Walker Funeral Home & Crematory of Southern Illinois

08/11/2026

Skipper Eugene Nimmo
Graveside services with Military Honors will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, August 15, 2026, at De Soto City Cemetery. Following the service, family and friends are invited to a Celebration of Skip's Life from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at Backwoods, 444 Lavern Road, De Soto, Illinois 62924. Please bring lawn chairs.

08/07/2026

Gregory Gerard Hajek – Royalton
Gregory Gerard Hajek of Royalton, IL was born on Friday, July 17, 1964, in Sparta, IL to Charles Eugene Hajek, Sr. and Katherine Louise Hajek, nee McCormick. He passed away on Tuesday, July 28, 2026, at the age of 62 years and 11 days.

Gregory attended and graduated from Sparta High School in Sparta, IL, and went on to serve his country honorably in the United States Marine Corps. Later in life, he spent many years working hard as a riverboat laborer. On March 23, 2022, he married the love of his life, Christina Marie Orton, in Chester, IL.
Gregory was a man of many passions. He was incredibly handy and loved tinkering with small engines, but his real joy was building and working on motorized bicycles. When he wasn’t in the garage, you could find him tending to his vegetable garden, collecting owls and tools, or out on the water fishing for catfish. He had a deep love for all kinds of music, especially the Steve Miller Band, and nothing made him happier than sharing a laugh and spending quality time with his close friends. Above all else, Gregory cherished his family and he will be deeply missed by everyone who knew him.
Gregory is preceded in death by his parents Charles and Katherine Hajek; and mother-in-law Debra S. Orton.

Gregory is survived by his loving wife, Christina Foster of Royalton, IL; father-in-law Kenneth Orton (wife, Carrie) of Park Hills, MO; daughter Amber Cook (significant other, Cody) of Chester, IL; step-children Brenden Hubbard (significant other Haylie Powers) of Sedalia, MO and Lyndsie (husband, Daniel) Watts of Omaha, NE; sisters Vicky (husband, William) Weber of Steelville, MO and Pamela Reed of Park Hills, MO; brother Charles E. Hajek, Jr. of Columbia City, IN; grandchildren Logan, Tyson, Jaylyn, Josey, Raeglyn, and Ella; step-grandchildren Eilyah and Auriella; nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

The family chose cremation as his final disposition.

Arrangements under the direction of Hutson Funeral Home, Steelville, Misouri and Walker Funeral Home of Carbondale.

08/07/2026

Gary Lynn King ~ Murphysboro

Gary Lynn King, born April 8, 1950, in Carbondale, Illinois, passed away after a life lived at full speed.
Gary was the son of Mary Gillooly King and Warren “Skip” King and grew up with an independence that never faded. He is survived by his sister, Tamara King Walker. Gary was a proud father to his son, Daniel and his wife Alana, of Gallatin, TN, and a proud grandfather to Austin and Colten King, who he bragged on continuously. He is also survived by his niece Kailey Walker Maier.
Gary spent his life as an electrician and proud member of IBEW Local 702, and he invested himself in the trade, the workers, and eventually retirees’ group. Whether he was swapping stories with the brotherhood, working through a job, or chasing the next adventure, Gary brought personality everywhere he went. The outdoors was his second home. Hunting and fishing weren’t just hobbies — they were part of who he was. He lived big, laughed loud, and never passed up a chance to have a good time.

In keeping with Gary’s wishes, there will be no public viewing or services. In lieu of flowers or gifts, please make any donations in his honor to the IBEW Local 702 Benevolence and Welfare Fund in his honor at 106 N Monroe St, West Frankfort, IL 62986.
Walker Funeral Home and Crematory of Southern Illinois is honored to serve the family and has been entrusted with the arrangements.

08/05/2026

Donald R. Gee – Alto Pass
Donald R. Gee, 75, of Alto Pass, Illinois, passed away on July 18, 2026, at Saint Francis Medical Center in Cape Girardeau, Missouri.
He was born on February 22, 1951, in Hammond, Indiana, the son of the late Gilbert and Doris (Stearns) Gee.
Donald was a skilled master carpenter who dedicated his life to his craft. He worked for many years as a civilian contractor at an Air Force base in Austin, Texas, where he specialized in cabinetmaking. His exceptional workmanship and attention to detail reflected the pride he took in everything he built.
Donald was also a proud veteran of the United States Navy. He enlisted in 1969 and faithfully served his country for four years as an Air Traffic Controller at Navy training bases. His military service remained a source of great pride throughout his life.
In his free time, Donald found joy in woodworking and was rarely happier than when creating something with his hands. He also loved music and enjoyed playing his guitar for family and friends, sharing his talent and bringing happiness to those around him.
He is survived by his sisters, Patricia Gee-Vinson and Denise Gee-Jones; his nieces and nephews, Jennifer Bittle-Windings and her husband, Dr. John Windings, Keith Bittle, Brian Maxwell and his wife, Courtney, Jessica Maxwell Clarke and her husband, Joseph Clarke, Chip Jones and his wife, Theresa, and Rusty Jones and his wife, Kim; along with numerous great-nieces, great-nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Reverend Gilbert S. Gee and Doris Gee.
Funeral services will be held on Saturday, August 15, 2026, at Dutch Ridge Church in Pomona, Illinois at 10:30 a.m., with Clifford Waller officiating. Immediately following the service, family and friends will proceed to Dutch Ridge Cemetery, where Military Honors will be conducted at the graveside prior to burial.
Walker Funeral Home and Crematory of Southern Illinois is honored to serve the family and has been entrusted with the arrangements.

