homemakers’ Association, a member of the American Legion Auxiliary, Warner Hospital Auxiliary and volunteered for Poppy Days for many years.  She worked every year at the Homestead Apple & Pork festival selling sandwiches and guiding tours. Margaret was an avid bowler and participated in several national tournaments. She and George were in Eastern Star where they presided as Worthy Matron & Worthy Patron. She loved to travel in the U.S. and to many other countries.

 

In Margaret’s 97 years, she cultivated multitudes of friends, families, and co-workers. Everyone she met would agree that she was friendly, honest, and virtuous. The family wishes to thank and acknowledge Tina at Goldwater Care, as well as many other caring and comforting individuals, too numerous to enumerate, who cared for Margaret. 

The family of Margaret Barnes is grateful to God, for her life, for your friendship, and for your

 

kindness and prayers.
 

Online condolences may be made at www.calvertmemorial.com

 

Jacob "JD" D. Johnson

Clinton, IL -- Jacob "JD" D. Johnson, born February 5, 1942, passed away surrounded by the love of his family on May 7, 2026, 3:23 p.m. at OSF St. Joseph Hospital in Bloomington, Illinois.

JD was, in every sense that mattered, a cowboy — not by trade, but by character. He lived with strength and courage, doing the hard things when they needed to be done, while always carrying himself with a quiet, gentlemanly grace. He believed deeply in respect — especially in the way a man should treat women — with kindness, dignity, and honor. He also believed in the responsibility of men to protect and care for their families — values he lived out every day of his life.

As a man of 5'10", he often seemed larger than life. His willingness to lend a hand, offer a service, or simply stop for a chat gave him a presence that extended far beyond his stature. At times, he carried the weight of responsibility on broad shoulders as if it were effortless — just cowboying it up.

JD took pride in being well-groomed and put together. He often joked that if someone showed up in a wrinkled shirt, they “must have slept on a park bench.” Boots, pressed pants, and pearl-snap shirts were his standard for out, denim for work, but always clean-shaven, fresh haircut, and hair neatly combed. He did not like to be “out of sorts,” whether in his appearance or in the arrangement of his garage, tools, shop, or even the placement of items in his truck. Tools were to be returned neatly to their holders, and seat protectors carefully put back into place, bearings always greased, and maintenance documented. To JD, there was a certain calm in order, in things being in their place, and in presenting oneself with care.

He was born to Lillie Beeler Johnson and Edward Wade Johnson during a time when the world was at war. In his early years, he spent much of his time with his grandparents, Jake and Mable Beeler, who helped shape the foundation of the man he would become.

JD grew up in Kenney, Illinois, and attended Kenney schools until its consolidation with Clinton schools. He graduated from Clinton High School, where he was an active member of the FFA and served as Vice President (1959–1960) and President (1960–1961) of the Chapter.

JD worked as a driver for the Teamsters until 2002. After his “retirement,” he continued his life of service with the Tunbridge Township Road Commission, where he worked as the Road Commissioner until his passing. He now bequeaths the rocks, shovels, salt, and road pack to the trusted morning coffee crew at the township shed.

The word “retirement” was always used loosely — because if you knew JD, you knew it was never truly an option. Though he loved music, motors, horses, buying trailers, trading lawn mowers, and finding the best deal on just about anything, JD’s true hobby was work. He once said his only regret was that “maybe he worked too much.” Those who knew him understood that it would never have been any other way — but they should also carry forward his quiet wisdom: keep work in perspective and do not let it become your whole life.

In July of 1961, he eloped with the love of his life, Ruth P. Moews of Bloomington, Illinois, who survives. Together they built a life rooted in Central Illinois, raising their three daughters near the Kenney area. When asked about being married so young, and eloping, would you change anything? JD smiled and said, “He would do it, again, all over with her.” Their stead-fast love was a grounding feature of their relationship from conception to end.

