CENTRALIA — Gary Pokojski, 63, of Centralia, passed away Thursday, May 9, 2024 at SSM Health Good Samaritan Hospital in Mt. Vernon, Illinois.

He was born June 20, 1960 in Centralia, the son of Charles Pokojski and Beverly (Henderson) Pokojski.

Gary is survived by his Uncle Stanley Pokojski and wife Doris of Centralia, sister-in-law: Barbara Pokojski of Georgia, his nieces and nephews: Josh Pokojski of Centralia, Jesse Pokojski of Centralia, Jerry Free of South Carolina, David Pokojski of Georgia, Travis Pokojski of Chicago, Breeanna Pokojski of Centralia, Alexis Pokojski of Carlyle and several great-nieces and great-nephews and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his parents: Charles and Beverly Pokojski, two brothers: Kenneth Pokojski and Edward Pokojski, and a sister: Angela Pokojski.

Gary enjoyed playing football on his playstation and was an avid St. Louis Cardinals fan and Los Angeles Rams fan. You could find him riding his tricycle through the neighborhood. He loved visiting with people. Gary’s favorite drink and snacks were M&Ms, Oreos and a Coca-Cola. He will also be remembered for working at Centralia Home Center being the door greeter.

Funeral Services will be held Thursday, May 16, 2024 at 1:00 PM at the Sutherland-Garnier Funeral Home in Centralia. The family ask that you wear your favorite Cardinal attire or red and white in memory of Gary. Burial will follow at Hillcrest Memorial Park in Centralia. Visitation will be held Thursday from 12:00 PM until the time of service at the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Carlyle Healthcare Activity Fund 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 Gary’s Family. Online condolences may be made to the family by visiting www.sutherlandfuneralhome.com and the Sutherland Funeral Homes Facebook Page.