Thomas Wayne Wilson 78 of Carterville passed away Wednesday January 7, 2026 at the VA Medical Center in Marion.

Thomas was born on September 1, 1947 in Herrin to Thomas and Kathalene Wilson. They preceded him in death.

Thomas is survived by his wife Carlene; son Brian Cleaver and wife Kristina; daughter Michelle Showalter and husband David; foster daughters Ruby, and Ruth; grandchildren Lacy, Christopher, Mackenzie, Travis, Ryan, Justin, and Jennifer; great-grandchildren Finley, Bentley, Charlee, Makenna, and Madisyn.

Thomas is preceded in death by his son Scott Cleaver and his brother Harry Wilson.

He is a Vietnam Veteran, a skilled woodcarver, civil engineer, avid fisherman, and outdoorsman. He was a mountain of a man but with a tender heart. He loved to read and was very quiet unless he thought he had something important to say.

Services will be held January 17 at 2 P.M. at the Murman & Wilson Funeral Home in Johnston City with Bill Wilson officiating. Visitation will be held from 1 P.M. to the time of the service. Inurnment will follow at the Lakeview Cemetery with Military Rites.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Herrin VFW