Ila Catherine Walls Cadenhead

Ila Catherine Walls Cadenhead, a beloved mother and grandmother, passed away peacefully on October 8, 2024, at the remarkable age of 100. Born on August 23, 1924, in Troup County, Georgia, she was the cherished daughter of William Henry “W.H.” and Cora Davis Walls, and sister to Lucille and Edgar Walls.

Ila's life was marked by her deep love for family and her devotion to her husband, Alton Cadenhead Sr., with whom she shared a beautiful marriage. Together, they raised two children, Dr. Alton Cadenhead Jr. and Dr. Susan Burgess, who carry forward her legacy of love and resilience.

Ila was a proud homemaker who enjoyed sewing, gardening, and landscaping. She was a gifted pianist and delighted in playing for friends and family. Her home was a haven of warmth, creativity, and love and her family has numerous memories of laughter shared in the home. She was a dedicated member of Calhoun First Baptist Church, and enjoyed the company of her Bible Study, The Faith Seekers. Ila had a nurturing spirit that extended to her four grandchildren and her ten great-grandchildren, cultivating strong family bonds that will endure through generations.

Ila is preceded in death by her beloved husband, Alton; her parents, W.H. and Cora; and her siblings, Lucille and Edgar. She leaves behind a legacy of kindness and strength through her surviving children, Dr. Alton Cadenhead, Jr. (married to Suzanne) and Dr. Susan Burgess; her surviving grandchildren, Dr. Chris Cadenhead (married to Heather), Melody Hunter (married to Brian), Michael Burgess (married to Holly), and Matthew Burgess; and her ten great-grandchildren.

Friends and family are invited to attend a visitation on Friday, October 11th, from 5-7 PM at Thomas Funeral Home. A funeral service will follow on Saturday, October 12th, at 11 AM at Calhoun First Baptist Church, led by Dr. John Barber. Her grandchildren will honor her memory through music, prayer, and heartfelt words of comfort during the service. Pallbearers will include Brian Hunter, Michael Burgess, Matthew Burgess, Wesley Burgess, Brett Smith, and Mike Shivers, with honorary pallbearers representing the Faith Seekers Bible Study Class and Ila’s great-grandchildren.

Ila Catherine Walls Cadenhead will be remembered for her unwavering love, her passion for music, and her dedication to family. Her spirit will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.

Thomas Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of Ila Catherine Walls Cadenhead at this difficult time.