Thomas Howard Griffy, age 63, of Louisville, Illinois, passed away Friday evening, February 1, 2019, at Clay County Hospital in Flora.

     Tom was born July 27, 1955, in Flora, the son of Howard F. Griffy and Dorothy Holeman Griffy.  He was united in marriage to Lina K. Rude on March 4, 1977, in Newton, and they have celebrated 41 wedding anniversaries together.

     He was retired from working on the railroad in track maintenance.  He was a longtime member of Wabash Baptist Church in Louisville where he had served as a deacon.  Tom’s giving spirit was shared with others when he volunteered his time to drive for Clay County Hospice and while he visited those who appreciated someone to talk to.  He looked forward to seeing his friends at coffee, and especially being with his grandkids, making memories that will always help them bring back a smile.  He also enjoyed helping Lina take care of the other special “members of the family,” their miniature dachshunds.

     Tom is survived by his wife: Lina Griffy of Louisville; father: Howard (Sharon) Griffy of Urbana; mother: Dorothy Tolliver of Flora; 4 children: Beverly (Brent) Linder of Louisville, Amanda (Josh) Mock of Farina, Andrew Griffy (Sara Mercer) of Kinmundy, Michael Griffy (Mary Moore) of Iola; 7 grandchildren; stepsister and stepbrother: Mistie (Dr. Alfonso) Urdaneta and Scott (Marla) Tolliver both of Salem; and several nieces and nephews.  He was preceded in death by his sister: Beverly Griffy; stepfather: John H Tolliver; and nephew: Shane Lewis.

     A funeral ceremony will begin 1:30 p.m. Wednesday, February 6, 2019, at Frank & Bright Funeral Home in Flora, with Pastor Randy McElroy officiating.  Burial will follow in South Muddy Cemetery in Jasper County.  Visitation will be from 6 until 8 p.m. Tuesday at the funeral home.  Memorial donations are suggested to Clay County Hospice and will be accepted through the funeral home.  Visit the online guestbook at: www.frankandbright.com.