A Mass of Christian of Burial was conducted at 11 a.m. Wednesday, Dec. 14, 2022, at St. Peter Catholic Church in Bassfield with interment following at St. James Cemetery. Father Tomasz Golab officiated.  Mr. Cavanaugh, age 86, entered into the eternal rest of his Lord late Saturday afternoon, Dec. 10, 2022, at his residence in Bassfield.

A wake was held Tuesday evening, Dec 13, 2022, from 5:30 p.m. until 8 p.m. with a Rosary service at 6 p.m. at the St. Peter Parish Hall.

Serving as pallbearers were Billy Cavanaugh, Dylan Cavanaugh, Jacob Cavanaugh, Seth Aultman, Brandon Grubbs and Trey Nichols.

George Edward Cavanaugh was born on Jan. 26, 1936, in Bassfield, to James Bernard and Mary Elizabeth Kirby Cavanaugh.  George went to St. Peter Catholic School in Bassfield until it closed and then enrolled in Bassfield High School, where he graduated.  Soon after, he went to work for McNeese Motors in Columbia and then went to work for Forbes Motors and Red Carpet Motors, also in Columbia, where he earned the reputation as an excellent mechanic.  Afterwards, George would begin his career serving the citizens of Jefferson Davis County, Beat 3, when he went to work for Supervisor John Thompson.  It was here that he retired after many years as a Road Foreman.

In 1964, the handsome George Cavanaugh took the beautiful Earnestine “Cissie” Cavanaugh as his bride.  Together, he and his beloved “Birdie D”, as he affectionately called her, would enjoy over 57 years of marriage.  To this union, two daughters, two sons and a host of grandchildren and great-grandchildren would be added. The family remarks that George was the best Daddy anyone could ever have, and he loved them unconditionally.

George had several past times that he enjoyed including reading, quail hunting and gardening.  Family and friends, alike, will remember the beautiful gardens that George raised.  Corn, peas and tomatoes were always plentiful, but it was well known that no one could grow okra like George.  His “Birdie D” was a fabulous cook and he enjoyed watching her prepare meals. He especially loved her cornbread.  It’s been said that every night, George wanted this southern staple along with peas for his supper. Interestingly, the children quip that their Daddy had a nickname for everyone. Over the years, he had many dogs, but after his beloved wife passed away, “It” became his faithful companion, enjoying hours of sitting on George’s lap and never allowing George out of his sight. Nicknamed “It” because he was truly the master and commander of the house, this beloved pet was truly all that and “It”.   George Cavanaugh was a reminder that good, upstanding men still exist, and his family takes great comfort in knowing that their Daddy and Papaw has been reunited with his “Birdie D” and together, they are enjoying Heaven.

George was preceded in death by his wife of over 57 years, Earnestine “Cissy” Cavanaugh;  his parents; brothers, Barney Cavanaugh, Lawrence “Pappy” Cavanaugh, Maurice Cavanaugh and a sister, Christine Cavanaugh.

His memory will be forever cherished by two daughters, Gracie Cavanaugh Beech (Artie) of Sumrall, Kay Cavanaugh of Bassfield; two sons, Edward “Ed” Cavanaugh and George Ray “Coconut” Cavanaugh, both of Bassfield; two sisters, Mary Louise Burt of Monticello, Dorothy Ann Divine of Canton; and a brother, Johnny Cavanaugh of Oloh. The legacy of their Papaw will also live on through his grandchildren; they include, Shane Berry, Seth Aultman, Reagan Beech, Jason McPhail, Sarah Camp, Anna Harvison, Dylan Cavanaugh, Billy “Wild Bill” Cavanaugh, Jacob Cavanaugh, Brandon Grubbs, Trey Nichols, Jessica Smith, Ronnie Smith, Riley Smith, Zetta Foshee, Zaylin Foshee and eight great-grandchildren.

Online condolences and a guest registry are available at www.saultersmoorefuneralhome.com.