Thomas Corkern

Thomas Lane "Tommy" Corkern, a devoted husband, father, and grandfather, passed away peacefully on Saturday, December 28, 2024, surrounded by his loving wife and daughters. He was born on Saturday, November 7, 1953. A man of deep faith, he shared in his final moments that God had assured him a warm welcome home.

Tommy spent much of his life serving his community as a dedicated member of the Hammond Police Department, where he earned the respect and admiration of his colleagues and the public alike. Upon retirement, he and his wife fulfilled their dream of settling in Southern Illinois, where they cultivated a life filled with simple joys and meaningful work. He found immense pleasure in tending to the land, hauling grain to the river, and working the fields with his beloved tractors. Whether alongside his animals or driving the tractor through the rich Midwestern soil, Tommy was in his element, embracing the life he cherished. His legacy is one of integrity, hard work, and kindness. He touched the lives of everyone who knew him, and his steadfast character will be a guide to all who follow in his footsteps. 

Tommy is survived by his loving wife of 30 years, Dana; his devoted daughters and sons-in-law, Richelle Hoover and husband Michael, and Jennifer Granier and husband Craig; 11 grandchildren, Stephenie Reid (Gabriel), Brianna Folse (Austin), Thomas Corkern, Dakota Corkern, Lane Hoover, Karson Jones, Grayson Jones, John Hoover, Leighann Corkern, Ryatt Granier, and Everett Granier; and 2 great grandchildren, Ellie Reid and Leon Folse; his mother, Barbara Ann Touchstone; brothers, Kenneth Corkern and wife Vicki, and Keith Corkern. Also survived by numerous nieces and nephews, many beloved friends, and his animals.

Preceded in death by his only son, Craig Corkern; father, John Q. Corkern; and brother, John W. Corkern.

While the world is a little dimmer without him, his memory will continue to shine brightly in the hearts of those who love and respect him.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend the Celebration of Tommy's Life on Sunday, January 12, 2025, at the Hammond Police Union Hall, 201 Natchez Street, Hammond, LA 70403. The visitation will begin at 1:00 pm followed by the Memorial Service at 2:30 pm. 

Donations may be made in memory of Tommy to a cause close to his heart, by mail to Project Hope Humane Society, P.O. Box 125, Metropolis, IL 62960 - online through PayPal using info@projecthopehumanesociety.org or by mail to Kat Vet, 158 W Pine Street, Ponchatoula, LA. 70454 - online www.katvet.org/donate.