TERRENCE L. BIGHAM

Terrence Bigham

Terrence L. Bigham, 81, died Aug. 22, 2024, at his home in Macomb, following complications from COPD/pneumonia, with family by his side.

He was born Dec. 17, 1942, in Rushville, a son of William and Marian Bigham. He first married Gearline Campbell in 1967. They later divorced. On Sept. 26, 1986, he married Lois (Cole) Shinberger of Macomb. She survives.

Also surviving are five children, Steve Bigham, Cindy (and Buzz) Fleetwood, Bobby (and Penny) Campbell, Bryan (and Darcie) Shinberger and Diana (and Guy) Cale; two sisters, Barbara (and Benny) Rittenhouse and Bette Workman; two brothers, Bob (and Merilea) Bigham and Tom (and Cyndi) Bigham; 18 grandchildren; and 17 great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by one son, James.

A 1960 graduate of Rushville High School, he joined the United States Coast Guard following graduation, proudly serving for four years. A highlight of his military career was marching in John F. Kennedy’s inaugural parade. After returning home from service, he went to work for Caterpillar Tractor in East Peoria from 1964 until his retirement in 1994. Even after retiring from Caterpillar after 30 years of driving to East Peoria, he hopped back behind the wheel, this time driving the Red Cross van for 10 years.

He was an active member of several military and social organizations for many years, including the 40/8 General’s Club, 40/8 Blue Chavaliers Life Member, VFW Post Auxiliary #1921 Life Member, American Legion Post #4 (59 years), the Voiture #1100 Schuyler County (40/8) (52 years), Macomb Elks Lodge #1009 (37 years) and the AmVets of Knoxville. He was also proud to serve as a member of the VFW #1921/American Legion Post #6 Honor Guard. One of his proudest moments was being a part of the Oct. 13, 2022, Great River Honor Flight to Washington, D.C., accompanied by his son, Steve. He attended Wesley United Methodist Church in Macomb.

Cremation rites have been accorded. A Celebration of Life is planned for late September (time, date and location to be decided). Dodsworth-Piper-Wallen Funeral Home in Macomb is in charge of arrangements.

Memorials may be made to American Legion Post #6/VFW Post #1921 Honor Guard, MDH Hospice or the 40/8 Nurse’s Training.

Sign guestbook or leave condolences at www.dodsworthfh.com.

Published in the Astoria South Fulton Argus on 8/28/2024