We come together to celebrate the life and legacy of a beloved man of God, Thomas McCutcheon Sr., who has been called home to the Lord.  Born on the 3rd of January in the year 1967 in New Rochelle, New York, Thomas was a beacon of light to all who knew him. On the 22nd of August 2024, in Comstock Park, Michigan, after a valiant battle with stomach cancer, our dear Thomas was welcomed into the heavenly kingdom.

Thomas was a man of profound faith and conviction, who walked in the footsteps of the Lord.  As it is written, "Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted." (Matthew 5:4). In this spirit, we find solace knowing Thomas rests in the eternal comfort of our Savior.

Thomas was the cherished son of Carl Eugene McCutcheon Sr. and Ethel J. McCutcheon, who, along with his brothers William "Bill" McCutcheon and Carl McCutcheon Jr. (Tammy), mourn his passing yet celebrate the fullness of his life. His dear friend and companion, Vicky Garcia, and his beloved children—Amber, Ashley, Thomas Jr., Autumn, and Alexis—will forever hold his memory in their hearts. His grandchildren, Malachi, Danika, Amani, Ella, Ziggy, Jaxton, Harmony, and Amila, will continue to be guided by his wisdom and love.  He was preceded in death by his maternal and paternal grandparents, and his granddaughter, Heaven.

Educated at Waynesboro High School and Liberty University, where he was a contributing and influential teammate on the LU football team, Thomas dedicated his life to the service of others. He served with distinction at the Kent County Sheriff's Department from August 1993 until his well-earned retirement in September 2021. Thomas then continued to bless the youth of our community as a Behavior Support Specialist at Comstock Park High School from 2022 to 2024. Thomas found his love of coaching while raising his children and his love for coaching continued throughout his life.

Thomas was a man who found joy in the simplicities of life. He was an avid fisherman, finding peace and fellowship on the water. His love for sports was unparalleled, cheering on his favorite teams, the Pittsburgh Steelers and Michigan State University—Go Green!  As a mentor and coach, he guided many young souls with compassion and wisdom, leaving a legacy of strength and kindness.

In our hearts, we know that Thomas's life was a testament to the power of love and community. He was a man who spent his time nurturing the bonds of family, friendship, and the betterment of all around him. His presence was a source of stability and grace that uplifted and inspired.

As we bid farewell to Thomas McCutcheon Sr., let us remember the words of the Apostle Paul: "For to me, to live is Christ, and to die is gain." (Philippians 1:21). Thomas lived his life for Christ, and now he has gained the promise of eternal life. His spirit will continue to guide us, just as the North Star.

We shall not say goodbye to Thomas, for he is not truly gone. His love, his teachings, and his spirit are etched into the very fabric of our lives. He has been a vessel of God's love, a testament to the enduring strength of faith, and a shining example of the good that one man can do in his time on this earth.

Let us carry forward the light that Thomas McCutcheon Sr. has lit in each of us. May we honor his memory by living our lives in service to one another, spreading love and compassion as he so generously did. And in the quiet moments by the water's edge, or cheering in the stands, let us feel his presence and know that he is with us still, smiling down from the glory of Heaven.

To the family, take comfort in the words of our Lord Jesus Christ, and know that your beloved Thomas is now in a place where there is no pain, no sorrow, only the joyous reunion with those who have gone before him. May God bless you and keep you in this time of reflection and remembrance.

And so, with heavy hearts but grateful spirits, we commend Thomas McCutcheon Sr. to the loving arms of our Heavenly Father. Rest well, good and faithful servant, until we meet again.