Thomas E. Wheatley, age 90, of Rock Island, passed away peacefully at his home on Wednesday, January 7, 2026, surrounded by the love and comfort of his family. Visitation will be held from 12:00 to 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, January 10, 2026, at Wheelan-Pressly Funeral Home and Crematory in Rock Island. A service celebrating Thomas's life will immediately follow at 2:00 p.m. Memorials may be made to the family.

Thomas was born on August 2, 1935, in Hazen, Arkansas, to Elwood and Sallie (Long) Wheatley. He was first married to Shirley A. Carrell, who preceded him in death. On April 9, 1970, he married Linda Mountain in Moline, beginning a loving partnership that endured for more than five decades.

Thomas proudly served his country as a United States Navy veteran during the Korean War. He dedicated 32 years of his working life to International Harvester, later Case IH, in East Moline. During that time, he also owned and operated J & L Trucking, reflecting his strong work ethic and entrepreneurial spirit. After retirement, Thomas spent the next 15 years working  at TJ and son Truck service in Aledo, owned and operated by his eldest son Tom Jr.

Above all else, Thomas cherished time spent with his family. He found joy in golfing, reading, and sharing stories and laughter with those he loved most.

He is lovingly remembered by his wife, Linda; his children, Thomas (Kathy) Wheatley, Artis (David) Bitterman, Crystal (Randy) Kitterman, Tomi (Robert) Coronado, and Jamie Pate; his son-in-law, Simon Milton; 37 grandchildren; 39 great-grandchildren; 9 great-great-grandchildren; and sisters, Shirley, Ernie and Glenda. Thomas was preceded in death by his parents, Elwood and Sallie Wheatley; his sons, Reggie and Donald; his daughters, Laura and Alma; six sisters; and four brothers. Online condolences may be shared with the family at wheelanpressly.com.