Ernest L. Cleveland

Ernest L. Cleveland
Waverly - Ernest L. Cleveland, age 76, of Waverly, Il. passed away peacefully at home on October 1, 2025.
He was born December 5, 1948 in Waverly, the son of the late Thomas F. and Katherine M. Hickman Cleveland.
Ernest married Marcia A. Lawson on June 8, 1969 and she survives.
Also surviving are their five children, Angela R. Kessinger (Randy) of Dahlonega, Ga., Brett A. Cleveland (Kim) of Albany, Ga., Christopher L. Cleveland (Rischshonda) of Buffalo, Ky., Scott W. Cleveland (Tiffany) of Jacksonville, Il., and Matthew M. Cleveland (Megan) of Waverly, Il.; grandchildren, Kyle, Bryan, Shelby, Jacob, Rachel, Addie, Jennifer, Zachary, Courtney, Hayden, Grace, Emma, Molly, Callie, and Collyns; great-grandchildren, Ryliegh, Whitley and Turner; a sister, Sondra K. Prine; along with several nieces and nephews and cousins.
In addition to his parents, Ernest was preceded in death by a granddaughter, Whitney Cleveland; a brother, Michael T. Cleveland; and a sister, Mary K. Jones.
Ernest attended elementary and high school in Waverly. He then volunteered for the U.S. Army, serving in Vietnam when he earned several medals/commendations. Following his military service, Ernest was a semi driver for many years. He also served as the mayor of Waverly for 20 years, serving five consecutive terms. For the past 23 years, he, along with Marcia, owned/operated Poppies Corner in Waverly. In his free time, Ernest enjoyed hunting and fishing, as well as spending time with his family and friends.
Visitation will be held from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. Monday (October 6, 2025) at Neece-Airsman-Hires Funeral Home in Waverly, Il. Burial will be 10 a.m. Tuesday at Waverly East Cemetery where military rites will be conducted. Memorials may be made to Waverly Lions Club and sent to Neece-Airsman-Hires Funeral Home, 349 E. Tanner, Waverly, Il. 62692. Condolences may be made to the family online at www.airsman-hires.com.