Thomas A. “Fat Rat” Lunsford, 80, of Watseka passed away on Thursday, May 2, 2024 at his daughter’s home in Grant Park. He was born on August 13, 1943 in Gary, IN, the son of Thomas “Bud” and Olive (Boesell) Lunsford. He married Hope Hendershot on April 20, 1970 in Waukegan and she preceded him in passing on June 18, 2012.

 

Surviving are his children, Deanna (Daniel) Junker of Grant Park, Thomas Lunsford (April Parker) of Fort Smith, AR, and Larry Lunsford of Bourbonnais; his grandchildren, Hillary Hubert, Bethany Junker, Kortney Junker, Alyssa Regnier, Gabriella Lunsford, Tommy Lunsford, Sophia Lunsford, Max Lunsford, Tyler Lunsford, Liam Lunsford, Connor Lunsford, Grace Lunsford, and Jesson Lunsford; great grand-daughter, Aubree Byrd; brother, Rick (Betsy) Lunsford; sisters, Barbara (Leon) Richmond, Linda Durham, Stacy (James) Woolan; special daughters, Tina Birr and Jill Witthoft; special nephews, Tony Hendershot and Aaron Hendershot.

 

He was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Hope; brothers, Larry Lunsford, Jim Lunsford, Roger Lunsford, Mike Lunsford, Tim Lunsford; sister-in-law, Joy Crosswell; brothers-in-law, Jay Hendershot and Russell Birr.

 

Thomas enjoyed playing the lottery, classic cars, playing cards, and spending time with his family. He was a veteran of the United States Navy and proudly served his country.

 

Visitation will be from 10:00-11:00 am on Monday, May 13, 2024 at Baier Funeral Home in Watseka. A Celebration of Life service will follow at 11:00 am at the funeral home. Graveside military rites and burial will be at 2:30 pm at Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery in Elwood, IL.

 

Memorials may be made to the donor’s choice.