Wille Eiljha McRath

Mr. Willie Elijah McRath Jr. December 23, 1970 – June 14, 2026 Teat Chapel Funeral home 10419 Lincoln Trail Fairview Height, Il 62208 June 29, 2026, 10: 00 AM LIFE REFLECTIONS In loving memory of Willie Elijah McRath Jr. who departed this life on June 14, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of warmth, kindness, and cherished memories. Born on December 23, 1970, in the vibrant city of St. Louis, Missouri, Willie was the beloved son of the late (Willie Elijah McRath Sr. and late sister Tina McRath) and Mrs. Margaret McRath Boyd. Willie was a man of many talents and passions, a trait he demonstrated throughout his life's journey. Educated in the East St. Louis public school district, he attended East St. Louis Senior High School, where he cultivated a lifelong love for learning and discovery. Willie dedication and diligence were not only evident in his professional life but also in his personal endeavors, such as his love for landscaping and working on cars—a skill he honed under the watchful eye of his father, affectionately known as "Big Wil." Willie's ability to transform a simple task into a work of art was mirrored by his relationships. He made friends easily, and his bond with them was as strong as any family tie. His warmth and generosity were known to many and cherished by all who had the privilege of knowing him. He leaves behind a family who adored him deeply. His loving mother, Margaret Boyd, remains his enduring legacy alongside his children: Daryl (Raven) McRath of St. Louis, Missouri, Tyneisha Golliday of East St. Louis, Illinois, India McRath of Cahokia, Illinois, and Wilesha McRath of Belleville, Illinois. His sisters, Genise McRath of Belleville, Illinois, and Sophia Jackson of East St. Louis, Illinois, will forever cherish his memory. Willie's family circle is further enriched by his two grandchildren. His beloved Aunt Vanessa Taylor of St. Louis, Missouri, and his uncle's Aaron McRath of O'Fallon, Illinois, James McRath of Belleville, Illinois, Bertram Hudson of Indianapolis, Indiana, and William Johnson of St. Louis, Missouri, along with a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends, will forever hold his memory close. Willie shared a very special friendship with Tracey Radom, whose companionship brought light and laughter to his life. Together, with all those who loved him, they will remember Willie for his infectious smile, his kind heart, and the joy he brought into their lives. A service honoring Willie Elijah McRath will be held on June 29, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at the Teat Chapel Funeral Home, located at 10419 Lincoln Trail, Fairview Heights, IL 62208. Evangelist Vanessa Taylor will deliver the eulogy, celebrating a life well-lived and a soul now at peace. Following the service, interment will take place at Holy Cross Cemetery in Fairview Heights, Illinois. Order of Service Processional........ Scripture...... Old Testament / New Testament Prayer....... Solo..............Lisa Johnson Acknowledgments of Cards and Condolences Life’s Reflections (Read Silently) Soft Music Solo...................... Expressions of Love (three minutes) ....... Eulogy .................Evangelist Vanessa Taylor Parting View Benediction Recessional Acknowledgement of Appreciation The Family of the late Mr. Willie Elijha McRath wish to express our sincere and heartfelt Thank You to those of you who have shown expressions of sympathy to us. Your kindness and love is greatly appreciated. May God richly bless you. Active Pallbearers Daryl McRath Quontez McRath Derrez McRath-Briggs Raymond Johnson James Nelson Willie Robinson I’m Free Don’t grieve for me for now I’m free, I’m following the path God laid for me I took his hand when I heard him call, I turned my back and left it all I could not stay another day, To laugh, to love, to work or play Tasks left undone must stay that way, I’ve found that peace at the close of day If my parting has left a void, Then fill it with remembered joy A friendship shared, a laugh, a kiss, Ah yes, these things I too will miss Be not burdened with times of sorrow, I wish for you the sunshine of tomorrow My life’s been full, I’ve savored much, Good friends, good times, my loved one’s touch If my time seemed all too brief, Don’t lengthen it now with undue grief Lift up your heart, rejoice with me, God wanted me now, He set me free. May we all find solace in the cherished memories we hold and take comfort in knowing that Willie is at peace.