George Edward Sebree

With full and loving hearts, the family of George Edward Sebree announces his peaceful passing on November 30, 2025, at the age of 99. Born on July 17, 1926, in Canton, Illinois, he was the cherished son of Hester A. (Wysong) and Harry L. Sebree, raised on the Sebree family farm where the values of hard work, integrity, and devotion to family were instilled.

On April 16, 1955, he married the love of his life, Karolyn A. (Woodcock) Sebree, beginning a 70-year partnership filled with companionship and adventure.

He was the proud father of George H. (Gail) Sebree, Canton, IL, Janice C. (Scott) Baker, Belleville, IL, Stephen B. (Margo) Sebree, M. Susan (John) Nell, Newberry, FL

Grandfather to: David (Amy) Baker, Edwardsville, IL; Dana (Brett) Line, Belleville, IL; Daryl (Heather) Baker, Mapleton, IL; Devin Baker, Mobile, AL; Deanna (Brandon) Ewing, Cartersville, GA; Eric (Beth) Sebree, Lewistown, IL; Heidi Schiff, Mesa, AZ; Stephanie (Jeff) Carrier, Casa Grande, AZ; Amy (Ray) Bergevin, Peoria, IL; Carrie (Mike) Rickey, Osprey, FL; Danielle (Andy) Empey, Morton, IL; Kathy (Trevor) Plankenhorn, Gainesville, FL; and Sarah (Chris) Houze, Archer, FL

Step-grandfather to: Erin (Tony) Wuebbling, Canton, IL; and Aubrey Courtney, Canton, IL; as well as numerous great and great-great grandchildren.

He is preceded in death by his parents; his sisters, Dorothy L. Jones and Charlotte Phillips; an infant brother, James, and his son Stephen B. Sebree.

In his early years, he contributed to the family business, Sebree Dairy, which served the Canton community until 1958. He also served proudly in the United States Navy. After returning home, he spent decades working the land he loved as a farmer at Sebree Farms, retiring in 1987.

In 1988, he and Karolyn began a new chapter in Venice, Florida. Never one to sit still for long, he worked at Mission Valley Country Club until retiring again in 1998. He was a member of Church of the Palms in Sarasota, Fl where he grew a deep devotion to the Lord. Retirement brought the joy of travel, and together he and Karolyn explored the United States and Canada by motor coach, visiting every state except Hawaii. In 2023, he and Karolyn returned to Canton.

He was known for his playful sense of humor and his constant singing, always keeping us smiling and laughing. He kept meticulous records and kept everything organized and in good running order. He adored his many pets: Kay-Gee, Dalai, Sebastian, Sylvester, Missy, and Sammy. And he especially loved Karolyn’s desserts, never happier than when she made his family’s treasured recipe for Chocolate Steamed Pudding, with the topping affectionately known as “Goop.” His presence brought joy and laughter to all he met and his absence will be felt profoundly.

Funeral Arrangements

Visitation will be held from 2:00 PM – 3:00 PM on Wednesday, December 3, 2025 at Sedgwick Funeral Homes & Crematory in Canton, IL. Memorial Service will be held the same day at 3:00 PM at the funeral home. Son-in-law, Scott Baker will officiate. Cremains burial will take place at Greenwood Cemetery in Canton, Illinois at a later date.

The family invites all who knew and loved him to gather, share memories, and celebrate a life beautifully lived. The family will have a gathering after the service at the Canton Elk's Lodge. 

In lieu of flowers, please send donations in his name to the Humane Society.

May his legacy of humor and love continue through the many people whose lives he touched.