October 8, 2026

A sampling of headlines in this week’s Sidell Reporter. To read the stories that go with this, plus many more articles in this week’s issue, subscribe today to read the Reporter in print and/or online. For details click here.

Vance Township finally has ownership of Davis Cemetery

Catlin Village to oil and chip selected streets on Thursday

Jamaica High Class of 1976 celebrates 50th

Storm dominate Momence 54-14 on Homecoming

Boys advance to golf sectionals by two strokes over BHRA

Wells wins Twilight race by full minute

OSF soccer adds four more Ws to improve 11-8 overall

OSF runners  compete in  Tuff Mudder

Obituaries


    FRANKLIN E. “DUKE” KIRBY, 81, of Fairmount, passed away at 7:50 a.m. Wed., Sept.30, 2026, at OSF Sacred Heart Medical Center.
    Duke was born March 18, 1945, in Danville, the son of Harold “Peck” and Edith Allen Goodwin Kirby. He married Patsy Crumbley on Feb. 9, 1968, in Catlin. She survives.  Other survivors include his children, Shane (Lori) Kirby, Shawn Kirby and Shelly Toppe, all of Fairmount; two sisters, Glona (George) Howe and Karen (Dave) Ferber, all of Fairmount; six grandchildren, Chelsey Kirby, Dalton Toppe, Madison Kirby, Mackenzie (Quincy) Roberts, Brittney Kirby, and Ethan Kirby; and Grandpa’s companion, Harley.  He was preceded in death by his parents and two brothers, Oran and Bert Kirby.
    Duke was a veteran. He retired from General Motors after 25 years of service. He loved hunting, shooting guns, and watching sports. He loved John Wayne and enjoyed listening to old country music. He enjoyed being outdoors and drinking beer.
    As per his wishes he will be cremated. There will be a celebration of life held at a later date.


    CATHY S. JENKINS  went to be with her Lord and Savior at 1:30 a.m. on Fri., Sept. 25, 2026, at her home in Georgetown. Cathy served as Vermilion County Clerk from 2014 to May 2025.
    Cathy was born Feb. 6, 1953, to Robert and Garnett (Hensley) Brookshier. She was the middle of three children, older brother, Steve and younger sister, Louann. She married Pete Jenkins Dec. 29, 1978.
   Above all else, she was a woman of deep and unwavering faith and her faith was the foundation of her life. Cathy faithfully served at The Olivet Church of the Nazarene for nearly 35 years from serving on the church board, and playing the piano every Sunday. Her love of music and worship led her to sing in a Southern Gospel group with two close friends, Martha Buchanan and Judy Griffith. Together, they recorded two CDs in Nashville.
   She treasured time with family and friends, especially around a table playing cards or board games. Anyone who knew Cathy knew she had quite the competitive streak.
    Cathy graduated Lake-view Nursing and began her career at Lakeview Hospital in 1979. She began working for Blue Cross Blue Shield in 1986, starting in an entry-level position and becoming a regional manager.  After 24 years, she retired and dedicated herself to public service. She served on numerous city, fire, and ambulance boards before being elected Vermilion County Clerk.
   She found joy in simple things–good music, good food, good friends, and lots of laughter. Cathy is survived by her husband, Pete; son, Jeff (Kara) Miller; daughter, Janna (Roy) Durkee; eight grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; and nieces and nephew.
    A celebration service will begin at 3 p.m. Sat., Oct. 10 at Grace Community Church, 1569 King St. Tilton with a celebration of life gathering following services until 5:00 p.m.

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