Thomas Arthur McAvoy III

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Thomas Arthur McAvoy III, who departed this life peacefully at home, surrounded by his cherished family on July 27, 2026. Born on June 26, 1948, in Chicago, Illinois, Tom lived a full and vibrant life, marked by love, service, and adventure. Tom was the beloved son of Thomas Arthur McAvoy II and Anna Gertrude Leach McAvoy. He was preceded in death by his sister, Carol Hutchinson, and leaves behind his devoted wife of 20 years, Sarah McPherson McAvoy. He is also survived by his loving children, Kelly Arleen McAvoy and her spouse Jobe Makar, and Thomas Arthur McAvoy IV and his partner Catt Hogsland. He was a proud and doting grandfather to two grandchildren. His sisters, Barbara Ann Satkamp and Nancy Peacock, along with extended family members Jesica Mary Schwinn, Rebekah Lee Goforth, and Jonathan Scott McPherson, will remember him fondly. Tom's life was a tapestry woven with dedication to both family and country. After graduating from Franklin Central High School in 1966, Tom honorably served in the Army Security Agency from 1968 to 1972, a period during which he was granted a Top Secret Security Clearance. His service took him to Ft. Devens, Massachusetts; Vietnam; and Southern Japan, leaving a lasting impact on all who served alongside him. A man of remarkable intellect, Tom pursued higher education with vigor, earning a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering from Purdue University in 1981 and a Master’s Certificate in Program Management from George Washington University in 1991. His career with AT&T spanned over three decades, where he started at the Western Electric plant in 1966 and retired as an engineering design manager in 2001. Tom's passion for the outdoors was infectious. Whether hiking, biking, camping, scuba diving, or kayaking, he embraced nature with open arms. At age 55, he earned a Black Belt in Karate, a testament to his enduring spirit and perseverance. He was an active assistant scout master for 15 years in Burlington, North Carolina, embodying the values of leadership and mentorship. A deeply spiritual man, Tom was a member of the Orchard Church in Waynesville, North Carolina. He was also a life member of the Disabled American Veterans (DAV) and the National Rifle Association (NRA). In his later years, Tom continued to share his life with his beloved Sarah, enjoying the tranquility of the North Carolina mountains and remaining active in various outdoor pursuits. Their shared joy in these activities was a beautiful chapter in Tom's life story. In honor of Tom’s life and service, the family suggests that memorial contributions be made to the Wounded Warrior Project, an organization that was close to his heart. Tom will be remembered for his kindness, loyalty, and the profound love he held for his family and friends. His legacy will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.