Thomas LaRoy Scott

1952 - 2025

Thomas LaRoy Scott, 73, passed away peacefully at Hospice House, surrounded by loved ones, on December 9, 2025, in Bellingham, Washington.

Born on July 1, 1952, in Longview, Washington, Tom was the eldest son of Russell Thomas Scott and Beverly Jean Slater Scott. He grew up in Kelso and graduated from Kelso High School with the Class of 1970. He went on to earn his degree from Western Washington University in 1976, laying the foundation for his life and future endeavors.

Tom deeply loved his family. He shared 44 years of marriage with his wife, Phoebe, and was incredibly grateful for the life they built together and the love she gave him. Together, they raised two children: daughter Allison Dissly and son Ryan Scott. His family grew to include son-in-law Russell Dissly and daughter-in-law Delany McCauley. Tom found immense joy in being a grandfather to Jolene Dissly, Slater Scott, Zoey Scott, and Malcolm Dissly. He will truly live on through his children and grandchildren.

Over the years, Tom contributed his professional talents to several organizations, including North Cascades National Park, Bell Rainier Distributors, Pump Service and Supply, and as the 30-year owner of Hilander Pump and Well Service. In every role, he brought passion, integrity, and humor. His strong work ethic and genuine joy on the job earned him lifelong customers and friends throughout Whatcom County.

Tom was also a loving brother to Susan Spain (Wayne), Linda Olin (Doran), and Pamela Doehne (Kent). He held close the memory of his late brother, Bruce A. Scott. He was also a brother-in-law to Phoebe's sisters, Amy Biggs (Dan) and Jessica Alexander (Alex). Tom deeply cherished the relationships he built with the children and grandchildren of his siblings and took great pride in the accomplishments of the younger generations, especially as he saw his parents' legacies continue.

Tom left his family a legacy of strong work ethic, quirkiness, humor, music, and a love of cats. They will deeply miss his silly songs, dance moves, and favorite sayings, but plan to carry those traditions forward for generations to come. These small details represent the indelible passion Tom felt for his family, career, and life story.

His final weeks were filled with kind words, heartfelt letters, and an abundance of visitors as he pushed through his life's greatest challenge. Tom would not want people to feel sadness, but instead to work hard, find the best in life, and laugh often with those they love.

A celebration of life will be held in his memory July 18, 2026.