Thomas Ray South

Thomas Ray South, aged 63, passed away on Monday, October 26, 2026, at Indiana University Hospital in Indianapolis, surrounded by his family. A deeply compassionate, patient, stubborn, and generous man who "never knew a stranger," Tom was widely known for his humorous, silly personality and his unwavering dedication to serving others. He fully embodied his life motto: "Make an impact in every life I encounter."

Tom spent his life in ministry, dedicating 16 years as a Youth Pastor and serving at First Church of God in Sidney, Ohio. He later served as the Senior Pastor for 10 years at Marion First Church of God. Deeply rooted in the community, he extended his spiritual care as the Grant County Sheriff Chaplain, a Hospital Chaplain for Ascension Hospitals, and a Chaplain for Business through Marketplace Ministry. He was a faithful attendee of College Wesleyan Church.

Born in Springfield, Illinois, on June 29, 1963, Tom graduated from Springfield Southeast High School. He pursued higher education at Anderson College, earning a Bachelor of Arts in Business, and later completed his Master of Divinity at Anderson University.

Outside of his ministry work, Tom loved spending time with his family. It was his favorite place to be. He was an avid sports fan who closely followed University of Illinois sports and his beloved St. Louis Cardinals. He enjoyed playing golf, all things Disney, family game nights, watching movies, supporting local theater, and being Baba to his grandchildren. He was also famously fond of popcorn, mashed potatoes, Diet Mountain Dew, and being sorted into the Gryffindor house.

Tom is survived by his loving wife of 39 years, Dana (Smith) South, whom he married on July 11, 1987; his children, Lyndsay Martinez, Kaleigh South, Jordan South (Emily Ferrell), McKenzi South, and Natalee (Dathan) Tippey; his grandchildren, Charlotte Rae Martinez, Lincoln Austin Martinez, Myles Kaden-Thomas Harper, and Maevis Kay-Lynn Tippey; his siblings, Gloria (Rich) Snodgrass of Rochester, IL, Bill (Ann) South of Springfield, IL, John (Deanna) South of Normal, IL, and Jim (Kelly) South of Ravenna, OH, and his many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Robert South and Dorothy (Williams) South, and his brother, Chuck South.

Arrangements for Tom were entrusted to the Mississinewa Chapel of Armes-Hunt Life Celebration Funeral Home and Cremation Services, 200 North 7th Street, Gas City, Indiana 46933. All services will be held at College Wesleyan Church, 200 E. 38th Street, Marion, Indiana 46953. On Friday, October 30, 2026, there will be a visitation for family and friends from 4:00 P.M. to 8:00 P.M., then on Saturday, October 31, 2026, there will be a visitation from 10:00 A.M. to 11:00 A.M., with the funeral service beginning at 11:00 A.M.

Memorial contributions may be made in honor of Tom to Grant County Cancer Services, 305 S. Norton Street, Marion, Indiana 46952, or to CSA Civic Theatre, 305 S. Adams Street, Marion, Indiana 46952.