JD carried his legacy of guidance, guardianship, direction, and protection not only to his children, but to the generations that followed. He welcomed seven grandchildren: Joshua Baker (Wisconsin), Jacalyn Green (Illinois), Cameron Green (Illinois), Jake Cooley (wife Sheena; Illinois), Jonah Cooley (Indiana), and Jade Henson (Illinois). He was preceded in death by one granddaughter, Ronna Nicole Burden Yoakam.

He also welcomed great-grandchildren: Lauren Raithel; Maci and Kira Brooks; Wyatt and Kennedy Cooley; Isiah, Elijah, and Marley Yoakam; and JoCee Totten.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Ruth; and his daughters, Laurie Green (Darcy Green), Dede Johnson, and Kristina Valentine (Ron Devore), all of Clinton, IL. Both his brothers, Rick K Johnson (wife, Marvetta; Illinois) Mike Johnson (wife, Ginger; Tennessee) survive him, along with several nieces and nephews that simply call him “Uncle Jake.”

His legacy lives on through the family he helped shape and the values he instilled in them. On hard days, JD would often drive home listening to Floyd Cramer, letting the troubles of the day drift out the window before he walked through the door. Long before “being present” became a common phrase, Jake practiced it. Perhaps it was because home was not always quiet — with three daughters who could give him a run for his money, and later grandchildren who sometimes needed the steady guidance and direction only grandpa could provide. His expectations at home were firm but always rooted in understanding and love. No matter what day, JD believed in letting the bad out the window and bringing his best-self home to the people who mattered most. Giving intention and attention to family — was one of his cowboy ways.

JD will be remembered for the way he showed up — for his family, for his responsibilities, and for the life he built with steady hands and a strong heart. He will be deeply missed and forever honored.

A celebration of life will be held at Little Galilee Christian Camp, 7539 Little Galilee Road, Clinton, IL on Saturday, May 16, 2026, from 11:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m., and the family is requesting for all to bring a memory and share a story to honor this great man.

Memorials may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.

Peasley Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Kathleen M. Edwards

Kathleen M. Edwards, 80 of Clinton, IL passed away 11:38 AM May 8, 2026 at Goldwater Care, Clinton, IL.

 

Funeral Services will be 10 AM Wednesday, May 13, 2026 at Calvert Funeral Home, Clinton, IL with Fr. Thomas Szydlik Officiating. Burial will follow at Oak Park Cemetery, Clinton, IL. Visitation will be 9 – 10 AM Wednesday at the Funeral Home.

 

Memorials may be directed to St. John the Baptist Catholic Church.

 

Kathleen was born July 24, 1945 in Decatur, IL the daughter of Bransford and Berniece (Bourne) Edwards. 

 

Survivors include her children, Kevin (Carla) Danison, Maroa, IL; Kristine (Shawn) Evans, Lovington, IL; 8 grandchildren; 9 great-grandchildren; siblings, David (Marlene) Edwards, Heyworth, IL; Carolyn Powers, Decatur, IL; Sheila Herndon, Decatur, IL.

 

Kathleen was preceded in death by her parents.

 

 
Kathleen worked at the Dewitt County Circuit Clerks Office and the Macon County States Attorney’s Office.

Janislee Peacock

Janislee (“Jan” or “Momo”) Peacock,79, of Clinton and formerly of Kenney, passed away with her family by her side at 5:47 PM on May 8, 2026 at Decatur Memorial Hospital.

Janislee was born on January 6, 1947 to Vernon Lee & Blanche (Clauson) Wilkinson in Canton, Illinois.  She was happily married to Charles M. (“Charlie”) Peacock from August 2, 1969 until he passed away on June 21, 2014.

Visitation will be from 5:00-7:00 PM on Tuesday, May 19 at Calvert Funeral Home in Clinton. Graveside services will be at 10:00 AM on Wednesday, May 20 at Pleasant Valley Cemetery in Kenney with cousin Scott Ketcham officiating.  Charlie and Jan are being reunited not just spiritually but also physically, as Charlie’s cremains will be buried with Jan per their wishes.

