Thomas Spurgeon

Thomas Spurgeon (Tom), 87, of Peoria Heights, Illinois and most recently, Washington, Illinois, passed away peacefully on March 28, 2026. Born on August 29, 1938, in Columbus, Indiana, he lived a life marked by service, leadership, and unwavering dedication to his community, his country, and people he loved. A proud graduate of Purdue University with a Bachelor of Science in Industrial Management, Tom went on to earn an MBA from Indiana University and later completed the Executive Program at Stanford University. He began his career with notable distinction as a Nuclear Weapons Officer in the U.S. Army with the Defense Atomic Support Agency (DASA). He was recognized as a Distinguished Military Graduate from Purdue. Throughout his professional life, Tom held numerous leadership roles, including President & CEO of Lincoln Office, Chairman of Cosco, President of L.R. Nelson, President of Gott Corporation, and General Manager at Cummins Engine Company. He was an owner of Coyote Creek Golf Club. Tom’s professional excellence and business acumen earned him the respect of peers and colleagues across industries. Tom was deeply devoted to civic and charitable service. Over the years, he served and contributed to a wide array of organizations, including Purdue University Board of Trustees (2005-2020), Unity Point Hospital, Bradley University, Southwestern College, Central Illinois Public Television, Methodist Church, Children's Hospital of Illinois, Hult Health Education, Easter Seals, American Red Cross, Peoria Symphony Orchestra, Peoria Chamber of Commerce, Heart of Illinois United Way, Central Illinois Community Foundation, Purdue Alumni Association, and Indiana University Business Alumni. Tom’s lifetime of contributions earned him numerous honors, including an Honorary Degree from St. John's College, induction into the Columbus High School Hall of Fame, membership in Phi Gamma Delta fraternity at Purdue, and Beta Gamma Sigma at Indiana University. Beyond his professional and civic achievements, Tom was known for his love of golf and cherished winters spent at his home in Desert Mountain in Scottsdale, Arizona. His warmth, generosity, and integrity touched everyone fortunate enough to know him. He is survived by his loving wife, Joy Spurgeon; his children, Eric Spurgeon, Delia Spurgeon, Chad (Amanda) Cline and Ty Cline; his sister, Myra (William) Stinnett; six grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren. Tom will be remembered for his dedication, compassion, strong leadership, and unwavering commitment to improving the lives of others. Tom’s funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, April 8, 2026, at First United Methodist Church in Peoria, with visitation at the church from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service. Rev. Dr. Tim Ozment will officiate. A graveside service, with military honors, will be held at 2:00 p.m. (EST) on Thursday, April 9, 2026, at Garland Brook Cemetery in Columbus, Indiana. Gary Deiters Funeral Home & Cremation Services in East Peoria is assisting the family. For those who are unable to attend Tom’s service, it will be available at https://firstunitedmethodistchurchpeoriail.subspla.sh/t2m4mvs for you to watch from home. Memorial contributions may be made to First United Methodist Church of Peoria. Online condolences may be left at www.GaryDeitersFH.com.

Thomas Spurgeon

August 29, 1938 - March 28, 2026