Thomas Arthur McCray

Thomas Arthur McCray, 59, of Springfield passed away at 11:43 a.m. Thursday, July 25, 2002 at Memorial Medical Center. Thomas was born August 18, 1942 the son of Vernon and Imo Pankey McCray in Lincoln, IL. He married Merriam Wheeler on August 18, 1996. Mr. McCray had been employed as a collection manager at Prairie International for over 30 years. He also served in the United States Marine Corps. He loved gardening, working on cars, and refinishing woodwork. He also enjoyed collecting antiques. He sang in the church choir at Pawnee Christian Church and was a member of the Elkhart Methodist Church. He enjoyed playing practical jokes and getting people stirred up. He was strong willed and funny. He was very good at anything he did. He enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren, daughters and stepchildren. He was preceded in death by his father. He is survived by his wife, Merriam of Springfield; two daughters: Sara (husband, Michael) Hashman of Springfield, Teresa McCray of Springfield; one step daughter: Rebecca (husband, Jason) Beard of Springfield; one step son: Nicholas (wife, Deborah) Weakley of Springfield; his mother, Imo; two granddaughters Caitlin, Kennedy; two brothers: Robert (wife, Donna) McCray of Chatham, Jerry (wife, Kristin) McCray of Henderson NV; and several nieces and nephews. Friends may call at Kirlin-Egan and Butler Funeral Home from 4-7:00 p.m. Sunday, July 28, 2002. Additional Visitation will be held at Elkhart Methodist Church from 10-11:00 a.m. Monday July 29, 2002. Funeral Services will be at 11:00 a.m. at Elkhart Methodist Church. Burial will follow in Elkhart Cemetery. Memorial contributions can be made to the American Cancer Society 1305 Wabash, Suite J, Springfield, IL 62704. The family of Thomas Arthur McCray is being served by Kirlin-Egan and Butler Funeral Home 900 S. 6th St., Springfield.