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Thomas McPhail Obituary

ZEIGLER -- Thomas Stephen McPhail, 66, formerly of Royalton, passed away at 10:35 p.m. Monday, July 2, 2012, at home, surrounded by his loving wife and family, after a courageous battle with cancer.

Tom was born Dec. 15, 1945, to Pete and Eva McPhail of Royalton.

He married Jessica Lyell, and together they shared 47 years of marriage.

Tom was a retired UMWA coal miner. Later in life, he began working in the entertainment bus industry where he met many fascinating people and made several dear friends.

Tom enjoyed classic cars and spent a lot of time going to car shows with his friend, Jerry Jones. He loved spending time with his family, and he also enjoyed visiting with his good friend, Virgil Carpenter, and his other friends in Royalton at "The Shack." He and Jessica also enjoyed spending winters in Florida with their friends there.

Survivors include his wife, Jessica McPhail of Zeigler; son, Greg (Robyn) McPhail of Farmington, Mo.; daughters, Ronda (Forrest) Moreland of Christopher and Michele (Scott) Fry of Aurora; granddaughters, Victoria McPhail of St. Louis and Ashlynn McPhail of Farmington, Mo.; brother, William McPhail of Royalton,; nieces, Raylene (Carl) Stafko of Royalton and Kathy Towers of Christopher; nephew, Danny Jerrells of Royalton; and several great- nieces and nephews and numerous friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Pete and Eva McPhail; sister and brother-in-law, Jean and Tom Towers, sisters, Sue Carol McPhail and Ruth Jerrells; niece, Vicki Kincade; and nephew, Rick Towers.

It was Tom's wishes to be cremated with no services.

The family would like to thank Dr. Rodney Miller, Dr. Michelle Jenkins, Dr. Alberto Cuartas and his staff, Dr. Ross and her staff of Stacy and Christy in Lake Wales, Fla., as well as Hospice of Southern Illinois for the wonderful care they gave him. In addition, thank you to all of his friends and family for their kindness, help, thoughts and prayers.

Arrangements for family are under the direction of Gilbert Funeral Home in Christopher.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by The Southern Illinoisan on Jul. 4, 2012.

Memories and Condolences
for Thomas McPhail

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MaryAnn Brandon

June 28, 2020

Tom was one of the good guys. I will remember him for his kind heart always. It was a privilege to know him and considered him my friend. May he Rest In Peace.

John, Gaye(Smillie), David, Nathan, & Julie Butler

July 9, 2012

We would like to offer our condolences to you in your time of loss. I had the priviledge to meet Ringo years ago. My father talked very highly of him when they worked in the mines together. He talked what a wonderful sense of humor and personality he possessed. Gaye also expresses her sorrow for you all. You are all in our prayers.

July 9, 2012

Words fall short of expressing our sympathy for the loss of your husband, father, grandfather and friend. I've known Tom since high school as a kind, wonderful person. Our family would like you to know that our thoughts and prayers are with you and the rest of your family, Jessica.
Sincerely,
Mary Ann (Bell) Brandon,
Art, Nikki and Brian

July 8, 2012

To Jessica and family our prayers are with you. Since our high school years till now I have always thought the world of Tom.Bill said he has known Tom since they were little kids and we have both thought the same when it came to Tom. That is he way always one of the good guys. Bill and Barbara Young, Royalton, Illinois

BARB & KEN DAWES

July 5, 2012

As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life's routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends.

Penny Overton

July 5, 2012

I'm so sorry for your loss.

judy Adams

July 5, 2012

Sorry to hear about your loss.My prayers are with you & family
Judy @ Dr Jenkins office

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