Belleville, Il - Ernest M. Cupp, 79, of Belleville, IL, passed away peacefully on August 9, 2025, in Cahokia Heights, IL. He was born on July 4, 1946, in London, KY to Dave and Margie (Bryant) Cupp and his parents preceded him in death. He was also preceded in death by his sisters, Billie Davis and Shirley Hammons, his brother, Carl Cupp and brothers-in-law, Ray Hammons and Ed Davis.

Ernest was a proud veteran of both the United States Air Force and the United States Coast Guard. After his honorable service, he worked as a civil engineer until his retirement.

A talented craftsman, he spent many years building custom cabinets and furniture. He had a keen mind for building and fixing anything and everything. His love for bass fishing filled many hours in his younger years, and he gained some notoriety on the professional fishing tournament circuit.

He will be remembered as a loving father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, uncle and dear friend of many. Left to cherish his memory are his daughters Misty Mason, of Belleville, IL and Karen Snyder, of Canton, GA; grandchildren Garret Snyder, Caitlin Snyder, Kylie Ray, and Maggie Mason; great-grandchildren Sophia Richardson, Quincey Ray, Kléo Sanders and Jacob Snyder; and dear friend Marie Cupp, in addition to many nieces, nephews, extended family and beloved friends.

A private graveside memorial will be held in his hometown of London, Kentucky. Memorial contributions in memory of Ernest M. Cupp may be directed to St. Jude's Children's Research hospital online www.stjude.org or by mail 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105.