Thomas "Tom" Renfro

1936 - 2024

Thomas "Tom" Renfro

March 2, 1936 - May 5, 2024

Fort Worth, Texas - Thomas "Tom" Renfro, 88, passed away on Sunday, May 5, 2024, surrounded by his loving wife, Jan, and four children. His earthly body now rests after courageously battling Parkinson's Disease for many years.

Tom was born on March 2, 1936, (the Centennial year of Texas Independence Day) in Fort Worth, to Judge Thomas J. and Betty Renfro. He graduated from Paschal High School in 1954 before moving to Austin to attend college. He graduated from both University of Texas and UT School of Law.

After earning his law degree in 1963, Tom returned to his hometown to practice law. He was proud to be a trial lawyer, where he developed a reputation as a tough-but-fair-litigator and a go-to medical malpractice defense attorney during his 50+ years career in Fort Worth. Former partner and fellow lawyer Doug Hudman described Tom as his favorite lawyer of all time, a truly good friend and also the nicest lawyer he ever knew.

An avid sports fan, Tom especially enjoyed watching soccer games played by family members, college teams and professional athletes. He also rooted for the Rangers, Longhorns and Horned Frogs (as long as TCU wasn't playing UT!). He loved watching his kids, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren compete in sports, and always wanted to hear game updates when he couldn't attend in person.

Tom's favorite place was Crested Butte, Colorado, where he took many trips with his wife and partner of 48 years, Jan. Skiing in winters, hiking and fly-fishing in summers, and frequenting the delicious eateries were some of his favorite Crested Butte activities.

Tom is survived by his wife, Jan; children, Kim Renfro (Bruce Gilbert), Ellen Tabor, Blair (Rebecca) Renfro, and Byron Renfro; grandchildren, Brad West, Braxton Renfro, Ashley Tabor Lindsay Tabor, Lexie Gillaspie, Lilly Renfro, Reece West, Holden Renfro, Wyatt Renfro and Kell Renfro; nine great-grandchildren; nephew, Jon Rickenbacher (Joyce); nieces, Maurie Marcil, Dawn McMahan and Leah Vera; and brother-in-law, Dr. Durwood Neal (Katie).

Tom was preceded in death by his parents; sister, Sheila Taylor Wells; and brother-in-law, H.G. Wells (lawyer, not author).

He will be greatly missed by a family who loved him dearly. A celebration of life will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be sent to Parkinson's Foundation.