Thomas Claude Cathey, 90, of Granite City, Illinois passed away on Wednesday, June 25, 2025, at Mercy Hospital in Creve Coeur, Missouri.
He was born April 12, 1935, in Bear Spring, Tennessee, the son of the late Thomas and Gladys (McClannahan) Cathey.
Thomas was a meat cutter with over 20 years of service working for Kelly’s Meat Market and Cionko’s in Granite City.
The United States Army veteran proudly served his country during World War II. He had served in Germany with Elvis Presley and under the commanding officer of Colin Powell. He was a faithful member of the First Presbyterian Church in Granite City and was a member of the Granite City Masonic Lodge and was a Shriner. He enjoyed his days of bowling and working at the Tri-Mor Bowl for several years. He was an avid collector of stamps and enjoyed fishing.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife of 48 years, Carol L. (Johnson) Cathey and three sisters, Carol Charter, Janie Cathey and Betty Watson.
He is survived by his special love of seven years, Joy Edwards of Granite City and her family, Curt Edwards of Florida, Brad Edwards of Florida, Brian Edwards of Granite City, Emily Edwards and Melissa Edwards; a step-daughter, Laura Merz of Granite City; a step-son, Max Merz of Granite City; three step-grandchildren, Hannah, Mark and Lucas; two nieces, Susan Cathey Charter of Texas and Cathy Watson of Texas; two nephews, Thomas Richard Charter of Belleville and Dr. Jeffrey Watson of Texas; a cousin, Sandy Kozyak of Granite City; other extended family and many dear friends.
In celebration of his life, visitation will be at the First Presbyterian Church, 2160 Delmar Avenue in Granite City on Wednesday, July 16, 2025, from 10:00 a.m. until time of a service at 11:30 a.m. with Rev. Jack Jenkins officiating.
Burial with full military honors will follow at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery in St. Louis, Missouri.
Memorials may be made to the First Presbyterian Church in Granite City.
