Memorial Contributions
If you have lost a loved one from cancer, a wonderful way to honor their memory is to make a memorial contribution to Chemo Buddies.
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As you know, enduring chemo is one of the toughest battles one can face. Your contribution enables us to come alongside those still in the fight and support them. 100% of your contributions will be used locally to support those still in the fight. We do not receive funding from the locations where we serve, but are a community led movement to help others going through the journey we have been through. All donations are tax deductible as we are a 501(c)3 charity.

If you are making funeral arrangements and wish to make Chemo Buddies your charity of choice, we are happy to provide all donors with personalized thank you notes and provide you with the information of all donations received. For more information, contact Jill Kincaid at info@mychemobuddies.com

Patricia Joan Lodato

Patricia Joan (Brooks) Lodato of Evansville, age 74, loving wife, mother, and grandmother, passed away peacefully at home on Friday, December 31, 2021, following a lengthy illness. Patti was born on April 9, 1947, in Beech Grove, Indiana, the only child of Joseph Brooks and Mida (Cruft) Brooks.


Patti attended Franklin Community High School in Franklin, Indiana, where she was valedictorian of her graduating class. She attended the University of Evansville, graduating with a degree in English in 1969. In her senior year she was awarded the prestigious Woodrow Wilson Fellowship for graduate study. She earned a master's degree in English Literature at Indiana University, Bloomington in 1970.

Larry Dalton

Larry Dalton, 77, of Mt. Vernon, passed away Tuesday, December 28, 2021 at the Mt. Vernon Nursing and Rehabilitation Center.


Larry was born June 23, 1944 in Albany, Kentucky to the late George and Emma (Bertram) Dalton. He retired from the United States Air Force and at the time of his retirement he was the most decorated serviceman at the Walter Reed National Military Medical Center. Larry was also a member of the Hadi Shrine.


Richard C. "Rick" Mallory

Richard C. "Rick" Mallory, 65, passed away on December 23, 2021 at his home, surrounded by his family, after a courageous battle with cancer.


He was born in Tell City on May 19, 1956, son of Charles and Clara (Ward) Mallory, who preceded him in death.


A graduate of Perry Central High School, he was united in marriage on January 24, 1976 to Peggy Sommer at St. Augustine Catholic Church, where they were both members.


Rick retired after 36 years with the Indiana State Highway Department, as a unit foreman. A true native of Perry County, he enjoyed trapping, hunting and fishing. Rick could often be found in his vegetable gardens and canning with his children. He also enjoyed making maple syrup, going to flea markets and auctions at Dixon's, watching westerns and NASCAR. But, most importantly, Rick loved to spend time with his family and his many friends who were known to refer to him as "Jesus"

David William Frank

David William Frank, 69, of Evansville, Indiana, passed away on Thursday, November 11, 2021 at Ascension St. Vincent.


David was born in Evansville, Indiana on March 28, 1952 to the late William and Maxine (Rodeman) Frank. He graduated from Memorial High School where he played baseball. David was owner and operator of Sam's Pizzeria on the west side of Evansville for many years. He coached Little League for St. Benedict Catholic Church, was an avid golfer, enjoyed bowling, playing clabber and cornhole. David loved his annual excursions with his brothers at the lake and spending time with his family and friends. His welcoming smile and servants heart will be remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Mary Ann Bannwart

Mary Ann Bannwart, 72 of Henderson passed away October 29, 2021 at her home under the care of St. Anthony’s Hospice.


She was born in Evansville to the late Robert Earl and Odelia (Lamble) Crowe on June 24, 1949.


In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her brother-in-law, Jim Bannwart.


Mary Ann was a teacher for Union County School System and also was a substitute teacher in Henderson.  She was a member of Holy Name of Jesus Catholic Church.  She served as the ABA Basketball secretary for over 25 years and was on the Lady Spitfire Golf League at Thunderbolt Golf course and was league champion in 2009.





Daphney Dawn Kerns

Daphney Dawn Kerns, 56, of Norris City, passed away on Tuesday, November 2, 2021. She was born on November 13, 1964, in Kankakee, Illinois, the daughter of Donald and Wanda (Hall) Ritsch.  Daphney married Douglas Dale Kerns on March 8, 1985, and he survives. She worked as a production assistant for Country Financial Insurance Company. Daphney attended Ditney Ridge Baptist Church in Norris City.  She enjoyed painting, repurposing furniture, and spending time at the beach. Daphney loved spending time with family, especially her grandsons.  


