Ernie Dean Cates

Ernie Dean Cates, 88, of Bluford, IL, passed away at 10:30 am January 23, 2026 at his home in Bluford, IL. He was born March 19, 1937 in Jefferson County, Illinois to Ray and Mable (Case) Cates.. He married Betty (Hatman) Cates on March 06, 1990 she passed on April 26, 2016.

Ernie is survived by his Children; Terry (Gayla) Cremeens of Ferdinand, IN, Gary (Pam) Cremeens of Dix, IL, Sheila (Steve) Pierce of Dale, IN, Jerry (Anita) Peyton Enfield, IL, Stacy Huston of Wayne City, IL; GrandChildren, Kyle Cremeens, Derek Cremeens, Hillary Cremeens, Levi Cremeens, Lexi Cremeens-Dolby, Kendra Stevens, Cody Pierce, Jarod Peyton, Shelby Peyton, Rachael Peyton Mills, Riley Peyton, Nick Parson, Kastle Parson; Several Great GrandChildren and Several Great-Great GrandChildren; Several Nieces and Nephews.

Ernie was preceded in death by his Wife, Betty Cates; Parents; Sisters, Joanne and Rosemary; Brother Jr. "Burhead" Cates.

Ernie shared a passion for the outdoors from fishing to hunting, and was a great vegetable gardener . He was a great cook loved to cook for his family and friends. He was a member of the American Legion, Jefferson County Shriners, Jefferson County Masonic Lodge, Scottish Rights and Local Labor #520,.

A Visitation will be held Thursday, January 29, 2026 from 10:00 am to 12:00 pm at Hughey Funeral Home in Mount Vernon, IL. A Funeral Service will be held Thursday, January 29, 2026 at Hughey Funeral Home at 12:00 pm in Mount Vernon, IL, with Mr. Marty Mills officiating. Full Military Rites will be conducted by the American Legion Post #141 at the funeral home following the funeral. Interment will follow at Egbert Cemetery in Bluford, IL. Memorials may be made in Ernie's honor to the Donors Choice of Veterans Foundation.

Call Hughey Funeral Home at 618-242-3348 or visit hugheyfh.com for further information.