Thomas Sines Roberts

Thomas Sines Roberts, 89, of Illiopolis, IL, passed away on March 23, 2024, at Rochester Estates surrounded by family.

Tom was born on March 12, 1935, to Kent and Marjorie (Sines) Roberts in Decatur, IL. He married Clara Ann Hallam on April 12, 1964. They were married 58 years before she preceded him in death on September 18, 2022. Tom was also preceded by his parents and one brother, Rod Roberts.

He is survived by three sons, Gary (Holly) Hallam of Land O’ Lakes, FL, Curtis (Susan) Hallam of Elkhart, IN, and Bruce (Jan) Hallam of Springfield, IL; three daughters, Sonya (Jeff) Huffines of Edinburg, IL, Ann (Randy) Unger of Herrin, IL, and Christine Roberts of Washington, IL; one brother, John (Dee) Roberts; and one sister-in-law, Joyce Roberts. He is further survived by twelve grandchildren and seventeen great-grandchildren.

Tom attended the University of Illinois and Western Illinois University. He served in the United States Army until 1963 and later in that same year, he was sworn in as a Sangamon County Deputy Sheriff. Tom went on to become a Chief Adult Probation Officer and within a few years was appointed Sangamon County Adult Probation Director, serving 23 years until his retirement. During his career, he had many additional jobs and involvements within his community, including Mayor of Illiopolis for three terms, salesman for Pioneer Seeds, owned and operated H & R Feedstore, leader of the 4-H club his children participated in, raised livestock, and was on the Illiopolis School Board for two terms. He was hardworking and a remarkable provider for his large family.

Tom enjoyed watching and playing sports. He played several sports throughout high school and fast pitch softball for the Army’s “Peace Keeping” team. He was also in a bowling league and bridge league. Tom loved to golf, travel, and spend time with his family.

A memorial service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, April 12, 2024, at Fullenwider-Park Funeral Home in Illiopolis with a visitation an hour prior. Following the service, burial of both Tom and Clara will be at Riverside Cemetery in Illiopolis. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Illiopolis Christian Church (304 Anne St., Illiopolis, IL 62539).

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