Jan is survived by son Charles “Lee” (Lisa) Peacock of Clinton; grandsons Ryan (Bree) Peacock of Clinton and Connor Peacock of Kenney; and brother Michael (Rita) Wilkinson of Canton.  She is also survived by nieces and nephews Robin Fraser of Urbana, Sean Fraser of Champaign, Brett (Tiffany) Wilkinson of Effingham and Brienna (Derek) Cozad of Canton, as well as many cousins.

Jan graduated from Canton High School in 1965 and attended Illinois State University where she majored in Mathematics.  Her career included working for Sargent & Lundy (at Clinton Power Station), Clinton Imperial China, Wildwood Industries, and Prairie Fire Sprinkler.

Momo was happiest spending time with her family, especially her grandsons.  She enjoyed playing pinochle, watching the Chicago Bears, traveling, camping, fishing, going to Bingo, doing puzzles, all things peacock, and spoiling her dog, Rosebud.  She was a master of math and Excel spreadsheets.  

Memorials may be directed to Ruby’s Rescue & Retreat at 4035 County Rd 600 N, McLean IL 61754.

Online condolences may be made at www.calvertmemorial.com

Kenny May

Kenny May, 70 of Clinton, IL passed away 9:52 PM May 6, 2026 at his home, leaving behind a legacy of laughter, kindness, and deep love for the people and places that meant the most to him.  

 

Celebration of Kenny’s life will be 3 – 7 PM Saturday June 6, 2026 at Kenny May’s homestead which has been in the family since 1855. The family entrusted Calvert Funeral Home, Clinton, IL with cremation rites.  

 

Memorials may be directed to DeWitt County Pheasants Forever.

 

Born September 29, 1955 to Merle C. “Bud” and Nancy H. (Longenbaugh) May, Kenny grew up in Clinton where he built lifelong friendships and roots within the community he cherished so dearly. He graduated from Clinton Community High School and went on to dedicate 42 years of service as a postal carrier, becoming a familiar and trusted face to countless families throughout the area before his retirement.

 

Kenny was a proud and passionate supporter of the DeWitt County Pheasants Forever Chapter during his 37-year membership, eight of those years as president. Where is love for conservation, farmland, wildlife, and the outdoors could truly shine. Whether walking fields, sharing stories, or lending a helping hand, Kenny made an impact that will be remembered by many.

 

Above all, Kenny will be remembered for the joy he brought into every room. He was fun-loving, hilarious, generous, and endlessly helpful – the kind of person who could make others smile no matter the situation. He loved blue-grass music, a cold Budweiser, a good cigar, nature, and time spent with the people he cared about most.

 

Kenny shared a deep and loving companionship with Jenny, who remained faithfully by his side. Their bond was one filled with love, laughter, and unwavering support.

 

Thou his passing leaves an immeasurable void, Kenny’s spirit lives on in the stories shared, the laughter remembered, and the many lives he touched throughout his years.

 

Survivors include his sister, Peggy (Frank) Lamar, Wapella, IL; brother, Scotty (Lori) May, Wapella, IL; longtime companion, Jenny Hendrix, Clinton, IL; brother-in-law, Terry Howarth, Defiance, OH; 11 nieces & nephews; and 13 great nieces & nephews.

 

He was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Jim May; and sister, Vicki Howarth.

 

Online condolences may be made at www.calvertmemorial.com

Shirley F. Rittenhouse

Shirley F. Rittenhouse, 89, of Farmer City, Illinois, passed away at 7:06 P.M. Wednesday, May 6, 2026, at Haven of Farmer City.

A joint graveside service honoring William “Bill” and Shirley F. Rittenhouse will be held at 11:00 A.M. Monday, May 11, 2026, at Maple Grove Cemetery, Farmer City, Illinois, with Kyle Kopp officiating. There will be no visitation.

