Jeff Caple
Fairview Heights | Save
Jeff Eugene Caple, 96, passed away on October 29, 2026, at Christian Hospital in St. Louis, Missouri, with his beloved daughter at his side. Born on October 16, 1930, in Lake City, Arkansas, Jeff was the son of the late Jeff Lee and Minnie Myrtle (née Brown) Caple.
Jeff served his country in the United States Army before beginning a long career with True Manufacturing, where he worked as a sheet metal operator for 37 years. He was a hardworking man by nature, with a talent for fixing just about anything. His hands were rarely idle, and he took great pride in putting his skills to good use for the people he loved.
On August 22, 1953, Jeff married the love of his life, Betty Evelyn Adams, in Mississippi. Together, they built a beautiful family on a foundation of hard work, love, and faith. Their marriage spanned nearly 70 years, until Betty's passing on March 11, 2023. Jeff and Betty were also dedicated members of the Grace Baptist Church congregation.
A gifted woodworker, Jeff built the kitchen cabinets in his family's home. He was the man relatives could count on when something needed fixing or renovating. Jeff’s willingness to help others was simply part of who he was, and he used his many talents and know-how to make life a little easier for the people he cared about.
Some of Jeff's happiest memories were made in the company of his family. When his children were young, he enjoyed taking them fishing at Horseshoe Lake. In retirement, he remained active in his church and was a member of the “ROMEO Club” (Retired Old Men Eat Out). Wednesday mornings often found Jeff and his friends gathered at Uncle Linny's, sharing breakfast and camaraderie.
Whether working on a project, chatting with friends, or simply being with his loved ones, Jeff found fulfillment in the everyday moments. Above all else, Jeff was devoted to his family. He was a steady, dependable presence in their lives. His family will remember him for the love and care he put into the life he built with them.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Jeff and Minnie Caple; his wife, Betty Caple; his son, Jim Caple of Granite City; his grandchildren, Brandon Caple and Matthew Sabo; and his siblings, Caroldia Caple, Ivon Caple, Lula Mitchem, Robert Caple, and Vendle Mathenia.
He leaves to cherish his memory his devoted daughter, Deborah South of Edwardsville; his granddaughter, Jamie; his great-grandchildren, Cara, Devin, Jesalin, Lexi, Mackenzie, and Paige; his great-great-grandchildren, Everest and Raelynn; his niece, Elizabeth (Mary) Renaker; bonus granddaughters, Ashley and Katie and many extended relatives, friends, and neighbors who will miss him dearly.
Visitation for Jeff will be held at Irwin Chapel in Granite City on Tuesday, November 3, 2026, from 10:00 AM. until 11:30 AM. Funeral services will follow immediately at 11:30 AM, with Dr. Daniel Wilson officiating.
Jeff will be laid to rest at Lakeview Memorial Gardens, where he will be reunited with his love Betty.
In Jeff's honor, memorial contributions may be made to Grace Baptist Church.
Irwin Chapel Funeral Home
