It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Margaret Ann Atteberry, who left us peacefully on Tuesday, September 16, 2025, at SSM Health Good Samaritan Hospital in Mt. Vernon, at the age of 82. Margaret was a resident of Centralia, IL.
Born on a summer Tuesday, July 6, 1943, Margaret was a beloved daughter of the late Elmer Warnecke and Anna (Dillinger) Lusch. She was preceded in death by her brother Roy Warnecke, sisters Doris Homann and Brenda Sellers. Also, her beloved four-legged companion, Annie, who was always by her side
Margaret dedicated many years of her life to working at Altadonna’s IGA, where she was known for her friendly demeanor and unwavering work ethic. Her colleagues and customers remember her fondly for her kindness and dedication.
Margaret’s legacy is carried forward by her loving family: her daughter, Debra Boatright, of Centralia; her son, Gregory Melton, and his wife, Teresa, of Branson, MO. She was a proud grandmother to her cherished grandchildren: Nicole Boatright (Michael Knorr) of Monroe, MO, Travis Melton, Gregory Melton (Sarah), Christopher Melton (Abby), Conrad Melton, Paul Melton, all of Branson, MO, and Alexis Melton of Washington. She was further blessed with 14 great-grandchildren who brought immense joy to her life.
In addition to her children and grandchildren, Margaret is survived by her brother, Dave Lusch (Andrea) of Salem, and her sisters, Deanna Froneyberger (Dave) of Mt. Vernon, Michelle Malcom of Odin, and Dianna Youngblood (Dennis) of Keenes. She also leaves behind many nieces and nephews.
Private family services will be held at a later date with burial in Hillcrest Memorial Park in Centralia. In Memory of Margaret, 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 Margaret’s family. Online condolences may be made to the family by visiting www.sutherlandfuneralhome.com or the Funeral Home’s Facebook page.
Margaret touched the lives of all who knew her with her gentle spirit, and her memory will be cherished by those she leaves behind.
