After 88 years on earth, and blessing everyone around him by his genuine love and gentle spirit, Jerry Cavitt Aken reached out and took the hand of Jesus on February 14, 2026. His final breath on earth was followed by his next breath in eternity where he will await his family to join him and celebrate with those who have been waiting for him.

Jerry was born on September 2, 1937 in Elkville, Illinois, to Bert and Lillian Aken. He attended Elkville High School and SIU Carbondale. On September 6, 1958, he married his sweetheart, Faye Ann Kopp. They enjoyed their life of 67 married years together, building a loving home with their children Steve, Amanda, and Beth.

His passion for learning continued throughout his entire life. As a young man, he was an avid hunter and fisherman. He taught for 6 years at Elkville High School and loved all the different jobs he performed during his 25 years at Captain Mine. During his life, not only did he get his pilot license, Jerry was also a certified electrician, certified in heating and air conditioning, made beautiful hand-carved woodwork, farmed a small lot of land, kept a beautiful garden, and in his later years, had a small fish farm.

In 1993, with a desire to serve the Lord full time, he received his Master's Degree in Ministry from Kentucky Christian College and served as a minister at Tamaroa Christian Church, First Christian Church in Christopher, and associate minister at Elkville Christian Church.

Jerry is survived by his wife, Faye Ann Aken, brother Larry Aken (and wife Sarah) and children, Steve Aken (wife Kris), Amanda Tomlinson (husband Tommy), and Beth Alongi (husband Guy). He was blessed with many precious grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Funeral services will be at 11:00 A.M., Wednesday, February 18, 2026 at the Elkville Christian Church in Elkville with Bro. Gary Pruitt and Bro. Ron Kreid officiating.

Friends may call from 9 A.M. until the time of service on Wednesday at the church.

Burial will be in the Elkville Cemetery in Elkville, IL.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be given to the Elkville Christian Church.

Searby Funeral Home in Du Quoin is in charge of arrangements.