Thomas L. McCarthy

With heavy hearts we announce the loss of our brother, Tom McCarthy, also known as Driver Tom, to the many people who knew him in the Elgin/Chicago area. Tom passed away peacefully at home on July 19, 2024 of natural causes. He was born on August 30, 1959 to the late Harry and Theresa (nee Dixon) McCarthy. 

In 1978 Tom graduated from Quincy High School in Quincy, IL and went on to graduate from Western Illinois University in 1982. Tom eventually settled down in Elgin, IL where he was a beloved resident for several decades. 

Tom’s clients were always #1 to him. He was loyal to every one of them and loved helping them get to wherever they needed. So many of his customers have mentioned how they could always rely on him, day or night. He did countless Airport runs and was always on the go. He never met a stranger. He had an outgoing, colorful and gregarious personality and his positive energy filled every room. He was a proud Irish guy and many have spotted him donned in green with his shamrocks and Irish gear toting a box of Lucky Charms! Tom’s presence was the life of the party. Tom was very responsible, never drank, and was an excellent driver. 

He was a unique and fun soul. He had great marketing techniques which included his popular, and questionable, T-shirts with catch and memorable slogans. One of his first custom t-shirt designs had the slogan “Next to Mom, You Can Trust Driver Tom”. His Mom enjoyed this, but not all of his designs were approved by his Mother! Tom was not known to be politically correct, however his unique and energetic personality, along with his amazing personal service, will never be surpassed in that business. He was an entertainer and always kept his customers laughing.

Tom is survived by his sisters, Susan McCarthy of Seattle WA, Carol Gerzseyne of Whidbey Island, WA, Mary (Kent) Cramm of Mendon, IL, and Maureen (Henri) Broussalian of Indialantic, FL; nephews, Ryan Richards of Bend, OR, Adam Glenn of Issaquah, WA, Ross (Keri) Cramm of Millstadt, IL, Cole Cramm of Quincy, IL, and Nicolas and Max Broussalian of FL; Niece, Kelly (Ian) Dunn of Seattle, WA; and his great niece and nephew, Olivia and Liam Cramm of Millstadt, IL. 

A Celebration of Tom's life will be held on Tuesday, September 3, 2024 from 4:30 PM to 7 PM at Nick's Pizza & Pub, 990 S. Randall Rd., Elgin, IL.