CENTRALIA — Sharon Kay Keller, 83, of Centralia, passed away Wednesday, March 29, 2023.

She was born April 24, 1939, in Mason, Illinois, the daughter of Melvin Buchholz and Theta (Michael) Buchholz. She married Buster “Joe” Keller on May 9, 1960, in Mt. Vernon and he preceded her in death on May 4, 2009.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held at 6 p.m. Monday, April 3, 2023,  at Sutherland-Garnier Funeral Home in Centralia with Mike Sutherland officiating. Visitation will be held from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the family and will be accepted at Sutherland-Garnier Funeral Home at 235 North Sycamore Street Centralia, Illinois 62801, 618-532-3523, which is honored to be of service to the Keller family. Online condolences may be made to the family by visiting sutherlandfuneralhome.com and the Sutherland-Garnier Funeral Home Facebook page.

Sharon is survived by her two sons: Joe Allan Keller and Evelyn of Centralia and Ricky Lynn Keller and wife Rebecca of Centralia; six grandchildren: Jennifer Ann Keller, Ashley Kay Keller, Gary Don Keller, Harlie Keller, Zachery Keller and, Lazie Baugh; seven step-grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren three great-great-grandchildren; two sisters: Philena Steel of Effingham and Coral Ruffner of Decatur; several nieces and nephews; an uncle: Henry “Butch” Buchholz. of Louisberg, TN; and best friend of 50 some years: Rose Ann Pickett and her children.

She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, daughter-in-law: Suzette Keller, sister: Zella Lee Pruden, aunt: Nancy Buchholz, and best friend: Barbara Alli.

Sharon graduated in 1957 from Salem High School. She was a charter member of the Centralia Lady Elks and she was of the Protestant Faith. Sharon loved to cook “holiday” meals for her family. She was a well-known bartender for many years.