Harry Dean Garren Sr., 98 of Taylorville, passed away on Friday, January 31, 2025, at Pana Community Hospital.  He was born on May 21, 1926, in Centralia, the son of Ralph and Mildred Evelyn (Banks) Garren.  He married Shirley Chaney and they later divorced.  He then married Mary Kathryn “Kay” Burgener on May 27, 1973, in Taylorville and she preceded him in death on September 29, 1978.  Harry attended school in Centralia.  He was a World War II veteran of the U. S. Army serving in Okinawa, Japan near the end of the war.  He worked as a truck driver and painter.  He was a member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church, Knights of Columbus, and the V.F.W.  Throughout the years he enjoyed woodworking and flying, having obtained his pilot’s license.  More than anything he enjoyed spending time with his family.

He is survived by his children: David Garren of Brainerd, Minnesota, Harry Garren Jr. of Petaluma, California, and Regina Jones (Robert Gipson) of Taylorville; grandchildren: Frank Garren, Mary Johnston, LeeAnn Wheeler, Matthew Garren, Logan Jones, Kaylee Howe (Tanner), Tanner Jones (Kailee Griffith), and Dylan Jones (Tayler Argo); several great grandchildren including: Oakley Jones and another due in June; and several nieces and nephews who affectionately knew him as “Unk”.  He was preceded in death by his parents; siblings: Mary Elizabeth Garren, Donald Garren, Kenneth Garren, Francis Garren, Margaret Smith, and Phyllis Irvin; and son-in-law: Gary Jones.

A memorial mass for Harry will take place at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, February 7, 2025, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Taylorville with Fr. John Burnette officiating.  The visitation will be held one hour prior to the mass in the church.  Inurnment, with military honors, will take place at Oak Hill Cemetery in Taylorville.  Memorials may be made to St. Mary’s Catholic School.  McClure Funeral Home and Cremation Services in Taylorville is assisting the family with arrangements.