Thomas E. Sparrow

1947 - 2018

Thomas E. Sparrow

Born: August 26, 1947; in Morris, IL

Died: September 9, 2018; in Morris, IL

Thomas E. Sparrow, 71, of Morris, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his family, Sunday, September 9, 2018. Born August 26, 1947 in Morris, he was the son of the late Walker and Alma (Heath) Sparrow.

Raised and educated in Morris, Thomas graduated from Morris High School with the Class of '65. He married Gilda Southcombe on November 20, 1965. They were both baptized on Mother's Day in 1966. Thomas served in the United States Army from 1966-68 until he was injured. He was a recipient of the Purple Heart. He returned to Morris and was employed by Caterpillar, Inc. for 47 years.

Thomas loved his family and enjoyed giving his grandkids rides on the lawn mower. His favorite pastime was gardening. He was a Charter Member of the First Christian Church of Morris.

Survived by his wife, Gilda; children, Thomas E. Sparrow II of Normal, IL, Tonja (Todd) Hancock of Cholula, Mexico, Trent (Jackie) Sparrow of Dwight, and Thadd (Nicole) Sparrow of Normal, IL; grandchildren, Jeremy Carr, Hannah Sparrow, Mitchell, Mallory, and Lizzet Hancock, Elijah and Evette Sparrow, Ben (Melissa), Bart (Heather) and Brigham (Jessi) Schwinn; 4 great-grandchildren, Brady, Mason, Francesca, and Leo Schwinn; 7 siblings, Mike, Charlie (Mary), Bill (Bobbi), Steve, John (Denise), Gayle (Gary) Gaines, and Diana (Ralph) Rowe.

Preceded by his parents, his mother-and father-in-law and one sister-in-law, Rosie Sparrow.

Visitation will be held Friday, September 14, 2018 from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. at the First Christian Church of Morris, located at 455 W. Southmor Road. A Celebration of Thomas' Life will be held Saturday, September 15, 2018 at 10:30 a.m. at the church, with Dr. Chuck Richardson officiating. Thomas will be laid to rest with military honors in Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery at a later date.

Preferred memorial contributions may be made in Thomas' name to Joliet Area Community Hospice or the Fisher House Foundation of Hines VA.

Arrangements have been entrusted with U.C. Davis-Callahan Funeral Home, 301 W. Washington Street, Morris, IL. For further information visit the website at www.ucdaviscallahan.com or contact the funeral home at 815-942-0084. Online condolences may be directed to the family by visiting the website.