Thomas A. "Tom" Coats 94 Oblong died Friday July 12, 2002 at his residence. He was born on February 3, 1908 and Spencerville, Ohio and was the daughter of Claud W. Coats and Arminta (Montague) Coats. On July 24, 1932, he married Grace Morgan who died on April 11, 1982. On April 3, 1983, he married Irma (Heck) Harkins who survives.
In the 1930's, he operated a grocery store and filling station in Casey, State Police for 3 years, Oil & License Inspector for the Secretary of State and he also over the years owned several businesses in Casey. Tom was a Navy Veteran of WWII. Tom belonged to the Casey V.F.W. Post 5762, Hazel Dell American Legion Post # 1230, 32 Degree Mason and 50 Year member of Casey Masonic Lodge #422, Life Member Lodge Council Chapter Consistory Scottish Rite- Valley of Danville, Shrine member of Zorah Temple- Terre Haute, Indiana and graduate of Casey High School Class of 1927.
Tom is survived by his wife Irma, son and daughter-in-law Claude & Suzanne Coats, daughter and son-in-law Misty & Jeff Carter, 2 grandchildren Kellie Halbach and Joshua Carter.
He is preceded in death by his parents, first wife and a sister Gladys Carroll. It was Tom's request his body be cremated and that he be given a graveside service and Washington Street Cemetery in Casey, Illinois.