It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Peggy Phillips, who passed away on Friday, April 3, 2026, at the age of 86, in her home surrounded by loved ones.
Peggy was born in Centralia on April 23, 1939. She is the daughter of Ralph Hartley and Emily (Krietemeyer) Hartley. She married William H. “Bill” Phillips on June 22, 1958, in Irvington, and he preceded her in death in October of 1985 after 27 years of marriage. She was also preceded in death by her parents, Ralph and Emily Hartley, her brother, Ronald Hartley, and half-sister, Beth Bealer.
She leaves behind her two loving daughters, Cindi Chapman of Centralia and Karla Blowers of Olympia, WA; granddaughter, Jessi (husband Derek) Utley of Centralia; grandson, Will Blowers Jr. of North Bend, WA; granddaughter, Brooke (husband Ian) Ilgenfritz, and great-grandchildren, Lennon and Sullivan Ilgenfritz of Olympia, WA. Her grandchildren, as well as many others, knew her lovingly as “Gram”.
A proud graduate of Centralia Township High School, class of 1957, Peggy went on to pursue higher education at Southern Illinois University in Carbondale, where she earned her Master’s Degree in Education. Dedicated to her students, she served as a teacher at Sandoval High School for over two decades, retiring in 1995. Peggy was not only a teacher but also a FHA, and D.A.R.E. leader, impacting countless lives with her guidance. Prior to teaching, she was a 4-H leader, mentoring, guiding meetings, and planning activities for our community’s youth. Her passion for education and her commitment to her students left a lasting legacy.
After retiring from teaching, Peggy worked at SAFE in Centralia, a testament to her dedication to helping those in need. She also led the class of 1957’s generous annual donation to families at Christmas in the Centralia area. She was known for her seamstress skills, culinary talents, and her love of playing cards. Her strong-will, candid nature, and willingness to help others will always be remembered. Peggy will be dearly missed by all who knew her.
To honor Peggy’s life, a visitation will be held on Thursday, April 9, 2026, from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM, followed by a celebration of her life at 1:00 PM, at the Sutherland-Garnier Funeral Home in Centralia, IL. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to a charity of your choice. They will be accepted by the Sutherland-Garnier Funeral Home, 235 North Sycamore Street, Centralia, IL 62801, (618)532-3523, which is honored to be of service to Peggy’s family. Online condolences may be made by visiting www.sutherlandfuneralhome.com and the funeral home Facebook page.
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