Pitchford Funeral Home

06/08/2026

Gary Lynn Cooperider

Wood River:

Gary Lynn Cooperider, 72, passed away at 10:36am on Sunday, June 7, 2026, at Barnes – Jewish Hospital. He was born on August 13, 1953, the son of the late Erma (Wintjen) Cooperider. He married the former Debbie Morgan on April 30, 1981, in Wood River, and she preceded him in death on May 2, 2011. Survivors include two daughters and a son in law: Erica and Jason Riedisser of Rosewood Heights, Morgan Cooperider of Bonita Springs, Florida, two grandsons: Ethan Riedisser, Cooper Rider Riedisser, his longtime companion: Gina Miller of Auburn, Illinois, and many other extended family and friends.

Gary was employed at Olin Wi******er for over thirty - five years and retired on August 31, 2015. He loved camping, travelling, sports, going to games, gardening, and spending time with his family, especially his grandson: Cooper.

Gary was selfless, funny, and truly the life of the party. He was the kind of person who would drive your orange cat to Florida, volunteer to supervise a field trip, or spend hours helping you with yard work. Whether family, friends, neighbors, or strangers, Gary always showed up when he was needed. His positive attitude and kind spirit will be greatly missed.

In celebration of his life, visitation will be from 4pm to 6pm on Thursday, June 11, 2026, at Pitchford Funeral Home. Following visitation and in accordance with his wishes, cremation rites will be accorded. Private burial will be at Noble Cemetery in Otterville, Illinois.

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06/06/2026

Jimmy Ray Garrett

Jimmy Ray Garrett, 82, formerly of Worden, Illinois, passed away on the afternoon of June 4, 2026, after a lengthy illness whilst surrounded by the love of his family.

Ray—as he was affectionately known to his loved ones—was born on June 9, 1943, in Ardeola, Missouri, to Bessie Lee Roy and D. H. Garrett. From an early age, he developed the strong work ethic, determination, and particular craftsmanship that would define his life.

On July 9, 1962, he married Janet Ruckman in Meadowbrook, Illinois. Their marriage was a remarkable partnership that spanned nearly 64 years and was built on love, dedication, and unwavering commitment to family.

He proudly served his country in the United States Air Force from 1962 to 1966 and later served in the Air Force Reserves from 1966 to 1968. Following his military service, he worked for McDonnell Douglas before pursuing his entrepreneurial dream and establishing County Tool & Die and Gartech Manufacturing.

Over a career that lasted six decades, he became known as a skilled machinist, inventive rebuilder, and businessman. He developed patented machine parts and traveled the world for his work. Those who knew him admired not only his technical skill and ingenuity but also his willingness to tackle any challenge with determination and creativity, as well as his readiness to help others.

Away from work, his greatest joy was his family. He cherished time spent with those he loved and created countless memories through camping trips, travel adventures, and family gatherings. A true craftsman at heart, he built the family home with his own hands—a symbol of the dedication, care, and pride he brought to everything he did. He was also a member of Enjoy Church in Alton, Illinois.

Ray is survived by his beloved wife, Jan Garrett; his children, Julie (Tom) McAllister, Jason Garrett, and Anne (Mike) Frosh; his cherished grandchildren, Megan, Kristen, Evelyn, and Ethan; along with many extended family members and dear friends whose lives were enriched by knowing him.

He was preceded in death by his daughter, Angelia Sue Garrett; his parents, Bessie Lee and D. H. Garrett; and all of his brothers and sisters.

Ray's life was one of service, hard work, innovation, faith, and love. Whether he was serving his country, building a business, constructing a home, or spending time with those he loved, he approached every endeavor with dedication and purpose. His legacy lives on through the family he cherished, the lives he touched, the trees he planted, the equipment he rebuilt, and the example he set for future generations.

He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.

Visitation and funeral services will be held on Tuesday, June 9th from 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m. at Pitchford Funeral Home in Wood River, Illinois.

Burial will be held immediately following at Rose Lawn Memory Gardens in Bethalto, Illinois.

Memorials may be made to conservation charities, veterans organizations, or by planting a tree in his honor.

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06/04/2026

Mariah Rose Fearn, 32, passed away unexpectedly at 7:56am on Monday, June 1, 2026, at home. Mariah was born on August 21, 1993, in Alton. She was the daughter of Logan Fearn, Sharon Garrett, and Amanda Fearn.

