Obituaries Pike County IL
JOHN DUNCAN TAIT
- 86, of New Canton, died at his residence in New Canton Wednesday Sept. 23, 2009.
Mr. Tait was born March 18, 1923, in Detroit Mich. to Tisdale and Sara Campbell Tait. He married Joan Weathers in Las Vegas, Nev. April 15, 1988, and she survives.
Mr. and Mrs. Tait moved to New Canton in January, 1996, after having left the Las Vegas area, where John was Director of Southern Nevada Sightless Inc., an organization to promote independence for blind people. He had given up a promising career with General Motors in Detroit to earn his certificate for rehabilitation teaching of the blind in Philadelphia. John worked for the states of Massachusetts and Nevada as a Rehabilitation Counselor before his Directorship of Southern Nevada Sightless Center in 1970. Mr. Tait was a past Lions Club member in Nevada, and a member of West Pike Community Center and the New Canton Historical Society. He also spent eight years as a Town of New Canton board member. He liked carpentry and plumbing work, and enjoyed traveling along with being an avid reader.
Survivors include his wife Joan; a daughter, Joan Saunders of Las Vegas; and three step-daughters, Yvonne Bruce and Renee Para, both of New Canton, and Marlene Lipson of New York City; five grandchildren, Michael Saunders, Michael and Matthew Bruce, Jeremy Para and Miriam Lipson; along with two great-grandchildren, Jordan and Hope Para. John is also survived by a brother and a sister, George Tait of Oscoda, MI, and Emma Crawford of Detroit, Mich. and many beloved nieces and nephews. John was preceded in death by three sisters.
Memorial services will be held Thursday, Oct. 1, at 7 p.m. at the Niebur Funeral Chapel in Barry, with Bert Sapp officiating. Family will meet with friends from 5 - 7 p.m. Thursday evening before the service
ALBERT JOAB THOMAS
- Biography: A.J. Thomas is a native of Pleasant Hill. He has been in business over nineteen years. Postmaster, serving his second term as Secretary of the Sny Island Levee and Drainage District Commissioners, and is actively engaged in the Real Estate business.
ANNA ELZONA (WINDMILLER) THOMAS
, 75, of Pittsfield died Monday morning, Nov. 21, 1988 at her home. She was a member of the Grace Baptist Church in Pittsfield. Born Oct. 8, 1913 at Pleasant Hill, she was a daughter of William and Alice Turnbaugh Windmiller. She married Bert Thomas March 16, 1931. He died Feb. 23, 1971. Survivors include a son, Berlyn Thomas of New Salem; a daughter, Dorothy Jacobs of New Canton; one brother, Russell Windmiller of the Barry Community Care Center; three sisters, Lizzie Valeu and Alice Wright of Pleasant Hill and Pearlie Gray of Louisiana, MO.; nine grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, one sister and two brothers. Services will be held at 2 p.m. Friday in Ward-Lummis Funeral Home with burial in Crescent Hgts. Cemetery. Friends may call at the funeral home between 5 and 8 p.m. Thursday Nov. 25, 1988. Memorials may be given to a charity of the donor's choice.
BERLYN DEAN THOMAS
, 72, of New Salem died Tuesday, March 6, 2007, in Blessing Hospital in Quincy.
He was born Nov. 8, 1934, in Pleasant Hill to Bert and Elzona Windmiller Thomas. June 7, 1954, he married Doris Barnes. She survives in New Salem.
Buck was a retired mechanic and a LP gas delivery driver for FS in Pittsfield. He was a 1952 graduate of Barry High School and a member of El Dara Christian Church. He enjoyed square dancing, collecting miniature tractors and cars, farm work and his pet dogs.
Survivors include five children, Brenda (Kevin) McCann of Pittsfield, Berlyn Jr. (Becky) Thomas of Griggsville, Barbara (Frank) LIGHTLE of Griggsville, Dorothy (Donald) Foreman of Baylis and Clyde (Beth) Thomas of Quincy, six grandchildren, Lila (Bryan) Martin, Tyrell Lightle, Amanda McCann, Lucy Thomas, Alyssa Lightle and Will Thomas; a great-granddaughter, Renae Martin; a sister, Dorothy Jacobs of New Canton; and several nieces, nephews, cousins, brothers and sisters-in-law.
Services were held at 2:30 p.m. Friday in the Ward-Lummis Funeral Home in Pleasant Hill, conducted by the Rev. Al Laird. Burial was in Crescent Heights Cemetery, Pleasant Hill. Visitation was held from 5 to 8 p.m. today in the funeral home.
The Ward-Lummis Funeral Home in Pleasant Hill handled arrangements.
