Thomas Ray DiDay

Thomas Ray DiDay, 77, passed away on February 19, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of love, laughter, and unwavering devotion to family and community.

Born on July 14, 1948, in Greenville, Pennsylvania, Tom graduated from Joseph Badger High School as a proud member of the Class of 1966. A natural leader, he served as senior class president and played both basketball and baseball in primary and high school.

Tom honorably served his country in the United States Air Force from 1967 to 1972. In 1970, he made Tucson, Arizona his home, where he built a life rooted in dedication and service. He went on to devote 36 years of his professional career to the University of Arizona, retiring after decades of commitment to the institution he proudly supported. Though he had the heart of a Wildcat, he often joked that he had the blood of a Buckeye.

Tom found his greatest joy in his family. He cherished every moment with his grandchildren and never missed a chance to visit, FaceTime, or cheer them on at every baseball game. He loved watching sports, keeping up with live safari cameras from around the world, and texting his friends' daily jokes that brightened countless mornings. Tom also loved rock and roll, especially the music of The Beatles, The Rolling Stones, and Grateful Dead, whose songs formed the soundtrack to so many of his memories. A true word enthusiast, he proudly reached level 7,368 on Wordscapes and never missed a chance to appreciate a well-turned phrase.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 45 years, Donna; his father, Harold "Pete" DiDay; and his mother, Edna Burford DiDay.

Tom is survived by his brother, Gary (Barb); his children, Jeff (Candis) and Emily (Ryan); and his cherished grandchildren, River, Finley, and Preston. He is also survived by his daughter Melissa (Ricardo); his grandchildren Tyler, Jordan, and Jalen; and his great-grandchild Sawyer, all of whom brought him immense pride and joy.

Tom touched the life of everyone he met. His kindness, humor, loyalty, and steady presence will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him. In his honor, an engraved legacy tile bearing his name will be placed on the north side of McKale Basketball Stadium, where it can be visited and appreciated for many years to come.

Services for Tom will be held on Wednesday, March 11, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Desert Rose Heather Cremation & Burial, 1040 N. Columbus Blvd., Tucson, AZ 85711 (southeast corner of Speedway & Columbus).