Timothy “Tim” March, 61, passed away on Tuesday, July 21, 2026, at his home in Centralia, with his wife by his side. Tim was born on August 6, 1964, in Waukegan, IL, the son of Walter March and Anna (Paquette) March. On June 5, 1999, he married the love of his life, Carrie Jo (Hawkins) March.
Tim earned a Master’s Degree from SIUC. He started his career as a professor at Rend Lake College, where he taught culinary arts and later taught at Kaskaskia College. He enjoyed shaping young minds and inspiring students with his dedication and wisdom. His passion for education was matched by his love for the outdoors; camping, gardening, and fishing were among his favorite pastimes. Tim also found joy in cooking and relished the quiet company of a good book.
Tim is survived by his devoted wife, Carrie Jo March, and his son, Adam Hawkins of Centralia. He leaves behind his brothers and sister: Ronnie and wife Paulette of Chicago, Theresa March of Chicago, and Jimmy and wife Christa of Chicago; two sisters-in-law: Roxanne and husband Jimmy of Indiana and Raelene Hudson and Joe of Indiana; and many nieces and nephews who adored him. He will be profoundly missed by dear friends Kyle and Jess Grant of Centralia, who shared countless adventures and cherished memories with him.
He was preceded in death by his parents and his grandmother, Eva Hawkins, whose influence and love remained with him throughout his life.
A visitation to honor and remember Tim’s life will be held on Friday, July 24, 2026, from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM at the Sutherland-Garnier Funeral Home in Centralia. Family and friends are invited to pay their respects and share memories during this gathering. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations to be made to the family and will be accepted at the Sutherland-Garnier Funeral Home located at 235 North Sycamore Street, Centralia, Illinois 62801, (618)532-3523, who is honored to be of service to Tim’s Family. Online condolences may be made to the family by visiting www.sutherlandfuneralhome.com and the Funeral Home Facebook page. To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family, please visit our Sympathy Store.