Mariah is survived by her daughter: Lovlee Rose, two brothers: Michael Spatafora, Devon McBride, a sister: Kaitlin Fearn, a niece: Gabrielle Spatafora, a nephew: Lane Spatafora, along with many aunts and uncles.

She was preceded in death by her twin babies: Eli and Jazzy Fearn, their father: Brett, a brother: Anthony Spatafora, her grandparents: Barney and Rose Hamby, Wally and Gloria Fearn, and her dad: Tommy Garrett.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date.

06/04/2026

Mariah Rose Fearn

Alton:

Mariah Rose Fearn, 32, passed away unexpectedly at 7:56am on Monday, June 1, 2026, at home. Mariah was born on August 21, 1993, in Alton. She was the daughter of Logan Fearn, Sharon Garrett, and Amanda Fearn.

Mariah is survived by her daughter: Lovlee Rose, two brothers: Michael Spatafora, Devon McBride, a sister: Kaitlin Fearn, a niece: Gabrielle Spatafora, a nephew: Lane Spatafora, along with many aunts and uncles.

She was preceded in death by her twin babies: Eli and Jazzy Fearn, their father: Brett, a brother: Anthony Spatafora, her grandparents: Barney and Rose Hamby, Wally and Gloria Fearn, and her dad: Tommy Garrett.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date.

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06/02/2026

Christopher "Chris" Davis

Christopher “Chris” Michael Davis, 43, passed away at 11:51 a.m. on Saturday, May 30, 2026, at St. Louis University Hospital, surrounded by family, after giving us all one final lesson in stubbornness. He fought hard, loved hard, laughed loudly, and, true to form, kept annoying his little sisters until the end.

Chris was born on November 10, 1982, in Alton, the son of Michael Davis and the late Toni Renee (Stahlhut) Davis. He attended Civic Memorial High School in Bethalto, where he excelled academically and athletically, playing football, basketball, and baseball throughout his high school career before graduating in 2001. Chris then joined Bricklayers Local #8 of Illinois, where he remained employed throughout his career.

Chris was many things: hilarious, charismatic, occasionally impossible, and the kind of person who could walk into a room and instantly become the most entertaining person there. He loved St. Louis sports, had a gift for making people laugh (whether they wanted to or not), and enjoyed picking on his younger sisters, nieces, and cousins – a role he treated like a lifelong professional commitment.

Chris was especially proud of his bonus daughter, Jazlyn. They beat all the Call of Duty games together, and he loved showing off her artistic talents and creations.

Chris had a knack for gaining publicity, and his elaborate snow creations made The Telegraph on several occasions. In what may be one of the most “Chris” stories of all time, he once attended a Cardinals World Series celebration with his lifelong friends, Micah Redman and Josh Budde, dressed as nuns because they had the “faith” to help the Cardinals win the World Series – a stunt that resulted in them being featured on Fox 2 News.

Behind all the jokes and sarcasm was a huge heart. Chris loved deeply, protected fiercely, and showed up for people in ways that mattered.

There are no words big enough to describe the loss felt by everyone who knew him, but when we remember Chris, we will remember the funny stories, the ridiculous one-liners, the contagious laugh, the chaos, the loyalty, and the love.

We already miss him terribly. Somewhere, we’re sure he’s still talking trash, making inappropriate jokes, and finding a way to put his nieces up to no good, and honestly, we wouldn’t expect anything less.

In addition to his father, Mike Davis of Cottage Hills, Chris is survived by his sisters, brothers-in-law, and their children: Mandy and Drew Marquis (Alyssa and Everly) of Godfrey; Carrie and Cody Atchetee (Marshall and Tinzlee) of Houston, Texas; Megan and Nick Womack (Mady and Luka) of Van Alstyne, Texas; his grandparents, Ron and Janis Stahlhut and Sandy Clark; aunts and uncles, Jodie; Wade (Meryl); Nicole; John; Kim; Kelly; Jimmy; Dee Ann; Janet; Linda; Karen (Steve); Jeannie (David); Joe (Tammy); Patti (Steve); Susie (Mark); Tommy; Timmy (Laura); as well as many cousins and friends. Chris is also survived by his bonus daughter, Jazlyn Carroll, and her mother, Jessica Carroll; and, of course, his loyal dog, Kuma, and his cat, Princess.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Toni (Stahlhut) Davis; his grandparents, John Clark and Jim and Elvera Davis; four uncles, Johnny and Danny Davis, Tim Cox, and Sam Titsworth; his aunt, Beth Ann Davis; and his cousin, Melissa Titsworth.

