Thomas James Carruthers, Longtime Postal Worker, Dies at 71

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Thomas James Carruthers, a 71-year-old resident of Galesburg, Illinois, passed away on March 19, 2026, at OSF St. Francis Medical Center in Peoria. Carruthers had a 36-year career with the U.S. Postal Service, retiring in 2013. He is survived by his wife of 51 years, Glenda, a son, and eight grandchildren, some of whom he and Glenda had been raising since 2022.

Why it matters

Carruthers' long career with the Postal Service and his devotion to his family, especially his grandchildren, highlight the importance of public service and the enduring bonds of family in the Galesburg community.

The details

Thomas James Carruthers was born on July 24, 1954, in Moline, Illinois, to James Alex and June (Fraikes) Carruthers. He married Glenda Sue Akers on August 10, 1974, at the Toulon Methodist Church in Toulon, Illinois. Carruthers began working for the U.S. Postal Service shortly after his marriage and had a 36-year career, retiring in 2013. He is survived by his wife, a son, and eight grandchildren, some of whom he and Glenda had been raising since 2022. Carruthers was preceded in death by his daughter, Mary Carruthers, who passed away on October 20, 2022.

• Thomas James Carruthers was born on July 24, 1954.
• Carruthers married Glenda Sue Akers on August 10, 1974.
• Carruthers began working for the U.S. Postal Service shortly after his marriage and had a 36-year career, retiring in 2013.
• Carruthers' daughter, Mary Carruthers, passed away on October 20, 2022.
• Carruthers passed away on March 19, 2026.