With broken hearts, we announce the passing of Gary Michael Ramey, who entered Heaven on September 7, 2026.
Gary was born on March 2, 1951, in Ypsilanti, Michigan, to Jack Ramey and Evelyn Turco. He spent his younger years in California and Arizona before eventually making Centralia, Illinois, his home. One of Gary’s greatest dreams was to someday return to Arizona, a place that remained special to him throughout his life.
Gary was a hardworking man who worked as a carpenter and painter. He took great pride in his work and in the things he created with his own hands.
Gary had many interests and passions. He was an avid Chicago Cubs fan and a longtime fan of John Wayne. He enjoyed watching westerns, listening to Stevie Nicks and Ozzy Osbourne, and especially enjoyed golfing.
Most of all, Gary cherished his family and the time he spent with the love of his life, Charlene K. Sill. Gary and Charlene were blessed to share 31 wonderful years together, building a life filled with love, family, and countless memories.
Gary is survived by Charlene; his children, Mike (Charlie) Ramey of California, Cody Ramey of Washington, Falen Ramey of Washington, Shane Lux of Salem, Illinois, Shawn Lux of Smithboro, Illinois, and Shanna Lux of Centralia, Illinois; and many grandchildren and great-grandchildren. His grandson, Jeremy Glispie Jr., held a particularly special place in Gary’s heart. Gary helped raise Jeremy, and the two shared a special bond.
Gary is also survived by his siblings, Robbyn Moore of California, Danny (Bonnie) Ramey of Centralia, Illinois, Dwayne Ramey of Irvington, Illinois, Brenda Proksha of Centralia, Illinois, and Tina Ramey of Centralia, Illinois.
Gary also shared a close bond with Charlene’s family, who considered him a brother: Shirley Sill of Salem, Illinois; Carlene (Don Padberg) Sill of Patoka, Illinois; Shelley (Ray) Rose of Port Charlotte, Florida; and Shannon (Danny) Grzegorek of Morrison, Illinois. He also leaves behind many beloved nieces and nephews, along with numerous other family members and friends who will miss him dearly.
Gary was preceded in death by his father, Jack Ramey; his mother, Evelyn Turco; his brother, Larry Ramey; and his sisters, Sherri Ramey and Sandy Haydon.
Gary will be remembered for his strong work ethic, his love for his family, his enjoyment of the simple things in life, and the many memories he made with those he loved. His family will carry his memory in their hearts and forever cherish the years they were blessed to share with him.
A celebration of Gary’s life will be held at a later date.
Sutherland-Garnier Funeral Home, located at 235 North Sycamore Street Centralia, Illinois 62801, phone: (618) 532-3523, is honored to be of service to the family.
Online condolences may be made by visiting www.sutherlandfuneralhome.com and the Funeral Home Facebook page.
