Thomas Charles McDonough

Thomas (Tom) Charles McDonough, born on July 21, 1938, to Loretta C. (Ebel) and Daniel E. McDonough, departed from this world on September 11, 2003, at Carlinville Area Hospital. Thomas's journey through life was marked by compassion and unwavering dedication to his family. He is preceded in death by his parents, Loretta and Daniel McDonough, his sister Elizabeth Ramos, and in-laws Josephine and Howard VanAusdall, as well as sister-in-law Patricia A. Spiker.

Thomas is survived by his beloved wife, Donna J. McDonough, his brother James McDonough and wife Shirley, his nephew Brian McDonough, and brother-in-law Richard V. Spiker. Additionally, he is fondly remembered by his cherished niece and foster-daughter, Christina L. (Spiker) Ball, her husband Bryce, and their son Justin Thomas (Spiker) Ball, who held a special place in his heart.

A man of resilience and dedication, Thomas attended Cathedral Boys High School and later achieved his GED in 1966 while serving in the military. Throughout his honorable service in the Army; during the Vietnam era, he contributed as a Nike Missile Repairman and supervisor, while stationed in Missouri, Alabama, and Texas. Thomas proudly served his country on three overseas deployments to Germany, an experience he was able to share with his loving wife, Donna.

In 1983, Thomas was granted early retirement under a compassionate care act from the Army to tend to the urgent needs of his mother-in-law, Josephine, and niece, Christina, as documented in his military records. This act of selflessness defined his character, as he and Donna embraced their role as parents to Christina, raising her as their (foster) daughter and later became grandparents to her son Justin.

Post-retirement, Thomas worked at Camp Lincoln Military Base's discharge department and became an active member of The American Legion Post #32. His dedication to the Legion extended beyond participation in events, activities, and politics, thereby culminating in his appointment as one of the Legion Commanders. During this time, he extended his love and support to others, opening his home to Tabitha Gilbert, a foster child for two years, the daughter of a fellow Legion member.

Thomas found solace and joy in life's simple pleasures, relishing country music, particularly the tunes of his favorite singer, Reba McEntire. He cherished moments spent sipping coffee, indulging in donuts on his deck, and engaging in the pastime of playing with remote control cars.

In light of Thomas's passing, a private family gathering will be held to celebrate his life. Unfortunately, due to the legal and fiscal constraints of funeral and will activities, the embalming procedures were not able to be attained; therefore, public viewing is not possible. Grave site ceremonies will follow on a separate day.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that memorial contributions be made to https://gofund.me/1d5b49b6 in order to help defray the funeral expenses. Any remaining funds will be dedicated to supporting his widow, Donna, in her battle against Alzheimer's disease.

Thomas Charles McDonough's legacy of selflessness, love, and devotion will forever resonate in the hearts of those who knew him. May he rest in eternal peace.