Thomas Cary Cahill

In Loving Memory of Thomas Cary Cahill

 

April 13, 1936 – July 1, 2025

 

A Life of Faith, Family, and Unwavering Character

 

Thomas Cary Cahill, beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully at the age of 89 in Boise, Idaho on July 1, 2025. Known affectionately as Tom or “Tommy” in his early years, his life’s journey began on April 13, 1936, in Brockton, Massachusetts, where he was born to Verna M. and Thomas F. Cahill.

 

Roots in Resilience

 

Growing up in Brockton during the war years, Tom was shaped by the challenges and camaraderie of his community. The spirit of those times instilled in him a formidable work ethic and a respect for others that would become hallmarks of his character. Remembered among the “tough bunch” of Brockton boys, Tom’s early years laid the foundation for a life marked by integrity, compassion, and a quiet strength.

 

Guided by Faith

 

Tom’s devotion to the Catholic Church was unwavering from a young age. He first served as an altar boy in sixth grade, sang in the church choir, and cultivated a steadfast love for the Lord that would remain with him throughout his lifetime. His actions spoke volumes, leading by example and providing his family with a strong spiritual foundation.

 

A Life of Service

 

After spending a year at Stonehill College in Easton, MA, Tom sought new horizons and enlisted in the United States Navy in 1955. Over the next four years, he served at Fleet Weather Central in Kodiak, Alaska, trained further in weather school, and was stationed aboard the USS Bennington, traveling through the Pacific. His adventures later took him to Kwajalein in the Marshall Islands, each posting adding stories and wisdom to his life. Tom was honorably discharged in March 1959.

 

New Beginnings and Lasting Love

 

In 1960, with a sense of adventure and purpose, Tom drove his 1951 Ford westward and began a new chapter. He earned his Bachelor’s degree at Utah State University in Logan and went on to obtain his Master’s degree from the University of Utah in Salt Lake City. It was there that fate intervened, and he met the love of his life, Kathleen.   Their meeting was a blessing that would shape the course of both their lives.

Tom and Kathy were married on August 24, 1963, in Buhl, Idaho, commencing a partnership of nearly 62 years. Their family soon grew, having their first daughter Mary in Buhl, they next settled in Ukiah, California, where their three sons (Jim, Tom, and Mike) were born. Seven years later, the family relocated to Lewiston, Idaho, welcoming the final two daughters (Colleen and Christine). For 51 years, Tom and Kathy called Lewiston home, remaining deeply involved in their Catholic community.

 

Dedicated Mentor and Counselor

 

Tom dedicated over 30 years of his professional life to guiding and uplifting others as a Career Counselor at Lewis-Clark State College and later as Vocational Education Director for the Lewiston School District. Tom also helped establish Opportunties Unlimited in Lewiston with a focus on helping people with disabilities have an opportunity at employment. His wisdom, patience, and heartfelt commitment made him a pillar of support for countless students and colleagues. Even after retiring, Tom’s legacy of mentorship continued to resonate throughout the community.

 

A Life Well-Lived

 

Alongside his devotion to faith and family, Tom found joy in nature and treasured time outdoors. An avid fisherman, he delighted in sharing the bounty of his catch with loved ones. He also enjoyed making wine, gardening, canoeing, hunting, camping, reading, and the simple pleasures of mushroom and huckleberry foraging. Each hobby was more than a pastime—it was an opportunity to connect, teach, and create cherished memories.

 

Legacy and Love

 

Tom’s memory will be forever cherished by his beloved wife, Kathleen; his six children: Mary, Jim (wife: Stacey), Tom (wife: Sara), Mike (wife: Georgette), Colleen, and Christine (husband: Marcus) Pagulayan; and by his nine adoring grandchildren: Courtney (husband: Nick), Mike (wife: Bayley), Sam, Charlie, John, Kendra, Brooklyn, Scarlett, and Celia. He is also remembered fondly as a brother, uncle, and friend.

 

He was preceded in death by his parents, Verna and Thomas, and his two older sisters, Claire Cribben (husband: Jack) and Maryann White (husband: Bob).

 

Celebrating a Remarkable Life

 

A Celebration of Life will be held at St. Mark’s Catholic Church in Boise, Idaho, on Friday, August 22, 2025. A rosary will be prayed at 10:00 AM, followed by mass at 11:00 AM, with a luncheon immediately following. All who knew and loved Tom are warmly invited to join in honor of a life so richly lived. Though Tom has departed this world, his legacy of kindness, faith, and generosity will live on in the hearts of those he touched. May he rest in peace, surrounded by the love he so freely gave.