Thomas "Tom" Robert Fanning Jr.

Born on July 26, 1961, in Brooklyn, New York, Tom was the son of the late Thomas Robert Sr. and Maureen Ann (Kennedy) Fanning.

A member of Phos Community Church, Tom found his greatest joy in being “Pop” to his fifteen (and counting) grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife, Cindy, and his brothers, Timothy and Robert Fanning. He is survived by his wife, Sherry; his children, Thomas N. Fanning (Rachel), Patrick Fanning (Elizabeth), Sam Fanning, Jessica Ballesteros (Marco), Joshua Parker (Kaitlin), and Matthew Parker (Shae); grandchildren, Lilly, Ariana, Norah, Oliver, Greyson, Addie Mae, Gabriela, Ana Grace, Samuel, Maddox, Jack, Olivia, Kyra, Van, and Blaise; his brother, Michael Fanning (Christina); and a host of extended family and friends who loved him dearly.

Tom ran his race well, faithfully serving Jesus and steadfastly loving his family. When asked what he wanted to be when he grew up, he always said, “I want to be a dad.” That is the legacy he leaves behind.

Through his professional work, his service in the church, and his leadership at home, Pop lived to serve others, with his time, his resources, and his many hands-on skills. He was everyone’s first call when something was broken and the first to arrive when help was needed. Tom was a faithful husband, a devoted father and grandfather, and a loyal friend.

A celebration of Tom’s life will be held on Saturday, November 15, 2025. Visitation will be at 10:00 a.m., and the service will start at 11:00 a.m. at Phos Community Church, 4200 Centerfield Drive, Crestwood, Kentucky 40014. Lunch and fellowship will follow.

“And I heard a voice from heaven saying, ‘Write this: Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord from now on.’

‘Blessed indeed,’ says the Spirit, ‘that they may rest from their labors, for their deeds follow them.’”

— Revelation 14:13

In lieu of flowers, gifts in Tom’s memory may be made at the link below to support medical care and treatment for his granddaughter, Norah.