BERLYN WELLS THOMAS
, 62, died unexpectedly at 4:30 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 23, 1971 of an apparent heart attack at his home in El Dara. He had spent his lifetime farming. He was born March 5, 1908, in Pleasant Hill, son of Clyde and Maude Wells Thomas. His mother survives in Pleasant Hill. He married Elzona Windmiller on March 16, 1931, in Pittsfield. She survives. Also surviving are these children: Berlyn Dean Thomas of New Salem and Mrs. Clyde (Dorothy) Jacobs of rural Kinderhook. There are nine grandchildren. Two brothers, George R. Thomas and Kent Thomas, both of Pleasant Hill, and two sisters, Mrs. Verlie Hoaglin and Miss Dell Thomas, both of Pleasant Hill, survive. Funeral services were at 2 p.m. Thurs. Feb 25, 1971 at the Ward Funeral Chapel in Pleasant Hill with Rev. Joe T. Maynard officiating. Interment was in Crescent Hgts. cemetery.
CALVIN WILLIAM THOMAS
, 86, died unexpectedly at his home in Pleasant Hill at 3:30 p.m. Monday, Sept. 2, 1974. He was for many years assistant cashier of the Citizens State Bank in Pleasant Hill, retiring in 1957. Mr Thomas was born July 17, 1888 in Pleasant Hill, son of Cornelius and Dell (Bower) Thomas. He was a member of the Baptist church. Order of Odd Fellows 462 and American Legion Post 1048. He was a veteran of World War I. Surviving are two sisters, Miss Edith Thomas and Mrs. Erma Greene, both of Pleasant Hill. The funeral will be held at 2 p.m. Thursday, Sept, 5, 1974 at Ward-Lummis Funeral Home in Pleasant Hill with the Rev. Leonard Pinney officiating. Burial will be in Crescent Heights cemetery.
CAROL (GUTHRIE) THOMAS
, 92, Pleasant Hill , died Monday, Oct. 23, 2006 at Liberty Village in Pittsfield . She was born Aug. 7, 1914 to William Albert and Nora Estella Johnson Guthrie in Howell Hollow in Calhoun County . She married John Leon Thomas Sept. 22, 1930 in St. Louis , Mo. , and he preceded her in death Oct. 22, 1976. She was a graduate of Pleasant Hill High School and a member of the Community of Christ Church in Pleasant Hill . She is survived by a daughter in law, Shirley Thomas of Pittsfield and two sons-in-laws, Myrl Shireman of Quincy and Terry Smith of Pleasant Hill ; eight grandchildren and 18 great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, a son, Jack Thomas; two daughters, Carol Anne Shireman and Meribeth Smith; three brothers and six sisters. Funeral services were held Thursday, Oct. 26 at 11 a.m. at the Ward Lummis Funeral Home in Pleasant Hill with Wayne Wellborn officiating. Visitation was one hour prior to services. Burial was in Crescent Heights Cemetery . Pallbearers were Matthew Rayner, Brad Rayner, Evan Lipcamon, Aaron Lipcamon, Jason Thomas and Jeremy Thomas. Honorary bearers were John Thomas, Steve Shireman, Jeff Shireman, Brock Shireman, Greg Smith and James T. Smith. Memorials may be made to Blessing Hospice or to the donor's choice.
CLARENCE CRITTENDEN THOMAS
- Founder of Pleasant Hill Bank & was Cashier for years. Birth and death dates from Estate papers, at the time of Clarence death, his estate was worth about $407,000. Much of it in stocks and bonds... which makes sense, since he was a banker for almost 50 years. He was a generous man to his relatives.
CLARICE (ZOE) HUBER THOMAS
- The funeral of Mrs. Harry Thomas was held Saturday afternoon, Aug. 11, 1934 at the Christian church, Rev. Lee Maynard officiating. The minister selected the fitting scripture, Proverbs 31, to portray Mrs. Thomas' life. Pleasant Hill has lost a valuable citizen, one whose sunny disposition and contented life was an inspiration to all. She leaves her husband, mother and three lovely children, who will miss her tender care and love. Mrs. Thomas was 29 years old and enjoyed every minute of life until the past two years when her health failed. She never gave up hope, however. Her many friends mourn her loss sincerely, as well as her grief-stricken family.
CLAY VERNON THOMAS
- well known resident of Pleasant Hill, died rather unexpectedly Friday Feb. 27, 1953 with a heart attack in St. John's Hospital in Springfield where he had been a patient for some time. Funeral services were held at 2 o'clock Sunday afternoon, Mar 1, 1953 at the Pleasant Hill Baptist Church. Burial was in Crescent Heights cemetery. Mr. Thomas was 67 years of age. He had operated the Standard Oil station in Pleasant Hill for thirty years and was held in high regard by all who knew him. He is survived by his wife, who was formerly Grace Wheeler, one daughter Vernon at home, and one son Eugene, who lives at Lebanon, Ind. He had two grandchildren. Also three brothers and two sisters, Clyde, Cal, Harry and Edith Thomas, and Mrs. Erma Green, all of Pleasant Hill community.