In celebration of his life, visitation will be held from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. on Thursday, June 4, 2026, at Pitchford Funeral Home in Wood River.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Amare, an independent, non-profit Recovery Community Organization (RCO) serving Madison & St. Clair counties and led by people in recovery from substance use disorders, along with their families, friends, and allies. Donations will be accepted at the funeral home, or can be made directly on their website: Make a Donation | Amare | BetterWorld

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06/02/2026

Michael Carpenter, 50, went to be with the Lord Jesus Christ at 11:20pm on Friday, May 29, 2026, at his residence surrounded by his family. Born May 11, 1976, in Alton, Illinois, he was the son of Sheila (Stairs) Carpenter of Eldred, Illinois, and the late Dennis Carpenter. He was also blessed by the love and care of his stepmother, Tina Carpenter, who survives. He married the former Lauren Lay on October 16, 2021, and she survives. Other survivors include a son and a daughter, Austin Carpenter of South Roxana and Lettie Will of Caseyville, a brother and two sisters: Don and Angie Carpenter of Eldred, Staci Coles of South Roxana, and Sara Dixon of Roxana, and many nieces, nephews, and beloved extended family and friends.

Michael graduated from Roxana High School in 1994. Following graduation, he entered the United States Air Force and was stationed in Montana (which he loved), where he spent eight years before returning home to southern Illinois. He worked in many different fields before settling into being self-employed and building a life with Lauren and Lettie in what they called “the farmhouse.” He was devoted to his family.

Michael loved to serve others; especially his family and his church family. Michael spent countless hours barbecuing, smoking meats, hosting his church men's group, and serving those around him. He also loved the outdoors, having spent the majority of his life hunting, fishing, and working with his hands on his home and with his family.

Most importantly, Michael loved Jesus Christ. The Lord graciously saved Michael in 2022 and he followed his Lord in baptism on November 13 of that same year. Michael was a living example of a life transformed by the Gospel of Grace; he was not a perfect man, but he was a faithful man. In his final years and days, Michael’s greatest desire was to spend time with his family and bring glory to the Lord Jesus Christ who paid the insurmountable debt he owed and gave him His righteousness, by faith. Praise God!

“Well done, good and faithful servant…Enter into the joy of your Master” (Mt. 25:21).

In celebration of his life, visitation will be from 9am until time of funeral services at 11am on Friday, June 5, 2026, at Pitchford Funeral Home. His brother, Pastor Don Carpenter will officiate. Burial with full military honors will follow at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery.

Memorials are suggested to Damascus Road Fellowship, 1485 Frank Scott Pkwy W, Belleville, Illinois, 62223 and will also be accepted at the funeral home.

05/27/2026

Shelly Ann Hatalla

Girard:

Shelly Ann Hatalla, 57, passed away at 6:35pm on Monday, May 25, 2026, at Memorial Hospital in Springfield. She was born on March 15, 1969, in Taylorville, the daughter of Steven F. Bishop of Girard and the late Beverly A. (Pruitt) Bishop. She married Michael Todd Hatalla on June 14, 1986, in Virden, and he survives. Other survivors include a sister: Shawn (Michael Higginson) Cox, two brothers and sisters in law: Shane (Carmen) Bishop, Shad (Michelle) Bishop, her nieces: Kati (Brian) Hoffman, Savannah (Jeremiah Hart) Bishop, Audrey Bishop, her nephews: Kyle (Ashley) Cox, Matt Eyer, Hunter Bishop, Colby Bishop, Andrew Wolfe, her great nieces and nephews: Mason Faber, Mychaela Faber, Marie Cox, Miah Hart, Ambrose Hoffman, and many other extended and friends.

Cremation rites will be accorded.

