Leonard Carl Hart, Sr. of Centralia, Illinois, passed away peacefully at his home on Monday, August 11th, 2025, at the age of 83. Born on Thursday, December 11th, 1941, in Centralia, he was the son of James Hart and Dorothy M. (Arning) Werner.
On March 30, 1963 he married Ruth Barlow and they spent 59 wonderful years together before she passed away on September 24, 2022.
Leonard is survived by his loving children: Leonard Hart, Jr. and wife Deanna of Virginia and Carla Vandeventer and husband Curt of Centralia; brother Melvin Hart of Mt. Vernon; sisters Carol Shook of Florida and Hazel Reed (Charlie) of Florida; grandchildren Elizabeth Keeter (Wesley) of Virginia, Josh Vandeventer (Hannah) of Hoffman, and Brandy Vandeventer (fiancé Tyler Dunhan) of Springfield; and his great-grandchildren Jaxon Dunhan, Amelia Keeter, and Benson Lee Vandeventer.
He was preceded in death by his father, James C. Hart; mother, Dorothy Hart; beloved wife, Ruth Hart; and sisters Judy Parkinson and Julie Rice.
Leonard proudly served his country as a Marine, earning the Good Conduct Medal for his dedicated service. Following his military career, he embarked on a remarkable 38-year journey as a Barkman/Conductor with the Canadian National Railroad. His commitment to his work was well recognized, and he was highly respected by his colleagues.
Leonard’s life was filled with passion and adventure. An avid outdoorsman, he found joy in hunting, fishing, and camping. His talent for crafting model AC airplanes showcased his intricate skills and creativity—hobbies he loved sharing with his family. Leonard was a devoted family man, always cherishing moments spent with his loved ones. His heart was further enriched by his love for his fur babies, Boo and Lulu, who were a constant source of companionship.
Leonard was an active member of the American Legion Post 446 and AMVETS Post 101, where he was a life member. His commitment to his community was unwavering, and his presence there will be missed dearly.
Family, friends, and those whose lives were touched by Leonard are invited to celebrate his life on Friday, August 15, 2025 at 12:00pm at the Hillcrest Lakeside Chapel in Centralia. A Visitation will be held from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM at Hillcrest Lakeside Chapel in Centralia. Burial will follow in Hillcrest Memorial Park Cemetery in Centralia. Military rites will be accorded by the American Legion Post 446 and the V.F.W. Post 2055 in Centralia. In honor of Leonard’s deep affection for animals, the family kindly requests that donations be made to the Centralia Humane Society 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 Hart family. Online condolences may be made to the family by visiting www.sutherlandfuneralhome.com and the Funeral Home’s Facebook page.
Leonard Carl Hart’s memory will live on in the hearts and lives of all those he touched. May he rest in peace, embraced by the love he so freely gave.
