Jack E. Cahill
Jack E. Cahill, age 79, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather whose greatest joy was his family, passed away peacefully at home with his loved ones by his side on Saturday, May 30, 2026. Jack was born December 5, 1946, in Lansing, Michigan, the son of Herman Cahill and Lepha (Fulton) Muzzy.
On November 12, 1966, Jack married the love of his life, Cheryl Gierzak. Together they shared nearly 60 years of marriage, building a life filled with love, laughter, and cherished memories.
Following his graduation from Charlotte High School in 1965, Jack began a career with General Motors, where he worked faithfully for more than 40 years. He was also a proud member of the Elks (B.P.O.E.) and remained actively involved with the Lansing Lodge for many years.
Jack embraced life and enjoyed many hobbies and adventures. He loved a good meal with family and friends, deer hunting, fishing, and traveling with friends. An avid sports enthusiast, he enjoyed golf, racquetball, bowling, and pickleball, and was a dedicated fan of the Michigan State Spartans. Some of his favorite memories were made riding his Ranger side-by-side through the beauty of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula and spending winters with Cheryl in The Villages, Florida.
Above all else, Jack was a family man. He was a proud and protective husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather who never hesitated to share his opinions. His children fondly remember the stern voice that could command attention in an instant, yet behind that strong exterior was a man whose love for his family ran deep. Jack’s presence provided strength, guidance, and unwavering support throughout their lives.
He is survived by his beloved wife, Cheryl; daughters, Kellie (Mark) Place, Tamara (John) Curtis, and Jolynn (Bryan) Smith; grandchildren, Garret Place, Zachary (Sarah) Place, Collin Curtis, Kent (Beth) Curtis, Emily (Donovan) Padecky, and Grace Childs; and great-grandchildren, Harper, Luca, Phillip, Madeline, Emerie, Brezlynn, Charlotte, Jaxson, and Amelia. Jack was preceded in death by his parents, Lepha (James) Muzzy; sisters, Joan Brodberg, Marcia Sandborn, and Barbara McGuirt; and brother-in-law, Leon Wood.
Friends are encouraged to support Jack’s family by attending services or sharing memories on his Tribute Page at www.prayfuneral.com.
Visitation was Thursday, June 4, from 6 to 8 p.m. at Pray Funeral Home. Funeral services were Friday, June 5 at 11 a.m. at Pray Funeral Home in Charlotte with Pastor John Bailey officiating. If desired, the family suggests memorial contributions to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.