Thomas Lee Head, a dedicated leader in the Midwestern railroad industry and a long-time community figure, passed away on August 8, 2026, at the age of 91 in Chillicothe, Ohio. According to an obituary published in the Chillicothe Gazette, Head spent his entire professional life in the rail sector, rising from an entry-level position to regional leadership roles.
Born on September 14, 1934, in Wappapello, Missouri, Head graduated from Puxico High School, where he met his high school sweetheart, Geneta A. Reed. The couple was married for nearly 70 years. Head’s career in the railroad industry began modestly as a mailroom messenger boy for the New York Central Railroad, earning $11.00 a day. Demonstrating a strong work ethic, he secured a promotion to Chief Clerk in Baltimore, Maryland, based on a recommendation and a photograph, during an era before the Interstate 70 highway system was built.
Head was subsequently promoted to Sales Representative and began attending night classes at the University of Baltimore. After a brief assignment in New York City, he was transferred to Cleveland, Ohio, where he completed his degree at Cleveland State University. This academic achievement paved the way for his promotion to Sales Manager in Chicago. He spent the remainder of his long career in Indianapolis and Chicago, remaining loyal to the same railroad company through its various corporate mergers and name changes over the decades.
Following his formal retirement, Head remained active in the transport sector, working as a freight broker and representing the Better Business Bureau. He served as the Executive Director of the Midwest Association of Rail Shippers for 17 years and spent six years as the President of the Rail Traffic Club of Indianapolis. He was also an active member of the Toastmasters Club and a certified instructor for Dale Carnegie professional development courses.
A committed member of his church, Head served as an adult Sunday school teacher, Deacon, and Elder, and pursued advanced theological studies at Bethel College. He is survived by his daughter, Sheryl Reynolds, several grandchildren, a sister, and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife Geneta, his daughter Deborah Campbell, and grandson Taylor Reynolds.
Funeral services are scheduled for Saturday, August 15, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. at the Haller Funeral Home in Chillicothe, Ohio, with Pastor Stan Kirtland officiating. Burial will take place in Twin Township Cemetery. The family has requested that memorial contributions be directed to the First Capital Christian Church.