CLYDE PETER THOMAS
, well-known farmer, who lived two miles west of Pleasant Hill, died rather unexpectedly about 10:30 Friday evening Feb. 22, 1957 at his home. He had not been very well all winter, but was ill only about a day before his death. Mr. Thomas was 77 years old and is survived by his wife, formerly Maude Wells; three sons and two daughters; Mrs. Verlie Hoaglin, George, Bert, Kent, and Dell at home. Funeral services were held Sunday afternoon Feb. 24, 1957 at the Methodist church in Pleasant Hill.
CORNELIUS HUMPHREY THOMAS
, 88, of Pleasant Hill, died Wednesday, Feb. 14, 2007, at Memorial Medical Center in Springfield.
He was born July 24, 1918 in Pleasant Hill to John Leon, Sr., and George Ann Humphrey Thomas. He married Bessie I. Clark, June 20, 1937 in Pittsfield and she survives.
He was a graduate of Pleasant Hill High School and an Army Air Corps veteran of World War II. He was a long time employee of Panhandle Eastern Pipeline Company in Pleasant Hill retiring in 1980, as area superintendent. Nealy was a member of Pleasant Hill American Legion Post 1048 and the former odd Fellows Lodge. He enjoyed duck hunting and fishing and was of the Baptist faith.
His survivors include his wife of nearly 70 years, Bessie Thomas of Pleasant Hill; a daughter, Sandra, husband Herman Suhling of Hammond; a son, John, wife Linda N. Thomas of Nebo; two grandchildren, Debra, husband David Hinds, of Decatur and John, wife Linda Thomas II of Jacksonville, Ark.; three step-grandchildren, Roger, wife Barb Buchanan of Pickney, Mich. and Rachel and Glen Williamson of Bluffs; four great-grandchildren, Amanda and Chelsea Retherford and Alexandria and John N. Thomas, III; two step great-grandsons, Clayton and Evan Retherford and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins. Nealy was preceded in death by his parents, a brother, Leon Thomas and by two sisters, Lillian LaDow and Elizabeth "Tib" Thomas.
Funeral services were held Saturday, Feb. 17 at 11 a.m. at Ward-Lummis Funeral Home in Pleasant Hill conducted by Bro. Don Hannel. Burial with military rites was in Crescent Heights Cemetery in Pleasant Hill. Visitation was held Friday evening from 6-8 p.m. at the funeral home. Pallbearers were John N. Thomas II, Roger Buchanan, John Mayo Thomas, Jeff Shireman, Terry Smith and Jim Stark. Memorials may be made to the Crescent Heights Cemetery Association or the charity or organization of the donor's choice. Ward-Lummis Funeral Home in Pleasant Hill was in charge of arrangements.
CORNELIUS JOHN ANDERSON THOMAS
, died at his home in this city Wednesday June 4, 1913 after an illness of several weeks. (Pike County Democrat 11 June 1913)
DELL ELIZABETH THOMAS
, 98, of Pleasant Hill, died Tuesday, Nov. 14, 2006, at Liberty Village in Pittsfield. She was born April 6, 1908 in Pleasant Hill, a daughter of John Leon, Sr and George Ann Humphrey Thomas. She is survived by a brother, C. H. "Nealy" (wife Bessie) Thomas of Pleasant Hill; nieces, Scotty Scotten of LaMonte, MO and Sandra Suhling of Hammond; nephews Sidney Lee LaDow of Palm Bay, FL and John N. Thomas of Pleasant Hill; and numerous great-nieces and nephews. She was extremely proud of all her family. Ms. Thomas was a graduate of Pleasant Hill High School (Shultz Academy) in 1926 and Metropolitan Business College in Oak Park in 1930. Following her graduation from business college, she was employed at the Pleasant Hill Post Office where her father served as postmaster. She then worked at the Pleasant Hill High School in the office and library. When World War II began she worked at Hercules in Lousiana, MO as a water treatment operator. After the war she taught school at Walnut Grove and Atlas before beginning her career in the medical field. She was employed by Dr. G. W. Kennedy at this dental office in Pleasant Hill and then by Dr. J. E. Goodman and Dr. Arthur Broser at their office in Pleasant Hill, working for Dr. Goodman and Dr. Carlos Lara when he joined Dr. Goodman's office, nearly 31 years, retiring in 1979 when Dr. Goodman closed his office. She was the oldest living member of the First Baptist Church in Pleasant Hill. She enjoyed traveling throughout the United States and Europe. She said there were 2 things she wanted to do and didn't get to; that was to go to Russia and to sky dive. Funeral services were held Saturday at Ward-Lummis Funeral Home in Pleasant Hill with Rev. David Ford officiating. Burial was at Crescent Heights Cemetery in Pleasant Hill. Casket bearers were John N. Thomas, John Mayo Thomas, Herman Suhling, Myrl Shireman, Terry Smith, John N. Thomas II and Bob Bowman. Memorials are still being accepted to Crescent Heights Cemetery Association.
