Thomas Arnold Short

It is with deep sorrow and loving remembrance, we announce that Thomas Arnold Short, a name synonymous with resilience and a sprinkle of humor, embarked on his final journey, departing peacefully at home. Having used up his time and space on this earth, Tom moved beyond this life on August 15, 2026. He fully embraced his gift of life while on this earth.

He was born in Decatur, Illinois to Oscar P. Short and Audrey Sidener Short on August 2, 1942. Tom married Jerilea Reed on July 14, 2006.

While serving as Military Police in the U.S. Army Reserves, Tom worked many jobs in his young life which gave him multiple skills to be successful in life. He was very proud of his work ethic. T om finally settled in at Caterpillar in 1965. There he had a long and respected career, working his way up from the burr bench to a machinist in the Tool Room/Layout. He retired from Caterpillar on January 1, 2025 with 59+ years of service where he was respected for his reliability and expertise. Tom was a member of the UAW and enjoyed playing cards.

We take comfort in knowing that his memory, and our memories with him, will live on in our hearts. We have all been enriched and will continue to be inspired by Thomas. To honor his time with us, Tom has requested you be humble, be kind to one another, be respectful and laugh a lot.

Tom is survived by his wife, Jerilea, his son Toby (Jenny) of Decatur, IL, daughter Tracy Kovach (Chris) of Decatur, IL and 4 grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, a son, and a brother.

How cool is it that the same God who created mountains and oceans and galaxies, thought the world needed one of him, too. His spirit never wavered, and he remained a source of strength and inspiration to all. The void in his shoes will never be filled. May he forever rest in eternal peace

Someone precious to us has died. We invite you to join us in remembering this special life and support each other. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to a local animal shelter.

Please join us for a Memorial Visitation at Brintlinger and Earl Funeral Homes, Decatur, from 1:00- 2:30 on Friday, August 21, 2026. We will then accompany Tom to his final resting place at Boiling Springs Cemetery for a graveside service with military honors at 3:00 PM. Wear bibs if you got ‘em.