Saunie Blue, of Centralia, passed away peacefully on Monday, May 19, 2025, at the age of 85. Born on December 4, 1939, in Centralia, Saunie lived a life full of love, service, and adventure. She married Richard Blue on March 24, 1961 at Trinity Lutheran Church in Centralia, and he survives her in Centralia after 64 years of blissful marriage.
Saunie dedicated 24 years of her career as a Secretary at the Centralia Fire Department, providing steadfast and invaluable support to her community. Her commitment to her work and her kindness left a lasting impression on her colleagues and all who had the privilege of knowing her.
Saunie was of the Lutheran faith and attended Trinity Lutheran Church in Centralia and Hoffman. A woman of varied interests, Saunie was deeply passionate about golfing, celebrating a remarkable achievement by scoring a hole in one during her active years. She also enjoyed bowling, fishing, and playing softball, activities that she embraced with enthusiasm in her younger days. Most of all, her family meant the world to her, especially her grandchildren.
Saunie is survived by her loving daughter, Tracie Sill, and husband Terry; her beloved grandchildren, Cody Sill and Molly Sill; her devoted friend and caregiver, Brenda Hubbs of Centralia; as well as her son, Rick Blue and wife Pam of Odin, and grandchild, Kelsie Blue. She is also fondly remembered by several cousins who were close to her heart.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Edwin and Evelyn Hugo, and her special aunt and uncle, Irvin and Esther Hassebrock, along with several other aunts and uncles who played significant roles in her life.
Per Saunie’s wishes, cremation rites will be accorded and a visitation for family and friends will be held Thursday, May 22, 2025 at the Sutherland-Garnier Funeral Home in Centralia from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm.
The family wishes to extend their heartfelt gratitude to all who have expressed condolences and support. In memory of Saunie, memorial donations may be made to Richard Blue and will be accepted by the Sutherland-Garnier Funeral Home at 235 North Sycmaore Street in Centralia, IL 62801 (618) 532-3523, who is honored to be of service to Saunie’s family. Online condolences may be made to the family by visiting www.sutherlandfuneralhome.com or the Funeral Home’s Facebook page.
