Thomas E. Hicks

Thomas E. Hicks, 76, of Danville passed away on January 23, 2025, at OSF in Urbana, IL surround by his loved ones.  He was born on August 4, 1948, in Danville, Il, the son of Amaretta and Thomas (Bert) Hicks.  He married Janis Wallace on April 1, 1993, in Danville, IL.  She survives him along with his son, T.J. Hicks and daughter, Carol (Doug) Weber.  His stepchildren: Deanna (Bobby) Leonard, Tracy Collom, Amy (Brad) Peterson, and Angela Klajbor.  Grandchildren: Brook Hicks, Trent Hicks, Ryan (Alyson) Hicks, A.J. (Dane) Conner, Josh Weber, Nate Weber, Taler Leonard, Tylan Leonard, Kyle Collom, Kamryn Collom, Nick Anspach, Makayla Peterson, Kendra Peterson, Nicole Gibson, Krissy Klajbor, Hannah (Austin) Mathis, and nine great grandchildren.  One sister-in-law Mary Ann Williams.  Preceding him in death were his parents, his brothers Bobby, Bill, and Jimmy, his sister Janice Vellia, and infant granddaughter Maranda Peterson.

Tom owned Hicks Furniture Refinishing and Repair and retired from the University of Illinois.  He was an avid ILLINI fan.  Tom was very proud of T.J.’s children who served in the military.  He was also proud of his daughter Carol and her son A.J. who both served in the Air Force.  Tom had many “Words of Wisdom” for his family and friends, especially his grandchildren who all had a special place in his heart.  He liked finding hidden coffee pods that Tracy would hide in his home and Hershey’s candy that Amy would bring often.  He loved seeing the latest gadgets Deanna would drop off and listening to the recordings Angela captured through the years.  He enjoyed his early morning phone buddy conversations with Bob and Mary Floriani from Tennessee, Mike Sanks of Danville, and his coffee buddy, Steve Drollinger. 

Tom will be greatly missed by his family and friends. Tom loved his precious dog Cindy who will also miss him dearly.   Per Tom’s wishes, there will be no services.  Cremation has been entrusted to Rortvedt Funeral Services & Crematory. Online condolences: www.rortvedtfuneralservices.com.

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