Helen Louise Fatheree, age 96, of Flora, Illinois, passed away Tuesday afternoon, September 30, 2025, at Clay County Hospital.

      She was born February 18, 1929, in Blue Mound, the daughter of Luman Malcum “Leb” and Dorothy Gertrude (Parrish) Sunderland.  She was united in marriage to Robert Louis Fatheree on November 2, 1946, in Macon, and together they shared 71 wedding anniversaries until his passing on March 23, 2018.

      A supportive farm wife and proud member of the NFO (National Farmers Organization), Helen worked alongside Bob on the farm and helped operate the family’s 10-4 CB Shop for many years.  She found joy in simple pleasures— gardening, canning, a good book, knitting, crocheting, and treasure-hunting at rummage sales.

      She is survived by her children: Roger (Becky) Fatheree of Clinton, Evelyn Isom (Gary Williams) of Salem, and Paul (Anita) Fatheree of Woodlawn, Tennessee; 8 grandchildren: Shawn, Blaine, Derek, Sharon, Debby, Dena, Jennifer, and Ashley; 8 great-grandchildren: Vivian, Hunter, Haley, Grant, Caden, Logan, Addison, and Lily; a great-great-granddaughter: Lakelyn; and 3 brothers: Jim, Howard, and Ed Sunderland.

      She was preceded in passing by her parents; husband; a son-in-law: Darrell Isom; sisters: Phyllis, Wanda Mae, Peggy Jo, Virginia, Patty Sue, and Ila Marie; and brothers: Bob, Bill, and Don.

      A graveside ceremony was held on Saturday, October 11, 2025, at Powers Cemetery, Xenia.  Arrangements by Frank & Bright Funeral Home in Flora.   Memorial donations are suggested to the local chapter of the DAV (Disabled American Veterans), and these will be accepted through the funeral home.  To share a condolence or memory, visit: www.frankandbright.com