Robert Dale McMeen

We are saddened to announce the passing of Robert Dale McMeen who left this world on Tuesday, March 17, 2026, at the age of 89. The son of Robert Dwight McMeen and Elfie Louise (Hans) McMeen,Robert was born on August 2, 1936 in Centralia, IL. On January 18, 1981 he married Julia "Judy" Daugherty and she survives.

In addition to his devoted wife, Judy McMeen, of Centralia, Robert is survived by his cherished daughters, Lisa Robinson of Centralia, Valerie Pennington (David Udell)of St. Louis, MO, Peggy Stankoven (Rick) of Maryville, and Jenalee Trumbo (Donny) of Walnut Hill. He is also survived by sisters, Permelia Byrd of Centralia and Zettie Zayon (Joe) of Lumberton, TX, and brothers, Mike McMeen of Centralia and Gary McMeen (Carla) of Alma. His legacy extends to grandchildren, Jennifer Nuxoll of Centralia, Sara Nuxoll of Bolivar, MO, Randi Cox (Jeff Lockart) of Centralia, Cristi Hart (Tyler) of Williamsburg, David Stankoven (Danielle Kennedy) of Cobourg, Ontario and Jessica Stevenson (Steven Thomas) of St. Charles, MO, as well as five great-grandchildren and one on the way. He leaves behind a multitude of nieces, nephews, and friends who will miss him dearly.

Robert was preceded in death by his parents, brother William McMeen, sister Roselyn Lash, sisters-in-law Evelyn McMeen and Ruth McMeen, brothers-in-law Merle Lash and Lester Byrd, daughter Janae Crane, and son-in-law Darrell Robinson. His spirit will live on in the hearts of everyone he touched.

Robert was a native of Centralia, where he built a life centered around family, love, and community. He attended Central City Grade School and Centralia High School before serving his country as a seaman in the U.S. Navy. Robert then joined the CB&Q (later BNSF) railroad, working as a switchman/brakeman for 41 years until his retirement in 1998.

A man of great faith, Robert was a dedicated member of Central City Baptist Church and proudly supported his fellow veterans as a member of the American Legion. His hobbies included woodworking, traveling, fishing, and spending quality time with his beloved grandchildren. Known for his sense of humor and his love of Ford trucks. Robert was a genuine jokester who prioritized his family and valued integrity.

Family and friends are invited to pay their respects from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. Tuesday, March 24, 2026 at Sutherland-Garnier Funeral Home in Centralia. A funeral service honoring Robert's life will follow from 11 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. at the same location. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital or Six Lemons of Centralia and will be accepted by the Sutherland-Garnier Funeral Home, 235 North Sycamore Street Centralia, IL 62801, (618)532-3523, which is honored to be of service to Robert's family. Online condolences may be made by visiting www.sutherlandfuneralhome.com and the funeral home Facebook page. To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family please visit our Sympathy Store.

In memory of Robert Dale McMeen, we celebrate a life well-lived and a legacy of love, honor, and family that will endure for generations to come. We mourn his passing and cherish his memory.