Thomas M Maher III

Thomas M. Maher III, affectionately known as Tom, Tommy, or Uncle Tommy, of Escondido, California, passed away on December 6, 2025, at Palomar Hospital due to Keytruda Pneumonitis.
Born in Georgia on February 3, 1954 to Thomas M. Maher Jr. and Marion Maher, Tom was the oldest of five siblings. As the son of a Navy Lieutenant Commander, his family lived in many places: Philadelphia, PA, Norfolk VA, North Kingstown, RI, and Oxnard CA before settling in Escondido, California. He graduated from Escondido High School in 1973. In his younger years, Tom was a proud Boy Scout who developed a lifelong love of the outdoors.
He married the love of his life, Elizabeth, in 1977. Their daughter, Tamarisk, was born in 1979.
For nearly 40 years, Tom proudly served with the North County Transit District (NCTD), beginning as a bus driver and later advancing to dispatcher. He distinguished himself by winning multiple bus roadeos and earning numerous certificates for outstanding service, perfect attendance, and going above and beyond the call of duty.
His quiet heroism and deep sense of duty shone brightest in moments of crisis. Throughout his career and beyond, Tom stepped up without hesitation, saving lives in emergencies, coordinating bus evacuations during disasters in Escondido, and always putting others' safety first. These acts reflected the selfless heart he carried every day.
Tom was known far and wide for his infectious smile and booming laugh. He possessed a sharp mind and was full of knowledge, especially when it came to trivia. He could recall facts and stories that amazed everyone around him. He was a big kid at heart, always ready with a joke, a playful tease, or a helping hand. His favorite phrase, "Don't worry about it," was his gentle way of calming worries and offering reassurance. He would literally give you the shirt off his back, and he was the first person anyone thought to call in a time of need.
An adventurer at heart, Tom cherished his annual ski trips, long road trips with his favorite suitcase in tow, the outdoors, and most of all, time spent with his beloved grandchildren. He was always ready to go, eager for the next journey.
Above all, Tom loved being a father and a grandfather more than anything in the world. He poured his whole heart into both roles with endless devotion, pride, and joy. He felt profoundly honored to support his daughter and to watch his grandchildren grow and chase their dreams. His extraordinary love and guidance as a dad and grandpa will be cherished forever.
Tom was preceded in death by his loving wife of 42 years, Elizabeth Maher (2019); his parents, Thomas M. Maher Jr. and Marion Maher; and his brother, Patrick Maher.
He is survived by his daughter, Tamarisk Hieb (husband Andrew); his cherished grandchildren, Andrew Hieb Jr., Seraphina Hieb, Scarlette Hieb, and Charles Hieb; his stepmother, Joanna Maher; and his sisters, Sister Teresa Maher, Rita Maher-Young, and Peggy Dreher.
A memorial service celebrating Tom's life will be held in Escondido, California, in March 2026. Details to follow.
In the words of John 16:22: "So with you: Now is your time of grief, but I will see you again and you will rejoice, and no one will take away your joy."
Tom's warmth, laughter, and boundless love will live on in the hearts of all who knew him. He will be deeply missed.