Thomas W. Mansfield 1950-2024

Thomas W. Mansfield, a renowned attorney in Southern Illinois for over 40 years, died on Sunday, July 7, 2024, at the age of 74 at his home.

Tom was born in Springfield, Illinois, on March 14, 1950, to Carl J. and Ida M. (Hackwith) Mansfield. Tom served in the United States Army in both Vietnam and Germany. He attended Southern Illinois University Carbondale (SIUC) where he earned a bachelor’s degree in English in 1975. He later received his law degree from SIUC in 1978.

After working in the Jackson County State’s Attorney’s office, he served as an assistant state appellate defender in Mt. Vernon, Illinois. He began private practice in late 1980.

He married D. Jane Dunn, on March 16, 1991, in Murphysboro, Illinois, a schoolteacher who later helped him in his law practice. Tom was a horse racing enthusiast and enjoyed playing golf, poker, fishing, and traveling.

Tom is survived by his wife, Jane; his three children, Michelle (Terrin) Thies, Jackson Mansfield, and James (Janelle) Mansfield; four grandchildren, Mila, Mason, Merrill, and Gavin whom he adored and loved spending time with; his three siblings, Carl (Lueen) Mansfield, Sandra (James) Kovalik, William (Tammy) Baptist, along with many nieces and nephews who he loved very much.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Carl J. and Ida M. (Hackwith) Mansfield, and his sister, Patricia Watkins.

Tom will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all who knew him. 

A visitation will be held at Southern Cremation and Burial Services, 1017 N 14th St., Murphysboro, Illinois, on Monday, July 15, 2024, from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., with a Celebration of Life starting at 12:00 p.m.

Professional services entrusted to Southern Cremation and Burial Services of Murphysboro, Illinois.