EDITH MINERVA THOMAS
, 79, a lifelong resident of Pleasant Hill, died Monday, Oct. 21, 1974 at Illini hospital in Pittsfield. Funeral services will be held Wed. Oct 23, 1974 at 2 p.m. in the Ward-Lummis Funeral Home at Pleasant Hill with the Rev. Leonard Pinney officiating. Burial will be in Crescent Heights cemetery. Miss Thomas was born at Pleasant Hill on May 1, 1895, a daughter of Cornelius and Dell Bower Thomas. She was a member of the Baptist church. Surviving are a sister, Mrs. Irma Greene of Pleasant Hill, and nieces and nephews. A brother Cal Thomas, died Sept. 2, 1974.
ETTA MINERVA THOMAS
, well known resident of Pleasant Hill, died Sunday Nov. 10, 1946 at her home there following a several week illness. Funeral services were held at her home at 2:30 p.m., Tuesday Nov 12, conducted by Rev. Joe Maynard of this city. Burial was in Crescent Heights cemetery. Mrs. Thomas' husband Albert Thomas died several years ago, and she is survived by one son Bryson of Detroit, Mich., and two daughters, Roma and Evelyn, both teachers at Oak Park, IL.
GEORGE ANN (HUMPHREY) THOMAS
, 91, of Pleasant Hill died at 7:55 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 19, 1972 at Illini hospital, where she had been a patient the past week. She was born Oct. 5, 1880 near Bowling Green, MO., daughter of George H. and Elizabeth Waugh Humphrey. She married John L. Thomas at Pleasant Hill, April 8, 1906. He died in 1951. These children survive: Leon of New London, MO., Nealy of Pawnee, Mrs. Lee (Lillian) LaDow of Pittsfield and Elizabeth at home. There are seven grandchildren and 15 great-grandchildren. One sister, Mrs. Maude Moore of Louisiana, MO., also survives. The deceased was a member of Pleasant Hill Baptist church. Funeral services were held at 2 p.m. Tuesday
Feb 22, 1972 at Ward Funeral Chapel in Pleasant Hill with Rev. Joe T. Maynard and Rev. Ronald Hallen officiating. Burial in Crescent Heights cemetery.
GEORGE RUSSELL THOMAS
, 86, of Pleasant Hill died Monday, March 22, 1993 at his home.
Born Aug. 28, 1906 at Pleasant Hill, he was a son of Clyde and Maude Wells Thomas. He married Mary Gertrude Franklin June 9, 1927. she died March 27, 1981.
Survivors include a stepdaughter, Lucille Hawkins of Pleasant Hill; a brother, Kent Thomas of Tucson, Ariz.; and a niece, Julie Thomas of Peoria; a grandson, Ronnie Hawkins of Pleasant Hill; two great-grandchildren and one great-great-granddaughter.
He was also preceded in death by a brother, Bert Thomas; two sisters, Sell Thomas and Verlie Hoaglin, and an infant grandson.
Mr. Thomas owned and operated Thomas and Hawkins Garage in Pleasant Hill with Ralph Hawkins from 1938 until 1976. he was an avid coon hunter.
Services were held Thursday at 2 p.m. in Ward-Lummis. Funeral Home with the Rev. Frances Brown officiating. Burial was in Crescent Heights cemetery.
Memorials may be given to the Pleasant Hill Ambulance Unit or Crescent Heights Cemetery Association
HARRY GLENN THOMAS
- Funeral services for Harry G. Thomas, 79, of Pleasant Hill were held at 2 p.m. Sunday Sept. 13, 1970 at Ward Funeral Chapel with Rev. Russell Price officiating. Interment was in Crescent Heights cemetery, Pleasant Hill. Mr. Thomas died unexpectedly in his home Friday. Sept. 11, 1970. Born in Pleasant Hill, Oct. 30, 1890, Harry Glenn Thomas was the son of Cornelius and Dell Bower Thomas. He was a retired Pleasant Hill grocer and was a member of the Baptist church. On Jan 5, 1927 in Pittsfield, he married Zoe Huber, who preceded him in death. He is survived by a son, Glenn Thomas, of Alton; two daughters, Mrs. Lyndel (Marydelle) Turnbaugh and Mrs. Jack (June) Springer; a brother, C. W. Thomas; two sisters, Miss Edith Thomas and Mrs. Erma Green, all of whom reside at Pleasant Hill. There are 13 grandchildren and one great grandchild.
HORTENSIA CAROL (GUTHRIE) THOMAS
, of Pleasant Hill died at 11:45 a.m. Monday (Oct. 23, 2006) in Liberty Village, Pittsfield.
Mrs. Thomas was born Aug. 7, 1914, in Howell Hollow, Calhoun County, to William Albert and Nora Estella Johnson Guthrie. She married John Leon Thomas on Sept. 22, 1930, in St. Louis. He died Oct. 22, 1976.
