Mr. Thomas “Tom” R. Baughman, lovingly known as “Baughie,” 74, of Galesburg, Illinois, died unexpectedly on Saturday, November 29, 2025, at OSF St. Mary Medical Center in Galesburg.
He was born June 27, 1951, in Galesburg, the son of Jack and Audrey Juanita (Tonkin) Baughman. He married Debbie Patterson and later married Mary Lindsay. On June 15, 1996, he married the love of his life, Julie A. Pinkham, and the two shared 29 years together.
Tom is survived by his wife, Julie A. Baughman of Galesburg; three sons, Brandon (and Kennedy) Baughman of Galesburg, Ryan Farrell of Peoria, Illinois, and T.J. Farrell of North Carolina; two daughters, Lindsay (and Kevin) Stimeling of Galesburg and Cassie (and Sarah Beaulieu) Casper of Arizona; two brothers, Jon (and Penny) Baughman of Galesburg and Steve (and Jenny) Baughman of Wisconsin; nine grandchildren; and five great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents; a daughter, Tammy Felix, in 2022; and his sister, Jackie Simmons.
Tom graduated from Galesburg High School in 1969. He proudly served in the United States Army from 1971 to 1979, with stations in Seattle, Washington; Korea; and Japan. Upon returning home, he joined the Galesburg Fire Department, where he served as a firefighter for 38½ years before retiring on November 30, 2018.
Known for his warm and outgoing spirit, Baughie never knew a stranger. He loved socializing—whether chatting with folks at the grocery store or enjoying his “Two Daily” beers at Duffy’s. He was deeply respected by his fellow firefighters.
A devoted Chicago Cubs’ and Chicago Bears’ fan, Tom also enjoyed playing basketball with the “Noon Ballers” at Carl Sandburg College. He loved to cook and made it his mission to have dinner ready for Julie when she came home from work. Above all, he adored his family. He was immensely proud of each one of them and never missed an opportunity to brag or share photos—whether people asked or not.
Tom treasured his dog, Wrigley, taking him on car rides and preparing special treats. Compassionate, kind, and endlessly giving, he leaves an immeasurable hole in the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to spend even a minute in his presence.
Visitation will be held from 5-7 p.m. on Friday, December 5, 2025, at Hinchliff-Pearson-West Funeral Directors and Cremation Services Galesburg Chapel. Funeral services will take place at 10 a.m. on Saturday, December 6, 2025, at the chapel, with Chaplain Glen Bocox officiating. Military rites will be conducted by the Knox County Honor Guard following the service. Burial will be at Oak Lawn Memorial Gardens, Galesburg.
Memorials may be made to the Galesburg Fire Department, St. Jude Children’s Hospital, or the charity of the donor’s choice. Online condolences may be shared at www.h-p-w.com.
