Thomas R MacDougall

In Loving Memory of Thomas Russell MacDougall

A Devoted Husband, Father, and Friend

With hearts full of sorrow and gratitude, we announce the passing of Thomas Russell MacDougall, who died peacefully on December 6th, 2025, surrounded by his loving family.

Beloved husband and cherished partner to Brenda MacDougall (formerly Smith); dearest father to Colleen (Jeff), Terrence (Nicole), Caroline (Kyle), Daniel (Jacquelyn), and Meghan (Nigel) and grandfather to Kaitlyn, Alec, Paige, Ian, Malcolm, Miles, Graham, Conor, Thomas, Katherine, Cameron, and Dylan. Great grandfather to Aubrey and Kayleigh.

Tom's journey began in 1939 in Detroit's East side, where he was born as one of six sons to Dan and Loretta. Among the support and love of his brothers, Daniel, Ronald, James, Robert, and John, Tom found lifelong friendship, laughter, and unwavering support. A true brotherhood that helped shape his life.

From a young age at St. Catherine's School in Detroit, Tom said his life was touched by serendipity when he glimpsed his future wife and great love of his life, Brenda, across the playground. While they didn't officially meet until much later, their love story was one of over 60 extraordinary years, united in marriage in July 1966. Tom and Brenda's partnership was forged in faith and devotion, a bond that carried them through decades of raising five children in Grosse Pointe, Michigan. Together, they built a home filled with learning, laughter, and support. Tom served as the family anchor, guiding his children and supporting every ambition.

Tom's life was marked by courage and commitment. Earning a football scholarship to the University of Buffalo, where he and fellow teammates would become lifelong friends and eventually be honored for their commitment to integrity and moral courage. After completing the ROTC Program, Tom answered a higher calling, joining the United States Air Force to become a pilot. Flying two tours in Vietnam, his valor earned him the Silver Star, six Distinguished Flying Crosses, the Bronze Star, and two Purple Hearts, each a testament to his bravery and selfless service.

Following his honorable discharge resulting from a significant combat incident, he attended the Detroit College of Law to earn his legal degree and begin his career in law. His final years at Embry Riddle Aeronautical University in Florida ended his long professional journey, where he and Brenda embraced retirement with a sense of adventure. Together, they traveled the world, learning about history and culture, while creating lasting memories.

Tom's legacy lives on in his 12 grandchildren and 2 great grandchildren, each a reflection of his core values of honesty and generosity.

The MacDougall family invites all who knew him to celebrate a life well lived, filled with faith, courage, and love. In honoring him, may we carry forward his legacy, cherishing the lessons he taught and the values he embodied.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly request donations to be made to:

Halifax Health Hospice- 3800 Woodbriar Trail, Port Orange, FL 32129 Attention: Fund Development- 386-332-4702