Tom Oliphant

(From Clark Funeral Home)

Thomas (Tom) Dean Oliphant, of Granby, Missouri, passed away on March 24, 2026, at Freeman West Hospital in Joplin, Missouri, at the age of 66.

Thomas was born on May 6, 1959, in Danville, Illinois, to Thomas Joe Oliphant and Lois Dianne (Gillespie) Fuller. He graduated from Westville High School in Westville, IL, and attended Indiana State University. Tom left Indiana State to marry the love of his life, Robin.

Tom worked briefly for the railroad, until an accident left him disabled. Tom recovered over time, and he eventually continued serving his community as a corrections officer for the Newton County Jail until his retirement.

Tom was quiet and reserved by nature, yet deeply humble and compassionate. He was often approached by individuals whose lives he had influenced during their time at the jail. Many would share how his guidance and encouragement helped lead them onto a better path. These encounters were small ways to show what a difference Tom made in the lives of others.

Throughout his life, Tom worked various jobs. One of his greatest passions was coaching. From 1985 to 2005, he devoted many hours to coaching at all levels, from T-ball through high school sports.

Tom spent time researching his family history through genealogy learning about the Scottish heritage that ran in his family. He enjoyed fishing, even though he would jokingly admit he wasn’t very good at it. He also enjoyed following the Chicago Bears, St. Louis Cardinals, and Boston Celtics.

More than anything, Tom loved his family. He was a natural protector who took great pride in his children and grandchildren. 

He is survived by his beloved wife of 48 years, Robin (Wilson) Oliphant; his children, Thomas Dean (Heather Holter) Oliphant Jr. of Green Bay, Wisconsin, Marsha (Doug) Curtis of Joplin, Missouri, and Jonathan (Amanda) Oliphant of Neosho, Missouri; his mother, Lois Diane Fuller; and his six grandchildren, Brendan, Toby, Sara, Tessa, Alyvia, and Benjamin.

He is also survived by his siblings, Mira Stark, Debra (Mike) Dilbeck, Nila (Lindburg) Dilbert, Glenda (Jeff) Cooper, Floyd (Blanca) Oliphant, Herchell (Tonya) Oliphant, Rickey (Laura) Williams, Eric Williams, Sandy Williams, and Linda Relliford, along with numerous nieces, nephews, and extended family members.

He was preceded in death by his father, Thomas Joe Oliphant; his brother Eli (Sue) Williams; his brother-in-law, Greg Stark.