      Daphney is survived by her husband, Dale Kerns; her children, Megan (Dustin) Wilson of Carmi, IL. and Matthew Kerns of Norris City; grandchildren, Davyn Lane and Dylan Wilson; a sister, Stephanie (Tracy) Nelson and several cousins, nieces and nephews.  She was preceded in death by her parents.




Saundra Kay Morris

Saundra Kay Morris, 74, of Evansville, passed away Friday, September 24, 2021 at St. Vincent Hospital. She was born March 8, 1947 in Evansville to the late Ruth (Zeller) and Cecil Williams.


Sandy graduated from Reitz Memorial High School in 1965. She earned a Bachelor's Degree and Master's Degree in Theology from Brescia University in Owensboro, KY. Sandy taught at Resurrection Catholic School and Memorial High School, where she retired in 2020. She enjoyed traveling and scrapbooking. Sandy was a loving and wonderful mother and grandmother.




Allen Liggett

Allen was born in Henderson, KY but grew up in Tucson AZ where he graduated from Flowing Wells High School in 1973. He also attended the University of Arizona.


Allen was a very accomplished shooter. He shot matches in the NRA High Power Rifle, NRA Bullseye Matches, The United States Practical Shooting Association (USPSA) Pistol, and USPSA 3 Gun Matches. He was a Certified Range Officer in USPSA. He was Kentucky State Champion in the 3 Gun Match two years in a row. He used to "hold back" at the matches to help encourage some of the younger shooters. Once he took one of his niece's target practicing and she kept missing the bottles. He shot and missed on purpose, then winked and said, "this thing isn't calibrated right, let's try a different gun!"


He was a Certified Mechanic that worked at Central Auto in Clay, Kentucky for 25 years. He helped many by voluntarily fixing cars for free. He was also a very accomplished machinist and gunsmith.




Samantha Chandler

Evansville - Samantha Leigh Chandler, 38, of Evansville, passed away Monday, June 7, 2021 at Deaconess Gateway Hospital. She was born February 12, 1983, in Jonesboro, Georgia, to Andy and Kris (Kostelny) Chandler.


Samantha graduated from Castle High School in 2001. She was a graduate of the University of Southern Indiana where she studied Marketing and Graphic Design. Samantha enjoyed painting.




Susan McDonald

Elberfeld - Susan "Sue" D. (Hiatt) McDonald, 70, of Elberfeld IN. passed away Friday, June 4, 2021 at her home. She was born on January 13, 1951 in Sullivan, IN. Sue was involved with the American Legion Post 351 Auxiliary for many years. She was the Secretary of the Southern Indiana Pool League. Sue enjoyed spending time with her family and attending her grandchildren's many activities.




Peggine Kay Rose

Peggine Kay Rose, 56, of Rockport passed away on Thursday, May 20, 2021.

She was born July 16, 1964, in New Albany.

She was employed at Kight Lumber Company as an Installed Sales Coordinator.

Peggine was preceded in death by her father, James Earl Colwell.




Juanita Hansen

Juanita" Nita" Hansen, age 74, unexpectedly passed away on March 27, 2021 at St. Vincent Hospital in Evansville, IN. She was surrounded by her loving family as she crossed the veil to be met by those who had gone before her. She was a member of St. Clement Catholic Church in Boonville.


Nita was born on July 9, 1946 to Eldon "Bucky" & Irene (Wilson) Bryant in Washington, IN., the third of five children. She attended Boonville High School and went on to earn her cosmetology license. She operated a hair salon out of her home in Lynnville for many years before retiring and moving to Phoenix, Arizona, where she met her husband Roy. She and Roy were happily married for 21 years. After spending several years in Phoenix, she and Roy returned to Indiana, so she could be closer to her children and grandchildren.




Donald E Brown

Donald E. Brown, 88, of Newburgh, passed away Thursday, February 25th, 2021 at River Pointe Health Campus. He was born March 15th, 1932 in Shoals, Indiana to the late Carl L. and Edith (Cannon) Brown.


