Thomas Rodger Bigham, 82, of Du Quoin, passed away at 3:29 P.M., Tuesday, June 24, 2025 at his residence.
Thomas had been a mine operator for the coal mines for approximately thirty-three years.  He had worked at Freeman United Coal Company #5 in Logan, IL, Freeman United Coal Company Crown Mine #1 in Farmersville, IL, Inland Steel #1 in Sesser, IL, and Consolidation Coal Company #71 in Sesser, IL.  He had also worked at Decca Records in Pinckneyville, Caterpillar in Decatur, and Du Quoin Packing Company.  Thomas had worked as a farmhand in Denmark, IL.  He was a Pinckneyville High School graduate.  Thomas was a United States Army veteran and served from 1963 until 1966.  Thomas was of the Protestant faith.  He enjoyed the outdoors, yard work, and animals.  Thomas loved to spend time with his grandchildren.
He was born November 18, 1942 in Pinckneyville, IL, the son of Lawrence and Cora (McClure) Bigham.
He married Ruth Ann Archer on February 11, 1967 in Du Quoin, IL and she survives.
He is survived by his wife of Du Quoin, one daughter - Michelle DeLavern of Du Quoin, daughter-in-law - Tina Bigham of Newport, KY, one granddaughter - Shilo Wilson and husband William of Peoria, IL, one great grandson - Wade Wilson of Peoria, IL, siblings - Francis Nevins of Terra Haute, IN, Bonita Brooks of Du Quoin, Martha Mansker and husband Jerry of Percy, John Bigham of Murphysboro, Mary Kent of Bridgeton, IN, and Erna Keesee and husband Rick of Boss, MO.
He was preceded in death by his parents, one son - Steven T. Bigham and siblings - W. Leslie Bigham, Robert Bigham, Barbara Tempero, and Ann Salto.
Graveside services will be at 2:00 P.M., Friday, June 27, 2025 at the Sunset Memorial Park in Du Quoin with Rev. Robert Morwell officiating.
Those attending the service are asked to go directly to the cemetery.
Military graveside rites will be conducted by the Du Quoin V.F.W. and American Legion and the Army National Guard.
Burial will be in the Sunset Memorial Park in Du Quoin, IL.
Friends may make memorials to Residential Hospice or Audubon Society and will be accepted at the funeral home.
Searby Funeral Home in Du Quoin is in charge of arrangements.