OBITUARY: Thomas Richard McGuire Sr.

Thomas Richard McGuire Sr., age 82, son of Robert McGuire and May Elizabeth (Perryman) McGuire, was born on April 1, 1943, in Raymondville, Missouri, and passed away on Aug. 31, 2025, in his home.

Tom is preceded in death by his parents, his wife, Katy McGuire; his son, Thomas Richard McGuire Jr.; six siblings, Helen, Jewel, Bob, Bill, Virginia and Huck; and Huck’s wife, Jeanie, his bonus sister.

He is survived by his wife, Sally Pittman of Raymondville; his brother, Charles McGuire; his daughter, Patricia Mitchell, of Licking, and her husband, Jack Mitchell; his bonus daughter, Karen Pittman of Raymondville; and his bonus son, Steve McGuire of Licking. He is also survived by two grandchildren, Tiffany Breeden of Licking and Dustin Mitchell of Houston; and four great-grandchildren, Emalee, Ava, Bryxtyn and Sophie.

Tom grew up in the Split Limb area of Raymondville, and attended Split Limb School, graduating from the 8th grade in 1957. He then continued his education at Licking High School, before deciding to enter the United States Air Force at the age of 17, serving for a short time. He was honorably discharged in 1960.

He married the love of his life, Katy DeWitt, on July 14, 1960. To this union, two children were born: Patricia Kay and Thomas Richard Jr. After Katy’s passing, Tom spent 26 years with his best friend, Billie Miller, until her death. He later met his current wife, Sally Pittman, whom he married on June 29, 2023, creating many happy memories until his passing.

Tom held many occupations during his long life, including working in various sawmills, serving as a dispatcher for the Texas County Sheriff’s Department, working for the City of Houston and finally retiring after 35 years as a school bus driver for the Raymondville R-VII School District.

Tom was the happiest outdoors. He loved fishing the local streams and ponds, and hunting for turkey and deer. He also enjoyed spending long nights coon hunting with buddies, often coming home with trophies and stories to tell. He had a green thumb and took pride in putting out a garden every spring. Even into his 80s, he stayed strong and active, cutting wood and keeping himself busy.

Faith and family were at the center of Tom’s life. He rarely missed a Sunday at church and cherished every moment spent with his loved ones. Known for his quick wit and endless stories, he could light up a room with laughter and conversation. Tom never met a stranger, and whether you were family, friend or someone he had just met, he had a way of making you feel welcome.

Tom was an amazing husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather and friend. He was always looking forward to spending time with family and lending a helping hand. He was a faithful man, devoting his life to Christ. He left behind a lot of wisdom, stories and memories. We were blessed to be a part of his long life, and his memory will be a treasure to us always.

A visitation for Tom will take place from 11 a.m. to noon Friday, Sept. 5, 2025, with a funeral following at Northside Baptist Church. Arrangements are under the care and direction of Evans Funeral Home in Houston. Online condolences may be left at www.evansfh.com.