Thomas Michael McPherson

With hearts full of love and gratitude for a life well lived, we announce the passing of Thomas Michael McPherson, age 78, who entered eternal rest on July 20, 2025, at his home in Westerville, Ohio.

Born on September 30, 1946, in Martin's Ferry, Ohio to the late Clarence and Eileen (Coyne) McPherson, Tom was a man of unwavering faith and deep devotion to his family. He grew up in Bridgeport, Ohio, the second oldest of 10 children. After earning his Bachelor of Science in Business Administration and Accounting from Wheeling Jesuit College, he married the love of his life, Arlene (Wolter). Together, they shared more than 56 years of marriage, building a home rooted in love, family, and faith.

Tom's Catholic faith was the cornerstone of his life. He faithfully served the Lord in all he did, and his devotion to God was reflected in his active involvement at St. Elizabeth Catholic Church in Columbus for more than two decades from 1980-2004, followed by his service as a parishioner at St. John Neumann Catholic Church in Sunbury since 2005.

Tom dedicated more than 30 years of his career to the Ohio Department of Transportation, retiring as Assistant Director. His career in public service also included time with the Federal Department of Transportation, relocating him and his family briefly to Springfield, Illinois, and Madison, Wisconsin. But Tom and Arlene always considered Ohio home, and it was in the greater Columbus area that they chose to raise their family.

Tom's greatest joy came from being a husband, father, and grandfather. He was a proud and loving father to Thomas McPherson II, Tara Griffith, Colleen (Aaron) Seres, and Amanda (Sean) Buzenski. His twelve grandchildren-Contessa, Hadley, Tristen, Thomas (TJ), Madelynn, Elijah, Dane, Téa, Collin, Luke Mason, Declan, and Amelia-were the light of his life. He cherished every moment as Pop Pop with them, especially teaching each one how to fish, a favorite hobby of his throughout his lifetime. Pop Pop also enjoyed cooking and made it a special tradition to prepare homemade pizza with each of his grandchildren, creating memories that will be treasured for generations.

Tom found joy in the simple pleasures of life such as fishing, cooking, traveling with Arlene, birdwatching, listening to music, celebrating family traditions, and capturing memories through photography. Proud of his Irish heritage, he especially enjoyed St. Patrick's Day, Coyne family reunions, and his memorable trip to Ireland. Pop Pop faithfully supported all the activities and teams in which his grandchildren participated, cheering them on with pride. Tom was also a devoted Pittsburgh Steelers and Ohio State Buckeyes fan, attending countless games and remaining loyal through every season.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Clarence and Eileen, and three brothers, William (Bill), Richard (Ricky), and Patrick (Pat).

He is survived by his beloved wife Arlene, his children, grandchildren, and six treasured siblings-Hope Larkin, John (Sue) McPherson, Joan (Dan) DiFerio, Diane Pestian, Colleen (Larry) Terpenning and Noreen (Rich) Saxon as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.

He leaves behind a legacy of love, faith, and family that will live on in all who knew him.

Calling Hours will be held from 9:00am until 11:00am on Friday, July 25, 2025, at St. John Neumann Catholic Church, 9633 East OH-37, Sunbury, Ohio. Mass will then follow beginning at 11:00am. A private burial will take place in Resurrection Cemetery at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, the family invites you to consider a donation to the Outreach to the Poor ministry at St. John Neumann Catholic Church which supports both the Good Samaritan Ministry and St. Vincent de Paul Society.

Donate here: https://www.wesharegiving.org/app/giving/WeShare-20001848?tab=home

Snyder Funeral Homes, DeVore Chapel is honored to serve the McPherson family with funeral arrangements. Please share a memory of Tom or a message of condolence with the family at www.snyderfuneralhomes.com