Mrs. Thomas was a graduate of Pleasant Hill High School and a member of Community of Christ Church in Pleasant Hill.
She is survived by a daughter-in-law, Shirley Thomas of Pittsfield; two sons-in-law, Myrl Shireman of Quincy and Terry Smith of Pleasant Hill; eight grandchildren; 18 great-grandchildren; and seven great-great-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; a son, Jack Thomas; two daughters, Carol Ann Shireman and Meribeth Smith; three brothers, and six sisters.
Services will be conducted at 11 a.m. Thursday in the Ward-Lummis Funeral Home in Pleasant Hill by Wayne Welborn. Burial will be in Crescent Heights Cemetery in Pleasant Hill.
Visitation will be one hour prior to services Thursday.
Memorial may be made to Blessing Hospice or to a charity of the donor's choice.
IRIS (BURKHARDT) THOMAS
- born 7 May 1916, Champaign, II.; d: 6 Aug 1996, Jacksonville, II.; Bu: Crescent Heights Cemetery, Pleasant Hill, II.; M: Jesse R. Thomas on 22 Dec 1934 in Alton, II.; FA: August Burkhardt; MO: Viola Schutz; Resident of J'ville; formerly of Pleasant Hill.; Husband preceded in death 6 Feb 1988.; Survived by one daughter: Mrs. Phil (Lavonne) Holloway of J'ville; four grand and six great grandchildren; one brother: Robert Burkhardt of Palm Bay, Fla.; and one sister: Clara E1hoffer of Alton.; Preceded by three sisters; and one brother.
JACK THOMAS
, 63, a well-known Pike Co. farmer, died Sat. Apr. 8, 1995, at his family farm south of Pittsfield.
Born Nov. 12, 1931 in Pleasant Hill, he was the son of John Leon and Carol Guthrie Thomas. He married Shirley Plattner on Oct 26, 1952 in Pittsfield, and she survives. Also surviving are his mother, Carol Thomas of Pleasant Hill; two daughters, Cathy Rayner of Pleasant Hill and Mrs. Bret (Sarah) Lipcaman of Perry; one son, John Thomas of Pittsfield; 11 grandchildren, Jeremy Thomas of Germany, and Jason and Ashley Thomas of Pittsfield, Matthew, Bradley, Beth and Lauren Rayner of Pleasant Hill, and Evan, Aaron, Megan, and Kayla Lipcaman, all of Perry; two sisters. Carol Ann Shireman of Quincy and Meribeth Smith of Pleasant Hill; and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his father. Mr. Thomas was a 1949 graduate of Pleasant Hill High School and farmed with his father before moving to rural Pittsfield in 1955. He farmed for 45 years and was a well-known cattle farmer and a member of the Pike Co. Beef Assoc. He was a DeKalb Seed Dealer for 25 years and a member of the Pike Co. Farm Bureau. He was a member of the Reorganized Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. Wed. Apr 12, 1995, at the Airsman-Hires Funeral Home in Pittsfield. Burial will be in Crescent Hgts. Cem. in Pleasant Hill. Memorials may be made to a charity of the donor's choice.
JESSE R. THOMAS
- b: 10 Oct 1904, Calhoun Co., II.; d: 6 Feb 1988, Pittsfield , II. (Illini Commty Hosp); Bu: Crescent Heights Cemetery, Pleasant Hill, II.; M: Iris Burkardt on 22 Dec 1934 in Alton, II.; FA: William Thomas; MO: Sarah Clendenny; Resident of Pleasant Hill, II.; Survived by his wife; one daughter: Mrs. Lavonne Hollway of Jacksonville; two brothers: Edward of Hamburg and Clyde of Belleview; four grand and two great grandchildren.; Preceded by three sisters.
JOEL SMITH THOMAS
- Birth & death dates from Crescent Hgts. cem. book, Pike Co. IL. also have his Death certificate, says died of Auto Intoxication, his biography says he died of pneumonia.
J. Smith Thomas, M.D., one of the leading physicians and citizens of Pike Co., is located at Pleasant Hill, where he has spent the greater part of his active life. He devotes himself thoroughly to his profession, in the theoretical department of which he is well versed and in its practical application skillful. He owns two hundred and sixty acres of land, and with a brother has charge of the operation of about one thousand acres of his father's estate. For ten years he has been interested with T. J. Shultz in buying and shipping grain under the name of Shultz & Thomas. Dr. Thomas was born in Pike Co., MO., Aug. 26, 1845, but reared at Pleasant Hill, this State, his father having removed hither during his childhood. He obtained a good English education prior to 1862, when he went to Idaho, remaining there three years. On his return he spent nine months as a student in Watson's Seminary, in Ashley, Pike Co., MO., after which he entered a wholesale grocery establishment at Macon City, MO. He continued his work there until 1870, when, having met with an accident, he returned home and took up the study of medicine. In March 1872, he was graduated from the Medical College of Ohio, and at once began practice in the town which is now his home. In 1876-77 Dr. Thomas attended St. Louis Medical College in St. Louis. He has continued his practice in Pleasant Hill since his graduation, except a short time, in 1882-83, which was in San Antonio, Tx. Our subject belongs to Knights of Honor, and he and his wife are identified with the Methodist Episcopal Church. In the paternal line Dr. Thomas traces his ancestry to Wales, his great-grandfather having imigrated from that country to Virginia.
