David Lee Perkins

David Lee Perkins, age 77 of Centralia, IL, passed away on Friday, January 15, 2016 at SSM St. Mary’s Hospital in Centralia. David was born on September 15, 1938 in Centralia, a son to Fredrick and Ethel (Truitt) Perkins. He married Rosanna West on January 29, 1960 in Centralia and she survives. In addition to his wife David is also survived by his daughter, Marla McDaneld and husband Mick of Kell, IL; one grandson, Dylan McDaneld of Maryland Heights, MO; a sister, Diane Woolbright; one nephew, two nieces and several great-nephews and great-nieces. He was preceded in death by his parents; mother-in-law, Anna Mae Gramlick; father-in-law, George West; and two brothers-in-law, Lanny West and Jack Woolbright. David was of the Baptist faith. He was a member of the Centralia Elk Lodge 493 and served as a Past Exalted Ruler. He attended grade school and high school in Centralia and graduated from Centralia Township High School in 1956. In October 1956, he enlisted in the Army Reserves and served two months basic training in Fort Leonardwood, MO. He then was stationed in Fort Eustis, VA for four months. He then served four and a half year in the active Reserves. In October 1957, he was employed by the Illinois Central Railroad and served an apprenticeship and became a blacksmith. In January 1964, he was employed by the U.S. Postal Service as a career clerk carrier. In January 1968, he was hired as a meter reader by Illinois Power. In April 1969, he started and served a three year apprenticeship, becoming a lineman by 1973. In 1980, he was promoted to line Foreman. In 1987, he changed to service truck, retiring in 1996. David enjoyed fishing and hunting. He loved his wife and his family and truly enjoyed his life. Funeral services for David Lee Perkins will be held on Monday, January 18, 2016 at 12:00 P.M. at Sutherland-Garnier Funeral Home in Centralia with Pastor Randy Hayes officiating. Interment will follow at Hillcrest Memorial Park in Centralia. Visitation will be on Sunday from 4:00 P.M. until 7:00 P.M. at the funeral home with an Elks service at 7:00 P.M. Memorial donations may be made to the Elks Children’s Care.

David Lee Perkins

September 15, 1938 - January 15, 2016