Memorials may be made to Haven of Farmer City, 404 Brookview Drive, Farmer City, Illinois 61842 or Transitions Hospice, 3011A Village Office Place, Champaign, Illinois 61822.

Calvert-Belangee-Bruce Funeral Home of Farmer City, Illinois, is assisting the family with arrangements.

Shirley was born on September 11, 1936, in Mahomet, Illinois, a daughter of Harold C. and Opal E. (Welch) Wheeler. She married William “Bill” Rittenhouse on November 19, 1955, in Farmer City, Illinois. He passed away December 19, 2025.

She is survived by her two grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; and sister, Elizabeth (Mike) Cleveland of Plain City, Ohio.

Shirley was preceded in death by her husband, William “Bill” Rittenhouse; three sons, Jerry A., Kenneth E. and Tony L. Rittenhouse; and three sisters, Dolores Buchanan, Patricia Smothers and Francis Reynolds.

She was a retired receptionist for Dr. George E. Castrovillo.  Shirley was a member of the First Christian Church in Farmer City, Illinois.  She enjoyed playing cards.

Shirley enjoyed spending time with family and friends and will be missed by all.

Curtis B. "Curt" Miller

Curtis B. Miller

Curt

March 29, 1955 – April 22, 2026

 

Curtis departed this world peacefully on April 22, 2026, at Carle Foundation Hospital.

Curtis was born on March 29, 1955, in Bloomington, IL. 

He was preceded in death by his wife Karen Miller, and parents Charles Miller and Joyce Miller. 

Surviving is his Partner in Crime Barb Schmidt; children Jason and Holly Miller, Justin and Natalie Miller, Christine and Chris Bowling, Alexa and Hunter May, and step-daughter Aubrey and Jamie Wachtel; his grandchildren Brittany Miller, Austin and Blakley Miller, Josi Miller, and Christina Miller; and his brothers Rob and Janis Stevens, Kevin and Franci Miller, Tom Pearcy and Jason Buchanan. 

Curt dedicated his professional life to the open road as a truck driver, where his steadfast work ethic and commitment were evident to all who knew him. His career was not just a means of livelihood, but a testament to his love for adventure and the freedom of the road. 

Rest in peace Dad. You have reached the ultimate destination. 

Keep on Truckin, Trucker! 

There will be a Celebration of Life at the Farmer City American Legion on Saturday, May 9, 2026 from 11 – 1. 

Private graveside service for family.

Calvert-Belangee-Bruce Funeral Home of Farmer City, is assisting the family with arrangements.

James W. Huffman

James W. Huffman, 70, of Clinton, IL passed away May 2, 2026 in Clinton, IL leaving behind a lifetime of memories.

 

Visitation will be 5-7 PM, Thursday, May 7, 2026 at Calvert Funeral Home, Clinton, IL. 

 

Memorials may be directed to the James W. Huffman Memorial Fund to provide for his grandchildren’s education.

 

Jim was born January 5, 1956 in Lincoln, IL the son of Richard L. and Edith C. Huffman.

 

Survivors include his son, Andrew (Shaye) Huffman, Wapella, IL and his daughter, Ashley (Cory) Cooper, Clinton, IL; his greatest joy – his grandchildren – Avery, Talon, Adlyn, and Karsyn who truly made his heart full; and sisters, Linda (Butch) Monkman, Ellis Grove, IL; Beverly Rhodes, Clinton, IL; and Marian (Doug) Brisard, Clinton, IL.

 

Jim was preceded in death by his parents, and brother, David E. Huffman.

 

Jim was hard-working and believed in showing up for the people he loved.  He was the kind of person who would do anything for you.  He enjoyed golfing, camping, razor riding, and was always up for a trip to a Chinese buffet.  His happiest times were with his family and friends whether working on a project or having a few beers in the garage.  He was his grandchildren’s biggest fan – never missing an opportunity to support them at a game, performance, or event.

 

Jim will be forever loved and deeply missed. 

 

 

Online condolences may be made at www.calvertmemorial.com

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