"from Portrait and Biographical Album" pg 542-543
From The Pike Press April 21, 1993 - Pictured are "Sweetheart" and "Katie"
JOHN A. THOMAS
, aged about 70 years, died at his home in Pleasant Hill on Saturday evening Feb. 25, 1888 at 8 o'clock, of pneumonia, after an illness of one week. The doctor was a good man and citizen, and was a great helper in every good work for the amelloration of the human family. He was a member of Pleasant Hill lodge A.F. and A.M., but owing to the extreme cold weather and the ground being covered with snow it was thought best not to have any ceremony at the grave. The funeral services were held at the Baptist church by Elders Givens and Lewis, assisted by Revs. Turner and Priestly. His remains were deposited in the town cemetery.
JOHN LEON THOMAS
- Funeral services for John Leon Thomas, 64, a well-known farmer in the New London area, were held Monday, Oct. 25, 1976 at the Plattner Funeral Chapel in Pittsfield, ILL. Elders William Guthrie and Lowell Weaver officiated, and burial was in Crescent Heights Cemetery at Pleasant Hill, ILL. Mr. Thomas was killed Friday afternoon, Oct. 22, 1976, when the truck he was driving, loaded with shelled corn, left the highway, over-turned and pinned him under the truck. Mr. Thomas, manager of Droste Farms for 16 years, located near Ashburn, had completed harvesting of the corn in a field and was returning to the farm. He was driving down a long slope on Highway 79 when apparently the brakes on the truck failed. The truck reached the bottom of the slope and following the curve of the road to the right went off the right side of the road. Mr Thomas was able to return the truck to the highway but the truck straddled a guard rail along the highway and then overturned, rolling down a slope and throwing Mr. Thomas out of the cab. The time of the accident was about 4:50 p.m. Mr. Thomas was born Feb. 13, 1912 at Pleasant Hill, ILL., the son of John L. and George Ann Humphrey Thomas. He was married to Carol Guthrie who survives. Other survivors are two daughters, Mrs. Myrl (Carol Ann) Shireman of Quincy and Mrs. Terry (Meribeth) Smith of Pleasant Hill; a son, Jack Thomas of Pittsfield; a brother, Nealy Thomas of Pleasant Hill; two sisters, Miss Elizabeth Thomas of Pleasant Hill and Mrs. Lee (Lillian) LaDow of Pittsfield. He is also survived by eight grandchildren, John Mayo Thomas, Catherine Elizabeth Thomas, Sarah Jane Thomas, Steven Dean Shireman, Jeffrey Leon Shireman, Brock Thomas Shireman, Gregory Thomas Smith, James Todd Smith, and one great-grandchild, Jeremy Michael Thomas. Pallbearers were John Webster, Charles Bradley, Martin Polston, Jim Huesler, Louis Droste, Jr., and Bill Waugh. Mr. Thomas was a member of the Reorganized Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints.
LESLIE W. THOMAS
, 88, of Pleasant Hill died at 2 p.m. Monday, March 8, 1976 at Pike Co. hospital in Louisiana, MO. where he had been a patient since Feb 6. He was the father of Mrs. Norma Pruett of Pleasant Hill and Jay Thomas of Louisiana. Ward-Lummis Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements which were incomplete early Tuesday afternoon
LOLA THOMAS
, 82, of Kinderhook did Thursday April 3, 2008 in Barry Community Care Cemeter. She was born Sept. 5, 1925 in Hadley Township, Pike County, a daughter ofHarry and Nellie (Ely) Sittler. She married Lowell Edward (Eddy) Thomas July 13, 1946 in Hannibal and he preceeded her in death Feb. 15, 1978. She survived by 3 sons, Edward (wife Lynette) Thomas, Robert wife Lois) Thomas and Bruce (wife Kathy) Thomas, all of Hull; a daughter Mrs. Carl (Wanda) Blacketer of Pittsfield; 25 grandchildren, a brother George (wife Fayer) Sittler of Avon; 4 sisters, Mrs. Bill (Darlene) Bigsby of Quincy, Norma McGee of Virginia, Ruby Young and and Anna Beth Moore, both of Hemet, CA; and several nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by a brother Ellsworth Sittler. Mrs. Thomas was a member of Kinderhook United Methodist Church and UnitedMethodist Women. Funeral services were Monday at Kirgan Funeral Hmoe in Barry. Burial was at Kinderhook Cemetery. Memorial were suggested to Barry Community Center Activity Fund.
