SMSGT Hampton E. Cayson, USAF, Retired, 76, of Trenton, IL died Monday, February 25, 2008 at his home. He was born April 28, 1931 in Bristol, FL, son of Charley and Annie Laura (Langley) Cayson. He married Mary C. St. Croix on February 4, 1953 at St. John’s, Newfoundland and she survives in Trenton, IL.

In addition to his wife, he is survived by eight children, Shawn Cayson and wife Dee of Houston, TX, Zoe Vander Weil and husband Greg of Wayne City, NE, Shane Cayson of Shiloh, IL, Maura Stewart and husband Vincent of Gretna, NE, Quin Cayson and wife Sarah of Belleville, IL, Blaine Cayson and wife Marie of Collinsville, IL, Kent Cayson and wife Kris of New Baden, IL and Nola Cayson-Roth and husband Rodney of New Baden, IL; 11 grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents

Mr. Cayson was a veteran of the United States Air Force. He entered the service in 1947 and retired in 1970 during which time he received multiple awards and included a tour in Vietnam. After he retired from the service he spent 23 years in civil service as Chief of Fire Protection for AMC at Scott Air Force Base. He was a member of the Trenton VFW Post 7983.

A funeral mass was held on Saturday, March 1, 2008 at George Catholic Church in New Baden, IL with Rev. Eugene Neff officiating.

Memorials may be made to a charity of the donor’s choice and will be received at Hempen Funeral Home, 15 East Hanover, New Baden, IL who was in charge of arrangements.