Roll Call Tribute

Thomas Joel "Tom" McWhirter 

June 9, 1947 - April 2, 2024 

With profound sadness, we announce the passing of Thomas Joel McWhirter on April 2, 2024, in the loving embrace of his family. Born on June 9, 1947, in Wolfe City, TX, Tom was the cherished son of Nonnie and Wayne McWhirter. He found lifelong love with his high school sweetheart, Iris Carol, whom he married on May 31, 1969.

Tom’s life was a testament to love, dedication, and hard work. He was a pillar of strength as a devoted husband, father, and grandfather, bringing joy to every gathering as the life of the party. His unwavering commitment to his family was matched only by his tireless work ethic.

Among his passions, Tom discovered a newfound love for pickleball, sharing the court with Carol three times a week. He took great pride in supporting his grandchildren in their many endeavors, and was always their biggest, and loudest fan!

Tom earned his bachelor’s degree in the engineering field from Texas A&M University and was a loyal member of the Corp of Cadets. Tom always embodied the spirit of the “Fightin’ Texas Aggie” throughout his life. After earning his master’s degree in marketing at The University of North Texas, Tom and Carol embarked on a journey together, settling in Carrollton, where they built a thriving label printing business for over thirty-five years before retiring in 2008.

Active in his community, Tom was a respected member of The Rotary Club of Carrollton, where he held various leadership roles, including President and Vice President. Alongside Carol, he cultivated a passion for collecting, particularly American Brilliant Cut Glass, showcasing their prized collection in their Heath home. Their shared interests extended to their involvement in the American Cut Glass Association, where Tom served as Southern Director and played a pivotal role in hosting two national conventions in Rockwall. Tom also received the ACGA President’s Award for Lifetime Service.

In his leisure time, Tom found joy in breeding Lady Gouldian Finches and nurturing his collection of Japanese Koi, which he and Carol acquired during their global travels. Their adventures allowed them to experience the wonders of the world together, fostering memories that Carol will always cherish.

Tom and Carol celebrated fifty-four years of marriage, blessed with the love of their daughters, Chelsea Doyen (Jerome) of Crowley, and Heather Marshall (John) of Rockwall, along with grandchildren Caden, Mason, Zoe, and Remy. Tom is preceded in death by his infant brother, John Wayne, and his parents, Wayne and Nonnie McWhirter.

A visitation, service, and graveside ceremony will be held on Saturday, April 6th, 2024, at Mount Carmel Cemetery in Wolfe City, Texas. Family and friends are invited to join in honoring Tom’s life, with visitation beginning at 1 pm, followed by the service at 2 pm, both at the cemetery chapel, and a brief graveside ceremony thereafter. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to the American Diabetes Association.