Thomas McNamara Obituary

McNamara, Thomas C. In loving memory of Thomas C. McNamara, age 70, of Murphysboro, Illinois, died on August 18, 2017 in his home. A beloved husband to Judith Bush, stepfather to Rachel (Matt) Broom and grandfather of Mallory and Zach Broom. A loving son of the late Thomas C. and Virginia (Hoare) McNamara, a dear brother to Judith (Edward) Bures, Maura (Jack) Nacker, Gerald (Robin) McNamara and the late Roberta (Leo) Fogarty. An author, lecturer, instructor, investigator, expert witness and undercover agent, Tom worked beside the Chief of Police of Carbondale as Executive Staff and became an Inspector for the investigation of organized criminal activities throughout the state of Illinois. During his tenure with the Illinois State Police, Tom worked as a covert drug/gang officer, an Intelligence officer, and Director of the Southern Illinois Enforcement Group (SIEG). After his retirement from ISP, Tom continued to work with SIEG and many local police departments, donating many hours as an Instructor and working on grants and special projects. He was well known among police agencies in southern Illinois and considered by most to be an expert in the field of narcotics enforcement. A memorial will be held October 1, 2017 at the John A. Logan College Conference and Education Center in Carterville, IL from 1:00p.m. to 5:00p.m., parking in main lot A. Open visitation is 1:00-2:00p.m., 2:00p.m. is Law Enforcement Walk Through with a service by Father Jack Frerker. Speakers include family members, IL Attorney General Lisa Madigan, Congressman Mike Bost, Susan Nichols and Joseph Dakin. Reception following the memorial at Kokopelli, Marion, IL. Donations may be sent to the Williamson County Sheriff's Department-Canine Unit, 404 N Van Buren St., Marion, IL 62959. Checks must include in the subject line, Mac's K9 Fund or to Centerstone, a rehabilitation center in Marion, IL.