

Thomas was born on November 21, 1945, in Chicago, IL, the son of Robert and Irene (Nelson) Daly.
Thomas earned his master’s degree from Sangamon State University. He married the love of his life, Kathy, on October 2, 2004. That same year, he retired from City Water, Light and Power (CWLP) after a dedicated 30-year career. He also served with the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) as part of his long-standing commitment to public service.
A passionate Abraham Lincoln enthusiast, Thomas volunteered at the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Museum, where he enjoyed sharing his deep knowledge and admiration for the 16th president. He was also an avid golfer who especially loved spending winters golfing in St. Augustine, Florida.
A proud Illini fan, Thomas brought joy and laughter to many with his spot-on Cary Grant impression—a reflection of his warm personality and great sense of humor.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Robert and Irene Daly; and brother, Michael Daly.
Thomas is survived by his wife, Kathy Daly of Springfield; daughter, Jennifer (Steve) Thorpe of Duluth, MN; sons, Christopher (Heidi) Daly and Sean Daly both of Springfield, and Ryan (Brittany) Daly of Washington, IL; stepdaughter, Amy (Adam) Grojean of Springfield; eight grandchildren; six step-grandchildren; and one great grandchild.
Funeral Ceremony will be held at 10:30 am on Wednesday, September 3, 2025, at Oak Ridge Cemetery Mausoleum, 1441 Monument Ave. Springfield, IL 62702, with celebrant Judy Woerner officiating.
Memorial contributions may be made to Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Disease.
The family is being served by Butler Funeral Home-Chatham, 8855 State Rt. 4, Chatham, IL.
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