Caren Sue Waltrip-Sexton, of Jacksonville, IL was born on June 15, 1960, the daughter of John C. and Ruth A. (Weller) Waltrip.

Caren passed away at her home in Jacksonville on November 26th, 2024, surrounded by family and close friends.

Caren attended Jacksonville High School. She lived for a period of time in San Francisco, CA and returned to Jacksonville to work at The Illinois School for the Deaf.

Caren married David Sexton, the love of her life, on October 21, 1989. He preceded her in death. In addition to her husband, Caren was preceded in death by her parents; maternal and paternal grandparents; and her brothers, Charles Earl Waltrip and William Timothy Waltrip.

Caren is survived by her sons, Timothy (Rachel) Waltrip of Bethalto, Joshua Sexton of Jacksonville, and her stepdaughter, Heather Williams of Springfield. She is also survived by her grandchildren, Jayce Sexton, Korbin Waltrip, Sage Waltrip, Fiona Waltrip, Dylan Furkin, Parker Furkin, Mia Williams and Ava Williams; her brothers Steve (JoEllen) Waltrip of Punta Gorda FL, and David (Tara) Waltrip of Weldon Spring MO; and her uncle, Gale (Bonnie) Waltrip of Jacksonville. Caren is also survived by numerous cousins, nieces, nephews, great nieces and great nephews.

She was a member of First Christian Church in South Jacksonville and participated in numerous civic organizations. She was a member of the Prairie Land Heritage Museum, the Morgan County Garden Club, and the Auxiliary of the Marine Corps League of West Central Illinois. She volunteered countless hours to these organizations. Caren was proud that her father and brother, David, served in active duty with the Marine Corps and was a fervent supporter of the Marine Corps League.

Caren took great pride working in her flower gardens as well as making and maintaining floral displays for many organizations, family, and friends. Caren also enjoyed baking for the holidays and spending time with family and friends. She opened her heart and home to many pets over the years. Her beloved fur babies, Jace and Luna, will continue to share hugs and love with her family.

Rather than a memorial service, Caren chose to have a Celebration of Life at the Prairie Land Heritage Museum in February of 2024, where she was able to spend time with many family and friends.

The Buchanan & Cody Funeral Home in Jacksonville is assisting the family. Memorials may be made to the Morgan County Garden Club, the Marine Corps League of West Central Illinois, or the Prairie Land Heritage Museum. Condolences may be left at buchanancody.com.