MARION, Ill.   A southern Illinois newspaper carrier is credited with rescuing an elderly woman who apparently spent days trapped beneath her dead husband's body.

Blanche Roberts had been pinned by the body of 77-year-old Fred Roberts for at least two days before she was found by Bruce Pitts and his wife on Sunday, authorities said.

Pitts said he became concerned about the couple after seeing the Southern Illinoisan editions he'd delivered stack up in their mailbox.

He found Blanche Roberts when he went into the couple's home to check their well-being.

Williamson County Coroner Mike Burke said there's nothing suspicious about the death.

Blanche Roberts was taken to a hospital, but her medical status isn't being disclosed.

Fred Roberts' funeral arrangements are pending.