Thomas Henry Herold

Thomas "Tom" Henry Herold, 70, passed away on February 28, 2026, in Crescent City, Florida. Though he resided in Florida later in life, his heart and history were deeply rooted in Emmett, Idaho.

Born on October 10, 1955, in Moses Lake, Washington, Tom was one of eight children born to Idaho natives John and Alice Herold. He spent his first 16 years working on the family dairy in Washington alongside his seven siblings. When the family returned to Idaho, Tom attended Emmett High School, where he was a founding member of the wrestling team, graduating in 1974.

In 1975, Tom married his lifelong partner, Penny McLinn. Throughout their 51 years of marriage, they built a legacy of love and hard work, beginning at Boise State University. Tom's character was defined by a relentless work ethic; he funded his senior year by milking over 200 cows a night while maintaining a staggering 20+ credit course load. He graduated in 1978 with a Bachelor of Science in Education, embarking on a teaching career that would span 27 years.

In 1981, Tom and Penny established their own farm on the Emmett bench near the county line. For 40 years, they raised cattle, pigs, and alfalfa, providing a rich life for their children along the Payette River. It was here that Tom and Penny taught their children the value of hard work and the joy of the outdoors.

Beyond his professional and agricultural life, Tom was defined by a steady, quiet patience and was known for his baking powder biscuits and chocolate chip cookies. Whether he was walking or riding bikes with Penny, or hunting, fishing, and adventuring with his children and grandchildren, Tom was happiest when surrounded by those he loved.

Tom is survived by his beloved wife, Penny; his sons, Peter (Elizabeth) and Josh (Devin); his daughter, Marissa; five cherished grandchildren: Sydney, Adelaide, Wyatt, Kenzi, and Wesley; and his siblings, Helen, Susan, Judith, Marjie, Dan, Dorothy, and Janice.

The family wishes to extend their sincere gratitude to the staff at the Jacksonville Mayo Clinic and Palatka Community Hospice for their compassionate care. A private celebration of life will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to a charity of your choice that reminds you of Tom's spirit of hard work, love of animals, and the outdoors.