Thomas C. Jones, Jr.

CHARLESTON – Thomas C. Jones, Jr., 79, of rural Charleston, passed away Sunday, May 11, 2025 at SBLHC.

Tom was born April 6, 1946 at Charleston, born to Ruby (Hill) Smith.  He was adopted by Ruth (Hill) and Thomas C. Jones, Sr.   He married Gloria Jean Dare, February 14, 1982 at Oakland; she survives.  Also surviving are their children, Jana Glidewell, Chris Jones, Kevin Jones, Jamie Cunningham, Nikki Dare, and Lisa (Jim) Guymon; grandchildren, Jaylin (Kenzie) Jones, Brandon, Jared, Cameron, and Cassidy Galeener; Shawn Cunningham, Jessica and Jacob Cunningham, and Blaine and Kaleb Guymon; as well as sixteen great-grandchildren; and his in-laws, Diane (Mike) Stirrett, Debbie (John) Dick, and Danny (Bev) Dare.  He was preceded in death by his parents, and a grandson, Shane Cunningham.

Tom worked for Farrier Construction and the Teamsters for thirty-two years. He enjoyed 4-H activities and County Fairs from the age of 9 to 79.  Tom was a member of the Coles County Fair Board of Directors for 35 years, serving as Vice President for several years, and then as its' President for 19 years.  He was a Past President of the Charleston Gun Club, former 4-H Leader, Extension Council Member, and had been an Ashmore Township Trustee.

In the past three years, he had suffered a broken neck, femur, broken ribs, and fractured vertebrae, enduring several hospital stays.  He made it through everything with the help and support of his wife and very special friends, Chris and Rachel (Brown) Thoele and their family.

After years of battling health issues, Tom is now at peace with his good old dog, Rusty, who died just five days prior to his death, and is enjoying a beer and shooting the breeze with Bill Kemper.

Even while Tom wasn't in great health, he took care of Coles County Fair business from his hospital bed, to ensure our community would have bull riding to enjoy again this year.  Tom truly led a life of service to the people and animals of his community.

A Celebration of His Life will begin at 2:00 p.m. Sunday, May 18, 2025 in the Merchants Building at the Coles County Fairgrounds.  Following the service, a time of visitation will follow until 4:00 p.m.  Memorial donations in his honor may be made to: The Coles County Animal Shelter or the Coles County Fair Association.