It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Roger McKay, beloved son, husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend. Roger peacefully departed this life on Friday, January 23, 2026, at the age of 67, at his residence in O’Fallon, IL, surrounded by his family.
Roger was born on November 21, 1958, in Centralia, IL, a community he would continually serve and cherish. He was the son of Bob McKay and Eleanor (Wagner) McKay. A proud graduate of Centralia High School, class of 1977, Roger laid the foundation for his career in the oilfields, working alongside his parents. His entrepreneurial spirit led him to establish McKay’s Hazmat in 1991, Advanced Business Concepts in 2002, and later, RPM Property Investments in 2016, where he found joy in renovating homes with his wife, Pam.
Roger was a member of the First United Methodist Church in Centralia. He built his life around faith, family, and hard work. He served as chaplain at the Elks Lodge No. 493 in Centralia and dedicated two decades to the North Wamac Grade School Board, contributing greatly to local education and his community. Roger also played a significant role in the Centralia Balloon Fest, serving on the steering committee for many years and serving as Balloon Fest Chairman in 2004.
Roger had an unfailing zest for life, evident in the way he loved music, shared jokes, and kept in touch with his friends. He was the driving force behind the CHS Class of 1977 reunions, keeping the bonds of friendship strong through the years. Yet, his greatest pride and joy were reserved for his family, especially his cherished granddaughter, Elowyn, who was the light of his life.
Roger leaves behind a loving family: his devoted wife of 45 years, Pamela “Pam” McKay of O’Fallon, daughter Cassandra “Cassie” Holland and husband Nathan of O’Fallon, son Zachary “Zach” McKay and Leslie Steinmarch of Springfield, and granddaughter Elowyn Holland. He is also survived by his mother Eleanor McKay of Centralia, brother Gary McKay and wife Barb of Memphis, TN, sister Karen Dorsey of Nashville, TN, mother-in-law Elsie Seger of Carlyle, and brothers and sisters-in-law Marty Seger and wife Anita of Carlyle, Deb Luetkemeyer and husband Dave of Ballwin, MO, and Dave Seger and wife Mindy of Centralia. He will be fondly remembered by several nieces, nephews, and great-nieces. He is also survived by his four-legged companions, whom he loved dearly.
Roger was preceded in death by his father Bob McKay, infant daughter Nicole McKay, sister Susan McKay, brother Steve McKay, nephew Scott McKay, and father-in-law Louis “Sonny” Seger.
A time for family and friends to gather and remember Roger will be held at Sutherland-Garnier Funeral Home in Centralia on Friday, January 30, 2026, from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM, and on Saturday, January 31, 2026, from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM, followed by the Funeral Service on Saturday at 11:00 am with Pastor Steve Upchurch officiating. Burial will follow at Hillcrest Memorial Park in Centralia.
In memory of Roger, memorial donations may be made to Roger’s grandchildren’s college fund, ensuring that his legacy of love and learning continues. Arrangements are being handled with care by Sutherland-Garnier Funeral Home at 235 North Sycamore Street in Centralia, IL 62801 (618) 532-3523, reflecting Roger’s enduring impact on all who knew and loved him. He will be deeply missed and forever cherished in our hearts.
