Thomas Frederick Harless

Thomas “Tom” Frederick Harless, 77, of Charlottesville, went to be with the Lord on Wednesday, July 1, 2026. He was born September 22, 1948 in Peoria, Illinois to the late Charles and Julia (Oldfield) Harless.

Tom graduated from Streator High School in Streator, Illinois, in 1966. Shortly after graduation, he moved to Indianapolis, Indiana, where he attended Lincoln Technical Institute, completing an 18-month program to become an automotive mechanic. While attending school, he worked part-time at local garages and service stations to help pay his tuition, demonstrating the strong work ethic that would define his life.

Tom married the love of his life, Nikki Diane Curtis, in 1968. Together they built a life centered on faith, hard work, and devotion to family.

Tom began his career at Bob Baker Chevrolet before joining Indianapolis Public Schools in 1984; working his way up to become Head of Transportation, a position he faithfully served until his retirement in 2012. Alongside his full-time career, Tom also worked at Paxton’s Farms for more than 30 years. Retirement never slowed him down; he later worked as a farm equipment salesman for GEP in Sterling, Colorado.

Tom had a lifelong passion for modified stock car racing. He enjoyed building his own race cars and competing on local race tracks at Mt Lawn, Anderson and Indianapolis Speedrome. He also found great joy in raising grass-fed cattle and farming, which remained one of his greatest passions throughout his life.

Above all else, Tom was a devoted husband, father, and provider who sacrificed much to care for his family. His greatest priority, other than his family, was his faith. After accepting Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior, he lived a life committed to serving others and sharing the love of Christ. He was a founding and longtime board member of Calvary Ministries Outreach, where his faithful leadership and servant’s heart impacted countless lives.

Tom is survived by his children, Patricia Bingham of Greenfield, Melissa Kesterson of Greenfield, Trevor (Tanya) Harless of Wilkinson and Courtney Graham (fiancé: Ron Allen) of Wilkinson; grandchildren, Rebecca Irene (Tim) Money, Cory Wilson, Jr., Elizabeth Bingham, Chase Banis, Grace Rose Graham, Riley Harless, Payton Harless, Sullivan Elayer Graham and Josef Loney; great grandchildren, Ruby Sue Bingham and Beckham Lane Banis; brother, Richard Raymond (Kathy) Harless.

In addition to his wife, Nikki Diane, and parents, he is preceded in death by son-in-law, Tobias Graham and grandson, Davey Allen Bingham.

Services will be at 10:00 AM Wednesday, July 15, 2026, at Hinsey-Brown Funeral Service, Knightstown Chapel with Pastor Tony Darling officiating. Burial will follow in McCray Cemetery. Visitation will be from 4:00-8:00PM Tuesday, July 14th at the funeral home. Memorial Contributions can be made to Charlottesville Volunteer Fire Department, 10450 E US Hwy 40, Charlottesville, IN 46117 and Shirley Volunteer Fire Department, 212 Main St. Shirley, IN 47384. You may express condolences or share memories of Tom at www.hinsey-brown.com.