Thomas C. Grace

Thomas Claude “Tom” Grace, aged 85, of East Moline, Illinois, and formerly a proud resident of Cobden, Illinois, passed away peacefully on Friday, October 6, 2023, at home with family at his side.

His life will be celebrated with a memorial service at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, October 21, in the Horizon Room at Trimble Funeral Home at Trimble Pointe, 701 12th Street, Moline, with visitation one hour prior to services.  Following the service, a funeral luncheon will be held at CityView Celebrations (lower level) at Trimble Pointe. The family kindly requests that memorial contributions be made to Pets Are Worth Saving, Inc. (PAWS), 52 Dog Walk Road, Anna, IL 62906, in honor of Tom's lifelong love for animals.

Thomas Claude Grace was born on September 20, 1938, in Sodus, New York, the cherished son of Claude Henry and Grace (Richardson) Grace. His early years were marked by service to his country, as he proudly served as a paratrooper in the U.S. Army's esteemed 82nd Airborne Division, where he was a member of the Black Panther Battle Group.

Education was a cornerstone of Tom's life, and he embarked on a journey of academic excellence that culminated in a Master's Degree in Rehabilitation Counseling from the Southern Illinois University Carbondale. On September 2, 1972, he joined his life with that of Linda VanDeven in the bonds of matrimony in Murphysboro, Illinois.

For over 35 years, Tom dedicated himself to the Illinois Department of Mental Health, ultimately retiring in 2001. His career led him to the Anna State Hospital, later known as the Choate Mental Health and Developmental Center, where he made a profound impact on countless lives, demonstrating unwavering compassion and dedication to his work.

Tom's deep connection to the natural world was evident to all who knew him. He found solace and joy in the great outdoors, tending to his gardens and meticulously mowing in his beloved John Deere tractor. His commitment to his family was his driving force, and he cherished every moment spent in their company.

Left to cherish his memory is his beloved wife of over 51 years, Linda Grace, and their three children: John (Anne Shriner) Grace of Skokie, Illinois; Kristin Grace of Chicago, Illinois; and Kathy Grace of East Moline. Tom was a proud grandfather to four adoring granddaughters, Mya, Amira, Charlotte, and Madeline Grace. He is also survived by his brother, W. Charles Grace. He was preceded in death by his parents and a brother, Richard Grace.

Tom's legacy of love, dedication, and compassion will forever live on in the hearts of those who knew him. His family invites friends to share their cherished stories and condolences on the memorial website at TrimbleFuneralHomes.com. In honoring Tom's memory, may we all find inspiration in his life's remarkable example of service, love, and devotion to family and community.

Stories and condolences may be shared at TrimbleFuneralHomes.com.