Donald “Don” Dale Massie, 82, of Carterville, died Thursday, May 8, 2025, at Memorial Hospital in Carbondale.
Funeral services were held Tuesday, May 13, at Riggin-Pillatsch and Burke Funeral Home in Carterville, with Pastor Larry Gilbert officiating. Burial was in Willowrest Cemetery in Carterville.
Mr. Massie was born on Dec. 14, 1942, in Pontiac, to Dale Eugene and Emma Pauline (Gould) Massie. He married Oleta Ruth Stephenson on July 3, in Normal, and she survives. Together they shared 61 wonderful years.
Mr. Massie dedicated over 32 years to teaching in Staunton, where he taught business and served as the football coach. He also spent a brief time teaching in the Hillsboro School District. After retiring from education, Mr. Massie stayed active by working at NAPA Auto Parts in Carterville for more than 14 years. He was a devoted member of Carterville First United Methodist Church.
An avid golfer, he also enjoyed reading, fishing and was a proud season ticket holder for SIU Athletics.
In addition to his wife, Oleta, he is survived by a son, John Massie; daughters, Laura (Blake) Linders, Amy (Ralph) Behrens, Jennifer (Barry) Smith and Sarah (Dan) Kakareka; grandchildren, Alexandra Linders, Jacob (Olivia) Linders, Matthew Linders, Nathan Linders, Brenden Buzick, Austin Behrens, Casey Behrens, Kaitlyn Smith, Nicholas Smith, John Kakareka, and Jordan Kakareka; great-grandchildren, Camden Buzick and Maverick Buzick; brother, Ronald Massie; and many nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents.
Memorial contributions can be made to the City of Carterville-Meals on Mondays.
For more information, visit rigginpillatschburkefh.com.
