News Headli

News Headlines and Chapel Report — January 14, 2026

News Headlines

Bowling Green, Missouri Police Chief Bennie Church resignsBowling Green Police Chief Bennie Church has announced his resignation after a brief tenure. Church, who became interim chief in June 2025 and was officially named chief in November, said his decision was based on a life-changing job opportunity for him and his family. City officials confirmed Church accepted a more lucrative position and, on the advice of the city attorney, declined additional comment on the search for a new police chief. Church emphasized that his decision is unrelated to any ongoing matters within the department.

Mail delivery delays affecting utility bills in Pittsfield, IllinoisCity of Pittsfield officials say residents are experiencing delays in mail delivery that are affecting when some utility bills are received. The city notes it has no control over postal delivery times and encourages customers concerned about late bills to consider auto pay or email billing. Utility bills remain due on the 15th with a grace period through the 20th, and no additional grace period will be offered due to mail delays. The slowdown may be tied to changes in United States Postal Service mail processing that took effect on Christmas Eve.

Pike County, Missouri launches Text to 911Pike County 911 has launched a new Text to 911 service, giving residents an alternative way to contact emergency services when they are unable to safely make a voice call or have hearing or speech challenges. The system was tested with all major cell phone carriers in the area and is intended for real emergencies only, officials say.

Street closures planned on South Madison Street in PittsfieldTemporary closures are scheduled on South Madison Street due to road work. On Wednesday, January 14, the street will be closed from West Clare to West Crane beginning at 9 a.m. On Thursday, January 15, the closure will run from just north of West Clare to West Crane, also beginning at 9 a.m., and will remain in place until work is completed. Motorists are encouraged to use alternate routes.

Senior Homestead Exemption renewals underway in Pike County, IllinoisThe Pike County Supervisor of Assessments Office says 2026 Senior Homestead Exemption renewal forms have been mailed. Residents age 65 and older who are not already enrolled are encouraged to contact or visit the office for assistance.

Chapel Report

Eida Fae Johnson, age 88, of Columbia, Missouri, and formerly of Louisiana, Missouri, passed away January 8, 2026. She is survived by her daughter, Lori; grandsons, Kyle and David; great-grandchildren, Logan, Jackson, and Elise; and a sister. Funeral services were held at Memorial Funeral Home in Columbia.

David William Hallows, age 70, of Curryville, Missouri, passed away January 8, 2026. He is survived by his children Amanda Hallows Thomas, Crista Hallows, Jodi McPike, and Jamie Hallows; nine grandchildren; siblings; and extended family and friends. Funeral services were held at Bibb-Veach Funeral Home in Bowling Green, with burial at Fairview Cemetery in Louisiana, Missouri.

Jeanett Palmer, age 92, of Elsberry, Missouri, passed away January 6, 2026. She is survived by her children Debi Bowser, Daniel Palmer, Donna Hammon, Derrick Palmer, and Dedric Palmer, along with grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Funeral services were held at Carter-Ricks Funeral Home in Elsberry, with burial at Elsberry City Cemetery.

Carolyn Jane Dean, age 82, of Barry, Illinois, passed away January 8, 2026. She is survived by her son Kent Dean, daughter Elizabeth Dean, grandchildren Lincoln and Warren Dean, and extended family. Funeral services were held at the Barry United Methodist Church, with interment at Griggsville Cemetery in Griggsville, Illinois.

Marvin “Mike” Powers Jr., age 57, of Elsberry, Missouri, passed away January 10, 2026. He is survived by his wife Marsha, stepson Cory, and extended family and friends. No formal funeral services are planned at this time; a celebration of life will be held at a later date.