Thomas W Elliott
September 17, 1959 - February 16, 2026
Obituary
Lodi - Thomas W. Elliott, age 66, passed away peacefully, surrounded by his family, on Monday, February 16, 2026, at Agrace HospiceCare.
Born September 17, 1959, in Chicago, Tom was the son of William Elliott and Carolyn (Lusk) Ferino. He graduated from St. Gregory High School in 1977. He went on to attend St. Joseph's College, where he played basketball before completing his bachelor’s degree in business administration at Northeastern Illinois University. His Chicago roots shaped the practical, hardworking spirit that defined both his life and career.
Tom built a remarkable and enduring career with FedEx, beginning in the field and steadily rising through the ranks to executive leadership. Through dedication, integrity, and a deep understanding of logistics operations, he earned the respect of colleagues and teams across the region. A true servant leader, he believed leadership meant supporting others, setting an example, and doing the work alongside his team. His leadership style reflected who he was - steady, fair, and quietly confident. He later served as Vice President of Rock Valley Trucking, where he continued to demonstrate the same reliability, strategic insight, and commitment to excellence that had defined his career. He took great pride in his work and in the people he worked alongside each day.
On December 12, 2017, he married Catherine Niesen. Together they created a warm and loving home centered on family. Tom is survived by his wife, Catherine; his sons, Matthew and Joseph (Dominique) Elliott; his stepchildren, Ashley and Tony Dedie; his brother, James (Barbara) Elliott; his stepbrothers, Donald (Karen) Ledbetter and Richard (Laura) Ledbetter; and many other cherished relatives and dear friends. He was preceded in death by his parents and his stepmother, Carol Elliott.
Tom found joy in life’s many passions. He loved the excitement and tradition of the Kentucky Derby. He and his wife Cathy traveled to Louisville many times to attend the race, creating lasting memories together. Tom proudly collected Derby glass cups over the years, each one marking a cherished experience. He also loved hiking the Ice Age Trail with Cathy and their beloved dogs, Rio and Flash, finding both companionship and quiet reflection on long walks.
An avid runner, Tom completed multiple marathons, embracing the discipline and determination the sport required. He was a lifelong lover of music and took pride in building a collection of vinyl records. A devoted fan of the Chicago Bears and the Chicago Cubs, he enjoyed cheering on his teams and gathering with family and friends to watch the games. Most importantly, Tom treasured time spent with those he loved - sharing stories, offering steady advice, and turning ordinary days into meaningful memories.
A memorial service will be held at GUNDERSON LODI FUNERAL AND CREMATION CARE, 157 S. Main St., Lodi, at 11:30 a.m. on Friday, March 6, 2026. Visitation will be held from 10:30 a.m. until the time of service at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital or Agrace HospiceCare.
Tom will be remembered as a steady presence, a patient listener, and a man who appreciated life’s simple blessings. He will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.
Online condolences may be shared at www.gundersonfh.com
Gunderson Lodi
Funeral & Cremation Care
157 South Main Street
(608) 592-3201