07/31/2026

07/08/2026

Sean Ross Johnson – Carterville
Sean Ross Johnson, 47, passed away at his residence on June 28, 2026.
He was born on February 14, 1979, in Marion, Illinois, the son of Anne Veech and John E. Johnson.
Sean lived a life filled with adventure, curiosity, and a wide variety of experiences. Throughout his life he worked in sales, the restaurant industry, and acting, He lived in Carbondale, Corpus Christi, Chicago, Los Angeles, and eventually back home to Southern Illinois. He was active in baseball, Tae Kwon Do, and surfing, and he embraced every opportunity to experience life and meet new people.
Sean was intelligent, witty, skeptical, kind-hearted, stubborn, endlessly curious, and uniquely himself. Those who knew and loved him would each have their own stories to add to that list. His sense of humor, thoughtful conversations, and distinctive outlook on life left a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to know him.
He is survived by his mother, Anne Veech; his aunts, Pat Veech (Cecil) Rousseau, and Tina Johnson (Larry) Baker; his uncle, Don Johnson; his cousins, Sara, J.R., Elissa, and Kyle; his fiancée, Ellie Starck; her daughters, Zeppelynn and Josselynn, whom he loved dearly; and many other beloved family members and friends.
He was preceded in death by his father, John E. Johnson.
A Celebration of Sean's Life will be held on Thursday, July 16, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at First Presbyterian Church, 310 South University Avenue, Carbondale, Illinois, with Pastor Margaret Anne Overstreet officiating. A reception at the church will immediately follow the service.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Feeding America in Sean's memory. https://give.feedingamerica.org › donate › summer-hunger.
Sean is now one with “the universe” (as he said) and at Peace.

06/18/2026

Skipper Eugene Nimmo – DeSoto
Skip Eugene Nimmo, 80, of DeSoto, Illinois, passed away peacefully at his residence on June 17, 2026, surrounded by his loving wife and family.
He was born on December 21, 1945, in Grand Tower, Illinois, the son of the late Edwin Lavern and Rosemary (Clover) Nimmo.
Skip proudly served his country in the United States Marine Corps during the Vietnam War and was honored to have defended the nation he loved. He was a man of many talents and enjoyed spending his time fishing, hunting, and tinkering in his garage. Known for his ability to fix just about anything, Skipper was always willing to lend a helping hand to family, friends, and neighbors. While he enjoyed many hobbies throughout his life, nothing brought him greater joy than the love of his wife, children, grandchildren, and extended family.
On August 13, 1977, he married the love of his life, Carol Ann “Sis” Tomich, in DeSoto, Illinois. Together they shared 48 wonderful years of marriage, building a life centered on love, family, and unwavering devotion to one another.
Left to cherish his memory are his beloved wife, Carol Nimmo of DeSoto; his children Alisia and Tim Stevens, Mark (Jennifer) Nimmo of Delphi Falls, New York, Skipper Nimmo of Elko, Nevada, and Tracy (Stephen) Thomson of Golden, Colorado; his grandchildren, Cody (Sarah), Keegan, Karsten, Kholie, Skipper III, Awstin, Ricky, and Autumn; six great-grandchildren; his brothers, Mark (Kay) Nimmo of DeSoto and Bob Nimmo of Christopher; his sister, Kathy (Buck) Miller of Christopher; and many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.
The family would also like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to Zipper, Shelly, Cheryl, and Julie for their kindness, support, and friendship throughout the years and especially during Skipper's time of need.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Edwin and Rosemary Nimmo; his brother, Roy Nimmo; his father-in-law and mother-in-law, Bud and Bonnie Reeves; and his sister-in-law, Sharon Daron.
In honor of Skip's service and patriotism, memorial contributions may be made to the Wounded Warrior Project, 1120 G Street NW, Suite 700, Washington, DC 20005.

Graveside services with Military Honors will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, August 15, 2026, at De Soto City Cemetery. Following the service, family and friends are invited to a Celebration of Skip's Life from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at Backwoods, 444 Lavern Road, De Soto, Illinois 62924. Please bring lawn chairs.

