Matthew Bernard “Matt” Sloat, 72, of Centralia, passed away Sunday, May 25, 2025, at SSM Health Good Samaritan Hospital in Mt. Vernon. He was born on August 16, 1952, the son of Edgar and Martha (Gould) Sloat in East St. Louis, MO. He married the love of his life, Cecelia Dodson on April 9, 1977, and she survives him in Centralia.
Along with his devoted wife, that Matt shared 48 wonderful years of marriage, survivors include his children, Anita (Jody) Baldwin of Mount Pulaski, IL, Anna Sloat and fiancé Joseph Long of TN, and Heather McKinzie and fiancé Josh Beal of Mount Vernon, IL; grandchildren, Victoria Durbin and fiancé Ricky Oliver of Mount Puaski, IL, Caitlyn McKinzie of Centralia, IL, Baylie McKinzie and fiancé Brett Phillips of Woodlawn, IL, Arianna McKinzie of Mount Vernon, IL, Morgan Lemons of TN, and Danielle McKinzie; 5 great grand children; brothers, Michael Snyder of WI, Steve (Diane) Walta of Centralia, IL, and Bill Sloat of Centralia, IL; and a host of nieces, nephews, extended family members and friends. Matt was preceded in death by his parents, Edgar and Martha Sloat; brothers, Terry Sloat, Harry “Kip” Sloat, Lonnie Sloat; sister, Bernice Cornstubale; and son-in-law, Chad McKinzie.
Matt was born and raised in East St. Louis and has called Centralia his home since moving here in 1971. He was grateful to have his amazing wife, Cecelia, come into his life, and the two shared a great partnership, tackling and cherishing all that life had to offer, hand in hand. Matt was a diligent, hard-working employee of Radiac Abrasives in Salem, holding the position as press operator leadman for 28 years. His well-earned retirement found Matt busy out catching fish, working on puzzles, and enjoying the beauty of nature while camping. He was of the Southern Baptist faith. Matt was a loving, supportive family man who looked forward to nothing more than making memories with his family that were dearest to his heart.
A celebration of life service will be held by the family at a later date. Online condolences and memories of Matt may be shared with his family by visiting maczfunberalhomes.com and/or on the funeral home’s Facebook page. Irvin Macz Funeral Home in Centralia is privileged to be assisting the family of Matt Sloat with arrangements.