MARTHA ATWOOD THOMAS
, was born on May 29, 1918, to Elmer Ray Atwood and Alice Sigler Atwood in Pittsfield. She died Sept. 19, 2011, at Pike County Memorial Hospital in Louisiana, with her family by her side. She was 93.
The third oldest of six Atwood children, Martha attended Higbee High School in Pittsfield, graduating in the spring of 1936. She earned her degree from Gem City Business College in Quincy, then returned to Pittsfield where she worked at Zimmerman Pontiac and R.C. Gray Chevrolet before joining CIPS, Central Illinois Public Service. Martha became office manager at a time when few women held management positions.
She met her future husband, Jay S. Thomas II of Pleasant Hill, when he was hired by CIPS in 1940. The war in Europe was escalating, and Jay joined the Fifth Air Force in May 1941. The couple was married Oct. 18 of that year in a double ceremony in Jefferson City with Martha’s brother, Eldon Atwood, and his bride, Alberta Bullard. Because CIPS had a policy against employing married women, the marriage was kept a secret until the spring of 1942 when Martha began working for Production Credit Association in Pittsfield, eventually becoming assistant office manager. By that time, Jay was on active military duty. A first lieutenant, he served in the southeast Pacific theater of war from January 1942-March 1945. Following his discharge from the service, the couple moved to Canton where Jay attended Culver Stockton College on the GI Bill. By the time he earned his bachelor’s degree in May 1948, Martha and Jay had two children, Jan Atwood Thomas and Jay S. Thomas III.
Two more children, Martha Ann Thomas and Joyce Rae Thomas, were born in the next few years as the family lived in Louisiana, where Jay managed the Wes Olson Pontiac dealership. After Jay worked for a year in Columbia at the MFA Insurance Home Office, Martha and Jay purchased the MFA agency in Louisiana, opening it Sept. 1, 1956. Martha worked part-time at the office but was mostly a stay-at-home mother until Joy started school. At that time she joined Jay full time at the agency, working by his side until his retirement in 1986. Their son Jay joined the firm in 1972. Martha served as office manager and bookkeeper until just last year when declining health prevented her from continuing. The business is still in operation at 117 North Fifth St. in Louisiana in a building constructed by Jay and Martha themselves in 1962. In the 1980s, Jay and Martha purchased an antique carousel which Jay restored. The couple traveled with the carousel, enabling many people to experience the thrill of an old-time carnival ride.
Martha was active in myriad organizations. She and Jay loved to square dance and were long-time members of the Pike Promenaders, dancing every Saturday night in Pittsfield for many years. She was a lifetime member of The Order of Eastern Star, earning her 50-year pin. She and Jay helped found Illiamo, the Illinois/Iowa/Missouri Travel Council, a group dedicated to raising tourism along the Mississippi River in the tri-state area. Together, they worked countless boat and travel shows in those three states, proving to be effective ambassadors and bringing many new visitors to the area. Martha was also a charter member of the Louisiana Historical Preservation Association, LHPA, which was originally founded in the 1970s to save the Lewis Buildings, three historic structures in the 400 block of Georgia St. in Louisiana. The group was successful, and those buildings are now occupied by local businesses. One of Martha’s special loves was being a board member of the Nurses’ Educational Fund, a group which grants scholarships to students wishing to train as LPN’s or RN’s. She was a long-time member of the Louisiana Chamber of Commerce and the Women’s Auxiliary of the Veterans of Foreign Wars chapter in Clarksville. Jay, Martha, and Jay built and opened Thomas Apartments East and West in Louisiana on July 1, 1979, which continues to provide homes for senior citizens. Martha was a faithful member of the Centenary United Methodist Church in Louisiana, attending services up until the week before her death.
The couple parted when Jay died Easter Sunday, April 15, 1990. Martha is survived by her four children, five grandchildren, and four great-grandchildren. Jan Thomas and husband Cameron Smith live in Murphysboro, Ill., where they are glass blowers and artists. Jay Thomas III and wife Debbie live in Louisiana where they continue to operate the Thomas Insurance Agency begun 55 years ago by Martha and Jay. Ann Thomas Narramore and husband, Jerry are retired from Ameren UE and live south of Louisiana. Joy Thomas Cleaver and husband Philip are residents of Edmond, Okla., where Joy teaches high school English. Martha’s grandchildren and great-grandchildren are Jay S. Thomas IV, wife Irma, and daughter Isabella of Louisiana; Molly Elizabeth Thomas McDaniels and husband Ryan of Columbia; Lisa Ann Cleaver Fore, husband Gene, and sons Charlie and Wesley of Guthrie, Okla.; Angela Joy Cleaver Briel and husband David of Indianapolis, Ind.; and Rachel Grace Thomas Moses, husband John, and daughter, Grace Elizabeth of Liberty.
