Thomas F. Waddell

Thomas F. Waddell, 88, of Danville, IL passed away at 7:44 AM on December 6, 2025 at OSF Sacred Heart Medical Center in Danville, IL.

Thomas was born on September 28, 1937 the son of Herman “Jack” and Mary (Dokey) Waddell in Danville, IL. He married Judith Laird on July 4, 1996 in Las Vegas, NV and she preceded him in death on April 13, 2009.

Survivors include his children, Lisa (Dave) Split-log of Baton Rouge, LA, Gaylynn (Ben) Gabbard of Tilton, IL, Tanya (Duane) Miller of Georgetown, IL, step children, Jeffrey Griffin Sullivan, IL, Patrick (Gayla) Beagle of Fairfax Station, VA and Leisa (Tom) Nimrick of Richmond, KY, his grandchildren, Valerie Split-log, Daniel Split-log, Michael Swank, David Gabbard, Mathiew Woodard, Larry Woodard, August Booe, Courtney Miller, Tom Waddell, Cori McGhee, Michelle Waddell, Jessica Waddell, Amanda (Amy) Long, Colton Abbott, Dawson Abbott, Ryan Beagle, Nathan Beagle, Ryan Moore and Bethany Cottrill, many great grandchildren, one sister, Margie Waddell as well as several nieces and nephews.

Thomas was preceded in death by his parents, wife, Judith Waddell, son, Thomas Waddell, stepson, Doug Cottrill, five siblings, Chuck Waddell, Phyllis Szilagyi, James “Butch” Waddell, Sue Cannon and Jackie Waddell, and one great grandson, Lucien Miller Englert.

Thomas retired from Heatcraft/Bohn Aluminum after 44 years of service. He enjoyed spending his free time watching boxing and Westerns, hanging out with his neighbors and son-in-law, Ben, and going to the range with Duane. He loved spending time with family and enjoyed holiday gatherings. He had a heart of gold and would help anyone when needed.

A Celebration of Life Visitation will be held from 2-4:00 PM on Sunday, December 14, 2025 at Sunset Funeral Home and Cremation Center in Danville, Illinois, 3940 N Vermilion St. Danville, Illinois 61834.

Memorials may be made in Thomas’ memory to St Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

Please join Thomas’ family in sharing memories, photos, and videos of his life through his tribute wall at www.sunsetfuneralhome.com.