On June 12th, 2026, at the age of 93, Ralph Dean Dooley passed away peacefully, leaving behind a legacy of service, craftsmanship, lifelong friendships, and devotion to family.
In 1951, he answered the call to serve his country as a young man in the United States Marine Corps from 1951 to 1956. After his service, he was privileged to contribute to the Apollo Space Program as an electrical engineer. As someone who would never shy away from work, he owned and operated his own carpentry company, bringing beauty and elegance to the world through his craftsmanship. Ralph spent much of his time traveling the country, raising horses, and enjoying the freedom of his semi-retirement, but he still worked until late in his 70s.
More than any accomplishment, however, was the love he had for his family and friends. He remained a steady presence, a source of wisdom, the family clown, and a man whose strength could always be counted on when needed. Whether he was telling stories, offering advice, or simply being there when needed, he touched the lives of everyone around him in countless ways.
He is preceded by Marilyn Rutan (the love of his life) and his daughter Donna Sheridan. He is survived by his loving son, Thomas Eugene Dooley; daughter-in-law, Marquita Dooley; his two grandsons, Matthew and Lucas Dooley; his granddaughters, Kaleena Scoggins and Misty Lobrano; his granddaughters-in-law, Nichole Dooley and Clarissa Souci; his son-in-law, Jason Scoggins; his 11 great-grandchildren, and 5 great-great-grandchildren.
His family will remember him not only for what he accomplished, but for the character, kindness, and example he set throughout his long and remarkable life.
Ralph will be deeply missed, lovingly remembered, and forever held in the hearts of those who knew him. Semper Fidelis, Ralph.
Friends and family are invited to celebrate Ralph’s life and legacy during a visitation on Tuesday, June 16, 2026, from 12:00 pm to 1:00 pm at Sutherland-Garnier Funeral Home in Centralia, Illinois. His life will be honored with a private family burial at Ramsey Cemetery in Ramsey, Illinois at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Pine Ridge Reservation, https://indianyouth.org/give/, and will be accepted by the Sutherland-Garnier Funeral Home, 235 North Sycamore Street, Centralia, IL 62801, (618)532-3523, who is honored to be of service to Ralph’s family. Online condolences may be made by visiting www.sutherlandfuneralhome.com and the funeral home Facebook page.
