Thomas Goodwillie

MORTON - Thomas A. Goodwillie, 84, of Morton passed away at 7:40 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 11, 2013, at Morton Terrace Healthcare and Rehabilitation Centre.

He was born June 30, 1929, in Grosse Pointe, Mich., to Alexander Hay and Mary (MacKenzie) Goodwillie. He married Charlotte Steck in St. Louis, Mo. She preceded him in death on Sept. 17, 1989.

He also was preceded in death by his parents and one brother, Gary Goodwillie.

Surviving are one son, Scott Goodwillie (Sofia Bachvarova) of New York, N.Y.; two grandchildren, Jacob Goodwillie and Marissa Goodwillie, both of New York, N.Y.; and one sister, Ellen Formica of Midway City, Calif.

He was extremely proud of his service with the United States Air Force from June 30, 1947, to June 27, 1950.

Thomas was employed as a certified public accountant for many years until his retirement, which included the American Red Cross in Peoria.

He was a member of the American Legion in Peoria.

Those Thomas left behind remember him as a man with an inexhaustible curiosity for life, the science of its origins and evolution to come. His heroes ranged from Spinoza to Einstein and still his favorite times were spent with everyday folk in his neighborhood. Quick with a smile and a wit to match, he charmed all who he came in contact with him on a daily basis. An eternal optimist, he looked for the best in people and in doing so brought out the best in them. In the words of Joseph Campbell, he inspired those he knew to "follow their bliss," that gifts of the spirit meant more than any worldly gain. In these ways, Thomas didn't really leave those he loved behind but instead instilled a sense of wonder and goodness profoundly in their souls. His family will miss his wisdom and warmth yet know he will always live in their hearts and that really is all he would ever want.

Services will be held at 10 a.m. Thursday, Aug. 15, 2013, at Knapp-Johnson Funeral Home and Cremation Center in Morton, with Pastor Mark Anderson officiating. Visitation will be from 9 a.m. until time of services Thursday at the funeral home. A graveside service with full military honors will be held at 11 a.m. Friday, Aug. 16, at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery in St. Louis, Mo.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to a charity of the donor's choice.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.knappjohnson.com.