Funeral services were held at Centenary United Methodist Church in Louisiana Friday. Cremation was followed by a private family burial service.
MIRIAM DELL THOMAS
, 66, of Peoria, formerly of Pleasant Hill, died Tuesday, Jan 27, 1987 at Methodist Hospital in Peoria after an extended illness. Born Feb. 18, 1920 in Pleasant Hill, she was a daughter of Clyde and Maude Wells Thomas. She was a retired employee of Stark Brothers Nursery and a member of United Methodist Church of Pleasant Hill. Surviving are a daughter, Julia Thomas of Peoria; two brothers, Kent Thomas of Tucson, Ariz., and George R. Thomas of Pleasant Hill; and a sister, Mrs. Verlie Hoaglin of Pleasant Hill. She was preceded in death by a brother. Services were conducted at 2 p.m. Thursday at Ward-Lummis Funeral Home in Pleasant Hill by the Rev. Jeff Rasche. Burial was in Crescent Heights Cemetery. Memorials may be made to the American Cancer Society.
MOLLIE (SKILLING) THOMAS
, widow of the late Dr. J. Smith Thomas, died at her home in Pleasant Hill, Friday, Dec 19, 1924, at the age of 73 years and 5 months. She had spent the past several weeks in a St. Louis MO. hospital with no material benefit and came home to await the end, her condition had been quite serious for several weeks. She had always been an active worker for the welfare of the community and was held in the highest regard by a multitude of friends. Mrs. Thomas married Dr. J. Smith Thomas in November 1874. In girlhood she was Mollie Wells, daughter of Perry Wells, pioneer settler of Pleasant Hill township. To Dr. and Mrs. Thomas were born five children, all of whom survive her. They are: Mrs. Frank Darrah of St. Louis; Mrs. Blanche Waugh, of Pleasant Hill; Mrs. Elizabeth Archer of Kansas City; Mrs. Jessie Galloway, of Pleasant Hill and Leslie, with whom Mrs. Thomas made her home.
Mrs. Thomas made a friend of all who knew her and had many friends in this city who are grieved to hear of her passing. She had lived all her long life in the neighborhood in which she died. Funeral services were held in the Pleasant Hill M.E. church Monday afternoon, Dec 22, 1924, and interment was in Crescent Heights cemetery.
Pleasant Hill Messenger Nebo Banner, Nebo, IL 1/7/1925 pg6 - c3
ROBERT THOMAS
, 20 year old son of Mrs. J.S. Thomas, passed away last Wednesday morning, July 3, after a courageous fight against tuberculosis. Bobby had been a suffer from the disease for several years, and had spent some months at Oaklawn sanitarium in Jacksonville, but when he was not benefited, he returned to the home of his mother in this city. Bobby graduated with the class of 1926 from Pittsfield high school. All his school life he was most popular with everyone, and he made the town his friend. The sympathy of many warm acquaintances is extended to his good mother, who also lost a son Ralph, in the World War. A few years ago the father of the family also passed away. Surviving are two sisters, Mrs. Karl Kern and Miss Ginevra, and three brothers, Hubert, Phillip and Harold. Services were held Thursday afternoon in the Methodist Church; burial in West Cemetery.
RONALD F. TUSHAUS
, 64, of Quincy, died Thursday, March 12, 2009, in Blessing Hospital.
He was born Oct 8, 1944 in Quincy to Frank and Marie (Owning) Tushaus. He married Mary "Fran" Walston May 22, 1982 in St. Francis Catholic Church. She survives.
He was a member of St. Francis Catholic Church.
Ronald was a 1963 graduate of Christian Brothers School. He had been employed at Bueters Bakery, and he was employed by Prairie Farms for 24 years until his retirement He then worked as a park ranger for the Quincy Park District, retiring in 2006.
His biggest enjoyment in life was being with family and friends.
In addition to his wife Fran, survivors include two sisters, Marydine Frankenhoff and her husband Roger of Quincy, and Marcia Tushaus of Quincy; his mother-in-law Adine Walston of Pittsfield; his brothers and sisters- in-law, Donald Walston and his wife Becky, and Nancy Kindle all of Pittsfield, Della Green of Bowling Green, Mo., Murl Walston and his wife Joan of Nebo, Loyd Walston and his wife Debbie, and Roger Walston and his wife Gail all of Pittsfield. Many nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews also survive.
Ronald was preceded in death by his parents, step-mother, Lucille Tushaus, and his father-in-law, Harold "Shug" Walston.
Funeral services were held Monday, March 16, at 9:30 am. in the Duker & Haugh Funeral Home and 10:00 am. in St. Francis Catholic Church by Father Kurt Hartrich. Interment was in Calvary Cemetery. Visitation was Sunday evening from 3 - 7 p.m. at the funeral home, with a parish prayer service at 5 p.m. Memorials are suggested to St. Francis Catholic Church.
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