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05/27/2026

Wood River:

Judy Ann (Hafner) Presley, 75, passed away at 6:30am on Tuesday, May 26, 2026, at Barnes – Jewish Hospital. Judy was born in Cape Girardeau, Missouri, on January 25, 1951, to parents Floyd and Ione (Stoddard) Hafner. She married Bob “Mongo” Presley on April 7, 1972, at the Wood River Assembly of God Church. She was a 1969 graduate of East Alton – Wood River High School. Judy worked at Western Southern Life Insurance for forty years in the clerical department until her retirement in 2016. Judy enjoyed travelling, camping, scrapbooking, and spending time with her kids and grandchildren. Judy’s favorite pastime was playing pinochle with family members.

She was preceded in death by her husband, her stillborn daughter: Cindy, her daughter: Rebecca (Presley) Bell, son in law: Kevin Bell, her father: Floyd Hafner, her mother: Ione Valdes, her step father: Jose Valdes, her brother: Jack Atchley, sister in law: Ruth Atchley, her sister: Janet Thompson, brother in law: Granville Thompson, a sister: Betty Smith, brother in law: Glen Smith, mother in law: Helen Presley, father in law: Hubert Presley, a sister in law: Louise Farley, sister in law: Darlene Dennison, sister in law: Marlene Weller, and brother in law: Gary Weller.

Judy is survived by her son: Timothy Presley and his partner: Sherry Patton of Wood River, her granddaughter: Allison Presley of Bethalto, Illinois, her grandson: Austin Bell, a sister in law: Linda Reed of Alton, her brother in law: Hubert Presley, sister in law: Judy Presley, a brother in law: Garry Rush and sister in law: Evelyn Rush of Grafton, Illinois, brother in law: Kevin Woolsey and sister in law: Lorie Woolsey of Jerseyville, and many nieces, nephews, and other extended family and friends.

In celebration of her life, visitation will be from 4pm to 7pm on Monday, June 1, 2026, at Pitchford Funeral Home in Wood River. Funeral services will be held at 10:30am on Tuesday, June 2, 2026, at the funeral home. Burial will follow at Rose Lawn Memory Gardens in Bethalto.

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

05/26/2026

Judy Presley

Wood River:

Judy Ann (Hafner) Presley, 75, passed away at 6:30am on Tuesday, May 26, 2026, at Barnes – Jewish Hospital. Judy was born in Cape Girardeau, Missouri, on January 25, 1951, to parents Floyd and Ione (Stoddard) Hafner. She married Bob “Mongo” Presley on April 7, 1972, at the Wood River Assembly of God Church. She was a 1969 graduate of East Alton – Wood River High School. Judy worked at Western Southern Life Insurance for forty years in the clerical department until her retirement in 2016. Judy enjoyed travelling, camping, scrapbooking, and spending time with her kids and grandchildren. Judy’s favorite pastime was playing pinochle with family members.

She was preceded in death by her husband, her stillborn daughter: Cindy, her daughter: Rebecca (Presley) Bell, son in law: Kevin Bell, her father: Floyd Hafner, her mother: Ione Valdes, her step father: Jose Valdes, her brother: Jack Atchley, sister in law: Ruth Atchley, her sister: Janet Thompson, brother in law: Granville Thompson, a sister: Betty Smith, brother in law: Glen Smith, mother in law: Helen Presley, father in law: Hubert Presley, a sister in law: Louise Farley, sister in law: Darlene Dennison, sister in law: Marlene Weller, and brother in law: Gary Weller.

Judy is survived by her son: Timothy Presley and his partner: Sherry Patton of Wood River, her granddaughter: Allison Presley of Bethalto, Illinois, her grandson: Austin Bell, a sister in law: Linda Reed of Alton, her brother in law: Hubert Presley, sister in law: Judy Presley, a brother in law: Garry Rush and sister in law: Evelyn Rush of Grafton, Illinois, brother in law: Kevin Woolsey and sister in law: Lorie Woolsey of Jerseyville, and many nieces, nephews, and other extended family and friends.

In celebration of her life, visitation will be from 4pm to 7pm on Monday, June 1, 2026, at Pitchford Funeral Home in Wood River. Funeral services will be held at 10:30am on Tuesday, June 2, 2026, at the funeral home. Burial will follow at Rose Lawn Memory Gardens in Bethalto.

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

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05/25/2026