THOMAS J. STITES, grain and coal dealer, Bushton, Morgan Township, Coles County, Ill., was born in Hamilton County, Ohio, Dec. 19, 1845, the son of William and Edith Stites, natives of Ohio, and relatives of Major Benjamin, one of the pioneer settlers of that State.  The family came to Coles County in 1872, purchasing a place ten miles north of Charleston.  Both parents are now deceased.  Mr. Stites received his education in the public schools, and spent his time in farming until 1883, when he engaged in the grain and general mercantile business at Bushton.  Later he sold out his interest in the store, and has since devoted his attention to dealing in coal and grain.
     On Aug. 23, 1870, Mr. Stites was married to Edith, daughter of Constantine and Hannah Stites, natives of Ohio, both of whom are deceased.  Of this union two daughters and son were born.  Maude, the only one living, is a resident of Miamisburg, Ohio.  Mrs. Stites died in January, 1885.  On Dec. 18, 1887,  Mr. Stites was married to Eliza L., daughter of Constantine and Hannah Stites, natives of Ohio, both of whom are deceased.  Of this union two daughters and one son were born.  Maude, the only one living, is a resident of Miamisburg, Ohio.  Mrs. Stites died in January, 1885.  On Dec. 18, 1887 Mr. Stites was united to Eliza J., daughter of William and Miriam Sublette, natives of Maryland and Illinois, respectively.  Mr. and Mrs. States is a Republican in his political affiliations, has been School director two terms and has served as Postmaster of Bushton for four years.  He is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church, while his wife belongs to the Christian Church.
Source: Historical Encyclopedia of Illinois and History of  Coles County, Chicago:  Munsell Publishing Company, Publishers, 1906 - Page  868