William K. "Bill" Thomas

Mr. William K. Thomas, or Bill as he preferred to be called, and known by his oldest friends and grandchildren as "Tuna", completed his earthly journey on March 9, 2026, after a valiant battle with cancer. Born on January 7, 1945, in the tranquil surroundings of Coupeville, WA, Bill carried the essence of his serene birthplace throughout his life, touching the hearts of all who knew him. In the embrace of Robinson, IL, surrounded by the love of his family, Bill departed this world, leaving a legacy of kindness and integrity. He is survived by his devoted wife, Leslee (Carr) Thomas, his cherished son, William K. "Kent" (Amber)Thomas of Robinson, and his beloved grandchildren, Lincoln and Eleanor Thomas, of Robinson and Fletcher Tyre and Rowan Tyre of Robinson. Bill was a dutiful son to his parents, Bill and Helen (Cholod) Thomas, a supportive brother to Robert Thomas, and a treasured in-law to Rod (Dorinda) Carr, Decatur, IL, Becky Thomas, Woodlands, TX, Kelly (Shawn) March, Indianapolis, IN, and several nieces and nephews.

Bill's academic journey was illustrious, beginning with his graduation from Lyon's High School in LaGrange, IL, in 1963, followed by a Bachelor of Science in Business from DePauw University, Greencastle, IN, in 1967. His pursuit of knowledge continued at Northern Illinois University, DeKalb, IL, where he earned an MBA in 1969, and culminated at Indiana University School of Law, Bloomington, IN, with a Juris Doctor in 1972. For 52 years, Bill dedicated himself to the practice of law, serving his community through his own law office with unwavering commitment and excellence.

A man of deep Christian faith, Bill walked through life with the gentle footsteps of one who trusts in the Lord. His interests were a reflection of his steadfast character, as he remained a lifelong and enthusiastic fan of the Indiana Hoosiers and the Chicago Cubs, embodying the loyalty and passion that were hallmarks of his personality. Bill was the epitome of selflessness, gentleness, and friendliness. In the words of the esteemed poet John Donne, "No man is an island," and indeed, Bill lived as a man connected to others, his life a testament to the beauty of human relationships and the impact of a kind heart. In the manner of William Shakespeare, let us not mourn Bill's departure but celebrate the time we were graced with his presence. For he was a man of such caliber that, "All the world's a stage, and all the men and women merely players; they have their exits and their entrances, and one man in his time plays many parts." Bill played his parts with honor, love, and a touch of grace that will forever resonate in the memories of those who loved him.

Mr. Thomas' service to his community included being a member and past president of the Lincoln Trail College Foundation; a member of the Board of the Carraway Foundation; long time member of the board of directors and attorney for the First Robinson Savings Bank; board member and attorney for the Crawford County Airport Authority.

We bid farewell to William K. "Bill" (Tuna) Thomas, a true gentleman whose life was a portrait of love and service. He has left behind a legacy that will continue to inspire and guide us, as we hold him in our hearts until we meet again in God's eternal kingdom. Those family members awaiting Bill's arrival in Paradise include his parents, Bill and Helen, his daughter Julie K. Thomas in 2023, his brother Richard "Butch" Thomas in 2024, and his sister-in-law, Kristy Carr in 2025.

Visitation for William K. "Bill" Thomas will be Friday March 13, 2026, from 4:00 pm until 7:00 pm at Highland Church of Christ, 500 W. Highland Ave., Robinson, IL. Funeral Services will be conducted Saturday March 14, 2026, at 11:00 am at Highland Church of Christ with. Pastors Shane Bopp, Michael McElyea and Brandon Bentch officiating. Interment will follow funeral services in Oak Grove Cemetery, rural Palestine, IL.

The family suggests memorial contributions in Bill's memory be made to Boys and Girls Club of Crawford County with envelopes available at the Church and at Pulliam Funeral Home in Robinson who is assisting the family with services.