Thomas Ross Mccoy

Thomas 'Tom' Ross McCoy passed away peacefully on June 21, 2025, at the age of 95. Tom was Born on May 31, 1930, in Ottawa, Illinois and was the first of five children born to Ross and Ruby McCoy.

Tom served his country with honor as a U.S. Marine from 1951 to 1954 in the Korean War, including a year stationed in Korea as an artilleryman. After his military service he returned home and worked as a painter in the Peru, Illinois area. In 1951 he married the love of his life Bonnie with whom he shared a deep and lasting bond.

In 1964 seeking new opportunities, Tom moved his family to Barstow, California where he began work at Fort Irwin in the Public Works Department.

A year later they settled in Ridgecrest, California where Tom continued his painting career at the Naval Weapons Center. He remained there for 25 years, retiring in 1984. Even after retirement, Tom stayed active working briefly as a security guard for the Coso Geothermal facility.

Tom's beloved wife Bonnie passed away in 2000. In 200l he found companionship with Nola Dewhurst. Together they enjoyed over 15 years of adventures including many camping and fishing trips. Tom was an avid fisherman and found peace and joy in the creeks near Lone Pine and Bishop.

He had a love of golf which he enjoyed into his eighties. Tom's volunteerism spans most of his time in Ridgecrest to include the inception and construction of the Kerr McGee Sports Center, previously 'Stauffer Field'. He among many others spent hours in this endeavor.

Along with his wife Bonnie, he was very involved with the Eagles Lodge and VFW, where they also found many enduring friendships. If his help was requested by any organization or friend, it was never denied.

Tom cherished family and tradition, often returning to Illinois to reconnect with loved ones. Many of those trips, especially with Bonnie became extended journeys traveling across the country and exploring landmarks from Niagara Falls to the Florida coast.

Tom is survived by his children: Faith Dabbs, Tom G. McCoy, Shawn Everhart (Chuck) and Jack McCoy (Melanie). 10 Grandchildren; 16 great grandchildren and 7 great-great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife Bonnie and companion Nola, his siblings Jean Biagoni, Shirley Abel, Barbara Both and Allen "Bud" McCoy, his son-in-law Cary Dabbs and Grandson Cary Michael Dabbs.

Tom lived a full and blessed life grounded in love for his family and friends. He was deeply loved by many in Ridgecrest and beyond.

He will be dearly missed.