James Thomas "Tommy" Whitlock

James Thomas “Tommy” Whitlock, beloved husband, father, grandfather, uncle, and friend, passed away on March 24, 2025, at the age of 70. Tommy spent his life pouring into the people he loved, leaving a legacy of steady joy, love, and laughter and bringing light to every room he entered. Tommy built his life and career in the produce industry in McAllen, Texas where he cultivated lifelong friendships. He was a proud Fighting Bear as an alumnus of PSJA. The outpouring of memories and stories shared since his passing has revealed just how many lives he inspired. He had a gift for connection and made everyone he met feel seen and immediately at ease. A devoted family man, Tommy lived every day for his family. He shared a beautiful life with the love of his life, Cheri. Their love was one of deep affection and unwavering support. They recently celebrated 40 wonderful years of marriage with a romantic trip to Paris — just one of many adventures they cherished together. Whether trying new foods, filling their home with meaningful treasures that made their space as unique and heartfelt as their love, or shaping a colorful garden full of life and beauty, Tommy adored Cheri and their beautiful life together. A true reflection of his character was the bond he shared with Cheri’s mother, Dorris, who loved him deeply, not just as a son-in-law, but as her own. Tommy and Cheri’s love and marriage was what many strive for and will be an inspiration for generations to come. As a father, Tommy was the rock his children could always count on. He was a father who showed up and never let them forget how deeply they were loved. Tommy’s love and support was never conditional; it was constant. He was his son’s best friend and his daughter’s closest confidant — a steady presence, a problem-solver, and the ultimate support system. He supported them with wisdom and guidance in big moments but showed up in the little ways too, like making sure their yards were mowed, their cleaning supplies were stocked (after all, we are talking about Tommy), and their lives felt manageable. His love spoke through action, and his steady care was the heartbeat of their lives. In good times and in hard ones, they knew he would be there — no matter what. His devotion as a father was deep, enduring, and extraordinary. He was a playful, present, and deeply cherished grandfather, adored beyond measure by his grandchildren, who lovingly called him “Papa T.” He was their favorite person in the world, their comfort and partner in every adventure. Tommy didn’t just spend time with his grandkids — he poured into them with intention. He planned meaningful trips, showed up to games, taught them life’s little lessons, and made everyday moments feel magical. He was hands-on, full of surprises, and always had something special up his sleeve just for them. While rollercoasters were the line he drew, he never backed down from creating joy and laughter at every turn. In their too-short time with him, they created a lifetime’s worth of unforgettable memories. Tommy was a man of quiet but unwavering faith, who lived out his beliefs through generous, behind-the-scenes support where he was always the one to step up and support those in need. But more than what he did, it was who he was that made him unforgettable — a man of strength, optimism, loyalty, and genuine kindness. He had a quick wit and a perfect sense of timing — he could break tension with a well-placed joke or lighten a heavy heart with just the right words, bringing peace, perspective, and laughter — sometimes all in the same sentence. He made people feel understood. He made them feel safe. He made them feel loved. He is survived by his devoted wife of 40 years, Cheri Whitlock; his daughter, Tanya Whitlock; his son, Ryan Whitlock and his wife, Molly Whitlock, along with their beloved children, Baylee, Wyatt, Weston, and Mackenzie; his sisters, Karen Houts and Kathy DeBerry and their spouses; and many extended family members and dear friends who loved him deeply. Honoring Tommy’s wishes, there will be no formal funeral service. A small, intimate celebration of life will be held at a later date with close family and friends — he wanted his life to be remembered not with ceremony, but with simplicity and love. Tommy’s life was a living example of love in action. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to COTA for Weston, https://cota.org/cotaforweston/, in honor of Tommy’s beloved grandson — his little duckling, his sidekick, and the one who never left his side.

Tributes

James Thomas "Tommy" Whitlock

March 24, 2025