Allen Dale Roper, beloved father, grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully on Saturday, March 28, 2026, at the age of 76 in Centralia, Illinois. Born on Monday, December 26, 1949, in Centralia, Illinois, the son of Carroll Roper and Maxine (Howard) Roper. In 1978, Allen Dale married the love of his life, Loretta Doszak, and on March 9, 2004, she preceded him in death at the age of 60.
Allen was a beacon of strength and kindness, known for his unwavering dedication to his family, community, and country.
Allen proudly served in the Marine Corps during the Vietnam War, an experience that shaped his steadfast character and instilled in him a profound sense of duty. After his military service, he dedicated his career to the Joliet Correctional Center, where he worked as a Sergeant until his retirement. Throughout his professional life, Allen earned the respect and admiration of his colleagues and community for his integrity and compassion.
A Centralia resident, Allen enjoyed spending his mornings with a hot cup of coffee on the porch, savoring the tranquility of the early hours. He possessed a love for the outdoors and could often be found hunting and fishing, pastimes that brought him great joy and peace. Above all, Allen cherished the moments spent with his family, whom he regarded as his world.
Allen is survived by his three devoted sons: Ray Roper and wife Diane of Centralia, Robbie Roper and wife Kristi of Joliet, and Mike Roper along with Ashley Freeman of Joliet; and his eight beloved grandchildren: Jake Roper and wife Peyton, Brianna Roper and special friend Kellen, Blake Roper, James Dimmick, Katelyn Roper, Dillon Roper, Benson Roper, and Ivy Roper.
He is preceded in death by his cherished wife, Loretta Roper, his parents, Carroll and Maxine Roper, and his brother, Ray Dean Roper.
Funeral services to honor Allen’s life will be held on Tuesday, April 7, 2026, at 11:00 AM at the Sutherland-Garnier Funeral Home in Centralia, with Pastor Scott Broughton officiating. A burial service will follow at Hillcrest Memorial Park in Centralia, Illinois, where military honors will be conducted by the Centralia American Legion Post 446 and the Centralia V.F.W. Post 2055. Friends and family are invited to gather for a visitation on Tuesday morning from 10:00 AM until the time of the service at the Funeral Home.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital. They will be accepted at the Sutherland-Garnier Funeral Home, located at 235 North Sycamore Street, Centralia, Illinois 62801. The family extends their gratitude to the Sutherland-Garnier Funeral Home for their compassionate support and service. Online condolences may be shared with Allen’s family by visiting www.sutherlandfuneralhome.com and the Funeral Home’s Facebook page. To send flowers or memorial gifts, please visit our Sympathy Store on our Website.
