Tom "Pooch" Paciello

Thomas Anthony “Pooch” Paciello passed away peacefully on January 20, 2026, in Plano, Texas. Born in Albuquerque, New Mexico on May 26, 1947, he grew up in Mineral Wells, Texas and graduated from Mineral Wells High School. He then went on to attend the University of North Texas, where he was a member of the Geezle fraternity and graduated with his bachelor’s degree.

He was the most phenomenal father, brother, uncle, friend, and Grandpa humanly imaginable, and he brought joy into the lives of everyone he came across. He was the kindest and most thoughtful person, and he never met a stranger. His goal each day was to try and make at least one person’s day better, which was proven by the many acts of kindness that he was known for.

He enjoyed hunting, fishing, computer gaming, cooking, spoiling his chihuahua Daisy, and buying gadgets of all kinds and giving them to everyone—both friends and strangers alike. His favorite pastime, however, was spending time with his 4-month-old grandson, who he lovingly referred to as “Tick.”

He is survived by his daughter, Delani Minnig, who he loved more than anything in the world, as well as his grandson and namesake, Brooks Thomas Minnig; sister, Toni Long; and nieces, Nicole Swanstrom and Allison Griffin. He is preceded in death by his parents, Betty and Tony Paciello; sister, Gwynne Paciello; and nephew, Blake Long. He was loved deeply by all who had the privilege of knowing him and will be missed beyond measure. His family and friends are comforted in knowing the world was made a better place by him simply having lived in it.

A Celebration of Life will be held in his honor on Saturday, February 7th at 1 p.m. at Ted Dickey Funeral Home in Plano, Texas. All who knew and loved him are welcome to attend.