Thomas James Ruddy

Age 82 of Plainfield, died Sunday morning, November 30, 2025 at Alden Estates of Naperville.

Born December 30, 1942, in Joliet, Illinois, Thomas was the son of James Joseph and Mary Louise (O’Neill) Ruddy. He was raised in Joliet, attended St. Patrick’s Grade School, and graduated from Joliet Township High School with the Class of 1960. Following high school, Thomas proudly served in the United States Navy until his honorable discharge in 1966.

On May 27, 1967, he married Rennea Pawloski in Lemont, and together they built a loving home and raised their family in Plainfield, Illinois. Thomas dedicated nearly four decades to a career in railroading, beginning with the EJ&E, the Burlington Northern before moving to The Beltway Railway Co. of Chicago, and later, a supervisor for the Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers as he concluded his career with Metra.

A gifted musician from a young age, Thomas played both the clarinet and bass clarinet. Over the years he performed with the Joliet Catholic Grade School Band of which he was an original member, Joliet Township High School Band, the American Legion Band, the Joliet Bicentennial Pops Band, and the JJC Community Band. He also enjoyed acting in local theater and was especially proud to be a featured background actor and stand-in for numerous television shows and movies.
Thomas was a man of many interests. He was a licensed pilot who also loved building and flying model airplanes and was an active member of the Grundy Co. Aero Modelers. With Rennea always by his side they enjoyed antiquing, traveling to Ireland, boating, fishing and above all, spending time with their grandchildren.

Survivors include his children: Todd (Jennifer) Ruddy of Plainfield, Dr. Julie Ruddy (Jeff Zwolinski) of Palmetto Bay, Florida, and Brian (Staci) Ruddy of Plainfield; grandchildren: Shawn (Alyssa) Ruddy, Jacob Ruddy, James Ruddy, Samantha (Neil) Ruddy, Jill Zwolinski, John Zwolinski, Conner Ruddy, Peyton Ruddy and Kaitlyn Ruddy. His Godchildren: John and Kimberly Perona, and cousin Susan Wilson of Crossville, Tennessee as well as dearest friends Darrell and Pat Herman, Ron and Kathy Kazmar, Deb and Mark Arabadjief.

Thomas is preceded in death by his wife, Rennea.

Cemetery committal services will be held at Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery in Elwood on Friday, December 5, 2025 at 12:00 p.m. Those wishing to attend are requested to assemble at the cemetery by 11:45 a.m.

In lieu of flowers, preferred memorials in Thomas’ memory may be made to St. Jude Children's Hospital (www.StJude.org).

Family and friends are encouraged to log onto www.ReevesFuneral.com to sign the guestbook, upload photographs and share Thomas’ memorial page online through social media. 

Funeral services and arrangements have been made under the direction and care of Reeves Funeral Homes, Ltd. in Coal City. (815-634-2125)