Don was a graduate of Memorial High School in 1950 and went on to graduate from Lockyear's Business College. He served in the United States Air Force and was a veteran of the Korean War. Retiring from the Air Force Reserves with a rank of E8 Senior Master Sergeant, First Sergeant of the 930th tactical fighter group having served more than 40 years of active and reserve duty; he was awarded the Meritorious Service Medal. Don was employed at Whirlpool as a head operator and in Material Control where he retired after 36 years. He was a long standing and proud charter member of Nativity Catholic Church, current member of Holy Rosary Catholic Church, and a member of the VFW Post 1114. At Nativity, he coached youth baseball where he won numerous championships with Hagan Appliances. He was active in scouting at Nativity as Cub Scout Leader and Scoutmaster for all 5 of his sons. He oversaw many blue & gold banquets, fishing rodeos, and jamborees. An avid runner since 1967, Don ran 32 marathons, the Boston Marathon in 1979, 2 ultra-marathons, one of which was 50 miles and another that was 62.1 miles. During his 52 years at the YMCA (1967-2019) he acquired many lifelong friendships. His passion for running, physical fitness, and his raw grit and determination inspired every person he met along the way.




Donald Frederick Miller

Donald "Don" Frederick Miller, 93, of Evansville, Indiana, passed away on Tuesday, February 23, 2021 at his home surrounded by family.


Don was born in Hatfield, Indiana on August 21, 1927 to the late Fred and Florence (Duley) Miller. He honorably served in the United States Army in the Philippines. Don retired from Guthrie May and Company after 43 years of service as vice president. He was a member of Salem Church of Darmstadt and a lifetime member of the VFW Post 1114. In his earlier years, Don played baseball. With a servant's heart, he enjoyed helping others. Don was a carpenter, building every home he ever lived in and could always be found working outside and gardening. Above all, he loved spending time with his family and will be greatly missed.




Robert Keith Schoonard

Robert Keith Schoonard, 63, of Hatfield, Indiana passed away on Saturday, February 20, 2021 at his childhood home surrounded by his loving family and friends.

Robert was born in Evansville, Indiana on July 3, 1957 to Robert and Audrey Mae (Renshaw) Schoonard.

Robert had worked at Whirlpool in Evansville, Indiana. Robert loved woodworking and Beekeeping. He also enjoyed the outdoors and fishing.

He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Harmon and Olive Renshaw; Clarence and Bertha Schoonard; Beloved dog, Angel.



Elaine Marie Briles

Elaine Marie Briles, 64, passed away peacefully at her home on February 16, 2021. She was born on November 8th, 1956 to Margaret (Elsfelder) Morris and James Morris in Evansville, Indiana.

Elaine was a very energetic, loud, loving, and passionate person. Her biggest passion was the love she had for her friends and family, especially her husband, kids and even more so for her 8 grandchildren. Of her many jobs, Elaine loved being a grandma the most. In her spare time, she loved to crochet, cook, and attend any events that her children or grandchildren took part in.

Elaine served as a Chemo Buddy at Deaconess Cancer Center.



Jill (Sweetin) Heath

Jill Renea (Sweetin) Heath, 42, of Carmi, passed away on Wednesday, January 27, 2021. She was born on February 26, 1978, the daughter of Doy and Donna (Leedy) Sweetin. Jill graduated from Carmi White County High School in 1996.  She married Mike Heath on June 20, 2015. Jill worked at Bryant Parts as the office manager for many years. She enjoyed being outdoors, camping and fishing. Painting was also a much loved pastime. 


     Jill is survived by her husband, Mike Heath of Carmi, IL.; her parents, Doy and Donna Sweetin of Carmi IL.; her children, Mason and Avery Marshall of Carmi, IL.and their father Mike Marshall; a sister, Amy (Dustin) Barnett of Carmi, IL.; two step children, Andrew (Devin) Heath of Ridgway, IL. and Tristan (Steven) McDermott of Shawneetown, IL.; two nephews, Drake and Myles Barnett of Carmi IL.; and eight grandchildren. She is also survived by two very special friends, Carrie Carpenter and Leslie Carney.  She was preceded in death by her maternal grandparents, Buddy and Helen Leedy.


Harold D Vote

Harold Daniel “De De” Vote, Jr., 76, of Evansville, passed away on Friday, February 12, 2021. He was born on February 6, 1945 to Harold and Annabelle (Barclay) Vote.

