Obituary of Michael Joseph “Joey” DeGrave
Michael Joseph “Joey” DeGrave Jr., 58, of Cave-In-Rock, Illinois, went to be with the Lord on Thursday, May 28, 2026 at 11:18 p.m. surrounded by family at his daughter’s home.
Joey was born on January 16, 1968 to Michael Joseph “Mike” Sr. and Linda Sue (Angleton) DeGrave in Rosiclare, IL. He married Kimberly Dillon in 1997. They were married for over 27 years and raised four children together.
Joey spent most of his life in Cave-In-Rock, where he built many lifelong friendships and memories. In his later years, he moved to Centralia, Illinois, to live with his daughter, Kali (Christian) Lane who he is survived by, along with his other children, Joshua (Hailey) Fleming, Kendall DeGrave, and Khloe DeGrave; his parents; his brother; nieces and nephews; and his beloved grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his Papaw Harley and Mamaw Norma.
Joey never failed to make those around him laugh with his endless dad jokes, quick wit, and warm personality.
He had a deep love for music and enjoyed sharing it with anyone willing to listen. A talented musician, Joey played with several bands throughout his early adulthood including, Frozen Rose, Drivin Rain, and Overtaken. Music was one of his greatest passions and he leaves behind many memories through the songs he played and the joy he brought to others.
He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.
Visitation will be held on Friday, June 5th, 2026 from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. at Levee Pond Church, 759 IL-146, Cave-In-Rock, Illinois. A funeral service will follow at 12 p.m.
Burial will take place at Cave Hill Cemetery, Cave-In-Rock, IL.
Memorial donations may be made to Joey’s funeral care fund at Maxton-Rosado Funeral Home to help the family with final expenses.
To make an online donation, click on the donation tab on Joey’s obituary page: https://www.rosadofuneralhomes.com/obituary/Michael-DeGrave. All payments will go directly to the Funeral Home to help the family in their time of loss. Donations may also be mailed to: Maxton-Rosado Funeral Home, 134 S. Elm Street Centralia, Illinois, 62801.
Published in the June 4, 2026 Hardin County Independent.
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