Thomas Gene Young

In Loving Memory of Thomas Gene Young 03/15/1961 - 12/05/2025
Thomas (Tom) Gene Young, age 64, passed away on December 5, 2025, in San Antonio, Texas. Born on March 15, 1961, in Carnegie, Oklahoma, Tom lived a life marked by dedication to his family, his work, and his many passions.
Tom graduated from John Marshall High School in San Antonio in 1979. In his early years, he worked at Rawhide and Don's gun shops before managing Nagel's Gun Shop. Later, he transitioned into commercial construction and found a long-term professional home with American Interiors, where he worked for 28 years. His work ethic and reliability left a lasting impression on colleagues and clients alike.
A man of many interests and talents, Tom was an avid scuba diver who became a certified dive instructor. He especially cherished diving trips to Bonaire Island, where the underwater world brought him great joy and peace. When not exploring the ocean depths, Tom could often be found in his woodworking shop. There, he crafted intricate gavels, pens, and ashtrays-each piece a testament to his skill and creativity.
Tom's commitment to service extended deeply into his Masonic life. Following in his family's footsteps, he joined the Masonic fraternity in 1982 and became an endowed member of several lodges: Perfect Union Lodge No. 10, Tranquility Lodge No. 2000, Nat M Washer Lodge No. 1270, Rising Star Ranger Lodge No. 429, and Freedom Lodge No. 100. He served as Worshipful Master of Perfect Union Lodge in 1990 and again in 2019 as its 100th Worshipful Master. In 2024, he held the honor of being the 150th Worshipful Master for Rising Star Ranger Lodge.
His leadership within the fraternity was further recognized when he was appointed District Deputy Grand Master for District 39c in 2003–2004. Tom received the Golden Trowel Award-the highest honor bestowed by a lodge-in both 1996 (Perfect Union) and 2022 (Rising Star Ranger), highlighting his enduring impact on the Masonic community.
In addition to his lodge achievements, Tom joined the San Antonio Scottish Rite bodies in 1983 and held numerous positions throughout his tenure, including Knight Commander of the Court of Honor. In 2004, he became a member of the Alzafar Shrine and was elected to its Board of Directors four years later. His leadership culminated in serving as Potentate in 2013. He was the Past President of the San Antonio Chapter No. 98 of Cabiri International and the Past Potentates Association, and served as secretary.
Tom was known for his generosity and warmth. A natural storyteller with a sharp wit and an endless trove of trivia, he brought laughter and insight to every gathering. Over the last 10 years, he had begun wearing funny socks to add humor to his day. He became known for them, and he encouraged others to do the same.
He is lovingly remembered by his wife of over 47 years, Rita M. Young; his father Donald K. Young and stepmother Margaret Young; his mother Margaret L. Young; Uncle George Joy and wife Kathy; Aunt Gay Armstrong; mother-in-law Rita D. Esparza; brother-in-law Luis Esparza and wife Dianne; sister-in-law Luisa Esparza; sister-in-law Norma Araiza and husband Leonard; sister-in-law Gayle Young.
Nieces and nephews: Diana Thomas, Kelly Hagar, Ayde Lopez, Allie Hagar, Rita Thomas, Buddy Thomas, Jimmy Thomas, Lauren Schores, Marisa Molinar, Avery Araiza, Josh Shellbarger, Kyle Hernandez, and wife Ashley. Cousins: Troy Joy, Trent Joy, Lindsey O'Brien, and husband Kyle with their children Ellie and Cooper; Kacey Asher and husband Kelvin with their children Evan, Caden, and Adelyn; Laura Grisez and husband Ben with their children Zed and Abel; Craig Armstrong.
He was preceded in death by his father-in-law, Luis T. Esparza, uncle Kenneth Joy, and brother Michael Young. Tom and Rita did not have children, but they loved their dogs Sonny and DJ very dearly.
Tom's legacy is one of service, craftsmanship, loyalty, and love-a life well-lived that touched many across different walks of life. May his memory bring comfort to those who knew him. A Celebration of Life will be held on January 31, 2026, from 02:00 PM to 04:00 PM at Alzafar Shrine Center Terrace Room 901 N. Loop 1604 West.
His wife Rita would like to thank the Methodist Hospice care team, who helped her provide for Tom's comfort and care when he returned home from the hospital.
Condolences may be sent to: The Young family 8230 Windlake St San Antonio, Tx 78230
In lieu of flowers: Donations can be made in Tom's honor with: Alzafar Shrine Transportation Fund 901 N. Loop 1604 West. San Antonio, Tx 78232 210 496-1625 Or The Daughters of the Nile Foundation (this ladies' organization's mission is to support the Shrine hospital for children)
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