I met Tom 15 years ago at a social event - and then we connected ! Talking about kids, life, education, politics and even business. Tom was always ready to help. He would come to see my kids play baseball if we traveled to Conroe or come to one of my comedy shows  -and every time we had a disagreement about the world order, Tom would say, let’s put it off for a bottle of wine on the porch. Lot of those bottles are now going to go unfinished, my friend. The world has lost a precious one.

I met Tom at Castilian on the 14th floor in ‘81-‘82. I used to have lots of pix from the Castilian years and after but can’t seem to locate them. This is the only pic I could find of Tom from those days. This pic is from a party on Riverside the next year. I used to tease Tom about it. I said, “ Wow Tom, even three girls can’t hold your attention!” He joked back, “No wonder I had trouble getting dates”. I don’t remember it that way, he seemed to have plenty of dates. I have been in touch with Tom off and on over the years, we texted sometimes but haven’t been really close but I’ll always remember him fondly and the fun years we all had on the 14th floor of Castilian at the University of Texas!

My yearly trip to Austin with Rusty, Tom and Tommy. I love this yearly tradition. Hook em.

One of our yearly Longhorn games together. One of my favorite traditions.

I have many fond memories of camping with Tom and Alex through the YMCA Indian Princess program many years ago. The group, specifically founded to build relationships between young girls and their dads, officially ran from K-3 grade. Our small group grew so close that we continued it for a number of additional years. Tom was always there and the walks and campfire discussions were lively and entertaining. He was a wonderful father with a large heart.

I met Tom when I just moved to Houston in 2004. He was my “2AM call” friend for over 21 years. The one I could reach out to at any hour of day or night, and he would always answer, no matter what. When the world felt heavy and I needed to vent, or when something amazing happened and I wanted to share, Tom always answered.
My heart aches knowing I can’t make that call anymore. I will forever remember Tom’s presence, his unwavering support, his incredible grounding ability and the way he made me feel heard and cared for. He had a gift for showing up exactly when you needed him most, and I’m so grateful for the countless moments we shared.
Tom’s friendship was a rare kind of treasure — steady, loyal, and full of heart. Though he’s no longer here to pick up the phone, his love, generosity and kindness will echo in my life forever. Rest easy, my dear friend. You’ll always be with me.

Memories of so many Texas Football games over the past 2 decades. This includes introducing T4 into this tradition.

Memories of so many Texas Football games over the past 2 decades. This was the second to last game, with the traditional VY Steakhouse dinner amongst friends of 45 years.

I am so sorry! Tom was such a great guy! We dated during our Senior year for a bit.  I will never forget that he bought me my first cowboy hat and cowboy belt.  He took me to one of my first Oiler game.  He totally spoiled me and we made memories.  He hosted me at his house when we went to our 20th alumni event.  The perfect gentlemen, and we shared so many stories.  He was my chief attorney when I needed advice and my hubby teases me that I would slip away when we are in Cypress visiting his mom to be with my Montgomery Man.  We differed politically, but he was always a straight arrow.  May God embrace him in His arms and let him know that his friends are grieving.  And may his handprints on our hearts comfort us to know we now have an angel in heaven.

Last time I saw Tom was at our crawfish boil we hosted at our home. He wanted some ideas for a chicken coop, so I gave him the grand tour of our whole setup. He was impressed and later built his own, where he kept six very happy chickens.

I’m so deeply sorry for the loss of this fine, country gentleman. He was a good conversationalist and enjoyed many a deep conversation with him. We will miss our neighbor and friend so very much. Hard to believe when I look at his beautiful land and his animals that he is no longer here.

I am very sorry to hear about Tom's passing.  He always had a smile on his face and was always happy to "be there".   I always enjoyed our conversations as we would rib each other about the Aggies and Longhorns.  He was a beloved member of the Houston Rodeo Cutting Horse Committee, and I will miss hanging out with him during the Show. We will be praying for the family during this difficult time.

I am heartbroken to learn of Tom’s passing. We have lost not only ‘one of the good ones’, but one of the very best.  A man of genuine character and kindness, Tom’s presence brought warmth and laughter to all.  I will always remember his smile and deep, genuine  laugh.  Tom was a true friend and is already deeply missed. Lifting his family and friends in thoughts and prayers.

With sympathy,
Nikki

Tom has been one of my closest friends since we met in 6th grade, 52 years ago.
He is one of the finest men I have ever known and I will miss our lunches and calls very, very much.
God bless, keep, and comfort his Mother and Step-Father.
I'm very thankful for the surety of Tom knowing Jesus as his Lord and Savior and that he is in the light of God's Glory forever now.

OBITUARY

Thomas Jacob Gotliboski, III

31 August, 1962 – 30 November, 2025

Metcalf Funeral Directors

Show your support

Add a Memory

Share Obituary

Get Reminders

Services