He retired from Mead Johnson/Bristol Myers-Squibb after 38 years as a lab tech. After retirement, he worked security at Indiana Downs, in the fishing department at Gander Mountain when they first opened, Buck and Jakes, and American Legacy Fishing Company. Harold was a proud member of the Bosse Class of ’63 and helped plan the class reunions and birthday parties. He attended all of them. He attended the University of Evansville where he was a member of the Tau Kappa Epsilon fraternity. Harold also took classes at the University of Southern Indiana. During his retirement, he would join friends for lunch at the Stockwell Inn on Mondays and Fridays. He could often be found in his workshop working on some project.


Harold was a lifelong fisherman, who continually challenged his abilities by hooking and breaking off as many fish species as he could. He went to Baldwin, MI each year, for 30 years, to catch salmon with his brother-in-law, Charles Thomas. Harold and Charles enjoyed many fishing adventures in Florida, especially Islamorada in the Florida Keys.




Gena McDaniel

Gena Rae McDaniel, 68, of Evansville, passed away on Sunday, February 7, 2021. She was born on August 22, 1952 in Evansville.


She worked in banking for most of her career. Gena enjoyed doing crossword puzzles and her monthly lunch dates with her friends. Her family was very important to her.


Barbara Ella Darling

Barbara Ella Darling, 72, of Evansville passed away on Wednesday, January 20th in Leawood, KS. Barb was a speech therapist for over forty years with the Evansville-Vanderburgh School Corporation, teaching in several schools throughout her career and acting as a teacher's union representative for years. Never shy about taking on a challenge or a chance to lead, she was involved in many committees and groups throughout the Evansville area, and served as President of the Antique Steam & Gas Engine Club in Boonville, IN for a number of years. She was an active member of Salem UMC her entire life, volunteering extensively in support of the church and its congregation.


Angie Knight Tillman

Evansville, Ind. - Angie M. Knight Tillman, precious mother of Emily J. Tillman and loving sister of Gail Knight Williams ended her earthly journey by being awarded her heavenly wings on January 12, 2021 after a short but devastating battle with cancer at Linda E. White Hospice House. She would have been 68 in just two weeks.


Angie was born on January 26, 1953 to Williams R. and Virginia S. Knight in Evansville, Indiana. Angie graduated from North High School in 1971. She retired just two years ago from Lensing Wholesale where she was employed more than 20 years. She loved working with her friends Susie, Pat, and Barb.


Angie will be remembered for her big smile that was always warm and welcoming, as well as, her caring and gentle heart. She loved life and living it to the fullest. At the center of her life was her family. It was her joy to spend time with them especially sharing meals, playing games or cards.


Judith Ann (Davis) Weatherford

Judith Ann (Davis) Weatherford went to her heavenly home on Monday, January 11, 2021. She was born March 8, 1958 in Evansville to the late Rosalie (Wade) and Earl Leroy Davis.


Judi graduated from Bosse High School and received her Associate Degree from Ivy Tech. She was a kind spirit and willing to help others. She worked at Sonitrol for 20 years. Judi created beautiful cross stitch taking care that the back was as beautiful as the front. She was an avid Cubs baseball fan. Judi helped her husband create and sustain ministries in the assisted living communities for several years. She affectionately called members her "peeps".


Karen Wilhite Williams
Karen is the inspiration behind Chemo Buddies.
Karen Rene Wilhite Williams, 53, of Evansville, passed away Monday, July 25, 2011 at her home. Karen’s main passion in life were her children, Jeremy and Danielle. They have been a strong family of love and care. She has been a source of strength and a light to many friends and people as she battled her disease with determination, and grace.

Her message to those who knew her was the peace she felt with God and that she was embraced in his love and felt no fear.

Karen was an account manager for 15 years for South Central Media (WIKY). She was a graduate of the University of Evansville with a degree in Marketing. She was involved with “Water for People” for several years to raise funds to supply clean water for countries in need.

Karen is the inspiration for the Chemo Buddies program. She always had friends and family with her during chemo and her heart broke for others who were in chemo and seemed to have no one. As she looked around the chemo room, she said, “We’ve got to do something, no one should ever have to go through chemo alone.” Together with her sister, she co-wrote the proposal for what is now Chemo Buddies, while sitting in the treatment room getting her chemo. Her caring and nurturing spirit lives on through the volunteers who now serve.

Karen is survived by her daughter, Danielle Williams of Evansville and her son, Jeremy Jones of Tampa, Florida. Also surviving are her parents, Vernie and Jerry Wilhite and (sister) Jill and Johnny Kincaid of Evansville.
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