Tommy Ray Garber

Tommy Ray Garber of Virden passed away on Sunday, December 22, 2024 at the age of 69. He was born in Fort Riley, Kansas on April 5, 1955 to Homer Garber and Rose Jäger Garber. 

Tom served in the Army for 6 years (1974-1980). He graduated with a Bachelor of Arts Psychology degree from the Sangamon State University in 1990. He was employed by and retired from the Illinois Department of Human Rights as a Human Rights Investigator. 

Tom’s greatest passion was music. He was a guitar and bass player in several bands over the years and enjoyed writing music at home. He loved camping, German cars, reading, foreign films, and had a deep enthusiasm for astronomy. He also built several homes during the late 90’s - early 00’s in the Virden area. 

Tom was preceded in death by his parents. Surviving are his three children; Jeff Garber, Megan (Jon) Zuker both of California, and Melissa (Austin) Phelps of Colorado; six grandchildren; brother Harry (Roxanne) Garber and sister Debra Schram; several nieces, nephews, and cousins. 

Tom had many canine companions throughout his life and held a soft spot for animals in need. He was a member of the Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Virden. He valued education and volunteered for various organized events at the parish which provided supplement to an educational fund founded by Father August Sperl in 1996. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to the APL or the Caruso-Sperl Irrevocable Charitable Trust Fund. 

Services with be held on Saturday, January 11, 2025 at Sacred Heart Catholic Church at 722 N. Springfield Street, Virden, IL 62690. Visitation at 9:00 am and funeral mass at 10:30 am. 

Memorials may be made to the Animal Protective League or Parochial School Education – Sacred Heart, Virden.

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