Carolyn Sue Roper, affectionately known as Sue, peacefully departed this life on Saturday, September 5, 2026, at the age of 88. Born on January 24, 1938, in Mt. Vernon, Illinois, the daughter of Edward “Ed” Eubank and Nellie (Simmons) Eubank. She married Harley E. Roper on October 5, 1956, and they later divorced. Sue brought joy and inspiration to everyone she met throughout her remarkable journey on this Earth.
Sue was a beloved resident of Centralia, Illinois, where she made her home a warm and welcoming place for family and friends. Her unparalleled skill in crafting, cooking, and sewing left those around her in awe and admiration. As a devoted member of a sewing group, she cherished her moments with Dorothy Aydt, creating beautiful memories and cherished pieces. Sue’s love for flowers and shopping added color and vibrancy to her life and the lives of those she touched. Above all, her greatest joy came from spending time with her family and her loyal canine companion, Max.
Sue is survived by her loving children: Pam Wilson and husband Kevin, Cindy Roper, Mike Roper and wife Lesley, Todd Roper and special friend Julie Juday, Chad Roper and wife Velvet, and Travis Roper and wife Daytha. Her legacy lives on through her numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren. Sue also leaves behind her sister, Dinah Lamb, and her husband, Joe, of Cravat, Illinois, and her brother, Larry Eubank, of Murphysboro, Tennessee, along with several cherished nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her parents, beloved granddaughter Melissa Roper, dear grandson Tristan Roper, and daughter-in-law Carole Roper.
A visitation to celebrate Sue’s life will be held on Thursday, September 10, 2026, from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM at the Sutherland-Garnier Funeral Home in Centralia. The funeral service will follow the visitation, and Sue will be laid to rest at Gilead Cemetery in Centralia, Illinois. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to a chosen charity and will be accepted at Sutherland-Garnier Funeral Home, located at 235 North Sycamore Street, Centralia, Illinois 62801, phone: (618) 532-3523, which is honored to be of service to Sue’s family.
You may leave online condolences at www.sutherlandfuneralhome.com and on the Funeral Home Facebook page. The family expresses their gratitude for all the love and support during this time, honoring the beautiful life of Carolyn Sue Roper.
