Thomas M. Perez Jr.

PEREZ, JR. Thomas M., 70, longtime Plano resident, peacefully passed away on August 1, 2015 at home surrounded by his loving family. Thomas, or “Tom” as he went by, was the son of Thomas Martinez Perez Sr. and Guadalupe Montez Perez. He was the beloved husband of Mary Ann (Garza) Perez for 46 years.

Tom was a U.S. Air force veteran serving during the Vietnam War. He served three years with distinction as Airman First Class during Vietnam, including aiding with fire-fighting, and missile silo testing/launching. Tom received commendations for his dedication and bravery. The discipline and patriotism he learned in the U.S. Air force never left him, as friends and family will attest; he forever remained devoted to both his country and flags. After serving his country honorably, Tom went on to marry his “dream girl,” Mary Ann (Garza) Perez, in McKinney, TX. Tom was the Market and Seafood Manager of Tom Thumb (Simon David) Grocery Store for 43 years; he won numerous customer service awards and employee recognitions (employee of the month and employee of the year) during his life-long career at Tom Thumb. He dedicated his life in helping his customers and community by always servicing with a smile. He always believed and supported the motto, “The customer is always right,” and was always happy to help his fellow co-workers and customers in need.

Besides his beloved wife Mary Ann Perez, he is survived by his loving children, Cynthia Anne Perez of WA and Thomas Christopher Perez of TX. Tommy was a cherished, devoted brother of Obelia Perez, Juanita Reyes, John Perez, Celestino Perez, Manual Perez, Telesfora Young, Carolina Perez, Sylvia Perez, and the late Alvino Perez.

His family will forever cherish the memories of hosting family gatherings, events (weddings, baptisms, communion, baby showers, etc.) and holidays. Tom loved watching NFL football (a lifelong Dallas Cowboys fan), watching western movie classics, participating in the American Legion, and going on family vacations to Disneyland and Hawaii. Thomas truly loved his family and was devoted to his wife and children. He will be deeply missed by those he leaves behind.

A memorial service will take place this Saturday on August 15, 2015 at 10:30am at Ted Dickey Funeral Home, located at 2128 18th Street, Plano, TX. 75074. An internment burial service will then be held at 2:00pm at DFW National Cemetery located at 2000 Mountain Creek Parkway, Dallas, TX 75211 on August 31, 2015, where Thomas’ remains will be kept.