Thomas Vincent Annear, Jr., a man of deep curiosity and warmth, passed away on Friday evening, December 19, 2025, at Cibolo Creek Nursing Home in Boerne, Texas, following a gradual decline in health. He was born on September 13, 1946, in Evergreen Park, Illinois, to Thomas and Shirley Annear. Although he had fond memories of Calumet City where he spent his early years, he later moved to Libertyville, Illinois, which he considered his true home.

Tom graduated from Libertyville High School in 1964 and briefly attended Northern Michigan University, later achieving an associate’s degree at the College of Lake County in Northeastern Illinois. He dedicated a part of his life to serving his country in the United States Navy, with a station in Reykjavik, Iceland, where he forged experiences that would last a lifetime.

In 1975, Tom married Barbara Peterson from Mundelein, Illinois, and welcomed their daughter, Jamie, in 1978. He later entered into marriage with Judy Mathewson Brown for a period of time. Throughout his life, Tom was actively involved in the Masonic Temple as a Freemason and also participated in Eastern Star activities, initially with the Libertyville Masonic Lodge 492 and later with Bandera Masonic Lodge 1123. His dedication to these organizations reflected his commitment to community and brotherhood. A Shriner, he made significant contributions to these social causes.

A lifelong fan of Chicago sports, Tom’s heart particularly belonged to the Chicago Bears, although he favored the Chicago White Sox over the Cubs. In 2000, he retired to the picturesque Texas Hill Country in Bandera, Texas, embracing this serene environment during his later years.

Thomas is preceded in death by his father, Thomas Annear, Sr., mother, Shirley Annear, and his beloved niece and goddaughter, Brandie Wentworth. He is survived by his loving daughter, Jamie Annear-Feyrer; his grandchildren, Joss Feyrer and Zoe Feyrer; and his sister, Suzanne Hester.

Tom possessed a unique blend of curiosity about both the natural and supernatural worlds. His bookshelves were a testament to his eclectic tastes, filled with works like Carl Sagan’s "Contact" and "The Way of the Peaceful Warrior." He introduced his daughter to the captivating realm of Celtic music and shared many weekends bonding over group camping trips that instilled in her a love for nature's tranquility. He had a special way of expressing his affection, often bestowing loving nicknames linked to food, such as Pumpkin, Pork Chop, and Tuna Fish.

As we remember Thomas Vincent Annear, Jr., we honor a spirit that embraced life with wonder and affection. His legacy will endure through the memories cherished by his loved ones. Rest in peace, Dad, and breathe easy now. Your name will forever be spoken with love and remembrance.

“Having lived long in time

he lives now in timelessness

without sorrow

Made perfect by

Our never finished love

Timelessness made perfect

By our compassion and forgiveness

And by his happiness in receiving

This gift that we give

He lives in timelessness

Without sorrow

Made perfect by our never finished love.”