Thomas Roswell Carmody, a beloved member of the Lawrence, KS community, passed away on August 2, 2024, at the age of 91. Born in Cleveland, OH, on May 18, 1933, to Thomas and Mary Carmody, Tom leaves behind a legacy of love, family, and dedication.
Tom is survived by his wife of 67 years, Grace, and their three children, Tom, John, and Mike, along with a host of grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Known affectionately as ‚Papa‘ by his family, Tom lived a full life filled with pride in his family, business endeavors, and hobbies. He took great joy in simple pleasures like yard work, planting caladiums, and relaxing in his favorite hammock.
A devoted father, Tom supported his sons in their extracurricular activities, particularly their sports endeavors. He was a familiar face at their games, offering unwavering support without being overbearing. Family holidays were a special time for Tom, who cherished tradition and ensured each celebration reflected his Catholic faith. Annual summer vacations were a highlight, with road trips to Cleveland to visit relatives and create lasting memories.
Tom’s education at St. Ignatius High School and John Carroll University instilled in him a strong sense of pride in his Irish heritage. He enjoyed Irish music, cuisine, and St. Patrick’s Day celebrations. An avid reader, Tom devoured newspapers, fiction, and non-fiction books regularly.
In his professional life, Tom enjoyed a successful career spanning nearly four decades. He led Curtiss 1000 in Lawrence before becoming President and CEO of American Business Products in Atlanta, Georgia. Upon retirement, Tom and Grace returned to Lawrence, where he remained active in the community through various organizations.
Tom’s love for travel led him and Grace on countless cruises around the world. A proud Army veteran, Tom served in the ‚Big Red One‘ at Ft. Riley, reaching the rank of 1st Lieutenant. He was a familiar face at local gatherings, including the Lawrence Rotary Club, American Legion, and Big Blue.
One of Tom’s passions was his collection of vintage toy soldiers, meticulously curated from estate sales. A Mass of Catholic burial will be held in his honor, with donations to Catholic Charities suggested in lieu of flowers. Tom’s later years were enriched by the care of his healthcare providers, whom he deeply appreciated.
In the hearts of those who knew him, Tom Carmody will be deeply missed. His legacy of love, dedication, and joy will continue to inspire all who were fortunate enough to have known him. Rest in peace, Tom.