Karen Leigh, 60, of Centralia, passed away on April 5, 2025, in Mt. Vernon, Illinois. She was born on December 8th, 1964, in Pontiac, Illinois to Delmar Church and Nelda (Toler) Wyatt.
Karen is survived by her loving husband, Timothy Leigh of Centralia; her daughter, Christy Nicholson, and her husband Allan of Bluford; her son, Michael Leigh of Centralia and her granddaughter, Zoey Wilson. She leaves behind a legacy of warmth with her brothers, Bobby Church, Larry Church, and Terry Church, all of Salem. Her extended family includes her aunt Cheryl Sullens (husband David) of Kinmundy, mother-in-law Gaye Knolhoff of Centralia, brother-in-law David Leigh (wife Jeannie) of Patoka, and sister-in-law Susan Branson (husband Keith) of Wamac. She will also be dearly missed by her many nieces and nephews.
Karen was preceded in death by her parents, Delmar Church and Nelda Wyatt, as well as her father-in-law, Wes Knolhoff, and her father-in-law, Delbert Leigh.
Karen devoted 12 years of her professional career to North American Lighting in Salem, Illinois, where she was respected and loved by her colleagues. Beyond her career, Karen was an avid reader with a particular fondness for Stephen King books and she enjoyed watching Hallmark movies on tv and coloring by numbers on her iPad. Her love for animals was evident to all who knew her, shown by her deep affection for her beloved dogs, Cara and Skylar. However, her greatest joy came from spending time with her family, especially her precious granddaughter, Zoey.
In keeping with Karen’s wishes, no public service will be held. The family has entrusted arrangements to Sutherland-Garnier Funeral Home at 235 North Sycamore Street, Centralia, Illinois 62801, (618)532-3523, who is honored to be of service to Karen’s Family. Online condolences may be made to the family by visiting www.sutherlandfuneralhome.com and the Funeral Home Facebook page.
While we mourn her loss, we celebrate the lasting impact she made on all who had the privilege of knowing her. Her spirit will continue to shine brightly in the hearts of her family and friends.
