Caniff, Elva

Elva E. Caniff, nee Drew, 74, of New Memphis, died Wednesday, August 12, 2009 at Clinton Manor Nursing Home in New Baden, IL. She was born September 26, 1934 in Evansville, IN, daughter of Arval and Edith (Hobbs) Drew. She married Walter L. Caniff, Sr. on November 29, 1952 in East St. Louis and he preceded her in death on June 16, 2002. Mrs. Caniff is survived by her children, Dixie J. Suchier or Lake Worth, Fl, Carol A. (Myron) Singler of New Memphis, IL, Debra K. Caniff of Archer City, Tx, Thomas F. Caniff of St. Jacob, IL, Candy S. (James) Wiscombe of Mascoutah, IL, Walter L. Caniff, Jr. of Lake Worth, Fl.; 26 grandchildren, 30 great-grandchildren; a brother, Michael Goald of Graham, Tx; and a sister, Crystal E. Drew of Florida. In addition to her parents and husband, she was preceded in death by two sons, Gary L. Caniff and Danny D. Caniff; a brother, Billy Drew; and a sister, Laura Pruitt. Mrs. Caniff was a homemaker. Memorial services will be held at 6:30 p.m. on Monday, August 17, 2009 at First Baptist Church in Mascoutah with Rev. Duane Smith officiating. Friends may call from 5 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. Monday, August 17, 2009 at the church. Memorials may be made to the family and will be accepted at the church or Hempen Funeral Home in New Baden, IL.