Cecil J. Poe (94) of Effingham

Cecil J. Poe, 94, of Effingham, IL, passed away Thursday, March 31, 2022 at HSHS St. Anthony’s Memorial Hospital in Effingham surrounded by family. The Lord welcomed the most gentle and generous soul into His Kingdom.

A memorial service will be held at 11:00 a.m. Monday, April 4, 2022, at Johnson Funeral Home in Effingham. Burial will be in Oak Ridge Cemetery in Effingham with military rites. Visitation will be held from 9:30 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. Monday prior to the service at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital in honor of Cecil’s great-grandson, Preston Martinez. Online condolences may be shared by clicking here. 

Cecil was born on December 28, 1927, in Effingham County, IL, the son of Elwood and Lulu (Glover) Poe. He was married to Betty J. Meyer and she preceded him in death on January 13, 2019. Cecil served his country in the United States Navy during World War II. Cecil and Betty opened their home taking care of grandchildren and their friends’ children. His grandchildren will have such wonderful memories with him. He was a member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church and Effingham Knights of Columbus Council #665. Cecil was a carpenter his whole life. He was an avid woodworker, hunter, and fisherman, and loved working in his garden.

Cecil is survived by his children, Debbie (Mike) Myers of Conway, AR, Donald (Judy) Poe of Naples, FL, David (Carolyn) Poe of Effingham, Douglas (Peggy) Poe of Effingham, and Daylene (Randy) Johnson of Effingham; 18 grandchildren; 20 great-grandchildren; brothers, Bud Poe and Ron (Thelma) Poe; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Betty; daughter, Deanne Huey; grandson, Brandon Poe; grand-daughter-in-law, Penny Johnson; sisters, Anna Mae, Vera, and Esta; and brothers, Elvin and Ira.