Willie Cavitt, 79 of Metropolis, IL, passed away on August 28, 2026 at Southgate Nursing and Rehabilitation Center.

A joint celebration of life for him and his wife, Vera L. Cavitt, will be held at 12:00 noon on Saturday, November 14, 2026 at Aikins-Farmer-Loftus-McManus Funeral Home.

Willie was a proud United States Army veteran and distinguished 33rd Degree Mason. Following his military service, he began his career as a correctional officer in Centrailia, Illinois, before transferring to Vienna Correctional Center, where he retired after years of dedicated service.

Willie had a love for cars and a passion for dressing sharp, earning him the reputation of a “sharp-dressed man.” He never met a stranger, always had a story to tell, and could strike up a conversation with anyone. With a heart of gold, Willie was the type of man who would give the shirt off his back to help someone in need.

Above all, Willie adored his beloved wife, Vera. He truly worshipped the ground she walked on and made it his mission to ensure she never wanted or needed for anything. He proudly made it known that Vera was his everything and his reason for living. His love for her was evident not only in his words but in everything he did.

Willie also treasured his grandchildren, always sharing his wisdom, offering advice, and teaching valuable life lessons. He will forever be remembered for his generosity, his unforgettable personality, his devotion to family, and the extraordinary love he had for his wife.

Willie is survived by his wife of 10 years, Vera Cavitt; sons, Christopher Rush (Keysha), DeMika Rush (Nicole) both of Davenport, Iowa and daughters, DeWanda (Jessie) Cannon and T’Erricka Rush; 23 grandchildren, Christopher Rush Jr. (Lisa), Kiah Wilson, Mason Boyer, Jonas Ross, Averyon Ross, Devon Rush, Jayshawn Willis, Elizah Rush, DeMika Rush Jr., Deja Rush, J’Terra Burge, Demonte Harper, Alexis Harper, Christion Fidalgo (BriAunna), Aalijah “Lili” Thomas, Jocelyn Hearn, Jewlian Hearn, Jaicey Edwards, Jaida Rush and Aniya Hearn; a host of great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Willie E. and Lucille (Cole) Cavitt; daughter, Reneé Rush; grandchildren, Devante Portillio-Rush and Tian Rush; sisters, Gustavia and Jean.

Condolences for the family may be left online at www.aikinsfarmer-millerfh.com.