MURPHYSBORO – John Thomas, 87, of Murphysboro, passed away on Saturday, April 6, 2024, at his home in Murphysboro.

John was born in Jackson County, Illinois, on October 29, 1936, the son of John Arthur and Mary Pearl Cummins Thomas. He married Harriet Ann Ralston on June 20, 1959 in Murphysboro. John retired after 45 years from Luster-Curwood in Murphysboro. He was Baptized in the Christian Faith. John was a member of Carbon Lake Club House and the Ava Saddle Club. John was an avid hunter and fisherman. He enjoyed shooting matches at Carbon Lake, horseback riding, skiing, and camping. John's grandchildren were the Love of His life.

John is survived by his wife, Harriet Thomas of Murphysboro; children, Mary Kay Thomas of Murphysboro, LaDonna Sue Crow of Campbell Hill, and Jason (Amy) Pelzer of Murphysboro; grandchildren, Jessica (Chris) Gallegos, Christel (Kim) Crow, Stephanie (Andrea) Presley, Gavin (Sydney) Topp, and Trey (Kealin) Topp; great grandchildren, Makayla Pelzer, Hunter Pelzer, Jaysie Pelzer, Drake Pelzer, Madysyn Butler, Gavin Foxx Fike, Denver Gallegos, Lily Topp and Scarlett Topp; sisters, Anita (Craig) Harris of Port Charolette, FL, and Linda Rendleman (Larry) Harnetiaux of Murphysboro; and several nieces, nephews, cousins and special friends.

John was preceded in death by his Parents; brother, Walter "Pug" Thomas; mother-in-law: Juanita Ralston; father-in-law, Harry Ralston; sister-in-law, Roberta Easton; and nephews, Mike Easton, Randy Thomas and Keith Rendleman.

Graveside service will be held on Tuesday, April 9, 2024, at 11:00 am, at St. Andrew's Catholic Cemetery, Murphysboro, with Rev. Charles Allen officiating. Burial will follow. Those wishing to be in attendance, are asked to gather at the cemetery at 10:45 am. The preferred form of remembrance are memorials to a Love Fund for the Family.