Thomas Hunt McCarty Sr.

Thomas Hunt McCarty Sr., a man of unwavering generosity, unmatched charisma, and unconditional love, passed away peacefully on Monday, February 3, 2025, at the age of 94 in Glendale, AZ. He left behind a legacy that will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

Tom was the kind of person who never met a stranger, only a new friend to welcome into his ever-growing family. He had a remarkable ability to remember every detail about the people he cared for, making them feel seen, valued, and truly loved. His kindness was limitless, his patience abundant, and his forgiveness absolute. If mistakes were made, he simply let them roll off his back, always choosing grace over judgment, and he never held a grudge. His generosity knew no bounds, if you needed something, he would find a way to provide it for you no matter the circumstances.

A devoted husband, Tom shared a love with his wife, Carol R. McCarty, ever since they married in June of 1982. Their love was deep, enduring, and full of small, meaningful gestures. Even in a crowded room, he always found Carol with his eyes, mouthing a silent “I love you”, or offering a reassuring wink. Their journey together was one of unwavering commitment and companionship, proving that true love never fades away, and only grows stronger with time. Their adventures in life were ones that were full of travel, new experiences, and spending time with loved ones. Their genuine love for each other was the kind of love that everyone around them wanted in their own life, and they were true best friends who supported each other through thick and thin, and in sickness and in health.

As a father and grandfather, Tom was a guiding light. He found joy in crafting intricate wooden tracks for Hot Wheels races, always thinking ahead to create something special for the next visit. He supported his family without hesitation, whether it was helping with finances, standing by them in difficult times, or simply being a steady, comforting presence. He lived with the same caring eyes as his father before him, embodying the kind of kindness and respect that is rare in today’s world. He always made sure everyone was taken care of and ended every conversation with “Take good care of yourself, let me know if you need anything, I love you”. He was as unique as they come, and he made sure everyone around him felt that way too.

Tom’s brilliance showed early in his life. While serving in the United States Army, he was with the Signal Corps, where he achieved the rank of Staff Sargeant in only 18 months. He once scored so highly on an exam that he was accused of cheating, only to prove that his success came from relentless study and preparation. His skills were quickly recognized, and his leadership was affirmed in moments of intense action, including in critical missions in the Korean War where he spent 1951-1953. His remarkable competence under pressure during one mission impressed a Lieutenant so much, that he nominated Tom for promotion on the spot. He was a hero in everyone’s eyes, and a consistent role model to all of those around him.

His professional achievements were as impressive as his character was with SunWest Federal Credit Union and the Mountain Bell Telephone Company. Tom voluntarily dedicated over 47 years to SunWest Federal Credit Union, serving more than 25 years as Chairman of the Board. He led with strength, emotional intelligence, and integrity, always the most respected in the room. Throughout his career with the Mountain Bell Telephone Company, he took on projects that few would dare, like overseeing the construction of telephone lines that reached to the depths of the Grand Canyon, and the construction of the Glen Canyon Dam. An adventurer at heart, he relished the opportunity to ride service cages down canyon walls as Lake Powell took shape, embracing each challenge with enthusiasm. From his early trench digging days as a Lineman from 1949-1951 to managing business office operations and accounts as a District Manager in the 1960s-1970s to becoming a Director of Area Operations who reported directly to the CEO, Tom’s work ethic and leadership left a lasting mark. This was shown when he was named “Boss of the Year” by the Ponderosa National Secretaries Association.

Even in his final days, Tom’s impact was evident. The hospital hallways overflowed with loved ones who came to see him. Nurses, moved by his kindness and energy visited him even after their shifts ended, simply to share in the warmth of his presence one more time. And, true to his nature, he remained filled with love and laughter until the very end, making sure each person in the room knew how much they meant to him and how much he loved them. His final moments of life were spent peacefully, surrounded by the ones he loved.

Tom is welcomed into Heaven by his parents, Wilson H. and Lola A. McCarty, his son, Philip (Andy) McCarty, and his brother, Allan (Bud) McCarty Sr.

Tom is survived by his beloved wife of 42 years, Carol R. McCarty, his son, Thomas (Debra) H. McCarty Jr., and his loving 14 grandchildren, six great-grandchildren, two nieces, and one nephew.

Tom’s services will be held at noon on Thursday, February 27, 2025, at the Chapel of the Chimes Mortuary in Glendale, AZ.

This obituary was lovingly written by his grandson, Thomas H. McCarty III, with the help of his family, in honor of a man whose impact and legacy will never be forgotten.