Thomas Edward Baroody

Thomas Edward Baroody, 81, of Lakeland, Florida, passed away on November 25, 2025, after a courageous battle with ALS. Born on November 12, 1944, in Richmond, Virginia, to Edward Thomas and Ruth Baroody, Tom lived a life defined by purpose, generosity, and quiet determination.

A graduate of Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute and the University of Missouri at Columbia, Tom built a distinguished career in the field of civil engineering. After beginning his career with AMAX in New York City, he moved to Lakeland, where he founded TEBCO Associates and later co founded K Technologies, Inc., serving as CEO until his final days. Even at 81, his work ethic remained legendary: he approached each day with the determination, passion, and fervor of a person half his age.

Tom’s love for his work was eclipsed only by his commitment to community. After joining the First United Methodist Church of Lakeland in 1986, he served on numerous committees, including the Building Committee, the Scholarship Committee, and as Chairman to the Church Council. He also lent his time and talents to community initiatives such as Paint Your Heart Out Lakeland and rang bells for the Salvation Army during the holiday season, a role he embraced with both sincerity and spirit.

A proud member of Kiwanis International, Tom served as local President and participated in countless sponsorships and service events, going so far as to earn the most recognized award issued by the organization. His generosity extended to the Big Brother, Big Sister program, club fundraisers, and to various community events—perhaps most recognizably as a “professional” pancake flipper at the annual Pancake Festival!

Tom enjoyed building model ships and railroads, collecting coins, exploring wines, and cheering for the St. Louis Cardinals. He is survived by his loving wife, Jerri, and his two sons, Ted and David Baroody.

He will be remembered for his warmth, dependability, and the steady kindness he offered to everyone he met.

A celebration of life will be held at 10:00 AM on February 7, 2026, at the First United Methodist Church in Lakeland. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the ALS Foundation and Network, PO Box 7082, Woodland Hills, CA 91365.