Justus, 81, served as St. Clair County Sheriff since 1982.  Prior to that, he was Cahokia Chief of Police since 1962. Altogether, he served as a law enforcement officer for some 60 years.

“His contributions, leadership, and legacy will be remembered for many years to come,” U.S. Congressman Jerry Costello (D-Belleville) stated in a news release.

Rick Watson was sworn in earlier this week as the new sheriff of St. Clair County.

Visitation for Justus has been set for Thursday, Dec. 20, from 4:30 to 8 p.m. and Friday, Dec. 21, from 3 to 8 p.m., at Holy Family Church in Cahokia.

Funeral services take place 10 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 22, at Holy Family Church. Once the church is filled, an overflow crowd will be able to watch the funeral via live simulcast at the Cahokia K of C Hall. 

Burial will be at Valhalla Cemetery, Belleville. 

Memorials may be made to the Program and Services for Older Persons and Mearl J. Justus Scholarship Fund at Southwestern Illinois College, Belleville.