Thomas Edward Yaw (71) of Newton

Thomas Edward "Tom" Yaw, age 71, of Newton, Illinois, passed away at 3:00 PM Monday, June 28, 2021, at his home. 

Funeral services celebrating Tom’s life will be held at 10:00 AM Friday, July 2, 2021, at the First Baptist Church in Newton, Illinois, with Steve Willis officiating. Burial will be in the Aten Cemetery in rural Hidalgo, Illinois, with full military rites by the Jasper Post #20 American Legion. Visitation will be held from 5:00-7:00 PM Thursday, July 1, 2021 at the First Baptist Church in Newton, Illinois. In loving memory of Tom, memorials may be made to the Newton Ministerial Association. Arrangements are under the care of the Meyer Funeral Home in Newton, Illinois.  The obituary can be viewed and condolences left by clicking here. 

Thomas Edward better known as “Tom” was born on June 24, 1950, in Newton, Illinois, the son of Paul Edward and Mary Beth (Kinsel) Yaw. Tom graduated from Newton Community High School with the class of 1968. He enlisted in the United States Marine Corps in 1969, and proudly served for 4 years during the Vietnam War.  Although he qualified as a marksman, he chose to join the crash crew. On June 23, 1974, he met the love of his life Betty Martin and they were united in marriage on July 18, 1975. Together they raised two children, Jeannie and David. Tom enjoyed spending time with friends, family, especially his kids and grandchildren. He found enjoyment in taking short trips with family. 

Tom was a member of the First Baptist Church in Newton, Illinois and the Jasper Post #20 American Legion. Tom enjoyed fishing and tinkering on motors. He was a devoted husband, a proud dad, grandpa and great grandpa.

Tom is survived by his wife of 45 years - Betty Yaw of Newton, Illinois; Children - Jeannie (Jake) Burrell of Teutopolis, Illinois and David (Lisa) Yaw of Newton, Illinois; Grandchildren - Dylan Johnson, Taylor Johnson both of Newton, Illinois and Josh Burrell of Teutopolis, Illinois; Great-granddaughter - Lilly Johnson; Sisters - Anne Harding of West Liberty, Illinois and Jo (Danny) Walden of Hidalgo, Illinois. Many nieces and nephews also survive.

Tom was preceded in death by his parents and brother-in-law John Harding.