Walker Funeral Home and Crematory of Southern Illinois has been entrusted with arrangements.

05/29/2026

Connie L. Rogers – Carbondale

With profound love and gratitude for a life beautifully lived, we announce the passing of Connie L. Rogers, who entered eternal rest peacefully on Wednesday, May 27, 2026, at the remarkable age of 101.

Connie was born on April 11, 1925, in Benton, Illinois, the daughter of the late Ray and Thelma Matilda (Squibb) Akin. Tragically, Connie lost her mother when she was only one year old, but she was lovingly raised by Maggie and Johnny Akin, who cared for her as their own and provided her with a foundation of love and family that she carried throughout her life.

Connie's 101 years were filled with faith, devotion, kindness, and an unwavering love for her family. On March 21, 1948, she married the love of her life, William J. “Bill” Rogers. Together they built a beautiful life and shared more than 51 wonderful years of marriage until Bill's passing on June 2, 1999.

To her family, she was much more than a mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother—she was Nana. Though it began as a cherished family title, Connie became Nana to everyone she met. Whether related by blood or not, she had a remarkable way of making people feel welcomed, valued, and loved. Her home, her heart, and her arms were always open. To know Connie was to know kindness, warmth, and unconditional love, and her gentle spirit will be remembered by all whose lives she touched.

Connie enjoyed life's simple pleasures and the friendships she made along the way. Wednesdays were reserved for card club, where she enjoyed playing canasta with friends, Thursdays were for getting her hair done, and Fridays were spent with her Friday night dinner group at Midland Inn, where laughter, stories, and companionship were always shared. She never turned down a good margarita and had a special fondness for fried fish, especially when enjoyed among family and friends. She loved watching the cardinals and yellow finches that visited her yard, finding joy in their beauty and the simple reminder to slow down and appreciate life's blessings. Connie worked for many years at Sears, where she built lasting friendships and eventually retired. She valued hard work, cherished her friendships, and found joy in spending time with the people she loved.

Connie treasured every moment spent with her family. Her grandchildren and great-grandchildren were truly her pride and joy. She delighted in watching generations grow around her and took great pride in their accomplishments and happiness. One of her greatest joys was preparing candy bags for her great-grandchildren at every visit, a tradition they eagerly looked forward to and one that perfectly reflected her generous and loving heart. Her legacy of love, kindness, and compassion will live on in each of them.

She is survived by her loving daughter, Patty (Randy) Gibson; grandchildren, Joey Robbins (Jessica Southworth) and Shelbi (Wes) Smith; great-grandchildren, Grace Robbins (Cace Cook), Lane, Harrison, Russell, and Matilda Smith; and those who lovingly knew her as Aunt Connie: Wes and Linda Gibson and kids, and many other beloved family members and dear friends.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Bill Rogers; a brother who was stillborn; her grandson, Ryan Robbins; her special cousin, Sandy Jacquot; Christopher Gibson; and her cherished companions, Buffy I and Buffy II.

Connie's family is especially grateful to the caregivers and staff at The Landings at Reed Station Crossing, who became like an extended family to her. Their kindness, patience, and genuine love enriched her life and brought comfort not only to Connie but to all who loved her. The family will forever be thankful for the exceptional care she received.

Though her family will deeply miss her, they find comfort in knowing that her long and beautiful journey was filled with love, laughter, faith, and the blessing of a life well lived. Connie was truly an incredible Nana—one whose love knew no limits, whose kindness touched countless lives, and whose presence made everyone feel at home. The lessons she taught, the traditions she created, and the love she gave so freely will live on for generations. She will be missed beyond measure and remembered always by those fortunate enough to have known and loved her.

A graveside service will be held on Saturday, June 6, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Murdale Gardens of Memory, with Eric Lam officiating.

Memorial contributions may be made to St. Francis Care, 6228 Country Club Road, Murphysboro, Illinois 62966.

Walker Funeral Home has been entrusted with arrangements.

