News Headlines & Chapel Report - 9/29/25

The Pike County, Illinois Sheriff’s Department announced Friday that its main phone line, 217-285-5011, is currently out of service. Until the issue is resolved, residents are asked to use 217-285-4471 for all non-emergency assistance. Officials emphasized that 911 remains available for emergencies and urged the public to share the information to ensure community members are aware of the temporary change.

Two Louisiana, Missouri residents were arrested after police, with help from the Pike County Sheriff’s Office, executed a narcotics search warrant at 311 North 6th Street on Thursday and seized more than 50 grams of methamphetamine. Stephanie A. Bryant, 56, faces felony charges including drug trafficking, possession of a controlled substance, and possession of drug paraphernalia, while Charles R. Marshall, 47, faces felony charges for drug possession and paraphernalia. Both were booked into the Pike County Jail on $50,000 cash-only bond set by Judge Milan Berry. Police said the operation is part of a broader effort to combat narcotics activity in the community, with more enforcement actions expected.

The Scott County Sheriff’s Office issued a temporary “stay in place” order for rural residents along Illinois Route 106 west of the Hillview Blacktop on Saturday afternoon during a search for a suspect believed to be armed and driving a stolen vehicle. Authorities warned residents to secure their cars and avoid approaching the individual, who allegedly stole a vehicle from another county and nearly collided with several motorists during a pursuit. The vehicle was later discovered abandoned in a cornfield, and the suspect was taken into custody around 4:10 p.m. The man, booked as “John Doe” after refusing to provide identification, is being held at the Greene County Jail as investigators work with other agencies to confirm his identity. More details are expected Monday.

Missouri Gov. Mike Kehoe has declared a drought emergency through Dec. 1 as nearly 90% of the state’s agricultural land faces drought conditions, affecting about 5 million residents. The declaration allows farmers to be reimbursed for expenses such as hay and grass seed, offering relief during a challenging harvest season. Farmers who have faced both floods and drought this year, say the extreme weather swings are putting significant stress on livestock and crops. Kehoe noted that one rainstorm won’t solve the problem and said he may restart the Missouri Drought Commission to further address the crisis.

Today's Chapel Report:

Marion F. Phillips, 93, formerly of Detroit, IL, passed away September 26, 2025, at her son’s home in Lebanon, IL. Born July 10, 1932, in Chambersburg to Francis and Myra (Dennis) Leahr, she married John R. Phillips on March 21, 1954, at Detroit Christian Church, and he preceded her in death in 2019. A Pittsfield High School graduate and Lincoln Christian College attendee. She served as an election judge, on the Detroit Town Board, and was active in Detroit Christian Church and the Silver Tea Group. Survivors include her four children, Jack, David, Barb, and Sarah; many grandchildren and great-grandchildren; sister Kathleen Leahr; and sister-in-law Betty Bradshaw. Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Monday, Sept. 29, at Niebur Funeral Home in Pittsfield with burial at Blue River Cemetery near Detroit. Visitation will be held one hour prior. Memorials may be made to Detroit Christian Church or Blue River Cemetery.

Jane E. Ransom, 78, of Pittsfield, IL, passed away at her home on September 27, 2025, surrounded by family and friends. She was born April 12, 1947, at Illini Community Hospital to Dr. William and Betty Kraybill and married Paul Ransom on August 27, 1967; he preceded her in death in 2024. A 1965 graduate of Pittsfield High School, Jane worked alongside her husband in business and became the first woman to serve on the Pittsfield Park Board. Survivors include daughters Dee Dee (Doug) Gellerman, Kim Brown, and Kris (Gideon) Smith; six grandchildren; several nieces and nephews; and other family members and friends. Honoring her wishes, no services will be held. Memorials may be made to Blessing Hospice. Niebur Funeral Home in Pittsfield is assisting the family.

Marcella M. Owens, 96, of Elsberry, MO, formerly of Paynesville, passed away September 26, 2025, at the Elsberry Health Care Center. Born August 13, 1929, in Elsberry to Raymond E. and Sarah Edna (Admire) Mills, she was a 1946 graduate of Elsberry High School and spent 33 years working as a cashier and teller at the Bank of Lincoln County. She married John Henry Owens, Jr. in 1974, and they shared 46 years together until his passing in 2020. She is survived by her son, Harlan Scherrer of Cuba, MO; two grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; four stepchildren and their families; and many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. Graveside services will be held at 2 p.m. Monday, Sept. 29, 2025, at Elsberry City Cemetery with Rev. Jeff Gordon officiating. Memorials may be made to Elsberry Holiness Church in care of Carter-Ricks Funeral Home, which is handling arrangements.