Samuel “Sam” Fyke, of Centralia, Illinois, passed away peacefully on Monday, August 25, 2025, at the age of 51. Born on Wednesday, June 19, 1974, in Centralia, Illinois, the son of Donald Leroy Fyke, Sr. and Eva Elizabeth (Elliston) Fyke. On July 15, 2000, Sam married Dawn Graham, and she survives.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Friday, August 29, 2025, at 7:00 PM at the Sutherland-Garnier Funeral Home in Centralia, where Pastor Seth Baltzell will officiate. Friends and family are invited to gather for a visitation on Friday evening, starting at 5:00 PM until the time of the service at the Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Dawn Fyke. Contributions will be accepted at Sutherland-Garnier Funeral Home, located at 235 North Sycamore Street, Centralia, Illinois 62801, (618) 532-3523, who is honored to assist Sam’s family during this difficult time. Online condolences may be expressed to the family by visiting www.sutherlandfuneralhome.com and the Funeral Home Facebook Page.
Sam will be remembered fondly by his loving wife of 25 years, Dawn Fyke of Centralia, his children: Bret Atchison and wife Shannon of Salem, Amber Fyke of Centralia, Samuel “Bud” Fyke, Jr. and wife Brytni of Odin, and Dillon Fyke and Amber Seats of Centralia. He was a proud grandfather to nine grandchildren: Mariah Miller, Aubree Atchison, Malachi Fyke, Nova Atchison, Lilanna Fyke, Hunter Tibbetts, Elana Fyke, Langston Ford, and Dabria Fyke.
Sam’s surviving family also includes four brothers: Aaron Senn and wife Denise of Salem, Joe Senn and wife Lisa of Shattuc, Matthew Senn of Centralia, and Donald Fyke, Jr. of Carbondale; three sisters: Jaclyn Senn of Centralia, Annie Cano and husband Steve of Witt, and Dorothy Fyke of Dix. He is also survived by three brothers-in-law: Dan Barker of Patoka, Michael Graham and wife Melissa of Salem, and Christopher Graham and wife Kerry of Vandalia; sister-in-law, Raejean Foster of Petersburg, Indiana; and several nieces and nephews.
Sam was preceded in death by his parents, sister, Amazing Grace Barker, nephew, David Senn, and two aunts: Judy Elliston and Rachel Downs.
Sam was a dedicated construction worker, known for his tireless work ethic and passion for the outdoors. His happiest moments were spent hunting, fishing, and camping, particularly during the annual deer camp—a tradition he cherished deeply. Above all, Sam was a devoted family man whose life was centered around his grandbabies and loved ones. Sam touched many lives with his vivacious spirit and unwavering dedication to his family and work. Sam Fyke’s legacy of hard work, love for the outdoors, and unwavering devotion to his family will continue to live on through those who had the privilege of knowing him.
