John Thomas "Tom" Meachum passed away in his home at 11:40 p.m. Saturday (April 25, 2015) surrounded by family.
Tom was born in Taylorville on July 9, 1946.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Russell Dole and Julia Hayden Meachum; his sister, Jeannie; his brother, Billie; his grandson, Joseph Patrick McPherson; and his beloved dog, Roscoe.
He is survived by his wife, Linda, whom he married on June 30, 1973; his beloved children, Kelly McPherson (John) and William Meachum (Joy); five grandchildren, John Thomas "Jack," Julia, Benjamin, Jason and Hayden; and two sisters, Ellen Indermark and Mary Margaret "Bucket" Rora.
Tom served his country as a proud Marine corporal from 1965-1968. Tom actively served and led as a faithful member of the Mahomet United Methodist Church. He had a passion for serving the Lord and others, expressed in his many mission trips and willingness to help those in need.
He loved serving his community by being a member of the Mahomet Lions Club, where he could be found each year greeting people at the annual music festival in the beer tent. He was also a member of the Upper Sangamon River Conservatory, the American Business Club and the Champaign County Democratic Committee.
He spent 30 years as a copy equipment salesman and later became the registrar for the Museum of the Grand Prairie, from which he retired in October 2014. Tom spent many years as a videographer for family and school events even becoming an honorary Thespian.
He loved model trains and ran a model train business where he spent countless hours "playing trains" with his grandsons. He was an avid reader and could be found sitting on his swing in the front yard. He loved to travel and attend theater with his wife and friends. He was active in prison ministry, Walk to Emmaus and mentoring youth, and had a passion for archaeology and history.
Tom loved to tease his family and friends and always had a sparkle in his eye. He could be found at his grandchildren's games, popcorn bag in hand, cheering them on.
Special thanks to Dr. Sather, Dr. Egner and Dr. Youseff as well as Karen, an R.N. with Carle Hospice.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Meachum family and will be distributed to his favorite organizations.
Visitation will be from 4 to 7 p.m. Wednesday at Mahomet United Methodist Church, with service at 10:30 a.m. Thursday.