Kathryn Marie James, a resident of Centralia, IL, passed away peacefully on Thursday, February 13, 2025, at the age of 89.
Born on Sunday, January 26, 1936, in Richview, Illinois to Claude T. and Florence (Kemp) Newman. She married John Murray on July 3, 1954, and they later divorced. Kathryn married Stanley James and he preceded her in death on May 10, 2003.
Kathryn was cherished by many, including her children: Debbie Stankus of Centralia, Peggy Szopinski and her husband Henry of New Minden, and Bryan Murray and his wife Amy of Walnut Hill. She was a proud grandmother to six grandchildren: Tara Finke and her husband Jason, Blane Murray and Alexis Holmes, Brookland Rossel, Crede Correll, Sandra Heinman and her husband Paul, and Kari Challand and her husband Mark. Her legacy continues through her eleven great-grandchildren: Sunny, Sadie, Starla, Daci, Degyn, Cody, Jordon, Brandon, Brooke, Austin, and Axel. Kathryn is also survived by her brothers: Keith Newman and Tom Newman, her sister-in-law: Marlene Newman, and numerous nieces and nephews.
Kathryn was preceded in death by her parents, her husband: Stanley James, her grandson: Jeremy Szopinski, sisters: Evelyn, Helen, and Vivian, brothers: Harold, Gary, Kenneth, and Ronald, her son-in-law: Alan Stankus, and her dear friend: Norm Sprehe.
Known for her dedication and talent, Kathryn worked as a seamstress at Miss Elaines. She was a member of the Richview Baptist Church. She was also a member of the Centralia Women of the Moose. Kathryn found joy in dancing, camping, fishing, farming, traveling, and spending time with her cherished family. Kathryn’s life was a testament to dedication, love, and an unwavering commitment to her family.
In celebration of Kathryn’s remarkable life, a Celebration of Life will be held on Friday, February 21, 2025, at 1:00 PM at the Hillcrest Lakeside Chapel in Centralia, with Pastor Steve Upchurch officiating. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Washington County Humane Society, and will be accepted at the Sutherland-Garnier Funeral Home, located at 235 North Sycamore Street, Centralia, Illinois 62801, (618)532-3523, who is honored to serve Kathryn’s family. Online condolences may be shared with the family by visiting www.sutherlandfuneralhome.com and the Funeral Home Facebook page. Kathryn will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by all who knew her.
