Kevin Eugene Little, 66, of Kell, passed away on Saturday, October 5th at his home after a lengthy and courageous battle with cancer.
Kevin was born in Salem, IL to Marilyn (Hays) Little and Cecil “Bud” Little. He graduated from Salem High School in 1976. Later that same year he joined the USMC where he proudly served his country for 5 years rising to the rank of Sergeant. He returned home and continued his educational career at Kaskaskia College and then at EIU. After college Kevin had a 25-year career teaching English at Centralia High School, where he will be remembered for not only sharing his love of knowledge but also for playing his guitar for his students during the passing periods.
Kevin married Jennifer (Gold) Little in 2008 and she survives. Kevin and Jennifer have two children, Cecilia Little and Michael Little. He is also survived by his Mother, Marilyn Smith, brother Kent Little and wife Jennifer, sister Kathryn Little, sister Kristine Markotay and husband John and sister Kara Faires, and numerous nieces and nephews. He also leaves behind, daughters Chelsey Little and Alexia Little, and grandchildren, Ali, Clayton, Layla, and Kobe.
He was preceded in death by his father, brother-in-law Greg Faires, beloved Uncle Rick Hays, and daughter Lauren Little.
Kevin leaves behind a musical legacy, as he was known throughout Southern Illinois for playing music with his best friend Steve Berry, in the band Little Berry Jam Band.
Per Kevin’s wishes, cremation rites will be accorded and a Celebration of Life Service will be held Thursday, October 10, 2024 at 6:30 PM at the Sutherland-Garnier Funeral Home in Centralia with Rev. Joannie Naraghi officiating. Visitation will be held Thursday evening from 4:00 PM until the time of service at the Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the family and will be accepted at the Sutherland-Garnier Funeral Home and Cremation Services at 235 North Sycamore Street Centralia, Illinois 62801, (618)532-3523, who is honored to be of service to Kevin’s Family. Online condolences may be made to the family by visiting www.sutherlandfuneralhome.com and the Funeral Home Facebook page.
