Thomas Lounsberry Obituary

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Tom Lounsberry on July 6, 2025, at the age of 78. Tom was born on May 29, 1947, and was born and raised in Petersburg, Illinois. He attended Harris High School in Petersburg, IL and SIU Carbondale. Tom served in the 101st Airborne Division of the United States Army. He was awarded a Bronze Star for heroic and meritorious achievement for his service in the Vietnam War. He raised his 3 children in Greenview, IL but would then return to Petersburg to enjoy his retirement years. He held several different careers throughout his life and would ultimately retire from his work as a Corrections Officer for the Illinois Department of Corrections in Jacksonville. He then enjoyed spending a peaceful retirement with his wife, children, and grandchildren.
Tom had a wonderful sense of humor and was a professional 'dad joke' teller. Though he'd told the same jokes for decades, he'd successfully perfected his delivery. This may be disputed by some. He enjoyed listening to music, dining out, art, movies, fishing and golfing. He especially enjoyed birthdays and family celebrations. Tom will be remembered as a very easy-going and kind man who most loved spending time with loved ones and making them laugh.
Tom is survived and greatly missed by his wife of 57 years, Alice Lounsberry who is a retired teacher from PORTA school district, his sister Charlene Ortman of Springfield and his 3 children: Tisha Bayless of Athens, Tim Lounsberry (wife Jen) of Bellingham, Washington, and Theresa Sanert (husband Dakin) of Sherman. Tom was also the proud grandfather of 3 amazing grandchildren whom he loved and absolutely adored: Ashley Schneider (husband Ian), Gavin Sanert and Brody Sanert. Also surviving Tom are a host of nieces and nephews, neighbors and friends. Tom was predeceased by his mother and father Stanley and Catherine Lounsberry, and his sisters Beverly Carter and Vicki Hendrickson, and brother Dale Lounsberry.
Although Tom's physical presence may no longer grace our lives, his spirit and the priceless memories we share of him will continue to inspire and uplift us. May his memory be a blessing, and may we carry forth his legacy of love and compassion in all that we do. As you continue to worship Jesus up there, Tom, your light will forever shine brightly in our hearts.
The family would like to extend our gratitude and appreciation to Petersburg EMS for their assistance in Tom's final months.
A visitation will be held on July 10, 2025, from 9:00-10:00 a.m. at St. Peter Catholic Church in Petersburg, IL. A catholic mass will immediately follow the visitation at 10:00 a.m. Burial will take place at Camp Butler National Cemetery at 12:00 p.m. where military honors will be conducted.
Please visit Tom's online obituary at hurleyfh.com. Hurley Funeral Home in Petersburg is assisting the Lounsberry family with arrangements.