Tyson Jeffrey Whittum

Age 18, of Braidwood, Illinois, passed away unexpectedly on March 26, 2026.

Fondly known by many of his friends as “T Whit” and to his family as “Ty”, Tyson is the beloved son of Jeffrey and Brindy (Arseneau) Whittum. He was raised in Braidwood and was a senior at Reed-Custer High School.

From a young age, Ty embraced every opportunity to grow and experience life. Over the years, he participated in a variety of sports: soccer, basketball, baseball, and football, eventually discovering his true athletic passion in wrestling. In fifth grade, Ty found another calling, which was music, and that quickly became one of the defining joys of his life.

An exceptionally talented musician, Ty excelled on the saxophone. He earned numerous honors while playing, some including; first place in Solo & Ensemble, first chair in the ICE Honor Band, first section leader, and selection to the ILMEA District Honor Band. He was also a member of the RCHS Honors Jazz Combo. Gifted beyond formal training, Ty taught himself to play both guitar and piano. He proudly performed in the RCHS Marching Band and shared his musical gifts as part of the worship team at Ignite Christian Church.

Ty balanced his many talents with dedication and discipline. He maintained a full academic load as a member of the National Honor Society while working at Beaver Creek Golf Carts. Committed to personal growth, he spent time lifting and staying active, always striving to better himself.

Outside of school and work, Ty found joy in simple and meaningful moments, which entailed fishing, family bowling nights and most importantly, being there for others. Whether offering a ride, supporting a family in need, or showing up for his siblings, Ty was generous with both his time and his heart.

Soft-spoken, humble, and deeply kind, Ty left a lasting impression on all who knew him. Teachers and coaches alike shared that there will never be another Tyson Whittum. He carried himself with quiet strength, and was an old soul who was respectful, dependable, and driven. Ty was intelligent without arrogance and motivated without seeking recognition; he simply showed up and always gave his best.

Tyson had a bright future ahead of him. He was scheduled to ship out with the United States Marine Corps in October, where he planned to pursue a path in the mechanical field with the ultimate goal of finishing a degree in engineering.

Though his life was far too short, Ty’s compassion, character, and love for others will remain his enduring legacy. He will live on in the hearts and memories of all who were fortunate enough to know and love him.

Survivors include his parents: Jeff and Brindy Whittum of Braidwood; three siblings: Emma, Maggie and Daniel “Deebo”; his grandparents: Doug and Diane Whittum and JoAnn Arseneau; paternal great grandfathers: Gene Whittum and Joe Curtis; aunts and uncles: Laura (Wayne) Pooré, Amy (David) Quigley and Shari (Craig) Dufrain, and cousins: Halyn, Hunter, Esau, Emmalyn, Gideon, Grayson, Madalyn, Maxon, Maelyn, Riley and Kenadie, as well as countless friends.

Tyson was preceded in death by his grandfather, Rodney Arseneau; maternal great grandparents: Roger and Marlene Arseneau and James and Patricia Flora and paternal great grandmothers: Shirley Whittum and Viola Curtis.

The family will receive friends for a visitation at Ignite Christian Church, 1180 West 1st Street in Braidwood on Friday, April 3, 2026 between the hours of 4:00 p.m. and 8:00 p.m. Funeral services will follow on Saturday morning, April 4, 2026 at 10:00 a.m. in the church.

Burial will be in Mount Olivet Cemetery in Braidwood.

Preferred memorials in lieu of flowers may be made as gifts in Tyson’s memory to his family for distribution to Ty’s sponsored family in The Congo and to honor his love of music in supporting the Reed Custer Music Department.

Family and friends are encouraged to log onto www.BaskervilleFuneral.com to sign the guest book, upload photographs and share Tyson’s memorial page online through social media.

Funeral services and arrangements have been made under the direction and care of Reeves, Fruland & Baskerville Funeral Homes and Crematory. (815/476-2181)