05/19/2026

Doug B. Swain – Carbondale
With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Doug B. Swain, who passed away peacefully on Saturday, May 16, 2026, at his residence in Carbondale, Illinois.
Doug was born on April 4, 1961, in Carbondale, Illinois, the beloved son of Carlos Keith “Corky” and Karen (Magill) Swain.
Doug dedicated over 30 years of service to Southern Illinois University Carbondale, where he worked until his retirement. He found joy in life’s simple pleasures — sharing conversations with friends over a good cup of coffee, reading history, and taking pride in keeping a beautiful, well-maintained lawn.
Doug was truly one of a kind and a familiar face throughout Carbondale. To know Doug was to know kindness, laughter, and genuine friendship. He never met a stranger and had a remarkable way of making everyone feel welcome. Whether through a conversation, a smile, or simply his presence, Doug brightened the lives of so many people. He touched countless hearts throughout the community and will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him. Those closest to him will always remember his generous spirit, compassionate heart, and the way he could make an ordinary day feel special. He truly had a heart of gold.
Doug is survived by his loving mother, Karen Swain; brothers, Mike Swain and Dale (Suzanne) Swain; nieces, Allison and Angela; nephew, Ethan; along with many dear friends and extended family members who will forever cherish his memory.
He was preceded in death by his father, Carlos Keith “Corky” Swain; his brother, Matt Swain; and his nephew, John Swain.
Visitation will be held Thursday from 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. at Walker Funeral 112 South Poplar Street Carbondale, Illinois.
Memorial donations may be made to: American Cancer Society P.O. Box 6704 Hagerstown, MD 21741.
Walker Funeral Home has been entrusted with arrangements.

05/04/2026

Curtis Thompson Stotlar

A lifelong pianist, Curtis Thompson Stotlar, 80, died in his sleep on April 8, 2026, at Saber Group Homes in Thiensville, Wisc.

He was born June 2, 1945, to his parents Raymond C. Stotlar Sr. and Helen Thompson Stotlar in St. Louis, MO.

He was preceded in death by his parents; two older sisters, Kristin Stotlar Sisulak and Karen (Ticker) Stotlar; younger brother John (Jack) M. Stotlar; and nephew Andrew Thompson Sisulak. Curtis is survived by younger brother Raymond (Dude) C. Stotlar Jr. (Debbie) of Carbondale and brother-in-law Stephen A. Sisulak of Carbondale. He is also survived by niece Karen Sisulak of Carbondale; nephews Guy Sisulak (Lori) of Carterville and Christopher Sisulak of Carbondale; and cousins Connie Stotlar of Carbondale and David Stotlar of Windsor, Colo.

Stotlar began playing the piano at age 3 and started serious study at age 11 with the eminent American composer Roy Harris and Southern Illinois University music professor Steven Barwick. His talents received early recognition at the National Music Camp, Interlochen, Mich., where at age 14, he composed and orchestrated a piano concerto, which later won him the Interlochen Press Composition Prize. He also performed on NBC’s Today Show with Dave Garroway in New York City in his early teens.

Stotlar earned a Bachelor's Degree of Music from Eastman School of Music, where he studied with Frank Glazer and Eugene List. In Rochester, N.Y., he won the Paderewski Award from the Polish Arts Group. His studies continued at the Juilliard School in New York as a student of Beveridge Webster and earned a Master's Degree in music. With degrees from the Juilliard and Eastman Schools, Curtis continued his piano studies in Europe with Michelangeli and Kempff, composition with Messaien and Boulanger. He has taught at Vassar College and was one of the few foreign nationals to teach in the French conservatory system at the Conservatoire de Neuilly and the Rencontres Musicales de la Plaine de Versailles where he was also “President d’Honneur He also received additional awards for Music conferred from the Peabody Conservatory of Johns Hopkins University.

Stotlar's first piano teaching roles were at Vassar College and SIU, and later at Juilliard, the French conservatory system and the Wisconsin Conservatory of Music in Milwaukee. Upon moving to Paris, Stotlar's music studies continued with Nadia Boulanger and piano with Wilhelm Kempff, Philippe Entremount and Robert Casadesus. He was awarded for two consecutive years the Woolley Scholarship for performing musicians and artists from the American Foundation of the University of Paris. He taught at the Wisconsin Conservatory from 1999 until his retirement.

He had performed throughout Europe, Africa and Asia as a concert pianist and soloist for the U.S. State Department, as well as on many national radio and television networks on four continents. Stotlar also was the first American to play for integrated audiences throughout South Africa. His repertoire included the complete piano sonatas of Beethoven in seven recitals and Great Music for Piano from Haydyn to Present in 12. He also performed the complete piano works of DeBussy in a series and more than 20 all-Chopin programs.

Among his accolades: "Musicians of his calibre can bring nations together for the language of music is universal," Patriot Magazine, New Delhi, India.

Besides his musical studies, Stotlar earned a second Master's degree in cinema from the University of Paris-Sorbonne. It was his family performances of movie and television theme songs for "Name that Tune" matches that received the highest applause and his home title as "Jeopardy" and "Hi IQ" champion. A favorite family memory is of Stotlar playing dueling grand pianos with his mother, Helen.

Cremation services were provided by Jelacic Funeral Home in Milwaukee. There will be no visitation. His cremains will be at Oakland cemetery with a private graveside family service being provided by Walker’s Funeral Home.

In lieu of flowers, the family request that any considered donations be directed to a favorite charity of their liking in Curtis’s memory.