On the morning of July 9, 2026, Cecil Carl McWhorter age 86, of Salem, Illinois, left this earthly world.
He was born on April 14, 1940, in Cook County, Illinois, the son of Ralph and Marie (Kiefer) McWhorter and grew up in Effingham (Heartville).
On May 20, 1979, Cecil married the love of his life, Joyce Maxedon, in Salem. Together they shared more than 47 years of marriage, building a life centered on faith, family, and love.
Cecil retired as a Head Pressman from World Color Press after many years of dedicated service. Afterward, Cecil attended Rend Lake College and earned a certificate in Horticulture, of which he was very proud. He proudly served his country in the United States Army and was a member of the Salem American Legion.
A man of deep faith, Cecil grew up in the Catholic Church and later became a devoted member of Salem Lutheran Church. He enjoyed tending his garden, cheering on the Notre Dame Fighting Irish and the St. Louis Cardinals, riding his golf cart around town and spending time on the golf course. Above all, he treasured the time he spent with his family and friends.
He is survived by his loving wife, of 47 years, Joyce McWhorter of Salem; three children, Doug McWhorter and wife Donna of Nashville, Tennessee, Kay Elizabeth McWhorter and significant other Jesse Sweeney of Nashville, Tennessee, and Gary McWhorter and wife Anna of Grayslake, Illinois; grandchildren, who lovingly called him Goofy Grandpa, Dylan McWhorter and wife Amber, David McWhorter and fiancée Brenda Goddard, Shelby Sweeney, and Samantha McWhorter; six great-grandchildren; siblings, Gloria Jean Shadwell and husband Jay of Freedom, California, David McWhorter and wife Marianne of Germany, and Danny McWhorter and wife Laura Ann of Greensboro, North Carolina; his special friend, Charles Steckenrider of Mt. Vernon; along with several nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents; his brother, Ralph McWhorter; his sister, Evelyn June Arnold; and his nephew, J.T. Arnold.
Funeral services for Cecil Carl McWhorter will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Tuesday, July 14, 2026, at Crouse Funeral Home in Salem. Visitation will be from 11:00 a.m. until the time of the service at the funeral home. Interment will follow at Dunkard Cemetery (Romine Brethren Cemetery), Cartter, Illinois, where military honors will be conducted by the Salem American Legion. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Mission Salem and can be received at Crouse Funeral Home. Online condolences can be left at www.CrouseFH.com
