Tom E. Kershaw

Thomas Edwin Kershaw, aged 83, succumbed to a lengthy battle with cancer on August 31, 2024. Born on July 30, 1941, in Hillsboro, Illinois, to Cecil and Helen Kershaw, he was the third of five siblings.

He adored his six children-Sandy, Barbe, Mike, Susan Cathy, Jeri Lynn, and Charles-along with his stepdaughters Tina and Christy, finding great joy in the time spent with his grandchildren: Adam, Devin, Morgan, Charlie, Brady, Sophie, Mikey, Ellie, and Bronwyn, as well as his great-grandchildren Alaric, Gabriel, Greyson, and Gianni.

Tom served three years in the Army as a transport operator in Germany. After returning home, he worked at the Peabody Coal Company as an underground shift supervisor and surface supervisor for over 30 years.

The final two decades of his life were defined by his passion for cooking his famous fried chicken in an iron skillet, enjoying leisure time on his screened-in back porch while listening to outlaw country music, and growing his robust vegetable garden. Tom was a dedicated member of his community, particularly enjoying the half-mile drive to the VFW where he engaged with fellow veterans.

Everyone who had the pleasure of meeting Tom loved being around him.  His capacity to share joy and kindness was evident in every interaction he had. He was indeed loved by all and was proud to be a "SIMPLE MAN."

Tom is survived by his children: Sandy, Barbe, Mike (Karen), and Susan Cathy (Huntley), Jeri Lynn, Charles; stepchildren: Tina and Christy; and grandchildren: Adam, Devin, Morgan, Charlie, Brady, Sophie, Mikey, Ellie, and Bronwyn, as well as his great-grandchildren Alaric, Gabriel, Greyson, and Gianni. His older brothers Cecil (Nancy) and Ross (Carolyn) also survive.  

He was preceded in death by his parents, Cecil and Helen Kershaw, as well as his sisters Mary Jane Durbin and Ann Seamon.

All are invited to a celebration of life on September 7, 2024 at the Sparta VFW, located at 1911 North Market Street. A private family service will take place from 1:00 to 3:00 pm, followed by a public gathering from 3:00 to 6:00 pm.

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