It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Charles “Chuck” Lee Blackman Jr., aka “Papa” age 75. A cherished husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend, who left on Tuesday, July 29th, 2025 surrounded by his family. Born on Thursday, March 2nd, 1950, in Ashley, Illinois, Charles was the son of Charles Blackman Sr. and Dorothy (Atchison) Blackman. He was a beloved resident of Centralia and will be remembered fondly by all who knew him. On October 26, 1983, he married Cheryl Ann Brookman and she preceded him in death on July 19, 2015.
Charles spent his career working in the railroad industry, where he was known for his dedication and hard work. He operated the Blackman’s Small Engines shop with his father for years. His unwavering commitment to his profession and his family will remain a lasting legacy.
He is survived by his loving daughters: Melissa Kirgan and her husband, Richard, of Salem; Contessa Blackman and her fiancé, Steve Norris, of Centralia and Madison Blackman of Centralia. Charles was a proud grandfather to Rachel Orrell (Travis) of Breese, Kaitlyn O’Dell (Dakota) of Patoka, Cameron Lenzini and fiancé (MaKenna) of Centralia , PFC Jared Kirgan (Bree) Ft Campbell KY, Harley Mingus of Salem, Jayda Blackman, Savannah Posey, and Jersey Blackman of Centralia, Benjamin, Eayn, and Alliesyn Norris of Centralia. He also leaves behind six great-grandchildren: Hunter, Raelynn, Nolan, Brian, Naomi, and Declan.
Charles is survived by his dear sisters, Sherie Copple and her husband, Allen, of Walnut Hill, Dottie Matthews of Odin, and Mary Litteken and her husband, Gary, of Trenton. He is also remembered by several nieces and nephews who will miss him dearly.
He is preceded in death by his father, Charles Blackman Sr., mother, Dorothy Blackman, and his beloved wife, Cheryl Blackman. He is also reunited with his sisters: Gayla Snell and Brenda Sanders; infant nephews: David Sellers and Michael Sellers; brother: Vernon Sellers and his wife, Delores, his father in law: Stanley Brookman & mother in law: Virginia Brookman, and brothers-in-law: Steve Brookman and Norman Matthews.
A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date to honor the memory of Charles and the love he shared with his family and friends. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the family and will be accepted by the Sutherland-Garnier Funeral Home at 235 North Sycamore Street in Centralia, IL 62801 (618) 532-3523, who is honored to be of service to the Blackman family. Online condolences may be made to the family by visiting www.sutherlandfuneralhome.com or the Funeral Home’s Facebook page.
Charles will be deeply missed by all who knew him, but his spirit will continue to live on in the hearts of his loved ones.
