Thomas Lee McTaggart

Thomas Lee McTaggart "Tom", age 79 of Huber Heights, passed away suddenly at home Sunday, July 12, 2026. He was born September 11, 1946 in Shelby, Ohio the son of William and Ruth McTaggart.

He is preceded in death by his father, William C. McTaggart Jr.; mother, Ruth V. McTaggart; brother, William McTaggart III; and sister, Penelope Christman.

Tom is survived by his beloved wife, Donna McTaggart; two sons, Shawn (Amanda) McTaggart, Ryan McTaggart; eight grandchildren, Hunter, Jacob, Elliot, Tommy, James, Victoria, Dominic, Isaac; brothers-in-law, Douglas (Pam) Adams and Joel Christman. He is also survived by nephews, nieces, friends, and a very special apricot miniature poodle, Poppy

He was a "Military Brat" and grew up in Germany, Turkey, and Panama along with numerous places in the United States. In high school, he started playing drums and was part of the "Laughing Kind" (the longest-lasting garage band of San Antonio). At age 21, he was drafted into the United States Army and served in Vietnam earning many medals including the Bronze Star, Distinguished Flying Cross, The Soldiers Medal, The Air Medal, and The Combat Infantry Badge amongst many others.

Tom settled in Dayton, Ohio after the war to attend Wright State University studying Mathematics. Upon the university steps he ran into longtime childhood friend of the family, Donna Adams. They were later married on February 16, 1974, and together they raised two sons, Shawn and Ryan in Huber Heights.

His career consisted of Dental Lab Sales and later became a Financial Advisor. Tom and Donna shared a love of soccer and volunteered in their community with Huber Heights Soccer and the Warrior Soccer Club. Tom served as a coach with these clubs and Bethel High School. He was very proud to earn a "C" license from FIFA. Tom was also a jogging enthusiast who ran the Columbus Marathon seven times in his forties after a life-changing heart attack (attributed to Agent Orange exposure). He continued his fitness into his older years with swimming and walking Poppy around the neighborhood.

Tom spent his life as a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. He was remarkable person and mentor to all; admired by anyone that had the privilege to know him for his perseverance, kindness, and selflessness. Tom will be missed.

If desired, memorial contributions may be made online to The Dayton Food Bank at https://thefoodbankdayton.org/

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