HERSCHER – Thomas A. Hughes, 83, of Herscher passed away Wednesday, October 7, 2020 at 9:05 p.m. at Heritage Health and Rehab in Dwight, Illinois. Cremation rites have been accorded. A private graveside service has been held. Calvert & Martin Funeral Home in Cullom is handling the arrangements. Memorials may be made to the family. Thomas was born August 2, 1937 in Kankakee, Illinois, the son of Percy and Helen (Sirois) Hughes. He married Bernadine McGinnis on August 3, 1963 in St. Patrick’s Church in Kankakee. He is survived by his wife, Bernadine; two sons: Roland Hughes of Herscher and Terry (Kimberly) Hughes of Clifton; two grandchildren: Aaron and Kasandra Hughes of Clifton; one sister, Mary Swearingen of Ottawa; sister-in-law, Colette Sullivan of St. Anne; brother-in-law, Richard McGinnis of St. Anne; two nieces; one nephew; and many cousins. He was preceded in death by his parents and one niece, Jolie Ellis. Thomas was a lifelong farmer who shelled corn for many years and drove a truck hauling grain. He served in the Navy for six years. He was a lifelong member of the Cabery Methodist Church and held many positions on the board there. He was a trustee for Rogers Township and Clayton Cemetery for many years. He served as a trustee for Bergan, Goodman, Taylor Drainage District. Thomas was a good storyteller and a great mentor to young adults. At the time he did not realize that to be true, until later in life when they stepped forward and said, “Thanks, Tom.” This obituary may be viewed and guestbook signed at calvertmemorial.com