Earl Dean Wooters passed away peacefully on Tuesday, April 29, 2025, at the age of 82.
Born on Sunday, October 25, 1942, in Glenridge, Illinois, to Charles and Versie (Marshall) Wooters. He married Margaret “Sue” Marshall on December 3, 1964 and she survives in Centralia.
Earl is survived by his devoted wife of 60 years, Margaret “Sue” Wooters of Centralia, who stood by his side for many fulfilling years. He leaves behind a legacy of love and family, survived by his children, Leashea Ratermann of Centralia, Laurie Ratermann and husband Martin of Okawville, and Brian Wooters of Centralia. Earl took immense pride in his grandchildren: Heather Tucker of Centralia, James Ratterman and wife Shelby of Okawville, Ailissa Ratermann of Okawville, Reba Ratermann and John of Centralia, Brandon Ratermann of Okawville, and Hannah Carpenter of Centralia; great-grandchildren: Arella Ratermann, Dominik Ratermann, and Jakob Ratermann all of Okawville; two sisters and a brother: Pearl Webb of Glenridge, Pauline Stull and husband Bill of Glenridge, and Donald Wooters of Sandoval; sister-in-law: Cheryle Donaldson and husband Mark of Vandalia; brother-in-law: Frank Ioerger of Centralia; several nieces and nephews; family friends: Patrick Carpenter and John Bierman both of Centralia.
He was preceded in death by his beloved parents, Charles and Versie Wooters, mother-in-law: Thelma Marshall, several sisters and brothers: Mary Moulton, Kenny Wooters, Ronnie Wooters, Gene Hoskey, Marion Hoskey, Fern Evans and Ruby Grennan, and two brothers-in-law: Terry Marshall and Donald Marshall, and sister-in-law: Debbie Ioerger.
Earl was a hardworking laborer, dedicating many years to his craft and providing for his family with unwavering commitment and love. His contributions to his work and his community were appreciated by all who knew him. Earl enjoyed going camping and fishing. He also loved to solve puzzle books and watch Old Westerns; especially Gunsmoke. Earl Dean Wooters will be remembered for his warm heart, his steadfast dedication to his family, and his indomitable spirit. His absence will be profoundly felt by all who were privileged to know him.
Per his wishes, cremation rites will be accorded, and a Celebration of Life Service will be held at a later date.
Sutherland-Garnier Funeral Home and Cremation Services at 235 North Sycamore Street, Centralia, Illinois 62801, 618-532-3523, are honored to be of service to Earl’s Family. Online condolences may be made to the family by visiting www.sutherlandfuneralhome.com and the Funeral Home Facebook page.