It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Dennis Claxton, who departed this life on Sunday, February 8th, 2026, at the age of 67.
Born on Sunday, January 18th, 1959, he is the son of Clifford Claxton and June (Boyle) Claxton. He married Star (Ellis) Claxton on October 25, 2002, and she survives in Centralia.
Dennis spent his early years in California before settling in Illinois. He graduated from high school in California, embarking on a life journey that was marked by hard work, dedication, and a profound love for his family and friends. Dennis spent several years working as a factory worker at Nascote in Nashville, a testament to his strong work ethic and commitment.
Dennis had a passion for fishing and took joy in cultivating a summer garden, where he expertly canned his famous pickles and salsa. He was a proud member of the Moose Lodge, where he found camaraderie and community. His fondness for travel was evident in the many trips he took with his wife, Star, to visit family across Tennessee, Texas, and Hawaii.
He is survived by his devoted wife, Star Claxton of Centralia; his sons, Dave (Crystal) Claxton of Patoka and Matthew Claxton of Centralia. He leaves behind a loving family including his siblings, Greg (Frank) Hughes of California, Kim (Richard) Golish of Texas, Tina (Richard) Adair of Idaho, Paula (Larry) Bradstone of Arizona and Cheryl Claxton of Arizona and Bob Claxton of Hawaii. His legacy lives on in his grandchildren, Loraleigh, Grayson, Ava, Lilly, and Andrew, as well as his stepchildren, Steve Koppen (Bobbie) of Centralia, Julie Koppen (Drake Hosking), and Andrew Koppen (Lindsey Smith), and step-grandchildren Mason Koppen, Darius Hoskins, Donovan Hoskins, and Dakarai Hoskins. He leaves behind countless nieces, nephews, and friends who will miss his warmth and kindness dearly.
Dennis was preceded in death by his parents, Clifford and June Claxton, his daughter, Tina Hausuanfaus, and his sister, Jay Smallwood.
Although there will be no public services at this time, Dennis’s life and legacy will be celebrated in the hearts of those who knew and loved him, and a Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.
In honor of Dennis’s generous spirit, the family requests that donations be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, and will be accepted at the Sutherland-Garnier Funeral Home, located at 235 North Sycamore Street, Centralia, Illinois 62801, (618) 532-3523. The funeral home is honored to be of service to Dennis’ family, and online condolences may be shared at www.sutherlandfuneralhome.com and through their Facebook page..
We take comfort in knowing that Dennis is in God’s hands now, reunited with the family he cherished so dearly. He will be missed but forever remembered by all whose lives he touched.
