Thomas Ernesto Vargas

Thomas Ernesto Vargas November 12, 1991 – October 6, 2025, Thomas Ernesto Vargas, known to most as Thomas and to family as Ernie, passed away on October 6, 2025, in a motorcycle accident. We were blessed that he touched the lives of so many. From the moment he was born on November 12, 1991, to his parents, Carolyn R. Sanchez and Jesus “Tom” Vargas, Ernie made his presence known—bold, captivating, and deeply caring.  

Thomas proudly served in the United States Army from August 12, 2014, to January 7, 2022, as a Wheeled Vehicle Mechanic, earning the National Defense Service Medal and the Army Service Ribbon. In civilian life, he brought the same dedication and kindness to his work in automotive service and as a live-in caregiver, always offering protection, generosity, and compassion to those around him.

 He is survived by his mother, Carolyn Rita Sanchez; his father, Jesus “Tom” Romero Vargas; stepfather Gary E. Janosko; stepmother Vicky Woods Vargas; his siblings on the Vargas side, Gina, Bernadette, Elaine, Joey, and Ricky; and stepsiblings Bryce, Baily, and Brandon Janosko. He was more than just a cousin to Melissa, her siblings Garret and Ross and Angel along with his other cousins Elizabeth, Daniel, Mary and Donann.  Loved by many aunts and Uncles, Marlene, Dan, David and Drake from his mom's side to Sandra, Randy, Bobby and Stevie from the Vargas side. He is also lovingly remembered by his girlfriend, Jisenia, and her son Audi, whom he cared for deeply, as well as many great aunts and uncles, cousins, extended family members and friends who cherished him. He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Raymond and Stella Sanchez, and Jesus “Chuy” and Clara Vargas, lovingly known to him as Nana and Tata, and Tio Danny Vargas. Family, to Thomas, extended far beyond blood. He shared a special lifelong bond with Edmond and Veronica Verales, who were father- and mother-figures in his life, and with his close friends Lucas “Dukie” Verales, Brandon Verales, Jay Gastelum, and many others whose lives were brighter because of his friendship.

 He loved boldly, lived fully, and found joy in hunting trips, fishing adventures, laughing with friends, and time spent with those he loved. Though his time with us was far too short, his spirit remains vibrant and alive in the countless lives he touched. Ernie’s legacy is one of love, service, and connection. He will be deeply mourned, and his memories will be treasured. May we continue to live with the generous heart, courage, and love he showed us every day. Visitation and Rosary: October 19, 2025, 3:00 PM – 6:00 PM Funeral Mass: October 20, 2025, 11:00 AM – 11:45 AM Committal Service: October 20, 2025, 12:30 PM – 12:45 PM Gathering/Luncheon: Elks Lodge No. 385, 1800 N. Oracle Road, Tucson, AZ 85705, 2:00 PM – 6:00 PM