All posts by : Marymother Site

The Wetumpka community is deeply saddened by the passing of Paul Anthony East, who died peacefully at his home on November 21, 2025, at the age of 52. Paul was a devoted husband, a supportive stepfather, a loving family member, and a valued friend whose presence brought warmth, steadiness, and kindness to everyone who had the privilege of knowing him.

Paul was preceded in death by his father, James “Jimmy” East, and his sister, Barbara Kreauter, whose memories continued to shape and guide him throughout his life. He is survived by his beloved wife, Kim East, and by his cherished step-children, Blake Wright and David Wright, who felt his unwavering encouragement and gentle strength in every chapter of their lives. Paul also leaves behind numerous siblings, extended family members, and close friends who will hold his memory with deep affection and gratitude.

A longtime resident of Wetumpka, Paul was known for his calm demeanor, strong work ethic, and genuine compassion. Whether offering a helping hand to neighbors, supporting his loved ones through difficult moments, or simply sharing a kind conversation, Paul’s character was defined by humility and sincerity. He was the type of person others naturally trusted—steady, reliable, and generous with both his time and his heart.

Family and friends will gather to honor Paul’s life in a funeral service scheduled for December 2, 2025, at New Home Baptist Church, where his loved ones will reflect on the many ways he touched their lives. A visitation will be held the day before, on December 1, 2025, at Gassett Funeral Home, offering the community an opportunity to come together in support, remembrance, and prayer.

Paul’s passing leaves a profound void, but his legacy of loyalty, kindness, and quiet strength endures. As we mourn his loss, we also give thanks for the years shared with him—for the laughter he inspired, the love he gave freely, and the steady presence he provided to those he held dear.

We extend our heartfelt condolences to Kim, Blake, David, and the entire East family during this difficult time. May they find comfort in cherished memories and in knowing that Paul’s life left a meaningful and lasting imprint on all who knew him.

It is with profound sorrow that we share the passing of Elle Butterfly Schilling, a cherished daughter, granddaughter, and beloved young woman whose life ended far too soon in early November 2025 at only 21 years of age. Words feel impossibly small in the shadow of such a heartbreaking loss, and the depth of grief felt by her family and all who loved her is immeasurable.

Elle was a radiant presence—gentle, creative, compassionate, and uniquely gifted with a spirit that seemed to shine from within. Those who knew her describe her as a soul who embodied both grace and resilience, someone whose kindness flowed effortlessly and whose laughter brought warmth to every room she entered. Her name, Butterfly, suited her beautifully; she moved through the world with lightness, curiosity, and a rare ability to touch lives in quiet yet powerful ways.

As a granddaughter, Elle was deeply loved and adored. Her family treasures countless memories of her bright smile, her thoughtful heart, and her natural ability to make others feel seen and valued. Her absence leaves a space that cannot be filled, a silence that echoes with all the moments and dreams that should have been. Losing someone so young is a grief no family should ever endure, and the pain of her passing is felt with overwhelming weight.

We hold especially close in our thoughts her mother, Michele, whose heartbreak is beyond measure. The bond between Elle and her mother was extraordinary—one built on unconditional love, gentle understanding, and shared strength. In this time of profound sorrow, we ask for continued prayers, compassion, and support for Michele and the entire family as they navigate an unimaginable loss.

Though Elle’s time on earth was brief, her impact was enduring. She leaves behind a legacy of kindness, beauty, and love—reminders of a life that, while tragically short, was deeply meaningful to those fortunate enough to know her. May her memory be a source of comfort, guiding her loved ones with the same gentle brightness she carried throughout her life.

We extend our heartfelt condolences to Elle’s family, friends, and all who mourn her. May her spirit soar freely, and may those who loved her find strength in the cherished memories she leaves behind.

The Bloomington-Normal community is mourning the unexpected passing of Mike Holtz, longtime Owner-Operator of Holtz Plumbing Inc., who died on Friday at the age of 64. Mike was a respected tradesman, a proud graduate of Central Catholic High School, and a trusted professional whose name became synonymous with integrity, craftsmanship, and reliability throughout Illinois. His dedication to his work, his customers, and the business he built over decades earned him the admiration of colleagues, clients, and neighbors alike.

Yet to many, Mike was known for something even larger than his professional legacy. He was the man who lit up Christmas—literally and joyfully—for more than forty years. Each holiday season, his home on Hovey Avenue transformed into one of the region’s most beloved landmarks: a dazzling, whimsical, and unmistakably “Mike” celebration of Christmas spirit. With more than 1,300 blow molds displayed across his yard, porch, roof, and every space in between, Mike created a vibrant winter wonderland that drew families, fascinated children, and sparked joy for generations.

What began as a personal passion grew into a local treasure and eventually captured national attention, even earning him a feature in The New York Times. Mike often jokingly referred to himself as “the crazy guy” who went all-in on Christmas décor, but to the community, he was something far more special. His home was a place where memories were made, traditions were born, and holiday magic felt real. The long-running joke was that the display was so bright, even satellites could find it without coordinates.

His passing leaves a deep void—professionally, personally, and seasonally. Hovey Avenue will feel darker this year, and not only because the lights he so lovingly installed will remain still. The true dimming is the loss of the warm, generous, good-humored man behind them.

We extend our heartfelt condolences to Mike’s family, friends, coworkers, and all who were touched by his kindness and creativity. His legacy lives on in the craftsmanship of the business he built, in the countless people he faithfully served, and in the glow of holiday joy he inspired for more than four decades.

May his memory continue to shine as brightly as the lights he shared with the world.