Thomas Wortham
Thomas Eugene Wortham IV was born at 6:11 AM on Super Bowl Sunday, January 20, 1980 to parents Thomas Eugene Wortham III and Carolyn Wortham. His father and the doctor had hoped he would wait until the next day, but Thomas was impatient.
Thomas and his sister Sandra attended Beverly Hills Preschool and Morgan Park Academy for Elementary School. While in Elementary School, he developed a love for science and for sports, including baseball and soccer. Thomas played in school and on many teams in the community, including the Roseland Little League where his father coached and the South Side Little League. Thomas also played AYSO Soccer with the Beverly Soccer League and the Blue Island Soccer League.
Thomas attended Brother Rice High School, from 1998 to 2001. During this time, he studied a college preparatory curriculum and participated on the Football and Track teams. Upon graduation from high school, Thomas continued his education at the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts in Communications.
Thomas’ love for his country and his desire to serve were demonstrated when he joined the Wisconsin Army National Guard while in school. He served in the 1-125th Infantry Battalion and the 105th CAV. Thomas rose to the rank of 1st Lieutenant, receiving many commendations, including the Bronze Star. Thomas remained in the National Guard, fulfilling a lifelong dream of serving in the military. Thomas’ service to his community continued when he became a member of the Evergreen Park and the Chicago Police Departments.
His zest for life led him to participate in many sports, including sky diving, scuba diving, mountain climbing and riding his motorcycle.
Tragically, Thomas’ life ended suddenly on May 20, 2010, when he was murdered in front of his parents’ home by four individuals who were trying to steal his motorcycle. Thomas, also known as “Tom” and “Tommy,” will always be remembered for his kind heart and giving spirit. He lived his life according to a song made famous by Frank Sinatra. At the end of every day, he could truly say, “I did it MY WAY!”