It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Thomas Joseph McGarvey, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and brother. He passed away peacefully at home on Sunday, July 5, 2026, at the age of 98.
Thomas was predeceased by his beloved wife, Philomena, and daughter, Catherine (John). He was a loving father to Margaret, Susan, and Pauline (Massimo), a proud grandfather to Olivia (William), Justin (Gwendolyn), Harrison, Gillian, Oliver, and Ethan, and a great-grandfather to Sophie Clara.
Thomas was a devout Catholic who knelt every morning and evening to pray the Rosary. He walked faithfully in the steps of Christ, living a life that reflected humility, love, forgiveness, and grace.
Thomas was born on January 7, 1928, in Glasgow, Scotland, but lived most of his childhood in the wilds of scenic Glassah, Donegal, Ireland. He was the eldest of six children. His siblings have all predeceased him.
At age 18, Thomas joined the British Army. He was stationed in Egypt, Libya, Malta, and served in British Palestine. After serving as a police officer in Glasgow, he emigrated to Canada in the early 1950s. Thomas continued his passion for public service by joining the Metropolitan Toronto Police Force in 1954. Serving as a First-Class Constable, he dedicated his career to upholding justice in Toronto, while consistently demonstrating unwavering integrity, fairness, and empathy. During his tenure with the Force, Thomas hosted Crime Watch—a local television program dedicated to highlighting community members and providing safety and crime-prevention advice to his audience. After faithfully serving the Metropolitan Toronto Police Force for over 39 years, Thomas retired in 1993 at the age of 65.
A man of simple pleasures, Thomas enjoyed reading, playing dominoes, long road trips with his family, staying abreast of current affairs, gardening, and sand-and-sea vacations.
His daughters will remember Thomas as a gentle, patient, and devoted father. He encouraged his daughters to practice their faith, pursue their education, work hard, travel the world, and take risks. Thomas was a feminist ahead of his time.
The family extends special thanks to Dr Shamshushin, nurse Jennifer Finn and all his PSWs for their kindness, compassion, and dedicated care over the past year.
Thomas will be forever remembered, forever loved.
Funeral Mass will be held at Holy Family Roman Catholic Church, 60 Allan Drive, Bolton on Tuesday morning, July 14 at 11 o’clock. Interment Queen of Heaven Cemetery, Woodbridge.
Condolences for the family may be offered at www.EganFuneralHome.com
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